Saturday, March 29, 2008
ROY-HART CAN DRIVE
The Roy-Hart Junior Class is having a can and bottle drive. Cans will be collected during the budget vote (May 20th) in a bin outside the high school cafeteria.
Friday, March 28, 2008
PANCAKE BREAKFAST IN HARTLAND
As a part of New York's Maple Weekend, the Hartland Fire Company is having an all-you can eat pancake breakfast at the fire hall from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM Sunday, March 30th. Cost is $6.50, complete with homefries, sausage, eggs, juice, and coffee.
WATCH FOR NORTHERN LIGHTS
One thing nice about being as far north as we are: northern lights.
A solar wind swept across the Earth yesterday and there's more on the way. Last night this caused auroras, but, sadly, it was too cloudy to see them. There should be more norther lights tonight and maybe Saturday night, too. It will be cloudy tonight but we should have some peeks at the stars on Saturday.
A solar wind swept across the Earth yesterday and there's more on the way. Last night this caused auroras, but, sadly, it was too cloudy to see them. There should be more norther lights tonight and maybe Saturday night, too. It will be cloudy tonight but we should have some peeks at the stars on Saturday.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
IT'S A COOKBOOK! A COOKBOOK!
The Roy-Hart junior class is selling cookbooks chock full of recipes they collected. This two-year effort is available for $10. To get your copy call school counselor Diana O'Rourke at 735.3722 x 2083.
TROOP 18 SPAGHETTI DINNER THIS SATURDAY!
Boy Scout Troop 18 is having its twelfth annual spaghetti dinner fundraiser this Saturday, March 29th from 4:00 PM to 7:oo PM in the cafeteria at the Covenant United Church on Main Street. Cost for this tasty meal is $7. Proceeds will benefit the Troop and the great outdoors program that it puts on for local youth.
To learn a little more about the troop visit http://www.gasporttroop18.com/
To learn a little more about the troop visit http://www.gasporttroop18.com/
The Troop at work in the kitchen
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
BIG RAFFLE THIS WEEKEND
The Gasport fire department's very popular annual raffle is this Saturday, March 29th from 2:00 to 7:00 at the fire hall. This is a HUGE event.
The raffle prizes include LCD TVs, vacations, rifles, BBQ gear, a wine fridge and more! In total more than $10,000 in prizes! You can see them all by downloading a poster here:
http://www.geocities.com/bob_c14067/gasportraffle.pdf
The raffle prizes include LCD TVs, vacations, rifles, BBQ gear, a wine fridge and more! In total more than $10,000 in prizes! You can see them all by downloading a poster here:
http://www.geocities.com/bob_c14067/gasportraffle.pdf
Food will be served from 2 till 6:30 and you can get beef on weck, salads, sausages, wine and beer.
Tickets are $20 and are almost sold out...so don't plan to buy them at the door! Give the firemen a call at 772.7751.
It's a great event!
FRIEND MANUFACTURING
Gasport was once home to an impressive manufacturer of ag spraying equipment. Friend Manufacturing was founded in 1895 and lasted into the early 1990's. Here's an interesting historical website about the company written with an Australian perspective....
http://www.steamengine.com.au/index.php/ic/engines/252-a-friend-to-the-world
http://www.steamengine.com.au/index.php/ic/engines/252-a-friend-to-the-world
THE ROY-HART BUDGET
The Buffalo News reports on the school budget.....
Roy-Hart budget set for voters
The Royalton- Hartland School Board has adopted a proposed $23.4 million budget for the 2008-09 school year. It will be presented to voters for approval in a May 20 referendum. It represents a 1.21 percent increase over this year’s $23.1 million district spending package. It also calls for a 3.89 percent increase in the property tax levy. This year, the district raised more than $8.4 million in property taxes to help fund district schools. Next year, the board has proposed the tax levy to be raised to $8.8 million.
If voters approve the proposed budget, School Superintendent Paul J. Bona Jr. said, it would raise the property tax rate by anywhere from 81 cents to 96 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation depending on where district residents live.
“The tax rate in Royalton would go up 96 cents, from $24.85 to $25.82 per $1,000. In Hartland, it would go up by 81 cents, from $20.83 to $21.64 per $1,000. It would go up by 81 cents in the Town of Lockport and the Orleans County communities of Ridgeway and Shelby. It would go up by 85 cents in Alabama, which is also in Orleans County,” Bona said. He said the proposed budget should be bolstered by an anticipated increase of about $500,000 in state aid.
Bona said Roy-Hart received roughly $12.8 million in state aid this year and expects that figure to move up to somewhere near the $13.3 million mark, once a state budget is approved.
Bona said the board cut no programs but was able to cut some costs by putting a hold on equipment requests and reducing a handful of jobs through attrition, which it was able to do because of declining enrollment.
“We have about 1,500 students this year. Our student enrollment had dropped by about 200 students over the last five years,” he said. “I think this is an educationally responsible budget. It’s certainly sensitive to the two missions of the school district and the Board of Education, which are to be sensitive to the community which supports education and to provide the highest quality educational program to our students,” Bona said.
Roy-Hart budget set for voters
The Royalton- Hartland School Board has adopted a proposed $23.4 million budget for the 2008-09 school year. It will be presented to voters for approval in a May 20 referendum. It represents a 1.21 percent increase over this year’s $23.1 million district spending package. It also calls for a 3.89 percent increase in the property tax levy. This year, the district raised more than $8.4 million in property taxes to help fund district schools. Next year, the board has proposed the tax levy to be raised to $8.8 million.
If voters approve the proposed budget, School Superintendent Paul J. Bona Jr. said, it would raise the property tax rate by anywhere from 81 cents to 96 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation depending on where district residents live.
“The tax rate in Royalton would go up 96 cents, from $24.85 to $25.82 per $1,000. In Hartland, it would go up by 81 cents, from $20.83 to $21.64 per $1,000. It would go up by 81 cents in the Town of Lockport and the Orleans County communities of Ridgeway and Shelby. It would go up by 85 cents in Alabama, which is also in Orleans County,” Bona said. He said the proposed budget should be bolstered by an anticipated increase of about $500,000 in state aid.
Bona said Roy-Hart received roughly $12.8 million in state aid this year and expects that figure to move up to somewhere near the $13.3 million mark, once a state budget is approved.
Bona said the board cut no programs but was able to cut some costs by putting a hold on equipment requests and reducing a handful of jobs through attrition, which it was able to do because of declining enrollment.
“We have about 1,500 students this year. Our student enrollment had dropped by about 200 students over the last five years,” he said. “I think this is an educationally responsible budget. It’s certainly sensitive to the two missions of the school district and the Board of Education, which are to be sensitive to the community which supports education and to provide the highest quality educational program to our students,” Bona said.
Source: http://www.buffalonews.com/cityregion/niagaracounty/story/306710.html
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
SWIM NIGHT AT HIGH SCHOOL
This Wednesday, March 26th is the community swimming night at the high school. Families are welcome to attend from 5:30 to 7:00. Cost is $1.
15 DOLLARS ON THE ERIE CANAL
The old song used to go: "15 miles on the Erie Canal".
Well, times change. It's now 15 DOLLARS on the Erie Canal.
The NYS Canal Corporation, the state entity that runs the canal, will charge boaters to use our waterway this year. Any craft passing through a lift bridge or lock must have a pass. Season passes are:
$25 for a boat under 16'
$50 for a boat 16' to 26' in length
$75 for 26' to 39' craft
$100 for anything bigger
You can buy your pass at the locks in Lockport or at the Canal Corporation regional office in Albion. You can also dowload a form online at this website:
http://www.nyscanals.gov/exvac/boating/bctolls.html
Another tourism and recreation bummer for 2008: daily navigation hours will be 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, five hours less than they traditionally have been. So, anyone wanting to appreciate a nice Saturday morning or an after-work evening on the Canal is a little limited in what they can do.
Well, times change. It's now 15 DOLLARS on the Erie Canal.
The NYS Canal Corporation, the state entity that runs the canal, will charge boaters to use our waterway this year. Any craft passing through a lift bridge or lock must have a pass. Season passes are:
$25 for a boat under 16'
$50 for a boat 16' to 26' in length
$75 for 26' to 39' craft
$100 for anything bigger
You can buy your pass at the locks in Lockport or at the Canal Corporation regional office in Albion. You can also dowload a form online at this website:
http://www.nyscanals.gov/exvac/boating/bctolls.html
Another tourism and recreation bummer for 2008: daily navigation hours will be 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, five hours less than they traditionally have been. So, anyone wanting to appreciate a nice Saturday morning or an after-work evening on the Canal is a little limited in what they can do.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
ROY-HART'S BUDGET INCREASE
The school board has approved the district's preliminary budget for 08'-'09. The new $23.4 million plan is 1.21 % higher than last year, requiring a 3.89% increase in the tax levy, yet another in a long line of fair-sized jumps. You can vote on this budget on May 20th.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
BEAUTIFY GASPORT WITH A BANNER
The Gasport Beautification Committee has teamed up with the Niagara County Bicentennial Committee to celebrate Niagara County's 200th birthday.You can help, too. The committee is looking for sponsors (businesses, organizations, families) to buy 30" x 60" banners that will proudly be displayed on Main Street till the end of the year. Cost is $200.
For more information, call Linda Drum at 772.7152.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
SUPPORT THE SCOUTS: BUY A DINNER TICKET
Boy Scout Troop 18 is having its twelfth annual spaghetti dinner fundraiser on Saturday, March 29th from 4:00 PM to 7:oo PM in the cafeteria at the Covenant United Church on Main Street. Cost for this tasty meal is $7 at the door and $6 pre-sale. For tickets, call Dan at 772.5090.
Proceeds will benefit the Troop and the great outdoors program that it puts on for local youth. To learn a little more about the troop visit www.GasportTroop18.com
Proceeds will benefit the Troop and the great outdoors program that it puts on for local youth. To learn a little more about the troop visit www.GasportTroop18.com
ROY-HART'S EASTER BREAK
The schools will be closed for a long Easter weekend that runs from Thursday through Monday.
Monday, March 17, 2008
MEET NY'S NEW GOVERNOR
My column appearing in this week's papers....
DAVID PATERSON’S BLACK EYE
By Bob Confer
When Eliot Spitzer was elected to office in 2006 by a record-setting 69% of the vote, his massive victory was declared a mandate of the people. The voters wanted serious change, someone who would come into Albany and clean-up all the dirt. Here it is, not even a year and a half later, and the man who fed that incredible optimism has proven to be no better than the rest and, actually, dirtier than most. Spitzer has left office with a reign that will be recognized as the greatest political letdown in the history of the State.
The disappointed people of New York are now on the emotional rebound, with folks from Niagara Falls to Long Island focusing a new and unbridled sense of optimism upon the man who now takes the reigns of our state, David Paterson. Elected officials and the press have trumped up his status, appropriately citing his successes against adversity (his blindness) while exaggerating his executive wherewithal.
It’s unfortunate that we can’t learn from our mistakes. Optimism can be a good thing, but too much of it can blind reality (as was the case with Spitzer). Politicians, especially those with the absolute power of executive branch, need to be looked at with a discerning eye. A lifelong politician like David Paterson has a body of work that can be analyzed to the nth degree. It hasn’t been, probably because all of the media attention has been trained on Spitzer’s adultery and law breaking. So, we are led into this new era believing that Paterson is absolutely wonderful and without flaw.
Truthfully, he is just as his predecessor was and like many of his Albany peers, a man with flaws and a symbol of what’s wrong in the State Capital. Paterson comes into office with some very timely and damning baggage: In an order issued one month ago by US District Court Judge Norman Mordue, a lawsuit against New York State is allowed to progress to trial because substantial material fact was provided by the plaintiff, Joseph Maioriello, who believes that he was fired by the Senate (specifically Patterson’s office) based solely on race.
For 26 years Maioriello – who is white - was an at-will employee of the Assembly and Senate, serving as a photographer and cable television coordinator. Reporting to specific elected officials as part of their support staff, he had to re-submit his application following the completion of every two-year election cycle. A good employee, he was rewarded with constant contract renewals.
In March of 2003, three months into a post-election legislative cycle, Maioriello was unceremoniously terminated. This coincided with Paterson’s rise to prominence as the Senate Minority leader. Once he took control of the Democratic caucus Paterson decided to make some changes to the support staff, which included the dismissal of Maioriello and replacing him with a black photographer.
Stunned, Maioriello inquired about his job loss and was told by one of his supervisors that it was due to poor job performance. Considering that his quality of work was never called into question and there was no evidence of any negative reports such as unsatisfactory performance appraisals or write-ups, he pressed the issue even further, going to Paterson’s chief deputy, John McPadden. According to court records, Maioriello said the conversation progressed as follows:
McPadden: "Senator Paterson is relieving you of your duties. There are certain minority senators…people of color…who want to replace you…by another photographer."
Maioriello: "Why?"
McPadden: "You know who it is. They want to replace you with a minority photographer. A black photographer"
Maioriello: "Why?"
McPadden: "You got to remember who Senator Paterson is. Senator Paterson is black."
Highlighting the plaintiff’s claim is evidence that the black photographer received preferential treatment under Paterson’s watch. In his 26th year of service, Maioriello was paid $34,206. Upon taking that same role, his replacement, El-Wise Noisette, was paid $48,000.
McPadden denies any wrongdoing. So, does our new Governor. As a matter of fact, Paterson said that given his visual impairment he would not know if a photographer was black or white. Half in jest, half in truth, his comment did not carry weight with the judge.
So, now this goes on to trial, one the jury of which will probably decide in Maioriello’s favor based upon this and other significant amounts of evidence. The outcome will not be a pittance, either: Maioriello is seeking $1.5 million in damages.
Temper your enthusiasm for Paterson - a self-proclaimed "bomb thrower" – with this bombshell. It is one of many stories bound to come out in the coming months. He’s not the choir boy that we are supposed to believe he is….just like the guy before him.
DAVID PATERSON’S BLACK EYE
By Bob Confer
When Eliot Spitzer was elected to office in 2006 by a record-setting 69% of the vote, his massive victory was declared a mandate of the people. The voters wanted serious change, someone who would come into Albany and clean-up all the dirt. Here it is, not even a year and a half later, and the man who fed that incredible optimism has proven to be no better than the rest and, actually, dirtier than most. Spitzer has left office with a reign that will be recognized as the greatest political letdown in the history of the State.
The disappointed people of New York are now on the emotional rebound, with folks from Niagara Falls to Long Island focusing a new and unbridled sense of optimism upon the man who now takes the reigns of our state, David Paterson. Elected officials and the press have trumped up his status, appropriately citing his successes against adversity (his blindness) while exaggerating his executive wherewithal.
It’s unfortunate that we can’t learn from our mistakes. Optimism can be a good thing, but too much of it can blind reality (as was the case with Spitzer). Politicians, especially those with the absolute power of executive branch, need to be looked at with a discerning eye. A lifelong politician like David Paterson has a body of work that can be analyzed to the nth degree. It hasn’t been, probably because all of the media attention has been trained on Spitzer’s adultery and law breaking. So, we are led into this new era believing that Paterson is absolutely wonderful and without flaw.
Truthfully, he is just as his predecessor was and like many of his Albany peers, a man with flaws and a symbol of what’s wrong in the State Capital. Paterson comes into office with some very timely and damning baggage: In an order issued one month ago by US District Court Judge Norman Mordue, a lawsuit against New York State is allowed to progress to trial because substantial material fact was provided by the plaintiff, Joseph Maioriello, who believes that he was fired by the Senate (specifically Patterson’s office) based solely on race.
For 26 years Maioriello – who is white - was an at-will employee of the Assembly and Senate, serving as a photographer and cable television coordinator. Reporting to specific elected officials as part of their support staff, he had to re-submit his application following the completion of every two-year election cycle. A good employee, he was rewarded with constant contract renewals.
In March of 2003, three months into a post-election legislative cycle, Maioriello was unceremoniously terminated. This coincided with Paterson’s rise to prominence as the Senate Minority leader. Once he took control of the Democratic caucus Paterson decided to make some changes to the support staff, which included the dismissal of Maioriello and replacing him with a black photographer.
Stunned, Maioriello inquired about his job loss and was told by one of his supervisors that it was due to poor job performance. Considering that his quality of work was never called into question and there was no evidence of any negative reports such as unsatisfactory performance appraisals or write-ups, he pressed the issue even further, going to Paterson’s chief deputy, John McPadden. According to court records, Maioriello said the conversation progressed as follows:
McPadden: "Senator Paterson is relieving you of your duties. There are certain minority senators…people of color…who want to replace you…by another photographer."
Maioriello: "Why?"
McPadden: "You know who it is. They want to replace you with a minority photographer. A black photographer"
Maioriello: "Why?"
McPadden: "You got to remember who Senator Paterson is. Senator Paterson is black."
Highlighting the plaintiff’s claim is evidence that the black photographer received preferential treatment under Paterson’s watch. In his 26th year of service, Maioriello was paid $34,206. Upon taking that same role, his replacement, El-Wise Noisette, was paid $48,000.
McPadden denies any wrongdoing. So, does our new Governor. As a matter of fact, Paterson said that given his visual impairment he would not know if a photographer was black or white. Half in jest, half in truth, his comment did not carry weight with the judge.
So, now this goes on to trial, one the jury of which will probably decide in Maioriello’s favor based upon this and other significant amounts of evidence. The outcome will not be a pittance, either: Maioriello is seeking $1.5 million in damages.
Temper your enthusiasm for Paterson - a self-proclaimed "bomb thrower" – with this bombshell. It is one of many stories bound to come out in the coming months. He’s not the choir boy that we are supposed to believe he is….just like the guy before him.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
ST. MARY'S TRANSITION MEETING
St. Mary's Catholic church is having an informational meeting for all its worshippers on April 1st at 7:00 PM in the basement of the church. The topic of discussion will be the transition into Lockport's St. John's church slated for June of this year. You will hear about why the diocese is doing this and what to expect from the change. St. John's higher-ups will be there to give a lowdown on how they worship at their church.
WARREN HULL MOVIE ON TV THIS WEEK
A tip from one of our readers....
Warren Hull Movie on TCM at 2:15 pm
Date: Thu, Mar 20, 2008
The movie "Love Begins at Twenty" will be playing on Turner Classic Movies, station 54 on Time Warner. Warren Hull, is a Gasport Native and a movie star from 1930's and 40's. He even has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Warren Hull Movie on TCM at 2:15 pm
Date: Thu, Mar 20, 2008
The movie "Love Begins at Twenty" will be playing on Turner Classic Movies, station 54 on Time Warner. Warren Hull, is a Gasport Native and a movie star from 1930's and 40's. He even has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
THE FUTURE OF ERIE CANAL MANAGEMENT
There's a bill now floating around Albany that would give the Erie Canal its own public authority, taking management away from the Thruway Authority. Read about it at New York Canal Times here:
http://www.nycanaltimes.com/pages/articledetails.asp?cat=69&art=1325
http://www.nycanaltimes.com/pages/articledetails.asp?cat=69&art=1325
GASPORT MAN GETS JAIL TIME FOR SEX ABUSE
The Lockport Union Sun and Journal reports.....
A Hartland man was sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty to sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl. Norman C. Sonberg, 51, of Ridge Road, received the sentence Friday in Niagara County Court after a last-minute effort to take back his plea to first-degree sexual abuse, a violent felony. Sonberg pleaded guilty Jan. 16, but told Judge Sara Sheldon Sperrazza on Friday that he wished to instead take the case to trial because he had been on medication that day and did not understand the plea. Sperrazza denied the request, telling Sonberg and his attorney, Public Defender Michelle Bergevin, that she had asked him during the plea proceedings if he was on any medication.“I gave him an opportunity to tell me that,” Sperrazza said. “I asked him whether or not the medication that day ... had affected his ability to think clear-headed.”
Sonberg had been named in a 15-count indictment on charges including second-degree criminal sexual act, forcible touching and second-degree rape. The teenage victim and her family were in the courtroom Friday, but the girl got up and left when Assistant District Attorney Robert Zucco began speaking about what she had gone through.“She has had a very difficult time talking about what happened to her,” Zucco said. “It has had an extreme impact on her. I know she’s going to have a tough time.” Zucco said Sonberg’s attempt to withdraw his plea was “more evidence of the defendant’s refusal to accept responsibility for his actions, and his complete lack of empathy for the victim.”
Bergevin said Sonberg does not accept responsibility because he denies he committed the crime. “He tells me it’s because he did not do this crime, and he would like the opportunity to take this to trial,” she said. On top of the five-year sentence, Sonberg was sentenced to three years of post-release supervision and must also register as a sex offender upon his release. The victim was granted a 10-year order of protection.
Source: http://www.lockportjournal.com/local/local_story_075022739.html
A Hartland man was sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty to sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl. Norman C. Sonberg, 51, of Ridge Road, received the sentence Friday in Niagara County Court after a last-minute effort to take back his plea to first-degree sexual abuse, a violent felony. Sonberg pleaded guilty Jan. 16, but told Judge Sara Sheldon Sperrazza on Friday that he wished to instead take the case to trial because he had been on medication that day and did not understand the plea. Sperrazza denied the request, telling Sonberg and his attorney, Public Defender Michelle Bergevin, that she had asked him during the plea proceedings if he was on any medication.“I gave him an opportunity to tell me that,” Sperrazza said. “I asked him whether or not the medication that day ... had affected his ability to think clear-headed.”
Sonberg had been named in a 15-count indictment on charges including second-degree criminal sexual act, forcible touching and second-degree rape. The teenage victim and her family were in the courtroom Friday, but the girl got up and left when Assistant District Attorney Robert Zucco began speaking about what she had gone through.“She has had a very difficult time talking about what happened to her,” Zucco said. “It has had an extreme impact on her. I know she’s going to have a tough time.” Zucco said Sonberg’s attempt to withdraw his plea was “more evidence of the defendant’s refusal to accept responsibility for his actions, and his complete lack of empathy for the victim.”
Bergevin said Sonberg does not accept responsibility because he denies he committed the crime. “He tells me it’s because he did not do this crime, and he would like the opportunity to take this to trial,” she said. On top of the five-year sentence, Sonberg was sentenced to three years of post-release supervision and must also register as a sex offender upon his release. The victim was granted a 10-year order of protection.
Source: http://www.lockportjournal.com/local/local_story_075022739.html
Friday, March 14, 2008
LOCKPORT TEACHER IN ROYALTON COURT
One of the highest profile stories in local news this year has been that of a Lockport teacher (and Gasport resident) who has been in trouble with the law for DWI. Here's a Buffalo News report on last night's happenings....
Suspended teacher in court for second of 3 DWI counts
ROYALTON — A suspended Roy B. Kelley Elementary School teacher appeared in Royalton Court on Thursday, facing the second of three charges of driving while intoxicated leveled against her in less than year. The case was adjourned to April 10.
Marcy L. Cole, 35, of Gasport, was arrested on Gasport Road in October, clocked by Niagara County sheriff’s deputies driving 90 mph in a 45-mph zone. She was charged with speeding, driving while intoxicated and aggravated unlicensed operation. Her license had been revoked in November after being convicted April 18 of driving while intoxicated in the Town of Lockport.
While these charges were pending, her car was found in a ditch just before 4 p.m. Jan. 10 on Day Road in the Town of Lockport, and she was charged with felony driving while intoxicated, authorities said.
The charge came just a few days after Cole was suspended from her fourth-grade teaching position for the remainder of the school year by Lockport Superintendent Terry Ann Car-bone following several complaints by parents about allegedly inappropriate conduct.
Suspended teacher in court for second of 3 DWI counts
ROYALTON — A suspended Roy B. Kelley Elementary School teacher appeared in Royalton Court on Thursday, facing the second of three charges of driving while intoxicated leveled against her in less than year. The case was adjourned to April 10.
Marcy L. Cole, 35, of Gasport, was arrested on Gasport Road in October, clocked by Niagara County sheriff’s deputies driving 90 mph in a 45-mph zone. She was charged with speeding, driving while intoxicated and aggravated unlicensed operation. Her license had been revoked in November after being convicted April 18 of driving while intoxicated in the Town of Lockport.
While these charges were pending, her car was found in a ditch just before 4 p.m. Jan. 10 on Day Road in the Town of Lockport, and she was charged with felony driving while intoxicated, authorities said.
The charge came just a few days after Cole was suspended from her fourth-grade teaching position for the remainder of the school year by Lockport Superintendent Terry Ann Car-bone following several complaints by parents about allegedly inappropriate conduct.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
ROYALTON'S MASTER PLAN MEETING
ROYALTON: Residents share opinions on master plan
By Bill Wolcott, Lockport Union-Sun & Journal
ROYALTON — Town residents gave master planners a lot to digest at the first public meeting on the Town of Royalton Comprehensive Plan on Wednesday at the town hall. About 60 people attended, and there was 120 minutes of continuous input that was fielded by Andrew C. Reilly and Ellen Parker of Wendel-Duchscherer Architects and Engineers. After an open house, where residents could review maps of the town to see where the town is, opinions were invited — and there were lots of them, virtually non-stop. Issues ranged from agriculture to zoning.
“People can tell us much more than a map can tell us. They will tell us what’s actually going on here,” Reilly said. Parker asked “Where do you want to be in the future?”
Other questions from residents included:
• How does Royalton fit in the Golden Horseshoe, a megalopolis stretching from Toronto around Lake Ontario to Rochester with Buffalo in the middle? Land is at a premium in Ontario around the lake, and Canadians are buying property on the southern shores.
• Where should there be commercial development and residential development?
Residents were told that change is inevitable, but there were some voices of resistance.“This was excellent,” said Supervisor Richard Lang. “This was great for the town to have this much input from citizens. I think they want a rural atmosphere with an agriculture base, with a leaning to have businesses in the hamlets and villages. Residential is still to be determined.”
Reilly told of the importance of having a good plan. “You know the community better than we do,” he said. “You tell us. What are your issues. The state and federal government will help you. These are not things you can not do overnight. Change will happen whether you like it or not.”
Residents also stressed that Royalton is a canal community, an historic community, and that should be an asset. Other opinions voiced: Royalton needs a community center for families. Also, with more train traffic and railroad cars carrying ethanol, Royalton needs an emergency plan.“I think that they want to make sure what they value most about Royalton, they get to maintain that,” Parker said. “The neighborhoods, the rural atmosphere, the farm land, the open space, the woodlands, they want to work to keep it.”
Al Wrobolewski, who owns 115 acres in the middle of the town, thought the master plan was a joke. “It’s my land — I can do what I want with it,” he said.
By Bill Wolcott, Lockport Union-Sun & Journal
ROYALTON — Town residents gave master planners a lot to digest at the first public meeting on the Town of Royalton Comprehensive Plan on Wednesday at the town hall. About 60 people attended, and there was 120 minutes of continuous input that was fielded by Andrew C. Reilly and Ellen Parker of Wendel-Duchscherer Architects and Engineers. After an open house, where residents could review maps of the town to see where the town is, opinions were invited — and there were lots of them, virtually non-stop. Issues ranged from agriculture to zoning.
“People can tell us much more than a map can tell us. They will tell us what’s actually going on here,” Reilly said. Parker asked “Where do you want to be in the future?”
Other questions from residents included:
• How does Royalton fit in the Golden Horseshoe, a megalopolis stretching from Toronto around Lake Ontario to Rochester with Buffalo in the middle? Land is at a premium in Ontario around the lake, and Canadians are buying property on the southern shores.
• Where should there be commercial development and residential development?
Residents were told that change is inevitable, but there were some voices of resistance.“This was excellent,” said Supervisor Richard Lang. “This was great for the town to have this much input from citizens. I think they want a rural atmosphere with an agriculture base, with a leaning to have businesses in the hamlets and villages. Residential is still to be determined.”
Reilly told of the importance of having a good plan. “You know the community better than we do,” he said. “You tell us. What are your issues. The state and federal government will help you. These are not things you can not do overnight. Change will happen whether you like it or not.”
Residents also stressed that Royalton is a canal community, an historic community, and that should be an asset. Other opinions voiced: Royalton needs a community center for families. Also, with more train traffic and railroad cars carrying ethanol, Royalton needs an emergency plan.“I think that they want to make sure what they value most about Royalton, they get to maintain that,” Parker said. “The neighborhoods, the rural atmosphere, the farm land, the open space, the woodlands, they want to work to keep it.”
Al Wrobolewski, who owns 115 acres in the middle of the town, thought the master plan was a joke. “It’s my land — I can do what I want with it,” he said.
Source: http://www.lockportjournal.com/local/local_story_073023642.html
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
SPITZER CASTS A DARK SHADOW OVER NEW YORK
Yesterday I was a guest on WLVL 1340 at 6:30 AM as a part of newsman Doug Young's interview series. He and I talked about Eliot Spitzer's prostitution fiasco, how the impeachment process works in NYS, and why back-up governor David Patterson has baggage. If you missed it, you can listen to the 8 minute interview here:
http://media.libsyn.com/media/wlvl/DYI_-_Bob_Confer_-_031108.mp3
http://media.libsyn.com/media/wlvl/DYI_-_Bob_Confer_-_031108.mp3
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
HMP HOME IMPROVEMENT GETS ZONING OKAY
Below is a Lockport US&J recap of last night's rezoning hearing at the Royalton Town Hall. I'm glad this went through for HMP. Harry Illenz and his crew are good people. They put up my new roof last fall and are in the process rebuilding the upstairs area of my home. His neighbors won't be hurt in any way by the presence of his office...knowing Harry he will keep everything clean, attractive, and professional.
ROYALTON: Town board OKs H.M.P. rezoning
By Bill Wolcott
ROYALTON — The town board approved rezoning of property at 7551 Dysinger Road on Monday, clearing the way for H.M.P. Home Improvement. The change from residential did not sit well with neighbor Warner Tucciarone, however, who said, “I’ll have to bring in an attorney on this — Al Sharpton.” Town attorney Thomas H. Brandt apparently did not take Tucciarone too seriously and responded, “He’s busy with the governor right now.”
During the public hearing, there were some serious objections to putting the H.M.P. office in the neighborhood. “There are a lot of places to put a business, but not across the street for my house,” a neighbor said. “The area is residential. Business is not a good fit for the area. No one knocked my door. It’s not neighborly or nice.” H.M.P. has been in business for five years, and president Harry Illenz answered questions from the residents. He said there wouldn’t be any heavy equipment, and the business would have nice landscaping.
“In hindsight, I wish that I had (talked to the neighbors),” Illenz said. “I came to the town and got direction from them. I never tried to rezone a property before and thought I did everything correct.”Some voiced support for the business. Councilman Lee Criswell, who voted in favor of rezoning concluded, “He went through proper channels but should have talked to the neighbors.” Illenz still has to get site plan approval and hopes to start building in April.
Source: http://www.lockportjournal.com/local/local_story_071023200.html
ROYALTON: Town board OKs H.M.P. rezoning
By Bill Wolcott
ROYALTON — The town board approved rezoning of property at 7551 Dysinger Road on Monday, clearing the way for H.M.P. Home Improvement. The change from residential did not sit well with neighbor Warner Tucciarone, however, who said, “I’ll have to bring in an attorney on this — Al Sharpton.” Town attorney Thomas H. Brandt apparently did not take Tucciarone too seriously and responded, “He’s busy with the governor right now.”
During the public hearing, there were some serious objections to putting the H.M.P. office in the neighborhood. “There are a lot of places to put a business, but not across the street for my house,” a neighbor said. “The area is residential. Business is not a good fit for the area. No one knocked my door. It’s not neighborly or nice.” H.M.P. has been in business for five years, and president Harry Illenz answered questions from the residents. He said there wouldn’t be any heavy equipment, and the business would have nice landscaping.
“In hindsight, I wish that I had (talked to the neighbors),” Illenz said. “I came to the town and got direction from them. I never tried to rezone a property before and thought I did everything correct.”Some voiced support for the business. Councilman Lee Criswell, who voted in favor of rezoning concluded, “He went through proper channels but should have talked to the neighbors.” Illenz still has to get site plan approval and hopes to start building in April.
Source: http://www.lockportjournal.com/local/local_story_071023200.html
ASSESSOR ARLINGTON INTERVIEWED BY US&J
Q&A: Assessing Royalton and state property taxes
By Bill Wolcott, Lockport Union-Sun & Journal
Thomas L. Arlington, 60, has been the assessor in the Town of Royalton for 27 years. The town recently completed an assessment and sent out notices to property owners on Feb. 29.
A Royalton native, Arlington graduated from Royalton-Hartland and Erie Community College in the civil technology program. He is also the code enforcement officer.
Arlington began informal hearings with town residents concerned with their assessment on Friday. There is a town board meeting today at the town hall. Arlington conducts informal hearings at 5316 Royalton Center Road. The Grievance Day is the fourth Tuesday in May.There are 3,855 parcels in the town and the last Royalton revaluation was done in 2004.
To see the interview, visit this link:
http://www.lockportjournal.com/archivesearch/local_story_069232556.html
By Bill Wolcott, Lockport Union-Sun & Journal
Thomas L. Arlington, 60, has been the assessor in the Town of Royalton for 27 years. The town recently completed an assessment and sent out notices to property owners on Feb. 29.
A Royalton native, Arlington graduated from Royalton-Hartland and Erie Community College in the civil technology program. He is also the code enforcement officer.
Arlington began informal hearings with town residents concerned with their assessment on Friday. There is a town board meeting today at the town hall. Arlington conducts informal hearings at 5316 Royalton Center Road. The Grievance Day is the fourth Tuesday in May.There are 3,855 parcels in the town and the last Royalton revaluation was done in 2004.
To see the interview, visit this link:
http://www.lockportjournal.com/archivesearch/local_story_069232556.html
Sunday, March 9, 2008
THE WEEKEND'S WINTER STORM
This past weekend Gasport was socked by its biggest winter storm in about 5 years. From Friday afternoon through early Sunday morning we received 22" of snow, all of this on top of the 6" of snow and ice we got earlier in the week. Winds picked up considerably on Saturday (gusts in excess of 32 mph), making for some treacherous driving in the wide open farm roads. Luckily, few people ventured out onto the roads and there were very few police calls to Gasport this weekend for the usual "car in a ditch". The wind made for a lot of work...as soon as a driveway was plowed or a sidedwalk shoveled, it filled right back in. We were also greeted with a rare winter electrical storm on Saturday evening. About 10 bouts of thunder and lightning echoed through the town around 6:00.
ST. PATTY'S DAY PARTY AT TERRY'S CORNERS
The Terrys Corners Fire Deaprtment is throwing a St. Patrick's Day party at their hall in Terry's Corners on Saturday, March 15th at 7:00 PM. Entertainment will be provided by Ike Smith and the Boogie Monsters.
Tickets are $3 at the door and $1 pre-sale (available at Durf's Tires on Route 31).
Ike Smith's website is:
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=177588006
Terry's Corners is:
http://www.terryscorners.com/
Tickets are $3 at the door and $1 pre-sale (available at Durf's Tires on Route 31).
Ike Smith's website is:
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=177588006
Terry's Corners is:
http://www.terryscorners.com/
Saturday, March 8, 2008
HAM AND TURKEY RAFFLE POSTPONED
Due to the weather, tonight's ham and turkey raffle at the Hartland Fire Hall has been rescheduled to next Saturday, March 15th.
PUBLIC MEETING TO ADDRESS ROYALTON's FUTURE ON MARCH 12TH
The town of Royalton is in the planning stages of their new master plan and they’re looking for your help.
There will be a public meeting on Wednesday, March 12th at 7:00 PM at the Royalton Town Hall at which everyone is encouraged to provide opinions and input as to where the town should be going. Topics that will be discussed include farm preservation, natural resources preservation, community character, residential development, and zoning and land use.
If you cannot attend, you can submit your ideas in writing to the town’s engineer for this project:
Ellen Parker
Wendel Duchscherer
140 John James Audubon Parkway, Suite 201
Amherst, NY 14228
Or
eparker@wd-ae.com
There will be a public meeting on Wednesday, March 12th at 7:00 PM at the Royalton Town Hall at which everyone is encouraged to provide opinions and input as to where the town should be going. Topics that will be discussed include farm preservation, natural resources preservation, community character, residential development, and zoning and land use.
If you cannot attend, you can submit your ideas in writing to the town’s engineer for this project:
Ellen Parker
Wendel Duchscherer
140 John James Audubon Parkway, Suite 201
Amherst, NY 14228
Or
eparker@wd-ae.com
HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEETS THIS MONDAY
The Hartland Historical Society meets this Monday at 7:00 PM at the town hall. This month's guest, Patricia Degan, will talk about Niagara Hospice. The public is welcome to attend.
Friday, March 7, 2008
FRIDAY BINGO IS CANCELLED
Friday's regularly-scheduled Bingo at the Gasport fire hall has been cancelled due to the storm.
SCHOOL DISTRICT BEING AUDITED
The Lockport Union Sun and Journal reports....
Royalton Hartland School District is being audited by the state comptroller’s office. The audits are required by state law and have been done since 2005. New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli announced Friday his office has began audits of the district along with a few other school districts, charter schools and Boards of Cooperative Educational Services. The press release districts are being audited “in order to improve accountability of the state’s schools.” DiNapoli’s office will audit all of New York’s 834 school districts, BOCES and charter schools by 2010. The state has completed 378 school audits and approximately 200 audits are currently underway.
Royalton Hartland School District is being audited by the state comptroller’s office. The audits are required by state law and have been done since 2005. New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli announced Friday his office has began audits of the district along with a few other school districts, charter schools and Boards of Cooperative Educational Services. The press release districts are being audited “in order to improve accountability of the state’s schools.” DiNapoli’s office will audit all of New York’s 834 school districts, BOCES and charter schools by 2010. The state has completed 378 school audits and approximately 200 audits are currently underway.
ROY-HART PRE-K FOR 2008-2009 SCHOOL YEAR
Do you have a rugrat who'll be four years old before December 1st? If so, the kid is eligible for pre-k (read "Preschool") at Roy-Hart. The school has started accepting applications. Complete information and application forms (due April 10th) are available at the school district's website: http://www.royhart.org/Pre_K.htm
GASPORT AND WINTER STORMS GO HAND IN HAND
It's like a broken record this year. Gasport is facing ANOTHER winter storm warning, effective this evening into Sunday morning. Here's the report from the government:
...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM EST THIS AFTERNOON TO 8 AM EDT SUNDAY...
THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN BUFFALO HAS UPGRADED THE WINTER STORM WATCH TO A WINTER STORM WARNING. IT IS IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM EST THIS AFTERNOON TO 8 AM EDT SUNDAY.
WET SNOW IS EXPECTED TO START ACROSS THE SOUTHERN TIER LATE THIS MORNING THEN SPREAD QUICKLY NORTH AND EAST. IT MAY MIX WITH RAIN OVER SOME AREAS. ACCUMULATIONS BY EVENING WILL ONLY BE AN INCH OR SO. MORE INCHES OF SNOW IS EXPECTED OVERNIGHT. THERE MAY BE A FEW HOUR LULL SATURDAY MORNING BUT SNOW WILL RESUME DURING THE DAY. IT WILL LIKELY MIX WITH SLEET...ESPECIALLY FROM THE GENESEE VALLEY EAST BUT ACCUMULATIONS WILL CONTINUE.
THE WORST WEATHER WILL COME SATURDAY NIGHT AS SNOW CONTINUES COUPLED WITH INCREASING AND GUSTY WINDS. THIS WILL CAUSE POOR DRIVING CONDITIONS IN BLOWING AND DRIFTING SNOW. TOTAL STORM ACCUMULATIONS BY SUNDAY MORNING MAY EXCEED A FOOT.
...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM EST THIS AFTERNOON TO 8 AM EDT SUNDAY...
THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN BUFFALO HAS UPGRADED THE WINTER STORM WATCH TO A WINTER STORM WARNING. IT IS IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM EST THIS AFTERNOON TO 8 AM EDT SUNDAY.
WET SNOW IS EXPECTED TO START ACROSS THE SOUTHERN TIER LATE THIS MORNING THEN SPREAD QUICKLY NORTH AND EAST. IT MAY MIX WITH RAIN OVER SOME AREAS. ACCUMULATIONS BY EVENING WILL ONLY BE AN INCH OR SO. MORE INCHES OF SNOW IS EXPECTED OVERNIGHT. THERE MAY BE A FEW HOUR LULL SATURDAY MORNING BUT SNOW WILL RESUME DURING THE DAY. IT WILL LIKELY MIX WITH SLEET...ESPECIALLY FROM THE GENESEE VALLEY EAST BUT ACCUMULATIONS WILL CONTINUE.
THE WORST WEATHER WILL COME SATURDAY NIGHT AS SNOW CONTINUES COUPLED WITH INCREASING AND GUSTY WINDS. THIS WILL CAUSE POOR DRIVING CONDITIONS IN BLOWING AND DRIFTING SNOW. TOTAL STORM ACCUMULATIONS BY SUNDAY MORNING MAY EXCEED A FOOT.
DON'T FORGET YOUR CLOCKS
This weekend you've got to set your clocks ahead. Do so before you go to bed on Saturday. I'm looking forward to it...more daylight when I get home from work.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
BRACE FOR NOISE ON TUESDAY
Brace for some noise on Tuesday, March 11th at 7:00 PM. What you'll be hearing is NOT an air raid, but rather a birthday celebration. The County is celebrating it's 200th birthday on Tuesday and they asked all county fire departments, churches, and schools to wail on their bells and sirens at that time.
ETHANOL CARRIES LITTLE-RECOGNIZED RISK
Readers of my newspaper column know I'm not a big fan of ethanol, about the worst choice possible that the government could have made to satisfy our clean energy needs. That being said, ethanol articles always catch my eye. Here's one that has significant meaning to Gasport residents since we have trainloads of the stuff travelling through our town. Sure, the chance of a derailment are slim, but as you'll read towards the end of the article, two such incidents occurred in the last quarter of 2007:
Ethanol Fuels Fire Concerns
By CHRIS BLANK
The nation's drive to use more alternative fuel carries a danger many communities have been slow to recognize: Ethanol fires are harder to put out than gasoline ones and require a special type of firefighting foam. Many fire departments around the country don't have the foam, don't have enough of it, or are not well-trained in how to apply it, firefighting experts say. It is also more expensive than conventional foam.
The problem is that water doesn't put out ethanol fires, and the foam that has been used since the 1960s to smother ordinary gasoline blazes doesn't work well against the grain-alcohol fuel.
Wrecks involving ordinary cars and trucks are not the major concern. They carry modest amounts of fuel, and it is typically a low-concentration, 10 percent blend of ethanol and gasoline. A large amount of conventional foam can usually extinguish such fires. Instead, the real danger involves the many tanker trucks and railcars that are rolling out of the Corn Belt with huge quantities of 85 or 95 percent ethanol and carrying it to parts of the country unaccustomed to dealing with it.
The risk is more than theoretical. Over the past several years, ethanol accidents on highways, along railroads and in storehouses and refineries have triggered evacuations and fires from Texas to Minnesota, injuring several people and killing at least one person.
Water is not used against gasoline fires, because it can spread the blaze and cause the flames to run down into drains and sewers. Instead, foam is used to form a blanket on top of the burning gasoline and snuff out of the flames. But ethanol - a type of grain alcohol often distilled from corn - eats through that foam and continues to burn. Such fires require a special alcohol-resistant foam that relies on long-chain molecules known as polymers to smother the flames. Industry officials say the special foam costs about 30 percent more than the standard product, at around $90 to $115 for a five-gallon container.
Fighting ethanol fires also requires a change in tactics. Brent Gaspard, marketing director for Williams Fire & Hazard Control Inc., an industrial firefighting company in Texas, said firefighters cannot just charge ahead and attack an ethanol fire with foam. "If you just plunge the foam into the fuel, it's going to be less effective. You have to let the foam gently run across the surface so you create a shield," he said.
Industry officials said fire departments in just the past few months are becoming more knowledgeable about ethanol blazes and the special firefighting foam. At the ethanol industry's annual conference in Orlando, Fla., a member of a leading ethanol trade group is leading a session this week on safety for ethanol employees, emergency workers and communities. Fire officials in Iowa and Missouri also want to offer firefighters there ethanol training.
"We're talking about a product that could become more widely used with therefore more exposure to this chemical," said Randy Novak, head of the training bureau for the Iowa fire marshal. "We need to make sure folks understand what it is and how to deal with it."
To help firefighters identify when high concentrations of ethanol are burning, the U.S. Transportation Department has approved a rule requiring signs on tanker trucks hauling fuel that is more than 10 percent ethanol.
In the last three months of 2007, three major fires pointed up the danger. In western Pennsylvania, nine ethanol tanker cars derailed and triggered a blaze that tied up a busy rail line.
In Missouri, a tanker truck carrying several thousand gallons of ethanol and gasoline crashed near the state Capitol, killing the driver. The flames spurred the evacuation of two elementary schools and forced the state to rebuild a badly damaged bridge.
And in Ohio, a train heading through the northeastern part of the state to Buffalo, N.Y., derailed and burned, forcing more than 1,000 people from their homes.
Firefighters in Missouri and Pennsylvania each had some of the special foam on hand. But John Ofman, chief of a volunteer fire company in West Wheatfield Township, Pa., said his department did not have enough and had to depend on outside help.
Ethanol Fuels Fire Concerns
By CHRIS BLANK
The nation's drive to use more alternative fuel carries a danger many communities have been slow to recognize: Ethanol fires are harder to put out than gasoline ones and require a special type of firefighting foam. Many fire departments around the country don't have the foam, don't have enough of it, or are not well-trained in how to apply it, firefighting experts say. It is also more expensive than conventional foam.
The problem is that water doesn't put out ethanol fires, and the foam that has been used since the 1960s to smother ordinary gasoline blazes doesn't work well against the grain-alcohol fuel.
Wrecks involving ordinary cars and trucks are not the major concern. They carry modest amounts of fuel, and it is typically a low-concentration, 10 percent blend of ethanol and gasoline. A large amount of conventional foam can usually extinguish such fires. Instead, the real danger involves the many tanker trucks and railcars that are rolling out of the Corn Belt with huge quantities of 85 or 95 percent ethanol and carrying it to parts of the country unaccustomed to dealing with it.
The risk is more than theoretical. Over the past several years, ethanol accidents on highways, along railroads and in storehouses and refineries have triggered evacuations and fires from Texas to Minnesota, injuring several people and killing at least one person.
Water is not used against gasoline fires, because it can spread the blaze and cause the flames to run down into drains and sewers. Instead, foam is used to form a blanket on top of the burning gasoline and snuff out of the flames. But ethanol - a type of grain alcohol often distilled from corn - eats through that foam and continues to burn. Such fires require a special alcohol-resistant foam that relies on long-chain molecules known as polymers to smother the flames. Industry officials say the special foam costs about 30 percent more than the standard product, at around $90 to $115 for a five-gallon container.
Fighting ethanol fires also requires a change in tactics. Brent Gaspard, marketing director for Williams Fire & Hazard Control Inc., an industrial firefighting company in Texas, said firefighters cannot just charge ahead and attack an ethanol fire with foam. "If you just plunge the foam into the fuel, it's going to be less effective. You have to let the foam gently run across the surface so you create a shield," he said.
Industry officials said fire departments in just the past few months are becoming more knowledgeable about ethanol blazes and the special firefighting foam. At the ethanol industry's annual conference in Orlando, Fla., a member of a leading ethanol trade group is leading a session this week on safety for ethanol employees, emergency workers and communities. Fire officials in Iowa and Missouri also want to offer firefighters there ethanol training.
"We're talking about a product that could become more widely used with therefore more exposure to this chemical," said Randy Novak, head of the training bureau for the Iowa fire marshal. "We need to make sure folks understand what it is and how to deal with it."
To help firefighters identify when high concentrations of ethanol are burning, the U.S. Transportation Department has approved a rule requiring signs on tanker trucks hauling fuel that is more than 10 percent ethanol.
In the last three months of 2007, three major fires pointed up the danger. In western Pennsylvania, nine ethanol tanker cars derailed and triggered a blaze that tied up a busy rail line.
In Missouri, a tanker truck carrying several thousand gallons of ethanol and gasoline crashed near the state Capitol, killing the driver. The flames spurred the evacuation of two elementary schools and forced the state to rebuild a badly damaged bridge.
And in Ohio, a train heading through the northeastern part of the state to Buffalo, N.Y., derailed and burned, forcing more than 1,000 people from their homes.
Firefighters in Missouri and Pennsylvania each had some of the special foam on hand. But John Ofman, chief of a volunteer fire company in West Wheatfield Township, Pa., said his department did not have enough and had to depend on outside help.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
BECKER FARMS HAS NEW WINE AVAILABLE
News from the Niagara Wine Trail....
Vizcarra Vineyards has finished bottling their Blueberry Wine, called "Becker Blue" after selling out of the much-loved vintage in the fall of 2007. The blueberry wine is made from 100% blueberries and is available at the winery and local liquor stores. Please contact the winery for a list of locations.
Vizcarra Vineyards has finished bottling their Blueberry Wine, called "Becker Blue" after selling out of the much-loved vintage in the fall of 2007. The blueberry wine is made from 100% blueberries and is available at the winery and local liquor stores. Please contact the winery for a list of locations.
GASPORT YOUTH IS A GREAT HUNTER
From the Niagara Gazette
Source: http://www.niagara-gazette.com/sports/gnnsports_story_063205144.html
Source: http://www.niagara-gazette.com/sports/gnnsports_story_063205144.html
OUTDOORS: Bulmers and Schultzes have it their way in Lewiston
Nuisance is a blessing for two local families By John D’Onofrio
A pair of local teenagers are hoping their next local goose hunting trip is as fruitful as their very first last weekend. Travis Bulmer, 14, of Gasport; and Travis Schultz, 14, of Newfane; teamed up with their enthusiastic fathers to shoot 16 geese on Saturday as the state’s Nuisance Control Season got underway in Region 9A.
“This was the first time both boys went goose hunting. We’ve hunted turkey together and bow hunted and fished,” said Travis Bulmer’s father, Brett Bulmer. “Both of the boys got deer this year as well.”
Brett said the Nuisance Control Season helps to control the local geese population. Too many remain in the area in the winter season and can cause damage to the environment. “We caught 16 geese and gave two to the landowner. He told us, ‘You don’t even have to clean them. I’ll take them.’ ”Brett said. “I don’t do NASCAR or football. I’m into (baseball) because that’s what the (kids) want to do and Boys Scouts. We’ve got into kayaking. They don’t get along in a canoe, so we got the two oldest ones kayaks.” Besides Travis, the Bulmers have three more children, all Royalton-Hartland School District students, Jessica, 13; Tanner, 8; and Shana 5.
Nuisance is a blessing for two local families By John D’Onofrio
A pair of local teenagers are hoping their next local goose hunting trip is as fruitful as their very first last weekend. Travis Bulmer, 14, of Gasport; and Travis Schultz, 14, of Newfane; teamed up with their enthusiastic fathers to shoot 16 geese on Saturday as the state’s Nuisance Control Season got underway in Region 9A.
“This was the first time both boys went goose hunting. We’ve hunted turkey together and bow hunted and fished,” said Travis Bulmer’s father, Brett Bulmer. “Both of the boys got deer this year as well.”
Brett said the Nuisance Control Season helps to control the local geese population. Too many remain in the area in the winter season and can cause damage to the environment. “We caught 16 geese and gave two to the landowner. He told us, ‘You don’t even have to clean them. I’ll take them.’ ”Brett said. “I don’t do NASCAR or football. I’m into (baseball) because that’s what the (kids) want to do and Boys Scouts. We’ve got into kayaking. They don’t get along in a canoe, so we got the two oldest ones kayaks.” Besides Travis, the Bulmers have three more children, all Royalton-Hartland School District students, Jessica, 13; Tanner, 8; and Shana 5.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
GASPORT UNDER YET ANOTHER WINTER STORM WARNING
WINTER STORM WARNING OVERNIGHT: Periods of freezing rain and sleet, mainly before 4am. Low around 24. Blustery, with a northeast wind between 16 and 22 mph, with gusts as high as 36 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. Total nighttime sleet accumulation of less than a half inch possible.
SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE FOR FARM KIDS
From today's Buffalo News...
The Niagara County Fair has announced information about scholarships sponsored by the state Association of Agricultural Fairs and the New York Show-people’s Association. The scholarships are open to high school students and to students enrolled in college. Students must be active in the Niagara County Fair and also pursuing a degree in agriculture or an agricultural-related field. All applicants from Niagara County must submit their applications through the county fair. Applications are available online at www.nyfair.org . Additional information is available through Cornell Cooperative Extension of Niagara County and local high school guidance offices. For more information, call 433-8839.
The Niagara County Fair has announced information about scholarships sponsored by the state Association of Agricultural Fairs and the New York Show-people’s Association. The scholarships are open to high school students and to students enrolled in college. Students must be active in the Niagara County Fair and also pursuing a degree in agriculture or an agricultural-related field. All applicants from Niagara County must submit their applications through the county fair. Applications are available online at www.nyfair.org . Additional information is available through Cornell Cooperative Extension of Niagara County and local high school guidance offices. For more information, call 433-8839.
ASSESSING THE ASSESSMENTS
Over the past few days Royalton residents have received their new assessments from the town. A lot of folks aren't happy.
I'm one of them.
I've got an old farmhouse on 5 acres of land. Back in 2003 the assessed value was $137,000. Then it jumped to $145,000. This year's value: $175,000!! Somehow, my house has increased in value by 28% in 5 years!!
I'm stunned. The housing disaster that's leading to economic decline across the US has proved that homes have been overpriced not underpriced. As a matter of fact, Standard & Poors reports that housing prices DROPPED by 8.9% in 2007. So, why are we going in the other direction? It's a known that the WNY economy always performs worse than the national economy.
How much did your assessment change? Hit the comment button below to start a discussion.
Luckily, we can contest the new values. Click this link to open a PDF of a letter from the assessor's office: http://www.geocities.com/bob_c14067/assess.pdf
I'm one of them.
I've got an old farmhouse on 5 acres of land. Back in 2003 the assessed value was $137,000. Then it jumped to $145,000. This year's value: $175,000!! Somehow, my house has increased in value by 28% in 5 years!!
I'm stunned. The housing disaster that's leading to economic decline across the US has proved that homes have been overpriced not underpriced. As a matter of fact, Standard & Poors reports that housing prices DROPPED by 8.9% in 2007. So, why are we going in the other direction? It's a known that the WNY economy always performs worse than the national economy.
How much did your assessment change? Hit the comment button below to start a discussion.
Luckily, we can contest the new values. Click this link to open a PDF of a letter from the assessor's office: http://www.geocities.com/bob_c14067/assess.pdf
Monday, March 3, 2008
FIRE AT VERRATTI FARMS
Gasport and Terry's Corners fire departments were called out to a fire this evening at Verratti Farms on Slayton Settlement Rd. A controlled burn of brush got, well, out of control and spread to nearby tires, requiring the use of foaming agents to stop such a hazardous fire.
LISTEN TO JEFF BONO ON WLVL
It was mentioned here last month that 2008 will be an interesting election year not only for the presidential election but for state elections as well. I mentioned that Jeff Bono (a democrat-turned-republican) was taking on, in the primaries, Assemblyman Mike Cole who represents Royalton. Jabs were bound to be many with Cole's intern issue in Albany last year.
But, fireworks look to go in the other direction as well. Bono was a guest on WLVL's Dialog last week, the talk show hosted by my good friend Scott Leffler. Bono provided some horrible answers and spoke offensively with his liberal use of the word "retarded" which fired-up many people, including Scott who tried to correct him on it to no avail.
You can listen to a podcast of the show by righ-clicking this link and downloading it to your desktop: http://media.libsyn.com/media/wlvl/Dialog_022608_-_Jeff_Bono.mp3
You can also read Scott's thoughts about the incident on his blog at www.Scottleffler.com Scroll down the page until you get to the 26 Feb 2008 entry entitled "He said what??"
This will be an interesting race indeed.
But, fireworks look to go in the other direction as well. Bono was a guest on WLVL's Dialog last week, the talk show hosted by my good friend Scott Leffler. Bono provided some horrible answers and spoke offensively with his liberal use of the word "retarded" which fired-up many people, including Scott who tried to correct him on it to no avail.
You can listen to a podcast of the show by righ-clicking this link and downloading it to your desktop: http://media.libsyn.com/media/wlvl/Dialog_022608_-_Jeff_Bono.mp3
You can also read Scott's thoughts about the incident on his blog at www.Scottleffler.com Scroll down the page until you get to the 26 Feb 2008 entry entitled "He said what??"
This will be an interesting race indeed.
Sunday, March 2, 2008
EUROPEAN MEAT PRODUCTS IS A TV STAR
Last week WGRZ TV 2 did a news spot about European Meat Products on Route 104. They posted it on their website. You can watch it here:
http://www.wgrz.com/video/vplayer.aspx?aid=41181&bw=
http://www.wgrz.com/video/vplayer.aspx?aid=41181&bw=
BRACE FOR CHANGES TO TV BROADCAST FORMATS
We here in Gasport are blessed with having regular TV reception from two media markets...Buffalo and Toronto. A good TV antenna will bring in 17 stations. Because of that, many Gasporters have never subscribed to satellite or cable TV. If you're one of them, prepare yourself....
In 2009 and 2011, US and Canadian (respectively) TV stations will broadcast only in digital format. Many homeowners, like myself, still have analog TV's and, unfortunately, cannot receive digital signals without a converter box which can cost $40 to $70.
The government created this mess and will offer help to fix it (with our money of course, so it's a wash). They are now issuing coupons ($1.5 billion worth!) to help us foot the bill. Every household can apply for two coupons, each $40 in value. You can use the coupon to make your purchase at Wal-Mart, Target, Radio Shack and other stores.
To apply, fill out a form at http://www.dtv2009.gov/ or call 1.888.DTV-2009.
In 2009 and 2011, US and Canadian (respectively) TV stations will broadcast only in digital format. Many homeowners, like myself, still have analog TV's and, unfortunately, cannot receive digital signals without a converter box which can cost $40 to $70.
The government created this mess and will offer help to fix it (with our money of course, so it's a wash). They are now issuing coupons ($1.5 billion worth!) to help us foot the bill. Every household can apply for two coupons, each $40 in value. You can use the coupon to make your purchase at Wal-Mart, Target, Radio Shack and other stores.
To apply, fill out a form at http://www.dtv2009.gov/ or call 1.888.DTV-2009.
CAR STRIKES POLICE CRUISER
Overnight, Gasport Road was drifted over with snow. The Niagara County Sheriff's Department responded to two cars in the ditch there. While the officer was in his car on the side of the road, filling out his paperwork with lights a-blazing, his vehicle was struck from behind! A young girl rammed her car into his, demolishing her car and greatly damaging the cruiser's backend.
This is the second time in as many days that a young, inexperienced driver has caused an accident resulting in damage that WE must foot the bill for. The power outage accident on Friday was caused - just as this one - by young kids driving way too fast for the snowy road conditions.
Parents...have a talk with your kids about how to drive in the snow. So far, no one has died in Gasport because of it this year. But, look at the damage. And, look at what happened to the Wilson High School Senior two weeks ago who was driving too fast on Lake Road, crossed the center line and died. No one deserves a tragedy like that, a tragedy that can be averted with some sound advice.
This is the second time in as many days that a young, inexperienced driver has caused an accident resulting in damage that WE must foot the bill for. The power outage accident on Friday was caused - just as this one - by young kids driving way too fast for the snowy road conditions.
Parents...have a talk with your kids about how to drive in the snow. So far, no one has died in Gasport because of it this year. But, look at the damage. And, look at what happened to the Wilson High School Senior two weeks ago who was driving too fast on Lake Road, crossed the center line and died. No one deserves a tragedy like that, a tragedy that can be averted with some sound advice.
TRI-TOWN & ITS PATIENTS HURT BY STATE LAW
From the Lockport Union Sun and Journal
Source: http://www.lockportjournal.com/local/local_story_062012539.html
TRI-TOWN: End of the emergency ride
By Bill Wolcott
For 39 years, Tri-Town Ambulance of Gasport offered a plan to help residents who needed an emergency ride. For an annual $40 donation, Tri-Town would pick up the deductibles that insurance did not pay. In 2001, the State Insurance Department concluded Tri-Town’s plan was a health insurance program and must comply with all the regulations.
“There’s a lot of them,” said Eric Dodge, a Middleport volunteer fireman who works for MED/EX Billing Inc. “To me, it’s another case of excessive regulations and how difficult it is to do business in New York state.” Several state volunteer ambulance services were affected.
Tri-Town, which has 45 volunteer members, is not-for-profit and is not funded by taxpayer money. It serves the Towns of Royalton, Hartland and Lockport. Legal fees to get Tri-Town in compliance with insurance regulations would be cost-prohibitive.
Tri-Town has decided to phase out its program, and last week mailed a letter to the community which read: “We can no longer offer this program. The State of New York Insurance Department states that we are offering an insurance plan and are not licensed to do so.”
State Sen. James Seward, chairman of the Senate Insurance Committee, thinks that the plan offered by Tri-Town and other state ambulance companies made perfect sense. He wants to know if the insurance department declared the programs invalid or if the programs are in violation of state law. The Republican from Oneonta likened it to a situation where churches were stopped from offering a membership program that helped members with medical expenses.“They call it an insurance plan; we think it’s a stretch,” said Duncan Davie, a Seward spokesman. “It’s a difficult situation.”
Some residents simply considered the $40 fee a donation to Tri-Town, according to Cheryl Confer, who has been president for eight years. Some are “frequent flyers,” residents who have medical conditions and need the emergency service with some regularity. Tri-Town is frequently called out for senior citizens at Absolut of Gasport, formerly The Waters. “I feel bad for people in community who don’t have insurance,” said Confer, who is a Emergency Medical Technician. “They are people who can’t afford this.” Confer said she has been stopped by people in the streets who are appalled with the state ruling. Going through the legal hoops would be too costly, she said.“
I don’t understand the state. How can they construe this as an insurance policy?” said Suzanne Struckmann, who has had to use Tri-Town in emergencies for herself and neighbors. “The situation in New York state is so burdensome, with all the taxes. Where are we going to get the funding to do this? Who’s going to support these volunteer groups.”
Families have participated for years and volunteers are life members. Unlike the volunteer fire departments, ambulance companies get no public funding. There are no paid employees. The Tri-Town subscription drive raises about $30,000 annually. The cost of a ride is $600 to $850.
“I’m very disgusted about this and wonder where Sen. Maziarz is,” said Lucille Britt, 70, who served as a commissioner of elections in Niagara County for 11 years. “He’s always looking for issues to help the elderly. I wonder where he is on this issue. I want this organization to stay.
“I would clearly go for bat for them,” said Maziarz who had not been made aware of the problem. The senator from the 62nd district said he would work for a change in the state insurance department. If it needs a change the law to make the program acceptable and in compliance, he would introduce legislation.
Several volunteer ambulance service companies in the Syracuse area have been affected by the state regulations, as well. Tri-Community in Sanborn, concerned with liability, has dropped its program and notified the fire companies. Tri-Community, which serves Wheatfield and the fire districts of Pekin and Sanborn, is the busiest ambulance service in the county, with 1,212 calls last year.
“It has not adversely affected us because of volume,” said Tri-Community president Robin Zastrow. Tri-Community conducts a donation drive. Its billing is the same across the board for everyone, Zastrow said. The volunteer company did want to avoid liability and did not want to fight the law.
The State Ambulance Association is lobbying to have the regulation changed.“I have great concern with the state laws,” said Struckmann, a registered nurse who looks after elderly neighbors. “Who’s going to support these volunteer groups?”
TRI-TOWN: End of the emergency ride
By Bill Wolcott
For 39 years, Tri-Town Ambulance of Gasport offered a plan to help residents who needed an emergency ride. For an annual $40 donation, Tri-Town would pick up the deductibles that insurance did not pay. In 2001, the State Insurance Department concluded Tri-Town’s plan was a health insurance program and must comply with all the regulations.
“There’s a lot of them,” said Eric Dodge, a Middleport volunteer fireman who works for MED/EX Billing Inc. “To me, it’s another case of excessive regulations and how difficult it is to do business in New York state.” Several state volunteer ambulance services were affected.
Tri-Town, which has 45 volunteer members, is not-for-profit and is not funded by taxpayer money. It serves the Towns of Royalton, Hartland and Lockport. Legal fees to get Tri-Town in compliance with insurance regulations would be cost-prohibitive.
Tri-Town has decided to phase out its program, and last week mailed a letter to the community which read: “We can no longer offer this program. The State of New York Insurance Department states that we are offering an insurance plan and are not licensed to do so.”
State Sen. James Seward, chairman of the Senate Insurance Committee, thinks that the plan offered by Tri-Town and other state ambulance companies made perfect sense. He wants to know if the insurance department declared the programs invalid or if the programs are in violation of state law. The Republican from Oneonta likened it to a situation where churches were stopped from offering a membership program that helped members with medical expenses.“They call it an insurance plan; we think it’s a stretch,” said Duncan Davie, a Seward spokesman. “It’s a difficult situation.”
Some residents simply considered the $40 fee a donation to Tri-Town, according to Cheryl Confer, who has been president for eight years. Some are “frequent flyers,” residents who have medical conditions and need the emergency service with some regularity. Tri-Town is frequently called out for senior citizens at Absolut of Gasport, formerly The Waters. “I feel bad for people in community who don’t have insurance,” said Confer, who is a Emergency Medical Technician. “They are people who can’t afford this.” Confer said she has been stopped by people in the streets who are appalled with the state ruling. Going through the legal hoops would be too costly, she said.“
I don’t understand the state. How can they construe this as an insurance policy?” said Suzanne Struckmann, who has had to use Tri-Town in emergencies for herself and neighbors. “The situation in New York state is so burdensome, with all the taxes. Where are we going to get the funding to do this? Who’s going to support these volunteer groups.”
Families have participated for years and volunteers are life members. Unlike the volunteer fire departments, ambulance companies get no public funding. There are no paid employees. The Tri-Town subscription drive raises about $30,000 annually. The cost of a ride is $600 to $850.
“I’m very disgusted about this and wonder where Sen. Maziarz is,” said Lucille Britt, 70, who served as a commissioner of elections in Niagara County for 11 years. “He’s always looking for issues to help the elderly. I wonder where he is on this issue. I want this organization to stay.
“I would clearly go for bat for them,” said Maziarz who had not been made aware of the problem. The senator from the 62nd district said he would work for a change in the state insurance department. If it needs a change the law to make the program acceptable and in compliance, he would introduce legislation.
Several volunteer ambulance service companies in the Syracuse area have been affected by the state regulations, as well. Tri-Community in Sanborn, concerned with liability, has dropped its program and notified the fire companies. Tri-Community, which serves Wheatfield and the fire districts of Pekin and Sanborn, is the busiest ambulance service in the county, with 1,212 calls last year.
“It has not adversely affected us because of volume,” said Tri-Community president Robin Zastrow. Tri-Community conducts a donation drive. Its billing is the same across the board for everyone, Zastrow said. The volunteer company did want to avoid liability and did not want to fight the law.
The State Ambulance Association is lobbying to have the regulation changed.“I have great concern with the state laws,” said Struckmann, a registered nurse who looks after elderly neighbors. “Who’s going to support these volunteer groups?”
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