By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 2 October 2025 at 9:17 am
This map shows where Medina Memorial Hospital plans to put a new parking lot with 56 spaces at 517, 521 and 525 Eagle St. The hospital will demolish a house for a new parking lot.
MEDINA – The Medina Village Board has approved a change in the village zoning map, expanding the Medical Overlay District on Eagle Street.
Medina Memorial Hospital will be demolishing a house at 525 Eagle St. and putting in a new parking lot with 56 spaces, which is across from the main entrance of the hospital on Ohio Street. The parking lot also includes 517 and 521 Eagle St.
The project also will include sidewalk improvements to the hospital’s main entrance. The new lot would be on a parcel that is .81 acre. The new lot will ease parking pressure in the main lot next to the hospital that is often congested.
The new parking lot will be for hospital employees, with patients and visitors parking on the other side of the street closer to the hospital. The project is expected to be complete next year.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 2 October 2025 at 9:01 am
Photo by Tom Rivers: Lee-Whedon Memorial Library Director Kristine Mostyn last week updated Orleans County legislators on an expansion to the Medina library that will add meeting rooms and a “maker space” will be a separate room for some of the programs. County Legislator Bill Eick is in back.
ALBION – The libraries in Orleans Conty are seeking $1 per person in funding from the Conty Legislature. That has been the request in recent years, but the Legislature has kept libraries at $10,087 since 2011.
The four public libraries in Albion, Holley, Lyndonville and Medina are collectively seeking $40,343. The county’s population was 40,343 in the 2020 Census.
One of the library directors, Kristine Mostyn of Lee-Whedon Memorial Library in Medina, told legislators that libraries have changed to meet the needs of the community, offering more online service, meeting spaces and programs.
“We’re not just a warehouse for books,” she said.
Lee-Whedon has just started a $5 million construction project that will put a 4,785-square-foot addition on the back of the current library, which is 11,100 square feet.
The addition will create space for two meeting rooms, two tutoring rooms, a programming room with makerspace, Friends of the Library book sale room, a quiet research room, a teen room and 14 parking spots.
There would also be additional restrooms, a new circulation desk, a new entry portico with automatic sliding doors, about a 10 percent increase in the collection and upgraded technology.
Mostyn said the initial projections on the local tax impact have lessened after Lee-Whedon secured grants and raised $360,000 in donations from the community. Lee-Whedon has set a $500,000 fund-raising goal on the capital campaign.
Library leaders from the other libraries are expected to make a presentation next month to the Legislature, seeking for a funding boost.
The county was giving $29,914 to be shared among the four libraries as recently as 2002, but that dropped to $7,480 in 2003. Since then, the amount was raised to $12,587 in 2007, $13,617 in 2010, and then was cut to $10,087 in 2011. It hasn’t changed since then.
Initiative focused on hygiene insecurity among disadvantaged youth in Orleans County
Provided photos: (Left) This laundry unit was purchased courtesy of Health Foundation for Western and Central New York project budget. (Right) This photo shows personal care and laundry supplies for participating students.
Press Release, Community Action of Orleans and Genesee
ALBION – Team Nate is part of Cohort 11 of the Health Leadership Fellows program. As part of the program, each team must define and execute a health enhancing project.
Team Nate and Community Action of Orleans and Genesee are proud to announce the launch of the Fresh Start Center, a groundbreaking initiative designed to address hygiene insecurity among disadvantaged youth in Orleans County.
Located within the Main Street Corner Thrifts, Gifts, and More at 131 South Main St., the Fresh Start Center provides discreet, dignified access to laundry facilities, hygiene products, and life skills support for students in need.
The center is a direct response to alarming local data showing that up to 39% of students in Orleans County live in poverty, with many homes lacking basic plumbing. Teachers have reported that hygiene-related stigma contributes to chronic absenteeism and social isolation, particularly among high school students.
“This project is about more than clean clothes—it’s about restoring dignity, improving mental health, and helping students stay in school,” said Renee Hungerford, Executive Director/CEO of Community Action. “We’re proud to offer a safe, supportive space where teens can take care of their basic needs without shame or judgment.”
(Left) Cassie Healy is the Fresh Start program manager. (Right) This artwork was completed by SUNY Brockport students.
The Center is embedded in Community Action’s thrift store, a familiar and accessible location. The initial pilot will focus on needs within the Albion High School.
Key features of the Fresh Start Center include:
A private laundry area with a ventless washer-dryer unit.
Free laundry supplies, and personal hygiene products.
Life skills training and referrals to wraparound services such as housing, counseling, and employment support
Plans for future expansion include shower facilities, pending funding.
Members of the Team Nate Fresh Start project team include:
Larissa Bachman, MSW – Chief Operating Officer, Pinnacle Community Services
Brandi Haynes – Chief Programming Officer, Community Action of WNY
Renee Hungerford. MHI – CEO/CIO, Community Action of Orleans and Genesee
Karen Kinter – CEO, Oak Orchard Health
Michael C. Osborne – VP of Strategic Growth and Portfolio Development, Catholic Health
Sarahmona Przybyla, PhD, MPH – Assistant Dean, University at Buffalo School of Public Health and Health Professions
Senior Health leaders selected to participate in Cohort 11 of the Health Leadership Fellows program of the Health Foundation for Western and Central New York. From left to right they are: Renee Hungerford, MHI – CEO/CIO, Community Action of Orleans and Genesee; Karen Kinter – CEO, Oak Orchard Health; Larissa Bachman, MSW – Chief Operating Officer, Pinnacle Community Services; Sarahmona Przybyla, PhD, MPH – Assistant Dean, University at Buffalo School of Public Health and Health Professions; Tanya Staples – Principal Consultant at Perrin Associates – Team Coach; Brandi Haynes – Chief Programming Officer, Community Action of WNY; and Michael C. Osborne – VP of Strategic Growth and Portfolio Development, Catholic Health.
The project was made possible with funding from the Health Foundation for Western and Central New York and the dedication of volunteers. The team is grateful to the foundation for the funding and opportunity to make a difference in the lives of students.
We are also grateful to Mark Hungerford, and Dan and Cassie Healy for spending their weekends installing the necessary plumbing, electrical wiring, and setting up the space. A number of SUNY Brockport students volunteered their time to paint beautiful artwork in the center.
A special thanks also goes out to doctors Nancy Ciavarri and Thomas Verme for donated resources for future sustainability of the program after conclusion of the project. The team would also like to thank Suburban Electric and Albion Ace Hardware for affordable pricing of materials and the Albion High School for our valued partnership.
Community Action will continue to seek donations of hygiene and laundry items from the broader community to sustain the program.
For more information or to support the Fresh Start Center, please contact Community Action of Orleans and Genesee at info@caoginc.org.
Press Release, Orleans County Major Felony Crime Task Force
Arthur Lewis Jr.
ALBION – An Albion man is facing drug charges following an investigation into the sale and distribution of cocaine and crack cocaine in the village of Albion, the Orleans County Major Felony Crime Task Force said today.
The Task Force along with the Albion Police Department, the Orleans County Sheriff’s Department and NYS Corrections and Community Supervision executed a search warrant on July 1 at an Erie Street residence in Albion. The Task Force also executed a warrant on July 3 in Buffalo.
Police seized a quantity of cocaine, a digital scale and over $2,000 in cash at the Albion location and approximately $200,000 cash at the city of Buffalo location.
Arthur Lewis Jr., 38, of Erie Street in Albion charged with 1 count of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, intent to sell (B felony), and 1 count of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fourth degree (C felony).
Lewis is currently on parole for a previous drug and weapon conviction. He pled to a violation of his parole conditions at a hearing conducted by the NYS Corrections and Community Supervision on Sept. 15 and is serving 12 months for the violation.
This morning, Lewis appeared in Orleans County Court in front Judge Sanford Church and Lewis pled to attempted criminal possession of a controlled substance with the intent to sell, a class C felony. He faces 3 1/2 to 9 years when sentenced on Dec. 3.
Also assisting in the investigation was the Orleans County District Attorney Susan Howard, the Albion Police Department, the Orleans County Sheriff’s Department and K9, the NYS Corrections and Community Supervision, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration asset forfeiture unit.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 1 October 2025 at 10:49 am
Photo by Tom Rivers: The Orleans Renaissance Group wants to give the Canal Village Farmers’ Market a dramatic new look and make the site usable year-round as a market.
MEDINA – A high-profile corner in Medina is poised for its first major upgrade in more than 50 years.
The Orleans Renaissance Group is working on a major capital project at the Canal Village Farmers’ Market at 127 West Center St. This project was approved for $675,000 from the NY Forward grant.
But the ORG needs more funding to make the transformation of the site a reality.
The farmers’ market previously was used by a bank and also a gas station. The building will be expanded and remodeled to allow for year-round use, according to the ORG plan.
The improvements include a new standing seam metal roof, new painted steel structure, glazed overhead doors, cementitious siding, concrete base, windows, aluminum storefront entry doors, metal canopies, complementary brick masonry and new rooftop signs.
Rendering by Alderman Architect: The Canal Village Farmers’ Market would get a new metal roof and canopies, and other exterior work.
ORG announced a public appeal to help with the overall anticipated costs of $1.2 million. Chris Busch, the ORG chairman, said the organization will be seeking grants through foundations and welcomes donations from the public. The contributions are tax deductible.
“We’re moving forward on several fronts to secure some substantial amounts of money,” Busch said. “No donation is too small if people want to be a part of turning that corner into a community asset.”
The site has been used for an outdoor farmers’ market from June through October on Saturdays during the past decade. The improvement project will allow for a year-round market with indoor space.
Busch said it would open the possibility to the market being open two to three days a week, and also potentially could allow for other community uses.
The market building would be expanded going towards West Center Street.
The Orleans Renaissance Group is developing a business plan to make the site “a thriving agri-tourism venue.”
“The new construction and amenities will allow the site to become a year-round hub within historic downtown, hosting the market along with farm-to-table and agri-tourism related community and private events,” ORG states on its website about the project. “It will be a unique venue among farmer’s markets in WNY, further enhancing Downtown Medina’s reputation as a destination.”
Busch said he is hopeful construction could start in 6 to 8 months if the funding comes through with the improvements ready by 2027.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 1 October 2025 at 8:35 am
‘Let us recognize 100 years of doctors, nurses, staff and volunteers who have walked these halls, dedicating themselves to the well-being of others’
Photos by Ginny Kropf: (Left) Guests enjoy cake celebrating Medina Memorial Hospital’s 100th anniversary. At left in photo is Jeanne Crane, a long-time nurse at the hospital. At right, staff from dietary cut the cake. (Right) Peggy Thomas of Holley took time to look over a timeline of pictures from the hospital’s 100 years.
MEDINA – For the past year, Medina Memorial Hospital has been celebrating the 100th anniversary of its founding.
On Tuesday morning, the hospital had a final gathering with cake for invited guests in the hospital lobby.
(Left) Orleans Community Health CEO Marc Shurtz welcomes guests at a gathering on Tuesday to celebrate the hospital’s 100th anniversary. (Right) Lynne Johnson, chair of the Orleans County Legislature, praised Medina Memorial Hospital and said it was an honor to be there as the hospital celebrated a century of care, compassion and community.
Sharing special remarks were Lynne Johnson, chair of the Orleans County Legislature; Jacob G. Mahoney on behalf of Governor Kathy Hochul; and Medina Mayor Marguerite Sherman.
Orleans Community Health CEO Marc Shurtz welcomed guests, which included dedicated team members, special guests and community supporters.
“For more than 100 years, this institution has been more than just a hospital – it has been a cornerstone of hope, healing and resilience for the people of Orleans County and beyond,” Johnson said. “Yet, as a member of the board of trustees, I know all too well the undeniable challenge this institution continually faces. Only through the hard work of our clinical staff that provides exceptional care to our residents, and the vision of administration that somehow finds a way to navigate through the constantly evolving healthcare industry, are we able to stand here today and celebrate this milestone.”
Johnson concluded by saying, “Let us recognize 100 years of doctors, nurses, staff and volunteers who have walked these halls, dedicating themselves to the well-being of others. And as we honor the past, let us look to the future – with renewed commitment to innovation, excellence and the same spirit of service that has defined Medina Memorial Hospital for a century.”
Johnson then presented Shurtz with a proclamation from the Orleans County Legislature.
“Healthcare, as we know, is not without its challenges,” Shurtz said. “But what makes this organization strong is the spirit of collaboration – the willingness of our staff, our partners and our community to come together. That collective effort has not only allowed us to persevere, but to grow and to expand the care we provide right here close to home.”
Shurtz explained over the last three years they have been able to strengthen and expand critical services. Surgical, cardiac, GI and ENT care have all been either expanded or introduced, helping us meet more of our patients’ needs locally.
“And just as important, we’ve invested in expanding access to primary care, from pediatrics to adult medicine, right here in Medina,” Shurtz said. “Our Medina Healthcare Center recently received a $1.9 million grant to support this mission – an achievement that reflects both the need in our community and trust placed in us to meet it.”
The front page of The Medina Daily Journal from September 30, 1925 celebrates the opening of a hospital in Medina.
“Today, as we mark 100 years of Medina Memorial Hospital, we stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, and we look ahead with a drive to continue building on that legacy,” Shurtz continued. “A century strong, we remain committed to providing the very best care we can to our neighbors, our families and our friends. Thank you again for being here, and thank you for believing in Orleans Community Health. Together, we’ll ensure the next century is just as strong as the last.”
Governor Kathy Hochel was represented by Jacob G. Mahoney, who reiterated the governor’s support of Medina Memorial Hospital with the $1.9 million grant.
He said Orleans County has faced enormous challenges, and stated how fortunate they were having this facility in their backyard for 100 years.
Next was Medina Mayor Marguerite Sherman, who said, “In the village of Medina, we remain thankful to have Orleans Community Health and Medina Memorial Hospital in our community. Mark Shurtz spoke about collaboration, and that is what we represent in the village of Medina. Hopefully, we can all continue to work together so as to provide these much-needed services in our village and county. I have previously served on the Orleans Community Health Foundation and have seen first-hand all of the work that goes into making this hospital thrive.”
The morning concluded with guests enjoying an anniversary cake.
GLOW With Your Hands welcomed students from all Orleans County districts
Photos courtesy of GLOW With Your Hands: GLOW With Your Hands: Manufacturing held its seventh career exploration event in Batavia today, with students interacting with businesses and organizations from the trades, advanced manufacturing, agriculture and construction industries.
Press Release, GLOW With Your Hands
BATAVIA – GLOW With Your Hands today hosted over 1,250 students from 32 school districts from across the GLOW region at the Genesee County Fairgrounds.
Students attended from all five school districts in Orleans County – Albion, Holley, Kendall, Lyndonville and Medina.
The day-long, hands-on event gave students a chance to learn about career opportunities and meet local employers.
The event provided students with the opportunity to interact with employers and career pathway organizations, experience hands-on career demonstrations, and learn more about the career opportunities available right in their own backyard.
Over 75 businesses provided hands-on activities and simulations in the advanced manufacturing, agriculture, food production and skilled trades sectors. Students also were able to learn that many companies offer good-paying opportunities immediately after high school graduation, as well as accelerated training programs available in the region.
“Educators, workforce experts, and local companies continue to collaborate to ensure our students are well-informed about the career opportunities available to them locally and GLOW With Your Hands is another program that contributes to these efforts,” said GLOW With Your Hands Co-Chair, Karyn Winters.
She continued, “We are experiencing record private sector growth across the region, driven in part by our proactive efforts to prepare the next generation of workforce candidates. Our students are ready to contribute on day one of the job because of the instruction, information, and hands-on activity they receive throughout their K-12 journey.”
GLOW With Your Hands is one of the premier workforce development programs of the Northeast United States. Introducing hands-on careers to local students is being replicated across many communities that are aiming to alleviate the workforce shortage and introduce students to opportunities that are not learned in a traditional classroom setting. Another one of the key drivers in the success of workforce development in the region is the collaboration between parents, teachers, and students.
“The GLOW region has excelled in working with K-12 institutions and educational partners to not only ensure the participation and education of students but families as well,” said GLOW With Your Hands Co-Chair, Angela Grouse. “Our students want to learn about these opportunities; they are engaged and thoughtful in their participation at GLOW With Your Hands. This engagement transforms into meaningful conversations that are had in the classroom and at home.”
Avon High School Senior Kalman Dolgos enjoyed interacting with National Grid’s line truck display, simulating opening and closing a circuit on an electric pole.
“The hands-on demonstrations and interactions are my favorite part about GLOW With Your Hands,” said Dolgos. “The company representatives are very passionate about their careers, and that motivated me to ask questions to learn about companies that I was not familiar with.”
GLOW With Your Hands sponsors and exhibitors were encouraged by interactions with students. At Tambe Electric’s demonstration, students learned how electricians troubleshoot fiber optic internet cables when a cable is disconnected. Tambe Electric Lineman David Battisti said the experience taught students what it is like to be a lineman with Tambe and the role the company performs around the region.
“Our first GLOW With Your Hands event was a major success, interacting with the next generation of workforce candidates allowed Tambe Electric to showcase how we help keep the lights on and ensure you stay connected to Wi-Fi,” stated Battisti. “Students were attentive and engaged in our demonstration. The GLOW region continues to produce the future workforce, which is why we will continue to attend this event and recruit from the region.”
Press Release, Orleans County Department of Social Services
ALBION – The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) season begins this year on Nov. 3, with a tentative end date of April 7, 2026
Applications for HEAP will be available Nov. 3. Applications for an emergency other than your heating source will be accepted beginning Jan. 2, 2026, through April 7, 2026.
If you are applying for the first time, a phone interview is necessary which can be completed beginning on Nov. 3. Applications will be available at the County Office Building in Albion, PathStone, Community Action, or Ministry of Concern; at the Community Center in Holley; or at Lee-Whedon Memorial Library in Medina.
You can apply online for HEAP by visiting www.myBenefits.ny.gov. If you received a benefit through a HEAP case last season you may apply through www.myBenefits.ny.gov or submit your completed application along with necessary documentation to the Department of Social Services, 14016 Rt. 31 W. Albion, NY 14411.
If you are currently a Public Assistance or SNAP recipient, you should automatically receive your HEAP benefit through your case. Please be sure your worker has accurate vendor and account information to prevent a delay with your HEAP grant.
For questions or to set up an appointment call (585) 589-3182. Appointments cannot be made before Nov. 3. If you are aged 60 or older, please call the Office for Aging at 589-3191.
You can find more information about HEAP and other assistance programs by visiting www.myBenefits.ny.gov.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 30 September 2025 at 1:51 pm
Village Board cuts proposed increase to towns by 5 percent
Photos by Jim Scibetta, owner of Helpee Selfee Laundromat, said the increases will have to be passed on to his customers, who he said are already struggling to pay their bills. He is shown addressing village trustees, from left: Joyce Riley, William Gabalski, Greg Bennett and Tim McMurray.
ALBION – The Albion Village Board approved increases in the water rates and administrative costs, changes that will bring in much needed revenue for upgrades to the water treatment plant and distribution system.
Water rates will go up 25 percent for customers in the village and the prisons beginning on Jan. 1, and then will increase another 20 percent beginning Jan. 1, 2027.
“This was not done thoughtlessly,” said Village Trustee Joyce Riley during a public hearing on higher rates. “It’s after years of neglecting our water plant. If this board doesn’t make (the changes), it only gets worse down the road.”
Greg Bennett, the deputy mayor, said the increased rates and fees are needed “for the village to maintain ourself.”
The Village Board was going to charge the towns the same percentage increase, but backed off to a 20 percent increase next year, and then a 15 percent increase. Some of the towns pushed back on the proposed increase, saying it would force them to look closely at possibly switching to the Monroe County Water Authority as a water supplier.
The village bills for about 110 million gallons of water each quarter with approximately 33 million gallons within the village, 63 million for the towns and 15 million used by the two state prisons.
RATE HIKES FOR VILLAGE CUSTOMERS – Residents and businesses inside the village currently pay a $3.90 rate per 1,000 gallons of water. That will go to $4.88 beginning Jan. 1, and then $5.85 beginning in 2027.
The current rate generates $520,048 from customers within the village. That will go to a projected $650,061 next year and then $780,073 in 2027.
ADMINISTRATIVE CHARGE – The board also is raising the quarterly administrative charge by 55 percent the first year for customers within the village, and then another 40 percent in 2027. That will increase the administrative or base charge from the current $33.60 for most village customers to $52.08 beginning Jan. 1, and then $72.91 the following year.
Just the change in the administrative fee will raise nearly $200,000 more in the water fund the first year. The village’s water fund currently receives $359,221 through the base charges. That is projected to go to $556,793 in 2026 and then $779,510 in 2027.
RATE HIKE FOR TOWNS – The towns that buy water directly from the village currently pay a $3.57 rate. There is no administrative charge from the village. The towns add their own administrative charge.
The rate will go to $4.28 next year and then $4.93 in 2027. The towns currently pay the village $894,284 for water, and that is projected to increase to $1,073,141 in 2026 and then $1,234,111 in 2027.
The water tank is shown along Route 31 near the Albion and Orleans correctional facilities. The Village Board last week approved raising the water rates for the two prisons by 25 percent next year, and then another 20 percent in 2027. The water rate for the prisons will go from the current $4.65 per 1,000 gallons to $5.81 and then $6.98.
PRISON RATE – The two state prisons are currently billed at a rate of $4.65 per 1,000 gallons. That will go to $5.81 in 2026 and then $6.98 in 2027.
The prisons currently pay $278,045 for water. That is projected to increase to $347,556 in 2026, and then $417,067 in 2027.
TOTAL REVENUE – The current water fund is on pace to bring in $2,195,250 this year. However, the expenses are at $2,639,864. That will require the village to take $444,614 from the fund balance that is set aside in the water fund. That fund balance is currently at about $700,000.
In 2026, the total revenue goes to $2,635,831, with expenses at $3,021,857. With increased rates and fees next year, plus the start of paying debt for recent water system improvements, the village will still need to use $386,025 in fund balance in 2026.
Beginning in 2027, the rates and fees are projected to cover the total expenses with the water fund, with the revenue $47,749 over expenses. The total revenue is projected at $3,220,699 with expenses at $3,172,950.
The Village Board doesn’t expect a big rate hike will be needed after 2027.
During a public hearing last Wednesday, Jim Scibetta, owner of the Helpee Selfee Laundromat, said the higher water costs come at a time when he’s facing increases in electricity and natural gas.
“You’re proposing this kind of water increase to me is legalized robbery,” he told the board. “I’m disgusted and I will probably sell my laundromat because of you people.”
Village Board members said Albion’s water bills still will be less costly than many other communities in the region.
The average village water customer of about 15,000 gallons per quarter will see their water bills go from $92.10 per quarter in 2025 to $125.21 in 2026 and then $160.66 in 2027.
SEWER BILL – The water bill for village customers also includes the sewer bill. The board last week voted to increase the base charge for sewer customers in the village, while keeping the rate the same at $4.25 per 1,000 gallons.
The base charge will increase from $26 per quarter for most customers to $33.60 per quarter. The higher base rate will raise another $81,086 for the sewer fund, increasing administrative revenue from $273,847 in 2025 to a projected $354,933 in 2026.
That increase in revenue will allow the village to build reserves for the sewer fund, board members said.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 30 September 2025 at 8:30 am
Provided photos: These three were dressed up as characters at Beggar’s Nite last year in Medina. From left include Byron Hill as Colonel Sanders, Joshua Hill as Paw Patrol’s Rubble and Tucker Graton as a dinosaur.
ALBION/MEDINA – The downtowns in Albion and Medina will have hundreds of children in costumes for Beggar’s Nite.
That day is observed the Friday before Halloween. This year, Halloween is on a Friday so Beggar’s Nite will be a week ahead of Oct. 31.
Albion has Beggar’s Nite from 5 to 7 p.m. on Oct. 24, while in Medina the event runs from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Both downtown business districts will likely see several hundred kids dressed as super heroes, goblins and other characters.
Photos courtesy of ReLeaf Medina: West Center Street in Medina is one of several tree-lined streets in the village with recently planted trees getting more mature.
MEDINA – Autumn leaves with rich hues of orange, red and yellow lighting up the landscape bring warm thoughts of hot chocolate, flannel and fall fun.
But for others who are in the business of overseeing municipal trees, thoughts turn to planning for spring planting.
The village of Medina has a Municipal Tree Board and a Forestry Coordinator (all volunteer), as well as well-trained DPW personnel, all of whom play a role in planting and maintaining the village’s “urban forest.”
But there is another vital group that works to support those efforts financially: ReLeaf Medina.
ReLeaf Medina was formed a few years back to raise money for the village to replace dying trees – something the Tree Board is not allowed to do.
According to Medina’s Forestry Coordinator, Chris Busch, the cost of plant material has risen exponentially in the past ten years, costing an average of $3,000-plus more per year.
“From the very beginning, the Mayor and Trustees have absolutely been on board and continue to be fully supportive of Medina’s planting program. We are incredibly grateful for the funds they budget annually given that municipal budgets are very, very tight.” said Busch. “In light of that, we’ve had to be creative with supplemental funding solutions. Thankfully, there are a growing number of citizens who have noticed how amazing our tree-lined streets look and have been happy to support our efforts. Their financial gifts result in a living legacy that will be enjoyed by an entire community for years to come.”
Annually, the Village removes 50-60 trees and replants about 50. Removing dying trees is an unending task and replacing them has become increasingly more costly.
“What used to buy 50 trees now buys 30 or less,” Busch said.
“We continue to plant diversely with a wide variety of trees that are proven urban environments,” said Mary Lewis, Tree Board chair. “We take great care in selecting the right tree for the conditions that exist on any given site. There’s a great deal of urban forestry science that goes into the planning and selection of trees.”
Once again, ReLeaf Medina is asking citizens to contribute to the amazing living legacy of trees by making a monetary gift.
Lewis, a Medina business owner, has also issued an invitation to local businesses to consider becoming a corporate sponsor.
This photo shows trees along Gwinn Street in Medina.
“Several letters were recently sent out to local businesses and we’re hoping they’ll see the benefit of corporate sponsorship,” she said.
ReLeaf Medina states businesses becoming a corporate sponsor not only engage with their employees and investors but also build community through the support of grassroots public environmental stewardship.
“It is a chance to make a tangible difference in a highly visible way that will stand for generations and leave a positive, beneficial living legacy for the future that will be seen every day,” Lewis said.
All gifts to ReLeaf Medina are tax-deductible and can be made in three ways.
As a General Donation, the money helps replace street trees in neighborhoods throughout the village. Suggested amounts are $25 to $199 (Good Citizen); $200 to $299 (Silver); $300 to $499 (Gold); $500 and up (Platinum).
Gifts In Memory cost $300. They will fund trees placed in one of Medina’s six parks and will be identified with a granite marker honoring a loved one or in recognition of the donor’s family or organization. Memorial trees can be located on streets without a granite marker and cost $275.
To designate a tree On Your Street, the cost is $250. If the village determines a tree or trees are needed on that street, the donor may request a specific location.
Checks for tree donations should be made payable to the Orleans Renaissance Group, Inc. – Notation: ‘ReLeaf Medina’ and mailed to PO Box 543, Medina, NY.
“As you walk or drive around our village this fall and you like what you see and how the beautiful canopy makes you feel, please help us continue planting to make Medina an attractive place to live, work and grow,” Lewis said.
Photo courtesy of UConnectCare: John Bennett, former executive director of UConnectCare, and Kathy Hodgins, the current executive director, display the gifts they received in appreciation of their leadership of UConnectCare at the agency’s 50th Anniversary Gala & Silent Auction on Sept. 25 at Terry Hills Restaurant.
BATAVIA – In celebrating 50 years of service to the community, UConnectCare Chief Executive Officer Kathy Hodgins credited past and present employees for striving to “treat people with kindness and dignity.”
The nonprofit substance use treatment, prevention, residential, detox and recovery services agency marked its half-century of operation on Thursday night with a 50th Anniversary Gala & Silent Auction at Terry Hills Restaurant in Batavia.
Until 2023, it was known as Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse.
Hodgins, who began her career at UConnectCare in 2002 as an intern, said many of those who choose this field of work have been affected by drug and/or alcohol use in their families.
“Some are in recovery themselves,” she said to the 90 people at the dinner. “All of us come to work to walk alongside people struggling with substance use disorder. We serve some of the most vulnerable people in our community and we serve them with compassion, respect and dignity.”
Hodgins acknowledged the agency’s leaders who came before her, starting with Robert Hoover in 1975 and continuing with Faith (Cole) Peterson from 1985-88, Sharon McWethy from 1988-2000, David Markham from 2000-2011 and John Bennett from 2011-2025.
UConnectCare was recognized through the presentation of proclamations from Sen. George Borrello, Chad Zambito (representing Assemblyman Steve Hawley) and Gregg Torrey, Genesee County legislator.
“We all know there’s a problem (with addiction), it’s a growing problem. But you lift people up, one at a time, and you help their lives. And that’s a beautiful thing,” Borrello said.
The UConnectCare board of directors presented gifts to Hodgins and Bennett in recognition of their leadership, with Board President Tim Batzel praising Hodgins for building upon the foundation of those before her.
“Kathy brings a deep well of knowledge, experience and unwavering commitment to our mission,” Batzel said. “Her leadership is already shaping the future of UConnectCare in meaningful ways and I’m proud to celebrate this milestone with her at the helm.”
Orleans County Legislature commends UConnectCare for services in community
Photo by Tom Rivers: Kathy Hodgins, executive director of UConnectCare, accepts a proclamation from the Orleans County Legislature last week, celebrating the agency’s 50th anniversary. Barb Koert, outpatient treatment director, is at left. County Legislator Ed Morgan is shown in back.
UConnectCare, formerly the Genesee-Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance, started in Batavia in 1975. GCASA opened a site in Albion in 1999, offering prevention and treatment services.
“Your ability to progress with the needs of our community members needing assistance in Orleans County will forever be widespread, long-lasting and extremely appreciated,” legislators stated in the proclamation. “The Orleans County Legislature does hereby also commend you for your dedication to the Orleans County residents.”
Provided photo: Sean Gaskell will perform with the West African Kora on Oct. 9 at Lee-Whedon Memorial Library in Medina.
Press Release, Lee-Whedon Memorial Library
MEDINA – West Coast musician, Sean Gaskell, will be performing at the Lee-Whedon Memorial Library October 9th at 7 p.m.
The concert will feature songs played on the kora—a 21-stringed West African harp. Alongside Gaskell’s musical performance, audience members will learn about the history of the kora, how it is built, who typically plays it, and the types of events it is often utilized at.
In addition, Sean will also share some of his own personal experiences while studying in West Africa and being hosted by the family of his teachers.
Gaskell studied under the extensive instruction of Moriba Kuyateh and the late Malamini Jobarteh in Gambia, and both Youssoupha Cissokho and Mamadou Cissokho in Senegal.
The kora is traditionally played by oral historians known as Griots. Many songs featured on the kora preserve an 800 year history dating back to the founding of the Mande empire. Gaskell has presented adult, youth, and family programs at over 400 libraries and a multitude of k-12 schools, colleges, universities and assisted living facilities throughout the United States and Canada. This visit from Gaskell is a rare opportunity to listen to a unique and truly beautiful instrument.
Further information on the artist can be found at his website: www.seangaskell.com.
To register for this free event, call 585-798-3430 or visit the library front desk. All ages are welcome.
File photo by Tom Rivers: “Swoop” gets the ball spinning for a young fan when the Harlem Wizards visited Albion in October 2019. Swoop joined the Wizards in 2007. Prior to that, he was a showman with the Harlem Globetrotters.
Press Release, Albion Central School
ALBION – The Harlem Wizards are coming to Albion’s Charles D’Amico High School gymnasium on Monday, Oct. 27, at 7 p.m.
The Albion Basketball Boosters invites the community out for a fun-filled, interactive evening of tricks, hoops and alley-oops. The Wizards were in Albion most recently in October 2019.
Albion teachers will face off on the court against the world-famous Wizards where there will be plenty of laughs, music, dancing and dunks. Partial proceeds will benefit the Albion Basketball Booster Club which supports the Albion basketball teams.
“We are so thrilled to bring this event back to our community,” said Jeff Radder, Albion boys JV basketball coach and Basketball Boosters member. “We hope our community will consider bringing their friends and families out to experience the incredible show the Wizards put on. It is always a night to remember and our basketball teams truly appreciate the support.”
Tickets can be purchased on the Albion website. More information about the Harlem Wizards can be found on their website.
