Search ENP
Powered by Blogger.
ENP Home
Posts By Category
Posts By Location
Posts By Date
-
►
2015
(3740)
- December (259)
- November (308)
- October (338)
- September (345)
- August (221)
- July (277)
- June (360)
- May (299)
- April (263)
- March (379)
- February (289)
- January (402)
Upcoming Events
Monday, March 31, 2014
8:02 PM
| | Edit Post
Local Restaurant Week is upon us once again.
Starting today and running through Sunday, the price for select meals at participating restaurants is determined by the calendar. This year, options are $20.14. In some cases, restaurants even feature lunch-for-two options for the same $20.14.
Among the East Niagara restaurants participating are:
There are over 200 restaurants participating across Western New York.
The event has had an $8 million annual impact on the local economy, according to organizers.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Starting today and running through Sunday, the price for select meals at participating restaurants is determined by the calendar. This year, options are $20.14. In some cases, restaurants even feature lunch-for-two options for the same $20.14.
Among the East Niagara restaurants participating are:
- Cammarata's Restaurant serving up $20.14 dinner or lunch-for-two options.
- Danny Sheehan's with several dinner selections.
- Donna Eick's featuring lunch-for-two.
- Garlock's Restaurant with nine different dinners to choose from.
- The Shamus with dinner-dessert combos.
There are over 200 restaurants participating across Western New York.
The event has had an $8 million annual impact on the local economy, according to organizers.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
6:11 PM
| | Edit Post
A Hess Road woman told Niagara County Sheriff's deputies on Sunday that someone had used her Visa card to make a purchase without her consent.
According to the report filed by the Niagara County Sheriff's Office, a purchase was made online on March 8, posting on March 9. The woman told patrol that the card itself was in her possession so someone must have somehow obtained the card number and used it to make the purchase.
The complainant told patrol that the Visa account has been suspended but that Sprint was holding her accountable for the fraudulent purchase. The Sprint fraud department requested a law enforcement investigation update.
The woman was advised that a report on the incident would be on file with NCSO and would be available for CIB review.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
According to the report filed by the Niagara County Sheriff's Office, a purchase was made online on March 8, posting on March 9. The woman told patrol that the card itself was in her possession so someone must have somehow obtained the card number and used it to make the purchase.
The complainant told patrol that the Visa account has been suspended but that Sprint was holding her accountable for the fraudulent purchase. The Sprint fraud department requested a law enforcement investigation update.
The woman was advised that a report on the incident would be on file with NCSO and would be available for CIB review.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Credit Card Fraud,Crime,fraud,NCSO,Newfane | 0
comments
2:16 PM
| | Edit Post
While investigated an attempted burglary on Ide Road, Niagara County Sheriff's deputies followed footprints to 6053 Hillcrest Ave. in Newfane.
Once at the Hillcrest Avenue home — while interviewing the resident, Chad C. Regling, 28 — patrol could smell a strong odor of marijuana, according to the NSCO report. Patrol observed items used in the process of growing cannabis. Also observed on an ottoman was a small container which contained a green leafy vegetable matter believed to be marijuana.
After obtaining a warrant, patrol found and seized 44 marijuana plants and 4 pills suspected to be Oxycodone. Patrol located said plants in a rear bedroom, which was equipped with two tents and lighting equipment designed for indoor agriculture.
Regling was charged with unlawful growing of cannabis and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. He is to appear in Newfane Town Court on April 15.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Once at the Hillcrest Avenue home — while interviewing the resident, Chad C. Regling, 28 — patrol could smell a strong odor of marijuana, according to the NSCO report. Patrol observed items used in the process of growing cannabis. Also observed on an ottoman was a small container which contained a green leafy vegetable matter believed to be marijuana.
After obtaining a warrant, patrol found and seized 44 marijuana plants and 4 pills suspected to be Oxycodone. Patrol located said plants in a rear bedroom, which was equipped with two tents and lighting equipment designed for indoor agriculture.
Regling was charged with unlawful growing of cannabis and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. He is to appear in Newfane Town Court on April 15.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Crime,drugs,NCSO,Newfane | 0
comments
2:07 PM
| | Edit Post
The New York State Department of Transportation reports that the road closure on Route 31 in Cambria is cleared.
The road had been closed between Meahl and Comstock roads following an accident shortly before 1 p.m.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
The road had been closed between Meahl and Comstock roads following an accident shortly before 1 p.m.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:accident,Cambria,NYSDOT,Route 31 | 0
comments
1:54 PM
| | Edit Post
A Newfane man arrived at his Ide Road home just in time to stop a burglary attempt, according to the Niagara County Sheriff's Office.
The man told Sheriff's deputies tht he arrived home shortly before 8 p.m. on Saturday to find an unknown man wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and baggy jeans run from his unattached garage located in his back yard. The man was approximately 5-foot 9-inches tall.
Sheriff's deputies followed footprints from the garage to an address on Hillcrest Road. They footprints appeared to go to and from the front door then headed to the rear door.
Patrol made contact with the homeowner who consented to a search of the house, which turned up empty.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
The man told Sheriff's deputies tht he arrived home shortly before 8 p.m. on Saturday to find an unknown man wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and baggy jeans run from his unattached garage located in his back yard. The man was approximately 5-foot 9-inches tall.
Sheriff's deputies followed footprints from the garage to an address on Hillcrest Road. They footprints appeared to go to and from the front door then headed to the rear door.
Patrol made contact with the homeowner who consented to a search of the house, which turned up empty.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Burglary,Crime,NCSO,Newfane | 0
comments
1:43 PM
| | Edit Post
Chelsie Bogdan |
The report filed by NYSP says that 20-year-old Chelsie T. Bogdan of Sunset Drive made over $800.00 in unauthorized online purchases utilizing a credit card of a person she was familiar with.
She was arrested on a warrant, processed and taken to the Town of Lockport Court for arraignment and remanded to Niagara County Jail in lieu of $1,000 cash/$5,000 bond.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Crime,identity theft,NCSO,theft,Town of Lockport | 0
comments
1:30 PM
| | Edit Post
East Niagara travelers should take steps to avoid Route 31 in Cambria for the next several hours.
According to the state Department of Transportation, Route 31 is closed between Meahl and Comstock roads for as much as the next four hours due to an accident.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
According to the state Department of Transportation, Route 31 is closed between Meahl and Comstock roads for as much as the next four hours due to an accident.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:accident,Cambria,NYSDOT | 0
comments
12:28 PM
| | Edit Post
The Buffalo Sabres have removed the word "interim" from coach Ted Nolan's title as of this morning.
Nolan has served as interim coach of the Sabres since Nov. 13 when the front office was shaken up. At that time Coach Ron Rolston was let go from the team and Nolan was brought in along with Patrick LaFontaine, who was made president of hockey operations. LaFontaine left the team on March 1.
“We are very happy to get this deal done and have Ted Nolan as our permanent head coach going forward,” said Sabres general manager Tim Murray. “Teddy has proven time and again that he is an exceptional leader, motivator and teacher. He is exactly what we need in a head coach for our hockey team and we’re confident in his ability to guide our players and turn this team around.”
“I said back in November that it was a dream to be able to come back and coach the Sabres and that’s still true today,” Nolan said. “Hockey is my life and Buffalo is a special place for hockey. I’m excited by the challenge facing our team and our organization and I’m truly thankful to have this opportunity.”
Nolan's previous stint with the Sabres resulted in a 73-72-19 record in the 1995-96 and 1996-97 seasons. He was the franchise’s first Jack Adams Award winner following a first-place Northeast Division finish in 1996-97. He left the team after 1997 and later spent two seasons as head coach of the New York Islanders, during which the Islanders had a 74-68-21 record during the 2006-07 and 2007-08 seasons. Nolan's overall NHL record is 163-170-48.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
BREAKING NEWS: Ted Nolan signs contract extension and is officially named Buffalo #Sabres head coach. pic.twitter.com/42B7RMSZO4
— Buffalo Sabres (@BuffaloSabres) March 31, 2014
The Sabres announced the deal — reportedly a three-year extension — this morning via Twitter (see above).Nolan has served as interim coach of the Sabres since Nov. 13 when the front office was shaken up. At that time Coach Ron Rolston was let go from the team and Nolan was brought in along with Patrick LaFontaine, who was made president of hockey operations. LaFontaine left the team on March 1.
“We are very happy to get this deal done and have Ted Nolan as our permanent head coach going forward,” said Sabres general manager Tim Murray. “Teddy has proven time and again that he is an exceptional leader, motivator and teacher. He is exactly what we need in a head coach for our hockey team and we’re confident in his ability to guide our players and turn this team around.”
“I said back in November that it was a dream to be able to come back and coach the Sabres and that’s still true today,” Nolan said. “Hockey is my life and Buffalo is a special place for hockey. I’m excited by the challenge facing our team and our organization and I’m truly thankful to have this opportunity.”
Nolan's previous stint with the Sabres resulted in a 73-72-19 record in the 1995-96 and 1996-97 seasons. He was the franchise’s first Jack Adams Award winner following a first-place Northeast Division finish in 1996-97. He left the team after 1997 and later spent two seasons as head coach of the New York Islanders, during which the Islanders had a 74-68-21 record during the 2006-07 and 2007-08 seasons. Nolan's overall NHL record is 163-170-48.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Buffalo Sabres,hockey,NHL,Sports,Ted Nolan | 0
comments
6:22 AM
| | Edit Post
That big yellow ball you'll see in the sky today is called the sun. Get used to it.
Today the big yellow ball will be accompanied by a high of 49 degrees. When it goes away, it will cool off to about 30. Tuesday the big yellow ball is planning on hiding behind rain clouds, but they'll be warm rain clouds with a high of 61 and an overnight low of 35.
Wednesday is forecast to be mostly sunny with a high of 46 and a low of 29. Thursday's forecast is nearly identical: Sunny with a high of 46 and a low of 33. Friday offers a chance of rain with a high of 49 and a low of 35. Saturday will be partly sunny with a chance of showers. The high is forecast at 49 and the overnight low will be around 32 degrees.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Today the big yellow ball will be accompanied by a high of 49 degrees. When it goes away, it will cool off to about 30. Tuesday the big yellow ball is planning on hiding behind rain clouds, but they'll be warm rain clouds with a high of 61 and an overnight low of 35.
Wednesday is forecast to be mostly sunny with a high of 46 and a low of 29. Thursday's forecast is nearly identical: Sunny with a high of 46 and a low of 33. Friday offers a chance of rain with a high of 49 and a low of 35. Saturday will be partly sunny with a chance of showers. The high is forecast at 49 and the overnight low will be around 32 degrees.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Weather | 0
comments
1:08 AM
| | Edit Post
PHOTOS BY HEATHER N. GRIMMER/CONTRIBUTOR |
An opening reception offered visitors a chance to discuss the works with the artists and wine tasting by Schulze Winery.
The Whalen, Weld & Watkins exhibit, which runs through May 11 is the art center's second of the year. The Black & White exhibit was ran from Feb. 9 to March 22.
Of the artists at hand, the most well-known, Joseph Whalen, actually prefers to be called a painter rather than an artist. He is a second-generation apprentice of Raphael Beck. Beck taught respected artist Sister Mary Julia S.S.M.N., who in turn taught Whalen. He continued his studies at RIT including noted watercolorist Ralph Avery and completed his art education at the University of Buffalo, Niagara University and Buffalo State. He worked for time as a medical illustrator for Roswell Park and a technical illustrator at the Cornell Lab. Whalen spent 35 years as an art teacher in public schools and NCCC.
Jeff Watkins, a practitioner of the Plein Air style of painting primarily works in watercolor. He paints primarily from the local landscape. During the past 40 years, Jeff taught public and private watercolor lessons, including at the Birchfield-Penny Art Center, where his work is featured.
Mark Weld is a self taught artist and a member of the Buffalo Society of Artists. He has exhibited in numerous shows including the Allentown Art Festival and the Adirondacks National Exhibition. A member of the Buffalo Society of Artists and the Central New York Watercolor Society, his favorite scenes to paint come from his other great interest, Jazz.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Art,Lockport,Market Street Studios,News | 0
comments
Sunday, March 30, 2014
11:16 AM
| | Edit Post
The three teens, 19-year-old Maria Parete of Hawley Street, 16-year-old Lewis Williams of Garden Street and 16-year-old Kyliek Bembo of Lock Street, were charged with first-degree robbery for holding the homeowners at gunpoint — with an air pistol — while they robbed the home of electronics and other property. Parete was also charged with seventh-degree possession of a controlled substance for having prescription tablets that were not prescribed to her.
Lockport Police, the Niagara County Sheriff's Office and New York State Police responded to what was reported as a hostage situation around 11 p.m. All three suspects were in police custody around 1:30 a.m. but police were still looking for one or more potential suspects at that time.
Further charges are pending as the investigation continues.
A story posted early this morning incorrectly stated that the three suspects in custody were all male.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
10:39 AM
| | Edit Post
Monday
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
- The Lockport Town Board will hold a work session at 1 p.m. in Town Hall, 6560 Dysinger Road.
- The Newfane School Board will meet at 7 p.m. in the Early Childhood Center on Godfrey Road.
- The Greater Lockport Development Corp. will meet at 7:45 a.m. in City Hall, One Locks Plaza.
- The Lockport Common Council will meet at 6 p.m. in City Hall.
- The Lockport Town Board will hold a regular meeting at 7:30 p.m. in Town Hall.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Meetings | 0
comments
10:07 AM
| | Edit Post
A white male and white female were seen leaving the Tops on Lockport-Olcott Road in Wrights Corners shortly after 2 a.m. Saturday with what is believed to be $400 worth of merchandise.
According to a report filed with the Niagara County Sheriff's Office, the pair were both in their mid- to late-20s and both wearing dark clothing. The male was also wearing a dark colored cap while the female, whom the male called "Bianca" several times while inside the store, was wearing a hooded sweatshirt.
The couple went to exit the store with three baskets of merchandise but the female suspect reportedly dropped the shopping basket that she was carrying, and continued to run out with the male suspect, who was carrying two full baskets of merchandise.
After they left the store, store employees saw a white van exiting the parking lot eastbound on Wheeler Road, with all of the vehicle lights turned off.
Judging by the amount of merchandise in the basket that was dropped by the female suspect, it was estimated that the male suspect stole approximately $400 worth of merchandise "consisting of what appeared to be various meat products, razor blades, and packages of pens."
Case closed pending new information.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
According to a report filed with the Niagara County Sheriff's Office, the pair were both in their mid- to late-20s and both wearing dark clothing. The male was also wearing a dark colored cap while the female, whom the male called "Bianca" several times while inside the store, was wearing a hooded sweatshirt.
The couple went to exit the store with three baskets of merchandise but the female suspect reportedly dropped the shopping basket that she was carrying, and continued to run out with the male suspect, who was carrying two full baskets of merchandise.
After they left the store, store employees saw a white van exiting the parking lot eastbound on Wheeler Road, with all of the vehicle lights turned off.
Judging by the amount of merchandise in the basket that was dropped by the female suspect, it was estimated that the male suspect stole approximately $400 worth of merchandise "consisting of what appeared to be various meat products, razor blades, and packages of pens."
Case closed pending new information.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Crime,NCSO,theft,Tops,Wrights Corners | 0
comments
9:53 AM
| | Edit Post
Mario Lopez-Ramirez |
According to a report file by the Niagara County Sheriff's Office, Mario Lopez-Ramirez, 38, 1857 Hess Road, Appleton, was traveling westbound on Wilson-Burt Road when patrol spotted him drive on the shoulder of the road.
Patrol initiated a traffic stop and believed him to be intoxicated. Lopez-Ramirez was unable to speak English so a border patrol agent was brought to the scene to translate. Lopez-Ramirez failed several field sobriety tests and tested positive for alcohol but refused a chemical breath test.
He was charged with DWI, driving on the shoulder, driving with an obstructed view and unlicensed operation of motor vehicle. He was remanded to the Niagara County Jail and held on $250 bail.
It was determined that Lopez-Ramirez was in the country illegally so a detainer was placed on him so he could later be transferred to the custody of border patrol after his release.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Appleton,Border Patrol,Crime,DWI,illegal immigrant,NCSO | 0
comments
6:03 AM
| | Edit Post
A winter weather advisory, issued by the National Weather Service, is in effect in East Niagara through 11 a.m.
The advisory calls for wet snow early this morning and freezing drizzle in the late morning. "Wet snow overnight will result in slick roads and hazardous travel conditions. Any patchy freezing drizzle Sunday morning will add to hazardous travel," the advisory says.
The forecast high for today is 40 degrees with a 23-degree low. Monday is expected to be sunny with a high of 44 and a low of 34. April Fools Day showers will be accompanied by a 59-degree high. Tuesday's low is forecast as 35.
Wednesday offers a high of 50 and a low of 33 with a chance of overnight snow. Thursday brings a chance of rain or snow showers with a high of 48 and a low of 36. Friday brings more rain or snow with a high of 51 and a low of 32.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
The advisory calls for wet snow early this morning and freezing drizzle in the late morning. "Wet snow overnight will result in slick roads and hazardous travel conditions. Any patchy freezing drizzle Sunday morning will add to hazardous travel," the advisory says.
The forecast high for today is 40 degrees with a 23-degree low. Monday is expected to be sunny with a high of 44 and a low of 34. April Fools Day showers will be accompanied by a 59-degree high. Tuesday's low is forecast as 35.
Wednesday offers a high of 50 and a low of 33 with a chance of overnight snow. Thursday brings a chance of rain or snow showers with a high of 48 and a low of 36. Friday brings more rain or snow with a high of 51 and a low of 32.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Weather | 0
comments
2:16 AM
| | Edit Post
GOOGLE MAPS |
Lockport Police, the Niagara County Sheriff's Office and New York State Police responded to the reported hostage situation at 287 Lock St. around 11 p.m. Saturday. Shortly before 1:30 a.m., three males were in the custody of the Lockport Police Department and the police agencies were scouring the city for other perpetrators.
About two dozen law enforcement officers were on scene at the Lock Street home and a Lockport Fire Department paramedic crew was waiting down the street in case they were called for. They never were.
Lock Street was barricaded at Monroe Street and again at Washington Street to keep the scene clear of onlookers.
Following the detainment of the three men at Lock Street, police continued to search the area, including Upson Park, for other parties involved.
CORRECTION: Two suspects in custody are male. One is female. (11:13 a.m. March 30, 2014)
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Saturday, March 29, 2014
11:09 PM
| | Edit Post
Lockport Police and Fire departments are responding to a reported hostage situation in the city's north end.
There is a man reported with a handgun as police surround the area.
More details when they are available.
UPDATED STORY
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Crime,Lockport,LPD | 2
comments
10:21 PM
| | Edit Post
The Buffalo Sabres had a 1-0 lead over the Tampa Lightning. They also had a 2-0 lead. And a 3-2 lead. But at the end of the game, it was Tampa that lead, beating the Sabres 4-3 in overtime.
It's a scenario that has played out repeatedly over the course of Buffalo's 20-46-8 season.
Sunday night the Sabres honored former goaltender Dominik Hasek for a career filled with seasons much better than the 2013-2014 year. Hasek's name was added to the Sabres Hall of Fame. Next year his number will be retired.
Matt D'Agostini started the scoring 12:20 into the first period. Cody Hodgson made it 2-0 less than two minutes later at 14:07. Tampa's Alex Killhorn pulled the Lightning to within a goal at 17:52. And Steven Stamkos tied the game at 19:46.
Following a scoreless second period, the Sabres took a 3-2 lead at 8:14 of the third on a Cory Conacher wrist shot. Tampa tied it yet again at 10:07 of the third, forcing the game into overtime with a tip-in by Ryan Callahan.
In the overtime period, Stamkos scored his second of the night for the Lightning at 1:53 on a slapshot, ending the game with another Sabres loss.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
It's a scenario that has played out repeatedly over the course of Buffalo's 20-46-8 season.
Sunday night the Sabres honored former goaltender Dominik Hasek for a career filled with seasons much better than the 2013-2014 year. Hasek's name was added to the Sabres Hall of Fame. Next year his number will be retired.
Matt D'Agostini started the scoring 12:20 into the first period. Cody Hodgson made it 2-0 less than two minutes later at 14:07. Tampa's Alex Killhorn pulled the Lightning to within a goal at 17:52. And Steven Stamkos tied the game at 19:46.
Following a scoreless second period, the Sabres took a 3-2 lead at 8:14 of the third on a Cory Conacher wrist shot. Tampa tied it yet again at 10:07 of the third, forcing the game into overtime with a tip-in by Ryan Callahan.
In the overtime period, Stamkos scored his second of the night for the Lightning at 1:53 on a slapshot, ending the game with another Sabres loss.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Buffalo Sabres,hockey,Sports,Tampa Lightning | 0
comments
4:11 PM
| | Edit Post
A Gasport man told Niagara County Sheriff's deputies Friday evening that sometime Friday an unknown person entered his West Avenue apartment and stole his Xbox 360, six games and two console controllers.
According to the report filed by NCSO, no forced entry was found on the apartment door. The complainant was unable to provide patrol with any suspect information. Patrol told him to call if he could think of anything additional.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
According to the report filed by NCSO, no forced entry was found on the apartment door. The complainant was unable to provide patrol with any suspect information. Patrol told him to call if he could think of anything additional.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Crime,Gasport,NCSO,theft | 0
comments
11:30 AM
| | Edit Post
The National Weather Service is calling for a "hazardous weather outlook" due to a storm expected to his this evening.
"This system will spread rain into our area this afternoon and evening, which will then mix with and change into snow tonight, with lighter snow and rain then tapering off from west to east during the course of Sunday," the weather service stated. "Snowfall with this system will likely vary greatly with little accumulation to several inches of snow possible, with the greatest accumulations most likely across higher terrain."
Today's high is forecast at 38 degrees with an overnight low of 32. Sunday offers a high of 40 with a low of 29. Monday is expected to be sunny with a high of 54 and a low of 35. April Fools day will be sunny with a high of 60 before turning to rain and a 36-degree low.
Wednesday will be mostly sunny with a high of 50 and a low of around 31. Thursday calls for a chance of rain with a high of 50 and a low of 36. Friday offers a chance of showers with a high of around 52 and a low of 33.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
"This system will spread rain into our area this afternoon and evening, which will then mix with and change into snow tonight, with lighter snow and rain then tapering off from west to east during the course of Sunday," the weather service stated. "Snowfall with this system will likely vary greatly with little accumulation to several inches of snow possible, with the greatest accumulations most likely across higher terrain."
Today's high is forecast at 38 degrees with an overnight low of 32. Sunday offers a high of 40 with a low of 29. Monday is expected to be sunny with a high of 54 and a low of 35. April Fools day will be sunny with a high of 60 before turning to rain and a 36-degree low.
Wednesday will be mostly sunny with a high of 50 and a low of around 31. Thursday calls for a chance of rain with a high of 50 and a low of 36. Friday offers a chance of showers with a high of around 52 and a low of 33.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Weather | 0
comments
Friday, March 28, 2014
3:43 PM
| | Edit Post
Alfredo Gonzalez |
The NCSO report states that Alfredo A. Gonzalez, of 200 Niagara St., Apt. 210 in Buffalo, was changing a tire on his vehicle in the 6600 block of Tonawanda Creek Road when Sheriff's deputies determined him to be intoxicated.
The 43-year-old Gonzalez only spoke Spanish so NCSO brought in a translator to administer field sobriety tests, which Gonzalez failed, according to the report. He refused to submit to a blood alcohol test and was placed under arrest.
Once under arrest, it was determined that Gonzalez had two standing warrants from Minnesota, one for identity theft and one for a probation violation from an identity theft charge. While Gonzalez property was being searched, "an out of state driver's license with a different name and photo along with a credit card matching the name on the driver's license was discovered in Gonzalez's wallet," the report stated.
He is due back to Town of Lockport Court for charges of DWI, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and refusing a breath test on April 1.
He remains in Niagara County Jail on $250 bail along with the two detainers for the Minnesota warrants.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
2:21 PM
| | Edit Post
A 23-year-old Lockport woman was charged with driving while intoxicated early this morning by New York State Police.
According to the report filed, Lockport troopers stopped a red Nissan Sentra on South Transit Road in the Town of Lockport shortly after 3 a.m. for illegally tinted windows and an unregistered motor vehicle.
Laurel C. Reed exhibited signs of intoxication, police say. She registered a BAC level of .14 when tested.
She was transported to the Lockport troopers barracks, where she was processed without incident and released on the appropriate uniform traffic tickets returnable to Town of Lockport Court on April 10.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
According to the report filed, Lockport troopers stopped a red Nissan Sentra on South Transit Road in the Town of Lockport shortly after 3 a.m. for illegally tinted windows and an unregistered motor vehicle.
Laurel C. Reed exhibited signs of intoxication, police say. She registered a BAC level of .14 when tested.
She was transported to the Lockport troopers barracks, where she was processed without incident and released on the appropriate uniform traffic tickets returnable to Town of Lockport Court on April 10.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
12:57 PM
| | Edit Post
The December assault of Lockport High School athletic director Pat Burke has ended with a prison sentence for the two teens responsible for the assault.
The pair, who were both granted youthful offender status, were ordered to serve one to three years in state prison in the “shock incarceration” program.
If they complete the six-month program, they will be paroled, as per court order. If they fail to complete the program satisfactorily, however, they will serve the full term, although they will both be eligible for parole after 12 months.
The youths assaulted Burke and monitor George Apolito on Dec. 3 when they were confronted by Burke for behavior issues. The teens were reportedly both drunk at the time of the incident. Burke suffered a bloody nose in the attack. Apolito also had physical damage to his lip, cheek and hand.
The pair have been in the Niagara County Jail since they were arrested on Dec. 4.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
12:42 PM
| | Edit Post
A 74-year-old Olcott man, upset that two Gasport men were trimming trees hanging over the fence of a West Main Street property, displayed a shotgun in an effort to make them stop, according to Niagara County Sheriff's deputies.
According to the report filed by the Niagara County Sheriff's Office, Dennis Harkins, 5803 West Main Street, began yelling at the two tree trimmers to stop cutting the trees and returned to the window a short time later holding a black shotgun shortly after noon on Thursday. The tree trimmers said Harkins pointed the shotgun briefly in their direction and they immediately stopped cutting the trees and called 911.
Patrol spoke to Harkins, who stated he was very upset the trees were being trimmed and admitted he did retrieve his shotgun because he didn't know what else to do to make them stop. He told patrol that he did hold the shotgun at the window, but said he never pointed the gun in their direction.
The Gasport men stated they had no interest in giving patrol a written statement and did not want to have Harkins arrested. The said they only contacted patrol because they wanted the man to stop pointing the gun at them.
Harkins was "advised of the seriousness of his actions and informed that if the complainants wished to pursue criminal charges, he would be arrested for said actions." Patrol advised Harkins to store the firearm and ammunition separately and in different locations. Investigation closed pending new information.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
According to the report filed by the Niagara County Sheriff's Office, Dennis Harkins, 5803 West Main Street, began yelling at the two tree trimmers to stop cutting the trees and returned to the window a short time later holding a black shotgun shortly after noon on Thursday. The tree trimmers said Harkins pointed the shotgun briefly in their direction and they immediately stopped cutting the trees and called 911.
Patrol spoke to Harkins, who stated he was very upset the trees were being trimmed and admitted he did retrieve his shotgun because he didn't know what else to do to make them stop. He told patrol that he did hold the shotgun at the window, but said he never pointed the gun in their direction.
The Gasport men stated they had no interest in giving patrol a written statement and did not want to have Harkins arrested. The said they only contacted patrol because they wanted the man to stop pointing the gun at them.
Harkins was "advised of the seriousness of his actions and informed that if the complainants wished to pursue criminal charges, he would be arrested for said actions." Patrol advised Harkins to store the firearm and ammunition separately and in different locations. Investigation closed pending new information.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Gasport,gun,NCSO,Olcott | 0
comments
12:31 PM
| | Edit Post
Jason Clark |
Jason Clark, 39, of New York Street in Lockport, was charged with assault following the Big Lots incident, which occurred on Feb. 23. He was also charged with assault for the baseball bat incident, which allegedly occurred on Juniper Street in the City of Lockport on Feb. 7.
Clark was arrested Feb. 25 in Niagara Falls. He remains jailed pending trial.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Big Lots,Court,Crime,NCSO,Stabbing,Town of Lockport | 0
comments
12:10 PM
| | Edit Post
A Woodlands resident told Niagara County Sheriff's deputies that someone posed as her grandson in an effort to scam her out of $4,000.
The woman told Sheriff's deputies that she received a phone call from a restricted number at approximately 1:30 p.m. Tuesday in which the caller identified himself as her grandson. The caller proceeded to tell her that he had been arrested and needed $4,000 cash for bail.
The complainant received a second call from an unknown male, identifying himself as her grandson's lawyer. The "lawyer" instructed the woman to go to the bank and withdraw $4000, which she did. He then advised her to wire the money to him through FedEx, or stated that the grandson's girlfriend would come to her house to retrieve the cash, which the complainant refused.
It was later confirmed that her grandson had never been arrested. The woman did not receive any further phone calls and is not out any money. Sheriff's deputies instructed to change her number and monitor her accounts. The case is closed pending further information.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
The woman told Sheriff's deputies that she received a phone call from a restricted number at approximately 1:30 p.m. Tuesday in which the caller identified himself as her grandson. The caller proceeded to tell her that he had been arrested and needed $4,000 cash for bail.
The complainant received a second call from an unknown male, identifying himself as her grandson's lawyer. The "lawyer" instructed the woman to go to the bank and withdraw $4000, which she did. He then advised her to wire the money to him through FedEx, or stated that the grandson's girlfriend would come to her house to retrieve the cash, which the complainant refused.
It was later confirmed that her grandson had never been arrested. The woman did not receive any further phone calls and is not out any money. Sheriff's deputies instructed to change her number and monitor her accounts. The case is closed pending further information.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Crime,fraud,NCSO,theft,Town of Lockport,Woodlands | 0
comments
11:53 AM
| | Edit Post
State Sen. George Maziarz is calling for increased state funding for road and bridge repairs.
“Western New Yorkers know how brutal this winter has been on our roads,” Maziarz said via press release this morning. “In every community I visit it is clear that more help is needed to do everything from fix potholes to rebuild bridges. More money for these kinds of improvements would go a long way towards enhancing public safety and the quality of life in our communities.”
“Every year local governments have to decide how to use precious CHIPS funding so it has the most impact and addresses the most important road surface problems,” added Maziarz, R-Newfane. “More CHIPS funding would lead to more repairs being possible, plain and simple.”
The Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS) was established by the state more than 30 years ago and remains a prime vehicle for delivering state aid to municipalities for road repairs on non-state highways.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
“Western New Yorkers know how brutal this winter has been on our roads,” Maziarz said via press release this morning. “In every community I visit it is clear that more help is needed to do everything from fix potholes to rebuild bridges. More money for these kinds of improvements would go a long way towards enhancing public safety and the quality of life in our communities.”
“Every year local governments have to decide how to use precious CHIPS funding so it has the most impact and addresses the most important road surface problems,” added Maziarz, R-Newfane. “More CHIPS funding would lead to more repairs being possible, plain and simple.”
The Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS) was established by the state more than 30 years ago and remains a prime vehicle for delivering state aid to municipalities for road repairs on non-state highways.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
6:30 AM
| | Edit Post
The National Weather Service predicts 50-degree weather for today — accompanied by rain. The overnight low is expected to be 31.
Saturday offers a high of 40 and a low of 27 with a chance of rain or snow. Sunday should be clear and sunny with a high of 43 and a low of 27. Monday will be mostly sunny with a high of 56 and a low of 38.
Tuesday will bring a chance of showers with a high of 51 and a low of 32. Wednesday is expected to be party sunny with a high of 45 and a low of low of 32. Thursday's high is forecast as 48 degrees.
Wake up with East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for updates of all our stories delivered to your inbox each morning.
Saturday offers a high of 40 and a low of 27 with a chance of rain or snow. Sunday should be clear and sunny with a high of 43 and a low of 27. Monday will be mostly sunny with a high of 56 and a low of 38.
Tuesday will bring a chance of showers with a high of 51 and a low of 32. Wednesday is expected to be party sunny with a high of 45 and a low of low of 32. Thursday's high is forecast as 48 degrees.
Follow us by email for updates of all our stories delivered to your inbox each morning.
Labels:Weather | 0
comments
12:24 AM
| | Edit Post
The Buffalo Sabres road trip lasted one game too long, as the team couldn't keep up with the Nashville Predators Thursday night.
Scoring four goals in the first period — and chasing Sabres' goaltender Matt Hackett from the net in doing so — the Predators cruised to a 6-1 victory over the visiting Sabres, who were on their fifth game of a five-game road trip.
The Predators' scoring started 6:26 into the first as Colton Sissons scored his first of the year on a wrist shot. Colin Wilson notched his eighth of the year five minutes and 18 seconds later. Calle Jarnkrok made it 3-0 a mere 9 seconds later. It was Jarnkrok's first goal of the 2013-2014 season as well. Shea Weber rounded out the first period scoring at 19:17, scoring a power play goal on a slapshot.
The Sabres mustered a mere four shots in the first period while the Predators had four goals on 15 shots.
The second period started with a sign of life from the Blue and Gold as Rasmus Ristolainen made it 4-1, 2:06 into the period with a slap shot of his own. It would be the Sabres only goal of the night, however.
Weber scored his second of the night and 20th of the season at 6:19 with a slapshot, and Eric Nystrom finished the scoring with a goal at 19:20 of the third period. It was his 14th of the year.
With the loss, the Sabres are now 20-45-8 on the season. They play at home on Saturday against the Tampa Bay Lightning. Former Sabres goaltender Dominik Hasek will be honored with a spot in the Sabres Hall of Fame prior to the game.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Scoring four goals in the first period — and chasing Sabres' goaltender Matt Hackett from the net in doing so — the Predators cruised to a 6-1 victory over the visiting Sabres, who were on their fifth game of a five-game road trip.
The Predators' scoring started 6:26 into the first as Colton Sissons scored his first of the year on a wrist shot. Colin Wilson notched his eighth of the year five minutes and 18 seconds later. Calle Jarnkrok made it 3-0 a mere 9 seconds later. It was Jarnkrok's first goal of the 2013-2014 season as well. Shea Weber rounded out the first period scoring at 19:17, scoring a power play goal on a slapshot.
The Sabres mustered a mere four shots in the first period while the Predators had four goals on 15 shots.
The second period started with a sign of life from the Blue and Gold as Rasmus Ristolainen made it 4-1, 2:06 into the period with a slap shot of his own. It would be the Sabres only goal of the night, however.
Weber scored his second of the night and 20th of the season at 6:19 with a slapshot, and Eric Nystrom finished the scoring with a goal at 19:20 of the third period. It was his 14th of the year.
With the loss, the Sabres are now 20-45-8 on the season. They play at home on Saturday against the Tampa Bay Lightning. Former Sabres goaltender Dominik Hasek will be honored with a spot in the Sabres Hall of Fame prior to the game.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Thursday, March 27, 2014
12:45 PM
| | Edit Post
Constantly expanding and constantly changing, the Niagara Wine Trail is trying something new for its annual "Taste of the Trail" event, to be held over two weekends in April.
During the weekends of April 4-6 and 11-13, the wineries along the Niagara Wine Trail will participate in the annual wine and local food-pairing event, with 10 wineries taking part one weekend and the other 10 taking part the following weekend.
"This allows attendees to take advantage of visiting wineries they may not have had the chance to visit yet, and have the opportunity to visit more than just a few wineries in one day," according to a press release from the wine trail.
The concept of Taste of the Trail is to educate how wine can easily pair with each part of your meal. A sample from a local food vendor, or the winery's own favorite pairing, will be given at each location with a taste of three wines.
Wineries participating April 4-6 include:
April 11-13 participating wineries are:
Tickets include the food sample, a tasting of three wines, and a commemorative wine glass from the first winery. Attendees are encouraged to purchase tickets online in advance for this event. The Single Weekend price will be $20 advance or $25 at the door, and the Two Weekends price will be $35 advance or $40 at the door during the first weekend. Advance ticket sales end online at 9 p.m. April 3 for the first weekend, and 9 p.m. April 10 for the second weekend.
Tickets do not include transportation, and are valid all three days of the event so attendees may visit a few wineries each day, if they choose. The event runs each weekend Noon to 5 p.m. on Friday and Sunday, and from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Saturday.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
During the weekends of April 4-6 and 11-13, the wineries along the Niagara Wine Trail will participate in the annual wine and local food-pairing event, with 10 wineries taking part one weekend and the other 10 taking part the following weekend.
"This allows attendees to take advantage of visiting wineries they may not have had the chance to visit yet, and have the opportunity to visit more than just a few wineries in one day," according to a press release from the wine trail.
The concept of Taste of the Trail is to educate how wine can easily pair with each part of your meal. A sample from a local food vendor, or the winery's own favorite pairing, will be given at each location with a taste of three wines.
Wineries participating April 4-6 include:
- BlackBird Cider Works
- Black Willow Winery
- Chateau Niagara Winery, featuring a pasta sampler paired with their new release "Bliss" wine (blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay)
- Lake Ontario Winery, featuring Semi Dry Riesling paired with baguette bread topped with homemade mozzarella & drizzled with a mild olive oil and cinnamon pear balsamic vinegar
- Leonard Oakes Estate Winery
- Schulze Vineyards
- Schwenk Wine Cellars
- Spring Lake Winery with Bruschetta Italiano paired with Zinfandel and White Merlot
- Vizcarra Vineyards, offering mini cupcakes paired with Becker Blue blueberry wine, blushing peach melba mini cupcake with a vanilla bean buttercream, and peach cake, accented with black raspberry and vanilla bean, vanilla bean buttercream and cobbler garnish
- The Winery at Marjim Manor, featuring pizza fondue paired with choice of dry, medium, or sweet wine: True Blue or Legacy (dry), Sophia's Sunrise (medium), and Blue Beryl (sweet)
April 11-13 participating wineries are:
- A Gust of Sun Winery, featuring creamy, vegetarian carrot soup, infused with Sweet Westies White wine
- Arrowhead Spring Vineyards
- Eveningside Vineyards with chocolate crownies paired with red wines
- Flight of Five Winery offering Lock 68 wine paired with pesto chicken sliders (a vegetarian option will be available)
- Freedom Run Winery
- Honeymoon Trail Winery
- Long Cliff Winery, featuring Pinot Noir paired with a mixed vegetable side dish from Garlock's Restaurant
- Midnight Run Wine Cellars, featuring coconut curry chicken paired with Riesling
- Niagara Landing Wine Cellars with assorted artisan and stuffed breads with a variety of dips that pair with any of their wines
- Victorianbourg Wine Estate
Tickets include the food sample, a tasting of three wines, and a commemorative wine glass from the first winery. Attendees are encouraged to purchase tickets online in advance for this event. The Single Weekend price will be $20 advance or $25 at the door, and the Two Weekends price will be $35 advance or $40 at the door during the first weekend. Advance ticket sales end online at 9 p.m. April 3 for the first weekend, and 9 p.m. April 10 for the second weekend.
Tickets do not include transportation, and are valid all three days of the event so attendees may visit a few wineries each day, if they choose. The event runs each weekend Noon to 5 p.m. on Friday and Sunday, and from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Saturday.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
6:59 AM
| | Edit Post
Today will be warm ... and then wet. The daytime high is forecast as 45 degrees and cloudy with an overnight low of 40 with rain expected.
Friday offers rain with 52 degrees for the high and 27 for the low. Saturday brings a slight chance of rain with a high of 39 and a low of 26. Sunday is forecast as a clear day with a high of 44 and an overnight low of 31.
Monday will be mostly sunny with a high of around 57 and a low of 37. April kicks off with showers and a high of 47. The low Tuesday is forecast as 30 before Wednesday's 42-degree high.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Friday offers rain with 52 degrees for the high and 27 for the low. Saturday brings a slight chance of rain with a high of 39 and a low of 26. Sunday is forecast as a clear day with a high of 44 and an overnight low of 31.
Monday will be mostly sunny with a high of around 57 and a low of 37. April kicks off with showers and a high of 47. The low Tuesday is forecast as 30 before Wednesday's 42-degree high.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Weather | 0
comments
12:00 AM
| | Edit Post
Details on a Tuesday night shooting at Walnut Street and Wilson Parkway continue to trickle in.
A Walnut Street resident, who declined to be named, said that at around 9:15 p.m. five shots were fired directly into their neighbor's home, followed by the squeel of tires. Another Walnut Street resident, however, told police that both his vehicle and his home had been damaged by bullets.
Other witnesses reported seeing a black male in dark clothing running from the scene, heading westbound on Walnut Street.
Lockport Police, Niagara County Sheriff's deputies and New York State Police responded to the scene at the time of the attack.
Lockport Police Department detectives do not believe the attack was random, although they have not stated either a motive or a suspect. There were no injuries in the incident.
Police continue the investigation of the shooting and ask that anyone with information contact them at 433-7700.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
4:15 PM
| | Edit Post
A Lockport book designer and publisher will speak at a self-publishing session hosted by the Lewiston Writers' Group at the Lewiston Public Library, from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday.
Mike Miller, author of the upcoming "It’s Your Book - Create It, Publish It, Market It," will present a guide to creating, publishing, and marketing books.
He invites would-be authors to come with questions or even their manuscripts to explore together how self-publishing may be the answer to getting their words out. This interactive session will focus on print/publish-on-demand services, marketing, and content creation.
Miller's latest endeavor is slated to be published in April.
RSVPs are requested for those attending the seminar either through email or via the Lewiston Writers' Group Website contact page.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Mike Miller, author of the upcoming "It’s Your Book - Create It, Publish It, Market It," will present a guide to creating, publishing, and marketing books.
He invites would-be authors to come with questions or even their manuscripts to explore together how self-publishing may be the answer to getting their words out. This interactive session will focus on print/publish-on-demand services, marketing, and content creation.
Miller's latest endeavor is slated to be published in April.
RSVPs are requested for those attending the seminar either through email or via the Lewiston Writers' Group Website contact page.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Art,Mike Miller,News,writing | 0
comments
2:27 PM
| | Edit Post
“If enough states did this, we would change the landscape of how we choose a president,” said state Sen. George Maziarz, one of the co-sponsors of S.3149-A, the Senate version of the bill. “Too often presidential candidates campaign in a handful of swing states and ignore all the others. This bill would make New York’s votes matter more than ever and it would make sure that presidential candidates pay attention to our state and ultimately are more accountable to our state.”
While the Electoral College itself would remain in tact, states are free to allocate their votes any way in which they determine, meaning if enough states sign on to the National Popular Vote agreement — enough to total 270 electoral votes — it would assure that whichever candidate receives the most total votes nationwide would become president. The agreement dictates that none of the states which have signed on would allocate their votes to the popular vote winner until enough states sign on to equal 270.
So far, nine states and the District of Columbia have signed the measure, accounting for 136 electoral votes. If New York's bill is signed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, it would increase the total to 165 electoral votes. New York would be the second largest state, behind California's 55 electoral votes, to join the effort.
All nine of the states that have approved the measure are states that typically vote for the Democratic candidate. They are California, Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia. New York is also a "safe" blue state.
Legislation has also passed both houses of the Colorado legislature but has not yet been signed by Gov. John Hickenlooper, a Democrat. Nine other states have had bills pass one of their two legislative bodies — Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Michigan, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, and Oregon.
Proponents of the bill note that the nation is nearly evenly split electorally between Democratic-leaning and Republican-leaning states, excluding a handful of states which "swing." In the 2012 presidential election, President Barack Obama and Gov. Mitt Romney spent the vast majority of their post-convention time in those "swing states," primarily in Ohio, Florida, Virginia and Iowa. Additionally, voters in so-called "safe states," including New York, seldom see presidential candidates due to the need for candidates to campaign in the swing states.
As the wording in Senate bill states, "... in the Presidential elections of 2000 and 2004, the winners were selected based upon the outcomes of elections in one state or less because of their weight in the Electoral College. The 'winner take all' system is no longer adequate, and the voice of millions of Americans should not be concentrated into the outcome of one state's election."
"For too long New York has been irrelevant in choosing our president," Maziarz added. “This agreement will change that by making sure the voice of the majority of our citizens is heard.”
"The National Popular Vote bill is about empowering the only true voice of the people to elect the president. Common Cause/NY is proud to see the the Legislature bring the country one step further in pursuit of a more equitable democracy by passing this important legislation," said Susan Lerner, Executive Director of Common Cause/NY, a non-profit, non-partisan advocacy group.
Dissenters point to the long history of the Electoral College and say changing the way a president is elected should be done by changing the Constitution.
The New York Senate bill was sponsored by Republican Sen. Joseph Griffo — and co-sponsored by Maziarz and numerous others. The Assembly counterpart was sponsored by Democratic Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz. Assemblywoman Jane Corwin, R-Clarence, voted in favor of the bill.
Various versions of the bill have been introduced yearly dating back to 2006. What was originally introduced by five members of the Assembly has grown to what it is today. In 2010 and 2011, it passed the Senate but failed the Assembly. In 2013, it passed the Assembly but the Senate never considered it. Now it has been approved in the Senate by a 57-4 margin and in the Assembly by a 100-32 margin and simply awaits the governor's signature.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
12:35 PM
| | Edit Post
Niagara County's law enforcement agencies combined for 325 traffic tickets over St. Patrick's Day weekend.
Between March 14 and March 18, the Niagara County Sheriff's Office, Lockport Police Department, Middleport Police Department, Barker Police Department, Somerset Police Department, Niagara Falls Police Department, North Tonawanda Police Department, Lewiston Police Department, and Town of Niagara Police Department all participated in a "St. Patrick's Day DWI Crackdown Enforcement."
All agencies involved provided increased patrol units that were specifically designated for DWI enforcement, resutling in 15 people across Niagara County being arrested during this time frame for Driving While Intoxicated. The extra patrol also had an additional 23 arrests, and issued approximately 325 traffic tickets.
Future "crackdown" periods are already scheduled in 2014, with all agencies being involved.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Between March 14 and March 18, the Niagara County Sheriff's Office, Lockport Police Department, Middleport Police Department, Barker Police Department, Somerset Police Department, Niagara Falls Police Department, North Tonawanda Police Department, Lewiston Police Department, and Town of Niagara Police Department all participated in a "St. Patrick's Day DWI Crackdown Enforcement."
All agencies involved provided increased patrol units that were specifically designated for DWI enforcement, resutling in 15 people across Niagara County being arrested during this time frame for Driving While Intoxicated. The extra patrol also had an additional 23 arrests, and issued approximately 325 traffic tickets.
Future "crackdown" periods are already scheduled in 2014, with all agencies being involved.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Crime,DWI,LPD,NCSO | 0
comments
11:35 AM
| | Edit Post
Craig Blowers of Lockport has been named to the Dean's List for the 2013 - 14 fall semester at Geneva College. Dean's List status is awarded to students who earn a 3.6 grade point average or better.
A senior, Blowers is majoring in engineering.
Geneva College is a Christian liberal arts college in Beaver Falls, Pa., just north of Pittsburgh.
Geneva’s general engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, one of only 15 CCCU schools to offer and ABET-accredited, four-year engineering program.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
A senior, Blowers is majoring in engineering.
Geneva College is a Christian liberal arts college in Beaver Falls, Pa., just north of Pittsburgh.
Geneva’s general engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, one of only 15 CCCU schools to offer and ABET-accredited, four-year engineering program.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Gevena College,Lockport,On Campus | 0
comments
11:20 AM
| | Edit Post
I can start to understand this feeling that we will never escape the winter we have had. First of all, we are waiting for yet another snowstorm to hit at some point this week. While I really hope this is the last snowstorm of the season, it is going to feel odd to have to shovel out my driveway so close to April 1st.
Secondly, the potholes. The potholes started dotting our roads in December and have gotten worse over time. This winter in Lockport has become the “winter of the potholes” and it is a horror story that is going to cost the city and its residents money before it is over.
Willow Street is completely gone. It took my wife and I over five minutes to drive two blocks on Willow Street and there was no traffic. That is going to need considerably more than a little patching work. I have driven around Western New York and I have seen what other people in other places are complaining about. No city or town I have seen has it nearly as bad as we have it here.
The city announced that there would be no concerts this summer. That announcement did not surprise me. What surprised me was the outrage that came with the announcement. Have you people driven around the city? Do you really want hordes of out-of-towners coming to Lockport with our roads the way they are? Not only are we inviting lawsuits that could bankrupt the city, but the Lockport reputation will take yet another series of hits that it may not recover from.
The best approach is to fix the roads and focus on a big grand opening for the ice rink. But I fear that the ice rink will be built before the roads can be fixed. There isn’t a road in Lockport that is without a pothole problem, and I am not exaggerating. My wife and I used to really like driving around Lockport on her days off just to see what was going on. During the spring and summer, we like to drive around to check out the yard and estate sales. Ain’t happening this year. I am not paying to have my car repaired because the roads are impassable.
I don’t think Widewaters will be able to open this spring either. This would be the first spring in a while where Lockport did not mark the arrival of better weather with the annual opening of the best burger joint in New York State. Maybe it will open, I don’t know. But it just seems like the one casualty from last year’s flood may never rise again, and that would be sad.
Snow, in and of itself, is fine. We all expect it anywhere from October to early March. But snow in late March and April starts to make the people around here antsy. I cannot remember the last time winter went this long. Thank God for global warming or winter may be going on indefinitely.
I would ask everyone to just relax and let spring show up, but I cannot be a hypocrite. I am just as anxious as you about this weather. I see snowflakes now and I get this tick in my neck that makes me look like I am suffering from an incurable disease. I can write the word snow, but I just cannot bring myself to say it anymore.
I love snow. I really do. But even snow starts to wear out its welcome at some point and that point has been reached. But even when the snow is gone, the potholes will be there to remind us of this winter. If all we do is patch the potholes this spring and summer, then we will have bigger road problems next year. These things tend to steamroll when not taken care of properly.
So, Happy Spring . . . I guess. The drive-in claims it will be open in the first part of April. I hope so. I would like to see at least one thing remind us all that winter does end. But, in this case, the nightmares will live on for a very long time.
Nick Oliver is a Niagara County resident who is pretty sick of winter. His column appears every Wednesday. He can be reached at nickoliver@writeme.com. Long live our pothole overlords.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
9:03 AM
| | Edit Post
Local gas prices fell just a fraction of a cent this week to $3.72, according to AAA East Central. The price is 17 cents lower than a year ago, however.
The national average price per gallon is $3.53, 12 cents more expensive than one month ago, but just a penny above one week ago and 14 cents per gallon less than the same date last year.
Pump prices in most states have moved higher over the last week; however prices did fall in 20 states, including a seven-cent tumble in Ohio. Midwest, and in particular Great Lakes, states have consistently topped the list of most dramatic price changes.
Only prices in Hawaii are above the $4 per gallon threshold. Drivers in California pay the most in the continental U.S. at $3.98, followed by a handful of states the Northeast including New York and Connecticut at $3.77, and Maine at $3.64. A few Great Lakes region states also have higher-than-average prices, such as Illinois at $3.74, Michigan at $3.71, and Indiana with a per-gallon cost of $3.68.
Lofty domestic crude oil supplies have largely offset geopolitical tensions with Russia and positive U.S. economic data, as crude oil prices continue to trade in a narrow range, according to AAA. West Texas Intermediate crude settled 14 cents higher at $99.60 per barrel on Monday.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
The national average price per gallon is $3.53, 12 cents more expensive than one month ago, but just a penny above one week ago and 14 cents per gallon less than the same date last year.
Pump prices in most states have moved higher over the last week; however prices did fall in 20 states, including a seven-cent tumble in Ohio. Midwest, and in particular Great Lakes, states have consistently topped the list of most dramatic price changes.
Only prices in Hawaii are above the $4 per gallon threshold. Drivers in California pay the most in the continental U.S. at $3.98, followed by a handful of states the Northeast including New York and Connecticut at $3.77, and Maine at $3.64. A few Great Lakes region states also have higher-than-average prices, such as Illinois at $3.74, Michigan at $3.71, and Indiana with a per-gallon cost of $3.68.
Lofty domestic crude oil supplies have largely offset geopolitical tensions with Russia and positive U.S. economic data, as crude oil prices continue to trade in a narrow range, according to AAA. West Texas Intermediate crude settled 14 cents higher at $99.60 per barrel on Monday.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:AAA,Gas Prices,Lockport,News | 0
comments
9:00 AM
| | Edit Post
An updated version of this story can be found here.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
5:14 AM
| | Edit Post
Today's forecast high of 21 is colder than the forecast lows for the next week. After tonight's overnight low of 14, it's just going up. Also, the chance of snow or flurries today has no chance of sticking around.
Thursday's forecast calls for rain with a high of 45 and a low of 37. Friday calls for more rain with a high of 51 and a low of 29. Saturday will bring a chance of rain with a high of 42 and a low of 28.
Sunday offers sunny skies with a high 47 and a low of 34. Monday will be mostly sunny with a high of 54 and a low of 36.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Thursday's forecast calls for rain with a high of 45 and a low of 37. Friday calls for more rain with a high of 51 and a low of 29. Saturday will bring a chance of rain with a high of 42 and a low of 28.
Sunday offers sunny skies with a high 47 and a low of 34. Monday will be mostly sunny with a high of 54 and a low of 36.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Weather | 0
comments
12:52 AM
| | Edit Post
Rodriguez Bembo |
According to a report filed by the Niagara County Sheriff's Office, the complainant was sitting near the phone in POD number two while Rodriguez Bembo, 42, 235 Washington St., Lockport, was using the phone to talk to his girlfriend around 5 p.m Monday. The complaint and Bembo got into an argument because Bembo said he couldn't hear his phone conversation.
The complainant stated "that he was then struck in the left eye by Bembo with a closed fist or the phone," the report states.
The complainant said that he and Bembo began to wrestle around on the floor when a swarm of correction officers stormed into the POD and broke the two of them up. The complainant said that Bembo head butted him in the nose as the correction officers were breaking them apart. Patrol observed heavy swelling around the left eye of the complainant.
Patrol turned over the depositions from both the corrections officer and complainant to a Niagara County Sheriff's investigator, who advised patrol that the complainant's injuries would have to be assessed before a charge is placed against Bembo.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
11:27 PM
| | Edit Post
The Buffalo Sabres held their own for two and a half period of hockey against the Montreal Canadiens. But the last 10 minutes, former Sabres won out.
Max Pacioretty scored the first goal for the Canadiens 10:53 into the final period of regulation on a wrist shot. Former Sabres Captain Thomas Vanek got an assist on the goal. Six minutes and one second later, former Sabres Daniel Briere scored on his own wrist shot.
Sabres goaltender Matt Hackett stopped 33 of 35 shots in the loss.
With the loss, the Sabres are now 20-44-8 on the season. They play again Thursday at Nashville before returning back home to Buffalo for a two-game home stand.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Max Pacioretty scored the first goal for the Canadiens 10:53 into the final period of regulation on a wrist shot. Former Sabres Captain Thomas Vanek got an assist on the goal. Six minutes and one second later, former Sabres Daniel Briere scored on his own wrist shot.
Sabres goaltender Matt Hackett stopped 33 of 35 shots in the loss.
With the loss, the Sabres are now 20-44-8 on the season. They play again Thursday at Nashville before returning back home to Buffalo for a two-game home stand.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
7:20 PM
| | Edit Post
Ralph Cookerly Wilson, Jr. was born in Columbus, Ohio on October 17, 1918. To put that into some perspective, that was a full 10 years before the first television broadcast in the United States occurred. Despite being born before American television was created, Ralph Wilson would go on to use television to expand the game that he loved so much.
He and his family moved to Detroit when Wilson was very young. During World War II, Wilson was a Navy man who served his country on the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. After the war was over, Wilson created an empire that included radio stations, construction companies, and retail outlets. He used his wealth to become a minority owner of the NFL’s Detroit Lions franchise, but being a minority owner wasn’t enough for the ambitious Wilson.
In early 1959, Wilson heard that a man named Lamar Hunt was planning to create a new football league to challenge the NFL. Wilson wanted in and he wanted to put his franchise in Miami. But when Ralph Wilson could not get the lease for the stadium in Miami, he was offered Buffalo. Ralph Wilson decided to put his American Football League franchise in Buffalo and name it the Buffalo Bills.
Some people thought that Wilson had named his team after “Buffalo” Bill Cody and his old Wild West shows. The truth was that Wilson was a smart businessman and he knew that the Buffalo Bills were a franchise that had existed in the defunct All-America Football Conference that was around just prior to the AFL. The fans already knew the name and Wilson wanted to do whatever he could to make pro football a success in Buffalo.
For 10 years, Ralph Wilson and Lamar Hunt kept the AFL in business. Most people don’t realize that Wilson actually loaned Oakland Raiders’ owner Al Davis $400,000 so that Davis could keep his AFL franchise going. Wilson also reached out with financial help to the Boston Patriots so that the AFL could stay financially strong.
The AFL decided to go head to head with the NFL and sign the best college players. The AFL also decided to start courting NFL players with outrageous contracts that turned NFL players into AFL building blocks. Through it all, Ralph Wilson, Jr. never lost that fire to turn his initial $25,000 investment into a success. When it came time for the AFL to merge with the NFL in 1970, Wilson was at the front of the pack. He was ready to take his Buffalo Bills franchise into the big time, but he never took his eye off the business side of things.
Ralph Wilson, Jr. and his wife Mary lived in Grosse Pointe Shores, Michigan with their daughters Linda, Christy, and Edith. Linda was a part of the Bills’ scouting staff until her untimely demise in 2009. Christy works with the team as a merchandising consultant, while Edith has no affiliation with the team at all.
For 54 years, Ralph Wilson guided his franchise from a humble beginning to one of the premier NFL franchises of the 1990’s. Fans outside of Buffalo remember the Bills for losing four consecutive Super Bowls, but Wilson always considered his team to be one of the best in the league.
Ralph Wilson and the Buffalo fans did not always see eye to eye on finances. After the team’s first Super Bowl run, Wilson went on television and complained that his franchise lost money that year. When making the announcement that the Bills would play some games in Toronto, Wilson’s repeated reference to the financial struggles of the Buffalo area grated on the nerves of many fans. But through it all, the fans and Ralph Wilson never lost their mutual love for the Buffalo Bills.
When it would have made a lot of sense to move the team out of Buffalo, Wilson refused to do so. Each time the league and the players’ union would sign a new collective bargaining agreement, Wilson would warn everyone that the NFL is heading in a direction that would make it impossible for small market teams to survive. Despite his own hesitations, Wilson always insisted that Buffalo would be the permanent home of the Bills.
This afternoon, the Buffalo Bills announced that Ralph Wilson, Jr. had passed away at the age of 95. He leaves behind a loving family and a legacy that few others could ever create. He was a pioneer, an innovator, and a hard-driving business man. When he wanted something, he set his sights on getting it. Even though a Super Bowl title eluded him, he was still able to relish his enshrinement into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Whatever you may think about Ralph Wilson, there was no denying his undying dedication to the Buffalo Bills. He may have said some things we did not agree with, but he was always in Buffalo’s corner. He was part of a list of legendary owners that includes Art Rooney of Pittsburgh, Al David of Oakland, and Lamar Hunt of Kansas City.
The city of Buffalo may have accidentally been introduced to Ralph Wilson, but the bond between the man and the city is undeniable.
R.I.P. Mr. Ralph Cookerly Wilson, Jr. You have earned it.
Nick Oliver is a Niagara County resident and football fan. Normally, you can read his column every Wednesday. He can be reached at NickOliver@writeme.com.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Buffalo Bills,Columns,Football,Nick Oliver,Sports | 0
comments
5:53 PM
| | Edit Post
Misty Sink |
Police offered no details other than to say that Misty Sink has been located and is safe.
She had been reported missing this afternoon, having last seen been around 6:30 p.m. on Monday in the area of Eastview Drive and Ernest Road in the Town of Lockport. At the time she was wearing a blue and yellow jacket, navy blue sweat pants and sneakers.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
3:02 PM
| | Edit Post
File Photo |
"I speak for everyone within the Bills organization when I say that we are all suffering a deep and profound sadness," Brandon said. "We have lost our founder, our mentor, our friend, and this is a very difficult time for us all."
Wilson, who founded the Bills in 1959 as an AFL team was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2009.
The Bills won the AFL twice in the 1960s and the team appeared in four straight Super Bowl in the early 1990s.
State Sen. George Mazairz posted to his Facebook page that Wilson was "a true legend who will forever be remembered in WNY."
The Niagara County Legislature also posted to its Facebook page: "The Niagara County Legislature sadly notes the passing of Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson. #Billieve"
Congressman Chris Collins said Wilson was "a true gentleman and friend. While not a local resident, Ralph Wilson keenly understood what it meant to be a Western New Yorker and how much the team he built means to our community. It was my great honor as a Member of Congress and as the former Erie County Executive to work with him, and I am deeply saddened by his loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and the entire Buffalo Bills organization during this time."
Wilson had been pressured to sell the team prior to his death, but refused. There has been concern by fans that Wilson's death would mean the end of the team in Buffalo.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
2:47 PM
| | Edit Post
Click to read the letter in its entirety. |
Maziarz, an executive committee member on the interstate Great Lakes Legislative Caucus, sent a letter to the United States Army Corps of Engineers discussing the dangers of the invasive species that currently poses a tremendous threat to the ecology of native species within Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, and other nearby freshwater resources.
The letter to the Corps of Engineers was sent today as a public comment on its Great Lakes and Mississippi River Inter Basin Study, a study aimed at identifying options and technologies to prevent the movement of aquatic nuisance species between the Great Lakes and Mississippi River basins.
Maziarz wrote, “The need for bold, decisive, preventative action to prevent the invasion of Asian Carp is compelling and demands immediate action as well as effective long term strategies… If a physical separation has the highest potential for effectively halting the spread of Asian Carp and other aquatic invasive species (and I do believe this), then the cost of this approach is worth it in comparison to the profound economic and social costs if Asian Carp establish in the Great Lakes.”
Public comment on the GLMRIS study ends on March 31, 2014.
For more information visit glmris.anl.gov.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
2:08 PM
| | Edit Post
New York State Police charged a Lockport man with marijuana possession on Sunday after a traffic stop on Bowmiller Road.
According the report filed by police, the vehicle was stopped with an expired inspection sticker on Bowmiller and Akron Roads when police found William N. Wittig, 45 of Colonial Drive was in possession of a small quantity of marihuana, a violation.
Wittig was released on appearance tickets returnable to the Town of Lockport Court at 5:30 p.m. on May 15.
Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
According the report filed by police, the vehicle was stopped with an expired inspection sticker on Bowmiller and Akron Roads when police found William N. Wittig, 45 of Colonial Drive was in possession of a small quantity of marihuana, a violation.
Wittig was released on appearance tickets returnable to the Town of Lockport Court at 5:30 p.m. on May 15.
Follow us by email for daily updates of all our stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Labels:Crime,drugs,Lockport,State Police | 0
comments
Subscribe to:
Posts
(Atom)