Community Spotlight
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Community Spotlight | Local Public Affairs Radio Program

By Terry Frank

The Community Spotlight Local Public Affairs Program airs on all six of the Media One Radio Group radio stations. The Chautauqua County Executive appears the first week of each month and City of Jamestown Mayor appears the second week of each month. The other weeks of the month feature a variety of community leaders and special guests. The program airs on the following stations at the following times: WJTN - Saturday at 8:45 A.M. | WWSE - Sunday at 7:00 A.M. | WHUG & WKSN - Sunday at 6:30 A.M. | WQFX - Sunday at 5:30 A.M. | WKZA - Sunday at 6:00 A.M..

Community Spotlight for Nov. 29- Dec. 1, 2019

Noel Blackhall joins Girl Scouts of Western New York Vice President of Marketing and GSWNY Volunteer Joanne Nelson to discuss volunteerism, their roles and how you can get involved. With several different roles from Troop Leader to Service Projects, volunteers male and female are welcomed to the organization. Girl Scouts "unleashes the power of the G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker, Leader)TM in every girl and shows why Girl Scouts is the best leadership development experience for girls in the world—one that is designed with, by, and for girls." For more information, please visit GWSNY.org.

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Community Spotlight for Nov. 29- Dec. 1, 2019

Girl Scouts of Western New York

December 2nd, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 15:22

Noel Blackhall joins Girl Scouts of Western New York Vice President of Marketing and GSWNY Volunteer Joanne Nelson to discuss volunteerism, their roles and how you can get involved. With several different roles from Troop Leader to Service Projects, volunteers male and female are welcomed to the organization. Girl Scouts "unleashes the power of the G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker, Leader)TM in every girl and shows why Girl Scouts is the best leadership development experience for girls in the world—one that is designed with, by, and for girls." For more information, please visit GWSNY.org.

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Community Spotlight for Nov. 24-Dec.1, 2019

Meals on Wheels Exec. Director Barrie Yochum

November 24th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

Meals on Wheels of the Jamestown Area is celebrating it's 50th anniversary this year, and has served more than 4-million meals to local seniors and other shut-ins in the region. Our Terry Frank talks with MOW Director Barrie Yochum about the origins of the program, which began in 1969, and serve three people on it's first day. The program now feeds several hundred in the county. Yochum says they continue to receive their meals from UPMC Chautauqua Hospital from it's facility at Jones Hill. Yochum says some people, who are income eligible, receive free meals, while others have to pay a modest fee for the meals. Yochum says, in addition to contacting them about receiving meals, you can also contact the Chautauqua County Office for the Aging through their NY Connects telephone service.

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Community Spotlight for Nov. 17-24, 2019

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi

November 17th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:45

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi talks with our Terry Frank this week, and gives his impressions of an Election Night he was not part of for the first time in 20 years. He congratulates the winners, and notes that whoever winds up with the majority on City Council, they will have to work together to meet the city's challenges. He talks about the budget process, which resumes on Monday night with a public hearing on the 36.6-million dollar spending plan at 6 p.m. at City Hall. The budget will likely include an additional 150,000-dollars in savings on the city's prescription drug plan. We also discuss the city's Christmas Tree being cut down, and put up on Tracy Plaza for the holiday season.

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Community Spotlight for Nov. 11-18, 2019

Chautauqua County Executive George Borello

November 11th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:40

This week, our Terry Frank talks with County Executive and new State Senator-elect George Borrello to talk both county and state issues. We discuss election night last Tuesday, and the fact he's moving towards being sworn-in and taking his new seat in the next two to three-weeks. Borrello says he's looking forward to it, and says one of the first orders of business will be working with other lawmakers to try and get rid of some of the package of criminal justice reforms approved by the state legislature this year. We also discuss news of Athenex losing 34.8-million dollars in the third-quarter of the year. However... he says the bio-pharmacutical company is on schedule to have it's new facility in the town of Dunkirk up and running by the middle of 2020. We also discuss a possible 3 to 4-billion dollar shortfall in the state's current budget, going into the next fiscal year due to issues regarding Medicaid.

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Community Spotlight for Nov. 1-3, 2019

Owen Toale -- Male Breast Cancer Survivor

November 4th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 12:55

This week's program includes an extended presentation of Noel Blackhall's weekly feature -- "Insights with Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center". Noel speaks with Owen Toale, a male breast cancer survivor, who dives into the fight for his life. Owen lives in Medina, New York with his wife and keeps his spirits high with the support of his family and a few rounds of golf when he can. You can read more about Owen's story here -- https://www.roswellpark.org/cancertalk/201910/breast-cancer-men-owens-story

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Community Spotlight for Oct. 27-Nov. 3, 2019

Chautauqua County Executive, and State Senate candidate George Borello

October 28th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:57

This week, our Terry Frank speaks with the Republican candidate for the 57th State Senate District, Chautauqua Co. Executive George Borrello. Borrello says he wants to keep the seat in GOP hands to keep some kind of firewall between the NYC and Upstate regions. He says there has been a rash of "radical left" legislative items approved since the Democrats have taken the majority in the state legislature's upper chamber. He says he wants to see policy reversals on matters such as the Farmworker's Fair Labor Act, the SAFE Act, and the Women's Health Care Act that allows for abortions up to birth. He says while Austin Morgan says he will bring the western Southern Tier's voice to the majority table in Albany, it will still be drowned out by downstate liberal Democrats.

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Community Spotlight for Oct. 20-27, 2019

Democratic State Senate Candidate Austin Morgan

October 20th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:57

This week, our Terry Frank talks with 57th State Senate candidate Austin Morgan of Freedom, NY, who is a Democrat. Morgan says he is the blue-collar, middle class candidate in the race... having grown up in a family that "had to count pennies." He says it's important to have someone "at the table" when budget-time comes around because he would be in the majority in the Senate. He says he supports changes to improve the Farmworkers Fair Labor Act, and other measures that have hurt the western Southern Tier. Morgan says that, while Republican George Borrello may have more "government experience" that doesn't help when you're in the minority. Morgan is a recent graduate of Cornell University who says it's time to get rid of the "business executives and career politicans in Albany. He's also been endorsed by the Working Families Party in his run for the Senate.

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Community Spotlight for Oct. 13-20, 2019

Republican Jamestown Mayoral candidate David Wilfong

October 13th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:37

We resume our election previews this week with our third and final program on the candidates running for Jamestown city mayor. Republican David Wilfong entered the race this past Spring, after current Mayor Sam Teresi decided against running for another term. Wilfong says he thought about running after he had retired from his current job managing a cleaning and maintenance firm out of Olean, NY. Wilfong says he wants to make Jamestown more "business-friendly," noting that it has not been. He feels the city needs more "shovel-ready" sites for businesses that want to expand, or build new, like Naco Trucking. That firm, along with it's parent company, the Stannard Group, is moving to the Mason Industrial Park in the town of Ellicott because it has the space available. Wilfong believes it's time to tear down what's left of the old, abandoned and outdated industrial buildings in the city. He believes it's the best way to help grow the local tax base. He adds that he's also the only person experienced in working on a budget as a county legislator, and hold down taxes. Wilfong is also endorsed by the Conservative Party in his run for mayor.

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Community Spotlight for Oct. 6-13, 2019

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi

October 6th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:25

We had hoped to have Jamestown Mayoral candidate David Wilfong on this week, but, a family emergency arose, and we had a lengthy interview with current Mayor Sam Teresi -- portions of which we have put together for a program. Our Terry Frank and former WJTN Reporter Jason Sample from WRFA-FM ask the questions regarding City Council approval of a new, three-year agreement with 58 city parks and public works employees represented by AFSCME, and, a 12.65-million dollar bonding measure that's part of Teresi's proposed "Smart City Capital Investment" program. Teresi notes that the equipment, purchases, and facility upgrades will be acted on separately, though.

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Community Spotlight for Sept. 29-Oct. 5, 2019

Libertarian Jamestown Mayoral candidate Andrew Liuzzo

September 29th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

Our Terry Frank talks this week with Libertarian Jamestown Mayoral Candidate Andrew Liuzzo, who says his main reason for running is because "I care" about the city he loves, and providing more opportunities for the young people who live here. Liuzzo says he believes this starts with the people living here, and having to be better neighbors to each others. Liuzzo says there are homegrown businesses that are still here, and the potential is there for more of this. He says allowing for construction of pre-fabricated homes may be a way to get the hundreds of empty lots in the city refilled with residences. He has been a business owner, and manager, and worked in occupational rehabilitation services for 18 years before he retired. He's currently an at-large city councilman who is in his first term. Liuzzo announced last February he was running for the Republican nomination, but, was defeated by nominee David Wilfong last June.

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Community Spotlight for Sept. 23-30, 2019

Jamestown Democratic Mayoral Candidate Eddie Sundquist

September 23rd, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:35

This week, our Terry Frank begins previewing the upcoming elections in Jamestown and Chautauqua County with Democratic Mayoral Candidate Eddie Sundquist. Sundquist is a Jamestown native, who returned a few years ago to begin practicing law at the firm of Lewis and Lewis. Sundquist says he wants to be elected to move the city forward to what he calls a "21st Century" community. He says that involves using technology to attract new business, industry, and residents. Sundquist says, unlike his opponents, he wants to see more reuse of old vacant commercial and industrial buildings, and he believes that it's best to keep the city under control of local residents, as opposed to a state Control Board. Sundquist says he is concerned that the city will make a decision on the direction it will go before the end of current Mayor Sam Teresi's term, and the next mayor will have to "live with that."

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WJTN News Headlines for Sept. 15-22, 2019

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi

September 15th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

Our Terry Frank talks with Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi this week with a reflection back on the "9/11" terrorist attacks in New York City, Washington, D.C., and in Pennsylvania. Teresi was finishing up his second-year in office, and recalls the day vividly, and remembers being taken to the emergency command center in the basement of city hall until it was known what was taking place. We also discuss his proposed 13-million dollar "Smart City Capital Improvement" program, which he says is "affordable" for the city, and includes a number of purchases of equipment that are needed for the Fire and Public Works Departments. It also includes a 6.9-million dollar Central Fleet Maintenance Building. The city would borrow about 9.4-million for the program. We also discuss the first-phase being underway in the 325,000 dollar Riverwalk Illumination Project that would include decorative lighting in the downtown area at night.

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Community Spotlight for Sept. 8-15, 2019

Chautauqua County Executive George Borello

September 8th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

Our Terry Frank talks this week with Chautauqua County Executive George Borrello on a variety of topics, includling this week's film shoot for "A Quiet Place -2" at Barcelona Harbor near Westfield. The film's producers, including Star John Krasinski, have been in Western New York filming portions of the sci-fi thriller. We also discuss two branding and marketing campaigns taking place in the county. One is the "Find Yourself" in Chautauqua County, which talks about the positive aspects of the county for business people, and people looking for a nice place to move to. The other involves the branding and marketing of the county's more than 40-miles of overland trails. We also discuss the Westfield First Responders Memorial and other matters as time allowed.

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Community Spotlight for Sept. 1-8, 2019

Board of Public Utilities General Manager Dave Leathers

September 1st, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:30

Our Terry Frank speaks with Jamestown Board of Public Utilities General Manager Dave Leathers about a number of topics, including the recent approval of a new, 15-year extension of the BPU -- and 50 other utilities and cooperatives -- agreements with the New York Power Authority. The hydropower agreement provides that vast majority of the city's low cost power. We also briefly discuss the Fourth Appellate Division's recent denial of the city's annexation case involving the BPU's Dow Street Substation over a technicality. Lower courts had not ruled on that previously, but, the merits of the case. We also discuss Fall Water Main flushing... which takes place in about a month in early Oct., as well as budgeting for the BPU's five divisions.

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Community Spotlight for Aug. 23-25, 2019

Jamestown School Superintendent Bret Apthorpe

August 26th, 2019 05:00am | Duration: 14:22

For a back-to-school special, our Noel Blackhall sits down with JPS Superintendent Dr. Bret Apthorpe. The two discuss new personnel changes, goals for the 2019-2020 school year and more!

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Community Spotlight for Aug. 18-25, 2019

Local 23rd Congressional Rep. Tom Reed

August 18th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:10

This week, we high-light comments made by 23rd Congressional District Rep. Tom Reed of Corning. The Republican held his weekly conference call after a week off, and discussed a number of items, but, the main one was gun violence and gun control. Reed, a Republican, says he doesn't want to address an "object," but, deal with the people behind what's going on. He says people who are seriously mentally ill or psychotic and have shown violent tendancies should not be allowed to have a gun. He again pushed back on gun control efforts, including the banning of assault rifles, or high-capacity gun magazines. He also talked about his writing a letter to U-S Attorney General Bill Barr about the need for Felony charges to be brought against people who douse police officers -- as happened twice in New York City recently -- with water or some other liquid or substance.

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Community Spotlight for Aug. 9-11th, 2019

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi

August 12th, 2019 05:35am | Duration: 14:27

In this lighthearted episode of "Community Spotlight", our Noel Blackhall speaks with the City of Jamestown's Mayor Teresi. The pair dive into the emergency demolition of the Arcade Building, what's next for Potter's Terrace, second-quarter sales tax revenues, the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival and more.

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Community Spotlight for Aug. 4-11, 2019

Chautauqua County Executive George Borello

August 4th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

This week, our Terry Frank talks with Chautauqua County Executive George Borrello about the Summer tourism season being in full-swing... including Chautauqua Institution, the Gerry Rodeo, and the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival. He also talks about the impact a year later of the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, which opened on Aug. 1, 2018. We also talk at length about the Harmful Algal Blooms that have returned to Chautauqua Lake, and forced the closing of beaches in Lakewood and Long Point State Park. Borrello also addresses an on-line concern stated at least one person, who was concerned that we are "losing the lake." He believes that's not true, and, says overall it's been a pretty good Summer. We also discuss the start of budget work for 2020. The new budget must be presented to the county legislature by Sept. 25.

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Community Spotlight for July 28-Aug. 3, 2019

National Comedy Center Exec. Director Journey Gunderson

July 28th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:58

Two full-weeks with many of the top names in comedy is set to bring in Jamestown and Chautauqua Instition, and our Terry Frank talks with National Comedy Center Director Journey Gunderson all about it. Gunderson also talks about how the Comedy Center has done as it nears it's first-year anniversary on Thurs., August 1. She says the week at Chautauqua with the theme "What's Funny," kicks off Monday morning on the Amphitheater Stage with Tom and Dick Smothers being interviewed on the 50th anniversary of the cancellation of their controversial "Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour." Later in the week, David Steinberg and Lewis Black talk about the legendary career of the late Robin Williams. The Lucille Ball Comedy Festival returns to Jamestown on Aug. 7-11, and will feature two of the hottest names in stand-up comedy, John Mulany, and Sebastian Maniscalco. For information on Chautauqua events go on-line to ciweb.org... for the festival, go to comedycenter.org.

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Community Spotlight for July 21-28, 2019

Gerry Rodeo Spokesman Paul Cooley

July 21st, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:50

Gerry Rodeo Spokesman Paul Cooley joins our Terry Frank this week to preview the upcoming 75th annual Rodeo at the grounds off Route 60. Cooley says the grounds are pretty much ready for action. With the 75th anniversary, he says they have a number of special activities going on... including fireworks each night after the rodeo events, and they'll have a reunion of sorts for past Rodeo Queens. Cooley says they'll also have the annual Kids Rodeo. The rodeo begins on Wed. night, July 31 and continues each night through Sat. Aug. 3rd at 8 pm each night. Cooley says the rodeo will have it's famous Beef Barbecue dinners each night at 5 pm for patrons. He says they also have more vendors this year selling food and other items. For ticket and other information, Cooley says you can go on-line to www.gerryrodeo.org... or call 985-4847.

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Community Spotlight for July 14-21, 2019

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi

July 14th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:40

Our Terry Frank talks at length with Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi this week about his administration's handling of Development Director Vince DeJoy's decision to be the principal investor in the new "Jimmy's Hometown Restaurant at the former Friendly's location in Brooklyn Square. Teresi says it was a surprise when DeJoy first came into his office to make sure it would be okay to do. Teresi says they reviewed the city charter, and ethics rules, and found that... since he's investing 155,000 dollars of his own money, and not seeking any support from the city, it would be alright. Teresi adds that the New York City owner of the property had been unable in three months to find anyone else to take it over. We also discuss the fact the Jamestown Jammers now have all the main pieces in place to resume play in the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League in 2020. He likes the additions of General Manager Frank Farrell, and Field Manager Jordan Basile.

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Community Spotlight for July 8-15, 2019

Chautauqua County Executive George Borello

July 8th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:40

Our Terry Frank talks with County Executive George Borrello this week on his recent victory in the Republican Primary to run for the 57th State Senate District Race... which was fueled by receiving about 92-percent of the vote in Chautauqua County. He also talks about the recent election of Erie County's Nick Langworthy as the new Chairman of the State GOP. Borrello believes Langworthy brings new energy to the party as it looks to get back some of the seat it lost in the State Senate last year. We also discuss development issues, along with what will be the final LECOM Health Challenge Golf Tournament at the Peek 'n Peak Resort in Findley Lake. LECOM will not be back as title sponsor next year, so the county is looking for a new sponsor, as well as partners to help put on the event.

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Community Spotlight for June 24-July 1, 2019

Chautauqua Region Community Foundation Director Tory Irgang

June 25th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:45

Chautauqua Region Community Foundation Executive Director Tory Irgang joins our Terry Frank this week to look back on the #GiveBigCHQ day of on-line giving... which raised about 189-thousand dollars for local not-for-profit organizations, and other activities, including presentation of the Axel W. Carlson Unsung Hero Award. We also discuss what scholarships are available to local students, namely Seniors who are now graduating from high school, and looking to go onto college, or technical school.

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Community Spotlight for June 16-23, 2019

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi

June 16th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 12:45

City matters are in the spotlight this week with Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi joining our Terry Frank to talk about the annual meeting of the American Public Power Producers Association in Austin, TX. Teresi says the conference focused on everything from renewables, to the newest in electric cars. He also discussed the recent decision by Stannard Group, Inc., to consolidate it's three operations in the town of Ellicott on 10 to 25 acres of land. Unlike what had been stated by a member of the public at a recent city council meeting, Teresi says finding enough available land, not taxes, was the overriding issue. We also talk about a recent investigation by Teresi, Corporation Counsel Peter Larson, and the Jamestown Renaissance Corp. Zach Agett about the city's Special Use Permit, and how those are handled. They recently addressed concerns by former downtown businessman, Gary Templin, about that matter. We also talk about the effort to develop a kayak launch at the McCrae Point Boat Launch.

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Community Spotlight for Jun. 7th-9th, 2019

Chautauqua County Executive George Borrello

June 7th, 2019 09:00pm | Duration: 14:25

The County Executive is in-house this week to speak on the expansion of two local businesses; two new wings of UPMC Chautauqua Hospital; the Hope and Healing Conference of Western New York and more.

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Community Spotlight for June 2-9, 2019

Chautauqua Co. Office for the Aging Director Mary Ann Spanos

June 2nd, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:57

This week, our Terry Frank spotlights Older Americans Month in the county -- and nation -- with County Office for the Aging Director Mary Ann Spanos. Spanos says the number of seniors is increasing, and their needs are increasing. She's pleased that Gov. Andrew Cuomo agreed to give OFA offices state-wide an additional 15-million dollars to eliminate waiting lists. She says that list had grown to 200 in Chautauqua County. She says the county is geting another 478,000 dollars in state funding. She also discusses their programs for in-home care, and programs to assist caregivers. Spanos adds their annual Senior Day Picnic at Midway State Park will be held on July 19th.

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Community Spotlight for May 28-June 2, 2019

Chautauqua Lake and Watershed Management Alliance Chairman Pierre Chagnon

May 28th, 2019 12:00am

We delve further into the issues surrounding Chautauqua Lake this week with Lake and Watershed Management Alliance Chairman Pierre Chagnon. Our Terry Frank talks with Mr. Chagnon at first about the six-year-old alliance, and it's founding as an umbrella organization that can go after funding to help deal with the invasive weed and algal bloom issues. Chagnon says, during the time it's been together, the alliance has been able to bring in about 6-million-dollars for various lake projects. Those also include stream bank restoration, and other work in the watershed areas to keep nutrients -- namely phosphorus -- from getting into the lake.

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Community Spotlight for May 19-26, 2019

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi

May 19th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:50

Our Terry Frank is joined by Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi this week to talk about a number of topics... namely the recently concluded New York State Conference of Mayor's annual meeting in Cooperstown. Teresi say they elected officers, and outlined their agenda for the rest of the state legislative session. He says they would like to see state reimbursements to the 38 communities that the state contracts with to maintain New York roads and highways in those communities addressed. Teresi says that number has remained 70-cents per square yard for the past 32 years. He says Jamestown receives 203,000 a year... but, should be receiving about half-a-million dollars each year. He adds that "Extreme Winter Aid" should also be restored. We also talk about the city taking on a record 140 street and highway, and other capital projects this Summer. Much of that will be funded through the state's Consolidated Highway Improvement Program -- or CHIPS funding. We also talk about the Western New York Regional Economic Development Corporation, or REDC's first meeting of the ninth-round of funding in Fredonia.

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Community Spotlight for May 12-19, 2019

Military Makeover feature with Montel Williams

May 12th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:50

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi was out of town on business most of the past week... and, with that, our Terry Frank features the recent Military Makeover of the Ashville home of Afghanistan War veteran Cody Willett. Willett applied for a makeover, and he and his family were selected. The show's host, TV Talk Show legend Montel Williams was in town of much of the past 7 to 10 days, and talked with Terry for about 10 minutes about the program, it's goals, and how he is doing with his MS, and stroke over the past year. He also talks with the head of the Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program for veteran's in Chautauqua County, Cindy Reidy. Reidy talks about the program, which is state-funded, and how it has helped local veterans with their transition back to civilian life.

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Community Spotlight for May 5-12, 2019

Chautauqua County Executive George Borello

May 5th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:40

This week, our Terry Frank speaks with County Executive George Borrello on a number of topics, including the major effort to clean-up the "weed mass" that was left late last Fall along the shoreline of Burtis Bay in Chautauqua Lake. Borrello says several pieces of machinery were staged early last week, and clean-up should take just over two-weeks. He adds they are also aware of the pilot program involving the Chautauqua Lake Partnership, and a Great Lakes group to put sensors in a couple of spots on the lake that may be at high-risk for harmful algal blooms. He says it's similar to something done in Lake George, which saw a large number of algal blooms at one time. We also discuss a 2-million-dollar state grant being provided to the county to help with treating those dealing with opioid drug addiction. We also talk about what appears to be a more collaborative effort between the Southern Tier, and Jamestown Metro Drug Task Forces.

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Community Spotlight for Apr. 26-28, 2019

Jamestown School Superintendent Bret Apthorpe

April 29th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 12:06

Jamestown Public Schools recently adopted a spending plan for the 2019-2020 school year. With that, Dr. Apthorpe sits down with our Noel Blackhall to dive into everything including in the 90.7-million budget. Additionally, a search for a principal for Jamestown High School is close to fruition. Apthorpe discusses how to search has gone and when a new head of academia will be announced.

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Community Spotlight for Apr. 21-28, 2019

Jamestown Board of Public Utilities General Mgr. Dave Leathers

April 21st, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:50

This week, our Terry Frank talks with Jamestown Board of Public Utilities General Manager Dave Leathers about a number of topics, including first-quarter performance of the BPU's five divisions. Leathers says they had a good first three months of 2019, adding there were no rate increases included for any of the divisions. He says the earliest they may consider an Electric rate hike would be late in 2020. He says the concluded the two-year, 5.7-million dollar boiler dismantling project on time, and under budget. He adds they are also right about where they expected to be from a budget stand-point regarding legal expenses for the city's proposed annexation of land the BPU's Dow Street Substation is located on in the village of Falconer, near the city line. We also discuss recycling efforts, and where those stand.

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Community Spotlight for Apr. 7-14, 2019

Chautauqua County Executive George Borello

April 7th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:50

This week, our Terry Frank talks with Chautauqua County Executive George Borrello on a number of topics, including the recently approved New York state budget. Borrello says, aside from making the 2-percent Property Tax Cap permanent, the spending plan is largely a "shell game..." especially with how Governor Andrew Cuomo deals with Aid and Incentives to Municipalities aid... with much of it supported by Internet sales tax revenues. We also discuss Borrello obtaining enough signatures to run for the state Senate seat recently vacated by Olean's Cathy Young. We also discuss his signing of the Memorandum of Agreement for the new Chautauqua Lake Consensus Strategy, and the county's new Economic Development Strategy. Finally, we also discuss moving ahead with a feasibility study of boosting the Barley and Hops industries locally.

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Community Spotlight for Mar. 31-April 6, 2019

Jamestown Community College President Dr. Daniel DeMarte

March 31st, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 11:00

This week, our Terry Frank welcomes Jamestown Community College President Daniel DeMarte for the first time to the program. We talk with Dr. DeMarte about the draw of community colleges for him, and his decision to come to JCC after several years at one of the largest community colleges in the nation in Tidewater, Virginia. We talk about the challenge of moving from a program of Continuing Education to Workforce Prepardness and Readiness, along with still declining enrollments at JCC and other 2 year schools in the State University system. We also talk about the state budget, and the need for a new model to support community colleges as opposed to the one now that puts an emphasis on enrollments. DeMarte says he's just asking the state at this point to "fund us at the formula."

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Community Spotlight for Mar. 24-31, 2019

Congressman Tom Reed's weekly media call

March 24th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:45

We had no in-studio guest this past week... so we have aired portions of local Congressman Tom Reed's weekly telephone conference call with regional media. Reed speaks at the beginning about a push among House members to have a final vote on the U-S, Mexico, Canada Trade Agreement. Reed says he has personally asked House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to bring the measure up for a vote. While some have called it "NAFTA 2.0.." Reed says it's an updated agreement that takes into consideration the way business and farming work now, and accounts for upgrades in computer and other technology. The Corning Republican also talks about the recent meeting in Celoron about ways to make commercial air service viable at the County Airport near Jamestown. He says it was a good meeting, with lots of support for bringing Boutique Air, or some other carrier, in to the facility. He also discusses efforts to get a vote on the expired "9/11" Victims Compensation Fund... and, comments on the recent College Admissions scandal.

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Community Spotlight for Mar. 18-24, 2019

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi

March 18th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:10

Our Terry Frank talks with Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi this week about a number of issues, including the decision by State Senator Cathy Young to retire from the Senate. Teresi says it's a big loss for the area, and says he is not, and will not be, a candidate for the Democratic nomination to run. We also discuss to legal matters the city is involved in, first the arbitration case involving the Jamestown Police Department Kendall Club-PBA. The city is appealing the case, which was won by the union recently by a 2-1 vote. A formal appearance in court is coming this week. He also says that court action should begin soon in the city and it's Board of Public Utilities' effort to annex about 4-acres of land it owns in the village of Falconer. We also discuss the Frewsburg Soccer Association signing a two-year lease with the city to use the former Allen Park Ice Rink.

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Community Spotlight for Mar. 10-17, 2019

Chautauqua County Executive George Borello

March 11th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:50

Our Terry Frank speaks with County Executive George Borrello this week on a number of topics, including his recent State of the County Address in which he discussed promoting new collaborations regarding Chautauqua Lake, and economic development. We also discuss new word that the Chautauqua Lake Association is asking the state Dept. of Environmental Conservation to not grant herbicide permits to any lake groups in 2019. We also discuss meetings of the county's new Citizens Advisory Council... and, the new economic development plan at the end of March.

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Community Spotlight for Mar.4-10, 2019

Chautauqua Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Council Exec. Director Melanie Witkowski

March 4th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:15

With the proposed legalization of recreational marijuana in New York state, our Terry Frank talks with Melanie Witkowski, the executive director of the Chautauqua Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Council about the ramifications involved. CASAC officials testified at a hearing in the Buffalo-area regarding the proposal last year, and noted that children's brains are still developing, and, that marijuana use can impact their learning, as well as intelligence. She also pointed out the issues with synthetic, and concentrated cannibus, as well as workplace issues.

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Community Spotlight for Feb. 24-Mar. 2, 2019

State Assemblyman Andy Goodell

February 24th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

State Assemblyman Andy Goodell speaks with our Terry Frank this week during the President's Day Week break for the state legislature in Albany. We talk about the whirlwind first month and a half in which numerous pieces of legislation were approved. However... in the Democratic-majorities haste, he says there was some legislation that wasn't well-crafted. In fact, lawmakers have had to go back and make some changes to what was approved. Goodell expresses concern over three pieces of legislation in particular, the Child Sexual Abuse Act, the Women's Reproductive Health Act, and pending legislation regarding legalizing recreational marijuana for adults in New York state. He says the Child Sexual Abuse Act is too open-ended for people to go back and claim abuse years later. He also feels the Women's Reproductive Act goes to far in allowing abortions up through the child's birth.

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Community Spotlight for Feb. 17-24, 2019

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi

February 18th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:40

This week, Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi talks in more detail about his decision to not run for a sixth-term as the city's top-elected official. He says it was a personal decision that he discussed a lot with his family. He reiterated, though, that there is still a lot of time left in this year, and plenty to accomplish. One of those items is restoring commercial air service to the Chautauqua County Airport near Jamestown... something he blamed the previous carrier, Southern Airways, for causing due to numerous cancelled flights. We also discuss his trip to the New York State Conference of Mayor's legislative session in Albany... where the proposal to legalize recreational marijuana was the big topic. Teresi says other items included unfunded mandates from the state, and Gov. Cuomo's plan to eliminate local AIM aid to local towns and villages.

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Community Spotlight for Feb. 10-17, 2019

Chautauqua County Executive George Borrello

February 10th, 2019 05:36pm | Duration: 14:50

County Executive George Borrello joins our Terry Frank to discuss a number of topics, including two regarding Chautauqua Lake. Borrello discusses his meeting with officials from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regarding a feasibility study of work that could be done to mitigate flood and invasive vegetation on the lake, along with a recent meeting of the Lake and Watershed Management Agency regarding it's work, and investigation of a possible lake taxing district to provide important funding to deal with it's issues with weeds and algal blooms. We also discuss the recent left-leaning legislation that's been adopted in Albany by the state legislature. Namely, we talk about funding issues for voting reform, and the move to legalize recreational marijuana in the state.

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Community Spotlight for Feb. 3-10, 2019

Meals on Wheels Exec. Director Barrie Yochum

February 4th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:40

This week... our Terry Frank talks with Executive Dir. Barrie Yochum with Meals on Wheels of the Jamestown-area about a number of topics. Yochum says they try to continue delivering meals, even when the weather is hazardous like last week, to provide seniors with nutritious meals, and social interaction. He says there are two pieces of good news: The first is that Meals on Wheels nationally got a bump in funding in last October's budget deal put in place by President Trump and federal lawmakers. The other is that the waiting list for seniors and other home-bound individuals has been eliminated, thanks to the collaboration of some local foundations and others to help provide more stable funding for the organization. Yochum says they also still need volunteers to help deliver during the course of the year. For more information, he says contact NY Connects... or Meals on Wheels directly at 488-9119.

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Community Spotlight for Jan. 27-Feb. 2, 2019

United Way Exec. Director Amy Rohler

January 28th, 2019 09:25am | Duration: 14:50

Our Terry Frank welcomes United Way of Southern Chautauqua County Executive Dir. Amy Rohler to the program for the first time. Rohler is still riding a "high" after the organization met and exceeded their 2018 General Campaign goal of 1.335-million dollars. Rohler says they raised 1,346,780 dollars, most of which will go towards 39 programs at 26 local human service agencies. She says it was exciting... but, adds there was also some stress because it's the first, full campaign she's been part of. However... she praised her staff, and their army of volunteers for helping them raise the goal. She says they are most often asked where the money goes, and if they are affiliated with the national organization. Rohler says, while there is some affiliation... ALL the money raised staying with the organization for it's programs, like the 2-1-1 Referral Service, and their 26 partner agencies.

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Community Spotlight for Jan. 18 - Jan 20, 2019

Chautauqua Striders

January 21st, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:15

"Chautauqua Striders is dedicated to the mentoring and guidance of youth through education, advocacy and athletics.” That according to their website, and more is discussed in this week's program with Noel Blackhall. In studio, we sit down with Mentoring Coordinator Richard Olson-Walter and Director of Mentoring Erika Swanson Muecke. For more information on their programs and upcoming events visit ChautauquaStriders.org!

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Community Spotlight for Jan. 13-20, 2019

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi

January 13th, 2019 05:49pm | Duration: 14:59

This week, our Terry Frank discusses the filling of a Jamestown City Council vacancy with Mayor Sam Teresi. The vacancy was created by the resignation last Dec. 17 by At-Large member Vanessa Weinert. Weinert, a Democrat, cited personal reasons... and, Teresi says he's received a lot of interest from prospective candidates. He says 10 people from various backgrounds in the public and private sectors have contacted him. Teresi hopes to do that in time for the council's Jan. 28 meeting. He also hopes the person will run again for the seat in November. We also discuss vehicle and equipment needs, and a possible bonding resolution to fill some of those needs. We also look ahead to the start of the state legislative session, and Governor Cuomo's State of the State Address regarding making the 2-percent Property Tax Cap permanent, and other issues.

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Community Spotlight for Jan. 4 - Jan 6, 2019

County Executive George Borello

January 4th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 12:44

Our Noel Blackhall is ringing in the new year with a look back at 2018! Chautauqua County Executive George Borello sits down to discuss statistics, employment, and a new Sheriff.

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Community Spotliight for Dec. 31, 2018-Jan. 6, 2019

2018 Year in Review

December 31st, 2018 09:31am | Duration: 14:46

This week, News Director Terry Frank looks back on the major stories of 2018, starting with the first-year of the administration of Chautauqua County Executive George Borrello. Borrello fulfilled a campaign promise of visiting 100 businesses in his first 100 days in office. We also look back on crime stories, including the return of accused arsonist Jonathon Young, who was being held on unrelated charges in Butler, PA. We also look back on the 2018 General Election, which produced a "red wave" for Republicans in the county... led by challenger Jim Quattrone's victory over incumbent, six-term Democratic Sheriff Joe Gerace. We also look at three big retail closings in the Jamestown-area... led by the closing of Sam's Club... and, we look at the opening of the new, Celoron Harborfront Hotel, and the big story of the year, the grand opening of the new, National Comedy Center in Jamestown.

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Community Spotlight for Dec. 23-30, 2018

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi

December 23rd, 2018 08:10pm | Duration: 14:58

Our Terry Frank talks with Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi about the projects in the city receiving fund from the latest round of Regional Economic Development Council awards from New York State. The biggest one for the city itself is 100,000 for the acquisition of the Chautauqua Brick Company on Market Street for light commercial and other development along the city's Riverwalk area. He says there are a number of possible developments that could go there. We also talk about the decision by At-Large City Councilwoman Vanessa Weinert to step down from her seat after missing several meetings. Weinert cited personal reasons for stepping down, and it will now be up to Mayor Teresi to fill that position with a Democrat from within the city. He says he will get input from current council members, and members of the Democratic Committee, but, he will have the final say. We also look back briefly on 2018.

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Community Spotlight for Dec. 17-24, 2018

Jamestown City Councilman Tony Dolce

December 17th, 2018 09:42am | Duration: 14:58

Our Terry Frank does a look back on the Jamestown City Council in 2018 with Second-Ward Councilman Tony Dolce. Dolce, who also chairs the panel's Finance Committee, says it was another difficult budget year leading up to 2019 with a lot of items cut, or taken out of the nearly 36-million dollar spending plan to help balance it. The budget again depends on New York state again making a special, additional state aid payment of one-million dollars to help Jamestown's bottom line. Dolce adds that -- if the city is unable to get a 2-percent pay raise for Jamestown Police Department Kendall Club-PBA members struck down in court -- it will essentially wipe-out any undesignated fund balance very quickly. We also talk about equipment needs, with lawmakers voting this Monday night on using the rest of the city's contingency account, and it's "over-and-under" from the 2018 spending plan to pay for a new bombardier sidewalk plow after one old model broke-down in the most recent snow storm that hit the city. With all that, Dolce does express optimism for 2019 because several projects are coming to fruition -- and the National Comedy Center will have been open for a year this coming Summer.

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Community Spotlight for Dec. 9-16, 2018

Chautauqua Harborfront Hotel owner-operator David Hart

December 9th, 2018 05:14pm | Duration: 14:58

Chautauqua County Executive George Borrello was not available this week... so we present some of the main comments offered by the owner of the new, Chautauqua Harborfront Hotel in Celoron, David Hart. Hart spoke at the Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce's annual luncheon meeting at his hotel... and, discussed tourism, and why that was a big reason for them locating their newest hotel there. Hart believes they are positioned well, with several new attractions for the area up and running now, including the new National Comedy Center in Jamestown. Hart says the 38-million dollar hotel includes 135 upscale rooms, waterfront view, ballrooms, a restaurant and other amenities. He adds it also has historic themes central to Celoron, including the former Celoron Amusement Park.

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Local News

WJTN Headlines for Sat., Dec. 7, 2019

Posted Today At 12:15pm by Terry Frank

Thousands line streets of Jamestown to see annual Christmas Parade and Holiday Celebration... Thousands of people lined West and East Third Street in downtown Jamestown last night for the annual Chri...

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