Press Release, State Senator Rob Ortt

Rob Ortt

With the signing of Senate Bill S.593A, New York families will have much easier access to Down syndrome resources with the creation of the Down Syndrome Diagnosis Awareness Program.

“This is a big win for parents and advocates who have been working tirelessly to get more resources relating to Down syndrome,” Ortt said.

Parents and healthcare providers will now have access to up-to-date, evidence based information about Down syndrome including expected physical, developmental, education and psychosocial outcomes. The program will also include information on life expectancy, the clinical course description, expected intellectual and functional development, and available intervention and treatment options.

Resources such as information hotlines specific to Down syndrome, local and national Down syndrome organizations, relevant resource centers and clearinghouses, and any other information deemed relevant by the health commissioner will be provided electronically through the department’s website.

“Thank you to the dedicated staff at GiGi’s Playhouse, especially Emily Mondschein for her tenacious efforts behind the scenes in helping create this bill and championing it in the Legislature,” Ortt said. “I’d also like to thank my colleagues in the senate and assembly for unanimously passing this important piece of legislation – and to Governor Hochul for signing it into law.”

“There is no longer an excuse for outdated, discriminatory information about Down syndrome during diagnosis, when the information now exists for all to access on the Department of Health’s website,” said Emily Mondschein of Gigi’s Playhouse, which provides support and programming for people with Down syndrome and their families. “This is a positive step in the right direction towards ensuring expectant women are fully supported.”

Mindy Cervoni, president of the Developmental Disabilities Alliance of Western New York, said, “This bill has been one of our organization’s top legislative priorities. Knowledge is power, and this legislation will give both knowledge and power to New York families affected by Down syndrome. We are grateful to Senator Robert Ortt and  Assemblywoman Karen McMahon and all who have championed this legislation, and we thank Governor Hochul for agreeing to sign it.”

Senate Bill S.593A will go into effect in 180 days from its signing.

MEDINA – The Medina Village Board has again declined to task the Village Planning Board with taking up the issue of drafting zoning to allow backyard chickens.

The Village Board on Oct. 28 voted 3-1 to not refer the issue to the Village Planning Board. Diana Baker cast the lone vote in support of having the Planning Board look at the matter. Trustee Jess Marciano was late to that meeting due to jury duty in Buffalo.

At Monday’s Village Board meeting, Marciano went on the record stating her support for having the Planning Board review the issue and consider a possible recommendation on zoning to allow chickens.

Marciano said she posed the issue on Facebook to gauge some public input. Of her 54 repsondents, 20 or 37 percent were “absolutely no” while 11 or 20 percent were in favor with no restrictions, while 23 others or 43 percent favored with some restrictions.

“I believe a compromise could be reached,” Marciano said in making a motion to send the issue to the Planning Board.

Kate Hardner of Lyndonville and a Medina resident again asked the board to allow up to six chickens – with no roosters.

Hardner and supporters of “For Cluck’s Sake” have attended parades and had a booth at the Orleans County 4-H Fair, trying to build support for the cause. Hardner said a small group of chickens are not livestock, and they provide nutritional and mental health benefits for families.

In Lyndonville, the Planning Board sent a proposed ordinance to allow chickens, but the Village Board last month decided to take no action on the issue.

Village Trustee Debbie Padoleski said in her discussions with village residents most people overwhelmingly view chickens as farm animals that shouldn’t be permitted in the village.

“If people want them they can go outside the village,” Padoleski said.

She said the Planning Board is very busy “with a lot of things on their plate.” She would prefer the board of volunteers be focused on business development in Medina, and not be tasked with a chicken ordinance.

Trustee Diana Baker said the Planning Board should have an opportunity to weigh in on the issue.

“Let’s see what works and doesn’t work for our community,” she said.

 Mayor Marguerite Sherman said she also took an informal poll while going to grocery store and talking to about 50 people. She said 31 were a “hard no” while 6 were in favor with restrictions and 6 were a yes with no restrictions. Others didn’t have an opinion, she said.

When the issue was brought to vote – whether to send to the Planning Board – it was opposed by Sherman, Padoleski and Mark Prawel. So no action will be taken.

Photo courtesy of Ric Jones: High school students from Medina, Albion and Lyndonville are shown with the choir, singing with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra on Saturday. Students who were chosen to participate were Ryder Jones, Emily Geiger, Noah Fox and Ella Trupo.

Students from Medina, Albion and Lyndonville had the honor to sing with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra’s Aspiring Voices program

The director of the BPO chorus reached out to chorus directors from Erie, Niagara and Orleans counties and invited them to nominate two of their top singers, one female and one male, said Jennifer Neroni-Trupo, music teacher at Lyndonville High School. There were 20 high school students total who participated from across Western New York, she said.

Neroni-Trupo nominated Noah Fox, a tenor, and Hannah Marker, an alto, from Lyndonville. Hannah, however, wasn’t able to participate because she was performing in the Nutcracker on the same dates. Neroni-Trupo’s stepdaughter Ella Trupo, a senior at Albion High School, was selected from Albion.

“It was such an honor for the students,” Neroni-Trupo said. “As a performer, I love working with an orchestra. I remember as a student, my first time performing with the RPO with a choir and loving every moment of it. I’m so happy these students have that same opportunity now. I’m so proud of every one of them.”

Ric Jones said his son Ryder had a wonderful time and was incredibly honored to be chosen to sing with the BPO.

“We are incredibly proud of Ryder and all of the students selected for this honor,” Ric said. “It was wonderful to see and hear them perform. What an incredible experience to be able to perform with the world-renowned musicians and under the baton of Joanne Faletta.”

Emily Geiger of Medina said participating in an ensemble of this caliber is something she will never forget.

“It was truly an incredible opportunity and I am so thankful to have been selected to participate this year,” she said.

This is the second year of the Aspiring Voices Program, in which Medina first participated last year. Singers attended rehearsals on Monday evenings in preparation for the concerts

Two other Medina students, Riley Tompkins and Ava Blount are performing with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra at Kodak Hall on today and on Dec. 20.

ALBION – Joe and Heather Tomasino, owners of Joe’s Tires LLC, have generously donated backpacks and tires to Community Action of Orleans and Genesee.

This contribution will support the agency’s mission to assist individuals and families in achieving self-sufficiency and improving their quality of life.

Joe’s Tires LLC at 15753 Ridge Rd. W in the Town of Murray is committed to giving back to the community. When the Tomasinos purchased Transit Tire in December 2023, they wanted to continue the legacy of affordable tires and excellent customer service, but they had no way of knowing just how much the community would embrace the new business.

“We are so grateful to this county for their support,” said Joe Tomasino. “We wanted to give back in a meaningful way that benefited everyone.”

Joe’s Tires owners Joe and Heather Tomasino, right, donated backpacks to Community Action of Orleans & Genesee. They are shown with Renee Hungerford, left, the CEO of Community Action, and Ricky Standish, the facilities manager.

When Tomasino talked to the representative from Continental Tires, they were quick to add their support by contributing the backpacks. This support between customers and businesses exemplifies community partnerships and highlights the importance of local businesses fostering community development.

Community Action of Orleans and Genesee is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing services and programs that address the needs of low-income residents in the region. Their initiatives include emergency services, employment support, education, and housing assistance, all aimed at empowering community members to overcome economic challenges.

The donation from Joe’s Tires LLC will directly benefit the community by providing essential resources to those in need. The backpacks will be distributed to students and individuals requiring basic supplies, while the tires will aid in transportation needs, ensuring safe and reliable travel for families and individuals.

“We are deeply grateful to Joe and Heather Tomasino for their generous donation,” said Renee Hungerford, CEO of Community Action of Orleans and Genesee. “Contributions like these enable us to continue our work in supporting the community and making a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.”

Photo by Tom Rivers

ALBION – Statewide Aquastore Inc. from East Syracuse is nearly done with construction of a new 750,000-gallon water tank on Route 98 in the Town of Gaines.

Aquastore submitted the low bid of $1,369,000 for the project. The new tank is a glass-fused steel tank. Aquastore employees said they expect the new tank will be complete in January.

It will mostly serve the Town of Carlton. Water is kept in the tank and backflows into the Carlton waterlines.

The new system replaces the previous 1-million-gallon tank that was built in 1962.

The former tank was torn down a $1,527,000 bid from STC Construction of Springville. That bid also included installation of new piping, valves and a meter pit.

ALBION – A day after announcing the Albion Main Street lift bridge was on target to reopen on Dec. 26, the reopening has been pushed back slightly.

Village Trustee Joyce Riley said she was notified today by the state Department of Transportation the bridge won’t be ready Dec. 26, but should open very soon.

The DOT and village will wait until the reopening is certain before putting out a date.

The bridge has been closed to traffic since Nov. 14, 2022. When it closed, the DOT estimated it would reopen in 18 months or the spring of 2024.

But there have been delays in getting materials for the project, pushing the completion back.

The bridge was originally built in 1914. It is one of 16 lift bridges on the Erie Canal, and one of seven in Orleans County.

Press Release, Genesee & Orleans County Health Departments

While many people find the holidays to be joyful, they can be a difficult and a stressful time for some. This is especially true for those who battle with mental health or substance use difficulties.

During this season, the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) and the Genesee and Orleans County Mental Health Departments want to encourage everyone to be proactive and to know where to get support.

“This can be a challenging time for many people,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for GO Health. “We want people to look out for others and know where to go for support.”

Tips for mental health well-being during the holiday season:

• Accept your feelings: It is okay to feel overwhelmed or sad. Allow yourself to process emotions without judgement. Help is available.
• Stay connected: Reach out to friends, family or someone you trust.
• Set boundaries: It is okay to say no to things you can’t take on.
• Take breaks: Listen to music, take a walk, or do something you enjoy.
• Maintain healthy habits: Avoid the use of drugs or alcohol. Instead, consider using healthy substitutes such as exercise or relaxation methods.
• If you use drugs, never use them alone and always have someone with you.
• Carry naloxone (Narcan), which can save a life during an opioid overdose. For free naloxone, text KIT to 877-535-2461.

“Help is always available and just a call away,” stated Danielle Figura, director of Orleans County Mental Health. “Reaching out to someone you trust or calling the Care & Crisis Line (585-283-5200) can be the first step toward hope and healing.”

Understanding the risk factors and warning signs of someone experiencing a mental health crisis can promptly prevent a crisis from occurring.

“Warning signs are often missed, dismissed or overlooked until it’s too late,” stated Lynda Battaglia, director for Genesee County Mental Health. “It is vital to remain vigilant and engage in open conversations. Be proactive so that together we can ensure that no one feels alone or without hope.”

Know the signs of a mental health crisis. Risk factors include:

• A history of depression, anxiety or trauma.
• Increased use of alcohol or drugs.
• Lack of social support or healthy relationships.
• Access to dangerous items like firearms or medications.

Warning signs include:

• Talking about wanting to die or feeling hopeless.
• Making concerning statements about self-harm.
• Sudden changes in behavior, such as mood swings, withdrawing from social activities, acting anxious, giving away possessions, or reckless behavior.
• Trouble sleeping.

How to help others:

• Ask questions: Check in with them and offer support.
• Listen without judgement: Be a good listener and show compassion.
• Reassure them: Remind them that they are not alone and that help is available.
• Secure dangerous items: Remove access to weapons or pills.
• Carry naloxone (Narcan) to respond to an emergency.

The following are some mental health and substance use resources available:

Orleans County Mental Health

14014 State Route 31 Albion, NY 14411

(585) 589-7066

Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Genesee County Mental Health

5130 East Main St. Rd., Suite 2 Batavia, NY 14020

(585) 344-1421

Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Walk-in hours from Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988 or visit and chat at 988 Lifeline.

Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 (press 1) or text 741741.

SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) – A confidential, free 24-hour helpline that can provide referrals to local treatment facilities and support groups. To find a local treatment facility, visit FindTreatment.gov. To find support for issues with mental health, drugs, or alcohol, visit Samhsa.gov/find-support.

If you or anyone you know needs additional support during this time or anytime of the year, Care & Crisis Helpline at (585) 283-5200 or call or text 988 the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

This is OOH’s second warming center, following one at Christ Episcopal Church in Albion

Press Release, Oak Orchard Health

Provided photo: The Brockport First Baptist, at 124 Main St., will serve as a warming center during Code Blue, when temperatures drop below 32 degrees.

BROCKPORT – Oak Orchard Health, which runs a warming center at Christ Episcopal Church in Albion, is opening a second warming center – at Brockport First Baptist, 124 Main Street, in the heart of Brockport.

The Monroe County Department of Human Services collaborated with OOH to make this warming center possible. This collaboration addresses the needs of people without housing when the temperature is below 32 degrees (“Code Blue”).

If an individual needs evening shelter during Code Blue, they can call (585) 340-1355, and have access to a warm, safe place to stay. The Brockport Community Warming Center is open as needed during the week, on weekends, and overnight.

During holidays, the Center is open 24 hours a day. People who stay at the Brockport Community Warming Center will also have access to services from Monroe County and local non-profits, ensuring a comprehensive approach to their well-being.

To stay warm during the day when the Warming Center is not open in Brockport, people can go to the Seymour Library, 161 East Ave, Brockport, during regular business hours.

“December 23 marks the opening of the Brockport Community Warming Center,” said Karen Kinter, CEO, Oak Orchard Health. “Oak Orchard is proud to participate in this effort to make this valuable resource open to the public. We could not make the Brockport Community Warming Center a reality without the support of Monroe County. We are so grateful to them and all the volunteers who made this a reality. Oak Orchard will be responsible for staffing and coordinating the opening of these community resources.”

On January 16th at 1 p.m. we will be having a grand opening with a ribbon cutting at the Brockport Community Warming Center. More details to come.

In 2023, Oak Orchard successfully opened the Orleans County Warming Center, serving 63 people who used the site on the 110 Code Blue days. New York State mandates that if the weather drops below 32 degrees, it’s considered “Code Blue,” and the community must provide shelter.

These Warming Centers will provide a safe haven for adults during frigid temperatures. If children need shelter, we will not turn them away; instead, we will work with the Department of Social Services to find a safe place.

Also, it will be available to seniors living in substandard housing who have their power shut off due to their inability to pay. They can find warmth and people to assist them with advocacy, transportation, and the resources needed to return to their homes.

Press Release, Medina Police Department

MEDINA – On April 29, a burglary occurred at the Orleans Ford car dealership on S. Main Street in the Village of Medina.

During the burglary, there was significant property damage, and a 2022 Ford F-450 pickup truck was stolen. During the course of the investigation, it was determined that the stolen vehicle had been transported to Florida.

The vehicle was recovered and returned to the owner in May. The investigation determined that two individuals from Buffalo entered the dealership, damaged property inside, and then stole the truck, transporting it to Buffalo. The third suspect flew from Florida to Buffalo on the morning of the burglary, took possession of the truck and drove it to Florida.

On July 26, Nasib Karazhyev, 30, of Buffalo, was arrested for Burglary 3rd (D Felony), Grand Larceny 2nd (C Felony), Criminal Mischief 2nd (D Felony), and Criminal Possession of Stolen Property 4th (E Felony). Karazhyev was arraigned through the Centralized Arraignment Process and released on his own recognizance.

Following grand jury proceedings, county indictment warrants for the above charges were issued for two additional suspects:

Luis Guilarte, 29, of Naples, Florida, was arrested in Collier County in Florida on Dec. 13.  On Dec. 18, Guilarte was extradited to New York and is currently awaiting arraignment on these charges through the Centralized Arraignment Process.

An indictment warrant has also been issued for an additional suspect, Craig Lynch, 23, of Buffalo. Lynch was recently extradited to North Carolina and is currently being held in the New Handover County Jail on an unrelated homicide charge.  The indictment warrant has been forwarded to N.C. as a detainer if he is being released on their charges.

The Medina Police Department Officers leading this investigation were Felicia Holtz and Jonathan McManus.  The Medina Police Department would like to thank the Collier County Sheriff’s Office (FL), Niagara and Erie County Crime Analysis Centers, Niagara Falls Transit Police, Lancaster PD, U.S. Secret Service, and the Orleans and Erie County District Attorney’s Office.

Photos and information courtesy of Lyndonville Lions Club

The Lions Club decorated a tree and served hot dogs and hamburgers during Lyndonville’s festival of Christmas trees on Dec. 7.

LYNDONVILLE – The Lyndonville Lions had a busy month of December to wrap up their 2024 agenda.

On Dec. 7 the Lions furnished hot dogs and hamburgers to a hungry crowd attending the Village of Lyndonville Christmas Tree Lighting Festival. The day long activities included a morning brunch, an extensive craft show and various other venues for people to visit.

The evening culminated with the arrival of Santa courtesy of the Lyndonville Fire District.  Cool temperatures and a bitter cold north wind did not stop attendees from seeing Santa flip the switch as he illuminated over 85 Christmas trees in the village park.

The Lions held their final meeting of 2024 on Dec. 11 which was followed by their annual Christmas dinner party. All of the participants were treated to Christmas melodies performed by Mr. Kevin Clark from Lockport.

His Christmas performance includes a Christmas trivia challenge, name that tune contest and as always, a closing session of Christmas caroling.

During this event the Lions collected Christmas presents to be donated to the Genesee/Orleans Ministry of Concern.  The Club also financially donates to this organization throughout the year to support the needed work they carry out all year long.

The Lions Club held their Christmas Party on Dec. 11 at the White Birch.

On Dec. 12 the Lions carried out their annual poinsettia delivery for shut-ins in the Town of Yates.  Annually, the Lions provide a small bit of holiday cheer with the delivery of a poinsettia plant to local shut-ins during the Christmas season.

On Dec. 13, the Lions supported the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign. A monetary donation was given from the club along with sessions of Lions Club and Leo Club members ringing the bell at Tops Market in Medina.

Donors were treated with a heartfelt holiday thank you and candy canes. The Salvation Army is the largest non-government provider of social services in the United States and one of the top five worldwide. The Lyndonville Lions were proud to support their efforts.

Lyndonville Lions Club members, Julie & David Godfrey and Jeff & Lynne Johnson, rang the Salvation Army Red Kettle at the Tops in Medina.

The Lyndonville Lions would like to thank all those who have supported the Lions during the year. The club is actively planning for 2025 and further details of upcoming events will be forthcoming in the near future.

During this time of year, we are reminded of the biblical verse from Luke 2:11: “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”

We wish all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.  We ask that God continues to bless you and your family and this great nation we live in.

Press Release, Assemblyman Steve Hawley

Steve Hawley

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) has been reappointed deputy minority leader and received his committee assignments for the upcoming legislative session.

“Right now, New Yorkers are facing record-high inflation and costs at the gas pump and checkout line,” Hawley said. “As elected officials, it should be our primary goal to ensure working families cannot just get by, but thrive in our state. I’m proud to be able to continue this work as both a committee member and leader in our conference to bring common-sense policies back to New York.”

Hawley will be a member of the Agriculture, Insurance, Rules, Veterans’ Affairs and Ways and Means Committees. Hawley is proud to have received these appointments and looks forward to bringing common-sense policy back to Albany.

“I am proud to once again announce the appointment of Assemblyman Steve Hawley as Deputy Minority Leader,” said Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay (R,C-Pulaski). “His proven leadership and wealth of experience will be invaluable to our conference as we navigate the challenges of the 2025 Legislative Session. I have every confidence in his ability to remain a strong voice for a better, more affordable New York.”

Orleans County could get 2 to 4 inches of snow on Friday and the temperatures will plummet into a deep freeze over the weekend, the National Weather Service in Buffalo said.

The temperatures will then warm up next week, including a high of 39 on Christmas.

Today is forecast for a high of 30, followed by a high of 32 on Friday. Saturday will reach 22 with an overnight low of 10, followed by a high of 18 on Sunday with an overnight low of 8.

Monday will be sunny with a high of 27, followed by a high of 36 on Tuesday and 39 on Wednesday (Christmas).

ALBION – After more than two years of being closed and under construction, the Main Street lift bridge is expected to reopen to traffic on Dec. 26, Village Trustee Joyce Riley said today.

The state Department of Transportation and contractors working on the project were hoping it could reopen on Dec. 19, but another week will be needed, Riley said.

The bridge has been closed to traffic since Nov. 14, 2022. When it closed, the DOT estimated it would reopen in 18 months or the spring of 2024.

But there have been delays in getting materials for the project, pushing the completion back.

The bridge was originally built in 1914. It is one of 16 lift bridges on the Erie Canal, and one of seven in Orleans County.

The rehabbed bridge has new high-strength galvanized steel to replace the steel floor system and select truss members. The project also included upgrades to the mechanical and electrical components of the lifting mechanisms, with improvements to the lift tower.

The bridge railing and guide rail on the bridge approaches have been improved and the bridge has been repainted.

The DOT accepted a $28.3 million construction bid for both the Albion and Brockport lift bridges with Crane-Hogan Structural Systems in Spencerport as the general contractor for both bridges.

The Brockport bridge also has been delayed. It was scheduled to reopen in September but has been pushed to February.

This photo from Dec. 8 shows the view on Main Street on the south side of the bridge. The closed bridge has diverted most of the traffic to village side streets and the Ingersoll Street lift bridge.