Residents speak out about no parking on Ohio Street in Medina

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 19 May 2026 at 2:56 pm

Photo by Tom Rivers: The Village of Medina recently put up “No Parking” signs on Ohio Street and that has concerned many of the residents who don’t have big enough driveways for friends and family to stop by.

MEDINA – Signs recently went up on Ohio Street saying “No Parking” and that’s for both sides of the street.

The Village Board on Nov. 24 approved no parking on the street after a resident said people parking on the street often trapped him in his driveway and made it difficult to see and maneuver traffic.

But at Monday’s meeting, other residents said they didn’t know the no parking regulation was even being considered, or they would have spoken out at the public hearing.

Patricia Stacey said not allowing parking will force many older people who may have mobility issues to park on other streets and then walk to Ohio Street. Stacey said the sidewalks are in rough shape in parts of the area.

Stacey doesn’t have a garage or a double driveway so shifting around cars for her family will be a “nuisance” if they can’t park one briefly on the street.

“This is not New York City,” she said. “It’s Medina.”

Two other residents said the parking ban makes it difficult for them if they need to shuffle cars in their driveway and can’t park on the street.

Jessica Whitehair also submitted a petition to allow on-street parking on Ohio Street.

“This situation is particularly difficult for those living in apartments and households with limited driveway space,” she wrote in her petition. “The lack of street parking impacts the quality of life for many residents. Without easy access to parking, families may struggle with bringing groceries, lawn care, managing daily errands, or hosting social gatherings. The lack of street parking also compromises the safety of children as they are getting to and from vehicles and homes. Elderly and mobility-impaired residents are especially disadvantaged, as they might find it more difficult to walk from distant parking spots to their homes.”

Matt Anelli lives on Ohio Street and he supports the parking ban. He said Ohio Street is narrow, especially in the winter. If people park on the street it’s hard to get out of his driveway, he said.

There used to be a 2-hour limit on the street, but those limits can be difficult to enforce, village officials said.

Fire Chief Steve Cooley said there shouldn’t be parking allowed close to the intersection on Ohio Street because cars in the street would make it difficult for fire trucks to make the turn.

The Village Board will have a new public hearing at 6 p.m. on June 22 to repeal the law passed in November and change the street to parking on the west side of the street only.

Kendall is Class C2 baseball tourney No.1 seed

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 19 May 2026 at 2:37 pm

Coming off a 17-2 regular season, Kendall has earned the No. 1 seed for the up coming Section V Class C2 baseball tournament.

The Eagles will host a quarterfinal round game at 5 p.m. Friday against the winner of Wednesday’s opening round game between No. 9 Dundee/Bradford and No. 8 Byron-Bergen.

Lyndonville is seeded No. 8 for the Class D tournament. The Tigers will host No. 9 CG Finney at 5 p.m. Thursday.

Lady Tigers are No. 1 seed for Class D2

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 19 May 2026 at 12:58 pm

Lyndonville has earned the No.1 seed for the up coming Section V Class D2 softball tournament.

The Lady Tigers, which posted a 16-1 regular season record, will host a quarterfinal round game on Friday against the winner of Wednesday’s first round contest between No.9 Jasper-Troupsburg and No. 8 Hinsdale.

Kendall is seeded No. 3 in Class C2. The Lady Eagles will host a quarterfinal round game on Saturday against the winner of Thursday’s first round contest between No. 11 Byron-Bergen and No. 6 Bloomfield.

Holley is seeded No. 14 in Class C1 and will visit Genesee Region League foe No. 4 Pembroke on Thursday.

Times for the sectional games have not been announced.

Medina fire truck officially for sale at $2.4 million

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 19 May 2026 at 12:54 pm

Photo from shopgarage.com: Medina’s ladder truck is shown on an online site that sells fire trucks, emergency vehicles and equipment.

MEDINA – The Village of Medina’s ladder truck is officially for sale. It was listed this morning on an online site that sells fire trucks and other emergency vehicles and equipment.

The website, shopgarage.com, lists the 2025 quint fire truck with a 100-foot ladder for $2.4 million. That is about $700,000 more than Medina’s deal for the truck. Medina in March 2023 agreed to pay $1,698,995.

The Village Board on Feb. 9 voted to declare the truck surplus, to begin the process of selling it.

Medina is working with a broker at shopgarage.com to get a big exposure for the truck, trying to get the biggest price possible, said Scott Bieliski, a Medina trustee. The broker gets a 5 percent fee or $120,000 if the truck sells for $2.4 million.

There is a lot of interest in the truck, Bieliski said during Monday’s Village Bord meeting. He said a contingent from Rochester, Minnesota was in Medina on Friday to look over the ladder truck.

Three of the five board members on Feb. 9 voted to declare the truck surplus, saying the village can’t afford the truck and an addition on the fire hall to house it.

Shop Garage lists the following about the truck:

2025 Pierce Enforcer Quint
Located in NY
1,095 miles
Brand new, never used
100’ Heavy-Duty Steel Aerial Platform
Engine: PACCAR MX-13
Horsepower: 510 hp
Front Suspension: TAK-4 Independent
Rear Suspension Air
Waterous Midship 2000 GPM pump
300 gallon tank
Harrison Hydraulic 10 kW generator

The fire truck is currently being kept in the DPW garage but will soon be moved to the compost facility on North Gravel Road. The DPW garage is busy with a lot of vehicles coming and going this time of year, said Jason Watts, the DPW superintendent.

White Birch and Banes score softball wins

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 19 May 2026 at 9:37 am

White Birch edged Jr. Wilson 10-7 and Banes downed Parkitects 21-6 in Medina Women’s Softball League action Monday evening.

White Birch 10, Junior Wilson 7
White Birch had 16 hits and Junior Wilson 8.

Leading the charge for the former Lyndonville grads were Morgan Ralph with 4 hits -including a triple, double and 2 singles. Ella Lewis, Maddy Boyle, Stacy Buckland, Rebekah Hoffee all finished with two hits and Kenzie Muck , a double .

For Junior Wilson’s. Jodi Zacher and Jenn Thom both had 2hits.

Banes 21, Parkitects 6
Banes broke the game open early scoring 5 runs in the first inning and 11 in the second.

Jami Chatt had an RBI triple, Rileigh McCabe an RBI double and Kathy Allen a two-run single in the first inning. Patti Page and Morgan Allis then both had RBI doubles in the second inning as Page, Amy Lavender, Allis and Allen all had RBI singles. Chatt and Connie Heschke also both had a pair of singles during the big inning as Adrianna Long and Sue Seefeldt each had 1.

Chatt, Allis and McCabe each finished with 2 singles and a double, Page a single and 2 doubles, and Allen Lavender and Seefeldt with 3 singles each.

Grace Capstick and Lorelei Sanders both had doubles for Parkitects as Bree Smith had 3 singles and Teanna Church 2.

For Women Only event will honor longtime nurse Darlene Zeliff

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 19 May 2026 at 9:33 am

Darlene Zeliff

MEDINA – This year’s For Women Only, sponsored by Orleans Community Health, will honor a longtime nurse, who passed away from cancer.

Darlene Zeliff, who gave more than 40 years of compassionate service, left a lasting impact on the hospital and the community, said Scott Robinson, director of marketing at Orleans Community Health.

For Women Only is an empowering evening focused on cancer education, support, wellness and connection, and will take place June 2 at White Birch Golf Course in Lyndonville, beginning at 5 p.m.

The annual event brings together survivors, caregivers, healthcare professionals, families, and community members for meaningful conversations surrounding cancer awareness, advocacy, treatment, grief, healing and life after diagnosis.

“This year’s event is especially meaningful as we honor Darlene Zeliff,” said Kimberly Gray, chief nursing officer and director of surgical services at Medina Memorial Hospital. “For more than 40 years, Darlene devoted her life to nursing and to this hospital. She represented the very best of nursing through her compassion, quiet leadership and unwavering dedication to her patients, coworkers and community. Her impact on generations of families and healthcare professionals will never be forgotten.”

The evening will feature speakers sharing personal experiences and insights on topics including detection and diagnosis, treatment and health advocacy, moving forward after treatment and grief and loss.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a panel discussion with healthcare and wellness professionals, visit vendors offering health and cancer support resources and enjoy special features, including basket raffles, networking opportunities and community support connections. There will also be light food served and a cash bar.

Organizers say the goal of the event is to create a welcoming environment where education, encouragement and shared experiences can empower individuals and families affected by cancer.

Community members are encouraged to attend this inspiring evening of education, remembrance and support.

For questions or to donate a basket, contact Lori Condo at (585) 798-2000.

More information is also available by clicking here.

Dubby’s Tailgate to close in Albion on May 30

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 19 May 2026 at 9:24 am

Alexander family will continue food truck business

Photos by Tom Rivers: Rebecca and Brian Alexander are shown with one of their games – “soccer pool” – offered at Dubby’s Tailgate at 165 Platt St. in Albion. Dubby’s featured many backyard or tailgate games at a 10,000 square-foot warehouse, and hosted many cornhole tournaments.

ALBION – Dubby’s Tailgate, which has hosted many cornhole tournaments and community fundraisers the past five years, will be closing on May 30 “due to circumstances beyond our control,” the Alexander family posted on Facebook.

Rebecca and Brian Alexander opened Dubby’s in 2021, and turned a 10,000-square-foot warehouse into an “eater-tainment” business. They served up food cooked in a wood-fired oven while offering many backyard and tailgate games in the warehouse.

They opened Dubby’s after running a food truck for three years. Dubby’s Wood Fired Pizza will continue as a mobile business, the family said.

“We are incredibly grateful for every single person who supported us, shared a meal with us, and became a part of the Dubby’s family,” the Alexander family stated. “We’ve made memories that will last a lifetime.”

They will be offering some closing specials in the coming days.

“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you from the entire Dubby’s family,” the Alexanders said. “We don’t see this as a goodbye, but rather a ‘see you later’ on the road!”

The mascots from McDonald’s, Grimace and Hamburglar, greeted kids inside Dubby’s on Oct. 9, 2025 for Family Game Night. There were 472 people registered, and the total attendance was likely even closer to 500. That is the most in the 11 years of Family Game Night. Dubby’s hosted many community events in the past five years.

Provided photo: Dubby’s Tailgate owners Rebecca Alexander, left, and Brian Alexander, right, are joined by American Cornhole League champions Miranda Coy and Lori Dool during a tournament on March 22, 2025. Dubby’s brought 108 teams to the area for the tournament. The 216 total players made it the biggest tournament so far for Dubby’s.

Many of the players came from outside Orleans County, including some American Cornhole league pros and the two top-ranked female players. Dool is a graduate of Lockport High School who now resides in Delray Beach, FL. Many of her family members came to Dubby’s in Albion to see her play in person.

More than 1,000 people went through Dubby’s on Jan. 27, 2024 at a benefit for Saul Harrison. Harrison was fighting myeloma, a cancer of the plasma cells.

There was a big turnout for Harrison, who is still remembered as a powerful football player for Albion. But the 1992 graduate these days is known for his mild manner and gentleness as a youthcare worker for the county and a deacon at the Shiloh Church.

Dubby’s hosted many other benefits for the community.

Voters go to polls today for school budgets in Orleans County

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 19 May 2026 at 8:32 am

Propositions, candidates for Board of Education also on ballot

It’s school election day in Orleans County and around the state. Voters will cast ballots on proposed budgets, propositions and candidates for the Board of Education.

Here is a rundown from each district in Orleans County:

ALBION – The school district’s proposed 2026-27 budget will again be holding the line on property taxes, the 18th time in the past 20 years without a tax increase.

Registered voters in the Albion school district will go to the polls from noon to 8 p.m. at the Hoag Library, 134 South Main St. A district art show will also be on display at the library during the vote.

The district is proposing a $45,615,036 budget, which is up 1.93 percent or $864,551 from the current budget. The tax levy will stay at $8,449,039, which is $359,906 under the district’s tax cap.

The vote today includes proposition one for the budget and proposition two to allow spending $1.5 million for buses.
Proposition three allows the district to collect $687,760 for Hoag Library.

There are also three candidates for three seats on the Board of Education. The two candidates with the most votes get five-year terms while the candidate with the third most votes gets a one-year term.

The candidates include: Kaitlyn Panek, Jaime Allport and Michelle Waters.

HOLLEY – The school district is proposing a $32,687,000 budget that increases spending by 6.2 percent and would raise taxes by 2.5 percent. The budget is up by $1,913,000 from the current $30,774,000. The budget maintains all existing programs.

Voters will go to the polls from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on May 19 at the Holley Middle/High School.

The district will collect $201,768 more in property taxes – from $8,070,702 to $8,272,470. That is under Holley’s allowable tax cap of 4.112 percent, school officials said the district’s budget newsletter. Holley is under the tax cap by $130,100.

The tax levy is up to account for increases in contractual and inflationary costs, and “allows us to deliver high quality instructional and extracurricular programs that are expected in our community while remaining fiscally responsible and aligned with our long-term district goals,” school officials said.

In addition to the budget, there are four propositions:

Proposition 2 authorizes replacement school buses – one large and one small with a wheelchair lift ($374,000)
Proposition 3 allows district to collect $217,703 for the Community Free Library
Proposition 4 authorizes the purchase of a vacant lot adjacent to Woodlands soccer field ($12,500)
Proposition 5 authorizes the establishment of a Capital Improvements Reserve Fund that will not exceed $10 million

There are also three candidates seeking three seats on the Board of Education. The two candidates with the most votes get three-year terms while the one with the third most votes gets a one-year term. The three-year terms begin July 1, while the shorter term starts May 20 because it’s filling a vacancy.

The candidates on the ballot include: Cecelia Pacheco Stevens, Eric DiLella and Janet Klossner.

KENDALL – The school district is proposing a $23,469,328 budget to the community. Kendall’s budget would raise taxes by 3.15 percent – from $5,162,224 to $5,324,835, an increase of $162,611.

The vote will be from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the Kendall Town Hall on May 19.

Kendall school leaders say many factors are driving the $2,045,169 budget increase for 2026-27: inflation, special education enrollments, instructional operation enhancements, shared services with BOCES, debt service, benefits, salaries, and minimum wage increases.

The debt service increased by 47.7 percent or $1,124,632 because Kendall will be issuing debt during June 2026 to pay for current capital project costs. However, this will be offset by a corresponding increase in building and transportation aid.

Kendall is using $150,000 more from its fund balance to lessen the need on property taxes, school officials state in the district’s budget newsletter.

State aid at $16,004,160 covers 68 percent of the school budget. The tax rate is projected at $10.29 per $1,000 of assessed property, which Kendall officials say in one of the lowest school tax rates in the area.

In addition to the budget, voters will be presented a proposition to use up to $390,000 from the vehicle capital reserve fund to purchase vehicles in the transportation program for the district, including passenger buses.

There are also two candidates for one five-year term on the Board of Education: Christa Bowling and David Warren.

LYNDONVILLE – The school district is presenting a $19,194,000 budget to the public. The budget increases spending by 9.8 percent or by $1,719,670 from the $17,474,330 in 2025-26.

The tax levy will increase by 2.5 percent from $4,758,692 to $4,877,659.

Voting will be from noon to 8 p.m. at Stroyan Auditorium Foyer.

The budget includes an increase in state aid from $12,113,808 to $13,375,309. The district also plans to use more reserve funds – from $495,220 to $746,032.

There are other propositions on the ballot:

Purchase one standard 64 passenger bus through Transportation Vehicle Reserve funds at a maximum of $192,000
Funding for Yates Community Library at $153,345 (up from the current $146,722)
Board of Education – Dana Goetze is the lone candidate on the ballot for a three-year term.

MEDINA – School officials have put together a $47,998,851 proposed budget for the 2026-27 school year.

District residents will go to the polls from noon to 8 p.m. in the Oak Orchard Primary School Gymnasium, 335 West Oak Orchard St.

The budget increases spending by 2.89 percent from the current $46,648,693. The tax levy, what the district collects in property taxes, would increase by 1.97 percent – from $9,170,809 to $9,351,474. The budget is again under the tax cap – for the 17th straight year.

State and federal aid are at $36,556,210 and covers 76.2 percent of the budget. Property taxes represent 19.5 percent of the budget.

School officials provided these highlights of the budget: Maintaining all existing programs, sports and extracurricular activities; continued commitment to providing school supplies for all students; review of current and future contractual obligations; purchases 2 full-sized buses and one half-sized bus; support for district strategic priorities; providing students with the most up-to-date programming and facilities; development of a new 5-year staffing plan; use of available reserves and fund balance to balance the budget

There are three candidates for three open seats on the Board of Education: Steven Blount, LuAnn Tierney and Mackenzie Sullivan.

Barker earns its second N-O tennis title

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 18 May 2026 at 8:53 pm

Barker completed just its second ever Niagara-Orleans League championship tennis season by downing Roy-Hart 4-1 this afternoon.

Barker, whose only other N-O tennis title came in 2009, finishes in a share of first place with Wilson at 11-1.

Daniel Goodwin completed a 12-0 season at first singles for Barker as did Colin Cousins at second singles for Roy-Hart.

Barker swept the three doubles matches with wins by the duos of Luke Fay – Oscar Dergel, Aurora Wass – Nick Heideman and Aaden Munn – Matthew Meza Ray.

Wilson closed ot the season with a 5-0 win over Akron.

Medina split a doubleheader with Newfane by the identical score of 3-2.

River Jones and Talia Rupp scored singles wins in both matches for Medina which also got a win by the doubles team of Levon Fuller – Paisley Pasnik.

Lacrosse
Starpoint 18, Medina 1
Starpoint downed visiting Medina 18-1 in a regular season ending interdivisional lacrosse game this evening.

The Spartans built up an 8-0 half-time advantage.

Gavin Dahlhaus scored the Medina goal off an assist from Landan Costich.

Lady Tigers cap off G-R softball season with a doubleheader sweep; Kendall tops Aquinas

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 18 May 2026 at 8:21 pm

Lyndonville closed out the Genesee Region League softball season by scoring a doubleheader sweep today at Elba.

The Lady Tigers first rallied past Elba 7-5 and then downed Notre Dame 15-3 to finish the regular season with a 13-1 league record and a 16-1 overall mark.

Lyndonville 7, Elba 5
Trailing 5-0, Lyndonville began to battle back by scoring twice in the third inning on an RBI single by Brooke Robinson and an RBI triple by winning pitcher Arnie Sturtevant.

The Lady Tigers then rallied into the lead for good at 6-5 by scoring 4 times in the fifth frame on an RBI double by Isabella Groves, RBI singles by Hannah Fox and Braelynn Dillenbeck and an error.

Brooke Robinson also tacked on an RBI double in the sixth inning.

In the circle, Sturtevant scattered 7 hits and struck out 6.

Lyndonville 15, Notre Dame 3
Two big scoring innings powered Lyndonville past Notre Dame 15-3.

Lyndonville erupted for 7 big runs in the first inning highlighted by a two-run triple by Morgan Woodworth.

The Lady Tigers later locked up the win with an 8 run fifth inning which included a two-run single by Alexa Robinson and RBI doubles by Fox and Dillenbeck and RBI singles by Brooke Robinson and Rylan Townsend.

Dillenbeck finished with 3 hits as Alexa Robinson, Brooke Robinson, Fox and Townsend each had 2.

Sturtevant hurled a 4 hitter with 8 strikeouts.

Kendall 7, Aquinas 4
Kendall scored 4 times in the seventh inning on a two-run error and a pair of bases loaded walks to lock up the 7-4 non league win over Aquinas and complete a 13-7 regular season.

The Lady Eagles also got a two-run triple by Sophia Picardo in the fourth inning.

Alea Barrett and Brooke Rodas both had a pair of hits for the Lady Eagles.

Kendall romps in G-R diamond finale; Medina drops narrow non league decision at Nichols

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 18 May 2026 at 7:18 pm

Cheryl Wertman File Photo – Nic Cole

Kendall wrapped up the Genesee Region League baseball season on a high note by romping past Byron-Bergen 16-1 this afternoon.

A quartet of pitchers including Nic Cole, Andrew Cole, Sammy Conte and Jacob Abrams combined to hurl a 2 hitter with 7 strikeouts for the Eagles. Nic Cole, who hurled the first two innings, struck out 3 and became the Eagles career strikeout leader with 277.

Jonny Conte, Vinnie D’Agostino, Sammy Conte, Luca D’Agostino and Abrams each banged out a pair of hits to lead the Eagles at the plate.

Kendall moved on top to stay by scoring 4 quick runs in the first inning as Sammy Conte and Abrams both had RBI singles. A single by Jonny Conte and a double by Vinnie D’Agostino ignited the uprising.

Keeping the momentum, the Eagles added 5 runs in the second as Sammy Conte had a two-run single. Singles by CJ D’Agostino and Vinnie D’Agostino and a walk set up the opportunity.

Abrams also had a two-run double and Luca D’Agostino an RBI single in the third.

Kendall finishes the regular season at 12-1 in G-R action and 17-2 overall.

Nichols 4, Medina 3
A last inning rally fell just short as Medina dropped a 4-3 decision at Nichols in a non league game this afternoon.

Trailing 4-2, Medina scored once in the top of the seventh on an RBI sacrifice fly by Vinny Gray, which followed a single by Carlos Doval and a sacrifice bunt by Jacob Duffina. However, the Mustangs could not plate the equalizer as they left runners standed at second and third.

Medina, which had a 15 game win streak snapped, also scored twice in the first inning on an RBI triple by Aidan Papaj and a wild pitch.

Nichols scored all 4 of its runs in the third inning on a double, 4 singles, an error and a walk.

Tonawanda 13, Barker 3
Leading by a narrow 3-2 margin, Tonawanda erupted for 8 runs in the third inning on 6 singles and a pair of errors to key a 13-3 non league win over Barker.

Roy-Hart superintendent nominated for ‘Excellence in Leadership Award’

Posted 18 May 2026 at 4:13 pm

Press Release, Roy-Hart Central School

Roy-Hart Superintendent Jill Heck: Photo by Rich Leader

MIDDLEPORT – Jill Heck, superintendent of the Royalton-Hartland Central School District, has been nominated for the 2026 Excellence in Leadership Award by the New York State Council of School Superintendents.

The nomination spotlights her leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to the children and families of Western New York.

The NYS Council of School Superintendents is a statewide professional organization representing public school superintendents.

With nearly 700 superintendents across New York State, the award process is highly competitive. This year, 20 nominations were received, with just four individuals ultimately selected. The selection committee emphasized that Heck’s nomination stood out and made a lasting impression.

Now serving her fourth year as district superintendent, Heck has demonstrated bold, systems-level leadership that has expanded educational opportunities throughout the district.

Under her leadership, Royalton-Hartland has strengthened agricultural education programming across all grade levels in the district and supported the development of a state-of-the-art Agriculture Land Lab, where students can engage in applied STEM learning, environmental sustainability, entrepreneurship, leadership development, and community engagement.

The program has earned statewide recognition as an Outstanding Agricultural Secondary Education Program, with students achieving success at the National FFA Convention, including first-place national honors and multiple American FFA Degrees.

Heck’s leadership extends beyond academics. In response to a regional childcare shortage, she fostered partnerships with community stakeholders in an effort to support working families by increasing access to much needed early childcare service. Additionally, she helped to secure nearly $236,000 in federal funding to enhance district-wide safety infrastructure and emergency preparedness.

Regionally, Heck plays a key role in advancing professional development through the Erie-Niagara School Superintendents Association, uplifting superintendents across multiple counties and strengthening executive leadership practice.

Mrs. Heck’s leadership is comprehensive, measurable, and transformative, resulting in the advancement of workforce-aligned programming, expanding family support, securing critical funding, and elevating leadership across Western New York. She represents the very best of innovative educational leadership in New York State.

Another oversize load going from Albion to Byron on Wednesday

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 18 May 2026 at 3:50 pm

Photo by Tom Rivers: A transformer is moved on a large trailer last Wednesday. This photo was taken when the oversize load was on Allen Road before turning onto Route 98. The transformer was taken to Byron for a solar power project.

ALBION – Another oversize load will be moved from Albion to Byron on Wednesday, a week after State Police provided an escort for a transformer for a solar project.

The load will be moved from 9 a.m. to approximately 2 p.m., starting again by the railroad tracks on Hamilton Street in Albion. The load heads south to Allen Road, then east to Route 98.

It will then go south through Albion, Barre and to Lockport Road in Elba. It then goes east on North Byron Road to Searls Road to Tower Hill Road and then Byron Road in Byron.

“The width of this load will obstruct oncoming traffic,” State Police said in a media advisory. “The height of this load will necessitate the lifting of most overhead wires and traffic control devices. The load will move into oncoming traffic to avoid overhead obstructions.”

The weight of the load will keep speeds to around 5 to 10 miles per hour with many stoppages.

Route 98 will be closed for an undisclosed amount of time to all traffic from Old Orchard Road to Lockport Road, State Police said.

“It is recommended that if you encounter this load, move to the shoulder of the roadway, into a driveway or parking lot or seek an alternate route of travel to your destination,” State Police said. “Lower your window and follow directions from State Police or escort vehicles.”

Medina will host Tonawanda in Section VI Class D lacrosse playoff opener Wednesday

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 18 May 2026 at 2:56 pm

Seeded No. 8, Medina will open Section VI Class D lacrosse playoff action by hosting No. 9 Tonawanda in a pre-quarterfinal round game at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday at Vets Park.

Medina went 2-7 in the D Division and 2-11 overall during the regular season while Tonawanda was 1-8, 2-13.

The Mustangs downed the Timberwolves 5-2 in the season opener.

The victor will visit top seeded East Aurora in the quarterfinals on Friday.

The other Class D pre-quarterfinal game will have No. 10 Newfane (0-9, 0-13) at No. 7 Depew (4-5, 5-11) at 6 p.m. Tuesday. The winner will visit No. 2 Akron on Friday.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and many services are available locally

Posted 18 May 2026 at 2:13 pm

Press Release, Orleans County Department of Mental Health

ALBION – The month of May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month and the Orleans County Department of Mental Health is taking the opportunity to work with their local, regional and national partners to promote the many mental services available to residents.

“It is important that we are always talking about mental health and the services and supports available, as it is an effort to reduce stigma and reinforce the importance of reaching out for help for anyone who is experiencing a mental health challenge or are in emotional distress,” said Danielle Figura, Director of Orleans County Mental Health & Community Services.

Figura said drawing attention to mental health awareness begins with promoting the county’s Care and Crisis Helpline (585) 283-5200 and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 988. Both the local and National helpline are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

“The Care & Crisis Helpline and 988 are just a phone call away when we find ourselves, a family member, neighbor, or friend experiencing emotional distress whether its depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma or any other need that may be interfering with emotional wellbeing,” said Figura. “We want the people to know they are not alone.”

Figura said locally in Orleans County, there are many mental health supports and resources available to the residents of Orleans County. “These programs and services exist to support individuals and their families so if you feel you or someone you know may need assistance, please reach out to these resources for information and support.”

In collaboration with the Genesee/Orleans Health Department, Orleans County launched the Credible Mind Online Platform in 2026. This online self-directed learning and resource platform allows individuals to explore opportunities to improve their overall wellbeing, but specifically provides online education, support, and resource referrals to promote someone’s mental health wellness. Orleans County residents can access this resource at https://genesee-orleansny.crediblemind.com/

Orleans County Mental Health Department (click here)

New York State Office of Mental Health Licensed Article 31 Outpatient Clinic Treatment Programs offering individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy and psychiatric services (to include psychiatric evaluation, psychiatric monitoring, and pharmacology). Open Access Hours for New Clients are Monday – Friday at 12:30 p.m.
New York State Office of Mental Health Licensed Article 31 Outpatient Clinic Satellite Sites at UConnect Care and Orleans County School Districts offering individual therapy at those host locations.
Health Home Care Management Programs serving both youths and adults. A program under New York State Department of Health, which looks to connect individuals to additional supports and resources to promote overall physical and emotional health wellness.

Crisis Supports & Resources

The Care & Crisis Helpline (585) 283-5200 serving Orleans County residents for any immediate mental health crisis needs 24 hrs/day, 7 days/wk, 365 days/year.
988” National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or Text 988, Connect via chat at 988Lifeline.org or visit 988Lifeline.org for more resources.
Rochester Psychiatric Center MIT Team (mobile integration team) – Serves Adults only and is available Monday – Friday during business hours. Providing in home, community-based assessments, outreach and engagement efforts. Requests for the RPC MIT Team can be made through the Care & Crisis Helpline at (585) 283-5200.

Additional Programs & Resources

Mental Health Association of Genesee & Orleans Counties. Serving adults in Orleans County, through programs to include the Warm Line, Transportation, and Drop-In-Center https://mhago.org/
Oak Orchard Health https://oakorchardhealth.org/