Local hero

Unable to drive in Buffalo's deadly blizzard, Jay Withey broke in to a school, went back with a snow blower to get other trapped motorists into the warm school, then broke into the cafeteria for food and the nurse's office for blankets. Police say the 27-year-old mechanic saved 24 lives.

The blizzard survivors cleaned up after themselves, police said. They found a note, addressed "to whomever it may concern." (Note the correct use of "whomever.")

"I’m terribly sorry about breaking the school window & for breaking in the kitchen … I had to do it to save everyone and get them shelter," the note said.

It was signed: "Merry Christmas, Jay."

The survivors hope to get together again for a reunion -- in summer.