Allegany County Community Source 02-03-2023

Allegany County recognizes Stearns family for community service

BELMONT — An Alfred-area family was honored this week for their services to the community.

The Allegany County Legislature started their meeting Wednesday in recognition of Judson and Mary Stearns.

Judson “Jud” Stearns is a 1973 graduate of Alfred-Almond Central School, while Mary is a 1973 graduate of Andover Central School and a 1975 graduate of Alfred State College.

The resolution highlights the decades-long contributions of the husband and wife team. Mr. Stearns has served as a member of the Alfred Station Fire Company for 49 years,acting as Chief, President, Treasurer, and Steward during that time. He has also served 42 years as a member of the Allegany County Fire Advisory Board, and as Board representative to the Allegany County Public Safety Committee. Mrs. Stearns was a member of the Fire Company’s Auxiliary for fifteen years. Mrs. Stearns has distinguished herself as a champion of child and adult literacy, serving on the Alfred Box of Books Board of Directors, Friends of the Alfred Box of Books Library, and the Alfred-Almond Cen-

tral School “Book-It” Reading Program. Both have served their communities in municipal government.

Mrs. Stearns sat upon the Alfred Town Board from 2009-2017. In 1992, Mr. Stearns was appointed to the Town of Alfred Zoning Board of Appeals and served for 25 years.

The Stearns have devoted a combined 70 years to volunteering with the Boy Scouts of America And have served in nearly all available positions at the local, district, and council level. Mr. Stearns is a former scoutmaster of Troop 19 in Alfred and current cubmaster of Pack 1026 in Almond. Mrs. Stearns, in addition to her local service, has served as Five Rivers Council Training Chair, District Day Camp Director, and District Committee Member. Both are recipients of the Thunderbird District Award of Merit and the Silver Beaver award, the highest council level recognition awarded to adult volunteers.In business, Mr. and Mrs. Stearns have operated Stearns Poultry Farm, a third-generation agricultural and retail food operation in Alfred Station for nearly 50 years. Their chicken barbeque is a beloved favorite for summertime picnics

and fundraisers.

The resolution was presented to the Stearns by District V Legislators Janice Burdick, Philip Curran, and Board Chairman W. Brooke Harris. Burdick applauded the pair’s contributions to their community.

“We’re so happy to be able to recognize Jud and Mary for their many years of volunteer service,” Burdick said. “Allegany County is a great place to live because of its people, and the Stearns’ commitment to their community is an example for us all to follow.”

Jones Memorial Hospital awarded Primary Stroke Certification

WELLSVILLE

—

After a rigorous, unannounced onsite review, Jones Memorial Hospital has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval and the American Stroke Association’s Heart-Check mark for Primary Stroke Certification.

“This was a team effort and congratulations go to everyone involved,” said Jones President/CEO Jim Helms, noting that the

review involved Jones staff and local EMS squads.

Helms explained that in 2019 the New York state commissioner of health began delegating the review of stroke certifications to nationally recognized accrediting organizations.

“We chose to work with The Joint Commission as our hospital maintains accreditation with this organization and this was a signif-

icant change for the teams,” he said. “This certification demonstrates a team effort across organizations and the use of healthcare industry standards for every stroke patient.”

Jones stroke coordinator Mona Carbone said the hospital has been certified as a New York State Primary Stroke Center since 2015.

“The Joint Commission Primary Stroke

certification is designed for hospitals providing the critical elements to achieve long-term success in improving outcomes,” she said.

During the review on Nov. 23, Jones was evaluated on compliance with related certification standards, from patient arrival to the hospital through the course of care and rehabilitation, EMS care, patient and JMH Cert continued on PAGE 4

Photo provided

From left, Allegany County Board of Legislators Chairman W. Brooke Harris, Jeremy Stearns, Mary Stearns, Judson Stearns, Legislator Janice Burdick and Legislator Philip Curran present a resolution highlighting the Stearns family’s commitment to public service on Wednesday in Belmont.

Oswayo Valley celebrates grand opening of YMCA Child Care

SHINGLEHOUSE,

Pa. — On Jan. 26, in a wing of the Oswayo Valley Elementary School building, a festive red ribbon was cut to mark the beginning of a wonderful addition to the Shinglehouse community. The Oswayo Valley School District, the

YMCA of the Twin Tiers, parents, and community members came together to celebrate the grand opening of the Oswayo Valley YMCA Child Care and Early Learning Center.

The creation of the center was made possible through a collaboration between the school

district, the YMCA, and Potter County Human Services. Funding from the Norton Trust Foundation through a community improvement grant helped facilitate renovations and classroom equipment. The child care center is the first fully PA-licensed center in the district and will offer care for children ages 6 months to four years old.

“The YMCA is a vital link in the chain of child development and early learning,” noted Jeff Townsend, CEO of the YMCA of the Twin Tiers.

“As a YMCA, we strive to be the number one provider of safe, nurturing, and affordable childcare and early learning in our region. Our mission is to help build strong kids, strong families, and strong communities through programs and services that are critical to the livelihood of a commu-

nity. To that end, this new Early Learning Center will do just that. I believe that the new Early Learning Center will be a pillar of the Shinglehouse community and a beacon for families in need of our childcare services,” proclaimed Townsend.

Oswayo Valley School District Superintendent Jed Hamburger shared his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “This is a glorious day

for the Oswayo Valley School District and community, we have had this project in the works for a long time and have made great progress to get to this point. None of this would have been possible without the support of our school board, The Twin Tiers YMCA, The Norton Trust Foundation, and the county services offices.” Hamburger continued, “We couldn’t bring

this to our community alone and it took a village to bring it to fruition. We are excited to offer this to our community members and surrounding communities as it is a need that we saw for the people of our community and beyond.”

The YMCA of the Twin Tiers is already a leading childcare pro-

Photo provided

At the grand opening of the Oswayo Valley YMCA Child Care and Early Learning Center were, from left, Amy Yohe, Thomas Patterson, Olivia Jandrew, Virginia Butler, Trent Bryant, Jed Hamberger, Kira Schine, Erika Emerick, Kayle Perkins, Bryonna Swede and Jim Kockler.

YMCA continued on PAGE 4

vider in the three Pennsylvania and New York counties that it serves. With the opening of the Shinglehouse location, the Y now operates four fully licensed early learning centers. The Y also has child care and enrichment services in 10 school districts spanning McKean, Cattaraugus, and Allegany Counties. In total the YMCA of the Twin Tiers cares for over 1,800 children daily.

Kira Schine, associate

child care director at the Bradford YMCA, was integral in the licensing process and collaboration with the Oswayo School District and Potter County Human Services. She noted the impact of this endeavor, “Child Care and Early Learning Centers are crucial to every community. At the YMCA of the Twin Tiers, we are dedicated to helping families with not only their childcare needs but also in helping devel-

op children socially, emotionally, and cognitively. We are excited to become a part of the Oswayo Valley community and look forward to getting to know all of the families.”

For more information, or to inquire about registering a child for care, contact Kira Schine. She can be reached at 814-368-1610, ext. 250 or by email at KiraS@TwinTiersYMCA.org.

dining & Entertainment

community education, program management and maintenance. Joint Commission standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. The reviewer also conducted onsite observations and interviews.

Sandra Watkins, vice president of patient care services at Jones, also offered her congratulations to everyone involved in the successful review.

“Achieving Primary Stroke Center Certification means our hospital, EMS and community are making exceptional efforts to foster better outcomes,” she said. “It’s a commitment to our

Photo provided by Jones Memorial Hospital Marking the recertification of Jones Memorial Hospital as a primary stroke center are (from left) Sandra Watkins, vice president of patient care services; Mona Carbone, Jones Memorial’s stroke coordinator; and Jim Helms, CEO at Jones.

community the quality of care we provide meets the unique and specialized needs of stroke patients.”

Association, congratulated Jones for “this outstanding achievement. This certification reflects its commitment to providing the highest quality of care for stroke patients.”

ALLEGANY COUNTY OFFICE FOR THE AGING SR. NUTRITION PROGRAM

FRIDAY 2/3

Chicken Alfredo, Broccoli, Succotash, WG Roll, Tropical Fruit

MONDAY 2/6

Applesauce, Cabbage Casserole, Mashed Potatoes, WG Rye Bread, Peanut Butter Cookie

TUESDAY 2/7

Chicken Breast Supreme over Egg Noodles, Glazed Carrots, WG Roll, Apple Slices

WEDNESDAY 2/8

Fruit Cocktail, Scalloped Potatoes & Ham, Italian Green Beans, WG Bread, Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

THURSDAY 2/9

Chili w/ beans, Garlic Cauliflower, Cornbread, WG Roll, Mandarin Oranges

➡YMCA continued from PAGE 2

Alfred State autobody students continue to benefit from wreck/rebuild program

ALFRED — An autobody wreck/rebuild program continues to benefit Alfred State College students preparing for their career with hands-on learning.

Under the guidance of instructors CJ Tremper and Brad Smith, students in the autobody program fix wrecked vehicles to gain insight into what it is like to work inside a live collision shop. There are six cars in the shop that are being repaired.

Autobody student Mikal Smith enjoys being part of this program.

“I like being handson,” he said. “We have lectures and go through the basics, and we talk through everything that we will experience in the real world. Getting hands-on you learn more, experience it, and you know exactly what is going to happen. When I go into the industry, I will already have done it.”

Vehicles are secured for the wreck/rebuild

program through funding provided by the private Educational Foundation of Alfred, Inc.. The foundation possesses a New York state automotive dealer’s license that allows the college to purchase wrecked cars from auto salvage auctions, which are used for student projects.

The foundation covers the cost of pur-

chasing the cars and any parts or materials needed to bring them back to pre-accident condition.

Work ranges from minor repairs on hoods and fenders to major repairs to the structure of the vehicles.

This year students have been working on a 2014 Ford Focus, a 2017 Chevy Cruze and three Dodge Avengers. The Focus and Cruze had

Build a budget that works for you

Financial trends come and go, and it appears as though one approach to finance that industry professionals have long touted is having a moment.

According to Debt.com, 86 percent of the more than 1,000 respondents who participated in the site’s annual budgeting survey admitted they budget their spending. That marks a roughly 16 percent increase since 2019.

If budgeting is getting a star turn in individual financial planning, it’s well deserved. Budgeting can help people save money and achieve an assortment of financial goals, including paying down debt, financing tuition and planning a dream vacation.

Each person’s budget will be different, but

that doesn’t mean people need to take wholly unique approaches to building a budget. In fact, a conventional approach to budget-building can help people from all walks of life.

• Determine your net income. The Bank of America notes that net income, also known as “takehome pay,” is the foundation of a budget. In the era of direct deposit, it can be easy for anyone to forget how much money they’re taking in each month.

Salaried workers can determine their net income pretty quickly and easily, while workers who are paid by the hour and freelancers may need to do a little extra work and serve

as their own bookkeepers as they try to calculate their net incomes.

• Monitor your spending. Spending habits fluctuate, but some patterns will likely develop over time, and identifying these patterns is vital to building a budget.

Individuals needn’t wait to track their spending. Log into your bank account and see how you spent money each month over the last six months to a year. This can give you an accurate idea of where your money went after it came in. Monthly utility bills may be constants, but those bills tend to fluctuate depending on the season, so a closer examina-

tion can yield what the average cost is. Budgets may need to be tweaked during months when utility bills peak.

• Don’t discount the importance of things you want. It’s important when building a budget that money is left for more than just bills. Things you want to do like dine out, travel or additional expenses like entertainment should be built into your budget so you can still enjoy yourself and your budget is not blown up when opportunities to have fun inevitably arise. Track and tweak. Progress can be tracked and the budget can be tweaked if you’re still having

front-end damage while each of the Avengers had damage in different areas.

Tremper knows that this program allows autobody students to take what they learn in the classroom and apply it right in the shop.

“These cars have allowed our students to learn in the classroom by getting our hands dirty and doing the work,” he said. “Once we had all the cars onsite, students worked diligently to repair them. We are nearing completion on all five cars.

“The project cars have allowed our students to do not only body and paint work, but also a variety of mechanical work,” Tremper said. “The students are enjoying the challenge of these projects and have something great to add to their portfolios as they approach graduation.”

Smith appreciates the opportunities that the wreck/rebuild program and the Educational Foundation have given him and his fellow students.

“I am extremely grateful and thankful that every day we have so many opportunities with so many cars,” he said.

trouble saving or your efforts to save are causing issues. Tracking progress allows you to see what is and isn’t working, while tweaking affords room to compromise if the budget is proving

too restrictive or not allowing you to meet your goals.

A conventional approach to budgeting can help people achieve their financial goals and feel better about their futures.

Photo provided by Alfred State College

Autobody student Mikal Smith works on a damaged vehicle in the autobody shop at Alfred State College.

GOP lawmakers want to ‘Create a Safer New York’

ALBANY — Republicans in the State Legislature want to roll back criminal justice reforms of the past few years, saying the results have been a disastrous rise in crime.

“New Yorkers have told us repeatedly that their number one concern is the state’s rising crime rate,” state Sen. George Borrello of Chautauqua County said Monday. “While New York’s Democratic leaders continue to ignore those pleas to restore public safety, our Conference is taking the lead with a package of proposals that will end the catch-and-release system that has emboldened criminals, demoralized our law enforcement community and made our streets more dangerous.”

Sen. Tom O’Mara, R-Big Flats, also was front and center Monday during a press conference in Albany to unveil a package of “Create a Safer New York” proposals to “strengthen support for law enforcement, fix the state’s broken criminal justice system, crack down on illegal gun crime and better protect crime victims and law-abiding New Yorkers.”

Members of law enforcement and victims’ advocates joined the lawmakers.

“From misguided bail, prison discipline and parole reforms stemming from the ‘defund the police’ movement, we have seen over the past several years this Legislature move in directions that many of us believe pose a serious danger to public safety and security throughout New York state,” O’Mara said. “This state has become less safe. We need to keep working against the Albany Democrats’ extreme, criminal-coddling law enforcement policies, stand behind

our police officers, and resist radical efforts that threaten the safety and stability of our communities and neighborhoods.”

Some of the Republicans’ proposals are as follows:

• Creating the SAFER Communities Grant Program to invest in critical investigatory and prosecutorial resources designed to increase case clearance rates for homicide and gun crimes.

• Repealing HALT to protect corrections officers and allowing the use of familial DNA to give law enforcement more investigatory tools.

• Rolling back bail and discovery laws, and providing for judicial discretion regarding setting bail, as well as increasing penalties for habitual repeat offenders.

• Reducing the use of illegal firearms with increased funding

Safer NY continued on PAGE 9

Servicing Cattaraugus, Allegany, McKean and Potter Counties

1553 Olean-Portville Road • Olean, NY 14760 Mon–Fri 8am-6pm • Sat 8am–Noon 716-372-0565 www.beseckerandcoss.net

Bolivar-Richburg Central School

Coaching

Position

The Bolivar-Richburg Central School District has the following coaching position available for the 2022-2023 school year:

SPRING SEASON: Track Assistant

Coaches (2 needed)

Candidates will need to meet the coaching certification requirements prior to the start of the season. Applications are available on our WEBSITE WWW.BRCS.WNYRIC.ORG in the main office at either campus, or in the athletic office. Please submit applications by FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2023 TO:

Dustin Allen, Athletic Director, Bolivar-Richburg Central School, 100 School Street, Bolivar, NY 14715

automotive

Warning signs that brakes are faltering

Automotive problems are often best left to professionals.

Though seasoned car enthusiasts may be capable of diagnosing and fixing car troubles without the assistance of a trusted mechanic, most drivers are better off letting the pros address issues under

the hood. But drivers can still play a vital role in vehicle maintenance. Learning to recognize warning signs of various problems that can affect cars can prevent breakdowns and potentially costly repairs. And in certain instances, such as when the brake

system is not working properly, knowing how to spot problems before they escalate into something larger can make drivers and their passengers safer and potentially prevent accidents.

Television shows and movies have lent credence to the notion that brake problems are marked by the sudden cessation of a vehicle’s ability to stop. Though that can happen, warning signs of fading brake systems tend to be more subtle.

• Noises: Much like a knocking sound typically indicates a problem with a

vehicle’s air-fuel ration mixture, certain noises also suggest there are problems with the brakes. The most noticeable such sign is a high-pitched squeal that occurs when drivers apply the brakes. But grinding sounds and noises like scratching and scraping also warrant a visit to a brake specialist.

• Increase in stopping distance:

An increase in the distance a vehicle travels before it stops after the brakes are applied indicates that there’s an issue

with the brakes. This issue may or may not require a brake replacement. In fact, it’s sometimes indicative that brake fluid levels are low, which can be remedied quickly and easily. However, an increase in stopping distance is significant enough that it should be brought to the attention of a brake specialist immediately.

• Pulling upon stopping: Another warning sign of brake problems is when the vehicle noticeably pulls

to one side as it comes to a stop. This indicates that one side of the brakes is malfunctioning while the other is working properly. Like other issues with brakes, this one requires immediate attention from an automotive professional.

Brake systems should be inspected during routine maintenance visits. But issues with brakes can arise even after such inspections, which underscores how important it is that drivers learn to recognize the warning signs of brake problems.

home improvement

Small renovations that can make a big impact

Home renovations provide a host of benefits. Such projects can increase resale value and improve on the safety, aesthetics and functionality of a home.

Some homeowners may employ the mantra “go big or go home” when they embark on home improvements, thinking that only the largest renovations produce noticeable change. But that’s not the case. Various smaller renovations can provide a lot of bang for homeowners’ bucks as well.

• Countertops (and hardware): A complete kitchen overhaul may stretch some homeowners’ budgets. However, changing an older countertop for a new material can provide the facelift a kitchen needs. And while changing the cabinets may be homeowners’ ultimate goal, swapping hardware in dated finishes for newer handles and pulls can provide low-cost appeal.

• Paint: Painting a space is an inexpensive improvement that adds maximum impact. Paint can transform dark and drab rooms into bright and airy oases. Paint also can be used to create an accent wall or cozy nooks. Homeowners also can showcase their personalities with their choice of paint colors.

• Lighting: Homeowners should not underestimate what a change in lighting can do. When rooms or exterior spaces are illuminated, they take on entirely new

looks. It’s worth it to invest in new lighting, whether it’s a dramatic hanging light over the dining room table or task

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lighting in dim spaces.

• Weatherproofing:

Improving windows, doors, weatherstripping, and insulation in a home can offer visual appeal and help homeowners save money. The

initial investment may be significant, but those costs will pay off in energy savings. According to One Main Financial, space heating is the largest energy expense the average American homeowner has, accounting for

around 45 percent of all energy costs.

• Mudroom: Turn an entryway into a more functional space with the addition of cabinets, benches or customdesigned storage options that perfectly fit the

area. Cubbies and cabinets can corral shoes, umbrellas, hats, bags, and much more.

• Accent updates: Any space, whether it’s inside or outside a home, can get a fresh look with new decorative accents.

Invest in new throw pillows and even slipcovers for living room sofas. Use new tile or paint the brick on a fireplace in a den, then update the mantel with decorative displays.

Purchase wall art that can bring different colors into

a room. Change the cushions on deck furniture and buy color-coordinated planters.

These subtle changes will not cost as much as full-scale renovations, but they can still help homeowners transform their homes.

Genesee Valley to host STEAM Carnival Feb. 10

BELMONT — Genesee Valley Central School will host a STEAM Carnival on Feb. 10 to showcase student work and include a host of handson STEAM activities

and demonstrations for families.

Student artwork and projects from a variety of grade-levels will be on display from 4 to 8 p.m., including projects made in the GVCS In-

➡Safer NY continued from PAGE 7 for gun interdiction efforts and increasing penalties for crimes committed with stolen firearms, and mandatory consecutive sentencing for crimes involving illegal firearms.

• Making any misdemeanor or felony offense involving an illegal firearm bail eligible, and

amending Raise the Age to ensure 16- and 17-year-olds charged with certain gun or gang-related crimes are prosecuted as adults.

• Authorizing judges to set lifetime orders of protection for certain crimes, such as violent and domestic violence felonies.

novation Center.

The STEAM Carnival will also celebrate literacy and provide free resources for families.

The evening includes a lasagna dinner fundraiser in support of the GVCS Drama Club. Meals are $12 each and can be picked up to-go in the High School Cafeteria from 4 to 6:30 p.m.

Carnival games (and prizes), bounce houses, concessions, and an Escape Room will be available with all proceeds benefiting the GVCS Drama Club. A $10 ticket will provide 10 carnival games plus

health & Wellness

unlimited bouncing.

The Escape Room will be available for $10 per group (maximum of four people). A number of local organizations will be on hand, including Mascho Homestead Farms, a pasture-based animal farm specializing in farm-to-table products;

the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts from St. Bonaventure University with DIY trumpeting elephants and DIY carnival masks; Terra Twin Tiers Science Fair from the University of Pitt-Bradford; and more.

Lindsay Simpson, STEAM and instructional technology specialist,

said, “We are excited to see this event return after a COVID hiatus, and it seems like it is coming back bigger than ever. We are excited to have the opportunity to showcase our students’ achievements as well as highlight businesses and organizations we are fortunate to have in our community. He said he hopes families will spend the evening enjoying all that Genesee Valley has to offer and celebrate STEAM learning and creativity as they relate real-life applications.

How to protect long-term cognitive health

Cognitive health is not something to take for granted. Although a certain level of memory loss can be expected as people age, when the ability to clearly think,

learn and remember is compromised, those changes can affect an individual’s ability to perform daily activities and should serve as a cause for concern.

Brain health should be a priority for everyone. The National Institute on Aging says brain health is an umbrella term that encompasses a host of factors, including:

• cognitive health which is how well you think, learn and remember

• motor function , or how you make and control movements

• tactile function , which is how you feel sensations; and

• emotional function , or how emotions are interpreted and responded to.

Individuals can safeguard brain health — particularly cognitive

health — by taking these steps.

Be more healthconscious

Working with doctors, individuals can put their health first. This includes getting routine screenings, managing chronic health problems, limiting or avoiding alcohol and nicotine products, and getting the recommended amount of sleep each night.

Manage high blood pressure

All chronic conditions cause long-term repercussions, but the NIA indicates that observational studies show having high blood pressure in mid-life increases the risk of cognitive decline

later in life. Lowering blood pressure lowers the risk for mild cognitive impairment and possibly dementia.

Challenge your brain

Harvard Medical School says nurturing social contacts, engaging in stimulating mental activities like reading and doing puzzles, seeing new places, and learning new things can help keep the brain in top form.

Manage stress

Stress can take its toll on the body, and there is reason to believe that it may adversely affect cognitive health as well.

Make every stride to reduce stress, whether that involves taking

vacations, meditating, laughing with friends and family, or engaging in relaxing activities that relieve stress.

Get enough vitamin D

Vitamin D is linked to a host health benefits, including its potential to promote a healthy brain. Individuals can get more time outdoors to get vitamin D naturally from the sun and eat foods rich in vitamin D. If doctors find that vitamin D levels are exceptionally low, supplementation can help.

Pay attention to hearing loss

Certain hearing loss has been linked to cognitive decline, says Healthline. Researchers in Italy concluded that people with central hearing loss had a higher risk of mild cognitive impairment than those with no hearing loss or peripheral hearing loss. Individuals with central hearing loss are urged to speak to their physicians to determine if they can take preventive action to stave off further decline.

Cognitive health should be a priority. Adults can employ various strategies to reduce their risk of cognitive decline as they age.