Hometown News: Watching the Floods

All eyes are on the Tonawanda Creek after a night of flooding. Runoff from melting snow took the creek past the flood stage of 12 feet. Flooding is still possible in north Clarence, north Amherst, Royalton, and Newstead. That means roads such as Millersport Highway, Tonawanda Creek Road and the Ransom Oaks area could be wet or icy as temps drop. Meantime, our region continued the cleanup of toppled trees, and electric crews worked to restore power from downed lines.

HTN: Accused Falls Cop Due back in Court

A suspended Niagara Falls cop, accused of sexually assaulting two women and trafficking cocaine, will be back in federal court today. A judge is scheduled to decide whether 27-year-old Ryan Warme should be held in jail while awaiting trial. Warme's attorney has filed paperwork stating that his client did in fact have consensual sexual relations with the alleged victims while on duty.. Prosecutors say Warme used his position as a police officer to force sex on the women, bought and sold drugs while in uniform and gave law enforcement information to drug dealers. Warme has pleaded not guilty and has been in custody without bail since his arrest December 2nd.

HTN: Area Population Milestones

The Town of Tonawanda will reach a population milestone New Years Eve, but it's not a good one. The town's population is expected to fall below 71-thousand. That slippage means the first count under 71-thousand since the 1950s. the City of Buffalo's population drops to 268-thousand-900 in the New Year.

HTN: New Year's Downtown

Downtown Buffalo's New Year's Eve ball drop and fireworks display organizers are expecting "at least" 40-thousand people to attend. A tribute to the University of Buffalo football team, who are playing in the January 3rd International Bowl in Toronto, will be on tap, along with the usual midnight fireworks display to ring in the new year. Metro Rail will run an extra two hours on New Year's Eve to accommodate First Night Buffalo at the Convention Center, and the ball drop in Roosevelt Square. The last outbound train leaves the Erie Canal Harbor Station at 2 am Thursday morning, New Year's Day. Inbound Rail service will stop about 20 minutes before the midnight ball drop.

Good Morning Buffalo: Bills Post-Mortem

Loraine and Tom put a bad Bills season to bed with Joe Major.

BuffaloStyle: County Budget Battle

Chrsitina Abt brings in both sides of the Erie County budget battle; also a conversation with local musician and Rockabilly Hall of Famer Ed Bentley.

Hometown News: Bills' Facilities Damaged by Winds

Bills fans were confronted with strong wind gusts, which caused damage to cars and the Fieldhouse, and even a couple of delays in the game. Part of the Fieldhouse roof was ripped away by the winds, and the facility was closed to the public. The wind also caused considerable damage to the practice field. Cars were damaged on the way to the game, and while sitting in the parking lot. Port-a-potties were even tossed on their sides by the gusts. Fans also had to dodge flying gravel in the parking lots.

HTN: Blasdell Standoff Ends Peacefully

An overnight standoff ended peacefully early this morning in Blasdell. Hamburg police say they received a call about a domestic dispute on North Street. The woman involved ran out of the house without her 4-year old daughter, and there was concern about a gun threat. After several hours, an emergency response team entered the residence and took the man into custody. No one was hurt.

HTN: Fall Cop Had Consensual Sex on Duty, According to Lawyer

The lawyer for a embattled Niagara Falls police officer, says that Ryan Warme has admitted to consensual relations sex with two women while on duty. But defense attorney Joel Daniels argues that his client has been wrongly accused of federal civil rights crimes.

HTN: Lackawanna Woman Pleads Guilty to Dumping Dead Baby

The 19-year-old who discarded her dead baby in a garbage tote near the Botanical Gardens has now pleaded guilty to accidental manslaughter charges. Alicia Zebrun of Lackawanna was told she faces a prison term of up to three years when she is sentenced in April. She remains in custody.

HTN: More Weekend Weather Woes

The remnants of the weekend windstorms are apparent on city streets. A bus shelter tilted; traffic lights, street lights, and some Western New York homes still don't have power. Some homes and businesses were damaged by the winds. Utility crews from Pennsylvania and downstate New York have been called in to help restore power. You are reminded to treat traffic lights affected by the outages as four-way stops.

There are several flood warnings in effect through this evening. Tonawanda Creek is expected to crest at 16-point-eight feet. The affected areas include Oatka Creek at Garbutt, Ellicott Creek below Williamsville, and Tonawanda Creek at Batavia and Rapids.

Brad Riter Show: Audio from Christmas Week!

Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown and UB's Turner Gill

New Era's Gerry Matos

ESPN.com's Tim Graham

Hometown News: Boxing Day Weather

With thousands expected at stores to hunt for sales on the day after Christmas, it's decent weather today. Rain is expected to arrive in the late evening, with temperatures rising into the upper 40s.

HTN: Another Christmas, More Fights at Cinemas

It's becoming a terrible holiday habit here in Western New York. For the third straight year, out-of-control youths have started fights on Christmas at an area movie theatre. Cheektowaga Police say they arrested at least six people, after fights at the Regal Cinemas at Walden Galleria last night. Captain John Glascott said the incidents begam about 9:30 p.m, and a mall security guard suffered minor injuries. Buffalo Police, State Police and Transit Police assisted in breaking up the fights. ast Christmas, a teen was shot across the street from the Regal Cinema on Elmwood Avenue in Buffalo following a fight at the theater. And in 2006, teens were arrested after a fight inside the Elmwood Regal.

HTN: Christmas Morning Shooting

Authorities are investigating a Christmas morning shooting that left a teen girl dead and 19-year-old youth in serious condition. Police say 18-year-old Sarah Ernst of West Seneca and Breion Collins of Buffalo were leaving a house party on Buffalo's West Side when someone opened fire on them as they drove away in Ernst's SUV. Police say they were able to drive away but stopped later at Albany Street where Ernst was pronounced dead and Collins was transported to a medical facility. Authorities say they believe one person is responsible for the shooting but do not have a motive.

HTN: Buffalo Christmas Tree Pickup Schedule

The City of Buffalo Department of Public Works, Parks and Streets will collect Christmas dumped trees during garbage pickups from January 5th to the 9th. Trees will be picked up separately from garbage. Residents are asked to put them on the curb, preferably unbagged. The city also will operate drop-off sites for trees from 7:30 a. m. to 3 p. m. beginning today and continuing every day but Sundays through January 17th in the Cazenovia Park golf parking lot, the Shoshone Park parking lot and in the parking lot at 1120 Seneca St.

Good Morning Buffalo: Santa Expert

Loraine and Tom talk to Santa Claus Expert Jerry Sullivan.

Hometown News: Holiday Weather

Christmas Eve will continue the interesting weather trend we've had the last few days. A High Wind Watch has been issued for Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans, and Wyoming Counties from this evening into Thursday morning. There's also a lakeshore flood watch for Erie County from Wednesday evening into Thursday morning.

Superintendent of Streets Larry Panaro says plowing city streets has been, quote, "a very slow, difficult process." He notes that many vehicles are parked illegally, making it difficult for plows to get through. Panaro says crews are constantly on the road, working 16-hour shifts. Officials remind residents that major roads and emergency routes come first, and that because of the severity of the storms, plows had to go back and start over when snow built up on the major thoroughfares once more.

The "Help Wanted" signs are out in front of Ralph Wilson Stadium. 16-year-olds and older with two forms of ID can work snow shoveling shifts that run through Saturday. The pay is ten dollars an hour. Shifts are from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m. to midnight, and midnight to 7 a.m.

Cleanup from weekend storms has delayed another kind of cleanup. Garbage pickup has been delayed by one-day this week. Christmas Day was a planned day off for garbage crews before the storms. Thursday and Friday pickups have been moved to Friday and Saturday, respectively.

Christmas Wishes!

Happy Holidays from Hometown 1230 WECK! Our first year on the air and on-line has been an adventure! We look forward to your comments during the New Year!

Tom Schuh
Operations Manager/Blogger/Twitterer

HTN: Extension Likely for Assessment Challenges in City

If you think your home in Buffalo has been assessed too highly, you may have extra time to file a challenge. Members of the Common Council say they support Mayor Byron Brown's plan to give homeowner's an additional three weeks to file the challenges. The new deadline would be January 21st. Brown says the extension will give residents extra time to research the value of their homes.

HTN: Newest Lottery Millionaire

The latest New York Lottery winner has big plans for the money. Hieu Tran is a Vietnam native and plans to go back to visit his mother with a portion of the money. The rest will go to his children's education. The 38-year-old South Buffalo resident was presented with the first installment of his winnings Tuesday afternoon by New York Lottery officials at the Noco Express Shop on South Park Avenue where he bough the "In the Money" scratch-off ticket. Tran came to the U.S. in 1987 as a teenager. His million-dollar jackpot will be paid out over 20 years, in 50-thousand-dollar installments, which is whittled down to just 34-thousand-75 dollars per payment after taxes.

HTN: Tracking Santa

Members of the New York Air National Guard are on duty as the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) prepares to track Santa's annual trip around the world. Members at the Northeast Air Defense Sector in Rome, NY, stay on-duty around the clock tracking the jolly old elf's journey across the eastern half of the U.S. As part of NORAD, NEADS uses radar, satellites, Santa Cams and fighter jets to track Santa. The Santa tracking tradition started in 1955, after a Sears Roebuck and Co. ad for children to call Santa misprinted the phone number. Instead of reaching Santa, the children reached the Continental Air Defense Command's Commander In Chief's operations hotline. The NORAD Tracks Santa website is: http://www.noradsanta.org.

State Voters Split on Senate Seat

New York State voters are split 40 to 41-percent on whether Caroline Kennedy is qualified to be a U.S. Senator, but they expect Governor Paterson to name her. That's according to a Quinnipiac University poll that finds 48-percent believe she'll take over the seat being vacated by Hillary Clinton. Offered a choice, 33-percent of voters say Paterson should name Ms. Kennedy, while 29-percent say Attorney General Andrew Cuomo should get the nod.

Reason with Scott Leffler

Last live show of the year: The Year in Review

Hometown News: Still Cleaning Up after Weekend Storms

Western New Yorkers are still digging out from the weekend winter blast. The Buffalo region saw between one-to-two feet of additional snow accumulations on top of fell last Friday. Despite a warmup tomorrow, there likely will be a white Christmas. Temperatures are expected to be in the 40's on Christmas Eve but it won't be enough to melt all of the snow. Monday's snow messed up the garbage collection schedule in Buffalo, with most neighborhoods now a day behind. Monday's pickup was made today. Today's pickup will happen Wednesday. Wednesday garbage will be taken on Christmas Day, and so on for the rest of the week.

HTN: Meet Set in Kaleida Labor Dispute

A federal mediator is set to sit down today with Kaleida Health and the union that represents health care workers at Women & Children's Hospital. Some are saying that if there is a strike, Kaleida might once again propose closing the Bryant Street facility.

HTN: Snombobile Victim Identified

North Tonawanda police have identified the man killed over the weekend riding a snowmobile. Authorities say 32-year-old David Munter hit a moving car on Erie Avenue at about 3:30 Sunday morning. The driver of the vehicle, 22-year-old John McDonald, was charged with DWI, although investigators are not sure who is at fault for the crash. It is still unclear if Munter was riding the snowmobile in the middle of the street or just crossing the street. The investigation continues.

HTN: Gift Cards Returned to Catholic Charities

A story that sounds straight out of Dickens. In November, some Scrooge took 15-hundred dollars worth of supermarket gift cards from the Catholic Charities' office on Oakmont Avenue. Now we find out that a Buffalo man bought the gift cards from someone on the street, to help his family at the holidays. Then the man heard the story of the theft on the news, and returned the cards to the office.

HTN: Buffalo Ranked in Fitness Survey

Buffalo ranks in the middle of two new rankings of health and fitness. Buffalo is listed as 49th out of 100 major cities of conditions for men by "Men's Health" magazine. A "Women's Health" magazine article puts Buffalo in 53rd for health and fitness. The magazines looked at 38 factors, such as air quality, cancer rates, and the number of gym memberships. The focus was cities, not metropolitan areas. The best place for women was Salt Lake City, Utah, and the best place for men was Madison, Wisconsin. Ranking at the bottom of the mens list was Charleston, West Virginia, while Bakersfield, California is no good for women.

Buffalo Irish Radio 12/21/08

Hosted by Tom Callahan.

Reason with Scott Leffler

Scott talks with Matt Pearl from Channel 2 about the Bills and the storm

BuffaloStyle - 12/20/08

Christina Abt explores personal holiday miracles of Western New Yorkers.

Ask the Pro: Budwey Supermarkets

Owner Frank Budwey played Santa Claus today, giving away free gift cards.

Hometown News: Digging Out Again

Some hometown streets are still looking for their first plow job. Buffalo Public Works Commissioner Steve Stepniak says it's been difficult, with frequent whiteout conditions, drifting snow, accidents, and stranded vehicles. More than 30 plow crews have been working 12 hour shifts. The heaviest areas of lake effect snow have been south of Buffalo and down towards the Southern Tier, with accumulations up to one foot. Delays backed up flights at Buffalo Niagara International Airport Sunday. Be sure to check with your carrier if you plan to fly today.

HTN: Fatal Crash in Cambria

A Lockport woman is dead after a Sunday afternoon crash in Cambria. The Niagara County Sheriff's Department says 34-year-old April Torres lost control of her car on Saunders Settlement Road and collided with oncoming traffic. Torres was pronounced dead at the scene. Several others were taken to area hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries. The accident remains under investigation.

HTN: Fatal Snowmobile Crash in NT

A North Tonawanda man was killed on his snowmobile, after colliding with a car. Police say it happened about 3:30 Sunday morning on Erie Avenue. Authorities say the driver of the car, 22-year-old john McDonald of Pendleton, was charged with drunk driving. Cops say the victim was riding the snowmobile in the middle of the street, which is illegal.

HTN: Rallying to Save Fort Erie Track

A chunk of the Canadian horse-racing industry rallied Sunday to try to save Fort Erie Race Track. Harsh weather didn't keep horsemen from coming out in support of the the 100-year-old facility. Owners Nordic Gaming Corporation last week passed out nearly 200 pink slips to racetrack workers. The company says there will be no summer racing unless the Province of Ontario agrees to a request for three-million dollars. Fort Erie Mayor Doug Martin says he's supposed to have an answer to his request for government funding by January 15th.

HTN: Cuomo Said to be Unhappy with Kennedy Attention

Andrew Cuomo is said "fuming" over the attention being given to Caroline Kennedy regarding Hillary Clinton's Senate seat. As Cuomo announced a two-point-seven-million dollar settlement with the operator of an illegal dump in Lackawanna last week, Kennedy was having lunch with the Reverend Al Sharpton in Harlem. Kennedy received national news attention, while Cuomo is said to believe his story was ignored. Publically, Cuomo says the decision to pick New York's next senator is up to Governor Paterson, and Cuomo's aides say he is content with his current post.

Audio from the Brad Riter Show

12/17/08: This was the night we discovered that Brad's intern was once charged with conspiracy to commit murder. Scott Wilson joins for the whole show, the intern comes in around halfway through. Segment 1 Segment 2 Segment 3 Segment 4 Segment 5 Segment 6 Segment 7 Segment 8 Segment 9

12/15/08 (entire show)

Reason with Scott Leffler

Scott's last live show before the holiday! The ups and downs of the NFTA Metro system.

Good Morning Buffalo: Calleri at the Movies

Warm up at the theatre this weekend! Michael Calleri reviews the new films.

Buffalo Irish Radio

Tom Callahan's show from 12/14/08

BuffaloStyle from 12/13/08

Christina Abt discovers Buffalo holiday celebrations including Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa.

Hometown News: Snowy Afternoon

Snow is expected to continue falling today and totals could stack up nine inches of the white stuff. Western New York is forecast to be hit with another round of Old Man Winter through this afternoon. The Rochester area is under a winter storm warning from 8 a.m. through 10 p.m. The snow is expected to start falling by 9 a.m. and we could see winds up to 25 miles-per hour. Our winter storm warning continues until 10 tonight.

Committees Approve Metro Fare Hike

The wheels are now in motion for commuters to pay more for Metro Bus and Rail fares. Two Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority committees have recommend a 25-cent boost in the base fare effective January 1st. That would bump the cost from a dollar-fifty to a dollar-seventy-five. The plan also would include another 25-cent raise in July, if budget gaps are not filled by then. The full Authority will vote on the matter on Monday.

Plea Deal in Assault on Schoolgirl

A North Tonawanda man has pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl. Prosecutors say 41-year-old Mitchell Brokob admitted to grabbing the girl at knifepoint outside of his Gilmore Avenue home on March 20th. Under the plea agreement he will be sentenced to the maximum of 25 years to life in prison. Brokob's attorneys say he will also plead guilty to federal child porn charges. The Erie County DA's office says they are investigating possible links to a child molestation case from four years ago. Authorities say Brokob's DNA matched evidence from the assault on the 12-year-old girl.

HTN: Batavia School Bus Driver Cheered

The Batavia school bus driver who talked a a six-year-old into surrendering a weapon is being hailed. James Henning told the boy if he didn't want to get in major trouble he needed to hand the weapon over. The boy produced a purple sack with the gun inside. Twenty other kids were on the bus. The boy's father and older brother, who don't live with the little boy, are facing charges of child endangerment and weapons violations, as police say both of them knew the unregistered gun was in the home and had handled it before. The boy said he found the gun under his mother's bed. She has not yet been charged. Authorities are still investigating.

HTN: Andreychuk Pitches Hamburg Rink Expansion

Ex-Sabre Dave Andreychuk retired in 2006, but is looking to get back out on the ice. The 600-goal-scorer pitched a plan for a new ice rink in Hamburg at a public information meeting. The house would provide a place for the town's growing hockey programs. Hamburg resident Jeff Walker and Andreychuk run the Leaping Sports Facility Management LLC company, which has been the sole bidder in responding to a proposal request by the town. Andreychuk and Walker want to lease the town's municipal ice rink and spend between eight and nine-million dollars to build a second rink, indoor soccer field, new locker rooms, a restaurant, and parking and other property and facility upgrades. Recreation Department officials say leasing the building would mostly eliminate the operating costs the facility loses for low attendance numbers on weekdays. There are currently 940 players in the Hamburg Hawks youth hockey league, but that number continues to grow.

HTN: Golisano is a Top Clinton Contributor

One of Upstate New York's wealthiest men, Tom Golisano, is one of former President Bill Clinton's top fundraisers. According to financial records released by Clinton, the Buffalo Sabres owner has contributed at least ten-million dollars to Clinton's Foundation. Golisano was among four donors on the ten-to-25 million category. Just two donors were above the 25-million-dollar threshold. Clinton has released the fundraising disclosures as his wife, Hillary, prepares to become Secretary of State. As part of the agreement with the Obama Administration, Clinton promised to release his donors, including foreign governments with whom Hillary may have to negotiate with.

Good Morning Buffalo: Food Bank of WNy

Loraine and Tom with Paula Milligan, discussing the Food Bank's holiday campaign.

Reason with Scott Leffler

Caroline Kennedy visited Buffalo yesterday. Is she the right choice for Senate? Dynasty politics explored.

Weather Alert: Winter Storm Warning

It's now a Winter Storm Warning from 6 a.m. until 8 p.m. Friday

Hometown News: Caroline in Buffalo

Everybody's talking about Caroline Kennedy today. Despite that fact that she's never held political office, she's emerged as the frontrunner to replace Hillary Clinton in the Senate. Ms. Kennedy spoke after visiting Mayor Brown at City Hall yesterday. Her visit to the Quuen City was part of an upstate tour that also included Rochester and Syracuse. Kennedy says she wants to know what issues are here, and she also wanted to meet with local officials. Former Erie County Republican Party Chairman Bob Davis says Kennedy brings with her the name, money, status, and what he called "the Kennedy aura" to the seat, but not the political qualifications.

HTN: Health Care Hit Hard by Budget

It's probably the biggest industry in Western New York, but it expects to be socked by Governor Paterson's budget cuts. Medical services in Western New York have expanded while other businesses have struggled, with facilities exoansions including the Buffalo-Niagara Medical Corridor. But now hospitals and nursing homes are calling 3-point-5 billion in health-related cuts staggering and disproportionate, warning that the reductions will lead to layoffs and facility closures.

HTN: Boy Boards Batavia Bus with Gun

A six-year-old boy in Batavia boarded a school bus with a gun yesterday . Authorities say the bus driver was told the student had a weapon. The driver then confronted the boy, who gave up the gun. Police say there were no bullets in the chamber, but there was ammunition in the clip. The investigation continues.

HTN: No More Free Ride on Downtown Rail?

There may not be a free ride much longer on Metro Rail's downtown section. The NFTA is considering implementing a fare for the above-ground section that has been free since the line opened in 1986. Currently, riders who get on between Scott and Tupper Streets do not have to pay. But, the NFTA wants to change that because of a nine-million dollar budget gap. Riders on the rest of the line will be paying more as regulat bus and rail fares are expected to increase to a dollar-75 on January 1st. The NFTA is holding a heated meeting on the fare increase this hour.

HTN: New Name for Ballpark

The downtown stadium that hosts the Bisons has been known as Pilot Field, North Americare Park, and Dunn Tire Park. Now, it's Coca-Cola Field. The team and the city made an announcement yesterday that a ten-year naming-rights agreement with the soft-drink company will replace the Dunn Tire contract which runs out at the end of the year.

WECK Weather Alert: Winter Storm Watch

A Winter Storm Watch is in effect for Western New York and Northern Pennsylvania from tonight through the afternoon Friday. Light snow is expected to develop before daybreak Friday, followed by moderate to heavy snow with blowing and drifting, putting an estimated seven to 12 inches on the ground. The heavy snow will diminish to snow showers by Friday evening. Snow could come back Tuesday night and stick around through Christmas Eve.

Hometown News: Caroline Kennedy in Buffalo

Caroline Kennedy was in Buffalo as Mayor Brown's guest this afternoon, and expressed her interest in Hillary Clinton's U.S. Senate seat. The visit to City Hall was part of a whirlwind upstate tour today including Syracuse and Rochester.

Ask the Pro: The Financial Hour

This week's edition with Mike Gimlin and Todd Miller.

Reason with Scott Leffler

Scott goes off on Albany after the Governor releases his budget.

Good Morning Buffalo: Amherst Downsizing

Loraine and Tom spoke to Amherst Councilwoman Shelly Schratz.

Hometown News: Reaction to Paterson Budget

Lawmakers across the state are reacting to the Governor's executive budget. Presumptive State Senate Majority Leader Malcolm Smith says shared sacrifices will be made. Assembly Minority Leader Jim Tedisco calls Governor Paterson's various tax and fee increases "ugly," and says they will hit the middle class hard. Tedisco adds you especially shouldn't raise taxes during a recession.

HTN: Alden Murder-Suicide

A married couple in the Town of Alden is dead after an apparent murder suicide. Authorities say 39-year-old Jack Wilczak and 35-year-old Lisa Wilczak were found dead in their Four Rod Road home on Monday night. Investigators say Jack shot Lisa once in the chest in the living room, then went to the bedroom and shot himself in the head. Investigators are trying to piece together what led up to the shooting. The couple leaves behind two children ages eleven and 13.

HTN: Fort Erie Track on Last Legs?

The Fort Erie horse racing track could be on it's way to the finish line after more than a century. 190 employees have been told their jobs are due for termination by the end of March. However, owner Nordic Gaming Group says it will pursue every effort to find a way to keep the races going for 2009. The company wants to put pressure on the provincial government of Ontario to come to some financial arrangement. The adjacent Fort Erie casino will not be effected. The race track has is the seventh oldest in North America.

Breaking News: Gill to Stay at UB

UB football coach Turner Gill is staying put! Gill will remain on the Bulls sidelines after receiving a contract extension and salary increase. UB finishes its historic 2008 at the International Bowl in Toronto on January 3rd. Hear it here on the Home of the Bulls, Hometown 1230 WECK!

Reason with Scott Leffler

The Buffalo chapter of the Better Business Bureau talks about holiday scams and much more.

Good Morning Buffalo: NFADA's Paul Stasiak

The head of the area's auto-dealers association speaks with Loraine and Tom about the challenges facing his industry.

Segment 1

Segment 2

Governor Halves Funding for Empire Zones

Governor David Paterson is slashing the funding for New York's most expensive economic development program. He's now requiring that all companies participating in the Empire Zone program to meet tough new investment standards, which will be proposed today in his state budget plan. Empire Zone offers tax breaks to businesses in exchange for development in distressed areas. Governor Paterson is poised to cut half the program's funding: 270-million dollars that benefits 21-hundred companies as the entire program winds down in 2011. Hundreds of hometown businesses are included in those cuts. The Buffalo zone covers four square miles, mainly downtown.

HTN: Plea Deal in Fatal Street race

Christopher Mejak has taken a plea deal for his involvement in an illegal street race that left two dead. The 21-year-old was allegedly racing Mark Harhigh of Lancanster on Transit Road in May, with speeds reaching 120-miles-an-hour. Harhigh crossed over four lanes of traffic and hit a pole, which split his car in to, killing him and his girlfriend, Melanie Page of Cheektowaga. Mejak has pleaded guilty to two counts of criminally negligent homicide and faces up to four years in jail. The minimum is six months jail time and five years probation. Mejak is free on ten-thousand dollars bail. He will be sentenced in March

HTN: Mattel Settles Lead Suit

Toymaker Mattel, which owns East Aurora's Fisher-Price, has reached a 12-million-dollar settlement with 39 state attorneys general, including New York's. The settlement stems from a 2007 recall of toys made in China which were found to have lead levels far more than federal standards allow. Mattel has also agreed to stricter standards for lead in toys made after November 30th, as well as to keep four years of records from subcontractors. New York's portion of the settlement is 340-thousand.

HTN: Common Council Approves Capital Spending

The Buffalo Common Council has narrowly approved the city's 2009 capital budget. The 20-million-dollar spending plan was approved by a five-four margin. As part of the plan, six-and-a-half million dollars for road repairs will be divided into nine accounts, one for each Council district. Council members say that will ensure that each area of the City gets a fair share of road improvements. More than 300-thousand dollars has been cut, which would have been earmarked for repairs at City Hall and another 365-thousand eliminated that was going to a new police and fire communications system. Mayor Byron Brown and the city control board will have to sign off on the spending.

HTN: Buffalo Christmas Tree Pickups Announced

The city of Buffalo will collect Christmas trees for mulching after the holidays. The Department of Public Works, Parks and Streets is offering the service in order to expand the city recycling program. The collection program runs January 5th through 9th and is part of scheduled garbage collection days. Place trees at the curb before scheduled pickup, but don't put them in garbage bags. Trees will be picked up separately from garbage. Trees can also be dropped off between 7:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday from December 26th through January 17th at the golf course parking lot in Cazenovia Park, the Shoshone Park parking lot, and at 1120 Seneca Street.

Ask the Pro: Make-A-Wish Special

The hometown chapter of Make-A-Wish discusses their program with Loraine O'Donnell.

Reason with Scott Leffler

An insufferable Bills season discussed with sportswriter Tim Schmidt.

Good Morning Buffalo: Mike Randall

Channel 7's weather guy talks about his side job: portraying Charles Dickens.

Hometown News: Hardy Out

Brad Riter reports that Bills rookie WR James Hardy tore his ACL Sunday against the Jets and will need surgery. More details tonight at 6.

HTN: Governor Signs Indian Tax Bill

Governor Paterson has signed a bill which would begin the collection of state sales taxes on cigarette on Indian lands. The state is looking to close a projected 15-billion-dollar budget gap, and this measure could raise upwards of 400-million dollars according to some estimates. The taxes would only be enforced on non-Indian purchases. Tribes such as the Seneca Nation say it violates treaties which are hundreds of years old. When former Governor George Pataki tried a similar move, Indian tribes shut down the Thruway and violence erupted.

HTN: Inner Harbor Plan Unveiled

The Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation and the Empire State Development unveiled the master plan for Buffalo's inner harbor revitalization yesterday. The Canal Side project will cover 20 acres of the waterfront with 725-thousand-square-feet of entertainment, hotel, office, retail, residential and restaurant. The plan also includes waterfalls, an ice-skating rink, towpaths, a replica milling wheel, underwater tunnel, canal boats, and more. Construction won't start until a State Environmental Quality Review is finished; that could take six to 12 months.

HTN: Tops is Expanding

Tops is expanding despite the weak economy. The area's leading grocer is adding seven to ten new stores in Buffalo, Rochester, and mid-state market. The company is also spending 150-million dollars for renovations to its existing 76 stores. Currently, Tops employs around ten-thousand people.

Promo: Trip to Toronto for UB Football

We're giving you the chance to "Hit the Road with the UB Bulls," and win a trip to Toronto to see the UB Bulls play in the International Bowl. Whenever you hear the "Bulls on the Road" sound effect. Be the 12th caller at 783-WECK, 783-9325.

Good Morning Buffalo: Calleri at the Movies

Michael Calleri's weekly movie reviews: Milk and more....

GMB: Alan Pergament

The Buffalo News TV Columnist talks about the year on the tube.

GMB: Queen City Roller Derby!

Jessica from the Queen City Roller Girls talks about the series at Rainbow Rink in N-T. Girl Power!

Hometown News: Icy Morning Drive

The morning commute was a slippery trip today, as a thin ice layer sent cars spinning on numerous area roads. State Police reported that at least two accidents snarled traffic on the 190, at least six vehicles went off the road on the Scajaquada, an accident slowed traffic on the inbound Kensington, and a car was sideswiped right outside our studios on Genesee Street in Cheektowaga.

HTN: Clock Ticking on Indian Taxes

Governor David Paterson now has just ten days to decide what to do about collecting cigarette taxes from Indian reservations. The State Assembly has sent the Governor a bill which requires the state to start collecting the money. The measure was passed back in August, but lawmakers held on to it so the Governor could have more time to try and negotiate a deal with the tribes. Now the clock is ticking on the bill that would effectively cut off the supply of cigarettes to Indian smoke shops if they refuse to pay taxes on sales to non-Native-Americans. The state is attempting to find ways to increase revenue to fill huge budget gaps, but the tribes say treaties dating back hundreds of years exempt them from paying.

HTN: Schools to Open Early Next September

Labor Day is typically the unofficial end of summer, but next year kids in New York State may already be back at school. That's because the holiday is as late as it can get, falling on September 7th, of 2009. Some hometown districts don't want to wait that long to get children back to class. So next year, school is set to begin the week before, and kids will get a three day weekend just a few days into the school year. Officials say waiting until the following week might put vacation days at risk or run the chance of not getting the required 180 school days in before the end of June.

HTN: API Adding Jobs in Cheektowaga, Arcade

Here's something you haven't heard a lot of lately. A company in Western New York adding jobs. But here it is. API Heat Transfer of Cheektowaga plans to add about 115 new jobs over the next four years as part of an 11-million dollar expansion at facilities in Cheektowaga and Arcade in Wyoming County. The company is adding more than 50-thousand square feet of production space and six-thousand square feet of administrative space at the two locations, with state help.

HTN: Elmwood Businesses Targeted by Anti-Gay Letters

The holidays are becoming less festive on Elmwood Avenue, as some businesses there are receiving unwanted "gifts." Owners have received anonymous letters threatening to boycott stores that support gay agendas. Businesses such as El Buen Amiga and Elmwood Farming got the letters, and their owners think an Artvoice listing of stores supporting the Gay Pride Center's discount shopping program incited the letters. The Elmwood Village Association has informed local politicians and continues to support the targeted businesses. The city Commission on Citizens Rights and Community Relations promises that should the letter-writer be identified, action will be taken.

Brad Riter: Interviews from Thursday Night

Tim Graham of ESPN.com made his weekly appearance and explains how the Bills can make the playoffs. Then we talk about things that can happen in reality. Former Sabres PR director and communications director Paul Wieland has a new book about the team available in time for Christmas. It's called "Then Perreault Said To Rico... The Best Buffalo Sabres Stories Ever Told" and is available in WNY bookstores and also online at Amazon.com. He joined my show for a lengthy interview and you can hear that here. (The beginning of the interview is missing.)

Reason with Scott Leffler

On the Thursday Edition, Scott talks about getting to DC for the Inauguration.

Hometown News: Schumer Slams "Cow Tax"

Senator Chuck Schumer says the EPA is looking to tax farmers for every dairy cow they own. The proposal has been dubbed the "cow tax" and would charge farmers 175 dollars annually for every dairy cow, and 87-dollars-50-cents for every beef cow. The ultimate goal is cleaner air. Cows produce methane, which, when combined with oxygen, creates carbon dioxide. The EPA says it is not proposing a cow tax, that it's just one of many ideas to be considered in the reduction of greenhouse gases in compliance with the Clean Air Act. Schumer wants even the idea of the cow tax taken off the table.

HTN: Alleged Cockfight Ring in Chautauqua County

Chautauqua County Sheriff's investigators have broken up a cockfight training ring after a month-long investigation. Deputies raided a house in Dunkirk Wednesday morning, wher more than 100 roosters were found in a basement and a backyard barn. Deputies arrested 74-year-old Concepcion Virella, who faces felony charges. Deputies think more people may be involved in the ring, saying some owners could live in Buffalo. Some of the roosters are reportedly worth between two and three-thousand dollars. The animals were humanely euthanized and an investigation continues.

HTN: Hit and Run Case in Court

Christopher Tulumello was in Buffalo City Court Wednesday afternoon. His attorneys asked Buffalo City Court Judge David Manz to postpone Tulumello's felony evidence hearing until January 8th, after a fatal accident on December 3rd that killed Amanda Knowlton and injured her son. Tulumello remains in jail in lieu of 500-thousand dollars bail. The 23-year-old Knowlton and her four-year-old son Isiah were struck after Tulumello stopped for a traffic light, then sped off, after first having weaved through many cars. Attorney Steve Boyd is representing the boy. Tulumello's been charged with vehicular assault, vehicular manslaughter, driving without insurance and without a license, and DUI.

Ask the Pro: Financial Hour

Mike Gimlin and Todd Miller address today's challenging economy: mutual funds vs. individual stocks.

Reason with Scott Leffler

Albany's "Gang of Three" throwing state government into disarray

Hometown News: UB Football Stays in Spotlight

The University at Buffalo Bulls are looking forward to the International Bowl in Toronto January 3rd against U-Conn. UB's John Fuller says tickets are a hot item on campus. The Bulls got ribbed a bit by David Letterman last night. The talk show host is an alumnus of Ball State, the school the Bulls beat in the MAC Championship game, so he took some good-natured shots on The Late Show.

HTN: Guilty Plea in Prostitution Case

A former State Supreme Court law clerk has avoided jail time by pleading guilty to charges of driving a prostitute across state lines. Prosecutors say that 61-year-old Michael Stebick drove the undocumented alien from Hamburg to Kentucky in a motor home as part of a 2005 excursion for a group known as the Royal Order of Jesters. A federal judge says the woman was put up in a hotel room with a sign reading 70-dollars-per hour. Defense Attorney Joel daniels says his client had been respected in the community.
Stebick was sentenced to four months of house arrest, two years probation, fines and community service.

HTN: Orange Seats for Sale?

If you missed out on the auction to buy blue seats from the Aud, you may have a chance at oranges. The City of Buffalo says sales of the lower tier seats went so well, that they are considering a plan to auction off some of the arena's balcony seats. The first auction raked in more than 300-thousand dollars. A decision on selling the orange seats will be made by the end of the month.

Aud Demolition Set

HTN: A new contract for the demolition of the Aud has been approved by the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corp. DEMCO Inc. was the third-lowest bidder, but got the job after the two-lowest pulled out because of to the shrinking of scrap steel. A approval clears the way to bulldoze the downtown Buffalo landmark. DEMCO gets one-point-64-million dollars, plus another 97-thousand to preserve Aud facade elements to be used as a memorial to the 68-year-old building. DEMCO could get up to one-point-97-million, still two-million under the previously projected demolition cost. DEMCO has handled several difficult and high-profile demolition jobs in the past, including Miami's Orange Bowl. The Aud's demise makes way for the 150-thousand-square-foot Bass Pro store which will anchor the harbour center.

HTN: Fatal Accident in Cheektowaga

A section of Genesee Street near our Cheektowaga studios was closed down this morning after an accident that killed a town resident. Police say a car driven by 23-year-old David Cramer of Buffalo struck 53-year-old Paul Albano as he was trying to cross Genesee near Vegola shortly after 6 A.M. Dark and rainy conditions may have contributed to the crash. Albano, who was on his way to work at the time, was pronounced dead at the scene. Cramer was charged with driving with a suspended license.

Brad Riter Show

More Audio from Monday 12/8:

Brown 1 (first few minutes of segment 1 are missing.) 2 3 4 5 6

UB men's basketball coach Reggie Witherspoon 1 2

Good Morning Buffalo: DWI Legalities

WECK's Legal Expert Jeff Santoro talked with Loraine O'Donnell and Tom Donahue this morning.

Good Morning Buffalo: Tabloid Tuesday

Loraine O'Donnell and Tom Donahue talk trash with Lisa Ludwig

Hometown News: Fatal Olean Fire

An investigation into the cause of a late Sunday fire that has apparently killed two children and charred two homes continues. Olean Fire and Police officials say the remains of one child have been recovered, while a second is still missing and presumed dead. The children were one-and-a-half and three-years-old, but it was unclear which one was found. A badly-burned adult male was taken to Olean General Hospital and then flown to the Erie County Medical Center. A man and three children occupied a first-floor apartment at the Second Street home. One of those children, a four-year-old, was able to escape uninjured. Those living in a second-floor apartment all escaped unharmed. Residents of the home next door were evacuated when the fire spread from the first home. One woman had to be taken to Olean General Hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation. Two firefighters and a police officer suffered minor injuries.

HTN: Gurtler Pleads Guilty

Prosecutors say John Gurtler and his son have pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct charges in connection with an underage drinking party at Gurtler's Orchard Park home. The pair have been issued conditional discharges. Police say a prom night party in June at the home of the former sports announcer hosted widespread underage drinking.

HTN: County Budget Battle

Erie County Executive Chris Collins says property taxes are going up, even if the legislature allows his vetoes of additional spending to stand. Collins cut about 30 items he considered, "politics and pork barrel spending." But Legislator Lynn Marinelli says she and her colleagues are standing up for their constituents. If Collins' vetoes stand, property taxes will go up three-point-six-percent, or 18 dollars on 100-thousand of assessed home value. If the vetoes are overriden, Collins says that amount increase to 24 dollars. Lawmakers vote this afternoon.

HTN: Sabres for Sale?

The Buffalo Sabres are denying reports that the team is up for sale. Western New York Hockey will publish a story Thursday that says ownership is speaking with prospective buyers. Magazine publisher Steve Manson stands behind the story, broken by veteran hockey writer Jim Kelley.

Yesterday, Sabres Managing Partner Larry Quinn said the team was not negotiating a sale, and that no consideration would be given to any buyer who would move the team away from Buffalo. Sabres Chief Operating Officer Daniel DiPofi also said that under no circumstances will the team team move out of Buffalo.

Reason with Scott Leffler

Do the punishments fit the crimes? OJ, Plaxico, Sean Avery. (1 hr)

Brad Riter Show: Jim Kelley on the Sabres for Sale

Brad spoke with veteran hockey writer Jim Kelley about Kelley's story that the Sabres were being actively shopped.

Buffalo Irish Radio

From Sunday 12/07/08 (1 hr)

Buffalo Style - 12/6/08

Christina Abt presents some unique Buffalo-centric ideas for holiday shopping. (1 hr)

HTN: Niagara U Official Arrested for DWI

The director of admissions for Niagara University has been arrested for allegedly driving at nearly two-and-a-half times the legal limit for DWI. Niagara County Sheriff's Office says 39-year-old Harry Gong was pulled over Thursday night in Lewiston, failed three field sobriety tests, nearly fell over and didn't know where he was.

HTN: Seneca Home Invasion

Erie County authorities are searching for two masked gunmen allegedly responsible for a home invasion on the Seneca Nation Reservation in the Town of Brant. Sheriffs say the suspects tied up three adults at the Richardson Road home early Sunday. The men were reportedly armed with automatic rifles and demanded money and drugs. Authorities say the gunmen forced four children into a bedroom before using duct tape to subdue the three adults, then took cash and jewelry and fled in a maroon Chevy Suburban.

HTN: Caroline for Senate?

Several media reports state that Caroline Kennedy has spoken with Governor David Paterson about taking over Hillary Clinton's seat in the U.S. Senate. In recent years, JFK's daughter has been active in New York City educational causes. She also played an advisory role in Barack Obama's campaign, working on the team that advised Obama on his vice-presidential choice. The President-elect has not commented on the idea of Ms. Kennedy filling Ms. Clinton's seat. Obama told NBC's "Meet the Press," quote, "The last thing I want to do is get involved in New York politics." He did call Kennedy one of his dearest friends.

Hometown News: County Budget Battle

Legislators passed a budget for Erie County last week, but County Executive Chris Collins is not pleased and plans to issue vetoes today, with legislators attempting an override them tomorrow. Lawmakers restored funding to several quality-of-life, cultural, and youth programs, while cutting over five-point-two-million dollars from the county's vehicle use funds. Collins put that revenue in the overall general budget, but the legislators have reallocated it to the Erie County Clerk's office. The final property tax rate for 2009 is scheduled to be set this Thursday.

HTN: Report Says Sabres are for Sale

One day after the Bills-Dolphins game in Toronto, amid continuing questions about the NFL's future in Buffalo, now there are reports regarding our other major sports franchise. Several media outlets are reporting that the Sabres could be for sale. Managing Partner Larry Quinn says there are no negotiations occurring, and that the organization will never entertain discussions to move the team out of Buffalo.

Reason with Scott Leffler

The Bills in Toronto, and Caroline Kennedy for U.S. Senate. Monday Monday.

Good Morning Buffalo: Bills Recap

WECK's Joe Major talks with Loraine O'Donnell and Tom Donahue about another depressing Sunday....

Hometown News: OJ Sentence Could Top 30 Years

O.J. Simpson has been sentenced to prison. Simpson's attorney says the minimum sentence is likely to be nine years if paroled, but the maximum could exceed 30. His sentencing in Las Vegas today stems from his conviction from storming into a hotel room and snatching sports memorabilia he claimed belonged to him. The former Buffalo Bill spoke briefly during his hearing, tearfully pleading his case.

Good Morning Buffalo: TWC Starting News Channel

Robin Wolfgang from Time-Warner talked with Loraine O'Donnell and Tom Donahue about the company's new venture.

Brad Riter Show: Wed 12/3

Turner Gill 1 2

Paul Peck

Jim McNally

Scott Wilson/Bills Truth Dectector 1 2 3 4 5

BREAKING NEWS: OJ Sentenced to 15 Years Max

O.J. Simpson has been sentenced to a maximum of 15 years in prison. Simpson was found guilty in the armed robbery of two sports memorabilia collectors at the Palace Station hotel and casino. The former Buffalo Bill spoke briefly during his sentencing hearing today in Las Vegas, tearfully pleading his case.

Hometown News: Boy Scout Saves Cemetery

Nichols School sophomore and Boy Scout Joshua Finkelstein will be presented the Jewish Federation's Special Recognition Award. The Troop 156 member initiated a cleanup of Beth Jacob Cemetery for his Eagle Scout Leadership Project. His father, scoutmaster Dr. Mark Finkelstein worked on the cleanup as well. Josh accepted the award at the Federation's annual meeting in the Jewish Community Center's Benderson Building in Getzville last night. The cleanup efforts began last summer and brought out dozens of volunteers from congregants of neighboring churches and temples, as well as Federation board members, who trimmed trees, removed overgrown brush, and picked up garbage. The group also managed to raise and repair several broken headstones, and will finish the project in the near future by installing a new fence. Joshua will complete the Eagle Scout project by taking photos, documenting each gravestone, and transcribing those in Hebrew for the cemetery's records.

HTN: OJ Sentencing Today

O.J. Simpson is about to find out just how much time he'll spend in prison. His sentencing on kidnapping, robbery and other charges stemming from a sports memorabilia heist is underway in Las Vegas. The former Buffalo Bill could get anywhere from six years to life. Prosecutors are asking for 18 years, while Simpson's defense team is hoping for the minimum of six years.

Reason with Scott Leffler

Expat sportswriter Ernie Green, and looking for a hotel at the Inauguration. The Friday Edition.

Good Morning Buffalo: Calleri at the Movies

Michael Calleri's weekly recap of what's on local screens.

Near Miss for UB vs U-Conn

Play-by-play man Josh Whetzel has a recap of Thursday night's game, as the Bulls came within a whisker of shocking the world.

Reason with Scott Leffler - Thu 12/4

Dental floss and the bird wars....one of the more eclectic editions...

Hometown News: Fatal Hit and Run Arrest

A 21-year-old Amherst man was arraigned Thursday morning after a tragic hit and run crash that killed a young Buffalo mother and injured her child. Christopher Tulumello turned himself in and was charged with vehicular manslaughter, vehicular assault, and DWI. Bail was set at $500,000. Defense Attorney Joel Daniels is representing Tulumello. The accident happened around 8:30 pm Wednesday, when 23-year-old Amanda Knowlton was crossing the street at Main and LaSalle with her son. Police say Tulumello sped around several cars, hit the mother and sideswiped the child. Police tracked down Tulumello's truck at an Amherst gas station where it was impounded.

HTN: Falls Officer Arrested

A Niagara Falls police officer has been arrested on charges he bought drugs while on duty and forced women into sex. Federal authorities say 27-year-old Ryan Warme's alleged actions include buying cocaine while in uniform two to five times a week from drug dealers. He is also accused of raping two women and threatening to kill one of the victims. Warme has pleaded not guilty and is being held pending a detention hearing on December 15th.

HTN: Unsafe Toys this Christmas

The New York Public Interest Group wants you to check your holiday list twice to make sure dangerous toys are ruled out. Tracy Shelton with NYPIRG says the group has released it's list of toys which pose choking or chemical hazards. NYPIRG says secret Santas should stay away from the Pony Land scented pony, Littlest Pet Shop Sportiest play pack, the WALL-E Leapster2, and the Disney Fairies Fold-out Chair and Sleeping Pad. The group says toxic chemicals also are a problem, finding a third of the more than 15-hundred toys tested contained high chemical levels. However, the Toy Industry Association calls the report misleading. NYPIRG wants parents to research the toys before they allow their kids to play with them.

HTN: Suing the State over Business Grants

The case of a Western New York citizen who's suing the state over the practice of handing out economic development grants to corporations is heard at State Supreme Court in Albany. Plaintiff's attorney James Ostrowski says the state constitution expressly prohibits the state giving private entities money. Ostrowski says if the lawsuit is successful, it would mark the end of corporate welfare in New York. A motion to dismiss from the defendants was argued Wednesday. The judge in the case has not made a decision on the motion.

HTN: Just Pizza not just in Buffalo?

A Buffalo-based pizzeria chain may be adding locations in Florida and Las Vegas. Locally, Just Pizza operates eleven Western New York locations, plus two satellite "express" locations in downtown Buffalo. The chain has had previous interest from metro areas such as Chicago, San Antonio, and North Carolina. Former Buffalo residents will run the Sarasota and Las Vegas locations, after receiving training here. A new location in Hamburg and a three-year deal with the Buffalo Sabres to sell at HSBC Arena have just been sealed. Just Pizza was founded in 1992.

HTN: First Night Tickets on Sale

The countdown to First Night began Wednesday morning, when details about the 20th annual event were announced. The Buffalo Convention Center will host drug-and-alcohol-free First Night on December 31st from 5 to 10 p.m. New to the lineup are performances by the New England Trampoline Company and the PUSH Physical Theatre. Ticketsto all rides, games, and attractions, are on sale now for eight dollars at all local Wegmans markets, and will be ten dollars at the door. Children two and under are free. Fernbach, Main Place Mall, and Turner ramps will provide free parking.

Brad Riter Show

Audio from Tuesday 12/2/08

Bob Gaughan

Tim Graham

Reason with Scott Leffler 12/3

Scott talks with callers about gun control and the Constitution.

Good Morning Buffalo: Switching to Digital TV

Technology writer John Quain talks about the switch to D-TV.

John's website: http://www.j-q.com/

GMB: Bryski on Politics

Dr. Bruce Bryski from Buff State talks about Obama's Cabinet picks including Hillary Clinton for Secretary of State.

Hometown News: Casino Layoffs

Seneca Gaming has announced the layoff of 210 employees, blaming a worsening economy. The pink slips affect all three of the company's casinos: Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and Salamanca. Seneca Gaming also called for a salary freeze for employees making over 70-thousand-dollars-a-year, suspended yearly bonuses, and is reducing salaries for senior managers and company directors. Seneca Gaming Chairman and Seneca Nation President Barry Snyder said net revenues have dropped over the last several months, both locally and throughout the gambling industry. Some of the country's biggest casinos have reported dismal earnings and announced cutbacks. The company has also suspended work on expansion projects in Buffalo and Salamanca. The company operated 65-hundred slot machines, 140 table games, 800 hotel rooms, and many other amenities as of late August.

HTN: Guilty Pleas in Election Case

Former West Seneca Supervisor Paul Clark has pleaded guilty to misdemeanor violations of election laws. Clark has admitted to not reporting thousands of dollars in contributions and payments from his 2007 campaign for County Executive. Businessman Roger Peck also pleaded guilty in connection with the payments. Prosecutors say Clark did not report ten-thousand dollars in contributions from Peck. That money went to pay a third man, who ran a website disparaging to Clark's political opponent. The DA's office does not expect the men to serve any jail time, and have agreed to drop felony charges.

HTN: Why did Psych Patient Go Missing?

The state Office of Mental Health wants to know how a violent patient went missing from the Buffalo Psychiatric Center. 54-year-old Stephen Moore wandered off the grounds last Tuesday. He was found about 24 hours later on or near the grounds of the facility. Assemblyman Sam Hoyt, whose district includes the Psych Center, wants a report within two weeks so that security concerns can be addressed. Moore was institutionalized for life after decapitating an elderly woman 25 years ago.

HTN: Trees to Families Overseas

Christmas tree farms across Western New York and across the country are pitching in to bring a little holiday cheer to military families here and abroad. Forty-six local trees are going out to military families across the country, while trees from Ohio and Indiana are already on their way to Iraq and other overseas destinations. The Trees for Troops program started in 2005 with the help of Federal Express. Since the program began, over 34-thousand trees have been distributed to families on 40 bases in 17 countries. This year, the program hopes to deliver over 16-thousand trees to 45 U.S. and overseas military bases.

BuffaloStyle 11/29/08

Christina Abt interviews members of the Old Tyme Hockey League at the new East Aurora Skating Rink. (1 hr)

Buffalo Irish Radio 11/30/08

Hosted by Tom Callahan: Audio (1 hr)

Brad Riter: Ruben Brown Show 12/1/08

Segment 1 Segment 2 Segment 3 Segment 4 Segment 5 Segment 6

Reason with Scott Leffler

Hillary's vacant seat and the pork lawsuit - 12/02/08

Hometown News: Collins Battles Lawmakers over Budget

The Erie County Legislature yesterday voted 11-4, mostly along party lines, to approve an amended 2009 budget that eliminates County Executive Chris Collins' proposed property tax and gives more money to culturals. The margin is large enough to override vetoes by Collins, but he says he'll take his pen to funding restorations nonetheless.

HTN: Moulds Cleared in Chippewa Case

Police have cleared former Bills receiver Eric Moulds in connection to an incident outside of Liars nightclub on Chippewa Friday morning. A 30-year-old man reported being assaulted outside the bar, allegedly by Moulds. Witnesses and Moulds talked with police, who now confirm that Moulds was there, but not involved.

HTN: Toronto Businessman Behind Bills Series is Dead

The man behind the move of eight Bills games to Toronto has died just five days before the first regular-season game in the Rogers Centre. Ted Rogers passed away early today after suffering from congestive heart failure for the past few years. Under his leadership, Rogers Communications became a North American leader in wireless, cable, publishing, and broadcasting. The company also owned the Toronto Blue Jays. Rogers ranked second on Canadian Business magazine's list of 100 richest in Canada last year.

Reason with Scott Leffler - Monday 12/1

Scott talks with sports reporter Tim Schmitt about the Bills and Sabres, and discusses the store trampling in New Jersey.

GMB: Michael Calleri at the Movies

A special Monday edition of WECK's weekly movie show after the holiday weekend.

Good Morning Buffalo: Brad Riter Sports Monday

Brad talks about another Bills loss with Loraine O'Donnell and Tom Donahue; wishes there was another topic....

UB Football: Brad Riter with Warde Manuel

Brad Riter spoke with UB Athletic Director Warde Manuel during halftime of the UB/Kent State football game. Here's the link.

Bills Lose to Niners

The Bills blew a chance to keep their playoff chances alive on a dreary day in Orchard Park. WECK's Joe Major has the recap from the Ralph.

The Bills remembered Tim Russert before Sunday's game. The late NBC host now has a place of honor at Ralph Wilson Stadium, as Tim Russert Plaza was dedicated in front of the stadium's main gates. Russert's family was on hand as the Bills called him one of their biggest fans.

Former Bill Accused in Assault

A Buffalo man told police he was punched by a former Buffalo Bill. The player allegedly involved is former receiver Eric Moulds, who played for the Bills for ten years. The alleged victim is a 30-year-old man who was on Chippewa Street early Friday morning. He was treated for facial injuries at the VA Hospital.

Hometown News: Hillary Picked for State

In a press conference this morning, President-elect Barack Obama announced his picks for his National Security team. He began by announcing his choice of New York Senator Hillary Clinton for Secretary of State.

Legislature to Vote on County Budget

County Legislators will convene within the hour to vote on the 2009 budget. The Democratic majority says it will eliminate County Executive Chris Collins' proposed property tax increase, cutting the budget by $8 million dollars to hold the line on taxes. Collins blasted the Democrats for "political gimmicks that shift problems into the future."

Infant Injured in Dog Attack

A three-month-old boy was attacked Sunday afternoon by a Bull Terrier. The boy reportedly suffered injuries from his chest all the way down to his lower abdomen. Tonawanda Police said he underwent emergency surgery at Buffalo Women and Children's Hospital and was transferred to the ICU. The SPCA currently has the dog and another pit bull from the home in custody.

Good Morning Buffalo 11/28/08 - Joe Major

Sports Reporter Joe Major's preview of the Bills-49ers this Sunday

Audio: http://www.weck1230.com/GMB/MajorBills.mp3

Good Morning Buffalo 11/28/08 - Brad Riter

Brad talks with Loraine O'Donnell and Tom Donahue about the MAC East Champion UB Bulls before their home finale vs. Kent State Friday afternoon.

audio: http://www.weck1230.com/GMB/RiterUB.mp3

New Audio from Brad Riter Show

Turner Gill: 1 2 3

John Corto: 1 2 3

Ruben Brown: Segment 1 Segment 2 Segment 3 Segment 4 Segment 5 Segment 6 Segment 7

Reason With Scott Leffler 11/26/08

Scott's not happy about stores that are open on Thanskgiving.... (1 hr)

Audio: http://www.weck1230.com/Scott/reason112608.mp3

The Financial Hour - 11/26/08

Money advice in a tough econony from Mike Gimlin and Todd Miller (1 hr)

Audio: http://www.weck1230.com/AskThePro/FinancialHour111908.mp3

Mayor Brown in the Running for US Senate

A recent online poll shows Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown is fifth in the running among New Yorkers as a possible U.S. Senate replacement for Hillary Clinton. If Brown had six-percent of the vote yesterday afternoon in the online poll conducted by Albany-based newspaper the "Business Review." The newspaper reports that Attorney General Andrew Cuomo is the frontrunner in their poll, followed by Congresswoman Kirsten Gillbrand, Caroline Kennedy, environmentalist Robert Kennedy Jr., Mayor Brown, Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi, and Congresswoman Nita Lowey.

Warnings About Gift Cards

Buyer beware when it comes to store gift cards. State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli says with the current economy, gift cards may not be worth anything. He says shoppers need to think about stores closing in the area or even bankrupt, saying gift card sales may be suspended when that happens. DiNapoli says that if you still want to purchase cards, buy them at stores you can be sure won't be going out of business soon. Gift cards may also start to lose value, or expire if not used for a period of time. Check the fine print.

Audio: http://www.osc.state.ny.us/press/releases/nov08/giftcards.mp3

Big Lottery Winner in WNY

A Cheektowaga woman was introduced yesterday as a big winner in the New York Lottery. Carolyn Blackmon hit a million-dollar jackpot on a scratch-off lottery ticket she bought at the Kwik Fill Red Apple store at Harlem Road and Cleveland Drive on Nov. 3. The million will be paid out over 20 years, about $34,000 annually after taxes. The big hit came on the "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" game.

Tricky Weather for Thanksgiving

A lake effect snow warning is in effect for Southern Erie, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and McKean Counties until 6 a.m. Thursday. Lake effect snow bands are expected to form southeast of Lake Erie, bringing with it heavy snow to the Southern Tier. Six to eight inches of snow is possible today, with as much as ten inches possible at higher elevations through Thanksgiving Day. Expect slippery roads and white-out conditions with the lake effect bands. WeatherBug senior meteorologist Steve Princivalli says a powerful storm near the Great Lakes will hamper pre-Thanksgiving travel across the Northeast.

Cracking Down on Water Deadbeats

The Buffalo Public Works Department is stepping up enforcement against residents who illegally turn their water back on, after having it shut down because of failure to pay. The City says it will install concrete plugs in service boxes to prevent residents from illegally re-activating their water. A report showed that 18-percent of homes which have had water service terminated were found to have illegally turned it back on.

Common Council OKs Union Deal

The Buffalo Common Council is expected to give the green light today for new contract with the city's blue-collar workers' union. The nine-year deal includes raises averaging 20-percent. The workers, who collect trash, clean streets and maintain city buildings, have not had a raise in the past eight years. The new contract goes back to 2002 but pay raises would not be retroactively effective until July 2007. Majority Leader Richard Fontana says considering it is a nine-year deal, it is just over two-percent per year. The control board still has to sign off on the deal at their meeting on December 17th.

City Hall and Cable Company Settle Dispute

Time Warner Cable and the Buffalo Common Council have reached a deal on overdue cable TV bills. The company has agreed to waive monthly fees for cable hookups in council member offices, and eliminate about five thousand dollars in back payments. The controversy began when the company started charging council members for service, even though most don't have TVs in their offices. When the city refused payment, Time Warner changed its policy and now says it will continue the service for free.

Blue Print for Buffalo-Niagara

Local leaders from the Buffalo Niagara region say they've found a way to help the state get out of financial crisis. Their "blueprint" includes expanding the University of Buffalo by 2020. That plan is considered "the future of the Buffalo Niagara Region." Business leaders are saying the plan is a good thing, since it won't require state money to complete. UB is looking to be able to establish their own tuition policies, and approval of the move would cost the state nothing.

HWI Chairman Remembered

Friends and family say goodbye to Donald and Victoria Hess this weekend. Mr. Hess was the chairman of Hauptman-Woodward Research Institute. The Hesses died last Thursday when the small plane Mr. Hess was piloting crashed in a residential area in Tallahassee, Florida. The memorial service for the Clarence couple is Saturday at 11:30 a.m. at HWI on the Buffalo Medical Campus.

Oprchard Park Company Cuts Jobs

Orchard Park-based Minrad International is eliminating 50 jobs, because of low cash flow and just-posted third-quarter losses of eleven-million dollars. The company will cut 35-percent of its company's workforce. Minrad's stock closed Thursday at just nine-cents-a-share, down 97-percent from a year ago.

Thuway Toll Move Proposed Again

A draft report by the State Thruway Authority calls for a retooling of the highway's toll collection system, including the recommendation that the Williamsville and Lackawanna barriers be moved to eliminate tolls in metro Buffalo. The state appears to be lacking the funds to implement the plan, which would cost over a billion dollars statewide. Thomas Pericak, Buffalo Division Director, says it's not the same proposal that stalled before.

Hillary Headed to State Dept.?

The word is getting out that Hillary Clinton will be introduced as President-elect Obama's choice for Secretary of State shortly after Thanskgiving. The two met last week to discuss the position, and the Senator has emerged as the likely choice since then. Ms. Clinton was in New York City last night, but volleyed away a question about her job prospects.

DOT Drivers Ready for Winter

New York State Department of Transportation spokesman Peter Van Keuren says the agency's fleet of trucks is now ready for the worst of what winter has to offer. Van Keuren says all trucks have had their dispensers calibrated, and trucks won't be allowed to idle when crews are taking breaks. Diesel fuel prices have dropped along with gasoline, so but the cost of road salt has risen 30 to 35 percent on average.

New Yorkers Support Hillary for State Dept.

A Marist Poll released Wednesday indicates that 55-percent of New Yorkers want to see President-elect Barack Obama appoint Senator Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State. Thirty-one-percent oppose the choice. With Clinton considered the top candidate, the names of several prominent New York lawmakers are being floated as her successor in the U.S. Senate. State Attorney General Andrew Cuomo is mentioned, along with Big Apple Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Congressman Brian Higgins, and Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown.

Statler Deal Scuttled

A 3-point-five million deal to sell the Statler has fallen through. Howard Hurst and Greystone Development Partners have scuttled a deal with British businessman Bashar Issa, saying that Issa continuously renegotiated the purchase and sale agreement, making it impossible to finalize the purchase.

Sportswriter Dies from Injuries

Buffalo News sportswiter Tom Borelli has died from injuries he suffered in a fall at All-High Stadium on November 8th. Borrelli passed away overnight at ECMC, where he had been hospitalized in critical condition since the incident. Sports Editor Howard Smith said there were encouraging signs until just recently.

Massage Parlor Owner Sentenced

The woman accused of recruiting as prostitutes at her four local massage parlors was sentenced to a six-year prison term today. 45-year-old Len-Wah Chong owned massage parlors in Niagara and Erie Counties.

City Blue-Collar Raises Coming

City blue-collar workers in Buffalo will get 20-percent raises under a contract deal struck at City Hall. The workers, who collect trash, plow streets and maintain buildings, haven't seen any increases since 2001. Pay raises would be applied retroactive to 2007. The union has scheduled a ratification vote for later today. The plan still needs the go-ahead from the Common Council and the control board.

NFTA Raising Fares, Rochester Dropped Them

A tale of two transit authorities. The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority says it didn't want to raise fares, but as it faces a possible 16-million dollars in revenue losses, a fare hike looks to be the only way out. A pair of 25-cent increases will take effect in 2009, raising the cost of a MetroBus or MetroRail ride to two-dollars. The Rochester Regional Transit System, however, is taking the opposite approach. It has lowered fares to just a dollar, and is attracting more riders.

Albany Session Fails

With the effort to rein-in New York's deficit through yesterday's special session dashed, Governor Paterson will meet this afternoon behind closed doors with House and Senate Democratic leaders to plead his case for the federal government's help in solving the state's fiscal woes. Yesterday, the Governor admitted that further State action will have to wait until he presents a new budget in December.

Bills Lose Another MNF Heartbreaker

The Browns made a long field goal, and the Bills missed one. That was the difference on Monday Night Football. But it wasn't the whole story. WECK's Joe Major has our recap:

http://www.weck1230.com/News/Major111808.mp3

Buckle Up New York Resumes

Law enforcement agencies across New York state have launched a seat belt enforcement campaign. State Police, sheriff's departments, and local police agencies started the two-week 'zero tolerance' enforcement effort Monday. The campaign will continue through November 30th. with safety restraint checkpoints. During last year's "Buckle Up New York" police issued more than 45-thousand tickets.

Frozen Meal Recall

Nestle is recalling frozen chicken meals that could contain "foreign materials." The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service announced the recall of Stouffer's Asian Style Pot Stickers on Monday. One person reported an injury after finding small pieces of plastic. For a link to a list of the recalled products, log on to http://www.weck1230.com

Bills and Browns on MNF

The Buffalo Bills are in the national spotlight tonight as the Bills get the Monday night game against Cleveland. Both teams are trying to stop three game losing streaks and break out of mid-season slumps. Buffalo had won five of the first six games, but hit the skids, now at 5-and-4. The Browns also are trying to get back in the win column, standing at 3-and-6. Brad Riter broadcasts live from the Big Tree Inn tonight ast 5.

Arrest in Murder-Suicide

An arrest has been made in a Niagara Falls murder-suicide. The sister of the suspect has been charged with hindering prosecution. Authorities say 32-year-old Valerie Holliday knew exactly where her brother, Charles Holliday was, on both the day he shot his wife and the day he killed himself in an Amherst motel room. Cops say she refused to give up his location. On November 1st, Charles is alleged to have shot his wife Amy. Police say Valerie Holliday then helped her brother elude arrest by having a friend secure a motel room, where he shot himself two days later.

Casino Opponents File Follow-Up Motion

Opponents of the Seneca's downtown casino say the National Indian Gaming Commission is ignoring a federal judge's ruling that gambling there is illegal. Cornelius Murray, lawyer for Citizens against Casino Gambling in Erie County, has filed a motion before Judge William Skretny, saying it's time to shut down the casino:

http://www.weck1230.com/News/Murray1.mp3

Mayor Brown, County Executive Collins, and Congressman Higgins have all come out in favor of the casino, but Murray says the reasoning of government officials is flawed:

http://www.weck1230.com/News/Murray1.mp3

UB Wins, Now Bowl-Eligible

The University of Buffalo Bulls came out on top of Akron, 43-40 after four overtimes Thursday night to claim their fourth consecutive victory. UB improves to 6-and-4, with a 4-and-2 record in the MAC, where they are now in first place in the East Division all by themselves. UB ended the game in the fourth overtime after a mishandled handoff by Akron gave A.J. Principe the opportunity for a 40-yard field goal.

http://www.weck1230.com/News/UBAkron.mp3

The Bulls ended the game with 476 total yards. UB is at Bowling Green next, the Friday after Thanksgiving.

Two Suspicious Fires in Lovejoy

Two fires in Buffalo's Lovejoy neighborhood last night, just blocks away from one another. A fire at Broadway and Ogden was already in progress when reports of another blaze on Reiman Street came in. That house was fully engulfed by the time firefighters arrived, with live power lines sparking nearby. No one was home and no one was injured in the Reiman Street blaze. The Reiman Street fire caused an estimated 70-thousand dollars in damages and the Broadway and Ogden fire caused a reported 35-thousand in damage. The Buffalo Fire Marshal's Office has ruled both blazes suspicious.

Buffalo School Board Considers Closings

The Buffalo Board of Education heard "emphatic and often eloquent requests" by a student and a board member, as well as numerous parents, to keep open two of five schools proposed to be closed. Poplar Academy, Community School 53, the Dr. Charles R. Drew Science Magnet-Zoo Site, Days Park Bilingual Early Childhood Center and Montessori School 78 are still slated to have their door closed for good. Community meetings will be held, and the board will make its final decision soon.

Aud Demolition May Need to be Renegotiated

On the weekend of the Aud auction at the Convention Center, The demolition of the building may have hit a snag: Ontario Specialty Contractors, the company that was selected to tear down the Aud to make was for a new Bass Pro store, is bringing up concerns about the price it can get for scrap metal that it removes from the building. President Jon Williams says the price of scrap has decreased dramatically, by about ten percent. Williams is also worried about whether dealers who would buy it could line up the credit needed to do so. There's no contract yet with the state agency in charge of the Inner Harbor project, Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation. Williams says he now wants to renegotiate. Mid-December would now be the earliest start date, compared to a late November date projected earlier, with demolition then completed by spring 2009. Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown hopes the demolition will stay on track.

Accomplice Pleads Guilty in Ex-Bill's Case

A man accused of assisting a former Bills player in a tax scheme pleaded guilty yesterday. 42-year-old Darryle Buckner accepted four counts including conspiracy. Buckner says that he and Holmes, now residents of Pasadena, California, helped four associates to file false tax returns. Charges against Holmes, who played fullback for the Bills from 1995-98, are still pending.

Parents Offer Reward for Son's Killer

The parents of a young murder victim are offering a reward for help in finding his killer. Sandra and Wilbert Green are looking for information that helps solve the killing of their 21-year-old son, Corey, shot to death last November while riding his bike on Walden Avenue near Academy Road.

Culturals Face Cuts in County Budget

Taxpayers confronted county lawmakers Wednesday night in an effort to get answers in Erie County's fiscal crisis. Among the casualties may be the Cornell Cooperative Extension, and the county 4H program, along with the Penn Dixie Center. County aid to Buffalo tourism is also set to see the ax. Arts and cultural venues also stand to lose all county funding, including Shakespeare in the Park, whose Lisa Ludwig appeared on Good Morning Buffalo today: http://www.weck1230.com/News/Ludwig.mp3

County Budget Hearing Tonight

The Erie County Legislature holds a public hearing tonight on the proposed 2009 budget. The session starts at 5 p.m. at Old County Hall. Potential cutbacks to the cultural organizations will be on the agenda.

Paterson Unveils Budget Plan

Governor David Paterson held a press conference this morning, joined by State Budget Director Laura Anglin to present their proposal for next week's special legislative session. The state's 700 public school districts would lose $840 million in state aid and SUNY students would see a $300 tuition increase in January.

Higgins and Collins Support Casino

Two elected officials proclaimed their support of the downtown casino project yesterday. Congressman Brian Higgins and Erie County Executive Chris Collins told the tribe that it is time for the project to move forward. Higgins spoke with WECK's Scott Leffler this morning:
http://www.weck1230.com/News/Higgins.mp3

GOP May Boycott State Session

Governor Paterson has called a special legislature session for next week. But now there might be a wrench in the works. The man presumed to be the next State Senate Majority Leader, Democrat Malcolm Smith, was in Buffalo today at a Veterans' Day event, and addressed the potential problem, saying that Republicans may be threateninbg to boycott.

Higgins Promises to Look Into Gas Prices

Last week, the Triple-A announced that Western New York had the highest gas prices in the Continental U-S. Congressman Brian Higgins has promised to look into the situation. Gas prices were again higher in Western New York than anywhere else in the state Monday, according to Triple-A. The average for self-serve regular unleaded was two-77, while the statewide average was just two-62. The national average is now two-22.

Veterans' Day Ceremonies

Today is Veterans Day, and most banks and schools, along with local, state, and federal offices are closed. Among the commemorations today: the Veterans' Association and Ken-Ton School District's Lieutenant Harry Crosby memorial will be unveiled this afternoon at 2 at Crosby Field in Kenmore, and the rededication of the World War Two Monument in Tonawanda takes place this afternoon at 2 at Fisherman's Park on River Road.

Cheektowaga Board to Vote on Pay Cut

You've heard about Kevin Gaughan's efforts to downsize local governments. The Cheektowaga Town Board meets Wednesday wth another idea to save money. Council Members James Rogowski, Richard Zydel and Stanley Kaznowski have proposed rolling back their own pay by about 9%.

HSBC Gains Worldwide, Loses in US

HSBC says its worldwide profits were "ahead" of last year's results, but its U.S. business was hammered by bad debts. Buffalo-based HSBC Bank USA took higher losses on home equity loan delinquencies in the third quarter of 2008.

Two Killed in Town of Portland

A fatal accident this morning in the Town of Portland. A mother and her 10-year-old son were killed in a two-vehicle crash on Route 20 between Harmon Hill Road and Mill Street around 7 a.m. It was snowing in the area at the time, but it is not known yet if weather was a factor.

Former Falls Mayor in Court

Former Niagara Falls Mayor Vince Anello will appear in court this afternoon to answer felony charges stemming from a no-interest loan from Native American businessman "Smokin' Joe" Anderson. Anello could face up to 30 months or more in prison. Anderson took a plea deal and could get probation.

County Comptroller Sued by Construction Company

A local construction firm is suing the Erie County Comptroller's office. DiPizio Construction says it is owed over a million dollars. Owner Roseanne Lettieri says they haven't been paid since September 1st. The company is working on a project on Wehrle Drive. The State Supreme Court will hear the case.

Buffalo has Highest Gas Prices

A top ranking we'd rather not have: Buffalo now has the highest gas prices in the continental United States, according to the Triple-A. The average price of a gallon of regular is $2.85, well above the national average of $2.31. Regular gas in Rochester today averages $2.75. In Albany it's $2.55; in Syracuse, $2.50. Even New York City has a lower average price at $2.77.

Smokin' Joe Will Plead Guilty

Prominent Niagara County businessman "Smokin' Joe" Anderson is expected to plead guilty in a federal probe today. The Native-American entrepreneur is scheduled to appear in front of District Judge William Skretny in a case regarding business dealings with former Niagara Falls Mayor Vince Anello. No specifics of the agreement have been released.

Spitzer Off the Hook

Former Governor Eliot Spitzer will not face criminal charges in connection with the scandal that cost him his office. U.S. Attorney Michael Garcia of Manhattan announced that his office will not charge Spitzer in the break-up of a prostitution service he admitted to patronizing. Spitzer was investigated after authorities learned he had made questionable payments to a bank account that was being used to launder over one-million-dollars for the Emperors Club. Garcia's office uncovered no evidence of misuse of public or campaign funds, and says there is insufficient evidence to bring charges against Spitzer. Spitzer resigned shortly after his association with prostitutes was made public.

Fatal Shooting on West Side

A West Side man collapsed and died right outside his door after being shot yesterday on Busti Avenue. 27-year old Raquan Loyd was shot once in the heart and once in the leg just before 6 p-m. He went into cardiac arrest and was unable to be revived by emergency crews, authorities said. The West Side neighborhood has been the scene of several shootings in recent weeks, and city authorities had stepped up efforts to curb the violence.

Donovan Building Dismantling Approved

The City of Buffalo Planning Board approved a demolition plan for the Donovan State Office Building. Dismantling will begin early next year, for Erie Canal Harbor commercial redevelopment.

WNY Congressional Contests

Republicans are keeping the Congressional seat vacated by the retiring Thomas Reynolds. Chris Lee beat his rival Alice Kryzan with 55-percent of the vote. Incumbent Democrats Brian Higgins kept his seat, and Democrat Eric Massa knocked out Republican incumbent Randy Kuhl. Louise Slaughter took 78-percent of the vote to secure her seat in the 28th Congressional District. Her opponent, Republican David Crimmen walked away with 22-percent.

State Senate Shifts

The State Senate saw a dramatic shift on Election Night, as Democrats took control for the first time since 1965. Democrats now control both houses of the Legislature, the Governor's office, and the four other statewide elected office for the first time since 1935. Here in Western New York, the State Senate races did not turn out to be decisive in the statewide battle for control. Republican Mike Ranzenhofer retained the the 61st State Senate District for the Republicans, by barely defeating former boxer Joe Mesi. Incumbent Republican State Senator Dale Volker will keep his seat in the New York senate after beating his challenger Kathy Konst. And Democratic State Senator William Stachowski fended off a challenge from Republican rival Dennis Delano. Stachowski is now in line to take over the powerful position of Finance Committee Chairman, where he'll have a strong hand in the state budget:

Fatal Fire in Niagara County

A house was on Bishop Road in the Town of Hartland was in flames when the first crews arrived on scene last night. Three boys, ages 8, 6 and 5 died in the fire. The boys' grandmother was able to escape the flames.

WNY Key to State Senate Control

Control of the State Senate is up for grabs in three key local races: Democratic State Senator William Stachowski is hoping to fend off a strong challenge from Republican rival Dennis Delano. Republican Michael Razenhofer and Democrat Joseph Mesi are battling it out for an open seat. And longtime Republican incumbent Dale Volker leads Democratic challenger Kathy Konst in the polls.

Obama Leads in Buffalo Area

A "Buffalo Business First" computer analysis predicts that Barack Obama will beat John McCain by over 100-thousand votes in our region. Recent statewide poll numbers have shown Obama with a lead of 20 to 33 percentage points over his Republican contender.

South Buffalo Bridge Shut Down

A South Buffalo bridge has been shut down in what officials call a precautionary measure. The Hopkins Street Bridge was closed this morning until further notice as after a state inspection. The bridge is located near the Botanical Gardens, was built in the early 1980s. Senior City Engineer Don Poleto says it's a structural issue.

Alleged Falls Shooter Found Dead

A new development after a deadly domestic disturbance in the Falls. Amy Holliday was fatally shot in her Pershing Avenue home, at around 3:30 p.m. Saturday, in front of her mother and another family member. Now, Channel 2 is reporting that her estranged husband, Charles, has been found dead of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot.

State Senate Races Still Up in the Air

The final full day of campaigning before Tuesday's elections: Among the key local races are two State Senate contests: Republican Dennis Delano hopes to unseat Democrat William Stachowski, and Democrat Joe Mesi is running against the GOP's Michael H. Ranzenhofer. Mesi is spending the day hitting what he calls "17 towns in 17 hours." The latest Siena Poll shows the numbers shifting, with Stachowski and Ranzenhofer now leading.

Van Found, but Mother Still Missing

The vehicle belonging to a missing Jamestown-area woman has been found, but there's still no sign of her. 36-year-old Corrie Anderson has not been seen since she failed to pick up her child on Tuesday. Chautauqua County DA David Foley says that he does not think the woman would abandon her three children.

Kryzan on Second Ballot Line

Congressional candidate Alice Kryzan has won a second line on Tuesday's ballot battle against Republican Chris Lee. An appeals court decision removed Jon Powers from the Working Families Party line. Powers had ended his campaign and moved away since losing in the Democratic primary.

Golisano and Elections Commissioners Battle

The dispute betwen Tom Golisano and the Board of Elections is throwing off sparks. The Sabres owner is calling for the removal of Republican Ralph Mohr and Democrat Dennis Ward, accusing them of overstepping their powers investigating Golisano's political action committee. A heated public exchange happened between Golisano and Mohr this afternoon, at the board of elections office.

Job Losses Looming at Dunlop

Pink slips may be coming to the Dunlop tire plant in the Town of Tonawanda. The company says at least 100 layoffs may be needed as the result of production cuts in car and truck tires. Dunlop officials say buyouts will be offered first, and then layoffs would begin December 1st if needed.

Jamestown Woman Missing

State Police are investigating the disappearance of a 36-year-old woman near Jamestown. Corrie Anderson of Asheville was last seen Tuesday afternoon at a car dealership in Jamestown. Police say she missed several appointments after that and failed to pick up her son from school.

Guilty Plea in UB Beating

A former University of Buffalo student has pleaded guilty to his role in stomping another student, who now remains paralyzed. Twenty-three-year-old Kevin Rowland admitted to taking part in the beating of Michael Bliss last March 22nd in a parking lot on Main Street. The plea is contingent upon Rowland testifying against his co-defendant, 22-year-old Charles Jordan, who faces attempted murder charges. Rowland could face eight years behind bars when sentenced in January.

Lawyer and Wife Killed in Crash

Celebrated Buffalo lawyer John Conden and his wife Joan were killed yesterday afternoon in a car accident that tied up traffic in the town of Hamburg. Investigators say the couple died after their car was hit by a van at the intersection of South Park Avenue and Sowles Road just after 12:30pm. The other driver, 82-year-old Stanley Jedrysik of Hamburg, was taken to ECMC with a head injury. He is charged with running a red light, reckless driving, imprudent speed and not wearing a seatbelt.

Main Street Traffic Project Halted

Two-way vehicle traffic on Main Street in Buffalo is stopped at a red light again. Projects on the 600 block of Main and a section of lower Main Street will be put on hold until 2010 as planners deal with the Federal Transportation Administration. The 40-million-dollar project has been under scrutiny by the FTA, the main funding source for the work, since 2004.

County Millions Missing from Budget

County Comptroller Mark Poloncarz says that millions of dollars in costs are missing from the Erie County budget. County Executive Chris Collins did not include 16-million in Medicaid-related charges that are supposed to be paid to ECMC and the Erie County Home. Poloncarz says the budget is therefore out of balance. Collins says he knows his neck is stuck out a bit, but says he's working out a deal to forgive the debt, or at least spread it over the next couple of years. The county control board will meet Monday to review Collins' budget.

Tops Starts ID Policy

If you want to buy alcohol or cigarettes at any Tops Friendly Markets, better have your ID with you, no matter how old you are. The company announced that it will implement a no-exceptions policy, requiring identification for every alcohol or tobacco purchase starting this Sunday.

West Seneca Downsize Vote Delayed

West Seneca voters will have to wait till next year to decide on downsizing. A state appeals court threw out an earlier decision that would have set up a special election in mid-November. Regionalism advocate Kevin Gaughan says he'll start a new round of petitions to replace those that judges found to be misleading. But Town Board Member Vince Graber says that shouldn't be necessary because the board has already agreed to allow a vote next spring.

Golisano Asked to Appear Before Board

Sabres owner Tom Golisano has been asked to appear before the Erie County Board of Elections, to explain his dealings with a pair of political action committees that are accused of illegally coordinating with the State Senate campaign of Joe Mesi. A subpoena may be issued if Golisano refuses to answer voluntarily. Both Golisano and Mesi have denied any violations of election law.

Channels 4 & 23 Back on Cable

Channels 4 and 23 are back on Time-Warner as of this morning. TWC and LIN-TV announced an agreement that puts programming back in place so viewers can watch the news, CBS programming, and the Bills-Jets game Sunday. Time-Warner's Robin Wolfgang says this was a unique case:

http://www.weck1230.com/News/Wolfgang.mp3

LIN TV's local manager Chris Musial says that viewers stuck with the stations:

http://www.weck1230.com/News/Musial.mp3

Financial terms were not revealed, although Channel 23 will now join Channel 4 on Time-Warner's HD tier.

Powers Stays on Ballot

A state judge in Albany has ruled that Jon Powers has to stay on the Working Families Party ballot for Congress, even thought he's ended his campaign and moved out of state. The means that Powers will not be replaced by Democrat Alice Kryzan, who wanted to secure an additional party nomination. The judge said the time for such ballot challenges has long passed. Powers has endorsed Kryzan since losing the September Democratic primary to her.

Delaware North Wins Downstate Contract

Buffalo-based Delaware North has won a lucrative video-gaming contract for the new Aqueduct Raceway in New York City. The company offered 370-million dollars up front to the state to secure the contract. Aqueduct Gaming LLC will develop an entertainment complex with 45-hundred video lottery terminals [[ VLT ]], along with restaurants, hotels, a conference center and retail outlets. State officials project that the video slots will to generate over eight-billion dollars over 30 years. The deal is expected to create 50 news jobs at Delaware North's downtown Buffalo headquarters and in Queens. Governor Paterson says the facility will generate 31-billion dollars for the state's education programs over the next 30 years. That means Buffalo public schools could see nearly four-and-a-half million dollars in the first year.

Waterfront Progress Due for Hockey Tourney

In 2010, when the World Junior Hockey Championships skate into town, Larry Quinn says the Buffalo waterfront will be well on its way to completion. Quinn, who plays a leadership role with both the Sabres and the Buffalo harbor projects, says that Bass Pro will be open, and phase one of the inner harbor will be done, complete with cobblestone streets and new parking garages. The entire inner harbor project will take five or six years to be complete.

Delano Campaign Questioned

Buffalo Police Detective Dennis Delano was suspended back in February amid allegations that he released unauthorized and sensitive evidence to the media in a murder case, including crime scene video and a suspect's polygraph examination. Now, Delano is running for State Senate, and his opponent, State Senator Bill Stachowski, is wonders why Delano's suspension process is taking so long, saying that if the detective is innocent, he should want to get it over with. Delano has mostly avoided the media during his campaign, but is polling well as a Republican in a heavily Democratic district.

Bills Monday

The Bills now have familiar company atop the AFC East. Buffalo has now lost two out of its last three, after being upset by the Miami Dolphins Sunday, 25-to-16. Buffalo drops to 5-and-2 on the season and is now tied with New England atop the AFC East. Several media reports say that Coach Dick Jauron has agreed to a three-year contract extension, through the 2011 season. Neither the team nor the coach will comment.

Memorial for Hilbert Student

A memorial service for 19-year-old Hilbert College student Meghan Sorbera is set for this afternoon at 3 in the school's Swan Auditorium. Sorbera was killed when a car struck her Saturday morning on South Park Avenue. A tree planting ceremony in Sorbera's memory will follow the service. Hilbert offices will be closed, and classes cancelled during the service. Orchard Park attorney John Duffy was been arrested in the case.

Falls Hit-and-Run Investigated

Police in Niagara Falls are trying to identify the owner of a car involved in a fatal hit-and-run. A vehicle matching the description was found on fire and without license plates hours after the deadly crash. Authorities say the car hit two pedestrians at Walnut Avenue and 19th Street about 1 a.m. Sunday. 38-year-old Mark Milczarski was pronounced dead at the scene, and 40-year-old Eduardo Ortiz was injured.

Downtown Casino Ruling will be Appealed

The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a notice of appeal in the Downtown Casino case. The filing asks for a review of Judge William Skretny's ruling that gambling on the Seneca's Buffalo site is illegal. If the notice is accepted, the case would be heard by a panel from the U.S. Second Circuit Court of Appeals, with a ruling within the next year.

Three-Million Dollar Home Sale Sets Record

Who says the real estate market's hurting? A new local high-water mark was set with the three-million dollar sale of a 15,000 square-foot home on Boston State Road. The sale price shatters the old record of one-point-four million set for a sale on Old Lake Shore Road in Evans.

Market, Mayor at Odds over Auction

The dispute between Broadway Market management and the city continues. The Market board says it will auction off everything possible before handing the landmark over to the city at the end of the month. Mayor Brown will have an announcement about the situation this afternoon.

Election Fraud Alleged

The Erie County Board of Elections is investigating a possible case of election fraud. Democratic operative Steve Pigeon's "Citizens for Fiscal Integrity" group is accused of laundering thousands of dollars from Sabres owner Tom Golisano's political action committee and others. Board Commissioner Ralph Mohr wants a criminal investigation.

Falls Loan Case Headed to Grand Jury

A case involving former Niagara Falls mayor Vincent Anello and developer "Smokin' Joe" Anderson is headed to a grand jury. At issue is an interest-free, 40-thousand dollar loan Anello received from Anderson, which Anello says was used to meet payroll for his private business. There are allegations that Smokin' Joe received preferential treatment regarding downtown properties he operated.

NFTA Fare Hikes Coming?

The NFTA board votes today on fare hikes for Metro Bus and rail riders. If approved, the cost of a one-way trip would rise from 1-50 to 1-75, starting January 1st. Officials say ridership is up, largely because of the cost of gas, but the increases are stil needed to close a three-million dollar budget gap.

County Fees Rise in Proposed Budget

Also going up: fees for a variety of county services, from park shelter rentals, to rounds of golf and health clinic visits. It's all part of County Executive Chris Collins' proposed 2009 budget. For example, the cost of an annual county golf pass would go up from 350 to 380 dollars next year. The budget also includes a proposed three-point-six percent property tax hike.
County Legislators began sifting through the budget yesterday. Michelle Ianello says the final word on budget cuts will come from Collins himself.