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Langworthy, Gies offer competing visions on health care, taxes and development
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What’s Cool in School: Challenger Center, C-R teacher win Scobee Rodgers Award BY KELLEN M. QUIGLEY
For his love of outer space and even greater love of educating children, Cuba-Rushford teacher Dave Volz has been named a winner of the June Scobee Rodgers Educator Award. The prestigious national award — named in honor of Challenger Center Founding Chair Dr. June Scobee Rodgers, the widow of Challenger Space Shuttle Commander Dick Scobee — recognizes one outstanding
school’s classroom lessons and/or support professional development opportunities. The nominating Challenger Learning Center receives an additional $1,000 award. On Friday, Reann Ehman, Director of the Challenger Learning Center of the Twin Tiers, presented Volz with a ceremonial $1,500 check while his eighth-grade class was visiting the facility for a hands-on space simulation mission. Volz was nominated by the Challenger
K-12 educator nationwide who demonstrates exceptional passion for STEM and inspires students to reach for the stars. Volz was nominated by the Challenger Learning Center of the Twin Tier Region, located in Allegany, where Volz has brought his students annually since 2009. Volz, an 8th-grade math teacher at Cuba-Rushford Central School with over 25 years of teaching experience, will receive $1,500 to further enhance the
Learning Center of the Twin Tiers for his innovative integration of mathematics and space science, his hands-on mentorship and his dedication to introducing rural students to STEM careers. Volz said the funding for Cuba-Rushford would be used to buy lab equipment for STEM classes, such as an astrophotography telescope that can capture images to be printed off as posters. Scobee Rodgers Award continued on PAGE 4
Photo provided Cuba-Rushford teacher Dave Volz (left) is presented a ceremonial $1,500 from Reann Ehman, Director of the Challenger Learning Center of the Twin Tiers, as winner of the June Scobee Rodgers Educator Award for his love of STEM and inspiring students to reach for the stars.
Fahs, Fesmire outline priorities in Wellsville mayoral race BY KATHRYN ROSS
WELLSVILLE — Incumbent Mayor Ed Fahs and challenger Caleb Fesmire are seeking to fill the remaining two years of the village mayor’s term, with both candidates identifying housing, parking, infrastructure, and communication as issues facing the community. Fahs, a village trustee since 2017, was appointed mayor by the village board after Randy Shayler resigned in September 2025. Fesmire, a library services and technology coordinator, is making his first run for political office.
Ed Fahs
Caleb Fesmire
The candidates bring different backgrounds and campaign priorities to the race. Fahs emphasizes his experience in village government, support for small businesses, and the need to improve aging infrastructure. Fesmire is
making communication between village government and residents the centerpiece of his campaign, while also proposing changes he believes could encourage housing development and make it easier for people to live and
work in the village. “I think it’s important that the community feel it has a voice and knows what is going on with the village government,” Fesmire said. Fahs said the village is working to make its laws and requirements more accessible online and is open to other ways of improving communication with residents. “We’re trying to find ways of being more open to the public,” he said.
Experience and involvement Fahs was deputy mayor when he was appointed to succeed
Shayler. A Republican who describes himself as conservative, he said serving as mayor has brought some surprises and required him to address a wide range of village issues. “It isn’t what I expected,” he said. Originally from North Tonawanda, Fahs moved to Wellsville in 1989 to work for the village electric department. He has worked for National Grid for 21 years. He and his wife, Jessica, have three children and six grandchildren between them. His years of involvement in village government have given him familiarity with municipal
operations, local projects, and the challenges involved in maintaining services with limited resources. Fahs said that experience has helped him understand both the day-to-day responsibilities of the mayor’s office and the longer-term issues facing the community. Fesmire also is from North Tonawanda. He graduated from North Tonawanda High School in 2017 and Houghton College in 2021, studying writing, communications, and art. He has worked at the Box of Books Library Wellsville Mayoral Race continued on PAGE 4
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October 30, 2026
allegany county Community Source
Langworthy, Gies offer competing visions on health care, taxes and development loans and Pell Grants as examples of programs that helped families advance. “They gave us a good life,” Gies said. “The sort of life where we didn’t fly for vacations, but we weren’t ever hungry.”
BY JIM ECKSTROM
U.S. Rep. Nick Langworthy is emphasizing tax cuts, local control over development and constituent service in his bid for a third term, while Democratic challenger Aaron Gies is advocating expanded Social Security funding, universal health care and greater scrutiny of public subsidies for data center projects. The candidates for New York’s 23rd Congressional District offer sharply different views of Washington’s role in helping families facing high costs, although both have raised concerns about the effects of data centers on electricity bills. The Republican incumbent, who received 66% of the vote against
Taxes and household costs Rep. Nick Langworthy
Aaron Gies
Democrat Tom Carle in 2024, said he believes his record and the district’s conservative character will resonate with voters. But he said he is taking nothing for granted. “I believe that you’ve got to go campaign,” Langworthy said in a recent interview. “You’ve got to go ask for the vote.” Gies, a St. Bonaven-
ture University theology professor on leave for the campaign, told a large crowd in the Nancy Howe Auditorium in Wellsville on Oct. 20 that government should help residents build stable lives and ensure that economic growth benefits local communities. He credited his parents with teaching him hard work and service, while citing Federal Housing Administration
Langworthy pointed to Republican tax legislation enacted in July 2025 as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act as a principal accomplishment. He said provisions benefiting families, tipped employees and people working overtime put more money in working households’ pockets. “I believe people will do a better job with their own money than letting Washington, D.C., make decisions on how to
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spend it,” he said. He rejected criticism that the legislation primarily benefits wealthy Americans, arguing that extending tax cuts prevented a substantial tax increase. Langworthy acknowledged that grocery and gasoline prices remain stubbornly high and cautioned against expecting immediate relief, distancing his assessment from President Donald Trump’s promises. “The president certainly has used a lot of hyperbole. I try to be a little more practical and factual,” he said. He attributed lingering inflation partly to federal spending during the COVID pandemic and said encouraging business growth, jobs and higher wages would help families meet expenses. Gies argued that higher earners should contribute more to Social Security. He proposed eliminating the ceiling on earnings subject to the program’s taxes without increasing the maximum benefit. He criticized Langworthy’s call during an Oct. 6 television debate for a bipartisan commission to examine Social Security’s finances, saying voters deserve a
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specific remedy. Gies said removing the earnings cap would distribute contributions more fairly and strengthen the program while honoring commitments to people who paid into it throughout their working lives.
Health care divide Health care represents one of the candidates’ clearest disagreements. Gies supports universal, single-payer coverage under which government would manage the insurance pool and pay for treatment while patients continued receiving care from private providers. “The problem with for-profit health care is right in the name,” he said. “It’s for profit.” He argued that the existing combination of public programs and private insurance creates unnecessary costs and puts shareholder returns ahead of patients. A system focused on health outcomes, he said, would better support mental health treatment, disability services, dental care, vision care and hearing services. Langworthy characterized Gies’ approach Langworthy, Gies continued on PAGE 6
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October 30, 2026
dining & Entertainment
Wellsville Creative Arts Center th celebrating 20 anniversary WELLSVILLE — The Wellsville Creative Arts Center is celebrating 20 years of bringing art, music, education, and community together, and everyone is invited to join in. The center opened its doors Oct. 29 for a special 20th Anniversary Community Open House, marking two decades of creativity, connection and the people who have made it a special part of Wellsville. Guests enjoyed an evening of live music, tours of the ceramic studios, a nostalgic look back at 20 years of memories and milestones — and anniversary cake. Since opening its doors in 2006, WCAC has grown into a vibrant gathering place where
creativity thrives and friendships are formed. From pottery classes and art exhibitions to live music, performances, and community
events, the Center has welcomed generations of artists, students, musicians, and neighbors through its doors. “The Art Center
is my happy place, my home away from home,” Kathie Stedina said. Perhaps one of the most meaningful testaments to the center’s impact is that many of its students have been taking classes since the original ribbon-cutting in 2006. Twenty years
later, those same students continue to gather, create, learn, and share friendships built around a love of art. “I’ve been coming to the Art Center since it first opened. I love making pottery and creating new things, but what makes this place truly special is the community of people who share a passion for making and all that the Art Center has to offer,” Nancy Reuning said. The WCAC’s story is also one of preservation, vision and an investment in the future of downtown Wellsville. What began as an effort to save a historic building (Carter Hardware) became an extensive renovation that transformed the property into a thriving cultural and community destination. Founders Andy and Tina Glanzman’s commitment to the building has continued
well beyond the original restoration — most recently, in partnership with the state and its NY Forward initiative, new apartments on the second and third floors will open in 2027. The Glanzmans continue to reinvest in the center, helping ensure its long-term sustainability and creating a lasting asset for the Wellsville community. “For 20 years, the Wellsville Creative Arts Center has been about so much more than art,” Andy Glanzman said. “It’s about creating a place where people feel welcome, discover something new, and connect with one another. This anniversary celebration is our opportunity to say thank you to the incredible community that has supported us, inspired us, and helped make the Art Center what it is today.”
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October 30, 2026
allegany county Community Source
automotive
A bright idea for visibility — during both day and night BY RAY MAGLIOZZI
Dear Car Talk: You recently asked for comments from anybody who doesn’t use their automatic headlight switch, asking why. I took several safe driving classes through my employer. The in-
structors always advised that cars with their headlights on during the day got in fewer accidents because they are more visible. Thus, I always drive with my headlights on day or night! So, I manually turn on the lights during the day. I also have to
remind my husband to turn on the lights every time he is driving during the day -- he can’t be trained. I love your column and never miss it. — Sue That’s a good point, Sue. The handful of complaints we hear about automatic headlights relate to them coming “on” when the driver does not want their lights on. Your complaint is that the automatic system keeps the lights “off” during the daytime when you want them lit up. And you’re right that using your lights during the day has been
➡Wellsville Mayoral Race continued from PAGE 1 in Alfred for two years. His wife, Ally, works at the David A. Howe Library. The couple recently bought a house in the village, giving Fesmire a personal stake in the community’s future as both a resident and a homeowner. Fesmire said his experience organizing events and serving in leadership roles in high school and college would help him as mayor. He said his work in libraries also has given him experience communicating with the public, coordinating projects, and helping people find information. “I want to be involved in the community and contribute to the community,” he said.
Housing and parking Both candidates said limited housing and parking present challenges for the village. They agreed that Wellsville needs more housing options, but offered different ideas
about how to encourage development. Fahs pointed to a proposed project involving Alfred State College, the Alfred Education Foundation, and the village to build one- and two-family townhouses behind the Brook Haven Apartments off Trapping Brook Road. The project remains seven to eight years away, he said, and would require the village to annex land from the town of Wellsville to provide infrastructure. The proposal could eventually add housing for families and individuals, but Fahs said the project would require planning, cooperation among local governments, and significant infrastructure work before construction could begin. Fahs said parking requirements also complicate apartment development. Developers may be interested in converting vacant or underused buildings
into apartments, he said, but parking regulations can make those projects difficult or too expensive. The board is examining possible solutions, including changes to zoning regulations. The issue is particularly important in the village’s older neighborhoods and downtown areas, where buildings were constructed before current parking standards were adopted. Fahs said the village must balance the need for additional housing with the need to ensure that residents, businesses, and emergency vehicles have adequate access. Fesmire said vacant buildings could provide opportunities for additional apartments if the village made development easier for landlords and entrepreneurs. Drawing on his experience as a renter and a new homeowner, he said parking restrictions affect both housing and Andy Raber 2102 Stout Road Wellsville, NY 14895 Closed on Sundays
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shown to reduce accidents by anywhere from 3% to15%, depending on the circumstances. However, most cars now have daytime running lights (DRLs). Those are “always-on” front lights designed for exactly that purpose -- to make your car more visible. DRLs are a little bit different than your normal lights. In some ways safer, and in other ways, not as safe, in my opinion. They have a lower light intensity, so they’re not as bright as your headlights. However, they have a wider beam dispersion and send light in all directions. Your regular
headlights tend to point down toward the road. So, I imagine there are circumstances in which DRLs could do a better job of catching an oncoming driver’s eye. I’d call it a wash, overall. But the clear downside of DRLs is that they’re only installed up front and do nothing to increase your visibility from behind. Another factor is that turning on your regular headlights during the day may make it harder to see your instrument cluster. Many cars dim the lighting on the cluster when the headlights are on -- assuming it’s dark out and you don’t want your eyes to be blasted from inside the car. If you choose to switch over to using DRLs during the day, it’s super easy. Just set your headlights to “automatic.” Your DRLs will light up during the day, and headlights will come on as it gets dark. If you want to keep using your regular lights
during the day, many cars now are smart enough to shut off the lights entirely when you turn off the ignition and lock the vehicle. So, you may be able to leave the light switch in the “on” position at all times, with no worries about them running down the battery. Some cars have a “timer,” which leaves the headlights on for a minute or so, to light up a pathway to your house while you go inside. But you can test your own car. Leave the headlight switch on, shut off the car, lock it, and go inside. Then take a furtive peek from behind the curtains a few minutes later and see if all the lights are off. Try not to let your neighbors catch you doing this. If all lights are off, then just leave the switch set to “on” all the time, and you’re all set. That’ll even eliminate the need for husband training, Sue. At least for that one issue.
➡Scobee Rodgers Award continued from PAGE 1 Ehman said the funding for the center would be used to continue upgrading various equipment around the center following last year’s renovation project. Volz said he remembers seeing the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster in 1986 as a sophomore and had been interested in outer space since. So when
the Challenger Learning Center opened in 2009, he thought it was a great opportunity to introduce his students to a love for outer space as well. The Challenger Learning Center of the Twin Tier Region was also named the recipient of the 2026 Arthur C. Clarke Award for Innovation in Education for its younger
grades programming. Ehman said the center welcomes classes from schools in Allegany, Cattaraugus and Chautauqua counties in New York and McKean and Potter counties in Pennsylvania. She said about 75% of districts send at least one grade level on a field trip to the center each year, while about 50% of those send multiple grades.
businesses. He said people considering a move to Wellsville may be discouraged if they cannot find convenient parking near their homes, while businesses may face similar concerns when trying to attract customers or employees. “I think we must look at opening more vacant buildings to develop new apartments and make it easier for entrepreneurs to do that,” he said. His proposals include considering diagonal parking, converting some streets to one-way traffic, creating additional parking areas, and easing overnight and seasonal parking restrictions.
Fesmire said those changes would need to be studied carefully, but he believes the village should be willing to reconsider existing rules when they prevent practical solutions. He said improving parking could support both residential development and downtown businesses.
intended to support downtown revitalization and fund projects that improve buildings, storefronts, and public spaces. Fahs said the village is beginning to see the results of that work. “We’re starting to see the small projects coming together,” he said, pointing to work at Main Street businesses. Fahs said attracting a large employer would benefit Wellsville, but existing small businesses remain essential to its economy. He said local stores, restaurants, and service providers contribute to the village’s identity and provide jobs, and that village officials should look for ways to support them rather than focusing only on the possibility of a major new employer. “We need to do everything we can to support them,” he said. He also identified aging infrastructure as a priority, citing deteriorating retaining walls along Madison Creek. Maintaining walls, roads, sidewalks, utilities, and other public facilities can be costly, particularly as municipalities face rising construction and maintenance expenses. Fahs said declining population and limited employment opportunities pose broader challenges. He said
Business and infrastructure Fahs said village government should help keep residents safe and businesses thriving. Much of his time over the past year has involved the village’s participation in the state’s NY Forward grant program. The program is
Wellsville Mayoral Race continued on PAGE 5
allegany county Community Source
October 30, 2026
5
DAR chapter honors editor for America 250 collaboration BELFAST — The Catherine Schuyler Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution presented Olean Times Herald editor Jim Eckstrom with its 2026 Chapter Media Award for a collaboration highlighting local history during the nation’s 250th anniversary year. Sandy Edwards, Regent of the chapter, presented the award to Eckstrom, who also serves as editor of the The Bradford (Pa.) Era
and Allegany County Source, during the chapter’s recent monthly meeting at the Belfast Fire Hall. Beginning in early 2026, members of the Catherine Schuyler and Olean DAR chapters contributed several articles exploring area history and the connections of Cattaraugus and Allegany counties to the Revolutionary War. The articles also were included in a special 250th anniversary edition published the week
of July 4. “I’m grateful to the members of both DAR chapters for sharing their research and their dedication to our area’s history,” Eckstrom said. “Their contributions helped readers see how our communities connect to the larger American story.” He noted, for instance, that many readers learned for the first time that several veterans who fought in the Revolutionary War later settled in what is
now Cattaraugus and Allegany counties and they are buried in area cemeteries. “Preserving that history and passing it on to younger generations helps ensure that the people, sacrifices and experiences that shaped our region are remembered,” Eckstrom said. He also thanked Michiko McElfresh of the Olean DAR for her work on articles detailing relevant history in the Olean area and throughout Cattaraugus County.
Photo provided Jim Eckstrom, editor of Bradford Publishing Co. newspapers, received the 2026 Chapter Media Award from Sandy Edwards, Regent of the Catherine Schuyler Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution.
➡Wellsville Mayoral Race continued from PAGE 4 Wellsville offers a strong quality of life, but families often have to leave the area to find jobs that provide the income and stability they need. “Wellsville is a great place to live and raise a family, but I understand why people are leaving. If you have a family, you have to follow the jobs to support them,” he said. Fesmire said he also supports beautification projects and wants to strengthen relations between village and town governments. He said cooperation between the two municipalities could help address issues that cross their boundaries,
including housing, parking, infrastructure, and economic development. He said a more attractive and better-connected community could help encourage people to stay in Wellsville, move to the village, or invest in local properties.
Communication and public participation For Fesmire, improving communication is central to making village government more responsive. He said residents should have more opportunities to learn about proposals before decisions are made and to share concerns with
elected officials. Fesmire said he would pursue more frequent town hall meetings, greater use of the village’s Facebook page, and recordings of board meetings to help residents follow village business and share concerns. “I would love to hold more frequent town hall meetings where the board can hear the issues that concern the public,” he said. He said online communication could be especially useful for residents who cannot attend evening meetings. Posting information about upcoming votes,
projects, regulations, and public hearings, he said, would make it easier for residents to participate. Fahs said the village is already working to make information more accessible online and is considering additional ways to communicate with the public. He said residents should be able to understand village laws, requirements, and decisions without having to navigate complicated processes or contact multiple offices. Both candidates said public involvement is important, although they differ in how they would expand it. Fahs
pointed to the village’s ongoing efforts and his experience working with the board, while Fesmire called for more regular outreach and additional opportunities for residents to speak directly with officials.
Looking ahead Fahs said he appreciates the community’s support and wants to continue serving as mayor. He said his experience on the board and as mayor would allow him to continue work already underway, including downtown projects, infrastructure planning, and efforts to support local businesses.
“Wellsville is a forward-thinking and supportive community, and I want to continue to be its mayor,” he said. Fesmire said he plans to remain involved in the community regardless of the election’s outcome. He said his interest in local government comes from a desire to contribute to Wellsville and help residents have a stronger voice in decisions affecting the village. He also urged eligible voters to participate. “Whether or not you vote for me, it’s important to get out there and vote,” he said.
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allegany county Community Source
October 30, 2026
Outdoors
Buck of a Lifetime begins in mid-October and early November. George purchased a Tenpoint Crossbow. It fired arrows (bolts) at 415 fps. For broadheads he chose Rage expandable broadheads. The crossbow was essentially zeroed in, a few slight adjustments and he was ready to go. Last year he set up a stand and successfully harvested 2 does. He was a happy man. After a chance meeting with a friend of some 62 years George was excitedly relating his previous years success and the joy it rekindled in him. This brought an unexpected invitation to hunt his friend’s farm in the Perrysburg area. George protested that wasn’t his reason for relating his hunting stories but his friend assured him he knew that or he’d never had invited him! Well, after hearing the farm harbored some really impressive bucks and viewing several trail camera pictures on his friend’s phone and his insistence he come, George somewhat reluctantly accepted that invitation. George wasn’t 1 to take advantage, it isn’t in his character to do so. He arrived at the farm that fateful afternoon at 4 PM. Then the hardest decision both
BY WADE ROBERTSON
When my good buddy, George Duncan, informed me he planned to start hunting again I was thrilled. Five years earlier he found himself surrounded by many of the inevitable life trials many find themselves facing in our later years. Slightly overwhelmed, he’d reluctantly decided to sell all of hunting and fishing gear. Almost immediately, seller’s remorse set in, but at the time the decision seemed the correct one. Five years later, circumstances improved, life leveled out. Now living in Franklinville he discovered the area had a large population of deer. His hunting instincts, once set aside, resurfaced in force. He called me and we discussed his options and felt a crossbow would be the perfect choice. He could hunt close to home, fall weather is relatively warm, the leaves are beautiful and the rut
Photo by Wade Robertson After giving up hunting for a spell George Duncan was able to return to the sport he loved. That this was a good decision is shown here for he bagged the buck of a lifetime, a huge, heavy 9-point weighing an estimated 300 pounds live weight. What a trophy.
had to make was which of the 15 stands to hunt. Bigger bucks showed up sporadically at several locations but there was no discernable pattern. However, some locations had more sightings than others. His friend checked the wind direction, placing George in an appropriately placed tree stand bordering a food plot. He settled in wondering what the evening would bring. At 5:30 motion caught his eye and 3 does slowly fed into the field. The stand was cleverly positioned 30 yards back from the field edge. The shooting lane was some 15 yards wide. This hid the stand from any suspicious deer watching from the edges before entering the field. Big bucks will stand motionless for 30 minutes or more
watching for motion while simultaneously waiting for any stray air currents to whisk a sniff of danger to them. The does slowly moved on. Time passed, then suddenly several explosive snorts sounded behind him. George jerked at the startling sounds; deer approaching from directly downwind had smelled him. Had their snorts spooked the entire area? There was no way to tell. He had little choice but to remain still and patiently wait to see. Another hour passed, shadows lengthened and darkness began to fall. Then suddenly, almost magically, 2 bucks stepped into sight. George gulped with excitement. Both had exceptional antlers! Could this really be happening? The 2
bucks began sparring, antlers clashing, some half-hearted shoving, pushing twisting. With the light fading rapidly he attempted to control his shaking hands, rapid breathing and pounding heart. One buck stopped, angling toward George offering a perfect shot. Aiming just in front of the shoulder would angle the bolt straight into the vitals. He squeezed and the arrow flew. There was a loud hollow thwack as the arrow struck, the big buck whirled and sprinted out of sight. The second buck stood for a second then turned and ran. Unbelievably, it had a larger rack than the first! George immediately recognized the sound signified a solid hit and was confident the shot was a lethal one.
ment sought about $1.4 billion in tax relief while offering 66 on-site jobs. He also questioned incentives that reward industrial development agencies based on the size of investments rather than community benefits. While acknowledging Congress has no direct authority over those state agencies, he said his economic priorities would emphasize helping small businesses survive, expand and hire. Langworthy extended his argument for local control to wind and solar development. Although he personally opposes wind turbines and solar farms, he said communities should decide whether projects fit their needs. He called for repealing New York’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, arguing that the state’s
pursuit of net-zero emissions burdens residents and discourages growth. “The law is a wet blanket on growth,” he said. He said uncertainty over electrification requirements discourages housing construction and that households should retain multiple heating options, particularly during severe winters.
Darkness fell, his friend arriving soon after. Both hunters methodically combed the area and the direction the deer bolted searching for blood. Not a drop could be discovered. Rather than blunder around in the thick cover and risk spooking the buck up of his bed if hit hard, they decided to return in the morning. It was a long, restless, sleepless night for George. Just the possibility that such a trophy might escape and die unfound on his friend’s property after such a generous invitation was very disturbing. At first light they returned. George knelt and, on his knees, prayed for guidance and the successful recovery of the deer. Almost immediately he received a strong impression of which direction to go and the type of cover to look for. Less than 20 minutes later, following this inspiration, he recognized the area and immediately saw huge antlers hung up in a thick bush. He almost cried with relief and joy at the sight. The arrow hit exactly where aimed. The huge 9-point’s rack was phenomenal and field dressed; the buck weighed 215 pounds with an incredible 52” chest! Charts for chest measurement/weight stop at 48”! This placed the buck’s live weight at 300 pounds or more. Wow! Truly the buck of a lifetime. Congratulations George, I’m sure you’re thrilled beyond words you choose to return to the sport you love so deeply and which can be so rewarding. (Email Wade Robertson at wadewrites3006@gmail.com.)
➡Langworthy, Gies continued from PAGE 2 local governments cannot be expected to replace all lost federal assistance.
as “socialized medicine” and a government takeover. He said expanded government involvement would give officials too much influence over decisions affecting patients and families, while requiring additional taxpayer funding. He favors price transparency to help lower costs. Gies also called for reversing federal Medicaid cuts, arguing that reductions threaten services for students with disabilities, particularly in rural school districts with limited resources. He said state and
Data centers and local control Both candidates expressed concern that data centers, which require huge amounts of electricity, could increase other customers’ electricity costs, but differed over how development should be regulated. Langworthy accused Gies and Gov. Kathy Hochul of favoring state authority over decisions he believes should belong to local officials
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and residents. “If something that large is coming into a community, local people need to be at the front of that discussion, not the back,” he said. He said he has worked on federal legislation intended to require data centers to generate their own electricity, preventing added demand from raising other customers’ bills. Gies supported Hochul’s statewide moratorium on new large data centers, announced in July, and called for stronger requirements governing locations and environmental effects. He raised concerns about electricity demand, water use and whether permanent jobs justify developers’ requests for tax incentives. Citing figures he attributed to developer Stream, Gies said a proposed $19 billion invest-
Foreign policy differences Langworthy defended military action intended to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, but said he had not seen evidence that an Iranian nuclear threat was imminent. He favors diplomacy and said he would need a clearer mission before supporting funding or authorization for ground troops or an invasion. He opposed a fixed withdrawal deadline, arguing that announcing one could create risks. Gies criticized Trump’s military action against Iran as costly and lacking a clear focus beyond “dropping bombs.” He also advocated conditioning U.S. aid to Israel to pressure its
government to change its conduct in Gaza. Gies said he believes Israel is committing genocide and argued that assistance provides leverage Washington should use while preserving the relationship. Langworthy identified relations with Canada as an area where he has differed with the Trump administration. He called for an end to insults and a bilateral agreement addressing trade disputes, while arguing that Canada maintains unfair barriers affecting American producers.
Campaigning across the district Langworthy said his office’s work with local officials, businesses and residents remains central to his campaign. “I just don’t come around around election time,” he said. “I come around year round.” Gies, whose campaign included 100 town halls over several weeks leading to Election Day, said prosperity should extend across political affiliations, income levels and generations. “This district deserves to thrive,” he said.
allegany county Community Source
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October 30, 2026
home improvement
How to elevate your home using nature-inspired colors
(BPT) — The desire to bring the outdoors in continues to inspire homeowners and designers alike. Natural, earthy neutrals and a variety of green shades are key to this trend as it encompasses more areas of the home. In fact, according to independent research among homeowners, the vast majority of consumers (88%) are interested in color palettes other than white and chrome for their next kitchen or bath remodel, with a preference toward neutrals and earth tones like greens. So if stark white
kitchens and baths are no longer trending, how can you celebrate natural neutrals and greens in these spaces? To help you get started, Kohler now offers a variety of bath and kitchen essentials in these colors, merging modern and vintage aesthetics to bring a sense of tranquility and timeless style into the busiest rooms of your home. “The healing power of nature helps explain why we’re drawn to these colors,” said Alex Yacavone, Senior Manager at Kohler, Industrial Design Studio. “Greens and earthy
neutrals effectively create a serene, soothing environment to elevate any room.”
Neutral elements for a timeless, natureinspired style When you look at what creates timeless interior design, it’s clear that it’s rooted in thoughtful materials, classic silhouettes and livable color. Elements of nature, paired with classic design details, ensure these spaces remain relevant and comforting over time. Born out of an appreciation for craftsmanship from previous centuries, bath and kitchen options from Kohler embrace the quiet beauty of neutrals that can make an elevated statement in their own right. Looking for a stylish bathroom addition? The Artifacts Cast Iron Free Standing Bath in Dune is inspired by the charm of turn-of-the-century homes, like a vintage
treasure rediscovered but enhanced by the comforts of modern design - such as a gently curved rim for added neck support. You can also customize your Artifacts bath with a set of ornate ball-and-claw feet. Creating a stunning focal point inspired by studio pottery, the Derring Oval Sink in Bourbon Rutile celebrates the beauty and authenticity of handcrafted ceramics. Each sink is finished with unique artisanal glazes that produce fascinating surface effects, with a hand-carved texture that accentuates the glaze’s subtle tonal variations. If you’ve always wanted a sink that embraces farmhouse style, the streamlined apronfront Whitehaven Cast Iron in Truffle is perfect for remodeling projects. The Self-Trimming design requires only a continued on PAGE 8
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October 30, 2026
allegany county Community Source
home improvement rough cut to new or existing 30-inch standard cabinetry for simple installation and beautiful results. Crafted from enameled cast iron, the sink resists chipping, cracking or burning
for years of beauty and reliable performance. In exploring nature, people are drawn not only to the earthy neutrals that bring calm and familiarity to interiors, but also to the pops
of green that breathe life into a space without overwhelming it.
Lasting shades of green With the Kohler Heritage Greens collection, you can transform your kitchen and bath using bold, nature-inspired hues. This collection is inspired by carefully curated iconic greens from the Kohler archives, brought back to life in current kitchen and bath products. Inspired by the beauty of the outdoors, these shades are perfectly suited for classic or contemporary designs, and will blend effortlessly with your existing decor: • Fresh Green (1971) is a lively shade reminiscent of a spring garden, ideal for adding bright energy to kitchens and bathrooms. • Aspen Green (1978) captures serene
tones of mountain pines for a calming color that works as a neutral or makes a statement in any space. • Teal (1987) is a deep, dramatic green/blue blend that infuses striking, nature-inspired character into your design vision.
collection along with vintage-inspired Stately design, combining performance with traditional style. Neutral, nature-inspired colors and finishes can lead to
grounded spaces that feel connected to the natural world, evoking a fresh, timeless appeal that’s versatile and welcoming. Come home to the colors of nature at Kohler.com.
Bringing greens into the kitchen or bathroom allows you to experiment with nature’s neutral hues that pair with a wide range of design aesthetics. Kohler’s Heritage colors showcase the versatility of green by offering a serene, calming atmosphere with Aspen Green and a deeper, moodier tone with Teal. The differences in hue demonstrate how green carries a lasting appeal, showcasing how green can sit in modern and classic spaces alike. Searching for a piece that draws inspiration from traditional furniture and architectural elements? The Memoirs Stately Pedestal Sink in Teal offers crisp, clean lines evoking the splendor of fine antiques. Similarly, the Memoirs Stately Toilet in Aspen Green features the elegant architectural look of the Memoirs
Allegany County Land Bank seeks applicants for home repair program BY BOB CLARK
BELMONT — Income-eligible homeowners can get statebacked help with fixing their homes in Allegany County. The Allegany County Land Bank Corporation announced the launch of a new Home Repair Program this week, helping income-eligible Allegany County homeowners address critical repairs and remain safely in
their homes. The program is being made possible through a $2 million allocation from New York State Homes and Community Renewal’s Land Bank Initiative announced in April. Through the program, eligible homeowners may receive assistance of up to $40,000 per property for necessary repairs, with priority placed on projects addressing health and safety
concerns, structural deficiencies, and critical building systems. “Our goal is simple: help Allegany County residents preserve the homes they already own,” said land bank Executive Director Jason Isaman. “A failing roof, unsafe electrical system, deteriorated foundation, or other major repair can quickly become more than a homeowner can handle. This program gives us another tool to
stabilize homes before they become vacant, distressed, or beyond repair.” Land bank officials believe the program will help between five and 10 households, with $150,000 allocated directly to owner-occupied homes or vacant rental units. Beyond the immediate repairs, the Land Bank expects the investment to help preserve existing housing, improve neighborhood conditions,
support local contractors, protect property values, and allow residents to remain in their communities. The state has allocated more than $160 million to land banks statewide, helping create or preserve 300 homes and demolishing almost 200 blighted properties. Allegany County’s land bank has been awarded more than $4.5 million, officials said, since it was founded in 2016.
To apply or for more information, call (585) 268-7472 Ext. 7, email alleganycountylandbank@gmail.com or visit www.aclbc. org. The land bank will use a Request for Application process, with potential applicants completing a short request form to screen for preliminary eligibility. Those who appear to meet those requirements will then be invited to submit a full application.