Community Spotlight - Media One Radio Group (WWSE | WJTN | WHUG | WKSN | WQFX

Community Spotlight

Local Public Affairs Radio Program

Terry Frank

The Community Spotlight Local Public Affairs Program airs on all six of the Media One Radio Group radio stations. The Chautauqua County Executive appears the first week of each month and City of Jamestown Mayor appears the second week of each month. The other weeks of the month feature a variety of community leaders and special guests. The program airs on the following stations at the following times: WJTN - Saturday at 8:45 A.M. | WWSE - Sunday at 7:00 A.M. | WHUG & WKSN - Sunday at 6:30 A.M. | WQFX - Sunday at 5:30 A.M. | WKZA - Sunday at 6:00 A.M..

Community Spotlight

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Community Spotlight for Apr. 20-27, 2026

Rural Minds Founder and Chairman Jeff Winton

April 21st, 2026 12:00am | Duration: 15:50

This week... News Director Terry Frank is joined by the founder, and head of the national organization known as "Rural Minds" which is the only national, 501(c)3 organization that focuses solely on mental health equity. Winton says they represent not just farmers and ranchers, but, all 46-million people who live in rural parts of the United States. He says he started the group about 4-and-a-half years ago, after a family tragedy in which his nephew had committed suicide. Winton says no one knew or realized he was dealing with those issues because he seemed fine. He says he's optimistic though because the younger generations -- even those living in rural areas -- are more inclined to open up about their struggles. Winton says a lot of their work is based off of "storytelling," and using that to get people to talk about those struggles. We discuss efforts to get people to get over the stigma, and into help, which sometimes is hard to find in more isolated, and rural areas. We also talk about immediate help that's available at the national Suicide Help line at 988. The Rural Minds website is ruralminds.org.

Community Spotlight for Apr. 13-20, 2026

Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund

April 13th, 2026 12:00am | Duration: 14:58

Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund joins News Director Terry Frank this week to discuss several city matters... including the hiring of a new police chief. The City Council last week unanimously approved promoting Deputy Chief Scott Forster to the position, left open by the retirement of Tim Jackson. Ecklund says it was important for lawmakers to first approve eliminating the Public Safety Director's position from the Police Chief's position so Forster could be hired. Ecklund says the moves will allow the police and fire department's to have their own, autonomous chiefs, and will save the city money. We also discuss the further realignment of the police and fire departments with Acting Fire Chief Ryan Rousch. With that... she says some lieutenants have been acting battalion chiefs while they await formal training so moves can be made permanent. We also discuss the possible elimination of the city Fire Battalion Chief positions. The condition of city streets is also discussed with potholes being an issue in a few places... and, Ecklund also notes that the New York State Dept. of Transportation's total reconstruction of East Second Street from East Fourth to Tiffany Avenue in Falconer is now underway. East Second is also State Route 394 in the city.

Community Spotlight for Apr. 6-13, 2026

Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

April 7th, 2026 12:00am | Duration: 16:25

Our Terry Frank welcomes Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel back into the studio for the first time since early 2026 to spotlight a number of issues. First they discuss the county legislature's recent approval of 150,000 in Government Reduction Initiative funds for two merger or consolidation actions. One, for 100,000 will fully study a proposed merger of the Clymer, Sherman and Panama School Districts. All three have been losing enrollment, and spending will soon outpace revenues by about 2-million for each. Another 50,000 was approved for looking into ways to cuts costs for animal control in the north county town of Pomfret. Wendel also talks about delivering his annual "State of the County" Address -- this time -- at the CHQ Chamber of Commerce's annual "County Executive Breakfast" in Jamestown on Apr. 21 at the Doubletree Hotel We also discuss the county getting Jamestown Planning Commission approval of the final site plan for the new CHQ Transit Hub on East Third Street -- across from City Hall. Wendel hopes the project will be brought in for about 400,000, and will be up and running by this Fall. He also looks back on the recent Chautauqua Lake Symposium held at the Harbor Hotel in Celoron.

Community Spotlight for Mar. 29-Apr. 4, 2026

Deputy Chautauqua County Exec. for Economic Development Mark Geise

March 31st, 2026 12:00am | Duration: 15:15

This week... News Director Terry Frank speaks with Deputy Chautauqua County Executive Mark Geise about several topics, including the recent announcement that Refresco will no longer be taking Concord Grapes from local farmers -- due largely to the ongoing drop in demand. Geise says they are looking at three different places that could possibly take at least some of the grapes, including AgraAmerica in Fredonia... along with Westfield Made on Route 20... and the Grower's Co-Op -- just west of Westfield. County Executive P-J Wendel says they've also been talking to FeedMore Western New York about a deal to ship grapes to them for local food pantries. We also discuss the Industrial Development Agency's 2025 Annual Report... which showed a total of 10 projects the IDA supported with grant funding, and Payment in Lieu of Tax Agreements. He says they totaled about 85-million and created 639 jobs... nearly 600 of those temporary construction jobs. However... Geise says that 243 jobs were being retained. Many of those will be with Maplevale Farms... which agreed to stay in the area at a new facility being built in the Findley Lake area for nearly 42-million. He adds one project that was completed was the rebuilding of the White Inn in Fredonia... and a grand opening was held last year at the facility.

Community Spotlight for Mar. 22-29, 2026

Interviews from Chautauqua Sports Hall of Fame Induction Dinner

March 23rd, 2026 12:00am | Duration: 16:25

News Director Terry Frank lightens things up this week by featuring interviews with most of the newest eight members of the Chautauqua Sports Hall of Fame. They were were inducted in front of a packed house during last month's annual banquet at the Lakewood Rod-and Gun Club. Hall of Fame President Randy Anderson says the additions brings the total number inductees to 257. The Class of 2026 is high-light by several runners and former track-and-field stars. One is Marathoner Jennifer Giebner-Donato of Dunkirk... who calls it "amazing" to be inducted. Another runner was former New York State High School Cross-Country champion Brian Hull of Southwestern High School... who gave a lot of credit to his former High School Coach -- and fellow Hall of Famer -- Tom Priester. He also credited fellow runners, including late SWCS stand-out runner, Jerry Marra. Other inductees included: former Frewsburg softball and swimming stand-out Brianne Prince-Hazelton... who is still coaching at Forestville Central School, and took them to the state championships last year. Terry also spoke with the late Dr. Karl Englert's son and daughter about him being inducted for having won several regional golf championships... along with former track and field stand-out Trevor Hitchcock of Falconer -- who also played several other sports in high school. He also spoke with former Southwestern High School baseball pitching stand-out Kerry Kellogg from Lakewood. Kellogg was also a stand-out in college, and had a short, but, solid pro career in the minor leagues. The others included the late Dan Wolfe... who was an all-around athlete at the former Cardinal Mindszenty High School in Dunkirk... and Fredonia Wrestling stand-out Kenny Betts, who won a state championship back in the late 2000s.

Community Spotlight for Mar. 16-23, 2026

Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund

March 16th, 2026 12:00am | Duration: 14:30

Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund joins News Director Terry Frank to discuss her recent State of the City Address... which was meant to "fully-address" many of the day-to-day functions of city government, and what they do. Ecklund says she was able to focus on that moreso after her 2025 State of the City, which was about 98-pages, focused on trying to get the city out of it's recent budget mess. This year's address was about 40-pages, and goes into the city's economy, finances -- including received grant monies and efforts to improve housing, We also discuss the city's efforts to keep Gov. Kathy Hochul's proposal to give small and larger cities in NYS receive another 100-million in Temporary Municipal Aid... with Jamestown receiving about 1-million more. She says that would bring the city to about 1.6-million in total state aid. We also discuss moving the process along with finding a new police chief. She says city council has to first approve the elimination of the Public Safety Director/Police Chief position in the charter to make it just the Police Chief, with a separate Fire Chief. We also discuss the upcoming "Turn the River Green" Program for St. Patrick's Day on Saturday, March 14... and, the annual Easter Egg Hunt at the end of March.

Community Spotlight for Mar. 8-15, 2026

Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

March 9th, 2026 12:00am | Duration: 15:10

News Director Terry Frank speaks via telephone this week with Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel, who was in Washington, D.C. as part of local lobbying day with federal lawmakers. Wendel says it's a great opportunity to meet with the county's Congressional members, including local Congressman Nick Langworthy, and U.S Senator's Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand. He says their delegation will meet directly with Schumer, who is Senate Minority leader. Wendel says, among the subjects they would be discussing is support for development, along with work by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers work on studying Chautauqua Lake to find ways to improve water quality. We also discuss the county's upcoming, third-annual Chautauqua Lake Symposium, which will include Army Corps officials, along with representatives from the New York State Dept. of Environmental Conservation, and the Chautauqua Lake Watershed and Management Alliance's new director. We also discuss Gov. Kathy Hochul's proposed, 2026-27 budget... and, Wendel's concerns over what may be passed off to county's due to proposed federal cuts -- especially regarding Medicaid.

Community Spotlight for Mar. 2-9, 2026

NYS Senator George Borrello

March 3rd, 2026 12:00am | Duration: 15:05

This week, State Senator George Borrello joins our Terry Frank by phone to discuss multiple issues, including the recent inmate attack on two people at the Lakeview Shock Incarceration Facility in the town of Portland. Borrello calls it an unprovoked, and brutal attack on a woman who was teaching a class when the inmate attacked her, punching her several times, and shoving her so that her head struck a metal desk. A corrections officer also tried to intervene, but, he was also attacked and injured. Both were taken to local hospitals... and, he says it took six more COs to finally subdue the inmate. Borrello says it's time to repeal the state's HALT Act to allow inmate punishments for bad behavior. We also discuss his call for the state to have an independent analysis of New York's Medicaid rolls, because the comptroller has reported there are 8.5-million recipients geting at least some benefits, but, only 5.5-million are actually eligible. A third topic was Gov. Kathy Hochul's 30-day budget amendment to provide another 100-million in Temporary Municipal Assistance to several cities in the state... including 1.6-million to the city of Jamestown. He applauded that move, but, feels the legislature needs to do more to help local governments reduce their costs.

Community Spotlight for Feb. 22-28, 2026

Congressman Nick Langworthy press conference

February 24th, 2026 12:00am | Duration: 15:30

This week, News Director Terry Frank airs most of local Congressman Nick Langworthy's press conference in the town of Ellicott about 1-million he was able to obtain in the latest House Appropriation's Bill for the town's Fluvanna Water Extention project. The project would pipe better quality water from the city of Jamestown to the area located between the city line, and Townline Road in the town. Langworthy says the project is important because well water safety there is not good... with a survey of the wells showing about 40% of them have water that's not safe for consumption. He says it will help spur new development in that part of the town... and, also provide better water pressure for local fire departments. Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel also noted that improvements to the water supply will also assist with development of the Interstate 86 interchange with Strunk Road. Town Supervisor Janet Bowman thanked Langworthy on behalf of long-time residents who have asked for the project... which is currently in the design phase. Langworthy also talks about the partial government shut-down, which he blamed on Democrats and called "ridiculous" because it continues funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement, even with no funding for Homeland Security. We also ask about other matters... including whether he'll be announcing a run for re-election. He would only say that he's busy working for the 23rd Congressional District, and that will come in time.

Community Spotlight for Feb. 16-23, 2026

Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund

February 17th, 2026 12:00am | Duration: 15:00

Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund joins our Terry Frank this week to discuss a few issues... first of all being the recent cold weather snap in the area, and it's impact on local snowplowing crews. Ecklund says, so far, so good. The Public Works crews have been able to keep up... but, not all secondary roads are getting attention due to how busy they area, and just keeping up with the snowfall. The very recent warm-up has been a relief. Ecklund says they've been trying to limit their use of road salt as much as possible because of a 40% increase in costs. She says the problem is that they've been mixing some with water to create brine, and that can't always be used on side streets when it gets near zero... or colder. We also discuss the efforts to keep the Recovery Options Made Easy facility open on Washington Street as the city's main "Code Blue" shelter when temperatures drop below freezing. Thirdly... we also discuss the proposed state budget by Gov. Kathy Hochul. Ecklund says state aid is not being cut... but, adds there are no increases, even though the city's cost for materials, and other services, continue to increase.

Community Spotlight for Feb. 8-15, 2026

Jamestown School Superintendent Dr. Kevin Whitaker

February 9th, 2026 12:00am | Duration: 16:10

This week... News Director Terry Frank interviews Jamestown Public School Superintendent Dr. Kevin Whitaker with the spotlight on the recent recovery of a loaded handgun at Jamestown High School. Dr. Whitaker says their "levels of security" worked in finding and seizing the gun from a student's backpack inside a boy's restroom. However... he says it was a very unsettling situation. He says they have added a weapon's detection system that addresses the way the gun was snuck into the school. No one was hurt... and, the student, 18 year-old Narade Gumbs, Jr. was arrested on three Felony gun possession charges. We also discuss Gov. Kathy Hochul's recently released, 2026-27 state budget that includes 39.3-billion in school aid. Dr. Whitaker says the proposed does "fully fund" Foundation -- or basic -- Aid. However...he says the current formula still does not provide enough for very impoverished districts, like Jamestown's. At the same time, he says it does increase total aid to the district by 1.2-million, which he says is "better than zero." We also discuss how the district's been dealing with the recent bitterly cold snap, and, he says they've been able to avoid a large number of absences due to the flu and other illnesses.

Community Spotlight for Feb. 1-8, 2026

Part-Two with Librarians from the Chautauqua-Cattaraugus Library System

February 2nd, 2026 12:00am | Duration: 15:10

News Director Terry Frank continues this week with Part-Two of his program with four local librarians. Two are with the Chautauqua-Cattaraugus Library System "mothership..." Exec. Director Jan Dekoff, and Assistant Director L.J. Martin. Also on the panel are Prendergast Library Assistant Director, Jenn Champ... and, Hazeltine Library in Busti Dir. Katie Smith. We continue on with the positive impact having "Library Districts" have had on the local facilities... especially the Prendergast. We also talk about "Co-Central Libraries" of which the Prendergast and Olean are the two in the system. They are part of the state system as well... and, that allows them to receive some state funding... and, allows them to purchase more materials that can be shared with others, and hire additional staff, if needed. L.J. Martin also talks specifically about what they have to help those who are living in poverty, either in getting educational material or job information, ete. We also talk about library cards... and, if you have one with one of the system's libraries, that gives you access to all.

Community Spotlight for Jan. 25-31, 2026

Chautauqua-Cattaraugus Library System

January 26th, 2026 12:00am | Duration: 15:25

This week, News Director Terry Frank begins at two-part look at local libraries, and what they have to offer local residents, and students in the new year. Terry's joined by Chautauqua-Cattaraugus Library System Executive Dir. Jan Dekoff, and Assistant Director, L.J. Martin, Prendergast Library Assistant Director Jenn Champ... and, Hazeltine Library Director, Katie Smith. If this first part of the interview... they discuss the relevance of libraries in this age of Smartphones, the Internet, and Artificial Intelligence. Dekoff says the library system is made up of 36 total libraries... and, they head up the "umbrella organization" which provides the structure for the organization. She says among the entire system averages about 750 books being checked-out per day... and, if one library doesn't have a particular book at that moment, it can usually be found at another one, and, available within three days. Their library cards are also "universal," meaning they can be used at any of the 36 libraries. We also begin discussing the impact of having "Library Districts" that provide sustainable funding for several of the libraries. More on next week's program.

Community Spotlight for Jan. 18-25, 2026

Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund

January 20th, 2026 12:00am | Duration: 14:58

News Director Terry Frank welcomes in Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund for the first time in 2026 to discuss the past year... and, look forward to 2026. We first discuss the first City Council meetings of 2026, which includes four new councilmembers, and a new Council President. She told the newcomers to not be afraid to ask questions, and listen to how government operates, along with the "rules' of dealing with contract negotiations, and litigation. She adds the New York State Conference of Mayors also sends material to new lawmakers, and guides them to their website to also get answers. We also discuss New York Gov. Kathy Hochul's State of the State Address... and, the need to address Aid and Incentives to Municipalities -- also known at "AIM" which she says hasn't been increased in several years. However... she was happy to see the governor say she would like to see a review and update of "antiquated" language in state laws and regulations. We also discuss the coming year... with Congressman Nick Langworthy's announcement of securing 1.25-million in federal funding to deal with flooding issues in maintenance channels along the outlet for the Chadakoin River. We also discuss potential new development coming in the new year.

Community Spotlight for Jan. 11-18, 2026

Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

January 12th, 2026 12:00am | Duration: 14:59

Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel is host Terry Frank's first in-studio guest of 2026... and, they discuss a number of topics -- including calling on residents to find the best price to pay for gasoline. Wendel says the situation with prices being stuck at 3.39 to 3.40 a gallon for regular, unleaded gas the past several months. However... the prices are a good bit lower in areas along the State Thruway... and in northern Chautauqua County. He's urging people to put the lowest prices on his Facebook page to put pressure on Kwik Fill and Crosby's mini-marts. It seemed to be working because prices Monday ranged more from 3.29 to 3.35 a gallon. We also discuss a New York state grant of 17.7-million to help complete Phase-3 of the project -- which has a total cost of about 32-million. We also discuss the new operator coming into the County Airport near Jamestown. He says a lot of what's needed is already in place for the owner-operator of Archie's Airport Restaurant. We also talk about the passing of recently retired County Clerk Larry Barmore, who died after a courageous battle with Cancer the past two years at age 74.

Community Spotlight for Jan. 4-11, 2026

2025 Local Year in Review

January 5th, 2026 12:00am | Duration: 14:58

Happy New Year everyone! News Director Terry Frank this week hosts Community Spotlight's annal "Year in Review" program... which highlights the Top 10 to 12 stories of the past 12 months. He begins with the 100th anniversary of Media One Radio Group station WJTN-AM... which first went on the air on New Year's Eve of 1924 at the Grand Opening of the new Hotel Jamestown building. Archie Newton was the original owner, but, sold the station a few years later. Also highlight was the NYS Department of Corrections and Community Service -- or DOCCS strike -- by thousands of state corrections officers... which was resolved in mid-March. However... a couple of thousand did not return, or we fired. We also highlight crime stories -- including the death of Jamestown man shot and killed with a crossbow. Earlier in the year... there was the local trial of Hadi Matar... who tried to kill Author Salman Rushdie at Chautauqua Institution. Rushdie himself took the stand. We also highlight the officer-involved death of a Mina man during a confrontation with police... the reopening of Fredonia's historic White Inn. Our top story is issues surrounding Chautauqua Lake due to new state wetland regulations, a big problem with weeds during the boating season, and a change at the top of the Chautauqua Lake Association.

Community Spotlight for Dec. 29, 2025-Jan. 3, 2026

Jamestown Board of Public Utilities' General Manager Dave Leathers

December 30th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 16:15

This week, News Director Terry Frank concludes our 2025 guest interviews with retiring Jamestown Board of Public Utilities' General Manager Dave Leathers. Leathers says he's working to finish up projects he's involved with at the BPU before his final day on Jan. 23, 2026. He was pleased that the board has now approved 2026 budgets for all five divisions... two of which will have no rate increases. The other three will, he says, led by District Heat... which had a 10% increase that took effect last Nov. 1. In addition... a 7.5% increase was approved by the board for all Water Division customers. The final increase, which needs to be approved by the New York state Public Service Commission, is for a just under 10% increase in electric rates. Leathers says that was approved for submission by the board last Summer. As for his retirement after 17 years at the helm... Leathers says he's pleased with where the BPU has seen improvement -- mainly along the lines of safety for employees, and the general public. He says he enjoyed the job because of the public service the BPU provides it's customers. He also says that Deputy GM Kris Sellstrom, who will replace him in January, is a "very capable manager" who he feels will do well in the position.

Community Spotlight for Dec. 18-27, 2025

St. Susan's Center Exec. Dir. Cherie Rowland, and Holiday Haul Organizer, Dan Keefe

December 18th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 17:45

We're putting the show on-line early this week because Thurs., Dec. 18, is the start of the 13th annual Community Holiday Haul in Jamestown to benefit the St. Susan's Center and it's mission to feed the hungry. St. Susan's Executive Director Cherie Rowland, and Haul Organizer, Dan Keefe join our Terry Frank to discuss the drive's objective, and how residents can help out. The event is being held a little later this year, according to Keefe to coincide more with the holiday season. It's running today (Thurs.) Dec. 18 through Sat., Dec. 20, 2025. Hours at the Jamestown Cycle Shop parking lot will be 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. both Thursday and Saturday, and from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 20. Keefe says a pre-haul drive at Cummins' Jamestown Engine Plant helped to jump start the effort in November, bring in thousands of pounds of food and several thousand dollars in cash. Residents can stop by anytime during the hours listed to bring non-perishable food items, or monetary donations to St. Susan's. Rowland says the need remains great in the community, even though SNAP benefits have resumed after the government shut-down. The monetary donations are important because that allows them to by perishable items they need right away like milk. For more information... contact the St. Susan's Center at (716) 664-2253.

Community Spotlight for Dec. 14-21, 2025

Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund

December 15th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 14:58

News Director Terry Frank speaks with Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund, who just signed the city's amended, just over 45-million budget for 2026. Ecklund says the spending plan includes an additional 348,000 projected in sales tax revenue... and, significant reductions in the amount of health insurance, and retirement costs Jamestown will pay next year. The final budget includes a 5.5% tax increase... as opposed to the original increase of 7.5%. It also uses 60% of the savings to be put back into the undesignated fund balance... with the other 40% for tax reduction. Ecklund that was the best they could do for next year's spending plan because of the amount of fund balance used in 2023 and 2024. We also discuss city officials recently making a 15-minute presentation on the city's proposed 2025 Downtown Revitalization Initiative for the coming year. Ecklund says the proposal for the 10-million grant is titled, "Core to Shore" referring to the downtown area to the McCrea Point boat landing area. She says the reuse of the former Furniture Mart building, and putting a new roof on the Fenton History Center, are among the projects being considered. We also discuss housing, and efforts to provide shelter for the homeless this Winter.

Community Spotlight for Dec. 8-15, 2025

Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

December 9th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 15:45

Chautauqua Co. Executive P.J. Wendel joins News Director Terry Frank to discuss a number of topics... including moving ahead with an amended and boosted Government Reduction Initiative program. Wendel held a virtual conference meeting with local government leaders about the program, and about how they may be able to reduce their local government, taxing district, school district or other entities. He says that would also include merging fire departments -- like what has been done with the new, North Chautauqua Lake Fire District. The money to help with upfront costs is being set at 500,000 and grants of up to 100,000 will be available. Wendel adds a number of localities are already looking at merger/consolidation projects. With the early onset of Winter weather... we also discuss how the county is set for the snowplowing and treating of roads through late Winter in March and April. We also discuss action allowing a multi-use (inc. housing) project at the former Welch's building in Westfield. He says it's part of the county's efforts to support adding 400 more housing units soon.

Community Spotlight for Dec. 1-8, 2025

The Salvation Army of Jamestown's Major Kim Merchant

December 2nd, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 12:40

Our Terry Frank welcomes Major Kim Merchant from The Salvation Army of Jametown this week to talk about the start to their annual Red Kettle Campaign. The major says the campaign actually began the day after Veteran's Day -- Nov. 12 -- to get a head start on the effort to raise 115,000 for their food pantry, domestic violence, and other programs for the next year. Merchant adds that the Dunkirk Salvation Army has set a goal of 55,000. She adds they still need many volunteers in both cities so they don't have to hire people to man the kettles, which she says cuts into the amount of money they can raise. As for the food pantry... she says says they had a big surge in the number of people needing their help during the recent federal government shut-down. Merchant says they usually start holding up on distributing non-perishable food items in October so they have enough during the holidays. However... they needed much more during the shut-down. They usually have about 300 people a month they need to help... but, that number grew to over 500. We also talk about the Salvation Army's annual "Angel Tree" program to provide gifts for children from needy families. For more information about the Red Kettle Campaign, or to volunteer, call them at (716) 664-4108.

Community Spotlight for Nov. 23-30, 2025

Robert H. Jackson Center Executive Director Kristan McMahon

November 25th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 15:15

This week... News Director Terry Frank welcomes Robert H. Jackson Center Executive Director Kristan McMahon to the program for the first time in-studio. The focus of discussion is the year-long celebration of the 80th anniversary of the start of the first Nuremburg War Crimes trial... which Robert Jackson was lead prosecutor of. The anniversary actually begin on Nov. 21, We also discuss the recently released movie, "Nuremburg" which brings the history of the trials to light. Russell Crowe portraits Nazi war criminal, Herman Goering... and, Remi Malek was the psychologist brought in to access the mental capacities of the war criminals. One of the major events coming up is a viewing of the "Nuremburg" movie, and discussion with the author of the book "The Nazi and the Psychiatrist," Jack El Hy. McMahon says he was also a consultant for the movie. She says they have partnered with a number of organizations to put on a series of events that include a virtual tour of the courtroom. For a full listing of events, and programming... you can go on-line to www.roberthjackson.org.

Community Spotlight for Nov. 16-23, 2025

Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund

November 18th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 14:58

Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund joins News Director Terry Frank for this weekend's program regarding the city's 2026 budget, and other matters. On the budget, the mayor highlights the public hearing to be held on Monday night, Nov. 17, at 6 p.m., noting that no amendments had been offered yet by City Council members, so her original proposal of 45.5-million with a 7.5% tax increase is the spending plan to be discussed. She did say that third-quarter sales tax revenues had been received, and helped to put the city over projections of a 2% increase. (That was later updated to a 7.5% increase in that area, so leaders are looking at increasing the anticipated amount by 300,000 for 2026) We also discuss an increase in the long-term parking fees from 300 to 600 annually to encourage more use of the city's parking ramps following safety and security upgrades. We also discuss the city's annual Christmas Tree being brought to Tracy Plaza... but, a day later (Nov. 14) due to windy conditions. The 40-foot tall Douglas Fir was harvested from a lot owned by the Messina family on Sampson St., and will be lit the night of the annual Christmas Parade on Sat., Dec. 6.

Community Spotlight for Nov. 10-17, 2025

Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

November 11th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 15:20

Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel joins our Terry Frank this week to discuss a number of topics... but, namely Election Night, and his big re-election victory. Wendel says he's honored to again serve another full-term. However... this term will only be for three-years... not four... because of the change in New York state election law moving most local elections to even years with most state and federal races. He was disappointed that Legislature Republicans lost two seats in the Nov. 4 vote... cutting the GOP majority from 14-to-5 to 12-to-7. We also discuss his short and long-term goals... which include finishing the sewer extension on the westside of Chautauqua Lake... and, completion of the new, "shovel-ready" industrial site in the town of Ripley. There are also projects to expand the South County Industrial Park near Jamestown... and, the one in the north county. We also discuss the upcoming special meeting of the County Legislature regarding help for local food pantries with the recent pause in Supplimental Nutrition Assistance Program. He says the county is fairly limited in what it can do because, legally, they cannot fund SNAP with county monies.

Community Spotlight for Nov. 2-9, 2025

Deputy Chautauqua County Exec. for Economic Development Mark Geise

November 3rd, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 15:05

News Director Terry Frank talks by phone this week with Deputy Chautauqua Co. Executive for Economic Development, and Industrial Development Agency Chief Executive Officer Mark Geise, to get an update on several projects and proposals. A couple of programs were recently discussed during County Executive debates... one of them being outcomes of the county's two on-line recruitment tools, LiveCHQ and ChooseCHQ. Geise says both websites have gotten hundreds of looks from people looking to either move their family, or business to the county. He says the websites helped in recruiting new doctors to the region. He also updates the status of new "shovel-ready" industrial sites in Ripley, and the South County Industrial Park near Falconer, where work is progressing well. Geise says he did talk with the Ripley supervisor about the recent State of Emergency for water conservation... and, he says that was a "once-in-50 year" situation that should not impact water availability to that location. We also talk about a report by the Policy Institute of New York that confirms that New York state's taxing and regulatory structure make doing business here difficult.

Community Spotlight for Oct. 27-Nov. 1, 2025

United Way of Chautauqua County Executive Dir. Amy Rohler

October 28th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 14:59

This week... our Terry Frank gets an update on the current United Way of Chautauqua County General Campaign from Director Amy Rohler. The annual effort... which has a 2025 goal of 1.7-million has been underway for just over a month... and, has already taken off under Co-Chairpersons Andy and Lisa Goodell. Rohler says they both have strengths that can aid the campaign greatly, and, with Andy Goodell now retired as a State Assemblyman, he can devote the time to the effort. Rohler says they have already made a large number of in-person, workplace presentations about the United Way... it's member agencies... and, their "community impact." She says that's a big part of what they try to do with their allocations process. This past year... she says that total impact totaled just over 1.48-million. She says about 15% of the money raised is used for local administrative costs. The funding also benefits the United Way's own programs... including their 2-1-1 referral service... and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program that allows lower income residents to have their income taxes for free. To learn more about the campaign... you can call the United Way at 483-1561.

Community Spotlight for Oct. 20-27, 2025

Brian Papalia and Amanda Sublett of the Chautauqua County Humane Society

October 22nd, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 14:59

We lighten the mood a bit this week as Brian Papalia and Amanda Sublett of the Chautauqua County Humane Society join our Terry Frank to discuss a couple of upcoming fund-raisers for the local shelter. We also discuss Amanda's new position at CCHS, which is Community Outreach and Education Coordinator. She says she is looking to work with people in the community at schools, homes, and worksites about what they offer, and educate them on approaching and dealing with a pet. We also discuss this past Saturday's "Pet Expo '25," at the Northwest Arena in Jamestown. Papalia -- who is long-time head of communications with CCHS -- says it's the first time that all local pet and animal shelters and businesses are taking part in such and event. More than 60 vendors took part... and, there were a number of dog and pet demonstration... including one with the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office K-9 Unit. We also discuss the Sat., Oct. 25 "Meowsquerade Ball: Mystery of the 13 Black Cats" at Wicked Warrens in downtown Jamestown. Both say tickets for that event have been going fast. Sublett says that event began small, but, has grown into a pretty significant event to draw attention to their spay and neuter program. They also discuss the Humane Society's efforts to work with people in the community if they're having difficulty keeping their pet, or if they feel it's time to surrender that pet, or pets. Their phone number is (716) 665-2209... and their website is chqhumane.org.

Community Spotlight for Oct. 13-20, 2025

Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund

October 14th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 14:58

Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund joins our Terry Frank this week to discuss mainly two topics; the first being her proposed, 45.5-million, 2026 budget plan. Ecklund says there are a number of factors driving up costs for the city... including inflation, along with increasing state retirement costs, along with insurance and other costs. She adds it will also use just over 3.3-million from the undesignated fund balance... reducing that amount by more than half. The tax increase is 7.5%, with a 2.01 increase in the tax rate per 1,000 assessed value. She adds there are also some employee salary increases. However... she adds that revenues are fairly stagnant, with some significant losses in the tax base. She adds they are also no changes in state aid, which has been unchanged for many years. We also discuss next year's major NYS Dept. of Transportation reconstruction of East Second St., and what kind of access people will have to the 35 businesses along that busy street. Ecklund says there will be a plan laid out by the DOT, and they will work with Acting City Public Works Director Mark Roetzer on that.

Community Spotlight for Oct. 5-12, 2025

Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

October 6th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 15:30

Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel joins News Director Terry Frank to discuss his tentative, 309.7-million dollar, 2026 budget proposal. Wendel says it includes a 54-cent per 1,000 assessed value tax rate decrease... but, adds it does include a 1.7-million dollar tax levy increase. He says that's due mainly to an 11.2%-increase in market value of homes in the county. He says some people have wanted to return to the area... and, some are second-home. Wendel says there's only one added employee (a probation officer), which is required by New York state... so some unfunded mandates are pushing an increase in that levy. He says the legislature has already completed it's first budget meetings, and there was a tentative, 50,000 dollar reduction in the Social Services budget with a reduction in overtime costs. He calls it a "solid budget." In addition... we talk about the need to take "down the temperature" in our political discourse. Wendel adds that, he was part of a private meeting with New York Governor Kathy Hochul that included six state Republicans (including him), and six Democrats. He says it's important not to overstate things like saying "we're at war" with another political party.

Community Spotlight for Sept. 28-Oct. 4, 2025

Democratic candidate for Chautauqua County Executive, Tom Carle

September 30th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 15:45

This week... News Director Terry Frank continues our two-part look at the candidates for Chautauqua County Executive with an interview with Democratic challenger Tom Carle of Fredonia. Carle is a Binghampton, NY native, who moved to the area with his wife in 2018 because she is a native of Chautauqua County. Carle says... at his wife's prompting... he decided he wanted to use his talents to run for the county's top-elected office. Carle says he had labor, human resources, and business restructuring experience in the private sector. He says he's been brought into companies to help them save millions of dollars by help to reduce expenses. Carle believes county government has grown too much, having added 200 employees the past several years... while the county's population has been cut by about 14,000 the past two decades or so. Carle adds that he believes cutting all taxes... not just the property tax rate... is needed to bring more people and jobs to the county. He says that's why he supported lowering both the tax levy -- or amount to be raised by taxes, along with the sales tax from 8% to 7.5%. He adds the county needs to do a better evaluation of the need to have two airports, and, more common sense in dealing with the weed and algal bloom issues on Chautauqua Lake.

Community Spotlight for Sept. 21-28, 2025

Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

September 23rd, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 15:55

We begin a look at the two candidates running for Chautauqua County Executive, P.J. Wendel, who is running for another, full four-year term as the county's top-elected official. Our Terry Frank asks about a number of issues, including the local economy -- in particular -- with the recent news of the closing of Serta-Simmons Mattress in the south county industrial park. Wendel says the county tried to contact Serta after they heard of the possibility, but, they did not respond. He says "we need to get our workforce activated..." because there are at least several hundred "good paying jobs" currently available. However... he says some of those pay the same as entry level retail jobs. As for getting people to come to, or back to, Chautauqua County... Wendel says there are anecdotal stories about people coming back to the region. However... he says there's also a lot of negativity on-line and elsewhere in the area. The county's current population is between 125,000 to 127,000. He agrees the county government workforce has gone up in recent years... but, those costs have been covered by grants and other revenues streams outside of taxes. He says they have increased numbers due to Medicaid needs, and the new Fly-Car program. We also discuss property taxes, and the future of the Jamestown Airport.

Community Spotlight for Sept. 14-21, 2025

Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund

September 15th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 15:10

Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund joins our Terry Frank for this week's program to discuss several topics... including where she is in the process of developing her proposed, 2026 budget plan. Ecklund says it's still "a work in progress," noting that there are still a number of unknowns in the spending plan... including what kind of state and federal aid is going to be available, where sale tax revenues are going to be, and the final outcome of some employee contract negotiations. Her tentative budget is due on or about Oct. 8, with City Council having to adopt a final spending plan by Dec. 1. She adds that a state mandate now requiring the city to hire part-time matrons for the city jail will be another added expense without state funding. We also discuss a new road project on Foote Avenue from the Washington St. Bridge to the city line with the town of Kiantone. Ecklund says it's a basic mill-and-pave project that should be done by late this week. We also discuss the city's new noise and quality of life ordinance... and, the announcement that Serta Simmons Mattress will be shutting down operations by Oct. 31... and, 80 people will be losing their jobs. She said it's sad, but, likely due more to what's going on nationally.

Community Spotlight for Sept. 7-14, 2025

Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

September 9th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 14:59

Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel joins News Director Terry Frank this week to discuss several issues... mainly regarding his budget presentation coming up Sept. 24. Wendel says the 2026 spending plan is pretty much set to go, but, they are also waiting to hear about a state meeting with local Social Service Directors about where the state is going for 2026... and, 2027. He says Medicaid funding, with cuts expected from the federal government, will be going down the next couple of years... as recipients not deemed to be eligible, are cut from the program. Wendel says there's also concern about reductions to the Home Energy Assistance Program -- otherwise known as HEAP. We also discuss the approval of three smaller contracts in the Sheriff's Dept., which means all of the county's employee contracts are set for the coming year, and beyond. He also addresses a concern from one lawmaker that the legislature should have been able to learn more about the contracts in closed session before the vote. He says they can get the additional information by talking with his administration. We also discuss the impact of the closing of another skilled nursing and rehab facility with Absolut of Westfield confirming it's closing it's doors on or about Oct. 31. We also discuss improved conditions on Chautauqua Lake with stepped up weed harvesting and other steps being taken.

Community Spotlight for Aug. 24-31, 2025

Jamestown Board of Public Utilities' Deputy General Manager for the Electric Div., Kris Sellstrom

August 25th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 15:40

There's no in-studio guest on the program this week... but, News Director Terry Frank has in-depth comments from Jamestown Board of Public Utilities' Deputy GM, Kris Sellstrom, about the project to bring "open-access, high-speed Internet to the electric division's service territory, which includes the city, Falconer, West Ellicott and Celoron. Sellstrom says the project is well underway, with 321 utility poles already in place. He adds that the city had been awarded a nearly 30-million grant from the New York State "ConnectAll" program to build an open-access, fiber-optic broadband network. Sellstrom said they are working with EntryPoint Networks and Quanta Telecom Solutions on getting the high-speed Internet boxes and hook-ups in place. He says pretty much all the fiber has now been hung in the Hall and Newland Avenues areas. Underground infrastructure is also being installed in at least one area. Sellstrom says the BPU will own and operate the fiber network... and, it will be "open-access" meaning that customers will have a variety of Internet providers to chose from. He says construction of the network is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. Sellstrom made the presentation to the City Council at last week's work session. The project focuses on providing affordable and reliable internet, with projected monthly costs of just over 50 for 300 Mbps and 65 for 2 Gbps.

Community Spotlight for Aug. 18-25, 2025

Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund

August 19th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 14:50

Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund joins our Terry Frank for this week's program to discuss her budget proposal... and, provide more information about the upcoming, 45th anniversary, 13 year-old Babe Ruth World Series. On the budget... Ecklund says City Comptroller Ericka Thomas has begun more detailed discussions with department heads about their needs, and their projected spending plans for 2026. She's hoping to avoid another major tax increase that was avoided for the current year because of use of additional American Rescue Plan Act funding... and more being used from the city's undesignated fund balance. The budget is due out on or about Oct. 8. On the Babe Ruth World Series, Ecklund was excited to again say that all eight-days of the tournament are sponsored -- meaning that admission for all games will be free. She adds that the day on Sun. Aug. 17, is being sponsored by the family of Ed Garfinkle, who was head coach of Jamestown's host team entry in the first World Series in 1980. Garfinkle passed away at age 87 late last year. The World Series runs through Sat. Aug. 23. We also discuss the annual Labor Day Festival coming up on Sun.. Aug. 31 at Bergman Park. She says activities begin at 12 Noon. There will be plenty of bands and groups performing. The presentation of the annual George Ritzer Labor Award will take place at 4 p.m., and fireworks will conclude the day at dusk.

Community Spotlight for Aug. 11-18, 2025

Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

August 11th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 15:30

News Director Terry Frank talks with Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel about several matters, including the recent visit by the Swedish Ambassador to the United States, Urban Ahlin, who spent about a day-and-a-half in the county and city of Jamestown. It was Ahlin's first visit to the county, and city -- which has a large Swedish-Scandinavian American population. Wendel says part of the tour he was on to see local manufacturers with ties to Sweden was highlighted by Ahlin's keen interest in relations between management, and labor. We also discuss the county and SUNY College at Fredonia agreeing to issue a request for proposals to develop a forensic crime lab to allow local police to get lab results quicker... and, provide a new study program for the college itself. Wendel also introduces us to the new County Airports Manager, John Machemer, who's just taken over at the Jamestown and Dunkirk Airports. He says, if the county is unable to get Essential Air Service restored to Jamestown... they'll begin looking into a new General Service Air program. We also discuss the condition of Chautauqua Lake, which has improved in recent weeks, but, still has troublesome weed issues.

Community Spotlight for Aug. 3-10, 2025

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York

August 5th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 15:45

Our Terry Frank had no studio guest this week... but, we air most of a virtual press conference hosted by U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York... mainly about her push to renew the Kay Hagan Tick Act... which puts federal resources to work on better diagnosis and treatment of tick-borne diseases. Gillibrand says there's been an alarming increase in the number of Lyme Disease cases in New York from 2,200 in 2020 to more than 22,000 in 2023. The Democratic lawmaker believes there are two reasons for the increase. She notes that one is changes in Climate, in which there were relatively mild Winters during that time period... and, a lot of ticks survived the Winter months. The other is improvements in the medical field in diagnosing and treating tick-borne diseases. Hagan, a former North Carolina Senator, contracted Lyme in 2019, and died a short time later. Gillibrand says she's also had a tick-borne illness, so this measure is personal to her. She says there is bi-partisan support for the measure. She also discusses Democratic strategy for the upcoming mid-terms, and a Senate bill against stock trading by members of Congress.

Community Spotlight for July 28-Aug. 1, 2025

National Comedy Center Exec. Director Journey Gunderson

July 29th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 16:20

We preview the upcoming Lucille Ball Comedy Festival in Jamestown with National Comedy Center Executive Dir. Journey Gunderson. Our Terry Frank starts off with recent news that the peformance by well-know Comedian Jon Stewart on Sat. Aug. 9 at the Northwest Arena is a sell-out. Gunderson says they tried to get a second show with Stewart -- knowing the one show would sell-out quickly -- but, Stewart no longer does two shows in one day. We also discuss the availability of tickets for most of the other 50-plus events during the Aug. 7-10 festival. One is an additional "Stand-Up Showcase" with five up-and-coming talents... and, another is the showcase already scheduled with Bill Murray and his "Blood Brothers' Band on Sun. Aug. 10 at the Northwest Arena at 5 p.m. She adds there are also tickets for the Saturday Night Live 50th anniversary season program with SNL's Head Writer Streeter Seidel at 2 p.m. on Sunday, the 10th. For more information about the headliners, and approximately 50 other events, go on-line to www.ComedyCenter.org.

Community Spotlight for July 20-27, 2025

Gerry Rodeo Chairman Tom Atwell, and Spokesman Paul Cooley

July 21st, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 15:35

News Director Terry Frank previews the upcoming Gerry Rodeo this week with Chairman Tom Atwell, and long-time Spokesman Paul Cooley. This year is special because it's the 80th annual Rodeo at the grounds off Route 60 -- just south of the four-corners in Gerry. The Rodeo begins on Wed. July 30 and continues for four-straight nights through Sat., Aug. 2, with each night's performance beginning at 8 p.m. Atwell says the rodeo is the only fund-raiser for the Gerry Volunteer Fire Dept, and they're used the proceeds in the past to help purchase new turn-out gear, and other equipment for the fire department. This year, he says they'll be using the funds to add onto the fire hall to create more room for their fire trucks. Cooley notes that each night, beginning at 5 p.m. they'll be serving their famous beef barbecue dinners. However, they will not be doing the combo dinners this year, and tickets will be sold for a specific night, Wed., Thurs., Fri. or Saturday with the Friday and Saturday shows costing a little more. Presale tickets will save you 10-percent on the cost, and will be available at www.gerryrodeo.org. Thursday will be Military and First Responder Night with 10 tickets available at the Rodeo Office only.

Community Spotlight for July 13-20, 2025

Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund

July 14th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 15:05

Our Terry Frank interviews Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund this week on a number of topics, including the latest on the emergency repairs to a lengthy section of East Second Street -- also State Route 394 -- in the city. The emergency repairs, according to Ecklund, started about a month late due to lack of availability of a milling machine, and inclement weather in the Spring. However, the work is underway with much of the patching and paving work in the westbound lane, and there was milling and some paving on the eastbound side. That was completed Monday, and should hold until next year's complete replacement. We also get an update on the vandalism issue around city parks and other public spaces. Financially for the first-half of 2025, Ecklund says the city is holding it's own -- but, says they'll have a better handle on that once second-quarter sales tax figures come in. We also discuss the start of budget work, and those efforts with City Comptroller, Ericka Thomas. We also discuss Summer time activities with the annual Yassau!Festival being held last month, and the St. James Italian and Scandinavian Folk Festivals coming up. We also learn that day sponsorships for the upcoming Babe Ruth World Series have been completed, so that there is free admission to all the games coming up at Diethrick Park on Aug. 16-23.

Community Spotlight for July 6-13, 2025

Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

July 8th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 15:55

Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel joins our Terry Frank to discuss a number of issues heading into the long, 4th of July holiday period. We talk about travel and the fact there was a fatal motorcycle crash in the town of Kiantone earlier in the week... and, there was another fatal a short time before that, along with a fatality on Chautauqua Lake, and another drowning on Lake Erie. Wendel notes that being in the fire service himself for 30-plus years, he's seen his share of bad accidents, and he can't emphasize the need to be safe enough. We also talk about the status of the project to locate a new hub for the county's CHQ Transit System... which he says is still on hold. However... he says they're looking at getting a pre-fab building constructed, and moved into the location. We also discuss the current conditions on Chautauqua Lake, with the 4th of July on us, which Wendel called "very disappointing." He says the main problem is weed cutting started later than anticipated, and Chautauqua Lake Association crews are trying to catch up.

Community Spotlight for June 29-July 5, 2025

New York State Assemblyman Andrew Molitor

July 2nd, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 15:30

This week, our Terry Frank speaks with first-term NYS 150th District Assemblyman, Andrew Molitor, to review the just completed 2025 state legislative session. First we discuss the push by Gov. Kathy Hochul to develop a zero-emission, micro nuclear generation station in the upstate region -- and mostly likely in Western New York. Both Molitor, State Senator George Borrello, and Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel are each pushing hard for using the vacant, former NRG plant in Dunkirk. Molitor says the micro-nuclear idea is more 10 to 15 years out... and, he says the push initially will involve repowering the NRG Plant with natural gas. Discussions are preliminary at this point. As for the 254-billion, 1015-26 budget, Molitor says the big reason it was just over a month-late is that only the governor, Assembly Speaker, and Senate Majority Leader -- all Democrats -- could not agree on mainly policy to bring the budget in on-time. Until the process changes and policy is allowed to be proposed and debated in the open, policy will continue to drag out discussions. We also discuss a couple of bills that he's presented for consideration... including a new effort to replace current bail reform. We also talk about taking part in his first-ever state legislative session, and he says he never realized how important the legislature is to most aspects of life in the state.

Community Spotlight for June 22-29, 2025

Jamestown School Superintendent Dr. Kevin Whitaker

June 23rd, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 14:59

Our Terry Frank spoke with Jamestown School Superintendent Dr. Kevin Whitaker just in front of last Friday night's JHS Commencement for the Class of 2025. They talk about the graduating class as the second group to have graduated after the COVID-19 pandemic hit. This group began their Freshman year on hybrid schedules, having to be in class only a couple of days a week, and doing on-line studies the other days. However... Dr. Whitaker says they accomplished a lot both academically and on the athletic fields and arenas. We also discuss the protocals with new security measures in place at Chautauqua Institution... which began it's new season the following morning, on June 21. Aaron Leeper, who is a member of the JHS Class of 2001... was to be the keynote speaker for graduation. Whitaker says he's a member of the U.S. Air Marshall's Office. As for graduation rates... Dr. Whitaker says they are getting closer to pre-COVID numbers... and, he adds it's a more confusing process than it used to be. We also discuss the on-going capital projects going on in the schools... namely the high school. However... he says they are progressing with little or no interruption. We also talk about school registration for the new year, starting on July 1.

Community Spotlight for June 9-16, 2025

Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

June 10th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 15:25

Our Terry Frank welcomes back Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel for his monthly visit to talk about some fairly timely issues. The first was the recent presentation by Sheriff Jim Quattrone and officials with LaBella Associates of a nearly 120-million, County Jail rehabilitation project that would include tearing down the old, 1939 section of the jail, which has fallen into disrepair. Wendel says it's a struggle right now to maintain it, and he says there's the matter of the cost. He says there was a proposal under former Sheriff Joe Gerace to do a 5-million project several years ago. However, lawmakers decided against that and the costs has grown with steel prices way up... along with others due to the pandemic and other issues. We also discuss the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities' annual "Retool '25" event that featured NYS Energy Research and Development Agency Director Kevin Hale. He says he wanted to hear what Hale had to say about micro nuclear power plants... something they're looking at doing with the former NRG Power Plant. Wendel also talks about the retirement of county Industrial Development Agency Chief Financial Officer Rich Dixon, which he calls a big loss. He says Dixon is well-liked, and a person who didn't take "no" for an answer. A replacement is already trying to fill that void.

Community Spotlight for June 2-9, 2025

Celoron Mayor Scot Schrecengost on upcoming Celoron Rib-fest

June 3rd, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 11:30

Our Terry Frank lightens up the discussion this week during an interview with Celoron Mayor Scot Schrecengost, who also heads up the annual Celoron Rib-fest in the village, which serves as a fund-raiser for local non-profit organizations. Schrecengost says village leaders weren't sure how long the festival would be around... but, 15 years later... it remains an ongoing success. This will be the 13th annual Rib-fest -- including two years off due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He says they have four ribbers ready to go this Wed., June 4 through Sat., June 7, along with other food vendors, such as Fowler's Taffy and the Beer Garden. He says lunches will also be served on Wednesday and Thursday... with longer hours on both Friday and Saturday. Schrecengost adds that they will also host the event's annual Cruisin' on Saturday. He says proceeds will be going to support the local wing of the Civil Air Patrol... the Children's Safety Village at the Ashville BOCES, and the Celoron Fire Department. For more information, go on-line to www.celoronribfest.com.

Community Spotlight for May 26-31, 2025

NYS School Boards Assoc. Chief Communications and Marketing Officer Dave Albert

May 27th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 15:15

With school budget, and board elections having taken place on Tuesday, May 20, our Terry Frank speaks with NYS School Boards Association Communications and Marketing Officer, Dave Albert about how they went. Albert says nearly 96% of the 674 budgets they followed were approved, which was closed to last year's numbers. However... he says a larger number of districts that tried to override the state's 2% property tax cap saw their spending plans defeated. Albert says just under 60% of those budgets were approved... and, that was 8% lower than last year. Among those districts where the budget was defeated was Fredonia in Chautauqua County. He says some districts didn't want to make "too deep" a cuts to their districts, and they saw those defeated. Albert says they have three options: one is to put the proposal up for another vote on June 17... or adopt a contingency (no tax increase) budget, or make new cuts and put that up for a vote. in addition... we talk about changes to the state's Foundation (base) Aid formula, which gave several districts a boost in the amount of funding their receive. We also discuss the lower number of contested school board races, which has been a troubling trend in recent years. He says NYSSBA has also added programming to help new board members deal with all the information that will be coming their way before they're sworn-in for the new school year on July 1.

Community Spotlight for May 18-25, 2025

Jamestown Board of Public Utilities' Business Development Coor. Ellen DiTonto

May 19th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 15:00

News Director Terry Frank welcomes back Jamestown Board of Public Utilities' Business Development Coordinator, Ellen DiTonto to discuss the upcoming "Retool '25" one-day conference in early June. DiDonto says it's designed to help local and regional businesses find and utilize cleaner, and more efficient energy sources. The conference will be held on Tues., June 3 at the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel in Celoron... and, will feature a pair of keynote speakers this time. DiTonto says it's the fourth-annual event... and, the first speaker is Denise Cooglin, who worked in making Subaru of America to make their operations more efficient. The second speaker is D. Evan van Hook who is with Veredi Pirente of Buffalo, which produces lithium-ion batteries... who is an expert on sustainability, and how money can be saved in that regard. We also discuss the BPU's recent awarding of 19,000 grants through the New York State Energy Research and Development to seven local manufacturers to retool their plants and facilities.

Community Spotlight for May 11-18, 2025

Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund

May 12th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 14:59

Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund joins us this week to talk with News Director Terry Frank about a number of issues and topics. First...we discussion the potential impacts of the new state budget put in place for the 2025-26 fiscal year. Ecklund says, while a temporary boost in Aid and Incentives to Municipalities (AIM) includes a slight increase, there are no long-term increases involved. However... she is pleased to see the new, 254-billion spending plan finally enacted. We also review the recent Developer's Forum held at Wicked Warren's on West Third Street. Ecklund says she felt the event went well, and has produced some productive talks with at least two developers. More than 100 people attended. She says the walking and riding tours, on downtown trolleys, had good responses. For the first time... she says the team of the city and it's Board of Public Utilities went very well from both economic development and housing matters. We also discuss the new, 4-year agreement reached with the Jamestown police... Kendall Club-Police Benevolent Association through mediation. We also discuss the upcoming, 13 year-old Babe Ruth World Series to be held at Diethrick Park in mid-August. She says the World Series committee still need "Diamond Girls," and "Host Family Ambassadors."

Community Spotlight for May 5-12, 2025

Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

May 7th, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 14:59

News Director Terry Frank is joined by Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel this week to talk about a number of topics, including the New York state budget. This past week, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced a tentative agreement on most everything she pushed for in the 254-billion spending plan. However, as this is dropped, work is still underway to finalize the 2025-26 spending plan. Wendel says there are some things he likes, including the additional time for discovery in court cases... and, boosting of Kendra's Law -- which was named after late Fredonia native Kendra Webdale -- who was killed when a mentally ill man pushed her in front of a subway train in New York City. We also discuss county programming for the week of May 4-10 for Mental Health Awareness Month. Wendel also talks about the condition of Chautauqua Lake as the Summer season is upon us. He recently toured the lake to see the water condition, and where things were with invasive weed growth. For now, he says that's mainly a few feet below the surface. We also preview last weekend's Worker's Memorial Day commemoration at Erlandson Overlook Park in Frewsburg.

Community Spotlight for Apr. 29-May 3, 2025

Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services Director Dana Corwin

May 1st, 2025 12:00am | Duration: 16:45

Our Terry Frank welcomes county Office for Aging Services Executive Director Dana Corwin to the program for the first time this week. Corwin had lived in Chautauqua County nearly 20 years... and, worked at the Office for Aging Services for 17 years before officially replacing the retired Mary Ann Spanos this past Jan. 1. Corwin talks about her background... and, we get into the OFAS first-ever Senior Expo and Conference coming up on May 22. She says it'll be held at the SUNY College at Fredonia... and, adds they're hoping to see about 1,000 seniors, and many of their caregivers at the day-long event. Corwin says there'll be programs through-out the day, along with break-out groups discussing a number of topics important to seniors and caregivers. Corwin says one item they'll have is Food Trucks during the lunch time... which is something several people have asked to have for the program. For more information... contact the OFAS NY-Connects program. Corwin also urged seniors and caregivers to write to state and federal lawmakers about the programs that are important to them. That's due to uncertain funding coming from the federal, and by extention, New York state.

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