Mayor's Community

Click on images for full-size picture.

Souper Bowl 2012!! (2/2/2012)

City of Olean workers donated a large box of nonperishable food items to the Souper Bowl of Caring Feb. 3. A $100 check was also contributed.

Participating in the hand-off are (l to r): Common Council Clerk Kelly Sweet, Olean High School Senior Maria Skrobacz (Olean Souper Bowl Drive Coordinator), City Auditor Fred Saradin, Mayor Linda Witte, Senior Clerk Glenda Jester.

State of City and Annual Meeting (1/2/2012)

Boy Scouts of Troop 621 color guard helped open the Annual Meeting January 3.

In a pinch, we can count on the City Clerk to deliver the Invocation. He said: “Bless us and Bless the City of Olean. Let us remember in the New Year that while we may have differences among us, we all have in common that we love the City of Olean. So let us all work together to create a better Olean. Amen.” At left is Council Clerk Kelly Sweet. Ward 5 Alderman Jim Finch is on his right.

Judge Hank Mountain administered the oath of office to re-elected and new aldermen: (from left) Ward 2 Alderman Ann McLaughlin, Ward 4 Alderman Matt Keller, Ward 6 Alderman Nate Smith, and Ward 7 Alderman Tom Morgan.

Mayor Linda Witte delivered a positive message of a year’s accomplishments in her State of the City Address January 3, 2012. She credited a growing cadre of volunteers for progress across the neighborhoods. She also pointed to some tangible results of the city’s “quiet momentum.” These include baseball at Bradner Stadium, a $2.6 million share of the WNY Regional Economic Development Council’s Best Plan Award, and media recognition for the highest increase statewide -- 3.8% -- in private sector business.

The State of the City Address was attended by an audience of about 70 people and the Common Council which conducted its Annual Meeting following the Address. Shown here are Council Clerk Kelly Sweet, City Clerk Alexander Utecht, Ward 5 Alderman Jim Finch, Ward 3 Alderman Tina Kamery and Ward 1 Alderman Jim Brady.

Department heads waited for the meeting to begin: (l-r) Youth and Recreation Services Director John Anastasia; City Auditor Fred Saradin; City Attorney Wendy Peterson; City Assessor Nancy Champlin; and Community Development Program Coordinator Mary George.

Mrs. Zella Cunningham celebrates her 100th birthday! (12/6/2011)

Mayor Linda Witte presented the Key to the City to Zella Cunningham (seated), at a birthday celebration Dec. 6 in the Senior Center. Mrs. Cunningham was accompanied by her husband, Mel (left).

Mayor Linda Witte presented Mrs. Zella Cunningham with a Proclamation and a Key to the City during her 100th birthday party, held on Dec. 6, 2011 in the John Ash Community Center.

Mrs. Cunningham was born Zella Mae Sherwood on Dec. 8, 1911 in Olean’s hospital and spent her early years in her parents’ home in Shinglehouse, Pa., she attended Shinglehouse High School and received a degree at Westbrook Academy, a business school in Olean. She was employed at Socony Vacuum and spent 30 years as a County Court clerk, retiring from the City of Olean Water Department in 1975. She holds a track record as a volunteer, serving many organizations such as the Senior League, St. Francis Hospital, the Guild for Hospice and the former Beautification Program. She is a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church and is a past recipient of the National Brotherhood Woman of the Year.

Eagle Scout Honored (10/25/2011)

Gary “Casey” Jones (left) presented a certificate of appreciation to Eagle Scout Matthew Gardner for his community participation. Matthew is the son of Mike and Sharon Gardner (right), of 18th Street in Olean. Their younger son, Cub Scout Joshua Gardner, was also on hand for the award ceremony, held during the Olean Common Council meeting Tuesday (Oct. 25).

Lincoln Park Gazebo Gets a Facelift! (10/2011)

The gazebo in Lincoln Park was built by the Rotary Club in 1980. Boy Scout William Caya chose this as his Eagle Scout project and worked with the Rotary Club to accomplish the facelift, which included refacing the brick, and recovering the roof.

Rebuilding our Neighborhoods! (10/2011)

NeighborWorks Home Resources remodeled this 3-bedroom home at 317 N. 7th St. and placed it back on the tax rolls. Funds came through the NYS Community Housing development Program. The single family residence boasts energy efficiency and is being marketed with a price tag of $60,000. For information on the home, call Ken Magara, Neighborworks Program Director, at 373-4100, Ext. 2, (kmagara@nwhomeresources.org) or visit Neighborworks at 209 N. Union St.

Cattaraugus County-Olean Municipal Airport is still improving! (10/2011)

Mayor Linda Witte and city officials visited the city airport’s new fueling station and main hangar on Oct. 3 in a meeting with the Airport Support Group, a volunteer organization of business pilots who help raise funds and guide improvements to upgrade the facility.

Care Recovery Walk (9/17/2011)

CARES drew a large group September 17, 2011, to participate in the organization’s annual Recovery Walk.

Boy Scouts Painting at Bradner Stadium (9/2011)

Scouts from Boy Scout Troop 621 and their adult advisors spent a day painting Bradner Stadium’s tunnel to War Vet’s Park.

Before

After

Boy Scouts: Adam Cashimere, Nathan Hawkins, Ethan Kelley, Matthew Kwiatkowski, Curt Monkhouse, Corey Nedell.
Adults: Michael Kelley, Chuck Kwiatkowski and Carl Monkhouse.

Hillside Wesleyan Church Paints John Ash Community Center (8/19/2011)

Aug. 19, 2011 a group of volunteers from Hillside Wesleyan Church, led by Pastor John Long, painted the John Ash Community Center’s meeting room.

Gus Macker 2011!!

Gus Macker 3-on-3 Basketball, Olean Center Mall/Key Bank Parking Lot, August 19-21, 2011

The event benefits Olean High School Sports Boosters and the Olean City School District Foundation.

Department of Public Works Director Tom Windus and his wife, Amy, volunteered to act as scorekeeper and timekeeper at the Gus Macker Tournament

A medical crew of Olean nurses manned the first aid station.

Ward 6 Alderman Gary “Casey” Jones kept score.

294 teams competed in the fundraiser this year!

Adopt-a-Planter 2011 (9/2011)

During the Sept. 13 Common Council meeting Mayor Witte handed out awards to participants in the Adopt-A-Planter North Union Street merchants were first asked to adopt the planters and then the public and organizations were offered the remaining planters. Members of the Portville Garden Club acted as judges.

Officials are considering future planning efforts to undertake a 2012 project for next summer.

On September 9 in her office Mayor Linda Witte awarded prizes and certificates to some of the participants. She provided the Common Council with an overview of the project and presented certificates to the remainder of the project participants during Tuesday night’s Council meeting. The contest was held to bring attention to the downtown with volunteer container plantings in the city-owned 23 redwood planters that are in place along N. Union Street.

Mayor Witte provided the participating merchants with stickers to place on the windows of their businesses. Please take note when you are shopping downtown and remember to patronize these dedicated business folk.

Shown here are: (from left) first prize-winners Beth and Dave Prince for Databranch (Planter #8); third prize-winner Theresa Raftus for Community Bank (Planter #9); Raegan Kenney, a seventh-grader and member of the second-prize winning team, “M&M” (Planter #22); Marcia Kelly, M&M team member; Sue Stevens, Adopt-A-Planter coordinator; Maureen Sheahan, M&M Team Member; Alice Frost, Portville Garden Club member and Adopt-A-Planter judge; and Mayor Linda Witte.

Other contestants were as follows: Uptown Florist, Five Star Bank, Olean Child Day Care, Olean Medical Group, BOCES, OBI, Peppermill, Little Chicago, Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce, McCarthy’s Emporium, On Location Photography, Beef ‘N Barrel, Helen Johnson, Julie Barnes and Americorps, Jamestown Community College, Tom and Joey Enright. Mayor Witte, aided by City Assessor Nancy Champlin and other city employees, adopted the planters #1 and 3 in front of the Post Office.

Portville Garden Club member Sue Stevens coordinated the Adopt-A-Planter effort after receiving a suggestion from Laurie McCarthy of McCarthy’s Emporium. Contestants were responsible for the costs and labor of planting, fertilizing, weeding, etc. Merchants were invited first to adopt planters and then the public was invited to claim remaining planters for caretaking over the summer. Several merchants placed pots and planters outside their storefronts and did not compete in the contest, but contributed some nice greenery anyway.

Nan Miller, a Cornell Cooperative Extension Master Gardener from Salamanca, sent all the contestants very detailed information for container plantings in the extreme urban setting for these planters. Planting began in earnest around Memorial Day. The Judges from the Portville Garden Club were Alice Frost and Shirley Longbotham, Carol and Tony Gallo, and Ruth DeYoe visited six times between June 29 and August 29 in teams of two. They scored the planters from 1 to 10 and came up with their own award categories. City Forester Sue Cooper, and her husband, Wayne Cooper, a retired forester, to design and place labels for each planter. These were purchased from SUBCON by the city. Donations for prizes were noted: pruning shears from Worth W. Smith, a $50 gift certificate from Pleasant Valley Greenhouse. The Mayor took the second-place team to lunch at the Beef ‘N Barrel.

Rehabilitation Center Cleanup on North Union (8/6/2011)

The Rehabilitation Center crew cleaned up litter and trash on North Union Street Saturday morning, August 6, 2011, in cooperation with Lila Ervay (far left) and the Mayor’s Neighborhood Preservation Committee. Pictured with Lila Ervay are Living Skills Instructor Dina Holcomb and her four clients (in no particular order), Stephanie Vanderhoef, Jason Peterson, Kristy Pizon and Katy Windsor. The team is based at The Rehabilitation Center’s South Nine Mile Road facility.

2011 World Breastfeeding Week (8/2/2011)

Mayor Linda Witte spoke to a group of mothers and families taking part in the 2011 World Breastfeeding Week kickoff in Lincoln Park Aug. 2. The theme of this year’s event is “Talk to me! Breastfeed – a 3D Experience.” The Cattaraugus County Health Department’s WIC Program and other participants staged a celebrity “Walk and Talk” by marching together on North Union Street.

Rebuilding Together 2011 (7/30/2011)

Rebuilding Together 2011 volunteers and organizations spruced up four houses on Blitz Day, July 30.

A crew of Total Senior Care Volunteers made this house on Homer Street shine!

Olean Common Council President Frank Steffen (Alderman, Ward 1) and his wife, Fran Steffen, joined the BOCES crew, pitching in to paint a Homer Street dwelling.

A home on the Four Mile Road was repainted by Olean Wholesale and volunteers.

This large team of BOCES volunteers repainted a Homer St. home.

Alcas Corporation volunteers worked on a home on Union Valley Road.

Boardmanville Visits the City Building (6/20/2011)

Mrs. Stephens' Boardmanville Elementary School Kindergarten class visited the Municipal Building June 20, accompanied by Patrolman Jason Buckles. Students who were greeted by Mayor Linda Witte include: Saige Croce, Morgan Sagona, Payton Howard, Michelle Droney, Hailee Zalwsky, Wilhelminia Jay-Edwards, Mia Guo, Kaiden Franklin, Jacob Wind, Talan Stitt, Artis James, Aiden Gelder, Tanner Lewis, Will Snyder, Hudson Dibble, Alyanna Parks, Emma Dwaileebe, Zackary Linza and Zachary Braley.

Mrs. Chudy's First Grade Class from Boardmanville Elementary, accompanied by Patrolman Kristopher Lickfeld, also visited Mayor Witte. They are: Ashlyn Flood, Logan Baer, Olivia Kratts, Jacob Baldwin, Brock George, Alyssa Goodell, Connor Valenti, Max Butler, Jared Morgan, Isabelle Bailey, Madison Herner, Patrick Marra, Emma McLear, Zachary Clayson, Kaiden Scott, Matthew Kramer, Aaliyah Sands.

Bradner Stadium Facelift (6/17/2011)

A facelift for Bradner Stadium shows off a spruced-up entrance and ticket booth, along with a new panoramic vista of the city’s recreational amenities with a backdrop of the Allegheny River and the Enchanted Mountains spanning south of the city.

Matthew Witte, Alex Marra and Brandon Jones were part of the volunteer painting crew that gave the Bradner Stadium entrance and ticket booth a clean and bold new look on June 17.

Meals on Wheels Fundraiser (6/16/2011)

Mayor Linda Witte borrowed County Legislator Jim Boser’s apron and pitched in to help the Cattaraugus County Department of Aging raise money for a new Meals on Wheels van. The event was held July 16 at Ponderosa on West State Street.

OGH Safety First (6/11/2011)

The city participated in Olean General Hospital's Safety First Kickoff for Summer 2011 on June 11. Police officers installed car safety seats for children, and families had the opportunity to tour the Mercy Flight chopper on its landing pad just north of the hospital. Tours were suspended briefly that day when a patient was brought to the pad for transport to an out-of-town hospital. The visitors were able to see emergency responders and equipment in action.

Veterans Administration Outreach Session (6/10/2011)

The first annual Veterans Administration outreach session was held June 10 at Jamestown Community College, where a number of agencies, businesses and services came prepared to discuss a variety of services and programs that are available to veterans. The City Assessor Nancy Champlin provided information on Veterans' property tax exemptions. Among the other participants were the Military Support Group (016), the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (017)and Bryant and Stratton.

National Grid and Asplundh Spruce Up the Bartlett House (6/10/2011)

The appearance of the city-owned Bartlett House and grounds is improving in stages. From 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. on June 10, 2011 a four-man crew of National Grid specialized foresters and employees of Asplundh trimmed, pruned and shaped trees, shrubs and vegetation at the historic home. Some walkways and masonry have already been repaired or replaced. Future plans include painting and more.

Donald “Jay” McIntosh, and his specialized crew, Randy Schwindemann, George See and Rick Maston. A fifth volunteer, Forester Wayne Cooper (Ret.), is seen in the background.

Workers used Asplundh equipment to remove the overgrown treetops that were covering portions of the roof.

Market at the Mall (6/10/2011)

Shoppers seek fresh foods on the morning of June 10, 2011, at the new Saturday morning market in the Olean Center Mall parking lot.

Worker Memorial Day 2011 (6/4/2011)

About 60 people turned out for the Central Labor Council's Worker Memorial Day observance in Forness Park June 4, 2011. Boy Scout Troop 621 took part in a Flag Ceremony. A new memorial bench was also unveiled.

Mayor Witter at Her Alma Mater (6/3/2011)

Mayor Linda Witte was invited back to her Alma Mater June 3, 2011. She was the keynote speaker for the Otto-Eldred High School Class of 2011 Commencement Ceremony.

Salvation Army Thrift Store Grand Opening (6/1/2011)

As a Salvation Army Advisory Board member Mayor Linda Witte took part in the ribbon-cutting for the new Salvation Army Thrift Store opening June 1 in Delaware Plaza.

Memorial Day Parade 2011 (5/29/2011)

The rain ended and the sun came out for the annual Memorial Day Parade, warming spectators on North Union street May 29. Mayor Linda Witte marched with her granddaughter, and posed with Alderman Renee Williams and Ms. Williams’ daughter. One spectator found a wet spot to keep cool during the parade.

Mayor Witte, Alderman Renee Williams and her daughter participated in the special memorial ceremony honoring slain soldiers, held each year at the South Union Street bridge.

Service To Youth Award Ceremony (5/26/2011)

The City of Olean’s Youth Bureau and Recreation Department held a Service to Youth Award Ceremony May 26, 2011 in the Old Library Restaurant. Receiving Service to Youth Awards were Debbie Griffin, Michael Litt, Joyce Nudd, Tony Nudd and Lyde Van Scoy. Also receiving certificates were Mayor’s Scholarship recipients, Courtney Fahy, Paul Pezzimenti and Jessica Swetland; along with the Olean High School Interact Club and the Mayor’s Neighborhood Preservation Committee. Awards were presented by Mayor Linda Witte, Olean Youth Bureau and Recreation Department Director John Anastasia and Youth Bureau Advisory Board Chairman Joseph DeCerbo.

Pictured here are: (from left) Ward 2 Alderwoman Ann McLaughlin (Neighborhood Preservation Committee), Matt Witte (Interact Club), Jessica Swetland (Mayor’s Scholarship and Interact Club), Mayor Witte; Service to Youth Award Recipients Lyde Van Scoy, Joyce and Tony Nudd, and Michael Litt; and John Anastasia, Director of the city’s Youth Bureau and Recreation Department.

Assemblyman Joe Giglio and Staff Recognized for Cleanup (5/21/2011)

Wendy Brand, of State Assemblyman Joe Giglio’s staff, accepted a Certificate of Appreciation for her office’s efforts in adopting a street in 2010. The award was presented May 21, 2011 by Ward 2 Alderwoman Ann McLaughlin during the Neighborhood Preservation Committee’s Community Kickoff for 2011.

Volunteers Painting Bradner's Stadium Fence (5/21/2011)

Bradner Stadium’s steel fence was painted on the morning of May 21, 2011 by volunteers from Living Waters and Hillside Wesleyan Churches, some city officials including Mayor Witte and volunteer city residents. (Right) Living Waters Pastor Mike Nodler (on the ladder in the purple shirt) was a key motivational force in this effort. (Middle) Volunteers had to scrape the steel first before painting. The fence bordering East State Street is being torn down at this writing, and will be replaced with a black chain-link fence. At noon Saturday the volunteers joined the Neighborhood Preservation Committee in War Vet’s Park for hot dogs and an awards ceremony. (Left) Helping out with cooking chores were Ann McLaughlin (Alderman, Ward 2), her daughter, Stevie and her husband, Tim McLaughlin.

Annual Police Memorial 2011 (5/20/2011)

More than 50 people attended the Annual Police Memorial in the Olean Common Council Chambers May 20, 2011. Numerous law enforcement and safety officials, including two retired police chiefs, were in attendance)

Police Chief Terry Schnell lauded police for placing their lives in danger)

Former Mayor David Carucci, Mayor Linda Witte, City Auditor Fred Saradin, and City Attorney Wendy Peterson joined police and their family members at the ceremony)

Walking School Bus (5/17/2011)

Mayor Linda Witte participated in the Walking School Bus on the morning of May 17, an event that is designed to get families out of their cars and walking to school. Helping out with the exercise were (Left) Olean City School Superintendent Colleen Taggerty; (Center) Julie Barnes, of Americorps and the Cattaraugus County Department of Social Services; and (Right) Shanie Certo, aide at Ivers J. Norton Elementary School.

Nursing Home Week (5/9/2011)

Mayor Linda Witte issued a special Proclamation setting aside May 8 through May 14, 2011 as Nursing Home Week in the City of Olean. On May 9, 2011 she marked the occasion along with officials who are responsible for the workings of Cattaraugus County’s Pines and Healthcare Rehabilitation Centers. Shown here are Cattaraugus County Legislators Donna Vickman and Jim Boser, Mayor Witte, and Legislators Linda Edstrom and Mike O’Brien.

Street Classics Car Club (5/5/2011)

Members of Olean’s Street Classics Car Club are getting a lot of attention each Thursday night this summer when they display their unique automobiles at their new location in the Olean Center Mall parking lot on North Union Street.

Central Labor Council Recognizes Mayor Witte (4/28/2011)

Mayor Linda Witte was given a plaque honoring her for leadership in health care, government and community service in Olean and Cattaraugus County. She poses here with Karen Fenner, (r) CLC President (USW), and past president Hobart Reinhart, (l) CLC Vice President (NYSUT).

Spring Cleaning 2011 (4/25/2011)

Mayor Linda Witte has recruited teens and young adults to help with volunteer cleanup tasks around the city's public areas. In late May Matt Witte and Jessica Swetland swept sidewalks in front of Jamestown Community College. Spike Allen, Matt Witte and Tony Vinscavage strike a pose to show off an area cleaned on the same day.

Easter Egg Hunt 2011 (4/22/2011)

An estimated 400 children hunted for Easter Eggs in the William O. Smith Recreation Center. The Easter Bunny and the Applebee Bumblebee were a big hit with Mayor Witte (left) and an Easter Egg Hunter.

East State Paving 2011 (4/5/2011)

East State Street Paving 2011

In early April 2011 the City closed one lane of East State Street to repair weathered pavement.

Yellow Rose Award 2011 (2/4/2011)

Della Moore, right, received the Zonta Club of Olean's 2011 Yellow Rose Award for her commitment to education and volunteerism. The award was presented by Diane Balaban, left, during a celebration of International Women's Day. Ms. Moore is the Director and a founder of the African American Center for Cultural Development at the corner of Third and Green Streets in Olean.

Elk of the Year Awards 2011 (3/26/2011)

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks held its annual Elk of the Year Awards Dinner March 26, 2011 in the B.P.O. Elks Lodge #491, 209 W. State St., Olean. Mayor Linda Witte presented Yvonne Peace with the Key to the City.

Shown here are (l-r) Exalted Ruler and Master of Ceremonies James E. Theodore, Jr., Mayor Linda Witte, Elk of the Year Yvonne Peace, Citizen of the Year Mark Crino, and Officer of the Year, Edward Foster.

Mayors for Meals (3/23/2011)

Participants in the annual Mayors for Meals event March 23, 2011 saw meals delivered by Mayor Linda Witte, flanked by her team of volunteers, Ron and Marilyn Gross at left; and District 10 County Legislator Linda Edstrom in the center with the volunteer team of Carol Windsor at her left, and Barb Metz at her right; joined by the volunteer team of Hal and Ruth Sodeur on the right.

Souper Bowl of Caring 2011 (2/4/2011)

On Feb. 4 Mayor Linda Witte handed over three boxes of donated food items to Olean High School Junior Maria Skrobacz, the Olean Coordinator of the Souper Bowl of Caring drive. The items, donated by Olean City employees and visitors during the one-week effort, will be given to the Olean Food Pantry.

Boy Scout Troop 621 (1/25/2011)

Members of the Boy Scout Troop 621 led the Olean Common Council in the Pledge of Allegiance prior to the January 25, 2011 Council session. The boys and their advisors also took a tour of the Olean Municipal Building and met with Mayor Linda Witte in her office. The visit earned the boys credits toward a special badge.

(l-r) Chad Monkhouse, Ethan Kelley, Kurt Monkhouse, Corey Nedell, Nathan Hawkins, Brayden Hawkins, Adam Cashimere, Scoutmaster Tom Scott and Gary DeLong.

Governor Cuomo's State of the State Address (1/13/2011)

Mayor Linda Witte and several officials traveled from the city of Olean Jan. 13 to see Governor Andrew Cuomo deliver the State of the State Address in the Jackson Center in Jamestown. She was accompanied by City Auditor Fred Saradin, Community Development Program Coordinator Mary George, Common Council President Frank Steffen (Ward 7), Ward 2 Alderman Ann McLaughlin, and Ward 5 Alderman Jim Finch.

OHS Interact Club Competition Raises Almost $700 (1/2011)

This team of Olean High School students won first prize for their snow sculpture in the Interact Club's January benefit to raise money for a school in Africa. Thirteen teams competed in January and raised almost $700. Mayor Witte was one of the judges.

Operation Warm Hearts (12/22/2010)

Volunteers filled about 100 Operation Warm Heart gift bags for area seniors. Most of these were delivered by the Meals on Wheels nutrition volunteers before Christmas. Mayor Linda Witte (second from right) delivered the gift bags to the Cattaraugus County Department of Aging Nutrition Program staff

(l-r) Cathy Mackay, Lisa Swaciak and Department Director Cherianne Wold.

Toys For Tots (12/17/2010)

Mayor Linda Witte handed over three large boxes of toys collected for Toys for Tots in the Municipal Building foyer between Thanksgiving and Dec. 17. The toys were given to the program's Southern Tier coordinator Reggie Dallaire and soldiers from the Marine Corps Reserve who distributed them to needy children.

Cancer Prevention Training (12/8/2010)

Laurie Adams, the Chautauqua-Cattaraugus-Allegany County Tobacco Coalition Coordinator, led a Cancer Prevention Seminar for city employees on Dec. 8, 2011.

OHS Students Interview Mayor (12/1/2010)

Mayor Linda Witte was interviewed Dec. 1, 2010 by several Olean High School students, (l-r) Olivia Mulherin, Desmond White, Zach Marra and Anthony Vinscavage. They wanted her thoughts on why someone would start up a small business in Western New York, in Olean.

Unstoppable at Santa Claus Lane Parade (11/26/2010)

These students from Otto-Eldred acted in the movie Unstoppable, parts of which were filmed in the Olean area. They rode with Mayor Witte on her Frosty the Snowman float in the Santa Claus Lane Parade.

Wedding Vow Renewal Ceremony at The Pines (11/16/2010)

Mayor Linda Witte was part of a very special ceremony Nov. 16, 2010, when 12 couples renewed their vows in in The Pines Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center in Olean. The couples, who were married between seven years and 65 years ago, recited vows read by Fr. Greg Dobson and Pastor Willis Webb. The group and their families and friends celebrated afterward with lunch, wedding cake and entertainment in the Atrium.

Re-joined were Ameil and Mary Ash, Ronald and Shirley Hurlburt, Ralph and Beverly Aloi, Willis and Leah Webb, Viola and Gerald Stevens, Norman and Eva Carlson, Donald and Ella Kasperek, June and Ralph Liberatore, Thomas and Arlouine Magee, Bernard and JoAnn Mazza, Bernard and Virginia McGavisk, and David and Evon Phillips. The couples were introduced by Nursing Homes Director Maureen Mooney-Myers and a closing prayer was delivered by Dottie Koch. Rose Luzier created the cake, Kathy Maybe donated the champagne.

Veteran's Day Ceremonies (11/11/2010)

Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts turned out to take part in the 2010 Veterans Day activities.

Halloween at the Municipal Building!! (10/29/2010)

Mayor Linda Witte hands out candy to the 2- and 3-year-olds from the Olean Child Day Care who asked the age-old question, “Trick or Treat?” on a visit to the Municipal Building Friday, Oct. 29, 2010.

“Turbo” was unveiled by Dresser-Rand Co. (10/21/2010)

Turbo welcomes visitors and passers-by at the manufacturer’s main gate on Wayne Street. Turbo was created by artist Nora Wilson-Wheeler and sports a time-capsule lunch-box and a real wrench, items that were used by the artist’s husband during his employment at the company. He’s the latest in the city’s colorful squirrel lineup.

Front l-r : Bob and Amy Sherburne, the originators of the Squirrel City concept; Jerry Walker, Vice President & General Manager for NAO Operations Dresser-Rand ; Vince Trupiano, General Manager, Olean Operations Dresser-Rand; Carrie Czerwinski, Human Resources Senior Manager, Olean Operations Dresser-Rand; Olean Mayor Linda Witte; John Baglione , President, United Steelworkers Local 4601 Back l-r: Dan Larson, Olean Controller Dresser-Rand; Dan Coletti, Demand Manager Dresser-Rand; John Stahley, Director of Olean Operations Dresser-Rand; Dan Hinz, Director of Olean Supply Chain Management Dresser-Rand; Scott Kaffka, Director of Olean Engineering Dresser-Rand.

Brownfields Opportunity Area Demo (10/21/2010)

This was the scene Oct. 21, 2010, after Phase II demolition of old industrial buildings was completed in the Brownfields Opportunity Area off Wayne Street. This is a view of Homer Hill beyond a concrete foundation of a former building that will stay in place.

Boy Scouts Visit the Municipal Building (10/19/2010)

Members of Boy Scout Pack 621 visited the Olean Municipal Building to attend a Common Council session Oct. 19. Alderman Linda Edstrom, Ward 4, greeted Boy Scout Dominic Quinn, Pack 621, during a break in the proceedings.

ADVISORY BOARD PREPARES FOR OBI’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY (10/14/2010)

The Olean Business Institute’s Advisory Board held an anniversary planning luncheon Oct. 14 in the Old Library and invited Mayor Linda Witte and Program Coordinator Mary George of the Community Development Office.

Attending the meeting were: (l-r) OBI Advisory Board Chairperson Mark Kratts, Admissions and Placement Director Carl English, Mary George, Mayor Witte, OBI Advisory Board member Pam Caldwell, OBI Academic Dean Kim Marcellin, OBI Advisory Board member Sandy Sleggs, OBI Advisory Board member Maureen Curry, OBI President Jennifer Madison, OBI Financial Aid Director Valerie Goodwin, OBI Business Manager Debra Ralston.

Main Street Repaving (9/23/2010)

Main Street repaving work began in Mid-September 2010.

Olean General Hospital opens new birthing unit (9/15/2010)

Mayor Linda Witte was among the dignitaries who cut the ribbon on a new birthing unit at Olean General Hospital Sept. 15, 2010. Cutting the ribbon, l-r, Hospital CEO Tim Finan, OGH Board President Dave Prince, Mayor Witte, Pediatrics Chief Dr. Srinivas Thandla, OB Chief Dr. Tahir Chauhdry, Board member Dennis Pezzimenti, and OB Manager Mary Beyth.

9/11 Ceremony (9/11/2010)

A host of officials celebrated a 9/11 Memorial Ceremony at the Central Fire Station. Taking part in addition to city officials were Boy Scout Troop 617 and St. Bonaventure University's ROTC cadets.

Blood Drive (9/11/2010)

Mayor Linda Witte and City Attorney Secretary Kelly Sweet were among the people who donated blood at the Central Fire Station during the Red Cross Blood Drive on Sept. 11, 2010.

Neighborhood Preservation Moved To Garden Avenue (9/9/2010)

In addition to picking up litter and trash, volunteers contacted residents about participating in a community policing effort. Neighborhood Watch signs like the one here are placed in windows to deter crime and give residents a ready reference to call authorities for assistance.

Governor's Aide Visits Olean (9/8/2010)

Mayor Witte escorted Tom Carpenter, Governor David Paterson’s regional representative, on a tour of several Olean industries and the Brownfields Opportunity Area.

Mayor’s Housing Rehabilitation Committee 9/2010)

Hornell city officials met Oct. 4 with members of the Mayor’s Housing Rehabilitation Committee to discuss housing issues. (l-r Alderman Jim Finch, Common Council President Frank Steffen, Code Enforcement Officer Ed Jennings, Alderman Ann McLaughlin, Community Development Program Coordinator Mary George, Assessor Nancy Champlin, Hornell Mayor Shawn Hogan, Hornell Director of Facilities Management and Neighborhood Revitalization Jeff Johnson, Mayor Linda Witte)

Ralley in the Valley 2010!! (8/27/2010)

Mayor Linda Witte posed on one of the parked machines lining Bradner Stadium, courtesy of one of the many Ralley participants. The event brought many welcome visitors and business to our city!

Mayor's Team Wins the 2010 Gus Macker Tournament!!!!! (8/21-22/2010)

The victorious members of the Mayor’s Team: (l-r) Kevin O’Laughlin, Scott Brady, Maria Skrobacz, Ashley Pfeiffer, and Kyle Clark.

Wilson Farms Remodels (8/13/2010)

Wilson Farms unveiled its newly remodeled facility in downtown Olean on Aug. 13, 2010. Participating in a ribbon-cutting by Wilson Farms’ regional managers were Olean Mayor Linda Witte, and Aldermen Ann McLaughlin (Ward 2), Linda Edstrom (Ward 4), and Jim Finch (Ward 5).

Neighborhood Cleanup Staged on Washington Street (8/5/2010)

On Aug. 5 Volunteers swept a roughly 20-block area around the Washington Street/Oak Hill Park neighborhood, also organizing Neighborhood Watch .
Seen in these photos among the volunteers were Neighborhood Preservation Committee Mayor Linda Witte, Cochairman Lila Ervay, Ward 2 Alderman Ann McLaughlin and her daughter Stevie, Ward 3 Alderman Jeff Capitani, Olean Police Sgt. Ron Richardson, Code Enforcement Officer Eric Maurouard of the Olean City Fire Department, WPIG News Reporter Nick Purcio, and youth volunteers, Whitney Kasper and Jake Rickey.

Mayor's Trophy 2010 (8/1/2010)

Mayor Linda Witte selected Chuck Riordan’s cherry red 1936 Chevrolet to receive the Mayor’s Trophy at the Street Classic’s Car Club Cruise for a Cure, held in Gargoyle Park Aug. 1, 2010. Chuck Riordan resides on Route 98 in Franklinville. The event raises funds to benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. 278 classic cars were on display and 1200 spectators enjoyed the view.

Senior Picnic at Gargoyle Park (8/2010)

Senior citizens from all over Cattaraugus County enjoy this annual gala event. This year's theme was called "Tropical Holiday". A group of local lawmakers attended the Senior Picnic. Left to right, they are: County Legislator Bill Aiello, Dist. 10; County Legislator Jim Boser, Dist. 7; City Alderman Ann McLaughlin, Ward 2, and her daughter Stevie; County Legislator Leo Nenno, Dist. 10; Olean Mayor Linda Witte; County Legislator John Padlo, Dist. 10; and County Legislator Donna Vickman, District 5.

Tornado Damage (7/24/2010)

At least a dozen of the city’s old shade trees were among many trees seriously damaged or destroyed by winds – remnants of the tornados that passed through the county July 24. Street trees are located in the subways and are maintained by the city’s part-time forester, Sue Cooper. Mrs. Cooper said of the most seriously affected street trees, five were located on North Third Street (near the one shown in the photo), three were growing in Marcus Park and one was located on West Sullivan Street. Two more of the city’s trees were located on South Barry Street and Laurel Avenue. Large branches brought down in the storm on private property can be placed in the subways and will be picked up by the Streets Department crews as they perform their duties around the city.

Explore Route 16 (7/1/2010)

“Explore Route 16” is the motto of The Route 16 Corridor Community Partnership and its “Bike Art” campaign, which has installed the showy flower-laden bicycles along the highway from Yorkshire south to Rock City Hill. The non-profit Partnership is a cooperative branding effort by the communities along Route 16. The organization is working to improve the economic conditions and attractiveness of the corridor and each year sponsors the Sweet 16 Bike Tour and other events. Future plans are to establish a signage system to identify key tourism destinations.

Into the Woods "Cast" (7/2010)

For several days in July and August Oak Hill Park was home to some four-legged cast members of the Twin Tier Theater production, “Into the Woods.” The play, by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine, produced July 29 - Aug.1 and again Aug. 7 and 8.

Training Tower Spruce Up (7/2010)

The City of Olean’s fire training tower near Gargoyle Park was spruced up and painted this summer (2010) with funding aid from the Cattaraugus County Legislature.

West Green Street (6/24/2010)

Volunteers converged June 24 on the West Green Street neighborhood for a cleanup and organize a Neighborhood Watch group. Afterward they met for refreshments.

Left picture: Della Moore, Inv. Ron Richardson, Fireman Roger Howard, Lila Ervay and Alderman Casey Jones
Center picture: Mayor Linda Witte, Police Inv. Ron Richardson, Fireman Roger Howard, Lila Ervay and Alderman Casey Jones
Right picture: Lila Ervay, Aldermen Jeff Capitani and Casey Jones.

Olean School Trip to the Municipal Building (6/17/2010)

East View Elementary School’s second-grade class toured the Olean Municipal Building June 17, 2010. The Police Station is a favorite spot for school groups.

Opening Ceremony of the 2010 New York State Fraternal Order of Eagles Convention (6/17/2010)

Olean Police Capt. Kurt Ireland, Cattaraugus County Sheriff Tim Whitcomb, and Olean Fire Chief Robert Bell joined Mayor Linda Witte in welcoming remarks at the Opening Ceremony of the 2010 New York State Fraternal Order of Eagles Convention June 17, 2010. The Olean Aerie #616 hosted several hundred delegates and visitors from all over New York who took part in the annual convention.

East View visits the Municipal Building (6/15/2010)

Fourth Graders from Mr. Charles' East View Elementary School toured the Municipal Building June 15 and had a chance to interview the Mayor.

Best Wishes to the Prices! (6/11/2010)

The happy couple, Randy and Colleen Price, were united June 11, 2010 in a marriage ceremony performed by Mayor Linda Witte. Mayor Witte works with the Prices at Olean General Hospital.Best wishes to the Prices!

Congrats to Olean High School Girls Softball! (6/2010)

On June 11, 2010 a group of boosters staged a big send-off at the Country Fare parking lot for the Olean High School Girls Softball Team and several competitors from Allegany, Olean Portville and Jamestown High School track teams. The athletes competed at “States” competition in Waterloo.

The following day, June 12, 2010, the Girls’ Softball Team showed off their trophy in a welcome-home staged by well-wishers who gathered about 9 p.m. in front of the Olean Municipal Building. They returned with a second place ranking in Class B, Division 6.

Memorial Day Parade (5/31/2010)

A great big thank-you to all who participated in the 2010 Memorial Day Parade and ceremony – a spectacle that drew lots of spectators and participants and grew by leaps and bounds this year. We’re looking forward to adding to the crowd and seeing more participation in the parade next year.

Olean Volunteers!! Cleaning Up North Union Street (5/30/2010)

Two groups of volunteers came out May 30 and June 20, 2010 to spruce up the curbs and “eyebrows” along North Union Street. Helping out were Mayor Linda Witte, Jessica Swetland, Matthew Witte and Dr. Gilbert Witte, Brandon Jones, Tony Vinscavage and Tina Mercer.

Olean Volunteers!! Planting Flowers on West State Street (5/28/2010)

A group of Eighth Graders from Olean Middle School helped the city's forester, Sue Cooper, plant flowers around the trees on West State Street on May 28. The volunteer effort is in its eighth year!

Mayor’s Neighborhood Preservation Task Force Cleanup (5/20/2010)

The Mayor’s Neighborhood Preservation Task Force continued cleanup efforts May 20 in the Henley Street area. The Task Force’s organizers took a break and had some refreshments at the end of the event. Shown here are City Attorney Secretary Kelly Sweet, Alderman Gary “Casey” Jones (Ward 6), Cathy Chase, Tim Richardson, Alderman Jim Finch (Ward 5), and Lila Ervay.. They were joined by some very willing and energetic BOCES student volunteers.

Nursing Home Week (5/10/2010)

Mayor Linda L. Witte provided a proclamation for Nursing Home Week during a celebration May 10, 2010 at the Pines in Olean. Present for the occasion were (l-r) County Legislators Donna Vickman and Michael O’Brien, Mayor Witte, and Cattaraugus County Nursing Homes Director Maureen Mooney-Myers. Seated in the center is Helen Philbrick, whose son is County Legislator Norman Marsh. Marsh was present at the event but took the picture. Also seated is Nancy Rickicki.

Labor Memorial Ceremony (5/8/2010)

Mayor Linda Witte read a proclamation and addressed a crowd of officials and representatives of the Central Labor Council during a ceremony May 8, 2010 at the Labor Memorial in Forness Park.

Neighborhood Preservation Committee kicks off its cleanup campaign in the JCC neighborhood (5/6/2010)

About 30 volunteers gathered in JCC’s parking lot at 6 p.m. May 6, 2010, and scattered in groups to pick up litter along North Clinton, Hamilton, North Barry, Laurel and Tompkins Streets. According to Ward 6 Alderman Gary “Casey” Jones, six full 40-gallon bags were collected during the 90-minute effort.

The Mayor’s Neighborhood Preservation Committee organized the effort, which includes a Neighborhood Watch component and will continue May 13 in the Henley Street neighborhood. Among the volunteers were members of the JCC Student Senate who will return to pick up the neighborhood on a regular basis in the future. Also participating were Alderman Linda Edstrom (Ward 4), City Attorney Wendy Peterson, City Public Works Director Ashok Kapoor, Police Sargent Ron Richardson, Firefighter Tim Richardson, former alderman Steve Teachman, and key organizers of the effort and former aldermen Joyce Melfi and Paula Snyder. Lila Erva, a community leader and key Preservation Committee member, handed out gloves and bags. JCC hosted a pizza party and Mayor Linda Witte provided refreshments at the end of the day.

City Helps Eastview Elementary Plant a Tree for 2010 Arbor Day (4/30/2010)

Eastview Elementary students look on as Mayor Linda Witte and Scott Graham, a city of Olean Fireman and parent of an Eastview Elementary student, plant the northern red oak (Quercus Rubra) tree. The oak was furnished by the Eastview Parent Teacher Organization and replaces a large red oak that was completely removed after it was damaged in a storm.

The Arbor Day Tree is flanked by (from left) PTO President Karen Graham, City Forester Sue Cooper, Mayor Linda L. Witte and Eastview Maintenance worker, Mr. Lampack.

March of Dimes Walk (4/25/2010)

More than 200 walkers hit the goal of $56,000 during the annual March of Dimes Walk on Sunday, April 25. This team of obstetrics staff members from Olean General Hospital marched in the rain to raise funds and gathered at War Veterans Park afterward. Pictured are Obstetrics Manager Mary Beth, Diana Beil, Micki Orcutt, Karen Graham, Melissa Webb, Andrea Foster, Kelly Shea, Gretchen Anderson and Mayor Linda Witte.

Mayor Selects a Capable Professional Staff (4/15/2010)

City Attorney Wendy Peterson (left) and her secretary, Kelly Sweet, provide legal support for Mayor Linda Witte's administration.

Magnolia Tree (4/15/2010)

The Magnolia tree, along with the mural on the facade of the Municipal Building flank some picturesque benches that were in use at various times on a balmy April 15, 2010.

Oak Hill Cleanup (4/2010)

Students organized by BonaResponds and the Liberty Club helped jump start the Neighborhood Preservation Committee’s cleanup efforts by removing leaves, garbage and debris from Oak Hill Park on a warm April weekend. As these volunteers, and the groups mustered by the Mayor’s Neighborhood Preservation Committee, move through the city’s neighborhoods, they will deposit garbage bags along city streets to be picked up by Streets Department workers.

Celebrating Women's Achievements (3/18/2010)

On March 18, 2010 Zonta Club of Olean presented Angela Rhodes (standing, left) with its “Celebrating Women’s Achievements Award. The 2010 Yellow Rose Recipients were Mayor Linda Witte (standing, center), Laurie Branch (right), Carrie Wolfe (left, seated) and Shirley Heath (center, seated)

Celebrating Women's History Month (3/14/2010)

Mayor Linda Witte read a series of Proclamations to women and girls who attended the First Annual Women's Tea, held at The Bartlett House March 14, 2010 in honor of Women's History Month. Additional photos of this well-attended event can be seen on the Historical Society's web page on this site.

105 Years!! (3/3/2010)

Emil Chiavetta, 105, was recognized by Mayor Linda Witte in a birthday proclamation presented during his party held March 3, 2010 at Eden Heights Nursing Home.

100 Years!! (3/2/2010)

Gordon C. Morley, an Olean businessman who now resides in The Pines Health Care and Rehabilitation Facility on West State Street, received a proclamation from Mayor Linda Witte during his 100^th birthday celebration March 2. The celebration was attended by family members and well-wishers.

Students Visit the City Building (1/22/2010)

10 students the Multi-Age Enrichment class from Washington West Elementary School touring the City building

Back row: Brianna Curtin, Saad Mirza, Cameron Kane, Adam Moses, Hannah Stayer, Ty Johnson, and Multi-Age Enrichment teacher Cari Matejka (standing at rear); Front row: Mayor Linda Witte (seated), Riley Mikolajczyk, Dylan Dyal, Aliyah Tejera, Meagan Bruso

City Responds to House Fire (1/8/2010)

City officials toured the site of one of the city’s first house fires of 2010. Olean City Firefighters responded to the blaze at the North Union Street location during the Common Council’s annual organizational meeting. Touring the scene on the morning of Jan. 8 are: Olean City Aldermen Mike Kayes (Ward 2), Mayor Linda Witte, Ray Wangelin (Common Council President – Ward 3), Olean City Fire Chief Robert Bell, Jim Finch (Ward 5), Linda Edstrom (Ward 4), and Code Enforcement Office Director Lt. Ed Jennings;

New Mayor's Reception (1/4/2010)

The Olean City School District’s Studio 107 Chamber Players, led by Director Rintaro Wada, provided a lovely backdrop during a reception for Mayor Linda Witte’s new administration. The reception was held in the John J. Ash Community Center in North Barry Street immediately following the Common Council’s Annual meeting and swearing-in ceremony on the evening of Jan. 4.

Photo by Kathy Kellogg

It's Official: Witte Sworn in as Mayor (1/4/2010)

Linda Witte, center, is sworn in as mayor of the city of Olean by Judge Daniel Palumbo Jan. 4 at the Olean Municipal Building. Mayor Witte's husband, Dr. Gilbert Witte, holds the Bible.

Photo by Michael Hastings/Olean Times Herald.

First Day (1/4/2010)

Mayor Linda Witte’s first day at work in the mayor’s office early on the morning of Jan. 4, 2010.

Photo by Kathy Kellogg