Photo by Ginny Kropf: Heather Smith sits in the conference room of Velocitii, the company she purchased three years ago with partners Brian O’Neill and Jeff Brandt. Velocitii has been named Business of the Year by the Orleans County Chamber of Commerce.

MEDINA – The Orleans County Chamber of Commerce’s Business of the Year is proud of its accomplishments during only 11 years in existence.

Velocitii was founded by Roger Hungerford as a business process outsourcing company which provides customer service, technical support and back office work on behalf of other companies, said Heather Smith of Webster, chief executive officer.

“Roger wanted to create a company that was about job growth in the area,” Smith said.

Smith joined the company in 2020 as chief operating officer and rose to CEO six months later. She purchased the company three years ago with her partners Brian O’Neill and Jeff Brandt. The company has grown from 55 employees when Smith started to 180 now, most of whom work from home.

“We have tapped into the market of people looking for virtual work,” Smith said. “It works for us.”

Velocitii’s customers are from all over the United States, Smith said, one of which is from the local area.

Among their customers are a waste management company in the Northeast and a regional health care company in the Northwest.

The services they provide their clients include customer service, technical support and customer support, such as processing health care claims and accounts payable and receivable.

Velocitii has won a Top Workplaces Award for the last three years, based on a third-party survey of employees’ engagement and satisfaction.

Smith said she is proud to have tripled their size since joining the company. She praised her entire team for their efforts in building a culture where clients want to work with them and employees want to work for them.

“It’s an honor to have built a culture that has been recognized by an external organization,” she said. “Our goal is to keep growing. Our entire team is very excited about this Chamber award. It was a pleasant surprise.”

Community faces challenges with housing, healthcare, lack of childcare, food insecurity

Photos by Ginny Kropf: Lt. Governor Antonio Delgado gets a tour of Community Action’s Main Street Corner Thrifts, Gifts and More store during his visit on Tuesday. Here, he talks with Cassie Healy, manager of the store; Renee Hungerford, Community Action’s chief executive officer; and Jackie Dunham, chief operating officer.

ALBION – Staff of Community Action of Orleans and Genesee welcomed Lt. Governor Antonio Delgado to the main Street Corner Thrifts, Gifts and More store on Tuesday, where they shared their agency’s many services and struggles with budget cuts.

Delgado toured the store and visited with Renee Hungerford, CEO; Jackie Gardner, COO; Melinda Daniels, executive assistant; Ryan Lasal, director of Community Programming; Barbara Shine, board member; and Cassie Healy, Community Development and ROMA manager.

Hungerford explained the programs Community Action offers, saying the agency has come a long way in the last five years.

“We’ve rebuilt our programs to focus on the differences we can make with people and achieve meaningful outcomes, rather than focus on only services,” Hungerford said. “Our mission is to help people become self-sufficient. That means we partner with people and provide support as they help themselves. Resources are scarce, so outcomes are monitored to ensure services are meeting the objectives for which they are intended.”

Some of the programs discussed included High School Credit Recovery, the Prom Program, the new Fresh Start Center, Veterans’ Telehealth program, Case Management/Emergency Services, Head Start and Early Head Start, Project Salus, Child Care Resource Center, Weatherization, Cooling and Door-Through-Door Transportation services. Hungerford also shared information on the Holley Community Center, where a prepared meal is served five days a week. They are also working with Orleans County Mental Health to bring mental health services to the Holley Center.

Lasal spoke of the lack of childcare, which is an epidemic in Orleans County, he said. He said the demand is not even close to being met, and the county has run out of money from the Child Care Assistance Program to fund childcare programs. Community Action is doing its best to subsidize what they can to keep children in Head Start programs, but this is not sustainable, Hungerford said. Parents, including key staff members, are facing the decision of leaving a job due to the inability to afford daycare. This is then exacerbated as staff shortages impact what service that can be offered.

Staff of Community Action of Orleans and Genesee welcomed Lt. Governor Antonio Delgado to the Main Street Corner Thrifts, Gifts and More store on Tuesday. From left are Amanda DeSantis, chief of staff for Delgado; Melinda Daniels, executive assistant at Community Action; Delgado; Renee Hungerford, chief executive officer of Community Action; Jackie Dunham, chief operating officer at Community Action; Ryan Lasal, director of Community Programming; and Barb Shine, a member of Community Action’s board.

Hungerford also discussed the local shortage of healthcare services, saying the ratio of individuals to primary care doctors has been more than 13,000 to 1, and just recently dropped to a little under 10,000 to 1.

“Our agency has a strong focus on addressing the ‘social determinants’ of health, such as food insecurity and shelter, to help people stay healthy and try to minimize the burden on the healthcare system,” Hungerford said. “We are a Medicaid 1115 waiver participant, which expands services we are able to provide eligible customers.”

Dunham discussed the Weatherization Program, saying there is a waiting list of one year for people needing help with home improvements. They have a crew of four very dedicated and capable workers, she said, who are determined to make a home comfortable and affordable for a family to live in.

“The feedback we get from their work is ‘Wow!’” Dunham said.

Hungerford added there are concerns with many of their funding sources, including LIHEAP, which could impact the future of the Weatherization Program.

Delgado asked what their biggest concern was, and Hungerford said, “Food and housing.”

“Housing is a big problem,” she said. “When people come to us for emergency shelter, we have nowhere to put them, except in a motel. Housing has a complex layer of needs, in that we need emergency housing, transitional housing, first-time homebuyer support and support for people who own, but need to renovate and repair our aging housing stock. At the other end of the spectrum, if we could attract more businesses, we would need housing that is suitable for potential employees who could move into the area.

She also said we need to attract more businesses, because there aren’t enough jobs, especially well-paying jobs.

“Our population is declining and that is not good for the economy,” she added.

Delgado said his visit is part of his goal to visit Community Action agencies across the state.

“It’s important to touch as many agencies as I can to see what’s going on and to understand the growing need,” he said. “The numbers are growing and the lines are getting longer. I hear that everywhere I go.”

The lieutenant governor’s visit comes as Community Action of Orleans and Genesee celebrates its 60th anniversary this year.

YMCA starting new programs for cooking, chess and winter rock wall climbing

Photos by Ginny Kropf: Andrew Houseman, new senior program director at the Orleans County YMCA in Medina, stands in the newly-remodeled kitchen, where the Y expects to start cooking classes soon.

MEDINA – Andrew Houseman has been preparing himself to take on the role of leading a YMCA.

“This has been my goal all along,” said Houseman, who began his duties as senior program director of the Orleans County YMCA on Oct. 6. “I didn’t expect it to happen so quickly. I’m very happy to be back in my home town.”

Houseman, a Medina native and son of Shawn and Lacy Houseman of Medina, formerly worked as lead trainer at the GLOW YMCA in Batavia and is passionate about revitalizing local programs and expanding opportunities that help strengthen families and promote healthy living. He brings renewed focus on community connection, family engagement and accessible wellness for all ages.

“The YMCA was a big part of my childhood,” said Houseman, a former YMCA youth athlete. “I grew up playing sports here, and it’s incredible to now give back in my leadership role. My goal is to ensure everyone, from kids to seniors, feels welcome, included and excited to be part of what we’re building.”

In Batavia, Houseman helped manage several successful projects, including the rollout of EGYM, which quickly became one of the region’s most successful member engagement initiatives. With a background in mechanical engineering and an MBA from the University of Buffalo, he brings a data-driven and people-first approach to program development.

Under his leadership the Orleans County YMCA is expanding its offerings to serve a wider range of interests and activities. He has several new programs ready to launch, including chess and cooking classes.

The cooking classes will be Bible-based, focusing on foods that were eaten in the Bible.

“Our focus on the Bible is a return to the ‘Christian’ origin of the YMCA,” Houseman said.

Another initiative is a winter program to use the rock wall.

Andrew Houseman stands by the chess tables at the YMCA, where he hopes chess games will become a popular pastime.

An avid chess player, Houseman has already started the YMCA Chess Club and had one evening of chess, and while participation was small, he hopes it will pick up. Play is open to all ages and players may bring their own board and pieces. Games are at 3:30 p.m. on Tuesdays in the Rec Room. Play is free for members and $5 for non-members.

On Oct. 25, the YMCA will welcome all to an open house to meet Houseman and the staff. The day will feature free popcorn, no-join fees for new members and a chance to register for new programs. The event will run from 9 a.m. to noon.

Starting Oct. 29, a six-week program of hockey drills and skills will begin for ages 6 to 13. Participants will build skills, practice drills and scrimmage every night – from 6 to 6:50 p.m. Cost is $50 for members and $80 for non-members. Players can register at glowymca.org.

Other events include pickleball at 8 a.m. Sundays, starting Nov. 9. Play is free, but members and non-members must register to play.

Other upcoming highlights include new group exercise classes designed for all fitness levels and schedules, and the continuation and growth of the YMCA’s highly praised youth sports programs, including efforts to collaborate with local schools to introduce more kids to the benefits of teamwork and physical activity.

“We want the Y to be a true community hub – a place where families connect, kids develop lifelong habits and friends, and adults feel supported in their health journeys,” Houseman said. “There’s truly something for everyone here.”

John D. “JD” Smith Jr.

ALBION – An Albion man was sentenced to 10 years in state prison plus 15 years of post-release supervision for attempted rape in the first degree.

John D. “JD” Smith Jr., 31, was arrested on Dec. 12, 2024  for first-degree rape after allegedly having anal sexual contact with a person under 11 years old. The crime occurred in November 2024.

He pleaded guilty to attempted rape in the first degree and was sentenced on Wednesday in Orleans County Court by Judge Sanford Church.

ALBION – Three Albion residents, all age 18, have been charged with second-degree robbery after allegedly attacking two people and forcibly stealing property from one of the victims, Orleans County Sheriff Chris Bourke said.

Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched at 9:27 p.m. on Thursday to a reported roadside disturbance on Route 98 in the Town of Gaines, Bourke said.

In addition to facing second-degree robbery, a Class C felony, Raekwon Riley, Kwame Riley and Peyton Robinson also have been charged  with conspiracy in the 4th Degree, petit larceny and second-degree harassment.

 “At this time, the incident is believed to be isolated and targeted,” Bourke said. “There is no indication of an ongoing threat to the public.”

The three who were charged were transported to Pre-Arraignment  Detention at the Orleans County Jail for arrangement at CAP Court (Central Arraignment Part) at a later time. The Orleans County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Albion Police Department in the investigation.

Press Release, NYS Department of Transportation

MURRAY – The New York State Department of Transportation is advising motorists that State Route 272 (also known as County Line Road) in the Town of Murray, Orleans County, will be closed to all traffic between Ridge Road and Kendall Creek Road beginning at 6 a.m. Monday, October 20, to accommodate a culvert replacement project.

Motorists should follow posted detours using State Route 18, State Route 237 and State Route 104. The road is expected to be reopened by the end of November.

Motorists should anticipate travel delays during this time and are advised to seek alternate routes if necessary. Construction activities are weather dependent and subject to change based on conditions.

Motorists are urged to slow down and drive responsibly in work zones. Fines are doubled for speeding in a work zone. Convictions of two or more speeding violations in a work zone could result in the suspension of an individual’s driver license.

Community turned out Saturday in big benefit for Hodgins family

Photo by Tom Rivers: Michael Hodgins is shown Saturday in the Shelby fire hall where the community packed the building for a spaghetti dinner and basket raffle in his honor to help the family with expenses for his second heart transplant. Hodgins had his first heart transplant 35 years ago.

By Tom Rivers and Ginny Kropf

MEDINA – Michael Hodgins got his new heart Wednesday morning. Hodgins has undergone successful heart transplant surgery for the second time.

The first time was 35 years ago. The community had a big benefit for Hodgins and his family on Saturday at the Shelby fire hall.

Hodgins, 64, was on the list for a heart transplant at the Cleveland Clinic, but the exact date for the surgery couldn’t be known.

On Tuesday, his family got the call at 1:30 p.m. that a heart was available.

He was in Cleveland and headed in for surgery at 10 p.m. that night. He received the new heart at 4 a.m. on Wednesday, his daughter

went in for surgery 10 p.m. on Tuesday with new heart in at 4 a.m. Wednesday, his daughter Alisha Duffina posted on Facebook.

“Michael Hodgins is so resilient and strong!!” Duffina posted on Facebook on Thursday. “Doctors are very pleased with his recovery and he possibly will be ready to graduate to a step down unit tomorrow! Thank you for your continued love and support!”

Hodgins first had a successful heart transplant when he was 28. He had that surgery at Buffalo General and it was a tremendous success giving him 35 more years of life.

Hodgins had a failing heart at age 27. He was born a preemie, just over 2 pounds and had a hole in his heart. He had heart surgery at age 9, and seemed to be doing OK until he was 27.

After more than 20 years with the Jubilee in Medina, he needed to get a new job when the store closed in 2006. Hodgins then joined Medina Memorial Hospital and works in the dietary department at the hospital.

He and his wife, Kathy, have three grown children and seven grandchildren.

Press Release, Orleans County SCOPE

File photo by Tom Rivers: These deer are pictured on Nov. 20, 2014 when they were close to the road on the west side of Route 279 in Gaines, just south of Route 104.

Hunting is a deeply rooted tradition in America.  However, the benefits of recreational hunting go well beyond the enjoyment and challenge it offers to hunters — it also plays a crucial role in wildlife and natural resource management.

With the upcoming hunting season, hunters should be aware of game harvest reporting requirements. Details can be found at: dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/hunting/report-your-harvest.

Additionally, please consider donating a deer to help feed the hungry throughout New York State.

The Venison Donation Coalition, founded by sportsmen and women in 1999, is a not-for-profit organization (501(c)(3)) that helps get New York State venison to those in need while supporting hunting in the state. Please consider donating a deer this year or making a tax-deductible charitable contribution to support this important program.

Learn more at: www.venisondonation.com.

Find local processors at: www.venisondonation.com/processors.

Have a great season and stay safe!

Photo by Ginny Kropf: Jacob Ivison stands outside his business, Homestead Pest Control, at 109 East Bank St., Albion. Homestead is the Orleans County Chamber of Commerce’s New Business of the Year.

ALBION – Jacob Ivision couldn’t be more thrilled about his recent honor of being named New Business of the Year by the Orleans County Chamber of Commerce.

“I started my company in January 2024 and to be recognized that early on is very humbling,” Ivison said.

Ivison’s introduction to the world of pest control came while he was working as a delivery driver for an agricultural chemical facility during the Covid pandemic.

“I was delivering products to the owner of a pest control business in Middleport, when we started talking about the nature of his business,” Ivison said. “I’d been spraying our house for bugs with my father since I was a tyke. The guy said I should think about getting into the industry.”

Ivison said he got busier with his delivery job, but three years later when his son was born, a light switch flipped.

“I knew I had to do something that would give him the best life I could,” Ivison said.

He started hitting the books and testing in preparation of opening his own pest control business. He already had a basic license and he added categories to it and got his full license in 2020. During all this time, he said his wife Kara was very supportive of his efforts.

“I could not have done it without her,” he said.

He began doing pest control in homes and commercial facilities to rid them of bugs and rodents.

“There is no shortage of pests,” he said.

When he was ready to open his own business, he discovered his landlord had a vacant store on Bank Street in Albion. It turned out to be the perfect place for Ivison to expand his new business.

 He soon realized he needed an addition to his business, and he hired Matthew Zaffran as office manager.

“Having someone here all the time to answer the phone has resulted in a lot of business for us,” Ivison said. “So many people call another exterminator and get an answering machine, so they call us.”

Ivison said the most challenging job thus far was eliminating an infestation of yellow jackets from a chimney 60 feet in the air on a school roof.

When the gentleman in Middleport who convinced Ivison to pursue the pest control business lost his one employee, he contracted with Ivison to take care of his customers.

“Learning from somebody with 50 years’ experience in the business is more than the knowledge he has shared, it is the confidence he has instilled in me that I can fix my customers’ problems.”

Ivison and his family live in his family’s 1800s homestead on Ivison Road in Byron, where the road named for his ancestors.

Homestead Pest Control can be reached by calling (585) 460-4663 or e-mailing protectyourhomestead@gmail.com.

Photos by Tom Rivers: This leaf with some rain drops is shown on Tuesday in Carlton at the upper parking lot of St. Mary’s Archers Club off Clark Mills Road.

It’s peak fall foliage throughout most of Western New York, with Orleans County at “near peak” conditions, according to the I Love NY Fall Foliage update that was released on Wednesday.

Some parts in NY are past peak – the Adirondacks, Catskills, 1000 Islands and parts of the Chautauqua-Allegheny region.

An observer for Albion reported a 65% change in Albion “with a vibrant mix of fall hues.”

The fall foliage map for the state shows a range of progression around the state, but most areas are peak or past peak.

This is a spot at the Archers Club where there is a split in two ridges. It’s amazing how the trees stay upright.

This shows the canal looking east from Butts Road in Albion on Sunday evening.

Photo and press release from Brockport Elks Riders

The Brockport Elks Riders #2110’s dice run, led by Ricky Standish Jr., proudly donated $2,350 to Community Action of Orleans & Genesee County’s Holiday Program. Next year the group plans to continue their dice run and will donate to the Pirate Toy Fund.

The event brought together riders and community members to raise funds that will help provide holiday meals, toys, and essentials to families in need across both Orleans and Genesee counties.

The Brockport Elks Riders #2110 continue to serve their community through charitable rides and events that reflect the Elks’ values of giving and fellowship.