County Historian to move to space next to Subway in Albion

Photos by Tom Rivers: The Central Hall building at 34 East Park St. will soon be vacated and put up for sale by Orleans County. The County Historian will move to a space next to the Subway.

ALBION – The County Legislature agreed today to a lease space in a plaza on South Main Street for the county historian, a move that will be made as soon as the space is ready.

The historian works out of the top floor of Central Hall at 34 East Park St. That building will become vacate once the historian and Department of History are moved to the plaza. County officials said the change is a cost-cutting move that could save $90,000 to $110,000 a year in maintenance and other expenses once the building is sold.

The change also will make the historian’s office more accessible to the public, county officials said. The space is on the first floor and people won’t need to climb stairs to access the building.

The county has owned Central Hall the past 45 years. It was used by the treasurer until September 2024 and used to be the offices for the Probation Department.

The County Historian and the Department of History’s artifacts will move to 2,000 square feet of space on the side of a plaza next to Subway. Most of this space is on the north side of the building. The historian and any visitors to the office can use a parking lot for the county treasurer.

Central Hall, a solid red-brick building, was a school from 1882 to 1934, and then was used as the post for the American Legion until the site was bought by the county in 1980.

The historian will move to 2,000 square feet of space on the north side of the plaza, facing the parking lot of the treasurer’s office. There will be a part of the historian’s office facing the main parking lot.

The county won’t have to pay to lease the building except for the cost of utilities and to renovate the site. The county also will plow the parking lot in the winter. The county is already plowing out the treasurer’s office and some of the spots in the lot that are used for the treasurer’s office.

The Buildings and Grounds staff for the county will be putting in an ADA-compliant bathroom and making other renovations to the site.

The lease agreement was approved by the Legislature in a 6-1 vote. Legislator Fred Miller cast the lone no vote. He thanked Lynne Johnson, the Legislature chairwoman, for her work on the lease but he didn’t agree with the relocation of the historian to the plaza.

“I don’t feel this is what the county should be doing,” Miller said during the Legislature meeting.

The Legislature approved the lease with Nomax Albion, LLC, which is owned by Noah Michaels. He reached out to the county about leasing the space in exchange for plowing the parking lot for the plaza.

The county doesn’t have a solid move-in date for the historian. It depends on when the space can be made ready by the Buildings and Grounds staff.

Photo courtesy of Hinspergers Poly

MEDINA – The employees at Hinspergers Poly Industries Inc. in Medina have donated in a big way to the red barrel toy drive by the Medina Area Association of Churches.

The employees at Hinspergers Poly in Medina hosted a red barrel for the first time and they filled it – and they filled three more bins to hold all of the donations.

The Hinsperger family then matched the employee effort. MAAC has 42 red barrels out in the community for people to donate gifts that will be given to families before Christmas.

Photos courtesy of Tim Archer

ALBION –  Albion eighth-graders Sutton Sanders, left, and Luci Borello are pictured with two of four new roadside markers that show local connections to the Revolutionary War.

The markers, valued at $2,050 each, were funded through the Pomeroy Foundation. The markers will be installed next spring at area cemeteries, including both the Annis Cemetery on Riches Corners Road and Tanner Cemetery in Albion on Route 31, across from Mount Albion.

This photo shows a headstone for Revolutionary War veteran Lott Swift, who is buried at the East Barre Cemetery. It will replace his broken headstone there. The Albion students applied for the new stone through the Veterans Administration in Washington, D.C.  In the picture are Patrice Birner (Orleans Chapter DAR), Luci Borello, Sutton Sanders, Barre Highway Superintendent Dale Brooks (who will install the headstone), Kirk Mathes (the cemetery was originally part of the Mathes farm and named the Roy Mathes cemetery), and Barre Town Supervisor-elect Steve Coville (the town helped with the application).

Patrice Birner and the DAR donated 14 new bronze flag markers for the Revolutionary War burial sites in the county that did not have one.

Luci Borello and Sutton Sanders place a new flag marker at the site of Revolutionary War veteran Anthony Tripp at Mt. Albion Cemetery.

The two students did research and work this past summer on gathering information on Revolutionary War veterans buried in the county as part of our country’s upcoming 250th anniversary, said Tim Archer, an Albion teacher helping to coordinate this effort.

The information will be shared with the local DAR and the county historian. More than 60 Revolutionary War soldiers can be confirmed, with another 45 unconfirmed.

Press Release, Orleans County Sheriff Chris Bourke

Amanda Clemons-Whited

ALBION –Amanda Clemons-Whited, 41, while in custody at the Orleans County Jail on Nov. 24, allegedly verbally accosted Corrections Officers using racially charged language, attempted to strike an officer, and threw urine from a cup onto an officer, thereby exposing the officer to bodily fluids which is considered a dangerous substance.

Following an investigation by the Criminal Investigations Division, Clemons-Whited was charged with Aggravated Harassment of an Employee by an Inmate (Class E Felony) and Aggravated Harassment 2nd – Hate Crime (Class A Misdemeanor).

Our dedicated Corrections Officers work diligently each day to protect and serve Orleans County. Incidents of this nature will not be tolerated within the Orleans County Jail, will be thoroughly investigated, and individuals found responsible will be charged accordingly.

Clemons-Whited is currently incarcerated in the Orleans County Jail and will be returning to the Town of Albion Court on Dec. 10 for further proceedings on these charges.

Provided photo: Lisa McQueen, a licensed practical nurse at Medina Memorial Hospital, has received the Caring Heart Award from NYSHFA/NYSCAL’s western region.

MEDINA – A stellar reputation for kindness, humility and unwavering commitment to the residents she cares for has earned Lisa McQueen the Caring Heart Award.

McQueen has been a valued member of the Orleans Community Health family for six years. She consistently goes above and beyond – offering support to colleagues, lending a hand wherever it’s needed and bringing comfort to those who rely on her.

“Lisa represents the best of what compassionate care truly looks like,” said Tom Bloomer, administrator of Orleans Community Health’s North Wing. “Her warmth, her dedication and her steady presence make a meaningful difference every single day.”

The honor was given by the New York State Health Facilities Association and New York State Center for Assisted Living.

This prestigious award celebrates long-term care professionals who exemplify compassion, service and dedication, said Scott Robinson, director of marketing at Medina Memorial Hospital and Orleans Community Health.

“We are thrilled to celebrate Lisa with this well-deserved honor,” Robinson said. “She is an incredible asset to our team and we couldn’t be prouder.”

The Caring Heart Award reflects qualities that McQueen embodies effortlessly – empathy, professionalism and a deep respect for the individuals and families she serves, Robinson added.

“Her heart for service continues to inspire us all,” he said.

Press Release, Diocese of Buffalo

Photo courtesy of Diocese of Buffalo: Bishop Michael W. Fisher said enforcement of immigration laws shouldn’t use “campaigns of fear that cripple whole communities.”

BUFFALO – In his latest Pastoral Letter, “Once Aliens, Too,” Bishop Michael W. Fisher invokes over 130 years of Catholic social teaching in a call for an end to the dehumanizing rhetoric toward immigrants and renewed respect for their inherent human dignity and basic legal protections.

Bishop Fisher’s Pastoral Letter follows the recent “Special Message” issued by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops on the same topic, and the statement of the New York Catholic Bishops issued on November 13, 2025, “For You Too Were Once Aliens…”

Bishop Fisher references the teachings of several pontiffs, beginning with the seminal 1891 papal encyclical of Pope Leo XIII, Rerum Novarum, in addition to Pius XII, Saint John Paul II, and Pope Francis, in asserting the unequivocal requirement of the Gospels and Catholic social teaching to show preference for the poor and vulnerable, and immigrants, in particular.

Bishop Fisher notes how meaningful immigration reform has been “debated though delayed by both major political parties for decades.”  He further reaffirms the U.S. government’s “duty to secure its borders and ensure that immigrants enter our country legally.”

In doing so, however, Bishop Fisher reiterates the New York Bishop’s assertion that “The requirement to act with charity toward friend and stranger alike … takes precedence over all other imperatives. This obligation to demonstrate empathy and care for those who seek refuge in our country is ‘concerned neither with legal status nor country of origin.’”

Bishop Fisher shared his Pastoral Letter with all priests of the Diocese on Friday, prior to the First Sunday of Advent, acknowledging the “horrible tragedy that occurred in our nation’s Capital this past Wednesday, which has claimed the life of US Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, and critically injured US Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe—both members of the West Virginia National Guard.”  The alleged gunman is an immigrant from Afghanistan.  The Pastoral Letter is being distributed to the broader Catholic community and broader public today.

Bishop Fisher concludes his Pastoral Letter by referencing our nation’s immigrant beginnings: “Mindful that our ancestors were also once aliens in need of compassion, care, and opportunity, we must speak out for those who desire only the same, but whose voices seem not to matter, and whose basic rights—even as immigrants—are so callously cast aside. As a nation, we know in our hearts that we can and should do better. As Christians, we must.”

Law enforcement issues 38 tickets with saturation patrols on Nov. 26-27

Joint Press Release by Albion Police Department, Orleans County Sheriff’s Office & New York State Police

ALBION – The Albion Police Department hosted and supervised a multi-agency Orleans County Wide DWI Saturation Patrol and 2 checkpoint locations last week beginning on Wednesday at 7 p.m. and ending at 3 a.m. on Thanksgiving.

This detail combined the Law Enforcement efforts from three law enforcement agencies in Orleans County along with the Orleans County Probation Department and NYS Parole.

The agencies involved consisted of the Albion Police, Orleans County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police, with logistical support provided by the Orleans County Probation and NYS Parole. While the Medina Police Department and the Holley Police Department did not participate in the checkpoint each agency conducted saturation patrols in their jurisdiction.

The detail results are as follows:

• DWI Arrests: 3 – 2 in the Village of Albion (Albion PD), one misdemeanor and one felony; 1 in the Town of Albion (Sheriff’s Office)
• Vehicles through the Checkpoint: 100-plus
• Traffic Stops: 68
• Tickets Issued: 20 by Albion PD, 4 by Orleans County Sheriff’s Office, 4 by New York State Police, 4 by Medina Police, and 6 by the Holley Police
• NYS Penal Law Arrests: 1 Criminal Possession of Controlled Substance 2x counts (Albion PD)
• NYS Vehicle & Traffic Law Arrests: 3 – 1 Felony (AUO 1st) 2 Misdemeanors (AUO 3rd & Suspended Reg)-Albion PD
• Agency Breakdown: Albion PD, 26 stops; Orleans County Sheriff’s Office, 7 stops; State Police, 6 stops; Medina PD, 16 stops; and Holley Police, 14 stops.

The Albion Police Department and the other law enforcement agencies are committed to making the roadways safe for all those who travel upon them.

Compared to previous years, this year’s detail had a comparable number of vehicle stops and vehicles traveling through the checkpoint as previous years, but the percentage of intoxicated or impaired drivers has decreased again from previous years.

The data from this year’s detail indicates that less than 5% of the motorists stopped were intoxicated and around 2% of all encounters were with intoxicated people, whereas in previous years we have seen data as high as 20% of the motorists stopped were intoxicated.

This is positive news in our efforts to reduce accidents caused by intoxicated drivers. The reduction of DWI arrests is a positive and motivating factor when these types of details are conducted.

Many believe that law enforcement want to make more DWI arrests during these details, however we like to see the opposite. Law enforcement had interactions with numerous individuals and found that an overwhelming majority were responsible and not under the influence of alcohol. We also encountered several intoxicated passengers with sober designated drivers.

Intoxicated drivers do not follow jurisdictional lines, so we decided that we would not either. The Albion Police Department and its partners are planning similar details for the future. We will continue to use every resource and tool available to create a reduction in offenders and arrest those who continue to endanger others by driving while intoxicated.

The commitment and dedication by the officers, deputies and troopers who worked the detail undoubtedly saved lives in Orleans County by making arrests and sending a clear message to deter others from drinking and driving.

ALBION – An Albion teen reported missing on Monday is with relatives and is safe, the Albion Police Department said.

Hailey Elmer, 15,  was last seen by her family at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday.

Provided photo: This photo shows Iroquois Job Corps students at their graduation in August.

SHELBY – The Iroquoius Job Corps has a message for the community: The center remains open and welcomes more students.

There may be confusion about the status of the center after the federal Department of Labor suspended the programs in May, with most of the students at 99 centers sent home. However, a federal judge in June ruled Job Corps Centers nationwide must remain open.

The local Job Corps at 11780 Tibbits Rd. is stepping up outreach to welcome students. The free residential program is open to students ages 16 to 24 years old.

The open house is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is a chance to meet teachers and counselors.

“See the campus, meet some students, get energized about changing the direction of your future,” the Job Corps said in promoting the event.

The center can help students earn their high school diploma, and earn certificates in carpentry, brick masonry, electrical, CNA (certified nursing assistant) or CMA (certified medical assistant).

Those going are asked to RSVP at 585-344-6714.

Press Release, Maison Albion

Sarah Omicioli

ALBION – Maison Albion is pleased to announce the appointment of Sarah Omicioli as its new Venue Manager. Omicioli joins the team with an impressive 10-year track record in event planning, most recently with Good Neighbor Events in Buffalo, where she honed her expertise in creating memorable experiences and managing complex event logistics.

In her new role, Omicioli will oversee all venue operations at Maison Albion, working closely with clients to bring their visions to life while ensuring seamless execution of events. Her extensive background in event planning positions her uniquely to understand both the creative and operational demands of hosting exceptional gatherings.

“We are thrilled to welcome Sarah to the Maison Albion family,” said Kerri Glover, owner of the site at 13800 W County House Rd. “Her wealth of experience and proven ability to deliver outstanding events make her the perfect fit for this role. We’re confident that her leadership will elevate the experience for every client who chooses Maison Albion for their special occasions.”

Throughout her tenure at Good Neighbor Events, Omicioli developed a reputation for meticulous attention to detail, creative problem-solving, and a client-first approach that consistently exceeded expectations. Her experience spans a diverse range of events, from intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations.

“I’m excited to join Maison Albion and contribute to its legacy of hosting extraordinary events,” said Omicioli. “This venue offers such incredible possibilities, and I look forward to working with clients to create unforgettable moments.”

For more information about Maison Albion or to schedule a venue tour, please visit www.maisonalbion.com or contact bonjour@maisonalbion.com.

Photos courtesy of Hospice of Orleans: (Left) This photo shows from left stylist Leslie Saj, Salon De Coiffeur owner and stylist Terah Jackson and stylist Jianna Saulsbury. (Right) Some of the items up for raffle included an autographed photo by Ray Davis of the Buffalo Bills.

Press Release, Hospice of Orleans County

MEDINA – Hospice of Orleans County is pleased to announce a generous contribution resulting from the dedication of a local business owner and the enthusiastic support of the community.

Terah Jackson, owner and stylist at Salon De Coiffeur, has successfully concluded her salon’s Annual Christmas Raffle, raising $2,305 for Hospice of Orleans County.

For the past two months, Ms. Jackson diligently sought donations and promoted the raffle, inspiring an outpouring of support from community members and local businesses. This massive effort resulted in over 55 generously donated baskets and raffle items.

“We are incredibly grateful for Ms. Jackson’s hard work and the overwhelming generosity of the entire community,” said Brittany Dix, Community Outreach Specialist. “When community members take it upon themselves to initiate such a substantial fundraising effort, it directly helps provide vital resources that allow us to continue offering compassionate care and support to our patients and their families in Orleans County. This sort of community dedication is especially meaningful.”

The raffle, which drew winners on Nov. 18, featured a diverse array of items, including handmade cutting boards, hair supplies, chocolates, wine, gift cards, and a highly-coveted Buffalo Bills autograph.

Hospice of Orleans County extends its deepest thanks to Terah Jackson, Salon De Coiffeur stylists Leslie Saj & Jianna Saulsbury, and everyone who contributed to the success of this meaningful event.

Photos courtesy of Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Company: Firefighters work on putting out a fire in a house on Niagara-Orleans Countyline Road on Monday evening.

RIDGEWAY – One resident was taken by ambulance from a house fire on Niagara-Orleans Countyline Road on Monday evening. The Red Cross was requested to assist that person with emergency housing.

Firefighters were dispatched to the scene at 7:43 p.m. Firefighters worked for hours to find hidden fire and stop it, the Ridgeway Fire Company stated on its Facebook page. The fire was declared under control at 10:04 p.m. with extensive overhaul operations. Firefighters cleared the scene just after midnight.

Ridgeway was assisted at the scene by Medina Fire Department, Lyndonville Joint Fire District, Shelby Fire Company, Albion Joint Fire District, Tri-Town Ambulance and a fill-in crew from Hartland Fire Company.

This was also the first call of Ridgeway’s new fire truck, Engine 12.