Local members of the National Association of
Letter Carriers are hoping to out Western
New York back on top as they get ready for
tomorrow's annual food drive. You're asked
to put donations of non perishable food
items by your mailbox and a letter carrier
or volunteer will pick them up. Lockport's
effort is being co-ordinated by letter carrier
Walt Gorsky. He says Saturday is a heavy
volume mail day and they need volunteers
to help. The United Way is handling that
aspect and you should call 434-1190 in
Lockport or 285-8461 in Niagara Falls.
United Way spokesman Phil Buffone says
it's the largest single day food drive in the
nation and everything that is donated
locally stays in Niagara County and is
going to about a dozen food pantries.
Checks can be made payable to the United
Way and all money received will go to buy
more food. Call the Post Office for pick-up
if you have a large donation. You can also
take food to the lobby of any local post office.
Friday, May 8, 2009
AUTOMOTIVE NEWS
A federal judge giving Delphi more time Thursday
to come up with a plan to exit from bankruptcy.
Judge Robert Drain said the company has till May
21 to submit it's plan to lenders but acknowledged
the fate of the auto parts supplier hinges on what
happens to General Motors. Delphi's lenders will
have till June 2 to offer comments on the company's
proposal. Meantime GM said the Tonawanda
Engine Plant will be closed for a period of four to
eight weeks over the Summer. The news coming
as the auto maker announced they had lost $6-billion
in the first quarter. The shutdown is expected to begin
in early June and end July 13. It includes two weeks
when the plant is normally closed each year to
prepare for model changeovers. Eight hundred
and thirty people currently work there, 360 hourly
workers have been laid off due to volume reductions.
to come up with a plan to exit from bankruptcy.
Judge Robert Drain said the company has till May
21 to submit it's plan to lenders but acknowledged
the fate of the auto parts supplier hinges on what
happens to General Motors. Delphi's lenders will
have till June 2 to offer comments on the company's
proposal. Meantime GM said the Tonawanda
Engine Plant will be closed for a period of four to
eight weeks over the Summer. The news coming
as the auto maker announced they had lost $6-billion
in the first quarter. The shutdown is expected to begin
in early June and end July 13. It includes two weeks
when the plant is normally closed each year to
prepare for model changeovers. Eight hundred
and thirty people currently work there, 360 hourly
workers have been laid off due to volume reductions.
RETIREMENT
The Chief Deputy of the Administrative Division
at the County Sheriffs Department will retire
Saturday. John Taylor has worked for the
department for 37 years and has been in the
Administrative Division since 1986. Sheriff
Jim Voutour said Taylor's responsibilities
included a lot of work with the Jail ....
taking care of hires, discipline and
discharges. He was very active in managing
some of the grants received and in
implementing policies and working directly for
the Sheriff. Taylor started in the road patrol
division in 1972 and was promoted to Sergeant
six years later. Voutour expecting many
to show up today for a retirement ceremony
that starts at 3pm at the department on Niagara
Street Extension. Voutour said he would name
Taylor's successor tomorrow.
at the County Sheriffs Department will retire
Saturday. John Taylor has worked for the
department for 37 years and has been in the
Administrative Division since 1986. Sheriff
Jim Voutour said Taylor's responsibilities
included a lot of work with the Jail ....
taking care of hires, discipline and
discharges. He was very active in managing
some of the grants received and in
implementing policies and working directly for
the Sheriff. Taylor started in the road patrol
division in 1972 and was promoted to Sergeant
six years later. Voutour expecting many
to show up today for a retirement ceremony
that starts at 3pm at the department on Niagara
Street Extension. Voutour said he would name
Taylor's successor tomorrow.
HARTLAND BIBLE CHURCH
The Hartland Bible Church is getting ready to hold
their first service Sunday in the former Saint Mary's
building in Gasport. It's Mothers Day and pastor
Lowell Gypson says the kids will be joined by
contemporary Christian singer Jerry Williams as
they sing for the moms. Each mother will also
receive a small gift and flowers. Gypson will
deliver a homily. The Hartland Bible Church
paid a half a million dollars for the former
Catholic church. The Sanctuary can hold around
475 people and the fellowship hall downstairs
about 500. There are also several classrooms and
the rectory has been converted into more that'll
be used for Sunday School. The Church has about
200 members and now there's plenty of room to
add to the flock. Hartland Bible was formerly
located in Johnsons Creek. Sunday's service
starts at 9:45.
their first service Sunday in the former Saint Mary's
building in Gasport. It's Mothers Day and pastor
Lowell Gypson says the kids will be joined by
contemporary Christian singer Jerry Williams as
they sing for the moms. Each mother will also
receive a small gift and flowers. Gypson will
deliver a homily. The Hartland Bible Church
paid a half a million dollars for the former
Catholic church. The Sanctuary can hold around
475 people and the fellowship hall downstairs
about 500. There are also several classrooms and
the rectory has been converted into more that'll
be used for Sunday School. The Church has about
200 members and now there's plenty of room to
add to the flock. Hartland Bible was formerly
located in Johnsons Creek. Sunday's service
starts at 9:45.
407 SOUTH STREET
The Union Sun & Journal reporting today a run down
house at 407 South Street will probably be torn down.
The structure was condemned last year. Its now owned
by an Oklahoma bank but the local trust that briefly
owned it is still being hassled in Housing Court. Judge
Tom DiMillo suggested yesterday the continued
prosecution of the Trust makes no sense since the
house is obviously owned by the bank...but prosecutor
Matt Brooks said he would only reccomend a discharge
if some action is seen on the property. He agreed the
bank seems ready to do something and consented to
an adjournment of the proceedings till June 18.
house at 407 South Street will probably be torn down.
The structure was condemned last year. Its now owned
by an Oklahoma bank but the local trust that briefly
owned it is still being hassled in Housing Court. Judge
Tom DiMillo suggested yesterday the continued
prosecution of the Trust makes no sense since the
house is obviously owned by the bank...but prosecutor
Matt Brooks said he would only reccomend a discharge
if some action is seen on the property. He agreed the
bank seems ready to do something and consented to
an adjournment of the proceedings till June 18.
FEDERAL BUCKS
Congresswoman Louise Slaughter says there is
a billion dollars in the President's proposed budget
for next year for high speed rail projects. The
Federal Railroad Administration decides how much
will be allotted to individual states. Slaughter also
reports there is $475-million in the spending plan
for tackling sewage contamination, invasive species,
and toxic pollution on the Great Lakes.
a billion dollars in the President's proposed budget
for next year for high speed rail projects. The
Federal Railroad Administration decides how much
will be allotted to individual states. Slaughter also
reports there is $475-million in the spending plan
for tackling sewage contamination, invasive species,
and toxic pollution on the Great Lakes.
FALLS CONCERTS
Two concert series will be back again this
Summer in Niagara Falls. "This Vehicle" kicks
off the "Friday At The Falls" when they perform
July 3. Some of the others booked for the 9 week
series include The USA Band, Studio 54, and
Salt Peter. The shows will be on Old Falls
Street. The "Sunday On The Steps" begins
at the NACC July 5 with the Lynn Ligamari
Quartet. The Barroom Buzzards are slated
for July 12, Pops & Friends on the 19th. The
shows continue each Sunday through August
30. The Niagara Fine Arts program plans to
present their version of Disney's High School
Musical July 16-18 at the high school.
Summer in Niagara Falls. "This Vehicle" kicks
off the "Friday At The Falls" when they perform
July 3. Some of the others booked for the 9 week
series include The USA Band, Studio 54, and
Salt Peter. The shows will be on Old Falls
Street. The "Sunday On The Steps" begins
at the NACC July 5 with the Lynn Ligamari
Quartet. The Barroom Buzzards are slated
for July 12, Pops & Friends on the 19th. The
shows continue each Sunday through August
30. The Niagara Fine Arts program plans to
present their version of Disney's High School
Musical July 16-18 at the high school.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
LOMBARDI/GENEWICK
Lockport Council President John Lombardi
announced today he is not running for
re-election in November. He said career
opportunities have come to him over the
last year and he needs to look into them.
He said every politician has a shelf life
and his is now. He didn't rule out a
return to politics in the future. Shortly
afterward, City Republican Chairman
Ken Genewick announed he would seek
the Fifth Ward seat. He said Lombardi
had told him he was not going to run
and there was no better time than now to
make his announcement. He says he
believes we can have a more transparent
city government and the Council can be
more engaged with the Community.
Genewick was born and raised in the
city and has an MBA degree from U-B.
He's married and has two children.
announced today he is not running for
re-election in November. He said career
opportunities have come to him over the
last year and he needs to look into them.
He said every politician has a shelf life
and his is now. He didn't rule out a
return to politics in the future. Shortly
afterward, City Republican Chairman
Ken Genewick announed he would seek
the Fifth Ward seat. He said Lombardi
had told him he was not going to run
and there was no better time than now to
make his announcement. He says he
believes we can have a more transparent
city government and the Council can be
more engaged with the Community.
Genewick was born and raised in the
city and has an MBA degree from U-B.
He's married and has two children.
CITY HALL SECURITY
A 3-2 vote last night killed Lockport Mayor
Mike Tucker's plan to hike up security at
City Hall. Joe Kibler and Flora McKenzie
voted against the $45,000 proposal saying
they had not been given enough information
on the project. Council President John
Lombardi, Pat Schrader, and Amanada
Alexander cast the yes votes. Alderwoman
Richelle Pisceri was absent aftre having
given birth to her second child. Lombardi
said he plans to bring the issue back for
another vote. Tucker said the Building
Inspector rejected McKenzie's suggestion
that a wall be built to seperate the court area
from the rest of the building. Former
alderwoman Phyllis Green spoke against
the idea during the comment period. She
said Lockport is supposed to be a friendly
city and she didn't want people to go
through security. She said she never
once felt threatened when she worked
in the building. A Lake Avenue man called
the idea reprehensible.
Mike Tucker's plan to hike up security at
City Hall. Joe Kibler and Flora McKenzie
voted against the $45,000 proposal saying
they had not been given enough information
on the project. Council President John
Lombardi, Pat Schrader, and Amanada
Alexander cast the yes votes. Alderwoman
Richelle Pisceri was absent aftre having
given birth to her second child. Lombardi
said he plans to bring the issue back for
another vote. Tucker said the Building
Inspector rejected McKenzie's suggestion
that a wall be built to seperate the court area
from the rest of the building. Former
alderwoman Phyllis Green spoke against
the idea during the comment period. She
said Lockport is supposed to be a friendly
city and she didn't want people to go
through security. She said she never
once felt threatened when she worked
in the building. A Lake Avenue man called
the idea reprehensible.
TROWBRIDGE
Retired Lockport police detective John Trowbridge
was sentenced yesterday to two years probation
and fined $10,000 for his involvement with the
Royal Order of the Jesters. The 62 year old
pled guilty to transporting a female across State
linesin October 2005 to engage in prostitution.
Former State Supreme Court Judge Ronald Tills
and others were also involved.
was sentenced yesterday to two years probation
and fined $10,000 for his involvement with the
Royal Order of the Jesters. The 62 year old
pled guilty to transporting a female across State
linesin October 2005 to engage in prostitution.
Former State Supreme Court Judge Ronald Tills
and others were also involved.
NEWFANE
The Newfane School Board accepted the resignation
Tuesday of a High School teacher accused od having
an inappropriate relationship with a student. Fifty year
old Allan Grogan of Derby is accused of giving a
minor indecent material, endangering the welfare of
a child, and four counts of sex abuse. He's free on
$5,000 bail. The Special Ed teacher was suspended
last month after working in the District for six years.
Tuesday of a High School teacher accused od having
an inappropriate relationship with a student. Fifty year
old Allan Grogan of Derby is accused of giving a
minor indecent material, endangering the welfare of
a child, and four counts of sex abuse. He's free on
$5,000 bail. The Special Ed teacher was suspended
last month after working in the District for six years.
BANK ROBBERY
A robber got away with an undisclosed amount
of cash from the M&T branch at 880 Military Road
around 11:20 am Wednesday. He handed a teller
a note and demanded money but did not display
a weapon. Falls Detective Captain Ernest Palmer
described him as a black male, about 6 foot 4, and
weighing about 250 pounds. He was wearing a
black baseball cap, a cream colored sweater, and
black pants. Call 286-2553 if you have information.
of cash from the M&T branch at 880 Military Road
around 11:20 am Wednesday. He handed a teller
a note and demanded money but did not display
a weapon. Falls Detective Captain Ernest Palmer
described him as a black male, about 6 foot 4, and
weighing about 250 pounds. He was wearing a
black baseball cap, a cream colored sweater, and
black pants. Call 286-2553 if you have information.
MARLBORO INN
One man was arrested and another taken to Mount
Saint Mary's following a fight in the parking lot
of Sanborn's Marlboro Inn around 2:15 this morning.
Twenty-five year old Zachary Barrand of 5404
Townline Road was charged with disorderly
conduct. A 27 year old North Tonawanda man
was taken to the hospital and treated for
lacerations and swelling to his face and
mouth. Deputies said both men were intoxciated
at the time of the incident.
Saint Mary's following a fight in the parking lot
of Sanborn's Marlboro Inn around 2:15 this morning.
Twenty-five year old Zachary Barrand of 5404
Townline Road was charged with disorderly
conduct. A 27 year old North Tonawanda man
was taken to the hospital and treated for
lacerations and swelling to his face and
mouth. Deputies said both men were intoxciated
at the time of the incident.
SUMMIT MALL
Wheatfield Supervisor Tim Demler told a group
of tenants of the Summit Mall last night he
personally talked with representatives from a
Buffalo company yesterday interested in the
shopping center. He also said the County IDA
met with two other companies from undisclosed
locations. Demler stressed the discussions
were preliminary and the Town and County are
still proceeding as if the Mall will close June 6.
He said there's nothing signed, nothing official.
They're just hoping.
of tenants of the Summit Mall last night he
personally talked with representatives from a
Buffalo company yesterday interested in the
shopping center. He also said the County IDA
met with two other companies from undisclosed
locations. Demler stressed the discussions
were preliminary and the Town and County are
still proceeding as if the Mall will close June 6.
He said there's nothing signed, nothing official.
They're just hoping.
ARTPARK
The Guess Who, America, and Peter Frampton some
of the entertainers booked for the Tuesday In The Park
Series at Artpark. The shows will begin June 9 with
the Reverand Horton Heat. Blue Oyster Cult, America,
and Blue Rodeo round out the offerings in June. The
Guess Who, Grand Funk Railroad, 54-40, and the
Starship with Mickey Thomas are set for July. August
will begin with Chris Isaak on the 4th. The Mahine will
play music by Pink Floyd on the 11th and The Outlaws
and Peter Frampton will appear on the 18th and the
25th.
of the entertainers booked for the Tuesday In The Park
Series at Artpark. The shows will begin June 9 with
the Reverand Horton Heat. Blue Oyster Cult, America,
and Blue Rodeo round out the offerings in June. The
Guess Who, Grand Funk Railroad, 54-40, and the
Starship with Mickey Thomas are set for July. August
will begin with Chris Isaak on the 4th. The Mahine will
play music by Pink Floyd on the 11th and The Outlaws
and Peter Frampton will appear on the 18th and the
25th.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
SUMMIT MALL
About 200 people will be out of a job with
yesterday's news Wheatfield's Summit
Mall will close by June 6. The owners filed
for chapter 11 bankruptcy protection Tuesday
in North Carolina. Only the BonTon, Sears,
and Save-A-Lot will remain open. Owner
Jim Anthony said he had not made a profit
since he took it over in 2002. He said global
economic problems were the deciding factor,
but also noted they had recently lost key tenants like
Steve & Barry's. The company listed assets of
between $1 & $10-million on it's bankruptcy
filing with liabilities of between $10 & $50-million.
Wheatfield Supervisor Tim Demler said he would
contact Anthony within two days and said he
hoped to find a new owner. He admitted it would
be difficult since the structure has deterioated
in the past two years. The County IDA has also
been talking with Anthony about the possibility
of the County or other public agencies making
use of the property. Demler plans to meet with
the tenants at 9 tonight. A large portion of the
parking lot and the mall itself will be closed prior
to June 6. The property will be sold at auction
at the end of the bankruptcy proceedings. The
Summit opened in 1973 and was expanded in
1979.
yesterday's news Wheatfield's Summit
Mall will close by June 6. The owners filed
for chapter 11 bankruptcy protection Tuesday
in North Carolina. Only the BonTon, Sears,
and Save-A-Lot will remain open. Owner
Jim Anthony said he had not made a profit
since he took it over in 2002. He said global
economic problems were the deciding factor,
but also noted they had recently lost key tenants like
Steve & Barry's. The company listed assets of
between $1 & $10-million on it's bankruptcy
filing with liabilities of between $10 & $50-million.
Wheatfield Supervisor Tim Demler said he would
contact Anthony within two days and said he
hoped to find a new owner. He admitted it would
be difficult since the structure has deterioated
in the past two years. The County IDA has also
been talking with Anthony about the possibility
of the County or other public agencies making
use of the property. Demler plans to meet with
the tenants at 9 tonight. A large portion of the
parking lot and the mall itself will be closed prior
to June 6. The property will be sold at auction
at the end of the bankruptcy proceedings. The
Summit opened in 1973 and was expanded in
1979.
DESALES AND LEW PORT HONORED
County lawmaklers last night recognized the
accomplishments of the DeSales
Odyssey of the Mind team and the Lew-Port
cheerleaders. The DeSales 8th grade team
placed second in a state-wide competition and
is headed to Ames, Iowa for the worldwide finals
later this month. Their tribute was led by
Lockport's Keith McNall. He said he was
impressed ...and there aren't a lot of things
that impress him anymore. Team member Emily
Hillman explained how the competition works.
The LewPort cheerleaders were recognized for
winning the 2009 American Sunshine Open and
they gave lawmakers a sample of their work.
accomplishments of the DeSales
Odyssey of the Mind team and the Lew-Port
cheerleaders. The DeSales 8th grade team
placed second in a state-wide competition and
is headed to Ames, Iowa for the worldwide finals
later this month. Their tribute was led by
Lockport's Keith McNall. He said he was
impressed ...and there aren't a lot of things
that impress him anymore. Team member Emily
Hillman explained how the competition works.
The LewPort cheerleaders were recognized for
winning the 2009 American Sunshine Open and
they gave lawmakers a sample of their work.
COUNTY LEGISLATURE
Two resolutions aimed at changing the way
County Treasurer Dave Broderick handles his
private estate work were sent to committee at
last night's meeting of County lawmakers.
Dennis Virtuoso wants Broderick to repay the
County for conducting the operation out of his
County office and to stop doing so in the future.
The other resolution, sponsored by Majority
Leader Rick Updegrove, calls on the County
Attorney to do a review of any and all options
available to the County on how it deals with the
administration of estates. Both were sent to the
Administration Committee with little discussion.
Lawmakers also o-k'd a three year contract with
the union representing 149 corrections officers
at the jail. They'll receive a three per cent raise
each year. The same deal has been agreed to
by three other county unions. The contract
expires in 2011 and was ratified by the union
last Wednesday.
County Treasurer Dave Broderick handles his
private estate work were sent to committee at
last night's meeting of County lawmakers.
Dennis Virtuoso wants Broderick to repay the
County for conducting the operation out of his
County office and to stop doing so in the future.
The other resolution, sponsored by Majority
Leader Rick Updegrove, calls on the County
Attorney to do a review of any and all options
available to the County on how it deals with the
administration of estates. Both were sent to the
Administration Committee with little discussion.
Lawmakers also o-k'd a three year contract with
the union representing 149 corrections officers
at the jail. They'll receive a three per cent raise
each year. The same deal has been agreed to
by three other county unions. The contract
expires in 2011 and was ratified by the union
last Wednesday.
GILLIBRAND'S FIRST BILL
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has introduced a
bill to do away with a $25 fee charged to single
parents to cover the administrative costs of child
support. The fee was instituted as part of the
Deficit Reduction Act of 2005. It gave States the
option of having the parents pay for it and that's
what was done in New York. She said 1,309
parents in Niagara County have paid the fee
this year and it affects 1,964 parents are affected.
She said she learned about the issue while she
was still in the House of Representatives...that
a single mom in Warren County said she needed
te $25 to buy her three boys lunch for a week.
The bill is the first piece of legislation sponsored
by Gillibrand since the Governor appointed her to
take Hillary's Senate seat earlier this year.
bill to do away with a $25 fee charged to single
parents to cover the administrative costs of child
support. The fee was instituted as part of the
Deficit Reduction Act of 2005. It gave States the
option of having the parents pay for it and that's
what was done in New York. She said 1,309
parents in Niagara County have paid the fee
this year and it affects 1,964 parents are affected.
She said she learned about the issue while she
was still in the House of Representatives...that
a single mom in Warren County said she needed
te $25 to buy her three boys lunch for a week.
The bill is the first piece of legislation sponsored
by Gillibrand since the Governor appointed her to
take Hillary's Senate seat earlier this year.
VACANT HOUSE HIT
A 30 year old Sanborn man is charged with felony
DWI and leaving the scene of an accident after the
van he was driving allegedly hit a vacant house on
Highland Avenue in the Falls just before noon
Tuesday. Jason Hucks of Upper Mountain Road
was arrested two blocks from the scene. He told
police he ran into the house at 2818 Highland after
looking down to retrieve a cigarette. He was also
charged with aggravated unlicensed operation,
unreasonable speed, and unsafe lane change. Police
also filed an additional charge of disorderly conduct
after Hucks became disobedient while being treated
at the Medical Center.
DWI and leaving the scene of an accident after the
van he was driving allegedly hit a vacant house on
Highland Avenue in the Falls just before noon
Tuesday. Jason Hucks of Upper Mountain Road
was arrested two blocks from the scene. He told
police he ran into the house at 2818 Highland after
looking down to retrieve a cigarette. He was also
charged with aggravated unlicensed operation,
unreasonable speed, and unsafe lane change. Police
also filed an additional charge of disorderly conduct
after Hucks became disobedient while being treated
at the Medical Center.
MOTORCYCLE-DEER ACCIDENT
A 43 year old Town of Niagara man is in critical
condition following a motorcycle-deer accident
on Porter Road Monday night. Patrick Cummings
of Lockport Road was thrown from his bike when
the deer crossed the road in front of him. He was
taken to ECMC by Mercy Flight.
condition following a motorcycle-deer accident
on Porter Road Monday night. Patrick Cummings
of Lockport Road was thrown from his bike when
the deer crossed the road in front of him. He was
taken to ECMC by Mercy Flight.
DEMOCRATS FUND RAISER
The Lockport City Democratic Commitee is
sponsoring a Chiavetta's chicken barbecue
Thursday. It starts at 4 in the parking lot of
the UAW Hall at Walnut and Vine. It's take
out only and is $8.
sponsoring a Chiavetta's chicken barbecue
Thursday. It starts at 4 in the parking lot of
the UAW Hall at Walnut and Vine. It's take
out only and is $8.
MIDDLEPORT DAY OF PRAYER
The Middleport churches will be taking part in
tomorrow's National Day of Prayer. You're invited
to join them at noon Thursday at the Veterans
Monument on Park Avenue. A lunch will be served
afterwards at the Fire Hall for $3 and a donation to
the food pantry.
tomorrow's National Day of Prayer. You're invited
to join them at noon Thursday at the Veterans
Monument on Park Avenue. A lunch will be served
afterwards at the Fire Hall for $3 and a donation to
the food pantry.
STOLEN CAR
Two teens from the Falls were charged with stealing
a '94 Ford by Sheriff's deputies just after 1am today.
The two said they saw it parked on Main Street, running,
so they hopped in and drove it away. Sixteen year old
Thomas Pryor Junior of 9th Street told deputies
he had no license and had no idea who owned the
vehicle. His 18 year old passenger identified as
DeAndre Matthews of Jordan Gardens. They were
pulled over after allegedly running a stop sign at
Tuscorora and Blank Roads. They're being held
on $750 pre arraignment bail until they appear in
Town of Niagara Court tomorrow night. Falls police
were taking the stolen vehicle report when deputies
called to say they found the car.
a '94 Ford by Sheriff's deputies just after 1am today.
The two said they saw it parked on Main Street, running,
so they hopped in and drove it away. Sixteen year old
Thomas Pryor Junior of 9th Street told deputies
he had no license and had no idea who owned the
vehicle. His 18 year old passenger identified as
DeAndre Matthews of Jordan Gardens. They were
pulled over after allegedly running a stop sign at
Tuscorora and Blank Roads. They're being held
on $750 pre arraignment bail until they appear in
Town of Niagara Court tomorrow night. Falls police
were taking the stolen vehicle report when deputies
called to say they found the car.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
MARLEE MATLIN
"The Fonz" won't be speaking at next Thursday
"Parents & Partners" dinner in Niagara Falls.
The school district says he's been replaced by
Academy Award winning actress and activist
Marlee Matlin. She has guest starred on such
TV shows as "Desperate Housewives," "E-R,"
"Spin City" and "CSI-New York." The annual
dinner recognizes volunteers and partners
with district schools and will be held May 14
at Niagara Falls High School.
"Parents & Partners" dinner in Niagara Falls.
The school district says he's been replaced by
Academy Award winning actress and activist
Marlee Matlin. She has guest starred on such
TV shows as "Desperate Housewives," "E-R,"
"Spin City" and "CSI-New York." The annual
dinner recognizes volunteers and partners
with district schools and will be held May 14
at Niagara Falls High School.
LOCKPORT CITY HALL SECURITY
Lockport Mayor Mike Tucker's plan to
tighten up security at City Hall will be
on the agenda at tomorrow night's
Council meeting. It'll be sponsored
by Council President John Lombardi,
but an alternative proposal is being
offered by Councilmember Flora
McKenzie. She wants to install a
portable wall running from one side
of the Council chambers to the wall.
She said those having business with
the Court could enter through the doors
next to the Police Headquarters. She
said she's been getting a lot of calls
about the issue and people want to
be able to come into the building and
pay their bills and visit with neighbors
without standing in line and going
through a metal detector. The Mayor's
plan ..on the agenda for tomorrow night...
would pay a Buffalo company named
Linstar about $42,000 for an access
control system. Another $1,700 would
go to Twin City Glass in North Tonawanda
for "panic hardware," and almost $2,200
would provide for an access control system
for the elevators. The Council meets at 6pm
Wednesday.
tighten up security at City Hall will be
on the agenda at tomorrow night's
Council meeting. It'll be sponsored
by Council President John Lombardi,
but an alternative proposal is being
offered by Councilmember Flora
McKenzie. She wants to install a
portable wall running from one side
of the Council chambers to the wall.
She said those having business with
the Court could enter through the doors
next to the Police Headquarters. She
said she's been getting a lot of calls
about the issue and people want to
be able to come into the building and
pay their bills and visit with neighbors
without standing in line and going
through a metal detector. The Mayor's
plan ..on the agenda for tomorrow night...
would pay a Buffalo company named
Linstar about $42,000 for an access
control system. Another $1,700 would
go to Twin City Glass in North Tonawanda
for "panic hardware," and almost $2,200
would provide for an access control system
for the elevators. The Council meets at 6pm
Wednesday.
DELPHI
Senator Chuck Schumer said Monday General Motors
should buy the Delphi plants in Lockport and
Rochester and two others in Indiana and Michigan.
His remarks were made during a visit to Rochester.
GM and Delphi have talked about the idea but it
would have to be o-k'd by the Federal government
and Delphi's debt holders. The four plants are
Delphi's core facilities and suppliers of GM. Schumer
said their future would be stronger under GM and the
UAW had asked him to support the plan, He said
Federal auto czar Ed Montgomery was in favor.
should buy the Delphi plants in Lockport and
Rochester and two others in Indiana and Michigan.
His remarks were made during a visit to Rochester.
GM and Delphi have talked about the idea but it
would have to be o-k'd by the Federal government
and Delphi's debt holders. The four plants are
Delphi's core facilities and suppliers of GM. Schumer
said their future would be stronger under GM and the
UAW had asked him to support the plan, He said
Federal auto czar Ed Montgomery was in favor.
GILLIBRAND
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand was in Western
New York Monday. She pledged support
for the County's stimulus funding requests
during an economic roundtable discussion
in the morning at the Falls Conference Center.
Legislature Chairman Bill Ross presented her
with a booklet containing 169 proposed projects
totalling $338-million. Gillibrand said the
booklet looked fantastic and her office would
write letters of support for anything the County
applied for. She also said she supported including
Niagara Falls in the proposed high speed rail
line that would run from Western New York to
Albany.
New York Monday. She pledged support
for the County's stimulus funding requests
during an economic roundtable discussion
in the morning at the Falls Conference Center.
Legislature Chairman Bill Ross presented her
with a booklet containing 169 proposed projects
totalling $338-million. Gillibrand said the
booklet looked fantastic and her office would
write letters of support for anything the County
applied for. She also said she supported including
Niagara Falls in the proposed high speed rail
line that would run from Western New York to
Albany.
PLAYGROUND
Niagara Falls councilman Steve Fournier said
the more than two dozen people who spoke
last night on the Council's previous decision not
to back a proposed playground convinced him to
change his mind on the issue. The facility would
be on Portage Road next to the former South Junior
High School and Fournier said he would try to bring it
back for another vote. The land is owned by the
School District and the two teachers on the Council
abstained when the issue was defeated April 20.
Fournier's change of heart would mean it would
pass if it was brought back for another vote. The
Council also agreed to pay Rhiannon Kephart
$625,000 to settle a lawsuit stemming from a
botched drug raid in February 2005. Corporation
Council Craig Johnson said a flash-bang device
was tossed into a bedroom window and fell
on a bed. It caught fire an and individual was
burned as a result.
the more than two dozen people who spoke
last night on the Council's previous decision not
to back a proposed playground convinced him to
change his mind on the issue. The facility would
be on Portage Road next to the former South Junior
High School and Fournier said he would try to bring it
back for another vote. The land is owned by the
School District and the two teachers on the Council
abstained when the issue was defeated April 20.
Fournier's change of heart would mean it would
pass if it was brought back for another vote. The
Council also agreed to pay Rhiannon Kephart
$625,000 to settle a lawsuit stemming from a
botched drug raid in February 2005. Corporation
Council Craig Johnson said a flash-bang device
was tossed into a bedroom window and fell
on a bed. It caught fire an and individual was
burned as a result.
FOURNIER
Niagara Falls councilmember Steve Fournier didn't
say much to reporters last night night about his
weekend arrest. He said there was regret on the
whole situation in general and as he said, he was
in the wrong place at the wrong time. He said he
did not recall saying a lot of the things officers
said he did and he would have to let the judicial
system do it's thing. He said he could not say
anything more on the advice of his attorney. The
36 year old plead not guilty to resisting arrest and
disorderly conduct yesterday morning in City Court,
he'll be back there next week. The Friday night
episode at Bragg's Tavern was not discussed at
all during the Council meeting. Mayor Paul Dyster
said he was aware of the arrest as of Saturday morning
and he had faith in the operation of the justice
system but beyond that he could have no comment.
say much to reporters last night night about his
weekend arrest. He said there was regret on the
whole situation in general and as he said, he was
in the wrong place at the wrong time. He said he
did not recall saying a lot of the things officers
said he did and he would have to let the judicial
system do it's thing. He said he could not say
anything more on the advice of his attorney. The
36 year old plead not guilty to resisting arrest and
disorderly conduct yesterday morning in City Court,
he'll be back there next week. The Friday night
episode at Bragg's Tavern was not discussed at
all during the Council meeting. Mayor Paul Dyster
said he was aware of the arrest as of Saturday morning
and he had faith in the operation of the justice
system but beyond that he could have no comment.
PATERSON
The Governor's popularity continuing to fall.
A new Marist poll showed that 51% of the
respondents would rather have former Governor
Eliot Spitzer in charge than David Paterson.
Sixty-eight per cent said they disapprove
of the job he's doing on the economy and
67% thought the State was headed in the
wrong direction. Paterson announced a plan
yesterday to limit the year to year increases
in state spending to the average inflation rate
from the previous three years. He said state
spending grew on an average of 7.9% between
2002 and 2008...but if his cap had been in place
it would have been held to 2.6% each year
resulting in $17-billion less in spending.
A new Marist poll showed that 51% of the
respondents would rather have former Governor
Eliot Spitzer in charge than David Paterson.
Sixty-eight per cent said they disapprove
of the job he's doing on the economy and
67% thought the State was headed in the
wrong direction. Paterson announced a plan
yesterday to limit the year to year increases
in state spending to the average inflation rate
from the previous three years. He said state
spending grew on an average of 7.9% between
2002 and 2008...but if his cap had been in place
it would have been held to 2.6% each year
resulting in $17-billion less in spending.
OVERNIGHT DISTURBANCE
Three young men are facing charges after a
disturbance around 2:30 this morning on
Gooding Street in Lockport. Sixteen year
old Matthew Davis of 164 Church, twenty
year old Jason Spivey of 276 Hawley, and
21 year old Antoine Oliver of 30 Webb were
all charged with disorderly conduct. Oliver
also with obstructing governmental
administration. He allegedly tried to
interfere with the arrest of Davis. A
fourth man was not charged. Police
said the three were yelling threats and
obscenties and refused to stop.
disturbance around 2:30 this morning on
Gooding Street in Lockport. Sixteen year
old Matthew Davis of 164 Church, twenty
year old Jason Spivey of 276 Hawley, and
21 year old Antoine Oliver of 30 Webb were
all charged with disorderly conduct. Oliver
also with obstructing governmental
administration. He allegedly tried to
interfere with the arrest of Davis. A
fourth man was not charged. Police
said the three were yelling threats and
obscenties and refused to stop.
HANDGUN FOUND
An 88 year old Wheatfield man found a small
handgun last night while he was cutting his
lawn on Shawnee Road. He told deputies
it was lying on the front of his property. The
Sheriff's department said they checked the
weapon's serial number and it had no record.
handgun last night while he was cutting his
lawn on Shawnee Road. He told deputies
it was lying on the front of his property. The
Sheriff's department said they checked the
weapon's serial number and it had no record.
WAL MART
The Sheriff's Department says three people were
arrested following a purse snatching incident
around 10:30 Sunday night outside the Lockport
Wal Mart. Seventeen year old Paul Castleberry
of 371 East Union, and 18 year old Devon Klein and
20 year old Shane Klein..both of 111 East Avenue..
are all charged with second degree robbery. They
allegedly took the purse from a 61 year old woman
as she was leaving the store. She suffered abrasions
to her hands, knees, and leg. Her purse was
recovered in a nearby field. Twenty-nine year old
Joseph Rundio of Lockport was riding with his
girlfriend in the parking lot when the incident
occurred. He saw the victim crying in front of the
store with her packages on the ground and took
action. He chased one of the men as he was
running behind the store and tackled him and
held him until deputies arrived.
arrested following a purse snatching incident
around 10:30 Sunday night outside the Lockport
Wal Mart. Seventeen year old Paul Castleberry
of 371 East Union, and 18 year old Devon Klein and
20 year old Shane Klein..both of 111 East Avenue..
are all charged with second degree robbery. They
allegedly took the purse from a 61 year old woman
as she was leaving the store. She suffered abrasions
to her hands, knees, and leg. Her purse was
recovered in a nearby field. Twenty-nine year old
Joseph Rundio of Lockport was riding with his
girlfriend in the parking lot when the incident
occurred. He saw the victim crying in front of the
store with her packages on the ground and took
action. He chased one of the men as he was
running behind the store and tackled him and
held him until deputies arrived.
Monday, May 4, 2009
A-E-S
The Town of Somerset and the Barker School
District getting a big win Friday. The tax break
A-E-S Somerset received back in October 2006
was invalidated by the Appelate Division of State
Supreme Court. They ruled the 12 year payment
in lieu of taxes deal given to the company was
not supported by substantial evidence and said
the IDA could not explain why they had deviated
from their own policy. The ruling reversed an
ealier decision by State Supreme Court Judge
Richard Klock. It also allows the company to
reinstate it's challenges to their assessment.
The IDA can also challenge the ruling in the
State Court of Appeals. The decision to overturn
Klock's ruling was mainly based on a lack of
evidence supporting the need for the tax break.
The judges said AES never provided financial
statements to the IDA so they could determine
whether the tax break was needed.
District getting a big win Friday. The tax break
A-E-S Somerset received back in October 2006
was invalidated by the Appelate Division of State
Supreme Court. They ruled the 12 year payment
in lieu of taxes deal given to the company was
not supported by substantial evidence and said
the IDA could not explain why they had deviated
from their own policy. The ruling reversed an
ealier decision by State Supreme Court Judge
Richard Klock. It also allows the company to
reinstate it's challenges to their assessment.
The IDA can also challenge the ruling in the
State Court of Appeals. The decision to overturn
Klock's ruling was mainly based on a lack of
evidence supporting the need for the tax break.
The judges said AES never provided financial
statements to the IDA so they could determine
whether the tax break was needed.
LOCKPORT LOCKS AND CANAL CRUISES
Lockport Locks and Erie Canal Cruises begins
another season today. Owner Mike Murphy
says the Lockview V made it's way down the
Canal from North Tonawanda Friday and the
Lockview IV will do so tomorrow. The first
cruise is set for 12:30 today. The season runs
through October 25 and he estimates about
40,000 people will visit over the Summer.
Last year they came from 18 different countries.
He says tickets will be sold in Niagara Falls and
Buffalo this year. About 65 people work at the
attraction over the Summer. He also says you'll
notice they have rehabbed the facade of their
building on Market Street.
another season today. Owner Mike Murphy
says the Lockview V made it's way down the
Canal from North Tonawanda Friday and the
Lockview IV will do so tomorrow. The first
cruise is set for 12:30 today. The season runs
through October 25 and he estimates about
40,000 people will visit over the Summer.
Last year they came from 18 different countries.
He says tickets will be sold in Niagara Falls and
Buffalo this year. About 65 people work at the
attraction over the Summer. He also says you'll
notice they have rehabbed the facade of their
building on Market Street.
FOURNIER
It should be an interesting council session
in the Falls tonight. Lawmaker Steve Fournier
was arrested around 3am Saturday following a
run in with police at Bragg's Tavern. The 36
year old is charged with disorderly conduct and
resisting arrest. Police said he was intoxicated
and had to be subdued after lunging at Officer
Scott Warme and grabbing his throat. He also
allegedly made a racist comment. Fournier says
he was in the wrong place at the wrong time, that
he went into the bar to say goodnight to the owner
whose a good friend and got caught in the middle
of a fight. He says someone pushed him so he
pushed back and he didn't realize the person he
pushed was a police officer. Police said they went
into the bar looking for some people tied to a
disturbance outside the Ferry Avenue bar.
in the Falls tonight. Lawmaker Steve Fournier
was arrested around 3am Saturday following a
run in with police at Bragg's Tavern. The 36
year old is charged with disorderly conduct and
resisting arrest. Police said he was intoxicated
and had to be subdued after lunging at Officer
Scott Warme and grabbing his throat. He also
allegedly made a racist comment. Fournier says
he was in the wrong place at the wrong time, that
he went into the bar to say goodnight to the owner
whose a good friend and got caught in the middle
of a fight. He says someone pushed him so he
pushed back and he didn't realize the person he
pushed was a police officer. Police said they went
into the bar looking for some people tied to a
disturbance outside the Ferry Avenue bar.
WILSON STUDENT
The 16 year old student accused of bringing 52
morphine pills to Wilson High School has been
suspended for the remainder of the school
year and will likely be arrested. Sheriff Jim
Voutour said she could be charged with
misdemeanor possession of a controlled
substance or possibly criminal sale. The County
Drug Task Force has been assigned the case.
The girl said the pills belonged to her deceased
Mother and she brought them to school because
her classmates had been asking for them.
morphine pills to Wilson High School has been
suspended for the remainder of the school
year and will likely be arrested. Sheriff Jim
Voutour said she could be charged with
misdemeanor possession of a controlled
substance or possibly criminal sale. The County
Drug Task Force has been assigned the case.
The girl said the pills belonged to her deceased
Mother and she brought them to school because
her classmates had been asking for them.
NEWFANE FIRE/MARIJUANA
Investigators found at least 18 marijuana
plants after fire officials put out a grease
fire Saturday night at a home on Checkered
Tavern Road in Newfane. The plants were
between 4 & 8 inches tall and eqipped with
pots and lamps and were growing in the
basement and living room. The fire started
in the kitchen as two men were cookign and
spread to the second floor and roof. One
man was taken to ECMC with exttensive
burns on his hands and feet. The Sheriff's
Department said he had tried to put out the
fire himself and ran back into the burning
home when crews arrived. The County
Drug Task Force is trying to determine who
owned the plants and no arrests had been
made as of Sunday night.
plants after fire officials put out a grease
fire Saturday night at a home on Checkered
Tavern Road in Newfane. The plants were
between 4 & 8 inches tall and eqipped with
pots and lamps and were growing in the
basement and living room. The fire started
in the kitchen as two men were cookign and
spread to the second floor and roof. One
man was taken to ECMC with exttensive
burns on his hands and feet. The Sheriff's
Department said he had tried to put out the
fire himself and ran back into the burning
home when crews arrived. The County
Drug Task Force is trying to determine who
owned the plants and no arrests had been
made as of Sunday night.
FORMER LOCKPORT POLICE OFFICER PASSES
Former Lockport police officer Melvin Chausse
passed away last Friday at Buffalo General.
He was 71. Chausse was a policeman for
the City for 35 years and retired as a Captain
in 1995. He was a member of numerous
police organizations and also a cub scout
master for 17 years at Anna Merrit School
and a leader for the Police Explorer 10-4
group. Visitiation is from 4 till 9 tonight
at Prudden & Kandt. Services will be held
at 10am tomorrow at All Saints Parish at
76 Church Street. He'll be buried in Saint
Patricks Cemetery. Memorials should be
sent to DeSales or the American Diabetes
Association in Amherst.
passed away last Friday at Buffalo General.
He was 71. Chausse was a policeman for
the City for 35 years and retired as a Captain
in 1995. He was a member of numerous
police organizations and also a cub scout
master for 17 years at Anna Merrit School
and a leader for the Police Explorer 10-4
group. Visitiation is from 4 till 9 tonight
at Prudden & Kandt. Services will be held
at 10am tomorrow at All Saints Parish at
76 Church Street. He'll be buried in Saint
Patricks Cemetery. Memorials should be
sent to DeSales or the American Diabetes
Association in Amherst.
ROBBED WHILE IN CUSTODY
A 35 year old Town of Lockport woman told
Sheriff's deputies Saturday her mobile home
on Cardinal Drive was burglarzied while she
was in the custody of State Police. Charlene
Lowe had been arrested on a menacing
charge at 7 pm Friday and released at 1:30pm
Saturday. She arrived home to find that two
computers, a cell phone, and cigarettes had
been stolen. The Sheriff's department said
entry was made through an unsecure bedroom
window. Lowe told deputies she suspected
the man who had her arrested Friday...and his
brother were responsible...but they denied it
and deputies found nothing when they let
them inspect their home.
Sheriff's deputies Saturday her mobile home
on Cardinal Drive was burglarzied while she
was in the custody of State Police. Charlene
Lowe had been arrested on a menacing
charge at 7 pm Friday and released at 1:30pm
Saturday. She arrived home to find that two
computers, a cell phone, and cigarettes had
been stolen. The Sheriff's department said
entry was made through an unsecure bedroom
window. Lowe told deputies she suspected
the man who had her arrested Friday...and his
brother were responsible...but they denied it
and deputies found nothing when they let
them inspect their home.
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