Editor:

Farmers know adversity well. Dealing with the unknown is part of the very nature of what we do every day. Whether it is the weather, fluctuating commodity prices or the issues that come with running a small business, we take what we are dealt and make the best of it.

Therefore, New Yorkers should be confident that farmers will help get us through these uncertain times as we confront the COVID-19 pandemic. People rushed to the grocery stores to stock up, but they shouldn’t worry that we will run out of food.

Americans are blessed with a productive agricultural community that makes food safety a priority. We have an abundant food supply in this country, and farmers and their employees are currently on the job to keep it that way. New York Farm Bureau urged the state to make agriculture an essential service, keeping us open for business and the supply chain moving.

You can also rest assured that farms are taking special precautions to keep the workplaces clean and our employees as safe as possible to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus.

Food security is national security. Today’s world is reminding us of that in a big way. Keeping farms in business must remain a priority. As we marked National Agriculture Day on March 24, let’s all give thanks to the food on our tables and the men and women who help put it there all along the food chain.

Sincerely,

John Kast

Albion

President of the Orleans County Farm Bureau

Editor:

Bob Harker attacked me in a letter so let me respond. First I didn’t blame the President “for all that is wrong in this country.” I blamed the President for his slow and lackadaisical response to the crisis.

Unlike his predecessors, George W. Bush and Barack Obama, Mr. Trump when warned of a coming pandemic did nothing. Furthermore, I cited my sources and date of publication as the NYT and Time Magazine. Mr. Harker could check on my sources. Mr. Harker writes that both the NYT and Time magazine “are known for baseless assaults on our president,” yet he provides no evidence or documentation for this statement.

Mr. Harker writes that I failed to mention that Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi were also aware of the coming pandemic. I failed to mention that because I have no evidence that they were made aware. What source or documentation does Mr. Harker have for this statement? And, second neither Mr. Schumer nor Ms. Pelosi control the levers of government that the president has. Mr. Harker confuses a House bill that was not seriously being voted on with the Senate bill that was being voted on. Senate Democrats held up the bill because it would have allowed the Treasury Secretary to dole out billions of dollars in secret without oversight.

Finally, Mr. Harker writes that I will try to dispute his “facts” when he provided no facts, evidence or documentation just opinion. Mr. Harker intentionally misstated what I said, made statements without evidence and used unrelated information to attack my letter.

William Fine

Brockport

Editor:

Replacing Article 10 procedures for siting clean energy production facilities with an Article 23 process is a serious mistake. Overriding local decision making with state directives for siting solar and wind energy projects assumes towns and counties cannot rationally decide what is in their best interests.

When people practice self-rule, they sometimes make mistakes (witness the sale of the formerly Orleans County-owned Villages of Orleans nursing facility). That is the price we pay for democracy.

Global warming is not a hoax. We must address the consequences of our arguably excessive reliance on fossil fuels such as coal and oil. The science says global warming is one of those consequences.

I applaud Governor Cuomo’s leadership on the coronavirus and many other issues. Nonetheless, in my considered opinion, those who would allow state usurpation of local control where clean energy production is concerned are mistaken.

Real human, environmental and economic consequences to siting wind and solar projects in places such as the Town of Barre in Orleans County exist.

Should the Governor stand against local self-rule on alternative energy projects in favor of an “end justifies the means” approach, he would be, in my view, unequivocally wrong. It should be up to people in the towns to determine the circumstances under which such undertakings occur in their areas. Highly productive agricultural land is used for such positive ends at a price. Increasingly endangered woodland habitat is sacrificed for such positive purposes at a considerable downside.

Yes, we need to drastically decrease our dependence on fossil fuel energy sources. But we must do so as sensibly as possible. Put solar panels on roof tops where crops aren’t grown anyway. Locate wind turbines in Lakes Erie and Ontario, or in some other location where woodland habitat capable of harboring valuable wildlife resources and removing carbon from the environment doesn’t get destroyed.

We will replace the Article 10 process with an Article 23 methodology that we will regret after those making the decision now are no longer “here”.

Sincerely yours,

Gary F. Kent

Albion

Editor:

I read with great amusement Mr. Fine’s latest attempt to blame our president for all that is wrong in this country, and indeed the world.

Mr. Fine fails to mention that many such briefings regarding the possibility of a pandemic were made not just to the Trump administration but to the Obama and George W. Bush’s administrations as well. He also fails to mention that Pelosi and Schumer were briefed as well in almost all cases. It is truly unfortunate that President Trump cannot foresee the future as he seems to expect.

His “facts” come from the NY Times and Time Magazine – both long known for baseless assaults on our president. Hardly unbiased.

I would mention also that Mr. Fine’s letter comes at a time when the Democrats in Congress have been holding up the stimulus package that our nation and its people are in urgent need. Why? Simply put because their attempts at bribery are not being accepted by those that refuse to politicize the current crisis.

They insist on trying to advance their agenda by inserting new left wing regulations and conditions on companies targeted for aid. Regulations such as stricter fuel consumption standards for airlines and auto makers. These are important issues, indeed, but to hold the economic future of our nation and its people hostage at a time like this is beyond comprehension. It is immoral.

As I am certain that Mr. Fine and most likely Mr. Cropsey will again try refute my facts with their opinions. Further comment will not be forthcoming.

Thank you.

Bob Harker

Clarendon

Editor:

I just wanted to let you know that there are still great neighbors here in Medina, helping each other out and encouraging everyone in this time of uncertainty.

I want to thank the “neighbor” girls – Natalie, Emma and Rachel Herbert – for letting us look out our window to see this caring message our driveway.

You have brought a huge smile to our family and wanted to thank you!

Gary Lemke

Medina

Editor:

No one is blaming President Trump for the coronavirus but we do blame him and his administration for being unprepared and his slow lackadaisical response.

In an October 2019 report, officials at the Departments of Homeland Security, Health and Human Services and at the White House’s National Security Council were made aware of the potential for a respiratory virus pandemic.

The NYT 3/20/20 reported “Many of the potentially deadly consequences of a failure to address the shortcomings are now playing out in all-to-real fashion across the country.” “What the scenario makes clear, however, is that (President Trump’s administration) had already modeled a similar pandemic and understood its potential trajectory.”

Time Magazine (3/19/20) reported “A few weeks after the outbreak began in China’s Hubei province in December, U.S. health officials warned Trump of the seriousness of the threat.” Yet, Mr. Trump and his administration failed to take action to ameliorate the pandemic.

At this time the Trump administration is in the courts trying to do away with insurance for pre-existing conditions. On February 10, nearly three weeks after the first reported case of coronavirus in the U.S., Mr. Trump proposed to cut C.D.C. budget about 9%.

There are still too few tests for the coronavirus, nurses and doctors are MacGyvering personal protective equipment despite a national stockpile of 12 million N95 masks and 30 million surgical masks, according to NYT on 3/20/20.

William Fine

Brockport

Editor:

As we are moving quickly through these unprecedented times with information changing seemingly by the hour, I wanted to give Holley residents an update. In an effort to comply with the Governor’s request for reducing staff in order to slow the potential spreading of the COVID-19, and to plan to provide continuity of the necessary services, we have made the following operational changes effective Monday, March 23, and going forward:

For the DPW and Water/Electric Departments, our total staff working each day has been reduced with departments divided up into teams. We have the two teams alternating between working regular hours and the other team on “standby”. This allows us to maintain the basic critical maintenance each day, provide availability and service to residents if needed, while separating staff to minimize the opportunity for an entire department to be exposed to the COVID-19 virus. Those employees that are on standby are essentially on call and will come in to work if called upon.

While we are staffed and working, all Village offices are still closed to the public, as such you will notice that the doors will be closed and locked during regular business hours. Any needs that require in-person meetings (request for a new service, building permit, etc.) should be arranged first over the phone to schedule an appointment. All voicemails will be checked regularly to ensure that residents requests will be responded to in a timely fashion. At the main office we are still accepting payments through the drop box and through online payments.

I would also remind everyone to be wary of some of the stories and disinformation going around as these can just unnecessarily add to the anxiety level. If you are looking for factual information go to reputable sites such as the Orleans County Health Department page where you will find a page dedicated to the local impact of the Coronavirus along with other appropriate state and federal links. I will also assure you that the folks at the County level have been doing a great job keeping everyone up to date, informed, and available to help answer our questions. We are blessed to have so many hard working and dedicated professionals working on this.

On a personal note I realize that these are stressful times for everyone and our main goal is to ensure we continue to provide the residents in our community the services they need. We will do our part. But, I would also ask that during these times that you look out for one another, be kind, be respectful and we will get through this. Our community has proven time and time again that during tough times we know how to come together when it matters most.

If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact the office at (585) 638-6367. My best to all of you and your families! Be well and stay healthy!

Brian Sorochty

Mayor of Holley

Editor:

This is an unsettling time for our country and our community, as we are in a public health emergency due to the spread of the novel coronavirus(COVID-19).

Your elected leaders and public health officials are working around the clock to slow the spread of the virus and provide care to those who need it. It is important to remember that we need to be prepared, not scared. Heed the advice of public health experts who agree that the most effective way to “flatten the curve,” or slow the spread of the virus, is to practice social distancing.

Below is some helpful information regarding COVID-19:

How can you be infected?

• Coronavirus can spread from person to person through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Because these droplets can travel up to six feet, public health experts advise maintaining six feet of distance from others.

• The virus can also remain on a surface or object and enter the body through the mouth, nose, or eyes. This is why it is important to wash your hands before touching your face.

How long does it take to show symptoms after being infected?

• It takes 2 to 14 days to develop symptoms after exposure to the virus. The average is about 5 days.

What are the symptoms?

• Fever

• Dry cough

• Shortness of breath

When should you seek testing?

• If you are exhibiting symptoms

• If you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for the coronavirus

•  If you have recently traveled to one of the high-risk countries

Except in the case of an emergency, please call your healthcare provider before seeking treatment in person.

While it is normal to feel anxious, there are ways to take control of the situation and be prepared. I urge you to take the following precautions to keep yourself and our community safe.

• Wash your hands often and for at least 20 seconds

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth

• Avoid physical contact like handshakes and hugs

• Stay home if you feel sick

• Avoid large crowds

• Abstain from unnecessary travel

What is the difference between “Safer at Home” and “social distancing”?

Safer at home is a stricter form of social distancing. There are some differences.

Safer at home means:

• Stay home (stay unexposed and do not expose others)

• Only go out for essential services

• Stay six feet or more away from others

• Don’t gather in groups

It is important during this national emergency that we unite as a community, follow the advice of experts, and take responsibility for our actions to #SlowTheSpread of coronavirus. For more information, visit coronavirus.health.ny.gov or call the NYS Novel Coronavirus Hotline at 1-888-364-3065.

Lynne Johnson

Chairman

Orleans County Legislature

Editor:

I received a call from Karen Sawicz, owner of Lake Country Pennysaver and Orleans Hub that struck a chord with me. Lake Country Pennysaver and Orleans Hub are small and local businesses, just like my own.

Karen, like every other small business owner right now, faces uncertain times ahead.  In spite of that, her instinct was to put together a page celebrating small business in these trying times.  Karen’s action is inspiration to me personally to continue to do all that I can to support fellow small business owners in any way that I can. Please know that the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors stands behind local businesses 100%.

The entire Board is comprised of volunteers and nearly all of us are small business owners. Any perceived lack of visibility is the result of all of us doing exactly what every other small business owner is doing right now. Over the next several weeks, as we are able to get our affairs in order, we will continue to work on a plan to support our fellow business owners in any way we can.  As you know, things are changing rapidly and it is a challenge to stay up to the minute.

As a business owner myself, I will take a minute to speak about what I am doing and what I think will help.  First and foremost, don’t panic. That is really easy to say, much tougher to practice. I have my own private meltdown moments, but as business owners, we are natural leaders, so now is our moment to shine. Over the past week, I have had to make some very difficult decisions with very little time to consider them. My focus is to ensure that my business survives so that I can go back to doing what I do – provide a service, employ outstanding local people and support a truly awesome local community.

I have had countless people come to me, many of them customers, to ask me how they can help me. I have had my moments here too, where it is a bit overwhelming. I am so used to having people ask me for help, be they employees asking for guidance with a task or community members asking for donations from my business, that I am not used to people asking me how they can help me.

I think I can speak for ALL small business owners in saying that this means more than we can express in words. Owning a small business can be very lonely at times. So many people look to us for the answers, yet we may not always know or have those answers. We are used to carrying the load, but not used to people asking us how they can help us carry it. To all of the members or our local community, THANK YOU, on behalf of all of the local business owners.

To answer the question that so many members of the community are asking, “How can we help our small local businesses?” I will say just one thing. Don’t forget about us. Right now, there is a lot of attention being paid to supporting the small businesses that are feeling the direct impact of this. We really appreciate all of your support!

As a business owner, what concerns me isn’t so much today or tomorrow, it is 2 months, 6 months, even 12 months from now after we settle into a new “normal” again. What will my business look like?  Will people remember to buy from me? Will I still have a business? That is the time that we will need the support of the community the most.

We are all being asked to minimize contact with each other as much as possible right now, rightfully so. I would like to ask/challenge all business owners and community members to use that time to think about what we can do to help each other. We all need to lean on each other to get through this, and we will get through this. Let’s come up with some creative ways to support our small local businesses. We are the ones that sponsor your church functions, your kid’s ball team, and numerous other great local causes.

As business owners, we are typically the LAST people to reach out and ask for a little help, but we will need it more than ever after this is behind us. Walking into a local shop and spending a few dollars, or calling a local service provider to do something that you might get done yourself someday might not seem like a big deal.

As a business owner, however, I assure you that every time my phone rings or a customer walks through my door, I gain a little reassurance that I will be able to carry on my mission of supporting local people and local causes.

I think I can safely say the same is true for every other small local business in Orleans County.

Be safe. Be well. Support local.

Thank you,

Adam Johnson

Treasurer, Orleans County Chamber of Commerce

(Johnson is the owner of 39 Problems in Albion.)

Editor:

In light of the extreme situation that has caused us all to change the way we handle our social interactions, we are asking the organizations listed below within Barre to impress upon your members the need to check in on anyone that they know of, on a regular basis, that is 60 years of age or older and anyone that is physically or mentally disabled regardless of age.

Please make sure that they are well provisioned with food, toiletries and medications. In most cases a phone call may be all that is needed but other cases a visit may need to occur. If visiting please follow the protocol as set forth by the Governor’s Office as well as the Orleans County Health Department.

Everyone knows of someone that may be in need. Just checking on them and a few kind words would boost the moral of someone. It may help the depression some may feel due to isolation. Just a little conversation via phone or through a door would help.

Kindness and a smile helps the soul.

We thank you for helping us get through this crises.

Sean Pogue

Barre Town Supervisor

(This letter was also sent to Barre Betterment Committee, Barre’s Rural Home Owner Committee, Know Your Facts, USA, Clear Skies Above Barre, West Barre Methodist Church, Barre Center Presbyterian Church, Ladies Auxiliary and Barre Fire District/Company.)

Editor:

As many of us are aware, the virus known as COVID-19, or coronavirus, has required us to make many changes in our day-to-day lives. From limiting social interactions to setting up curfews in the evenings, these changes are most definitely out of the ordinary. But, I have a feeling we will all be grateful such care is being taken to prevent the spread of the disease when we look back at this event.

However, during this public health crisis, it is becoming clear that some attempts to push forward policy that has not been properly debated or discussed are becoming commonplace. My stance is what it has always been: the government’s role is not to avoid transparency, and I will fight to make sure New Yorkers know what their government is doing.

We are not here to tie the bow on the governor’s bad policy in the middle of a crisis. It’s wrong and it’s dishonest. It’s disappointing to think that the governor would take advantage of the situation by trying to jam his political wish-list into what is supposed to be a policy-free budget. We need to pass a budget that responsibly keeps the state operating, one that allows the state to be financially stable, so we can return at a safer, later date to debate and determine the merits of any and all proposals that do not have a financial impact on everyday New Yorkers.

Additionally, we need to lead by example. While I agree that state legislators should be working day and night to support New Yorkers in this time of crisis, I am equally mindful of keeping legislators as healthy as possible. We are needed in our districts now more than ever, which leads me to believe that pushing back a voting deadline for the budget is more important than ever.

Assemblyman Steve Hawley

Batavia

(Hawley represents the 139th District, which consists of Genesee, Orleans and parts of Monroe County.)

Editor:

I entered the political world in part inspired by Ronald Reagan. “Government’s first duty is to protect the people, not run their lives.”

As we face this challenge let’s appreciate all who are working tirelessly, selflessly and exposed in order to protect us and not run our lives.

I’m glad I live in rural America. I’m glad I live in Orleans County. I enjoy the freedom to roam and appreciate America and yes this is serious and inconvenient. But we will come through with a deeper appreciation for humanity and the world around us.

I am confident in our local government and our team of dedicated professionals who protect us. Men and women behind the scenes like Paul Pettit at Department of Health, Dale Banker at Emergency Management, our veteran Sheriff Chris Bourke, our respected firefighters, Chairwoman Lynne Johnson and so many others too many to name. We are in the best of hands. We are safe thanks to our local government.

Let the government do their job and protect us. Listen to them. Be cooperative and help one another through this difficult time.

Joe Sidonio

Murray Town Supervisor

Editor:

As we all struggle with COVID-19, there is one segment of our communities that are feeling the effects even harder, that is our locally owned small businesses.

They need our help more now than ever during these uncharted times. Now is the time to show them our support. If you have a special occasion coming up this year, such as a birthday, anniversary, wedding, baby shower, etc, please consider purchasing gift cards and/or gift certificates now.

I am challenging everyone who is reading this or have been told about this letter to go out this week and purchase a $10 or $20 gift card or gift certificate at your favorite locally owned restaurant or store for yourself or someone else to use throughout the year.

Stay healthy,

Mike Sidari

Mayor

Village of Medina

Editor:

In the wake of large-scale developments throughout the country, I want to take the time to go through the facts as we have them available to us today, and I want to reassure my friends and neighbors that we are working diligently on the situation. Our goal is to work these new facts into our daily routines and alleviate the public health crisis.

One of the steps that the New York Legislature has taken is passed a $40 million emergency fund that can be used to increase the state’s ability to respond to COVID-19, otherwise known as the coronavirus. As the situation has continued to change and grow, and as public health officials have learned more, important steps have been taken and additional measures will come in the future as the situation continues to develop.

Additionally, President Trump has declared a national state of emergency relating to the pandemic; this not only means all federal initiatives are shifting toward the better health and welfare of citizens, but also that forgiveness programs are being implemented to ensure all citizens are protected, both economically and related to their healthcare.

We are currently in uncharted territory: international travel has been restricted, professional sports leagues have been suspended and Wall Street’s reactions all demonstrate the gravity of the situation. It can be overwhelming to see the constant news coverage paired with social media commentary, wild predictions and increased anxiety about what the future holds. While concern is a natural response, I am calling for citizens to remain calm and follow the guidelines set forth by public policy and health experts.

As of today, there are currently 729 positive cases in New York, with 329 of the confirmed cases found in New York City, New Rochelle and Long Island. As the state government continues to assess and manage the total impacts of this disease, it is critical that we all work together to manage the issue.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a wealth of information about what the virus is, how people can protect their health and what to do if you think you may be a victim of the disease. I urge everyone to review the CDC’s recommendations and do your part to help prevent the disease from spreading further. As part of its response and to ensure residents stay informed, New York state has established the New York State Coronavirus Hotline at: 1-888-364-3065.

Some of these ideas and recommendations might seem silly and obvious, but a healthy reminder is as important now as it has ever been. What we are learning as we study and combat this virus is that the most effective ways to beat it are the simplest. It is important that, as the situation continues to change rapidly, we keep up-to-date with accurate information, and be considerate of others.

As of right now, it is clear that our homes are not susceptible to the coronavirus. Only two positive infections have been confirmed in Monroe County. But, as I said before, the situation is likely to change, so it is imperative that citizens practice healthy habits of washing hands, covering coughs and sneezes and limiting prolonged close contact with others. Do this, and we will push through this incident together.

Assemblyman Steve Hawley

Batavia

(Hawley represents the 139th District, which consists of Genesee, Orleans and parts of Monroe County.)

Editor:

When Obama was President we faced a pandemic – H1N1, also called the “Swine Flu.” (We had H1N1, H3N2 and H5N1  a triple assortment of bird, swine and human flu viruses further combined with a Eurasian pig flu virus, leading to the term “swine flu”.)

With COVID, now the danger is like slowly drowning from the fluid, scars, and lesions in your own lungs. A person is carrier before symptoms hit. We have few tests available months despite being months into it. It’s a pandemic closing countries.

You have heard otherwise (you know from whom) but look it up. The fact is we are 2 to 3 months behind 2009 when President Obama declared a National Emergency with swine flu. If we had made an emergency declaration at that early stage now we would have been able to purchase WHO test kits from Germany immediately.  (The Congo of all places had theirs in early January.)

The fact is that back in ’09 pigs and poultry around the world were destroyed the moment the virus appeared. Hospital waivers like those announced Friday were issued immediately. Despite all that, there were 12,000 dead from it just here in the US! It was so sad.

Unlike ’09 this time we find store empty shelves as we need to fend for ourselves! It took a stock market free fall and the financial community to force the Government to listen to science. We lag the world in testing and only now are ramping up our response(s).

Hate and despise President Obama all you want, but face fact. He was elected to lead and he made the hard calls. It was a lesson in leadership that was under appreciated at the time.  Perhaps it was simply what we knew to expect from a President.

In light of all the turmoil I think it’s appropriate to take the time to think back and publicly thank him.

Conrad F. Cropsey

Albion