Press Release, Orleans County Legislature

Lynne Johnson

ALBION – The recently-enacted New York State budget gives Governor Kathy Hochul authorization to close three prisons in the state and Orleans County Legislature Chairman Lynne Johnson wants to make sure that the Orleans Correctional Facility and Albion Correctional Facility are not on that list.

Although the budget did not state which facilities could be closed, Johnson sent a letter to the Governor’s Fingers Lakes representative underscoring the importance of the two facilities to the community.

In the letter Johnson wrote, “According to the latest numbers released by the United State Census Bureau, Orleans County was fortunate to be one of a few upstate counties to actually see a population increase from 2023 to 2024. This modest gain could be wiped out with closing of our correctional facilities and a closure of either or both of these facilities would have very negative consequences for our community.”

Johnson continued, “These facilities employ many people who live in our community, who are raising families here, who coach our youth sports teams and serve on local boards. So, even as the Governor has stated no correctional employee will lose their job, their transfer to another facility out of our community will shrink our tax base and have a negative economic ripple felt by businesses across Orleans County.”

Johnson also stressed that the two correctional facilities represent one of the few state allocation of significant resources in Orleans County.

“There is also an issue of fairness when it comes to the state’s allocation of what I will call ‘institutional’ dollars,” she said. “Orleans County does not have a SUNY university, any state office buildings, or been the recipient of large-scale, state-supported economic development initiatives. The two correctional facilities are what drives state dollars into our county.”

The Governor has not released a timetable for any decisions.

Here is the letter dated May 15 to Mr. JW Cook, Fingers Lakes Regional Representative for the Office of the Governor:

Dear Mr. Cook:

As Chairman of the Orleans County Legislature, I write to you today regarding language included in the New York State budget to close three prisons. While there has been no public announcement on which prison will be closed, I am concerned that the two facilities in Orleans County – the Orleans Correctional Facility and the Albion Correctional Facility – could be at risk.

According to the latest numbers released by the United State Census Bureau, Orleans County was fortunate to be one of a few upstate counties to actually see a population increase from 2023 to 2024. This modest gain could be wiped out with closing of our correctional facilities and a closure of either or both of these facilities would have very negative consequences for our community.

These facilities employ many people who live in our community, who are raising families here, who coach our youth sports teams and serve on local boards. So, even as the Governor has stated no correctional employee will lose their job, their transfer to another facility out of our community will shrink our tax base and have a negative economic ripple felt by businesses across Orleans County.

It would also undoubtedly place further strain on our social services. Considering that the entire tax levy of Orleans County does not cover state mandated programs, we can ill afford any decline.

There is also an issue of fairness when it comes to the state’s allocation of what I will call “institutional” dollars. Orleans County does not have a SUNY university, any state office buildings, or been the recipient of large-scale, state-supported economic development initiatives. The two correctional facilities are what drives state dollars into our county.

Last, I question whether it is prudent to be closing any prisons given the most recent labor issues. We know corrections officers are overworked in very trying conditions in state prisons. So increasing the number of inmates at the remaining prisons, even if the number of corrections officers increases, would seem to be only making matters worse.

Orleans County has always been a welcoming community to corrections officers and their families. Orleans Correctional Facility and Albion Correctional Facility have long been part of our community. I hope this will matter as decisions are made about the futures of corrections facilities in the state. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Lynne Johnson, Chairman

Orleans County Legislature

Photos by Ginny Kropf: (Left) Kelly Anstey, Associate director of Day Services at ARC GLOW’s nutrition program, explains the role her agency plays in Meals on Wheels. (Right) Melissa Blanar, director of the Orleans County Office for the Aging, greets senior volunteer Ann McElwee of Medina and Bea Young, left, who nominated McElwee for volunteer recognition. Announcement was made at the OFA’s annual Spring Jubilee at the Orleans County 4-H Fairgrounds that McElwee had been chosen to represent Orleans County in Albany where an Outstanding Older Adult will be chosen for New York state.

KNOWLESVILLE – Every year the Orleans County Office for the Aging honors its volunteers at a Spring Jubilee at the Orleans County Fairgrounds. The event this year took place Friday in the Trolley Building at the 4-H Fairgrounds, where a full house of seniors enjoyed lunch, entertainment by The Uptown Groove, announcement of Senior-of-the-Year winners and drawings for prizes.

Orleans County OFA director Melissa Blanar told guests May is Older Americans Month and is a great opportunity to show appreciation for their seniors. This year also marks the 50th anniversary of the Orleans County OFA, she said.

Assistant director Megan Begins introduced the OFA staff and Advisory Council members.

Kelly Anstey, associate director of Day Services for the ARC GLOW nutrition program said it was a privilege to be there. She explained the ARC works with Meals on Wheels with Vicky Halvholm to provide nutritious meals to seniors at home, in addition to running nutrition sites in Albion and Kendall.

County Legislator John Fitzak reads a proclamation in tribute to the Orleans County OFA’s 50 years in existence, while director Melissa Blanar looks on.

Assemblyman Steve Hawley declared how happy he was to be there with all the older Americans, as he is now one of them. He shared highlights of the recently passed state budget, before presenting a citation to Ann McElwee as the volunteer who will represent Orleans County in Albany where an Outstanding Older Adult will be chosen from the entire state.

Hawley announced his annual Patriots’ Trip to Washington, D.C. is scheduled for Sept. 18 to 21, with the possibility of visiting the White House for the first time.

Blanar said she learned from Hawley that Orleans County’s aging services will be receiving some extra funding.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Orleans County OFA, and in honor of that, County Legislator John Fitzak read a proclamation paying tribute to 50 years of growth and support to seniors.

Assemblyman Steve Hawley presents volunteer Ann McElwee a citation for being chosen as Volunteer of the Year to represent Orleans County in Albany, where an Outstanding Older Adult of the Year will be chosen. OFA director Melissa Blanar is in the middle.

Highlight of the day was announcement of the selection of two outstanding volunteers – Ann McElwee, who was chosen by the Advisory Council to represent Orleans County in Albany for selection of the state’s Outstanding Older Adult of the Year; and Kathy Case, chosen as the Orleans County OFA Volunteer of the Year.

McElwee grew up in Medina, moving to Pennsylvania for college. After college she moved to Oklahoma to serve in Volunteers in Service to America for two years. She returned to Medina, where she has lived ever since.

McElwee worked for seven years at Head Start helping children and families in need. She retired from BOCES as a special education teacher with the Seek and Serve the Handicap program after 30 years of service.

She enjoys volunteering, spending time with friends and traveling.

Over the years, McElwee has volunteered for Hospice of Orleans, OCALS (Adult Learning Services), Lions Club, Medina’s food pantry, Professional Counseling Group working with families, Parents Anonymous, Rape Crisis and Job Corps. She also volunteers her time translating books into brail for the blind and visits friends and family who do not get out and about often.

Seeing her volunteer work as a way to stay active and involved, McElwee says volunteering is “the right thing to do,” an ethic she was taught growing up. She is now living what she learned from her parents, she said.

“Having received so much in my life, it is important to give back,” she said.

“I am very honored and full of pride to be nominated for this,” McElwee said. “I am only doing the things I like to do.”

Bruce Schmidt is in the Lions Club with McElwee, and said she does a lot for them. He also shared how she goes to local farms to help farmworkers. She even takes some on trips to interesting places in the area.

“Her ESL students are so appreciative of her,” Schmidt said.

McElwee, who is 75, said she gets as much as she gives – and sometimes more.

The local OFA Aging Volunteer of the Year is Kathy Case, who was unable to attend Friday’s luncheon. Case volunteers twice a month for the Caregiver Connections Respite program, which provides four hours of respite for caregivers who have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia. It takes a special volunteer to help with this program, as it is a demanding role to keep the clients occupied, Blanar said.

Case also volunteers her time monthly to help prepare the Friendly Carrier newsletter which goes to more than 3,300 people.

“We appreciate the time Kathy dedicates to our programs,” Blanar said.

The theme nationwide for Older American’s Month 2025 is “Flip the Script on Aging,” focusing on transforming how society perceives, talks about and approaches aging. Individuals and communities are encouraged to challenge stereotypes and dispel misconceptions. The observance is led by the Administration for Community Living. The public is invited to join them in honoring older adults’ contributions, exploring the many opportunities for staying active and engaged as they age and highlighting the opportunities for purpose, exploration and connection which come with aging.

The Orleans County OFA invites residents to visit them on Facebook or online at www.orleanscountyny.gov/officefortheaging; and to contribute by volunteering their time to the local OFA office or other community agency; and/or make monetary donations to help support the office and programs.

Friday’s celebration was funded by the New York State Office for the Aging, Administration of Community Living and Orleans County legislature.  The OFA also acknowledges Cornell Cooperative Extension for use of the building, ARC GLOW and local businesses who donated prizes for giveaways.

Megan Bevins, assistant director of the Orleans County OFA, introduces entertainers The Uptown Groove at Friday’s annual Spring Jubilee to recognize seniors.

Provided photos: Orleans County Historian Catherine Cooper colors the first Flat Orly as part of a new project to help celebrate Orleans County’s 200th anniversary this year. Orly is the county’s bicentennial mascot. Lee-Whedon Memorial Library in Medina displays a Flat Orly. The local libraries will have Flat Orly sheets available for the public. The design also can be downloaded from the Orleans County Tourism website.

MEDINA – Orly the Ox has been busy highlighting local historical sites and other popular places in Orleans County this year.

Now the public can join the fun by coloring a picture of Orly and taking him to their favorite place sin Orleans County and beyond.

This life-size cutout of Orly the Ox also is on display at the Lee-Whedon Memorial Library. Other cutouts of Orly will be available in the county, especially at upcoming concerts and some other events.

Orly’s adventures have been chronicled on the Orleans County Tourism’s social media pages. Orly also has his own TikTok. Today he was shown at the original Erie Canal loop in Holley to help highlight opening day of a new season for the Erie Canal, which is also celebrating its 200^th anniversary in 2025.

The Orleans County Bicentennial Committee and the County Tourism Department teamed to create a “Flat Orly” like the Flat Stanley projects that are popular for elementary kids around the world. Kids decorate a “Flat Stanley” and take him on trips or send to friends and family to take on adventures.

“Flat Orly offers a creative way for people of all ages to take part in the bicentennial celebration and express their community pride,” the County Tourism Department declared in announcing Flat Orly today. “Participants are encouraged to bring Flat Orly along on local outings or even on trips beyond the county.”

Catherine Cooper, Orleans County historian and chairwoman of the Bicentennial Committee, was the first to color a Flat Orly.

“It’s an activity that is open to people of all ages,” Cooper said. “It can release your inner child. Everybody loves to color. It will be fascinating to see where Orly travels.”

Flat Orly cutouts and instruction sheets are available at the four public libraries in Orleans County: Lee-Whedon, Hoag Library in Albion, Community Free Library in Holley and Yates Community Library in Lyndonville.

A printable PDF also is available by clicking here.

People are encouraged to post their Flat Orly at their favorite places in Orleans County and beyond the county borders.

“Whether it’s a local landmark, a park or a family trip, Orly is ready to explore,” states the instruction sheet for Flat Orly.

People are encouraged to take a photo of themselves with Flat Orly or just Orly at the locations, and then post on social media, tagging Orleans County Tourism and using the hashtags: #OrlytheOx and #Orly’sAdventures.

The Flat Orly campaign will run through the remainder of the bicentennial year in 2025. Call the county tourism office at (585) 589-3100 or visit OrleansNY200.com for more information.

Rendering by Red Green Design: The three-story GO Barn! building would have the look of a barn, with the silo having an elevator and stairs to access the three floors. GO Art! said the facility would boost arts programs, agricultural education and entrepreneurial initiatives.

Gov. Kathy Hochul has announced two major grants in Orleans County for arts and cultural projects.

The Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council was approved for a $7,793,000 grant towards the “GO Barn!” at the 4-H Fairgrounds in Knowlesville.

The Cobblestone Museum also was approved for $716,000 towards a visitor’s center at the corner of routes 98 and 104 in Gaines. That new visitor’s center would go next to a brick house from the 1830s.

The two grants are among 134 arts and cultural grants totalling $86 million. Hochul said 75 percent of grants have been awarded to smaller arts organizations and communities outside of New York City.

“Our arts and culture sector is a powerhouse, inspiring the world with innovation and creativity,” Governor Hochul said in a press release. “By investing in our museums, our theaters and our arts centers, we enrich our communities, strengthen local economies and improve tourism all over the State.”

GO Art! is proposing the new building at the fairgrounds to serve as a dynamic hub for arts, culture, and community engagement in Orleans County, including: a multipurpose arts and cultural center inspired by the historic Wells Barn design; a dedicated space for fiber arts, workshops, and artisan programming; and a greenhouse, designed to grow plants for fabric dyeing and art creation.

The building is planned for the west end of the fairgrounds near Taylor Hill Road. The fairgrounds is an ideal location for the cultural center, located between Medina and Albion, Gregory Hallock, GO Art! executive director, said during a meeting on Oct. 29 about the project

“It will be a dynamic cultural community hub designed to bring arts, agricultural education, and entrepreneurial opportunities together under one roof,” he said then.

The building would have flexible or adaptable space that could be used for many things. Hallock and Go Art! envision two art galleries, artist studios and a residence where artists could bunk instead of driving home in the wee hours of the night. Hallock would like to the building to be used for many art forms – culinary, folk, horticultural, literary, visual, muli-media and more.

The facility would be accessible and inclusive to all community members, Hallock said. The GO Barn! would have hands-on programs in arts, agriculture and sustainability that would provide workforce readiness. Hallock said GO Art! wants to partner with local schools and organizations in “fostering a lifelong learning environment.”

This rendering shows the new visitor’s center for the Cobblestone Museum, left, which would be next to a historic brick home from the 1830s.

The state approved $716,000 for the Thompson-Kast Visitors Center at the Cobblestone Museum.

Museum director Doug Farley said construction will start soon on the project, which already has met an initial fundraising goal of $750,000 from the local community. The new building will be by the south end of a 1830s brick home, which the Cobblestone Society purchased as a visitors center. The addition will provide meeting space for 100 people.

The visitor’s center expand on the museum’s our campus of historic buildings.

The project, according to the museum, offers the following benefits for the community:

• Preservation of a 19th century structure from unrelated commercial activity
• High visibility at an essential crossroads location
• Plentiful additional parking including buses
• Expanding programming and visitation with year-round access
• Kitchenette for use by caterers or small receptions
• Multi-purpose room
• Room to partner with Orleans County Tourism
• New exhibit space to interpret Orleans County history
• Space for viewing an introductory video and new cobblestone interactive exhibits
• Distribute materials for all local attractions including the Medina Railroad Museum, Erie Canal, Point Breeze Lighthouse, camp grounds, marinas, Bed & Breakfast sites, sport fishing, agri-business, wine trail and more

Provided photo: Undersheriff Don Draper, left, and Sheriff Chris Bourke, right, congratulate Torry Tooley, second from left, and James White on being promoted to sergeants.

Press Release, Sheriff Christopher Bourke

ALBION – Sheriff Christopher Bourke is pleased to announce the promotions of Deputies Torry Tooley and James White to the rank of Sergeant.

Sergeant Tooley is a 16-year law enforcement veteran. He is a NYS DCJS general topics instructor, firearms instructor, advanced firearms instructor, patrol rifle and defensive tactics instructor, and a DCJS certified SWAT Operator and Tactical Team Leader.

In addition to his training and experience, Sergeant Tooley holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from SUNY Brockport. Sergeant Tooley will be assigned to the day shift and Commander of the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office Special Response Team.

Sergeant White is a 4.5-year veteran of the Sheriff’s Office Road Patrol. Before joining the Road Patrol, he served as a Seasonal Deputy Sheriff, a Sheriff’s Office Corrections Officer, and an Orleans County Probation Officer.

He is certified as a Field Training Officer, General Topics Instructor, Breath Analysis Instructor, Fundamentals of Crisis Intervention Instructor, and Project Lifesaver Instructor. In addition to his training and experience, Sergeant White holds both a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Management and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from D’Youville University. Sergeant White will lead our midnight shift.

Please join us in congratulating Sergeant Torry Tooley and Sergeant James White on their well-deserved promotions!

Provided photos: Shown with 30 bags of fire safety products presented by United Way to Orleans County Office for the Aging on Friday are, from left, Nyla Gaylord, executive director of United Way; Samantha Koons, Aging Services specialist at Orleans County OFA; and Meghan Bevins, assistant director of the OFA.

Volunteers at United Way’s Day of Caring on Friday packed 45 bags containing fire protection and prevention items purchased with a grant from Heritage Wind. From left are Kathleen Bates with the Orleans County Office for the Aging; and volunteers from Takeform, Ellen Eaton and Jim Waters.

ALBION – A recent string of house fires in Orleans County has prompted United Way of Orleans County to apply for (and receive) a $3,000 grant from Heritage Wind to purchase fire extinguishers and smoke detectors.

“We wanted to make sure the most vulnerable segment of the population – the aging and disabled – are protected,” said Nyla Gaylord, executive director of United Way of Orleans County. “Office for the Aging staff have voiced concerns that many older adults are lacking basic fire protection products, such as fire extinguishers and smoke detectors, because they can’t easily afford them.”

On Friday, during United Way’s annual Day of Caring, Gaylord and volunteers from Takeform delivered 30 of 45 bags with fire protection and prevention items to the Office for the Aging.

Ellen Eaton, Human Resources director at Takeform, and Jim Waters unpacked 10 boxes of products and organized and assembled the bags, Gaylord said.

Each bag contained a smoke alarm, a CO2 alarm, a fire extinguisher and a fire extinguishing blanket. The remaining bags will be donated to Adult Protective workers.

Photos by Ginny Kropf: Nyla Gaylord, director of United Way of Orleans County, welcomes volunteers for annual Day of Caring Friday morning at the Orleans County 4-H Fairgrounds.

KNOWLESVILLE – A group of nearly three dozen volunteers stepped up on Friday to offer their services to eight charitable causes for the annual Day of Caring, sponsored by United Way of Orleans County.

United Way’s executive director Nyla Gaylord welcomed the volunteers at the Orleans County Fairgrounds, who were treated to breakfast pizza, coffee and donuts before embarking on their day’s assignments.

“Your volunteering today is another way to enhance your donations to United Way,” Gaylord told the volunteers gathered at the fairgrounds. “Every dollar we raise goes to help make our community better.”

Robert Batt, front, executive director of Orleans County Cornell Cooperative Extension, loads gardening supplies in his vehicle for volunteers Steve Stringham and Aiden Cherry from Arc GLOW on Friday at the Orleans County 4-H Fairgrounds.

As in past years, the majority of volunteers came from Baxter Healthcare, Velociti and Takeform, along with Orleans Mental Health, The Arc and Connie Brunnette.

After breakfast and a thank you from Gaylord, the volunteers embarked on their assignments, which included mulching and weeding at Arc Glow; garden projects at Cornell Cooperative Extension; making Christmas ornaments for GO Art! at Cooperative Extension’s Education building; painting and cleanup at Camp Rainbow; card making and gardening at Hospice of Orleans County, creek bank cleanup and bushwhacking for Boy Scouts of America; planting bushes and plants at P’Raising Kids; staining a fence at Care Net; and sorting and delivering fire extinguishers to the Office for the Aging.

Cousins Miranda Reamer and Anna Kurman from Velociti wait for breakfast pizza before embarking on their volunteer assignments at Day of Caring. The two also volunteered last year and came back to help again.

After enjoying breakfast pizza, volunteers were sent off with snacks and a bottle of water.

Cousins Miranda Reamer and Anna Kurman, both employees of Velociti, said they had volunteered last year and came back again because they enjoyed helping people. Last year they did landscaping at a doctor’s office in Medina, and this year they were going to Hospice to make greeting cards and do landscaping.

“We volunteered because this is a nice way to get out and give back to our community,” Kurman said.

“We work from home, so this is a great opportunity to get out in the air,” Reamer said.

Karen Krug, who volunteered from Orleans Mental Health with Melinda Rhim and Jessica Kincaid, said she volunteers because she knows the work United Way does in the county.

“Giving has to come from all avenues,” Krug said. “It’s this kind of stuff you show up for, and it’s very fulfilling.”

Krug said Rhim had requested they be assigned to Camp Rainbow, where they were going to paint and do cleanup.

“It’s nice to go back to the same location, because now we know what to do,” Krug said.

Rhim said she has been volunteering for Day of Caring for many years.

“I was on the board of United Way for 10 years and have done all kinds of projects for them,” Rhim said. “This is our third year at Camp Rainbow. I feel it’s a hidden gem. We feel the gratitude when we’re getting it ready for the kids.”

Ryin Moriarity, an employee from Baxter, said this was her second year volunteering. They were going to the YMCA in Medina.

“They need a lot of landscaping and we have a large group and wanted to stick together,” Moriarity said.

Jodi Fisher, program director and State-Wide Community Regrant coordinator at Go Art!, came to Day of Caring at Cooperative Extension to paint light bulbs for Christmas ornaments, which are sold as a fundraiser.

Gaylord shared news of a $3,000 grant United Way received from Heritage Wind to buy fire extinguishers and smoke alarms. She said this was a result of the frequency of house fires in the area, and United Way wanted to make sure the most vulnerable (aging and disabled) were protected. Volunteers assisted in delivering them to the Office for the Aging later in the morning.

At the fairgrounds, Cooperative Extension director Robert Batt loaded gardening tools for volunteers Steve Stringham and Aiden Cherry from The Arc, who were going to do gardening projects.

“We are doing a hedge row garden and the Master Gardeners need some help getting it prepped today,” Batt said.

Volunteers lined up Friday morning to get their assignments for Day of Caring. Thirty-four volunteers from local businesses donated their time on Friday to help charitable causes.

Photo by Tom Rivers: The Orleans County Public Safety Building, which opened in 1998 at a former furniture store building, needs roof repairs and other upgrades. Congresswoman Claudia Tenney is again seeking $2 million in federal funds towards the project.

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) announced 15 projects she has submitted to the House Appropriations Committee in the Fiscal Year 2026 Community Project Funding process, including $2 million towards a new roof for the Orleans County Public Safety Building.

The CPF process allows municipalities and non-profits to submit federal funding requests for high-priority community projects with strong local support in New York’s 24th Congressional District, Tenney’s office said.

Each application was subjected to a rigorous review process to ensure that it is a sound use of taxpayer dollars and that applicants have a clear and accountable plan to spend funds on targeted projects within a year, Tenney said.

In Orleans County, county officials are seeking $2 million for the Public Safety Building for “vital improvements for safety and security.” Tenney also sought the $2 million last year.

“We very much appreciate the fact that Congresswoman Tenney recognizes the infrastructure needs of local governments and is working to secure $2 million in funding for the Orleans County Public Safety Building,” said Lynne Johnson, Orleans County Legislature Chairman. “Fixing a roof may be not be the most exciting project, but it was very necessary to maintaining that building and ensuring safe working conditions for our public safety team. We are very thankful Congresswoman Tenney delivered for us.”

A list of Tenney’s submitted FY26 projects also include:

• $2 million for the City of Lockport’s Phase III – Erie Canal Flight of Five Locks
• $1 million for the City of Oswego Police Department’s New Police Station
• $4,275,000 for Jefferson County’s Installation of Runway 10 Omni-Directional Approach Lights at Watertown International Airport
• $2 million for Schuyler County’s Emergency Operations Center
• $5 million for the Town of Lyons’ Resurgence of the Town of Lyons Canal Street District
• $3,300,000 for the Town of Phelps’ Sanitary Sewer Distribution Project
• $1 million for the Town of Throop’s Water Improvements Project
• $2,475,000 for the Town of Torrey’s Water District #2 Resource Improvements
• $10 million for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ work on Genesee County’s water needs
• $3 million for the Village of Geneseo’s Water and Sewer System Improvements
• $1,500,000 for the Village of Mexico’s Water System Improvements
• $3 million for the Village of Waterloo’s Sewer System Improvements and Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades
• $4 million for Wayne County’s Rural Health Services Building Renovation
• $3 million for Wyoming County’s Silver Lake Dredging Project

“The Community Project Funding Process allows Congress to hear directly from municipalities and community leaders about their needs,” Tenney said. “This year, I submitted 15 projects on behalf of our district to improve essential infrastructure, enhance public safety, and revitalize our local communities. I remain committed to advocating for these projects throughout the appropriations process and will continue to be a strong voice for protecting your hard-earned tax dollars while representing our district in Congress.”

Press Release and photo from Orleans County Sheriff’s Office

ALBION – K9 Odin in the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office has received a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.

K9 Odin’s vest was sponsored by Karla Kimmey of Charlotte, FL and embroidered with the sentiment, “In memory of Zayla.”

Vested Interest in K9s was established in 2009 and is a 501(c)(3) charity with a mission to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States.

This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted, and National Institute of Justice certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, has provided over 6,030 vests valued at $6.9 million to K9s in all 50 states made possible by both private and corporate donations.

The program is open to U.S. dogs at least 20 months old and actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. K9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the United States.

Vested Interest in K9s accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while a single donation of $1,050 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1,800, weighs an average of 4-5 lbs., and comes with a five-year warranty.

For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call (508) 824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events, and accepts donations at www.vik9s.org, or you may mail your contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.

ALBION – The New York State Association of Counties on Monday highlighted Kim DeFrank as part of NYSAC’s weekly “Member Monday” feature.

DeFrank is also president of the NYS Treasurers’ and Finance Officers’ Association. NYSAC noted she became treasurer in 2018 after 25 years in the treasurer’s office.

“During her tenure she has led the county to receive four consecutive three+one advisors 90+ awards for exemplary leadership in public finance liquidity management,” NYSAC stated. “Congratulations Kimberly and thank you for the work that you and your colleagues do to safeguard taxpayer dollars and strengthen our counties!”

Travel powers the economy, connects America

File photo by Tom Rivers: A kid is excited to see a big barge moving part of a bridge on the Erie Canal in Holley last July 15. The barge was headed west with the Bennetts Corners Road bridge in the background. The Erie Canal and Orleans County are both celebrating their 200th anniversaries this year.

Press Release, Orleans County Tourism

ALBION – Orleans County Tourism is proud to take part in National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), which runs from May 4-11. The goal is to shine a spotlight on the U.S. travel industry’s essential role in driving economic growth, creating jobs and enhancing the nation’s global competitiveness.

“Travel is one of our nation’s most powerful economic engines—supporting millions of jobs, fueling businesses and propelling industries forward,” said U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Geoff Freeman. “National Travel and Tourism Week reinforces the pivotal role travel plays in building a stronger, more prosperous America.”

Since 1983, National Travel and Tourism Week has highlighted the travel industry’s contribution to U.S. economic strength, community vitality and quality of life. In 2024, the travel industry generated $2.9 trillion in economic output, supported more than 15 million jobs and produced $190 billion in tax revenue, equivalent to $1,490 per household.

Locally, Orleans County continues to see strong results from tourism. The county’s bed tax revenues topped $100,000 for the third consecutive year in 2024, reaching $116,712. That total is just shy of the all-time high of $119,003 in 2023. Orleans County first surpassed the $100,000 mark in 2022, collecting $111,548 in bed tax revenue.

Tourism in Orleans County is driven by unique regional assets, including world-class sportfishing on Lake Ontario, the historic Erie Canal Trail and destinations like the Medina Railroad Museum, Oak Orchard Lighthouse Museum and the Cobblestone Museum.

Sportfishing alone generates an estimated $28 million annually in the county, according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s 2017 Angler Survey. Out-of-state anglers account for 70 percent of the fishing economic output in Orleans County, $19,620,488 of the $27,989,393. County residents who fish accounted for $1,767,334 in economic activity while other New York state residents outside Orleans represented another $6,601,571.

This year also marks a major milestone: the bicentennials of both Orleans County and the Erie Canal. With a full slate of summer events planned to celebrate 200 years of local and state history, the Orleans County Tourism Office aims to attract even more visitors in 2025.

“Travel drives economic opportunity and strengthens our community,” said Dawn Borchert, director of Orleans County Tourism. “This National Travel and Tourism Week, we celebrate travel’s undeniable impact and reaffirm its importance in shaping our local economy and quality of life. We’re especially excited to welcome visitors as we celebrate these significant bicentennial anniversaries.”

Visit ustravel.org/NTTW to learn more about National Travel and Tourism Week.

About Orleans County Tourism

Orleans County Tourism is the tourism promotion agency for Orleans County, New York, dedicated to promoting the county’s unique attractions, events and experiences to visitors from near and far.

Situated between Rochester and Niagara Falls, the county offers a blend of rural charm, scenic waterfronts and rich heritage. The office also supports local festivals, agritourism and community initiatives that strengthen the area’s appeal as a year-round destination. With a focus on economic growth through travel, Orleans County Tourism works to boost visitor spending, support small businesses and share the stories that make the region special.

Photo by Tom Rivers: Laura Bentley, second from left in back, gives the Albion Rotary Club a tour of the Fairhaven Inn last Thursday. Fairhaven offers eight rooms on Ridge Road next to the Tavern on the Ridge, the former Village Inn. Rotary members Dick Remley, Marlene Seielstad and Don Bishop were among those on the tour.

ALBION – Orleans County saw its bed tax revenues top $100,000 for the third straight year in 2024.

The total at $116,712 is just below the $119,003 in 2023, which is the county’s all-time high. Orleans first topped $100,000 in 2022 with $111,548.

There are about 200 rooms for rent in the county, including at hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and short-term rentals.

Dawn Borchert, the county’s tourism director, said the county could use more rooms, especially near Lake Ontario where many fishermen come to catch Chinook salmon, brown trout, steelhead and other big fish.

“We are losing hotel rooms to Batavia and Corfu,” Borchert said. “People want to be closer to the water and not have to get up so early. The vibe I have here is people are full, they’re booked.”

Many of the fishermen are up before the crack of dawn to go fishing at Lake Ontario and the tributaries. They don’t want to have to drive more than a half hour from Genesee County.

Orleans County imposes a 4 percent bed tax on top of the 8 percent sales tax.

Before reaching $100,000 in bed tax in 2022, the county’s revenue was $79,102 in 2021, $58,438 in 2020, $58,424 in 2019, $51,002 in 2018 and $45,374 in 2017, according to data from the county treasurer’s office.

The revenue has been up since the 58-room Comfort Inn & Suites in Medina opened on March 18, 2022. There also have been numerous new short-term rentals available as Airbnbs. Bent’s Opera House also opened 10 hotel rooms in 2021.

The county sets aside the bed tax to fund tourism department and initiatives to bring in visitors. The increase in funds allowed the county to hire a sportsfishing coordinator in December 2022, filling a position that had been vacant for nearly five years. Ron Bierstine promotes the county’s top tourism draw of sportsfishing attending more of fishing shows, including in Pennsylvania and Ohio.

The county also has stepped up its digital advertising on Facebook to promote events in Orleans to attract more visitors to the area. The tourism department promotes local festivities, museums and other attractions.

Sportsfishing has a total economic impact of $28 million in Orleans County, according to the NY State DEC Anglers Survey for 2017. Out-of-state anglers account for 70 percent of the fishing economic output in Orleans County, $19,620,488 of the $27,989,393. County residents who fish accounted for $1,767,334 in economic activity while other New York state residents outside Orleans represented another $6,601,571.

Orleans County is off to a strong start with sales tax growth in the first quarter of 2025 at 9.2 percent, from $5.39 million to $5.88 million.

That is among the biggest percentage increases in the state, topped only by Chenango County at 11.8%, Delaware County at 10.4%, Yates (9.9%), Broome (9.8%) and Lewis (9.4%).

Among the rural GLOW counties, Orleans saw the biggest percentage increase at 9.2% with Genesee up 3.7%, from $12.47 million to $12.93 million.

Livingston and Wyoming both saw decreases with Wyoming down 1.1% (from $6.03 to $5.96 million) and Livingston down 0.8% (from $10.81 to $10.73 million).

The big jump in revenue for the quarter follows a modest increase for the county in 2024, when the local sales tax went up 1.4 percent from $23.10 million to $23.42 million, according to the state comptroller’s office.

The Orleans County Legislature allocates $1,366,671 of the local share to towns and villages. That collective amount – 5.8 percent of the total in 2024 – has not been increased since 2001. The towns and villages have requested more of the local sales tax to help pay for services at the town and village levels.

Local government sales tax collections totaled $5.8 billion in the first quarter, an increase of 3.2% ($180 million) compared to the same quarter last year, State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli reported last week.

Each of the 10 regions in the state, including New York City, had a year-over-year increase in collections.

 “Local sales tax collections grew in the first quarter compared to last year, but this growth could be threatened by economic disruptions and uncertainty,” DiNapoli said. “I encourage local officials to take advantage of the financial tools and guidance my office offers to help shore up their finances and build resilience against the challenging headwinds we face.”

Press Release, Orleans County Mental Health Department

ALBION – The Orleans County Mental Health Department is partnering with the Genesee County Mental Health Department and research organization NORC at the University at Chicago to conduct listening sessions and surveys to gather additional information from our community members surrounding mental health, suicide, substance use, associated resources, needs, and the associated stigma. Participation is open to any interested residents.

“Many individuals in Genesee and Orleans Counties are affected by substance use, addiction, mental health and suicide, and we are seeking input from residents so that we can better serve our community,” said Danielle Figura, director of the Orleans County Mental Health Department.

Figura said residents are invited to participate in a 60-to-90-minute listening session, via Zoom, which will be conducted by NORC, considered one of the leading, non-partisan research organizations in the country.

Participants will be asked about their views on overdose and suicide in our community, programs and resources, and additional support needed. Sessions will be held for all community members and for specific professional roles (i.e., business owners, school professionals, health or behavioral health professionals, legislators and government officials, faith-based leaders, CARES Alliance members, first responders.)

If interested, click here or use the QR code to complete the interest form.

Press Release, Orleans County Youth Bureau

ALBION – The Orleans County Youth Bureau announced it has extended the deadline for nominations for its 43rd Annual Youth Recognition awards.

The purpose of these awards is to recognize those youth who have performed outstanding service for our community and/or have assumed an extraordinary role within their families by helping to support themselves.  The deadline is now Thursday, May 1.

“Many older adults often hold negative perceptions of today’s youth, when in fact, there are some young people doing some very extraordinary things in service of others,” said Jack Welch, chief administrative officer for Orleans County.  “Our youth awards want to shine the spotlight on these young men and women and let the community know of their great work.”

Anyone is welcome to nominate a candidate, but nominations from family members must be accompanied by a supporting recommendation from a non-family member. Nominees must reside in an Orleans County school district and be a minimum of 14 years of age and under the age of 21 before June 30th.

In addition to the youth recognition awards, the Youth Bureau is also accepting nominations for the Helen Brinsmaid Award, given to an Orleans County youth-serving professional, in a paid position, whose work surpasses normal expectations, and the Eileen Heye Adult Volunteer Recognition Award, presented to an adult who serves the youth of Orleans County in a volunteer setting.

“We also want to honor the wonderful adults who are really making a difference in working with our young people,” said Welch.  “Let’s not forget, they are mentoring those who will one day assume leadership roles in our community.”

All nomination forms can be found by clicking here.

For information about the awards, contact the Youth Bureau at 585-589-7053 or email OrleansCountyYouthBureau@OrleanscountyNY.gov.