Village Board not on same page for housing truck, putting it into service

Photos by Tom Rivers: The Medina Village Board met on Monday at the Shelby Town Hall and discussed several issues. Pictured from left include Trustee Deborah Padoleski, Trustee Jess Marciano, Village Clerk/Treasurer Jada Burgess, Mayor Marguerite Sherman, Trustee Mark Prawel, Trustee Scott Bieliski and Village Attorney Matt Brooks.

MEDINA – A new ladder truck for the Medina Fire Department may not find a long-term home in Medina.

Three out of five Village Board members said they are open to selling the new $1.7 million truck which is too big for the existing fire hall.

Trustee Scott Bieliski said the truck turns into a $4 million expense when financing and an addition to the fire hall are all factored in. He said village taxpayers are already overtaxed to take on the added expense.

He would like to reach out to a broker to see what the truck would command on the market and instead have Medina purchase a smaller used ladder truck that would fit in the fire hall, or go without a ladder truck and rely on one from the neighboring Shelby Volunteer Fire Company.

Village Trustee Mark Prawel said taxpayers are already too stressed to take on payments for a new ladder truck and an addition to the fire hall to house it. Trustee Scott Bieliski, right, wants the village to look at selling its new ladder truck and finding a smaller used one that would fit in the existing fire hall.

Bieliski and trustees Deborah Padoleski and Mark Prawel all want to hold off on putting the new truck into service to maximize its value. Once it’s been used by the village, the value could significantly drop.

Village Attorney Matt Brooks advised the board that having the truck in Medina and not using it could open the village to a lawsuit. It could be considered negligence to have the equipment and not use it when there is an emergency.

The truck is currently in North Tonawanda after being built in Wisconsin by Pierce Manufacturing. The truck is being outfitted with specialized gear. Fire Chief Steve Cooley this morning said Medina firefighters are planning to begin training on the new truck in Medina on Feb. 13.

The truck doesn’t have a place to stay yet. Village officials are considering the compost facility on North Gravel Road, the DPW garage on East Avenue, or a lease from a private property owner.

The truck could also be kept outside next to the fire hall but wouldn’t be able to have water in the truck in case it freezes in the cold weather.

Mayor Marguerite Sherman and Trustee Jess Marciano said they are both committed to keeping the ladder truck and want to put a one-bay addition on the fire hall that is expected to cost $1.1 to $1.4 million.

Sherman said the village should spend $4,800 with an engineering firm to get more specific costs for the addition, figures that are needed for Medina to pursue grants and financing for the project. But she has been unable to get a full majority vote from the board to pay a firm.

“It is my charge to come up with a feasible way to get the truck and the addition,” she said. “I’m doing everything I can to make it affordable for the village.”

Padoleski said selling the truck is “a last-ditch effort” to spare Medina from taking on more debt.

“The taxpayers are not interested in buying this truck,” Padoleski said. “It’s too big and too much money.  Not enough forethought was put into this.”

The annual debt payment for the truck will be about $130,000 over the next 20 years. Medina is scheduled to sign off on the financing Jan. 26 through the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The USDA is giving Medina the $1,768,000 loan with a 4 percent interest rate.

Trustee Prawel also said he hears from constituents that the truck is too much of an expense for residents already overwhelmed with bills.

“We got people who can’t pay their water bill,” Prawel said.

He has been on the board for almost two years. He said the fire truck and addition have dominated village board discussions, preventing the board from other issues, such as upgrades to water and sewer infrastructure, and sidewalk replacements.

The board didn’t fill a position in the DPW in the current budget to try to minimize a tax increase.

“Our DPW is strained,” Prawel said. “We’re putting patches upon patches.”

Mayor Sherman said there could be unintended consequences to not having a ladder truck: higher insurance costs to residents and businesses. She said Fire Chief Cooley is trying to find out how Medina’s ISO ratings would be affected without a ladder truck in the village.

The Insurance Services Office (ISO) rates a community’s fire protection capabilities from 1 (the best) to 10 (the worst). A lower score typically means lower-cost insurance.

The mayor said the ISO information should be available soon to help the board make a decision on the full impact of keeping the ladder truck and having it in a new addition, or not having the truck and what affect that would have on fire insurance rates in the village.

Trustee Marciano said she wants to see the board come together soon and move forward rather than remaining at an impasse.

“I want to see us work toward making a decision rather than no decision,” Marciano said. “This inaction will get us nowhere.”

Petitions signed by at least 100 registered voters are due by Feb. 10

MEDINA – The Village of Medina has three positions up in the next election, March 18.

 The election will be at the Senior Citizen Center, 615 West Avenue, from noon to 9 p.m.

 The positions up for election include the mayor (currently Marguerite Sherman), and two village trustees (currently held by Deborah Padoleski and Mark Prawel).

 The petitions to run for one of the positions can be obtained at the Village Clerk’s Office at 119 Park Ave. or online at the New York State Elections website, Petition Information (click here) or you can see a Village Independent Nominating Petition by clicking here.

 Candidates need their petitions to be signed by at least 100 registered voters in the village. The first day a registered voter can sign an independent nominating petition was December 30.

The first day to file the independent nominating petition is February 3. Petitions must be filed no later than 5 p.m. on Feb. 10 at the Village Clerk’s Office.

Photos by Ginny Kropf: Sharon Breckenridge, a longtime volunteer at MAAC’s Thrift Depot, accepts a box of winter clothing collected by Medina Police Department and Orleans County YMCA.

MEDINA – Personnel from the Medina Police Department and Orleans County YMCA recently came up with the idea to join their forces and collect warm clothing for people in need during the cold winter season.

Medina police officer Brandon Brown is a cousin of YMCA director Andrew Houseman’s fiancée, and the two are friends. They recently thought it would be nice for the two organizations to build a partnership with each other to help the community, Houseman said. They began by holding a food drive, but with the cold weather this winter, Houseman said they decided to collect warm clothing through December.

On Monday morning, Brown and Houseman collected the more than 75 coats, hats, mittens and scarves which had been donated to their two agencies.

“The first day we posted the drive on Facebook, someone came in with a large bag full of hats, scarves and gloves,” Brown said. “It is nice to have a place like the Y where people could drop off their donations. It’s a great goal to have to help people in this cold weather. I remember as a kid how I liked to play in the snow, and hopefully these clothes will help keep those kids warm who want to play in the snow, but don’t have warm clothing.”

At the MAAC Thrift Depot, Sue Metzo, president of MAAC, said they were thankful for the donations.

“What we don’t use, we help other agencies with,” she said. “Our winter stuff goes fast.”

Houseman said this is the first year for the clothing drive between the YMCA and Police Department, but they plan to make it an annual event.

Medina police officer Brandon Brown and YMCA director Andrew Houseman stand next to a box of warm clothing they have collected for MAAC’s Thrift Depot on Starr Street.

Former Medina HS will host 20 artworks with 10 to 12 others in Medina

Photos by Ginny Kropf: A handful of guests enjoyed brunch at the Triennial Hub on Saturday and participated in a discussion on ideas for Medina’s upcoming inaugural Triennial this year. From left are Karin Laansoo, co-curator; Federico Rosario, Community Engagement and Program coordinator for the Triennial Hub; and Shirley Verrico, operations manager.

MEDINA – The Medina Triennial hosted a brunch and informative session Saturday afternoon at their hub at 345 North Main St., for the purpose of explaining the features of the initiative, getting ideas and to share the Triennial’s goals and opportunities for work and volunteers during 2026.

The brunch was hosted in collaboration with the Medina Area Partnership, Medina Railroad Museum and Orleans County YMCA. Leading the discussion were Federico Rosario, Community Engagement and Program Coordinator; Shirley Verrico, operations manager; and Karin Laansoo, co-artistic director with Kari Conte.

They explained the reason Medina was chosen for this inaugural initiative, scheduled to take place June 6 through Sept. 7 in various locations in Medina, was because Medina embodies the convergence of industry, agriculture, immigration and civic life. The town is also rich in cultural and ecological significance, situated between Buffalo and Rochester and surrounded by farmland, wetlands and canal infrastructure.

When the New York Power Authority and New York State Canal Corporation met to discuss what to do with an aging waterway, they began planning this event as a broader effort to revitalize the canal. They agreed 150% on choosing Medina for the location, said Verrico. She also added that Medina has an amazingly active antique community.

“We agree with their choice 200% and I hope everyone in Medina does as well,” Laansoo said. “I was so happy when people at the community brunch applauded and agreed with Medina being the best possible choice.”

“One thing about Medina is it has a lot of landmarks,” Rosario said. “And the canal has a strong presence in the area, with Medina Falls, the aqueduct and the culvert on Culvert Road.

Laansoo said the question gets asked a lot during meetings when they introduce the triennial and explain where Medina is.

“We usually say that historically Medina was the widest point in the Erie Canal where boats could turn around,” she said. “Medina has a lot going on for a village of 6,000 people – a well-preserved Main Street, it is rich in culture and ecology, surrounded by farmland, wetlands and infrastructure. Obviously, an amazing community, as well. “

Also announced on Saturday was the creation of a book club, which will meet every third Saturday, with the first one scheduled Jan. 23. The first book chosen is The Mezzanine by Nicholas Baker, and copies were available on Saturday.

Guests take part in a discussion on Saturday at the Triennial Hub on North Main Street, sharing ideas and asking questions about the first-time Triennial expected to bring 50,000 people to Medina from June to September.

A highlight of Saturday’s meeting was the announcement of a movie to be filmed by a renowned Mexican artist and composer. Filming will be on March 28 at Medina High School, 324 Catherine St. The are looking for singers, movers, vocal enthusiasts and attentive listeners. All voices, bodies and abilities are welcome to audition. No experience is needed. Applications must be submitted by Jan. 30 by e-mailing info@medinatriennial.org.

In addition, a plea was issued for housing for artists, preferably within walking distance from downtown and the high school, mostly in April and May.

In all, 400 volunteers from the community are going to be needed, including guides who will be trained to help visitors engage with the artwork. Opening hours for sites hosting artwork are still being finalized, but public spaces with artworks will, of course, be accessible 24/7, Laansoo added.

Twenty artists will show their work at the old Medina High School, while others will be at 10 to 12 other sites, all within walking distance of downtown. Light renovation and painting at the high school have already begun, and thanks was issued to Roger and Heather Hungerford for their generosity in allowing use of the building. Most of the artwork will be on the second floor, with some on the first floor as well.

Types of art represented will include a large variety of different mediums, such as video, sound, paintings, photos, textiles, sculptures, prints and even a floating garden.

One artist who has already been here is Mary Mattingly, who will develop a garden on a floating barge. The barge arrived in the fall and work will continue on it when the water returns to the canal this spring.

Among those who attended Saturday’s brunch were Medina historian Todd Bensley and his wife Nicole.

“This is a very exciting opportunity for Medina to showcase everything we have,” Todd said.

Funding for the Triennial comes from the New York Power Authority and the Canal Corporation, Laansoo explained. In essence, NYPA functions like a self-sustaining business, using its power generation and sales to fund operations, new projects and state initiatives, all without relying on state taxes.

“The Triennial still needs to fundraise quite a bit, because everything is very expensive and it is important for it to be free to the public, so we are working hard to get additional funds,” Laansoo said.

In closing Saturday’s event, Verrico said, “We want to be here for visitors. We want to collaborate with all of you. We know art. We don’t know Medina.”

Anyone with questions should e-mail Rosario at info@medinatriennial.org.

MEDINA – The Village of Medina will be hosting a major arts initiative this year, with 50,000 people expected to visit Medina to see works by 35 different artists showcased at 12 sites in the community.

The Medina Triennial is the first initiative of its kind in the region. It will feature artists from around the  world from June 6 to Sept. 7 to see the exhibits and public programs.

The Triennial welcomes the community to see how they can volunteer and be a part of the event. There will be a complimentary brunch and information session at the Triennial’s headquarters on Saturday  from 1 to 3 p.m. The Triennial “Hub” is located at 345 N Main St. (the former NAPA Auto Parts building).

To RSVP, contact info@medinatriennial.org or call (585) 590-9947.

“We’ll be answering frequently asked questions and announcing volunteer/employment opportunities in a very casual sit-down style conversation,” said Federico Rosario, Community Engagement & Programs Coordinator for the Triennial. “This event is an opportunity to hear about the Triennial’s goals and upcoming volunteer and work opportunities.”

The Triennial is an initiative of the New York Power Authority with funding from other sponsors, too.

Photo by Tom Rivers: The former Medina Savings and Loan, which has been a Generations Bank site since 2018, is now ESL Federal Credit Union, effective Jan. 1. The bank is located on Maple Ridge Road.

MEDINA – ESL Federal Credit Union is now officially open in Medina after acquiring the assets of Generations Bank.

The two organizations announced an acquisition deal in September 2024. Generations merged with the former Medina Savings & Loan in 2018.

Completion of the deal allows ESL to significantly grow its presence throughout Greater Rochester and Finger Lakes region, adding eight new locations.

ESL now has 33 full-service branches throughout the Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes region including a new branch presence in Cayuga, Orleans and Seneca counties while expanding its footprint in Ontario County. ESL now holds more than $9.8 billion in assets and has more than 1,000 employees.

“We’re excited to complete the acquisition of Generations Bank, marking a significant milestone for ESL and for the communities we serve,” said ESL President & CEO, Faheem Masood. “We look forward to building new relationships with employees, customers, local businesses and partners that are now part of our shared home. We also commit to investing in the people and places across Cayuga, Ontario, Orleans, and Seneca counties.”

Conversion of Generations accounts is expected to take place on Feb. 1. Post closing, the credit union membership grows to approximately 459,000 total members, and nearly 18,200 businesses.

The deal required regulatory approval from the Federal Deposit Insurance Company (FDIC), National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) and Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), with all regulators providing approval in 2025.

Before ending its presence in Medina, Generations Bank officials on oct. 21 presented $50,000 in donations to nine organizations in the community. The grant recipients included Community Action of Orleans and Genesee (Albion), East Shelby Volunteer Fire Company (Medina), Knights Kaderli Memorial Fund (Medina), The Lee Whedon Memorial Library (Medina), Medina Emergency Food Pantry (St. Peters Lutheran Church), Operation Honor (Medina), Orleans Community Health Foundation Inc. (Medina), Orleans County YMCA (Medina), and People for Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) of Orleans County (Albion).

Photos by Ginny Kropf: (Left) Retired TV personality Mike Randall, right, and Medina Theater owner Joe Cardone draw winning tickets for free prizes following Randall’s presentation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol on Friday night at the Medina Theater. (Right) Mike Randall portrayed the roles of characters from A Christmas Carol. He performed to a full house Friday night at Medina Theater.

MEDINA – The Medina Theater was packed Friday night for a performance by Mike Randall, who presented A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens.

The performance came about when Randall and theater owner Joe Cardone were having lunch. Randall and his wife Kathy had recently moved to Medina and he suggested doing a show to benefit local food pantries and Medina Area Association of Churches. He said that would be his gift to Medina.

Cardone agreed to donate use of the theater, and the rest is history. The show sold out a week in advance.

Jim Hancock, left, representing St. Peter’s Food Pantry, and Donna Poore, who heads the food pantry at The Vine, hold a tote of food items at the Medina Theater, which were donated by theater-goers Friday night. The food pantries shared the collection of food.

Attendees who brought in non-perishable food items or made a cash donation received a ticket for a drawing for various prizes, which included gift certificates, raffle baskets and a grand door prize of a flat screen TV, donated by local attorney Katherine Bogan.

A giant container of food was filled to overflowing and divided between the food pantries at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church and The Vine Church. Cash donations were given to MAAC. On Monday afternoon, Cardone and Randall presented a check for $2,230 to Sue Metzo, president of MAAC. Jim Hancock, treasurer of St. Peter’s Food Pantry, and Donna Poore, head of The Vine’s Food Pantry, both attended the presentation and will make arrangements to have the food items delivered to their churches.

“I can’t tell you what this means to us,” Metzo said.

“We especially need donations of groceries at this time of year, when people are running short,” Hancock said. “The amount of food collected was quite amazing. It was nice we could split it with The Vine.”

From left, Joe Cardone, owner of Medina Theater, and Mike Randall give a check for $2,230 to Sue Metzo, president of MAAC. Jim Hancock, treasurer of St. Peter’s food pantry, and Donna Poore, head of The Vine’s food pantry, will share the food items collected.

Friday’s entertainment began with an appearance of Medina High School’s A’Capella Select Choir. Members were appropriately dressed in 1800’s cloaks and hats, as they sang several Christmas songs.

Director Rachel Trillizio shared how thrilled they were to be able to perform for the community.

“We have already had a performance every day this week and have four more to go,” she said.

Randall first began impersonating Dickens’ characters in 2007 and continues to amaze audiences with his talent.

“I did a lot of research and how Dickens portrayed the different characters fascinated me,” Randall said. “I realized he wasn’t actually reading the book, he was performing the characters. I started studying the parts in November 2006, knowing I had my first performance scheduled for December 2007.

The A’Capella Select Choir, dressed in 1800s attire, sings a variety of Christmas songs for a packed house who attended Medina Theater to see Mike Randall’s presentation of A Christmas Carol.

The presentation by Randall on Friday night left the crowd in total amazement.

“It was magnificent,” said Cora Goyette, a newcomer to Medina. “I’m in awe he can remember all of that, and he delivered it so perfectly. We were totally entertained.”

One lady had seen him twice before and said it gets better every time.

Shirley Bright and Le Roy Neeper had also seen Randall’s performance before, but were delighted to see it again.

“And the theater has never looked more beautiful,” Neeper said of the Christmas decorations. “It was a wonderful evening.”

Georgia Thomas said she reads Dickens every Christmas.

“Mike performed it so beautifully,” she said. “All the inflections he used for different characters made them come so alive. I absolutely loved his performance. How fortunate we are to have all that talent in Medina.”

Rachel Trillizio, director of Medina High School’s A’Capella Choir,  tells the audience at the Medina Theater how happy they are to sing for the community. The Select Choir entertained Friday night prior to Mike Randall’s performance of A Christmas Carol, which benefited food pantries and MAAC in Medina.

This was the first time Kathy Blackburn had seen Randall and she said he was amazing.

“We couldn’t get over how he knew all those parts,” she said. “He moved from character to character and was able to memorize it all.”

In addition to 212 performances of A Christmas Carol since 2007, Randall has continued to present his critically acclaimed one-man portrayal of Mark Twain Live since 1972. Cardone said after the holidays, he might talk to Randall about doing that show at the Medina Theater.

Randall also performs with puppets, magic, ventriloquism and comedy as Mike Randall and Friends in local schools, libraries, festivals and family events all across Western New York.

Best-known as an on-air personality on WKBW-TV for 40 years, Randall retired in 2023. He was inducted into the Buffalo Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2017.

Photos and information courtesy of Medina Central School

MEDINA – For several years running, the Medina Teachers’ Association has embraced the spirit of “Movember” by growing mustaches, raising awareness, and generating essential funds for men’s health and mental wellness in Medina.

This November, despite a season filled with other school fundraisers (including the annual Helpful Harvest Food and Essentials Drive supporting MAAC), Medina’s dedicated staff came through once again. The men on staff grew out their mustaches throughout the month, while the entire team rallied with donations, encouragement, and momentum.

Joe Byrne, MTA president, presents a check to Nola Goodrich-Kresse, who accepted on behalf of the Orleans County Suicide Prevention Coalition.

The results were an incredible $1,200 raised for the Orleans County Suicide Prevention Coalition, marking the third consecutive year Medina has surpassed the $1,000 mark.

These generous donations will directly support next year’s Men’s Day Out event in Orleans County, an event that creates a welcoming space for men to come together and to support one another and learn life-saving tools while having fun.

MTA President and 8th-grade Social Studies teacher Joe Byrne shared his gratitude in a message to staff:

“Thank you to everyone who grew a mustache, donated, encouraged others, or helped spread the word. Your generosity and enthusiasm made this year’s campaign truly special. Because of all of you, we’re able to support the Orleans County Suicide Prevention Coalition and continue making a meaningful impact right here in our community. I’m deeply grateful for the kindness, humor, and heart our staff brings to Movember each year. This is a team effort, and once again, you’ve shown what can be accomplished when we come together.”

A special thank-you goes to Nola Goodrich-Kresse, who leads the coalition’s efforts, for her ongoing collaboration.

This annual tradition not only raises critical funds but also fosters camaraderie, humor, and a deeper sense of purpose among our staff, all while making a real difference in Orleans County.

Here’s to many more successful Movembers ahead!

Garden on municipal land would make site eligible for grant through Health Department

Photo by Tom Rivers: Megan Wakefield, leader of the Medina Community Garden, speaks during Monday’s Village Board meeting. Pictured, from right to left, include Medina Mayor Marguerite Sherman, Deputy Mayor Jess Marciano, Trustee Debbie Padoleski and Village Clerk/Treasurer Jada Burgess.

MEDINA – The Medina Community Garden had a successful first year in 2025 despite the drought-like conditions, said Megan Wakefield, leader of the garden.

The site was in a backyard on Bernzomatic Drive, on the east side of the village.  Wakefield said the garden produced crops despite a lack of rain for much of the growing season.

She would like to see the community garden in a more centrally located part of the village. She asked the Village Board to allow part of the green space on Park Avenue, between the village office and West Avenue.

Not only would that be in a more accessible location for the public, but Wakefield said it would also make the community garden eligible for grants through the local health departmet. To be eligible, the garden needs to be on municipal land, she said.

Mayor Merguerite Sherman commended wakefield for her efforts with the community garden, but the mayor said the village land by the village office is being eyed for an expanded parking lot especially if an addition in put on the fire hall at part of an existing parking lot.

Wakefield said she has scouted sites in the village for the garden that is on village-owned land, but 121 Park Ave. seems like the best location.

The grant from the health department could pay for raised beds, which Sherman and other Village Board members could make it easier to have the garden on village property.

Wakefield was asked about land by the compost facility and dog park on North Gravel Road, but she said that location would be too far for many community members.

She was also asked about village land behind the Medina Theater. Wakefield said she would look at it, including with the potential for raised beds.

Board members said they support the garden and want to try to find a suitable location.

Wakefield said the community garden can help many residents facing food insecurity.

Village Board still looking for spot to put new ladder truck with old compost facility, DPW garage and former Snappy site among options

Photos courtesy of Medina Fire Department: This photo from earlier this week shows the new ladder truck that is expected to be delivered in Medina next month. The quint truck has a 100-foot ladder and many other capabilities. Medina Fire Department officials visited the truck manufacturing site in Appleton, Wisconsin. They were there from Sunday through Wednesday.

MEDINA – The Village of Medina expects to take delivery of a new $1.7 million fire truck next month, but village officials still aren’t certain where the truck will be housed.

The quint ladder truck is too big to fit in the current fire hall on Park Avenue. The truck is taller than the current ladder truck. The current truck from 1996 has been declared surplus and will be sold by auction. The truck has been plagued by mechanical issues for several years.

The ladder is shown at extension during an inspection by Medina Fire Department officials.

That truck is 10 feet, 4 inches in height. The fire hall bay has a clear of 10 feet, 6 inches. The new truck is 13 feet high.

Medina Mayor Marguerite Sherman favors a one-bay addition on the current fire hall to accommodate the new truck, but she has been unable to get the majority of the board to agree on that addition. That project would be just over $1 million. The village may need to borrow $1.3 million for the addition.

Sherman said Medina is a strong candidate to receive a grant for up to $1 million in federal funds through for the project through the Community Development Block Grant program. She was advised by the village’s grant writer to get additional information for the grant on buying materials made in the United States for the addition. To do that study, getting cost estimates for “Buy America and Build America,” would cost $4,600.

Sherman was unable to get enough support from the board to spend the $4,600 to get those prices on American made products.

Trustee Scott Bieliski said $1.3 million for the one-bay addition seems out of whack and far too costly.

“I would never spend $1.3 million for what we’re getting or even remotely close to that,” he said.

Sherman said municipal projects tend to be much higher due to all the regulations and extra requirements.

Trustee Debbie Padoleski said the village can’t afford the new truck and the addition. She suggested at Monday’s board meeting that Medina sell the new truck and not take on more debt. She said village taxpayers are already overburdened with property taxes.

“When the truck arrives, put a ‘for sale’ sign on it,” she said. “We can’t afford it. We can’t afford to house it.”

She said the village is bearing the costs for the truck where most of its calls will likely be outside Medina for mutual aid.

Pictured from left include Trustee Debbie Padoleski, Mayor Marguerite Sherman and Trustee Scott Bieliski.

Paying the debt on the truck in annual payments will raise the village taxes by $1 per $1,000 of assessed property, Padoleski said. The village’s tax rate is currently $13.995 per $1,000.

“The western district would love for us to get the truck and pay for it,” she said. The towns aren’t willing to cooperate in any way, shape or form.”

Trustee Bieliski said selling the truck is worth considering.

“It’s two big lifts: the truck and the addition,” he said.

Mayor Sherman said she has been trying to find places to put the new ladder truck while the board tries to find a solution for a permanent home for the truck.

The owner of the former Snappy building on Commercial Street near the Erie Canal and lift bridge offered to make the building available for the next three months at $4,500 a month plus utilities.

But other board members didn’t want to put money in someone else’s building. After some discussion, including feedback from DPW Superintendent Jason Watts, the board said it was worth looking at the former compost facility on North Gravel Road to temporarily house the truck. Because the truck carries water, it needs to be in a heated building.

Watts said a heating system could be put in the compost facility, plus a dividing wall to reduce the space needed to keep warm. He was tasked with getting cost estimates for making the compost building usable to keep the truck.

He also said the DPW garage on East Avenue could be used by shifting vehicles around.

Watts said when the new truck arrives it won’t immediately go into service. Firefighters need to train on it and the truck needs to be outfitted. He said it’s very likely it won’t be in service until after the winter.

Medina buys fire engine from Murray for $32,000

File photo courtesy of Medina Fire Department: Medina used a fire engine from the Murray Joint Fire District in August.

Medina has a second truck that will be replaced. Medina 10, a fire engine from 1990, has been taken out of service and will join the ladder truck at an auction.

The Village Board approved spending $32,000 to buy a 2007 fire engine from the Murray Joint Fire District.

Medina borrowed Murray’s truck in August while both the ladder truck and fire engine were out of service due to mechanical problems.

Padoleski and Trustee Mark Prawel both opposed spending the $32,000 for Murray’s truck.

Fire Chief Steve Cooley said he appreciates Murray making a reliable truck available to Medina at a fair price.

Organizations accepting donations for food pantry, gloves and hats for ‘Warming Tree’

Photo by Ginny Kropf: Andrew Houseman, senior program director at the Orleans County YMCA, stands by the containers used to accept donations of non-perishable food items for The Vine’s food pantry.  Houseman has announced a lineup of new programs for the upcoming year, for all members of the family.

MEDINA – A lineup of new programs and old favorites at the Orleans County YMCA will welcome members in the New Year.

Recently hired senior program director Andrew Houseman has announced a lineup of new programs of interest to the entire family.

“You are going to see a tremendous change in programming,” Houseman said.

The first new class is a baking class, developed because of the interest in a recent cooking class, Houseman said. The baking class, which will begin at 6 p.m. Dec. 30, will be led by Lockport chef Tyler Mitchell. The class will focus on how to make different holiday cookies.

A continuing program will be co-ed adult basketball on Monday nights.

Beginning Jan. 6, the Medina High School cheerleaders will lead a dance class, open to all experience and skill levels aged 4 to 12. No expensive costumes or recitals are required. The course will take place from 6 to 7 p.m. for seven Tuesdays.

Houseman said the cheerleaders practice tumbling at the Y and he suggested they do something for the public in return. They also lead a class in tumbling for 5- to 14-year-olds. The classes will be for seven weeks from 6 to 7 p.m. Thursdays, starting Jan. 8. The tumbling camp is designed to build strength, balance and confidence.

Peewee and youth soccer provide fun, teamwork, skill building and scrimmages, and take place from 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays. The class starts Jan. 7 and runs through Feb. 25.

A very popular offering is the Youth Basketball League, which last year attracted 70 kids, Houseman said.

“We are hoping for the same interest this year,” he said.

The league begins Jan. 8 and runs through Feb. 26. Practices are from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursdays, and games are from 8 to 10 a.m. Saturdays.

A fitness program will be new in 2026, Houseman said. “New Year Healthy Habits Guide” is an eight-week challenge beginning Jan 8 with group exercise led by a professional trainer. A personal training award will be given to those who complete the program, who will also receive a discount on exercise classes. Participants will get a workout plan and nutritional support, Houseman said. Check-in is from 3 to 4:30 and 6 to 6:30 every Thursday

Another new program is Pickup Basketball, which begins Jan. 4. Members can come into the Y and organize their own basketball games, Houseman said.

There are a number of new family events, from parents’ night to schools-out programs.

One of the group training exercises the Y is trying to promote is TRX training, Houseman said. He also said HIIT virtual classes are new for 16-year-olds and up. Members can watch classes on TV. If the trainer is absent, there will still be a class. The HIIT class is from 5 to 6 p.m. Thursdays.

Houseman said they are also trying to push Zumba. They have had a big interest, but would like to see a bigger turnout, he said.

A new community library has been set up, where members can give a book or take a book.

In an effort to support their community, Houseman said the Y has been collecting non-perishable food for The Vine church on Maple Ridge Road. They have also partnered with the Medina Police Department to create a Warming Tree, in which they are seeking donations of hats and gloves for both children and adults.

“We were looking for ways to partner our organization and giving to the community was the best idea,” Houseman said. “I am friends with police officer Brandon Brown and we came up with this idea.”

The police department will deliver the hats and mittens to strategic locations where they will be available to those who need them.

In another act of community involvement, Community Action of Orleans and Genesee and the Albion FFA donated boxes of produce from their recent food collection, and anyone who wanted or needed fresh produce was welcome to take it. As of Monday, nearly all of it was gone, except for acorn squash.

Houseman said that their Child Watch service has been extended to 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 4 to 7:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

“Andrew has done a great job bringing new programming to the Orleans branch,” said Dean Bellack, chief volunteer officer at the GLOW YMCA. “I know he has more planned and I hope the community is as pleased as I am with the positive change.”

One final note Houseman shared is news about the archery classes by the Society for Anachronism (archery) which the Y has been hosting in space developed by Merle Fredericks’ Christian Bowhunters. The Society is planning to put on a show for the public in early spring. It will feature archery demonstrations and medieval fighting.

Houseman also announced a special promotion for new members in January. From Jan. 1 to 17, all new members will receive a $25 program credit. They can join online at www.glowymca.org or in person at the YMCA, 306 Pearl St.

More information on programs and prices are available by contacting the Y at www.glowymca.org or calling (585) 798-2040.

Photo by Tom Rivers

MEDINA – Christian Navas was sworn in as Medina’s police chief during Monday’s Medina Village Board meeting. His wife Stephanie pins the stars on the chief’s collar.

Navas was joined at the swearing in by his daughters, Mackenzie and Layla.

Navas is a 10-year veteran of the Medina Police Department. He has worked his way up from the ranks from patrolman and officer to sergeant, lieutenant and acting chief.

“I chose to remain with the Village of Medina Police Department for a decade because I believe in this department and the community it serves,” Navas said. “Taking on the role of Chief was a natural step to provide steady leadership, support our officers, and continue moving the department forward.”

The Village Board approved one other promotion in the Police Department on Monday. Jonathan McManus was named sergeant. He joined the Medina PD on Sept. 26, 2022.

Many of the department’s officers, including retired police chief Todd Draper, attended the swearing-in as a show of support for Navas in his new role.

Navas as acting chief convinced the Village Board last month to use grant funds towards a three-year lease agreement with Flock Safety to install License Plate Readers and PTZ safety cameras in Medina.

Navas said the cameras and readers will help officers investigate crimes, locate missing persons, and respond faster when public safety is at risk. They capture license plate information and vehicle details that can be crucial in trying to identify suspects, recover stolen vehicles, or respond to time-sensitive cases, he said.

But there has been some backlash since the announcement on Nov. 25.

The board on Monday said a committee will be working with Navas on a policy for how the readers will be used. One business owner on Monday told the board he didn’t want the readers and cameras to be used with ICE enforcement.

The Police Department issued a press release on Nov. 25, stating the cameras won’t be used for issuing tickets, tracking personal movement for minor violations, identifying individuals or running facial recognition, accessing personal cell phones or any private data.

“These cameras are strictly for investigative use after a crime or emergency has occurred,” the department said.

Photos by Ginny Kropf: Volunteers representing all branches of the military, the space program and unknown soldiers wait to place wreaths on veterans’ graves at Boxwood Cemetery Saturday noon.

MEDINA – This year, 1,260 wreaths were purchased through Wreaths Across America for veterans’ graves in the Medina area. On Saturday, 1,225 were placed in Boxwood, St. Mary’s and Sacred Heart Cemeteries on North Gravel Road.

The ceremony at Boxwood began at noon with emcee Nik Mroz, director of the Orleans County Veterans’ Services office. Dave Kusmierczak, chaplain, began the program with prayer, followed by Kate Draper singing the National Anthem.

Mroz welcomed veterans, their families and volunteers, saying this was a day to “celebrate the mission to remember the fallen, honor those who serve and their families and teach the next generation the value of freedom.”

A moment to silence was observed to remember the fallen, prisoners of war and those missing in action, and to honor those who have served and those still serving. Mroz said Wreaths Across America ceremonies took place on Saturday in more than 5,200 locations in all 50 states, U.S. territories and at 26 American cemeteries overseas, ensuring we remember our heroes wherever they rest.

Mroz quoted Ronald Reagan, the 40th president of the United States, saying, “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it on to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected and added on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children’s children what it was once like in the United States, where men were free.”

(Left) Tom Snyder, a U.S. Navy veterans’ electricians mate 2nd class, stands at attention after placing a wreath on a sailor’s grave. Snyder was the organizer of this year’s Wreath’s Across American program, which started in Medina in 2013. (Right) U.S. Marine Corps veteran Lance Cpl. Nicolas Fitzak prepares to place a wreath on a Marine’s grave during the Wreaths Across America ceremony Saturday in Boxwood Cemetery.

Mroz introduced a member of each branch of the military, the Space Force and the Merchant Marines, who laid a wreath at a veteran’s grave who served in that branch.

They were Louis A. Chraston, U.S. Army Active Duty Staff Sgt.; U. S. Marine Corps veteran Lance Cpl. Nicholas J. Fitzak; U.S. Navy Veteran electrician’s mate 2nd Class Tom Snyder; U.S. Air Force Active Duty M Sgt. Michael J. Owczarczak; U.S. Air National Guardsman Airman 1st Class Noah Heinkler of the U.S. Space Force; U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps Cadet Brendon Hodkin in the United States Coast Guard; Diana Anderson, representing the United States Merchant Marines; and the final wreath placed by Assemblyman Stephen M. Hawley, a U.S. Army veteran 1st lieutenant, in honor of the more than 80,000 United States servicemen from all branches of the service whose last known status was either prisoner of war or missing in action.

Wreaths left over from the three cemeteries were free for the public to take to place on a veteran’s grave in other cemeteries. Snyder said he had already taken one for his father’s grave in Mount Albion Cemetery. Brad Nudd, a member of the Orleans County Honor Guard, said he takes one to place on his brother-in-law Gary Gross’ grave at Marshall Road Cemetery.

Mroz reminded those gathered at Boxwood Cemetery to consider purchasing a wreath, which are buy one for $17 and get one free until the end of December. They may be purchased by seeing Hailey at the village of Medina offices on Park Avenue.

Emcee Nik Mroz, director of the Orleans County Veterans’ Services office, introduces Chaplain Dave Kusmierczak, right, who offered a moment of prayer. At left, Kate Draper waits to sing the National Anthem, while members of Orleans County’s Honor Guard wait at right to fire a three-gun salute, followed by playing of Taps.

Photos by Ginny Kropf: A sea of boxed food and gifts is ready for firefighters to begin delivering as soon as they finish their breakfast at The Grove United Methodist Church on Saturday morning.

MEDINA – One-hundred and ten families in the Medina area will have gifts and a Christmas dinner, thanks to the Medina Area Association of Churches’ annual Red Barrel/Present program.

Chaired for the sixth year by Sherry Tuohey-Sipple, this year’s giveaway will provide Christmas for 350 individuals, ranging from infants to senior citizens.

(Left) Deb Taylor, chief of East Shelby Fire Company, carries a box of gifts out to a waiting truck for delivery on Saturday morning. (Right) Deanna Quackenbush from Shelby Volunteer Fire Company carries a Christmas gift box out of The Grove United Methodist Church on Saturday morning.

No one can count how many years this program has been ongoing, but it was taken over by MAAC decades ago, and grew from a toy giveaway started by Medina firefighters. Ever since, the Medina firefighters and volunteers from East Shelby, Ridgeway and Shelby have volunteered to deliver upwards of 40 red barrels to strategic locations throughout the Medina area, then pick up the filled barrels early in December and, finally, deliver the packed Christmas boxes to a hundred or more homes.

Sherry Tuohey-Sipple chairs the program, and said none of it would happen if it weren’t for the dedicated volunteers, who sort gifts, pack the boxes and otherwise help with the project.

“We had a lot of volunteers this year,” Tuohey-Sipple said. “The firemen returned the filled barrels to us on Dec. 3, and we started sorting and packing immediately. We had at least 25 volunteers each day, some of which were new.”

Cher Beach, a new volunteer, and Norma Jean Foster, head of the food committee for MAAC’s Christmas gift program, bring out hams to add to the boxes just before local firefighters arrived to deliver them on Saturday morning. At left, Sherry Tuohey-Sipple, head of the MAAC Christmas Present program, makes a final check of one gift box.

Two of the new volunteers were Katie Oakes and Meghan Fuller, who recently joined the MAAC committee.

“I’ve loved this program forever, and as soon as I heard there was an opening, I jumped right in,” Oakes said.

Katie and Meghan have done a lot to promote us this year,” said Norma Jean Foster, who heads the food committee and is responsible for buying the hams and other essentials for a Christmas dinner for each family.

Each year, the biggest challenge is to find gifts suitable for teens, and this year, Oakes and Fuller took on that task. The “teen” category includes ages 9 through 18, and this year there were 98 in that age group. Each child got a gift, Tuohey-Sipple said.

Firefighters from Medina, Shelby, Ridgeway and East Shelby, along with other volunteers, enjoyed a free breakfast Saturday morning at The Grove United Methodist Church. Firefighters delivered boxes of gifts and food for a Christmas dinner to 110 families.

Each year for many years, Bob Harrold of Lyndonville has searched, acquired and restored red wagons and donated them to MAAC. This year Jim Sipple also restored one. The MAAC committee tries to give the red wagons to families who don’t have a car. Many have said how the wagon came in so handy either to give their young children a ride to the grocery store or to carry home their groceries.

This year, two new toy ATVs were donated. Also commended was Jane Wharron, who crocheted lap throws for each of the senior citizens who got a Christmas box, and Kathie McMoil, who works with Foster on the food committee.

“People are so dedicated, even our kitchen crew who put on the breakfast,” Tuohey-Sipple said.

Medina fire chief Steve Cooley finds room for one more Christmas box in his truck on Saturday, when firefighters from Medina, Shelby, East Shelby and Ridgeway delivered Christmas gift boxes to 110 families in the Medina area.

Addressing the firefighters, Tuohey-Sipple said, “We couldn’t do this program without you. You distribute the barrels, you pick them up and bring them back in, and then you deliver the boxes.”

Steve Cooley, Medina’s fire chief, said this was the 16th year he has been volunteering his time to the MAAC project.

“This is a time when people need us the most,” he said.

Also volunteering their time was East Shelby’s fire chief Deb Taylor, Austin Seefeldt and Alexis Rutherford from Ridgeway, along with Ridgeway’s assistant chief, Jerry Lewis.