Editor:

As Sheriff Randy Bower’s retirement is here, many in our county would like to extend our sincere thanks and wishes for continues success.

Sheriff Bower, those in your administration, and all members of the department have greatly improved citizens’ relationships with law enforcement overall. Your obvious caring for our community and dedication to providing the absolute best in protection is well worth special mention. Additionally, your involvement with youth in the county has been commendable. We are fortunate to have had you serve.

We are equally fortunate that incoming Sheriff Chris Bourke and Undersheriff Mike Mele have long proven the same dedication to Orleans County. You are leaving county citizens and the Sheriff’s Department in great hands.

Again, thank you.

Bob Harker

Clarendon

Editor:

The end of 2019 does not represent a time of closure but rather a time for new hope, new opportunity and the fulfillment of long-standing aspirations. It is a symbolic time to set new goals, raise your standards and put failures and disappointment behind you.

Although we must always look forward, it is important to reflect on what we have accomplished this year and all that we have to be thankful for. In doing so, we can evaluate what we have achieved and push ourselves even further professionally, personally and physically to even greater limits next year.

The division in our state and our nation is troubling. Politics shouldn’t be a perpetual competition as much as it should be about listening, collaboration and compromise. New York has taken on a stark progressive character the last year under one-party leadership and although I disagree with many of the current policies, I will continue to extend the olive branch in 2020 and forge a bond with elected officials as fellow New Yorkers first, not Republicans or Democrats.

Next year’s election cycle is sure to be contentious, but we will heal as a nation by always remembering to listen, respect and be kind to others.

If you are out celebrating the New Year with family and friends and choose to consume alcohol, please do so responsibly and always take advantage of the great ride-sharing and taxi services we have locally. We need to all do our part this time of year to keep our drivers and passengers safe.

On behalf of all the constituents of the 139th Assembly District and fellow New Yorkers alike, I wish everyone and their families a happy and safe New Year!

Assemblyman Steve Hawley

Batavia

Editor:

It was so pleasant to read Bob Confer’s editorial as well as The Daily News account of the first Christmas published on Christmas Day, that I wanted to add a similar reflection on the true meaning of Christmas, which is so often lost in today’s hectic world:

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16

Many today no longer believe in God or recognize his son Jesus Christ, but it is important to remember this truth. Ages ago, God the Father sent to earth his only son Jesus to this earth to be born and grow up to be a man and live among us so he would know us and understand our grief and sorrows and the difficulties  and temptations of life we so often face.

Despite this act of love, this son was despised and rejected by mankind. He often would be by himself all night as he prayed for us, then grow weary during the day as he healed, fed and gave of himself to the very ones who hated him. He owned nothing and often did not have a place to lie down and rest at night.

In the end, this son sacrificed his life as a ransom for the very people who were putting him to death. As he hung on a cruel cross, he even asked his father to forgive them for not realizing what they were doing. That sacrifice was for all mankind, even us today. It was designed to redeem all people from the curse of sin in our lives.

God the father looked down from Heaven with sorrow as he saw his infant son lying in that manger in Bethlehem, knowing he would soon grow up to die. How many of us would be willing to make that sacrifice of our own child or of our own life for someone else?

As we have busied ourselves with the preparation and celebrating of Christmas, do we really understand why we are even remembering this day? Let us try to understand the connection between the manger and the cross, and repent from our sins and accept the sacrifice of Jesus’ blood for each of us personally. Only then will we understand the true meaning of Christmas!

This is my prayer for all of you.

Wayne Lemcke

Waterport

Editor:

As the new year approaches, some people may have decided to turn unhealthy habits into healthy ones, including the decision to quit smoking!

Along with encouraging nicotine replacement therapy and counseling, how else can you help people stay smoke-free?

There are many symptoms of nicotine withdrawal, and even more habits associated with smoking. Luckily, there is one priceless technique that can curb the urge to smoke in just one minute.

Did you know that taking a couple of deep breaths can be one of the most effective ways to take the edge off a craving? Deep breathing actually helps you relax! Simply closing your eyes and taking ten slow, deep breaths may be all it takes. Delaying a cigarette for just one minute by utilizing deep breathing techniques can help that desire pass.

Breathing is one of the most overlooked activities we do, but a lot of people take it’s calming potential for granted. If healthcare providers can encourage deep breathing practices their patients can experience less physical withdrawal symptoms, and can have a positive impact on behavioral triggers.

Practicing deep breathing after meals, while drinking morning coffee and in stressful situations can very well help keep people smoke-free.

Kimberly Bank, RN, MS

Darien

Editor:

At a time when our jobs are more demanding, our news cycles faster and our schedules more packed than ever, I’m encouraging you to do one thing this holiday season – less.

Unplug from your phone and connect with the people who mean the most to you. Relax. Remember old stories and make new memories. Keep family traditions alive.

Merry Christmas! Happy Hanukkah! I hope your upcoming year is filled with new opportunities and many blessings.

Assemblyman Steve Hawley

Batavia

Editor:

In response to Mr. William Fine’s critique of my letter dated December 19, I politely suggest he consider the following:

“I am not sure what he means by licenses in New York State are not recognized federally.” This is simply a reiteration of your own statement of December 16. “Licenses issued under the Green Light Law will say ‘Not for Federal Purposes.’ They can not be used to register to vote, for passports or for benefits.”

“I suggest Mr. Harker ask the DMV officials why they are not prepared.” I instead ask why democratically controlled Albany passed a law that the responsible State Department finds ambiguous. I recollect but one other example: the “SAFE” Act, also passed by Democrats. County clerks are trying to de-tangle that mess to this day.

“The New York Times reported (3/18/19): ‘It has long been an open secret in upstate New York that the dairy industry has been able to survive only by relying on undocumented immigrants for its work force.’ Mr. Mike MaMahon, a dairy farmer from central New York, told the Times, ‘There are people out there who just say, “Send them all back and build a wall.” But they would be facing empty shelves in the grocery store if that were to happen.’” This is correct. And our store shelves stayed stocked without illegal immigrants being granted the privilege to drive. Why would that change? Immigration laws may need to be changed, but certainly not ignored.

“Undocumented (in his words illegal) immigrants.” If someone is in our country without the proper legal documentation are they not, by definition, here illegally? I’m quite sure Mr. Conrad Cropsey will put forth his knowledgeable (albeit biased) opinion. That is not to insult Mr. Cropsey. I am biased as well – just in the opposite direction.

In closing, it is quite obvious that Mr. Fine’s and my views differ greatly. As no amount of debate will likely change the other’s mind, I will not be responding further.

I wish Mr. Fine, his loved ones, and all readers of the Hub a very Merry Christmas season.

Bob Harker

Clarendon

Editor:

I was recently accused of writing without laying out the law and ignoring a litany of alleged facts – he even relies on Russian President for his information and never read House rules to know they were the same rules the Republican House used for President Clinton….And so it went.

First, I have never written to defend Vice President Biden’s son as it’s not relevant. He survived the car crash that killed his mother and sisters but ended up being a black sheep. (But even if the kid was relevant, his father did his job. That is why there was no outcry at the time.)

In respect to basic fact and law few read 5 to 7 papers a day and have the advantage of basically a lifetime of further education. (Just don’t ask me to fix the plumbing – two left thumbs.)

Every person deserves the opportunity to see the world through eyes others than Fox’s or a big name news organization produced at the dining room table. (i.e. Breitbart). This is particularly important since we live in a Congressional District that embarrassed itself just last year. It ignored lip readers and conclusive documents and reelected a felon, ex Rep. Collins, to Congress. Therefore I think it’s a wonderful thing if people start reading more and asking questions.

Since space is limited this list is fairly good starting point.

For law:

1.  Trump’s Impeachable Conduct Strikes at the Heart of the Rule of Law: Part 1

2. “High Crimes and Misdemeanors,” explained

3. Trump Didn’t Bribe Ukraine. It’s Actually Worse Than That.

For an accurate chronology of relevant fact:

The ultimate guide to the Donald Trump impeachment saga

I hope every reader, including Mr. Harker, will find this interesting, if not eye opening, fact and law.

P.S. Mr. Harker can call me what he wants. He repeats Kremlin talking points that were first in Russia Today. The fact is I am a centrist.

Very truly yours,

Conrad F. Cropsey

Albion

Editor:

Mr. Bob Harker of Clarendon in a letter to the Orleans Hub called me out for my support of the Green Light Law. I would like to try and respond.

Each state has their own laws for issuing driver’s licenses. Eleven other states have laws similar to New York State’s Green Light Law. I am not sure what he means by licenses in New York State are not recognized federally. Licenses are the purview of the state. I don’t know what federal law the state is not following.

Mr. Harker then claims that I have “great knowledge” for requirements to obtain a license. The requirements are public and Mr. Harker could easily look them up himself then he would have “great knowledge.”

Finally, Mr. Harker asks why some DMV offices are not clear about all the legalities of the law? I suggest Mr. Harker ask the DMV officials why they are not prepared.

The New York Times reported (3/18/19): “It has long been an open secret in upstate New York that the dairy industry has been able to survive only by relying on undocumented immigrants for its work force.” Mr. Mike MaMahon, a dairy farmer from central New York, told the Times, “There are people out there who just say, ‘Send them all back and build a wall.’ But they would be facing empty shelves in the grocery store if that were to happen.”

Mr. Harker asks for civility in our responses. I would like to ask the same of Mr. Harker. When he sits down to his Christmas dinner, I would ask him to remember that undocumented (in his words illegal) immigrants are in large part responsible for the food on his table and the Christmas tree in his living room.

William Fine

Brockport

Editor:

While ringing the Salvation Army bell last week in front of Walmart, I had a deeply encouraging experience.

An incredulous young man approached me holding a wad of hundred-dollar bills enclosed in a piece of paper and a rubber band. The paper was labeled $1,000. He must have thought an old geezer would know what to do with it!

After getting over the thrill of having my faith in people vindicated—if only anecdotally—I suggested we visit customer service. On the way, we passed Medina Savings and Loan (Generations Bank), the likely place from which the money had been procured.

To make a long story shorter, the young man who had unintentionally dropped the money roughly fifteen feet from where the Salvation Army kettle was located. He had evidently been asked to do some Christmas shopping for the family by an older relative.

Not twenty minutes after we checked with a very helpful woman at customer service, the “twenty something” guy who had dropped the money rushed up to me as if I had found and returned what remained of the $1,000. While his heart appeared to be visibly pulsating through his shirt, he thanked me as passionately as someone might have. He insisted on giving me a hug as well.

To the “twenty something” who deserves the credit for returning the $500 that remained, I offer this for what it may be worth. Though I never got your name—and I may be wrong—you have something money cannot buy. That thing is character. Whoever you are, and regardless of where it originated, that character is something that is likely to serve you quite well going forward.

Sincerely yours,

Gary Kent

Albion

Editor:

It is so predictable.

The majority of liberal opinions published in the Letters to the Editor here on The Hub are written by two people – Mr. Conrad Cropsey of Albion and Mr. William Fine of Brockport. Though often tempted to respond to these two gentleman, I generally do not. Their two latest letters, though, should be challenged.

Mr. Cropsey, with his legal background, should be able to cite particular laws that have been broken by President Trump. I’ve yet to see any in his letters, or anywhere else for that matter. Innuendo, “feelings”, and accusations abound. Not factual evidence.

Abuse of power? Where? Why is it that Donald Trump is the only president in our history to be singled out for a conversation with a foreign leader? The left’s claim of abuse of presidential power is refuted by the actual players involved – including Ukraine!

How is it that former Vice President Biden gets a pass for actually doing what the left accuses Trump of? Even Zelensky claims there was no pressure placed upon him. Is Mr. Cropsey aware that military aid to Ukraine was actually delivered ahead of schedule? Does he acknowledge that former President Obama refused to provide any military aid at all, opting instead for only humanitarian aid? Add to that the fact that former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s “reset buddy” Putin has stated that this is a purely political move on the part of the democrats.

Obstruction of Congress? Where? Mr. Cropsey was silent when President Clinton claimed executive privilege 14 times and Obama 9. Where was Mr. Cropsey’s indignation then?

Does Mr. Cropsey not acknowledge that this baseless impeachment attempt actually started on November 9, 2016, the day after election day? There were murmurs of impeachment before our duly elected president even took office.

This is simply the left’s feeble attempt to negate the voters’ voice from 2016 and influence the 2020 election. The very thing they have the audacity to accuse Trump of. Why is it that so many protocols were ignored in the House hearings to clearly support impeachment and silence our Republican representatives? The Democrats have failed to present a viable presidential candidate and they know it.

As to Mr. Fine, his latest letter asserts that people in this country illegally should be able to obtain driver’s licenses in New York State. Even he admits that these are not recognized federally. Does he advocate states picking and choosing which federal laws they will follow and which they will ignore? Mr. Fine claims great knowledge on the requirements for obtaining a license by people here illegally. Why is it that some county DMV offices are issuing no learner’s permits because they are not clear on all the legalities and  implications?

I fully expect negative replies to this letter. I would ask the writers to maintain civility and stick to facts as I have tried to do here.

Bob Harker

Clarendon

Editor:

Later today the House will vote to impeach President Trump. I keep hearing shouts about winning, process, and the like.

I have studied everything carefully and do not see things in that light. We tell ourselves that the Rule of Law is paramount in the United States and the world respects us because of our adherence to law and long established traditions which protect our democracy.

The House was clearly going to pass on alleged criminal matters revealed in the Mueller report that are better left to criminal authorities for investigation and review.  But after my review of the Ukraine situation which occurred after President Trump assumed office, I think the most important thing now is that we are telling the world that at least one part of our government is still able to do the hard thing and try to enforce what the Constitution, our founders, and our history require.

That is an important message that requires bravery in the face of almost certain defeat.

I guess I would also like to note that the Christian bible requires us to pray for those we hope will do better. It’s good advice for people of all political stripes and persuasions.

Conrad Cropsey

Albion

Editor:

On Wednesday, December 18, at 5 p.m., a meeting at the Lyndonville Village Hall (next to library) will be held open to the public.

At this meeting the Town of Yates Expansion Task Force will be available to answer any and all concerns of the proposed changes to the already undesirable Yates Town Park. This park was built in the mid-2000s to hopefully build community spirit.

If our elected officials would be in tune with our concerns instead of their own personal agenda, they would admit the park is a failure. Do we want to continue to pay with our taxes the $10,000 a year to maintain this park for the use of criminal activity that currently exists? Or do we say, “No more!”

Come voice your concerns on Wednesday. It is better to speak out now before it is too late to turn back versus complaining in a few years when our taxes are increased to cover enhanced costs plus the decrease of property on the tax rolls.

Do we want to accept the $2.5 million grant which we (New York State taxpayer) cannot afford to be wasted on a project that does not benefit the entire community. Come be an informed resident rather than an uninformed hearsay repeater!

Concerned Yates Taxpayer,

William Jurinich

Lyndonville

Editor:

The Green Light Law allows undocumented migrants to obtain driver’s licenses. Undocumented migrants work primary in agriculture. Richard Ball, New York State Commissioner of Agriculture told Syracuse.com on Jan. 30 that approximately half of New York farm labor force is undocumented.

Without undocumented farmworkers, farms in Wyoming, Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, Ontario counties and across the state would fail. The federal government handles immigration policy, not the state.

However, the state is responsible for the people within its borders. It is important to understand that farmworkers are important to our farms, our community and our economy.

Licenses issued under the Green Light Law will say “Not for Federal Purposes.” They can not be used to register to vote, for passports or for benefits.

To apply for a license you have to show documents of your age, identity and that you live in NYS. Then they will take the same written and road test the rest of the residents in the state take. If they pass, they can obtain a driver’s license, register their car and obtain car insurance. Studies in states that have similar laws shows a lower average traffic fatality rate.

The Business Council of New York, the state’s largest business lobbying group, supports the law. They point out that this law will create business opportunities, and benefit employers such as farmers.

The Green Light Law will make it easier for farmworkers to participate in their communities, their schools and churches. It makes our roads safer, and it helps our economy grow. Forcing people to be isolated from their community and limiting their economic opportunity by law (or because of personal preference of some county clerks) is a form of institutional racism.

I strongly urge the county clerks to re-consider their position on this issue.

Thank you.

William Fine

Brockport

Editor:

Once again New York State has joined New York City and many other progressive cities in another failed climate change lawsuit.

Our intellectually inferior progressive leadership continues to waste taxpayer money suing oil companies. The Exxon suit, which was based on misleading investors on climate impact, enriched only the corporate attorneys.

This lawsuit damaged Exxon investors by forcing the company to fight a frivolous suit. Courtroom observers that followed this case mentioned how ill prepared the state was after four years of discovery.

After this sounding defeat, our Attorney General issues a press release on defending the citizens of this state against big corporate interests. All she did was increase the cost to operate in New York State. How does that benefit us?

Edward Urbanik

Lyndonville

Editor:

I refer to a recent letter in the Letters to the Editor from Leonard Lauricella. We also live in the village in a 2-bed, 928 square foot house with comparable taxes.

The house was built in 1951 and other than siding, roof and over 15-year-old replacement windows has had little else done to it.

If our daughter and her husband and two grandchildren did not live nearby in Niagara County we would be headed for a state the doesn’t tax out SS income! The thought of continuing to live in the village is one that disrupts our sleep on a nightly basis!

NY State must be split so we are not taxed to support the masses that live in the big city! Furthermore, the towns and village must reduce the tax load on village residents!

Thank you.

Dayton Hausman

Medina