By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 17 February 2025 at 12:50 pm
The price for an average gallon of regular unleaded gas didn’t change much in the past week, remaining at $3.18 state-wide and $3.25 in Orleans County, according to AAA.
Nationally, the price is up slightly by 2 cents to $3.16 a gallon.
“As spring approaches, refineries are beginning their transition to summer blend fuel, which often results in higher prices this time of year,” AAA said in a news release. “This week, gas prices rose by a few cents, bringing the national average to $3.16 per gallon. Routine seasonal maintenance and an offline refinery in Northern California are putting additional strain on supply. These factors are pushing gas prices up, which means consumers may see higher prices at the pump as warmer months approach, though other regions will likely see these changes before New York does.”
Here are the average prices in counties around Western New York:
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 17 February 2025 at 12:32 pm
The National Weather Service has issued a lake-effect snow warning for Orleans and Monroe counties, with 10 to 18 inches of snow expected in the most persistent snow bands through 1 a.m. on Wednesday.
The Weather Service said there will be heavy lake-effect snow and blowing snow.
“Travel will be very difficult to impossible, especially this afternoon and evening,” the Weather Service said. “Areas of blowing snow will significantly reduce visibility, with near whiteout conditions at times.”
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 17 February 2025 at 11:19 am
‘There is so much good in Albion. How can we get people to see that?’
Provided image: “I Chose Albion” stickers and signs are expected to soon be available to show support for the Albion community.
ALBION – Rebecca Alexander and her family are grateful for the Albion community which has supporting their businesses, Dubby’s Tailgate and Dubby’s Wood Fired Pizza.
Alexander and her husband Brian and their children started the wood fired pizza business in the summer of 2019, selling pizzas from a portable trailer and oven they set up by Arnold’s Auto Parts in Albion. The pizzas sold out every Friday, week after week.
When they were looking to establish a restaurant with tailgate and backyard games, they considered Lockport, Brockport and Batavia, but ultimately chose Albion due to the community support. Dubby’s Tailgate opened in a warehouse on Platt Street in December 2021 with the restaurant following in November 2022.
“We have a good community,” Alexander said. “We just need that extra motivation to change that mindset.”
She thinks many in Albion can be overly negative, and quick to be naysayers about efforts to better the community.
Alexander shared those thoughts with Courtney Henderson, owner of a social media agency in Albion – Babe Cave IncYOUbator.
The two wanted to counter the negativity they see about Albion in many social media posts, the knee-jerk tendency by many to share gloom and doom.
Last week, Henderson and Alexander invited about 30 people from Albion who own businesses and lead local organizations to discuss why they chose Albion.
“There is so much good in Albion,” Alexander said. “How can we get people to see that?”
Photo by Tom Rivers: Courtney Henderson, left, and Rebecca Alexander led a discussion and presentation last week about the positives of living and working in Albion. Dubby’s Tailgate hosted the event.
Alexander and Henderson presented an image proclaiming “I Chose Albion” that will be available on stickers and yard signs.
Henderson acknowledged being a business owner in a small town is a tough task that is not unique to Albion.
She led the group of about 30 attendees in a discussion where they split up in small groups. They were asked to discuss the following:
What’s your vision for Albion’s future, and how do you see yourself contributing to it?
If you could tell someone considering Albion why they should choose it, what would you say?
What change or growth have you seen in Albion that excites you the most?
What made Albion the perfect choice for your business?
What first drew you to Albion, and what made you stay?
How has being part of the Albion community impacted your journey?
The attendees were asked to share on note cards why they chose Albion and what motivates them to invest their time and talents to the community.
One said her husband loves Albion and wants to see the community prosper. “His passion is admirable and I have joined forces.”
One chose Albion because of the Erie Canal and Santa history with the Santa School and Christmas Park.
Albion has a deep heritage, one person wrote, and has youth sports opportunities with Little League, football, wrestling and basketball.
“It’s close to home with affordable property, beautiful architecture and family-oriented,” another wrote.
One person said Albion has “magical qualities” and “intangibles” like the town from the Brigadoon musical.
Another person grew up in Albion and sees friends in town she has known since grade school. “It is nice to go places and see people you have known for years.”
One person who has been rec director for about 50 years said he will never give up on Albion. John Grillo said he is grateful to have been in youth sports, and to have coached kids and led the parks program.
One said Albion has been a place for their family to have a growing business and small-town values where neighbors know each other.
“I came here because I could buy a huge house with lots of property affordably,” one person wrote. “It was a great place to raise successful, well-rounded children. They had a great experience here.”
One person said Albion is “not too big, not too small” and offers affordable housing and opportunities to be in school sports and music programs.
Another said Albion is safe with a small town feel, “everything is right around the corner.”
Some of the organizations at the discussion at Dubby’s included representatives from the Village Board, Greater Albion Community Recreation and Events (G-ACRE), Albion Merchants Association, Albion Youth Sports Athletic Program (AYSAP), the Albion Lions Club Albion Ministerium, Albion Rotary Club, Albion Town Board, Albion Betterment Committee and Bring Christmas Back to Albion.
“We want to get the organizations on the same page and be a united front,” Henderson said.
She and Alexander would like to see the groups meet every three months and share their upcoming activities and programs so the organizations can help promote each other and make the events even better.
They encouraged more people to celebrate the good in Albion.
“Every journey begins with a single choice – the choice to believe in Albion,” they said in one of their slides. “It’s the choice to see beyond challenges and recognize opportunity, to invest in not just businesses, but in people, in dreams, and in the future we are building together. It’s the choice to embrace Albion’s rich history while shaping its next chapter. And tonight, as we come together, we celebrate that choice – because every investment, every idea, and every partnership forged here strengthens the foundation of a thriving, connected, and prosperous Albion. The best part? The story is being written, and we all have the power to make it extraordinary.”
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 17 February 2025 at 8:51 am
The National Weather Service in Buffalo has issued another winter weather advisory in Orleans County until 7 a.m. on Wednesday. The Weather Service said another 5 to 10 inches of snow is expected.
The Weather Service said the high for today will be 19 degrees with 1 to 3 inches of snow during the day, and another 1 to 3 inches possible overnight.
Tuesday is forecast for a high of 18 with another 1 to 3 inches of snow during the day, and another 1 to 3 inches overnight.
“Periods of heavy lake effect snow through Tuesday night,” the Weather Service said. “Travel will be very difficult. Areas of blowing snow will significantly reduce visibility. The hazardous conditions will impact the morning and evening commutes.”
(Editor’s Note: The union representing Medina firefighters sent in the following to the Orleans Hub, which also is posted in the Letters to the Editor section.)
MEDINA – For far too long, your Medina Professional Firefighters IAFF Local 2161 have remained silent over the numerous issues that have plagued the village and subsequently the fire department.
After the recent Village Board meeting on February 10th, we can no longer sit idly by while the Board’s inadequate preparation and poor execution of ill-conceived plans have put the public and firefighters at risk.
The lack of foresight and procrastination in planning for the inevitable costs associated with operating the fire department has culminated in many necessary, crucial
projects to be at the breaking point at the same time. The current situation we are in is a direct result of the poor planning and mismanagement of village resources and finances by the Board.
The lack of foresight and proper financial planning has led to a situation where multiple critical infrastructure and equipment needs are converging at once, pushing our department to a breaking point.
The following concerns must be addressed immediately:
1. Long-term planning ignored:
This poor planning and mismanagement dates back half a decade to Aug. 19, 2020, when a six-year plan was presented to the Board by Chief Jackson. That plan included needed upgrades to the Fire Station and equipment. On Oct. 25, 2021, Chief Jackson presented at a public hearing the needs of the Fire Department in replacing the 1996 Ladder Truck and upgrading the 1930’s-built building.
Despite these efforts, progress has been slow, and key elements of the plan remain unaddressed.
2. Inadequate Firehouse Facilities:
In November 2022, the Board was presented with a plan for a two-bay addition and crucial structural repairs to our current dilapidated firehouse, which was built in the 1930s for the DPW. This plan called for $4.5 million for the fire station and $1.5 million for the Village Office.
On Aug. 14, 2023, the Board voted to seek bonds up to $5.6 million for the firehouse. On Aug. 24, 2023, revised plans were received with an increased estimate of $6.4 million, with $1.1 million allocated for repairs and $5.3 million for the addition. Due to a long delay in the original quote and proposing a bond vote, the price of the project increased and the Board felt it was too costly.
The revised plan (that has not been approved) now includes only one apparatus bay and a bathroom, failing to address critical repairs to the existing facility at a cost of $1.04 million. This is wholly inadequate and does not meet the operational needs of our department.
For nearly a decade, $31,200 has been spent on two different engineering firms for multiple sets of plans, both of which were denied or ignored by the village Board. In addition, $20,000 was spent on purchasing the lot west of the village offices for proposed expansion (that was part of the original expansion plan for the Fire Department). While there may have been cause to change engineering firms and start the process all over again, the question is, why did it take so long?
3. Delayed and Costly Procurement of a New Ladder Truck:
The need for a new ladder truck was identified years ago, with an initial projected cost of $1.3 million in 2021. Due to the Board’s delay, a second request was made on June 26, 2023, at an approximate cost of $1.7 million, up $400,000.
The failure to act sooner has resulted in an increased financial burden on the village, ultimately costing taxpayers more while continuing to put firefighters at risk.
4. Severe Safety Risks Posed by the Current Ladder Truck Presented at the Last Meeting:
The existing 1996 ladder truck presents serious and unpredictable hazards, including:
An electrical fire near the batteries during a response on December 10, 2021, exposing firefighters to toxic smoke,
A brake drum failure on November 25, 2023, while the truck was in motion, posing a life-threatening risk to both firefighters and the public,
Numerous other mechanical and electrical failures that jeopardize the safety of our crews and the public daily.
This vehicle is essential for fire suppression, search and rescue, technical rescue, and firefighter assist and search team operations (utilized for rescuing trapped or injured firefighters). It serves not only our village but also supports neighboring departments in emergencies.
The decisions made by this Board directly impact the safety of our community and those sworn to protect it. We urge the Board to take immediate action. We implore the Board to expedite the necessary funding and repairs for our firehouse to ensure a safe and functional working environment. We invoke the Board to provide a clear, sustainable plan for equipment procurement that prevents unnecessary cost increases and safety risks.
The time for hesitation has passed. We call on the Village Board to prioritize these urgent needs and work collaboratively with the fire department to implement solutions that safeguard our community.
The next Medina Village Board meeting is on Feb. 24 at The Ridgeway Town Hall at 6 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Members of the Medina Professional Firefighters IAFF Local 2161
(The union’s leadership includes Stephen Miller, president; Timothy Miller, vice president; Andrew Cheverie, secretary; and Chris Seefeldt, treasurer.)
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 16 February 2025 at 3:29 pm
BATAVIA – American Legion posts in Genesee and Orleans counties welcomed department officers to the annual testimonial dinner Feb. 11 at Batavia Downs.
Master of ceremonies David Rumsey welcomed guests and assisted Jim Wells, commander of the Butts-Clark American Legion in Medina, in a POW/MIA ceremony.
The deaths were acknowledged of two Genesee County Legion members, Robert Elkins and Dave Henry.
Gaither Espey, a member of Sons of the American Revolution, told of the founding of the organization in 1932. He also shared his joy at visiting the New York State Veterans’ Home in Batavia and having the opportunity to sit down and talk with a 102-year-old veteran. He also urged people to make donations to the SAR’s National Emergency Fund. Membership to SAR reached 397,243 in 2024, he said. Nationally, they saw a 104% increase in members. Currently, Genesee County is at 69.6% of its membership goal, while Orleans County has reached 94.57%.
(Left) Cathleen Fox, president of the Orleans County American Legion Auxiliary, presents a gift to Gaither Espey, Department Detachment commander of SAR. (Right) Eileen Banker, representing Assemblyman Stephen Hawley, and Skip Draper, representing Senator Rob Ortt, present proclamations to Gaither Espey, Department Detachment commander. Also presenting a proclamation was Gregg Torrey on behalf of State Senator George Borrello.
Kimberly Quick of Albany, Auxiliary Department president, was introduced as a member and volunteer who has served in many capacities.
Sharon DeBottis, Genesee County Auxiliary president, is also liaison to the VA in Batavia. Her women’s auxiliary is sponsoring a Creative Arts Festival and looking for donations to the Legion Auxiliary Emergency Fund. They aided 16 veterans last year. She said national membership is at 85 percent and Genesee County is at 82.66 percent.
Following introductions of the rest of the head table, Department Commander Keith Koster shared his message to the membership.
Those at the head table of the State Department Officers’ Testimonial Dinner at Batavia Downs included, from left, Kimberly Quick, Auxiliary Department president; Sharon DeBottis, Genesee County Auxiliary president; Cathleen Fox, Orleans County Auxiliary president; Pattie Galley, 8th District Auxiliary president; Gaither Esprey, Department Detachment commander; Daryl Verstreate, Detachment vice commander 7th and 8th District; Joshua Spinler, 8th District Detachment commander; and Patty Woodworth, Orleans County Auxiliary chaplain.
Koster is a native of Schenectady, residing in Saratoga Springs with his wife of 39 years, Cindy. The couple has two children and two grandchildren. He is a graduate of Shenendehowa High School and went on to earn a bachelor science in applied arts and sciences at Rochester Institute of Technology.
A United States Navy veteran and cancer survivor, Koster has climbed all 46 Adirondack peaks to commemorate the American Legion Centennial in 2019. His election concluded the 106th Annual Department Convention on July 17-19, 2024 at the Niagara Falls Convention Center.
While in the Navy, Koster served as an electronic warfare technician aboard the USS Suribaci during the 1980s. His service included deployment to the Mediterranean.
After his honorable discharge, he joined Xerox Corporation as a technician and became an area service manager, retiring in 2021 after 33 years.
Also at the head table, from left, were Gary Bassett, Botts-Fiorito Post #576 chaplain Gary Bassett; Holly Trueman, Department vice commander 7th and 8th District; Timothy Van Patten Sr., National Executive Committee; Joseph Rich, 8th District commander; Peter Huth, Orleans County commander; Ryan Ditacchio, Genesee County commander; Department commander Keith Koster; and master of ceremonies David Rumsey, 1st vice commander of Genesee County.
A dedicated member of the American Legion, he has been a member of the Adirondack Post 70 in Saratoga Springs for more than 26 years, serving in a variety of positions, including post commander. Koster also served as commander on the county and district levels before serving a term as department vice commander. His Legion involvement extends to the national level, where he has served on four committees.
In 2021, State Senator Daphne Jordan inducted him into the Senate Veterans Hall of Fame.
Besides spending time with his family, he enjoys mountaineering, pickleball and ballroom dancing.
He shared two special projects he is passionate about – the Department of New York Temporary Financial Assistance Program and “Be the One” suicide prevention.
He also noted that all three state American Legion leaders are from Saratoga County, the first time that has occurred.
Koster urged posts to have more women’s events, and praised the Legion’s Boys’ and Girls’ State programs.
Photos courtesy of Dave Lockhart/photographer for the Legion’s State Department: (Left) Rachael Spearance from Sheret American Legion Auxiliary in Albion, presents a monetary gift to Auxiliary Department president Kimberly Quick during the Department Officers testimonial dinner at Batavia Downs. (Right) The American Legion’s State Department Commander Keith Koster of Saratoga Springs shared his goals for the organization during the annual testimonial dinner.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 16 February 2025 at 2:41 pm
Photo by Ginny Kropf: Scott Robinson, director of Marketing at Orleans Community Health, and OCH Foundation director Megan Johnson hold an invitation to the Foundation’s third annual gala, scheduled for March 1 at Bent’s Opera House.
MEDINA – The third annual gala to benefit Orleans Community Health Foundation will be a momentous occasion, celebrating the 100th year of the hospital in Medina.
The event March 1 will showcase generations who have worked at Medina Memorial Hospital and Orleans Community Health, said Megan Johnson, director of the OCH Foundation. It will also be the second year of presenting the George Bowen Award, named for the man who in the early 1900s saw a need in his community and started a hospital in a small house in Medina in September 1925.
The Bowen Award this year will honor two hospital supporters posthumously: Van Hungerford, a Medina native, entrepreneur and pillar of the community, and Dr. Ekran John Boulous, a dedicated supporter of the hospital.
Also honored will be Roland Howell of Medina, a longtime member of the hospital board back to the emergency room renovation in the early 1990s, and member of the Foundation Board for a number of years after that.
“He would come in at least once a month to get updates on the hospital,” said Scott Robinson, who is also great-great-grandson of George Bowen.
In addition to the awards ceremony, the gala, from 6 to 10 p.m., will feature signature drinks, heavy hors d’oeuvres and music by Ken Ryan and the Professionals.
Theme for the evening is “The Roaring ’20s,” and attendees are encouraged to wear period attire.
“We hope to see many people in 1920s garb,” Johnson said.
Also, in keeping with the theme, a 1928 Marmon owned by a friend of hospital CEO Marc Shurtz will be parked at the door.
The gala was developed by Johnson after becoming foundation director several years ago.
“The idea for a gala with the caliber of ‘black tie’ had been kicked around for several years, but never materialized,” Johnson said. “I picked it up and ran with it, and it has been a tremendous success. We get a large attendance of Medina people and personnel from the surrounding area.”
She said they are trying to have events which appeal to people from all backgrounds and with all kinds of interests. They already sponsor a golf tournament and the Treasure Island raffle fundraiser, and for those who like to walk, they are planning “Walk a month in a nurses’ shoes” event.
“The average nurse walks more than 100 miles in a month,” Johnson said.
“We are trying to involve everyone in the community,” Robinson said. “We are hoping to have a jitterbug demo at the gala.”
He stressed all proceeds benefit the hospital.
Tickets for the gala are $150 and may be purchased online at www.orleanscommunityhealth.org/gala or by stopping in the Foundation office in the hospital lobby.
Courtesy of NYS Thruway Authority: Consumers are receiving text messages that are presented as an attempt to collect tolls.
Governor Kathy Hochul today is warning New York consumers of E-ZPass text message scams. Consumers have reported receiving SMS text messages attempting to collect tolls.
These fake texts are often sent from an international number and request the consumer to reply with “Y” to receive a link and contain an unofficial website. Consumers should be aware that E-ZPass or Tolls by Mail will never send a text or email requesting sensitive personal information such as credit card, birthday, Social Security number or other personally identifiable information.
“Public safety is my top priority, which is why I’m urging New Yorkers to take caution against senseless scammers sending fake E-ZPass text messages in an attempt to collect money for fake, unpaid tolls,” Governor Hochul said. “Consumers should know that E-ZPass, or Tolls by Mail, will never send a text or email requesting personal, sensitive information.”
If you are unsure about a message you received, call E-ZPass directly at 1-800-333-8655 or Tolls by Mail at 1-844-826-8400. You may also directly access the official websites from your browser at: EZPassNY.com and TollsByMailNY.com.
If you receive a fraudulent or suspicious SMS text message of any kind and have questions, you can contact the New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection Consumer Assistance Helpline at 1-800-697-1220, Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm; excluding State Holidays. Consumer fraud complaints may also be filed at any time with the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Tips to follow if you or someone you know receives a fraudulent SMS text message:
Don’t reply to text messages from unknown numbers. It could lead to a scam. Be wary of unsolicited messages from unknown senders that request personal information or payments and don’t respond to the message.
Don’t click on any links in the message or attempt to access a website through the text.
Delete and report the message using your phone’s “report junk” option. Forward unwanted texts to 7726 (SPAM) and unwanted emails to your email provider. Use the reporting features that are built into devices or email platforms. Reporting suspicious phishing messages is one of the most efficient methods for protecting you as it helps identify new or trending phishing attacks.
Block the sender’s email address or phone number.
Remember, it’s always better to be cautious. If you’re unsure of the legitimacy of a message, avoid engaging with the sender.
Clicking a link from a fraudulent text message puts your personal information and money at risk. Scammers may be able to:
Install ransomware or other programs in your device that can spy on your online activity or hold your device hostage by encrypting your data and demanding payment to unscramble it.
Gain access to your personal or sensitive information — including passwords, credit card numbers, banking PINs, etc. This information can be used to take out loans or credit cards in your name or perform other fraudulent financial transactions.
LOCKPORT – On March 14 the annual Agribusiness Outreach Forum will be held at the Niagara County Cooperative Extension.
It is sponsored by the Niagara County Center for Economic Development, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Niagara County, Niagara County Farm Bureau, the Niagara County Small Business Development Center and National Grid. As with past years, there will be two parts to the program.
First is a series of workshops. These include building your agribusiness through marketing and networking, mastering the art of find, writing and being awarded Ag grants, understanding state and federal priorities for CCE, and recruiting and retaining H2A workers.
Throughout the day, various agricultural organizations will have displays and personnel on hand to answer your questions. In the past year, these have included to Cornell Cooperative Extension of Niagara County, Empire State Development, Farm Credit East, NCCC Small Business Development Center, National Grid, NY FarmNet, NYS Department of Ag and Markets, NYSERDA, NC Dept of Economic Development and IDA, Niagara County Farm Bureau, NC Soil and Water Conservation District, Niagara USA Chamber of Commerce and the Farm Service Agency.
This year’s facilitator is Niagara County Farm Bureau President Kevin Bittner.
“This event is designed to bring together farmers across the region for educational sessions on topics important to agriculture,” he said.
In addition to learning about the various topics, he enjoys the networking with other farmers, companies and agencies. Because this is geared to new and growing farms, there are many long term benefits to the community.
Every year this forum has concentrated on various topics. Past presentations have focused on energy, creating business plans, health care for migrant workers, and ag district laws and regulations. At the end of the day, participants are invited to give suggestions for next year’s program.
Registration is free. Click here for information to sign up.
Jason Cogovan, left, discusses The Medical Loan Closet in Medina with Randy LeBaron.
Good morning! Grab your favorite cup. Fill it up. And let’s start this day right… TOGETHER!!!
First and foremost I want to thank everyone who reached out to tell me they were glad to have Refill back. I appreciate you all and look forward to sharing more positive stories and highlighting the people and organizations that make me glad to be a part of Orleans County.
On that note, today I want to share about a valuable resource that many may not be aware of. I am talking about The Medical Loan Closet which is located at 711 Park Ave. in Medina inside The Olde Pickle Factory. The Loan Closet is run by the Medina Lions Club and I had a chance to sit down and have coffee with Jason Cogovan who co-chairs The Loan Closet with fellow member Dave Bellucci.
Jason, who has only been a member since 2023 after retiring from his work in Corrections, said that he was interested in joining the Lions Club because it was something his grandfather had been very involved with and he really connected with their motto, “We Serve.”
Jason describes the Lions Club as a non-political service organization that helps local communities and the world. Just this past year the organization helped with the Medina Yard Sale, helped people in need of glasses and hearing aids, had over 400 calls to The Medical Loan Closet, and even sent surplus inventory to Ukraine to help people in need in that war-torn country. In addition to the many other events that the Lions Club assists with each year the members are encouraged to take turns being on call with The Loan Closet two weeks at a time to oversee pick-ups and drop-offs.
The Medical Loan Closet is located at 711 Park Ave. at the Olde Pickle Factory in Medina. (The Kendall Lions Club also runs a medical loan closet for people in eastern Orleans County.)
Not long ago I called in myself to inquire about getting a lift chair for a friend who fell in her home, resulting in badly bruised knees and a broken neck. Having to wear a neck brace for 7 weeks along with complications with her knees made leaning back, and getting out of, her recliner very difficult so a specialized chair was suggested.
After making the initial call I was able to put my friend Jeanne Martillotta of Albion and her husband Walt in touch with Jason who was able to provide them with not just any chair but one that had belonged to Jason’s father Ray and which has already been used by a few different individuals since being donated. Jeanne was very thankful for having access to the chair during a difficult time and will now be bringing it back to The Closet for the next person to use.
Jeanne Martillotta appreciates use of a recliner after a recent injury.
When borrowing something from The Loan Closet there is a contract signed by the community member which includes an estimation of how long the item will be used for before being returned. Jason said that people are very appreciative of having access to these items and seem happy to return them for the next person to use.
There have also been times, including this past week, where Jason is driving to The Closet after picking an item up only to get a call requesting that exact item. When asked who could borrow from the closet Jason said the only requirement was to have a need. Though The Loan Closet is primarily promoted throughout Orleans County it is not uncommon to get a request from another county without a Loan Closet and Medina is happy to help.
Another thing I asked Jason, since the Medina Lions Club does not charge any fees for these services, is if they accept donations. His response was that they do but that it’s not necessary because the reality is that the items are already being donated for free by community members and even the space where the inventory is stored has been generously donated by Roger Hungerford, the owner of The Olde Pickle Factory. The Lions Club simply view themselves facilitators making it possible for community members to help other community members.
Currently, The Loan Closet has an inventory of hospital beds, lift chairs, wheel chairs, walkers, canes, scooters, commodes, shower safety equipment, etc. along with other supplies such as bed sheets, adult diapers, and more.
Although assistance in transporting items may be possible depending on the circumstance it is recommended that individuals plan to provide their own way of picking up or dropping off items.
So, if you or someone you know either has a need or has something to donate all you need to do is call (585) 205-3502 and a member will be happy to assist you.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 15 February 2025 at 4:13 pm
A forecast of snow, sleet and ice has some churches cancelling Sunday morning services.
The following are closing on Sunday:
Canalside – North Point Capel in Albion (online service happening at 10:30 a.m.)
First Presbyterian of Albion (annual meeting rescheduled to March 9)
The Vine in Medina (formerly Calvary Tabernacle Church)
Gaines Carlton Community Church (retirement reception for Pastor David Beach will be rescheduled)
First Baptist Church of Albion
Christ Episcopal in Albion
St. Peter Lutheran Church in Medina
Concordia Lutheran Church in Kendall
Oak Orchard Assembly of God in Medina
Trinity Lutheran Church in Medina
Disciples United Methodist Church in Clarendon
Eagle Harbor Methodist Church
Yates Baptist Church
Barre Center Presbyterian Church
Lyndonville Presbyterian Church
Lyndonville United Methodist
New Hope Community Church in Medina (First Baptist Church of Medina)
The Grove United Methodist Church in Medina
The forecast calls for 5 to 10 inches of snow with most of the new snow accumulation occurring later Sunday morning through Sunday night and ice accumulations up to two tenths of an inch, according to the National Weather Service in Buffalo.
Total number down about 8,000 from previous year; Iceland Gull joins the count for first time
Photos courtesy of Celeste Morien: Bird counters spotted a Northern Cardinal, left, and a Blue Jay.
By Celeste Morien, count compiler for Oak Orchard Swamp Christmas Bird Count
BASOM – The Audubon Oak Orchard Swamp Christmas Bird Count was held on Dec. 27. Weather was warm for the date, with an actual low (26F) higher than average and an actual high (43F) much higher than average.
The maximum snow depth was 2 inches. Moving water was partly open and marshes were frozen following cold earlier in the week. The day was precipitation free and clear until afternoon clouds moved in over the region.
Forty-one counters found 70 species, two less than last year and just over 12,000 individual birds, almost 8,000 fewer birds than in 2023. Counters logged 49 hours on foot and 57 hours by car. Counters walked 58 miles and drove 494 miles by car.
A celebratory dinner was held at Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge after the count. Hearty thanks go out to the many participants who volunteered to devote their day to an assessment of local bird populations. Many thanks to our sponsor, Friends of Iroquois NWR, for graciously providing the meal for all who participated. Special thanks to Iroquois Refuge Staff Manager Tom Roster for providing the venue. Many thanks to Park Ranger/Visitor Services Manager Logan Sauer for managing our arrangements and to Refuge Biologist Paul Hess for coordinating coverage with enthusiastic Fisheries Staff in covering the many diverse areas of the refuge. Last but not least, a big thank you to NYSDEC Winter Raptor Survey Coordinator Elena Greco for coordinating, and raptor survey volunteers for counting on the winter raptor survey team that evening.
Participants made high counts of 16 species and found one new species, Iceland Gull on Glenwood Lake in Medina.
High counts for the following species were Cackling Goose (34), Bald Eagle (32), Sandhill Crane (18), Iceland Gull (1), Rock Pigeon (689), Red-bellied Woodpecker (94), Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (4), Merlin (4), Blue Jay (283), Common Raven (9), Tufted Titmouse (46), Carolina Wren (14), Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1), Golden-crowned Kinglet (39), White-throated Sparrow (125) and Hermit Thrush (2).
There were 965 Dark-eyed Juncos in the annual bird count.
The lower count of total individuals can mostly be attributed to lack of open water for any lingering waterfowl. A good number of our high counts can likely be attributed to our warming winter temperatures and southern species that have moved northward and successfully adapted.
Here are the numbers for species seen in the count:
