Congressman Chris Lee in Lockport today to
talk about his efforts to stop a $2.5-million
Congressional pay raise. He told WLVL News
he co-sponsored a bill on his first day on the job
to put a halt to the automatic pay increase this
year. Lee noted he didn't take a pay raise during
the lean years while he was working in the private
sector and said it's important for Congress to set
an example and do the same thing during the current
economic downturn. Lee was the guest of honor
at a brekafast sponsored yesterday by County GOP Chairman
Henry Wojtaszek at Suzanne's Fine Dining in Wheatfield.
County Economic Development officials were there
pushing a variety of projects they'd like to see included
in the federal economic stimulus package. Lee said
he was very interested in any type of infrastructure
program that put people back to work and have a
economic payback. Like all Republcians, Lee voted
against the pork ridden House version of the bill but
he's hoping a better compromise will pass the Senate.
Friday, February 6, 2009
OFF TO IRAQ
Eleven members of the 107th Airlift Wing will be helping
to handle security at Baghdad's International Airport.
The first of two groups of security forces left yesterday
for a six month deployment. The remainder are slated to
leave later this month.
to handle security at Baghdad's International Airport.
The first of two groups of security forces left yesterday
for a six month deployment. The remainder are slated to
leave later this month.
PARTNERSHIP
Niagara Falls School Superintendent Cynthia Bianco
said last night the city and school district are looking
at ways to work together to make the city a nicer place
for citizens and their children. She told the School
Board she had just come from a meeting with the Mayor
and other officials...and that they talked about projects
they could do together such as rebuilding or renovating
the Hyde Park Ice Pavillion. Dyster also told her
lawmakers would be voting Monday to have the City
take over the electric bills at Sal Maglie Stadium during
June, July, and August. The School District has been
responsible for them in the past. They also talked about
the city providing help during the district's six week
Summer program for kids. Biano called the discussion
the first step in what may be a mile long journey.
said last night the city and school district are looking
at ways to work together to make the city a nicer place
for citizens and their children. She told the School
Board she had just come from a meeting with the Mayor
and other officials...and that they talked about projects
they could do together such as rebuilding or renovating
the Hyde Park Ice Pavillion. Dyster also told her
lawmakers would be voting Monday to have the City
take over the electric bills at Sal Maglie Stadium during
June, July, and August. The School District has been
responsible for them in the past. They also talked about
the city providing help during the district's six week
Summer program for kids. Biano called the discussion
the first step in what may be a mile long journey.
LAWSUIT AGAINST BRIDGE COMMISSION
State Senator George Maziarz says Sabres owner Tom
Golisano will foot the bill for a lawsuit against the
Niagara Falls Bridge Commission. A press release
says the Senator and the businessman are teaming
up in an effort to bring public accountability and
transparency to the Commission. State Senator
Antoinne Thompson, county lawmakers, and
members of the Falls City Council are expected
to be on hand for the formal announcement of the
action at 2:30 Friday at Niagara Falls City Hall.
Golisano will foot the bill for a lawsuit against the
Niagara Falls Bridge Commission. A press release
says the Senator and the businessman are teaming
up in an effort to bring public accountability and
transparency to the Commission. State Senator
Antoinne Thompson, county lawmakers, and
members of the Falls City Council are expected
to be on hand for the formal announcement of the
action at 2:30 Friday at Niagara Falls City Hall.
PARK AVENUE GARAGE FIRE
Lockport firefighters kept busy Friday morning fighting
a blaze in a large detached garage at 441 Park Avenue.
The fire was reported at 6:10. Assistant Chief Pat Costello
said the roof on the 30 by 30 foot structure collapsed
and they needed to move it so they could get to the stuff
underneath that continued to smolder as late as10am.
There were no vehicles inside but Costello said the
building was full of wood, furniture, tires and other
material. He'll be investigating the cause but said
arson is not suspected. No estimate of damage was
provided.
a blaze in a large detached garage at 441 Park Avenue.
The fire was reported at 6:10. Assistant Chief Pat Costello
said the roof on the 30 by 30 foot structure collapsed
and they needed to move it so they could get to the stuff
underneath that continued to smolder as late as10am.
There were no vehicles inside but Costello said the
building was full of wood, furniture, tires and other
material. He'll be investigating the cause but said
arson is not suspected. No estimate of damage was
provided.
EJECTED FROM SUNROOF
A 28 year old Lockport man was ejected from the sunroof
of his SUV yesterday morning when he hit a patch of ice
and lost control as he was attempting to pass another
car on the Millersport Highway. Daniel Stegeman of Market Street
is in fair condition at ECMC. The accident happened around 7:15
about three quarters of a mile South of Transit. Amherst police
charged him with not wearing his seatbelt. Stegeman was ejected
after his vehicle hit a ditch. The SUV ended up lying on the
drivers side in the ditch, Stegeman landed about six feet from it.
of his SUV yesterday morning when he hit a patch of ice
and lost control as he was attempting to pass another
car on the Millersport Highway. Daniel Stegeman of Market Street
is in fair condition at ECMC. The accident happened around 7:15
about three quarters of a mile South of Transit. Amherst police
charged him with not wearing his seatbelt. Stegeman was ejected
after his vehicle hit a ditch. The SUV ended up lying on the
drivers side in the ditch, Stegeman landed about six feet from it.
KLING
A 35 year old Gasport man was arrested at his home just
after 9:30 last night after he allegedly threatened to shoot
his ex-girlfriend. Steven Kling of 8396 Chestnut Ridge
is charged with menacing and aggravated harrassment.
The victim said he called her about six times yesterday,
and in on of those calls, he said he would shoot her
when she got home. She had previously told him not
to contact her in any fashion. Police said he was held
for the presiding judge.
after 9:30 last night after he allegedly threatened to shoot
his ex-girlfriend. Steven Kling of 8396 Chestnut Ridge
is charged with menacing and aggravated harrassment.
The victim said he called her about six times yesterday,
and in on of those calls, he said he would shoot her
when she got home. She had previously told him not
to contact her in any fashion. Police said he was held
for the presiding judge.
RITE AID
A 60 year old Lockport woman was arrested around 1:45
Thursday afternoon after she allegedly tried to leave the
Washburn Street Rite Aid with several items stuffed into
her purse. Geraldine Papaj of 4633 Day Road was charged
with petit larceny. A clerk said the stores electronic alert
system went off when the woman tried to leave. She said
Papaj then went back and put all the items back on the
shelves...but she was arrested anyway.
Thursday afternoon after she allegedly tried to leave the
Washburn Street Rite Aid with several items stuffed into
her purse. Geraldine Papaj of 4633 Day Road was charged
with petit larceny. A clerk said the stores electronic alert
system went off when the woman tried to leave. She said
Papaj then went back and put all the items back on the
shelves...but she was arrested anyway.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
BURGLARY SPREE SENTENCING
A 28 year old Town of Niagara man will spend 20 years in
jail for a string of burglaries on the Western side of the
County. Jarvis Elder of Joanne Circle accepted a deal.
He plead guilty to two counts of second degree burglary...
but police say he committed 9 break-in's from September
2007 thru last February in the Falls, North Tonawanda,
Wheatfield, and the town of Niagara. Judge Sara Sheldon
Sperrezza dismissed Elder's claim that two co-defendants
planned the break-in's. She said she met them and they
didn't have the brains to do it. One of the co-defendants
was granted youthful offender status, the other plead
guilty to a misdemeanor. Each took part in one
burglary with Elder.
jail for a string of burglaries on the Western side of the
County. Jarvis Elder of Joanne Circle accepted a deal.
He plead guilty to two counts of second degree burglary...
but police say he committed 9 break-in's from September
2007 thru last February in the Falls, North Tonawanda,
Wheatfield, and the town of Niagara. Judge Sara Sheldon
Sperrezza dismissed Elder's claim that two co-defendants
planned the break-in's. She said she met them and they
didn't have the brains to do it. One of the co-defendants
was granted youthful offender status, the other plead
guilty to a misdemeanor. Each took part in one
burglary with Elder.
COUNTRY CAFE
The Sheriff's Department is investigating a break in at
the Country Cafe at 2853 Niagara Falls Boulevard in
Wheatfield. About $300 was taken from a utility drawer.
The owner says it could have happened anytime from
3pm Sunday thru 3pm yesterday. He gave deputies the
name of a possible suspect who had stolen money while
working there in the past. He said the man had sent him
text messages 4 to 5 days ago and felt he might be
looking to borrow money. Entry was apparently made
by kicking in a back door.
the Country Cafe at 2853 Niagara Falls Boulevard in
Wheatfield. About $300 was taken from a utility drawer.
The owner says it could have happened anytime from
3pm Sunday thru 3pm yesterday. He gave deputies the
name of a possible suspect who had stolen money while
working there in the past. He said the man had sent him
text messages 4 to 5 days ago and felt he might be
looking to borrow money. Entry was apparently made
by kicking in a back door.
NEW BUSSES
The State Department of Transportation announcing
the Dale Association will be getting $82,000 to buy
two new busses. Opportunities Unlimited was awarded
$131,000 to buy three. The grants were among $819,000
going to 11 different agencies in Western New York. The
Dale Association and Opportunities Unlimited will have
to pay for 20% of the cost of the vehicles. The busses
will be ordered in the Spring and are expected to be
delivered before the end of the year.
the Dale Association will be getting $82,000 to buy
two new busses. Opportunities Unlimited was awarded
$131,000 to buy three. The grants were among $819,000
going to 11 different agencies in Western New York. The
Dale Association and Opportunities Unlimited will have
to pay for 20% of the cost of the vehicles. The busses
will be ordered in the Spring and are expected to be
delivered before the end of the year.
PORTAGE ROAD RENT A CENTER
Falls Police say a 50 inch TV was hauled out the front window
of the Portage Plaza Rent-a-Center in an early morning break-in
Wednesday. Officers discovered the front window smashed out
near the entrance door just after 4am. They believe a stolen
'93 Chevy Blazer was used in the burglary. It was found two
blocks away on Ashland Avenue with the seat down as if it
had been used to transport something large. The vehicle had
been reported stolen by a Walnut Avenue resident just before
9pm Tuesday. Rent A Center officials said the TV was worth
over $2,000. Damage to the front window was pegged at
$1200.
of the Portage Plaza Rent-a-Center in an early morning break-in
Wednesday. Officers discovered the front window smashed out
near the entrance door just after 4am. They believe a stolen
'93 Chevy Blazer was used in the burglary. It was found two
blocks away on Ashland Avenue with the seat down as if it
had been used to transport something large. The vehicle had
been reported stolen by a Walnut Avenue resident just before
9pm Tuesday. Rent A Center officials said the TV was worth
over $2,000. Damage to the front window was pegged at
$1200.
UNLAWFULLY DEALING WITH A CHILD
Lockport Police arrested clerks at four stores Wednesday accused
of selling alcohol to two undercover minors on Super Bowl Sunday.
Thirty-three year old Isa Wael of Apple Court in the Falls allegedly
sold a 22 ounce bottle of Budweiser to one of the teens at the
Hawley Street Convenient One Stop. Twenty year old Brandy Troy
is accused of selling a 12 pack of Coors Light while working at the
Rite Aid at the corner of South Transit and Summit. Forty-one year
old Joanne Remacle allegedly sold a six pack of Coors at the Kenyons
on Lincoln Avenue. Forty-five year old Phillip Tasslemeyer was
charged with two counts. Police say he let his 14 year old son
ring up a purchase of alcohol at Franks Deli on West Avenue. The
four were arrested yesterday morning and at least two of them
appeared in City Court later in the day. They were released on their
own recognizance and are due back in court February 18.
of selling alcohol to two undercover minors on Super Bowl Sunday.
Thirty-three year old Isa Wael of Apple Court in the Falls allegedly
sold a 22 ounce bottle of Budweiser to one of the teens at the
Hawley Street Convenient One Stop. Twenty year old Brandy Troy
is accused of selling a 12 pack of Coors Light while working at the
Rite Aid at the corner of South Transit and Summit. Forty-one year
old Joanne Remacle allegedly sold a six pack of Coors at the Kenyons
on Lincoln Avenue. Forty-five year old Phillip Tasslemeyer was
charged with two counts. Police say he let his 14 year old son
ring up a purchase of alcohol at Franks Deli on West Avenue. The
four were arrested yesterday morning and at least two of them
appeared in City Court later in the day. They were released on their
own recognizance and are due back in court February 18.
TOGETHER
Former Lockport Mayor Raymond Betsch renewed his
call last night for a merger of the City and Town of Lockport.
The 85 year old spoke to lawmakers at their respective
meetings. He said if the two were merged it's size might
make the larger city eligable for increased state and federal
aid and there could be other savings. The current leaders
of both municipalities complimented him on his passion
but said it would be a lopsided deal and the City would get
most of the benefits. Mayor Mike Tucker said a seperate
referendum would have to be held in the City and Town and
he doubted residents of the Town would o-k it. Town
Supervisor Marc Smith said he saw no benefit for his
residents. Betsch served two stints as Mayor, the first
from 1972-75, the second from 1986-89. He said his big
regret is that he did not forcefully advance the proposal
long ago.
call last night for a merger of the City and Town of Lockport.
The 85 year old spoke to lawmakers at their respective
meetings. He said if the two were merged it's size might
make the larger city eligable for increased state and federal
aid and there could be other savings. The current leaders
of both municipalities complimented him on his passion
but said it would be a lopsided deal and the City would get
most of the benefits. Mayor Mike Tucker said a seperate
referendum would have to be held in the City and Town and
he doubted residents of the Town would o-k it. Town
Supervisor Marc Smith said he saw no benefit for his
residents. Betsch served two stints as Mayor, the first
from 1972-75, the second from 1986-89. He said his big
regret is that he did not forcefully advance the proposal
long ago.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
NIAGARA BILLS
County lawmakers are getting behind a plan by a
Williamsville man to move the Buffalo Bills to
Niagara County, specifically Niasgara Falls.
The Legilsature's Economic Development
Committee will be talking about it next Wednesday
after Falls lawmaker Jason Cafarella introduced
a resolution last night supporting the idea. He
says there's plenty of room for a stadium on
Buffalo Avenue in the Falls....and that it would
make it easier for people from Canada to get
involved with the team while boosting tourism
and the economy. The idea was floated last week
by Glenn Fitzgerald. He's a regional sales and
marketing manager for a Columbus, Ohio based
information services company, Cafarella says
he wnats to save the Bills for region. The
resolution was also sponsored by Renea Kimble,
Dennis Virtuoso, and Sean O'Connor. The
Bills lease at the Ralph runs through the
end of the 2012 season.
Williamsville man to move the Buffalo Bills to
Niagara County, specifically Niasgara Falls.
The Legilsature's Economic Development
Committee will be talking about it next Wednesday
after Falls lawmaker Jason Cafarella introduced
a resolution last night supporting the idea. He
says there's plenty of room for a stadium on
Buffalo Avenue in the Falls....and that it would
make it easier for people from Canada to get
involved with the team while boosting tourism
and the economy. The idea was floated last week
by Glenn Fitzgerald. He's a regional sales and
marketing manager for a Columbus, Ohio based
information services company, Cafarella says
he wnats to save the Bills for region. The
resolution was also sponsored by Renea Kimble,
Dennis Virtuoso, and Sean O'Connor. The
Bills lease at the Ralph runs through the
end of the 2012 season.
GREG LEWIS TO STAY
County Manager Greg Lewis lost his bid yesterday for
a new job in Minnesota. The St.Louis County Board of
Commissioners passed him over in favor of the Assistant
Commissioner of the State's Department of Transportation.
Lewis was one of five finalists for the position that were
interviewed January 13. His contract with Niagara County
runs through the end of November of next year.
a new job in Minnesota. The St.Louis County Board of
Commissioners passed him over in favor of the Assistant
Commissioner of the State's Department of Transportation.
Lewis was one of five finalists for the position that were
interviewed January 13. His contract with Niagara County
runs through the end of November of next year.
STATE BUDGET DEAL
State Senator George Maziarz says the agreement announced
late yesterday by the Governor to close a $1.6-billion budget
deficit is bad news for Upstate. He was quick to point out he
voted against it and said it was negotiated by the State's top
three Democrats in a closed room with no input from legislators.
The insurance industry will take one of the biggest hits. It'll
raise the cost of premiums. Maziarz predicts hundreds
of thousands of people will lose their coverage because employers
will be forced to cancel coverage. The legislation also increased
the cost of college tuition for Upstate Schools but left
it the same for colleges in New York City. Whjat's more, 90% of the
extra money will be sent to Albany for use in the State's General Fund.
The bill also transferred $306-million from the "Power For Jobs"
program and put it into the General Fund. Maziarz says the
program is mostly used to keep business Upstate. Paterson
said it was money they were not using. He said he was delighted
at the agreement but noted they have a long way to go to close
a $13-billion deficit predicted for next year. Only 23 per cent of the
$1.6-billion package dealt with spending cuts. Maziarz says he
cannot understand how anyone purporting to represent Upstate
could vote for it, but Democrats Francine Del Monte, Robin
Schmminger, and Antoinne Thompson did.
late yesterday by the Governor to close a $1.6-billion budget
deficit is bad news for Upstate. He was quick to point out he
voted against it and said it was negotiated by the State's top
three Democrats in a closed room with no input from legislators.
The insurance industry will take one of the biggest hits. It'll
raise the cost of premiums. Maziarz predicts hundreds
of thousands of people will lose their coverage because employers
will be forced to cancel coverage. The legislation also increased
the cost of college tuition for Upstate Schools but left
it the same for colleges in New York City. Whjat's more, 90% of the
extra money will be sent to Albany for use in the State's General Fund.
The bill also transferred $306-million from the "Power For Jobs"
program and put it into the General Fund. Maziarz says the
program is mostly used to keep business Upstate. Paterson
said it was money they were not using. He said he was delighted
at the agreement but noted they have a long way to go to close
a $13-billion deficit predicted for next year. Only 23 per cent of the
$1.6-billion package dealt with spending cuts. Maziarz says he
cannot understand how anyone purporting to represent Upstate
could vote for it, but Democrats Francine Del Monte, Robin
Schmminger, and Antoinne Thompson did.
RIVERA WANTS BOARD OF INQUIRY
County Democratic Party Chief Dan Rivera last night called for
an investigation into recent allegations against County Treasurer
Dave Broderick. Addressing the legislature, Rivera said he wants
a Board ofnquiry to look into accusations made by Teresa Synder.
The Amherst lawyer claimed in court last week Broderick absued his
authority as the County's public administrator of estates. Rivera
said Broderick's name needs to be cleared and the Board should
be formed in the interest of "transparency in government." Chairman
Bill Ross ordered a Sheriff's deputy to escort Rivera to his seat
after he also touched on the handling of a lawsuit against the
County by a lawyer whose also a partner in Majority Leader
Rick Updegrove's law firm. Ross said Rivera's comments were
too personal but Rivera says he mentioned Updegrove's name
Updegrove says he has no personal stake in the outcome and
zero involvement in the discussions about the case. It involves
a former jail inmate who claims guards failed to protect him when
he was attacked by a fellow inmate.
an investigation into recent allegations against County Treasurer
Dave Broderick. Addressing the legislature, Rivera said he wants
a Board ofnquiry to look into accusations made by Teresa Synder.
The Amherst lawyer claimed in court last week Broderick absued his
authority as the County's public administrator of estates. Rivera
said Broderick's name needs to be cleared and the Board should
be formed in the interest of "transparency in government." Chairman
Bill Ross ordered a Sheriff's deputy to escort Rivera to his seat
after he also touched on the handling of a lawsuit against the
County by a lawyer whose also a partner in Majority Leader
Rick Updegrove's law firm. Ross said Rivera's comments were
too personal but Rivera says he mentioned Updegrove's name
Updegrove says he has no personal stake in the outcome and
zero involvement in the discussions about the case. It involves
a former jail inmate who claims guards failed to protect him when
he was attacked by a fellow inmate.
SAFE THEFT
Lockport Police arrested a man Tuesday in connection
with last Summer's burglary of the Snowflake Ski Shop.
Nineteen year old David Smith of West Caledonia Street
was charged with felony grand larceny and third degree
burglary. Detective John Yotter said it took them awhile
to solve the case, that they had bits and pieces of
information and had to connect the dots. Smith eventually
confessed and said another man whose now living in
Sarasota, Florida was also involved. The two allegedly
forced open the door to the Transit Street business
July 10 and took a small safe containing about $3800.
Smith told them he was homeless and spent all the money
on food.
with last Summer's burglary of the Snowflake Ski Shop.
Nineteen year old David Smith of West Caledonia Street
was charged with felony grand larceny and third degree
burglary. Detective John Yotter said it took them awhile
to solve the case, that they had bits and pieces of
information and had to connect the dots. Smith eventually
confessed and said another man whose now living in
Sarasota, Florida was also involved. The two allegedly
forced open the door to the Transit Street business
July 10 and took a small safe containing about $3800.
Smith told them he was homeless and spent all the money
on food.
GASPORT BURGLARY
A Gasport man discovered Monday that about $8,800
worth of tools were taken from his Grace Avenue garage
sometime since January 12. The 38 year old told Sheriff's
deputies he only uses the detached garage to store Spring
and Summer items and he rarely goes into it in the Winter.
The missing items included two Stihl concrete saws worth
$1600, an asphalt plate tamper valued at $2500, and a
vibrating tamper worth $1800.
worth of tools were taken from his Grace Avenue garage
sometime since January 12. The 38 year old told Sheriff's
deputies he only uses the detached garage to store Spring
and Summer items and he rarely goes into it in the Winter.
The missing items included two Stihl concrete saws worth
$1600, an asphalt plate tamper valued at $2500, and a
vibrating tamper worth $1800.
ATTEMPTED ABDUCTION
Falls Police say a girl who turns 12 today escaped
an apparent abduction attempt Tuesday morning while
on her way to school. The victim said a pick-up pulled
up to her around 8:15 at 20th and Ferry. Three men
attempted to get her to come over to the vehicle but
she refused. The pick-up sped away, it's described as
an older model, red or burgandy in color.
an apparent abduction attempt Tuesday morning while
on her way to school. The victim said a pick-up pulled
up to her around 8:15 at 20th and Ferry. Three men
attempted to get her to come over to the vehicle but
she refused. The pick-up sped away, it's described as
an older model, red or burgandy in color.
FRAWLEY RESIGNS
Pendleton Councilman Joe Frawley turned in his
resignation yesterday. He's unhappy the council
voted last month to replace Town Attorney Andrea
Sammarco with the Lockport law firm of Seaman,
Jones, Hogan Brooks. Frawley sat in the audience
at last night's meeting but did vote on items. His
resignation takes effect March 31.
resignation yesterday. He's unhappy the council
voted last month to replace Town Attorney Andrea
Sammarco with the Lockport law firm of Seaman,
Jones, Hogan Brooks. Frawley sat in the audience
at last night's meeting but did vote on items. His
resignation takes effect March 31.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
COUNTY LEGISLATURE
The Economic Development Committee plans to
present a plan to bolster the County's economy
during tonight's meeting of the County Legislature.
Economic Development Committee Chair Rick
Updegrove says they will continue to seek out
companies dependent on our resources through
their "water starved regions" initiative. He said
they will continue to promote the Opportunity
Zones they created to provide incentives for
retail and commercial development in the
distressed cities of North Tonawanda, Lockport,
and the Falls. He also said they would continue
to agressively market Niagara County to Canadian
companiesthat would benefit from a U-S production
facility. The annual economic address is slated for
the beginning of the Legislature's regular meeting
starting at 7 at the Courthouse.
present a plan to bolster the County's economy
during tonight's meeting of the County Legislature.
Economic Development Committee Chair Rick
Updegrove says they will continue to seek out
companies dependent on our resources through
their "water starved regions" initiative. He said
they will continue to promote the Opportunity
Zones they created to provide incentives for
retail and commercial development in the
distressed cities of North Tonawanda, Lockport,
and the Falls. He also said they would continue
to agressively market Niagara County to Canadian
companiesthat would benefit from a U-S production
facility. The annual economic address is slated for
the beginning of the Legislature's regular meeting
starting at 7 at the Courthouse.
TOWN OF LOCKPORT
Saying they had heard complaints from residents living
near the Canal, lawmakers in the Town of Lockport
decided Monday not to back a request for a snowmobile
trail along the waterway's towpath. The Shawnee Snow
Chiefs asked the Board to back the plan at their last
meeting. Councilmember Paul Seijak said residents
were concerned about speeding and the fact that
illegal snowmobiling already takes place on the towpath.
Councilwoman Cheryl Antlowiak said she gotten calls
from people planning to speak out against the proposal
during tomorrow's formal Board meeting.
near the Canal, lawmakers in the Town of Lockport
decided Monday not to back a request for a snowmobile
trail along the waterway's towpath. The Shawnee Snow
Chiefs asked the Board to back the plan at their last
meeting. Councilmember Paul Seijak said residents
were concerned about speeding and the fact that
illegal snowmobiling already takes place on the towpath.
Councilwoman Cheryl Antlowiak said she gotten calls
from people planning to speak out against the proposal
during tomorrow's formal Board meeting.
FALLS BREAK IN
A couple of large televisions, cash, and jewlery were found
missing Monday from a home in the 600 block of 28th Street
in the Falls. The owners are in Florida. The break-in was
discovered by a man and woman who went to check on the house.
A 42-inch TV was taken from the living room, a 37 inch from
the bedroom, and jewlery was scattered on the floor.
The bed looked like it had been slept in. Police found a
screwdriver in the basement where it appeared a file cabinet
had been pried open. An undetermined amount of money
was taken. Police said the burglary took place sometime
over a twop day period.
missing Monday from a home in the 600 block of 28th Street
in the Falls. The owners are in Florida. The break-in was
discovered by a man and woman who went to check on the house.
A 42-inch TV was taken from the living room, a 37 inch from
the bedroom, and jewlery was scattered on the floor.
The bed looked like it had been slept in. Police found a
screwdriver in the basement where it appeared a file cabinet
had been pried open. An undetermined amount of money
was taken. Police said the burglary took place sometime
over a twop day period.
DRUGS
Lockport police say they found crack cocaine and a large
amount of hydrocodone pills last night as they were helping
the County Drug Task Force and the State Division of Parole
look for a man at 77 Main Street. Forty year old Sylvester
Harris of 597 Spruce Avenue in the Falls was found in the
12th floor apartment of David Williams. Police said Harris
told them razor baldes and suspected crack found on the
top of a dresser belonged to him. He also allegedly had
the hydrocodone pills on his person. He was charged with
three counts of possession of a controlled substance.
Thirty-nine year old David Williams was charged with
criminal nuisance.
amount of hydrocodone pills last night as they were helping
the County Drug Task Force and the State Division of Parole
look for a man at 77 Main Street. Forty year old Sylvester
Harris of 597 Spruce Avenue in the Falls was found in the
12th floor apartment of David Williams. Police said Harris
told them razor baldes and suspected crack found on the
top of a dresser belonged to him. He also allegedly had
the hydrocodone pills on his person. He was charged with
three counts of possession of a controlled substance.
Thirty-nine year old David Williams was charged with
criminal nuisance.
BUDGET PROBLEMS AT N-C-C-C
Niagara County Community College President Doctor
James Klyczek says the school is considering laying
off as many as 34 non tenured employees or
eliminating full academic programs. He told the
Niagara Gazette it's in response to a projected
$2.6-million deficit predicted for the 2009-2010
academic year. He didn't say which programs would
be cut, but indicated less popular ones would be the
most vulnerable. Klyczek said the Board of Trustees
must decide by March 2 which employees will go.
The Chair of the college's finance committee, Malcolm
Needler, said the Board should decide where to
reccomend cuts when they meet February 18.
James Klyczek says the school is considering laying
off as many as 34 non tenured employees or
eliminating full academic programs. He told the
Niagara Gazette it's in response to a projected
$2.6-million deficit predicted for the 2009-2010
academic year. He didn't say which programs would
be cut, but indicated less popular ones would be the
most vulnerable. Klyczek said the Board of Trustees
must decide by March 2 which employees will go.
The Chair of the college's finance committee, Malcolm
Needler, said the Board should decide where to
reccomend cuts when they meet February 18.
ROY HART SCHOOLS
The Roy Hart Board of Education will hold a budget
workshop at 6pm Thursday in the district office. Another
session will be held a week from tonight at the same time.
The Board has cancelled it's meeting for February 12.
Any business that needs to be done before their next
session on the 26th will be done next Tuesday.
workshop at 6pm Thursday in the district office. Another
session will be held a week from tonight at the same time.
The Board has cancelled it's meeting for February 12.
Any business that needs to be done before their next
session on the 26th will be done next Tuesday.
WILSON HOUSE FIRE
A fire that started in the chimney of a home at 3278 West
Lake Road in Wilson late Sunday afternoon did an
estimated $15,000 damage. The blaze spread from the
chimney to a small portion of the roof. Chris Empson told
Sheriff's deputies he was watching TV with his kids when
he saw what looked like hot ash falling from the ceiling
near his wood burning stove. Then he noticed the section
of the stove near the ceiling was glowing red. His phone
was dead and a neighbor called 9-1-1. The home was
declared uninhabitable and the family is staying with
relatives.
Lake Road in Wilson late Sunday afternoon did an
estimated $15,000 damage. The blaze spread from the
chimney to a small portion of the roof. Chris Empson told
Sheriff's deputies he was watching TV with his kids when
he saw what looked like hot ash falling from the ceiling
near his wood burning stove. Then he noticed the section
of the stove near the ceiling was glowing red. His phone
was dead and a neighbor called 9-1-1. The home was
declared uninhabitable and the family is staying with
relatives.
D-W-I & MORE
A 20 year old Lockport woman is facing a slew of charges..
including DWI...after police pulled her over just before
midnight at the corner of North Transit and Niagara. Rashelle
Washington of 63 Gabriel Drive allegedly refused to take a
preliminary breath screen and a chemical test to determine
her blood alcohol content. She was originally stopped for
vehicle and traffic infractions. She was also charged with
aggravated unlicensed operation, no insurance, no
inspection, and two counts of using another person's
license. Eighteen year old Kurtis Washington of 223
Church was also charged with obstructing governmental
administration. Police say he continually walked by the
stop and tried to engage the driver in conversation. He was
told to leave several times and allegedly yelled obscenties
at officers.
including DWI...after police pulled her over just before
midnight at the corner of North Transit and Niagara. Rashelle
Washington of 63 Gabriel Drive allegedly refused to take a
preliminary breath screen and a chemical test to determine
her blood alcohol content. She was originally stopped for
vehicle and traffic infractions. She was also charged with
aggravated unlicensed operation, no insurance, no
inspection, and two counts of using another person's
license. Eighteen year old Kurtis Washington of 223
Church was also charged with obstructing governmental
administration. Police say he continually walked by the
stop and tried to engage the driver in conversation. He was
told to leave several times and allegedly yelled obscenties
at officers.
ICE ARENA
The Lockport Planning Board decided last night to
reccomend to the City Council that they o-k a special
use permit for the proposed ice rink in the former Jubilee
Market on Chestnut Street. Lawmakers are slated to
vote on it at tomorrow night's meeting, Lockport Ice Arena
and Sports Center Board member Tate Pitrello says it's
needed so the State's Dormitory Authority will come through
with a $450,000 grant. Another member, City Corporation
Counsel John Ottaviano said they had decided to install
two rinks and raise the roof of the building. The Arena
Board has also hired Firland Management of Lewiston,
Maine. They'll design the complex and put together a
cost estimate and a management and staffing plan.
reccomend to the City Council that they o-k a special
use permit for the proposed ice rink in the former Jubilee
Market on Chestnut Street. Lawmakers are slated to
vote on it at tomorrow night's meeting, Lockport Ice Arena
and Sports Center Board member Tate Pitrello says it's
needed so the State's Dormitory Authority will come through
with a $450,000 grant. Another member, City Corporation
Counsel John Ottaviano said they had decided to install
two rinks and raise the roof of the building. The Arena
Board has also hired Firland Management of Lewiston,
Maine. They'll design the complex and put together a
cost estimate and a management and staffing plan.
Monday, February 2, 2009
HOSPITAL MERGER
The merger of Lockport Memorial Hospital and Inter
Community Memorial Hospital takes effect today.
The merger is in accordance with the reccomendations of
the Comission on Health Care Facilties in the 21stn Century
also known as the Berger Commission. The merged hospitals
will be called Eastern Niagara Hospital and will continue to
provide services in Lockport and Newfane. The two have
been affiliated and working closely together since
September 1999. Some of the anticipated changes
include streamlined goverance, further economies of scale,
increased cost effectiveness, and additional flexibility in
responding to the complex and changing healthcare industry.
A new logo is part of the change.
Community Memorial Hospital takes effect today.
The merger is in accordance with the reccomendations of
the Comission on Health Care Facilties in the 21stn Century
also known as the Berger Commission. The merged hospitals
will be called Eastern Niagara Hospital and will continue to
provide services in Lockport and Newfane. The two have
been affiliated and working closely together since
September 1999. Some of the anticipated changes
include streamlined goverance, further economies of scale,
increased cost effectiveness, and additional flexibility in
responding to the complex and changing healthcare industry.
A new logo is part of the change.
ENERGY EXPO
Cornell Co-operative Extension will be holding a six hour
"Energy Expo" Tuesday. There'll be exhibits by National
Grid, the 4-H Youth, Buffalo-Niagara River Keepers, local
business, and NYSEG. The Expo runs from 1-7 pm at the
4-H Training Center at the Fairgrounds. Several speakers
will offer tips on how to save money on your energy bill.
Mark Johnson of National Grid will be first up at 2pm.
A spokesman from Solar Liberty Energy Systems will
will speak at 3, and Joe Laquatra of Cornell will talk about
steps for Tightening Your Home at 4 & 6pm. Cornell
Co-operative Extension has a statewide agreement with
the State's Energy Research and Development Authority to
do energy education. There'll be door prizes and
refreshments will be on sale.
"Energy Expo" Tuesday. There'll be exhibits by National
Grid, the 4-H Youth, Buffalo-Niagara River Keepers, local
business, and NYSEG. The Expo runs from 1-7 pm at the
4-H Training Center at the Fairgrounds. Several speakers
will offer tips on how to save money on your energy bill.
Mark Johnson of National Grid will be first up at 2pm.
A spokesman from Solar Liberty Energy Systems will
will speak at 3, and Joe Laquatra of Cornell will talk about
steps for Tightening Your Home at 4 & 6pm. Cornell
Co-operative Extension has a statewide agreement with
the State's Energy Research and Development Authority to
do energy education. There'll be door prizes and
refreshments will be on sale.
FLOOD PLAIN MAPS
County residents will get a chance to have their
say about new FEMA and State D-E-C imposed
flood insurance rate maps at two public forums
today and tomorrow. The new digitial maps affect
a number of County properties and the rates charged
for federal flood insurance. The maps will show
properties in the flood plains and representatives
will be there for those wishing to contest them.
The first session runs from 4 -8 pm tonight at the
County's Public Safety Training Facility at 5574
Niagara Street Extension. The second will be on
Tuesday from 4 till 8pm at the Wheatfield Community
Center. County lawmaker Pete Smolinski says
water flow and drainage patterns change dramatically
over time due to surface erosin, land use, and
natural forces.
say about new FEMA and State D-E-C imposed
flood insurance rate maps at two public forums
today and tomorrow. The new digitial maps affect
a number of County properties and the rates charged
for federal flood insurance. The maps will show
properties in the flood plains and representatives
will be there for those wishing to contest them.
The first session runs from 4 -8 pm tonight at the
County's Public Safety Training Facility at 5574
Niagara Street Extension. The second will be on
Tuesday from 4 till 8pm at the Wheatfield Community
Center. County lawmaker Pete Smolinski says
water flow and drainage patterns change dramatically
over time due to surface erosin, land use, and
natural forces.
SALMONELLA
The County Health Department announced Friday a resident
has recovered from a case of salmonella poisioning they
contracted in late December. The Center For Disease Control
said their testing indicated it was the same strain linked to
tainted peanut butter that has sickened others across the Nation.
The person said they had not eaten any peanut butter but they
could have been infected by another member of the household
who had been ill but wasn't tested for the bacteria. The Health
Department says the sickness can be spread to others when the
germs are not washed off your hands after using the restroom.
has recovered from a case of salmonella poisioning they
contracted in late December. The Center For Disease Control
said their testing indicated it was the same strain linked to
tainted peanut butter that has sickened others across the Nation.
The person said they had not eaten any peanut butter but they
could have been infected by another member of the household
who had been ill but wasn't tested for the bacteria. The Health
Department says the sickness can be spread to others when the
germs are not washed off your hands after using the restroom.
NEW TOWN HALL
Workers are starting today to turn the old Miller Hose building
into the new digs for town government in Newfane. Supervisor
Tim Horanburg says they're starting on the inside. The finished
product will be much more energy efficient. It'll be powered by
solar panels in the daytime and heating and cooling will be
done with a Mitsubishi converter systtem. He expects they won't
have much of an energy bill in the future. The front section of the
building will be the Town Hall while a 5200 square foot community
center will go in the back. Horanburg says every Town office will
move there except the Courts and the Department of Public Works.
Thety'll remain in the current Town Hall on Transit. The Town has
taken out a 30 year $1.6-million low interest loan from the US
Department of Agriculture to help pay for it all. They also received
a $30,000 grant from the agency. State Senator George Maziarz
provided more grants totalling $174,000 and Assemblywoman
Francine Del Monte provided another $7,000. Another $100,000
was realized when the Town sold cell phone tower rights last
year. The structure was built in 1952. The Town paid $225,000
for it last year.
into the new digs for town government in Newfane. Supervisor
Tim Horanburg says they're starting on the inside. The finished
product will be much more energy efficient. It'll be powered by
solar panels in the daytime and heating and cooling will be
done with a Mitsubishi converter systtem. He expects they won't
have much of an energy bill in the future. The front section of the
building will be the Town Hall while a 5200 square foot community
center will go in the back. Horanburg says every Town office will
move there except the Courts and the Department of Public Works.
Thety'll remain in the current Town Hall on Transit. The Town has
taken out a 30 year $1.6-million low interest loan from the US
Department of Agriculture to help pay for it all. They also received
a $30,000 grant from the agency. State Senator George Maziarz
provided more grants totalling $174,000 and Assemblywoman
Francine Del Monte provided another $7,000. Another $100,000
was realized when the Town sold cell phone tower rights last
year. The structure was built in 1952. The Town paid $225,000
for it last year.
TELETECH
Teletech said Saturay they'll need about 300 people to
work for one or two weeks in February. The jobs will
be for inbound customer support for the digitial TV
transistion. You must attend a job fair at their offices
Wednesday to be considered. A press release said
they would start hiring as early as thi Saturday. The
pay will be $16.38 an hour. The shifts will run seven
days a week.
work for one or two weeks in February. The jobs will
be for inbound customer support for the digitial TV
transistion. You must attend a job fair at their offices
Wednesday to be considered. A press release said
they would start hiring as early as thi Saturday. The
pay will be $16.38 an hour. The shifts will run seven
days a week.
OZ
The OZ theme park project is still on track in
Wheatfield. That's the gist of a story running in
today's Gazette. Town Attorney Bob O'Toole
told the paper they're still waiting for the green
light on environmental studies. He says things
are moving forward but there's no time schedule.
O'Toole said officials from the Town stay in
regular contact with Oz Central and they talk
two or three times a week.
Wheatfield. That's the gist of a story running in
today's Gazette. Town Attorney Bob O'Toole
told the paper they're still waiting for the green
light on environmental studies. He says things
are moving forward but there's no time schedule.
O'Toole said officials from the Town stay in
regular contact with Oz Central and they talk
two or three times a week.
RECYCLING
Lockport's recycling committee is just about
ready to draft a proposal seeking bids from
companies interested in running the city's
full curbside recycling program....but it
probably won't affect the entire city at the
start. Alderwoman Richelle Pisceri says
they're thinking about beginning the program
in one ward to get the kinks out before
expanding it to the entire City. Officials
had hoped to begin the program in the
Spring but Mayor Mike Tucker says it may
not be possible till the Summer.
ready to draft a proposal seeking bids from
companies interested in running the city's
full curbside recycling program....but it
probably won't affect the entire city at the
start. Alderwoman Richelle Pisceri says
they're thinking about beginning the program
in one ward to get the kinks out before
expanding it to the entire City. Officials
had hoped to begin the program in the
Spring but Mayor Mike Tucker says it may
not be possible till the Summer.
RESIDENTS FOR RESPONSIBLE GOVERNMENT
A residents group is taking the State Department
of Environmental Conservation to court to stop
them from giving CWM the o-k to expand their
Lewiston landfill. Residents For Responsible
Government filed the lawsuit Friday in State Supreme
Court in Albany County. The group maintains the
company's plan would bring in another 160,000
tons of waste. Niagara County filed a similiar
suit last week.
of Environmental Conservation to court to stop
them from giving CWM the o-k to expand their
Lewiston landfill. Residents For Responsible
Government filed the lawsuit Friday in State Supreme
Court in Albany County. The group maintains the
company's plan would bring in another 160,000
tons of waste. Niagara County filed a similiar
suit last week.
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