Niagara Falls Police are investigating a serious crash that left a 65-year-old city resident in critical condition Friday morning. The collision occurred around 9:57am on October 3rd at the intersection of 4th Street and Ferry Avenue. According to police, a 46-year-old employee of the City of Niagara Falls was operating a city-owned 2025 Ford Escape northbound on 4th Street. As the driver turned east onto Ferry Avenue, the vehicle struck an electric bicycle. Investigators say the bicyclist was traveling westbound on Ferry Avenue, which is designated as a one-way street for eastbound traffic. The impact caused the man to suffer severe blunt force trauma to his head. It is unknown if he suffered a skull fracture or a brain bleed. He was transported by AMR Ambulance to Erie County Medical Center where he remains in the Trauma Intensive Care Unit in critical condition. Police reported that the driver of the Ford is cooperating fully with investigators. The case is being handled by the department’s Crash Investigation Unit and charges may be filed pending the outcome of their review. Niagara Falls Man in Critical Condition After City Vehicle Strikes E-bike Operator

Governor Kathy Hochul is once again aiming her fire at Republicans in Washington, accusing them of bowing to Donald Trump while critical federal funding for New York hangs in the balance. Instead of outlining concrete steps to safeguard jobs, infrastructure projects, or counterterrorism dollars, Hochul chose to attack GOP lawmakers, raising questions about whether her focus is more on political blame than problem-solving. Hochul’s comments came as the federal government entered a partial shutdown. She singled out seven New York Republicans - Elise Stefanik, Mike Lawler, Nick LaLota, Andrew Garbarino, Nick Langworthy, Claudia Tenney, and Nicole Malliotakis - for what she called surrender to Trump’s demands. “Meet the seven New York Republicans who bowed to Donald Trump and let him defund our police and firefighters, kick New Yorkers off their health care, and freeze job-creating infrastructure projects,” Hochul said in a video message. “They have enough numbers. They have the power. And instead of exercising their power they literally bow down to Trump. Literally taking from the poor to give to the rich,” she added. Her remarks came just days after she appeared at another Democratic rally in New York City where critics say she focused more on attacking Trump than addressing how her administration will handle the fallout of the shutdown. Republican lawmakers have pushed back. Rep. Andrew Garbarino who chairs the House Committee on Homeland Security, acknowledged the counterterrorism cuts were dangerous but pointed the finger back at Democrats. “House Republicans did our job, passing a clean CR to extend government funding,” Garbarino said. “Democrats are holding your tax dollars hostage for a $1.5 trillion partisan spending hike. Time for Senate Democrats to stop playing politics and do their jobs.” While Hochul blames Trump and GOP lawmakers, critics note that former Gov. Andrew Cuomo had stepped in with state funding during a previous shutdown to prevent disruption to projects and services, something Hochul has not committed to doing. Hochul’s partisan attacks may score political points, but they leave New Yorkers still waiting for answers. Hochul Blames New York Republicans for Siding With Trump in Shutdown Fight

Authorities say a Niagara County woman was taken into custody during a Darien Lake concert featuring the rock band Falling In Reverse. According to the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, the 24-year-old from North Tonawanda was arrested shortly before 8pm on September 29th. Deputies say she had been ejected from the venue earlier in the evening but attempted to re-enter, leading to a trespassing charge. The woman was later released with an appearance ticket and is scheduled to face Darien Town Court on October 15th. The Sheriff’s Office also noted that her arrest followed two others made the previous night during the Suicide Boys concert at the same venue. Those individuals are also expected to appear in court on October 15th. Niagara County Woman Arrested at Darien Lake Concert

A man’s body was pulled from the water at the Foot of Ferry in Buffalo on Wednesday evening following a multi-agency response. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, the individual was seen jumping into the Black Rock Canal from the I-190 bridge at approximately 7:27pm. A rescue crew from Coast Guard Station Buffalo was immediately dispatched to the area. Local agencies also joined the response. Buffalo Police and Fire units were on scene along with members of the New York State Police. A spokesperson for the City of Buffalo confirmed that the Underwater Rescue Team was activated and the Buffalo Police Homicide Unit was notified. Authorities have not yet released the identity of the man recovered. An investigation into the incident remains ongoing. Body Recovered from Water After Reported Jump from I-190 Bridge

The partial shutdown of the federal government has reignited political tensions in New York as Governor Kathy Hochul announced she would not allocate state funds to keep the Statue of Liberty open during the funding crisis. The move, first reported by The New York Times, represents a sharp contrast to her predecessor Andrew Cuomo who in 2018 stepped in to ensure the nation’s most iconic monument remained accessible when a similar budget impasse occurred. Instead of offering state support, Hochul shifted blame to Republicans in Washington, characterizing their actions as “cruel and senseless.” In her statement, she argued that “if Lady Liberty’s iconic torch goes dark, it will be thanks to the Washington Republicans who refused common sense and abandoned the people they were elected to represent.” While Hochul placed responsibility squarely on the GOP, critics point out that the shutdown followed a Democratic-led rejection of a stopgap bill that would have extended federal funding until November 21st. In fact, all but three Senate Democrats voted against the temporary measure, directly paving the way for the shutdown. The governor’s refusal to follow Cuomo’s example has raised questions about her priorities and leadership. During the 2018 shutdown, Cuomo used state funds to preserve operations at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island recognizing their importance not only as cultural and historical landmarks but also as vital contributors to New York’s economy. Last year alone, more than 3.7 million people visited the Statue of Liberty generating significant tourism revenue for the state. Allowing the site to close, even temporarily, would deliver both an economic hit and a symbolic setback at a time when New York businesses continue to recover from financial strain. The governor has stressed the damage a prolonged shutdown could cause, but her unwillingness to use state resources to keep open one of America’s most enduring symbols has left many wondering whether she is more interested in politics than solutions. Hochul Refuses to Fund Statue of Liberty During Shutdown, Putting Landmark at Risk

The City of Buffalo is seeking to put an end to the wrongful death lawsuit filed after the tragic death of firefighter Jason Arno who lost his life battling a fire in the city’s Theater District in March 2023. City attorneys recently filed both a motion to dismiss and a motion for summary judgment aiming to have the case resolved without moving to trial. A summary judgment would allow the court to rule on key issues based on established facts and law without a jury weighing disputed evidence. The motions highlight the sharp legal battle that has emerged following the fire, which investigators later determined was accidental. Arno’s widow, Sarah Tierney, initiated the lawsuit alleging negligence on the part of the city and the Buffalo Fire Department in her husband’s death. The complaint also names JP Contracting of Western New York and 743 Main Street LLC as defendants. The dispute is scheduled to return to court next week where a judge will consider the city’s motion. Buffalo Moves to Dismiss Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Firefighter Jason Arno Case

On October 2nd at approximately 7:42am deputies with the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office were investigating a fatal motor vehicle accident involving a pedestrian near 2335 Niagara Falls Boulevard in the Town of Wheatfield. During the investigation, all northbound traffic was rerouted to preserve the integrity of the crash scene and to allow emergency personnel to safely operate. While traffic control measures were in place, authorities observed a red 2010 Chevrolet bypassing Fire Police, emergency vehicles, and traffic controls. The vehicle then began traveling northbound in the southbound lane of Niagara Falls Boulevard. Deputies quickly intervened and directed the driver to pull into a driveway. The driver, identified as Christopher Seelbaugh, was taken into custody following an investigation. He was charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle While Impaired by Drugs, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation 3rd Degree, and multiple traffic infractions. Officials indicated that additional charges may be forthcoming. Seelbaugh was transported to the Niagara County Correctional Facility where he awaits arraignment in CAP Court. He is scheduled to appear in Wheatfield Town Court at a later date. Christopher Seelbaugh Arrested for Driving Drunk Through Fatal Crash Scene in Niagara County

Governor Kathy Hochul is facing a new wave of opposition from within her own party as forty liberal Democrats in the state Legislature signed a letter Tuesday urging her to reject two natural gas pipeline projects that have long been opposed in New York. The lawmakers, led by state Sen. Lea Webb and Assemblymember Anna Kelles, called on Hochul to block the Northeast Supply Enhancement (NESE) and Constitution pipelines, both backed by Williams Companies, which they say would cause irreversible harm to New York’s environment and lock the state into decades of reliance on fossil fuels. “New York must stand firmly behind our state’s environmental protection standards and for our sovereign authority on this issue granted under section 401 of the federal Clean Water Act,” the letter states. “Rather than allowing President Trump to undermine state authority by welcoming these gas pipelines, we urge you to be a bulwark in protecting the water, environment, and health for New Yorkers, and we will stand with you in doing so.” The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) previously denied permits for both projects in 2019 and 2020 citing water quality concerns. Opponents argue those concerns remain unchanged, warning that NESE would stir up toxic contaminants and threaten marine habitats while the Constitution pipeline would cut across more than 250 waterways in Upstate New York. “These gas pipelines are a very bad deal for New Yorkers,” the letter continues. “Despite President Trump and the gas industry’s inflated claims, these pipelines will NOT make energy more affordable. In fact, the reverse is true: ratepayers will ultimately pay for the pipelines and likely end up paying higher rates.” The lawmakers noted that National Grid estimates customers in New York City and Long Island would see bills increase by 3.5% if NESE moves forward. The pressure campaign comes as Hochul has appeared to hedge on her position. Earlier this year, the White House suggested she privately signaled support for reviving the projects in exchange for President Trump lifting a stop-work order on a New York wind energy project. While Hochul has not admitted to such a deal, she has repeatedly leaned on her “all of the above” approach to energy, stressing that the DEC will act within the scope of the law. Her hedging has only deepened the criticism. Even her own lieutenant governor, Antonio Delgado, who has launched a primary challenge against her, has joined progressives in denouncing the pipelines. Despite the strong opposition, Hochul has not ruled the projects out. The state Public Service Commission gave its backing to NESE just two weeks ago, though the project still requires DEC approval. The state’s Energy Research and Development Agency has warned that New York is unlikely to meet its ambitious emissions reduction goals without relying on natural gas in the short term. For critics, that’s exactly the problem. “We urge you to preserve water quality and protect energy affordability by preventing unnecessary rate increases and damage to ecosystems vital to our economy,” the Democrats’ letter concludes. It is unknown what Hochul will do, or if she will publicly state a position, as she gears up for reelection in 2026. Liberal Democrats Demand Hochul Block Gas Pipelines Citing Energy Agenda

A pedestrian was struck and killed early Thursday morning in a crash on Niagara Falls Boulevard in the Town of Wheatfield, according to the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities said that at 6:44am on October 2nd the Sheriff’s Office Communications Center received multiple 911 calls reporting a vehicle-pedestrian accident on the busy roadway. Preliminary findings indicate that a 2021 Jeep SUV was traveling northbound on Niagara Falls Boulevard when it hit a pedestrian. Deputies said the victim sustained traumatic injuries from the collision and was pronounced dead at the scene. The identity of the pedestrian is being withheld until next of kin are notified. The driver of the Jeep remained at the scene and is cooperating fully with investigators, officials said. The Niagara County Sheriff’s Office Accident Investigation Unit and Criminal Investigation Bureau are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. No further details are available at this time. Pedestrian Killed in Early Morning Crash in Niagara County

New York’s driver’s license policies are once again under fire after it was revealed that the state issued a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to a migrant without requiring a first name. The controversy erupted after Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt disclosed that one of the men swept up in a raid involving 125 illegal immigrants was carrying a New York CDL that listed “No Name Given” in place of his first and middle names. “If New York wants to hand out CDLs to illegal immigrants with ‘No Name Given,’ that’s on them. The moment they cross into Oklahoma, they answer to our laws,” Stitt said Monday in a post on social media. The Republican governor shared a photograph of the license, which New York officials later confirmed was authentic. Walter McLure, a spokesman for the New York Department of Motor Vehicles, admitted the CDL had been issued on April 14th with an expiration date in 2028. He insisted the process followed state protocols. “This commercial driver’s license was issued in accordance with all proper procedures, including verification of the individual’s identity through federally issued documentation,” McLure said. He further claimed the recipient held “lawful status” through a federal work authorization and was eligible for a license under federal rules. But McLure sidestepped key questions, including which program the individual was in, or what documents were actually used to confirm his identity. Instead, the DMV tried to deflect, saying, “It is not uncommon for individuals from other countries to have only one name.” New York has refused to disclose how many other licenses might have been issued under similar circumstances. When pressed on how they could identify the person referenced in Stitt’s post, the DMV admitted, “We know who this person is based solely on the information in the picture of the tweet.” Even more troubling, DMV officials refused to say whether New York is cooperating with Oklahoma authorities in their investigation. Stitt’s office noted that during the sweep, law enforcement “encountered numerous commercial truck drivers operating with licenses issued by sanctuary states, including one license listing ‘No Name Given.’” The governor’s office said 125 illegal immigrants were taken into custody, describing the situation as a direct threat to public safety. “These individuals posed a public safety risk by operating 80,000-pound commercial vehicles without proper verification.” The man at the center of this incident has not been publicly identified and it remains unclear whether he is in custody or facing charges. What is clear is that New York’s policies once again leave serious questions about the state’s handling of migrant drivers and vehicle safety. Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY), who is positioning herself for a 2026 gubernatorial run, wasted no time criticizing Hochul. “At every opportunity, Kathy Hochul has turned her back on New Yorkers to bend the knee to the radical Far Left of the Democrat Party that puts illegals and criminals first and hardworking law-abiding New Yorkers last,” Stefanik said. The controversy comes against the backdrop of ongoing litigation over New York’s so-called “green light law,” which allows non-citizens to obtain state driver’s licenses. Earlier this year, President Trump’s Department of Justice sued Hochul’s administration calling the measure a “frontal assault” on federal immigration enforcement. That case is still making its way through the courts. The DMV’s own website states that commercial driver’s licenses cannot be obtained under the green light law. Yet this case demonstrates that federal employment authorization loopholes are being used to grant CDLs even when basic identifiers like a first name are absent. Hochul, for her part, has refused to answer for the decision. Her office declined to comment and instead pointed reporters back to the DMV’s statement. The governor’s silence stands in stark contrast to her earlier political career. When she served as Erie County clerk and ran for Congress, Hochul took a very different position. “I led the fight against giving illegal immigrants driver’s licenses,” she once declared in a campaign ad. That was then. Now, as governor, Hochul oversees a system where a commercial driver can legally take the wheel of an 80,000-pound truck in another state with a New York-issued license that literally identifies him as “No Name Given.” Hochul Silent as New York Issues Commercial Driver’s License to Migrant with No Name

The federal government is once again in partial shutdown and Democrats in Congress chose brinkmanship over governance. In their standoff with President Donald Trump and Republicans, Democrats failed to secure any meaningful concessions. The outcome is the same as ever: services labeled “nonessential” are unfunded, federal workers are furloughed, and the public is left caught in the crossfire of Washington dysfunction. New York Democrats flocked to New York City this week to stage a political rally. Governor Kathy Hochul stood alongside Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and Attorney General Letitia James in what amounted to little more than political theater. Hochul tried to score points with the base by recycling Trump’s famous line, declaring, “I’m sad to say this but America has not been made great again.” It was a revealing comment. Instead of owning up to her party’s failures, Hochul used the rally to throw barbs, ignoring the reality that her administration in Albany faces crises of its own from declining public safety to a tax-and-spend culture driving businesses and families out of the state. For Schumer, the shutdown could not have come at a worse time. He already faces sagging popularity, with the Siena Research Institute recording his lowest favorability rating in twenty years at just 39%. Schumer’s decision to go along with a stopgap deal earlier in the year angered progressives in his caucus, but his poll numbers show that playing both sides has left him weakened. Hochul’s full-throated defense of Schumer only ties her further to a political brand in decline. James, meanwhile, tried to frame the shutdown as proof of Republican recklessness. “This shutdown is just another example of chaos and confusion and pain for New Yorkers,” she said. Yet James’s track record hardly suggests competence. She arrived at the rally celebrating a temporary pause in federal funding cuts after suing the Department of Homeland Security. The reality is that New York has been swimming in counterterrorism and homeland security funds for years. According to DHS, the state has received more than $3.6 billion since the creation of the Urban Area Security Initiative, accounting for nearly a third of all funds nationally. Yet $1.6 billion in those funds remain unspent, much of it sitting idle in New York. A DHS statement noted bluntly that “fraud, waste and abuse” has plagued the program and that FEMA would now focus on better oversight. In other words, while James and Hochul attempt to posture as defenders of New York, their mismanagement of existing resources is already well documented. Their habit of crying foul whenever federal dollars are scrutinized has become a political strategy. It is easier to blame Trump and Republicans than to explain why billions remain untouched or poorly allocated under their leadership. Hochul’s decision to align herself so tightly with Schumer and James may haunt her politically. She has struggled with weak approval ratings and mounting criticism from suburban voters who feel alienated by her embrace of progressive policies. Her offhand jab about Trump’s slogan – “America has not been made great again” – may please liberals, but will resonate poorly with moderates and independents. James, for her part, continues to wield her office as a political weapon. Her long crusade against Trump has made her a darling of the Democratic left. Rising crime rates and legal scandals only add to the growing perception that state Democrats are better at stoking partisan battles than addressing the issues their constituents actually face. Hochul and James Rally as Shutdown Exposes Democratic Failures

A photojournalist with Turkey’s Anadolu Agency, L. Vural Elibol, was hospitalized on Tuesday, September 30th, after an encounter with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents inside 26 Federal Plaza. The incident occurred around 10:15am on the 12th floor of the building where reporters were present to document ongoing arrests. Video from journalists shows two women entering an elevator followed by masked plainclothes ICE agents. Dean Moses, amNewYork’s police bureau chief, attempted to step into the elevator when agents intervened. One agent inside the elevator was heard shouting, “Get out of the fucking elevator,” as reported by Documented. In the commotion outside, freelance photographer Olga Fedorova, on assignment for the Associated Press, was pushed to the ground. Her fall knocked into Elibol, who struck his head on the tile floor. “People immediately started screaming because he was seriously injured,” Moses told amNewYork. He added that Elibol was “semiconscious, but he didn’t move for 35 to 40 minutes.” Photos published by Documented showed Elibol lying on the ground before being carried out on a stretcher with a neck brace. The Department of Homeland Security released a statement offering its perspective on the events. DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said, “officers were swarmed by agitators and members of the press, which obstructed operations” to arrest “an illegal alien from Peru.” She emphasized that officers “repeatedly told the crowd of agitators and journalists to get back, move, and get out of the elevator.” McLaughlin also criticized outside interference, stating that “rioters and sanctuary politicians who encourage individuals to interfere with arrests” were “actively creating hostile environments that put officers, detainees and the public in harm’s way.” Some journalists present disputed that account. Moses told amNewYork that there were “no agitators or any members of the press preventing them from doing anything.” Fedorova also said to the Associated Press that ICE agents had not established a media perimeter or clarified that an arrest was underway as they entered the elevator. “If they tell us to get out, to not cross a certain line, we follow their orders. In this case, it was not clear to anyone that this was a detention at all,” she explained. The incident came just days after another video from the same building showed a federal officer pushing an Ecuadorian woman against a wall as she asked about her detained husband. That officer was briefly suspended before being reinstated on Monday, according to local reports. Reactions to Tuesday’s episode spread quickly on social media. New York City Comptroller Brad Lander posted, “Another violent attack by an ICE officer on a civilian at 26 Federal Plaza — this time on a journalist, who had to be carried out on a stretcher.” He described the event as “another attack on the First Amendment, our neighbors, and our democracy.” Governor Kathy Hochul also weighed in, saying, “This abuse of law-abiding immigrants and the reporters telling their stories must end,” and adding, “What the hell are we doing here?” ICE Agents Blamed After Journalist Injured While Arresting Migrant

A Niagara Falls resident is facing federal charges after being accused of conspiring to traffic methamphetamine and illegally possessing a firearm. On Tuesday, prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York announced that a grand jury indicted 70-year-old Charles Barker on multiple counts. The charges include narcotics conspiracy, attempted possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute the same amount, and being a felon in possession of both a firearm and ammunition. The indictment carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, up to life imprisonment, and a fine that could reach $10 million if Barker is convicted. Federal officials allege that between June 11th and June 17th, Barker worked with others to obtain large quantities of methamphetamine delivered to his home in Niagara Falls. Prosecutors further accuse him of distributing the drugs from his residence. According to investigators, a search warrant executed on June 17th by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service led to the discovery of “large amounts of methamphetamine, along with drug paraphernalia and a large amount of cash.” Authorities also reported seizing a shotgun and ammunition. Court records show that Barker was convicted of a felony in Niagara County Court in April 2012 making it unlawful for him to possess firearms or ammunition. Barker appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah McCarthy on Tuesday where he pleaded not guilty. McCarthy released him under home confinement while the case moves forward. Charles Barker from Niagara Falls Man Indicted on Federal Drug and Firearm Charges

Empire State Development and the City of Niagara Falls have finalized agreements for the first four of 38 properties slated for redevelopment in the city’s Bridge District. Among them is the long-vacant four-story Jenss Department Store on Main Street, once a prominent retail hub in the community. The initiative marks the beginning of a larger plan to redevelop the north Main Street area with a mix of ownership and new uses, building upon the state’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative. As part of this effort, Empire State Development awarded the Niagara Falls Urban Renewal Agency (URA) $2.5 million to reimburse costs for property purchases, building stabilization, and developer recruitment tied to all 38 properties. The developers named for the first four sites are: 1708 Main Street, LLC for the former Jenss Department Store at 1708 Main Street; Develop Niagara, Inc. for both a vacant lot at 717 Division Avenue and a historic home at 723 Division Avenue; NFNHA Holdings, LLC for the former church at 1509 Main Street; and RJ Niagara, LLC for the former bar and nightclub at 2109 Main Street. Earlier this year, the URA purchased the 38 properties from Bank on Buffalo. Since then, the agency has worked with ESD, the Niagara County Industrial Development Agency, and the Niagara Orleans Land Improvement Corporation to stabilize the buildings. Many properties have been cleaned out and secured while others are slated for roof and masonry repairs to protect them through the coming winter. The former Jenss building, to be rehabilitated by 1708 Main Street, LLC, has a long history in the city. Established in the early 1900s by two German immigrants, the department store operated for decades before closing in 1995 amid competition from nearby retail centers. Develop Niagara will focus on revitalizing the historic Division Avenue house built in 1900, while NFNHA Holdings will take on the church at 1509 Main Street, constructed in 1932. RJ Niagara is set to redevelop the NFusion Night Club building which was originally constructed in 1960. “These properties have been vacant and damaged for years under single-party ownership,” Mayor Robert Restaino said in a statement. “By acquiring them and then transferring ownership on a more community-oriented scale, we are advancing the community’s vision for revitalization. I thank Governor Hochul and our partners for their assistance as we move forward with repurposing these buildings and filling vacant lots to create more business and job opportunities.” City officials emphasized that all projects must enter into a development enforcement mortgage, ensuring progress will be monitored until completion. The broader vision is to transform the Bridge District with new residential, retail, entertainment, office, and educational opportunities, reversing years of decline. Niagara Falls Launches Revitalization With Historic Jenss Building Redevelopment

Contributed Say Yes Niagara Falls is here! After several years of discussion and planning, the Niagara Falls City School District and Say Yes Buffalo announced the formation of Say Yes Niagara Falls. Say Yes Niagara Falls aims to enhance the district’s capabilities to serve the community in three program areas: 1) Community School initiative featuring Saturday Academy programming, 2) a workforce development initiative featuring both earn-while-you-learn modern youth apprenticeships and direct-hire opportunities for Niagara Falls High School graduates, and 3) a mentorship and youth leadership for young men of color called Breaking Barriers. Say Yes Niagara Falls has also announced the formation of the Niagara Falls Scholarship Endowment Campaign, an effort to raise funds that can support graduates of Niagara Falls High School in their postsecondary studies in perpetuity. This fund mimics the Say Yes Buffalo Scholarship Endowment Fund which after a ten-year campaign stands close to completion at $61M. The goal for the Niagara Falls Scholarship Endowment Campaign is $20M. To launch the community school initiative, Say Yes Niagara Falls will be hosting 16 Saturday Academy events during the 2025-26 school year. These events will feature hands-on learning opportunities primarily focused on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics), community resources, and fun activities for all ages and abilities along with breakfast and lunch. Saturday Academies are welcoming spaces designed to support students and strengthen family connections. "Say Yes Niagara Falls will be the first expansion of the highly successful Say Yes Buffalo initiative," said Niagara Falls City School District Superintendent Mark Laurrie. "These opportunities will truly be a game changer for our students and community. Together, we can build a brighter future and ensure that every child has the support they need to reach their full potential." “We’re tremendously excited to expand to Niagara Falls and hit the ground running with a great team in place,” Say Yes Buffalo CEO David Rust said. “We’ve always approached Say Yes Buffalo as an economic development engine, and we all know that the Buffalo-Niagara economy is inextricably linked. We’re humbled as an organization to help bridge the gap between talent and opportunity that so many students face in Niagara Falls.” The first Saturday Academy in Niagara Falls will occur on October 4, 2025 at Cataract Elementary School and rotate between a total of four schools. All Saturday Academy events will take place from 9am-12pm. Full information on these events can be found at https://sayyesniagarafalls.org . Say Yes Niagara Falls Brings New Opportunities for Students and Families

New York Attorney General Letitia James, who built her political reputation on aggressively pursuing former President Donald Trump, is now facing legal and political troubles of her own. James has turned to the Democratic Attorneys General Association (DAGA) for financial support to pay her legal bills, an unusual move that highlights just how vulnerable she has become under federal investigation. The reliance on outside party resources comes as Trump-appointed prosecutors expand inquiries into political opponents, including James. She is under scrutiny for allegedly making false statements on loan documents tied to her Brooklyn brownstone and another property in Virginia. Those allegations were referred to the Department of Justice earlier this year, and Bondi, Trump’s attorney general, appointed lawyer Ed Martin as special prosecutor in the case. James has denied wrongdoing, but her decision to seek outside help through DAGA underscores the seriousness of the threat she faces. DAGA President Sean Rankin claimed Trump has threatened elected officials who seek to hold him accountable, while warning that James will likely see escalating attacks. But critics note that James is choosing a path that allows her to tap unlimited donations from wealthy donors, corporations, special interests and unions, bypassing New York’s campaign finance limits and disclosure rules. Contributions will flow through a 527 organization, which requires only an annual filing. Her office insists that she will not use a $10 million state appropriation set aside for officials targeted by retaliatory investigations, but watchdog groups say she is sidestepping accountability. John Kaehny, executive director of Reinvent Albany, argued that James should rely on the taxpayer-funded program specifically created for this purpose instead of leaning on a national political account that can accept unlimited money. The argument being, as Kaehny noted, that it creates less of a conflict of interest. Republicans in the state legislature have been even more direct. During debate over the $10 million fund, State Senator Andrew Lanza said most New Yorkers would be outraged if their tax dollars were used to defend officials against crimes that they committed that have nothing to do with their elected position. Even though James declined to use the fund this time, she can int he future. This is not the first time James has tapped into outside funding to handle legal threats. In August, Comptroller Tom DiNapoli’s office approved her request to spend up to $1 million in taxpayer funds for an outside law firm in connection with a separate federal probe led by acting U.S. Attorney John Sarcone in Albany. That investigation is tied to her civil fraud case against Trump and her lawsuit against the NRA. Records show her chosen firm, Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP, charges as much as $1,650 per hour. Trump and his allies have pointed to James as an example of partisan lawfare, and now James’s own actions appear to be lending weight to those claims. By turning to a national political group for unlimited contributions, critics say James is eroding public trust and inviting even greater skepticism about her judgment and ethics. Her reelection campaign has separately raised money by portraying her as Trump’s chief adversary, urging donors to help her go “toe to toe” with him. Letitia James Turns to National Democratic Group to Cover Mounting Legal Bills

Niagara Falls Police were dispatched to the 1800 block of Walnut Avenue around 11:30am on September 25th after reports of criminal mischief and/or shots fired. While investigating that call, a neighbor, now identified as Timothy Buncy, came out of his home.   He told officers that he “gave a warning shot” due to unknown parties breaking the windows of his neighbor’s home. Officers then interviewed Buncy who stated he shot his gun at a tree to scare anyone near his, or his neighbor’s, home. Buncy showed officers what appeared to be a bullet in a tree next to his home and was placed in handcuffs. He advised officers that his handgun is in the attic where he sleeps and told officers they could retrieve it. The firearm was retrieved as well as the spent shotgun shell. Buncy was transported to police headquarters for booking and processing. Niagara Falls Man Fires Shotgun in Residential Neighborhood to Scare People

Niagara Falls Police responded to 500 block of Memorial Parkway around 11am on September 23rd after reports of a theft/larceny. Upon arrival, officers spoke to the victim and his social worker. The social worker explained to police that he is blind and lives by himself. His wife had just passed away and left some biohazards in the home that needed to be cleaned. The landlords, CRDH Property Management, hired a company to do the work. The victim told police he had no idea of anyone’s identity and that they all spoke Spanish. While cleaning, the suspects took multiple items including cloths, fans, a house phone, watches and a TV stand. Altogether, the stolen property is valued around $500. No further information is available at this time. There are no known suspects. Unknown Suspects Steal $500 Worth of Items from Blind Man's Home Shortly After Wife's Death

File Photo A Lockport man has been indicted stemming from a deadly motorcycle accident that occurred this past summer in Niagara County. Lewiston police announced that 27-year-old Nicholas DiCarlo has been indicted by a grand jury on a count of second-degree manslaughter in connection with a July 17th crash on Saunders Settlement Road near Niagara Wheatfield High School. Prosecutors allege DiCarlo was driving recklessly, causing the collision that killed 26-year-old Hunter Weber. He was arraigned in Niagara County Court and ordered held without bail. Weber’s death left a deep impact on the region’s motorcycling community. Soon after the crash, riders from across Western New York organized tributes to honor Weber and others who lost their lives on the road during the summer months. One of the memorial rides was coordinated by Weber’s friend, Joseph Matuszak, who explained that the gathering was meant to provide both comfort and solidarity for fellow riders. The journey, which stretched from Lewiston to Buffalo, allowed motorcyclists to grieve together while celebrating Weber’s life. The case against DiCarlo is in Niagara County Court. Niagara County Man Indicted After Deadly Motorcycle Crash

Niagara Falls Police responded to 7-Eleven on Niagara Falls Blvd. around 1am on September 24th after reports of a theft. Upon arrival, officers spoke to an employee who stated that at approx. 12:30am, while she was working the cash register, two males entered the store and went into the back. There was one black male described as about 40-years-old with a thin build and gold teeth. The other suspect was a white male in his mid-40’s, short and had glasses on with a large build. The black male was talking to her as if to distract her while other white male was in the back of the store collecting red bull and milk. That suspect then walked to the front of the store and passed all points of purchase without paying for the two cases of Red Bull and gallon on milk. The black male then grabbed a case of beer and was about to exit the store when she stopped him. She told him the police would be called, but he did not care. Undeterred, he left. The total value of the Red Bull was $213.12 and the milk was $3.59. Both males took off in what she believed was a Dodge Durango. Officers requested surveillance footage that would be provided at a later time. No further information is available at this time. Suspects Walks Out of 7-Eleven with Over $200 Worth of Red Bull and Milk

Niagara Falls Police responded to the 600 block of Walnut Avenue around 1:30pm on September 24th after reports of a home invasion.   Upon arrival, officers spoke to the complainant who stated that he arrived home around 12:30am on September 24th and immediately went to sleep. He then awoke at 5:30am to discover that two glass pane windows on his front door were smashed. Each valued at $100. The door to the apartment was also left wide open. Upon examining the apartment, he discovered that his GTE cell phone was missing, valued at $300, along with his HP X360 14” Chromebook, valued at $205. The complainant told police that he does not have cameras and officers checked neighboring houses with negative results. Officers provided him with a blotter number. No further information is available at this time. Victim Sleeps While Suspect Smashes Glass Door During Home Invasion in Niagara Falls

Political strategists across New York are warning that Governor Kathy Hochul’s recent endorsement of Zohran Mamdani for New York City mayor could shape next year’s gubernatorial election. Hochul, who faces an uphill reelection battle in 2025, announced her support for Mamdani two weeks ago, months after his primary victory. Mayor Eric Adams just suspended his campaign, leaving Mamdani to face independent candidate, and former Governor, Andrew Cuomo. Mamdani, a self-described democratic socialist, has rolled out a progressive platform that includes a multi-year rent freeze, higher taxes on the wealthy, and publicly owned grocery stores. Hochul, while acknowledging policy differences, said she chose to back him in the interest of Democratic unity, emphasizing that they share goals of affordability and public safety. Republican strategists quickly framed the move as a major vulnerability. Consultant Hank Sheinkopf told Spectrum News that Hochul would face serious difficulties retaining office, arguing that Mamdani’s rhetoric could alienate suburban voters and ethnic communities outside the city. He predicted Hochul would find it nearly impossible to win reelection without suburban support. Similarly, GOP strategist Chapin Fay described Mamdani as the future of the party, but called it a dark one and suggested Republicans would use Hochul’s alignment with him in campaign ads. He pointed to Representative Elise Stefanik as a likely challenger, saying Hochul had “given her yet another villain,” alongside figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Former President Donald Trump echoed the sentiment on Truth Social writing that Mamdani would be “one of the best things to happen” for Republican candidates. Sheinkopf also said the endorsement would embolden democratic socialists to challenge Democrats nationwide, giving them a springboard of extraordinary prominence. In his view, the move would make it harder for moderates to distance themselves from progressive policies unpopular with independents. Democratic strategists countered that argument, saying voters would not be convinced Hochul shares Mamdani’s ideology. Trip Yang, a Democratic strategist supportive of the governor, said Hochul’s choice was politically smart. He noted that Hochul has been open about disagreements, including opposition to raising taxes on the wealthy and to controversial stances like directing law enforcement to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Grant Reeher, a political science professor at Syracuse University, said the endorsement might help Hochul with younger Democrats frustrated with senior party leadership. He added that her vulnerability remains real and the outcome will depend heavily on who Republicans nominate. He pointed to the 2022 race where Hochul narrowly defeated Lee Zeldin, as proof the GOP could be competitive. Meanwhile, Hochul’s lieutenant governor, Antonio Delgado, who has mounted a long-shot primary bid against her, endorsed Mamdani immediately after the primary. That could complicate internal party dynamics but also highlight Hochul’s positioning as a moderate. Hochul’s campaign has stressed that her record speaks for itself. A spokesperson described her as pragmatic and moderate, underscoring that many of Mamdani’s proposals would require her approval and offering her opportunities to reaffirm her own centrist priorities. Hochul's Backing of Socialist Mayoral Frontrunner Mamdani Could Derail Reelection

Police in Brockport are investigating after the discovery of a man’s body in a secluded and overgrown area of the village over the weekend. According to Brockport Police Chief Paul Wheat, officers were dispatched to the 200 block of State Street just after 3:15pm on Saturday, September 27th following a report that a body had been found in thick brush near the Erie Canal. When officers arrived they located the remains of a deceased man. Chief Wheat explained that evidence suggested the body had been there “for several days if not longer.” Wheat added that the department’s initial review “did not show any signs of criminality” and assured residents that “there is no threat to our community.” The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and the Monroe County Medical Examiner’s Office both responded to assist. Officials said the Medical Examiner’s Office is now working to confirm the man’s identity and establish the cause of death. The location, police noted, sits south of the canal within a commercial area of the village. The investigation remains ongoing and no additional information had been released as of late Sunday. Police Investigate After Body Found in Overgrown Brush

Authorities say an 18-year-old man was shot and killed by a New York State Trooper in Chemung on Sunday after threatening a woman during a domestic dispute. The shooting happened on Rotary Road shortly after 3pm when troopers and a Chemung County Sheriff’s deputy were dispatched to a report of an active physical disturbance inside a home. According to police, when officers entered the residence they encountered a woman in the living room being menaced by a man armed with a pair of scissors. The suspect, identified as Nathan J. Novakowski ignored repeated orders to drop the weapon and became “increasingly agitated,” investigators said. Police reported that the situation escalated when Novakowski attempted to stab the woman. At that moment, a trooper fired his service weapon striking Novakowski and fatally wounding him. The woman sustained minor injuries during the altercation and was treated on scene by Greater Valley Ambulance personnel. The case is now being investigated by the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation with oversight from the New York State Attorney General’s Office, which is required by state law in all incidents where a law enforcement officer’s use of force results in death. No additional details about the shooting are available at this time. An investigation is ongoing. Trooper Shoot and Kills 18-year-old Who Tried to Stab Woman with Scissors

A Niagara Falls woman was hospitalized Monday morning after she leapt from a window to escape a fast-moving blaze at an apartment complex on Krull Parkway. The fire, reported just before 7:30am, drew multiple emergency calls including one from a resident who said she was still trapped inside the building at 8531 Krull Parkway. Firefighters arriving on scene were met with thick smoke and visible flames spreading through at least two apartments. Crews immediately deployed several handlines and launched an interior attack to battle the fire in both the main unit and an adjoining apartment. As more fire companies converged on the scene, the woman who had initially reported being stuck inside was discovered outside the building. Officials said she had jumped from a window in order to escape and was found behind the structure with a leg injury. She was taken by ambulance to a local hospital for treatment. All other tenants of the multi-unit complex, along with their pets, were able to get out safely. Firefighters remained on site to make sure no one else was inside and to prevent flames from spreading further. Once the bulk of the fire had been brought under control, crews conducted searches of adjacent units to check for extension and then began a thorough overhaul of the damaged apartments. In total, two units sustained direct fire damage while at least three neighboring apartments suffered significant smoke damage. Fire officials have not yet determined what caused the fire. Niagara Falls Woman Hospitalized After Jumping From Window to Escape Fire

Niagara Falls Police responded to the Seneca Niagara Casino after 12am on September 22nd after reports of a larceny. Upon arrival, officers spoke with casino staff who stated that a male victim had his casino money voucher stolen from his person by a female. Officers then spoke to the victim who stated at 12:09am he was approached by a female who appeared to be heavily intoxicated. He further stated that she asked him where the bathroom was. While doing so, she was practically on top of him. She walked away and shortly thereafter he observed that his cash voucher was missing from his shirt pocket. Casino staff stated to officers that the suspect, identified as Amanda Ubiles, took the cash voucher, cashed it in, and then left the premises. At approx. 2:29am, officers were dispatched back to the casino due to Ubiles arriving back at the scene. Officers interviewed Ubiles. She stated, “if I get you the money can I go?” She was placed into custody at this time. Ubiles was transported to police headquarters for booking and processing. She was charged with grand larceny 4th. No further information is available at this time. Drunk Woman Brushes Up Against Male to Steal Cash Voucher at Seneca Niagara Casino

Niagara Falls Police responded to the Seneca Niagara Casino around 3am on September  21st after reports of a fight in the hotel valet driveway. Upon arrival, officers observed numerous parties being held back by casino security but still loudly arguing and attempting to get near each other. Once all parties were separated officers attempted to speak with everyone and investigate the incident. Officers spoke with the victim who stated that he had been on the gaming floor with two other individuals for a while but did not know them very well. He wanted to continue gaming but did not want to leave the floor so he asked one of the individuals to go cash in some chips for him. They did and returned to give him his money. As a thank you, he gave them $20. This resulted in an argument because he thought he was entitled to more money for going and cashing the chips. Shortly thereafter, the victim was confronted by the male and a female in the hotel lobby leading to an argument. The parties separated and the victim went outside to sit on the bench to wait for his vehicle. At this point, the male and female approached him in an aggressive manner from “somewhere down the sidewalk.” The victim told police he “knew” he was going to be attacked. The female started punching him in the face. At some point during the altercation, the victim’s chain with his wedding ring on it was ripped off of his neck. A bystander went to attempt to pick up the necklace for the victim but the female got there first and put it in her pocket. The female was identified as Jerrika Freeman. Officers viewed surveillance footage that corroborated male #1’s account of what transpired. Officers then spoke with Freeman who stated that she did not take the necklace. Freeman did allow officers to search her purse and they did not locate the necklace. While officers were waiting for surveillance to review the footage in an attempt to locate the missing jewelry, Freeman became irate and started shouting obscenities and became hostile towards the victim. Due to Freeman’s escalating temper and increased agitation, officers attempted to detain her. As they were placing handcuffs on her, the gold chain and ring belonging to the victim fell from her hoodie. She was taken into custody at this time. Freeman was trespassed from the property. She was transported to police headquarters for booking and processing. She was charged with harassment 2nd and grand larceny 3rd. No further information is available at this time. $20 Tip Leads to Violent Assault at Seneca Niagara Casino, Theft of Wedding Ring

A confrontation inside a New York City immigration court this week has renewed attention on the dangerous environments faced by federal immigration officers carrying out their duties. A video posted online Thursday captured a scene in which Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel detained a man, while a distraught woman, identified as his wife, was restrained by an ICE agent after becoming disruptive in front of their children. The woman was seen weeping and collapsing after being held back during the incident, which followed what authorities described as a high-risk enforcement action. The episode unfolded just as New York political figures, including Governor Kathy Hochul, continue to speak out against the presence of ICE in the state. Hochul has repeatedly criticized the agency’s enforcement operations, arguing that its officers should not be active in New York City. Her position stands in stark contrast with federal officials who emphasize that ICE officers are sworn law enforcement agents tasked with upholding the nation’s immigration laws, often in volatile and unpredictable circumstances. The video quickly spread on social media, drawing condemnation from New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, who wrote on X that, “Her husband had been abducted by masked ICE agents who did not identify themselves, did not present a warrant, did not give any lawful grounds for his detention. Every day, masked ICE agents are acting violently against our neighbors, illegally abducting them, holding them in cruel and inhumane conditions. Treating them as less-than-human, and not deserving due process.” Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, a vocal defender of federal immigration enforcement, reminded the public this week that ICE officers are also members of American communities. “ICE employees are fathers and mothers, sons and daughters,” Noem said. “Like everyone else, we just want to go home to our families at night.” Her comments came in the wake of a violent episode in Dallas where a gunman opened fire at a detention facility killing one detainee and seriously wounding two others before taking his own life. No ICE personnel were injured, but the attack underscored the climate of hostility surrounding the agency. Noem attributed the atmosphere to increasingly dangerous rhetoric directed against ICE. “While we don’t know motive yet, we know that our ICE law enforcement is facing unprecedented violence against them. It must stop,” she wrote on X. “Please pray for the victims and their families.” She also rejected comparisons of ICE to oppressive regimes declaring there would be “consequences” for those who equate American law enforcement agents with “the Nazi Gestapo, the Secret Police, and slave patrols.” According to Noem, such rhetoric places ICE officers at greater risk of harm while they carry out essential federal law enforcement functions. Despite heightened criticism, officials with the Department of Homeland Security and ICE have defended the use of tactical gear, including masks, as necessary precautions to protect officers from violence and doxing. DHS has pointed to a sharp increase in assaults on immigration agents this year, citing a 700 percent rise in reported incidents compared to the prior year. Federal prosecutors aligned with the administration have also attempted to bring charges against individuals accused of attacking ICE officers. At the same time, protests outside immigration facilities continue to escalate. In Chicago on Friday, ICE agents deployed tear gas and pepper balls to disperse roughly 100 demonstrators gathered outside the Broadview detention center, a crowd that included two Democratic congressional candidates. ICE Agents Face Hostile Climate After New York Courtroom Incident

Police in North Tonawanda say they were called to Webster Street in the early hours of Sunday, September 28th after receiving reports of shots fired near a popular restaurant and bar. According to a press release posted on social media, officers were dispatched to 58 Webster Street following a call that someone might be shot. When officers arrived, they found a large crowd gathered outside Ranchos Tres Cantina with one man lying on the ground. After speaking with witnesses, investigators determined that the man had not been shot but injured during a fight that began inside the restaurant and later spilled outside onto the street. Authorities explained that as the fight moved outdoors, a witness reported seeing an unidentified man fire several rounds into the air before running from the area. Officers confirmed that they recovered multiple shell casings from the scene. At this stage of the investigation, police said there is no indication that anyone was struck by the gunfire. The department stated that officers received a report that one person may have been shot in the area of 58 Webster Street. At this time, police do not believe that anyone was hit by gunfire. The North Tonawanda Police Department is asking for the public’s help as the investigation continues. Officials urged anyone who may have information or video of the incident to contact the Investigative Bureau at (716) 692-4312. Officers from the City of Tonawanda Police Department, the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police, and Wheatfield town constables assisting North Tonawanda police in securing the scene and controlling the crowd that had gathered outside the restaurant. Crowd Chaos After Gunfire Reported at Ranchos Tres Cantina in Niagara County

Governor Kathy Hochul on Friday forcefully denounced the federal indictment of former FBI Director James Comey and the ongoing investigation into New York Attorney General Letitia James calling both actions politically motivated and orchestrated by former President Donald Trump. Hochul described the situation as “a new low for our nation,” warning that the United States cannot allow its justice system to be manipulated for retribution. Speaking to reporters after an appearance in Albany, Hochul said, “I got to think, we cannot tolerate using a system that's set up for justice as a weapon to get even, a weapon of revenge against your political enemies. A new low for our nation.” Her comments came one day after the Department of Justice announced that Comey had been indicted on charges of making false statements and obstruction of a congressional proceeding. The announcement followed a September 20th post on Trump’s Truth Social platform in which he demanded to know the status of cases against Comey, James, and Rep. Adam Schiff, a California Democrat. Comey, who was appointed FBI director by President Barack Obama in 2013, was dismissed by Trump in 2017 while overseeing the bureau’s investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. In his September 20th message, Trump wrote, “We can't delay any longer. It's killing our reputation and credibility. They impeached me twice and indicted me (5 Times!) OVER NOTHING. JUSTICE MUST BE SERVED, NOW!!!” His demand came shortly before federal prosecutors announced charges against Comey. Letitia James has also found herself under federal scrutiny with investigators examining allegations of mortgage fraud. James previously brought a high-profile civil fraud lawsuit against Trump and his company, which resulted in a massive financial penalty before that ruling was overturned. U.S. Attorney Erik Siebert of the Eastern District of Virginia resigned after concluding there was not enough evidence to pursue charges against James. Trump, however, claimed in his September 20th post that he had fired Siebert and declared there was a “GREAT CASE” against the attorney general. He chose Lindsey Halligan, a White House staffer, to serve as Siebert’s replacement. Halligan is now acting as interim U.S. attorney and is leading the prosecution in Comey’s case. Attorney General Pam Bondi defended the decision to indict Comey, stating, “No one is above the law. Today’s indictment reflects this Department of Justice’s commitment to holding those who abuse positions of power accountable for misleading the American people. We will follow the facts in this case.” FBI Director Kash Patel also framed the indictment as a corrective measure, remarking, “For far too long, previous corrupt leadership and their enablers weaponized federal law enforcement, damaging once proud institutions and severely eroding public trust.” Hochul, however, portrayed the unfolding events as the latest example of Trump bending institutions to serve his personal grievances. She argued that James, as New York’s top law enforcement official, had a duty to pursue evidence of wrongdoing regardless of who the target might be, and that penalizing her for doing so was a profound misuse of government power. “Is Tish James, as the attorney general, the highest law enforcement officer [in] our state, supposed to turn her eye away from evidence and pretend it didn't happen because of who the perpetrator is? That would be an abomination,” Hochul said. “And so to have the system now used against an individual simply doing her job is a new low for this country, whether it's James Comey or Tish James or anyone.” Hochul Says Political Retaliation Driving Cases Against Comey, Letitia James

A boating incident on Grand Island has left a Maine man dead after he fell into the Niagara River early Saturday morning, according to the Erie County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies say the victim, identified as 61-year-old Edward Lachapelle of Turner, Maine, went overboard from the back of his sailboat while it was docked at the Sandy Beach Yacht Club. Authorities received a 9-1-1 call at approximately 12:20am reporting that the man had fallen and appeared to be struggling in the water. Emergency crews immediately launched a search effort. Roughly an hour later, rescuers located Lachapelle’s body more than 100 yards from the spot where he had gone into the river. The Erie County Sheriff’s Office confirmed his identity Saturday afternoon and said the investigation into the circumstances of his death remain ongoing. Man Dies After Falling From Sailboat in Niagara River, Body Successfully Recovered

Niagara Falls Police responded to Rapids Bowling Alley on the 9500 block of Niagara Falls Blvd. around 9pm on September 19th after reports of a fight. Upon arrival, officers made contact with an employee who stated that a Hispanic male wearing a black hat and shirt was trying to fight with customers inside the bar area. He was currently outside near the rear of the business. Officers relocated to the rear of the bowling alley and located a male matching the description. The male, now identified as Luis Rodriguez, appeared to be intoxicated. Rodriguez stated that he was inside the bowling alley and a group of people started to fight with him. While speaking to Rodriguez, he became argumentative and hostile towards officers. Rodriguez was then detained for officer safety to further investigate the incident and placed in the rear of a patrol vehicle. Officers spoke again to the employee who stated that Rodriguez was starting to argue and fight with patrons. He was told to leave but refused to do so. He was removed from the establishment prior to police arriving. Rodriguez was then taken out of the back of the patrol vehicle and his handcuffs were removed. He was given a lawful order to leave the property and avoid arrest but refused to do so. Officers then advised Rodriguez that he was under arrest, but he refused to cooperate and fought back against officers. Force was then used to subdue and place him under arrest. Rodriguez was transported to 1925 Main Street for booking and processing. While there, he denied medical attention for injuries sustained to his arms and legs during the altercation leading to him being placed under arrest. Luis Rodriguez from Niagara Falls Arrested for Drunken Tirade, Resisting Arrest   Motorcyclist Dies After Crash in Niagara County Involving Pickup Truck

Niagara Falls Police responded to the 7-Eleven on the 400 block of Niagara Street around 7:50pm on September 20th after reports of an assault and robbery. While en route, dispatch advised officers that the suspect was a black male wearing all white clothing last seen walking northbound down 4th Street. Officers did locate the suspect, now identified as Tywaun Barnes, on the 400 block of 7th Street. Barnes was detained and transported to 7-Eleven in the rear of a patrol vehicle where a 7-Eleven employee positively identified him as the suspect. Officers then spoke with the employee who stated he was working when he observed a black male enter the store and conceal several items of merchandise in his bag and walk past all points of purchase. The total value of goods totaled $29. The employee then attempted to stop him at the exit doors, but Barnes became hostile and aggressive. Barnes began to push him and was able to exit the store. The employee was able to momentarily get ahold of the bag with the stolen merchandise, but Barnes was able to rip it away. Barnes swung the bag at the employee, striking him in the head causing a large laceration on the back of his head. The employee told police he was in an incredible amount of pain and almost lost consciousness from how hard he was hit by Barnes. He wished to pursue charges against Barnes. The stolen merchandise was recovered and returned to 7-Eleven. Officers attempted to interview Barnes but he would not answer questions and continued to act belligerent towards officers. He was transported to police headquarters for booking and processing. Barnes was charged with assault 2nd (intent to cause physical injury with weapon/instrument), petit larceny, and robbery 2nd (causes physical injury). No further information is available at this time. 7-Eleven Employee Suffers Blunt Force Trauma to Head During Robbery in Niagara Falls

A man was wounded in a shooting Friday afternoon on Niagara Street in Niagara Falls, resulting in a large police response. Police say the incident unfolded shortly before 3pm on the 1900 block of Niagara Street after several gunshots were reported. Witnesses indicated that at least four shots rang out before a white vehicle sped away from the area. As officers were responding, they received word that a male victim had been struck by gunfire. According to police, one officer spotted the suspect vehicle leaving the scene and attempted to conduct a traffic stop. The driver and passengers refused to comply, abandoning the car in an alley off the 2400 block of Forest Avenue before running off on foot. With descriptions circulated, officers were able to track down and detain two men connected to the vehicle. Two others, a male and a female, remained at large as of Friday evening. Emergency crews, including Niagara Falls Fire and an AMR, arrived on Niagara Street to treat the victim who had suffered a gunshot wound to his right forearm. He was taken to the hospital where he remained in stable condition. Police confirmed the case remains under investigation. Gunfire Erupts in Niagara Falls Sending One to Hospital, Two Suspects Arrested After Chase

On September 12th, Niagara County Sheriff Michael Filicetti announced the arrest of a Rochester man following a drug task force investigation. Marvin C. Caffee Jr., 56, was taken into custody after investigators with the Niagara County Drug Task Force identified him as a suspect in the sale and distribution of narcotics. Authorities charged Caffee with two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, along with two counts of third-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance, all felony charges. Following his arrest, Caffee was booked into the Niagara County Jail where he remained pending arraignment. Officials have not yet released further details about the investigation or the substances involved. The Sheriff’s Office said the case highlights ongoing efforts by the Niagara County Drug Task Force to combat drug trafficking throughout the region. Marvin Caffee Arrested on Felony Drug Charges in Niagara County

From @touronsofnationalparks A recently surfaced video from Niagara Falls has sparked widespread concern after showing a tourist climbing over safety barriers and sitting dangerously close to the rushing water. The clip, widely circulated on social media, highlights the life-threatening risks some visitors take for a photo opportunity or thrill. The incident, which occurred during a tourist’s first visit to the falls, led to police intervention. Officers escorted the man away without injury, but the reckless stunt drew immediate criticism from both park officials and the public. Authorities stressed that ignoring barriers not only endangers the individual but also forces first responders into dangerous situations. Such behavior, often referred to as “touron” activity - a blend of “tourist” and “moron” - has become an increasing problem at national and state parks. These actions undermine the rules designed to protect both visitors and the environment. At Niagara Falls, the volume and speed of the water make rescue attempts especially perilous, heightening the potential for tragedy if barriers are ignored. Public reaction to the video ranged from mocking to deeply critical. Many pointed out that stunts like this not only risk one person’s life but also those of first responders who would arrive to try and save them. Officials emphasize that safety railings exist to preserve lives and protect fragile ecosystems. Reckless Tourist Sits on Edge of Niagara Falls in Dangerous Stunt

The U.S. Department of Justice’s investigation into New York Attorney General Letitia James is intensifying, with prosecutors in Virginia continuing to examine allegations of mortgage fraud that could lead to formal charges. While early stages of the probe faced hurdles, recent developments suggest that federal investigators are keeping the path toward indictment open. The case, now overseen by senior DOJ official Ed Martin in the Eastern District of Virginia, stems from claims that James misrepresented her residency on mortgage applications. Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte initially raised concerns pointing to discrepancies in documents tied to a Virginia property. The allegations mirror an earlier inquiry into Federal Reserve board member Lisa Cook. Although former lead U.S. attorney Erik Siebert resigned in mid-September 2025 after admitting there was not enough evidence at the time to proceed, his departure has not slowed momentum. President Donald Trump publicly pressed DOJ leadership to act quickly, warning that credibility was at stake if the case stalled further. That pressure, coupled with Martin’s hands-on approach, has kept the investigation moving forward. Prosecutors are focused on whether James knowingly provided false information on loan applications, particularly in relation to her Virginia property. Since May 2025, investigators have been combing through mortgage documents, emails, and other records to establish intent. While some of the paperwork shows James marked the property as not her primary residence, prosecutors are weighing whether inconsistencies or other evidence may suggest otherwise. James’s legal team has maintained that she did nothing improper, highlighting repeated documentation in which she explicitly denied using the property as her main residence. Yet the investigation has widened, with Martin also personally visiting one of James’s New York properties in August as part of the fact-gathering process. Alongside the mortgage case, James faces a separate grand jury inquiry in Albany on accusations of deprivation of rights, which centers on alleged constitutional violations. Combined, the overlapping investigations are creating a growing legal threat for New York’s top prosecutor. James, a longtime critic of Trump who has successfully pursued civil cases against him, has dismissed the probe as politically motivated. Still, with federal prosecutors showing no signs of backing down and multiple avenues of inquiry open, the possibility of an indictment now looms larger than it did just weeks ago. Mortgage Fraud Probe Against Letitia James Gaining Momentum Towards Indictment

Michael Collesano, a Manhattan attorney and licensed real estate broker, has filed a defamation lawsuit that centers on a crude remark about his anatomy. The case, lodged earlier this year in New York County Supreme Court, stems from an escalating feud with his neighbor and fellow broker, Aimee Fink. Court filings show Collesano, who owns unit 11F at 155 East 34th Street, accused Fink of orchestrating a campaign to harm both his personal reputation and professional interests. The verified complaint outlines months of conflict tied to a contentious Warren House condominium board election, alleging Fink spread false information, interfered with business activities, and disparaged him and his wife. The allegation that has defined the lawsuit is rooted in a single incident on January 17th, 2025. According to Collesano, while he and his wife were loading luggage in the lobby, Fink gestured with her fingers to indicate a small size and shouted: “you have a little dick.” The complaint claims this insult was made in front of building staff and is representative of broader harassment. Niagara Action has not independently confirmed the claims in this lawsuit. They remain allegations, not facts, unless proven in court. The complaint details other alleged actions including Fink telling neighbors Collesano was behind on common charges in order to discredit his eligibility for the board, calling his wife Mandy “gross,” and blaming him for authoring a letter that unsettled residents. It further accuses her of using an alias email account to obtain business information improperly, distributing confidential materials, and leveraging her board position to benefit herself. The filing notes that two weeks after the January lobby encounter, Collesano informed Fink he intended to sue her. In response, she allegedly got in his face, gave him the middle finger, and called police. No charges resulted in the incident. According to legal analysts who commented on similar defamation cases in the past, they say the case highlights the fine line between defamation and non-actionable insults. Under New York law, plaintiffs must show that a false statement of fact was communicated to a third party and caused reputational damage. Insults such as the genital remark, observers note, are often treated as opinion or rhetorical hyperbole and rarely meet that bar. The timeline described in the filing could also undermine Collesano’s claim. The January 17th insult preceded his February threat to sue, making it appear that he escalated an embarrassing dispute into litigation. By doing so, he may have amplified the very insult he sought to suppress. Collesano’s lawsuit has also prompted questions about professional ethics. As a lawyer, he is bound by the New York Rules of Professional Conduct, which limit the use of courts as tools of harassment. Legal experts point to several potentially relevant rules: Rule 3.1 prohibits frivolous claims. A case driven by a playground-level insult could be viewed as meritless. Rule 4.4 forbids using the law to harass or embarrass others. Spotlighting humiliating remarks may appear retaliatory. Rule 8.4 bars misconduct prejudicial to justice. Litigation over crude name-calling risks eroding public trust in the legal system. Rule 3.2 prohibits actions intended only to burden or delay. If the purpose is to drain Fink financially, this would raise concerns. Rule 8.4(h) warns against conduct reflecting poorly on an attorney’s fitness to practice. Escalating a crude personal insult into major litigation could call into question judgment and proportionality. Niagara Action stresses that it is not asserting Collesano has violated these rules. Rather, in consultation with a Juris Doctor, this list identifies standards that may be implicated by the facts described in the complaint. Collesano’s lawsuit names both Fink and her brokerage as defendants and seeks damages for defamation, business defamation, and unfair competition. He portrays the litigation as a necessary defense of his livelihood and good name. DOWNLOAD THE FULL COMPLAINT HERE: New York Attorney Michael Collesano Sues Woman After Mocking his Tiny Manhood

In a sweeping move to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, New York State is implementing a law that requires most new buildings to be all-electric starting in 2026. This policy prohibits gas, oil, and other fossil fuel systems for heating, cooking, and appliances in many newly constructed residential and commercial structures. The mandate is part of the state’s broader climate legislation and is intended to align new construction with New York’s emissions targets. Beginning January 1st, 2026, new buildings up to seven stories tall, and commercial buildings with 100,000 square feet or more of conditioned floor area, must be built using only electric heat and appliances. Fossil fuel equipment (natural gas, heating oil, and propane) will generally be banned in these new builds. Starting in 2029, the requirement expands to essentially all new buildings and homes, regardless of size or height (with some exemptions). Existing buildings are not affected by this mandate even if they are being renovated. If a permit for new construction is substantially complete before December 31st, 2025, those projects are not subject to the new electric-only requirements. The law includes several carve-outs and exemptions to address practical constraints: -Buildings such as hospitals, restaurants, certain laboratories, agricultural structures, medical facilities, critical infrastructure, and others are exempt from the electric-only requirement. -Emergency backup generators and stand-by power systems may still use fossil fuels. -Where the local electrical grid cannot reasonably support full electric service in the timeframe required by the law, waivers or exceptions may be granted. One proposed guideline suggests an 18-month delay threshold for when electrical service upgrades are not feasible in that period. The law stems from the All-Electric Buildings Act passed by the legislature in 2023. It was incorporated into the state’s Energy Conservation Construction Code via updates by the State Fire Prevention and Building Code Council. A federal court in the Northern District of New York recently upheld the state’s authority to enforce the ban on fossil fuel equipment in new buildings (commonly called the “gas ban” or “all-electric law”), rejecting challenges that it conflicts with federal regulations. Governor Kathy Hochul signed off on the law when it passed and her administration has overseen work to update building codes and regulatory frameworks to implement it. Though there have been delays and questions raised by builders about cost, grid readiness, and affordability, the regulatory bodies have moved forward with draft rule changes reflecting the new law. Hochul has acknowledged concerns from builders and homeowners about upfront expenses and infrastructure upgrades. At the same time, the law is defended as necessary to meet the state’s climate goals under the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA), which mandates deep emission reductions by 2030 and carbon neutrality by mid-century. For those living or working in existing buildings, the new mandate will not force changes to their heating or cooking systems. Gas appliances already in place or in permitted renovations are protected. However, anyone involved in new construction after January 1st, 2026 - especially for buildings up to seven stories or large commercial structures - will have to shift to electric-only systems. By 2029, the requirements will cover nearly all new construction, unless specific exemptions apply. While many environmental advocates praise the policy as a bold step forward toward reducing reliance on fossil fuels and improving air quality, builders and homeowners warn of higher construction costs, stress on the power grid, and affordability issues. Hochul’s All-electric Mandate Sparks Backlash Over Costs and Grid Reliability

The future of the Northeast Supply Enhancement Project (NESE), a proposed natural gas pipeline meant to serve New York City and Long Island, has entered a critical stage. Although the state Public Service Commission (PSC) recently ruled that the pipeline is needed to ensure downstate reliability, the ultimate decision rests with the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), which must rule by the end of November. Environmental advocates argue the project threatens public health and the climate, citing longstanding concerns about stirring up toxic materials in New York Bay and increasing greenhouse gas emissions. They believe Governor Kathy Hochul holds the political power to stop the project and warn that her decision could have major implications for her reelection prospects. Opposition groups have intensified pressure on Hochul by organizing protests, collecting signatures pledging not to support her if the pipeline proceeds, and disrupting her public appearances. These efforts mirror strategies previously used against former Governor Andrew Cuomo during the fracking debates. Critics claim Hochul is willing to advance the project as part of a broader energy deal, though she has denied any such arrangement. Political rivals are also seizing the moment. Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado has positioned himself alongside anti-pipeline activists, using the PSC’s decision to argue that Hochul is siding with polluters at the expense of communities and a clean energy future. The PSC insists its determination was based on reliability needs, particularly the risk of severe winter outages and not on political influence. The DEC maintains that its review will be rigorous and grounded in water quality and environmental standards. The project has been rejected in the past, most recently in 2020, when regulators concluded it would harm the climate and was not necessary to meet gas demand. However, with the PSC now emphasizing reliability concerns, environmental authorities may face greater pressure to approve the pipeline. While only one PSC commissioner voted against the order, critics fear the approval process is trending toward allowing the pipeline to move forward. They warn that doing so could trigger an election-year showdown, with climate advocates determined to hold Hochul accountable for what they see as a betrayal of New York’s clean energy goals. Climate Activists Prepare Political Showdown with Hochul Over Pipeline Decision

A Cayuga County man in Upstate New York is facing multiple charges after state police say he accidentally shot himself while attempting to fire at a road sign. The incident happened Tuesday afternoon in the town of Fleming, according to officials. The Post Standard reports that a 55-year-old man from Auburn was arrested after troopers responded to a call about an individual with a gunshot wound. New York State Police said the suspect, who was intoxicated at the time, fired a handgun at a street sign while driving past it. Instead, he struck himself in the arm. Authorities confirmed the man’s injury was not life-threatening. However, investigators say he was illegally in possession of the 9mm handgun used in the incident. In addition to the weapons violation, police said the man was driving while intoxicated. He now faces several charges including DWI and a felony weapons charge. The case remains under investigation. Drunk New York Man Accidentally Shoots Himself After Firing at Road Sign

Screenshot from WKBW The Niagara Falls City School District has joined forces with the nonprofit Sleep in Heavenly Peace to make sure local children have a proper place to sleep. Officials announced the initiative on Wednesday, describing it as a vital step toward meeting the needs of the community’s most vulnerable students. Superintendent Mark Laurrie underscored the seriousness of the problem facing the district . “The need for bedding and a good night’s sleep for our kids is one of the basic needs that everyone needs to have a functional productive day,” Laurrie said. “Knowing that we have about 400 homeless children in the district, and others that are sleeping on couches and pallets, it’s just not right.” Sleep in Heavenly Peace, a volunteer-driven organization, has been active in Western New York for several years. The Buffalo chapter alone has built and delivered more than 6,200 beds since its start, each at a cost of roughly $300. The beds are provided to children at no charge. Chapter president Jerry Sheldon said the program is about much more than furniture. “This is more than just a bed, this is very important to these children, and quite frankly, it’s very important to the adults that are volunteering,” Sheldon explained. “We’ve given purpose, fellowship, friendship to a lot of folks who made this a big part of their lives, and that’s the reason why we’re so successful.” Community members are encouraged to contribute to the cause. Support can come in the form of financial donations, new bedding items such as sheets, pillows, and mattress pads, or volunteering to help build and deliver beds. Donations of bedding can be dropped off at Bloneva Bond Elementary School in Niagara Falls. The new partnership has already received significant support. Laurrie noted that an anonymous donor contributed $10,000, while John Cousins, who heads the Tallahassee chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace, pledged another $10,000 during Wednesday’s announcement. Cousins shared the stark realities that many children face: “The stories that we have about these kids, not just that they don’t sleep in a bed, they’re sleeping on a couch, floor, sometimes they’re sleeping on their own clothes or baby pallets,” he said. “I didn’t even know what a baby pallet was - it’s a changing pad. That’s what kids are sleeping on.” For additional details about Sleep in Heavenly Peace or to request a bed for a child, families can visit the organization’s website: https://shpbeds.org/chapter/ny-buffalo/ Those interested in volunteering can reach out by email at kevin.burgess@shpdbeds.org jamie.schmidt @shp.or). Niagara Falls Schools Launch Partnership to Provide Beds for Children in Need

The City School District of the City of Niagara Falls, New York (NFCSD), held its regular monthly review meeting on Thursday, September 11, 2025.   Superintendent Mark Laurrie provided a report on the first days of the 2025–2026 school year. The secured vestibules and other district safety measures received high marks at all of the district’s buildings. School open houses and orientations were all well-attended. All district schools are well-staffed and all necessary learning materials were in place by day one. There are a record 45 students in the Niagara Falls High School (NFHS) Trades program. Student attendance has been strong. Laurrie thanked parents for their patience for bus challenges due to a shortage of bus drivers. The Smart device (cellphones, etc.) ban has been going very well with and school staff setting an excellent example. Students and staff members at all schools are becoming familiar with the district’s nuisance alarms – alarms that are activated if any outside door is propped open. There are still students in the district who have not yet received mandated vaccinations which are required to attend school. Students who are not vaccinated will be unable to attend school after September 17, 2025. Laurrie shared more information about the first school days of the Smart device/cellphone ban. He thanked the students, staff, and parents for a smooth start to the new rule. Board Member and Niagara Falls High School Senior Harjyot Kaur remarked that the noise level at the high school has increased because people are now talking to each other face-to-face, and that the ban has kept the school “calm and focused.” District Transportation Coordinator Kasey Dixon gave an update on bussing and the My Ride K–12 bus app. Due to a driver shortage, there have been some bus-related issues, but these are being steadily resolved. To download the My Ride app, parents and guardians need their child’s student ID number. Student IDs can be obtained by contacting the child’s school. Download instructions are available on the district’s website homepage. Real-time bus tracking using the app provides estimated arrival and departure times, as well as ridership alerts, including delays. Laurrie reviewed the voting agenda for the September 25, 2025, Board of Education meeting. The board will vote to approve or disapprove 29 items, and eight short-term contracts, including agreements with:   Lift Enrichment Program, LLC (Fall 2025) Student Wellness through Culinary – for workshops with visiting chefs at Abate/Hyde Park $20,000.00 Sept. – Dec., 2025 Fight Night Boxing - Fundamentals of Boxing $20,000.00 (40 students are expected to participate) University at Buffalo Center for Assistive Technology- for assistive technology training for students and staff, Sept. 2025 – June 2026 New Business Items to be voted on at the September 25, 2025 meeting: Approval of a contract for professional services between the NFCSD and the Niagara Falls Boys & Girls Club for the 716 United Mentoring Program (September 26, 2020 – June 30, 2025) Approval of a contract for professional services between the NFCSD and Niagara University for Early College High School Programming (September 26, 2025– August 2026) Approval of a contract for consulting services between the NFCSD and Winning Because I Tried Enterprises, Inc. for student support services (September 26, 2025 – December 31, 2025) Approval of a contract for consulting services between the NFCSD and Native Language Services, LLC. for student support services (September 26, 2025 – December 31, 2025) Approval of a contract between Say Yes Buffalo and the NFCSD   Superintendent’s Report: Nine Class of 2025 August graduates will be honored at the next board meeting (September 25, 2025, 7:00 p.m.) Two students who received perfect scores on the New York State Tests will also be recognized at the September 25 meeting On September 24, 2025, the district will hold a news conference to announce a partnership with the organization Sleep in Heavenly Peace Thank you to the UB Dental School for donating toothbrushes and toothpaste Fall sports physicals ran smoothly this year. The district began accepting physicals from students’ own primary care physicians. Of 502 fall athletes, 481 visited their own doctors Additional speed bumps have been installed at Niagara Falls High School   The next meeting of the City of Niagara Falls School District Board of Education will be held on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at 5:30 PM. Niagara Falls City School District Board of Education Meeting Notes from September 11th

Say Yes Buffalo has come to Niagara Falls Schools for the inaugural year of Say Yes Niagara Falls By: Niagara Falls City School District Superintendent Mark Laurrie The numbers tell the story. Since Say Yes Buffalo was founded in 2011, the Buffalo Schools’ graduation rate has increased from 49% to 79% in 2023. The number of students attending college in a given year has increased from 890 in 2012 to an average of 1,122 students per year over the last decade. Now, this generous and successful program is launching Say Yes Niagara Falls this year! The 2025–2026 school year marks the inaugural year of a partnership between Say Yes Buffalo and the Niagara Falls City School District (NFCSD) to launch Say Yes Niagara Falls. Building on Say Yes’ mission to remove barriers to educational attainment, workforce participation, and economic mobility for students, this partnership is focused on promoting fairness for all racial groups. Say Yes helps cover college tuition and supports students from early school years through their careers. The goal remains to help more students graduate from high school, pursue further education, and gain quality job access. Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, Say Yes Niagara Falls will introduce four key programs. These are based on the successful Say Yes Buffalo model. The programs are Community Schools, the Breaking Barriers Youth Leadership Council, and the Modern Youth Apprenticeship Program. The Promise Scholarship will be available starting in the 2026–2027 academic year. Starting in 2025 Community Schools provide school and neighborhood resources to help students learn and strengthen families. The main feature is Saturday Academies, where schoolwork, health, and social services all come together. These academies also support community growth and engagement. In Niagara Falls, they will rotate between four schools: Harry F. Abate Elementary School, Gaskill Preparatory School, Bloneva Bond Primary School, and Cataract Elementary School. The Breaking Barriers Youth Leadership Council is part of the Greater Buffalo Racial Equity Roundtable’s Boys and Men of Color Initiative. It aims to help boys and young men of color achieve success in school and in their careers. The program is open to young men aged 12 to 24 years old. Each participant commits to one year. They learn to advocate for social justice, racial equity, and policy change. The program also offers career exploration and recreation opportunities. Modern Youth Apprenticeship Say Yes Buffalo helped create the CareerWise Greater Buffalo Modern Youth Apprenticeship program. They worked closely with the school district, local colleges, employers, and industry partners to help young people find paid apprenticeships that lead to full-time jobs. The program offers paid work, on-the-job learning and coaching, classes at approved schools, and full support during the placement. It is expanding to include the Niagara Falls High School class of 2026. Starting in the 2026–2027 school year Say Yes Buffalo and Niagara Falls leadership are working toward a $20 million goal to fund the Say Yes Niagara Falls Scholarship Endowment. This endowment aims to provide every Niagara Falls High School graduate with support to pursue college or further education after high school. Details about awards for the Class of 2027 will be shared as the campaign progresses and will depend on the amount raised. Say Yes Niagara Falls will be the first expansion of the highly successful Say Yes Buffalo initiative. These opportunities will truly be a game changer for our students and community. Together, we can build a brighter future and ensure that every child has the support they need to reach their full potential. Niagara Falls Schools Say Yes to a brighter future for students

Ontario Provincial Police say a Niagara Falls, New York man has been charged following a fatal wheel-off collision on the Queen Elizabeth Way near St. Catharines. The crash occurred on September 23rd just east of Niagara Street. According to investigators, a wheel detached from a pickup truck traveling in the Fort Erie-bound lanes, crossed the median, and slammed into two oncoming vehicles. Police confirmed that the impact killed a 53-year-old driver at the scene. A 52-year-old passenger in the same vehicle was rushed to hospital with injuries described as non-life-threatening. The driver of the pickup truck, a 33-year-old man from Niagara Falls, NY, was not injured in the incident. He is now facing charges of operating an unsafe vehicle and having a detached part. A section of the QEW remained shut down for about four hours while officers conducted their investigation. Niagara Falls Man Charged After Deadly Crash on QEW in Ontario

A Niagara Falls resident is facing federal charges after prosecutors say he repeatedly tampered with a CSX railroad switch this summer, creating the risk of derailments involving trains carrying hazardous chemicals. The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced the arrest Wednesday following the filing of a criminal complaint. According to the complaint, the incident began on June 22nd when Amtrak employees informed CSX workers that a padlock had been swapped on a switch at the CSX Transportation Niagara Rail Yard on 29th Street. Railroad switches allow trains to shift from one track to another. The trains operating in that yard regularly transport chlorine, sulfuric acid, and bleach. Investigators say Amtrak’s lock had been removed and replaced with one designed to be opened with a universal key. Because of the lock change, the switch could not be operated quickly, delaying a passenger train. On June 23rd, CSX installed surveillance cameras in the area. Footage allegedly showed 66-year-old Charles Wilson entering the yard on an ATV and changing the padlock. Workers then had to remove the unauthorized lock and restore the switch to its proper setting. The U.S. Attorney’s Office said Wilson’s alleged interference created “an interruption and safety concern that could have resulted in a derailment of train cars containing hazardous materials.” Wilson was allegedly caught on camera again on July 1st, this time operating a mechanical hand switch and moving it into a new position. Additional surveillance images placed him on CSX property on July 2nd and July 6th. Officials warned that the potential consequences of the tampering could have been severe. They said the possibility of a derailment involving hazardous freight would have been “catastrophic.” The complaint also notes Wilson’s history with CSX police, stating he has been the subject of investigations for “various issues” dating back to 2013. He was previously arrested in 2014 and 2016 on charges of criminal trespass and criminal tampering. Wilson now faces a federal charge of attempting to disable a CSX railroad switch “in a manner that could cause derailment or damaged railroad equipment.” The offense carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Following his initial court appearance, Wilson was ordered held pending a detention hearing. Charles Wilson from Niagara Falls Charged After Railroad Switch Tampering

A federal appeals court has upheld major provisions of New York’s firearm law that ban guns in heavily populated and “sensitive” areas, including Times Square, the subway system, and commuter trains. The ruling, issued Friday by the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, affirms a 2023 lower court decision that kept the law in place despite a challenge from gun rights advocates who argued the measure infringes on Second Amendment protections. In a 50-page opinion, the three-judge panel concluded that the contested parts of New York’s Concealed Carry Improvement Act align with the nation’s long-standing traditions of regulating firearms in certain public spaces. The decision said the plaintiffs were “unlikely to succeed” on the merits of their constitutional arguments. “There is perhaps no public place more quintessentially crowded than Times Square,” the court wrote. “In short, Times Square is our modern-day, electrified, supersized equivalent of fairs, markets, and town squares of old. We therefore need not stretch the analogy far,’ to conclude that [the law] is entirely consistent with our historical tradition of regulating firearms in quintessentially crowded places.” The restrictions stem from legislation signed by Governor Kathy Hochul in July 2022. That law tightened firearm licensing rules, expanded background check requirements, and classified private property as “restricted” space where carrying guns is prohibited unless owners post explicit permission. Hochul pushed the measure through after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down New York’s longstanding requirement that concealed carry applicants demonstrate “proper cause” for obtaining a license in the 2022 N.Y. State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen ruling. Critics of the new framework argued that the concealed carry revisions were an attempt to undermine the Bruen decision. Although the Supreme Court declined to take up the fresh challenge, litigation proceeded in federal courts across New York. The 2nd Circuit had previously upheld other provisions of Hochul’s law, such as requiring applicants to show “good moral character” and giving private property owners authority to post signs barring firearms. Gun Owners of America, one of the groups behind the lawsuit, denounced the decision. The group’s vice president Erich Pratt said the ruling was a “slap in the face” to gun owners and contradicted the Supreme Court’s guidance in Bruen. “We will continue the fight against Gov. Hochul and anti-gun legislators in Albany until New Yorkers can finally carry for self-defense without infringement,” Pratt said. Meanwhile, New York Attorney General Letitia James praised the outcome, saying the ruling supports measures designed to keep communities safe. “New Yorkers deserve to feel safe on public transportation and everywhere in our state,” James said in a statement. “Common-sense gun laws save lives, keep guns out of sensitive community spaces, and help address the gun violence crisis. New York has some of the strongest common-sense gun laws in the nation, and my office will continue to defend them and protect New Yorkers.” Hochul’s Gun Restrictions Upheld by Federal Appeals Court

Michael Collesano, a Manhattan-based attorney and real estate broker, has filed a defamation lawsuit that places an insult about his genitals at the center of a court case. The suit was filed earlier this year in New York County Supreme Court. Collesano, owner of unit 11F at 155 East 34th Street, sued neighbor and fellow broker, Aimee Fink, alleging she launched a campaign to damage his professional reputation and business. The verified complaint chronicles what Collesano describes as months of harassment tied to a contentious board election at the Warren House condominium and specifically accuses Fink of making defamatory statements, interfering with his business dealings, and disparaging him personally and professionally. But the heart of the lawsuit lies in a single encounter: on January 17th, 2025, as Collesano and his wife were loading luggage in their condominium lobby, Fink allegedly motioned with her fingers to indicate a small distance and shouted: “you have a little dick.” Niagara Action has not independently verified the claims made in this lawsuit and presents them solely as allegations, which remain unproven unless and until established in court. The complaint claims the insult was made publicly, witnessed by building staff, and emblematic of a broader campaign of harassment. It also chronicles other clashes including Fink allegedly telling residents that Collesano was in arrears on common charges, disparaging his wife Mandy as “gross,” and accusing him of writing a letter that sparked panic among owners. The pleadings describe Fink as having used an alias email to probe his business, improperly shared confidential information, and leveraged her position on the board for personal gain. Two weeks after the January lobby incident, Collesano says he told Fink he intended to sue her. According to the filing, she responded by thrusting her middle finger in his face and calling police. The episode generated an NYPD report but no criminal charges. A Juris Doctor consulted for this story noted that many of the statements cited in the complaint — including the crude genitalia remark — are the type of insults and rhetorical flourishes that courts often treat as opinion rather than actionable fact. Under New York law, to prove defamation a plaintiff must show a false statement of fact, publication to a third party, and reputational harm. Vulgar insults rarely meet that standard. The timing laid out in Collesano’s complaint also complicates the case. The most prominent insult was made in January, yet his threat to sue came two weeks later. Critics argue this sequencing makes it appear that he escalated a personal dispute into formal litigation, thereby amplifying an insult that might otherwise have faded quickly. By filing suit, Collesano has guaranteed that the phrase he found so damaging will now be preserved in court records, press coverage, and online archives. Rather than suppressing the remark, the lawsuit risks ensuring its permanent visibility, a dynamic commonly described as the “Streisand effect.” Beyond the drama, the case raises deeper issues about Collesano’s conduct as an attorney bound by the New York Rules of Professional Conduct.: Rule 3.1 (Non-Meritorious Claims) bars lawyers from pursuing frivolous lawsuits. A case centered on vulgar name-calling risks being seen as meritless, brought not for legitimate redress but for revenge. Rule 4.4 (Respect for Rights of Third Persons) prohibits using legal means to harass or embarrass. By spotlighting humiliating personal insults, there could be an appearance of weaponizing the law against a neighbor. Rule 8.4 (Misconduct) broadly bans conduct prejudicial to justice or damaging to a lawyer’s fitness to practice. A lawsuit over playground-level insults risks eroding public confidence in the profession, in addition to using one's standing the legal system to injure others. Rule 3.2 (Delay of Litigation) forbids tactics designed only to burden or increase expense. If the suit’s purpose is to drain Fink financially, that too would violate professional duties. Rule 8.4(h) prohibits conduct reflecting adversely on a lawyer’s fitness to practice. Escalating a crude personal slight into high-stakes litigation calls into question one's judgment and restraint. Of note, Niagara Action is not stating that the above-referenced rules have been violated by Michael Collesano. Niagara Action, in consultation with an individual who has a Juris Doctorate, compiled a list of Rules of Professional Conduct that may be applicable given the facts outlined herein. Collesano’s lawsuit seeks damages for defamation, business defamation, and unfair competition, naming both Fink and her brokerage as defendants. He frames the case as a defense of his livelihood and reputation. DOWNLOAD THE FULL COMPLAINT HERE: New York Attorney Michael Collesano Sues Female Neighbor for Saying he has Small Genitals

Sensationalized, Uncorroborated Allegations Seek to Tarnish Reputation of Respected Niagara County Judge Caroline Wojtaszek In recent days, uncorroborated accusations made under the cloak of anonymity have been circulated by multiple disgruntled employees at Batavia Downs targeting both Niagara County Court Judge Caroline Wojtaszek and her husband, former President and CEO of Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp. (WROTB) Henry Wojtaszek. These claims, alleging that Judge Wojtaszek “verbally accosted” an employee during a public event, were reported without evidence, without independent and unbiased witnesses, and without so much as a name attached publicly. Yet the story was published in a way designed to impugn the reputation of a respected jurist with decades of service to Niagara County. At issue is a supposed confrontation at Batavia Downs on September 6th during the New York Sire Stakes “Night of Champions.” Judge Wojtaszek reportedly confronted a staff member critical of her husband. The story goes that she allegedly pointed a finger and called the staffer names, claiming opposition would not prevent her husband from returning to OTB’s board of directors. Of note, the "incident" is said to have taken place after it was publicly reported by multiple news outlets - all critical of Henry Wojtaszek for years - that he was likely to return to WROTB on the Board of Directors. What is absent from this account is telling: no independent or unbiased witnesses to corroborate the words allegedly spoken, no recordings, and no individuals willing to put their name to the accusations publicly. Instead, the narrative has been filtered through hearsay, relayed by employees with obvious motivations at a politically sensitive moment, which was Henry Wojtaszek’s reappointment to the OTB Board of Directors on September 16th. The timing and circumstances suggest a coordinated effort to damage the reputations of both Caroline and Henry Wojtaszek at precisely the moment of Henry’s return to public service. That such allegations, based solely on the word of individuals with their own internal grievances, were given the weight of a public scandal reveals more about the media’s appetite for sensationalism than about the character of Judge Wojtaszek herself. The reality is that Judge Wojtaszek has been caught up in the campaign to immune Henry's reputation that has been ongoing for half a decade. Judge Wojtaszek is no stranger to the public eye as far as her character being assessed. As the first woman to serve as Niagara County District Attorney, elected in 2016, and now as a sitting Niagara County Court Judge since 2020, her record has been one of professionalism, dedication to justice, and tireless advocacy for victims. In over two decades of public service, there has never been a single substantiated allegation of impropriety, nor criticism of her conduct in public. Her career reflects consistent leadership in some of the most difficult and emotionally charged areas of criminal law: prosecuting child abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, and homicide cases. These are not the domains of a thin-skinned or impulsive figure, but of a professional who has demonstrated time and again her ability to remain composed, impartial, and committed to the rule of law. Judge Wojtaszek’s record speaks louder than any anonymous claim. She personally developed programs to improve the prosecution of domestic violence cases in Niagara Falls, spearheaded efforts to address financial and physical abuse of the elderly, and worked alongside the Sexual Assault Response Team to strengthen investigations and provide trauma-informed training for law enforcement. She oversaw improvements to the Niagara Intelligence Crime Analysis Center by using forfeiture funds to enhance surveillance technology for local police. The allegations against Judge Wojtaszek hinge on the recollections of a single employee, repeated second-hand to others, and amplified by the media without corroboration. According to reports, the alleged victim told “several people” about the incident, but none of those individuals actually witnessed the exchange. Not one person claims to have seen or heard the judge say the words attributed to her. This is a fundamental problem. In journalism, uncorroborated claims made under condition of anonymity should be treated with skepticism, not amplified as they have been with respect to these claims. The employees making the accusations remain unnamed, their motivations unexplored, their credibility unexamined. Instead, the story is packaged as though a respected jurist had already been found guilty in the court of public opinion. The irony is unmistakable: Judge Wojtaszek, whose entire career has been dedicated to ensuring fairness, transparency, and due process, is now the subject of a narrative built on innuendo and hearsay. To attack her credibility in this way is not just unfair, it is defamatory. Why now? Why did these employees, who claim to have been troubled during Henry Wojtaszek’s tenure as CEO, not speak out publicly until after his departure in December 2024? Why wait until his reappointment to the OTB Board of Directors to suddenly raise an incident allegedly involving his wife? The answer seems obvious. These allegations provide a convenient opportunity for critics of Henry Wojtaszek’s leadership to attempt to derail his return to OTB, even at the expense of tarnishing the reputation of his wife. Yet the facts of Henry’s record cannot be ignored. When Henry Wojtaszek first joined Western Regional OTB in 2010 as general counsel, the organization was struggling. By the time he became president and CEO in 2016, he was tasked with restoring stability, growth, and public trust. His leadership delivered results. Under his tenure, coin-in at Batavia Downs soared to nearly $1.2 billion by 2024 while net win approached $90 million. That growth translated into real benefits for taxpayers: nearly $10 million annually in surcharges and earnings distributions to WROTB’s 17 member municipalities, including Niagara County. Beyond the numbers, he oversaw the modernization of Batavia Downs by expanding hotel, food, and entertainment offerings, hosting concerts and major events, and transforming the venue into a regional destination. His focus on fiscal responsibility balanced with customer service helped ensure the corporation’s continued financial strength. This success was recognized not only by legislators but also by former OTB Board Chairman Richard Bianchi, who called Wojtaszek’s reappointment a “no-brainer.” At his reappointment meeting, Henry Wojtaszek pledged to donate his annual $4,000 board stipend to local charities, including the YWCA of the Niagara Frontier and a North Tonawanda food pantry, an act consistent with his long record of community service. It is within this context of success, growth, and community commitment that anonymous critics have emerged to undermine both Henry and Judge Wojtaszek. Against this record of service, from both Judge Wojtaszek and Henry, the current allegations appear flimsy at best and malicious at worst. No independent witnesses have confirmed the claims. No evidence has been provided beyond hearsay. The accusations emerged only after Henry Wojtaszek’s reappointment, raising obvious questions about timing and motive. To treat such claims as grounds for questioning Judge Wojtaszek’s fitness for office is to abandon fairness entirely. It undermines not only her reputation but also the integrity of the judicial system, which depends on the public’s trust in impartial and principled judges. Judge Wojtaszek has long been known for her professionalism, her compassion for victims, and her dedication to justice. That reputation is not erased by anonymous accusations repeated in the press. The allegations leveled against her – anonymous, uncorroborated, and conveniently timed – should be seen for what they are: an attempt to generate sensational headlines and derail Henry Wojtaszek’s return to public service by tarnishing his wife. Niagara County residents know better. They have seen Judge Wojtaszek’s decades of commitment, her trailblazing role as the county’s first female DA, her leadership in combating domestic violence, protecting children, prosecuting criminals, and serving justice with integrity. That record cannot be erased. Judge Wojtaszek has always held herself to the highest ethical standards. The public should recognize this for what it is: sensationalized allegations and opportunistic politics. Sensationalized, Uncorroborated Allegations Seek to Tarnish Reputation of Respected Niagara County Judge Caroline Wojtaszek

New York Governor Kathy Hochul was met with a hostile reception at the Ryder Cup opening ceremony at Bethpage Black where she was loudly booed multiple times by spectators. The event began with high anticipation for the matchup between Team USA and Team Europe, but it wasn’t the visiting side that drew the coldest response. Instead, Hochul, a Democrat, faced waves of boos from the Long Island crowd. The 67-year-old governor appeared undeterred, smiling and waving an American flag as she was introduced by event host Carson Daly. The jeers continued, however, with a second outburst of boos breaking out when Hochul’s name was mentioned during European captain Luke Donald’s address. Fans again voiced their disapproval a third time when Team USA captain Keegan Bradley thanked her for supporting the tournament. Hochul, who assumed office in 2021, currently holds a 54 percent job approval rating, according to a Siena College poll. Her favorability rating sits at 45 percent, with 42 percent of voters viewing her unfavorably. While the governor endured an icy reception, captains Bradley and Donald were warmly welcomed by the crowd. The ceremony itself was moved up by a day to avoid heavy rain expected on Thursday. Bradley praised his team, telling them: "You're bonded in a way I've never seen before. I've learned so much from you, about how to live, about how to compete, and about how to lead. You've changed me as a player and as a person. You've inspired me every day. Being your captain is an honor of a lifetime. Thank you. We are on a quest to reclaim the Ryder Cup! We face a mighty opponent. The challenge will be fierce. The pressure will be real." Donald also highlighted the meaning of the tournament, stating: "The Ryder Cup means so much to each and every one of us. It is unlike anything else in our sport. It is not about prize money or world ranking points. It's about pride. It's about representing your flag, your shirts, and the legacy you leave behind. The American team is rightly proud of their heritage, but so are we. Our European legacy is rooted in resilience, in togetherness and in proving people wrong. Time and again, we've shown that when we come together as one with a shared purpose, we can achieve remarkable things." He added, "what a place to try and do it again: New York City. New York is a place where if you show up with talent and a fighting spirit, the city will get behind you. Although maybe not if you're wearing European blue this week." Turning to his players, Donald concluded, "These 12 men are ready. Europe is ready. Enjoy the Ryder Cup, and we'll see you bright and early on Friday morning." Kathy Hochul Booed During Ryder Cup Ceremony as New York Crowd Voices Disapproval