Palletts Of Keuka Event Moved To Wellspring Fellowship

The Hammondsport Chamber of Commerce has announced - due to the potential for rain on Saturday the Chamber has moved the Palettes of Keuka Auction to the Wellspring Fellowship, formerly the First Presbyterian Church right on the square.  Registration will still be at noon auction begins at 1PM.  Two dozen area artists will have their Palettes of Keuka Art auctioned off. 

Some Construction Going On At The VEW In Bath

It’s back to school for students Wednesday for the Bath School District.  Bath School Superintendent Kelly Houck says there is some construction going on at the V.E.W., however Houck also says, it’s all very safe and they’re very glad to welcome students back next week.

Need A Job?  They Are Hiring In Elmira 

In Elmira, they’re hiring 75 correctional officers at the Chemung County Correctional Facility.  Pay is between $56,000 a year to $89,000 a year.  

Strong Kids Safe Kids Event Is Coming Up In Bath

On September 21 at The Steuben County Fair Grounds – the Central Steuben Chamber of Commerce will be having the Strong Kids, Safe Kids – Hands on a Truck event.  This is free and open to the public.  There will be ambulances, fire trucks and tractors.  This will be from noon until 3:00pm at the county fairgrounds in Bath.

Knoxville Man Charged In The Town Of Lindley

From The Sheriff's Dept:

Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard reports the arrest of Steven M. Anderson, age 45, of Route 249, Knoxville, Pennsylvania, following a report of a vehicle running with the driver slumped over the wheel in Lindley, New York.

It is alleged Mr. Anderson operated the vehicle and possessed quantities of narcotics including alleged methamphetamine. Mr. Anderson was charged with two counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, a Class B Felony. Mr. Anderson was arraigned in the Centralized Arraignment Court and held, to appear at a later date in the Lindley Town Court.

County Route 14 To Be Opened By Tomorrow Night

Steuben County Manager Jack Wheeler says today that County Public Works Commissioner Eric Rose says, County Route 14 in Bath will be opened by Friday night. 

Prattsburgh Road Update

In Prattsburgh, we hear that all roads are open and passable, though Prattsburgh highway crews continue their work and are now focused on the Prattsburgh road’s shoulders and headwalls of pipes, and the ditches.

CERT And SWAT And Local Fire Dept's Training Sessions

Sheriff Jim Allard says, the Steuben County Sheriff's Office CERT and SWAT teams along with the Bath VA Fire Department, Savona Fire Department, and The Bath Volunteer Fire Department did Rescue Technicians joint training this month.  The training was conducted by the State Fire Instructors.  

Important Info for Parents at Dana Lyon Middle School:

From The Bath School District: 

Office Closure: The Dana Lyon Middle School Office is currently closed for renovations.

School Hours: Doors open at 7:20 AM.

Bus Riders: Students who ride the bus will be dropped off in the front circle. They should enter the school through the Haverling High School Entrance.

Parent Drop-Off: Parents dropping off students should use the back parking lot near the district office.

Walkers: Students walking to school may enter through either the back parking lot near the district office or the Haverling High School Entrance.

Homeroom Arrival: All students need to be in their homerooms by 7:35 AM.

Release Times:

4th and 5th-grade students will be released at 2:10 PM.

6th, 7th, and 8th-grade students will be released at 2:13 PM.

Midday Pick-Up: If you need to pick up your child during the day, please enter through the Haverling High School Entrance.

Steuben County Public Health: State Rules On Vaxxing

From Steuben County Public Health: 

(These Are State Rules BTW)

Children attending day care and pre-K through 12thgrade in New York State must receive all required doses of vaccines on the recommended schedule in order to attend or remain in school. This is true unless they have a valid medical exemption to immunization. This includes all public, private, and religious schools.

In order to attend or remain in school or day care, children who are unvaccinated or overdue must receive at least the first dose of all required vaccines within the first 14 days.

Freshman Orientation Is Today For Bath Central 

Officials with the Bath Central School District say, today is the day for high school freshman orientation.  That’ll be from 1pm to 2pm at the Haverling Auditorium. 

NUMEROUS ALARM TESTS SCHEDULED FOR THURS AUG 29

School officials with the Bath School District say that tomorrow, the school will be conducting a variety of alarm tests, throughout the day.  

On Thursday, August 29th, Bath CSD will be conducting a variety of alarm tests throughout the day. This is to ensure that everything is functioning properly before the school year begins.

Please be aware that:

These alarms will be frequent.

They are part of our preparations for the 2024-2025 school year.

We want to confirm that BAFRC will continue to operate during their normal hours that day.

Thank you for your understanding!

October 26 Is An Important Day - For Two Reasons 

Early voting in Steuben County starts October 26.  Also, registering to vote on election day in November, the last day to do that, is October 26.  Officials with the Dormann Library in Bath say, they have application forms for the Early Mail Ballot and the Absentee Ballot at the library.  Again, October 26 is both the first day of early voting and it’s the deadline to register for the November election.

Allard: The Focus Of The Road Crews Right Now

Even though it’s been almost three weeks since the flooding from Tropical Storm Debby, it’s going to be a while until all the road damage is completely known to road crews.  The sheriff says, the crews are focusing on places like Norton Hollow Road in Greenwood, and any roads with gaping holes in them in Steuben County.   "The emphasis after these sorts of weather events, is to get one lane open," Sheriff Jim Allard tells Wvin.  "The crews will work to get roads like Norton Hollow, shored up, so that there is at least one passable lane, for fire trucks, ambulances and other first responders through.  Not to mention, in a couple of months, we're going to be talking about snow.  So all of those issues, and for the big trucks to get thruogh on the roads, the heavy weight vehicles, to be able to access remote areas, that's going to be probably, priority number one," said Allard.

Steuben County Passes It's New Cannabis Law Monday

The new Cannabis law has been passed in Steuben County.  It was passed yesterday.  This gives the Steuben County Office of Weights and Measures the ability to shut down illegal sticker stores.  "Now that it's on the books, we can at least get started in doing some inspections," Steuben County Legislative Chair Kelly Fitzpatrick tells WVIN News.  "Perhaps we'll get some of these stores shut down.  Most of our constituents do not like the illegal stores being opened in their communities.  Did I want the law enforcement end to be more in charge of enforcing this law?  Yes I did.  But there was sufficient legislative support for it to pass as it was written - with the Office of Weights And Measures doing the regulatory inspections."   

Steuben Co Public Health Releases July Overdose Numbers

The Steuben County Public Health Department and partners are sharing updated overdose data for July 2024: 31 overdoses were reported, 0 fatalities were reported, and 5 instances of Narcan administration were cited. 1 of the fatalities under investigation from June 2024 has been confirmed to be from an overdose and 1 new fatality was reported for June 2024, bringing the confirmed fatalities for June up to 3.

In July, one of Steuben’s overdose records cited opioids as a suspected drug causing the overdose. Sixteen overdose records did not note a specific substance or were not able to be accessed for a full review, and the remaining 14 records indicated another substance was suspected to be the cause of an overdose. Other reported substances included alcohol, prescription drugs, and others.

The Institute for Human Services is now offering a new 24/7 resource to support individuals struggling with substance use called “GetHelpNY.” “GetHelpNY” offers a simple and discreet way for individuals to access support. By texting the keyword "GetHelpNY" to 898-211, users will be guided through a series of questions to help them or their loved ones find the assistance they need.

“We are pleased to add another service available for our residents who struggle with substance use” said Public Health Director, Darlene Smith. “Steuben County Public Health and its partners continue to create new ways to seek help and reduce the prevalence of substance use in the county.”

Narcan training is available at https://www.steubencountyny.gov/narcan or in-person training can be scheduled by calling Steuben Public Health at 607-664-2438 or reaching out to the Steuben Prevention Coalition’s Opioid Committee.

Local support is available. Steuben County Substance Abuse Services (SCASAS) offers outpatient services in Bath (607-664-2156), Corning (607-937-6201), and Hornell (607-324-2483) as well as after-hours services (607-937-7800). CASA Trinity in Hornell (607-282-5200) and Ira Davenport Memorial Hospital in Bath offer detox and inpatient services as well. Residents are also encouraged to call 211 for other local support.

Woodhull Won't Have A Hall Of Fame This Season

From The Woodhull Raceway: "It has been a goal of ours this season to resume the Woodhull Raceway hall of fame. Unfortunately due to unforeseen circumstances out of our control we are forced to cancel it for this season. Logistically we have a few things that we need to work out to honor the men and women that deserve the recognition from the Woodhull Raceway. We will work hard over the offseason to get things ready and make this an annual event. We apologize for any inconvenience."

Seriously Injured Alfred State Student Returns For Classes

At Alfred-State College, Derreck Correa, the Bradford Pennsylvania student who was the victim of a gang assault in October of last year, has returned to take classes this fall at Alfred State.  Correa suffered traumatic brain injuries last year, and is said to have made an amazing recovery.  

Town And Village Of Bath - Are Getting State $$$ For Water

Governor Kathy Hochul says that the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation Board of Directors approved the Town of Bath getting grants for $2.5 million dollars, $.1.2 million dollars for water projects.  The town of Bath is also getting $3.7 million dollars in financing for the construction of the Lake Salubria sewer extension project.  The state environmental facilities board also approved $30 million dollars in funding for drinking water for about two dozen municipalities, including the Villages of Bath and Penn Yan, and that’s for lead service line inventory projects.    

Steuben County Will Likely Be Able To Apply For FEMA $$$

Steuben County is working to do an emergency capital project, for storm damage repairs (to county bridges and roads) because of Tropical Storm Debby.  The capital project  is going to be called the Disaster Response/Flood Response August 2024.  The county is working to move a million dollars from the unrestricted general fund, into a fund for this capital project.  Also, Steuben County Manager Jack Wheeler said this morning that it appears that Steuben County has enough monetary damage (for county roads and bridges) because of August 9 flooding, to get FEMA funding.  "It looks like we'll reach the damage threshold," Wheeler said this morning.  "For those who are not familiar, the state has to reach $37.5 million dollars in total damage and Steuben County (and St. Lawrence County) has to reach $25 million dollars in damages to public infrastructure.  We think that between roads and bridges and Jasper-Troupsburg Central School damages, that we are going to get there," said Wheeler.  

United Way Of The Southern Tier Is Collecting Items For Young School Students Who Are Returning To Classes

The United Way is looking for toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo and similar items.  Items can be dropped off to the United Way at 88 E. Tioga Avenue in Corning or arrange for a pick-up by calling 607-377-5834.  Officials say they will distribute the items to local schools and youth centers where there is a need.

Some Veterans Events This Week Here In The Area

There are a couple of veterans events this week - there is a veterans’s bowling get together, in Penn Yan at Brocks Bowl at 530pm on Tuesday.  There is alsos a golf and lunch for veterans this Thursday at 900am at the Bath Golf Club.

The Smoke On The Water 2024 Weekend, Has Arrived 

Campbell-Savona State Comptroller Audit Results

State Comptroller Tom Dinapoli says, Campbell Savona Central won’t be getting $29,939 dollars in state aid, reportedly because the school did not file certain claims on time.  The comptroller also says, that Campbell-Savona School District officials agreed with the state comptroller’s recommendations and they say that the school will take corrective action.   

Public Hearing On Monday In Bath About Cannabis

There’s a public hearing coming up 10am Monday, at the county annex building at 20 East Morris Street in Bath.  This will be about the new Steuben County cannabis law.  "Anyone who wishes to speak on that matter, will be given time to voice their views," said Steuben County Legislative Chair Kelly Fitzpatrick (R, Bath) this morning.   "The new law will assist us in shutting down these stores that are selling marijuana and marijuana products illegally."  

Steuben Prevention Coaltion To Hold A Town Hall

Sheriff Jim Allard will be one of the speakers, at the Steuben Prevention Coalition’s Community Town Hall.  That will be on September 14th at 9:00am at the Spotlight Theater on Main Street in Hornell.  

Former Neighboring County Sheriff Has Passed Away

Former Chemung County Sheriff Patrick Patterson has died.  Patrick Patterson was sheriff of Chemung County from 1983 to 1984.  In 1984, he was hired by the FBI as an agent.  Patterson was with the FBI until he retired in 2005.

Village Of Bath Wins Restore New York Grant Money 

Bath Village Mayor Michael Sweet tells WVIN that the Village of Bath won $2,000,000, in the Restore New York money.  "We're going to turn the old Dana Lyons School, into apartments that are for the working class," Sweet said this morning.  "There will be an income threshold to qualify.  So you can be retired and have an income, you can be working and have an income.  There will be about 40 apartment units, primarily all single studio apartments, and a few doubles.  Also, the old side of the Dana Lyons building, the original side of the school, will be renovated and turned into a community center," Sweet said. 

Debby Afterman Issues To Be Discussed By Steuben Co

The Steuben County Legislature is having three special committee meetings on Monday, August 26.  That’ll be special meetings of the Human Services, Health Education Committee, the Agriculture, Industry and Planning Committee and the Public Works Committee.  Local issues that are a result of flooding from Tropical Storm Debby will be discussed.  Among them, how much the county will charge in tipping fees for flood debris being brought in to the county landfill.

Local Fire Depts Holds Group Training At The Bath VA 
Officials with the Hammondsport Fire Department report that they did group training recently, at the Bath VA, with fire departments from the Bath VA, Bath, Avoca and Kanona.

Update On The United Way's Efforts To Help Debby Victims

In Corning, United Way of the Southern Tier President Steve Hughes is working to help the Steuben County victims of Hurricane Debby property damage.  "A lot of our concentrated effort is to try to be responsive to the devastation in the western part of the corridor," Hughes tells WVIN News this morning.  So what towns is the United Way focused on locally?  "Communities such as Woodhull, Jasper, Troupsburg, Addison, Canisteo and even in some areas of, and around, Bath."   Steve Hughes also says, it's so important for those with property damage issues to call the 2-1-1 helpline.  "That's one of our key partners in this work, to begin the intake process so we can get folks help."  The United Way is currently taking both monetary donations as well as clothing and hygeine items.  Their address is:    United Way of the Southern Tier, P.O. Box 284, Elmira, NY 14902. Make checks payable to “UWST Steuben County FRF.”

Or click on this link. 

Crews Continue To Work To Repair Roads In Steuben Co

From Sheriff Jim Allard: "The Department of Transportation and Steuben County Public Works, and other public works crews, have been really working above and beyond, sometimes around the clock, to get the roadways open, to get bridges passable, and to make it so folks can access their properties and their homes.  The crews have really been doing a herculean effort." 

Schumer And Gillibrand: Coopers Plains Fire, To Get $$$

Democrat US Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand have annnounced that the Coopers Plains Fire Department is getting a grant of $56,000.  The senators say this is part of the federal Fire Grants and Safety Act, which Schumer and Gillibrand say have benefited every corner of upstate New York.   "The AFG and SAFER grant programs are both administered by the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide competitive funding directly to fire departments and volunteer firefighter interest organizations to purchase essential equipment and help them increase the number of trained, 'front line' firefighters available in their communities," it said, in a joint statement from the two senators.  

Fraud And Scam Prevention Seminar To Be Held In Bath

Coming up at the Dormann Library in Bath, a Scam and Fraud Prevention Seminar.  That will be on August 27 at 5:30 pm, and the talk will be presented by Sheila Brewer-Montero of Lifespan of Greater Rochester.  Lifespan’s talk will be about scams that are being used against older adults and how to protect yourself from becoming a victim.

Music In The Park Is Happening Tonight In Bath

There is a music in the park event starting at 6:00pm here at Pulteney Park in Bath, Doc Possum will be playing. 

Official say that this is a make up concert from July 10.

Steuben County Roads Update

Steuben County Legislative Chairperson Kelly Fitzpatrick says the only county road which is still closed is County Route 31.  Fitzpatrick noted that she’s only talking about county roads, not all the other roads, like State Route 36.  Also, Kelly Fitzpatrick says she’s gotten some complaints about flooding damage in Bath from those who live on County Route 11. 

Bath Man Charged After Alleged Domestic Incident 

Bath Village Police report that 37 year old Quincy Tisdale of Bath is charged with 3^rd degree assault, endangering the welfare of a child and aggravated criminal contempt.  Bath Police say Tisdale is accused of repeatedly slamming a door on a victim’s arm, causing injury.   

Whose Who Of Local Democrats, At The DNC In Chicago  

Steuben County Democrat Chair Shawn Hogan and Corning Democrats Hilda Lando and Marge Lawler, are at the Democrats Convention in Chicago this week. 

Woodhull Food Pantry Is Taking Donations 

This reminder: the Woodhull Food Pantry is accepting clothing and food and hygiene item donations.  The Woodhull Food Pantry is at the Old Methodist Church on the corner of Jasper and Main Streets, in Woodhull. 

There Is A Veterans Event In Bath At The End Of The Week

The Veterans One Stop Center is encouraging veterans to come to the Veterans Pizza Social at Ricos Pizza on West Morris Street in Bath, that’s this Friday, August 23 at 5:00.

Two Men Charged For ATM Thefts In Steuben, Yates, Allegany And Schuyler Counties 

From The Sheriff:  Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard reports the arrest of Dale M. Sutton and James R. Lisefski on multiple charges resulting from an eight-month investigation spanning four counties and five law enforcement agencies stemming from multiple reported commercial burglaries in Steuben, Allegany, Schuyler and Yates Counties.

The Steuben County Sheriff's Office, Schuyler County Sheriff's Office, Yates County Sheriff's Office, Penn Yan Police Department and the New York State Police worked cooperatively and cohesively to share investigative information and gain evidence which conclusively linked multiple alleged commercial burglaries, alleged stolen vehicles, arson, larcenies, tampering with evidence, damage to property and narcotics sales to Mr. Sutton and Mr. Lisefski. Hundreds of hours of collaborative investigation techniques and the cooperative efforts of the Steuben, Schuyler and Yates County District Attorney Offices resulted in a Grand Jury presentation which led to the indictment of Mr. Sutton and Mr. Lisefski on 38 individual charges.

Dale M. Sutton, age 50, of Colonial Circle, Campbell, New York and James R. Lisefski, age 44, of Snyder Road, Prattsburgh, New York are charged with:

Enterprise Corruption, a Class B Felony, Seven Counts of Burglary in the Third Degree, Class D Felonies, Ten Counts of Criminal Mischief, both Felony and Misdemeanor level, Ten Counts of Grand Larceny, Class E and Class D Felonies, Three Counts of Petit Larceny, Three Counts of Tampering with Physical Evidence, Class E Felonies, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, a Class B Felony and Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, a Class B Felony.

Mr. Sutton was arraigned in Steuben County Court and remanded to the Steuben County Jail in lieu of $20,000 cash bail. Mr. Lisefski was committed to the Steuben County Jail due to an active NYS Parole Violation Warrant and is held without bail.

Addison Man Charged After Allegedly Driving Stolen Vehicle

From The Sheriff:  Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard reports the arrest of Jeffrey W. Brown, age 56, of County Route 1, Addison, New York, following a vehicle stop of a reported stolen vehicle from Addison.

It is alleged Mr. Brown possessed and operated a reportedly stolen vehicle on Jackson Hill Road, Cameron, New York.

Mr. Brown was charged with Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the Third Degree, a Class D Felony. Mr. Brown was arraigned in the Centralized Arraignment Court and released.

Sheriff Allard thanks the Addison Village Police Department for their assistance in this case.

Another Financial Assistance Event Here In Steuben Co

Coming up here in Bath today, there will be another flood damage info event for people who are hoping to get state aid, after having storm damage from Tropical Storm Debby.  That’s from 1pm-5pm at the Steuben County Civil Defense Center on Route 54 in Bath.  Officials say, bringing proof of residency and income, are suggested.

The Steuben County Community Board, What Is It? 

Tuesday at 3pm, there will be a meeting at the Steuben County Office Building, of the Community Board.  Steuben County Legislative Chair Kelly Fitzpatrick explained this morning, what the community board is.   "It's a group of mental health professionals from various agencies, it also includes a community member and school district official," Fitzpatrick said.  "What they do is get together and discuss the current status of our mental health services and they review ways to make our mental health services better, and how to make our communities a better place for all of us," Fitzpatrick stated.  

Is There More Covid These Days Here In Steuben County? 

On the topic of the Covid, Steuben County Public Health Director Darlene Smith says that hospitalizations have not increased locally because of covid, "However , there is a higher positivity rate of the covid here in Steuben County," Smith said today.  Darlene Smith also says that’s pretty much also the case, across the state.

United Way Donation Drive In Corning

The United Way of the Southern Tier is collecting donations through September 13, for kids who need toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, soap and similar items.   Donations may be delivered to United Way in Corning, that’s at 88 East Tioga Avenue in Corning during business hours.  

Debby Damage, And Update On Getting $$$ Assistance 
Republican State Senator Tom O’Mara says he worked to persuade Democrat Governor Kathy Hochul to drop the idea of the state refusing flood damage financial help to those who make over $57,000 a year.  There had originally been a rule about those who make $58,000 or more not being able to get state aid.  O’Mara says, he and others convinced the governor to make it so those who make $158,000 a year, cannot get flood money from the state.  Also, Democrat Governor Kathy Hochul and Republican Congressman Nick Langworthy report that they are both working to speed things up to get financial assistance more quickly, to the Steuben County flood victims who had property damage on August 9^th from Tropical Storm Debby.  And Langworthy says, he’s gotten federal assistance money for farmers and others who suffered damage in mid-July, from Hurricane Beryl. 
 

Avoca Fire Dept: A New Tanker Is Almost Ready

The Avoca Hose Company says, their new tanker, PT-6, is just about ready to be in service.  Avoca fire fighters say they did some training with the new tanker Sunday morning at Sonny’s Pond.   

Updated road closures from Tropical Storm Debby

Local and State highway crews have made substantial progress in repairing and clearing flooded roadways from last weeks storm.  The following roads in Steuben County remain closed to traffic at this time:

• State Route 36 – From Canisteo (Willow Bend) South to Gravel Run (Canisteo)
• State Route 417 - At County Route 126 (Greenwood)

• County Route 14 – From Puffer to County Route 119 (Canisteo)
• County Route 119 –County Route 128 to State Route 36 at the Carson Bridge (Canisteo)
• County Route 31 – From State Route 36 (northern intersection) to County Route 63 (Canisteo)
• County Route 126 – From State Route 417 to Reiman Road (Greenwood)

Town Roads

• Bush Hill Rd (Canisteo)
• Red Spring Run Rd (Canisteo)
• Rock Run (Canisteo)
• Hanyon Road (Canisteo)
• Hathaway Hill Road (Canisteo)
• McChesney Road (Canisteo)
• Roosa Road (Canisteo)
• E Union Rd from CR 11 to Bonny Hill Rd (Bath)
• King Hill Rd (Greenwood)
• Norton Hollow (Greenwood)
• Banks Hollow (Greenwood)

Many town roads in the affected area have significant damage and it is recommended that if you must travel in these areas to use extreme caution.  Motorists should avoid unnecessary travel in this area to allow emergency responders, public works, and cleanup crews to continue their work to repair roads and provide support to local residents

Sheriff: An Overnight Missing Person Case In Urbana

Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard reports that at about 9:10am on August 09, 2024, Deputies and Investigators of the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office responded to the area of Taggart Road in the Town of Urbana, New York, due to a report of a missing person. It was reported that a 54-year-old man had left home the previous evening at about 4pm and not returned and was not answering his phone. Deputies located the man’s vehicle near Taggart Road, and found the man at about 9:48am, injured and unable to walk, having spent the night outside in the rain near a ravine. The Hammondsport Fire Department responded with a UTV and transported the patient to the roadway where he was transported by ambulance to a medical treatment facility. The man was alert and conscious during the transport.  Sheriff Allard thanks the Hammondsport Fire Department for their assistance in this investigation and recovery.

Troopers Report Road Rage Incident In Big Flats Yesterday

FROM NYSP:  On August 12, 2024, at approximately 12:30 p.m., the New York State Police in Horseheads responded to a complaint of a gunshot fired during a road rage incident on I-86 eastbound in the town of Big Flats near the Elmira Corning Regional Airport.

Investigation of the incident revealed a subject operating a blue Dodge Dakota pickup truck with a Colorado registration had fired a handgun at another motorist operating a blue Toyota Rav4 with a New York registration during a driving altercation.  The victim was interviewed, and a bullet hole was located on the passenger's side rear door of the Rav4. 

Subsequent to a search of the area, the suspect was located and identified as 40-year-old Jacob R. Heckman of Denver, Colorado.  A further search of the area where he was located resulted in a .380 caliber Ruger handgun, which was illegally possessed in New York State, being found.  Heckman was charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon 2nd (C Felony) and Reckless Endangerment 1st (D Felony). He was arraigned in the Town of Big Flats Court and committed to the Chemung County Jail on a $50,000 cash or $200,000 bond pending further court proceedings.  The New York State Police were assisted on the scene by the Chemung County Sheriff's Office and Horseheads Police Department.  This is an ongoing investigation. Any person who possibly witnessed any of this incident is asked to contact the New York State Police in Horseheads at 607-739-8797.

It's The Second Day Of The Steuben County Fair In Bath

Today is Day Two of the Steuben County Fair!  Today at the fair, dog shows, poultry shows, dairy goats shows, swine and sheep shows, and dairy cattle judging. 

Then tonight at the Grandstand at 6:00pm, the Patriot Lawnmower Pull and at 7:00pm, The Lawnmower Demolition Derby.

Local, County, State, National Officials, See Debby Damage

On Sunday morning, Sheriff Allard escorted Congressman Langworthy, State Senator O'Mara and local Steuben County officials on a tour of the communities that were hit so hard by the remnants of Debby including the Towns of Canisteo, Woodhull, and Greenwood, the Jasper-Troupsburg High School, and the Jasper sewage plant.  Afterwards, Governor Kathy Hochul spoke in front of a residence at the corner of Route 36 and Bush Hill Road.  After the governor spoke, Steuben County Legislative Chair Kelly Fitzpatrick addressed those present.  

Steuben Co Lawmaker Fred Potter, Steuben Co Legislative Chair Kelly Fitzpatrick, Governor Kathy Hochul, State Senator Tom O'Mara

Senator O'Mara and Congressman Langworthy Speak With Woodhull Business Leaders/Residents 

Steuben County Route 129 In Woodhull 
 

The Inside Of Jasper-Troupsburg Central School 

2-1-1 Is The Number To Report Property Damage From Debby, However, If 2-1-1 Is Busy, Here Is Another Number

Steuben County Emergency Services Director Tim Marshall says if you have tried calling 2-1-1 to report property damage, but could not get through on 2-1-1, to call this number: 1-800-346-2211.  Officials stress that if damage is reported, there is a much greater chance of getting government assistance for repairs. 

States Of Emergency Still On In Woodhull And Other Towns
States of Emergency and Travel Advisory remain in place for the Towns of Canisteo, Jasper, Greenwood, Troupsburg, Woodhull, and Cameron.  Residents should avoid unnecessary travel to allow highway crews to continue cleanup efforts.

The following roads remain closed as of press time:

State Roads

•        State Route 417 from SR 36 to SR 248 (Jasper to Greenwood)

•        State Route 36 – From Canisteo (CR119) South to Gravel Run (Town of Canisteo)

County Roads

•        County Route 119 from CR 128 to SR 36 (Canisteo)

•        County Route 14 from CR 119 to Puffer Rd (Canisteo/Howard)

•        County Route 31 from CR 63 to SR 36 (north intersection) (Jasper/Canisteo)

•        County Route 84 from Hillard Rd to Tombs Rd (Troupsburg)

•        County Route 28 from CR 64 to SR 248/Greenwood St (Hartsville/Canisteo)

Town Roads

•        Bush Hill Rd (Canisteo)

•        Red Spring Run Rd (Canisteo)

•        Drake Hill Rd from SR 36 to Dennis Rd (Jasper)

•        Harder Rd (Woodhull)

•        Hardscrabble Rd from CR 81 to Derby Hill Rd (Rathbone)

•        Merring Rd from CR 21 to Williams Rd (Rathbone)

•        Hungry Hollow Rd from CR 13 to Two Rod Rd/Dinehart Rd (Wheeler/Urbana)

•        E Union Rd from CR 11 to Bonny Hill Rd (Bath)

•        Windfall Rd from Unionville Rd to Coss Corners Rd (Bath)

•        King Hill Rd (Greenwood)

•        Norton Hollow (Greenwood)

•        Banks Hollow (Greenwood)

Help is on the way!

Steuben County has been working with local, state and federal agencies to provide support to the affected areas.  Volunteers from The Southern Baptists Disaster Relief, the United Methodist Committee on Relief, The Mennonite Disaster Services, and the American Red Cross will team up to provide support to residents affected by this devastating storm.  These specialized disaster trained teams will assist residents with mucking out the mud and cleaning up homes. 

Individuals with damages needing assistance should call 211 Helpline by dialing 2-1-1 or 1 (800) 346-2211 and providing their address, contact information and type of damages.  Individuals will be connected with the appropriate community service organization that can assess with their needs.

Upcoming Public Hearing About The New Cannabis Law 

There will be a public hearing about the county’s new cannabis law.  That will be on Monday August 26, at 10am at the County Annex Building, 20 East Morris Street in Bath.     

Day One Of The Steuben County Fair Has Arrived

It’s the opening day of the Steuben County Fair here in Bath.  Today at the fair: Harness Racing and Livestock Exhibitors will meet. 

Bath School District Was Not Damaged By Debby Friday

From Bath School Superintendent Kelly Houck:  "Fortunately for Bath Central School District, no damage to report from the storm. Our facilities team did a great job preparing." 

Evacuation Order of Jasper and Woodhull Lifted

From Steuben County:  The evacuation order for the hamlets of Jasper and Woodhull has been lifted and residents can now return to their homes. 

A travel advisory still remains in place the Towns of Canisteo, Jasper, Greenwood, Woodhull, and Cameron, and residents should avoid unnecessary travel to allow crews to continue cleanup efforts.

The following roads remain closed at this time:

• County Route 14 – From Cochrane Road to Turnpike Road (Town of Bath) and from County Route 69 to County Route 119 (Towns of Howard, Canisteo)
• County Route 119 – From County Route 10 to County Route 27 (Towns of Cameron, Canisteo) and from County Route 128 to State Route 36 (Town of Canisteo)
• County Route 31 – From State Route 36 (northern intersection) to County Route 63 (Towns of Canisteo, Jasper)
• County Route 71 – All (Town of Jasper)
• County Route 28 – From State Route 248 to County Route 64 (Towns of Canisteo, Hartsville)
• County Route 84 – From Hillard Road to Tombs Road (Town of Troupsburg)
• County Route 129 – County Route 82 to Washington Street (Town of Woodhull)
• County Route 21 – From County Route 102 to Hubbard Road (Towns of Rathbone, Woodhull)
• County Route 126 – From State Route 417 to Reiman Road (Town of Greenwood)
• State Route 248 – From Slate Creek Rd to Fall Creek Rd (Town of Canisteo)
• State Route 36 – From Canisteo (Willow Bend) South to Gravel Run (Town of Canisteo)

Parts Of Bath Damaged From Debby On Friday

THE TOWN OF BATH: There was flooding on Friday near Exit 39 in the Town of Bath.  Jellystone Campsite was hit hard.  Also, several homes near Exit 39 had water in them.

THE VILLAGE OF BATH: "Things in the Village of Bath are fine," said Mayor Mike Sweet.  "We have sent crews and equipment out to the Town, to assist them," Sweet tells WVIN. 

Tropical Storm Debby Press Release

FROM STEUBEN COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICES: 

08/10/2024 10:30 a.m.

Updated road closures from Tropical Storm Debby

The following roads in Steuben County remain closed to traffic at this time:

County Route 14 – From Cochrane Road to Turnpike Road and from County Route 69 to County Route 119

County Route 119 – From County Route 10 to County Route 27 and from County Route 128 to State Route 36

County Route 31 – From State Route 36 (northern intersection) to County Route 63

County Route 71 – All

County Route 28 – From State Route 248 to County Route 64

County Route 84 – From Hillard Road to Tombs Road

County Route 129 – County Route 82 to Washington Street

County Route 21 – From County Route 102 to Hubbard Road

County Route 126 – From State Route 417 to Reiman Road

State Route 248 – From Slate Creek Rd to Fall Creek Rd

State Route 36 – From Canisteo (Willow Bend) South to Gravel Run

State Route 417 - At Bordens Bridge

A travel advisory remains in place for the Towns of Canisteo, Jasper, Greenwood, Woodhull, and Cameron, and residents must avoid unnecessary travel in these Towns. Emergency responders, public works, and cleanup crews are actively working in these areas.

Bath Fire Dept Makes Two Rescues Friday

From The Bath Volunteer Fire Dept:

With the disastrous flooding yesterday in Steuben County from Tropical Storm Debby emergency crews from all around the area were very busy. Bath was obviously no different. The Swift Water Rescue Team from the Bath Volunteer Fire Department were deployed to the southern Steuben County area to help where it would be most needed.

The team made two successful rescues today. One was in the town of Jasper near State Rt. 36 and County Rt. 21 for a single person was trapped in their house and was taken to safety. The second was in the Canisteo area on County Rt. 119 near the County Route 14 intersection. Three people were on top of their submerged pickup truck but managed to get to the bank along County Rt. 119 where the Bath Swift water Rescue Team were able to pick them up and take them to safety as well.

The Bath Swift Water Rescue Team are all professionally trained by the State and other professional instructors to read the water and to handle themselves both in a boat and without a boat, which is extremely dangerous.
Untrained persons should never attempt to navigate fast moving water in these conditions. Just a couple feet of fast-moving water can move a vehicle. Remember to “Turn around, Don’t drown!”

(Photos from John Conrad, Bath Fire Dept)

Suffer Storm Damage Yesterday?  Call 2-1-1 

From Steuben County Emergency Services:

Steuben County encourages residents with damages in need of assistance to reach out to the 211 Helpline by dialing 2-1-1 and providing their address, contact information and type of damages. Individuals will be connected with the appropriate community service organization that can assess with their needs.  Residents are urged to stay informed by listening to local news broadcasts and following Steuben County Emergency Services on social media for regular updates

Several Towns/Villages Evacuated Friday 

Canisteo, Addison and Campbell residents were ordered to evacuate on Friday afternoon.  The Red Cross has set up shelters at both Hornell High School and the Corning Painted Post Field House.  The evacuation orders for Addison, Campbell and Canisteo, were called off on Friday evening.

Flash Flood Watch Is In Effect Until 2am Saturday 

929 AM EDT Fri Aug 9 2024

The National Weather Service in Binghamton has issued a * Flash Flood Warning for...

Western Chemung County in central New York...

Western Schuyler County in central New York...

Steuben County in central New York...

Yates County in central New York...

* Until 330 PM EDT Friday.

* At 929 AM EDT, Doppler radar indicated heavy rain across the warned area. Up to 1 inch of rain has already fallen. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly.   HAZARD...Flash flooding caused by heavy rain.   SOURCE...Radar.

IMPACT...Flash flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as other poor drainage and low-lying areas.

* Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...Elmira, Corning, Hornell, Penn Yan, Watkins Glen, Dundee, Montour Falls, West Elmira, Southport, Big Flats, Horseheads, Bath, Elmira

Heights, Starkey, Campbell, Benton, Urbana, Canisteo, Caton and Lindley.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.

In hilly terrain there are hundreds of low water crossings which are potentially dangerous in heavy rain. Do not attempt to cross flooded roads. Find an alternate route.  Please report observed flooding to local emergency services or law enforcement and request they pass this information to the National

Weather Service when you can do so safely.

Bath Police Are Part Of The NYS STOP DWI Campaign 

The Bath Police Department is taking part in the statewide Stop DWI Summer high visibility campaign.  This law enforcement campaign began yesterday and this will end this Sunday, August 11. 

Veterans Salute To Take Place During The County Fair

The Steuben County Fair starts on Monday August 12.  And on Tuesday afternoon starting at 2pm, the Daughters of the American Revolution will be having a veterans salute.  "We will have on Tuesday afternoon, the Daughters of the American Revolution will have a salute to our veterans from 2:00-4:00,' Steuben County Fair Manager Nick Pelham tells WVIN News.  "That will be in front of the Grandstand at the Steuben County Fair.  So we encourage everybody to come down and participate in the salute to our veterans," said Pelham.  

Graduating On A Great Note At Haverling 

Students from the Haverling Class of 2024 announced today that in their last official role as seniors, they made out two checks: one to the SPCA, one to Camp Good Days and Special Times. 

Now Debby Remnants Seem To Be Heading Towards Steuben County, And There Is A Flood Watch Friday

Meteorologist Rob Carolan now says the remnants of Debby are likely going to be moving towards Steuben County.   "It looks like the models continue to track what's going to be left of Debby further and further west," Rob Carolan said this morning.  "Originally it looked like it was going to cut up across the Hudson River Valley and go through Vermont.  Now it looks like it may go through Eastern New York State.  Also, it keeps throwing the moisture back our way so it looks like Steuben County could see several inches of rainfall on Friday and into Friday night.  That's why the National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch, from Friday morning, through late Friday night," Carolan said.   

Ursula Stone Is Sentenced To Three To Nine Years

Steuben County District Attorney Brooks Baker says former Addison Clerk  Treasurer Ursula Stone, who was accused of stealing over a million dollars from Addison Village Hall, was sentenced to an indeterminate three to nine years by Judge Watches yesterday in County Court . 

DA Brooks Baker also says, there will be a hearing in six weeks about restitution. 

Local Red Knights Chapter, Raises $2K For Camp Courage

This year, the Red Knights Chapter 42 organization in Bath, brought in $2,000 for the Finger Lakes Regional Burn Association’s annual summer camp, Camp Courage.   "Each year we meet up with the Red Knights NY30 Chapter of Geneva, and all ride into their camp on our motorcycles, escorted in by the East Campbell Fire Department with lights and siren," said Bath Fire Dept spokesman John Conrad.  "The look on the children’s faces with their huge smiles as we ride by the waiting campers touches all our hearts. We make a full circle around the camp and come back and park. All the children (and a few camp counselors) surround the bikes and pick out which one they want to ride first. We give them rides on our bikes through the camp and they just can’t get enough. When we get back to where we started, they pick another one and go again. It makes us smile as much as the children. After everyone gets at least one ride then we break to go have lunch with them. Like all children, some will talk your ear off while others are quite reserved. We could never understand their trauma, but at least for a few hours they get to forget about it and just be kids."

LP Building Solutions Wins An Award For Safety

LP Building Solutions announced yesterday that they have won the 2023 Safest Company Award from The Engineered Wood Association.   "This is the 12th time we’ve won this award in the program’s 16-year history, including consecutive wins in 2022 and 2023," said LP Building Solutions Spokesperson Jen Bowman.  "The award goes to the North American engineered wood products company with the best average weighted incident rate (WIR) at its mills. In 2023, the industry WIR average was 8.74 while LP’s companywide WIR was an industry-leading 2.56.   We are proud that our 4,000 team members' dedication to safety is being recognized,." said Bowman.  

Charters Of Freedom Update From Bath Mayor Sweet

The first phase of the work on the Charters of Freedom project in Bath will likely be done within the next two or three days.  That’s according to Bath Village Mayor Michael Sweet.   "It's a two phase project," Sweet tells WVIN News.  "Phase 1 is the installation of the display cases, and I'm guessing that part of the project should be completed by the end of this week.  The second phase of the Charters Of Freedom project is what the Bath Street Team will do, in cooperation with Steuben County, is to do the walkways and do landscaping, and relocate a flagpole behind the displays," Sweet said.  

Community Workshop To Be Held Monday Night In Bath

There is going to be a community workshop about the $4.5 million dollar New York Forward grant which some Bath residents and others in Bath are applying to get.  Officials are looking for input and ideas for the Village of Bath.  That will be at the Bath Volunteer Fire Department at 50 East Morris Street at 6pm on Monday night. 

The Bath School District's 2024-2025 School Safety Plan 

The Bath School Board is having a public hearing on Wednesday, August 14 at 6:00pm in the high school library.  That’ll be about the school district‘s safety plan.

Photos Of The Construction Progress At Pulteney Park 

Below are two pictures of the work being done to construct  the Charters Of Freedom, at Pulteney Park in Bath. 

Steuben County Sheriff's Office Crime Numbers, July 2024

From Sheriff Jim Allard:    July was another busy and challenging month in the Sheriff’s Office. Our investigators and deputies were tasked with one criminal impersonation investigation, two death investigations, one possession of a weapon investigation, three burglary investigations, one menacing investigation, four criminal contempt investigations, one possession of stolen property investigation, one unauthorized use of a vehicle investigation, one tampering with evidence investigation, one tampering with a witness investigation, three fire investigations, ten larceny investigations, eight grand larceny investigations, thirteen harassment investigations, one sex abuse investigation, one criminal mischief investigation, three narcotics investigations, one welfare fraud investigation, two trespass investigations and two misuse of foodstamps investigations. Our Patrol Division was tasked with multiple domestic incident investigations along with mental health detainments, emergency medical aid, assisting other agencies, serving of warrants, and five intoxicated or impaired driving arrests.

Steuben County Overdose Report For June 2024

The Steuben County Public Health Department and partners are sharing updated overdose data for June 2024: 37 overdoses were reported, 1 fatality was reported, 3 fatalities are under investigation for potential overdose deaths, and 22 instances of Narcan administration were cited.

“The percentage of Narcan administration for overdoses has risen in 2024 compared to previous years” said Public Health Director, Darlene Smith. “Steuben County and its partners are committed to providing free, accessible Narcan training in order to empower residents to prevent overdoses.”

In June, six of Steuben’s overdose records cited opioids as a suspected drug causing the overdose. Twenty-three overdose records did not note a specific substance or were not able to be accessed for a full review, and the remaining 8 records indicated another substance was suspected to be the cause of an overdose. Other reported substances included alcohol, prescription drugs, and others.

Narcan training is available at https://www.steubencountyny.gov/narcan or in-person training can be scheduled by calling Steuben Public Health at 607-664-2438 or reaching out to the Steuben Prevention Coalition https://www.steubenpreventioncoalition.org

Assemblyman Phil Palmesano: Grants Nurses Can Apply For 

Corning Republican Assemblyman Phil Palmesano sends out, on a regular basis, emails, he calls “grant action updates”.  The purpose of these emails is to make local mayors, town supervisors, schools and local residents too, about money available through New York State grants.  One of the grants Palmesano is talking up this week, is a grant from the state health department.  Palmesano says the funds are available to help recruit and retain RNs and Licensed Practical Nurses and encourage them to serve in areas which don’t have enough nurses.  Palmesano also says these grants are available to both nurses, and health care facilities.  The deadline to apply is August 22. 

See below.

NYS Dept. of Health (DOH), Nurses Across New York Loan Repayment Funding

These funds are available to help recruit and retain registered nurses and licensed practical nurses and encourage them to serve in medically underserved areas of the state. Funding is provided in exchange for a nurse’s commitment to work in an underserved area for a three-year period.

? Eligible Applicants: Nurses and health care facilities and organizations must meet the criteria set forth to be eligible to apply for the Nurses Across New York funding (see additional information in the links below).

? Deadline: August 22, 2024, 3:59 p.m.

? Total Funding Available: $3 million

? Contact: Erin Fay

? Contact Email: erin.fay@health.ny.gov

? Link to Additional Information: https://health.ny.gov/funding/soi/20526/

Tour De Keuka 2024 - A Huge Success 

The United Way says Tour De Keuka 2024, brought in over $100,000. According to the United Way, the money will go to children, senior citizens and people in need in Steuben and Chemung Counties. 

$5,000,000 From Federal Emergency Management Agency Will Go Into Repairs For Steuben County Towns Damaged By The July 15 And July 16 Flooding 

Steuben County Manager Jack Wheeler tells WVIN News  that Steuben County is expecting to get a total of about $5,000,000 dollars from FEMA because of the mid-July flooding, for those areas which suffered the most damage.  "Woodhull, Tuscarora, Addison, Rathbone, Greenwood - that portion of Steuben County was the most severely hit," Wheeler said.  "We've alread received some funds and we anticipate more.  They are projects to restore roads or bridges that have been damaged, FEMA has approved funding for those, and we have the guaruntee from FEMA that we will receive those funds," Wheeler said.  
 

New County Medical Crews Are Based In Bath, Woodhull

The new Steuben County paramedic Advanced Life Support program, which takes care of patients with medical emergencies between Bath and Canisteo, is usually based out of Bath, but that can change throughout the day, depending on where the emergency is at that moment.  Also, the basic life support EMT program is based out of Woodhull.    The EMT and Paramedic programs are one month old and have helped out over 130 people in Steuben County so far. 

Did You Know About This Tax Credit For Families? 

CBS News reports that in New York State, Governor Kathy Hochul is sending out checks for $330 dollars, per child, to families who qualify for the Empire State Child Tax Credit.  CBS says that’s for married couples making $110,000 or less, single parents making $75,000 or less, and married couples filing separately who make $55,000 or less.

Road Work In Campbell Is Going On And Lasts Till Aug 13

The New York State Department of Transportation says the road work on Route 415 in Campbell will last up until Tuesday August 13. 

Co Legislator Pelham: Thanks To Eric Rose & The Crews For Keeping Savona Roads Safe During July Rain Storms 

Steuben County Lawmaker Nick Pelham says – a big thanks is going out to Steuben County Public Works Commissioner Eric Rose and the county crews, for the work they did in Savona during the heavy rains on July 15 and 16.  "Just wanted to thank Eric and the highway crews," Pelham said this morning at the Steuben County Public Works Commissioner.  "Two weeks ago, we had a Biblical rain storm on County Route 11 in the Savona area.  The crews responded so quickly to it, and everybody in the neighborhood was impressed with the courtesy that the highway workers gave to everybody and at how quickly the crews got everything cleaned up and opened back up," Pelham explained.  

In 2025 - Boater Safety Classes Will Not Be Optional 

A new law goes into effect in 2025 which will require all boaters to take boater safety classes.  "On January 1 (2025) the law changes," Allard said on WVIN's Community Focus.  "Anyone that operates a motorized vessel on a navigable waterway will have to get a boater safety certificate.   All of the Steuben County boater safety classes are free and we are holding at least one class per month until next June, to get  as many folks certified as we can," Allard told WVIN's Dave Taylor Smith.  

Steuben County Is Starting A New Survey Today

Steuben County Public Health Director Darlene Smith says that today, county public health is starting up an online survey about health care in Steuben County and seven other counties in the region.     

From Steuben County Public Health:  

Eight Public Health departments in the Finger Lakes Region have collaborated to create a survey hoping to understand what it’s like to find medical, dental, vision, hearing, mental health, and addictions care in rural communities. The survey will be released publicly on 8/5/2024. Per Public Health Director Darlene Smith, “We want to understand how where people live, their financial challenges, cultural background, age, gender, and previous experiences affect their choices about healthcare.”

County Attorney Is Stepping Down 

Steuben County Attorney Jennifer Prossick has submitted her resignation.  No other details available at this time.

Sheriff Jim Allard Is Quoted In A National News Story 
Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard is quoted in a new national NBC story about the importance of doing good background checks when hiring new employees at the sheriff's department.

The quotation from Allard, to NBC News reads: “I am a big believer that the size of the agency doesn’t matter. It’s whether or not you establish best practices and adhere to them, said Allard, who employs about 165 officers — a mix of jail guards, road patrol and school safety officers. “If you hire the wrong person, you’re going to spend so much more time and effort to get rid of them than you will in five background investigations.”

Langworthy Announces Funding For Elmira Project

Congressman Nick Langworthy says the Tanglewood Community Nature Center in Elmira has been awarded a federal grant of $1 million . The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) says the money will be used for the Tanglewood Canopy Walkway, a project that aims to enhance tourism and boost the local economy in the Finger Lakes region.

Want To Be A Trooper?  You Can Sign Up For Testing
Governor Kathy Hochul says that the New York State Police are now accepting applications for the Trooper Entrance Examination. Testing for candidates will begin on August 15.
More information is available at this website: www.joinstatepolice.ny.gov.

Annual Bike Ride Is Set For Saturday Around The Lake
Tour de Keuka is coming up tomorrow. Tour de Keuka is a supported bike ride around Keuka Lake to benefit United Way of the Southern Tier.  

Update On The Ursula Stone Case 

FROM STATE COMPTROLLER TOM DINAPOLIS OFFICE:

A former clerk-treasurer of the Village of Addison in Steuben County will be sentenced on Wednesday of next week, to serve 3-to-9 years in state prison, pay full restitution of $1.1 million, and forfeit her public pension after being convicted of one felony count of Corrupting the Government, New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, Steuben County District Attorney Brooks Baker, and the New York State Police announced today.  

Ursula Stone pled guilty on May 29, 2024, admitting that she abused her position to steal more than $1 million over her 19-year career. Stone’s forfeiture of her state pension as a result of her public corruption conviction will be the first pension forfeiture in New York state.

“Public service is a privilege and a duty. Those who abuse their positions and betray their communities undermine the integrity of government and risk losing their right to a public pension,” DiNapoli said.  “For nearly two decades, Ursula Stone took advantage of her position and the trust of Addison residents to shamelessly steal over a million dollars. Thanks to the work of my office, District Attorney Baker, and the State Police, her crimes were uncovered, and she has been brought to justice. This case should send a clear message that those who dishonor their public office will face serious consequences.”

“The magnitude, scope, duration and pervasiveness of this criminal activity is absolutely stunning,” Baker said.  “For nearly two decades, Ursula Stone abused the trust of the people of the Village of Addison, using her position to steal from their taxes, their schools and their community. The impact of her criminal acts on this community has been and will be felt for decades. But for the dedication and expertise of the New York State Comptroller’s Office it might still be going on unnoticed. This sentence sends a clear message to this defendant about the damage she caused and to anyone else who might consider such crimes about the high price that will be paid. I want to thank the New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli and the members of his office for the incredible effort they put forth in identifying and prosecuting this crime.  Their hard work and cooperation with the New York State Police and my office put us in a place to bring Ursula Stone to justice, and will bring this sad chapter for the village to a close.”

“The sentencing of Ms. Stone demonstrates the vital collaborative work of our law enforcement partners focused on the same goal; holding those who break our laws accountable,” New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said. “The victims in this case are the people of New York who put their trust in this former Village of Addison employee. I commend our State Police members, our partners at the State Comptroller’s Office and Steuben County District Attorney’s Office for their commitment to investigating those who prey on the unsuspecting public for their own gain.”

Under a 2011 law and a 2018 New York state Constitutional Amendment, certain public officials convicted of crimes related to their office may be subject to pension forfeiture. It is the responsibility of the prosecuting attorney with jurisdiction over the crime to commence an action for pension forfeiture and show the defendant knowingly and intentionally committed a crime related to public office. Here, Stone has admitted to her crimes and agreed to pension forfeiture as part of her sentence. 

Stone, who retired in March 2023, will forgo her monthly pension payment of $1,920.

DiNapoli’s office began an audit of the village in 2022 and found the 56-year-old Stone had been running the financial operations of the village with no oversight. She prepared payroll, maintained manual leave records, and processed health insurance buyouts and unused leave payments with no review or approval from the mayor or any other village official.

Upon subsequent investigation, DiNapoli’s office also discovered that checks from the Addison Central School District, payable to the village, were not deposited into the village’s accounts. A joint investigation by DiNapoli’s office, the New York State Police, and the Steuben County District Attorney’s Office determined that Stone stole dozens of such checks payable to the village, which she converted to certified bank checks and cashed.

Additionally, investigators found Stone gave herself unauthorized pay raises, took time off without deducting it from her leave credits and wrote herself checks for unauthorized health insurance buyouts from village funds. Stone had also been cashing out unused vacation time since 2004, an option that was only available to employees who resigned or retired.

Before submitting her resignation letter, she wrote herself a final check for $26,613, which was not authorized by the board. The board stopped payment on the check before she was able to cash it. In total, investigators say she stole $1,171,362.

Stone is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 7 by Judge Chauncey Watches of Steuben County Court and her pension forfeiture ordered by Judge Patrick F. McAllister in Steuben County Supreme Court.

Since taking office in 2007, DiNapoli has committed to fighting public corruption and encourages the public to help fight fraud and abuse. New Yorkers can report allegations of fraud involving taxpayer money by calling the toll-free Fraud Hotline at 1-888-672-4555, by filing a complaint online at https://www.osc.state.ny.us/investigations, or by mailing a complaint to: Office of the State Comptroller, Division of Investigations, 8th Floor, 110 State St., Albany, NY 12236.

County Public Defender Casey Rogers Gets An Award 

Steuben County First Assistant Public Defender Casey E. Rogers has received one of New York State’s highest honors for her work in public defense. Rogers received the state Defenders Association’s 2024 Kevin M. Andersen Memorial Award July 22 at the association’s 57th Annual Meeting and Conference in Saratoga. The award recognized Rogers for her high-quality legal work, leadership, generosity, and commitment to and respectful treatment of all clients.
Rogers was nominated for the award by county Chief Public Defender Shawn Sauro. “She is compassionate and passionate about our clients," Sauro said. “Casey is an immensely skilled trial attorney and the epitome of model trial advocacy." A leader in the county public defense department, Rogers manages the office's rapidly growing staff, and acts a role model and mentor to the department’s up-and-coming attorneys, Sauro said. The Kevin M. Andersen Memorial Award is presented to an attorney who has been in practice less than fifteen years, who practices in public defense, and who exemplifies the sense of justice, determination, and compassion that were the hallmarks of its namesake, a lawyer at the Genesee County Public Defender's Office.
NYSDA Deputy Director Natalie Brocklebank noted Rogers' fight for proper implementation of the discovery reforms of 2019, which included access to, and dissemination of, the association’s resources. "Casey has been a true advocate for her clients and has tirelessly worked to ensure the spirit of new reforms is followed," Brocklebank said. “She would share her insights about the local landscape of how the courts were interpreting the changes … (and develop) creative and compelling arguments without giving up." Positive results were followed up to ensure that any good decisions that have come out of her jurisdiction are shared with her colleagues as well as the larger defender community, Brocklebank said.
During the difficult period of reform implementation, complicated by COVID, Rogers won numerous motions on discovery issues according to NYSDA Staff Attorney Maxwell Kampfner.
"Casey has been instrumental in changing the culture and perception of public defense in Steuben County," said Sauro.
https://www.steubencountyny.gov
The 2024 award is not the first Sauro’s office has received. In 2023, Sauro accepted a NYSDA award on behalf of his office for working continuously to invoke and enforce discovery. Rogers has helped make sure such excellence continues, Sauro said, adding "Discussing public defense practice, one young attorney told me ‘I want to be the best...I want to be Casey Rogers.’"

Rep. Tenney Calls On OSHA To Back Off New Rules

From Congresswoman Claudia Tenney:

Yesterday in Lockport, Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today was joined by Niagara County Legislators Anthony Nemi, Shawn Foti, and Christopher McKimmie, President of FASNY Edward Tase, Jr., Niagara County Director of Emergency Services and Fire Coordinator Jonathan Schultz, and numerous local volunteer firefighters to call on the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to reconsider expanding regulations that threaten the closure of volunteer fire departments across New York.  

In February, OSHA unveiled a new safety and health standard to replace the Fire Brigades Standard, suggesting 22 additional rules for all fire departments. These encompass obligatory facility upgrades and enhanced training requirements. However, the proposal overlooks the substantial financial and operational constraints faced by numerous volunteer fire departments. In May, Tenney sent a letter to Assistant Secretary of Labor Douglas Parker, urging OSHA to reconsider these rules and extend the public comment period.

“Thank you to the outstanding volunteer firefighters from our community for joining me in urging OSHA to reconsider the 22 additional rules that would burden our local fire departments,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “NY-24 depends on volunteer firefighters to keep our community safe, putting their lives on the line to save others. We must ensure they are not hampered by burdensome and costly regulations that could lead to closures or limited access to emergency services in our rural communities. I will continue advocating against these regulations and work to ensure our rural and volunteer fire departments have the resources they need.”

GILLIBRAND: Setting Up A Hotline For First Responders 

From Senator Gillibrand's Office:  U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Josh Hawley (R-MO) introduced the bipartisan First Responders Wellness Act, legislation that would establish a grant program to expand culturally competent and professional mental health services for law enforcement officers. The bill would also establish a national mental health hotline for first responders. 

“Our first responders put themselves in extremely challenging and life-threatening situations in order to keep us safe. Unfortunately, it takes a toll; first responders face higher rates of PTSD and suicide compared to the civilian population,” said Senator Gillibrand. “We must support the men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting ours. The bipartisan First Responders Wellness Act would create a new grant program to provide professional and culturally competent mental health services to law enforcement officers and establish a mental health hotline for the first responder community. I’m proud to work with Senator Hawley on this important legislation and look forward to getting it across the finish line.