WVIN News - Sponsored By:

Top Stories, May 31, 2022

State Senate Honors An Elmira Veteran

State Senator Tom O’Mara says Dennis Wolfe, Sr. of Chemung County, a well-known area Vietnam War veteran and founder of the Vietnam War Museum in Elmira, was inducted into the New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame yesterday.  Wolfe was born and raised in Elmira, graduated from Southside High in 1964.  O'Mara says, Wofle went into the army in 1966, was in Vietnam in 1967 and 1968 where he was a helicopter crew chief.

 

Foster Parents In Steuben Honored

Foster parents were recently honored at the annual Steuben County Department of Social Services’ “Forget Me Not” banquet, held at the American Legion in Addison. County DSS Commissioner Kathryn Muller told foster parents they give their children foundations and roots, a childhood with days made for sunshine, and a nourishing memory of home. “You are ordinary people with extraordinary hearts,” she said.

 

Steuben's Upcoming Online Only Auction

Some 113 parcels will be up for bid June 15-22 during the online-only Steuben County Delinquent Real Property Tax Auction. County legislators approved the dates for the auction during their regular session Monday. Establishing the annual auction has been complicated during recent years by restrictions still surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic, court issues and the challenge of locating a physical site. Steuben officials maintain the purpose of the county auction is to recover back taxes and put the properties back on the tax rolls, not to seize property. The County has long provided ways for delinquent property owners to recover their property prior to the point of foreclosure sale.

 

So What Happened At The Arnot Mall On Saturday? 

It was a chaotic day on Saturday afternoon at the Arnot Mall.  At 4:15pm Saturday,  the State Police went there after reports of an active shooter.  Troopers responded and it was determined that there were no shots fired or any victims.   One local media outlet is reporting that all it was, was a teenager with a toy gun. 

Top Stories, May 27, 2022

Fatal Motorcycle Accident 

 

Lori Woodruff, 59, Corning, was killed in a motorcycle accident the other day.  State Police say that the motorcycle, operated by Lorie A. Woodruff, age 59, from Corning, NY was traveling eastbound on River Road (County Route-44) in the town of Corning when she failed to negotiate a bend in the roadway.  Woodruff traveled across the center line and into the path of an oncoming SUV, being operated by a 57-year-old town of Corning resident.   Woodruff was pronounced deceased at the scene and the investigation is ongoing at this time.  The New York State Police were assisted on scene by the Joint Corning Fire District, and AMR Ambulance.

 

Law Enforcement - On The Lookout - This Weekend 

Drivers can expect to see sobriety checkpoints and increased patrols by State Police and local law enforcement agencies during this holiday weekend. Troopers will be using both marked State Police vehicles and Concealed Identity Traffic Enforcement (CITE) vehicles as part of this crackdown to more easily identify motorists who are violating the law. CITE vehicles allow the Trooper to better observe driving violations.  These vehicles blend in with everyday traffic but are unmistakable as emergency vehicles once the emergency lighting is activated.

 

Meth Charges Against Alleged Petty Thief

An Elmira man is accused of stealing from a store in the town of Erwin and being in possession of a baggie of meth, when he was arrested.  That's according to the Steuben Co Sheriff, who says that in other news, an  Addison woman is accused of smashing a window inside the steuben county jail where that person is an inmate.

 

Student In Trouble For Posing With Gun In Online Pic

In Wayne county a 17 year old white male was reported to school officials for posing in a social media picture holding a rifle.  Editors note: please warn all students to be extra careful about that kind of thing these days, in light of recent shootings. 

 

Top Stories, May 26, 2022

More Police Presence

State Police say that troopers will conduct daily check-ins at New York State's schools from now until the end of the year following the mass shooting at a Texas elementary school.  

 

Nurses Union Speaks Out Against Violence In Buffalo

The New York State Nurses union put out a statement regarding the recent shootings in Buffalo and down in Texas.  The nurses union is calling on the governor to implement strategies to fight against violence.  

 

Shocker: Two Youths Charged Over In Canisteo

Over in Canisteo, village police charged an 11 year old with 3rd degree assault.  Also there,  police also charged a 15 year old for punching a cop while the kid was being ticketed for damaging property in Canisteo.  The 15 year old is accused of resisting arrest and other charges.

 

Key Republican Endorsement for Congressman Jacobs 

Erie County Republican Congressman Chris Jacobs, whose running against Tioga County Democrat Max Della Pia, Jacobs has been endorsed by Republican Assemblyman Joe Giglio (Jill-ee-oh). 

 

Special Election Date Questions Remain

When will the special election be for the remainder of the Tom Reed term in the house?  Reed stepped down several weeks ago. The governor says reed didn’t turn in his paper work reed says he did and more than once…The latest is, the department of state in Albanys says they’ve gotten Reeds paperwork, Senator George Borrello says the govenor is intentionally stalling.  ey’ve gotten Reeds paperwork

Top Stories, May 25, 2022

No History Regents Tests This Year 

In a letter released Tuesday, state Education Commissioner Betty Rosa wrote that officials “determined there is content on the new Regents Examination in United States History and Government that has the potential to compound student trauma caused by the recent violence in Buffalo.”  So no history Regent exams, they were going to be June 1, but now, they’re not going to be taking them at all.

 

Inmate Assault At The County Jail

Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard reports that deputies arrested 33 year Shane Wood, of West Morris Street, Bath, following a report of an assault in the Steuben County Jail.  It is alleged that Mr. Wood, a current inmate, caused serious physical injury to another prisoner.  The victim required medical treatment outside the jail facility and was treated and returned to the jail.  Wood was charged with 2nd degree Assault.

 

 

Top Stories, May 24, 2022

Covid Update From Steuben Co Public Health 

Steuben County Public Health reports “We're happy to report the lowest number of cases this month: 415 new positive tests have been reported since last week's update. Steuben still remains in the high COVID community level, and unfortunately, hospitalizations are up compared to last week.  It is strongly recommended that those in high community levels wear a mask indoors in public; get tested if having symptoms, after exposure, before and after travel, and before and after attending large gatherings.”

 

State Police Make Two Arrests In Bath

From State Police/Bath Barracks: On May23, 2022, the State Police arrested John E. Roe for Criminal Trespass 2nd Degree from an investigation that began in early May, of 2022.  It is alleged that Roe illegally entered a residence without permission.  Also, after consulting with the Steuben County District Attorney’s Office, State Police charged Jessica L. Monahan for Falsifying Business Records 2nd Degree, for providing false information to the State Police.


Local Redistricting Of County Lines

Redistricting of the county lines, for the individual county lawmakers and their legislative maps here in Steuben, was a big topic this week at a Steuben County meeting.  Steuben County Manager Jack Wheeler says, this was discussed at the county legislative meeting on Monday, and will be coming up more, in the months to come.

 

Palmesano And Buffalo Area Congressman Chris Jacobs 

Speaking of the subject of legislative map redistricting, the new 23rd’s GOP candidate for congress, will be Republican Congressman Chris Jacobs.  Assemblyman Phil Palmesano remembers Jacobs from the representative’s legislative years at the capital. In Albany.  "I knew Chris Jacobs when he was a candidate in the State Senate," Palmesano said.  "He is a strong conservative and will be a good voice for the Western New York/Southern Tier congressional region. 


The Counties In The New 23rd Congressional District 

On the new maps, Congressman Jacobs summed up what the counties included in the new 23rd will be.  Here’s the list: Allegany County Cattaraugus County, Chautauqua, Chemung County, Erie County, Schuyler County and Steuben County.

 

Top Stories, May 23, 2022

Large Turnout For Law Enforcement Memorial Service

Dozens of residents and local dignitaries attended the eighth annual Law Enforcement Memorial Service Friday evening at the Steuben County Public Safety Building in Bath. 

 

Former Governor Andrew Cuomo Talks Buffalo Shooting 

Appearing in a Baptist Church on Sunday morning, former governor Andrew Cuomo talked about the Buffalo shooting massacre.  Cuomo mentioned the Safe Act, and stated that it was not enough to fight the problem of lone wolf shooting acts.  "The federal government must do more, the 18 year old white supremicist went across state lines into PA, to buy the magazine which was outlawed in New York.  The federal gov't must do the right thing."  

 

Congressional Map Update 

So for Congress, the new 23rd congressional district map, is the same basic map that it was when released last Monday, when the first draft of it came out.  However, the new congressional map has resulted in a little musical chairs situation between Congresswoman Claudia Tenney and Congressman Chris Jacobs. Tenney, who is a Republican from Utica, will run for the Buffalo area district. Jacobs, who is from Buffalo, will run for the new 23rd Congressional District. Jacobs faces opposition from Tioga County Democrat Max Della Pia.  Joe Sempolinski still wants to run in the special election, which fills out the remainder of the Tom Reed unfinished term, but not in the August 23 primary which is the primary for the full new term for the new 23rd congressional district.  As for the maps for the new state senate districts, they are the same for State Senator Tom O'Mara.  

 

Statement From NYS GOP Chair Langworthy:
“Today is a good day for democracy. Democrats’ scheme to rig the election is finally dead beyond revival. We took on this fight on behalf of the 20 million citizens of this state who deserve free and fair elections. It should not be forgotten by voters that Governor Hochul, DCCC Chair Congressman Maloney, and Senator Gianaris were the chief architects of this outrageous and illegal attempt to strip New Yorkers of their rights and cheat, all at an enormous cost to taxpayers. This is yet another reason why one-Party rule must be demolished in this year’s election, which we look forward to competing in on the merits.”

Top Stories, May 20, 2022

The Smith Verdict Is In

Steuben County District Attorney Brooks Baker says, Tonya Smith was found guilty of the manslaughter second charge and the reckless endangerment second charge.  Smith was the driver who ran over and killed Bath resident Donnie Masti in 2019.  Tonya Smith will be sentenced at a later date. 

 
Rochester Suspect Convicted Of Trying To Kill RPD Officer
 

In Rochester, a 55-year-old man was convicted by a Monroe County jury of Attempted Aggravated Murder of a Police Officer, Burglary in the First Degree, two counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree and Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the Fifth Degree for the attempted murder and shooting of Rochester Police Officer Bryan Sheridan, a 15 year veteran of the Rochester Police Department. 

 

Boosters Available For Young Kids Now In New York State

 Governor Kathy Hochul says, the new booster shots for covid, for kids ages five through eleven, are out.  "Parents and guardians across New York can rest assured knowing their children will be able to safely access a tool that protects against serious illness from COVID-19," said Governor Hochul. 

 

Former Clerk In Oddessa, Is Accused Of Embezzling 

New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, Chemung County District Attorney Weeden A. Wetmore and the New York State Police announced former Odessa Village Clerk Kristi Pierce has been charged with Grand Larceny in the Third Degree (D Felony); Defrauding the Government (E Felony); and Official Misconduct (A Misdemeanor) for padding her timesheets to boost her pay. The alleged thefts occurred from 2012 to 2019 and netted Pierce more than $11,000 in pay she was not entitled to.  Officials say that Pierce, 47, allegedly falsified timesheets to make it appear she worked more than 25 hours per week which was the minimum needed to accrue vacation time.   Pierce was arraigned before Judge Scott A. Miller in Schuyler County Court.

 

May 19, 2022, Top Stories

Ceremony For Fallen State Troopers Held Today

This morning at 11am, there was a fallen state trooper ceremony at State Police Headquarters in Batavia.  Among those honored were Bath state Trooper James Conrad, who died November 11th 1966, and State Trooper Joseph Longobardo who was killed by Ralph Phillips in the summer of 2006 in Chautauqua County.   The Steuben County Sheriff’s Office is having a fallen officers ceremony tomorrow in Bath. 

 

Gas Main Replacement Work Is Coming Up In Bath

Bath Electric, Gas and Water Systems has retained Sullivan Trail Construction Co. to replace the gas main on State Route 54 in Bath.  Work is scheduled to begin Monday May 23 weather permitting, and will continue through the month of May into the beginning of June.

 

Everybody Wants To Get In On The New Seat

Well maybe not everybody, but the race for the Tom Reed seat is getting a tad bit crowded.  Steuben County Republican Chairman Joe Sempolinski says it's not just Congresswoman Claudia Tenney either.  "Buffalo Republican Congressman Chris Jacobs is interested in getting into the race," Sempolinski said.  "He is representing the Erie County portion of much of the new district," the Steuben County Republican Chairman explained.  The latest version of the congressional maps will come out on Friday.

 

Beware Of This Scam

There’s a scam going on in Chemung County.  The sheriff’s department there reports that people complain that they’re getting  calls from someone, claiming to be with law enforcement in Elmira, asking for ebay gift cards to pay for outstanding warrant.  The sheriff says this is something that the Chemung County Sheriff’s Office would never do – it’s a scam.

 

Governor Hochul Legislative Reaction To Last Saturday

Governor Kathy is setting up a State Police unit to track domestic violent extremism on social media, and making State Police file for an Extreme Risk Protection Order whenever they have probable cause to believe that an individual is a threat to themselves or others.  The governor is also working with the Legislature to pass laws so that semiautomatic pistols in New York State are microstamp-enabled. The governor is also working to pass a law so that all law enforcement agencies to report the recovery of any crime gun within 24 hours of their discovery.

 

Civil Service Tests In Steuben 

They’re having civil service tests for Steuben County Corrections Officers Exams.  The last day for that is june 8th…Sheriff Jim Allard says, the last five deputies, in Bath, that they hired, came from the corrections officers department.   

Top Stories, May 18, 2022

School Budget/School Board Results:

Bath Central School District: the Budget passed 291-56

Jen Yartym (297 votes) and Olivia Krezenski (282 votes) were each elected to five-year terms.

At Hammondsport Central, the budget passed, prop three the transportation vehicle proposition passed, and William Goodrich won the Hammondsport  school board race, receiving 157 votes. 

The Campbell Savona results: the budget  passed, 188 yes votes, 55 no votes.  Also at Campbell Savona, the library prop passed and Stacie Van Skiver and Gregory Cuh-Case won the school board races.  

In Avoca, the school budget  and other props were approved by the voters.

At Prattsburgh Central the budget passed, there were 104 yes votes and 24 no votes in Prattsburgh.  Terry Moore wins the Prattsburgh Central School race.


Local Dem: Reed's Resignation Is Causing More Chaos

Steuben County Democratic Chairman Shawn Hogan is weighing in on the way Congressman Tom Reed did a sudden resignation announcement last week.   "It's thrown the already confusing political situation into more chaos than it was before, and it was already over complicated with the situation of the new maps and the numerous lawsuits," Hogan stated.  

 

The County IDA's 50th Anniversary

The Steuben County Industrial Development Agency is celebrating their 50th anniversary.  IDA Director Jamie Johnson noted some of the county IDA’s many achievements, including making a recent series of videos for students, about manufacturing jobs in the county. 

 

A Possible Solution To Baby Formula Shortage?

Because of the ongoing baby formula shortage, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand will be introducing of the Emergency Infant Formula Act Gillibrand says that the new legislation will increase domestic production and expand sourcing of formula in order to alleviate the current crisis and prevent future shortages.

Top Stories, May 17, 2022

School Budget/School Board Voting Day Is Here

School Board school budget voting is going on now until 8:00 tonight at local schools.  In Bath, School board member Jennifer Yartym is running unopposed, and Olivia Krezenski will be running unopposed to fill the seat currently held by Mike Warren, who is not running again.  In Prattsburgh, there is one seat open and Terry Moore is running for that.  At Campbell- Savona school board candidates are: school board member Greg Cacase, who is seeking re-election, school board member Stacie van skiver who is running again, and Dale Seeley.  There are two seats available at Campbell Savona.   In Hammondsport, there is only one candidate for school board, William Goodrich running unopposed.  

 

Buffalo Shooting Victims Update

Buffalo area native Governor Kathy Hochul is with the president and Senators Schumer and Gillibrand, in Buffalo today.  The governor is also working towards getting social media companies to report it more quickly, when someone starts to post a violent manifesto online.  Congressman Lee Zeldin, is calling for Hochul to bring back the death penalty for this and other hate crime cases.


District Maps News 

Yesterday the new map master released the first drafts of both the state senate and congressional maps.  Officials say that the second drafts will come out later this week.  The counties listed in the first draft of the new congressional map shows, for the new 23rd district, Steuben, Chemung, Schuyler, Cattaragus, Chautauqua and parts of Erie County.  The new state senate map for this area, the 58th state senate district, shows the following counties: All of Steuben County, some of Allegany, including Alfred, West Almond, Almond, Wellsville, all of Chemung, Seneca, Tioga, Yates and Schuyler Counties.  The second draft will be out Friday.        

May 16, 2022

May 16th Covid Update

There have been 588 new COVID cases reported since last week’s update. The number of new lab cases is down a little from last week and hospitalizations are very low.  Officials say Steuben still remains in the high COVID community level, so masking indoors in public places is still recommended. Other safety measures include getting vaccinated and boosted when eligible, staying home when sick, and testing if you have symptoms, after exposure and after travel.

 

M.A.D.D. Wants More Ignition Interlocks 

Mothers Against Drunk Driving are having a press event at the state capital today, They want the state government to require ignition interlocks for all those who make DWI plea agreements install these devices.

 

Governor Kathy Hochul/Buffalo Update

Governor Kathy Hochul is making 2.8 million dollars in federal and state funding available to the victims and families of victims of the buffalo shooting on Saturday.  The governor says that the Reverend Al Sharpton is helping out with funeral expenses.

Top Stories, May 14, 2022

Update On The Shooting In Buffalo

The suspect is  Payton Gendron, 18, of Conklin, NY, in Broome County.  It’s also being reported that Gendron, did a video-live stream of the shooting.  Buffalo Police say that a total of 13 people were shot, 11 were African-American, two were white.  All evidence at this point, points to Gendron having been influenced by white supremecy websites.  One of those killed, was a former Buffalo Police Officer, who was working as a security guard at the Tops Grocery Store.  Officials say that the security guard did fire his weapon at the suspect, but that the suspect was protected by his body armor.  Three of those shot were also store employees.

From The Justice Dept: The country mourns the victims of a senseless, horrific shooting in Buffalo, New York. The FBI and ATF are working closely with the Buffalo Police Department and federal, state, and local law enforcement partners.  

“The Justice Department is investigating this matter as a hate crime and an act of racially-motivated violent extremism. The Justice Department is committed to conducting a thorough and expeditious investigation into this shooting and to seeking justice for these innocent victims.”

From Governor Kathy Hochul:  My heart breaks for the victims’ families and for everyone impacted by this horrific and despicable act of violence.  NYSP have  set up a family unification site in Buffalo for those separated from loved ones in the wake of today’s shooting. The site is located at Makowski Early Childhood Center, 1095 Jefferson Ave. in Buffalo.

From U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer: I’m actively monitoring the situation with the grocery store shooting in Buffalo. We are standing with the people of Buffalo. If you’re in Buffalo, please follow the guidance of local law enforcement.

From Senator Gillibrand: “My prayers are with the victims of this racially motivated act of violence and my heart goes out to the victims’ loved ones, our emergency personnel and the entire Buffalo community. Racism, prejudice and hatred have no place in our state or our country. I pledge to the people of New York that I will continue to fight my hardest to pass commonsense gun safety measures and to confront and defeat the scourge of white supremacy.”

From Congresswoman Claudia Tenney: I join with New Yorkers and Americans around the country in mourning the lives lost in this brutal and senseless act of violence in Buffalo. Hate and racial animus have no place in our society. Please pray for the survivors as well as the families suffering from this tragedy.


Increase In Covid At Prattsburgh Central

From Prattsburgh Central School: officials say the school has had an recent uptick in COVID-19 cases with faculty, staff, and students.  Prattsburgh school officials ask parents to continue to keep sick students home and communicate with the school nurse regarding any symptoms. Any parent who wants to stop by and pick up a supply of covid tests, should come to the main office.

 

Wild Car Chase In Rochester, Driver Was A Young Child

On May 14, 2022, at approximately 7:51 p.m., a broadcast went out over the police radio for a reckless driver.  The dispatcher relayed information that a child was driving a van east on Jefferson Road near Jefferson Plaza, in the Town of Henrietta.  A Monroe County Sheriff’s deputy observed the minivan rear end a stopped vehicle at a red light.  A child was behind the wheel and continued through the intersection, almost striking several vehicles. The deputy attempted to pull the vehicle over, but the driver refused to stop.  The vehicle continued driving recklessly through Henrietta and into the City of Rochester.  The minivan finally stopped after striking multiple vehicles, including a patrol vehicle on Mt. Hope at Robinson Drive.  The driver was identified as a juvenile and the only occupant of the vehicle.  AMR transported the child to a local hospital for precautionary measures.  No one else was injured.   It was determined the minivan was stolen from Crestwood Child Center. The juvenile was issued an appearance ticket for Grand Larceny 4th.   The investigation continues.

 

Tenney To Run To Succeed Tom Reed

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney said at a GOP get together on Friday night in Olean, that she’s going to run for the special election to succeed Congressman Tom Reed.  We caught up with Steuben County Republican Chairman Joe Sempolinski, who says he is waiting to see what the congressional maps will look like, this coming week.  The maps will be made public in the next few days.

Top Stories, May 13, 2022

Remember The School Board/Budget Vote Is Tues May 17

School board candidate/school budget voting day is Tuesday May 17th.  Voting will be noon till eight Tuesday in Bath, Prattsburgh, Hammondsport and Campbell Savona.

 

Source: Tom Reed's Resignation Took His Staff By Surprise

When Tom Reed’s resigned from the House of Representatives on Tuesday, word is, it came as a big surprise to those in his closest inner circle.  Alfred University Political Science Professor Dr Robert A Heineman is in the loop, and Heineman says, that no one in the office saw it coming.  "It's pretty clear that he did not tell this anybody," Heineman said.  "I've talked with a number of people and there was no communication, whatsoever." 

 

Fighting Fire From Far Enough Away

Steuben County Legislative Chair Scott Van Etten stated that, “we’ve got to do something,” to help towns and villages who rely on out of town/ paid for, ambulance and fire services.  County officials say that on the one hand, places like Bath, are providing these services to smaller towns outside their areas.  On the other hand, it’s not free and some in those less populated towns sometimes worry about the possible expenses when they call 9-1-1.  County officials say this is a statewide problem.  The Steuben County Public Safety and Corrections Committee says they’ll look for ways to address this.


Videos Of Local Factories Are Being Seen By Students

The Steuben County IDA has sentut videos to schools across the county today, videos about careers in manufacturing, to encourage interested students to go in that direction.  Among the companies featured in these videoes are: Instant Brands  Alstom Siemens Energy  Gunlocke Upstate Niagara Cooperative, Inc.  and Corning Incorporated.

May 12, 2022

Palmesano Keeps Bath On His Legislative Maps

On the state assembly maps that Judge McAllister is staying with: the maps approved by Governor Kathy Hochul, here’s what it means for Assemblyman Phil Palmesano: Palemsano will still represent Bath and Avoca.  Palmesano will also get Hornell and Corning back, and represent Schuyler and Yates Counties, and parts of Chemung and Seneca Counties. 

 

Rep. Tenney's Wall Street Journal Article 

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney has an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal about fracking.  Tenney says that the Utica Shale stretches from her congressional district into Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Maryland and Ohio. It contains 38 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, 940 million barrels of oil and 208 million barrels of natural-gas liquids.  Tenney says we cannot touch these rich resources because of former governor Cuomo.

 

Why Cuomo Is - All Of The Sudden - Backing Away

Andrew Cuomo might not be getting into the governor’s race this year after all.  Steuben County Republican Chairman Joe Sempolinski says that Cuomo spent between $2 - $3 million dollars on tv commercials and then did not sign up with the state to actually run.  The reason, according to Sempolinski, is that Cuomo does a lot of polling, and probably found out that running for governor again, would not be successful. 

 

Law Enforcement Agreements - Just Have To Be Inked

Governor Kathy Hochul says there’s a contract agreement with the New York State Law Enforcement Officers Union, Council 82, AFL-CIO for a 7-year term. The agreement is subject to ratification by union membership, which the governor says will happen later this month.  This  includes a two percent salary increase for each year of the 7-year agreement.

Top Stories May 11 2022

Maps Update

In a groundbreaking case that will determine the next decade of elections in our state, Judge McAllister has denied intervention from both the Democrats and Republicans. That means unless the Democrats and/or Republicans appeal this case and win, the state assembly maps as approved by Governor Hochul, will remain the same.  Both McAllister and the State Elections Board said this morning that they will work towards an August 23 primary. 

 

Sempolinski: I'm In For The Special Election

Steuben County Republican Chair Joe Sempolinski issued a statement saying that as former head district level congressional staffer for this region, there is no one who knows this area better than he does.  Sempolinski also says, he’s already reached out to the party leadership to let them know he’s interested in this position.  Congressman Tom Reed resigned from Congress yesterday afternoon to take a job with a Washington lobbyist firm that deals with bi-partisan issues.

 

Schumer Predicts Roe V Wade Will Be Struck Down

This morning on the senate floor, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer talked about how it’s quite likely that the Supreme Court in Washington will strike down Roe V Wade.

Also, as for the protests outside the Supreme Court Justice’s homes this past weekend, Senator Schumer says that happens outside his house about three or four times a week.  Schumer says as long as it isn’t violent, it’s allowed.

 

Big Company Out Of Texas Buys T&R Towing

A company called Fleet Pride, which is the nation's largest distributor of truck and trailer parts and service in the independent heavy duty aftermarket, announced Tuesday that it has acquired the assets of T&R Towing and Service Centers in Bath.

 

National Nurses Week

Steuben County Public Health issued a statement thanking local nurses, as this is national nurses week.  The County says quote “we cannot thank our amazing nurses enough for all they do day in and day out, especially over the last several years.  We are also beyond grateful to all the nurses who volunteered to help us throughout the pandemic.”

 

Top Stories, May 10, 2022

Serious Assault In Bath, Victim Taken To Strong Hospital

 

State Police have released a story about how, on May 9,  at approximately 8:45 p.m., there was a serious assault at the on Rte 415 in Bath.   Troopers say, that when they arrived, they discovered that Jonathan Ruggles, age 33, had been assaulted, allegedly by Jose Velez, age 41.  Ruggles was airlifted to Strong Hospital with life-threatening-injuries.  State Police, after conferring with the Steuben County DA, Brooks Baker, charged Velez with Burglary 1st Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon 3rd Degree,.  The investigation is continuing, and additional charges are pending.

 

Reed Calls It Quits In Congress

Congressman Reed has resigned from Congress, effective today, May 10, 2022. Our office will continue to serve the people of New York’s 23rd District through the end of the year or until a new representative is elected and sworn in.  Reed’s spokesman says Reed will be joining Charlie Black at the Prime Policy Group, Washington, DC.  The Prime Policy Group focuses on bipartisan politics, something Reed spoke of much during his years in the House: Reed was co-founder of the Problem Solvers Caucus, which worked both sides of the aisle. County GOP Chairman Joe Sempolinski tells us, if there is a special election to fill out the remainder of the term for the Reed seat, that he will run.  "If there’s a special  I’m all in," Sempolinski stated. 


Assembly Maps Update

In Steuben County Court Judge Pat McAllister’s courtroom today, both the Democrats and Republicans lawsuits were heard.  One of the Democrat's attorneys said that the Republicans argument about the approved assembly maps, being  constitutional, was a “conspiracy theory”.  Democrats said the assembly maps were unfair and would lead to future voter fraud situations.  and that both parties Democrat and Republican had made a secret deal.  Republican Attorney George Winner claims that the accusations made against them about a “deal” is outrageous and untrue.  "There is not proof this back room deal happened," Winner said.  Judge McAllister has reserved his right to make a decision involving redrawing the assembly maps in written form, tomorrow, Wednesday May 11.

Top Stories, May 9, 2022

Steuben County Covid Update, May 9, 2022

635 new COVID positive tests have been reported since our last update, and Steuben remains in the high community level.

All county residents are encouraged to take the following protective measures when the level is high:

1. Wear a mask indoors in public.

2. Stay up to date with COVID vaccines and boosters

 

A Bad Fire On Saturday In Savona

There was a fire at Savona Storage on Saturday….two buildings were destroyed, there were no injuries reported. 

 

McAllister's Court Continues To Draw Attention Statewide

Tuesday is another big day in Steuben County Court Judge’s Pat McAllister’s courtroom.  McAllister is having the New York City Young Republicans in his courtroom, to hear their case against the state assembly maps approved by Governor Kathy Hochul.  The Young Republicans Club’s argument was that they don’t like the process on how the maps were drawn.  Lots of reporters from major media outlets are covering these legislative map stories.

 

Governor Kathy Hochul Has The Covid  

The Governor has come down with the covid.  Governor Hochul noted that it’s an asymptomatic case but canceled her trip to Washington dc and will be staying in Albany and will be isolating.

 

GOP Infighting, In TV Commercials In The Gov's Race

The New York Post reports, that GOP front runner in the governor’s race Lee Zeldin, is the topic of a Harry Wilson tv commercial these days.  Harry Wilson is a New York City millionaire who is also running for governor.  Wilson’s new tv commercial is playing old clips of Lee Zeldin praising governor Andrew Cuomo back in 2011.  Zeldin’s campaign says, Harry Wilson refused to vote for Donald Trump and that Harry Wilson is the liberal, not Zeldin.

Top Stories, May 6, 2022

Bath Mayor Pleased With Bath's Economic Development

Bath Village Mayor Mike Sweet said today, that the investments and new stores keep coming in to Bath.  And Mayor Sweet says, keep it coming!

 

Laker-opoly Fundraiser For Hammondsport Central 

The Hammondsport Alumni Association is sponsoring Laker-opoly in the Hammondsport Village Square on Saturday, May 21.  They say this is a fund raiser for the Alumni scholarship program.

 

Horseheads Student Wins Congressional Art Contest

Congressman Tom Reed announced the winner of the 2022 Congressional High School Art Competition for the New York 23rd district. This year’s winner is Emry Ardley, a 12th grader at Horseheads High School, with his piece "Fallacy of War." Emry's artwork will be on display in the United States Capitol for one year in the Cannon Tunnel.

 

RPD: We Have A Lack Of Officers And Need More Patrols 

Rochester Police say, they have a staffing shortage, and the RPD are going to be relying more on New York State Troopers and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department, for assistance in getting extra patrols out there.  Rochester Police say there has been a big increase in shootings and they want extra patrols there.

Top Stories, May 5, 2022

And Yet Another Lawsuit Over The State Legislative Maps 

A lawsuit was filed in a federal court to stop the primary from happening in August.  That was on Wednesday, and a federal judge threw it out.  According to State Senator Tom O’Mara, there was a part of the lawsuit, that called for grouping all the congressional seats together, instead of having district lines. O’Mara maintains, that would have, had the judge not thrown the case out, given a lot more power to New York City Dems.  "The Democrat Congressional Campaign Committee," O'Mara said, "were trying to get a federal court to say 'no, you can't move that primary to August.  They also wanted the federal judge to follow some law from the 1950's out there that says because the state doesn't have their congressional maps ready in time for the November election, they should run all the congressional seats at once, together at large.  That's so that everyone would be running as candidates together (so it would be one party against another party, not one candidate against another candiate).   It's been nothing short of arrogant." 

As a result of that lawsuit being tossed out of a federal court on Wednesday, it's likely that Steuben County Judge Pat McAllister will be able to decide, when the primary date will be.

 

Bridge Work Is Coming Up Monday In Prattsburgh

This reminder: officials say that the bridge on County Route 9, Twelve Mile Creek Road, crossing Twelve Mile Creek in the Town of Prattsburgh will be closed to all through traffic on or about Monday, May 9.  Work there will last for approximately five months. The bridge is located between Babcock and Chapman roads and will be removed and completely replaced with a new bridge. There will be an on-site detour.

 

A New Law About Late College Bills In New York State

Governor Kathy Hochul’s signed a law, to prevent colleges from being able to withhold transcripts from students, just because the student is behind in paying their bills to that college.    

Also, the state legislature is working to pass a law, to override a recent court of appeals decision that allows banks to foreclose on those who are behind in their mortgage payments.

 

Borrello: Why Do We Need This New Agency? 

Jamestown Republican State Senator George Borrello is objecting to the state legislature working towards creating a new agency, called the Office For An Age Friendly New York.  Borrello says, there is already an office for the aging, and this new agency would be redundant.

Top Stories, May 4, 2022

Bath School Budget Update 

Bath School Superintendent Joe Rumsey tells Wvin news, that the Bath Central School budget, is a $39.9 million dollar budget.  According to Rumsey, this results in an increase of 2.71% in the tax levy, which falls under the state required tax cap. Rumsey says, that this is a small increase to the tax levy, and will likely result in a relatively flat tax rate for the upcoming school year based on property assessments.  Bath voters will decide on the budget, May 17. 

 

Tonya Smith/Donnie Masti Case Update

According to Steuben County District Attorney Brooks Baker, the defense attorney for Tonya Smith has turned in the written version of the closing statements, and the prosecution is working on a rebuttal.  This indicates that the case will be coming to a conclusion sometime soon.   Smith is the Painted Post woman who is accused of killing 66 year old Donald Masti in 2019.The D.A. also says, Derrick Clark of Wayland, was sentenced to six to ten years in prison, after being convicted of accidentally killing his young daughter in an accident, while under the influence of drugs. 

 

Another Maps Case, To Be Heard By Judge Pat McAllister 

There’s a lot going on in the case of the legislative maps. There is an upcoming court on Tuesday at 930am, when Judge McAllister will be having the New York City Young Republicans in Court, to voice their objections to the state’s assembly maps.  Also, the Democrats, have filed a lawsuit in a New York City federal court the recent court of appeals decision to allow Judge McAllister to move the primary. 

Top Stories, May 3, 2022

May 3 2022

 

There Is A New Lt Governor For New York State

Governor Kathy Hochul has named as her new Lt Governor, Catskills area congressman Antonio Delagado.  Delagado is taking the place of former Lt Governor Brian Benjamin.  Benjamin resigned several weeks ago because he’s the subject of a federal investigation.  Upstate Republicans like State Senator Tom O’Mara are voicing their objections to Governor Kathy Hochul being able to change the rules, and get a new name on the ticket this close to the election.  The GOP argues that the rules were changed just to accommodate the governor, and no one else.

 

The State Teachers Union Really Likes Delagado 

“Congressman Delgado is a dedicated ally of NYSUT members and working people, championing COVID-19 relief funding, the vital role of public education in our society and the public servants who dedicate themselves to bettering their communities. We congratulate him on his appointment and look forward to continuing to work with Gov. Hochul and her administration to support our public schools, colleges and hospitals as the center of every community.” 

 

A Bath Man Is Accused Of Meth Possession

Bath Village Police Chief Colin Taft reports that Bath Police charged Anthony Swimley, 38 of Bath, with 3rd degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and second degree criminal obstruction of governmental administration.  Police allege that Swimley had a lot of meth on him when he was arrested, and that he tried to get away from them on his bike, when they tried to stop him originally. 

 

Wineglass Event Is Coming Up In Corning This Fall

Wineglass organizers are pleased to announce that Storflex will be the new title sponsor for the Wineglass 5K.   The tenth annual Storflex 5K is Saturday, October 1, 2022, at 8:00 am. This family-friendly 5K is a great warm-up event for anyone running the full or half marathon Sunday. It's the second race (of three) for those participating in the Riesling or Pinot Challenge. Runners will toe the start line for a flat, out, and back course that starts and finishes near War Memorial Stadium at Corning Painted-Post High School. All finishers will receive a medal.  Ian May, CEO of Storflex, said, "We are excited to be involved in Wineglass Weekend and look forward to this ongoing partnership and participating in this important event. We are pleased to be part of the Corning community."

Top Stories, May 2, 2022

Another Map Case In Steuben County Court? 

New York City area Democrat political activist Gary Greenberg, is trying to get a law suit to be heard, in Steuben County Judge Pat McAllister’s court.  Greenberg is filing a lawsuit to get the New York State Assembly maps thrown out too, like the State Senate and Congressional maps were recently, originally by Judge McAllister.  That was a ruling that was upheld by both midlevel Appellate Court judge Lindley, and by five State Court of Appeals judges.

 

The Success From Drug Take Back Day In Bath

The joint effort of the Steuben County Sheriff and Steuben Prevention Coalition Opioid Committee to collect unused and unneeded medication brought in 606.4 pounds during Drug Take Back Day held Saturday at the county Public Safety Building in Bath. The event has been highly successful in recent years. During an October 2021 event, the joint effort brought in 781 pounds. The importance of the day has never been greater. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the COVID-19 pandemic has had a dramatic impact on opioid addictions. The U.S. has seen an increase in overdose deaths during the pandemic, with 83,544 Americans overdosing during the 12-month period ending July 1, 2020, the most ever recorded in a 12-month period, the CDC said. While the increase in overdose deaths began prior to pandemic, it accelerated significantly during the first months of the pandemic, the CDC reported.

 

Steuben County Covid Update, May 2, 2022

From County Public Health Director Darlene Smith:

COVID cases are continuing to trend upward with 520 new COVID cases reported since last Monday's update. Sadly, another resident has passed: a 74 year old Town of Erwin man.

In line with NYSDOH, we are asking hospitals to let us know if COVID positive patients are admitted due to COVID or with COVID. Some patients are admitted for COVID reasons or because of COVID complications (due to COVID), while others may be admitted for non-COVID reasons, but have tested positive for COVID (with COVID). You can see this added element on the hospitalized line of the graphic.

We would like to reopen commenting by the public so that people can interact again. We will give this a trial period. If there are a lot of comments spreading misinformation, using inappropriate or aggressive langue, or verbally attacking others, we will have to disable comments again. Please be kind, courteous, and caring towards each other. Let this be a forum for legitimate discussions and questions.

On Air Now

Dave Taylor Smith
Dave Taylor Smith
6:00am - 9:00am
The Morning Show

Weather

Community, News & Media