By Kristina Gabalski, Correspondent Posted 25 June 2016 at 12:00 am
Photos by Kristina Gabalski – Members of the Holley Central School Class of 2016 enter Holley Hawks Stadium Saturday morning for commencement ceremonies.
HOLLEY – Sunny, dry weather Saturday morning meant Holley Central School was able to hold its 2016 commencement ceremonies outside in the Holley Hawks Stadium.
“Having the ceremony outside is a good thing,” Middle School/High School Principal Susan Cory noted as the program began.
Holley Central Class of 2016 Salutatorian Xander Lee Apicella, gives his address to fellow graduates as School Board President Brenda Swanger and Middle/High School Principal Susan Cory look on. Apicella said it is likely the dreams his classmates have today will change in the future. “Pursue your goals with passion and determination,” he said. “Take every opportunity, even if they are not what they once were.”
In his valedictory address, Brady James Smith said he, his classmates and their teachers, “have become one, big family,” over the past four years. He advised his fellow graduates that sometimes what they might expect to happen in the future, doesn’t.
“Learn new things … expect the unexpected and adapt,” Smith said.
As Class of 2016 Vice President, Smith presented the class gift – a monetary donation to the school’s unified sports team that includes some students with disabilities. This year was the first time Holley took part in the program, fielding a basketball team.
“We would love to see them expand beyond basketball,” Smith said.
Commencement speaker, Holley teacher and wrestling coach John J. Grillo, spoke to graduates about how to make good choices after bad breaks and advised: saying “I love you” are the three greatest words you can say to each other.
Middle/High School physical education teacher and varsity wrestling coach John Grillo gave the commencement address. As a teacher at Holley for 30 years, Grillo said he has known the graduates since they were, “barely able to do jumping-jacks or say the alphabet.”
Grillo, who was picked by the seniors to be commencement speaker, said inspiration leads to motivation, which leads to dedication, success and fulfillment.
“Strive to go above and beyond,” Grillo told graduates. “Open your wings and fly to another level. Being a Holley Hawk has given you the wings.”
Principal Susan Cory said that of the 84 graduates, 61 will pursue higher education at colleges and trade schools, 12 are entering the workforce, six are joining the military, three are undecided, and one is seeking additional training through a vocational program.
Heather Anne Winkley receives her diploma from her mom, Anne Winkley, Holley Central School Board member.
Holley graduate Courtney Morgan Winkley receives a hug from her mother, School Board member Anne Winkley. Anne Winkley presented diplomas to twin daughters Courtney Morgan and Heather Anne.
Members of the Holley Central School Class of 2016 during commencement ceremonies Saturday morning.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 25 June 2016 at 12:00 am
ALBION – Boaters and their dog take a ride in the Erie Canal in Albion following The Who Dats concert on Thursday evening.
It is going to be a hot weekend outside. The Weather Channel has issued an “extreme heat alert” for Albion and Orleans County today with temperatures forecast to hit 93. Sunday is also forecast to top 90 with a high of 91, according to the National Weather Service in Buffalo.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 25 June 2016 at 12:00 am
Photos by Tom Rivers – Medina graduates, including salutatorian Zachary Harris (center), enjoy a light moment during commencement on Friday at Medina High School, when 120 students graduated as part of the Class of 2016.
MEDINA – The graduation program on Friday for 120 members of the Class of 2016 began with a moment of silence for Jeff Evoy, the district superintendent for nearly five years and father of two recent Medina grads.
Evoy died on Thursday at age 50 after fighting a recent serious illness. He had been hospitalized for nearly a month, but continued to check email and be in close contact with school leaders.
High School Principal Michael Cavanagh told the packed auditorium that Evoy “was our beloved superintendent who passed away unexpectedly.” Some people in the crowd gasped, and hadn’t heard the news before that moment.
The graduation program went on as usual with the the singing of the national anthem, the alma mater, and selections – “It’s Hard to Say Goodbye” and “The Halls of Ivy” – by the A’Cappella Choir.
Medina seniors Bradley McPherson, left, holds the U.S. flag and Stella Russo holds the school flag when the national anthem and Medina Alma Mater were sung by students and the crowd.
Salutatorian Zachary Harris delivered his speech, “What is Your Reason?” and was followed by Valedictorian Amanda Lunden’s “Reflect, Risk, Reward” message.
Mark Kruzynski, the former high school principal who is now the district’s business administrator, delivered the commencement address.
Kruzynski served as acting superintendent and joined Wendi Pencille, the Board of Education president, in presenting the diplomas to the graduates, degrees that were signed by Evoy.
Naomi Slingerland accepts her diploma from Board of Education President Wendi Pencille and Mark Kruzynski, acting superintendent.
Students and Medina staff said after the program that Evoy and his family were in their thoughts and prayers.
Amanda Lunden, the valedictorian, showed her diploma bearing Evoy’s signature. She was in the school marching band with Evoy’s two children, Sean and Kelsey, who have since graduated.
“He was supposed to be up there with us,” Lunden said after the program when graduates met with their families outside the high school. “We all pictured being on the stage shaking his hand.”
Lunden, in her speech, urged her classmates to be reflective and not take people for granted. She urged her classmates to not “settle” in life, and take chances in better serving their families, attaining more success in their careers, and serving their communities. The focus shouldn’t be on attaining wealth and awards, however.
“When they lay you in the grave are people going to stand around reciting the fancy titles you have or are they going to stand around giving testimonials about the things you did for them?” Lunden said in her speech. “Will they list your degrees and awards or will they tell about what a blessing you were to them?”
Charles Enderby is congratulated after receiving his diploma.
Zachary Harris, the salutatorian, shared about how he had great expectations for his senior year, playing soccer and being active in numerous school activities. Harris, however, broke his leg in a soccer game in October.
He was out of school for about 10 days. When he returned he was behind in his classes and struggled to get around the school. He learned to appreciate his friends more for helping him get to his classes. Teachers also stayed after school to help him catch up on his schoolwork. Physical therapists pushed him to recover from the injury.
Now, eight months after the injury, Harris said he is nearly fully recovered. He was able to do throwing events in track, attend the winter formal and recent prom. He said he is thankful for all of the assistance he received and urged his classmates to pursue service occupations. Regardless of their careers, Harris told his classmates they should give back to the community and look for ways to help others.
“Doing something, no matter how minor it may seem to us, is not minor to the person you are helping, and it could make a huge impact on that one person’s life,” harris said.
Asazi Harris accepts her diploma from Pencille and Kruzynski.
Zachary Harris and Amanda Lunden had their speeches written before Evoy’s death. They stuck to their prepared speeches. Harris said Evoy was student-focused.
“He would have wanted us to go on just as if he was here,” Harris said.
The teachers, administrators and staff didn’t let their mourning disrupt preparations for graduation. Chris Keller, a Board of Education member and friend of Evoy’s, praised the school professionals for carrying on despite their grief over a very popular superintendent.
Evoy’s wife, Maureen, sent message to school on Friday morning that her husband wouldn’t want graduation to be a sad occasion. She urged the Medina community to celebrate the students’ achievements.
That was difficult to do when so many were in mourning, Kruzynski said after commencement.
“This is just terrible, it is devastating,” he said about Evoy’s death. “We’re all in shock.”
These Medina students, Troy Alexander, left, and Tyler Ames, are joining the military. Ten Medina students are enlisted in the armed forces. They were all asked to stand and be recognized during graduation.
The district had been planning to have Kruzynski function as acting superintendent for graduation because Evoy was hospitalized. But Kruzynski said Evoy’s death was a surprise and a painful loss.
“It’s impossible to fill his shoes,” Kruzynski said.
During his speech to the class, Kruzynski urged them to find careers they enjoy so their jobs don’t feel like work.
Afterwards, Keller said serving as district superintendent was Evoy’s “dream job.” He loved leading the district where he lived, helping students raise their achievement. Keller said he was expecting Evoy to stay in the job for another decade.
Keller and Evoy worked across the hall from each other when Evoy was a middle school social studies teacher in Albion. Evoy was a passionate teacher, leading students in service projects, including a Vietnam War Memorial in front of the middle school. In 2004, he was finalist for New York State teacher of the year.
The 54-foot-long daisy chain is set in front of the stage for graduation. The daisy chain has been a Medina commencement tradition for nearly a century.
Jared Zinkievich, the last Medina student to receive his diploma on Friday night, takes a selfie with his classmates in back.
Medina juniors carry the daisy chain out of the auditorium at the conclusion of commencement on Friday.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 24 June 2016 at 12:00 am
Rhonda Parker
ALBION – An Albion woman who produced and directed her first film in 2014 – “Friends Don’t Let Friends – Date Friends” – is organizing a new film and arts festival at Genesee Community College in August.
Rhonda Parker won several awards in 2014 at a Buffalo film festival. She has met many directors, producers and actors in the Western New York film circle in the past three years since she took up directing and producing films while a student at GCC.
“I didn’t know there were so many actors and films in Western New York,” Parker said. “This festival will be a chance to bring the Rochester and Buffalo film communities together.”
Parker said the two communities each have their own film culture, with Buffalo tending to be more prolific in producing films while Rochester’s film community is more technical-focused.
Parker and her husband Mark created Beaver Alley Studios, a non-profit organization last year. Since their debut film they have produced “Lonely Bananas,” which will be screened during the Western New York F.A.M.E. (Film, Art and Music Event). That film will be shown at 6 p.m. on Aug. 14, capping the three-day festival that starts Aug. 12. The Parkers also have produced “Message in a Bottle.”
Parker and Beaver Alley Studios are planning FAME with the Genesee Community College Center for the Arts. In addition to screening films, the festival will feature music performances, art displays, a photography contest, educational workshops, vendors, networking and “edgy comedy.”
Parker said the festival has generated buzz in the two film communities.
“As film makers, FAME understands the burden of high festival fees and the frustration of low audience turn out,” she said in a news release. “The group keeps fees low and has created an event with mass appeal. The festival treats film makers, musicians and artists like celebrities with an audience Q&A or panel discussion and encourages active audience participation by allowing attendees to choose some of the awards.”
File photo – Rhonda Parker, center right, is pictured in November 2014 with some of the cast and crew of “Friends Don’t Let Friends – Date Friends.” The group includes, front row, from left: Amelia Favata (Della) and Rhonda Parker (writer/director). Back row: Mark Parker (Director of photography/editor), Eric Witkowski (Jeff), Erin Stamp (Gwen), Casey Litzenberger (Allison) and Adam S. Dixson (Kyle).
Parker earned her degree from GCC with a double major in paralegal studies and communications. She wants to promote the local film and artistic talent, particularly the women artists.
Aug. 12 will feature scary films, while Aug. 13 will showcase “Girl Power” with films by female writers/directors or strong female leads. Aug. 14 will feature family-friendly films and others produced in WNY.
The mid-August festival at GCC has already received nearly 300 film, music and photography entries from all over the world. The organization is also seeking workshop presenters, sponsors and vendors. Vendor tables cost $100 for three days, but are discounted to $75 if booked by June 30. Tickets for the event are available on a per-block or workshop basis all the way to full VIP all-access. For more information on the schedule, tickets and the festival, click here.
“We are very excited about hosting an event like no other,” Parker said. “Three days of regional and international films, performances from local singers and songwriters, art displays, educational workshops-and of course, the all-important networking giving all attendees the opportunity to explore, exchange and share ideas and inspiring artists to continue their work.”
Photo by Tom Rivers – A fisherman is pictured at Point Breeze in this photo from May 3, 2015.
Press Release, Gov. Cuomo’s Office
Gov. Andrew Cuomo today announced free fishing days in New York State, inviting residents and visitors to explore more of New York State by participating in the sport as part of the NY Open for Fishing and Hunting Initiative.
During these special days, including this weekend, New York residents and non-residents are permitted to fish for free without a fishing license in any of the state’s 7,500 lakes and ponds, or its 70,000 miles of rivers and streams during this time.
“New York has some of the best fishing in the nation, and with our Free Fishing Days program, we’re making it easier than ever for residents and visitors to come out and experience all that our waters have to offer,” Cuomo said. “This is an excellent time to introduce friends and family to the many excellent places to fish in virtually every corner of this state.”
Based on the popularity of the June free fishing period, Cuomo has also designated November 11, 2016 (Veterans Day) and February 18-19, 2017 as free fishing days. Saltwater anglers may also fish in marine waters or for migratory marine fish species without enrolling in the Recreational Marine Fishing Registry during free fishing days.
“Fishing is a proud tradition in New York State, and we’re thrilled to offer more free opportunities for residents and visitors alike to get out on our waters and enjoy angling throughout the calendar year,” said Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos. “Fishing in New York State not only provides recreational enjoyment but is a vital economic generator, supporting local economies statewide.”
New York’s sport fishing industry generates an estimated $1.8 billion in economic activity annually, supporting nearly 17,000 jobs.
Under the 2016-17 budget, Governor Cuomo’s NY Open for Fishing and Hunting Initiative provides $3 million for State land access projects and $4 million for hunting and fishing infrastructure. The 2015-16 budget also created a new capital account, which, along with federal Pittman-Robertson funds, will be used to manage, protect and restore fish and wildlife habitat and will improve and develop public access for fish and wildlife-related recreation.
This year’s commitment builds on the previous $6 million in funding for 50 new projects to provide access to approximately 380,000 acres of existing State lands for recreation, including boat launches, bird-watching areas, trails and hunting blinds, and $8 million for upgrades and improvements to fish hatcheries statewide.
In addition to the Free Fishing Days program, the Governor’s NY Open for Fishing and Hunting Initiative will now allow organizations and groups to conduct individual free fishing events. These events must meet Department’s guidelines designed to ensure that the events are educational in focus. Participants in these events do not need a license to fish and are not required to enroll in the Recreational Marine Fishing Registry.
Anglers are reminded that although a fishing license is not required during the free fishing day weekend, or free fishing events, all other fishing regulations remain in effect.
The free fishing events give people a chance to try the thrilling sport of fishing at no cost, and people are encouraged to support the sport by purchasing a New York State fishing license. To learn more, click here.
For a listing of all free fishing events, including those conducted during free fishing days, please visit the DEC website by clicking here.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 24 June 2016 at 12:00 am
Photos by Tom Rivers
ALBION – Marty Hobbs plays the guitar with The Who Dats during Thursday’s concert by the canal in Albion. A big crowd came out for the popular local band as part of Albion’s Thursday concert series.
The concert series started last Thursday and continues until Aug. 4. The bands play beginning at 6 p.m. by the fire hall. The Albion Fire Department has refreshments available during the concerts.
Aaron Robinson is the drummer for The Who Dats.
Lonnie Froman is the lead singer for the band, and he had people up dancing.
Upcoming concerts include:
June 30, Old Hippies; July 7, The Dady Brothers; July 14, The Lonely Ones; July 21, Triple Play Band; July 28, Don Newcomb Band; Aug. 4, The Legendary Jonesie & the Cruisers.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 24 June 2016 at 12:00 am
Jeff Evoy
MEDINA – The news of Jeff Evoy’s death shocked and saddened the community and many Medina students, teachers and community members turned to social media to praise Evoy’s service and genuine concern for students.
Evoy was the Medina school superintendent for nearly five years, leading the district to a dramatic improvement in test scores among students.
He started his education career at Albion and was a popular social studies teacher and baseball coach. He was finalist for the state’s Teacher of the Year in 2003. After Albion, he took a job in administration at Pembroke, leading the elementary school.
Orleans Hub posted a story about 9:30 p.m. on Thursday about Evoy’s death. Many people have since commented about Evoy’s commitment to students and staff.
Here are some of those comments:
“RIP Mr. Evoy. You were and always will be the best superintendent in my book. :(” – Hunter DeHollander
“Awesome history teacher, great school superintendent. He surely will be missed.” – Kellie Watson
“RIP to literally the nicest man I ever met. He stood up for me when I was getting picked on when he ran the YMCA summer program, he was my baseball coach and always believed in me even though I couldn’t hit the ball, and later on was the best superintendent Medina has had in a very long time. There wasn’t a day that went by that he didn’t say hi and asked how I was doing while he worked in Medina. My thoughts go out to the Evoy family during this time, he was truly an inspirational man and he will be missed dearly.” – Matt Prawel
“Oh no! Such an amazing educator!” – Rachael Murray
“He was an amazing and inspiring teacher. I consider myself lucky to have had Mr. Evoy as my middle school social studies teacher. He’s one of the people who helped me develop a love of history which led me to become a social studies teacher myself.” – Ken Narburgh
Jeff Evoy is pictured with Medina teachers in March after the district was removed from the State Education Department’s list of “Focus” schools in need of improvement. Evoy praised the teachers, administrators, parents and students for all working hard to raise academic scores. This group is pictured in the middle school library and includes, from left: Becky Botsford, grades 6 and 7 band teacher; Kristen Phillips, librarian; Jeanette Sheliga, grade 4 and 5 band teacher; Principal Elaine Wendt; Superintendent of Schools Jeff Evoy; Denise Stappenbeck, director of curriculum and instruction; and Joette Oberther, library aide.
“I am at a loss for words and saddened by the news. Mr. Evoy was a kind, loving man. Our thoughts and prayers to his family.” – Tina Dennis
“An absolutely amazing and inspiring teacher and person. He will be greatly missed by many. Thoughts and prayers to his family.” – Lisa Marie
“So very sad. He truly loved this community and every student in it. His presence will be so missed.” – Shannon Gray Blount
“I am saddened to hear this news. He was one dynamic guy that made a difference in the students, educators, other employees and the community. My prayers are with his his family and all who cared about him.” – Brenda Sills
“I hope his wife and family know how much he was loved by students! Some of my very best memories of high school were in his class. He was one of kind and so caring. Many many thoughts and prayers to his family, his friends, colleagues, and the Albion, Pembroke and Medina school district families where he made such a huge impact. Rest easy Mr. Evoy.” – Laura Luft
“He was a kind man who inspired many to go into education to inspire future generations and/or to simply to do good wherever they could. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.” – Angela Atwell
“I have no words for this loss of life. He was an incredible human being . One that we should hope to emulate. God bless his family.” – Jill Albertson
“It’s not fair! Very sad! I’m proud to have known him. He made such a difference in our education. He was also a great baseball coach for the kids. Love to the Evoy family. Graduation today will be tough. There won’t be a dry eye in the house.” – Dar Schepis
“Very sad to say the least. Jeff was a great man, husband, father, boss but best of all friend. Always supportive and encouraging ALL teachers and students to be better people. He was truly inspirational to many and especially me. His family is an extension of his character and guidance. Mom and kids are what we all wish for kind gentle and helpful without reservation or question. Their love for each other was and will be their strength. My heart as well as many are very heavy today. Jeff you will be missed by all.” – Jimmy Steele
MEDINA – Some Medina juniors have been out picking daisies for the annual Daisy Chain tradition at commencement. This photo shows three high school juniors – Krista Nellist, left, Toby Kiebala and Sarah Granchelli. They were picking daisies Thursday by the canal at Dr. Peter Igoe’s on West Center Street Extension.
During commencement today at 7 p.m., 16 Medina juniors will carry a 54-foot-long chain of daisies into Medina High School Auditorium. It continues a nearly century-long tradition at Medina.
The Daisy Chain is a chance to honor the top 16 girls in the Junior Class. They are escorted by the top two boys in the class.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 24 June 2016 at 12:00 am
HOLLEY – There will be firefighters from 25 local departments Sunday at Precision Packaging Products in Holley, practicing search and rescues, firefighter mayday, and water supply relays.
The training drill will start at 8 a.m. and is expected to go until noon, said Harris Reed, deputy fire chief for the Holley Fire Company.
The drill will use water from village hydrants and there is a chance residents’ water could turn brownish, Reed said.
There will be nearly 20 pumper fire trucks at the scene to practice water relays. Water will be put in dump tanks at the scene. Reed said this is the first big training drill hosted by Holley in about a dozen years.
Firefighters will also utilize a KnoxBox, an indestructible spot that gives firefighters and emergency responders access to keys to get inside the building. Precision Packaging is the first Holley business to use a KnoxBox. Reed said Holley firefighters would like to see more businesses use KnoxBoxes.
Precision Packaging is located in Holley’s Business Park off Route 31, behind JP’s Farm Market.
(Editor’s Note: Orleans County Legislature Chairman David Callard delivered these remarks during the June 22, 2016, Legislature meeting.)
Every year it seems that the Empire Center for Public Policy puts out a list of the highest tax rates in the state – and every year the citizens of Orleans County are treated to a rehash of news articles highlighting certain parts of the study and scolding local officials, whether they be village, town, county, or school, for their role in achieving that dubious ranking.
Most recently there was an article on village taxes within the county reporting them among the worst in the state. What is lacking in this news article, however, was the whole story.
Villages are constantly being ranked regardless of size. Given that premise – one benchmark that is always used is the Top 20 Property Tax Bills on Median-Value Homes. That list has never included an Orleans County village, but that is never mentioned. Or more significantly, included in the report, but is never mentioned in articles, is that the county taxes paid per capita in Orleans County are the SECOND
LOWEST of the 57 counties in New York State. Again – the second lowest taxes paid per person in New York State.
People tend to be negative without acknowledging all of the facts. This is something the state government does all the time when deriding the counties. The town of Ridgeway is a solid 816th out of 932 for towns in taxes per capita. The Medina School district is also very solid at 625th out of 702 for local spending per pupil among school districts. Even the Village of Medina’s 238th out of 557 in taxes per capita doesn’t seem so earth shattering considering the high level of services.
Let’s face it; casting blame without an acknowledgement of all the facts is something we get plenty of from people in Albany. We don’t need to do it here as well. It would be responsible to cite those other stats as they give a fuller picture.
Orleans County pays over $16,000,000 to the state in unfunded mandates- our entire tax levy. But articles and the critics constantly disregard that fact, and seldom if ever criticize the Governor and the New York State Legislature for the property taxes at the county level alone and even more at the school level.
According to every academic study ever undertaken on the subject, the fundamental differences between New York State and the other states in the country boil down to two basic things: 1) the way New York State funds Medicaid and 2) the way New York State funds education. Sure we have lots of other over-regulation and taxation issues beyond those two. But, those are the really big ones.
New York is the only state in the country to require a significant local share of Medicaid be paid by the counties and the average state funds two-thirds of public education through income taxes while New York State funds about one-third. It’s really that simple.
Indeed the village governments of Orleans County face tremendous challenges, not the least of which is the high property tax rates. The dissolution efforts in the Village of Medina, though rejected by Medina residents, if nothing else, forced a conversation, a necessary conversation.
In some areas of our local governments, we are doing business in the 21st century on 20th century terms. In some cases, we are holding on to old ways of doing business that could be changed for the betterment of the community at large. This isn’t to say that people are wrong for feeling that they want to hold on to their village, or their town, or their school district.
What it does tell us, is that it’s time for us to challenge ourselves, people on both sides of the argument, east and west, north and south. Challenge ourselves to take a hard look at what we are doing and ask ourselves “If given a clean slate, would we build our service delivery models the way they are now, or completely different?”
Inevitably, we are going to find areas where we can build a better mousetrap together. We have the ability to fix what ails us to some degree. We can work with our friends and neighbors and make changes that will raise all boats. We can realign service models, adjust cost centers, and change the landscape profoundly.
If we are going to seek honesty about mandates and education funding from the state, we also need to be honest with ourselves. This is a conversation that should take place in earnest and should seek solutions that remove Orleans County and its villages, towns and school districts from such a list forever.
Apologies to those that believe the answer is to complain that the county should give away more sales tax. The answer to this challenge is not to have the taxpayers of the county surrender cash to the village governments, to throw at their existing service models, buying them time until the inflation and expense curve catches up with them again as some suggest.
The answer is change. Change that we can all buy into that alters the equation. It requires compromise. It requires faith. And, it requires casting off old notions of provincialism.
Truth be told about sales tax, when examining statistics from 2013 on New York State Counties, there are 14 counties under 50,000 in population like Orleans County and four in the Finger Lakes Region, of which we are a part. Orleans County ranks as the fourth highest for the percentage of sales tax shared.
However, two of the 14 counties have cities (Cortland and Montgomery) that are able to preempt and capture much larger shares of the overall revenue. Dropping those two counties lifts Orleans County to number two in the state among small counties without a city in terms of sharing sales tax, second to Schuyler County, the home of Watkins Glen International Speedway.
Delving further into those same statistics, it’s evident that eight of the 14 counties do not share sales tax revenue at all, zero percent. So, the majority of small counties in New York State do not share sales tax. Orleans County is the only county in the Finger Lakes Region under 50,000 in population that actually shares sales tax revenue.
The local law enforcement community in Orleans County is about to embark on a comprehensive study of the way we are doing business. Orleans County and our partners, the Villages of Albion, Medina, Holley and Lyndonville, along with the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office, and all the law enforcement unions in the county have agreed to undertake a process to look at new service models and explore
what can be done.
There are ways to change the way we do business that could guarantee that our communities are never negatively reported on the annual list put out by the Empire Center again.
This is going to be hard and it will require that we work together. This legislature is bound and determined to make positive change for all within our county. We can begin to say goodbye to the dark cloud over our heads. Those that offer only criticism and opposition absent of solutions will be forgotten. This legislature will be remembered for leading and making a difference.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 23 June 2016 at 12:00 am
Kenai kept a watchful eye on Tyler Schnepf
Photos by Tom Rivers – Tyler Schnepf, 11, climbs the stairs in the Ronald L. Sodoma Elementary School this morning with Kenai, a service dog trained to detect changes in Tyler’s blood sugar levels. Kenai spent the entire school year with Tyler.
ALBION – The Ronald L. Sodoma Elementary School welcomed a popular addition this school year: a service dog named Kenai.
The dog stayed close to fifth-grader Tyler Schnepf throughout the year, even riding the bus with him and joining him at school concerts. Kenai, a 2-year-old English Cream Golden Retriever, spent most of the school days sitting on the carpet next to Tyler in Mrs. Mindy Kenward’s class.
“It was a very smooth transition,” Mrs. Kenward said today. “Some days we didn’t even know Kenai was here.”
Kenai joins Mrs. Kenward’s fifth-grade class today on the last day of school. The dog will join Tyler and the other fifth-graders in moving up to the middle school in September.
Tyler’s mother Jennifer Orr praised the school administrators, teachers, staff and students for welcoming Kenai this year. The family raised $20,000 through raffles, a spaghetti dinner and other fund-raisers to buy the dog that was trained to detect drops or spikes in Tyler’s blood sugar levels.
“We wouldn’t have been able to get Kenai without the community support,” Orr said today.
Kenai received his puppy and obedience training from a breeder in Alaska. Then he was trained in California to detect diabetic levels. Tyler’s family sent swabs of Tyler’s saliva at different blood sugar levels for Kenai to train.
Kenai joined the family last summer. He is a working service dog so students were urged not to pet the dog and to try to draw his attention. That proved difficult for some students, especially the kids in pre-kindergarten and kindergarten. Even Mrs. Kenward, an admitted “dog lover,” said she was tempted to pet the dog.
The new yearbook includes a headshot of Kenai and Tyler.
Tyler’s family pushed to get a service dog because Tyler has juvenile diabetes. He was diagnosed when he was 7. He was checking his sugar levels 10 times a day. He and his family learned to live with the frequent checks and the insulin shots.
But the situation became more worrisome in the summer of 2014 when Tyler’s mother heard him thrashing on his bedroom floor. It was 6:30 in the morning and Tyler was having a seizure. The next day he was walking and talking, when he sensed something wasn’t quite right. He had another seizure, falling into his mother’s arms. She administered an emergency glucagon shot.
Tyler’s parents kept a continuous glucose monitor on him, and installed a video monitor to watch him at night. But they fear that wouldn’t be enough to alert them if their son is having a seizure.
A diabetic alert dog, however, can detect a drop or spike in blood sugar levels before there is a seizure. With Kenai, Tyler’s average blood sugar readings have been 119. Before that they were in the high 200s.
“The dog will alert us when Tyler’s blood sugar starts to go high or low,” Mrs. Orr said. “We haven’t had real highs or lows because Kenai catches them sooner.”
If the dog senses a change in Tyler’s blood sugar, the dog will scratch at Tyler’s leg or go wake up his parents if it’s at night.
Kenai wears a service dog vest. He is usually tethered to Tyler during the school day. Today he took a break while Tyler stopped in the nurse’s office. The dog was trained to go potty before school and not again until the afternoon when Kenai was home.
Mrs. Kenward asked the fifth-graders today how they thought the year went with Kenai. The students were positive and said they were amazed the dog adjusted to the class routine, and didn’t mind some of the surprises, such as fire drills and the loud clanging during band. (Tyler plays the trumpet.)
Tyler said this school year went by fast. He said Kenai fit in well with his classmates.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 23 June 2016 at 12:00 am
Photos by Tom Rivers
ALBION – Orleans County legislators Lynne Johnson and John DeFillips, left, present “Special Recognition Awards” to local teen-agers for saving the life of a man on May 26 who drove into Lake Ontario at Golden Hill State Park in Barker.
The teens include, from left: Alex Plummer, Josh Tombari and Hayden London (as well as Matt Scroger, not pictured). They were invited to Wednesday’s Orleans County Legislature meeting. They are joined by Lt. Patrick Rindsleisch of the Niagara County Sheriff’s Department, second from right, and Orleans County Sheriff Randy Bower.
The teens went fishing at Golden State Park in Barker on Thursday and likely saved the life of a man who drove into the lake. They boys were fishing by the inlet at the state park. They heard an engine roar and then a big splash in the water.
They ran to the lake and saw a green van pointed down in the water. The front was submerged. Another man was standing near the shore and told the teens a man was inside the van.
London and Plummer each grabbed big rocks. London took off his shirt and dove in the water. He saw a man who appeared to be elderly inside, hitting at the window trying to get out.
London smashed the driver’s window with a rock. Water came rushing inside the van, London told the Orleans Hub on May 27, a day after the rescue. London put his shirt on the window, to protect the man from the broken glass. London and Plummer then pulled the man out of the van.
Hayden London, right, accepts the “Special Recognition Award” from Legislator John DeFilipps.
Rindsleisch said the man is likely doing well today because there hasn’t been any reports of injuries. He couldn’t provide more information because of confidentiality laws. But he did say the boys deserve praise for their actions on May 26.
Legislators called London, a junior at Lyndonville, “an extraordinary human being” for his selfless actions after a man had driven into the lake.
“Your quick thought and immediate action, with a rock in your hand, saved this life,” legislators said in the award for London. “By going above and beyond and risking your own life to save another, the Orleans County Legislature has a renewed sense that people are willing to help others in times of need. This will forever be remembered and extremely appreciated.”
“The Orleans County Legislature does hereby commend you for your heroism and is proud and grateful that you are a citizen of Orleans County.”
Sheriff Bower also presented the boys with T-shirts with a message about the importance of forward-thinking.
Bower, a former youth coach, said he always preached to his players to be prepared and to be thinking ahead.
“We applaud you for what you did,” Bower told the teens.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 23 June 2016 at 12:00 am
ALBION – Rob Doyle, principal auctioneer and appraiser for Absolute Auctions and Realty, seeks bids for the former Lyndonville Pennysaver Market. The property sold for $1,000 to Jonathan Daniels of Waterport in the Orleans County tax foreclosure auction on Wednesday.
The Pennysaver Market closed three years ago. The property had $37,945 in back taxes.
The county sold 41 properties for a $324,200. The properties collectively carried $497,914 in back taxes. The auction didn’t cover the back taxes, resulting in a net loss of $173,714. (Winning bidders have to pay the current year’s taxes on the properties.)
Several of the houses in the auction sold for less than $1,000.
Frank T. Pietrzak, auctioneer for Absolute Auctioneers, seeks bids for house at 134 West Bank St. in Albion. It sold for $300 to Phillip Newbould of Kendall.
Business sites also didn’t command much money. A site in downtown Medina at 333 Main St., next to the Starlite Cleaners, sold for $200 to Demetrios Bitsas.
The former S.A. Cook Furniture Factory, where there was a small fire on Monday, sold for $100 to William Grathouse III of Holley. The 70,600-square-foot building is located at 525 East Ave.
In Kendall, a 3,584-square-foot building in the downtown at 1841 Kendall Rd. sold for $400 to Phillip Newbould of Kendall. One of Holley’s attached row buildings in the downtown also was up for sale. The site at 89 Public Square fetched $100 from an online bidder, The Eaton Agency in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
One property was in command. An apartment complex at 218 Linwood Ave. in Albion sold for $100,000, the highest bid of the day. Brad Bokman of Albion bought the site.
The auction drew a crowd of bidders and some curiosity seekers to the Elk’s Club on West State Street.
By Kristina Gabalski, Correspondent Posted 23 June 2016 at 12:00 am
Business owners praised for ‘stepping up’ to address situation
Photo by Kristina Gabalski – Nathan Pace, an attorney from Medina, speaks to Murray Town Board members Wednesday evening during a workshop meeting. The town’s ongoing efforts to address on-street parking outside businesses was discussed.
MURRAY – Members of the Murray Town Board agreed Wednesday evening to monitor and assist businesses in the town in regards to on-street parking issues.
The town has spent two years discussing options for bringing businesses into compliance with its zoning, which Code Enforcement Officer Ron Vendetti says requires businesses to provide off-street parking for customers.
The Town Board workshop session on the issue began with Vendetti reporting that the situation is much different now than two years ago in regards to compliance.
“There has been progress everywhere to varying degrees,” Vendetti said. “People have made efforts to control parking on the road outside their businesses.”
He noted there are still some problems, but the town has so far refrained from putting up no parking signs to, “Give folks a chance to address” the issue, Vendetti said.
Several business owners attended the meeting.
“We pull people from far and wide,” said Amy Machamer of Hurd Orchards. “We try to make them feel welcome.”
For Hurd’s, that has meant creating additional on-site parking and encouraging customers to park there.
Vendetti noted Hurd’s is the largest business affected by the parking issue and for that reason has, “seen the most dramatic decrease in (on-street) parking.”
Machamer asked the Board not to resort to no parking signs, calling them negative communication and a complete deterrent to customers. “Help us to encourage our guests as opposed to punishing our guests,” she said.
Attorney Nathan Pace represented A&M Automotive and told the Board that he had been in contact with the state Department of Transportation. He explained the DOT has no regulations prohibiting on-street, parallel parking on state roads and is responsible for safety along its roadways. The DOT doesn’t see parking as a “safety issue,” Pace said.
He, too, asked the town not to put up no parking signs which would, “chill what Murray is,” Pace said. He explained that most businesses along Rt. 31 and Ridge Road are located in former homes – “which are not amenable to a shopping center parking lot.”
Murray Town Supervisor John Morriss said “sandwich” signs like those used by Hurd Orchards can direct customers to off-street parking. Morriss said those signs are an effective alternative to the town placing no parking signs.
“It’s a good idea, a compromise,” he said.
Councilman Paul Hendel said he agreed that the town should not resort to no parking signs. “There has been lots of voluntary compliance, the best compliance is voluntary,” Hendel said. “The business owners are stepping up.”
Vendetti and Hendel both brought up the issue of safety, particularly when customers park across from a business and must walk across the roadway.
“I don’t believe we should wait for accidents,” Vendetti said. “It’s an unsafe situation. We are not requesting parking areas be paved.”
He said the Murray Superette at the corner of Rt. 104 and Rt. 237 continues to be an issue. He said he would contact the NYSDOT regarding signs which block the view for motorists and requested the town put up no parking signs at that location. The owners of the Superette were not in attendance at Wednesday’s work session.
The board also addressed the issue of on-street parking along Lynch Road outside the Holley Middle School/High School during special events. Residents told the board they continue to worry about safety issues. Doug Piedemonte said there is parking available on the Holley Central School campus near the old bus garage. He said he counted 140 parking spaces, which would accommodate the 70-80 car overflow which often ends up on Lynch Road.
Town Board members said they would discuss the issue with the School District and with the Village of Holley as the south side of Lynch Road is in the village.
File photos by Tom Rivers – John Robinson is pictured last June 30 on his third ride along the Erie Canal, going 363 miles from Buffalo to Albany. He is pictured with his wife Andrea. They are close to the Main Street lift bridge in Albion.
John Robinson and his friend Doug Hamlin are again riding the Erie Canal towpath to highlight inclusivity, showing that people with disabilities are capable of big feats.
Robinson and Hamlin also are using the trip from Buffalo to Albany to celebrate launch of New York Business Leadership Network, a coalition among businesses in New York State interested in both hiring and building supplier diversity of businesses owned by individuals with disabilities.
John Robinson meets with people with disabilities last June 30 when he stopped at The Arc of Orleans County.
Robinson and Hamlin will spend 12 days riding bicycles about 350 miles across upstate New York via the historic Erie Canalway Trail. The two men are partners in Glenmont-based Our Ability, a network of consulting, public speaking, recruitment and professional services that champions the inclusivity of people with disabilities in the workplace.
“Each year our journey aims to raise awareness of the ability inside all people with disabilities,” said Robinson. “Along the way, we will connect with athletes and other individuals with disabilities and promote inclusive tourism along the historic Erie Canal.”
Robinson was a congenital amputee without full arms and legs. He overcame countless obstacles to become a successful businessman, husband, father and inspirational speaker.
In 2011 he founded Our Ability (click here for more information) with Hamlin, a 28-year veteran of the software industry who is also disabled as the result of an accident in 1983. At Our Ability they help to mentor and inspire people with disabilities through positive video stories. In 2014, Robinson was one of 10 people nationally named a White House Champion of Change for Disability Employment.
The New York Business Leadership Network was formed by Our Ability in December of 2015 in response to Governor Andrew Cuomo’s 2014 executive order establishing the Employment First Commission to create employment opportunities for people with disabilities in New York. The executive order calls for 100 businesses to commit to formal policies to hire people with disabilities as part of their diversity strategy.
“NYBLN’s dual goals are to inspire those individuals with disabilities to achieve their dreams through education and employment as well as to educate able-bodied individuals about the differences in ability around us,” Robinson said.
John Robinson, left, and his friend Doug Hamlin, right, ride adaptive use bicycles along West Bank Street in Albion in this photo from July 1, 2014.
This year’s canal trip begins in Buffalo’s Canal Side Park and concludes on July 8 at Jennings Landing in Albany. As the tour makes its way across New York, numerous advocacy groups and organizations supporting the rights of people with disabilities will join Robinson and Hamlin for parts of the trip.
Robinson was inspired to undertake the first Journey Along the Erie Canal by his wife, Andrea, and two children after receiving a three-wheeled, hand-operated cycle as a donation. His family helped him learn how to ride and then train for the statewide journey. Hamlin joined Robinson that first year and saw what the ride could symbolize. He will once again ride alongside Robinson on his own specialized hand cycle.
As in past years, Our Ability’s partners for the journey include New York State Industries for the Disabled, Inc. (NYSID), New York State Canal Corporation, the Disability Education Forum of New York, Inc., the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor, and NYSARC, Inc.
“The New York State Canal Corporation is thrilled to partner with Our Ability for the fourth annual Journey Along the Erie Canal,” said Canal Corporation Director Brian Stratton. “John and Doug are an inspiration to us all. Their message of inclusion and support can be extended to all facets of life and across all borders. We are proud that once again the Erie Canal and Canalway Trail will serve as the background of such a worthy cause.”
