Press Release, The Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council
BATAVIA – Do you know an artist or organization from Genesee or Orleans County that deserves recognition for their accomplishments in 2025? GO Art! is inviting community members to submit nominations for the annual Genean awards.
“Why ‘Genean’ you ask?” says Executive Director, Gregory Hallock, “Well, simply put, we decided that we needed to have our own unique awards (like the Oscars or Tony awards) for GENesee and OrlEANs counties, to recognize a few of the amazing people and organizations we have within our counties.”
The categories for nomination are as follows:
• Organization of the Year – This award honors a not-for-profit or for-profit arts organization for its outstanding achievements in 2025
• Individual Artist of the Year – This award honors an individual artist in any discipline for their achievements in 2025 or career-long body of work
• Arts and Culture Supporter of the Year – This award honors an individual or an organization outside of the arts and cultural sector for their work directly aiding in the arts and/or cultural sector during 2025.
To submit a nomination visit www.goart.org/genean. All nominations are due by March 1, 2026.
Last year’s winners included Organization of the Year, Dance Theater in Medina led by Brandon Johnson; Supporter (of the cultural sector) of the Year, Eden Cafe (Judy Hysek), Individual Artist of the Year, Mary Jo Whitman; Volunteer(s) of the Year, The Beatty Bro’s; Lifetime Achievement, The Batavia Concert Band.
On February 2, Stream US Data Centers hosted an “Open House – Community Information Session” at the Town of Alabama Fire Hall regarding the massive data center complex they are applying to build at WNY STAMP in Alabama. Here are our takeaways.
1) The event was structured so that all conversations between Stream employees and members of the public happened one on one or in small groups. The room was set up like a science fair, with numerous display boards arranged in a large circle. After signing in, members of the public were encouraged to walk around looking at the displays and talking with the specific Stream employees at each of the displays. Many glossy informational handouts were available to take home.
2) There was no large group presentation by Stream and no opportunity for members of the public to ask their questions in front of the whole group.
3) The event was well attended (about 75 people total over the course of two hours) and, from our observations and the conversations we overheard, most people seemed to be opposed to the proposed data center or to have significant concerns. This perception is reflected in the media coverage, see “Most attendees at Stream Data Center information session remain opposed to project” in The Batavian on Feb. 3 as an example.
4) A number of GCEDC staff and board, as well as local elected officials and Town employees, were present. They mostly stayed in a circle in the corner of the room, talking amongst themselves.
5) There were very few chairs and finding a place to sit down was difficult. This presented challenges for numerous attendees and also discouraged group conversation.
6) Stream provided comment postcards with a two lines of space to write in comments. No information was provided on other structured opportunities for asking questions, sharing concerns, or discussing the project with other community members. We were not proactively told about the review process.
Overall:
We were disappointed by the event.
We had hoped for an opportunity to hear a comprehensive presentation from Stream, and instead we had to ask for information in piecemeal conversations.
We wanted a chance to hear our neighbors’ questions and ask our questions in front of a large group so that others could hear our questions and concerns.
We were disappointed that GCEDC and local elected officials did not come over to talk with us.
We were disappointed that Stream did not share more details about their plans for “community engagement” and we assume this means they aren’t actually interested in hearing from the community that would be most impacted by the monster data center. We assume they held the Open House so they could check the box on community engagement.
Let’s tell Stream: hold an actual public meeting.
Stream says they plan to hold another open house during the week of February 23. We don’t want another science fair setup. Stream says they want to hear from us. So let’s tell them to change the format – we want an actual presentation on their plans, with time for questions and answers from the audience. Submit a comment on their website today!
Then, join Allies of TSN for an open, honest conversation about the data center plan
We know Stream isn’t telling us the whole story. But we’re trying to educate ourselves and each other. If you’d like to learn more and be part of our conversation, join us!
Desserts and Data Center Discussions #4 with Allies of Tonawanda Seneca Nation. February 18 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Richmond Memorial Library at 19 Ross St. in Batavia.
No prior knowledge is needed to join and all perspectives are welcome. There will be light refreshments, and you’re welcome to bring a sweet treat to share. It is open to all so please invite your friends, family and neighbors to talk about what our community truly needs — and what we want to see at that site. For more info, see Allies of TSN and STOP the STAMP Monster Data Center on Facebook or call/text us at (585) 300-4925.
By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 14 February 2026 at 1:47 pm
Photos by Cheryl Wertman – Albion’s Elijah Doxey goes in to score what proved to be the game winning three point play as CJ D’Agostino defends for Kendall. The Purple Eagles rallied with a big fourth quarter to nip the Eagles 62-61.
Putting together a huge fourth quarter comeback, Albion rallied to nip visiting Kendall 62-61 In a non league boys basketball game this afternoon.
Trailing by 15, 52-37, at the end of the third period, Albion rallied to outscore Kendall 25-9 in the decisive final quarter including a big 17-2 closing run to claim the wild win.
Still down by 14, 59-45, the Purple Eagles got back into the game with a key 9-0 run, including five by Elijah Doxey and four by Tyler Cody, to cut the deficit to 59-54.
Vinnie D’Agostino interrupted with a basket for Kendall upping the lead back to seven at 61-54, but the Eagles could not score again.
Albion got free throws by Adam Burgio and Elliot Trapiss to make it a two possession, 61-56, game setting the stage for a dramatic final 20 seconds.
Wesley Olles hit a big three with 17 seconds remaining to pull Albion to within two at 61-59.
The Purple Eagles then capped off the big comeback win on a steal and lay-up by Doxey which he converted into a game winning three point play with 14 seconds to go.
Doxey finished with a game high 22 points, including 12 in the fourth quarter, as Cody had 14, Nate Gibson 11, Olles 8, Burgio 4, Ezra Bloom 2 and Trapiss 1.
Tyler Cody puts up a shot in traffic for Albion as Vinnie D’Agostino (10) and Noah Morehouse (22) defend for Kendall.
All five starters hit double figures for Kendall as CJ D’Agostino had 16, Noah Morehouse 14, Vinnie D’Agostino 11 and Sammy Conte and Jonny Conte 10 each.
Kendall jumped out to a 16-4 first quarter lead as CJ D’Agostino had 8 and Morehouse and Sammy Conte 4 each.
The Eagles went on to lead by margins of 11, 29-18, at the half and by 15, 52-37, at the three-quarter mark. Jonny Conte had 6 in the second period while Morehouse had 8 and CJ D’Agostino 6 in the third quarter.
However, Albion caught fire in the final period as 12 points by Doxey, 6 by Cody and a big 3 by Olles sparked the Purple Eagles successful comeback bid.
Albion finishes the regular season at 10-9.
Kendall is now 12-6 with two Genesee Region League games remaining next week at home against Lyndonville on Monday and at Notre Dame on Wednesday.
Holley 58. Oakfield-Alabama 53
Holley trimmed visiting Oakfield-Alabama 58-53 in a G-R game this afternoon as Blake Coleman had 6 key points, including a three, to put the Hawks on top in the fourth quarter.
Josh Silpoch scored 20 and Avante Walker 14 to lead Holley.
Jonny Conte puts up a shot for Kendall against Albion defender Adam Burgio.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 14 February 2026 at 1:43 pm
Photos by Tom Rivers: Rollin Hellner speaks during a Jan. 29 Medina Village Board held at the high school auditorium. At the meeting he faulted the board for poor planning with the purchase of a new ladder truck without having a spot to place it. During the meeting Hellner said he was running for mayor in the March 18 election, but he decided not to seek the position and is instead backing Deborah Padoleski, a retired village clerk-treasurer and current trustee. Padoleski on Feb. 9 made the motion to declare the ladder truck surplus, and two other trustees backed that motion.
MEDINA – Rollin Hellner’s supporters have his signs around Medina, urging people to vote for him for mayor and “Make Medina Greater” on March 18.
But Hellner ultimately decided not to pursue the position. Tuesday was the deadline for submitting petitions signed by at least 100 registered voters in Medina. Hellner, 32, said he had enough signatures but is instead throwing his support behind Deborah Padoleski.
That makes it a two-person race with Padoleski against current Mayor Marguerite Sherman.
Hellner, owner of The Walsh, also owns a property development business. He said he didn’t want to split votes with Padoleski, who he said shares a similar goal as mayor. When Hellner announced his campaign for mayor, he said he didn’t know Padoleski also was planning to run.
He shares Padoleski’s position that the village didn’t do enough planning with the new ladder truck and fire hall addition, and its high taxes are driving out residents and discouraging businesses from investing in Medina.
“We have similar views,” Hellner said today about Padoleski. “A lot of business owners are frustrated with the current administration. And the taxes are just burying people.”
Hellner said village officials can come across as picking favorites and not always being fair in applying the rules.
He said the board and village government need to develop a plan for addressing the aging water and sewer lines, and also the sidewalks in disrepair.
He regrets Medina is now in the news around Western New York about the ladder truck and not having a permanent place to put it. The truck was in the compost facility and now will go to the DPW garage which is heated – until the board decides whether to sell it or keep it.
“The fire truck gets a lot of press coverage and it’s embarrassing,” Hellner said. “People see the division on board that’s not the Medina I came here for.”
He believes Padoleski can be a strong agent of change in bringing down the tax burden and helping to unify the village government.
Hellner has encouraged people who have campaign signs out for him to swap them out once the new ones arrive for Padoleski.
Sherman has been the mayor for nearly two years. She announced on Jan. 29 she wants to form a Long-Term Strategic Planning Committee to focus on Medina’s short and long-term infrastructure needs, financial sustainability, and responsible growth while preserving the character of our village.
Padoleski is running as a team with trustee candidates, Mark Prawel and Jeff Wagner. They are running under the “People’s Party.” Sherman is running under the “Village Party.”
Another candidate, Dean Bellack, is running for trustee under the “Connect Orleans Party.”
Medina’s local election don’t have the major political parties. Candidates instead pick an independent party line.
The Medina Village Board is shown during a meeting on Jan. 29 in the high school auditorium. From left include Trustee Deborah Padoleski, Trustee Jess Marciano, Village Clerk-Treasurer Jada Burgess, Mayor Marguerite Sherman, Trustee Mark Prawel and Trustee Scott Bieliski.
Photos courtesy of Assemblyman Hawley’s Office: Assemblyman Steve Hawley picked up valentines created by students at Jackson Primary School in Batavia and delivered those valentines to residents at the New York State Veterans Home at Batavia.
Press Release, Assemblyman Steve Hawley
BATAVIA – Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) continued his annual Valentines for Veterans initiative, bringing together local students and veteran residents at the New York State Veterans Home at Batavia.
Handmade cards created by students at Jackson Primary School were gathered and delivered in person to the veterans.
“This event is a great opportunity every year to show my appreciation for our veterans and all of the sacrifices they have made to keep us free,” said Hawley. “As a veteran myself, the son of a veteran and a member of the Assembly Veterans Affairs Committee, I know the hard work and dedication these brave men and women have given over the years, and I hope events like this can serve as a way to give back.”
Hawley began the visit at Jackson Primary School, stopping by Mrs. Megan Harloff’s first grade and Mrs. Melissa Mattice’s kindergarten classes to talk with students about veterans and the six branches of the military while thanking them for their thoughtful valentines.
The day concluded at the New York State Veterans Home at Batavia, where Hawley personally handed out the valentines and expressed gratitude to residents for their service.
“This program connects students with our veterans, and in turn, our veterans receive messages of gratitude, such as ‘Thank you for your service,’” Hawley added. “It’s a truly rewarding experience for everyone involved.”
This evocative sign was mercifully saved from the garbage pile by Erica Joan Wanescki who donated it to the Medina Historical Society.
By Catherine Cooper, Orleans County History
“Illuminating Orleans” – Volume 6, No. 4
The Bishop Nursing Home in Medina, Rose Villa Nursing Home in Albion, the Rembrandt Nursing Home in Kendall are but a few of the Orleans County facilities that provided residential care for elderly and incapacitated patients from the 1930s to the 1970s.
Variously referred to as “convalescent homes,” “care homes” or “old-age homes,” they were privately owned and operated. Usually located in larger houses, the number of patients depended on how many bedrooms could be reconfigured and could range from 5 to 30.
In many cases the homeowners were nurses. Additional nursing staff were employed to cover shifts and nighttime hours. Doctors visited on a regular schedule and patient records were kept.
Patient care was provided in a homestyle setting. Meals were home-cooked, residents who were not bedridden could socialize in a common area. Family members or outside hired help assisted with housekeeping tasks.
The Holley Standard of June 15, 1954, contains an account of a new facility, the Birner Nursing Home in Kendall:
“After considerable remodeling and installations to conform with state laws, including the addition of a fire escape, the home is now ready for occupants. The patients will have the entire second floor, including a small sitting room of their own and a total of 12 patients can be taken care of. Mr. and Mrs. Binder and their two daughters will live downstairs”
The evolution of this era of public health care is complex. The concept of public responsibility for the care of the indigent had long been established and had evolved through various phases. By the beginning of the 20th century, the poorhouse model of care was under stress. Poverty rates among the elderly increased after the Depression and it was estimated that over 50% had insufficient income to support themselves.
The groundbreaking Social Security Act of 1935 provided a cash income to the elderly poor. However, the act prohibited the payment of cash to any “inmate of a public institution,” as a result of financial irregularities uncovered at almshouses and infirmaries. At that same time, many homeowners had lost their means of income and thus private nursing homes evolved.
The Medina Daily Journal, June 15, 1959 printed this ad for Green Acres Nursing Home in Albion.
We searched through obituary listings on www.nyshistoricnewspapers.org to compile this list:
ALBION
Doloway Nursing Home
Green Acres Nursing Home
Hughsen Nursing Home
Pagel’s Nursing Home
Parker Nursing Home
Rose Villa Nursing Home aka Hazard Nursing Home
BARRE
Waldo Nursing Home
CARLTON
Young’s Nursing Home
HOLLEY
Ethel DeVoe Nursing Home
Lynch Nursing Home
KENDALL
Birner Nursing Home
Rembrandt Nursing Home
MEDINA
Bishop Nursing Home
Casey Nursing Home
Poler Nursing Home
Timmy’s (Timmerman’s) Adult Home
This home care nursing home model was all but phased out by the early 1970s as the State Health Department imposed more stringent requirements.
Mrs. Gertude Patterson, operator of the Bishop Nursing Home in Medina, observed that they were being forced out oof business.
“Rocky (Nelson Rockefeller, (Gov. NYS 1959-1973) got a grant for state-owned nursing homes, so they are trying to force us little ones out of business so they can build big hospital type nursing homes.” (MDJ 8-10-1968)
On June 28, 1969, William Knights, Jr. presided over an auction of the “Entire Household Goods and Supplies” of “The Bishop.” Included were 24 hospital beds, 12 antique rockers, 12 regular rockers, 7, fire extinguishers, night bells, hospital commodes and “many other articles, too numerous to mention.”
(Special thanks to Mrs. Jean Cardone for her recollections. We welcome any additional information, photographs, etc. Send to Catherine.cooper@orleanscountyny.gov)
By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 13 February 2026 at 9:43 pm
Photos by Cheryl Wertman – Medina’s Caliyah St. Louis puts up a shot against Newfane defenders Emma Johnston (23) and Julia Leibring (11) during the Mustangs narrow win over the visiting Lady Panthers this evening.
Rebounding from an early 12 point deficit, Medina rallied to nip visiting Newfane 55-53 in the Niagara-Orleans League girls basketball season finale.
Trailing 20-8, Medina got back into the game by putting together a big 17-4 scoring urge to rally into a 25-24 lead at the half.
Alexa Demmer had 6 points and Samantha Heschke hit a 3 to lead that rally which also included baskets by Tatianna Maxon, Roswyn Oakes, Harmoni Wilson and Caliyah St. Louis.
The contest was deadlocked at 39-39 at the end of the third period as Newfane closed with a 6-0 run on baskets b Emma Johnston, Ah-Leena Golden and Taylor Kempton.
Golden had 8 in the period for the Lady Panthers while Maxon tallied 7 for the Mustangs.
Medina grabbed a 44-39 lead at the outset of the decisive final period on a two and a three by St. Louis.
Newfane did rally back into a tie twice, at 44-44 and again at 46-46, but could not regain the lead.
A three by Demmer put Medina back on top to stay at 49-46. Baskets by St. Louis, Heschke and Demmer then closed out the narrow victory for the Mustangs.
Demmer finished with 15 and Maxon and St. Louis 13 each to lead Medina. Heschke added 5, Wilson 4, Roswyn Oakes and Autumn Cornelis 2 each and Emberlyn Oakes 1.
Golden poured in a game high 30 to lead Newfane as Julia Leibring added 10, Julia Noonan 7, Emma Johnston 4 and Kempton 2.
Medina finishes the N-O season at 5-7 and Newfane at 3-9.
Ah-Leena Golden, who scored 30 for Newfane here drives to the basket against Medina defender Emberlyn Oakes.
Akron 43, Wilson 38
Akron earned a share of the N-O title with Wilson by downing the Lakewomen 43-38.
Clara Bogdan scored 13 and Marissa Brege 9 to lead Akron while Bella Thrush and Kairi Beck each scored 9 for Wilson.
Akron and Wilson finish the N-O season with identical 10-2 records.
Roy-Hart 73, Barker 35
Adella Dukes scored a game high 28 points, Millie Owens 16 and Kylie McOmber 8 to lead Roy-Hart past Barker.
Elise Monaco scored 13 and Cheyanne Rouse and Charlotte Haag both had 9 for Barker.
Final N-O Standings: Akron 10-2, Wilson 10-2, Albion 7-5, Roy-Hart 6-6, Medina 5-7, Newfane 3-9, Barker 1-11.
By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 13 February 2026 at 9:19 pm
Notre Dame outlasted host Albion 65-59 in overtime in a non league boys basketball game this evening.
Albion sent the contest into overtime deadlocked at 51-51 on a basket by Nate Gibson with two seconds remaining.
However, Notre Dame emerged with the win by outpointing Albion 14-8 in the extra period.
Chase Antinore finished with 22, Matthew McCulley 14 and TJ Cephus Jr. 10 to lead Noree Dame.
Tyler Cody had a game high 25 to pace Albion as Wesley Olles added 15 and Gibson 10.
Albion jumped out to a 17-6 first quarter lead as Gibson and Cody both had a two and a three and Olles a pair of baskets.
However, the Irish answered back with a 20-10 second period scoring edge to rally into a 26-26 tie at the half. Antinore scored 8, McCulley 7 and Cephus 5 to lead that rally.
Albion rallied into a narrow 38-37 lead at the end of the third period as Cody had 7 in the stanza.
Notre Dame is now 16-3 and Albion 9-9.
The Purple Eagles will next host Kendall in another non league game at 11:30 a.m. Saturday.
By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 13 February 2026 at 9:17 pm
Newfane put together a decisive closing scoring surge to lock up a 53-45 win over visiting Medina in the Niagara-Orleans League boys basketball season finale this evening.
Trailing 41-40, Newfane rallied to outscore Medina 13-4 the rest of the way to claim the win. Mac Capen had two baskets and a pair of free throws to lead that Panthers uprising which also included a three by Isaac Zachery, a basket by Camlo Flowers and two free throws by Kasey Wheat.
Capen finished with a game high 19, Wheat 14, Flowers 11, Nasir Spencer 6 and Zachery 3.
Kolton Fletcher scored 13 and Christian Moss 10 to pace Medina as Preston Woodworth added 7, Kendrick Russaw 6, Jerrell Nealy 5 and Hadrian Batista and Jayzon Wills 2 each.
The Panthers grabbed a 12-9 first quarter lead but the Mustangs rallied into a 26-23 lead at the half. Fletcher scored 13 and Moss 7 during that stretch while Capen had 6 and Flowers 4 for the Panthers.
The Mustangs upped the led to 30-25 at the outset of the third period after a three by Nealy and a basket by Wills.
However, the Panthers came storming back with a 14-4 run to close the period and rally into a 39-36 lead. Wheat hit a pair of threes to lead that rally which also included two baskets each by Capen and Spencer.
Keeping the momentum, the Panthers then outscored the Mustangs 14-9 in the decisive final period to claim the 53-45 victory. Capen had 6 points and Zachery hit a three to lead that surge.
The Panthers and Mustangs finish the N-O season with identical 6-6 records.
Barker 64, Roy-Hart 46
Donovan Hefferon scored 20, JJ Prynn 15, Anthony Taliaferro 13 and Carter DerSarkissian 11 to lead Barker to a 64-46 N-O win over Roy-Hart.
Akron 66, Wilson 43
Wilson had already locked up the N-O title but Akron spoiled the Lakemen’s bid for an undefeated N-O season as the host Tigers posted a 66-43 win.
Blake Gerstung scored a game high 33, including a school record 9 threes, to lead Akron as Derren Brooks added 14, Ben Gerstung 9, Brodie Hill 6 and Chuckie Rebmann 4.
Ryan Hough led Wilson with 9 as Brock Lepsch and Shamus George both had 7 and Aidan Neumann 6.
Final N-O Standings: Wilson 11-1, Akron 10-2, Albion 6-6, Medina 6-6, Newfane 6-6, Barker 2-10, Roy-Hart 1-11.
Apples, onions, cabbage among the crops eligible for payments
Press Release, US Department of Agriculture
WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is providing $1 billion in Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers Program assistance for specialty crops and sugar, commodities not covered through the previously announced Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) program.
These one-time bridge payments will help address market disruptions, elevated input costs, persistent inflation, and market losses from foreign competitors engaging in unfair trade practices that impede exports. Specialty crop producers have until March 13 to report 2025 acres to USDA’s Farm Service Agency.
“President Trump has the backs of our farmers, and today we are building on our Farmer Bridge Assistance program with the Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers Program,” said Secretary Rollins. “Our specialty crop producers continue to feel the negative effects of four years under the Biden Administration, suffering from record inflation, a depleted farm safety net, and delayed disaster assistance.”
The Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers Program is authorized under the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act and will be administered by FSA.
ASCF payments are based on reported 2025 planted acres. Eligible farmers should ensure their 2025 acreage reporting is factual and accurate by 5 p.m. ET on March 13.
Commodity-specific payment rates will be released by the end of March. Crop insurance linkage will not be required for the ASCF Program. However, USDA strongly urges producers to take advantage of the new One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) risk management tools to best protect against price risk and volatility in the future.
More information on ASCF is available online at www.fsa.usda.gov/fba or producers can contact their local FSA county office.
Photos from State Police: More than 300 first responders assisted at the scene of a bus crash on Aug. 22, 2025 last year in Pembroke where five passengers died and 49 others were injured.
Press Release, NY State Police on Feb. 13, 2026
PEMBROKE – On February 11, 2026, the Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Violent Felony Warrant in Troop NYC arrested Bin Shao, 56 of Flushing Queens, NY for Manslaughter 2nd degree- 5 counts (C Felony) and Criminally Negligent Homicide- 5 counts (E Felony).
Shao has been processed by NYSP. Shao was transported to Genesee County Jail and arraigned on February 13 on a sealed indictment. Shao was remanded to the Genesee County Jail on $100,000 bail, $200,000 Bond, and $400,000 Partially Secured Bond.
On August 22, 2025, at 12:20 p.m., Troopers out of SP Buffalo, Troop T responded to a tour bus rollover collision on Interstate 90 (mm403.8), eastbound between exits 48A and 49 in the town of Pembroke, Genesee County.
Investigation determined that a 2005 Van Hool Bus and Coach tour bus owned by M&Y Tour Inc out of Staten Island, NY was traveling east bound on the I-90 from Niagara Falls, NY to New York City.
The bus exited the roadway into the median then abruptly corrected causing the bus to overturn and roll off the I-90 on the south embankment. Multiple passengers were ejected, trapped with 5 deceased at the scene. Forty-nine passengers were taken to multiple hospitals including Erie County Medical Center, Strong Memorial Hospital, Millard Fillmore Suburban, Buffalo General Hospital, Osheis (Golisano) Children’s Hospital and United Memorial Medical Center.
Approximately 319 first responders assisted on scene including Mercy Flight, EMS and local, state and county police departments.
The bus had a total of 54 occupants including the operator, Bin Shao. He had no signs of impairment, and the tour bus had no preliminary mechanical failure.
The five deceased resulting from this collision.
Shankar Kumar Jha, 65 of Madhu Bani, India
Pinki Changrani, 60 of East Brunswick NJ
Xie Hongzhuo, 22 of Beijing, China a Columbia University Student NYC
Zhang Xiaolan, 55 of Jersey City, NJ
Jian Mingli, 56 of Jersey City, NJ
The Collision Reconstruction Unit, Forensic Identification Unit, Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit, Bureau of Criminal Investigation Unit, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, The Office of Homeland Security, NYS Thruway Authority, Genesee County Emergency Management, Erie County Emergency Management, Newstead Emergency Management, Genesee County District Attorney’s Office, National Traffic Safety Board, Monroe County Medical Examiner’s Office, Genesee County Coroner’s Office, New York State Department of Transportation, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and numerous EMS, the Red Cross and fire companies throughout the area assisted in this incident.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 13 February 2026 at 4:45 pm
Press Release, NY State Police, Troop A
BATAVIA – An Elba man was killed in a car accident on Thursday afternoon at West Main Street and Kelsey Road in the town of Batavia, State Police said today.
Thomas J. Luby, 46, was traveling east bound on West Main Street when he crossed the center line with a 1983 Mercury Marquis, striking a 2013 Toyota 4-Runner at about 2:50 p.m.
Luby was transported to Erie County Medical Center with life-threatening injuries. The operator of the 4-Runner had no injuries. While being treated at ECMC, Luby succumbed to his injuries, State Police said.
This is an active investigation. The NYSP Bureau of Criminal Investigation is assisting with this investigation.
Editor’s Note: This article was updated from an earlier version that stated the driver was 79 years old.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 13 February 2026 at 9:20 am
Photos by Ginny Kropf: Orleans County Legislative Chairman Lynne Johnson, second from left, presented citations to John Miga, Department commander; Maureen Morgan, Auxiliary Department president; and Joseph Guidice Jr., Department Detachment commander at the Genesee and Orleans Department Officers’ Testimonial Dinner Tuesday at Batavia Downs.
BATAVIA – Genesee and Orleans counties’ American Legions welcomed members and distinguished guests to their annual Department Officers’ Testimonial Dinner at Batavia Downs on Tuesday night.
Master of ceremonies was David Rumsey, 1st vice commander of Genesee County, who led guests in a salute to the National Colors. This was followed by the invocation by Orleans County Auxiliary chaplain Patty Woodworth, the Pledge of Allegiance and POW/MIA remembrance reading with Rumsey and Joan Fernaays.
Highlight of the evening was introduction of New York State Department Commander John R. Miga; Department president Maureen Morgan and Sons of the Legion Detachment Commander Joseph Guidice Jr.
American Legion’s Department Commander John Miga is presented with citations, from left, Eileen Banker representing Senator Rob Ortt; Miga; Gregg Torrey, representing Senator George Borrello; and Chad Zambito, representing Assemblyman Stephen Hawley.
Guests at the head table were John Miga, Department commander; Ryan Ditacchio, Genesee County commander; Ron Boyd, Orleans County commander; Steve Cybart, 8th District commander; Don Sisson, Department vice commander (7th and 8th districts); David Rumsey, Genesee County 1st vice commander; Maureen Morgan, Auxiliary Department president; Sharon DeBottis, Genesee County Auxiliary president; Cathleen Fox, Orleans County Auxiliary president; Sue Williams, 8th District Auxiliary president; Joseph Guidice Jr., Department Detachment commander; Diman Smith, Detachment vice commander (7th and 8th districts) Joshua Spinler 8th District Detachment commander; and Patty Woodworth, Orleans County Auxiliary chaplain.
Tuesday’s Department Officers’ Testimonial Dinner at Batavia Downs began with a POW/MIA remembrance ceremony by David Rumsey and Joan Fernaays.
Distinguished guests included Gregg Torrey, representing State Senator George Borrello; Eileen Banker, representing State Senator Robert Ortt; Chad Zambito, representing State Assemblyman Stephen Hawley; and Orleans County Legislature Chairman Lynne Johnson.
The program began with Joseph Guidice Jr. of Rockland County, who commented on the guests’ visit to the New York State Veterans’ Home and VA Medical Center Tuesday morning.
“I was awestruck to see the level of care our veterans received,” Guidice said. “It goes above and beyond. “I’ve never had the chance before to sit down and talk to the veterans like that.”
Guidice went on to praise the Sons of the American Legion. He said New York state has the fourth largest detachment of Sons in the nation, with nearly 33,000 members. There are more than 6,000 in our local district, he said. He urged members to get their kids involved in the American Legion.
Guidice went on to describe his personal project, Tunnel to Towers, an organization formed to provide mortgage-free homes to Gold Star families and families of fallen first responders.
“Our goal is to eradicate veterans’ homelessness,” he said.
He also talked about the Child Well-Being Foundation, of which SAL’s nearly $11 million donation makes them the largest donor.
SAL members ae selling commemorative coins for $20 with all proceeds going to the Foundation.
Guidice also talked about the need for all Legion families to be more diligent in reporting their activities to the national organization.
“In Genesee and Orleans counties, we had only 30% reporting, yet we donated more than $7 million,” Guidice said. “There are 64 squadrons in this district and we need to remind everybody we are important. We are impactful.”
He concluded by saying SAL may stand for Sons of the American Legion, but to him it also stands for “Service and Legacy.”
Cathleen Fox and Sharon DeBottis, Auxiliary presidents in Orleans and Genesee counties, respectively, welcomed guests and introduced Sue Williams, 8th District Auxiliary president, who then introduced Maureen Morgan, Auxiliary Department president.
Seated at the head table of the Department Officers’ Testimonial Dinner were, from left, Don Sission, Department vice commander of the 7th and 8th district; Steve Cybart, district commander; Ron Boyd, Orleans County commander; Ryan Ditacchio, Genesee County commander; and John Miga, Department commander.
Morgan has a long-standing record of involvement in the American Legion. A United States Navy veteran from the Lebanon/Grenada War, she is a dual member of the American Legion, a 10-year member of the American Legion Auxiliary and a 25-year member of the Spring Valley American Legion. She said her family are all members of the American Legion.
Morgan also commented on the visit to New York State Veterans’ Home, saying she met some amazing female veterans that day.
She summed up American Legion Auxiliary programs as Mission Outreach, Children in Youth and Community Service.
“None of those would be successful without member support,” Morgan said. “Membership is most important. We need members so we can continue. We are the largest patriot organization in America.”
Also at the head table of the Department Officers’ Testimonial Dinner were Maureen Morgan, Auxiliary Department president; Sharon DeBottis, Genesee County Auxiliary president; Cathleen Fox, Orleans County Auxiliary president; Sue Williams, 8th District Auxiliary president; Joseph Guidice Jr., Department Detachment commander; Diman Smith, Detachment vice commander of 7th and 8th districts; and Patty Woodworth, Orleans County Auxiliary chaplain.
Morgan said Genesee County is at 78.72% of its goal, while Orleans County is at 81.20%. She said the 8th District has added more than 1,000 new members this year.
Morgan’s two major projects this year are a Military Women’s Memorial in Arlington National Cemetery and Empire Girls’ State Program.
Honored guest and final speaker John Miga of Dunkirk was introduced by Don Sisson, Department vice commander.
Miga served in the military in South Korea and was drafted by the American Legion to promote patriotism across New York state in preparation for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence this year.
Miga first commented on how inspiring the visits to the Veterans’ Home and VA were.
“I met a 103-year-old vet today, and it was wonderful,” Miga said. “He was sharp and right on. Another individual I met served in Vietnam, where he was shot down. He kept telling me, ‘I got shot down and got up and took them all out.’ That’s the kind of stories you hear in a place like that.”
Miga also stressed the importance of increasing membership in the American Legion. He said membership in Genesee and Orleans counties is doing pretty well, and as of today, Genesee County had made the largest increase. Albion, he said, was at 92.28% of its goal.
Master of ceremonies and 1st vice commander of the American Legion in Genesee County David Rumsey, right, welcomes Department Commander John Miga to the podium at the annual Department Officers’ Testimonial Dinner Tuesday at Batavia Downs. At left is Ryan Ditacchio, Genesee County commander.
Nationwide, Miga said the American Legion is losing members, and he asked, “Why?”
“Are we not doing things that interest young people,” he asked.
He said there are billions of dollars in benefits to veterans and $32 million in grants to hospitalized vets.
Miga commended Orleans County on their good job with Empire State programs.
“Every year they have somebody in the oratorical,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of Legions’ reporting their programs.
“When we go before the leaders of the county, state and nation, the more we have done, the more they give us,” Miga said.
Miga concluded by sharing his projects for the year – Be the One, Suicide Prevention (we are losing 18 veterans a day to suicide) and Chautauqua’s Safety Village in Ashville.
Continuing the program, citations were presented to American Legion’s Department Commander John Miga from Eileen Banker representing Senator Rob Ortt; Gregg Torrey, representing Senator George Borrello; Chad Zambito, representing Assemblyman Stephen Hawley; and Lynne Johnson, chair of the Orleans County Legislature.
In conclusion representatives of the American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion presented monetary gifts to Commander Miga, President Morgan and SAL Detachment Commander Guidice Jr.
Organizing chairs of the event were Fox and Ditacchio.
In Genesee County, officers of the American Legion are Ryan Ditacchio, commander; David Rumsey, 1st vice commander; Wallace Kornow, finance: and Willian Joyce, Veterans’ Service officer.
American Auxiliary offices are Sharon DeBottis, president and secretary; and MaryAnn Neider, treasurer.
Orleans County Legion leaders are Ron Boyd, commander; Scott Galliford, 1st vice commander; Peter Huth, finance; and Nikolas Mroz, Veterans’ Service officer.
Auxiliary leaders are Cathleen Fox, president; Rachael Spearance, vice president; Kristin Hein, secretary; and Chris Barone, treasurer.
Sons of the American Legion commanders are Peter Hennekey, Squadron35 in Albion; Scott Carlton, Squadron 204 in Medina; John O’Grady, Squadron 575 in Gergen; and Scott O’Neill, Squadron 576 in LeRoy.
The Bishop Nursing Home in Medina, Rose Villa Nursing Home in Albion, the Rembrandt Nursing Home in Kendall are but a few of the Orleans County facilities that provided residential care for elderly and incapacitated patients from the 1930s to the 1970s.
