Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – Kairo Bennett holds up a sign trying to get people to buy a burger, hot dog or other food today. The Masonic Lodge was serving up the grilled and fried goodies in the parking lot at Save-A-Lot as a fundraiser towards a new concession stand at Bullard Park.

The Albion Youth Sports Athletic Program (AYSAP) is pushing the project and wants a two-story building with concessions and storage in the first floor and a second-floor for a press box.

Geno Allport, AYSAP president, said the building is likely $20,000 to $30,000. The concessions stand would be available to be used by other organizations doing events at Bullard, he said.

“We want everyone to enjoy it – not just football,” Allport said.

The building would be positioned close to the 50-yard line of the football field.

The Masonic Lodge served up food from the grill. From left include Ed Wolfe, John Hollenbeck and Jeff Holler in back.

The next fundraiser for the concessions stand will be a beef on weck dinner on Saturday, May 31, from 2 to 8 p.m. at Albion Elks Lodge. There are 300 ticket available at $15 each. There will also be a basket raffle and 50/50 drawings.

Many businesses and service organizations are donating and assisting with the event.

These kids were out drumming up support for today’s fundraiser. From left include Oliver Dillard, Zurie Dillard, Gavin Jackson, Gunner Jackson and Kairo Bennett.

Press Release, State Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt

LOCKPORT – On Tuesday, Senate Bill S.2099, which would have permitted firearms suppressors for rifles, was voted down in the senate environmental conservation committee.

The legal use of suppressors for hunting is permitted in 38 other states, with a total of 42 states allowing the legal sale and possession of suppressors. The ATF has strict guidelines in place for who can legally own a suppressor – the process involves paying an additional tax on purchase, filling out multiple forms, and passing an ATF background check.

“One of the reasons I ran for Senate was to give hunters and sportsmen in my district a voice in Albany,” Ortt said. “But in a legislature dominated by New York City extremists, who consistently show contempt for law-abiding gun owners and a complete ignorance of firearms and the tools that make them safer to use, defending our Second Amendment rights gets harder every year. I will keep fighting to pass this bill and protect the constitutional rights of gun owners across New York.”

Often misportrayed by Hollywood, firearms suppressors do not completely silence a weapon. They do cut down the noise substantially, but do nothing to add to the danger or lethality of firearms.

Suppressors simply make it easier on the ears for hunters and sportsmen who choose to utilize this tool. An individual who is hunting is often exposed to the loud firing of their weapon, risking hearing loss. Senate bill S.2099 sought to easily remedy that situation.

“It is disheartening to hear that the bill was defeated. There are many misconceptions around suppressors from cool Hollywood action movies that skew the perception of actual functionality,” said Joe Olscamp, CEO of Escarpment Arms. “I hope that someday we can have an open discussion on the benefits surrounding their use – and I thank Senator Ortt for his continued support in working to legalize suppressors here in New York.”

Senator Ortt intends to re-introduce this bill in the next legislative session.

Photos by Ginny Kropf: (Left) Kelly Anstey, Associate director of Day Services at ARC GLOW’s nutrition program, explains the role her agency plays in Meals on Wheels. (Right) Melissa Blanar, director of the Orleans County Office for the Aging, greets senior volunteer Ann McElwee of Medina and Bea Young, left, who nominated McElwee for volunteer recognition. Announcement was made at the OFA’s annual Spring Jubilee at the Orleans County 4-H Fairgrounds that McElwee had been chosen to represent Orleans County in Albany where an Outstanding Older Adult will be chosen for New York state.

KNOWLESVILLE – Every year the Orleans County Office for the Aging honors its volunteers at a Spring Jubilee at the Orleans County Fairgrounds. The event this year took place Friday in the Trolley Building at the 4-H Fairgrounds, where a full house of seniors enjoyed lunch, entertainment by The Uptown Groove, announcement of Senior-of-the-Year winners and drawings for prizes.

Orleans County OFA director Melissa Blanar told guests May is Older Americans Month and is a great opportunity to show appreciation for their seniors. This year also marks the 50th anniversary of the Orleans County OFA, she said.

Assistant director Megan Begins introduced the OFA staff and Advisory Council members.

Kelly Anstey, associate director of Day Services for the ARC GLOW nutrition program said it was a privilege to be there. She explained the ARC works with Meals on Wheels with Vicky Halvholm to provide nutritious meals to seniors at home, in addition to running nutrition sites in Albion and Kendall.

County Legislator John Fitzak reads a proclamation in tribute to the Orleans County OFA’s 50 years in existence, while director Melissa Blanar looks on.

Assemblyman Steve Hawley declared how happy he was to be there with all the older Americans, as he is now one of them. He shared highlights of the recently passed state budget, before presenting a citation to Ann McElwee as the volunteer who will represent Orleans County in Albany where an Outstanding Older Adult will be chosen from the entire state.

Hawley announced his annual Patriots’ Trip to Washington, D.C. is scheduled for Sept. 18 to 21, with the possibility of visiting the White House for the first time.

Blanar said she learned from Hawley that Orleans County’s aging services will be receiving some extra funding.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Orleans County OFA, and in honor of that, County Legislator John Fitzak read a proclamation paying tribute to 50 years of growth and support to seniors.

Assemblyman Steve Hawley presents volunteer Ann McElwee a citation for being chosen as Volunteer of the Year to represent Orleans County in Albany, where an Outstanding Older Adult of the Year will be chosen. OFA director Melissa Blanar is in the middle.

Highlight of the day was announcement of the selection of two outstanding volunteers – Ann McElwee, who was chosen by the Advisory Council to represent Orleans County in Albany for selection of the state’s Outstanding Older Adult of the Year; and Kathy Case, chosen as the Orleans County OFA Volunteer of the Year.

McElwee grew up in Medina, moving to Pennsylvania for college. After college she moved to Oklahoma to serve in Volunteers in Service to America for two years. She returned to Medina, where she has lived ever since.

McElwee worked for seven years at Head Start helping children and families in need. She retired from BOCES as a special education teacher with the Seek and Serve the Handicap program after 30 years of service.

She enjoys volunteering, spending time with friends and traveling.

Over the years, McElwee has volunteered for Hospice of Orleans, OCALS (Adult Learning Services), Lions Club, Medina’s food pantry, Professional Counseling Group working with families, Parents Anonymous, Rape Crisis and Job Corps. She also volunteers her time translating books into brail for the blind and visits friends and family who do not get out and about often.

Seeing her volunteer work as a way to stay active and involved, McElwee says volunteering is “the right thing to do,” an ethic she was taught growing up. She is now living what she learned from her parents, she said.

“Having received so much in my life, it is important to give back,” she said.

“I am very honored and full of pride to be nominated for this,” McElwee said. “I am only doing the things I like to do.”

Bruce Schmidt is in the Lions Club with McElwee, and said she does a lot for them. He also shared how she goes to local farms to help farmworkers. She even takes some on trips to interesting places in the area.

“Her ESL students are so appreciative of her,” Schmidt said.

McElwee, who is 75, said she gets as much as she gives – and sometimes more.

The local OFA Aging Volunteer of the Year is Kathy Case, who was unable to attend Friday’s luncheon. Case volunteers twice a month for the Caregiver Connections Respite program, which provides four hours of respite for caregivers who have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia. It takes a special volunteer to help with this program, as it is a demanding role to keep the clients occupied, Blanar said.

Case also volunteers her time monthly to help prepare the Friendly Carrier newsletter which goes to more than 3,300 people.

“We appreciate the time Kathy dedicates to our programs,” Blanar said.

The theme nationwide for Older American’s Month 2025 is “Flip the Script on Aging,” focusing on transforming how society perceives, talks about and approaches aging. Individuals and communities are encouraged to challenge stereotypes and dispel misconceptions. The observance is led by the Administration for Community Living. The public is invited to join them in honoring older adults’ contributions, exploring the many opportunities for staying active and engaged as they age and highlighting the opportunities for purpose, exploration and connection which come with aging.

The Orleans County OFA invites residents to visit them on Facebook or online at www.orleanscountyny.gov/officefortheaging; and to contribute by volunteering their time to the local OFA office or other community agency; and/or make monetary donations to help support the office and programs.

Friday’s celebration was funded by the New York State Office for the Aging, Administration of Community Living and Orleans County legislature.  The OFA also acknowledges Cornell Cooperative Extension for use of the building, ARC GLOW and local businesses who donated prizes for giveaways.

Megan Bevins, assistant director of the Orleans County OFA, introduces entertainers The Uptown Groove at Friday’s annual Spring Jubilee to recognize seniors.

Provided photo: Assemblyman Steve Hawley on Friday had a ribbon cutting for a new satellite office for State Assembly District 139. Pictured from left include Genesee County Legislator Gregg Torrey from State Senator George Borrello’s office, Jacqueline Tarricone from Hawley’s office, Steve Hawley, Jayleen Carney from Hawley’s office and Genesee Chamber President Brian Cousins.

BATAVIA – Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) has a new satellite office in Batavia.

Hawley has served as assemblyman for District 139 since 2006. During his tenure the district office has always been in Albion at 121 North Main St., the Albion Visitor’s Center. His predecessor, Charlie Nesbitt, also had the office at this Albion location.

Hawley will have staff in Genesee County office at the Cornell Cooperative Extension, 420 East Main St. It will have regular hours from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesdays and will serve as a secondary location for constituents who need assistance. The office could be open by appointment at other times as well.

Hawley said the satellite office doesn’t come at an added cost. He wanted to make it easier for Genesee County constituents to have in-person access to him and his staff.

Provided photos: Orleans County Historian Catherine Cooper colors the first Flat Orly as part of a new project to help celebrate Orleans County’s 200th anniversary this year. Orly is the county’s bicentennial mascot. Lee-Whedon Memorial Library in Medina displays a Flat Orly. The local libraries will have Flat Orly sheets available for the public. The design also can be downloaded from the Orleans County Tourism website.

MEDINA – Orly the Ox has been busy highlighting local historical sites and other popular places in Orleans County this year.

Now the public can join the fun by coloring a picture of Orly and taking him to their favorite place sin Orleans County and beyond.

This life-size cutout of Orly the Ox also is on display at the Lee-Whedon Memorial Library. Other cutouts of Orly will be available in the county, especially at upcoming concerts and some other events.

Orly’s adventures have been chronicled on the Orleans County Tourism’s social media pages. Orly also has his own TikTok. Today he was shown at the original Erie Canal loop in Holley to help highlight opening day of a new season for the Erie Canal, which is also celebrating its 200^th anniversary in 2025.

The Orleans County Bicentennial Committee and the County Tourism Department teamed to create a “Flat Orly” like the Flat Stanley projects that are popular for elementary kids around the world. Kids decorate a “Flat Stanley” and take him on trips or send to friends and family to take on adventures.

“Flat Orly offers a creative way for people of all ages to take part in the bicentennial celebration and express their community pride,” the County Tourism Department declared in announcing Flat Orly today. “Participants are encouraged to bring Flat Orly along on local outings or even on trips beyond the county.”

Catherine Cooper, Orleans County historian and chairwoman of the Bicentennial Committee, was the first to color a Flat Orly.

“It’s an activity that is open to people of all ages,” Cooper said. “It can release your inner child. Everybody loves to color. It will be fascinating to see where Orly travels.”

Flat Orly cutouts and instruction sheets are available at the four public libraries in Orleans County: Lee-Whedon, Hoag Library in Albion, Community Free Library in Holley and Yates Community Library in Lyndonville.

A printable PDF also is available by clicking here.

People are encouraged to post their Flat Orly at their favorite places in Orleans County and beyond the county borders.

“Whether it’s a local landmark, a park or a family trip, Orly is ready to explore,” states the instruction sheet for Flat Orly.

People are encouraged to take a photo of themselves with Flat Orly or just Orly at the locations, and then post on social media, tagging Orleans County Tourism and using the hashtags: #OrlytheOx and #Orly’sAdventures.

The Flat Orly campaign will run through the remainder of the bicentennial year in 2025. Call the county tourism office at (585) 589-3100 or visit OrleansNY200.com for more information.

BATAVIA – Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) will host a ribbon cutting today at 3 p.m. for his new satellite office in Batavia.

The office will be Genesee County Cornell Cooperative Extension, 420 East Main St. It will have regular hours from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesdays and will serve as a secondary location for constituents who need assistance.

Hawley said he is proud to open this new office and looks forward to meeting with residents and hearing about the issues that mean the most to them.

His main office is in Albion at 121 North Main St #100. That has been the location for the district office since Hawley was elected on Feb. 28, 2006.

Press Release, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Office

Kathy Hochul

New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Seneca Nation President J. Conrad Seneca announced today plans for Governor Hochul to visit Seneca Nation Territory to apologize on behalf of New York State’s role in the Thomas Indian School atrocities.

The Seneca Nation is set to welcome Governor Hochul to its Cattaraugus Territory on Tuesday, May 20, when Governor Hochul will issue a long-awaited official apology to the Seneca people, as well as all former students and their descendants from various Indigenous Nations, for the State of New York’s role in the operation of the Thomas Indian School. Governor Hochul’s visit is believed to be the first time a sitting Governor has officially visited Seneca Nation Territory.

“No words or actions will ever be able to undo the pain and suffering of the Seneca people and other Indigenous peoples across the State, but by visiting the Seneca Nation and the site of the Thomas Indian School we will mark a new day in our relations,” Governor Hochul said. “As we prepare to officially recognize the horrifying shortcomings of our past, I thank President Seneca for his advocacy on behalf of the Seneca people and his invitation to the Cattaraugus Territory, and I look forward to further strengthening the relationship between the Seneca people and the State of New York.”

Seneca Nation President J.C. Seneca said, “The severity of the wounds inflicted on our children warrants the historical significance of our Nation welcoming Governor Hochul to the Cattaraugus Territory. The atrocities that our children suffered at the Thomas Indian School have remained hidden in the shadows for far too long. At long last, our people will hear, directly from the Governor, the words we have waited lifetimes for the State of New York to say — ‘We’re sorry.’”

Originally established by Presbyterian missionaries on the Cattaraugus Territory in 1855, Thomas Indian School was owned and operated by the State of New York from 1875 until it closed in 1957. Thomas Indian School, and other residential boarding schools across the United States and Canada, operated under the government’s policy of forced assimilation of Native children.

Thousands of children from various Indigenous Nations were separated from their families and forced to attend the school. They were stripped of the traditional language and culture, and suffered abuse, violence, hatred, and sometimes death, at the hands of school officials. Thousands of children are known to have died at the residential boarding schools. It is believed that the deaths of hundreds — if not thousands — more were never documented.

The devastating impacts the boarding schools had on Native American families and communities, including the decimation of family structures and traditional language, are still keenly felt today.

“I know the pain and the trauma because I have seen it and felt it in my own family, just as countless families have borne that pain and carried it every day for generations,” said Seneca Nation President J.C. Seneca, whose father attended Thomas Indian School, and whose grandmother was removed from her family at age 11 and forced to attend Carlisle Indian Industrial School in Pennsylvania. “The Governor’s visit will be an important moment on our road to healing. In coming to our territory and apologizing to our people, the Governor can give voice to the children whose youth and innocence were stolen from them.”

Governor Hochul’s planned visit will fulfill a pledge she made to President Seneca during a visit Nation leaders made to Albany earlier this year. It is also another example of Governor Hochul’s commitment to supporting and strengthening relationships with Indigenous peoples across the state. As part of this commitment, Governor Hochul has:

• Convened leaders from the Indigenous Nations across New York State for a historic summit at the New York State Capitol in Albany.
• Appointed Elizabeth Rule as the State’s First Deputy Secretary for Indigenous Nations.
• Proposed to strengthen the stability of Indigenous Families by directing Deputy Secretary Rule to advance, in consultation with Nation leadership and stakeholders, strategies to strengthen the objectives of the Indian Child Welfare Act, underscoring New York’s commitment to redressing injustices inflicted upon Indigenous communities.
• Ensured dental care access for Indigenous Nations including $2.5 million in funding for Indigenous Nations dental health care, with the aim of addressing gaps in access.
• Responded to offensive representations by commencing a comprehensive review of artistic representation of Indigenous peoples in the Capitol, with invited participation from representatives from each of the nine Indigenous Nations to ensure that all New Yorkers are welcomed in the State Capitol.

The announced visit and apology comes as the New York State Senate unanimously approved a resolution earlier this week acknowledging the State’s role in the operation of Thomas Indian School and the horrors that occurred there. President Seneca and other Nation officials and citizens were present when the resolution was read on the Senate floor and approved.

This visit will be open to invited guests of the Seneca Nation.

RIDGEWAY – Kimberly Stawicki sent in this photo of a spectacular sunrise over Glenwood Lake in Ridgeway this morning after a thunderstorm.

Today is forecast for a high of 77, followed by a high of 71 on Saturday.

The highs then include 59 on Sunday and Monday, 58 on Tuesday, and 60 on Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service in Buffalo.

For 17^th time in last 19 years, school budget holds the line on taxes

ALBION – The Albion school district budget holds the line on the tax levy, with no increase for the 17^th time in the past 19 years.

Albion district residents will  vote on the budget on Tuesday from noon to 8 p.m. at Hoag Library, 134 South Main St.

Overall spending in the proposed $44,750,485 budget is up 5.7 percent or by $2,429,819 – from $42,320,666 in 2024-25.

Most of that increase will be offset by a hike in state aid. Albion is budgeting for $1,942,442 more in state aid or an increase of 5.9 percent – from $32,774,455 to $34,716,897. State aid accounts for 77.6 percent of the Albion budget.

Property taxes or the tax levy remain at $8,449,039. Other increases in revenue include more appropriated fund balance – from $455,605 to $683,996 – and more earnings from interest, from $591,111 to $793,153.

“This budget is more than just numbers – it reflects our priorities and commitment to delivering a high-quality education for every student which includes but is not limited to: maintaining small class sizes, enhancing student support services, upgrading technology, and ensuring our facilities are safe and functional,” Wayne Wadhams, the Board of Education president, said in a budget message on the district website.

“Maintaining our precedent of conservative financial planning, we are once again proposing a tax levy with a zero percent increase. While we, like so many, continue to face challenges regarding rising operational costs and potential changes to federal funding, we continue to believe that the District can be fiscally responsible while remaining firmly committed to the future of our students and community.”

The vote on Tuesday also includes the following propositions:

• Authorization to spend $1 million for new buses

• Authorization to collect $657,560 for Hoag Library (down from $664,510)

• Establish a capital improvements reserve fund

• Establish a technology reserve fund not to exceed $3 million

• Approval of multi-year transportation contract with Student Transportation of America

There are also three candidates on the ballot for three positions on the Board of Education. Two incumbents are seeking re-election. Chris Kinter, the Albion code enforcement officer, is seeking another term along with John Kast, a farmer who is also on the board for Farm Bureau and the Orleans County Soil & Water Conservation District.

Lauren Stirk, a registered nurse, also is seeking a position on the board.

The top two vote-getters will get five-year terms with the third place candidate getting a two-year term.

Candidate statements in the school budget newsletter include:

Chris Kinter: “Over the last five years it has been a pleasure to serve our community and gain insight into how our school system operates. I’m dedicated to open communication and ensuring that parents feel heard and valued.

“I have made it a priority to be available addressing any concerns and working collaboratively to enhance our educational environment. Together we can build a strong foundation for our students and ensure their success.”

Lauren Stirk: “As a proud alumna, I now have children attending Albion schools. Professionally, I am a Registered Nurse, and I bring both personal and professional dedication to this role.

“I have a vested interest in the safety, quality of education, and opportunities available to our students. I am passionate about supporting the continued growth and excellence of our district, and I’m committed to ensuring that every student has access to a high-quality education and the support they need to succeed.”

John Kast: “It has been an honor to serve the ACS community over the past five years through the challenges of the COVID pandemic, working collaboratively to hire our new superintendent, and assisting the completion of a major capital project that improved our facilities for years to come.

“My experience serving on other community boards, such as Farm Bureau and Orleans County Soil and Water Conservation District, as well as being a farm owner has helped me on the School Board understand how to keep our school and community strong.”

Photo and article courtesy of Albion Central School

ALBION – Thirty-one members of Albion’s Class of 2025 were recognized for their academic honors on May 7 during the 16th Annual Honors Convocation dinner and ceremony.

Hosted in the newly renovated high school gym, graduating seniors with a cumulative weighted grade point average of 90% or higher were recognized for their achievement in front of their families, administrators and board of education members.

2025 academic honors students include Zachary Abel, Mallory Ashbery, Zackary Baron, Nicholas Baxter, Oliver Beach, Leo Bolton, Sawyer Brigham, Olivia Brooks, Cassandra Brown, Dillion DiGiulio, Kelli Dingle, Samantha Dobo, Nolan Franzese, Nathan Garrett, Tracy Garrett, Alexis Hand, Rori Higgins, Matthew Kania, Mallory Kozody, Seth Krenning, Madison LeBaron, Kenadie Patten, Emily Richardson, David Rosario-Soto, MacKenzie Snook, Natalie Soule, Roselan Steffen, Tye Talbot, Ella Trupo, Zachary Yankevich and Keira Zambito.

The honorees were called to the stage individually to receive their certificate and then were adorned with their honors cords from their parents/guardians.

Mr. Kyle Thaine, ’16, was the guest speaker for the evening. Thaine currently teaches Global History II, US History and is the Senior Class Advisor in the Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Central School District. Thaine’s words of wisdom to the Albion Class of 2025: “Read something every day. It can be a book, an article from the news, or a writeup on last night’s game. Anything. Just find time every day to read something that someone else has written.”

The Class of 2025 is set to graduate on Friday, June 27.

Homesteads is first working farm and housing community in state for people with disabilities

Press Release, State Sen Robert Ortt

Provided photo: Jennyrae Brongo was recognized in Albany on Tuesday as a “Woman of Distinction.” She was picked by State Sen. Rob Ortt for the 62nd Senate District.

ALBANY – On Tuesday night, the New York State inducted Senator Rob Ortt nominee, Jennyrae Brongo, into its 2025 “Woman of Distinction” class.

Brongo is the co-founder of Homesteads for Hope. Each year, one outstanding woman from each Senate District is honored for their outstanding contributions to their communities, and this year, Brongo was Senator Ortt’s nominee from the 62nd Senate District.

“It is a privilege to nominate and induct such a dedicated, hardworking, and selfless woman to this esteemed program,” said Senator Ortt. “Jennyrae embodies the spirit of service, having created a nurturing and inclusive community where individuals with disabilities and other disadvantages thrive by being outside and working in an agricultural setting. Her work has undoubtedly changed the lives of countless individuals and families, and I can’t thank her enough for her dedication to our community.”

A resident of Ogden, Brongo has made it her mission to offer a place for individuals and families with and without disabilities to learn, work, live and grow in nature’s classroom. Their beautiful 55-acre farm is located 10 minutes west of Downtown Rochester directly on the wide waters of the historic Erie Canal.

Their classroom is in the great outdoors, which provides a peaceful and therapeutic environment for anyone who sets foot on it no matter their ability level. In the past several years, they have built a series of programs, classes, and social events that bring people together and provide a sense of community where everyone is welcome.

During a 2018 TedX presentation, Brongo said: “I don’t know where I would be without Autism. It’s like someone gave me a mission in life to be a voice for those who didn’t have one. My brother Chucky is a non-verbal hero. His story is paving the way.”

Homesteads for Hope founders Luann and Jennyrae Brongo felt hopeless trying to find services for Charles “Chucky” Brongo after he graduated from the school system at age 21. Despite unwavering advocacy and a relentless search for options, the family was not able to secure the assistance and support they needed. They spent endless days and nights praying for a miracle.

One day, Jenny & Chucky went to “Uncle Bobs” farm down the street, adventuring around the canalside farm, Jennyrae did a quick search of “Farms for Autism” and realized there were hundreds of Care Farms & Intentional Communities across the country. That evening, Luann and Jennyrae started dreaming of a better future for their family. Luann worked with Chucky on the farm and Jenny did the business planning to create the first working farm and housing community for people with disabilities in New York State.

With a bachelor’s degree in construction management engineering from Alfred State College, and 15 years of entrepreneurship, she’s turned vision into reality with the development of Western New York’s first inclusive “Learn, Work & Live” intentional community. In 2021 she was named a “Woman of Excellence” honoree by the Rochester Business Journal. Her true joy lies in constructing dreams for a better future for all families.

By Jason Kuder, CIO, Oak Orchard Health

Easier Care with the Updated Patient Portal and Healow App

Managing your healthcare has never been easier thanks to Oak Orchard Health’s improved patient portal and the convenient Healow app. Whether you are refilling a prescription, checking test results, or messaging your provider, the portal offers everything you need at your fingertips.

What is the Patient Portal and Healow?

The Patient Portal (available in English and Spanish) is a secure online tool that helps you stay on top of your health. Healow is the mobile version of this portal, giving you access right from your smartphone or tablet.

Once you download and sign into the Healow app, you can access all the same health information as the Patient Portal, anywhere you take your mobile device. This means no more carrying around papers or trying to remember past visits. From lab results to visit summaries, it’s all in one easy-to-use place.

What Can You Do with the Patient Portal?

One of the most popular features is prescription refill requests. Instead of calling the health center, you can request refills anytime—at night or on weekends. Simply log in and send your request. It’s that easy. Please allow three business days for your prescription refill request to be processed.

Another favorite feature is secure messaging with your provider. If you have a non-urgent question, you can send a message directly through the portal. You don’t need to call us; getting answers is convenient and quick (allow up to 3 business days for a response).

You can also schedule appointments online. The Healow app and Patient Portal allow self-scheduling, so you can choose the best appointment time for your busy life. If your child is sick at night or you remember you need a physical, you can book right from your phone or computer without needing to call during office hours or your work hours!

Why Use Healow, the mobile app?

Healow is the online patient portal, making managing your care easier. You can view lab results, see visit summaries, and even access documents like sports physical forms. It’s like having your health records in your pocket. Whether at home, at work, or in line at the store, your health information is always with you.

Self-Check In: At the Office and Online

Another way we’re making visits easier is with self-check-in. You may have seen the kiosks in our health centers that allow you to do a simple check-in. What’s new is that we are adding more features to our in-office kiosks and launching a self-check-in feature online, which you can do on your smartphone before you arrive. This will allow us to get your information accurately and quickly, and allow patients to fill out forms and have them ready before their appointments.

Self-check-in saves time. You can answer these questions from anywhere instead of filling out paperwork at the health center, making your visit smoother and less stressful. It also helps the front desk team speed up the process and reduce wait times.

Kiosks are still available for those who prefer to check in at the office or do not have a smartphone. Both options help us make sure your information is accurate and up to date.

The Future of Easy Healthcare

With the patient portal, Healow app, and self-check-in options, managing your health has never been simpler. We are making it easier for you to contact a doctor and go to the front of the line when you need an appointment or a refill, with just a click of a button. Our goal is to make your experience stress-free, giving you more control and flexibility. We’re excited about these improvements and hope you take advantage of them at your next visit.