4 candidates form independent “Save Our Nursing Home” party

ALBION – Four candidates for Orleans County Legislature – two who have been endorsed by the Conservative Party and two by the Democrats – will also appear under the independent “Save Our Nursing Home” line during the Nov. 5 general election.

Gary Kent, an outspoken critic of the county’s plan to sell The Villages of Orleans, secured the Nursing Home line in his Legislature battle against incumbent Republican Don Allport. Kent is a Democrat and former county legislator.

Jonathan “Jack” Gillman, a Democrat and former Kendall town supervisor, secured the independent line in his race against John DeFilipps of Clarendon. They are vying to fill a county-wide legislator position currently held by George Bower, who is retiring after 24 years as legislator.

Two other newcomers to county politics also have the new independent line. Gregory “Emil” Smith of Medina and Linda Rak of Lyndonville both are endorsed by the Conservatives. Like Kent, they submitted petitions signed by at least 5 percent of the eligible voters from the 2010 gubernatorial election. Those petitions were due to the County Board of Elections by Aug. 20.

Smith is challenging Bill Eick for a district that includes Clarendon, Barre and most of Shelby. Rak is running against incumbent Lynne Johnson for a district that includes the towns of Yates, Ridgeway and a portion of Shelby.