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WJTN News Headlines for Wed., Nov. 10, 2021

Man in stable condition following stabbing incident in Jamestown...
A 40 year-old man who suffered a stab wound at a home on Jamestown's northside is in stable condition at an Erie, Pennsylvania hospital.  City Police Captain Bob Samuelson confirms the incident took place in the 600-block of Prendergast Avenue shortly before 5 a.m.  Samuelson says the man was initially taken to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital before being transferred to UPMC Hamot in Erie.  He adds the suspect remains at large... and, anyone with information on the incident is asked to call JPD at 483-7537... or their tips line at 483-8477.


Ripley firefighters called back to rekindle of Tuesday afternoon house fire...
Ripley firefighters were called back to a rekindle of a house fire early this morning that destroyed what was left standing from Tuesday afternoon's fire.  Fire crews were called back to the scene at 6277 Barnes Rd. just after 4 a.m., and, had the flames out in short order.  Chautauqua County Fire Dispatchers say Ripley firefighters were initially called to the about 4:15 p.m. Tuesday... and, found the structure was "fully-engulfed" in flames.  They initially called in Westfield for mutual aid... and, later South Ripley and Sherman.  The county's EMS, and Fire Coordinators also responded.  The occupants reportedly got out safely.  The cause remains under investigation.


Jamestown to take part in "Taps Across Chautauqua" on Veteran's Day...
What started last year as a way to give band students 'an authentic music making experience during COVID' is expanding this year.  Instrumental players of all sorts will do solo performances of Taps on Veterans Day.  Band Director Marc Lentsch at Persell Middle School helped start the effort in the Jamestown schools.  Lentsch says the students learn Taps either in class, or private lesson.  Then at 11 a.m. on the 11th of November, they step outside and play.  He says it's an ideal way to connect what students learn in school directly to the community.  Lentsch says they also learn the importance of Veteran's Day, and how it came about.  Band members from the Jamestown schools will participate again this year... along with those from Southwestern, Cassadaga Valley, Brocton, and Chautauqua Lake.  Music students at SUNY Fredonia will be playing along this year, as well. 


Borrello saddened by decision to close more prisons next year in NYS...
The region's State Senator says he's sad to see New York state's decision to close six more prisons in March of next year.  Sunset Bay Republican George Borrello spoke about the decision Tuesday.  Borrello says Governor Kathy Hochul is "following the path" of former Governor Andrew Cuomo.  He says yes... the state's prison population has been declining... but, adds it's not due to less crime.  Borrello says there's been a "huge spike" in crime across the state in the wake of bail reform, which is allowing more criminals to be released onto the streets.  He says bail reform has also led to people charged with crimes not showing up for court dates.  The six facilities slated for closure include... the Southport Correctional Facility, Ogdensburg Correctional Facility, Rochester Correctional Facility, Moriah Shock Incarceration Correctional Facility, Downstate Correctional Facility and Willard Drug Treatment Campus.


Hochul says NYS is prepared to give "kid-sized" COVID-19 vaccinations...
New York state is prepared for the initial wave of 5 to 11 year-old children expected to receive the "kid-sized" COVID-19 vaccine now that approval has been given for emergency use.  Governor Kathy Hochul made the announcement during an appearance at the Mt. Vernon Neighborhood Health Center in Westchester County Tuesday afternoon.  Hochul adds that 75% of all eligible New Yorkers have now had at least one dose of the vaccine... and, she says they'll now focus on where place where the numbers remain low.  Several children were on hand at the Mt. Vernon center to get a vaccine... and, $50 cash afterwards.  They'll also get another $50 when they get the second shot.  Hochul adds there's more: children who get vaccinated will be entered into a contest to win a free college education from either a State University... or City of New York school. 


Bemus Point SD hosting "Drive a Bus" day...
If you've ever wondered what it's like to drive a bus... you can give it a try today from 4 to 6 p.m. at Maple Grove Junior/Senior High School.  The district's Transportation Supervisor, Dwayne Dustin issues the invitation, saying it will give you a chance to get behind the wheel, and see if you would like to try it.  The school is located at the top of Dutch Hollow Road in Ellery.  You must be 21 years of age... and have a valid driver's license.  Dustin adds it's always a little intimidating to get behind the wheel for the first time.  He says those who haven't driven a bus before, but, have driven larger vehicles in the past usually get the hang of it shortly.  Student safety and traffic control are included in the training.  The situation at Bemus Point is similar to districts around the country... all with a great need for more drivers and substitutes.  


First Harmony Express Barbershop concert to be held this Saturday...
The Harmony Express Barbershop Chorus is set come out of its 'pandemic hibernation,' and present a show this weekend.  Chorus President George Jarrell says they'll perform in the Fellowship Room at First Presbyterian Church on Saturday, Nov. 13, at 7 p.m.  Jarrell says this year's show theme is "Good Old Songs from the Barbershop."  He says the chorus has not performed for two years but Jarrell says the number of members has remained steady at around two dozen singers.  For their first concert, they'll be doing a lot of traditional barbershop tunes.  Tickets are $10 pre-sale... or by calling the barbershop hotline at 789-5248 or email info@harmonyexpress.com.  The price is $15 at the door.  Masks will be required.