Photos by Ginny Kropf: Keynote speaker at For Women Only, Darlene Rich, is surrounded by old friends and former co-workers at Medina Memorial Hospital. With her, clockwise from left, are Rebecca Mannella, who headed cardiac rehab when Rich worked there; Lori Condo, assistant controller; and Cindy Perry, retired head of Community Partners, whose job included planning the For Women Only event.

LYNDONVILLE – For Women Only, the annual event sponsored by Orleans Community Health which raises funds for cancer services, took place Thursday night at White Birch Golf Course.

First on the program was recognition of cancer survivors by Lori Condo, assistant controller at Orleans Community Health and chair of For Women Only. She asked those who had been survivors of cancer to stand up as she called out the number of years – one year, five years, 10 years, 20 years and more than 20 years. Each woman standing received a carnation.

Next, was keynote speaker Darlene Rich, a cancer survivor of 18 years and clerk for the Town of Shelby, now in her 17th year. She not only shared her battle with breast cancer, but the sorrow of having her son diagnosed with brain cancer and the age of 3 and dying at age 23.

Rich has been a regular attendee of For Women Only over the years, and called it “the nicest event.”

She described how she had her mammograms regularly and wasn’t worried when it came time to schedule one in 2006. She was working in heart rehab at Medina Memorial Hospital under Rebecca Mannella when she learned her breast surgeon saw something on her X-ray and wanted a biopsy. She underwent a lumpectomy, and then was given six weeks of radiation and the choice of chemotherapy every three weeks for six treatments or a powerful dose for five days.

“I wanted to get it over with and move on, so I chose the five-day treatment,” Rich said. “That mammogram saved my life.”

On Oct. 20. 2006, she returned to work and was greeted by a mini For Women Only arranged by Mannella and Cindy Perry. Perry was head of Community Partners at the time and in charge of organizing the annual For Women Only for the community.

“They were here, along with my family, to support me all the way,” Rich said.

Her advice to the women in the room was to “Stay positive, stay focused and fight. And remember to get your mammogram.”

Condo announced the evening had grossed $6,300 to provide essential cancer services.

(Left) Cindy Perry, who worked at Community Partners for many years and planned the first For Women Only 25 years ago at the former Village Inn, was introduced and presented flowers by Lori Condo, on behalf of the hospital. (Right) Lori Condo, assistant controller at Orleans Community Health and chair of For Women Only, introduces keynote speaker Darlene Rich to guests Thursday night.

Representatives from several Orleans County agencies were on hand with tables of information and free gifts to guests.

From the Orleans County Health Department, Nola Goodrich and Laiken Ricker, a New York State Public Health Fellow with Orleans and Genesee Health departments, handed out information on rabies, lead and healthy homes.

At the Orleans County Mental Health table, director Danielle Figura and staff member Linda Karp made sure everyone knew about the suicide and crisis hotline, 988.

Denise Johnston-Burris, director of nursing at Hospice, provided information on why they temporarily closed the Martin-Linsin Residence.

“Referrals just stopped coming in,” she said.

She added they are doing everything possible to turn the situation around. She said many people have misinformation about Hospice, including the length a resident may stay there. She said they have had one individual who was there for 2 1/2 years.

A moment of recognition was given to Cindy Perry for her years at Community Partners and planning the annual For Women Only. She recalls the first event at the Village Inn at Childs, when about 30 to 40 women attended. The event has since grown steadily, usually attracting more than 100, and often a sellout.

Kim Gray, Medina Memorial Hospital’s chief nursing officer and director of surgical services, welcomes guests to the annual For Women Only.

Kim Gray, the hospital’s chief nursing officer and director of surgical services, has worked at the hospital more than 20 years.

“Our community hospital is an invaluable asset that provides accessible, personalized, cost-effective and community-focused healthcare,” Gray said. “We offer a wide range of services that are essential for the vitality of our community.”

Some of those services are a 24/7 Emergency Department, two dialysis centers (one in Medina and one in Batavia),  a podiatry clinic, a wound care center dedicated to healing chronic wounds, a cardiology clinic, a cardiac services department which offers a full array of diagnostic testing and treatment options for patients with cardiac conditions and heart disease and a radiology department which plays a crucial role in early cancer screening by using techniques to detect abnormalities that could indicate cancer at an early stage.

These include general X-rays, ultrasound, CT-scans, nuclear medicine, 3-D mammography, bone density testing and MRIs. Full-service laboratories with blood drawing stations are located at the Medina hospital, at the Albion Healthcare Center and the Middleport site.

A new pediatric nurse practitioner, Leah Brenner, has recently joined the family medicine team at the Albion Healthcare Center.

The hospital’s surgery clinic is staffed by the team of doctors Misiti, Schratz, Hodge and Huff, offering comprehensive surgical services in several specialized areas.

During the past year, the hospital began offering the primary doctors the opportunity to order pulmonary function testing by the Respiratory Department, determining how well the lungs are working.

Inpatient services included the Medical/Surgical Department and Transitional Care Unit.

A highlight being announced today is that in October and November the hospital will be offering not only free 3-D mammogram screening, but if a patient needs to receive diagnostic testing through an ultrasound, the hospital will cover the co-pay.

“This is largely thanks to our past For Women Only funding,” Gray said.

The evening concluded with drawing of winners for the basket raffle and 50/50 drawing.

Photos by Ginny Kropf: Matt Hill, brother-in-law of Kwandrans Tae-Kwan-Do owner, Bob Kwandrans Jr., teaches a class in their new space at the YMCA in Medina.

MEDINA – A martial arts studio which began in 1988 on East Center Street has made a move to new quarters.

Kwandrans Tae-Kwon-Do started classes at space in the YMCA in September, said founder Bob Kwandrans Jr.

“We reached out to the YMCA, where Jesse (Cudzilo – the Y director) offered us the opportunity to work together and continue to offer a proven service to the community.”

Black Belts who teach classes at Kwandrans’ Tae-Kwon-Do are, from left, Matt Hill, Aidyn Jackson, Debby Farfaglia (who runs the school), Phoebe Kirby and Ross Tetrault.

Bob Kwandrans Jr. was 11 years old when he started karate training with Dick Borrell of Batavia. When he was a senior in high school, he started teaching Tae-Kwon-Do, and by 1988, he had opened Kwandrans Tae-Kwon-Do on East Center Street.

The family’s interest in martial arts stems from Bob Sr.’s training as a police officer in Washington, D.C. After moving back to Western New York, he and his sister started teaching Tai-Kwan-Do in Batavia.

Since 2006, he and his wife Johanna have lived near Fort Wayne, Ind., where he opened another Tae-Kwon-Do studio, and they both teach, along with their son and daughter.

A class of Tae-Kwon-Do students at Kwandrans’ Tae-Kwon-Do studio go through their routine at their new location at the YMCA. Standing at left rear is teacher Matt Hill, brother-in-law of the studio’s founder Bob Kwandrans Jr.

When he opened his first school in Medina, there was a handful of students, Bob said. Today that number has grown to 50 to 60.

His first location was a small room on East Center Street, and in 1992 Bob was able to secure a larger space at 115 East Center St.

Several years prior, Debby Farfaglia of Lockport had brought her oldest son to a class. Two years later, her youngest began lessons. Like so many students, the parents get interested because of their children, and Farfaglia began lessons herself, eventually getting her Black Belt. Today she runs the school in Medina.

What attracted her to Tae-Kwon-Do is the discipline, self-defense, balance and coordination it develops in an individual.

“I like to be busy,” she said. “I don’t like to sit around. Getting involved in Tae-Dwon-Do was one of the best moves I could make.”

Kwandrans said he has had the best people in the world on his staff, and called Farfaglia his “anchor.”

“I think the world of her and her family,” he said.

Farfaglia said they love their new space at the YMCA, where classes begin with Little Dragons. Farfaglia started the classes for children 4 to 6, and now Jess Sutch is their leader, who teaches them the basics at their level, adding fun and games.

Dylan Wood and Abigail Sutch, both 10, go to school together and are also in sports together.

“Abby didn’t want to come to Tae-Kwon-Do by herself, so she talked Dylan into it,” Jess said.

Besides teaching, Jess is also working on her double Black Stripe. The next step will be her Black Belt.

Mary Ann Wood’s children, Frankie and Dylan both take Tae-Kwon-Do and when her daughter asked her to join them, she did.

“I started because the kids wanted me to, and now I’m really into it,” she said. “I hope to get my Black Belt.”

Matt Hill, left, poses with Black Belts and other Tae-Kwon-Do instructors during classes at the YMCA. Front row, from left, are Matt Hill, Brayden Meakin, Judd Degenhardt, Sam Cammarata and Rosemary Kirby Second row, from left, are Collin Fritton, Patrick Grollmes, McKenna Fritton, Graham Kirby, Blade Moskaluk, Michael Manley and Easton Hornquist. Third row, from left, are Brody Brendlinger, Justin Kirby, Phoebe Kirby, Ross Tetrault, Debby Farfaglia (who heads the Medina facility), and Aidyn Jackson.

There are 12 levels to reach a Black Belt, beginning with white, Farfaglia said. Each level requires learning a different pattern, and that takes at least 24 classes.

Megan Johnson’s son Sam, 8, is in an Advanced Tae-Kwon-Do class and he loves it.

“He had a ton of energy as a little kid,” Johnson said. “His dad is a Black Belt, so when Sam was 5 and expressed an interest in it, we signed him up. I’ve absolutely seen a difference in his behavior. It has given his confidence a big boost.”

She said the move to the YMCA was a great thing.

“This is a wonderful place here and it is a wonderful partnership,” Johnson said.

Kwandrans’ brother-in-law Matt Hill is also a Black Belt and has taught at the studio since 2000.

“I was a late bloomer,” Hill said. “I didn’t start training until I was 33 and I’m 57 now. I enjoy fitness, but most of all, I enjoy seeing others improve and get the most out of Tae-Kwon-Do.”

(Left) Debby Farfaglia and Aidyn Jackson are both Black Belts. In the background is Jess Sutch, who just started leading the Little Dragons class and is working toward her Black Belt. (Right) A student in the Little Dragon class lands on his feet during a jump on the mat, while helper Aidyn Jackson watches in the rear.

“It’s been a great move here,” Farfaglia said. “Jesse has been wonderful to us.”

Likewise, Cudzilo is happy to have more of the community utilizing the YMCA’s facility. The space used by Tae-Kwon-Do was a multi-purpose room that had been under-utilized, he said.

“They have been having their belt ceremonies here for years, so when they reached out to see if our relationship could grow from there, I was thrilled to foster that partnership,” Cudzilo said. “Respect, perseverance and personal development fit our mission, also.”

He said welcoming Kwandrans’ studio to the YMCA allows them to offer the people of all ages in Orleans County the opportunity to grow.

“We strive to offer rich and diverse programs to the community, and this is a way to do that,” he said.

Family of God Christian Center plans first service, dedication on Sunday

(Photo by Ginny Kropf at left) The former Fundamental Baptist Church in Middleport will reopen Sunday as Family of God Christian Center under the leadership of the Rev. Ashley and pastor Jose Casanova of Lyndonville. (Provided photo at right) The Rev. Ashley and Jose Casanova said they have found the perfect place to open their new church in Middleport, where their first service will be at 11 a.m. Sunday, followed by a dedication service at 4 p.m. and a dinner.

MIDDLEPORT – A Lyndonville couple with a passion for preaching are about to realize their lifelong dream.

On Sunday, the Rev. Ashley Casanova and her husband, pastor Jose Casanova, will open their first church in the former Fundamental Baptist Church at 56 Main St., Middleport.

The new church, called Family of God Christian Center, will have its first communion service at 11 a.m., followed by a dedication service at 4 p.m. Guest speaker will be pastor Deborah Rosa-Pabon from the United Methodist Church in Middleport.

When the Casanovas came to look at the church earlier this summer, Pastor Rosa-Pabon was there to greet them and welcomed them into the community.

The Casanovas have been looking for a space to start a church for some time. They have visited store fronts in several locations, but the Rev. Ashley said she just wasn’t getting the vibe. Finally, Jose said he did not want a storefront, and suggested they put the brakes on for a while.

“We are starting out with limited funds and we don’t have a congregation,” the Rev. Ashley said. “I felt defeated.”

Then she was sent some pictures of a church from a lady she met in Medina.

“The pictures were of a beautiful church,” the Rev. Ashley said. “Where is this church? Send me the address.”

Provided images: An older postcard shows the former Trinity Church in Middleport. (Right) Developer Rollin Hellner replicated the doors of the 1869 Fundamental Baptist Church and installed them in the restored building at 56 Main St.

The church was the former Fundamental Baptist Church in Middleport, built in 1869, which Medina developer Rollin Hellner and his company Hellner Development had purchased in June and restored. He mentored Job Corps students who helped with the project, said Alex Purnell, a realtor with Berkshire-Hathaway Zambito Realtors, who the Casanovas met when they purchased their home in Lyndonville.

The work included major restoration of the masonry and original steeple and replicating the original front entry doors, which Hellner built by hand from looking at old post cards of the church.

“I just wanted to see life put back in the church,” Hellner said.

When they looked at the church, Hellner showed them the communion plate and Bibles he had saved and the Casanovas were astounded.

“I asked him how old he was, because I couldn’t believe someone that young would have the compassion to save something so sacred,” the Rev. Ashley said.

The pastors knew they wanted this church, but also realized they didn’t have a lot of money. Hellner indicated he wanted $2,000 a month and that was more than the pastors could afford.

“Rollin asked us what we could afford and I told him $1,000,” the Rev. Ashley said. “He said he liked us and was willing to accept $1,000 a month. The fact he was so concerned is a blessing.”

The couple immediately began cleaning and planning for the opening of their first church.

“We are small in number, but mighty in power,” the Rev. Ashley said. “We want to do outreach, such as community dinners, and the first will be after the 4 p.m. dedication ceremony on Sunday. It has definitely been a journey.”

The topic of her first sermon at 11 a.m. Sunday will be “Restoration,” and the Casanovas invite everyone to attend.

“Just as Rollin restored the church, God can restore us,” the Rev. Ashley said.

ALBION – Albion Healthcare Center has announced that Leah Brenner, a certified pediatric nurse practitioner with more than 20 years’ experience, will be joining their team on Nov. 4.

“Leah’s extensive expertise in pediatric emergency medicine and general pediatric practice comes at a crucial time, as our community faces a significant shortage of pediatric care providers,” said Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communications and Outreach at Orleans Community Health.

Brenner earned her bachelor of science in nursing from Brockport State College and her master of science in nursing from the University of Rochester. Her background includes pivotal roles in both Rochester and Washington, D.C. area, making her a valuable asset to our team, Robinson added.

“We are thrilled to welcome Leah,” said Alana Palone, clinic administrator for Orleans Community Health. “Her arrival comes at a vital moment for our community, as we strive to meet the demand for pediatric services. Leah’s dedication and skills will make a real difference in the lives of children and families in Orleans County.”

Brenner is passionate about providing comprehensive, high-quality care that addresses the development, physical and mental health needs of children. Outside of work, she enjoys camping cooking and spending quality time with her husband, three stepdaughters and their pets.

“We are excited to have Leah join our team at Albion Healthcare Center,” said Marc Shurtz, CEO/CIO for Orleans Community Health. “We continue to try to increase access to excellent healthcare. Our community shouldn’t have to travel to neighboring counties for these services.”

Appointments can now be scheduled by contacting the Albion Healthcare Center at (585) 589-CARE.

For more information about pediatric care at the Albion Healthcare Center, click here.

Photos by Tom Rivers

HOLLEY – Holley first-graders visited Vendetti Farms this morning on Fancher Road, which has been an annual fall outing for students since 2008.

About 60 first-graders were at the farm, and were able to pick out a pumpkin to take home.

These first-graders meet “April,” a Nigerian Dwarf goat brought to the farm by Karen Gaylord, who works as an administrative assistant with the school district’s special education program.

Gaylord said the goat likes to climb, and enjoyed its perch on the stone wall.

Karen Gaylord holds a chicken that drew a crowd on kids. One of the kids exclaimed, “That’s so soft.”

Lynn Vendetti shows kids the sign at Vendetti Farms, and notes the different crops grown on about 2,500 acres. Vendettti Farms sells from a produce stand, and also through wholesale and processing markets.

The family is in its fourth generation of farming. Vendetti farms was started by Anthony Vendetti, who was followed by Albert, then Lynn’s husband Bob, and their sons, Bobby, Ryan and Andrew.

Lynn Vendetti is a retired Holley elementary teacher. She first brought a class of her fourth grade students to the farm, and it has expanded to the entire first grade. The outing ties into their curriculum of learning about the fall. She said it’s also a lot of fun for the students and the Vendetti family.

Ron Vendetti drives a tractor while the students get a hayride at the farm, including a close look at the combines and other big farm equipment.

Lynn Vendetti shows the students a pumpkin that was hit by hail by hail on Aug. 11, causing some scarring. Vendetti said the farm lost most of its pepper crop, while pumpkins and squash were damaged.

These kids play a pumpkin game, where pumpkins are bowled towards crates.

Lori Hinman, a teacher aide at Holley, cleans some mud off a pumpkin for one of the students.

Greyson Arthur, a first grader, stacks pumpkins up high in one of the pumpkin games.

Press Release, NYS Thruway Authority

LE ROY – The New York State Thruway Authority today announced the reopening of the newly renovated Ontario Service Area located on I-90 westbound between exit 46 (Rochester – Corning – I-390) and exit 47 (Rochester – LeRoy – I-490 – NY Route 19) in Genesee County.

The location is the 22nd new service area to open, and the third of four locations to undergo extensive renovations as part of the $450 million private investment to redevelop and modernize all 27 Thruway service areas.

As part of the project, all of the components inside the restaurant building were removed including the restaurants, restrooms and interior seating. The renovation includes a new floor plan, new restaurants, new restrooms, the addition of two new family assist restrooms, private nursing area, additional seating as well as customer access to electrical outlets and phone/laptop charging stations.

The opening of the Ontario Service Area signifies the completion of the modernization of service areas along the more than 200-mile stretch of I-90 from exit 29 (Canajoharie – Sharon Springs – NY Route 10) to exit 49 (Depew – Lockport – NY Route 78).

“Motorists traveling from Central New York to the Buffalo area can now enjoy the amenities and new restaurant options at every new service area along I-90,” Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare, Esq. said. “This redevelopment project is just one of several initiatives aimed at enhancing the travel experience for motorists, with a strong focus on modernization and safety.”

Additionally, the Ontario Service Area is one of five select service areas that includes an adult changing station to improve accessibility for all motorists. Adult changing stations provide those with special needs a safe and secure space for caregivers to provide assistance.

ALBION – The Village of Albion is working to submit applications that could bring millions of dollars in state funding to bolster the downtown and community.

Jay Grasso, owner of G & G Municipal Consulting and Grant Writing, said there could the $15 million in potential projects from private building owners and the village.

Jay Grasso, owner of G & G Municipal Consulting and Grant Writing, said Albion is a strong contender for the state programs bringing millions in funding to the downtown area. He spoke during a public meeting last week in the Village Hall.

Albion had $11 million in Restore NY projects for a grant application last year that was not approved. Grasso said those projects, plus new proposals, could be part of new applications for $10 million in funding through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative or $4.5 million through the NY Forward program.

Grasso met with property owners and village officials last week. Businesses, industry groups, cultural organizations, developers, non-profit organizations and property owners can submit a project for consideration.

Grasso said G & G will submit the application to the state for the two grants, which are both due by 4 p.m. on Oct. 18.

Potential projects could include new construction (residential, mixed use, hotel, etc.), renovation of existing buildings, facade improvements, renovation of new retail, office, co-working, commercial, industrial, recreational or cultural uses.

The state wants projects that will transform the downtown and support a vibrant and year-round economy.

“If you have a project or a building, dream big,” Grasso said.

Anchor projects that can be a catalyst for other development in the downtown area will be viewed favorable by the state, Grasso said.

He urged building owners and officials from the village and non-profits to reach out to G & G at contact@ggprocess.com to discuss potential projects, sharing a vision for the properties and cost estimates. He said he and his staff can discuss the projects by email, Zoom videoconferencing, a phone call or in person.

Nearby, Batavia has received the $10 million DRI and Medina was awarded the $4.5 million NY Forward grant last year.

Grasso said Albion is “ripe” to receive the funding through one of the programs.

Projects that stir economic activity, add upper-floor housing and show “skin in the game” with investment from the property owners will strengthen Albion’s overall application, Grasso said.

Some of the projects could also be smaller, with façade improvements, window restoration or fresh paint.

“There is no maximum or minimum for this program,” Grasso said.

This photo shows Main Street, north of the Bank Street intersection. Village officials would like to boost occupancy rates in the buildings, including the upper floors.

Press Release, Arc GLOW

BATAVIA — Arc GLOW will be holding its second annual meeting and awards banquet at 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 9 at Batavia Downs.

Rebecca Leclair, the President of Rebecca Leclair Communications, LLC and former anchor and reporter from WHEC-TV (Channel 10), will be the emcee. Individuals will also be providing entertainment. For a month, Arc GLOW nominated staff, individuals and community members for a variety of different awards.

The award winners are the following:

• Self-Advocate of the Year – Nathan Johnidas, Albion

Award goes to a person served by Arc GLOW who has grown and is meeting their personal outcomes. They also have positively influenced the lives of others.

• Supported Employment Person of the Year – Elizabeth Padilla, Walnut Street, Batavia

The award honors a person supported by Arc GLOW who has demonstrated a strong work ethic, dedication to their job, ability to learn new community employment skills and maintain successful employment.

• Pre-Vocational Person of the Year – Tammy Reimels, Hilltop

The honor goes to a person supported by Arc GLOW with a dedication to learning about the world of work including new job skills, striving to complete quality work and showing attention to the task of learning.

• Residential Person of the Year – Monica Mineo, Garfield IRA in Batavia

The award honors a person supported by Arc GLOW who resides in residential services, grew in their independence and learned life skills.

• Day Habilitation Person of the Year – James Gibbs, WOW Day Hab in Batavia

The recognition goes to a person supported by Arc GLOW who participates in day habilitation activities, strives to learn, and demonstrates effort and commitment to be included in their own communities.

• Community Services and Self Direction Person of the Year – Brittany Murphy, Genesee County

Honors a person served by Arc GLOW who shows outstanding participation and contribution to their community. Shows the initiative in trying new activities and gain leadership potential through community involvement.

• KidStart Employee of the Year – Maggie Putman

Goes to an employee who demonstrates exceptional support to children and families, and is committed to assist in all areas of their growth and education.

• Direct Support Professional Person of the Year (DSP) – Heather Taft, residential manager at Avon IRA in Avon

The award honors a DSP who provides a variety of activities to adults with developmental disabilities within a home setting, day programs or recreational activities in the community. Provides excellence in support in living skills, personalized goals, arts and crafts, sensory activities, and facilitates our individuals to take their active role in the community.

• Employee of the Year – Heidi Wyant, transportation manager

Recognizes an employee of Arc GLOW who is committed to the mission and vision. They demonstrate the values of diversity, respect, integrity, visionary, equality, empowerment and excellence.

• Friend of the Year – Hoffman Hanafin & Associates, LLC

Recognizes a community friend and supporter of Arc GLOW’s mission and vision.

• Business Partner of the Year – Aunt Cookie’s Sub Shop in Geneseo

Honors a partner who supports our mission and vision through excellent customer service or providing work opportunities for employment.

• Volunteers of the Year – Kevin and Dawn Fisher

The award goes to people committed to Arc GLOW, volunteering their time by serving the local community and supporting the Arc GLOWs mission and vision.

Reservations are open until Sept. 30. at ArcGLOW.org/event/awards-banquet-and-annual-meeting. For any questions, contact Tracey Jones at (585) 343-1123 ext. 1735 or TJones@ArcGLOW.org.

Press Release, Orleans County government

ALBION – The Orleans County Legislature, in conjunction with the county Youth Bureau, will be hosting its 10th annual “Family Game Night” on Thursday, Oct. 10, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Dubby’s Tailgate, located at 165 South Platt Avenue in Albion.  The event is free but residents are asked to register in advance as seating is limited.

The event will feature free pizza, board games, prize drawings and other activities and promotions. There also will be several display booths with county departments who will be providing information on various programs and services available to Orleans County families. Each family will also be given a board game to take home to start their own game night.

“This has always been a well-attended event and we hope to see that again this year,” said Legislature Chairman Lynne Johnson.  “As we always say, turn off the television, put your phone down, log off the internet and come join families from across the community for an old-fashioned evening of fun.”

Supporters of this event include Dubby’s Tailgate, Subway, Medina Railroad Museum, Evan’s ACE Hardware & Building Supplies, the Lyndonville Lions Club and Singelyn Enterprises – McDonald’s of Albion.

For more information or to register for the event call the Legislative Office at 585-589-7053 or send an email to Lisa.Stenshorn@orleanscountyny.gov with your name, phone number, address and number of people attending.

Press Release, Congresswoman Claudia Tenney

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today released the following statement underscoring the importance of maintaining the tax cuts introduced under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), commonly known as the Trump Tax Cuts.

In 2017, with Tenney’s strong support, Republicans enacted the TCJA which reduced taxes on middle-income families and small businesses and created nearly five million domestic jobs in just the two years after its passage. In 2022, Tenney supported the TCJA Permanency Act to make permanent the tax cuts for individuals and small businesses originally enacted as part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017.

However, these tax cuts are set to expire on December 31, 2025, which could mean significant tax increases for the 440,200 taxpayers in New York’s 24th District. The average taxpayer in NY-24 could face a 25% tax hike if the cuts are not extended. A family of four with a median income of $69,878 in NY-24 would experience a $1,373 tax increase, equivalent to about seven weeks’ worth of groceries for a typical family.

Impact on NY-24 by the numbers:

• 78,990 families would see their Child Tax Credit cut in half.
• 92% of taxpayers would see their Standard Deduction reduced by nearly 50%.
• 40,720 small businesses would pay an effective 43.4% tax rate if the 199A Qualified Business Income Deduction expires.
• 14,827 taxpayers would be affected by the return of the individual Alternative Minimum Tax.
• The current death tax exemption will be cut in half, affecting 6,804 family-owned farms in NY-24.

“Since its passage in 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act has delivered financially for families, small businesses, and hardworking Americans across the country,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “Millions of Americans have seen their tax burdens reduced, but if these cuts expire, hardworking families in our community could face a 25% tax hike. We must preserve the TCJA provisions that have provided much-needed relief to taxpayers in New York. As a strong advocate for pro-growth policies, I will continue working to ensure the benefits of the Trump Tax Cuts remain in place for future generations.”

Randall and characters will perform at Golden Hill on Oct. 13 during Christmas at Lighthouse fundraiser

Provided photo: Mike Randall, retired reporter from WKBW-TV, is pursuing a new career as a ventriloquist. He is pictured here with one of his favorite characters, Gordon the Groundhog. He will entertain visitors at noon Oct. 13 during Christmas at the Lighthouse at Golden Hill State Park.

BARKER – The annual Christmas at the Lighthouse at Golden Hill State Park, scheduled Oct. 13, will feature extra-special entertainment this year, with the appearance of retired WKBW-TV feature reporter Mike Randall.

Many are familiar with Randall as Mark Twain and Charles Dickens, and now we can laugh as he brings “Mike Randall and Friends” to Golden Hill State Park.

Randall has been in love with puppetry, making them and performing with them since he was a child.

“When I was 7 years old and in Kenmore Mercy Hospital for three months after a car accident, my grandmother gave me a bunch of puppets, and I was hooked,” Randall said. “I made hand puppets, marionettes and eventually tried to build a ventriloquist dummy, but that didn’t go so well. When I was 30 and got my first good-paying job on TV, I bought a professionally made dummy. My family thought I was nuts. It was carved out of wood and I started working on talking without moving my lips.”

He says he never met a puppet he didn’t like, and admits to not being a great ventriloquist. But, he says a lot of magic performing with puppets is in making the characters believable and fun.

“I have steered away from those wooden type dummies that are kind of scary and use soft animal type puppets,” Randall said. “Some I have made myself and some I have had professionally made.”

Randall has received rave reviews for his fun-filled, entertaining shows, as he travels to festivals and family events across the area. A popular family entertainer, Randall has appeared at Springville Dairy/Ag Festival,  Cattaraugus County Fair, M&T Plaza, Eastern Hills Mall Children’s Theatre Series, the Toy Festival in East Aurora, Lewiston’s Wildlife Festival at the NY Power Authority and Cuba Garlic Festival, as well as schools and libraries throughout Western New York.

As a weather-caster and award-winning feature reporter for 40 years at WKBW-TV, Randall has interviewed celebrities such as John Candy, Steve Allen, Red Skelton, Gregory Peck, Willie Nelson and Robert Goulet. He was inducted into the Buffalo Broadcasting Hall of Fame in 2017.

Photos by Ginny Kropf: (Left) Mark Keller of Potsdam, a member of Friends of the Lighthouse, stands next to a sled in the kitchen decorated for Christmas at the Lighthouse on Oct. 13. (Right) Golden Hill State Park employee Barb Larson walks up the new path recently completed to allow visitors a closer look at the lighthouse from the lake side.

Randall’s performance is scheduled at noon Oct. 13 at the lighthouse. It includes puppets, magic, comedy, ventriloquism, audience participation and tons of family fun.

Christmas at the Lighthouse is their biggest fundraiser of the year, said Barb Lawson, a park employee for the last 15 years. Meeting people from all over the world who want to learn about lighthouses is the best part of the job, she said.

Mark and Kim Keller of Potsdam have been a member of Friends of the Lighthouse since 2015, after visiting Golden Hill while touring lighthouses across the country and the Seaway Trail. They spend the last three weeks of every camping season at Golden Hill, to help out and decorate for Christmas at the Lighthouse.

Oct. 13’s event begins at 11 a.m. and runs until 4 p.m. In addition to Randall’s performance, features include a pulled pork dinner, chili, hotdogs, beverages, a basket raffle, free tours to the top of the lighthouse, a farmers’ market, wineries and vendors, one of whom is Mike Dreyfus of Medina.

Mike and Kathy Dreyfus first became familiar with the lighthouse when their daughter was married there in 2012. Since then they have continued to support Friends of the Lighthouse by Mike making and donating buttons and refrigerator magnets for sale in the gift shop and at Christmas at the Lighthouse.

For children, there will be face painting, kids’ tattoos and a visit from Santa.

Other entertainment will be provided by the Lock City Sound men’s glee club from Lockport.

Larson said another great feature is the ability to stay in the lighthouse during the camping season.

She also pointed out a new walkway between the lake and the lighthouse. Boulders have been added to reinforce the breakwall and a path with fence was built so visitors can get closer to the lake and see the lighthouse from back side.

As a special reminder, Larson also said next year will be the 150th anniversary of the lighthouse.

Golden Hill State Park is managed by Renee Campbell.

ALBION – An organization which exists to help people in challenging situations is being honored by the Orleans County Chamber of Commerce with their Community Service Award.

Community Action of Orleans and Genesee is under the leadership of Renee Hungerford, who the organization appreciates being recognized.

Renee Hungerford serves as executive director of Community Action of Orleans & Genesee.

“I feel privileged to lead an agency that makes such a positive difference for our community,” Hungerford said. “Our dedicated staff truly care about the people we assist and are focused on giving people the hope, support and services they need to become self-sufficient and overcome the ravages of poverty. We are grateful to the volunteers and donors who support our agency and make what we do possible. I am thrilled that our agency is being recognized by the Orleans Chamber of Commerce and has given us the opportunity to inform the community about the important work we do.”

Community Action began 60 years ago, and has continued to grow and add programs and services to help needy families, while focusing on helping them become independent and self-sufficient.

Programs include ACT (helping youth ACT responsibly), Stone Soup Success/Food Rx (educating to prepare healthy meals), Child Care Resource and Referral, Early Head Start and Head Start, Weatherization and Energy Services, Main Street Thrifts, Gifts and More store, a Credit Recovery Program for Albion seniors, Emergency Services, holiday meals and gifts and the Eastern Orleans Community Center, which provides daily meals, a clothing depot and food giveaway.

At the agency’s annual in-service day this summer, officials reported that during the previous year Community Action served 4,021 individuals, a 28% increase over the previous year and 75% more than 2021. In their goal to fight hunger, 1,541 individuals utilized one of their three food pantries, 914 individuals utilized a pop-up pantry distribution, 314 individuals received 5,405 prepared meals at the Eastern Orleans Community Center in Holley and 657 households received holiday meals.

In housing, another 311 individuals received assistance to avoid eviction and 129 individuals received assistance to avoid utility shut-off.

Head Start had 149 children enrolled, while 81 were in Early Head Start.

During the in-service event, Hungerford shared their goals looking ahead. She said their agency will make major improvements in many areas going forward, while continuing to focus on helping people become self-sufficient.

ALBION – Two financial institutions in Orleans County have announced a merger to better serve the community.

The Albion School Employees Federal Credit Union’s merger with Cobblestone Country Federal Credit Union became effective Tuesday, according to CCFCU’s manager Christine Ranallo.

Christine Ranallo is manager of the Cobblestone Country Federal Credit Union.

She explained the reason for the merger was because the school’s credit union was very small, with 380 members and very limited services, while the CCFCU is much larger with 2,400 members and more services.

“We’re small, but we have most all the services the big banks have,” Ranallo said.

She said her credit union had discussed a merger with the credit union at school over the years, but the school employees weren’t ready at the time.

“Then about a year ago we approached them again and they thought it was a good idea,” Ranallo said.

The idea for a merger was first came up at the beginning of 2023 at CCFCU’s strategic planning session.

“The facilitator suggested a way to grow was to merge with another credit union, and the only logical choice was the Albion School Employees FCU,” Ranallo said.

The CCFCU exists because of a series of mergers throughout the years. Ranallo has compiled a timeline of events leading up to the current day.

The first to form was the Albion School Employees FCU on Jan. 1, 1963.

On May 10, 1965, the CCFCU had its beginning with the first meeting of the Lipton Federal Credit Union.

Then followed the Albion Correctional Facility Federal Credit Union on Oct. 17, 1974.

Next, the Orleans Municipal FCU was formed Sept. 11, 1979. A year later, on Oct. 14, 1980, the National Credit Union Association approved a name change to Central Orleans Federal Credit Union.

On Nov. 30, 1982, Albion Correctional Facility FCU merged with Central Orleans FCU.

The NCUA on Dec. 14, 1990 approved the merger of Orleans Municipal FCU with Central Orleans FCU.

The name was changed to Cobblestone Country Federal Credit Union in 2002 in anticipation of a change in the charter, Ranallo said.

In June 2005 a charter was applied for and received to change from a Central Orleans-focused FCU to one which included all of Orleans County, hence, the name Cobblestone Country FCU. Today, membership is open to anyone living, working, going to school or worshiping in Orleans County.

CCFCU operated next to COVA in the Arnold Gregory complex until June 2014, when it moved to 299 West Ave.

Like Ranallo, CCFCU employees are loyal and dedicated to serving their customers. Ranallo has been there for 25 years, having started as an accountant and moving up to manager in 2020. Audrey Christopher recently retired after 31 years, while Teresa Radka has been a loan officer for 30 years and three others have worked there five years each.

“When you come in here, you’re going to do business with the same person you did business with last month,” Ranallo said.

CCFCU offers savings and checking accounts, teen checking, Visa ATM cards, Share certificates and Christmas, Tax and Vacation Club accounts; a variety of loan products, including home equity loans; overdraft protection; direct deposit/payroll deduction; mobile deposit; 24/7 ATM; a drive-thru and much more.

There is access to a night deposit box and customers can buy stamps and money orders at the credit union.

CCFCU is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday and 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday. They are closed Wednesday.