By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 2 April 2026 at 1:06 pm
One big scoring inning keyed Kendall to a 6-1 victory over Buckeye, Ohio today at the Cal Ripken Experience at Myrtle Beach.
Leading 1-0, the Eagles broke the game open by erupting for 5 runs in the fourth inning on an RBI sacrifice fly by Jonny Conte, a two-run single by winning pitcher Vinnie D’Agostino and a pair of run producing errors.
Singles by Jacob Abrams and Andrew Cole and a walk loaded the bases to set up the threat.
Vinnie D’Agostino also drove in Kendall’s first run of the day with a sacrifice fly in the third inning following singles by Conte and CJ D’Agostino.
Conte, Cole and CJ D’Agostino each finished with a pair of hits.
The Bucks lone run came in the bottom of the forth on a single , double and wild pitch.
Vinnie D’Agostino pitched the first five innings allowing 2 hits and striking out 5. CJ D’Agostino came on hurls the final two frames giving up 1 hit and fanning 1.
Kendall improves to 3-0 while Buckeye, which interestingly is from Medina, Ohio, is 3-2.
Board chairman said organization has already implemented many changes, cites record high revenue shared with municipalities
Photo by Tom Rivers: Byron Brown, president and CEO of Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp., speaks to the Orleans County legislature on Sept. 23, 2025. He highlighted financial successes at WROTB and Batavia Downs, which have resulted in more revenue for member municipalities including Orleans County. An audit from the state comptroller said better management from WROTB would result in even more revenue to the member municipalities.
Press Release, State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli’s Office
An audit by New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli of the Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp. (WROTB) found poor oversight of operations by the board of directors, cost overruns and significant estimation errors.
The audit found WROTB’s failure to take action to address the declining handle, the total amount wagered on horse races and other gaming activities, adjust to changes in the gambling industry, and control costs limited the amount of revenues provided to participating municipalities.
DiNapoli offered 16 recommendations to help the organization improve its financial operations, which WROTB officials said they were acting on. The audit covered the period from January 2021 through December 2024 and some contracts going back to 2020, with nearly all the period being before significant changes in WROTB board and leadership occurred.
“The Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corporation is under pressure as revenues decline from its horse racing and wagering operations, and it must rein in costs and strengthen its financial operations,” DiNapoli said. “The corporation is supposed to benefit local participating municipalities and taxpayers, and even as the gambling industry changes, the board can adapt without losing that mission. I’m encouraged by steps the current board and new management have taken, and urge continued progress.”
WROTB was formed in 1973 and is owned by 15 participating counties and the cities of Buffalo and Rochester. It offers off-track pari-mutuel wagering on horse racing at Batavia Downs Gaming and other locations. A portion of the revenues generated are distributed to the participating municipalities. The board is comprised of representatives from the 15 participating counties and two cities. WROTB management changed significantly in October 2024, when the former CEO resigned and the board appointed a replacement.
Lack of Oversight, Documentation and Transparency
Auditors found the board essentially relinquished its oversight responsibilities and allowed corporation management to monitor its own financial operations and spending. Auditors determined that board members did not receive financial reports to discuss in a timely manner and never received cash flow and other critical statements necessary to monitor spending and adjust budget lines that were overspent.
When the board made changes to annual operating plans, they were done during workshops, which were not documented and included in meeting minutes. Holding discussions where important decisions are made essentially behind closed doors limits the transparency that is expected of a public entity.
The board also did not authorize all procurements of goods and services over $15,000, as required by its own policy. Instead, the board again relied on WROTB management to monitor costs and present resolutions to amend the authorized costs when needed.
Declining Handle
While increased wagering in its video gaming operations improved WROTB’s overall financial condition, its horse racing and wagering operations deteriorated at a steady pace over the audit period. During the four-year period, WROTB’s handle declined 34% ($23.5 million), resulting in in less statutory distributions to the horse racing industry, the New York State Gaming Commission, as well as allocations to local governments. In 2024, WROTB distributed $6.7 million to participating governments, over $3 million (31%) less than the previous calendar year.
Increasing Expenses
WROTB’s revenue increased approximately $3.7 million (7%) while operating expenses grew by more than $8.4 million (22%), over the audit period. The most significant expense increases included:
Salaries, which increased by 38% since 2021 and accounted for more than $16.8 million (40%) of WROTB operating expenses in 2024 and exceeded the 2024 operating plan by $400,000.
Professional services, which increased by 23% and accounted for more than $2.5 million of the 2024 operating expenses.
The board allowed management to enter into contracts for legal services and consultants without proper board approval and exceeded the approved spending amounts by over $1 million. WROTB only received reports detailing the consultants’ work for which WROTB was billed from eight of the 17 consultants it had approved contracts with, four of which were only verbal, including three from lobbyists. The board did not receive any reports from nine of the 17 consultants it had approved contracts with detailing the consultants’ work for which WROTB was billed for and paid.
For example, management paid legal firms $844,954 in excess of board-approved amounts. In one case, management paid a firm $247,969 for work unrelated to a contract and without receiving detailed invoices. Management also paid over $400,000 to two other law firms for general counsel duties and work on a lawsuit without receiving any board approval for their services. Similarly, management paid $168,040 to eight consultants without board approval.
Incomplete Implementation of Prior Audit Recommendations
Two audits, released by DiNapoli in September 2021, found WROTB spent at least $121,000 on tickets to sporting events, concerts, food and alcohol for board members, employees and other individuals without the oversight required by state rules, and that WROTB’s CEO did not reimburse the organization for his personal use of an official vehicle in a timely manner. He later reimbursed WROTB $3,484 after an internal auditor found that he was not following WROTB’s policy.
Auditors found that in response to this previous audit, WROTB improved its records on who was given promotional tickets to an event, whether they were comps, giveaways or purchased by an employee, and the host of the event. However, in several instances, the host name could not be identified because only the first name was listed. WROTB also updated its take-home vehicle policy and restricted its use of take-home vehicles, as recommended in the second prior audit.
Click here to see the report and recommendations from the comptroller.
Editor’s note: In a response to the state comptroller’s office, WROTB Chairman Dennis Bassett wrote in a letter that the board has already implemented many changes to improve oversight. He noted WROTB distributed $12.9 million to member municipalities in 2025, the most ever and up by 93 percent from the $6.7 million in 2024.
“This performance was achieved despite continued decline in pari-mutuel handle and ongoing losses in branch operations,” Bassett wrote in a letter dated Feb. 26. “The increase reflects improved operational oversight, disciplined financial management, and implementation of two Board-approved reform agenda designed to strengthen internal controls and enhance transparency and accountability.”
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 2 April 2026 at 10:16 am
MEDINA – GLOW YMCA has announced launch of its Strong Communities Annual Campaign at the Orleans County branch in Medina.
Strong Communities Campaign is an annual fundraising effort dedicated to ensuring that everyone in the community has access to the YMCA’s life-changing programs and services, regardless of financial circumstances, according to Andrew Houseman, senior program director at the YMCA in Medina.
This year, GLOW YMCA has set a fundraising goal of $30,000 to provide critical financial assistance for children, families and individuals across the region.
“The YMCA is a place for all,” Houseman said. “Everyone deserves the opportunity to belong, grow and thrive. Our Strong Communities Annual Campaign allows us to ensure that everyone – from children and families to seniors in our community, have support and access to our facility. We are proud to provide a place that has such a positive impact on individual’s health, development and overall well-being.”
Each year the campaign is supported by volunteers, staff, donors and community partners who work together to raise funds that make a direct impact locally, Houseman said. Through this collective effort, the YMCA continues to provide a welcoming space where people of all ages can build connections, develop healthy habits and reach their full potential.
The impact of the Strong Communities Annual Campaign can be seen in the lives of the families and individuals who benefit from YMCA programs every day, Houseman added.
An example is Josh, who found staying active and improving his health wasn’t always easy. Before finding the YMCA, even getting to a fitness facility depended on whether he had access to a bike, making consistency a challenge. That changed when he connected with a life planner through the ARC. Through that partnership, Josh was able to receive support with transportation and access YMCA financial assistance to help cover the cost of membership.
With those barriers removed, everything began to change for Josh.
At the YMCA he found more than just a place to work out. He found a routine, a sense of purpose and a welcoming community. He now spends his time building strength and staying active, whether it’s riding the stationary bike, walking on the treadmill or using strength equipment.
But for Josh, it’s about more than physical fitness, Houseman explained.
“I like to listen to music and just get in the zone,” Josh shared. “The YMCA makes me feel like I’m building muscle, feeling healthier and just better overall. Without it, I wouldn’t feel as good or as healthy.”
Beyond the equipment and workouts, the YMCA has given Josh something even more meaningful – connection. Whether he’s seeing friends, spending time around others or even running into family members like his aunt, the Y provides a space where he feels engaged and part of something bigger, Houseman said.
“There’s a lot to do here, and it’s fun,” Josh said.
Josh also credits his life planner for helping him stay motivated, offering encouragement and guidance along the way. That support system, combined with access to the YMCA, has made a lasting difference in his life.
Stories like Josh’s are a powerful reminder of what’s possible when barriers are removed, Houseman added. Through strong community partnerships and financial assistance, the YMCA ensures individuals of all abilities have access to the resources, support and connects they need to live healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Through the YMCA’s Strong Communities Campaign, individuals like Josh are not only improving their health, they are building confidence, finding belonging and discovering new possibilities.
“Because at the Y, everyone deserves the opportunity to grow, connect and thrive,” Houseman said.
Community members and local businesses are encouraged to support the Strong Communities Annual Campaign through donations, sponsorships and volunteer efforts. Every contribution helps the GLOW YMCA continue to strengthen the community and expand opportunities for all.
For more information about the Strong Communities Annual Campaign or to make a donation, visit www.glowymca.org or contact Houseman at ahouseman@glowymca.org.
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On Thursday, March 19, the GCEDC held a public hearing on the request from STREAM US Data Centers and Apollo Global Management for $1.46 billion in taxpayer subsidies for their proposed 2.2 million square foot, 500 MW data center complex at STAMP. GCEDC would earn $146 million in fees from the deal.
The hearing started at 7 p.m. and lasted until 12:30 a.m. At least 300 people packed into the Town of Alabama Fire Hall. All but two speakers – both of whom work for organizations that stand to benefit financially from the deal – spoke in powerful opposition.
It’s clear: Genesee County, the GLOW Region, and WNY say “No” to the STAMP Monster Data Center. The hearing provided an opportunity for much-needed truth telling about the data center, GCEDC’s failures over the years. We built community and solidarity in that hearing.
But there were some issues:
Not all members of the GCEDC Board of Directors, which will vote on the incentive package, seemed to be present for the entire hearing. This is unacceptable.
Because the hearing did not begin until 7 p.m. on a work night/school night, many individuals left before they had a chance to comment. Additionally, that meant that those individuals did not hear their fellow community members who spoke after they left – and that most members of the media had left long before the end of the hearing.
Neither STREAM nor GCEDC answered questions from the public.
Commenters raised serious issues about gaps and inconsistencies of information in the materials shared publicly by STREAM, as well as about its financial backer, Apollo Global Management. Many of these gaps and inconsistencies have also been flagged by GCEDC’s own paid consultants.
GCEDC uploaded a highly edited videorecording of the hearing that distorts critical aspects of the event and public response. If this video is supposed to serve as the public record of the proceedings, that is a big problem.
GCEDC does not plan to hold additional hearings, and set March 31 as the deadline for written comment on the data center proposal. This is unacceptable.
We demand:
GCEDC must hold additional public hearings, at a range of times that accommodate people with varying schedules;
The Board of Directors must be present at these hearings;
GCEDC and STREAM must publicly answer questions from the public about the data center proposal;
GCEDC must upload the full, unedited videorecording of the March 19 public hearing asap;
Given that GCEDC’s own staff and consultants have flagged numerous inconsistencies and gaps in STREAM’s application materials, GCEDC must ensure both that final application documents, once submitted by STREAM, are provided to the public, and that the public then has the opportunity to comment, before the Board makes any decision on this application, financial, environmental, or otherwise;
Thus, GCEDC must extend the deadline for comments on the data center proposal until the above demands have been met.
The stakes for our community are too high. The people of Genesee County and the GLOW Region deserve a robust, meaningful, transparent public process for decision-making on the data center plan.
Photo courtesy of Orleans/Niagara BOCES: Zachery Freas of Lyndonville, left, and Renzo Tomasi of Albion, right, are congratulated by welding teacher Verenice Bragg.
Press Release, Orleans/Niagara BOCES
Two Orleans Career and Technical Education Center welding students brought how two of the top three medals from the 2026 AWS (American Welding Society) Weld Off competition.
Their teacher, Verenice Bragg, was proud to announce that seniors Zachery Freas (Lyndonville) took first place and Renzo Tomasi (Albion) placed third. Renzo also received a $1,000 scholarship that he will use when he attends Alfred University this fall.
The competition was held on March 28 at the Northland Workforce Training Center in Buffalo. It is free to all participants and each BOCES and/or technology school is allowed to send two seniors and two juniors. First place winners receive $150, second place $100 and third place is a $50 prize. They also receive a prize pack from the American Welding Society.
Zachery’s first place win gives him the opportunity to attend the Thruway Cup in Syracuse in May.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 2 April 2026 at 8:48 am
Photos by Ginny Kropf: Rob Klino, left, and Gary Berger stand next to a wall filled with a collection of butter pat holders in the home of Berger’s parents, the late Frank and Nancy Berger. Klino will have an estate sale there on April 9 through 12.
Provided photo: Nancy and Frank Berger were long-time local leaders in Medina.
MEDINA – When Rob Klino goes to work, he isn’t punching your average “nine to five” timeclock. He’s embarking on a journey into the lives of those he serves.
Klino is a collector and an antique dealer whose profession is conducting estate sales. When he takes on a job to dispose of someone’s estate, he is delving into their most prized possessions – what their interests were, what they cherished, and often “what made them tick.”
Klino is a Medina native who grew up here, went to college and in his 20s, decided to move to Atlanta to escape the snow.
His love of antiques actually began while he was in high school and baby sat for a prominent family who loved to go antiquing. He would often go with them on short trips and witness them buying and selling antiques. As a teenager, he wanted designer jeans for school, but his mother wouldn’t spend the money, so he started buying and selling pieces in order to buy his own jeans. Soon he was buying art and pottery, and the foundation for his next profession was set.
In spent 23 years in Atlanta, working in human resources and software development. Then a desire to be near his family prompted his return to Medina in 2018. Shortly after, he opened Thistle Ridge Antiques on Main Street.
He remembers clearly his first estate sale – that of Tim and Maura Pierce on the corner of West Center and Ohio streets.
“I am very selective about the estate sales I do,” Klino said.
This is some of the collection in the estate of Frank and Nancy Berger which will be sold at a sale April 9 through 12.
His largest estate sale was that of a local doctor, but an upcoming estate sale April 9 through 12 has tugged at his heartstrings.
“It is an honor and a privilege to have been chosen by the family of Frank and Nancy Berger to host their estate sale,” Klino said. “I have often referred to Nancy and Frank and ‘Mr. and Mrs. Medina.’ Their sale is a fantastic opportunity to purchase a piece of Medina memorabilia to remember them by.”
The Berger’s lived at 3626 North Gravel Rd., where they built their home in 1959, and filled it with memorabilia. There, they raised two sons, Gary and Brian.
“Both my parents were big in history,” Gary said. “My dad was a big supporter of veterans and was active in the American Legion. He spent his whole life in Scouting.”
Rob Klino, who will have an estate sale at the home of the late Frank and Nancy Berger, holds a Pack 14 flag, which is part of a massive collection of Boy Scout memorabilia which will be sold.
Frank served in the U.S. Navy, spent 30 years as an industrial arts teacher at Medina High School and continued to serve several terms as president in the Retired Teachers’ Association. He was commander of the Butts-Clark American Legion Post, head of Medina’s Memorial Day parade for more than 40 years, a longtime Mason, a founding member of Medina Historical Society and a county legislator for 14 years. He was named “Medina Citizen of the Year” in 1972 and 1999.
Nancy no doubt inherited her love of antiques from her father, with whom she would go antiquing. Gary remembers going with them as a child. She was employed as a medical secretary for several area physicians, and in 1981, she opened The Personal Touch, primarily a fabric store, in Medina.
When that closed in 1999, she continued to run a Christmas shop at her home. She became passionate about Mid Eastern dancing, which she taught for eight years. Nancy also became involved in Scouting as a Den Mother for Cub Scouts, earning their highest achievement – the Silver Beaver Award.
In March 1986, the Bergers became the first couple to receive Medina Chamber of Commerce’s Distinguished Service Award.
Nancy died at 3:30 a.m. Sept. 27, 2015, and Frank at 3:35 a.m. Sept. 27, 2025.
This collection of stoneware will be sold during an estate sale at the home of Frank and Nancy Berger, 3626 South Gravel Rd.
Gary said his parents started collecting “stuff” as far back as he can remember. There is hardly a space in their house that doesn’t boast a collection of something.
“There’s some pretty amazing stuff,” Klino said. “It spans 79 years of their lives.”
The basement is filled with Frank’s Boy Scout memorabilia and a military collection on one half, while an assortment of Nancy’s collections fills the other half. The first floor is filled with antiques, primitives, “farmhouse fabulous décor,” Medina memorabilia, a huge butter pat holder collection, tea cup holders, glassware and stoneware.
Upstairs is devoted to Nancy’s collection of dolls, sewing notions and teddy bears.
The garage is also filled with everything from garden tools to Christmas decorations.
“Frank’s stuff was all over the place, while Nancy’s was so organized,” Klino said.
Because of the enormity of the estate, Klino said they have added an extra night for the sale. It is scheduled from 4 to 8 p.m. April 9, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 10 and 11 and from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 12.
Gary Berger looks at a newspaper article on Dec. 31, 1999 announcing his father’s selection as Medina’s Citizen of the Year. He received the honor in 1972 and 1999.
By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 1 April 2026 at 9:08 pm
Photos by Cheryl Wertman – Medina’s Luke Duffina drives to the goal against Depew defender Max Delano during the Mustangs loss to the Wildcats this evening at Vets Park.
A big 7-1 scoring edge over the middle two quarters keyed Depew to a 12-4 victory over Medina in a D Division lacrosse game this evening at Vets Park.
The decisive scoring surge vaulted the Wildcats out to leads of 5-1 at the half and 8-2 at the end of the third quarter.
Luke Duffina scored two goals for Medina as Landan Costich and Sawyer Lilleby each netted one.
Depew is now 2-1 and Medina 1-1 in the division.
Medina’s Brennan Allen sends the ball up field as Warren Triplet defends for Depew.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 1 April 2026 at 8:45 pm
Photo by Tom Rivers: A chunk of Eagle Harbor Road in Albion had the east side shoulder wash out from the flooding last night. The west side of the road has held up, but the water passes over the road to the other side washed out a chunk of the road. Orleans County’s Department of Public Works has closed this part of the road to traffic and is seeking an engineer’s opinion on the next steps for getting it repaired. The culvert pipes underneath have been exposed from having part of the road washed out.
Local highway and emergency management officials were out assessing damage to roadways and public infrastructure from the flooding on Tuesday and overnight.
A section of Eagle Harbor Road in Albion seems to have suffered the worst damage. The chunk of the road was washed away from the flooding, forcing the Orleans County DPW to block traffic in this spot, which is between Route 31 and the Erie Canal. Local traffic can still use the road, but there are traffic barriers to deter traffic between Route 31 and Albion-Eagle Harbor Road.
Provided photos: Culvert Road at the tunnel going under the Erie Canal was full of stone, gravel and some debris that needs to be cleaned out, said Justin Niederhofer, the county’s emergency management director.
Some of the culvert pipes on the side of the road were also knocked loose and exposed.
The Monroe-Orleans County Line Road was closed to traffic after being flooded.
This driveway and part of Monroe-Orleans County Line Road in Murray were washed out from the raging waters.
Firefighters were called to pump out 100 basements and respond to other storm emergencies, including two cars that got swept into ditches. This photo shows a backyard on Batavia Street in Holley.
Niederhofer said local officials will be tabulating the damages and costs from the response, and may be eligible for federal FEMA funding. The county could be part of a larger regional application for FEMA aid, he said.
Press Release and renderings courtesy of Lyndonville Lions Club
LYNDONVILLE – The Lyndonville Lions Club was recently notified by the Federal Aviation Administration that its sealed bid and proposal for the soon-to-be decommissioned Boeing 747 known as “Air Force One” has been accepted.
Club members were delighted by the decision, which marks the culmination of a two-year effort spearheaded by the Lions to secure this iconic piece of American history.
The successful proposal was grounded in the organization’s comprehensive plan to showcase the aircraft in a dignified and respectful manner, ensuring its historical significance is preserved for the public.
The effort was further strengthened by a substantial financial commitment from anonymous local donors, reflecting strong community support for the project.
The proposal and project are scheduled to officially kick off on Saturday, July 4, 2026, during the Lions’ annual Independence Day celebration, with a ceremonial groundbreaking planned just before noon.
Working in close partnership with the Village of Lyndonville and the Town of Yates, the Lions successfully secured the necessary financial backing and developed a proposal that will bring this iconic symbol of American freedom to Veterans Memorial Park in the Village of Lyndonville.
Due to significant space limitations, the Lyndonville Lions engaged the services of Canadian structural engineering firm Dewey, Cheatum and Howe to design an innovative plan to make this vision a reality. Club members have long sought a major attraction to draw visitors to the Town of Yates and Orleans County, and they believe this project has the potential to do just that.
The proposed engineering plan calls for the aircraft to be elevated on four large steel-and-concrete pillars, positioning it above the existing parking lot and mill pond on the west side of Main Street. To reduce costs and promote environmental sustainability, refurbished steel and concrete from the recently decommissioned Somerset Coal-Fired Electrical Generating Station will be incorporated into the project, emphasizing the use of recycled materials.
Project planners were also able to navigate several potential regulatory challenges. Several road blocks and red tape were sidestepped since none of the supporting piers will make contact with the water, certain Department of Environmental Conservation and EPA requirements did not apply and were waived.
The Town of Yates is excited by this project, noting that its over-water design preserves valuable taxable land. One remaining federal requirement will be addressed during the installation phase, when the aircraft is mounted atop the 150-foot pillars.
Originally, the aircraft was to be positioned facing south. However, after further analysis of prevailing wind patterns and migratory bird flight paths, the design has been adjusted, rotating the plane 90 degrees so that it will ultimately face east. Consulting engineers involved in this decision believe the revised orientation will enhance the visual impact, creating the impression of the aircraft descending toward Maple Avenue in the Village of Lyndonville.
The Lions have also reassured village officials that concerns regarding approach lighting and landing lights along Maple Avenue will not be necessary.
The Lyndonville Lions Club extends its appreciation to the Canadian government for granting a limited territorial exemption related to North American waterfowl flyways. This consideration reflects the unique status of the Canadian geese residing in the Lyndonville area, which are now considered largely domesticated and non-migratory. The Canadian government was happy to have Lyndonville keep these birds.
Overall, the small group of individuals involved in planning this project—who were sworn to confidentiality—will remain anonymous. It is anticipated that complaints may arise, and any such matters will be addressed at the village and town levels as appropriate.
The committee has proactively engaged with the No Wind Turbine Committee to address potential concerns. They have confirmed that the aircraft’s engines will be locked and sealed to prevent noise caused by prevailing winds passing through the turbines, and they will not be used for any form of energy generation.
In addition, the committee has received interest from both local and international investors regarding potential future enhancements to the project. While no decisions have been finalized, concepts under consideration have included a casino, an elevated bar and restaurant complex, a brewery, and even a hostel, all aimed at further enhancing the site as a destination.
The Lyndonville Lions would like to wish everyone a Happy April Fool’s Day!
Photos and press release from Friends of Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge
BASOM – A crack in the shell of a bald eagle egg was spotted and confirmed late Wednesday morning in Basom at the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge.
The eagle parents and their nest have been the focus of a livestream run by the Friends of INWR.
There are three eggs in the nest. The first egg was laid at 5:06 p.m. February 20; the second at 5 p.m. February 23; and the third at 2:34 p.m. February 27.
Presuming the oldest egg is the one that cracked first, it took its time. Eagle eggs typically take 35 days or so of incubation before hatching.
To follow along with the eagle adventures, you can find a link to the livestream at FINWR.org.
‘The Medina Police Department and Medina Fire Department remain committed to protecting the community and holding those responsible for violent and dangerous acts accountable.’
Press Release, Medina Police Department and Medina Fire Department
ALBION – On December 17, 2024, the Medina Police Department and Medina Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 207 Bates Road. A mother and her son were forced to evacuate the residence as a result of the fire.
A subsequent investigation determined that the fire had been intentionally set.
Through a coordinated investigative effort, Zachary Natale was identified as the responsible party and was arrested and charged with Arson in the Second Degree, Burglary in the Second Degree, and Reckless Endangerment in the First Degree.
On April 1, 2026, the Orleans County Court Judge Sanford Church sentenced Natale to 13 years in New York State Prison, followed by 5 years of post-release supervision.
This case is the result of a collaborative effort between multiple agencies. The Medina Police Department and Medina Fire Department would like to recognize the following individuals and agencies for their assistance:
Medina Police Department: Officers Meredith, McManus and Holtz
Medina Fire Department Fire Investigation Unit: Investigators Cooley, Crooks and Seefeldt
Orleans County Sheriff’s Office: Investigator Marsciell
Orleans County Emergency Management: Director Niederhofer, Deputy Director Buffin, Investigators David Clary and Cole Hardenbrook
Erie County Crime Lab
Erie County Sheriff’s Office: Detective Scott Kuhlney and K9 Clipper
Orleans County District Attorney’s Office, including District Attorney Susan Howard and staff
The Medina Police Department and Medina Fire Department remain committed to protecting the community and holding those responsible for violent and dangerous acts accountable.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 1 April 2026 at 2:48 pm
File photo by Tom Rivers: Kids displayed breakneck speed in hunting down Easter eggs on March 30, 2024. There were about 12,000 eggs scattered on the lawn.
ALBION – An Easter egg hunt with more than 10,000 eggs scattered about the Orleans Courthouse lawn has been canceled due to the muddy conditions and more rain in the forecast for Saturday.
The Royal Body Shop Outreach Ministries was planning its fifth annual egg hunt for Saturday. The church teams with the Albion Masonic Lodge which serves up free hot dogs and fries.
The Masonic Lodge will still be offering free hot dogs, easter baskets and eggs full of candy to children beginning at noon on Saturday until they run out.
Jeff Holler, one of the leaders of the Masonic Lodge and the egg hunt, said there wasn’t enough time to secure an alternative site for the egg hunt. The land at other locations, including the school’s artificial fields, would need board approval and there isn’t enough time before the next board meeting.
Holler said Royal Body Shop and the Masonic Lodge will try to have a backup site ready in the future if torrential rains make the courthouse lawn off-limits.
By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 1 April 2026 at 1:35 pm
A combination of wet fields and chilly temperatures has caused today’s slate of high school softball games to be postponed.
Those postponements include the Niagara-Orleans League Roy-Hart at Medina, Newfane at Albion and Barker at Wilson games along with the CSAT at Lyndonville non league contest.
The Tonawanda at Albion non league baseball game has also been postponed.
