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Major General from Holley will speak at upcoming Patriot Trip

Posted 6 August 2026 at 11:00 am

Assemblyman Hawley announces Joseph Lestorti will address local veterans at Washington, D.C.

Press Release, Assemblyman Steve Hawley

Provided photo: Major General Joseph Lestorti has served 33 years with the U.S. military.

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) announced that Major General Joseph Lestorti will serve as a guest speaker during this year’s Patriot Trip to Washington, D.C., taking place Sept. 17 to 20.

The annual trip provides participants with the opportunity to visit some of the nation’s most historic landmarks honoring the men and women who have served our country.

A native of Holley in Orleans County and a graduate of SUNY Brockport, Major General Lestorti has dedicated more than 33 years of commissioned service to the United States military. His distinguished career as an infantry officer includes command assignments at every level from platoon to division, with leadership roles in the 82nd Airborne Division, Joint Special Operations Command and U.S. Army North, as well as service with the U.S. Department of State. He currently serves as director of the Inter-American Defense College at U.S. Southern Command.

This year’s trip itinerary will include visits to the World War II Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery. The trip will also feature a special Saturday evening dinner held at Spates Hall on Fort Myer Joint Base.

“This year’s Patriot Trip is a great opportunity to honor the sacrifices of our nation’s veterans while bringing members of our community together to experience these important landmarks firsthand,” said Hawley. “Having Major General Lestorti join us will make this year’s trip especially meaningful. His journey from Orleans County to a distinguished career serving our nation is an inspiring example of dedication, leadership and service.”

Thanks to the generosity of community members, local businesses and organizations, the expected cost of the trip is approximately $450 to $500 per person with transportation, lodging and scheduled activities included.

There are currently 20 seats remaining for this year’s Patriot Trip. Those interested in attending are encouraged to register by Aug. 10.

To reserve one of the remaining seats or receive additional information, contact Hawley’s office at 585-589-5780 or email hawleys@nyassembly.gov.

Orleans County 4-H Fair attendance topped 23,000

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 5 August 2026 at 10:46 pm

New events and popular mainstays kept fairgrounds busy

Photos by Tom Rivers

KNOWLESVILLE – A group of inflatable costumed characters walks to the starting line for a race on July 30 at the horse arena. There were 17 participants in the race which was won by the French Bulldog, Rachel Livingston of Albion. It was one of several popular new events at the Orleans County 4-H Fair.

The attendance for the six-day fair totaled 23,379, which is down just slightly from a typical year. The biggest attendance in recent years was in 2021, when the fair recorded 27,700 visitors.

Robert Batt, executive director of the Cornell Cooperative Extension, said he is pleased with the turnout from the community for the fair.

He said some rain plus cloudy weather on Tuesday and Wednesday likely deterred some people from coming for those days.

“Generally we all thought it was a great fair,” Batt said.

He praised a team of about 130 volunteers who donate their time to make the fair a success.

Orleans is one of only four youth fairs in the state. Niagara also has a youth fair, which is this week.

Bert Mathes, the assistant fair manager, gets drenched on Saturday with a big bucket of water from Marty Zwifka, the fair manager. Mathes was among the volunteers who were willing to be part of a dunk bucket fundraiser.

There were 14 people in the fundraiser throughout the fair. Kristin McAdoo, the Ridgeway deputy fire chief, raised the most money at $198, which was $2 more than Robert Batt, the Cornell Cooperative Extension executive director.

The dunk bucket raised about $800 for the Orleans County Jr. Fair Committee. It was one of several new events at the fair.

Ruth Kuipers, 16, of Byron leads her steer named “Dude” towards the show ring during the 4-H Market Auction last Friday. The auction set a new record at the Orleans County 4-H Fair with 98 lots totaling $213,031.

That is a big jump from last year’s $139,852, which also set a new record. Before that the high was $64,128 in 2024. The total has now more than tripled in two years.

Five years ago, when Ruth had a steer in the auction, the total for all of the lots in the auction was about $20,000, just a tenth of the sales from Friday’s auction.

The fair for the first time included professional wrestlers from the Empire State Wrestling. There were nine matches at the Curtis Pavilion, including the opening bout with Jay Blast against Anthony Musso. In this photo, Musso has Blast up high and gets ready to slam him to the mat.

These kids are excited to have a front row seat to watch professional wrestlers at the Orleans County 4-H Fair on Aug. 1. In this match, Anthony Musso defeated Jay Blast.

Karaoke was popular from Monday through Thursday at the fair, with the finals on Thursday. The top five singers from left included Asher Dix, first place, with “I Want You Back” by the Jackson 5; Gideon Pask, second place, with “Folsom Prison Blues” by Johnny Cash; Tiana Mortensen, third place, with “Lose Control” by Teddy Swims; Brittany Dix, fourth place, with “Looking Out” by Brandi Carlile; Olivia Manfredi, fifth place, with “(If You’re Not in It For Love) I’m Outta Here” by Shania Twain.

The fair made a big change on Friday night by trying a laser show instead of the traditional fireworks. Batt, the CCE executive director, said there was good feedback about the laser show, but many people missed seeing the fireworks.

The Fair Board made the change because the fireworks, with the loud booms and explosions, were hard on many of the animals at the fair, especially the horses. Fireworks also can be very stressful for people with PTSD, Batt said.

“We are gauging the response to it,” he said about the change to the laser show and whether fireworks will be back next year.

Erica Wanecski of Medina tosses a rubber chicken 35 feet, 10 inches in a contest at the fair that was back for the second year. Austin Seefeldt had the farthest throw at 102 feet.

Firefighters from several departments in Orleans County helped at the Senior Council Stand on Friday, grilling and serving food. Some of the volunteers included Fred Piano, right and Robert Toman from the Albion Fire Department. At left is Emmanuel Cornell of the Clarendon Volunteer Fire Company, who is also a 4-Her. Next to him is Nick Boyle from the East Shelby Volunteer Fire Company.

Oak Orchard Lighthouse Museum plans Aug. 29 ‘Lyrics and the Lighthouse’ fundraiser

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 5 August 2026 at 9:10 pm

Photo by Tom Rivers: The Oak Orchard Lighthouse is shown on Aug. 14, 2025 during a light show. The 32-foot-high lighthouse was built in 2010.

POINT BREEZE – The Oak Orchard Lighthouse Museum’s annual fundraising event will feature an evening of music, along with the usual extraordinary dessert buffet.

From 6 to 9 p.m. on Aug. 29 at the Carlton United Methodist Church, the Lighthouse Museum will sponsor “Lyrics and the Lighthouse,” featuring performances by local musicians, Lily Brigham, Hannah Brewer, Shannon Vanderlaan and Andy & Mindy.

There will also be raffles, in addition to desserts and live music.

While raising money to build the lighthouse was an enormous community effort, it is also necessary to raise funds to maintain it, according to board president Chris Manaseri. He added the Lighthouse has an annual budget of $5,500, of which more than half goes to insurance and tax reporting. He said their revenue comes from fundraisers, donations and gift shop sales.

In the past the museum has sponsored dinners, raffles and talks centered around Lake Ontario, including several presentations by shipwreck hunter Jim Kennard.

For the past three years, the fundraiser has taken place at the Carlton United Methodist Church, on the corner of Archibald Road and Route 18, where Larry Grimes is not only a member, but an incredible pastry chef. His array of delectable desserts has become a popular addition to Lighthouse fundraisers.

Tickets for the evening are $25 at the door or $20 presale and can be purchased at OONA summer concerts at the Marine Park, or by calling (585) 230-7829

The history of the Oak Orchard Lighthouse goes back to 1871 when there were two piers in the harbor at Point Breeze and a lighthouse was built on west pier. It was in service from 1871 to 1916, when a violent storm took it into the lake.

Fast forward to 2002 when Peg and Richard Wiley moved to a marina on Route 98, just south of the Orleans County Marine Park. Peg was interested in the area which had become her new home and started researching its history.

When she discovered there used to be a lighthouse at Point Breeze, she realized the potential for tourism, and thought why hasn’t anyone ever attempted to rebuild one?

She contacted Dick Anderson, who lived in the former lighthouse keeper’s home at the end of Archibald Road. In the summer of 2003, they and several other interested citizens met under the bridge in the Marine Park to discuss a new lighthouse.

The Oak Orchard Lighthouse Museum was chartered in 2004 to raise funds to rebuild the lighthouse. The first public meeting took place at the Carlton Recreation Hall, where a model of a lighthouse built by Anderson was on display.

Original members of the board, besides Wiley, Anderson and Diane Blanchard (who are still board), Cheryl Staines, Dan and Marietta Schuth, Diana Jeffords and Jamie Kowalski. Other supporters who soon joined in were Joan Higley, Kim Remley and Ginny Kropf.

The lighthouse was completed with donations by individuals, families and businesses, fundraising events, grants and a member item from former State Sen. George Maziarz and Assemblyman Steve Hawley.

A memorial walkway composed of hundreds of bricks sponsored by donors, was installed and sponsors were sought for the compass rose and benches crafted from Medina Sandstone. The benches were created by internationally known stone craftsman, George Graham of Oakfield. A Children’s Peace Garden was installed with plantings beneficial to migratory bird populations that pass through the area. Volunteers maintain it.

Most importantly, according to their website, a building will be acquired or constructed near Point Breeze to serve as the physical Museum, housing documents, photos, exhibits and memorabilia related to the general and maritime history of Point Breeze, Oak Orchard Harbor, and the surrounding region.

The Grove UMC in Medina starting a community choir

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 5 August 2026 at 8:49 pm

MEDINA – Walking down Main Street, Pastor Barb Brewer from The Grove United Methodist Church couldn’t help hearing the music playing and thinking how nice it would be to have a community choir.

“Then I was driving home through the swamp when God spoke to my heart. ‘Put this choir together.’”

The pastor went home and started thinking about forming a singing group similar to those showcased in other communities, such as Lockport and Middleport. She took her idea to her friend, Edward “Eddie” Reeb, a graduate of Roberts Wesleyan College’s music program and director of the Lockport Chorale.

Brewer is planning an informational meeting at 7 p.m. Aug. 19 in the sanctuary of The Grove United Methodist Church, 11004 West Center St., for anyone who is interested in forming a Medina Community Choir.

“I already have a director and an accompanist,” Brewer said. “Mr. Reeb has agreed to direct a newly-formed choral group here in Medina.”

She also reached out to Tom Wenhold of Lyndonville, organist at the First Presbyterian Church of Lyndonville, who has agreed to join the effort as accompanist.

Plans are to present three community concerts a year – in spring, fall and at Christmas.

“So come one, come all and sing your hearts out for your community and beyond,” Brewer urges.

County issues proclamation for Child Support Awareness Month

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 5 August 2026 at 4:45 pm

Photo by Tom Rivers

ALBION – Orleans County Legislator Fred Miller reads a proclamation last week where the County Legislature proclaimed August as Child Support Awareness Month in Orleans County.

From left from the Department of Social Services include Commissioner Shirley Mazourek, Child Support Specialist Corina DeFilipps, and Senior Child Support Specialist Danielle Kickbush.

In the proclamation, legislators state that the county is committed to ensuring the safety, health and well-being of children.

“Parents have the most critical role in the development of their children, and an obligation to provide safe, loving and secure environments in which their children can grow and flourish,” the proclamation states.

Parents have an obligation to support their children, financially and emotionally, legislators said.

The county’s Child Support Enforcement Program and child support professionals play a vital role in assisting parents in achieving and maintaining economic security for their children, the proclamation states.

Local Republican advocated in DC for clean energy, and facing challenges of climate change

Posted 5 August 2026 at 4:05 pm

Editor:

Last month, I traveled to Washington, D.C., with Citizens’ Climate Lobby to join hundreds of Americans from across the country in meetings with members of Congress and their staff.

During CCL’s Conference and Lobby Day on Capitol Hill, I met with the office of Congresswoman Claudia Tenney and other members of Congress around the state to discuss policies that can strengthen America’s energy future while addressing the challenges of climate change.

As a lifelong Republican who lives on a farm in a rural farming community, I understand how closely our livelihoods are tied to the natural world. Farmers know that stewardship is a responsibility and that taking care of our land, water, and air is something that should unite us, not divide us.

I encouraged Congress to support permitting reform that makes it easier to build the infrastructure our country needs for cleaner, more efficient and affordable domestic energy. Efficient permitting processes can help unlock investment, create jobs, and improve our energy security. I also support market-based policies that ensure American businesses can compete fairly while encouraging innovation and cleaner production.

As a Republican and a member of Citizens’ Climate Lobby, I believe in the Republican conservation tradition championed by Theodore Roosevelt and Richard Nixon. Conservation, innovation, and free enterprise are not competing ideas—they are complementary strengths that can help America build a stronger economy while protecting the resources that sustain us. That’s the message I was proud to bring to Capitol Hill.

Rob Johnson

Medina

New deputy sheriff completes academy, begins field training

Posted 5 August 2026 at 3:36 pm

Provided photos: Orleans County Sheriff’s Deputy Angel Cruz Cruz, an Albion graduate, has graduated from the Niagara County Law Enforcement Training Academy. He is shown at right with Chief Deputy Torry Tooley and Orleans County Sheriff Chris Bourke.

Press Release, Orleans County Sheriff’s Office

Sheriff Christopher M. Bourke is pleased to announce that Deputy Angel Cruz Cruz graduated from the Niagara County Law Enforcement Training Academy on July 31.

Deputy Cruz Cruz will continue the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office’s comprehensive Field Training Program, where he will work alongside experienced Field Training Officers as he continues his transition into patrol operations.

Sheriff Bourke extends his appreciation to Sheriff Michael J. Filicetti, the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office, and the Niagara County Law Enforcement Academy for their continued partnership in training and preparing the next generation of Orleans County Deputy Sheriffs.

Fair was great chance to connect with conservation-minded people

Posted 5 August 2026 at 12:26 pm

Editor:

It was encouraging to interact with so many people who “get it” at the Orleans County 4-H Fair recently. While serving at the Orleans Bluebird Society booth, I encountered many folks who had stories to tell about orioles, pileated woodpeckers, bluebirds, native sparrows, rose-breasted grosbeaks, cedar waxwings and numerous others.

People from as far away as Dallas and Houston had stories to tell about the reality of climate change. One guy told me it was over 102 degrees and 98 percent humidity in Houston as we spoke.

The Orleans County Federation of outdoor sports clubs had the conservation cabin all decked out. And that black bear was something to see—and be seen with.

Thanks to folks such as Mike Elam for another job well done. And kudos to his wife Krys for being so supportive of his efforts.

Sincerely,

Gary Kent

Albion

Hoag Library director to retire with Elizabeth Haibach appointed new leader

Posted 5 August 2026 at 12:10 pm

Reception planned for Saturday to celebrate Betty Sue Miller and welcome Haibach

File photos by Tom Rivers: Hoag Library staff met two young patrons by an ox statue on March 17, 2025 when the library celebrated its 125th anniversary in the community. Brothers Mikey Madison, 11, in blue shirt and Timmy Madison, 8, were happy to try some of the cookies given out for the library birthday. The staff pictured include, from left: Michael Magnuson, Adult Services librarian; Betty Sue Miller, director; and Elizabeth Haibach, assistant director.

Press Release, Hoag Library

ALBION – The Board of Trustees of Hoag Library of Albion announce the retirement of Director Betty Sue Miller, effective August 7, after more than a decade of distinguished service.

Miller will be succeeded by Elizabeth Archer Haibach, who is being promoted from her role as assistant director.

Since joining Hoag Library as an interim director in February 2015, then becoming director, Miller has been instrumental in strengthening the library’s role as a vital community resource. Her dedication to public library service has earned recognition across the region: in May 2025, Miller received the Outstanding Service Award from the Nioga Library System, recognizing her exceptional leadership and dedication to public library service across Niagara, Orleans, and Genesee counties. In 2021, she was honored with a Genean Award from GO ART!, further testament to her commitment to the community.

A 1970 graduate of Albion High School, Miller brought both deep community roots and professional expertise to the role. She holds a Master’s degree in Library Science and has a rich background in library service, including teaching in Albion schools and serving as a librarian at Holley High School. A lifelong Albion resident, Miller and her husband, Fred—a county legislator and former owner of Family Hardware—have two adult children and have been integral members of the community.

Betty Sue Miller gives blood on Dec. 17, 2022 during a blood drive at the library. Miller has welcomed blood drives and many other programs into the library.

After taking a few weeks to rest and recharge, Miller will return to Hoag Library in a part-time capacity, focusing on special projects that will help shape the library’s future. This transition allows the library to benefit from her continued expertise while giving her the opportunity to step back from daily operations.

Elizabeth Archer Haibach brings enthusiasm and a passion for public service to her new role as Director. Born in Albion, Elizabeth spent part of her childhood living in Mexico and Central America before returning to Orleans County. A proud graduate of Albion Central School’s Class of 2006, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from SUNY Brockport and a Master of Library Science from the University at Buffalo.

Elizabeth’s family has deep roots in the community, including her grandparents’ longtime businesses, Archer Lumber and Barre Animal Hospital. Before beginning her library career, she worked as a Program Assistant for Agri-Business Child Development at Batavia.

She joined Hoag Library as the Reference Librarian and was later promoted to Assistant Director. Outside of the library, Elizabeth enjoys reading historical nonfiction, exploring local history, and is an active member of the Orleans Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution. On sunny days, she can often be found behind the wheel of her ’68 Dodge Super Bee. She is honored to serve the community she has always called home and looks forward to building on Hoag Library’s tradition of exceptional service, lifelong learning, and community engagement.

Hoag Library director Betty Sue Miller, back left, and assistant director Elizabeth Haibach meet with the board of trustees following the annual meeting at the library on May 6, 2024. They shared data from 2023 that showed total circulation for books and non-books was 42,898 – with 32,323 books and 10,575 non-books.

“Betty Sue Miller’s retirement marks the end of an extraordinary era of leadership at Hoag Library,” said Linda Weller, Board President of Hoag Library of Albion. “Her vision, dedication, and deep commitment to our community have transformed the library into a thriving hub for learning, growth, and connection. We are deeply grateful for her service. At the same time, we are excited about the future under Elizabeth’s leadership. Elizabeth brings fresh energy, community ties, and a genuine passion for library service. We are confident that she will honor Betty Sue’s legacy while bringing her own innovative ideas and talents to the role.”

Haibach officially assumes the role of director on Aug. 8. The transition represents both continuity of the library’s mission and an exciting new chapter for Hoag Library of Albion.

The community is invited to celebrate Betty Sue Miller’s remarkable career and welcome Elizabeth Haibach as the new director at a reception on Saturday, Aug. 8, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hoag Library. Light refreshments will be served. No RSVP is required—everyone is welcome to stop by.

Medina man admits to cocaine possession, could face 2 years in state prison

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 5 August 2026 at 11:22 am

ALBION – A Medina man pleaded guilty in Orleans County Court this morning to criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree.

Milton Hinckley IV, 32, admitted to having cocaine on Jan. 23 when he was stopped in a vehicle in Medina by the Medina Police Department. The cocaine weighed 1.07 ounces.

Hinckley faced other drug and traffic charges, including aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. His plea in County Court today satisfies all charges against him.

He could face up to 2 years in state prison when he is sentenced on Sept. 30.

In another case today in County Court, a Newfane man facing several charges, including first-degree arson, appeared on a bail hearing.

Marquis Harrell, 22, allegedly went to the mother of his children’s residence in Albion early Saturday and threw a Molotov cocktail at the home, causing charring and siding damage, said Daniel Punch, assistant district attorney.

Harrell also faces charges of criminal mischief in the first degree, four counts of reckless endangerment in the first degree, two counts of endangering the welfare, criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, and two counts of criminal contempt.

Harrell is represented by public defender Joanne Best. She said Harrell may likely have been “overcharged” in the case with first-degree arson.

“Is there sufficient evidence to charge him with what is alleged?” Best said in court today.

Punch said there are threatening text messages from Harrell to the victim and photos showing the damage to the residence.

Even if the charge was attempted arson, Punch said that is a serious enough charge to hold Harrell on bail.

Best asked that Harrell be released on his own recognizance without being held on bail.

Punch acknowledged Harrell has a limited criminal history but also faces a pending criminal mischief charge in Royalton. Punch asked the judge to set bail at $10,000 cash. Judge Sanford Church agreed to that amount of cash bail, or $20,000 bond or $50,000 partially secured bond.

The judge also is continuing orders of protection for the victims of the alleged crime.

National Night Out connects first responders, agencies with community

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 5 August 2026 at 8:24 am

Photos by Tom Rivers

MEDINA – Medina firefighters Brian Bates (left), a paramedic/firefighter, and Lt. Jake Crooks hand out plastic firefighter helmets to kids at the National Night Out on Tuesday outside the Clifford Wise Intermediate School. Medina firefighters also gave bags with fire prevention tips for kids.

Medina hosted the National Night Out for the fifth time on Tuesday, and drew several hundred people. First responders and agencies from throughout the county were there to run activities and answer questions from residents.

Paul Urquart, a Medina firefighter, helps Jace Boyle, 10, of Medina aim a fire hose at a target.

Mila McAdoo, 4, of Medina throws a ball at the dunk tank target. She was able to get Shawn Ramsey, owner of Canalside Tattoo Company, to plunge into the water.

Christy Gross, who works at a salon at the Walmart in Albion, gives Blair, age 5, a haircut. Gross offered free haircuts during National Night Out.

Orleans County Sheriff’s deputy Jeff Cole and Odin, the department’s K9, did demonstrations during NNO. Odin has been trained and is certified for drug detection, tracking and searches.

Sherrie Bensley, public health educator for GO Health, serves pizza that was donated by Mark’s Pizzeria. Mark’s donated 20 sheet pizzas for the event.

Bensley was co-chair of the NNO Committee with Diana Fulcomer of UConnectCare. Other committee members include Alishia Foss and Taryn Moyle of Community Action, Jess Marciano of the Village of Medina, and Danielle Figura of the Orleans County Mental Health Department.

Bensley said National Night Out builds connections in the community.

“I think it’s very important for our youth to see our first responders in action and form a relationship,” she said. “They see they are the good guys.”

Taryn Moyle, Alishia Foss and Danielle Figura were busy serving pizza donated by Mark’s. The pizza was a change from previous years when hot dogs were given out for free.

This kid fires a fastball at the dunk tank target, trying to get Shawn Ramsey wet.

Fire departments and law enforcement agencies gave people a chance to see equipment up close.

Medina Mustangs FC upsets top seeded Buffalo Italia FC in playoff semifinals

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 5 August 2026 at 6:18 am

Coming up with a HUGE victory, the No. 6 seed Medina Mustangs FC upset top seeded Buffalo Italia FC 1-0 in the semifinal round of the Buffalo District Soccer League championship Division playoffs Tuesday evening at Buffalo State.

Jameson Eisenhauer scored the lone goal for Medina off a quick corner kick by Cole Callard with less than five minutes to go in the first half.

The Mustangs defense anchored by Tyler Ribbbeck in goal did the rest. Ribbeck made a huge save with five minutes to go in the second half to preserve the narrow upset victory.

The defensive stalworts also included Caleb Suckow and Zak Rowekamp who both played a full 90 minutes at center back.

Medina will now face the winner of today’s semifinal between No. 2 Ukraine and No. 5 Sporting Cavs in the playoff championship game on Sunday at 4:45 p.m. at Nichols School in Buffalo.

Medina improves to 6-4-2 while Buffalo Italia finishes the season at 9-1-1.

The Mustangs also tied with Buffalo Italia 2-2 in the regular season finale.