Medina

Medina recognizes 2 from Class of 1998 as Distinguished Alumni

Photos by Tom Rivers: Dr. Leanne (Hermann) Olshavsky M.D. and Anne Joynt are pictured with the wall of distinguished alumni by the cafeteria near the FFA at Medina High School. Olshavsky is an obstetrician and gynecologist in Cincinnati while Joynt works as an attorney in Buffalo.

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 7 November 2019 at 11:00 pm

MEDINA – The two new honorees of Medina’s Distinguished Alumni, who both graduated in 1998, praised their upbringing in Medina and a nurturing small school for preparing them for rigorous careers.

Anne Joynt and Dr. Leanne (Hermann) Olshavsky were both recognized today at Medina High School during a ceremony in front of the student body. Both have achieved excellence in their careers.

Joynt is a junior partner with Lipsitz & Ponterio, LLC, a law firm in Buffalo. She represents people who have suffered injuries as a result of exposure to asbestos, as well as those affected by childhood lead poisoning, motor vehicle accidents, construction accidents, medical malpractice and defective products.

Joynt, the daughter of retired Oak Orchard Elementary School Principal Cathy Joynt, has been named Woman Lawyer of the Year by Women Lawyers of Western New York. She recently served as president of the Western New York Chapter of the Women’s Bar Association, a statewide organization with 20 member chapters dedicated to the advancement of women in the law and in society. (Her first job when she was a teen-ager was at Blissett’s in Medina as a sales associate.)

Anne Joynt urged the students at the Medina assembly to follow a creed of kindness in how they treat others in their professional and personal lives.

Medina may be a small school, but Joynt said that environment fosters enduring friendships.

She had an opportunity to visit Europe as a student at Medina, and that experience instilled a love for travel and seeing the world. Also at Medina, she was challenged in the school’s English Department, and that led her to pursue an undergraduate English degree at Geneseo State College before she went to law school at the University of Buffalo.

Joynt said she was thrilled to be recognized by the school on the same day Medina honored one of her classmates, Dr. Leanne (Hermann) Olshavsky, an obstetrician and gynecologist in Cincinnati at The Christ Hospital.

Dr. Leanne (Hermann) Olshavsky is congratulated by Michael Cavanagh, the high school principal.

Olshavsky earned her undergraduate degree from Miami University in Ohio. She attended medical school and completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, where she was also chief resident.

“My love for science started in this building,” she told Medina students today.

She urged them to not be motivated by mere happiness, but to search for meaningfulness in their careers and personal lives.

A focus on meaningfulness ultimately leads to long-term happiness, with a connection to a larger purpose over dollar signs, she said.

Olshavsky also is in Medina’s athletic hall of fame. She said there isn’t a “one size fits all” path to meaningfulness.

The two distinguished alumni were praised as examples for Medina students. Michael Cavanagh, the high school principal, said the two alumni show the power of working hard and completing tasks.

“With persistence anything is possible,” he said.

Medina accepts nominations for distinguished alumni each year by July 31. Then a committee of current and former teachers and administrators, and alumni will review the nominations and select the inductees. The ceremony is held in the fall during a school assembly.

Cavanagh said the school wants to honor alumni, promote school spirit and pride, and pick alumni who can inspire current students.

The A’Cappella Select Ensemble, led by Rachel Trillizio, performed “God Bless America.”

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Medina honor students serve dinner to 115 veterans and their families

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 7 November 2019 at 6:37 pm

Photos courtesy of Michael Cavanagh, high school principal

MEDINA – The National Honor Society at Medina High School served 115 dinners to veterans and their families this evening in the school cafeteria. Trenton Crews is among the NHS members serving the group their meals.

The NHS raises funding for the annual dinner, and happily serves the meals.

Elle Gross joined the effort in serving the meals, which has become an annual event put on by the National Honor Society.

The veterans and their families enjoy the dinner in the school cafeteria. After the meal, the group headed to the auditorium for a performance by the Medina Marching Band, which recently won the state championship.

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DOT closing Bates Road canal bridge on Friday for 7 months

File photo by Tom Rivers: Motorists use the Bates Road canal bridge on Nov. 27, 2017. They are crossing the Erie Canal in Medina.

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 7 November 2019 at 9:25 am

MEDINA – The canal bridge on Bates Road in Medina will close to traffic on Friday and will be off-limits to motorists for 7 months for rehabilitation work.

The state Department of Transportation has hired Crane Hogan Structural Systems for the project. This is one of seven canal bridges in the county getting extensive work as part of a $10.7 million initiative. Two of the bridges – Bennetts Corners Road in Murray and Densmore Road in Albion – are complete and have reopened to traffic this year.

The state also is currently working to overhaul canal bridges on Telegraph Road and Transit Road in Murray.

Besides Bates Road, the DOT also will work on two other bridges – Gaines Basin Road in the Town of Gaines and Marshall Road in the Town of Ridgeway.

The work includes installing galvanized steel to replace steel floor systems, low chords, gusset plates, and truss elements. Bridge railing and guide rail on the bridge approaches also will be improved and the bridges will be repainted black.

The seven single-lane truss bridges were constructed between 1909 and 1914.

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State picks Seneca Falls over Medina for $10 million downtown revitalization grant

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 6 November 2019 at 4:34 pm

Courtesy of Village of Medina, DRI application: The Village of Medina wants to improve public access to the Medina Waterfalls by constructing an elevated platform from the towpath. That project was part of Medina’s application for $10 million in DRI funding.

Medina village officials and many community leaders have been anxiously waiting for months to hear whether Medina would be awarded $10 million from the state for a Downtown Revitalization Initiative.

Today came the announcement from the state. The money is going to Seneca Falls.

The state has been approving $10 million for 10 different DRI each year, one for each of the 10 regions of the state. NY considers Medina and Orleans County to be in the Finger Lakes region/

This is the fourth round of the DRI, where communities submit applications and the state decides the winner. Previous $10 million grant winners in the Finger Lakes region include the City of Geneva in 2016, the City of Batavia in 2017, the Village of Penn Yan last year and now Seneca Falls.

Medina put together an application with projects that that would have improved the downtown business district, the water front by the canal, created public access by the water falls, expanded housing opportunities, and added tourism amenities and attractions.

Click here to see an article detailing Medina’s application.

Medina Mayor Michael Sidari said the village has a strong application and will try again next year for the $10 million.

Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul was in Seneca Falls today to announce the DRI award.

“With funding from the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, Seneca Falls will continue to flourish as an integral part of state and national history,” Hochul said. “As the birthplace of the women’s rights movement and a charming part of the Finger Lakes, Seneca Falls is primed for continued investment that will positively impact downtown growth. With this once in a lifetime opportunity, Seneca Falls will develop a roadmap for the future with innovative projects focused on boosting the local and regional economy.”

Seneca Falls will now begin the process of developing a Strategic Investment Plan to revitalize its downtown with up to $300,000 in planning funds from the $10 million DRI grant. A Local Planning Committee made up of municipal representatives, community leaders, and other stakeholders will lead the effort, supported by a team of private sector experts and state planners.

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MAAC, Medina firefighters put out red barrels for annual toy drive

Photos courtesy of Sherry Tuohey: Medina firefighters were at the United Methodist Church this morning to pick up 32 red barrels to placed in the community. Pictured, from left, include: Jacob Crooks, Steve Miller, Tim Miller, Adam Vanderheite, Chris Seefeldt, Aaron McKenzie, Bob Urtel and Cody Doran.

Posted 4 November 2019 at 1:26 pm

Press Release, Medina Area Association of Churches

Firefighters Adam Vanderheite and Steve Miller load a Medina ambulance for Red Barrel deliveries.

MEDINA – Firefighters this morning delivered 32 red barrels to locations throughout Medina and Knowlesville.

The MAAC bright red barrels have been placed in local churches, banks, the YMCA, Lee- Whedon Memorial Library, and many businesses throughout the community. Donations of new toys, games, puzzles, books and gifts for teenagers are greatly appreciated.

The MAAC (Medina Area Association of Churches) Christmas program serves children up to age 18, their parents/guardians, and senior citizens age 62-plus.

Families may apply for holiday assistance at Calvary Tabernacle Assembly of God Church, 324 Catherine St., from 10 a.m. to noon on Nov. 7 and Nov. 14, and from 5 to 7 p.m. Nov. 12 and Nov. 19 at St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1355 West Ave., Nov.12 and Nov.19, 10:00am-noon.

Applicants must bring proof of household (birth certificates, Social Security cards); proof of residence (gas, electric, phone, or water bill); and proof of income (Social Services award letter, SSD or SSI award letter, SNAP letter, or recent pay stubs).

Last year we served 250 individuals throughout the Medina community. This included 136 children, their parents/guardians, and 26 senior citizens.

The children receive age appropriate gifts and everyone receives warm hats, mittens or gloves, and socks. Boxes are also packed with Christmas dinner which consists of a ham, potatoes, stuffing, vegetables, and dessert. Other various food items are also included.

This year the MAAC Christmas Program will have a peanut butter and jelly drive. Donations may be dropped off at Lee Whedon Memorial Library, 620 West Ave. Medina.

Christmas boxes will be delivered on December 14th between 9:00am-noon by our local fire departments.

Sherry Tuohey, chairperson says “this community tradition began many years ago as a toy drive by the Medina fire department. Today with their assistance and many dedicated volunteers throughout the community we continue to help make Christmas a brighter holiday for those less fortunate than ourselves.”

Cash donations noted “Christmas Box Program” can be mailed to MAAC, 536 Orient Street, Medina, NY 14103.

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Treasure Island remains popular fundraiser for hospital

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 3 November 2019 at 8:19 am

Nearly 250 attend event at Sacred Heart Club

Photos by Tom Rivers

MEDINA – It was a sold-out event Saturday night at the Sacred Heart Club in medina for the 26^thannual Treasure Island fundraiser for Medina Memorial Hospital (Orleans Community Health). Pat Vader, an executive assistant at the hospital, is dressed a pirate and sells “Lucky Cork” tickets to Mark Follman and Cindy Perry.

The Lucky Cork is a popular spot. With each $20 ticket there is a bottle of wine and a chance for other valuable certificates for prizes and services. There were about 100 Lucky Cork tickets.

Wes Pickreign, a retired Medina school principal, served as emcee of the event, which included dinner at Sacred Heart and a chance to bid on numerous items. The hospital was hoping to top the $40,000 fundraising record. Proceeds are going to additional surgical services at Medina Memorial.

Andrew Meier, a former Medina mayor, served as honorary chairman of the event. He said Treasure Island supports “a vital community asset.”

Not only is Medina Memorial a major employer in the community, but it also is a factor people consider when moving into a community. They want a hospital close by, said Meier, an attorney.

Medina Memorial has made investments in its core mission of providing healthcare, often in an emergency situation.

“When you need it, it’s great to know it’s there,” Meier said about the hospital. “It’s accessible and the care is always spot on. We’re greeted by familiar faces and they always put us at ease.”

Heather Smith, executive director of Orleans Community Health Foundation, thanks the many supporters for the event on Saturday. The Foundation organizes Treasure Island.

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Day of the Dead is a spirited celebration in Medina

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 2 November 2019 at 2:58 pm

Photos by Tom Rivers

MEDINA – Crevan Ulrich, 4, of Medina is on his father Jeremy’s shoulders during the Day of the Dead Celebration in Medina on Friday evening. Crevan is joined by his grandmother, Cindy Tracey of Sanborn, and mother, Kate Tracey.

The Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council, Medina Business Association, Orleans County YMCA and Mariachi De Oro worked together on the big event which was in medina’s downtown in the afternoon before a parade to the YMCA at 6 p.m.

Jeremy Ulrich dressed up for the occasion, including with temporary tattoos and specialty contact lenses.

The Day of the Dead Celebration is a time of joyful remembrance of deceased loved ones, filled with an array of colors, scents, sounds and stories. Centered around the Christian observance of All Saints and All Souls Days on November 1 and 2, the celebration includes images and ideas about the roles of ancestors in our lives, that trace back to Mexico’s indigenous peoples.

Traditionally, people believe that this is the one time of the year when souls can return to earth for a day and commune with their families and friends.

Musicians from March Time Marchers joined dancers from Mariachi Del Oro at the start of the parade on West Avenue. Then headed to Pearl Street and then to the YMCA.

The two puppets towered more than 10 feet. They were nimble on their feet during the parade.

At the YMCA there was an ofrenda or home altar, which included bright aromatic marigolds, with petals forming a path to lead the souls home. Candles give welcoming lights and incense gives additional guidance and guards against unfriendly spirits. Photos, mementos and favorite foods of loved ones are placed on the altar.

The band Conjunto Clásico performed traditional Mexican music, which had the crowd dancing.

This group dances at the Y where Mexican food and beverages were available.

To see a video of the parade on West Avenue, click here.

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Hard work, community support keys to Medina Marching Band’s success

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 28 October 2019 at 10:52 pm

Provided photos from Wendi Pencille: Some of the Medina Marching Band leaders accept the first place Governor’s Cup on Sunday night during the New York State Field Band Conference Championship at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse. The two adults are Chris and Beth Calhoun, NYSFBC 2019 inductees into the NYSFBC Hall of Fame. The students from left are Margaret Klotzbach, Miranda Zelazny, Jada Draper, Lacey Kenward and McKenna Callard.

Trenton Crews, top, is thrilled with the band’s victory on Sunday.

SYRACUSE – The Medina Marching Band is the state champion for the first time since 2013. Medina had the top score in the Small School 1 Division on Sunday at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse. Medina’s 91.6 score was higher than seven other bands in SS1.

The Mustangs won all six captions or categories that make up the score – “That’s unheard of,” said Jim Steele, the band director.

The band this season performed to a program titled, “Walk the Path.” Medina had top marks in the competition for Ensemble Music Performance, Ensemble Visual Performance, General Effect Music, General Effect Visual, Individual Field Music Performance and Individual Field Visual Performance.

The band was second or third from 2014 to 2018, before bringing home the sliver-plated Governor’s Cup on Sunday.

Steele praised the 115 students who are in the marching band. Of those band members, 40 percent are in the band for the first time.

Some of the band members started reading through music for the fall show back in June. Some band members, the drumline and those who play the wind instruments, started practicing in early July, and then there was band camp during the third week in July.

After that, the full band and colorguard practiced three days a week – Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday – through the summer and the first two months of the school year.

“There is a tradition here, there is no doubt about it,” Steele said. “The kids like to be part of something bigger than themselves.”

Medina puts up some of the highest scores, even those from much larger schools. Medina is actually the fifth smallest school district out of the 53 schools at the New York State Field Band Conference Championship.

Sunday’s victory was Medina’s 14^thstate championship. Medina won five straight years, from 2009 to 2013, before taking the title on Sunday.

“Our emphasis is not winning at all costs,” Steele said. “It’s building better young adults and still be entertaining.”

The band is fortunate to have such a supportive booster program and school administration, he said.

This season was Medina’s 53rd time competing as a marching band and Sunday was the Mustangs’ 43rd appearance in the New York State Field Band Conference Championship.

These Mustang band members include Margaret Klotzbach, Lily Kiebala, Mirana Zelazny, Mary Flores, Jada Draper, Grace Cook, Lacey Kenward, Trenton Crews and Reagan Wilkins.

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Medina dedicates Marcia Tuohey Way, new road at Business Park

Provided photos: Marcia Tuohey’s family gathers by the sign for Marcia Tuohey Way. From left include Kim Tuohey, Barbara Waters, Charles Touhey, Craig Tuohey, Cal Tuohey and Jackson Tuohey. Craig, Charles and Cal are Marcia’s sons. Kim is married to Charles, and Barbara is Marcia’s twin sister. Marcia Tuohey Way leads into the Medina Business Park off Bates Road, across from Western New York Energy.

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 28 October 2019 at 6:34 pm

Marcia Tuohey

MEDINA – Village officials joined Marcia Tuohey’s family and friends in dedicating “Marcia Tuohey Way” at the Medina Business Park this morning.

Tuohey served as a village trustee, mayor and then Orleans County legislator. She was instrumental in developing the Medina Business Park off Bates Road in the 1980s. Tuohey pushed to bring infrastructure to the Business Park and also welcomed its first tenants.

The site continues to grow, with Takeform doing a recent expansion, Pride Pak building a new vegetable processing and packaging facility, and a new hotel currently under construction alog Maple Ridge Road.

“Today we recognize Marcia’s contributions not only to the Village of Medina but also to the Medina Business Park and the Orleans Economic Development Agency,” said Mayor Mike Sidari. “We recognize that this street is the gateway to the Business Park and with it comes out hopes for new development and more prosperity for the area. It is fitting to honor Marcia in this way.”

After Tuohey retired as an elected official, she served on the Village Planning Board and was the county’s representative on the Board of Directors for the Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp. She passed away on Aug. 7, 2014.

“My mother would be very proud to receive this recognition,” Cal Tuohey said about the road naming “This is a great tribute for her and our family. Mom loved Medina and did her best to make it a better place. If she were here today she would be both humbled and delighted by this honor.”

Jim Whipple, chief executive officer of the Orleans Economic Development Agency, said the Medina Business Park has been a great asset for attracting and retaining companies in the county.

“We are standing at ground zero where it all started, where her vision of an industrial park began,” Whipple said at today’s dedication. “As Marcia’s vision becomes a reality I want her family to know what an inspiration and driving force she was both to me personally and to our agency.”

Marcia Tuohey’s friends and family briefly placed one her hats on top of the sign of the roadway bearing her name during a dedication ceremony this morning. Tuohey was known for being an impeccable dresser capped with her fancy hats.

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Medina Marching Band wins state championship

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 27 October 2019 at 11:06 pm

Photos courtesy of Kelly Kiebala: The Medina Marching Band is shown performing at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse this evening. The Mustang band was crowned state champion in the Small Schools I Division.

SYRACUSE – The Medina Marching Band is a 2019 state champion. The Mustang band won the Small Schools 1 Division in today’s New York State Field Band Conference Championship at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse.

Medina scored 91.6, which topped the others bands in the division, including last year’s champ Malverne from Long Island (85.2), East Syracuse-Minoa (88.7), New Hartford (87.2), Central Square (87.0), Mohonasen (85.4), East Irondequoit (83.9), and Oswego (83.2).

Medina finished second in 2018. The band this season performed to a program titled, “Walk the Path.” This is Medina’s 53rd season competing as a marching band and today was the Mustangs’ 43rd appearance in the New York State Field Band Conference Championship.

Orleans Hub will have more on the state champions on Monday.

Click here to see photos of the band from its home show on Sept. 21 during the Fall Festival of Bands.

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Parade of Lights welcomes entries for Nov. 30 event in Medina

Photos by Tom Rivers: Takeform repeated as the grand champion in the 10th annual Parade of Lights in the 2018 parade. The Medina business created a float with a Tropical Christmas theme. There were 45 entries in last year’s 10th anniversary parade.

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 27 October 2019 at 6:02 pm

MEDINA – The Committee for the Parade of Lights urges local businesses and organizations to enter a float in the Parade of Lights on Nov. 30. This will be the 11^thyear for the parade, which follows on the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

Participants are encouraged to send in an entry form to ensure a position in the parade, which starts at 6 p.m. at the Olde Pickle Factory on Park Avenue and continues through the downtown. The deadline to enter is Nov. 25. (Parade entry forms are available at www.christmasinmedina.com.)

The parade is the culmination of a daylong celebration in downtown Medina, sponsored by the Medina Business Association and the Village’s Tourism Committee. Some of the activities include a noon-time parade on Main Street with Santa, a 5K race in the morning and numerous other events.

This year’s edition of the parade includes music at Rotary Park by Prime Time Brass from Churchville at 5 p.m. and the Community Tree Lighting ceremony at 5:30, followed by a fireworks display by Young Explosives.

“This year there are a few surprises that we’re sure will delight the crowd,” said Jim Hancock, the parade chairman.

The parade is adding DownBeat Percussion, which is a regular performer at the Buffalo Bills home games.

The parade route also has been lengthened. Instead of ending at NAPA Parts, the parade will extend to Hartway Motors. This will give additional viewing for the crowds on Main Street. There also will be a spot for handicapped parking and viewing in the Five Star Bank parking lot. Space is limited, but will the additions allow an opportunity for better parking and viewing of the parade.

Organizers are also looking for volunteers to be parade marshals. Anyone interested in helping can call Hancock at (585) 798-2118.

The Lyndonville Fire Department won Best in Class for the fourth consecutive year in 2018.

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Medina, Albion merchants give kids an early Halloween treat

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 26 October 2019 at 9:01 am

Beggar’s Night draws several hundred in 2 villages

Photos by Tom Rivers

Twin brothers Logan (right) and Landon Scribner, 8, of Medina are dressed as Pokemon characters while headed for treats at Main Street TV & Appliance in Medina on Friday evening during the annual Beggar’s Night put on by the Medina Business Association.

Nearly 1,000 kids come out for the event, where downtown merchants hand out candy and treats.

Abbygal Fuller is dressed as a clown and her sister Grace Fuller is a scarecrow. They were passing out candy at Della’s Chocolates, which is run by their mother, Susan Fuller.

“I get to see all the children in their costumes and I get to dress up myself,” Grace said.

Fitz William “Mr. Fitz” dressed up for the occasion. Mr. Fitz is a 5-year-old English springer spaniel. He is owned by Kelly Herbert, left. Bonnie Heck, right, is the owner of Herbalty Cottage. Her husband Tom Heck is in back.

Herbert recently moved to Medina from New Jersey. She said she enjoys the quaint little town, and the many fun activities in the downtown.

“I love that the town and the businesses support the events,” she said.

Kasey Sprester, left, of Middleport holds her 6-month-old son, Mathew, while being greeted by Cindy Robinson, owner of the English Rose Tea Shoppe.

Kathy Blackburn dressed as Belle from Beauty and the Beast and greeted children and their families at the start of the Beggar’s Night route. Blackburn always dresses up as a character to kick off Beggar’s Night.

Madelyn Hill of Medina is delighted to get so much candy before Halloween. She dressed up as a skeleton.

There were a variety of costumes on display, with a dinosaur inflatable very popular.

The Albion Merchants Association and Village of Albion also put on their Beggar’s Night celebration on Friday. Albion Agencies was among the many businesses and organizations to decorate their store and hand out treats.

The staff at Roots always wears costumes for Beggar’s Night. This year they went with a Willy Wonka theme. Pictured from left are Jenna O’Connor, Lisa Heidemann, owner Amber Mogle, and Gretta Smith.

Mitzi Peglow, owner of Orleans Travel, and her daughter Stephanie Spencer hand out candy.

There was also a witches dance on Main Street in Albion.

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Medina band earns 1st in last competition before championships

Posted 21 October 2019 at 9:14 am

Courtesy of Medina Marching Band

The Medina Mustang Marching Band traveled to Orchard Park on Saturday for the last competition before the championships. There were 14 bands from across Western New York and Pennsylvania that competed in six different classifications.

In SS1, Medina earned first place with a score of 87.85 followed by East Irondequoit in 2nd with 83.80 and Oswego in 3rd with 82.35.

Other 1st place winners were Leroy in SS3 with 71.3; Greece in LS3 with 79.60; Northwestern in SS2 with 79.55; Orchard Park in LS2 with 83.75 and Jamestown in National with 89.0.

This week coming up before the Dome is busy with practices and a special Senior Recognition Night on Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the Medina High School. You can see a performance of the show. Each senior will be given recognition for their years of dedication to the band.

Championships at the Carrier Dome are Sunday, Oct. 27. A total of 53 bands will perform in competition starting at 8 a.m. and finishing at 10 p.m.

The event is broken down into 3 shows with LS3 and LS2 classes performing from 8 a.m. to noon followed by a retreat and awards for that group. The SS2 and SS3 classes perform from 12:45 p.m. to 5 p.m. followed by retreat and awards for that group.

The SS1 and National classes perform from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. followed by retreat and awards. Medina will perform at 7:15 p.m.

There is a new Dome policy for security purposes which prohibits backpacks and purses. Only clear plastic vinyl or PVC not exceeding 12″x6″x12″ are allowed. A gallon size plastic bag is acceptable.

There is still room on the spectator bus to the Dome on Sunday. For more information, contact Jim Steele, band director, at 585-317-9389.

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4 more sites added to Medina Sandstone Hall of Fame

Photos by Tom Rivers: Medina Sandstone Hall of Fame Committee members Jim Hancock, left, and Don Colquhoun unveil the four new inductees into the Medina Sandstone Hall of Fame on Thursday afternoon. The Hall of Fame now has 29 inductees. It was established in 2013 and is located inside Medina City Hall. The plaques are made courtesy of Takeform in Medina.

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 19 October 2019 at 10:09 am

Mansion in Erie, churches in Palmyra, Geneva and Rome, NY added to distinguished list

MEDINA – The Medina Sandstone Hall of Fame inducted a mansion in Erie, Pa. and three upstate churches into the shrine for spectacular sandstone structures.

Since the hall of Fame was established in 2013, the inductees now include 29 sites and 59 nominations.

Representatives from the four new Hall of Fame sites attended an induction program on Thursday afternoon at Medina City Hall, where the Hall of Fame is located in the main meeting room.

David Miller, president of the Sandstone Society, thanked the buildings’ owners for their care of the structures, which were all built before 1900. The group is sitting by a wall with photos of past Medina mayors.

Jim Hancock, David Miller and Don Colquhoun are all members of the Hall of Fame Committee. They travelled 700-800 miles to visit the sites.

“You have all lovingly taken care of these wonderful sandstone buildings,” Hancock said. “I can guarantee none of you were there when they were built.”

The new inductees have tackled ambitious restoration projects to keep the buildings going for years to come.

“We’re very proud of you for maintaining your buildings,” Hancock told them honorees.

The 2019 Hall of Fame Class includes (with the writeups from the Sandstone Society):

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 149 Genesee St., Geneva, NY

Anchoring the south end of Geneva’s Genesee Park Historic District, the massive St. Peter’s Episcopal Church is a Medina sandstone, Gothic Revival style church designed by the prominent architect Richard Upjohn. This elegant stone church was constructed during 1868-1870 with funds raised locally by voluntary contribution.

The church features a steeply sloped gable roof, and a rose window above the Gothic-arched entrance which is framed with gray limestone trim. Twenty years later in 1878, Upjohn’s son, Richard M. Upjohn, designed a massive, four-story, square bell tower at the northwest corner of the church. The Gothic inspired bell tower features tall, arched louvers with stone trim; bold corner buttresses; a polygonal bastion on its northwest corner and an octagonal spire pierced by turrets.

In 1986, the parish began a restoration of the buildings to restore the original Gothic splendor of the church. Today the interior of the church survives virtually intact with carved trusses supporting the paneled ceiling; original pews arranged around a center aisle; and delicate stenciling.

Representatives from St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Geneva include Joseph Marino, the Rev. Jim Adams and Charles Bauder. Marino and Bauder are long-time members of the church.

Zion Episcopal Church, 120 East Main St., Palmyra

The Zion Episcopal Church congregation in Palmyra, Wayne County, was founded in 1804. The present church was built in 1872 by one of the leading East coast architects, Emyln T. Little. It was designed in the Late Gothic Revival style, an architectural movement popular in the Western world that began in the late 1740s in England.

It is built of Medina sandstone with limestone trim. It’s roof features polychrome slate shingles. The congregation is justifiably proud of the care that has been taken over the years to be true to the original design and structure of such a beautiful edifice.

Located on a prominent street corner in the heart of the historic village of Palmyra, the church was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1996. In 2009, it was included in the Palmyra Village Historic District, and draws many visitors to the local thriving community.

The Zion Episcopal Church in Palmyra was represented at the induction ceremony by church members, from left: Cindy Lehmkuhl, Elaine Bonafede and Diane Peters. Bonafede and Peters are members of the vestry. Lehmkuhl serves in the church’s archives committee with Bonafede.

St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church, 200 North James St., Rome

With a history of worship beginning in 1837, St. Peter’s Parish erected the present church and laid the cornerstone on May 21, 1895 and it was consecrated on Oct. 24, 1897. It is extremely rare for a new Catholic church to be consecrated on the date it is ready for services, giving St. Peter’s a most unique history.

Designed by the famed architect, Archimedes Russell of Syracuse, this church is a wonderful example of the use of Medina sandstone. The architectural style is Victorian Gothic. The exterior is Medina sandstone of the kind known as rock-face ashlar, laid with broken joints. The trimmings are of brown sandstone.

This beautiful church has stood the test of time for almost 125 years and will continue to be a beacon in the community for decades to come.

Representatives of St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church in Rome thanked the Hall of Fame Committee for the recognition. Father Sean O’Brien praised the church’s parishioners and a previous priest for a big restoration project at the church in 2005. Father O’Brien is joined by the church’s maintenance director, Mark LaGasse, and office manager, Sharon Hansen. Jim Hancock is at right.

Watson-Curtze Mansion (Thomas B. Hagen History Center), 356 West 6th St., Erie, Pa.

This massive, three and one-half story Medina sandstone mansion and it’s adjacent carriage house were built in 1891-1892 by Harrison Watson, the founder of the Watson roofing paper company.

Architects Green and Wicks of Buffalo designed a unique, 24-room, Richardsonian Romanesque home with ornate stone exterior, short corner towers, rounded conservatory and decorative porte cochere.

The home was sold to Frederick Curtze, a prominent banker and patron of the arts, in 1923. After his death in 1941, the mansion was donated to the Erie school district which established a museum and planetarium.

Later, merging with the Erie Historical Society, the mansion became a regional history museum and in 2014, a major repurposing and renovation of the buildings created the Thomas B. Hagen History Complex that the community enjoys today.

Surrounded by lovely “Millionaire’s Row” homes, the mansion was, and still is, the most impressive and beautiful on West 6th Street.

Since the Hall of Fame was established in 2013, 29 sites have been inducted and 59 have been nominated.

Other sites nominated in 2019, but not yet inducted, include: Eberhardt Mansion in Buffalo, Blessed Sacrament Roman Catholic Church in Buffalo, Trinity Episcopal Church in Buffalo, Old Stone Warehouse/Skalny Building in Rochester, St. Ann Catholic Church in Erie, Pa.; and St. Paul Catholic Church in Erie, Pa.

Jeff Sherry, museum educator at the Historical Society of Erie County, accepts the award for the Thomas B. Hagen History Center, a new member of the Medina Sandstone Hall of Fame. He is congratulated by Don Colquhoun of the Sandstone Society.

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Andrew Meier serving as honorary chairman of hospital benefit

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 16 October 2019 at 10:57 am

Photo by Tom Rivers: Andrew Meier is pictured on March 28, 2016, while leading his last meeting as Medina’s mayor.

MEDINA – A Medina attorney is stepping out of his normal realm to become the honorary chair of Orleans Community Health’s Treasure Island.

Treasure Island will celebrate its 26th year on Nov. 2 at Sacred Heart Club as the annual fundraiser for Medina Memorial Hospital (Orleans Community Health).

“Our hospital is essential to not just the physical and emotional health of the community, but also to its economy and sustainability in the long term,” said Andrew Meier, a partner in the law firm of Webster, Schubel and Meier. “It’s a partner to our Medina Ambulance Service. It’s a critical community amenity that can help attract new residents and businesses.”

Meier continued to say Medina Memorial Hospital has made great strides in the last few years, and Treasure Island will help the hospital grow even further into its essential role.

This growth is already being noticed with the announcement by the Orleans Community Health Foundation that three new doctors have joined the hospital and proceeds from Treasure Island will go toward the purchase of equipment for these doctors, all of whom are able to perform surgical procedures.

The first new doctor is Anees Fazili, a urologist from Rochester who also has an office in Batavia.

The other two doctors are twin podiatrists, Peter and Paul Stasko, who are affiliated with Rochester Regional Health.

“I’m honored to be just one concerned citizen among many others who support this event and the work of healthcare workers in our home town,” Meier said.

Community support is vital to the success of this event, said Heather Smith, executive director of Orleans Community Health Foundation.

“This event cannot be successful without community support,” Smith said. “Treasure Island provides a unique marketing opportunity, touching several hundred individuals, while allowing the community to see donors’ investment back into their hometown healthcare system. Orleans Community Health exists to be your community-focused medical center, providing you and your loved ones with quality services here at home.”

The public can donate to Treasure Island in a variety of ways – by offering an auction item, gift certificate or raffle basket; by purchasing an ad in the program; by making a cash donation; or by purchasing tickets.

Individuals can purchase tickets online or pre-register for the event by clicking here.

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