Editor:

Of particular importance to every resident of Orleans County is the race for County Court Judge. Sanford “Sandy” Church, a lifelong resident of Albion and a fifth-generation attorney, is the Republican endorsed candidate seeking the ten year term, while Tonia Ettinger, an attorney from Ontario County, will appear on the ballot on the Democratic and Conservative lines.

Retired County Court Judge Jim Punch set the judicial bar high during his 27 years of service on the bench. As the longest serving judge in the history of this County, he presided over thousands of cases during his tenure, displaying a broad knowledge of substantive and procedural law while rendering timely, well reasoned and often gut wrenching decisions.

Like some of his contemporaries in other rural counties across New York, Jim presided over four courts – County, Family, Supreme and Surrogates – and juggled those responsibilities efficiently and effectively. To say that he will be a hard act to follow would be a gross understatement.

In a recent letter to the editor, the writer suggests that Ms. Ettinger “will bring a much-needed change from the establishment of almost three decades.” That is exactly what this County doesn’t need, and the primary reason why the Orleans County Bar Association as a whole, and sixteen of my colleagues, with over 400 years of collective experience as practicing attorneys, have joined me in endorsing Sandy Church for Orleans County Judge. Simply put, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

There is no question that Sandy is the right person for the job. Like Judge Punch, he is a life-long resident of Orleans County. Born and raised in Albion, Sandy attended Wake Forest University, where he was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa, and Duke Law School, a top ten institution where he was a member of Law Review.

With these impressive academic credentials, Sandy could have written his own ticket with a big city law firm, but it was always his intention to return to his roots. True to his word, Sandy came back to Albion, where he continues to run the Church & Church law office and is a pillar of the community. To my knowledge, Ms. Ettinger has never had an office in Orleans County and rarely appears in court here. If her local connection is so strong, why does she live two counties away, why isn’t she a member of the Orleans County Bar Association, and why did she run for judge in Monroe County last fall?

Because the majority of the cases that our County Judge presides over are criminal and Family Court matters, experience in those areas of the law is essential. The courtroom is no place for on the job training. As a former Orleans County Assistant District Attorney, Orleans County Public Defender for the past 20 years and a Family Court practitioner for 30 years, including 17 years of service as guardian for the child, Sandy has been a fixture in the Courthouse, handling thousands of cases ranging from routine to complex.

If one were to poll the attorneys who have thrown their support behind Sandy, I daresay that every one of them would respond that there is no better qualified candidate for Orleans County Judge. With all due respect to Ms. Ettinger, there is simply no way that she has acquired the broad base of knowledge and experience in her 13 years of practice that Sandy has accumulated in his 32 years of service. It is no coincidence that most attorneys who ascend to judicial positions in courts of record are well seasoned, with years of experience in myriad areas of the law under their belts.

The residents of Orleans County, the individuals appearing in court as defendants, victims, litigants, witnesses and jurors, and the attorneys who make their living practicing law in Orleans County, deserve to have a County Judge with the knowledge, experience and temperament that the position demands.

While there will be two names on the ballot next week,  there is only one viable choice for County Court Judge – Sandy Church. He has earned, and is deserving of, your vote.

Jeffrey R. Martin

Holley

Editor:

As November 7th, Election Day, draws near, I wanted to share a few items with your readers as they make their final decisions on who to support when they exercise their right to vote.

I’ve introduced myself in person, through ads, and in letters to the people of Gaines. I’ve had the chance to talk to, and more importantly listen to, their concerns and how they see how town moving into the future. Listening to people, combined with not being heard by some town officials myself, is what ultimately convinced me to get actively involved in the race for Supervisor. I have openly laughed at some of the vicious personal attacks thrown my way by people who have never met me, or have seen me but never bothered to utter a single word to me. These actions demonstrate the points I’ve made during my campaign.

The truth is that an overwhelming majority of Gaines Republicans agreed with me and my message during the primary in September, and selected me as their candidate. The Gaines Democrats reviewed my credentials and listened to my message. Their town caucus unanimously chose me as their candidate for Supervisor. The leaders of the Independence Party made that choice as well. These endorsements were earned by having a strong background, a clear message, open ears and mind, and hard work. The same level of hard work and determination it took to win the primary and the endorsement of other parties will be used as Gaines Town Supervisor.

My goal is to make Gaines a better place by making our town government extremely open and treating others with respect. Our meetings will be more informative. Detailed information, not just meeting minutes, will be easy to get. We’ll do a better job communicating and use many ways to get that job done. We’ll be fiscally prudent and work toward being as efficient as possible by being more open to sharing services, equipment, and personnel. We’ll be collaborative at all levels of government to help us get great things done.

I have no allegiances to anyone but the residents of Gaines. I won’t stand for anything but honest, open government and civil, respectful debate on topics of importance. Sometimes, running a small town like ours can be challenging as difficulties are presented to us, but we must remember we are all neighbors, and that our town officials work for us, not for themselves or a small group of supporters.

With that, I’d like to ask all your Gaines readers to give me their support when they go to the polls on November 7th. We can make Gaines better, and we will!

Sincerely,

Joseph Grube

Candidate – Town of Gaines Supervisor

Editor:

I am writing today to discuss shared services among the county, towns and villages. I have been Supervisor of Gaines for 6 years and involved in government for more than 10 years.

One of the first things I learned even before I took office was what a great group of folks we have in this county, watching and hearing about their working together. When I was elected the first time in 2012, I sought out advice and mentoring from other Supervisors throughout the county. There were many lunches, pots of coffee, phone calls and meetings.

I am forever grateful at the willingness of each and every person I sought to help, teach and advise me as I learned just what it meant to be a town Supervisor. We started meeting every few months and really gained a great rapport of respect and trust.  Don’t think for a moment we didn’t have different opinions but we could respectfully agree or disagree without any hard feelings. We had and have the best interest of our communities at heart. I don’t doubt for a moment if any county, town or village had an emergency every community would be there to assist in any way they could.

The question of shared services has come into play as something our town doesn’t practice and a movement towards that policy should be implemented. Below is a list of the services the Town of Gaines currently shares:

• Highway personnel and equipment – paving, water line breaks, repairs etc.

• Codes enforcement officer – annual contract with the Town of Albion

• Tax Assessor– contract with County Real Property who also serves Town of Albion

• Justice –on call for arraignments

• County – Snow Plowing

As you review this list, you can see we share a very significant amount of services with other communities. The purpose is obvious, to save money and streamline government services to make it more cost effective for all.

The Town of Gaines, along with every government entity share services with the county, town and villages. I believe the constant efforts of all involved to carry on the continued cooperation in our county should be applauded and used as an example of working together for the greater good.

Respectfully submitted,

Carol Culhane

Gaines Town Supervisor

Photo by Tom Rivers: Two cyclists from Pennsylvania are stopped today in Albion on the towpath, just west of Main Street, while a crew from Utica takes down trees.

Editor:

Tearing down trees along the towpath of the Erie Canal is an absolute disgrace and should have been the last option, not the first option because it’s the cheapest!

We live right on the canal and the beauty of the trees across from our house is now gone. Devastated! Local and NYS government should be ashamed of themselves acting on a threat of water way break from 1912-1921 in Bushnell’s Basin.

We have come a long way in technological advancement since then, and one would think they would go with another course of action.

Sincerely,

Stephanie Thurston

Albion

Editor:

I am submitting this letter for my support and endorsement of Sanford Church for County Judge. The short answer is very simple to this writer and that is Sandy’s years of experience.

A candidate for Orleans County Court runs the following Courts: (1) County Court where felony cases are heard and a small amount of civil cases (2) Family Court, which includes new legislation of raise the age for various criminal cases, juvenile delinquency cases, and child protection cases (3) Supreme Court which includes all matrimonial matters and a vast majority of civil litigation (4) Surrogate’s Court and then several boutique courts that all require experience.

I was admitted to practice in 2005, and since this time regularly worked with Sandy on a wide variety of cases. We have been adversaries many times over the years and there’s been many times when we have had common positions. This includes complex criminal cases, matrimonial matters, and countless Family Court cases. In my early years as an attorney, I would (and still often times do) watch Sandy to see how he handles difficult situations and complicated legal questions. Nothing ever seems to rattle Sandy and again I attribute to this to his years of experience in our local legal system.

As Judge, I am expecting Sandy to continue the same approach. When a complicated case comes before him, I would expect the Court to guide counsel in how to resolve matters in a fair and amicable manner.

Often times, cases must proceed to trial and I have complete confidence that Sandy will do a masterful job as judge again based on his years of experience. I always envision a judge to an umpire in baseball and that they have to call balls and strikes, along with knowing the ground rules for each respective park, along with knowing the rule book.

Any judge must call balls and strikes as they must know the law of evidence along with how evidence flows within trials. I’ve tried my fair share of cases with Mr. Church over the years and I have complete confidence that he knows the laws of both criminal and civil evidence.

The ground rules of a case would be the substantive laws underlying procedure. Civil, Criminal, and Surrogate’s Courts all have their own procedure. Procedure is not something that you learn on the fly, it is something you learn by actively practicing in those respective areas of law. Finally, the rule book, would be a working command and expertise of the underlying law such as the Penal Law, Domestic Relations Law, or Family Court Law. I am without a doubt that Sandy is indeed an expert in the areas of law required to be County Judge.

As stated above, experience is the most important factor and on election day, I am asking you to please vote for experience in Sanford A. Church for Orleans Judge.

Thank you.

Brian Degnan

Batavia

Editor:

(Full disclosure:  I am a property owner and taxpayer in the Town of Ridgeway and my legal residence since 2016 is in Fredonia.)

After following numerous articles relative to the upcoming election, I wish to offer a bit of history relative to the Town of Ridgeway Deputy Clerk’s position. When this appointment was made six years ago, I questioned the process by which the selection was made. I asked the Town of Ridgeway Supervisor where the position had been advertized, if it had been posted internally, were there any number of candidates, was there an open interview process and if any of this was not done, then why not.

Much to my dismay, these questions were never answered. I was instead mailed a document (legal statute) stating that the selection for this position was an appointment decision. Actually, nothing more than a “friends and family” process with strong political overtones. It is my supposition that powers higher up “suggested” a candidate and it was a “done deal.” In essence, the current deputy clerk was given the job. This, too, should not mean an individual ascends to the clerk’s position simply by proximity.

Now review the current election choices. A highly ethical, hard working young woman, Tara Albone-White, is seeking the Town of Ridgeway Clerk’s office. She has gone door to door, handed out her literature, listened to the citizens of Ridgeway and has the leadership qualities which will serve both citizens and Ridgeway employees with respect and dignity.

Serving the public requires a selfless temperament, not self serving. Honesty and the highest ethical standards must be the hallmark of an elected official. Tara will bring this to the clerk’s office. She has worked hard, presented the voters with an excellent choice and doesn’t expect to be given anything.

I have no doubts that she will continue to work hard, providing Ridgeway with the finest leadership we should all expect.

Maureen Blackburn

Fredonia, Medina

Editor:

The point of Chad Fabry’s letter on Oct. 26 could apply to most towns in Orleans County, Gaines being first.

The incumbent administration in Gaines has an admirable record of returning town government back to honesty, integrity, and openness for all. The town of Gaines is the envy of many towns in Orleans County and beyond.

What improvements for the common good of the town has the self-appointed opposition offered? They do not present an agenda, though they must have one. Their campaign has consisted of unwarranted attacks using false or misleading accusations. They offer no constructive improvements.  Their bucket has a hole in it and therefore is empty.

The voters need to do the right thing and go to the polls and return Carol Culhane as town supervisor and Susan Smith as board member and elect Debra Mitchell as Town Clerk, all on the Conservative Party Line.

David Thom

Gaines

Editor:

John Riggi continues to present a skewed analysis of PSC comments. I am not surprised to see that he still refuses to acknowledge that, as my fellow community members have pointed out many times previously, a majority of the comments are from the same people, over and over again. In fact, 10 individuals have written over 220 comments!

Also, at the last Town Board meeting I noticed that most of the people speaking against the windmills or met tower do not live in Yates. While anyone is allowed to speak at our Town Board meetings, I think it’s important that everyone understand how many from outside our town are trying to influence our decisions!

Susan Campbell

Lyndonville

Editor:

As a Gaines town resident I think our town is an asset to our county. But, we must continue to have adequate town government. As we all know, we have an election coming up on November 7th.

In Gaines the seats of town supervisor, town clerk, and 2 town council are up for election. This year could be the turning point for the town of Gaines.

I am proud to say I am supporting Carol Culhane as Town of Gaines Supervisor. Ms. Culhane proudly and honorably has served our town for six years as Supervisor. But her service, and care have gone on a lot longer than her elected public position has.

Her opponent is a recent resident, compared to Ms. Culhane. When a candidate runs for office, the citizens hope they can count on them for having excitement for their town, as Carol obviously shows.

Please join me on November 7th at the Gaines Town Hall and put in your vote for Carol Culhane for Supervisor, Joyce Riley and Sue Smith for Town Council, and Debbie Mitchell for Town Clerk.

Thanks.

Kenneth J Capurso

Gaines

Editor:

Folks, let’s be honest with each other. There is no conspiracy at either the local or national level involving either the Republican or Democratic party. None!

What we have is a situation where 1) money talks more than it should, where 2) conspiracy stories about an “Establishment” get everyone excited, where 3) people put their faith in one line solutions to complex problems, where 4) second rate problem solvers get as much say so as first rate thinkers and where 5) politicians get to slide by because they distract us by slinging mud at better people. The fact is good government is about good people.

I decided to write a Letter to the Editor this year when I know a candidate stands out. I wrote in support of Sandy Church because of his overwhelming legal and personal qualifications.

Now I write about Susan Heard for Gaines Town Clerk. I have worked for her in her capacity as Public Administrator. That’s a position the County Treasurers in small counties have to do by law. It’s a thankless job. I have also acted as her independent counsel on numerous matters when needed. Let me say first that Sue has more scars from fighting the good fight than anyone outside of local government will ever know!

She knows her books. She knows State accounting regulations and requirements. She knows how to run a tight office where everyone gets along. And, yes, she has stood up for you in ways that you will never know. Saving a quarter million here, auditing books there and lots of times standing up and saying “NO. You can not do that”.  “That looks funny – stop right there.”  “You’re self dealing – do you want a ‘Go DirectlyTo Jail’ card?” Do you ever hear about all this?  Seldom, if ever.  But does it happen? Yes, it does.

Sue is simply top notch. She wants to continue to work part time as Town Clerk. It would be silly to not take advantage of that. Knowing her, she will put in full time hours until she has things running the way they should be.  It will be done well, without undue embarrassment to anyone, and professional in all respects. Frankly, I suspect that the same can be said about the entire slate of Grube, Heard, Kirby and Allport.

Conrad F. Cropsey

Albion

Editor:

This letter is written in support of Bruce Schmidt for Gaines Town Justice.

My late husband, Woody, and I have known Bruce and family for many years both socially and professionally. He and I serve on Genesee Orleans Community Action board of directors and have been longtime members and officers of Orleans County Historical Association.

Representing OCHA, Bruce donated his legal services in the acquisition of the Cobblestone Schoolhouse on Gaines Basin Road. Recently at the dedication of a bench and flagpole at this schoolhouse, Bruce delivered heartfelt and humorous remarks honoring Woody.

I find Bruce to be knowledgeable, dedicated, trustworthy, professional, caring and honest.  He is “one of the good guys.” These qualities make him the perfect candidate for Gaines Town Judge.

Please vote on November 7 to keep Bruce Schmidt for Gaines Town Justice.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Baker

Carlton

Editor:

If you’ve ever had the opportunity to stop in to the Kendall Town Clerk’s Office to utilize one of the many services offered to its residents, you most likely have been greeted by Amy Richardson, Kendall Town Clerk. Her friendly smile and laughter brightens the day of many who walk through the door. She is always willing to take as much time as needed to serve the residents of this town. Whether someone needs assistance or a compassionate ear, Amy is always there to help.

In addition to being a friendly face, Amy has spent the past ten years learning and improving the position of town clerk.  She is very knowledgeable in all the facets of her job. Being a small town, the town clerk wears many hats – tax collector, comptroller, records keeper, registrar, DEC agent , and clerk to the Town Board, just to name a few. Where larger towns might have several different departments, here in Kendall we have one, the town clerk.

Another important part of Amy’s job is being accessible to all constituents. During business hours she can be found at the counter helping her deputies, chatting with residents or working hard at her desk. However, sometimes those hours are not convenient for everyone. Amy has made appointments after hours to accommodate others’ schedules. She even has opened the office on weekends for couples needing a marriage license or hunters wanting last minute doe permits.

If you have any questions about our town clerk’s attendance record, work ethic, professionalism or commitment to the residents of Kendall, I challenge you to do your own research to find out the truth, not listen to rumors and hearsay. Or better yet, come in and say Hi. You will be greeted with a smile, a kind word and prompt, professional service.

On November 7^th, vote for who you know will do a better job serving the residents of our town.

Jennifer Banker

Deputy Town Clerk, Kendall

Editor:

No longer can local governments function efficiently without forming and maintaining solid working relationships with neighboring municipalities. This is particularly applicable for town supervisors who lead their respective town councils to better provide for the health, safety, and welfare of their constituents.

I have had the good fortune to know and work with Carol Culhane since I was elected as Town of Albion Supervisor four years ago. Most people do not know that Carol regularly gathered her fellow supervisors to discuss the unique challenges towns face. It was invaluable to meet and talk with other supervisors in a purely informational manner about how we better serve our respective towns. All of us came from different professional backgrounds, yet benefited immensely from our shared experiences. Each of us walked away more capable to serve as supervisors because Carol made it a priority to bring us together.

Despite what some candidates new to local government say, no one truly knows how to handle a town supervisor’s responsibilities in their first term. This is especially so if they have, for example, not been a regular participant at meetings, served on a planning board or on town council. We simply do not show up on January 1st of our first term knowing it all or even most of the job. It is a continual learning experience and no incumbent supervisor or candidate understands this better than Carol.

I cannot vote in the Town of Gaines, but if I could, there is no doubt my vote would be for Carol Culhane. She is everything you could ever ask for as Town Supervisor. And she is everything I could ask for as a friend.

Matthew Passarell

Supervisor

Town of Albion

Editor:

I am a former resident of Medina and have had the pleasure and privilege of knowing Karen Kaiser for the past 18 years. I consider her to be an exceptionally talented, conscientious, and dedicated individual and endorse her unequivocally for Ridgeway Town Clerk.

Karen has excelled in the role of Deputy Clerk for the past 6 years, regularly seeking out and successfully participating in job growth and development opportunities including, but not limited to, tax collection, notary public, and marriage officer.

In addition to being fully trained for the position of Town Clerk, Karen has the business and banking background, maturity, and wisdom to fulfill her duties as Town Clerk with the utmost dedication to the residents she serves. She will serve all residents, not just special interest groups.

If you value experience, integrity and respect, then vote for Karen Kaiser for Town Clerk.

Sincerely,

Gina George (formerly Gina Kilworth)

Bluff City, Tenn.

Editor:

What’s up with all these big name, big shot Republican Committee candidates slithering on their bellies like a snake over to the Democrat Party for endorsements? Really?

When they run unopposed they are big time Republican rah rah party people but when they have to face some competition they show their true roots. Republican voters in the Town of Gaines don’t be fooled. Look at their ad on the Hub, it looks like a Chuck Schumer-Nancy Pelosi Ticket trying to infiltrate your Town Board.

Stick with Conservative Republican Carol Culhane for Supervisor, Sue Smith for Town Council and Debra Mitchell for Town Clerk. Those are names you really can trust – not Desperados that will grab any line to win, then say, “Look at me, I’m a real Republican.”

How far the party has fallen. The masks come off when being up against proven tax cutting , corruption exposing, problem solving Conservatives.

Paul Lauricella Jr.

Town of Yates