ALBION – Orleans County Board of Elections Commissioners Michael Mele and Janice Grabowski today announced information related to the June 25th Primary Elections in Orleans County.
There are only primaries for the Republican ballot line and as such, under New York State law, only registered Republicans can vote in these primaries.
There are countywide primary contests for District Attorney and Coroner. For District Attorney, the election is between Susan M. Howard and John S. Sansone. For County Coroner, voters can choose 3 candidates between Kevin P. Dann, Julie A. Woodworth, Rocco L. Sidari and Scott M. Schmidt.
There is a primary in the 24th Congressional District between Claudia Tenney and Mario Fratto.
There is also a primary for Carlton Council member for a one-year term to fill a vacancy between John L. Olles and Jeffrey A. Gifaldi.
The remaining elections are for members of the Republican County Committee. In Shelby District 3, choose two between Bruce R. Schmidt, Alana J. Koneski and Stephen J. Seitz, Sr. In Shelby District 4, choose for any 2 between John H. Pratt III, Benjamin D. Flansburg and Thomas J. Winans.
In Yates District 2, choose for two between Terry L. Chaffee, Jr., William C. Jurinich, Lynne M. Johnson and Steven A. Colon.
Those who are not currently registered but wish to enroll to vote in the June primary elections must do so by June 15. Early voting begins on Saturday, June 15 and runs through Sunday, June 23 at the Orleans County Board of Elections Office, 14016 State Route 31 in Albion.
Dates and hours are as follows:
Saturday, June 15, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday, June 16, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Monday, June 17, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Tuesday, June 18, from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Wednesday, June 19, from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Thursday, June 20, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Friday, June 21, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday, June 22, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday, June 23, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Those with questions can contact the Orleans County Board of Elections at (585) 589-3274. For more election information, click here.
Vote will be June 20 whether to acquire 153 acres to expand town park
Press Release, Town of Yates
YATES – The Town of Yates has changed the deadlines for applications for absentee ballots for the upcoming special election for the Yates Town Park expansion proposition.
The new extended deadlines for registered Yates voters are:
Thursday, June 13, at 4:30pm is the deadline for an absentee voter to have their application for absentee ballot be received by mail by the Yates Town Clerk.
Wednesday, June 19, at 4:30 p.m. is the deadline for the Town Clerk to receive an application for an absentee ballot if it is delivered personally by the voter or by his/her agent.
The deadline to submit their actual absentee ballots has not changed – it is election day. All absentee ballots must be hand-delivered by the voter’s designated agent or, if mailed, the absentee ballot must be postmarked to the Yates Town Clerk no later than June 20 at 8 p.m.
The special election for in-person voters will take place on Thursday, June 20 from noon to 8 p.m. at the Yates Town Hall (8 S. Main St., Lyndonville, NY 14098).
The ballot referendum will read: “Utilizing grant funds, shall the Town of Yates be authorized to purchase 153.3 acres from NYSEG for $700,000 to expand the Yates Town Park? YES or NO”
There will be two public meetings open to all and attended by town board members to discuss the proposal and to answer questions: Thursday, June 6 at 7 p.m. at the Yates Town Hall; and Saturday, June 15 at 10 a.m. at the Yates Town Park (north terminus of Morrison Road).
Yates Supervisor Jim Simon encourages people to attend the public forums, to email him (jamesjsimon11@gmail.com), or to call him (716-946-2075) if there are any questions.
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) is sponsoring a proposal in the state Assembly that would eliminate the registration fee for Gold Star mothers’ and Gold Star family members’ distinctive license plates.
Hawley believes this initiative is a small way for New York to show its appreciation for the families of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
“As an Assemblyman and a veteran, one of my top priorities is finding ways to give back to the families of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice,” Hawley said. “Gold Star families have given so much for our country and this is just one small way for our state to show our gratitude for all they have done. I’m proud to sponsor this proposal and I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to consider this initiative to show our thanks to our Gold Star families.”
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) attended a joint press conference on Tuesday afternoon to call out the unacceptable and persistent release of cop-killers by the New York State Parole Board.
Since 2017, 41 cop-killers have been released. Hawley was joined by his colleagues in the state Assembly and Senate and members of the law enforcement community to advocate for police officers and their families.
Hawley has sponsored a proposal (A.3481) that would require life without parole for the first-degree murder of a police officer. The Majority, however, has not allowed this initiative to move forward in the lawmaking process.
“New York State’s Parole Board has failed us,” said Hawley. “These are the people who are supposed to keep dangerous criminals locked up, but instead they’re letting them move in next door. Our police officers are the fabric of our society. An attack on one of them is an attack on our way of life. These cop-killing cowards belong in jail, no ifs, ands or buts. I will continue to work with my colleagues in the state Assembly and Senate until we have a parole board that actually cares about protecting victims, not rewarding criminals.”
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 5 June 2024 at 9:14 am
Photos by Tom Rivers
CARLTON – A parade of vehicles from the Town of Carlton Highway Department and Carlton Volunteer Fire Department makes its way down Route 98 on Saturday, while kids spring into action to grab candy.
The town celebrated its second annual “Old Home Days” event on Saturday with a parade and activities at the Carlton Rec Hall and town park, including concerts from two bands: Coupe de Ville and then the Stony Creek Band.
Town Supervisor Gayle Ashbery said the town wants to make “Old Home Days” an annual event, likely the first Saturday in June.
“We had a very good crowd, they stuck around most of the day,” she said. “It’s very fun. A lot of kudos to the people who work for the town. Everybody had their hand in it.”
Kids gather to get some of the candy tossed during the parade.
Ashbery said she would like to see bands and more floats in the parade next year.
“We want to make it bigger and better each year,” she said.
Carlton’s Little League team has fun in the parade.
As part of a bicentennial celebration last year, Carlton organized its first parade since the 1970s. A parade expected to become an annual event for the “Old Home Days.”
Z.A.M. Yohe Draft Horses pulls a group of local officials on a wagon in the procession down Route 98 during the parade on Saturday.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 5 June 2024 at 8:43 am
Photo by Tom Rivers: Gertie Motulli, left, of Sweet Treats by Gertie and Beth Miller of Wild Flour Deli & Bakery served up tasty snacks and food during last year’s flea market at the Cobblestone Museum. Vendors are sought for this year’s market on July 20.
CHILDS – A popular event and fundraiser for the Cobblestone Museum is their annual flea market, scheduled this year on July 20.
Sue Bonafini, assistant director of the Cobblestone Society and Museum, urges anyone interested in participating as a vendor to reserve a space by calling (585) 589-9013.
The museum is seeking crafters, antique vendors or any others to sell goods of all sorts on the museum grounds, near the intersection of routes 98 and 104, just north of Albion. Households, individuals and organizations are welcome.
Hours for the flea market are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the cost for a 10’ x 10’ space is $20 on a first-come, first-served basis. Vendors should bring their own table, chairs and canopy, if possible. There is some partial shade.
WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) celebrated the 100th anniversary of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at several commemorative events across New York’s 24th District last week.
Tenney joined CBP agents from across the Buffalo Sector of the Northern Border which spans 450 miles of the border with Canada from the Ohio/Pennsylvania state line to Jefferson County, New York.
At one of the events, Tenney presented a Congressional Proclamation to Chief Patrol Agent Thomas Martin of the Buffalo Sector, recognizing his and his agents’ dedication to the country. Tenney also joined Rochester CBP Station Chief Juan Ramirez and Deputy Sector Chief James Damato at a ceremony to thank them and their agents for their service.
“Due to President Biden’s disastrous border policies, there has been an alarming surge in illegal crossings at our Northern Border, putting our courageous Customs and Border Protection agents in unprecedentedly challenging situations and endangering our communities,” Tenney said. “Our border protection agents need more support than ever, and I remain dedicated to ensuring they have the resources and backing necessary to safely and effectively do their jobs. Last week, I joined members of the Customs and Border Protection from the Buffalo Sector to celebrate CBP’s 100th anniversary and to thank them for their unwavering commitment to securing our borders. I will always support our CBP agents and their mission to protect our nation.”
BATAVIA – The State University of New York Board of Trustees today appointed Dr. Craig Lamb as president of Genesee Community College. Lamb’s appointment is effective Aug. 1. He succeeds Dr. James Sunser, who is retiring after 13 years as president.
The SUNY Board of Trustees said, “After an extensive and thorough search for the president of Genesee Community College, we would like to congratulate Dr. Craig Lamb. He is no stranger to SUNY, serving at GCC since 2013. His incredible career championing higher education will serve him well as he leads the institution into a bright future.”
About Dr. Craig Lamb
Dr. Craig Lamb joined Genesee Community College in 2013 and currently serves as the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs.
“It is a profound privilege to be selected as the next President of Genesee Community College,” Dr. Lamb said. “I am deeply thankful to those who have entrusted me with this role. For the past ten years, I have been honored to be part of the GCC community, and I am excited to lead our campus in our steadfast commitment to student success.”
Having held various leadership and administrative roles, Dr. Lamb is a believer in the transformative power of a high-quality, affordable, and accessible college education, especially for individuals who have been historically underrepresented and underserved. Dr. Lamb’s efforts are driven by his commitment to inclusivity, intellectual and social growth, shared governance, fiscal responsibility, and the development of life-long learners.
Dr. Lamb’s career has been dedicated to the public postsecondary educational sector, including previous positions at SUNY Empire State University, the University of Connecticut, and SUNY Plattsburgh. He has completed several professional development programs specifically focused on executive leadership within an ever-changing educational environment. Along with his professional and administrative roles, Dr. Lamb has taught a variety of college courses in face-to-face, hybrid, and online modalities for more than two decades.
Dr. Lamb earned his Ph.D. in Educational Administration and Policy Studies from the University at Albany, and his Master of Science in College and Agency Counseling from SUNY Plattsburgh.
Jacalyn Whiting, chair of the GCC Board of Trustees, said, “The Genesee Community College trustees are pleased to welcome Dr. Craig Lamb as our next president. Dr. Lamb brings extensive experience and leadership to this role, and we look forward to working closely with him in continuing our commitment to student success above all else.”
“Community colleges offer so much for the areas they serve, from workforce development and microcredentials for individuals seeking to upskill, to providing students with springboards from associate degrees to our bachelor’s degree programs,” said SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. “Having presidents who understand each campus and know what the communities need is crucial in fostering student success and upward mobility. I congratulate Dr. Lamb on his appointment and look forward to collaborating for the benefit of our students, faculty, and staff.”
Information courtesy of Kathy Dreyfus, publicity chair for Medina Band Boosters
MEDINA – The Medina Band celebrated the 2023-2024 season at the band banquet on Monday at the Shelby Fire Hall and catered by their staff.
Special guests included Dr. Mark Kruzynski, district superintendent; Michael Cavanagh, high school principal; and Board of Education members, Debbie Tompkins and Jennifer Buondonno.
Booster officers were recognized for their countless hours of volunteer time and dedication to the program. These include Crystal Elliott, president; Heather Jackson, vice president; Holly Roush, treasurer; Michelle Wright, secretary; Becky Rinker, student accounts; Mindy Kenward, chaperone chair and past president; Jen Lenhart & Misty Reese, uniform chair; Kathy Dreyfus & Janine Farley, publicity; Jason Clare, transportation; Paul Greean & Shirley Kepner, delegates. Holly Roush will be stepping down and Diana Baker will be the new treasurer. Nick Hartman will now be in charge of transportation.
The Harry L. Dinkle award recognizes a person’s dedication to the program and this year’s recipient is Jen Lenhart.
Instructional staff include: Percussion – Michael Denise; Color Guard – Melissa Jaeger, Kara Brown, Molly Jaeger & Katie Crooks; Pit Instructor – Tiffany Organisciak; Visual Instructor – Ray Jones: Music Arranger & Instructor – Joe Organisciak; Assistant Band Directors – Kyla Leno & Andrea Busch; Percussion Arranger – Steve House; Visual Design – Tim Moshier.
Student Awards
NYSFBC Scholarship – Alex Balaban
Mustang Band Service Scholarship – Madisynn Stanton
Steele Family Award – Alex Balaban
Joseph C. McKain Award – Ryder Jones & Emma Jacobs
Alfred Hartway Drum Major Award – Alex Balaban & Caiden Class.
Outstanding Band Member Awards were given in 3 categories
Outstanding Rookie – Charlotte McGrath (brass), Grace Keppler (ww), Adler Class (perc), and Madison Hamilton (guard)
Most Improved – Shonn Effner (brass), Adelynne Lacy (ww), Aidyn Jackson (perc), and Mackenzie Poynter (guard)
Most Valuable – Cameron Kenward (brass), Caiden Class (ww), Emma Jacobs (perc), and Natalie Herbert (guard)
Director Awards: Teagan Balaban, Carmen Stalker and Logan Trillizio.
Band members were recognized for the number of seasons they participated and the various positions they held.
Student staff were named for the various sections that they will be responsible for. The Drum Major is Mackenzie McGrath and Assistant Drum Majors are Ryder Jones and Riley Tompkins.
The Junior Prologue was given by Riley Tompkins and the Senior Epilogue by Alex Balaban and Caiden Class.
While the 2023-2024 season is coming to a close the 2024-2025 is already starting with rehearsals scheduled for June.
HOLLEY – The Board of Education has selected Karri Schiavone as the next superintendent of the Holley school district. She will succeed Brian Bartalo who is retiring on June 30.
Schiavone has worked for Holley for 26 years, including the past 12 years as the principal of Holley Elementary School. Prior to that she served as the director of instruction and special programs in Holley. Her educational career also includes work in Medina, Brockport and Buffalo.
“Karri brings an unmatched wealth of knowledge, experience and dedication to Holley that shined through our search. Her passion for education coupled with her love for the Holley community will bring growth and success to our school district. We look forward to collaborating with her to support the needs of the district,” said Holley Board President Anne Winkley. “We are thankful for the outstanding leadership Superintendent Bartalo has given to our district these past six years and wish him a happy, healthy retirement.”
The Board will formally appoint Schiavone at a special board meeting on Thursday, June 6. Schiavone will assume her new role July 1.
“I am humbled and honored to have been selected as the next superintendent of the Holley Central School District, a place I call home,” Schiavone said. “I look forward to working with the Board of Education, staff, students and community as we continue our journey toward excellence. Together, we will further build on the district’s successes and ensure that every student has the opportunity to achieve their highest potential.”
Monroe 2-Orleans BOCES District Superintendent Jo Anne L. Antonacci assisted the Holley Board of Education as search consultant throughout the process.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 4 June 2024 at 11:12 am
Three school musicals that were performed in March in Orleans County have been recognized by the Stars of Tomorrow program through the Rochester Broadway Theatre League.
The Stars held its 26th annual awards program last month and some of the schools in the Rochester region were able to perform a selection from their musicals on the RBTL’s Auditorium Theatre. Albion, Lyndonville and Medina all were able to take the stage and all won awards for their March productions.
Lyndonville and Medina are grouped in schools with population less than 500, while Albion is ranked larger schools with more than 500 students.
Lyndonville had a cast and crew of 75 students in the production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.”
Lyndonville was recognized for Excellence in Vocal Ensemble, Excellence in Dance Ensemble, and Excellence in Student Orchestra.
Elizabeth Whipple, the Narrator, was recognized for achievement in a leading role.
Lyndonville’s director Jennifer Trupo also was honored with one of three “Impact Awards” given among all schools. She has built a strong program with large casts and student participation.
Albion received many awards for its production of Little Women. These main characters include, from left: Mallory Kozody as Josephine “Jo” March, Ella Trupo as Beth, Zack Baron as Laurie, Lily Brigham as Amy and Danielle Wyant as Meg.
Albion was a big winner and was honored with Excellence in Overall Production, Excellence in Acting Ensemble, Excellence in Vocal Ensemble, Excellence in Dance Ensemble, Excellence in Student Orchestra, Excellence in Production Design,
Achievement in a Leading Role: Mallory Kozody as Jo March, Mallory Ashbery as Marmee, Gideon Park as Mr. Bhaer, and Zackary Baron and Laurie.
Medina performed the ambitious Les Misérables, a story of the 1832 June Rebellion in France. In this scene the young revolutionaries prepare themselves for battle.
Medina won for Excellence in Vocal Ensemble, Excellence in Dance Ensemble, and Excellence in Production Crew,
Achievement in a Leading Role: Elaina Huntington as Madame Thenardier.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 4 June 2024 at 10:09 am
ALBION – A Medina man was sentenced to six years in state prison plus three years of post-release supervision.
Demarques “Dutch” Underwood, 34, on Nov. 15 pleaded guilty on Nov. 15 to criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree. He admitted he had cocaine with the intent to sell it.
He was sentenced last week by Orleans County Court Judge Sanford Church. Underwood was charged with a codefendant in October 2023 after police seized over 40 baggies of crack cocaine, $3,400 in cash, scales, numerous packaging material and other drug paraphernalia.
In other cases in County Court:
• Jayah Osby, 24, of Albion was sentenced to a year in prison for criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fifth degree.
Osby was charged on Aug. 21 after being searched by Albion police officers who located cocaine, marijuana and distribution bags for sale as well as $600 in cash. There was an active arrest warrant for Osby at the time.
• Vincent McLeod, 26, a former inmate at Orleans Correctional Facility in Albion, was sentenced to 1 ½ to 3 years in prison for attempted promoting prison contraband for having a black ceramic razor blade on Nov. 29, 2022. He is now an inmate at Wallkill Correctional Facility serving an 8-year sentence for first-degree robbery and attempt assault in the first degree.
• David Brege, 37, of Medina, pleaded guilty to attempted criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, and driving while ability impaired due to drugs.
Brege was charged in October after having cocaine, a rifle and knife concealed in a flashlight. He faces up to 5 years in prison when he is sentenced.
• Christian Strickland, 25, of Medina was arraigned was arraigned for driving while intoxicated and aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. He was charged on Dec. 21.
