GoFundMe for Osmer

The Niagara County Sheriff's Office has released the name of the young man who was struck and killed by a car this past weekend on Slayton Settlement Road: Osmer Perez-Joaquin, 26 years of age, of Mexico.

A GoFundMe page has been created to help send Osmer back to Mexico for burial:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-send-osmers-body-back-home

Accident victim identified

The Niagara County Sheriff's Office has released the name of the young man who was struck and killed by a car this past weekend on Slayton Settlement Road: Osmer Perez-Joaquin, 26 years of age, of Mexico.

Roy-Hart back-to-school plan

 

From the Superintendent's Desk

August 30, 2021

Dear Roy-Hart Community:

Over the past month, we have been working to develop our opening plan that will allow for in-person learning five days a week. Our priority has been to provide a safe learning environment for all of our students within the guidance provided. On Friday, August 27, the New York State Health Commissioner issued the following directive:

“After careful review and consideration of CDC recommendations for face coverings/masks in school settings, I hereby adopt such recommendations, imposing them as requirements, where applicable, until this determination is modified or rescinded. Accordingly, universal masking of teachers, staff, students, and visitors to P-12 schools over age two and able to medically tolerate a face covering/mask and regardless of vaccination status, is required until this determination is modified or rescinded.”

Effective immediately, the Royalton-Hartland CSD must adhere to the Health and Safety protocols as indicated:

Instructional Model: 5 days per week, full-time instruction for all students

Classrooms: Face coverings - Mandated (per NYSDOH order); 3 ft’ of distancing (to extent practicable)

Indoor congregate areas (e.g., hallways): Face coverings - Mandated (per NYSDOH order)

Transportation: Face coverings - Mandated (per CDC order)

Cafeteria: 3 ft’ of distancing (to extent practicable); Face coverings - Mandated when not eating/drinking (per NYSDOH order)

Outdoors: No face coverings required

Mask breaks of 5-10 minutes every hour (K-4) or period (5-12) will be recommended and strongly encouraged in all classrooms. We apologize for the late notice of these changes, and look forward to welcoming our students back on September 7.

Sincerely,

Dr. Hank Stopinski

Superintendent of Schools

Fatal accident on Slayton Settlement Road

 

Niagara County Sheriff's Office press release:

On August 28th, 2021, the Niagara County Sheriff's Office Communications Center received multiple 911 calls reporting that a pedestrian was struck by a vehicle on Slayton Settlement Road.

The initial investigation on scene revealed that the vehicle was traveling westbound on Slayton Settlement Road when the pedestrian entered into the path of the oncoming vehicle. The pedestrian did succumb to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the vehicle was uninjured and is cooperating with the investigation. The names of the parties involved are being withheld at this time pending notification of family. Investigation by the Niagara County Sheriff's Office Accident Investigation Unit and Criminal Investigation Bureau are continuing.

Roy-Hart update

From the Superintendent's Desk

Dear Community Members,

This past week, on her first day as Governor, Kathy Hochul announced that her "priority number one" is making sure children are safe in school, including:

"Immediately directing the Department of Health to institute universal masking for anyone entering our schools."

"Launching a back-to-school COVID-19 testing program to make testing for students and staff widely available and convenient."

Developing a method "to require vaccinations for all school personnel with an option to test out weekly, at least for now."

As you can imagine, these priorities will have an impact on our procedures during the 2021-2022 school year. The District’s priority has been to open our schools five days per week, for in-person learning in the safest manner possible. Our decision making is based on guidance (in some cases mandates) that have come from the CDC, New York State Department of Health, New York State Department of Education and Niagara County Department of Health. We will continue to adjust our plans based on the best available information and most current guidance from those noted above.

I anticipate having our revised plans for opening our schools available for our staff, families and students no later than Wednesday, September 1. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

I wish to encourage all those who are eligible to consider obtaining a COVID vaccination this summer prior to the start of school. As always, I hope that you will make an effort to reach out directly or follow me on Twitter @DrStopinski

Sincerely,

Dr. Hank Stopinski

Superintendent of Schools

 

West Point honors Judy Spencer

In honor of Judy Spencer, the West Point military police and firefighters dedicated a run to her this morning.

Judy Spencer obituary

 

For nearly a quarter century, as a volunteer firefighter, Judy Spencer tirelessly gave of herself to serve those in need in Gasport and surrounding communities. For many of those years, she was at the top or near the top in the number of calls responded to.

Our community lost Judy in the line of duty on Tuesday. Here is her obituary:

Judy D. Spencer, 65, of Gasport, passed away unexpectedly in the Line of Duty to her community on August 24, 2021. Judy was born July 6, 1956 in Batavia, a daughter of the late Donald and Mildred (Shaffer) Lyons.

Judy was a graduate of Roy Hart Central School class of 1975. After high school Judy joined the workforce and was employed at Harrisons working in the cafeteria with Canteen. Judy had a love for animals, camping, doing crafts, and above all else, her family and friends.

Judy was a proud life member of Hartland Volunteer Fire Company, Inc. Judy served with honor and distinction. She was known to be a reliable face in the time of need of others. Judy was a top responder for several years and was honored as “Firefighter of the Year” for 2016. Additionally, Judy was a member of the Gasport Chemical Hose Company Ladies Auxiliary for many years.

Judy is survived by her loving husband, Steve T. Spencer, children, Lisa (Matt) Spencer, and Donald Spencer both of Gasport, NY. Sisters, Janet (Chris) Lyons of Gasport, NY and donna (John) Vetter of Lockport, NY. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins. Judy was predeceased by her parents and father-in-law Gerald Spencer.

The family will receive friends at the Hartland Volunteer Fire Company, Inc. 8945 Ridge Road, Gasport, NY 14067, on Saturday September 4, from 1:00-3:00, where Judy’s memorial service will be held at 3:00pm. Interment will be in Hartland Cemetery.

The family would appreciate any donations in Judy’s memory be made to the Hartland Volunteer Fire Company, Inc. 8945 Ridge Rd. Gasport, NY 14067.

Judy’s arrangements are in the care of Sherrie Bream Funeral Home, 4521 main St. Gasport, NY 14067.

Visitation

1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Saturday, September 4, 2021

Hartland Volunteer Fire Company

8945 Ridge Road

Gasport, New York

Memorial Service

3:00 pm - 3:45 pm

Saturday, September 4, 2021

Hartland Volunteer Fire Company

8945 Ridge Road

Gasport, New York

Running 4 Heroes to honor Judy Spencer

 

12 year-old Zechariah Cartledge (Running 4 Heroes) of central Florida will run a mile today carrying a flag in memory of Hartland's Judy Spencer who died while on duty Tuesday as a volunteer firefighter

https://www.facebook.com/Running4Heroes/photos/a.387943508639892/1029250724509164

Hartland car show and BBQ canceled

Because of their personal losses this week, Hartland fire company's big Car Show and Chicken BBQ scheduled for Sunday has been cancelled.

lending library coming to Roy-Hart

Veterans from five Lockport-based organizations have volunteered their time to build two lending libraries for Roy-Hart. Awesome!

https://www.lockportjournal.com/news/local_news/veterans-assist-community-ag-education/article_ed9c1126-9661-5d58-9abb-203dbeff23b5.html

Hartland VFD mourns

Because of the two deaths, Hartland Volunteer Fire Department is out of service, temporarily not responding to calls.

Thank you to the brotherhood and sisterhood of volunteerism and the neighboring fire districts for covering the territory for our friends and saviors in such a difficult time. They need time to grieve and heal.

https://www.wgrz.com/article/news/local/twin-tragedies-rock-hartland-volunteer-fire-department/71-7bdeb81a-eb4e-4ee2-9569-4ff7158fc74a

Judy Spencer has passed away

"Bryan Ames, the Hartland fire chief, said Spencer was one of the company's most loyal volunteers and was close to the lead in call response. A life member of the company, she began her service there in 1999."

RIP, Judy. Thank you for showing the community the meaning of service and love through all your years of helping those in need during their darkest hours -- fires, accidents, medical events, natural disasters. A true hero.

https://www.lockportjournal.com/news/local_news/mourning-in-the-fire-service/article_d0f2e527-c1fc-5112-a213-959119493995.html?fbclid=IwAR1763vlPX7f4Xk3S6fLCLZi_FmlT2ULa0empRFCJUw0CngwJlJGEE1EmGs

Linda Drum has passed away

 

Linda Drum was a shining light, a model citizen for Gasport. She did a lot for the community...and always with a smile. Her positive impact was felt through her volunteerism at Gasport Chemical Hose; the Gasport Beautification Committee; and Zion Lutheran Church where she led yoga classes for the community.

Linda passed away in the car accident in Royalton on Tuesday.

Here is her obituary:

Linda C. Drum of Gasport, 58, passed away suddenly as a result of an automobile accident. Linda was born October 28, 1962 in Lockport, NY the daughter of the late Charles and Dorothy (Engert) Baehr. She was a graduate of Roy-Hart Central School, class of 1980 and Bryant and Stratton in 1985. Linda was the former owner of Drumees Corner Store in Middleport and after retirement she became a fitness instructor at the Medina YMCA for Silver Sneakers. Linda was a member of the Gasport Ladies Auxiliary and a founding member of the Gasport Beautification Committee. Linda loved sunsets and sunrises at the lake, Alex Bay and Venice, Florida.

She is survived by her loving husband of 32 years, Michael; son, Clayton (Carey) Drum; daughter, Emily (Andrew Gow) Drum; grandchildren, Cody, Matthew and Alex; brother, Douglas Baehr of Gasport and sister, Jane (Robert) Stanley of Middleport; father and mother in-law; Rick and Carol Drum; brothers-in-law, Eric (Tiffany) Drum and Andy (Cathy) Drum; several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Linda is also survived by many friends.

The family will receive friends at the Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home, 38 State St. Middleport on Sunday August 29, from 1-5pm and on Monday August 30, from 4-8pm. Linda’s funeral service will be held the Zion Lutheran Church, 4447 Central Ave., Gasport on Tuesday August 31, at 11:00am.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Linda’s name may be made to the Zion Lutheran Church Food Pantry, Medina YMCA, 306 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103 or Gasport Beautification Committee, 8770 Rochester Rd. Gasport, NY 14067.

Victims identified

 

Niagara County Sheriff's Office Press Releases:

Somerset, NY - The member from the Hartland Volunteer Fire Company that died as a result of the motor vehicle accident on Quaker Road, has been identified as, Judy D. Spencer, 65 years old, from the Town of Hartland. The cause of the accident is still being investigated by the Niagara County Sheriff's Accident Investigation Unit.

Royalton, NY - The driver that died as a result of the motor vehicle accident on Royalton Center Road, has been identified as Linda Drum, 58 years old, from the Town of Royalton. The driver from the second vehicle involved, has been identified as Joshua Riley, 18 years old, from the Town of Albion. The cause of the accident is still being investigated by the Niagara County Sheriff's Accident Investigation Unit.

Merle Snell has passed away

 

The Snells are iconic in Gasport where they have served generations of motorists in Hartland Corners. The patriarch of the family -- Merle -- passed away on Saturday at 89 years of age. Our thoughts go out to the Snell family. Rest in peace, Mr. Snell.

Here is his obituary..

Merle E. Snell, age 89, died unexpectedly August 21, 2021 at his home.

He was born February 26, 1932 to Burton and Lottie (Patterson) Snell and a was a life-long resident of this area. Merle was a member of the Quaker Road Methodist Church, a Charter Member of the Hartland Volunteer Fire Company, an active member of the Town of Hartland Planning Board since 1974, and enjoyed gardening and cooking turkey dinners year-round. He was also co-owner/operator of Snell’s Service Station. Mr. Snell was predeceased by his wife Lois and a son and daughter-in-law: Michael and Suzanne Snell.

He is survived by his children: Kim (Linda) Snell of Medina, Randall Snell of Gasport, Steven (Brandy) Snell of Burt, William Snell of Hartland, Bailey Snell of Royalton, his brother: Donald (Beverly) Snell of Hartland, his sister: Karen “Kay” (Tom) Doherty of MI, 12 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren as well as several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends SATURDAY at the Hartland Volunteer Fire Department, 8945 Ridge Rd., Gasport, NY, 14067 from 2-6pm followed by a dinner celebrating Merle’s life immediately after. Family and friends are invited to attend his Graveside Service MONDAY 11am in Hartland Cemetery.

The helpers need helping

Two incidents yesterday have put incredible heartbreak upon our volunteer first responders who serve Royalton and Hartland. We as a society don't often do enough to help the helpers -- our heroes also need shoulders to cry on, family to hug, friends to talk to. Be there for them as they always are for us.

Hartland volunteer killed while on duty

Niagara County Sheriff's Office Press Release:

Somerset, NY - On Tuesday, August 24th, 2021, Niagara County Sheriff's Office Communications received radio notification from units on scene of a field fire, that a person was struck by a fire company vehicle.

Initial investigation by Niagara County Sheriff Deputies and Officers of the Town of Somerset Police Department at the scene revealed that a Barker Fire Department Rescue Truck was backing southbound on Quaker Road when it struck and ran over a Fire Police member from the Hartland Volunteer Fire Company, who was acting as a spotter for the vehicle's driver.

The Fire Police member succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Rescue Truck was uninjured.

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

Fatal accident in Royalton

Niagara County Sheriff's Office Press Release:

ROYALTON, NY -

On August 24, 2021, the Niagara County Sheriff's Office Communications Center received multiple 911 calls reporting a 2 vehicle accident in front of 4955 Royalton Center Rd in the Town of Royalton.

Preliminary investigation shows that one vehicle crossed over the center line while traveling south on Royalton Center Rd. The second vehicle was traveling north on Royalton Center Rd and was unable to avoid the first vehicle. The vehicles collided head on. The driver of vehicle #1 was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the vehicle traveling northbound was transported to Eastern Niagara Hospital by Tri Town Ambulance for non-life threatening injuries.

The investigation is to continue by the Niagara County Accident Investigation Unit. The names of the drivers involved are being withheld at this time pending notification of the family.

Food pantry distribution

 

Hartland car show and BBQ

 

Pack 18 recruiting

 

Roy-Hart welcomes 20 new team members

 

From the Superintendent's Desk

Dear Community Members,

We are looking forward to opening schools at full capacity in September and are currently preparing our buildings for full-time (5 days per week) of in-person learning. This coming week, we will be welcoming over 20 new teachers, counselors and administrators to our District as part of a three day orientation. Our teachers, aides and monitors will return on September 1 and we will open our doors for our students on September 7.

The recruitment, interview and selection process for the District is comprehensive and involves many members of our staff. Prior to recommending teacher candidates to the Board of Education, I spend time with each person to learn more about their experiences and why they chose to apply in Roy-Hart. I often hear comments such as “the school is very welcoming,” “the staff feels more like a family than a faculty,” “the school is safe and clean,” “when you enter the building, it is clear that learning is taking place,” and “it has always been my goal to work in the Roy-Hart School District”. I am so very proud of the good work taking place in our schools and that we are a destination for many educators.

A special thank you to all of our staff for their efforts this summer in preparing for our students returning to school.

I wish to encourage all those who are eligible to consider obtaining a COVID vaccination this summer prior to the start of school. As always, I hope that you will make an effort to reach out directly or follow me on Twitter @DrStopinski

Sincerely,

Dr. Hank Stopinski

Superintendent of Schools

Roy-Hart receives $87,000 USDA grant

The grant will support the build-out of the middle school’s Family and Consumer Science Lab and the high school’s Food Science Lab:

https://www.lockportjournal.com/news/local_news/roy-hart-secures-usda-grant/article_8d38ee31-433f-510a-b20f-423498167309.html

Solar farm coming to Slayton Settlement Road

 https://www.lockportjournal.com/news/local_news/maverick-farms-to-host-solar-array/article_07608498-4668-5f71-b7ff-873e4ea59571.html?fbclid=IwAR1UNWjxedPHcCNXWrdWuL0Uw3BDT5vsEV--N_Q1hiD-2IeC9fa1FHeYjYw

E-waste recycling

 

Roy-Hart covid plan

 

From the Superintendent's Desk

August 13, 2021

Dear Community Members;

We are looking forward to opening schools at full capacity in September and are currently preparing our buildings for full-time (5 days/week) in-person learning. Last week, Superintendents across New York State were informed that there would be no direction given to school districts by either the governor’s office or the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) regarding any restrictions or requirements for operating schools in September.

This past week, I have been working with fellow Superintendents, the Niagara County Commissioner of Health and our School Board to take whatever steps are necessary to get our students back in school safely. In making our decisions, we have been monitoring data supplied to us by the Department of Health, as well as guidance from the Department of Education and CDC.

Currently, our plan for returning to full-time, in-person instruction in all our buildings on September 7, 2021 will include following these protocols:

Wearing a mask at all times is encouraged and recommended.

Masks will be worn by vaccinated and unvaccinated staff and students whenever moving about inside of buildings (upon arrival, during the change of classes, at dismissal, etc.).

Masks will be worn on buses by both vaccinated and unvaccinated students and staff.

The 3-foot social distancing guidance will be followed whenever practicable.

Masks are not required to be worn outside while on school property by either vaccinated or unvaccinated students and staff.

Masks may be removed by vaccinated and unvaccinated students once seated in the classroom or while in grouped or cohort settings (cafeteria, physical education, etc).

The effectiveness of these protocols will be reviewed on a weekly basis and adjustments will be made based on the data available and the current circumstances in our community. It is important to remember that in the event we are mandated by one of the agencies noted above, our plans will be adjusted appropriately. Throughout the pandemic, we have made it our priority to get our children back in school safely, in person, every day. I want to thank everyone for their continued support and understanding as we navigate the opening of our schools.

Sincerely,

Dr. Hank Stopinski

Superintendent of Schools