Hometown Holiday was hopping in Albion
Photos by Tom Rivers
ALBION – Albion was busy on Saturday during its annual Hometown Holiday event. There were many activities in the downtown business district, the library and other locations.
The top photo shows kids making crafts and enjoying hot chocolate at Hoag Library. They also made get well cards for 4-year-old Paisley who is struggling from complications from a small intestine transplant. Paisley, the daughter of Josh Daniels and Ashley Nenni, has been at Mount Sinai in New York City for over a year.
The kids at Hoag were all able to take home a tea cup to give to a family member for Christmas. The activity was organized by Lori Laine, Maureen Bennett, Marilyn Burgoon and Michelle Hughson.
Maureen Bennett, left, and Val Rush as Mrs. Claus greeted people at Hoag Library.
The day started with Coffee with a Cop at the Village Office. Sgt. Robert Wagner, second from left, and officer Sean McElhinny are shown with Kay Ecker, left, and Anita Finley who were leading a crafts activity where people could decorate ornaments.
Ashley Johnson brought her son and two nieces to decorate ornaments.
Hometown Holiday was capped with a parade at 6 p.m. and after-parties at Dubby’s Tailgate and 39 Problems.
Wreaths set at graves for 360 veterans at Mount Albion
Photos by Tom Rivers
ALBION – Wes Tabor, a Vietnam War veteran, sets wreaths at the graves of veterans at Mount Albion Cemetery on Saturday. Tabor was a frontline medic in the war from 1969 to 1970.
Mount Albion for the second year joined in Wreaths Across America. The first year in 2024, there were 225 wreaths. On Saturday, the total was boosted to 360.
Jenn Thom leads the wreath effort at Mount Albion. She is the director of Operation Honor. She would like to see wreaths for all the veterans buried at Mount Albion – more than 2,000.
Jennifer Hughes, Girl Scout leader for Troop 82094, brought several scouts to Mount Albion to help place the wreaths, including her granddaughter, Evelyn Strickland.
Angie Wolfe and her son Caleb, 13, carry wreaths to be placed at the veterans’ section of the cemetery. Caleb volunteered with the History Club at Albion school.
Jenn Thom, director of Operation Honor, and Wes Tabor set wreaths at Mount Albion with temperatures in the low 20s.
When the volunteers set the wreaths, they were encouraged to say the veteran’s name and thank them for their service.
These Girl Scouts from Medina – Rayne Davis in front, Alaina Fry behind her, and Madison Fry at right – carry wreaths to place at veterans’ graves.
Tigers romp to G-R win over W-C
Lyndonville romped to a 63-38 victory over host Wheatland-Chili in a Genesee Region League boys basketball game this evening.
Lane Woodworth scored 18, Lyric Raduns 17, Colton Smith 16, Quincy McClinsey 9 and Atticus Mank 3 for the Tigers.
Kendall 61, Alexander 34
A 30-17 edge in rebounds and 20 steals keyed Kendall to a 61-34 G-R win at Alexander.
Sammy Conte had 15 points, 6 rebounds, 4 steals and 5 assists; Jonny Conte 12 points and 5 steals; Jonas Rhodes 9 points and 5 steals; CJ D’Agostino 8 points, Vinnie D’Agostino 7 points, Noah Morehouse 6 points and Caleb Opalecky 4 points for the Eagles which led 21-20 at the half.
Roy-Hart 61, Cleveland Hill 39
Roy-Hart downed visiting Cleveland Hill 61-39 in a non league game as Matt Aquilina scored 29, Tysen McCaa 8 and Vinny Fazzio 7.
Attica 67, Holley 60
Cam Mosier scored 20, Josh Silpoch 14 and Avante Walker 12 for Holley in the 67-60 G-R loss to Attica.
Wilson 51, Newfane 45
Wilson downed rival Newfane 51-45 in the Niagara-Orleans League boys basketball opener for both teams.
Aidan Neumann scored 18 and Ryan Hough 11 for Wilson while Kasey Wheat led Newfane with 13.
Girls Basketball
Wilson 56, Newfane 26
Wilson opened defense of its N-O League girls basketball title with a 56-26 win over rival Newfane.
Lucy Madan and Abbie Faery each scored 12 for Wilson which led 37-13 at the half.
Stephanie Chunco and Emma Johnston each scored 9 for Newfane.
Starpoint 70, Roy-Hart 32
Courtney Aquilina scored 15 and Adella Dukes 10 for Roy-Hart in the 70-32 non league loss to Starpoint.
‘Peace officers’ can often diffuse volatile situations, saving lives
Editor:
Elmira in the 1970s: Retired Police Chief Eugene “Gene” Golden, my father, walked up to Karam’s Corner Grocery Store. A newly formed SWAT team, in armor, were deploying to rush a home. Dad approached the officer in charge, “What’s going on Joe?”
“John Smith (alias) is threatening to shoot up the neighborhood with his shot gun.”
“I know John. He’s mentally ill. Let me try to talk with him.”
“Are you sure?” responded Joe. Dad assured him that it would be OK.
Dad knocked on the door, “John, it’s Gene Golden.”
John opened the door.
Seeing an open beer on the table, “John, are you going to invite me in for a beer, or what?”
John reluctantly did. The shotgun was on the table. They talked.
After a few minutes, John had surrendered the gun to Dad and walked outside with him. He went peacefully with the police.
Several months later, in Elmira, the SWAT team surrounded a housing project in center town. The situation was similar. They sent in a robot. Then they stormed the place. One police officer was shot and killed.
It came out, after months of investigation, that the officer had been killed by “friendly” fire.
My father, admittedly was a big man, great athlete in his youth and had arrested many violent people, including, forcibly a famous serial killer, Freddie Wood. He contended that “a police officer shouldn’t have to draw his gun more than a few times in his career.”
Interestingly in about 1993, Jerry Orbach, a police detective on Law and Order, said much the same thing. (By the way, I see Law and Order as being the most fair, respectful and realistic show on police and prosecution. In my opinion, most others are not respectful to police.)
It’s hard to know how many police officers are injured and killed by “friendly fire.” (There are innocent bystander victims as well.) Not all police departments share statistics with the FBI. And like the banks, schools, Catholic and other churches, Boy Scouts, there’s a tendency to hide problems. Example: with NFL footballer/soldier Pat Tillman, the Army withheld that he’d been the victim of “friendly fire.”
I worked in criminal justice from 1959 to 2007 for 2 counties, NY State and Genesee Hospital Domestic Violence Program. I disarmed several violent men and physically intervened in domestic violent instances, among most dangerous for police to answer. In all instances, I controlled the situations without needing to use force. Police and Probation were called “Peace Officers.”
I recently heard a speech by the head of Police Training for New York State. He calls police “warriors.” Who are we at war with – fellow citizens and humans? Fellow police? Studies show that police commit crime at about the same rate as average Americans.
We now know that to be true about priests, other clergy, bank and school employees. Various studies show that major corporations have committed at least 5 felonies, another that 91% have committed at least two, that they were caught at.
The upper classes and connected get different results than the poor and worker classes. Quality of defense lawyers and ability to afford expensive defense and get bailed out makes a huge difference, as well as preferential treatment.
In my opinion we expect the impossible from police and fail to support them.
In the past, our current president blocked many safety procedures that would have protected police and made their job safer and more doable:
- He illegally purged 500,000 violent fringe folks from justice records.
- Suspended rule that would have prohibited mentally ill from having guns.
- Barred Social Security from sharing info on mental illness.
- Halted required child safety devices on guns.
- Deregulated exportation of “assault” weapons.
“Warriors” or Peace Officers? I asked my sister, Rosanne Leach, who’s worked as a mental health nurse in the community and at Rochester State Hospital, whether she’d ever worried about our father coming home from work in his 34 years. We both agreed we hadn’t.
Police training now seems to make a mantra out of its dangers. Police work is more dangerous than a lot of jobs. But many other jobs are more dangerous, notably construction and farming.
By the way, Eugene F. Golden was named “New York State Police Chief of the Year” in 1962, among other awards for his leadership in the field.
My father and I say “Peace Officers.”
Robert E. Golden
Kent
Golden, a former Orleans County Director of Probation and member of NYS Probation Commission, worked 43 years in criminal justice. He plans to follow up with a series of articles on police, including the difficult and even impossible expectations we, the public have.
Newfane swimmers sweep Albion
Newfane swept to a pair of Niagara-Orleans League swim meet wins over Albion today.
Newfane won the boys’ meet 88-63 and the girls’ competition 101-49.
Noah Kneeland was a double winner in the 50 Freestyle and 500 Free for the Newfane boys squad which improves to 2-0.
Justin Kania won the 100 Free, Nathan Wehling the 100 Backstroke and Logan Kast the 100 Breaststroke for Albino which is now 1-1.
Sara Klinger doubled in the 200 Free and 50 Free and Riley Klopfer in the 100 Butterfly and 500 Free for the Newfane girls which also improve to 2-0.
Keira Sidari won both the 200 Individual Medley and the 100 Free for Albion which is now 0-2.
2 local leaders graduate from WNY Health Leadership Fellows
Renee Hungerford, Karen Kinter both complete 18-month program
Photo by Ginny Kropf: Renee Hungerford, executive director of Community Action of Orleans and Genesee, left, and Karen Kinter, executive healthcare consultant and former CEO of Oak Orchard Health, posed for this picture in Hoag Library when they announced their acceptance into the Health Foundation of WNY’s Health Leadership Fellows 18-month program. They graduated from the program on Nov. 16.
ALBION – Renee Hungerford, director of Community Action of Orleans and Genesee County, and Karen Kinter, executive healthcare consultant and former CEO of Oak Orchard Health, have graduated from the prestigious Health Foundation of WNY’s Health Leadership Fellows program.
When they were selected for the 18-month program in 2024, neither realized the other Albion businesswoman had also applied.
Graduation took place Nov. 16 at the Memorial Art Gallery in Rochester, followed by a reception at the Strathallan in Rochester.
During the two-day graduation celebration, each team presented their projects to a team of panelists and a large audience, Hungerford said. Team members were named after characters of the Apple TV show, Ted Lasso, and Hungerford and Kinter were members of Team Nate.
During the course of 18 months, their team worked together to create the Fresh Start Care Center located at Community Action’s Main Street Corner Thrift Store. In addition to creating, planning, executing and implementing the project, the team worked together on an evidenced-based paper which substantiated the need for the intervention, according to Hungerford.
The project goal, she said, was to reduce chronic student absenteeism and increase student success by removing barriers to attendance, such as lack of the ability to launder clothes, obtain personal care items or have adequate facilities for personal hygiene.
The Fresh Start Center is a groundbreaking initiative designed to address hygiene insecurity among disadvantaged youth in Orleans County. Information supplied by Hungerford states the center is in response to alarming data showing up to 39 percent of students in Orleans County live in poverty, with many homes lacking basic plumbing.
Teachers have reported that hygiene-related stigma contributes to chronic absenteeism and social isolation, particularly among high school students. She said on a daily basis, as many as a dozen students are lined up at the door to the nurse’s office, waiting to take a shower.
Kinter likened the WNY Health Fellowship Program to Leadership Orleans. She said during their participation their team built a business plan and a pilot to operate the Fresh Start Center.
“We also got seed money from the Foundation to buy a washer and dryer,” Kinter said. “We got other money from the community and a private donation which funded supplies. Our class also donated laundry supplies and money to continue to help with operating costs.”
Kinter called the fellowship program a great networking opportunity which provided collaboration with more than 40 organizations from across the region.
“This program made them aware of Orleans County, who we are and what we are doing,” she said. “We learned what other organizations are out there in the region that can be of help to us. The president of the Foundation met us and got to hear our suggestions.”
Hungerford also praised the program.
“I felt truly honored to be selected for the 11th cohort of the Health Leadership Fellows program, as it fit well into my personal goal of doing my part to fix our broken healthcare system,” Hungerford said. “Good health outcomes start with ensuring people have resources for basic needs, such as nutritious food, shelter, access to health services and knowledge. Health literacy is paramount for people to thrive. I am thrilled that we chose a project that is focused on young people. Children and youth have little to no control over economic circumstances. All of us, as a supportive community, need to ensure they have what they need to achieve success.”
Accumulating enough money to purchase a shower for the Fresh Start Center continues to be an ongoing goal for Community Action. Hungerford’s family donated their time to install plumbing and electrical for the Center, and donations will continue to be accepted to purchase a shower. Checks may be made out to Community Action, designated for the Fresh Start Center and mailed to 409 East State St., Albion, 14411.
Hungerford said they had been quoted $16,000 for a shower, but she is confident they can acquire one cheaper than that.
Cassie Healy, manager of the Main Street Corner Thrift Store, also oversees the Fresh Start Center.
Provided photo: Karen Kinter and Renee Hungerford, fourth and fifth from left, are shown with their fellow team members after graduation in November from the WNY Health Leadership Fellows program. They are shown at the Memorial Art Gallery in Rochester.
YMCA announces new programs at Medina site
Organizations accepting donations for food pantry, gloves and hats for ‘Warming Tree’
Photo by Ginny Kropf: Andrew Houseman, senior program director at the Orleans County YMCA, stands by the containers used to accept donations of non-perishable food items for The Vine’s food pantry. Houseman has announced a lineup of new programs for the upcoming year, for all members of the family.
MEDINA – A lineup of new programs and old favorites at the Orleans County YMCA will welcome members in the New Year.
Recently hired senior program director Andrew Houseman has announced a lineup of new programs of interest to the entire family.
“You are going to see a tremendous change in programming,” Houseman said.
The first new class is a baking class, developed because of the interest in a recent cooking class, Houseman said. The baking class, which will begin at 6 p.m. Dec. 30, will be led by Lockport chef Tyler Mitchell. The class will focus on how to make different holiday cookies.
A continuing program will be co-ed adult basketball on Monday nights.
Beginning Jan. 6, the Medina High School cheerleaders will lead a dance class, open to all experience and skill levels aged 4 to 12. No expensive costumes or recitals are required. The course will take place from 6 to 7 p.m. for seven Tuesdays.
Houseman said the cheerleaders practice tumbling at the Y and he suggested they do something for the public in return. They also lead a class in tumbling for 5- to 14-year-olds. The classes will be for seven weeks from 6 to 7 p.m. Thursdays, starting Jan. 8. The tumbling camp is designed to build strength, balance and confidence.
Peewee and youth soccer provide fun, teamwork, skill building and scrimmages, and take place from 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays. The class starts Jan. 7 and runs through Feb. 25.
A very popular offering is the Youth Basketball League, which last year attracted 70 kids, Houseman said.
“We are hoping for the same interest this year,” he said.
The league begins Jan. 8 and runs through Feb. 26. Practices are from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursdays, and games are from 8 to 10 a.m. Saturdays.
A fitness program will be new in 2026, Houseman said. “New Year Healthy Habits Guide” is an eight-week challenge beginning Jan 8 with group exercise led by a professional trainer. A personal training award will be given to those who complete the program, who will also receive a discount on exercise classes. Participants will get a workout plan and nutritional support, Houseman said. Check-in is from 3 to 4:30 and 6 to 6:30 every Thursday
Another new program is Pickup Basketball, which begins Jan. 4. Members can come into the Y and organize their own basketball games, Houseman said.
There are a number of new family events, from parents’ night to schools-out programs.
One of the group training exercises the Y is trying to promote is TRX training, Houseman said. He also said HIIT virtual classes are new for 16-year-olds and up. Members can watch classes on TV. If the trainer is absent, there will still be a class. The HIIT class is from 5 to 6 p.m. Thursdays.
Houseman said they are also trying to push Zumba. They have had a big interest, but would like to see a bigger turnout, he said.
A new community library has been set up, where members can give a book or take a book.
In an effort to support their community, Houseman said the Y has been collecting non-perishable food for The Vine church on Maple Ridge Road. They have also partnered with the Medina Police Department to create a Warming Tree, in which they are seeking donations of hats and gloves for both children and adults.
“We were looking for ways to partner our organization and giving to the community was the best idea,” Houseman said. “I am friends with police officer Brandon Brown and we came up with this idea.”
The police department will deliver the hats and mittens to strategic locations where they will be available to those who need them.
In another act of community involvement, Community Action of Orleans and Genesee and the Albion FFA donated boxes of produce from their recent food collection, and anyone who wanted or needed fresh produce was welcome to take it. As of Monday, nearly all of it was gone, except for acorn squash.
Houseman said that their Child Watch service has been extended to 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 4 to 7:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
“Andrew has done a great job bringing new programming to the Orleans branch,” said Dean Bellack, chief volunteer officer at the GLOW YMCA. “I know he has more planned and I hope the community is as pleased as I am with the positive change.”
One final note Houseman shared is news about the archery classes by the Society for Anachronism (archery) which the Y has been hosting in space developed by Merle Fredericks’ Christian Bowhunters. The Society is planning to put on a show for the public in early spring. It will feature archery demonstrations and medieval fighting.
Houseman also announced a special promotion for new members in January. From Jan. 1 to 17, all new members will receive a $25 program credit. They can join online at www.glowymca.org or in person at the YMCA, 306 Pearl St.
More information on programs and prices are available by contacting the Y at www.glowymca.org or calling (585) 798-2040.
Mustangs nip Flyers in home opener
Photos by Cheryl Wertman – Medina’s Jerrell Nealy puts up a shot over Maryvale defender Eric Hayes during the Mustangs narrow win over the visiting Flyers this evening.
Medina’s home opener turned out to be a down to the wire thriller this evening as the Mustangs nipped Maryvale 53-51 in a non league contest.
Trailing 49-48, Medina rallied into the lead at 51-48 on a three by Preston Woodworth with 35 seconds remaining.
However, Maryvale answered with a pair of clutch free throws by Jacob Goins to retie the game at 51-51 with 29 seconds to go.
The Mustangs finally regained the lead for good at 53-51 on a layup by Jerrell Nealy with 12 seconds remaining.
Woodworth then blocked a last second Flyers shot to preserve the narrow win.
Nealy finished with a game high 29 and Woodworth 11 as Christian Moss added 7, Kolton Fletcher 3, Carlos Doval 2 and Hadrian Batista 1 as the Mustangs improve to 5-0.
Goins finished with 18 and Eric Hayes 12 to lead the Flyers which are now 3-1.
Nealy scored 10 quick points in the opening quarter as Medina jumped out to a 15-9 lead.
The Mustangs maintained slender one point, 26-25 lead at the half as Nealy tallied 8 in the second quarter.
Putting together a 13-3 run to open the second half, Maryvale rallied into a nine point, 38-29, advantage midway through the third period sparked by threes by Goins and Kevahni Moore.
Medina though answered back with an 8-0 run to close the period and slice the deficit to just one at 38-37. as Woodworth had a two and a three to key the rally.
The Mustangs pulled even twice late in the final stanza, first at 45-45 on a free throw by Moss and again at 47-47 on a basket by Moss before finally regaining the lead at 51-49 on Woodworth’s third three of the evening.
That set the stage for the hectic final half minute which in rapid succession saw the Flyers retie at game at 51-51, Nealy score what proved to be the game winning basket and Woodworth lock up the victory with a block of a last second Flyers shot.
Medina next returns to Niagara-Orleans League action on Friday hosting Roy-Hart at 6:30 p.m.
Medina’s Jayzon Wills drives to the basket against Maryvale’s Jacob Goins.
Striking sunset brings out shutterbugs
It was a sensational sunset this evening in Orleans County. Several people sent in photos to the Orleans Hub, including the top one of cattle on Marshall Road in Ridgeway. Kimberly Stawicki took that photo.
Kari Hagglund took this photo of the Butts Road canal bridge in Albion. She declared, “Gorgeous sunset tonight.”
Theresa Brien took this photo of the sunset. “Everything was pink!”
Mike Zeliff took this photo of the sunset on Route 63 in Lyndonville.
After several days of a deep freeze, the temperatures will climb above freezing on Wednesday with a high of 39. Then the highs are 48 on Thursday, 39 on Friday and 37 on Saturday.
Allies of Tonawanda Seneca Nation strongly oppose ‘monstrous data center’ proposed for STAMP
Group wants DEC to be lead agency for environmental review process
Press Release, Allies of Tonawanda Seneca Nation
ALABAMA, NY – Local residents are denouncing a sprawling data center complex proposed by STREAM US Data Centers and corporate parent Apollo Global Management at Western New York Science and Technology Advanced Manufacturing (STAMP) being developed by the Genesee County Economic Development Center in Alabama, NY.
Residents join the Tonawanda Seneca Nation in demanding that the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation take over from GCEDC as lead agency for purposes of environmental review of the new data center plan, which at 2.2 million square feet and 500 megawatts would be the largest in Western New York and more than twice as large as a plan proposed by STREAM and rejected by the community earlier this year.
“As a resident of Genesee County, I am outraged by STREAM’s new and monstrous plan. I urge all my neighbors and community members to join me in echoing the Tonawanda Seneca Nation’s call for NYSDEC to take over as lead agency. GCEDC being in this role is the definition of the fox guarding the henhouse and would lead to even more harm and failed promises,” said Adrienne Yocina, a Pembroke resident who has been active in the Rethink STAMP campaign.
Calls from the GLOW Region are bolstered by a recent letter, signed by more than 100 environmental, faith, human rights, and good governance groups and 500 individuals from across New York state, which urges STREAM and Apollo to abandon plans for a data center at STAMP.
The letter, sent just prior to publication of plans for the new data center, expresses far-ranging concerns about the threats from such a facility to regional environmental quality, local quality of life, and the sovereignty and well-being of the federally recognized Tonawanda Seneca Nation, whose Reservation Territory abuts the parcel under consideration for a data center and whose Council of Chiefs has long expressed opposition to industrial development at STAMP. STREAM withdrew an earlier data center proposal after the Nation and the Sierra Club filed a lawsuit alleging violations of the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA).
“Stream’s first proposal was met with powerful, unanimous opposition from local community members and the Tonawanda Seneca Nation – including nearly 800 written comments, 50 spoken comments made at a public hearing, and countless opinion pieces published in local papers. A proposal for an even larger project would be an insult to the many people who passionately detailed the unsuitability of this site for a data center project,” the letter asserts. “Locating a data center on the Nation’s unceded homelands, surrounded by a network of public protected lands and in the middle of a vast complex of thriving, biodiverse wetlands: this is an ecological travesty that also threatens the existence of the Nation.”
STREAM’s new plan envisions a massive complex of three towering structures more than 100 feet tall, occupying more than 2.2 million square feet and using more than 500 megawatts of electricity per year. The facility would burn tens of thousands of gallons of diesel fuel and emit carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, benzene, and other hazardous air pollutants. 500 megawatts is roughly the amount of energy required to power 350,000-375,000 residential homes for a year.
Allies of the Tonawanda Seneca Nation and others recently held a press conference outside the New York Power Authority (NYPA) Board of Trustees Meeting to highlight the ongoing failure of Governor Hochul, NYPA CEO Justin Driscoll, and the NYPA Board of Trustees to uphold the stated demands of the Nation regarding allocations of Niagara River low-cost hydropower to industrial tenants at STAMP. In an April 2025 letter, the Nation wrote that it “strongly opposes any allocation of low-cost hydropower to a data center at STAMP.”
STREAM intends to take advantage of space that was previously part of a parcel owned by Plug Power, which paused construction on its green hydrogen manufacturing facility in 2023, leaving a gap in financing for the onsite electrical substation. Despite hundreds of millions in taxpayer subsidies, Plug Power never turned a profit and has never produced hydrogen or a single permanent job at STAMP. Project Double Reed’s backers claim the project would produce roughly 90 permanent jobs.
STREAM’s plan also calls for onsite storage of 114,000 gallons of diesel fuel and discharge of 20,000 gallons of sanitary wastewater per day. Currently, GCEDC plans to store sanitary wastewater discharge from operations at STAMP in a large sewage tank located onsite. Wastewater would be transported daily by diesel truck to be dumped at a municipal wastewater facility in the Village of Oakfield.
GCEDC’s STAMP Committee and Board of Directors will meet on Thursday, December 18 at 3:30 p.m. at the MedTech Centre in Batavia. GCEDC is expected to formalize its intent to take lead agency status for environmental review of the data center complex under SEQRA, giving other agencies 30 days to accept or dispute GCEDC taking this role.
In September, GCEDC voluntarily rescinded approvals for a smaller data center plan from STREAM. This rescission followed litigation by Tonawanda Seneca Nation and the Sierra Club, which asked that the approvals be vacated based on GCEDC’s violations of both procedural and substantive requirements of the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA). The litigation contended that GCEDC violated the law when it issued decisions awarding subsidies of $472 million to Stream U.S. Data Centers and conducted environmental review without project specifics or site plan review.
“Data center” is a generic term referring to operations ranging from cryptocurrency mining to Artificial Intelligence processing. Data centers are well known for their massive energy demands and for producing continuous low-frequency noise and vibrations. Scientific research establishes a link between excessive noise exposure and harms to both public health and the health of wildlife.
Data centers also produce significant air pollution and add significant load to the energy grid, leading to higher consumer electrical bills and increasing the frequency of blackouts and brownouts. Data centers produce few permanent jobs, rarely remain in operation for more than 10-15 years, and face growing opposition from communities across the country concerned about their noxious public health and environmental impacts.
Medina swears in new police chief, 10-year veteran of department
Photo by Tom Rivers
MEDINA – Christian Navas was sworn in as Medina’s police chief during Monday’s Medina Village Board meeting. His wife Stephanie pins the stars on the chief’s collar.
Navas was joined at the swearing in by his daughters, Mackenzie and Layla.
Navas is a 10-year veteran of the Medina Police Department. He has worked his way up from the ranks from patrolman and officer to sergeant, lieutenant and acting chief.
“I chose to remain with the Village of Medina Police Department for a decade because I believe in this department and the community it serves,” Navas said. “Taking on the role of Chief was a natural step to provide steady leadership, support our officers, and continue moving the department forward.”
The Village Board approved one other promotion in the Police Department on Monday. Jonathan McManus was named sergeant. He joined the Medina PD on Sept. 26, 2022.
Many of the department’s officers, including retired police chief Todd Draper, attended the swearing-in as a show of support for Navas in his new role.
Navas as acting chief convinced the Village Board last month to use grant funds towards a three-year lease agreement with Flock Safety to install License Plate Readers and PTZ safety cameras in Medina.
Navas said the cameras and readers will help officers investigate crimes, locate missing persons, and respond faster when public safety is at risk. They capture license plate information and vehicle details that can be crucial in trying to identify suspects, recover stolen vehicles, or respond to time-sensitive cases, he said.
But there has been some backlash since the announcement on Nov. 25.
The board on Monday said a committee will be working with Navas on a policy for how the readers will be used. One business owner on Monday told the board he didn’t want the readers and cameras to be used with ICE enforcement.
The Police Department issued a press release on Nov. 25, stating the cameras won’t be used for issuing tickets, tracking personal movement for minor violations, identifying individuals or running facial recognition, accessing personal cell phones or any private data.
“These cameras are strictly for investigative use after a crime or emergency has occurred,” the department said.
Canal director retires; Hochul names Syracuse mayor as new leader of Canal Corp.
Brian Stratton served 15 years in role and pushed for bigger impact of historic waterway in canal towns
Press Release, Governor Kathy Hochul
Photos by Tom Rivers: Brian Stratton, director of the New York State Canal Corporation, was in Medina on June 15, 2021 with then Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul to tout the “On the Canals” program to bring visitors to Orleans County. The Canal Corp. teamed with the YMCA to rent kayaks and hydro-bikes for free. Stratton said the state is pushing to make the canal a bigger impact in the canal towns. That included keeping water in the canal about a month longer than usual to boost tributary fishing and encouraging farmers to use canal water to irrigate fields, which made a big difference during this year’s drought conditions.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the New York Power Authority has hired Benjamin R. Walsh as the next Director of the New York State Canal Corporation. Walsh has served as the Mayor of Syracuse since 2018 and moves to the Canal Corporation with a record of practical leadership, inclusive economic development, and successful government innovation.
“Ben Walsh delivered real results for Syracuse, from revitalizing neighborhoods to preparing workers for the jobs of the future,” Governor Hochul said. “His experience driving collaboration and transformative growth will be an asset as we move into the historic canal system’s third century and will benefit the Canal Corporation, canal communities, and New Yorkers and tourists alike.”
As Mayor of Syracuse, Walsh has overseen a resurgence in the city since taking office in 2018. He launched Syracuse Surge, making the city New York’s “Flagship Smart City,” expanded affordable housing through the Resurgent Neighborhoods Initiative, and created Syracuse Build to prepare residents for careers tied to the I-81 reconstruction. He also guided the city through the COVID-19 pandemic and successfully coordinated the allocation of $123 million in federal relief funds.
NYPA President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll said, “I am pleased to welcome Ben Walsh to the Canal Corporation as we chart the next century for the organization. His experience guiding transformative projects in Syracuse demonstrates a pragmatic approach to economic development, stakeholder collaboration, and long-term sustainability. As we continue to revitalize the Canals to drive recreation, tourism, and economic growth, Mayor Walsh’s vision and expertise will be invaluable in ensuring that this historic system remains a source of pride for New York State.”
Photo from City of Syracuse: Mayor Ben Walsh
An outdoor enthusiast and lifelong New Yorker, Walsh holds an MPA from the Maxwell School at Syracuse University and is a graduate of Ithaca College. Before becoming mayor, Walsh played key roles in the creation of the Greater Syracuse Land Bank and the redevelopment of the historic Hotel Syracuse, earning a reputation as a pragmatic leader who brings stakeholders together to achieve meaningful results.
As mayor, he has worked closely with New York State to advance transformative projects, including leading the City’s efforts on the over $2 billion I-81 Community Grid and partnering with the state on the redevelopment of the former Syracuse Developmental Center site, where state-funded demolition and remediation are paving the way for market-rate, workforce, and affordable housing.
Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh said, “New York State’s canal system is a jewel, and I have seen firsthand the positive impact the people of the New York State Canal Corporation have made on the economy, recreation and environment in communities across Upstate New York. I am grateful to Governor Hochul and NYPA President and CEO Justin Driscoll for asking me to join the Canal Corporation team and build on the history, progress and potential of the canal system.”
Walsh succeeds outgoing Canal Corporation Director Brian U. Stratton, who will retire at the end of December. Stratton was appointed to the position in April 2011 and guided the organization through several important milestones, culminating in the recent commemoration of the Erie Canal’s bicentennial.
New York State Canal Corporation Director Brian U. Stratton said, “Ben Walsh is a proven municipal chief executive and independent thinker to steer New York’s 200-year-old Canal system into its next century of service. Mayor Walsh will bring the proud legacy of public service and an accomplished record of leading a major upstate city on the Erie Canal to ensure New York’s iconic waterway will continue to fuel the growth and sustainability of more than 200 canal communities along its shores.”
Canal Commissioner Brian Stratton, left, is joined by JW Cook, Gov. Hochul’s Finger Lakes regional representative, in presenting a proclamation to Lynne Johnson on April 15, 2025 during the county’s bicentennial celebration. Stratton said the Erie Canal, which also celebrated its bicentennial this year, will continue to be an important resource for Orleans County for many years to come.
About NYPA
NYPA is the largest state public power organization in the nation, operating 17 generating facilities and more than 1,550 circuit-miles of transmission lines. More than 80 percent of the electricity NYPA produces is clean renewable hydropower. NYPA finances its operations through the sale of bonds and revenues earned in large part through sales of electricity. For more information visit www.nypa.gov and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
About the New York State Canal Corporation
New York’s Canal system includes four historic canals: the Erie, Champlain, Oswego, and Cayuga – Seneca. Spanning 524 miles, the waterway links the Hudson River with the Great Lakes, the Finger Lakes and Lake Champlain. The canals connect hundreds of unique communities through a network of waterways, trails, and parks that serve residents and visitors alike. The New York State Canal Corporation is a subsidiary of the New York Power Authority. Like Canals on Facebook at NYS Canal Corporation and follow Canals on Twitter at @NYSCanalCorp.
Two big quarters key Albion to narrow win at LeRoy; Oakfield-Alabama trims host Barker
File Photos by Cheryl Wertman – Wesley Olles, left, and Tyler Cody led Albion to a narrow win at LeRoy this evening.
Two big scoring quarters earned Albion a narrow 59-58 win at LeRoy this evening in a non league boys basketball game.
Trailing 17-4 at the end of the first quarter, Albion battled back with a big 25-7 second period scoring burst to rally into a 29-24 half-time advantage.
Wesley Olles scored 14 to lead that Purple Eagles rally.
Down 39-35 at the end of the third period, Albion again came roaring back this time with a big 24-17 fourth quarter scoring edge to claim the one point win.
Trailing 56-50, the Purple Eagles closed with a key 9-2 scoring run, which included two baskets and a pair of free throws by Tyler Cody and a basket and a free throw by Olles. Cody had a total of 9 points in the period and Olles and Elijah Doxey 5 each.
Olles finished with 19, Cody 16, Nate Gibson 11, Doxey 7, Nick Luft 4 and Josh Schoeberlein 2.
Albion next hosts Newfane in a Niagara-Orleans League at 6:30 p.m. Friday.
Oakfield-Alabama 47, Barker 42
Oakfield-Alabama trimmed host Barker 47-42 in a non league game as Mason Watterson scored 16 and Gabriel Smith 15 to lead the Hornets.
Anthony Taliaferro scored 16, JJ Prynn 10, Donovan Hefferon 9, Carter DerSarkissian 6 and Peyton Wagner 1 for Barker.
Barker used a 16-3 second quarter scoring edge, including 9 by Hefferon, to take a 22-11 half-time lead.
However, Oakfield-Alabama answered back with a big 22-9 third quarter scoring surge to rally into a 33-31 lead at the three-quarter mark.
Barker did rally back into a 36-35 lead at the outset of the final period on a jumper by Taliaferro and a three by Prynn but the Bulldogs could not hold the advantage.
The Hornets answered with a 12-6 scoring edge to close the game and claim the win.
Barker next visits Wilson in an N-O contest on Friday.
Lady Hawks romp to non league victory
Holley romped to a 41-16 victory over visiting Red Jacket in a non league girls basketball game this evening.
Brynn Thomas had 9 points and 10 steals, Hanna Ostrom 8 points, 6 assists and 3 steals and Alexis VanAmeronn 10 rebounds to lead the way for the Lady Hawks.
Byron-Bergen 43, Albion 39
Byron-Bergen trimmed visiting Albion 43-39 in a non league contest.
Melia Prince and Aaliyah Jones each scored 12 and Leah Pawlak 9 for Albion.
Avon 59, Kendall 44
Avon downed visiting Kendall 59-44 in a non league game.
Teagan Shaw scored 16, Mia Price 14 and Stella Kwiatek 8 for Kendall.
Elba 87, Barker 27
Elise Monaco scored 12 for Barker in the non league loss at Elba.
Barre firefighters join Santa in delivering presents to 150 kids
Photos courtesy of Barre Volunteer Fire Company
BARRE – The Barre Volunteer Fire Company provided an escort for Santa and Mrs. Claus on Sunday for the 12th annual Santa Express.
Santa and the firefighters made 35 stops and delivered presents to about 150 children. The kids were all able to spend some time with Santa.
The fire company sends out a letter in November, welcoming people to drop off gift-wrapped presents at the firehall and those gifts are then delivered by firefighters and Santa. People are encouraged to make a donation to the fire company if they get a visit from Santa and the firefighters.
Barre firefighters split into two different groups in transporting Santa and Mrs. Claus around town. They made their deliveries from 9:30 a.m. to about 4 p.m.
