Tyrtle Beach Brings In Over $20,000 This Year

Bath Central School Music Director Neil Bryson's jump into Lake Salubria Friday raised "well over $20,000" for for youth activities in Steuben County, according to county Youth Bureau Coordinator Bill Caudill.  Accompanied by two drones and encouraged by a cheering crowd, Bryson was the latest in a long line of area notables who have taken the Tyrtle Beach plunge into the chilly water of the small lake, located just east of the Village of Bath.  The event has raised more than $740,000 in its 31-year history.

Canisteo Fatal Accident Victim Identified

State police have released the name of the fatal accident victim from the Thursday accident on Route 36 in the Canisteo area: 65 year old Gayle Vanskiver, of Canisteo, was killed in that two vehicle accident.  State Police report that it was a Troupsburg Town truck that struck Vanskiver’s vehicle, the Troupsburg Town Truck driver was not injured. 

Alfred Univ Gets A Big Military Contract

Alfred University has been awarded a $13.5 million federal contract to support a joint project with the U.S. Army to conduct advanced manufacturing and characterization research of high temperature materials. The contract provides $2.7 million per year for five years, from 2022-27, to fund joint research between Alfred University and DEVCOM (U.S. Army Capabilities Development Command), Army Research Laboratory (ARL).  Research will focus on improving the performance of ceramic materials used in weapons (i.e., cruise missiles),

FATAL ACCIDENT TODAY IN CANISTEO

State Police are reporting that there was a two vehicle accident in Canisteo today.    According to troopers, one person is dead, and a reconstruction team is at the scene right now.  The accident was on Route 36 between Bush Hill and Gravel Run, Canisteo.

State Appeals Court Ruling On The District Maps

Because of the state court of appeals ruling from yesterday, that the maps approved by Governor Kathy Hochul were invalid.  As a result, they’re going to have to draw up new maps and come up with, possibly, new candidates in the affected state senate and congressional races.  Therefore, the June 28^th primaries for State Senate and Congress are being moved into the month of August.  Steuben County Judge Pat McAllister has appointed a Carnegie-Melon professor, Steve Cervas, to redraw the new maps for the entire state's congressional and state senate lines.  

New Federal Judge For Northern District 

On Senator Chuck Schumer’s recommendation, President Joe Biden has nominated a Cornell University graduate, Judge Anne Nardacci, to be a Federal Judge in the Northern District of New York State. 

Drug Arrest On 390 Livingston County

The Livingston County Sheriff’s Department reports that they pulled over a vehicle that had 175 grams of meth and other drugs inside the car.  The three suspects, all from Allegany County, are facing numerous charges.  One of them is accused of having an illegal weapon inside the car too.

Embarrased Man Injures Himself,  Allegedly Lies To Cops

In Penn Yan, police there say a 46 year old man put a knife in his back pocket and accidentally injured himself while sitting down.  The story goes that the man was so embarrassed at the hospital that he made up a story about being stabbed by three attackers, and doctors brought police into the situation.  Police say that the 46 year old Penn Yan man ended up getting charged with falsely reporting an incident and making a false written statement.

NIce Trip To DC, For Vietnam Veterans And Their Families

After 10 months of planning, fund raising, and spreading the word, the Hornell VFW took Vietnam Veterans, and/or their spouses or family members to Washington DC, to see the Vietnam Memorial as well as the World War II memorial, the Korean War memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, the Navy Memorial & Museum. It was the VFW’s way of thanking the Vietnam veterans and letting them know they were not forgotten. The best part, was they didn’t have to pay to go. All monies were raised so, the veterans didn’t have to pay for the trip. They left Tuesday morning and arriving home late Wednesday night.

April 28 2022

WINNER WINS APPEALS COURT CASE
Today in Albany, the New York State Court of Appeals sided with the Republicans, represented by Elmira Attorney George Winner.   Upholding Judge McAllister's decision, the court said that McAllister’s map master will have to draw all new maps for the congress and state senate lines, and the New York State Primary will have to be delayed.  Instead of being held on June 28, in some cases, there will have to be another primary on a later date, requiring an all new political petition process.  It is not clear if all primaries will be delayed.   

Petition Objections Succesful Against Resue 

There is not going to be a GOP primary for Steuben County coroner.  There had been two candidates for cornoner, Mark Resue the Corning City Councilman, and Corning Police Chief Jeff Spaulding.   Spaulding has made petition objections to Resue’s political petition, and enough signatures were thrown out, so that Resue’s petition is now invalid.  We have not been able to reach Mark Resue, to see if he’s going to run for coroner on another line by newstime.

Bath Mayor: Nice To See Those Outside Of Bath, Coming In

Bath Village Mayor Mike Sweet says he’s toured the Bath Laundromat building, that was bought by Toby Snell.  The mayor says there’s some renovations going on there and he’s glad to see that businesses are coming in to Bath and see it as an opportunity.

Hammondsport Youth Baseball BBQ

The Hammondsport Youth Baseball Softball Program is selling Chicken BBQ Tickets for their Annual Fundraiser. Chicken BBQ is on Saturday, May 7th.

Schumer: We Need A New FTC Commissioner 
Senator Chuck Schumer says the U.S. Senate will soon get a new Federal Trade Commissioner named.  Schumer hopes the new FTC Head will crack down on corporate America, in particular, big oil.  "We see prices rise on everything, from groceries to everytime we fill up our gas tanks, Schumer said.  "But corporate America's profits are higher than ever.  Perhaps no sector has evoked more anger from the American people than the gas companies, and the prices they are charging."  

County Legislature Is Coming Up With Some New Maps 

Steuben County legislators are starting up redistricting for the county lawmaker district lines, this month.   Steuben County legislator Kelly Fitzpatrick says, the reason for the need for redistricting, is because the county’s population has decreased.   "We are not going to separate towns, we are not going to draw lines through the middle of Bath, or the middle of Campbell," FItzpatrick told Wvin.  "We are working to possibly make combinations of towns and villages in order to reach our goal of having 5500 people per district, for each legislator," Fitzpatrick said.  There will be a county wide public referendum to decide whether to approve the maps that the county comes up with, the public referendum will be in November. 
 

Gov Hochul's New Office Of Workforce Development 

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the creation of the New York State Office of Strategic Workforce Development, which the governor says, is an office that will be charged with improving the State's workforce development programs and practices to better align with the needs and priorities of today's employers.  

Accident Update 

There was an accident Sunday night on I-86 near Exit 41, in the Campbell area, Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard says the crash involved three cars and a tractor trailer, that was at about 7pm Sunday.  The sheriff also says one person was flown to a trauma center for emergency medical treatment and later released from that facility.  Two others were treated at the scene and not transported.  The Steuben County Sheriff’s Office Collision Reconstruction Team investigated  the crash and Sheriff Allard thanks the Campbell Volunteer Fire Department for their assistance in traffic direction and control.

Avoca Woman Allegedly Misses A Court Appearance 

Canisteo Police Chief Kyle Amidon reports that a 36 year old Avoca woman was arrested for allegedly skipping out on a court appearance to answer to a charge of 7^th degree Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance.  Police Chief Amidon says Canisteo Police found out that the suspect was at a residence in Canisteo and they picked her up and charged her.  The suspect, Jessica Horton, was taken to centralized arraignment court in Bath. 

Elmira Man Is Facing Menacing Charges

Elmira Police report that a suspect there has been charged for allegedly using a bb gun and pretending it was a more powerful handgun than it actually was.  The suspect is a 26 year old male, whose charged with menacing. 

Traffic Safety Week In Hammondsport 

Hammondsport police say it’s traffic safety week, and today, Hammondsport police are looking for speeders in school zones.  

Big Thanks To Two Local Residents 

The bath fire department is thanking Lisa and Michael Fox who went around painting fire hydrants along East Morris Street Saturday.  Officials with the Bath Fire Department say that about 20 fire hydrants were painted on saturday in Bath. 

Avoca/Prattsburgh Sports Scores

The Avoca/Prattsburgh Boys Modified Baseball team picked up another win on Saturday defeating Addison by the score of 11-7. And the Avoca-Prattsburgh Varsity Softball team took a hard-fought loss to the Knights of Addison on Friday night, 6-5 was the final score. The team travels to Wayland-Cohocton tonight to take on the Lady Eagles. Game time is 4:30 pm.

Three Arrests Made By Bath Village Police 

From Bath Police Chief Colin Taft: On 4/17/2022 around 2:06am the Village of Bath Police Department reports the arrest of Angelo J. Hurlburt, age 48, of Arkport, NY. Hurlburt was arrested on an arrest warrant through the Village of Bath Police Department for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 3^rd, a class B Felony. Livingston County Sheriff Office located Hurlburt in the Village of Dansville and he was then turned over to the Bath Police Department.  This arrest warrant stems from a traffic stop that occurred on March 8^th, where Hurlburt was operating a vehicle in the Village of Bath on East Morris St. A lock box was seized by Officers and a search warrant was obtained at a later time. In the meantime, Hurlburt was released and a warrant for his arrest was requested. Inside the box was 58.54 grams of methamphetamines.  Hurlburt was processed on his charges and then transported to the Steuben County Jail.

On 4/22/2022, around 1:10am, the Village of Bath Police Department reports the arrest of Terry C. Long, age 21, of Manor Village in the Village of Bath. Terry Long was arrested for Grand Larceny 4^th, a class E Felony.  This arrest comes from an incident in January, 2022 and multiple dates to April, 2022 when Long was working at the Verizon Store on W. Morris St. in the Village of Bath. The victim reported the unauthorized purchases on April 18^th, 2022. The customer at the time had to provide Long with credit card information. Long took the information and made multiple purchases with the victim’s credit card information for hundreds of dollars.  Long was given an appearance ticket and is due back in Bath Village Court at a later date.

On 4/21/2022 around 8:26pm, the Village of Bath Police Department reports the arrest of Alexis J. Larkin, age 25, of Bath. Larkin was arrested for Petit Larceny and Criminal Possession of Stolen Property 5^th, both class A Misdemeanors.  This arrest stems from an incident that occurred earlier in the day around 1:30pm on Pine Street. Larkin was observed on a home surveillance camera, going to the victim’s home and stealing packages on the victim’s porch. During the arrest, she turned over some of the stolen property back to Bath Police Officers.

Larkin was arrested in January for stealing packages from another resident on Gansevoort St. in the Village of Bath.            Due to NYS Bail reform, Larkin was released on appearance tickets and is due back in Bath Village court at a later date.

Tyrtle Beach 2022 Update

 Two veteran jumpers showed up Friday at the WVIN-FM radio station to urge listeners – and people across central Steuben County – to donate to the Tyrtle Beach fundraiser, now in its 31st year. Campbell-Savona Central School Principal Kelley Meade and Bath Central School Superintendent Joe Rumsey joined radio personality Dave Taylor Smith to take pledges during their two-hour stint. Their efforts added nearly $1,000 to the $9,047 raised since Apr. 1 through various contributions,

Set for 5:30-7 pm, Apr. 29 on Lake Salubria in the Town of Bath, the event will feature Bath Central School Music Director Neil Bryson as the Tyrtle Beach Jumper. A popular springtime tradition in Steuben since Smith created the event as the original jumper in 1992, the fundraiser has raised more than $760,000 for youth programs in central Steuben in 30 years. County Legislator Kelly Fitzpatrick, R-Bath raised more than $22,000 in 2021 by staging a triathlete entry into the glacial lake. For more information and information on donations visit the Tyrtle Beach website (www.tyrtlebeach.com) or Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Tyrtle-Beach-471935212855803/ or call county Youth Bureau Coordinator Bill Caudill at (607) 664-2119.

Rep. Tom Reed’s "Farewell" Corning Town Hall.

"Last night's 'farewell' town hall was held where it all began, Corning City Hall. We announced our first campaign from that same room, and that is why it was such a special night for us," said Reed last night to Corning area residents. "We are grateful to everyone who joined us, and we thank them for their important insights. We care about the open and honest exchange of ideas, and that is why town halls like these have been so important to us during our time in congress."

Throughout his Congressional career, Reed held over 200 Town Hall Meetings. Joining him at Tuesday's Town Hall were Assemblyman Phil Palmesano and Corning Mayor Bill Boland. 

Palmesano Condemns Violence At Elmira Correctional 

Assemblyman Phil Palmesano, who is on the state assembly’s corrections committee, says that this problem of prison violence increasing statewide, is a result of the state’s policies of taking away drug sniffing dogs, ordering double bunking of inmates because of prison closures and lessening disciplinary measures against inmates for assaults.  "They're not keeping the drugs out of the facilities, which causes more violence and gang activity," Palmesano said.

On The Agenda, At The Next County Legislature Meeting

Coming up on Monday, April 25, the Steuben County Legislature will meet and discuss, among other things, possibly creating a full time assistant public defenders job with the county.

A Bath Man Is Facing A Serious Accusation

The Bath Police Department arrested Deven L. Miller, age 28, of 18 W. Steuben St., Bath, NY for Endangering the Welfare of a Child, a class A misdemeanor.  Mr. Miller was taken to the centralized arraignment court to be arraigned and issued an order of protection.  The arrest stems from an allegation that Mr. Miller failed to seek medical attention for cigarette burns to his 3 year old child’s hand.

Reed's Last Town Hall, Tenney's Tour Of Chemung County

The last Congressman Reed Town Hall in Corning is at the Corning City Hall from 530 to 630 this evening.  Reed’s likely successor in the new 23rd Congressional District, Rep. Claudia Tenney (R, Utica), was in Horseheads and Elmira yesterday, visiting numerous businesses there.  Tenney spoke highly of her stops at places like the Hilliard Corporation and Southern Tier Logistics.  

Masks Are Back In Airports, Bus Stations, Taxi's, Etc

The state  health commissioner is ordering that masks be worn on all planes, trains and buses and wear masks at all airports, bus stations, train stations, subways.  The governor's office says that the state health commissioner’s determination on masking in certain indoor settings follows CDC public health guidance, not the regulations struck down by a federal judge in Florida.  At least one Republican doesn’t like this new rule from Albany.  "The more things change the more they stay the same," Assemblyman Joe Giglio (R, Olean) told Wvin News.  "I don't like it when government tries to micromanage people."  

Amazon Is Coming To Bath Update

Steuben County Industrial Development Agency Director Jamie Johnson says, the County IDA board approved awarding the Amazon bid for work on the turning lane, to Dalrymple Gravel and Contracting pending final review of the materials by the IDA engineering firm and attorney.  Johnson says he expects this review to be completed by mid-next week. 

Six Elmira Correctional Employees Injured By Prisoners

Elmira, NY –  A sergeant and five officers were injured at Elmira Correctional Facility after two separate attacks at the maximum security prison last week.   Here's what officials say: that the first incident occurred on Thursday, April 14.  An officer observed an inmate at one of the facility kiosks without permission.  The officer ordered the inmate to leave the kiosk and return to his cell.  The inmate ignored the officer’s orders,  suddenly turned and struck the officer in the face.  The officer immediately grabbed the inmate in a body hold and forced him to the ground.  Once on the ground and contained, the inmate became compliant.  He was removed from the area and placed in a Special Housing Unit pending disciplinary charges. 

The inmate, 25, is serving a 10 year sentence after being convicted in Kings County for Assault 1^st and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 4^th in 2017.

The officer sustained abrasions and swelling to his face.  He was treated by facility medical staff and remained on duty. 

The second assault occurred the following day. An inmate, already in a Special Housing Unit on disciplinary measures, made a suicidal gesture to a sergeant by swallowing small pieces of his feed tray cover and taking a piece of it and putting it against his neck.  The sergeant ordered the cell door opened and five officers entered the cell. Before staff could contain the inmate, the inmate struck one officer in the face.  The officers grabbed the inmate in a body hold and removed the piece of tray cover from his hand.   

Still combative and attempting to kick officers, he was placed in handcuffs and removed from the cell. 

During an escort to the infirmary, the inmate pulled away from two officers, spit and struck the sergeant in the body, and struck an officer in the face.  Staff immediately grabbed him in body holds and forced him to the ground.  Once on the ground, he became compliant again.   

The inmate, 27, is serving a six year sentence after being convicted in Westchester County in 2018 for Strangulation 2^nd, Attempted Robbery 2^nd and Burglary 3^rd. 

He faces disciplinary charges in the attack. 

Four officers and a sergeant were injured in the incident.  One officer sustained a concussion, left eye abrasion and back pain.  He was treated at an outside hospital for his injuries. He did not return to duty.    

The sergeant and three other officers were treated by facility medical staff for shoulder, hand, swelling and abrasions and small laceration to an arm.  They remained on duty.    

Bath Man Accused Of Stealing A Utility Trailer

State Police report that 65 year old Terry Campbell of Bath, is accused of stealing a utility trailer in Bath, a utility trailer worth over $1200.  Campbell was charged with 4^th degree grand larceny, he was ticketed and released. 

Plans For Replacing Two County Highway Shops

Steuben County Manager Jack Wheeler says, the county is going to be able to use ARPA Funding, in order to replace a couple of county highway department shops, one of them in Bath and one in Campbell.  “These shops are approaching 50 to 60 years old, so it’s time, and thankfully with the federal funds we’ll be able to do these improvements, without county taxpayers shouldering that burden,” Wheeler told Wvin News.    

Summer Cleanup Plans For Steuben County 

Steuben County Lawmaker Kelly Fitzpatrick says, the county public works department is going to be working with towns and villages across the county, to do a number of cleanup jobs.  “The Steuben County Public Works Department will designate the summertime and allow local municipalities to pick a two week time frame, so if a town/village wants to do some roadside cleanup, they can, in that time period, and then take the trash to the county landfill, free of charge,” Fitzpatrick said.  “Also, we’re working on setting up recycling days, so that there will be certain types of materials that the general public will be able to take to the landfill, which will also be free of charge as well.  Then we will also have a low cost tire day, to get rid of those tires that seem to be on the side of the road.”    

Hammondsport Central's Gas Card Program

Hammondsport Central School is thanking MicroSolutions for donating $1,000 worth of Kwik Fill gas cards for students and families in need.

Despite Judge's Ruling, Mask Rules Still In Effect In NYS 

According to Governor Kathy Hochul, the New York State  Health Commissioner is ordering that masks be worn on all planes, trains and buses and wear masks at all airports, bus stations, train stations, subways.  "The state health commissioner’s determination on masking in certain indoor settings follows CDC public health guidance, not the regulations struck down by a federal judge in Florida," said Sam Fuld, from the governor's office. "The Commissioner’s determination was issued in accordance with the emergency regulation which has been renewed by the Public Health and Health Planning Council (PHHPC) until June 21."

Tonya Smith Update.

The latest on the case is, that the closing written arguments in the Tonya Smith case have not been turned in yet.  A Steuben County Court official tells Wvin News that the defense has until April 29 to turn in closing written arguments to Judge Phil Roche.  The district attorney’s office has till May 6 to turn in written arguments, so we won’t know until May 7 or later, what Judge Roche’s decision is.  Tonya Smith is the Painted Post woman who is accused of being the driver in a fatal DWI that claimed the life of Don Masti in Bath, in 2019. 

Upcoming Neighborhood Watch Meeting In Bath

The Village of Bath Police Department will be hosting a Neighborhood Watch meeting a week from tomorrow, on Wednesday April 27^th from 5 pm-6 pm.  Officer Johnson will be covering the topic of “Reporting Suspicious Activity”. This will include a slide show presentation and an open discussion to follow. The meeting will be held in the upstairs training room located at the Village of Bath Police Department. 

Another MADD Award For Steuben County Sheriff’s Deputy VanSkiver

Steuben County Sheriff’s Deputy Josh VanSkiver was given another award from Mothers Against Drunk Driving for making over 3,000 career DWI/DWAI arrests during his 17-year career.  They say VanSkiver has received the award 11 times. Sheriff Jim Allar says Deputy VanSkiver has made half of the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office drunk and drugged driving arrests since 2018.

Steuben County Covid Update April 19, 2022

Between Monday of last week and yesterday, there were 290 new cases of the Covid in Steuben County. 

Statement From Hammondsport Central School: 

Hammondsport Central School was notified over the weekend that on Thursday April 14th, one of our cleaning employees, Jonathan Wells, was arrested in connection with an alleged inappropriate relationship with a minor. The alleged incidents did not occur on the school campus and, from what we know, are limited to one child. Mr. Wells faces serious charges and therefore a court order has been issued that he cannot be on school grounds or in contact with this child. Our School Resource Officer has been made aware of this restriction. The Steuben County Sheriff’s Department and our local police are conducting a full investigation and will keep us informed if there is anything further we need to know as it pertains to the District. The District is in full cooperation with their investigation and we are currently conducting our own internal investigation as well. We strongly urge anyone with relevant information to report it to the police and Superintendent Bower immediately. As this is a criminal matter and an ongoing investigation, we will look to the Sheriff’s Department to provide us and the community with any updates.

STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR KATHY HOCHUL ON THE U.S. SUPREME COURT DECLINING APPEAL REGARDING CAP ON FEDERAL DEDUCTION FOR STATE AND LOCAL TAXES 

April 18 2022

Unrelated Car Thief Incidents In Bath Over The Weekend

Two cars were stolen in Bath on Easter weekend.  Both vehicles were stolen on Saturday and then found by Bath Village Police on Sunday.  Bath Police Chief Colin Taft says, 28 year old Brandon McCarn of Lindley, was charged with 4^th degree grand larceny and 4^th degree criminal possession of stolen property.  That’s for allegedly taking a car for a drive on Saturday.  Bath Police spotted the stolen vehicle on West Morris Street Bath on Sunday morning in the 9:00 hour, and pulled over McCarn and took him into custody without incident.  Police Chief Taft says McCarn was ticketed and released due to bail reform laws.  Also, a 41 year old Bath man, Ezeakle Wydra, is accused of 4^th degree grand larceny and authorized use of a motor vehicle.  That’s for allegedly taking a vehicle that was parked on Lackawanna Avenue in Bath on Saturday.  Wydra was spotted and pulled over and charged on Sunday afternoon.   

Gov Hochul: I’m Not Going To Do Another Lockdown

Appearing on the Cats Round Table radio show on Wabc yesterday, Governor Kathy Hochul said, she will not do another lockdown.  “I’m not going to shut it down again, you can count on that,” Hochul told Wabc’s John Castitimidis.  

Reed Returns From Germany/Poland, Gillibrand Is Heading To Those Places

Congressman Tom Reed just got back from a recent trip to Germany, Denmark, Poland, and Greenland, it was part of a bipartisan House delegation.  Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is going to make a trip to Poland, Germany and India over the next nine days.  Gillibrand says they’re going to find out how the U.S. can continue to support Ukraine and NATO allies against Russia.  “This strong congressional delegation will have the opportunity to meet with U.S. military leadership and troops in Poland in order to learn how the U.S. can continue to support Ukraine and our NATO allies against Russia’s unprovoked and unwarranted war,” Gillibrand said in a joint statement.  “In addition, the delegation will meet with a number of key foreign leaders in Poland, UAE, India, Nepal and Germany to strengthen ties during this period of heightened global tension.”

Update On The Tonya Smith Case

Tonya Smith is the Painted Post woman accused of the fatal DWI that claimed the life of Donnie Masti,  back in 2019 in Bath.  The latest is, that a Steuben County Court official tells our news department that the closing written arguments have not been submitted yet, and that’s why there has not been a decision yet from Judge Phil Roach.

Flooding Damage Federal Assistance For Canisteo

 On August 18th severe flooding hit numerous Steuben County towns and villages, including Canisteo. Congressman Tom Reed has announced, that the USDA is getting a grant for about $149,000 to Canisteo, to replace a big part of a water main that was broken during the August 18th flooding. Reed said “This investment will help ensure that the Village of Canisteo has the improvements they deserve for a safe and maintained public water system.”

Gillibrand Continues To Push For Funding Pit Burn Recovery Healthcare $

Veterans and service members are sick and dying right now. Congress can't keep kicking this can down the road -- lives are at stake right now. We must pass legislation to get our heroes exposed to toxic burn pits the care they need now.  We sent these brave servicemembers on tours of duty that exposed them to dangerous conditions on the battlefield and off. We asked them to live in places around the world where burn pits were used to destroy everything from plastics and electronics to human waste, creating toxic, poisonous air and we asked them to breathe it in every day. Just because these toxic wounds are hidden, it doesn’t mean that we can ignore them. We have the responsibility and obligation to help. This healthcare is the cost of war. And we have to pay it.

Update On Drugs/Prostitution Ring Case

Larry Comfort Sr., of Elmira Heights, who has pleaded guilty in a drugs and prostitution case in Steuben County Court, will be sentenced today.  Comfort could get up to 10 years.

Tom Reed Is On Russia's List Of Sanctioned Congressmen

NYC Subway Shooter Suspect Was Apprehended

Governor Kathy Hochul and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand issued statements saying that they were relieved about the arrest of the subway shooter suspect.  From Senator Gillibrand: "I am relieved that the suspect in the subway shooting has been arrested and I'm deeply grateful to our law enforcement officers and emergency personnel for their incredible response. I also want to thank all the New Yorkers who called in tips that led to this arrest. I continue to pray for the victims and their families and wish them a speedy recovery. We must do more to combat the epidemic of gun violence and I will be working hard with our state and local officials to get illegal guns off our streets."  From Governor Hochul:   "Like all New Yorkers, I am deeply grateful that the suspect in yesterday's subway shooting has been apprehended and thankful for law enforcement and every first responder whose heroic efforts helped New York City respond to this horrific incident. I have directed all State agencies to provide every possible resource to assist in the investigation.  My heart is with all those who are injured, their loved ones, and the entire Sunset Park community. The epidemic of gun violence that continues to terrorize communities across this country must end. My pledge to New Yorkers is this: I will fight every day to restore public safety, get guns off our streets, and prevent these horrific acts of violence."

Schumer Continues To Push For Cancelling Student Debt

Senator Chuck Schumer says that he supports canceling more than $50,000 in student debt, per borrower.   “One of the best, very best, top-of-the-list ways to do it is by canceling student debt, by getting rid of the $50,000, even going higher after that,” Schumer stated.

Update On The Genesee PA Fire

The fire that claimed the lives of five kids in Genesee Township, Potter County has been ruled accidental.  The fire happened early Monday on Slingerland Road in Genesee Township.  The parents are still at Strong.  Pennsylvania state police spokesperson Lauren Lesher says that three of their children, Raymond, Triston and Evan Erway died in the fire. Two 16-year-old Allegany County girls, Mikalah Roulo and Krysta Kane also died in the Monday fire in Genesee.

Update On The Fatal Fire In Genesee Pennsylvania

Its being reported on social media and elsewhere that two Allegany county residents were killed in yesterday’s fire, Mikalah Roulo, 16, a sophomore at Wellsville High School and Krysta Kane, 16, a sophomore at Scio Central School.

From Jeff Spaulding, Police Chief for the City of Corning:  "It has come to the attention of the City of Corning Police Department that there is a mail package being sent to residents from an organization calling themselves “Citizens Behind the Badge”. They purport to raise funds on behalf of the City of Corning Police Department. Although this organization is a registered not-for-profit group, The City of Corning Police Department, and the Crystal City Police Benevolent Association, have no association with them, and cannot vouch for their reliability. The City of Corning does not receive the funds donated and it is believed that the donated funds do not stay in our community.  The Police Department would like all residents to be aware that this is circulating around our community. Please be aware, and residents should do their own research anytime they receive any type of fund-raising requests to try and ensure that the request is legitimate.” 

LT Governor Brian Benjamin Has Been Charged By The Feds

This morning, the U.S. Attorneys Office and the FBI announced that Lt Governor Brian Benjamin, was accused of using $50,000 in taxpayer money, to a political donor.  From Steuben County Democrat Chairman Shawn Hogan: “I am angry first and foremost that Brian Benjamin failed to reveal to Governor Hochul that he was under investigation during her LG selection process. We all agree that you are innocent until proven guilty. However I strongly believe that LG should immediately resign for his failure to reveal he was under investigation. Governor Hochul should move quickly to insure he resigns.”  

From Assemblywoman Majorie Byrnes: “As disappointing as this news is, it should not come as a shock as this administration is simply a continuation of the previous administration’s corruption. Moreover, both the governor and lieutenant governor are unelected political appointees who have passed the most expensive budget in state history in the most secretive process in recent memory and failed to include meaningful reforms. All I can say is that taxpayers, the hardworking men and women of this state, deserve better.”

PA Woman Is Accused Of Stealing Two Cars In Steuben Co

A Pennsylvania woman is accused of stealing one car and then another and dropping them both off in different Steuben County towns.  Sheriff Jim Allard reports that a 31 Williamsport area woman is accused of stealing a vehicle from Tuscarora and abandoning it in Woodhull, stealing another vehicle in Woodhull and dropping that vehicle in Addison.  The suspect, Morrisa Stutzman, was charged with 4^th degree grand larceny and endangering the welfare of a child, because a child under age 17 was allegedly with Stutzman at the time.  Stutzaman was arraigned and released. 

Covid Update, April 11, 2022

Steuben County Public Health reports that there have been 195 covid cases since Monday of last week.  Public Health also says, lab tests are up a bit and home tests have slightly decreased.

Bids Being Taken In The Town Of Campbell

The Town of Campbell announced today, that they’re taking bids for a water systems improvement project and for the construction of a new well.   

Contract #1 – Water System Improvements Project 

Contract #2 – Evergreen Place Well & Control Building Project

Bids shall be enclosed in a sealed, post-paid envelope marked “Campbell (T) Water District #1 Extension #1” and label with the appropriate contract. The envelope shall be addressed to the Town of Campbell, 8529 Main Street, Campbell, NY 14821, Attn: Town Supervisor, Jeffrey Horton.  Such bids shall be received at the Campbell Town Hall until 1:00 p.m., May 17, 2022, at which time the bids will be opened and read aloud.   

All bids must be accompanied by a security deposit in the amount of FIVE PERCENT (5%) of the amount of the base bid in the form and subject to the conditions provided in the Contract Documents.  

GOP Reaction To State Budget Highlights, Good And Bad

Republicans are now saying that the changes made and passed with the rest of the state budget on Saturday morning are not enough.  State Senator Tom O’Mara listed off the crimes that are still not eligible for holding a suspect on bail: those charged with 2^nd degree unlawful imprisonment, 3^rd degree burglary, 2^nd degree robbery for first time offenders, 3^rd degree robbery for first time offenders, 3^rd, 4^th and 5^th degree arson for first time offenders.  O’Mara is pleased though, that the new state budget eliminates the Fiber Optic Tax.  "This ‘fiber tax’ repeal is the single most important action the state can immediately take to try to ensure that broadband development across rural, upstate New York receives an equal and fair commitment,” O'Mara stated.  

Double Fatal Overdose In Bath Overnight

From Bath Village Police Chief Colin Taft: “The Village of Bath Police Department is investigating a suspected double fatal overdose case that came in around 12:30 last night.  It is suspected that fentanyl killed both parties and an autopsy and toxicology is being performed.  Both parties resided together.  There is no such thing as just heroin any more, it is all mixed with different percentages of fentanyl.  The only safe bet is to never try it.”

Drug Arrests In Howard 

From State Police: On April 8, 2022, members of Troop E VGNET, and State Police uniform members conducted a narcotic investigation at 7558 Moss Road, Howard, N.Y.  The State Police, Special Operations Response Team, executed a dynamic entry at the residence without incident.  The following evidence was secured by New York State Police.

Approximately 1/2 oz of methamphetamine

Approximately 50lbs of processed marihuana

Approximately 134 marihuana plants in various stages of growth

A defaced, loaded 45 cal, Smith & Wesson handgun

A sawed- off, loaded, 12 gauge Mossberg shotgun

Digital scales

Packaging materials

A narcotic press

Multiple 9mm Glock magazines

Numerous 9mm and 45 caliber rounds   

Arrested:

John A. Dellapenna Jr., age 34, of 7558 Moss Road, Howard, NY for Criminal Possession of a Weapon 2^nd  Degree, (2 counts), Criminal Possession of a Weapon  3^rd Degree, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 3^rd Degree, Criminal Using Drug Paraphernalia 2^nd Degree, (2 counts).

John A. Dellapenna, age 57, of 7558 Moss Road, Howard, NY for Criminal Possession of Cannabis 1^st Degree.

Lori A. Miller, age 57, of 7558 Moss Road, Howard, NY for Criminal Possession of a Weapon 2^nd Degree, and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 3^rd Degree.

All subjects to be arraigned at Steuben County CAP on today.

The arrests were the culmination of a multiple month investigation by the New York State Police, the Elmira Police Department Drug Enforcement Unit, and the Steuben County District Attorney’s office.   

Waiting On The Judge’s Decision, On The Tonya Smith Case

The case against Tonya Smith of Painted Post, who officials say, was responsible for running over Bath resident Don Masti in 2019, finished up in court this week.  On Monday, the defense expert witness took issue with the prosecution’s argument about what Tonya Smith’s blood alcohol content was, at the time of the crash.  Also, the defense called a witness about a bottle of vodka found at Tonya’s residence afterwards.  Then on Wednesday, the D.A.’s office brought in an expert, to argue against what the defense said on Monday and the D.A.’s witness argued that the blood alcohol content was over .18.  Judge Phillip Roche, has not made a verdict as of yet. 

Awaiting The Decision On The Maps

Rochester Judge Stephen Lindley said he would make a decision sometime today, on whether to continue to block Judge Pat McAllister’s ruling that the maps were unconstitutional. 

Governor Kathy Hochul says, the budget will be all finished, sometime today or tomorrow.  The governor says there has been a tentative agreement, that it’s a $220 million dollar budget, that the state’s tax on gasoline is going to be suspended from June through December, Hochul is asking counties to do the same.

Update On The Tonya Smith/Donald Masti Case

The case against Tonya Smith of Painted Post, has ended in Steuben County Court.  A court official tells Wvin News that  Judge Phil Roche reserved a verdict.  There is no word yet on when the verdict will be decided.  Tonya Smith is accused of being the driver in a fatal DWI accident, that caused the death of 56 year old Donni Masti in Bath, in 2019. 

A Brief Lockdown In Hornell Schools Today

Hornell Schools were briefly under a lockdown around 12 noon, but the schools are no longer in lockdown mode.  Hornell Police say the schools were under a lockdown for less than five minutes, and that for that short period of time, all of the schools in Hornell were under lockdown.  The cause of this, according to Hornell Police Chief Ted Murray, was that there was an unfounded complaint call about a shooting situation in the Town of Hornellsvillle, North of North Hornell, and from what they can tell at this point, there was no shooting at all.  “9-1-1 ended up with a report earlier today of an incident that was outside the City of Hornell, alleging that there was a violent incident that occurred,” Chief Murray told to Wlea News.  “Just as a precautionary measure, we always do this, we locked down our schools.  So we did that as a precaution.  Since then, we’ve found out that the incident that was reported, was completely unfounded, and there was no violent incident, and there was no situation of violence.”  State Police are investigating.

It’s Political Petition Deadline Day

Today is the deadline for political petitions to run for office, to be turned in, both in Steuben County and to the state.  Those who were turning in petitions to run for state senate or congress, have to go by the new maps approved by Governor Kathy Hochul.  Steuben County Democrats say there will be a Democrat candidate running against Republican Assemblywoman Marjorie Byrnes, the candidates name is Sara Spezzano, who is from the Monroe County Town of Wheatland.  Democrats are also running Tioga County retired Air Force Col. Max Della Pia for Congress, to run against Congresswoman Claudia Tenney.  Also, both Tenney and Della Pia have both filed their petitions.

The old Phillips Lighting Building in Bath is being demolished. 

“As part of the company’s ongoing cleanup efforts they have begun the process of tearing the building down,” said Steuben County Industrial Development Agency Director Jamie Johnson.  “The IDA has been engaged in discussions with company on redevelopment opportunities once the work is completed.”  Bath Village Mayor Mike Sweet tells Wvin News that when the demolition is finished, that location will be sold, but there are no specific buyers at this point.  “That’s a ways away,” Sweet said.  “They will be putting it up for sale once it’s demolished and all taken care of, they’re doing it so that somebody will buy it,” Sweet stated.                        

Increase In Child Abuse In Steuben County

Steuben County officials put out a statement today, saying that there’s been a big increase in child abuse and neglect.  Steuben County District Attorney Brooks Baker says it’s five times worse than they expected it to be.  The D.A. says there’s a 90 percent increase in physical and sexual abuse in the county, and a big increase in juveniles abusing other juveniles.  Steuben County officials have assisted in investigations by the FBI, Livingston, Schuyler and Yates counties and New York State Police. 

Congrats, To Local Fire Fighters, For Years Of Service

The Bath Volunteer Fire Department is congratulating the following members for their service to the Bath fire department: Larry Storm, Joe Washburn and Chris Kincella…Storm has been with the Bath Fire Department for 20 years, Washburn for 20 years also, and Kincella for 10 years.

Political Petitions And The Old Maps And New Maps

Political Petitions to run for office in local, county or statewide races, are due Thursday, April 7, at 500pm.  Steuben County Democrat Chairman Shawn Hogan says, because there is a stay, on Judge McAllister’s ruling, that petitions have to be filed, with the old maps in mind.  But, Hogan says, if the maps are eventually changed, then the petitions will have to be done all over again, according to the changed maps.  Steuben County Republican Chairman Joe Sempolinski agrees with Hogan on that and Sempolinski made the following statement: “Because of the stay that’s in place, petitions are being filed as scheduled.  However, because of the clear unconstitutionality of the maps that were signed into law, I anticipate that the maps may be changed at a future date.”

Why State Employees Might Get Paid Later Than Usual This Week

If you’re a state employee, you should know that State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli says, your checks might be late this week.  That’s due to the state budget not being finished yet.  A budget extender was passed by the legislature, to get the state workers paid until the budget is done, but, the extender was not signed on time. 

Police: Avoca Man Pulls Knife On Bystanders

Penn Yan Police arrested Zachary R. Waite, 30, of Avoca, NY, for Menacing 2nd and Criminal Possession of a Weapon 4th following an incident on Lake Street in Penn Yan. Waite was allegedly arguing with a female in a parking lot when four bystanders saw the argument and asked the female if she was okay. The bystanders reported that they believed the female was in distress and appeared to want to get away from Waite. Waite then reportedly pulled a knife on the four individuals and brandished it at them. Waite then left the area on foot and was found by officers a short time later on Liberty Street. Officers took Waite into custody and confiscated the knife. Waite was processed and held for CAP arraignment.

Borrello Puts Up A Fight Against DOH Regulation

State Senator George Borrello held a press conference on Tuesday morning in Albany.  During the event, the senator talked about a new regulation from the state health department.  Senator Borrello says it’s called 10 NYCRR, and is being challenged in a lawsuit filed in the state supreme court.  Borrello maintains, that’s because the regulation has vague language about how anyone with a “communicable disease”, can be taken out of their homes and placed somewhere else.   The language of the regulation does not list which communicable disease the health department is concerned about, or where patients would be placed.  Borrello says one assemblyman tried, and failed, to get this done as a law, but it had no support in either assembly or the state senate.

Gillibrand To Hold A Press Conference About Military Suicide Rate

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, chair of the Senate Armed Services Personnel Subcommittee, will chair a hearing on suicide in the armed forces at 10 AM on Wednesday, April 6.  Following the hearing, Senator Gillibrand will hold a video press conference at 1:30 PM to discuss findings from the morning’s hearing and her Senate priorities to address the rising toll of suicide in the military. Gillibrand will also be announcing a letter to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin calling for details on the department’s actions to address lapses in delivering timely access to mental health care for service members.

April 4, 2022, Steuben County Covid Update

171 new COVID positive tests have been reported since last week's update. Sadly, another resident has passed (an 82 year old man in the Town of Erwin). The community level remains low, while home tests have increased significantly. CDC does not track home test results, so the community levels are unable to incorporate that data.

A Decision From A Rochester Judge, About Judge McAllister’s Decision On The Maps

Judge Stephen Lindley, a 4^th Department Appellate Division of the State Supreme Court, has issued a “stay” on Steuben County Surrogate Judge McAllister’s ruling, on the state and congressional maps that were approved by Governor Kathy Hochul (McAllister ruled that the Hochul-approved maps, were unconstitutional).  There will be a hearing on Thursday in Justice Lindley’s court in Rochester, where it will be decided if the stay remains in place.  One source says, that Justice Lindley is a moderate Democrat, and that the Democrats went to an intermediate appellate court judge, possibly in order to stall and keep the process going so long, that it will make it difficult for new maps to be drawn this year.

Senator Tom O’Mara: Mixed Feelings About The New Buffalo Bills Stadium

The Buffalo Bills Stadium deal is part of this year’s budget, word is downstate Democrats are opposed to the amount of money going to Erie County to help the upstate Buffalo Bills.  Locally, State Senator Tom O’Mara says, while the deal is a great thing for buffalo, the $600 million dollars the state would pay, is over 30 percent of what the new stadium would cost.

The Budget Is Not Finished, But Might Be By Friday

The state legislature was supposed to have their budget done on Friday April 1st and it’s still not done.  There are two issues that Governor Kathy Hochul, State Senator Andrea Stewart Cousins and Assembly Speaker Karl Heastie could not agree on so far: making changes to Bail Reform and making changes to Discovery Reform. 

Reed Votes Against Marijuana Changes

Congressman Tom Reed was a no vote on today’s house vote about marijuana.  The legislation is called House Resolution 3617, the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement act, which among other things, will, remove marijuana from the controlled substance list and decriminalizes marijuana.  It also ends mandatory job drug testing for marijuana, and sets up a trust fund (though it doesn’t say what the trust fund is exactly for).  HR 3617 passed in the House today. 

Sheriff Lists The Investigations That Were Handled Last Month

For the month of March, 2022, Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard says the sheriff’s office investigated five deaths, three assaults, one burglary investigation, one animal abuse investigation, one stolen vehicle investigation, six larceny investigations, one drug investigations, one terroristic threat investigation, three fire investigations, six sex offense investigations, one forgery investigation and six violations of orders of protection investigations.

New Nursing Home Rules Started Today

The State Health Department’s new regulations for nursing home staffing went into effect today.  In late 2021, the Health Department announced, that there was going to be a new rule about how patients were supposed to get an equal amount of time and attention from nurses.  State Senator George Borrello says nursing homes, are facing possible fines, or will undergo penalties like, not having as many patients allowed or admitted into their facility, or their units might be closed down.   Borrello maintains, on top of this, nursing homes are also not getting enough Medicaid money.

Governor Kathy Hochul: We Will Appeal McAllister’s Ruling

In Steuben County Surrogate Court yesterday, Judge Pat McAllister ruled that the new district maps, approved by Governor Kathy Hochul, were unconstitutional, and the judge has ordered that new maps be drawn.  Governor Kathy Hochul and Attorney General Letitia James issued the following joint statement in response to the New York Supreme Court’s rejection of the state’s current redistricting plans: quote “We intend to appeal this decision.”  Unquote - Republican Candidate For Governor Lee Zeldin stated quote: “Albany Democrats made it clear from the beginning they had no intention of allowing the constitutionally required independent commission to deliver a map that best serves New Yorkers, and a judge has recognized this…Albany must redraw the maps in good faith and put New Yorkers, not their partisan games, first.”