Groundbreaking ceremonies were held in the Falls Thursday
marking the start of construction on the West Pedestrian Mall.
The $7.9-million project will replace the Wintergarden and it's
adjacent walkway with a cobblestone street and a public plaza.
The work has already started and most of the trees and hexagon
bricks that lined the walkway are gone. Work on tearing down the
Wintergarden is expected to begin late this year or in early
2009. Falls Mayor Paul Dyster predicted the City was going to
be in for a period of growth in the downtown area that most
have never seen before.
Friday, November 7, 2008
NIAGARA FALLS SCHOOL BOARD
The Niagara Falls School Board met behind closed doors
last night to discuss their response to the 33 reccomendations
contained in the audit done by the State Comptroller. They must
submit a response by January 5. They'll meet again next
Thursday to begin to put together and fine tune a corrective
plan.
last night to discuss their response to the 33 reccomendations
contained in the audit done by the State Comptroller. They must
submit a response by January 5. They'll meet again next
Thursday to begin to put together and fine tune a corrective
plan.
MAIN STREET PROGRAM
Bewley Building Manager Charlene Seekins Smith has
been named by Mayor Mike Tucker to chair the
committee putting together the city's entry into the
Main Street program sponsored by the National Trust For
Historic Preservation. The co-chair is M&T Bank executive
Ruth Earl and an executive at First Niagara, Jerry Dzieranowski
will serve as Secretary. The other members are Jane Lloyd
Walker, Norah Smith, Elizabeth McCulloch, Nancy DeFlippo,
Jody Chesko, Jerry Bream, and Kevin McDonough. Tucker
said he still needs to appoint one more. Their first task
will be to choose a manager to oversee the program. Twenty-nine
applications have been received and Tucker says consultants
from the Western Erie Canal Alliance....which administers
the national program locally, will help them narrow down
the list to about six...and then interviews would be held. He
wants someone chosen by December first. They still need
to raise some more money. $50,000 is needed for the first
year of operation and they also need someone to donate
office space. Lockport was one of three municipalities
chosen locally to particicpate in the non profit program which
must be seperate from City government.
been named by Mayor Mike Tucker to chair the
committee putting together the city's entry into the
Main Street program sponsored by the National Trust For
Historic Preservation. The co-chair is M&T Bank executive
Ruth Earl and an executive at First Niagara, Jerry Dzieranowski
will serve as Secretary. The other members are Jane Lloyd
Walker, Norah Smith, Elizabeth McCulloch, Nancy DeFlippo,
Jody Chesko, Jerry Bream, and Kevin McDonough. Tucker
said he still needs to appoint one more. Their first task
will be to choose a manager to oversee the program. Twenty-nine
applications have been received and Tucker says consultants
from the Western Erie Canal Alliance....which administers
the national program locally, will help them narrow down
the list to about six...and then interviews would be held. He
wants someone chosen by December first. They still need
to raise some more money. $50,000 is needed for the first
year of operation and they also need someone to donate
office space. Lockport was one of three municipalities
chosen locally to particicpate in the non profit program which
must be seperate from City government.
FUNERAL FOR HARTLAND FIRE VICTIMS
Funeral services will be held Sunday for the three boys killed
in Monday night's blaze in a farmhouse in Hartland. The services
are set from 4 till 7 pm at Prudden & Kandt Funeral Home. A
memorial service will also be held at 11am Monday. The boys'
grandmother is still in serious condition at ECMC. Leona Heigl
was babysitting when the blaze broke out. A fund has been
established to help pay the cost of burial. Donations can be
made at any location of First Niagara Bank. The boys' mother,
Sondra Heigl, works at Briarwood Manor. They've also started
collecting donations for her and plan a fundraiser in the future.
in Monday night's blaze in a farmhouse in Hartland. The services
are set from 4 till 7 pm at Prudden & Kandt Funeral Home. A
memorial service will also be held at 11am Monday. The boys'
grandmother is still in serious condition at ECMC. Leona Heigl
was babysitting when the blaze broke out. A fund has been
established to help pay the cost of burial. Donations can be
made at any location of First Niagara Bank. The boys' mother,
Sondra Heigl, works at Briarwood Manor. They've also started
collecting donations for her and plan a fundraiser in the future.
MARCY COLE SENTENCED
Former Lockport school teacher Marcy Cole was sentenced to
one to three years in prison yesterday. County Judge Sara
Sheldon Sperrezza gave the 35 year old the lightest possible
sentence but a pre-sentencing report from the Probation Department
reccommended even more leniency. Cole was arrested four times
in 14 months for DWI. She wept as she told the court jail time made
her realize the value of treatment and changed her attitude. She said
she would use outpatient programs, support groups, and other
sober support programs to maintain her sobriety. Sperrezza told
Cole she was at a high risk to re-offend. She said she saw a woman
standing before her who mouths the words..."I now get it," but
Sperrezza said "I don't think you do."
one to three years in prison yesterday. County Judge Sara
Sheldon Sperrezza gave the 35 year old the lightest possible
sentence but a pre-sentencing report from the Probation Department
reccommended even more leniency. Cole was arrested four times
in 14 months for DWI. She wept as she told the court jail time made
her realize the value of treatment and changed her attitude. She said
she would use outpatient programs, support groups, and other
sober support programs to maintain her sobriety. Sperrezza told
Cole she was at a high risk to re-offend. She said she saw a woman
standing before her who mouths the words..."I now get it," but
Sperrezza said "I don't think you do."
Thursday, November 6, 2008
INTERNATIONAL THUNDERBIRD CONVENTION
Lockport's been chosen to host the 16th annual convention
of Thunderbird owners next Summer. The gathering will be
at the Lockport Holiday Inn. About 250 to 300 T-Bird
enthusiasts will be here from August 23-30. At least a hundred
of the classic cars will be on display at the hotel . The group
is based in Nashville, Tennessee and Lockport was competing
with Mystic, Connecticut for the convention. Lockport won out
after problems developed in Mystic. Two members who live
here suggested they come to Lockport and the hotels
Sales and Marketing Director , Terri McDonald, says she
talked to officials and convinced them they would enjoy
their stay here. Several events are planned including a parade
of classic cars with police escort from the hotel to Lockport
Locks and Erie Canal Cruises where the members will take
a ride on the waterway. The convention will take every room
at the Holiday Inn with the overflow going to the Lockport Inn
& Suites. The organization has more than 1,800 members in
ten countries.
of Thunderbird owners next Summer. The gathering will be
at the Lockport Holiday Inn. About 250 to 300 T-Bird
enthusiasts will be here from August 23-30. At least a hundred
of the classic cars will be on display at the hotel . The group
is based in Nashville, Tennessee and Lockport was competing
with Mystic, Connecticut for the convention. Lockport won out
after problems developed in Mystic. Two members who live
here suggested they come to Lockport and the hotels
Sales and Marketing Director , Terri McDonald, says she
talked to officials and convinced them they would enjoy
their stay here. Several events are planned including a parade
of classic cars with police escort from the hotel to Lockport
Locks and Erie Canal Cruises where the members will take
a ride on the waterway. The convention will take every room
at the Holiday Inn with the overflow going to the Lockport Inn
& Suites. The organization has more than 1,800 members in
ten countries.
UNITED WAY OF NIAGARA
The United Way of Niagara is asking for the public's help.
They only have about half of this year's goal of $935,000
and the campaign is slated to wrap up next Friday. Vice
President Phil Buffone says more than 50,000 people used
a United Way service on the western end of the County
last year. The organizations receiving funding include the
Red Cross, the Boys & Girls Clubs, the YMCA, Family &
Childrens Services, and Opportunities Unlimited. He says
to call and they'll arrange a payment plan that fits your
needs. The number is 285-8461.
They only have about half of this year's goal of $935,000
and the campaign is slated to wrap up next Friday. Vice
President Phil Buffone says more than 50,000 people used
a United Way service on the western end of the County
last year. The organizations receiving funding include the
Red Cross, the Boys & Girls Clubs, the YMCA, Family &
Childrens Services, and Opportunities Unlimited. He says
to call and they'll arrange a payment plan that fits your
needs. The number is 285-8461.
LOCKPORT COMMON COUNCIL
It was kudos and criticism last night for Lockport lawmakers
from Corwin Drive resident Karen Carol. She commended the
council for their efforts to improve the city's housing stock
but criticized them over the city's new sign law. It's been getting
a lot of negative attention after "Curves for Women" was prohibited
from putting up their existing sign when they relocated downtown.
Carol said the sign right across the Street on the Mini Mart was a mess
and yet it was still allowed up. Mayor Mike Tucker said it's
"grandfathered " in under the law and they have ten years before
the new rules apply. The Council also o-k'd a nearly $157,000 bid for
a new communications console for the Police Department. It'll
come from Freedom Communications of Jamestown and match the
one used by the Sheriff's Department. It means the two depertments
dispatchers will be able to use each others equipment in the event of
a breakdown. The unit will be paid for with Homeland Security money.
In other action, lawmakers approved a bid that was 8 times lower than
the highest to complete strucural steel repairs on two mixing tanks
at the Water Filtration Plant. Alderman Pat Schrader said Contracts
Unlimited will do the job for just over $3,300. The repairs will be made
ASAP. They also agreed to split the costs of upgrading the local
website, E-Lockport.com" with the Town of Lockport. The City will
spend no more than $2,500 on the project with the work to be done
by Web Essentials. The Council affirmed the Mayor's appointment of
attorney Allen Miskell to the Board of Assessment Review.
from Corwin Drive resident Karen Carol. She commended the
council for their efforts to improve the city's housing stock
but criticized them over the city's new sign law. It's been getting
a lot of negative attention after "Curves for Women" was prohibited
from putting up their existing sign when they relocated downtown.
Carol said the sign right across the Street on the Mini Mart was a mess
and yet it was still allowed up. Mayor Mike Tucker said it's
"grandfathered " in under the law and they have ten years before
the new rules apply. The Council also o-k'd a nearly $157,000 bid for
a new communications console for the Police Department. It'll
come from Freedom Communications of Jamestown and match the
one used by the Sheriff's Department. It means the two depertments
dispatchers will be able to use each others equipment in the event of
a breakdown. The unit will be paid for with Homeland Security money.
In other action, lawmakers approved a bid that was 8 times lower than
the highest to complete strucural steel repairs on two mixing tanks
at the Water Filtration Plant. Alderman Pat Schrader said Contracts
Unlimited will do the job for just over $3,300. The repairs will be made
ASAP. They also agreed to split the costs of upgrading the local
website, E-Lockport.com" with the Town of Lockport. The City will
spend no more than $2,500 on the project with the work to be done
by Web Essentials. The Council affirmed the Mayor's appointment of
attorney Allen Miskell to the Board of Assessment Review.
TOWN OF LOCKPORT BUDGET
Lawmakers in the Town of Lockport last night O-K'd
a $13.9-million spending plan for 2009. No one spoke
at the public hearing and Supervisor Marc Smith said
things are looking good despite the national economy.
He said spending is down slightly...about $20,000...
but said it was noteworthy when the cost of gas,
asphalt, and salt had gone through the roof. The
budget cuts the total taxes and fees paid by the owner
of a $100,000 home by $24.91.....but there are exceptions.
Taxes will rise for the third consecutive year for residents
in the Lincoln Wood and Carlisle Gardens subdivisions
as the Town equalizes rates among it's three sewer
districts and builds a fund for infrastructure repair. The
average increase in Lincoln Woods will be about $36
and it'll be alomist $60 for those in Carlisle Gardens. The
budget includes a 3.5 % pay raise for elected officials.
Meantime, Board Member Paul Sejak said the Town has
completed it's inspection of it's water lines. He said
about 30 leaks were suggested. The department
will work on them, weather permitting, and hopes
to finish some of the repairs before the end of the year.
a $13.9-million spending plan for 2009. No one spoke
at the public hearing and Supervisor Marc Smith said
things are looking good despite the national economy.
He said spending is down slightly...about $20,000...
but said it was noteworthy when the cost of gas,
asphalt, and salt had gone through the roof. The
budget cuts the total taxes and fees paid by the owner
of a $100,000 home by $24.91.....but there are exceptions.
Taxes will rise for the third consecutive year for residents
in the Lincoln Wood and Carlisle Gardens subdivisions
as the Town equalizes rates among it's three sewer
districts and builds a fund for infrastructure repair. The
average increase in Lincoln Woods will be about $36
and it'll be alomist $60 for those in Carlisle Gardens. The
budget includes a 3.5 % pay raise for elected officials.
Meantime, Board Member Paul Sejak said the Town has
completed it's inspection of it's water lines. He said
about 30 leaks were suggested. The department
will work on them, weather permitting, and hopes
to finish some of the repairs before the end of the year.
COUNTY LEGISLATURE
County lawmakers last night O-K'd a resolution taking the
An-Jo baseball fields off a list of properties the county is
trying to sell. The measure was sponsored by lawmaker
Tony Nemi. The Legislature also voted to issue $3.46-million
in bonds to repair two bridges, pave a road, make repairs
at the Jail, buy two dump trucks, and some new computer
software. The County Water District was given the O-K to
borrow $20.6-million and spend $3.1-million of it's own money
to replace eight miles of the water main along Lockport Road
on Wheatfield, Cambria, and Lockport. The project also
includes two new water storage tanks at the filtration plant
on Williams Road in Wheatfield.
An-Jo baseball fields off a list of properties the county is
trying to sell. The measure was sponsored by lawmaker
Tony Nemi. The Legislature also voted to issue $3.46-million
in bonds to repair two bridges, pave a road, make repairs
at the Jail, buy two dump trucks, and some new computer
software. The County Water District was given the O-K to
borrow $20.6-million and spend $3.1-million of it's own money
to replace eight miles of the water main along Lockport Road
on Wheatfield, Cambria, and Lockport. The project also
includes two new water storage tanks at the filtration plant
on Williams Road in Wheatfield.
DYSTER PICKS NEW CORPORATION COUNSEL
Falls Mayor Paul Dyster wants former Town of Tonawnada
attorney Craig Johnson to be the City's next Corporation
Counsel. There's a resolution on next Wednesday's Council
agenda to hire him. Dyster proposing a salary of $93,000 a
year...which is $25,000 more than what's in the City budget.
He says he'll cover the difference by using $7,000 in a
contingency fund and $18,000 from the "Building A Better
Niagara Falls" fund. He said Johnson could start December 1.
Deputy Corporation Counsel Tom O'Donnell has been handling
the duties since January. Johnson graduated from Kent State
in Ohio and U-B and has 30 years legal experience.
attorney Craig Johnson to be the City's next Corporation
Counsel. There's a resolution on next Wednesday's Council
agenda to hire him. Dyster proposing a salary of $93,000 a
year...which is $25,000 more than what's in the City budget.
He says he'll cover the difference by using $7,000 in a
contingency fund and $18,000 from the "Building A Better
Niagara Falls" fund. He said Johnson could start December 1.
Deputy Corporation Counsel Tom O'Donnell has been handling
the duties since January. Johnson graduated from Kent State
in Ohio and U-B and has 30 years legal experience.
CAR BREAK-IN'S
Police caught one of two males last night that were
allegedly going through vehicles parked at Lockport
Memorial Hospital. Seventeen year old Christopher
Tatroe of 305 Chestnut was apprehended just after 8:30
at 521 East Avenue. Police say he, another suspect,
were seen walking in and out between cars in the North
lot. Tatroe allegedly told them he and his partner had been going
through vehicles the past two nights. He said the other
male took a phone, satellite radio, and a pack of smokes
from a red Pontiac the night before. The other male
ran along the East side of the hospital and escaped
over a fence. Tatroe told police they didn't take anything
last night because the officers were there. Meantime
the Sheriff's Department says a $200 Pioneer Am-FM-CD
unit was stolen Monday from a vehicle parked in the lot
at Desales Catholic School. The 38 year old victim works
there and lives in Ransomville. He said he left the doors
unlocked and it was taken between 1:30 and 10pm.
allegedly going through vehicles parked at Lockport
Memorial Hospital. Seventeen year old Christopher
Tatroe of 305 Chestnut was apprehended just after 8:30
at 521 East Avenue. Police say he, another suspect,
were seen walking in and out between cars in the North
lot. Tatroe allegedly told them he and his partner had been going
through vehicles the past two nights. He said the other
male took a phone, satellite radio, and a pack of smokes
from a red Pontiac the night before. The other male
ran along the East side of the hospital and escaped
over a fence. Tatroe told police they didn't take anything
last night because the officers were there. Meantime
the Sheriff's Department says a $200 Pioneer Am-FM-CD
unit was stolen Monday from a vehicle parked in the lot
at Desales Catholic School. The 38 year old victim works
there and lives in Ransomville. He said he left the doors
unlocked and it was taken between 1:30 and 10pm.
VOUTOUR
New Sheriff Jim Voutour says he'll be putting together a
transistion team as he prepares to take over the department
January first. He says his main goal is to improve efficiency.
The 42 year old received congratulations yesterday from police
chiefs around the County and from the Law Enforcement Executive
Institute in Albany. Voutour took a course there last year on how
to be the Chief Executive Officer of a Police Department.
transistion team as he prepares to take over the department
January first. He says his main goal is to improve efficiency.
The 42 year old received congratulations yesterday from police
chiefs around the County and from the Law Enforcement Executive
Institute in Albany. Voutour took a course there last year on how
to be the Chief Executive Officer of a Police Department.
NEW LIFE FOR WHEATFIELD BARN
A nearly 150 year old red wooden barn on Shawnee Road
in Wheatfield will have a new home at the Buffalo Zoo. The
structure was to be torn down to make way for yet another
Wheatfield subdivision but the owner decided to donate it
to be used as part of a "Heritage Farm Children's Zoo." The
$1.75-million project will feature a mix of farm animals...
cattle, sheep, pigs, rabbits, and chickens....commonly found
on farms along the Erie Canal during it's hayday. The 35 by 45
foot dairy barn, complete with it's antique weathervane, will
be dismantled piece by piece in the coming weeks and
stored over the Winter. It'll be put back together at the Zoo
next Spring.
in Wheatfield will have a new home at the Buffalo Zoo. The
structure was to be torn down to make way for yet another
Wheatfield subdivision but the owner decided to donate it
to be used as part of a "Heritage Farm Children's Zoo." The
$1.75-million project will feature a mix of farm animals...
cattle, sheep, pigs, rabbits, and chickens....commonly found
on farms along the Erie Canal during it's hayday. The 35 by 45
foot dairy barn, complete with it's antique weathervane, will
be dismantled piece by piece in the coming weeks and
stored over the Winter. It'll be put back together at the Zoo
next Spring.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
NORTH TONAWANDA
Two of the five proposed changes to the City Charter
of North Tonawanda were approved yesterday. Voters
said yes to propositions to combine the jobs of the City
Clerk and City Treasurer...and to another that prohbits
the City Attorney from taking part in litigation between
elected officials. They rejected others that would
allow the Mayor to appoint the City Attorney and Accountant...
and to a plan to make the City Attorney an appointed
position...and defeated a measure to make citizens who
challenge the charter eliginble for reimbursed attorney fees.
of North Tonawanda were approved yesterday. Voters
said yes to propositions to combine the jobs of the City
Clerk and City Treasurer...and to another that prohbits
the City Attorney from taking part in litigation between
elected officials. They rejected others that would
allow the Mayor to appoint the City Attorney and Accountant...
and to a plan to make the City Attorney an appointed
position...and defeated a measure to make citizens who
challenge the charter eliginble for reimbursed attorney fees.
JUDGES
In the 8th Judicial District racem Tracey Bannister beat
Jeff Voekl by more than 62,500 votes winning by a
margin of 56 tro 44 per cent, In Niagara County,
Bannister received 34,428 votes versus 34,149 for
Voelkl. Sitting State Supreme Court Judge John
Michalek ran unopposed for a second term. In
Porter, incumbent Republican Walter Holmes won
another term for Town Justice with 1,699 votes. His
opponent, Ernest Lavigueur received 1,245.
Jeff Voekl by more than 62,500 votes winning by a
margin of 56 tro 44 per cent, In Niagara County,
Bannister received 34,428 votes versus 34,149 for
Voelkl. Sitting State Supreme Court Judge John
Michalek ran unopposed for a second term. In
Porter, incumbent Republican Walter Holmes won
another term for Town Justice with 1,699 votes. His
opponent, Ernest Lavigueur received 1,245.
ROYALTON
Republican Daniel Bragg won a seat on the Town Board in
Royalton. He tallied 1,545 votes to 1,082 for Mary Cedano.
Voters split on extending the terms of four officials from two
to four years. They approved the extension for the Town Clerk
and the Tax Collector but left the terms of the Supervisor and
Highway Superintendent at two years.
Royalton. He tallied 1,545 votes to 1,082 for Mary Cedano.
Voters split on extending the terms of four officials from two
to four years. They approved the extension for the Town Clerk
and the Tax Collector but left the terms of the Supervisor and
Highway Superintendent at two years.
WHEATFIELD, HARTLAND, & PENDLETON
Republicans won town board seats in Wheatfield, Hartland,
and Pendleton. Art Gerbec defeated Robert Pino 3,754 to
2,877. Ross Annable defeated Joseph Derda Junior in
Hartland 943 to 483...and in Pendleton it was Ron Morrison
over Ed Harmon 1,568 to 1,182.
and Pendleton. Art Gerbec defeated Robert Pino 3,754 to
2,877. Ross Annable defeated Joseph Derda Junior in
Hartland 943 to 483...and in Pendleton it was Ron Morrison
over Ed Harmon 1,568 to 1,182.
NIAGARA FALLS
Democrat Diane Vitello easily won the race for City Judge
Tuesday in Niagara Falls. She bested Republican Charles
Pitarresi 10,189 to 4,740. She had been appointed to the
bench earlier this year to replace Robert Restaino. Cindy
Lou Joyce won the District 0ne coroners race beating
Republican Russell Jackman II 8,365 to 5,510. Joyce is
the wife of former cornorer James Joyce who resigned.
Tuesday in Niagara Falls. She bested Republican Charles
Pitarresi 10,189 to 4,740. She had been appointed to the
bench earlier this year to replace Robert Restaino. Cindy
Lou Joyce won the District 0ne coroners race beating
Republican Russell Jackman II 8,365 to 5,510. Joyce is
the wife of former cornorer James Joyce who resigned.
SLAUGHTER
Louise Slaughter won another term in Congress by an
almost 3-1 margin over David Crimmen. Slaughter received
almost 153,000 votes to about 43,500 for Crimmen. The
Democrat released a statement promising to fight for the
priorities that matter to Western New Yorkers and said she would
strive eacj day to secure a brighter, safer, and more prosperous
future for all of us.
almost 3-1 margin over David Crimmen. Slaughter received
almost 153,000 votes to about 43,500 for Crimmen. The
Democrat released a statement promising to fight for the
priorities that matter to Western New Yorkers and said she would
strive eacj day to secure a brighter, safer, and more prosperous
future for all of us.
CONGRESSIONAL RACE
Republican Chris Lee will be packing his bags for Washington
after beating Alice Kryzanby more than 36,000 votes. Lee will
fill the 26th district Congressional seat being vacated by Tom
Reynolds. He says he will work on job creation and the
development of green energy, which he believes will have
immediate positive results. Jon Powers did appear on the
Working Families line where he got 4 per cent of the vote.
after beating Alice Kryzanby more than 36,000 votes. Lee will
fill the 26th district Congressional seat being vacated by Tom
Reynolds. He says he will work on job creation and the
development of green energy, which he believes will have
immediate positive results. Jon Powers did appear on the
Working Families line where he got 4 per cent of the vote.
COUNTY PRESIDENTIAL RESULTS
Barak Obama and Joe Biden won yesterday's presidential
vote in Niagara County. The Democrats received 44,105 votes
to 43,748 for John McCain and Sarah Palin. Nine-hundred-28
people voted for Ralph Nader and 300 for Bob Barr.
vote in Niagara County. The Democrats received 44,105 votes
to 43,748 for John McCain and Sarah Palin. Nine-hundred-28
people voted for Ralph Nader and 300 for Bob Barr.
STATE SENATE/MAZIARZ
Democrats took control of the State Senate yesterday but
local representative George Maziarz easily defeated Brian
Grear to win a 7th term. The Republican received 73,538
votes while Grear tallied 34,279. Maziarz said he was humbled
by the size of the victory. He said his dad told him you work
hard in the years you're not running for election and the
years you are will take care of themselves. He received about
90% of the vote in Orleans County and about 85% in Monroe
County. In the Aseembly, Francine del Monte bested Paula
Banks Dahlke in their second match-up. Del Monte
winning with a more than 10,000 vote margin. Elsewhere,
Republican Charles Ranzenhofer knocked out former boxer
Joe Mersi by a 54 to 46 margin. With about 90% of the vote
countedm Ranzenhofer had just over 62,000 votes to
almost 54,000 for Mesi. Dennis Delano lost to Bill
Stachowksi and Dale Voelker defeated challenger Kathy
Konst, Frank Sedita won the Erie County District Attorney's
race with a 2-1 victory over Diane LaVallee.
local representative George Maziarz easily defeated Brian
Grear to win a 7th term. The Republican received 73,538
votes while Grear tallied 34,279. Maziarz said he was humbled
by the size of the victory. He said his dad told him you work
hard in the years you're not running for election and the
years you are will take care of themselves. He received about
90% of the vote in Orleans County and about 85% in Monroe
County. In the Aseembly, Francine del Monte bested Paula
Banks Dahlke in their second match-up. Del Monte
winning with a more than 10,000 vote margin. Elsewhere,
Republican Charles Ranzenhofer knocked out former boxer
Joe Mersi by a 54 to 46 margin. With about 90% of the vote
countedm Ranzenhofer had just over 62,000 votes to
almost 54,000 for Mesi. Dennis Delano lost to Bill
Stachowksi and Dale Voelker defeated challenger Kathy
Konst, Frank Sedita won the Erie County District Attorney's
race with a 2-1 victory over Diane LaVallee.
NEW SHERIFF
Jim Voutour introduced former Sheriff Tom Belein last
night at Lockport's U-A-W Hall as he claimed victory
in his race against Ernest Palmer. Voutour called Belein
his mentor. The Democrat had an unofficial total of
41,428 votes to 38,819 for Palmer. Voutour thanked
his loyal staff members and family. There are over
4700 absentee votes to be counted...more than double
the amount that gave Voutour the win but Republican
Elections Commissioner Scott Kiedrowski said a
win by Palmer would be unlikely.
night at Lockport's U-A-W Hall as he claimed victory
in his race against Ernest Palmer. Voutour called Belein
his mentor. The Democrat had an unofficial total of
41,428 votes to 38,819 for Palmer. Voutour thanked
his loyal staff members and family. There are over
4700 absentee votes to be counted...more than double
the amount that gave Voutour the win but Republican
Elections Commissioner Scott Kiedrowski said a
win by Palmer would be unlikely.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
BIG FOOTBALL GAME
The University of Buffalo is getting ready for a primetime
and election night football game of historic proportions.
The Bulls are hosting Miami University tonight and fans
will be part of the first ever nationally televised game in the
history of the stadium. The kick-off's at 7:30 and the contest
will be carried live on ESPN-2. It's the only college football
game in the country tonight and a win would put Buffalo over the
500 mark for the first time in November in its ten year history in
Division 1-A. It would also move them one win closer to the
school's first bowl bid since the 1958 team got one 50 years
ago.
and election night football game of historic proportions.
The Bulls are hosting Miami University tonight and fans
will be part of the first ever nationally televised game in the
history of the stadium. The kick-off's at 7:30 and the contest
will be carried live on ESPN-2. It's the only college football
game in the country tonight and a win would put Buffalo over the
500 mark for the first time in November in its ten year history in
Division 1-A. It would also move them one win closer to the
school's first bowl bid since the 1958 team got one 50 years
ago.
METROPOLITAN CLOSES
We're told the Metropolitan closed it's doors Monday. The
upscale eatery in the Ulrich City Center was one of the
first businesses to open in the complex. No other information
is available.
upscale eatery in the Ulrich City Center was one of the
first businesses to open in the complex. No other information
is available.
KRYZAN
Alice Kryzan won't be on the Working Families line
in today's election after all. A three judge federal
panel yesterday declined to hear Kryzan's appeal
of a lower court's ruling giving the line to Jon Powers.
The ballot line has gone back and forth between
Kryzan and Powers in recent days as different state
and federal judges ruled on the matter. Kryzan wasn't
happy when she got the news...accusing her opponent...
Chris Lee ...of using his families fortune to undermine the
democratic process. The Working Families party issued
a release urging it's members to vote for Kryzan on the
Democratic line.
in today's election after all. A three judge federal
panel yesterday declined to hear Kryzan's appeal
of a lower court's ruling giving the line to Jon Powers.
The ballot line has gone back and forth between
Kryzan and Powers in recent days as different state
and federal judges ruled on the matter. Kryzan wasn't
happy when she got the news...accusing her opponent...
Chris Lee ...of using his families fortune to undermine the
democratic process. The Working Families party issued
a release urging it's members to vote for Kryzan on the
Democratic line.
WILSON
A yellow gold one carat diamond ring with a one carat
diamond band was reported stolen Monday from an
apartment on Autumnview Drive in Wilson. The 80 year
old victim says it was removed from a dresser drawer
sometime between last Friday and Sunday. The manager
of the complex told Sheriff's deputies the key to the
woman's apartment was missing from the key box.
The ring is worth $1,500.
diamond band was reported stolen Monday from an
apartment on Autumnview Drive in Wilson. The 80 year
old victim says it was removed from a dresser drawer
sometime between last Friday and Sunday. The manager
of the complex told Sheriff's deputies the key to the
woman's apartment was missing from the key box.
The ring is worth $1,500.
HIT & RUN
A 26 year old Lewiston man pleading not guilty in Falls City
Court yesterday on charges he struck two pedestrians in
a hit and run crash October 26 and then ditched the car on
the Tuscorora Indian Reservation after setting it on fire.
Michael Walaszek of Upper Mountain Road is being held
in the County Jail on $250,000 cash bail or a $500,000 bond.
Police are also questioning a passenger who was with him
at the time and may be charged for not coming forward to
report it. Judge Angelo Morinello set a preliminary hearing
for Friday. Police alledge Walaszek was driving his dad's
red compact Ford when he struck and killed 38 year old
Mark Milczarski and injured 40 year old Eduardo Ortiz at
Walnut & 19th. Ortiz was discharged last week from ECMC
after he suffered a broken pelvis and a shoulder injury.
Court yesterday on charges he struck two pedestrians in
a hit and run crash October 26 and then ditched the car on
the Tuscorora Indian Reservation after setting it on fire.
Michael Walaszek of Upper Mountain Road is being held
in the County Jail on $250,000 cash bail or a $500,000 bond.
Police are also questioning a passenger who was with him
at the time and may be charged for not coming forward to
report it. Judge Angelo Morinello set a preliminary hearing
for Friday. Police alledge Walaszek was driving his dad's
red compact Ford when he struck and killed 38 year old
Mark Milczarski and injured 40 year old Eduardo Ortiz at
Walnut & 19th. Ortiz was discharged last week from ECMC
after he suffered a broken pelvis and a shoulder injury.
A CHANGE IN PLANS
The majority caucus of the County Legislature dropping plans
to build a new Public Works Building and a Sheriff's Office
Evidence and Vehicle Storage Building. The two proposals
were included in a $6.7-million bond package that's been delayed
and debated at several recent meetings. The resolution...to be
voted on tomorrow night....now calls for bonding only $2.5-million
for six of the ten projects originally in the proposal. The County
spent $180,000 to buy the land for the Public Works facility but
lawmakers shelved the project after finding out the price had
skyrocketed from $15-million to over $40-million.
to build a new Public Works Building and a Sheriff's Office
Evidence and Vehicle Storage Building. The two proposals
were included in a $6.7-million bond package that's been delayed
and debated at several recent meetings. The resolution...to be
voted on tomorrow night....now calls for bonding only $2.5-million
for six of the ten projects originally in the proposal. The County
spent $180,000 to buy the land for the Public Works facility but
lawmakers shelved the project after finding out the price had
skyrocketed from $15-million to over $40-million.
FATAL FIRE CLAIMS THREE YOUNG LIVES
Three boys....ages 8,6 & 5....were killed last night in a blaze in a
two story home at 3100 Bishop Road in Hartland. Their 59 year
old grandmother, Leona Heigl, was taken to I-C-M-H and later
transferred to ECMC. She told deputies she was babysitting and
was in a seperate room when she suddenly smelled smoke and
heard a fire. She tried to get to the living room area at the west end
of the home but was overwhelmed with smoke. She found one of
the three children but could not help him to safety. She said the
fire could possibly have started from a candle in the living room.
WLVL's Steve Wallace was on the scene. He said the fire started
around 11:15 and deputies found it completely engulfed in flames
when they arrived. They tried to rescue the boys but were
prevented from getting in by the heat, flames, and thick black smoke.
A wristwatch worn by one of the deputies melted from the heat .The fire
was fought by Miller Hose, Olcott, and Wrights Corners. The
structure was a total loss. The second floor collapsed onto the
first. The mother of the three children, Sandra Heigl, was contacted
at work and notified of the tragedy while she was at ICMH. The
children's fathers are Winston Jenkins and Donathon Alston. The
cause is officially under investigation.
two story home at 3100 Bishop Road in Hartland. Their 59 year
old grandmother, Leona Heigl, was taken to I-C-M-H and later
transferred to ECMC. She told deputies she was babysitting and
was in a seperate room when she suddenly smelled smoke and
heard a fire. She tried to get to the living room area at the west end
of the home but was overwhelmed with smoke. She found one of
the three children but could not help him to safety. She said the
fire could possibly have started from a candle in the living room.
WLVL's Steve Wallace was on the scene. He said the fire started
around 11:15 and deputies found it completely engulfed in flames
when they arrived. They tried to rescue the boys but were
prevented from getting in by the heat, flames, and thick black smoke.
A wristwatch worn by one of the deputies melted from the heat .The fire
was fought by Miller Hose, Olcott, and Wrights Corners. The
structure was a total loss. The second floor collapsed onto the
first. The mother of the three children, Sandra Heigl, was contacted
at work and notified of the tragedy while she was at ICMH. The
children's fathers are Winston Jenkins and Donathon Alston. The
cause is officially under investigation.
Monday, November 3, 2008
D-W-I
The Sheriff's Department says 35 people were arrested for DWI
during a heightened enforcement effort in Otcober. Nine arrests
were made during the afternoon shift while the others took place
overnight. The stepped up enforcement started after September
21 when deputies responded to two alcohol related fatalities in
one day. Three of the arrests in October were felonies where
the drivers had a previous DWI conviction in the last ten years.
Seven were charged with aggravated DWI meaning they had a
blood alcohol level of .18 or higher.
during a heightened enforcement effort in Otcober. Nine arrests
were made during the afternoon shift while the others took place
overnight. The stepped up enforcement started after September
21 when deputies responded to two alcohol related fatalities in
one day. Three of the arrests in October were felonies where
the drivers had a previous DWI conviction in the last ten years.
Seven were charged with aggravated DWI meaning they had a
blood alcohol level of .18 or higher.
S-G-L CARBON
Ashland Advanced Materials of Ohio plans to tell residents
more tonight about their plan to reopen a portion of the
closed S-G-L Carbon Plant in the Falls. A public meeting
starts at 6 in the auditorium of the Library. The company
plans a five year, $19.29-million project to upgrade the facility.
They say they will produce heat treated rayon bundles,
heat treated carbon powder, and carbon fiberboard. The
project does not need an o-k from the City Planning Board
because it involves re-opening a facility. It does need a D-E-C
air permit.
more tonight about their plan to reopen a portion of the
closed S-G-L Carbon Plant in the Falls. A public meeting
starts at 6 in the auditorium of the Library. The company
plans a five year, $19.29-million project to upgrade the facility.
They say they will produce heat treated rayon bundles,
heat treated carbon powder, and carbon fiberboard. The
project does not need an o-k from the City Planning Board
because it involves re-opening a facility. It does need a D-E-C
air permit.
FALLS MURDER
Falls Police say the man who allegedly shot his estranged wife
to death Saturday afternoon took his own life today. Thirty-six
year old Charles Holliday was found dead this morning in a room
at the Boulevard Inn & Suites on Main near Bailey in Buffalo.
Detective Captain Ernest Palmer said Holliday died of an
apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound....that his body was found
by a cleaning crew in a room that had been barricaded. Holliday
is alleged to have shot his estranged wife to death
Saturday afternoon at her home at 8720 Pershing Avenue.
Amy Holliday was shot three times in the living room of her
LaSalle home about 3:30 pm Saturday as her mother and sister
looked on. She was a nursing student and was home studying for
an exam when the shooting took place. She was shot once in the
head and twice in the torso and was pronounced dead later at
the Medical Center. In September, Holliday discharged his weapon and
barrcicaded himself in his home for two hours before surrendering to police
after threatening to take his own life.
to death Saturday afternoon took his own life today. Thirty-six
year old Charles Holliday was found dead this morning in a room
at the Boulevard Inn & Suites on Main near Bailey in Buffalo.
Detective Captain Ernest Palmer said Holliday died of an
apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound....that his body was found
by a cleaning crew in a room that had been barricaded. Holliday
is alleged to have shot his estranged wife to death
Saturday afternoon at her home at 8720 Pershing Avenue.
Amy Holliday was shot three times in the living room of her
LaSalle home about 3:30 pm Saturday as her mother and sister
looked on. She was a nursing student and was home studying for
an exam when the shooting took place. She was shot once in the
head and twice in the torso and was pronounced dead later at
the Medical Center. In September, Holliday discharged his weapon and
barrcicaded himself in his home for two hours before surrendering to police
after threatening to take his own life.
CAR BURGLARIES/HOME BREAK-IN'S
Lockport Police arrested two people last night that have
allegedly confessed to a number of car burglaries and
residential break-in's in the City and in Gasport. They are
17 year old Dennis Schultz of 816 East High Street and
18 year old Benjamin Stump of 193 Washburn. Detective
Captain Rick Podgers says a special detail was set up and
last night they found a Chevy Tracker stolen from Hyde Park
in Lockport in a lot on South Street. They watched it and
the two men returned to it around 9:30 and sped off. They
pulled into Kibler Park and fled into the fields after police
activated their overhead lights. The Sheriffs Department
helped set up a perimeter around the park and called in the
K-9 unit. They fled again but Schultz was captured by
Podgers and two Sheriff's deputies in front of Emmet
Belknap School. Stump surrendered in the fields behind
a house on High Street. Podgers said they're being
interviewed by State Police and Sheriff's investigators.
He said one of them confessed to stealing cars in the Gasport
area and told him where he had put them. They are expected to
be arriagned in City Court this morning after all the paperwork
is finished.
allegedly confessed to a number of car burglaries and
residential break-in's in the City and in Gasport. They are
17 year old Dennis Schultz of 816 East High Street and
18 year old Benjamin Stump of 193 Washburn. Detective
Captain Rick Podgers says a special detail was set up and
last night they found a Chevy Tracker stolen from Hyde Park
in Lockport in a lot on South Street. They watched it and
the two men returned to it around 9:30 and sped off. They
pulled into Kibler Park and fled into the fields after police
activated their overhead lights. The Sheriffs Department
helped set up a perimeter around the park and called in the
K-9 unit. They fled again but Schultz was captured by
Podgers and two Sheriff's deputies in front of Emmet
Belknap School. Stump surrendered in the fields behind
a house on High Street. Podgers said they're being
interviewed by State Police and Sheriff's investigators.
He said one of them confessed to stealing cars in the Gasport
area and told him where he had put them. They are expected to
be arriagned in City Court this morning after all the paperwork
is finished.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
