Chautauqua County

(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...

(WNY News Now) – Chautauqua County’s relief efforts for North Carolina’s hurricane victims soar to new heights as local pilots transport critical supplies, demonstrating the power of community-driven generosity.JAMESTOWN, NY — Chautauqua County continues its commitment to supporting hurricane victims in North Carolina through coordinated relief efforts, by flying donations to hard hit areas.On Sunday, Jeff Holowienko, a dedicated local pilot, flew a plane loaded with critical supplies from the Chautauqua County-Jamestown Airport to Avery County Airport in Spruce Pine, North Carolina, approximately 50 miles from Asheville. This flight is part of the ongoing efforts initiated by County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. and the airport management to address the needs arising from Hurricanes Helene...

(WNY News Now) – Chautauqua County is seeking local parents and caregivers with experience in the child welfare system to apply for the New York State Office of Children and Family Services Parent Advisory Board.MAYVILLE, NY — Chautauqua County is calling on local parents and caregivers to make their voices heard by joining the OCFS Parent Advisory Board to help shape New York’s child welfare policies.The Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene and Social Services is encouraging local parents and caregivers to apply for membership on the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) Parent Advisory Board (PAB).This board aims to empower parents and caregivers involved in the child welfare system by giving them a platform to share insights and make impactful recommenda...