Monday, Aug. 31

•4900 block of Creek Road, MVA-property damage – 911 caller reported a one-car accident; mailbox impaled on windshield, vehicle partially in roadway. Patrol reported a food delivery driver became distracted while listening to GPS directions. Vehicle the crossed roadway and drove across a resident’s property, damaging the lawn and mailbox. Report taken.

•800 block of Pletcher Road, check welfare – Anonymous 911 caller reported a male and female screaming at each other. Officers spoke with both parties; subjects 10-4. No assistance needed.

•Ridge Road/Niagara Scenic Parkway, MVA-property damage – 911 caller reported a two-vehicle accident. Statements taken by patrol. Driver of vehicle No. 1 allegedly attempted to merge in traffic lane and failed to yield to vehicle No. 2. Vehicle No. 1 allegedly jumped curb and entered grass to avoid collision. Minor damages to both vehicles. Vehicle No. 2 passengers reported neck pain. Report taken.

•LPD patrol activity – Calls officer initiated. Vehicle/traffic stops for motor vehicle violations. One driver cited. UTT issued for town court. One warning issued.

Tuesday, Sept. 1

•University Drive, college campus, overdose – 911 call from campus safety. Patrol responded.

•300 block of Roosevelt Avenue, harassment – Caller said a neighbor directed his vehicle at caller and tried to hit her. Incident on camera. Patrol responded.

•900 block of Mohawk Street, harassment – Caller reported being cut off by a driver in a black Jeep. Male followed her home and engaged in a verbal altercation before leaving. Complainant requested no contact with other driver, only patrol checks of area. Report taken.

•1200 block of Cain Road, shots fired – Caller reported approximately hearing 20 gunshots in area over past five minutes. Officers responded.

•LPD patrol activity – Calls officer initiated. Vehicle/traffic stops for motor vehicle violations. Fourteen drivers cited with 16 UTTs issued for town court. Six warnings issued.

Wednesday, Sept. 2

•5900 block of Kline Road, domestic disturbance – 911 caller reported a male-female physical altercation. Male breaking items and threw knife at caller. Officers responded.

•Niagara Scenic Parkway/Center Street, northbound, check welfare – Caller reported a male sitting on guardrail. Male told officers he walked all night from Niagara Falls and became lost. Patrol assisted with courtesy ride.

•100 block of N. Seventh Street, disturbance not domestic – Caller reported neighbor playing loud music. Ongoing problem. Confrontation occurred. Officers responded. Report taken.

•Tuscarora/S. Seventh streets, traffic complaint – Caller reported several vehicles parked in a posted “No Parking” area. Vehicles ticketed by patrol. LPD supervisor advised.

•Lewiston/Upper Mountain roads, vehicle/traffic stop – Officer initiated. Driver charged with driving while intoxicated and tail lamp violation. UTTs issued for town court.

•LPD patrol activity – Calls officer initiated. Vehicle/traffic stops for motor vehicle violations. Five drivers cited and seven UTTs issued for town court. Six warnings issued.

Thursday, Sept. 3

•4500 block of Lower River Road, criminal investigation – 911 caller reported a possible violation of an order of protection. Officers responded.

•4600 block of Creek Road, theft – Caller reported a $10,000 theft. Money paid earlier to contractor who never showed up for work. Patrol said contractor agreed to refund customer but had yet to do so. Investigation pending. Report taken.

•5300 block of Military Road, hospital disturbance, not domestic – Officer initiated. Caller reported a male refusing to leave. Subject in parking lot bothering people. Courtesy ride provided by patrol.

•Location not listed, check welfare – Caller reported a male smoking cannabis while fishing with a 4-year-old child. Patrol located male. Cannabis extinguished on patrol’s request. Male advised not to drive impaired.

•200 block of Portage Road, assist public – 911 caller reported a male and female physically fighting in the lobby. Requests removal. Parties told officers no fight had occurred. Subjects then left via rideshare.

•LPD patrol activity – Calls officer initiated. Vehicle/traffic stops for motor vehicle violations. Two drivers cited and five UTTs issued for town court. Four warnings issued.

Friday, Sept. 4

•4000 block of Creek Road, LPD office, forgery – Per dispatch activity, walk-in complaint for fraud. Complainant sought a tarot card reading via social media, and said a male harassed her for a $30 payment, followed by a spam message received from computer company. Complainant notified bank provider. Patrol said no crime was committed or money taken. Report taken.

•Saunders Settlement/Chew roads, traffic complaint – Caller reported a black Nissan SUV, operating at intermittent speeds, and marijuana odor. Patrol located vehicle and conducted a traffic stop. No signs of impairment. Driver warned for driving on shoulder.

•LPD patrol activity – Calls officer initiated. Vehicle/traffic stops for motor vehicle violations. Zero activity. seven drivers cited with nine UTTs issued for town court. Reports taken. Three warnings issued.

Saturday, Sept. 5

•5300 block of Chew Road, theft – Caller reported the recent theft of $80,000 from residence and a potential suspect. Patrol responded, investigation pending.

•200 block of S. Third Street, domestic disturbance – 911 caller reported a male struck a female in the face with a box. Male now in bathroom. Officers responded.

•3000 block of Nevada Avenue, harassment – Caller reported her son was involved in an earlier incident at a high school football game and the youth’s parents are now harassing. Patrol advised that school resource officer will follow up.

•LPD patrol activity – Calls officer initiated. Vehicle/traffic stops for motor vehicle violations. Six drivers cited with seven UTTs issued for town court. Reports taken. Three warnings issued.

Sunday, Sept. 6

•4700 block of Creek Road, check welfare – Caller reported an intoxicated male in roadway. Male found intoxicated on road following an argument with a friend. Courtesy ride provided by patrol.

•Albright/Townline roads, fire – 911 caller reported a large fire in middle of woods with large amount of smoke. Police and fire responded.

•University Drive, college campus, sex offense – 911 complaint. Patrol responded.

•LPD patrol activity – Calls officer initiated. Vehicle/traffic stops for motor vehicle violations. Three drivers cited. UTTs issued for town court. Report taken. Five warnings issued.

On Sept. 12, at approximately 4:30 p.m., the Niagara Falls Police Department crash investigation unit responded to the intersection of Niagara Falls Boulevard and Tuscarora Road to investigate a two-vehicle crash involving a car and a motorcycle.

A 2015 Honda CBR 1000 motorcycle driven by a 31-year-old Niagara Falls man was traveling eastbound on Niagara Falls Boulevard when it struck the passenger side of a 2011 Dodge Journey that was westbound on Niagara Falls Boulevard making a left-hand turn onto Tuscarora Road. The crash was witnessed by an on-duty Niagara Falls Police officer who observed the motorcycle operating at an unsafe speed.

The intersection was closed for approximately three hours while evidence was collected and the scene was surveyed.

The operator of the motorcycle succumbed to his injuries at Erie County Medical Center. His name is being withheld pending notification of his family.

The driver of the Dodge remained on scene and cooperated with the crash investigators. The investigation is ongoing, but at this time, no charges are expected to be filed.

YMCA Buffalo Niagara unveiled the anticipated T-shirt for the 131st annual YMCA Turkey Trot. All registered Turkey Trotters will receive this commemorative shirt when they sign up. 

The YMCA Turkey Trot is a time-honored Thanksgiving Day tradition. The oldest consecutively run footrace in the world, the YMCA Turkey Trot is an 8K race that attracts 14,000 runners and walkers annually. Proceeds raised support YMCA Buffalo Niagara programs that empower youth, ensure health equity, and address this community’s greatest needs.

More than 5,000 trotters have already locked in their spot for the race through early bird sign-ups. For more information on this year’s race, visit www.YMCATurkeyTrot.org.

Locally founded in 1852, YMCA Buffalo Niagara is a charitable, community-based organization committed to providing programs designed to build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all. The YMCA's focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility is reflected in the variety of programs that are offered to all ages and abilities. A nonprofit organization, YMCA Buffalo Niagara serves more than 1 in 12 people annually through five membership branches and four camps throughout Western New York, as well as at over 40 community-based program sites. For more information, visit www.YMCABN.org.

Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Keane announced Dejuan L. Williams, also known as Juan Quionos, 43, of Buffalo, pleaded guilty this morning before Erie County Court Judge Jessica Kulpit. Williams, who was not offered a reduced plea, entered a guilty plea to all 12 counts in the indictment:

• One count of attempted murder in the first degree (class A-I felony)
• One count of attempted murder in the second degree (class B violent felony)
• Two counts of attempted assault in the first degree (class C violent felonies)
• Two counts of attempted robbery in the first degree (class C violent felonies)
• One count of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree (class C violent felony)
• One count of assault in the second degree (class D violent felony)
• One count of grand larceny in the third degree (class D felony)
• One count of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle in the third degree (class A misdemeanor)
• One count of unlawful fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle (class A misdemeanor)
• One count of reckless driving (unclassified misdemeanor under New York state vehicle & traffic law)

On the evening of Wednesday, April 15, at approximately 8:42 p.m., two on-duty Buffalo Police officers went to a convenience store on the corner of Prospect Avenue and Connecticut Street as customers. As the officers approached the entrance, they saw an armed robbery in progress inside the store. When the defendant saw the officers, he opened the door and fired a shot toward one of the officers outside of the building. The defendant attempted to cause the death of the police officer. The other officer subsequently discharged their firearm, resulting in injury to the defendant.

The defendant attempted to forcibly steal cash and cigarettes from the store while armed with a deadly weapon. Prior to the arrival of the police officers, the defendant attempted to cause the death of the store clerk by intentionally shooting the victim with an illegal gun during the commission of the crime. The victim, a 24-year-old male, was taken by ambulance to EMC where he was treated and released for an injury to his upper leg.

After he fired a shot at the officer, the defendant ran south on Prospect Avenue where he carjacked a vehicle. The defendant recklessly drove the stolen vehicle northbound on Prospect Avenue for several blocks before crashing into multiple unoccupied parked vehicles near Massachusetts Avenue. Responding officers performed life-saving measures until the defendant was transported by ambulance to ECMC where he received treatment for an injury to his arm.

Neither of the officers were injured during the incident. A weapon was recovered from the store’s parking lot and placed into evidence.

Our office previously announced that, after a conducting a review of this officer-involved shooting incident, it was determined the actions of both police officers were justified. The member of the Buffalo Police Department who fired the shots that resulted in injuries to the defendant was cleared of any criminal wrongdoing.

Today, Williams entered a guilty plea in a separate indictment. During the early morning of Saturday, April 4, the defendant struck the victim with a knife during an altercation on Tacoma Avenue in the City of Buffalo. The victim was transported to ECMC to be treated for an injury to his left arm. Wiliams entered a guilty plea to one count of attempted assault in the second degree (class E felony) in full satisfaction of the indictment.

Williams, who remains held without bail, is scheduled to be sentenced Tuesday, Nov. 17. The court committed to a sentence of 20 years to life in prison as a persistent felony offender.

Keane commends Det. Jennifer Zanghi, Det. Mark Costantino, Det. Joseph Ruggiero, Sgt. Shawn McCabe and members of the Buffalo Police Department for their work in these investigations.

The cases were prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Briana R.D. Kalman of the major crimes bureau, Chief Andres D. Ortiz of the felony trials bureau, and Chief Ashley M. Morgan of the homicide bureau.

Niagara County District Attorney Brian D. Seaman announced Thomas H. Summers Jr., age 53, of Newfane, was sentenced to a term of two to six years in prison for his conviction of vehicular manslaughter in the second degree. Summers had previously admitted to driving his truck while impaired by the combined influence of cocaine, methamphetamine and oxycodone, causing a crash that took the life of his passenger, 48-year-old Rodolfo Espinoza, on Lockport Junction Road in the Town of Lockport on July 16, 2025.

The sentence was imposed by Acting Supreme Court Justice Mario Giacobbe. The case was investigated by the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Vehicular Crimes Bureau Chief Christine Savoia and Assistant District Attorney Nichole Tarbell.

City of Buffalo press release

The City of Buffalo outlined its phased transition from Buffalo Roam to ParkMobile for mobile parking payments. Drivers can continue using either service while new parking signs are installed throughout the city’s metered parking areas.

The ParkMobile app is already active in Buffalo and allows drivers to pay for individual parking sessions without loading money into a prepaid wallet. The city is installing new ParkMobile signs across metered parking areas, prioritizing downtown, followed by Elmwood Avenue, Hertel Avenue, and the remaining metered areas. This work includes updating accompanying signs that detail parking hours and time limits.

The Buffalo Roam app currently remains available as an option to pay for parking, but will be gradually phased out with a final date of service still to be determined. The transition is intended to give drivers time to adjust and continue using money already loaded into their Buffalo Roam wallets. When Buffalo Roam is no longer supported, the city will provide instructions to the public on how to obtain a refund of any outstanding wallet balances.

Following the expiration of the city’s previous mobile parking payment contract, ParkMobile was selected in 2024 through a competitive request for proposals and determined by the previous administration to offer the best value to the city. The Buffalo Common Council approved the original ParkMobile agreement on May 15, 2024, and an amendment simplifying the transaction fee on June 24, 2025.

Alongside the mobile payment transition, the city is working to repair out-of-service pay-and-display kiosks while evaluating a broader plan to upgrade and replace the equipment. Restoring these machines is part of the city’s effort to maintain multiple payment options for residents and visitors.

Drivers should continue to follow posted parking hours, time limits, and restrictions regardless of which payment method they use.

Quick facts for drivers

•You can use ParkMobile now. Follow the instructions on the ParkMobile sign at your parking location and confirm the correct zone before paying.

•You can still use Buffalo Roam. Drivers may continue paying through Buffalo Roam during the transition, including in areas with new ParkMobile signs.

•Payments through either system are recognized. Parking enforcement officers can verify parking sessions purchased through both Buffalo Roam and ParkMobile.

•You can continue using your Buffalo Roam balance. Money already loaded into your wallet remains available to pay for parking through Buffalo Roam during the transition.

•An app is not the only way to pay. Drivers can use available street meters and pay-and-display kiosks. ParkMobile also offers a text-to-pay option listed on street signs.

•Parking tickets will not be delivered through ParkMobile. Buffalo has not adopted this ParkMobile feature. Tickets will continue to be placed on vehicles and handled through the City’s parking violations bureau.

The Niagara County Department of Health, in partnership with the Niagara County Office for the Aging, will offer a free diabetes self-management workshop. It will meet from 1-3:30 p.m. Mondays, for six weeks (Oct. 19-Nov. 23), at the North Tonawanda Library, 505 Meadow Drive.

This program covers both the physical aspects of managing diabetes as well as the emotional part. It is designed to improve an individual’s A1C and reduce complications associated with diabetes. The program has demonstrated proven health benefits and complements the diabetic medical management services people receive from their providers. Participants will enhance their ability to maintain active and fulfilling lifestyles, improve problem-solving and decision-making skills, as well as address the challenges of living with diabetes. Workshop topics also include improving food choices, increasing physical activity, and practicing coping skills to maintain nutrition and a healthy weight. Attendance at all sessions is recommended for optimal outcomes.

Individuals with diabetes or caregivers of persons with diabetes can register for the diabetes self-management workshop program by calling Jasmine Filkov at 716-431-5100, ext. 125, or email jfilkov@wnyicc.org.

For information on how participating in the workshops can help you manage your diabetes, visit www.niagaracounty.gov/DiabetesSelf-Management.

The Niagara Frontier Region of New York State Parks announced the annual permit lottery for the 2026 pheasant hunting season will take place Monday, Oct. 5. This will include the drawing for both the youth hunt and the regular season hunt.

Youth hunt permits will be required for the two days of the special youth hunting weekend – Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 10-11. The youth hunt, this year, will allow for a second hunter on the permit. For the regular season hunt, permits will be required for the three days expected to draw the heaviest hunting traffic: Oct. 17, 24 and 31.

There will be two separate hunts each day. The first hunt will be from sunrise to 12:30 p.m.  The second hunt will be from 12:30 p.m. to sunset.

Hunting throughout the regular pheasant season, from Oct. 17 to Dec. 31, is allowed at three State Parks: Golden Hill, Joseph Davis and Wilson-Tuscarora – except no hunting is permitted during the open firearm season for deer. Permits, however, are required on Oct. 10, 11 (youth hunt) and on Oct. 17, 24 and 31 (regular season).

As in the past, stocking will be done by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. No hunting is allowed on the following Friday release days: Oct. 9, 16, 23 and 30. There is no fee for the permit. Hunters awarded permits will have the option of naming one additional hunter on their permit.

Hunters interested in entering the permit lottery should mail in a separate, standard-size, 3-inch-by-5-inch file card or postcard for each date and park one would like to hunt. Only one permit will be issued to each hunter per day. Cards may be put into one envelope for each respective park and mailed together to the appropriate address listed below: 

√ Golden Hill State Park,  9691 Lower Lake Road, Barker; 716-795-3885                       

√ Wilson Tuscarora State Park, 3371 W. Lake Road, Wilson; 716-751-6361                          

√ Joseph Davis State Park, 300 Portage Road, Lewiston; 716-754-7766

 The file card should include: applicant’s name, address, telephone number, email address, hunting license back tag number, hunt date, a.m. hunt or p.m. hunt, and whish desired park location. Entries will be computerized to avoid duplications. All lottery entries must be received by noon Monday, Oct. 5. For more information, call the individual parks.

√ ‘Country Music’s Biggest Night’ airs live Wednesday, Nov. 18, on ABC & Disney+

Disney Entertainment Television press release

The Country Music Association has announced nominees for the 60th annual CMA Awards, recognizing the artists, songwriters, producers, mix engineers, musicians and music video directors whose work has defined country music throughout the past year. Nominees are determined by CMA’s 7,083 voting-eligible professional members, spanning every corner of the country music landscape.

“For six decades, the CMA Awards have celebrated excellence in country music,” said Sarah Trahern, CMA CEO “We’re grateful to CMA’s professional members, whose collective voice determines every nomination, bringing real expertise to the balloting process each year. Congratulations to all of this year’s deserving nominees. We cannot wait to celebrate our milestone anniversary together in November.”

Ella Langley tops the list with nine nominations, while other top nominees include Miranda Lambert with seven nominations, Kacey Musgraves and Ben West with five nominations each, Cody Johnson, Chris Stapleton and Stephen Wilson Jr. with four nominations each, and Dave Clauss, Luke Combs and Lainey Wilson with three nominations each. Vying for the night’s highest honor, CMA Entertainer of the Year, are Combs, Johnson, Langley, Stapleton and Wilson.

The 60th annual CMA Awards broadcasts live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena Wednesday, Nov. 18 (8 p.m. EST), on ABC and Disney+ and next day on Hulu.

First-time CMA Awards nominees include Smith Ahnquist, Avery Anna, Jack Antonoff, Tim Cofield, Carter Faith, Austin Goodloe, Muscadine Bloodline, Emily Ann Roberts, Caylee Robillard, Laura Sisk, Joybeth Taylor, Thelma & James and Ben West.

Empire State Wrestling (ESW) is set to deliver its next event, "Bang Your Head," scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Frontier Firehall in Niagara Falls. Alongside a card featuring top-tier independent wrestling talent, the evening will hold deep emotional significance for the local community as ESW hosts a special tribute to the late Andy Williams.

Williams, a North Tonawanda native who tragically passed away Sept. 5 at the age of 48, was a beloved figure whose talent bridged two completely different worlds. Internationally celebrated as the founding guitarist of the highly influential Buffalo metalcore band Every Time I Die, Williams seamlessly transitioned into the squared circle, becoming a staple on national television for All Elite Wrestling (AEW) as one half of the fearsome tag team The Butcher and The Blade.

Known for his distinctive look, hard-hitting style and immense heart behind the scenes, Williams was widely respected by fans, fellow musicians and locker rooms around the globe.

"Andy was a towering presence not just in stature, but in his kindness and creativity," ESW promoter Brett Stymus said. "He represented the grit and passion of Western New York to the rest of the world. We want to give his fans, friends and the local wrestling family a chance to come together, celebrate his life and give 'The Butcher' the hometown salute he deserves."

The tribute to Williams will take place during "Bang Your Head," allowing fans in attendance to come together in appreciation for Andy's incredible contributions to the worlds of professional wrestling and heavy music.

Frontier Firehall is located at 2176 Liberty Drive. Bell-time is at 7 p.m. (Doors open at 6 p.m.).

Also announced for "Bang Your Head":

√ An appearance by former WWE Tag Team Champions The Headbangers

√ Ex-WWE and NJPW star Luke Gallows vs. TNA's "Special Agent Zero" Bill Collier

√ ESW Heavyweight Champion Gregory Iron vs. NWA's Spencer Slade

√ ESW Interstate Champion Chris Cooper vs. "Red Hot" Vinnie Moon

√ Former NXT star Leon Ruff vs. Cheech

√ High Seas vs. Witch Doctor & a mystery partner

√ "The Native Wolf" Groff vs. Brennan The First

Fans are encouraged to secure their tickets in advance at ESWTIX.com. Further updates regarding the match card can be found on Empire State Wrestling’s official social media channels, including the official Facebook event page. Card subject to change.

√ Competition kicks off Tuesday, Sept. 15

Disney Entertainment Television press release

“Dancing with the Stars” returns for season 35. Co-hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough, with Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough at the judges’ desk, the ballroom welcomes 16 new celebrities ready to take the floor for their first live performances.

Season 35 premieres Tuesday, Sept. 15, and continues Wednesday, Sept. 16 (8-10:03 p.m. EDT), simulcast live across both ABC and Disney+ in local time zones and next day on Hulu. The show is produced in front of a live audience by BBC Studios.

In a special two-night premiere, the male celebrities will take the ballroom floor on “Premiere: Night One,” each performing to a No. 1 song from the year they were born, with one male celebrity eliminated at the end of the night. On “Premiere: Night Two,” the female celebrities will make their competition debut, performing to a No. 1 song from the year they were born, with one female celebrity eliminated at the end of the night.

The couples (along with their dance styles and songs) are the following:

•Tatyana Ali with partner Jan Ravnik will perform a jive to “Knock on Wood” by Amii Stewart

•Tyler Cameron with partner Sharna Burgess will perform a tango to “Are You Gonna Go My Way” by Lenny Kravitz

•Giada De Laurentiis with partner Alan Bersten will perform a tango to “Venus” by Shocking Blue

•Jenna Dewan with partner Val Chmerkovskiy will perform a tango to “Call Me” by Blondie

•Ezra Frech with partner Daniella Karagach will perform a tango to “Since U Been Gone” by Kelly Clarkson

•Amber Glenn with partner Pasha Pashkov will perform a cha cha to “Smooth” by Santana ft. Rob Thomas

•Taylor Hanson with partner Britt Stewart will perform a quickstep to “Tell Her About It” by Billy Joel

•Maura Higgins with partner Mark Ballas will perform a foxtrot to “Black Velvet” by Alannah Myles

•Conner Leavitt with partner Adele Zaikman will perform a salsa to “Whoomp! There It Is” by Tag Team

•Ciara Miller with partner Brandon Armstrong will perform a foxtrot to “Exhale (Shoop Shoop)” by Whitney Houston

•Sarah Jane Nader with partner Hailey Bills will perform a jive to “Sk8er Boi” by Avril Lavigne

•Jackson Olson with partner Emma Slater will perform a cha cha to “Wannabe” by Spice Girls

•Guillermo Rodriguez with partner Witney Carson will perform a cha cha to “Mr. Big Stuff” by Jean Knight

•Harry Shum Jr. with partner Jenna Johnson will perform a cha cha to “Let’s Groove” by Earth, Wind & Fire

•Julia Stiles with partner Ezra Sosa will perform a quickstep to “9 to 5” by Dolly Parton

•Connor Wood with partner Rylee Arnold will perform a cha cha to “I Like It, I Love It” by Tim McGraw

For the two-night season premiere event, each couple will compete in only one of the two episodes. Voting for each of those episodes will be open only for the couples who are competing in their respective episode: male celebrities on Tuesday and female celebrities on Wednesday. Fans will be able to vote during the live simulcast of the show in the EDT/CDT time zones. During this time, online voting will be available to fans in any time zone in the U.S., its territories and Canada via dwtsvote.abc.com, and fans on participating U.S. wireless carriers can also vote via SMS/text (fans in Canada cannot vote via SMS/text). Live viewer votes from each night will be combined with the judges’ scores each night to determine who may be in jeopardy of elimination on their respective night of competition.

“Dancing with the Stars” is the hit series co-hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough in which celebrities are paired with trained ballroom dancers to compete in themed choreographed dance routines that are judged by a panel of renowned ballroom experts, including Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough.

The New York State Department of Transportation is advising motorists that Interstate 290 (Youngmann Memorial Highway) eastbound in the Town of Tonawanda, between the Colvin Avenue (Route 425) exit and the Niagara Falls Boulevard (Route 62) exit, will be reduced from three lanes to one from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, to facilitate bridge repairs. Drivers should expect delays and consider alternate routes when possible.

Closure of Scajaquada Expressway off-ramp to Elmwood Avenue in Buffalo

NYSDOT is advising motorists the Scajaquada Expressway (Route 198) westbound off-ramp to Elmwood Avenue in the City of Buffalo will be closed from 9 a.m. until approximately 3 p.m. Monday, September 14, to facilitate paving. Drivers should expect delays and follow the posted detour utilizing the Grant Street off-ramp.

Construction activities are weather-dependent and subject to change based on conditions.

More about NYSDOT: It is the mission of NYSDOT to provide a safe, reliable, equitable and resilient transportation system that connects communities, enhances quality of life, protects the environment, and supports the economic well-being of New York state.

Lives are on the line; slow down and move over for highway workers!

For more information, find NYSDOT on Facebook, follow on X or Instagram, or visit its website. For up-to-date travel information, call 511, visit www.511NY.org or download the free 511NY mobile app.

Head of Marketing and Membership, Castellani Art Museum of Niagara University

There is a difference between learning how a museum works and being trusted to help one work.

This fall, students in Niagara University’s art history with museum studies program will have the opportunity to experience that difference firsthand at the Castellani Art Museum (CAM).

They won’t simply study museums from a textbook or visit one for an afternoon. Through a renewed museum internship program, students will step behind the scenes and participate in the work required to operate a professional art museum – from collections and exhibitions to programming, communications and visitor experience. The internship requires 120 hours of professional experience and is intentionally designed to connect what students learn in the classroom with meaningful work in the field.

For students interested in museums, nonprofits, arts administration, and the humanities – that distinction matters. Experiential learning gives students an opportunity to apply their knowledge in a professional setting, work collaboratively, and begin imagining where their education could take them after graduation. Those are among the explicit goals of Niagara University’s museum internship course.

“The Castellani Art Museum is essential to our art history and museum studies program,” said Amelia Gallagher, professor in the department of religious studies and director of the art history with museum studies program. “Students get the opportunity to work extensively with both the staff and collection at the museum – to see first-hand how a museum actually functions. During a time when many universities and colleges are short-sightedly cutting their arts and humanities programs, the Castellani remains an anchor for the humanities at Niagara University.”

But lately, we’ve been asking ourselves another question at CAM: What happens when we invite hundreds of educators to take their expertise beyond the classroom and into the museum?

That question is helping shape the next phase of public programming at CAM.

Beginning this academic year, CAM is opening its programming calendar more intentionally to faculty from across Niagara University, inviting educators to propose public programs rooted in their areas of expertise.

And that expertise extends far beyond art history.

Niagara University’s faculty represent the humanities, sciences, business, education, health-related fields, and many other disciplines. We see an opportunity to connect that tremendous academic resource with people beyond the university.

“The Castellani Art Museum has long been integral to the educational experiences of our students,” said Dr. Jamie Carr, associate provost at Niagara University. “Over the years, faculty from across a variety of disciplines – from the humanities to the sciences to business classes – have found ways to connect course material to art. Faculty- and student-curated exhibitions, lectures, and other contributions to public programming highlight just a few of the ways the museum is an extension of the classroom.”

Our new faculty programming model builds upon that history while creating a more intentional pathway for participation.

Faculty whose proposals are selected will serve as the content experts and lead their programs, while CAM provides the infrastructure necessary to bring those ideas to a public audience. Our team will help connect proposals with exhibitions and the museum’s mission, coordinate logistics and registration, develop marketing and media outreach, and provide support before and during each program.

In other words, we’re asking educators to bring us their knowledge and ideas. We’ll help build the bridge between that expertise, the museum, and the public.

The result could expand what someone expects to encounter when walking into an art museum.

A work of art can lead to a conversation about history. An exhibition can become an entry point into environmental science, religion, literature, technology or culture. A question raised in a university classroom can become a conversation shared with neighbors from across Niagara County.

“By inviting faculty from across Niagara University to share their knowledge through public programming, CAM becomes a dynamic extension of the classroom – creating meaningful opportunities for students and the broader community to learn, connect and explore new ideas together,” said Michael Beam, interim director and curator of exhibitions at CAM.

That last part is important.

While CAM is located on Niagara University’s campus, the museum is not only for the university. Admission is accessible, and our exhibitions, many public programs and resources are here for the broader Western New York community to experience.

Our location gives us an extraordinary opportunity to serve as a meeting point between a university and the region around it.

Students learn by doing. Faculty can take their expertise beyond their classrooms. Visitors can encounter ideas and perspectives they might not otherwise have access to. And the museum can provide the space where all three come together.

We don’t simply want CAM to be the art museum located at Niagara University.

We want being located at Niagara University to fundamentally shape what kind of art museum CAM can be.

Because perhaps the most interesting classroom on a college campus is the one without desks – and with its doors open to everyone.

More about the Castellani Art Museum: With learning and public access at the heart of its mission, CAM is the premiere resource for the visual arts in Niagara County. The museum’s permanent collection includes over 5,000 pieces of modern and contemporary art, Niagara Falls art, and regional folk arts. CAM is committed to the preservation of these artworks, along with offering exhibitions and programs that serve the campus, local communities, and tourists.

For more information on the CAM, visit castellaniartmuseum.org, and follow CAM’s Facebook page, X @CAM_of_NU and Instagram @CastellaniArtMuseum.

The Town of Grand Island, in partnership with Erie County’s Plate to Field program, is pleased to announce the launch of a food scrap collection pilot program designed to make food scrap recycling easy, convenient and free for residents. The pilot program will allow Grand Island residents to have their food scraps collected and composted by Erie County, helping divert residential food waste from landfills.

Online registration is now open. Residents can register for the program at https://tinyurl.com/GIFSCP.

Grand Island launch event – Sept. 12

The official launch of the food scrap collection pilot program will take place from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, at the Grand Island Highway Department, 1820 Whitehaven Road. Two satellite launch locations will also be available during the same hours at Tops Friendly Markets, 2140 Grand Island Blvd., and The Sandy Beach Farm Store & Bakery, 3432 Wallace Drive.

At all three locations, Grand Island residents can:

•Pick up a free countertop food scrap collection bin, while supplies last;

•Receive information about what can and cannot be composted; and

•Register for the program if they have not already done so.

After Sept. 12, residents who register online may pick up a free food scrap collection bin at the Grand Island Highway Department weekdays from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m., while supplies last. Residents may also participate using their own suitable food scrap collection container.

How the program works

Participation is simple:

•Register for the food scrap collection pilot program.

•Collect food scraps at home using the provided countertop bin or your own container.

•Drop off your food scraps at one of the designated collection locations.

Food scraps can be dropped off at the Grand Island Highway Department, 1820 Whitehaven Road, weekdays from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m. A second drop-off location will be available at Grand Island Town Hall and will be accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“Our Highway Department is proud to support this partnership with Erie County by transporting Grand Island residents’ food scraps to the county’s composting facility each week,” Town of Grand Island Highway Superintendent Jim Sedita said. “It’s a great opportunity to provide residents with a convenient new service while working together to reduce food waste and keep valuable organic material out of landfills.”

Collected food scraps will be composted locally, including at facilities such as the Alden Correctional Facility compost facility. Compost generated through the pilot program will be used by the Erie County Parks, Recreation & Forestry Department in public parks and other public locations throughout Erie County.

For more information about Grand Island’s food scrap collection pilot program, including registration, acceptable materials, drop-off locations and instructions, and upcoming events, visit https://www.grand-island.ny.us/1529/Food-Scraps. The website will be updated regularly with program information and announcements.

What can be composted?

Residents can place a wide variety of food scraps and other approved organic materials in their collection bins, including:

√ Leftover food, cooked or uncooked

√ Dairy products and eggs

√ Meat and seafood, including bones and shells

√ Fruits and vegetables and their peels

√ Grains, including bread, pasta, rice and more

√ Coffee grounds and filters and tea bags

√ Cut flowers and herbs

√ Certified compostable pail liners

Informational sheets listing acceptable and unacceptable materials will be provided with the collection bins and will also be available on the town’s website.

Grand Island’s participation

Grand Island’s partnership with the Plate to Field program grew out of a resident’s inquiry about food scrap composting in the town. The inquiry was referred to the Grand Island Conservation Advisory Board (CAB), which formed a subcommittee to explore the feasibility of establishing a residential food scrap collection program.

The CAB’s subcommittee subsequently contacted Erie County’s Plate to Field program and today, with full support of the Town Board, is one of five municipalities to receive support from the program. The other participating municipalities are Aurora, East Aurora, Alden and Lancaster.

“We’re pleased to partner with Erie County on this pilot program and give Grand Island residents the opportunity to try food scrap collection at no cost,” Council member Jose Garcia said. “The pilot will help us divert food waste from landfills while also giving us a better understanding of how residents use the program and whether there is continued demand for residential food scrap collection in Grand Island. We hope residents will take advantage of this opportunity and participate.”

More about Plate to Field

Plate to Field is a grant-funded initiative, led by the Erie County Department of Environment & Planning in partnership with WeRadiate, to help municipalities throughout Erie County establish residential food scrap collection and drop-off programs. The initiative aims to reduce the amount of residential food waste sent to landfills and transform food scraps into nutrient-rich compost that can be returned to productive use in the community.

Through the program, Erie County and WeRadiate provide participating municipalities with assistance in developing food waste diversion programs, including community education, collection support, and food scrap collection containers for residents.

The Plate to Field initiative is funded in part through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s Climate Smart Communities Grant Program.

Additional ways residents can get involved

Participating residents can also enroll in Erie County’s soil stewards course, an educational training program focused on practical composting techniques, sustainable land management, and ways to improve local green spaces using finished compost.

Erie County Environment & Planning is also seeking local compost ambassadors to help promote the program, connect with community members, and educate residents about food scrap composting. Compost ambassadors will receive training and help spread the word about the program within their communities.

Residents interested in the soil stewards course or becoming a compost ambassador can learn more and sign up at the Plate to Field website: erie-county.framer.website.

Why compost?

Food scraps make up a significant portion of the waste sent to landfills. By separating food scraps for collection and composting, residents can help reduce the amount of organic waste sent to landfills while returning valuable nutrients to the soil.

Composting transforms food scraps into a useful resource that can improve soil health and support plant growth. Through the food scrap collection pilot program, Grand Island residents can help reduce waste and contribute to a more sustainable community.

The town encourages residents to take advantage of this free pilot program and discover how easy it can be to make food scrap collection part of their everyday routine.

Residents in the Town of Grand Island may be seeing higher taxes than previously thought if a new local law is exercised during budgeting.

At the Town of Grand Island Town Board regular business meeting on Tuesday, council members voted unanimously to schedule a public hearing on the question of overriding the tax levy limit on Grand Island. That session is 8 p.m. Monday, Sept. 21.

After the meeting, Supervisor Peter Marston said he and the board members are, “still hard at work,” on the budget but, to be safe, would present an option, through this local law, to override the levy, if needed.

“We’re still working through it; we have trimmed the budget enormously, but there’s still work to do,” he said. “So far, we’ve got it down $2.5 million, but we still got a ways to go.”

In other news

•A resident spoke to the Town Board of Grand Island regarding cameras being set up along Stanley Road, West River Road and Whitehaven Road.

The cameras are being set up on telephone poles, said the speaker, identifying himself as Dan Olivieri and a speaker for several residents in that area who worry about privacy.

“They want to know what these are for. They’re on town property, so I assume the town has something to do with it,” he said.

Council members and the supervisor said they were unaware of any cameras being put up in the town, but would get to the bottom of it.

“If Border Patrol, for example, gave permission to put monitor cameras there, there’s really not a lot we can do with it,” Marston said. “We can send a letter of disgust or disapproval, and I don’t disagree with that all, but we have never given, nor will we give, permission.

“I don’t know how those got there, but I will find out.”

•Bill Daniels, whose 13-year-old granddaughter, Leah Mayer, was killed in a traffic accident Sept. 11, 2024, near Kaegebein Elementary School, was at the Town Board meeting to ask the council members to support his efforts for a safer pathway at the intersection of South State Parkway and Broadway.

Daniels has asked the town for a light at that intersection, but a New York State Department of Transportation study showed none could be installed at that location. Now, Daniels is trying to find other ways to keep pedestrians safe.

After speaking with a sheriff who patrolled the road, Daniels is asking for a design study of the area to possibly reduce the roadway into one lane each way.

“He was at the scene two years ago when my granddaughter was killed,” Daniels said. “It was a bloody mess – I’ll leave it at that. He said, in his opinion, it’d be great if the state did what they did to West River and reduce it to one lane each way. He patrolled the town for six years, he’s got experience. But we need a resolution for a highway design study before anything can get done.”