By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 14 February 2026 at 1:43 pm
Photos by Tom Rivers: Rollin Hellner speaks during a Jan. 29 Medina Village Board held at the high school auditorium. At the meeting he faulted the board for poor planning with the purchase of a new ladder truck without having a spot to place it. During the meeting Hellner said he was running for mayor in the March 18 election, but he decided not to seek the position and is instead backing Deborah Padoleski, a retired village clerk-treasurer and current trustee. Padoleski on Feb. 9 made the motion to declare the ladder truck surplus, and two other trustees backed that motion.
MEDINA – Rollin Hellner’s supporters have his signs around Medina, urging people to vote for him for mayor and “Make Medina Greater” on March 18.
But Hellner ultimately decided not to pursue the position. Tuesday was the deadline for submitting petitions signed by at least 100 registered voters in Medina. Hellner, 32, said he had enough signatures but is instead throwing his support behind Deborah Padoleski.
That makes it a two-person race with Padoleski against current Mayor Marguerite Sherman.
Hellner, owner of The Walsh, also owns a property development business. He said he didn’t want to split votes with Padoleski, who he said shares a similar goal as mayor. When Hellner announced his campaign for mayor, he said he didn’t know Padoleski also was planning to run.
He shares Padoleski’s position that the village didn’t do enough planning with the new ladder truck and fire hall addition, and its high taxes are driving out residents and discouraging businesses from investing in Medina.
“We have similar views,” Hellner said today about Padoleski. “A lot of business owners are frustrated with the current administration. And the taxes are just burying people.”
Hellner said village officials can come across as picking favorites and not always being fair in applying the rules.
He said the board and village government need to develop a plan for addressing the aging water and sewer lines, and also the sidewalks in disrepair.
He regrets Medina is now in the news around Western New York about the ladder truck and not having a permanent place to put it. The truck was in the compost facility and now will go to the DPW garage which is heated – until the board decides whether to sell it or keep it.
“The fire truck gets a lot of press coverage and it’s embarrassing,” Hellner said. “People see the division on board that’s not the Medina I came here for.”
He believes Padoleski can be a strong agent of change in bringing down the tax burden and helping to unify the village government.
Hellner has encouraged people who have campaign signs out for him to swap them out once the new ones arrive for Padoleski.
Sherman has been the mayor for nearly two years. She announced on Jan. 29 she wants to form a Long-Term Strategic Planning Committee to focus on Medina’s short and long-term infrastructure needs, financial sustainability, and responsible growth while preserving the character of our village.
Padoleski is running as a team with trustee candidates, Mark Prawel and Jeff Wagner. They are running under the “People’s Party.” Sherman is running under the “Village Party.”
Another candidate, Dean Bellack, is running for trustee under the “Connect Orleans Party.”
Medina’s local election don’t have the major political parties. Candidates instead pick an independent party line.
The Medina Village Board is shown during a meeting on Jan. 29 in the high school auditorium. From left include Trustee Deborah Padoleski, Trustee Jess Marciano, Village Clerk-Treasurer Jada Burgess, Mayor Marguerite Sherman, Trustee Mark Prawel and Trustee Scott Bieliski.
Photos courtesy of Assemblyman Hawley’s Office: Assemblyman Steve Hawley picked up valentines created by students at Jackson Primary School in Batavia and delivered those valentines to residents at the New York State Veterans Home at Batavia.
Press Release, Assemblyman Steve Hawley
BATAVIA – Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) continued his annual Valentines for Veterans initiative, bringing together local students and veteran residents at the New York State Veterans Home at Batavia.
Handmade cards created by students at Jackson Primary School were gathered and delivered in person to the veterans.
“This event is a great opportunity every year to show my appreciation for our veterans and all of the sacrifices they have made to keep us free,” said Hawley. “As a veteran myself, the son of a veteran and a member of the Assembly Veterans Affairs Committee, I know the hard work and dedication these brave men and women have given over the years, and I hope events like this can serve as a way to give back.”
Hawley began the visit at Jackson Primary School, stopping by Mrs. Megan Harloff’s first grade and Mrs. Melissa Mattice’s kindergarten classes to talk with students about veterans and the six branches of the military while thanking them for their thoughtful valentines.
The day concluded at the New York State Veterans Home at Batavia, where Hawley personally handed out the valentines and expressed gratitude to residents for their service.
“This program connects students with our veterans, and in turn, our veterans receive messages of gratitude, such as ‘Thank you for your service,’” Hawley added. “It’s a truly rewarding experience for everyone involved.”
This evocative sign was mercifully saved from the garbage pile by Erica Joan Wanescki who donated it to the Medina Historical Society.
By Catherine Cooper, Orleans County History
“Illuminating Orleans” – Volume 6, No. 4
The Bishop Nursing Home in Medina, Rose Villa Nursing Home in Albion, the Rembrandt Nursing Home in Kendall are but a few of the Orleans County facilities that provided residential care for elderly and incapacitated patients from the 1930s to the 1970s.
Variously referred to as “convalescent homes,” “care homes” or “old-age homes,” they were privately owned and operated. Usually located in larger houses, the number of patients depended on how many bedrooms could be reconfigured and could range from 5 to 30.
In many cases the homeowners were nurses. Additional nursing staff were employed to cover shifts and nighttime hours. Doctors visited on a regular schedule and patient records were kept.
Patient care was provided in a homestyle setting. Meals were home-cooked, residents who were not bedridden could socialize in a common area. Family members or outside hired help assisted with housekeeping tasks.
The Holley Standard of June 15, 1954, contains an account of a new facility, the Birner Nursing Home in Kendall:
“After considerable remodeling and installations to conform with state laws, including the addition of a fire escape, the home is now ready for occupants. The patients will have the entire second floor, including a small sitting room of their own and a total of 12 patients can be taken care of. Mr. and Mrs. Binder and their two daughters will live downstairs”
The evolution of this era of public health care is complex. The concept of public responsibility for the care of the indigent had long been established and had evolved through various phases. By the beginning of the 20th century, the poorhouse model of care was under stress. Poverty rates among the elderly increased after the Depression and it was estimated that over 50% had insufficient income to support themselves.
The groundbreaking Social Security Act of 1935 provided a cash income to the elderly poor. However, the act prohibited the payment of cash to any “inmate of a public institution,” as a result of financial irregularities uncovered at almshouses and infirmaries. At that same time, many homeowners had lost their means of income and thus private nursing homes evolved.
The Medina Daily Journal, June 15, 1959 printed this ad for Green Acres Nursing Home in Albion.
We searched through obituary listings on www.nyshistoricnewspapers.org to compile this list:
ALBION
Doloway Nursing Home
Green Acres Nursing Home
Hughsen Nursing Home
Pagel’s Nursing Home
Parker Nursing Home
Rose Villa Nursing Home aka Hazard Nursing Home
BARRE
Waldo Nursing Home
CARLTON
Young’s Nursing Home
HOLLEY
Ethel DeVoe Nursing Home
Lynch Nursing Home
KENDALL
Birner Nursing Home
Rembrandt Nursing Home
MEDINA
Bishop Nursing Home
Casey Nursing Home
Poler Nursing Home
Timmy’s (Timmerman’s) Adult Home
This home care nursing home model was all but phased out by the early 1970s as the State Health Department imposed more stringent requirements.
Mrs. Gertude Patterson, operator of the Bishop Nursing Home in Medina, observed that they were being forced out oof business.
“Rocky (Nelson Rockefeller, (Gov. NYS 1959-1973) got a grant for state-owned nursing homes, so they are trying to force us little ones out of business so they can build big hospital type nursing homes.” (MDJ 8-10-1968)
On June 28, 1969, William Knights, Jr. presided over an auction of the “Entire Household Goods and Supplies” of “The Bishop.” Included were 24 hospital beds, 12 antique rockers, 12 regular rockers, 7, fire extinguishers, night bells, hospital commodes and “many other articles, too numerous to mention.”
(Special thanks to Mrs. Jean Cardone for her recollections. We welcome any additional information, photographs, etc. Send to Catherine.cooper@orleanscountyny.gov)
Apples, onions, cabbage among the crops eligible for payments
Press Release, US Department of Agriculture
WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is providing $1 billion in Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers Program assistance for specialty crops and sugar, commodities not covered through the previously announced Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) program.
These one-time bridge payments will help address market disruptions, elevated input costs, persistent inflation, and market losses from foreign competitors engaging in unfair trade practices that impede exports. Specialty crop producers have until March 13 to report 2025 acres to USDA’s Farm Service Agency.
“President Trump has the backs of our farmers, and today we are building on our Farmer Bridge Assistance program with the Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers Program,” said Secretary Rollins. “Our specialty crop producers continue to feel the negative effects of four years under the Biden Administration, suffering from record inflation, a depleted farm safety net, and delayed disaster assistance.”
The Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers Program is authorized under the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act and will be administered by FSA.
ASCF payments are based on reported 2025 planted acres. Eligible farmers should ensure their 2025 acreage reporting is factual and accurate by 5 p.m. ET on March 13.
Commodity-specific payment rates will be released by the end of March. Crop insurance linkage will not be required for the ASCF Program. However, USDA strongly urges producers to take advantage of the new One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) risk management tools to best protect against price risk and volatility in the future.
More information on ASCF is available online at www.fsa.usda.gov/fba or producers can contact their local FSA county office.
Photos from State Police: More than 300 first responders assisted at the scene of a bus crash on Aug. 22, 2025 last year in Pembroke where five passengers died and 49 others were injured.
Press Release, NY State Police on Feb. 13, 2026
PEMBROKE – On February 11, 2026, the Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Violent Felony Warrant in Troop NYC arrested Bin Shao, 56 of Flushing Queens, NY for Manslaughter 2nd degree- 5 counts (C Felony) and Criminally Negligent Homicide- 5 counts (E Felony).
Shao has been processed by NYSP. Shao was transported to Genesee County Jail and arraigned on February 13 on a sealed indictment. Shao was remanded to the Genesee County Jail on $100,000 bail, $200,000 Bond, and $400,000 Partially Secured Bond.
On August 22, 2025, at 12:20 p.m., Troopers out of SP Buffalo, Troop T responded to a tour bus rollover collision on Interstate 90 (mm403.8), eastbound between exits 48A and 49 in the town of Pembroke, Genesee County.
Investigation determined that a 2005 Van Hool Bus and Coach tour bus owned by M&Y Tour Inc out of Staten Island, NY was traveling east bound on the I-90 from Niagara Falls, NY to New York City.
The bus exited the roadway into the median then abruptly corrected causing the bus to overturn and roll off the I-90 on the south embankment. Multiple passengers were ejected, trapped with 5 deceased at the scene. Forty-nine passengers were taken to multiple hospitals including Erie County Medical Center, Strong Memorial Hospital, Millard Fillmore Suburban, Buffalo General Hospital, Osheis (Golisano) Children’s Hospital and United Memorial Medical Center.
Approximately 319 first responders assisted on scene including Mercy Flight, EMS and local, state and county police departments.
The bus had a total of 54 occupants including the operator, Bin Shao. He had no signs of impairment, and the tour bus had no preliminary mechanical failure.
The five deceased resulting from this collision.
Shankar Kumar Jha, 65 of Madhu Bani, India
Pinki Changrani, 60 of East Brunswick NJ
Xie Hongzhuo, 22 of Beijing, China a Columbia University Student NYC
Zhang Xiaolan, 55 of Jersey City, NJ
Jian Mingli, 56 of Jersey City, NJ
The Collision Reconstruction Unit, Forensic Identification Unit, Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit, Bureau of Criminal Investigation Unit, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, The Office of Homeland Security, NYS Thruway Authority, Genesee County Emergency Management, Erie County Emergency Management, Newstead Emergency Management, Genesee County District Attorney’s Office, National Traffic Safety Board, Monroe County Medical Examiner’s Office, Genesee County Coroner’s Office, New York State Department of Transportation, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and numerous EMS, the Red Cross and fire companies throughout the area assisted in this incident.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 13 February 2026 at 4:45 pm
Press Release, NY State Police, Troop A
BATAVIA – An Elba man was killed in a car accident on Thursday afternoon at West Main Street and Kelsey Road in the town of Batavia, State Police said today.
Thomas J. Luby, 46, was traveling east bound on West Main Street when he crossed the center line with a 1983 Mercury Marquis, striking a 2013 Toyota 4-Runner at about 2:50 p.m.
Luby was transported to Erie County Medical Center with life-threatening injuries. The operator of the 4-Runner had no injuries. While being treated at ECMC, Luby succumbed to his injuries, State Police said.
This is an active investigation. The NYSP Bureau of Criminal Investigation is assisting with this investigation.
Editor’s Note: This article was updated from an earlier version that stated the driver was 79 years old.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 13 February 2026 at 9:20 am
Photos by Ginny Kropf: Orleans County Legislative Chairman Lynne Johnson, second from left, presented citations to John Miga, Department commander; Maureen Morgan, Auxiliary Department president; and Joseph Guidice Jr., Department Detachment commander at the Genesee and Orleans Department Officers’ Testimonial Dinner Tuesday at Batavia Downs.
BATAVIA – Genesee and Orleans counties’ American Legions welcomed members and distinguished guests to their annual Department Officers’ Testimonial Dinner at Batavia Downs on Tuesday night.
Master of ceremonies was David Rumsey, 1st vice commander of Genesee County, who led guests in a salute to the National Colors. This was followed by the invocation by Orleans County Auxiliary chaplain Patty Woodworth, the Pledge of Allegiance and POW/MIA remembrance reading with Rumsey and Joan Fernaays.
Highlight of the evening was introduction of New York State Department Commander John R. Miga; Department president Maureen Morgan and Sons of the Legion Detachment Commander Joseph Guidice Jr.
American Legion’s Department Commander John Miga is presented with citations, from left, Eileen Banker representing Senator Rob Ortt; Miga; Gregg Torrey, representing Senator George Borrello; and Chad Zambito, representing Assemblyman Stephen Hawley.
Guests at the head table were John Miga, Department commander; Ryan Ditacchio, Genesee County commander; Ron Boyd, Orleans County commander; Steve Cybart, 8th District commander; Don Sisson, Department vice commander (7th and 8th districts); David Rumsey, Genesee County 1st vice commander; Maureen Morgan, Auxiliary Department president; Sharon DeBottis, Genesee County Auxiliary president; Cathleen Fox, Orleans County Auxiliary president; Sue Williams, 8th District Auxiliary president; Joseph Guidice Jr., Department Detachment commander; Diman Smith, Detachment vice commander (7th and 8th districts) Joshua Spinler 8th District Detachment commander; and Patty Woodworth, Orleans County Auxiliary chaplain.
Tuesday’s Department Officers’ Testimonial Dinner at Batavia Downs began with a POW/MIA remembrance ceremony by David Rumsey and Joan Fernaays.
Distinguished guests included Gregg Torrey, representing State Senator George Borrello; Eileen Banker, representing State Senator Robert Ortt; Chad Zambito, representing State Assemblyman Stephen Hawley; and Orleans County Legislature Chairman Lynne Johnson.
The program began with Joseph Guidice Jr. of Rockland County, who commented on the guests’ visit to the New York State Veterans’ Home and VA Medical Center Tuesday morning.
“I was awestruck to see the level of care our veterans received,” Guidice said. “It goes above and beyond. “I’ve never had the chance before to sit down and talk to the veterans like that.”
Guidice went on to praise the Sons of the American Legion. He said New York state has the fourth largest detachment of Sons in the nation, with nearly 33,000 members. There are more than 6,000 in our local district, he said. He urged members to get their kids involved in the American Legion.
Guidice went on to describe his personal project, Tunnel to Towers, an organization formed to provide mortgage-free homes to Gold Star families and families of fallen first responders.
“Our goal is to eradicate veterans’ homelessness,” he said.
He also talked about the Child Well-Being Foundation, of which SAL’s nearly $11 million donation makes them the largest donor.
SAL members ae selling commemorative coins for $20 with all proceeds going to the Foundation.
Guidice also talked about the need for all Legion families to be more diligent in reporting their activities to the national organization.
“In Genesee and Orleans counties, we had only 30% reporting, yet we donated more than $7 million,” Guidice said. “There are 64 squadrons in this district and we need to remind everybody we are important. We are impactful.”
He concluded by saying SAL may stand for Sons of the American Legion, but to him it also stands for “Service and Legacy.”
Cathleen Fox and Sharon DeBottis, Auxiliary presidents in Orleans and Genesee counties, respectively, welcomed guests and introduced Sue Williams, 8th District Auxiliary president, who then introduced Maureen Morgan, Auxiliary Department president.
Seated at the head table of the Department Officers’ Testimonial Dinner were, from left, Don Sission, Department vice commander of the 7th and 8th district; Steve Cybart, district commander; Ron Boyd, Orleans County commander; Ryan Ditacchio, Genesee County commander; and John Miga, Department commander.
Morgan has a long-standing record of involvement in the American Legion. A United States Navy veteran from the Lebanon/Grenada War, she is a dual member of the American Legion, a 10-year member of the American Legion Auxiliary and a 25-year member of the Spring Valley American Legion. She said her family are all members of the American Legion.
Morgan also commented on the visit to New York State Veterans’ Home, saying she met some amazing female veterans that day.
She summed up American Legion Auxiliary programs as Mission Outreach, Children in Youth and Community Service.
“None of those would be successful without member support,” Morgan said. “Membership is most important. We need members so we can continue. We are the largest patriot organization in America.”
Also at the head table of the Department Officers’ Testimonial Dinner were Maureen Morgan, Auxiliary Department president; Sharon DeBottis, Genesee County Auxiliary president; Cathleen Fox, Orleans County Auxiliary president; Sue Williams, 8th District Auxiliary president; Joseph Guidice Jr., Department Detachment commander; Diman Smith, Detachment vice commander of 7th and 8th districts; and Patty Woodworth, Orleans County Auxiliary chaplain.
Morgan said Genesee County is at 78.72% of its goal, while Orleans County is at 81.20%. She said the 8th District has added more than 1,000 new members this year.
Morgan’s two major projects this year are a Military Women’s Memorial in Arlington National Cemetery and Empire Girls’ State Program.
Honored guest and final speaker John Miga of Dunkirk was introduced by Don Sisson, Department vice commander.
Miga served in the military in South Korea and was drafted by the American Legion to promote patriotism across New York state in preparation for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence this year.
Miga first commented on how inspiring the visits to the Veterans’ Home and VA were.
“I met a 103-year-old vet today, and it was wonderful,” Miga said. “He was sharp and right on. Another individual I met served in Vietnam, where he was shot down. He kept telling me, ‘I got shot down and got up and took them all out.’ That’s the kind of stories you hear in a place like that.”
Miga also stressed the importance of increasing membership in the American Legion. He said membership in Genesee and Orleans counties is doing pretty well, and as of today, Genesee County had made the largest increase. Albion, he said, was at 92.28% of its goal.
Master of ceremonies and 1st vice commander of the American Legion in Genesee County David Rumsey, right, welcomes Department Commander John Miga to the podium at the annual Department Officers’ Testimonial Dinner Tuesday at Batavia Downs. At left is Ryan Ditacchio, Genesee County commander.
Nationwide, Miga said the American Legion is losing members, and he asked, “Why?”
“Are we not doing things that interest young people,” he asked.
He said there are billions of dollars in benefits to veterans and $32 million in grants to hospitalized vets.
Miga commended Orleans County on their good job with Empire State programs.
“Every year they have somebody in the oratorical,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of Legions’ reporting their programs.
“When we go before the leaders of the county, state and nation, the more we have done, the more they give us,” Miga said.
Miga concluded by sharing his projects for the year – Be the One, Suicide Prevention (we are losing 18 veterans a day to suicide) and Chautauqua’s Safety Village in Ashville.
Continuing the program, citations were presented to American Legion’s Department Commander John Miga from Eileen Banker representing Senator Rob Ortt; Gregg Torrey, representing Senator George Borrello; Chad Zambito, representing Assemblyman Stephen Hawley; and Lynne Johnson, chair of the Orleans County Legislature.
In conclusion representatives of the American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion presented monetary gifts to Commander Miga, President Morgan and SAL Detachment Commander Guidice Jr.
Organizing chairs of the event were Fox and Ditacchio.
In Genesee County, officers of the American Legion are Ryan Ditacchio, commander; David Rumsey, 1st vice commander; Wallace Kornow, finance: and Willian Joyce, Veterans’ Service officer.
American Auxiliary offices are Sharon DeBottis, president and secretary; and MaryAnn Neider, treasurer.
Orleans County Legion leaders are Ron Boyd, commander; Scott Galliford, 1st vice commander; Peter Huth, finance; and Nikolas Mroz, Veterans’ Service officer.
Auxiliary leaders are Cathleen Fox, president; Rachael Spearance, vice president; Kristin Hein, secretary; and Chris Barone, treasurer.
Sons of the American Legion commanders are Peter Hennekey, Squadron35 in Albion; Scott Carlton, Squadron 204 in Medina; John O’Grady, Squadron 575 in Gergen; and Scott O’Neill, Squadron 576 in LeRoy.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 13 February 2026 at 8:37 am
Photos by Ginny Kropf: Archery instructor Merle Fredericks, left, greets young archery Aric Fox and his grandparents Mark and Pam Coville prior to the conclusion of the third archery class at the YMCA in Medina last Monday night.
MEDINA – The third archery class at the YMCA – started and run by Merle and Mitzi Fredericks – wrapped up eight weeks of competition last Monday evening, with a final shoot, some novelty shooting and awarding of trophies to the top three archers.
Fredericks who runs the local chapter of Christian Bowhunters of America at his home, got the idea for the indoor archery range several years ago and after getting permission from the YMCA, spent months clearing out what used to be the indoor shooting range for the National Guard when they occupied the armory.
Students (boys and girls) in grades four through 12 compete for eight weeks. An important component of the classes is learning to be a Christian and each night, in addition to archery instruction, students have a half hour of Scripture.
Archery students and their families and friends wait to be welcomed to the final competition and awarding of trophies after eight weeks of classes at the YMCA.
Students not only learn how to shoot a bow and arrow, but stewardship and good sportsmanship.
Mark and Pam Coville came to watch their grandson Aric Fox, 10, a first-year archer.
“We saw the ad for the classes and saw it was a Christian event,” Mark said. “It sounded like a good program. Aric’s dad is an avid hunter, and like a typical 10-year-old boy, Aric loves to hunt and the outdoors. We shoot in here and outside in summer.”
Instructors of the archery program with Merle and Mitzi are Doug Egert of Middleport and John Curtin of Medina, all certified by the North American Archery in Schools Program.
Merle and Mitzi Fredericks, Doug Egert of Middleport and John Curtin of Medina are all certified archery instructors who work with children in the new archery program at the YMCA in Medina.
Andy and Ann Fisher-Bale enrolled their son Mason, 9-1/2, in the archery program.
“He has participated in other things at the Y and learned about this,” Ann said. Dad is also an archer and his older sister likes to shoot, too.”
The evening concluded with awarding of trophies and refreshments. The top three archers were Niaweik Mt. Pleasant, first, with 1,060 points; Cole Jackson, second, with 1,044 points; and Quincy Atwater, third, with 993 points.
Merle said they have a waiting list to join the archery class.
“Kids just love it,” he said. “I’m proud of all these kids. We are planning something for them in summer, also.”
The next class will begin later in spring, and any child in fourth through 12th grade who is interested may sign up by contacting the Fredericks on Facebook, by e-mail at mfred2@hughes.net or by calling (585) 765-2839.
An important part of the archery classes sponsored by the Christian Bowhunters of America is learning to be a Christian. Here, leader Merle Fredericks leads the class in a few minutes of devotion.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 12 February 2026 at 8:28 pm
This photo shows a printout of a Dollar General rendering of a proposed store on East Avenue in Albion, across from the high school.
ALBION – The Village of Albion Planning Board adjourned a public hearing today about the site plan for a new Dollar General at 327 East Ave. The board will meet again at 5 p.m. onb match 12 and is expected to vote on the site plan.
The plan was supposed to go to the Orleans County Planning Board on jan. 22 for its review. But that meeting was cancelled due to rough winter weather.
Karen Conn, the Village of Albion Planning Board chairwoman, wants the county board to look at the site plan and offer its feedback before there is a final vote by the village.
The Village of Albion Planning Board heard from neighbors during today’s hearing who are concerned the store would bring more traffic by the school and a residential neighborhood. Neighbors also said they are concerned about tractor-trailers being able to maneuver the site and turn onto East Avenue.
The site is zoned general commercial and the store fits the criteria of what is permitted in that zone, Conn said.
The Village Planning Board can make recommendations on how the building should look, traffic flow on site and other issues.
The state Department of Transportation reviewed the entrance and parking lot. Conn said the DOT is recommending Dollar General have tractor trailers turn east out of the site after making deliveries, rather than going west due to the tightness of the site.
The 10,640-square-foot building would have a parking lot with 35 spaces. The village code requires one space for every 200 square feet of gross floor space for retail stores. The Village of Albion Zoning Board of Appeals on Sept. 9 approved a variance to allow for 35 spaces. That is more than enough spots, Dollar General representatives said, and will allow for more green space on site. The company said a store this size typically has 32 parking spaces.
The Broadway Group from Huntsville, Ala. is developer of the store in Albion. The company would demolish a building that has been used for auto sales and a warehouse. Currently, Ridge Road Station is parking smaller school buses on site.
The property is owned by Chris Kinter, the village’s code enforcement officer. He has recused himself from the review of the project with Dan Strong, the Town of Albion code enforcement officer, filling in for the village with this proposal.
Photo by Tom Rivers: The Broadway Group wants to knock down this building at 327 East Ave. and build a new 10,640-square-foot Dollar General across from the high school.
Provided photos: LuAnn Deery Henry, right, has written a new book, A Whirl of Wind. The Kendall resident is also retired as an administrative assistant at Lyndonville Central School.
Press Release, LuAnn Deery Henry
KENDALL – LuAnn Deery Henry is excited to announce the release of her much-anticipated sequel to A Gust of Wind, titled A Whirl of Wind.
This new book takes readers on a powerful journey of self- discovery, love and faith as the story of Katrina continues. A Whirl of Wind is now available in paperback, hardcover, and ebook formats, with the audiobook version coming soon.
A Whirl of Wind isn’t your average love story. It’s a tale about finding your true self, even when life’s storms feel overwhelming.
Katrina’s journey starts when she begins to reconnect with the past. She revisits memories that she’s tried to bury, hoping to understand what went wrong. Her connection with Jack, a man who means the world to her, helps her to search for the guidance and trust she so desires.
The novel continues from A Gust of Wind, Katrina is living at her uncle’s farm, a change of life from where she grew up a different world where life is simple but tough.
Things take a turn when a storm hits. The storm isn’t just about bad weather, it’s a metaphor for the emotional chaos Katrina is going through. As the winds pick up and the skies darken, Katrina’s life starts to feel like it’s spinning out of control. She’s caught in a storm of emotions and memories, unsure of how to move forward. But in the turmoil, she has a choice.
Katrina turns to prayer and reflection, searching for guidance in the quietest moments of her life. It’s in these moments of stillness that she discovers the peace she’s been longing for. The more she lets go of the past and opens herself to the future. She realizes her own confidence and faith and is able to share it with others; her family and friends, as well as the people in the town of Widow’s Peak.
Katrina’s journey has setbacks and moments where she doubts herself. But that’s what makes it real. It’s a story of growth, a reminder that self-acceptance takes time, and it’s not always easy. But through the ups and downs, Katrina learns that real strength comes from embracing who you are, flaws and all.
A Whirl of Wind is more than just a romantic story; it’s about embracing change, letting go of the past, and finding your true self. It’s for anyone who’s ever felt stuck, lost, or unsure of where they’re headed. It’s a story of hope, faith, and the power we all have to rewrite our own stories.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re waiting for life to happen, this book is for you. It’s a reminder that you don’t have to wait for the perfect moment, you have the power to create the change you want, starting now. Katrina’s story is proof that, no matter where you are in life, it’s never too late to find peace, love, and self-acceptance.
About the Author:
LuAnn Deery Henry lives in Kendall with her husband Bob and their two cats, Max and Angel. She has always had a passion for writing, and after balancing a full life with family and career, she’s finally made her dream of writing novels come true. Her books, including A Gust of Wind and A Whirl of Wind, focus on themes of faith, personal growth, and the importance of self-love.
LuAnn Deery Henry finds inspiration in her family’s support, her deep faith, and the simple joys of life, like reading, gardening, and learning about her family’s history. Through her stories, she hopes to remind readers that true happiness comes from within, and that we all have the strength to overcome the challenges life throws our way.
A Whirl of Wind is available for purchase at major online retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and through LuAnn Deery Henry’s website. You can get your copy in paperback, hardcover, or ebook format now, with the audiobook coming soon.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 12 February 2026 at 10:55 am
ALBION – The Albion Village Board voted on Wednesday to increase the fines for parking violations.
The board held a public hearing and there wasn’t any feedback from the community.
Police Chief David Mogle suggested the fines be doubled from their current levels of $25 if paid within seven days of the violation, $30 if paid after seven days but within 30 days, and $35 if paid after 30 days.
Board members didn’t want to double the fines. They opted instead to set the fines at $40 if paid within a week of the violation, $50 if paid after a week and within 30 days, $65 if paid after 30 days.
The Albion Police Department is almost out of parking tickets and will soon be ordering more. Mogle advised the board the fine amounts had not been changed in many years.
The Police Department can issue parking tickets for parking in the street overnight from Nov. 15 to April 15, parking in a no parking zone, blocking a fire lane, parking closer than 10 feet of a fire hydrant, double parking, parking in handicapped parking spot without a permit, parking on curb or sidewalk, and overtime parking.
The board also held a public hearing on Wednesday on increasing the term from two to four years for the clerk-treasurer, deputy clerk and deputy treasurer.
There were no public comments and the board approved the new four-year terms to run concurrently with the mayor’s four-year term.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 12 February 2026 at 8:44 am
Both villages have contested races for mayor, trustee
ALBION/MEDINA – The candidates are set for the March 18 village elections in Albion and Medina with the two communities having races for mayor and trustee.
In Medina, Marguerite Sherman is seeking re-election to a two-year term as mayor. She is running under the “Village Party.”
Deborah Padoleski, a current trustee and retired Medina village clerk/treasurer, is challenging Sherman, a retired special education teacher. Padoleski and Sherman have often been at odds with each other the past two years over the purchase of a new ladder truck for the fire department and a one-bay addition to house the vehicle.
Padoleski said Sherman and the previous board didn’t properly plan for the new truck and addition. Padoleski led the effort to have the new truck declared surplus at Monday’s Village Board meeting, saying that $1.7 million expense plus at least another $1 million for the fire hall addition are unaffordable for the community.
Sherman said the ladder truck is needed and the costs will only rise if the village has to sell this one and eventually pursue another one. The fire hall from the 1930s is in need of upgrades and is too small for the new truck. Sherman has tried to get Padoleski and the majority of the board to back grant applications for the fire hall addition but has been unable to get a consensus so far.
Padoleski is running under the “People’s Party” and is joined by Trustee candidates – Mark Prawel, a current trustee, retired Medina police officer and car mechanic; and Jeffrey Wagner, the owner of the former Apple Grove restaurant in Medina.
Dean Bellack, an active volunteer for the YMCA, United Way and Lions Club, also is running as a trustee under the “Connect Orleans Party.” Bellack has been vocal about the village’s high taxes and need to expand housing options in the community.
In Albion, the Democrats and Republicans held their party caucuses last month. The Democrats picked Joyce Riley, a current village trustee, to run for mayor.
The Republicans backed Tim McMurray, a current trustee for mayor, and also supported Kevin Sheehan and Jami Allport for village trustee.
Sheehan was on the Village Board for many years until 2020. He also worked as Albion’s code enforcement officer and is retired an a union plumber and pipe fitter. He is currently a commissioner for the Albion Joint Fire District.
Allport is the executive director of the Genesee-Orleans Ministry of Concern and the cheerleading coach at Albion.
Tuesday at 5 p.m. was the deadline to file independent petitions signed by at least 100 registered voters in the village. Riley submitted petitions for mayor for the “Vote for Albion” party.
Issac Robinson also submitted petitions as trustee for “Vote for Albion.” Robinson is a former Army medic who used to own the Robinson’s Redemption business in Albion near Walmart. He owns a bottle redemption business in Lockport and works in the arcade industry.
“I just wanted to give people a choice,” Robinson said about running as an independent candidate.
MEDINA – As the cost of living continues to rise, the Village of Medina is highlighting its Senior Citizen Property Tax Exemption as an important way to help older residents remain in their homes and manage increasing expenses.
This exemption is the result of the Village of Medina taking action under Section 467 of the New York State Real Property Tax Law, which authorizes municipal corporations to enact a local law granting up to a 50 percent property tax exemption for qualifying homeowners 65 years of age and older.
The Village’s Local Law was officially filed with the New York State Department of State on March 19, 2024, reinforcing Medina’s commitment to affordability for seniors.
The exemption provides meaningful, income-based tax relief for seniors living on fixed or limited incomes.
Senior Property Tax Exemption highlights include:
Available to homeowners age 65 and older
Authorized under Section 467 of the Real Property Tax Law
Based on annual household income, including Social Security and retirement benefits
Income limit to qualify: $24,700
Graduated tax exemptions ranging from 20% to 50%, depending on income level
The property must be the owner’s primary legal residence, used exclusively for residential purposes, and owned for at least 12 consecutive months.
Applications with proof of income must be filed with the Assessor’s Office by the taxable status date of March 1. Julie Cecchini is the assessor for both Shelby and Ridgeway.
“Our seniors are feeling the pressure of higher prices everywhere – from groceries to utilities,” said Marguerite Sherman, mayor of the Village of Medina. “By taking action under Section 467, the Village is using every tool available to help ease that burden and ensure residents can afford to stay in the homes and community they love.”
Sherman emphasized that affordability must remain a priority as costs continue to rise.
“Affordability isn’t a buzzword – it’s a responsibility,” she added. “This exemption reflects deliberate action to support seniors and protect longtime residents from being priced out of Medina.”
Eligible residents are encouraged to pick up a form at the Village Clerk’s office, the Town of Ridgeway Assessor’s office, or on either website. Residents must file the application with the Assessor’s office by March 1, 2026.
The Bishop Nursing Home in Medina, Rose Villa Nursing Home in Albion, the Rembrandt Nursing Home in Kendall are but a few of the Orleans County facilities that provided residential care for elderly and incapacitated patients from the 1930s to the 1970s.
MEDINA – As the cost of living continues to rise, the Village of Medina is highlighting its Senior Citizen Property Tax Exemption as an important way to help older residents remain in their homes and manage increasing expenses.
