County starts one-stop resource hub for residents in need
Press Release, Orleans County government
ALBION – In response to the recent stop to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit payments due to the federal government shutdown, Orleans County Emergency Management, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health), the county Department of Social Services, and the Orleans County Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD) have collaborated to create a new online, one-stop hub to help residents find free or affordable sources of food.
The hub also provides links to 211NY, CODE BLUE, and additional county social services and mental health resources.
The COAD, which is a coalition of local nonprofits, faith-based organizations, government agencies, and volunteers, recognized the growing need for a single reliable information source for residents. The group worked closely with the various COAD partners to develop a single location where residents can find information regarding food pantries, food drives, and free or reduced cost meals.
“This initiative reflects the county’s and COAD’s shared mission of strengthening community resilience,” said Lynne Johnson, chairman of the Orleans County Legislature. “By pooling resources and expertise, Orleans County is ensuring that residents know that help is out there and available to everyone.”
Residents, by clicking here, can access the resource center and explore the various options available to them.
“The halt to SNAP benefits has placed an added burden on many families across the county that are already facing economic challenges,” said Justin Niederhofer, director of Emergency Management. “This issue is impacting over 10 percent of our residents, so our goal is to ensure that every resident knows where to turn to get the help they need.”
Holli Nenni, commissioner of Orleans County Department of Social Services, wanted to remind SNAP recipients that any available SNAP benefits that remain on the SNAP EBT card are still available for use.
“Recipients can check their card balance online at ebtEDGE.com or by calling 1-888-328-6399,” said Nenni. “And, of course, we will release any updates from the SNAP division of the Office of Temporary and Disability as they become available.”
Hawley announces his support for Elise Stefanik for governor
Press Release, Assemblyman Steve Hawley
Provided photo: Assemblyman Steve Hawley is shown with Rep. Elise Stefanik at an event in Buffalo last month.
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) has announced his endorsement of Congresswoman Elise Stefanik ahead of next year’s gubernatorial race.
Rep. Stefanik announced her bid today alongside a wave of support from members of the Assembly Minority Conference as they seek to take on the one-party rule in Albany that has driven up the cost of living and driven out working families from our state. Hawley believes Rep. Stefanik is the best choice to take on Albany’s failed leadership and usher in a new era of prosperity in New York.
“I’m proud to be able to throw my support behind such a qualified and motivated candidate to bring common-sense policies back to Albany,” Hawley said. “Working families across our state can rest assured they will have an advocate fighting for them against the radical and out-of-touch policies being pushed by the Hochul administration. Her record of success shows she is fit to lead our state as we work to make New York a better place to live, work and raise our families.”
Hawley also referenced Gov. Hochul’s unashamed embrace of Socialist policies through her endorsement of now Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, saying the current administration has become out of touch with the needs of working New Yorkers.
“While Gov. Hochul has spent the last month in New York City campaigning for a Socialist, Elise Stefanik has been meeting with residents across our state who are struggling to make ends meet and put food on the table,” Hawley said. “New York doesn’t need another politician promising free handouts. Our state needs a strong leader who will fight against these radical policies, not advocate for them when it’s convenient. I’m confident Rep. Stefanik will be that leader for our state and provide the common-sense change that has been lacking in Albany for decades.”
Snow showers in forecast for Sunday night, Monday
Kari Hagglund sent in this photo from Thursday night of a nearly full moon in Albion.
Orleans County could see some snow for the first time this season on Sunday night. There are snow showers in the forecast for Sunday night and a chance for more snow showers on Monday and Tuesday night.
The highs and lows in the coming days include 58 today with a low around 40 tonight, followed by a high of 46 on Saturday with an overnight low of 36, and a high of 49 on Sunday with an overnight low around 29.
Past peak for fall foliage in Orleans County and around the state
Photo by Marsha Rivers: This photo in Holley is at the road leading to the Holley Waterfalls on Oct. 26.
It’s nearly over for the fall foliage season. The state has been doing weekly updates on fall foliage the past nine weeks. This week is the final report with nearly the entire state “past peak.”
The state has been promoting the foliage season with “leaf peepers” who enjoy the brilliance of the autumnal colors.
Map from I Love New York: While nearly all of the state is past peak, there are still vibrant colors on the trees in New York City.
Medina finalizing plans for Nov. 29 Parade of Lights
Assemblyman Hawley to serve as parade grand marshal
Photo by Ginny Kropf: The Parade of Lights Committee is meeting regularly to finalize plans for this year’s spectacular event, scheduled Nov. 29 at the conclusion of Medina’s day-long Olde Tyme Christmas Celebration. Clockwise, from left are Kevin DeHollander (Santa Claus), Dave and Gail Miller, Kathie Valley, chair Jim Hancock and his wife Barb, Nikki and Todd Bensley, Cindy Robinson and Sue DeHollander (Mrs. Claus). The group was meeting at the home of Reinhard Rogowski, standing at rear.
MEDINA – For the 17th year, Medina will host a spectacular Parade of Lights at the conclusion of the village’s Olde Tyme Christmas Celebration Nov. 29.
Parade committee members who are meeting regularly to plan the event include chair Jim Hancock and his wife Barb, Dave and Gail Miller, Kathie Valley, Todd and Nikki Bensley, Cindy Robinson, Kevin and Sue DeHollander (Santa and Mrs. Claus) and Reinhard Rogowski, who hosts the meetings at his home.
Hancock has announced they have chosen Assemblyman Steve Hawley of Batavia as this year’s parade grand marshal.
“The vote for Steve was unanimous,” Hancock said. “Steve has been with us for the past 10 to 12 years. He has served as our announcer out of the goodness of his heart. “
Entries are slowly being received, Hancock said. He is thrilled to see several first-time entrants, but also looks forward to the old favorites returning. Last year, 23 of the more than 40 floats entered registered during November, and Hancock hopes there will be an influx of entries before the Nov. 25 deadline this year.
The event will welcome a new musical group this year – the Hit Men, who will perform in Rotary Park at 5 p.m.
Other musical groups who will march in the parade include Medina’s Mustang Marching Band, Pembroke High School Marching Band and the Mark Time Marchers.
Parade floats can be entered in six different classes, which are listed on www.christmasinmedina.com, along with entry blanks. Prize money of $4,000 will be awarded, including a Grand Prize winner.
Corporations are also encouraged to sign up for five different levels of sponsorship – diamond, platinum, gold, silver or bronze. Sponsorship forms can also be found on the Christmas in Medina website.
Photo by Tom Rivers: Heveron Electric put a lot of effort into its float in last year’s Parade of Lights on Nov. 30, 2024. Parade organizers urge businesses, organizations and residents to enter a float in the Nov. 29 parade.
Akron downs Barker to capture a sixth straight Section VI Class C field hockey title
Akron captured a sixth straight Section VI Class C field hockey championship by downing Niagara-Orleans League foe Barker 3-0 this evening at Alden.
Mackenzie Tomporowski scored what proved to be the game winning goal for Akron with seven minutes to go in the third quarter breaking a scoreless deadlock.
The Lady Tigers quickly doubled their advantage just five minutes later on a goal by Morgan Tomporowski.
Morgan Tomporowski tacked on Akron’s final goal with 8 minutes to go in the fourth quarter.
Goalie Marissa Brege anchored the defense for Akron which has now registered shutouts in all 13 games against N-O League opponents this season.
Improving to 15-1, Akron will next face East Rochester from Section V in the Class C Far West Regional at 2 p.m. Saturday at Alden.
Deputy Doyle named county’s Employee of the Year
Provided photos: From left include Sheriff Christopher Bourke, Employee of the Year John Doyle, and Director of Personnel Katie Harvey.
Press Release, Orleans County Department of Personnel
ALBION – The EAP Committee is tasked to recognize employees of the month. This is a very important and a very special occasion when fellow county employees are recognized for not only their service to the citizens of the county but to recognize those individuals who go above and beyond their duty.
The EAP Committee receives nominations from fellow employees and department directors and then the nominations are reviewed and discussed by the committee and a selection is made.
The employees of the months for the past year were:
• October 2024 – Craig Lane (Department of Public Works)
• November 2024 – Bert Mathes (Department of Public Works)
• December 2024 – Kathleen Bates (Office for the Aging)
• January 2025 – Cynthia Walter (Social Services)
• February 2025 – Dawn Hazel (Mental Health)
• March 2025 – Audra Fisher (Emergency Management)
• April 2025 – Maria Strathearn (Social Services)
• May 2025 – Dustin Wells (Sheriff)
• June 2025 – Shelby Willis & Page Smith (Sheriff-Dispatch)
• July 2025 – Samantha Lawson (Social Services)
• August 2025 – John Doyle (Sheriff)
• September 2025 – Gerald Bentley (Sheriff-Dispatch)
Employee of the Month attendees include from left: Craig Lane (Public Works), Bert Mathes (Public Works), Kathleen Bates (Office for the Aging), Dawn Hazel (Mental Health), Audra Fisher (Emergency Management), Maria Strathearn (Social Services), Dustin Wells (Sheriff), Shelby Willis (Sheriff-Dispatch), Page Smith (Sheriff-Dispatch), Samantha Lawson (Social Services), John Doyle (Sheriff) and Gerald Bentley (Sheriff-Dispatch). They were recognized at the Fairhaven Inn.
From this pool of candidates, a Department Head must make a recommendation to a separate committee to determine the Employee of the Year. The committee takes into consideration the service that an employee has performed before choosing the Employee of the Year.
Throughout the past year, our employee of the year has shown exceptional dedication to keeping the public, county buildings, staff, and visitors safe. His proactive approach, professionalism, and commitment to public safety have strengthened the sense of security for everyone in our community and workplace.
His attention to detail and quick actions have helped prevent incidents, reduce risks, and create a safer environment across our county. His calm and professional presence brings confidence and reassurance to all who interact with him.
This employee demonstrates consistent service, awareness, and dedication. His work to protect the public, county employees, and our buildings reflects both outstanding skill and a strong commitment to the safety of those who rely on them each day.
The Sheriff’s Office and Orleans County appreciate his service to the department and the community. His interactions with the public are thorough and professional. Qualities that make him deserving of this award.
I am pleased to announce this year’s Employee of the Year is John Doyle.
Congratulations!
Katie Harvey, director of personnel
Sponsored Post
Albion Elks donate $4K worth of winter coats, supplies to elementary school
Photo courtesy of Albion Elks Lodge: Pictured from left: Niccole Moore (Albion Elementary Social Worker), Angela Conway (Elementary Principal), Marv Christ (Elks member), Joan Christ (Elks member), April Flesch (Elks member), Lynda Standish (Elks member), and Mickey Edwards (Albion Superintendent of Schools).
Press Release, Albion Elks Lodge
ALBION – The Albion Elks Lodge #1006 recently organized a donation of $4,000 worth of essential items to Albion’s Ronald L. Sodoma Elementary School to help support families in need this school year.
The donation included $2,000 worth of various hygiene items, shoes and basic clothing items; and $2,000 worth of winter coats.
Albion Elks members worked with school social worker Niccole Moore to understand what would be most useful for families. The Elks delivered the first donation of supplies earlier this school year, and the final donation of coats this past week.
“This contribution is incredibly meaningful to our district, as it allows us to help meet the needs of students and families within our community,” Moore said. “With the cold weather quickly approaching, these coats will be especially beneficial in ensuring our students stay warm and comfortable throughout the season.”
Families in need can connect with Moore, the school’s main office or their teacher for more information.
“Our mission is to help build stronger communities and improve the quality of life for our neighbors through grants obtained by our Elks National Foundation,” said Mike Jenks, Albion Elks Exalted Ruler.
Jenks also encourages Orleans County high school seniors to apply for the many scholarships the Elks has available. More information can be obtained at their schools.
Project at grand home in Medina brings back sons of prominent local painters
Photos by Ginny Kropf: (Left) Craig Royal, left, and his partner Tom Bradley sit on the steps of 512 West Ave., the historic home purchased by Andew Meier, who then contracted with Royal and Bradley to paint it. (Right) This is the newly restored front of 512 West Ave. with age-appropriate paint, a gold starburst and new steps.
MEDINA – Andrew Meier, a Medina native and local attorney, has always admired the house at 512 West Ave.
Ed Grinnell’s “Medina – Here’s to Our Heritage,” says Samuel Rice Jr., a native of England, took two deeds on the west side of what was then called “West Street.” The Tribune of Aug. 13, 1885 states “S. Rice Jr. is drawing stone preparatory to the erection of a house to be completed within a year.”
Rice died in 1907 and the house passed to a daughter, Mrs. Harry (Grace) Bickle. Grace was Samuel Rice’s daughter. The Bickles are reported to have lived in the house for many years. After Harry’s death, Grace lived in the home until around 1960, when she moved to Woodland Avenue. The next reported owners were Jim and Pat Anderson.
Meier said the house is basically original, but underwent significant interior remodeling by Harry Bickle in the summer of 1927. At that time, according to Meier, the kitchens and bathrooms were modernized and, he believes, the tin ceilings were installed throughout.
“Almost the entire first floor and much of the second floor have tin ceilings,” Meier said. “It is quite amazing.”
More recently, former village trustee Tim Elliott owned the home and turned it into a ceramics’ studio. When Meier learned Elliott had moved his studio two years ago, he decided to go talk to him.
“The rest is history,” Meier said.
Meier did not have any definite plans for the house when he purchased it, he said.
“But I decided to make it back into a home after working inside it,” Meier said. “We have not done too much work inside, but on the outside, lots of rotten wood has been replaced and the entire porch was rebuilt. We were able to salvage the original porch posts, but all of the railing had to be turned on a lathe to match the original, as it was beyond repair.”
Craig Royal looks at the 1961 issue of Lipton’s Magazine, in which his father Zeke Royal and Zeke’s business partner John Bradley take a break for a glass of tea while painting the Orleans County Courthouse. Bradley’s son Tom currently works with Craig on painting projects.
Meier also knew who he wanted to paint the house, and he contacted Craig Royal, who took over his father Zeke Royal’s painting business and now lives in Mooresville, N.C. Craig’s partner in the business was Tom Bradley, son of Zeke’s partner John Bradley. Tom now lives and Naples, Fla., but agreed to come north and work with Craig on several projects, including the house at 512 West Ave. They also painted Creekside Floral during their time here.
Their dads and Craig and Tom have painted everything and anything, including water towers, schools and churches.
“Dad used to drive up West Center Street and pointing he would say, ‘I painted that house and this house,’” Craig said.
Craig is a Medina native and 1977 graduate of Medina High School. Tom was born in Albion, but his family moved to Naples when he was 14, he said.
Craig said they come up north in the summer to paint, because it’s cooler here then. When Meier called him last year about the house at 512 West Ave., he recruited Scott Grimm, a retired teacher, and current teachers John McCarthy, Christian Held and Shawn Ragonese to help.
He also had to resurrect his father’s old paint truck, which he had sold to Jim Lawson. It was sitting in a field and needed a lot of work, Craig said.
It took more than a month to apply 20 gallons of primer to the house. They completed the job around Sept. 1.
Craig Royal and Tom Bradley stand by their paint truck parked in the front yard of 512 West Ave., after completing a several month-long painting and restoration job on the home, recently purchased by Andrew Meier.
Advisors from Clean Energy Hub share information in Albion, Medina
Press Release, Green Orleans
Provided photo: Emily Hung, an energy advisor, speaks during a presentation on Oct. 22 at Lee-Whedon Memorial Library in Medina.
ALBION/MEDINA – Energy advisors Emily Hung, Azmery Afnan and Brett Peters from the NYSERDA Finger Lakes Clean Energy Hub conducted presentations last month at Hoag Library in Albion and Lee-Whedon Memorial Library in Medina.
The purpose was to offer free and impartial information to local households and businesses to support our community’s transition to vehicles and buildings powered by carbon-free electricity, and to connect people to state and federal programs that can help subsidize their electrification costs and home repairs.
The Finger Lakes Clean Energy Hub, also known as AMPED, is a program of the Climate Solutions Accelerator. The Accelerator is an inclusive, non-partisan, not-profit organization dedicated to inspiring and facilitating a large-scale climate mobilization in the nine-county Genesee-Finger Lakes Region, which includes Orleans and Genesee counties.
Hung, Afnan and Peters explained the programs of clean energy technology and how individuals and small businesses can access these incentives. They explained that making your home and business more energy efficient can benefit not only yourself, but the community at large by reducing emissions and air pollution, as well as creating local jobs.
Individually, you can reduce your energy bills, improve air quality in your home, and decrease the risk of gas exposure. Many people do not know that NYSERDA Clean Energy Hubs offer free advertising on what you might be eligible for, including a free energy audit on your home. Following the audit, suggestions and recommendations are then offered to the home or business owner along with information regarding financial assistance and incentive availability.
For more information, contact the Finger Lakes Clean Energy Hub (aka) AMPED at hub@climategfl.org, or by calling 585-419-6218.
Argos Trio to perform in Albion on Nov. 19 at Pullman church
This will be fourth concert in Classical Music Series in Albion
Provided photos, and press release
ALBION – The Argos Trio will perform in Albion on Wednesday, Nov. 19, at 7 p.m. at the Pullman Memorial Universalist Church at 10 East Park St. in Albion.
The Argos Trio is a combination of violin, cello and piano. Violinist Juliana Athayde, cellist Lars Kirvan, and pianist Chiao-Wen Cheng will be performing trios of Mendelsohn and Beethoven.
- Juliana Athayde, violinist, is the concertmaster of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, appointed in 2005 at the age of 24. She has appeared as guest concertmaster and soloist at numerous orchestras throughout the United States. A dynamic teacher, Ms. Athayde is Associate Professor of Violin at the Eastman School of Music.
- Lars Kirvan, cellist, is the assistant principal cellist of the RPO and an internationally recognized chamber musician as well as orchestral musician, having earned his bachelor’s degree at the Cleveland Institute of Music. Lars has performed with the New World Symphony Orchestra and was recently invited to join the World Orchestra for Peace.
- A versatile musician and educator, Taiwanese pianist Chiao-Wen Cheng has performed as soloist, recitalist, and chamber musician in major venues throughout the United States, Europe, and Asia. Cheng holds a doctoral degree from the Eastman School of Music. Cheng is currently an Assistant Professor of Collaborative Piano and Chamber Music at the ESM. She joined the RPO as a Principal Keyboard in 2022.
The Argos Trio is the fourth concert in the Classical Music Series in Albion. Previously as a part of the Classical Music Series in Albion were three performing groups.
- Chamber Music Players of the Genesee Valley Wind Ensemble performed at the Baptist Church in Albion in January.
- Genesee Valley Wind Ensemble played in the High School Auditorium in May.
- E-Yah-Pah-Hah Wind Quintet played at Riley Place for the Cobblestone Summer Soiree in July.
We are very grateful to the Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council (GO Art!) for its generous support of this project. This project is made possible with funds from the
Statewide Community Regrant Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and administered by GO Art!
Orleans seeing strong growth in sales tax revenue so far this year
Returns up 9.7 percent, 5th highest among 57 counties outside NYC
Sales tax revenues are seeing strong growth in Orleans County through the first three quarters of the year, according to a report from State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli.
The local sales tax revenues in Orleans are up 9.7 percent, from $17.46 million to $19.14 million, for the first three quarters. That is the fifth highest growth rate in the state.
The only counties that have a higher growth rate include Hamilton County at 12%, followed by the counties of Yates and Chenango (each at 10.4%) and Delaware (10.3%).
Among the GLOW region, Genesee County is up 7.0 percent from $41.57 million to $44.49 million.
Livingston County is one of the six counties that seeing a drop in sales tax revenue. Livingston is down 2.5 percent from $36.41 million to $35.51 million in the first three quarters.
Wyoming County also is down. It dipped 0.1 percent, from $19.94 million to $19.92 million.
The state comptroller reported that nearly 90 percent of counties experienced a year-over-year increase in collections, with close to one-third of counties seeing more than 5 percent growth.
Orleans has seen steady growth in each of the three quarters so far this year – up 9.2 percent in first quarter ($5.39 million to $5.88 million), 14.8 percent increase in second quarter (from $5.68 million to $6.52 million) and up 5.5 percent in third quarter (from $6.39 million to $6.74 million).
State-wide, local government sales tax collections totaled $18.2 billion from January to September 2025, an increase of 4.3% ($747 million) compared to the same period last year, DiNapoli reported.
“New York’s local sales tax revenues rose through September compared to last year, but federal policy actions create significant fiscal risk for municipalities amid signs of a slowing economy,” DiNapoli said. “Local officials who rely on these revenues should take advantage of the financial planning tools and guidance my office offers to help them bolster their fiscal resilience.”
Click here to see the comptroller’s report.
Barker/Roy-Hart hosts Class C semi Friday
Photo by Cheryl Wertman – Jakob West and Joey Reiter, shown here making a tackle during last week’s quarterfinal game, and their Barker/Roy-Hart teammates will host Chautauqua Lake/Westfield/Brocton in the Class C semifinals at 7 p.m. Friday at Barker.
Looking to keep the momentum from last weekend’s quarterfinal victory, Barker/Roy-Hart will host Chautauqua Lake/Westfield/Brocton in the semifinals of the Section VI Class C football playoffs at 7 p.m. Friday at Barker.
Both teams posted high scoring wins in the quarterfinals as Barker/Roy-Hart downed Salamanca 46-30 and Chautauqua Lake routed Akron 70-12.
“We are very excited fot this next challenge,” said Barker/Roy-Hart Coach Bill Bruning. “Chautauqua Lake is a very talented and well coached team. We need to continue to play our brand of football.”
Both teams bring 8-1 records into the semifinals. Barker/Roy-Hart captured the C North Division title with a 6-0 record while Chautauqua Lake went 6-1 in the C South Division finishing second to undefeated (7-0, 9-0) Southwestern.
“The key for us! This has not changed since week 1,” said Bruning. “Win the turnover battle, Explosive plays (create ours and limit their’s) and tackling.”
Leading the Chautauqua Lake attack is quarterback Brayden Gibbs who has passed for 1,365 yards and 17 touchdowns and rushed for 273 yards and 5 TD.
The Eagles rushing attack is led by Thandon Bensink who has rushed for 689 yards and 9 TD. The leading receivers include Devin Hewes (44 catches for 587 yards and 6 TD), Asher Olson (26 for 411 yards and 6 TD) and Carson Fairbank (20 for 272 yards and 4 TD).
“Defensively we need to be gap sound for the running attack and play sound pass coverage,” said Bruning. “They have a balanced attack and if we can get them to play one dimensional that would be great.”
Quarterback Tysen McCaa, who has passed for 682 yards and 10 touchdowns and rushed for 522 yards and 5 TD leads the Barker/Roy-Hart attack.
The Bulls rushing attack also features Joey Reiter (935 yards, 11 TD), Carter DerSarkissian (476 yards, 5 TD), Anthony Adinolfe (370 yards, 4 TD) and Vince Fazzio (354 yards, 7 TD).
Fazzio also leads the receiving corps with 13 catches for 256 yards and 5 TD. Adinlfe has 12 receptions for 156 yards and 3 TD and Ashton Ark 10 for 180 and 2 TD.
The victor will face the winner of the Eden (8-1) at Southwestern (9-0) semifinal in the Class C championship game at Highmark Stadium on November 13.
Medina firefighters deliver 42 red barrels for annual holiday drive
MAAC urges donations that will be shared with children and senior citizens
Photos by Ginny Kropf: Medina firefighters gather around the MAAC Christmas barrels on Wednesday morning, prior to loading them in their ambulances to be delivered to local shops, schools, churches, etc. to be filled with gifts for children and families in the Medina community. From left are firefighter Joe Kyle, Lt. Steve Miller, Lt. Adam Fisher, Lt. Jacob Crooks, chief Steve Cooley, Lt. Tim Miller, trainee Zyere Wade from Iroquois Job Corps, firefighter Frank Golojuch and Red Barrel chair Sherry Tuohey-Sipple.
MEDINA – When they are not busy putting out a fire or responding to an emergency call, Medina firefighters may be found supporting their community in other ways, such as delivering barrels throughout town for MAAC’s annual Christmas Present Program (otherwise known as the Red Barrel Program).
Delivering toys to children at Christmas time was started by the Medina firefighters decades ago. The Medina Area Association of Churches now runs the program. Sherry Tuohey-Sipple has been organizer of the program for going on eight years.
Every year, up to 42 barrels are delivered to targeted locations throughout Medina and nearby. The public is encouraged to fill the barrels with a new toy or gift suitable for youth up to 18 years of age and senior citizens.
Lt. Adam Fisher carries two barrels to his emergency vehicle at the Grove Methodist Church. Medina firefighters delivered 42 red barrels Wednesday morning.
Last year, more than 110 families were provided with Christmas gifts and a holiday meal. Tuohey-Sipple anticipates the need will be greater this year because of the state of the economy.
While Tuohey-Sipple heads the committee, she has lots of help. Norma Jean Foster has been in charge of the food baskets for the past four years. She shops for hams, potatoes, canned fruits and vegetables, stuffing and cereal.
Barb Vreeland, a member of MAAC, said this is a blessed ministry, for sure. Vreeland said they are grateful to the churches and community, all of which are so good to them.
Tuohey-Sipple added her thanks to the businesses, churches, banks, libraries and anyone else who accepts a red barrel in their establishment.
Provided photos: (Left) Norma Jean Foster carries boxes of canned goods into the Grove United Methodist Church where they will be used to fill food boxes for the Christmas Present (Red Barrel) Program. (Right) Katie Oakes poses with a MAAC red barrel at Lynoaken Farms on Ridge Road. Customers who donate a gift suitable for a teen will receive a bag like the ones she is holding filled with apples. This is the final weekend Lynoaken will be open.
Two new board members for MAAC have volunteered to take an active role in encouraging donations.
Katie Oakes, who heads LynOaken Farms U-pick apple orchard, and Meghan Fuller, whose mother owns Ellen J. Goods, have both come up with promotions for the public. Oakes said MAAC is an organization that is near and dear to her heart.
“Every year they run a Christmas Present program for local families in need – providing gifts for children up to 18, hats and gloves for all family members, hygiene kits for every adult in the household and a full holiday meal,” Oakes said. “I think it’s such an amazing program and this year I’m so honored to be a part of the committee that has been running it for years.”
Oakes went on to explain that while gifts for babies and young children are plentiful, teens are often the ones most overlooked when it comes to holiday donations.
In an effort to boost donations for this age group, Oakes has placed a red barrel in the U-pick pavilion for their final weekend this week, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Anyone who brings a new gift for a pre-teen or teen (ages 9-18) will receive a free half peck bag to fill with any of their remaining apples. (One bag per person – not per gift).
Medina firefighter/EMT Frank Golojuch and others at Medina FD finish loading the 42 barrels they would deliver to various locations in Medina and the surrounding area.
Some ideas for gifts are Legos, earbuds, portable chargers, reusable water bottles, cozy blankets, art kits/supplies and Bluetooth speakers.
Fuller works with her mom Lynne, owner of Ellen J. Goods store on Main Street. It is a vintage and antique furniture and home décor shop, offering painting and décor workshops. They sponsor retreats and welcome EJG campers at various times throughout the year.
Fuller said she is thrilled to have joined the MAAC committee and to be able to collect gifts for teens this holiday season.
“Teens deserve to feel the love, too,” she said. “I will put together an awesome Pentart/Decoupage Queen gift basket in our store. If you bring in a gift for a teen, you will be entered to win. Your help would mean the world to me and make the holidays a little brighter for local teens.”
To qualify for a holiday basket, families must live in the 14103 (Medina) or 14479 (Knowlesville) zip codes. They must sign up during the second and third weeks of November at either St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 1355 West Ave., from 10 a.m. to noon or 5 to 7 p.m. on Nov. 11 or 18; or at the Vine at 11031 Maple Ridge Rd., from 10 a.m. to noon Nov. 13 or 20. They must provide proof of household, residence and income. Income guidelines will apply.
The barrels will be picked up on Dec. 3 and gift boxes delivered on Dec. 13.
Anyone with questions may contact Tuohey-Sipple at (585) 356-8346 or call (585) 798-5698 and leave a message.
Medina Fire Chief Steve Cooley helps load red barrels in his department’s emergency vehicles to kick off the 2025 Christmas Present (Red Barrel) drive.
