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Month: March 2013

Our Letters Policy

Posted 24 October 2023 at 3:00 pm

We appreciate input from our readers, and we publish letters to the editor without charge. The letters should be written by the person who submits the letter and not be “ghost written” by someone else. While open speech and responsibility are encouraged, comments may be rejected if they are purely a personal attack, offensive or repetitive. Comments are the opinions of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Orleans Hub. Although care is taken to moderate comments, we have no control over how they are interpreted and we are unable to guarantee the accuracy of comments and the rationality of the opinions expressed. We reserve the right to edit letters for content and brevity. Please limit the length of your letter (we suggest no more than 500 words) and provide your name, telephone number, mailing address and a verifiable email address for verification purposes. Letters should be emailed to news@orleanshub.com.

Some residents have misgivings about beer tent at July 4th in Lyndonville

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 13 May 2024 at 5:40 pm

LYNDONVILLE – The upcoming Independence Day celebration in Lyndonville, the 50th anniversary bash to be put on by the Lyndonville Lions Club, will include a beer tent at the end of the parking lot behind the town hall.

Some residents shared their concerns about the beer tent during last Thursday’s Town Board meeting.

Bob DeMallie said he would rather alcohol not be available for Lyndonville’s biggest celebration of the year, when thousands of people come to the village for a parade, music, a craft show and fireworks.

“It’s a family-friendly day and this will create nothing but problems,” DeMallie said about the beer tent.

Another resident, Sandy Lauricella, questioned why have a beer tent when there are businesses nearby that serve alcohol.

The board during a Dec. 28 meeting approved use of a designated space for the beer tent as long as the Lions Club made sure “safe and reasonable operational considerations and measures are taken (i.e., hours of operation, security, responsible alcohol consumption, cleanup).”

Harold Suhr and Sue Hrovat are both Town Board members and on the Lions Club. Suhr said the intent of the beer tent is to have a centralized place for people to have alcohol, rather than where many now are spread out on the festival grounds often with beer and alcohol in coolers.

And with the beer tent, the Lions Club should make some money “to do more things for the community,” Suhr said.

Hrovat said she didn’t want a beer tent, but the club has compromised, moving it away from the original goal of having it near the bus garage to farther away from the main festival grounds at the town parking lot.

The beer tent will be surrounded with a 6-foot-high fence, with one way in and one way out and security. It will be available from 2 to 8 p.m.

Town Supervisor Jim Simon said other community events offer beer tents, including the Kendall Carnival.

“We’ll be definitely watching to see how this goes,” he said about the beer tent debut at the Fourth of July. “There will be some controls.”

Yates officials share details about upcoming special election on land purchase for expanded park

The Town of Yates has posted this map on its website showing 153.3 acres of land the town wants to acquire to expand its park near Lake Ontario.

Posted 13 May 2024 at 5:26 pm

Press Release, Yates Town Board

LYNDONVILLE – The Town of Yates will be holding a special election to decide whether or not the Town Board should be authorized to purchase NYS Electric and Gas (NYSEG) land to expand the Yates Town Park on Lake Ontario.

The vote will take place on Thursday, June 20, from noon to 8 p.m., at the Yates Town Hall, 8 S. Main St.

The ballot referendum will read: “Utilizing grant funds, shall the Town of Yates be authorized to purchase 153.3 acres from NYSEG for $700,000 to expand the Yates Town Park?  YES or NO”

“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to expand the town park as it was originally envisioned 25 years ago,” said Russ Martino, the former town supervisor responsible for obtaining the original 6-acres of the current park.

He emphasized that from the beginning the planning efforts have called for a much larger park.

“Our original 2002 Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) and our 2003 Western Orleans Comprehensive Plan (WOCP) strongly supported a 120-acre park,” he said.

According to Jim Simon, the current town supervisor, the updated LWRP is at the NYS Department of State for final review, and it includes the Yates Town Park expansion goal.  “In addition to the LWRP, our 2019 update to the WOCP, which included a survey of town residents and two public hearings, features a primary goal of expanding the Yates Town Park,” he said.

Only Town of Yates registered voters will be allowed to vote in the special election. The registration deadline with Orleans County Board of Elections is May 28.  Absentee ballot applications must be requested from the Yates Town Clerk no later than May 28, and absentee ballots must be postmarked to the Yates Town Clerk no later than June 20.

There will be two public meetings open to all and attended by town board members to discuss the proposal and to answer questions: Thursday, June 6, at 7 p.m. at the Yates Town Hall; and Saturday, June 15, at 10 a.m. at the Yates Town Park (north terminus of Morrison Road).

Details regarding the proposal – including an informational flyer, the final draft of the purchase agreement, and a map of the proposed expanded park – can be found at the town website: townofyates.org.

One of the important conditions in the purchase agreement is that the town has two years to obtain grant funding for the $700,000 purchase. If the town does not find grant funding for the purchase, the agreement is void and the town’s escrow will be returned.

“Even if we get the grant funding, does that mean there is no impact on the Yates’ taxpayers? No,” Simon said. “There will be some costs for environmental review of the land, for town insurance, and for upkeep.”

Many ideas have been suggested about what to do with the additional land, but according to Simon, two things are certain – that it will always remain parkland by virtue of the purchase agreement, and that any other development of the land (like a nature trail) would be based on the recommendations to the Town Board by a committee comprised of town staff and residents (to be formed should the voters approve the proposal).

Another factor town voters will need to weigh is whether or not the decrease in tax levy from NYSEG will be outweighed by the positive economic activities, the enhanced recreational opportunities, and the improved health benefits of people visiting an expanded park.

The Yates Town Board believes that increasing free public access to the wildlife, forest and natural Lake Ontario shoreline is worth the investment.

Supervisor Simon encourages people to attend the public forums, to email him (jamesjsimon11@gmail.com), or to call him (716-946-2075) to learn more about this proposal.

“This is not so much about us as it is about our children and grandchildren – it is a chance to preserve one of the last stretches of open space on Lake Ontario for all our current and future residents to enjoy,” he said.

Tenney holding mobile office hours throughout district on May 16, including in Shelby

Posted 13 May 2024 at 3:20 pm

Press Release, Congresswoman Claudia Tenney

Claudia Tenney

WASHINGTON, DC—Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today announced that her office will be hosting a district-wide day of constituent services, bringing personalized federal casework assistance directly to all 12 counties in New York’s 24th District.

A member of Tenney’s team of expert caseworkers will be on hand to assist constituents with a range of issues pertaining to federal agencies, including the Department of Veterans Affairs, Social Security Administration, Internal Revenue Service, and Passport Agency.

If you are interested in attending any of these mobile office hours or for more information, please contact one of Tenney’s district offices, the Lockport (716-514-5130), Victor (585-869-2060), and Oswego (315-236-7088) offices are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Mobile office hours will be available at the following times and locations on May 16:

Orleans County

10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Shelby Town Hall

4062 Salt Works Rd, Medina, NY 14103

Wayne County

9 a.m, to 11 a.m.

Savannah Town Clerk’s Office

1564 N Main St, Savannah, NY 13146

Genesee County

10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Genesee County Legislature Offices

7 Main Street Batavia, NY 14020

Seneca County

10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Ovid Clerk’s Office

2136 Brown Street, Ovid, NY 14521

Cayuga County

12 p.m. – 2 p.m.

Fair Haven Town Hall

14523 Cayuga Street, Fair Haven, NY 13064

Yates County

1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Yates County Clerk’s Office

417 Liberty Street, Penn Yan, NY 14527

Wyoming County

1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Village Hall of Wyoming

17 S Academy St, Wyoming, NY 14591

Livingston County

1:15 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.

Livonia Public Library, Hemlock Room

2 Washington St, Livonia, NY 14487

Jefferson County

3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Ellisburg Village Hall

11574 S Main Street, Ellisburg, NY 13636

Ontario County

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Victor District Office

7171 Pittsford-Victor Road, Victor, NY 14564

Oswego County

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Oswego District Office

46 E Bridge Street, Suite 102, Oswego, NY 13126

Niagara County

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Lockport District Office

169 Niagara Street, Lockport, NY 14094

Rankings put Orleans below average in state and nation for Health Factors

Posted 13 May 2024 at 2:57 pm

County does better in report on Health Outcomes

Chart from Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments

Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments

The 2024 County Health Rankings have been released and updated by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute (UWPHI).  The Rankings are available at www.countyhealthrankings.org.

“Each year we look at the County Health Rankings to get an overview of our health and factors that influence our health,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health). “This year the County Health Rankings have made some changes in reporting. Rather than ranking with specific numbers, the Rankings are looking at how each county fits in the scale from Healthiest in the United States to Least Healthiest in the U.S. The purpose of the annual data release is to help communities understand the many factors that influence health.”

The rankings are broken into two main categories: Health Outcomes, which include length of life and quality of life, and Health Factors, which include health behaviors, clinical care, social and economic factors and physical environment.

Genesee County is faring about the same as the average county in the state for Health Outcomes, and better than the average county in the nation. Orleans County is faring worse than the average county in NYS for Health Outcomes, and better than the average county in the nation. For Health Factors, Genesee is faring worse than the average county, and better than the average county in the nation. Orleans is faring worse than the average county in New York State and in the nation.

“As Chief Health Strategists, we collaborate with our partners and community members to provide quality training, education and referrals as well as develop coalitions to explore the best way to help our county residents thrive and improve health factors,” Pettit said.

As referenced in the chart above, both Genesee and Orleans counties have health factors that could be improved specifically with local access to physicians, mental health providers and dentists along with excessive drinking, adult obesity, and adult smoking. Access to care significantly impacts and drives the rankings for both counties. Additionally, it is a substantial barrier for residents and ultimately, has an impact on not only an individual’s physical, social, and mental health, but also their overall quality of life.

Some key areas of the 2024 County Health Rankings for Genesee and Orleans Counties are:

  • Genesee and Orleans are currently working on providing information and programming to decrease adult smoking (20% with New York at 12%) and adult obesity (40% with New York at 29%). GO Health is providing an awareness campaign in partnership with Tobacco Free GLOW on the impact smoking and vaping has on health.
  • Both counties are bringing back the National Diabetes Prevention Program by presenting the Lifestyle Change program. This is an evidence-based program developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to help individuals at-risk of or diagnosed with pre-diabetes to learn how to lower their risk of developing type 2 diabetes by making lifestyle changes over 26 one-hour sessions.

The Rankings have become an important tool for communities that want to improve health for all. Working collaboratively with community partners in Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming counties, Genesee and Orleans use the GOW 2022-2024 Community Health Assessment to choose the priorities for the Community Health Improvement Plan over the next three years.

We analyze the Rankings along with New York State data and community input from the Community Health Assessment survey and Community Conversations to determine these priorities. The 2022-2024 Community Health Improvement Plan priority areas are: prevent chronic disease, promote well-being, and prevent mental and substance use disorders.

For more information on Health Department programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org or call your respective health department at:

  • Orleans County: (585) 589-3278
  • Genesee County: (585) 344-2580 ext. 5555

Orchard Rehabilitation honors moms, celebrates Skilled Nursing Care Week

Photos by Ginny Kropf: (Left) Marguerite Sherman, mayor of Medina, reads a proclamation on Mothers’ Day at Orchard Rehabilitation and Nursing Facility, celebrating National Skilled Nursing Care Week. (Center) Jamie Murphy, activities director at Orchard Rehabilitation and Nursing Facility in Medina, chats with resident Kenny Draper, who reminisced about celebrating Mothers’ Day when his wife was alive. (Right) Orchard Rehabilitation and Nursing Facility honored mothers on Sunday with coffee and donuts. Clockwise from left front are activities aide Laurie Seager, activities director Jamie Murphy, and activities aides Melissa Gates and Tyesha Robinson.

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 13 May 2024 at 1:57 pm

MEDINA – Marguerite Sherman, the mayor of Medina, paid a visit to Orchard Rehabilitation and Nursing Facility on Mothers’ Day to read a proclamation proclaiming May 12 to 18 as National Skilled Nursing Care Week.

“I am so happy to have Orchard Manor here,” Sherman told the residents, before reading the proclamation.

The week’s theme this year, “Radiant Memorials: A Tribute to the Golden Age of Radio,” celebrates the rich tapestry of stories and experiences of those who reside and work within skilled nursing care centers, recalling an era cherished by many community elders, the proclamation states.

Sherman continued to read, “Skilled nursing care providers play a pivotal role in delivering compassionate care to America’s elderly and individuals with disabilities. This week serves as a testament to the essential role that skilled nursing care plays in our communities and in the lives of many individuals and their families.”

In celebration of Mothers’ Day, the facility served coffee and donuts to all residents and their visitors.

Resident Kenny Draper, 88, made sure to wish activities director Jamie Murphy a happy Mother’s Day. He said it wasn’t the same without his wife and he was missing her, but he thanked God for all the nurses.

“I’m still alive because of all of them,” he said.

Sherman and Murphy took the opportunity to talk about their memories of the facility.

Sherman recalled when Lois Hilger was activities director and her daughter and Sherman used to come in and play their flutes for the residents, while Hilger accompanied them on the piano. They were 12 years old, Sherman said.

Murphy announced she would retire from her position on June 14.

“I’ve been here almost 35 years, and it went so fast,” Murphy said. “Tom Morien hired me. There have been a lot of changes through the years.”

Murphy said in honor of National Skilled Nursing Care Week she solicited downtown businesses, who very generously donated gifts, which Murphy will give to staff. Events during the week include a coffee truck for staff today (Monday), and lunch on the grill.

Each day has a special theme. Today is “Rock Your Favorite T-shirt Day; Tuesday will be “Beach Day;” Wednesday is Resident and Staff Twin Day (a day to pair up and dress alike) and “Random Act of Kindness Day; Thursday will be Country Western Day with an ice cream social for residents and staff; and Friday will conclude the special activities with “Embrace Your Favorite Decade.”

Each day of the week will also feature different entertainment activities, beginning with karaoke on today, Magician Patrick Holman on Tuesday, bingo on Wednesday, the ice cream social on Thursday, music by Brian Beaudry on Friday and entertainment by the Hot Country Liners Dance Team on Saturday.

Orleans will host ‘Learn to Fish’ seminar for women on June 1

Photo courtesy of Orleans County Tourism: Anglers are at the Oak Orchard River in Orleans County at a spot that will host a Learn to Fish for Women Seminar hosted by Orleans County Tourism in partnership with New York Sea Grant and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife.

Posted 13 May 2024 at 12:55 pm

Press Release, Orleans County Tourism and New York Sea Grant

WATERPORT – Orleans County Tourism will host a “Learn to Fish Seminar” for women at St. Mary’s Archers Club along the Oak Orchard River in partnership with New York Sea Grant and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on June 1 from 1 to 4 p.m. The club is located on Clark Mills Road.

The seminar will focus on stream fishing basics, fly fishing and spin fishing techniques, angling safety, and fish biology; gear will be provided for use at the event. Space is limited to 20 women so each participant can receive individual attention. Participants can bring their own angling gear and must have a valid New York State Fishing License.

Register online (click here) to reserve your place or contact New York Sea Grant Great Lakes Fisheries and Ecosystem Health Specialist Stacy Furgal at 315-234-1329 or slf85@cornell.edu for assistance.

Orleans County Tourism Director Dawn Borchert participated in a New York Sea Grant Women Learn to Fish seminar in 2023 on Oneida Lake. She provides this preview of what participants may experience at the June 1 seminar in Orleans County.

“Orleans County is home to fantastic year-round fishing opportunities on our tributary waters that include Oak Orchard River, Johnson Creek, and Sandy Creek,” Borchert said. “The angling experiences here can be both relaxing and exhilarating with the diversity and productivity of the fishery of our tributaries and Lake Ontario.”

Holley grad, now at SUNY Brockport, awarded Rotary Scholarship

Staff Reports Posted 13 May 2024 at 11:12 am

Elise Quincey

HOLLEY – Elise Quincey, a 2023 Holley graduate, has been awarded a $1,000 scholarship through the Spencerport Rotary Club.

Quincey is the recipient of the 2024 Spencerport Rotary Scholarship in honor of Roger Ressman. Quincey is a sophomore at SUNY Brockport majoring in sustainability and minoring in political science. She plans to become a global sustainability advocate on graduation.

Elise served as president of the Holley Interact Club last year and has been involved in community events for several years. As a member of SUNY Brockport Rotaract, Quincey participated in leadership, team-building and community service activities including the annual Canal Clean-up in April.

A colleague states that Quincey “shows enthusiasm for making a positive impact on her small-town community and beyond…Elise aspires to work collaboratively with communities and policy makers to develop legislation that will support the protection of our planet, focus on ending poverty, and promote the well-being for people of all ages.”

The Spencerport Rotary Club took over the Brockport Rotary scholarship after Brockport Rotary folded about two years ago.

Second-graders at Oak Orchard Primary perform enthusiastic debut concert

Photo courtesy of Chris Busch: The Oak Orchard Auditorium stage was packed with over 100 second grade performers last Thursday.

Posted 13 May 2024 at 10:28 am

Courtesy of Chris Busch

MEDINA – “The weary world is always a better place when I hear the voices of young children lifted in song.”

Those were the thoughts of one and likely many more in the capacity crowd – more than 500 – attending last Thursday evening’s first annual 2nd Grade Spring Concert at Oak Orchard Primary School Auditorium in Medina.

Students from the entire 2nd grade class, numbering over 100, enthusiastically took turns reading aloud from Strictly No Elephants, a delightful children’s book authored by Lisa Mantchev and illustrated by Taeeun Yoo.

The stage was filled with the children of 2nd grade, flanking a huge screen center stage showing the pages of the illustrated book for the audience to see.

The book synopsis, according to goodreads.com states:

“Today is Pet Club day. There will be cats and dogs and fish, but strictly no elephants are allowed. The Pet Club doesn’t understand that pets come in all shapes and sizes, just like friends. Now it is time for a boy and his tiny pet elephant to show them what it means to be a true friend.

Imaginative and lyrical, this sweet story captures the magic of friendship and the joy of having a pet.”

The whimsical book reading was interspersed with four songs, perfectly performed again by the entire second grade under the direction of Mrs. Andrea Busch, Oak Orchard Primary School music teacher.

The selections included “With A Little Help From My Friends” by The Beatles, “Lean On Me” by Bill Withers, “Count On Me” by Bruno Mars, and “You’ve Got a Friend In Me” by Randy Newman.

At the end of the performance, students were excited to see the audience leap to their feet with a thunderous standing ovation. Wide eyes and bright smiles were seen all around.

“These 2nd graders are truly, truly a wonderful group!” said Mrs. Busch. “I’m so very proud of them!”

And at that moment in the auditorium, the world was definitely a better place.

Albion recognizes honor grads for Class of 2024

Press Release and photos from Albion Central School: The 21 honor grads, seniors with cumulative GPAs at 90 percent or higher, were recognized last Wednesday during an Honors Convocation.

Posted 13 May 2024 at 10:17 am

ALBION – Academic honors seniors were recognized Wednesday at the annual Honors Convocation.

Hosted in the elementary school gym this year, graduating seniors with a cumulative weighted grade point average of 90% or higher were recognized for their achievement in front of their families, administrators and board of education members.

2024 academic honors students include Sophia Albanese, Jason Anstey, Bailey Bergum, Kayla Burgio, Jett Conn, Skyler Draper, Autumn Flugel, Liana Flugel, Julia Fuller, Kevin He, Jonah Karnyski, Jordan Marshall, Finnegan McCue, Meganne Moore, Flynn Morrison, Ella Papponetti, Lucy Rivers, Jacqueline Santiago Garcia, Gina Sidari, Hailey Warren and Erin Weese.

Angel Rosario, a 2020 graduate, served as guest speaker. He is shown with senior class advisor Kathy Winans, left, and high school principal Jennifer Ashbery.

The honorees were called to the stage individually to receive their certificate and then were adorned with their honors cords from their parents/guardians.

Angel Rosario, a graduate from the Class of 2020, was the guest speaker for the evening. Rosario currently attends the nursing program at SUNY Brockport and will be graduating this May as a RN. He plans to pass his NCLEX and continue his education, becoming a certified nurse anesthetist.

Rosario also coaches a boys and girls soccer team for the Albion Soccer Club along with coaching soccer for Kendall High School. He also has started a clothing brand called “Soulfits” that focuses on empowerment, the importance of self-love, self-care, and positivity. The brand donates its profits to a severely ill person to help with the financial burden of medical costs.

Rosario’s words of wisdom for the Class of 2024: “As you embark on your journey beyond Albion High School, remember: embrace challenges, stay curious, and cherish friendships. Your potential is limitless and the world awaits your unique contribution.”

The Class of 2024 is set to graduate on June 28 with a rain date scheduled for June 29.

Murray fire district offering blood pressure screenings throughout year

Posted 13 May 2024 at 9:09 am

Press Release, Peter D. Hendrickson, Jr., Deputy Chief of Murray Joint Fire District

Provided photo: ShawnMarie Hendrickson checks the blood pressure of a man in Holley last year. The Murray Joint Fire District last year started several community blood pressure checks for the community.

HOLLEY – May is Blood Pressure Awareness Month and this is a great opportunity to emphasize the importance of monitoring and maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.

The Murray Joint Fire District is pleased to announce the teaming up with local community partners to promote cardiovascular health, through community blood pressure clinics. One of our missions is to provide accessible and high-quality care to our community and this is one way to aid in improving their cardiovascular health.

With heart disease and hypertension posing significant health risks to millions worldwide, it has become increasingly vital to offer convenient avenues for monitoring and managing blood pressure.

The members of the Murray Joint Fire District are dedicated to empowering individuals with the knowledge they need to take control of their heart health and reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease. By focusing on prevention and proactive management, we aim to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our patients and the broader community.

Together, we can work towards a future where heart disease is no longer a leading cause of illness and mortality.

The clinics will be held as follows:

Murray Joint Fire District Headquarters

7 Thomas Street

Holley, NY 14470

585-638-6884

The first Wednesday of the month from 1 to 3 p.m. (All year long)

Community Action, Eastern Orleans Community Center

75 Public Square

Holley, NY 14470

585-638-6395

The third Friday of the month from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. (All year long)

Big Guys Campgrounds

3739 Monroe-Orleans Countyline Rd.

Brockport, NY14420

585-638-2237

The third Saturday of the month from 1 to 2 p.m. (May 18 through October 19)

Red Rock Ponds – RV Resort

16097 Canal Rd.

Holley, NY 14470

585-638-2445

The third Saturday of the month from 11am-12pm. (May 18 through October 19)

For more information about our local clinic please call the firehouse at (585) 638-6884. To learn more about high blood pressure and the risk factors for stroke and heart disease, click here.

Museums help put focus on ‘communities and culture’ for Leadership Orleans

Photos by Marsha Rivers: Terry C. Abrams, curator and collections manager for the Niagara County History Museum, spoke last Thursday in the one-room schoolhouse that is part of the Cobblestone Museum.

Posted 13 May 2024 at 8:14 am

By Tom Rivers and Ginny Kropf

GAINES – Leadership Orleans spent Thursday touring local museums and cultural sites as part of a day-long focus on “Communities & Culture.”

The class with 28 students opened the day with breakfast at the Tavern on the Ridge, the former Tillman’s Village Inn before heading to the Cobblestone Museum.

Terry C. Abrams, a resident of the Tonawanda Indian Reservation, is also the co-chair of the Conference on Iroquois Research. His primary areas of interest include Native American history and historic photography.

He is speaking inside the District No. 5 school which was built in 1849. The school served District No. 5 for 103 years before it was closed in 1952 after the centralization of Albion’s school district.

In 1961, it was sold to the Cobblestone Society Museum for $129. Volunteers re-shingled the roof, repainted the exterior woodwork, built additional desks to duplicate original pieces within the building, and worked to furnish the schoolhouse with period items. In 2004, the belfry was restored to its pre-1930s design.

Bill Lattin, retired county historian and museum director, speaks inside the cobblestone church that was built in 1834, the oldest cobblestone church in North America.

The Cobblestone Society formed in 1960 to preserve the Cobblestone Universalist Church and District No. 5 Schoolhouse in Childs.

The Cobblestone Society and Museum has acquired other historic buildings near the intersection of routes 98 and 104 and is working to develop a visitors’ center.  The museum in 1993 was declared a National Historic Landmark, the first site in Orleans Ciunty with that distinction.

After the tour and discussion at the Cobblestone Museum, Leadership Orleans traveled to Medina for lunch at Harvest Restaurant in the restored Bent’s Opera House. The class heard presentation from Cindy Robinson, president of the Medina Area Partnership; and Gregory Hallock, executive director of GO Art!

The class then toured the Medina Historical Society and Medina Railroad Museum, both on West Avenue. The Medina Historical Society tour was led by Georgia Thomas, a board member, and Catherine Cooper, the county historian. Jeff Lewis, director of the Railroad Museum, welcomed the class to that site.

Leadershiop Orleans has graduated 149 people since the first class in 2018. The program aims to build the “citizen capital” of the community, helping develop leaders who are educated on the many facets of the community, from agriculture, non-profit organizations, government services, small and larger businesses, tourism, arts and culture, community health and economic development.

The class meets monthly, building leadership skills and gaining knowledge, experiences and meeting people from many different sectors in the community.

Photo by Ginny Kropf: Leadership Orleans visited the Medina Railroad Museum and listened to the museum’s plans from director Jeff Lewis.

Leadership Orleans visited the Medina Railroad Museum and toured the facility and learned about plans for the future.

“It was great to meet the new director and have a tour,” said Skip Helfrich, Leadership Orleans director. “In the seven years we done the Leadership program we’ve been there four times. I was impressed with the new covered area on the deck and their plans for the future. It was also clear from our visit that things in the museum had been improved upon and were more orderly than in the past.”

Museum director Jeff Lewis was also thrilled to participate with Leadership Orleans.

“I’m glad they accepted our invitation,” Lewis said. “Being able to explain the museum and having them see what we are all about is wonderful. The museum is a part of the non-profit community services here in Medina and all of Orleans County. It is a grand idea to have that leadership sharing plans, ideas and practices. We are community members, not islands unto our own. It is easy to get caught up in the businesses we are involved in and forget our duties to community. I personally hope this group will honor us as hosts every year in the future.

“As the museum spokesperson, I really appreciate being asked and like to see our space used, if possible, to host these functions,” Lewis added. “I hope we can build on this and further market our pavilion for groups as a meeting room.”

Medina Mustangs FC downs Wolverines

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 12 May 2024 at 6:50 pm

Getting goal production from four players, the Medina Mustangs FC downed the Wolverines United 6-2 in a Buffalo District Soccer League 2md Division game at Buffalo this afternoon.

Nate Dillenbeck led the Medina scoring parade with 3 goals as Elian Gonzalez, Steven Anderson and Trent Choate each netted 1.

Greg Husung dished out 3 assists and Ethan Leonard 1.

Now at 1-1, Medina next visits the Buffalo Cosmos next Sunday.

Lisa’s Dance Boutique owner takes a final bow after 47 years

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 12 May 2024 at 3:55 pm

Heather Kelley will take over dance studio in Holley with Lisa Bower-Logsdon to continue as teacher

Photos by Tom Rivers

HOLLEY – Lisa Bower-Logsdon is hugged by Kamryn Berner, one of her faculty choreographers, at the end of Saturday’s recital at the Holley Junior-Senior High School Auditorium. Heather Kelley, second from right, and Caitlin Milizia, the other choreographers on staff, move in to congratulate Bower-Logsdon on her 47-year career as the owner and dance instructor at Lisa’s Dance Boutique in Holley.

“The dance studio became my second home, as I know it was for so many of our students,” Bower-Logdson said. “It was there that I met such wonderful families and made everlasting friendships. Bot now, it is time to pass the torch to capable hands and I am confident that this studio will continue to thrive.”

Lisa Bower-Logsdon thanks the community, the dance families, her staff and her family members for their support in her 47 years of running the dance studio. Her choreographers join her on staff, including from left: Heather Kelley, Kamryn Berner and Caitlin Milizia.

Bower-Logsdon announced her retirement from owning the business at the conclusion of the Saturday night recital and that Heather Kelley will become the new owner. Bower-Logsdon will continue to work as one of the dance instructors.

“It is time to take my final bow,” Bower-Logsdon said at the end recital, which was attended by 650 people.

Bower-Logsdon said Kelley brings a love of dance, children and community. Kelley has coached the Holley cheerleaders and served as a dance instructor at Lisa’s for 27 years. Her dancers are regulars in the finals at the State Fair and one year won a state championship.

“Her passion for dance is unlike anyone I know,” Bower-Logsdon told the crowd about Kelley. “And when it comes to choreographing dance or cheer, she is one of the best.”

Saturday’s show included Bower-Logsdon’s granddaughter, Emilia Logsdon, in the baby tap class. Bower-Logsdon said teaching dance to her granddaughter has been an extra joy this year. Emilia is shown here during the “Baby Take A Bow” number. Emilia is doing leaping toe, back step.

Lisa started her dance studio as a junior in high school, first operating out of the St. Mary’s hall and then the Presbyterian Church before buying a building in the Public Square in 1991. Lisa’s has been there since. This year she had 200 students with most from Holley, Kendall, Albion and Brockport.

Bower-Logsdon said her parents, the late George and Sandy Bower, nurtured her love for dance and urged her to open a dance studio in Holley. Lisa praised her husband Kevin Logsdon for his steady support, including countless hours of maintenance with their building, and she commended her children Lauren and Mike and their families.

Bower-Logsdon said her fellow dance instructors over the years are the “unsung heroes behind the scenes.” They include Jill Bower, Beth Friedo, Caitlin Milizia, Alana Piccirilli, Malia Gardner, Lora Bower and Kamryn Berner. All started dancing at Lisa’s when they were young children.

“Together we’ve laughed, cried and brainstormed choreography,” Bower-Logsdon said. “Your creativity knows no bounds, and you commitment to our dancers has been nothing short of extraordinary. As I retire, I leave you with the legacy of collaboration and camaraderie that defines our studio.”

Lisa Bower-Logsdon sits close to the stage and helps guide a a tap dance from her young dancers. The number was called, “When I Grow Up.”

Caitlin Milizia, 33, has been part of Lisa’s since she was 3. She started as a staff choreographer when she was 17. She drives in from Webster to be part of Lisa’s Dance Boutique.

“She has been my role model for my whole life,” Milizia said. Her love for her dance families doesn’t stop when they leave her studio.”

Milizia had to wipe away tears talking about Bower-Logsdon after the recital.

“She puts forward her love of dance and it’s contagious,” Milizia said. “She puts her whole heart into it.”

Heather Kelley, the new owner of the dance studio, joins some of the dancers, including many alumni, in a number called, “Pass That.”

Kelley said she will continue Bower-Logsdon’s commitment to the community. Like Lisa, Heather has grown up in Holley and wants the dance studio to be a vital part of Holley for years to come.

“This has been my dream ever since I was little,” Kelley said.

These dancers perform “Gotta Be Mine” during the recital on Saturday.

This group performs “Fun” with some gravity-defying moves.

This younger group of dancers sport sunglasses in a number called, “Shades.”

“Dynamite” was one of many dancers with exuberant energy on stage.

“Sugar Sugar” featured dancers in colorful costumes with a lollipop prop.

This group performs M.C. hammer’s “Can’t Touch This” and even wore similar-style baggy pants as the rapper from the early 1990s.

“The Nicest Kids In Town” offered high-energy and upbeat music and moves.

12-year-old serves at OK Kitchen as part of year of giving back

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 12 May 2024 at 11:34 am

Provided photo: Pictured form left include Brycen Potter, Blair Allchin, Matthew Schomske, Liam Skowneski and Tres Allchin.

ALBION – An Albion boy chose to spend part of his 12th birthday on Thursday serving food at the Orleans Koinonia Kitchen. Tres Allchin recruited helpers: his sister Blair, mother Courtney Henderson and friends Brycen Potter, Matthew Schomske and Liam Skowneski.

Tres wanted to give back instead of having a birthday party with his friends, his mother said. Serving at the kitchen is the beginning of a year-long “Tres takes 12” effort to help at different non-profit organizations at least monthly throughout the year.

“We were so thankful and blessed to have had Tres and his friends come and serve the community,” said Faith Smith, the OK Kitchen director. “They even stayed at the end and helped clean up, wiping tables down and then vacuuming. It was such a blessing to have this crew serving.”

The OK Kitchen served 690 meals on Thursday, and those meals were based on Tres’ favorite food of cornbread. The kitchen served BBQ chicken, pasta salad, cornbread and birthday cake, cupcake and cookies.

Tres and his friends want to come back to help at the OK Kitchen, Tres mother said.

“He understands that he has immense privilege and that unfortunately not everyone gets dealt that hand and he would like to help better other people’s lives in any way he can,” Henderson said.

Mustangs face key N-O season ending diamond series against Lakemen

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 12 May 2024 at 9:15 am

Having already clinched at least a tie for the title, Medina will be looking to lock up the Niagara-Orleans League baseball championship outright as the Mustangs close out the regular season with a home-and-home series against Wilson on Monday (at Wilson) and on Tuesday (at Medina), both at 4:45 p.m.

The magic number is now one as the Mustangs enter the final week of the N-O campaign with a 9-1 record and a two-game lead over both Wilson and Roy-Hart, which are deadlocked in the runner-up spot at 7-3. Roy-Hart will wrap up with a home-and-home series against Barker on Monday and Tuesday.

The annual N-O All-League track meet will be held at Wilson on Wednesday.

Weekly Schedule
Monday
Baseball – Medina at Wilson, Albion at Akron, Barker at Roy-Hart, 4:45 p.m.
Softball – Lyndonville at Alexander, Holley at Attica, Kendall at Oakfield-Alabama, 5 p.m.
Tennis – Albion at Roy-Hart, Barker at Medina, Newfane at Akron, 4:30 p.m.
Lacrosse – Starpoint at Medina, 5 p.m.

Tuesday
Baseball – Wilson at Medina, Akron at Albion, Roy-Hart at Barker, 4:45 p.m.; Pembroke at Kendall, 5 p.m.
Softball – Roy-Hart at Akron, 4:45 p.m.; Lyndonville at Notre Dame, 5 p.m. at GCC
Tennis – Barker at Roy-Hart, 4:30 p.m.

Wednesday
Baseball – LeRoy at Medina, 5 p.m.; Section VI seeding meeting
Softball – Notre Dame at Albion, 4:45 p.m.; Section VI seeding meeting
Tennis – Akron at Albion, 4 p.m.
Track – N-O All-League meet at Wilson, 4 p.m.

Thursday
Baseball – Section V seeding meeting
Softball – Section V seeding meeting

Friday
Baseball – Roy-Hart at Kenmore East, 5 p.m.

Saturday
Baseball – Roy-Hart at St. Mary’s, Lancaster, 1 p.m.

N-O Standings
Baseball – Medina 9-1, Roy-Hart 7-3, Wilson 7-3, Newfane, 7-5, Akron 4-6, Albion 2-8, Barker 0-10
Softball – Barker 12-0, Wilson 9-3, Roy-Hart 7-4, Albion 6-6, Akron 5-6, Medina 2-10, Newfane 0-12
Tennis – Albion 10-0, Akron 9-1, Wilson 7-4, Roy-Hart 4-5, Barker 3-6, Medina 2-8, Newfane 0-11