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Major Felony Crime Task Force honored for work keeping community safe, often behind the scenes
Task Force to receive ‘2025 Achievement Award’ from National Association of Counties
Photo by Tom Rivers: District Attorney Susan Howard speaks during last week’s County Legislature meeting about a National Association of Counties award for the Orleans County Major Felony Crime Task Force. Legislator Skip Draper is at right.
ALBION – The Orleans County Major Felony Crime Task Force will receive a national award for its collaborative efforts with local and regional law enforcement agencies.
The Task Force has made over 1,250 arrests and participated in 2,800 investigations since 2007, and has a near 100 percent conviction rate, said District Attorney Susan Howard. The Task Force operates under supervision of the District Attorney in Orleans County.
“The specialized unit is especially adept in the application and execution of search warrants, and is poised to assist other local law enforcement agencies in the effort to ensure successful prosecutions at all levels,” she said.
The National Association of Counties will present Orleans County with a “2025 Achievement Award” during its national meeting July 11-14 in Philadelphia, Pa.
Howard praised the task force, led by supervising investigator Joe Sacco, for its work with local state and federal law enforcement agencies, as well as the State Police, Drug Enforcement Agency, Immigration and Custom Enforcement, the Office of Special Investigations, the Attorney General’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
“They kind of work in the dark but they need to be recognized,” Howard said. “They work so hard behind the scenes keeping on community safe.”
The Task Force also includes investigators Corey Black and Brett Sobieraski. Black has just retired from the Task Force after several years.
“Members are experienced investigators that have worked in law enforcement an average of 20 to 30 years prior to joining, thus bringing with them a high level of experience,” Howard said. “The Task Force focuses on the war against drugs, but also handles homicides, assaults and any other type of criminal investigation.”
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County leader thanks law enforcement, county employees for response to bomb threat
ALBION – Orleans County Legislature Chairman Lynne Johnson is thanking county employees and law enforcement for a peaceful resolution to a bomb threat on Monday at the Orleans County Mental Health Building.
Daniel T. Morehead, 30, of Holley has been charged with making a terrorist threat, placing a false bomb in the 1stdegree, menacing 2nd degree, attempted assault on a police officer and harassment 2nd degree.
Johnson issued the following statement:
“Yesterday’s bomb threat and subduing of the suspect at the Orleans County Department of Mental Health thankfully ended without incident and I want to thank our Sheriff’s Office and all the other agencies that aided, including the New York State Police, the Albion Police, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, NYS D.E.C Police and our Emergency Management and Probation departments, for their tremendous efforts.
“Sheriff Bourke and his leadership team were extraordinary in controlling the situation and their use of technology, especially the drone, was amazing.
“This event shows we live at a time when incidents can seemingly happen at any time and any place. We are fortunate that our public safety professionals have the training, skills and determination to protect the health and well-being of our community.
“I also want to acknowledge our County Administrator Jack Welch and the Department of Mental Health for being prepared for such a situation and implementing proper protocols to ensure employee safety. Our Mental Health staff have a very difficult job and these types of threats are always a concern. Know we appreciate all that you do.”
Motorcyclist from Holley killed in Oakfield after hitting a deer
Press Release, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office
OAKFIELD – The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash involving a motorcycle that occurred on Lockport Road in the Town of Oakfield.
The Genesee County Emergency Dispatch Center received the 9-1-1 call reporting the fatal accident at 4:11 a.m.
Upon arrival, patrols identified the operator of the motorcycle as Michael L. Wilson, age 36, of Holley, who was operating a red 2013 Yamaha motorcycle westbound on Lockport Road.
As Wilson was traveling westbound on Lockport Road a deer entered the roadway. Wilson struck the deer, causing him to lose control of the motorcycle resulting in him being ejected off the motorcycle before coming to rest.
Oakfield and Alabama Fire Departments, and Mercy EMS responded to the scene to administer life-saving measures. Tragically, Wilson succumbed to his injuries roadside and was pronounced deceased by the Genesee County Coroner’s Office at the scene.
The accident is still under investigation at this time by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. Assisting at the scene were members of Oakfield and Alabama Fire Departments along with Mercy EMS.
Medina will celebrate Erie Canal’s 200th in a big way on Wednesday
Concerts, including Albany Symphony, with day capped by fireworks over the water
File photo by Tom Rivers: Fireworks are reflected in the Erie Canal on November 25, 2023 just before the Parade of Lights in Medina. On July 2, there will be fireworks again and they will be directed closer to the canal.
MEDINA – The Village of Medina is teaming with the State Canal Corp. for a big party on Wednesday to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Erie Canal.
The big highlights include a concert by the Albany Symphony in the Canal Basin from 8 to 9:30 p.m. with fireworks to follow at about 9:35.
There will be many vendors throughout the day and other concerts and presentations.
The fireworks will be shot in the air towards the canal. It gives a rare chance to see them reflected in the water during the summer.
“We have a nice variety of activities for adults and kids,” said Jim Hancock, chairman of Medina’s Tourism Committee.
The lineup of events includes:
- Noon to 2 p.m. – McHenry & Baz perform at the Medina Harbor Mainstage
- 2:15 to 2:45 p.m. – Medina Sandstone & Erie Canal Talk by Tom Rivers at Medina Harbor Mainstage
- 3 to 5:30 p.m. – Albany Symphony Open Rehearsal at Medina Harbor Mainstage
- 5:50 to 6:20 p.m. – Orleans Bicentennial Presentation and Meet the Pioneers/settlers skit Medina Harbor Mainstage
- 6:35 to 7:10 p.m. – Medina Alumni Jazz Band at Medina Harbor Mainstage
- 8 to 9:30 p.m. – Albany Symphony Orchestra Concert at Medina Harbor Mainstage with Fireworks Finale at 9:35 p.m.
The events are all free to attend. There are also other free daytime activities from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. including Barbara’s Bags and Bonnets, Between the Vines: Wooden Crafts, County Tourism Booth, Downtown Merchants Discounts / Specials, Lee-Whedon Memorial Library: Kids Activity Center, Medina Area Partnership, Medina Historical Society, Orleans Bluebird Trails, Orly the Ox Meet and Greet: County’s Bicentennial Mascot, Village Tourism Booth, Visual Arts show in open galleries on Main Street, and Walking Tours of Downtown Historic Panels.
There will also be several food and beverage vendors: Polish Korner, Dubby’s Pizza, The Coffee Pot, Wild Flour Deli and Bakery and Hans’s Bakery.
Albion Rotary honors Amy Sidari for community service, career running dance studio
Photo by Tom Rivers
ALBION – Don Bishop, Foundation director at the Albion Rotary Club, presents a Paul Harris Fellow award to Amy Sidari during the Rotary meeting last Thursday at the Tavern on the Ridge.
Photos courtesy of Marlene Seielstad: Amy Sidari stands with Albion Rotary Club President Tom Rivers.
The Paul Harris award is named for the founder of Rotary and is the club’s highest honor.
Sidari recently retired after 28 years as owner of the Gotta Dance by Miss Amy studio on West Bank Street. She has been a dance instructor in Albion for 38 years.
Rotary commended her for being a “dynamic force for good in Albion for the past four decades.” Gotta Dance has been a welcoming studio for people of all ages and abilities.
Sidari has used the dance studio to host many community fundraisers and events, including an annual Nicholas Kovaleski Hometown Christmas to support a scholarship in memory of Nicholas, who passed away from leukemia at age 15 in 2011. The Hometown Christmas shows raised more than $25,000 in scholarships which are given to Albion seniors who follow Nicholas’s mission of “Live with Purpose.”
Amy also puts on many shows with musicians and comedians at the Cabaret at Studio B. Those shows bring in many buses of people to Albion, providing entertainment and a needed spark for the downtown.
Sidari and her husband David have five children: Jillian, Kristin, Keith, Kyle and Gina. Amy and David also have three grandchildren: James, Jonah and Charlotte.
The Rotary Club also had the “changing of the guard” last week with a new president and officers sworn in for the 2025-26 year. Tom Rivers hands the gavel over to Dick Remley who will lead the organization the next year.
The club was busy the past year with community efforts, including the Albion Strawberry Festival, a golf tournament (with proceeds going to a transportation program at the Office for the Aging and clothing and readiness fund for the Job Development Agency). A St. Patrick’s ham dinner supported school supplies in a rural part of Honduras that were delivered by Tim Archer, advisor of the Interact Club in the school district.
The Rotary Club also completed a memorial for the 15 people who died in the Sept. 28, 1859 bridge collapse in Albion. That monument, completed by Brigden Memorials, is in Albion’s Canal Park.
The Rotary Club also welcomed many speakers throughout the year and the club contributed to other projects in the community.
Rotary last week also welcomed Michael Schmackpfeffer as a new member.
White Birch sweeps twin bill; Banes wins
White Birch swept to a doubleheader victory Monday evening downing Jr. Wilson 15-9 and Dubby’s 6-5 to improve to 6-1 in Medina Women’s Softball League ‘A’ Division action.
In the other game, Banes regained the .500 mark at 3-3 with a 15-11 win over Parkitect.
White Birch 15, Jr. Wilson 9
Aubrey Lewis, Ella Lewis and Anna Lewis each had a double and two singles and Kenzi Muck and Bekah Hoffee a double and single to highlight the White Birch offense. Maddy Boyle added 3 singles as Stacy Buckland, Dana Cotriss, Mallory Albone, Lily Kompe and Brynn Howell each had 1.
Stormi Beach had 4 singles and Sara Flansburg 3 singles for Jr. Wilson.
White Birch 6. Dubby’s 5
Ella Lewis and Buckland both had a double and a single, Cotriss 3 singles, Boyle, Albone and Howell 2 singles and Aubrey Lewis, Anna Lewis, and Hoffee 1 single for White Birch in the narrow win.
Jayden Townsend and Kelsee Soule both had 2 doubles for Dubby’s.
Banes 15, Parkitect 11
Morgan Allis and Connie Heschke both had 4 hits including a double and triple to lead the Banes attack. Krissy Scharlau, Rileigh McCabe and Teri Scharlau each added 3 hits. Krissy Scharlau’s included a double.
Breaking away from a 6-6 tie, Banes regained the lead for good by scoring 4 runs in the fourth inning on a double by Heschke, a home run by Lindsay Chatt and singles by Allis and Teri Scharlau.
Banes upped the advantage to 14-7 by scoring 4 runs in the sixth on singles by Krissy Scharlau, McCabe, Teri Scharlau, Patti Page, Sophia Goyette and Heschke.
NY launches free community college program for in-demand fields
‘SUNY and CUNY Reconnect’ covers tuition, books and fees for New Yorkers ages 25-55
Press Release, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Office
Governor Kathy Hochul today launched New York’s free community college program for SUNY and CUNY students as part of her fight to lower costs for New Yorkers and make education more affordable.
Starting this fall through SUNY and CUNY Reconnect, New York State will cover tuition, fees, books and supplies for community college students ages 25-55 pursuing select associate degrees in high-demand occupations.
“The cost of pursuing a degree should never be a barrier for New Yorkers — that’s why we’re opening the doors of opportunity at SUNY and CUNY so that students can achieve their dreams,” Governor Hochul said. “I’m fighting to make education more affordable and accessible, and the Reconnect program will continue to pave the way forward for students as they enter our State’s future workforce.”
As part of Governor Hochul’s 2025 State of the State address, free community college for adults in high-demand fields builds on her legacy of ensuring that all New Yorkers have access to a world-class and affordable education.
For the four million working-age adults in New York who do not already have a college degree or credential, the free community college program for adult students provides a valuable education at SUNY and CUNY campuses, with tuition, fees, books and supplies all covered after applicable financial aid. In addition, eligible students will have access to advising and support.
New York State has stepped up as a national leader in many emerging industries such as semiconductor and advanced manufacturing, renewable energy and AI. As a result of these investments, many of the new jobs available in New York will require workers with a degree or credential to fill these specialized positions. The SUNY and CUNY Reconnect programs will help connect eligible New Yorkers to these job opportunities.
In order to be eligible for the program, students will enroll in high-demand fields including:
- Advanced manufacturing
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cybersecurity
- Engineering
- Technology
- Nursing and allied health fields
- Green and renewable energy
- Pathways to teaching in shortage areas
In order to ensure that students have the tools they need to succeed, the program includes funding for SUNY and CUNY to support retention through wrap-around supports such as academic advising and student success coaching. In addition, it also includes funding to support marketing for effective outreach for the program.
SUNY Reconnect, launching in fall 2025, will help empower New Yorkers and serve as a powerful engine of upward mobility for hard-working adults. Through SUNY Reconnect, community colleges will hold information sessions this summer to assist all who are interested in eligible degree programs. Information can also be found by clicking here.
Holley romps in girls U15 soccer contest
Improving to 4-0-1, Holley bested Greece United 6-1 in a Rochester District Youth Soccer League girls U15 Division game Monday evening.
Addie Crosier scored 3 goals to lead the Holley offense as Carsyn Mogle, Audrianna Lana and Veronica Flow each netted 1.
GCC won’t increase tuition and fees for 2025-2026 academic year
Press Release, Genesee Community College
BATAVIA – Genesee Community College is proud to announce that tuition and fees will remain flat for the 2025-2026 academic year, reinforcing the college’s deep commitment to providing high-quality, affordable education to students and families across the region.
The decision, approved by the Genesee County Legislature, ensures that students can continue pursuing their educational and career goals without the burden of increased costs.
“Access to education should never be out of reach because of cost,” said Dr. Craig Lamb, president of Genesee Community College. “By holding tuition and fees steady, we’re giving our students and their families peace of mind, and a clear path forward. This is about empowering individuals, strengthening communities and changing lives.”
The tuition freeze is especially significant in today’s economic climate, where many families are struggling to balance rising expenses. With no increase in tuition or fees for the upcoming academic year, GCC remains one of the most cost-effective college options in Western New York, making it a smart choice for recent high school graduates, adult learners and career-changers alike.
In addition to its affordable pricing, GCC offers a wide range of scholarships, financial aid resources, transfer agreements with four-year institutions and innovative academic programs designed to meet the demands of today’s workforce.
With the 2025-2026 budget now approved, GCC is actively enrolling students for the fall semester. Prospective students are encouraged to visit www.genesee.edu/apply to learn more about applying, financial aid and the many ways GCC helps students succeed.
In Albion, ‘Joe’ has made a difference through decades of service
Editor:
The Albion Betterment Committee’s founders got together with their wives on Tuesday, June 24th, to celebrate the 93rd birthday of their inspirational leader. Without his extraordinary guidance our 501 c-3 non-profit would not exist.
This short piece is an attempt to pay tribute to him. As he shuns the spotlight, we will not mention his last name. But he is not your average “Joe”.
Yes, he is involved in many worthwhile causes, including those he supports through the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He is a lover of history and works to keep our awareness of the accomplishments of past generations alive. Being a Korean War veteran himself certainly has better enabled him to appreciate our country’s history.
Thanks, Joe, for your patriotism. You are an outstanding role model for our young people and the many generations to come. We are honored to have worked with you on a variety of projects.
Sincerely yours,
Gary Derwick and Gary Kent
Albion
Tenney seeks federal grant program to help pay for memorials honoring veterans, first responders
Press Release, Congresswoman Claudia Tenney
WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24), alongside Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), reintroduced the Remembering Our Local Heroes Act to direct the Secretary of the Interior to establish a grant program to provide funding for memorials honoring veterans, law enforcement officers, and firefighters.
“Our veterans, first responders, and law enforcement officers embody the very best of our nation, and we must honor their courage and selflessness,” Congresswoman Tenney said. “This includes preserving local memorials, which serve as powerful reminders of these heroes’ legacies and sacrifices. The Remembering Our Local Heroes Act ensures that communities in New York and across the country have the resources needed to maintain and restore these tributes for future generations.”
“First responders, members of the military, and all those who have served our nation deserve to be honored and remembered for their service and sacrifice. This bipartisan legislation will help communities in New Hampshire and across the country build, maintain, and restore memorials honoring our heroes, ensuring that they will never be forgotten,” said Congressman Pappas.
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Fireworks will be back in Albion on July 3, capping celebration at Bullard Park
File photos by Tom Rivers: File photo by Tom Rivers: Carmen Quatro stands on top of a fire truck and watches the fireworks on July 5, 2014 at Bullard Park. It’s been about a decade since there was a fireworks show at the park.
ALBION – On July 3, fireworks will be back at Bullard Park, capping a day of activities including concerts.
Many local donors contributed for the return of fireworks. It’s been about a decade since the last fireworks show at Bullard.
Several bands will be performing that evening. Ryan and Company will play from 4 to 6 p.m., 104 Country from 6 to 7:45 p.m., and The Who Dats from 8 p.m. until dusk, when fireworks will be set off.
Along with music, there will also be a chicken barbeque taking place from 4 to 6 p.m. Tickets can be purchased from G-ACRE staff members at Bullard Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 1, 2 and 3. Chicken barbeques may also be purchased directly during the event on a first come, first served basis, up until they are sold out.
The organization G-ACRE (Greater Albion Community Recreation and Events, Inc.) hosts various activities, with profits going toward the beautification of parks and other acts of service for the community.
“I personally feel this is a good thing, to come out and enjoy a very inexpensive evening and support the community,” said John Grillo, event coordinator and Albion recreation director. “There will be a big tent set up for shade if needed, but feel free to bring lawn chairs to enjoy the music.”
The Who Dats are shown performing from the amphitheater at Bullard Park last year as part of a July 3rd celebration.
The evening will include food and beverage vendors, artisans and crafters, and community organizations.
Children’s activities that will be available at the concert include bounce houses, pony and wagon rides, and face and rock painting.
The event tends to attract a large crowd. While there are plenty of parking spaces at Bullard Park, in the case of overflow, community members may also use the primary school and Town of Albion for parking purposes.
Donations to the Independence Day Celebration, as well as buying from the chicken barbeque, are appreciated. All proceeds go right back to Bullard Park and future Independence Day concerts. Checks for donations should be addressed to the Village of Albion and use the memo “fireworks.”
The day before the July 3 concert, Soul Street will be performing at Bullard Park on Wednesday as the summer concert series continues to provide to the community.
Holley man, Daniel Morehead, facing multiple charges for bomb threat at county building
Daniel T. Morehead
ALBION – A Holley man faces multiple charges today after showing up to the Orleans County Mental Health Department claiming he had a bomb strapped to his body.
Daniel T. Morehead, 30, has been charged with making a terrorist threat, placing a false bomb in the 1stdegree, menacing 2nd degree, attempted assault on a police officer and harassment 2nd degree.
Sheriff Chris Bourke said Deputy John Doyle received an alarm from the Mental Health Building at 11:47 a.m. Doyle works out of the County Office Building, next door to Mental Health.
Doyle was advised by staff outside Mental Health that there was a man in the lobby stating he had a bomb.
Photo from Orleans County Sheriff’s Office: Daniel T. Morehead arrived at the Mental Health Department claiming he had a bomb strapped to his body.
Deputy Doyle maintained a visual as additional deputies and command staff arrived, Bourke said.
Morehead was given command to exit the building. He was ordered out of the lobby, ordered to remove the vest/carrier which he had strapped to his body, and ordered onto the ground where deputies took him into custody, the sheriff said.
“Morehead was extremely agitated and combative with deputies, including kicking Lt. Steve Fox in the hand,” Bourke said.
The Orleans County Sheriff’s Drone Unit was on scene and was able to zoom in close and determine that the possibility of a threat did exist from the items visible in the bag. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Bomb Unit responded to the scene. By using an X-ray device, the contents of the bag were examined. The items consisted of WD-40, batteries, wires and other miscellaneous items, Bourke said.
Morehead was transported to the Orleans County Jail and is awaiting arraignment in C.A.P. Court today at 7 p.m.
The Orleans County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the State Police, the Albion Police, the Orleans County Emergency Management, Orleans County Probation Department, the NYS D.E.C Police and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.
“Orleans County Mental Health was evacuated during this incident and a large perimeter established for everyone’s’ safety,” Bourke said. “The Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the assisting agencies, the county employees, management staff and the public for their patience during this nearly four-hour event.”
This incident is under investigation and further charges are pending, he said.
