Category: Home Page Headlines

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.

September 14, 2026

FROM STEUBEN COUNTY DEMOCRAT CHAIR SHAWN HOGAN: Attention defenders of Democracy and the rule of law. Our Democratic Headquarters is getting ready for operation. We are looking for volunteers. We will have our Grand Opening on Thursday Evening at 6pm 9/17/26.

Please come and show your support, refreshments will be served.

Peace and all good.
Shawn D. Hogan
Steuben County Democratic
Chairman

September 14, 2026

FROM STEUBEN COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICES DIRECTOR TIM MARSHALL: Avoca Fire Department was dispatched to a Structure Fire this morning at around 9:30. Mutual Aid was provided by Cohocton, Howard, Kanona, Atlanta and Perkinsville. Cohocton Valley Ambulance provided EMS Standby. The fire is still under investigation by the Steuben County Fire Investigation Team. Residents are being assisted by the Red Cross. No further details are available at this time.

September 14, 2026

FROM BATH ELECTRIC GAS AND WATER: *EAST STEUBEN STREET, BEGINNING AT INTERSECTION OF LIBERTY STREET AND WEST-EAST STEUBEN STREET, NORTH SIDE OF PULTENEY PARK***

Villager Construction, contractor for water main replacement within the Village of Bath and nearby areas in the Town of Bath, will be mobilizing to the intersection of Liberty Street and West-East Steuben Street Tuesday, September 15, 2026, to replace water main on East Steuben Street.
Flagging of this intersection for vehicular traffic is anticipated, and scheduled to begin Wednesday, September 16, 2026. Pedestrian traffic will also be impacted. Please follow all signs designating detour routes. We ask all travelers to exercise, extreme caution when traveling through this construction zone. We greatly appreciate the continued patience and understanding of our residents, businesses, patrons, community partners, and visitors.

September 14, 2026

On Tuesday, September 15, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., the New York State Department of Transportation will be conducting a statewide “CDL Day” at 60 participating residencies across the state. During this time, anyone who has a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or is looking to obtain a CDL can walk into any of the participating residencies and apply in person, meet the team and have an on-site interview.

In Region 6 (Southern Tier/Central New York), impacted residencies and addresses are as follows:

Allegany County, 14 South Branch Street, Friendship, NY 14739
Chemung/Schuyler Counties, 3545 Co. Rte. 16, Watkins Glen, NY 14891
Steuben County, 3863 Meads Creek Road, Rd #2, Painted Post, NY 14870
Yates County, 2400 State Route 14A, Penn Yann, NY 14527

September 14, 2026

FROM SENATOR’S SCHUMER AND GILLIBRAND: U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced they are delivering $33,720,260 in new federal funding to upgrade airport facilities and equipment at Upstate New York airports. This federal funding was awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)’s Airport Improvement Program (AIP). These grants will fund infrastructure projects, including ones that enhance airfield safety, modernize and upgrade taxiways, and prepare New York airports for winter. “Keeping our airports in top-notch shape is crucial to attracting business and tourism to Upstate New York. With winter approaching, it is more important than ever to ensure our airports are prepared for whatever winter storms come our way. I’m proud to deliver more than $33 million in federal funding to help our airports, from Elmira to Syracuse, invest in key safety upgrades and modernization efforts,” said Senator Schumer. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure and Jobs Law is continuing to help improvements at New York’s airports take off. I’ll always continue to fight to deliver federal resources to help our local economies reach new heights.”

“I am proud to announce more than $33 million in federal funding to improve airports across New York State,” said Senator Gillibrand, ranking member of the Senate Appropriations Transportation Subcommittee. “From expanded deicing pads that keep flights running safely during winter storms to essential snow removal equipment and runway upgrades, this new round of FY26 AIP grants will modernize airport infrastructure in communities statewide, enhancing reliability and travel efficiency for hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers. I will always fight to bring home the funding that our airports need to ensure safety and operate at the highest standard.”

The Elmira/Corning Regional Airport is getting $11,080,483. This grant funds phase 2, which consists of the construction of 3,250 feet. This project reconstructs 8,000 feet of existing Runway 6/24 lighting that has reached the end of its useful life. This grant funds phase 2, which consists of construction of 3,250 feet. This project rehabilitates 8,000 feet of existing paved Runway 6/24 to maintain the structural integrity and minimize foreign object debris to extend its useful life.

The Wellsville Airport is getting $1,619,172. This project rehabilitates 5,700 feet of existing paved Taxiway A to maintain the structural integrity of the pavement and to minimize foreign object debris to extend its useful life. This grant funds the final phase, which consists of construction.