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Inmate assaults 5 staff members at Orleans Correctional Facility

Posted 13 February 2023 at 8:49 pm

Press Release, NYS Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association

ALBION –  A 45-year-old inmate who was already being housed in the Residential Rehabilitation Unit (RRU), sucker-punched an officer in the face as the inmate was being escorted to the visit room at the medium security correctional facility on Saturday.

The inmate was being processed in the visit room when he struck the escorting officer in the face during an unprovoked attack, NYSCOPBA officials said in a news release. Two nearby officers immediately responded to the attack as the inmate continued to be combative with staff.

OC spray was administered to the inmate, but the scuffle continued to the floor. Two other officers responded and utilized body holds to the still combative inmate. Ultimately, officers were able to gain control of the inmate’s arms and place him in wrist restraints. Once in handcuffs, the inmate became compliant and was escorted to be decontaminated and checked out by medical staff.

The initial officer in the attack sustained swelling and bruising in his face and jaw, pain in his shoulder and potential inner ear damage. One of the other responding officers noted shoulder and wrist pain. Both were transported to an outside hospital for further evaluation. The initial officer who was sucker-punched in the face by the inmate has been unable to return to work due to his injuries.

The other three officers were treated by facility medical staff for a variety of abrasions and scratches, and remained on duty.

The inmate is serving a 12-year sentence after being convicted in Erie County in 2016 for drug possession. He previously served 12 years in prison after being convicted of assault, robbery, and criminal possession of a weapon in 1998.

“Another day, another officer assaulted in our state prison system. This time it’s Orleans Correctional Facility’s turn where five officers were injured in an unprovoked attack,” said stated Kenny Gold, NYSCOPBA Western Region Vice President.

“Last week, NYS Legislators claimed they haven’t seen data indicating a rise in violence in our RRU’s since HALT,” Gold said. “Well look no further. This inmate, who was already being housed in the RRU and was on his way to the visiting room, punched an officer in the face rather than spend time with his loved ones. The message couldn’t be clearer. Certain individuals in the incarcerated community know that with the HALT Act in place, there are no significant consequences for violent behavior, and they are taking full advantage.”

Refill With Randy

Posted 12 February 2023 at 3:00 pm

Good morning! Grab your favorite cup. Fill it up. And let’s start this day right… TOGETHER!

That was the tagline for a series of videos that I began posting on YouTube back in October 2019 titled, “Refill with Randy”. In each episode my goal was to inspire others by sharing personal insights from my life and ministry, as well as highlighting some great things happening in our community, and was often joined by others over a cup of coffee.  Now, 80 videos and a blog later, I will be bringing “Refill with Randy” to the Orleans Hub and Pennysaver. Some things will change, “Let’s start this day week right… TOGETHER!!!  but my aim to inspire others remains the same.

Pauline Bachorski back, right

As I start this new endeavor I thought I should share a little about myself and my motivation for doing this. Back in the spring of 2004 I was appointed as the Lead Pastor at Albion Free Methodist Church so, along with my wife, our 2-year-old daughter, and our 2-week-old son, I made the move from Niagara Falls to Orleans County and never looked back.

Since that time our family grew, as we welcomed two more girls to the mix, and our love for the people of this area grew as well. After over 15 years of pastoring at AFMC I felt God calling me out of the pulpit but not out of the area so, in the summer of 2019, I stepped out in faith and started Go Scatter Ministries. Since that time God has given me the opportunity to serve others in a variety of ways.

Pastor Randy LeBaron

In addition to speaking at several churches around the County and volunteering as a Care-Net Counselor, an Orleans County Sheriff’s Chaplain, and as a helper on the Hands 4 Hope Ministry Truck, I am also an active member of of P.A.C.T. (Pastors Aligned for Community Transformation), an Adjunct Professor at Robert’s Wesleyan University, and the Spiritual Care & Bereavement Coordinator for Supportive Care Orleans (Hospice). I am also adding Interim Pastor at Medina 1st Baptist Church to that list as of today.

I often joke about how many hats I wear but the reality is that each one represents a door that, when opened, has allowed me to meet and connect with so many  people. In doing so I have heard and seen many inspiring things and so my hope is to give you a glimpse of some of the good things I have gotten to experience on a regular basis. My hope is that these stories will fill you up—like a cup of coffee for your soul. So, on that note and with Valentine’s Day just around the corner, I wanted to highlight how some have chosen to help those who may be grieving the holiday rather than celebrating it. 

Annie Curfman, Alexa Suleski, Neveya Barnes

On January 31st my colleague at Supportive Care of Orleans (Hospice), Christine Fancher, and I were invited by Pauline Bachorski, the Service Unit Manager and Leader of Albion Girl Scout Troupes 82007 and 82261, to join them for their meeting that evening at North Point Chapel.

Upon arriving we were greeted by a large group of scouts, along with some parents and other leaders, and asked to share a little about Hospice. Afterward the girls went right to work making gifts to give to our patients at The Martin-Linsen Residence (Hospice Home).

Using everything from markers, stamps, glue, a cricut machine, and a whole lot of love, the girls made cards, envelopes, and even some crafty flowers, to serve as a reminder that each resident is being remembered and loved. Thank you girls!!!

Madison & Scarlett Smith

And, as appreciated as the gifts will be to those who may be experiencing their last Valentine’s Day, we at Supportive Care also wanted to do something for the many who are experiencing their first Valentine’s Day without their loved one.

To that end our Grief Support Group, which meets every second & fourth Tuesday of the month at the Albion 1st Baptist Church at 4 p.m., is going to change up the format for our next meeting on Tuesday, February 14th. After polling current members of the group my co-leader, Amanda Byron, and I decided that rather than sticking with with a typical session we would simply make our group a safe space where people could come play some games and enjoy some snacks together with others who are going through a similar experience.

So if you or someone you know is struggling with  grief and loss please know that the game night, as well as the regular group meetings, are open to anyone in the community and are free of charge. You may be experiencing Valentine’s Day very different this year but you don’t have to do it alone. 

See you in two weeks!
Pastor Randy

Emmalyn Curfman

Rosemary Kirby, Christine Fancher

Heartland Organics founder enjoying new career growing mushrooms

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 30 January 2023 at 9:04 am

Elaine Barnett touts mushrooms for nutrient, medicinal powers

Photos by Ginny Kropf: Elaine Barnett, founder of Heartland Organics at Johnson Creek, holds a bag of yellow mushrooms in the colonizing room where she grows a variety of mushrooms. On the left are black pearl mushrooms, with blue oyster mushrooms below. Her business is a favorite at Medina’s Canal Village Market, where she sells her wares every Saturday.

GASPORT – Elaine Barnett, 63, has always been a proponent of healthy living, leading her to a career as a holistic vet technician.

After inheriting her parents William and Helen Fink’s property at 8999 Ridge Rd. in Johnson Creek, she knew just what she wanted to do with it.

Elaine Barnett holds an agar plate where mushroom spores are placed to start growth before being placed in a jar of sterilized oats to continue the process.

The property in Niagara County had greenhouses, and although the buildings needed repair, she decided at the age of 58 to embark on a new career – growing mushrooms.

Barnett had married and raised six children, but after she and her husband separated, she went to work for a vet technician in Colden, where she still works several days a week.

“By growing mushrooms I saw the potential to re-build this property where I grew up,” she said.

She enrolled in Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Small Farm program online and learned how to grow mushrooms. She incorporated as a 501c3 because, as she put it, there aren’t enough places available for youth to come and learn.

Families, school children and Master Gardeners are all encouraged to come to Heartland Organics for a tour and learn how mushrooms grow.

It starts with a bag of oats, which are put in a quart jar and water added. A clone is taken from a mushroom and placed on an agar plate. When it starts to grow, it is transferred to the jar of sterilized grain, where it roots, or mycelium form. That, then, is transferred to five-pound bags of oats where colonization begins. The bags are placed in a temperature- and humidity-controlled room, where in two to three months, mushrooms are ready to harvest.

Barnett grows a variety of mushrooms, including Lion’s mane, black pearl, blue oyster, yellow oyster, maitake (known as Hen in the Woods because they grow wild under oak trees), shiitake and chestnut.

Chestnut mushrooms are sold to Harvest Restaurant at Bent’s Opera House in Medina, where chef Lionel Heydel uses them in his menus.

Besides being delicious to eat, mushrooms have wonderful medicinal value, Barnett said. She said they lower cholesterol and can raise or lower blood pressure.

Elaine Barnett looks over mushrooms growing in the colonizing room at Heartland Organics, 8999 Ridge Rd. in Johnson Creek. The room is temperature controlled and humidified.

She said Lion’s mane is known to repair and renew the neurons in the brain and there is some success in giving it to Parkinson’s patients and Alzheimer’s patients.

Barnett makes and sells a powder made from ground Lion’s mane, which can be added to coffee or any food. She sells one-pound bags of coffee with the Lion’s mane in it, and it cannot be detected.

When bags of mushrooms are fully colonized, they are cut from the bag and the mycelium becomes mulch in her organic garden.

Barnett has a small store on her property, where she sells locally made honey, soaps, beeswax mats, jewelry, coffee and, of course, mushrooms. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

She also sells her products every Saturday at the Canal Village Farmer’s Market in Medina and the Lockport market every other week.

Excess mushrooms are dehydrated and made into jerky or powder to use in coffee or recipes.

A mushroom breathes, just like a human, taking in oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide, Barnett said. That is why the colonizing room where they grow has to be ventilated to keep the air clean.

Heartland Organics welcomes volunteers to do hands-on work. They can be reached at heartlandorganics@yahoo.com.

(Left) A black pearl mushroom is ready to be harvested Heartland Organics in Johnson Creek.  (Right) A maitake mushroom, also known as “Hen of the Woods,” has amazing health benefits, according to Elaine Barnett, who owns Heartland Organics in Johnson Creek.

Arc GLOW hires PR director from Orleans County

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 18 January 2023 at 12:19 pm

BATAVIA – The four-county Arc GLOW has hired an Orleans County resident to serve a public relations director.

Lisa Bors

Lisa Bors will lead the agency’s efforts to increase community awareness and private support. Arc GLOW serves about 2,000 developmentally disabled residents in Genesee, Livingston, Orleans and Wyoming counties.

“Lisa has a lot of great energy and valuable experience,” said Martin Miskell, Arc GLOW executive director. “She’s a wonderful addition to our management team.”

Bors and her husband, Hans, reside in Orleans County. She earned an associate’s degree in non-profit management and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from SUNY Empire State College, and brings with her over 20 years of experience in public relations and development in higher education.

“Arc GLOW is an incredible, family-driven organization empowering people with disabilities of all ages to be valued members of the community,” Bors said. “I look forward to sharing our mission and vision and working to increase community awareness and private support.”

The position of public relations director coordinates efforts to educate community partners on services offered by Arc GLOW throughout all four counties; takes the lead on fundraising efforts through private donations, grant and foundation solicitation; builds meaningful connections with a variety of stakeholders to support the mission to encourage community members to take action, for example through attendance at events, donations, gifts and agency advocacy.

In 1923, ‘Poorhouse’ in Albion served 120 of county’s old, infirm and homeless

Photo from County Historian's Office: Inmates and staff of the Orleans County Poorhouse about 1900. The lady and gentleman with the bicycles are most likely Varnum and Grace Ludington. Mr. Ludington preceded Journal E. Salisbury as Superintendent of the Poor.

Posted 15 January 2023 at 8:27 pm

Male residents outnumbered females by 3 to 1; 23 deaths reported that year at site

By Catherine Cooper, Orleans County Historian

Illuminating Orleans, Vol. 3 No. 2

ALBION – “Superintendent of the Poor” and “Overseers of the Poor.” These quaint job titles were still in use in New York state 100 years ago, when care of the poor and indigent was considered a local responsibility.

The Orleans County Almshouse or “Poorhouse” was located on West County House Road in the Town of Albion. The three-story building built in 1878 accommodated 140 inmates (“inmates” was the term used at that time) and included a residence for the Supervisor who lived on-site. An infirmary was added in the early 1900s. People with a variety of needs and misfortunes were accommodated – paupers, the homeless, the abandoned, the old and the infirm who had no one to care for them.

The Orleans County Superintendent of the Poor in 1923 was Journal E. Salisbury, (R), Barre. His salary for this elected position was $1,300. He was responsible for maintaining the County Almshouse and coordinating the care of the poor of the county.

He was required to maintain records on each inmate, and report to both the State Board of Charities as well as the Orleans County Board of Supervisors, the forerunners of the Orleans County Legislature.

His annual report to the Board of Supervisors for 1923 is very detailed and includes personal information that is surprising to us in the age of HIPPA. The names and ages of the inmates from each town are listed, along with the number of nights they were cared for.

Town of Kendall

George G.* – 365 nights

George L.* – 23 nights

Laura P.* – 365 nights

(*Last names withheld)

In 1923, a total of 120 people were cared for, this included 17 people identified as “tramps.” Male residents outnumbered females by 3 to 1.

Twenty-three deaths were recorded:

Aged 90 to 100 – 3

Aged 80 to 90 – 9

Aged 70 to 80 – 4

Aged 60 to 70 – 4

Aged 50 to 60 – 3

The Towns were responsible for paying the expenses of the care for their residents. This example is for the charges incurred by the three inmates from the Town of Barre in 1923:

“121 days board at $1.3289289…………….$160.80

Physical Examination by Physicians………$41.00

Inmates in Outside Institutions…………….$604.36

TOTAL…………………………………….$806.16

Operating costs for the home and hospital in 1923 totaled $50,713.23. These included:

Food supplies………………$3,991.62

Wearing apparel……………$486.45

Caskets and burials………..$815.45

Heat, Light, Power…………$7,024.88

Labor………………………$7631.59

Able-bodied inmates worked on the 155-acre farm which produced food for the facility as well as a surplus which provided income. Three hundred fowl yielded 1,069 dozen eggs and 300 pounds of poultry meat. Twenty-three pigs yielded 7,295 pounds of pork. Potatoes and beans were grown, as well as a variety of vegetables and fruit.

Journal E. Salisbury was Superintendent of the Poor for nine years. He died in 1930 at age 60. He was succeeded by John Derrick.

As the state became more involved in health and welfare, the euphemisms “social services” and “social welfare” replaced the more direct “poor”, “poorhouse” and “pauper”.

(Source: Proceedings of the Board of Supervisors for Orleans County, 1923)

Contractors bring insights to building trades classes at O/N BOCES

Posted 10 January 2023 at 11:14 am

Provided photo: Brian Marek, a contractor from Northtowns Remodeling Corp., speaks with students in the building trades program at the Orleans/Niagara BOCES.

Press Release, Orleans/Niagara BOCES

MEDINA – The Orleans Career and Technical Education Center students heard from architect Paul Lang from Carmina Wood Design who have worked on numerous buildings such as factory conversions to newly built structures for a variety of public, private and institutional clients.

His company has worked on some of our region’s most challenging historic preservation endeavors, with over 30 executed National Registry listed sites to their credit. He has studied and taught in Rome and Panama.

“Paul specializes in taking old buildings and creating new multiuse spaces,” Mr. Anastasi said. “He specializes in old factories and making them new green/sustainable products. He talked about the techniques they use to make them perform similar to a brand-new building, but still maintain the building’s character and façade. They use similar equipment and practices that my students use and are learning about as we apply these similarly to our projects in our classroom.”

Residential contractor Brian Marek, from Northtowns Remodeling Corp, talked to not only Mr. Anastasi’s class, but to Electricity/Electronics students in Bill Leggett’s class and Computer Technology students in Paul Herrmann class as well.

Mr. Marek works locally and specializes in kitchens and baths. He has over 30 years in the business of building and remodeling and home improvements. Their specialty is remodeling outdated homes.

Mr. Marek talked to the students about how he started out in a career and technical education class similar to theirs and how he started his business. He talked about being your own boss and different projects he worked on throughout his career. His son Robert Bass, a Silicon Valley software engineer, joined his father and discussed how he uses computer technology and social media to market their company.

“I am so appreciative of Mr. Lang and Mr. Marek taking time out of their busy schedules and talking to our students,” Mr. Anastasi said. “The students get a lot out of interacting with professionals in different fields and for some it inspires them to go down a certain path with their careers.”

Tenney announces Congressional district offices, senior staff members in New York’s 24th

Posted 3 January 2023 at 2:42 pm

Press Release, Congresswoman Claudia Tenney

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY- 24) today announced the locations of her Washington, DC office as well as her district offices across New York’s newly drawn 24th Congressional District, which includes part of Orleans County.

Claudia Tenney

Tenney also highlighted her senior leadership team, which includes experienced caseworkers and public servants who will continue to provide top-tier constituent services and policy expertise to the residents of New York’s 24th District.

In addition to the office locations and satellite hours listed below, Congresswoman Tenney’s team of expert caseworkers will also host regular mobile office hours in communities across the 24th District to bring our assistance directly to the communities we serve. Mobile office hour sessions will be announced monthly on a rolling basis in all 12 counties of the 24th District.

Congresswoman Tenney previously represented the 22nd Congressional District for two terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. Following New York’s redistricting process, Tenney was re-elected for a third term in November representing the newly drawn 24th District, which now includes portions of the North Country, Central New York, the Finger Lakes, and Western New York. Tenney resides in Canandaigua.

“I made a commitment to the residents of New York’s 24th District that we would be ready to serve you on day one of the new Congress, and I am honored that we have made good on this promise. Our new office locations and excellent team of seasoned policy and customer service professionals will provide the highest level of support and care to every resident of the 24th District,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “Our commitment to this community is that we will serve transparently with honor, integrity, and compassion. We will provide top-tier constituent services and work proactively to address the full range of constituent needs and concerns while advancing policies that improve our region, uphold the Constitution, and make our nation stronger than ever.”

District Office Locations

Washington, DC Office

Address: 2349 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington DC 20515

Open Now: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Phone: 202-225-3665

Victor District Office

Address: 7171 Pittsford-Victor Road, Victor, NY 14564

Open Now: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Phone: 585-869-2060

Oswego District Office

Address: 46 E Bridge St, Oswego, NY 13126

Open Now: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Phone: 315-236-7088

Lockport District Office

Address: 75 Hawley Street Lockport, NY 14094.

Opening details will be announced in the coming days.

Watertown Satellite Hours

Address: 317 Washington Street, Suite 418, Watertown, NY 13601

Starting the week of January 9, Congresswoman Tenney’s team of expert caseworkers in partnership with New York State Senator-Elect Mark Walczyk’s office, will host satellite hours every Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Thursday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Senior Staff Appointments

  • Nick Stewart (Chief of Staff) – A lifelong Upstate New Yorker, Nick has more than ten years of public service experience at the federal level, a majority of which has been spent serving constituents of Central New York in the House of Representatives. Since 2020, he has served as Congresswoman Tenney’s Chief of Staff. Prior to this, Nick served in the Trump administration as a senior official at the State Department from 2017 to 2020.
  • Spencer Carr (Deputy Chief of Staff) – Spencer Carr is a lifelong Upstate New Yorker with years of experience working on behalf of New York families. He worked on Congresswoman Tenney’s campaign in 2018 and 2020 before serving as her Campaign Manager on her 2022 re-election campaign. A graduate of St. Lawrence University, Spencer also has experience working for Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (NY) and Congressman David Kustoff (TN).
  • Meg Deneen (Press Secretary) – Meg recently joined Congresswoman Tenney’s team and is ecstatic to serve the people of New York. Prior to joining Congresswoman Tenney’s team, Meg spent two years working for Congressman Mike Turner (OH) in communications and on his reelection campaign. Following her time with Congressman Turner, she was at the National Republican Congressional Committee. Meg is a graduate of the University of Dayton and is originally from Bloomington, IL.
  • George Iverson (Legislative Director) – After graduating with a B.A. in Physics and Classics from Colby College, George has worked in a variety of policy and operations roles in Congress. This includes serving the people of New York in Congresswoman Tenney’s first and second terms in Congress as the office’s Scheduler/Legislative Correspondent, then Legislative Assistant, and now Legislative Director. In the 118th Congress, George looks forward to continuing to assist Congresswoman Tenney in her service to the people of New York as their compassionate and tireless advocate in the House of Representatives.
  • Michael Stadelmaier (District Director) – With a family background of military service, Michael has dedicated his professional work to serving the people of Upstate New York. He has worked in Representative Tenney’s first and second terms in different roles. Before working for Congresswoman Tenney, Michael worked for the New York State Assembly and U.S. Senator John Cornyn. Michael earned a B.A. and MPA from the University of Texas at San Antonio.
  • Jason Phelps (Director of Constituent Services) – Born in Upstate New York, Jason started his congressional career with Congressman Sherwood Boehlert in his Utica District Office as a staff assistant, then moved to Washington, D.C. for three years. Following his return home to New York, he worked for Congressman Boehlert until his retirement, then-Congressman Michael Arcuri, Congressman Richard Hanna, Congresswoman Claudia Tenney, Congressman Anthony Brindisi, and Congresswoman Tenney as her Director of Constituent Services. Jason is an expert in a range of important casework services, especially assisting veterans. Over the last two decades, Jason has helped thousands of New Yorkers resolve cases with the federal government.
  • George McNerney (Western New York Regional Director) – is a lifelong Western New Yorker with several years of experience with the House of Representatives. In George’s previous roles as District Director for Congressman Chris Jacobs and Field Director for Congressman Chris Collins, George spent much of his time serving the constituents of Western New York.

Health Department highlights busy 2022, with pandemic response and more

Posted 30 December 2022 at 10:48 am

Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments

As we say goodbye to 2022, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) would like to wish you all a healthy and Happy New Year.

This was a full year for the Health Departments. Not only were staff involved in ongoing Covid-19 activities, Monkeypox (Mpox) and polio were added to the list of emerging issues. Staff were determined to keep working towards Public Health Accreditation (expected in 2023) and also kept many public services and operations running smoothly to help improve the health and well-being of residents.

• The Community Health Services staff have been working diligently, including remaining up-to-date on the evolution of the Covid-19 vaccination guidelines. Throughout 2022, immunization clinics (including Covid-19 and traditional), as well as outreach to migrant and seasonal farmworkers resulted in 3,212 vaccinations being administered. This includes 42 individuals who received post-exposure rabies treatment after being exposed to a confirmed or suspected rabid animal. Not including Covid-19, 472 communicable disease investigations were conducted. During the growing season, staff provided various healthcare services to 1,388 seasonal and migrant farmworkers on location to reduce barriers to receiving care.

• Public Health Emergency Preparedness started 2022 responding to a tidal wave of Covid-19 cases from the omicron variant. However, due to lower severity of this variant combined with increased immunity within the community, efforts to contain this variant began to lessen, and public health emergency preparedness eventually began focusing on risks associated with new infectious threats, which ranged from avian influenza and Ebola to Mpox and polio. Experience from Covid-19 response led to dramatic changes for Emergency Preparedness, including revision of major preparedness plans, re-organization of the medical reserve corps and revision of an emergency preparedness mobile app.

• Environmental Health staff continue to regulate permitted facilities throughout Genesee and Orleans Counties through compliance with the New York State (NYS) Sanitary Code. They help assure the community is safe from foodborne illnesses by conducting inspections of food service establishments. Staff also routinely inspect septic systems, monitor Public Water Supplies, enforce the NYS Clean Indoor Air Act, and offer free rabies clinics. The Lead Program continues to promote education and outreach to enhance lead poisoning prevention and promote testing of children for lead exposure. GO Health was awarded a second grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to expand an existing home-repair program to address lead hazards and prevent childhood lead poisoning throughout the entire Genesee, Livingston, Orleans and Wyoming (GLOW) region.

• Staff within our Children’s Programs work with families of our youngest children providing case management, education, support and referrals.  Some of the services children may need that are provided through this program are speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy and special education teacher services. Staff work closely with families to make sure children receive the services they need.

• The Public Health Education team spent a majority of the year developing the 2022-2024 Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming (GOW) Counties Community Health Assessment (CHA)/Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) and in partnership with local hospital systems, Community Services Plan (CSP). The team was also responsible for implementing the ‘Strengthening Capacity in Suicide, Overdose, and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE’s) Prevention for Local Health Departments’ technical assistance grant. This funding improved the internal capacity of GO Health to address the intersection of suicide, overdose and ACE’s and brought together community partners for a GOW Trauma & Resiliency Conference.

• Weights & Measures completed 470 inspections accounting for over 1,190 devices within the two counties. These tests involved pumping more than 26,000 gallons of fuel and using more than 5.9 million pounds of test weight ensuring all commercial weighing and measuring devices meet NYS standards. The department handled 13 complaint investigations, confirmed 591 package weights & 300 item prices, and collected 132 fuel samples confirming fuel sold within both counties met a variety of parameters. Since transitioning to a department of one in 2020, W&M has shown savings in excess of $150,000.

“It is our extreme pleasure to serve the residents of Genesee and Orleans Counties,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for GO Health. “We thank the Genesee and Orleans County Legislatures, the Board of Health, our community partners and other volunteers for their support and collaboration. We look forward to another productive year of improving the health and well-being of our community and wish everyone a safe, healthy, and happy New Year.”

For more information about GO Health programs, visit www.GOHealthNY.org.

Landscaping students at BOCES will build their own greenhouse

Provided photo: These students will help build a new greenhouse at the Orleans Career and Technical Education Center. Pictured from left, in front, include: Donald “Max” Sanney (Lockport), Hannah Feitshans (Lyndonville), Raiden Collins (Orleans Learning Center), Josiel Rodriguez (Lockport), teacher Jay Kaplewicz, Everett Stone (Newfane) and James Eckborg Jr. (Orleans Learning Center). Back: Dean Kirsch (Royalton-Hartland), Aaron Croop (Lockport) and Steven Cerros-Secore (Medina).

Posted 22 December 2022 at 12:37 pm

Press Release, Orleans/Niagara BOCES

MEDINA – Students in Jay Kaplewicz’s Horticulture, Landscaping and Small Engines program, at the Orleans Career and Technical Education Center, have been having fun building their new acquisition, a green house!

“The students are loving having an opportunity to have a hand in building something that they will use and will become a lasting part of the program,” he said. “We have used this project as a great opportunity to learn about building and land survey tools, construction and building methods, different types of greenhouse designs and materials, team work and cooperation.”

Once built the greenhouse will be an excellent place for students to learn about operation and maintenance of automated greenhouse control systems. Students will also have a place to learn about plant care, maintenance, hydroponic systems, growing food, plant propagation and many other topics that will prepare them to successfully enter the world of work in the greenhouse and nursery industry.

“We plan to grow food that can be used by our Culinary Arts and Animal Science classes and to highlight a farm to table experience,” said Mr. Kaplewicz. “The greenhouse will feature a variety of hydroponic systems, a hydroponic propagation station, a tree and shrub propagation area, and a rain water catchment system. This spring will be our plant sale class fundraiser which will be supported by this greenhouse.”

GCASA presents longevity awards to staff, honors longtime doctor

Posted 16 December 2022 at 4:44 pm

Dr. Bruce Baker said he strives to give ‘respect and dignity’ to people being treated for substance use disorders

Provided photo: GCASA honored Dr. Bruce Baker and presented longevity awards at its annual holiday luncheon at Terry Hills Restaurant. Seated from left are Danielle Ludeke, Dr. Baker and Kathy Hodgins. Standing, Rosalie Mangino-Crandall, Carol Nicometo, JoAnn Ryan, Diane Klos, Charlene Grimm, Lori Brade, Jordan Smart and Linda Ackley.

By Mike Pettinella, GCASA Publicist

BATAVIA – Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse leadership and staff on Wednesday afternoon celebrated Dr. Bruce Baker’s many years of dedicated service to the agency.

Chief Executive Officer John Bennett, at the organization’s annual holiday luncheon, applauded Baker’s work as GCASA’s medical director.

“Bruce has been a tremendous asset to our agency, helping hundreds of people in their efforts to overcome substance use disorder,” Bennett. “We are fortunate to have had him as part of our team and we wish him the best in his retirement.”

Bennett said that Baker shared his knowledge and compassion in a variety of roles for GCASA, including medical director, consultant, teacher and general practitioner.

A physician for 60 years, Baker has made an impact throughout Genesee County as a primary care doctor, school physician in Le Roy and Pavilion, medical consultant to the health department and medical director at Le Roy Village Green Health Care Facility.

He has worked in the addiction field for more than 40 years and was an early proponent of Medication Assisted Treatment.

“Dr. Baker recognized early on, especially as the physician at the Genesee County Jail for a quarter of a century and at Hope Haven (inpatient clinic), that individuals who suffered from addiction needed treatment, both medically and therapeutically,” Bennett said.

Dr. Baker thanked GCASA for the gift he received, adding that he treasured his time with the agency.

“I’ve made many wonderful friends along the way,” he said, noting that his “mission was to treat those suffering from substance use disorder with respect and dignity.”

GCASA management also recognized several employees who reached longevity milestones, led by Chief Financial Officer JoAnn Ryan, who has worked at the agency for 35 years. She said that she plans to retire next year.

Others receiving longevity awards are as follows:

  • 25 years – Lori Brade, manager of Billing Operations;
  • 20 years – Linda Ackley, Residential aide; Kathy Hodgins, chief clinical officer;
  • 15 years – Carol Nicometo, Prevention educator; Jim Garber, Jail Services counselor; Charlene Grimm, assistant director of Peer Services.
  • 10 years – Diane Klos, Prevention secretary;
  • 5 years – Danielle Ludeke, Outpatient Treatment supervisor; Rosalie Mangino-Crandall, director of Project Innovation and Expansion, and Jordan Smart, Residential peer.

Rising vaping rate poses public health threat to children

Posted 15 December 2022 at 1:53 pm

Editor:

It is important for students, educators and parents to be aware of the public health threat posed by vaping.

Even with the youth smoking rate at an all-time low, the vaping rate is still on the rise and represents a serious concern for young people. According to the Food & Drug Administration and the Center for Tobacco Products — the agency that enforces the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act — e-cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco product on the market among middle and high school students, with one in nine high schoolers and one in 36 middle schoolers vaping.

Data collected locally in Orleans County shows that 29.9 percent of 11th graders have used an electronic cigarette or vape pen (like Juul) with nicotine within their lifetime, while 21.2% of 9th graders have used.

For teachers and parents, e-cigarettes can be tough to spot, with some devices as small as a USB flash drive. They also emit low levels of aerosol — “vapor” — and can be used discreetly. Most contain nicotine, with some containing as much as a pack of cigarettes.

Other facts to know:

  • Vape aerosol contains a variety of chemicals — not just nicotine.
  • The flavors themselves may contain chemicals that pose health risks.
  • Users are likely inhaling potentially toxic metal particles like chromium, nickel, lead, tin and aluminum.

Teens looking to kick vaping to the curb can find resources to help them quit by visiting smokefree.gov and teen.smokefree.gov/quit-vaping, or by calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW or texting DITCHJUUL to 88709. Locally, teens — and adults — should consult with their health care providers for help. Many work in conjunction with a tobacco treatment specialist, a professional specially trained to assist people wanting to quit nicotine.

Brittany Bozzer

Batavia

Reality Check Coordinator

Roswell Park Cancer Institute

Todd Eick, Medina ag teacher, selected for national award

Posted 6 December 2022 at 3:33 pm

Provided photo: Todd Eick (second from left), a Medina agricultural teacher, was honored by the National Association of Agricultural Educators for his exemplary performance and dedication to agricultural education.

Press Release, National Association of Agricultural Educators

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – Todd Eick, an agricultural educator at Medina, is one of six agricultural educators nationwide who received the 2022 National Association of Agricultural Educators Ideas Unlimited award.

The awards were presented during the 2022 NAAE Convention, which was Nov. 29 through Dec. 3, in Las Vegas.

The NAAE Ideas Unlimited award is presented to NAAE members to recognize them for their innovative ideas that optimize student success and development. The Ideas Unlimited Award is sponsored by National Geographic Learning | Cengage Learning.

Eick received this award for his Blackout Poem lesson plan. To celebrate Ag Literacy Week, Eick collaborated with his school district’s English department to promote ag literacy with his high school students.

Utilizing ag-based magazines, Eick’s students create a Blackout Poem, a form of poetry that uses another authors words, in their written order, to create something else.

For this past year, Eick provided articles to his that were related to growing their own food, but challenged them to select words to create a poem that focused on the theme of hunger. The unused words are then blacked out or colored out to leave just the desired text. Eick has found that this project drastically increases the reading comprehension of his students.

NAAE is the professional organization for agricultural educators with over 8,000 members nationwide. The organization advocates for agricultural education, provides advancement through professional development for agricultural educators, and works to recruit and retain agricultural educators in the profession. NAAE offers a variety of programs and services to support this three-pronged mission.

The mission of NAAE is “professionals providing agricultural education for the global community through visionary leadership, advocacy and service.” NAAE is headquartered in Lexington, Ky.

Community Action announces contest to help rename Main Street Thrift Store

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 4 December 2022 at 8:05 am

Photo by Ginny Kropf: Community Action’s Main Street Thrift Store is packed with merchandise, from clothing and jewelry to toys, furniture and more.

ALBION – Community Action’s Main Street Thrift Store is launching a new contest to rename the store. Their goal is to have a name that reflects all the store has to offer.

“Community Action has been working hard to update our programs and get the word out about the important services we provide to help people become self-sufficient and achieve financial security,” said Renee Hungerford, executive director of Community Action of Orleans and Genesee. “I moved from Buffalo to Orleans County in the early 1990s, and until I joined this agency I was not aware of all the good things we do.”

Earlier this year, Community Action asked a professional public relations person for advice on how to better make the community aware of what they offer, Hungerford said.

“When he walked into our Main Street Thrift Store, he was shocked,” she said. “He said it was not at all what he expected and it didn’t seem like a thrift store. He suggested we run a contest to change the name to something that is fresh and new and helps people to know it is not just a thrift store. No one would know better than our customers.”

The public is encouraged to help Community Action find a new name for its store. The contest runs until the end of the year and entries can be submitted either in person at the front register or on their Facebook page (Albion Main Street Thrift Store.) The winner will not only have the name they suggested on the front of the building, but will also receive a $50 gift certificate to the store.

There is also a social media contest to like and share the post regarding the contest from their Facebook page, where a winner will be randomly drawn to win a $25 gift certificate, said Cassie Eagle, manager of the Main Street Store.

The Main Street Store opened in downtown Albion about 20 years ago, and moved to 131 South Main St. in October 2014 to have more space and house more services for the community, Eagle said.

Photo by Tom Rivers: Community Action of Orleans & Genesee opened of the Main Street Thrift Store in October 2014 at the former American Legion at 131 South Main St.

“We continue to add to the services we have here at this location, so changing the name would aid in our continual progression the store,” she said.

Eagle has been working at the store for two years, having started as classroom instructor for the Credit Recovery Program, where she works with high school students on credits they need to recover to graduate. Later, she took on a second role in online sales, where she maintained an online store for eBay sales through the Main Street Store. She took on the role as store manager earlier this year when Michelle George retired. Eagle continues in her previous roles, as well.

The Main Street Store offers a variety of quality clothing and shoes for men, women and children. Many professional women outfit themselves for work at the store. The store also carries jewelry, toys, books, puzzles and games, accessories and electronics. A special holiday section is always full of decorations and items for the current holiday.

In addition to awesome bargains on all that merchandise and the Albion High School Credit Recovery classes, the public can get GED preparation; take part in a Dress for Success program, which provides clothing to look the best in a new job; receive job application assistance; get employment training with Job Development for re-employability; have interview training; and explore volunteer options for community service.

The Main Street Thrift Store, 131 South Main St., is open from 10:30 to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.

Railroad Museum reports brisk sales for Santa train rides

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 20 November 2022 at 9:29 am

Photo by Ginny Kropf: Santa and Mrs. Claus pose with one of their elves on a Santa Christmas train at the Medina Railroad Museum. This year’s Santa Train will run Dec. 17 and 18, after the Polar Express is in town Nov. 26, 27, Dec. 3, 4, 10 and 11.

MEDINA – Families who want to experience the nostalgia and magic of the famed Polar Express can ride the historic train when it returns to Medina Railroad Museum for the 11th holiday season. The Polar Express has been an annual sell-out event here since 2011, with only 2020 missed because of Covid.

Trains are scheduled for six runs a day on Nov. 26, 27, Dec. 3, 4, 10 and 11.

First-class tickets are all sold out, but some coach tickets are still available. A week ago, ticket sales had already surpassed this time last year by 4,000 tickets.

Passengers on the magical train will ride to the sounds of the hit motion picture soundtrack, reliving the classic story as the Polar Express whisks them down the tracks on a one-hour trip to meet Santa.

Once on board, the conductor will punch the passengers’ golden ticket, before hot chocolate and a Christmas cookie are served by the chefs. Passengers then read along with the classic children’s book, The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg. During the trip, characters on each car lead onboard entertainment.

After arriving at the North Pole, Santa will join passengers for the ride back to the museum. Each child will receive their first gift of the Christmas season – a sleigh bell. Families are encouraged to wear their pajamas for the ride.

Tickets to ride also give passengers admission to the Railroad Museum, which boasts one of the largest model train layouts in the country. There will also be an opportunity to take a Christmas photo in Santa’s sleigh.

Food trucks will be stationed on the Museum property and passengers will be able to sit at tables on the covered deck to eat.

After the Polar Express has left for the season, families can visit the Railroad Museum Dec. 17 and 18 and enjoy Santa’s Reindeer Story. This includes a one-hour train ride to the North Pole, during which hot chocolate and a cookie will be served and passengers can take part in a Christmas singalong.

Then passengers can read along with the children’s book, “Santa’s Reindeer Story, How the Reindeer Got Their Names.” The book tells how Santa got the names for Dasher, Dancer, Prancer and Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner and Blitzen and “the most famous reindeer of all” – Rudolph.

At the North Pole, Santa will join passengers for the ride back to the museum, while he listens to each child’s wishes and gives them all a gift.

Children and adults are encouraged to wear their favorite holiday pajamas for the relaxing ride in cars adorned with holiday decorations.

Back at the museum, there will be live reindeer for children to visit, photos in Santa’s sleigh and free rides on a miniature train around the yard.

A food vendor will be on site with a variety of food options to choose from. All items purchased may be brought onto the train. No outside food or beverages are allowed.

For more information about tickets, click here or email medinarailroad@gmail.com.

Participants sought for 10th annual Home for the Holidays 5K in Medina

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 18 November 2022 at 8:18 am

Photo by Tom Rivers: Ryan Czaja of Middleport wears a Santa suit while running a 5K in Medina on Nov. 27, 2021. He was one of 75 participants in the 9th annual Home for the Holidays 5K. Czaja has worn the Santa suit for the race several times. This year’s race will be Nov. 26.

MEDINA – The committee planning the Home for the Holidays 5K run in conjunction with the Olde Tyme Christmas celebration in Medina is making a plea for participants to sign up for this year’s race Nov. 26.

Teresa Wilkins and Debbie Tompkins have chaired the event since 2016 and want to make this one the biggest ever in celebration of its 10th anniversary.

The race signals an early start to a day full of special events, which includes holiday activities throughout the village, sales, a Cutest Little Elf Contest, a pet parade, arrival of Santa Claus, band performances, fireworks and more, topped off by the magnificent Parade of Lights at 6 p.m.

A full schedule of events can be found on the Christmas in Medina website.

Race participants can start registering at 7:30 a.m. at the YMCA, for the USA Track and Field-sanctioned race, which begins at 9 a.m. in the canal basin behind Captain Kidz. Registration forms and more information can be found on the Christmas in Medina website.

Prizes are awarded for first, second and third for men and women in a variety of age categories, starting with 10 and under and going up to 70 and older in increments of five years. For example, 11-14, 15-19, etc.

Wilkins said they are very grateful for more than a dozen Medina High School seniors who have volunteered to help this year, manning the route and directing runners. She is also thrilled to have several runners sign up this year from Canada.

Wilkins and Tompkins are both runners and in the past have run 10 to 15 races together a year.

The YMCA has not only offered use of its facility to host registration for the race, but it has invited racers who may be from out of town and want to stay for the day to come back after their run and use the facility’s showers.

The race ends at the American Legion Post on North Main Street, which opens up for racers to come in and have a donut, donated by Dunkin’ Donuts, and/or an apple, donated by local farmer Dale Root.

All the proceeds from the race go to a local charity, and in the past they have donated to the Knights-Kaderli Fund, Hands 4 Hope, the Warrior House and the library. This year’s proceeds will be given to a new local charity, Cat by Cat Inc., led by Shannon Blount in Medina. The group in Medina works to humanely “TNVR” cats through targeted trapping. Those cats are then neutered, vaccinated and either returned or adopted out.