The Buffalo News reported today that the Town of Amherst last Monday became the first Erie County municipality to pass a law that would prohibit drivers from composing, reading or sending a text message while behind the wheel. Violators face a $150 fine for each offense. It also reported that the Cattaraugus County Legislature passed a similar law in June. Niagara County and Erie County legislatures are expected to vote on similar proposed laws in the coming weeks.

True Heroes
Buffalo firefighters hung drapes of mourning outside two firehouses on Jefferson Avenue and Main Street on Monday, out of respect for Lt. Charles W. “Chip” McCarthy Jr. and Firefighter Jonathan S. Croom.