Visit On-Line: The Restaurant or The Bed & Breakfast
Man shot dead on North Transit Street. Multiple police agencies were seeking a 5’10”, black man, about 150 pounds, Tuesday night, 7/29, after a criminal assassination on North Transit Street in Lockport. 40-year old Daniel Tomlinson of 283 North Transit (near Washington) was shot dead Tuesday night. According to reports to the Lockport Home Page, the gunman fled the scene on foot, onto Grand Street about 9:30PM. He reportedly was wearing a short-sleeve, blue plaid collar shirt and had his hair in some kind of “roll” or dreadlocks. Police indicate the victim had been shot several times while working on cars. Tomlinson reportedly was facing drug and gun charges in Niagara County Court. (7/30/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
More police trouble for Huston family. Steve Sr. is the one who has been championed by the Lockport Union-Sun & Journal. He claimed (racial) discrimination because he was turned down in efforts to start an eating and drinking establishment next to his home on Michigan Street, a residential neighborhood. Since then it he has been involved in regular charges against the city and the police department, most always with racial complaints. This week, the son, Steven C. Houston, 36 of 342 Michigan was arrested when police were called to South Street Monday, 7/21. There a woman was complaining of being attacked and "choked" and Huston was charged. In the process, police say, he hit a police officer. Also this week, Marcus J. Huston, 21, also of the Michigan Street family quarters, entered a plea of "guilty" after being charged with resisting arrest during an incident that goes back to June 17th. He'll be fined $120 dollars and spend four days on a work program. (7/26/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Board Of Ed rejects candidate for Johnson seat.
After several weeks of beating around the bush, the Lockport School District Board of Education unanimously voted to reject the proposed appointment of Michael D'Addeo to the Board, to fill the seat that became vacant when Jane Johnson died in early June. D'Addeo had garnered over a thousand votes in the June Board of Education ---an impressive tally considering he was running against Clip Smith who beat him by slightly over 600 votes. But the Board didn't want D'Addeo. He had said when running for election that he would seek to cut school taxes by 25%. That kind of talk is in direct conflict with educators' yearly goal to increase spending and let taxes follow. The Board will leave Johnson's seat vacant until next June. (7/24/03) To be filed under Lockport School NewsPaper slams Kibler again, long obit lauds indicted union chief.
The Lockport Union Sun & Journal published this week another of the series of contrasts that it has been so often criticized for. Managing Editor Denise Young bemoans the fact that the Democrat Party was unable to come up with a candidate to run against Lockport Alderman-at-Large Joe Kibler (R). Kibler was under attack by the newspaper several times within the last year and the paper's "editorial board" has declared that he "shouldn't hold public office." One of the devices the paper used against Kibler was a series of articles that smeared the retired banker on racial grounds. A similar tactic was used against the Lockport Police Department. Before the smear campaign against him, Kibler was seen as so popular locally that he would have defeated Mayor Tom Sullivan if he were to run against him in November '03. On a more positive note, the newspaper reports the death of indicted Niagara Falls Laborers Local (former) Business Manager, Michael Quarcini. "Butch" was under indictment on federal racketeering charges (along with 13 other members of his union). The paper ran a long laudatory obituary for Quarcini. On a front page news report it included quotes from a Niagara Falls School Board member, Mark Zito, saying, "I thought he was a very honest man who was only guilty of loving his workers." (7/15/03) To be filed under Media MonitorCrime down, arrests up in Lockport City. The City of Lockport Police Department presented an impressive report on its operations during 2002. The report states the number of crimes reported declined 3,259 in 2001 to 2,925 in 2000 --- about a ten percent reduction. Arrests, however, increased by 37 over the same period to 1,732. (7/15/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Lockport city losing population fast. The city was cited in the latest Census report as among the five cities that were losing population the fastest since 2001 in New York State. The reduction to just over 21,000 people was blamed by the Sullivan Administration on the city police department, high rental housing prices, and growth in the Town of Lockport. However, other observers noted skyrocketing city property tax, increased residential property assessments to values above market, lack of zoning enforcement, an influx of criminals, and a breakdown in infrastructure maintenance over the past three years as major reasons for people leaving in record numbers. (7/12/03) To be filed under Lockport Letter
Lockport native named to head religious order.
DeSales High School graduate (1961), David Whalen has been named Provincial Superior for the Oblates of St. Francis DeSales. He was ordained to the priesthood in June of 1971 at Lockport's St. Patrick's Church (where his father still attends Mass each morning). Father David holds an assortment of educational degrees including a doctorate in ministry and has been serving most recently in Toronto, Ontario at the University of St. Michael's College and the University of Toronto. He will move to the Oblate Provincial House in Toledo, Ohio at the end of 2003.Street battle in Crime District; assault during Main Street Cruise Night; teen OD's.
City Police were busy Monday evening, 7/7 when a street battle turned ugly in the City Crime District and, in an unrelated matter, a staff volunteer for Lockport's Monday Night Cruise was assaulted on the street. At about 7:15 multiple police cars sped to Washburn Street at Spalding Street in the heart of the city Crime District. A street brawl involved many and at least three of those involved were arrested and taken to the city police lock-up. A 42-year woman victim, smashed in the head, was taken by ambulance to Lockport Memorial Hospital. Reports from the scene say she was well tanked with alcohol. Down on Main Street details are sketchy but a staff volunteer for the Lockport Cruise Night was reported assaulted in the area of the parking ramp. Police were looking for a suspect. Over on Grant Street meanwhile, a 15 year old girl was complaining that she didn't have it all together. In addition to her "regular medication" she had apparently taken something of a more avant garde nature. She was taken by ambulance to the city hospital by Fire Department rescue crews where her condition reportedly was first dealt with by means of a stomach pump-out. (7/7/03) To be filed under Lockport LawCar-Cycle collision sends two to hospitals. A violent crash between a car and a motorcyle (with two riders) took place during the late 8 o'clock hour Monday night, 7/7. Ambulances took one male victim to ECMC/Buffalo and a 24-year old female was airlifted to ECMC/Buffalo via Mercy Flight. There was no immediate word from the scene, in front of 437 Walnut Street, as to the circumstances surrounding the crash. (7/7/03) To be filed under Lockport Emergency Response
Driver flees accident scene, caught on Church Street. The driver of one vehicle fled the scene of an auto crash Monday night, 7/7, in the late 9 o'clock hour at North Transit and Green Street. Quick police response resulted in his capture after a short chase along Church Street. Charges are pending. One person injured at the scene was treated by Lockport Fire Rescue crews at the scene and then taken to Lockport Memorial Hospital. (7/7/03)
Oh, My!
The City of Lockport Streets Department reportedly got a new palm reading time clock for all it's employees. They have to palm the time clock at the beginning of the day and out for the end of the day. It is a completely computerized time clock that reads only the palm of the employee. We're told some employees are up at arms about that but it should keep them honest on hours. (7/7/03) To be filed under Lockport Loose LipsTeen arrested on drug charges.
According to public papers, Lockport Police found 16-year old William C. Balkum Jr., of 288 Prospect Street in a parked car along the canal with marijuana. When Balkum was approached Thursday, 7/3, he and his passenger were said to have been trying to hid the weed under the front seat of the vehicle. There is no immediate word on why the passenger in the vehicle was not also arrested. (7/4/03)Man attacked, beaten, in Outwater Park.
A victim of a vicious beating was taken to Lockport Memorial Hospital Wednesday, 7/2, after being attacked in Outwater Park. The male victim required 21 stitches to close wounds according to police reports. Authorities have charged 38-year old David A. Fluellen of 32 Nichols Street, with third-degree assault. (7/3/03)Teen charged with multiple bike thefts. 16-year old Mark E. Bolden of 131 Gooding Street was reported arrested Wednesday, 7/2 and charged with stealing several bikes and then stripping them for parts. Authorities say they found five BMX bikes behind a house on Allen Street which they accuse Bolden of bringing there. (7/3/03)
No sewerage found in Oakhurst wastewater. The two pipes that appear to be draining from County property south of Oakhurst Street in Lockport have tested negative for sewerage in the latest lab analysis. The pipes empty into an open drainage ditch on Oakhurst that residents have complained about because of odor. (7/3/03)
Lombardi suggesting city office term realignment. Lockport City Republican Committee Chairman John Lombardi III is indicating that the city should consider another realignment of term length for elected officials. Lombardi is himself a candidate for Common Council this year. He suggests "Assess and review the Aldermen's length of office from the present 2 year positions to a newly created 3 year term, and review the possibility of staggering future elections for Council, thus removing the ability of dismissing all elected in one calendar year, and creating more needed continuity for the City of Lockport. One more possible option is to create all "at large" positions throughout the City of Lockport, thus allowing constituents the ability to work with and support the individual they desire, presenting a more citywide responsibility for actions thereof the Council." Mr. Lombardi also suggests a shorter term for Mayor rather than the present 4-year term. (7/2/03) To be filed under Lockport Political News
Schrader denies, Ottaviano confirms, Page report that South Block deal is dead. Lockport Common Council President Patrick Schrader Monday morning (7:15AM), 6/30, denied a report from the Lockport Page over the weekend that the Nuvo Group had backed out of a deal to pump millions into downtown Lockport's South Block redevelopment. But upon hard questioning on WLVL Radio, Schrader later admitted that Nuvo and the city had parted company. City Attorney, John Ottaviano, also contacted by the radio station, confirmed the Page report indicating he had opposed a 99-year lease based on the information he had. Alderwoman Phyllis Green told the Lockport Page Monday afternoon that she did not believe the cause for the deal's death was politics. (6/30/03) To be filed under Lockport Letter
Christian volunteers enter Lockport to help poor, clean up city. Almost 450 young Christian volunteers from all over the USA entered Lockport over the weekend of June 28-29. Their mission: Help Lockport poor and clean-up residential housing in the city. They've got a week of intense labor ahead of them. A combination of Lockport churches are contributing some of the cash necessary (thousands, and thousands of dollars) to provide the paint, wood, and other supplies the volunteers will use to improve local housing. The young "workcampers" will be staying in Lockport at no cost to them with accommodations at Lockport High School and church member homes. Their foods needs will be taken care of locally with donated treats and three meals a day. The project has been in the planning stage for almost two years. (6/29/03) To be filed under Lockport Lines
Insulted and stalled, developer backs away from City on South Block deal
. Nuvo Group is reported to have called it quits on attempting to develop Lockport's South Block after inaction by the city and finally an insulting lease agreement offer. The Lockport Page was told on Friday, 6/27, the Niagara Falls-based developer has suspended all plans to sink millions of dollars into Lockport Center City because of "small town politics" and delays blamed on the Sullivan Administration. The City Administration and Democratic Party leadership may be in conference on how to explain its inaction to city residents. The Lockport Page has been told that after an informal meeting that reached agreement on most main points, the City Attorney's office had to be pressed week after week to produce a lease agreement for the South Block property along Main Street. What had been discussed was a 99-year lease but, sources tell the Page, what was offered in writing was an insulting six-month lease agreement that looked like it was drawn up with little work. Without a lease agreement, Nuvo indicated they could not go ahead with financial arrangements. Top administration officials were "unavailable" Friday but when the Lockport Page was able to contact one elected official we were told "no comment" on our report but the official admitted that the news was not good. Initial plans had called for construction to begin late this summer or early fall. The Nuvo Group had reportedly been also interested in two other major pieces of downtown property besides the South Block but the "80 Main Street" property was key to the other potential developments. (6/28/03) To be filed under Lockport LetterGraduating "high class," LHS Class of '03 and families enjoy the weekend in Lewiston.
About 340 seniors at Lockport Senior High School went through graduation ceremonies at Art Park in Lewiston Saturday, 6/28, and indulged themselves in congratulations, hoopla, and...good-byes. In an attempt to add more prestige to the graduation event, the Lockport Board of Education authorized Big Money spending for graduation by having the ceremonies at Art Park instead of Lockport. Educators claim they "don't have room" for graduation in Lockport but the expensive move to Art Park, begun several years ago, is seen as an attempt by educators to add a "higher tone" to graduation. Some others see it as an affront to the city that paid for their education. (6/29/03) To be filed under Lockport School NewsRumor mill: Coles and Lowes for Lockport Town.
The two national chains are reported considering locations in the former Ames Store (Lockport Mall) and the former K-Mart (S. Transit near McDonald's). The retail development is being assisted by Lockport Town which also continues to encourage business in the city to move in and enjoy the benefits of lower taxes (but no local police protection, no full-time professional fire protection). Meanwhile no development news rumors out of the city where residents are still without a supermarket. After Jubilee (formerly Super Duper) closed in 2000, Mayor Thomas Sullivan declared he would announce a replacement by the end of 2001. The Duper store is still vacant in 2003 and, in addition, Eckerd's Drugs moved out of the adjoining store, now also vacant. (6/26/03) To be filed under Lockport Loose LipsSpencer caught with suspected coke. Lockport Police have arrested Bobby Spencer who they say was motoring along Chestnut Street with a suspended license. According to public papers he refused to immediately stop for the police vehicle while stuffing his mouth with a "substance." When finally apprehended police found a off-white rock substance in the driver's seat which field tested positive for cocaine. In addition to traffic charges, more serious charges could be pending against Mr. Spencer who calls 21 Adams Street his home. (6/23/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Former LHS hockey coach arrested on sex charges. News of the charges against 54-year old John C. Thurston of Rogers Avenue had been kept under wraps but finally broke out Thursday, 6/19 when the former high school hockey coach appeared in Niagara County Court. The community was shocked to hear Thurston accused of a variety of sex crimes with boys under 11 and 14 years of age that took place 12 to 18 months ago. After Thurston entered a plea of "guilty," Judge Sara Sperrazza set August 14th for sentencing and the case was over, as far as public view is concerned, even though the public is left asking for details the delay in prosecution and lack of public disclosure. (6/21/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
More charges of racism directed at Lockport Police. Steve Huston revived his nearly year-long record of attacks on Lockport government this week with charges of "police harassment" of minorities. He reportedly voiced a short dressing down of the city before the Lockport Common Council, and accused the police of "circling the black areas like overseers on a plantation." A possible sparkplug for the latest Huston accusations was the arrest of his 21-year old son, Marcus J. Huston, Tuesday evening, 6/10, on multiple charges including driving with a suspended registration and resisting arrest. Young Mr. Huston was arrested when police responded to a gathering near Genesee and Washburn Street in the heart of the city crime district where police say traffic was blocked. (6/21/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
3 Williamsville teens charged with Lockport vandalism. The three from the afluent Buffalo suburb were reported caught painting graffiti on a Lockport bridge this week and face multiple charges. The youth, all boys aged 16 and 17 did not immediately give any reason why they appear to have selected Lockport for vandalism rather than their own neighborhoods. (6/21/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Grand Street man charged with providing AK-47 used in police shootings. A federal grand jury has indicted a 22-year old Grand Street man, accusing him of buying an AK-47 and giving it to Jason Kanalley. Kanalley then used the weapon to go on a rampage back in February, including the shooting of two Lockport policemen. 22-year old Christopher C. Cheverie of 218 Grand Street was arrested this week. Authorities say Cheverie bought the gun for Kanalley who wasn't allowed to purchase or own a gun because of his past record. Cheverie has been jailed in lieu of $5000 bail. If convicted he could face up to ten years in prison. (6/19/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Employee charged with thousands in theft after video surveillance. A teenage employee of the Holy Cannoli cafe and bakery at Walnut and Pine Street was arrested Wednesday, 6/11, and charged with thousands of dollars of thefts from the establishment. Police claim a 17-year old girl, Vanessa A. Frank of 107 Works Place, had looted the establishment on a regular basis for several months removing cash as she desired from the register by ringing up "No Sale" and then just digging in for dollars. She is accused of grand larceny of about $14,000. She was reported caught by an examination of video surveillance tapes.. (6/12/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
City Judge censured, but not removed from bench. An effort begun by operatives of the Democratic Party over two years ago to have Lockport City Judge William Watson removed from his position after winning election (over Democrat Betsy Hurley) finally came up a bit short this week. The Democrats had accused Watson of declaring he would be tough on criminals when he ran for election in 1999. They claimed such honesty was inappropriate for a judicial candidate. They filed objections in state court to Watson's declarations and a lower court ordered him removed from the bench earlier this year after over two years of the matter moving through the legal system. But early this week a seven member Court of Appeals ruled that Watson could keep his seat giving him a mild censure for his forthright declarations of nearly three years ago. (6/11/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Woman charged with welfare fraud. According to public papers obtained by The Lockport Page, 37-year old Dawn M. McPhail of South Street in Lockport has been charged with welfare fraud. The matter comes in connection with the alleged misuse of food stamps and reported filing of a false declaration. (6/11/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Teens charged at booze party. Three Lockport teenagers were arrested over the weekend following what police describe as a disorderly party at 253 Transit Street. Neighbors had complained of vulgar comments being directed at them and police found over 40 cans of beer when they moved in. Among those charge is 18-year old William G. Voelker and 18-year old Aaron Weaver of the Transit Street address and 18-year old William C. Tice of 271 Locust Street. (6/11/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Man faces nine counts after crashing motorcycle. 21-year old Leslie A. Huntington of 11 Blackley Court faces charges including DWI, speeding, having no insurance or registration, and aggravated unlicensed operation after police caught up with him on Tuesday, 6/10. Huntington had reported crashed a motorcycle into a car along Evans Street in the wee morning hours. Following the crash he was released without bail pending a future court appearance. (6/11/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
NYSEG Lockport office still open to the public. It appears that a plan the gas and electric utility had to cut costs by eliminating major customer service centers, such as the one at Lockport, has been halted. The move apparently failed to get the immediate government approvals the company had anticipated. The company announced such plans early this year, released a few employees and transferred many others. Tuesday, 6/10, a company representative at Lockport told the Lockport Page that "everything is back to where it was." The public office on Lincoln Avenue had never actually closed, as the company had announced. The truck service center there had not been scheduled to close. (6/11/03) To be filed under Lockport Loose Lips
10-year old victim of Monday hit-and-run. A ten-year boy riding on a motorcycle as a passenger was rushed to Children's Hospital in Buffalo Monday night, 6/9, after the cycle he was on was hit at the corner of Robinson Road and Transit about 9PM. Authorities say the driver of the car fled the scene and there is an APB out for a suspect vehicle which could be a Ford Taurus, or a Mercury Marquis in some sort of gold color and with front-end damage. The boy was later identified as Timothy Payne Jr. of East Amherst. (6/10/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Sex attack at North Park School. A shocking story of a sex attack at North Park Middle School came out in public papers and in Lockport City Court this past week. The incident apparently took place on April 11th when a 16-year old boy attacked a 14-year old girl. According to public papers, 16-year old Daniel W. Martin of 320 Green Street entered a "guilty" plea in Lockport City Court to a reduced charge of "forcible touching." According to public papers, the 14-year old girl had her blouse pulled off to expose her bra-covered breasts and then had her buttocks slapped. At least a portion of the attack reportedly took place in the school cafeteria. (6/9/03) To be filed under Lockport School News
Five disqualified at school championship meet for misconduct.
The Lockport Home Page hasn't been able to track all the details, but five members of the the LHS track and field team were reportedly told they were "out," ---disqualified--- from the championship competition late last week at Union-Endicott High School on the southern tier. The five were sent home from the state meet for "breaking curfew" according to sketchy reports provided the Lockport Page. Lockport School Superintendent Bruce Friseur indicated he was "disappointed" in the five boys. Further details relating to the activities of the five were not made available. (6/8/03) To be filed under Lockport School NewsDEC investigating pollution on Oakhurst Street
. An odorous pollution along Oakhurst Street in Lockport is now reported under investigation by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. State authorities reportedly were called in after Lockport City Police responded to a neighborhood complaint this week. For almost two years complaints to Lockport City officials reportedly have failed to get results. Lockport Police reportedly called in the State DEC. A DEC environmental engineer is said to have taken samples at the site on Thursday, 6/5 but there were no immediate steps to cap two, approximate 12-inch diameter, pipes that exist there and are discharging a liquid and solid mix into an open Oakhurst Street drainage ditch. Those pipes appear to be coming from property operated by the Niagara County Highway Department on South Niagara Street. Statements by insiders to the Lockport Home Page indicate that among the liquids being discharged from the pipes is raw sewerage and a water/oil mix. The Page has been told that the liquid discharge was tested about a year ago and was found to contain human feces. At that time city officials, including Mayor Tom Sullivan, were said to have been informed and warned about the situation but either a cover-up was directed or the city just failed to act.Jane Johnson dies in Buffalo, replacement pondered for her seat on Board of Ed. Lockport Board of Education member, Jane Johnson, died Thursday, 6/5, in Buffalo General Hospital where she had reportedly been a patient for the past several weeks. Johnson, age 70, was a retired teacher in the Lockport Public School system who had usually voted with the majority, supporting spending programs in school budget battles. Her replacement on the Board would most likely be just- defeated candidate, Mike D'Addeo, who lost to well-known local media personality, Clip Smith. D'Addeo garnered more than a thousand votes but his campaign had little publicity. However, since D'Addeo had campaigned for programs to cut taxes by up to 25%, such a position would likely cast him as "unsuitable" by several members of the Board's majority. Johnson's replacement could be named as soon as the next Board meeting by a majority vote of the Board or, the Board could wait until Clip Smith joins it, or the Board could decline to act on the Johnson vacancy or, vote to install yet another person besides D'Addeo who they perceive to be more willing to favor a continuation of Board polices of yearly spending and tax increases. (6/6/03) To be filed under Lockport School News
Voters approve boost in taxes, spending, and debt. Lockport educators won a strong victory Tuesday, 6/3, with voters in the annual Lockport School District election. A school budget that provided for another tax boost was approved 1499-1250, a new multi-million dollar debt package was approved 1371-1218. Warren "Clip" Smith won a seat on the school district board of education with 1651 votes over 1019 for Michael D'Addeo, an opponent who failed to communicate with the public. (6/4/03)
Vandalism at Outwater soars as basketball begins.
The new basketball court is in and getting used at Outwater Park and the city appears clueless as to how and why thousands of dollars of damage is taking place to the restrooms just across Outwater Drive from the new court. Mayor Tom Sullivan is threatening to shut down the hours the restrooms are open after at least five separate serious damage days/nights at the Outwater Park restrooms. $100 porcelain sinks are a favorite target of those responsible who smash sinks into chunks of porcelain. Sullivan has rejected proposals for video surveillance of Outwater Park and especially the restrooms. City officials appear as if they don't know what to do and many appear to be in denial as to any link between the basketball court and the upsurge in vandalism. City of Lockport Public Works Commissioner Gary M. Andes responded to questions by the Buffalo News with a classic understatement, "We strongly suspect we have a problem." When the city was considering building the basketball court and tearing out play equipment and a wading pond for small children, there were several community suggestions that the basketball court could draw "the wrong element" into the Outwater family park. (6/1/03) To be filed under Lockport LawAlderwoman does end-run around mayor after another spat. Mayor Tom Sullivan is not known as a diplomat. Certainly we here at the Lockport Home Page know that all too well. But the story on the street this weekend is that Alderwoman Phyllis Green knows how to handle him. Mrs. Green, well known for her extended Florida vacations, had reportedly sought to go to the Utica area this summer for a "historical" conference. Mayor Sullivan reportedly said "No" to the money it would cost city taxpayers but Green was heard telling the ladies Sunday, 6/1, that she doesn't like to be ordered around like that. She reportedly called up aldermen and got approval for the trip money without the mayor's approval. (6/1/03) To be filed under Lockport Loose Lips
Knight seeks re-election. David H. Knight has announced his candidacy for a second term as Lockport Town Councilman. For the past three and a half years, he has worked tirelessly to address the quality of life issues for Town residents, which motivated serving his first term on the Board. "Promoting green space preservation, improving the appearance and safety of our Transit Road corridor, and supporting the successful creation of two recreational Town parks have been worthwhile efforts," he said. Mr. Knight has been involved in spearheading code enforcement for both zoning ordinances and property maintenance. Councilman Knight assumed a leadership role in reducing the Town's health insurance costs, by approximately $100,000. Again seeking voter support in this year's election, Mr. Knight stated, "My continued commitment is to improve quality of life in our Town. My efforts to help maintain our no tax policy have not wavered." A lifelong Republican, Dave Knight has claimed to have been a strong advocate of so-called "smart growth" and is an active member of the Town's Zoning Revision Committee. A known community advocate , Knight has most recently been selected to serve as 1st Vice Commander of the B. Leo Dolan Post #410 of the American Legion. A charter member of Washington, D.C.'s World War II Memorial Foundation, history enthusiast, and an avid sports fan, Mr. Knight holds both a bachelor's and master's degree from Buffalo State College. He served in the United States Army, as well as in the local unit of the New York Army National Guard. Married to Lockport School Board Trustee, Renee Knight, Mr. Knight is the father of five and grandparent of six. He has been endorsed by the Town Republican Committee. (5/31/03) Lockport Town Political News
City pays $50K for advice on canal revitalization. The Sullivan administration has reportedly let out a $50,000 award to the Wendel Duchscherer Architects & Engineers firm to tell it how to proceed in cleaning up areas around the State Erie Barge Canal to make the areas for attractive. That firm, in turn, will be asking the public how it should proceed. The public input will be received during a public meeting, June 5, 5-8PM, at the Lockport Public Library. (5/27/03) To be filed under Lockport Lines
City turns off the funding for repairs to fountain on Main Street. The expensive water fountain at Urban Park along Main Street in Lockport will not be repaired anytime soon. The decorative touch was allowed to fall into decay and disrepair by several city administrations who refused to fund work to fix it. That stance continued even when $3000 was donated to the city for that purpose by the Grigg-Lewis Foundation. Vandalism and errors in design and construction all contributed to the fountains leaks. Now, the city has reallocated the $3000 gift money plus $2829 for other funds it had on hand for fountain repairs and given it to "Light Up Lockport" to pay for downtown holiday decorations. That group reportedly now has $11,500 for new decorations. (5/26/03) To be filed under Lockport Lines
Delphi-Harrison president predicts continued cuts in Lockport employment. Ron Pirtle spoke before an exclusive audience Friday, 5/23 at the Lockport Town and Country Club. The top-shelf luncheon meeting (with a hefty price tag) was apparently set up to screen out general community participation and media coverage but among those allowed in was a reporter for The Greater Niagara Newspapers group, a business with close ties to the sponsoring Niagara USA Chamber of Commerce. Pirtle reported that current employment at Harrison in Lockport is about 4500, down from about 6,000 in 1999. Pirtle forecast that employment would continue to decline. The Lockport Union-Sun & Journal quoted him as saying in respect to the Lockport future employment situation, "I would expect it to be smaller but to still be a very substantial base of employment." (5/24/03) To be filed under Delphi-Harrison News
Another sales head installed at US&J. The turnover continues at the Lockport Union-Sun & Journal with a new man being brought in to attempt to boost newspaper ad sales. He's Jack Foley who had previously worked for ad papers in the Buffalo area. With Foley's arrival it was revealed that another long time Lockport employee for the newspapers, Diane Healy has been let go. She reportedly supervised sales and marketing. There was no public announcement by the newspaper of her departure. (5/24/03) To be filed under Media Monitor
Husband and wife charged in connection with alleged rape of young teen. The girl was reportedly under the age of 17 when she was photographed having sexual relations with 43-year old Darwin Fifield Sr. of 198 South Street. Mr. Fifield has been charged with rape and pleaded innocent early this month in County Court. His reported wife, 20-year old Jessica Fifield, whose address, according to public papers, is given as 597 Walnut Street, has now been charged with "helping" her husband in the reputed sexual episode(s). She faces multiple charges but speculation is that she may be considering making a deal with authorities that would include testimony against Mr. Fifield. The sexual charges are reported based on incidents taking place in August through November of 2002 and rely heavily, perhaps too heavily, on the claims of the young girl who did not report the matter at the time. If authorities are able to get testimony from Jessica Fifield favorable to their case it would greatly help the prosecutors in court. (5/24/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Lockport schools want to borrow $1.4-million for more spending. School officials promised at a public hearing this week that they want to spend $4.8-million in capital money to make repairs and renovations to 11 district buildings. They claim local district property owners will only have to pay $1.4-million of that amount because of "state aid" and the school district can go out and borrow its share of the costs if voters approve a special proposition on the ballot for June 3rd. Voting on that date will also be for approval of a record $61.5-million school budget. Should voter approval be denied, officials claim they will force a "contingency budget" on the taxpayers that will include almost all the spending that the voters are being asked to OK. Taxes will go up for property owners an estimated 3.3% but other district residents will pay nothing. (5/22/03) To be filed under Lockport School News
City skate park idea criticized. The owner of Lockport's Kingpin Skatepark off Market Street in Lowertown says a proposal for tax money to fund a city-operated rink would drive him out of business. The proposal is being promoted by Lockport Alderman Scott Cercone who hasn't provided answers yet on how much his "outdoor" park would cost the city in terms of operating expense, construction, and insurance. (5/21/03) To be filed under Lockport Loose Lips
Kids torch apartment house.
Still unidentified children are the suspects in a $100,000 fire Saturday, 5/17, that displaced 15 residents at 6144 Rhulman Road in Lockport Town. The blaze, which broke out just down the road from the South Lockport Fire Department, is believed to have been set by juveniles in a bedroom of one of the apartments just before 2:30PM. No arrests have been made. (5/18/03) To be filed under Lockport LawEagles selling their home and hall for $350K.
Aerie 825 has had hard times and, with membership down and active membership way down, the fraternal group has reportedly nearly completed the negotiations for selling their 14,000 square foot hall with 2.1 acre lot off Lincoln Avenue. The pending buyer is identified as Rej Development of Lancaster-Depew. The group had been asking $450K for the property when first offered a year ago. The status of the Eagles in Lockport, after the sale, is still uncertain. (5/18/03) To be filed under Lockport Loose LipsCounselor charged with sex abuse. A 21-year old Lockport woman was arrested this week, charged with "sexually abusing" a 14-year old boy at Wyndham Lawn Home for Children. The woman, a Webb Street resident, entered an "innocent" plea in an arraignment in Lockport Town Court. Authorities did not reveal to the Lockport Home Page if they had any evidence other than the claims of the child. Meanwhile sex abuse accusations against a non-uniformed employee of the Niagara County Sheriff's Department remain under wraps. In that case an inmate at the Niagara County Jail is the reported victim but media are still awaiting disclosure information. (5/17/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Delivery person shot on Northview Drive. Niagara County Sheriff's Deputies were called to Northview Drive after a person delivering sub sandwiches was shot by a paintball terrorist Wednesday, 5/14. No arrests were made. (5/16/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Lockport ( Market Street) "Wall Of Fame." A combination of child volunteers from two community groups, donations from area business, and tax dollars have made it possible for a small group of area girls to paint a 200-foot cement wall along Market Street. Those involved include girls from the YMCA "Teen Leaders" and a anti-smoking group funded by state taxpayers called "Reality Check." Taxpayer money for "Reality Check" operations are funneled to the group through the State Health Department. (5/16/03)
Woman let go after admitting knife attack on man. 26-year old Amy L. Moorman of 364 Hawley Street was given a "conditional discharge" in Lockport City Court this week after she admitted to a knife attack on a Bewley Parkway man. The man was walking along Chestnut Street when he reportedly was attacked by a woman who attempted to stab him in the stomach but then was fought off. The victim was stabbed in the hand,however, requiring 30 stitches. City Judge Watson conditioned the discharge on the woman not getting into trouble with the law for the next year. (5/15/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Home Health Care worker charged with stealing from patient's home. Lockport Police Tuesday, 5/13, charged Susan M. Wilson of 126 West Ave, Lockport with Grand Larceny 3rd, a Class D Felony in connection with jewelry thefts from a city home where she was hired as a home health care aid. Mrs. Wilson is accused of stealing in excess of $17,000 of jewelry between April 17, 2003 and May 5, 2003 in a shocking alleged violation of trust. Detective Lieutenant Rick Podgers recovered several pieces of jewelry from the defendant and M & M Gold and Jewelry Buyers in Williamsville. The defendant was arraigned before the Honorable Judge William Watson Tuesday morning and is being held in the Niagara County Jail. Bail has been set at $1,000.00. Mrs. Wilson’s next court appearance is scheduled for May 14. Mrs. Wilson entered a plea of innocent at Tuesday's hearing and complained to the press that she needed money to "pay bills." (5/13/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Lockport hospital by-pass. Buffalo media are crowing about a Burt woman who gave birth Tuesday in the front seat of a minivan that her husband was driving along the Lockport Expressway into Buffalo. Seems the couple didn't want to have the baby at Lockport Memorial and headed to Kenmore Mercy, instead. They didn't quite make it in time. The new baby girl was delivered by Daddy in the minivan about 2:15AM. (5/14/02)
School Board hires police to keep Kern in his place. The Lockport School District Board of Education has authorized payment of tax dollars to hire off-duty police to guard Board members at public meetings. The Board has come under increasing fire in recent years as taxes in the district have skyrocketed for a declining enrollment yet only one member of the community regularly complains at school Board meetings. But that man, elderly and disabled, comes to meetings armed with facts and a memory that is increasingly uncomfortable for those he confronts. Twice, the Lockport Page has been told, the Board had police called to deal with Jacob Kern. The Board denies that its most recent action is directed at Mr. Kern alone saying it is to guarantee a "safe" environment for Board members. Kern, who navigates on crutches, has been described as "out of control" by one Board official who justified calling city police to have him ejected after a recent Kern verbal attack on the spending policies of the Board of Education. It will be costing taxpayers now $25/hour to have police guard the School Board members at meetings and be available to eject and/or arrest those who may object too loudly to Board actions. (5/14/03) To be filed under Lockport School News
Billiards "star" sentenced for Lockport armed robbery. A 32-year old Cheektowaga man, who apparently enjoyed a reputation as being a star pool player, blew into Lockport last Spring for some "action." Authorities say Dennis G. Hatch wound up being involved in an armed robbery at Sir Billiards at 20 Lock Street with two other men, also from out of town. Monday, 5/12, Hatch was sentenced to a year in federal prison where he is already serving time for violation of probation in connection with a previous cocaine conviction. (5/13/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
About $25K raised in canal cancer walk. The 7th annual event, along the Erie Barge Canal at Lockport, had about 400 people participate. The money came from hundreds of others who donated money to fund activities associated with helping victims of women's breast cancer in the Lockport area. (5/11/03) To be filed under Congratulatory Cheers
Student with pot arrested at high school. Police report that 16-year old Christopher L. LaBoy of East Avenue was arrested Thursday, 5/8 at Lockport High School for possession of marijuana. Authorities say that LaBoy had a small amount of the weed on him at the time of his arrest. In an unrelated arrest at the high school, also Thursday, 17-year old Robert E. Spencer was charged with "harassment" after an alleged attack on another student. (5/9/03) To be filed under Lockport School News
Heard on the street. A 74-year old Lockport woman tells a tale of taxation terror in a letter of application for a part time job at a local hot dog stand. The woman pleads for the job saying that local politicians have gradually raised taxes to the point she can no long get by and keep her home. She says she needs a job at least two days a week to make the minimum necessary to buy food and pay her taxes for 2003. (5/9/03) To be filed under Lockport Loose Lips
Council cuts both DARE and Crossing Guard program but mayor vetoes. The Lockport Common Council voted 4-2 to cut both the drug education program for 5th graders run by city police in the schools and the crossing guard positions around the city, widely viewed as a low-pay but popular patronage job hand-out to those supportive of the city's political leadership. Mayor Tom Sullivan, believed to have been reacting to both political advice and pressure in addition to public sobbing declared he was exercising his veto power over the crossing guard cuts. And, with Democrat council member David Blackley ready to change his vote to favoring the $100K+ program, it makes it unlikely that the council will be able to override Sullivan's veto. Alderwoman Phyllis Green that if the council doesn't cut some programs, city residents will be faced with a 13% property tax hike. Latest word is that the city faces a $1.3-million deficit this year. (5/8/03) To be filed under Lockport Letter
Protests begin after proposal to cut DARE and Crossing Guard programs. Alderwoman Phyllis Green is proposing that the long-time programs be eliminated effective in September. That's because the two programs have grown to cost Lockport City taxpayers about $200,000 and none of the money to operate the two programs for children come from the schools, the towns outside of Lockport, or the children's parents. The go-it-alone approach for Lockport city taxpayers has gotten to be too much without help from the users or beneficiaries of the programs but those beneficiaries have organized protests and pressures being placed on Lockport councilmen. Their solution: just raise the taxes again to preserve these child services. (5/5/03) To be filed under Lockport Lines
Walker convicted after jury trial. Deborah Walker was convicted Friday, 5/2 by a jury after about a day and a half trial in Lockport City Court. A "guilty" verdict came down about 4PM after more than four hours of jury deliberations convicting her of of Resisting Arrest and Filing A False Report in connection with an incident at her house on May 21, 2002. A charge of obstructing governmental administration was dismissed. Police at the time were in hot pursuit of Leon Johnson, then 18, reported to be Ms. Walker's son. Johnson had been sought on charges relating to beating his "girlfriend" and mother of his child. Police say Ms. Walker was uncooperative in not allowing them to immediately capture Johnson while she claimed she never knew that Johnson was hiding out in her house. Police finally put the collar on Johnson as he jumped out of a window of the house and attempted to flee. The case has been a bit of a cause celebre for the Lockport Union-Sun & Journal over the past year which gave Walker extensive publicity. According to material the paper printed and promoted, Walker made racial accusations against Lockport Police and those claims were used when the newspaper went on the attack against local police and city government claiming various sorts of racial discrimination. However, over a period of almost a year now, none of those claims by the newspaper or various racial activists groups and individuals have been substantiated. The main author for most of the newspaper stories that railed with various claims against the police and Lockport is no longer employed by the newspaper. Friday's conviction of Walker is the latest chapter with Walker's sentencing set for June 11th. (5/2/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Our Editorial Of Last July, Reviews & Comments On The Walker Case & And Others
D'Addeo and Smith seek Board of Education. According to petitions turned in this week at the Lockport School District Board of Education, Michael D'Addeo and Warren "Clip" Smith will be candidates for one open seat on the school board. The exact date of the election is still tentative. It could be in late May or early June depending on budget developments out of the State capital in Albany. (4/29/03) To be filed under Lockport School News
US&J describes local reaction to SARS case as "panic." The Page 1 main headline in the Saturday, 4/26, Lockport Union-Sun & Journal screams, "Officials Trying To Stem SARS Panic." The paper then reprints details from a Niagara Gazette reporter which pretty much repeats what was reported here and elsewhere on Friday regarding the local SARS case. There is still no revelation by Niagara County officials as to which Niagara County hospital the 33-year old truck driver has been confined to and where his SARS infection has been treated since Tuesday. The Lockport Home Page hasn't been able to find any sign of panic on the streets of Lockport or even Niagara County. However, we are not privy to reactions inside the administrative offices of the Niagara County Health Department or the hospital where the SARS victim is. North in Toronto, officials are putting enormous pressure on World Health Organization (WHO) officials who warned world travelers this week not to travel to the Canadian metropolis because it is the "epicenter" of the North American SARS outbreak. Tourist business has gone into depression in Canada for the past couple of weeks. The death rate for SARS could be significantly higher than previously thought, according to a British expert's study into the pneumonia-like virus. The research by Professor Roy Anderson, due to be published in a medical journal next week, is expected to say the virus could kill between 8% and 15% - or one in seven - of those infected. (4/26/03) To be filed under Lockport Lines
Almost $1-Million proposed for Hamilton House renovations. Officials revealed Friday, 4/25 that they have a pledge from the Lockport Grigg-Lewis Foundation for $420,000 to help convert the 1842 city landmark at 24 Church Street into a state-of-the-art Canal Museum and Tourist Center. Congressman Tom Reynolds (R-Clarence) says he is seeking $500,000 in federal funds for the Hamilton House Erie Canal Interpretive Museum. Planners say the building, which is owned by First Presbyterian Church, would be leased to the city and then re-leased to the Niagara County Historical Society which would operate the museum. According to Niagara County Historian Dave Dickinson, renovations could get underway as early as this summer with lead work organized by the Presbyterian Church while the additional federal money is awaited. Dickinson indicated that the city's treasured 20 by 13-foot mural showing the opening of the Erie Canal would be relocated from Lockport High School and restored, then placed in a proper stage at the Hamilton House. The mural masterpiece is by famous Lockport artist, Raphael Beck. The proposed museum design is under the charge of Boston Productions and will include multimedia, state-of-the-art displays and interactive computers. Dickinson is quoted as saying, "This is not going to be your typical old museum with glass cases. This will knock people's socks off!" (4/26/03) To be filed under Lockport Tourism News
Despite State aid cuts, Lockport schools boost spending, taxes, in new budget. The Lockport School District Board of Education adopted, by a 5-3 vote Thursday, 4/24, a record $61.5-million spending plan that will cause a yet unspecified increase in school property taxes. Depending on the exact amount of State aid that is cut, that local tax increase could be huge. Board member Renee Knight declared, "We have a community in crisis. If we drive any more people out of Lockport, we won't have anybody to pay taxes." Taxes and weather have been named as the top two reasons for people leaving Lockport. Knight was joined in her opposition to the budget by board members Beverly McDonough and John Linderman. At the meeting it was revealed that the district is again spending more money for fewer students. School population has declined to the point that consideration of closing yet another school is underway. Although the Board approved the budget it must go before district voters for approval in May. Rejection of the budget, however, could mean the imposition of a so-called "contingency budget" which is little changed from the one voted on. (7/25/03) To be filed under Lockport School News
More unsettled conditions at Lockport newspaper.
The Lockport Union-Sun & Journal, now owned and controlled
out of Alabama (via Niagara Falls) is witnessing another terrible turnover of personnel
from the publisher right down to the reporters. As previously reported, Publisher Steve
Braver, brought in from Nevada about four years ago, was Niagara Frontier
newspaper history on Tuesday 4/22. William Scott Leffler, one of
the few employees who actually live in Lockport has transferred to the North Tonawanda
paper of the Greater Niagara chain as of this week. He continues hosting
his unusual (left-leaning) public opinion show on WLVL and writing a column that will
still be carried in the US&J. Leffler has been under
community fire for reportedly calling the President of the United States an
"idiot" and other outrageous labels. That became a bit much for
conservative and patriotic Lockport to take while the country was at war in Iraq. Joseph
Kissel, another Syracuse University journalism graduate who was funneled into
Lockport, complained of being on a "treadmill" at the US&J and has
now moved on to work in music (writing and performing). He has had a few
interesting gigs at the downtown Fog City coffee shop. Among the
replacements brought in from out-of-town are Jennifer Nowicki
and Angelica Morrison. Nowicki is off to a strong start and seems
to have excellent interview skills. Morrison is the paper's first African-American
employee. Another former US&J reporter who seemed to play into the
plans of some higher-ups to smear Joe Kibler, Lockport Police, and Lockport people is now
doing "free lance" work and occassionally his byline is seen on a web
publication with results Scott Leffler calls, "Left of Leffler."
(4/23/03) To
be filed under Media Monitor
It's just not newspapers. Among the things noticed during an intense week of monitoring WLVL prior to publishing an updated media review, we heard the following recorded promotional announcement: "Join J. R. Reid weekdays 6-9 for early morning news." Reid has been gone now for about four months. The morning news man at the station is (and has been) John Raymond (Long). Reid is now living in Florida. Reid was replaced by WLVL radio veteran Paul Oates. (4/23/03)
Credit Union announces name change. Unit #1 Federal Credit Union announced Tuesday, 4/22 that it is changing its name to Cornerstone Community Federal Credit Union. The name change has been approved by the National Credit Union Administration. The credit union, which began in Lockport but is taking advantage of incentives to move its headquarters out of the city, says it will now accept as customers anyone living, working, or functioning in any part of Niagara County. The credit union's new headquarters building is nearly completion off South Transit Road, in the town. Its other offices are on Stevens Street in the city of Lockport and on State Street in Middleport. (4/23/03) To be filed under Lockport Lines
Lockport Delphi-Harrison back in profit mode. There was significant improvement in the financial results at Lockport's Delphi-Harrison in the first quarter of 2003. Although the local unit does not break out results from the parent Delphi Corporation, a local publicity spokesperson said that Lockport operations turned profitable for the first time since the second quarter of 2002. "Increased revenue and continued cost reductions" were cited as the reasons but the company said performance at Lockport is still short of goals. Parent Delphi reported first-quarter revenues of about $7.2-billion, up 7.4% from a year ago and resulting in profits of 23-cents per share. Meanwhile, local manager, Ron Pirtle, who does not live in Lockport, is venturing out into a rare community appearance. Pirtle will speak at a $30/head luncheon that only members of the Niagara Falls based Niagara USA Chamber will be allowed to attend. The restricted appearance is scheduled for May 23rd protected by the confines of the Lockport Town and Country Club. (4/22/03) To be filed under Delphi-Harrison News
No cases, but some concern, over SARS spreading to Lockport. The outbreak of the China-based Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) respiratory disease in the Toronto area (132 probable cases as of 4/22) is not discouraging many Lockportians from going north to travel "on the cheap" out of Toronto airport. There, air fares are generally much less to even US destinations than out of Buffalo. Toronto has been called one of the world "hot zones" for SARS by World Health Organization. One Lockportian, on his way to a golf vacation in the southern US this week said he "will not" wear a mask while awaiting departure from the Toronto airport. No cases of SARS have yet been confirmed on the Niagara Frontier but cross border traffic with Canada is expected to make such spread highly likely in the near future. (4/21/03) To be filed under Lockport Lines
Roofers worried over increased insurance rates. Lockport's legit roofers, especially one and two-man operations fear that new insurance policies may put them out of business. They tell the Lockport Page that several companies are not renewing liability policies in this area and in New York State because of huge payoffs being made on questionable claims. One small contractor noted his insurance premium had hit $20,000 for renewal and he wouldn't be able to make it. The alternative is to go to work uninsured, like many do here, leaving liability to claims for injuries or shoddy work to the homeowners peril. For the larger companies the new insurance rates appear to almost certainly cause increase charges to customers and less competition which could trigger yet another round of increases. (4/20/03) To be filed under Lockport Loose Lips
Towpath Trolley to drastically cut 2003 operations. The Lockport tourism bus won't begin until July 1st this year according to Lockport Business Association executive, Jerry DeFlippo. The bus will only make two runs daily, at 12:30PM and 3PM. With the Dale Association backing out of tourism support this year, the trolley will headquarter at the business of Lockport Locks & Canal Tours at 210 Market Street. An out-of-town bus operator will reportedly be engaged to run the bus. The vehicle will be the same as in past years. (4/14/03) To be filed under Lockport Loose Lips
Lerch & Daly --- "It's a shame." The President of the Lockport Business Association publicly bemoaned the status of long-time Lockport clothing store, Lerch & Daly Monday. The clothing store on Main Street has now reportedly laid off all its employees and owner Charlie Grey is operating the store by himself. Jerry DeFlippo described the situation as "a shame." There is no word if the store will move, stay put, or go out of business. (4/14/03) To be filed under Lockport Loose Lips
One opening for Lockport School Board election. Those willing to serve on the Lockport School District Board of Education have until April 30th to get petitions in to the Board offices with at least 100 valid resident/voter signatures. An election will be held in May for a single 4-year term seat. Petition forms are available at the Board offices at 130 Beattie Avenue. Incumbent Mark Shaw is not seeking re-election. (4/13/03) To be filed under Lockport School News
Lockport High graduation rate at 90%. A state report indicates that 9 out of 10 students who enter Lockport High School in the ninth grade will graduate (in four years or less) from the 12th grade in Lockport. The 90% graduation rate is the highest reported for any public school in Niagara County which has a graduation rate of 80% on average with Niagara Falls' new "state-of- the-art" high school only showing a 58% graduation rate and the county's lowest. The public school with the highest graduation rate in the Erie-Niagara County area is Williamsville North (98%) and the school with the lowest performance is Buffalo Alternative School with 0%. Next lowest is Kensington High with 44% graduating. Kensington is being threatened with closure or state take-over because of poor performance. (4/13/03) To be filed under Lockport School News
Niagara Chamber Executive says they're still in Lockport. The remains of the former "Lockport," former "Eastern-Niagara," Chamber of Commerce are still functioning in Lockport according to a public letter from Paul Kolkmeyer. Kolkmeyer is VP for First Niagara Bank, the former Lockport Savings Bank which changed its name to reference Niagara Falls instead of Lockport when it moved its headquarters (and jobs) out of Lockport. Kolkmeyer says the "Niagara USA Chamber" now headquartered in Niagara Falls, still has a branch office in Lockport. He says the Niagara Chamber has a "new focus." It is "advocating for business and breaking down obstacles to economic development." Kolkmeyer says the Niagara Falls based organization is a "new, improved model" over the one that was headquartered in Lockport for over a half century. (4/12/03)
DA won't prosecute Granchelli. Despite a recommendation by State Supreme Court Justice Richard Kloch, Niagara County District Attorney Matthew J. Murphy III says he will not file criminal charges against Lockport developer, Elmer Granchelli. Justice Kloch had suggested such charges be pursued after finding against Granchelli in a civil action with the City of Lockport last month. Murphy, however, said the allegations dealt with matters that were from too long ago and said he's putting the matter to rest. (4/11/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Former STOP-DWI coordinator acquitted. The prosecution failed to produce consistent reliable evidence to back up charges that Paul E. Griffin attacked an Appleton man at the Delphi-Harrison plant on July 31, 2001. Lockport City Judge William Watson cited different versions on the same incident as his reason for dismissing charges against Griffin who had worked for a short period at Niagara County STOP-DWI Coordinator, a political appointment by the County Democratic Party leadership. (4/7/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Woman has hubby arrested for cashing her tax refund check. Tracey L. Foster has reportedly had her husband arrested and charged with first-degree forgery. 34-year old Judd S. Foster of Chapel Street was reported arrested by Lockport Police on request of his wife who claims that her hubby cashed her income tax refund check by forging her name on it . He is charged with taking the money from the credit union and not giving any of it to wife Tracey. Foster now faces serious felony charges that could put him in state prison. (4/5/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Denny's Restaurant hold up man still at large. Niagara County Sheriff's Deputies have so far been unable to apprehend the man who walked into the 24-hour eatery off South Transit Road and shoved a knife at a terrified waitress demanding the money from the cash register. Sources say he got over $300 before leaving a little after 3AM Friday, 4/4, and driving away.
Naked man "growls" at police before going into the attack mode. Lockport Police say they were attacked by a naked man who growled at them, grinding his teeth, before he allegedly attacked police in a Locust Street apartment. One officer was reported bitten on the arm. According to public papers, police had been called Friday, 3/28, to 309 Locust Street on a noise complaint but upon entering one of the apartments at the address, found a man naked who had reportedly been feeding on hallucinogenic mushrooms. Police have declined to identify, in public papers, the man who they soon after took to Lockport Memorial Hospital for treatment. However, authorities reportedly obtained a search warrant and, according to information in public papers, returned to 309 Locust Street and found significant quantities of marijuana plants in addition to hallucinogenic mushrooms. A gun was also seized. Two residents of an apartment there, 24-year old William E. Bucci Jr. and 22-year old Rachel F. Simpson were charged with second degree criminal possession of marijuana and growing marijuana without a permit. (3/29/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Badly beaten man found on ground in Crime District. Authorities discovered a 33-year old man lying on the ground off Washburn Street early Saturday, 3/29. The victim had reported been beaten by two men with baseball bats. He was taken to Lockport Memorial Hospital by city ambulance. Police are working clues in the case attempting to locate those responsible. (3/29/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Lockport paper plant suddenly closed, 60 lose jobs. Buffalo
Paperboard's Ohio Street plant closed Wednesday, 3/26, sending 60 employees home
without jobs. The company manufactured gypsum facing paper using, in part,
facilities of the former Upson Company. Buffalo Paperboard is a part of Caraustar
Industries which owns many other paper-making facilities. Acquired in 1992, the
Lockport mill produced a full line of medium to heavy weight gypsum facing paper products
with an annual capacity of 72 thousand tons. Operations at this mill have been reduced due
to a growing demand by
the gypsum wallboard industry for lighter weight facing paper. Customers will be served by
other Caraustar facilities that will take up the orders filled by the Lockport
plant. Information analyzed at the Lockport Home Page indicates that the
heavy grade of paper manufactured in Lockport, local wage and tax costs, and the problems
associated with getting water from the canal for some plant operations, all contributed to
the decision to close the Lockport plant and transfer production to other, out-of-state
facilities. (3/28/03) To be filed under Lockport Industrial
Index
Vandals inflict $5K in damage on Lockport KFC. A multitude of eggs were thrown at the Kentucky Fried Chicken outlet off West Avenue early Thursday, 3/27 and the drive up speaker-phone and menu sign were damaged. Police say the substantial overnight destruction was discovered only when the eatery opened up on Thursday morning. (3/28/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Judge suggests Granchelli may have tried to swindle City of Lockport. That allegation against Elmer Granchelli, Lockport developer, came out in a decision handed down this week in State Supreme Court. The ruling in a case involving the city, was against Granchelli, who has owned and/or controlled Lockport's vacant "South Block" for nearly thirty years before losing control last year in a court decision. Granchelli never built on the prime Main Street commercial land and the City of Lockport tried for years to recover it from him. This week's court ruling indicated Granchelli's $300,000 mortgage placed on the property in 1979 violated his development agreement with the city. The property now has the interest of Niagara Falls developer, Nuvo Group which says it wants to start construction by fall of this year. However, various interests in the city are attempting to stop that development and claim another (unnamed) developer, more to their satisfaction, is awaiting in the wings. The charge the Supreme Court Judge leveled against Mr. Granchelli could develop into a felony and the matter reportedly has been referred to Niagara County District Attorney, Matthew Murphy. (3/27/03) To be filed under Lockport Letter
VP for VanDeMark parent says SNPE not making illegal sales to Iraq. Bernard Roussell, Vice President of Communications for SNPE (the French government owned chemical company) said last week that his company is not selling missile fuels to Iraq. He was responding to charges that SNPE in France was shipping UDMH (a missile fuel) and Ammonium Perchlorate (an oxidizer) to Iraq. Reports that SNPE was selling to Iraq were triggered by an article March 13th in the New York Times. Previous reports from SNPE headquarters had indicated the company does not export the poison gas phosgene, manufactured at its Lockport VanDeMark plant, to Europe or the world market. (3/25/03) To be filed under Lockport Lines
Progress reported on removing pigeon poop from F&M Building. The building (pictured) is vacant now at Main and Locust Street and has been for most of the period since the former Lockport Savings Bank (once known as the Farmer's & Mechanics Bank) moved out decades ago. But in that period pigeons have roosted in the copper ornamental trim around the top of the building generating a stockpile of pigeon poop. So much, in fact, that it has now been falling down on those walking below. Authorities expressed concern about a health hazard and this was confirmed to the Lockport Home Page on Monday, 3/24 as crews worked to clean up the "huge" amounts pigeon poop produced over the years. The Page was told that metal trim will be added to the copper ornamental framework at the top to keep the pigeons out. (3/24/03)
Brennan-Taylor lands political plum. Mary Brennan-Taylor who has reportedly been shopping for a political plum job since Congress John LaFalce left Congress has landed one at the cost of Niagara County taxpayers. She has been named "Executive Director" of the "Niagara County Commission of the Status of Women." The exact function of the "Commission" is unknown but the operation is run for the County through the YMCA of Niagara. Her salary information was not released. (3/20/03) To be filed under Lockport Political News
Elliott won't run for re-election. Niagara County Deputy Sheriff, Scott Elliott (D-First Ward) say he won't run for re-election to his seat on the LockportCommon Council. A replacement candidate for Elliott was not immediately announced by the local Democratic Committee. (3/20/02) To be filed under Lockport Political News
One city police cadet quits training. The Lockport Home Page was told Friday, 3/14, that 23-year old Michael R. Vogt (son of Lockport Police Captain Ronald Vogt) has withdrawn from the Police Academy training program at NCCC. There was no immediate word if he would be replaced in the training program, if the city would look elsewhere for another officer, or if the number of recruits, at least for now, would be lowered by one. (3/15/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
$1-Million in red ink forecast for city. The City of Lockport began its trip into red ink shortly after the administration of Mayor Tom Sullivan began three years ago and since then hasn't been able to recover. Information out this past week indicates that the projected deficit for 2003 is about $1-million in the city's $15.9-million general fund budget for 2003. Part of the inability to recover from the red ink is the lawmakers could never stick to their promised "hiring freeze." In fact an additional political free rider was added to the the payroll. Alderman Scott Cercone was quoted by the Greater Niagara Newspapers as evaluating the deficit problems by making the incredible declaration, "It's really nobody's fault...It's just a situation that's fickle at times." (3/14/03) To be filed under Lockport Lines
Effort to stop approval of new South Block mall rumored. The rumors began to circulate just two days after the announcement by Nuvo Group out of Niagara Falls of their proposed $5-6 million dollar project. Those moving the rumors say a local developer (who they do not name) wants the South Block to build something better and bigger (no plans, however revealed). Nuvo Group had sought prompt city approval so that they could start construction in the fall of 2003. Those who support, non-support for Nuvo group, don't say why the "local developer" did not submit his plans by the city's publicly announced deadline. It is said he won't reveal his plans for at least a month. And why the secrecy? The rumor mill doesn't reveal that. Reaction by the Common Council to the rumors has not yet been evaluated. (3/14/03) To be filed under Lockport Loose Lips
Another robbery at Sunoco gas station. The hold-up on Thursday, 3/13, was the second one in about two weeks for the gas station at High and South Transit. This job was carried off by a man different than the one who did the previously reported job at the close of February. About $50 in cash was taken. The robber escaped. Police are asking for public help and information on possible suspects for both robberies. (3/14/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
NCCC to lose OSHA training center designation. The facility in downtown Lockport at Pine and Main Streets is the only such OSHA training facility not renewed by the federal government. That action, effective September 1st, will mean a loss of about $1-million in income for Niagara County Community College according to college sources. The government is adding a training facility at Rochester Institute of Technology to replace Lockport. The Lockport center will continue in operation with its own training programs. (3/9/03) To be filed under NCCC News
$5-6 Million Development Proposed For South Block Downtown Lockport
Accused girl cocaine dealer, other admitted dealers, appear in County Court. Now 18 years old, Nicole McKerrow with public papers showing address of Blackley Court and of Glendale Drive, in Lockport, appeared in Niagara County Court this week to claim innocence in charges of selling cocaine to city police a year ago. Ms. McKerrow faced multiple drug counts at her first arraignment in the matter. In other cases, 44-year old Raymond E. Renouf Jr. of Chapel Street was sentenced to 15 months to four years in prison for cocaine dealing and 36-year old Shane Lamke of Dysinger Road was sent away for 6 months to be followed by five years probation, also for cocaine dealing. (3/7/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Neglect by town official could be costly for Eastpointe residents. When Lockport Town Supervisor John Austin and his staff looked over the Federal Emergency Management flood plain maps, up for their usual every ten-year review and update, they say they didn't notice that properties off Tonawanda Creek at the Eastpointe housing subdivision were revised in category to "flood plain." That could mean substantially increased insurance costs for residents there. Austin and the Town last year signed off on the new designations. The homeowners are now protesting and Ryan Homes, the builder, is quoted in media as considering legal action. Mr. Austin admits the map changes were not noticed and now is telling the Lockport Union-Sun & Journal the federal flood maps are "preposterous." He indicates he's going to try to get the designation reversed. However, the properties under consideration are only about a thousand feet from Tonawanda Creek which seriously floods about every ten years in the Spring. Markings on the official Niagara County highway map published in 1992 also designate the area as a water problem area. Residents impacted may have to pay from one to four- thousand dollars more in flood insurance on their homes valued at between $150K-$250K. Property values may also decline. (3/7/03) To be filed under Talk of the Town
Man sentenced to 20 years for rape of child under ten. The attorney for 26-year old Raymond C. Flores of 397 Union Street, told the court Thursday, 3/6, the convicted man reportedly suffers from "Attention Deficit Disorder" and deserves leniency. Judge Sara Sperrazza did give him a break in sentencing, handing down 20 years when he could have gotten 50. Flores in court continued to proclaim his innocence of the sex assault on the child that reportedly took place in a Jackson Street home "right under the nose" of the child's mother during August 2001. (3/7/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Woman admits stealing nearly $50K from business. 58-year old Carolyn B. Hamilton of 8153 State Street in Gasport has admitted, according to public papers, stealing $49.607.02 from the Johnson Country Store on Robinson Road in Lockport Town. Hamilton had denied such charges back in October when she was first arrested. She's been free without bail since then and will continue free while authorities plan a "restitution hearing" for April 10th. Investigators claim she altered business records at the store where she was employed over a approximate 18 month period to pull off the theft. (3/6/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Teacher, "Y" Counselor sentenced for sex offense with boy. A 37-year old Lockport man was sentenced to six months in jail for sexually abusing a young boy at the YMCA Camp Kenan in July 2002. The matter became public knowledge in a court hearing Tuesday, 3/4, before Niagara County Judge Peter Broderick. According to public papers, the accused, Dean E. Goff, also worked as a teacher in the Lockport Public School system in addition to being a "counselor" at the "Y" summer camp. Mr. Goff apologized to the boy's parents in court where a description of the behavior he was charged with was related. Additionally, public papers indicate, in a related matter at the camp, Mr. Goff "exposed himself" to a group of boys, aged 7 to 9, while pretending to be sleeping. He has reportedly been sentenced to six months in the Niagara County Jail, ten years probation, and various restrictions on his life including registration as a sex offender. Sources say Mr. Goff entered into a plea deal with the District Attorney's Office which reduced potential jail time to no more than one year. One report says the mother of a boy victim broke down emotionally while trying to read a statement in court at Tuesday's sentencing. (3/5/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Lockportian Wins Xavier U Basketball Competition. Lockportian Stephanie Ben, a freshman at Xavier University majoring in sports management, is the first to admit she’s a lousy basketball player. "It’s true," says Ben. "Even my mom will tell you I wasn’t very good. But all that’s changed, thanks to Ben’s determination and the help of three very skilled friends.
Ben, and her partner, Jack Deardorff, also a freshman at Xavier, have won the Xavier portion of the Atlantic 10 ShootOut Co-Ed division. The pair will now travel to the Atlantic 10 ShootOut Tournament at the University of Dayton arena March 14-16. There they will compete against winning teams from other Atlantic 10 schools. The winners could take home $10,000.
The ShootOut competition is open to all individuals who have a valid student ID, and are not student-athletes affiliated with their university's men's or women's varsity basketball teams. But that doesn’t mean they can’t get help. Ben got some coaching from three fellow students, Angelo Smith, Dedrick Finn and Keenan Christiansen. Okay, so they all happen to be members of Xavier’s nationally ranked men’s basketball team.
"The three really took her under their wing," says Stephanie’s mother, J. Suzan Ben. "They worked on her skills. She’s just thrilled and it just showed me what dedication these Xavier players have." Ben’s parents will travel from their home in Lockport, New York to cheer their daughter on in Dayton. "It’s been a great experience for Stephanie," Mrs. Ben says. (3/4/03) To be filed under Congratulatory Cheers
Rick Podgers announces his candidacy for Niagara County Legislator. He'll be running in the15th District (Lockport) as a Republican. Podgers has resided in the City of Lockport all his life. His opponent will be Democratic incumbent, Harry Apolitio.
Podgers gained political experience from his hard fought campaign for Niagara County Sheriff in 2001. "I was privileged to meet thousands of county residents while campaigning. I spoke to taxpayers in every town, village and city in Niagara County. The most resounding response I heard was taxes were too high. High taxes drive business, friends and families from our area. I promised then, as I do now, to end Niagara County politics as usual. The slogan in my last campaign was,"People before Politics". That theme will continue to be my stated goal as I campaign for Legislator in the 15th District."
Podgers continued, "The current leadership of the Niagara County Legislature is the same body that has imposed repeated tax burdens on the residents of this county. Some of our current legislators campaigned against a 1% increase in sales tax only to raise property tax last year by 20%, and now they raised our sales tax by 1 %. The recurring response out of our Legislature is, ‘State and Federal mandates made us do it!’ The truth is the State and Federal mandates tell the counties what it is they must provide. They do not tell them how much to spend to administer those mandated services".
"The current majority in our Legislature has now embarked on what could be the most important event in Niagara County history, the relicensing of the Power Authority. This is the same group that has an infamous record of making bad decisions. The reckless spending of our tobacco settlement drew national attention. We’ve experienced comical attempts to appoint a County manager; the debacle over appointing a DWI Coordinator, and suffered monumental property, and sales tax increases. This is the time to change the way our County does business. I will be your voice for this necessary change. I will help to bring integrity back to the Niagara County Legislature. We must end the mismanagement of the past, working tirelessly to make our County a great place to live and do business", said Podgers.
Podgers plans to seek the Republican, Independence, Conservative and Working Family Parties endorsements. Podgers and his wife, the former Candace Sposito, have one daughter. He holds an A.A.S. Degree from Niagara County Community College, and is a Detective Lieutenant with the City of Lockport Police Department. He is the former owner of B & P Security Systems. His wife Candace works as an Optician at Davison Road Optical. (3/4/03) To be filed under Lockport Political News
FBI nabs Lockport man on Internet child porn charges. Agents for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) say that 38-year old Timothy J. Tice will spend 12 years in federal prison. Mr. Tice allegedly used a computer at his residence on Price Street in Lockport to send child pornography to an FBI agent, posing as a child, over the Internet. He was arrested in Louisville, KY in a hotel room that he had reportedly rented in hopes of a meeting with a girl he thought was 14 years old. Instead, FBI agents arrived to arrest him. (3/4/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Over 1-Million in Harrison bonus money. Workers at the Lockport Delphi-Harrison plants will be receiving more than one million dollars on "profit sharing" bonus money in early March. The payments were suspended a year ago because of bad economic performance by the local parts maker. Hourly employees will be getting about $240 in bonus money. The amount that will go to salaried workers has not been made public. (3/3/03) To be filed under Delphi-Harrison News
Lockport suggested for site of state-funded "Canal Interpretive Center." A State commission has recommended spending $5.6-million in state tax dollars to establish six "interpretive centers" along the Erie Barge Canal. One would be in Lockport. Others have been suggested for Buffalo, the Tonawandas, Medina, Rochester, and Lyons. Because of the state financial distress, actual construction of the centers may be many years off. Exact locations have not been specified within the cities noted. (3/3/03) To be filed under Lockport Loose Lips
One arrested at big underage booze party. Police say up to 40 teenagers were packed into a home on Harvey Avenue, Saturday, 3/1 for a giant booze party. One 18-year old was arrested for failure to cooperate with police and underage possession of alcohol. All the others were let go with warnings. (3/2/02) To be filed under Lockport Law
Armed Robbery. At 2:40AM Saturday,3/1, Lockport Police responded to a report of an armed robbery at the Sunoco gas station located at High and S. Transit Streets Lockport. The attendant reported that a white male, 6 feet tall, thin build wearing a black jacket and a red knit cap had entered the store and demanded money. His hand was kept covered and he threatened to shoot the attendant. The suspect fled the store with an undetermined amount of cash. He was last seen fleeing south towards High Street. Niagara County Sheriffs’ Deputy James Hildreth and his dog Ciro assisted in the investigation. Detective Lt. Richard Podgers states that the investigation is continuing. If anyone has information concerning this incident they are asked to contact the Lockport Police Detective Division at 439-6723 or Police communications at 433-7700. All information will be confidential. (3/2/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Lawyer to run against Erck. The Republicans in Lockport Town are being asked to nominate Rick Updegrove as the party's opposition to Bradley Erck (D-Lockport) for this fall's elections for Niagara County Legislature. Updegrove is a 36-year old lawyer. Erck is a two-term incumbent, now retired from Delphi-Harrison. (3/1/03) To be filed under Lockport Political News
City hires three more police. All three will be paid to attend a 19-week police training school at NCCC and then will undergo local training in Lockport for ten more weeks. Hired are: 23-year old Michael R. Vogt (son of Lockport Police Captain Ronald Vogt), 24-year old Henry P. Nevins IV (son of radio personality Hank Nevins), and 32-year old Kendra L. DiTullio (Delphi-Harrison employee). An additional police officer is expected to be hired from a nearby police department. One rumor indicates that a 51- year old black, Buffalo Policeman is being considered. (2/28/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
City borrowing $1.5-million. Lockport City hasn't had a financial plan that allows it to pay-as-you-go so the $1.5-million borrowing it anticipates is not all that unusual except for size. Money will go for all sort of things like $17.5K for new bullet-proof vests for the police to hundreds of thousands of dollars for sewer and water repair projects. Most of the items appear to be operational/maintenance items which the city hasn't the money to fund in a normal fashion but has to repeatedly borrow for. The spending will probably take place over the 18 months. (2/25/03) To be filed under Lockport Lines
LHS Grad publishes book on travel in Italy.
Lockport High School Graduate (1949), D. Jean (Kolb) Lang has
published a travel essay book about her month stay in Italy entitled, "A Month in
Riva Trigoso". She was there during September 11, 2001 and relates her
experiences during that time along with travels to Rome, Florence, Pisa and Venice. Lang
retired from a position as Middle School Guidance Counselor after 25 years of working with
students. Over the years she traveled extensively to Spain, Ireland and most recently
Italy. Her sister, Mary Ann (Kolb) Newton owns and operates the Pleasant Valley
Tavern on Van Buren Street in Lockport. The book is available through "on
demand" publishing from Trafford Publishing, #8, 301 South Front St., New Bern, NC,
28560. The author can be contracted directly via e-mail at: jeanlang@juno.com
(2/23/03) To be filed under Lockport
Literary
2003 Tourism Center to be in City Hall. For the past few years the Lockport Tourism & Visitors Center was in one of the lobby rooms at the Dale Senior Citizen Center. But, when city officials cut the yearly giveaway of taxpayer funds to that organization, its leadership hit back at the city by evicting the visitor's center. For a time it appeared the center would be re-located to the Lockport Locks and Canal Tours facility on Market but another local tourism business objected to that. The resolution is that the tourism center will be back on the main floor at the Lockport Municipal Building ---where it had been previously before the move to the Dale Center. In 2004 there are tentative plans to relocate it again, this time to the old Hamilton House on Church Street which would be turned into a "state of the art" tourism center if the Niagara County Historical Society gets a $500,000 grant to do the work. (2/22/03) To be filed under Lockport Lines
Wetlands Park proposed for Niagara County Fairgrounds. Cooperative Education officials at the Niagara County Fairgrounds say that a $30,000 grant has been obtained to build a large aquatic education project. The money for the project comes from a fund created of extra fine surcharges placed on Hooker Chemical Company. The wetland project will be on the border of the fairgrounds and contain a pond about ten feet deep. The wetlands will extend roughly a bit short of about 600 x 400 feet and also include a bog garden, observation deck, butterfly garden, walkways, visitor center, and room for parking. The pond will be stocked with bass and bluegill. Construction will begin in the Spring of 2003. (2/22/03) To be filed under Environmental News
Black applicant gets second chance at Lockport Police physical. He failed the physical agility test the first time out (along with several other applicants) but Cleandrew Patterson will get another chance to pass the test Thursday, 2/20. The repeat test was authorized by a Police Board attempting to get a black policeman on the force to quiet criticism from the Lockport Union-Sun & Journal and certain minority groups. The Board also has to allow all other applicants who failed the test to take it again. Then, on Saturday, 2/22, the Police Board will take action to to recommend a couple of the applicants to the Common Council for hiring. The procedure works to the disadvantage of those applicants who passed the agility test the first time (and that reportedly includes one woman). Appointment is competitive among all applicants who have passed all tests but Mr. Patterson is regarded as the favorite, regardless of test scores,---if---he can pass the tests. Those chosen will go to Police Academy for (paid) training and won't be on the street for several months. Police Chief Neil Merritt is also seeking approval to hire at least one applicant through "lateral transfer" --- that is, from another area police agency (where pay is lower). Such action would help fill the staffing hole at the Police Department in weeks, rather than months. (2/20/03) Update 2/21: The Union-Sun & Journal reports all four who failed, and retook the physical test on 2/20...failed again. Mr. Patterson, the newspaper reports, feels the city should still pay to send him to the Police Academy giving him another six months to train and try to pass the physical on a third re-test. The city is now said to have five (qualified) candidates for four open positions. To be filed under Lockport Law
Lockport Council approves demolition action. The Lockport Common Council moved Wednesday night, 2/19 to have the burned out multiple-tenant house at the corner of Elmwood and Washburn Streets demolished. Councilwoman Phyllis Green said the owner lives in Niagara Falls and police have not been able to serve him. The building had a fire a few years ago. Tenants vacated leaving most of their junk on the front lawns, an accumulation that continued until a pictorial ran in the Lockport Home Page noting the mess and hazard. The building, in the heart of the Lockport Crime District, is neighbored by a few other houses also the victims of fires that are boarded up. The city's downtown area has a multitude of unsolved arsons.
Roof job at schools > Half Million $. The Lockport Board of Education was told Wednesday night, 2/19, that the roof at the high school on Lincoln Avenue needed "emergency" repairs. Use of the term "emergency" may allow school administrators to have the work done without standard competitive bidding procedures. The cost is estimated, according to Superintendent Fraiser, at about $600,000 but may include work on other school roofs. (2/20/03) To be filed under Lockport School News
Loss of heart. The Heart-to-Heart Gift Shop in Lockview Plaza, Pine and Main Streets, in downtown Lockport is going out of business. Owner Beverly Farnham blamed Lockportians for her business' failure telling the Niagara Gazette, "Lockport doesn't support Lockport." Others had a different view. An often heard observation has been that the Lockview Plaza is so loaded with governmental, public agency, and non-retail business that few shoppers bother to go there. Said one downtowner to the Lockport Page, "The tenant mix at Lockview Plaza is bad for retail business." (2/20/03) To be filed under Lockport Lines
Aronow to run again for Legislature. Glenn Aronow who was defeated in his run for the 16th District Niagara County Legislature by John Cole (D-Lockport) two years ago, told the Lockport Union-Sun & Journal on Monday, 2/17 that he was again a candidate for that position in the November elections. On Tuesday, after the newspaper announced his candidacy, Mr. Aronow sent the following press release to the Lockport Home Page:
Glenn Aronow
announced his candidacy for the 16th District of the Niagara County Legislature today.
Aronow, 37, of Hi-Point Dr, City of Lockport, ran unsuccessfully two years ago, gaining
45% of the vote in a hotly contested race against long-time incumbent John Cole III. Cole
announced his retirement from the County Legislature earlier this month which becomes
effective at the end of this year. Aronow stated, " I plan on waging another vigorous
campaign this year and look forward to representing the residents of the16th District. I
cherish this opportunity and will leave no stone unturned in fighting for Lockport's fair
share and forging a new path of economic recovery for our area." Married to the
former Diane Misch, Aronow and his wife have three daughters. He received his B.S. in
Business Management from Clarion University of Pennsylvania in 1988.
Truax named Lockport City Historian. Former Niagara County Legislator and longtime local history buff, Margaret Truax has been named the new Lockport City Historian according to a report to the Lockport Home Page. Mrs. Truax takes over the part-time position which has been vacant for some time since the previous appointee moved out of the city. (2/15/03) To be filed under Lockport Loose Lips
Caswell done at US&J; Circulation said down slightly. The longtime business manager of the Lockport Union-Sun & Journal, and in recent years, the Greater Niagara Newspaper group, Dan Caswell, has been "retired." Sources tell the Lockport Home Page the Lockport man is not being replaced on a man-to-man, job-to-job basis. The move was seen as another money-saving action by the Alabama owners of the newspaper. The Lockport Page was told that the US&J's recent series of attacks on the city police department may have been the reason for about 200 subscriptions being dropped in the past six months. We have been unable to confirm that speculation. (2/15/03) To be filed under Media Monitor
Details On The Shooting Of Two Lockport Policemen,
The Brazen Bullet Blast At The Niagara Hotel, & A Night Of Gun Terror
Are On Our
Top Story Page
Man charged with Crime District gunpoint robbery. A 27-year old Youngstown man was arrested Friday, 2/7 in Lockport and charged in connection with the gunpoint robbery of a teenager on Tuesday in the City Crime District. Police charge Jerome Warren of Lutts Road with first-degree robbery. He's accused of driving his vehicle up along side one driven by a Lockport teen on Genesee Street, pointing a gun at the victim and demanding money. He reportedly got $40 and fled the scene. (2/8/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Five charged in connection with forgery, check scam. Police say a 32-year old Minnick Road man was responsible for draining the bank account of a Vermont Avenue resident. John C. Shaw has been charged with two counts of forgery and three counts each of criminal possession of stolen property and criminal possession of a forged instrument. He's accused of using about 15 blank check taken from the victim's home and using them to get between $100 and $400 each from places where they were cashed after being forged. Later, police charged four more in connection with the alleged scam. Those reported facing assorted charges include: 25-year old Douglas P. Johnson of Ashley Place, 41-year old Austin R. Wagner of Grand Street, 20-year old Brianna L. Jones of Main Street in Newfane, and 35-year old Peter S. Durie of Franklin Street. (2/8/03) To be filed under Lockport Law
Cole endorses Boron for Stop DWI Job. Niagara County Legislator, John Cole (D-Lockport) has endorsed Mary Boron of Lockport for the position of Stop DWI Coordinator ($45k/year) which he had sought but has now given up seeking. Boron had the job for several years but was fired when the Democrats took control of the Legislature because her party affiliation was Republican. (2/7/03) To be filed under Niagara County Political News
Democratic chief gets Lockport Civil Service plum. Lockport Mayor Tom Sullivan announced that he had appointed Mary Elena-Keleher as the city's Civil Service Secretary. Keleher says she is resigning her post as Chairperson of the Lockport City Democratic Committee to take the post but does not want to give up her Niagara County pension. To keep her County money coming in, Keleher must keep her city work hours from exceeding about 28 hours a week. (2/4/03) To be filed under Lockport Political News
Two charged with having pot, not having licenses. 42-year old Wayne E. Hunt, a reported driver for Custom Taxi in Lockport, was arrested Saturday morning, 2/1. Hunt, authorities say, was in a vehicle behind the the former K-Mart store off South Transit with a pipe and marijuana. Oh---and authorities report---Mr. Hunt doesn't have a valid driver's license even though it's his employment to drive cab.&nb