Community Spotlight - Media One Radio Group (WWSE, WJTN, WHUG, WKZA, WKSN, WQFX)

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 Oct. 25-Nov. 1, 2020

Our Terry Frank concludes Media One's programs focusing on the candidates for local and regional office in Chautauqua County and Jamestown this week. He talks with Democrat Patrick Swanson, the incumbant District Attorney. Swanson discusses his background, and defends his record against criticism by Republican challenger, Jason Schmidt. Schmidt has attacked Swanson for having a 17.4-percent success rate of convicting accused Felons last year. Swanson says his office's overall conviction rate remains better than the statewide average, and, has done so having to navigate new and changing laws -- especially bail reform this year. Swanson also says his very understaffed office has been able to do that with only 12-and-a-half staffers. He also touted having the New York State Police Trooper union's endorsement in his re-election bid.

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Community Spotlight for Oct. 25-Nov. 1, 2020

Incumbant Chautauqua Co. District Attorney Patrick Swanson

October 25th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

Our Terry Frank concludes Media One's programs focusing on the candidates for local and regional office in Chautauqua County and Jamestown this week. He talks with Democrat Patrick Swanson, the incumbant District Attorney. Swanson discusses his background, and defends his record against criticism by Republican challenger, Jason Schmidt. Schmidt has attacked Swanson for having a 17.4-percent success rate of convicting accused Felons last year. Swanson says his office's overall conviction rate remains better than the statewide average, and, has done so having to navigate new and changing laws -- especially bail reform this year. Swanson also says his very understaffed office has been able to do that with only 12-and-a-half staffers. He also touted having the New York State Police Trooper union's endorsement in his re-election bid.

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Community Spotlight for Oct. 19-26, 2020

Republican County District Attorney candidate Jason Schmidt

October 19th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:15

Our Terry Frank begins a two-part look at the candidates for Chautauqua County District Attorney with an interview of Republican challenger Jason Schmidt. It's a rematch of four-years ago when Schmidt ran against Democrat Patrick Swanson for the seat. Schmidt says most recent statistics show the county has only a 17.4-percent conviction rate on Felony cases. He also rebutts Swanson's argument that the county's conviction rate is better than most others in New York state. Even though the county D-A's office has a staff of less than half the state average, Schmidt says the county is not doing as well as it should be. Schmidt has been endorsed by the Dunkirk Police Officers organization in his run for D-A.

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Community Spotlight for Oct. 11-18, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

October 11th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:40

Our Terry Frank talks with Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist about his proposed 2021 budget... which totals 34.8-million dollars, and includes a slight tax decrease. Sundquist says, though, that it was an "extremely challenging" spending plan to put together. However... he believes people will be pleased with the 70,000 tax levy decrease, and 17-cent per 1,000 dollar cut to the tax rate. City Council will soon begin discussing the proposal. We also discuss the city's Parking Ticket Amnesty Program, which has already brought in a large number of donations of canned goods, and school supplies for local agencies and schools. We also discuss pending changes to Freedom of Information applications, and a second downtown restaurant, Labrynth Press Co. and Brazil, applying for a Parklet for outdoor dining.

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Community Spotlight for Oct. 3-10, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

October 4th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:50

Interim County Executive P-J Wendel joins our Terry Frank again this week... this time in his official capacity. We mainly talk about his 2021 budget proposal... which includes about a 3-percent increase in the tax levy, but, has a 5-cent per 1,000 dollar reduction in the tax rate to 8.41. Wendel says actions his administration took earlier this year due to the COVID-19 Pandemic have helped them in getting this budget in place. While it exceeds the state's 2-percent property tax levy, it does not use any undesignated fund balance. We also discuss the need for people to complete the Census, as Monday is the deadline. Wendel also says the county has already received a lot of interest in the 10.5-million dollar CARES Act funding to help small businesses locally that have been hurt by the COVID-19 shut-downs.

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Community Spotlight for Sept. 27-Oct. 3, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

September 28th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:58

This week, we discuss the race for Chautauqua County Executive with Interim Executive P-J Wendel, who has been in the seat since Jan. 1 of this year. Wendel says 2020 has been a huge challenge, but, says he's made the best of a difficult situation. He further explained the county's response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, which has seen significant upticks since the beginning of September. He says the outbreaks at both Fieldbrook Foods in Dunkirk, and the SUNY College at Fredonia, have now been pretty much contained. He says the county was also able to get New York State to keep Rapid Testing machines in the county to deal with hot-spots. We also discuss economic development, which the Lakewood Republican feels will be aided by the recent announcement of 10.5-million dollars from the federal CARES Act to help local businesses that have been heavily-impacted by COVID-related shut-downs. We heard from his Democratic challenger, Richard Morrisroe on last week's show.

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Community Spotlight for Sept. 19-27, 2020

Democratic candidate for Chautauqua Co. Exec. Rich Morrisroe

September 19th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:45

This week, our Terry Frank speaks with the Democratic challenger in the race for Chautauqua County Executive, Rich Morrisroe of Dunkirk. Morrisroe has been Dunkirk City Attorney for the past three years, and has worked in a variety of capacities during his life. He says the county should have been quicker in it's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, especially regarding the announcement of the outbreak at Fieldbrook Foods. Morrisroe says he and his family came to the north county area a few years ago from Buffalo. He says he wants to work to improve economic opportunities here, and, bring back more young adults, and attract new residents. He says the move to attract an Amazon warehouse is a positive, but, questions what kind of incentives it may take, and how many real jobs will be created versus robots. We'll hear from current interim Executive, Republican P.J. Wendel, next weekend.

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Community Spotlight for Sept. 13-20, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

September 13th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:15

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist joins our Terry Frank this week to discuss a number of topics, including the announcement that 10.5-million dollars in federal CARES Act funding it coming to Chautauqua County from the U-S Economic Development Administration to help small businesses struggling in the COVID-19 pandemic. Sundquist also revealed that the city was receiving another 300,000 dollars in CARES Act funding from HUD to do more for both small businesses and renters, in addition to the 705,000 the city received earlier in the pandemic. We also discuss contract negotiations, the latest project in the city's illumination program, and that city council will hold it's work session this Monday night in the lobby of City Hall to allow social distancing, but, the public is not invited to attend. It will be streamed on-line.

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Community Spotlight for Sept. 7-14, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

September 7th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:30

Our Terry Frank gets an update from Interim County Exec. P-J Wendel on the COVID-19 numbers from the two clusters of cases in the North County. Wendel says the numbers have eased up at both Fieldbrook Foods in Dunkirk, and the SUNY College at Fredonia. He says the number of actual employees at Fieldbrook testing positive was 58 by the weekend, with 21 "Close Contact" cases. At SUNY Fredonia, the cases over the weekend increased 56. Wendel also says the county has been successful in having four of the "Rapid Testing" machines left by the state here during the outbreaks... along with up to 1,000 test kits. We also discuss the tentative county budget, which Wendel says is done. He says they still have some unknowns to work on, but, believes people will be happy with what he and his administration has been able to craft. The spending plan is due by Sept. 25th, and the County Legislature meets on Wed., Sept. 23rd, which is the likely date the budget will be presented.

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Community Spotlight for Aug. 30-Sept. 5, 2020

Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy Exec. Dir. John Jablonski, and Board Pres. Rebecca Nystrom

August 30th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 12:35

Our Terry Frank high-light's the 30th anniversary of the Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy with Executive Director John Jablonski, and Board President Rebecca Nystrom. They discuss the beginnings of the organization, which a group of people began work on after seeing the rise of invasive weed growth, and other issues stemming from run-off into the lake. They say the conservancy first started with an emphasis on Chautauqua Lake, but, has also done work to preserve natural shorelines along Cassadaga, and Findley Lakes. The conservancy uses grants to acquire available land to act as natural buffers to keep sediment from getting into the lakes. The Conservancy's 30th anniversary program was held last Thursday night via Zoom conferencing.

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Community Spotlight for Aug, 23-30, 2020

Chautauqua County Sheriff Jim Quattrone

August 23rd, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:15

Our Terry Frank speaks with Chautauqua County Sheriff Jim Quattrone this week about a number of topics and issues, including the need for local police and sheriff's departments to put a reinventing, and police reform plan with community input. Quattrone says they've been able to meet with local entities and discuss that. He believes they will have a plan by next April, as ordered by New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo. We also discuss the number of calls received this year, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quattrone says they've seen definate increases in mental health, domestic violence, and drug overdose calls. He adds all five lakes in the county have been very busy this Summer. We also discuss bail reform impacts, and county jail population, which is down drastically with it.

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Community Spotlight for Aug. 16-23, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

August 16th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

This week, our Terry Frank discusses a number of topics with Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist, who discusses his first half-year in office, and that it's been nothing like he expected, due mainly to COVID-19. However... he says he enjoys the challenge. We also discuss budget discussions, and how soon city lawmakers may have to look at a second-phase of cuts. Sundquist says they are waiting for the state to tell how much they'll be getting in municipal aid first. He also discusses the first business to take advantage of the new Food Truck Pilot Program in the downtown-area, along with the process of getting a new Police Chief/Director of Public Safety in place, as well as a new Human Rights Commission.

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Community Spotlight for Aug. 9-16, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

August 9th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

Our Terry Frank gets updates on Chautauqua County's situation during the COVID-19 Pandemic, and the frustration over lack of state guidance for reopening gyms, fitness centers, and bowling alleys. Interim County Executive P-J Wendel says many of those places are struggling right now -- and some may be on the verge of closing -- because they've had no income since mid or late March. We also discuss where the county is after about 150 workers took voluntary furlough to save the county about 1-million dollars. We also discuss the 2021 budget, which Wendel and his finance team is working on, and will present in late September. We also discuss changes in county government with the resignation of Human Resources Director Jessica Wisniewski and retirement of Director of Environmental Health Services, Mark Stow. Wisniewski is being replaced by Jean Riley. Stow, who is leaving after 22 years with the county, is being replaced by Water Specialist, Bill Boria.

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Community Spotlight for Aug.2-9, 2020

State Senator George Borrello

August 2nd, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

This week, our Terry Frank speaks with 57th State Senator George Borrello about his first six months officially being on the job, and the outcomes of the most recent State Legislative session. He says the Democratic majorities in both the Senate and Assembly approved a number of left-leaning measure, and while there was some amending of the bail reform measure approved last year, he says it doesn't go nearly far enough. Borrello also discusses a letter he sent Gov. Andrew Cuomo, calling on his to rescind his special order that stopped the Prompt Payment Law for services the state contracts with for services from local non-profits and not-for-profit organizations. He also talks about his re-election campaign that'll get fully underway next month.

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Community Spotlight for July 24-26, 2020

Jamestown Public Schools Superintendent Kevin Whitaker

July 27th, 2020 06:09am | Duration: 14:55

This week, Noel Blackhall discusses plans and actions with Dr. Kevin Whitaker in regards to the nickname and imagery associated with the Jamestown High School "Red Raiders". Whitaker tells us that the district is in the information-gathering phase to collect responses from both sides of the argument, while also trying to balance a plan for re-opening schools in the Fall.

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Community Spotlight for July 19-26, 2020

Democratic 150th Assembly District candidate Christina Cardinale

July 19th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 15:10

This week, Terry Frank speaks with the Democratic challenger for the 150th District State Assembly seat, Christina Cardinale of Jamestown about her candidacy. She says she is running because she's been helping people in her line of work, and would like to represent them in Albany. She also feels that incumbant Republican Andy Goodell has not been doing his job representing people, and helping businesses to stay open during the COVID-19 pandemic the way he should. She supports most of the recent police reforms approved in Albany, but, says she does have problems with bail reform measures approved by the legislature last year, and feels judges should have more discretion on keeping certain suspects in jail. She also gives Gov. Andrew Cuomo mixed reviews on how he's handled the pandemic.

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Community Spotlight for July 12-19, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

July 12th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:57

This week, our Terry Frank interviews Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist on a variety of issues, including his decision to name Lt. Timothy Jackson to be Acting Police Chief with the retirement of Harry Snellings. Snellings' last day was last Friday. We also discuss safety concerns given the recent increase in violent crime in a number of spots across the county. However.. a recent stretch of two stabbings and a shooting incident, Sundquist says, appear to have been caused by a number of factors, and arrests have been made in each. The search for a new permanent chief will begin shortly. We also discuss City Council looking this Monday night at a new pilot program for food trucks to be allowed in the downtown area. It would be part of ordinances that allow outdoor dining to help local restaurants deal with indoor seating restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Community Spotlight for July 5-12, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

July 5th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:58

Our Terry Frank speaks with Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel on three main topics... the first being the county moving into Phase-Four of "NY Forward." While that's good, Wendel says not everything has reopened from the COVID-19 shut-down. He says malls, gyms, and some other places are still not opened yet... and, he says he has written Gov. Andrew Cuomo about possibly having a Phase-Five and even Six to give people goals to strive for. He also says he's open to looking at the possibility of opting the county back out of "non-aerial" fireworks sales leading up to the Fourth of July. He says he's aware of the recent increase in complaints and other issues surrounding fireworks that are mostly brought in from Pennsylvania. We also discuss the county budget, and work beginning on that with department heads for 2021.

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Community Spotlight for June 28-July 4, 2020

Democratic Congressional candidate Tracy Mitrano

June 28th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:40

Our Terry Frank has parts of a recent inteview with Democratic Congressional candidate Tracy Mitrano of Penn Yan. Mitrano, who won a five-way primary to face incumbant 23rd District Republican Tom Reed two years ago, was able to avoid a primary this time around, and is thankful for that. She says it's allowed her to focus on the general campaign, and she has 250,000 in the bank to run against Reed, compared to the 8,000 she had to start with in 2018. Mitrano feels the Democratic ticket is strong from top for bottom. She also reiterated her support of the region's Black Lives Matter movement, has attended some -- including the recent one in Jamestown. As for the rioting and vandalism that has occured in some places, she says those committing criminal acts needed to be arrested and punished. She adds that she has seen nothing like that from protesters in the 23rd District.

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Community Spotlight for June 21-28, 2020

State Assemblyman Andy Goodell

June 21st, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

Our Terry Frank speaks with New York state Assemblyman Andy Goodell about a number of state issues... including the most recent extension of Gov. Andrew Cuomo's State of Emergency due to the coronavirus pandemic. He says he and other lawmakers are looking at various ways to curtail that power either before or after the pandemic ends. We also discuss his votes on recently approved Police Reform legislation. Goodell says he had "mixed votes" on the issues... voting for allowing recording of encounters with police. However... he voted against complete repeal of Civil Law allowing police records of disciplinary action -- substantiated and otherwise -- to be made public. We also discuss the fact he is running this Fall for re-election to a sixth-term in office.

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Community Spotlight for June 21-28, 2020

State Assemblyman Andy Goodell

June 21st, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

Our Terry Frank speaks with New York state Assemblyman Andy Goodell about a number of state issues... including the most recent extension of Gov. Andrew Cuomo's State of Emergency due to the coronavirus pandemic. He says he and other lawmakers are looking at various ways to curtail that power either before or after the pandemic ends. We also discuss his votes on recently approved Police Reform legislation. Goodell says he had "mixed votes" on the issues... voting for allowing recording of encounters with police. However... he voted against complete repeal of Civil Law allowing police records of disciplinary action -- substantiated and otherwise -- to be made public. We also discuss the fact he is running this Fall for re-election to a sixth-term in office.

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Community Spotlight for June 14-21, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

June 15th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:05

Our Terry Frank talks with Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist this week about a number of topics, including the recent retirement of Deputy Fire Chief Sam Salemme, and Police Chief and Public Safety Director Harry Snellings' pending retirement in July. Sundquist says he now has a "couple of big shoes" to fill. He says Battalion Chief Matt Coon is currently the Acting Deputy Fire Chief until a formal decision is made on a replacement. We also discuss the city's financial situation after City Council approved 1.15-million dollars in cuts to the 2020 budget due to the COVID-19 outbreak and shut-down. He says officials want to see how revenues and state aid starts coming in before deciding on moving to Phase-2 of cuts. We also discuss the need for people to fill out the 2020 Census if they have not already, and the status of City Courts during the pandemic, and now going forward.

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Community Spotlight for June 7-14, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

June 7th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:58

Our Terry Frank speaks with Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel this week on a number of topic related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier this week, the county got the good news that it -- and all of the Western New York region -- entered Phase-Two of reopening, which allows hair salons and barbershops to reopen. In addition, some additional retail can open. A day later, though, outdoor dining was allowed -- with social distancing -- for local restaurants. We also discuss budget matters and getting nearly 150 county workers to take a voluntary furlough to help save the county money. Most revenue areas -- mainly sales tax -- are expected to be way down this year due to cancellations from the pandemic.

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Community Spotlight for June 1-7, 2020

St. Susan's Center Executive Director Bonnie Scott-Sleight

June 1st, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:05

Our Terry Frank talks this week with St. Susan's soup kitchen Executive Director Bonnie Scott-Sleight about the challenges they're facing due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Scott-Sleight says they're doing as well as they can, but, they're kitchen's not open due to the shut-down, and they are distributing bagged lunches through a make shift "drive-thru" for local people in need." She says they have been hampered by a loss of the ability to fund-raise on the eve of the upcoming "Cents for St. Susan's" drive headed up by the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities. Scott-Sleight says they welcome donations of food and other items they can put in their lunches, along with monetary donations. For more information... go to their website or facebook page, or call 664-2253.

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Community Spotlight for May 25-June 1, 2020

Blue Star Mothers local Vice-President Kathy Collver

May 25th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:35

With most Memorial Day programs cancelled or scaled-back, the Blue Star Mothers, Lake Erie Chapter-4 is holding a "drive-in" Memorial Day program in the parking lot of the Chautauqua Mall in Lakewood. Vice-President Kathy Collver talks with our Terry Frank this weekend about the program, which begins at 1 p.m. Monday afternoon, with a special stage set up next to the former Ruby Tuesday restaurant off Fairmount Avenue. Kollver says she got the idea from a similar "drive-in" program held using a special radio frequency for the National Day of Prayer at the mall -- near the former Sears Auto Center. Today's program will feature several dignitaries, with the keynote address given by current Chautauqua County Veteran's Services Director Major Greg Carlson, and two local students will also be taking part. People are encouraged to bring flags, but, observe social distancing by staying in your cars. Collver says the Lakewood Fire Department will also be flying a huge flag off their ladder truck. The program, which begins at 1 p.m. can be heard in the parking lot, or anywhere in the region, on WJTN 1240 AM or 101.3 FM, or at wjtn.com.

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Community Spotlight for May 17-24, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

May 17th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:25

As part of our ongoing coverage of the COVID-19 Pandemic locally, our Terry Frank talks with Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist, who is one of two elected officials named to the Western New York Regional Control Room group. They will oversee, and help troubleshoot the region's reopening, once it starts. Sundquist is joined on the panel by Chautauqua County Executive P-J Wendel. Sundquist says the region is "very close" to being allowed to go to "Phase-One" of the reopening, which would allow more manufacturing, construction, and more curbside retail. WNY -- as of Sunday night -- met six of Governor Andrew Cuomo's seven benchmarks for reopening. We also talk about the Census, and where those numbers are for the 2020 Complete Count. In addition, we talk about the fact the city is now accepting input on two uses for an additional 700,000 dollars in Community Development Block Grant funding from the federal government.

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Community Spotlight for May 10-17, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

May 10th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

This week, our Terry Frank talks with Interim County Executive P-J Wendel about the COVID-19 Virus outbreak, and plans to reopen sometime in the near future. Governor Andrew Cuomo's "Pause NY" stay-at-home order runs through May 15, so discussions are taking place about opening up some low-risk manufacturing and construction work in the region. Wendel says, the good news is, that testing is being ramped up to the governor's guidelines for reopening, which he says will be a big help in the effort to reopen. We also discuss the county airport, and the fact a proposal for restart commercial air service is making it's way through the U-S Dept. of Transportation.

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Community Spotlight for May 1-3, 2020

Misty Pennington, Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene

May 4th, 2020 05:00am | Duration: 15:29

This week, our Noel Blackhall is joined via telephone with Mental Health Program Coordinator Misty Penningston, to discuss the effects of the Novel Coronavirus and its impact on the mental health of Chautauqua County residents. We know COVID-19 is leaving its mark across the globe, but Pennington tells us that there's no shortage of helplines in the county for treatment and support. More information can be found online at the county's website, CombatAddictionCHQ.com and by calling 716-753-4104.

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Community Spotlight for Apr. 26-May 2, 2020

Chautauqua Region Community Foundation Director Tory Irgang on COVID-19 response

April 26th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:58

This week, our Terry Frank speaks with Chautauqua Region Community Foundation Exec. Director Tory Irgang about the new Chautauqua Crisis Response Fund -- COVID-19. The fund was first set up in late March by the foundation, along with the United Ways in both the south and north county areas to help provide funding for critical, local human service organizations because smaller amounts of money will be coming in at a time where their services will likely be needed in greater amounts. Irgang says the fund has raised about 871,000 dollars so far on way to a goal of 1-million dollars. So far, they have doled out about 218,000 to 16 local agencies and organizations. For more information on the fund, and support it, go on-line to the foundation's website, or those of the United Ways of Southern and Northern Chautauqua County.

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Community Spotlight for Apr. 20-26, 2020

Salvation Army of Jamestown Major Kim Merchant

April 20th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 12:40

As part of our continuing coverage of the COVID-19 Virus outbreak in Chautauqua County and all of New York State, our Dennis Webster and Russ Diethrick talked late last week with the Salvation Army of Jamestown's Kim Merchant. The major says they have been very busy since the outbreak began, and non-essential businesses had to shut-down. She says for the month of March, they assisted 996 families, or well over 2,000 people. Merchant says that was mostly over the last two weeks of the month. She says they usually serve 650 to 800 a month. Merchant says it's been a huge challenge, mainly because their Red Kettle Campaign late last year came up short. If you would like to donate to the Salvation Army of Jamestown, send a check to them at 83 South Main St., Jamestown, 14701.

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Community Spotlight for Apr. 12-19, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

April 12th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:20

Our Terry Frank talks over the phone with Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist to get an update on the city's response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Generally, Sundquist says he's "very proud" of how residents and businesses have responded. He says there were a few cases of people congregating on playground equipment, and basketball courts... which have now been closed. However, the city's parks remain open. We also discuss the decision to prohibit "non-essential" construction work in the city, and what that impacts. We also discuss additional Community Development Block Grant funding the city will be getting from the federal government as part of the recent COVID-19 Stimulus package. We also discuss local business response to needs like masks and hand sanitizer, and what a local pizzeria did for front-line responders and health care workers.

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Community Spotlight for Apr. 5-12, 2020

Chautauqua County Executive P-J Wendel

April 5th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

Our Terry Frank talks by telephone with Interim County Executive P-J Wendel about the on-going response to the COVID-19 outbreak in the county. Wendel says the numbers for the county seen "low" now (18 by Sunday night). However... he's not sure if that's because only a "small amount" of testing has been done because of a lack of those number. Wendel says he's developed a county map by Fire Battalion Districts to outline where cases have been cropping up. We also discuss the status of his 30-day State of Emergency issued back around Mar. 15. He says Governor Andrew Cuomo's current State of Emergency in the state may supercede that. We do talk about the big response by local companies to help make needed supplies and equipment to help support the response. He says both Southern Tier Distilling and 5-&-20 Distillery are making hand sanitizer, while Jamestown Plastics is helping to make face shields for medical personnel, and first-responders. About two-dozen companies in all are making those items and materials.

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Community Spotlight for Mar. 29-April 4, 2020

Congressman Tom Reed on Coronavirus stimulus bill

March 29th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:05

As part of our continuing coverage of the Coronavirus -- or COVID-19 outbreak, we present portions of local Congressman Tom Reed's special Media call Friday afternoon following the vote on the 2.2-trillion dollar, CARES Act... which includes billions of dollars to help individuals who have lost jobs due to the outbreak, along with large and small employers who have also been impacted. There is also additional funding to support health care and efforts to save people from the pandemic. The program features information on how soon the help will be going out, and what kind of help New York state and local communities will be able to get.

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Community Spotlight for Mar. 22-29, 2020

Chautauqua County Executive Coronavirus Update

March 22nd, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:10

To keep you informed with the latest information on the Coronavirus outbreak in the state and region, this week, we air portions of the Chautauqua County government's latest update on COVID 19. We have segments with county Health and Human Services Commissioner Christine Schuyler, who says (as of Sunday) there are no reported or confirmed cases of the virus in Chautauqua County. We also have comments from Interim County Executive P-J Wendel about what businesses are considered "essential," and can remain open after 8 p.m. Sunday. Those considered "non-essential" will have to have 100-percent of their workers stay home by NYS order. We also have comments about possible remedies in the news. However, he cautions that those have not yet been fully tested, nor approved.

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Coronavirus State of Emergency declaration in Jamestown

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist and Jamestown School Superintdent Bret Apthorpe

March 16th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 18:50

In light of recent developments concerning the Coronavirus -- or COVID 19 Pandemic, we have replaced the usual Community Spotlight program with Monday morning's press conference held by Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist and School Superintendent Bret Apthorpe to inform people about the city's just-issued State of Emergency declaration, which begins tomorrow. If you have further questions, or need assistance, check their websites at jamestownny.net... or jpsny.org.

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Community Spotlight for Mar. 8-15, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

March 8th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:50

This week, our Terry Frank talks with Chautauqua County Interim Executive P.J. Wendel on the topic of the day... the COVID 19 -- or Coronavirus. Wendel says the county has been working closely with the state to deal with a local outbreak -- if there is one. He says they are taking part in daily phone conferences with Governor Andrew Cuomo's office, and Health and Human Services Director Christine Schuyler was in Albany the past week for a manditory meeting with the state's Health Director. We also discuss development with the recent news of an architectural ceiling manufacturer -- Arktura -- announcing they are locating in the former Acu-Rite/Heidenheim building on Airport Hill. We also get an update on the status of getting Essential Air Service back at the County Airport near Jamestown, and the Cockaigne Ski Center,

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Community Spotlight for Mar. 1-8, 2020

St. Susan's Center Executive Director Bonnie Scott-Sleight

March 1st, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:15

For the first time... St. Susan's Center Director Bonnie Scott-Sleight joins our Terry Frank to talk about her first year-and-a-half of heading up the Jamestown-area's largest soup kitchen. She says she appreciates the community support for St. Susan's, especially the fund-raisers they hold to keep the doors open, and serving meals to the needy. She says they're just finished up the two-time, Soup and a Song events, and adds the Holiday Haul put on by Jamestown Arena Director Keith Martin was another major success. Their annual Basket Sale will be held later in March, as well. She adds they also have a special cooking program with the Iron Chef coming in September with more information coming soon.

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Community Spotlight for Feb. 23-Mar.1, 2020

Chautauqua County Office for the Aging Director Mary Ann Spanos

February 23rd, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

This week, our Terry Frank talks with Chautauqua County Office for the Aging Exec. Director Mary Ann Spanos about the OFA, and how funding looks in both President Trump's federal, and Gov. Andrew Cuomo's proposed state budgets. She says the state budget looks good, with the additional 15-million dollars put in last year in again this year. However, she cautions that some smaller funding sources have had cuts to them. She's hoping the state legislature restores those. We also discuss the OFA's waiting list for in-home health care aids, which is down dramatically through the additional funding. However, she says OFA's statewide would need another 19-million to completely eliminate the lists. We also discuss the fact they are available for health insurance counseling for older adults, and seniors... and, they'll be involved in making sure that everyone -- including seniors -- are counted in the 2020 U.S. Census.

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Community Spotlight for Feb. 16-23, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

February 16th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

For the first time since officially taking office, our Terry Frank talks with new Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist about his first 30 to 40 days in office, and how it's gone. Sundquist says they've been challenged by the decision by Alstar EMS to pull out of it's agreement for ambulance service in the city. He says they have now sent out requests for proposals for a new private firm to provide emergency transport, though Alstar will still be available. Sundquist also just recently returned from the 2-and-a-half day New York State Conference of Mayor's Winter Legislative session in Albany. He was part of a small group that lobbied State Senators and Assembly members to increase Arterial Maintenance funding in the 2020-21 budget proposal. The city is still receiving the 220,000 a year it received in 1987.

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Community Spotlight for Feb. 9-16, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

February 9th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

Our Terry Frank talks this week for the first time with Interim Chautauqua County Executive Paul "P.J." Wendel about his first month in office, which he says has been a busy one. He's had to met -- along with other elected officials -- with leaders of Truck-lite about the recent announcement that they will be shutting down the manufacturing part of their plant in Falconer by the end of the year. Wendel says it doesn't appear there will be any changing that decision. However... he says the management will be remaining here. He's more concerned about the closing of TLC/Lakeshore Hospital in Irving... which closed down it's Emergency Department last Sunday with little prior notice. He says the frustrating part of that is they haven't been able to talk with hospital management about it at all. We also discuss his attendance at the recent New York State Association of Counties, and County Executives, in Albany. He says changes to Medicaid, and the new Bail Reform Law were the major topics.

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Community Spotlight for Feb. 2-10, 2020

NY State Senator George Borello

February 2nd, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:15

This week, our Terry Frank talks with State Senator George Borrello about his being named to co-chair a task force seeking testimony about the need to repeal the state's just-enacted Bail Reform Law. The law has eliminated cash bail for a number of non-violent felony and misdemeanor charges. A number of people who have been released so far with just appearance tickets, and have re-offended. Borrello says they hope to shine a light on the problems with witness testimony from law enforcement officials, and victims of re-offenders. Borrello says he and the co-chair of the committee will convene their first hearing this coming Thursday, Feb. 6, at 2 p.m. in Buffalo. He also talks about the Governor's 178-billion dollar budget proposal for fiscal year 2020-2021, and says it really does not address the Medicaid issue, one that's added about 2.5-billion dollars to a projected 6.1-billion dollar deficit for the coming year. He's hoping increased costs will not be up up county governments.

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Community Spotlight for Jan. 26-Feb. 1, 2020

Retiring Prendergast Library Director Tina Scott

January 26th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:45

Retiring director Tina Scott with the James Prendergast Library in Jamestown is our Terry Frank's guest this week, talking about her decision to step aside on Jan. 31, and the library's current fiscal condition. Scott says, while the library is having it's on-going financial issues, she is turning over direction of the library to her top assistant, Annie Green. Green has been managing day-to-day operations for some time now. Scott says, they have been able to get through the past couple of years by using 47, and 40-percent of their endowment funds. However, she says they can't do that long-term. Members of the public will have the chance next May to vote on creating a library tax district to raise a 350,000 dollar local share to replace what the city had been providing many years ago. This year, city lawmakers were able to boost the library's funding from 60,000 to 100,000 dollars. While it's much appreciated, Scott says that's still not enough to leverage state dollars, and meet their budget needs.

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Community Spotlight for Jan. 19-26, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi retrospect Pt.2

January 19th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:45

We conclude our two-part retrospect on the career of Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi, and this week delve more into his 20-years in the position. Teresi discussed accomplishments, but, feels the biggest was getting both Democrats and Republicans to work together to do what was best for the city. He felt the time was right to leave office because the city had dug itself out of the financial hole triggered by the Great Recession of 2007-08, and that most of the projects he had been involved in were completed or nearing completion. He was very busy in December finishing up matters to clear the decks for new Mayor Eddie Sundquist to take office on Jan. 1.

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Community Spotlight for Jan. 13-20, 2020

Part 1 of Retrospect of Mayor Sam Teresi

January 12th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:30

Our Terry Frank this week begins a two-part retrospect on the long-career at City Hall of former Mayor Sam Teresi. It was part of a long, sit down inview conducted by Terry, Post-Journal City Hall Reporter Dennis Philips, and WRFA-FM News and Public Affairs Director, Jason Sample. During that, Teresi discussed working at the Jamestown High School newpaper, and how an issue about locating a new football field took him to City Hall, where he later worked as an intern, head of the Downtown Jamestown Development Corporation, Dept. of Development Grants Writer, and later Director of Development, up to the time he was elected mayor. Part-Two next week will delve more into his 20 years as mayor.

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Community Spotlight for Jan. 5-12, 2020

2019 Year in Review Program

January 5th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:45

This week, News Director Terry Frank and Noel Blackhall host our annual Year in Review program, looking back on the top dozen stories of 2019. This year, politics was the biggest story with a new mayor in Jamestown, a new State Senator and new County Executive were the big stories. We also look at stories regarding economic development, public safety, and school safety.

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Community Spotlight for Dec. 29-Jan. 4, 2019

Jamestown City Councilman Tony Dolce

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

Our Terry Frank does what's become an annual year in review program with Republican Jamestown City Councilman Tony Dolce. They discuss the outcome of the November election, and it's impact on the council. Republican's will have their first majority in many years come Jan. 1. Dolce discusses his choices for committee chairpersons. They are Kim Ecklund for the Finance Committee, Brent Sheldon for Public Safety, and Democrats Tom Nelson for Public Works, and Vickye James for Housing. We also discuss Monday night's rescheduled public hearing on the proposed annexation of the Board of Public Utilties' Dow St. Substation in Falconer into the city. The controversial plan was recently restarted by lawmakers at the end of November. Tonight's public hearing begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Jamestown High School auditorium. The council's scheduled voting session will be at City Hall at 6 p.m. The New Year's Day inauguration will begin at 12 Noon on Jan. 1 at Jamestown Community College's Scharman Theater.

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Community Spotlight for Dec. 22-29, 2019

Representatives of the United Way of Southern Chautauqua County

December 22nd, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:30

This week, our Terry Frank talks with United Way of Southern Chautauqua County Executive Dir. Amy Rohler, and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance -- or VITA -- Coordinator Rose Lancione about the current campaign, and start of the VITA Program in early 2020. Rohler says the campaign is a little behind where they usually are, having raised 73.7-percent of their 1.33-million dollar goal. She says they'll be making their push in the next few weeks. We talk with Rose Lancione about the VITA Program, and their effort to get more lower income residents to take advantage of their free program. Person's who don't deal with depreciation or rental properties, and earn less than 56,000-dollars a year are eligible. Last year... the local VITA Program helped just over 800 people reclaimed just over 900,000 dollars in refunds. For more information on the United Way Campaign, or their VITA Program, call 483-1561, or go on-line to uwayscc.org.

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Community Spotlight for Dec. 17-22, 2019

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi

December 15th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:40

Our Terry Frank sits down with Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi for the final time as mayor on this week's program, and wrap up some "loose ends" before the end of the year. Teresi talks extensively about the reasoning behind the Board of Public Utilities, and city council's decisions to restart the annexation case involving the BPU's Dow Street Substation in Falconer. The city council voted in November, 8-to-1, to start the effort anew. However, once the new city administration takes office, they will have to decide where the process goes after a public hearing is held this week. Teresi says it'll be held at 7 p.m. in the Robert Lee Scharman Theater at Jamestown Community College. Officials from the village of Falconer, town of Ellicott, and Falconer School District have been invited to be part of the hearing, or they could hold their own. We also discuss matters Teresi is taking care of in the final days of his administration, including a charter change for a dual administration post from City Clerk/Dir. of Administrative Services back to City Clerk/Treasurer. We also look back on Teresi's 20 years in office.

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Community Spotlight for Dec. 8-15, 2019

NYS Senator George Borrello

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

This week, our Terry Frank talks with State Senator George Borrello, who was recently seated formally as the newest member of the state legislature's upper chamber. Borrello says it's been a very busy time, signing onto a number of existing bills, and working on new ones. He says he has put in for several committee assignments for the new year, including two that retired Senator Cathy Young was involved with: Finance and Agriculture. Borrello adds that he's also hoping to land on at least a couple more, including Transportation, Economic Development and Small Business, Local Government, and a newer one: Domestic Animal Welfare. He says he would like the state legislature to consider enacting an Animal Abuse Registry, similar to the one enacted while he was Chautauqua County Executive, nearly two years ago.

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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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Keep Informed

Local News

WJTN News Headlines for Oct 29, 2020

Posted Thursday Morning

County legislators approved a 2021 budget that calls for a five-cent per thousand increase in the full value tax rate. Legislator Terry Niebel proposed an amendment that would have kept the tax ...

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