By Leah Brenner, Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner at Orleans Community Health

Photo courtesy of Orleans Community Health: Leah Brenner greets a child at Orleans Community Health.

Childhood is a time of incredible growth and change – and as parents, it can be both exciting and nerve-wracking to watch your child reach new milestones.

These milestones serve as important markers of physical, emotional, cognitive, and social development, helping you understand whether your child is progressing typically. Every small achievement, from a first smile to a first step, tells a story about your child’s development. Below are some key stages and what to expect as your child grows.

Infancy (0 – 12 months)

The first year is full of rapid physical and developmental changes. By 2 to 3 months, your baby should be able to lift their head while lying on their tummy, a sign of strengthening neck and upper body muscles. Around 4 to 6 months, most babies begin rolling over, sitting with support, and making cooing or babbling sounds. By 9 to 12 months, you may see your little one crawling, standing with assistance, and even saying simple words like “mama” or “dada.”

This is also when babies begin to recognize familiar faces, smile responsively, and show curiosity about the world around them—key steps in emotional and social development.

Toddlerhood (1 – 3 years)

Toddlers experience major leaps in both language and motor skills. Between 18 to 24 months, they often start using simple words and can follow basic directions. Their fine motor coordination improves too – they can stack blocks, turn pages, and begin feeding themselves with utensils. By age 3, many toddlers walk independently, kick a ball, and engage in imaginative play. Socially, they start to learn about sharing, taking turns, and expressing emotions.

It’s also common for toddlers to experience frustration as they learn to communicate and assert independence. Consistent routines, patient guidance, and encouragement from caregivers can make a big difference during this stage.

Preschool (3 – 5 years)

Preschoolers are curious, energetic learners. Between ages 3 to 4, children typically begin forming short sentences and love to tell stories. They can draw basic shapes, recognize some letters and numbers, and demonstrate a growing attention span. By ages 4 to 5, they refine motor skills like running, jumping, and climbing. Socially and emotionally, this is a time of growth in empathy, cooperation, and friendship-building.

Children also begin to develop self-control, creativity, and problem-solving skills through play, which is a vital part of learning at this age.

School Age (5 – 12 years)

Once children start school, their physical growth slows slightly while their cognitive and social skills expand rapidly. Around ages 6 to 7, many begin reading simple books, learning basic math, and developing hand-eye coordination through writing and play. They start to understand rules and routines, helping them navigate the classroom environment. By ages 10 to 12, children are capable of complex problem-solving and navigating more sophisticated social relationships. They also start taking on more independence and responsibility, both at home and in school.

Parents can encourage development by supporting hobbies, promoting healthy friendships, and keeping up with regular check-ups and screenings.

Every child develops at their own pace—there’s no single “right” timeline. These milestones simply offer a guide to what’s typical during each stage of growth. Regular well-child visits are important for tracking progress and addressing concerns early. If you ever have questions about your child’s development, reach out to a pediatrician. Early support and intervention can make all the difference in helping your child thrive and achieve their full potential.

Press Release, UConnectCare

Photo courtesy of UConnectCare: John Bennett, former executive director of UConnectCare, and Kathy Hodgins, the current executive director, display the gifts they received in appreciation of their leadership of UConnectCare at the agency’s 50th Anniversary Gala & Silent Auction on Sept. 25 at Terry Hills Restaurant.

BATAVIA – In celebrating 50 years of service to the community, UConnectCare Chief Executive Officer Kathy Hodgins credited past and present employees for striving to “treat people with kindness and dignity.”

The nonprofit substance use treatment, prevention, residential, detox and recovery services agency marked its half-century of operation on Thursday night with a 50th Anniversary Gala & Silent Auction at Terry Hills Restaurant in Batavia.

Until 2023, it was known as Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse.

Hodgins, who began her career at UConnectCare in 2002 as an intern, said many of those who choose this field of work have been affected by drug and/or alcohol use in their families.

“Some are in recovery themselves,” she said to the 90 people at the dinner. “All of us come to work to walk alongside people struggling with substance use disorder. We serve some of the most vulnerable people in our community and we serve them with compassion, respect and dignity.”

Hodgins acknowledged the agency’s leaders who came before her, starting with Robert Hoover in 1975 and continuing with Faith (Cole) Peterson from 1985-88, Sharon McWethy from 1988-2000, David Markham from 2000-2011 and John Bennett from 2011-2025.

UConnectCare was recognized through the presentation of proclamations from Sen. George Borrello, Chad Zambito (representing Assemblyman Steve Hawley) and Gregg Torrey, Genesee County legislator.

“We all know there’s a problem (with addiction), it’s a growing problem. But you lift people up, one at a time, and you help their lives. And that’s a beautiful thing,” Borrello said.

The UConnectCare board of directors presented gifts to Hodgins and Bennett in recognition of their leadership, with Board President Tim Batzel praising Hodgins for building upon the foundation of those before her.

“Kathy brings a deep well of knowledge, experience and unwavering commitment to our mission,” Batzel said. “Her leadership is already shaping the future of UConnectCare in meaningful ways and I’m proud to celebrate this milestone with her at the helm.”

Orleans County Legislature commends UConnectCare for services in community

Photo by Tom Rivers: Kathy Hodgins, executive director of UConnectCare, accepts a proclamation from the Orleans County Legislature last week, celebrating the agency’s 50^th anniversary. Barb Koert, outpatient treatment director, is at left. County Legislator Ed Morgan is shown in back.

UConnectCare, formerly the Genesee-Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance, started in Batavia in 1975. GCASA opened a site in Albion in 1999, offering prevention and treatment services.

“Your ability to progress with the needs of our community members needing assistance in Orleans County will forever be widespread, long-lasting and extremely appreciated,” legislators stated in the proclamation. “The Orleans County Legislature does hereby also commend you for your dedication to the Orleans County residents.”

Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments

Vaping or using e-cigarettes is a growing and urgent public health concern in Genesee and Orleans counties.

The 2023 Youth Survey (CLYDE) survey, done by UConnectCare, shows that vaping remains a concern among local youth. In the survey, 6% of 9th graders, 5% of 10th graders, 8% of 11th graders, and 13% of 12th graders reported using a vape with nicotine in the past 30 days. Additionally, 8% of 11th graders and 10% of 12th graders surveyed indicated that they used a vape with marijuana during that same period.

“This trend is a growing concern for parents, schools, and health officials,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health). “Starting nicotine use at a young age can harm brain development, create long-term dependence, and raise the risk of future substance use.”

Protecting the youth in our community is a shared responsibility. By staying informed about vaping and talking openly at home, you can make a meaningful difference in helping young people avoid or quit vaping.

For guidance on how to effectively support youth, explore the tips and strategies below.

For parents, caregivers, and supportive adults:

• Be a role model: Set a positive example for your children by living a tobacco-free lifestyle. If you use tobacco, make efforts to quit.
• Create a tobacco-free home: Keep your children safe by preventing exposure to secondhand smoke from cigarettes, cigars, and vapes.
• Start the conversation early: Talk with your kids about the risks and harms of vaping. Keep them informed about how no form of tobacco is safe. Start the conversations early and be consistent.
• Be informed: Find the facts about vaping at trusted sites like CDC.gov/Vaping. You can also ask your child’s health care provider for more information.

How to talk to your child about vaping:

• Create a safe space: Stay calm, do not judge, and listen to your child more than you speak.
• Choose the right moment: Use everyday moments, such as seeing a vaping ad or someone vaping, to start a conversation.
• Be honest and clear: Answer questions with the truth and share science-based facts. Talk about how nicotine can harm the brain and general health.

Get Help Today

If you want to quit, or know someone who does, there is help:

• New York State Smokers’ Quitline: Call 866-NY-QUITS (866-697-8487) or visit their website to get more information and support on quitting. You may also qualify for a free starter kit with nicotine patches, gum, or lozenges, and you can talk with a quit coach.
• Drop the Vape: A free and anonymous text program for youth and young adults. Text: DROPTHEVAPE to 88709
• Talk to your healthcare provider. Ask about medications and counseling to help with cravings. Most health insurance, including Medicaid, cover services to help you quit.

Learn More About GO Health Programs and Services

Visit GOHealthNY.org or contact your local health department at:

• Orleans County: 585-589-3278
• Genesee County: 585-344-2580 ext. 5555

Follow GO Health on Facebook, Instagram and X at GOHealthNY.

Jim Luckman is director of facilities for maintenance while Amanda Luckman serves as director of admissions

Photo by Ginny Kropf: Jim Luckman and his daughter Amanda have combined more than half a century of employment at Medina Memorial Hospital. He is director of facilities (maintenance) and she is director of admissions.

MEDINA – Carrying on the tradition of family members who have worked at Medina Memorial Hospital are Jim Luckman and his daughter Amanda.

Combined, their employment totals more than half a century.

Jim first came there in the early 1980s when he had just graduated from high school and was looking for a job.

“Housekeeping had an opening and I applied,” Jim said. “Then I transferred into maintenance as a maintenance helper, then maintenance mechanic, maintenance foreman and now I am director of facilities for maintenance.”

At the time he started, the first floor was a medical wing, he said.

Amanda’s first job there was in patient registration. She was also an aide, so she got to work with the Emergency Room secretary, she said.

Initially, Amanda said she had worked at Orchard Manor where they had rehab and she realized Medina hospital had services that needed to be marketed. She came to the hospital to work in rehab and was here five years until going to Orchard Manor for two years and finally returning to the hospital.

“Since then, we have doubled our census and are looking at even higher numbers this year,” Amanda said. “It’s great to know I got to grow up visiting the hospital with dad working here, and now I get to share the hospital I love with the community.”

Like several other relatives who have been employed there, Jim and Amanda were both born at Medina Memorial Hospital. The nursery is now Jim’s office.

 “The rocking horse banners are still up in there,” he said.

“Few families in our storied history have touched more areas than the Luckmans,” said Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communication and Outreach. “Jim brings a deep knowledge of how each facility operates, and has evolved over time, while Amanda’s competitive spirit drives her to continually provide the best care to patients. Together, they represent the best of dedication and service at Orleans Community Health.”

This photo submitted by Scott Robinson shows hospital staff readying for an expansion. At left are Donnie Pellegino, Mike Sergeant and current facilities manager Jim Luckman. At right are Dr. Kennth Brooks, Gene Albone and Lyman Sanford.

Jim and Amanda’s jobs interact, in that he is in charge of the van drivers who take patients to appointments outside the hospital and Amanda schedules their appointments.

“Everybody refers to him as ‘Jim-Dad,” Amanda said.

“That came about with the first e-mail I sent her, and I wasn’t sure how to address her,” Jim said. “So I put ‘Amanda-daughter.’ I still have that e-mail.”

Jim said he has had a good career at the hospital and he has no plans to retire.

“I’d like to work until I’m 75,” he said. “There have been a lot of good times and a lot of bad times.”

He shared his kids grew up attending special events at the hospital, such as the “Mash” clinics and Teddy Bear clinics.

Day-to-day, Jim and Amanda only see each other in passing, they said.

“We keep it professional,” Jim said. “I’m busy. Besides the main hospital, I take care of five other sites associated with the hospital.”

Hospital, celebrating 100^th anniversary, has many family connections among workforce

Photo by Ginny Kropf: Mary Williams, standing, and her daughter Kate Brauen are two of a long list of relatives who have worked at Medina Memorial Hospital since its founding 100 years ago. Williams was a nurse who retired as vice president of Human Resources. Brauen is director of Pharmacy.

MEDINA – As Medina Memorial Hospital continues celebration of its 100th anniversary, the spotlight is on another pair of relatives who have been employed there.

“Sometimes leadership runs in the family, and that’s certainly true for Mary Williams and her daughter Kate Brauen,” said Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communications and Outreach at Orleans Community Health.

Mary Williams, who retired as vice president of Human Resources, worked there a total of 50 years. Her daughter, Kate Brauen, worked there for 12 years as staff pharmacist until taking the job as director in 2015.

“Mary may be retired, but she continues to give back as a member of the OCH board of directors,” Robinson said. “Meanwhile, Kate not only leads her department with dedication, but also jumps in to support community events and wellness clinics at every opportunity.”

Williams started her career as a nursing student in 1971, during which time she worked weekends at the hospital. She became a licensed practical nurse and registered nurse, working in the medical/surgical departments. After receiving her bachelor’s degree, she pursued her masters, and then went into administration. Her career also included working in the ICU, until she retired in 2022.

Brauen and her mother were both born at Medina Memorial Hospital.

“I went to college to become a pharmacist,” Brauen said. “I worked during school for Steve Giroux at the drug store in Middleport. I came to Medina hospital as a student to volunteer for the experience.”

She graduated in 2002 from the University of Buffalo with a pharmacy degree.

“At the time, the hospital needed pharmacists real bad, so I came to work here,” Brauen said.

 During the time both mother and daughter were employed there, Williams said she never had to discipline Brauen.

“She was a very good employee,” she said.

Although Williams said their jobs really didn’t interact, they often ate lunch together.

“We are a close family,” Williams said.

She also shared another daughter, Suzanne, worked at the hospital per diem as an occupational therapist for a time.

“We’ve been thought lots of ups and downs and a lot of different administrations,” Brauen said.

Some of the more challenging changes were in the computer system, going to electronic medical records and implementing the smart infusion pump.

Brauen said she was also there when the hospital became a critical access hospital, went through renovation and then the pandemic.

“That was a challenging time for the pharmacy and me,” she said. “I managed all the early COVID vaccinations for the staff and North Wing, then the community. There was lots of paperwork for the Federal government and I wrote a lot of protocol.”

Brauen said the influence to go into healthcare came from her mother. She also has an aunt who is a physical therapist and another who was a pediatric nurse. However, Giroux was her mentor, she said. He was on the hospital board when Brauen was 16 and he gave her a job in his pharmacy. She continued to work there through college.

In her position as director of Pharmacy, Brauen manages two full-time pharmacists and four per-diem, who fill in when needed.

“I still work the bench to cover weekends and staff vacations,” Brauen said.

She is a really good pharmacist, her mother said.

Brauen said it is a privilege to take care of people in your community.

“We have to be ready for any critical emergency,” she said.

When all is said and done, “When you get to work alongside your mom, it doesn’t get any better than that,” Brauen said.

Press Release, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s

With science and health care under attack by the federal government, Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the release of New York State’s 2025–2026 COVID-19 vaccine guidance, ensuring residents continue to have access to vaccines and science-based information.

The guidance recommends Covid vaccination for children (6 months to 18 years old), all adults, and individuals at higher risk, including those who are pregnant, lactating or immunocompromised.

The guidelines are being released ahead of this week’s federal Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) meeting, where national vaccine recommendations will be reviewed and voted on.

“Vaccines remain one of the strongest tools we have to safeguard our families and our communities,” Governor Hochul said. “As Washington continues to launch its misguided attacks on science, New York is making it clear that every resident will have access to the COVID vaccine, no exceptions. By standing with our partners across the Northeast, we are ensuring that New Yorkers have the protection and the information they need to stay safe and healthy.”

The State guidance also aligns with consensus COVID-19 recommendations agreed upon by the Northeast Public Health Collaborative, a group of several Northeastern states and municipalities including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine, Rhode Island and New York City.

These recommendations are consistent with the Fall 2025 COVID-19 vaccination guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and the American Academy of Family Physicians.

Press Release, Independent Living of the Genesee Region

BATAVIA – The Independent Living of the Genesee Region, in partnership with the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments, is pleased to announce an upcoming focus group dedicated to the families and caregivers of Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN).

This important event will take place on two separate dates at accessible community venues to help shape future programs and services.

The meeting on Sept. 22 will be in Batavia at the Independent Living’s office at 319 West Main St., while the Sept. 24 session will be at the Hoag Library in Albion, 134 South Main St.

The focus group offers a welcoming space for parents, guardians, and advocates from Genesee and Orleans counties to share their experiences, challenges and suggestions regarding services for children with special health care needs. Input from participants will directly inform initiatives and resources designed to improve care and support for CYSHCN and their families.

All attendees will have an opportunity to have their voices heard in a supportive environment. Feedback collected will help guide future planning and advocacy efforts at the local and state level. A $50 Visa gift card will be provided as a stipend to the first 15 participants at each location.

For more information or to register, please contact April Fearby at (585) 815-8501, Ext. 401 or visit: http://forms.office.com/r/ai0daB9xfZ.

About Independent Living of the Genesee Region:

Independent Living of the Genesee Region, part of the WNY Independent Living Inc., Family of Agencies, is a catalyst for systems and individual change, enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities, while respecting diversity and promoting choices and alternatives for independent living.

Jean Wetherbee is long-time volunteer while her daughter Nancy Callara is director of Patient Financial Services

Photo by Ginny Kropf: Jean Wetherbee, right, a longtime volunteer at Medina Memorial Hospital, visits with her daughter Nancy Callara, director of Patient Financial Services, who first started working there in 1987. The mother/daughter are among a long list of relatives who have been employed at the hospital during its 100 years.

MEDINA – As Medina Memorial Hospital celebrates 100 years, they are reminded of the countless stories which make the place so special, said Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communication and Outreach.

He weighs in on two people – a mother and daughter – one a volunteer and the other an employee, whose combined years of service span nearly 70 years.

“Jean Wetherbee and Nancy Callara are two who stand out,” Robinson said. “Jean gave her time as a Twig, volunteered in many other ways and kept out community informed through her updates. Nancy, as a valued team member, is always finding ways to make the hospital run more efficiently – strengthening our stability and the care we provide. Together, they reflect the true spirit of service and teamwork that defines Medina Memorial. We’re fortunate to have them both as part of our story.”

Callara, who is director of Patient Financial Services, first came to Medina Memorial Hospital when she moved back to Medina in 1987. With a 6-week-old baby, she accepted a part-time position in medical records. That was followed with many positions – secretary for the medical staff payroll coordinator, payroll for nursing and IT revenue cycle coordinator for 10 years, after which she left to take a job at Unity Hospital in Rochester.

Callara returned to Medina in 2015 as director of patient financial services. She plans to retire next December, she said.

Her mother had retired from HSBC when they offered early retirement in 1994.

“At the end of that year, the hospital needed someone to do filing in HR,” Wetherbee said. “Nancy told me they were looking for someone to volunteer. I came in December. Then, they needed someone at the registration desk. There was also a greeter’s desk and a coffee cart in the waiting room. I would get it from the kitchen and keep it full. I volunteered half days in the mornings.”

When Liz Wagner started a new Twig group – the Lilac Twig – at the hospital, Wetherbee joined and continued supporting the hospital through her membership in Twigs, until they disbanded in 2018.

“We did a lot for the hospital,” she said. “The biggest thing was renovation of the chapel. We raised $9,800 for it. Then we bought pictures and a fountain for the North Wing, and a lot of other things. We were constantly having fundraisers in the lobby, like a popcorn machine, selling candy bars, jewelry and flowers, having bake sales and sponsored a circus.”

Callara’s son Nicholas also worked in dietary while he was in high school. After entering St. John Fisher College to become a pharmacist, he did his internship at the hospital and is now manager of a pharmacy in Denver.

When the Covid pandemic hit in march 2020, Wetherbee said she couldn’t be at the hospital until 2022, when she returned. She still does filing in HR one day a week.

“I like just being able to be out with other people,” Wetherbee said. “I’ve been doing this here for 31 years.”

Callara just wanted to remind everyone, “We are fortunate to have this hospital here and not be under a big umbrella.”

MEDINA – Medina Memorial Hospital has announced its participation in National Lung Cancer Screening Day on Nov. 8.

On National Lung Cancer Screening Day, Medina Memorial Hospital will open its doors for eligible patients to receive low-dose CT screenings. These screenings are quick, painless and proven to detect lung cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages, according to hospital personnel.

This annual initiative is a collaboration between the American Cancer Society National Lung Cancer Roundtable, the American College of Radiology, the Radiology Health Equity Coalition and Go2 for Lung Cancer. The goal is to expand access to potentially life-saving lung cancer screenings – particularly for those unable to take time off during the week.

Lung cancer remains one of the deadliest forms of cancer, with more than 125,000 Americans projected to lose their lives to the disease this year alone, according to Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communication and Outreach at the hospital. Early detection through screening can dramatically improve survival rates, yet only a small percentage of eligible individuals receive screenings, he said.

“By joining this nationwide effort, Medina Memorial Hospital is helping to break down barriers to care,” said a representative of Orleans Community Health. “We are committed to ensuring our community members have access to preventive screenings that can truly save lives.”

Community members are encouraged to contact the hospital for eligibility information and to schedule their screening appointment.

For more information, or to schedule a screening, call (585) 798-8054.

Photos courtesy of Medina Memorial Hospital: This picture shows one of the construction projects Medina Memorial Hospital has undertaken during its 100 years.

MEDINA – Orleans Community Health has spent much of 2025 celebrating the 100th anniversary of Medina Memorial Hospital. While the year is winding down, there are still a few celebrations coming up.

First, Medina Memorial Hospital continues to recognize the many employees and volunteers who have or have had relatives follow their footsteps.

This is Medina Memorial Hospital today, as it celebrates its 100th birthday.

Medina Memorial Hospital opened its doors to the public on Sept. 30, 1925, according to Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communication and Outreach, and great-great-grandson of the hospital’s founder, George Bowen.

“As we know, the challenges to rural healthcare in our area have been apparent in recent years,” Robinson said. “It’s why this event is even more momentous for our community and our team.”

On Sept. 20, the community is being invited to a family fun event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the hospital. Location and parking will be on the green space south of the hospital. This will be a family-friendly event, with several activities for children. In addition, there will be food, drinks, health and wellness resources, games and kid-friendly activities. There is no need to register, Robinson said. Just come and enjoy.

Then, from 11 a.m. to noon Sept. 30, the birthday celebration for invited guests only will begin with a short event in front of Medina Memorial Hospital, followed by tours for anyone interested.

The birthday celebration will feature a rededication ceremony, hospital update, proclamations and birthday cake.

When Medina Memorial Hospital opened its doors in 1925, it had a goal of serving the community, Robinson said. One hundred years later, they continue to strive to fulfill that original mission, he said.

Invited guests should RSVP to Robinson at Srobinson@medinamemorial.org by Sept. 26.

By Leah Brenner, pediatric nurse practitioner at Orleans Community Health

As the summer days grow shorter and the crisp scent of autumn fills the air, families everywhere are preparing for another exciting school year. Whether you’re a student stepping back into the classroom, a teacher setting up for the months ahead, or a parent adjusting to a new routine, the start of the academic year brings both challenges and opportunities.

By adopting healthy habits early, you can set yourself on a path toward physical wellness, mental resilience, and overall success.

Prioritize Sleep

Rest is essential. Children, teens, and adults should aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night. A consistent bedtime routine helps the body recharge, improves concentration, and boosts overall energy levels for the busy days ahead.

Fuel with Nutrition and Hydration

Begin each morning with a balanced breakfast, try to avoid or limit sugar-filled snacks, and make water your go-to beverage throughout the day. Proper nutrition powers both the body and mind, giving students the focus needed to learn and thrive.

Stay Active

Exercise isn’t just for athletes. Make time for at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily. Fall is the perfect season for family walks, bike rides, or even backyard games—simple ways to stay healthy while spending time together.

Manage Stress Wisely

The start of a school year often brings packed schedules and new responsibilities. Incorporating stress-management techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or relaxing hobbies can help keep anxiety in check and create a sense of balance.

Stay Organized and Connected

Maintaining a calendar is a practical way to balance work, school, and personal activities, reducing stress and improving productivity. Equally important are social connections. Spend time with friends, family, or join clubs and organizations to build meaningful relationships that support emotional well-being.

Practice Hygiene and Self-Care

As classrooms and activities bring people together, germs are inevitable. Good hygiene—like handwashing, sanitizing, and covering coughs—helps prevent illness and keeps everyone healthier throughout the season.

Set Realistic Goals and Be Present

Success doesn’t happen overnight. Create realistic goals, avoid overwhelming yourself, and remember it’s okay to ask for help when needed. Limiting unnecessary screen time also helps you stay present in daily activities, making both work and relaxation more fulfilling.

As we move into fall, let’s commit to healthier routines that bring out the best in ourselves and one another. Here’s to a happy, healthy, and successful 2025–2026 school year!

Photo by Tom Rivers

ALBION –  Orleans County Legislator Don Allport, R-Gaines, last week presented a proclamation on behalf of the Legislature to representatives from Oak Orchard Health proclaiming Aug. 3-9 as National Health Center Week. Receiving the proclamation from Oak Orchard include Dr. Danielle Renodin-Mead, pediatrician and chief medical officer; Christian Borgal, clinical operations manager for Oak Orchard in Albion and Medina; and Ella Knaak, grant writer and advocacy specialist.

Oak Orchard Health started 52 years ago in Albion and has expanded to several sites in WNY. Oak Orchard now serves 34,000 patients at 11 locations.

Community health centers started 60 years ago. There are now 1,500 community health centers in the country.

“For nearly 60 years, community health centers have provided high-quality, affordable, comprehensive primary and preventive health care in our nation’s medically underserved communities, delivering value to, and having a significant impact on America’s health care system,” Orleans County legislators stated in the proclamation.

The Oak Orchard community health center started as a migrant health project in 1973, but legislators said it has grown to include comprehensive primary care, pediatric care, dental, optical, hehavioral health and patient engagement services.

Press Release, UConnectCare

BATAVIA – “One big family, driven by hope” is the theme for this year’s International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) campaign – the annual observance that includes a local event from 4 to 7 p.m. August 26th at St. Anthony’s in Batavia, hosted by the Genesee-Orleans-Wyoming CARES Alliance.

The world’s largest annual movement to end overdose, IOAD is dedicated to remembering without stigma those who have died and acknowledging the grief of family and friends left behind.

More than 200 community events have been scheduled across the United States and around the world during the month of August to raise awareness of one of society’s worst public health crises.

Initiated in 2001 by Sally J. Finn at The Salvation Army in St. Kilda, Melbourne, Australia, IOAD spreads the message about the tragedy of drug overdose death and that drug overdose is preventable.

Goals of the campaign include:

• Providing an opportunity for people to publicly mourn loved ones in a safe environment, some for the first time without feeling guilt or shame.
• Providing information about the issue of fatal and non-fatal overdose.
• Sending a strong message to current and former people who use drugs that they are valued.

The GOW CARES Alliance ceremony will feature several speakers including Lynda Battaglia, director of Genesee County Mental Health & Community Services; Paul Pettit, public health director for Genesee & Orleans Health Departments; Erin Martin, Pastor at City Church; and Chris Budzinack, Supportive Living counselor at UConnectCare.

The event will feature live music by Groove and a Kid’s Zone. The Kid’s Zone will offer sensory bins to search for prizes, DIY canvas bags, crafts, chalk art, temporary tattoos, and games.  They will have snacks, drinks, and ice pops available. The Kid’s Zone will also include a Back to School Bash, providing school supplies for kids in all grades – items like water bottles, book bags, scientific calculators, and other basic school supplies.  Funding for school supplies is from Mother Cabrini Health Foundation and JM McDonald Foundation.

Representatives of over 30 nonprofit agencies have been invited to set up booths at the park.

For more information about the event, contact Sue at sgagne@uconnectcare.org.

‘These capital improvements will go a long way in solidifying the future of what Orleans Community Health and Medina Memorial Hospital can bring to the community.’ – Marc Shurtz, CEO/CIO of Orleans Community Health

Press Release, Medina Memorial Hospital/Orleans Community Health

Photo courtesy of Orleans Community Health: A state grant will help fund several improvements to Medina Memorial Hospital.

MEDINA – Orleans Community Health is excited to announce that it has been awarded $1,881,203 through Round IV of the Statewide Healthcare Transformation Grant Initiative to support the Medina Healthcare Center.

Opened in late 2024, the outpatient clinic was established to address the growing needs of our community. This funding will significantly advance essential renovations, ensuring the project becomes a reality.

The Medina Healthcare Center, located on the first floor of Medina Memorial Hospital in the former Behavior Health and Comprehensive Medical Rehab Units, is a specialty outpatient clinic that strives to meet the growing health and wellness needs of the greater community. Currently, it includes primary care services (all ages from pediatric to geriatric care), Ear, Nose, and Throat Clinic, Surgery Clinic, Wound Care, and Podiatry. There are a growing number of services that are being explored as future additions.

“With roughly $1.9 million coming from the latest Transformation Grant Initiative, we’ve reached approximately $2.5 million in total funds for the project,” said Megan Johnson, executive director of the Orleans Community Health Foundation. “From grants to individual donations, this innovative project is quickly becoming a reality.”

Funds currently raised will go toward:

• Patient parking lot renovations to the South
• A new fully accessible entrance on the South end of the hospital
• Elevator and staircase
• Redesigned waiting room and registration
• Hallway and room renovations
• State-of-the-art equipment
• Signage

 “As we celebrate the 100th year of Medina Memorial Hospital, there’s growing excitement for what the future holds,” said Marc Shurtz, CEO/CIO of Orleans Community Health. “These capital improvements will go a long way in solidifying the future of what Orleans Community Health and Medina Memorial Hospital can bring to the community.”

Orleans County ranks among the lowest in New York State for health outcomes, with a patient-to-primary care provider ratio of 13,400:1 – more than ten times the state average. Residents often face long waits for appointments or must travel up to an hour for essential services, a challenge made even harder by limited transportation options. The Medina Healthcare Center will remove these barriers by doubling local outpatient capacity and centralizing services under one roof.

Orleans Community Health has now raised approximately 75% of its entire goal for the Medina Healthcare Center.

New residence will serve women and children

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – UConnectCare welcomed the community on Wednesday for tours of a new residence on Butts Road that will serve women in treatment for substance use disorder. The site will also offer behavioral health care.

The top photo shows director of residential services Stephanie Nadolinski, left, and Allison Parry-Gurak, UConnectCare’s chief residential officer.

Nadolinski will be the on-site leader. She has worked 25 years for UConnectCare, which was previously known as GCASA. Nadolinski brings experience of running the Atwater House in Batavia, which provides residential treatment for men with substance use disorder.

The building will be home for 25 women including 5 bedrooms for women with children. The building contains a variety of spaces to support and continue the recovery process including counseling, group sessions and career and personal development spaces.

Kathy Hodgins, UConnectCare chief executive officer, said there are very few options in the region for residential treatment for women that also can accommodate their children. UConnectCare has five rooms where mothers can have up to two children who are 5 or younger.

Allison Parry-Gurak leads a tour of the new women’s residence for UConnectCare. The site isn’t officially open yet.

It needs a final approval  It needs a final approval for an operating certificate from the state Office of Addiction Services and Supports.

UConnectCare needs to hire nurses and LPNs to be on site 24-7. Once they are hired, Parry-Gurak said she expects the final approval will be granted by OASAS.

UConnectCare expects the site to open next month.

The state Department of Health provided a $4.6 million grant for construction of the residence. That grant doesn’t include the operation of the site, which will be staffed 24-7, including two employees at night.

UConnectCare picked Albion for the project because many of the agency’s other residential and treatment programs are based in Batavia.

Hodgins said the site will give priority to women in Genesee and Orleans counties, but will be available to women outside those counties if there are rooms available.

Parry-Gurak, the chief residential officer for UConnectCare, leads a tour of the new residence, with this photo of the kitchen.

Most of the women at the site are expected to stay several months as they work on their rehab and re-entry. The maximum tends to be a six-month stay, but Parry-Gurak said people could stay longer as long as they are working on their treatment.

Here are some other photos from the open house on Wednesday: