broken up into other intervals as necessary. Strength and balance training also should be a consideration. Seniors should keep in mind that overdoing intensity or length of workouts may contribute to injury, which can derail efforts to get fit.
Cooking up a kitchen remodel
A successful kitchen renovation project requires careful planning and a detailed vision of what the space will look like upon completion. Whether a homeowner is thinking about giving the kitchen a major overhaul or just a minor refresh, bringing that vision to life doesn’t happen overnight. There is a process that must go into a kitchen renovation. Embarking on a kitchen remodel can be an exciting venture and homeowners may be eager to dive right in, but familiarizing oneself with what to expect prior to the start can help property owners navigate the process more smoothly.
• Inspiration and design: The first phase involves dreaming up kitchen plans and making practical decisions regarding efficiency and functionality. Considerable time may be spent working with a designer and architect, which will involve choosing materials and a color scheme.
• Creating a budget: According to Angi, the average kitchen remodel costs $26,934, but price ultimately varies depending on the scope of the work. Costs may be less or more depending on the size of the kitchen and the materials chosen.
• Demolition: Before a homeowner can have a new kitchen, the old one must be removed. The real physical transformation begins
with the demolition, which tends to be quick but messy. It is essential to set up an alternative “mini kitchen” elsewhere, or expect to be dining out throughout the remodel. The demo process may reveal any issues that will need to be remedied before the real work can begin, such as structural damage, leaks, mold, or other hiccups.
• Contractor work begins: It can take one to three weeks for contractors to install plumbing, mechanical components, electrical wiring, ductwork, and more, followed by structural needs and drywall, according to sink and faucet manufacturer Blanco. Flooring and cabinets will follow, and can take another week or more. Fabricating custom countertops is a lengthy process and can represent the bulk of a kitchen renovation timeline. Expect a few weeks for countertops to be measured, made and
then installed.
• Appliances and finishing touches: Appliances will be delivered and hooked up at the tail end of the renovation. Finally, the backsplash, fixtures and lighting are put into place. The last leg of the remodel will include painting, trim work and installation of hardware on cabinets and drawers.
Once all the work is done, it is essential for homeowners to make sure everything is to their liking. According to HGTV and Kitchy Crouse of CK Interior Design, a regular kitchen renovation can take anywhere from
six to 12 weeks. With so much time devoted to the space, homeowners should ensure it lives up to their expectations.
As the renovation begins, homeowners should remember that unexpected issues can arise, including delays due to material availability or unforeseen challenges. Maintaining an open communication with the contractor, asking questions and remaining flexible helps. Although a kitchen remodel is initially disruptive, it is an investment that ultimately enhances a home’s value.
Cattaraugus County Fair Domestics awards announced
See Page 7
Allegany State Park to host Beach Party on Friday
BY KELLEN M. QUIGLEY
RED HOUSE — Spend
a fun summer evening at the Red House Beach Area as Allegany State Park hosts its annual Beach Party Friday.
All are invited to the free event, 5–9 p.m., featuring live music and kids’ activities at the Red House beach area, including games, a sand castle contest, a Limbo contest and more.
Carrie Busekist, Environmental Educator 2 for the Allegany Region, said the entertainment kicks off at 6 p.m. with Kevin McCarthy, a 2009 Buffalo Music Hall of Fame inductee. McCarthy will give an acoustic guitar performance and is likely to grant song requests.
McCarthy is one of Western New York’s most sought-after entertainers. He is one of the founders of the band McCarthyizm, which
has shared the stage with such bands as The 10,000 Maniacs and The Goo Goo Dolls.
As a solo artist, McCarthy has played all over the United States, Canada and beyond. His energy and interactive show will have everyone out of their seats and dancing.
People in the dancing mode will have the opportunity to show off their Limbo A-game from the southeastern Caribbean Sea. Limbo and sand castle contest winners announced at 7:30 p.m.
“This family-friendly event will also feature activities for all ages, including lawn games and crafts for kids,” Busekist said.
The “Ask the Naturalist” table will feature some interactive displays where park naturalists will be on hand to answer visitors’ questions about the park’s
flora and fauna.
“‘Ask the Naturalist’ provides an exciting opportunity to talk with our environmental educators and ask
questions about all things nature in and around the park,” Busekist added.
Families can sign up for the sand castle contest and put their creativity
to the test, Busekist said. Participants must sign up at the Naturalists’ table. Building starts at 5 p.m. and continues through 7:30.
Red House Beach will be open for swimming from 11 a.m. through 6:30 p.m. People should bring lawn chairs or blankets and can pack a picnic supper if they wish. Busekist said concessionaire Allegany Hospitality will have the snack bar at the beach open until at least 6:30 with the possibility of extended hours.
“There are picnic tables available in and around the beach area. People are more than welcome to bring lawn chairs and blankets,” she said. “Concessions will be open, but they are welcome to bring their own food as well.”
Guests are welcome to enjoy a relaxed evening of family fun and music under the stars. For more information, call (716) 379-6941 or visit the Allegany State Park Facebook page.
Leon hosting town picnic and memories of former Pennyroyal Racetrack
BY DEB EVERTS
LEON — Join in on good old-fashioned fun Saturday at the Leon Town Picnic and learn about the town’s claim to fame — the Pennyroyal Racetrack.
Hosted by Leon’s historical society, fire company and auxiliary, fire commissioners and town board, the free event is open to Leon residents past and present as well as the general public and anyone connected to Leon.
The event begins at the fire hall on New Albion Road at noon, with food served about 1 p.m.
Barbecued chicken and hot dogs will be provided, but attendees are asked to bring a dish to pass. There will be mouthwatering pies for dessert, with many slices coming from the entries of the Pie Baking Contest that will include cash prizes of first place, $25; second, $15; and third, $10. Entrants are asked to bring their donated pie to the fire hall by 11:30 a.m. for judging that will take place at noon.
Other highlights include a huge Wine and Cheese Basket Raffle, a 50/50 Raffle, a door prize and cards. People of all ages will find a variety of activities to enjoy, including games and a sawdust pit for kids, along with pickleball, Cornhole and horseshoes for adults.
Historical society member Myra Johnston said they are doing a huge Wine and Cheese Basket Raffle instead of the usual assortment of smaller
raffle items. “Besides cheese and wine, the basket has raffle tickets, gift certificates, lottery tickets, a handmade cheese board, crackers and all kinds of stuff,” she said. “The door prize is a handmade afghan made by Donna Snyder.”
Johnston said artist Karen Beckman of Florida has donated two beautiful paintings of the Pennyroyal Racetrack to the historical society that will be on display at the picnic and afterward at the 1836 Church in the center of Leon.
THE MAIN FEATURE of the event will be people sharing memories of the Pennyroyal, and anyone who is interested in the
historical track or would like to learn about it.
At their 2016 picnic, residents celebrated the 70th anniversary of the racetrack and its famous connection to NASCAR that put their community on the map many years ago. The once popular racetrack was the springboard for NASCAR winners the late Bill Rexford of Conewango Valley and the late Lloyd Moore of Frewsburg. To this day, Rexford is still the youngest driver to win a championship in what has become the Sprint Cup series at the age of 23.
According to Fred Milliman, curator of the Leon Historical Society Museum, the Pennyroyal Racetrack was built in 1870 as a horse track
along Eldridge Road. It sat empty until members of the Leon Fire Company decided to resurrect the track for autos in 1946.
The dirt track drew racers from across the state, Canada, Western Pennsylvania and beyond for about a decade and was attended by 1,2002,000 spectators at each event.
Until 1960, when racing there dwindled because of bigger tracks, bigger purses and bigger crowds elsewhere, it was considered the fastest half-mile track in Western New York.
The site is now occupied by an Amish farm, but visitors can still see where the track was, and a sign marks the location on the corner of Eldredge and
Town Hill roads.
Johnston said the historical society invited the still-living drivers to the picnic in 2016, where they interviewed them and put their experiences on a DVD. Created by videographer Don Veith of Cattaraugus, the film can be seen at the museum.
“The former drivers talked about the great times they had at the racetrack,” she said. “Sadly, all of the drivers that participated in that interview have since passed. There are still a few men alive that were involved with the track — Ken Both of the North Collins area and Lou Ellsworth of Allegany, who was a photographer for the track.”
A big, new display featuring 100 framed, reproduction photos is at the museum located in the former grange hall along Route 62. Johnston said the originals are put away for protection and safekeeping.
Johnston said the Pennyroyal presentations and exhibits were made possible by a $2,500 grant from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation and volunteers. She said the programs and events are all leading up to the racetrack’s 80th anniversary next year.
“I’m not sure, yet, how we will celebrate Pennyroyal’s 80th anniversary in 2026, but it will be similar to this year’s series of presentations with more speakers. There’s a lot more that can be talked about,” she said. “We have the NASCAR connection. That’s a thing all of its own. One of Bill Rexford’s sons sent us an article that describes the whole thing and we’ll be talking about that at our next presentation in October.” Donations are welcome, and all proceeds go to the Leon Town Picnic Fund.
The historical society will host its next Pennyroyal presentation, “Where Some NASCAR Drivers and Winners Started – Driving to Fame,” at 2 p.m. Oct. 11 at the church located at the four corners in Leon. For more information, visit leonhistoricalsociety. weebly.com or Facebook.
File photo
Leon invites its residents and the public to the annual town picnic Saturday at the fire hall. A group of local drivers who raced at the Pennyroyal Racetrack are shown with the late Bill Rexford of Conewango Valley (far left), who drove in the very first race at the Pennyroyal. At age 23, he is still the youngest driver to win a championship in what has become the NASCAR Sprint Cup series.
Cattaraugus County Microenterprise Assistance Program accepting applications
LITTLE VALLEY —
The Cattaraugus County Department of Economic Development, Planning and Tourism and the Cattaraugus County Economic Sustainability and Growth Corporation announce the launch of the recently awarded Microenterprise Assistance Program (MAP). This program provides grants of up to $35,000 to eligible microenterprise businesses located in Cattaraugus County. A 10% equity contribution by the business is required. The MAP grant was awarded through a Community Development Block Grant from the New York State Office of Community Renewal. Funds from this grant
can be used for fixed assets such as machinery and equipment, furnishings and fixtures. Uses that enhance the long-term viability of the business, such as the creation of a website or e-commerce system or the purchase of a point-of-sale or CRM system, are encouraged. Grant funds cannot be used for building improvements. To qualify for the MAP grant, businesses must have five or fewer employees (including the owner) and be owned by a low- to moderate-income person. Alternatively, the grant will require the creation of at least one full-time equivalent job that is made available to low- to moderate-income persons. Participation by
start-up businesses and those that will fill a vacant storefront is encouraged. All applicants should keep in mind that this is a reimbursement grant program for eligible expenses incurred after a fully approved MAP application and the completion of entrepreneurship training. A business plan is required to be submitted for both start-up and existing businesses.
Cattaraugus County EDPT will be accepting applications through Oct. 31, 2025. For more information or to apply for the program, visit https:// ccBizHelp.com/MAPGrant or contact Devon Winters at (716) 938-2242.
10 tips for great tacos
Tacos are wildly popular comfort food around the world. The taco as most people know it evolved from ancient Mexican recipes blended with modern influences. Before tacos were widely eaten in America, native Mexicans enjoyed a version that was very different from the taco of today. Tacos are believed
to have originated in Mexico long before Spanish explorers arrived in the area. Early tacos were said to be freshly made using soft, flat, corn tortillas and filled with fish and cooked organs, according to Twisted Taco. There wasn’t much fanfare to these tacos, as they didn’t include any lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, or sour cream. Early tacos likely weren’t even called “tacos.” The word originated from Mexican silver miners in the eighteenth century who ate the food, and it was considered a meal of the working class.
The taco information website TacoTuesday.com indicates Americans eat 4.5 billion tacos in a given year. At an average cost of $1.50 per taco, Americans are spending $6.75 billion on tacos in a 12-month time period. While tacos are delicious enjoyed at an authentic Mexican restaurant, they’re also easily made at home. The following are 10 taco tips to help anyone master this popular dish.
1. Use high-quality, fresh tortillas. You even can try making your own fresh tortillas from masa.
2. Heating the taco shells slightly will make them more pliable. Just don’t overcook or they can become crunchy.
3. Tacos shouldn’t be made from the hard, preformed shells found in stores. Authentic tacos are made from soft flour (North Mexico) or corn (Central and South Mexico) tortillas.
4. When selecting meats for the tacos, authentic Mexican tacos typically feature meats that are cooked on a cast iron skillet, in the oven, or on the grill says The Taco Guy Catering. More popular choices are usually carnitas (braised pork), chorizo, arrachera (skirt steak), and tacos al pastor (marinated pork). Birria, which is a Mexican stew made from goat meat (or beef or lamb), also is a popular filling.
5. Tacos should offer a burst of texture and flavor. Toppings help make tacos special. Traditional options include pico de gallo, cilantro, diced onion, radish, and pickled onions.
6. Fish tacos were made popular in California and other regions with access to fresh seafood. Fish tacos are best made with firm, white, boneless fish.
7. When planning tacos that are filled with heavy, wet ingredients, consider stacking two tortillas per taco for strength.
8. Fillings should be cut into small, even chunks for balanced bites.
9. Popular spice choices for tacos are cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, oregano, onion powder, and paprika.
10. A squeeze of fresh lime juice will cut through the richness of tacos and make them even more delicious.
Tacos are an authentic Mexican dish that have stood the test of time and become a wildly popular food across the globe.
SUNY Jamestown Community College announces May graduates
JAMESTOWN —
SUNY Jamestown Community College announced the graduates who were awarded degrees or certificates from the Jamestown and Cattaraugus County campuses in May. A total of 350 students earned degrees and certificates.
Allegany: Matthew Gilman (A.A.S.: Criminal Justice), Izabella Provorse (A.A.: Liberal Arts & Sciences: Social Sciences - Honors)
Cattaraugus:
Hunter McInerney (A.S.: Liberal Arts & Sciences: Childhood Education - High Honors), Danielle Rubin (A.A.S.: Individual StudiesHigh Honors), Jacob Stoll (A.S.: Liberal Arts & Sciences: Mathematics & Sciences - Honors), Alexis Thalheimer (A.S.: Liberal Arts & Sciences: Mathematics & Sciences - Honors), Allison Wilder (A.A.: Liberal Arts & Sciences: Language, Literature, and Writing - Honors)
Franklinville: Moriah Dick (A.A.S.: Nursing - High Honors), Dallas Nickerson (Certificate: Law Enforcement Technology - High Honors), Kimberly Reeve (Certificate: Direct Support Professional), Paige Veroba (A.A.: Liberal Arts & Sciences: Social SciencesHigh Honors) Freedom: Seth Higgins (A.A.S.: Welding Technology)
Great Valley: Tristin Bomberry (A.S.: Fine Arts: Studio ArtsHigh Honors), Clayton Rowland (Certificate: Law Enforcement Technology - High Honors), Jocelyn Wyatt (A.A.S.: Nursing - High Honors)
Hinsdale: Kadyn Cassidy (A.S.: Business-Business Administration - High Honors), Nathan Douglas (A.A.S.: Nursing)
Quinn (A.A.S.: Nursing), Barry Starks (A.A.S.: Nursing) Olean: Patrick Alfonso (Certificate: Computer-Aided Design - Highest Honors), Taylor Beck (A.A.S.: Nursing), Samantha Clarke (A.A.S.: Nursing), Michael Cummings (A.A.: Liberal Arts & Sciences: Social Sciences), Aleah Demick (A.S.: Business-Business AdministrationHigh Honors), Cecilia Galke (A.A.S.: Occupational Therapy Assistant - Honors), Misty Garcia Bautista (Certificate: Direct Support Professional), Randall Hall (A.S.: Business-Business Administration - High Honors), Abigail Hill (A.A.S.: NursingHigh Honors), Paul Jewett (Certificate: Individual Studies - Highest Honors), Alexa Kissinger (A.S.: Individual StudiesHigh Honors), Emily Leichtenberger (A.S.: Addictions Counseling - High Honors), Jackson Marsfelder (Certificate: Welding Technology - Honors), Alanna Martin (A.A.S.: Individual Studies), Morgan Nutt (A.A.S.: NursingHonors), Samantha Oakley (A.A.S.: Individual StudiesHigh Honors), Vicki Pascucci (A.A.S.: Human Services - Honors), Alicia Provorse (A.A.: Liberal Arts & Sciences: Social Sciences - Highest Honors), Taylor Rice (A.S.: Liberal Arts & Sciences: Early Childhood Education - High Honors), Tyler Richards (A.S.: Individual StudiesHighest Honors), Sean Scott (A.A.S.: Nursing - High Honors), Macy White (Certificate:
Healthcare Studies - High Honors and A.A.S.: Individual Studies - High Honors), Erin Wilber (A.A.S.: Nursing - Honors), Noah Wilkinson (A.S.: Human Services - High Honors)
Perrysburg: Caitlin Park (A.A.S.: Nursing - Honors)
Portville: Christopher Halsey (A.S.: Liberal Arts & Sciences: Mathematics & Sciences), Jillian Long (A.S.: Liberal Arts & Sciences: Adolescence Education - High Honors), Samantha Proctor (A.A.S.: NursingHigh Honors), Nikita Schultz (A.A.S.: Individual Studies) Randolph: Alaina Rosengren (A.S.: Individual Studies), Sierra Smith (A.S.: Liberal Arts & Sciences: Mathematics & Sciences - High Honors)
Salamanca: Ira John (Certificate: Law Enforcement TechnologyHigh Honors)
South Dayton: Haleigha Hardy (A.S.: Liberal Arts & Sciences: Mathematics & Sciences - High Honors), Brandon Yoris (A.S.: Computer Science)
West Valley: Leah Seltzer (A.A.S.: Nursing)
Did You Know?
Patios continue to be more popular than decks. According to a tabulation of data from HUD/Census Bureau Survey of Construction from the National Association of Home Builders, the share of new homes with patios is on the rise while the share with decks remains low. The NAHB tabulation found that
the percentage of new homes with decks was 17.6 percent in 2023, while the percentage of new homes with patios reached a record high of 63.7 percent in that same year. Though some homes feature both a deck and patio, the NAHB notes that’s the case in just 6 percent of properties. However, decks have remained
a go-to choice in certain regions of the United States. For example, the NAHB reports that 76 percent of new homes in New England featured decks while just 17 percent featured patios. Decks (42 percent) also proved more popular than patios (20 percent) in the mid-Atlantic region.
Sleep and academic performance go hand in hand
Students and sleep are not always compatible. College students have long expressed a tendency to be night owls, but even school-aged youngsters may be reluctant to go to bed on time during the school year.
Parents of schoolaged children know that bedtime can be challenging, particularly when moms and dads want to ensure their youngsters get the recommended number of hours of sleep each night. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine advises school-aged children between the ages of six and 12 get nine to 12 hours of sleep per night, while teens are urged to sleep eight to 10 hours per night. Studies have found that when students don’t get enough sleep on school nights, their academic performance is likely to suffer. A 2023 study of first-year college students led by researchers at Carnegie Mellon University and published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that negative outcomes began to accumulate when students received less than six hours of sleep per night. Authors of the study noted that previous studies in animals showed that memories formed during the day were consolidated while animals slept but forgotten when those animals’ normal sleep patterns were
interrupted. The researchers behind the study identified a notable decline in students’ grade point averages when they received less than six hours of sleep, suggesting humans’ ability to learn and remember what they’ve learned in a given day is compromised if they don’t get enough sleep that night.
School-aged youngsters typically get more than six hours of sleep per night, but if they’re falling short of AASM recommendations, those students’ academic performance could be adversely affected. With that in mind, parents can try various strategies to get children to bed on time.
• Stay consistent with bedtime. A firm bedtime can reduce the likelihood that sleep disruptions will affect how children perform in the classroom. If children are staying up three hours past their weeknight bedtime on Friday and Saturday, then they’re less likely to want to go to bed on time on school nights. A little flexibility on the weekends might not upset the apple cart, but try to maintain a consistent bedtime throughout the week.
• Help kids calm down before bed. A winding down period leading up to bedtime can help kids fall asleep more quickly and might even make
them less resistant to bedtime. Avoid particularly energetic activities directly before bedtime. Calmly reading a book and picking clothes out for the next day of school are calm activities that can get kids’ bodies ready for sleep.
• Avoid confrontation. Parents are urged to let it go if kids aren’t falling right asleep but are still being cooperative at bedtime. Kids might want to keep reading to themselves after Mom and Dad say goodnight, and that’s alright so long as children aren’t continually getting out of bed or getting riled up. Eventually kids will tire out when engaging in a calm, pre-sleep activity, so parents should not grow upset and confront kids who are behaving but not falling asleep right away.
• Create a positive sleep environment. Young children will resist sleep if it sounds like their parents and siblings are having a grand old time without them. Parents typically go to great lengths to ensure kids’ bedrooms are conducive to sleep, but it’s also important to maintain a peaceful setting throughout the rest of the house once children go to bed.
Sleep and school are inextricably linked, and parents can do much to ensure kids get the rest they need to do their best in the classroom.
4 notable sightseeing spots across the United
Road trips have long had a place in American culture. The construction of Route 66 in the 1920s might have sparked Americans’ love affair with the open road, and postwar expansion of the interstate highway system in the middle decades of the twentieth century only reinforced those feelings.
Road trips are not exclusive to any one time of year, but summertime tends to be a particularly popular time to take to the open road. School is not in session in summer, and that makes it easier for families and college students to fit road trips into their schedules. Regardless of when adventurers choose to get behind the wheel, the following are four of many notable sights to see across the United States.
1. Glacier National Park, Montana: Aweinspiring views are the standard throughout the state of Montana, and Glacier National Park is no exception. The National Park Service notes Glacier National Park features more than 700 miles of trails and stunning views of glaciers. Though the NPS notes the park is particularly busy in summertime, crowds are no reason to avoid the stunning landscape, which encompasses more than one million acres
Out & About
and features hundreds of species of animals.
2. Key West, Florida: The Florida Keys are among the most unique locations in the United States. Key West certainly fits that characterization, as this beautiful island is the southernmost point in the continential United States and the terminus of Route 1, which is the longest north-south road in the country. Once vacationers reach the end of that road, they can rest easy with their toes in the Key West sand.
3. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania: History buffs who also happen to love the open road won’t want to miss a stop in Gettysburg. Gettysburg is arguably best known as the location of President Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address. President Lincoln delivered that speech on November 19, 1863, following the Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War. Many historians consider the Battle of Gettysburg the most decisive battle of the
States
conflict, altering the course of the war in favor of the Union. Visitors can explore the history of the site and also enjoy numerous outdoor activities, including hiking and mountain biking.
4. Sedona, Arizona: Phoenix and Tucson might be the first cities people associate with Arizona, but anyone who has ever visited Sedona certainly would not overlook this stunningly beautiful town in the central part of the state. Sedona’s iconic red rock formations and ancient cliff dwellings are a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts. After a day of hiking and outdoor sightseeing, visitors to Sedona can enjoy a meal in town at one of many notable top-rated restaurants that offer their own unique and stunning views.
The United States is among the largest countries in the world in terms of land mass, ensuring there’s no shortage of stunning sights to see for those who can’t wait to get behind the wheel and hit the open road.
Cattaraugus County Fair Domestics awards announced
LITTLE VALLEY —
Winners in competition in the Cattaraugus County Fair’s Domestic Building were announced by fair officials.
George Andolina of Collins – Best Jr. Accessory.
Amelia Savidge of Little Valley – Best Intermediate Horse Collection and Best Intermediate Donkey Collection.
Ashley Charlesworth of Portville – Best Infant Accessory.
Becky Mosher of Little Valley – Best Antique Salt & Pepper Collection, Best Antique Pressed Glass, Best Piece of Depression Glass, Best Piece of Majolica, Best Piece of Silver, Best Ephemera Item, Best of Show: Antique Dept. and Best Antique Tools.
Betty Chapman of Randolph – Best Rug.
Carmela Janiga of Perrysburg – Best Elementary Horse Collection.
Casey Boehmer of Olean – Best Drawing and Best of Show: Adult Art.
Catherine Bockhein of Randolph – 2nd Best Innovative Quilt, Most Appealing Quilt and 2nd Best of Show in Quilts.
Cathy Viereck of Little Valley – Best Carnival Glass.
Christina McCarthy –Best Innovative Quilt.
Christy Oakes of Little Valley – Best of Show: Photography
Clara Cornwall of Machias – Best Intermediate Doll Collection, Best Intermediate Beanie Babies and Best Intermediate Nature Collection.
Cooper Schrader of Kennedy – Best Collection of Horses.
Corita Schafer of Arcade – 2nd Best Afghan and Best Crochet Adult Garment.
Crystal Duffy of Frewsburg – Best Craft Entry and Best Zinnias.
Cyndi Harper of Machias – Best Large Centerpiece, Best Pillow, Best Pieced/Quilted Pillow and Best Embroidered Picture.
Danielle Finch of Allegany – Best Tasting Cookie and Best Etched Glass.
Danielle Shea of East Otto –Best in Digital and Best B&W Enlarged.
Dawn Durow of Randolph – Best Maple Syrup.
Deanna Johnson of Franklinville – Best Children’s Garment.
Denny Viereck of Little Valley – Best Adult Craft, 2nd Best Adult Small Wood Craft and 2nd Best Cut Flower.
Deven Boehmer of
Olean – Best of Show Intermediate Art and Best Drawing. Don Rhinehart of Salamanca – Best Adult Animal Carving, Best Adult Small Wood Craft and Most Outstanding Adult Craft. Dorothy Very of Machias – Best Adult Nature Collection, Best Adult Shells Collection, Best Adult Hobby Collection, 2nd Best Adult Cow Collection, Most Unique Porch Box, Best Pretty in Pink Arrangement, 2nd Best Arrangement and Best And on the 8th Day, God made a Farmer Arrangement. Dorothy Stoll – Best Zucchini Bread, Best Cinnamon Roll, Best Fudge, Best Cactus, Best Potted Plants, Best Flowering Hanging Plant, Best Begonia, Best Hanging Plant, Best Antique Glass Collection, Best Depression Glass, Best Piece of Antique Jewelry and Best Adult Silk Flower Arrangement. Elsie Porter of East Concord – Best Elementary Craft. George Andolina of Collins – 2nd Best Elementary Craft. Gideon Janiga of Perrysburg – Best Primary Craft, Best Primary Beanie Babies and Best Elementary Woodwork. Illa Holbein of Cattaraugus – Best of Show: Elementary. Jack Golden of Little Valley – Best Intermediate Craft, Best Elementary Color, Best Color Snapshot, Best of Show: Elementary Photo, Best B&W Enlarged and Best Intermediate Tractor Collection.
Jamie Godown of East Concord – Best Painting.
Jeanne Matteson of South Dayton – Best Overall Ceramic and 2nd Best Adult Craft.
Jenna Loveless of Salamanca – Best Mixed Bouquet and Best Lily.
Jennifer Janiga of Perrysburg – Best Extracted Honey, Best Plate of Tubers and Best Carrots.
Jethro Janiga of Perrysburg – Best Elementary Hot Wheels Collection.
Johanna Bliven of Olean – Best Canned Relish.
Karen Blakelock of Machias – Best Painting.
Karen Taft of Little Valley – 2nd Best Toll House Cookie, Best Wake Me Up Arrangement and Best Mini Arrangement.
Karl Stang of Perrysburg – Best Slicing Cucumbers, Best Garlic, Best Globe Onions, Best Peppers, Best Collection of Vegetables, Best in Grain or Seed and Best Roughage Exhibit.
Karly Cornwall of Machias – Best Elementary Nature Collection and 2nd Best Elementary Stuffed Animals.
Katherine Mitrowski of Machias – Best B&W Snapshot.
Katy Delpriore – Best Color Enlarged. Kayden McClune
of East Otto – Best Jr. Woodwork, 2nd Best Jr. Craft, Best Jr. Craft, Best Jr. Lego Collection and Best Jr. Art.
Kerri Martin of Salamanca – Best Crochet Infant Garment.
Khloe Duffy of Frewsburg – Best in Jr. Jellies and Jams and Best Jr. Muffins.
Kwinn Cornwall of Machias – Best Primary Stuffed Animals, Best Primary McDonald’s Toys, 2nd Best Primary Craft and Best of Show Primary Art.
Laura Land of Farmersville – Best Pieced Quilt, Best of Show Quilt, Best Afghan, Best Quilted Pot Holders, Best Sewn Doll Clothes, Best West Hanging, Best Buffet or Runner, Most Interesting Antique, Best Stone Crock or Jug, Best Needlework Picture and Best Crochet Doll Clothes.
Layla Paar of Allegany – Best Elementary Nature. Leah Olejniczak of Randolph – Best Jr. Potted Plant, Most Interesting Jr. Craft, Best Jr. Post Card Collection, Best Drawing, Best Painting, Best Jr. Needlework, Best Jr. Garment, Best Jr. Canned Fruit, 2nd Best Jr. Woodwork, Best Jr. Photography, Best Color Enlarged, Best of Show: Jr. Photography, Best Jr. Photography Snapshot, 2nd Best Jr. Potted Plant
and 2nd Best Cut Flower.
Linda Dewey of Perrysburg – Best Coffeecake and Best Mints.
Makayla Frentz of Little Valley – Best Jr. Daisy, Best Jr. Lilly, Best Marigold, Best Mixed Bouquet, Best Jr. Cut flowers, Best Jr. Single Rose in a Vase, Best Jr. Porch Box, Best Jr. Pretty as a Pitcher, 2nd Best Jr. Arrangement, Best Jr. Arrangement and Best Jr. My Vacation.
Mallory Little of Little Valley – Best Picture of Family Dog and Best Color Snapshot.
Marcia Stang of Perrysburg – Best Overall Pie, Best Banana Bread, 2nd Best in Jellies & Marmalades, Best Canned Fruit, Best Canned Pickles, Best Cut Flower, Best Gladiola, Best Rose in a Vase, Best Porch Box and 2nd Best Potted Plant.
Mary Charlesworth of Little Valley – Best Dish Garden and Best Exhibit of Daisies.
Mary Oakes of Machias – Best Piece of China, Best Adult Animal Collection, Best Thimble Collection, Best Holiday Collection, Best Adult
Button Collection, 2nd Best Hobby Collection, Best Cow Collection, Best Snowmen Collection and Best Collection of Comic Books.
Melinda Schrader of Kennedy – Best Diamond Art, Singing in the Rain and Best in Jellies & Marmalades.
Miles Holbein of Cattaraugus – 2nd Best of Show: Elementary. Nancy Olejniczak of Randolph – Best Pillow Cases, Best Hand Embroidered Pillowcases, Best Adult Garment, Best Handbag or Accessory, Best Blueberry Muffin, Best Toll House Cookies, Best Canned Vegetables, Best Brownies, Best Bar Cookies and 2nd Best Crochet Adult Garment.
Nell Fellows of Great Valley – 2nd Best Adult Decorative Painting, Best Amigurumi, Best Entry in Needlework Grand Prize and Best Counted Cross Stitch Picture.
Olivia Draghicescu of Washington, D.C. – Best Jr. My Friend and Best Jr. Arrangement.
Rachel Paar of Olean –Best No-Bake Cookie. Rozie Hollis of Erie, Pa. – Best Elementary Stuffed Animals and Best Elementary Beanie Babies.
Sandy Blood of Cattaraugus – Best Innovative Quilt, 3rd Best of Show Quilts, Best Hand Embroidered Quilts, Best Quilted Wall Hanging, Best Small Centerpiece and Best Tablecloth.
Shirley Crosby of Salamanca – Best B&W Arrangement and Best Arrangement.
Skyla Barber of Cattaraugus – Best Jr. Ceramics.
Susan Gilman of Cattaraugus – 2nd Best Ceramics and Best Decorative Adult Painting. Susan Scharf of Gowanda – 2nd Best Innovative Quilt.
Valerie Johnston of Franklinville – Best Crocheted Children’s Garment.
Vicky Bedell of Little Valley – Best Antique Metal Item and Most Delicious Candy. Zoey Alianello of Cattaraugus – Best Painting and 2nd Best Intermediate Craft.
CORNER
Drivers undoubtedly have noticed their vehicles need less frequent oil changes than cars once required. The longtime standard oil change interval of once every 3,000 miles no longer applies, and that’s thanks to the pivot away from conventional oil to synthetic oil. The molecular structure of synthetic oil and its ability to perform better at extreme temperature means drivers can now drive significantly longer distances between oil changes. In fact, Car and Driver notes that synthetic motor oils provide better startup performance and flow at temperatures down to minus-40 Fahrenheit and then endure extremely high temperatures without oxidizing, thickening or turning black. The reason synthetic oils need less frequent changes is that they can maintain their superior properties two to three times longer than conventional oils. Though each vehicle manufacturer is different and drivers are urged to consult their owner’s manuals regarding synthetic oil change interval recommendations, it’s not uncommon for modern vehicles to range between 5,000 and 7,000 miles before they need an oil change. Some synthetic oil manufacturers even note their products can last more than 10,000 miles.
File photo
The Domestics Department at the 2025 Cattaraugus County Fair announced its winners in competition for hundreds of exhibited items from handmade crafts to photos and from antique collections to vegetables.
Three-day food preservation class set for Oct. 7–9
SALAMANCA —
Cornell Cooperative Extension will be offering a three-day Master Food Preserver workshop on Oct. 7–9.
This training is for those who would like to go beyond the basics of home food preservation in their home. Using the safest, most updated information available, participants will learn the science of food preservation, including food safety.
Participants will gain hands-on experience with boiling water bath canning, pressure canning, jelled products and quick pickling, plus observe demonstrations of freezing, drying and fermentation.
“The last time we
offered the course (in April 2024), it sold out,” said Kelly McDonald, CCE Executive Director.
“People request this class. They want to learn the safest ways to preserve food for their families and are not always sure if a recipe or video they have found is safe. We are very excited that there is enough interest to offer this again this year.”
This course is the first step toward becoming a Cornell Cooperative Extension Master Food Preserver Volunteer and a Certified Master Food Preserver.
Volunteers receive discounts to popular food preservation classes held at CCE Cattaraugus, have
the opportunity to teach others food preservation techniques through outreach and food preservation programs, answer questions that come to CCE through the help desk and receive discounts on “So Easy To Preserve” 6th Edition and other publications. Cost is $350 for the full course, printed materials and supplies. Lunch is included each day. Class size is limited to 15 participants. Register by calling the CCE office or online at reg.cce.cornell. edu/3DayPreservati onClass-25_258. For more information, contact Cornell Cooperative Extension of Cattaraugus at (716) 699-2377 ext. 100.
Cattaraugus County resident hospitalized with Legionella
BY BOB CLARK
OLEAN — One Cattaraugus County resident is suffering from a disease that has stricken more than 60 people in New York City this summer. Speaking to the county’s Board of Health on Aug. 6, county Public Health Director Dr. Kevin Watkins reported that one resident is in intensive care at Buffalo General Hospital for pneumonia connected to a Legionella bacterial infection. The infection, commonly known as Legionnaires’ disease, typically affects the lungs and can lead to death in some cases.
“About 62% of our cases occur at a given time — between July and October,” Watkins said, with many cases globally traced to bacterial growth in air conditioning cooling towers on large structures. Following a 2015 outbreak that killed 16 people in the Bronx, Watkins said the state implemented new regulations on cooling towers, requiring registration, testing and other requirements to decrease the chances of legionella growing in them.
The New York City cluster has been traced to cooling towers in Harlem, Watkins said. He noted it is an example for the rest of the state. “You can see what happens when they are noncompliant,” he said.
Health Department officials said that Cattaraugus County has 21 registered cooling towers, with 10 operational at this time. Of those, three run year-round, while seven are operated seasonally. In Cattaraugus County, the operating cooling towers are at large industrial or commercial sites, including SolEpoxy and Olean General Hospital in Olean, The Pines county nursing home in Machias, Pioneer Central School District buildings in Delevan and Yorkshire, Holiday Valley Resort in Ellicottville, and the Red House Administration Building at Allegany State Park. All of the sites are in compliance with the regulations, Watkins said.
The county’s only patient has not been able to be interviewed to help figure out where the infection came from, Watkins noted.
IN OTHER BUSINESS, officials reported a mosquito testing site came back positive for West Nile virus in the town of Carrollton.
The site, a trap collecting adult mosquitoes on Raymond Drive, collected 60 mosquitoes on July 8, which were tested by the state on July 14 and came
back positive for the virus. However, no human cases have been reported. Watkins noted that between 70% and 80% of people infected with the virus show no symptoms, but those who do show symptoms range from fever and neck stiffness to coma and death. He recommended county residents use insect repellents with DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus or picaridin; cover up arms and legs when outside if possible, limit outdoor exposure at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, and drain even small outdoor pools of water.
SEVERAL RABIES post-exposure prophylaxis regimens have been started after county residents came into contact with animals with rabies.
In June, a Portville resident was bitten by a rabid fox, leading to his treatment for the bite and post-exposure treatment. In addition, 19 feral cats that he was feeding in his yard have been vaccinated and are in quarantine. On July 19, a family reported a bat in the home, which was captured and tested positive for rabies.
“Apparently, it bit a young child,” Watkins said, and six people who were in the home at the time are being treated with the post-exposure regimen.
Rabies, a viral infection spread through saliva, is fatal.
“Cases of human rabies in the United States are very rare,” Watkins said, with between one and three cases reported a year. He noted that the fatality rate makes it vital for those exposed to potentially rabid animals to seek treatment immediately. He also encouraged residents to not feed stray animals or wildlife, keep pets indoors — especially at night — and to immediately report animal bites and seek treatment.
Pet owners are also encouraged to get their pets vaccinated.
“September is our busy season for rabies clinics,” said Environmental Health Director Bob Ring, who noted that three county-run clinics — Sept. 4 in Dayton, Sept. 9 in Machias, and Sept. 11 in Allegany — will be held at county Department of Public Works shops. Vaccines will be available for dogs, cats and ferrets.
Wildlife may also be vaccinated this year, thanks to an effort by the U.S. Wildlife Service to airdrop baits in areas with reported rabies in the region.
“We’ll see some of these bait drops,” Watkins said, all occurring in the northern area of the county. A request to extend the drops elsewhere in the county was denied due to a lack of baits.
Watkins noted the baits are generally not hazardous for pets to eat or for people to handle.
Photo provided
Participants gather for the Three-Day Food Preservation Class in Salamanca, hosted by Cornell Cooperative Extension in April 2024.
