Ortt doesn’t want State Touring Routes funding to be scrapped

Posted 5 January 2026 at 5:47 pm

Photo from Rob Ortt’s Office: State Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt speaks at a press conference today with other state officials and local legislators.

Press Release, State Senator Rob Ortt

LOCKPORT – Today, New York State Senator Rob Ortt, along with Assemblyman Angelo Morinello, Assemblyman Paul Bologna and representatives from FAIR, called for the continuation of State Touring Routes funding and for municipalities receiving funding to fully utilize it.

The State Touring Route program was designed to provide capital funds to municipalities for the construction and repair of vital infrastructure including highways, bridges and other transportation facilities.

In 2020, the New York State Legislature created the State Touring Route program to provide additional financial support to cities, towns and villages based on mileage of state touring routes they are responsible for maintaining – prior to this program it was the obligation of the municipality to pay for these repairs or improvements. Funding is based on the amount of miles in a municipality and has been funded in the state budget since the program’s inception.

This program is different from CHIPS funding in that not all municipalities qualify for funding, but it is similar in that STR operates as a reimbursement for money spent by municipalities. Reimbursement is eligible for costs related to repairs and construction of roads, bridges/culverts, railroad crossings, traffic control devices, lighting and more.

One of the biggest issues with the program is municipalities not being able to fully utilize the funds available.

“Based on the underutilization of the State Touring Route Program, some of my colleagues are considering axing this important funding,” said Senator Rob Ortt. “For instance, in my senate district alone, nearly $34 million is available to the municipalities that qualify for this program, which remains out of the current funding. This is millions of dollars that should be put toward repairing our roads for commuters and if we need to make changes to the current program allowing for the full utilization of this money, we should as it will be to the benefit of our communities.”

“The State Touring Route program is a critical lifeline for local governments that are responsible for maintaining designated tourism routes with limited local resources. When this funding goes unused, it puts the entire program at risk and shortchanges taxpayers who depend on safe, well-maintained infrastructure. We need to ensure municipalities have both the flexibility and the support necessary to fully utilize these funds so our roads, bridges, and transportation systems get the repairs they deserve.” said Assemblyman Angelo Morinello.

“We go to Albany to fight for our region and deliver real results for our communities,” said Assemblyman Paul Bologna. “State Touring Route and CHIPS funding are absolutely critical to maintaining winter-battered roads, bridges, and infrastructure across my district. When State Touring Route dollars go underutilized, it weakens the argument for continued investment— especially because local governments are best positioned to utilize these funds more efficiently and effectively than state entities. Local government knows what the community needs and where the funding would be best spent.”

“The FAIR group, composed of transportation contractors and suppliers that advocate for addressing our infrastructure needs, was instrumental in getting the STR funding put in place and we want to see our communities take full advantage of the program,” said Brad Buyers, FAIR Coordinator of Local Infrastructure Programs. “We are attempting to reach out to local governments to help them better understand the program and hopefully work with them to advance road and bridge projects using these funds.”

Senator Ortt has offered to meet with stakeholders in these municipalities or facilitate meetings with transportation experts who can provide guidance in meeting program requirements and spending STR funds properly.

Editor’s Note: The Seaway Trail is an example of a State Touring Route. The 454-mile route goes from Ripley to Massena. It includes a portion in Orleans County – Route 18 eastward about halfway through Orleans County, and then onto the Lake Ontario State Parkway at its western terminus.

Tenney and Republicans shouldn’t cheer ‘Might makes Right’ with international relations

Posted 5 January 2026 at 3:33 pm

Editor:

Agreed, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is a bad man, a criminal. He is undemocratic, and repressive and his government has destabilized the region for years.

But attacking Venezuela the way President Trump has is criminal. It violates international law, U.S. law and our Constitution. The administration acted unilaterally, without consulting Congress as required.

Mr. Trump left the corrupt Maduro administration in power because he believes he can bully them into turning over their resources (especially their oil) to him and his corrupt cronies. While, Republican politicians, like Claudia Tenney, will just go along with this illegal and corrupt activity.

The rationale for this illegal action is very concerning. In his press conference explaining the illegal invasion of Venezuela to the American people, Mr. Trump stated that the U.S. has now replaced the Monroe Doctrine with the “Donroe Doctrine.” Which he explained supersedes the Monroe Doctrine and is outlined in the new National Security Strategy released in early December.

This document changes our foreign policy from rule-based order promoting democracy to “Spheres of Influence.” Where powerful countries create spheres of influence in their region. This aligns with Vladimir Putin and Russian foreign policies goals.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Pestov speaking about it, told reporters: “The adjustments that we see correspond in many ways to our vision.” Spheres of Influence is how Mr. Putin’s explained his invasion of Ukraine.

This major break from the rules-based order and international laws to one where “Might makes Right,” is what Republicans like Ms. Tenney are cheering and it is very dangerous.

William Fine

Brockport

DOT proposes roundabout for Route 31A/Redman Road near Brockport

Posted 5 January 2026 at 2:49 pm

Meeting set for January 13 at Sweden Town Hall

Press Release, NYS Department of Transportation

BROCKPORT – The New York State Department of Transportation will host an in-person public open house on Tuesday, January 13, pertaining to the proposed safety improvement project at the intersection of State Routes 31 / 31A with County Route 236 (Redman Road) in the Town of Sweden, Monroe County.

The open-house style meeting will be held from 4-6 p.m. at the Sweden Town Hall, 18 State Street, Brockport, NY 14420. The session will feature displays about the project and provide an opportunity for discussion with DOT representatives who will be available to receive comments and answer individual questions. No formal presentation is planned.

The intersection safety improvement project, which is scheduled to occur in 2027 and 2028, proposes to reconstruct the intersection into a modern roundabout. Other improvements include guide rails, drainage repairs and sign upgrades.

For further information, or to request a sign language interpreter or assistive listening system, contact Kayle Stettner, PE at (585) 272-3471 or Kayle.Stettner@dot.ny.gov. Please reference Project Identification Number 40C1.03.

Gas prices in NYS down 2 cents in past week, 10 cents from year ago

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 5 January 2026 at 2:35 pm

The average price for regular unleaded gas in New York State dropped 2 cents in the past week to $3.03 today, which is also down 10 cents from a year ago, AAA reported.

Nationally, the average price is $2.81 a gallon, which is down 25 cents from a year ago.

“The holiday season offered lower gas prices for travelers who hit the road in record numbers,” AAA said. “Motorists are benefitting from a strong supply of gas and the cheaper-to-produce winter blend of fuel when it comes to price at the pump.”

Oil prices remain low, AAA said, in the $56-60 range per barrel.

“Despite the events in Venezuela over the weekend, there has been little disruption in the oil markets,” AAA said. “If these trends continue, drivers should see the national average remain well below the $3 per gallon threshold in the coming weeks.”

Diesel prices are also on the decline with the national average at $3.52, down three cents from last Monday, and the New York average at $3.87, down two cents from a week ago.

Here are the average prices for regular unleaded in WNY counties:

Orleans, $3.223
Genesee, $3.068
Niagara, $3.081
Monroe, $3.083
Livingston, $3.147
Wyoming, $3.210
Erie, $3.118
Chautauqua, $3.273
Cattaraugus, $3.138
Allegany, $3.186

Triennial art leaders say Medina perfect fit for big initiative but community participation needed

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 5 January 2026 at 10:15 am

Former Medina HS will host 20 artworks with 10 to 12 others in Medina

Photos by Ginny Kropf: A handful of guests enjoyed brunch at the Triennial Hub on Saturday and participated in a discussion on ideas for Medina’s upcoming inaugural Triennial this year. From left are Karin Laansoo, co-curator; Federico Rosario, Community Engagement and Program coordinator for the Triennial Hub; and Shirley Verrico, operations manager.

MEDINA – The Medina Triennial hosted a brunch and informative session Saturday afternoon at their hub at 345 North Main St., for the purpose of explaining the features of the initiative, getting ideas and to share the Triennial’s goals and opportunities for work and volunteers during 2026.

The brunch was hosted in collaboration with the Medina Area Partnership, Medina Railroad Museum and Orleans County YMCA. Leading the discussion were Federico Rosario, Community Engagement and Program Coordinator; Shirley Verrico, operations manager; and Karin Laansoo, co-artistic director with Kari Conte.

They explained the reason Medina was chosen for this inaugural initiative, scheduled to take place June 6 through Sept. 7 in various locations in Medina, was because Medina embodies the convergence of industry, agriculture, immigration and civic life. The town is also rich in cultural and ecological significance, situated between Buffalo and Rochester and surrounded by farmland, wetlands and canal infrastructure.

When the New York Power Authority and New York State Canal Corporation met to discuss what to do with an aging waterway, they began planning this event as a broader effort to revitalize the canal. They agreed 150% on choosing Medina for the location, said Verrico. She also added that Medina has an amazingly active antique community.

“We agree with their choice 200% and I hope everyone in Medina does as well,” Laansoo said. “I was so happy when people at the community brunch applauded and agreed with Medina being the best possible choice.”

“One thing about Medina is it has a lot of landmarks,” Rosario said. “And the canal has a strong presence in the area, with Medina Falls, the aqueduct and the culvert on Culvert Road.

Laansoo said the question gets asked a lot during meetings when they introduce the triennial and explain where Medina is.

“We usually say that historically Medina was the widest point in the Erie Canal where boats could turn around,” she said. “Medina has a lot going on for a village of 6,000 people – a well-preserved Main Street, it is rich in culture and ecology, surrounded by farmland, wetlands and infrastructure. Obviously, an amazing community, as well. “

Also announced on Saturday was the creation of a book club, which will meet every third Saturday, with the first one scheduled Jan. 23. The first book chosen is The Mezzanine by Nicholas Baker, and copies were available on Saturday.

Guests take part in a discussion on Saturday at the Triennial Hub on North Main Street, sharing ideas and asking questions about the first-time Triennial expected to bring 50,000 people to Medina from June to September.

A highlight of Saturday’s meeting was the announcement of a movie to be filmed by a renowned Mexican artist and composer. Filming will be on March 28 at Medina High School, 324 Catherine St. The are looking for singers, movers, vocal enthusiasts and attentive listeners. All voices, bodies and abilities are welcome to audition. No experience is needed. Applications must be submitted by Jan. 30 by e-mailing info@medinatriennial.org.

In addition, a plea was issued for housing for artists, preferably within walking distance from downtown and the high school, mostly in April and May.

In all, 400 volunteers from the community are going to be needed, including guides who will be trained to help visitors engage with the artwork. Opening hours for sites hosting artwork are still being finalized, but public spaces with artworks will, of course, be accessible 24/7, Laansoo added.

Twenty artists will show their work at the old Medina High School, while others will be at 10 to 12 other sites, all within walking distance of downtown. Light renovation and painting at the high school have already begun, and thanks was issued to Roger and Heather Hungerford for their generosity in allowing use of the building. Most of the artwork will be on the second floor, with some on the first floor as well.

Types of art represented will include a large variety of different mediums, such as video, sound, paintings, photos, textiles, sculptures, prints and even a floating garden.

One artist who has already been here is Mary Mattingly, who will develop a garden on a floating barge. The barge arrived in the fall and work will continue on it when the water returns to the canal this spring.

Among those who attended Saturday’s brunch were Medina historian Todd Bensley and his wife Nicole.

“This is a very exciting opportunity for Medina to showcase everything we have,” Todd said.

Funding for the Triennial comes from the New York Power Authority and the Canal Corporation, Laansoo explained. In essence, NYPA functions like a self-sustaining business, using its power generation and sales to fund operations, new projects and state initiatives, all without relying on state taxes.

“The Triennial still needs to fundraise quite a bit, because everything is very expensive and it is important for it to be free to the public, so we are working hard to get additional funds,” Laansoo said.

In closing Saturday’s event, Verrico said, “We want to be here for visitors. We want to collaborate with all of you. We know art. We don’t know Medina.”

Anyone with questions should e-mail Rosario at info@medinatriennial.org.

10 entrepreneurs complete Microenterprise Assistance Program in Orleans County

Posted 5 January 2026 at 9:29 am

Provided photo: A new class has completed the Microenterprise Assistance Program through the Orleans EDA. A new class will start in the spring. Pictured from left include Michael Hughson, Peter Poodry and Kim Poodry, Carolyn Odalovic, Dawn Hungerford, Maggie Olles, Becky Harris, Stacy Buckland, Kimberly Haight and Timothy Seibert.

Press Release, Orleans Economic Development Agency

ALBION – The Orleans County Local Development Corporation celebrated the graduation of 10 entrepreneurs from its Fall 2025 Microenterprise Assistance Program on Oct. 30, marking another successful cohort in the program’s 26-year history of fostering small business growth in rural Western New York.

The graduating class represents a diverse cross-section of Orleans County’s entrepreneurial landscape, spanning industries including landscaping, property maintenance, welding and fabrication arts, professional dog training, hospitality and tourism, massage therapy, specialty food production, and 3D design services.

The Fall 2025 MAP graduates include:

Michael Hughson, Certified Dog Trainer
Peter Poodry and Kim Poodry, Riverview Campground
Carolyn Odalovic, 3-D Inspirational Designs
Dawn Hungerford, Dust and Rust Fabrication
Maggie Olles, Long Bridge Greenery
Becky Harris, Confection Connection
Stacy Buckland, Massage Therapist
Kimberly Haight and Timothy Seibert, Orleans Heating-Cooling and Property Maintenance

“This was an excellent mix of different types of businesses at varying levels of experience, which always makes for interesting course discussions and learning experiences,” said MAP Program Manager Matt Holland. “I am excited to watch these businesses develop into their next phases.”

The comprehensive 10-week program provides participants with essential business education, covering accounting fundamentals, banking relationships, business plan development, marketing strategies, legal requirements, taxation, pricing strategies, and financial management. Expert instruction is delivered by seasoned professionals from the Small Business Development Centers in Niagara and Brockport, along with local business mentors.

By program completion, each participant develops a comprehensive business plan that serves as a roadmap for growth and a critical document for accessing capital. Graduating from MAP is a prerequisite for applying to the OCLDC Microenterprise Grant Program, which awards between $10,000 and $35,000 to qualifying Orleans County-based entrepreneurs.

Program Impact

Since its establishment in 1999, the Orleans County MAP has graduated over 570 individuals, with more than 200 successfully launching businesses throughout the county. The program is funded through a combination of New York State Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds and OCLDC resources, reflecting a commitment to building sustainable economic opportunities in rural communities.

The initiative addresses a critical need for entrepreneurial support in communities under 50,000 population, providing access to business education, technical assistance, and capital resources that are often unavailable in rural areas. The program specifically supports microenterprises – businesses with five or fewer employees – which form the backbone of the local economy.

Spring 2026 Program

The next MAP cohort will begin in April 2026, with applications opening in mid February. The course fee is $300, with financial aid available for qualifying applicants based on demonstrated need. Prospective entrepreneurs aged 18 and older who maintain a permanent residence or business in Orleans County are encouraged to apply. Applications will be available in early 2026.

For more information about the Microenterprise Assistance Program, grant eligibility requirements, or to schedule an informational interview, contact Matt Holland at mholland@orleansdevelopment.org or call (585) 589-7060 ext. 1.

Massive data center doesn’t belong near wildlife refuge, Seneca Nation’s ‘Big Woods’

Posted 5 January 2026 at 9:16 am

Editor:

The idea of placing a 2.2-million-square-foot, 500 megawatt data center in the middle of several wildlife management areas and the Tonawanda Seneca Nation’s “Big Woods” is the worst idea ever!

First of all, the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge is one of many important birding areas in Western New York. A refuge for many birds to rest, nest, feed and raise their young. I learned that over 30% of the endangered short-eared owl population have been lost since the WNY STAMP project began.

The owl depends on hearing to hunt its prey. How is the owl going to be able to hear if a data center is roaring as loud as a rock concert 24 hours a day, 7 days a week?

The other species of special concern in this area is the Eastern Massassauga snake, the Northern Harrier Hawk, Bobolinks, Long Nose Bat and the Cerulean Warbler are all at risk here.

What about the demand on our power grid and water resources? The STAMP project was intended for advanced manufacturing not a power-sucking data center! The GCEDC doesn’t care about the environment and how can they be the lead agency for the SEQR? It’s like putting the wolf in charge of the sheep.

Of course they are going to push it through they will receive millions for destroying our wetlands. For very little jobs offered.

Stop WNY STAMP. No data centers next to the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge.

Evelyn Wackett

Certified wildlife rehabber

Buffalo

Tenney could offer to serve U.S. Mission to Venezuela to solve country’s severe poverty

Posted 5 January 2026 at 9:11 am

Editor:

Congresswoman Tenney congratulated Trump for his capture of Maduro in Venezuela. She stated that his capture “sent a clear message against tyranny and corruption.” It appears Tenney has strong feelings on this matter. I wonder how strong.

I suggest she volunteer to be the new Chief of the US Mission to Venezuela. Perhaps she would welcome the opportunity to govern 30 million hostile people and solve its severe poverty problems.

Jack Capurso

Albion High School 1960

Ashburn, Va.

USDA sets payment rates per acre for $12 billion ‘Farmer Bridge Assistance Program’

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 5 January 2026 at 8:34 am

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced the per-acre payment rates in the $12 billion Farmer Bridge Assistance Program.

The money comes at a time for a reeling agricultural sector that is seeing higher costs from tariffs and inflation, and shrinking markets for their crops, especially from a trade war with China.

“These one-time payments give farmers the bridge to continue to feed and clothe America and the world while the Trump Administration continues opening new markets and strengthening the farm safety net,” U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins said on Dec. 31. “USDA is making this process as simple and seamless as possible so producers can focus on what they do best – feeding and fueling our nation.”

The funding includes $11 billion in one-time payments.

These are payment rates per acre for the FBA eligible commodities:

Barley: $20.51
Canola: $23.57
Chickpeas (Large): $26.46
Chickpeas (Small): $33.36
Corn: $44.36
Cotton: $117.35
Flax: $8.05
Lentils: $23.98
Mustard: $23.21
Oats: $81.75
Peanuts: $55.65
Peas: $19.60
Rice: $132.89
Safflower: $24.86
Sesame: $13.68
Sorghum: $48.11
Soybeans: $30.88
Sunflower: $17.32
Wheat: $39.35

The remaining $1 billion of the $12 billion in assistance is reserved for specialty crops and sugar. Timelines for payments to producers of these crops are still under development and require additional understanding of market impacts and economic needs, the USDA said.

In Orleans County, the top crops in acres include 39,354 in corn for grain, 24,739 in soybeans for beans, 14,208 for vegetables, 11,590 in forage (hay/haylage), and 6,953 acres of apples, according to the county’s 20122 census of agriculture.

That census reported there are 444 farms in Orleans County that generated a market value of $223.6 in farm products in 2022. The $233.6 million in Orleans ranked 15th highest out of the 62 counties in the state.

Purple Eagles Academy wrestlers have a busy and successful tournament schedule

Contributed Story Posted 4 January 2026 at 5:44 pm

Contributed Photo – Purple Eagles Wrestling Academy wrestlers earned third place honors as a team at this weekend’s George Perry Invitstional Tournament. They include Romen Allport, Ayden Porter, Cam Eckerd, Nate Lutes, Kyle Lutes, Matthew Colmenero, Zaya Ellis, Trey Ellis and Harrison Froman.

The Purple Eagles Wrestling Academy has been busy over the last month and into the holiday season competing in five tournaments since the beginning of the season.

This weekend they competed at the George West Perry Invitational where they had 10 wrestlers place, five reached the top of the podium, and that helped the team reach a third place finish.

Here are the results for all PEWA team members:

George West Perry Invitational (Jan.4)
Harrison Froman (1st), Matthew Colmenero (1st), Kyle Lutes (1st), Nathan Lutes (1st), Romen Allport (1st), Trey Ellis (2nd), Ayden Porter (2nd), Zaya Ellis (3rd), Cam Eckerd (3rd), Major Dixon (4th).

Lou Lombardo Greece Tournament (Dec. 28)
Ayden Porter (1st), Cam Eckerd (1st), Lucas Ruggles (2nd), Grayson Buffin (3rd).

Battle of the Thrones Coronation Day (Dec. 28)
Trey Ellis (1st), Colton Moreland, (1st), Harrison Froman (2nd), Romen Allport (3rd), Royce Rotthoff (3rd), Elizabeth Colmenero (3rd), Mason Rotthoff (4th), Lucas Rotthoff (5th), Matthew Colmenero (5th), Major Dixon (5th).

Corning Youth Tournament (Dec. 21)
Colt Tumia (1st)

Battle in the Ville (Dec. 13)
Harrison Froman (1st), Romen Allport (1st), Mason Rotthoff (1st), Colton Moreland (1st), Harrison Joy (1st), Luke Joy (1st), Owen Whiting (1st), Matthew Colmenero (2nd), Cam Eckerd (2nd), Lucas Rotthoff (2nd), Kyle Schomske (2nd), Major Dixon (2nd), Jai’heem Drisdom (2nd), Lucas Ruggles (2nd), Trey Ellis (2nd), Jai’kiah Drisdom (3rd), Jaxon Francis (3rd), Zaya Ellis (3rd), Colt Tumia (3rd), Xavier Weis (4th), Kairo Bennett (4th), Ryan Coots 4th, Gunner Jackson (4th), Grayson Buffin (4th), Royce Rotthoff (5th).

Recalling some memorable Albion and Medina sectional title games at the stadium

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 4 January 2026 at 11:26 am

Today’s final regular season Buffalo Bills game at Highmark Stadium also brings an end to an era of area high school football as the Section VI playoffs have been held at the stadium since 1979 (except for the Covid season).

The Albion and Medina football teams have played a good number of sectional championship games at the stadium. In fact, the two teams took turns playing in each of the first five games at what was then called Rich Stadium, all of which were victories for the Purple Eagles and Mustangs.

This scribe has enjoyed covering all of the local title games from the sideline at the stadium. The following are a few photos from some of those memorable contests. As a sidenote, this scribe also enjoyed being at the Bills inaugural game at the stadium in 1973, a preseason contest against the Washington Redskins.

File Photos – Albion in fact had the distinction of playing in the inaugural sectional title game in 1979 as the Purple Eagles nipped Springville 13-12. Dan Monacelli, shown here picking up yardage during the game, scored all of Albion’s points. The Purple Eagles also scored title game victories over Frewsburg (49-14) in 1981, Silver Creek (35-6) in 1983 and Salamanca (15-8) in 1987.

Medina also made a very successful stadium debut in 1980 defeating Silver Creek 20-14 led by running back Eddie Bloom who is shown here in action during the game. The Mustangs also posted a title win over Cassadaga Valley (26-7) in 1982 led by running back Dave Fluellen.

The Medina – Albion rivalry was also showcased on Western New York’s biggest stage at the stadium in 1988 as the Mustangs edged the Purple Eagles 14-7. The Mustangs were led by running back Jim Snyder, shown here, who scored both touchdowns.

Most recently Medina scored a very snowy victory over Fredonia (58-6) in the 2021 stadium title contest. Here quarterback Xander Payne hands off to Noah Skinner early in the game when the snow came down the hardest.

Weekly high school sports schedule

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 4 January 2026 at 9:52 am

Weekly Schedule
Monday
Boys Basketball – Medina at Eden, 6:30 p.m.
Girls Basketball – Medina at Sweet Home, 5 p.m.; Albion at Newfane, 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday
Boys Basketball – Albion at Barker, 6 p.m.; Wilson at Roy-Hart, Akron at Newfane, 6:30 p.m.; Lyndonville at Attica, Holley at Elba, Kendall at Byron-Bergen, 7 p.m.
Girls Basketball – Roy-Hart at Wilson, 6 p.m.; Barker at Albion, Newfane at Akron, 6:30 p.m.; Alexander at Holley, 7 p.m.
Swimming – Albion at Medina, Akron at Newfane, 5 p.m.

Wednesday
Boys Basketball – Tonawanda at Medina, 6:30 p.m.
Girls Basketball – Attica at Lyndonville, Elba at Holley, Kendall at Byron-Bergen, 7 p.m.
Wrestling – Medina at Roy-Hart/Barker, Newfane at Albion, Wilson at Akron, Holley-Kendall at Lyndonville, 6 p.m.

Thursday
Boys Basketball – Lyndonville at Byron-Bergen, Elba at Kendall, 7 p.m.
Swimming – Medina at Akron, Newfane at Roy-Hart/Barker, 5 p.m.
Wrestling – Holley-Kendall at Medina, 6 p.m.

Friday
Boys Basketball – Medina at Wilson, 6 p.m.; Roy-Hart at Albion, Barker at Akron, 6:30 p.m.
Girls Basketball – Wilson at Medina, 5 p.m.; Albion at Roy-Hart, Akron at Barker, 6:30 p.m.; Byron-Bergen at Lyndonville

Saturday
Boys Basketball – Lima Christian at Lyndonville, 1 p.m.; Dansville at Holley, 3:30 p.m.
Swimming– Roy-Hart/Barker at Akron, 10 a.m.
Wrestling – Albion at Eastern States; Lyndonville at Cal-Mum Duals; Holley-Kendall at Pavilion Tourney

N-O Standings
Boys Basketball: Wilson 2-0, Medina 2-0, Akron 1-0, Albion 1-1, Roy-Hart 0-1, Barker 0-2, Newfane 0-2
Girls Basketball: Wilson 2-0, Albion 1-0, Roy-Hart 1-0, Medina 1-1, Akron 0-1, Newfane 0-1, Barker 0-2
Boys Swimming: Newfane 2-0, Akron 1-0, Medina 1-1, Albion 1-2, Roy-Hart/Barker 0-2
Girls Swimming: Roy-Hart/Barker 2-0, Newfane 2-0, Akron 1-0, Medina 0-2, Albion 0-3
Wrestling: Newfane 2-0, Akron 2-0, Roy-Hart/Barker 2-1, Albion 1-2, Wilson 1-2, Medina 0-3

Long-time Bills fan feeling emotional about final home game at Highmark

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 4 January 2026 at 9:34 am

Geno Allport’s family have been season ticket holders since 1974, a year after stadium opened

Photos courtesy of Allport family: Geno Allport holds daughter Hensley at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park.

ALBION – It’s not just a football stadium to Geno Allport. The Buffalo Bills are in his family’s DNA, he proudly says, and today’s final regular season home game at Highmark Stadium will be an emotional farewell.

Geno’s family have been season ticket holders since 1974, a year after the opening of what was Rich Stadium. The home of the Buffalo Bills has been called Ralph Wilson Stadium “The Ralph”, New Era Field and Highmark.

The Bills will move to a new $2.1 billion stadium next season. The current facility will be demolished.

Geno, 51, said going to the games has been a strong bonding experience for him with his father and grandfather, and also his son and other family and friends.

“I was born and raised there,” he said on Saturday before today’s finale. “I have all the memories with my mom, dad and grampa there. Hopefully I can create new memories with my kids in the new stadium.”

The Allports will continue to be season ticket holders at the new stadium, but Allport said people who have been in the seats close to them will have spots elsewhere in the stadium. Other long-time fans close to them opted against buying season tickets at the new stadium.

Geno was hoping the current stadium would stay. It has been significantly upgraded over the years. It is the fifth oldest stadium in the NFL.

Geno has been to every home game since 1981, including in Covid when fans weren’t allowed. Allport was able to get a job in security to be at the games in 2020.

When Geno was a kid, the family parked near the players’ lot. Geno would get their autographs and his mother would get photos of him with the Bills players. Now, they aren’t nearly as accessible.

The only game he missed was in October 2006. A freak snowstorm on Oct. 12-13, moved back the playoff game for Albion’s youth football team coached by Allport. He coached that championship game for the Albion team on a Sunday. (He tried to push the game back but the league set it for the same time as the Bills game.)

Tre Allport, 31, has been a regular with his father at the Bills games. In bottom right photo he is shown with retired quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, a Buffalo Bills legend.

Allport said the Bills have provided many incredible victories over the wins. He counts the 51-3 win over the Raiders on Jan. 20, 1991. That demolition of the Raider sent the Bills to their first Super Bowl. The Bills used their no-huddle offense led by Jim Kelly to torch the Raiders that day, running up 41 points by halftime.

“They could do no wrong,” Allport said. “Everything went right.”

He remembers another game from a dark time in the Bills era. They were 0-11 when the mighty Dallas Cowboys came to town on Nov. 18, 1984. The Bills beat them 14-3 with running back Greg Bell gaining 206 yards, including an 85-yard touchdown on the first play. The Bills finished 2-14 that season, and also in 1985.

The team became a powerhouse in the late 1980s and first half of the 1990s with Jim Kelly, Bruce Smith, Thurman Thomas and Andre Reed among the star players. They remain the only team to ever make it to four straight super bowls.

The fans would endure a 17-year playoff drought from 2000 until the 2017 season. Led by Josh Allen, the team has now made the playoffs seven straight years.

Allport loves the team, but he loves the people next to him in the stands even more.

The past 25 years, the Allports have had six seats at section 135, row 12, seats 1 through 6.

Before his family heads to today’s game, Allport will go to the Bates Road Cemetery in Medina to stop by gravesites for his parents, Gene “Lou” Allport and Pam Allport.

Geno considered ending his season tickets after this season. But his daughter Hensley, age 7, loves the team, too.

“We will keep going next year,” he said. “I don’t want my youngest one to miss out.”

He is grateful for the many friendships he’s made in the stands. They have watched his son, Tre, grow from a boy to a man. Tre is 31 and endured the 17-year drought before experiencing a team that has made the playoffs eight of the past nine years.

“I wish it wasn’t happening,” Allport said about the finale at the stadium. “I was born and raised there. It will be a sad day. I’ve been dreading it since they announced it.”

Allport said the new stadium won’t be the same mainly because many of the long-time fans who are his friends won’t be right next to him.

“You get used to the people around you,” he said. “We are all yelling to support the team. Next year we’ll be making new friends.”

File photo by Tom Rivers: Geno Allport proudly displays his love for the Buffalo Bills at his Albion home. He was the Buffalo Bills Fan of the Year in 2021. The Allports have been season ticket holders since 1974, and Geno was also recognized for his leadership with Albion youth football.

Ridgeway firefighters responded to 378 calls in 2025, a record high

Posted 4 January 2026 at 8:36 am

Press Release, Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Company

RIDGEWAY – Ridgeway firefighters & EMTs responded to 378 emergency incidents in 2025, making this a record high year for us!

Broken down:

214 EMS
9 Structure Fires, including a chicken coop fire, 3 barn fires, and multiple house fires
5 Vehicle Fires, including a lawn mower, a farm sprayer and a combine
8 Brush Fires
1 Misc. Fire – a power substation
23 Motor Vehicle Accidents, including 1 requiring extrication
10 Automatic Alarms
59 Hazardous Conditions
2 Fire Police Requests
8 Good Intent Calls
1 Water Rescue – multiple stranded kayakers on Oak Orchard Creek
19 Mutual Aid including 1 ice water rescue in Medina, 12 fill-ins to other agencies, and 9 working structure fires.

We averaged 8 personnel in attendance at each incident.

Outside of calls, volunteers hosted our normal fundraisers including 2 sportsman raffles, Fathers’ Day Chicken BBQ, 2 vendor shows, money raffle, toy show and our new trailer raffle!

Volunteers have worked multiple birthday parties, retirement parties, weddings, funerals and other rentals.

Crews attended multiple parades in Lyndonville, Albion, Medina, Middleport and Wildwood KOA!

Members even started some new traditions to work in our community even more. Firefighters & EMTs met with a Home School group to have a Fire Safety day!

Firefighters attended multiple classes. In 2025 Ridgeway gained: 7 Exterior Certified FFs, 2 went onto Interior Certified FFs, and 4 EMTs.

We are excited to see what the year 2026 brings with new members, trainings and ways we can engage our community! We’re always looking for more membership. Firefighters, EMTs, Drivers, Fire Police or even social membership are needed to help with events! We’re at our Ridge Road Fire House every Tuesday Evening at 7 p.m.

We thank all of you for your continued support to our Fire Company! Without you, there would not be an us.

The 2026 Ridgeway Fire Operational Line Officers are as follows:

Fire Chief – Tyler Luckman
Deputy Fire Chief – Kristin McAdoo
Assistant Fire Chief – Gerald Lewis
Fire Captain – Jason Bessel
Fire Lieutenant – Austin Mosher
Fire Lieutenant – Buford McAdoo
Safety Officer – Donald Marchner
Fire Police Captain – Paul Wengrzycki
Fire Police Lieutenant – (Not yet announced)
EMS Captain – Morgan Austin
EMS Lieutenant – Page Smith

The 2026 Ridgeway Fire Executive Line Officers are as follows:

President – Greg Gilbert
Vice President – Madison Austin
Secretary – Marisa Gilbert
Treasurer – Jenn Thom
Sergeant at Arms – Buford McAdoo
3 Year Director – Morgan Austin
2 Year Director – James Ryan
1 Year Director – Austin Mosher

Unauthorized military action in Venezuela just latest egregious act by Trump and complicit Congress

Posted 4 January 2026 at 8:08 am

Editor:

Yesterday, we saw another egregious act by our President. The sole purpose of this offense can be directly tied to the multitude of offenses by this Administration and its tag-along Congress.

Regime change is prevalent in our DNA, but it has never boded well for us or other countries. In fact, it is often destabilizing for a country and can cause irreparable harm in terms of the consequences and sometimes lead to civil wars.

The fact that Congress was not informed, and the President and his Administration lied in briefings to them by saying this was not going to lead to regime change. Senator Ruben Gallego repeatedly asked that question to Secretary Rubio and was told it was not.

We have removed President Maduro and his wife, flown them to New York where they will be held in a New York Detention Center in Brooklyn. I would say that is definitely regime change! Nobody should be a fan of Maduro and his corrupt government, but this brazen act was taken by President Trump and his administration.

We have a Congress, and under our Constitution, they have the sole power to declare war on a country. Why is that not respected and upheld, but instead mowed down by the ego and hubris of this President?

We have also witnessed the expected complicity by this Congress, including NY24 Rep. Claudia Tenney. Her statement praised the action of our government saying it “sends a clear message that the United States will stand firmly against tyranny and corruption that threaten US security in our hemisphere.” She also said that the Venezuelan people “now have the opportunity to pursue freedom and prosperity.”

This has absolutely nothing to do with the Venezuelans pursuit of freedom and prosperity, nor a stand against tyranny and corruption. Talk about the pot calling the kettle black! It does, however, have everything to do with the grift of this President and his administration.

Once President Trump got off script in his press conference, he was not shy about revealing the reasons he did it either. He repeatedly said “we are running Venezuela now.” And when asked why, he made no bones about how “we’ll be selling large amounts of oil to other countries.”

He is on the take for himself and his cronies. We have no money to pay for healthcare in this country, or rising cost of groceries, but he and his oligarchs are lining their pockets with Venezuelan oil money.

So, I ask you, is this what we are asking our brave military to do now? Be the muscle behind the grift and corruption? It is shameful, that this President, would send our young men and women to wage a war for the benefit of the 1%. That is the reality of today’s actions. It is most disgraceful that those in Congress, such as our Rep. Claudia Tenney, play a shell game with the truth. She does not deserve to represent us.

Time for a change!

Diana Kastenbaum

Batavia

Kastenbaum is a candidate for the 24^th Congressional District of New York.