The two teens accused of the brutal murder
of a counselor at a group home in Lockport
back in June were arraigned yesterday in
County Court. Eighteen year old Anthony
Allen is facing three counts each of first
and second degree murder. Because of his
age, 17 year old Robert Thousand with three
counts of second degree murder. DA Michael
Violante said no plea deals would be offered.
He called it one of the most horrific murders
had had seen in his career. They are accused
of beating 24 year old Renee Greco to death
June 8 at the Avenue House. Police say they
killed her in an attempt to cover up Allen's
earlier theft of $160 from a lock box in the
home. The two were arraigned before Judge
Sara Sheldon Sperezza, but the case will be
heard by Judge Matt Murphy. The next court
date is August 20, the two are being held
without bail.
Friday, August 7, 2009
MIDDLEPORT JOGGER STRUCK
A 26 year old Middleport man was hit by a car
just before 9am yesterday while jogging along
Freeman Road. Jason Pawloski is in critical
condition in the Intensive Care Unit at ECMC.
He was taken to the hospital by Mercy Flight
with leg and facial injuries, Deputies say Pawloski
stepped into the path of a car driven by Victor
Henley, also of Middleport. Pawloski was
using an I-pod and apparently could not hear
traffic.
just before 9am yesterday while jogging along
Freeman Road. Jason Pawloski is in critical
condition in the Intensive Care Unit at ECMC.
He was taken to the hospital by Mercy Flight
with leg and facial injuries, Deputies say Pawloski
stepped into the path of a car driven by Victor
Henley, also of Middleport. Pawloski was
using an I-pod and apparently could not hear
traffic.
COUNTY FAIR CONTINUES
Over 60 animals will be up for bid by the
general public tonight at the 35th annual
meat auction at the County Fair. They
include beef, lambs and swine raised by
4-H members. The bidding starts at 6:15
in the Show Ring. Admission to the Fair
is just a dollar between 5 & 9 tonight. The
entertainment includes a karoake contest
with an open microphone from 6:30 till
9:30, the Hot Country Line Dancers at 7,
and Johnny Cash impersonator Billy D
at 8. There'll be another laser light show
at 9:30. The Buffalo Zoomobile will be
at the Fairgrounds this afternoon starting at
1. There's a "Play With Your Food" contest
for kids at 3.
general public tonight at the 35th annual
meat auction at the County Fair. They
include beef, lambs and swine raised by
4-H members. The bidding starts at 6:15
in the Show Ring. Admission to the Fair
is just a dollar between 5 & 9 tonight. The
entertainment includes a karoake contest
with an open microphone from 6:30 till
9:30, the Hot Country Line Dancers at 7,
and Johnny Cash impersonator Billy D
at 8. There'll be another laser light show
at 9:30. The Buffalo Zoomobile will be
at the Fairgrounds this afternoon starting at
1. There's a "Play With Your Food" contest
for kids at 3.
PATERSON TO COME TO LOCKPORT
Governor David Paterson is expected to be in
Lockport a week from tomorrow. Officials tell
WLVL he'll be the guest speaker at the first
annual Leadership Luncheon being organzied
by the First AME Church of Lockport and the
Niagara Organizing Alliance for Hope, or NOAH.
The "Building A Strong Community" luncheon
will be at the Dale Association. The donation
is $25. Call 433-5197 or 228-8917 for tickets.
Lockport a week from tomorrow. Officials tell
WLVL he'll be the guest speaker at the first
annual Leadership Luncheon being organzied
by the First AME Church of Lockport and the
Niagara Organizing Alliance for Hope, or NOAH.
The "Building A Strong Community" luncheon
will be at the Dale Association. The donation
is $25. Call 433-5197 or 228-8917 for tickets.
GOOD NEIGHBOR DAVE HAS SURGERY
WLVL's "Good Neighbor Dave" underwent
surgery yesterday to remove a tumor from
his pituitary gland. Doctors say it'll be a few
days before they know if it was malignant.
They say he took the surgery well and he
will be in the intensive care unit until
Saturday. He's at Millard Fillmore Gates
at 3 Gates Circle in Buffalo.
surgery yesterday to remove a tumor from
his pituitary gland. Doctors say it'll be a few
days before they know if it was malignant.
They say he took the surgery well and he
will be in the intensive care unit until
Saturday. He's at Millard Fillmore Gates
at 3 Gates Circle in Buffalo.
WHEATFIELD
The Budget Director in Wheatfield says he will
file the Town's annual financial report with
Albany by next week. Lawmakers were recently
warned in a letter from the State Comptroller
the Town could face negative consequences
if they didn't get it in. It was due April 1, but
was held up because the Town went without
a budget director between January and March.
file the Town's annual financial report with
Albany by next week. Lawmakers were recently
warned in a letter from the State Comptroller
the Town could face negative consequences
if they didn't get it in. It was due April 1, but
was held up because the Town went without
a budget director between January and March.
TOWN OF NIAGARA UNHAPPY WITH SPCA
The Town of Niagara is also unhappy with the
services provided by the County SPCA. Town
Clerk Sylvia Virtuoso told lawmakers Thursday
she is looking into alternatives to having them
perform their animal control. She said she didn't
think it was feasible to renew the contract for
three years and pay this kind of money when
they're not doing their job whatsoever. They
paid the SPCA almost $21,000 this year.
services provided by the County SPCA. Town
Clerk Sylvia Virtuoso told lawmakers Thursday
she is looking into alternatives to having them
perform their animal control. She said she didn't
think it was feasible to renew the contract for
three years and pay this kind of money when
they're not doing their job whatsoever. They
paid the SPCA almost $21,000 this year.
FARNHAM
A State Supreme Court Judge yesterday upheld
the elections petitions filed by County Lawmaker
Gerry Farnham. Judge Frank Caruso said Farnham
does live on Hinman Road in the 7th District. The
Board of Elections came to the same conclusion
earlier in the week. Three Democrats had maintained
he no longer lived in his district because he bought
a farm on Saunders Settlement Road in Cambria, but
Farnham was able to show his family bought it
for their farming business and that he still lived
on Hinman Road.
the elections petitions filed by County Lawmaker
Gerry Farnham. Judge Frank Caruso said Farnham
does live on Hinman Road in the 7th District. The
Board of Elections came to the same conclusion
earlier in the week. Three Democrats had maintained
he no longer lived in his district because he bought
a farm on Saunders Settlement Road in Cambria, but
Farnham was able to show his family bought it
for their farming business and that he still lived
on Hinman Road.
BENEFIT FOR DECEASED FIREFIGHTER
A Chiavetta's chicken barbecue will be one
of the offerings Saturday at a benefit for
former Wrights Corners fireman Tim Kelly.
Organzier Dawn Henning says the dinner
will be available between 2 & 6 at the firehall.
The actual benefit runs from 1 till 7 and
includes a basket raffle, door prizes, a
50-50 split, and a bake sale. The band
Reunion will play throughout the day.
Between 60 & 70 baskets will be up for
bids and there'll be some large items
including a two or three man tent, a
tool basket, and gift certificates in large
amounts for massages and other things.
Tim Kelly passed away last month and
was a member of the Fire Company for
40 years and was active until he got
sick. He was also the head of maintenance
at the former Lockport Mall for 20 years.
Saturday's event is meant to clear away
medical bills and funeral expenses.
of the offerings Saturday at a benefit for
former Wrights Corners fireman Tim Kelly.
Organzier Dawn Henning says the dinner
will be available between 2 & 6 at the firehall.
The actual benefit runs from 1 till 7 and
includes a basket raffle, door prizes, a
50-50 split, and a bake sale. The band
Reunion will play throughout the day.
Between 60 & 70 baskets will be up for
bids and there'll be some large items
including a two or three man tent, a
tool basket, and gift certificates in large
amounts for massages and other things.
Tim Kelly passed away last month and
was a member of the Fire Company for
40 years and was active until he got
sick. He was also the head of maintenance
at the former Lockport Mall for 20 years.
Saturday's event is meant to clear away
medical bills and funeral expenses.
DAYTIME BURGLARY IN TOWN OF LOCKPORT
Two large flat screen T-V's were taken Thursday
during a daytime burglary in the Town of Lockport.
A 23 year old woman living on Dysinger Road told
Sheriff's deputies a $400 36-inch flat screen...and a
$500 40-inch flat screen were taken between 2:30
and 6:30pm. She said her front door, and a front
window were open when she got home. A partial
boot print was found on the couch below the window
along with a small screwdriver. The victim said the
screwdriver was hers and it was taken for
evidence.
during a daytime burglary in the Town of Lockport.
A 23 year old woman living on Dysinger Road told
Sheriff's deputies a $400 36-inch flat screen...and a
$500 40-inch flat screen were taken between 2:30
and 6:30pm. She said her front door, and a front
window were open when she got home. A partial
boot print was found on the couch below the window
along with a small screwdriver. The victim said the
screwdriver was hers and it was taken for
evidence.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
TWO TEENS ARRAIGNED
The two teens accused of klling a 24 year old
youth counselor at a group home in Lockport
were arraigned in County Court Thursday before
Judge Sara Sheldon Sperezza. She denied bail
for 18 year old Anthony Allen and 17 year old
Robert Thousand and set their next court date
for August 20. Sperezza said she was handling
the arraignment for Judge Matt Murphy.
youth counselor at a group home in Lockport
were arraigned in County Court Thursday before
Judge Sara Sheldon Sperezza. She denied bail
for 18 year old Anthony Allen and 17 year old
Robert Thousand and set their next court date
for August 20. Sperezza said she was handling
the arraignment for Judge Matt Murphy.
SLAUGHTER SAYS NO TOWN MEETINGS
Congresswoman Louise Slaughter said yesterday
she doesn't plan on holding any Town Hall meetings
on health care during the August recess. She said
she did not want to give a forum to people who are
coming in to scream and yell. She said opposition
to the health care bill was being orchestrated by
Republicans. She said she would talk to anybody
on the street or do radio shows but was not going
to have a forum where people are going to be
scared to death. Slaughter was at the new Public
Safety Building in the Falls to announce the streets
that'll be paved with stimulus money and to tout
the five additional police officers that'll also be
hired. She also spoke about Cash For Clunkers...
saying the energy bill passed last term had
$25-billion in it to retool American auto plants
to build fuel efficient cars and the cash for the
program was coming out of it. She admitted she
was a bit skeptical about the idea at first.
she doesn't plan on holding any Town Hall meetings
on health care during the August recess. She said
she did not want to give a forum to people who are
coming in to scream and yell. She said opposition
to the health care bill was being orchestrated by
Republicans. She said she would talk to anybody
on the street or do radio shows but was not going
to have a forum where people are going to be
scared to death. Slaughter was at the new Public
Safety Building in the Falls to announce the streets
that'll be paved with stimulus money and to tout
the five additional police officers that'll also be
hired. She also spoke about Cash For Clunkers...
saying the energy bill passed last term had
$25-billion in it to retool American auto plants
to build fuel efficient cars and the cash for the
program was coming out of it. She admitted she
was a bit skeptical about the idea at first.
COUNTY FAIR
Attendance was up Wednesday for the first day
of the County Fair. Interim Director Paul Lehman
said they thought it was almost double last year.
He said last night's free admission certainly
helped, that they were about on par with the
paid admissions from the previous year by
5pm when they stopped charging to get in.
Former Sabre Rob Ray talked about problems
facing the dairy industry before about 750 people
at the Farm City Breakfast. The popular
chicken barbecue is happening today between
noon and 6. The afternoon entertainment includes
the Royalettes baton twirlers and Buffalo and
Brandy. A schedule change has the Barker Band
playing tonight at 7. There'll also be music tonight
by the Brotherhood Band at 8 and a laser light
show at 9:30.
of the County Fair. Interim Director Paul Lehman
said they thought it was almost double last year.
He said last night's free admission certainly
helped, that they were about on par with the
paid admissions from the previous year by
5pm when they stopped charging to get in.
Former Sabre Rob Ray talked about problems
facing the dairy industry before about 750 people
at the Farm City Breakfast. The popular
chicken barbecue is happening today between
noon and 6. The afternoon entertainment includes
the Royalettes baton twirlers and Buffalo and
Brandy. A schedule change has the Barker Band
playing tonight at 7. There'll also be music tonight
by the Brotherhood Band at 8 and a laser light
show at 9:30.
NEWFANE
A resident of that burned out apartment building
in Newfane was charged with obstructing
firefighter operations Tuesday after he refused to
leave the area. William Meyer was found walking
down the back stairway just after 4:30am Tuesday.
Deputies were there because the fire that had been
extinguished Monday night had reignited. They said
Meyer was highly agitated because his stuff was in
the building.
in Newfane was charged with obstructing
firefighter operations Tuesday after he refused to
leave the area. William Meyer was found walking
down the back stairway just after 4:30am Tuesday.
Deputies were there because the fire that had been
extinguished Monday night had reignited. They said
Meyer was highly agitated because his stuff was in
the building.
NEW FEES
The cost of driving will go up next month when
increases in registration and license fees go into
effect. It'll cost 25% more to register your
vehicle or renew your license starting September
first. The average registration fee will go from
$44 to $55. The standard eight year license will
go from $50 to $62.50. Another gotcha is waiting
in the wings. The State will issue new reflectorized
license plates next April that'll cost $25, a $10
increase.
increases in registration and license fees go into
effect. It'll cost 25% more to register your
vehicle or renew your license starting September
first. The average registration fee will go from
$44 to $55. The standard eight year license will
go from $50 to $62.50. Another gotcha is waiting
in the wings. The State will issue new reflectorized
license plates next April that'll cost $25, a $10
increase.
LOCKPORT CITY COUNCIL
Lock City Metals plans to move to 570 West Avenue
this Fall after the City Council last night awarded
them a special use permit to do so. The metal
recycling company is currently on Ohio Street.
No one spoke at a public hearing on the issue.
Owner Nigel Martin said they would start working
on the move in September or October but they
don't expect to operate out of their new location
till January. Mayor Mike Tucker said he agreed
with comments made by a member of the
community during the public comment session.
Doralynn Marshall was upset three city court
offices are going to be built in a section of the
buildings lobby. Tucker said the City is obligated
to share 51 per cent of the building with the courts.
The cost of construction will be paid for by the
State and work should start soon.
this Fall after the City Council last night awarded
them a special use permit to do so. The metal
recycling company is currently on Ohio Street.
No one spoke at a public hearing on the issue.
Owner Nigel Martin said they would start working
on the move in September or October but they
don't expect to operate out of their new location
till January. Mayor Mike Tucker said he agreed
with comments made by a member of the
community during the public comment session.
Doralynn Marshall was upset three city court
offices are going to be built in a section of the
buildings lobby. Tucker said the City is obligated
to share 51 per cent of the building with the courts.
The cost of construction will be paid for by the
State and work should start soon.
WEAPON FOUND
A Ransomville man telling the Sheriff's
Department yesterday his wife found a gun
on their front lawn while cutting the grass.
Sixty-five year old Paul Pinkney of Porter
Center Road said his wife thought it was a
toy at first, but their 30 year old son checked
it and found it to be real. He pulled the magazine
from the gun and cleared the chamber and
then called the Sheriff's Department. They
entered it's serial number into a state database
but there were no hits.
Department yesterday his wife found a gun
on their front lawn while cutting the grass.
Sixty-five year old Paul Pinkney of Porter
Center Road said his wife thought it was a
toy at first, but their 30 year old son checked
it and found it to be real. He pulled the magazine
from the gun and cleared the chamber and
then called the Sheriff's Department. They
entered it's serial number into a state database
but there were no hits.
FALLS WANTS DISMISSAL OF CHARGES
State Supreme Court Judge Ralph Boneillo
said Tuesday he would issue a ruling..possibly
within the next 30 days..after the City of Niagara
Falls asked him to dismiss most of the
allegations contained in the lawsuit filed in 2003
by the so-called Falls Six. The workers, Joe
Paulk, Emmet Cox, Richard Hill, Bill Wilson,
Bruce Palmer, and Hugh Leftwich..alledge
they were subjected to a pattern of discrimination
while working in the Department of Public Works.
The City says many of them do not fall within a
90 day statue of limitations time frame from when
the original notice of claim was filed. Settlement
negotiations fell apart in March and are not expected
to continue until after Boneillo issues his ruling. The
attorney for the six..Richard Wyssling...said the two
sides were not even close. He said the city was
talking five figures but he wants something in the
seven figure range. The original claim has twice been
amended to include more alleged acts of discrimination.
said Tuesday he would issue a ruling..possibly
within the next 30 days..after the City of Niagara
Falls asked him to dismiss most of the
allegations contained in the lawsuit filed in 2003
by the so-called Falls Six. The workers, Joe
Paulk, Emmet Cox, Richard Hill, Bill Wilson,
Bruce Palmer, and Hugh Leftwich..alledge
they were subjected to a pattern of discrimination
while working in the Department of Public Works.
The City says many of them do not fall within a
90 day statue of limitations time frame from when
the original notice of claim was filed. Settlement
negotiations fell apart in March and are not expected
to continue until after Boneillo issues his ruling. The
attorney for the six..Richard Wyssling...said the two
sides were not even close. He said the city was
talking five figures but he wants something in the
seven figure range. The original claim has twice been
amended to include more alleged acts of discrimination.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
NEWFANE APARTMENT FIRE
A fire in a 12 unit apartment complex in Newfane
Monday night and Tuesday is believed to have
been started when a tenant plugged an air
conditioner into an overloaded power strip and
then pushed a couch over the top of it. The
blaze was first extinguished around 7pm Monday
and then it flared up again around 4:30 Tuesday
morning. The building is at 2991 Lockport Olcott
Road across from the former Rib House. County
Fire Co-ordinator Jim Volkosh says firefighters
were able to contain it two apartments Monday
night....but after they left a small pocket of fire
must have continued to burn undetected. He
said that was easy because the building had
been added onto many times and it had numerous
roofs and walls. Tuesday's blaze destroyed the
entire roof and about six more apartments. A
section of Lockport Olcott Road was closed for
five hours Monday night and for about seven
hours Tuesday. Newfane Building Inspector
Doug Nankey said the structure is owned by
Ernie Heineman of Alexander. He had been
fixing it up after buying it out of bankruptcy
in January 2006. The Ladies Auxillary of
the Olcott Fire Company is collecting donations
for the dozen families affected. President Kim
Miller said they're looking for childrens and
adult clothing, gift cards for supermarkets and
Wal-Mart, and monetary help. Everything
but the cards and cash can be left off at the
Fire Hall at 1691 Lockport Olcott Road. She
said they would try to have someone at the
hall till 7pm each night this week, but if no one
is there they can be left off at a shed North of
the Hall. Other donations should be mailed
with "RELEIF FUND" marked on the
envelope. The zip code is 14126.
Monday night and Tuesday is believed to have
been started when a tenant plugged an air
conditioner into an overloaded power strip and
then pushed a couch over the top of it. The
blaze was first extinguished around 7pm Monday
and then it flared up again around 4:30 Tuesday
morning. The building is at 2991 Lockport Olcott
Road across from the former Rib House. County
Fire Co-ordinator Jim Volkosh says firefighters
were able to contain it two apartments Monday
night....but after they left a small pocket of fire
must have continued to burn undetected. He
said that was easy because the building had
been added onto many times and it had numerous
roofs and walls. Tuesday's blaze destroyed the
entire roof and about six more apartments. A
section of Lockport Olcott Road was closed for
five hours Monday night and for about seven
hours Tuesday. Newfane Building Inspector
Doug Nankey said the structure is owned by
Ernie Heineman of Alexander. He had been
fixing it up after buying it out of bankruptcy
in January 2006. The Ladies Auxillary of
the Olcott Fire Company is collecting donations
for the dozen families affected. President Kim
Miller said they're looking for childrens and
adult clothing, gift cards for supermarkets and
Wal-Mart, and monetary help. Everything
but the cards and cash can be left off at the
Fire Hall at 1691 Lockport Olcott Road. She
said they would try to have someone at the
hall till 7pm each night this week, but if no one
is there they can be left off at a shed North of
the Hall. Other donations should be mailed
with "RELEIF FUND" marked on the
envelope. The zip code is 14126.
COUNTY FAIR OPENS TODAY
Former Sabre Rob Ray was the guest speaker
at this morning's Farm-City Breakfast kicking
off the County Fair. Todays activities include
a variety of animal shows, and for the kids,
there's a bubblegum contest at 2 and a
chalk festival at 4. Admission to the Fair is
free after 5pm today. The CountyLegislature
used $6,000 of casino money to pay for the
admissions. Tonight's fun includes music
by the Rock It Party band at 6, a tractor
parade at 7, and comedian Chris Johnson
at 7:30. The Fair continues on Lake avenue in
Lockport till Sunday.
at this morning's Farm-City Breakfast kicking
off the County Fair. Todays activities include
a variety of animal shows, and for the kids,
there's a bubblegum contest at 2 and a
chalk festival at 4. Admission to the Fair is
free after 5pm today. The CountyLegislature
used $6,000 of casino money to pay for the
admissions. Tonight's fun includes music
by the Rock It Party band at 6, a tractor
parade at 7, and comedian Chris Johnson
at 7:30. The Fair continues on Lake avenue in
Lockport till Sunday.
CAR BREAK-IN'S IN THE FALLS
Police in the Falls are investigating a rash of
car break-in's. Thieves are mainly targeting
tourists in the parking lots of popular
restaurants along the Boulevard, hotels
in the South end, and attractions. There's
been a spike in break-in's near the new Snow
Park on Second Street, an area that had
previously been relatively break-in free.
Police say 35 GPS systems were stolen
between June 1-July 19. Cash was taken in
14 break-in's, random electronics in 42 others,
and clothing in 14 incidents.
car break-in's. Thieves are mainly targeting
tourists in the parking lots of popular
restaurants along the Boulevard, hotels
in the South end, and attractions. There's
been a spike in break-in's near the new Snow
Park on Second Street, an area that had
previously been relatively break-in free.
Police say 35 GPS systems were stolen
between June 1-July 19. Cash was taken in
14 break-in's, random electronics in 42 others,
and clothing in 14 incidents.
DAIRY FARMERS GET HELP
The Senate passed an amendment to the Agriculture
spending bill yesterday that gives the Farm Service
Administration $350-million to help struggling
New York dairy farmers. Senator Chuck Schumer
called it an important second step after Agriculture
Secretary Tom Vilsack last week increased the price
paid for nonfat dry milk and cheese. Schumer said
temporarily raising the price for them will increase
the price that dairy farmers receive for their milk.
spending bill yesterday that gives the Farm Service
Administration $350-million to help struggling
New York dairy farmers. Senator Chuck Schumer
called it an important second step after Agriculture
Secretary Tom Vilsack last week increased the price
paid for nonfat dry milk and cheese. Schumer said
temporarily raising the price for them will increase
the price that dairy farmers receive for their milk.
NO CHARGES FILED
Lockport Police say no charges will be filed
in an accident that killed an 83 year old man
July 25. Willard Schnell was taken to ENH-Lockport
after he was ejected from his bicycle and struck
his head on the pavement near Lincolnshire
and Woodbury Drives. Police say Schnell
was thrown from his bike after his bicycle
tire struck the rear tire of an electric scooter
being operated by a juvenile. The juveniles
name will not be released. Police said there
was no sign of foul play and there will be no
charges filed.
in an accident that killed an 83 year old man
July 25. Willard Schnell was taken to ENH-Lockport
after he was ejected from his bicycle and struck
his head on the pavement near Lincolnshire
and Woodbury Drives. Police say Schnell
was thrown from his bike after his bicycle
tire struck the rear tire of an electric scooter
being operated by a juvenile. The juveniles
name will not be released. Police said there
was no sign of foul play and there will be no
charges filed.
JAGOW HONORED
County Clerk Wayne Jagow was recently awarded
the "lifetime achievement" award by the New York
State Association of County Clerks. The presentation
was made during their annual conference in Alexandria
Bay. It's the highest honor they award to a county
clerk. Jagow has served in numerous state association
capacities. He was the President of the Association
in 2005. He received the "Clerk of the Year" award in
2006.
the "lifetime achievement" award by the New York
State Association of County Clerks. The presentation
was made during their annual conference in Alexandria
Bay. It's the highest honor they award to a county
clerk. Jagow has served in numerous state association
capacities. He was the President of the Association
in 2005. He received the "Clerk of the Year" award in
2006.
BOARD OF ELECTIONS
The County Board of Elections denied a
challenge Tuesday to the elections petitions
filed by County lawmaker Gerry Farnham.
Three Democrats had complained he did
not live in the district he represents. State
Supreme Court judge Ralph Boneillo is slated
to rule on the same issue tomorrow in the
Falls. The Board also ruled petitions filed
by Fifth District legislature candidate
Vincent Mameli to run on the Democratic
line were invalid because they did not
contain enough signatures and he is not
a registered Democrat. He'll still be on the
Republican, Independence, and Conservative
lines as he tries to replace outgoing
representative Sean O'Connor.
challenge Tuesday to the elections petitions
filed by County lawmaker Gerry Farnham.
Three Democrats had complained he did
not live in the district he represents. State
Supreme Court judge Ralph Boneillo is slated
to rule on the same issue tomorrow in the
Falls. The Board also ruled petitions filed
by Fifth District legislature candidate
Vincent Mameli to run on the Democratic
line were invalid because they did not
contain enough signatures and he is not
a registered Democrat. He'll still be on the
Republican, Independence, and Conservative
lines as he tries to replace outgoing
representative Sean O'Connor.
CRITICAL CONDITION
The 7 year old girl involved in Monday's near
drowning incident on Homeyer Road in Wheatfield
is still in intensive care at Buffalo's Womens and
Childrens Hospital. Michaela Polak is in critical
condition. The 9 year old boy, Eddy Jones of
Buffalo, was released from the same hospital
yesterday. The two nearly drowned when they
bumped heads after jumping into the swimming pool
at the same time.
drowning incident on Homeyer Road in Wheatfield
is still in intensive care at Buffalo's Womens and
Childrens Hospital. Michaela Polak is in critical
condition. The 9 year old boy, Eddy Jones of
Buffalo, was released from the same hospital
yesterday. The two nearly drowned when they
bumped heads after jumping into the swimming pool
at the same time.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
APARTMENT BUILDING FIRE
Five fire companies that worked to put out a
blaze last night in a 12 unit apartment complex
in Newfane were called back aeround 4:30 this
morning when the blaze rekindled. The building
is at 2991 Lockport Olcott Road across the
street from the former Rib House. County Fire
Co-ordinator Jim Volkosh says the first blaze
happened around 6:45 Monday night in apartment
three on the first floor. Ir quickly spread to the
apartment above it. The blaze was essentially
confined to those two units but sometime
overnight a small pocket rekindled. He said
it was easy to miss because of the construction
of the building. It had been added onto several
times and there were multiple roofs, multiple
ceilings and in some concealed space itr either
started up again or continued to burn until it
was notcied this morning. It damaged the
entire roof and probably another five or six
apartments. He said it would not surprise him
if the Town of Newfane Building Inspector
ordered an immediate demoliton. Doug
Nankey deemed it temporarily uninhabitable
after the first fire last night and the Red Cross
was helping all the residents. The cause of the
initial fire was not determined Monday night.
Three firefighters were taken to ENH-Newfane
suffering from heatr exhaustion. A section of
Lockport Olcott Road was closed for five hours
Monday night and the section between Hatter and
McKee was closed down this morning.
blaze last night in a 12 unit apartment complex
in Newfane were called back aeround 4:30 this
morning when the blaze rekindled. The building
is at 2991 Lockport Olcott Road across the
street from the former Rib House. County Fire
Co-ordinator Jim Volkosh says the first blaze
happened around 6:45 Monday night in apartment
three on the first floor. Ir quickly spread to the
apartment above it. The blaze was essentially
confined to those two units but sometime
overnight a small pocket rekindled. He said
it was easy to miss because of the construction
of the building. It had been added onto several
times and there were multiple roofs, multiple
ceilings and in some concealed space itr either
started up again or continued to burn until it
was notcied this morning. It damaged the
entire roof and probably another five or six
apartments. He said it would not surprise him
if the Town of Newfane Building Inspector
ordered an immediate demoliton. Doug
Nankey deemed it temporarily uninhabitable
after the first fire last night and the Red Cross
was helping all the residents. The cause of the
initial fire was not determined Monday night.
Three firefighters were taken to ENH-Newfane
suffering from heatr exhaustion. A section of
Lockport Olcott Road was closed for five hours
Monday night and the section between Hatter and
McKee was closed down this morning.
NEWFANE DONATIONS
The Ladies Auxillary of the Olcott Fire Company
is collectingf donations for the families involved.
President Kim Miller says they need children and
adult clothing, gift cards for grocery stores and
Wal Mart. Donations can be taken to a shed
North of the Fire Hall. Monetary and gift card
donations can be sent to the Fire Hall at
1691 Lockport Olcott Road in Olcott. Mark the
envelope with "RELIEF FUND." She said they
are going to try to have a person at the Fire Hall
till 7pm each night this week, but if there's no
one there clothing and such can be left near
the shed.
is collectingf donations for the families involved.
President Kim Miller says they need children and
adult clothing, gift cards for grocery stores and
Wal Mart. Donations can be taken to a shed
North of the Fire Hall. Monetary and gift card
donations can be sent to the Fire Hall at
1691 Lockport Olcott Road in Olcott. Mark the
envelope with "RELIEF FUND." She said they
are going to try to have a person at the Fire Hall
till 7pm each night this week, but if there's no
one there clothing and such can be left near
the shed.
POOL ACCIDENT IN WHEATFIELD
Two youngsters are at Buffalo's Women and
Childrens Hospital following an accident in a
backyard pool in Wheatfield around 3pm
Monday. Sheriff Jim Voutour tells WLVL a
year old girl from Wheatfield and an 8 year old
boy from Buffalo apparently both jumped into the pool
at 2833 Homeyer Road at the same time. He said it
appeared to be an accident and the mom was
right near the pool. She heard splashing and
yelling and when it got very quiet she turned and
saw they were at the bottom. Voutour says they
speculate they bumped heads but no-one actually
saw it happen. The mother immediately jumped
in and called for neighors to help. They tried to
resusicate them and the Saint Johnsburg Fire
Company was there within 3 minutes. The 7
year old girl was initially taken to DeGraff and later
transferred to Women and Childrens. The 8
year old boy wa staken diretcly to the same
hospital. Voutour says he was doing very well
last night and was just being held for observation.
The girl was identified as Michaela Polak of
Wheatfield. The boy is Eddy Gray of Buffalo.
He's a student of the mother, Tracy Polak of
2833 Homeyer Road.
Childrens Hospital following an accident in a
backyard pool in Wheatfield around 3pm
Monday. Sheriff Jim Voutour tells WLVL a
year old girl from Wheatfield and an 8 year old
boy from Buffalo apparently both jumped into the pool
at 2833 Homeyer Road at the same time. He said it
appeared to be an accident and the mom was
right near the pool. She heard splashing and
yelling and when it got very quiet she turned and
saw they were at the bottom. Voutour says they
speculate they bumped heads but no-one actually
saw it happen. The mother immediately jumped
in and called for neighors to help. They tried to
resusicate them and the Saint Johnsburg Fire
Company was there within 3 minutes. The 7
year old girl was initially taken to DeGraff and later
transferred to Women and Childrens. The 8
year old boy wa staken diretcly to the same
hospital. Voutour says he was doing very well
last night and was just being held for observation.
The girl was identified as Michaela Polak of
Wheatfield. The boy is Eddy Gray of Buffalo.
He's a student of the mother, Tracy Polak of
2833 Homeyer Road.
NCCC CULINARY ARTS INSTITUTE
N-C-C-C's Culinary Arts Institute will apparently
not be in the Crowne Plaza in the Falls. Collge
President James Klyczek told the school's board
of diretcors Monday they have an oral agreement
with the Cordish Corporation to use about
70,000 square feet of space on the second floor
of the vacant Rainbow Center Mall. He said the
school has had two meetings in Baltimore and
another is planned for later this month in New
York City. It'll be attended by representatives
from the City and County, Empire State
Development and USA Niagara. Any deal will
have to involve the County owning a piece of the
mall. Klyczek said it would cost about $15.2-million,
about $2-million more than the spot at the Crowne
Plaza. He said Cordish has expressed a willingness
to change the terms of their long term lease with
the City. He said the project may be eligable for
federal stimulus dollars and that Cordish plans to
convert the remainder of the mall into an entertainment
complex.
not be in the Crowne Plaza in the Falls. Collge
President James Klyczek told the school's board
of diretcors Monday they have an oral agreement
with the Cordish Corporation to use about
70,000 square feet of space on the second floor
of the vacant Rainbow Center Mall. He said the
school has had two meetings in Baltimore and
another is planned for later this month in New
York City. It'll be attended by representatives
from the City and County, Empire State
Development and USA Niagara. Any deal will
have to involve the County owning a piece of the
mall. Klyczek said it would cost about $15.2-million,
about $2-million more than the spot at the Crowne
Plaza. He said Cordish has expressed a willingness
to change the terms of their long term lease with
the City. He said the project may be eligable for
federal stimulus dollars and that Cordish plans to
convert the remainder of the mall into an entertainment
complex.
FALLS TOURISM ADVISORY BOARD
The President of the Niagara Tourism and
Convention Corporation telling officials in the
Falls last night they are light years behind Canada
in establishing the brand of Niagara Falls USA.
John Percy said Canada spends more than
$91-million on marketing and promotions
throughout Southern Ontario. He introduced the
City's Tourism Advisory committee to the
Florida consultant who helped establish the agency
six years ago. Joseph Lathrop has been rehired
and is helping them draw up a new marketing
strategy which he hopes to finish later in the year.
Percy said they had spent the first six years
building up the reputation of the American side
and the work will have to continue for years.
Convention Corporation telling officials in the
Falls last night they are light years behind Canada
in establishing the brand of Niagara Falls USA.
John Percy said Canada spends more than
$91-million on marketing and promotions
throughout Southern Ontario. He introduced the
City's Tourism Advisory committee to the
Florida consultant who helped establish the agency
six years ago. Joseph Lathrop has been rehired
and is helping them draw up a new marketing
strategy which he hopes to finish later in the year.
Percy said they had spent the first six years
building up the reputation of the American side
and the work will have to continue for years.
MARZBAN
The Chief Engineer of the City of Niagara Falls,
Ali Marzban, has been suspended for a week for
disciplinary reasons. City Administrator Donna
Owens told the Gazette it was an internal personnel
matter. She said it was not related to his need to
get a professional engineering license in New York.
Ali Marzban, has been suspended for a week for
disciplinary reasons. City Administrator Donna
Owens told the Gazette it was an internal personnel
matter. She said it was not related to his need to
get a professional engineering license in New York.
BOMB THREAT
A bomb threat just after 9 Monday night closed
the Nice & Easy convenience store at 4531 Lake
Road for a short time. The Sheriff's Department
traced the call to Wyndham Lawn where two
residents each accused the other of making the
call. The Sheriff's Department seized the phone
but there was no indication if anyone was arrested.
the Nice & Easy convenience store at 4531 Lake
Road for a short time. The Sheriff's Department
traced the call to Wyndham Lawn where two
residents each accused the other of making the
call. The Sheriff's Department seized the phone
but there was no indication if anyone was arrested.
SHOPLIFTING
A 56 year old Falls woman was charged around
6pm Monday with shoplifting more than $565 in
childrens clothing from the Wheatfield Bon Ton
store. Clairetha Ferguson of Niagara Avenue
allegedly concealed multiple items in her purse
and on her person. She was found with eight
childrens shirts, 5 pairs of shorts, two pairs of
underwear, and two pairs of shoes. She now has
an appearance ticket for Town Court Thursday
night.
6pm Monday with shoplifting more than $565 in
childrens clothing from the Wheatfield Bon Ton
store. Clairetha Ferguson of Niagara Avenue
allegedly concealed multiple items in her purse
and on her person. She was found with eight
childrens shirts, 5 pairs of shorts, two pairs of
underwear, and two pairs of shoes. She now has
an appearance ticket for Town Court Thursday
night.
Monday, August 3, 2009
CHET SECRIST FUNDRAISER
The two events recently held for Lockport
restaurant owner Chet Secrist raised about
$54,000. Jack Martin of the J Fitzgerald
Advertising Agency tells WLVL he can't say
how much came in from the comedy show
with Rob Lederman at the Palace and how
much was raised at the Dog Day of Summer
the following Saturday. He says it all got
blended together because some people were
buying tickets at the Credit Union and others
were making donations directly to them so
the Credit Union only provided them with a
grand total. He suspects they made about
$8,000 at the Palace. The actual amount
came to $53, 727. He says the change jars
around Town are bringing in money and that
was also not part of the total. Martin said the
rain really hurt them on Saturday, that it came
in waves and each time it thinned out the
crowd even further. As for Secrist, he's
now in remission from his leukemia which
means the chemo-therapy has been working.
The owner of Chet's Dog House is awaiting a
bone marrow transplant in 4 to 6 weeks.
restaurant owner Chet Secrist raised about
$54,000. Jack Martin of the J Fitzgerald
Advertising Agency tells WLVL he can't say
how much came in from the comedy show
with Rob Lederman at the Palace and how
much was raised at the Dog Day of Summer
the following Saturday. He says it all got
blended together because some people were
buying tickets at the Credit Union and others
were making donations directly to them so
the Credit Union only provided them with a
grand total. He suspects they made about
$8,000 at the Palace. The actual amount
came to $53, 727. He says the change jars
around Town are bringing in money and that
was also not part of the total. Martin said the
rain really hurt them on Saturday, that it came
in waves and each time it thinned out the
crowd even further. As for Secrist, he's
now in remission from his leukemia which
means the chemo-therapy has been working.
The owner of Chet's Dog House is awaiting a
bone marrow transplant in 4 to 6 weeks.
LOCKPORT BLOCK CLUBS
The National Night Out Against Crime will
be taking place Tuesday night across the
country....and in Lockport, the United
Neighborhood Watch Group invites you
to take a look at a garden they're working on
on the North side of Genesee Street between
Locust and Pine. U-N-W-G President Jack
Smith it's located on the site of a former
burned out home. They plan to add benches
and an arbor. He says they're very close
to finishing it. They'll be there from 6 till 9
Tuesday to answer questions and meet and
greet people. A meeting on forming a club
will be held Thursday, August 13 at City Hall.
The group plans to celebrate the "Night Out
Against Crime" later in the month around the
25th. The Falls had thiers last Tuesday.
be taking place Tuesday night across the
country....and in Lockport, the United
Neighborhood Watch Group invites you
to take a look at a garden they're working on
on the North side of Genesee Street between
Locust and Pine. U-N-W-G President Jack
Smith it's located on the site of a former
burned out home. They plan to add benches
and an arbor. He says they're very close
to finishing it. They'll be there from 6 till 9
Tuesday to answer questions and meet and
greet people. A meeting on forming a club
will be held Thursday, August 13 at City Hall.
The group plans to celebrate the "Night Out
Against Crime" later in the month around the
25th. The Falls had thiers last Tuesday.
STREET HOCKEY TOURNAMENT
Thirty-five teams consiting of around 200 players
took part in Sunday's street hockey tournament in
the Chestnut Street parking lot of the future
Lockport ice arena. The Wheatfield Hockey
Association sponsored the action to build a
relationship with the City and support the
effort. The players ranged in age from 8
year olds to seniors. They played on six
rinks boarded by bales of hay supplied by
Hoover's Dairy. About 400 spectators watched
the day long competition including Mayor Mike
Tucker and City Attorney John Ottaviano.
He said they are finishing plans for the two
rink structure and will be open in 18 to 24
months.
took part in Sunday's street hockey tournament in
the Chestnut Street parking lot of the future
Lockport ice arena. The Wheatfield Hockey
Association sponsored the action to build a
relationship with the City and support the
effort. The players ranged in age from 8
year olds to seniors. They played on six
rinks boarded by bales of hay supplied by
Hoover's Dairy. About 400 spectators watched
the day long competition including Mayor Mike
Tucker and City Attorney John Ottaviano.
He said they are finishing plans for the two
rink structure and will be open in 18 to 24
months.
NEW MAP
Niagara County producers of farm products
for direct sale to consumers are invited to
have their business shown on a new map
being produced by Cornell Cooperative
Extension. A basic listing is free but you
can be more prominently displayed for
$25. Twenty-thousand copies will be
produced. They have already contacted
those who were listed on the previous mop
but want to give everyone an opportunity to
get on the new one. You must grow at least
some of what you sell. Their plan is to get
them out next month. Funding was
supplied by the County using economic
stimulus money and from the State
Department of Agriculture and Markets.
Call 433-8839, extension 241, or write to
Paul Lehman at 4497 Lake Avenue in
Lockport.
for direct sale to consumers are invited to
have their business shown on a new map
being produced by Cornell Cooperative
Extension. A basic listing is free but you
can be more prominently displayed for
$25. Twenty-thousand copies will be
produced. They have already contacted
those who were listed on the previous mop
but want to give everyone an opportunity to
get on the new one. You must grow at least
some of what you sell. Their plan is to get
them out next month. Funding was
supplied by the County using economic
stimulus money and from the State
Department of Agriculture and Markets.
Call 433-8839, extension 241, or write to
Paul Lehman at 4497 Lake Avenue in
Lockport.
WEEKEND FIRES
A fire in the Falls around 9:30 Sunday morning
did an estimated $45,000 damage to a two story
home in the 2400 block of Pierce Avenue. One
woman escaped from a second floor bedroom
Another blaze in a detached garage at 6093
Karen Drive in Newfane Saturday did over
$10,000 damage. It also destroyed a satellite
dish on the roof of a nearby shed owned by
a neighbor. The cause of each fire not yet
determined.
did an estimated $45,000 damage to a two story
home in the 2400 block of Pierce Avenue. One
woman escaped from a second floor bedroom
Another blaze in a detached garage at 6093
Karen Drive in Newfane Saturday did over
$10,000 damage. It also destroyed a satellite
dish on the roof of a nearby shed owned by
a neighbor. The cause of each fire not yet
determined.
STIMULUS MONEY PAYS FOR 5 NEW OFFICERS
The Niagara Falls Police Department looking to
hire five new officers with federal stimulus dollars.
Police Superintendent John Chella said the
$1-million-52-thousand dollar grant will pay
for the five for three years. The City must
agree to keep them for a fourth year and
pay their salaries for it. The department's
budget already included 8 new hires and
they, and the five new ones, will attend
classes soon at N-C-C-C. The City applied
for the money two months ago. Rochester
received $5.8-million for thirty.
hire five new officers with federal stimulus dollars.
Police Superintendent John Chella said the
$1-million-52-thousand dollar grant will pay
for the five for three years. The City must
agree to keep them for a fourth year and
pay their salaries for it. The department's
budget already included 8 new hires and
they, and the five new ones, will attend
classes soon at N-C-C-C. The City applied
for the money two months ago. Rochester
received $5.8-million for thirty.
PERCY TO BE AT TOURISM BOARD MEETING
The President and CEO of the Niagara Tourism
and Convention Corporation is expected to
face some tough questioning tonight when he
attends a meeting of the Niagara Falls Tourism
Advisory Board. John Percy's first visit last
September was highlighted by a variety of
questions about the way the City is marketed.
Percy says he was invited to tonight's 6pm
session to give them an update on how the
tourism season is going compared to the
rest of the nation. He'll also bring along a
consultant they've hired to develop a
strategic marketing plan for the future.
and Convention Corporation is expected to
face some tough questioning tonight when he
attends a meeting of the Niagara Falls Tourism
Advisory Board. John Percy's first visit last
September was highlighted by a variety of
questions about the way the City is marketed.
Percy says he was invited to tonight's 6pm
session to give them an update on how the
tourism season is going compared to the
rest of the nation. He'll also bring along a
consultant they've hired to develop a
strategic marketing plan for the future.
SOLICITORS
The Sheriff's Department warning residents they
have made several recent arrests of people
soliciting without permits. They say anyone
selling itemsin your neighborhood should be
able to show you a proper ID and a permit from
the municipality in which you live. You can call
the Sheriff's Department if you are concerned
about anyone soliciting in your area. They can
be reached at 438-3393.
have made several recent arrests of people
soliciting without permits. They say anyone
selling itemsin your neighborhood should be
able to show you a proper ID and a permit from
the municipality in which you live. You can call
the Sheriff's Department if you are concerned
about anyone soliciting in your area. They can
be reached at 438-3393.
FORGED CHECKS
In Wilson, a Randall Road woman told the
Sheriff's Department Sunday she believes her
son forged at least 19 of her checks worth
almost $2500 between May and July. The
woman telling a deputy she noticed the
activity about two weeks ago while doing
on-line banking. She said her bank had been
charging her fees for bounced checks. She
then discovered she was missing some. Her
bank then gave her copies.
Sheriff's Department Sunday she believes her
son forged at least 19 of her checks worth
almost $2500 between May and July. The
woman telling a deputy she noticed the
activity about two weeks ago while doing
on-line banking. She said her bank had been
charging her fees for bounced checks. She
then discovered she was missing some. Her
bank then gave her copies.
SUNDAY MORNING BREAK IN
A 16 year old Lockport boy facing charges
after he allegedly broke into a Prospect
Street home around 1:30 Sunday morning.
Police say Justin Pulvino of 181 West Avenue
entered the home through a side window. They
were able to recover some of the property.
He's charged with burglary, possession of
stolen property, criminal mischief, and petit
larceny.
after he allegedly broke into a Prospect
Street home around 1:30 Sunday morning.
Police say Justin Pulvino of 181 West Avenue
entered the home through a side window. They
were able to recover some of the property.
He's charged with burglary, possession of
stolen property, criminal mischief, and petit
larceny.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
