AM 1480 WLEA News

March 7. 2026

FROM ST BONAVENTURE UNIVERSITY: St. Bonaventure head men’s basketball coach Mark Schmidt will retire at the conclusion of the 2025-26 season, he announced today after the Bonnies game with Davidson at Reilly Center.

“I’m a lucky guy. To be able to be the head coach at St. Bonaventure for 19 years is an honor,” Schmidt stated. “When I first got the job, I remember someone telling me I was going to be here for three or four years and then I was going to be selling insurance. I give Steve Watson and Sister Margaret Carney all the credit in the world that they took a chance on me 19 years ago. A guy who was 82-90 at Robert Morris and they allowed me to coach, they allowed us to build a program, and I think it was a pretty good one.”

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March 7, 2026

FROM REP NICK LANGWORTHY’S OFFICE: Congressman Nick Langworthy today called on the United States Senate to immediately pass legislation to reopen and fully fund the Department of Homeland Security following a reported bomb threat that forced a Southwest Airlines flight to make an emergency diversion on Friday night. Southwest Airlines Flight 2094, traveling from Nashville to Fort Lauderdale, was diverted to Atlanta after a security threat was reported onboard. Law enforcement officers boarded the aircraft upon landing and removed a passenger while frightened passengers were instructed to keep their hands raised during the incident. Federal authorities, including the FBI, are now investigating. “This incident is a powerful reminder that the threats facing our nation are real and require constant vigilance,” Congressman Langworthy said. “Every day, the men and women of the Department of Homeland Security work to protect our airports, our borders, and our communities from dangerous threats.” Rep. Langworthy noted that the House of Representatives has already passed legislation to fund DHS and ensure agencies like the Transportation Security Administration, Customs and Border Protection, and the Secret Service have the resources they need to keep Americans safe. “While TSA officers and other frontline personnel continue to show up and do their jobs under incredibly difficult circumstances, the Senate’s failure to act is unacceptable. National security should never be used as a political bargaining chip.” Congressman Langworthy urged the Senate to take immediate action to pass the House bill and fully reopen DHS. He concluded, “The safety of the American people must come first. The Senate should pass the House bill today and ensure the Department of Homeland Security has the funding and support it needs to protect our country.”

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March 7, 2026

FROM NYSP: The New York State Police arrested Cody B. Clemons, age 28, of Woodhull, NY, following the investigation of a domestic incident in the village of Painted Post. On February 28, 2026, at approximately 2:19 p.m., troopers responded to a report of a domestic disturbance at a residence on East High Street in Painted Post, Steuben County. An investigation determined that Clemons allegedly engaged in a physical altercation with a woman during a verbal dispute, during which he applied pressure to the victim’s neck, restrained her, and damaged her cell phone. Troopers also determined that the incident occurred in violation of an active order of protection. Troopers located Clemons a short distance away on North Hamilton Street in Painted Post and took him into custody without further incident. During a search of his person, Troopers discovered approximately 8.2 grams of suspected methamphetamine. Clemons was transported to SP Painted Post for processing.
Clemons was charged with:
Criminal Contempt 1st degree (E felony)
Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 7th degree (A misdemeanor)
Unlawful Imprisonment 2nd degree (A misdemeanor)
Criminal Mischief in the 4th Degree (A misdemeanor)
Criminal Obstruction of Breathing or Blood Circulation (A misdemeanor)
Following processing, Clemons was transported to the Steuben County Jail for CAP arraignment.

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March 7, 2026

FROM ALFRED VILLAGE POLICE: On March 6, 2026, at approximately 11:40 PM, the Alfred Village Police Department arrested 35-year-old Tyrone Young Jr. of Rochester, NY following a traffic stop on Glen Street in the Village of Alfred.
During the investigation, officers determined that Young was allegedly operating a vehicle without a valid driver’s license and was suspected of operating the vehicle while under the influence of drugs. Police report that Young attempted to flee on foot but was quickly taken into custody. A search incident to arrest allegedly revealed approximately 74 grams of cocaine, 38 grams of Molly (ecstasy), several oxycodone pills, and a quantity of marijuana. Officers also recovered scales and packaging materials at the scene. Young was processed and charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 2nd Degree (Class A-II Felony) and Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs. He was also issued several traffic citations, including failure to keep right, unlicensed operator, and failure to use a designated lane. Young was transported to the Allegany County Jail to await arraignment. The Alfred Police Department continues to investigate this incident, and additional charges may be filed at a later date. The Alfred Police Department was assisted by the Alfred University Police Department and the Alfred Fire Department.

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March 5, 2026

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (R, NY-24) says, if anyone has family stuck in the Middle East, to call this number: 315-236-7088. That is Tenney’s Oswego Office number. “If you dial that number, you’ll get patched through to our Washington D.C. office and we can try to help, if someone is stranded. We’ve been working with the State Department and others to facilitate getting American citizens back to the United States. We have been succesful on a number of cases that we’ve been working for out of our office,” Tenney tells WLEA News.

Tenney’s website is Tenney.House.Gov
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today provided an update on recent casework efforts to assist constituents located in the Middle East and shared important resources available to Americans abroad who may need assistance or guidance from the U.S. government.

At 9:30am Friday morning, Tenney put out the following statement: Rep. Tenney’s office has successfully helped dozens of constituents located overseas, including the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Kuwait, helping them navigate communications with the U.S. State Department and secure safe travel arrangements back home. Her office regularly works with federal agencies to help constituents obtain timely information, connect with embassy officials, and access the resources available to U.S. citizens abroad. “Helping constituents navigate urgent situations overseas is an important part of the work our office does every day,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “I am grateful our team was able to assist constituents in Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates and help ensure they were able to return home safely. For Americans currently abroad, the State Department offers several important resources that can provide guidance, updates, and support during emergencies. Our office will continue working closely with federal agencies to assist constituents and ensure that Americans traveling or living overseas have access to the information and help they need. We are grateful to the State Department, and our regional partners in the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Kuwait for their help getting Americans home safely.”

Americans currently overseas who need assistance or guidance from the U.S. government are encouraged to utilize the following resources:

State Department Crisis Intake Form – Used to notify the U.S. State Department and request assistance or information during emergencies abroad: https://mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) – Allows U.S. citizens abroad to register with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and receive important security alerts and updates: https://step.state.gov
Travel.State.gov – Americans traveling or living abroad should regularly monitor Travel.State.gov and communications from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for country-specific updates and safety guidance.

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https://rumble.com/v76mvzu-wlea-news-assemblyman-phil-palmesano-talks-at-energy-press-conference.html

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March 6, 2026

The 2026 St. Patrick’s Day Parade in the Maple City is Saturday March 14. Lineup will be on Genesee Street near Community Bank. The Parade will march down Seneca St. to Main St., ending at the Main Place. Line up begins at 10:30 with the parade stepping off at 11am. No need to register, just show up in your finest greens and join the fun!!! The St. Patrick’s Day Shuttle Bus will be running again this year from 1pm-10pm. This year, we will also have a shuttle connecting the Valley Bar and Grill, Racalto’s, and Bull’s Eye Saloon at Lot #3 (Center St. Parking Lot) with the City loop. Please see below for more information. Thank you to our local business for sponsoring this shuttle and to H.A.T. for coordinating the route and suppling the buses and drivers!

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March 5, 2026

FROM REP. NICK LANGWORTHY’S OFFICE: Congressman Langworthy today announced that he voted in favor of revealing the names of all members of Congress who have used the taxpayer-funded settlement fund to resolve sexual harassment claims against them.

The privileged resolution forced a vote by the full House that would reveal the identities of those who used the slush fund to settle claims for charges made against them by House employees, campaign staff, and lobbyists. Congress has reportedly paid out more than $17 million taxpayer dollars to quietly settle the cases.

Congressman Langworthy was one of only 65 members who voted to expose this information to the public. A majority of the 357 members instead voted to refer it to the House Ethics Committee, where the names would continue to be concealed. Congressman Langworthy, who is a member of the House Oversight Committee, also voted in the committee to subpoena the records and make them available to the public.

“It’s a disgrace and stain on the institution to have a secret taxpayer-funded slush fund to cover up sexual harassment by members of Congress,” said Congressman Langworthy. “I’m appalled that Congress is shielding the identities of abusers and using precious taxpayer dollars to silence their victims. I don’t care what Party you are in or what title you hold–I stand with the American people for transparency.”

Congressman Langworthy has made government accountability and transparency a top priority in Congress. He co-sponsors legislation to ban members from trading individual stocks and passed signature legislation that would create a centralized public database for executive branch financial disclosures.

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March 5, 2026

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March 5, 2026

FROM SENATOR CHUCK SCHUMER: “Kristi Noem has been fired. Good riddance. But the problems at DHS go much deeper than any one person. The President must rein in ICE and end the violence.”

FROM SENATOR GILLIBRAND: “It is unconscionable that Kristi Noem was nominated, let alone that she lasted this long. From the moment Kristi Noem was nominated, I made clear she was unfit and unqualified for the job. “She has been a total and complete failure. Under her failed leadership, DHS has threatened public safety, wasted countless taxpayer dollars, and lied to the American people, and two Americans were tragically murdered. Her actions betrayed the public’s trust and made families across our nation feel less secure. Changing leadership without structural reform only means more of the same – an agency without accountability, without discipline, and without regard for the safety of the American people. DHS needs more than just new leadership; it needs fundamental reforms to truly protect public safety and restore public trust.”

FROM CONGRESSMAN NICK LANGWORTHY: “I applaud the President’s announcement that he will appoint Senator Markwayne Mullin to lead the Department of Homeland Security. As a member of the Armed Services Committee where he serves on the subcommittees dealing with emerging threats and readiness, he brings a wealth of experience and management expertise that will allow him to seamlessly take the reins of this critical agency. His pending appointment is welcome news and now it’s time for Democrats to stop blocking funding to the department. There is no more important task than protecting Americans’ safety and keeping this agency shuttered during these volatile times is putting our nation at grave risk.”

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March 5, 2026

Steuben County Announces Closure and Reconstruction of Magee Road Bridge in Town of Hornellsville

Hornellsville, NY – Steuben County Commissioner of Public Works Eric Rose has announced the upcoming closure and reconstruction of the county bridge located on Magee Road over the Canisteo River in the Town of Hornellsville. Beginning March 16, 2026, the bridge between County Route 29 and Dineen Road will be closed to all through traffic for approximately 10 weeks to allow for a full bridge replacement project. The structure, identified as Bridge No. 17-28-01 (BIN 2217170), will be rebuilt with new concrete abutments and concrete deck beams to ensure long-term safety, reliability, and improved infrastructure for county residents. There will be no on-site detour during the closure. Motorists are advised to plan alternate routes in advance and allow additional travel time. Emergency services, local schools, and affected agencies have been notified.
“This project represents our continued commitment to maintaining and improving critical infrastructure throughout Steuben County,” said Commissioner Rose. “While we understand closures can be inconvenient, this investment will provide a safer and more durable crossing for residents and travelers for many years to come.” Steuben County appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation during construction.

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March 5, 2026

FROM SENATOR TOM O’MARA: “It should be hitting home for every policymaker about just how unaffordable and devastating this state has become for everyday New Yorkers, largely due to decisions, policies, and agendas coming out of Albany. That’s especially true when it comes to New York State’s direction on energy policy. Many of us have been saying it for years now. The ‘Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act’ as it was set in motion by Albany Democrats seven years ago is not affordable, feasible, or reliable. It has already delivered a heavy price tag for ratepayers and taxpayers, small businesses and manufacturers, school districts, farmers, and entire local economies. It is not achievable. It is not responsible or rational. It lacks critical foresight and common sense, and it unreasonably risks energy grid reliability and affordability. New Yorkers need relief from the CLCPA mandates now.”

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