Niagara County is poised to elect a new member to the Western Regional Off-Track Betting (WROTB) Board of Directors on September 16th, and many believe the best choice is former President and CEO Henry Wojtaszek who helmed the organization from 2016 until the end of 2024. His track record of growth, financial strength, and institutional knowledge make him uniquely positioned to help guide WROTB through its next phase. Wojtaszek first joined WROTB in 2010 as general counsel and retained that role until his promotion to president/CEO in 2016. Throughout his leadership, WROTB saw impressive expansion. By 2024, coin-in (the total amount wagered) reached nearly $1.2 billion with net win nearing $90 million, far above the levels in prior years. This level of revenue not only strengthened the organization’s finances but also provided greater distributions to the 17 member municipalities. His leadership helped WROTB project $90 million in net revenue and forecast almost $10 million in earnings and surcharge payouts for its municipalities for 2024. Wojtaszek’s contribution went beyond numbers. During his tenure, WROTB developed and enhanced amenities at Batavia Downs such as its hotel and food & beverage offerings, and expanded Batavia Downs as an entertainment destination with memorable special events, concerts, and improved customer service. His ability to balance strong fiscal performance with customer-oriented improvements has often been cited as a key reason the agency was in a solid position by the time he stepped down in December 2024. Local leaders - including Elliott Winter (his potential successor for the Niagara County board seat) - have noted that Wojtaszek “knows that company inside and out” and possesses “the most institutional knowledge of Western Regional Off-Track Betting.” Wojtaszek's return to the board would benefit Niagara County in several ways. His deep understanding of WROTB’s operations means less ramp-up time and more ability to immediately weigh in on financial, policy, and governance issues. Given that the board’s decisions have material impact on (1) how surcharges and earnings are distributed among municipalities, (2) how branches are run, and (3) how the entertainment and gaming venues are managed, having someone with his experience helps ensure those decisions are well-informed. With Niagara County holding eight votes out of 99 under the weighted voting system, selecting a board member who understands both the institutional levers and the community responsibilities is critical. Critics will point to controversies in Wojtaszek’s tenure, many of which have been exaggerated due to political influences and personnel vendettas by certain reporters, but his experience and success at WROTB is unquestioned. With his return to the board, Wojtaszek could contribute oversight, continuity, and institutional memory that benefits Niagara County’s taxpayers. In short, Henry Wojtaszek’s financial achievements, leadership during expansion, and deep understanding of WROTB make him a strong addition to represent Niagara County on the Board. Niagara County Stands to Gain With Wojtaszek Back on OTB Board

The Lewiston-Porter School District is conducting an internal review after a staff member made social media posts the district described as “concerning.” On Monday morning, Superintendent Paul J. Casseri issued a letter to the community acknowledging the issue and pledging action. “Please be assured that we take these concerns seriously and are committed to addressing the matter promptly and thoroughly, in accordance with District policies,” Casseri wrote. He emphasized that Lewiston-Porter’s foundation rests on “the core values of kindness, respect, integrity, empathy, and compassion. These principles guide our decisions, shape our school culture, and represent the standard we strive to model for our students each day.” Casseri said the matter will not be publicly discussed further because it involves personnel, but stressed that the district is committed to making sure it is addressed in the appropriate way. No details have been released by the district about either the content of the posts or the identity of the staff member involved. In a separate letter to employees, Casseri underscored the importance of responsible online behavior. “As public school employees, we are not only educators, but also public figures. We work for the taxpayers of the Lewiston-Porter community, and our actions, both in and out of school, reflect on the district,” he stated. While noting that employees have the right to free speech and personal opinions, Casseri cautioned that those rights must be balanced against professional obligations. “Just as the Supreme Court once rule in Schenck v. United States that one cannot falsely shout ‘fire’ in a crowded theater, our words and actions must be measured against the potential to cause harm or concern within our community.” Many parents in the district believe that the identify of the teacher should be publicly released, citing a need for transparency and accountability. "We need to know who is teaching our children," said one concerned parent who did not wish for her identity to be released. "There should not be an appearance that the Lewiston-Porter School District is protecting one of their employees." Another Niagara County Teacher Makes Vile Social Media Posts After Charlie Kirk Shooting

New York Attorney General Letitia James, long known for her clashes with President Donald Trump, says she now finds herself on his “enemies list.” James sat down with CBS News New York political reporter Marcia Kramer on The Point  to discuss her battles with Trump, ongoing investigations, and her role in New York politics. James’ office has taken the former president and his administration to court on multiple occasions, including a civil fraud case that initially resulted in a penalty of more than $500 million. That judgment was overturned last month by a state appellate court, which called the amount “excessive.” The attorney general’s office is now appealing the ruling. Since Trump’s return to office, the Department of Justice has issued two subpoenas to James’ office. “I'm on his enemies list,” James told Kramer. “Partly because we brought a case against him after a two-year investigation following a congressional hearing.” The DOJ has also accused her of mortgage fraud, a claim she dismissed as baseless. “In order to engage in mortgage fraud, you need intent. And there was no mortgage fraud on behalf of myself or any other individual. Mortgage fraud is a rare, rare, rare type of investigation and indictment, and the facts are not substantiated,” James said. “At the end of the day, we all know that the mortgage fraud is baseless and it's nothing more than an attempt to engage in retribution against all the actions I've taken against Donald Trump and this administration.” Despite the mounting political pressure, James insisted she would not be intimidated. “I cannot be paralyzed by fear,” she said. “The vast majority of my work, Marcia, believe it or not, has nothing to do with Donald Trump and or this administration.” In the New York City mayoral race, James has shifted her support. She initially endorsed City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams in the primary but has since backed Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani in the general election. “The reason why is because of his focus on affordability, an issue that, as you know, all throughout my career I've been focusing on the displacement of individuals, the crisis in affordable housing, individuals who, unfortunately, cannot afford items at their grocery store, individuals who complain to me each and every day about child care,” she said. “We're just losing a generation of individuals here in the city of New York, they're moving outside of New York City to other states, because they cannot buy a home. Some individuals are reconsidering whether or not they should even marry, whether or not they should have children, all because of the cost of this great city.” James praised Mamdani as someone who “provides hope and inspiration to countless generations,” adding, “I have not seen this since the last candidate who ran for president of these United States inspired individuals to believe in politics, to recognize that there are some good and wonderful individuals, and that public service is a rewarding career, and that more individuals should enter this career.” When questioned about how Mamdani would fund his ambitious affordability agenda, James pointed to wasteful consultant spending. She highlighted the CityTime scandal of 2010 where $500 million was fraudulently billed to the city and argued similar savings could be found today. “I believe that there are others,” she said. “I believe that, obviously, what we need to do is work with the City Council and the state Legislature to focus on all of the consultants that the city hires, that the state hires, that are engaged in overbilling to the state government, as well as the City Council.” James also weighed in on Mamdani’s public safety proposals, particularly his idea for a separate agency to handle mental health calls. “It's very difficult when you witness individuals in the throes of mental illness and, oftentimes, police officers are ill-equipped and don't have the tools and don't have the training to deal with individuals who are emotionally disturbed,” she said. “So his policy recommendation with regards to creating a separate agency, I think, is a good idea and is something that I have supported and recommended.” Still, James emphasized that open communication with law enforcement remains essential. “In addition to that, I believe that continuing to have conversations with members of the police force are, obviously, key to public safety,” she said. “Last but not least, having a wonderful leader, and that's why I've been recommending to him that we should keep Jessica Tisch as our police commissioner.” AG James Talks Trump's 'Enemies List' and Endorses Zohran Mamdani

Governor Kathy Hochul sharply criticized U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Monday, saying she was “fed up” with the agency’s tactics after its recent raid on a Cayuga County production facility left dozens detained and a local business in turmoil. Speaking at a press conference in Onondaga County, Hochul confirmed she met with the owners of Nutrition Bar Confectioners, the Cato-based plant that was raided earlier this month. ICE detained 57 workers during the operation claiming they were “unlawfully present” in the United States. Acting U.S. Attorney John Sarcone said five now face felony federal charges and that the others were “on their way back to their countries of origin.” However, a Central New York immigration attorney disputed that statement, and the U.S. attorney’s office has not clarified. “They’re struggling to keep their business afloat,” Hochul said. “I walked the factory lines. They were idle. They make products that are sold in Costcos and Walmarts and stores all across the world – nutrition bars. And they showed me the assembly lines that were silent where workers had just been just 12 days ago. They showed me the workers that were still there but many of them have been traumatized and many other workers have just not returned.” According to Hochul, the company’s owners said many workers remain missing or unaccounted for. One owner told her, “I could not believe that our little business here was subjected to a raid, people wearing masks, bursting in the doors with guns showing.” The governor condemned ICE’s methods, saying one agent “burst into a women’s restroom” and “yanked” a worker off the toilet before lining her up with others. “Is this really what America has come to? Where agents who claim they’re there to deal with violent criminals, turns out they only had administrative warrants they didn’t even have criminal warrants?” Hochul asked. She added that she has contacted White House border czar Tom Homan about the raid, particularly about mothers separated from their children - including three women with babies under one year old - but has not received a response. “I have told him in the past what I will help you, the state of New York will help you, law enforcement at my disposal will help you, if you truly are working to eliminate the threat of violent individuals from our communities,” Hochul said. “I personally think these federal representatives don’t give a damn,” she added. “I’m fed up with it.” Hochul also noted the fallout for the business itself: “They basically paralyzed a business. They don’t have enough employees now.” Hochul Defends Illegal Workers, Slams ICE for Doing Its Job

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 25th, 2025, at 5:30 PM. Niagara Falls School Board Meeting Notes, Superintendent Laurrie Discusses Start of School Year

A Buffalo man has been arrested and charged in connection with a string of nine burglaries that occurred this month across the city’s B and D districts, according to police. Authorities identified the suspect as 52-year-old Dale Gabler who was apprehended shortly after 1am on the 800 block of Amherst Street. Police said two residents reported Gabler had been in their car moments before officers caught up with him. The investigation revealed that Gabler entered the complainants’ home and attempted to load one of their vehicles with stolen property including a television and other electronics. He was confronted by the homeowners before being taken into custody. When police arrested him, Gabler was allegedly in possession of two wallets and 14 credit and debit cards not belonging to him. Officials noted he also matched descriptions from several other recent burglaries. Gabler has been charged with multiple felony counts including burglary, grand larceny, and criminal possession of stolen property, along with additional misdemeanor charges. The reported break-ins occurred between September 5th and September 15th on Middlesex and Hallam Roads, Plymouth and Richmond Avenues, Niagara and Amherst Streets, Lincoln Parkway, and Fordham Drive. Police also confirmed Gabler was on parole for previous burglary convictions at the time of his arrest. Anyone with video footage or information that could assist the case is asked to call or text the Buffalo Police Department’s confidential tip line at (716) 847-2255. The investigation remains ongoing to determine if the defendant is affiliated with any additional thefts. Police Arrest Serial Burglar

Chick-fil-A is set to open its first Niagara Falls location on Thursday, September 18th, at 6:30am, bringing new jobs, signature menu items, and a community celebration. The restaurant, located at 6610 Niagara Falls Blvd., will be operated by Buffalo native Aaron Hord and employ approximately 110 people. Hours will run Monday through Saturday, 6:30am to 10pm, with dine-in, drive-thru, carry-out and delivery options available. To mark the opening, guests who show up in cow-print attire on opening day will receive a free entrée. “It feels like a dream come true to open the first Chick-fil-A in Niagara Falls and give back to a community that means so much to me and my family,” Hord said. “I’ve called Western New York home my entire life, and I am honored to introduce Guests to Chick-fil-A's delicious food and signature hospitality while giving back to the community through local partnerships.” Hord, a graduate of the University at Buffalo, previously held director-level roles with local organizations and spent five years training at a Chick-fil-A in Depew before being selected as Owner-Operator. He lives in Niagara Falls with his wife, Jerren, and their four children. In addition to creating jobs, Chick-fil-A Niagara Falls will take part in the company’s Shared Table® program, donating surplus food to local nonprofits. The chain also announced a $25,000 donation to Feeding America to benefit FeedMore Western New York in honor of the new restaurant. Chick-fil-A, Inc., the third largest quick-service restaurant chain in the U.S., has more than 3,000 restaurants across the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico, with recent expansions into the UK and Singapore. Founded in 1967 by S. Truett Cathy, the family-owned company is known for its “Eat More Chikin” campaign featuring its iconic cows, which will be part of the Niagara Falls opening festivities. Chick-fil-A Opening First Niagara Falls Restaurant September 18th

Niagara Falls Police responded to 7-Eleven on the 1500 block of Pine Avenue around 8:30am on September 10th after reports of shoplifting. Upon arrival, officers spoke to the store manager who stated that a white male wearing an orange headband, black ski mask, and all black clothes entered the store and stole approx. $200-300 worth of candy. She stated that after he grabbed the candy, he fled the store in an unknown direction by bicycle. The manager further stated she did not tell the suspect to stop, nor did she attempt to intervene. Store surveillance did not capture the suspect taking candy but only showed him leaving the store. Officers searched the immediate area for the suspect but were unsuccessful. No further information is available at this time. Thief Steals $300 Worth of Candy from 7-Eleven

Governor Kathy Hochul directly called on mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani to issue an apology to the New York City Police Department for remarks he made in 2020 labeling the force “racist” and “a major threat to public safety.” Speaking Friday, Hochul offered her most pointed criticism yet of the Queens assemblyman, saying plainly, “I believe an apology is in order.” Mamdani had told The New York Times a day earlier that he would apologize to city officers, admitting that his earlier comments came “at the height of frustration” during the nationwide protests that followed George Floyd’s murder. At the time, Mamdani wrote on social media: “We don’t need an investigation to know that the NYPD is racist, anti-queer & a major threat to public safety.” When pressed by the Times  about whether he owed the police an apology, Mamdani initially hesitated but ultimately answered, “Yes.” Although the promised apology has yet to materialize, Hochul still credited him for acknowledging the need to repair relations. “I have a lot of respect for him for saying that and that he is going to do what he can to earn the respect of the men or women of the NYPD,” Hochul said while promoting state funding for law enforcement with a SWAT vehicle behind her. “I respect them immensely. I’ve seen them in action. So I think it’s an appropriate response.” Mamdani, who shocked the political establishment with his primary win in June, has since walked back his earlier “defund the police” messaging, particularly after the July killing of Officer Didarul Islam. His social media posts from 2020 included lines such as, “Together, we can tax the rich, heal the sick, house the poor, defund the police & build a socialist New York” and “We need a socialist city council to defund the police.” More recently, he has stressed that those statements reflected a moment of widespread anger. “My statements in 2020 were made amidst a frustration that many New Yorkers held at the murder of George Floyd,” he explained in July. Hochul, who is campaigning for re-election next year, has not endorsed Mamdani and continues to distance herself from parts of his progressive platform. Earlier this week on Bloomberg TV, she repeated her commitment to protecting high earners from increased income taxes. “I’ve said I don’t want to raise income taxes on high-net-worth people. I want them to know that New York is a place where we want to foster innovation. Be open to your success,” she said. Other political figures have also weighed in on Mamdani’s remarks. Mayor Eric Adams, a former NYPD captain, dismissed the idea of a simple apology as sufficient. “Apologizing to police is more than verbal,” Adams said. “Apologize for the failure of coming up with a real public safety practice. You can’t just verbalize this.” Democratic strategist Hank Sheinkopf suggested Hochul’s approach was politically calculated. He told the Post: “She can’t afford to have cops coming at her next year,” he said, warning that Mamdani’s rhetoric could energize Republicans. “Every time Mamdani opens his mouth he creates a Republican on Long Island. If she goes with Mamdani, the GOP will get 30% of New York City vote.” Ryan Adams, co-founder of HQZ Consulting, echoed that view, telling the Post that Hochul is navigating pressure from both wings of her party. “Kathy Hochul has been very smart lately. She’s seen what’s coming from the right but now sees what’s coming on the left,” he noted, adding that even without police endorsements, “she doesn’t want to seem anti-police in this moment.” Hochul Demands Mamdani Apologize to New York Police Department Over ‘Racist’ Remarks

A federal ruling on Friday has cleared the way for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to continue making arrests in and around courthouses across New York, despite challenges mounted by the ACLU and immigrant advocacy groups. District Judge P. Kevin Castel, who was appointed by President George W. Bush, determined that opponents of the policy had not shown sufficient evidence that ICE’s arrest rules were “unexplained, arbitrary and capricious.” His decision comes in response to legal arguments against the agency’s 2021 guidance, which authorized courthouse arrests, and the subsequent 2025 update that broadened those powers. In his ruling, Castel pointed out that the most recent guidance is “expansive and permissive,” explaining that ICE argued the shift was necessary because state and local governments refuse to honor immigration detainers at jails and prisons. These facilities had previously been considered secure environments due to their screening processes. However, Castel did strike down a Department of Justice policy that had encouraged immigration judges to dismiss cases quickly, allowing ICE to arrest migrants immediately afterward. The courtroom arrest strategy drew national attention in June when the Trump administration launched a program to apprehend undocumented immigrants directly after their asylum hearings. The policy has faced sharp criticism with opponents warning it discourages migrants from appearing in court. Viral social media footage of ICE detentions outside courthouses fueled outrage with critics describing the actions as tantamount to “kidnapping.” “In its fervor to expel as many immigrants as possible from the country, the Trump administration is targeting immigrants in the very place set up to adjudicate their status: immigration court,” Diana Konaté, deputy executive director of Policy and Advocacy at African Communities Together, wrote in a statement released by the ACLU. “Every day, our members are forced to choose between being kidnapped and/or put into expedited removal or risking deeper legal consequences because they're too scared to go to court. This is exactly what the administration intended — for people to be so fearful of enforcement that they forfeit the very resources and systems in place to protect them. We’re bringing this lawsuit on behalf of our members and fighting for justice.” Concerns about courthouse arrests have also surfaced within the judiciary itself. Earlier this year, Milwaukee Judge Hannah Dugan was indicted on federal charges, accused of directing an undocumented immigrant to use a private exit at the Milwaukee County Courthouse as ICE officials attempted to serve a warrant. Judge Upholds ICE’s Authority for Courthouse Arrests in New York

The Wilson Central School District has begun a formal investigation after a staff member’s social media activity raised concerns within the community. In a letter shared Friday on the district’s official Facebook page, administration addressed the issue directly, writing, “We want to assure you that we take these concerns very seriously.” Superintendent Timothy Carter emphasized that the district acted swiftly once the matter came to light, noting that the investigation was launched “in alignment with our core values of kindness, empathy, and compassion. These principles are not only central to our mission but are the foundation of the example we strive to set for our students.” While assuring families of a “fair and comprehensive review,” Carter also clarified that the matter involves personnel and therefore no additional information would be released at this time. The posts were about the death of Charlie Kirk. The fill statement can be found below: The Wilson Central School District was recently made aware of multiple social media posts by a staff member that have caused concern and distress among members of our school and broader community. We want to assure you that we take these concerns very seriously. The District is committed to addressing this matter promptly and thoroughly, in alignment with our core values of kindness, empathy, and compassion. These principles are not only central to our mission but are the foundation of the example we strive to set for our students. Upon learning of the situation, the District took immediate steps to respond. A formal investigation is currently underway, and we are following our established policies and procedures to ensure a fair and comprehensive review. As this is a personnel matter, we will not be providing additional details at this time. Thank you for your understanding and continued support. Timothy P. Carter Superintendant Niagara County School District Investigates Staff Member’s Vile Social Media Posts About Charlie Kirk

Niagara Falls Police were on routine patrol around 7:05pm on September 10th in the area of 24th Street and Forest Avenue when an SUV passed triggering the Axon ALPR, alerting officers that the vehicle’s registration was suspended. Officers quickly confirmed in EJustice that the registration was suspended as of July 7th, 2025, for insurance not in effect. Officers conducted a traffic stop and the driver, now identified as James D. Starks, complied. He provided a NYS I.D. card and admitted that his license was suspended. He was unable to provide proof of insurance. Military Towing was called to impound the vehicle. The license plates and registration were seized. Starks was issued uniform traffic tickets returnable to Niagara Falls City Court for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation in the second-degree, operate motor-vehicle when license/registration Suspended, and Operate Motor Vehicle without Insurance. No further information is available at this time. James Starks Arrested in Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls Police were on routine patrol around 6:45pm on September 9th at the intersection of 22nd Street and Pine Avenue when officers observed a vehicle pass by with an unknown black male, now identified as Marvin Porter, not wearing his seat belt. Officers turned around and activated their unit lights and initiated a traffic stop of the vehicle. Officers approached the vehicle and and spoke with the driver/sole occupant of the vehicle who immediately stated, “I put it on. I just pulled it off.” Marvin provided officers a Pennsylvania driver’s license and rental agreement for the vehicle he was operating. At this point, officers returned back to their patrol vehicle. While checking the driver status of Marvin, it was found and confirmed through NY EJustice that his NYS driver’s license was suspected (expired 8/15/2025). Officers returned back to the vehicle and requested Marvin exit the vehicle due to him being unlicensed. Marvin refused to comply, put his vehicle in drive, and immediately began to speed off recklessly. Officers got back into their patrol vehicle and began to follow Marvin. Officers followed behind Marvin from a safe distance observing him break multiple NYS vehicle and traffic laws. While behind him, officers observed him ignore multiple traffic control signs, travel unsafe speeds through the city roadways (almost 70MPH), failed to use proper signals when turning, and placed nearby citizens and local traffic in alarm and fear for their lives. At one point, Marvin did nearly collide into a separate marked NFPD vehicle. After a few moments, Marvin did stop the vehicle in the rear parking lot of Rapids Theatre. Officers performed a felony traffic stop, acquired a target on Marvin, and were able to safely take him into custody. Marvin was placed into the rear of a patrol vehicle and transported to police headquarters for booking and processing without incident. Officers observed a small burnt cigarette blunt in plain view on the center console and a clear plastic bag with unknown green lead-like material inside it on the floorboard of the driver door. The vehicle was searched for more intoxicants which concluded negative. However, officers did take custody of $4,010 cash, three cell phones, Marvin’s prescription medication and wallet, a black hat, and transported it to NFPD booking. The vehicle was towed. At booking, Marvin was given a Sotoza Oral Fluid Test which he voluntarily did. The sample tested positive for CNS Stim-Coc, cannabis and CNS Stim-Amp. However, due to his lack of sufficient exhibit cues from the standardized field sobriety testing that was performed, Marvin did not appear to meet the threshold needed for a DWI/DWAI. He was charged with various other vehicle and traffic related offences in addition to unlawful fleeing of a police officer, which is an A-misdemeanor. No further information is available at this time. Seat Belt Stop Spirals into Wild Chase Through Niagara Falls, Ends in Arrest and Seizure of $4k Cash

Niagara Falls Police responded to Tops at 7200 Niagara Falls Blvd. around 6pm on September 8th after reports of a shoplifter. Dispatch advised that the suspect left Tops on a bike going to the rear of the building. Officers located the suspect, Rashaan Houston, in the rear of the building and placed him into custody. Officers then made contact with the asset protection manager who stated he observed the male placing soap from the store into his backpack and walk past all points of purchase. Houston was stopped in the vestibule area by asset protection and handed over the stolen items. He then left the store. The total amount of stolen soap was $94.03. Houston was transported to 1925 Main Street where he was booked without incident and issued an appearance ticket. No further information is available at this time. Niagara Falls Shoplifter Fails to Make Clean Getaway with Almost $100 in Soap

Cheektowaga Police confirmed that a fatal crash involving three vehicles took place late Friday night on William Street, just east of the I-90. The incident occurred around 9pm and when officers arrived they were immediately faced with a fire that had engulfed the motorcycle and spread to one of the vehicles involved. According to police, the 20-year-old man operating the motorcycle was pronounced dead at the scene. The drivers of the other two vehicles were transported to area hospitals with injuries that were described as non-life threatening. Authorities added that both drivers are cooperating fully with the investigation. The incident remains under investigation and Cheektowaga Police are asking anyone with information to contact their department at (716) 686-3527. 20-year-old Motorcyclist Killed in Fiery Three-vehicle Crash

Niagara Falls Police responded to Target around 5:25pm on September 7th after reports of shoplifting in progress. While en route, dispatch advised that the male party had exited Target and got into an older model Chevrolet SUV. Upon arrival, officers met with asset protection who led them to the vehicle that the suspect entered, which was a 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe. Officers attempted to make contact from the driver side window and observed Tywaun Barnes to be in the passenger seat. Officers moved to the passenger side of the vehicle and immediately detained Barnes. He was patted down for weapons and placed in the rear of a patrol vehicle. Officers then made contact with the individual responsible for the vehicle who was walking back from returning a cart to the cart corral. The female stated that she was meeting Barnes to “buy some of his food stamps” but that was the extent of their relationship. A large bag was found in the vehicle that contained all of the merchandise Barnes removed from the store. All of the items not paid for – totaling $337.88 – were returned to the store. Barnes was transported to police headquarters for booking and processing. He was also trespassed from all Target properties. Failed Getaway for Tywaun Barnes Ends with Shoplifting Arrest at Target

Niagara Falls Police responded to the 1800 block of Pine Avenue – the City Market – on September 9th after reports of a robbery. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the victim who stated that a white male (around 5’10” with a medium build wearing a dark blue sweatsuit and short red hair) followed him from the 7-Eleven on the 1500 block of Pine Avenue to the City Market, asking him for a cigarette. He told the unknown suspect that he did not have any cigarettes. The suspect became enraged. He grabbed the victim’s bookbag from around his neck, ripped it off of him and took $25 from him. The victim further stated that when he pulled the bookbag off of him, he also pulled him off of his scooter causing him to fall to the ground and sustain injuries to his arm. The suspect then took off in an unknown direction. There is no known suspect at this time. No further information is available. Cigarette Refusal Leads to Robbery and Assault Near Niagara Falls City Market

Niagara Falls Police responded to Tops at 1000 Portage Road around 7:50pm on September 6th after reports of a shoplifter. Upon arrival, officers spoke to security who had Daniel McKean in custody. Security stated that McKean did not pay for several items in his cart, and also that he had attempted to return two coffee pots to customer service. Video footage showed that McKean did not enter the store with the coffee pots, which means he took them off the shelf. McKean ultimately walked past all points of payment and tried to exit the store without paying for the coffee pots and other items he was hiding. These items include a can opener valued at $12.99, two chuck roasts valued at $17.32 and $21.39, a pots and pan set valued at $57.99, and two blenders valued at $23.99 a piece. The total value of merchandise taken was $109.69. All items were returned to the store. McKean was detained and placed in the rear of a patrol vehicle. He was transported to police headquarters for booking and processing. No further information is available at this time. Dinner Plans Foiled for Tops Shoplifter Caught With Roast and Kitchen Set

Niagara Falls Police responded to Dollar Tree on the 800 block of Portage Road around 12:20pm on September 6th after reports of a shoplifter. While en route, dispatch advised that that a customer was following the suspect, now known as Daniel Panaro, described as a white male wearing a grey long sleeve shirt, dark colored pants and a peach colored bag. Officers made contact with Panaro at the corner of 18th Street and Walnut Avenue. He matched the description given by dispatch. Panaro did have a bag full of toilet paper, paper towels, and other cleaning. Panaro immediately told officers, “I didn’t have any money to pay for it.” He was detained, placed in the rear of a patrol vehicle, and transported back to Dollar General for a show up where he was positively identified as the shoplifter. The total amount of the stolen merchandise is $15. Panaro was taken into custody and transported to police headquarters for booking and processing. He was issued an appearance ticket and held for Cheektowaga Police who had an active warrant. No further information is available at this time. Suspected Arrested After Stealing $15 Worth of Toilet Paper and Cleaning Supplies

Niagara Falls Police responded to the Coastal Gas Station at 601 19th Street around 12:50am on September 6th after reports of 80 people loitering outside the store. Officers made contact with the store clerk who wished to have the people dispersed from the lot. While attempting to disperse the group a massive brawl broke out. Officers began giving numerous lawful commands for everyone to disperse the area. Despite their efforts, the commands were ignored and approx. 20-30 people continued to stay in the parking slot. Use of force was utilized to maintain order. One male, Jerel Diaz, refused to vacate the area after multiple commands were given. Officers used force to subdue him, after which he was handcuffed and placed in the rear of a patrol vehicle. Officers remained at the location documenting the scene. Minutes later, approx. 25 people returned to the 600 block of 19th Street and started to argue and fight. Officers again gave more commands to vacate the area. Force was once again used to disperse the crowd. Diaz was transported to police headquarters for booking and processing. He was charged with resisting arrest, trespass and disorderly conduct. Diaz was released with an appearance ticket. Massive Brawl Breaks Out After Midnight at Niagara Falls Gas Station

The Great Pumpkin Farm is set to launch its annual Fall Festival this Saturday, running from September 13th through October 31st, and once again transforming Clarence into a hub of autumn excitement. For more than a month, visitors will be able to shop for Halloween decorations and gifts, enjoy old-fashioned candy, apple cider, and baked goods, and take part in a wide variety of activities. Weekday admission is free except on Monday, October 13th, while weekend tickets cost $20 per person, $18 for seniors 65 and older, and children two and under receive free entry. Festivalgoers will find both new attractions and long-time favorites spread throughout the sprawling grounds. Guests can attempt to navigate the five-acre corn maze, enjoy a ride through the woods on the Zombie Paintball Train, bounce on giant jumping pillows designed for both kids and adults, or take part in pedal kart rides - new this year - with one free ride included in the price of admission. The park also features classic family fun such as hayrides through the Enchanted Forest, a petting zoo, indoor and outdoor playgrounds, and the Boo Barn with its spooky vortex tunnel. For thrill-seekers, highlights include the towering Pumpkin Hill Slide, the Big Oak Express Train Ride, apple cannons, and the Pumpkin Cannon, which launches pie pumpkins more than 3,000 feet. Entertainment is woven into the weekends with a variety of shows and live performances. Magic Mike and Annie will bring a blend of comedy and illusions to their interactive magic shows, while bubble shows outside the activities building promise a whimsical spectacle on select dates. Themed experiences will also bring added excitement with zombies and clowns wandering the corn maze on specific weekends in September and October. Families can also enjoy balloon creations from a balloon artist, try their luck at the Old Western Shooting Gallery, or stop by the “I Got It” game, open each weekend throughout the festival. Contests remain at the heart of the Fall Festival giving visitors of all ages a chance to take part in friendly competition. Children and adults alike can dive into pie-eating contests, decorate pumpkins with gourds and corn husks, or team up for mummy-wrapping and scarecrow-making competitions. Photographers are invited to submit their best images of the Great Pumpkin Farm dating back to 1996 for the annual photo contest, which offers $500 in cash prizes. One of the most anticipated events of the season is the World Pumpkin Weigh-Off, taking place on October 4th, when growers from around the globe turn their attention to Clarence to see which massive pumpkin will take the crown. The season culminates with costume contests on the final weekend, inviting kids and adults to dress up for the chance to win Pumpkin Man Bucks, while the Pumpkin Olympics give everyone the chance to compete in playful challenges either individually or as part of a team. With its mix of attractions, contests, entertainment, and food, the Great Pumpkin Farm’s Fall Festival continues to be one of Western New York’s most popular seasonal traditions, offering something for every age group to celebrate autumn in style. The Great Pumpkin Farm’s Fall Festival Opens Saturday with Family Fun, Food, and Halloween Festivities

A New Jersey man and two of his family members are facing a series of charges tied to the murder and dismemberment of a man earlier this summer according to the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office. Authorities confirmed that 41-year-old Everton Thomas was taken into custody Monday at the Rainbow Bridge crossing while entering the United States. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers discovered Thomas had an active warrant issued in Camden, New Jersey, for first-degree homicide with a gun. The case stems from the disappearance of 48-year-old Harold Miller Jr. of Deptford, who was reported missing on June 14th. Investigators reviewed surveillance footage and cell phone records showing Miller arriving at a residence on Baird Boulevard in Camden around 11:30am on June 12th. Officials stated that the video captured the sound of what appeared to be a single gunshot shortly after his arrival. Miller was never seen leaving the home. Authorities allege that Thomas was later seen moving Miller’s vehicle and leaving it parked in Pennsauken. In the days following, investigators said Thomas’s wife, 41-year-old Sherrie Parker, and his son, 22-year-old Deshawn Thomas, purchased a chainsaw, containers, garbage bags, and cleaning supplies. According to officials, surveillance evidence also showed Everton and Deshawn making multiple trips to dumpsters and loading containers and garbage bags into a vehicle before departing the area. A search of Everton’s home on June 20th reportedly uncovered a loaded firearm with one round chambered and nine in a magazine, as well as suspected blood evidence inside the residence that matched Miller’s DNA. Authorities say Everton then fled to Canada. He was later intercepted at the border and remains in custody in New York pending extradition to New Jersey. He faces charges of first-degree murder, second-degree desecration of human remains, and fourth-degree tampering with physical evidence. Parker and Deshawn Thomas were also arrested Monday and are charged with second-degree desecration of human remains and fourth-degree tampering with physical evidence. Both are being held at the Camden County Correctional Facility. Officials are urging anyone with further information to contact Detective Jake Siegfried at (856) 225-5086 or Detective Andrew Mogck at (609) 519-8588. Man Charged with Killing and Dismembering Victim Captured in Niagara Falls

File photo A Buffalo man was taken into custody Wednesday following a disruptive incident at North Tonawanda City Court that resulted in injuries to a police officer. According to the North Tonawanda Police Department, officers were called to the courthouse around 11am for a report of an agitated individual. The man was identified as 36-year-old William R. Weigold III of Buffalo. Authorities stated Weigold had been “verbally berating court staff, court officers, and responding officers.” Weigold was escorted outside, but police say he continued creating a scene in the parking lot, “repeatedly and loudly swearing,” which drew concern from nearby residents and bystanders. Officers moved to arrest him for disorderly conduct, but Weigold ran, leading to a short foot chase. He was soon caught but resisted being handcuffed and fought with police before officers managed to subdue him. During the altercation, one officer was hurt, suffering injuries to the face and mouth that required medical care. Weigold now faces several charges, including a felony count of assault as well as misdemeanor counts of resisting arrest and obstruction of governmental administration. He was additionally cited for disorderly conduct. Following his arraignment in North Tonawanda City Court, bail was set at $25,000. He is being held at the Niagara County Jail. Courtroom Outburst in Niagara County Leads to Arrest and Injured Officer

A 36-year-old man has been arrested after an overnight crash left significant damage to the pool area at D’Amelio Park in Niagara Falls. Police say the incident happened around 3:30am Friday when a vehicle plowed into the park at Centre Avenue and Aaron Griffin Way. According to the initial call, the driver fled the scene but witnesses were able to provide officers with a description. Responding officers discovered a 2007 Cadillac Escalade badly damaged inside the pool area but unoccupied. Investigators ran the license plate and quickly determined the likely driver. He matched the description given and was already known to police through his association with the vehicle. A preliminary review of the crash suggests the Escalade had been traveling east on Garden Avenue at high speed before leaving the roadway. The SUV then smashed through a fence on the west side of the property, somehow clearing the pool without landing in the water and ultimately broke through another fence on the east side. Roughly 30 minutes later, police were called to a nearby home after the driver himself phoned authorities to report the accident, among other matters, and revealed his location. Officers took him into custody without incident. Driver Crashes SUV Through Niagara Falls Park Pool Area

Authorities in Upstate New York confirmed the death of a man who went missing earlier this month after leaving for a walk and never returning. James Langford, 57, disappeared on Tuesday, September 2nd in the County Route 61 area. According to officials, he left behind a note saying he was going for a walk, but when he did not come back the Washington County Sheriff’s Office classified the matter as “a missing, endangered person’s case” and sought public help in the search. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) became involved on September 5th after the sheriff’s office requested assistance from Forest Rangers. The coordinated search continued into the weekend. On September 6th, crews located Langford shortly after noon. Officials confirmed he was deceased. “It is with sadness we report that Mr. James Langford was located deceased in a heavily wooded area off County Route 64,” the Washington County Sheriff’s Office stated in an update. “The incident is not considered suspicious at this time however, the case remains under investigation.” Authorities have not released a cause of death. The DEC issued its own release on the discovery and reminded the public of available mental health resources, including the 988 hotline and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK. Police added that while a dog appeared in photos shared during the case, it was not involved in the incident. Upstate New York Man Found Dead Days After Going Missing On Walk

A tense standoff unfolded in Rochester’s Park Avenue neighborhood when federal immigration agents attempted to make arrests at a residential job site. The incident ended with agents leaving the area in a Border Patrol SUV that had its tires slashed as more than 100 protesters shouted at them and blocked their efforts. The enforcement action was led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, with participation from other agencies, including the IRS. Agents detained one worker identified by the roofing contractor as an employee with legal work papers who had been in the country for over two decades. Other roofers remained on the job site watched by protesters who grew in number as the situation stretched into a four-hour standoff. The confrontation is part of an increasing series of clashes between immigration agents and communities across the United States. In response to growing opposition, the Trump administration has expanded enforcement, even deploying National Guard troops in some cities. Recently, a raid in Cayuga County led to 57 arrests and officials have signaled that similar actions will continue throughout New York. Rochester has been a focal point for conflict over immigration policy due to its sanctuary city status. The designation has already prompted federal lawsuits against local officials including the mayor and city council president. Just weeks ago, the Rochester City Council reaffirmed its sanctuary protections, drawing further scrutiny from federal authorities. Construction is one of the industries most heavily reliant on immigrant labor, particularly in roofing and homebuilding. National figures show more than half of roofers are immigrants, while in New York, over a third of construction workers were born outside the United States. Advocates say this reliance highlights the stakes of increased raids in communities like Rochester. Videos from the scene captured ICE agents explaining that some roofers admitted to being in the country without documentation, which in their view justified immediate arrests without warrants. But as the standoff dragged on, immigrant-rights groups pressed the agents to leave, arguing that no further arrests would be possible and that the growing crowd was escalating tensions. Eventually, agents withdrew with the help of protesters clearing a path for their exit. The man taken into custody has not been publicly identified beyond his nickname and his employer expressed concerns about supporting the worker’s family and the financial impact on his business. Advocacy organizations framed the agents’ withdrawal as a victory, saying it demonstrated the power of collective resistance and solidarity with immigrant workers. Local faith leaders and lawmakers also rallied to the scene. Clergy emphasized unity in the face of what they described as divisive enforcement actions while state legislators from the area denounced the federal government’s tactics as discriminatory and politically motivated. They argued that federal officials were deliberately pitting communities against one another and eroding democratic principles through selective enforcement. The incident occurred just a day after a Supreme Court decision lifted restrictions on how ICE agents operate in Los Angeles, allowing them to target people based on race, language, or workplace. The Department of Homeland Security quickly celebrated the ruling on social media saying it would ramp up operations. Federal Immigration Agents Retreat After Upstate New York Protest Ends With Violence

Niagara County Sheriff Michael Filicetti reported the arrest of a Niagara Falls man on felony drug charges following an investigation by the Niagara County Drug Task Force. On September 5th, deputies arrested Anthony L. Hill Jr., 35, of Niagara Falls. Hill is charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, a felony under New York law. Following his arrest, Hill was booked into the Niagara County Jail where he remains held pending arraignment. No further information is available at this time. Anthony Hill of Niagara Falls Arrested on Felony Drug Charge

Niagara County Sheriff Michael Filicetti announced the arrest of a Niagara Falls man on drug charges following an investigation by the Niagara County Drug Task Force. On September 4th, deputies took Aleez M. Moore, 30, of Niagara Falls into custody. Moore is charged with one count of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell and one count of third-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance, both felonies in New York. Sheriff Filicetti said the arrest stemmed from an ongoing task force investigation into illegal drug activity in the county. Moore was booked into the Niagara County Jail where he is being held pending arraignment. No further information is available at this time. Aleez Moore of Niagara Falls Arrested on Felony Drug Charges

Guest Post by Frank Parlato @ www.frankreport.com I saw C harityWatch’s report on DELTA Rescu e and I realized at once, the author Laurie Styron, got it all wrong. It appeared to be a hit job on a wonderful organization. This led me to wonder, what is Charity Watch? CharityWatch presents itself as a guide for donors – an independent evaluator – grading charities for financial transparency and efficiency. It rates a few hundred nonprofits annually—out of the 1.5 million operating in the United States – issuing grades from A+ to F.On its website, its tone leans heavily toward criticism, often focusing on large, well-known nonprofits. It describes itself as the nation’s strictest watchdog, a gatekeeper for donor trust. It has gained its reputation by issuing harsh ratings of high-profile organizations. When CharityWatch issues a failing grade, headlines follow. Donors freeze. Reputations crumble. When a donor sees a D or F on CharityWatch, they assume misconduct. Charities serving veterans, animals, or the poor who receive a bad grade can lose crucial funding in days. In a world of measurable standards and shared accountability, one institution remains unbound. Its selection process for choosing the few hundred charities it evaluates is unclear. CharityWatch does not explain why some are graded while others are ignored. It does not publish a full explanation of grading calculations. No scoring system, formula, or rubric. There’s no chart, or way to trace an “F” back to its cause. The system appears rigorous because it is punitive. CharityWatch measures honesty. Donors believe it. The media quotes it. Because the watchdog said so. It is not government affiliated. It does not issue certified findings. There is no regulatory interference. There is no CPA oversight inhibiting its grading. No peer reviews hamper its findings. CharityWatch isn’t bound by GAAS or IRS protocols. It says it speaks for the donors. The quiet millions who want their money used well. It gives a far higher percentage of failing grades than the other, bigger watchdogs — GuideStar (Candid), Charity Navigator, and the Better Business Bureau. Strict Standards or Selective Scrutiny? Candid (GuideStar), Charity Navigator, and BBB Wise Giving Alliance use widely accepted data sources—IRS filings, audits, impact metrics—and subject their processes to scrutiny. They weigh mission impact, community service, and third-party audits. CharityWatch centers its judgment on discrepancies in tax form line items. They rarely mention impact. They don’t visit. They don’t see the work. The numbers are the whole story. Donors Quietly Avoid A donor with $100 and a good heart might read the F grade and walk away. They won’t call. They won’t ask. They’ll just believe that the charity is dishonest. A person wants to help. She reads about a sanctuary, a shelter, a school. Her heart leans in. Then CharityWatch gives it a D. She folds the check, turns the page. The donor thinks they’re smart. They checked the watchdog. They saw a grade. They chose wisely. Donors believe they are consulting a neutral guide. You’ve just donated to a charity. It has four stars from one watchdog. Gold transparency from another. Then you find CharityWatch. They gave it a D. A Grade Without a Grading System Grading systems imply standards. Criteria. A structure that can be understood, debated, improved. Charity Watch renders A+ to F without a rubric to contest, no data to verify. Its selective scope means its influence is outsized compared to their reach. Its ratings affect only a sliver of the sector. Often, the groups they rate are prominent—or the most likely to generate controversy. CharityWatch doesn’t look at all the charities. It picks a few. Imagine a ratings agency that claims to guard the public but inspects 0.02% of the field. You read its criticisms and think, “Maybe they’re right.” Then you look closer. No comments. No rebuttals. No transparency about their own governance. You look for how they know. There is no formula. You look for who they are. No funding trail. There is no panel of peers. No open debate. No rules of evidence. Yet, its decisions stick. In donor inboxes. In press clippings. In reputations, bruised. It is a strange thing—to wield so much power from such a private place. One Woman, One Platform, No Accountability at CharityWatch Few people realize it, but CharityWatch is just a one-woman organization. Laurie Styron is the executive director and chief analyst. One woman, a pen, and a platform. No active board. No CPA license. You ask how she got the authority? She took it. Her authority to grade is self-appointed. How does Styron decide the grade? She doesn’t say. She does say, “We’re the only watchdog that tells the truth.” A blog. A woman. No guidebook. No chart. She writes a letter grade. Media echoes it. Donors panic. CharityWatch tax filings do not disclose any staff. It does not say how much Styron makes out of the half a million CharityWatch takes in annually. It does not say how much Styron makes from her private consulting business – and if there is any conflict with the two as for instance a charity getting a higher rating if they learn how to improve with Styron’s consulting. Absent any staff one can assume Styron gets most or all of the reported $325,000 salary expense, plus likely a significant expense account as indicated in its tax forms. It’s quite something, really. One woman handing out verdicts with no cross-examination and the fate of a nonprofit hangs in the balance. A charity might serve thousands. Feed the hungry. Shelter the sick. But if it displeases the woman in the Chicago office, it earns a public shame. Styron says, “We’re tougher than the others.” Never mind the people who go without because a donor read her bad review and turned away. Somebody spends 45 years rescuing dogs – like DELTA Rescue, and CharityWatch drops a bad grade. No explanation. People don’t ask how the bad grade got there. They don’t ask what the label means. Donors just walk away. And somewhere, a shelter closes. A food line shortens. Nonprofits with spotless missions are discredited—without being heard. Punishing the Good, Rewarding the Anonymous Saving animals. Feeding kids. Keeping the lights on for someone who’s got nothing. The self-appointed “expert” is focused, intense, and destructive. A lady with a spreadsheet and no CPA license. She gives you a D.  Donors don’t realize her guidance is based not on audits, verified impact, or certified financial review—but on undisclosed metrics, a sample size that barely scratches the surface and her opinion. When she calls your nonprofit “wasteful”? The damage is done before anyone checks the facts. But the grades she assigns can alter the public image of a charity overnight. Her grades shape stories. Shape perceptions. Shape funding. What’s remarkable isn’t how the grades are given—but how people believe in their fairness. A single individual rates others for transparency, yet operates without it herself. And people treat it like gospel. Styron cherry-picks big names, reduces complicated accounting to a scandalous headline. The model thrives on spectacle.She says she speaks for the people—but she listens only to herself. She claims to reveal truth—but never explains how she found it. The Final Irony: No Oversight for the Oversight Queen Styron presents CharityWatch as a national authority on nonprofit accountability. Yet IRS records and public filings show a tiny operation. Its annual revenue is modest—about half a million dollars. Its infrastructure is minimal. No research department. No team of analysts going over forms. No investigative staff. No forensic accountants. No newsroom. No auditors. No review panel. No cross-checking. Laurie, and maybe one or two clerical helpers, maybe a junior assistant gofer analyst, depending on the year. You won’t find a funding breakdown. Still she’s seeking donations. Still, the grades keep coming. The press still quotes them. Pulling in half a mil a year. It’s a nice little business. A desk. A laptop. And Laurie. And we’re supposed to pretend it’s an agency with reach and rigor? Only a woman and her mandate—self-appointed, undisputed, unelected. With a consulting business on the side. Her CharityWatch website looks official. It’s just a blog with a letterhead. Candid—formerly GuideStar—draws on teams of data scientists, analysts, and policy experts to inform its public evaluations. Candid builds data hubs. Charity Navigator employs a full staff and maintains a dynamic, tech-based database of over 200,000 nonprofits. It has engineers and analysts and builds algorithms. They have teams. They have offices, boards, audits and standards. They review hundreds of thousands of organizations. CharityWatch? It’s got Laurie. She reviews a few hundred organizations. Despite this, CharityWatch’s grades are often quoted in media as if they carry institutional weight. It’s a blog. A one-woman grading service. A desk. A domain name. A brand built on inference. It doesn’t watch. It judges. You ever hear of a regulator with no rules? A referee with no league? Meet Laurie Styron. Meet CharityWatch. You want everyone else to be honest, Laurie? Here’s an idea: go first. CharityWatch Exposed: A Self-Appointed Watchdog with No Oversight

Governor Kathy Hochul is facing backlash after remarks she made to a predominantly Black congregation in Buffalo about how residents should use their inflation rebate checks. While addressing worshippers at True Bethel Baptist Church on East Ferry Street this past Sunday, Hochul noted that rebate checks included in the state’s $254 billion budget would soon be sent out, with some families receiving up to $400. She urged people to use the funds wisely, saying, “We collected more in sales tax. I said, ‘That’s not my money. That’s their money,’ you people across the state of New York. Checks are coming out soon. Watch the mail, OK? OK? Don’t spend it all one day. Get something you really need, OK? Don’t stop by the liquor store, OK? Buy something for the kids, buy them some food.” She went on to add: “Sometimes I have to stop by the liquor store, too. I understand. It’s all right. It’s all right.” The comments quickly drew fire from critics who labeled them racially insensitive. On Tuesday, after an event in New York City, Hochul responded by saying her words were intended as a lighthearted joke about the stress families face. “I wasn’t making any generalization about any particular community, at all,” Hochul explained. She acknowledged, however, that the phrasing was “not the best way to talk about” the rebate program. “My intention is never to offend anybody in that context, and I regret that that is the takeaway for some people. So, I’ll leave it at that.” Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado, who has announced plans to challenge Hochul in the 2026 Democratic primary, posted a video response on X while getting his hair cut in Syracuse. Quoting the governor’s “liquor store” line, Delgado, who is Black and Latino, said the remarks showed “bias” and a “disconnect.” He also pointed to Hochul’s 2024 statement at the Milken Institute Global Conference in California, when she said: “Right now, we have young Black kids growing up in the Bronx who don’t even know what the word computer is. They don’t know. They don’t know these things.” At the time, Hochul walked back those remarks, saying she had misspoken. Delgado argued the two incidents reveal a troubling pattern: “That’s a pattern, and it’s racist. It reduces whole communities to harmful stereotypes and strips away the dignity of parents and children alike. Words matter, especially when they come from the highest office in our state.” Representative Elise Stefanik, a Republican from Saratoga County and strong ally of former President Donald Trump, also criticized Hochul’s comments. In an email to reporters, Stefanik’s campaign said Hochul displayed a “disturbing pattern of racial insensitivity.” The statement argued, “First, Hochul said Black kids don’t know what a computer is. Next, she assumes the Black community is full of alcoholics who will blow inflation checks on liquor. If a Republican said this in front of a Black church, Al Sharpton and Democrats would demand apologies and resignations. Hochul should apologize for insulting the African American community not once, but twice now.” At Sunday’s service, Hochul praised church leaders Rev. Darius Pridgen and his son Rev. Craig Pridgen, along with local Democratic officials, including Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes, Council Majority Leader Leah Halton-Pope, and Council Member Rasheed Wyatt. Peoples-Stokes later issued a statement saying Hochul’s choice of words “could have been worded better,” but emphasized that the congregation understood her underlying message about spending rebate funds responsibly. “From my point of view, the remark was meant to be instructive,” she said. “The remark could’ve been made at any house of worship at any time. Unlike others, I was there that morning for services, so it is disappointing to hear other people, who were not in attendance, make accusations and try to be divisive for their own political gain.” Hochul to Black Church Congregation: Don’t Spend Rebate Checks at the Liquor Store

A 24-year-old Tonawanda resident is being detained without bail following a violent home invasion, according to City of Tonawanda Police Chief Robert Clontz. Andrew Williams was arraigned on Sunday and faces multiple charges including first-degree burglary, second-degree menacing, third-degree attempted assault, second-degree harassment, and forcible touching. Authorities say the case stems from an incident on Saturday on the 600 block of Fletcher Street. Police say that a man forced entry into a woman’s home and attacked her just as she was returning from an early morning walk. Clontz confirmed that officers apprehended Williams within 10 hours of the reported crime. Detectives and patrol units were able to make the arrest with assistance from local residents who shared both information and surveillance video that helped move the investigation forward. Man Held Without Bail After Home Invasion, Forcibly Touches Woman

New York legislators are intensifying their demands for accountability amid mounting evidence that Gov. Kathy Hochul’s administration may have improperly influenced the awarding of an $11 billion Medicaid home care services contract. The controversy deepened after Public Partnerships, LLC (PPL), the company selected to oversee payroll operations for the state’s Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP), admitted that earlier sworn testimony given to lawmakers was false. A company representative, Patty Byrnes, had previously testified that there had been no contact with state officials before the contract was finalized. However, in a subsequent letter to the State Senate, Byrnes acknowledged that her testimony “were not accurate.” “There were general communications with DOH staff (of which I was unaware at the time I testified) in late March and early April when NY was considering the possibility of moving to a single FI program,” the PPL letter explained. The revelation has heightened concerns that the contract process may have been improperly influenced. “Something here stinks,” said State Sen. Steven Rhoads (R-Nassau). “These families deserve to know the substance of those communications; who was involved; whether they influenced the bid drafting and selection process and if so, whether anyone in the Hochul Administration or her donors benefited as a result. We want answers. And so should all New Yorkers.” State Senate Investigations Committee Chair Jim Skoufis (D-Orange), who co-led a recent hearing with Health Committee Chair Gustavo Rivera (D-Bronx), said the evolving testimony raised more concerns than it resolved. “All these statements, all these amendments to testimony, all of these comments now, since the hearing only elicit more questions,” Skoufis said. While PPL has been cooperating with the inquiry so far, Skoufis noted that subpoenas remain a possibility. Rivera, meanwhile, stressed that the flawed transition has already hurt both patients and workers. “Senator Skoufis and I are clear that PPL’s handling of the transition has been unacceptable and they will be taken to task to ensure that New Yorkers receive reliable home care from workers who are paid appropriately,” Rivera said. The controversy stems from sweeping changes to the CDPAP program, which reduced hundreds of payroll service providers, known as fiscal intermediaries, down to a single state-chosen company. The move has created widespread disruption, with many patients and aides experiencing payment delays and other administrative challenges. During last month’s hearing, Health Commissioner Jim McDonald also testified that there had been no prior contact between his department and PPL before the formal procurement process. “New York is a big state. You hear a lot in New York all the time,” McDonald remarked, rejecting suggestions of bid manipulation. “My team did an honest \[request for proposals] and an honest bid and did an honest evaluation. And they did a good job of this. We did what we were supposed to do.” The Hochul administration has not directly addressed PPL’s admission. A spokesperson for the governor had previously stated, “The shift to a single fiscal intermediary went through a standard procurement process at DOH, following the law passed by the State Legislature – and no State officials knew who would be selected until the procurement process was complete.” Meanwhile, a Department of Health spokesperson defended the commissioner, saying, “As Commissioner McDonald testified before Senate leaders, he was not aware of any communications between Department of Health staff and PPL that occurred prior to the procurement process.” PPL has declined to issue further comments on the matter. Lawmakers Accuse Hochul of Bid-rigging $11B Home Care Contract

In the early morning hours of August 14th, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) carried out an operation at Lynn-Ette & Sons Farms in Albion, New York, that resulted in the arrest of seven workers, including four from Mexico and three from Guatemala. After reports of the incident surfaced, ICE clarified that the enforcement action was not a random raid but rather the result of an intelligence tip. The agency stated that its officers were pursuing a specific individual who had a final removal order issued by an immigration judge in December 2020. Officials emphasized that their enforcement operations are guided by targeted leads and that they do not indiscriminately arrest individuals. ICE publicly named the workers it detained. The disclosure that the action was based on a tip has fueled speculation among workers that farm management may have played a role in alerting federal authorities, particularly as tensions rise over an ongoing labor dispute. Workers at Lynn-Ette have been organizing under the United Farm Workers (UFW) as part of a statewide push to unionize agricultural labor following New York’s 2019 law granting farm workers collective bargaining rights. On July 1st, workers secured a contract providing higher pay, health benefits, and retirement contributions, but Lynn-Ette has not recognized the agreement. The August arrests marked the second enforcement action at the farm in three months. In May, federal agents intercepted a bus transporting workers, arriving with a list of names that included key labor organizers, and detained 14 individuals. It is unknown the extent of Lynn-Ette’s involvement in contacting ICE as a form of retribution. UFW leaders have not directly accused farm management of notifying federal authorities but argue that ICE’s presence has undermined organizing efforts. They note that workers who have lived and labored in the United States for years now face deportation and that the environment of fear created by these arrests has disrupted union activities. According to the UFW, the recent enforcement actions have stalled progress on securing recognition of the contract, making it more difficult for workers to advocate for better wages and conditions. ICE Denies Random Raid, Says Tip Led to Arrests of Farm Workers in New York

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Rainbow Bridge border crossing in Niagara Falls arrested a United States citizen who had an active warrant out of Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, New Jersey, for murder.  On September 8th, CBP officers encountered Everton Thomas, a 41-year-old-male from New Jersey, entering the United States on a commercial bus. During Thomas’s examination, CBP officers discovered a  National Crime Information Center  (NCIC) match that indicated that he had an active warrant for his arrest. Subsequently, the man was taken to the secondary inspection area by CBP officers to verify the warrant. During the secondary inspection, CBP officers verified Thomas’s identification and confirmed that he had an active arrest warrant from the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office for Homicide with a Gun, a first-degree felony. “As part of our unwavering commitment to safeguarding our nation’s borders, our officers remain vigilant in identifying and apprehending individuals attempting to evade justice,” said Buffalo Assistant Port Director Richard Diamond. “This arrest demonstrates the critical role our team plays in supporting law enforcement efforts across the country. Thanks to the dedication and professionalism of our officers, a fugitive wanted for homicide in New Jersey has been taken into custody and will now face the justice system.”  After processing and confirming the arrest warrant, the man was turned over to the New York State Police. Everton Thomas remains in custody and awaiting extradition to New Jersey. Fugitive Wanted for Murder Captured at Niagara Falls Border Crossing

Buffalo police say an SUV driver was taken into custody Sunday night after striking a church van carrying children. Authorities identified the driver as Nathaniel Graham, 52, of Buffalo. He has been charged with two counts of driving while intoxicated. The collision happened around 9:15pm at the intersection of Genesee Street and Bailey Avenue. According to police, the church van was heading east on Genesee and attempted a left turn onto Bailey when it was hit by Graham’s SUV. Police confirmed that no serious injuries were reported. Officers on scene administered field sobriety tests and Graham later took a breath test. The investigation into the crash is still ongoing. Drunk Driver Arrested After Crash with Church Van

A 15-year-old boy suffered serious leg injuries Thursday morning after being hit by a vehicle in Niagara County while waiting for his school bus. The incident occurred just before 7am on Beattie Avenue in Lockport. New York State Police reported that a 17-year-old driving a Ford Explorer veered off the road, went through a yard, and collided with a parked car in a driveway. That vehicle was pushed forward and struck the teenager who had been waiting nearby. Troopers said the 15-year-old was transported to Erie County Medical Center with significant leg injuries. The driver of the SUV was also hospitalized. Authorities said no arrests have been made. The incident remains under investigation. Teen Struck by Car While Waiting for School Bus in Niagara County

Niagara Falls police are investigating a Monday night shooting that left two people hospitalized at Erie County Medical Center. Authorities say gunfire broke out near 19th and Walnut Avenue around 7:15pm. Officers were dispatched following reports of shots fired and were informed while on the way that there might be at least two victims. When police arrived, they found a man outside 615 19th Street with a gunshot wound to his leg. Niagara Falls firefighters and an AMR ambulance crew provided aid before transporting him to ECMC. Shortly after, officers learned of a second victim who had shown up at Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center in a private vehicle. That man was stabilized and then taken to ECMC by ambulance for further treatment. Detectives recovered two shell casings from the roadway on 19th Street. An investigation into the shooting remains ongoing and there are no known suspects. Another 19th Street Shooting Sends Two to Hospital in Niagara Falls

New York Attorney General Letitia James announced Monday that she is stepping into a legal dispute involving a New York doctor accused of prescribing abortion medication through telehealth to a patient in Texas. "I am stepping in to defend the integrity of our laws and our courts against this blatant overreach," James said in her statement. She continued, "Texas has no authority in New York, and no power to impose its cruel abortion ban here. Our shield law exists to protect New Yorkers from out-of-state extremists, and New York will always stand strong as a safe haven for health care and freedom of choice. I will fight every last attempt to roll back our rights and turn back the clock on reproductive freedom." The case stems from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s lawsuit last month after a New York county clerk declined to file a judgment worth hundreds of thousands of dollars against Dr. Margaret Carpenter. Carpenter, accused of sending abortion pills to a woman in Collin County, Texas, co-founded the Abortion Coalition for Telemedicine, an organization supporting providers in states with shield protections. Paxton, in remarks to The Texas Tribune, denounced James and labeled her "a lawless abortionist" and asserting that he will prevail in court. Shield laws, such as New York’s, prevent doctors and medical professionals from being targeted by states with abortion bans, even if services are provided remotely. New York adopted its shield law in 2022, following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. New York Attorney General Letitia James Intervenes in Texas Abortion Lawsuit

WATCH VIDEO BELOW A disturbing incident caught on video at a local Buffalo store has ignited outrage after a woman unleashed a series of racist remarks at the checkout counter while packing her groceries. In the video, the woman can be heard yelling, “Nobody would ever let their kid date a brown dude,” a statement that immediately drew condemnation from nearby shoppers. Her tirade continued with further derogatory remarks, including, “Yeah, I bet those Muslims are going to look after you,” and a mocking response to a woman who said the man beside her was her brother: “Yeah, he’s my brother because he’s black.” Other customers quickly expressed disgust, with several shouting that they had “had enough” of her behavior. A store supervisor arrived and appeared visibly upset, confronting the woman as she attempted to justify her comments, claiming the man she targeted “knows exactly what she means.” Ultimately, a security guard - himself a Black man - assisted the woman by packing her groceries and escorting her out of the store as tensions remained high in the checkout area. The scene has drawn attention to a broader cultural climate where racially charged harassment has become more visible in recent years. Witnesses described the moment as both shocking and disheartening. VIDEO Racist Outburst in Buffalo Store Checkout Line Sparks Backlash: 'Nobody would ever let their kid date a brown dude'

Farmers and laborers across New York say stepped-up immigration enforcement under the Trump administration is threatening both their livelihoods and the state’s multibillion-dollar agricultural industry. Experts caution that without urgent action from Congress, farms that depend heavily on undocumented workers could face devastating consequences. Although much of the immigration debate tends to center on New York City, tens of thousands of agricultural workers live and work in rural areas upstate and on Long Island. These workers help sustain more than 30,000 farms making them essential to the state’s food supply. Many say the heightened risk of immigration raids has left them fearful of everyday tasks such as driving to the store, taking their children to school, or even showing up for work. Farmhands note that without their labor, basic farm operations would grind to a halt. Some warn that livestock and crops could suffer if workers are removed, threatening the stability of dairy and produce operations that rely on a steady workforce. New York ranks among the nation’s top producers of yogurt and is second in apple production, but the $8 billion agricultural sector is vulnerable to disruption. Analysts argue that the industry cannot survive without immigrant labor, much of which is undocumented. One challenge is that while temporary agricultural workers can enter the U.S. through H-2A visas for seasonal roles such as apple picking, year-round jobs like dairy farming are not eligible under current rules. That leaves many dairy farms with no legal option but to depend on undocumented employees. Communities in places such as Niagara and Suffolk Counties, where immigrant populations are deeply integrated into local farming, are especially unsettled. Advocates say even the detention of a single worker can cause ripple effects as families retreat from public life out of fear, avoiding schools, grocery stores, and medical care. A shrinking workforce also poses broader economic risks. Labor shortages could drive up operating costs for farms, leading to supply constraints and higher prices for consumers. Meanwhile, undocumented New Yorkers contribute billions in state and local taxes each year, underscoring their role in supporting the broader economy. Farm owners stress that these jobs are not unattractive because of low pay as many positions offer $20 per hour or more, but because they demand physical labor that fewer U.S.-born workers are willing to take on. They argue that immigrant labor is critical to keeping farms running. Labor organizers report that more farmworkers are reaching out to learn about their rights in the event of immigration raids. Recent operations in Orleans County led to more than 20 workers being detained across two incidents in May and August, intensifying anxiety among families who have lived and worked in the region for years. Immigrants are constantly being apprehended and taken to the Niagara County Jail, which is the federally approved holding facility in the area. Although former President Donald Trump has suggested he might back legislation to allow certain undocumented workers in agriculture and hospitality to stay, no concrete policy has materialized. Nor has there been a change in enforcement actions by ICE. Instead, his administration emphasized strict enforcement, including offers of financial incentives for “self-deportation.” Many immigrant workers say such measures are unrealistic, noting that they have established lives, jobs, and families in the U.S. that they cannot abandon. Administration officials have defended their approach, saying it is aimed at fixing a long-broken immigration system and ensuring American food security. Yet some growers say they remain skeptical, arguing that politicians from both parties have failed to provide meaningful reform that balances enforcement with the needs of agriculture. Without a workable solution, many in the industry fear that farms across New York will continue to face worker shortages, economic instability, and an uncertain future. Immigrant Farmworkers in New York Issue Dire Warning of ICE Crackdowns

A member of Marquette University’s men’s lacrosse team from Western New York was killed in a car accident Friday night, the school confirmed. Noah Snyder, 20, of Getzville, and his teammate Scott Michaud both lost their lives in the crash. According to the university, four additional teammates were also inside the vehicle at the time. Snyder was pursuing studies in the College of Business Administration and had previously been recognized on the Big East All-Academic Team. Before joining Marquette, he played in the Buffalo Bandits’ youth lacrosse program and was a graduate of St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute. “Please keep Noah and Scott’s parents, siblings and families, and the Marquette Athletics and college communities in your prayers,” Marquette president Dr. Kimo Ah Yun said in a statement. “Noah and Scott’s lives were taken too soon and we share in the heartbreak of their teammates, coaches and those who knew them personally.” The Buffalo Bandits also honored Snyder, posting on social media: “The Bandits organization is deeply saddened by the sudden loss of Noah Snyder, a member of our youth lacrosse program. Noah was a beloved teammate, friend and brother to all. Our thoughts are with his loved ones.” St. Joe’s Athletics released its own tribute, writing: “The St. Joe’s community mourns the tragic passing of former lacrosse student-athlete Noah Snyder. We extend our deepest prayers to his family, friends, and teammates during this difficult time.” Local Lacrosse Player Killed in Car Crash

Governor Kathy Hochul on Friday criticized reports that former President Donald Trump and his advisers are considering a plan to influence the New York City mayoral race, warning him to keep out of local politics. According to sources, the White House team is allegedly weighing the idea of offering Mayor Eric Adams a position, possibly an ambassadorship, that would allow him to step away from his struggling re-election campaign. The move could open the path for former Governor Andrew Cuomo, making it easier for him to challenge Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani. “Contrary to what the president thinks, he’s not a king, he’s not a kingmaker, and he should not be anointing the next mayor of New York City,” Hochul said during a press conference following a separate event on Long Island. While she stopped short of naming Cuomo directly, Hochul indicated that her predecessor should “not be accepting” such support. “There will be a sense that people are compromised if they’re getting the road cleared because of who the president wants as the next mayor that he believes he can control, clearly that’s why he’s doing it. I have to stand up against that,” she added. Cuomo, speaking to reporters a day earlier, distanced himself from Trump’s involvement. “I don’t want him involved in the race,” Cuomo stated on Thursday. Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa has also been mentioned in reports as facing pressure to bow out of the contest, but he has rejected those calls. Hochul’s remarks mark some of her sharpest criticism yet regarding the mayoral election, which has become increasingly tense. Despite Mamdani clinching the Democratic nomination back in June, Hochul has refrained from issuing an endorsement in the competitive race. Meanwhile, other senior Democrats including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie have drawn frustration from progressives within the party for withholding their support of Mamdani, who remains the frontrunner. Hochul Slams Trump Over Reported Role in NYC Mayoral Race: ‘He’s not a kingmaker’

Starting January 1st, New York will extend its polystyrene foam restrictions to include disposable coolers. The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) confirmed that after the new year, food service businesses, manufacturers, and retailers covered under the law will no longer be allowed to sell foam ice chests, coolers, or similar containers designed to store cold items. State officials are urging consumers to switch to sturdier, reusable options rather than the single-use foam products. New York began phasing out polystyrene products in 2022 when restrictions on foam takeout containers and packing peanuts took hold. Lawmakers originally approved the measure in the 2020 state budget. Since then, restaurants have been prohibited from offering foam food packaging while manufacturers and stores have been barred from distributing packing materials made of the substance. Disposable coolers are the latest addition to the prohibited list. Officials say the rule is part of a broader effort to limit waste. According to the DEC, polystyrene is one of the most common sources of litter. The material easily breaks into pieces, does not quickly biodegrade, and can persist in the environment for decades. The material, however, will not be eliminated entirely from coolers. Foam will still be permitted if it is encased inside a more permanent shell, meaning reusable models may still contain it internally even after the ban takes effect. Further details on the foam ban are available through the DEC’s website. New York Ban on Foam Coolers Takes Effect Soon

Scientists have identified two newly discovered species of parasitic wasps that are spreading from New York across the country, raising concerns about their impact on ecosystems. The invasive insects, which originated in Europe, are now documented as far as the Pacific coast. The wasps reproduce by laying their eggs inside oak galls. Once the larvae hatch, they slowly consume the native oak gall wasps living inside, eating non-essential tissues first to prolong the host’s survival before eventually consuming it completely. Female parasitic wasps inject one or more eggs into a host, ensuring the larvae have a live food supply until they mature. While experts stress that the wasps do not threaten humans, their spread could destabilize natural systems. Researchers believe the species likely arrived in North America through imported oak trees or by stowing away on aircraft, and their populations have since expanded rapidly. "We did find that they can parasitize multiple oak gall wasp species and that they can spread, given that we know that the population in the west likely spread across regions and host species from a localized small introduction," said Kirsten Prior, professor of biological sciences at Binghamton University, in an interview with The Daily Mail. "They could be affecting populations of native oak gall wasp species or other native parasites of oak gall wasps." Scientists also warn that the invasive wasps may move beyond oak gall hosts and attack other wasp species that play important ecological roles. Initially thought to be a single species, Bootanomyia dorsalis has now been identified as two distinct types through genetic analysis—B. dorsalis sp. 1 and B. dorsalis sp. 2. Research shows that the New York population of parasitic wasps displays higher genetic diversity, which could mean they were introduced multiple times. Populations found in Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia show less diversity, suggesting they stemmed from a smaller founding group. The insects’ ability to live nearly a month as adults may explain how they traveled long distances on imported plants or in cargo. North America is home to around 90 oak tree species and about 800 species of oak gall wasps making the ecosystem particularly vulnerable. A recent study noted, "This finding of multiple introductions into the North American oak gall system – one of them apparently quite well-established across the Pacific coast – makes it reasonable to presume that the portcullis has been raised for parasitic wasp invasions, as it has been for so many other insects." Flesh-eating Parasitic Wasps Discovered in New York, Spreading Across U.S.

New York’s ongoing push to combat climate change is receiving major funding with Governor Kathy Hochul announcing nearly $28 million for 10 new energy efficiency and electrification initiatives under the state’s Empire Building Challenge, according to her office. The projects, which will directly impact more than 13,000 affordable housing units, are aimed at cutting the carbon footprint of large buildings, long recognized as some of the state’s biggest energy consumers. “New York State is once again leading by example and tackling one of the largest energy consumers - large buildings,” Hochul said. The effort will involve more than 123 million square feet of real estate across the state and is expected to leverage over $150 million in private sector investment. Funding will support a range of low-carbon solutions designed not only to lower emissions but also to reduce operating costs and improve residents’ quality of life. Many of the sites chosen are located in disadvantaged communities, ensuring equitable access to the benefits of clean energy, said Doreen M. Harris, President and CEO of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). Planned upgrades include geothermal heating, thermal storage, HVAC system improvements, and building envelope retrofits. For example, Ascendant Neighborhood Development will integrate geothermal and thermal storage systems in a dense urban environment, while groups such as Chartered Properties and the Syracuse Housing Authority will pursue full electrification to improve indoor air quality and energy performance. These examples, officials said, will act as models for how multifamily housing across New York can successfully transition toward clean energy. The initiative has earned support from state lawmakers. State Senator Kevin Parker said, “These projects will help reduce fossil fuel use, improve the quality of our housing, and most importantly, lower energy costs for families who are too often burdened by high utility bills.” Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal added, “Housing and energy efficiency go hand-in-hand.” To help building owners navigate these transitions, the state has also rolled out resources like the Retrofit Playbook for Large Buildings, a free online tool introduced in 2024 through a NYSERDA partnership with real estate leaders. The guide compiles case studies and best practices to streamline the adoption of low-carbon retrofits across the sector. Overall, the Empire Building Challenge is part of New York’s broader climate agenda, which includes over $5.6 billion in investments through NYSERDA and utility programs to decarbonize buildings. Officials say the latest projects signal not only a strong commitment to climate action but also a clear path toward more energy-efficient, affordable, and healthier living spaces across New York. Governor Hochul Unveils $28 Million in Energy Efficiency Projects to Curb Climate Change

City of Tonawanda police say a man is in custody after allegedly breaking into a woman’s home and attacking her early Saturday morning. The incident occurred at a residence in the 600 block of Fletcher Street, according to Police Chief Robert Clontz. While few details have been released, Clontz confirmed that charges against the suspect are pending. Following the arrest, the department issued a public reminder on safety precautions and urged residents to remain aware of their surroundings, avoid poorly lit or isolated areas, and contact police immediately if they feel unsafe. No further information is available at this time. Woman Assaulted During Home Invasion, Suspect Arrested

Niagara Falls Police responded to multiple residences in the LaSalle neighborhood – on 75th and 66th Street – after reports of criminal mischief on September 4th. Upon arrival at the 75th Street location, officers spoke to the complainant who stated that she woke up this morning and went outside to her 2011 Kia Soul and observed damage to her steering wheel column and key ignition. The complainant stated she parked the vehicle around 8pm on September 3rd and the car had been sitting there until she came out to get it in it around 5am today. She does not know who would have done this to her vehicle. However, she did not lock her vehicle the prior night. Officers observed damage to the steering wheel column and ignition. At the 66th Street location, officers were met by the complainant who stated she had returned back to her apartment at approx. 9:30pm last night and parked her vehicle on the west side of the parking lot. When she came out to her vehicle today at approx. 7:50am, her driver window was broken and the steering column ripped out. The door handle key lock to the driver side door was also ripped off. While at this location, another individual approached police stating that their vehicle was entered sometime overnight and approx. $115 in coins and $1 bills was removed. There are no suspects at this time. No further information is available. Car Thief Hits Three Vehicles in Same Neighborhood, Destroys Two Steering Columns w

Niagara Falls Police were en route to a call on Hyde Park Boulevard around 4pm on September 2nd for a possible drunk driver. While en route, the caller gave a description and NYS license plate reporting that it had just left and was traveling southbound on Hyde Park Boulevard. While responding to the area, officers observed the vehicle and began traveling behind it. During that time, officers watched the vehicle unable to stay in the lane and almost hit a pedestrian - likely a parent due to the time of day and school being in session - in front of Hyde Park Elementary School. Officers activated lights and sirens to initiate a traffic stop. The vehicle pulled into the Tim Hortons parking lot at which time they spoke with the driver and sole occupant Cheryl Hodge. Officers immediately smelled the heavy odor of alcoholic beverage emanating from inside the vehicle. While speaking with Hodge, she was having difficulty remembering where she was coming from and reported she was going home, although she passed her street by a few blocks already. At this point, Hodge was asked if she had consumed any alcohol to which she stated, “I had a couple . . . .” Officers asked if she had any injuries, had taken any medications or had any issues at which point she reported she had “vodka.” Officers then administered standardized field sobriety testing to Hodge. She failed all tests. Officers then administered a preliminary breath test to Hodge and she voluntarily submitted a sample of .205 BAC. Hodge was placed into custody and placed in the rear of a patrol vehicle. Her vehicle was searched for any intoxicants and an open bottle of Pinnacle Vodka was located on the front driver’s door, in immediately reach of where Hodge was sitting. Hodge was transported to police headquarters for booking and processing. At booking, a certified chemical breath test operator administered an official test to Hodge at which point she submitted a .23 BAC. Hodge was released with an appearance ticket. Drunk Woman Nearly Hits Parent in front of Elementary School

A Western New York couple is facing charges after authorities say they left their dog locked inside their former house without food or water. According to the Westfield Police Department, Angel Travis and George Travis were issued appearance tickets on August 30th in connection with an animal abandonment investigation. The case followed an arrest warrant that was previously filed in the Town of Westfield Court. Officers first went to the couple’s old residence earlier this month when both the landlord and nearby residents raised concerns that they had not seen the pair for several days. Police said that during that time, a dog had been left inside the property. Investigators later learned that Angel and George Travis had relocated to another state leaving the animal behind on its own. Police reported that the inside of the home was littered with feces and that there was no food, water, or signs of recent care for the pet. The dog was removed from the property and transferred to a local animal shelter. Authorities said the animal is recovering well and remains in good health. Angel and George Travis are scheduled to return to the Town of Westfield Court to answer charges of animal abandonment under New York’s Agriculture and Markets law. Local Couple Charged After Abandoning Dog in Vacant Home

Niagara Falls Police responded to the 1100 block of Centre Avenue around 5:40pm after reports of an unwanted party. Dispatch advised that two groups of people were actively fighting. While en route, dispatch was advised that a male named Shawn Sweet was concealing a firearm on his person. Officers were familiar with Sweet as he has had numerous interactions with NFPD over the years. Upon arriving at the location, officers observed Sweet walking on the north side of the street. Taking into account the fact that the caller stated Sweet had a firearm, officers exited their vehicle keeping their department-issued firearm at a low ready. Officers gave specific instructions to Sweet to stop where he was and to show his hands. Sweet ignored the verbal commands and began to run north through a yard. Multiple officers began to yell “stop running” and “police, stop.” He did not. Officers observed Sweet toss an object concealed in a red bandana into a pile of brush. Officers were able to cut Sweet off on the 100 block of Garden Avenue. He was detained and placed in the rear of a patrol vehicle. Sweet did not have any weapons on him at the time he was detained. Sweet said he ran because he “didn’t want to be involved.” Once Sweet was brought back to the 1100 block of Centre Avenue, officers searched the area where he had tossed the red bandana and object. It turned out that the object was a large glass pipe commonly used to smoke marijuana or tobacco. Speaking with the caller, officers learned that he and Sweet had an altercation in the City of Lockport on September 1st, 2025. The caller stated that he shot Sweet with an airsoft gun after Sweet threatened to stab him with a steak knife. When officers asked the caller if he saw Sweet with a handgun, he replied “I thought he might have had it on him.” Sweet was placed under arrest for disregarding verbal commands, preventing officers from doing their lawful duties, and fleeing. He was charged with obstructing governmental administration. Sweet was transported to police headquarters for booking and processing. He was released with an appearance ticket. No further information is available at this time. Suspect’s Knife Threat Prompts Fake Gun Report and Arrest After Police Chase