Author: Brian O'Neil

September 16, 2026

FROM U.S. SENATOR CHUCK SCHUMER: “The unchecked danger of catastrophic risks from AI is a serious problem that demands action. The Trump administration must come before the Senate immediately for a classified briefing on these risks and the steps being taken to protect Americans. The American people deserve answers.”

Senator Gillibrand has issued recent statements saying that A.I. should not be used in nuclear weapons programs and she says, A.I. use by scammers has caused many senior citizens to lose large amounts of money. “Seniors lost nearly $8 billion to scammers in 2025, with an average loss of $39,000 per person. This includes over $350 million lost in AI-related scams. Total scam losses increased by 59% from 2024. Common AI scams include phishing attacks, where fraudsters trick individuals into revealing sensitive information; voice cloning, where generative AI is used to mimic a familiar voice; and image creation scams, where generative AI is used to forge documents and identification to make fraudulent messages appear trustworthy.”

September 16, 2026
By Alfred State Spokesperson Paul Welker

Back by popular demand the Alfred State College (ASC) Culinary Arts department will host a Southern BBQ drive thru dinner on Thursday, Sept. 24 at the Culinary Arts Building on the Wellsville campus. The meals will be available starting at 3:30 PM until 6 PM (or sold out).

The dinner will include:

Smoked Turkey Breast
Smoked Sausage
Macaroni & Cheese
Southern Style Green Beans
Corn Bread
Apple Cider Blondie

The cost of the meal is $15 (Cash and check only). There will also be baked goods (pies, brownies, cookies, and cookie sandwiches) available to purchase. Proceeds of the event will benefit the program’s scholarship fund. If you have any questions, please call (607) 587-3170 or email WoodME1@alfredstate.edu. This event is replacing the previously advertised 3 Choice Dinner which has been cancelled.

September 16, 2026

Today, in response to Congress’ nonpartisan scorekeeper releasing its finding that the war in Iran has cost taxpayers $38 billion so far, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand issued the following statement: “Donald Trump is wasting billions of taxpayer dollars fighting a reckless war of choice overseas while working families are paying the price. Americans need relief from sky-high inflation, but this administration is focused instead on dropping bombs, building ballrooms, and appeasing billionaires. This war is an astronomically expensive disaster that is driving up the cost of gas, groceries, and other everyday essentials that we rely on. I won’t stop fighting to end it and hold this administration accountable for their reckless, dangerous actions.”

September 16, 2026

FROM GOP CANDIDATE FOR GOVERNOR, BRUCE BLAKEMAN: “After driving up electric bills 50% and hiking utility rates 48 times, Kathy Hochul’s one-time utility rebate checks are nothing more than insulting ‘peanuts,’ Nassau County Executive and Gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman declared today.
Blakeman slammed the “election year gimmick” at a press conference with local homeowners, small business owners, and a coalition of regional leaders, including New York City Councilwoman Joann Ariola, New York State Assembly candidate Tom Sullivan, and Angelo Pellegrino, owner of the local staple Brother’s Ravioli. ‘Do the math: a one-time $200 check doesn’t make a dent when your bills are running $1,000 higher year after year,” Blakeman said. “These checks are nothing more than insulting ‘peanuts’ handed out in the mail because Kathy Hochul hiked our utility rates 48 times, sending electric bills soaring 50% and costing families up to $1,320 annually. It’s a transparent election-year gimmick that fails to fix the affordability crisis she created. If you want real relief, vote for me for Governor, and I will cut your utility bill in half.'”

September 15, 2026

FROM STEUBEN COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY BROOKS BAKER: A bench trial in Steuben County Court ended with a verdict convicting 55 year-old Mihaly Bodnar, formerly of Hornell, of: 3 Counts of Predatory Sexual Assault of a Child, each a class AII felony; 2 Counts of Assault in the Second Degree, each a class D felony; 2 Counts of Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child, Each a Class B felony; and 2 Counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, each a class A misdemeanor. Steuben County Judge Christopher M. Tunney rendered the verdict at approximately 3:00pm this afternoon after several days of trial – where it was proven beyond a reasonable doubt that Defendant sexually abused, and injured, two children under the age of 11 in the City of Hornell multiple times over a period running from August of 2024 through March of 2025.

Steuben County District Attorney Brooks Baker, who tried the case for the People, was pleased with the verdict: “These are always incredibly tough cases, here, a combination of solid police work, the efforts of the Steuben County Child Advocacy Center and incredible strength and courage of two child victims all came together to take a dangerous child predator off the street today.” The investigation was spearheaded by the Hornell Police Department, under Investigator Tom Aini who put the case together with assistance from Sgt. Danny Murray who played a key role in locating the Defendant as he fled the jurisdiction. Inv. Jeremy Hagadone of the District Attorney’s Office also assisted, and helped enlist Homeland Security in the eventual apprehension of Bodnar – who fled Hornell after the Victims came forward and was arrested at Newark International Airport in New Jersey with a one-way ticket to Hungary.

Defendant was remanded to the Steuben County Jail without bail after the verdict. He faces a sentence of up to 25years to life in prison when he appears for sentencing on November 5, 2026. Bodnar was represented by Attorney Susan Betzjitomer at trial. Baker, who said he will be advocating for that maximum sentence, stated: “I am very happy for the Victim’s today, they showed incredible strength in coming forward and courage in facing their abuser in the Courtroom. Because of them, this predator will not be in a place to hurt another child for the rest of his life – they really are heroes, and I hope this little bit of justice helps them begin to heal.”.

September 15, 2026

Allegany County Sheriff Scott Cicirello reports that this morning at 9:09am, the Allegany County 9-1-1 Office got a call about a hazardous materials incident, inside a dumpster, at the landfill, in the Allegany County Town of Angelica. The sheriff says that the origins are unknown as are the type of materials. Two people were taken to the hospital for treatment after being exposed to smoke coming from this dumpstser. Cicirello also notes that there was a small amount of smoke.

According to the sheriff, County Road 48 is currently open. However, the landfill is closed until further notice. The public is asked to avoid the area for the time being. The sheriff also states that there is no known threat at this time.

September 15, 2026

Allegany County District Attorney Peter Degnan says that Gregory Miller of Penndel, Pennsylvania, has been found guilty in a case where Miller is said to have shot and seriously injured a person in Wellsville in July of 2024. Miller was sent to the Allegany County Jail on September 14, where he awaits sentencing from Judge Terrence Parker. Miller will be sentenced on November 23. According to the district attorneys office, Miller will face mandatory imprisonment on all of the charges. The D.A.’s office says that means Miller will get between five and 25 years because of the Class B Felony charges he was found guilty of. As for the Class C felonies, that requires 3.5 years to fifteen years in prison. On top of that, Miller is facing a sentencing of 2.5 years to five years of post-release supervision.

The Allegany County District Attorneys Office is thanking the NYSP and the jury for their time and attention on this case.

September 15, 2026

Steuben County Assistant District Attorney Joan Merry says, the Mihaly Bodnar case is going on this week in the Steuben County Court in Bath. Bodnar is accused of allegedly abusing children in Hornell. Hornell Police say he tried to fly out of the country from the Newark, New Jersey airport, just before he was arrested. He was arrested at that airport by ICE.

Merry also says that District Attorney Brooks Baker is the prosecutor in this case.

September 15, 2026

It’s a beautiful day in Steuben County! The first week of school has come and gone, the first hint of fall color has arrived on the hills, and we have been blessed with incredible late summer weather! With the return of school, we all must remember to leave a little earlier in the morning and be watchful for school buses and walkers on their way back to their respective locations. Please remember to stop for all school buses that are displaying their red lights and stop signs. Also remember that buses must come to a complete stop at all railroad crossings and all school zone speed limits are now again in effect. Make sure we begin this school year safely, with patience on the roadways.
Last Friday we observed the twenty-fifth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on our country. In remembering our response to those terror attacks and proudly recognizing the heroic actions of those that responded, we need to remember also those that still carry the psychological scars and health-related issues resulting from that response. We also remember all of the young men and women who joined our armed forces in response to that attack and how their lives changed forever because of that day. For those of us in the first responder community, we know all too well the cost of accumulated stress and trauma, and the personal price paid for public safety. Please take the time to thank a First Responder for their service and say a prayer for those struggling as a result of their duty.
In August we dedicated the Law Enforcement Firearms Training Facility to retired Sergeant Les Brown of the Bath Police Department. Sergeant Brown, and then Chief of Police Dave Rouse, spent an incredible amount of time getting resources to create, build and maintain a state-of-the-art facility for regional firearms training which has benefited our area for the past twenty years. Thank you, Les!
It has been a busy summer here at the Sheriff’s Office. On the patrol side, we have hired four new Deputy Sheriffs, and on the corrections side, we have added several new Corrections Officers with a retirement thrown in! Two of our new Deputies, Deputy Staples and Deputy Turner, are currently in the SUNY Alfred Police Academy and will begin field training in about a month. Deputy Chapman and Deputy Weldy are awaiting the next academy and are in supervised training until then. On the Corrections side, we hired Corrections Officers Henshaw, Olds, Williams, and Crooker, along with part-time Officers posted in Court Security, Waltman, and Faucett. After 26 years of service, Officer Scott Rodbourn retired and we wish him well!
Officer Mary Lisi was recognized by the Seventh Judicial District of the NYS Unified Court System for her life saving actions in NYS Supreme Court. Lieutenant Chris Kennedy was recognized by Congressman Langworthy as a Community Hero for his service in both the fire service and as the supervisor of the Criminal Investigation Unit at the Sheriff’s Office.
In the Corrections Division, Lieutenant Wetherby and Sergeant Sciotti completed the Fire Inspections for Correctional Facilities training. Sergeant Sciotti and Officer Eighmey completed the ALERRT train the trainer course. A multi-agency search of the jail by regional CERT teams and NYS DOCCS was conducted. The Jail Garden has donated over 600 pounds of produce to the Corning Food Pantry this season with more to come. Eleven inmates graduated from Anger Management Class in the jail, hopefully reducing recidivism.
The Sheriff’s Office hosted the ALERRT Train the Trainer Course and the NYS Physical Fitness Instructor Course. Investigator Ellison completed the NYS Firearms Instructor Course. Sergeant Nybeck, Deputy Donahue and Corrections Officer Pruden completed the Physical Fitness Instructor Course. The Sheriff’s Office provided security and presented at the Steuben County Fair, with a car seat check, KidCare IDS, bicycle helmet giveaways and our continual presence. Lieutenant Sorge and Deputy Butler presented at two Boater Safety training sessions. Sheriff Allard was honored to be a presenter at the Congressman Langworthy Community Hero celebration and presented on both “Frankly Speaking” and WLEA “The Pulse”.

September 15, 2026
By Alfred State College Spokesperson Paul Welker

“This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our faculty and staff and the connections they build with students throughout the college journey,” said President Steven Mauro. “From a student’s first interaction with Alfred State through their arrival on campus, our team works hard to make them feel welcomed, supported, and confident that they have found the right place to pursue their goals.” This success comes at a time when higher education institutions across the Northeast face demographic challenges and increased competition for students. This growth demonstrates the strength of the institution’s distinctive approach to delivering programs of the highest quality, combining applied learning with meaningful industry connections to prepare graduates for career success or continued education. “This enrollment milestone reflects the tremendous confidence students and families have in Alfred State,” said Vice President of Enrollment Management Kishan Zuber. “Students are choosing colleges that offer a clear pathway to opportunity, and Alfred State’s combination of applied learning, workforce-aligned programs, personalized support, and proven graduate success continues to resonate with prospective students and their families.”

Applied learning takes place in laboratories, studios, internships, clinical experiences, field work, and with industry partnerships. Students graduate with practical skills, professional experience, and a clear understanding of their career pathways. Strong student retention has also helped fuel enrollment momentum, as the college continues to welcome large incoming classes while keeping students engaged and supported on their path to graduation. More than 1,500 new students have chosen Alfred State each of the past two years, drawn by distinctive blend of hands-on learning, in-demand academic programs, and a close-knit campus community.

The college’s appeal is further strengthened by:

A 99% employment and continuing education rate which reflects strong industry partnerships and workforce demand for graduates.
An exceptional return on investment, No. 1 among public schools in WNY*, through applied learning, industry connections, and strong career outcomes.
A broad range of in-demand programs in engineering technology, skilled trades, health sciences, business, agriculture, architecture, design, and emerging technologies.
A close-knit campus community that fosters engagement, belonging, and student success in the Ultimate College Town**
Historic levels of SUNY and state support. Alfred State is now a participant in SUNY Reconnect and the SUNY ASAP and ACE programs.
Continued investments in modern facilities, equipment, and learning environments.

The college’s signature hands-on approach remains one of its strongest recruitment advantages. From the first semester, students work with the same tools, technologies, and equipment they will encounter in their professions, providing a practical advantage that resonates with both students and employers.

*According to the Georgetown University Center on Education and Workforce.
**According to the Washington Post – Alfred, NY is the #1 Ultimate College Town.

September 15, 2026

FROM HORNELL MAYOR JOHN BUCKLEY: The City of Hornell is proud to recognize Keith Cone for his many years of selfless service to our community. A 22-year U.S. Navy veteran and longtime Commander of Hornell VFW Post 2250, Keith has carried his commitment to serving others into every part of his life. Whether helping a veteran in need, supporting a local family, standing behind our first responders, or simply making the VFW a welcoming place for anyone who needs a helping hand, Keith is someone people know they can count on. He is particularly proud of the work done through the Catherine Cone Scholarship, which has raised more than $63,000 to benefit the community. Much of what he does happens quietly, without seeking recognition.

“Keith has a genuine heart for people and a willingness to step up whenever someone needs help,” said Mayor John Buckley. “His kindness, generosity and dedication have touched countless lives and made Hornell a better community.”

.

September 15, 2026

FROM THE NEW YORK STATE TEACHERS UNION: New Yorkers from 80+ organizations to rally against Trump’s private school voucher scheme, urge Gov. Hochul to opt out. Hundreds of New Yorkers, including parents, educators, faith leaders, civil rights advocates and community members from more than 80 organizations statewide, will rally to tell Gov. Hochul: reject President Trump’s taxpayer-funded private school voucher program.

Public dollars belong in public schools, not private institutions with no accountability to taxpayers.

What: Press conference and social rally

When: 10:30 a.m., Wed, Sept. 16

Where: UFT Headquarters, 52 Broadway, New York, NY 10004, Shanker Hall

Who: NAACP, National Action Network, New York State United Teachers, UFT, AFT, lawmakers, elected officials and labor, parent, education and civil rights groups.