There have been countless postings on Facebook about garbage pick-ups being delayed across WNY because of the blizzard. Fear not, Royalton residents -- for us, garbage and recycling pick-up will be on schedule this week.
THE site for news, commentary, and history about the smallest and most charming place on the Erie Canal
Tuesday, December 27, 2022
Wednesday, December 21, 2022
Vizcarra to participate in ag committee
Governor Hochul recently announced that a special working group of state agencies and agricultural community stakeholders will collaborate to address issues in the agricultural industry. Among the 12 ag participants: Gasport's Oscar Vizcarra of Becker Farms
https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-convenes-working-group-support-new-york-farmers
Monday, December 19, 2022
Republican Committee is seeking candidates
The Town of Royalton Republican Committee is seeking candidates for Town Supervisor and Town Highway superintendent positions, to fill 2-year terms starting 1 January, 2024.
The Town of Royalton Republican Committee will be meeting candidates on 18 January 2023 between 6:30 and 8:30 pm.
Please contact Scott Wymyczak@ 716-417-5151 The Town of Royalton Republican Chair to schedule an appointment.
Thursday, December 15, 2022
Mrs. Lenhardt has passed away
Carol Lenhardt passed unexpectedly but peacefully on December 4, 2022 at the age of 88. She was born on June 20, 1934 in Chili, NY to Lawrence and Esther (Ebertz) Lenhardt. Esther passed away when Carol was very young, and Lawrence re-married to Ruth (Banister) Lenhardt. Ruth raised Carol and her brother, Frank as her own children for the rest of her life.
Preferring rural school districts, she chose Royalton Hartland district to teach math and science in middle and high school. When first moving to the area, she rented apartments. Then with her father’s help, she decided to build her own home in Medina. In 2015 she decided to move closer to her family and chose the Parkland Legacy in Chili.
Carol was involved in many activities while in Medina. She sewed costumes and painted scenery for school plays. She enjoyed singing in local choirs. She was very active in the New York State Science Teacher’s Association. Her Dad had always told her she could become whatever she wanted to be. Carol was always self-assured.
Upon retiring in the 80’s, she returned to school at the University of Buffalo where she earned her PhD, and supervised student teachers when they went out to practice teach. During her life, she was quite a world traveler. She took extended tours to Hawaii, Galapagos Islands, New Zealand, Germany and Alaska.
Carol is survived by her brother Frank Lenhardt (Joan), nephew Joe Lenhardt (Cherry), niece Mary Lenhardt (Al Pratt), great nephews Ian and Nicholas Lenhardt, and cousin Ray Potter.
Carol’s Funeral Mass will be held at 11 AM Saturday December 17, 2022 at St. Martin de Porres Parish at St. Mary of the Assumption Church, 99 Main St. Scottsville. Interment St. Pius 10th Cemetery, Chili.
Wednesday, December 14, 2022
Thursday, December 8, 2022
Monday, December 5, 2022
Drone survey of Canal
Drone flights will be performed in the following areas:
The contractors completing the survey work will be wearing high-visibility vests as they operate a drone flying overhead near the canal structures. The Canal Corporation will minimize any disruption to access of the nearby trails.
This routine work is not associated with the Canal Corporation's proposed Earthen Embankment Integrity Program.
It is anticipated that this survey process will be completed by June 30, 2023.
More information is available by visiting the Canal Corporation's website.
The Canal Corporation appreciates the public's patience while this work is completed.
Friday, December 2, 2022
Mitten tree
Pick a mitten, shop for that mitten and drop off the gift with the mitten attached to one of the following drop off locations by Friday, December 9th.
Your donation is greatly appreciated. Help make someone's Christmas this year.
Drop Off Locations:
Christmas Party
The Gasport Beautification Commitee's annual Community Christmas Party for the kids and Basket Raffle is Sunday, December 11th at the Gasport Fire Hall. 2pm-4pm. Come see Santa, go on a Horse and Wagon Ride, bid on the basket raffle, see Freckle the clown face painter. There will be 50/50, coffee, hot cocoa, cider and cookies.
Tuesday, October 4, 2022
Schramm Strong
To try to raise money to pay for these expenses, the Schramm Family is holding another benefit on October 16 at Oakfield Town Park. There will be a cornhole tournament, a basket raffle, and a side raffle featuring Beckett-certified, autographed, and framed Bills Jerseys from Josh Allen and Stefon Diggs.
The last benefit had a wonderful turnout and we are hoping this one does as well. The Schramm family is very touched by and thankful for all of the support they have received so far from the Roy-Hart community. Please see the attached flyer for complete details.
If anyone is interested in donating baskets, you may contact Lori Schramm via phone or text at (585)813-7178.
Friday, September 23, 2022
SROs at Roy-Hart
The Royalton-Hartland district’s new school resource officers began work with the start of the new school year. h
https://www.lockportjournal.com/news/local_news/sros-on-duty-at-roy-hart/article_9f89b584-2fc9-11ed-bab6-371f9983cbbf.html?fbclid=IwAR2nbZiQSI1V6KReg5Nlsnm8s8Gqbs7vLqSqReHt1m7Y4nSoT8eIuLyAK0w
Roy-Hart's newest soccer scoring leader
Peter Martillotta has been playing for his father since his 8-and-under days. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, he had to evaluate the trajectory of his soccer career.
Loving soccer was never an
issue, but Martillotta had to decide if he wanted to play in college and
if he was willing to give the necessary effort to make it happen. The
answer became quite clear and Martillotta took his game to another gear.
https://www.lockportjournal.com/sports/sectional-title-last-item-on-peter-martillottas-wishlist-after-becoming-roy-harts-all-time-leading/article_b4a926aa-27fe-54b6-b06c-e9e8fd1a0b6b.html?fbclid=IwAR0f0Y13YY_G0p-sDHnMNWBrVWvYqoR8TrKkP_yd-5OqgvKqTLAIgOV7IWA
Roy-Hart to pay $16,000 for super search
Royalton Hartland Central School District is paying $16,000 to the
Western New York Educational Services Council for its help finding a
permanent superintendent of schools.
https://www.lockportjournal.com/news/local_news/roy-hart-paying-16k-for-superintendent-search-help/article_52d8dd84-347c-11ed-842e-cf2c17c1cd5d.html?fbclid=IwAR0Uw0XNibcduowj3mc23GDQvnauj19Qho5sdMwOt7yKL3-WFYi_s-N8z-w
Thursday, September 1, 2022
Boyler retires after 21 years of service
Today the town of Hartland says farewell to Cynthia Boyler, the Hartland Town Clerk. Cindy severed the Town as a Deputy Clerk for 10 years starting in September 2001 before serving as Town Clerk for over 11 years. Town officials wish her well in her retirement and thank her for her years of dedication to the Town of Hartland.
Sunday, August 28, 2022
Accident victims IDed
INCIDENT TYPE: FATAL MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT (UPDATE)
Hartland, NY- The parties involved in the motor vehicle
Investigation by The Niagara County Sheriff's Office
Friday, August 26, 2022
Tuesday, August 23, 2022
Friday, August 19, 2022
Niagara Wine Trail and Bills alumni team up
Buffalo Bills Alumni members will be stationed at various Niagara Wine Trail locations during the Trail's Preseason Kick-Off event for photograph and autograph opportunities.
https://niagarawinetrail.org/preseason-kickoff/
Thursday, August 18, 2022
Beltran having an impact in the Navy
Jerry Beltran, a 2019 graduate of Roy-Hart, is supporting the US Navy's “Take Charge and Move Out” mission:
https://navyoutreach.blogspot.com/2022/08/middleport-native-supports-us-navys.html
Tuesday, August 16, 2022
Jackass Love video
Michele DeLuca's documentary "Jackass Love" about Gasport's Whispering River Animal Rescue can be watched here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-2yz6PdpTE4
Friday, August 5, 2022
Food pantry cupboard
The Gasport Food Pantry has added a 24/7 option to its regular monthly distributions: A cupboard has been placed at the corner of Main and Church Streets. If you are in need, please use it.
Tuesday, August 2, 2022
Disc golf concerns
Environmental concerns have arisen over disc golf courses, including the one at Royalton Ravine Park
https://buffalonews.com/news/local/its-nature-lovers-vs-disc-golfers-in-niagara-county-parks/article_561e871a-0df2-11ed-8f3d-630dd7ce4420.html?utm_campaign=snd-autopilot&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook_The_Buffalo_News&fbclid=IwAR37zWN6xr-pOmXUp6J26Kd9NY6SSeuZMmSYOPvU7o5u3-zECQRe2akAjPE
Friday, July 29, 2022
Special event at Northern Light
August marks the 1-year anniversary of the opening of Northern Light Fashions And Creations in Gasport. Aurora Genet will be celebrating with a special event on Tuesday, August 16th from 5-8pm. Stop by to see and shop her silk floral work and countless gift items.
Friday, July 22, 2022
Vacanti to headline Salt and Light Festival
Niagara County's Joshua Vacanti, who got national attention on The Voice, is headlining the Salt and Light Festival in Gasport this weekend
https://www.lockportjournal.com/news/lifestyles/vacanti-to-sing-originals-at-salt-light-festival/article_da5b8cae-0941-11ed-bede-b72a286803f7.html
Tuesday, July 19, 2022
Monday, July 18, 2022
Monday, July 11, 2022
Wednesday, July 6, 2022
Perkins named softball player of the year
Roy-Hart's Reanna Perkins was named GNN's Softball Player of
the Year. What a season -- what a career! -- as she excelled at the
plate and from the mound. She's certainly one of the greatest athletes
this school district has seen
https://www.niagara-gazette.com/sports/gnn-player-of-the-year-hard-work-multi-sport-skills-lead-roy-harts-reanna-perkins/article_2dc08dfb-7fe1-5ac5-b05b-88c238abd993.html?fbclid=IwAR3-804d10XWKMywnXhZ1ch-UAjptzg9kuG3CG-48tCY9X6G1YWniBsCkLI
The history of Orangeport
The
Slayton Settlement/Orangeport area of Gasport is my neighborhood. I'm
really digging this history of it that's in the Lockport paper. A
big "thank you!" to Anne Marie Linaberry and Norm Pearson
https://www.lockportjournal.com/news/lifestyles/niagara-discoveries-slayton-settlement-orangeport-communities-once-thrived-along-the-erie-canal/article_6ca1a1ba-fd23-55c3-ad9b-e9f1d1517573.html?fbclid=IwAR2FGO4aTT1geCra-07Z5dN6HvT3myqWRzMNZ0dPV2sDykqo-dDaEgdaxcI
Charlie Brigham at Michigan
Gasport's Charlie Brigham is pondering careers in broadcasting, coaching at Michigan
https://www.lockportjournal.com/sports/local_sports/gasport-native-charlie-brigham-pondering-careers-in-broadcasting-coaching-at-michigan/article_fba6aae9-00f5-59ab-8cc6-b5a3951f2683.html?fbclid=IwAR2nUt0u-sbAapblmdR22yvSrzWvjn8q4vC5bBR0SJ8w1arZ4HfE_7lufvw
Tuesday, June 14, 2022
Monday, June 13, 2022
Friday, June 3, 2022
Ridge View Solar update
https://www.nyserda.ny.gov/About/Newsroom/2022-Announcements/2022-06-02-Governor-Hochul-Announces-22-Large-scale-Renewable-Energy-Projects
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
Gasport Canal power
Notice to Mariners
Erie Canal – Gasport
June 1, 2022
Mariners are advised that the Gasport Landing shore power supply, operated by the Town of Royalton, is out of service and access has been blocked. The Town of Royalton is addressing the outage.
Thursday, May 26, 2022
Flag Day
Wednesday, May 25, 2022
Law enforcement coverage at schools
Roy-Hart Community Members,
As you may be aware, an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas became victim to another mass shooting, resulting in the senseless loss of life. It was an act of violence and hate that is almost unimaginable to the kind and caring people of this world.
We understand our local community continues to mourn the loss from the recent shooting in Buffalo, and our counselors, social workers, and entire staff are always available should your children need additional support.
The District continues to work with local law enforcement who will provide additional coverage at our schools for the remainder of the school year. Please remind your students and children to always report any threatening comments (If you see something, say something).
Sincerely,
Dr. Hank Stopinski
Superintendent
Thursday, May 19, 2022
Perkins is an all-time great
Reanna Perkins, a senior at Roy-Hart is a superstar.
Wednesday, May 18, 2022
Results of school budget/board vote
VOTING RESULTS
Proposition 1 (2022-2023 Budget) Passed
Yes 419
No 142
Proposition 2 (Use of Capital Reserve for Equipment) Passed
Yes 477
No 88
Proposition 3 (Fund Repair Reserve) Passed
Yes 455
No 105
Proposition 4 (Community Library Funding) Passed
Yes 415
No 143
____________________________________________________
Board Members (3)
Brandi Silsby 291
Jesse Snyder 289
Nicholas Mark 223
Brian Sullivan 211Allen Griffith 117
Cassondra Long 116
Diana Daigler 97
Tuesday, May 17, 2022
Monday, May 16, 2022
Keyes impresses at IHSA National Championships
https://wellsvillesun.com/blog/2022/05/11/alfred-states-madeline-keyes-impresses-at-ihsa-national-championships/?fbclid=IwAR0D20Xfiqy5x4rQ4zNpI7RM43yuNXmdrbNPZ1wsz5Wq5Wq3do7_-0DKyok
Friday, May 13, 2022
Wednesday, May 11, 2022
Roy-Hart's candidates
The Lockport Union-Sun and Journal looks at the eight candidates for Roy-Hart's school board
https://www.lockportjournal.com/news/local_news/candidate-profiles-for-roy-hart-school-board/article_cc0058b2-9aeb-5e98-aedc-ccb18eb620e8.html
Friday, May 6, 2022
The "Hit List"
Authorities were called to the Middle School on Tuesday after a seventh-grade student was found in possession of a list of names in a notebook that had been titled “Hit List.”
https://www.lockportjournal.com/middle-school-hit-list-found-at-roy-hart/article_1e44ade1-f6ff-5f70-902e-f2223624957c.html
Monday, May 2, 2022
Norma Wollenberg has passed
Here is Norma's obituary:
Norma Jean Wollenberg, 95, passed away on April 28, 2022. She was born in Lockport, NY on Oct.5, 1926, the daughter of the late Frederick A. And Eldia Arns Zimmerman. Her husband 0f 49 years, Carl W. Wollenberg was the Director of the Physical Plant Facilities at Niagara Community College, deceased in 1998.
She is the loving mother of Bryan K. Wollenberg of Middleport. Residing in the Gasport area most of her life, she was a graduate of the last class of the Middleport High School (1944).
A cosmetologist and beauty salon owner for 50 plus years, she was a graduate of the Robert’s School of Beauty Culture and the Robert Fiance Hair Design Institute of New York City.
Through the years she and her husband were active in many community events in the Royalton area.
Her library and love of History and Genealogy brought forth interest and membership in numerous Historical Societies. Among the highlights in their life of volunteerism was the chairing and co-chairing of the ceremonies held at the Town of Royalton Bicentennial and the Gasport Sesquicentennial celebration in May of 1976 with the dedication of the art sculpture “Flame” in the park by the Erie Canal at Gasport, NY.
The Town of Royalton Historical Society’s interest in procuring recognition for the Royalton native Belva A. Lockwood, who ran for President if the United States, not once but twice 1884,1888 on a U.S. Postage Stamp resulted in a four-year campaign. It was successfully completed with a First Day of Issue Ceremonies in Middleport, N.Y in June 1986.
She was a past Matron and life member of the Gasport Chapter O.E.S.#153 with 72 plus years of membership. Her membership in the Covenant United Church in Gasport covered many years.
A sister Phyllis A. George of Rice, Texas predeceased her.
She is survived her son Bryan Wollenberg (Cathi McCaa), a niece Vicky Young of Rice Texas and a nephew James George (Sheri) of Garland Texas.
There will be no calling hours. Private graveside services will be held at Acacia Park Cemetery in N. Tonawanda.
Memorials may be contributed to the charity of one’s choice.
Norma’s arrangements have been entrusted to Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home, 38 State St. Middleport.
To share a special memory of Norma, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
Friday, April 29, 2022
Victim of car crash identified
The Niagara County Sheriffs Office has identified the victim of Wednesday morning's one-car motor vehicle accident in Gasport as Emory Seefeldt, who was just 18 years of age.
Thursday, April 28, 2022
Music education recognized
Roy-Hart has once again been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation
https://www.lockportjournal.com/community/roy-hart-once-again-a-best-community-for-music-education/article_01f23f98-d5b2-5a6c-b58b-d6b36fe7aa9f.html
Wednesday, April 27, 2022
Tuesday, April 26, 2022
Friday, April 22, 2022
Tuesday, April 19, 2022
Jonesie has passed
Roy-Hart alumnus Gary Jones has passed away. As the lead of Jonesie and the Crusiers, he was a vital part of the community in Niagara and Orleans Counties. He performed in front of, and brought good times to, hundreds of thousands of people through the years, and he and his bands entertained at countless fundraisers that benefited all. RIP
Gary E. “Jonesie” Jones passed away April 18, 2022. Born June 14, 1946 in Lockport, he was the son of Edward F. and Eleanor (Bistoff) Jones. Jonesie was a graduate of Roy-Hart, Class of 1964. He served in the US Air Force from 1966 to 1968 and was a member of the United States Air Force Band. Since 1979, He worked for Strate Welding Supply, where he was a manager. He was best known as a musician since 1968, singing with Rotary Bed and then Jonesie & the Cruisers. Jonesie was an avid fan of both the Buffalo Bills and New York Yankees. He loved watching races at Ransomville Speedway and riding his motorcycle with friends. He was predeceased by his parents and his infant brother Edward F. Jones, Jr.
Jonesie is survived by his wife Tina L. (Barrancotta) Jones; children William E. (Julie Fumanti) Jones, Nadine (Michael) Pantano, and Ashley Jones; grandson Michael Pantano, Jr.; siblings Richard (Anne) Jones, Judy Jones-Bell, and Robert (Debi) Jones; also several nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends may call Thursday, April 21st from 4-7 PM in Prudden & Kandt Funeral Home, 242 Genesee St., Lockport where funeral services will beheld Friday, April 22nd at 10 AM. Interment will be in Cold Springs Cemetery. Visit pruddenandkandt.com.
Friday, April 8, 2022
Vacanti to highlight Salt and Light Festival
The Salt & Light festival in Gasport this July will have a singing competition judged by Lockport's Joshua Vacanti (he of "The Voice" fame) who will provide a concert after the contest. Registration is now open to contestants
FMC update
This link opens a fact sheet that provides an update about the environmental cleanup status for the FMC Corporation – Middleport Facility site within New York’s State Superfund Program:
Dr. Stopinski is moving on to Depew
From the Superintendent's Desk
Roy-Hart Community Members,
It is with mixed emotions that I share with you that effective June 30, I will be resigning my position as the Royalton-Hartland Central School District Superintendent of Schools.
On Tuesday, July 1, I will begin the next step of my career as the Superintendent of Schools at the Depew Union Free School District. Between now and then, I will offer my assistance to the Board of Education as they transition to their new Superintendent.
Over the past four years, we have collectively completed the goals that the Board of Education requested of us. We have made significant progress in the areas of school safety, academics, finance, facilities and more. Together, we have improved our schools with a 12.1 million dollar capital improvement project, invested over 1.7 million dollars in our STEAM and Agriculture programs with public and private investments and have made annual capital outlay projects that have improved many aspects of the schools.
I am proud to share that we have been able to develop a long-range financial plan, aligned our curriculum, completed a District Strategic Plan, and will soon complete a long-range Facilities Master Plan for the District that will guide its work for over 10 years. We have navigated over two years of a COVID-19 pandemic and will invest over four million dollars to close the learning gaps and support students in need that were impacted by the pandemic.
During my time in Roy-Hart, I have enjoyed the athletic competitions, music performances, the musicals, awards ceremonies, reading to our elementary students and time spent with my student advisory committee. Being present at the recognition ceremonies for our students and staff, attending sectional, regional and State championships have been truly enjoyable for me. I appreciate the amazing work of the administration, teachers, and staff. The support from the Agriculture Foundation, Sports Booster Club, Music Parents and PTA, and all our parents and community members have offered over the years is a testament to the Roy-Hart community. I will truly miss you, and the memories will last forever.
Once again, thank you for your support over the past four years.
Sincerely,
Dr. Hank Stopinski
Superintendent of Schools
Thursday, April 7, 2022
No longer the interim principal
Wendy Schlosser, the temporary principal of Royhart Middle School has been approved as the school’s permanent principal.
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Monday, April 4, 2022
TC open house and recruitment
Volunteer fire departments across New York State are struggling with decreased membership and increased call volume. Like most volunteer fire departments, the Terry's Corners VFC needs to bolster its ranks so it can continue to provide the optimum level of protection for its residents.
As part of RecruitNY Weekend, the Terry's Corners VFC will open its doors on Saturday, April 23 from Noon until 4pm. The Company is located at 7801 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Gasport, NY. They will be joining volunteer fire departments across New York to raise public awareness regarding the need for volunteers and to highlight the rewards of being a member of a volunteer fire department.
Throughout the day, the Terry's Corners Volunteer Fire Company will conduct tours of the station and apparatus, allow visitors to try on gear, demonstrate firefighting activities, provide information, and address questions on becoming a member.
Wednesday, March 30, 2022
Book fair this week
A published author and independent book store owner is partnering with Royalton-Hartland High School to put on the annual spring book fair this week.
https://www.lockportjournal.com/community/roy-hart-book-fair-begins-on-wednesday/article_236a7fc4-efb0-5f80-8385-ec677c937d0d.html
Roy-Hart receives outdoor space grant
For the second year in a row, the Royalton-Hartland Elementary School has received $1,000 to use towards their outdoor classroom space.
Thursday, March 24, 2022
Absolut is collecting donations for Ukraine
https://sports.yahoo.com/rehab-centers-collecting-supplies-ukraine-214600561.html
Schramm Strong
Here is a link to a store to purchase apparel to support Charles and his family. Charles' friends and family would like to thank Jay at D&T Graphics for putting this all together so quickly.
$10.00 from each apparel purchase and $5.00 from the hat and bag purchases will go directly to the family.
Please choose "pickup" as your shipping option if you have a child in the middle school or are willing to pick it up from the main office. Otherwise, please choose "shipped," but expect to be charged approximately $8.
Thank you for supporting a Roy-Hart family!