Allegany County Community Source 2/25/22

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25 2022

Allegany County Sheriff Whitney won’t run for 4th term

Photo by Jim Eckstrom U.S. Rep. Claudia Tenney speaks with a small group of Republicans Feb. 17 at The Kopper Keg in Cuba.

Rep. Tenney introduces herself to So. Tier Republican running for 23rd District seat

BY JIM ECKSTROM CUBA — U.S. Rep. Claudia Tenney is a newcomer to what will be the 23rd Congressional District — but she points out to people she meets in its expected boundaries that she has roots in the region.

“My mother’s family lived on a farm in Chenango County,” she told a small gathering of Republicans Feb. 17 at The Kopper Keg on Cuba’s Main Street during a low-key swing through Allegany County. Her family business has also been based

in Chenango County since 1946.

“The 23rd is a lot like the district I actually represent right now,” she said, referencing agricultural interests and small-town values throughout much of the 22nd Congressional District.

But after New York Democrats came up with a gerrymandered plan that eliminates most of the existing 22nd District, Tenney, R-New Hartford, won’t represent her hometown or the Utica area. She has set her sights on the 23rd, which

— when all is settled — should include all of Cattaraugus, Allegany, Chautauqua, Steuben, Chemung and Tioga counties and parts of Erie, Wyoming, Livingston, Chenango, Cortland, Schuyler, Yates and Broome counties.

“Fourteen counties ... it takes 4 1/2 hours to drive across the district,” Tenney said. “But I look forward to the challenge.”

She will be in Olean today at 3 p.m. to meet with Mayor Bill Aiello and walk the downtown district.

BELMONT — Allegany and then becoming a full

Conscious of the suggestion by some in the region that she is an interloper who jumped to the 23rd because it was more winnable than the carved-up 22nd, Tenney has pledged she will live within the 23rd — despite New York state law that says she doesn’t have to.

Tenney, who made stops in Alfred and Wellsville that day as well, pledged to be “very aggressive and a strong advocate” for the reconfigured 23rd District. She

Rep. Tenney continued ......... page 6

Sheriff Rick Whitney

County Sheriff Rick Whitney has announced that he will not seek a fourth term in the 2022 election.

“Since the 1960s, when I first started watching officers Malloy and Reed in “Adam 12” (a popular TV show), I’ve known that I wanted to be a police officer,” the sheriff said in a press statement. “In 1975 that dream came true when I was hired as a part-time deputy sheriff for Allegany County,

time police officer for the Village of Bolivar in 1976.

“The 35 years that I served as a local police officer, 30 as chief, plus the last 11 years as your sheriff, have been an honor and a privilege,” he said. “After 47 years, it is time now for me to look ahead at my personal goals and priorities. After much thought and long talks with family and close friends,

County Sheriff continued ...... page 6

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Allegany County DoH announces March schedule BELMONT — The Allegany County Department of Health has released its March clinic schedule.

Immunization clinics will be available in Belmont by appointment from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Monday and Feb. 22.

Reproductive health clinics will be available from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in Belmont on March 2, 16 and 28.

Pregnancy testing is available all reproductive health clinics, including the pap clinic, by appointment.

Appointments for all clinics can be made at (585) 268-9250 and will be held in: Alfred on March 3 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in Parish Hall.

Belmont on March 17 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

COVID-19 vaccine clinics will be held on: March 1 from 1 to 5 p.m., Pfizer 1st, 2nd and booster (ages 12 and up); 1st and 2nd peds (ages 5 - 11).

March 8 from 1 to 5 p.m., Moderna 1st, 2nd and booster (ages 18 and up).

March 15 from 2 to 5 p.m., J&J 1st and booster (ages 18

and up).

March 19 from 9 a.m. to noon, all boosters; Pfizer 2nd dose and peds 2nd.

March 22 from 1 to 5 p.m., Pfizer 1st, 2nd and booster (ages 12 and up); 1st and 2nd peds (ages 5 - 11).

March 29 from 1 to 5 p.m., all boosters for 12 and up.

COVID-19 rapid tests are offered every Monday and Friday from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Belmont American Legion parking lot. Call or visit alleganyco.com to register.

For information or to schedule cancer screening, call (877-778-6857 or (607) 385-3933.

WIC programs will be available by phone and if you have an appointment, you’ll be contacted about one week prior to your appointment. To schedule an appointment or if you do not receive a phone call, contact (585) 593-2533.

Licensed home care services agency available by referral.

For information or to schedule cancer screenings, call (877) 778-6857 or (607) 324-8812.

County residents invited to comment on broadband service BELMONT — If you love or hate your broadband service, you now have the opportunity to answer a survey and comment at one of eight virtual hearings held in the next few weeks.

The NYS Department of Public Service (DPS) is mapping broadband infrastructure across the state and Allegany County is asking for public input to understand what’s happening in the area.

“As of today only 140 households/addresses out of over 17,000 in Allegany County have filled out the broadband survey. The survey closes mid-March,” said H. Kier Dirlam, director of planning for Allegany County.

The Broadband Assessment Survey is a tool being utilized by the DPS to study the reliability and affordability of highspeed broadband infrastructure.

The survey takes 5-7 minutes to complete and will assist the agency is more accurately reporting on where broadband

infrastructure exists and where it does not.

By visiting www.empiresatebroadband.com or calling (855) 692-2627 by March 18, you can take a survey online or ask for a copy to be mailed to you.

Eight virtual public hearings will be held between Feb. 23 and March 3 via webex.

A schedule of dates, times, usernames and passwords is available at ht t p s://d o c u m e nt s . dp s .ny.gov/p ubl ic / MatterManagement/ C a s e M a s t e r . a s p x?M a t t e r C a s e N o =2 1 02182&CaseSearch=Search and click on “Notice of Public Statement Hearings Inviting Public Comments.”

To register electronically, you must pre-register by visiting www.webex.com by 5 p.m. on the day before the hearing in question. Click “join” at the top right-hand corner of the screen, enter the appropriate event number and provide all requested information.

Alfred State College Alfred State College students present project to residents of Belfast.

6 Alfred State students participate in Appalachian teaching symposium ALFRED — Six Alfred State College architecture students participated in the 21st annual Appalachian Teaching Project Symposium, a regional economic development conference sponsored by the Appalachian Regional Commission.

Alfred State is one of 16 Appalachian colleges and universities that participated in this year’s project.

The team of Nicholas Crego (Spencerport), Kaitlin Girard (Ontario), Alan Espinosa Lopez (Millbrook), Vincent Orologio (Rochester), Craig Salzman (Binghamton) and Alicia Scroger (Batavia) presented Leveraging Historic Transportation Networks to Promote Heritage Tourism and Community Connectivity: A Vision for Sustainability and Growth in Allegany County, New York.

The presentation was the culmination of a seven-week project that involved three architecture studios completing visualization studies for the communities of Belmont, Belfast and Fillmore.

To prepare for the ATP Symposium, 34 students enrolled in ARCH 7306 Design Studio 5 taught by Professors William Dean, Matthew DiRado, and Alan Vlakancic, a for-credit academic course to design and lead research projects in Appalachian communities to address regional challenges.

Each ATP project reflects one of four themes that connect back to the ARC strategic plan:

“This was an exciting project for the students to work on in collaboration with the people in three different communities, and we had great turn-outs for each public presentation,” Dean said.

“We also received a great deal of support from the Allegany County Department of Planning and Director of Planning Kier Dirlam and his staff. This project illustrates Alfred State’s commitment to civic engagement, applied learning, and making a local and regional impact.”

addressing community needs and challenges; economic development; tourism; and capacity building.

As a capstone to this work, students normally travel to Washington, D.C. to present their work to other student delegations from other ATP participating institutions, ARC leadership, and community leaders in a formal peer-to-peer conference setting hosted by ARC. This year, due to the continuing COVID-19 crisis, the ATP Symposium took place online.

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FEBRUARY 25, 2022

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FEBRUARY 25, 2022

ALLEGANY COUNTY OFFICE F O R T H E AG I N G SR. NUTRITION PROGRAM 585-268-9390 ( TO L L F R E E ) 1 - 8 6 6 - 2 6 8 - 9 3 9 0

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WEDNESDAY 3/2 Tuna Patties with Dill Sauce over Wild Rice Pilaf, Peas, WG Roll, Peaches

THURSDAY 3/3 Orange Juice, Cheeseburger Pie, Roasted Broccoli, Baked Beans, WG Bread, Blueberry Crisp

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Students from Belfast Central School deliver donation of food and money to Wellsprings Ministry as part of the school’s LoveIn-Action fundraiser. At left is Dennis Doell of Wellspring Ministry, while students are (from left) Kendra Giboo, Zakk West, Alex McLaughlin, Braedan Geyer, Joe Sadler and Katie Cole.

Belfast students practice Love-In-Action to benefit Wellspring Ministry

BY KATHRYN ROSS BELFAST — A group of Belfast Central School students traveled down the road to drop off food items they had collected and a cash donation of more than $1,000 to Wellspring Ministry.

The ministry is located only a few miles from the school and serves not only all of Allegany County’s needy, but also residents of the Belfast area who find themselves in need of a helping hand.

According to James Arthur, director of Wellspring Ministry, the student donation is something the school has done for more than 20 years.

“This is the largest food donation that we get during the year, and it is very important to us,” he said. “We’re very thankful that the students and teachers take the time to do this.”

The students also dropped off the monetary donation of $1,026. Arthur said they normally donate much less.

“This is bigger than ever before,” he acknowledged.

The cash will go into Wellspring Ministry’s general fund and will help people in need of emergency car repairs, rent, eyeglasses or hearing aides, or for whatever else emergency funds may be needed.

Belfast teacher Lisa Denning, who helps organize

the school’s fundraiser, LoveIn-Action, explained that the Belfast high school student council collects food from prekindergarten up to sixthgrade classes and monetary donations from students in seventh through 12th grades.

Students, staff and administration all participate by donating items and funds from school dress-down days and other in-school events.

Denning also said that for their generosity the students are rewarded.

“For the past few years, the class that collects most food and money gets a pizza or ice cream party supplied by the student council,” she said.

Students taking part

included Kendra Giboo, Zakk West, Alex McLaughlin, Braedan Geyer, Joe Sadler, Katie Cole, Alicia Borden, Hannah Southwick, Brianna Fields, Isabelle Male, Jaiden Enders, Trevor Clark, Carissa Mura, Logan Lopez, Jacob Borden and Sean Mahon.

Wellspring Ministry is located on County Road 16 between Belfast and Angelica.

It is divided into several areas, one for clothing, one for kitchen utensils, library, furniture, linens, toys and miscellaneous. It also has an emergency food pantry and can supply frozen meats to go along with boxed dinners.

Each Wednesday and Friday, from 10 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., it offers free hot meals.

Allegany County Receives $8.6 Million for Belfast Bridge over Genesee BELMONT, NY — On February 2, 2022, Public Works Superintendent Justin Henry released a statement that Local Bridge 08-07 over the Genesee River on County Route #26 in the Town of Belfast was closed to traffic until further notice. With only three other open bridges crossing the Genesee River north of Interstate 86, the sudden closure of this road has greatly impacted the routing of police, fire, and emergency services, significantly altered school transportation plans, and created a substantial detour for commuter and business traffic.

Governor Hochul’s announcement of $8.6 million for the replacement of the County Road 26 Bridge over the Genesee River in Belfast is very welcome news to Allegany County. Allegany County is thankful for all those, including our federal

and state representatives and the NYS DOT, who recognized and stressed the importance of this bridge to our communities. We extend our sincere appreciation to Governor Hochul for responding with immediacy to this critical issue.

We understand that the $8.6 million project is being funded by the NYS DOT through a combination of federal, state, and local funding, and we look forward to working with our representatives to determine what that will mean for Allegany County from a financial standpoint.

Allegany County Public Works officials stand ready to work with NYS DOT officials to expedite the design and construction of this important project, and we would like to take this opportunity to thank all involved parties for your support and dedication to Allegany County.

Steve Havey, Interim Executive Director 585-610-9529 Gretchen Hanchett, Benefits Councilor 585-268-5645

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Photo provided Pictured is the Welty family after the Portville girls’ basketball team’s Senior Night victory over Gowanda on Tuesday. From left: Mallory Welty, Inga Welty (coach and mother), Kayla Welty (assistant coach), Karly Welty, Mia Welty and Larry Welty (father).

A way of life for the Weltys Photo by Kathryn Ross Mindi Graham (left) and Lois Miller will spend Wellsville schools’ winter break helping migrants at the United States’ border with Mexico.

Wellsville teacher, aide travel to help migrants in Ariz.

BY KATHRYN ROSS WELLSVILLE — On Valentine’s weekend Wellsville teacher Lois Miller can usually be found sitting in a cardboard box in front of a campfire in the First Citizens Bank parking lot to raise awareness about the homeless in the community.

Not this year.

Miller put a hold on her annual campout in frigid weather — she will be more worried about rattlesnakes and scorpions than frostbite. On Feb. 19, she left for Tucson, Arizona, and the United States’ southern border, where she was to see firsthand the plight of homeless migrants.

She won’t be just a tourist. She will help Franciscan Friar Father Joe Kotula hand out care packages put together by volunteers with Bona Responds, a St. Bonaventure University project.

For several months, Miller has been helping to pack the care packages, which contain donated, high-protein food and snacks that don’t need refrigeration.

“When I learned at the end of January that it would cost $1,000 to ship the care packages, I said I would take them there myself,” she said.

With the school on its February break, Miller and her teacher’s aide Mindi Graham climbed into a van packed with care packages to begin their 36-hour trek to the Grand Canyon state.

Kotula of Mount Irenaeus, who has worked on the border for 13 years, was to be their guide to the site where they were to work alongside the Sisters of Notre Dame to distribute the food packets and lend a hand to the migrants seeking asylum and entry at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Port of Entry in Douglas, Ariz.

Miller said that it has been reported that up to 100 people a day cross the border at Douglas.

Why, when others are

skiing and drinking hot toddies or tanning during break, did Miller head for a week on the uncertain border?

“I’ve seen the stories on CNN, but I want to find out for myself, firsthand, what is happening at the border,” she said. “I want to do my part. I want to do more.”

Miller has a history of doing more. Long before she started Have A Heart, her homeless awareness project, she started the JUMP Club at the middle school to give students the experience of giving back to the community.

Now, Miller says wistfully, that she is looking at retirement from teaching at the end of June.

“I’m thinking about the second chapter of my life and what I want to do with it,” she said.

Her thoughts are coalescing around helping others, such as hurricane, flood and tornado victims or those who suffer from other natural disasters. More than just sending a donation, she wants to personally lend her hand to

helping others.

The border trip will give her the chance to experience the perils she might run into.

Is she afraid? She said her son called her to point out the danger she might face.

“I’m more afraid of the snakes and scorpions,” she said. “They say you have to empty your boots before you put them on in the morning.”

But, she added, “These days you can be in danger when you walk in a Walmart or when you work in a school.”

She also noted that she and Graham will travel into the desert where they will drop off water for the migrants.

She wasn’t sure what she will face there. But she is looking forward to seeing the saguaro cactus and having other adventures.

Graham will help Miller create a travel log of their adventures on Facebook. It will be called L and M’s Journey.

The duo will be flying home Feb. 27 and plan on having many stories to tell about how they spent their vacation.

BY DUSTYN GREEN PORTVILLE — Ninetyninety one.

That was the year the Portville High School girls basketball team made the state semifinals and played their first season in the school’s current gym, but for Inga Welty, it was more than that. An assistant coach suggested she become a coach and a teacher, not an athletic trainer.

Fast forward 32 years, walk into the gymnasium at Portville and you will find Inga and her daughters, Mallory, Mia and Kayla laughing and having a good time like the “best friends” they say they are.

The Welty family, very active in the school community, has been in the school for “thousands of hours and live” at the school, according to Inga.

The three Welty daughters who were present (sister Karly is currently playing collegiately at Alfred) say they built their relationship on “Portville pride, basketball and love for each other.” They say those three things led them to follow in their mother’s footsteps as a basketball player, but their mom, a 25-year coaching veteran, sees a special sight unfolding as her twin daughters Mallory and Mia near the end of their scholastic careers.

The twins were among the six who were honored at the team’s Senior Night festivities

prior to Tuesday night’s game against Gowanda and the last of Inga’s four daughters to make that walk.

“IT’S BEEN so special being able to share the sport I love with each of my daughters at different times,” Welty admitted. “What makes it even more special is, I get to share the special moments with their friends too, and it’s been so much fun.”

Welty recalled that when she had the opportunity to coach Kayla and Karly, her husband Larry, the high school principal, would bring the youngsters to all the games.

“Our family’s bond is so special, and we do everything together,” Inga said of making sure her family was all in attendance, “no matter how old they were.”

The Welty sisters agree their dedication comes from Inga’s roots.

“Even growing up, I lived in this building, (my family) went to every athletic event and followed everything; we loved this place, and I think it’s trickling down to our kids,” Inga said.

The ‘trickle-down effect’ had a particular effect on Kayla, second all-time in assists (296) at Division II Thiel College, who decided to return home and re-join the program as an assistant coach.

“I felt like I was detached from my sisters and I missed so many milestones and

special moments,” the eldest sister said. “The twins (Mallory and Mia) are seniors now, and I can be right there for all of it.”

The possibility of playing at the next level remains for both senior twins, but the thought of juggling collegiate athletics and academics appears daunting.

“After seeing the process and adjustments Karly has gone through in college, I don’t know if I want to play at that level,” Mia said.

For Mallory, the thought process has been close to the same, and she’s taking every opportunity to let her final campaign as a Panther marinate.

“I don’t really know what I want to do with my future yet,” she said. “I’m enjoying my senior year and just waiting to see what happens.”

Inga admitted, “I miss them being little. The only thing I don’t miss is having to yell at them when they would be disruptive while I was coaching. They learned pretty fast not to interrupt mom or they’d get yelled at in front of the team.”

Will she leave coaching as her daughters conclude their careers at Portville?

“There’s no way I can walk away,” Inga maintained. “ I love the game and the girls I coach. It’s truly a special group; I need to keep going … the question never crossed my mind.”

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Rep. Tenney continued from 1 expects the district to remain as drawn by New York’s Democrats — despite legal challenges of the state’s congressional district map for 2022.

U.S. Rep. Tom Reed, R-Corning, who represents the current 23rd District through 2022, is retiring from Congress. He had endorsed Steuben County GOP Chairman Joe Sempolinski, a former Reed aide, but Sempolinski announced earlier this month he will not run.

Republicans in the western Southern Tier also were eager for former state Sen. Catharine M. Young to run, but she declined as well.

State Sen. George Borrello, R-Chautauqua County, hasn’t formally stated that he won’t run, but Tenney’s campaign chest that was expected to hold $2 million by the end of this month is a formidable deterrent.

No Democrats have emerged as candidates. The filing deadline is April 7 and the primary is scheduled for June 28.

Retracing routes For her part, Tenney said that retracing some of the old Southern Tier sales routes she traveled for her family’s printing company has spurred her to run even more.

“So many former customers along the Southern Tier, a lot of them are not in business anymore,” she said. “I just want to do everything I can to bring more jobs here ... that’s why I really wanted to run for Congress.”

Noting that she was impressed by what appeared to be a healthy business district in Cuba, Tenney nevertheless said that with New York’s high taxes and regulations, “COVID finished a lot of (business) people off. I know so many longtime owners of restaurants and businesses who had to shut down because they just couldn’t survive.”

An attorney who practiced constitutional law before she stepped into politics, Tenney said she weighs all her congressional votes based on constitutionality. She said she believes “self-governance” is critical to the health of the nation and she regrets this chapter in the United States’ history when she sees too many “young people who don’t understand what freedom means.”

Socialism firsthand The Democrats’ policies — and the direction she said many of them would like to take the nation — reminds her of the time she spent as a young woman in the former Yugoslavia, a socialist country that had been ruled by a “benevolent dictator,” Josip Tito.

“It was lovely ... but it was not the United States,” Tenney said, recalling the lack of goods at grocery stores and noting that Yugoslavs remembered the days that those who spoke against Tito could be shipped to a penal island.

“Most people in the U.S. don’t know what that’s like,” she said, while suggesting she sees concerning signs that many Democrats would veer the nation toward that sort of

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socialistic control.

“Before you know it they are telling you what to do and when you can do it,” she said.

Tenney said she wishes there was more bipartisanship in Congress, but she frankly blames unyielding far-left Democrats who retaliate against colleagues who show even hints of moving to the center.

“I’ve had Democrats tell me, ‘I’d love to sign on to that bill, but not right now ... see me after the election and the House flips,’” she said, referring to the strong possibility of the Republicans retaking the majority in the House this fall. “A lot of progressive Democrats are vicious, they have a lot of money and they play to win.”

Elections debate Because of legal wrangling over the slimmest of margins in her election win (by eight votes) in the 22nd District, Tenney was not yet seated in

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the House for the certification of President Joe Biden’s win over former President Donald Trump. She would have liked to see more evidence of alleged voting irregularities brought to light to make a more informed decision.

She did indicate that too many changes to voting rules were allowed, mostly because of the pandemic and particularly in battleground states.

On the debate over voting laws in various states, including New York, she pointed out that New Hampshire has no early voting and individuals must have a valid excuse to receive an absentee ballot.

“Yet New Hampshire has the highest rate of voter participation than any other state,” she said. “They see it as a civic responsibility” with no need for increasing voting days and mail-in voting.

RH CONSTRUCTION Specializing in

now for me to look ahead at my personal goals and priorities. After much thought and long talks with family and close friends, I have decided to not seek a fourth term in office.” continued from 1 Whitney said he is grateful to the voters who elected I have decided to not seek a him, and the community fourth term in office.” who trusted him with “the Whitney said he is grateful to the voters who elected him, and the community who trusted him with “the incredible responsibility” of leading the sheriff’s office.

“The people of Allegany County are extremely lucky to have the talented and professional men and women of the sheriff’s office on duty each day and night helping to make their communities safe,” Whitney said. “I could not be more proud of these incredibly committed officers and civilians so dedicated to our county, and of all of the work that is accomplished at the sheriff’s office.

“Be assured that as I prepare to leave at the end of my term this year, I will conSheriff Rick Whitney tinue to work hard for you, and will do my best to faciliincredible responsibility” of tate a smooth transition,” he leading the sheriff’s office. added. “The privilege of serving as your sheriff has truly been an honor.”BELMONT — Allegany County Sheriff Rick Whitney has announced that he will not seek a fourth term in the 2022 election.

“Since the 1960s, when I first started watching officers Malloy and Reed in “Adam 12” (a popular TV show), I’ve known that I wanted to be a police officer,” the sheriff said in a press statement. “In 1975 that dream came true when I was hired as a part-time deputy sheriff for Allegany County, and then becoming a full time police officer for the Village of Bolivar in 1976.

“The 35 years that I served as a local police officer, 30 as chief, plus the last 11 years as your sheriff, have been an honor and a privilege,” he said. “After 47 years, it is time

County Sheriff

“The people of Allegany County are extremely lucky to have the talented and professional men and women of the sheriff’s office on duty each day and night helping to make their communities safe,” Whitney said. “I could not be more proud of these incredibly committed officers and civilians so dedicated to our county, and of all of the work that is accomplished at the sheriff’s office.

“Be assured that as I prepare to leave at the end of my term this year, I will continue to work hard for you, and will do my best to facilitate a smooth transition,” he added.

“The privilege of serving as your sheriff has truly been an honor.”

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How to enjoy a safe Mardi Gras this year Mardi Gras in 2021 will look very different from past celebrations. Even though COVID-19 already started to spread around the world in February 2020, New Orleans, home to one of the most famous Mardi Gras festivals, carried on with its historic parade as the world was still learning about the virus and how it spread.

According to New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell, there will be no Mardi Gras parades in New Orleans in 2021, as “large gatherings have proven to be super-spreader events of the COVID-19 virus.”

Mardi Gras, which precedes the Christian Lenten season, is an opportunity for

one final day of joviality and some well-intentioned indulgence prior to the solemn period of Lent. Revelers have long celebrated Mardi Gras with parades and a carnival atmosphere has become synonymous with New Orleans.

Mayor Cantrell reiterates that Mardi Gras 2021 is “not canceled, just different.” That approach stands to carry over into other Mardi Gras celebrations around the world.

Celebrating Mardi Gras at home may be the safest bet.

The following tips can help make such celebrations more festive.

• Bake a King Cake. This cake is only available during Carnival season. It is a circular sweet pastry frosted to

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look like a crown in the yellow, green and purple colors of Mardi Gras. A plastic baby is baked inside of the cake.

Whoever finds the baby typically hosts the festivities the following year.

• Order or make southern food. Delve into recipes for New Orleans cuisine, such as hush puppies or po’boy sandwiches. For a Creole touch, simmer a pot of gumbo.

• Enjoy a Louisiana beer

or other spirit. Research local breweries or distilleries based in Louisiana or another area known for Mardi Gras celebrations and have a beverage shipped to you.

• Buy or decorate masks.

Mask-wearing has become the norm for people around the world, but Mardi Gras masks cover the eyes rather than the nose and mouth.

Pick up inexpensive paper masks and craft supplies to make your own, or buy

elaborate ones with beads and other embellishments.

• Keep “throws” on hand.

Throws are one of the beloved traditions of Mardi Gras parades. Replicate the effect by tossing anything small, like candy coins or faux jewelry,

back and forth with your fellow revelers.

Mardi Gras stands to be a bit different this year.

However, low-key, at-home celebrations can still invoke the spirit of traditional Mardi Gras.

8

FEBRUARY 25, 2022

Tips before deciding to do a DIY demolition Home improvement projects can range from relatively inexpensive undertakings to complex endeavors that cost homeowners thousands of dollars. In an effort to make expensive projects more affordable, homeowners may look for ways to pitch in, and do-it-yourself demolition is a common way to cut costs.

Due to geographical fluctuations in price as well as the scale of a project, it’s hard to pinpoint just how much homeowners can save by doing demolition work themselves. HomeAdvisor estimates that the average small interior demolition project costs just over $3,000, though more significant demolition projects can cost considerably more than that. Given

the cost, it’s no surprise that so many homeowners volunteer to do demolition on their own. Though it’s possible to do so safely, homeowners can take steps to determine if it’s in their best interest to take on a DIY demolition or leave it to the professionals.

• Conduct a cost analysis.

Demolition projects seem simple, but they often require the use of equipment most homeowners don’t have on hand. Rentals can be considered in such instances, but the cost of renting equipment can reduce the amount of money homeowners are saving by going it alone. For example, homeowners may be able to pull up vinyl or tile flooring on their own, but not all floors are installed

the same. Some floors may have been glued more effectively than others, making it hard and/or time-consuming to pull them up by hand. A walk-behind floor scraper can make it easier to remove such floors, but that equipment must be rented. A cost analysis comparing the contractors’ demolition cost estimate and the cost of DIY, complete with equipment rental projections, can give a more accurate picture of how much money homeowners will save by going it alone. If the savings of DIY are negligible, homeowners should probably let the contractor handle the demo.

• Speak with your contractor. Prior to saying they’ll do the demo work on their own, homeowners should

speak with their contractors to get an accurate idea of what the project will entail.

Demolition projects may seem simple enough, but contractors can illustrate the correct way to do things so as to minimize potentially costly damage. Some contractors may offer to help homeowners start the demo project and then leave them to their own devices once they get a knack for what to do. Once homeowners see what it will take, they can then decide if DIY is best for them.

• Enlist help. No DIY demo should ever be done alone.

The risk for accident and injury is simply too great for homeowners to go it alone.

Homeowners who can’t enlist some volunteers to pitch in should leave the job to the

professionals.

DIY demolition can save homeowners a lot of money.

But such projects are not necessarily as simple as they

seem. Homeowners should take steps to see exactly what they’re getting into before they volunteer to take on demo duty.

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FEBRUARY 25, 2022

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Signs of engine trouble Without a functioning engine, a car is just an expensive driveway ornament. Engines keep vehicles moving, much in the same way the heart provides oxygen and blood to keep the human body running strong.

Modern engines are a mixture of mechanical moveable parts and complex computerized systems. Many different parts work in unison to keep a vehicle moving. Engines can be challenging for experienced mechanics, not to mention downright confusing for people who are unfamiliar with what’s under the hood of their vehicle. But any vehicle owner can learn to recognize certain signs that an engine

may be on its last legs.

Engine shaking An engine that is shaking while running may just have bad spark plugs or loose or damaged hoses, offers Sturtevant Used Auto Parts in Wisconsin. However, if those fixes don’t work, it could be an indication of a deeper problem that requires a mechanic, such as fuel intake system issues, compromised motor mounts or timing belt problems.

Excessive smoke An engine in trouble typically has to work harder.

That results in heating up more quickly, which can lead to overheating. Smoke may be white, blue or black (each

color indicates a separate problem). Any sign of excessive smoke is a reason to consult a mechanic.

Warning lights The dashboard tends to light up when the car is started, and one by one those lights diminish as the car’s computer checks that all systems are working correctly.

If the “check engine” light remains on, it is notifying the driver of a problem. The issue could be a faulty sensor or something more ominous. Mechanics can hook

the vehicle up to a scanning tool that runs diagnostics to “speak” to the car’s computer helping to diagnose the issue, advises How Stuff Works.

Strange noises Popping or tapping noises may suggest that gasoline is igniting prematurely in the combustion chambers of the cylinders. Grinding noises may tell you that the starter motor needs to be changed or replaced. Transmission issues also can produce grinding sounds. Generally speaking, if the car is making

sounds it does not normally make, schedule a service appointment.

Poor fuel efficiency Engine trouble may cause the car or truck to consume gas faster than normal, according to the car information site Carsoid. The engine or one of its components may be faulty. Problems could arise in the spark plugs, oxygen sensor or fuel injector.

Metal flakes If you change your own oil, check to see if the oil has metal flakes, or ask the

technician if he or she sees flakes when you bring it in for service. Flakes indicate the engine is creating too much friction and slowly chipping away at the components.

Trouble starting Failure to turn over is a clear indicator of engine troubles. It could be the battery, but if the battery is new, look for other causes.

Engine trouble does not generally come out of nowhere. Certain signs can warn drivers their vehicles need servicing.

10

FEBRUARY 25, 2022

Non-emergencies start with your Primary Care Provider WELLSVILLE, NY —A sore throat, runny nose, and headache COULD mean you have COVID, but it can also mean you have a cold.

Your primary care provider can help you and should be your first call.“People with the milder symptoms of COVID, such as fever and chills, cough, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, congestion, runny nose, diarrhea should call their primary care provider for guidance,” said Kelly Foster, Director of Emergency Services at Jones Memorial Hospital. “Your provider can tell you if the symptoms can be taken care of at home or require a visit to the office.”On the other hand, some symptoms are signs that you should seek emergency medical care immediately. “If someone is

experiencing trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion, trouble waking up or staying aware, emergency medical attention is needed immediately,” Mrs. Foster added. “Don’t hesitate, don’t wait. These symptoms require a trip to the Emergency Department.”Remember, the first call if you have minor symptoms should be to your primary care provider. “This includes COVID testing and other minor health issues,” she added. “The emergency room should be used only for emergencies.” The walkin clinic at Jones Memorial is another option for nonemergencies when you can’t reach your primary care physician. Located near the JMH rehab department, the walk-in clinic is open every day from 2 pm to 7 pm.

Alfred State Men’s Swimming & Diving win AMCC Title The Alfred State College (ASC) men’s swimming & diving team continued their impressive 2021-22 by winning the college’s first Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference (AMCC) championship. The Pioneers were also the overall champion in the meet that combined AMCC and Empire 8 institutions.

Alfred State led throughout the four-day event held at the Webster Aquatic Center. The Pioneers scored 969.5 points to sit on top of the overall standings.

During the competition, the Pioneers broke six AMCC records and established ten new ASC program records.

New AMCC Records established during the championship: The 400-yard medley relay of Westin Perry (Hartsville), Stuart Yates (Naples), Kellen Fletcher (Wrightstown, NJ) and Jazz Widney (Tulsa, OK) won in 3:26.56 to establish a top time.

The 200-yard medley relay of Perry, Yates, Widney and Luca Aldewereld

Photo provided The Alfred State men’s swimming & diving team on the award stand

(Cleveland, OH) won in 1:32.10 to claim the top spot.

The 400 free relay of Perry, Fletch, Aldewereld, and Widney set a new top mark by winning in 3:05.12.

Aldewereld set a new mark in winning the 50 freestyle in 20.94.

Fletcher won the 100

butterfly in 50.44 to set a new record.

Perry set a new mark in the 100 free in 46.27.

“I am very proud of both our men and women this weekend,” stated AMCC Coach of the Year Mike Smiechowski.

“Special thanks to the alumni and

everyone involved with helping build this championship team. It was a truly special year with our men going undefeated. Looking forward to continuing to build a championship pedigree for both programs.”

The AMCC title broke Penn State Behrend’s streak of 14 straight AMCC titles and the AMCC title was the first won by a men’s athletic team at Alfred State (the women’s swimming & diving team won the AMCC Championship in 2020). It was also the first time an AMCC team has won the overall title of the Allegheny – Empire Championship.

In total, the Alfred State men had 11 AMCC individual champions and 10 overall event champions. Diver Austin Miller (Hornell) earned AMCC Diver of the Year for the third year.

The Alfred State women’s swimming & diving team finished second in the AMCC standings and fourth in the overall standings.

Diver Sarah Streeter (LeRoy) earned the AMCC Diver of the Year honors.

How to avoid computer eye strain Workplace hazards are vision tested, and individuals should heed this advice and a part of life for people in various professions. Office workers might not consider themselves vulnerable to injury when they’re at work, but individuals who spent much of their day staring at a computer screen are at risk of developing computer eye strain.

According to The Vision Council, nearly 60 percent of individuals who routinely use computers and digital devices experience symptoms of computer eye strain. The health care experts at Cedars Sinai note that computer eye strain symptoms can include dry eyes, headache, blurred vision, and eye twitching.

Despite the prevalence of computer eye strain, office workers and others who spend long periods of time at their computers can take steps to reduce their risk.

• Redo your work environment. Cedars Sinai recommends individuals concerned about computer eye strain create a better work environment to reduce their risk.

The online vision health and wellness resource All About Vision notes that eye strain is often a byproduct of excessively bright light. That light could be natural light coming in through a window or from interior lighting that is harsh on the eyes. If exterior light Heart disease kills an estimated 630,000 is making your office excesAmericans each year. It's the leading cause of sively bright, close drapes, death for both men and women. In the United shades or blinds to keep that States, the most common type of heart disease is light out. Excessively bright coronary artery disease (CAD), which can lead to lighting fixtures can be rema heart attack.

You can greatly reduce your risk edied by using fewer light bulbs or fluorescent tubes or for CAD through lifestyle changes and, in some replacing existing bulbs with cases, medication. lower intensity alternatives.

All About Vision also notes Allegany Council on Alcoholism & that some individuals find Substance Abuse, Inc. floor lamps that employ soft 585-593-1920 x 713 white light from LED bulbs are less taxing on their eyes than overhead fluorescent lighting.

• Schedule vision checkups. Cedars Sinai notes that uncorrected vision problems are a major cause of computer eye strain. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends individuals get a complete eye exam once in their 20s, twice in their 30s and then again when they turn 40. A comprehensive eye exam at 40 is necessary because the AAO notes that this is when early signs of disease or changes in vision may appear. Diseases or changes can contribute to computer eye strain, among other issues. After conducting a comprehensive eye exam, ophthalmologists will then tell patients how often they should have their

dealing with eye strain to prevent it or reduce its keep appointments.

• Upgrade your tech. All can try various strategies severity.

About Vision notes that flatpanel LED screens with antireflective surfaces are preferable to computer screens with cathode ray tubes, which can cause an imperceptible flicker of images that contributes to computer eye strain. A large display screen, whether it’s a desktop computer or a monitor connected to a laptop, also can reduce risk for computer eye strain.

Computer eye strain can make workdays difficult for office workers. Individuals who think they might be

DID YOU KNOW?

California produces over 95% of the olives grown in the United States. Most of the California grown olives are black olives, known for their firm texture.

There can be as many as 1,000 olives per tree. Olive trees by nature are alternate bearing fruit - one year there will be a large crop and the next year a smaller one.

Harvesting generally is done from September into November, with most of the harvesting done by hand.