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Alfred • Allentown • Alma • Andover • Angelica • Belfast • Belmont • Bolivar • Caneadea • Ceres • Cuba • FilLmore • Friendship • Genesee Houghton • little genesee • portville • richburg • Rushford • Scio • shinglehouse • Ulysses • Wellsville • west clarksville • Whitesville
Cold doesn’t stop Wreaths Across America in Allegany County BY KATHRYN ROSS
SCIO — A bitter wind was blowing and snowflakes were in the air Dec. 13 when about two dozen volunteers gathered in a snow-covered Fairlawn Cemetery for Scio’s first Wreaths Across America. Co-coordinator of the event Brandi Wiech explained the 2:30 p.m. time slot was due to a scheduling conflict with the color guard from American Legion Post 702, which had partici-
pated in the Whitesville program at noon. Scio’s program got its start just two weeks ago when the Hometown Heroes Committee decided to take on the project, Wiech explained. Wreaths Across America is a nationwide program that takes place in over 56,000 cemeteries, including military cemeteries overseas and in U.S. territories, and in seven towns in Allegany County. Joanne White, the
other co-coordinator, said that 176 sponsored wreaths were to be placed in the Fairlawn Cemetery honoring veterans from all branches of the military. There are 256 veterans buried in Fairlawn Cemetery. With the help from WAA groups in Cuba, Belmont and Whitesville, the Hometown Heroes were able to acquire 176 wreaths. White said the Hometown Heroes
Photo by Kathryn Ross Brandi Wiech places wreath on veteran’s grave in Fairlawn Cemetery in Scio’s first Wreaths Across America tribute.
Wreaths Across America continued on PAGE 5
Tyler Shaw joins Jones Memorial board; hospital on Forbes top list WELLSVILLE — The Jones Memorial Hospital Board of Directors has welcomed Tyler Shaw of Wellsville, public health director at the Allegany County Department of Health, as a new member. Shaw is a 2010 graduate of Keuka College, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in biology, and went on to receive his Master’s in Healthcare Administration in 2017. Dedicated to both his country and his community, Shaw has served in the U.S. Army Reserve since 2011 and was promoted to the rank of major in March 2023. Shaw has served on
Tyler Shaw
numerous committees and boards, including Ardent Solutions and Universal Primary Care as a board member, Allegany County Safety Committee and Allegany County Hazard Mitigation Team and the Board
of Directors for the New York State Association of County Health Officials, among others. “It is a true privilege and honor to be welcomed onto the Jones Memorial Hospital Board of Directors,” Shaw said. “As a resident of this county and region, I am excited to lend my voice and expertise to help guide an institution that has been, and continues to be, so deeply committed to providing excellent care in our hometown setting.” Dan Johnson, board chairman, said, “Tyler Shaw is a leader in the local community as well as the medical commu-
nity. He will bring a strong voice and dedication to the Jones Memorial Hospital board and its mission to advance access to healthcare in our rural communities. We are confident that his vision for the future of healthcare in our region and expertise in navigating the challenges of public health in a rural setting will be assets to this organization.” The board also elected new officers in 2025. Johnson, of Wellsville, was elected chairman after previously serving as vice chair. Jenny Bilotta of Cuba was elected vice chair after previously serving as treasurer. Jim Knapp of Wellsville was
Dan Johnson
elected treasurer after previously serving as secretary and Dr. Steven Mauro of Alfred was elected secretary.
JONES INCLUDED ON FORBES TOP HOSPITAL LIST
Top Hospital 2026 list — a list of top general acute care hospitals in the nation, based on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Provider Data Catalog (PDC) and Forbes’ own methodology, includes Jones Memorial Hospital. Jim Helms, president and CEO at JMH, said, “I couldn’t be prouder of our staff and associates. We are all given the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of our communities, and it’s incredible to see our people making the choice to seize that opportunity every day.”
The inaugural Forbes
Jones Memorial continued on PAGE 4
We will be closing at 6pm on Christmas Eve and Closed on Christmas Day so that our Associates can enjoy Christmas with their family and friends.
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allegany county Community Source
Articulation agreement creates pathways to Alfred State for Jefferson CC students ALFRED — Computer Information Technology, Computer Information Systems, and Computer Science students at Jefferson
Community College can pre-plan their college careers with an articulation agreement with Alfred State College. The agreement
includes guaranteed admission and significant guaranteed scholarships to JCC graduates. ASC Vice President for Academic Affairs
From left, Kishan Zuber, vice president for enrollment management at ASC; Dr. Carrie Cokely, vice president of academic affairs at ASC; Carey Goyette, provost, vice president of academic and student sffairs at Jefferson CC; Donna Stevenson, associate vice president of health professions and business at Jefferson; and Paul Keller, associate vice president of enrollment at Jefferson, celebrate an articulation agreement that will allow Jefferson graduates in the computer information technology, computer information systems, and computer science to transfer to Alfred State seamlessly.
Carrie Cokely and Jefferson CC Provost, Vice President of Academic & Student Affairs Carey Goyette celebrated the agreement at a ceremony held in the Fireside Lounge of the John W. Deans Collaborative Learning Center in Watertown. Under the agreement, graduates of Jefferson’s Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Computer Information Technology and Associate in Science (A.S.) in Computer Information Systems or Computer Science can seamlessly enter ASC’s Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.) in Information Technology: Application Software Development, Network Administration, or Web Development with full junior status. “Alfred State is excited to partner with Jefferson CC to offer
this opportunity to their students,” commented Cokely, “By introducing guaranteed admissions pathways into Alfred State’s bachelor’s degree programs students can begin their academic journey knowing that their next step to a fouryear degree is promised.” “This partnership reflects the strong academic foundation our technology programs provide,” said Goyette. “Jefferson is proud to offer graduates a seamless pathway to Alfred State, ensuring they can complete their bachelor’s degree on time with a clear, structured plan for success.” Cokely continued, “This agreement is strengthened by guaranteed scholarships to Jefferson CC students who transfer to Alfred State. We know today’s
students are financially savvy and we want to help them achieve all their academic goals.” Scholarship guarantees can cover up to half of ASC’s annual tuition, before any federal or state financial aid is applied, making the pathway one of the most affordable in the region. Students interested in learning more about the dual admission transfer agreement should contact the Alfred State admissions office. Cokely and ASC Vice President for Enrollment Management Kishan Zuber got the chance to see and interact with current Jefferson students on a tour of campus led by Associate Vice President of Enrollment Services Paul Keller.
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December 19, 2025
Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act now goes to president’s desk The U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation Monday that would allow schools the option of serving whole, 2%, 1% and skim-flavored or plain milk as part of school meals. The House passed the measure a month after the Senate approved the legislation, which overturns 2012 rules that allowed only fat-free or 1% milk to be served in schools. The measure now heads to President Donald Trump’s desk for his signature. The action by Congress came as U.S. Senate
Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer, D-N.Y., visited a dairy farm Monday in Columbia County to give his support to the measure that he and other lawmakers said has hurt Upstate dairy farms. Schumer used his stop Monday in Columbia County to also announce he’s completed his annual tour of all 62 New York state counties, for what his office reported is a record 27th year in a row. “Traveling to every corner of the Empire State, meeting with New
Yorkers from every walk of life, it’s what energizes me,” the senator stated. “Every year, I am reminded of why I do this tour. Every person I meet, every story stays with me and inspires my daily work in Washington.” On the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, Schumer said: “It is time to bring whole milk back to school lunches. Milk is one of the best and healthiest options to give students the nutrition they need to learn and grow, and it has been restricted in our
schools, hurting upstate dairy farmers, for far too long.” His office said the measure “highlights the health benefits milk provides to students, including better bone health, lower blood pressure, and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease or Type 2 diabetes.” They cited dietary guidelines that said milk also contains two nutrients — calcium and vitamin D — that are often under-consumed. Those guidelines also found that children who drink whole milk may
➡Jones Memorial continued from PAGE 1 He added the recognition is “not the culmination of our progress, but rather the commencement. As we strive to be ‘Ever Better’ with the support of our partners at UR Medicine, we will continue to bring advanced health care close to home — through provider recruitment, new technology and expanded
service lines.” The methodology to choose the hospitals was broken down into four pillars with varying weights — outcomes, best practices, value and patient experience. Jones joins 151 small hospitals nationwide that qualified for Forbes analysis by earning a CMS 4-star rating out of 754 hospitals that were
automotive
evaluated. The hospital also received top marks in the Forbes analysis (5 stars) in outcomes with measures such as surgical site infections, complications, 30-day readmission rates, 30day mortality rates for heart failure patients, stroke patients and heart attack patients and unplanned hospital stays. Jones also scored high for value including measures such as the hospital’s use of Medicaid and Medicare, and
billing for unnecessary services and tests. Dr. Kevin McCormick, chief medical officer at Jones, said, “This recognition reflects more than a national achievement—it represents our unwavering commitment to the patients and families we serve every day. Quality isn’t an initiative for us; it’s a culture. We are proud to deliver nationally recognized care while staying deeply rooted in our community.”
have less risk of being obese — the opposite of the 2012 rules that were intended to limit fat consumption in children. There are nearly 3,000 dairy farms in New York that produce over 16.1 billion pounds of milk annually, making it the nation’s fifth largest dairy state. “We are incredibly excited to see the passage of this legislation, which has been a top policy priority for New York Farm Bureau,” said Ashley Sardo, manager of national affairs for the bureau. “This act will allow greater market opportunities for New York dairy farmers, while also providing essential nutrients to children in
school meals.” U.S. Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson, R-Pa., whose 15th District includes McKean and Potter counties, said his signature legislation provides schools with the flexibility to offer flavored and unflavored whole and 2% milk options, helping ensure children receive the nutrition they need to grow, thrive, and succeed in the classroom. “I have worked for a decade to restore whole milk to our school cafeterias, which have been limiting healthy choices for students, but that changes today,” Thompson, chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture, stated Monday.
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December 19, 2025
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Op-Ed: Renewing the call for the PROTECT Act BY SEN. TOM O’MARA
I stood with colleagues in the Senate Republican Conference earlier this month to renew our call for what will be one of our top priorities when a new legislative session gets underway in January: Stop ignoring dangerousness. More specifically: Approve the PROTECT Act. We’re targeting a policy set in motion in 2019 under then-Gov. Andrew Cuomo and a Democrat-majority Legislature that enacted far-reaching bail and
discovery law reforms. These so-called reforms have been widely criticized as failures by law enforcement throughout this state. They’ve had an alarming impact on crime victims and public safety overall. Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt of North Tonawanda has summed it up this way: “Albany Democrats would rather handcuff our judges instead of criminals and this has resulted in more dangerous individuals in the community instead of in jail. …I t’s time my colleagues in the Capitol wake up to the realization their policies
have failed and we must prioritize public safety. The PROTECT Act is the first step to restoring sanity to our communities.” In other words, Albany Democrat policies have been pro-criminal and not pro-victim. From bail and discovery reforms to equally questionable parole reforms to the ongoing dismantling of New York’s correctional system, criminal justice under total one-party rule has been a spectacular — and a spectacularly dangerous — jailbreak. Many of us agree that changes for fairness to the accused were warranted. However, the 2019 policies went far too far in the wrong direction. They have proven unworkable. Thousands upon thousands of criminal cases have been dismissed in some prosecutors’
offices. The impact on crime victims has been unacceptable. The consequences for community safety and security have been equally destructive. In May 2023, shortly after finalizing the enactment of a state budget that, at best, paid lip service to the need to end New York’s failed No Bail experiment, Gov. Hochul declared, “We are done with bail. We accomplished what we needed to do.” No, we did not. We have not accomplished anything meaningful to fix an exceedingly dangerous law, one that continues to put local law enforcement and local communities at risk. It’s the reason our conference is now behind the PROTECT Act (S2282) introduced by my Finger Lakes legislative colleague,
➡Wreaths Across America continued from PAGE 1
also sponsored several wreaths with funds leftover from the Veteran’s Banner program which it sponsors. “We thought it was important to honor Scio’s veterans in this way,” she said Pulling the event off in less than two weeks Weich said was a learning curve, but the group had help from Mary Lindquist of Cuba, who started the event four years ago in Cuba, Susie Thomas in Belmont who organizes the event there, and Jan Talbett, who organizes the Whitesville program. “We got a lot of help and learned what we can do to raise sponsorships for next year,” Wiech said. Next year, the Hometown Heroes would like to place wreaths on veteran’s graves in the Knights Creek Cemetery, Saint Joseph’s Cemetery and Palmer Cemetery. Sponsoring a wreath is just $17 and can be accomplished by calling Wiech at (585) 610-3582 or White at (585) 6102856. The Scio Wreaths Across America ceremony started at the flagpoles with a flag and gun salute and “Taps” played by members of the American Legion Post 702 color guard. Emma Elliott sang ‘The Star-Spangled Banner.” Speaker Adam Wiech reminded the group that freedom isn’t free. “We have the veterans buried in this cemetery to thank for our freedom,” he said After individual wreaths were placed — for the Army by Jack Kinney, Marines by John Young, Navy by Ron Washburn, Air Force by Robert Waide, Space Force by Dennis White, Coast Guard by Janet Riley, Merchant Marine by Robert Davenport and POWs by Yvonne Simmons — nearly two dozen volunteers spread out across the sprawling
snow covered cemetery to place wreaths on veterans’ graves. Contact the Hometown Heroes to sponsor a wreath or to help organize the 2026 event.
state Sen. Pam Helming, a measure I cosponsor and strongly support. This legislation, which has drawn bipartisan support, has been developed with direct input from sheriffs, district attorneys, and other law enforcement leaders, as well as community faith leaders. It would give judges a tool to evaluate whether violent offenders should be held pretrial or released. Additionally, the PROTECT Act recognizes the ongoing mental health crisis in this state and would allow courts
to order proper evaluation and treatment for individuals who pose an immediate risk to themselves or others. It’s a straightforward measure. We believe the PROTECT Act would have a dramatic impact to strengthen safety and security in this state and finally begin turning around an approach to law and order that has been careless — and clueless. The Albany Democrat bail and discovery reforms remain the law of the land and a public policy PROTECT Act continued on PAGE 9
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allegany county Community Source
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December 19, 2025
home improvement
A guide to survive lengthy home renovations Renovations can transform homes into spaces that mirror homeowners’ dreams. Regardless of the scope of a project, a home renovation will involve some level of disruption to residents’ daily lives. Lengthy, more involved
projects may impact daily life considerably. Renovation timelines vary depending on the scale of the project. Painting may take a week or two, while a kitchen or bathroom remodel may last anywhere from four to 16
weeks. Larger projects like adding a room can take between three and six months, say the experts at John Merrill Homes. Projects also often take longer than expected, as surprises may be in store once homeowners begin peeling back the layers in homes. Homeowners about to embark on lengthy renovation proj-
ects can embrace these tips to come through on the other side relatively unscathed.
Choose your timing
The timing of a renovation may have to coincide with contractor availability or having the budget to fund the project. But homeowners should consider life circumstances and season before starting a project. You might not have the energy to take on a project right before the holidays. If kids play on sports teams that require a lot of travel, it might be better to wait until the season winds down. Figure out what you can realistically take continued on PAGE 8
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allegany county Community Source
home improvement on to reduce the likelihood that you’ll feel overwhelmed. Plan accordingly Creating and sticking to a daily schedule, and knowing what is happening each day, can keep a project on track. It also allows you to determine which days will be the most chaotic.
Demolition days can be noisy and messy, and maybe those are days when you plan to be away from the house for a few hours.
Store items out of harm’s way
Invest in a storage solution for the duration of the renovation. De-
cluttering and removing items before the project is in full force will make it easier to work and maneuver, and it also means fewer items will need to be cleaned afterwards. Renovations tend to kick up a lot of construction dust, after all.
Designate a safe zone
Establish a room or rooms as work-free areas to which residents can retreat. If multiple rooms are being renovated, you might consider spending time with a family member or friend, or getting a hotel for a
short duration until the bulk of disruption dies down.
Lower your standards
Homecooked meals may be your standard most days of the week, but it’s alright to be a bit lax when remodeling projects begin. Relying on frozen foods or takeout might be necessary for a little while. Remodeling projects can be disruptive and stressful, but certain strategies can make it easier to get through projects without too much disruption.
Late jobless reports show unemployment up in September BY BOB CLARK
Local unemployment rates were higher in September than they were a year ago, state and federal officials said in government shutdown-delayed reports. The state Department of Labor reported that Allegany County’s unemployment rate was 4.3% in September, down from 4.7% in August but up a point from 3.3% in September 2024. The labor force was 19,800 in September, up 1,700 from August and about 600 from September 2024. The employed labor force was 18,900 in September, up from 17,200 in August and
about 300 from September 2024. The unemployed labor force was 800 in September, down 100 from August but up 200 from September 2024. Cattaraugus County’s unemployment rate was 4.1% in September, down from 4.4% in August but up almost a point from 3.3% in September 2024. Data announcements, which come in part from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, was paused during the federal government shutdown in October and November. The labor force was 33,000 in September, up 1,400 from August and about 400 from Septem-
2,800 state households each month. The rates are not adjusted for seasonal variations — with rates typically peaking in January or February. Allegany County’s unemployment peaked this year in January at 5.5%, while the Cattaraugus County rate peaked in February at 5.3%.
ber 2024. The employed labor force was 31,600 in September, up 1,400 from August and steady from September 2024. The unemployed labor force was 1,400 in September, steady from August but up 300 from September 2024.
All rates come from surveys and methods created by the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics, and the State’s area unemployment rates rely in part on the results of the Current Population Survey, which contacts around
STATEWIDE, THE unemployment rate was 4.2%, up from 4% in August but down from 4.4% in September 2024. The highest county unemployment rate was 7.9% in Bronx County. The highest rate outside of New York City was 4.7% in St. Lawrence County, followed by 4.3% in Allegany,
Broome, Chautauqua and Otsego counties. The lowest unemployment rate was 3.1% in Saratoga and Wyoming counties, followed by 3.2% in Essex, Genesee, and Putnam counties. NATIONWIDE, THE unemployment rate was 4.3%, down from 4.5% in August but up from 3.9% in September 2024, according to the BLS. The highest unemployment rate was 5.5% in California, followed by 5.3% in Nevada and 5.2% in Michigan. The lowest unemployment rate was 1.9% in South Dakota, followed by 2.5% in North Dakota and Vermont.
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December 19, 2025
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Allegany County lawmakers adopt Animal Abuser Registry BELMONT — Allegany County lawmakers unanimously adopted a local law establishing a county Animal Abuser Registry, which will identify individuals who have been convicted of animal abuse offenses. The Board of Legislators noted that individuals who abuse animals are statistically more
likely to commit violent acts against people, and research shows a strong correlation between animal abuse and domestic violence. Legislator Gretchen Hanchett, who was instrumental in advancing the legislation, emphasized the significance of the new law. “The Allegany
County Animal Abuser Registry is vital because animal cruelty is often tied to other forms of violence, and this registry helps protect both animals and our community,” Hanchett said. Sheriff Scott Cicirello also commended the adoption of the registry. “In my career, I have been involved in
dozens of animal abuse investigations,” he said. “Beyond a simple fine, the consequences to those convicted of animal abuse related crimes have been minimal.” The sheriff said the legislation designating the registry provides far-reaching consequences to those convicted of what he called
horrific crimes. “This legislation is an excellent example of what can be accomplished when county offices work together for a common goal,” Cicirello said, commending the efforts of the board with special recognition given to Hanchett, Steven A. Havey and Chairman Brooke Harris as well as
County Administrator Carissa Knapp, County Attorney Allison Carrow, District Attorney Ian Jones and Sheriff’s Office personnel. The law takes effect Jan. 1 and the district attorney will be responsible for prosecuting violations, county officials noted.
more than half of New Yorkers, nearly 55%, are very or somewhat concerned that they could be a victim of crime. Law enforcement and crime victims, particularly those victimized by a perpetrator out on the street as a result of the cashless bail law, are behind the PROTECT Act. One prominent critic of the current policies, Suffolk County District
Attorney Ray Tierney, stood with us and said, “Since taking office in 2022, I have staunchly advocated that for defendants who pose a threat to public safety, dangerousness must be considered as a factor for judges in setting bail. Inexplicably, New York is the only state that turns a blind eye to dangerousness, even when deciding bail for those charged with
violent felonies including terrorism, rape, and murder. The PROTECT Act is commonsense legislation.” He’s right. He targets the key point: It’s time to stop ignoring dangerousness. New York remains the only state in America not allowing courts to consider public safety when making pretrial custody decisions. Keep this point
squarely in mind: New York is the only state in America approaching criminal justice in this way. It’s time for New York state to allow judges to start keeping behind bars the dangerous and violent criminals who belong there. (State Sen. Tom O’Mara, R-Big Flats, represents the 58th Senatorial District of New York.)
➡PROTECT Act continued from PAGE 5 that just keeps waiting for the next victim. The criminals in this society know it. An overriding policy of no consequences for far too many bad actors remains in place and innocent, hard-working, law-abiding, responsible New Yorkers remain at risk because of it. The PROTECT Act would begin to change it. It would create a judicial risk-assessment tool
to help judges determine whether individuals charged with violent crimes should be kept behind bars awaiting trial. “We have accomplished what we needed to do,” Gov. Hochul proclaimed in May 2023. New Yorkers and New York law enforcement, throughout the state, have begged to disagree. Statewide polls have shown that
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health & Wellness
5 simple ways to fight the winter blues (BPT) — Have you noticed that you feel a little low during the winter months? You’re not alone. As daylight hours shorten and temperatures drop, many people experience lower energy and mood, often called the “winter blues.” Luckily, there are easy steps you can take to lift your spirits, so you can continue to feel energetic no matter how cold and dark it is outside. Check out these five simple tips from Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner that can help keep the winter blues away this season.
Move in ways that feel good
Moving during the colder months is key to keeping yourself happy and healthy during the winter. You don’t have to incorporate an intensive workout. Instead, focus on moving your body in a way that feels comfortable to you. Stretching, dancing, yoga or a brisk walk around your neighborhood can boost your circulation and mood throughout the dark and cold months of the year.
Prevent energy crashes by limiting added sugar
Added sugars in your food and drinks may temporarily boost your energy. However, the sudden spike in blood sugar can quickly lead to a “sugar crash,” leaving you tired and irritable. This winter, be mindful of what you’re eating and limit added sugars, so you can prevent energy crashes and mood dips throughout your day.
Reset your rhythm with light therapy
The short and dark winter days can disrupt your circadian rhythm,
stirring and pour egg mixture into skillet over vegetables. Mix well. 5. With a spatula, press vegetables down into an even layer under egg mixture. Cook without stirring until eggs are set on bottom, about 5 minutes. (Center will be wet.) Transfer to broiler. Broil 4-5 inches from heat source for 2 minutes or until eggs are set. 6. Cut into wedges. 7. Drop on spoonfuls of yogurt and sprinkle the remaining one tablespoon thyme over frittata before serving.
leading to poor sleep, lower energy and even a grumpy disposition. Consider starting your day by sipping a cup of coffee in front of a light therapy lamp. A light therapy lamp mimics natural sunlight, which can help reset your body’s rhythm when daylight is short. Just 15 minutes a day can make a difference! If a lamp isn’t available, bundle up and go on a morning walk because even cloudy natural light can support your sleepwake cycle.
Stay connected
It can be challenging to see your friends and family when the weather is cold, rainy and snowy. However, staying connected with your loved ones is vital to maintaining high spirits during the dark winter months. Get into the habit of making quick phone calls to catch up, sharing a meal or planning a fun activity to nurture your relationships and keep feelings of isolation at bay.
Start your morning with vitamin-rich meals
Starting the day with a meal that fuels your body and lifts your mood is a simple yet effective way to weather the winter months. When choosing a breakfast recipe, look for meals that are rich in Vitamin D - which strengthens immune cells so they can defend against harmful bacteria - and Vitamin E - which acts as an antioxidant to reduce oxidative stress and protects your cells from damage. Try this Shiitake Mushroom & Red Bell Pepper Frittata with Smoked Salmon recipe using Eggland’s Best eggs. These eggs contain six times more Vitamin
D and 10 times more Vitamin E compared to ordinary eggs to help support your energy, mood and overall wellness all winter long.
Shiitake Mushroom & Red Bell Pepper Frittata with Smoked Salmon Prep time: 12 minutes Cook time: 12 minutes Yield: 14 Ingredients • 6 Eggland’s Best eggs, large • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 6 ounces shiitake mushrooms stems
minced fine, caps sliced 1/4” wide • 6 ounces red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric • 3 tablespoons milk, preferably almond or oat milk • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme, divided • 1/4 teaspoon salt • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper • 4 ounces smoked salmon, coarsely chopped • 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
Hart Bros. & Sons Memorials Jerome J. Hart – Founder Memorials • Cemetery Lettering • Urns Pet Memorials • Yard Decorations
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SALES OFFICE: 45 South Main Street • P.O. Box 434 • Wellsville, NY 14895 Phone: (585) 593-2393 • Fax: (585) 593-2343 Serving the surrounding areas of Western NY & PA. Stop in at your convenience or call for an appointment.
Preparation 1. Heat a 10-inch skillet with sloped sides over medium heat. Add olive oil. After 30 seconds, add mushroom caps and bell pepper. Cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. 2. Preheat broiler. 3. In a medium bowl, beat together eggs, milk, 1 tablespoon of thyme, and salt and pepper. Stir in smoked salmon. Set aside. 4. Add turmeric and black pepper to the skillet, stirring for a few seconds. Stop
Recipe Notes: Crimini mushrooms may replace the shiitake mushrooms but with less savoriness. Two teaspoons dried thyme may replace the fresh thyme. Crush the dried herb for extra aroma. Lox that is not salty may replace the smoked salmon. Just a few simple tweaks to your day can help you fight the winter blues, so you can continue to thrive no matter the weather. To find more recipes to start your winter mornings with energy and drive, visit EgglandsBest.com.
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December 19, 2025
allegany county Community Source
STOP-DWI holiday campaign is already underway
Sending Our Best Wishes & Gratitude May your home be filled with laughter. May your days be filled with peace. May your heart be filled with joy.
To all our readers and our many advertisers, Thank You sincerely for supporting our business in 2025. We hope to serve this community for many more years to come!
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While Christmas and New Year’s are still several days away, law enforcement in New York state has already started its annual campaign to watch for impaired drivers. The STOP-DWI Impaired Driving High Visibility Engagement Campaign started Dec. 10 and runs through Jan. 1. New York State Police as well as county sheriff’s deputies and local police are taking part. During the festidve season of parties and gatherings, law enforcement agencies urge drivers to: • Plan a safe ride home. • Call a taxi, a ride service or a sober friend. • Wait it out — spend the night — stay where you are. • Help save a life — if someone has been consuming drugs or alcohol, do not let that person get behind the wheel. Take their keys and help them arrange a safe ride home. Highly visible, highly publicized efforts like the STOP-DWI High Visibility Engagement Campaign aim to reduce further the incidence of drunk and impaired of drunk and impaired driving. Officials say STOP-DWI efforts across the state have led to significant reductions in the number of alcohol and drug-related fatalities, However, too many lives are still impacted because of
crashes caused by drunk or impaired drivers. In Allegany County, Administrator Carissa M. Knapp and county legislators gave special recognition this past week to individuals and agencies that have contributed to the success of STOP-DWI throughout the past year. The holiday season campaign is one of many statewide initiatives promoted by STOP-DWI NY and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. The campaign also targets Memorial Day, July 4, Labor Day/end of summer, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Super Bowl weekend and St.
Patrick’s Day. “Highly visible, highly publicized efforts like the STOP-DWI High Visibility Engagement Campaign aim to further reduce the incidence of drunk and impaired driving,” campaign organizers said in a statement. They urged downloading a mobile app — “‘Have a Plan’ and you will always be able to find a safe ride home. Impaired driving is completely preventable. All it takes is a little planning.”
The Arc AlleganySteuben Awarded $28,500 grant BATH — The Arc Allegany-Steuben, a notfor-profit organization supporting people with disabilities in Allegany and Steuben Counties, has been awarded $28,500 in grants from the Trustee Management Board of NYSARC Trust Services to support The Arc Allegany-Steuben’s guardianship. NYSARC Trust Services administers supplemental needs trusts (SNT) and pooled trusts that can make improvements to the lives of people with disabilities by enabling people to maintain financial eligibility for Medicaid and other means-tested
government benefit programs. For 2025, NYSARC Trust Services has awarded nearly $1.7 million to The Arc New York Chapters statewide. The funding for The Arc Allegany-Steuben will provide guardianship services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who would not otherwise have a legal guardian or advocate. Supported by chapter staff and community volunteers, Arc’s Guardianship Program provides guardianship supports and services to six people.