StenzTV

Willie Bonkerz

2012-03-11T19:32:00.002-04:00

TWSS

2012-03-11T14:55:00.002-04:00

Seen hanging on the corkboard...

2012-03-08T23:13:00.003-05:00

Jamie Holka live @ Wine on Third - Must See!

2012-02-23T23:11:00.000-05:00

Two Weeks After Season End... and I still can't get this outta my skull:

2012-02-15T22:59:00.002-05:00

Lost 80's Crooner - Reward if Found

2012-01-30T15:19:00.000-05:00

Long Lost Campaign Posters: E. Dent Lackey

2012-01-26T00:14:00.000-05:00

Ham Solo

2012-01-25T23:05:00.000-05:00

Now Available at Rent-a-Center?

2012-01-23T23:58:00.001-05:00

Oh, hell yeah I know it makes sense... it makes perfect sense! Finally, an answer to my baldness prayers!

Remember These Commercials?

2012-01-23T23:54:00.001-05:00

They used to play these in the early 1980s on WPIX (Channel 12) on the old television dial... yes, children, the televisions had dials. Uugh, I'm getting old.

The NiagaraHub @ 630 Main Street

2012-01-18T13:05:00.002-05:00

Niagara County’s future in media and communications is up and running in the form of Niagara Hub, LLC 630 Main Street across from the Main St. post office. Chris Stoianoff, Tim Schmitt, and Craig Avery have partnered up to tame the frenzy of social media, and boost the decline of traditional press in our backyard. Hoping to be akin to the barbershop in Mayberry, the Hub opens its doors for locals and tourists to talk about what’s happening. News articles, community calendars, opinion posts and features columns will fill their website with “stuff we all need” on a daily basis.

The ideas have been plentiful, and the partners look forward to building the site into a “must go to” location to start the day. “News coverage may be live and in-house, linked to other sources, and commented on, creating a truly interactive experience on items our participants are interested in,” said Avery. Tim Schmitt, former sports editor for the Niagara Gazette adds that the potential for more than just news is the true driving force for the trio. “Using our resources to network with local businesses and provide assistance for and within our own clientele will launch us in the right direction.” Chris Stoianoff, a.k.a. Stenz, owner of the Niagara Falls blog site StenzTV feels the local businesses can learn to count on the Hub to introduce them to local opportunities and partnerships. “There are so many unique businesses with great ideas out there that just haven’t been able to market their talents to the local crowd. We intend to exploit our user friendly environment to build a network of trust and production,” Stenz adds.

So check out the website, www.niagarahub.com, and stop by and say hi at 630 Main Street where we’ll see YOU at the Hub!

Check This Out at Our Library! (pun intended)

2012-01-12T11:21:00.001-05:00

Heritage Quest Online and Ancestry Library Edition will help you to
discover your unique personal history!

The Niagara Falls Public Library now offers two great databases for
genealogists and other researchers:

HeritageQuest® Online
You’ll find U.S. federal census records, family histories, published
genealogies, historical books, Revolutionary War records, Freedman’s
Bank records, and more to help you trace your American ancestors’
paths across history. Available from any computer with Internet
access. Users must log on with a Niagara Falls Public Library card.

Ancestry® Library Edition
Discover your unique family history! This resource includes billions
of records from around the world, including from U.S., U.K., and
Canadian census and vital records, immigration and passport records,
periodicals and books, photos, and more. Available for use within the
Niagara Falls Public Library and LaSalle Branch Library.

For this and other great information and resources visit the Niagara
Falls Public Library online at www.niagarafallspubliclib.org

Happy New Year 2012

2012-01-02T08:57:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year 2012 to all friends of StenzTV.com! Look for some exciting new stuff goin' on this year... stay tuned!

December 25, 2011

2011-12-25T16:46:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas Y'all. Wishing you a bright holiday and an awesome New Year 2012.

Hard Rock Cafe's New Year's Eve Guitar Drop

2011-12-15T15:18:00.000-05:00

79th Street School Field Trip to Aquarium 1984

2011-12-14T22:14:00.000-05:00

79th Street School student Brian Lee and friends stare in awe at the swimming fish while on a field trip at the Aquarium of Niagara in 1984.

Support the Boys and Girls Club

2011-12-13T09:27:00.001-05:00

Looking for holiday gifts? Support the Niagara Falls Boys and Girls Club and give the gift of A Stir in the Mist - Tastes and Traditions of Niagara Falls cookbook. It's a great cookbook for only $25 - Call 716-282-7181 to place an order!

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Oakwood Cemetery Online Store Now Open!

2011-12-13T09:16:00.002-05:00

NIAGARA FALLS, NY (Oakwood Cemetery) - Oakwood Cemetery announcing the opening of an online store to purchase items of importance to Oakwood friends and families.
"We will use the store to support the work done at Oakwood", said Pete Ames. Mr. Ames is the Secretary of the Board of Directors and Chief Researcher for the cemetery. "Some of the things we will offer include booklets previously sold only on the grounds", Ames said. "Also we offer nationally published books that include our residents. Eventually we would like to offer our genealolgy lookups online, but this is a good start".
Right now the prices include shipping and handling to make things easier. Oakwood Cemetery is a 501 C(13) (a non for profit cemetery) so your contribution to the Preservation Fund through your purchase at the store could be tax deductible, but check with your accountant to be sure.

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DNFBA's Holiday Happy Hour

2011-12-06T14:12:00.000-05:00

Mix, Mingle and be Merry!

The Downtown Niagara Falls Business Association welcomes you to their holiday happy hour on December 15th from 6pm-8pm at the Conference Center Niagara Falls in the Cataract Room. The Cataract Room is adjacent to Old Falls Street, so it is perfect for visiting the Niagara Holiday Market as well! If attending, please RSVP to nfhistory@gmail.com.

StenzTV.com's Annual Christmas Party

2011-12-05T13:13:00.001-05:00

Alright Ladies & Germs - it's official. The annual Christmas Party will be at The Bakery (3004 Niagara Street - Corner of 30th) Niagara Falls, USA at 8pm on Saturday, December 17th. Bring a friend or two and come share some laughs and drinks with friends old and new. If you are reading this post, then you are invited! Thank you for your StenzTV.com patronage throughout 2011... looking forward to a fun and successful 2012.

Travel Back in Time via the iWitnessNiagara Blog!

2011-12-05T13:01:00.002-05:00

Catherina Shoes at 1825 Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls New York. Circa 1908. See more great photos like this from the Niagara Falls Public Library's Local History Department on the Local History Department's Blog - iWitnessNiagara! Visit: www.iwitnessniagara.com

A Visit to the Wax Museum at Niagara

2011-12-05T12:47:00.004-05:00

[StenzTV.com welcomes our guest blogger Alicia Laible. Be on the lookout for her new blog starting soon: The Ally Way... Through Niagara]

A Visit to the Wax Museum at Niagara

Hi my name is Alicia (you can call me Ally) and recently I set out with my good friend Chris to check out the Holiday Market.

As it was our goal, this should have been an article about fancy Jewelry, delicious smelling soap, mouth watering pulled pork, a hearty crowd and the future Brian Boitano. However, it is not and that will be a story for another day.

Our mission was derailed when we decided that before our work could begin we needed a quick stop to the Hard Rock Cafe for some witches’ brew. This turned into a two-hour ontological discussion of modern man’s existential dilemma, where we emerged forever changed for the better. We also emerged a little silly and decided that the market would have to wait because we had a date with The Wax Museum at Niagara.

Before I begin to describe our experience, I’ll allow the good users of Yahoo Travel to share their thoughts, both the good, the bad, and the ALL CAPS romantic.

“Princess Diana looked like a man wearing a dress.”

“The "Wax" people looked more like store manequins [sic] with bad wigs. Princess Diana looked like Hulk Hogan. Totally ridiculous.”

“This museum is outstandingly great!! The real life is very well represented by sculptures, the ambiance is cool but what I liked the most is still the sculptures.”

“I LOVE THIS PLACE AD I WOULD LOVE TO TAKE MIKALA WITH ME ONE DAY. I LOVE YOU BABY!!!”(lucky Mikala…)

(http://travel.yahoo.com/p-travelguide-2737714-niagara_wax_museum_of_history_niagara_falls-i)

Our wax museum adventure began with a hand written sign that read “No refunds”. I must admit that after seeing this, I didn’t think our experience would bode well. Especially, since this sign was located at the entrance of the museum and not where we bought the tickets… a bit late on the warning guys. Also just a tip, but shouldn’t the first sign you read upon entering say “welcome” or “Enjoy” not a synonym for “You’re going to regret this”.

Walking in, we found ourselves greeted by life size “wax” figures showing us the early history of Niagara Falls “settlers” and Natives of the area. No surprise there, as the brochure boasted as much. Some were interesting and well done, others evoked emotions of fear and confusion. It was a visual history that should have aroused feelings of pride and hope in our community.It was a visual history tour that began with Garth… or Timothy Treadwell… I’m not quite sure which one.

I am glad however that they gave credit to the first founders/residents/owners of the area, the Iroquois of 1700. Seen here is a traditional long-house, home to members of the Five-Nations.

Most “tourist trap” attractions give the bare minimum. Just enough to get you in and out the door without causing too much fuss over demanded refunds. This exhibit however was fairly well constructed and gave a small glimpse into a world that thankfully I will never know. If this guy ever over-heard me arguing about the thermostat with my “energy conscious” Mr. “we have to reduce our carbon footprint” fiancé, he would roll over in his burial ground. Personally, I think that 80 is comfortable. Can you imagine dealing with lake effect snow when the only thing between you and the elements is a thin layer of wood? I refuse to even leave the house unless I’m bundled up like the kid from A Christmas Story.

Unfortunately, for every exhibit like this, or the barber chair Abe Lincoln sat in when he visited NF (Did you know that Abe had the same Barber for 24 years? He was a Haitian-born businessman named William de Fleurville learn more about him here), you have something like this:

Why does he have a case of crazy eye?Why so much polyester?

Moving on. Here is a traditional mask used to “Drive the evil spirits out of the Bark House” I wonder if this would work in certain City Hall chambers?

Next came my favorite part of the experience – The Massacre at Devils Hole -

I enjoyed this because I can remember walking the gorge as a kid and begging my father to tell me just one more time the story of the massacre (that makes me sound like a strange child). I was fascinated with the idea that the very place I stood marked an incident so profound in our history. I was shocked, appalled and compelled to know more about the boy who had to jump off the cliff ledge where he was headed for certain doom but pulled through in the end by landing in a tree. He was one of only three survivors. (Click here to learn more about the massacre. However, they tell the story a little different than my dad. I trust my dad’s version is correct. He is smarter than your dad.)

Speaking of which, here he is circa 1970. So strange they would have a wax statue of him. Also, for the record, that paint (blood?) on the black wall only appeared after I took the picture and wasn’t visible to the naked eye. It’s also located next to the replica of the famous Fort Niagara haunted well. Can a replica be haunted too??

If haunted wells don’t scare you then go stand alone with this guy for a while. You are looking into the face of pure evil here my friend. He shakes in an unnatural way too just to add to the fun.

To conclude our date with the museum we took the quintessential Niagara Falls tourist picture:

My goals for Niagara Falls remain to keep moving forward, keep positive (for those who remember me from my billboards) and when necessary give gentle guidance where I see fit. The good? Chris and I had a fantastic time for a total of $14. We laughed, we cried, we got super creeped-out by mother Theresa.

The bad? The Museum could use a bit of a face lift… and a good dusting. The brochure claims that it is “Niagara’s Oldest Wax Museum” but that doesn’t mean you need the original 1970 dust as proof. I’m also pretty sure that some of the hairpieces were from my Great Uncle Jim’s “rug” collection. Speaking of questionable hair, the Mark Twain statue looks like he just caught sight of the impossible, like a ghost… or NFR breaking ground.

And for anyone curious if the Princess Diana actually looked like a man wearing a dress, you can be the judge of that for yourself. Personally, I think she looks more like David Spade than the People’s Princess.

In conclusion, I recommend you visit the Museum and keep an open mind. It’s no Cawker City Worlds Largest Ball of Twine but it is equally as Kitschy and you are guaranteed a few laughs… plus you might actually learn something new!

For more information visit the Wax Museum at Niagara301 Prospect St, Niagara Falls, NY 14305 or call 716.285.1271

[The opinions expressed on any guest blogger's posts do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of StenzTV.com.]

Spend Your $ With The Locals!

2011-11-25T16:40:00.001-05:00

HardRock's Upcoming Events

2011-11-22T22:13:00.004-05:00

CELEBRATE THANKSGIVING EVE FEATURING
♪ DODRIVER ♪
With Special Guests:
CONTAGIOUS WOO
8:00 PM
WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 23rd 2011
A *FREE* Hard Rock Café Event!
333 Prospect Street
Niagara Falls, NY

Join us on December 2nd for
Free Music Friday Featuring
BROTHER 2 BROTHER
8:00 PM

LaSalle Senior High School Explorers Shirts

2011-11-21T19:18:00.006-05:00

Hey Everyone! The sweatshirts and tshirts are in. They are nice - good quality and they look awesome. Much credit to Mike from CrazeePromos Central (they sell shirts, hats, mugs, etc - all things promotional) for getting me everything quick and for steering me in the right directions. My original plan was to make a shirt that not only I'd like to wear, but also could give a few to people on my shopping list as Christmas presents... then I thought, shit, I'll order a bunch and let everyone join in on the Explorer pride! From this order, I'll donate a portion to the Local History Department - and then whatever is left, I'll have enough to buy myself a case of beer during the holidays! Ho ho ho! The shirts are: tees - $20.00 (XXL $22.00) and sweatshirts - $30.00 (XXL $35.00). Would make a great gift, no doubt!

So, to make it easier on me from the selling/picking up point of things, anyone that wants one can go into CrazeePromo Central - the little store on the corner of Pine and Hyde Park Blvd next to DeFranco Hardware - and pick them up. Mike is doing me this favor. You can use cash or credit there like you're buying them from the store - If you requested one from me specifically on Facebook or by email, then you'll have what you asked for waiting for you when you get there - if there are any left and you want another, then go nuts! Stuff those stockings! When they run out, maybe if there is a demand, we can order another round.

And please remember, I'm not a friggin' tshirt salesman - so be sure to always be in a merry, festive mood when shopping with StenzTV.com! hahahaha. I ordered 30 tees and 30 sweatshirts - get 'em while their hot!

CRAZEEPROMO CENTRAL's hours are:
Mon - Fri 12-5pm
Thurs 12-7pm
Sat 10 - 2pm
Sunday Closed

Contact # 716 -507-8722

Easiest to park at DeFranco's at walk over... his shop is attached to DeFranco's Hardware (on Pine). Then maybe go across the street for a Tim Horton's coffee or next door for a pizza at LaHacienda's, or a couple doors down for some tasty beans n' greens at Michael's. Happy Holidays!

Then and Now Slideshow - Rock n' Roll

2011-11-17T17:07:00.004-05:00

Check out this awesome slideshow. Some have lived HARD... others you can see that they have maintained a healthy lifestyle. I wouldn't have ever known that Keith Richards was him in the younger photo. Wow.

http://www.nbcsandiego.com/entertainment/music/NATLRock-Stars-Then-and-Now-97329329.html

Holiday Lights of Niagara Trail

2011-11-16T16:53:00.001-05:00

Niagara Falls Holiday Lights Trail Opening Ceremony to be Held at Sal Maglie Stadium Wednesday, November 23^rd

The annual opening ceremony for the Niagara Falls Holiday Lights Trail will be held in the parking lot at Sal Maglie Stadium, Wednesday November 23^rd with entertainment starting at 5:00 pm, official ceremony at 6:00 pm and fireworks at 6:15 pm.

This year’s ceremony will feature Joe Chille from 96.1 FM WJYE as Master of Ceremonies, a visit from Santa Claus, Billy Buffalo from the Buffalo Bills, “Tripp” from Niagara County Community College and the Purple Eagle from Niagara University. Dignataries and community leaders will be hand from the United Way, City of Niagara Falls, the NF Board of Education and Niagara County to join in the festivities.

Entertainment will begin at 5:00 pm by the Step In Time Dance Studio, The Harry Abate School Chorus and the Niagara Falls High School Jazz Chorus. Santa Claus will arrive at 5:30 pm to meet the children. The official program begins at 6:00 pm and the countdown to the fireworks display will take place at approximately 6:15 pm.

Since its inception the lights have raised over $120,000 new dollars for the United Way. Over $60,000 went back into the community to expand funding to different programs in the community and the remainder into new LED replacement lights. The City of Niagara Falls is the main sponsor of the Holiday Lights of Niagara Trail providing manpower and dollars to help keep the lights shining bright.

This year there will be over 50 displays in Hyde Park with another 10 placed on Pine Avenue, Main Street and down Third Avenue to the new Holiday Market. Businesses are also encouraged to decorate their store front in order to make the City of Niagara Falls a holiday destination for families to enjoy.

Go to www.hlntrail.com and visit facebook at www.facebook.com/pages/Holiday-Lights-of-Niagara-Falls.

Bob Koshinski

Chairman HLNT Opening Ceremony Committee

Lady Thwarts Home Robbery

2011-11-16T15:57:00.001-05:00

Speaking of Mayors... E. Dent Lackey

2011-11-10T15:09:00.003-05:00

E. Dent Lackey, mayor of Niagara Falls from 1963 to 1975. Mayor Lackey, an outgoing, ebullient man, was elected on a campaign that called for urban renewal, the re-establishment of the city as a tourism capital, and industrial expansion. Under Lackey's administration, the city actually... (click here to read rest of story)

Niagara Holiday Market Vendor Stations

2011-11-05T16:17:00.008-04:00

A "flurry of activity" at Cortese Construction Services as workers are underway with the building of vending stations for The Niagara Holiday Market.

From their website:

The largest European-style holiday market and festival in America. With 37 days of operation and thousands expected to attend, this is a must-see event attraction with super-regional draw.

Featuring the best in holiday shopping, from national retailers to local boutiques, showing their unique artisans, crafts, gift, apparel, and specialty foods and 20+ extraordinary events and special experiences in a family-friendly environment, including a Tree Lighting Ceremony, Ice Rink, Santa’s Workshop, Tournament of Song, and Holiday Concert Series featuring The Canadian Tenors, Elizabeth Von Trapp, Aaron Neville, Buffalo Philharmonic, and more to be announced shortly.

The Market will officially open on Friday, November 25 at 12pm (Black Friday) and run for 37 days thru New Year’s Day, Sunday, January 1, 2012. The Market will be closed Christmas Day.

Hours are 11am to 7pm, Sunday thru Thursdays and open until 8pm on Friday and Saturday evenings. The vendor row of merchants will operate along 3 blocks of Old Falls Street, from 3rd Street (near the Seneca Niagara Casino) to the main entry of the State Park.

With Santa's elves hard at work, it must mean that the holiday season is creeping up upon us. Let's hope that the streets are hustlin' and bustlin' during the most wonderful tiiiiime, I'm talking the most wooooonderful tiiime... of the yeeeeeaaaar!

(Click on each image for larger photo)

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Crazy Insane Pumpkin' Carving Skills

2011-10-28T22:50:00.001-04:00

Last weekend, The New York Botanical Garden brought on master food sculptor Ray Villafane to carve zombies out of two giant pumpkins, one of which was the world’s heaviest pumpkin... CLICK HERE FOR FULL ARTICLE

A Closer Look at Your Candidates

2011-10-28T11:27:00.001-04:00

We recently reached out and invited all five of the upcoming Niagara Falls election candidates (Mayor Dyster, Johnny Destino, Robert Anderson, Alicia Laible, and Glen Choolokian) to sit down for a brief, informal interview for StenzTV.com.

The following interviews were held this past week in the StenzTV.com office and each candidate (those that could find the time in their busy schedules) were asked the same questions and had as little or as much time as they wanted to answer... Please click here for interviews!

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Ticket giveaway: Misstallica coming to Hard Rock Cafe

2011-10-27T13:49:00.001-04:00

They've been featured in High Times, among other spots, and claim to be the world’s only all-female tribute to Metallica.

Now they're coming to Niagara Falls' Hard Rock Cafe. And you have a chance to join them.

Thanks to our friends at StenzTV.com, BelowTheFalls.com will draw three lucky winners for a pair of tickets to Friday night's show. To win, simply send us an email to newsroom@belowthefalls.com with the subject line Misstallica and make sure to include a phone number. We'll draw three sets of winners on Friday by noon and inform the lucky winners.

The focuses mainly on Metallica’s 1980s work, including “Kill ‘Em All,” “Ride The Lightning,” “Master of Puppets” and “...And Justice For All.”

The band members — Gigi Gleason, Lauren Tsipori, Teddi Tarnoff and Kaleen Reading — have coined R-rated stage names that stem from the names of Metallica members.

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In Memoriam - Melvin Johnson

2011-10-26T12:08:00.003-04:00

He was a hot dog vendor outside of city hall. That's what Melvin Johnson did for a living. But when you chatted with him under his umbrella, you felt that his soul sheltered yours and that his heart was even warmer than the grill upon which he prepared your meal. He made a difference in people's lives; so much so, that this simple hot dog vendor had one of the largest funerals in the city.

But that is not how I measure his impact upon the city. I have to measure his impact upon me. His was the first funeral in years where my emotions flooded from my heart and cascaded from my eyes in the form of tears.

We trusted each other, and from time to time he would shove money into my hand and ask me to go get change for him. I argued before city council on his behalf. And yet, about the only time that Melvin and I would actually chat would be after I passed Dairy Queen, Burger King, Arby's and McDonald's to stop at his hot dog to support my friend, Melvin Johnson.

Melvin was a good man. And when the spring comes, the skies are blue and the crocuses are breaking through the sparse snow-covering on the ground, you might catch a wisp of the smell of a hotdog or sausage roasting and not know from where it comes. Look up, my friend; look up. If there is a cloud passing overhead, check to see if there is a tiny umbrella there and a smile as warm as the sun itself flowing from its crest and say hello to Melvin for me.

By Ken Hamilton

Comedy Hall of Fame

2011-10-24T11:23:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone,

Please read the attached petition below... We are trying to expedite the approvals necessary to bring the National Comedy Hall of Fame to Niagara Falls, NY. I can use everyone's help by signing the petition included with the link below and then forwarding this email to everyone you know. This project will bring untold numbers of visitors, jobs and development dollars to Niagara Falls. Please help us make it happen here as we are in an intense competition with the cities of Boston, MA and Louisville, KY who want the CHOF to locate there. Thank you for your help.

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/nchof-niafalls/

John Hutchins
Hutch Enterprises Inc.
7510 Porter Road
Niagara Falls, NY 14304
716 297 8401

(Corny) Local History Humor

2011-10-20T16:44:00.002-04:00

Bike Safety Rodeo on Goat Island - June 11, 1986

2011-10-20T11:43:00.007-04:00

(Click Photo for Larger Image)

(From Niagara Gazette 6/11/86) Billy Rodgers, 12, gingerly pedals his way through one of the obstacles set up during the Bicycle Safety Rodeo Tuesday at Goat Island. He was one of several youngsters testing their bicycle skills during the annual event, which is sponsored by the Police Athletic League and the Niagara Frontier State Park Commission.

Sneak Peek at Tomorrow's Ghost Hunters on SyFy from the Rapids Theatre!

2011-10-18T17:00:00.001-04:00

Cobler Funeral Home & Jefferson Apartment Ads January 5, 1929

2011-10-11T23:37:00.003-04:00

(click image for larger version)

A section of advertising in the Niagara Gazette - Saturday, January 5, 1929. This address for Cobler's is where the current Williamson Funeral Home is located. The Cobler's lived across the street at 640 Park Place.

The Jefferson is a historic building that still is as magnificent as ever... well, except for the fact that the rates are a wee bit higher these days.

Lots Going On This Month at The Hard Rock Cafe!

2011-10-11T19:24:00.006-04:00

(click images for full sized announcement!)

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Spend a Few Bucks!

2011-10-07T15:54:00.002-04:00

Lewis sells Steelhead

2011-10-07T00:57:00.003-04:00

(From BelowTheFalls.com)

Jim Lewis has built a solid customer base at the Steelhead Irish Pub on Center Street. But Lewis said he's ready to hang up his apron, and announced on Wednesday he's selling the business.

"I've been here a while," Lewis said. "I think it's the greatest place to come and have a drink. But I'm ready to step down, give someone else a try."

Lewis said he's selling to a group headed by local businessman Al Muto, who might convert the restaurant to a new motif with the help of a new chef. There had been rumors that Lewis might turn the establishment into a steakhouse, or another style restaurant, but Lewis had also previously said he was interested if a seller surfaced.

"The group that's taking over, they'll do great," Lewis said. "There going to give this place the kick that it might need."

[by Tim Schmitt]

Great Gorge Route

2011-10-07T00:47:00.004-04:00

(Click on photo for larger image)

Beginning operation in July 1895, the Great Gorge Route would carry 13 million tourists, pleasure-seeking locals, leaders of nations, royalty, and celebrities during the next forty years... for full article on iWitnessNiagara.com - click here!

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On the Corner of Main and 3rd Street...

2011-10-07T00:07:00.004-04:00

I'm gonna take a wild guess and say that these glass windows and door are a tad drafty? Just a guess...

Come on, seriously.

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Dan Ackroyd's Visit to Supermarket Liquors

2011-10-06T23:40:00.006-04:00

Celebrate PINKTOBER

2011-10-06T23:23:00.001-04:00

(Click for larger image)

Benefiting the American and Canadian Cancer Societies.

Sponsored by Old Falls Street, Kiss 98.5, Seneca Niagara Casino, Channel 2, Buffalo Backstage, and the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission.

Gear up for the 2^nd annual

International Living Ribbon Event!

Followed by a FREE LIVE PERFORMANCE BY

STEVEN PAGE

(Formerly of the Barenaked Ladies)

Special Guests:

Alison Pipitone

K-Ride

This Saturday, October 8^th!!!

Living Ribbon Event = 7PM

Free Concert begins at 8 PM

5:30 PM Registration on Old Falls Street, adjacent to Hard Rock Café.

The first 100 to register will receive front access to the stage for the concert!

You do not have to register to enjoy the free concert!

See you on Old Falls Street!

Also – enjoy Hard Rock Café’s 40^th Anniversary Memorabilia Bus with some of the most popular items in Hard Rock’s collection! FREE!

All I Got Was a Rock...

2011-10-06T20:39:00.005-04:00

Click here for more info on this poster!

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Football Challenge - StenzTV.com vs. BelowTheFalls.com

2011-10-06T19:07:00.007-04:00

Below The Falls says: So much for this home-field advantage. The idea of this Over/Under Football Challenge was one team — either us here at BelowTheFalls.com, or the bad guys up the escarpment at StenzTV.com — would have an edge by seeing the other guy's picks and pouncing on mistakes.

For the third straight week, the logic failed, as the team that picked first — this time StenzTV.com — got the victory. This time, he did so with a Heisman pose and us laying in the dust. Stenz's record was 10-6 on the week, while ours was 6-10.

Let the streak of road dogs continue.

Last week's results: StenzTV.com 10-6, BelowTheFalls.com 6-10

Overall results: StenzTV.com leads 2-1

Eagles (-2.5) at Bills

BelowTheFalls.com says: EAGLES — Boy, oh boy, I sure looked like a schmuck for picking the Bengals last week, and I might look like one this week, too. Philadelphia's due for a big game, and the Bills defense certainly likes to get opposing offenses feeling good about themselves.
StenzTV.com says: BILLS. I'm going to the game... so why not cheer along with the home crowd as I glance to the scoreboard every few minutes to hopefully see my beloved Patriots pound on the Jets. Oh yeah, and I think the Bills are ready to get back to the flow they started with after that suck-filled fiasco in Cincy.

Titans at Steelers (-3.5)

BelowTheFalls.com says: STEELERS — Tough to pick against Matt Hasselbeck, but Pittsburgh signed former lineman Max Starks and hopefully, he can solidify an O-line that's due for a better game.
StenzTV.com says: The slide continues for the Steelers. Titans continue to astound. TITANS

Chiefs at Colts (-2)

BelowTheFalls.com says: COLTS — You get the feeling that even though they lost, the Colts got their feet under themselves a little in last week's game against Tampa Bay. Pierre Garcon caught fire, and if Dallas Clark makes some plays, Indy finally gets a win.
StenzTV.com says: Wow, this one is really bad... I'll go with the CHIEFS on this one just because I think that they are a more together team (believe it or not).

Cardinals at Vikings (-2.5)

BelowTheFalls.com says: CARDINALS — Everybody likes to pile on the Cardinals, but they really should be 3-1 instead of 1-3. They had no right losing to the Giants last week and shouldn't have lost to the Redskins back in Week 2. Kevin Kolb isn't that bad — and Beanie Wells is having a decent season.
StenzTV.com says: CARDINALS - I like to usually go with McNabb because I just can't fathom that the Vikings are really that awful... but guess what!? They are!

Raiders at Texans (-6)

BelowTheFalls.com says: TEXANS — Are the Texans finally for real? Maybe so. They've got Arian Forster back and rockin' and Ben Tate's as good a backup as there is.
StenzTV.com says: Let's go with the TEXANS... On this one, I will have to agree with the wimps Below The Falls (haha)!

Saints (-6.5) at Panthers

BelowTheFalls.com says: PANTHERS — We love what Cam Newton's doing, but what's even more impressive is Steve Smith's renaissance. Man, we wish we would've taken him in the late rounds of our fantasy draft.
StenzTV.com says: SAINTS - I think they will hang in there or get close here and there, but the SAINTS are simply better as a team and they are groovin'.

Bengals at Jaguars (-1.5)

BelowTheFalls.com says: JAGUARS — This pick is based solely on the fact that Cincinnati is not as good as its win last week. 'Nuff said. Line's too high.
StenzTV.com says: BENGALS - the Red Rifle seems to be pretty good, even on such a mess of a team... I think he'll have a good day.

Seahawks at Giants (-9.5)

BelowTheFalls.com says: SEAHAWKS — Seattle played the Falcons tight a week, and we're calling this a trap game for the Giants.
StenzTV.com says: I can't believe I'm agreeing with this pick... but I'll take the SEAHAWKS with the points. Garbage team, but even a garbage can gets a steak every so often.

Buccaneers at Niners (-2.5)

BelowTheFalls.com says: NINERS — We're buying on the Jim Harbaugh Kool-Aid. The Niners are playing solid football, and Michael Crabtree will continue to evolve. Seriously. If he's available in your fantasy league, pick him up and put him on your bench.
StenzTV.com says: This one will be close.. these teams are evenly matched and what normally would be a must-not-watch game actually may be exciting... TAMPA BAY will pull it off.

Jets at Patriots (-9)

BelowTheFalls.com says: PATRIOTS — Tom Terrific continues to show he's worthy of MVP status, and the Jets are proving they're more hype than substance. Belichick remembers the playoffs, too.
StenzTV.com says: I want Robert Kraft to adopt me. THE NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

Chargers (-4) at Broncos

BelowTheFalls.com says: BRONCOS —Eric Decker's a player, and Kyle Orton's not that bad. We think the Broncos cover late in a shootout.
StenzTV.com says: CHARGERS - Too much offensive thrust for the Broncos to handle... the Broncos are the pits.

Packers (-6) at Falcons

BelowTheFalls.com says: FALCONS — They squeaked one out against the Seahawks, and they need this one to stay in the thick of the division race. We like the Falcons to pull off the upset outright.
StenzTV.com says: PACKERS continue to steamroll. They cannot be stopped... yet, anyway. The Falcons aren't as good as they SHOULD be.

Bears at Lions (-5.5)

BelowTheFalls.com says: BEARS — Lions are due for a letdown, and it might come at home on a Monday night. Matt Forte's been really good so far, and Devin Hester's always good for a big play.
StenzTV.com says: BEARS - the points are making me pick them... but I really do like the Lions to win this one by a point or two (without the spread). They are really a decent team this year... right? No?

One of the Greatest Inventions in the History of Mankind

2011-10-06T12:11:00.002-04:00

The Wake n’ Bacon is an alarm clock that wakes you up with the smell of cooking bacon instead of a buzzer. Move over Thomas Edison, you've just been one up'd!

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How Does it Work?

2011-10-04T14:17:00.003-04:00

Those cameras that you see during sporting events... Click image for larger version!

http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2005/01/05/technology/06howw.graphic.jpg

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That's why we have BANKS

2011-09-29T13:14:00.002-04:00

PORTER — A town woman called police about 1:30 a.m. Wednesday to report a possible burglary in progress.

When Niagara County Sheriff’s deputies arrived, the woman said she heard a noise outside and saw a man running from the garage in her backyard.

Read full story here:
$40,000 gone from bag in garage in Porter

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Blondin and other Daredevils of Niagara Falls

2011-09-28T16:28:00.002-04:00

Blondin (Jean Francois Gravelet) was a French tight-rope walker who shimmied his way across the Falls in 1859. At 160 feet above the water (some reports say 190 feet), Gravelet walked 1100 feet from one side to the other. It took him 17 and a half minutes. And he wasn’t content to do it just once – he did it blindfold, he did it on stilts, he did it carrying his manager on his back, he did it at night with locomotive lights shining the way and he did it carrying a table and chairs. The plan was to sit down and enjoy a piece of cake and some champagne, but when he lost the chair, he sat on the cable instead and had his snack before finishing the journey. The American people loved him and he was known as the hero of the falls, but there was at least one person who was unimpressed: Mark Twain. He referred to Blondin as “That adventurous ass.” He died of complications relating to diabetes at the age of 72.

Read the full text here: http://www.mentalfloss.com/blogs/archives/27464#ixzz1ZHTtnBEe
--brought to you by mental_floss!

The Interwebs are full of knowledge...

2011-09-28T16:17:00.004-04:00

Iconic Photos in LEGOs... I don't know why, but I was compelled to follow the link!

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Main Street Collage

2011-09-28T16:11:00.005-04:00

(Click image for large version)

Just a little collage of happenings on Main Street Niagara Falls... back page for a mailing StenzTV.com is designing for Main Street Business and Professional Association. Check your mailbox soon for details!

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Thunderbolts and Lightning... very very frightening!

2011-09-28T16:09:00.002-04:00

The New Facebook - Fact vs. Fiction

2011-09-28T15:58:00.005-04:00

(CNN) -- The recent deluge of Facebook changes -- both those that have already happened and those that are on the way -- have people talking. OK ... that's an understatement. They have people shouting (with either glee or fury). And fuming. And, sometimes, freaking out.

When a site has roughly 800 million users, and each of those users has a quick and easy way to share their thoughts with others, interest is high and info starts flying fast in the face of what looks like a pretty radical overhaul. Inevitably, that leads to things getting a bit confused sometimes. So, here's a look at some of the rumors that we've seen flying around about Facebook's big changes, along with our best effort to sort them out.

1. Facebook is going to start charging you... !?!

(to read rest of article, click here)

Football Picks Week 3 - StenzTV.com vs. BelowTheFalls.com

2011-09-22T14:17:00.001-04:00

So much for the home-field advantage. In the inaugural week of the StenzTV.com vs. BelowTheFalls.com Over/Under Football Challenge, it seemed having the last pick would help those of us here below the escarpment.

Since we knew that Sam Bradford had practiced (the home team in our series picks last), we thought we had an edge on Stenz's pick of the Giants on Monday night. When Sunday's plays were through, we were both 7-7-1 — meaning Monday night was for all the marbles. Then Cadillac Williams essentially handed Stenz the victory by admiring a lateral as if he'd bought a ticket.

No problem. We want Stenz to stay interested, so here's this week's selections, and we'll try to get out to a faster start so Monday night doesn't matter.

(Note: There's no line on the Giants-Eagles and Falcons-Buccaneers due to injuries)

Last week's results: StenzTV.com 8-7-1, BelowTheFalls.com 7-8-1

Overall results: StenzTV.com leads 1-0

Niners @ Bengals (-2):

BelowTheFalls.com says: NINERS — Calling Vernon Davis? The big tight end's been non-existent through the first two weeks of the season, and we're guessing that changes against a soft Bengals D.

StenzTV.com says: Yuck. Wake me up when this one is over... I'll go with the up and coming ginger QB over the QB who just can't get started years after all the hoopla surrounding him... The Red Rifle wins it... BENGALS

Jaguars @ Panthers (-3.5):

BelowTheFalls.com says: JAGUARS — It sure seems this line should be higher, seeing how impressive Cam Newton's been through the first two weeks. We're guessing Vegas knows something.

StenzTV.com says: The Jags are pure doo doo. The Panthers are at least hopeful and drooling over the play of Cam Newton which makes them all giddylike. I think they get the win here - PANTHERS.

Lions (-3.5) @ Vikings:

BelowTheFalls.com says: VIKINGS — The Vikes aren't great, but they could easily be 2-0 if they realized you have to come back out of the tunnel after halftime. This week, Adrian Peterson reminds them.

StenzTV.com says: I think McNabb is a good QB and I'll stick with the Vikings at home getting a few points even though the Lions seem hot (did I just really say that... the Lions? Hot? Uggh?). VIKINGS

Broncos @ Titans (-7):

BelowTheFalls.com says: TITANS — For all the talk about Matt Hasselbeck in the off-season, what really matters is that Chris Johnson is back on his game. He's not there yet. When he gets there, look out.

StenzTV.com says: Hmmm... the Broncos are the worst... put Tebow in already will ya!? TITANS.

Dolphins @ Browns (-2.5):

BelowTheFalls.com says: DOLPHINS — Had you heard of Daniel Thomas? After taking a bunch of shots from his coach during the preseason, the second-rounder had over 100 yards on the ground last week. Expect more of the same.

StenzTV.com says: The Browns at home against the lowly Fish... What can Brown do for me? Win! BROWNS

Texans @ Saints (-4):

BelowTheFalls.com says: SAINTS — This one could be a shootout. We like the Saints, largely because they play so well in the dome.

StenzTV.com says: Although I instantly think the Saints will take this one, I spent to much time deliberating about it and I switched my thought to the Texans. TEXANS. Let's see if the old saying about going with your gut will apply here.

Patriots (-9) @ Bills:

BelowTheFalls.com says: PATRIOTS — Boy, I hate to be the one to burst this bubble. I sure hope I'm wrong, but watching Leodis McKelvin and George Wilson struggle to cover guys I'd never heard of makes me think Tom Brady has slept with a smile on his face this week. Wait, he probably always does, right?

StenzTV.com says: PATRIOTS. In a Hall of Fame inspired moment, Tom Brady's chin dimple will actually pass for 300 yards itself... bringing Brady's passing yards this game to over 500. Touchdowns galore! Some plays from the Bills to keep it close for the first half, but then the Pats will put on cruise control and start the annihilation. PATRIOTS

Chiefs @ Chargers (-14.5):

BelowTheFalls.com says: CHIEFS — Wow, this is a big line, although it's obviously appropriate for the first two showings by K.C. We think Matt Cassel has some pride. Let's hope.

StenzTV.com says: CHARGERS - can't stand Phillip Rivers and his whiny face, but after the crushing he received Sunday by Brady and the Boys, I think he'll fire this team up to whup some butt.

Ravens (-3.5) @ Rams:

BelowTheFalls.com says: RAVENS — The Rams should be desperate, watching their season slip away in the first few weeks. But Sam Bradford has nobody to throw to.

StenzTV.com says: RAVENS - Watching the Rams play Monday night was a debacle. Another loss for the Ravens, NEVERMORE.

Jets (-3.5) @ Raiders:

BelowTheFalls.com says: RAIDERS — Know what? That Jason Campbell's a gamer, and we bet that half-point comes into play. We'll take Oakland at home with the points.

StenzTV.com says: Although I would like to see the Jets lose and have the Pats stand alone at the top of the division, I gotta give it to the JETS - they are playing great and have the eye of the tiger... and the feet of Rex Ryan's wife.

Cardinals (-3.5) @ Seahawks:

BelowTheFalls.com says: CARDINALS — Give Andy Reid credit. He knows quarterbacks. Kevin Kolb's QB rating to date is 110.3.

StenzTV.com says: It would be a joke to even try to give the Seahawks even a smidge of credit regarding their football play... CARDINALS.

Packers (-3.5) @ Bears:

BelowTheFalls.com says: BEARS — This is a tough pick, but we like the Bears at Soldier Field getting more than three. And the Packers can't be this good every week.

StenzTV.com says: Can't pick against the Pack... The Bears should'a won last week and didn't, so I'll stick with the opinion that they'll foul this one up too. PACKERS.

Steelers (-11.5) @ Colts:

BelowTheFalls.com says: STEELERS — Looking for the most valuable player (to his team) in the past two decades? With Peyton Manning, the Colts are division contenders. Without him, they're double-digit underdogs at home.

StenzTV.com says: Being a New England fan, it is nice to see the Colts suck so bad. But then again, I shouldn't like the Steelers either. But they will be a football juggernaut this weekend and will pound the Colts. STEELERS. Have you ever heard of STEELY McBEAM? Google it.

Dear BelowtheFalls.com Readers,
This is where you should see a little more separation between our two squads. I apologize now for whatever goofy humiliating task your website's author will have to perform... I can see him now walking up and down Lewiston Hill in a pair of Speedos holding a sign up that says, "StenzTV.com rules ABOVE and BELOW the FALLS!" Stay tuned... we'll announce or gentleman's wager soon and give y'all something to cheer for. (Believe me, you don't want to see ME in a Speedo - in that case, EVERYONE loses!)

Do you believe in Fitzmagic?

2011-09-21T16:43:00.002-04:00

I believe in Fitzmagic... but not this week. I am a Patriots fan. But otherwise, go Fitz!

Buffalo Bills 2-0 vs. New England Patriots 2-0 !!!

2011-09-19T12:52:00.003-04:00

The Rivalry Has Begun... Over the Falls and Under the Falls...

2011-09-15T13:29:00.005-04:00

STENZTV.com vs. BELOWTHEFALLS.com

Nothing like getting a little grudge match started, and with the National Football League up and running, we decided to pick a fight with someone above the hill.

We chatted with Chris Stoianoff, city historian for Niagara Falls and the primary force behind the popular StenzTV.com, and decided a weekly pick 'em (with spreads) would be the best way to settle a bet about which area is superior. The feature will run by 5 p.m. every Thursday.

Here are the rules — we'll alternate "home field" each week, meaning the home team can wait to see what the visitors pick, then respond with picks and commentary of their own. We'll pick against the lines, and the winner will force the loser to do something childish, like hold up a "Lew-Port is No. 1 and StenzTV stinks" sign.

Got a better idea on the bet? Send it to us at newsroom@belowthefalls.com and we'll mull it over. Or you can simply send in your ideas and we might include them in the feature.

Here's the first week of fun, with the lines courtesy of www.scoresandodds.com and BelowTheFalls.com (the good guys) getting home-field advantage:

Bears @ Saints (-7):
StenzTV says: SAINTS — I’m taking the Saints because they are gonna bounce back huge and I can’t stand Cutler’s sourpuss face.
BelowTheFalls.com says: BEARS — Oh Stenz, letting looks get in the way. Can the Saints stop anybody? Has the rest of the league finally realized Gregg Williams isn't a genius?

Chiefs @ Lions (-8):
StenzTV says: CHIEFS — The Bills crushed the Chiefs and I think Detroit is on the rise, they can definitely score and it isn’t looking like Cassel can ... but the Lions giving 8? Wow ... I’ll take the Chiefs and the points.
BelowTheFalls.com says: LIONS — An old friend once told me when a line looks ridiculous, it's a sucker bet. Don't take it. The Lions haven't given 8 since they were based back in Portsmouth (they really were there at one point, but the stat is obviously a fraud). You can be a sucker, Stenz.

Jags @ Jets (–10):
StenzTV says: JETS — As much as I can’t stand Rex Ryan, he cracks me up. They have a great team and I think the Jags don’t. Jets will pound them at home.
BelowTheFalls.com says: JAGS — The Jets will win, but their offense isn't good enough to cover double digits.

Raiders @ Bills (-4):
StenzTV says: BILLS — The Buffalo Bandwagon is full, and no one needs to jump off just yet. Ride the high for one more week until Doomsday on Sept. 25 when NE rolls into town.
BelowTheFalls.com says: BILLS — We hate jinxing the home side by pulling for them, but we still can't buy into Jason Campbell. And the Bills defense might be better than advertised.

AZ @ Wash (-4):
StenzTV says: AZ — How did Washington win a game? They won’t win here. Fitz all day.
BelowTheFalls.com says: REDSKINS — C'mon Stenz, just because you like names that in "Z", we're not sure Kevin Kolb is getting Fitz the ball. And Beanie Wells won't get 90 yards again.

Ravens (-4) @ Titans:
StenzTV says: RAVENS — Baltimore will steamroll them.
BelowTheFalls.com says: RAVENS — It's hard to believe this line's only four, which might make it a sucker bet, but the Titans offense is out of sorts and Lee Evans might get a score here.

Seattle @ Pitt (–12.5):
Stenz TV says: STEELERS — I gotta think that Pitt will bounce back against the Seagulls and win by a couple touchdowns. Seagulls are rats with wings.
BelowTheFalls.com says: STEELERS — Big Ben and Co. have plenty to prove. Seahawks simply don't have much talent.

GB (–10) @ Carolina:
StenzTV says: PACKERS — Hmmm… I want to make this one my upset spread-wise, but I just can’t.
BelowTheFalls.com says: PANTHERS — You afraid, Stenz? Must be an above-the-escarpment thing. Cam Newton's no Tom Brady, but he's no JaMarcus Russell either. Panthers score late to cover.

TB @ Minn (–3):
StenzTV says: BUCS — I’ll take TB and the three points. Not much to say here.
BelowTheFalls.com says: BUCS — I agree. Josh Freeman's due to bounce back with a decent game.

Browns (-1) @ Colts:
StenzTV says: COLTS — I’m gonna take the Colts here, although I think they are gonna be horrid this year, we’re talking the Browns here and they are more woeful than the Bills when it comes to letdowns (well, maybe not, but youknowhutImsayin’). So I’m sure the Browns will screw up this seemingly easy win.
BelowTheFalls.com says: BROWNS — If Cleveland would have manned up and signed a free agent receiver in the summer, I think they'd be OK. Colt McCoy's solid and they've got the running game to boot.

Dallas (-3) @ 49ers:
StenzTV says: COWBOYS — Gimme Dallas.
BelowTheFalls.com says: COWBOYS — A man of many words! But I concur, Tony Romo got his monthly botching out of the way early. The Cowboys looked good aside from the finish.

Texans (-3) vs. Miami:
StenzTV says: TEXANS — Chad Henne was impressive on MNF, but Houston can score and crush on defense.
BelowTheFalls.com says: DOLPHINS — I'm not big on the Fins, but the Texans' opening day win had to be a flash in the pan. Arian Foster's back, but might not start. Something's fishy.

SD @ NE (–7):
StenzTV says: CHARGERS — Hmmmmmmmm, tough one. Uuughhh. I’ll go SD (with the points) against my favorite team, but only ‘cuz they are getting 7. Otherwise, Brady throws for 700-plus.
BelowTheFalls.com says: PATRIOTS — The Chargers hate playing until November, and even tried to let creampuff Minnesota hang around last week. The Pats are still reinventing the game — now it's with two tight end formations in which both guys can get deep. Scary.

Cincy @ Den (–5):
StenzTV says: BENGALS — Kyle Orton was pure vomit on Monday night ... and after this snorefest, he will turn over the reigns to Tim Tebow.
BelowTheFalls.com says: BENGALS — We're not (Rocky Mountain) high on Orton, either, but the real problem is mounting injuries. Champ, Knowshon and Elvis lead a list of players who only need one name to be recognized on the injury report.

Philly (-1) @ Atl:
StenzTV says: EAGLES — “Dream team?” Not quite, but this game should be good. As much as I can’t stand the animal murderer/torturer, I gotta say Philly for the sake of this here pickin’ competition.
BelowTheFalls.com says: EAGLES — We're on the other extreme, thinking that might have been Michael Vick's worst game of the season, yet Philly still won comfortably. Look out, NFC.

Rams at NYG (–4.5):
StenzTV says: GIANTS — Because of injuries, I’ll take NYG, even though I think Manning is subpar.
BelowTheFalls.com says: RAMS — Bradford practiced Wednesday (we get the home-field advantage, so we knew that) and St. Louis will find a way to keep this one tight.

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Upcoming Hard Rock events!

2011-09-15T12:27:00.004-04:00

(click image for larger version - scan the qcode with your smartphone app for more great info!)

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YARDSALEAPALOOZA!

2011-09-14T12:00:00.004-04:00

Norm MacDonald Live at the Casino 9/3

2011-08-18T14:41:00.004-04:00

Tickets start at $20.00... ya can't go wrong! Stay tuned for more information...

A classic segment on Conan:

HEY! Constant Complainers and Naysayers... are you registered?

2011-08-17T12:51:00.002-04:00

(From Niagara Gazette) NIAGARA FALLS — The last day to register to vote in person for the Sept. 13 primary election is Aug. 19. The Niagara County Board of Elections will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and will offer extended hours from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Aug. 18.

Voter registration forms are also available at all U.S. post offices, banks, public libraries, town and city halls and the board of elections office at 111 Main St., Suite 100, Lockport. Anyone who moved since voting last must re-register to be eligible for this year’s primary and general elections.

If you are going to be out of the country on election day, you may apply for an absentee ballot by calling 438-4045 or 438-4043.

Group Marriage Ceremony at Goat Island, Niagara Falls USA

2011-08-16T22:24:00.002-04:00

Amazing what they can do with Photoshop...

2011-08-09T23:35:00.001-04:00

(Click photo for larger image)

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YARDSALEAPALOOZA!

2011-08-09T15:21:00.002-04:00

There is room for you to sell - just bring your own table and set up! Please contact us if you have interest stenztv@gmail.com

Sabre Park mobile home residents facing eviction under sale

2011-08-08T23:40:00.003-04:00

TOWN OF NIAGARA — Residents of a mobile home park near the Fashion Outlets mall received notices this past weekend informing them of their need to find another place to live. CLICK HERE FOR FULL ARTICLE

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Nik Wallenda Press Conference @ The Top of the Falls Restaurant

2011-08-04T10:59:00.001-04:00

City Council Has Concerns About Holiday Market

2011-08-02T10:59:00.000-04:00

In his latest report, the developer of a proposed downtown holiday market in Niagara Falls expresses enthusiasm about the direction of the project.

Not all city lawmakers are quite as excited at this point... click link for full Niagara Gazette article:

Concerns linger over Holiday Market in the Falls

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Quick Survey!

2011-08-01T14:34:00.009-04:00

Follow this link to fill out the Downtown Niagara Falls Business Association Non-Member Survey:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/C7LW2TV

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Holiday Market Progress - Niagara Gazette

2011-08-01T10:44:00.001-04:00

NIAGARA FALLS — Idaho developer and Ellicotville native Mark Rivers has been working for several weeks on a plan to bring a 36-day, European-style holiday market to downtown Niagara Falls. Rivers, whose firm, Brix and Co., has received state and federal financial assistance for the project, submitted an updated progress report to city officials late Friday. In it, he claims he has reached 75 percent completion on programming for major events, including scheduling of four live concerts, a Taste of the Season food-and-wine festival, an outdoor ice skating rink, a Santa’s Workshop, Christmas tree lighting ceremony and a high school choir singing competition. According to the report, Rivers has so far requested reimbursement for expenses totaling $25,318, or roughly 27 percent of the initial commitment of $95,000 from the city and the state-run USA Niagara Development Corp. Rivers maintains that all other costs have been borne by his company to date... Click here for full article: Bringing a little holiday cheer to the Falls

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Stenz on Your Side

2011-07-29T11:27:00.009-04:00

Representing the Downtown Niagara Falls Business Association, I was interviewed yesterday by WGRZ and attempted to squeeze in as much as I could within my time frame! They did coverage at Villella's on Rainbow Blvd (awesome place for dinner), Murphy's, Wine on Third and touched on some of the events and happenings going on with the Downtown Niagara Falls Business Association. Unfortunately, WGRZ's cameras add 40 pounds (instead of the old cliche that the cameras add twenty pounds... dammit!) and they couldn't CGI a full head of hair on me... but oh well, maybe next time. Ha! Check it out here:

http://www.wnyliving.tv/default.aspx

(find the July 30th Downtown Niagara Falls link -halfway down- click link to "view." )

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The DNFBA's 6th Annual Drive for Success!

2011-07-26T15:58:00.005-04:00

We appreciate your past support in participating in our primary fund raising event and are asking for your participation again in 2011. Last year’s event raised nearly $8,000 to utilize towards our mission to stimulate, enhance and nurture an inviting atmosphere for civic, cultural, social and economic activities in Downtown Niagara Falls, New York. We look to build on our success with our 6^th Annual “Drive For Success”.

The date is set with a shotgun start at on Thursday, August 25, 2011. The big news is that we have changed our venue to the spectacular “Hickory Stick” golf course. This course was rated #6 in the country for new courses in 2010 by Golf Digest. We felt this change in venue would enhance the success of the event. The schedule is as follows:

12:30pm Registration

1:30pm Shotgun Start

5:30pm Open Bar

6:00pm Dinner

6:45pm Awards & Door Prizes

Complimentary driving range balls will be available from 12:30pm-1:15pm.

This year’s event will be bigger and better than ever and we trust we can count on your participation.

This year’s event will include the following:

Green Fees & Cart
Registration gift
Cash prize for winning team
Rotating trophy for 1^st place
Great prizes for longest drives, closest to the pins and hole-in-one
Beverages & Dinner on site at Hickory Stick
Silent auction items

If you are interested in a foursome, one of our many sponsorships or making a donation for the auction, please contact us at. Again, thank you for your past support and we look forward to seeing you this summer.

Geoffrey Reeds

Co-Chair

716-278-2623

Stephanie Nolle
Co-Chair

716-278-2607

(click image for large, printable version!)

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Mayor, council ballots filed in the city

2011-07-18T01:50:00.001-04:00

From NIAGARA GAZETTE — A group of previously announced candidates for Niagara Falls mayor and city council followed through on their promises to run for office by formally filing nominating petitions with the Niagara County Board of Elections this week:

Mayor, council ballots filed in the city

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After leaving my office...

2011-07-16T14:57:00.001-04:00

(submitted by Rob Brawn via Facebook)

Left my office tonight at Hyde Park and Pine, passed by LaHacienda and Michaels where people were outside the doors waiting to get in. Passed by Christoforo and the Como, both packed.Passed through Pine at Portage and both the NACC and Schoelkopf Park were getting ready for festivities planned with the Main Street biz garden walk event this weekend.(Lookin great around the park and the old high school i must say)Proceeded by Legends Park where lots of kids were playin on the new basketball courts and that area was lookin good.Then down Main towards Rainbow Blvd. where that area was rockin with tourists everywhere and the city's Friday night concert series was set up and getting ready.At Old Falls and Rainbow there is some type of new little attraction with rock climbing wall and a couple others,plus some kind of funky whip you around gizmo.The new TGI Fridays was slammin inside, with lots of people buzzin around outside along the Old Falls corridor.It looks like the parking area for the casino, where the old Lackey Plaza was, is in store for some kind of major renovation with all the construction vehicles assembled.Oh yeah, some new entrepreneur with his Niagara pedal cab was movin people through the area,what a cool idea! Back up Pine onto Hyde Park and passed by the stadium where the parking lot was packed with vehicles and Niagara Power baseball was entertaining all the fans.Whew! who says nothins goin on around here?That was just a little sample from that area of town. Not bad...

Falls HOF updates image

2011-07-12T01:09:00.002-04:00

Falls HOF updates image - Click here to see StenzTV.com's new redesign of the Niagara Falls Sports Hall of Fame logo, style, etc...

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The Morre Building Grand Opening

2011-07-09T13:05:00.007-04:00

Grand Opening Happy Hour Celebration!

2011-06-30T22:03:00.007-04:00

451 Third Street is now a non-boarded up building on 3rd Street. Come join us at Wine On Third at 5pm July 8th to raise a glass for this huge accomplishment. Take a walk through... who knows, ya might find yerself a new apartment or a new space for that business you always dream of opening...

NOAH Should Stick To Building Their Own Boat

2011-06-28T13:53:00.002-04:00

by Craig Avery - Appeared in Niagara Gazette 6/27/2011

In the Bible, Noah was a man who took his beliefs seriously and did something with them. Amidst criticism, ridicule, and ostracism, he stayed the course and accomplished a miracle. In Niagara Falls, NOAH stands behind an altar and uses 20/20 hindsight to criticize others who are trying to execute their profession. Howard Milstein has accomplished more in developing real estate, creating jobs, and enhancing communities than anyone else who has cast an interest in participating in the future of Niagara Falls, NY.

When an investor/developer begins a project, it is nothing but a gamble. There are countless factors that influence the direction of even the simplest of developments. The complexity and enormity of the NFR’s responsibility in Niagara Falls is monstrous. But that is why we need to let developers do what they do, while we have a responsibility to do what we do. What is that? We are a community. We should act like one. We should be a community that works together, not against one another. Staging a mock ribbon cutting to ridicule someone who has a huge stake in Niagara Falls’ future is not working together.

Isn’t there a movement in the schools to stop bullying? NOAH interviewed me several years ago to begin to document what they found as good suggestions to improve Niagara Falls. What has resulted from their efforts? A mock ribbon cutting. I suggest Mr. Milstein and his team stage a mock church pew sale to represent the declining numbers of people attending church on Sundays. Shouldn’t a faith-based organization be encouraging, nurturing, and supporting? Perhaps NOAH, the faith-based organization of mentors to the world’s professionals could find some improvements within their house to tackle developments of their own that are lacking. Perhaps if more people were attending church because the church leaders had positive things for them to think about, those parishioners would act more like a community than a lynch mob.

A community that works together succeeds together. Businesses thrive, the area becomes more attractive, and things improve. Maybe then, the pendulum could swing in a direction that would be advantageous for Mr. Milstein to accomplish his original plan for grand development of all the land he owns. Meanwhile, he pays his taxes, and waits for his gamble to pay off. If I were a betting man, I’d leave the table in a place where others want to play my cards for me.

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This Video Left Me in a State of Speechless Awe...

2011-06-21T16:17:00.001-04:00

I'm throwin' out the challenge almost 25 years later for WGRZ Channel 2 News to answer this rap back with some funky fresh beats and lyrics ON YOUR SIDE style! Kevin O', Jodi, Mary Alice, Scott, Dave, Ron, Marissa, Josh and the whole WGRZ Posse have to put some serious time in the studio in order to win this battle. Y'all got served by Irv!

Dear Viewers... enjoy this video, but please don't try this at home... no seriously, please don't.

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Black and White Print Ad - StenzTV.com

2011-06-20T15:25:00.004-04:00

I wanted to create an eye catching print ad for local marketing... tryin' to think of a character or a photo of a big ugly face that you couldn't miss in your newspaper and all that kept coming to mind was Large Marge from Pee Wee's Big Adventure (one of my all time favorite movies!). "Tell 'em Large Marge sent ya!"

(click image for larger version)

Really doesn't have an iota of association with Niagara Falls, but I figured a big scary lookin' large woman would get everyone's attention.

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Tesla & Mark Twain

2011-06-17T15:27:00.002-04:00

(Click on image for larger photo)

Madison's Ke$ha Remix

2011-05-30T16:33:00.001-04:00

The next American Idol? Stay tuned for more from Madison... the youngest member of the StenzTV.com cast and crew.

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Three Stooges - Niagara Falls! Slowwwly I Turned...

2011-05-30T12:53:00.003-04:00

Classic... and The Three Stooges to boot. Can't get any better...

And if ya liked that... check out this clip from the Mike Douglas show featuring Moe Howard. Not only is it a cool history of the Stooges, but also just a great talk show set! Check it out here: http://youtu.be/lm6F5-qYONo

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Going Over the Edge - Caught on Tape.

2011-05-29T20:54:00.003-04:00

This film clip is unbelievable... been making the rounds lately online, so I thought I'd post it too... cuz I'm a follower... yep, that's right. Notice how they call it "Rainbow Falls" ... huh? Amazing bit of video, none-the-less.

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StenzTV Switcheroo

2011-05-29T15:24:00.005-04:00

Happy Memorial Day Weekend Y'all! We will be rolling out a whole new StenzTV.com this summer... time to get funky fresh with creativity and imagination, as well as all the great information about your hometown - Niagara Falls, USA! You will find new updates weekly, new writers, new contributors and a whole new look and feel. We will also be rolling out the "TV" aspect of StenzTV with great new hometown videos and the StenzTV television show airing on local cable (Wayne's World, Wayne's World... party time...excellent!) haha!

Take a look at this new style blog for the site... we may stick with it, we may not... your feedback counts! Let us know by emailing us at: stenztv@gmail.com

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Niagara Falls Railroads

2011-05-29T14:31:00.015-04:00

(click on photo for larger image)

Back in the days when rail travel was the norm, Niagara Falls had many railroad lines and yards, which today are easily forgotten. The city was served by the New York Central RR, Erie RR (and others) as well as the Niagara Junction RR which serviced our industries. Today, what are left of the rail lines and yards are but a glimmer of what once was. What with the talk of a new passenger station being built in the north end of the city one might reflect on what a tourist attraction our old station at 2nd St and Falls St would have been if it had been restored, instead of torn down... (TO READ THE REST OF THIS ARTICLE, ALONG WITH GREAT PHOTOS, PLEASE VISIT: iWitnessNiagara)

Submitted by Jim Brunn..

Historic Niagara Falls Garden Walk

2011-05-28T19:54:00.004-04:00

(click image for larger version)

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Hard Rock Cafe's Summer Concert Series

2011-05-28T14:47:00.001-04:00

(click for larger image)

2-Jul - Our Lady Peace
Son of the Sun
Klear
Agent ME (MiA Charity Partner)

9-Jul - Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings
Dive House Union
The Rockaz
TBA (MiA Charity Partner)

16-Jul - Psychedelic Furs
Colors in the Air
The Albrights
Inlite (MiA Charity Partner)

23-Jul - BPO - Music of Zepplin
Caitlin and the Jamie Moses Band
The Evil Elite (From Cleveland, OH)
Six String Circus (MiA Charity Partner)

30-Jul - Hawksley Workman
MF Zeis
Ransomville
Grace Stumberg (MiA Charity Partner)

6-Aug – 54-40
Free Henry!
Vinnie DeRosa
Brass Monkeez (MiA Charity Partner)

13-Aug - Blood, Sweat & Tears
More Than Me
John Mameli
Dallas (MiA Charity Partner)
Hey Monea! (From Canton, OH)

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