Temperatures got into the mid to upper 80s again yesterday, but it was a record-setter at the National Weather Service in Buffalo...  

 

The Queen City tied it's previous record of 91-degrees set in 2006.  Forecaster Kirk Apffel with the National Weather Service in Buffalo says it was also another day of well-above normal temperatures in Chautauqua County.  Apfell adds this is definitely not normal for May, which may end up being a near-record month.

 

 

While we won't know until all the figures are in, Apffel says we are in the running for warmest May on record.  Meanwhile, forecasters are keeping an eye on Alberto.  Apffel says showers and thunderstorms began moving into the area overnight and, will be around through Friday.  Most of Western New York, including Chautauqua County, is under a marginal risk for severe weather on Thursday.  That from the National Storm Prediction Center.  

 

 

There are more and more paddle craft using the waterways in Chautauqua County...  

 

An overturned kayak led to the rescue of two Sherman women from Chautauqua Lake Tuesday... and, illustrates the need to think safety.  Chautauqua County Sheriff Joe Gerace says it's important that boaters and paddle craft users alike have life jackets with them at all times and use them.

 

Gerace says there are many different types of life jackets available, including inflatables that are more comfortable.  He says boaters and paddlers should also be aware that the water is still cold and, he adds that can "sap" your strength.  The Lake Erie water temperature is still hovering around 50-degrees.  Something to keep in mind when going out in your boat or kayak.

 

 

A U-S Senate committee has approved legislation that provides support for a full evaluation of the excessive run-off that causes recurring Algal Blooms in Chautauqua Lake...  

 

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand says the proposed feasibility study is part of the "America's Water Infrastructure Act of 2018..." which has been approved by the Environment and Public Works Committee.  Gillibrand says the measure, which is also supported by New York's senior Senator, Charles Schumer, would be carried out by the Army Corps of Engineers.  In addition, Gillibrand says the Army Corps would also be able to study flood risk management measures, and address the accelerated erosion along the lake's tributary streambanks.  The measure now moves onto the full Senate for a vote.

 

 

A young, Red Oak Tree found a new home in Roseland Park Wednesday afternoon as the City of Jamestown Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department celebrated community 'Arbor Day'...

 

City Council President Marie Carrubba issued an official proclamation on behalf of Mayor Sam Teresi, for earning national recognition as a Tree City USA Community by the Arbor Day Foundation for the 37th consecutive year for the city's effective efforts in urban forestry. Additionally, Arborist Dan Stone took time to wish mothers in attendance, including the four women in his life, a belated happy Mother's Day with his annual "Arbor Day Rhyme". He presented them with ceremonial shovels during the planting of the Red Oak in the park. 

 

 

Chautauqua County is preparing for a tough tick season...  

 

The county's Department of Health and Human Services reports that tick populations are growing along with the percentage of ticks infected with the bacteria that causes Lyme Disease. With that, Director of Environmental Health Services Mark Stow says while not all ticks cause disease, humans can reduce their risk of infection by remaining "vigilant" by wearing light-colored clothing, enclosed shoes, longs pants and keeping long hair tied back. 

 

Stow says people should also do a final full-body check for ticks at the end of the day on themselves, children and pets.  He also recommends using insect repellent that contains DEET or lemon of eucalyptus to anyone enjoying outdoor activities.  If a tick is found on the body, Stow says to remove it immediately with fine-point tweezers where it enters the skin.  For more information, visit their website at CO.chautauqua.NY.US. 

 

 

Ticket sales have been brisk for the several headline shows that make up this coming August's Lucille Ball Comedy Festival and, one show is already a sell-out...  

 

That from National Comedy Center Executive Director Journey Gunderson, who says the Lily Tomlin show at the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts on Saturday night, August 4, is completely sold out.  Gunderson adds another show with original cast members of Saturday Night Live the following night is nearly a sell-out.

 

Gunderson says shows will also include "friends" of Amy Schumer and, begin at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m..  She says the SNL cast program includes Lorraine Newman, Dan Ackroyd, and Garrett Morris; along with one of the original writers.  Gunderson adds there is also a new show scheduled that headlines Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz's daughter, Lucie Arnaz.  There is also a program with TV comedic actress Fran Descher.  For more information, call the Comedy Center at 484-0800 or go online to Nationalcomedycenter.org.

 

 

Gas prices in the Jamestown area touched the three-dollar mark this week at $2.99 per gallon...  

 

That from the AAA's weekly price report, which says prices in the mid-Atlantic and Northeast region are as much as a nickel more expensive for a gallon of regular, unleaded fuel on the week.  Following the Memorial Day weekend, the national gas price average has held steady for five days at $2.97, a sign that prices may begin to taper off heading into June.