By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 24 September 2015 at 12:00 am
A widespread phone outage has many people without phone service this morning in Orleans County, and neighboring communities.
In Orleans County the 9-1-1 emergency phone system is working, but some agencies and organizations don’t have service.
Medina Memorial Hospital is unable to accept phone calls through its usual phone number so the hospital has a dedicated cell phone at the switchboard. People can call in at (585) 261-0829. The hospital can still call out with its phone system, said Wendy Jacobson, CEO and president of the hospital.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 23 September 2015 at 12:00 am
Tom Drennan
After a very close loss in the Republican Primary for Orleans County sheriff, Tom Drennan announced he is staying in the race and “working harder than ever.”
Although he lost the primary, 1,671 to 1,650 to Randy Bower, Drennan remains on the Nov. 3 ballot. He has the Independence Party line, which is the third one down on the ballot. He also has the Reform Line, which Rob Astorino started in his bid for governor last year against Andrew Cuomo.
“After coming up a few votes short in the Republican Primary it is important for all the voters in Orleans County to know that we are still here working harder than ever,” Drennan said in a statement this evening. “Every voice should be heard and every vote counts on Election Day, November 3rd.”
Drennan, 50, is currently the chief deputy for the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office. He started as a road patrol deputy in September 1992 and has been promoted to lieutenant, criminal investigator, major and chief deputy.
The Nov. 3 election will include Bower under the Republican and Conservative Party lines and former Medina police investigator Don Organisciak, who is running with the Democratic Party line.
Drennan has been running his campaign with the message “Experience Matters.” Besides his 23-year career in the Sheriff’s Office, Drennan has completed numerous training courses.
“The Drennan for Sheriff committee has a strong group of supporters from all walks of life and all political party affiliations,” Drennan said in his statement. “There is a great deal of law enforcement experience that knows what it takes to be the Sheriff and who is the most qualified candidate in this race. They are standing behind Drennan and spreading the word.”
Drennan, a Kendall resident, said he will be out the next six weeks, connecting with as many voters as possible.
“Tom Drennan cares about all of you,” he said in his statement. “We work for everyone. Party affiliation does not matter when Public Safety is Priority #1.”
Photos by Tom Rivers – Marsha Rivers, executive director of the United Way of Orleans County, has an office in the southeast corner of the former Swan Library, a spot that used to have several tall shelves of books.
Press Release, United Way
ALBION – United Way of Orleans County has taken its place as the first office occupant of the former Swan Library, 4 North Main St., just in time to begin its fall campaign.
The annual kick-off will be Oct. 22 at Leonard Oakes Estate Winery, but fundraising is already under way. Albion and Medina Tops Markets began their United Way campaign this week, and dozens more companies and organizations are signing on to offer employees the giving opportunity that gives back to the community in dozens of ways.
Executive Director Marsha Rivers, who this week marks her first year at the helm of the county-wide charitable organization, said: “When I’m out and about, people ask me things like, ‘Why should I give to the United Way?’ Or, ‘What difference can my little bit make?’ And my answer is the old saying: ‘Every little bit helps!’ Because it’s true.”
United Way hosts campaigns at about 40 local workplaces and receives additional donations from several dozen companies and hundreds of individual donors. The organization then distributes funds to about 20 local programs, among them Arc of Orleans’ Meals on Wheels, Orleans County Adult Learning Services’ literacy programs, and Genesee-Orleans Ministry of Concern’s Last Resort for emergency assistance. Funding applications for 2016 are now available to non-profit agencies and due Nov. 2.
The former Swan Library was purchased by Chad Fabry of Holley who wants to use the three-story site for offices.
“A gift to United Way goes a long way,” Rivers said. “Last year we showed donors how just two dollars per week could pay for a child’s registration to Camp Rainbow, or sponsor their attendance at 4-H Conservation Days.
“This campaign season, I’m sharing true stories about how seemingly small gestures or changes have made a huge difference in people’s lives, right here in Orleans County, through United Way donor dollars.”
The office relocation brings United Way closer to many of its partner agencies’ headquarters, based in the county seat. It is also a smaller space than the previous office, reducing rental costs and allowing United Way to help the community even more, Rivers said.
“Again, every little bit helps – I personally contribute to the campaign, so I understand how much it matters that this money is invested carefully, wisely. A big part of my job is trying to maximize the impact of our donors’ generosity.”
In addition to the ongoing workplace campaigns and the direct mail appeal this fall, United Way is hosting its annual volunteerism event, Day of Caring, on Oct. 23. A second day, Oct. 24, is being offered as an option for local high school students looking for opportunities to fulfill their schools’ community service requirements.
Day of Caring participants should call the United Way at their new number, 585-283-4773. During campaign season, public office hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon. Rivers may also be reached via email mrivers@orleansunitedway.org.
Provided photos – State Sen. Robert Ortt stopped by Hoag Library in Albion today to present ceremonial checks for $35,000 to four public libraries in Orleans County, plus $15,000 for the Medina Railroad Museum. Pictured at Hoag Library, from left, include: Betty Sue Miller, interim director of Hoag Library; Sandra Shaw, director of Community Free Library in Holley; Catherine Cooper, director of Lee-Whedon Memorial Library in Medina; Senator Robert Ortt; Emily Cebula, director of Yates Community Library in Lyndonville; and Hugh James, treasurer of Medina Railroad Museum.
Pictured at the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office in Albion, from left, include: Holley Police Officer Peter Colombo; Orleans County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Tom Drennan; Medina Police Chief Jose Avila; Senator Ortt; Albion Police Chief Roland Nenni; Orleans County District Attorney’s Office 1st Assistant DA Susan Howard.
Press Release State Sen. Robert Ortt
ALBION – State Sen. Rob Ortt (R – North Tonawanda) today delivered a total of $85,000 to the Medina Railroad Museum, public libraries and law enforcement agencies throughout Orleans County.
The senator secured the money as part of the 2015-16 State Budget.
Senator Ortt presented the Medina Railroad Museum with a $15,000 check to support its educational, cultural, and recreational programming.
The Orleans County libraries received a total of $35,000 to assist with educational services and programming, materials, renovation projects, operations, or events that serve the community.
The amount of Senate grant money to the county libraries is as follows: Hoag Library, $20,000; Community Free Library, $5,000; Lee-Whedon Memorial Library, $5,000;and Yates Community Library, $5,000.
Ortt also secured funds for law enforcement agencies to help fight against crime, operate more effectively and efficiently, and aid emergency services and public safety measures.
The amount of Senate grant money to law enforcement is as follows: Orleans County Sheriff’s Office, $10,000; Orleans County District Attorney’s Office, $10,000; Albion Police Department, $5,000; Holley Police Department, $5,000; Medina Police Department, $5,000.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 21 September 2015 at 12:00 am
Photos by Tom Rivers
ALBION – Contractors have built two 60- by 150-foot pole barns on West Academy Street for the Orleans County Highway Department.
The new facilities will allow the county to put vehicles, equipment and some materials inside year-round. It will better secure the county equipment, and also speed up time in deploying the vehicles during the winter after snow. County employees won’t have to brush off snow, for example.
This pole barn is currently empty but will be used to store equipment, vehicles and other materials.
Secor Building Solutions in Savannah NY submitted the lowest bid, $382,698, to build the two pole barns. The company is located near Syracuse.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 19 September 2015 at 12:00 am
Community turns out to say goodbye to Erin Fuller
Photos by Tom Rivers – Many of the police officers who attended the calling hours on Friday and funeral today for Deputy Erin Fuller included a black band over their badges in honor of Fuller. This photo shows the badge worn by Deputy Josh Narburgh.
SHELBY – In his 16 years as a deputy sheriff in Orleans County, Erin Fuller saved many lives and proved an advocate for his fellow deputies, whether at the negotiating table for a union contract and writing successful grants to bring equipment and resources to the Sheriff’s Office.
More than 300 people attended a funeral service for Fuller today at the Shelby Fire Hall, including many police officers from throughout the county and outside Orleans.
Sean-Michael Green served four years in the Marines with Fuller, including a deployment during Desert Storm.
“He was incredibly special,” said Green, who travelled from West Haven, Connecticut for the service today. “He was absolutely a hero.”
Erin Fuller
Fuller was committed to serving his country, said Green, who first met Fuller at Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, NC.
“Erin was more creative and passionate than your typical Marine,” Green said during the service at the fire hall.
Fuller was 45 when he took his own life a week ago on Sept. 12. His death has shocked with colleagues, friends and family.
His cousin, Doug Fuller, told the crowd at the service that Erin inspired his family by joining the Marines and then serving as a deputy sheriff.
“We’re very proud of Erin,” Doug Fuller said. “He sacrificed and put his life on the line.”
Members of the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office served as Honor Guard during calling hours and the funeral. The group includes, from left: Alex Breuilly, Dave Foeller, Ryan Flaherty, Jeff Cole, Chris Bourke, Brian Larkin, Josh Narburgh and Dean Covis.
Sheriff Scott Hess spoke at the funeral and said Fuller “proudly served his community.”
Fuller was president of the 23-member Orleans County Deputy Sheriff’s Association. That role put him a “tough spot,” Hess said. Fuller would sometimes butt heads with management while advocating for deputies.
Fuller was re-elected by his deputies year after year to serve as the union leader.
“That speaks to his leadership and commitment,” Hess said.
Fuller wrote the grants that resulted in two new boats for the Marine Patrol. One of the grants he wrote also paid for new boots, sunglasses and sneakers for deputies on the Marine Patrol.
In 2013, Fuller earned his captain’s license to be part of the Marine Patrol. It’s another example of him pushing himself to excel and serve the community, Hess said.
David Thom, a member of the auxilliary police, wore the black band over his badge today in tribute to Fuller.
Fuller also was president of the NYS Deputy Sheriff’s Association, which has about 2,000 members. Fuller was a resource to union presidents around the state, offering advice and often traveling to Albany and other counties to speak on behalf of deputies.
“He had the respect of everybody in the association,” said Tom Ross, executive director of the NYS Deputy Sheriff’s Association.
Ross worked closely with Fuller and watched him develop into an effective leader for the deputies.
“He was reasonable, and you have to be reasonable,” Ross said. “He wouldn’t keep arguing a point if there was no point in arguing. He could have a rational conversation, figure out the differences and then fnd a solution.”
Chuck Nesbitt, the Orleans County chief administrative officer, said he admired Fuller and respected him as the leader of the local union. Fuller was aware of the county’s budget needs and secured concessions from the deputies while also reaching a deal in their benefit, Nesbitt said.
Law enforcement vehicles are parked outside the Shelby Fire Hall, where more than 300 people attended a funeral service today for Deputy Erin Fuller.
Lt. Chris Bourke worked closely with Fuller on the Marine Division and also with road patrol. Bourke said Fuller enjoyed a good conversation.
“He liked to debate,” Bourke said. “He would take a position.”
Fuller stepped up in writing the grants to secure the boats for the Marine Patrol, which was a lot of extra work for Fuller.
“He was always for the good of the department and moving us forward,” Bourke said. “He worked hard for the Marine Division, getting us more equipment and raising the professionalism.”
The Rev. Stanley Thurber, retired pastor of the oak Orchard Assembly of God, led today’s service. He said Erin is part of the Fuller family that is heavily involved in serving the community.
Thurber said there is no making sense of Fuller’s death. Thurber said God was with Fuller during his death and has welcomed him.
The pastor shared Matthew 11:28-29: “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
Many of Fuller’s colleagues and first responders have posted this image on Facebook in honor of Fuller, who wore badge No. 155 for the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 19 September 2015 at 12:00 am
Photos by Tom Rivers – The Orleans County Chamber honored local businesses and community leaders at its 17th annual awards dinner Friday. Front row, from left, include Kathy Blackburn, Chamber executive director; Lora Partyka, Businessperson of the year; Barbara Waters, accepting lifetime achievement in honor of her late husband Robert Waters; Laura Gardner, Phoenix Award for her efforts at “a lily and a sparrow”; and Lisa Stratton, owner of the Hazy Jade Gift Shop and special recognition for her work in promoting downtown Albion. Back row, Greg Budd, general manager for Business of the Year, Hinspergers Poly Industries; Barb Flow, Community Service Award; Jill and Mike Bower, owners of Small Business of the Year, Erie Way Tree Farm; Bernie Heberle, general manager and co-owner of Roberts Circle R Fruit Farms, named Agricultural Business of the Year; and Bryan and Larissa DeGraw, owners of 810 Meadworks, the New Business of the Year.
GAINES – Orleans County is a place where you can bring your business dreams and turn them into a reality and a success. It’s a place where volunteers can pitch in, and become involved in youth sports, festivals and other community events.
Those were among the themes at the 17th annual awards dinner on Friday for the Orleans County Chamber of Commerce. Award winners described a welcoming community, open to “outsiders” trying ventures in the county.
Bryan and Larissa DeGraw moved 400 miles from New Jersey to Orleans County to open 810 Meadworks in downtown Medina last November. The business makes alcoholic drinks by fermenting honey.
Bryan and Larissa DeGraw, owners of 810 Meadworks, accept the award for New Business of the Year.
Their meadery, named New Business of the Year, has become a destination, drawing visitors to the county. The DeGraws said the community has supported the business and embraced the couple.
Mr. DeGraw said 810 Meadworks received lots of help and encouragement along the way. Mayor Andrew Meier and real estate agent Katt Battaglia were instrumental in their decision to pick downtown Medina for the business.
The Orleans Economic Development Agency also approved a loan for 810 Meadworks.
“The EDA board puts its faith in our business plan to give us a loan to get us going,” Mr. DeGraw said.
Lora Partyka of Kendall accepts the award for Businessperson of the Year, a new honor presented by the Chamber of Commerce.
Lora Partyka, a Barker native, moved to Kendall with her husband Jeff in 1985. They opened a roadside stand. That has grown to a farm market, gift shop, ice cream and the base for community projects, including the country barn quilt trail, which includes 40 sites in the Kendall area.
The Partykas take produce to several farmers’ markets in the area, and in April opened The Farmers’ Table, a restaurant in Hamlin that serves breakfast and lunch made from local produce, eggs, syrup and hash.
“It’s not frozen food,” Partyka said. “The concept is fresh and local.”
Partyka was praised for her work ethic and community dedication when she was presented the Businessperson of the Year, a new award from the Chamber.
Partyka admitted she didn’t know too much about Kendall when she and her husband moved there 30 years ago.
“We couldn’t do what we do without a great supportive community,” Partyka said during an awards dinner attended by 130 people at Tillman’s Village Inn.
Barb Flow accepts the community service award. Last year’s winner, Ken DeRoller, presented the award to Flow.
Flow also moved into Kendall. She remembers coming to town and seeing no grocery store or a bank. But she is thankful to have raised a family and built her life in Kendall.
“It has the people of a hard-working community,” she said.
The school district and 4-H programs are also assets, she said.
She recently retired after 26 years of leading the recreation program. She is now on the Kendall Town Board and runs a garlic farm with her husband Vince.
“Helping a child succeed and supporting them on their journey is truly a reward for me,” Flow said.
Greg Budd, general manager for Hinspergers Poly Industries in Medina, accepts the award for Business of the Year.
In 2002, a Canadian company opened a site in Medina. Hinspergers has expanded the former Jamestown Container manufacturing building on West Oak Orchard Street from 25,000 square feet to 83,000 square feet.
The company had 17 employees in 2003 and now is up to 70 workers in Medina who make covers and solar blankets for swimming pools.
“We are here long-term,” said Greg Budd, general manager for the Medina site. “We have no plans on leaving.”
Budd moved from Ontario, Canada to help get the Medina plant up and going. The company has proven a “good corporate citizen” for the community.
Other businesses recognized on Friday started from scratch in Orleans, and have found success in the county.
Bernie Heberle is general manager and co-owner of Circle R Fruit Farms in Carlton. The farm started in 1986 and has grown to 80 employees and a retail farm market that sells ice cream.
Circle R has expanded to 550 acres and expects to produce 450,000 bushels of fruit this year. The Chamber praised the farm for its growth and for providing “exceptional local produce to Orleans County and beyond.”
Heberle accepted the award for Agricultural Business of the Year in honor of Lynn Roberts, the farm’s longtime leader who died at age 80 on June 13.
Mike and Jill Bower won Small Business of the Year for their work in expanding the Erie Way Tree Farm of Holley. The couple has run a Christmas tree farm since 1985. It has grown since 2010 and expanded to landscaping, wreaths, centerpieces and holiday decor.
“They are an excellent example of how small businesses can succeed in Orleans County, said Greg Piedmonte, a member of the Chamber board of directors.
Laura Gardner accepts the Phoenix Award for her work in renovating a storefront for her business, a lily and a sparrow in Medina.
Laura Gardner opened a lily and a sparrow five years ago in downtown Medina, after she worked more than two decades as an accountant. About a year ago she moved the business down the street to 438 Main St., a site that had been home to Baughn’s Shoe Store since 1960.
Gardner has given the storefront a vastly different look. “It has been transformed into a modern, chic storefront,” said Cindy Robinson, president of the Medina Business Association. “It’s like a boutique in Rochester or Buffalo.”
Gardner draws local shoppers and out-of-towners for the designer clothing from designers in Turkey, Israel, India and the United States. Gardner also has an array of leather handbags, perfume, jewelry and vintage glassware and note cards.
Barbara Waters accepts the “Lifetime Achievement” award in honor of her husband, the late Robert Waters.
“It’s beautiful,” Gardner said about the renovations. “I love when I look at that building everyday when I’m coming into town.”
Robert Waters and his family ran the local newspaper, The Journal-Register, for decades until it was sold in 1985. Waters expanded its coverage from Medina to a county-wide publication.
After getting out of the newspaper business, Waters would work 10 years as communications director for State Sen. John Daly and his successor, George Maziarz. Waters also served on the Ridgeway Town Board for a decade, and was deputy town supervisor.
He was active in numerous community causes. He helped found the Shelridge Country Club, and was instrumental in finding a new use for the shuttered Medina Armory, which is now the Orleans County YMCA.
He was active in the Medina Historical Society and was president of the Medina Sandstone Society.
Mr. Waters was 90 when he died on July 29.
“He extended such warmth as he worked for the greater good of Orleans County,” said Bruce Krenning, who presented the award to Waters’ wife, Barbara.
Chamber Executive Director Kathy Blackburn also presented a special recognition to Lisa Stratton, honor of the Hazy Jade Gift Shop in Albion for her efforts to beautify downtown Albion with flowers and also to promote many events to highlight local businesses in the downtown.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 18 September 2015 at 12:00 am
Photos by Tom Rivers
ALBION – Paul Gray, a motor equipment operator for the Orleans County Highway Department, moves a pallet of computer units and other electronic waste at the County Highway Department today at 225 West Academy St.
The county started accepting e-waste on Monday at the Highway Department and at two other sites: the Murray Town Hall at 3840 Fancher Rd (Route31), and the Shelby Town Hall, 4062 Salt Works Rd.
Already, 34 pallets of e-waste, mostly older TVs with cathode-ray technology, were collected at the three locations. Residents can drop off the materials for free.
Paul Gray and Chuck Nesbitt, the county’s chief adminsitrative officer, are pictured inside the Highway Department where 13 pallets of e-waste have been dropped off this week in Albion, mostly the older televisions.
The state on Jan. 1 began banning curbside disposal of older TVs with cathode-ray technology. Many residents have upgraded from those televisions, switching to popular flat screens. Many of the older TVs have been dumped in ditches along rural roads.
The County Legislature last month approved a deal with Sunnking Incorporated of Brockport to pick up and dispose of cathode ray tube televisions, monitors, computers, peripheral devices and other household electronics.
The company will be paid $14,782 annually for the service.
Nesbitt said the big influx of e-waste this week shows a pent-up demand among residents to get rid of the material.
The three locations will accept the e-waste from Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 17 September 2015 at 12:00 am
Photo by Tom Rivers
MEDINA – Leaders of the Orleans County YMCA are piloting a new program where youths ages 15 to 20 can receive a free Y membership for six months if they complete a 10-week life skills class.
Pictured, include, from left: Don Colquhoun, former board chairman; Y Executive Director Shauna Parkinson; and Dean Bellack, current Y board chairman.
All three will serve as instructors for the class, as well as Jeff Evoy, Medina school district superintendent, and Jim Simon, dean of the GCC campus centers in Albion and Medina.
“Part of our mission is linking into the community and finding where we can have an impact,” Bellack said.
The Y started childcare programs and exercise classes for senior citizens after assessing community needs.
Bellack believes there is a need for life skills, with topics such as money management, consequences of choices, goal setting, living on your own, and other issues.
“We are hoping they will look at their life trajectory a little bit differently and hopefully open up some possibilities for them,” Bellack said about the Life Skills program.
Orleans County Y officials believe the local Y is the first to offer such a program. Classes will be taught Tuesday evenings form 6 to 7:30 p.m. from Oct. 6 through Dec. 8. The classes will be in the classroom at the Y, located at 306 Pearl St.
Students in the program will receive a free membership during the 10 weeks of classes, plus another three months if they successfully complete the program.
The program will be open to 20 students for the first class.
Shauna Parkinson, the director of the Y in Orleans County, wants to target the program to students who aren’t engaged in sports and other school activities, although the program is open to all students.
“We’re looking to inform and educate on life skills that generally aren’t taught in school,” she said.
For more information on the program, call the Y at (585) 798-2040 or click here.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 17 September 2015 at 12:00 am
File photo by Tom Rivers – The Villages of Orleans Health and Rehabilitation Center, which became privately owned on Jan. 1, was added to the tax rolls for the first time this year at a $6,618,900 assessment. Comprehensive Healthcare Management Services LLC wants the assessment reduced to $2.5 million.
The two nursing homes in Orleans County have both taken legal action, seeking big drops in their assessments. If the challenges are successful, local governments could see more than $100,000 less in tax revenue with each site.
The owners of Orchard Manor in Medina are seeking the biggest reduction as a percentage. The 160-bed facility is assessed at $4.1 million. The owners, Global Health Care, say the assessment should be $410,000.
The former county-owned nursing home is now privately owned by Comprehensive Healthcare Management Services LLC. The company paid $7.8 million on for the 120-bed Villages of Orleans Health and Rehabilitation Center on Route 31 in Albion.
The property went on the tax rolls for the first time this year with a $6,618,900 assessment. Comprehensive is challenging that assessment, filing legal papers saying it should be valued at $2.5 million.
There is a lot of tax revenue at stake if the properties are reduced in assessment. The issue will go before James Punch, acting State Supreme Court judge in Orleans County.
Global Health Care purchased Orchard Manor Rehabilitation and Nursing Center on Bates Road in 2012 from Medina Memorial Hospital. The site sold for $4.1 million. That has been the assessment since going on the tax rolls for the first time in 2013. That site is located within the Village of Medina.
Global Health pays about $225,500 in property taxes with a combined tax rate of about $55 per $1,000 of assessed property. That includes $70,233 to the Village of Medina, which has a $17.13 tax rate per $1,000 of assessed property.
If Global Health is successful in reducing the assessment to $410,000, it would pay a tenth in taxes what it does now or $22,550, with the village getting about $7,000 instead of $70,233.
The local taxing entities, led by the Town of Shelby, are discussing the legal battle for the assessment, trying to pool their resources in defending the higher assessment. Shelby is organizing the joint municipal effort because the town is responsible for assessing the property.
The former county-owned nursing home sits just outside the Village of Albion and doesn’t pay village taxes.
Comprehensive pays a combined tax rate of about $33 to the school district, town, county, library and for fire protection. At a $6,618,900 assessment, the tax bill for the nursing home is about $220,000 a year. If Comprehensive can reduce the assessment to $2.5 million, it would pay about $82,500 in taxes, less than 40 percent of the current tax bill.
Both nursing home owners filed complaints with the Board of Assessment Review, and those boards backed the levels set by the local assessors. Now, the issue will go before Judge Punch in State Supreme Court.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 15 September 2015 at 12:00 am
Photo by Tom Rivers – Randy Bower is all smiles outside the Board of Elections office when he realizes he has won the Republican line for Orleans County sheriff in the Nov. 3 election. Chris Bourke, left, has been campaigning with Bower as Bower’s choice for undersheriff. Bourke is currently a lieutenant in the Sheriff’s Office.
ALBION – Randy Bower has captured the Republican line for sheriff in the general election. It was a hard-fought victory for Bower, an effort that began several months ago.
Bower wasn’t endorsed by the Republican Party leaders. He forced a primary and had a razor-thin 27-vote lead, 1,588 to 1,561, over Tom Drennan after the primary on Thursday.
When the absentees and affidavit ballots were counted this morning, Drennan gained 6 votes overall. But that wasn’t enough to erase the 27-vote buffer Bower built up.
The final unofficial results give Bower 1,671 votes to 1,650 for Drennan. (There is a chance a few more votes could trickle in by the Thursday deadline, but they would need to have been mailed by Sept. 9. Election Commissioner Dennis Piediomonte doubts any more will come in.)
“It has been a tough race,” Bower said after the absentees were counted. “He (Drennan) did really well with it. I’m sure we were both sitting on pins and needles.”
Drennan will remain on the ballot with the Independence and Reform lines. The Independence line is the third one down, ahead of the Conservatives.
The Nov. 3 election also will include a Democratic Party candidate, retired Medina police investigator Don Organisciak.
With another candidate in the mix, as well as independent and third-party voters, Piedimonte said it’s difficult to forecast who will win.
Randy Bower has been highly visible in the community in recent months, attending festivals, chicken barbecue dinners, classic car shows and numerous other events. He is pictured here on Friday in Albion during a memorial service on the 14th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
Bower pulled off a significant upset by winning the GOP Primary. As the endorsed-candidate, Drennan had the support of many Republican leaders. Morgan said both Drennan, the chief deputy in the Sheriff’s Office, and Bower, a dispatcher for nearly 30 years, both have worked hard campaigning in recent months.
“They’re both good people,” Morgan said after the vote was announced this morning.
Bower said he is looking for broad-based support in the general election, drawing on Republicans, Democrats, Conservatives, independent voters and third parties.
He said the Conservative Party helped to get his campaign going with an endorsement in early May, before the Republicans backed a candidate.
“It started as a grass roots effort,” Bower said. “It has been a team effort and we will bring a team mentality to the Sheriff’s Office. We will get everybody helping everybody in Orleans County.”
Bower, 50, of Murray said his campaign has gained energy and support since the spring. Securing the Republican line adds more momentum to the campaign, he said.
“Nobody can do it by themselves,” he said. “I’m here to lead and to surround myself with good people.”
Staff Reports Posted 14 September 2015 at 12:00 am
ALBION – The boards of directors for both The Arc of Orleans and Genesee ARC have voted for a merger of the two agencies that serve developmentally or intellectually disabled residents.
NYSARC, Inc., the non-profit organization that oversees the Genesee and Orleans chapters, will monitor and guide the voluntary unification process, which should be completed in 2016. Combined, the agencies serve over 1,200 individuals with disabilities.
Donna Saskowski, longtime executive director of the Genesee ARC, has also been overseeing the Orleans chapter since April.
“For months we have been meeting to discuss how we can collaborate and share services,” Saskowski said. “This was the next logical step.”
John Huber, president of The Arc of Orleans, said the merger is a progressive move that will expand opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in both counties.
“Our new dream is to adapt to the changing horizon while providing expanded services to the people we serve,” Huber said.
Candie Pocock is president of the Genesee ARC. She echoed Huber’s comments.
“What’s important for families, staff and individuals in both chapters to understand is that programs and services will continue in each county, and now have the opportunity to grow,” she said.
Each board recognizes the similarities between their respective counties, Saskowski said.
“We are rural, neighboring, agricultural communities, roughly the same size in area and among New York’s smallest in terms of population,” Saskowski said. “Looking ahead, we feel our similar cultures will allow for a smooth transition.”
In a joint statement the chapters’ executive boards said the merger will approve the financial health of the organization.
“We are choosing to unify in order to effectively address the financial challenges resulting from current NYS Medicaid transformational reform initiatives.”
Genesee ARC was founded in 1966 and will be marking its 50th anniversary next year. The Arc of Orleans was founded in 1970 and is celebrating its 45th anniversary in 2015.
“This is a strong statement in support of the people we serve and all of our staff,” Saskowski said about the decision to merge. “The Orleans and Genesee Chapters have nearly 100 years of experience serving people with disabilities in our two counties. This vast experience will position us well going forward.”
Staff Reports Posted 14 September 2015 at 12:00 am
ALBION – The Holy Family Parish in Albion, in cooperation with eight other local churches, will host an Ecumenical Sustainability Fair on Tuesday from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at Holy Family’s Lyceum, the upstairs hall at 106 S. Main St.
The event is titled “On Care for Our Common Home,” the subtitle of a message from Pope Francis, who has pressed Christians on their duty to care for nature.
The Sustainability Fair includes 22 exhibitors who will touch on recycling, composting, reducing consumption, caring for the environment and many other earth-friendly practices. Four groups will provide tastings of sustainable foods, including Leonel Rosario, chef-owner of Mariachi d’Oro Restaurant in Medina.
Some of the exhibitors include: Wegmans, Rochester Institute of technology, Catholic Charities, Pullman Universalist Church, Brockport First Presbyterian Community Garden, “accomplished gardeners,” Lift Bridge Book Store, Hospice, Boy Scouts, Christ Farm Market, G-O Ministry of Concern and several others.
Father Dick Csizmar, pastor of the Holy Family Parish, is pleased to see the pope lead on sustainability, and for the local churches to rally around the issue.
“With Pope Francis’ new encyclical Laudato Si’ evoking great discussion world-wide, it truly is a delight to see our pope addressing the issue of ‘our common home,’ our planet earth, and what we are called to do to make life more blessed for those around our globe today; for preparing for future generations to have opportunities to enjoy what God has placed in our hands; to help create a world where people truly work for the good of one another,” Csizmar said.
Sister Sharon Goodremote, an environmental educator in the Western New York Catholic Diocese, will be the featured speaker at 6:30 p.m. Goodremote is currently the chairowman of the Diocesan Care for Creation Committee whose “mission is to educate Catholics throughout the diocese about Catholic teaching on care for creation.
The committee’s focus is on sharing resources on Pope Francis’ encyclical and providing practical ways people to respond to the Church’s call to make care for creation not an Earth Day slogan, but something integral to our way of living.”
Bob Golden is co-organizer of the fair. He is pleased with the interest from so many exhibitors.
“I’m shocked,” he said. “We’d hoped for maybe six to 10 organizations who would display their sustainability efforts. We now have 22 exhibitors slated.”
Wegmans has provided a grant to help finance the event.
“Even though we’re frequent shoppers and fans of Wegmans, we were impressed by their commitment to sustainability,” Golden said. “Their initiatives in eliminating food waste, composting and using compost to generate electricity and recycling in many different ways have dramatically reduced what they send to landfills.”
There will be a roundtable discussion beginning at 8 p.m. that will include Sister Sharon Goodremote, Leonel Rosario (who also has worked as a farmworker), and Sheila Stone, who worked 20 years at Buffalo Catholic Charities and has been involved in Sacred Heart Center and Earth Heart.
Staff Reports Posted 14 September 2015 at 12:00 am
Erin Fuller
ALBION – Deputies and staff at the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office are mourning the loss of Erin Fuller, a 16-year veteran of the department who died on Saturday.
“Deputy Fuller died tragically while off-duty on Saturday – September 12th and his death was investigated by the Town of Orchard Park Police Department in Erie County,” Sheriff Scott Hess said today in a statement. “The Sheriff’s Office was in close contact with the Orchard Park PD throughout that investigation and foul play has been ruled out.”
Prior to working as a deputy the past 16 years, Deputy Fuller had previous service in the United States Marine Corps. He was president of the 23-member Orleans County Deputy Sheriffs’ Association, and also worked on the marine patrol.
“The sworn and civilian staff of the Sheriff’s Office is coping with this event and grief counseling is going to be made available to all,” Hess said.
File photo – Orleans County Deputy Sheriff Erin Fuller in May discusses staying safe this summer in and around water with local 6th graders at the “Water, boats and being safe” station at the annual Orleans County Conservation Field Days.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 11 September 2015 at 12:00 am
The county-wide vote totals for Randy Bower and Tom Drennan were nearly the same out of 3,149 votes, with Bower holding a slight 27-vote edge in the race to be the next Orleans County sheriff.
However, some towns strongly favored Drennan while Bower collected an overwhelming majority in others. Some towns were almost a 50-50 split in the Republican vote.
Here is the voter breakdown in each of the 10 towns:
Town
Bower
Drennan
Albion
257
261
Barre
98
94
Carlton
160
144
Clarendon
201
119
Gaines
109
127
Kendall
58
168
Murray
251
105
Ridgeway
140
154
Shelby
173
258
Yates
141
131
Total
1,588
1,561
Source: Orleans County Board of Elections
Bower is a public safety dispatcher who lives just outside the Village of Holley in Murray. His 146-vote lead in Murray was the biggest difference in any of the 10 towns.
However, Drennan was the most dominant in any town with his showing in Kendall, his hometown. Drennan, the chief deputy in the Sheriff’s Office, won 74.3 percent or 168 of the 226 votes in Kendall.
In Murray, Bower won 70.5 percent of the vote. Bower had his second strongest showing in Clarendon, where he won 62.8 percent of the vote.
Both Bower and Drennan are from the eastern end of Orleans County. Drennan dominated Kendall, and Bower had big leads in Murray and Clarendon.
The central towns of Albion, Barre, Gaines and Carlton were all close.
Drennan was stronger than Bower in the west end, mainly due to a big showing in Shelby, where he got 60 percent of the vote. Yates and Ridgeway were almost evenly split.
The county Board of Elections has 233 absentee ballots out in the race and had received 157 by Thursday. The ballots will be counted Tuesday at 9 a.m., although more could come in by a Thursday deadline. The final results need to be certified on Friday, Sept. 18.
If you’re wondering about voter turnout for the Primary, it was 31.4 percent or 3,157 votes out of the 10,037 registered Republicans. That vote total includes eight write-ins.
