A decision could come today on the future of the
79 Quality supermarket stores. A bid to buy them
is expected to be presented to a Delaware bankruptcy
court at 2pm. Tops offered $90-million for the stores
last month. Their current owner, Penn Traffic, filed
for chapter 11 bankruptcy in November. The court has
also gotten a bid from the Schenectady based Price
Chopper chain for 22 of the stores. G-E Capitol is the
major lender in the case, but the decision on who gets
what will be made by Bankruptcy Court Judge Peter
Walsh. The store on Rochester Road employs 71
people, 66 are members of United Food and
Commercial Workers Local One.
Friday, January 8, 2010
HOME INVASION IN WHEATFIELD
Three Buffalo men are being held on $25,000
bail in the County Jail after they allegedly forced
their way into a Wheatfield home around 9:30
Wednesday night and stole $6,000. It happened
at 3634 Moyer Road. A 28 year old woman said the
three masked men, one armed with a gun, forced
their way after she answered the door and demanded
money. She said one of them also pressed a sharp
instrument, possibly a knife, into her back. They
allegedly took the cash and tied her up but she was
freed by a man who was upstairs while the incident
was going on. She called the Sheriff's department
and the three were arrested near Ellicott Creek
Park in Tonawanda. Investigators believe the
incident was drug related. Police sources say
the home has been the site of two raids and activity
there is part of an ongoing investigation. The victim's
boyfriend is currently in jail on drug charges. The three
men are 23 year old Joseph Cruz, 18 year old Eusebio
Morales, and 17 year old Luis Davilla, all of Buffalo.
They are all charged with second degree robbery.
bail in the County Jail after they allegedly forced
their way into a Wheatfield home around 9:30
Wednesday night and stole $6,000. It happened
at 3634 Moyer Road. A 28 year old woman said the
three masked men, one armed with a gun, forced
their way after she answered the door and demanded
money. She said one of them also pressed a sharp
instrument, possibly a knife, into her back. They
allegedly took the cash and tied her up but she was
freed by a man who was upstairs while the incident
was going on. She called the Sheriff's department
and the three were arrested near Ellicott Creek
Park in Tonawanda. Investigators believe the
incident was drug related. Police sources say
the home has been the site of two raids and activity
there is part of an ongoing investigation. The victim's
boyfriend is currently in jail on drug charges. The three
men are 23 year old Joseph Cruz, 18 year old Eusebio
Morales, and 17 year old Luis Davilla, all of Buffalo.
They are all charged with second degree robbery.
SCHUMER SAYS THE BILLS WILL STAY HERE
Senator Chuck Schumer says not to worry about the
Bills leaving Buffalo. He says Ralph Wilson told him
they are not entertaining any offers to move to Los
Angeles. He said Wilson told him the team has never
spoken to the Majestic Reality Company. It's been
rumored they're trying to lure either Buffalo or
Jacksonville to L.A. The senator called it a figment
of Majestic's imagination. He said Ralph Wilson is
committed to Western New York and flatly told him
the Bills are staying in Buffalo. Period.
Bills leaving Buffalo. He says Ralph Wilson told him
they are not entertaining any offers to move to Los
Angeles. He said Wilson told him the team has never
spoken to the Majestic Reality Company. It's been
rumored they're trying to lure either Buffalo or
Jacksonville to L.A. The senator called it a figment
of Majestic's imagination. He said Ralph Wilson is
committed to Western New York and flatly told him
the Bills are staying in Buffalo. Period.
HOUSE FIRES CLAIM SEVERAL PETS
Several pets lost their lives in two seperate
house fires in the county Thursday. A dog and
a cat died of smoke exposure last night in a
blaze at 8501 West Somerset Road in Barker.
The homeowner, Timothy Myers, said he got
home from work around 5:30, opened the door,
and was overcome by smoke. He said he found
a fire in front of his wood burning stove and yelled
for his wife to call 911. He then went to look for his
animals and found they had already died. Barker
Fire Chief Randy Hillenbrand said the blaze was
confined to the living room and basement.
Anorher fire in the Falls around 10:30am yesterday
claimed the life of a pet cat and a dog was taken to
a vet. The fire at 3335 C Street was in a 2 story wood
frame home. The resident told officials he left
around 10 and found the home ablaze around
10:40. Fire Chief Bill MacKay said it originated
in the living room and was possibly started by a
lit cigarette. He estimated the damage to be $25,000.
house fires in the county Thursday. A dog and
a cat died of smoke exposure last night in a
blaze at 8501 West Somerset Road in Barker.
The homeowner, Timothy Myers, said he got
home from work around 5:30, opened the door,
and was overcome by smoke. He said he found
a fire in front of his wood burning stove and yelled
for his wife to call 911. He then went to look for his
animals and found they had already died. Barker
Fire Chief Randy Hillenbrand said the blaze was
confined to the living room and basement.
Anorher fire in the Falls around 10:30am yesterday
claimed the life of a pet cat and a dog was taken to
a vet. The fire at 3335 C Street was in a 2 story wood
frame home. The resident told officials he left
around 10 and found the home ablaze around
10:40. Fire Chief Bill MacKay said it originated
in the living room and was possibly started by a
lit cigarette. He estimated the damage to be $25,000.
HOUSE BURGLARY IN ROYALTON
A 50 inch plasma TV was among the items taken
within three hours time yesterday in a break in
at a home on Riddle Road in Royalton. The 65
year old victim said it happened between 9:30 am
and 12:30 pm. The Sheriff's department says it
appeared entry was made through the attached
garage. An $850 Lincoln welder, a $200 digitial
camera, and $200 in silver coins were also taken.
The man showed them footprints in the snow
that apparently belonged to the suspects...along
with tracks from their vehicle. The total loss was
a little over $3,700.
within three hours time yesterday in a break in
at a home on Riddle Road in Royalton. The 65
year old victim said it happened between 9:30 am
and 12:30 pm. The Sheriff's department says it
appeared entry was made through the attached
garage. An $850 Lincoln welder, a $200 digitial
camera, and $200 in silver coins were also taken.
The man showed them footprints in the snow
that apparently belonged to the suspects...along
with tracks from their vehicle. The total loss was
a little over $3,700.
DESIGNATED STROKE CENTER
The Falls Memorial Medical Center is the first
hospital in the County to be named a designated
stroke center under a statewide program to speed
up the treatment of strokes. Hospital officials say
it took them more than a year to obtain the
designation. They had to prove they could meet
a series of benchmarks where patients showing
signs of a stroke are assessed and treated within
certain time frames. The designation means more
County residents with signs of a stroke will be
taken to the Medical Center rather than out of
county hospitals.
hospital in the County to be named a designated
stroke center under a statewide program to speed
up the treatment of strokes. Hospital officials say
it took them more than a year to obtain the
designation. They had to prove they could meet
a series of benchmarks where patients showing
signs of a stroke are assessed and treated within
certain time frames. The designation means more
County residents with signs of a stroke will be
taken to the Medical Center rather than out of
county hospitals.
TWO TRIALS FOR WARME
Chief U.S. District Judge Richard Arcara ruled
Thursday that suspended Falls Police Officer
Ryan Warme will get two seperate trials for the
various charges against him. He also tossed out
two of the eleven criminal counts he faced. One
of them accused Warme of extorting sexual
favors from a prostitute and the other claimed he
deprived the citizens of Niagara Falls of his
honest services. The judge will rule today on the
dates for the seperate trials.
Thursday that suspended Falls Police Officer
Ryan Warme will get two seperate trials for the
various charges against him. He also tossed out
two of the eleven criminal counts he faced. One
of them accused Warme of extorting sexual
favors from a prostitute and the other claimed he
deprived the citizens of Niagara Falls of his
honest services. The judge will rule today on the
dates for the seperate trials.
FALLS TO TRY FOR RACE TO TOP GRANT
The Niagara Falls School District decided
last night to try to get part of a $700-million
federal grant that'll be doled out to states
later in the year. The cash will be awarded
under a program called "Race to The Top."
It requires that school districts give teachers
merit pay, that they allow more charter schools,
and that they build data systems to track
student performance. They would also have
to adopt certain benchmarks and improve low
performing schools. State winners will be
announced in April and September and the
money will be distributed to participating
districts.
last night to try to get part of a $700-million
federal grant that'll be doled out to states
later in the year. The cash will be awarded
under a program called "Race to The Top."
It requires that school districts give teachers
merit pay, that they allow more charter schools,
and that they build data systems to track
student performance. They would also have
to adopt certain benchmarks and improve low
performing schools. State winners will be
announced in April and September and the
money will be distributed to participating
districts.
WILLOW PARK
Two teens are facing drug charges after
Lockport Police were called to Altro Park
around 6 last night to investigate a report
a car was driving on the ice rink. Police say
they found a white Pontiac Bonneville stuck
in the snow halfway onto the rink. The driver and
two other males were inside, they said they
thought the rink was a parking lot so they
tried to turn around on it. Officers smelled
a strong odor of marijuana and asked if there
was anything illegal in the vehicle. The driver,
18 year old Jacob Roselund of 5741 Tonawanda
Creek Road said there was some marijuana in
the car, and a passenger, 17 year old Tyler
Johnson of 5062 Tonawanda Creek Road, said
he had some in his pocket. Roselund was also
charged with unlawfully driving on the rink and
unsafe lane change.
Lockport Police were called to Altro Park
around 6 last night to investigate a report
a car was driving on the ice rink. Police say
they found a white Pontiac Bonneville stuck
in the snow halfway onto the rink. The driver and
two other males were inside, they said they
thought the rink was a parking lot so they
tried to turn around on it. Officers smelled
a strong odor of marijuana and asked if there
was anything illegal in the vehicle. The driver,
18 year old Jacob Roselund of 5741 Tonawanda
Creek Road said there was some marijuana in
the car, and a passenger, 17 year old Tyler
Johnson of 5062 Tonawanda Creek Road, said
he had some in his pocket. Roselund was also
charged with unlawfully driving on the rink and
unsafe lane change.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
LOCKPORT CITY COUNCIL
Lockport lawmakers last night passed a declaration
saying a plan to put a $1.5-million banquet facility
atop the city-owned Electric Building along the Canal
would have no environmental impact. New alderman
Andrew Chapman raised some eyebrows during the
5pm work session when he told City Attorney John
Ottaviano the proposed addition would actually have
some negative effects ..and Ottaviano ended up agreeing
with Chapman and it changed the answers lawmakers
made when they answered a series of questions on it's
impact during the official meeting. It did not affect the
final vote though and Mayor Mike Tucker pointed out
the declaration did not commit the City to do the
project. He said it was needed to get the State grant that
paid half of the City's $67,000 cost for hiring an
architecural firm to look into new signs for city attractions.
The meeting started with ceremonies swearing in new
city officials. The husband of new Council President
Richelle Pisceri held the bible as she took her oath of
office. Tucker also made some appointments. Alderman
at large Joe Kibler and former alderman Pat Schrader
were given seats on the Fire Board. Third ward
represenative Flora McKenzie and ex-alderman Tate
Pitrello were re-appointed to the Police Board where
there is still one vacant seat. McKenzie was also
appointed to the Lockport Community Cable Commission.
Tucker reappointed Sandra Harmon, Kevin Foltz, and
Mike Worthington to the Zoning Board and Brian Bower,
Julie Muscato, and Howard Luff will remain on the Planning
Board.
saying a plan to put a $1.5-million banquet facility
atop the city-owned Electric Building along the Canal
would have no environmental impact. New alderman
Andrew Chapman raised some eyebrows during the
5pm work session when he told City Attorney John
Ottaviano the proposed addition would actually have
some negative effects ..and Ottaviano ended up agreeing
with Chapman and it changed the answers lawmakers
made when they answered a series of questions on it's
impact during the official meeting. It did not affect the
final vote though and Mayor Mike Tucker pointed out
the declaration did not commit the City to do the
project. He said it was needed to get the State grant that
paid half of the City's $67,000 cost for hiring an
architecural firm to look into new signs for city attractions.
The meeting started with ceremonies swearing in new
city officials. The husband of new Council President
Richelle Pisceri held the bible as she took her oath of
office. Tucker also made some appointments. Alderman
at large Joe Kibler and former alderman Pat Schrader
were given seats on the Fire Board. Third ward
represenative Flora McKenzie and ex-alderman Tate
Pitrello were re-appointed to the Police Board where
there is still one vacant seat. McKenzie was also
appointed to the Lockport Community Cable Commission.
Tucker reappointed Sandra Harmon, Kevin Foltz, and
Mike Worthington to the Zoning Board and Brian Bower,
Julie Muscato, and Howard Luff will remain on the Planning
Board.
MAZIARZ TO CHAIR SENATE ENERGY COMMITTEE
Senate Democratic leader John Sampson
Wednesday appointed State Senator George
Maziarz to chair the Senate Energy Committee.
Maziarz told WLVL he took the post because the
Niagara Power Project is in his district. He
acknowledged he's been a critic of the Power
Authority, especially since last year's decision
to put their surplus into the State's general fund,
and he thought the chairmanship would help him
get residents a better deal from the Power Authority.
He said he wanted to make it clear he was not
leaving the Republican conference and did not
promise any votes on any issues.
Wednesday appointed State Senator George
Maziarz to chair the Senate Energy Committee.
Maziarz told WLVL he took the post because the
Niagara Power Project is in his district. He
acknowledged he's been a critic of the Power
Authority, especially since last year's decision
to put their surplus into the State's general fund,
and he thought the chairmanship would help him
get residents a better deal from the Power Authority.
He said he wanted to make it clear he was not
leaving the Republican conference and did not
promise any votes on any issues.
STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS
The Governor told lawmakers in yesterday's
State of the State address there was still time
to rebuild the Empire State. Paterson said he
wanted to get rid of the Empire Zone program and
replace it with a new effort focusing on high tech and
green energy jobs. He proposed a new program that
would find new uses for abandoned factories. He
talked about Upstate, saying it was an area that had
suffered in the recession long before the rest of
New York and the country. He said they would do it
by extending the Erie Canal Research and Development
corridor. He said he wanted to make Upstate the
back office for corporate America, especially the
franchises that are located downstate. The governor
called for a cap on state spending, property tax relief,
fiscal restraint, and stronger anti corruption laws. He
wants to cap individual campaign donations at a
thousand dollars instead of the current $60,000 limit.
The New York State School Boards Association said
the speech was short on specifics for education. The
speech ran 32 minutes. He received polite applause
from Republicans but members of his own party
were reserved in their reaction.
State of the State address there was still time
to rebuild the Empire State. Paterson said he
wanted to get rid of the Empire Zone program and
replace it with a new effort focusing on high tech and
green energy jobs. He proposed a new program that
would find new uses for abandoned factories. He
talked about Upstate, saying it was an area that had
suffered in the recession long before the rest of
New York and the country. He said they would do it
by extending the Erie Canal Research and Development
corridor. He said he wanted to make Upstate the
back office for corporate America, especially the
franchises that are located downstate. The governor
called for a cap on state spending, property tax relief,
fiscal restraint, and stronger anti corruption laws. He
wants to cap individual campaign donations at a
thousand dollars instead of the current $60,000 limit.
The New York State School Boards Association said
the speech was short on specifics for education. The
speech ran 32 minutes. He received polite applause
from Republicans but members of his own party
were reserved in their reaction.
DETAILED, ITEMIZED STATEMENTS
Falls Council Chairman Sam Fruscione said
Wednesday he's going to send a letter to
the Niagara Tourism and Convention
Corporation telling them that the City wants
to look at invoices, payroll, and other financial
records within ten days. He said they want
detailed, itemized statements showing exactly
where the money is going. NTCC chair Tricia
Mezhir told the Buffalo News they have already
offered them the chance to look at their
financial records since July ...and they could
also get it from the Mayor, who represents the\
City on their Board of Directors.
Wednesday he's going to send a letter to
the Niagara Tourism and Convention
Corporation telling them that the City wants
to look at invoices, payroll, and other financial
records within ten days. He said they want
detailed, itemized statements showing exactly
where the money is going. NTCC chair Tricia
Mezhir told the Buffalo News they have already
offered them the chance to look at their
financial records since July ...and they could
also get it from the Mayor, who represents the\
City on their Board of Directors.
DYSTER TO MEET WITH MILSTEIN & SCHUMER
Falls Mayor Paul Dyster said Wednesday he is
tentatively set to meet with Niagara Falls
Redevelopment managing partner Howard
Milstein and Senator Chuck Schumer this Friday
in New York City. Dyster expects it will involve a
broad discussion on the City's plans for downtown
and N-F-R's role in it. He said it would give the City
a chance to get a better feel for NFR's intentions.
Schumer said he would try to put together the
meeting when he was in the Falls in November.
tentatively set to meet with Niagara Falls
Redevelopment managing partner Howard
Milstein and Senator Chuck Schumer this Friday
in New York City. Dyster expects it will involve a
broad discussion on the City's plans for downtown
and N-F-R's role in it. He said it would give the City
a chance to get a better feel for NFR's intentions.
Schumer said he would try to put together the
meeting when he was in the Falls in November.
PROJECTS ON HOLD IN TOWN OF LOCKPORT
Town of Lockport Supervisor Marc Smith told the
audience at last night's re-organizational meeting
that possible cuts in state aid and a lack of grants
have put plans to construct restrooms at Day Road
Park on hold. He said some projects that would
have started in the Spring will be pushed back to the
Fall.
audience at last night's re-organizational meeting
that possible cuts in state aid and a lack of grants
have put plans to construct restrooms at Day Road
Park on hold. He said some projects that would
have started in the Spring will be pushed back to the
Fall.
DISNEY ON ICE FIELD TRIP
For the first time ever, the Lockport Recreation
Department's annual field trip to see Disney On
Ice will take place at night. Spokesman Tony
Nemi said Disney did not offer any discounts
for the 11am show they used to attend but was
offering them for some shows in the evening.
They chose a date on Saturday January 23
because they were concerned the children
would not get home until about 10pm. The show
will start at 7pm, the seats are in the 100 level
and are $28 including bus transportation. Children
12 and under must be accompanied by an adult
and those under 18 must have a parental permission
slip. Tickets must be paid for when you make
your reservation. No phone orders will be taken
but you can call 434-3071 for more information.
They have 100 tickets available.
Department's annual field trip to see Disney On
Ice will take place at night. Spokesman Tony
Nemi said Disney did not offer any discounts
for the 11am show they used to attend but was
offering them for some shows in the evening.
They chose a date on Saturday January 23
because they were concerned the children
would not get home until about 10pm. The show
will start at 7pm, the seats are in the 100 level
and are $28 including bus transportation. Children
12 and under must be accompanied by an adult
and those under 18 must have a parental permission
slip. Tickets must be paid for when you make
your reservation. No phone orders will be taken
but you can call 434-3071 for more information.
They have 100 tickets available.
STIMULUS MONEY FOR JOB TRAINING
Congresswoman Louise Slaughter says workers
in Niagara and Erie counties will directly benefit
from federal stimulus money awarded to train
workers for the next generation of green energy
jobs. The money will come from the Energy
Training Partnership grant. Local steelworkers
will be trained as wind farm field technicians and
maintenance workers, solar panel installers, or
geothermal installers with part of the $4.6-million
allocated to four states including New York.
Slaughter said ironworkers in Niagara and Erie
counties will receive part of $1.9-million awarded
to five states including New York for training in
the renewable wind energy sector. The program
will also place ironworkers on wind turbine erection
projects.
in Niagara and Erie counties will directly benefit
from federal stimulus money awarded to train
workers for the next generation of green energy
jobs. The money will come from the Energy
Training Partnership grant. Local steelworkers
will be trained as wind farm field technicians and
maintenance workers, solar panel installers, or
geothermal installers with part of the $4.6-million
allocated to four states including New York.
Slaughter said ironworkers in Niagara and Erie
counties will receive part of $1.9-million awarded
to five states including New York for training in
the renewable wind energy sector. The program
will also place ironworkers on wind turbine erection
projects.
JIM'S STEAK OUT COMING TO LOCKPORT
Jim's Steak-out will be opening a location in the
Town of Lockport this month. It'll be the chain's
tenth location in Western New York and will be
located at 5774 South Transit. The tentative
opening is set for Monday, January 18. The outlet
will be the chain's second franchise store and is
owned by Dannis Van Patten. He won the first
franchise in June 2008 for a location in West Seneca.
He's friends with the founder of the operation, Jim
Incorvaia.
Town of Lockport this month. It'll be the chain's
tenth location in Western New York and will be
located at 5774 South Transit. The tentative
opening is set for Monday, January 18. The outlet
will be the chain's second franchise store and is
owned by Dannis Van Patten. He won the first
franchise in June 2008 for a location in West Seneca.
He's friends with the founder of the operation, Jim
Incorvaia.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
LEWIS TO LEAVE POST
Saying it was time for somebody else to take
the reins and bring in new ideas, County Manager
Greg Lewis announced Tuesday he would not be
seeking a new contract when his current deal with
the County runs out at the end of November. The
63 year old said two terms were enough. Majority
Leader Rick Updegrove said the Legislature could
form a committee at their next meeting on January
19 to look for a successor. Chairman Bill Ross said
they would have to decide whether to do a national
search or to limit it to residents of New York State.
Lewis has been manager since 2003. He currently
makes $105,000 a year.
the reins and bring in new ideas, County Manager
Greg Lewis announced Tuesday he would not be
seeking a new contract when his current deal with
the County runs out at the end of November. The
63 year old said two terms were enough. Majority
Leader Rick Updegrove said the Legislature could
form a committee at their next meeting on January
19 to look for a successor. Chairman Bill Ross said
they would have to decide whether to do a national
search or to limit it to residents of New York State.
Lewis has been manager since 2003. He currently
makes $105,000 a year.
STATE OF THE COUNTY
County Legislature Chairman Bill Ross said
last night the County will demand a permanent
seat on the board of the New York Power Authority
during his State of the County address. The County
is slated to meet with the Authority next week. Ross
also said they want two more megawatts of low cost
electricity from the Niagara Power Project and a
promise the County will get to keep it if the Authority's
billion dollar wind project is built off the County
shoreline. Ross also announced the Legislature
will talk about NCCC's Culinary Arts Institute with
College President James Klyczek an hour before the
January 19 meeting. He said it would be built in downtown
Niagara Falls but insisted the suggested location in the
Rainbow Center Mall is not a "lock" at this point. During
the meeting, the Legislature voted to remove Angelo
Massaro from the IDA Board. The Falls School District
Attorney was replaced by Mark Onesi. The Republican
lost to Minority Leader Dennis Virtuoso in the November
election. He's the dean of Academic Affairs at the ITT
Technical Institute in Getzville. Falls lawmaker Renea
Kimble and N-T's Paul Wojtaszek also said they would
sponsor a resolution January 19 urging Judge Richard
Arcara to rule against the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission
in the freedom of information case brought by John
Ceretto and Danny Sklarski over the departure of
former Bridge Commission chairman Tom Garlock.
last night the County will demand a permanent
seat on the board of the New York Power Authority
during his State of the County address. The County
is slated to meet with the Authority next week. Ross
also said they want two more megawatts of low cost
electricity from the Niagara Power Project and a
promise the County will get to keep it if the Authority's
billion dollar wind project is built off the County
shoreline. Ross also announced the Legislature
will talk about NCCC's Culinary Arts Institute with
College President James Klyczek an hour before the
January 19 meeting. He said it would be built in downtown
Niagara Falls but insisted the suggested location in the
Rainbow Center Mall is not a "lock" at this point. During
the meeting, the Legislature voted to remove Angelo
Massaro from the IDA Board. The Falls School District
Attorney was replaced by Mark Onesi. The Republican
lost to Minority Leader Dennis Virtuoso in the November
election. He's the dean of Academic Affairs at the ITT
Technical Institute in Getzville. Falls lawmaker Renea
Kimble and N-T's Paul Wojtaszek also said they would
sponsor a resolution January 19 urging Judge Richard
Arcara to rule against the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission
in the freedom of information case brought by John
Ceretto and Danny Sklarski over the departure of
former Bridge Commission chairman Tom Garlock.
LOCKPORT COMMON COUNCIL
History will be made in Lockport at 6pm
tonight when First Ward alderwoman
Richelle Pisceri is sworn in as the first
woman to be Council President. Pisceri
told WLVL she's excited and that former
Council President John Lombardi had been
very helpful. She expects her parents and
in-laws will be there tonight along with
her husband and their daughters. Judge
William Watson will administer her oath of
office and will also swear in new Second Ward
alderman Jack Smith, returning Third Ward
representative Flora McKenzie, newcomers
Andrew Chapman and Ken Genewick and
alderman at large Joe Kibler. A brief reception
with coffee and cake will follow the meeting.
tonight when First Ward alderwoman
Richelle Pisceri is sworn in as the first
woman to be Council President. Pisceri
told WLVL she's excited and that former
Council President John Lombardi had been
very helpful. She expects her parents and
in-laws will be there tonight along with
her husband and their daughters. Judge
William Watson will administer her oath of
office and will also swear in new Second Ward
alderman Jack Smith, returning Third Ward
representative Flora McKenzie, newcomers
Andrew Chapman and Ken Genewick and
alderman at large Joe Kibler. A brief reception
with coffee and cake will follow the meeting.
FLU CLINIC THURSDAY AT ROY HART
The County Health Department will be offering
free H1N1 and Seasonal flu shots to the community
Thursday at Roy Hart Senior High School. The
clinic will run from 10am till 7pm. The school is at
54 State Street in Middleport. All county residents
are welcome to attend. The shots will be offered to
everyone six months of age or older. Pediatric
nurses from the department will also be there to
administer vaccine to babies and young children.
Vacinators will administer both nasal and injection
forms of the flu vaccine. Nasal vaccine is highly effective
and safe and is reccomended for healthy individuals
from age 2 to 49. For questions about the clinic, call
439-7439.
free H1N1 and Seasonal flu shots to the community
Thursday at Roy Hart Senior High School. The
clinic will run from 10am till 7pm. The school is at
54 State Street in Middleport. All county residents
are welcome to attend. The shots will be offered to
everyone six months of age or older. Pediatric
nurses from the department will also be there to
administer vaccine to babies and young children.
Vacinators will administer both nasal and injection
forms of the flu vaccine. Nasal vaccine is highly effective
and safe and is reccomended for healthy individuals
from age 2 to 49. For questions about the clinic, call
439-7439.
LOCAL WEATHERMAN TO APPEAR IN TOWN COURT
Channel 4 weatherman Mike Cejka will be in
Town of Lockport court January 19 to face a
trespassing charge. The Union Sun & Journal
says a man on Old Beattie Road filed the charge
Tuesday after Cejka allegedly took the cover off a
motorcycle that the man had for sale at about 4am
on December 14. Cejka was also pulled over that
morning by a Sheriff's deputy after he allegedly
failed to stop at a sign and signal for a turn on
Rapids Road. The deputy said Cejka's Grand Cherokee
fled the scene but eventually stopped on Rapids.
The weatherman was said to be wearing a pair of
leather chaps covered by a very small pair of
sweat pants along with a dress shirt, dress shoes,
and a leather jacket. He was carrying a tube of
petroleum vaseline jelly which he said he needed for
his lips because he speaks a lot during the day.
Cejka was ordered out of his vehicle and told to
lie on the ground and placed in handcuffs. The
deputy said he thought Cejka might have been the
man who pulled the cover off the motorcycle.
Cejka said he was on his way to work at Channel 4
when he decided to check out the motorcycle that
he had seen for sale in the Summer. He said he wasn't
going to steal it, that he just wanted to see it again
because he liked it so much.
Town of Lockport court January 19 to face a
trespassing charge. The Union Sun & Journal
says a man on Old Beattie Road filed the charge
Tuesday after Cejka allegedly took the cover off a
motorcycle that the man had for sale at about 4am
on December 14. Cejka was also pulled over that
morning by a Sheriff's deputy after he allegedly
failed to stop at a sign and signal for a turn on
Rapids Road. The deputy said Cejka's Grand Cherokee
fled the scene but eventually stopped on Rapids.
The weatherman was said to be wearing a pair of
leather chaps covered by a very small pair of
sweat pants along with a dress shirt, dress shoes,
and a leather jacket. He was carrying a tube of
petroleum vaseline jelly which he said he needed for
his lips because he speaks a lot during the day.
Cejka was ordered out of his vehicle and told to
lie on the ground and placed in handcuffs. The
deputy said he thought Cejka might have been the
man who pulled the cover off the motorcycle.
Cejka said he was on his way to work at Channel 4
when he decided to check out the motorcycle that
he had seen for sale in the Summer. He said he wasn't
going to steal it, that he just wanted to see it again
because he liked it so much.
LACEY GETS TWO YEARS
A Lockport man was sentenced to two years in the
County Jail Tuesday in the aftermath of last Summer's
drunken driving crash in North Tonawanda that took
the life of his 19 year old girlfriend who was from Wilson.
Twenty-one year old Ryan Lacey of Lincoln Avenue
Extension could have received eight years in State
Prison but the family of Kristina Moley asked Judge
Sara Sheldon Sperrezza for leniency. Lacey pleaded
guilty several weeks ago to criminally negligent
homicide and DWI. He drove his SUV into a tree off
Ruie Road on July 21. He had been dating Moley for about
2 1/2 months when the accident happened. He also
admitted the accident constituted a violation of the terms
of the probation he was on for a burglary he committed
when he was 17.
County Jail Tuesday in the aftermath of last Summer's
drunken driving crash in North Tonawanda that took
the life of his 19 year old girlfriend who was from Wilson.
Twenty-one year old Ryan Lacey of Lincoln Avenue
Extension could have received eight years in State
Prison but the family of Kristina Moley asked Judge
Sara Sheldon Sperrezza for leniency. Lacey pleaded
guilty several weeks ago to criminally negligent
homicide and DWI. He drove his SUV into a tree off
Ruie Road on July 21. He had been dating Moley for about
2 1/2 months when the accident happened. He also
admitted the accident constituted a violation of the terms
of the probation he was on for a burglary he committed
when he was 17.
TRY AGAIN
The same committee that put together last year's
rejected recycling program in Lockport met again
yesterday with the Common Council's Refuse
committee. They suggested a "pay as you throw"
system that would make residents pay more for
trash they throw away but nothing for those they
recycle. Mayor Mike Tucker said he wants an
overall plan by the end of the year and that it
should result in some cost reductions for
residents. He said he wants it to include
recycling, privatizing the collection of garbage,
and a system that will charge tax exempt properties
for the service. Tucker said he would like to see the
City get out of the garbage business.
rejected recycling program in Lockport met again
yesterday with the Common Council's Refuse
committee. They suggested a "pay as you throw"
system that would make residents pay more for
trash they throw away but nothing for those they
recycle. Mayor Mike Tucker said he wants an
overall plan by the end of the year and that it
should result in some cost reductions for
residents. He said he wants it to include
recycling, privatizing the collection of garbage,
and a system that will charge tax exempt properties
for the service. Tucker said he would like to see the
City get out of the garbage business.
GRAND ISLAND ACCIDENT CLAIMS TWO LIVES
A young mother and her 9 month old daughter were
killed around 6:30 last night in a two vehicle crash
on Grand Island. Officials identified the mother as
22 year old Stephanie Ali. The accident happened
near 2695 Grand Island Boulevard just East of
Bedell Road. Ali and her baby were in a Toyota
Prius. They were hit by a small truck type vehicle
or SUV that was hauling snowmobiles on a trailer.
killed around 6:30 last night in a two vehicle crash
on Grand Island. Officials identified the mother as
22 year old Stephanie Ali. The accident happened
near 2695 Grand Island Boulevard just East of
Bedell Road. Ali and her baby were in a Toyota
Prius. They were hit by a small truck type vehicle
or SUV that was hauling snowmobiles on a trailer.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
NIAGARA FALLS CITY COUNCIL
The oath of office for new Falls councilmember
Karen Grandinetti was administered during a
short meeting at 4pm Monday. City Court Judge
Diane Vietllo also swore in the four county
lawmakers representing the city. Sam Fruscione
was elected to another term as Council Chairman.
He said he plans to continue to use casino revenue
on streets, demolitions, tourism, and economic
development. He previously served as Chairman
in 2008. As for Grandinetti, she lives on the same
street as the Mayor and says she's known him for
years, but says he won't influence for decisions.
Karen Grandinetti was administered during a
short meeting at 4pm Monday. City Court Judge
Diane Vietllo also swore in the four county
lawmakers representing the city. Sam Fruscione
was elected to another term as Council Chairman.
He said he plans to continue to use casino revenue
on streets, demolitions, tourism, and economic
development. He previously served as Chairman
in 2008. As for Grandinetti, she lives on the same
street as the Mayor and says she's known him for
years, but says he won't influence for decisions.
COMMUNITY CENTER GETS O-K FROM PLANNING BOARD
The Lockport Planning Board last night o-k'd
plans for a 1700 square foot Community Center
that'll be part of the makeover of Genesee Street
proposed by Housing Visions of Syracuse. Council
member Jack Smith's block club was instrumental
in convincing them to come here. He says the two
story structure is planned for 95 Locust Street and
there will be six apartments on the second floor.
The Planning Board gave it's approval despite some
concerns about parking and design. The building
will only have 8 parking spaces...six for the
apartments, and one each for the manager and
and maintenance. Smith said the Center would be
geared toward foot traffic. Housing Visions plans to
submit an application to the State next month for
tax credits to help fund the project. They would be
sold to some type of investment company to get the
money to fund the project. They expect to hear back
from Albany in August and if they get approved, the
work would start later in the year with asbestos
removal and some demolition. A presentation on the
project will be held at 6pm Friday at the First Baptist
Church at the corner of Pine and Genesee.
plans for a 1700 square foot Community Center
that'll be part of the makeover of Genesee Street
proposed by Housing Visions of Syracuse. Council
member Jack Smith's block club was instrumental
in convincing them to come here. He says the two
story structure is planned for 95 Locust Street and
there will be six apartments on the second floor.
The Planning Board gave it's approval despite some
concerns about parking and design. The building
will only have 8 parking spaces...six for the
apartments, and one each for the manager and
and maintenance. Smith said the Center would be
geared toward foot traffic. Housing Visions plans to
submit an application to the State next month for
tax credits to help fund the project. They would be
sold to some type of investment company to get the
money to fund the project. They expect to hear back
from Albany in August and if they get approved, the
work would start later in the year with asbestos
removal and some demolition. A presentation on the
project will be held at 6pm Friday at the First Baptist
Church at the corner of Pine and Genesee.
NEWFANE MAN ACCEPTS PLEA DEAL IN HOUSE BURGLARIES
A 21 year old Newfane man accepted a plea deal Monday
in County Court for breaking into homes last year. Nathaniel
Wagner of Rounds Road had been indicted on four counts
of house burglary but pleaded guilty to second degree
burglary for an incident that happened in Royalton in June.
Judge Sara Sheldon Sperrezza sentenced him to five years
in prison and five years post release supervision.
in County Court for breaking into homes last year. Nathaniel
Wagner of Rounds Road had been indicted on four counts
of house burglary but pleaded guilty to second degree
burglary for an incident that happened in Royalton in June.
Judge Sara Sheldon Sperrezza sentenced him to five years
in prison and five years post release supervision.
KIEDROWSKI TO LEAVE BOARD OF ELECTIONS
The County will be getting a new Republican Elections
Commissioner. The current occupant of the office
decided Saturday to accept the job of Clerk & Treasurer
for the City of North Tonawanda. Kiedwroski was sworn
in last night by State Senator George Maziarz but will not
take over the post until next Monday. He says it was a
difficult decision to leave the county and was made by him
and his wife. He says he truely enjoyed his time with the
County and instituting the new voting machines was a
highlight. He'll be helping the Board of Elections this week
with the transisition. Deputy Elections Commissioner
Mary Ann Casamento is expected to be named to take his
place at the Board. Kiedrowski is taking the post formerly
held by new Mayor Robert Ortt.
Commissioner. The current occupant of the office
decided Saturday to accept the job of Clerk & Treasurer
for the City of North Tonawanda. Kiedwroski was sworn
in last night by State Senator George Maziarz but will not
take over the post until next Monday. He says it was a
difficult decision to leave the county and was made by him
and his wife. He says he truely enjoyed his time with the
County and instituting the new voting machines was a
highlight. He'll be helping the Board of Elections this week
with the transisition. Deputy Elections Commissioner
Mary Ann Casamento is expected to be named to take his
place at the Board. Kiedrowski is taking the post formerly
held by new Mayor Robert Ortt.
ONE BILLS DRIVE
The Bills kicked off thier head coaching interview
process last night by meeting with interim head
coach Perry Fewell. The 47 year old is considered
a long shot for the job. He replaced Dick Jauron when
Jauron was let go back in November. It was the first
of what are likely to be numerous interviews with
different candidates over the next couple of weeks.
The meeting followed yesterday's announcement that
all of the team's assistant coaches are free to seek
other employment. They all had one year left on their
contracts which technically are still in effect, but they
will be fired unless the new head coach offers them a
job.
process last night by meeting with interim head
coach Perry Fewell. The 47 year old is considered
a long shot for the job. He replaced Dick Jauron when
Jauron was let go back in November. It was the first
of what are likely to be numerous interviews with
different candidates over the next couple of weeks.
The meeting followed yesterday's announcement that
all of the team's assistant coaches are free to seek
other employment. They all had one year left on their
contracts which technically are still in effect, but they
will be fired unless the new head coach offers them a
job.
MURPHY DROPS A CHARGE
County Court Judge Matt Murphy Monday threw
out one of the two counts of criminally negligent
homicide against a Lockport woman in the morphine
overdose death of her daughter. Twenty-three year
old Sara Nigro had been accused of failing to provide
timely medicial care for 13 month old Sierra Marie
Doxey when the girl died on March 4, 2008. Murphy
tossed out the charge because unchallenged grand
jury testimony showed she had been asleep from 8am
until the 9-1-1 call was made at 1:37pm. Nigro is
still charged with another count for failing to prevent
the youngster from gaining access to the morphine in their
Garden Street apartment. Murphy left both charges
intact against the toddler's father, 23 year old Nicholas
Doxey. His trial will begin January 19. Nigro will be
tried later.
out one of the two counts of criminally negligent
homicide against a Lockport woman in the morphine
overdose death of her daughter. Twenty-three year
old Sara Nigro had been accused of failing to provide
timely medicial care for 13 month old Sierra Marie
Doxey when the girl died on March 4, 2008. Murphy
tossed out the charge because unchallenged grand
jury testimony showed she had been asleep from 8am
until the 9-1-1 call was made at 1:37pm. Nigro is
still charged with another count for failing to prevent
the youngster from gaining access to the morphine in their
Garden Street apartment. Murphy left both charges
intact against the toddler's father, 23 year old Nicholas
Doxey. His trial will begin January 19. Nigro will be
tried later.
A NEW DAY IN WHEATFIELD
New Wheatfield Supervisor Bob Cliffe promised
residents at last night's re-organizational meeting
that sessions will be run more businesslike in
the future. He said the past practice of allowing
residents to speak from their seats at any time
during the meeting were over and they would have
to step up to the microphone and identifty themselves.
The Board approved a new meeting schedule. Their
work sessions will now be on the second Monday of
the month with the official meeting on the fourth
Monday. The meeting was much shorter than those
in the past and only ran about an hour. Lawmakers
approved several changes to business and record
keeping practices. Purchases of up to $2500 will have
to be approved by Cliffe, or by Deputy Supervisor
Ken Retzlaff or councilmember Gil Doucet. Two
signatures will be needed for items costing more
than $2500. A public hearing was set for January 25
to consider changing the zoning of the 11 1/2 acres
owned by the Church at Shawnee Landing...on
Shawnee Road...to a more limited classification. The
owners have abandoned plans to open a church
there.
residents at last night's re-organizational meeting
that sessions will be run more businesslike in
the future. He said the past practice of allowing
residents to speak from their seats at any time
during the meeting were over and they would have
to step up to the microphone and identifty themselves.
The Board approved a new meeting schedule. Their
work sessions will now be on the second Monday of
the month with the official meeting on the fourth
Monday. The meeting was much shorter than those
in the past and only ran about an hour. Lawmakers
approved several changes to business and record
keeping practices. Purchases of up to $2500 will have
to be approved by Cliffe, or by Deputy Supervisor
Ken Retzlaff or councilmember Gil Doucet. Two
signatures will be needed for items costing more
than $2500. A public hearing was set for January 25
to consider changing the zoning of the 11 1/2 acres
owned by the Church at Shawnee Landing...on
Shawnee Road...to a more limited classification. The
owners have abandoned plans to open a church
there.
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