Wednesday, July 8, 2009
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Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Good Morning Buffalo: Michael Jackson
Family Attorney Janet Pennisi talks to Tom and Loraine about the issues following the death of the King of Pop.
Hometown News: Senate Standoff Continues
State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli is asking a state judge to rule if he can withhold pay from state lawmakers involved in the ongoing feud in Albany. Comptroller DiNapoli argues he can hold onto paychecks for all 62 Senators with Governor Paterson refusing to take sides in the power struggle. The governor says the true leader of the Senate remains unclear. Another special session is scheduled for today. No officials business was conducted Monday in the state Senate.
A new concept been suggested to end the stalemate in the state Senate. A co-majority was proposed by Senate Republicans and renegade Democratic Senator Pedro Espada Jr. and would remain in effect through 2010. The Democratic conference has so far rejected the notion. The biggest barrier to continuing co-leadership would require Senate rules to be rewritten, which could become a long, drawn-out affair. Also, co-leaders could have trouble making personnel decisions regarding staff and other resources, since many positions are given to party loyalists.
One state Assemblyman wants Governor Paterson to appoint a Lieutenant Governor to break the stalemate in the state Senate. Assemblyman Michael Gianaris of Queens says current laws leave the door open for Paterson to make an appointment. The Lieutenant Governor's post has been vacant since Paterson assumed the governor's seat in the wake of the Eliot Spitzer scandal. The position has the power to break ties in the Senate. The move could spark lawsuits from the GOP, since Paterson would select a Democrat.
A new concept been suggested to end the stalemate in the state Senate. A co-majority was proposed by Senate Republicans and renegade Democratic Senator Pedro Espada Jr. and would remain in effect through 2010. The Democratic conference has so far rejected the notion. The biggest barrier to continuing co-leadership would require Senate rules to be rewritten, which could become a long, drawn-out affair. Also, co-leaders could have trouble making personnel decisions regarding staff and other resources, since many positions are given to party loyalists.
One state Assemblyman wants Governor Paterson to appoint a Lieutenant Governor to break the stalemate in the state Senate. Assemblyman Michael Gianaris of Queens says current laws leave the door open for Paterson to make an appointment. The Lieutenant Governor's post has been vacant since Paterson assumed the governor's seat in the wake of the Eliot Spitzer scandal. The position has the power to break ties in the Senate. The move could spark lawsuits from the GOP, since Paterson would select a Democrat.
HTN: Charges Dropped Against Wilson Coaches
Child Endangerment charges have been dropped against two Wilson High School baseball coaches. Prosecutors abruptly asked for the case to be dismissed against William Atlas and Thomas Baia for their alleged roles in a hazing incident on April 17th of last year. The District Attorney's office did not give a reason why the charges were dropped. The move came on the day when a jury was to have been selected. The two coaches had been on paid suspension. Now their lawyers say the school board should reconsider their status based on this new information.
HTN: Buffalo Man Sentenced in Fatal Border Chase
A Buffalo man serving a prison term in Canada for killing a woman during a high speed chase across the border has been sentenced on carjacking charges from that incident. Police say 33-year-old Cornelius Cross was given a 15 year sentence for stealing a car in Buffalo which led to the fatal accident in 2004. Authorities say Cross stole the car and was being chased by police. That's when he ditched the car, stole a cable television van and raced across the Rainbow Bridge killing a woman in a crash on the Canadian side. Cross still has five years left on his Canadian sentence for the death. He will serve 15 years for the thefts of the van and car when he arrives back in the U.S in 2014.
HTN: Senecas Set Up New Investment Company
The Seneca Nation of Indians has formed a new investment company. Seneca Holdings LLC is expected to spend at least 28-million dollars over the next five years through a series of subsidiaries. All of those investments will be with companies that are operated, owned or run by members of the Seneca Nation or other tribes. Seneca Holdings was formed against the backdrop of potential legal threats against the Seneca's gaming and tobacco business ventures. Seneca officials say job creation and community development are key for the firm's new investment strategy.
HTN: Springville Sinkhole Getting Bigger
A big sinkhole in Springville has gotten even bigger, and residents want to know why. Officials say the hole is increasing in length north and south. The hole is on an Erie County road, so the town has been waiting for the county to repair the problem. The Erie County Department of Public Works says the county and the town are working "very closely together." Inspectors say there is hollowing underneath a culvert in the road and the dirt is falling in, allowing water to from a nearby creek to spill into the hole. A temporary dam will need to be put in place to halt the flow of water just above the stream's spillway.
HTN: New Scam Targets Elderly
A recent phone scam targeting the elderly that's popped up elsewhere in the country has finally made its way to the Buffalo area. Two men call the victim, one of whom pretends to be the person's "grandson." He says he's stuck in Toronto because of an accident and needs 36-hundred dollars for repairs. He then puts his "lawyer" on the phone to give the victim instructions on how to send them money and where.
New York Leads Nation in Pay Cuts
Buffalo has been ranked eighth nationally by "Forbes" magazine for pay cuts in the last year. In fact, the top five cities were all in New York State. Buffalo residents have taken a collective zero-point-four-percent pay cut. Rochester ranked worst, with a two-point-three-percent loss, followed by Syracuse, Albany, New York City and Poughkeepsie. Statistics were measured between fourth quarter 2008 through first quarter 2009.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Good Morning Buffalo: Movie Talk
Movie Critic Michael Calleri joins Loraine and Tom live in studio to set up the holiday weekend at the cinemas.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Hometown News: Senate Standoff
Governor David Paterson is trying to resolve the gridlock issues in Albany by keeping Senators there for the holiday weekend. Any public meeting between state Senate Republicans and Democrats to resolve the bitter leadership dispute will have to wait until Thursday. Republican leader Dean Skelos had offered to hold the get together Wednesday, but leaders with the Democratic conference say they need time "to work on arrangements and an agenda to ensure a productive negotiation."
HTN: FBI Raids two Hamburg Homes
The FBI executed search warrants yesterday at the two most-expensive homes ever purchased in Erie County. Agents searched for evidence at two homes on Boston State Road, in connection with a still-undisclosed financial fraud case. The homes were purchased last year by a young hedge fund trader, for a total of six-point-three-million dollars. Court documents show the ownership listed as a company called Phantom Holdings One and a man named Michael Wilson.
HTN: Mayor Shouldn't Use City Seal for Charities
Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown has been told not to use the official city seal at charity functions. The Board of Ethics has told the Mayor the practice could make it appear that the charity events aree city sponsored. In January Brown used the city seal on invitations to a 35-dollar-a-plate luncheon to raise money for his Fund to Advance Buffalo charity. The move raised the ire of a Buffalo attorney who filed a complaint. The board concluded it would be best for the Mayor not to use the seal for an outside organization.
Hometown Sports: Sabres Free Agent Moves
The Sabres gained one and lost one in free agency yesterday. Defensemen, that is. Buffalo agreed to terms with free agent Steve Montador on a two-year contract. The 29-year-old defensive specialist spent last season with the Anaheim Ducks and Boston Bruins, recording four goals and 17 assists in 78 games. On the other side, the Montreal Canadiens signed defenseman Jaroslav Spacek to a three-year contract.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Hometown News: Capital Chaos turns on Can of Coke
Governor Paterson is calling for another special session for today after a Republican state Senator created a stir in wandering into the Senate chamber to avoid a crowd. Queens state Senator Frank Padavan used the chamber as a short-cut to get a soda. Senate Democrats assert Padavan's presence gave them enough members to form a quorum of 32-votes and pass legislation. Governor Paterson is calling for an end to the game in Albany
But Governor Paterson will not recognize any of the measures Senate Democrats claimed to pass. No official business was accomplished.
Governor Paterson's standing among voters remains abysmal. That's according to the latest Marist poll, in which voters give the Democrat a 21-percent approval rating. Two-thirds of New Yorkers in the survey say Paterson is a weak leader.
But Governor Paterson will not recognize any of the measures Senate Democrats claimed to pass. No official business was accomplished.
Governor Paterson's standing among voters remains abysmal. That's according to the latest Marist poll, in which voters give the Democrat a 21-percent approval rating. Two-thirds of New Yorkers in the survey say Paterson is a weak leader.
HTN: Chickens Legal in Buffalo
A new law has come home to roost, and chicken coops could now become a normal sight in Buffalo. The Common Council agreed six to three to pass legislation which would allow people have chickens in their backyards. A Tuesday meeting only had two out of the 40 people attending not in favor of the new law. The legislation would require residents to pay a one time license fee of 25-dollars and only allow five hens to be kept on properties. Roosters would not be allowed to be kept, and residents would have to keep the hens in an enclosed area with a chicken coop. Supporters of the law feel it would help people understand where their food comes from.
HTN: Buffalo Product Recalled
A Buffalo company has issued a product recall. Buffalo Sav Inc. is asking anyone who has purchased their "Grandma's Pierogies" products to return them. The products contain an ingredient called Amarath Red #2 which is not legal to be used in foods sold in the United States. Officials report no adverse reaction to the chemical has yet to be reported, but advises anyone with concerns who has consumed the products to contact the doctor.
HTN: 1975 Cold Case Cracked
The man accused of killing a young Buffalo girl back in 1975 has been indicted. Prosecutors say 55-year-old Bernard Thomas faces charges of intentional murder and two counts of murder while committing sex crimes. Authorities say Thomas sexually assaulted 19-year-old Michelle Dixon before shooting her to death 34 years ago. Thomas entered a not guilty plea Tuesday and his lawyer says he will try to work out a plea deal. Cops say they cracked the case when the victim's family called to inquire if the case was reopened. That's when the Cold Case Squad ran a DNA sample and Thomas came up a match. Police say he had always been the prime suspect. Thomas' rap sheet includes 56 arrests. He was ordered held without bail.
HTN: Mining Company Wins Court Case
Mining operations will be allowed to expand at a quarry in Cheektowaga. New York State's highest court has sided with Buffalo Crushed Stone, allowing the quarry to excavate land across Indian Road. The court stated that it was unrealistic and unreasonable to require the quarry to have mined all of its 280-acre land before town zoning codes restricted operations in 1969. The high court's ruling also allows for mining on two parcels near Como Park Boulevard.
HTN: GM Tonawanda to Closefor Extra Week
The GM engine plant in Tonawanda will stop production for an additional week next month. That means the factory will grind to a halt for a total of five weeks. Production was halted at the beginning of this week as part of a two week seasonal closure planned each year. The lines will fire up for one on July 13th before stopping the 20th as per the latest announcement. The additional closure is because of the company's adjusted schedule for a plant in Ohio.
Hometown Sports: Sabres Don't Expect Big Splash
NHL Free Agency began today at noon. Sabre GM Darcy Regier said he did not expect the team to be active in signing new players, but that he might try to improve the roster through trades. Buffalo has six unrestricted free agents, including Jaro Spacek and Max Afinogenov. They can match any offer made to restricted free agents Drew Stafford, Andrej Sekera or Patrick Kaleta. The Rangers traded forward Scott Gomez to the Canadiens.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
HTN: Capital Chaos Continues
Capital chaos contiues today, and it may be getting more random. A state Supreme Court judge ordered the warring sides back to the state Senate for a working session this morning. Judge Joseph Teresi sided with Governor David Paterson in the now three-week long power struggle. Teresi ordered the Senate to convene for a special session at 10 a.m.
But Senate Republicans filed an appeal to stay the order, attempting to put this morning's session on hold. Democrats then took over the Senate chamber again, placing senators in two key leadership chairs to bolster their claim that they control the Senate. Dems say several pieces of legislation must be acted on by today or they will expire, and that billions in education, stimulus, housing and other federal money will be lost. Democratic conference leader John Sampson says the coup will end up costing New York taxpayers seven-point-two-billion dollars.
But Senate Republicans filed an appeal to stay the order, attempting to put this morning's session on hold. Democrats then took over the Senate chamber again, placing senators in two key leadership chairs to bolster their claim that they control the Senate. Dems say several pieces of legislation must be acted on by today or they will expire, and that billions in education, stimulus, housing and other federal money will be lost. Democratic conference leader John Sampson says the coup will end up costing New York taxpayers seven-point-two-billion dollars.
HTN: Beefing up the Borders
Border patrol agents are beefing up security, just in time for the Fourth of July weekend. New cameras will give agents a continuous view of the Niagara River all the way up through Youngstown. The lower Niagara has been under surveillance since 2003, and with the installation of the cameras on the upper section, the entire length of the river will be covered by the end of the summer.
HTN: Use that Gift Card Before the Gov't Gets It
If you leave a gift card laying around unused, you may find the state will grab its cash value. "The Wall Street Journal" is reporting several states are labeling gift cards that go unused for as little as two years "abandoned property" and are taking the money. Every year, about six-point-eight-billion dollars in gift card value is never redeemed.
HTN: First Niagara Pays Back Bailout
First Niagara bank has paid Uncle Sam back the bailout money it received. The company says it has completed a final transaction worth more than two-and-a-half million dollars, to buy back the warrant which could have allowed the Treasury Department to buy nearly a million shares of common stock. The bank is now free from the tight restrictions placed on institutions taking taxpayer money.
HTN: Studio Arena to Permanently Close
Studio Arena Theatre has changed its bankruptcy plans, and will go dark forever. The theater's assets will now be liquidated to satisfy debts and it will cease to exist, after failing to convince potrential donors that it could restructure and survive.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Hometown News: Second Student dies from H1N1
A second Buffalo student has died from swine flu. Nine-year-old Maya Harden passed away Saturday morning at Women and Children's Hospital. She was a fourth-grader at the Charles Drew Science Magnet School 59 who had been ill for some time. The second death comes a week after 15-year-old Matthew Davis died from complications related to H1N1. School Superintendent Doctor James Williams reminds parents to have their kids wash their hands frequently to help prevent the spread of the flu.
HTN: Teen Hit by Train Dies
The autistic teen hit by a train in the City of Tonawanda last week has died. The family of 15-year-old Anthony Fracassi of Buffalo removed him from life support on Friday. The teen was participating in a baseball game for challenged youth last Tuesday near Main Street and Fuller Avenue. At some point Fracassi wandered away from the game and up onto the train tracks. He suffered multiple injuries after being hit by the CSX freight train. The investigation is closed and no charges will be filed.
HTN: Senate Standoff Continues
The senate circus appears far from over. On Sunday, state lawmakers met for another emergency session and for the sixth straight day, they accomplished absolutely nothing. Governor David Paterson met with Democrats behind closed doors last night, but says the meeting didn't result in a solution to the power sharing struggle. Meantime, turncoat Senator Pedro Espada says he's being approached by Democrats who want him to return to the caucus. That would give Democrats the majority. Governor Paterson has called another special session for today and says he'll even order one on July 4th if the power struggle hasn't been resolved by then. Both sides of the aisle held separate sessions on Sunday, but no legislation was passed. Paterson has called the senators "derelict in their duty" and has promised to cut millions of dollars of pork-barrel projects until the Senate gets back to normal. The governor has also ordered state officials to find a way to cut off senators' expenses reimbursement and paychecks.
HTN: New York is Cheap with Unemployment Benefits
New York has the lowest average unemployment benefit. There are over 500-thousand New Yorkers receiving unemployment benefits from the state. The largest sum anyone can draw is 405 dollars a week, and with an additional short-term 25-dollar stimulus boost. The average check is 314 dollars. Regionally, Connecticut, New Jersey and Pennsylvania clock in at 600-dollars-a-week, while an unemployed Massachusetts worker can get up to 900 a week.
HTN: Missing Hamburg Man
Police are searching for a missing Hamburg man. Twenty-six-year-old Aaron Dorolek was last seen early Friday evening. He is described as a six-foot-three-inch tall white male with brown hair and green eyes. Anyone with information should call Hamburg police.
HTN: Flynn Gets Key to City
Hometown high school star and Syracuse standout Jonny Flynn gets the key to the city of Niagara Falls tonight at City Hall. After wrapping up two exciting years with the Orange, Flynn was drafted sixth overall by the NBA Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Good Morning Buffalo: Michael Jackson
Tom and Loraine talk to Fox News Radio's Alistair Wanklin on the reaction from overseas.
Hometown News: Albany Deal Nearing?
Governor Paterson is calling state Senators back to Albany for a fourth special session this afternoon. Lawmakers met briefly for separate extraordinary sessions. Both Republicans and Democrats gaveled in and out of meetings that lasted no longer than five-minutes. No official business was carried out. Governor Paterson blasts the Senate leaders for a lack of leadership. Meanwhile, both Republican and Democratic state Senators claim a deal is within reach to share power.
HTN: Storms Leave Damage in Niagara County
Storms rolled through Western New York yesterday, especially pounding northern Niagara County. Lightning struck a church chimney at Ransomville Baptist Church and there were several reports of downed utility lines, power failures, traffic signal outages and the like. National Grid reported that seven-thousand Niagara County lost power around the area yesterday. They were mostly restored by 4 p.m.
HTN: DC Train Driver from Buffalo Laid to Rest
The Buffalo native killed in the Washington DC train crash will be laid to rest today. Services will be held in the nation's Capitol for 42-year-old Jeanice McMillan, who was the conductor of the moving train which collided with a stopped one.McMillan grew up in Buffalo and graduated from Turner-Carroll High school. She moved to Virginia and had worked for the Metro rail system since January of 2007. Nine people were killed in Monday's crash. The cause remains under investigation.
HTN: FAA Reviewing Pilot Rules
In the wake of the crash of Flight 3407, the FAA is fast-tracking the review of pilot fatigue rules. The Administration will set up a committee by July 15th to begin the effort to revise the rules governing airline pilots. Recommendations will be made by September first. The FAA is also calling on airlines to review all of a pilot's test records before hiring them. The NTSB says the pilot at the helm of the doomed flight had failed previous test flights and the co-pilot may have been fatigued.
HTN: Vets Convention in Buffalo
Thousands of veterans have arrived for the annual New York state VFW convention. More than three-thousand vets will take part in events at the Hyatt Regency downtown through Sunday. The 90th annual gathering will focus on topics such as health care and other benefits for those who served the country. Throughout A replica of the Vietnam Memorial has been set up in East Aurora's Knox Farm State Park.
HTN: Goodbye, Aud
Tuesday will be the final goodbye to the Memorial Auditorium. Officials will gather next week for a formal send-off as demolition work comes to an end with the tearing-down of the South Wall. The Aud's time capsule from 1939 will be opened.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Hometown News: Another Day, Another Special Session
Governor David Paterson is calling state Senate Democrats back to Albany for another special session this afternoon. The governor is making good on his promise to continue calling special sessions until the power struggle over the Senate is resolved. Deposed majority leader Malcolm Smith had threatened that he and other Democrats were going home after holding a five-minute special session without voting on an issue. Republicans did not attend after issues of legality were raised. Governor Paterson threatened to go to court to keep Democrats in Albany, which did not sit well with state Senator Eric Adams
As of late Wednesday, both Senate Democrats and Republicans say they're planning to attend this afternoon's 3 p.m., session.The governor is also consulting with the state Comptroller's office to dock pay and stipends since the political coup began two-weeks ago.
Paterson insists calling the state Senate back for a special session is within his authority. Senate Republican Leader Dean Skelos says Senators are getting down to making a deal.
State Senator Jeff Klein notes the state Constitution allows the governor to recall just state Senators to Albany for a special session. But Klein is not certain if any of the measures approved during Tuesday's special session would stand up to a legal challenge.
State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli says vital state programs face a 1-billion-dollar risk if the chaos in the state Senate continues. With less than a week left to come up with a solution, DiNapoli is calling for responsible leadership, and urging lawmakers to pass legislation. Without Senate action by June 30th, local governments will be looking at a potential 750-million-dollars in revenue losses. More than 30 counties are facing the loss of up to 25-percent of their sales tax revenues, which would likely lead to drastic cuts in every level of local government across the state.
As of late Wednesday, both Senate Democrats and Republicans say they're planning to attend this afternoon's 3 p.m., session.The governor is also consulting with the state Comptroller's office to dock pay and stipends since the political coup began two-weeks ago.
Paterson insists calling the state Senate back for a special session is within his authority. Senate Republican Leader Dean Skelos says Senators are getting down to making a deal.
State Senator Jeff Klein notes the state Constitution allows the governor to recall just state Senators to Albany for a special session. But Klein is not certain if any of the measures approved during Tuesday's special session would stand up to a legal challenge.
State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli says vital state programs face a 1-billion-dollar risk if the chaos in the state Senate continues. With less than a week left to come up with a solution, DiNapoli is calling for responsible leadership, and urging lawmakers to pass legislation. Without Senate action by June 30th, local governments will be looking at a potential 750-million-dollars in revenue losses. More than 30 counties are facing the loss of up to 25-percent of their sales tax revenues, which would likely lead to drastic cuts in every level of local government across the state.
HTN: FAA Fights Pilot Fatigue
The Federal Aviation Administration has ordered airlines and pilot unions to come to a consensus by September 1st on how to limit pilot fatigue. The command came after the National Transportation Safety Board suspected pilot fatigue in February's fatal crash of Continental Express Flight 3407 in Buffalo and other recent accidents. The board concluded both pilots in the Buffalo crash did not have enough sleep before climbing into the cockpit.
HTN: Convictions in Death of Diplomat from Buffalo
Five Sudanese men have been convicted in connection to the assassination of an American diplomat last year in Sudan. John Granville, who grew up in South Buffalo, was killed on January 1st, 2008 when assassins and shot him and his driver. Abdelbaset Alhaj Alhassan, Abdelraoof Hamza, Mohamed Makawi Ibrahim, and Osman Mohamed Yousif all face the death penalty. Hafev Murad Abdelrahman was convicted of a weapons charge and has been sentenced to two years in prison. The 33-year-old Granville was a former Peace Corps volunteer working as a diplomat with the U.S. Agency for International Development.
HTN: Bridges to Twitter
The Niagara Falls Bridge Commission says it will post delays at the Rainbow Bridge and at the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge on the networking site Twitter. Travellers can log on to twitter.com/NiagaraBridges. Officials say when there are delays, tweets will be posted every 30 to 60 minutes and you can find which bridge has the shortest delay.
HTN: Lottery Plans to Install Table Games
The state Lottery is moving forward with plans for electronic gaming machines at racetrack casinos, although the state Assembly ended its session without taking up the bill. However, the Governor's lottery division is advancing its plan to bring electronic versions of 21, roulette and craps to eight racetracks across the state. Opponents question whether the Lottery has the legal authority to install the games. State officials insist they are on sound legal footing.
HTN: Buffalo Near the Top in Real Estate Price Stability
A North Carolina-based real estate forecast company has ranked Buffalo among the top markets for home prices. Local Market Monitor has listed Buffalo as tied for second with four other markets as part of the country's top ten markets for home prices in the next 12 months. Syracuse, Rochester, and five other markets are tied for third. The report shows the top markets, where home values are expected to stay level, are some of the markets that didn't go through a big housing boom. Prices in those markets are generally below the U.S. average, and reflect where the recession has had a generally mild impact so far.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Hometown News: Capital Circus
The theater of the absurd continues inside the Senate chamber in Albany. Democratic and Republican state senators entered the chambers yesterday afternoon and tried to run their own legislative sessions while ignoring the other side. Senators from both sides called for votes on bills, many times talking over each other even though they were mere feet apart inside the chamber. Governor David Paterson is calling for another special session and adding a gay marriage bill to the agenda.
The governor seeking a vote on a same-sex marriage bill has reportedly angered Bronx state Senator Ruben Diaz, Senior. Diaz is reportedly considering siding with colleague, Senator Pedro Espada, in caucusing with Republicans and putting the GOP in control of the Senate. Diaz blasts Governor Paterson's decision to hold a special session.
State Attorney General Andrew Cuomo says it's time to put partisan politics aside in Albany. Cuomo says state Senators are needed to vote on important issues that impact the lives of everyday New Yorkers.
His approval in a free-fall for most of 2009, a new survey says David Paterson's standing with voters may have bottomed out. According to a new Quinnipiac University poll, the Governor's disapproval rating of 61 percent is the same that it was in the May 13 poll on the same subject. Just 28 percent of those asked approve of Paterson's job performance. In a potentential 2010 Democratic Primary, Attorney General Andrew Cuomo trounces Paterson 51-20 percent.
The governor seeking a vote on a same-sex marriage bill has reportedly angered Bronx state Senator Ruben Diaz, Senior. Diaz is reportedly considering siding with colleague, Senator Pedro Espada, in caucusing with Republicans and putting the GOP in control of the Senate. Diaz blasts Governor Paterson's decision to hold a special session.
State Attorney General Andrew Cuomo says it's time to put partisan politics aside in Albany. Cuomo says state Senators are needed to vote on important issues that impact the lives of everyday New Yorkers.
His approval in a free-fall for most of 2009, a new survey says David Paterson's standing with voters may have bottomed out. According to a new Quinnipiac University poll, the Governor's disapproval rating of 61 percent is the same that it was in the May 13 poll on the same subject. Just 28 percent of those asked approve of Paterson's job performance. In a potentential 2010 Democratic Primary, Attorney General Andrew Cuomo trounces Paterson 51-20 percent.
HTN: Debt Collector Busted
A Buffalo-based collection agency, whose employees allegedly posed as police officers, has been padlocked and the owner arrested. Attorney General Andrew Cuomo accused several agencies run by Tobias Boyland of shady practices. The 43-year-old Boyland, already a convicted felon, was arrested yesterday at his home. Cuomo's office has brought civil suits against Boyland and three of his employees, all of whom have criminal records. The three were just a few of about 30 people operating companies under nine names at four local offices.
HTN: Pat Kane on Cover of NHL '09
South Buffalo native and Chicago Blackhawk Patrick Kane is the cover man for this year's EA Sports NHL video game. The twenty-year-old was drafted first overall two years ago, and is now the youngest player ever chosen for the cover. Kane says that it's exciting to be on the cover of his favorite video game, after only two years of professional play. Kane won the Calder Trophy as the NHL's Rookie of the Year in 2008, and this last season helped lead the Blackhawks to the Western Conference Finals. He's scored more than 20 goals and registered more than 70 points in each of his first two seasons.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
HTN: Residents Complain About Planes
Some area residents are expressing concern that a small local airstrip is not operating safely. Residents say that small planes leaving Buffalo-Lancaster Airport off Walden Avenue are flying too close together, possibly at unsafe altitudes. Planes generally take off in a westbound direction, but turn south, in order to avoid Buffalo-Niagara International's air space, right over a subdivision along Nichter and Pavement Roads. Airstrip owner Tom Gelles, has applied for government grants to extend his runway 23-hundred feet east.
HTN: Twin-Fatal Crash in LeRoy
State Police say two people are dead following an accident involving three vehicles Tuesday morning in Genesee County. One car was northbound on Rt. 19 in Leroy when a van headed southbound crossed over and struck the car head on. A dump truck trailing behind one of the cars could not stop in time and was also involved. The drivers of the car and van were killed.
Hometown News: Dems Hold Lock-In
About 18 Democratic senators have occupied the State Senate chamber and locked the doors, barring the press and public from the gallery. They say they'll let their Republican foes in before a 3 p-m special session ordered by Gov. David Paterson. GThe governor says he wants votes on 55 time-sensitive measures that are considered non-controversial items.
Earlier, Standing Senate President Pedro Espada Junior had said a deal was in the works to share power. But former majority leader Malcolm Smith said progress has been slow.
Earlier, Standing Senate President Pedro Espada Junior had said a deal was in the works to share power. But former majority leader Malcolm Smith said progress has been slow.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Hometown News: First Erie County Swine Flu Death
A 15-year-old Buffalo boy has become Erie County's first swine flu related death. Matthew Davis was reportedly suffering from pneumonia and MERSA as well as the H1N1 virus. . Davis was an eighth grade student at Harvey Austin School 97. He was taken off life support Saturday.School officials say grief counselors will be available today.
HTN: Paterson to Call Special Session
Although the legislative session is supposed to come to an end today, senators could be staying in Albany a bit longer. Fed up with the partisan bickering, Governor David Paterson is ordering a special session beginning Tuesday that could keep senators in Albany every day, including weekends and the July 4th holiday.
The Senate has been at a standstill for weeks, after Republicans seized control of the chamber and a bitter fight has been raging over leadership positions.Paterson warns Senators that there will be no excuses and no tolerance for not complying with the order. Democrats have refused to enter a session under the Republican control and Republicans have not been willing to enter any power-sharing agreements. Paterson announced that former Lieutenant Governor Stan Lundine and former state Senator John Dunne will act as mediators in the leadership dispute in the state Senate.
The Senate has been at a standstill for weeks, after Republicans seized control of the chamber and a bitter fight has been raging over leadership positions.Paterson warns Senators that there will be no excuses and no tolerance for not complying with the order. Democrats have refused to enter a session under the Republican control and Republicans have not been willing to enter any power-sharing agreements. Paterson announced that former Lieutenant Governor Stan Lundine and former state Senator John Dunne will act as mediators in the leadership dispute in the state Senate.
HTN: Half of Buffalo Flights are Commuter Planes
A new report out of Washington shows thaat regional airlines now account for nearly half of the flights from Buffalo to destinations across the U.S., as well as local routes to major airports like LaGuardia and Reagan National. The report, which concentrated on data from mid-July 2008, showed 46-percent of planes were flown by regional carriers, despite the Continental, Delta, US Airways or United stamped on the ticket. Also, many of the planes being flown along those routes are no longer big jets, but small regional jets and propeller planes, such as the Bombardier Dash 8 Q400, the type of plane used in the Colgan Air-operated Continental Connection flight 3407 between Newark and Buffalo which killed 50 people. Colgan also operates US Airways' Buffalo to Albany route.
HTN: Brush-Up Buffalo Postponed
Brush Up Buffalo 2009 was cancelled Saturday because of bad weather. Over 600 volunteers from area businesses and community groups have signed up to participate in the one-day event. This was the first time in the event's 13-year history it has been cancelled because of weather. All the originally-scheduled activities will take place on the new date, this Saturday June 27th. This year, 18 low-income, single-family, owner-occupied homes in the area around the University of Buffalo South Campus are scheduled to get a fresh coat of paint.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Hometown News: Capital Chaos
State lawmakers in Albany are heading home for the weekend without resolving the power struggle over the state Senate. Senate Democrats refused to attend a session convened by Republicans for a fourth consecutive day. Senate Democratic Leader John Sampson refuses to acknowledge the political coup putting Republicans and one defiant Democrat in charge. State Senator Eric Schneiderman calls the negotiations difficult.
But both sides did agree to keep sending paychecks to Senators and staff before leaving for the weekend. Democratic conference officials say they plan to file an appeal to the decision made earlier this week by a state judge to not interfere in the power struggle and let the senators figure it out for themselves.
Democrat state Senator Pedro Espana Jr., who broke away from the party in an attempt to lead the Republican takeover of the Senate, claims the chamber is no longer deadlocked. Espana claims that his position as president pro tempore also makes him acting lieutenant governor, giving him a second vote. Other Democrats of course disagree.They will file a motion to try and keep Espada from acting as temporary president of the Senate.
If state Senators don't resolve their leadership dispute and return to session, dozens of counties could be looking at increasing property taxes. The New York State Association of Counties says that there are 36 home rule bills pending that would extend the current sales tax rates in 36 counties and New York City. Without those bills being enacted, county leaders say the only alternatives are to cut services and jobs or increase property taxes.
But both sides did agree to keep sending paychecks to Senators and staff before leaving for the weekend. Democratic conference officials say they plan to file an appeal to the decision made earlier this week by a state judge to not interfere in the power struggle and let the senators figure it out for themselves.
Democrat state Senator Pedro Espana Jr., who broke away from the party in an attempt to lead the Republican takeover of the Senate, claims the chamber is no longer deadlocked. Espana claims that his position as president pro tempore also makes him acting lieutenant governor, giving him a second vote. Other Democrats of course disagree.They will file a motion to try and keep Espada from acting as temporary president of the Senate.
If state Senators don't resolve their leadership dispute and return to session, dozens of counties could be looking at increasing property taxes. The New York State Association of Counties says that there are 36 home rule bills pending that would extend the current sales tax rates in 36 counties and New York City. Without those bills being enacted, county leaders say the only alternatives are to cut services and jobs or increase property taxes.
HTN: Critical H1N1 Case in Buffalo School
A girl in the Buffalo Public School District is on life support with a confirmed case of swine flu. The nine-year-old caught pneumonia after contracting the H1N1 virus. The fourth grader attends the Charles Drew Science Magnet School 59 museum campus. The girl was taken to the emergency room Friday with flu-like symptoms and sent home. She then caught pneumonia and was admitted to Women and Children's Hospital on Tuesday morning.
HTN: Three Suspects Picked Up in Elba Bank Robbery
Three bank robbery suspects who triggered a major manhunt yesterday through Genesee County faced a judge last night in Elba Town Court. 26-year-old Dennis Abrams Jr., 25-year-old Demone Dillion and 24-year-old Michael Wells have been arraigned on first-degree robbery charges for knocking over the M&T Bank at 7133 Oak Orchard Road in Elba. As officers conducted a house-to-house search, all Genesee County schools were put on lockdown. Two men were picked up shortly after the robbery, but Wells eluded police for about six hours. All three were taken into custody without incident. Police recovered a handgun from one of the suspects. A second gun found with the money was found to be a fake. Abrams, Dillion and Wells were being held in the Genesee County Jail on no bail.
HTN: Indictment in West Seneca Stabbing
A West Seneca man has pleaded not guilty to stabbing his six-year-old son. 31-year-old Corey Cochran was indicted on an attempted murder charge, after. authorities said Cochran stabbed the boy in the chest during a domestic violence incident on April 19th in the family's Indian Church Road home. Cochran was ordered held without bail, and a temporary restraining order was put in place to prevent Cochran from contacting his estranged wife and four kids.
HTN: Falls Man cas Sue in Taser Case
A Niagara Falls man can sue the City police department after he was Tasered in an effort to obtain a DNA sample. A Niagara County judge says Ryan Smith may go ahead with the suit. Smith says in September he was Tasered into unconsciousness by Niagara Falls police who wanted to swab his mouth for DNA. Smith was a suspect in a shooting and armed robbery. Earlier this month a judge ruled that the DNA sample obtained after the Tasering would be admissible in the criminal trial.
HTN: Building OK'd after Partial Collapse
A former livery stable in downtown Buffalo has been given a clean bill of health. This comes after floorboards gave way earlier this week, trapping a payload operator underneath. Inspectors gave the C.W. Miller Livery Stable a thorough examination, and say the 117-year-old Huron Street building has no structural problems. Restaranteur Mark Croce plans to develop it into commercial and residential space.
HTN: Unemployment Still Rising
The New York State Department of Labor reported yesterday that the state's unemployment rate continued to climb in May. The rate jumped from seven-point-seven-percent in April to eight-point-two-percent in May. Last year in May, the unemployment rate was just five-point-two-percent. The unemployment rate in the Buffalo region was eight-point-three-percent, up from eight-point-five in April and five-point-seven a year ago.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Good Morning Buffalo: National Health Care
Loraine and Tom talk with Bob Moffatt from the Heritage Foundation about the Obama health care plan.
HTN: More Layoffs at Ford Woodlawn
The Ford stamping plant in Woodlawn is facing another round of layoffs. Eighty-seven more workers are expected to be laid off later this month and in early July while the plant adjusts production to meet the needs of the assembly plant it supplies in St. Thomas, Ontario. The cuts include 12 skilled trades workers who are expected to go on indefinite layoff June 29th, followed by 75 hourly production workers going idle on July 6th. The Ontario plant assembles The Crown Victoria, Lincoln Town Car and Mercury Grand Marquis. The Woodlawn plant produces body sides, hoods, front doors, quarter panels, rear doors and roofs for those vehicles.
HTN: Buff State Re-opens after Water Main Break
Buffalo State College is open again today. A water main broke under the student quad yesterday morning. School officials say a construction backhoe ruptured the water line. All classes were cancelled for the afternoon and evening. Water had to be shut off to the entire campus, and two buildings sustained flooded basements. The college closed and only essential personnel were told to remain on campus. All other support staff, faculty and students were excused. The problem was fixed by last night.
HTN: Yahoo! Reveals Lockport Site Plans
The Internet giant Yahoo! has unveiled its designs for the new data center it plans to build in Lockport. A company representative met with the Lockport Town Planning Board last night to reveal the plans for the high-tech, energy efficient hub to be built in the Town of Lockport Industrial Park. The project is set to create at least 75 jobs, with salaries between 50- and 60-thousand dollars. A public hearing on the project will be June 30th, with construction starting as soon as August.
HTN: Capital Chaos
There is still no deal in Albany over just who has control of the state Senate. The power struggle that has brought gridlock to the Senate for over a week continues as both Democrats and Republicans maintain they are in control of the chamber. Meanwhile, dozens of bills still need to be voted on before the current legislative session ends. Without a quorum, no bills are being debated or passed. Governor Paterson is calling on both sides to return to the Senate chamber and get back to doing the work of the people. Neither side in the leadership war in the state Senate is giving in. The Republican who claims to be Majority Leader -- Dean Skelos -- notes that Democratic Senators who've refused to go into session are still getting paid.
One bill in Albany which could get held up by the chaos in the Senate is a measure to tighten restrictions on teen drivers. The bill was approved unanimously in the Assembly Wednesday, but it is uncertain if the Senate will reconvene. The measure would require teen drivers to pass 50 hours of behind the wheel training before getting a license, up from 20 hours. It would also limit non-family passengers under the age of 21 to just one, when a teen is driving. Teen drivers also would not be able to plea to lesser offenses on traffic violations like speeding and would have to obtain a learner's permit for at least six months before getting a license. The bill also bans texting while driving for all ages.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Good Morning Buffalo 6/17/09
Rev. Darius Pridgen on the Lew-Port Schools controversy
Cold Case Detective Dennis Delano on his new book.
Cold Case Detective Dennis Delano on his new book.
Hometown News: Capital Chaos
The standoff at the state Senate continues. Democrats yesterday refused to enter a legislative session, as attempts to forge a power sharing agreement with Republicans have so far failed. The GOP has refused any agreement saying they are in control of the Senate as a result of last week's vote. A judge yesterday dismissed the Democrats legal attempt to block the coup, saying it was not a matter for the courts to decide. Democrats claim last week's vote to change power in the Senate was illegal but won't appeal the court's decision.
Governor Paterson is urging Senators to get back to work and to figure out the leadership question at a later date. Paterson won't call a special session to try to resolve the leadership dispute because he believes he would be tainting the process.
Governor Paterson is urging Senators to get back to work and to figure out the leadership question at a later date. Paterson won't call a special session to try to resolve the leadership dispute because he believes he would be tainting the process.
HTN: School Board Head Apologizes to Pastor
The president of the Lewiston-Porter School Board has apologized in person to a Buffalo pastor for forwarding racist and sexist emails. Robert Weller spoke to Pastor Darius Pridgen of True Bethel at last night's Lew-Port school board meeting , and accepted the apology. Pridgen asked the school board to look in to diversity training.
HTN: Canisius High Victimized by Alleged Embezzler
A former employee of Canisius High School has been charged with allegedly stealing more than a half-million dollars. Authorities say 49-year-old Donald Fuller embezzled the cash over a 16-year period using phony work invoices. Fuller was busted Tuesday morning at his Hamburg home by Postal Inspectors and IRS agents. Investigators say Fuller submitted invoices for repair work to the boilers and other equipment by an Orchard Park company. Authorities allege the work was done by school employees and Fuller kept the money.
HTN: Teen Dies at Soccer Game
A soccer game in Akron turned tragic. Authorities say a 14-year-old girl with a history of heart problems collapsed on the field Monday night and died. Emily Adamczak suffered cardiac arrest at the Akron Sports Complex about 7:30 p.m. She was rushed to Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital where she was pronounced dead. Authorities say she had a three year history of heart trouble.
HTN: Worker Rescued in Partial Building Collapse
Buffalo firefighters worked to free a construction worker trapped for over an hour yesterday. The victim became trapped under falling debris after the partial collapse of an old parking garage at Delaware and Huron in downtown Buffalo. The man was extricated a short time later and is now recovering.
HTN: Iranian-Americans Protest Downtown
About 50 Buffalo-area Iranian-Americans gathered this morning outside City Hall to protest the recent presidential election in their native land. The largest anti-government demonstrations since the 1979 Iranian Revolution are currently happening in Iran. Some of the protestors say they're not for or against either candidate, but rather stand for democracy and the people of Iran. The group also hopes to hold a candlelight vigil this Friday night on the University of Buffalo South Campus.
HTN: Would-be Lawyers Coming to Buffalo
The Buffalo Niagara Convention Center is set to play host to a bunch of prospective lawyers. The New York State Bar Exam will be conducted there on July 28th and 29th. About three-thousand would-be lawyers will visit the Queen City; usually the testing occurs in Albany. The test stands to be a windfall for downtown businesses, since about two-thousand test-takers are anticipated to come from out of town. That means they'll be renting hotel rooms, dining at area restaurants and shopping in the area. Added to that, the New York State Board of Law Examiners, the governing body administering the exams, will hire about 150 local residents to proctor the exams and provide security for the event.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Hometown News: Albany Power-Sharing
State Senate Democrats have reached a power sharing deal that seems to strip Majority Leader Malcolm Smith of much of his power while bringing another senator to the forefront of the party. Smith says the deal allows him to retain his title of Senate Majority Leader-President Pro Temp, while Senator John Sampson of Brooklyn now assumes the role of conference leader. The deal was announced yesterday. Senator Hiram Monserrate of Queens, who previously sided with the GOP, announced that he once again will support his fellow Democrats. Monserrate's latest flip-flop leaves the Senate deadlocked 31-31. Senators say they will try once again to get back to business today.
HTN: Indian Tribes Dislike New Border Rules
You now need a passport or enhanced driver's license to cross the border with Canada, but some Native American tribes don't like the idea. Dozens of protestors took to Niagara Falls in opposition of the new rules. The tribes say they are entitled to cross between the US and Canada, and if they are required to have tighter restrictions, than the U-S and Canadian governments should pay for it.
HTN: Senecas Want In on Lawsuit
The Seneca Nation wants to get directly involved in the legal fight over their casino in downtown Buffalo. Casino opponents have sued the US federal government for what they say was illegal approval of the gambling facility. The Senecas could not be sued directly but now say they may try and get a judge to allow them to become a defendant in the case. Since 2006, three different lawsuits have been filed seeking to block the casino.
HTN: Pilot Lands Plane Safely
The pilot of a plane that lost power over the Town of Wales touched down safely in a corn field yesterday. The plane flipped over after 72-year-old pilot Roy Berube of Tonawanda landedl, but Berube and his passenger walked away okay. Berube put out an emergency call at 4 p.m. yesterday afternoon while flying a Starduster Too replica World War Two biplane near Old Big Tree Road. Berube and passenger 62-year-old Paul Quenzler of Alden, also a pilot, received only minor injuries, and were treated at the scene.
HTN: Fourth Night Keeps Firefighters Busy
A fire that started late Friday night was still being tended by Buffalo fire crews last night. The fire started in Hickory Woods, at a city-owner warehouse being leased to Modern Disposal for recyclable materials storage. The blaze, which appears to be arson, left around 700-thousand dollars worth of damage. Four grass and tire fires were set across the railroad tracks from the scene, and firefighters tending the warehouse fire were called away to put those out as well. No arrests have been made.
HTN: WNY Home Market Improving
The Buffalo Niagara real estate market seems to be recovering slightly from the recession. Home sales in May were up more than three-percent from last year. That's the first time year-to-year statistics showed a monthly increase since last June. In another positive sign for the housing market, May sales were up more than 20-percent from April. It's the fourth straight month of sales increases. And home prices are at their highest levels since November.
HN: WNY Heroes Nominations Due
The deadline is approaching close to nominate ordinary individuals from the Western New York area for their extraordinary deeds. The WNY Heroes Awards program is sponsored by the United Way and Time Warner Cable. The six categories are active artists, community fixer, education leader, minor miracle worker and senior star. Nominations are due by July 1st. Finalists will be announced later this summer, followed by online voting. A gala will be held in the fall to recognize the winners. More information is available online at www.timewarnercable.com.
HTN: Coyotes Move to Hamilton Blocked
Looks like the Phoenix Coyotes won't be moving to Hamilton, Ontario after all. A Bankruptcy Judge issued a ruling Monday saying a June 29th deadline imposed by intended owner Jim Balsille didn't allow enough time to resolve many issues raised in the case. Coyotes president Doug Moss, who formerly held the same position with the Sabre, says the team will likely stay in Arizona.
A tentative auction date has been set for June 22nd. There is believed to be at least three sets of owners looking to buy the financially struggling franchise, including Chicago Bulls and Chicago White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf. The National Hockey League has insisted the team remain in Arizona, even though the franchise has lost 300-million dollars since moving to Phoenix in 1996. The Sabres and Leafs had expressed concerned about a team in Hamilton infringing on their territories.
A tentative auction date has been set for June 22nd. There is believed to be at least three sets of owners looking to buy the financially struggling franchise, including Chicago Bulls and Chicago White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf. The National Hockey League has insisted the team remain in Arizona, even though the franchise has lost 300-million dollars since moving to Phoenix in 1996. The Sabres and Leafs had expressed concerned about a team in Hamilton infringing on their territories.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Hometown News: Capital Chaos
Capital Chaos continues, as a matter of fact, it might be getting worse. Hiram Monserrate of Queens, one of the two Democrats who decided last week to vote with the Republicans in the State Senate is apparently returning to the Democratic caucus. Just yesterday, Brooklyn Senator Pedro Espada, the other renegade Democrat who joined the GOP caucus, said he and Monserrate were staying put, but Monserrate has reportedly bowed to intense lobbying by the Reverend Al Sharpton. A move back by Monserrate would throw the chaotic chamber into a 31-31 tie.
On Friday, Senate Democrats settled on Brooklyn's John Sampson to replace Malcolm Smith as leader of their conference, but to keep Smith as the majority leader. That apparently paved the way for Monserrate to move back. Smith tried to downplay the chaos while marching at the Puerto Rican Day Parade on Sunday. A judge in Albany says he will rule on who controls the state Senate, if the two sides can't work it out by this afternoon.
On Friday, Senate Democrats settled on Brooklyn's John Sampson to replace Malcolm Smith as leader of their conference, but to keep Smith as the majority leader. That apparently paved the way for Monserrate to move back. Smith tried to downplay the chaos while marching at the Puerto Rican Day Parade on Sunday. A judge in Albany says he will rule on who controls the state Senate, if the two sides can't work it out by this afternoon.
HTN: Retired Trooper Killed in Cycle Crash
Police have identified the motorcyclist killed last Friday, in a Cheektowaga crash, as a retired state trooper. 52-year-old Robert Binns died from injuries sustained in when his cycle was hit by a car on Union Road near William Street. Investigators say 18-year-old Jeffrey Kolacki was cited for failure to yield the right of way. Kolacki apparently didn't see the cyclist after being waved across the oncoming lane by the driver of another vehicle.
HTN: Laying the Blame for Bad Air
The New York Department of Environmental Conservation has shared the results of the Tonawanda Community Air Study. One of the conclusions made in the report is that benzene and smoke emissions form the Tonawanda Coke plant on River Road have been the likely source of irritation for nearby residents. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say long-term exposure to benzene can cause an array of harmful effects. The study looked at wind and meteorological data and pollution concentrations in four areas around the plant.
HTN: Labatt Plans More Buffalo Jobs
When New York City-based KPS bought Labatt USA last winter, it made several promises. One of those was to keep the popular Canadian beer's U.S. headquarters in Buffalo. The company hopes to double the current 20-person workforce at the downtown Buffalo office, in administrative support, marketing and sales. The Buffalo-Niagara region accounts for about three-point-three-million of the 21-million total cases Labatt sells in the U.S. annually.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Good Morning Buffalo: Fri 6/12/09
Cheryl Healton from the American Legacy Foundation on new cigarette regulations.
Matthew Tremblay from Time-Warner Cable on the DTV transition.
Our weekly visit with movie critic Michael Calleri.
Matthew Tremblay from Time-Warner Cable on the DTV transition.
Our weekly visit with movie critic Michael Calleri.
Hometown News: Capital Chaos
The coup in Albany has Senate democrats heading back to court today. Senate Republicans will try again on Monday to try and get back to work. A judge has ordered Democrats to return to court today to present further arguments as to why they believe it is not legal for one of the Democrats, State Senator Pedro Espada, to head the new coalition.
State Attorney General Andrew Cuomo says he continues to monitor the developments in Albany closely, but has yet to become involved in the political maneuvering. Senate Democrats are calling on the state's top prosecutor to investigate whether any money was offered to two renegade Senate Democrats from billionaire Tom Golisano, who helped orchestrate the Senate take over.
Police are investigating a possible break-in to the Westchester County home of state Senator Pedro Espada Junior. The state Senator says he checked in on his Mamaroneck residence on his way back from Albany on late Thursday afternoon and discovered files had been lifted from his office.
State Attorney General Andrew Cuomo says he continues to monitor the developments in Albany closely, but has yet to become involved in the political maneuvering. Senate Democrats are calling on the state's top prosecutor to investigate whether any money was offered to two renegade Senate Democrats from billionaire Tom Golisano, who helped orchestrate the Senate take over.
Police are investigating a possible break-in to the Westchester County home of state Senator Pedro Espada Junior. The state Senator says he checked in on his Mamaroneck residence on his way back from Albany on late Thursday afternoon and discovered files had been lifted from his office.
HTN: Three Schools Now Closed from H1N1
The Erie County Health Department now says the county has 100 cases of swine flu. And a third school says is closing its doors until Monday after several people there are being tested for H1N1. Oracle Charter School on Delaware Avenue closed Wednesday. Students will start taking their final exams when they return Monday. Riverside High School in Buffalo was closed for two days earlier this month, and Buffalo United Charter School also closed Wednesday. The World Health Organization declared swine flu a pandemic yesterday, the first global flu epidemic in 41 years.
HTN: Yahoo Picks Town of Lockport
Yahoo! has chosen the Town of Lockport for the site of its East Coast Data center. Officials say the site will employ 125 people. The Internet giant will present a site proposal to the Town Planning Board next week, and a public hearing is scheduled for June 30th. Yahoo! has applied for a property tax break for the proposed 190-thousand-square-foot computer service center. The facility will take an estimated 13 months to complete. Yahoo! hopes to break ground in August.
HTN: Amherst Father Accused of Threatening Toddler
Officers tasered a suspect allegedly threatening a baby with a knife early Thursday morning. Police say they were called to an apartment on Travers Circle about four in the morning on the report of a woman being beaten by her boyfriend. Cops say they found 19-year-old Jeffrey Hernandez of North Tonawanda holding the woman's six-month old baby at knifepoint. One of the officers tasered Hernandez as he was putting the knife to the baby's throat. Hernandez was arrested after dropping the baby. He faces charges of attempted murder and assault. Police say officers did not want to fire bullets fearing the baby my get hit. The tasers were just implemented a few months ago.
HTN: Hillary in WNY Saturday
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton will pause from her globe trotting to visit Western New York this weekend. Clinton will attend tomorrow's ceremony at the Rainbow Bridge in Niagara Falls to mark the 100th anniversary of the treaty which regulates waterways the US and Canada share. The event will kick off at 10 a.m. Clinton was Senator for New York for eight years before being tapped by the Obama Administration.
HTN: Hamilton Official Blasts Sabres
A politician in Hamilton, Ontario is calling on the Buffalo Sabres to support the move of a new NHL team to his city or risk a boycott. The Hamilton city councillor says the Sabres' silence has been deafening when it comes to the possible move of the Phoenix Coyotes. The Canadian lawmaker is already urging his residents to boycott the Toronto Maple Leafs for their opposition to the move.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Hometown News: Capital Chaos
The showdown in Albany continues today. Republicans plan to reconvene the state Senate after failing to meet yesterday, while disposed Senate Majority Leader Malcolm Smith goes to court. Senate Republicans and two renegade Democrats were supposed to call the new governing coalition into order yesterday, but that did not happen. Bronx Senator Pedro Espada Junior says he needed more time to attempt to sway other Democrats to join the new bipartisan caucus.
Meanwhile, Queens state Senator Hiram Monserrate held closed-door meetings with the GOP and Democrats, both courting his support. But Monserrate says he's sticking with the Senate Republicans in forming a reform government. Governor David Paterson is calling on state senators to resolve their power struggle and is pledging to work with whoever wins.
Meanwhile, Queens state Senator Hiram Monserrate held closed-door meetings with the GOP and Democrats, both courting his support. But Monserrate says he's sticking with the Senate Republicans in forming a reform government. Governor David Paterson is calling on state senators to resolve their power struggle and is pledging to work with whoever wins.
HTN: More Jobs at Goodyear Here?
Goodyear is keeping its options open to possibly move more jobs here. About 60 rubber-processing jobs rubber could shift from Akron, Ohio, to Tonawanda as the company seeks to reduce its Ohio work force. A spokesman for union workers in Ohio says if the jobs are relocated they would, in fact, go to the Tonawanda plant, as part of a union agreement.
HTN: Teen's Body Identified
Buffalo police have identified the body found at a canoe launch on the Buffalo River Tuesday in the area of Ohio and South Streets. The body was identified as 15-year-old Kowat Rual of Buffalo. He was discovered nude, and autopsy reports indicate he died of strangulation and blunt force trauma. Rual was a student at Lafayette High School. Anyone with information on the case should call TIPCALL, 847-2255.
HTN: Rochester Teens Jailed in Beating Death
Two Rochester teens remain in jail, charged with the murder of a Lockport group home counselor. Twenty-four-year-old Renee Greco was bludgeoned to death in the group home where she worked Monday night. Her family said she had been in fear for her safety since some boys at the home became angry with her and threatened her. Investigators believe Anthony Allen and Robert Thousand killed Greco, the only staffer on duty at the time, Monday night in order to cover up a weekend burglary. A wake for Greco will be held tomorrow , and there will be a prayer ceremony Saturday.
HTN: Reduced Charges in Court Bomb Scare
A Buffalo woman who says she mistakenly brought a fake grenade into the Erie County Family Court Building has pleaded guilty to a reduced charge. 24-year-old Tauyara Mapps caused a scare by carrying the gear shifter from her car, which was shaped like a grenade, through a security checkpoint at the Court. The entire building was evacuated for two hours on April 2nd. Mapps pleaded guilty to placing a fake bomb in a public place. Sentencing will be in September.
HTN: Bills Fullback Has Charges Dropped
Bills fullback Corey McIntyre is no longer facing indecent exposure charges in Florida. Prosecutors in Port Saint Lucie have dropped all charges related to an alleged incident on March 20th. Authorities say the 59-year-old female accuser could not give specifics in her allegation.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Your Money and Your Life
From 6/3/09 - hosted by Mark Stevens; discussing the auto industry bankruptcies.
Hometown News: Albany Tug-of-War
The second round of the Albany power struggle is expected to play out this afternoon. Republicans will call the state Senate back into session as the majority coalition. But the state Senate chamber remains locked with Democrats holding the keys. Democrats are vowing to take back control after the unexpected take over caught party leaders off guard. Billionaire Sabres owner Tom Golisano, who worked behind the scenes to orchestrate the political coup, says Senate Democrats should admit defeat.
Senator Dean Skelos vows to make restoring a tax cut to New York homeowners one of his first actions as Senate Majority Leader. Skelos plans to bring back the STAR program. The rebates were cut under the current state budget package to close New York's 17-billion-dollar budget gap. Skelos says new leadership was formed to turn back Democratic overspending and overtaxing.
One of the organizers behind the shake up of the state Senate could be in line for a top position. Steve Pigeon is a former Erie County Democratic Party leader who could become top counsel to Senator Pedro Espada, the Bronx Democrat who helped engineer the coup, and is now the new Senate president. Espada is currently first in line to succeed Governor Paterson, should the need arise.
Senator Dean Skelos vows to make restoring a tax cut to New York homeowners one of his first actions as Senate Majority Leader. Skelos plans to bring back the STAR program. The rebates were cut under the current state budget package to close New York's 17-billion-dollar budget gap. Skelos says new leadership was formed to turn back Democratic overspending and overtaxing.
One of the organizers behind the shake up of the state Senate could be in line for a top position. Steve Pigeon is a former Erie County Democratic Party leader who could become top counsel to Senator Pedro Espada, the Bronx Democrat who helped engineer the coup, and is now the new Senate president. Espada is currently first in line to succeed Governor Paterson, should the need arise.
HTN: FAA to Probe Regional Airlines
The FAA will examine pilot training at small regional airlines in the wake of the Flight 3407 crash. The agency announced yesterday it would immediately order inspectors to look at pilot training programs. FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt says the entire industry, from large commercial carriers to small regional operators needs to meet safety standards.
HTN: Missing Boy Found
The search for a missing Buffalo boy ended last night after two hours, when two-year-old Marqual Williams was found at a home on Moselle Street. He had been playing in the backyard of his Sobieski Street home and was reported missing around 5:20 p.m. Buffalo Police, the Erie County Sheriff's Department Air One copter and state troopers took part in the search. Police believe someone who knew his family thought he was in the yard unattended and picked him up.
HTN: UB Gets Science Grant
The University at Buffalo will aim to keep kids interested in science, engineering and technology, thanks to a quarter-million-dollar grant from National Grid. The money will be used to create a five-year program to encourage students in grades six through 12 to ponder careers in biomedical and green-energy fields. UB officials say the grant allows them to reach students early in their academic careers and get them curious about engineering jobs.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Hometown News: Albany in Chaos
Albany begins its final two weeks of its legislative session in chaos. Republicans are apparently back in control of the state Senate. Senate Republican Senator Dean Skelos says they've formed a coalition government in partnering with two renegade Democrats.
Democrats Pedro Espada Junior of the Bronx and Hiram Monserrate of Queens said they've joined with the 30 Senate Republicans in a motion that would displace Democrats as the party in control. Billionaire Sabres owner Tom Golisano reportedly assisted in uniting the new coalition in the state Senate.
Governor David Paterson blasts the coup in the capital, putting the Republicans back in charge of the state Senate. The Governor says the Republican takeover shuts down state government during the final two weeks of the legislative session and will leave several issues -- same-sex marriage, ethics reform, and property-tax reform -- unresolved. Paterson says he still recognizes Malcolm Smith as Senate Majority Leader at this time with the leadership of the Senate in dispute.
Malcolm Smith calls the move to overthrow the Democratic-led majority "illegal and unlawful." He doesn't recognize the new government. Smith plans to challenge through the courts. Democrats attempted to block the political coup in leaving the Senate chamber and shutting off the lights.
Democrats Pedro Espada Junior of the Bronx and Hiram Monserrate of Queens said they've joined with the 30 Senate Republicans in a motion that would displace Democrats as the party in control. Billionaire Sabres owner Tom Golisano reportedly assisted in uniting the new coalition in the state Senate.
Governor David Paterson blasts the coup in the capital, putting the Republicans back in charge of the state Senate. The Governor says the Republican takeover shuts down state government during the final two weeks of the legislative session and will leave several issues -- same-sex marriage, ethics reform, and property-tax reform -- unresolved. Paterson says he still recognizes Malcolm Smith as Senate Majority Leader at this time with the leadership of the Senate in dispute.
Malcolm Smith calls the move to overthrow the Democratic-led majority "illegal and unlawful." He doesn't recognize the new government. Smith plans to challenge through the courts. Democrats attempted to block the political coup in leaving the Senate chamber and shutting off the lights.
HTN: Ponzi Schemer Sentenced
Richard Piccoli has pleaded guilty to federal charges after being accused of running a multi-million dollar Ponzi scheme. Prosecutors say the 82-year-old Amherst man will likely spend the rest of his life behind bars. Piccoli admitted to felony mail fraud and tax fraud charges in federal court on Monday. He could receive up to 25 years behind bars when sentenced in October.
HTN: More Protection for State Police
New York State Police will be getting a new way to protect themselves during armed confrontations. Soon, police vehicles will be equipped with ballistic door panels meant to stop bullets. From now on, every new Ford Crown Victoria and Chevy Tahoe patrol vehicle purchased will be equipped with the new panels, made from a material that reduces the probability a bullet will go through the vehicle.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Hometown News: Cheektowaga Standoff
A six hour standoff in Cheektowaga ended peacefully yesterday with one arrest. Police responded to a violent domestic dispute call Sunday just after 9 a.m. on Pendennis Place. Autorities say a woman came out saying her boyfriend had attacked her and claimed he had a gun. In the end the SWAT team broke down a door and arrested 35-year-old Stephen Hubbard without incident. He has been charged with menacing.
HTN: Fatal Crash on Grand Island
Police continue to investigate a fatal crash on Grand Island which closed the Niagara Thruway Sunday afternoon.The 190 had to be shut down between exits 19 and 20 about 2 p.m. yesterday. At least one man is dead after he was ejected from his car, but his name has not yet been released. He was driving along the190 and slowed to avoid another vehicle when he went off the road. The man died at the scene.
HTN: Buffalo-Area Pilot in Rochester Crash
Investigators from the Federal Aviation Administration will be at the scene of a small plane crash over the weekend at Rochester's airport. Authorities say the plane took off and was in the air for about five minutes when engine failure was reported. The Buffalo-area pilot attempted to return to the airport but missed the runway. Peter Treichler of East Aurora, suffered a back injury and was released from Strong Memorial Hospital on Sunday. The crash closed the main runway at Greater Rochester International Airport for about three hours on Saturday.
HTN: Collins Blasts Paterson's Labor Agreement
Governor Paterson announced over the weekend an agreement with the Civil Service Employee Association and the Public Employees Federation. The deal reduces the state's workforce by about seven-thousand through attrition, buyouts and eliminating vacant positions. The unions will also support the governor's proposed new tier of pension benefits. The program requires newly-hired employees to continue contributing three-percent of their salaries toward pension costs for their entire careers, rather than just up to ten years of service. When the agreement is fully adopted, it will save taxpayers an estimated 440-million dollars over the next two years.
Erie County Executive Chris Collins is blasting that agreement. Collins, who promised to bring a "leaner" government to the county, says Governor Paterson caved-in to unions by saving their jobs and offering early retirement buyouts. Collins also says things like downsizing town boards does little to save money and detracts from larger financial issues. He's currently touring the state talking to several groups about the problems he sees in state government. Colls has been trumpeted as a possible Republican candidate for Governor.
Erie County Executive Chris Collins is blasting that agreement. Collins, who promised to bring a "leaner" government to the county, says Governor Paterson caved-in to unions by saving their jobs and offering early retirement buyouts. Collins also says things like downsizing town boards does little to save money and detracts from larger financial issues. He's currently touring the state talking to several groups about the problems he sees in state government. Colls has been trumpeted as a possible Republican candidate for Governor.
HTN: Pastor Demands Apology
A Buffalo pastor is demanding an apology for some allegedly racist e-mails. Reverend Darius Pridgen of the True Bethel Baptist Church in Buffalo says Lewiston-Porter School Board President Robert J. Weller regularly forwards what he considers "humorous" e-mail messages to a list of friends and fellow board members. Several of the board members have complained about the e-mails, calling them racist. Weller acknowledges the e-mails and says he did not mean to offend anyone and that he is not a racist.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Hometown News: Riverside Closed by Flu
Students at Buffalo's Riverside High School are getting an unexpected long weekend. The school is closed today and again Monday because of a flu outbreak. Officials say 19 students have complained of flu-like symptoms. The school's sites on Hertel and Ontario Avenues will reopen Tuesday after a thorough cleaning. The Erie County Health Department is running tests to see if H1NI is in play.
HTN: Downsizing Passes in West Seneca, Evans
Local governing boards in Evans and West Seneca are getting smaller. Voters in those two towns have overwhelmingly approved measures to reduce their town boards from five members to three. Supporters say the move will save taxpayers a considerable amount of money. Opponents say it concentrates power in the hands of just a few residents. Similar measures are on the November ballot in Orchard Park, Hamburg and Alden.
HTN: Hassan Trial Set for January
The trial for a husband who allegedly beheaded his wife at their Orchard Park television studio will begin in January. An Erie County judge has set January 19th for jury selection to begin. Prosecutors accuse 44-year-old Muzzammil Hassan of killing his estranged wife on February 12th. Pre-trial hearings continue in August. Hassan and his wife, 37-year-old Aasiya Zubair ran a Muslim-oriented television network called Bridges TV.
HTN: Prominent Businessman Dies
Buffalo has lost a prominent business and community leader. Joseph Goodell has died at the age of 71. Goodell was most recently on the Erie County Control Board, and was the head of American Brass in the 1980's, credited with turning that company around. Goodell then went on to become executive director of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra.
HTN: Judge Rules that Taser-Obtained DNA is OK
A ruling by a Niagara County judge is the first in the U.S. to allow TASER-aquired DNA to be used as evidence. Judge Sara Sheldon Sperrazza says it is legal for a police officer to use a TASER on a suspect to obtain a DNA sample, as long as it's not done, quote, "maliciously, or to an excessive extent, or with resulting injury." A DNA sample obtained last September from 21-year-old Ryan Smith is now legally valid and can be used in connection with an alleged shooting and gas station robbery.
HTN: Former Buffalo Brave Dies
A homegrown basketball star who played for both Buffalo State and the Buffalo Braves has died. Former guard Randy Smith passed away at his Norwich, Connecticut home at the age of 60, of an apparent heart attack. He was a three-sport All-American at Buffalo State College and an NBA All Star with the Buffalo Braves. Smith played basketball, soccer and ran track at Buffalo State, and was a seventh-round draft pick of the Braves in 1971. He was named MVP of the 1978 NBA All-Star game, in the last season the Braves played in Buffalo. Smith had stayed connected to the Buffalo community through his Randy Smith Summer Basketball League.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Your Money and Your Life 5/27/09
Hosted by Mark Stevens, discussing the tools used by our elders that lead to a secure stress freee retirement.
HTN: Bottle Bill Bumped
New York State's effort to add deposit fees to bottled water has been delayed until April of next year. A federal judge has put the measure on hold after bottlers argued they were not given enough time to comply. The delay means that 115-million dollars in revenues to the state will have to wait. Environmentalists blasted the decision saying the nearly one year set back will put billions of plastic bottles into the garbage system instead of recycling.
Hometown News: Business First School Report
A study by "Business First" shows that female Western New York public school students have an edge over their male counterparts. Girls outnumber boys in the ranks of "elite students," with the 100 members of the Business First 2009 All-Western New York Academic Team consisting of 62 girls and 38 boys. New York State testing also showed that girls did better than boys in all 98 Western New York school districts.
That Business First report shows that Amherst's Smallwood Drive School is the region's top-performing elementary school for the third year in a row in the total of Rounding out the top five are South Davis ES of Orchard Park, Maple East ES in Williamsville, Southern Tier Catholic School in Olean and Charlotte Avenue ES of Hamburg. Coming in last was Potters Road School in West Seneca.
That Business First report shows that Amherst's Smallwood Drive School is the region's top-performing elementary school for the third year in a row in the total of Rounding out the top five are South Davis ES of Orchard Park, Maple East ES in Williamsville, Southern Tier Catholic School in Olean and Charlotte Avenue ES of Hamburg. Coming in last was Potters Road School in West Seneca.
HTN: County Control Board Goes Soft
The Erie County Fiscal Stability Authority has gone from "hard" to "soft". The County control board has scaled back it powers to soft advisory status now that county finances are in a better position. The past four years the control board had strict oversight of the county's books. The board gave the thumbs-up to a four-year financial plan presented by Erie ounty Executive Chris Collins, meaning the control board will no longer need to approve major financial decisions by the county. Collins hopes the change will boost the county's economy. In 2004 the county was plagued with a nearly eleven-million dollar deficit. Since then, it has turned into a 46-million dollar surplus. Control board members stress that budget gaps are still looming in the near future.
Missing Off-Duty Cop Found
A missing Buffalo police officer has been found alive near his home. Inspector David Andrews was found just before 10:30 last night near in Kaisertown. Andrews had left home to walk his dogs and was last seen in the Clinton Street/Mineral Springs area around 2 p.m. Both dogs returned to the home. An Erie County Sheriff's helicopter was dispatched to help Buffalo and West Seneca police with the search, which was centered around river and creek beds were Andrews reportedly usually walked the dogs.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Good Morning Buffalo: Auto Industry
Loraine and Tom talk with NFADA President Paul Stasiak about the WNY effects of the GM bankruptcy.
HTN: Downsizing Votes Set
Voters in two Western New York towns will hit the polls tomorrow to determine if their local governments should be downsized. West Seneca and Evans will ask voters to drop their town boards from five members down to three. Supporters say the move would save on salaries and benefits. Opponents say it concentrates power in the hands of just a few people. Orchard Park, Alden and Hamburg have similar votes set for November and more could be on the way.
Hometown: More Layoffs Loom, but Engine Plant Stays Open
Workers at the GM engine plant in Tonawanda are gearing up for layoffs, a day after General Motors filed for bankruptcy protection. The plant manager in Tonawanda says 25 to 30-percent of the nearly 900 workforce at the site could face pink slips. GM is phasing out two engines built in Tonawanda, and already has 360 hourly workers on layoff. The automaker plans to close several assembly and stamping plants in the effort to reemerge as a smaller, leaner company.
HTN: Higher Scores on Math Tests
Buffalo students are scoring higher on state Math tests. Sixty-three-percent of Buffalo Public Schools third through eighth graders scored at or above the state standard. That number was just 29-percent last year. Across New York, 86-point-four-percent of students in grades three through eight achieved the passing-standard this year, compared with just 80-point-seven-percent in 2008.
HTN:Big Schools Pay Big Bucks
Western New York's biggest school districts pay their administrators and teachers big bucks. A "Business First" analysis of the eight-county region shows that ten Western New York school districts have over five-thousand students each, with an average superintendent salary of 173,680-dollars. Niagara Falls and Williamsville top the list for classroom teacher base-pay, with about 42-thousand-dollars-a-year in both districts. Williamsville's median salary is 63,918-dollars for classroom teachers. The Buffalo superintendent takes home 220-thousand a year, while the top educator in Williamsville grabs 206,500 dollars.
HTN: Local Trees Could Face Beetle Problem
Officials are warning residents about the Asian longhorned beetle. The bug is the latest threat to trees in the northeast. Forestry officials hope this early warning will help keep New York from being the next victims of the bugs which are already making their way steadily through Massachusetts. The beetles can be identified by their big black and white spotted bodies and long antennae.
HTN: Aud Artifacts Going to Hockey Hall
Memorial Auditorium is almost a memory, but twoorange seats, the original 1939 construction blueprints, and several other pieces of memorabilia will be enshrined at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto. Mayor Byron Brown will present the seats to Hall of Fame representatives.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Hometown News: GM Files for Bankruptcy
General Motors officially filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy this morning. The nation's largest automaker will be receiving another 30-billion dollars from the U.S. Treasury as part of its filing. The government will have over 50-billion dollars invested in the automaker. The American and Canadian governments will own 72-percent of the company. Meanwhile, a bankruptcy judge has approved the deal allowing Chrysler LLC to sell most of its assets to Italian automaker Fiat.
HTN: New Day at the Border
Beginning today, travelers will need a passport to cross the border. The new rules apply to everyone, including children, and are part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. The requirements were put into place by the Bush administration in the wake of the 9-11 terrorist attacks, and will finally be implemented after being delayed for several years. Border officials say if you do forget you passport you won’t be held in jail. Once US citizenship is established you will be released with a warning. Border patrols are expecting things to run smoothly today as they say they have been preparing for the transition for some time.
HTN: Three Dead in Falls
Three people found dead in a Niagara Falls home Saturday afternoon have been identified. Twenty-seven-year-old William Jakobi, 25-year-old Victoria Eikenburg and 22-year-old Adam Tafelski were discovered in a Caravelle Drive home. Police believe they may have died from accidental overdoses. Autopsies are set for this morning at ECMC.
HTN: Loose Dog Causes Dismay in Alden
A loose dog and some scared kids are the reason two Village of Alden men went to jail. Police received a report of a loose German Shepherd reportedly threatening children in the Seabrook Drive neighborhood. They arrived and were able to get all the children safely indoors, but 42-year-old Kenneth Hicks allegedly drove his truck down recklessly the street to confront the dog and its owner. Timothy Bentz also came outside with a bow and arrow at one point. Hicks has been charged with reckless endangerment, while Bentz faces a menacing charge. The dog was picked up by Alden dog control.
HTN: Buffalo Convention Business Mixed So Far
The Buffalo Niagara Convention & Visitors Bureau says convention business is up, but visitor count is down. The organization says 108 new conventions, meetings, special events or amateur sporting events have been booked since the beginning of the year. That's a 27-percent increase for the 85 during the same time last year. Potential visitor bookings, however, are down by 24-point-three-percent from last year. The CVB is working with 180 new groups; that could bring 88-thousand-575 visitors to the area.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Good Morning Buffalo: Fri 5/29/09
Weekly visit with movie critic Michael Calleri: Tyson and What Goes Up.
Fox News Radio's Sabrina Sabbagh on Jay Leno's last Tonight Show.
Fox News Radio's Sabrina Sabbagh on Jay Leno's last Tonight Show.
HTN: FBI Says Lackawanna Case Still On Front Burner
The Lackawanna Six terrorist case has not been forgotten by FBI Director Robert Mueller. Mueller was in Buffalo Thursday receiving briefings on cases underway in the Western New York area. Jaber Elbaneh is accused of being one of the leaders and recruiters of six Lackawanna men who were put behind bars for attending Al-Qaeda training camps in 2001. Mueller says Elbaneh is in his native country of Yemen and is listed as one of the world's 24 most wanted terrorists. Yemen has refused to extradite him to the US. A five-million dollar reward is being offered for his capture.
HTN: Buffalo Citybration is Coming
Buffalo is planning four days of Homecoming events to showcase the highlights of the city. The activities include a gala reception, parade, job fair and live music. City officials say the idea is to keep the best and brightest in Buffalo and encourage others to come back. The Citybration will take place from June 25th through the 28th. Similar events will be held in Niagara Falls during the same time period.
HTN: Buffalo-Cheektowaga Border Talks
Residents on the Buffalo and Cheektowaga border talked about safety at an open forum Wednesday night. Residents discussed ways to improve the streets and neighborhoods. Police, judges and town officials outlined initiatives such as more foot patrols and ways to spruce up vacant homes. The meeting was set up by the Buffalo Cheektowaga Neighborhood Revitalization Task Force which is investigating ways for the border areas to work together
HTN: Bison Ballpark Smoke-Free
If you want to smoke at Buffalo Bisons games, you'll have to take it outside the stadium. The team has announced that Coca-Cola Field is now 100-percent smoke free. Previously, smokers could light up on the club level balcony. The Bisons say they had complaints from fans that the smoke drifted to other sections of the stands. Now, if you want to puff away, you'll have to do so in a designated spot outside the stadium on Washington Street, where re-entry is permitted to get back to your seat. The team says the smoking ban will add to the enjoyment of the game.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Hometown News: Digging Up Depew
A major Environmental Protection Agency cleanup is aimed at removing lead-contaminated soil from dozens of Depew yards. The EPA is removing trees and shrubs and digging up flower beds, on 66 properties between Transit Road and Walden Avenue that have been contaminated, mostly with lead, by former industrial plants nearby. The work will cost about four-and-a-half-million dollars, and take about two years to finish.
HTN: Cameras Catch Murder Suspect
Buffalo police detectives are crediting surveillance cameras near a murder scene for helping nab a suspect. Recently-graduated UB student Javon Jackson was shot to death just hours after receiving his electrical engineering degree. 20-year-old DaMario Cordelius of Amherst has been charged with second-degree murder. Jackson lived with 21-year-old Jesse Garnett, who was murdered last week in Amherst, though police don't think the incidents are connected.
HTN: Tragic Crash in Niagara County
Two people are dead following a crash in northern Niagara County. The tragic accident occurred at 10:30 AM yesterday at the intersection of Ransomville Road and Youngstown-Wilson Road. Investigators say a family of German tourists was riding in a motorhome which missed a stop sign and collided with an SUV. The woman in the front passenger seat of the RV was killed, as was the driver of the SUV, a man from Porter. Three others were injured.
HTN: GOP Picks Comptroller Candidate
On the same day Democratic Erie County Comptroller Mark Poloncarz kicked off his reelection bid, Erie County Republicans have announced their candidate. The GOP is backing 66-year-old Philip Kadet of East Aurora. Kadet worked for 31 years at Lumsden and McCormick Financial Services. County Republican Chairman James Domagalski says that experience will help Kadet run the county like a business.
HTN: Bottle Bill Delayed by Lawsuit
It may be at least a few more months before you have to fork over an extra nickel for bottled water. A federal judge has put the new law on hold for the time being, after the International Bottled Water Association filed a lawsuit. The group claimed there was not enough time given to bottlers to enact the measure. The so-called "bigger better bottle bill" could be pushed back anywhere from July until October.
Hometown Sports: Judge to Decide if Coyotes Can Move
The U.S. Bankruptcy Court could soon decide whether the Phoenix Coyotes can be sold and moved to Southern Ontario. The decision could come as soon as June 9th, and could dictate whether the team can move to Hamilton, Ontario or stay in Arizona. The move could negatively impact the Buffalo Sabres, who earn an estimated 20-percent of their revenues from the Southern Ontario market. The Coyotes recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Your Money and Your Life 5/20/09
Hosted by Mark Stevens: "Power Play" - attorney Ed Robinson calls in to discuss the use of Power Of Attorney
Hometown News: Search for Amherst Suspect
Amherst police continue searching for a possible suspect in connection with killing Sunday night. Authorities say the hunt is on for 24-year-old Andre Ridgeway. Investigators want to speak to him regarding the shooting death of 21-year-old Jesse Garnettt in an apartment on Yale Avenue. Authorities say Garnett was shot about 9:30 Sunday night and died a short time later at Erie County Medical Center. Police are urging anyone with information on Ridgeway's whereabouts to call authorities. However, cops say he should be considered armed and dangerous. Investigators are still trying to piece together the alleged incident but say they do not believe it was a random attack.
HTN: Commission Recommends County Downsizing
A commission impaneled by the Erie County Legislature has recommended shrinking the governing body from 15 members down to 11. The "21st Century Commission" also is suggesting county lawmakers run for four-year terms instead of the current two years. But the special commission did not recommend staggering the terms, so the entire Legislature would be up for re-election at the same time. The changes now head to the county lawmakers for approval. Ultimately, the issue could go to voters this November with any changes taking place in 2011.
HTN: City Looks to Sync Red Lights
Buffalo drivers tired of traffic nightmares may be getting some relief. The City is borrowing nearly two-million dollars to synchronize traffic signals. The one-point-eight-million dollars will be used to create better traffic flow at 170 additional signals. The past two years, city officials have been working to get cars running more smoothly. So far, 100 lights have had changes in timing. Mayor Byron Brown says the city is looking for federal stimulus money to work on all 660 lights. City officials hope to have the synchronization finished by the end of next year.
HTN: Lawnmowers Get City Refund
The great Buffalo lawmowing controversy of 2008 may finally be resolved. The Common Council has agreed to refund more than 200 homeowners money paid for improper tickets. The residents were fined incorrectly for letting their grass grow too high in their yards. Nearly 39-thousand dollars in refunds has been agreed upon by members of the Common Council because police used the wrong codes for issuing the tickets. Most of the summonses were for 150 dollars but some folks got hit with multiple tickets.
HTN: M&T Completes Acquisition
Buffalo-based M&T Bank Corp. has finished its acquisition of Baltimore-based Provident Bankshares Corp. The 401-million-dollar deal was closed over the weekend and ups M&T's presence in Maryland. It includes the addition of 135 bank branches and 190 ATMs. The acquisition will eliminate 520 Provident jobs, but will give those employees first pick of vacant M&T positions. With the acquisition, there are now over 800 M&T branches and over 18-hundred ATMS throughout Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington, DC and West Virginia.
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