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Gillibrand, others push to cap Medicare costs

U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), ranking member of the Senate Aging Committee, along with 14 of her Senate colleagues, introduced the Medicare Cost Cap Act to create a $5,000 cap on out-of-pocket costs for Traditional Medicare (Parts A and B) beneficiaries. Currently, Traditional Medicare does not have a limit on out-of-pocket costs, meaning beneficiaries are confronted with unlimited, catastrophic health care costs if they face serious illness or hospitalization. Medicare Advantage (MA), employer-sponsored insurance, and insurance bought on the marketplace all have annual caps on ...

Mason Award nominations being sought

Nominations are now being accepted by United Way of Chautauqua County (UWCHQ) for the 2026 Joseph H. Mason Award, an annual honor recognizing a local union member — active or retired — who demonstrates exceptional commitment to community service. Now in its 45th year, the award pays ...

Gowanda commends Nephew for Board tenure

GOWANDA — The final Gowanda Board of Education meeting of the school marked the end of Mark Nephew’s tenure with the district. After 27 years as a Board member, Nephew is stepping down. Nephew, the Mayor of Gowanda, was commended by Superintendent Dr. Robert Anderson and the Board at his ...

Forestville rings in commencement

The Class of 2026 rang the bell one last time on their journey at Forestville Schools. Saturday’s Commencement ceremony served as a celebration of their hard work and a turning point for the next chapter in their stories. Following the traditional pomp and circumstance processional, a ...

County making call for foster parents

MAYVILLE — The Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene and Social Services is seeking compassionate individuals and families to become foster parents and help provide safe, supportive homes for children in our community. Through the Department’s Home Finding team, prospective foster parents receive guidance and support as they explore opening their hearts and homes to children who may not have their basic needs met or a safe place to call home. Foster parents play a critical role by providing temporary, stable, and nurturing care for children who are placed in foster care ...

County offers tips during extreme heat

The Chautauqua County Health Department is urging residents to prepare for dangerously hot weather after the National Weather Service issued an Extreme Heat Advisory for much of New York State. Heat index values, or "feels like" temperatures, are forecast to exceed 100 degrees across Western ...