Editor:

Brett Sobieraski isn’t the better politician.

But he is the better cop.

And he deserves to win the Republican primary for Orleans County sheriff. More correctly, the good people of Orleans County deserve to have him win.

Because they deserve a Sheriff’s Office held to the highest standards and motivated by the highest values. And the deputies of that department deserve a sheriff who can lead and inspire them to their highest potential.

That sheriff is Brett Sobieraski.

He is a man who believes in leading from the front, and in leading from the heart. He’s first through the door, first across the finish line, and first to worry about the needs of his officers. He can out run, out fight and out shoot 99 percent of the men and women in law enforcement. And he does that not as a hard-ass, but as a compassionate and encouraging leader, who loves the people he serves, the people he leads, and the people he polices.

This is a request to Republicans in Orleans County that they vote for Brett Sobieraski for sheriff.

That may go against the political grain. Brett doesn’t have any friends or coworkers on the committees. He hasn’t cozied up to the unions. He hasn’t made any deals. He’s not a you-scratch-my-back-I’ll-scratch-yours kind of guy.

But he is a man of character who can be trusted. And he will discharge the duties of sheriff with honor, integrity, competence and professionalism. The people of Orleans County will be assured that their tax dollars are being used wisely, that their communities are being protected professionally, and that the deputies in their service are of the highest quality and integrity.

As the region has fought the battle against drugs, it turned to Brett Sobieraski for leadership. As the region strove to train new officers to the highest professional standards, it turned to Brett Sobieraski for leadership. And when, years on end, a major metropolitan SWAT team needed rock-solid command, it turned to Brett Sobieraski for leadership.

If your family was in danger, you would want a cop like Brett Sobieraski to answer the call. If your teenager was troubled and straying, you would want a man like Brett Sobieraski to sit and talk to him. If your sheriff’s department was operating below its potential, you would Brett Sobieraski to take its helm.

What I know of Brett Sobieraski I have read in the faces and stories of the officers he has led, trained and served with for the last 20 years. They love him. They admire him. They strive to be like him. He is a legendary friend, a trusted leader, and an inspiration to all. He is not just a good guy, a pal, he is a law-enforcement leader who raises everyone’s performance by walking in the room.

Bringing his personality and ability to the Orleans County sheriff’s office will electrify the deputies and enhance law enforcement across the entire county. He fights crime all day, every day, and never lets up in the fight to protect people, track down criminals and care for victims.

Much is made of the fact that Brett Sobieraski is an endurance athlete. He swam across Lake Ontario, he ran 175 miles straight on the Erie Canal, he ran 135 miles from the bottom of Death Valley to the top of Mount Whitney in the middle of summer – and beat two-thirds of the elite athletes he was competing against.

That’s pretty good for a middle-aged man.

And it’s a pretty good insight into who that middle-aged man is.

Brett Sobieraski is someone who never quits. No matter what. He pushes on. He gets through. At no matter what toll to himself.

And he does it for the benefit of others. Not a single one of his various adventures has ever been for personal glory or benefit – they have all been to inspire and raise money for others.

And all along the way, he teaches.

A hundred and twenty-five miles into his Special Olympics run along the Erie Canal, he was joined by a group of young people taking a law-enforcement class. They were awe struck and he was engaging, leading them beside him for several miles, asking about their goals and advising on how to reach them, though he had himself at that point been running non-stop for almost a day and a half. On another run, halfway to a hundred miles to raise money for the Veterans Outreach Center, three hours before dawn in a driving snow storm, he spoke to my son, giving him encouragement and acceptance, empowering him to run along at his side.

That same spirit will be part of every interaction between Sheriff Brett Sobieraski and the noble men and women who wear the uniform of the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office. He will always be leading, teaching and loving.

He will likewise bring the same spirit of servant leadership to the people, institutions and law-enforcement agencies of Orleans County. This sheriff will be who he’s supposed to be – the county’s protector.

And you can bank on that.

Brett Sobieraski will not let you down.

Brett Sobieraski doesn’t let anybody down.

And that’s why I am asking Republicans to support him in the primary, and everyone to support him on Election Day.

Because he is not the better politician.

He is the better man.

And he is the man Orleans County needs and deserves.

Bob Lonsberry

Mount Morris

(Lonsberry is a talk show host and columnist for WHAM 1180 in Rochester.)

Editor:

It is now been 10 years since the Republicans have promised to replace the Affordable Care Act. To date, they have no plans other than to take away your health care. Where is the leadership? Republicans have talked about block grants but have never seriously proposed any plans. What Republicans have proposed is to put limits on pre-existing conditions and to allow younger, healthier people to forgo health insurance which will drive up cost of health insurance for those in need of insurance.

Under Mr. Trump’s and Republican leadership, drug prices are raising at rates far above the cost of living. Republicans have failed to take the issue of health care seriously. They have failed to see the real pain of the constituents they serve.

William Fine

Brockport

Editor:

This letter is to highlight a person who exemplifies determination and leadership. I have personally witnessed Brett Sobieraski dedicate countless volunteer hours in support of Special Olympics New York athletes.

Brett has always gone above and beyond to help Special Olympics New York reach its mission in providing athletes with year-round training at no cost to them.

Most notably, Brett Sobieraski completed a 50-hour continuous run to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Special Olympics. His 50 for 50 mission raised enough funds to sponsor 25 Special Olympics athletes to participate in sports for an entire year. His determination was on full display as he ran from Buffalo to Syracuse without pausing for sleep. In fact, Brett ran his entire birthday. He never lost sight of his goal – to support Special Olympics athletes.

Brett Sobieraski has also had a vital role in other fundraisers to benefit his friends at Special Olympics New York. He activity participates in the Rochester Polar Plunge, the Law Enforcement Torch Run and Cops on Top at Dunkin’. Brett always leads a team of law enforcement members that volunteer their time during these events.

I am personally inspired by all that Brett takes on. There is no doubt that he is an outstanding and effective leader. I am positive he will do right by members of the community and that all will find a sense of trust and pride with him as their leader.

Luke Folts

Director of Program – Unified Sports

Special Olympics New York

Pittsford

Editor:

To the residents of Ridgeway, I would ask for a few moments of your time to tell you about my friend, Brian Napoli. I was fortunate enough to work for the Town of Ridgeway for a few years and my observations may help you with your decision in the upcoming Republican primaryon (June 25 and the general election in November.

Brian Napoli is one of the hardest working people I have ever met. Smart? Ethical? Sure, but more importantly, hard working. He can take a complex problem, break that problem down to its component factors, analyze and mitigate those factors and come up with viable solutions to that problem.

I watched him do that again and again. Town budgets, contract negotiations, personnel matters or the concerns of a frustrated taxpayer, he never failed to present imaginative solutions to the rest of us on the Town Board. He can methodically and pragmatically work through problems, always with the Ridgeway taxpayer in mind.

Brian Napoli’s dedication to the town manifests itself in accessibility. His regular business hours at town hall and by cell phone in off hours, attendance at all luncheons, dinners, conferences, county meetings, private business meetings, community meetings, church gatherings, any venue which directly or indirectly affects town business in any way, is legendary. I still remember when Brian Napoli and I put our best face forward to be pelted with tomatoes to assist in a community fund raising project.

Brian Napoli is also a networking marvel. If the town needs guidance or assistance from some other governmental agency or jurisdiction or community organization, they take Brian’s phone calls and react. In my experience, those reactions were always favorable to the Town of Ridgeway.

The highest form of praise I know comes from street vernacular and it’s “he’s a standup guy.” Brian Napoli is a standup guy.

He does, of course, have his flaws. He is terrible at self-promotion. His many accomplishments as town supervisor have to be cataloged by others. Where the financial health of the Town of Ridgeway is concerned, he is inflexible. If it does not benefit the town, or at least be cost neutral, it will not happen. Finally, having worked with Brian Napoli, he expects everyone else to work as hard as he does. That can be difficult.

Please do not just take my word that Brian Napoli is a hardworking and effective town supervisor who absolutely deserves re-election, talk to anyone who knows him. Town, village or county leaders, planning board members, church leaders or the people with whom you might share a cup of coffee or perhaps a beer. Don’t be surprised if you hear “Brian Napoli? Yeah he’s a standup guy…”

Paul J. Blajszczak

Ridgeway

Editor:

Once again, we have a hotly contested sheriff’s race, with the Republican primary only days away. Before you go to vote, understand what the office of sheriff entails.

According to the NYS Sheriff’s Association (and NY state requirements), to hold the office of Sheriff or Undersheriff, a person must have at least 60 credit hours from an accredited college or university or have five years experience in leadership and management; and five years experience in one of the following: law enforcement, public safety, corrections, court security, civil process, or like experience in the criminal justice, legal field or military command.

We have been brainwashed into thinking that the sheriff has to please the legislature, the country executive, the DA, or other political figures. As Andy of Mayberry often said, “We have to keep the mayor happy.” We have also been taught that the sheriff is the top law-enforcer, making him no more than a Super Cop. If this was the case, the county would be hiring the sheriff, just as it hires other police officers.

But the office of sheriff is so much more than enforcing laws. This position goes back centuries, when the sheriff worked for the king. With the Magna Carta, his position was changed to working for the people. When our country was established, that position was incorporated into our governmental structure. The sheriff enforces the nation’s laws—providing they do not go against the Constitution—protects the lives and property of its people, and safeguards the health and morals of the community.

But most importantly, the sheriff works for the people. That means he does not answer to the legislature, the county executive, or any other person in power. That means that the legislature and county executive have no say in the sheriff’s business. That means that the sheriff protects his people’s Constitutional rights, even against the “king’s” men.

If state or federal agencies try to act against the people in the county, they must first go through the sheriff, who will wisely decide if their actions are justifiable or if they are infringing on the rights of the people.

Therefore, if you cannot depend on your candidate to defend your rights, or if he is beholden to political leaders, or focused solely on law enforcement rather than combining it with community enhancement and cooperation, then he does not understand that the position of sheriff is a unique position unlike any other in law enforcement. And he will not be a Constitutional Protective Sheriff.

Judith Larkin

Ridgeway

Editor:

To the my fellow residents of Holley, we have an election for Village Trustees this Tuesday, June 18. I am writing this letter in support of Jim DeFilipps and Rochelle Moroz. Jim has been a Trustee for the past 3 years and Rochelle for 2 years. Over the past few years residents have seen and heard about much activity and progress in the Village including the following:

Planning efforts such as the new Comprehensive Plan, and “Revitalize Holley” Program which is currently in progress

Construction projects such as Holley Gardens (Holley High School renovation), water and sidewalk infrastructure improvement projects, milling and resurfacing of Route 31 and 237, and Diaz property cleanup efforts.

Community improvements such as park Improvements and the Holley Community Garden which is now in its very successful second year.

Addressing Vacant Properties such as 89 Public Square which has been listed on Landmark Society’s “Five to Revive” and recently obtained by our Village of Holley LDC, and of course the Diaz homes being returned to the tax rolls with only 2 still under construction.

Equipment upgrades such as our new Kubota track machine which will be used in the park and as our new sidewalk snow plow – obtained through SAM Grant and assistance from Senator Ortt valued at $51,000.

These are a sampling of projects and efforts that have been underway and ongoing within your Village and there is much more to do! In addition to our designated responsibilities, we as a board, have taken on all these projects in an effort to put Holley in the best position possible for success, now and into the future.

This is a very aggressive approach, probably more than what people have seen in many years. None of this could be possible without the hard work of our Village staff and just as importantly the support of our Village Board.

The board, which I consider a management team, has worked solidly together, and with our staff, to keep these projects on track. There is a lot more involved than a once a month meeting. Every expense and every decision is carefully considered and a lot of time is dedicated to that.

Both of these trustees and current candidates for re-election are hardworking and dedicated to serving the Village and have been an integral part of the success of these efforts. I support them and their re-election 100 percent and respectfully ask you for your support and most importantly your votes for Jim DeFilipps and Rochelle Moroz on Tuesday, June 18.

Respectfully,

Mayor Brian Sorochty

Holley

Editor:

We are quickly approaching another election cycle and the Town of Murray more than ever needs new leadership and someone who can right this sinking ship.

I moved to Murray about 6 years ago hoping and thinking that getting out of Monroe County would lessen the financial burden on my family, and at first I was right. However, the last few years I have been hammered with rising taxes to the tune of a 25 percent increase in my property tax bills. That’s stifling for a middle class family to try to keep up with and I am sure I am not alone.

We as residents shouldn’t be complacent and accept rising taxes and fiscal irresponsibility year after year. We should expect the leaders and representatives of our town to fight for us and find ways to keep families thriving not just surviving in our town. Which is why we need change and we need it now.

The person I believe who can bring us back on track to a thriving town is Joe Sidonio. Joe is running for supervisor of Murray and he has my wholehearted support. Joe is an established business man who has the fiscal knowledge and fortitude to strengthen the Murray economy, not laden it with higher taxes and more unnecessary laws regulating its residents.

I’ve known Joe for about 5 years, and in those 5 years I’ve learned that he loves his family and he loves his town and he fights for and wants what is best for both. Joe is running for supervisor not for his own personal gains. He is running because he truly cares for the town and the people living in it.

His incredible work ethic, integrity, and passion are exactly what this town needs to get back on track. Let’s elect someone who will fight to make our town a better place to live and one that we can proudly raise our families in.

Adam Moore

Holley

Editor:

I write this in regard to the letter sent in to the Orleans Hub by Bob Harker or Clarendon. He states that Sgt. Sobieraski had dealt with issues in urban areas and not rural areas. Well now Mr. Harker, exactly how far from Orleans County are the urban areas?

I have worked at the Monroe County Jail for the last 20 years, and I can safely say that crime does not stop at the county line. City and suburban crime does come to Orleans County. No longer can the residents of Orleans County say, “not here in my quiet neighborhood.”

People have got to get their heads out of the sand and realize that society and the crimes they commit have changed over the years.

Just because Sgt. Sobieraski has been employed for 27 years in the city, does not mean he is unaware of the problems we have in Orleans County. Sgt. Sobieraski will be a pro-active sheriff, not a reactive one.

Change can be hard, change can be good and in this election, change is what is needed.

P.S. Criminals don’t read or use road maps.

Thank you,

Carol A. Tibbits

Albion

Editor:

Brett Sobieraski’s service to our country and career accomplishments are commendable. That said, it was surprising to see someone with such an impressive background spending most of his campaign demagoguing.

In reference to an article about a drug bust on the Hub, Brett stated there was “one agency noticeably absent in this criminal investigation.” Kudos to him for choosing an article that highlights drugs from Niagara County making their way to Orleans County. Perhaps his intent was to draw away attention from the fact that the majority of opioids found in Orleans County are being trafficked from Monroe County.

There are at least four cases involving a total of eight individuals from Rochester directly responsible for overdoses in Orleans County. Just one of those individuals was supplying more than 30 residents. If we are to point out an “agency noticeably absent,” I think it is equally important to point out an agency noticeably failing to contain a drug trafficking problem within Monroe County.

As Brett’s website brettforsheriff.com states, he “oversees GRANET.” An organization that according to a D&C article, was at its creation “about an 18-person team comprised of representatives from all 11 police departments in Monroe County.” With all of those resources, how has the opioid crisis spiked so much? Brett says that the drugs are “not a deputy problem,” but a “leadership problem.”

Under his leadership in 2018, Monroe County saw 85 opioid overdoses, of which 16 were fatal, in the month of February alone! Orleans County had 69 overdoses, 12 of which were fatal, throughout all of 2018. Need I mention again that one, just one, Monroe County resident was providing at least 30 members of Orleans County with opioids?

How is it he claims to have a plan to deal with the opioid issues in Orleans County, when he cannot contain it within Monroe? Speaking of containment, how often has anyone heard of cases where an Orleans County resident has been distributing fentanyl to Monroe County?

His campaign website says he will “build” “walls” on the major corridors into our county, but if he wasn’t able to achieve that with a joint effort between 11 departments, he will be completely ineffective with the substantially less resources available as Orleans County Sheriff. Brett is correct with his assertation of the opioid crisis being a leadership problem, but the problem isn’t the leadership in Orleans County.

In addition to slandering the Sheriff’s Department and his opponent, he made it a point to voice his support for the Orleans County Major Felonies Crime Task Force. It is almost as if he is attempting to drive a wedge between our local law enforcement agencies. It seems to echo the last time he was involved in an election for Orleans County Sheriff. As he preaches of unity and cooperation, it has been disappointing to see him sowing seeds of discord within agencies he plans on overseeing. The only people who pay the price when he uses his platform to deliberately undermine the effectiveness of Orleans County law enforcement agencies, are the residents of the county.

Respectfully,

Ace A. Strickland

Ridgeway

Editor:

My name is Scott Peters and I am the Deputy Chief for the Rochester Police Department. I am writing this letter of support for Brett Sobieraski in his run for Orleans County Sheriff.

I have known Brett for almost 27 years and I have never met a harder working man. I have had the pleasure of working side-by-side with Brett as well as being his direct supervisor. For several years, I was the Lieutenant in charge of the Greater Rochester Area Narcotics Enforcement Team or GRANET. Brett was the Sergeant in charge of one of my teams. There were many occasions where we assisted the Orleans County Drug Task Force when their investigations crossed into Monroe County. Brett was always my lead for these investigations due to his familiarity with the people involved as well as the locations. Every single one of those investigations led to a safe and successful conclusion due to the leadership of Brett and his ability to work with the Orleans County personnel.

During my time as the Department’s SWAT Commander, Brett was one of my team leaders as well. I could not have asked for a better Sergeant to lead our operations. Brett was a natural leader and always insisted his teammates worked relentlessly and professionally. He is one of the main reasons we have one of the best SWAT teams in the Country!

Brett’s desire to help others is unmatched. Every time he challenges himself to complete another super-human endeavor, it is not just for him. Every event was done to raise money for a needy individual, a charitable organization or for individuals who deserve extra help. Along with physically assisting him during these events, I have readily donated money to his causes because the donations were going to such good causes. I have no doubt this will continue in whatever Brett does in his life.

Please accept my letter of support. Brett will make an exemplary Sheriff for Orleans County. He will bring relentless energy to the office and will insist on having the most professional employees the County of Orleans deserves.

Deputy Chief Scott Peters

Rochester Police Department

Editor:

I am writing this in response to all unwarranted criticism of our public officials in the Town of Barre. I attended the workshop meeting that Kerri Richardson wrote about in her recent letter to the editor and it was a full house.

Yes, it is true that questions were not allowed during the workshop, but attendees were informed that questions could be written on provided 3 x 5 cards, and they would be answered at the next meeting. As for the timing of the meeting, per law they can hold them whenever they choose, as long as proper notice is given, which it was. Some of the residents who accuse the Town Board of being out of compliance, don’t even have their own houses in order.

However, this letter is not about the meeting, it’s about the people. I believe one of the best attributes in the town of Barre is the people. My neighbors are some of my best friends. I cannot count the number of times they are there to lend a helping hand. Whether it’s helping me fix my lawn mower, checking in on my parents, stopping to help me catch the horses that escaped, or inviting my family over for dinner. The list could go on and on but one thing is for sure, it’s these people who make the community what it is, not the rural landscape (which by the way is also provided by them).

That’s what is so disheartening about the controversy over the wind turbine project. Farmers, leaseholders, elected officials, good neighbors have been personally attacked for pursuing a project that has been allowed in Barre since 2008, in accordance with the Town’s Comprehensive Plan. These people have been called corrupt, ignorant, evil etc. for considering Green Power.

At the workshop meeting there was a flier saying the town officials must go because they are corrupt. These elected officials did not pursue the wind project nor alter the zoning to accommodate it. They are simply doing their duties as elected officials to research and consider what’s best for the entire community. If they did not review the wind project proposal they would not be doing their jobs.

I also heard it shouldn’t be about the money. I am not sure how anyone can say this. The farmers are the ones who provide the rural environment and yet pay the most property taxes.  When someone approaches them with the opportunity to make additional income regardless of Mother Nature, how can they not consider it? Residents in Barre often criticize the taxes.  How can you form a decision before you know what the financial impact is to each and every one of you?

I also heard that it’s not their right to put up wind turbines and change the scenery. Well I find that argument to be a slippery slope. Once we start dictating what they can and can’t do with their land, we are no longer a right to farm community. I know several of the opposition are gun owners and the minute the topic of assault weapons regulation comes up, they claim it’s their second amendment right. How is this different?

One topic that does bother me is the health concerns. I truly do not want to see anyone have ill effects because of a wind project. I understand the World Health Organization has valid concerns but I also realize that something has to be done to reduce our carbon footprint.  According to scientists, if our CO2 levels continue to rise, we will have major problems that will affect the whole world. Will there be better options for Green Power in the future? Probably, but I have no doubt they will have opposition as well. No proposed solution will satisfy everyone, but if we continue to resist any changes and advancements how will we leave the world better than we found it? What kind of world will we be leaving our future generations?

There are several candidates running for office this year in Barre. My hope is that whoever is elected will look out for what’s best for the whole community like our current members do, rather than being motivated by self interest. The challenge for the opposition would be to provide a solution that helps the farmers and the community and not just tell us the problems with the current proposal.

Regardless of the outcome, the damage has been done to our best asset, the people. Everyone deserves respect no matter what side of the debate they are on. It’s my belief that the negative culture that is being perpetuated will have a greater detrimental effect on property values than any proposed Green Power Project.

Why would people choose to live in a community where neighbors don’t support one another? Also, for the record, I support the farmers, many of whom supported my father when he was a veterinarian, regardless of what they want to do with their land. My father also has an opportunity for a wind turbine. As he would tell you, it’s not going to impact his lifestyle but it may help one of his grandchildren keep the family homestead. Either way, he still treats all people fairly and with respect!

Sincerely,

Stephen Harling

Barre

Editor:

In regards to the upcoming election for our next worthy Orleans County Sheriff, I am compelled to speak on behalf of Mr. Brett Sobieraski. I feel that it is my responsibility as a retired Air Force Security Forces Specialist whose last duty was the NCOIC of Anti-Terrorism and Force Protection for European Command. I have observed and collaborated with some of the most elite leaders across the world and acknowledge that Brett encompasses the traits that it takes to be a true leader.

One of the most vital components I have learned in being a successful leader is clear and concise communication. Brett is committed to speaking to those who he is ready to dedicate his time to as our next Sheriff. Brett has been working diligently to establish a rapport with our community in how he will expedite his vision as our next Orleans County Sheriff  through social media, radio talks, home visits and phone calls.

Brett is adamant about sharing his plans for the future as our next Orleans County Sheriff. His passion is apparent for he flawlessly communicates his plan of action. He is a natural. He genuinely wants to help us.

I know Brett will have no problem facing the music when the job gets tough. This is the type of position one must earn. Brett’s diverse background as starting out as a police officer in Lockport and is now the Law Enforcement Supervisor and is a team leader on the SWAT Team in the Greater Rochester area proves that he is more than qualified for the job.

Brett holds strong beliefs in unification. That is a concept all military personnel hold dear to. To simply say, teamwork makes the dream work. Brett plans to unify and train with all of our local law enforcement agencies—not only will this strengthen our bond, we will see immense improvements in our communities’ safety which is Brett’s number one priority.

In closing, Brett is the leader we can trust and lean on for our Orleans County Sheriff.

Sincerely,

Joseph Marvin

Gaines

Editor:

Last weekend, the Village of Holley held its annual JuneFest Day. We had a beautiful day and many residents and visitors were able to come to our Village and spend the day enjoying our parade, craft and food vendors, wine tasting, an expanded kid zone, live music and entertainment, and of course finishing the night with our fireworks display. Overall it was a wonderful day to spend with friends and family!

None of this would have been possible without the hard work and dedication of our Community Events Committee, who volunteered their time and planned this event for months. I also want thank our Village DPW and Water/Electric staff who worked hard to get the park in shape and ready after a very wet spring.

I would like to thank all those that volunteered during the day, taking time away from their families and spending it serving this great event and our community. I also want to thank all of our local businesses who donated so generously to Junefest and sponsored the different events…it is because of your generosity that this event is constantly expanding and we are able to provide more and more fun events for families to enjoy.

Without everyone’s hard work and dedication to this wonderful community event none of this would be possible, your efforts are more appreciated than I can say in this letter! It is days and events like this that should remind us of what is great about living in a small community.

Lastly, and most importantly, thank you to everyone who came to visit us. We hope you enjoyed your day at JuneFest in the Village of Holley and we look forward to seeing you next year!

Brian Sorochty

Holley mayor

Editor:

I write to show my undying support for Chase Tkach as our next Orleans County legislator for an At-Large position. Chase would be a perfect fit for legislator.

She is a registered and endorsed Libertarian, who has strong values and a positive go-get-’em attitude. Experiences in her life bring bright new ideas to the table. She has worked at many jobs locally and she knows the struggle that we all face. She knows the need for continued leadership as well as different approaches and ideas to all aspects of local government.

Chase believes elected officials should listen to the community and wants to implement this in a new form. Chase has been quoted many times saying “…I see so much beautiful potential for this county that remains untapped.”

Some of the topics that Chase feels strongly about are as follows: Pro-Legalization of Marijuana, Pro-Second Amendment rights, Anti-Monopolized wind and solar farms, Pro-Lowering of taxes, and Anti-Spending of funds better used for other resources.

Most in this county will say they want change. Well change isn’t happening. Mr. Allport has been in this seat for far too long without listening to the people he represents. It’s time that changes.

I think Chase is one candidate all parties can find good in and get behind in the November election.

Thank you.

Ken Capurso

Town of Gaines

Editor:

In a few short weeks, the people of Orleans County will be selecting their next sheriff. Choosing the right person to protect a community is probably one of the most important decisions any citizen will make.

The person you choose as your next sheriff will be faced with a number of significant challenges that will require proven skills in leadership, community investment, team building, and a significant background in all facets of law enforcement. Faced with the difficult decision on who to support in the next election, I would like to offer the citizens of Orleans County a unique perspective on one of the candidates in the running to be your next sheriff – Brett Sobieraski.

I have known Brett his whole life. I worked closely with Brett’s dad, Detective John Sobieraski at the Lockport Police Department. John would bring Brett to the station frequently to hang around with the cops. Even at an early age, Brett had the intelligence, focus and the personality to be successful in any profession.

When he was hired by the LPD years later I was one of his instructors at the police academy and was later his supervisor. Throughout his career in the LPD, I found Brett to be an outstanding police officer who truly enjoyed the job. He was a quick learner, blessed with an enthusiasm and upbeat personality that infected everyone who worked with him – he’s still like that today.

Early in his career the city suffered a fiscal crisis. Brett and other officers were faced with possible layoffs. Due to his impressive track record with the LPD, Brett was immediately hired by the Rochester Police Department and began a long and successful career with RPD. He was quickly promoted to sergeant and later placed in command of a countywide Narcotics Enforcement team.

In regional law enforcement, Brett has an outstanding reputation. He is well-known for his passion for the job as well as his investigative and leadership skills.

Brett Sobieraski has spent 31 years working cases in suburban, rural and urban communities across Western New York. As the supervising sergeant of a multi-agency task force, SWAT team leader and law enforcement instructor his career experience has not been limited to one locale.

Brett chose to live and raise his family in Kendall and Orleans County 27 years ago. In that time, he has been active in the community and was recognized for his efforts, being chosen in 2018 as an Orleans County “Outstanding Citizen.”

I can assure you that if you choose to elect Brett Sobieraski as Orleans County Sheriff, he will bring everything that he’s got to the job every day. I can recommend Brett to you without reservation and urge you to vote for him in the upcoming election.

Respectfully,

Chief (Ret.) Larry Eggert

Lockport Police Department