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105-year-old vet skydives from Pine Hill Airport

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 21 July 2026 at 3:47 pm

Photos courtesy of Western New York Skydiving

BARRE – Spurgeon “Butch” Carlson leaps from a plane on Sunday with Tim Allen, the owner of Western New York Skydiving. Carlson celebrated his 105th birthday by fulfilling a dream of going skydiving.

Butch Carlson is 14,000 feet up in airplane, getting ready to jump. The plane is based at Pine Hill Airport in Barre.

Carlson lives in Stockton, Chautauqua County, about a 2-hour drive from Pine Hill. Many of his family and friends came to the airport to see the jump.

Carlson celebrated his birthday last year by achieving another goal: riding horseback. He did that with his 99-year-old brother.

This year, Carlson had a loftier goal.

Western New York Skydiving took Carlson for the tandem jump after seeing a doctor’s note giving him medical clearance, Allen said.

Butch Carlson and Tim Allen come in for a landing at Pine Hill Airport.

Carlson is elated after the jump.

Orleans Community Connects promoting digital skills, high-speed internet access

Posted 21 July 2026 at 12:21 pm

Agency will be at the Orleans County 4-H Fair next week to discuss services

Press Release, Orleans Community Connects

KNOWLESVILLE – Orleans Community Connects, Inc. is helping residents gain the skills they need to thrive in today’s digital world through its free Digital Skills Education program, providing friendly, local support that empowers individuals and families to confidently use technology in their everyday lives.

The program is delivered by the Orleans County Cornell Cooperative Extension and is available to all Orleans County residents.

As more essential services move online, digital literacy has become critical for accessing healthcare, employment opportunities, government resources, financial services, and staying connected with family and friends. Through free group classes and personalized one-on-one assistance, participants can learn how to safely navigate the internet, use email and video calling platforms, access telehealth services, search and apply for jobs, and protect their privacy online.

“Digital skills are no longer optional – they are essential for participating in everyday life,” said Nyla Gaylord, executive director of Orleans Community Connects. “Our goal is to ensure every resident has the confidence and support needed to take advantage of the opportunities available online. Come visit us and NSN at the Orleans County Fair July 27th through Aug 1st inside the Lartz building for more information on these programs.”

In addition to digital skills education, Orleans Community Connects, Inc. is helping bridge the digital divide by connecting residents to affordable high-speed internet service through North Shore Networks, with plans starting at $25 per month, helping ensure that households have access to the connectivity needed to learn, work, and stay engaged.

The initiative is supported through ConnectALL, New York State’s historic effort to expand broadband access, affordability, and digital equity across the state. Funding for the deployment of internet service and Digital Skills Education was awarded to Orleans County through the ConnectALL program.

Residents interested in learning more about FREE Digital Skills Education or affordable internet options can visit OrleansCommunityConnects.org/Programs or call 585-283-4224.

About Orleans Community Connects

Orleans Community Connects, Inc. is dedicated to strengthening community connections and expanding access to resources that improve quality of life for Orleans County residents. Through partnerships with local organizations, the initiative works to increase digital inclusion, connectivity, and access to opportunities that support education, employment, healthcare, and community engagement.

About Empire State Development

Empire State Development is New York’s chief economic development agency, and promotes business growth, job creation, and greater economic opportunity throughout the state. With offices in each of the state’s 10 regions, ESD oversees the Regional Economic Development Councils, supports broadband equity through the ConnectALL office, and is growing the workforce of tomorrow through the Office of Strategic Workforce Development. The agency engages with emerging and next generation industries like clean energy and semiconductor manufacturing looking to grow in New York State, operates a network of assistance centers to help small businesses grow and succeed, and promotes the state’s world class tourism destinations through I LOVE NY. For more information, please visit esd.ny.gov, and connect with ESD on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.

Who Dats concert at Marine Park cancelled for today due to rain

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 21 July 2026 at 11:58 am

POINT BREEZE – For the second straight week and third time this summer the Tuesday evening concert at the Orleans County Marine Park has been cancelled due to weather.

The Who Dats were scheduled to perform this evening, but the forecast shows rain, including a severe thunderstorm.

“We are SO SORRY to postpone yet another concert!” the oak Orchard Neighborhood Association posted on its Facebook account. “But we must keep everyone safe and protect all with the forecast of rain. We will celebrate at our next concert on August 4th with The Stone Age Romeos.”

Last week’s concert was and the June 30 events were rescheduled due to heat advisories.

New slate roof could start next week for Mount Albion chapel

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 21 July 2026 at 11:18 am

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – A contractor is expected to start next week on replacing the slate roof at Mount Albion chapel.

The Environmental Construction Group in Albion has removed asbestos from the roof.

The new roof will be a comparable Vermont slate. The Albion Village Board last September accepted a bid for $83,985 to remove the existing roof and replace all the Vermont slate. The slate is currently over by the Mount Albion garage across from the cemetery on Route 31.

The chapel is getting about $225,000 in restoration work. The building was constructed in 1875 with local Medina Sandstone.

The building is a focal point of the historic cemetery for people who enter through the main arch off Route 31.

Local mason Neal Muscarella last year completed some repointing of mortar on the building.

A drop ceiling was removed that revealed a vaulted ceiling had been covered up.

There will be other substantial work to follow including interior replaster of the north wall; electrical upgrades (wiring, outlets, internal and external lighting); heating unit for seasonal use; repair of plaster and vaulted ceiling; removal of old floor, repair subfloor and put in a new floor; and refurbish exterior doors and window trim.

A committee led by Village Historian Sue Starkweather Miller raised $225,000 for the chapel restoration.

Lyndonville Lions Club appreciates community support for July 4th celebration

Posted 21 July 2026 at 9:54 am

Photos courtesy of Lyndonville Lions Club: Distant View performs before the Lyndonville fireworks on July 4.

Press Release, Lyndonville Lions Club

LYNDONVILLE – The Lions Club extends thanks for those who made the 52nd annual Lyndonville Lions Club July 4th Celebration a huge success. As the Lions dodged some early morning weather impediments, vehicle malfunctions and cancellations, the show went on.

The Lions Club would like to thank all who donated time, financial support and sweet equity to make this year’s event successful. It is estimated that during the daylong event over 12,000 people visited the streets of Lyndonville.

The evening Fire Cracker Concert Series saw a record crowd in no small part due to the local band Distant View” making their debut at this event. They did not disappoint as they had the crowd rocking right up until the commencement of the Lions fireworks show. The Lions would like to extend their appreciation for the band in doing double duty on July 4th.

The Lions introduced their lawn surfing contest this year at the Firecracker concert series. Surfers showed off their best surfing techniques as they did “cutbacks and top turns with snaps” to impress the crowd who shred on their efforts.

The Spalding family was honored for their contribution to the freedom of our country as the Honor Guard performed a long-awaited military ceremony recognizing the service of Mr. Nehemiah Spalding. He is the only Revolutionary War veteran buried in Lynhaven Cemetery. This event saw 4th, 5th and 6th generation family members see Mr. Spalding after 196 years receive his full military burial honors.

The Lyndonville Lions stand in appreciation to the American Legion Houseman-Tanner Post 1603 for their participation in this ceremony.

The club would like to express a special thanks to the Orleans County Sheriff’s Department and various law enforcement individuals for their efforts during this daylong event.

The Lyndonville Lions Club stayed true to its word by recognizing community members for their outstanding efforts during this year’s Light Up Lyndonville celebration.

A special thank you goes to the Village of Lyndonville Department of Public Works, whose hard work and preparation helped make the village shine throughout the event.

This year marked the debut of Light Up Lyndonville, a new addition to the community’s July 4th celebration. Main Street was illuminated in patriotic red, white, and blue, the Lyndonville waterfalls glowed with colorful lighting, and residents proudly displayed some of their best Independence Day decorations.

The response from the community exceeded expectations. The Lions Club felt that every participant deserved recognition for helping create such a festive atmosphere. To celebrate their efforts, the club awarded gift certificates to the owners of the top five decorated homes.

While all of the winners were deserving of recognition, the greatest success of the event was the community itself. The enthusiasm and participation of residents helped establish Light Up Lyndonville as an exciting new tradition that the Lions Club hopes will continue to grow for years to come.

The Lions Club especially wanted to recognize the aerial ladder truck and giant American Flag draped over Lyndonville’s Main Street during the parade as the Grand Champion. So, the Lions extend a special thank you to Mr. James Panek and Panek Farms for their participation in this year’s event.

In closing, a “Community Thank You” concert and summer cook out was held at the Town of Yates Park to show appreciation to all those who have supported the Lyndonville Lions during their 2026 campaign.

A crowd favorite, Crash Cadillac, brought their special musical talents and entertained all attendees well into the evening under the cool breeze of the Lake Ontario shores. Attendees were treated to ice cold beverages and hot dogs as they enjoyed the music and some relief from the smokey air conditions more pronounced further inland.

Local scouts hike 53 miles at high adventure camp at Philmont, New Mexico

Posted 21 July 2026 at 8:20 am

Photos and information courtesy of Troop 28

Local scouts from Troop 28 in Medina are back home after a nine-day backpacking trek at a high adventure camp in Philmont, New Mexico.

The group is shown after summitting the Trail Peak Mountain with an elevation of 10,250 feet.

The Troop 28 crew consisted of 10 individuals: Matthew Jacobs, Joey Brueckner, Gideon Pask, Aidyn Jackson, Tony Anelli, Tyler Draper, Eli Pask, Matthew Anelli, Jay Metcalf and Todd Draper.

Philmont is a high adventure Scout camp on a functioning 140,177 acre (220 square miles) ranch in the Rocky Mountains. Philmont has been operating since 1939 as America’s largest premiere scouting destination along the original Santa Fe Trail in New Mexico.

Philmont operates 35 staffed camps and 55 trail camps, with 315 miles of trails across rugged mountain terrain. Philmont is designed to challenge participants mentally, physically and emotionally while delivering wilderness and learning adventures that last a lifetime. Approximately 22,000 scouts travel to Philmont each summer for trekking adventures.

Troop 28, who is sponsored by the Medina United Methodist Church, traveled to Philmont Scout Ranch from July 9 to July 18.  Prior to the trek, while acclimating to the elevation and climate, the crew went white water rafting on the Arkansas River in Colorado.

While at Philmont, Troop 28’s crew hiked over 53 miles in nine days, carrying their food, water, shelter and supplies in backpacks ranging from 40-50 lbs. They summited Trail Peak Mountain at an elevation of 10,250 feet and the landmark Tooth of Time peak at 9,003 feet.

The crew had the opportunity to take part in many adventure programs including archery, low and high COPE courses (Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience), fly fishing, and homesteading.

Scouts took in breathtaking views and sunrises, and even had a memorable close encounter with an adult black bear. In addition to all these adventures, participants completed a 3-hour outdoor conservation project.

Medina Mustangs FC clinches a playoff berth

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 21 July 2026 at 8:12 am

Coming up big in the clutch, the Medina Mustangs FC earned a 2-2 tie with front-running Buffalo Italia FC Monday evening at Vets Park to clinch a spot in the up coming Buffalo District Soccer League Championship Division playoffs.

Scoring the goals for Medina were Peter Martillotta on a free kick and Greg Husung off an assist from Cole Callard.

Earning a big point for the tie, Medina finishes the regular season with a 4-4-2 record good for 14 points and a spot in the playoffs.

Medina has posted a 4-1-2 record over the last seven games after opening the season at 0-3 when the Mustangs were short handed.

The tie is the first blemish on the regular season record for champion Buffalo Italia FC which will take a 9-0-1 record into the playoffs.

John Joseph, Kendall native who served 18 years with Rochester FD, honored at his funeral

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 20 July 2026 at 9:15 pm

Photos from City of Rochester

ROCHESTER – Firefighters stand and salute during the funeral procession on July 15 for Lieutenant John “JJ” Joseph of the Rochester Fire Department. Joseph graduated from Kendall and started as a Kendall firefighter before joining the Rochester FD 18 years ago.

Photo from Local 1071: John “JJ” Joseph joined the Rochester Fire Department when he was 19 and served 18 years with the RFD.

“JJ” Joseph was 37 years old. He died on July 7 from occupational cancer from his career as a firefighter.

His father Bart Joseph also has been active with the Kendall Fire Department and is retired from a 39-year career as a Rochester firefighter.

The Kendall Fire Department brought a contingent of personnel to the funeral and also a Kendall fire truck. Lt. Joseph was honored at his funeral at the Blue Cross Arena.

The Kendall FD posted on its Facebook page that Joseph began his journey in the fire service at Kendall.

“While his career eventually led him to the Rochester Fire Department, he never forgot where it all began, and we will always be proud to call him one of our own,” the Kendall Fire Department posted. “John’s courage, dedication, and servant’s heart will continue to inspire us. His memory will ride with us every time the tones sound, every time we climb aboard the truck, and every time we answer the call to help someone in need.”

Joseph worked at Engine 5 for most of his career and was the union secretary for Rochester Fire Fighters Local 1071.

“He is a young man and friend to many, an extremely hard worker, a strong advocate for our union members and a great firefighter,” Local 1071 posted on its Facebook page. “Please keep his family and the RFD in mind.”

Joseph was laid to rest at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Rochester.

The Rochester Fire Department posted this statement following the death of Lt. Joseph:

“Our thoughts are with his family, friends, loved ones, and every member of the Rochester Fire Department as we grieve the loss of our beloved brother.

“The bond shared by firefighters extends far beyond the walls of the firehouse. In moments like these, we are reminded that we are a family, united by service, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to one another.

“On behalf of the Rochester Fire Department, we extend our deepest condolences to all who are mourning this tremendous loss. May Lieutenant Joseph’s memory be a source of strength and comfort to all who knew him, and may his example continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.”

People are welcome to make a donation to the Joseph family through an online fundraiser by The Yard Foundation, which is focused on helping firefighters and their families. Click here for more information.

A Rochester fire truck carried the turnout gear for Lt. Joseph during his funeral procession.

Albion wins 14U diamond playoff semifinal

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 20 July 2026 at 8:27 pm

Improving to 8-0, Albion bested Dansville 8-4 in the semifinal round of the GLOW League 14U Division baseball playoffs this evening.

Albion will now face the winner of the Alden vs. Cal-Mum semi in the championship game on Wednesday.

Albion took the lead for good with a quick first inning run as Brody Furness walked, stole second and third and came home on an error.

The lead jumped to 4-0 in the third inning as fielders choice plays off the bats of Kyler Bennett and Giovanni LaMartina and a ground out off the bat of Bryce Saxton. Lukas Snyder ignited the uprising with a single.

Albion added solo runs in the fourth inning on a steal of home by Robert Hickman and in the fifth on a groundout off the bat of Hudson Armer. Singles by Snyder and Bennett set up that threat.

Dansville did cut the deficit to 6-4 by scoring three runs with two outs in the top of the sixth on two wild pitches and an error but could get no closer.

Albion answered with two runs in the bottom of the sixth on RBI singles by Ethan Olles and Blake Brown to close out the win.

Defensively, Hickman turned an unassisted double play at first base in the second inning.

Brycen Potter earned the win on the mound allowing 2 hits and striking out 8 in 5 innings of work.

Hawley hosting 3 town hall meetings Saturday in Genesee County

Posted 20 July 2026 at 8:25 pm

Press Release, Assemblyman Steve Hawley

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) will host three town hall meetings on Saturday, providing residents with an opportunity to receive updates on state and local issues, ask questions and share their concerns.

“Meeting with residents in our communities is one of the most important parts of serving in the Assembly,” said Hawley. “These town halls are an opportunity to discuss what’s happening in Albany, answer questions, hear concerns firsthand and learn more about the issues that matter most to local families. I encourage everyone to stop by and join the conversation.”

Residents from throughout the community are welcome to attend any of the meetings. Hawley looks forward to hearing directly from constituents and providing updates on issues affecting Genesee County and New York State.

The town hall meetings for July 25 include:

  • Town and Village of Elba from 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at Elba Town Hall, 7133 Oak Orchard Rd., Elba
  • Town of Byron from 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at Byron Town Hall, 7028 Byron Holley Rd., Byron.
  • Town and Village of Bergen from 12 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. at Byron-Bergen Public Library, 13 S. Lake Ave., Bergen.

Orleans legislators take part in national conference for county officials

Posted 20 July 2026 at 6:50 pm

Provided photo: Orleans County Legislators Lynne Johnson and Skip Draper, near center, join other county leaders from across New York for the National Association of Counties (NACo) Annual Conference in New Orleans.

Press Release, Orleans County government

Orleans County Legislature Chairman Lynne Johnson and Legislator Skip Draper today joined a delegation of county leaders from across the state to represent New York at the National Association of Counties (NACo) Annual Conference in New Orleans. Thousands of county officials from across the United States are taking part in the event.

The conference includes dozens of committee and caucus meetings, educational workshops, general sessions and more. Sessions will offer learning and practical insights on the full range of county responsibilities and domestic policy issues.

“The breadth of subject matter experts discussing issues that impact us locally makes this conference extremely important and worthwhile,” Johnson said.  “Just today, conference topics included accessing federal transportation dollars, using data to improve youth mental health services and new strategies for affordable housing.  These are the real nuts and bolts issues of governing and thankfully, it’s completely free of partisan politics.”

Johnson said that two sessions were of particular interest to Orleans County. The first was the Great Lakes Regional Forum, where Johnson shared information on the joint county dredging council she helps lead with Niagara County.

The second was a meeting of Justice and Public Safety Committee where officers with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) did a presentation on the proliferation of 3-D weapons. Johnson, who noted she and Draper both serve on the committee, said ATF officers will be coming to Albion to instruct local law enforcement on the issue.

Legislator Draper said that beyond the impressive guest speakers and presenters, the conference offers ample opportunity to talk with county leaders from different parts of the country on addressing mutual issues and challenges.

“Orleans County’s participation in the conference with other New York officials strengthens our ability to share ideas, learn what’s working in other communities, and return with proven solutions that benefit the people we serve,” said Draper.

The National Association of Counties (NACo) represents the interests of America’s counties, serving as a powerful voice in federal policymaking and a vital part of our nation’s intergovernmental system. With a membership of thousands of county elected and professional officials, NACo brings together leaders from across the country to shape national policies, share best practices and strengthen counties for a stronger America.

Elks donate $1,000 towards van for veterans

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 20 July 2026 at 5:59 pm

Photo by Ginny Kropf: Members of the Albion Elks Club presented a check to the Orleans County Veterans’ Van Service this morning. From left are Scott Galliford, commander of Holley’s Jewell Buckman American Legion Post; April Flesch, chair of the Elks Grants Committee; Mike Donahue, commander of the Albion VFW Post No. 635; Marvin and Joan Christ, members of the Grants Committee; David Kusmierczak, chairman of the Orleans County Joint Veterans Council; Jack Miles, volunteer driver; Sharon Pollock, member of Albion Elks Club; and Rick Ebbs, commander of the American Legion Sheret Post in Albion.

ALBION – The July meeting of the Orleans County Joint Veterans’ Council this morning was preceded by a donation from Albion Elks Club to the Orleans County Veterans’ Van Service.

The check for $1,000 was presented by Elks Grants Committee chair April Flesch to David Kusmierczak, chairman of the Orleans County Joint Veterans’ Council. Attending the presentation were Scott Galliford, commander of Holley’s Jewell Buckman American Legion Post; Mike Donahue, commander of the Albion VFW Post 635; Grants committee members Marvin and Joan Christ; Jack Miles, a volunteer driver for the van service; Sharon Pollock, member of Albion Elks Club; Rick Ebbs, commander of the American Legion Sheret Post in Albion; Phyllis Schrader, who oversees the Veterans’ Van Service; and Jackie Lonnen, treasurer of the Orleans County Joint Veterans’ Council.

The presentation took place at the American Legion Sheret Post on Gaines Basin Road, where the Joint Veterans’ Council held its July meeting.

Schrader was very grateful for the donation, saying one of the van service’s five vans is currently out of service, having been involved in a minor fender-bender. It is currently in Buffalo for repairs.

Schrader reported 384 veterans were transported to medical appointments in June; 68 trips were made; 3,098 miles were traveled; and 417 hours were worked by 29 volunteer drivers.

Kusmierczak announced tickets were being sold to benefit the Veteran’s Christmas Drive, which Al Kepner of Medina chairs. Tickets are 2 for $5 or five for $10. Prizes, in addition to $400, $100 and $50 with frame, include gift cards, a 250 USA anniversary quilt, dog and cat basket, a Coleman rod trip grill, and assorted baskets.

The drawing will be Sept. 5.

It was also announced that WNY Heroes Inc. will provide free breakfast to veterans at Cuppa Joe’s, 114 East Center St., Medina, on the third Friday of every month. Veterans must sign up by e-mailing events@wnyheroes.org or calling (716) 630-5020, ext. 209.

Veterans are also reminded the American Legion Patriot Trip XVIII to Washington, D.C., hosted by Assemblyman Steve Hawley, is scheduled Sept. 17-20. Anyone wishing to join the trip should call (585) 5780 or e-mail tarriej@nyassembly.gov as soon as possible.

Hochul wise to enact moratorium on large data centers

Posted 20 July 2026 at 4:26 pm

Editor:

Good for Gov. Kathy Hochul on the moratorium on permits for data centers. I have no idea if this effects the proposed center near in the Town of Alabama near Oakfield. Also, I don’t quite understand why these centers are so huge and need so much power and cooling water.

I spent my entire working life, 35 years, designing, building and repairing computers for the USAF, NASA and, lastly, when they computerized in the 1980s, the National Weather Service.

So, it’s obvious that my knowledge of computer systems is very out of date. I do know that many of the billionaires behind these centers are those who refuse any regulations of the social media platforms they run. I also know that Sister Delores’ Green Orleans folks are against the data center project. I trust their judgement.

Dennis Seekins

Lyndonville

2 taken by ambulance after chemical leak at Pride Pak in Medina

Posted 20 July 2026 at 2:19 pm

Photos courtesy of Medina Fire Department: Hazmat Teams responded to a chemical leak at Pride Pak today. The site is a vegetable processing facility.

Press Release, Village of Medina Fire Department

MEDINA – The Medina Fire Department was dispatched to Pride Pak at 7:29 a.m. for a male with chemical burns to his face.

Medina firefighters including Fire Chief Steve Cooley made the initial response. Once on site, Cooley requested a a fire response, bringing Engine 11 and an off-duty recall for Engine 12 and additional manpower.

Shortly after, several additional patients were identified and off-duty firefighters brought the other two in service ambulances to the scene.

Initial reports indicated a pump malfunction released a chemical that splashed a male and another coworker was exposed while assisting the victim and shutting down the pump, which helped limit the spill.

Several others reported the chemical had aerosolized, creating a cloud in the chemical room. Chief Cooley ordered the building evacuated and requested Hazmat Response. With the assistance of Orleans 1 (Emergency Management Coordinator Justin Niederhofer), the Niagara County Hazmat Team, including the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station Hazmat Team and the Genesee County Hazmat Team, were dispatched. Niagara County EMS Ambulance responded with the hazmat team.

The chemical was identified as Bioside HS 15%. Upon entry, Hazmat teams located a spill approximately 25 by 10 feet on the floor. They mitigated the spill, secured the equipment and utilized facility systems to clean the room. Medina crews assisted with ventilation and decontamination.

Chief Cooley requested Middleport Fire for an engine, and Wolcottsville Fire responded with a BLS ambulance. Together they provided standby coverage at the Medina Fire Station during the incident. During that time, a walkup to the station reporting an odor of natural gas on South Avenue was handled by Middleport and Medina Ambulance 62.

There were a total of three patients. Two were transported by Medina Ambulance to Strong Memorial Hospital and one refused treatment on scene.

We extend our sincere appreciation to all the agencies listed above including Orleans County Sheriffs Dispatch, Orleans County Emergency Management Office, Genesee County ESU, Niagara County Hazmat Team, Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station Hazmat Team, Niagara County EMS, Niagara County EMO, Middleport Fire Department, Wolcottsville Fire Department, NYS DEC and NYS OFPC.

Medina Fire Department worked with other first responders to mitigate a spill at Pride Pak, 11531 Maple Ridge Rd.