Santa visits the Roy-Hart Learning Center

Kudos to the Pendleton Lions Club who made the holidays such a special time for the Orleans-Niagara BOCES students at the Roy-Hart Learning Center in Gasport. The young lady's smile says it all.

New Year's Eve in Gasport

Looking for a New Year's Eve related shindig close to home? Here's what's happening in Gasport leading up the ball drop...as you will notice, Gasportians like to party.

Canalside Inn: It's a weekend long party at the home of the best beef on weck in WNY. They have music on Friday with Carl (of the Gitdrum Bros) and Saturday with Dave Viterna & Church. Sunday night will be standard fare. The Facebook event page is here: https://www.facebook.com/events/1580952198619862/

Chop's Shop Bar & Grill: On Sunday night, Gasport's newest dining destination will have a complimentary wing buffet from 9pm-11pm. They will also have music by DJ NRG (Seth Luckman) from 10pm to 2am.

Becker Farms: They won't be having a New Year's Eve party, but they will be having a New Year's Eve Eve party on December 30th from 4:00 till 8:00. Enjoy live music by Carl Motyka. Bring 4 people and get a free pizza with the purchase of a pitcher of beer. The Facebook event page is here:

https://www.facebook.com/events/131846267491807/

Carolyn Joldos Named EHS Manager at FMC Middleport Plant

Carolyn Joldos, a resident of North Tonawanda, NY, has been named Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) manager at FMC’s Agricultural Solutions plant in Middleport.

Ms. Joldos has more than 10 years experience in leading quality initiatives at manufacturing plants, and for the past four years has served as quality supervisor at the FMC Middleport Plant.

She is the recipient of a Bachelor of Science degree in forensic chemistry from the State University College of New York at Buffalo.

Christmas Eve at Becker Farms

If you'd like to attend an always memorable and cozy Christmas Eve service, head over the old barn at Becker Farms on Sunday for a 4:00 service led by Pastor Rod Klinzing of Zion Lutheran Church. It's just over a half hour featuring the scripture of Jesus's birth mixed with holiday songs. It's always an interesting place to reflect on the reason for the season. This picture shows one of the warmer winters -- which this is not: Be sure to dress for the weather.

If being outdoors in a barn isn't your cup of tea, Pastor Rod will be leading indoor services at Zion at 7:00 PM and 11:00 PM Sunday.

Excellent article on Justice Bass

The Lockport Union Sun & Journal offers this excellent look at the career of Justice Bass, who was on the bench for 28 years in Royalton:

http://www.lockportjournal.com/long-serving-royalton-justice-hears-his-last-case/article_60c745c0-e53a-11e7-8e6a-cfe4e5dfe3cd.html

Many want to lead Roy-Hart

Roy-Hart's superintendent search has proven to be incredibly popular. 21 people have applied for the position. That's pretty amazing for a small school district:

http://www.lockportjournal.com/news/local_news/roy-hart-fields-applicants-for-superintendent-s-post/article_29c8d19e-a172-5ee9-863e-bcb9185965f6.html

Canalside Inn Christmas

The Canalside Inn will be having a Christmas Party on Friday, December 22nd from 6:00 till close. They will have presents every half hour until midnight for lucky patrons and specials all night long. Here's their Facebook event page:

https://www.facebook.com/events/1757996587585894/

Nels Ross at HBC

On Wednesday, December 20th, the Hartland Bible Church at 8110 West Ave. will be holding a fun family-friendly event from 5:15 until 7:30. It starts with a pizza party in the gathering hall and then the action moves upstairs where everyone will be entertained by Nels Ross, the beloved comedian, performer and juggler who is sure to leave you laughing and also inspired. Following the show everyone is invited back down to the hall for cookies and treats. HBC is also encouraging all who attend to where their craziest Christmas outfit or ugliest sweater.

Here's the Facebook event page: 

https://www.facebook.com/events/1873730319594077/

NCSO update on yesterday's accident

From the Niagara County Sheriff's Office...

Update to MVA on Hartland Road Hartland, NY

The driver of the southbound vehicle involved in the injury accident on 12/12/17 at 16:13 hours, has been identified as Jennifer Ross, 48 years old, from the Town of Royalton. She is listed in critical condition at Strong Memorial Hospital.

The driver of the northbound vehicle has been identified as Andrea Mason, 56 years old, and her passenger, 14 year old grandson, from Lancaster, NY. Mason and her grandson were treated and released from Erie County Medical Center.

The investigation is continuing by the Niagara County Sheriff's Accident Investigation Unit.

Zion Lutheran Christmas program

Zion Lutheran Church's Christmas pageants put on by the Sunday School are always such an entertaining and engaging way to celebrate the birth of Jesus. This year's program will take place this Sunday, December 17th at 10:30.

NCSO press release on Hartland accident

MVA Hartland Rd Hartland, NY - On December 12, 2017 at approximately 16:13 hours the Niagara County Sheriff's Office received a 9-1-1 call reporting a head on motor vehicle accident with multiple injured parties.

The initial investigation shows a northbound box truck crossed the center line causing a head on collision with a southbound vehicle. The southbound vehicle continued off the roadway into the ditch on the west side of the road.

The driver and passenger of the box truck were transported to ECMC by Tri-Town Ambulance. Fire personnel on scene had to use the Jaws of Life to extract the driver and sole occupant of the southbound vehicle. She was transported by Mercy Flight to Strong Memorial Hospital.

The names of the occupants are being withheld at this time pending notification of the family. The investigation is continuing by the Niagara County Sheriff's Office Accident Investigation Unit.

3 hurt in head-on crash

3 people were hospitalized after a head-on crash on Hartland Road last night (note: the news story shows a photo of the wrecked car if that is something you don't want to see)

http://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/buffalo/news/2017/12/13/niagara-county-crash

Citizens of the Year: The Royalton Bicentennial Committee

2017 was a special year for our community. The town of Royalton celebrated its 200th birthday. The celebration was huge and it lasted all year.

That party would not have been possible were it not for all the hard work put in by the Royalton Bicentennial Committee. For that, they deserve to be designated as Gasport's "Citizens of the Year."

"THANK YOU" to the committee for helping the community celebrate in style! 

Rebecca Schweigert, Jen Gillings, Julie Maedl, Jennifer and Jesse Bieber, Christa Lutz and Linda Drum

We can't say enough about how awesome these folks were in putting together such an amazing series of events!

Here's their look back at the Bicentennial activities that happened this year -- their report features their "thank you" to the various people and organizations that gave them a hand...


April 8th, 2017: Kick off Dinner at the Niagara Orleans Country Club. Attended by 102 people. Proclamations came from Newfane, Cambria, Wheatfield, Lockport, Hartland, Middleport, NC Leg, US Congress, NYS Governor, NYS Assembly and the NYS Senate. Thanks to Donna Aiken, our logo contest winner who helped make all our merchandise and logos look so amazing!

July 4th, 2017: Veterans and First Responders Breakfast. This was held at Gasport Chemical Hose and we served exactly 200 people for our 200th Birthday of the Town! All Veterans and First Responders ate for free and everyone else was asked to contribute through a free will offering. Thankful for Trinity Lutheran Church of Wolcottsville and the Boy Scouts of Gasport who stepped up and made the day a true success.

July 22, 2017: Royalton Summer Sizzler 200 was held at the Terry’s Corners Fire Company grounds. We had over 3500 people attend with 7 bands, featuring long time Sizzler bands Dirty Blond, Jonsie, Dave Viterna and Last Call. We were also very lucky to have artist Carl Dixon of the Guess Who, Strictly Hip and Nerds Gone Wild! We had a dozen food trucks for lunch and supper, something to satisfy everyone’s taste. Thanks to Tim Durfy and Nick Baes who became an honorary members of our committee and without them this event wouldn’t have happened.

August 27th, 2017: Royalton Community day was held at the Royalton Ravine with a Non-Denominational church service and a craft show. All our Local Fire Companies and the NC Sheriff’s Command Center participated for tours and information on joining. The Lions grilled out hot dogs and sold Chicken BBQ’s. Thanks to Jim Luckman for his help in making it all happen. There was also a basket raffle. Thanks to Pastor Rod for coordinating all the churches and the service.

September 9th, 2017: Royalton Community Picnic was held right down the middle of Main St. in the Village of Middleport. We had a few hundred people come out and have lunch, also with a good will offering accepted. Nickle City reptiles did two shows and had animals set up for a good 3 hours for all of Royalton to see and touch. We also had rides, all free of charge, from 3PM to 8PM. Even the adults took time to go down the slide and take a ride on the swings. In the evening we had food and beverages at the Middleport fire hall with a DJ.

October 21, 2017: Our Closing Ceremony was held at the Terry’s Corners Fire Hall. We had about 100 VERY SURPRISED guests who attended our dinner that ended up being absolutely free, all money for tickets was refunded at the door. We had music along with food by Donna Eick and an enormous give away of local restaurants and businesses gift certificates and merchandise. No one went home empty handed. We had beautiful glass mugs engraved with our Bicentennial Logo made by Quality Engraving for everyone to take home as a keep sake along with small Swiss Army knives.

NONE of these events would have been possible without the generous donations from SO MANY sponsors including Grigg Lewis, Niagara County Legislature, Royalton Historical Society, Drum Oil, Town of Royalton, Village of Middleport, Sunrise Doors, KJ Motorsports, All Metal works, Chops, Sunrise, Basket Factory, Petunias, Brigham Concrete, Standish Jones, Bad Ash BBQ, Darrell’s Place, Middleport Family Health, Village Pizza, Schwabs Markets, Maedl Woodcraft, Gasport Welding, Gasport Lions, Seaway Insurance, Middleport Tractor, Confer Plastics, A Superior Concrete Inc., Brigham Construction, Wolf Maple Products, Howell Motors, Boy Scout Troop 18 and 23, Rapids, Wolcottsville, Gasport, Terry’s Corners and Middleport Fire Companies.

Save the date: Cabin Fever Reliever

Save the date for Terry's Corners' Cabin Fever Reliever featuring Nerds Gone Wild. It will take place at the fire hall's banquet facility on Friday, February 23rd from 8:00 PM to 11:45 PM. The Facebook event page is here: https://www.facebook.com/events/1912759282385106/

Why the Erie Canal is full again

Many are wondering why the Erie Canal filled back up with water. That is the Canal Authority's way of checking the success of repairs and maintenance on various culverts. It's a sort of lesson learned from the 2016 situtaion when the Hulberton culvert received a needed repair in June (something should have been inspected and addressed earlier in the year). That repair closed the canal for an expanded period and it had a major impact on local communities during the Canal's tourism season.

Breakfast with Santa: December 9

Light up Gasport & Christmas Party

Light up Gasport & Christmas Party

Free Fun for the Whole Family

When: Sunday, December 10, 2017
Place: Gasport Firehall
Time: 4:00pm

Festivities will include: Santa Claus, Music, Caroling, Decorating and Lighting of Community Christmas Tree, Basket Raffle, Hot Chocolate, Christmas Cookies, Apple Cider and Sleigh rides!

All proceeds go to the Gasport Beautification Committee to help support this event and decorating of Main St. Gasport.

For more information about this committee please contact committee member Debbie Babcock at 417.0718.

11th annual Mitten Tree

When you’re out and about shopping for Christmas, please extend your giving beyond your family. Please buy a gift for a needy child in Gasport.

The Mitten Tree is up and you have until December 14th to donate.

This is the eleventh year for this awesome program that is run by the Gasport Lions Club.

Here’s how it works…

The tree is located out front of the Gasport post office at the corner of Main Street and Route 31. (There is also a tree at the Middleport post office).

Take a mitten from it and give a gift that is appropriate to the age/gender of the child noted on the mitten.

Attach the mitten to the unwrapped gift and drop it off at Absolut Care or Drum Oil (they have drop boxes) or at the Elementary School (under the tree in the lobby). The Lions Club will distribute the gifts in time for the holidays.

Please participate and make Christmas a little better for a child – maybe even your neighbor – who is in need. That’s what the holiday is all about.

Looking for photos of any Ruthven Kill paintings

The late Ruthven "Bud" Kill took up painting when he retired from farm & orchard work and he painted many pictures of Gasport scenery, including this of my house, done when he was was in his 80s in the 1980s. I'm curious how many other locals might have farm scenes and Erie Canal scenes that he painted. If you have a Kill original,email me a photo that I can share here. My email is bobconfer@juno.com

RIP Steve Harrington

Earlier this week, Steve Harrington passed away while deer hunting off Royalton Center Road in Gasport.

The news of his passing is saddening. Steve was one of the really good guys. I know that sentiment is thrown around a lot when people pass but it certainly rang true with Steve. His love of life -- and people -- was outstanding and contagious.

I enjoyed his visits to my office a few times a year when he'd be out and about looking for sponsors, and then giving updates to those sponsors, for the Erie Canal Derby. He always brightened up the day with his smile and that hearty laugh of his.

It was that Derby that showed how special Steve was. His goal with the event the past 27 years was to do everything he could to get families outdoors together. Where better than the Erie Canal -- a body of water that was instrumental in our history and one that has an unprecedented amount of accessibility. He saw the value of that public asset in getting kids interested in the outdoors and in spending quality time with their parents, making a lifetime of memories. The Derby has been a success because Steve put his heart into it.

The community has lost a wonderful man.

RIP, Steve.


Here is Steve's obituary:

http://obituaries.lockportjournal.com/obituary/stephen-harrington-1948-2017-1006477951

DEC makes arrest

The DEC arrested a hunter in Royalton who had an illegal rifle, a woman's hunting license, and a crack pipe:

http://buffalonews.com/2017/11/29/man-nabbed-by-dec-in-royalton-with-illegal-rifle-womans-hunting-license-crack-pipe/

NCSO report about Gasport hunter's death

Press release from the Niagara County Sheriff's Office regarding yesterday's situation:

The Niagara County Sheriff's Office Communications Center received a 9-1-1 call reporting that a hunter had fallen from a tree stand in the woods behind 4562 Royalton Center Rd.

Emergency units from Gasport Chemical Hose Volunteer Fire Company, Terry's Corners Volunteer Fire Company, Mercy Flight, Niagara County Sheriff's Office and New York State Police responded to the scene and located the male lying unresponsive at the base of his tree stand. Unsuccessful life saving treatment was given to the 68 year old male at the scene where he was pronounced deceased.

Initial investigation indicates the male appeared to suffer from a medical emergency while up in the tree stand and then fell from the tree stand to the ground. Niagara County Sheriff's Criminal Investigation Bureau is continuing to investigate the incident.

The victim's name will not be released at this time pending notification to his family.

Gasport hunter needs EMS

There is currently a fire/EMS call underway (morning of November 29th) to Royalton Center Road for a hunter who had cardiac arrest and fell from his deer stand. Terry's Corners ATV has been called into use, patient is a ways back in the woods/field.

How to help the Seibs

There are two ways you can give help to the Seibs who lost their home in yesterday's fire..

Hartland Bible Church on West Ave. in Gasport will be accepting donations from 9am until 7:30pm today (Wednesday the 29th). They are asking that only gifts of cash and gift cards be given at this time. Should specific needs arise the Church will inform us at that time. Pastor Jon asks that you fervently commit Doug, Lorna, Eliza, Ella and Lucaiah in your prayers!

A charity page has also been set-up online here:

https://www.youcaring.com/lornaseibfamily-1027200

Fire destroys Royalton Home

Such a sad thing to happen to such good people (Doug and Lorna Seib and their kids). Anytime this happens it's horrible, but especially so during the holidays...

On November 28, 2017 at 1404 hours, the Niagara County Dispatch Center received a 911 call from an occupant of 8448 Bunker Hill Road stating that she saw flames in the residence and that alarms were going off. She was instructed that everyone should leave the house immediately.

NCSO units arrived and found the rear of the residence fully engulfed by flames. The reporting person was the only one home at the time and was able to escape to safety with the family dog.

Wolcottsville Fire Company responded to the scene. They were assisted by several Fire Companies which are listed below. The American Red Cross was called to the scene to assist the three adults and two children displaced by the fire. The two story structure and contents are a total loss.

The investigation will be conducted by Niagara County Cause and Origin.

Pistol recert outreach

There is so much confusion about the pistol permit recertification process that the Niagara County Clerk's Office is holding a public meeting in Gasport this Wednesday.  It will be held at 7:00 PM at the Hartland Town Hall on Ridge Road. 

Buy local this Christmas

When out Christmas shopping, don't forget to "buy local." Help keep money in Gasport, drive our economy and support your neighbors by buying wine at Becker Farms and Vizcarra Vineyards, candy/jelly/honey at Schwab Farm Market, cheeses at Teacup Farm, meats at Hartland Abattoir Corp., Christmas items at Always Christmas, everything under the sun at Standish-Jones Building Supply, gift certificates to our dining establishments and anything else you can think of at any number of local businesses.

Dr. Kloda is named FMC's plant manager

Dr. Roberta Kloda, a resident of Lewiston, NY, has been named manager of FMC’s Agricultural Solutions plant in Middleport.

Dr. Kloda has more than 10 years of environmental, health and safety knowledge and experience and a strong background in heavy industrial manufacturing. She previously served as Environmental, Health and Safety manager for the FMC Middleport Plant where she also managed environmental requirements and waste reduction projects. She has served on the Board of Directors of the National Safety Council and on the Board of the Western New York Safety Council.

Dr. Kloda received a Doctorate in Leadership and Policy from Niagara University, and a Master’s in Public Health and Bachelor’s in Chemistry and Recombinant Gene Technology from Western Kentucky University.

Troop 18 turns 70

The Union Sun & Journal looks at 70 years of Troop 18 in Gasport:

http://www.lockportjournal.com/news/local_news/special-anniversary/article_ac4c6a5f-0044-5a7d-ab41-5e73947f6e4a.html

Save the date: Breakfast With Santa

Children's Jubillee at CUCC

Koening recognized on WYRK

In today's Salute to Seniors, WYRK recognized longtime Roy-Hart educator Herbert Koenig:

http://wyrk.com/salute-to-seniors-herb-koenig/

Covenant United Church

Michelle's Memorial 5K Run

The goal of Michelle's Memorial is to provide a scholarship at Royalton Hartland for graduating Seniors, encourage sports in our community as well as offer the remembrance of Michelle Bewley (Schuler) who, in 2006, passed away at the age of 29 in a car accident.

The goal is to reward a student that took part in music and sports, excelled academically and portrayed a whole lot of heart both on and off the field, just as Michelle did.

The 6th annual Michelle's Memorial 5k will take place on Saturday, November 18th at 9:00 AM at the fire hall in Middleport. Registration begins at 8:00 AM.

For more information, visit Middleport's website: http://middleport-newyork.com/6th-annual-michelles-memorial-5k/

Bazaar and turkey dinner

The Covenant United Church of Christ's annual bazaar and donation dinner is tomorrow, Saturday, November 4th. The day's activities run from 10:00 till 7:00.

Take out will be available for lunch and dinner.

Lunch is served by CUCC's youth group from 11:00 till 2:00.

The famous turkey dinner, cooked by the church folk and served by Troop 18, is donation style, and it will be available from 3:30 till 7:00.

The bazaar begins at 10:00 and it will feature homemade jams, hot pepper jelly, beets, carrots, tomatoes, and fresh baked sweet breads, rolls,muffins, pies, and cookies.

There will also be hand sewn items from purses to scarfs as well as tree skirts, wreaths and centerpieces.

There will be a kids booth with games and prizes.

The Faceboook event page can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/events/653877308333988/

Always Christmas open house

The annual Always Christmas Open House will be held at Standish Jones on Saturday, November 4, 2017 from 11 am - 4 pm.

This year will feature their 4th Annual Holiday Basket Raffle to benefit Women & Children's Hospital of Buffalo. PLUS, visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, participate in a scavenger hunt, free crafts and activities, enjoy free popcorn, cookies and cider, and so much more! This day only comes once a year - don't miss it!

If you haven't been to Always Christmas (the all-year Christmas store on the top floor of Standish-Jones) in a while, you are in for a surprise....there are many new Christmas items, toys, and games.

Here is the Facebook event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/124055281609774/

Help make Breakfast With Santa a success

The Fourth of July Committee is looking for raffle items and food donations to help make the December 3rd Breakfast With Santa a success, which in turn makes the Fourth of July a success...

Peanut Butter and Jelly Drive 2017

When people donate food to food pantries, usually it’s canned goods that kids all too often aren’t much interested in eating. That’s why Pete Robinson of Lockport founded the Peanut Butter and Jelly Drive in 2010: He wanted to provide local needy families with foods that kids enjoy.

This year's PB&J Drive begins November 1st, with donation bins for unopened jars of peanut butter, jelly and marshmallow Fluff being set up all over the Niagara Frontier.

There are 5 drop-off sites in Gasport: Chop Shop; Durfs/MJ Tire; Nickleback Bottle and Can Redemption Center, Royalton town  hall and Schwab’s Farm Market.

Chowder sale: October 28th

If you'd like to support a worthy cause and get some awesome food, Boy Scout Troop 18 will be cooking their famous chowder tonight on Main Street. It will be available on Saturday morning at the Covenant Church from 9:30 till gone. Cost is $18/gallon, $16/gallon if you provide the container, and $6 per quart.

Food pantry: October 28

Royalton Halloween hours

The designated trick-or-treating time for the town of Royalton is 5:00 to 7:00 on Halloween.

Rachel's Challenge

Royalton Hartland Middle School took on Rachel's Challenge for the ninth time the Union Sun & Journal reports:

http://www.lockportjournal.com/news/local_news/life-lessons-roy-hart-middle-school-takes-on-rachel-s/article_1a3d8dd4-dfef-5d88-a4a2-109c82af71f2.html

Troop 18 chowder sale

Mrs. Retzlaff has passed away

Sadly, Roy-Hart has lost yet another beloved longtime teacher. Mrs. Retzlaff was a kind and caring elementary school teacher for 35 years in the district.

Her obituary: http://obituaries.lockportjournal.com/story/linda-spencer-retzlaff-1943-2017-990632421

Mr. Pregmon has passed away

Stephen Pregmon was a Roy-Hart musical teacher and the district's string orchestral director for an amazing 35 years. He passed away last Thursday. Here is the obituary for the always happy and inspiring Mr. Pregmon, who had a huge impact on Gasport, Middleport and beyond:

http://www.taylorandreynolds.com/stephen-pregmon/

CUCC bazaar and dinner: November 4th

The Covenant United Church of Christ's annual bazaar and donation dinner is on November 4th. The day's activities run from 10:00 till 7:00.

Take out will be available for lunch and dinner.

Lunch is served by CUCC's youth group from 11:00 till 2:00.

The famous turkey dinner, cooked by the church folk and served by Troop 18, is donation style, and it will be available from 3:30 till 7:00.

The bazaar begins at 10:00 and it will feature homemade jams, hot pepper jelly, beets, carrots, tomatoes, and fresh baked sweet breads, rolls,muffins, pies, and cookies.

There will also be hand sewn items from purses to scarfs as well as tree skirts, wreaths and centerpieces.

There will be a kids booth with games and prizes.

This is CUCC's biggest and most important fundraiser of the year. Last year, they added a raffle and will be holding one again this year. If you'd like to donate a raffle item and support CUCC and the great mission work they do in the community, please call Carol Genet, who is coordinating the raffle at 622.3095.

Our Farm Festival this weekend

The sixth annual Our Farm Festival will be from noon until 6 p.m. Saturday at 7610 Ridge Rd. in Gasport:

http://www.lockportjournal.com/news/local_news/a-festive-fall-in-gasport/article_82f7c4b2-2e0c-55b7-93cd-a2437f04460d.html

Trinity "Oktoberfest" in Wolcottsville

Wolcottsville is the place to be this weekend. Yesterday, we shared the info about St. Michael's fall fest coming up on Saturday. Then, there's Trinity Lutheran Church's version of Oktoberfest on Sunday from 11:00 till 2:00 where they will be serving bratwurst and sauerkraut -- and roast beef for those not into the German foods.

Chicken & pork BBQ in Johnson Creek

St. Mike's Chowder Day

Wolcottsville is often the forgotten burg of Royalton. Why not pay the hamlet a visit this Saturday?

Gasport Food Pantry update

Gasport's Food Pantry at Zion Lutheran Church continues to have a huge impact on our community.

On Saturday, September 23rd, 18 families totaling 75 people used the services provided by the food pantry. 30 bags of food were distributed and 14 families used the clothing closet.

Thank you to the volunteers and donors who make this happen!

Currently, the pantry is short on Jell-o, canned fruits, tuna fish, jelly, pork & beans, cereal, potatoes, and pasta sauce. If you'd like to donate such items, please visit the Church Sunday mornings between 7:30 AM and noon.

If you would like to utilize the services of the pantry, it is open the fourth Saturday of every month between 10:00 AM and noon.

Wednesday car-bus accident

Middleport and Tri-Town have been dispatched to a car/bus accident on Route 31. There are 45 students on the bus and police on scene have reported that 2 of them are citing neck pain.

Middleport Rod & Gun Club event

Chop's Shop Bar & Grill open for business

Gasport has a new dining and drinking establishment. Chop's Shop Bar and Grill has opened up next to their pizzeria. It looks sharp! I wish them luck in this new endeavor! You can like them on Facebook here:

https://www.facebook.com/Chops-Shop-Bar-Grill-480586502297326/

Standish & Jones cutest pet contest

Superintendent search underway

The Lockport Union Sun & Journal is reporting that a search is underway for a new superintendent of schools for Roy-Hart as Roger Klatt had announced his retirement. It should be noted that it will no longer be a role shared with Barker: http://www.lockportjournal.com/news/local_news/roy-hart-barker-districts-searching-for-separate-supers/article_dec90907-65e9-5854-b968-163151dc19cb.html

Lift bridge will continue to be closed

Here is the NY-Alert notification from the Niagara County Sheriff's Office: Update on Gasport Rd/Hartland Rd lift bridge. The bridge will NOT re-open this week as planned and will be closed to all traffic for a few more weeks. When a tentative date for opening is announced we will update the public.

Roy-Hart teacher introduces children's book

Dan Mault, a third-grade teacher at Royalton-Hartland Elementary School, will be releasing his new children's book this weekend:

http://www.lockportjournal.com/community/roy-hart-teacher-s-st-book-will-be-launched-on/article_96967614-5f59-5b77-8644-c3ce72599573.html

Tri-Town open house

Have you ever wanted to become a driver on an ambulance or an EMT? Come to Tri-Town's open house this Saturday, September 23rd from 11:00 to 4:00 at their Hartland duty station (8935 Ridge Road, near the Hartland fire hall). Check out their equipment and headquarters, meet their members, and learn about incentives. They will also being having a car seat check! Come out and see if you are interested in volunteering for the Royalton-Hartland community.

Clothing for those in need

Community Fellowship

TC gun raffle

Domstock 2017

This afternoon you will see a lot of people running through Gasport then having even more fun afterwards. It's Domstock!

Domstock is an annual charity event run by Dominick Ciliberto. It is now in its 9th year. Each year the proceeds are donated to help other organizations achieve their goals. This year, proceeds will be given to Operation Smile which is a worldwide charity dedicated to the correction of cleft palettes and lips in children and young adults.

The event is held on the grounds of All Metal Works in Gasport, NY and features: a 5K Race, Pig Roast, Games for Kids and Adults, Live Music, Raffles and a Silent Auction, a closing Bonfire and so much more.

This is a fun filled event to benefit life altering surgeries around the world. Everyone who attends can truly say that they have made a difference in someone's life.

Kudos to Dom for his impact on Gasport and the world!

Saddle Up For Roswell

On September 9th, 2017, Chestnut Ridge Equestrian Center will be hosting their 12th annual Saddle Up for Roswell event from 8:00 to 4:00.

This is a wonderful horse show where the riders raise money for Roswell. The day benefits cancer research and patient care in Western New York at Roswell park Cancer Institute. More than 110 riders participate in this event and the community is encouraged to come view this great show which will feature dressage, cross country, and stadium jumping events.

The Chestnut Ridge Equestrian community is passionate about cancer, a cause that has touched so many in one way or another. They are proud to partner with Roswell Park to assist those who face this disease. Over the history of this event they've raised more than $150,000!

In order to continue this special event, they are seeking both in-kind and monetary donations. They also sponsor a basket raffle at the event. Donors would receive exposure on many levels from hundreds of participants, ads in the newspapers, TV spots, links with USEA (United States Eventing Association) and USDF (United States Dressage Foundation).

For more information please contact Megan Gamin, Co-Chair of Saddle Up for Roswell, at (716) 772-7703 or pistolmeg@thegamins.com.

To donate to Roswell Park Cancer Institute on behalf of this event, make checks payable to Roswell Park Cancer Institute and send to: Chestnut Ridge Equestrian Center, Saddle Up for Roswell, 7913 Chestnut Ridge Road, P.O. Box 372, Gasport, NY, 14067

Information for participants and donors can be found on the Equestrian Center's website:

http://chestnutridgeequestriancenter.com/shows-and-events/2015/9/12/saddle-up-for-roswell-10th-anniversary
 
Roswell Park Cancer Institute, founded in 1898, is the nation’s first cancer research, treatment and education center. The Institute was one of the first cancer centers in the country to be named a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center and remains the only facility with this designation in Upstate New York. RPCI is a member of the prestigious National Comprehensive Cancer Network, an alliance of the nation’s leading cancer centers; maintains affiliate sites; and is a partner in national and international collaborative programs. For more information, visit RPCI’s website at www.roswellpark.org, call 1-877-ASK-RPCI (1-877-275-7724) or e-mail askrpci@roswellpark.org.

Hartland Bible Church community day

Before you head over to Middleport for the community day there on Saturday, be sure to check out Hartland Bible Church's 3rd annual community day which also runs on Saturday, September 9th. HBC's event runs from 11:00 to 3:00 at the church at 8100 West Ave in Gasport.

They are inviting everyone for a day of food and fun. They will be having a corn roast, hot dogs, a giant water slide, an inflatable obstacle course, lawn games, bocce, volleyball, a kids area with crafts, and a car show. This entire event is free.

The Facebook event page can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/events/713599418841641/

Royalton 200th event at Middleport

Petunia's Pizzeria sale price has dropped

In a post a few weeks back we mentioned that Petunia's Pizzeria is up for sale. If someone is interested in buying the pizzeria, the selling price has come down: https://buffalo.craigslist.org/bfs/6266967363.html

A shortened Canal season

The Erie Canal is an integral part of Gasport's identity and a contributor to our tourism economy. This article from the Albany Times Union offers some good food for thought: If the 200th anniversary of the Canal is so special, why are officials robbing us of almost 2 months of use??

http://www.timesunion.com/business/article/State-canals-shortened-season-hits-boaters-11959524.php

Roy-Hart Report is available online

The latest edition of the Roy-Hart Report is available online. You can download it here:

http://www.royhart.org/…/17-18%20Back%20to%20School%20Newsletter.pdf

Leading off the 20-page report is the Superintendent's Message. As that message closes, Roger Klatt mentions that he will be retiring at the end of the school year.

That's a bittersweet announcement. On one hand, I am happy for Roger. On the other, I will miss him. In my opinion, he's done an exceptional job for the district. He's been an unifying force and a visionary who's worked well with staff, teachers, parents, and students.

Roy-Hart's growing poverty rate

There's an article about rural schools battling poverty that ran in newspapers across the state. There's a frightening takeaway in that report: Consider this statement about poverty in Gasport and Middleport...."just 15 percent of the students enrolled in the Royalton-Hartland Central School District in Middleport qualified for (free or reduced) lunch programs in the 2006-07 school year, according to state data. By 2014-15, the most recent year for which the statistic was available, the poverty rate there had climbed to 33 percent of the student body."

http://www.coopercrier.com/news/local_news/rural-schools-battle-poverty-enrollment-dip/article_f30eb4d5-5fce-5924-bbde-75ac050e9acd.html

Community Day ad

Royalton Community Day

The next Royalton Bicentennial Event is right around the corner!! The Royalton Community Day will be held at the Royalton Ravine on Sunday, August 27. The day will begin with a non-denominational church service at 10:30. Gasport Lions will be selling 300 chicken barbecues. The local fire companies will be there to help celebrate, as well many local crafters, organizations and businesses. The Niagara County Sheriffs will have the Command Center in place for tours. There will be a basket raffle, music and free giveaways. If you would like to donate a basket please call Jennifer Bieber at 716.735.7335.

FMC ice cream social

Lift bridge closure

The New York State Canal Corporation announced the lift bridge in Gasport will be closed to vehicular traffic on Aug. 21 for about four weeks for repairs and maintenance on the bridge-lifting system.

The pedestrian walkways will remain open during these repairs, except for a brief time after the bridge is first placed in the raised position. The walkways will not be handicapped accessible during the scheduled work period.

During the Gasport project, a signed detour for vehicles will be posted utilizing Route 31 (Rochester Road and Telegraph Road), Orangeport Road and Slayton Settlement Road.

The bridge work will not affect navigation on the Erie Canal or users of the Erie Canalway Trail.

Road closures

Starting Thursday, August 3, 2017 through Thursday, August 10,2017, from 7:00am-5:00pm, the following roads will have traffic delays/possible lane closures due to chipsealing work.

Mountain Rd- from Gasport Rd to Griswold St
Bolton Rd Hill
Peet St
Graham Rd
E. Chestnut Ridge Rd
Ditch Rd
Ertman Rd
Kinne Rd

Please be aware of construction signs and road crews.

CUCC Canal Cruise

Covenant United Church of Christ is doing a canal cruise on August 12, 2017 from 5-7 pm. The picture shown here is an article that was in their church newsletter, but they'd also like to put notice out to the general public for anyone who might be interested in joining the CUCC folks that evening.

Tickets are $24.00 per person and must be pre-purchased. You can contact the church at 716.772.7802 or by email at office@covenantny.org. You can also call Christine Pittler at 716.772-2207 or by email her at primacamp@aol.com. 

Chipsealing date change

Due to weather, the Thursday, July 27,2017 work date has changed to Monday July 31, 2017 from 7:00am to 5:00pm for the following roads to have traffic delays/possible lane closures for chipsealing.

Townline Rd- from Robson Rd to Root Rd

N. Wruck Rd- from the canal to Townline Rd

Quaker Rd- from Slayton Settlement Rd to Hartland town line.

Please be aware of construction signs, and road crews.

Thursday travel delays

On Thursday, July 27,2017 from 7:00am to 5:00pm the following roads in Royalton will have traffic delays/possible lane closures due to chipsealing work:

Townline Rd- from Robson Rd to Root Rd

N. Wruck Rd- from the canal to Townline Rd

Quaker Rd- from Slayton Settlement Rd to Hartland town line.

Please be aware of construction signs, and road crews.

Trolls coming to Vets Park Friday

This Friday, July 28th, the Gasport Beautification committee will be hosting its annual movie night at Vets Park in the hamlet. Gates open at 6:00 and the movie will start at dark. This year's movie is Trolls.

There will be special appearances by a balloon artists and Poppy the Troll.

The snack bar will be open to purchase pizza, hot dogs, burgers, candy, chips, soda, water, and coffee.

Bring your blankets and lawn chairs.

This is a family event, so it is encouraged that all children be accompanied by an adult.

Names released for Gasport fatal accident

UPDATE to fatal Motor Vehicle Accident in Hartland, NY -

The driver of the vehicle involved in the fatal accident on July 23rd, 2017 at 1912 hours has been identified as Margaret A. Hammerl, 82, of Stamford Connecticut. She was pronounced dead at the scene. The rear seat passenger in the vehicle has been identified as Andrew J. Hammerl, 84, of Stamford Connecticut; he was also pronounced dead at the scene.

The front seat passenger in the vehicle has been identified as Mary R. Haberman, 77, of Eggertsville, N.Y. She remains in critical condition at ECMC.

The driver of the other vehicle involved has been identified as Tony E. Wagner, 29, of Gasport, N.Y. He was treated at the scene of the accident.

The Investigation is continuing by the Niagara County Sheriff's Office Accident Investigation Unit.

Gasport fatal accident

Niagara County Sheriff's Office press release...

Hartland, NY - On July 23rd, 2017

The Niagara County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center received multiple 911 calls reporting a motor vehicle accident at the intersection of Ridge road and Quaker road in the Town of Hartland.

Upon arrival by deputies, two heavily damaged vehicles were on scene. One vehicle was in the west bound lane of Ridge road the other vehicle involved was located off road in the south west corner of the intersection. Preliminary investigation shows the south bound vehicle on Quaker road stopped at the stop sign then proceeded to cross Ridge road and was struck by a west bound vehicle on Ridge road.

The driver and rear passenger of the south bound vehicle were pronounced deceased on scene. The front passenger of the south bound vehicle was transported by Tri Town Ambulance to the Erie County Medical Center for serious injuries. The driver of the west bound vehicle signed off with medical personnel on scene.

Investigation to continue by the Niagara County Accident Investigation Unit.

The names of the occupants are being withheld at this time pending notification of the family.

Gasport accident claims 2 lives Sunday

An accident at the intersection of Quaker and Ridge claimed 2 lives Sunday evening. Here is WGRZ's report. As with most news websites, open at your discretion if you don't want to see a photo of the vehicle:

http://www.wgrz.com/news/local/two-killed-in-crash-in-hartland-niagara-county-/459015424

Job openings at Roy-Hart

Roy-Hart has the following job openings:

Part-time vocal music teacher

Part-time school monitor

The school district also has the following coaching vacancies:

Modified cross country

Modified volleyball


If interested in applying for any of the above, visit the employment page here:

http://www.royhart.org/domain/254

Summer Sizzler this weekend

The composition of Gasport's gas

A few weeks back we mentioned that some scientists were in town to analyze the chemical content and microbial life of Gasport's gas. Part One of the study is in. Gasport's gas has this profile: Methane 92.9%; ethane 6.9%, propane 0.2%.

US&J looks at Mrs. Pedini

Roy-Hart is blessed to have teachers like Mrs. Pedini, "one of the most patriotic people that you will ever meet".

Here is a Lockport US&J report on her:

http://www.lockportjournal.com/community/teaching-outside-the-box/article_a1c440a6-8c38-50f6-a6b0-795da129c2c2.html

Roy-Hart to receive Smart Schools funds

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced approval of 154 Smart Schools Investment Plans aimed at reimagining teaching and learning for the 21st century. The approved plans, totaling $103.2 million, are part of the $2 billion Smart Schools Bond Act - a sweeping education technology initiative first proposed by the Governor and overwhelmingly approved by voters. The investments authorized today will modernize classrooms across New York and equip students with the skills they need to thrive in the global economy.

Roy-Hart is one of the recipients. The district will be receiving $299,988 for classroom technology.

See the State's press release here:

https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-cuomo-announces-approval-154-smart-schools-investment-plans-totaling-1032-million

Jennifer Bieber to run Niagara County water district

The US&J offers this report on Royalton town supervisor Jennifer Bieber who will be stepping down from that role at the end of this month to become the director of Niagara County's water district. Thank you, Jennifer, for 10 years of service to the town as a board member and supervisor!

http://www.lockportjournal.com/news/local_news/bieber-hired-to-run-county-water-district/article_63a00d03-e361-5119-a46c-9cf9e90f4f36.html

Lindsey Oilver doing fundraising run

Lindsey Oliver, the daughter of Gary & Darlene (Kaufman) Oliver, is running 50 miles on Oct 7th (on her own) in support of her cousin, Jennifer Robertaccio (daughter of Rick & Patricia (Kaufman) Williams) who is battling TNBC (Triple Negative Breast Cancer).

Breast cancer has had such a profound negative effect in the Kaufman family across generations. TNBC affects 10-20% of those diagnosed with breast cancer.

Jen is fighting the fight as best as she can. Her family says she's a true warrior and they're asking everyone that reads this to please donate what you can to help her cause. $1, $5, $10,... any little bit helps. The GoFund me page can be found here: https://www.gofundme.com/50-miles-to-find-a-cure

Lindsey will be running from Greece, NY to Gasport along the canal path to raise money for the TNBC Foundation.

She will be ending her run at her parents house which is just around the corner from the Slayton-Settlement bridge in Gasport.

If we can line people up to run with her during any part of her run, please let her family know. They are also looking for any and all to donate drinks and energy along the way and cheer her across the finish line at Slayton-Settlement and Telegraph Rd.

Please contact KimberlyP.Grant@aol.com for any further info.