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Timezone: EDT [UTC-4]| Thu: | 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm [ - ] | Sun: | 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm* [ - ] |
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Community Matters is a weekly, hour long program focusing on various issues that relate to the Jamestown and Chautauqua Region. Featuring various guests, recaps of important news, and the occasional commentary from WRFA Public Affairs Director Julia Ciesla-Hanley, Community Matters is your source for engaging and relevant radio programming in Chautauqua County.
Audio from 0ur past shows can be found at our Soundcloud Page
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It’s National Small Business Week this week. WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with Small Business Development Center at JCC Director Courtney Curatolo about small business here in Chautauqua County and the many services offered for aspiring […]
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with Slab City Organics Owner Greg Rater about the designation he’s received from New York State to become a composting facility just as the State’s new guidelines for food donations and […]
We’ll dive into the history a little more about the former Empire Worsted Mills, which received a new historical marker here in Jamestown, NY.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley talks with Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist about what’s in store for September, including how the city is handling increases in COVID cases in the area.
The United Way of Southern Chautauqua County kicked off its annual campaign September 9th. We’ll hear more from Executive Director Amy Rohler on the organization’s goals for this year.
Jamestown Public Schools recently received a $240,000 grant through the Strong Starts Chautauqua Initiative. We’ll learn more about this program from JPS Student Support Services Director Dr. Jill Muntz.
WRFARadio · Community Matters – Infinity Visual and Performing Arts – September 2, 2021 WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley talks with Infinity and Visual Performing Arts Executive Director Shane Hawkins and Artistic Director Jamie Lee Bonfiglio Davis […]
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley speaks with James Prendergast Library Assistant Library Manager Jennifer Champ about the library’s successful Summer program season and new programs for the Fall.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley speaks with Chautauqua County Humane Society‘s Partnership Director Brian Papalia about the Pet Film Fest taking place this month, “Walk 4 Paws,” and more.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley speaks with Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel about New York’s new Governor, Kathy Hochul; the increase in COVID-19 cases and mask requirements, as well as how the county budget process is going.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with Jamestown Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Kevin Whitaker about the upcoming new year, having students back in-person, and how the Small Cities Funding lawsuit ruling potentially affects Jamestown.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with Democratic Candidate for Chautauqua County Executive Norm Green to get to know him a little better and find out why he’s running for the office.
We hear more from Jamestown Planning Commission Chairman Greg Rabb on his thoughts on how the City of Jamestown should best allocate monies received in the American Rescue Plan.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley talked to Prevention Works Associate Director Laurie Reynolds about a support program she helped create for parents with children who have autism as well as a new program for kids that’s taking […]
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with Jamestown Community College‘s Vice President of Student Affairs Dr. Kirk Young about how JCC has worked to be ready to welcome students back on campus this school year.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley catches up with Reg Lenna Center for the Arts‘ Marketing & Communication Director Len Barry to tell us about how the Reg weathered this past year under the pandemic and how they’re […]
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist about what happens now that the public has given input on the city’s proposed plan to spend $28 million dollars in recovery funds. He also talks […]
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with Jamestown Babe Ruth World Series Committee Members Kim Ecklund and Russ Diethrick about the World Series event coming to Jamestown next week.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley talked to Chautauqua County Humane Society‘s Brian Papalia about events coming up where you can participate and show support for the organization.
County Executive PJ Wendel joins us to talk about an influx of funds coming to Chautauqua County and how those funds will be used. We also talk the ever changing guidelines or suggestions around COVID-19.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley talked about National Farmer’s Market Week with Jamestown Public Market Director Linnea Carlson
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley met with Chautauqua Sports Hall of Fame Executive Director Randy Anderson about what the Hall of Fame is up to this year and more.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley talks to Assemblyman Andy Goodell about his thoughts on the last State Legislative session and what he hopes to accomplish in the next session.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley speaks with new Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce CEO and President Dan Heitzenrater.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County‘s Katie Ewer about the 4-H UnFair programming happening this week.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with Mayor Eddie Sundquist about his thoughts on the recent vandalism of the Underground Railroad Tableau in Dow Park, gun control, how the City is proposing spending some of the $28 […]
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley sat down Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce CEO Todd Tranum to reflect on his 20 years with the Manufacturer’s Association and the Chamber as he prepares to move on from the chamber […]
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with Chautauqua County Health Department Epidemiologist Bree Agett about why the department wants you to get your Hepatitis A vaccine
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with Audubon Community Nature Center Executive Director Leigh Rovegno about how you can help prevent the spread of a songbird mortality event.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with County Executive PJ Wendel about the availability of bed tax monies for tourism projects, the opening of a new cell at the Landfill in Ellery, collaborative efforts with other county […]
We welcomed the Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy back to our studios to get an update on their new initiatives as well as discussion the new Chautauqua Lake Memorandum of Understanding and Chautauqua Lake District.
The Jamestown Noon Rotary Club‘s Literacy Committee traditionally has promoted literacy with children, but with the Pandemic decided to try a new avenue. WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with Committee members Diana Meckley, Marion Beckerink, and […]
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley speaks with Jamestown YMCA Operations Director John Barber about the Y’s Free Summer Feeding Program for area youth.
The State of Emergency in New York State for COVID-19 ended June 24, 2021. We talk with County Executive PJ Wendel about that as well as concerns about solar and wind power; and more.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with State DEC Wildlife Biologist Jeremy Hurst about Chronic Wasting Disease in deer now that a case was found just over the Pennsylvania border. He also gave an update on proposed […]
UPMC Chautauqua is looking to make a $3.5 million investment in its Imaging Department. Imaging Department Director Tammara Hodges will tell us about that project.
“Riverside Saturdays” start at the National Comedy Center‘s Comedy Park this weekend. NCC Executive Director Journey Gunderson will tell us what’s new since we last heard about the program.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with State Senator George Borrello on his thoughts on the State Legislative session that just wrapped up last week. He also tells us more about efforts to get the Nourish New […]
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with Jamestown School Superintendent Dr. Kevin Whitaker who gave a recap on the 2020-21 school year and what’s up next for the district.
Western New York and all of New York State are experiencing a gypsy moth outbreak. We joined a press conference with State Department of Environmental Conservation Forester Rob Cole to find out more about this […]
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with County Executive PJ Wendel about the results of a study on the reuse of the NRG Power Plant in Dunkirk, Governor Cuomo’s announcement that once the state hits 70% vaccination […]
June is Dairy month in the United States. WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with Cornell Cooperative Extension‘s Katelyn Walley-Stoll about challenges faced by dairy farmers as well as their economic impact on our community.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley speaks with Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist on changes we’ve seen at the City level one year after the murder of George Floyd as well as an update on the American Rescue Plan […]
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley talks with Jamestown Public Schools Chief Academic Officer Michelle McDowell about the District’s efforts to combat summer slide and learning gaps caused by the pandemic by expanding its summer learning programs.
The Chautauqua County Humane Society is in the middle of kitten season. WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley talks with Brian Papalia about adoption and fostering options as well as how you can help the organization financially.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley speaks with County Executive PJ Wendel about what’s happening with the Chautauqua Lake District, kayak launches, Memorial Day, and more
The annual Hope & Healing Conference takes place June 10th. WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley talks to County Mental Hygiene‘s Steve Kilburn and Prevention Works Executive Director Melanie Witkowski about this year’s virtual conference.
Memorial Day weekend is a kind of unofficial kick off to summer. WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with American Red Cross‘ Meg Rossman who gives us some tips to help make this summer a safe one.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley talked to County Mental Hygiene‘s Steve Kilburn and Evergreen Health‘s Ian Eastman about how drug overdose deaths are up significantly for 2021.
WRFARadio · Community Matters – Linnea Carlson – May 20, 2021 WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley talked about public markets, mobile markets, community gardens, and more with Public Market Director Linnea Carlson.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley talked to National Comedy Center Executive Director Journey Gunderson about the Center’s Summer Fun weeks and Riverside Saturdays series that they’re planning.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley talked to Lutheran Corporate Recruiter Lisa Melquist about how assisted living facilities are dealing with recruitment issues.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with County Executive PJ Wendel about the new Chautauqua Lake MOU, a new Food System Map, updates on the Mental Hygiene Department, and more.
New York State has extended the moratorium on utility companies shutting off services to customers affected by the Pandemic. WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with Jamestown BPU‘s Frank Galeazzo about how this is affecting our local […]
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke to James Prendergast Library Executive Director Anne Greene about the library’s new fundraiser as well as summer programming.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with Public Works Senior Civil Engineer Mark Schlemmer about the City of Jamestown’s street work projects for this summer.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley talked to Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist about the latest on COVID-19 guidelines and events, municipal broadband, and more.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley discussed the 2021-22 Jamestown School Budget that’s up for a vote on May 18th with School Superintendent Dr. Kevin Whitaker
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with Western New York Land Conservancy Deputy Executive Director Jajean Rose-Burney about plans to purchase property next to Allegany State Park as well as the WNY Wildway.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley talks to Chautauqua County Humane Society‘s Brian Papalia about their Pennies 4 Paws fundraiser, fostering bunnies, adopting kittens, and more.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with Jamestown Renaissance Corporation Executive Director Frank Besse on rehabilitation work happening at Potter’s Terrace–AIDS Memorial Park
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with County Executive PJ Wendel about various developments in guidelines when it comes to COVID-19, the future of the Jamestown Airport and some news about Chautauqua Lake.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with Marvin Community House Consultant Marlin Casker and Fenton History Center Executive Director Noah Goodling about their joint project to bring QR-code self-guided tours to their facilities.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with Cornell Cooperative Extension Field Crop Specialist Josh Putnam about current soil conditions and what’s going on with the growing season in Chautauqua County.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with Jamestown Board of Public Utilities Communication Coordinator Becky Robbins and Solid Waste Division Administrative Assistant Gloria Miranda about the new garbage container program being rolled out as well as Spring […]
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley and Jamestown Board of Public Utilities Business Development Coordinator Craig Garass-Johnson discussed the NYSERDA grant received by the BPU to advance climate technology manufacturing.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley spoke with County of Chautauqua Industrial Development Agency CEO Mark Geise about the survey results on the formation of a Chautauqua Lake District.
WRFA’s Jason Sample talks with Bob Lingle, owner/operator of Off the Beaten Path bookstore, to learn more about Independent Bookstore Day, happening Saturday, April 24.
WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley talks with Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel to get an update on COVID-19, as well as discussing County Road and Bridge Work projects, and how the new State Budget affects Chautauqua County.
[LISTEN] Community Matters - Electeds Discuss Legalization of Recreational Marijuana: April 15, 2021
State Assemblyman Andy Goodell, State Senator George Borrello, and Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist weigh in on the recently approved legislation that legalizes recreational marijuana in New York State
Amanda Gesing talks with WRFA about the Jamestown YWCA‘s “Stand Against Racism” event scheduled for Friday, April 23, 2021
We talk with Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist about federal COVID funding, borrowing for the city’s parking garages, public safety and police contracts, and much more.
Brian Papalia talks with WRFA’s Julia Ciesla-Hanley to give an update on cat adoptions, the “Pennies 4 Paws” fundraiser, and a “Pawp” Up Adoption event that is scheduled for the Chautauqua Mall on April 10th.
We spoke with State Senator George Borrello about the 2021-22 New York State Budget that was passed this week. Senator Borrello shared his concerns about the $212 Billion spending plan.
U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer was joined by other local officials at the National Comedy Center in Jamestown to discuss the “Save Our Stages” fund as part of the American Rescue Plan this week. We’ll hear […]
The entire Jamestown Community is continuing to mourn the sudden loss of council woman Victoria “Vickye” James, who pass away suddenly on Saturday, March 27. Vickye was known for her love of her family and […]
WRFA’s Jason Sample talks with Chautauqua County executive PJ Wendel to get an update on COVID 19, as well as discussing Marijuana Legalization in New York State and the likelihood of him running unopposed for […]
[LISTEN] Community Matters - Chautauqua County Democratic Chair and Election Commissioner Norm Green
Current Chautauqua County Democratic Election Commissioner and Chautauqua County Democratic Committee Chair Norman Green joins us on Community Matters. Green talks about why he filed a lawsuit against the County Legislature to prevent the appointment […]
WRFA’s Jason Sample talks with Noah Goodling, director of Fenton History Center, and Julia Ciesla-Hanley, communications coordinator for Jamestown Pride, to share details about the upcoming exhibit at the Fenton that focuses on the history […]
Sen. George Borrello (R-NY 57th District) joins us for a conversation and update on news coming out of Albany. We discuss the embattled governor Andrew Cuomo, the State Budget, and COVID response.
Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel talks about the federal COVID-19 relief funding Chautauqua County is set to receive from the federal government, while also reflecting on COVID-19 pandemic on the one-year anniversary of the state […]
The Chautauqua Center has taken over the family planning services previously offered by the Chautauqua County Department of Health. Sarah Gilbert from TCC and Kelly Whitver from the County Health Department are guests on Community […]
We discuss news out of Albany with Assemblyman Andy Goodell (R-Ellicott), who shares his thoughts on the ongoing sexual harassment allegations against Gov. Andrew Cuomo, the COVID-19 vaccination effort, and his thoughts on the State […]
WRFA’s Jason Sample talks with Linnea Carlson, Manager of the Jamestown Public Market, who gives us details about 2021 Virtual Grow Jamestown Garden Fair, coming up later this month on March 27.
We talk with Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist about COVID-19, his hopes for reopening businesses and attractions in the city, a new contract with the the city’s Firefighters Union, and much more.
Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel gives an update on the vaccination effort in the county, along with challenges local residents are experiencing in trying to get vaccinated. He also talks about his future hopes for […]
The Catholic Charities Appeal 2021 is now underway. The appeal is the charitable organization’s annual campaign that helps to raise funding for 57 programs and services throughout WNY. This year’s goal is to raise $10 […]
Congressman Tom Reed talks with regional media about a recent report involving a CDC recommended Vaccination Site in Chautauqua County being scuttled by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, along with several other issues including the $1.9 trillion […]
Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel gives an update on COVID-19, including the ongoing effort to vaccinate country residents.
Andrew Kolstee, chair of the Libertarian Party of Chautauqua County, joins us to discuss the removal of the libertarian party from the New York State election ballot in 2021, and why he and others feel […]
We talk with Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist about his recent bout with COVID-19, Ward 3 Polling, and his State of the City.
Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel discusses the vaccination effort in the county, along with challenges local residents are experiencing in trying to get vaccinated.
WRFA’s Jason Sample talks with Jamestown Public Schools superintendent Kevin Whitaker to discuss how the district is dealing with COVID-19, and also to get an update on the school budget process.
Congressman Tom Reed talks with regional media to discuss the recent GOP Congressional Caucus meeting involving the selection of leadership positions for the new congress, as well as whether or not to take action against […]
Chautauqua County district attorney Jason Schmidt talks with WRFA’s Jason Sample to discuss his first month on the job as the county’s new top prosecutor, while also discussing some of the challenges the office is […]
Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel offers update on the COVID-19 situation in the county – including how the vaccination effort is going and what eligible residents should know if they are waiting to be vaccinated. […]
Jamestown City Council President Tony Dolce talks with WRFA to give an update on some issues and initiatives facing the city and council.
Congressman Tom Reed talks with regional media to share his thoughts on upcoming inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden while also answering questions from the media.
WRFA’s Jason Sample talks with New York State Senator George Borrello (R-NY 23) to get his reaction to Governor Andrew Cuomo’s 2021 State of the State Address, while also discussing some of his own priorities […]
Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel offers update on the COVID-19 situation in the county – including addressing the rise in local cases during the past few weeks as well as where things sit with the […]
Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist offers gives us an update on COVID-19 and its impact on city operations, as well as his reaction to the state’s highest court deciding not to hear an appeal from the […]
WRFA’s Jason Sample talks with Katie Catro, board chair of Community Helping Hands in Jamestown, NY, to talk more about the organization and the services it provides to the community. For more information, also visit […]
WRFARadio · Community Matters – National Comedy Center’s Journey Gunderson: Dec. 17, 2020 WRFA’s Jason Sample talks with Journey Gunderson, executive director of the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, to discuss various accomplishments and initiatives […]
WRFARadio · Community Matters – County Executive PJ Wendel: Dec. 17, 2020 Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel offers update on the COVID-19 situation in the county as numbers continue to rise during the holiday season.
WRFARadio · Community Matters – Jamestown Police Chief Tim Jackson – Dec. 17, 2020 WRFA’s Jason Sample talks with recently appointed Jamestown Police Chief Tim Jackson to learn more about his goals for the JPD, […]
WRFARadio · Community Matters – Keeping Each Other Warm w/Georgeanna Guiffrida Ribbing WRFA’s Jason Sample talks with Georgeanna Guiffrida Ribbing from the Keeping Each Other Warm to learn more about the clothing drive initiative and […]
WRFARadio · Community Matters – County Executive PJ Wendel: Oct. 3, 2020 WRFA’s Jason Sample talks with Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel to get an update on the COVID-19 situation in the county, now that […]
WRFARadio · Community Matters – Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist: Dec. 3, 2020 Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist offers his thoughts on the 2021 city budget that was approved by the Jamestown City Council on Monday, Nov. […]
WRFARadio · Community Matters – Tony Dolce Discusses 2021 City Budget WRFA’s Jason Sample talks with Jamestown City Council President Tony Dolce to preview the 2021 budget that will be voted on Monday night, Nov. […]
WRFARadio · Community Matters – Doug Champ: Nov. 19, 2020 Jamestown resident and community advocate Doug Champ stops by the WRFA studio to share his thoughts on city business and how he tries to remain […]
WRFARadio · Community Matters – Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel: Nov 12, 2020 WRFA’s Jason Sample talks with Chautauqua County executive PJ Wendel for an update on the COVID-19 situation in the county, as well […]
WRFARadio · Community Matters – Jamestown School Superintendent Kevin Whitaker: November 2020 Jamestown Public Schools superintendent Kevin Whitaker gives an update on the district’s preparation and planning for reopening for the 2020-21 school year during […]
WRFARadio · Community Matters – Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist: Nov. 6, 2020 Jamestown mayor Eddie Sundquist discusses several issues involving the city of Jamestown, including a recap of his 2021 Executive Budget and an updated […]
[LISTEN] Community Matters - 2020 Election Recap with Chautauqua County BOE Commissioner Brian Abram
WRFARadio · Community Matters – 2020 Election Recap with Chautauqua County BOE Commissioner Brian Abram WRFA’s Jason Sample talks with County Board of Elections Commissioner Brian Abram to get a recap of how voting went […]
WRFARadio · Community Matters – 2020 Election Recap with J Schmidt, PJ Wendel, A Goodell, and G Borrello WRFA’s Jason Sample gives a recap of the local races for the 2020 election and also interviews […]
