Author: Brian O'Neil

August 11, 2026

Calling hours for the two fatal Wellsville ATV accident victims, three year old Ashley and 38 year old Emersyn Robichad, are being held this Thursday from 6pm to 9pm at the Wellsville Secondary School on West State Street.

The memorial service will be Saturday at 1130am at the St Martin In The Fields Church in Grand Island. Emersyn had been teaching at the Wellsville Elementary School and had before that, worked, teaching in South Carolina.

Tragically, the mother and daughter, died in an ATV accident on August 6 in Wellsville.

August 10, 2026

FROM REP. NICK LANGWORTHY: Congressman Nick Langworthy today announced the endorsement of the influential North Atlantic Council of Carpenters and Carpenters Local 276 Union, who strongly backed his re-election, citing his demonstrated commitment to the skilled trades and the creation of good-paying jobs to strengthen the middle class. The Carpenters Local 276 represents skilled men and women who build the roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, businesses and infrastructure that keep communities across Western New York and the Southern Tier moving forward.

“I’m incredibly proud to have the support of the hardworking men and women of the North Atlantic Council of Carpenters and Carpenters Local 276,” said Congressman Langworthy. “Our skilled trades workers represent the backbone of our economy, and in Washington I’m fighting to ensure that the people who work hard and build our communities have the policies in place to succeed. That means creating jobs, investing in infrastructure, strengthening our manufacturing and construction industries, and ensuring they can keep more of their hard-earned wages. I will always fight to expand opportunities in the skilled trades and ensure the next generation of workers has the opportunity to earn a good living and raise their families here.”

“Congressman Langworthy has a proven record of championing workers and delivering results,” said Chris Austin, Business Manager of Carpenters Local 276. “Time and again, he has stood up for the skilled trades and fought for the policies and the investments needed to create good jobs and strengthen our economy. We are proud to enthusiastically support his reelection and look forward to working with him to continue building a stronger future for our workers and our region.”

Congressman Langworthy has made strengthening Western New York’s economy and expanding opportunity for working families a priority in Congress. He has fought to support infrastructure investment, expand U.S. manufacturing, create affordable and reliable energy, and policies that encourage businesses to create jobs and invest.

He concluded, “As someone who grew up in a working-class family, I know that a good job can change the trajectory of an entire family. Every worker deserves the opportunity to earn a good wage, provide for their family and build a future they can be proud of. It’s my honor to fight for them in Congress.”

August 11, 2026

The Canisteo Town Board has approved and signed a three year contract with the Canisteo Volunteer Fire Department. Next it goes to the Canisteo Village Board for them to sign. The Canisteo Village Board meets tomorrow night, Wednesday, August 12.

In other Canisteo news, coming up later this month, there will be a workshop with engineers about repairs to Red Spring Run and Rock Run, caused by the August 2024 Tropical Storm Debi.

August 10, 2026

FROM REP. NICK LANGWORTHY: “It feels great to be back in the district for the August district work period and to have the opportunity to travel across our district to meet with seniors, business owners, non-profits, first responders and our local government officials. This week was another poignant reminder of why my office motto is “no problem is too big, no problem is too small.” As I met with various constituents and business owners this week, it was rewarding to be reminded of the work being done every day to help folks with their problems. Whether it was a senior I heard at the Allegany Seniors picnic tell me about how much it meant for our office to help with a Social Security issue or the owner of Akron Cat Rescue, who took a shot at calling our office when her Facebook page was inexplicably shut down, these are the things happening every single day that matter to people’s lives.

“I always tell my staff, “When someone calls our office it’s likely they have already exhausted every other resource available to them and they are frustrated. It’s our job to step in and help.” I want every resident of this congressional district to know that we are here to be of service and will do everything in our power to deliver a positive outcome for the issue you are facing. Whether that means fighting to bring home federal resources to our communities or simply making a phone call to unlocking federal red tape, I view it as my job to be your champion in Washington. I hope you’ll take a moment to continue reading about my travels this week and some of the exciting things happening for our communities across Western New York and the Southern Tier.”

August 9, 2026

FROM BUFFALOBILLS.COM: The Bills practiced for nearly two hours at Highmark Stadium, here’s what stood out: CBs vs WRs 1-on-1s. TE Jackson Hawes made a catch down the left sideline from QB Josh Allen for a touchdown.

QB Kyle Allen had two great throws for touchdowns. The first was a go ball to WR Mecole Hardman who got behind CB Jordan Hancock down the sideline. A few plays later, Allen found WR Dante Pettis who made a spectacular over the shoulder grab in the end zone. S Cole Bishop ran stride for stride with TE Dalton Kincaid and turned his head at the perfect moment to find the ball and come away with an INT.

The Bills worked in a variety of game-like situations, allowing both sides of the ball to compete at a high level. Early on, Buffalo’s offense had the advantage with back-to-back big plays to James Cook. The Bills RB took the first play of team drills on a pitch to the left and picked up a first down. On the next play, Cook caught a screen pass and churned out another solid gain with lead blocking from LT Dion Dawkins.

Later in the drive, Allen launched the ball deep to WR DJ Moore down the middle of the field and the receiver caught the ball in stride for a 50-yard gain.

Click here for full story from the Buffalo Bills website.

August 9, 2026
By State Senator Tom O’Mara

The rebirth and spectacular rise of New York State’s wine and grape industry over the past generation – joined by, especially over the past decade, the burgeoning industry surrounding craft breweries, cideries, and distilleries – continues to stand as one of our state’s greatest success stories.

Especially right here in the Finger Lakes region.

The New York Wine and Grape Foundation has noted this success in past annual reports, “The State’s investment in the wine and grape industry provides sound economic returns in the form of tax revenue, jobs, and rural economic development. This public-private partnership drives the grape and wine industry’s growth and makes it a major state economic engine that generates more than $6.65 billion in direct economic impact, supports 71,950 jobs, contributes $1.12 billion in state and local taxes, and attracts over 4.71 million tourists to wineries every year who spend $1.33 billion.”

Those are remarkable numbers and a testament to the commitment, excellence, hard work, innovation, and quality of New York’s wine producers and grape growers.

On Monday, August 10th, the 40th annual New York Wine Classic, a nationally recognized competition, takes place. It is the state’s premier wine competition, noted for celebrating the excellence and quality of New York State wines.

One of the premier wineries in the Finger Lakes, Weis Vineyards of Hammondsport, captured the Winery of the Year title in 2022, 2024 and last year. In 2024, Weis Vineyards also won the Governor’s Cup for its Riesling Ice Wine.

The winery’s owners, Peter and Ashlee Weis, recently said, “The New York Wine Classic is the most recognized wine competition in New York State. For us, it is especially meaningful because it is all New York wineries competing against each other. We love being part of the New York wine industry, and it is a great opportunity to see how our wines stack up against some of the best wines being made across the state. The competition gives wineries across the state a way to measure themselves. It helps showcase the quality of New York wines as a whole. It is also a great reminder of how much talent there is throughout the industry and helps shine a spotlight on New York as a serious wine-producing region.”

We look forward to the announcement of this year’s New York Wine Classic winners and the chance, once again, to celebrate the excellence of the Finger Lakes Region and all of New York State.

As New York State Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard A. Ball noted following last year’s competition, “Our wine makers are gaining fast recognition across the globe for something we’ve long known: New York is a premier wine making region with some of the highest quality producers in the world. The prestigious New York Wine Classic helps us shine the spotlight on our industry and our producers, who are incredibly important to our agricultural industry, supporting our grape growers and helping to fuel our economy. Congratulations to all of the wineries who entered into this competition and who continue to set themselves apart by producing some of the very best wines in the world.”

To stay updated on this year’s New York Wine Classic, go to: https://newyorkwines.org/clas.sic/new-york-wine-classic-2026/.

Thanks to all of you for your amazing contributions to our region and the quality, strength, and pride of so many of our communities!
Read and find out more about Finger Lakes Wine Country – the region’s wine trails, over 140 wineries, and over 10,000 acres of vineyards — at: https://newyorkwines.org.

The same goes for the contributions of the craft beverage industry. According to the New York State Brewers Association (NYSBA, newyorkcraftbeer.com):
The number of New York State breweries has grown from 95 in 2012 to more than 500 in 2024;
New York State is the second-largest craft beer market in the United States with an economic impact of $4.8 Billion.
New York State craft breweries increased production from 557,436 barrels in 2011 to 1,434,992 barrels in 2023.
I have welcomed numerous opportunities to help develop, sponsor, and strongly support bipartisan efforts to solidify our world-class wine and craft beverage industries, as well as agriculture, small business, and tourism throughout the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions, and statewide.

Most importantly, New York government must continue to take commonsense steps and regulatory reforms that recognize the ongoing need to support these vibrant industries and help them continue to grow, create more jobs, and spark regional growth through the unlimited economic spin-off opportunities they offer.

One thing is certain: These industries are economic engines throughout this region and New York State overall, providing good, sustainable livelihoods for thousands of New Yorkers and serving as steady foundations for so many local communities.

August 9, 2026

From Claudia Tenney’s Office; Rep. Claudia Tenney (NY-24) has released her 2026 Israel and Iran Plan, outlining a legislative agenda to strengthen the United States’ alliance with Israel, confront the Iranian regime and its terrorist proxies, promote regional security, and advance President Trump’s Peace Through Strength strategy. The 2026 Israel and Iran Plan focuses on supporting Israel’s right to defend itself, increasing pressure on the Iranian regime and its network of terrorist organizations, strengthening cooperation between the United States and Israel on national security and emerging technologies, countering international efforts to delegitimize Israel, and promoting religious freedom and Israel’s historical ties to Judea and Samaria. The plan also emphasizes preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, disrupting its support for terrorism, and ensuring American foreign policy advances the security interests of both the United States and its allies.

“The United States must stand with Israel and remain resolute in confronting the Iranian regime, the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “A nuclear armed Iran would threaten not only Israel, but the security of the United States and our allies around the world. My Israel and Iran Plan reinforces our unwavering commitment to Israel, supports President Trump’s Peace Through Strength agenda, and advances policies that deny Iran the resources it uses to spread terror, destabilize the Middle East, and threaten American lives. America’s security and Israel’s security are deeply connected, and we must continue leading from a position of strength.”

To view Congresswoman Tenney’s full Israel and Iran Plan, click here.

August 9. 2026

FROM SEN. GILLIBRAND: U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) applauded the Senate’s unanimous passage of their bipartisan Officer John Barnes and Chief Michael Ansbro Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program Expansion Act, which would help first responders and their families receive their federal disability and death benefits quicker. Currently, it can take years for applicants to learn whether they qualify for payments. “This is a major win for our public safety officers, who put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Today, we are one step closer to fixing a slow and broken process that keeps first responders and their families in limbo for years on end, including those who risked and lost their lives on 9/11. It is time to bring them the relief they deserve. I am proud that the Senate has passed this bill, and I now urge the House to do the same.”

“The Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program was created to ensure that our first responders receive the benefits they deserve and need. We owe it to our first responders and their families to ensure they receive timely and fair support, and I am grateful to have worked with Senator Gillibrand to advance this bill through the Senate. I urge my colleagues in the House to pass this legislation without delay,” said Senator Cruz.

The Officer John Barnes and Chief Michael Ansbro Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program Expansion Act would amend the Bureau of Justice Assistance’s (BJA) Public Safety Officers’ Benefits (PSOB) Program to improve processing times and reduce delays in benefit determinations. The PSOB Program provides death benefits to survivors of first responders who have died in the line of duty, as well as disability benefits to officers catastrophically injured in the line of duty. Specifically, the senators’ bill would:

Require the BJA to complete a death or disability eligibility determination within 270 days of receiving a complete claim
Require the BJA to use its subpoena authority if a public agency fails to provide requested documentation in relation to a claimant’s case
Expedite processing for officers already certified for benefits through the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) or the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF)
Direct BJA to implement GAO recommendations to establish updated program processes and administrative procedures

This legislation is endorsed by over 30 public safety officer organizations and unions, including: the Sergeants Benevolent Association of NYPD, National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), Fraternal Order of Police, FDNY EMS Local 2507 Uniformed EMTs Paramedics & Fire Inspectors Union, Firefighter’s Association of the State of New York, NYLEAP, Nassau County Superior Officers Association, Voices Center for Resilience, Town of Brighton Police Department, NYPD Captains Endowment Association, Port Authority Police Lieutenants Benevolent Association, Police Benevolent Association of the New York State Troopers, New York State Association of Chiefs of Police, Port Authority of NY & NJ Detectives Endowment Association, Peace Officers Research Association of California, Pittsford Volunteer Ambulance, Inc., United States Deputy Sheriff’s Association, California Association of Highway Patrolmen, Uniformed Firefighters Association of Greater New York, Friends of Firefighters, Police Chiefs’ Association of Orange County, City of Syracuse New York Fire Department, Village of Tuckahoe Police, National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition (NNOAC), City of Utica Fire Department, Riverside Sheriffs’ Association, Major County Sheriffs of America, City of Syracuse Police Department, Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, International Association of Chiefs of Police, American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), Austin Police Association, City of Utica Police Department, Orange County Sheriff’s Department, San Diego Police Officers Association, and Town of Hyde Park Police Department.

August 7, 2026

FROM NYSP: On August 6, 2026, at 2:30 P.M., Troopers out of SP Amity responded to an ATV rollover with possible fatalities on Niles Hill Road in the town of Wellsville. Investigation determined a 2003 Polaris Trail Boss 4wheeler operated by Ashley R. Robichaud, 38 of Wellsville, NY with her two children, 6 and 3-year-old were traveling the fence line in the pasture. When the Polaris was at the lowest point of elevation in the pasture it overturned pinning Ashley and the 6-year-old, Emersyn E. Robichaud underneath the Polaris. Ashley and Emersyn were pronounced deceased at the scene. The 3-year-old was transported by Mercy Flight to Golisano Children’s Hospital in Rochester for non-life-threatening injuries.

NYSP Collision Reconstruction Unit and the Bureau of Criminal Investigation assisted in this investigation.

This is still an active investigation.

August 7, 2026

FROM ALFRED-ALMOND SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT BRETT DUSINBERRE: We want to take a moment to clarify what the New York State Education Department (NYSED) has actually determined and what it means for our students. First, it is important to address a common misconception: Regents Exams are not disappearing entirely. However, NYSED is officially ending the requirement that students must pass these exams to earn a high school diploma, beginning with the 2027-2028 school year.

Following the recommendations of the state’s Blue Ribbon Commission on Graduation Measures, the Board of Regents adopted a new “Portrait of a Graduate” framework. This updated model allows students to demonstrate proficiency through multiple pathways—such as capstone projects, portfolios, and work-based learning—rather than relying solely on standardized test scores.

Here is what this means for a student’s graduation timeline:

Class of 2027 (Current Seniors): The existing rules remain fully in place. Students graduating this year must still earn passing scores on Regents exams to receive their diplomas.

Class of 2028 and Beyond: The requirement to pass Regents Exams will officially sunset. Students will still take state assessments as required by federal testing guidelines, but passing them will become just one of several ways to demonstrate graduation readiness. The new graduation measures are expected to be fully phased in by the 2029-2030 school year.

August 6, 2026

FROM THE ALLEGANY DEPT OF HEALTH: Belmont, NY — The Allegany County Department of Health (ACDOH) is continuing its investigation into a confirmed case of measles within the county. The individual is recovering well. Through contact tracing, public health staff have identified 45 direct contacts and provided them with guidance and monitoring instructions. Among these contacts, two individuals exposed during the infectious period are now presumed positive. This status indicates they have developed symptoms consistent with measles, though laboratory testing was not performed. ACDOH is collaborating closely with health care facilities and community partners to monitor these individuals and contain further spread. Risk to the general public remains low, particularly for individuals who are fully vaccinated against measles or were born prior to 1957 (and are presumed to have natural immunity).

Key Symptoms to Watch For:

High fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes
A red, blotchy rash that typically starts on the face and spreads downward 3 to 5 days after initial symptoms begin

Guidance for Residents:

Check Immunization Records: Ensure you and your family are up to date on the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine. Two doses are 97% effective at preventing measles.
Call Ahead Before Seeking Care: If you develop symptoms consistent with measles, stay home and call your healthcare provider, urgent care, or emergency room before arriving. Pre-notifying the facility allows medical staff to implement isolation precautions to protect other patients and staff.
For additional information on measles, visit the ACDOH website at www.alleganyco.gov or contact the department at (585) 268-9250.

August 7, 2026

FROM THE AARON GIES FOR CONGRESS CAMPAIGN: Aaron Gies, Democratic candidate for Congress in New York’s 23rd Congressional District, kicked off his districtwide 100 town hall tour in Jamestown Thursday evening, drawing more than 125 residents to Prendergast Library, where it was standing room only. The strong turnout brought together residents from across Jamestown and the surrounding communities to hear directly from Gies, ask questions, and discuss the issues facing working families across the Southern Tier and Western New York. “This is what democracy is supposed to look like,” said Aaron Gies. “People coming together, asking tough questions, sharing their experiences, and expecting their representatives to actually listen. I am running for Congress because I believe every person in this district deserves to have a representative who shows up, listens, and works with them to make a good life affordable.”

The Jamestown town hall marks the beginning of Gies’ town hall tour, which will take him to communities throughout NY-23. The district stretches roughly 230 miles from the Pennsylvania border to the Southern Tier and approximately 100 miles from South Lockport to the Pennsylvania border. Earlier in the day, current Congressman Nicholas Langworthy held a State of the District address to a private paying audience of business owners at an undisclosed location in downtown Jamestown. Gies said the purpose of the tour is simple: to listen to residents directly and make sure the campaign is grounded in the experiences of the people who live and work in the district.“For too long, people have been told that politics is something that happens to them instead of something they get to participate in,” Gies said. “I want to change that. Whether you live in Jamestown, Olean, Elmira, Corning, or one of the many rural communities in between, your voice matters. Your concerns matter. And you deserve to be heard.” Throughout the town hall, residents raised questions about affordability, AI, healthcare, housing, education, the future of rural communities, and the challenges facing working families. The event also reinforced one of the central themes of Gies’ campaign: making a good life affordable for everyone. “More than 125 people showed up because they want a government that works for them,” Gies said. “They want to know that their kids will have opportunities here, that they can afford to see a doctor, that they can find good work, and that they can retire with dignity. Those aren’t partisan concerns. They are the concerns of our neighbors, and they are exactly what I intend to fight for in Congress.”

Gies will continue the town hall tour in communities throughout NY 23 in the coming weeks and announce those on social media and the campaign website, aaronforny23.com.

Since being elected in 2023, Langworthy has yet to hold an in-person town hall.