By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 5 January 2026 at 2:35 pm
The average price for regular unleaded gas in New York State dropped 2 cents in the past week to $3.03 today, which is also down 10 cents from a year ago, AAA reported.
Nationally, the average price is $2.81 a gallon, which is down 25 cents from a year ago.
“The holiday season offered lower gas prices for travelers who hit the road in record numbers,” AAA said. “Motorists are benefitting from a strong supply of gas and the cheaper-to-produce winter blend of fuel when it comes to price at the pump.”
Oil prices remain low, AAA said, in the $56-60 range per barrel.
“Despite the events in Venezuela over the weekend, there has been little disruption in the oil markets,” AAA said. “If these trends continue, drivers should see the national average remain well below the $3 per gallon threshold in the coming weeks.”
Diesel prices are also on the decline with the national average at $3.52, down three cents from last Monday, and the New York average at $3.87, down two cents from a week ago.
Here are the average prices for regular unleaded in WNY counties:
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 5 January 2026 at 10:15 am
Former Medina HS will host 20 artworks with 10 to 12 others in Medina
Photos by Ginny Kropf: A handful of guests enjoyed brunch at the Triennial Hub on Saturday and participated in a discussion on ideas for Medina’s upcoming inaugural Triennial this year. From left are Karin Laansoo, co-curator; Federico Rosario, Community Engagement and Program coordinator for the Triennial Hub; and Shirley Verrico, operations manager.
MEDINA – The Medina Triennial hosted a brunch and informative session Saturday afternoon at their hub at 345 North Main St., for the purpose of explaining the features of the initiative, getting ideas and to share the Triennial’s goals and opportunities for work and volunteers during 2026.
The brunch was hosted in collaboration with the Medina Area Partnership, Medina Railroad Museum and Orleans County YMCA. Leading the discussion were Federico Rosario, Community Engagement and Program Coordinator; Shirley Verrico, operations manager; and Karin Laansoo, co-artistic director with Kari Conte.
They explained the reason Medina was chosen for this inaugural initiative, scheduled to take place June 6 through Sept. 7 in various locations in Medina, was because Medina embodies the convergence of industry, agriculture, immigration and civic life. The town is also rich in cultural and ecological significance, situated between Buffalo and Rochester and surrounded by farmland, wetlands and canal infrastructure.
When the New York Power Authority and New York State Canal Corporation met to discuss what to do with an aging waterway, they began planning this event as a broader effort to revitalize the canal. They agreed 150% on choosing Medina for the location, said Verrico. She also added that Medina has an amazingly active antique community.
“We agree with their choice 200% and I hope everyone in Medina does as well,” Laansoo said. “I was so happy when people at the community brunch applauded and agreed with Medina being the best possible choice.”
“One thing about Medina is it has a lot of landmarks,” Rosario said. “And the canal has a strong presence in the area, with Medina Falls, the aqueduct and the culvert on Culvert Road.
Laansoo said the question gets asked a lot during meetings when they introduce the triennial and explain where Medina is.
“We usually say that historically Medina was the widest point in the Erie Canal where boats could turn around,” she said. “Medina has a lot going on for a village of 6,000 people – a well-preserved Main Street, it is rich in culture and ecology, surrounded by farmland, wetlands and infrastructure. Obviously, an amazing community, as well. “
Also announced on Saturday was the creation of a book club, which will meet every third Saturday, with the first one scheduled Jan. 23. The first book chosen is The Mezzanine by Nicholas Baker, and copies were available on Saturday.
Guests take part in a discussion on Saturday at the Triennial Hub on North Main Street, sharing ideas and asking questions about the first-time Triennial expected to bring 50,000 people to Medina from June to September.
A highlight of Saturday’s meeting was the announcement of a movie to be filmed by a renowned Mexican artist and composer. Filming will be on March 28 at Medina High School, 324 Catherine St. The are looking for singers, movers, vocal enthusiasts and attentive listeners. All voices, bodies and abilities are welcome to audition. No experience is needed. Applications must be submitted by Jan. 30 by e-mailing info@medinatriennial.org.
In addition, a plea was issued for housing for artists, preferably within walking distance from downtown and the high school, mostly in April and May.
In all, 400 volunteers from the community are going to be needed, including guides who will be trained to help visitors engage with the artwork. Opening hours for sites hosting artwork are still being finalized, but public spaces with artworks will, of course, be accessible 24/7, Laansoo added.
Twenty artists will show their work at the old Medina High School, while others will be at 10 to 12 other sites, all within walking distance of downtown. Light renovation and painting at the high school have already begun, and thanks was issued to Roger and Heather Hungerford for their generosity in allowing use of the building. Most of the artwork will be on the second floor, with some on the first floor as well.
Types of art represented will include a large variety of different mediums, such as video, sound, paintings, photos, textiles, sculptures, prints and even a floating garden.
One artist who has already been here is Mary Mattingly, who will develop a garden on a floating barge. The barge arrived in the fall and work will continue on it when the water returns to the canal this spring.
Among those who attended Saturday’s brunch were Medina historian Todd Bensley and his wife Nicole.
“This is a very exciting opportunity for Medina to showcase everything we have,” Todd said.
Funding for the Triennial comes from the New York Power Authority and the Canal Corporation, Laansoo explained. In essence, NYPA functions like a self-sustaining business, using its power generation and sales to fund operations, new projects and state initiatives, all without relying on state taxes.
“The Triennial still needs to fundraise quite a bit, because everything is very expensive and it is important for it to be free to the public, so we are working hard to get additional funds,” Laansoo said.
In closing Saturday’s event, Verrico said, “We want to be here for visitors. We want to collaborate with all of you. We know art. We don’t know Medina.”
Provided photo: A new class has completed the Microenterprise Assistance Program through the Orleans EDA. A new class will start in the spring. Pictured from left include Michael Hughson, Peter Poodry and Kim Poodry, Carolyn Odalovic, Dawn Hungerford, Maggie Olles, Becky Harris, Stacy Buckland, Kimberly Haight and Timothy Seibert.
Press Release, Orleans Economic Development Agency
ALBION – The Orleans County Local Development Corporation celebrated the graduation of 10 entrepreneurs from its Fall 2025 Microenterprise Assistance Program on Oct. 30, marking another successful cohort in the program’s 26-year history of fostering small business growth in rural Western New York.
The graduating class represents a diverse cross-section of Orleans County’s entrepreneurial landscape, spanning industries including landscaping, property maintenance, welding and fabrication arts, professional dog training, hospitality and tourism, massage therapy, specialty food production, and 3D design services.
The Fall 2025 MAP graduates include:
Michael Hughson, Certified Dog Trainer
Peter Poodry and Kim Poodry, Riverview Campground
Carolyn Odalovic, 3-D Inspirational Designs
Dawn Hungerford, Dust and Rust Fabrication
Maggie Olles, Long Bridge Greenery
Becky Harris, Confection Connection
Stacy Buckland, Massage Therapist
Kimberly Haight and Timothy Seibert, Orleans Heating-Cooling and Property Maintenance
“This was an excellent mix of different types of businesses at varying levels of experience, which always makes for interesting course discussions and learning experiences,” said MAP Program Manager Matt Holland. “I am excited to watch these businesses develop into their next phases.”
The comprehensive 10-week program provides participants with essential business education, covering accounting fundamentals, banking relationships, business plan development, marketing strategies, legal requirements, taxation, pricing strategies, and financial management. Expert instruction is delivered by seasoned professionals from the Small Business Development Centers in Niagara and Brockport, along with local business mentors.
By program completion, each participant develops a comprehensive business plan that serves as a roadmap for growth and a critical document for accessing capital. Graduating from MAP is a prerequisite for applying to the OCLDC Microenterprise Grant Program, which awards between $10,000 and $35,000 to qualifying Orleans County-based entrepreneurs.
Program Impact
Since its establishment in 1999, the Orleans County MAP has graduated over 570 individuals, with more than 200 successfully launching businesses throughout the county. The program is funded through a combination of New York State Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds and OCLDC resources, reflecting a commitment to building sustainable economic opportunities in rural communities.
The initiative addresses a critical need for entrepreneurial support in communities under 50,000 population, providing access to business education, technical assistance, and capital resources that are often unavailable in rural areas. The program specifically supports microenterprises – businesses with five or fewer employees – which form the backbone of the local economy.
Spring 2026 Program
The next MAP cohort will begin in April 2026, with applications opening in mid February. The course fee is $300, with financial aid available for qualifying applicants based on demonstrated need. Prospective entrepreneurs aged 18 and older who maintain a permanent residence or business in Orleans County are encouraged to apply. Applications will be available in early 2026.
For more information about the Microenterprise Assistance Program, grant eligibility requirements, or to schedule an informational interview, contact Matt Holland at mholland@orleansdevelopment.org or call (585) 589-7060 ext. 1.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 5 January 2026 at 8:34 am
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced the per-acre payment rates in the $12 billion Farmer Bridge Assistance Program.
The money comes at a time for a reeling agricultural sector that is seeing higher costs from tariffs and inflation, and shrinking markets for their crops, especially from a trade war with China.
“These one-time payments give farmers the bridge to continue to feed and clothe America and the world while the Trump Administration continues opening new markets and strengthening the farm safety net,” U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins said on Dec. 31. “USDA is making this process as simple and seamless as possible so producers can focus on what they do best – feeding and fueling our nation.”
The funding includes $11 billion in one-time payments.
These are payment rates per acre for the FBA eligible commodities:
Barley: $20.51
Canola: $23.57
Chickpeas (Large): $26.46
Chickpeas (Small): $33.36
Corn: $44.36
Cotton: $117.35
Flax: $8.05
Lentils: $23.98
Mustard: $23.21
Oats: $81.75
Peanuts: $55.65
Peas: $19.60
Rice: $132.89
Safflower: $24.86
Sesame: $13.68
Sorghum: $48.11
Soybeans: $30.88
Sunflower: $17.32
Wheat: $39.35
The remaining $1 billion of the $12 billion in assistance is reserved for specialty crops and sugar. Timelines for payments to producers of these crops are still under development and require additional understanding of market impacts and economic needs, the USDA said.
In Orleans County, the top crops in acres include 39,354 in corn for grain, 24,739 in soybeans for beans, 14,208 for vegetables, 11,590 in forage (hay/haylage), and 6,953 acres of apples, according to the county’s 20122 census of agriculture.
That census reported there are 444 farms in Orleans County that generated a market value of $223.6 in farm products in 2022. The $233.6 million in Orleans ranked 15th highest out of the 62 counties in the state.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 4 January 2026 at 9:34 am
Geno Allport’s family have been season ticket holders since 1974, a year after stadium opened
Photos courtesy of Allport family: Geno Allport holds daughter Hensley at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park.
ALBION – It’s not just a football stadium to Geno Allport. The Buffalo Bills are in his family’s DNA, he proudly says, and today’s final regular season home game at Highmark Stadium will be an emotional farewell.
Geno’s family have been season ticket holders since 1974, a year after the opening of what was Rich Stadium. The home of the Buffalo Bills has been called Ralph Wilson Stadium “The Ralph”, New Era Field and Highmark.
The Bills will move to a new $2.1 billion stadium next season. The current facility will be demolished.
Geno, 51, said going to the games has been a strong bonding experience for him with his father and grandfather, and also his son and other family and friends.
“I was born and raised there,” he said on Saturday before today’s finale. “I have all the memories with my mom, dad and grampa there. Hopefully I can create new memories with my kids in the new stadium.”
The Allports will continue to be season ticket holders at the new stadium, but Allport said people who have been in the seats close to them will have spots elsewhere in the stadium. Other long-time fans close to them opted against buying season tickets at the new stadium.
Geno was hoping the current stadium would stay. It has been significantly upgraded over the years. It is the fifth oldest stadium in the NFL.
Geno has been to every home game since 1981, including in Covid when fans weren’t allowed. Allport was able to get a job in security to be at the games in 2020.
When Geno was a kid, the family parked near the players’ lot. Geno would get their autographs and his mother would get photos of him with the Bills players. Now, they aren’t nearly as accessible.
The only game he missed was in October 2006. A freak snowstorm on Oct. 12-13, moved back the playoff game for Albion’s youth football team coached by Allport. He coached that championship game for the Albion team on a Sunday. (He tried to push the game back but the league set it for the same time as the Bills game.)
Tre Allport, 31, has been a regular with his father at the Bills games. In bottom right photo he is shown with retired quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, a Buffalo Bills legend.
Allport said the Bills have provided many incredible victories over the wins. He counts the 51-3 win over the Raiders on Jan. 20, 1991. That demolition of the Raider sent the Bills to their first Super Bowl. The Bills used their no-huddle offense led by Jim Kelly to torch the Raiders that day, running up 41 points by halftime.
“They could do no wrong,” Allport said. “Everything went right.”
He remembers another game from a dark time in the Bills era. They were 0-11 when the mighty Dallas Cowboys came to town on Nov. 18, 1984. The Bills beat them 14-3 with running back Greg Bell gaining 206 yards, including an 85-yard touchdown on the first play. The Bills finished 2-14 that season, and also in 1985.
The team became a powerhouse in the late 1980s and first half of the 1990s with Jim Kelly, Bruce Smith, Thurman Thomas and Andre Reed among the star players. They remain the only team to ever make it to four straight super bowls.
The fans would endure a 17-year playoff drought from 2000 until the 2017 season. Led by Josh Allen, the team has now made the playoffs seven straight years.
Allport loves the team, but he loves the people next to him in the stands even more.
The past 25 years, the Allports have had six seats at section 135, row 12, seats 1 through 6.
Before his family heads to today’s game, Allport will go to the Bates Road Cemetery in Medina to stop by gravesites for his parents, Gene “Lou” Allport and Pam Allport.
Geno considered ending his season tickets after this season. But his daughter Hensley, age 7, loves the team, too.
“We will keep going next year,” he said. “I don’t want my youngest one to miss out.”
He is grateful for the many friendships he’s made in the stands. They have watched his son, Tre, grow from a boy to a man. Tre is 31 and endured the 17-year drought before experiencing a team that has made the playoffs eight of the past nine years.
“I wish it wasn’t happening,” Allport said about the finale at the stadium. “I was born and raised there. It will be a sad day. I’ve been dreading it since they announced it.”
Allport said the new stadium won’t be the same mainly because many of the long-time fans who are his friends won’t be right next to him.
“You get used to the people around you,” he said. “We are all yelling to support the team. Next year we’ll be making new friends.”
File photo by Tom Rivers: Geno Allport proudly displays his love for the Buffalo Bills at his Albion home. He was the Buffalo Bills Fan of the Year in 2021. The Allports have been season ticket holders since 1974, and Geno was also recognized for his leadership with Albion youth football.
RIDGEWAY – Ridgeway firefighters & EMTs responded to 378 emergency incidents in 2025, making this a record high year for us!
Broken down:
214 EMS
9 Structure Fires, including a chicken coop fire, 3 barn fires, and multiple house fires
5 Vehicle Fires, including a lawn mower, a farm sprayer and a combine
8 Brush Fires
1 Misc. Fire – a power substation
23 Motor Vehicle Accidents, including 1 requiring extrication
10 Automatic Alarms
59 Hazardous Conditions
2 Fire Police Requests
8 Good Intent Calls
1 Water Rescue – multiple stranded kayakers on Oak Orchard Creek
19 Mutual Aid including 1 ice water rescue in Medina, 12 fill-ins to other agencies, and 9 working structure fires.
We averaged 8 personnel in attendance at each incident.
Outside of calls, volunteers hosted our normal fundraisers including 2 sportsman raffles, Fathers’ Day Chicken BBQ, 2 vendor shows, money raffle, toy show and our new trailer raffle!
Volunteers have worked multiple birthday parties, retirement parties, weddings, funerals and other rentals.
Crews attended multiple parades in Lyndonville, Albion, Medina, Middleport and Wildwood KOA!
Members even started some new traditions to work in our community even more. Firefighters & EMTs met with a Home School group to have a Fire Safety day!
Firefighters attended multiple classes. In 2025 Ridgeway gained: 7 Exterior Certified FFs, 2 went onto Interior Certified FFs, and 4 EMTs.
We are excited to see what the year 2026 brings with new members, trainings and ways we can engage our community! We’re always looking for more membership. Firefighters, EMTs, Drivers, Fire Police or even social membership are needed to help with events! We’re at our Ridge Road Fire House every Tuesday Evening at 7 p.m.
We thank all of you for your continued support to our Fire Company! Without you, there would not be an us.
The 2026 Ridgeway Fire Operational Line Officers are as follows:
Fire Chief – Tyler Luckman
Deputy Fire Chief – Kristin McAdoo
Assistant Fire Chief – Gerald Lewis
Fire Captain – Jason Bessel
Fire Lieutenant – Austin Mosher
Fire Lieutenant – Buford McAdoo
Safety Officer – Donald Marchner
Fire Police Captain – Paul Wengrzycki
Fire Police Lieutenant – (Not yet announced)
EMS Captain – Morgan Austin
EMS Lieutenant – Page Smith
The 2026 Ridgeway Fire Executive Line Officers are as follows:
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 3 January 2026 at 7:50 pm
Congressional representatives for Orleans County are reacting to the U.S. military action in Venezuela, where President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were taken from Caracas, the capital, and brought to New York City to face indictments charging them with narco-terrorism and conspiracy to import cocaine.
‘The idea that Trump plans to now run Venezuela should strike fear in the hearts of all Americans.’ – Chuck Schumer
Chuck Schumer, the Senate Democratic Leader, released a statement after the military action against Venezuela was launched without congressional authorization and Trump’s announcement that the U.S. would “run” Venezuela.
“Let me be clear: Nicolás Maduro is an illegitimate dictator. But launching military action without congressional authorization and without a credible plan for what comes next is reckless.
“The administration has assured me three separate times that it was not pursuing regime change or taking military action in Venezuela. Clearly, they are not being straight with Americans.
“The idea that Trump plans to now run Venezuela should strike fear in the hearts of all Americans. The American people have seen this before and paid the devastating price.
“The administration must brief Congress immediately on its objectives, and its plan to prevent a humanitarian and geopolitical disaster that plunges us into another endless war or one that trades one corrupt dictator for another.
“To district from skyrocketing costs Americans face and the historic cover up of the Epstein files, Donald Trump is attempting to throw Americans into more international chaos and uncertainty.”
‘This operation sends a clear message that the United States will stand firmly against tyranny and corruption that threaten US security in our hemisphere.’ – Claudia Tenney
U.S. Rep. Claudia Tenney, NY-24, praised President Trump for leading the action against “tyranny.”
“Last night, under the leadership of President Trump, Secretary Marco Rubio and Secretary Pete Hegseth, the U.S. conducted a decisive and successful action against Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro and his illegitimate regime,” Tenney said. “This operation sends a clear message that the United States will stand firmly against tyranny and corruption that threaten US security in our hemisphere.
“I also want to recognize the brave men and women of the United States Military for carrying out a flawless operation with professionalism, precision, and strength. Their service continues to protect freedom and uphold American leadership on the world stage.
“Nicolás Maduro was not only a brutal dictator, but an indicted drug trafficker. The people in Venezuela now have the opportunity to pursue freedom and prosperity.”
‘The Constitution and international law are not optional.’ – Kirsten Gillibrand
U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, issued the following statement”
“Nicolás Maduro was a thuggish dictator who abused his power, his people, and refused to accept the results of elections. No one disputes that he should be held accountable for his crimes.
“But the Constitution and international law are not optional. The administration must justify these actions to my fellow members on the Senate Armed Services Committee and explain to the American people how this was a justified act of war against a foreign country.
“After repeatedly telling me and my colleagues that it was not seeking to do so, the administration must also explain why they would carry out this military operation to perform regime change without authorization by Congress and how the United States is going to ‘run’ Venezuela indefinitely without putting our service members in harm’s way.
“Beyond this flagrant breach of trust, I remain concerned that the administration’s actions are not the end of something, but the beginning of chaos and instability in the region that threatens our service members, our allies, and American security.
“The administration must lay out a concrete plan to ensure peace and stability in Venezuela and the Western Hemisphere, with transparency and in consultation with Congress.”
More 200 social media posts, TikTok videos and many appearances
Photo by Brenda Tremblay: In one of his boldest outings, Orly the Ox went kayaking on Glenwood Lake and made it close to the Medina Waterfalls on Aug. 18. He met up with the Buffalo paddle People, a kayaking group that goes to sites all over WNY. Orleans County is popular with kayakers, especially the Oak Orchard Creek and Glenwood Lake in Ridgeway.
Photo by Isabella Zasa: Orly the Ox made it to the top of the Mount Albion Tower in one of his journeys in Orleans County in 2025. Orly had more than 200 social media posts on Facebook and Instagram about local historical sites, notable residents of the past and local attractions. Orly also went kayaking, hydro-biking, skateboarding and tackled many adventures in Orleans County during all four seasons. Orly also is featured on about 200 TikTok videos.
By Natalie Baron, Orleans Hub contributor
ALBION – Orly the Ox has completed a busy year promoting Orleans County, highlighting prominent spots and other locations and people that were lower profile.
Isabella Zasa and Tom Rivers were the driving force behind Orly’s adventures in 2025. Zasa works as a tourism assistant and digital content creator for the Orleans County Tourism Department, Rivers is the Orleans Hub editor. Both are members of the Orleans County Bicentennial Committee.
The committee picked an ox as a mascot for the county to celebrate the 200th anniversary in 2025. Oxen were critical in transporting early settlers across rough terrain. The oxen helped clear land and plow fields. They are somewhat underappreciated for their important role with the early settlers.
The committee wanted to recognize the oxen and acknowledge their link to the pioneers. The group also decided to have an ox in costume as a fun way to promote the bicentennial.
“Orly” was initially intended to just appear in Medina’s Parade of Lights in 2024, walking in front of the Bicentennial Committee’s float that included an ox statue. But Orly was popular along the parade route. (Lucy Rivers, the daughter of Tom Rivers, wore the costume in that parade with her sister Cordelia following up at Albion’s lighted parade in December 2024.)
Orly’s look was created by Robyn Watts of Medina, who makes many of the costumes for the Medina musical products and also for Lake Plains Players. She gave Orly a vest with all 10 towns, four villages and some of the hamlets. She also embroidered some of the early names – Newport for Albion and Saltport for Holley.
Zasa noticed how Oswego County uses a character, Ozzy the Elf, to highlight sites in that county. She suggested an ox be used to showcase places in Orleans County. Orly was activated last January for the task, and he kept up a busy pace, with at least five social media posts a week.
Zasa and Tom Rivers worked as team on the social media posts. They would share the duties of wearing the costume, taking the photos and writing the blurbs.
Zasa put together an active social media presence for Orly on TikTok, Facebook and Instagram. Tourism’s Facebook followers have nearly doubled in the past year from 2,300 to 4,500 and many of the Orly posts get hundreds of likes.
Catherine Cooper, Orleans County’s historian, loves Orly and said he has helped the community better understand local history.
“Orly’s delight in exploring the treasures of Orleans County is infectious,” Cooper said.
Zasa said the Orly posts connected with many in the public, who enjoyed the authentic storytelling over AI-generated content.
“We covered the bigger attractions and hit the smaller niche things,” she said. “It was to promote the county in a fun way.”
Photos by Marsha Rivers: (Left) Isabella Zasa, a tourism assistant and digital content creator for the Orleans County Tourism Department, takes a picture of Orly on West State Street in Albion by the historical marker for Grace Bedell, an Albion native who wrote a letter to Abraham Lincoln, urging him to grow a beard during the presidential campaign in 1860. Lincoln took her advice. Bedell, 11 at the time, was living in Westfield at the time when she sent the letter. (Right) Tom Rivers, Orleans Hub editor, takes a photo of Orly holding a cake with “200” with the Orleans County Courthouse in the background. This was right before the April 15 anniversary of when Orleans County was officially recognized by the State legislature as its own county, after splitting off from Genesee County. Rivers and Zasa took most of the Orly photos and wrote the features about him in 2025. They also took turns wearing the Orly costume throughout the year.
Orly picked up fans outside of the county, too. The NYS Canal Corp. often would like and share his social media posts and invited Orly to the bicentennial celebration to kick off the 200th anniversary of the canal season, a ceremony that was cancelled due to flooding on the eastern end of the canal.
Zasa said Orly helped people learn about the county, with people from other towns seeing assets that didn’t realize. The post about Orly climbing Mount Albion Tower included comments from people in Medina who didn’t realize there was a 68-foot-high tower in the back of the cemetery.
Rivers has worked as a local reporter for nearly 30 years now. He has done features about many of the local sites over the years. He saw the Orly features as a challenge to see how well he knew the community. He was also able to draw on historical columns from Catherine Cooper and past county historians, Matt Ballard and Bill Lattin.
Another way the community got to connect with Orly was via the Flat Orly challenge, where people could color printouts and take him on an adventure, snapping a commemorative photo. Flat Orly was featured in New York City, Iowa and other states. These photos were featured on Orly’s social media pages.
Orly was named the Grand Marshall of Albion’s Strawberry Festival. He also attended the Lyndonville parade, Barre tractor parade, and the Albion Christmas parade.
Orly was intended to be a 2025 phenomenon, and then head to retirement. But Rivers and Zasa said Orly is much loved by many people who would be sad if he went away.
They concocted a storyline were Orly meets up with a long-lost brother, Scout, and the two will work together in 2026, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the USA.
Zasa and Rivers also want to make a book of Orly’s 2025 adventures, an effort that will be a fundraiser for the Cobblestone Museum.
Click here to see Tourism’s Facebook page to see more of Orly’s adventures.
Photo by Isabella Zara: Orly the Ox ended his active year of 2025 by being reunited with his brother Scout at Welker Farms on Sanderson Road in Shelby. Scout was added to the storyline for Orly, giving him a brother as a partner in 2026 to help celebrate the 250th anniversary of the country. Robyn Watts made both of these ox costumes. Orly has a vest with the names of towns, villages and some of the hamlets in Orleans County. Scout has a more patriotic themed vest.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 3 January 2026 at 8:14 am
MEDINA – Orleans Community Health has announced it has been awarded a grant from the Garman Family Foundation, administered by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, to expand pediatric services, live-saving education and family support programs for children in Orleans County.
The funding will help OCH deliver a holistic and equitable approach to pediatric wellness, addressing critical needs in a rural community where child poverty, limited transportation, high infant mortality rates and a shortage of medical providers continue to impact families. More than 1,500 children and families are expected to benefit within the first year of the initiative, according to information provided by Scott Robinson, director of Marketing for OCH.
“Families in our community deserve access to care and education that protect children’s health and empower parents,” said Megan Johnson, executive director of Orleans Community Health Foundation. “This generous grant allows us to expand resources beyond the clinic walls – bringing safety education, mental health support and essential pediatric equipment directly to the families who need it most.”
The project supported by the Garman Family Foundation will include:
Free Infant CPR and Newborn Care Classes for parents and caregivers, eliminating the need for families to travel long distances for live-saving training.
A Pediatric Wellness Fair, offering education and health resources for local families.
Mental Health and Behavioral Support Tools, including the certification of a pediatric nurse practitioner in the evidence-based COPE (Creating Opportunities for Personal Empowerment) program and the use of anxiety-reducing tools during visits.
Preventative Child Safety Resources, including helmets, first aid kits and coping tools to reduce emergencies and injuries.
Important Clinical Upgrades, including pediatric exam tables and an infant warmer for safe and effective care.
A New Children’s Reading nook and Books Distributed at Well Visits to promote early literacy and development growth.
Leah Brunner, pediatric nurse practitioner who serves children in both OCH’s Medina and Albion offices, shared how the funding will enhance care from the moment the families walk in the door.
“Parents want to feel confident caring for their children, and kids deserve a safe, supportive place to grow,” Brenner said. “With this grant, we can offer families more education, more tools and a more welcoming pediatric environment. It strengthens care for every child who comes through our doors.
Press Release, State Senate Republican Leader Robert Ortt
ALBANY – Following disturbing reports of widespread fraud involving taxpayer dollars in Minnesota, members of the Senate Republican Conference have penned a letter to the Governor’s Office urging her to immediately hire a private professional services firm to conduct a truly independent audit of programs administered by state agencies to ensure that public funds are only being distributed to authorized organizations and individuals, and utilized for authorized activities.
Further, Senate Republican Leader Ortt will be introducing a bill to require an independent audit of New York State government programs by a professional third party and to mandate that all findings of fraud or abuse will be promptly referred to appropriate law enforcement authorities.
These actions follow recent revelations of rampant fraud and abuse of taxpayer dollars uncovered by investigative reporting in Minnesota, including schemes that reportedly involved sham daycare centers.
“If Governor Hochul isn’t alarmed by what’s happening in Minnesota, New Yorkers will lose even more trust in how their hard-earned tax dollars are being spent,” said Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt. “The Governor must do her job and guarantee this isn’t happening here. If nothing is amiss, there is no excuse for refusing a comprehensive, independent audit. Failing to act would be an extreme disservice to taxpayers.”
An independent audit is necessary to root out all similar schemes currently underway here in New York, Ortt said. For example:
$68 million in Medicaid fraud committed by a Brooklyn adult daycare operator uncovered by the Department of Justice in August.
The State improperly paid over $2.6 billion in Medicaid premiums for people who do not live in New York.
$13 million in Medicaid fraud for transporting patients to medical appointments.
$7 million in Medicaid fraud for fraudulent billing.
“This issue is especially urgent given that dozens of counties across New York have already exhausted their allotted state funding for the Child Care Assistance Program,” the Republican senators state in the letter. “At a time when resources are strained, it is essential that available funds are protected and directed exclusively to those who truly need assistance. Moreover, with reports that your administration may advance a proposal for universal pre-kindergarten in the upcoming legislative session, ensuring these programs are efficient, transparent, and free from fraud should be a shared priority for all New Yorkers.”
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 2 January 2026 at 5:55 pm
MEDINA – The Village of Medina will be hosting a major arts initiative this year, with 50,000 people expected to visit Medina to see works by 35 different artists showcased at 12 sites in the community.
The Medina Triennial is the first initiative of its kind in the region. It will feature artists from around the world from June 6 to Sept. 7 to see the exhibits and public programs.
The Triennial welcomes the community to see how they can volunteer and be a part of the event. There will be a complimentary brunch and information session at the Triennial’s headquarters on Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m. The Triennial “Hub” is located at 345 N Main St. (the former NAPA Auto Parts building).
“We’ll be answering frequently asked questions and announcing volunteer/employment opportunities in a very casual sit-down style conversation,” said Federico Rosario, Community Engagement & Programs Coordinator for the Triennial. “This event is an opportunity to hear about the Triennial’s goals and upcoming volunteer and work opportunities.”
The Triennial is an initiative of the New York Power Authority with funding from other sponsors, too.
Photos courtesy of Lyndonville Lions Club: Carla and Terry Woodworth were recognized for Overall Best Holiday Display Award. They received a commemorative plaque and a bottle of champagne.
Press Release, Lyndonville Lions Club
LYNDONVILLE – The Lions from Lyn“Who”ville were busy at their Hall.
They were readying awards for those who honored the call.
Those who hung lights, wreaths and Holiday balls.
Those who strung lights from trees and from walls.
The awards went to some but could have been given to all.
Some displays were massive and some were small.
The Lions traveled the roads to view them all.
Some displays had lights, some had bows and some had nothing, nothing at all.
The Lions recognize them come one and come all.
The winners of awards held them high and they held them tall.
So, the Lions would like to say thank you and Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas to all.
The Lyndonville Lions continued a much-anticipated recognition of the Holiday Spirit shown by the Village of Lyndonville and Town of Yates residents. Three categories were awarded in the village and town as the best holiday decorations were singled out.
Winners received a plaque that recognizes the hard work undertaken by those decorating their homes for the Christmas season. They were supplied with a bottle of bubbly to help them celebrate their achievement and the New Year. There were several displays in and around town noted to be worthy of honorable mention.
Best Single-Color Lighting Display
Best Holiday Inflatables Display
Currier & Ives Award – Most Traditional Display
Best Holiday Display in the Town of Yates
Best Holiday Display in the Village
The Lions would like to thank all for participating in the holiday illumination project in and around Lyndonville during the Christmas Season. We would encourage all to take a moment to view the holiday decorations and enjoy the season.
May God continue to shed his many blessings on our residents and we wish everyone a Happy New Year!
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 2 January 2026 at 2:27 pm
Photo by Tom Rivers: The Clarendon Town Board met this morning for the 2026 organizational meeting. From left up front include Town Councilman Fred Seeman, Councilman Chris Caufield, Town Clerk Susan Colby, Town Supervisor Marc Major, Councilman Allen Robinson and Councilman Bruce Hovey.
CLARENDON – The Clarendon Town Board met this morning for its annual organizational meeting where appointments are made and salaries set for different positions in the town government.
The board held off on making appointments to three positions that have been held by Melissa Ierlan. She was charged on Tuesday by State Police with two felonies – falsifying business records in the first degree and second-degree grand larceny with property value exceeding $50,000.
Ierlan has been serving as Clarendon’s code enforcement officer and building inspector, the administrator of Hillside Cemetery and also the town historian. She also is president of the Clarendon Historical Society, which is separate from the town government.
Town Supervisor Marc Major said he has no comment at this time about the allegations against Ierlan. The State Police also hasn’t provided any information except listing the charges on the daily blotter report.
Fred Seeman, Ierlan’s husband and a town councilman, said State Police have provided little information to him and Ierlan except to say the allegations involve the Historical Society.
The board during the organizational meeting tabled filling the code officer/zoning inspector at a salary of $44,440; the cemetery caretaker/administrator at an annual salary of $7,293; and the town historian at a salary of $1,950.
Some of the other appointments include:
Cemetery maintenance for $7,150, Tracy Chalker
Dog enumerator at $2,280, Susan Colby
Planning Board Chairman – David Griggs, with Patrick White as deputy chairman
Deputy Town Supervisor at $1,298, Allen Robinson
Cleaning Service at $65 a week, Michelle Chalker of Save Time Cleaning
Water Superintendent at $10,402, Tracy Chalker
Water District billing clerk at $20 an hour, Donna Moore
Water District collection clerk at $5,244 annual salary, Linda Barrett
The board also set the following pay rates and salaries:
Highway superintendent, $66,977; foreman in highway department, $31.32 per hour; full-time motor equipment operator, $30.73 an hour (top rate) and $30.59 an hour for other MEO; part-time MEO, $22.73 an hour; part-time cemetery laborer, $17.14 an hour.
Assessor, $27,281; assessor clerk/bookkeeper to the supervisor, $27,891; town clerk/tax collector, $47,114; primary deputy town clerk, $21 an hour; secondary part-time deputy, $16.20 an hour; part-time records deputy, $16.20 an hour.
Planning Board chairman, $126 per meeting; members, $31 per meeting; Board of Assessment Review, $150 per hearing day; secretary to Board of Assessment Review, $250 annual salary; four town council members, $4,202 annually; town supervisor, $12,988; budget officer, $806; town justice, $16,200; court clerk, $20 an hour; registrar of vital statistics, $408 annually.
The board also named the Suburban News/Westside News as the official newspaper to carry legal notices; Five Star Bank as the official town bank; the mileage reimbursement rate at 70 cents per mile; and meal reimbursement for meetings/conferences not to exceed $68 per day.
