JHS student found with handgun in school bathroom; school to begin new security measures next week...

An 18 year-old student at Jamestown High School was found earlier today in possession of a handgun inside a bathroom between classes.  The startling discovery happened after a JHS school administrator was told about a student heading to the bathroom to vape.  School Superintendent Kevin Whitaker says... upon a search of the student’s backpack... the handgun was found.  Dr. Whitakter says the School Resource Officer later secured the weapon without incident... and, City police were also called in to take the teenager -- identified by city police as Narade Gumbs, Jr. -- into custody.  He's being held pending arraignment on one count of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  Dr. Whitaker adds the student will also face the maximum disciplinary consequences consistent with the district's Code of Conduct.  He says -- "I can tell you that this incident is very impactful for me.  I know that this information may be unsettling to our families and the community as well.  As always, student safety remains our absolute priority and out of an abundance of caution, we are taking additional and immediate steps to support a secure learning environment."  Dr. Whitaker says... beginning next Monday, February 2nd... the high school will begin using weapons detection systems for student entry, as they have done at other district facilities... such as the Tech Academy... and, at football and basketball games.  He says this will involved a new arrival procedure at JHS... and, "we ask that students and parents be understanding of the necessity of getting this new entry process right.  More details and specifics will be shared with high school families over the weekend and we ask for your cooperation and patience in advance."  He says the school will also be offering counseling support for any student or staff who may find themselves affected by this information and who wish to talk to someone.
 

Coldest air temperatures of the Winter reported in Chautauqua County overnight; AAA reports nearly twice the volume of service calls during cold snap and Winter storms...
It was another bitterly cold overnight period across Chautauqua County... with minus-double-digit air temperature readings in some locations.  We have reports of -12 at the Dunkirk Airport... and, in Cassadaga.  The County Airport near Jamestown registered a -4 reading... and, -15 wind chill overnight.  We have another couple of days with highs only in the single numbers and teens before we get back above 20 early next week.
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On a related note... East Central AAA is reporting nearly twice the volume of service calls as usual for this time of year in the wake of last weekend's snowstorms.  AAA says their emergency roadside assistance service has seen a surge in requests related to dead batteries, stuck vehicles, and stranded motorists.  Altogether, officials say they have fielded more than 37,000 service calls across its territory between Saturday and Thursday, which is about 80-percent higher than typical for winter.  AAA Public Affairs Director Jim Garrity says "we implore the public to take precautions in the face of continued bitter cold to avoid an unnecessary roadside breakdown."

Schmidt announces Jamestown man gets five-years in state prison on drug and weapons possession convictions...
A city man will spend the next five-years in state prison... and, five-years post-release supervision... for criminally possessing drugs and weapons.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt has announced that 24 year-old Nylix Thomas of Jamestown, received the determinate sentence Thursday from County Court Judge David Foley.  Thomas pled guilty last November to two counts each of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, third-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  All sentences for each charge are to run concurrently.  Thomas was arrested during a raid at his home just over a year ago by local drug agents... where he was found with cocaine and a loaded pistol.

Niagara Falls man convicted of killing two women whose bodies were found in the town of Portland, now admits to a fourth murder...
A convicted serial killer with ties to northern Chautauqua County has admitted to a fourth homicide in Western New York.  Niagara County District Attorney Brian Seaman has announced that 62 year-old Richard Fox pleaded guilty Thursday morning to a charge of second-degree murder in connection with the January 2023 killing of a 32-year-old woman in Niagara Falls.  Fox is currently serving 40 years to life behind bars for the murder of two women whose remains were found in the town of Portland in September 2021.  Earlier this month, the Brant Police Department announced that Fox admitted to killing his grandmother in 1976.

Olean man arrested for sexual offenses in southern Chautauqua County...
A Cattaraugus County man has been arrested for allegedly paying a minor in southern Chautauqua County for sexually explicit pictures... and, trying to meet the minor several times to engage in sex acts.  Sheriff's officers in Mayville say 25 year-old Kyle Higley of Olean is also accused of doing this... even after being told the person was a minor.  Deputies say their Criminal Investigation Division looked into the matter... and, Wednesday afternoon... Higley turned himself in.  Officers say he's charged with use of a child in a sexual performance -- a Class C Felony.  He was arraigned, and released pending a State Supreme Court appearance. 

Wendel hopeful that pending closing of Heritage Village will keep other Heritage nursing homes viable...
Chautauqua County's top-elected official says the decision by Heritage to soon-close it's skilled nursing and rehabilition center in Gerry is an "intelligent, business decision" that will hopefully keep it's overall operations viable.  County Executive P.J. Wendel made his comments Thursday... adding that he hopes this will preserve the entities' two other locations -- Heritage Green in Greenhurst... and, Heritage Park in Jamestown.  Wendel says the county has been working with Heritage Chief Executive Officer Lisa Haglund the past year to make their operation more responsive to what's going on in the industry.  He says Haglund wanted to have the board more reflect what was best for people in the county, and that would be more responsive.  Long-term... Wendel says getting New York state to boost Medicaid reimbursement rates is the answer.  He says he, and other members of the state Association of Counties have pushed the state to improve those reimbursement numbers.  He says it appears that Heritage has the capacity at it's two other locations to absorb residents and staff. 

Gillibrand calls on Trump to stop tariff threats against allies...
New York's junior U.S. Senator is demanding that President Trump stop illegally threatening tariffs against American allies... including 100% on Canadian goods.  Democrat Kirsten Gillibrand made her comments during a virtual press conference with state-wide media... noting that Mr. Trump would also levy a 25% tariff on South Korean goods... and, earlier this month... threatened a 10% tariff on NATO countries unless the U.S. is given Greenland.  Gillibrand says... since taking office... Mr. Trump has slapped tariffs on some 90 countries doing business with the United States, and that's increased the costs to New Yorkers by $4,200 in 2025 alone.  Gillibrand says the president's threats are "reckless and haphazard..." and, "working New Yorkers and small businesses are paying the price."  She says... not only will New Yorkers pay more for goods and services from Canada... but, reciprocating tariffs could threaten U.S. exports.

Olean man arrested for allegedly paying a minor sexually explicit pictures, and attempting to meet several times for sex in southern Chautauqua Co....
A Cattaraugus County man has been arrested for allegedly paying a minor in southern Chautauqua County for sexually explicit pictures... and, trying to meet the minor several times to engage in sex acts.  Sheriff's officers in Mayville say 25 year-old Kyle Higley of Olean is also accused of doing this... even after being told the person was a minor.  Deputies say their Criminal Investigation Division looked into the matter... and, Wednesday afternoon... Higley turned himself in.  Officers say he's charged with use of a child in a sexual performance -- a Class C Felony.  He was arraigned, and released pending a State Supreme Court appearance.  The Sheriff's Office say it -- "remains committed to protecting children from online exploitation, and to holding offenders accountable.  Working closely with our local, state, and federal partners, the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office is utilizing advanced technology and any other available investigative resource to identify, track, and arrest those who target children."

City man arrested for allegedly stealing $9,000 worth of Iphone packages at FedEx hub at County Airport...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly stealing $9,000 worth of Apple Iphone packages from the FedEx hub at the county airport in the town of Ellicott.  Town Police say they responded to a complaint from the location back on Jan. 15... and, their investigation led to the arrest of 45 year-old Carlos Cabral.  Cabral was charged with third-degree Grand Larceny... and he was processed and released with an appearance ticket for Ellicott Town Court at a later date.  

Seven people arrested for alleged drug and weapons possession at Euclid Ave. apartment in Jamestown...
Seven people have been arrested on various drug and weapons possession charges following a raid on an apartment on Jamestown's northside early Tuesday morning.  City police say members of the Jamestown Metro... and, Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Forces executed a search warrant at 28 Euclid Ave. shortly after Midnight with the help of the JPD SWAT Team.  Inside the apartment... they found 20 year-old Jeremy Thompson, Junior of Buffalo... and, 37 year-old Mikki Pierce of Warren, Pa., along with five others from Jamestown.  They include: 61 year-old Russell Rea, Junior... 33 year-old Dylan Abbey... 48 year-old Tonya Earley... 43 year-old Crystal Reid... and, 41 year-old Jonathan Mays.  Once they secured the residence... detectives searched and found just over 4-thousand dollars in cash... 21.5 grams of crack-cocaine... 41.5 grams of Fentanyl... 38.5 grams of methamphetamine... one Alprazolam... four clonazepam... and, four hydrocodone pills... a subxone strip... dilutants for drugs... packaging materials for drugs... digital scales... and, a loaded 9-mm handgun.  The seven suspects were taken to the city jail... pending arraignment on various charges including:  second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, third, fourth, fifth and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  They also face drug paraphernalia counts... and, Thompson is also charged with tampering with physical evidence.  If you have any information on suspicious or drug-related activity in your area... call the JPD Tip line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477... or the Sheriff's Department Tip line at 1-800-344-8702 or 664-2420.

County Legislature refers new Democrat proposed "affordability" measures, and legislative rules change to committees...
A measure introduced by minority Democrats on the Chautauqua County Legislature, they say, would make the county more affordable have been referred to legislative committees.  Lawmakers in Mayville last night voted 11-7 along party lines to have the "Affordability Act" go before the proper committees before coming back to the full panel.  Republican Majority Leader Jamie Gustafson made the motion to send the proposal to committee.... saying it's "not an emergency resolution, and the impact on the county taxpayers should be well throught-out before any action is taken on this."  Earlier... Minority Leader Robert Bankowski of Dunkirk... who co-sponsored the measure... said it would use $2-million of the county's undesignated fund balance to further lower property taxes.  Bankowski adds it also calls for lowering the county's sales tax by one-quarter of a percent.  A separate measure would raise the Senior Real Property Tax Exemption threshold from $30,000 to $38,000.  In a press release Thursday morning... Gustafson says that exemption was raised by the legislature back in 2024.  That was also referred to committee by an 11-7 vote.  She says lawmakers need to further review the impact of these measures before "acting on them responsibly.  
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The legislature also referred to committee a measure that would more limit the second "privilege of the floor" to comments -- after agenda items have been acted on -- pertaining mainly county matters. 

Village of Cassadaga announces mayoral appointments...
The mayor of Cassadaga Mayor Rudy Abersold has made two new additions to the village government.  During Wednesday's Village Board meeting... Rudy Abersold swore-in retired north county newsman Dave Rowley as a new trustee. Rowley, who previously served on the village's Planning Board, fills the vacancy left by Bill Astry, who resigned earlier this month.  In addition... Randy Carlson was also sworn in to take Rowley's seat on the Planning Board.  Rowley retired, not long ago, as News Director at WDOE Radio in Dunkirk.  In a Facebook post, Abersold said both men "bring a plethora of knowledge to our team."
 

Heritage announces closing of Heritage Village in Gerry... nearly 40 residents to be moved to other facilities at The Green and Park...
A rehabilitation and skilled nursing facility that's one of three operated by Heritage in the Jamestown-area will be closing it's doors due to "ongoing financial and operational challenges facing the long-term care industry."  Media One News had heard earlier in the week that officials had been notifying families about the likely closing of Heritage Village in Gerry.  In a press release issued Wednesday morning... Heritage's Chief Executive Officer, Lisa Haglund, said like many nursing homes across the state -- "Heritage Village has operated at a significantly reduced census since the COVID-19 pandemic, serving fewer than 40 residents.  Despite continued efforts to sustain operations, the organization determined that maintaining services at the location is no longer financially viable."  She called it a "very difficult but necessary decision.  Closing Heritage Village allows us to focus our limited staffing, financial resources, and operational support on our remaining skilled nursing communities – Heritage Park and Heritage Green – so that we can continue to provide high-quality care in Chautauqua County."  Haglund also noted that Heritage’s leadership team has worked closely with its local board on a long-term strategic plan to stabilize operations and preserve access to skilled nursing services in the region.  No closing date was announced.

JPD asking public's help in finding missing city man...
Jamestown police are asking for the public's help in find a city man reported missing Tuesday.  Police say they are trying to locate 59-year-old Darin Bigelow... who is described as a white male... about 5"11' tall... 165 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes.  Anyone with information about Bigelow's whereabouts is asked to contact call JPD at 483-7536 or the Tip Line at 483-8477.

City Council approves $350,000 JLDC Loan to Jade Empire for Prendergast Landing project...
City lawmakers have approved a 350-thousand dollar, Jamestown Local Development Corporation loan to provide "bridge funding" for the $2.2-million Prendergast Landing project on the city's westside.  Jade Empire, LLC is proposing the mixed-use project for the former Joyce's Keg Room building at 106-108 Fairmount Avenue.  City Development Director Crystal Surdyk says Jade's Chief Executive Officer, Rashaan Graham has everything else in place... and, this will help complete the project.  Surdyk says some state funding for the project could be delayed, and this will help to "bridge" that gap.  Surdyk says the first floor of the three-story building will have two purposes... the first being a "cafe" and small business incubator... and the other for outfitters -- catering to skateboarders and kayakers in that area.  She says the second-floor will include smaller, "co-working space" for people looking for work space they don't have space for at home.  Surdyk says the third-floor will have three, short-term "AirBnB" type living spaces.  The City Council is required to vote on any JLDC loan of $100,000 or more.  The loan was approved by council 7-1 with At-Large Councilman Dan Gonzales casting the lone "no" vote.

County's Industrial Development Agency approves 10 year PILOT agreement with Wavepoint for expanded operations in the north county...
The Chautauqua County Industrial Development Agencys' board has approved financial incentives for the expansion of a local food distribution company... assisting with the acquisition of property in the town of Sheridan.  Deputy County Executive for Economic Development, Mark Geise, says Wavepoint plans to acquire and upgrade a just-over 121,000 square foot existing warehouse and logistics hub on Chadwick Drive to improve and expand its operations.  In addition... he says Wavepoint -- which is headquartered in North East, Pa. -- has purchased an option on adjoining land to potentially expand the facility to take advantage of its rail access.  Geise says Wavepoint has currently has local operations in the village of Fredonia... and, the Chadwick Bay Industrial Park in the Town of Sheridan.  He says company officials noted that the acquisition will not affect their operations in Fredonia... but, will support it's growth.  The total project cost is about $6-million... and, will increase Wavepoint's local employment from 64 to 84.  The company will make Payment In Lieu of Tax payments over 10 years of about $860,000.

United Way of Chuatauqua County makes and exceeds it's $1.7-million goal...
It was a "united effort" that helped the United Way of Chautauqua County not only met -- but, exceed it's 2025 General Campaign goal.  Campaign leaders and others gathered at The Chop House in downtown Jamestown to celebrate last night.  Campaign Co-Chairs Andy and Lisa Goodell announced they had raised $1.766-million... or about $66,000 more than their goal.  Andy Goodell says they got some new donors... and, some others boosted their giving.  Those boosting their employee giving to 100% were Chautauqua Chemicals, and the Chautauqua Federal Credit Union.  He adds others also came through big... including Refresco, and Purina in the north county.  Goodell also praised the more than 200 volunteers who helped the campaign by helping to get those donors... and, make a record number of workplace presentations.  United Way Executive Director Amy Rohler expressed much appreciation to the Goodell's for their work during the campaign celebration at The Chop House in Jamestown. 

Fire damages town of Portland mobile home, no injuries reported...
Firefighters from a handful of departments were called to the scene of a trailer home fire early Tuesday morning in the town of Portland.  County emergency dispatchers say Portland crews were called to the scene at 7620 Felton Rd. about 6 a.m., with mutual aid called in from Brocton... Ellery Center... Sherman... North Lake... and, Westfield.  Crews finished at the scene shortly before Noon.  No injuries were reported.  Fire investigators were also called to the scene to look for the cause.

City Council approves hiring five new firefighters, city begins search for new Police Chief...
The Jamestown City Council has approved moving ahead with the hiring of five new police officers to fill vacancies... including some by retirement.  That from Mayor Kim Ecklund... who says preliminary interviews have been held with some candidates from the Sheriff's Academy at Jamestown Community College.  Ecklund hopes they're able to fill a least a few open slots.  She says five people have been interviewed, but, she says other departments are also looking for officers right now, too.  Ecklund says one of the retirements is Chief Tim Jackson... whose last day is next Wednesday, Feb. 4.  The mayor says the process to replace the chief is just getting underway... first by gauging interest within the department itself because they have "some good internal candidates."  She says they'll look at that and see what kind of interest there is.  Ecklund says... because the chief gives notification of retirement within 30-days... she will likely name an interim chief.  She says they're also looking as possibily 2 more retirements later this year.  Ecklund announced Jackson's retirement last week after more than 25 years with the department... just over five of those as Chief and Director of Public Safety.    

New BPU GM announces two promotions at city-owned utility...
The Jamestown Board of Public Utilities has announced two leadership promotions during it's first meeting of the new year.  General Manager Kris Sellstrom says Cory Allen has been appointed to the position of BPU Deputy General Manager for the Electric Division... filling the job vacated by Sellstrom when he was promoted to GM.  Sellstrom says Allen joined the BPU in 2011 as a Junior
Electrical Engineer and advanced through increasing levels of responsibility, including Electrical Engineer and Power Plant Manager.  In addition... Sellstrom says Aaron Mason has been named Power Plant Manager, assuming the duties Allen held before his promotion.  He says Mason was first hired as a mechanical engineer in 1999... and, was closely involved in the installation and commissioning of the BPU's Gas Turbine.  He will now manage the Carlson Generating Station. 

Schmidt discusses specifics on indictment against former Dunkirk City Treasurer...
A lengthy investigation into the city of Dunkirk's finances led to the 14-count indictment... and, arrest of it's former treasurer.  New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli and Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt announced late last week that Mark Woods has been indicted for allegedly stealing more than $120,000 from the city between April 2022 and January 2025 and covering up the theft by falsifying city records.  Schmidt says the investigation began in March of last year when Dunkirk School District officials saw irregularities in tax payments.  He says the amounts matched... but, a closer look found the amounts were "sitting on" garbage payments, water payments, and city of Dunkirk tax payments.  Schmidt says that's when Mayor Kate Wdowiasz was notified, and she referred the matter to Schmidt.  Investigators from the District Attorney's Office and State Comptroller's Office then closed the Treasurer's Office to seize records related to Woods' alleged crimes.  Schmidt says Woods is accused of participating in a scheme called "check for cash substitution..." and depositing a one-percent tax on utilities to replace what he took.  A forensic analysis of Woods' finances revealed that he allegedly withdrew substantial amounts of cash which he used to gamble. He's charged with second-degree grand larceny as public corruption... first-degree corrupting the government... and, 12 counts of first-degree offering a false instrument for filing.  

NYSSBA representative says School Board's group feels Hochul's budget is a "good starting point" for discussions on school aid...
School aid in Governor Kathy Hochul's proposed 2026-27 New York State budget is a "good starting point" for negotiations on the $260-billion spending plan.  An official with the New York State School Boards Association adds they are "relatively pleased" with the $39.3-billion proposal.  NYSSBA's Chief Advocacy Officer... Brian Fessler... says that just over $1-billion more than the current year's amount.  While Hochul says she's "fully funding" Foundation Aid... Fessler says NYSSBA still wants an updated funding formula, because the current one is 20 years old, and has become "antiquated."  He says they're also still reviewing the governor's proposed expansion of Universal Pre-K programs... which is receiving more aid as well.  While the School Board's Association likes the proposed increase in Foundation Aid... they would like to have the nearly 700 public school districts receive an across-the-board 2% bump in that aid.  He says about 450 would only see a 1% increase under the governor's plan.

Winter Storm Warning dropped for county... but, travel advisory continues with cold air to stay for "foreseeable future..."
The immediate Jamestown-area received the most amount of snow from Winter Storm "Fern" of any other location in the Western New York region.  The National Weather Service in Buffalo reported last night that the area had received 11 inches of the white stuff... with about another inch overnight.  The snow has stopped... and, the area is still digging out from the relentless snow.  A county-wide Travel Advisory remains in effect... but, the Winter Storm Warning has been discontinued.  Even so... the bitterly cold temperatures we've had will be with us for the "foreseeable future."  Weather Service Forecaster Steve Welch says we have a "Cold Weather Advisory" in effect... with bitter cold temperatures for "at least the next week" or so.  Travel caution is strongly advised... as roads remain snow-covered and slippery.  For the most part... all area schools closed for today.  We have a number of organizational and government closings for today.  They include: The Lakewood and Celoron Village Halls.  The Lakewood Village Board has postponed their meeting tonight until Feb. 9.  The town of Busti has also closed it's offices.  Chautauqua Works is closed today in both Jamestown and Dunkirk.  The Options Care Center is closed today... along with Infinity Visual and Performing Arts... and, the Ashville Food Pantry will be closed tomorrow.  For a complete listing of closings and cancellations... go to our website at mediaonegroupradio.com.

Borrello and Molitor resume push for full State Control Board for city of Dunkirk after announcement of indictment against former city treasurer for misappropriating $120,000...
Chautauqua County's two state legislators are renewing their push for a formal State Control Board for the city of Dunkirk after it's former treasurer was arrested for misappropriating $120,000.  The State Attorney General's Office also alleges that Mark Woods falsified city business records to cover it up the theft.  Woods was indicted late last week... and, County Executive P.J. Wendel said the arrest -- "exposes years of mismanagement and wrongdoing that were repeatedly swept under the rug..." and, that the allegations are "shocking, unacceptable, and a betrayal of public trust."  State Senator George Borrello and Assemblyman Andrew Molitor issued a joint statement about Wood's arrest... saying it's -- "deeply troubling and profoundly disappointing.  Taxpayers expect and deserve honesty, integrity, and professionalism from those tasked with managing their hard-earned money.  To learn that someone in such a position of trust allegedly abused that responsibility for personal gain is a betrayal of the public and a stain on our local government.  That is why we continue to believe that a state financial control board is not only warranted, but necessary."

County's three DMV offices to close for state-wide system upgrades Feb. 13-18...
Chautauqua County's three Department of Motor Vehicles offices will be temporarily closed on Feb. 13 as New York State implements a new, modernized DMV system.  Clerk Greg Carlson says the new DRIVES system is "an important step toward improving the overall DMV experience for our residents.  By preparing in advance and allowing time for a smooth transition, we can help ensure our customers receive more efficient and reliable service when our offices reopen."  Carlson says the Jamestown, Dunkirk and Mayville DMV offices will close on Feb. 13, and, reopen on Wednesday, Feb. 18 for it's usual hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  The DMV offices would normally not be open on Monday, Feb. 16t, for the Presidents Day holiday.  Carlson says the DRIVES system replaces decades-old technology used by the state DMV and is designed to improve customer service by streamlining transactions, enhancing security, and allowing DMV staff to process services more efficiently within a single, modern platform.  For more information... go on-line to: chautauquacountyny.gov/county-clerk/Department-of-Motor-Vehicles.

City teen arrested for alleged sex crimes with a minor...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested on several Felony sex crimes after allegeldy being found in possession of... and, distributing child pornography.  State Police in Jamestown say they arrested 18 year-old Benjamin Christ following an investigation by their Bureau of Criminal Investigation... and, Troop "A" Computer Crimes Unit.  Troopers say they also found that Christ was pictured with a child under the age of 11... and other arrests were made after the child was identified.  State Police charged him with first-degree rape... predatory sexual assault against a child... first-degree sex abuse... promoting a sexual performance by a child... possessing a sexual performance by a child... and, endangering the welfare of a child .  Police say Christ was processed and taken to the Chautauqua County Jail pending centralized arraignment.  The District Attorney's Office also assisted in the investigation.

Warren, Pa. man arrested for hitting man on an E-Scooter, then trying to cover it up...
A man from Warren, Pennsylvania is jailed on 150-thousand dollars bail after allegedly hitting and killing a man on an E-Scooter with his pick-up truck... then trying to conceal the crime.  Warren City Police say there were initially called to the scene about 5:30 p.m. last Monday on a report of a car-pedestrian accident.  Officers say witnesses told them that a black-colored truck had struck the scooter, then immediately fled the area.  They add the investigation also showed that 22 year-old Cyrus Sears allegedly grabbed the scooter from underneath his truck, and put it under a closed tonneau cover in the back of the vehicle.  Officers say the 57 year-old pedestrian died at the scene.  Sears was later found at his home... and, arrested on charges including:  Accidents involving death... tampering with or fabricating physical evidence... and, accidents involving damage to attended vehicle or property.
 

Get ready for a day of exploration and fun as the annual Doors Open Jamestown event returns to Chautauqua County! This beloved local tradition invites residents to dive into their community for free, offering access to various museums and attractions that often go unnoticed. Happening on Saturday, January 24, from 10 AM to 4 PM, it's the perfect opportunity to embrace the winter chill while discovering what your town has to offer.

This year's event features an exciting twist with an online scavenger hunt, encouraging participants to gather answers at each venue for a chance to win fabulous prizes. Organizers, including Daniel Heitzenrater, the President and CEO of the Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce, are enthusiastic about showcasing local culture and businesses, making it a fantastic way for residents to support their community.

Katie Finch, Visitor Experience Director at the Audubon Community Nature Center, adds another layer of excitement, stating that visitors won't need pre-registration or proof of residence—everyone is welcome to join in on the fun! With a cold snap in the air, bundling up and taking a family outing to local sites might just turn into a highlight of the winter season. After all, what better way to shake off the winter blues than with a little local adventure?

As temperatures plunge, the region gears up for a significant winter storm, with plow crews ramping up preparation to keep our roads safe. From Chautauqua County all the way to Warren, municipalities are checking their trucks, equipment, and salt supplies, ensuring they're ready for whatever Mother Nature throws at us this weekend.

Warren’s Department of Public Works Superintendent Joe Reinke is feeling optimistic—at least about salt supplies. He assures residents that they’ll have plenty to go around, but he's also realistic about the potential logistical challenges that come with delivering it during a storm. Long gone are the days when salt shortages caught cities off guard, thanks to lessons learned from the past winter.

Chautauqua County’s officials are taking things a step further, highlighting just how much coordination goes on before and during a storm. County Director of Public Facilities Tim Card reminds us that mechanics work behind the scenes to keep vehicles operational, vital when the snow starts falling.

Drivers are also being called to action, urged to slow down and give plow crews plenty of space. After all, nobody wants to get caught up in a fender bender because they were too eager to rush past a plow. Winter's here, so take it slow, stay safe, and let's hope no one finds themselves in a snowball fight on the way home!

NYS under State of Emergency in anticipation of huge Winter storm coming...
All of New York state has been put under a State of Emergency in anticpation of the massive winter storm that's moving into the northeast.... including the Jamestown area.  Gov. Kathy Hochul made the announcement late this morning.  The system known as Winter Storm "Fern" is expected to bring bitterly cold temperatures... as we go through the weekend... and, plenty of snowfall.  Forecaster Jim Mitchell with the National Weather Service in Buffalo says we're getting a significant shot of cold air today from an arctic boundary that will sweep through.  The local temperature fell to about 0 by 4 p.m... and here at our Media One studios... it was -2 at 5 p.m., and, wind chills will drop to -20 to -25 into Saturday morning.  Overnight tonight and into tomorrow morning... the air temperature is expected to be -4 or -5.  With that... a Cold Weather Advisory is now in effect for the western Southern Tier from 1 p.m. today until 10 a.m. Monday... and, gnerally wind chills are expected to reach -20.  Meanwhile, Mitchell says the chances of significant snow continue to go up for Western New York... since it's going to be a more generalized and widespread snow which has a heavier water content.  The increased likelihood of heavy snow has led to the National Weather Service issuing a Winter Storm Warning from 1 a.m. Sunday to 7 p.m. Monday.

JPS issues early dismissal, cancellation of afterschool activities...
Due to those bitterly cold temperatures... the Jamestown Public Schools dismissed at 12:15 this afternoon in anticipation of those single-digit temperatures and dangerous wind-chill.  Officials say "grab and go" lunches will be available for students who are assigned lunch after noon.  There will be no afternoon BOCES... and no afterschool activities.  The majority of students in the district walk to their school.

City woman arrested after three children found living in deplorable conditions...
A woman from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly allowing her children to live in deplorable conditions at a home on the city's northside.  Jamestown police say they responded to a report of three children... under the age of 17... living in those conditions shortly after 5 p.m.  Thursday.  Officers say they conducted a well-being check on the home... and, found feces, trash and other rubbish strewn about the residence.  Police arrested the mother... 35 year-old Serina Penhollow... without incident.  She was jailed pending arraignment on three counts of endangering the welfare of a child.

Molitor says Hochul's proposed, 2026-27 budget spends too much, and doesn't deal with "out-year" deficit projections of more than $27-billion dollars...
New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli says... while her budget proposals are "commendable..." Governor Kathy Hochul's new spending plan ignores long-term fiscal challenges.  DiNapoli adds that the $260-billion budget includes spending growth that remains above inflation... and, the state's economy, and finances continue to be disrupted by Washington.  DiNapoli says the state's out-year budget gaps are estimated to be $27.5-billion dollars... and, State Assemblyman Andrew Molitor says he's concerned future generations will be saddled with that.  Molitor says he believes a lot of the additional spending is being driven by "certain socialist programs" in New York City... which will hurt people here.  The Westfield Republican is a member of the Assembly's Ways and Means Committee... and, says he wants to get a closer look at the governor's proposal to boost school aid to $39.3-billion... which he believes is only second to Medicaid spending.  State legislative committees will begin budget hearings next week.

CHQ Chamber to host 22nd "Doors Open: Jamestown" tomorrow...
For the 22nd year... "Doors Open" Jamestown will take place in and around the city tomorrow... providing the opportunity for people from the area to see and experience what tourists see.  The CHQ Chamber of Commerce is hosting the event... which will feature nearly 20 venues with free admission all day.  However... some of them do require tickets through advanced registration... and, may have some additional restrictions.  Among the organizations taking part are:  The Audubon Community Nature Center on Riverside Road... the Chautauqua Sports Hall of Fame on West Third Street... the Chautauqua Youth Symphony... the CHQ Chamber and Visitor Information Center on North Main Street... the Fenton History Center... Infinity Visual and Performing Arts... the James Prendergast Library... Lucile M. Wright Air Museum on West Third Street... the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum... the Martz-Kohl Observatory near Frewsburg... Marvin Community House... the National Comedy Center... Northwest Arena... the Partridge-Sheldon House by Jamestown DAR... Pearl City Clay House... Reg Lenna Center for The Arts... the Robert H. Jackson Center... Roger Tory Peterson Institute... and, Sukanya Burman Dance studio on East Second Street.  See their their websites for details. The chamber will also hold it's on-line scavenger hunt... and, participating attractions are donating merchandise which will be assembled into three prize baskets... and everyone attending Doors Open are encouraged to play.  You can pre-register at the chamber's website... or at participating businesses on Saturday morning.  A number of local businesses are also participating in the online Doors Open pass including the Chautauqua Art Gallery... DoubleTree by Hilton... and, Wicked Warren’s.

More watches and weather alerts out as huge cold air mass moves from Midwest in the lower northeastern U.S....
The coldest temperatures of the new year will be with us starting tonight... and, will really drop over the coming weekend.  That from the National Weather Service in Buffalo... which reports temperatures reached the upper 20s this afternoon before falling to the single digits later tonight.  Forecaster Liz Jurkowski in Buffalo says we'll still see some snow through Friday from the current weather pattern.  A Cold Weather Advisory is now in effect for the western Southern Tier from 1 p.m. Friday until 10 a.m. Monday, with wind chills expected to bottom out at -20.  There is also a Winter Weather Advisory in effect until 1 p.m. Friday.  Jurkowski says Friday evening is when the really frigid temperatures from a huge cold air mass moving in from the Midwest will take hold... and temperatures will fall to about -4... with wind chills about -20.  She says it'll be a little bit warmer near the Lake Erie shoreline.  The weather service has also issued a Winter Storm Watch from 1 a.m. Sunday... through 7 p.m. Monday.  Highs Saturday through Monday will be in the mid-teens with overnight lows in the single numbers.  The Jamestown-area got a combination of some sleet and gropel late last night... as well as a couple of claps of "Thundersnow."

Fire heavily-damages Hensa Stamping company facility in Corry, Pa.  Fire crews on scene overnight...
Fire has heavily-damaged a metal fabricating and stamping factory in Corry, Pennsylvania... not far from the Chautauqua County line.  Erie News Now reports firefighters from Corry and the surrounding region were called to Hensa Stamping at 9 Pennsylvania Ave. about 4 p.m. for a fully-engulfed structure fire.  Black smoke and fire could be seen around the area... as firefighters battled the flames and the elements into the night.  Clymer and Panama fire crews from Chautauqua County were called in to assist.  No injuries were reported... and, no cause has been determined.  Hensa stamping is the former Chase Manufacturing Company... and, has been in existance for about 40-years.  

Dunkirk Police identify man killed in train-car crash at CSX crossing...
Dunkirk Police have now identified a 77-year-old man as the victim of Tuesday's fatal, vehicle-train accident in the north county city.  Adolph Herdzik, Jr. succumbed to his injuries at Brooks Memorial Hospital after the car he was driving got struck at the CSX crossing on Middle Road.  The tragedy occurred during a period of whiteout conditions in the north county.  The investigation into the crash is continuing.  

Fredonia fire officials hold press conference -- debriefing on response to vehicle pile-ups on State Thruway near Dunkirk-Fredonia Exit...
Fredonia's Fire Chief says a "large, complex" response to this week's multi-vehicle wreckage along a six-mile stretch of I-90 in northern Chautauqua County went "extremely well" during a period of intense snowfall.  During a press conference Wednesday afternoon... Joshua Myers said multiple people were injured, but added that he is grateful there were no life-threatening injuries in the incident that involved about 60 vehicles.  Myers says the "system worked as it was designed to do..." as first responders operated in extreme weather conditions.  He says they focused first on getting people out of their vehicles safely, and treated for whatever injuries they had.  Fredonia Fire Captain Dan Aldrich was among the first responders at the scene of what he called an "extraordinary event..." because they never had to use a hurst tool to free anyone.  Aldrich adds he was most pleased to see many of the people involved helping out others.  State Police Troop T said multiple vehicle and traffic citations were issued following the crashes on Tuesday.  Myers says the cause of the incident remains under investigation.

City man arrested following domestic incident, and DWI accident...
A man from Jamestown faces several charges following a domestic incident... and, leaving the scene of an alleged drunk driving accident in the city.  Jamestown police say they were called to a westside address about 2 a.m. Thursday morning for a reported "in-progress" domestic incident involving multiple people.  Officers accuse 25 year-old Xavier Williams of violating an order of protection... and, holding another person against their will... and fighting with a third-person.  Police add that Williams had initially left the scene after admittedly driving his vehicle into a utility pole in the city.  He was arrested for first-degree criminal contempt... second-degree endangering the welfare of an incompetent/or physically disabled person... second-degree unlawful imprisonment, and harassment... leaving the scene of a property damage accident... and DWI.  Police add that Williams became "extremely disorderly" during the arrest... but, was taken to the city jail pending arraignment without further incident.

North county woman arrested for sexual offense in connection with relationship with a 15 year-old...
A north county woman has been arrested for allegedly engaging in a sexual relationship with a 15 year-old... and, giving the teen indecent material.  Sheriff's officers say their Criminal Investigation Division was recently made aware of an alleged sex offense.  Deputies say further investigation led to the arrest of 21 year-old Melody Snyder-Pratt of Fredonia at her home.  They determined that Snyder-Pratt had allegedly engaged the relationship with the 15 year-old for a period of time.  In addition... officers say she allegedly propositioned the victim to meet and engage in sexual acts.  She is charged with first-degree disseminating indecent material to a minor in the First Degree in the Chautauqua County Supreme Court at a later date.

Westbound lanes of NYS Thruway back open this morning after multiple accidents involving 60 vehicles litter the highway near Dunkirk...
A six-mile stretch of the westbound lanes of the New York State Thruway near Dunkirk... which were closed after several crashes Tuesday... has now been reopened.  That from State Police... who say the accidents began occuring shortly before 1 p.m. in white-out conditions... and, involved a total of about 60 vehicles.  Troopers now say that two people were hurt... and, sent to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.  State Police say all westbound traffic between Exit 59 and Exit 60 was blocked by an initial, multi-vehicle accident... and there were additional lane closures in the area due to several nearby accidents involving multiple jack-knifed tractor trailers and passenger vehicles.  The lake effect snow that piled up also left about 40 people stranded at the Angola Service area on the Thruway yesterday.  A travel advisory remains in effect in the city of Dunkirk... but, the others in the surrounding area have been lifted.  In the immediate Jamestown-area, residents had to deal with bitterly cold temperatures, but, it was sunny most of the day.

One person killed in train-car crash in Dunkirk... 
Meanwhile, one person died after a vehicle got struck by a train at the CSX crossing on Middle Road in the city of Dunkirk.  Dunkirk Police, Dunkirk firefighters, and Alstar Ambulance were called to the scene about 1:30 p.m. Tuesday.  Police say the driver of the vehicle was taken to Brooks Memorial Hospital, where they later died.  The identity of the victim is being withheld at this time, pending notification of next of kin. 

Hochul outlines proposed 2026-27, $260-billion, NYS budget proposal...
New York Governor Kathy Hochul is proposing a 2026-27 budget that totals roughly $260-billion... or about $6-billion more than the current years spending plan.  The governor made her presentation in Albany Tuesday afternoon... and, says it reflects many of the initiatives in her State of the State Address.  Hochul says revenues the past year came in much better than expected... and that should offset increased costs... and, major cuts -- totaling $10.3-billion -- in federal aid.  Hochul says the biggest savings found were in administration of the state's Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program -- or CDPAP -- which is a Medicaid program empowering eligible individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities to hire, train, and manage their own paid caregivers... which she says was frought with waste and abuse.  She says "we put the program on the path to long term fiscal stability" -- after finding $1.2-billion in savings.  Hochul adds that her budget includes no increase in the state's income tax... but, keeps the corporate rate at 7.5% because of Wall Street bonuses... and, that helps the state's bottom line.  As for Universal Child Care... Hochul is proposing to invest an additional $4.5-billion to expand access and cut costs."  She says she can fund the expansion because the "revenue is there."  She's also proposing a 4.3% increase in state School Aid.

Sex offender arrested in Fredonia...
A north county woman has been arrested for allegedly engaging in a sexual relationship with a 15 year-old... and, giving the teen indecent material.  Sheriff's officers say their Criminal Investigation Division was recently made aware of an alleged sex offense.  Deputies say further investigation led to the arrest of 21 year-old Melody Snyder-Pratt of Fredonia at her home.  They determined that Snyder-Pratt had allegedly engaged the relationship with the 15 year-old for a period of time.  In addition... officers say she allegedly propositioned the victim to meet and engage in sexual acts.  She is charged with first-degree disseminating indecent material to a minor in the First Degree in the Chautauqua County Supreme Court at a later date.

Jamestown man arrested for stealing steaks from northside business...
A city man has been arrested for allegedly stealing two steaks from a business on Jamestown's northside Tuesday morning.  City police were called to the unidentified location shortly before 8 a.m. on a report of a shoplifting.  Officers say store employees told them that a man -- later identified as 37-year-old Joshua Ross -- had taken the steaks without paying for them.  Police found him a short distance away... and, he was arrested for petty larceny.  Ross was arraigned and released on his own recognizance with an appearance ticket for city court.

City man faces drug-related charges following vehicle stop on Jamestown's northside...
A Jamestown man faces multiple drug-related charges following a recent traffic stop in the city's downtown area.  Jamestown police say they stopped the vehicle for observed traffic infractions in the area of East Second and North Main Street about 7:30 p.m. last Thursday.  Officers say the man inside... 20 year-old Samuel Arrington, Jr.... was in possession of a quantity of cocaine.  They say Arrington was taken into custody... and, taken to the city jail without incident.  Police say a search of Arrington's person was conducted there... and, officers allegedly found another 28-grams of Fenatnyl individually packaged.  He was charged with third, fourth-and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Arrington was held pending arraignment in City Court.   

Sun, but, bitter cold temperatures in Jamestown-area Tuesday, lake effect snow and blowing snow in north county area.  
Bitterly cold temperatures -- and even colder wind chills -- greeted Jamestown-area residents this morning.  In fact... the sub-zero wind chills led several school districts to cancel classes today... giving students a fourth-day off in a row after Monday's Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday.  Most, though, were in the north county... which is being hit by bitter cold, lake effect snow... and, blowing and drifting snow.  There are travel advisories in both the Dunkirk and Fredonia areas.  Jamestown... which has a significant number of walkers... called off classes about mid-evening Monday.  There's expected to be more in the way of snow and blowing snow along the Chautauqua Ridge area.  That from Forecaster John Rozbicki with the National Weather Service in Buffalo... who says wind chills today will be about 15-degrees below zero.  Driving caution is advised.  We'll still see some snow on Wednesday... but, temperatures are expected to moderate more... and, get back close to the freezing mark. 

JPD Chief, Dir. of Public Safety -- Tim Jackson -- to retire in early February...
The man who has served as the city of Jamestown's Police Chief and Public Safety Director will be retiring early next month.  Mayor Kim Ecklund late this morning... announced that Chief Timothy Jackson will conclude his more than 25 years of "dedicated service" to the department on Wed., Feb. 4.  Ecklund says Jackson began his career with the Jamestown Police Department on May 1st of 2000... when he was appointed as a patrolman.  She adds that Jackson advanced through the ranks.. becoming a sergeant in January of 2008... a lieutenant in 2010... and, ultimately Chief of Police and Director of Public Safety on Nov. 30 of 2020.  Ecklund says throughout his time with JPD... "Chief Jackson served the city of Jamestown with integrity, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to public safety.  Prior to becoming Chief, he made significant contributions to the Kendall Club, where he served as President, and distinguished himself as an exceptional member of the SWAT Team."  Ecklund adds that -- "Chief Jackson dedicated his life to serving this community with integrity, humility, and compassion.  His leadership strengthened the Jamestown Police Department and built trust throughout our city.  We are deeply grateful for his years of service and wish him a well-earned and fulfilling retirement."

County's Office for Aging Services urges precautions for seniors and caregivers during high respiratory illness activity...
Chautauqua County officials are warning seniors and caregivers to take extra precautions as respiratoy illnesses -- like the flu -- remain "highly active."  County Office for Aging Services Director Dana Corwin urges people to stay up to date on vaccinations... practicing frequent handwashing... ensuring good indoor air circulation... and, stay home when you're sick.  If you have symptoms... she says contact your healthcare provider for guidance -- unless those symptoms are severe or life threatening.  Corwin says -- "the flu is more than a seasonal inconvenience -- it can pose serious risks, especially for older adults.  Being aware of symptoms, monitoring your health, and reporting concerns early are key steps to preventing complications and protecting our community."  During the period from January 1st through 14th... she says there were 159 cases of Influenza A... 4 cases of Influenza B... 42 cases of COVID-19... and, 11 of RSV, and pneumonia.
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Corwin adds that her office is offering free wellness kits to help older adults and caregivers monitor key health measures... like temperature and blood pressure.  Each kit includes a thermometer, a wrist blood pressure cuff, and a pulse oximeter.  They're available at the OFAS offices on a "first-come, first-served basis, while supplies last."  Corwin adds these are especially helpful for people with underlying health conditions.

City man arrested for shoplifting two steaks from northside business...
A city man has been arrested for allegedly stealing two steaks from a business on Jamestown's northside Tuesday morning.  City police were called to the unidentified location shortly before 8 a.m. on a report of a shoplifting.  Officers say store employees told them that a man -- later identified as 37-year-old Joshua Ross -- had taken the steaks without paying for them.  Police found him a short distance away... and, he was arrested for petty larceny.  Ross was arraigned and released on his own recognizance with an appearance ticket for city court.

Ecklund hopeful for more state aid, and updating of antiquated laws in NYS budget plan...
Jamestown's mayor is hopeful that Governor Kathy Hochul will include more aid to municipalities when her state budget proposal is presented this afternoon.  Kim Ecklund says it's been many years since there's been any increase in New York's "Aid and Incentives to Municipalities."  As costs go up... Ecklund says state aid has not kept up for several years now.  She says there was one area in Hochul's State of the State Address that caught her ear, though.  She says that was the need to update antiquated laws... and, regulations... including ethics regarding violations for something as basic as accepting a $15-plus lunch.    Ecklund made her comments for last weekend's "Community Spotlight" program on the six Media One Radio Group stations.
 

Fire heavily damages first-floor of vacant home on Jamestown's northside...
An early morning fire on Jamestown's northside has extensively damaged the lower portion of a vacant, two-story home.  City Fire Lieutenant Rob Smith says crews were called to 836 Prendergast Ave. about 6:20 a.m. Monday... and, found heavy fire on the first-floor at the front of the home... and, smoke through-out the building.  Smith says it took about 45 minutes to bring the stubborn blaze under control... and, adds an off-duty shift of 12 firefighters and shift commander were called in to assist.  He says no one was inside the building.  He says most of the fire damage was to the first floor, with some to the second-floor.  Smith adds that fire crews also had to deal with an exposure to a home next door... but, were able to prevent extensive damage to the siding.  He says one engine was still there late Monday morning... along with two fire investigators.  No cause has yet been determined.

Report from A--P:  Buffalo Bills fire McDermott...
The Buffalo Bills fired Head Coach Sean McDermott on Monday, two people with direct knowledge of the decision told The Associated Press.  The move came two days after the Bills were eliminated in a heart-wrenching 33-30 overtime loss at Denver in the divisional round of the playoffs.  The people spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the team had not announced the moved.  McDermott’s tenure ends after nine seasons in which he transformed the franchise into a perennial winner but was knocked for failing to make a Super Bowl appearance.  Buffalo became the NFL’s first team to win a playoff round in seven consecutive years but not reach the Super Bowl.  The 51-year-old McDermott finished with a 98-50 regular-season record and was 8-8 in the playoffs, ranking second on the team list in wins behind Hall of Fame coach Marv Levy (112-70, 11-8).  Levy did so over 11 seasons during a tenure that included the Jim Kelly-led team reaching -- and losing -- four straight Super Bowls in the early 1990s.  McDermott’s failure to reach the Super Bowl with Josh Allen at quarterback became his undoing.  Though Allen has broken many of Kelly’s passing and scoring records, the Bills have advanced to the AFC championship game just twice -- and lost both times to Kansas City -- during a team-record seven-year playoff run.  Buffalo’s last three playoff losses have all been decided by three points.  And three of McDermott’s playoff losses ended in overtime.  That includes a 42-36 loss to Kansas City in the 2021 divisional round that’s become dubbed "13 seconds"  the amount of time Patrick Mahomes had to complete two passes for 44 yards and set up Harrison Butker’s tying, 49-yard field goal on the final play of regulation.  Despite his playoff inconsistencies, McDermott oversaw a team that won 10 or more regular-season games over seven straight seasons, including two team record-matching 13-win seasons in 2022 and '24.

Western New York and Jamestown-area under Winter Storm Warning through Wednesday afternoon... bitter cold on the way as well...
Snow and bitterly cold temperatures and wind chills are in store for Western New York... including the Jamestown-area... through Wednesday.  That from the National Weather Service in Buffalo... which has issued a Winter Storm Warning for that time period.  Meteorologist John Rozbick says we'll also see blowing snow at times.  Rozbicki says an Arctic cold front will bring in the snow and cold... first just north of Buffalo... and, he says the larger snowfall totals -- 10 to 20 inches -- expected to be in the area of the Chautauqua Ridge.  We will have snow showers during the day today with patchy blowing snow later.  Rozbicki says the Arctic Air will really take hold late tonight and into Tuesday... with a low tonight of 3... and, a high Tuesday of only about 10-above... with strong winds of 40 to 50 mph.  Rozbicki says wind chills tomorrow will reach 15-degrees below zero.  We'll still see some snow on Wednesday... but, temperatures are expected to moderate more... and, get back close to 30-degrees. 

City woman sentenced to probation and community service for stealing, and not delivering mail...
A Jamestown woman has been sentenced to probation... and, 100 hours of community service for stealing gift cards and money from the mail.  U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo has announced that 42 year-old Anita Miller... a former post office employee... received the three-years probation from U.S. District Court Judge Lawrence Vilardo late last week.  Miller was convicted of theft of mail by a postal employee and delay of mail by a postal employee.  Prosecutors say that on six occastions in February and March of 2022... Miller had stolen gift cards and cash from mailed envelopes.  They add that on two occasions in March of 2022... Miller delayed delivery of mailed envelopes.  

Jamestown man arrested for allegedly choking juvenile during domestic incident...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly trying to choke a juvenile victim during a weekend domestic dispute.  City police say they were called to an eastside address just after 7:30 p.m. last Saturday.  Officers say their investigation determined that 60 year-old Ronald Decker had allegedly put his hands around the youth's neck.  They add that the juvenile had visable red marks from the incident.  Police arrested Decker for criminal obstruction of breathing... and, endangering the welfare of a child.  Officers say he was jailed pending arraignment.
 

Six arrested during Thursday evening drug raid in Jamestown...
Six people have been arrested on several drug and weapons-related charges following a raid on an apartment on Jamestown's northside.  Sheriff's officers say narcotics investigators from their department and Jamestown's, executed a search warrant on the lower apartment at 8 Price St. just after 8:30 p.m. Thursday.  Deputies say they found the six people inside... and seized 25.9-grams of Fentanyl, 1.5 grams of methamphetamine, 2.4 grams of crack cocaine, scales and packaging material for the distribution of narcotics, and a .380 handgun.  Officers say 39 year-old Amanda Penhollow and 49 year-old Monroe Wilcox are both charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... two counts of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... second and third-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  Police add that  Harlen Green, and Kayla Lutgen -- both 20 -- and, 25 year-old Orren Breen were all charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  The sixth person... 25 year-old Kiona Furlow was charged with third and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... criminal possession of a firearm and second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  All six were held pending arraignment.  Anyone with information on suspicious or narcotics related activity in their area should call the Sheriff's Office Narcotics Investigators Tip line at 1-800-344-8702 or 664-2420... or the JPD Tip line at 483-8477.

Borrello finds areas of agreement, and disagreement in Gov. Hochul's State of State Address...
Local State Senator George Borrello says there are areas in which he agrees with in Governor Kathy Hochul's State of the State Address.  However... the Sunset Bay Republican charactorized her speech as "a ship in a storm listing back and forth."  Borrello believes Hochul "rightly" focused on New York's affordability issue... but, says it didn't contain anything that he feels is needed to change the state's direction.  He says she avoided major policy items like electrification mandates and the Climate Act... which he called the "big elephant in the room..." or the CLCPA that's driving up most energy costs.  Borrello says that's because they're "politically sensitive for her."  He adds that proposals like scrutinizing executive pay or creating an "affordability monitor" are window dressing.  He was also disappointed that Hochul went on what he calls an anti-law enforcement rant at the end of her speech... which he says was "taylored for the New York City radicals" to not cooperate with federal agents looking for illegal immigrants.  Borrello says he does support the ideas of universal child care and developing more nuclear power. 

NYSSBA official says organization found "number of promising" initiatives in State of State Address...
The organization representing school boards across New York state says there were a "number of promising" initiatives in Governor Hochul's State of the State Address.  State School Boards Association Chief Advocacy Officer Brian Fessler says the most encouraging was the governor's call for funding Universal Pre-K education... because he says "more and more folks recognize that Pre-K instruction is not just valuable... but, bordering on necessary."  Fessler says -- most importantly -- they want a "real focused (and) organized proposal" that will allow those districts who don't have UPK to do so.  He says NYSSBA also wants to know more about the governor's push to emphasize math skills... which is similar to her "Back to Basics" reading initiative.  More concrete proposals are expected in the governor's 2026-27 budget proposal next week.

House fire in city of Dunkirk under investigation...
Fire investigators in the city of Dunkirk are looking into a cause of a blaze that damaged a two-story house in the city's Fourth Ward on Wednesday.  City Fire Chief Nick Barter says his department responded to 140 Townsend St. about 5:15 p.m. and found fire and smoke coming from the back of the residence.  Barter says crews made an aggressive attack and got the flames under control using multiple hand lines and tools.  He says no injuries were reported, and two pets were rescued from the home.  The local Red Cross is assisting the occupants.  Firefighters were on scene for about two hours.  Fredonia Fire, East Dunkirk Fire, Dunkirk Police, Alstar EMS, county Emergency Services... and, Dunkirk Code Enforcement were also at the scene.

Lakewood man arrested in Celoron for alleged assault...
A man from Lakewood has been arrested for allegedly assaulting another person in the village of Celoron in early December.  Ellicott Town Police say they formally arrested 39 year-old Timothy Cornelius for second-degree assault on January 5th.  Officers say they responded to an unidentified address where Cornelius is accused of getting into an altercation... and, hitting the victim several times in the face... causing serious injuries.  Police say the victim needed medical treatment.  They add Cornelius was arrested without incident... and, will appear in Ellicott Town Court at a later date.

City man arrested for allegedly stealing "high-value" sports trading cards...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly stealing two "high-value" sports trading cards from a town of Ellicott business.  Town police were called to a reported theft this past Monday... and, determined that 47 year-old Shaun Cook had taken the cards... and, left the business without paying for them.  Cook was arrested on two counts of petty larceny... and, issued an appearance ticket for Ellicott Town Court.

Bitter cold and snow return to Jamestown-area overnight...
It was a cold and snowy morning across the Jamestown-area... and much of Western New York today.  The immediate area picked up about 3 inches of new snow with some areas near Lake Erie and the Chautauqua Ridge reporting 5 to 6 inches of a general snowfall.  With that has come temperatures in the teens.  Forecaster Dan Kelly with the National Weather Service says wind chills could be below zero during the day today... as cold as -5.  The high today is only expected to be about 17 degrees.  Dunkirk had the lowest Wind Chill this morning with a 3-above zero reading.  We remain under a Winter Storm Warning through 1 AM tomorrow.  Our complete forecast is coming up.
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A handfull of Chautauqua County schools closed today due to the weather.  They included Chautauqua Lake... Brocton... and, Cassadaga Valley.  Both BOCES center in Ashville and Fredonia also closed for today.

Hochul's State of State also focuses on affordable housing, and keeping children safe on-line...
A key part of Governor Kathy Hochul's focus on affordability in her State of the State Address dealt with housing.  Hochul says many strides have been made during her term in supporting getting old vacant homes restored, and new ones built.  She says that will continue with her Pro-Housing Communities' initiative in 2026... which started with just 20 communities looking to get some of the $650-million to support that initiative.  Hochul also touted the success of her in-school cellphone ban... which she says has put more focus on learning in the classroom.  Hochul also pushed for legislation to block "would-be child preditors" from being able to message children... along with blocking location sharing. 

Jamestown man receiveds 46 Months in federal prison for narcotics conspiracy involving heroin, Fantanyl, and meth...
A city man will spend three-years and 10 months in federal prison for his role in a narcotics conspiracy.  U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo has announced that 39 year-old Jacob Snow... who was convicted of narcotics conspiracy, was sentenced to serve 46 months in prison by U.S. District Court Judge Lawrence Vilardo.  Prosecutors say that between January and May 24 of 2021, Snow conspired with Alisha Klinger and others to sell heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine in the Jamestown area.  They say Snow sold drugs and collected payments on behalf of Klinger.  On May 24 of 2021... they say an individual was kidnapped at gunpoint and driven to a wooded area, where she was then hit multiple times, including by Snow.  This incident involved approximately $10,000 worth of heroin/fentanyl and meth that the individual had taken from Snow a day prior.  Charges remain pending against Klinger.

Molitor agrees with some of Hochul's effort to keep child preditors from communicating with kids...
As a father... local State Assemblyman Andrew Molitor says he supports efforts to keep children safe on-line.  However... the Westfield Republican says he has a couple fo concerns over putting unfair limits on that.  Molitor says his concerns are both financial... and, potential impacts on constitutional rights.  He says he's not opposed to helping to provide child care... but, he has concerns over Universal Child Care.  He says if private entities can't do it affordably... the state most like won't be able to, either.

Lakewood man arrested for alleged serious assault in Celoron...
A man from Lakewood has been arrested for allegedly assaulting another person in the village of Celoron in early December.  Ellicott Town Police say they formally arrested 39 year-old Timothy Cornelius for second-degree assault on Jan. 5.  Officers say they responded to an unidentified address where Cornelius is accused of getting into an altercation... and, hitting the victim several times in the face... causing serious injury to the person.  Police say the victim needed medical treatment.  They add Cornelius was arrested without incident... and, will appear in Ellicott Town Court at a later date.

Dunkirk man arrested following two-car crash in north county city, with car then crashing into a house...
A two-car, chain-reaction crash in Dunkirk last Saturday night led to the arrest of a north county man.  Dunkirk police responded to the intersection of Leming and East Pine Streets just after 8:30 p.m. and determined that a vehicle driven by 25-year-old Alan Wasserman ran a stop sign at a two-way intersection.  Officers say Wasserman struck the victim's car, which caused it to strike a house near the intersection.  Wasserman allegedly fled the scene, but came back a short time later.  When officers spoke to him... he appeared to be drunk... and, they conducted field sobriety tests -- which Wasserman failed.  The people inside the car Wasserman struck were evaluated at the scene and released.  Wasserman faces charges including:  DWI, second-degree aggravated unlicensed operation... failure to stop at a stop sign... speeding... and, leaving the scene of a personal injury accident.

City woman arrested for shoplifting and drug possession at Brooklyn Square CVS store..
A Jamestown woman has been arrested for allegedly stealing items from a store in Brooklyn Square... and, for allegedly being in possession of drugs.  City police say they were called to the CVS Store at 19 South Main St. at 11:20 p.m. Wednesday... and, found that 35 year-old Kristen Pattison had taken the merchandise... and, she was also allegedly found in possession of Fentanyl.  Officers took Pattison to the city jail on charges of petty larceny... and, seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  She was held pending arraignment.

Hochul's annual "State of State" Address focuses on affordability...
New York Governor Kathy Hochul outlined new efforts to deal with the affordability crisis Tuesday during her annual State of the State Address in Albany.  Hochul also declared that the state is positioned to face it's challenges... and, she declared the state of the state "is strong."  She highlighted the struggles of many New Yorkers due to the affordability crisis... adding that as a child... she remembers her family's struggles living near Buffalo.   She also talked about the need to invest in universal child care to support families that need it... and, those who work in the profession.  She also proposed ways to cut car insurance rates... which are among the highest in the U-S... and, says the state will be putting the "brakes on fraud..." and, standing up for good drivers who "deserve a break."
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Hochul also talked about the need to take more of an "all of the above" approach to rising energy costs... touting a new hydropower deal with Quebec... and, setting a goal of the state getting 5 gigawatts of electricity from nuclear power.  Hochul also discussed cutting red tape for communities who support new housing projects across the state... as well as a ban on the ability of 3D Printers to make "Ghost Guns."

Borrello says there are areas of agreement in "State of State" response..."
There are areas of agreement Chautauqua County's New York State Senator has with Governor Hochul on affordability.  However... Sunset Bay Republican George Borrello says New York "remains one of the highest-taxed and least affordable states in the nation, putting growing pressure on families, businesses, and communities."  Borrello says the areas of agreement include cracking down on car insurance fraud and joining the federal "no tax on tips" initiative."  However... he says he didn't hear anything about "broad-based tax cuts or structural reforms needed to change the state’s direction or reverse the outmigration that is hollowing out our economy."  On energy and utility costs... Borrello says he supports the focus on developing more nuclear power, but that is at least a decade away.  He says she should "expand access to natural gas and dependable baseload energy instead of waging war against them."
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Borrello says that it was "disappointing that the Governor did not address the state’s disastrous bail and discovery "reforms" and other pro-criminal laws that continue to harm public safety and deny justice to victims.  The high car insurance rates the Governor wants to fix are due, in large part, to soaring motor vehicle thefts.

Molitor calls Hochul's "State of the State" a "stunning admission" of failed policies..."
Chautauqua County's representative in the State Assembly called the governor's address "a stunning admission" of failed Democrat policies in Albany.  Westfield Republican Andrew Molitor says... because of that... he's dubious about how much of what Governor Hochul outlined will actually come to fruition... and, what worries him is that a lot of her rhetoric is designed to get "her through the elections."  Molitor says the biggest admission was regarding energy... and, the need for an "all of the above" strategy... that now includes upping the nuclear power ambitions from one to 5 gigawatts.  He feels the state got the cart way too far in front of the horse.  Molitor says that's become clear with the needs of power for data centers... and, concerns over possible rolling black-outs -- especially in New York City.  On another local note... Fredonia Mayor Mike Ferguson was part of a video early in the governor's presentation... touting state support for a new, Brooks Memorial Hospital. 

Langworthy announces securing $1.25-million for Jamestown Stormwater Channel Maintenance...
The city of Jamestown has formally been approved for $1.25-million in federal funding for it's Stormwater Channel Maintenance Project.  Local Congressman Nick Langworthy announed he had secured the funding... which he called a "critical investment aimed at reducing flooding risks and protecting public safety along the Chadakoin River... which is the outlet for Chautauqua Lake."  The channels are located off Jones and Gifford Avenue... and, have been prone to flooding in the recent times.  Langworthy was in Jamestown several months ago to announce the effort... which he adds will support the restoration and maintenance of the stormwater channels by removing accumulated sediment, debris, and obstructions that threaten nearby homes, businesses, and essential infrastructure.  Langworthy says -- "this $1.25-million investment will help reduce flood risks, protect public safety, and preserve vital infrastructure."

Jamestown man arrested after failing to show up, or work on contracted work at Lakewood home...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly contracting to do work at a home in Lakewood... and, not showing up to do it.  Lakewood-Busti Police say they took 38 year-old Tyler Shirley into custody last weekend after investigating allegations that he was paid for materials to do the work... and, failed to complete any work.  Officers say Shirley was arrested for first-degree scheming to defraud... and, fourth-degree grand larceny.  He was arraigned and issued appearance tickets for Busti Town Court.

Hochul to deliver "State of the State" address this afternoon with re-election campaign ready to heat up...
Governor Kathy Hochul is preparing to fully unveil her agenda for New York in 2026 this afternoon.  Hochul will deliver her annual State of the State Address in Albany.  State Senator George Borrello says he expects Hochul to "rattle her saber" and appease those on the far left regarding President Donald Trump and federal cuts.  The Sunset Bay Republican says he hopes that she comes forward with proposals to make the state more affordable... which he calls the "number-one concern."  But, he believes she's going to propose more spending.  Assemblyman Andrew Molitor says he'll be looking for policies that will address rising energy costs in New York.  The Westfield Republican says his worry is that Hochul will move to a moderate position this year... including the slow-down of meeting the state's climate goals that have driven up energy prices.  Hochul's State of the State Address will begin at 1 p.m. today in Albany.

City woman arrested for allegedly driving drunk, and leaving the scene of a motor vehicle crash Sunday night...
A woman from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly driving drunk... and, leaving the scene after hitting two parked cars last Sunday evening.  Jamestown police say they were called to the scene of a motor vehicle accident on the city's southside shortly before 6 p.m. for a driver leaving the scene of an accident.  Officers say they found that 53 year-old Lori Eaton had allegedly struck the two vehicles... but, one of the operators followed her.  The driver said Eaton had struck the two vehicles... and, then drove through a yard and fled the scene.  Police say they determined that Eaton was driving while under the influence... and, she was arrested for DWI.  She was taken to the city jail where she refused a breath test.  In addition to DWI... she was charged with leaving the scene of an accident and failure to yield right of way.  Eaton was arraigned, and issued an appearance ticket for city court.

City Council's Public Safety Committee discusses traffic safety around Love School... and, others in city...
Concerns have been raised again into traffic around Love Elementary School on Jamestown's northside.  Members of the City Council's Public Safety Committee talked about having a discussion with the principal at Love school to get a better idea of what may help keep traffic moving in a safer manner.  Committee Chairman Tony Dolce says a few ideas were brought up... including speed limits, and changes in traffic patterns.  Dolce says Love school is unique in the city because there is no designated area to drop-off or pick up students.  Committee members also began discussing other possible changes to speed limits or street configurations... especially following last weekend's fatal car-pedestrian accident on Falconer Street -- near Bowen -- that seriously injured a city man -- who later died at the hospital.

Man from Cherry Creek arrested for assault, menacing...
A Cherry Creek man faces several charges after allegedly assaulting and threatening another person last weekend.  Sheriff's officers say they -- and State Police -- were called to a town of Cherry Creek address shortly before 10 p.m. last Saturday.  Deputies say they investigated... and, found that 37 year-old Ryan See initiated a "physical altercation" with the other person.  Officers say See caused numerous injuries to the victim... and, restrained the person from fleeing the area.  He's also accused of threatening the victim's life.  Deputies say See left the area following the incident... but, then initiated another altercation with a nearby neighbor.  See was taken into custody... and, is accused of intentionally smearing his blood throughout the patrol car in an attempt to expose officers to it.  He was taken to the county jail on charges of third-degree assault... second-degree menacing... second-degree unlawful imprisonment... and, second-degree aggravated... third-degree criminal tampering... and, and second-degree obstructing governmental administration.  See was arraigned and issued appearance tickets for Cherry Creek Town Court.

Wendel glad to see a new operator proposing to go into Jamestown Airport's restaurant facility...
A new, full-service breakfast and lunch restaurant will be opening at the Chautauqua County Airport near Jamestown.  Archie's Airport Diner will open once final approvals are made by county officials.  Mark Newton recently announced the new restaurant in a Facebook post... noting that his family has been involved in local aviation for many years.  A public hearing on the proposal will be held later this month.  County Executive P.J. Wendel says the basics are in place for someone to move in... including new equipment, such as freezers, walk-in refrigerators, and grills.  Wendel says the money to make upgrades to the facility came from American Rescue Plan Act funding.  In his posting... Newton said they had received their liquor license this summer... and, they plan to do special event dinners and private parties.  He says they're also looking at hosting events the next few summers.  Wendel made his comments for last weekend's "Community Spotlight" program on the six Media One Radio Group stations.

City man dies from injuries suffered in car-pedestrian accident on Jamestown's eastside...
A man from Jamestown who was struck by a car on the city's eastside last Saturday night has died at an Erie, Pa. hospital from his injuries.  Jamestown police were called to the scene of a car-pedestrian accident on Falconer Street -- near Bowen -- shortly after 6 p.m.  Officers say they found 51 year-old Kendel Bell... laying on the street and unresponsive.  They attempted to provide lifesaving measures until Jamestown firefighters... and, Alstar EMS arrived on scene.  Bell was taken initially to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital... then transferred to UPMC Hamot in Erie.  He died from his injuries Sunday morning.  City police say the operator of the car that struck Bell called 911... and is cooperating with the investigation.  However... they are asking residents from the area who live in the area of Lilllian Dickson Park... and, have video footage of the accident... to contact them at 483-7536.

Langworthy announces temporary closing of District Office in Jamestown due to "credible threats..."
Citing "credible threats and calls for violence..." local Congressman Nick Langworthy has announced that his Jamestown district office will be closed temporarily.  In a printed statement... Langworthy said -- "the safety of my staff and the constituents we serve is my top priority.  Due to repeated credible threats and calls for violence directed at me, and members of staff, starting Monday, my Jamestown District Office will remain closed."  The Buffalo-area Republican says he's working closely with Capitol Police and local law enforcement to address the threats... and to ensure appropriate security measures are in place."  He adds that while the "physical office will be closed, my team will continue to assist constituents remotely, and all our office’s services will remain available."  Langworthy says he appreciates everyone's understanding and cooperation as they take these steps to protect everyone involved.  He says his office will update the situation on when they will reopen the office.  

City man -- a two-time convicted Felon -- arrested for alleged gun possession...
A two-time convicted Felon on state parole has been arrested following a traffic stop late last week on Jamestown's eastside.  City police say they spotted 31 year-old Alvin Jusino, Jr. commit a traffic infraction on East Seventh Street about 9:30 p.m. last Thursday... and performed a street check.  Officers say Jusino initially lied about his identity... and, when they asked a second-time... Jusino took off running and led officers on a foot chase.  They say Jusino threw a backpack onto a lawn just prior to being caught and arrested.  Police say when they searched the backpack... they found a shotgun that was altered so it could be concealed.  Jusino was last convicted of second-degree assault of a police officer in July of 2024... and, therefore cannot possess any gun.  He is also on parole for that Felony conviction.  Jusino has been charged with third- and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon... second-degree criminal impersonation... resisting arrest... tempering with physical evidence... and, a traffic summons.  He was held pending arraignment.

Quattrone says Fox admits to murdering grandmother nearly 50 years ago...
A convicted killer who is tied to three homicides in Western New York has now admitted to his involvement in a fourth homicide -- this one dating back almost 50 years.  The Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office was involved in the investigation into a July 1976 killing at a residence on Cain Road in the Erie County Town of Brant.  Sheriff Jim Quattrone says 62 year-old Richard Fox confessed to the stabbing death of Beatrice Meabon who was his grandmother.  Quattrone says it was likely his first murder of what was likely four.  The Brant and Buffalo police departments were also involved in the investigation.  Despite Fox's admission, Quattrone says he cannot be prosecuted for that incident due to his age at the time because Fox was a juvenile at the time.  Fox was recently sentenced to 40 years to life in prison for the murder of two women whose remains were found in the Town of Portland in 2021.  He has also been indicted for a homicide in Niagara Falls.

City man arrested in Stockton on several charges for allegedly fleeing police...
A man from Jamestown faces several charges after allegedly fleeing sheriff's deputies who were trying to stop him for a traffic infraction in the town of Stockton.  Officers say they spotted the driver... 46 year-old Eric Johnson... commit the infraction shortly before 2:30 a.m. Sunday.  Deputies were able to eventually stop Johnson... and, he was arrested on charges including driving while intoxcated... second-degree unlawfully fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle... failure to stop at a stop sign... improper or unsafe turn... and failure to keep right.  He was take to the county jail pending centralized arraignment... and, will appear in Stockton Town Court at a later date.

Wendel comments on passing of retired County Clerk, Larry Barmore...
Late Chautauqua County Clerk Larry Barmore is being remembered as a public servant... family man and historian.  Among those recalling Barmore... and, his service is County Executive P.J. Wendel... who eulogized Barmore on this past weekend's Community Spotlight program.  Wendel says he was courageously fighting cancer the past couple of years... and, he knew his health was not good.  Barmore passed away just after the New Year's holiday... which was the end of his most recent four-year term.  He had announced earlier in the year that he would not be running again. 
 

High flu numbers in New York State during the holidays mirrored in Chautauqua Co....
After spiking over the Christmas and New Year's holidays... it appears that flu numbers across New York state are leveling off.  That from local health officials in a review of the numbers in recent days.  Chautauqua County Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Michael Faulk... says the number of cases locally jumped right around and after Christmas.  He says the county had 85 reported cases from Dec. 17-24... but, then increased between Dec. 25-31 to 119 cases... and, there were 110 cases from Jan. 1 to now.  Faulk adds that those were the "limited" numbers by physicians and local hospitals.  In October... he says New York state reported about 1,700 cases... but, two months later -- that number reached 113,000 cases with 5,300 being hospitalized.  UPMC Chautauqua Hospital President Tracy Gates says that's generally what they've been seeing.  She adds they've also been able to add more capacity in case their emergency rooms become full.  Faulk says flu symptoms include: fatigue and body aches... along with sniffles and a cough -- with a fever following.  He says most times... symptoms can be managed at home.  However... he says if the fatigue or breathing becomes difficult... the person should go to the doctor or in more dire cases... the emergency room.  While the flu shot may not be prevent the current strain... he says it will help in lessening any symptoms.

City man indicted for alleged threats made to DHS agent...
A man from Jamestown has been indicted by a federal Grand Jury for allegedly threatening to assault and murder a Homeland Security agent and their family.  U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced Thursday that the secret panel returned the indictment against 43 year-old Matthew White for threatening to assault and murder a federal law enforcement officer and interstate communication with threat to injure a person.  DiGiacomo says the charges carry a maximum of 10 years in prison.  Prosecutors say that White threatened to assault and murder the DHS agent with the intent of interfering in the officer’s performance of his duties.  In addition... they say White posted threats on X, stating -- "I can’t wait to put a bullet into this guy’s brain, but first his children."

Jamestown firefighters make quick work of second-floor fire on Charles Street...
Quick work by Jamestown firefighters confined an overnight blaze on the second-floor of a southside home to the area of origin.  City Fire Chief Ryan Rousch says crews were called to 208 Charles St. shortly before 1 a.m. Friday... and, found flames coming from the second-story windows on two corners of the house.  Rousch says crews laid two handlines to the upstairs... and, had the fire out quickly.  No one wsa home at the time.  Rousch says an off-duty shift was called in... along with fire investigators.  No injuries were reported... and, the cause remains under investigtion.

In wake of still-high gasoline prices, Wendel urges recents to find, and report places selling cheaper gas prices...
Gasoline prices in the Jamestown-area remained "steady" over the past week... but, that's not good news for local motorists.  And... it's become "disappointing" to Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel... who says he share's local residents outrage over the fact we have some of the highest -- if not the highest -- gas prices in New York state.  He says Crosby's and Kwik Fills in Lakewood and Jamestown have consistantly been at $3.39 to $3.40 for regular, unleaded.  He says lower prices tend to be in the area of the State Thruway -- or the north county -- near Erie County.  Wendel says the lowest gas price they've heard is $2.99 at the Kwik Fill in Westfield.  With that... he's urging local motorists to frequent those service stations-convenience stores that have the lowest prices in the area.  He's asking people to post their findings on his Facebook page to let people know what they're paying -- and where.  He adds that the "Gas Buddy" app is also a good place to look.  He made his comments for this coming weekend's "Community Spotlight" program on the six Media One Radio Group stations.

Gillibrand demands Trump Administration release child care funding for NYS, and others...
New York's Junior U.S. Senator is demanding that the Trump administration unfreeze more than $3-billion in grant funding that helps provide child care assistance to tens of thousands families in the state.  Democrat Kirsten Gillibrand says it's part of the just over $10-billion to five Democrat-led states -- including New York -- that receive the funding.  Gillibrand calls the move by the Trump administration on Tuesday "disturbing..." and, adds that the administration’s decision to freeze child care grants is -- "a brazen political attack that will hurt New York families, children, and child care providers who are already struggling to get by.  Because of this action, child care providers will almost certainly be forced to close their doors, families will be stripped of the assistance they rely on, and children will suffer."  Gillibrand says the funding goes to three child care programs in New York state:  the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program... the Child Care Development fund... and, another that provides an "array of social service grants" to help with at-risk children. 

Man accused of shooting and killing Jamestown mother of three pleads guilty to first-degree murder...
The Chautauqua County man accused of shooting and killing a Jamestown mother of three has pled guilty to a first-degree murder charge a week before his case was to go to trial.  District Attorney Jason Schmidt says 37 year-old Michael Burham entered the plea in county court Tuesday... and, now faces 25 years to life in prison when he is sentenced on Mar. 2.  Burham is accused of shooting and killing Kala Hodgkin in her home in the early morning hours of May 11, 2023.  Schmidt adds that Burham had already been accused of forcibly raping Hodgkin two weeks prior to the shooting.  Burham fled the area... but, was later found.  However... he escaped from the Warren County Jail and was captured in Warren County a few days later.  Schmidt says -- quote "whether by trial or plea, Mr. Burham’s judgment day was coming and we now look forward to sending him off to state prison where I hope he spends the rest of his life reliving what he did... murdering an innocent young mother, destroying a local family, and traumatizing Kala’s surviving children.  Our thoughts and prayers have been and remain with the children, including Mr. Burham’s daughter who was sleeping upstairs when he broke into Hodgkin's home... and, committed this "shockingly evil crime."  Schmidt says his office's "iron-clad" case against Burham is what led directly to the plea agreement.  He thanked several local and regional agencies... including Jamestown police... the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Department and it's Forensic Investigation Team... and police in Warren, Pa. for their work on the case.

City man arrested in West Ellicott for alleged cocaine trafficking...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly being found in possession of nearly 300-grams of cocaine during a raid in West Ellicott earlier this week.  Sheriff's officers says investigators looked into alleged drug sales from 44 Glidden Ave. after seizing a quantity of cocaine.  Deputies say their Narcotics investigators... along with those from the Jamestown and Ellicott police departments... executed a search warrant at the residence last Monday afternoon.  Officers arrested 35 year-old Matthew Bindics for first-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  They also seized 295.5-grams of cocaine, scales and packaging materials... and, $4,555 in cash.  Bindics was held pending arraignment.  If you have any information on suspicious or drug-related activity in your area... call the Sheriff's Office Narcotics Investigators Tip line at 1-800-344-8702 or 664-2420.  For the JPD Tip line call 483-TIPS.. that's 483-8477.

Wendel reflects on 2025 in year end comments...
There were a number of challenges in 2025... but, it was also a year of accomplishment for Chautauqua County government.  Those are the feelings of County Executive P.J. Wendel... who says it was another year of reduced taxes... and, further efforts to bring more businesses and people back to the area.  Wendel says -- for the fifth-year in a row -- his administration has been able to cut the property tax rate... and, begin addressing the county's loss of population with a marketing and branding effort that includes "LiveCHQ and "ChooseCHQ" to draw new businesses and people to the county.  Wendel says the challenges remain having a state that's not business-friendly.  However... he says the county is continuing to work to improve the quality of life here.  One of the major quality of life drivers is Chautauqua Lake... and the Lakewood Republican says he's optimistic with some changes in late 2025.  He says there will be a new lake alliance group, and an emphasis on dealing with weeds sooner.  A change in leadership at the Chautauqua Lake Association... led to a strong push late last Summer to clear weeds in the south basin of the lake.  Wendel made his comments for a recent Community Spotlight program.

State Legislature begins 2026 session in Albany...
State lawmakers are in Albany for the start of this year's legislative session Wednesday.  Chautauqua County's two state legislators spoke about their priorities for 2026 prior to leaving for Albany.  State Assemblyman Andrew Molitor says he would like to see lawmakers be more efficient and make the state more affordable for its residents... including lessening the tax burden, and more common sense energy policies for residents.  Affordability is also on the mind of Senator George Borrello.  Among the items high on his list is a repeal of the All-Electric Buildings Act... which had been suspended in the wake of a court battle over the legislation.  Borrello says he'll be pushing for a full repeal.  Borrello says he will also push for a repeal of a mandate for electrification of school buses. 

Jamestown man arrested following pair of domestic incidents on city's southside...
A city man has been arrested following a pair of domestic incidents... including an earlier robbery... at a home on Jamestown's southside.  City police say they were first called to the unidentified location Tuesday morning... but, add 23 year-old Darius Thomas had left the scene after taking property... and, allegedly choking the victim.  Officers say Thomas returned to the scene about Midnight... and, he jumped out a second-story window to try and elude police.  However... he was quickly taken into custody on charges of third-degree robbery, fourth-degree Grand Larceny, third-degree criminal mischief... and, criminal obstruction of breathing.  He was held pending arraignment.

Akron, Ohio woman indicted in federal court on meth. trafficking charge...
An Akron, Ohio woman has been indicted by a federal Grand Jury for allegedly trafficking drugs in the Jamestown-area early last year.  U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced Tuesday that the indictment charges 26 year-old Celina "Ce Ce" Serva with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.  Prosecutors say that in March of 2025... the Drug Enforcement Agency... Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force... and, the Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force began investigating the sale and distribution of narcotics in the town of Ellicott.  They say the investigation included surveillance and undercover drug buys.  In April of last year... investigators executed a search warrant at a home in Ellicott, and, seized multiple controlled substances, a shotgun, and a large quantity of cash.  Subsequent investigation identified Serva as the source of supply.  Police later arrested Serva as she tried to deliver methamphetamine to the residence.  She was found in possession of 975 grams of suspected crystal meth.  DiGiacomo says -- if convicted -- Serva faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in federal prison, a maximum of life, and a $10-million fine.

City woman arrested for waving knife near juvenile during northside domestic...
A woman from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly waving a knife at a juvenile during a domestic incident on the city's northside early Tuesday morning.  Jamestown police were called to the location about 3 a.m. for an "in-progress" domestic dispute involving a knife.  Officers say they investigated... and, arrested 34 year-old Samantha Omeruo for waving the knife in "close proximity" to the child.  Omeruo was arrested for endangering the welfare of a child... and, held pending arraignment.  

Issue with heating pad blamed for Fredonia bedroom fire...
A malfunctioning heating pad in an upstairs bedroom is the listed cause of a house fire in the village of Fredonia about mid-morning Monday.  Sheriff's officers say Fredonia fire crews were called to the scene at 127 Paluski St. just after 8:30 a.m., and, once the blaze was out, they called in the county's Fire Investigation Team.  Fire was confined to the bedroom.  Dunkirk firefighters provided mutual aid.  One resident was taken to a local hospital for treatment of minor injuries.  The fire was ruled accidential.

Dunkirk Common Council hold's reorganizational meeting...
The new year got underway in the city of Dunkirk with the inauguration of the new and returning members of the Common Council late last week.  New council members Frank Torain and Gary Frederickson were sworn in, along with returning lawmakers Nick Weiser and Natalie Luczkowiak.  Mike Civiletto is also back on the council after previously serving from 2018-2019.   Weiser, who is starting his second term as Councilman at Large... says the day marks "a new beginning" for the council and the city amid a difficult time highlighted by a significant financial deficit.  He adds that reality has "not lost on us."  However... he says the north county city has had challenges in the past, and has endured.  Weiser adds that the city is at an inflection point, saying that the council's decisions will shape the confidence of families and businesses, and whether residents feel the city's government is worthy of their trust... and, he believes they can take bold, thoughtful action to make positive change.  Weiser says he's "genuinely enthusiastic" about working with the new council.  He stated that the different perspectives and skill sets each member brings "is its strength, if we choose to treat it as one."

Barone reappointed to be County Public Defender for another year...
Long-time Chautauqua County Public Defender Ned Barone has been unanimously approved for another one-year term to head up that office.  However... an effort to give the Jamestown native an additional year on the term was defeated by the county legislature.  Still lawmakers gave overwhelming support to Barone... and, that included long-time friend -- and, Jamestown Democrat Vince DeJoy.  DeJoy... who is newly elected... recalled seeing Barone doing research for a case at Chautauqua Institution for a defendent "who was despicable."  Barone has personally represented several well-known defendants in Chautauqua County Court and elsewhere.  Most recently... he defended New Jersey's Hadi Matar... who was convicted to trying to kill famed Author Salman Rushdie at the Chautauqua Institution Amphitheater in August of 2022.  Barone's base salary will be just over $103,000 for 2026.

Man from Dunkirk arrested for alleged nunchuck attack...
A Dunkirk man faces several charges after he allegedly attacked someone by swinging nunchucks at them.  Dunkirk Police received a complaint last week that an unknown man came onto the victim's property in the city and tried to hit them with a homemade weapon.  After reviewing surveillance footage they were provided... officers identified the suspect as 55-year-old Jerry Small, who allegedly came onto the victim's property as they were shoveling snow and refused to leave.  Small then allegedly struck the property owner with the nunchucks and walked away.  Small was found a short time later and arrested for third-and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon, third-degree menacing, trespassing, and second-degree harassment.  He was arraigned and later released.

City man accused of shaking and strangling baby that later died agrees to manslaughter plea...
The Jamestown man accused of intentionially strangling and shaking an 8-month old baby in April of 2024 has pled guilty to first-degree manslaughter in the case.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt has announced that 28 year-old Sean Thomas entered the plea in county court on Dec. 15.  Thomas was initially arrested... and arraigned on an eight count indictment in which he was charged with second-degree murder in the death of young Aniyah Turk... and, other related crimes.  The child was rushed to a hospital... but, eventually succumbed to her injuries about a month later.  Schmidt says Thomas faces up to 25 years in prison... and, will likely receive 20 years with five years of post-release supervision when he is sentenced on Feb. 23.  The D-A thanked Jamestown police for their hard work on the case.  JPD Sgt. Daniel Overend says "the choices that he made is a reminder that evil that can exist in our community.  We cannot imagine the hurt that the victim's family felt and is currently feeling regarding Mr. Thomas’ actions. Atrocities such as this have a major effect on all of the officers and investigators involved.  We pray that the victim's family will find some peace knowing that Mr. Thomas will spend a significant amount of his life incarcerated and our community is protected from him."

City woman arrested for allegedly waving knife during domestic incident...
A woman from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly waving a knife at a juvenile during a domestic incident on the city's northside early Tuesday morning.  Jamestown police were called to the location about 3 a.m. for an "in-progress" domestic dispute involving a knife.  Officers say they investigated... and, arrested 34 year-old Samantha Omeruo for waving the knife in "close proximity" to the child.  Omeruo was arrested for endangering the welfare of a child... and, held pending arraignment.  

Brackman elected City Council president during council reorganizational meeting...
The new Jamestown City Council was sworn-in during last night's reorganizational meeting in Council Chambers at City Hall.  City Clerk Jennifer John administered the Oath of Office.  There's also a new Council President.  With Democrats taking a five-to-four majority in last November's election... they voted incumbant Third-Ward Representative Regina Brackman to the position.  Brackman says she's both "humbled and honored" to be elected to the post... and, adds she will do her best to support and guide the council to lead the city... and, support city departments and administration.  Brackman just finished up her second-full term on council after being appointed to replace the late Vickeye James five years ago.  She says she has worked hard to continue James' legacy of working hard for the people of her ward... and, the city at-large.  Brackman says she believes that -- "Vickeye would be proud and supportive of my actions as a council member."  She also vowed to do what's needed to improve the quality of life for the people of the city... and, resolution to "their concerns."  The four new members of the Council are all Democrats.  They are Fourth-Ward representative Doug Scotchmer... Fifth-Ward Councilwoman Hannah Jaroszynski... and, At-Large members Jeremy Endquist... and, Dan Gonzales.

Celoron man arrested following vehicle pursuit that begins in Jamestown... goes into Celoron... then back into the city...
A Celoron man faces multiple charges after allegedly leading police on a vehicle chase on Jamestown's westside following an unwanted person complaint.  City police were called to the unidentified location about 1 p.m. Sunday... but, as officers arrived... they say 30 year-old Gregory Messere, Jr. fled the area in a truck and led officers on the pursuit.  Officers say Messere failed to stop as he traveled through the city's westside... and, back into the village of Celoron.  He's then accused of driving back into the city along Jones and Gifford Avenue.  Police say he then continued onto Lister Street before traveling westbound toward Celoron again, where he ultimately abandoned the vehicle behind a village-owned property.  During the pursuit... police say Messere nearly drove head-on into a JPD vehicle at a high rate of speed... and, nearly lost control of the vehicle while navigating an intersection at high speed.  Messere fled the truck on foot but was later taken into custody without incident with coordinating police including the Sheriff's Office... and, State Police.  He's is charged with fourth-degree grand larceny... first-degree reckless endangerment... unlicensed operation... reckless driving... failure to comply, along with several additional traffic violations.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

Recently retired County Clerk, Larry Barmore, passes at age 74...
Just-recently retired Chautauqua County Clerk Larry Barmore of Gerry has passed away.  In an obituary on the Jordan Funeral Home's webpage... it says that Barmore, who was 74, passed away last Saturday peacefully at his home with his wife and other family by his side.  Larry managed the former Big N store in Jamestown... and, later joined the family business Gay Mark Tire & Wheel in Cassadaga... and later bought the business.  From 2008 to 2013... Barmore was a member of the Chautauqua County Legislature... and in 2014... he sold the Gay Mark business once he was first elected to be County Clerk.  He authored two books on the history of Sinclairville... and, was an avid pilot.  The family will receive friends from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 8 at the Jordan Funeral Home in Sinclairville... where his funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Friday.  

Jamestown fire crews make quick work of first-floor apartment house fire on Crescent St....
Quick response from Jamestown firefighters prevented extensive damage to a two-family, 2-1/2 story home on the city's eastside Sunday night.  However... an elderly, disabled woman living on the first floor had to be rescued from the home.  City Fire Chief Ryan Rousch says crews were called to 523 Crescent St. just before 7:30 p.m., and, found flames coming from the front of the first floor... adding there was heavy fire in the center of that apartment.  They were also told of possible entrapment with an elderly, disabled woman on the first floor.  Rousch says firefighters were able to find the woman on the floor of the apartment and quickly got her outside.  He says she was still being treated at UPMC Chautauqua Hospital last night.  Rousch says they also had to treat a responding Jamestown police officer for some smoke inhalation.  He says it took about 30-minutes to get the blaze under control and out... and damage was confined to the area of origin.  Rousch says an off-duty shift was called in... along with two fire investigators.  He says the cause was determined to be accidental.

Celoron man arrested following vehicle pursuit, and reckless driving in city, and village...
A Celoron man faces multiple charges after allegedly leading police on a vehicle chase on Jamestown's westside following an unwanted person complaint.  City police were called to the unidentified location about 1 p.m. Sunday... but, as officers arrived... they say 30 year-old Gregory Messere, Junior fled the area in a truck and led officers on the pursuit.  Officers say Messere failed to stop as he traveled through the city's westside... and, back into the village of Celoron.  He's then accused of driving back into the city along Jones and Gifford Avenue.  Police say he then continued onto Lister Street before traveling westbound toward Celoron again, where he ultimately abandoned the vehicle behind a village-owned property.  During the pursuit... police say Messere nearly drove head-on into a JPD vehicle at a high rate of speed... and, nearly lost control of the vehicle while navigating an intersection at high speed.  Messere fled the truck on foot but was later taken into custody without incident with coordinating police including the Sheriff's Office... and, State Police.  He's is charged with fourth-degree grand larceny... first-degree reckless endangerment... unlicensed operation... reckless driving... and several others.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

Pair of snowmobile accidents in town of Chautauqua Saturday send both operators to the hospital...
Two snowmobile accidents in Chautauqua County last weekend sent two men to an Erie, Pennsylvania hospital with injuries.  The most serious was called in at 7 p.m. Saturday when a southbound sled slammed into a tree... and the operator was ejected.  Sheriff's officers say 38 year-old Donald Foley of Willoughby, Ohio was rounding a curve when the crash occured.  Officers say Foley was taken to UPMC Hamot Medical Center in Erie for treatment.  No charges were filed.
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The other snowmobile accident occured earlier in the day in the town of Chautauqua... with one person was taken to UPMC Hamot in Erie with non-life-threatening injuries.  Sheriff's officers say they and North Lake Fire District members were called to the area of McKay Road for the accident just after 4:30 p.m. Saturday.  Officials say an unidentified male was transported to Hamot for treatment.  No charges have been filed.

Three arrested late last week in Jamestown for alleged possession of signficant amount of drugs...
Three people from Jamestown face several charges after allegedly being found with a significant amount of illegal drugs during a traffic stop on the city's eastside.  Jamestown police say they stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation shortly after Midnight last Friday in the area of Harrison and Winsor Streets.  Officers say their investigation found that 31 year-old Taylor Hernandez was in possession of nearly 68-grams of methamphetamine... and 42.7-grams of Fentanyl.  In addition... they found 31 year-old Bradley McKay in possession of 40-grams of meth... and, a quantity of Fentanyl.  The third suspect... 57 year-old Zachary Clark... was allegedly driving the car... and, found in possession of 10 grams of meth.  All three were arrested and jailed pending arraignment.  Hernandez is charged with second-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  McKay faces two counts of third-and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, Clark is charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, was issued two traffic citations.   

County Legislature sworn-in during Friday night reorganziational meeting, Chagnon again elected chairman...
The Chautauqua County Legislature -- and it's four new members -- have been sworn-in for 2026.  Assistant County Attorney Nate Harp administered the oath at last Friday night's meeting.  Lawmakers then approved the re-election of Ellery's Pierre Chagnon as Legislature Chairman.  Chagnon has served in the post the past few years... and, said he is both "honored and humbled" to again be what he termed a "servant leader" of the legislature.  Chagnon reiterated that he would not focus on "what is wrong" with the county... but, wanted to work towards "how we improve" county services.  He says that will be challenging in the new year with likely "cost shifts" from both New York state and the federal governments... but, vowed to help protect county property taxpayers and protect essential services from those shifts.  During his brief address... Chagnon also welcomed the four new legislators -- Democrats Vince DeJoy... Sandra Lewis... and Bob Whitney... and, one Republican... Jay Merritt.