It’s going to a very cold weekend in Orleans County with a high of 22 today and 1 to 3 inches of snow possible, followed by an even colder Sunday with a high of 18, according to the National Weather Service in Buffalo.

Then the high temperatures will be in the 30s with 31 on Monday, 35 on Tuesday and 34 on Christmas.

Then the highs are forecast for 36 on Thursday, 40 on Friday and 45 on Saturday.

Photos courtesy of Orleans County Sheriff’s Office

ALBION – Several members of the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office – deputy sheriffs, marine deputies, corrections officers and volunteer clergy – joined 14 children last Saturday in “Shop with a Cop” at the Albion Walmart.

The store provided a $5,000 grant, up from $4,000 in 2023, for the Sheriff’s employees and representatives to help kids pick out gifts for their family members.

Chief Deputy Jeff Gifaldi, left, and Sheriff Chris Bourke enjoyed shopping with some youngsters.

Bourke said he appreciates Walmart’s ongoing support to the effort each year.

 “It was our pleasure to take part in this event,” Bourke said. “We thank Walmart for their generosity.”

Deputy Shannon Brent helped this young shopper pick out some gifts for family members.

Deputies James White, left, and George Barton were friendly faces for these shoppers.

Deputy Jeff Cole and clergy volunteer Don Snyder assisted this family with their shopping.

Deputy Matt Prawel was among the Sheriff’s employees who provided a lending hand.

Lt. Adam Hazel patrols the aisles assisting this young shopper in pursuit of Christmas gifts.

Joe Morelle and Claudia Tenney both voted yes this evening in a continuing resolution to avoid a government shutdown.

Morelle, a Democrat from Rochester, and Tenney, a Republican from Oswego County, both supporting the bill to keep the government funded until March 14. Morelle and Tenney both have districts that include Orleans County, although Morelle’s new redrawn district will exclude Orleans County when the new term starts in January.

The legislation passed 366 to 34, with the 34 no votes all from Republicans.

Morelle issued this statement after the vote:

 “While I am relieved the essential programs and services relied upon by millions of people across the country will not be disrupted by a government shutdown, I am deeply disappointed that Republicans broke their word and are choosing the interests of billionaires like Elon Musk over the interests of seniors, veterans, and working families. The American people deserve—and should demand—better.

“In spite of the recklessness my colleagues have displayed, I remain committed to finding a bipartisan solution to fully fund our government and forging a path forward to address the real challenges facing our nation.”

Provided photo: Santa Claus waits for his physical at Medina Memorial Hospital in preparation for his very busy day on Dec. 25.

MEDINA – Good children everywhere will be happy to know Santa Claus passed his annual physical at Medina Memorial Hospital, meaning he is fit and ready for his flight around the world on Christmas Eve.

Orleans Community Health/Medina Memorial Hospital made the announcement today, saying several departments at the hospital participated in the physical.

For those wondering why Santa selects Medina Memorial Hospital as the location of his yearly physical, there are several reasons. Most importantly is the little-known fact that Santa Claus used to help in Medina’s Imaging/Radiology Department during his off season. This is the fourth year he has received his physical at this location, according to Scott Robinson, director of marketing at the hospital.

“It’s always a privilege to see Santa Claus, especially so close to the Christmas holiday,” said Jennifer Doran, patient registration manager at Orleans Community Health. “With all of the many things on his mind, we were delighted he remembered his ID, insurance card and copay for the services. This helped to expedite the process.”

“While we don’t typically release patient information, Santa Claus signs a yearly waiver with us due to the significance of this visit,” Robinson said. “Once again, it is our honor to announce that he is in top shape and ready for the big day. With decent weather expected for Christmas Eve, the flight should be a bit smoother than challenges he’s had in the past.”

NORAD will begin tracking Santa and his sleigh just after midnight on Christmas Eve.

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.