Chautauqua County

(WNY News Now) A historic $1.625 million award from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation is expected to boost Chautauqua County's economic development initiatives and signal a turning point in the development of the area.New York's Jamestown.The Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth (CCPEG) is governed by the Chautauqua Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC), which approved the acceptance of a $1.625 million three-year funding award from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation on Tuesday, November 19.The grant award, which represents CCPEG's greatest financial commitment to date, will primarily fund the implementation of priority projects that line with the county's economic development strategy, while also expanding and improving CCPEG's administrative and project develo...

(WNY News Now) Authorities are investigating the cause of a late-night fire that severely damaged an unoccupied garage on Muzzy Hill Road in Panama.Panama, N.Y. On November 14th, 2024, at approximately 11:39 PM, the Panama Fire Department, along with multiple mutual aid agencies, responded to a reported structure fire at 6406 Muzzy Hill Road in Panama, NY. Crews arrived to find a two-story, unoccupied garage fully engulfed in flames. The fire s intensity resulted in significant damage to the structure, but fortunately, no injuries were reported as the building was vacant at the time.After the fire was successfully extinguished, the Chautauqua County Fire Investigation Team was called to the scene to determine the origin and cause of the blaze. Upon their examination, investigators conf...

(WNY News Now) – Diane Hewitt-Johnson, CEO of Chautauqua Opportunities, Inc., has been awarded the Certified Community Action Professional (CCAP) credential, recognizing her leadership and commitment to advancing community welfare.Diane Hewitt-Johnson, Chautauqua Opportunities, Inc.’s CEO, recently achieved status as a Certified Community Action Professional (CCAP). Diane was among 112 CCAP graduates who were recognized in August 2024 at the National Community Action Partnership (NCAP) Annual Conference in Seattle, Washington. The CCAP credential recognizes those who demonstrate knowledge and application of the core competencies required to effectively carry out the vision, mission, purpose and values of the Community Action movement.The process for earning certification consists of a peri...

(WNY News Now) – The Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office is heartbroken to announce the passing of Correctional Officer Dawayne Vanderwork, affectionately known as “Train.” A cherished father, coach, and friend, Dawayne’s life was defined by resilience, grit, and an unwavering dedication to his family and community.Chautauqua County, N.Y. – The Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office announced that Correctional Officer Dawayne “Train” Vanderwork passed away in his sleep after a long battle with cancer.“It is with heavy hearts that the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office announces the passing of Correctional Officer Dawayne Vanderwork. Dawayne passed away in his home with his family by his side after a long battle with cancer. Dawayne held many titles; son, brother, uncle, coach, friend and the mo...

(WNY News Now) – The Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office is heartbroken to announce the passing of Correctional Officer Dawayne Vanderwork, affectionately known as “Train.” A cherished father, coach, and friend, Dawayne’s life was defined by resilience, grit, and an unwavering dedication to his family and community.Chautauqua County, N.Y. – The Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office announced that Correctional Officer Dawayne “Train” Vanderwork passed away in his sleep after a long battle with cancer.“It is with heavy hearts that the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office announces the passing of Correctional Officer Dawayne Vanderwork. Dawayne passed away in his home with his family by his side after a long battle with cancer. Dawayne held many titles; son, brother, uncle, coach, friend and the mo...

(WNY News Now) – As winter’s chill sets in, Chautauqua County is stepping up its efforts to ensure that no one is left out in the cold.JAMESTOWN, NY — As the winter months approach, Chautauqua County is ready to provide support for individuals in need of warm shelter during extreme cold weather. With temperatures forecasted to drop, Code Blue shelters will be activated, offering a lifeline to those facing homelessness.This year, a new Overnight Code Blue Warming Center, operated by Recovery Options Made Easy, will open at 917 Washington Street, Jamestown, on qualifying nights starting Nov. 1, 2024, through April 30, 2025.Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. emphasized the importance of the new initiative, stating, “I want to formally acknowledge Recovery Options Made Easy for tak...