15 new COVID-19 cases in Steuben County

The Steuben County Public Health Department received notification that 15 Steuben County residents have tested positive for COVID-19.  This brings the total to 425 confirmed cases, 79 of which are currently active. Seven of the individuals are residents of the City of Corning, three residents of the Village of Addison, and a resident of the Town of Campbell, the Town of Caton, Town of Erwin, Village of Bath, and the Village of Painted Post. The individuals are isolated and being monitored by the County Health Department. Public Health staff investigated and identified close contacts of the confirmed cases and exposure risks. All those known to have direct contact with the individuals have been notified. An investigation revealed eight individuals are employees of Corning Center, two individuals had contact with Chemung County positives, one individual had contact with a previously reported Steuben positive, One individual had contact with Corning Centers residents, and one individual is an employee of GST BOCES and has visited the following school districts: Bath, Hammondsport, Jasper-Troupsburg, Prattsburgh, and Phoenix Academy on the BOCES Bush Campus.

Multiple shot after shooting on west side of Elmira

Police responded late last night to a reported shooting in the City of Elmira. The incident took place just after 10:30 p.m. outside a home on the 500 block of West Second Street. Witnesses said multiple people were shot, although the exact number of victims and their status remains unclear at this time.

Construction bid, Hall of Fame nominees on the agenda for Steuben County Legislature meeting

Confirmation of the Candidates for the 2020 Steuben County Hall of Fame is among one of the items on the agenda for the Steuben County Legislature as they are set to meet in a regular, publicly teleconferenced session on 10 a.m., Monday the 28^th in their chambers in the County Annex, 20 East Morris Street. Since 1976, nearly 460 have been nominated and 149 have been inducted into the Steuben County Hall of Fame. Due to restrictions on social gatherings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a reception for this year’s inductees will be held at a later date. Other agenda items include awarding a total of $6.1 million to low bidders for the Phase II Court and County Offices Renovation Project, accepting and appropriating the Emergency Solutions Grant, accepting the 2020 State Homeland Security Program Grant, accepting the 2020 Emergency Management Performance Grant, and · Presenting the Steuben County Hazard Mitigation Plan, with a public hearing scheduled for 10 a.m., October 26^th.

Two Livingston County residents arrested for sale of prescription drugs

Carolynn C. Hedges, age 49, was arrested on September 18^th and Raymond Salters Sr., age 56, was arrested on September 22nd by members of the Livingston County Drug Task Force. Hedges was charged on a Livingston County Superior Court indictment with two counts of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, a class B felony, and two counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, also a class B felony. Salters was charged on a Livingston County Superior Court indictment with four counts of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, a class B felony, and four counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, also a class B felony. The arrests and investigations alleged the sale of prescription pain killers in the form of oxycodone in the Geneseo area. Both were arraigned on the indictment warrant in Livingston County Court and released on their own recognizance.

Today is free fishing day in NYS

As a celebration of sorts for National Hunting and Fishing Day, New Yorkers without a license can fish for free today. Although license requirements will be waived today, all other regulations will remain in effect. The same goes for COVID-19 safety protocols, like following social distancing guidelines, and wearing a mask if you are unable to do so.

After a massive explosion and fire yesterday afternoon at T & R Environmental Services Haz Mat building next to T & R Towing on Route 415 in the Village of Bath, the investigation continues. The enormous black blaze caused sixteen fire departments to respond and nearby homes to evacuate. Several large fireballs went high into the sky from the exploding barrels of oil in the building. Fred Roberts Auto Parts was also damaged. The blaze took roughly 4 hours to control. 

A 32-year-old Bath man was charged with felony counts of criminal sale and possession of a controlled substance. Court action is also pending for several other drug charges against Shane Wood of Delaware Street from recent months. He was released without bail in those cases. 

Yesterday, Steuben County Public Health Department reported 32 new cases of COVID-19 countywide and one case includes a Campbell-Savona School student. Out of the 32 cases, 29 are City of Corning residents while other cases are from the towns of Bath, Erwin and Corning. Of the 32 cases, 28 are Corning Center residents or staff. Campbell-Savona students and staff found to have direct contact wiht a COVID-positive student will be notified by the school and quarantined. Any school-related questions will be directed to the district.

Steuben County Emergency officials warn residents that warm temperatures paired with brisk winds and dry conditions can increase the risk of potential wildfires in the county. Emergency Services Director Tim Marshall said the major concern at this time is unprotected timber and brush lots as well as tall, grassy areas. The DEC and local firefighters have been responding to increasing brush fires this past weekend, with many of them caused by careless burning. Residents who camp, hike and hunt are urged to never leave their fires unattended.

The Equality PAC has endorsed Democratic Congressional Candidate Tracy Mitrano in her run for the 23rd Congressional District Seat. Equality PAC helps elect openly-LGBT allies to the US Congress and Senate. If Mitrano wins and unseats Congressman Tom Reed, she would become the first openly-gay woman to represent a New York district in Congress.

Prattsburgh Central School District has been closed for today and according to a Facebook post by School Superintendent Kory Bay it was to work through a situation with the county Health Department. COVID-19 was not mentioned in his statement but Bay did say the district will take every precaution necessary to ensure safety and will release more information as it becomes available. Campbell-Savona Central school is closed for the day also after a student there tested positive for COVID-19. 

Congressman Tom Reed said there will be at least one debate with his challenger Tracy Mitrano before the general election on November 3rd. Reed said he never opposed debating Mitrano and took a shot at the Penn Yan Democrat, claiming "You can't trust Tracy." Mitrano said Reed's agreement to a single debate days before the election on October 27th as too little, too late.

Bath VA Offering Vaccines
The Bath VA Medical Center will offer vaccines September 23^rd-24^th and 30^th and October 7^th-8^th, 14^th-15^th and 21^st-22^nd. Sessions will take place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Leisure Room these days. For information: bath.va.gov.

Steuben Reports Four New COVID Cases
The Steuben County Public Health Department received notification four Steuben County residents tested positive for COVID-19 and brings the total to 373 confirmed cases, 31 of which are currently active.  Two individuals are residents of the: City of Corning and one each from the Town of Addison and Town of Campbell.

Hornell Man Arrested for Alleged Drug Trafficking
Steuben County Sheriff’s deputies arrested Adam J. Carbonell, age 30, of Hornell after an investigation by the Sheriff’s Office, Village of Bath and City of Corning Police Departments into alleged narcotics trafficking. It is alleged that Mr. Carbonell trafficked narcotics in the Hornell area. Carbonell was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree. Mr. Carbonell was held in the Steuben County Jail pending arraignment in Steuben County Court, where he was remanded to the Steuben County Jail in lieu of $500 cash bail.

Teen Boy Injured in Penn Yan Bike Accident Yesterday
Yesterday, in the Village of Penn Yan, a teenage boy was airlifted to Strong Memorial Hospital after being involved in a bicycle accident. The 16-year-old rode his bike on North Avenue then hit a storm drain causing his bicycle to lose its front wheel. He was thrown from the bike and suffered significant injuries. Due to a head injury, the teen was airlifted from the scene. Village Police say the boy was not wearing a helmet when the accident happened.

Charter Spectrum Renews 60 Day Free WiFi for Student Households
Charter Spectrum is renewing its offer for 60 days of free Wi-Fi service for households with K-12 or college students six months after the original offer at the beginning of the COVID-19 Pandemic.The offer applies to households in the company’s service area that do not already have Spectrum service. It does not apply to households where the company does not currently have service. After 60 days regular rates will apply. The company also has a program called Spectrum Internet Assist for low income households and seniors that costs $14.99 per month and includes a free modem, a broadband connection at 30 megabits per second, and an option to add Wi-Fi accessibility at $5 per month.
To enroll call (844) 310-1198. A free self-installation kit will be provided to each qualifying household.

NYS Extends Moratorium on Evictions to October
This week, New York State announced an extension of the state’s moratorium on COVID-related commercial evictions to now run through October 20^th. Protections are extended by the measure already in place for commercial tenants and mortgagors in recognition of the financial toll the pandemic has taken on business owners. The protection extension gives commercial tenants and mortgagors additional time to catch up on rent or mortgages or renegotiate their lease terms in order to prevent foreclosure. The measure was implemented in mid-March.

Five States Added to NYS Travel Advisory
Five new states including Arizona, Minnesota, Nevada, Rhode Island, and Wyoming-have been added to New York State’s COVID-19 travel advisory. The advisory requires those who have traveled to New York from areas with significant community spread to quarantine for 14 days.

The latest travel advisory list:

· Alabama
· Alaska
· Arkansas
· Arizona
· Delaware
· Florida
· Georgia
· Guam
· Idaho
· Illinois
· Indiana
· Iowa
· Kansas
· Kentucky
· Louisiana
· Minnesota
· Missouri
· Mississippi
· Montana
· North Carolina
· North Dakota
· Nebraska
· Nevada
· Oklahoma
· Puerto Rico
· Rhode Island
· South Carolina
· South Dakota
· Tennessee
· Texas
· Utah
· Virginia
· Wisconsin
· West Virginia
· Wyoming

Mike Sweet Sworn In As Bath Mayor
Mike Sweet has officially been sworn in as Bath’s new Mayor. He ran his first meeting last night and told the Board of Trustees that one of the top priorities is to attract new business to the village. Karen Causer and Jeff Muller were also sworn in as board members. Other priorities include making Bath a destination point, taking advantage of the tourism trade. In other business, the board also approved Halloween trick or trick being October 31st from 6-8pm.

BEGWS Announced Closures for Gas Main Replacement
Bath Electric, Gas and Water Systems announces they will be replacing the gas main and services on Fowler Street, from East William Street to the end. To protect the public and workers, the street will be closed. Local access and access for emergency vehicles will be maintained during construction. The intersection of East William Street and Fowler Street will be closed for a short duration as the crew cuts the pavement and ties into to the existing gas main on East William Street. Work is scheduled to commence at the beginning of October, and will continue through the end of month.
Any questions can be directed to Bath Electric, Gas and Water Systems at (607) 776-2173, Option 2.

Steuben Sees COVID Spike with 27 Cases
Steuben County is now dealing with 27 active COVID-19 cases. An increase was reported after health officials announced yesterday afternoon that three new cases were confirmed. Two people from the City of Corning tested positive as did a person from Caton. Steuben has had a total of 369 cases since March. The investigations indicate two individuals are residents of Corning Center and one individual is an employee of Corning Center. Corning Center is testing all staff and residents to identify any cases that are still unknown to contain the spread. Public Health Director Darlene Smith says everyone must continue to do their part in helping slow the spread of the virus.

DOT Announces Route 36 Closure
The New York State Department of Transportation advises motorists to continue to expect lane closures along five miles of Route 36 in the Town of Canisteo, from the Village of Canisteo line to Rock Run Road. The work will continue through the end of month as crews work on a pavement rehabilitation project. Two-way traffic will be maintained on Route 36 with alternating single-lane closures and on-site flagging personnel. Motorists may experience delays during this time and are advised to seek an alternate route. No detours will be posted as part of the construction.

Low Census Participation Caused Loss of Districts in NY
The deadline for completing the 2020 Census form is September 30^th, and state officials warn New York’s population is in danger of being undercounted. Democratic congressional candidate Tracy Mitrano called on district residents to turn in their forms, while claiming incumbent Republican Tom Reed did little to promote the effort. Participation in the 23^rd Congressional District averages at 58.5 percent. Steuben County has a similar participation rate of 60 percent. In some counties in New York, less than half the residents have returned their census forms. “New York has been losing districts for the last 10 to 20 years,” said Mitrano. “We are probably poised to lose at least one if not two more districts because of these poor results.” She also said Congressman Reed needs to reach out to citizens to encourage participation and make sure the people in his district are going to get the services that they need—services that many of them have paid for with their taxes.

CDC Outlines Halloween Festivities By Risk
While Governor Cuomo last week said he wouldn’t prevent families from trick-or-treating this Halloween, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued guidance outlining a range of the holidays’ various festivities while categorizing a number of activities as high, moderate, and low risk. Activities in the high risk category include: traditional trick-or-treating, crowded indoor costume parties, indoor haunted houses, hay rides or tractor rides, and fall festivals that are not in your immediate community. Moderate-risk activities include one-way trick-or-treating, costume parties where people can remain six feet apart, open-air, one-way walk-through haunted forest visits, and visiting pumpkin patches or going apple picking. Low-risk festivities include pumpkin carving, decorating a house or living space, holding a virtual Halloween costume contest, or hosting a household Halloween movie night. Bath approved Trick-or-Treating for October 31^st from 6 to 8pm.

Ten New COVID Cases Reported in Steuben
Yesterday afternoon, ten new positive cases of COVID-19 were reported by Steuben County Health officials. The local health department is now dealing with 25 active cases. Four people from the City of Corning were infected, two from Campbell and one each from Freemont, Jasper and the villages of Hammondsport and Savona. Four individuals are residents of Corning Center and two individuals are staff members of Corning Center. Steuben County Public health Director Darlene Smith said it is clear that COVID-19 has reached the level of community spread in Steuben. She added that Steuben has not seen this number of cases in one month since April.

County Legislature Proclaims This Week Sheriff’s Week
The Steuben County Legislature proclaimed this week of September 20th through the 26th, 2020, as Sheriffs’ Week in Steuben County, and call upon all citizens of the county to honor and celebrate the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office and all its personnel.

Truck Rolls Over on County Route 10
A County Route 10 accident Saturday evening resulted in only minor injuries reported. Just below the Windfall Road on the Town of Bath on County Route 10, a pickup truck rolled over. The Bath Fire Chief arrived and reported a male occupant was inside the vehicle, but was able to crawl out. EMS evaluated the driver on-scene and he was treated for minor injuries.

DEC Announces Small Game Hunting Seasons
Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announces several small game hunting seasons open October 1st across the state, including special youth hunts and new hunting opportunities for active duty military members and veterans. Several special youth-only hunting seasons for pheasants and waterfowl occur prior to the start of the regular season. You can find Season dates, bag limits, and other hunting regulations for New York’s small game species listed under the Hunting and Trapping Regulations Guide, which can be obtained from a license-issuing agent or on DEC’s website.

Officials Form Commission to Investigate COVID Nursing Home Deaths
Despite holding hearings on New York’s COVID-19 nursing home crisis, state officials have yet to pin-down exactly how many have died in nursing homes because of the virus. A group of lawmakers from both sides of the political aisle announced they will work to form an independent commission to investigate with the goal get answers from the state’s Department of Health. Last week, an online petition was announced to build public support for the commission. The idea received both Democratic and Republican support in the state assembly.

State Settlement Sparks Absentee Ballot Reform
A new settlement between New York State officials and the League of Women Voters could prevent absentee ballots from being rejected in the state and expands correction options for absentee voting. The agreement establishes a process to ensure that voters’ ballots will not be rejected without their knowledge and give them the ability to fix the error. Voters will be contacted in the event there is a technical issue with their ballot, or if it’s rejected in general. Over 84,000 ballots in New York City alone were rejected in the June primary elections. 

Two new cases of COVID-19 in Steuben County

The Steuben County Public Health Department has received notification that two Steuben County residents have tested positive for COVID-19. The individuals are residents of the Town of Prattsburgh and the village of Bath. The individuals are isolated and being monitored by the County Health Department.  Public Health staff investigated and identified close contacts of the confirmed cases and exposure risks.  All those known to have direct contact with the individuals have been notified.

First student tests positive for COVID-19 in Steuben County

The Steuben County Public Health Department received notification also that a student from Jasper-Troupsburg Elementary School has tested positive for COVID-19.  This is the first student to test positive in Steuben County and brings the total to 356 confirmed cases, 17 of which are currently active.  The student is a resident of the Town of Troupsburg. The student is isolated and being monitored by the County Health Department.  Public Health staff worked with school officials to investigate and identify close contacts of the confirmed case and exposure risks.  All those known to have direct contact with the student have been reached out to by Public Health and/or the school. Classmates, affected teachers, and contacts from the school bus are being quarantined. The student last attended class on Friday, September 11^th and began showing symptoms on Sunday, September 13^th.

Paving work to continue in Canisteo

The New York State Department of Transportation is advising motorists to prepare for lane closures along 5 miles of Route 36 in the Town of Canisteo. The paving project will run from Village of Canisteo line to Rock Run Road. The project is slated to run through the end of September, weather permitting. Two-way traffic will be maintained on Route 36 with alternating single-lane closures and on-site flagging personnel. No detours will be offered as part of the construction. Motorists are advised to seek a different route.

Candlelight vigil held for late Justice Ginsburg in Corning

After news of the death of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg broke late Friday evening, several dozen mourners came together for a candlelight vigil at Card Carrying Books & Gifts on Corning’s Market Street to honor the late Justice and to commemorate her achievements and legacy on the U.S. Supreme Court. Ginsburg passed away at age 87 at her Washington home due to complications from metastatic pancreatic cancer. The late Justice did have connections to the Finger Lakes region, having graduated from Cornell University in 1954, where she also met her husband Martin who passed away in 2010.

NYS Senator pushes for independent investigation on nursing homes

New York State Senator Tom O’Mara, the ranking member on the Senate Investigations Committee, yesterday renewed his call for an independent investigation into how New York’s COVID-19 response impacted nursing homes, where at least 6,500 residents have died over the past six months. O’Mara and his Senate GOP colleagues have also rolled out a new online petition to allow their constituents to help join the fight for an independent investigation. Said petition can be found on O’Mara’s Senate website.

Steuben County Traffic Safety Board to hold meeting September 25^th

The Steuben County Traffic Safety Board will hold a meeting next Friday, September 25^th. The agenda for the meeting can be found on www.steubencony.org. The meeting will be held in the Legislative Chambers on the 3rd Floor of the Annex Building for Board Members, Legislators and invited staff only, and will also be held via teleconference for remaining staff, members of the public and the media.

Canisteo Woman Sentenced for Benton Crash
A 34-year-old Canisteo woman woman has been sentenced to 1-to-3 years in prison for her role in a two-car accident in Benton in April 2019 that injured her and the other driver. Danielle Sexton was sentenced by Judge Jason Cook after pleading guilty to felony charges of vehicular assault and driving while ability impaired. Sexton was driving north on Ferguson Corners Road when she failed to stop at a stop sign at the intersection of Hall Road and struck a westbound car driven by William Spears, of Penn Yan. The impact sent both cars off the road where they struck two parked vehicles and a garbage dumpster. She admitted to being under the influence of several drugs at the time of the accident, including fentanyl.

NWS Issues Frost Advisory To Tomorrow Morning
The National Weather Service has issued a Frost Advisory for Steuben County in effect tonight from midnight until 8 a.m. tomorrow (Saturday).

Elmira Woman Arrested for Smuggling Contraband Into County Jail
Steuben County Sheriff’s Office reports that on September 16th, deputies arrested 28-year-old Ashley M. Hamilton of Elmira. While being admitted to the Steuben County Jail on unrelated charges, Hamilton allegedly smuggled dangerous contraband into the Steuben County Jail, having secreted it on, and in, her person. Correction Officers, during her intake process, recovered an amount of suspected methamphetamine and cash secreted on her person. She was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Second Degree, Tampering with Physical Evidence, and Introducing Dangerous Contraband into a Prison in the First Degree, all felony charges. Hamilton was arraigned and held in lieu of $2,000 cash bail and will appear in the Bath Town Court at a later date.

Dormann Library Hosting Outdoor Movie Tonight
The Dormann Library invites the public to a socially-distanced Card Board Box Car Drive-In Movie tonight. The Secret Life of Pets 2 will be shown outside on the Dormann Library lawn starting at 7:00pm. The library encourages pre-registration to make sure to stay under the 50 person limit. Kids can bring a large cardboard box or laundry basket to sit in as well as blankets in case it’s chilly out. Free books for the kids, too as well as pizza, popcorn and hot chocolate.Those who register will get a coupon from Angry Oven.

DEC Announced Enforcement of Bag Ban Starts 10/19
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos announced today the DEC will begin enforcement of the State’s ban on single-use plastic carryout bags next month beginning October 19th. The plastic bag ban went into effect on March 1^st yet was not enforced per an agreement between the parties in a lawsuit brought by Poly-Pak Industries, Inc., et al, in New York State Supreme Court. For more information about the plastic bag ban, reusable bags, or to file a complaint about entities using single-use plastic carryout bags, visit DEC’s website, email plasticbags@dec.ny.gov, or call (518) 402-8706.

Five New COVID Cases in Steuben
Officials say the county has logged five new COVID-19 cases. Public Health Director Darlene Smith calls the trend “alarming” and says …“In the last week Steuben County has had almost the number of COVID-19 cases that it did in all of August.” Of those mostly recently infected…three are from the City of Corning, one is from Hornellsville and the fifth if from the Town of Corning.

Steuben Reports Two More COVID Cases
The Steuben County Public Health Department reports two County residents tested positive for COVID-19 which brings the total to 348 confirmed cases, 16 of which are currently active. Individuals are residents of the towns of Campbell and Corning. Officials say the individuals are isolated and being monitored by the County Health Department. All those known to have direct contact with the individuals have been notified. Public Health Director, Darlene Smith said she is concerned that people may be starting to relax their prevention efforts in their daily lives.

County Police Reform is Underway; Feedback Encouraged Via Survey
Police reform in Steuben County is well under way, according to Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard. Allard recently told the county Legislature’s Public Safety and Corrections Committee the core working group has met with stakeholders and special interest groups as part of their review. The review looks at current police deployments, procedures, policies and practices in Steuben in line with Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s police reform directive June 12th. Allard said of the group launched in early August: “Personally, I have been able to understand more clearly the challenges our citizens face daily due to their race, ethnicity, or gender identity. The ability to communicate in a setting of collaboration and partnership has been enlightening for all of us…” Allard encourages the public to give their feedback by completing the online survey at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/T8CCMXW

Bath Central School Reports No COVID Cases
Bath Central School District reports there are no current COVID-19 cases impacting their staff or students. According to the daily-updated state school tracker, among the total school population of 896, zero have tested positive. The tracker also indicates no positive cases in Prattsburgh, Hammondsport or Campbell-Savona schools.

NYSAC Annual Conference Goes Digital
The New York State Association of Counties annual fall seminar, like other conferences this year, has gone digital. NYSAC Deputy Director Mark LaVigne says this training that began Tuesday will continue through the remainder of the month, as opposed to condensing the information exchange into a three-day in person session. The virtual seminar began by covering the state’s new early voting laws and COVID-19 election reforms, budget challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and police reforms mandated by the Governor’s executive orders.

NYS Health Dept. Shortens Nursing Home Visiting Window
Starting today, the New York state health department shortens the amount of time nursing homes must go without a positive COVID-19 test before they can allow visitors. The window will be cut in half from 28 to 14 days. The original 28-day window was met with criticism by families of nursing home residents and advocacy organizations for shutting out visitors.

SNAP Benefits to Receive Boost in October
Standard deductions for some Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits will receive a small boost starting October 1st due to federal government required benefits. Changes include: the maximum homeless shelter deduction will increase by $167 and Shelter deductions will also receive a slight boost in early October. Standard utility allocation amounts for heating, air conditioning, and basic services in the Steuben County region will remain the same. Maximum food benefits through the Thrifty Food Plan will also increase depending on household size as follows :

Household Size Maximum Household Income Maximum SNAP Benefits

• 1 - $1383 $204

• 2 - $1,868 $374

• 3 - $2,353 $535

• 4 - $2,839 $680

• 5 - $3,324 $807

• 6 - $3,809 $969

• 7 - $4,295 $1,071

• 8 - $4,780 $1,224

• 9 - $5,266 *

• 10 - $5,752 *

add $153 for each household member

For more information, call the Steuben County Department of Social Services at (607) 664-2000.

Bath Village Election Victories for Sweet, Causer, Muller and Plaskov
Results of the election for the Village of Bath had Michael Sweet elected Mayor by 242 votes. William von Hagn received 34 write-in votes. Sweet won the seat for the Mayor position with a 2 year term. Karen Causer and Jeffrey Muller won the seat for the two Trustee Position with a 4 year term. For the Justice Position, Robert Plaskov won the seat with a 4 year term.

Six Year-Old Killed, Father Jailed Following Wayland Accident
A Steuben County 6-year-old was killed and her father jailed after State Police responded to a one-vehicle, fatal accident on State Route 36 in the town of Wayland. The driver was 30-year-old Derek Clark from Wayland traveling eastbound on SR 36 when his vehicle left the roadway and struck a guide rail and telephone pole causing the vehicle to overturn. Clark’s 6-year-old daughter, Leah, was in a booster seat in the back seat and pronounced dead at the scene. State Police said Clark was arrested for Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs and Vehicular Manslaughter 2nd Degree and was committed to the Steuben County Jail on $50,000 cash or $100,000 bond.

Bath Man and Juvenile Arrested Following Hornell Armed Robbery
Hornell Police report that a 19-year-old from Bath and an unarmed juvenile broke into a Rockwell Avenue home in Hornell yesterday. Jametris Jordan of Bath and the juvenile allegedly broke in yesterday morning in the 9am hour. The two are said to have had two handguns in their possession, one of which discharged during the robbery. They are said to have stolen money and a car, which crashed on County Route 109 outside of Hornell. Both suspects were arrested after the crash and Jordan is facing numerous charges including robbery, criminal use of a firearm, assault, grand larceny, unauthorized use of motor vehicle and unlawful imprisonment. The unnamed minor is currently in Strong Memorial Hospital being treated for injuries from the car crash. Hornell Police report that one of the robbery victims was taken to St James for treatment of injuries suffered during that home invasion but no one was hit by the gunshot fired during the robbery.

Tire Dollar Days Continuing to Saturday
Tire Dollar Days continue at Bath Landfill to Saturday the 19^th. Tire Dollar Days begin each day to Saturday from 11am to 2pm. Tires can be recycled at the Bath Landfill or Hornell Transfer Station for only a dollar.

NYS Tax and Finance Say STAR Checks Are On Their Way
State Department of Tax and Finance officials say STAR checks should be coming any day now. According to News10NBC, checks are being mailed out and are not experiencing any delays. In total, 313,000 checks were sent to property owners who are eligible for the program. Residents and taxpayers can check their check’s status on the online portal: https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/property/star/star-check-delivery-schedule.htm

Cuomo Says Trick-or-Treating Won’t Be Banned
Governor Cuomo announced on News 12 Long Island yesterday he will not ban Halloween. He said:  “I would not ban trick-or-treaters going door to door. I don’t think that’s appropriate. You have neighbors – if you want to go knock on your neighbor’s door, God bless you and I’m not going to tell you not to. If you want to go for a walk with your child through the neighborhood, I’m not gonna tell you you can’t take your child to the neighborhood.” The Governor added that he will give his advice and guidance to help families make a decision on what do on Halloween night.

Bath Sees Five New COVID-19 Cases
Five new cases of COVID-19 were reported in Bath. According to Steuben County Health Officials, one person lives in the town of Bath, while the other for are from the Village of Bath. The investigations indicate all of the individuals are employees of the Fred & Harriett Taylor Health Center…and visited numerous local businesses this month. Public Health Director Darlene Smith says the New York State Department of Health will be investigating further, and testing of all residents and staff is expected to be completed this week. Health Director Smith also reminds community members to continue to wear masks and social distance to slow any potential spread outside the facility.

Jasper-Central School District Closed
School is closed for Jasper- Troupsburg Central School District. The school opened with other schools last week, but the county received an anonymous tip concerning social distancing in the classroom. The school chose to put a pause on in-class teaching after consulting with Steuben County officials. Steuben County Manager Jack Wheeler noted: “Obviously, when we get a complaint we have to do our due diligence to really determine what’s going on and also to work with the schools to solve it,” said Wheeler. “It’s not an adversarial relationship at all, it’s really just trying to figure out the best way forward.”

Walk for Recovery Set Virtually for 9/25
The annual community event Walk for Recovery will be virtual this year. The “Virtual Walk to Recovery” is set for midnight September 25th through midnight September 27th (Sept. 28th), with participants walking a distance of their choosing and posting their photos on the walk’s sponsor “Addiction Awareness of Steuben County” Facebook page, and on their social media pages. The goal of this event is to promote and support recovery from substance abuse addiction, which is on the rise with related issues, such as familial and animal abuse, since the COVID-19 pandemic led to job layoffs, isolation and stressful situations while limiting support. For more information, go to: https://www.facebook.com/aascny/?eid=ARC2SSSqH2nMWpWo1NuIiQktHVNrl-d8K1i5iefUy4_vz1AyHlJvAiFJZ3EamwDEy4HcSmcMTMklCV9p&fref=tag

Sweet to Step in as Mayor Tomorrow
Bath will have a new mayor by the end of tomorrow. Village elections in New York were supposed to happen in March, but Governor Cuomo moved them to today due to the pandemic. Current village trustee Mike Sweet will begin his mayoral term tomorrow as he runs unopposed for the seat. Village polls will be open until 9 p.m. tonight.

Legislative Proposal Would Divide New York State Into Three Regions
A proposal would break New York state into three autonomous zones: The New York Region, the Montauk Region and the New Amsterdam Region, which includes Steuben County. Each region would have specific governors and legislators while the bill divides up various agencies and departments. Every region would have separate court and prison systems, and the proposal “provides only for a state sales tax”. This Assembly bill is currently in the committee phase.

Reed Announces “March to Common Ground” to Break Gridlock
Today, Congressman Tom Reed announced the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus, composed of 25 Democrats and 25 Republicans, unveiled its “March To Common Ground” framework to help break the gridlock on the latest COVID-19 relief package. Reed’s office says the bill will encourage negotiators to get back to the table while addressing key areas of need, including COVID-19 testing, unemployment insurance, direct stimulus, worker and liability protection, small business and non-profit support, food security, schools and child care, housing, election support, and state and local aid. The framework calls for both new stimulus money and the reallocation of previously appropriated “CARES Act” funding, and allocates resources to

• Testing & Healthcare ($100B)
• Direct Assistance to Individuals & Families ($316B)
• Unemployment Assistance ($120B)
• Small Business & Non-profit Support ($290B
• School & Child Care ($145B)
• State & Local Aid ($500.3B)
• Election Support ($400B)
• Broadband, Agriculture, USPS, & Census ($52B)
• Worker & Liability Protections 
• Automatic Boosters & Reducers

For the full framework, please click here. 

Six States Removed from NYS Travel Advisory
Six states have been removed from the tri-state COVID-19 travel advisory. Today, California, Hawaii, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada and Ohio were removed from the list. Puerto Rico was put back on the list after being taken off last week. There are currently 30 U.S. states and territories impacted by the advisory.

The full updated list of states on the travel advisory:

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Arkansas
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia
• Guam
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Montana
• Nebraska
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Oklahoma
• Puerto Rico
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Virginia
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin

NYSEG to Close Hornell Customer Service Center
NYSEG announced its customer service center in Hornell will be one of six centers the utility company says it will close. Star Gazette reports NYSEG has been on a more than 20-year campaign to trim or close the number of customer service centers, but has usually met resistance from the state legislature following constituent complaints and as a result, rejection from the Department of Public Service.

Mitrano Holding Rally to Urge Debates with Reed
Yesterday, Democratic congressional candidate Tracy Mitrano held a campaign rally in Corning. Tonight, Mitrano heads over to Ithaca for a rally in Dewitt Park at 6 p.m. to rally supporters to demand incumbent Republican Tom Reed agree to appear in one or more candidate debates this fall.

League Play Postponed to January by NYSPHSAA
All league play will be postponed and follow the New York State Public High School Athletic Association condensed fall, winter, and spring seasons that begin January 4^th, 2021 in hopes all athletic seasons can begin, and end as scheduled and still include section and state level competition. The conference is comprised of 17 high schools including, Elmira, Ithaca and Corning.

Leslie Danks-Burke Visits Howard for Meet and Greet
Saturday, Leslie Danks Burke stopped by a Howard home for local voters to listen to and ask the Democratic State Senate candidate any questions. Gary and Mary Remchuck hosted the meet and greet event at their residence. Danks-Burke faces off against Republican incumbent State Senator Tom O’Mara in the general election.

Blandford Out on Parole
The Elmira man serving as a lookout in the plan to kill Kelly Clayton 5 years ago was put on parole. 53-year-old Mark Blandford is out of prison after serving three years of his sentence. Testimony by Blandford helped lead to murder convictions of former Elmira Jackal player Thomas Clayton and Michael Beard. The prosecutors said Clayton gave Beard $10,000 to bludgeon his wife to death inside her home in the Town of Caton in September of 2015. Both Beard and Clayton are serving life sentences.

One Dead After Elmira Home Invasion
A 29-year-old Elmira resident has died as a result of a home invasion robbery that occurred on the West side of Elmira about 2:30 this morning. Elmira police responded to the report of a gunshot victim and upon arrival, EMS attempted to revive the male victim whose identity has not been disclosed at this time. The death is believed to be the result of a home invasion robbery, which a 20 year old Elmira resident and her infant daughter were present to see. A vehicle was stolen from the residence at the time of the robbery and later recovered by officers. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call 607-737-5626 or the anonymous tip line at 607-271-HALT.

NY Voters Who Applied for Absentee Ballot Should Re-Apply
The thousands of New York voters who already applied for an absentee ballot may have to re-apply as some voters in several New York counties received letters in recent weeks notifying them prior absentee applications were invalid and urging them to apply again for absentee. Officials say this error is a result of issues related to the pandemic and how applications are being processed. Voters that checked ‘temporary illness’ as the reason for requesting an absentee ballot between June’s primary and August 20th have a good chance of needing to make another request. A Board of Elections spokesman said there was no COVID-19 excuse available to request an absentee ballot during the time period between the Primary and August 20^th.

One new case of COVID-19 in Steuben County

The Steuben County Public Health Department received notification that a Steuben County resident tested positive for COVID-19.  This brings the total to 337 confirmed cases, eight of which are currently active.  The individual is a resident of the Town of Caton. The individual is isolated and being monitored by the County Health Department.  Public Health staff investigated and identified close contacts of the confirmed case and exposure risks.  All those known to have direct contact with the individual have been notified. An investigation indicated the individual was exposed at the Lighthouse Baptist Church in Horseheads, where a cluster of cases has impacted residents of six counties, including Chemung, Schuyler, and now Steuben.  Anyone who visited the church between August 18 and September 6 is considered to have been exposed and should get tested and quarantine.

VanEtten issues statement regarding 9/11

Chairman of the Steuben County Legislature Scott VanEtten issued a statement on behalf of the county Legislature regarding the 19^th anniversary of the September 11^th terrorist attacks. “Even as we battle the pandemic coronavirus and its disruption in our daily lives, we must remember those who lost their lives on 9/11. It’s important to also recognize the unwavering bravery and commitment of the fire fighters, police, and EMS personnel that ran into those buildings to save lives. In these times of civil unrest we must stand behind and support our law enforcement agencies and EMS responders who place their lives on the line every day,” said VanEtten.

Tire dollar days back by popular demand

This coming week, Monday, September 14^th through Friday, September 19^th, tire dollar days are back by popular demand. Tire disposal prices will be reduced to $1 per tire only at the Bath Landfill and the Hornell Transfer Station for this one week only. Passenger vehicle and small truck tires will be accepted.

Athens man arrested after attempted kidnapping in Chemung

According to the Chemung County Sheriff’s Office, Dion Derrig, age 58 of Athens, Pennsylvania was arrested and charged with First Degree Sexual Abuse and Second Degree Attempted Kidnapping after trying to kidnap a 14 year old girl in the town of Chemung yesterday morning. The victim alleged Derrig inquired about purchasing a car at her residence. Derrig then grabbed the victim, placed her over his shoulder, and attempted to leave with the victim. The victim struggled to free herself, at which point Derrig pinned her to the ground and attempted to sexually assault her by forcibly touching her. The victim freed herself, fled into her home and notified police. Derrig was apprehended in the City of Elmira and taken into custody. Authorities say Derrig may have attempted to assault other females in the area of County Route 60 in the Town of Chemung in the past.

Cuomo welcomes home team of firefighters from Rocky Mountains, including Steuben County man

Governor Andrew Cuomo yesterday welcomed home 10 New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Forest Rangers, staff, and volunteers who began their assignment August 25^th, helping battle high priority fires in Nebraska and South Dakota over the past two weeks. One of those volunteers who returned was Steuben County’s own Jon Cleveland, a Forester with the DEC Division of Lands and Forests. Governor Cuomo also welcomed home two members of the New York Air National Guard who provided mission support with remotely piloted aircraft to detect fire lines and aid in fire control measures while assisting California Air National Guard's 163rd Attack Wing at March Air Reserve Base in Riverside, California. A second DEC crew will travel to the Rocky Mountain Area Coordination Center in Denver, CO, on Sept. 12, to continue providing assistance to western states battling wildland fires.

One new case of COVID-19 in Steuben County

The Steuben County Public Health Department received notification that a Steuben County resident tested positive for COVID-19.  This brings the total to 337 confirmed cases, eight of which are currently active.  The individual is a resident of the Town of Caton. The individual is isolated and being monitored by the County Health Department.  Public Health staff investigated and identified close contacts of the confirmed case and exposure risks.  All those known to have direct contact with the individual have been notified. An investigation indicated the individual was exposed at the Lighthouse Baptist Church in Horseheads, where a cluster of cases has impacted residents of six counties, including Chemung, Schuyler, and now Steuben.  Anyone who visited the church between August 18 and September 6 is considered to have been exposed and should get tested and quarantine.

VanEtten issues statement regarding 9/11

Chairman of the Steuben County Legislature Scott VanEtten issued a statement on behalf of the county Legislature regarding the 19^th anniversary of the September 11^th terrorist attacks. “Even as we battle the pandemic coronavirus and its disruption in our daily lives, we must remember those who lost their lives on 9/11. It’s important to also recognize the unwavering bravery and commitment of the fire fighters, police, and EMS personnel that ran into those buildings to save lives. In these times of civil unrest we must stand behind and support our law enforcement agencies and EMS responders who place their lives on the line every day,” said VanEtten.

Tire dollar days back by popular demand

This coming week, Monday, September 14^th through Friday, September 19^th, tire dollar days are back by popular demand. Tire disposal prices will be reduced to $1 per tire only at the Bath Landfill and the Hornell Transfer Station for this one week only. Passenger vehicle and small truck tires will be accepted.

Athens man arrested after attempted kidnapping in Chemung

According to the Chemung County Sheriff’s Office, Dion Derrig, age 58 of Athens, Pennsylvania was arrested and charged with First Degree Sexual Abuse and Second Degree Attempted Kidnapping after trying to kidnap a 14 year old girl in the town of Chemung yesterday morning. The victim alleged Derrig inquired about purchasing a car at her residence. Derrig then grabbed the victim, placed her over his shoulder, and attempted to leave with the victim. The victim struggled to free herself, at which point Derrig pinned her to the ground and attempted to sexually assault her by forcibly touching her. The victim freed herself, fled into her home and notified police. Derrig was apprehended in the City of Elmira and taken into custody. Authorities say Derrig may have attempted to assault other females in the area of County Route 60 in the Town of Chemung in the past.

Cuomo welcomes home team of firefighters from Rocky Mountains, including Steuben County man

Governor Andrew Cuomo yesterday welcomed home 10 New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Forest Rangers, staff, and volunteers who began their assignment August 25^th, helping battle high priority fires in Nebraska and South Dakota over the past two weeks. One of those volunteers who returned was Steuben County’s own Jon Cleveland, a Forester with the DEC Division of Lands and Forests. Governor Cuomo also welcomed home two members of the New York Air National Guard who provided mission support with remotely piloted aircraft to detect fire lines and aid in fire control measures while assisting California Air National Guard's 163rd Attack Wing at March Air Reserve Base in Riverside, California. A second DEC crew will travel to the Rocky Mountain Area Coordination Center in Denver, CO, on Sept. 12, to continue providing assistance to western states battling wildland fires.

Possible Hep B Exposure at Bath Dunkin Donuts
Those who have not been previously vaccinated for Hepatitis A and who consumed food or drink from the Dunkin’ Donuts on August 17th through August 22nd should monitor themselves and their families for symptoms for 50 days and seek medical evaluation for Hepatitis A if they develop symptoms of this infection. The Steuben County Public Health Department (SCPH) confirmed a case of hepatitis A in an individual who worked for several days while infectious at Dunkin’ Donuts located in Bath. Though customers and coworkers at the Dunkin’ Donuts are at risk of acquiring hepatitis A infection, public health officials stress there is a low risk of contracting the illness.

Bath Man Arrested Again for Drug Charges
A 50-year-old Bath man was arrested following an investigation into the sale of methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl, according to the Village of Bath Police Department. Shannon Brockway was already in the Steuben County Jail and allegedly selling the drugs from his home on the 500 block of West Washington Street in Bath. He was charged with two counts each of criminal sale of a controlled substance in the fifth degree and criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fifth degree. Brockway faces three counts each of criminal sale of a controlled substance in the third degree and criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree. In June, Brockway was arrested with Nanette Peters after officials allege that a meth lab was found inside a home.

Road Closure Begins on State Route 36 to End of Month
Motorists are advised closures will be in place along State Route 36 in the towns of Canisteo and Hornellsville to facilitate a pavement rehabilitation project. Approximately four miles of pavement will be resurfaced along Route 36 between the city of Hornell and village of Canisteo and expected to last through the end of September. Two-way traffic will be maintained using single lane closures and motorists may experience delays during this time. No detours will be posted.

Latest COVID Case a Town of Corning Resident
Another Steuben County resident tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total to 336 confirmed cases, seven of which are currently active. The individual is a resident of the Town of Corning and being isolated and monitored by the County Health Department.

NYS DOL Launches $300/Weekly Lost Wage Assistance Program
New York State Department of Labor announced payments for the Lost Wages Assistance launches today and begin on a rolling basis next week. The Lost Wages Assistance program provides an additional $300 in weekly LWA unemployment benefits for the weeks ending August 2^nd, 9^th and 16^th. Federal rules say New York state may be eligible for additional weeks of LWA funding.

Investigation Continues into Man Found Dead at Campbell Rest Stop
The identity of a 51-year-old man from Binghamton found dead inside a rest stop restroom Wednesday is still being withheld as the investigation into his death continues. Sheriff Jim Allard said the body of the Binghamton man was discovered at a rest area off I-86 and an autopsy has been ordered to determine the cause of death.

Binghamton Man Found Dead at Campbell Rest Stop

Yesterday, County Sheriff Jim Allard reported Wednesday morning, the body of a 51-year-old Binghamton man was found inside a rest stop stall on I-86 in Campbell. Allard says the name of the man is being withheld at this time and an autopsy is being performed to try to determine the cause of death as the investigation into this death remains active at this time.

County Health Dept. Notifies Public of Unreported COVID Death
The Steuben County Public Health Department reports they learned that a COVID-positive 77 year-old woman previously reported to be recovered by a Hornell-area nursing home had actually died prior to her reported recovery in June and that the nursing home failed to report the death to Public Health. COVID-19 related deaths in Steuben County are at a current total of 44.  The individual died in a nursing home in the Hornell area and her death certificate indicates COVID-19 as a contributing cause of death. Public Health Director Darlene Smith said: “Unfortunately in this case, we were not provided with complete information at the time…..”

Jasper Couple Restoring Their Town’s Old Grange
A couple from Steuben County is putting work on restoring the Old Grange House in Jasper. Couple Dora and Jim Stanford say they’ve stabilized the building and have opened it as an antique shop named the “Stanford’s Ole Grange Warehouse” and called the project they worked on during quarantine “a labor of love”.

NYSPHSAA to Postpone High-Risk Fall Sports to March
The New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) made the decision to postpone football, volleyball and competitive cheer fall seasons to March 1st, 2021 to address membership concerns associated with high-risk fall sports. Executive Director Dr. Robert Zayas said the “Fall-2” season will overlap with spring sports and the administering high-risk fall sports during the COVID-19 pandemic presents a significant challenge. Regular season games can begin for girls’ tennis, cross country, girls’ swimming/diving, boys’ soccer, girls’ soccer and field hockey once student-athletes have participated in the required number of practices as per NYSPHSAA bylaws.

Guthrie Health Vender Information Compromised
One of Guthrie’s international vendors suffered a cyber security incident and it may have impacted the local health provider after the vendor said some of its information was compromised between February and May. Guthrie said it has been telling patients about the incident after it was alerted in mid-July. Based on an investigation, Guthrie says it believes the breach could have involved a backup file containing data about some patients. Financial and credit card account information was reportedly not compromised.

Bath Man Arrested on Menacing and Weapon Charges
A Bath man faces multiple counts after 28-year-old Christian Tobias was taken into custody in the town by State Troopers then charged with menacing with a weapon and criminal possession of a weapon with intent to use. Tobias is to appear in Town of Bath court at a later date.

Two Men Arrested During Rochester Protests for Civil Disorder
Two 20-year-old men have been arrested and charged in separate complaints with civil disorder in weekend protests in Rochester according to federal prosecutors. Adam Green, who is from Dansville and Dallas Williams-Smothers of Rochester each face five years in prison if convicted and/or $250,000 fine.

State Updates Guidance for “Under the Mask” Services
Yesterday, New York state updated guidelines allowing salons and barbershops to give customers ‘under the mask’ services. The updated guidance allows customers to remove their masks for services like facials, waxing, and shaving. Employees will be required to wear face shields and test negative for COVID before performing the services.

COVID in Steuben: First Death Since May & 5 New Cases
The first COVID-19-attributed death in Steuben county since May was a 75-year-old man from the Town of Hornby who died while hospitalized outside the county. Steuben County has reported a total of 43 COVID-19 related deaths. Five new cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Steuben county. They are from the city of Corning, village of Wayland and the towns of Campbell, Hornby and Jasper and are isolated and being monitored by the County Health Department. Public Health staff investigated, identified and notified close contacts of the confirmed cases and exposure risks.

Steuben County Real Property Auction Set for October 2nd
After being delayed for nearly three months and with far fewer parcels than usual due to COVID-19, the 2020 Steuben County Real Property Auction set for October 2^nd will have sixteen properties up for bid. It will take place in two sessions scheduled for 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Oct. 2 and held in the county Annex, at the corner of East Morris St. and Wilson Ave. in Bath. Those able to do so are asked to bid online and must pre-register before September 30^th at 4 p.m. to bid during the auctions. Those unable to bid online must pre-register before 4 p.m. Sept. 30 in order to maintain gathering-size guidance. All attending the auction on-site will be required to stand unless for medical reasons noted on the pre-registration form. Those attending in person will be screened.

Bath Prepares to Wave the Red Bandana on 9/11
Friday marks the 19^th Anniversary of September 11^th and people in the community are encouraged to pick up free red bandana strips to “Wave the Red Bandana” this Patriot Day. The Red Bandana is an effort to honor Welles Crowther or the “man in the red bandana” who was a Volunteer Fire Fighter that saved at least 18 people before perishing in the collapse of the Twin Towers. Free red bandana strips will be available at Betty Kay Bake Shop, Peacock’s Barber Shop and Shirley’s Lumber so the community can participate.

Buffalo Bills Name 2020 Team Captains
The Buffalo Bills Team captains for 2020 were announced yesterday. Josh Allen and Dion Dawkins were elected by their teammates as captains on offense, Tremaine Edmunds, Jerry Hughes and Jordan Poyer on defense, and Reid Ferguson and Andre Roberts on special teams.

Comptroller Reports Small Businesses are Troubled Amid Pandemic
A recent newsletter from Comptroller Tom DiNapoli’s office on economic trends in New York, found some small businesses are in a deep hole due to the pandemic. Even as some businesses are reopening in the state, 18% of responding businesses have either no cash on hand for operations or enough for only two weeks or less. The survey found that 17% have enough to maintain operations for three or four weeks, while another 24% can get by for one or two months. Meanwhile, the survey showed that 25% of businesses have seen operating capacity decline by half or more from a year ago. Only 10% of all businesses were unaffected by the pandemic. The survey also reports 50% of businesses in New York believe it will take upwards of six months to return to a ‘normal’ pre-COVID operating level. 10% of business owners don’t believe their companies will ever return to normal.

GOP Chair Langworthy Responds to Cuomo’s Anti-Trump Rant
During a weekend press conference, Governor Cuomo made statements against President Trump where the governor blamed him for New York’s COVID-19 outbreak. State Republican Party Chair Nick Langworthy released a statement yesterday responding to Cuomo’s remarks, calling the governor incompetent and the one responsible for New York’s economic and public safety crisis. Langworthy also accused him of failing to act to reform New York’s worst-in-the-nation tax and regulatory climate during the pandemic. Langworthy complained Cuomo made: “dishonest, delusional rants against the President who went above and beyond to give New York everything he asked for.”

County Public Works Committee Meets Monday
The Steuben County Public Works Committee meets Monday September 14^th from 2 to 3pm via Zoom to discuss the Transfer of $108,351 from New Bath Landfill Post Closure Capital Expenses to landfill Administration, Appropriating $141,916.34 of Revenue within the Grinder Repair and Replacement Capital Project, the Employee Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Acquisition Program, and the Road Use and Repair Agreement with Canisteo Wind Energy, LLC. The meeting can be accessed online at: https://steubencountynygov.zoom.us/j/98827631890?pwd=ZjMrajhNcVBaS1cxRW13cUZxeXFwQT09

NYSAC Sends Letter of Recommendations to NYS Division of Budget
The New York State Association of Counties submitted a report to the State Division of Budget with over 80 recommendations for overcoming the budget crises facing the state and local budgets as a result of the pandemic. Counties are done waiting on the federal government to provide financial relief from the COVID-19 pandemic. NYSAC President Jack Marren says the dozens of recommendations in the report are efforts to preserve county services in the face of massive declines in local revenues and the withholding of state aid while also sending the message to the state that counties have willingness to partner with one another constructively in economy recovery. Marren says for now, it’s a one-way message.

Road Closure Continues to Friday in Caton
Steuben County Public Works Department reports a road closure beginning today and running through Friday in the Town of Caton. County Route 34, Whiskey Creek Road, between house numbers 1912 and 2294 in the Town of Caton will be closed for the replacement of a culvert pipe. There will be no on-site detour.

OFA Offers Annual Public Hearing Online
Steuben County Office For the Aging’s annual public hearing scheduled for 10am on Thursday, September 17^th will have a different look. County OFA Director Patty Baroody said: “…in keeping with our motto, ‘The new age of aging,’ we’re offering the event online.” The public hearing will give residents an opportunity to discuss OFA’s plans for 2021, followed by a lively and humorous presentation by Wellness Advocate Joshua Goldman on “Getting Better At Getting Older.” Join the September 17^th event by clicking the “Join Senior Forum Event” via Zoom:
at www.steubencony.org/OFA or by calling (646) 558-8656.
Webinar ID is 958 1508 2369 then press #.
Those looking for technical help may call (607) 664-2298.

Two from Bath Arrested on Narcotics Charges
Steuben County Sheriff’s Office reports that on September 4^th, deputies arrested 28-year-old Christine M. Stevens and 40-year-old Jose A. Velez both of State Route 415 in Bath, following a multi-agency investigation into the alleged sale of narcotics in the Bath area. Stevens and Velez were arrested due to Superior Court Warrants issued by the Steuben County Grand Jury. Stevens is charged with Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree. Velez was charged with Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Fourth Degree, and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fourth Degree. Both Stevens and Velez were held, arraigned and released.

Campbell Woman Charged With Grand Larceny
Steuben County Sheriff’s Office reports September 7^th, deputies of the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office arrested 34-year-old Linda J. Tongate of State Route 415 in Campbell. Between April 2020 and July 2020, Ms. Tongate allegedly received multiple forms of unreported income while receiving benefits and obtained benefits she was not entitled nor authorized to receive in the amount of $1,756.00. Tongate was charged with one count of Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree and issued an appearance ticket to appear in the Village of Bath Court at a later date.

Corning Community College Controlling COVID Well
While SUNY Oneonta reported over 100 COVID-19 cases and had to shut down as a result, Corning Community College appears to be in better shape. During the past two weeks, the college reported 153 students were tested with zero positive cases. However, four students are under a precautionary quarantine. Three are isolating off campus and one student is isolating on-campus. Corning currently has 13 rooms available on campus for students who must quarantine.

Mitrano Talks Jobs at Yesterday’s Labor Day Rally
Democratic Congressional Candidate Tracy Mitrano held a rally yesterday afternoon, highlighting the history of the Labor Movement and how organized labor union workers fought for live-able wages, reasonable hours and safer working conditions. Mitrano said the movement was the stepping stone to end child labor in the United States, provide workers with health benefits and give aid to people who were injured or retired. Mitrano also says political involvement in the community allows congress to create more job stability and employment opportunities for younger Americans who are looking to find employment in a currently erratic job market. Mitrano faces off against GOP Incumbent Congressman Tom Reed in the November 3^rd General Election.

NY Updates Personal Care Service Guidelines
New York State released updated guidelines for personal care services requiring clients to remove their face mask. Services including facials, makeup, waxing or piercing services are allowed to resume if the employee wears a face shield in addition to their face mask under the new guidance. Employees must also get tested for COVID-19 and receive a negative result dated September 3rd or later.

Four States Added to Travel Advisory
In this morning’s press briefing, Governor Cuomo announced four states have been added to the COVID-19 travel advisory list: Delaware, Maryland, Ohio and West Virginia while Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands were removed. Now, 35 states and territories are on the list: 

• Alabama
• Arkansas
• California
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Iowa
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maryland
• Minnesota
• Missouri
• Mississippi
• Montana
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Nebraska
• Nevada
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Virginia
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin

Local Students Return to School Tomorrow
Bath students and students in many other local districts return to school tomorrow. Motorists will once again need to be alert for school buses and more pedestrians. Schools across New York have spent the summer preparing for tomorrow, with new operating guidelines and procedures. Prattsburgh district handed out thermometers and cloth face masks for students last week. Officials there were also putting the final touches on a new “parent survival guide.”

Hartsville Fire Destroys Home
Sunday afternoon, Canisteo Fire and EMS and South Hornell fire were dispatched to 999 Ells Road in Hartsville for a house fire at about 1:05pm. The 911 dispatch said the owner reported the house had already burned to the ground. According to Steuben County tax records, the $121,000 home is owned by Bill Pullman Trust based in Sinking Springs, PA. A fire investigation team was requested to the scene.

Car Engulfs Flames in Bath on I-86, Driver Ticketed
Saturday morning at about 10am, a car was reported to be engulfed in flames on I-86 just outside of Bath. Steuben County Sheriff’s Office said there were no injuries. The driver of the Chrysler Pacifica bought the vehicle in Elmira from a private person was transporting it home to Pennsylvania when it caught on fire. The car was a total loss and the driver was ticketed for an unregistered and uninsured car.

Shelter Seeks Information About Kitten Killed on Route 13
The Elmira Animal Control and Shelter offers a $500 reward for information on who is responsible for the brutal killing of a kitten. According to a post on the shelter’s Facebook page, the black and white kitten was hurled from the passenger side of a moving southbound car at the windshield of the approaching car in the northbound lane  of an oncoming car between the two roundabouts on Rte. 13 in Horseheads Monday, August 31^st  between 2 and 2:30pm. The car was able to swerve away, but the kitten died in the attack. Anyone with more information about this incident should contact The Elmira Animal Control and Shelter.

Steuben Historical Society Cancels October Cemetery Tour
The Steuben County Historical Society has canceled their annual Leaf-Peeping October Cemetery Tour due to the public health situation. Anyone who purchased tickets to the tour will be sent refunds and organizers anticipate to bring the Cemetery Tour back again next year.

SUNY Schools Create COVID-19 Tracker
SUNY has made its COVID-19 tracker available online and the website is designed to provide a place for students and parents, as well as faculty and staff, to check any school’s coronavirus data. COVID-19 data for the SUNY system as a whole is also provided by this website and each school is mandated to report positive cases to the state every day. SUNY Oneonta has been the only school in the system that had to close due to the guideline stating any SUNY school with over a hundred confirmed COVID-19 cases must move to online-only learning. You can view the SUNY tracker here.

Two new cases of COVID-19 in Steuben County

The Steuben County Public Health Department has received notification that two Steuben County residents tested positive for COVID-19. This bring the total to 330 confirmed cases, of which seven are currently active. The individuals are residents of the towns of Hornby and Hornellsville. One of the newly diagnosed cases is hospitalized. The individuals are isolated and being monitored by the County Health Department.  Public Health staff investigated and identified close contacts of the confirmed cases and exposure risks.  All those known to have direct contact with the individuals have been notified.

9 Steuben County residents with active warrants arrested

Steuben County Sherriff Jim Allard reports that from August 1^st, 2020 to August 31^st, 2020, deputies of the Steuben Sherriff’s Office Warrant Squad arrested 9 people with active warrants.

• Mr. Brendan Scott Moore, age 28, of Wayland
• Mr. Jacob Douglas Davis, age 25, of Canisteo
• Mr. Ryan Michael Park, age 42, of New Columbia, PA
• Ms. Jeanita Rose Stevens, age 30, of Wayland
• Ms. Ellyn Laura Williams, age 38, homeless
• Ms. Taylor Nicole King, age 24, of Avoca
• Mr. Brandon Tyler Lapierre, age 28, of Corning
• Mr. Jon Cameron Calcote, age 25, of Bath
• Mr. Justin Gene Gross, age 28, of Campbell

All have been remanded to Steuben County Jail.

Governor Cuomo reports NYS COVID-19 infection rate below 1% for fourth straight week

Governor Andrew Cuomo announced yesterday that New York State’s COVID-19 infection rate has remained below 1% for the fourth straight week. Of the 93,395 test results reported to the state yesterday, only 864, or .092% were positive.

Dansville woman arrested on felony charges

Livingston County Sheriff Thomas J. Dougherty reports that a Dansville woman was arrested on felony contempt charges after an investigation by the Sheriff’s office. Samantha M. Cossairt, age 27, had a court issued order of protection against her requiring her to stay 500 feet away from the place of employment of the protected party. On August 26^th, Cossairt violated the order of protection when she went to the protected party’s place of employment. She was arrested on September 1^st and charged with 1^st Degree Criminal Contempt, as she had a previous criminal contempt related conviction dating back to September 2019. She was arraigned at the Livingston County Centralized Arraignment Part at the Livingston County Jail. She was released on her own recognizance.

Leicester man arrested for alleged Predatory Sexual Assault against a Child

Livingston County Sheriff Thomas J. Dougherty reports that a Leicester man was arrested on felony sexual assault charges after an investigation by the Sheriff’s Office. Christopher L. Wilmet, age 32, was arrested and charged with Predatory Sexual Assault Against a Child, a class A-II felony, and two class B felonies, Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child in the 1^st Degree, and Rape in the 1^st Degree. It is alleged between May of 2016 and May of 2020, Wilmet had sexual contact on several occasions with a juvenile victim who was less than the age of 13 during the time frame of the incidents. Wilmet was arraigned at the Livingston County Centralized Arraignment Part at the Livingston County Jail. He was remanded to jail without bail.

Nick Pelham named WETM’s Most Valuable Citizen this month

Nick Pelham was named this month’s Most Valuable Citizen by WETM 18 News. Nick’s tireless work ethic when it comes to the Steuben County Fair can sometimes go underappreciated, especially this year with the Pandemic. In addition to his work with the Steuben County Fair, Pelham also provides a way for local 4H youth to exhibit and sell their animals to earn money to put towards college tuition and to show their dedication to their community and animals.

Classes Begin for Bath on Tuesday
The first day of classes for the Bath School District begins Tuesday as the district adopts a hybrid format. Special Needs students will attend in person every day, while other students will attend every other day according to School superintendent Joe Rumsey (Joe2). Rumsey said students will be required to wear masks on buses and in hallways but said each classroom has been redesigned to achieve social distancing, so students will not have to wear a mask in the classroom.

NYS Siting Board Reaffirms Approval for Baron Winds to Build Facility
Yesterday, the New York State Board on Electric Generation Siting and the Environment reaffirmed its approval to Baron Winds LLC to build and operate a wind facility in Steuben County. The Siting Board decided to deny a petition for rehearing, submitted by three residents, challenged the Siting Board’s decision in May approving amendments to Baron Winds’ Article 10 Certificate on the grounds that the Siting Board failed to consider the potential enactment of a local law regarding heights of turbines. The Siting Board said it’s not required to reevaluate projects for compliance with new local laws passed after issuance of a final determination, nor is there a requirement that the Siting Board reverse its decision or delay rendering a decision because a town is considering a new local law.

One New Case of COVID in Steuben County
One new COVID-19 case has been reported in Steuben County, bringing the case count to 328 cases. The individual is from the Town of Wayne and is isolated and being monitored by the County Health Department. Public Health staff investigated and identified close contacts of the confirmed case and exposure risks. All those known to have direct contact with the individual have been notified.

County Public Works Committee Meets Monday
The Steuben County Public Works Committee meets Monday September 14^th from 2 to 3pm via Zoom to discuss the Transfer of $108,351 from New Bath Landfill Post Closure Capital Expenses to landfill Administration, Appropriating $141,916.34 of Revenue within the Grinder Repair and Replacement Capital Project, the Employee Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Acquisition Program, and the Road Use and Repair Agreement with Canisteo Wind Energy, LLC. The meeting can be accessed online at: https://steubencountynygov.zoom.us/j/98827631890?pwd=ZjMrajhNcVBaS1cxRW13cUZxeXFwQT09

Leaders React to Daniel Prude’s Murder
Rochester police officers involved in the suffocation death last March of a Black man in their custody have been suspended. Body camera video released Wednesday by Daniel Prude’s family shows officers putting a so-called spit hood over Prude’s head which contributed to his death according to the Medical Examiner. Governor Cuomo called the video ‘deeply disturbing’.  Relatives say the 41-year-old had mental health issues but was harmless. At a press conference yesterday Rochester Mayor Lovely Warren urged the State Attorney General to complete the investigation into Prude’s death.

Tom O’Mara Graded High by Independent Small Business Group
National Federation of Independent Business of New York, New York’s leading small business association, gave State Senator Tom O’Mara a 91% rating on its 2019-2020 legislative review of how state legislators addressed priority issues for small business owners across New York. O’Mara is the second-highest rated among all state.

Bath Prepares to Wave the Red Bandana on 9/11
As the 20^th Anniversary of September 11^th is in one week, people in the community are encouraged to pick up free red bandana strips to “Wave the Red Bandana” this Patriot Day. The Red Bandana is an effort to honor Welles Crowther or the “man in the red bandana” who was a Volunteer Fire Fighter that saved at least 18 people before perishing in the collapse of the Twin Towers. Free red bandana strips will be available at Betty Kay Bake Shop, Peacock’s Barber Shop and Shirley’s Lumber so the community can participate.

Bath Volunteer Fire Department to Distribute Fire Safety Week Kits
The National Fire Protection Association and State Farm Agent Brian McDonald announced they will join the Bath Volunteer Fire Department to support Fire Prevention Week, an annual public awareness campaign from October 4^th to the 10th promoting home fire safety. State Farm Agents will deliver Fire Prevention Week toolkits to over 2500 fire departments across the country, including Bath Fire Dept. Toolkits include resources for Fire Prevention Week like brochures, magnets, posters and more. The Fire Department will be sharing these resources with schools and communities this fall in support of the campaign. This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign focuses on fire safety for cooking.

County Administration Committee Meets Tuesday
Tuesday September 8^th the Steuben County Administration Committee meets to discuss the 2020 Surplus , Vehicle Lease C. Clerk of the Legislature, Adopting the LGS-1 Retention Schedule, Updating the FOIL Subject Matter List, and a USDA Broadband Grant.

Reed says USPS Needs Long-Term Relief
Congressman Tom Reed said the public’s response to his vote in favor of a $25 billion emergency funding bill for the U.S. Postal Service has been positive but Reed says more work is ahead when it comes to resolving the issue of funding for the USPS, an issue he says has yet to be addressed. Reed also said relief for the Postal Service in the next COVID-19 stimulus bill should be more than just monetary, adding that more long term relief for the USPS can be made possible by “super-funding” of retirement obligations. Reed was one of 26 Republicans who voted to pass the funding bill 2 weeks ago.

Male Minor Charged in Attempted Horseheads Rape
A 17-year-old after a reported attempted rape in the Town of Horseheads. Deputies from the Chemung County Sheriff’s Office say August 31st, a 33-year-old woman reported while jogging on Veteran Hill Road, she was attacked by a male riding a bicycle. The woman says the suspect tackled her into a ditch, off the shoulder of the road but was able to fight the attacker off and run awa to seek treatment for her injuries at a local hospital then released. After an “extensive neighborhood canvass of the area”, police said several homeowners reported they either saw the attacker just before the incident, or were able to provide investigators with home security footage of the suspect following the victim just before the attack. Investigators identified the suspect, whose name is not being released at this time, and also recovered “several items of evidence connecting him to the crime”. The suspect was arraigned then sent to a juvenile detention facility, and is scheduled to return to Family Court at a later date.

Painted Post Man Arrested in Federal Child Sex Abuse Sting
A 38-year-old Painted Post man who was a social worker at BOCES was arrested after an undercover federal investigation involving an attempt to engage in sexual acts with a child, according to a story by The Leader. WETM also confirmed with BOCES, that Gorman was placed on administrative leave this week after working at the school since 2017. Gorman allegedly responded to a social media post by an undercover officer posed as the parent of a 9-year-old girl and involved a series of text messages in which he allegedly discussed payments ranging up to $400. Today, Gorman was charged with a felony count of using a facility and means of interstate and foreign commerce to knowingly attempt to persuade, induce, entice and coerce an individual under 18 to engage in sexual activity.

Hammondsport Woman Arrested on Drug Charges
Hammondsport woman Trehana L. Hoad was arrested by Sheriff’s Deputies following an investigation of narcotics sales in the Town of Urbana. The 21-year-old woman was charged with Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree. Hoad was held in the Steuben County Jail pending her arraignment in Steuben County Court.

Danks-Burke Calls to End Regulations Causing High Property Taxes
Democratic State Senate Nominee Leslie Danks-Burke joined 51st District Senate Nominee hopeful Jim Barber at Underhill Farms in Tompkins County to call for an end on regulations forcing high property taxes, as well as lifting the burden of healthcare costs. Danks Burke noted regulations have forced New Yorkers to pay the highest property tax compared to other states with Upstate residents paying the highest property tax compared to what their house is assessed at in the state, including New York City. She also mentioned Steuben County has one of the state’s highest poverty rates while having one of the highest property tax rates comparatively. Danks-Burke said maintaining or lowering property taxes could have a major impact on those that are the backbone of Upstate New York. She also mentioned State Senator O’Mara voted “eight times, eight years in a row against lowering property taxes”

Dansville Man Arrested for Child Porn
A 29-year-old Dansville man was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with production, receipt, and distribution of child pornography, and possession of child pornography involving prepubescent minors. Cody Burgess faces a minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, and a maximum of 30 years in prison. Over 32 images of child pornography were allegedly found on his iPad Mini as well as 41 images of child erotica when authorities seized the device on July 31^st. The complaint is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police and Homeland Security Investigations.

Sheriff and Corning City Seek Feedback with Survey
The Steuben County Sheriff's Office and City of Corning are seeking insight from residents to meet their public safety needs. The Police Reform and Reinvention Collaborative continues its community outreach through public listening sessions and an online survey open now through September 20^th. A hard copy of the survey can be picked up at Corning City Hall of the Sheriff's Office. The first of three virtual public listening sessions is September 15^th and because attendance is limited to 500 people per session, county residents are asked to attend only one of them. They are scheduled for:

• Tuesday, September 15th, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
• Wednesday, September 16th, 12 p.m. – 3 p.m.
• Thursday, September 17th, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

United Way Pledges $100K for Distance Learning Support
United Way of the Southern Tier announced a commitment of $100,000 to support expanded, supervised distance learning spaces for school-age children in Chemung and Steuben counties. Amid the urgent childcare crisis and as school goes back into session, the $100,000 will help offset expenses such as PPE, internet fees, cleaning products, rental of alternative space, utilities and liability insurance, to offer more places for children to learn in safe, nurturing environments outside of the classroom.

NYS Launches Absentee Ballot Portal
New York’s absentee ballot portal has launched and allows voters to directly request an absentee ballot for the upcoming November 3rd election. Governor Cuomo issued an Executive Order allowing any voter concerned about risk or exposure to COVID-19 to request an absentee ballot.

VDC Reminds Public to Donate Venison and Funds
As it celebrates its 20 year anniversary, the Bath-based Venison Donation Coalition reminds the hunters to support food banks in the area by donating a deer this hunting season. VDC Founder Greg Fuerst says that one deer donated to the program can feed up to 200 people. Anyone interested in donating monetarily to the Venison Donation Coalition can do so when they purchase their hunter’s license or by going online to www.venisondonationcoalition.com/donate.

Mitrano Reports Sharp Fundraising Increase
Tracy Mitrano’s congressional campaign reports a fundraising high of over $290,000 in the current filing period since July 1st . Mitrano says she is building a grassroots movement across the 23^rd district as she challenges GOP incumbent Tom Reed of Corning for his seat in Congress.

NY Permits Low-Risk Fall Activities like Corn Mazes & Hay Rides 
New guidance was given by the state yesterday for agritourism businesses as New York State enters the Fall season. Businesses considered low-risk outdoor arts and entertainment include corn mazes, hayrides, pick-your-own fruit and vegetable operations, farmers markets, craft beverage trails and haunted houses and are permitted to operate under New York’s NY Forward guidance. Petting zoos are not permitted.

Phone Scammers Posing As Contact Tracers
Scammers posing as contact tracers have called people and claiming they’ve has been exposed and that they need payment for a test kit. The scam claims if you don’t buy a test, you’ll be in legal violation, which is untrue. Scammer have also sent text messages with a link – requesting to click on it, or complete the payment that way. Scams like these are typically targeted at seniors to get information to steal their identity or bank account information.  Many have reported a spike in ‘junk’ phone calls over the past several months.

Alaska and Montana Added to NYS Travel Advisory
Alaska and Montana now meet the metrics to qualify for New York State’s COVID-19 travel advisory requiring individuals who have traveled to New York from areas with significant community spread to quarantine for 14 days. No areas have been removed from the list. The full, updated travel advisory list includes:

• Alaska
• Alabama
• Arkansas
• California
• Florida
• Georgia
• Guam
• Hawaii
• Iowa
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Minnesota
• Missouri
• Mississippi
• Montana
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Nebraska
• Nevada
• Oklahoma
• Puerto Rico
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Virginia
• Virgin Islands
• Wisconsin

Sidewalk Replacement Program Applications Available
Applications for the Sidewalk Replacement Program reintroduced by the Village of Bath and further details can be picked up at the Village of Bath Clerk’s Office from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. To participate in this program for a new sidewalk, property owners must contact the Clerk’s office at 110 Liberty Street.

Two Additional Steuben County COVID Cases Reported
Steuben County Public Health Department reports two additional Steuben County residents tested positive for COVID-19 since Saturday and brings the total to 327 confirmed cases, six of which are currently active.  The individuals are residents of the Town of Wayland and Village of Canisteo. Positive individuals are isolated and being monitored by the County Health Department. The Health Department also learned when officials went to visit a positive reported case last week, that they no longer resided in Steuben County as indicated on their test results. Originally listed from the Town of Rathbone, the case is no longer counted in Steuben’s case count and has been transferred to Chemung County where the individual moved before being tested. 

Hornell Man Arrested for Over 150 Counts of Child Sex Abuse
A Hornell man faces over 150 counts related to sexual abuse of children. According the Hornell Evening Tribune, 71-year-old William Cornish faces 50 counts each of first-degree criminal sex act, first-degree sexual abuse, and endangering the welfare of a child. Police say over a period of several years, Cornish abused several children but gave no further details.

O’Mara Wants Farm Wage Board to Push Back Overtime Requirement
State Senator Tom O’Mara continues voicing his strong opposition to any move by the state’s newly created Farm Laborers Wage Board and called on the Board to roll back the current 60-hour threshold which requires farmers to pay their employees overtime. O’Mara joined members of the Senate Republican Conference for a virtual news conference call on the state’s Farm Laborers Wage Board to delay any further action until at least 2024.  

Legislator Maio Resigns from Corning City Dems
Steuben County legislator Steven Maio has tendered his resignation from the City of Corning Democratic Committee. The Committee voted to accept the letter. Maio was arrested last month and charged with patronizing a prostitute.

NYSPHSAA Votes to Push Back Starting Winter Sports Season
The New York State Public High School Athletic Association’s COVID-19 task force yesterday voted to push back the start of this season’s winter sports schedule, agreeing to move the start date from Nov. 16th to Nov. 30th to give schools and sections more time to complete the fall athletic season. The fall season is scheduled to start Sept. 21st, a date delayed to further prepare for competition amid coronavirus concerns.

Butter Sculpture Revealed Virtually by NADA
Though the state fair was canceled due to COVID-19, the American Dairy Association North East still brought their dairy-based art to the fair after their annual sculpture was unveiled virtually today. Sculptors made the piece which shows a dairy farmer providing milk to a student learning at home as part of this year’s theme “Nourishing Our Future”. This is the 52^nd year the Dairy Association created a sculpture and this year’s creation used over 800 pounds of butter which will be recycled after it is done being on display and be used as fuel at a New York State dairy farm. Check out the sculpture on WETM’s news site: https://www.mytwintiers.com/news-cat/regional-news-news/new-york-state-fair-butter-sculpture-unveiled-virtually/

415 in Wayland Closed Today and Tomorrow
A section of State Route 415 in the town of Wayland is closed today and tomorrow. The Department of Transportation says it will be replacing a culvert pipe just south of County Road 36. That area of Route 415 will only be accessible for local traffic and emergency vehicles. A detour will be in place guiding motorists to use nearby exits to access Interstate 390. Construction activities are weather dependent and subject to change based on conditions.

VDC Encourages Monetary Donations this Hunting Season
The Venison Donation Coalition has always been based in Bath, in the heart of Steuben County since its inception in the late 90’s. VDC founder and former DEC Officer Greg Fuerst says the program celebrates its 20^th year anniversary this year and the goal is to raise awareness of the VDC’s mission to feed the public with quality venison. Fuerst reminds hunters purchasing their license that they can offer monetary donations to the program, which supports the labor of processing before it goes onto the shelves of food pantries in the area. Hear the full interview tomorrow on the WVIN Morning Show with Dave Taylor Smith and on Best of Community Focus Sunday morning on WABH or you can listen to the interview online at wvin.com/podcasts/community.

Avoca Man Arrested for Menacing and Other Charges
Steuben County Sheriff’s Office reports deputies arrested 60-year-old Thomas Parsels of Avoca following an investigation of a reported fight in the Town of Avoca. Parsels allegedly threatened another person with a weapon and struck them. Parsels was charged with Criminal Possession of a weapon in the Fourth Degree, Menacing in the Second Degree and Harassment in the Second Degree. Parsels was arraigned in the Centralized Arraignment Court and released.

Excelsior Scholarship Deadline Today
Despite the program’s uncertainty, today is he deadline for new applications this year to New York State’s Excelsior Scholarship. The program began in 2017 to help students who come from families making less than $125,000 annually go to college tuition free. Some lawmakers are wondering if the state will have enough money to welcome more students into the program.

Cuomo Credits New Yorkers for Lowering COVID Rates
With deaths and hospitalizations related to COVID-19 in the state at a new low, Governor Cuomo thanked and gave credit to New Yorkers who complied with health regulations and said they helped save tens of thousands of lives. Cuomo also anticipates that similar risks and rises in cases that have been associated with colleges opening will be seen in communities once K-12 schools reopen. Cuomo said a decision on whether casinos could reopen would come this week.

Food Bank Holds Hornell Food Distribution
The Food Bank of the Southern Tier held a food distribution today at Hornell High School to help those that are struggling financially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Community members reserved spots for the drive-through format distribution site to pick up 40-60 lbs of food while maintaining social distancing guidelines. Fellow local organizations like Steuben County’s  “Strong Kids, Safe Kids” were also there handing out information to help raise awareness to help keep their children strong and safe as they begin their first days of school.

One new cases of COVID-19 in Steuben County

A Steuben County resident from the Town of Thurston has tested positive for COVID 19 according to the health department. This brings the total to 326 confirmed cases, six of which are currently active. The individuals are isolated and being monitored by the County Health Department.  Public Health staff investigated and identified close contacts of the confirmed cases and exposure risks.  All those known to have direct contact with the individuals have been notified.

Cuomo reports record low COVID-19 infection rate in New York State

Governor Andrew Cuomo recently announced a new record low COVID-19 infection rate percentage in New York State, 0.65%. This figure is the lowest it has been since the pandemic began. In addition, New York State’s infection rate has been less than one percent every day for the past three weeks. The governor also announced that 8 million tests have now been administered in the state.

Prattsburgh requests tax payments be mailed

Prattsburgh Central School is asking that everyone mail their tax payments this year to tax collector Cassie Kennard, to avoid contact with staff and students, and to adhere to health and safety protocols for the tax collection season. Receipts will be mailed to taxpayers. Anyone with questions or concerns is asked to contact Cassie Kennard at 522-6203 to discuss options.

Locally owned Corning business to close up shop for good

After 42 years of business, The Glass Menagerie on Corning’s Market Street will close it doors for good. Jackie and Dick Pope, the owners of the family run shop have been planning on closing their store since Christmas, and say the decision was not made based on the pandemic. They hope to move closer to family and possibly travel with their newfound free time. They will be having a sale lasting through Labor Day.

Portion of Route 415 in Wayland to close this upcoming week for construction

The New York State Department of Transportation is advising motorists of an upcoming two-day closure, weather permitting, along route 415 in Wayland for the replacement of a culvert pipe south of County Route 36. Beginning Monday, August 31^st through Tuesday September 1^st, this section of road will be only available to local traffic and emergency vehicles. A detour will be in place guiding motorists to use nearby exits to access Interstate 390.