Thousands Stolen From Buffalo Parking Meters – Dale’s Briefs

Two Buffalo city workers have been arrested and charged with stealing thousands of dollars from city parking meters. The FBI raided the homes of James Bagarozzo and Lawrence Charles where they found tens of thousands of dollars in cash and coins. They’re accused of helping themselves to money in the meters from as far back as 2003 and city officials say they may have stolen as much as $210-thousand. They’ve both been suspended from their jobs and face termination.

Wheatfield Central school officials say they’re doing a full investigation into an incident involving a school bus last week that was nearly hit by a train at a crossing on Route 31. The driver was able to back the bus off the tracks just in time, but it was such a close call that the crossing gates came down on the hood of the bus. Nobody was hurt.

The Elks lodge in North Tonawanda is just a pile of rubble now after the remains of the building were demolished. The landmark building was destroyed by fire over the weekend and it may be weeks before fire investigators make a final determination of what caused it. The building had stood at the corner of Main and Sweeney Streets for 90 years.

A long-time veteran of Erie County government has been tabbed for a top spot in the administration of incoming-County Executive Mark Poloncarz. Richard Tobe has been chosen as deputy county executive with instructions to revamp Erie County's economic development efforts.

Buffalo is receiving $15-million in federal cash to redevelop a portion of Main Street downtown. U.S. Senator Charles Schumer says it will restore vehicle traffic to a section of Main Street that is now dedicated to Metro Rail.

Looks like the Sabres will be getting some reinforcements for tonight's game against Ottawa. Defenseman Mike Weber and forwards Paul Gaustad and Patrick Kaleta fully practiced with the team yesterday and all three could be ready to go against the Senators tonight.