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Towpath and historic villages prove a big attraction for cyclists

Posted 14 July 2022 at 10:15 am

Brockport embraces designation as ‘Trail Town’

Photo by Tom Rivers: A big group of cyclists stop by Tinsel and the Lockstone in Albion on Monday morning, where they were offered orange slices. About 750 cyclists passed through the community on the Cycling the Erie Canal journey, which covers about 400 miles over 8 days.

By Jules Hoepting, Guest Contributor

BROCKPORT – If you passed by the Erie Canal in Orleans County Sunday evening or Monday morning, you probably noticed an abundance of cyclists gliding through.

From July 10 to 18, 750 cyclists are pedaling from Buffalo to Albany along the historic 360 mile Erie Canalway Trail. Organized by statewide nonprofit Parks & Trails New York (PTNY), the 24th annual Cycle the Erie Canal is bringing cycling enthusiasts, volunteers and history buffs from 40 states to local canal towns. The median age of riders is 63 with the eldest aged 83 and the youngest aged 10.

Photos by Erica Schneider: Volunteers offer the cyclists refreshments and souvenirs during a stop in Brockport on Monday.

When asked about their experiences at a rest stop in Brockport, tour participants had plenty of compliments about the community — both in the towns passed through and within the tour itself.

Couple Stan and Laurie Frey from Wisconsin are embarking on their second Cycle the Erie Canal tour and are bringing along Laurie’s sister, Linda for her first tour. The group talked fondly of going into canal communities, stopping for food and enjoying the atmosphere.

“All these little towns [are] welcoming, doing all the music and [sending free canal-themed] postcards, free fruit — it’s just really delightful,” Laurie Frey said.

Her sister, Linda agreed, saying the local towns “seem like warm, tight communities” adding “When I think of stopping at little towns, it’s this right here.”

Linda also praised the ability to “see the depth of the history” of the canal through trail signage and lectures for tour participants. Stan Frey found the Canal Culvert in Ridgeway — the only place you can drive under the Erie Canal — to be highly interesting as well.

Volunteer Mark Proia from Pavilion, NY, uses the tour as a way to give back to a cycling community that helps support his 7,000-plus miles in annual cycling. Proia’s been a regular Cycle the Erie Canal volunteer and tour rider since 2007, and his favorite is befriending people from all over the U.S. Tour participants cover between 40–60 miles a day, which is “a huge milestone” for some of them, and Proia enjoys watching the joy that comes from personal achievement.

Proia also enjoys the canal towns and the variety of ways they welcome cyclists coming through. He said he often comes to Brockport and utilizes the charging station at the Brockport Welcome Center for his hybrid car, then goes for a bike ride.

According to Susan Smith, the Director of the Brockport Welcome Center, the center additionally offers a kayak launch, a bike fix-it station, showers, laundry facilities and camping options. The center is a prime example of PTNY’s Erie Canalway mission: connecting the Erie Canalway Trail to Erie Canal towns.

In early 2022, the “Victorian Village on the Erie Canal” was selected by PTNY and the New York State Canal Corporation (NYSCC) as the pilot community for the new Empire State Trail Town program, based on its long-standing connection to the canal and commitment to the trail.

Cyclists in Brockport were greeted by musicians on Monday as part of the Cycling the Erie Canal trek.

The Erie Canalway Trail is a portion of the Empire State Trail. Over the last six months, PTNY has been working with village officials and a dedicated group of volunteers to help Brockport attract and profit from the growing bicycle tourism market, improve the trail and infrastructure for those that walk and bike in the village and establish a strong identity tied to the trail.

According to Margay Blackman, Brockport mayor, the village “proudly” defines itself as an Erie Canal community and is “passionate” about being selected as the first Empire State Trail Town.

“When I first moved here in 1977, the [trail] path wasn’t well groomed… there was talk of filling in [the canal] for years and years,” Blackman said. “Parks & Trails has helped a tremendous amount with bringing in recreation and tourism to the canal.”

Another initiative PTNY and NYSCC has taken to tie communities to the canal is the Bike-Friendly Business Certification program, which recognizes and promotes businesses that provide special accommodations for cyclists.

In Orleans County, Bike-Friendly certified locations include Lee-Whedon Memorial Library, Bunkhaus Hostel, Orleans County YMCA and Hart House Hotel in Medina, The Downtown Browsery Inc., Hoag Library, The Coffee Joint and Tinsel ice cream in Albion.

For more information on Cycle the Erie Canal and PTNY’s programs, visit ptny.org/cycle-the-erie-canal. To stay up to date with the tour, follow Parks & Trails New York on Facebook (@parksandtrailsny and @eriecanalwaytrail), Instagram (@parkstrailsny and @eriecanalwaytrail) or Twitter (@PTNY and @cycletheeire).

The tour is in partnership with the Canal Corporation, a subsidiary of the New York Power Authority. The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor is the premier heritage sponsor of the event. Nine regional tourism agencies, including Orleans County Tourism, also sponsor the ride.

Editor’s Note: Jules Hoepting of Albion is an intern with Parks & Trails New York.

Photo by Jules Hoepting: The pins are from riders marking where they are from.

Investigators unable to determine cause of Albion fire due to extensive damage

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 13 July 2022 at 8:21 am

Photo by Tom Rivers: Firefighters arrive on scene at a fire on the morning on July 8 at 215 East State St. The fire would spread to the house next door at 217 East State St.

ALBION – Fire investigators are unable to pinpoint the cause of a fire at 215 East State St. due to extensive damage to the house “and a variety of potential ignition sources that were unable to be ruled out,” said David Cleary, a fire investigator for Orleans County.

The cause has been ruled undetermined. The fire spread to 217 East State St. The two houses are connected.

The fire displaced 14 residents – 7 adults and 7 children.

The fast-moving fire quickly destroyed much of 215 East State St.

A GoFundMe fundraiser has been set up for residents at 215 East State St. and another GoFundMe fundraiser has been set up to assist residents at 217 East State St. with clothing, bedding and other needs.

“I’m having hope that this fundraiser helps raise any amount of funds to help place the family back into a safe home or apartment,” Sarah Drier wrote about the fundraiser for her father-in-law and other residents at 215 East State St. “I’m hoping to raise funds so they can get their everyday essentials that we take for granted. Any amount donated will help.”

Vendors sought for flea market on Aug. 13 at Cobblestone Museum

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 12 July 2022 at 10:16 am

CHILDS – A fundraiser that was once one of the highlights of the summer season at the Cobblestone Museum is being brought back by volunteer coordinator Sue Bonafini.

“Sooner or later, everything old is new again,” is a quote by Stephen King, which Bonafini shares in her explanation for planning a flea market Aug. 13 on the grounds of the Cobblestone Museum.

“So why not attempt a fundraiser that was enjoyed by so many in the Cobblestone Society’s past,” Bonafini asked.

The flea market will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring a white elephant booth with contributions from the membership or community at-large, a large assortment of gently used books for sale and hot dogs and refreshments for sale.

In addition, Bonafini is hoping for a large turnout of vendors with a variety of goods for purchase, such as treasures which homeowners may no longer need, but someone else might.

Bonafini got the idea for a vendor fair while reviewing the Museum’s archival records of past events during the 1980s and 1990s.

“It was noted that during the month of August, the museum held the Cobblestone Fair and Flea Market events as summer fundraisers,” she said. “So I spoke with director Doug Farley and gained his support to plan a similar event for this summer on Aug. 13.”

In addition to the large book booth and white elephant booth, the Cobblestone Museum is adding a Holiday Shoppe featuring Christmas decorations. All items will be affordably priced to encourage sales, Bonafini said.

“In order to offer a wider selection of items to our visitors, we’re hopeful members of the community will rent booth space on our grounds and sell additional products,” Bonafini said.

She is hoping to attract vendors who can sell a variety of crafts or antiques, as well as individuals or organizations who wish to showcase and sell goods. Cost to rent a 10 x 10-foot square space is only $20. A folding chair or two will be provided with each space, while supply lasts, but no table.

It is anticipated a large team of volunteers will be needed to keep the event running smoothly, and anyone interested in helping may contact Bonafini at volunteers@cobblestomemuseum.org. Booth reservations may be made by calling (585) 589-9013.

Those who would like to contribute items to the white elephant booth should also contact the museum to arrange a drop-off time.

“There’s still plenty of time for people to survey closets, attics, garages and basements to find possible contributions,” Bonafini said.

Museum plans art tour on July 15 to highlight paintings, prints and sculptures

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 7 July 2022 at 8:13 am

Provided photos: This is a composite photo of a few of the forms of art on display at the Cobblestone Museum complex. A tour of the arts is scheduled at 6 p.m. July 15.

CHILDS – The Cobblestone Society Museum has planned a unique art tour July 15 to highlight some of the many paintings, prints and sculptures on display at the museum.

Former art teacher and Cobblestone Museum director and curator Bill Lattin will lead an educational tour with a dozen stops to examine a variety of art from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Museum director Doug Farley said participants should be prepared to spend a relaxing summer evening being pleased and amazed during the “artful” tour.

“Wear your comfortable shoes so you are ready to walk around our various buildings to see the many paintings, prints and sculptures,” Farley advised.

The tour will take place rain or shine. A free-will donation will be accepted. Those planning to attend are asked to reserve their spot on the tour by calling the museum at (585) 589-9013.

Some bands from Orleans County will perform at Batavia’s Ramble festival

Posted 1 July 2022 at 4:16 pm

Photos by Tom Rivers: The band Vette performs “Nothin’ But A Good Time” by Poison last Aug. 28 at the amphitheater at Bullard Park in Albion. Vette includes, front, from left: Travis Mackie, Kole Moore and Alex Fitzak. Shelby Starr is the drummer. They will perform at Ramble in Batavia on Saturday.

Press Release, Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council

BATAVIA – For the past two years, the Ramble has been put on hold due to the pandemic. However, it is coming back this year, bigger and better than ever.

The Ramble Team has partnered with the Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council (GO ART!) to bring a fun-fill event that has something for everyone, including 25 bands performing on two stages, an Explore Art tent for kids, street performances and much more! The event will take place in Jackson Square and on Jackson Street on July 2nd from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

“We are so excited that the Ramble will be happening again this year!” said Paul Draper III, who has been coordinating the event for the past 6 years. “We wanted to make it the best one yet, so we partnered with our friends at GO ART! to help us not only grow the entire event but also bring more of a presence to the ‘arts’ side of the festival. It really is shaping up to be an incredible event. And I think everyone is going to love it!”

The Ramble is an annual reunion of musicians, who have a connection to Batavia and the surrounding areas, which features a variety of musical genres. This year’s the Ramble will consist of two stages; The Main Stage sponsored by Eli Fish in Jackson Square, and the Jackson Street Stage sponsored by Center Street Smoke House. The lineup is as follows:

This year the Ramble will feature an Explore Art tent for kids and families including art projects, face painting, temporary tattoos, caricatures, sidewalk chalk drawings, and more, which will run until 5:30 p.m.

Springville Center for the Arts presents Artsapalooza will host interactive theater workshops at 10:30 a.m. and again at 1:30 p.m. Kids will take part in interactive art-making stations and theater games, culminating in a giant-puppet performance of Lay Me Down to Sleep.

At 4 p.m. kids will have the opportunity to drum along with Womba African Drumming and Dance while learning about traditional Ghanaian drumming, song and dance.

Dylan DeSmit of the band DriVen sings “Hard to Handle” by the Black Crowes during a benefit for COVA on June 12, 2021. DriVen is one of the bands from Orleans County performing at Ramble. The Zackstreet Boys, Marnie K and the Nonblondes, and Vette also will be featured from Orleans County.

Basket raffle will raise funds for OCALS to promote literacy

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 30 June 2022 at 6:57 am

Photo by Ginny Kropf: Carolyn Wagner, a board member of Orleans County Adult Learning Services, stands near the window of Case-Nic Cookies, where she has set up a basket raffle to benefit the literary organization.

MEDINA – A basket raffle to benefit Orleans County Adult Learning Services will be the first major fundraiser the organization has attempted during more than a decade of service.

OCALS, which receives funding from United Way of Orleans County, is hoping to raise much-needed revenue and create more awareness in the community by holding the basket raffle at Case-Nic Cookies.

“A lot of people still don’t know who we are,” said Carolyn Wagner, a board member of OCALS.

Wagner organized the raffle and is very grateful for the support she has received – from local businesses and individuals.

A total of 44 baskets are on display in Case-Nic’s window and tickets for the raffle can be purchased in the store. There are baskets suitable for children, gardeners and adults with many other interests, as well as a variety of gift certificates.

Like other raffles Case-Nic has participated in, customers buy as many chances as they wish, then indicate the baskets they want to win on a form.

The raffle starts Friday and ends with the winners drawn on July 29. Wagner will call winners on July 30, she said.

OCALS, which was founded to promote literacy in Orleans County, works with the schools, families, young people and adults to improve reading skills. All tutors are volunteers, and more are always needed.

“I know the stigma people endure who can’t read,” Wagner said. “Our services are free and confidential for all ages.”

Wagner said she joined OCALS board because she is passionate about reading.

Recently, OCALS participated in Medina’s Community Yard Sale by having its first ever book sale. Wagner said they sold 1,000 books.

OCALS is accredited by Pro-Literacy, a nationally based literary organization.

Before the pandemic, they were serving 100 individuals a year and providing more than 1,200 units of service.

Anyone wishing to inquire about services can log onto their Facebook page or www.ocals.org.

Albion man sets state record for biggest smallmouth bass

Posted 29 June 2022 at 11:41 am

Press Release, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation

Photo courtesy of DEC: Thomas Russell Jr. of Albion caught this record-setting fish on June 15 at Cayuga Lake in Seneca County.

ALBION – New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today announced a new state record for smallmouth bass was set on June 15, opening day for bass harvest season.

Thomas Russell Jr. of Albion reeled in an eight-pound, six-ounce smallmouth bass from Cayuga Lake, Seneca County. Russell’s bass surpassed the previous record by two ounces, a tie between fish caught on Lake Erie in 1995, and in the St. Lawrence River in 2016.

“Smallmouth bass are one of New York’s most popular freshwater sportfish and it’s exciting to share the great news of Mr. Russell’s record-breaking catch,” Commissioner Basil Seggos said. “New York’s Finger Lakes are truly an angler’s paradise, providing exceptional fishing opportunities for a variety of sportfish.”

Pound for pound, smallmouth bass are considered one of the hardest-fighting freshwater fish in New York. When hooked, they will often leap acrobatically out of the water, making them a highly desirable sportfish for anglers to target. They can be found across the state in cooler lakes, rivers and creeks in rocky/gravelly areas.

Mr. Russell submitted details of his winning catch as part of DEC’s Angler Achievement Awards Program, which keeps track of state record fish. Through this program, anglers can enter freshwater fish that meet specific qualifying criteria and receive official recognition of their catch and an embroidered patch commemorating their achievement.

This is the second state record set this year. On May 8, the state record for channel catfish was broken when Bailey Williams of Watertown reeled in a 35-pound, 12-ounce channel catfish from the Black River in Jefferson County.

More entrepreneurs complete MAP class with plans for business success in Orleans

Photos by Ginny Kropf: Spring graduates of the Microenterprise Assistance Program celebrated with dinner June 14 at Gallo’s Bar and Grill in Hamlin. Michelle Gallo is a former graduate of MAP and has returned several times to share how the class helped her and her husband Rick in their new endeavors. Seated, from left, are Chacora Abrams, Jessica Skehan, Dorothy Daniels (instructor), Amanda Vasquez and MAP coordinator Diane Blanchard. Second row, are Amber Moss (with Cassandra Brady, who took the class), Rebecca Alexander, Debbie Prest, Michelle Gallo (instructor), Tiffany Allen, John Fitzak (county legislator) and Sam Campanella (adviser). Third row, Erin Hills and Chris Glogowski. Absent are Delores Hansel, Andrew LaFave and Kristen Ostrander.

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 28 June 2022 at 7:55 am

HAMLIN – The spring class of the Microenterprise Assistance Program brought the number to 557 entrepreneurs who have completed the 10-week class that offers many pointers for building a successful business.

MAP is a program of Orleans Economic Development Agency. Diane Blanchard is administrator of MAP.

The graduates bring a variety of unique interests and the potential to create a thriving business in their community.

Graduates shared their goals and proposed businesses at Gallo’s Bar and Grill in Hamlin on June 14. Gallo’s is owned by Michelle and Rick Gallo, who offered to host the evening. Michelle is a graduate of the Microenterprise class and has become an instructor in the program.

Graduates and their proposed business are Delores Hansel of Albion, who owns Brush Strokes Studio in the Arnold Gregory Complex; Tiffany Allen, who wants to own a restaurant and bar; Rebecca Alexander of Albion, who is adding tailgate games and a restaurant to their existing business – Dubby’s Wood Fired Pizza; Cassandra Brady, bakery; Chris Glogowski, the Coffee Joint; Erin Hills, a make-up artist; Deborah Prest, home décor; Amanda Vasquez, bakery; Jessica Skehan, an artist; Andrew LaFave, plastic recycling; and Kristen Ostrander, Bloom’s Flower Shop.

Each of the graduates shared their business plan and reasons for taking the Microenterprise Assistance Program.

Tiffany Allen shared her plans for a restaurant/bar.

Hansel purchased Brush Strokes from Tim Elliott of Medina. She enjoys ceramics and hopes to grow the business. She would like to do a summer camp for children and fused glass and eventually, pottery. She said wanted to gain a little more business acumen from the class.

“My goal is to become a full service art business for Orleans County,” she said.

Alexander and her husband already own Dubby’s Wood Fired Pizza and wanted learn more about the business end of running a bar and tailgate games.

“We will be a one-stop shop for food and fun,” Alexander said.

They are ready to open a restaurant in Albion and will be open Wednesday through Sunday and offer a full menu. All baked goods can be customized and made to order. They will cater to food allergies. She also wants to have cake decorating classes for adults and children. She took the class to get help with a business plan for their new venture.

Cassandra Brady took the class to help her and her friends Chacora Abrams and Amber Moss, who are running a bakery in their home, but would like a real store in Orleans County. Their specialty is custom cakes and desserts. When they started, Abrams said they knew they needed help on how to run a business.

Amanda Vasquez also wants to open a bakery and needs a certified kitchen. She hopes to work with customers in local towns. She would like to have a store front in Medina by 2024.

Tiffany Allen has been living in Hawaii for 18 years, but recently came home and is looking for a business that fits her lifestyle, she said. Her business will be called Mommy’s Kitchen and Daddy’s Bar and will feature home cooking, a rotating menu and a local delivery option.

Deborah Prest sells home décor and crafts.

Allen is confident she can run such a business with one person in the kitchen and one in the bar. Her goal is to provide an enlightening and unique dining experience. Her staff will be encouraged to learn something from every customer, she said.

Chris Glogowski opened The Coffee Joint at 59 North Main St. in Albion, with a partner, David Mogle. They will offer a variety of high-quality coffee and tea drinks. Manager of the business is Heidi Peterson. Glogowski is an Albion police officer and Mogle is the police chief.

Glogowski wanted to keep a coffee shop in downtown. In the future they plan to add smoothies, breakfast wraps, waffles and energy drinks. They also intend to have delivery and a drive-up service. Their hours will be expanded for the summer, he said.

Debbie Prest has been doing crafts and home décor for 20 years, but needed to know more about the business end, she said.

“I’m good at crafting, but not so good at the business stuff,” she said. “I knew creating a business plan was crucial to my goal.”

She has been doing a lot of sales on Facebook and at craft shows, but now will have her own brick and mortar store in back of Five Star Bank in Albion.

Erin Hills is a make-up artist who hopes to open a salon.

Jessica Skehan of Holley studied art and printing in college, but didn’t learn the business end, she said. She hopes to establish a business doing custom painting and selling prints of her original artwork online. She would like to have a store front within the next five years.

Erin Hills thought as a make-up artist she would have to live in a big city to be successful. She has discovered, however, she is in high demand in Orleans County for weddings, and has 69 booked. She also does lash extensions. She is confident she can make a six-figure income doing hair and make-up. Her goal is to have a salon by 2023 and a mobile unit after that.

Two other graduates were not able to attend the graduation. They are Kristen Ostrander, who owns Bloom’s Flower Shop in Albion, and Andrew LaFave, who plans a plastic recycling business.

Beth Miller, a former MAP graduate, returned to share her success with the class. She had lost her job with Covid hit about two years ago and took the class to prepare for opening her own business. Dorothy Daniels encouraged her to open her store Wild Flour Deli & Bakery in Albion last fall.

A $21,000 grant through MAP enabled her to build a dining room at 438 West Ave. She has since expanded and added equipment.

“In one month I made as much money as I had anticipated making in five months,” Miller said.

She said the MAP class was overwhelming at first, but turned out to be very beneficial. She was recently voted one of the top five deli-bakeries in Western New York.

Anyone interested in taking the next MAP course can contact Blanchard at dblanchard@orleansdevelopment.org or by calling (585) 589-7060.

NY will boost pay for life guards at state parks to address shortage

Posted 22 June 2022 at 2:12 pm

Press Release, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Office

Governor Kathy Hochul today directed a pay increase for state lifeguards to help address a staffing shortage at New York State Park beaches and pools and Department of Environmental Conservation campgrounds and day use areas beaches.

Starting pay rates for lifeguards at upstate facilities will increase 34 percent, from $14.95 per hour to $20 per hour, and 21 percent for lifeguards at downstate facilities, from $18.15 per hour to $22 per hour.

“All New Yorkers deserve the opportunity to safely enjoy our public beaches and pools this summer,” Governor Hochul said. “With a lifeguard shortage threatening access to swimming facilities, we are aggressively recruiting more lifeguards to ensure safe access to outdoor recreation during the summer months.”

The new pay rates will go into effect immediately for lifeguards at swimming facilities operated by the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the Department of Environmental Conservation.

State Parks provides lifeguards at swimming pools and beaches at 70 parks across the state. DEC operates 17 beaches with more than 40 lifeguards. This will also include lifeguards employed by SUNY and CUNY. State agencies will continue to advance discussions with United University Professions toward a beneficial outcome for all parties.

Pay rates will also increase for lifeguards with more than two seasons of experience, ranging from five percent to 30 percent, depending on location and experience.

State Parks is holding on-demand Lifeguard Certification Courses and also launched a lifeguard Digital Recruitment Campaign that has already gained approximately 1.2 million impressions to date across a variety of platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Indeed, YouTube, and Vistar, and will run until at least July 4, 2022.

Last year, New York lowered the lifeguard age restriction to 15 across most of the state and is now proactively adjusting lifeguards from park to park to address shortages until full staffing capacity is achieved.

Lee-Whedon in Medina kicks off summer reading program on July 1

Posted 20 June 2022 at 9:53 am

Press Release, Lee-Whedon Memorial Library

MEDINA – The Lee-Whedon Memorial Library is kicking off the summer reading season with a splash.

Join us for our kick-off celebration on Friday, July 1, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for yard games, giant bubbles, and an inflatable water slide! Twisted Treats Ice Cream will be selling ice cream. Also make sure to play our ocean-themed sidewalk games, located in front of the library.

This year’s theme is Oceans of Possibility. Weekly children’s programs begin July 5th and run through Aug. 12.

Story times will run on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Wednesdays will feature STEM programs from Challenge Island. Fridays will feature a variety of fantastic performers and outdoor movies at night. Teen programs run for 5 weeks on Tuesdays starting July 5th. Registration is open for all programs.

Check out our website and social media for more information. Or stop in and pick up our summer reading flyer.

DEC urges residents to take ‘I Bird NY’ challenge and identify 10 common birds

Posted 18 June 2022 at 9:27 am

Press Release, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos announced the start of the 2022 “I BIRD NY” challenges for beginning and experienced birders.

Two levels of challenges provide the opportunity to identify birds and learn about birdlife and offer a chance to win birding equipment. With the launch of many New York State Birding Trail segments this year, DEC will be increasing the chances of winning if participants find birds on a New York State Birding trail site.

“No matter where you live, birdwatching is a fun, easy, affordable activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, abilities, identities, and backgrounds,” said Commissioner Seggos. “This summer is a great time to start birding or take your birding skills to the next level by observing birds in the diverse variety of habitats and locations the New York State Birding Trail offers.”

New York State’s wide-ranging habitat types, from the Atlantic Ocean’s sandy beaches to majestic Catskill and Adirondack peaks, Great Lakes shorelines, and everything in between create a birder’s paradise that supports more than 450 different bird species throughout the year. New York offers a wide variety of options in Birding Trail locations with ongoing new sites being added, making it even easier for New Yorkers to get started with this fun activity.

The annual I BIRD NY Beginner’s Birding Challenge is open to anyone 16 years of age and younger. To complete the Beginner’s Birding Challenge, participants must identify 10 common New York bird species and submit their challenge sheet to DEC.

In addition to the Beginner’s Birding Challenge, DEC is offering the I Bird NY experienced birder challenge. To complete birders of any age must identify at least 10 different bird species found across New York State.

Entries can be submitted online or be mailed or emailed and must be received by October 14. Both entry forms are also available in Spanish. All participants in both challenges will be able to print a certificate of participation and be entered into a random drawing for a chance to win birding accessories, including binoculars and a grand prize spotting scope. All participants will also receive an extra entry for identifying half of the birds on NYS Birding Trail sites. As a bonus, the first 50 participants from either challenge will receive a special goodie bag of birding swag items.

The I BIRD NY program was launched in 2017 to build on the State’s efforts to increase access to New York’s vast natural resources and promote no- and low-cost opportunities to explore the great outdoors and connect with nature.

Independent Living holds open house June 22 at new office in Albion

Staff Reports Posted 14 June 2022 at 7:20 am

ALBION – Independent Living of the Genesee Region will hold an open house from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 22 at the ILGR’s new location at the Arnold Gregory Office Complex, 243 South Main St.

Residents of Orleans County who have a disability are encouraged to stop by the office to be aware of the programs and services provided by Independent Living of the Genesee Region. Agency staff will be at the open house.

Anyone needing service may stop by during open hours – Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Arnold Gregory complex also houses PathStone and a variety of other non-profit agencies, personal health and service practices. The site offers easy parking and a coffee and snack shop.

As the date approaches, ILGR will share additional open house details on the ILGR Facebook page. For more information please call (585) 815-8501, extension 400.

ILGR offers a wide range of services to help people with disabilities remain in control of their own lives and live more independently. Among them are long-term supports and services for seniors and individuals with disabilities through NY Connects, application assistance for Medicaid, Social Security, and Department of Social Services programs, employment and housing search and assistance; an expanded loan closet with free durable medical equipment; and Taking Control, which provides consumer directed personal assistance services (home care aides).

World Canals Conference will be in NY in 2025 on 200th anniversary of Erie Canal

Posted 6 June 2022 at 8:03 am

Press Release, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Office

Kimberly Stawicki took this photo of the sunset last week on the south side of the canal in Medina near Fruit Avenue.

BUFFALO – Governor Kathy Hochul announced that New York State has been selected by Inland Waterways International as the host of the 2025 World Canals Conference, an event that brings together hundreds of canal and inland waterway enthusiasts, professionals and scholars from around the world to learn about a variety of topics related to canals.

The 2025 conference will be held in Buffalo as the State commemorates the 200th anniversary of the Erie Canal’s opening there in 1825. The New York Power Authority, New York State Canal Corporation, and the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor, in partnership with the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation and Visit Buffalo Niagara, are the joint sponsors and will be coordinating all aspects of the conference.

“I am honored that New York State, and particularly the City of Buffalo, will host the 2025 World Canals Conference, providing us with the opportunity to host attendees from around the globe while highlighting a critical part of our state and nation’s history during the 200th anniversary of the Erie Canal’s opening,” Governor Hochul said. “The Erie Canal has been an integral part of New York’s economy and landscape since Governor Dewitt Clinton began the 10-day inaugural voyage in Buffalo in 1825 on the newly completed canal, culminating in the famous ‘Wedding of the Waters’ ceremony in New York Harbor.”

The World Canals Conference is a key component of a comprehensive, four-month celebration of the Erie Canal’s bicentennial planned at the historic Buffalo waterfront between May and September of 2025. The event will highlight Buffalo’s transformed waterfront Canalside district, which has recently seen more than $400 million in new investment including new hotels, a major sports arena, a children’s museum, retail shops and a fabulous, re-created waterway on the footprint of the original Erie Canal in the Queen City. Today, Buffalo’s Canalside attracts more than 1,000,000 persons annually.

The conference program will be vibrant, relevant and undeniably future focused as canals and inland waterways are inexorably linked with the social, cultural and economic fiber of their surrounding communities.

Accordingly, the event will be structured to embrace discussion of the innovations, opportunities and challenges which are driving healthy and sustainable waterways of the world today. Sessions on waterways and communities, tourism and recreation, waterway management, historic preservation, and inclusion and accessibility will comprise a diverse and compelling conference agenda. International attendees will mark the indelible impact the Erie Canal has brought to North America and beyond and will be able to chart the course for a vibrant and promising future to be shared by inland waterways across the globe.

New York Power Authority Interim President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll said, Our New York Power Authority and Canal Corporation family is incredibly proud to join Governor Hochul and our partners as we celebrate the bicentennial of New York State’s iconic Erie Canal on a world stage. This international event will not only showcase our still working Canal system but will also promote its continued positive impact on local economies and highlight the endless opportunities for adventure along our network of water and trailways.”

The upcoming conference in Buffalo will mark the fourth time in recent years that New York State has hosted this international event. It was previously held in Rochester in 2000 and 2010, and again in Syracuse in 2017 which marked the 200 years since the start of construction of the Erie Canal in 1817. Specific details regarding the 2025 World Canals Conference will be announced as conference planning gets underway.

Canal Corporation Director Brian U. Stratton said, “For nearly two centuries, the Erie Canal has connected people and commerce across our state, and as the stewards of this iconic waterway, I am thrilled to celebrate its bicentennial alongside Governor Hochul and our colleagues as we bring the international focus of the World Canals Conference back to New York State. This global gathering of inland waterway leaders and canal enthusiasts allows us to truly showcase how our continued investments in the Canal system support recreation and local businesses in canalside communities across upstate New York.”

Farmers’ market in Medina opens for season on June 4

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 26 May 2022 at 11:25 am

Photos courtesy of Chris Busch: Shoppers check out the wares at Black Button Distillery of Rochester’s booth at the Canal Village Farmers’ Market last year. The summer market begins June 4 at the corner of West Center Street and West Avenue.

MEDINA – Opening day of the Canal Village Farmers’ Market is a sure sign of summer, and shoppers can look forward to the opening on June 4.

“Our winter market had a very good season, but we’re always fired up for opening day of the summer season,” said Chris Busch, president of Orleans Renaissance Group, which sponsors the market. “The Saturday morning gathering of vendors, musicians and friends under sunshine and blue skies is a welcome sign of summer. After a long winter and more Covid, people are ready to enjoy summer life. We’re excited to be able to provide this great weekly summer event for the community.”

Gail Miller is manager of the market.

“I am looking forward to a great summer season the Canal Village Farmers’ Market,” Miller said. “As always, there’s a lot packed into the Saturday market, including regular and rotating vendors, food trucks, live music, kids’ scavenger hunts and more. Weekly updates can be found on the market’s Facebook page.”

Returning anchor vendors include Baker Farms, Roberts Farm Market, Human Farms, Papa Thom’s Rockin’ Bagels, LynOaken Farms, Gardner’s Gardens, Catherine Street Bakery, Heartland Organics, HateCuddler Craftworks and Flower Fields Forever.

Products to be found at the market include local beef, pork, chicken, garlic, garlic powder, eggs, mushrooms, cheese, numerous fruits and vegetables, cut flowers, bagels, herbs, barbecue sauce, herb blends, tea blends, fudge, jam, jellies, sea salts, cookies, pies, cakes, breads, scones, muffins, honey and many other items.

New regular vendors this year include Shirt Factory, Lock Ridge Apiary and Barn Owl Blacksmithing.

Wineries, mead and spirits will return, along with local beer. Scheduled throughout the season will be 819 Meadworks, Leonard Oakes Estate Winery, Mountain Mule Ciderhouse and Schulze Winery and Vineyard. Black Button Distillery will also be back every month, along with a new vendor from Batavia, Eli Fish Brewery.

“We are super excited to welcome Eli Fish Brewing to our family of vendors,” Miller said. “It’s great to be able to add a local beer vendor to the market.

Tom Keefer of Celtic Cross will perform from 10 a.m. to noon on opening day of the Canal Village Farmers’ Market.

The market also has a great lineup of food trucks, with a nice variety for all tastes, Miller said.

“If there are other food trucks interested, we still have some Saturdays open,” she said.

Food trucks rotate throughout the season. In addition to the weekly anchor food truck, El Gran Burrito, other food trucks scheduled are Dubby’s Wood Fired Pizza from Albion, Some Like it Hot from Buffalo and Greenlief’s on the Go from Middleport. Dubby’s will be on site for opening day.

Artisans and crafters include Between the Vines, Stillwater Pottery, HateCuddler’s Crafts/HHC and Laurel’s by the Creek.

“We’ve been contacted by quite a few artisans and crafters, and some spots are still available,” Miller said.

The weekly kid’s scavenger hunt will be sponsored by Maureen Hungerford this year, Miller said.

“Each week, kids can play by answering five market-related questions to win a prize from a box full of cool kid stuff,” Miller said.

Miller said the scavenger hunt is a very popular attraction, and they are grateful to Hungerford for her sponsorship.

“We have many kids play each week and they really love a choice from the prize box,” Miller said.

Live music at the market will be sponsored this year by Berkshire Hathaway Home Services-Zambito Realtors.

“We’re incredibly grateful for live music sponsorship,” Busch said. “It really makes the market vibe something special, and thanks to Berkshire Hathaway Home Services-Zambito Realtors, we have a full slate of musicians.”

Entertains scheduled so far are recording artist Barry DiGregorio, Rob Robinson, Thom Jennings, Thomas Keefer solo, Steve Novak, Zach Busch and Dark Road Duo.

The community tent is also back, according to Miller.

“The tent is for community organizations, such as tourism, veterans’ organizations, health and wellness organizations, Master Gardeners, charitable organizations and the like,” Miller said. “This gives these organizations a helpful outlet to share information about their services.”

Opening day will see the New York State Division of Veterans’ Services at the Community Tent. They will be answering questions and handing out Fresh Connect Check Coupon books to veterans.

“Any community-oriented organization who feels they might be appropriate for the market should contact us,” Miller said.

Miller encourages customers to check the Canal Village Farmers Market Facebook page for products available each Saturday.

The market has multiple options for making sales transactions. These include, besides cash, credit via Square, PayPal and VenMo.

The market accepts Senior Coupons, WIC, SNAP and Fresh Connect Checks and will soon be able to offer Double up Food Bucks to SNAP recipients. More information is available at the market manager’s tent.

The market is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday. Miller can be reached at canalvillagemarket@gmail.com.

Cruise-ins return to Medina Canal Basin for 25th season

Photo by Ginny Kropf: Dave Green, organizer of Medina’s Friday night cruise-ins in the canal basin, stands next to his 1978 Buick Regal Landau. Cruise-ins will begin June 3 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 26 May 2022 at 7:04 am

MEDINA – Those who own a vintage vehicle and those who enjoy looking at them will be happy to hear Friday night cruise-ins in the canal basin will return for the summer on June 3.

This will be the 25th year for the weekly summer event, said Dave Green of East Shelby, who has been involved since the very first one.

The cruise-ins were originally headed by Donna Mruczek and Donna Bushover, in addition to Green. The first ones took place at what was then Botsford and Hartway Motors, Green said. Then they moved to the canal basin, where they continued to grow every year.

Eventually, the end of each summer event was celebrated with a Super Cruise on Main Street with Elvis impersonator Terry Buchwald. The evening closes Main Street from the four corners almost to Prospect Street and attracts as many as 300 antique vehicles.

Cruise-ins were canceled the last two years due to Covid, so Green is optimistic car collectors and the public will be eager to have them return.

Cars will begin arriving about 5 p.m. and average between 90 and 100 weekly.

“Cars come from a very long distance, including Wyoming County and Niagara Falls,” Green said.

Disc jockey Hank Nevins will provide music weekly. Super Cruise this year will feature the band Crash Cadillac from the Buffalo area.

Special features of cruise nights include a 50-50 drawing, with half going to United Way of Orleans County, which sponsors the event; Christmas in July when people are asked to bring new toys to be given to children at Christmas time; and the local Boy Scouts selling hot dogs and hamburgers.

Every week something different is featured, such as Truck Night, General Motors Night, Ford Night, Mustang Night and Corvette Night.

Green is not only the head of cruise nights, he is a collector himself. He has owned a variety of antique vehicles, which he trades whenever he sees something he likes.

“The thrill in collecting is changing them every so often,” he said.

His most recent trade was a 1980 Chevy pickup, which he traded for a 1973 Mercury Cougar convertible. The 1978 Buick Regal Landau he currently drives was traded for an El Camino from the 1980s.

Green added the cruise-ins wouldn’t be so successful without the support of downtown businesses, Medina Fire Department and DPW, who provide any services needed.