Strawberry season and Father's Day at Becker Farms

 

Supreintendent search and Juneteenth

 

Ridge View Solar update

Governor Kathy Hochul announced yesterday awards for 22 large-scale solar and energy storage projects. Among them, Ridge View Solar in Hartland

https://www.nyserda.ny.gov/About/Newsroom/2022-Announcements/2022-06-02-Governor-Hochul-Announces-22-Large-scale-Renewable-Energy-Projects

 

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.

Salt and Light Festival

 

Flag Day

In 2020, there wasn't a Flag Day ceremony due to Covid. In 2021, it was a smaller event. This year, the celebration of Old Glory returns to its full glory. Heather Maedl-Pedini will be leading the event and as you know from her past ceremonies it's an incredibly patriotic and emotional ceremony. If you've never been to a Roy-Hart Flag Day celebration, make it a point to go this year.

 

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

Roy-Hart outlines school resource officer plans

 https://www.lockportjournal.com/news/local_news/roy-hart-superintendent-outlines-school-resource-officer-plans-to-middleport-officials/article_0f870e54-1334-5ed0-9957-1f0130cacce1.html

Perkins is an all-time great

Reanna Perkins, a senior at Roy-Hart is a superstar.

She's lights-out from the mound: 1.51 ERA, 150 strikeouts.

She's deadly at the plate: .632 average, .686 on-base percentage, 1.658 slugging percentage.

Wow.

https://www.lockportjournal.com/sports/high_school/roy-hart-softball-ready-to-vanquish-past-postseason-pitfalls/article_47de9695-a2bd-56a9-a2c6-09d6d2c0a2c0.html?fbclid=IwAR1Jz3tU4YVvNuE70qEd1ngtx8NiwWUX0fXlvu3c4XBaGSMXIzrR4XjNyvc

Upcoming dates at Roy-Hart

 

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

Sara Fry 239

Nicholas Mark 223

Brian Sullivan 211

Allen Griffith 117

Cassondra Long 116

Diana Daigler 97  

School vote propositions

 

Spaghetti dinner

 

Keyes impresses at IHSA National Championships

Madeline Keyes, a graduate of Roy-Hart and an Alfred State student, impressed at the IHSA National Championships in Harrisburg, PA.

https://wellsvillesun.com/blog/2022/05/11/alfred-states-madeline-keyes-impresses-at-ihsa-national-championships/?fbclid=IwAR0D20Xfiqy5x4rQ4zNpI7RM43yuNXmdrbNPZ1wsz5Wq5Wq3do7_-0DKyok

 

Chicken BBQ

 

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

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

Norma Wollenberg has passed

Norma Wollenberg passed away last week at 95 years of age. Through the years, she did A LOT to celebrate and recognize the history and people of Gasport and Royalton. RIP.

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.

 

Gasport Lions cash raffle

 

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.

Emory had long worked at Gasport View Dairy with his family, the Whites.

You might remember Emory being highlighted on this page a few years ago when radio host Bob Lonsberry, during a live broadcast from the State Fair, had interviewed for 10 minutes Emory and his mom Amy. That interview perfectly showed the passion that Emory had for farming and family.

Our heart goes out to his family and friends. RIP.

Here's his obituary: https://cooperfuneralhome.com/tribute/details/695/Emory-Seefeldt/obituary.html?fbclid=IwAR22Ygw1sukrxiSd7XC_tzrdaBc1_qAwL9pK3u8xaxGl6g7VNzbgVSiDn-M#tribute-start

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

Fatal MVA in Gasport

 

Crafters and vendors wanted

 

The candidates for the Royaolton-Hartland Board of Education (Click on images to enlarge the documents)

 

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.

 

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:

https://www.dec.ny.gov/data/der/factsheet/932014update0422.pdf

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

No longer the interim principal

Wendy Schlosser, the temporary principal of Royhart Middle School has been approved as the school’s permanent principal.

https://www.lockportjournal.com/news/royhart-hires-new-principal/article_5066ca6f-6d1d-5914-bf4e-fa5977ee785e.html

Ridgeviw developer still at work behind the scenes

 https://www.lockportjournal.com/news/local_news/ridge-view-solar-developer-still-at-work-behind-the-scenes/article_2daa9b64-43bd-51ba-9bf7-362fdd80cb84.html

TC open house and recruitment

 

As part of the annual RecruitNY statewide initiative, the Terry's Corners Volunteer Fire Company will open its doors so residents can learn how they can serve their volunteer fire department.

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.

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.

https://orleanshub.com/roy-hart-receives-1000-grant-from-exxon-mobil-to-boost-outdoor-learning-space/

Absolut is collecting donations for Ukraine

Absolut of Gasport is collecting donations for Ukraine:

https://sports.yahoo.com/rehab-centers-collecting-supplies-ukraine-214600561.html

 

Pancake breakfast

 

Schramm Strong

 

Charles Schramm, a 7th grader at Roy-Hart Middle School, will be spending the next several weeks in the hospital undergoing radiation and chemotherapy treatment for cancer.

Charles and his family could use some support to get them through this tough time. It brightens his day when he hears about how so many people care about him.

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!

 

 https://schrammstrong.itemorder.com/shop/sale/?fbclid=IwAR2SaYE-PyISBvI9dRvPvti2cdDFXWPbmyw1kEXtSuYRy1yL41EPe3KeP4g

Food pantry distribution

If you know of anyone in need in the towns of Royalton or Hartland, the Gasport food pantry will have its monthly distribution this Saturday

 

 

 

Volunteers needed

Local football and cheerleading needs volunteers...

 

Loyal Barker/Royhart Youth Football & Cheerleading

Good afternoon Rams-

I feel we can all agree youth sports is a crucial program to our community, not only to promote health & fittness but also team work, leadership, confidence, the meaning of winning with humility and loosing with grace. These are all things that these kids carry with them even after aging out and moving into high school and collegiate athletics.

Our program is solely dependent on volunteers every practice, every game, and during the winter months prepping for the next season. Our coaches and board members commit hours upon hours of their free time to make this organization better and better each year and it shows through each and every player.

Now, we need YOUR help. We need 3 head cheerleading coaches 18+ as well as a varsity football coach & assistants for this upcoming season.

If we are unable to find the necessary leadership, we will be forced to cancel those teams this year and advise families to reach out to our neighboring teams.

Please share this to friends, family & colleagues to help us spread the word. Anyone with questions can DM our facebook page or send us an email ASAP.

John Swick and family help build an orphanage in Mexico

John Swick is a product of Royalton-Hartland who moved to Old Forge in the Adirondacks where he became principal of the Town of Webb school district. He and his family just spent 5 months helping an organization called Tapestries of Life build an orphanage for over 200 children south of the US-Mexico border. In the most recent edition of the Adirondack Express he recaps that powerful life-changing experience

https://www.adirondackexpress.com/after-5-months-away-swick-provides-update-on-orphanage-project/

2022-2023 calendar

Roy-Hart's 2022-2023 calendar is out: https://www.royhart.org/cms/lib/NY01913927/Centricity/ModuleInstance/2784/2022-2023%20Calendar%20FINAL.pdf

Royalton rezoning proposal is on hold

Royalton rezoning proposal remains on hold because of Highland Drive crowd:

https://news.yahoo.com/royalton-rezoning-proposal-remains-hold-211600671.html

March 15th spaghetti dinner

 

July 4 raffle

The Independence Day committee is having 2 raffles.

A Cash raffle and also a filled Cooler raffle.

Only 200 tickets per raffle

Tickets may be purchased at the Hartland Town Hall, Snells Service Station or from any committee member. Drawings to be held Sat. July 2nd at the Fireworks in the Hartland Town Park

 

RH String Students Participate in the NCMEA All-County Festivals

A total of twenty students from the Royalton-Hartland District Orchestras were selected to participate in the Niagara County Music Educators' Association (NCMEA) All-County Festivals that took place on February 4th & 5th, as well as February 11th & 12th, 2022, at NCCC.

Twelve Students in grades 5 through 7 participated in the NCMEA All-County Intermediate Orchestra on February 4th & 5th. Unfortunately, the All-County Festival was cancelled due to weather. The students worked very hard learning the music and were very well prepared to perform. The students selected were: Tessa Degenhardt, Lydia Grace DeMaison, Ava Dust, Lillianna Gagliano, Nevaeh Genet, Benjamin Hickman, Hannah Houseman, Reed Hughes, Addyson Kiner-Ronson, Mackenzie Landers, Jackson Lederhouse and Josephine Silsby.

Eight Students in grades 8 through 12 participated in the NCMEA All-County Junior-Senior Orchestra on February 11th & 12th. These students had intense rehearsals on Friday and Saturday Morning, which culminated in a concert on Saturday afternoon. The students selected were: Jillian Ash, Crystalina Baumer, Simon Fournier, Abigail Glyshaw, Amelia Konstanty, Maya Moebs, Charles Rickard and Sophia Santella.

All the students prepared solos that were judged by a NCMEA adjudicator and given a grade at the NCMEA Audition Festival in December. Their high scores allowed them to be selected to participate in their respective String Orchestra with string students from other school districts in Niagara County.

Hartland ball diamond usage

 

The "Hartland Recreation Committee" invites anyone interested in using their Baseball/Softball or Soccer fields this season to attend their next meeting scheduled for Monday, April 4th @ 7:00 pm

The cost of Ball Diamond Lights remain at $20.00 per field per night

Help wanted: Hartland rec

The Town of Hartland is accepting applications for this seasons Recreation Director and 4-5 Recreation Leaders. The Recreation Program runs Monday thru Thursday, July 5th thru August 11th from 9:00 am to 12 noon. There is no Recreation on Fridays.

Recreation Director must be at least 21 yrs of age and have a valid drivers license. This position is salary at $2200.00 for the season. Leaders must be at least 16 yrs of age and will earn minimum wage. All applicants must be Hartland or Royalton residents and must submit applications no later than Friday, April 22, 2022.

Questions, please call Audrey @ 716 257 8110

Candy store opens in Middleport

 If you've got a sweet tooth, your dreams came true: A candy store opened this week in Middleport. Xroo Candy is located on Main Street. Their website is: www.xroo.com, their Facebook page is: https://www.facebook.com/Xroo-Candy-106021058658097

Troop 18 pancake breakfast

 

New fire engine

Gasport Chemical Hose has announced their new engine, coming in early 2023! This new truck will be replacing the current Engine 2 which is now 26 years old. The current Engine 2 will remain in service until they have delivery of the new one, so there will be no break in fire protection. 

Verratti Farms Guns N Grub

SAVE THE DATE: Guns’N’Grub 2022

April 30th, 11am-4pm

Watch here for event information coming soon!

Pulled Pork Dinner

 

Roy-Hart showcases its agricultural program

 https://www.lockportjournal.com/news/local_news/roy-hart-showcases-its-agriculture-program/article_06032a59-e665-570c-8c3c-3bb5ec54c9ed.html

Into the Woods

 

Vendor and craft show

 

Spring boquets

The Town of Royalton has these available at Town Hall this week

 

 

No masks

 

From the Superintendent's Desk

February 27, 2022

Dear Roy-Hart Community:

As you may be aware, the state-wide mask mandate for schools in New York State will be lifted by Governor Hochul on Wednesday, March 2, 2022.  Therefore, effective Wednesday, the wearing of masks will no longer be required in our schools or at school-related functions.  However, we do encourage anyone with any ongoing health concerns, whether for themselves or others, to continue wearing a mask and we assure you that your choice to do so will not result in being ostracized, harassed or excluded from any activity, opportunity or experience provided by the District.  

The lifting of the mask mandate will not change our daily practices with regards to maintaining a safe, hygienic environment for our students and staff.  In addition, the lifting of the mask mandate does not change our isolation or quarantining/test-to-stay protocols for students and staff who test positive for COVID, are exposed to a COVID positive individual or who exhibit COVID-like symptoms.  The weekly testing of staff will continue until we receive guidance from the Department of Health and Department of Education.

I continue to encourage everyone to practice good personal health and hygiene practices, such as covering your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, washing your hands frequently and sanitizing as appropriate.  I believe that there will continue to be updates in the days and weeks to come and encourage you to monitor the District website for more information.

Sincerely,

 Dr. Hank Stopinski

Superintendent of Schools

New manager at Standish-Jones

 

Roy-Hart rallies around Jack

 Roy-Hart rallies around 4-year-old Jack Waterman and his family during cancer fight

https://www.lockportjournal.com/sports/local_sports/roy-hart-rallies-around-4-year-old-jack-waterman-family-during-cancer-fight/article_df71d7b8-fa05-5970-ba5c-660a06809d81.html

Silsby appointed to board

 The Royalton-Hartland school board welcomed a new member at its Wednesday night meeting. Brandi Silsby was appointed to the board: https://www.lockportjournal.com/news/local_news/silsby-joins-the-roy-hart-school-board/article_51d04006-d950-5300-9ab3-4757c8f4c9bd.html

School supply donations

 There is a collection bin at the Royalton Town Hall

Chili at the Church

 

River otter survey

Yesterday, there were some NYSDEC wildlife biologists searching our stream and neighboring streams in Gasport as part of their river otter survey. This is a statewide project they've undertaken

https://suncommunitynews.com/news/94798/dec-repeats-otter-surveys/

 

Head-on accident in Royalton

 

Niagara County Sheriff's Office Press Release:

Royalton, NY - On Monday, February 7th, 2022, the Niagara County Sheriff's Office received a 911 call reporting a motor vehicle accident on Chestnut Ridge Road east of Royalton Center Road, in the Town of Royalton.

Initial investigation by Deputies at the scene revealed that a 2007 Dodge pickup truck was traveling east on Chestnut Ridge Road and a 2013 GMC pickup truck west on Chestnut Ridge Road, when the two vehicles struck each other near the center of the roadway. Following contact, both vehicles came to rest in the roadway near the point of impact without further incident. The driver of the 2007 Dodge was transported by Mercy Flight to ECMC due to life threatening injuries. The driver of the 2013 GMC pickup suffered a broken leg in the collision and was transported by ambulance to ECMC for treatment. His two passengers both suffered non-life threatening injuries and were transported to Eastern Niagara Hospital by ambulance for treatment.

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

No school Friday

Roy-Hart is closed Friday due to a snow emergency. All afterschool activities are canceled. A decision on Saturday events will be made later today.

 

Basket raffle for Buda

 

Red Zastrow has passed away

Earlier this week, Gasport lost Red Zastrow. He actively volunteered with Terry's Corners for 57 years. Let that sink in: For almost 60 years he trained, fought fires, directed traffic, and did so many things behind the scenes. That's impressive. HE was impressive. RIP

Marlin “Red” Zastrow, 82, of Gasport, NY.   A devoted father, husband, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, Jan 19, 2022.  Born in Wilson, NY to Elmer and Gertrude Zastrow on March 15, 1939.  Red retired from Harrison Radiator.  He was an active member of Terry’s Corners Firehall for 57 years.  

Red’s life revolved around his family, especially those of his six daughters.  He was a constant and loving presence in their lives, made the extra effort to stay in touch, share a good laugh and openly express his love for them. He had many friendships that spanned decades and always enjoyed a cold beer with friends.

He is survived by his sisters Myra Fry of Lockport, NY, and Annabelle (Arthur) Bird of Niagara Falls, NY.  His daughters Tammy (Rob) Flaherty of Annapolis, MD, Debbie (Mike) Palladino of Tonawanda, NY, Sherrie (Dan) MacNeill of Homer, NY, Kelly (Dale) Wick of Mendon, NY, Darcy Watson of N. Tonawanda, NY, Paula (Brian) LeBere of Englewood, FL, nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.   He is pre-deceased by his wife Carrol (Welton).  Sisters Joan Vought, Pauline Fry, Phyllis Shank, and brother Howard Zastrow.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.   In lieu of flowers and a planted tree, please consider donating to Terry’s Corners Volunteer Fire Company, 7801 Chestnut Ridge Road, Gasport, NY 14607.

Jesse Bieber's obituary

Often silently, giving no warning, but surely relentlessly, deaf to the expressions of human woe, the angel of death flits into our midst and as if mocking our blindness, touches in the stillness of the night one in whom we see no alarming signs of decay. When the morning breaks we are mourning for one dead. Such are today the friends of Jesse R Bieber. He departed this life at 12:04 PM on Wednesday, January 19, 2022, an illness of Covid-19 after only 21 days.

Jesse was born on February 15, 1965, at EJ Myers Hospital, Buffalo. On January 19, 2022 he took his last breath in the same hospital that he took his first breath, currently known as ECMC.

Jesse was blessed with amazing parents. Douglas (deceased) and Mary Jane Bieber.  At the age of 32 Jesse was reunited with his birth father Kenny (Joanne) Parris and predeseased by his step dad, Harold Cleckley.

He leaves behind the love of his life, and as he affectionately calls her, his first wife, of 33 years 2 months and 1 day, Jennifer (Bruning) Bieber along with his two loving children, Joshua Bieber of Middleport and Jolene (Jackie) Bieber of Gasport.

He is survived by his mother-in-laws Charlene Richey and Mary Beth Dooley. His sisters Melissa (Todd) Hansler, Tricia (Chris) Suba, Kerry James, Shonda Cleckley,  sister-in-laws Gretchen Bruning, Megan Bruning, Ingrid Bruning, brothers Keith (Tammy) Parris, Kenny (Michelle) Parris, Kevin Parris and Jason Cleckley.  Brother-In-laws Martin (Jenna) Bruning, Gabe (Jenna) Bruning.  He was Godfather to Miss Charitie Bruning, Miss Hannah Suba and was predeseased by Wyatt Jeffords.

He is also survived by countless nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles. He was loved by so many dear and cherished friends.  He loved you all! 

Jesse loved his family, farming, auctions, his beagle puppy Jack, spending time by the campfire with friends, going to concerts, taking long drives and as he would say he was a “collector of collectibles and treasures” as well as a tractor enthusiast. He had a passion for Town of Royalton history and genealogy. He helped dozens of people find and reunite with their birth families.

He was the Town of Royalton Historian for 16 years. He worked for the Department of Agriculture for 12 years as an enumerator. He loved visiting all the farms around Western New York and enjoyed talking to all the farmers. He was the keeper of the Memories of Royalton, Gasport, and Middleport Facebook page.

He was a member of the Town of Royalton Historical Society, Royalton Planning Board, Trinity Lutheran Church of Wolcottsville, Roy-Hart Agricultural Education Committee, Niagara County 4-H program, Niagara County Farm Bureau, WNY Gas & Steam Engine Association and Chairman of the Royalton Bicentennial Committee.  He was a former member of the Cornell Cooperation Board of Directors.

Jesse was known for his quick wit and sense of humor. He also had a vast knowledge of not only history but of trivia, agriculture and tractors. He was a jack of all trades which was showcased when Jesse and Jennifer built their own home with the help of their amazing family and friends.

Family will receive friends at Bates, Wallace and Heath Funeral Home, Middleport, NY on Tuesday, January 25th.  Hours will be 12-3 with an open casket and a closed casket from 5-8. 

We will meet at Trinity Lutheran Church, the red brick church, in Wolcottsville, at high noon on Wednesday, January 26th.  Directly after the service we will proceed to the Wolcottsville fire hall for a Celebration of Life! Please bring your memories and your laughter.  Family and friends will be present at the fire hall until 6:00pm. Casual dress is required at all arrangements, as per Jesse’s request.

In lieu of flowers please make donations in Jesse’s memory to Niagara County 4-H Sponsors, 4487 Lake Ave, Lockport, NY 14094 or the Gasport Beautification Committee, 8770 Rochester Rd, Gasport, NY 14067.

Jesse Bieber has passed away

My heart goes out to the Biebers. Jesse was a wonderful, warm soul who valued family, farming, and community. He was fantastic as the storyteller and keeper of local history. He approached that calling with the same love and care that elementary school teachers do with their students -- he always made sure that when he shared some historical tidbits or answered some questions that he made it a WOW moment for his audience. He loved helping people further understand and further love our community. He'll be missed. When I tell ya he was one of the good ones, he really was. RIP.

New manager at FMC Middleport

 

Katie Russell has been named manager of FMC’s Agricultural Sciences Plant in Middleport. The local Agricultural Sciences plant formulates and packages a number of key FMC product lines to protect over 100 crops in more than 75 countries worldwide.

Russell joined FMC in 2017 as part of its Technical Center, which supports FMC’s global network of manufacturing sites on improvement projects, introducing new products, and driving process safety.

“I am excited to be joining the FMC Middleport team as the plant manager and to engage with our local community as we continue to grow our operation,” she said.

A native of Doylestown, Pa., Russell has a bachelor of science degree in chemical engineering from Villanova University. She began her career working in a series of process engineering roles in industries ranging from nuclear power to metallurgical coke manufacturing.

She also worked in project engineering roles in developing small capital projects, overseeing a $30 million equipment repair program, and establishing procedures for the project development process.

At FMC, she implemented a 50% capacity improvement project at the Middleport site and developed the global structure for the organization that supports FMC formulation and packaging sites similar to the Middleport plant. Prior to coming to Middleport, Russell was the production manager for one of the operating units at an FMC manufacturing site in Mobile, AL.

“My fiancé, Jack, and I are looking forward to exploring Western New York and adapting to winter weather through many snowy outdoor adventures with our puppy, Keith,” she said.