Looking down on Wrigley Field and the Chicago skyline from the press box level – play ball!
I am not a fan of big cities. But, there are a few that I’ve always had an interest in visiting. Chicago was one of them – it was actually on my bucket list. Well, I got to go the week of July 26-31. Some friends were going to visit a family member who lives there and they let me tag along. It was a great experience and one I happily checked off my list. We crammed a lot into the six day trip – it was rough on these old bones of mine, but we did it and saw as much of the city and key points of interest as we could.
Three of us stayed in an Airbnb condo and one stayed with the family member we were visiting. This was my first time using Airbnb. At first it was a bit frustrating – the first place we booked was through Vrbo and it was canceled on us. So, we started our search, again, and found an Airbnb. Unfortunately, that, too, was canceled on us. Both times, we got all our money back, but it still made us cautious about trying again. Third time was the charm, though – we found a condo a block from Wrigley Field in the neighborhood of Wrigleyville and just a few blocks from where our family member’s apartment was with a bus stop right at the corner of the block – perfect location! Even with the cancelations, I’d do Airbnb/Vrbo again if the situation was right for it.
Getting around Chicago was easy. We didn’t get a rental car and I would absolutely recommend you not bother with one for this city. The public transportation and availability of Ubers made anything we wanted to do easily accessible. We got a 7-day pass for the city transit system (buses) – $20 for unlimited use – and used Ubers when warranted. We also booked a 48 hour hop-on-hop-off tour, so we used that for our transportation for some of the main downtown sights. With all that at our beck and call, why pay for a car rental and all the city parking hassles and fees?
Chicago’s architecture is spectacular. We were amazed by all the different designs of the buildings – definitely not a “cookie cutter” city!
As for sightseeing, I think we did good! We saw the city from the top of a double decker open top bus – the architecture was spectacular! Most big cities all look the same to me, but Chicago definitely has a unique feel and the building designs varied greatly – definitely not a “cookie cutter” city! We ate at some good restaurants – I had a Chicago hotdog and really liked it even with all the odd stuff they put on it! We hopped off at the marker for the start of historic Route 66, Millenium Park, Grant Park, the castle-like structures of the historic water tower and pumping station built in 1869, and saw great views of Lake Michigan, the Chicago River, and the city of Chicago in general.
We booked a river cruise – one that focused on the architecture and history of the city. It was a 90-minute cruise down all three branches of the beautiful Chicago River while a wonderful docent talked about all of the buildings and their history. It was incredible and a “must do” if you find yourself in Chicago with time to do something like that. I highly recommend it – if you can only do one thing, do that!
The Chicago River is an integral part of the City of Chicago with a River Walk and boat tours. A “must do” if you’re in Chicago is the Chicago River Architecture Cruise!
I had hoped that the Cubs would be in town so I could go to a game, but they were away. So, we did the next best thing that actually ended up being even better than just going to a game – we took a guided tour of Wrigley Field. WOW! Just being in a major league ball park is a thrill – especially one this historic. We got to learn all about the history of the ball park and the Cubs. The tour took us into the stands, down on the sidelines of the field, a photo op with the famous ivy wall, up to the press box, and into the visitor’s clubhouse and dugout (there was a camp there that weekend and they were using the Cub’s clubhouse and dugout, so we couldn’t go in there). It was one of my highlights of the trip – if you have a chance to do this tour, do it! (But….don’t worry, I’m still a Yankees fan, even though the tour guide said we were all now honorary Cubs fans – haha)
We visited the famous “bean” – a sculpture that is actually called “Cloud Gate” in Millenium Park. That was cool! We also spent some time at the Navy Pier. While the others were inside shopping, I went out to ride the Centennial Wheel – a huge ferris wheel that overlooks Lake Michigan and the city. That was fun and the views from up there were awesome. And, we went to the top of Willis Tower – formerly known as Sears Tower – the tallest building in Chicago. I stepped out onto the “Ledge” – a glass enclosed balcony of sorts that sticks out from the 103rd floor with a glass floor looking down something like 1400 feet! I had to force myself to step out onto that glass floor, but I did it and I’m so glad I did! The sun was setting and the views were incredible!
The view of Chicago from the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower – formerly known as Sears Tower – at sunset.
My favorite place to eat was a fabulous super trendy upscale food court called “Time Out Market – Chicago” located in the Fulton Market. It is a huge place with communal seating and lots of different “kitchens” all around the perimeter. The food was awesome and the atmosphere was fun. I absolutely recommend you go there if in Chicago – you won’t regret it!
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 19 August 2023 at 9:14 am
There will be lots of sunshine this weekend in Orleans County.
Today is forecast to be sunny with a high of 75 followed by a mostly sunny Sunday with a high of 83, according to the National Weather Service in Buffalo.
The forecast then calls for a high near 78 and mostly cloudy on Monday, then partly sunny on Tuesday with a high near 76.
On Wednesday, the forecast is mostly sunny with a high near 77, followed by partly sunny with a high near 81 on Thursday.
A boater on the Cayuga enjoys the leisurely ride on the Erie Canal on Thursday.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 19 August 2023 at 8:56 am
Photos by Ginny Kropf: The grand opening of Carquest in Medina was celebrated with a ribbon cutting Friday morning. From left are Dave Gagne, president of Orleans County Chamber of Commerce; Jay Bridges, independent sales director for Carquest in Michigan; Arnold Huth, counter man; store owner Joe Kauffman of Middleport with daughter Emma, 8; Larry Schlossin, account executive for Carquest in Buffalo; Assemblyman Steve Hawley; John Belson, driver; and Darlene Hartway, director of Orleans County Chamber of Commerce.
MEDINA – Opening his own store has become a reality for Joseph Kauffman of Middleport, who celebrated the grand opening of Carquest on Friday morning.
Kauffman had been working as parts man for Orleans Ford, but always wanted to be in business for himself. When the old Carquest moved out of Medina, he saw an opportunity.
Joe Kauffman (right), owner of a new Carquest store in Medina, is congratulated by Assemblyman Steve Hawley on the new store in Medina.
He contacted Larry Schlossin, account executive for Carquest in Buffalo, and soon plans were in the works for a new store in Medina. He opened the doors March 13, but waited for the official ribbon cutting until all his signs and inventory were in place. The new store is located at 11270 Maple Ridge Rd., between Rent-A-Center and Valu.
Friday morning, Kauffman was joined by staff and Carquest personnel to cut the ribbon at his new business. Among the guests was Assemblyman Steve Hawley, who presented Kauffman with a proclamation congratulating him on his new venture.
“We are here to support him,” Schlossin said.
Kauffman is joined by counter man, Arnold Huth and two drivers, John Belson and Kenneth Flickner.
Kauffman’s dad, Kurt Kauffman said he expects to lend a hand part time after he retires from Mullane Motors, where he has been a mechanic for more than 40 years.
Carquest is a full-fledged parts store, serving the automotive industry – from heavy duty truck parts and cleaning supplies to hydraulic hoses, tools and shop equipment.
Hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.
For information, their phone number is (585) 318-4528.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 18 August 2023 at 1:19 pm
ALBION – Orleans County is $2 million closer to building a new emergency operations center. The county needs about $10 million more to replace a bunker-style civil defense center on West Countyhouse Road.
U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand met with county officials today to present a ceremonial check for $2 million. That is the maximum in federal aid the county could receive for the project, said Justin Niederhofer, the county’s emergency management director.
The county also has applied for a $2.4 million state grant and is awaiting whether that will be approved. There isn’t a set timetable on when the new building will be constructed. The funding secured by Gillibrand needs to be spent by the end of 2025.
The emergency management office was built as early 1960s bomb shelter. It has a leaking roof and a shortage of space.
The current building is 8,000 square feet – 80 by 100 feet. Most of the structure is underground. It isn’t handicapped accessible and doesn’t have enough space for the emergency management office, Niederhofer said.
The new building is planned to be about 17,000 feet. That includes about 11,000 square feet for offices and classrooms, and another 5,600 square feet for equipment storage.
The county’s backup dispatcher center would be there, as well as training space for firefighters and other first responders. There are three full-time employees that work out of the building. There is also space for ham operators to operate if the communications systems totally fail.
“The new facility will be ADA compliant, appropriately sized to accommodate all needed staff, support equipment and allow for the emergency operations center to be at a ready state,” Niederhofer said. “It will ensure the EOC can be operational in minutes versus hours, while simultaneously utilizing the backup dispatch and the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service, which provides back up communication capabilities during disasters.”
Kirsten Gillibrand greets firefighters and first responders, including Scott Buffin, the assistant EMO director for the county.
Gillibrand said the federal funding will assist Orleans in having a modern facility where first responders can plan and be quickly deployed to help residents in all kind of emergencies.
The $12 million preliminary price for the new project includes taking down two radio towers – one is 485 feet tall and the other is 225 feet – and replacing them with one tower that would be about 300 feet high.
The initial civil defense center cost $107,000 to build, County Legislature Chairwoman Lynne Johnson said.
Construction costs have dramatically risen since then, especially since the Covid pandemic.
Johnson said the county “is in desperate need of an upgrade” at the site. She thanked Gillibrand for advocating for the county to be awarded the federal funding.
“Through Sen. Gillibrand’s unyielding dedication to public safety, and her genuine compassion for the people she serves, she has secured $2 million to help us build a brand-new Emergency Management Office,” Johnson said.
U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand gets a tour of the current emergency management office, which was built as an underground bunker.
Justin Niederhofer, right, said the site is too small for many training classes and programs, as well as other services and storage needs for the emergency management office.
A preliminary site plan by LaBella Associates puts the new building next to the current structure. It would be west of the current building and would include parking.
County officials are expected to seek more detailed designs from LaBella as the project moves forward.
Kirsten Gillibrand meets long-time ham radio operators Bruce Sidari, center, and Terry Cook. They both said they welcome a more modern facility.
Press Release, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer’s Office
Photo by Tom Rivers – This photo from October 2015 shows apples at an Albion orchard. Orleans County is one of the leading apple-growing counties in the state, behind only Wayne and Ulster counties.
Following their repeated calls earlier this year, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved the New York State Farm Service Agency’s request for a federal Agricultural Disaster Designation following this past May’s deep freeze that destroyed thousands of acres of crops for 31 counties across Upstate New York.
Schumer personally called USDA Secretary Vilsack to advocate on New York’s behalf, and working with Senator Gillibrand fought to deliver the disaster designation for NY. The senators said Upstate NY suffered major crop damage from the extreme cold weather this past May, destroying grapes, apples, strawberries, blueberries, and other crops vital to the Upstate NY economy, and that with harvest season just beginning, this relief will be critical to supporting impacted farmers on the long road to recovery.
The Secretarial disaster designation has officially been approved for 31 counties including Albany, Broome, Cattaraugus, Cayuga, Chautauqua, Chemung, Columbia, Cortland, Dutchess, Greene, Jefferson, Onondaga, Ontario, Orleans, Oswego, Otsego, Putnam, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Tioga, Tompkins, Ulster, Washington, Wayne and Westchester and Yates.
The senators also said that an additional 24 counties across Upstate NY have been designated by the USDA as contiguous disaster counties including: Allegany, Fulton, Madison, Orange, Bronx, Genesee, Monroe, Rockland, Chenango, Hamilton, Montgomery, St. Lawrence, Delaware, Herkimer, Nassau, Sullivan, Erie, Lewis, Niagara, Warren, Essex, Livingston, Oneida, and Wyoming.
“From the vineyards of the Finger Lakes to the orchards of the Capital Region, family-owned farms are the backbone of Upstate New York’s agriculture economy,” Schumer said. “But this past May they suffered from one of the most devastating deep freezes in recent memory, destroying thousands of acres of crops.”
A Secretarial disaster designation makes farm operators in primary counties and counties contiguous eligible to be considered for critical low-interest FSA Emergency Loans. Impacted NY producers will be able to borrow up to 100 percent of the actual amount of production or physical losses to a maximum amount of $500,000.
According to the USDA, emergency loan funds may be used to: restore or replace essential property, pay all or part of production costs associated with the disaster year, pay essential family living expenses, or reorganize the farming. Farmers in eligible counties have 8 months from the date of a Secretarial disaster declaration to apply for emergency loans. Local FSA offices can provide affected farmers with further information.
“This past May’s deep freeze destroyed thousands upon thousands of acres of crops, threatening the livelihoods of farmers and their communities,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This designation unlocks emergency relief funds for farm operators in eligible counties and my message to farmers is this: apply for this relief quickly and my office is here to support you.”
The severe cold temperature and frost in May resulted in significant crop losses for several types of fruit, including grapes, apples, strawberries, peaches, pears, plums, blueberries, apricots, cherries, and caneberries across the state and flower and hay damage in certain areas. According to the National Weather Service, New York had multiple dates where the temperature dropped below freezing between May 14 and May 25, but the time period that caused the most widespread damage happened overnight from May 17 to May 18.
These freezing temperatures caused severe frost damage to multiple crops across the majority of the state. However, Schumer said that grapes and apples were hit especially hard, with vineyards across New York reporting losses ranging from 5 to 100 percent.
According to Empire State Development, New York State is the third-largest producer of grapes, grape juice and wine in the United States. In addition, the state is the second-largest producer of apples in the country. These crops make a significant contribution to the state’s agricultural economy and support many local businesses and jobs, employing close to 100,000 New Yorkers and producing $11.5 billion worth of economic impact annually.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 18 August 2023 at 8:51 am
LYNDONVILLE – The school district will be making free breakfasts and lunches available to all students this school year.
The district was accepted by the state Department of Education to be included in the Community Eligibility Provision of the National School Breakfast/Lunch Program. Lyndonville started offering the free breakfasts and lunches this summer and has served about 2,000 meals.
“That we can feed every child two meals a day that really helps our families,” said Sharon Smith, the district superintendent.
There are about 600 students in the Lyndonville district, including those in prekindergarten.
Lyndonville school officials and the Board of Education decided to apply for the program last school year, and expected Lyndonville would have to pay about $14,000.
But the state will cover the district’s share, so there won’t be any local cost for providing the meals.
To qualify for the program, a district or school building must have an Identified Student Percent (ISP) of at least 40 percent. Lyndonville is at 42 percent, Smith said. She added that 58 percent of the student body is in poverty.
The ISP isn’t determined by student eligible for free and reduced lunch. Instead it depends on SNAP and Medicaid recipients identified through the electronic direct certification matching process (DCMP) and extension of these eligibility benefits to siblings or other household members not matched. It also includes homeless children identified by the homeless liaison, Head Start students, migrant, runaway and foster children certified directly by the state or local foster agency.
Lyndonville families don’t need to register to have access to the meals, Smith said.
The Board of Education on Thursday extended its food service contract with Personal Touch Food Service, Inc. in Buffalo, increasing the amount by 3.5 percent.
The cost for breakfast will increase from $3.0640 to $3.1712 per meal, and lunch will go up from $3.5810 to $3.7063.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 18 August 2023 at 7:53 am
‘Sonny’ Dent and Gary Wakefield praised for their service
Photo by Tom Rivers
LYNDONVILLE – Gary “Sonny” Dent, left, and Gary Wakefield celebrate their retirements from Lyndonville Central School on Thursday evening.
They were recognized during the Board of Education meeting, which they had a recess for a reception for the two retirees.
Dent worked for the district for 20 years with the first 15 as a groundskeeper and the past 5 years in maintenance.
“I enjoyed everything about the job,” Dent said. “I loved the kids, and the challenges.”
He said the school district is like a family. He was grateful to be a part of it for two decades.
Dent was praised by Sharon Smith, the district superintendent.
“This place worked because of you, Sonny,” she said. “Everyone here knows it. We are eternally indebted to you.”
Board of Education member Harold Suhr said Dent is “a diamond in the rough” with great character.
“He can do anything and everything, and do it with nothing,” Suhr said. “He’s done a great job. You can’t replace him.”
Wakefield worked 23 years as a custodian for the district. He said he is very thankful for a career in a school setting.
“You see the kids everyday with their smiling faces,” he said. “I made a lot of friends with the teachers.”
Wakefield battled cancer seven years ago and he said the teachers showed him great kindness which helped him get through that health challenge.
Smith said Wakefield greets everyone with a smile and is a big part while the school looks so good.
“He is one of kindest, most thoughtful guys I’ve ever met,” Suhr said during the board meeting. “Gary, your heart is bigger than this entire school building.”
ELBA — Come down to Arc GLOW’s Day Habilitation Center in Elba to walk, run, skip or jump to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities for the 19th annual Friends & Family 5K and Fun Walk on Sept. 16.
It is an event which gives people of all ages and skill levels an opportunity to participate. It also welcomes and embraces the participation of the people Arc GLOW serves, aligning with their mission to support people with disabilities in partnership with their families and community.
These runners and walkers are shown at last year’s Friends & Family 5K shirt.
Taste of Country, the signature event within the Friends and Family 5K, features a wonderful display of fruits and vegetables donated by area farmers. Runners, walkers, sponsors and volunteers each have the opportunity to take some home with them.
Arc GLOW expects over 300 runners and walkers this year. The event’s post party features live music by The Buffalo Road Show with Jim and Babe Catino, kid’s activities, food, beverages and award ceremony.
The Friends and Family 5K began as a memorial to Mary Anne Graney, a parent, educator, advocate and friend to Arc GLOW who died in 2004. Her dedication to people with IDD and their families enriches countless lives. The Bluebonnet sponsorship is in honor of Graney’s Texas roots.
The Graney family is pleased funds raised in this event help support education through the Mary Anne Graney Memorial Scholarship program, which is presented to area high school seniors planning to further their studies in human services, special education or related fields. The money also goes toward helping fund various programs and services Arc GLOW offers for individuals with IDD.
In 2017, the Friends and Family 5K combined forces with the former 5K held in memory of Arc staff member Terri Carr Krieger. Krieger was a longtime employee who lost her battle with cancer in 1997. The Blue Spruce sponsor level is in Krieger’s honor.
Finally, for many years the Livingston-Wyoming 5K was held in memory of Dr. Ramon M. Rocha. He passionately believed in the possibilities of life, and has been an endless source of inspiration for people of all ages and abilities.
A beloved family man and enthusiastic volunteer, the Blue Knight sponsorship connects Dr. Rocha to SUNY Geneseo where he was a respected professor.
The Friends & Family 5K will take place Sept. 16 where check in begins at 8:45 a.m. and the race beings at 10 a.m. Race t-shirts will be guaranteed for all participants who register by Sept. 7 and until quantities last for walk-ins. It will be held at the Arc Day Habilitation Center, located at 4603 Barrville Road in Elba.
For anyone who wishes to sponsor the 5K, contact Sandy Konfederath at (585) 343-1123 ext. 1715 or skonfederath@arcglow.org by Aug. 21.
Walkers and runners wishing to register can do so online at ArcGLOW.org or by contacting Konfederath.
Today, Congressman Joe Morelle (D-NY), Brian Higgins (D-NY), Nick Langworthy (R-NY), Marc Molinaro (R-NY), Claudia Tenney (R-NY), and Brandon Williams (R-NY) announced their bipartisan support for the New York Semiconductor Manufacturing and Research Technology Innovation Corridor (NY SMART I-Corridor) application for the Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs (Tech Hubs) Program.
The bipartisan group of New York members saw the opportunity to build on the strengths of their unique communities, collaborate across specialized industries and reinvigorate economic growth for years to come. Following enormous community effort and collaboration from their universities, field experts, and local and federal advocates, the NY SMART I-Corridor application offers a promising future for the Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse region.
“For generations, Rochester has been synonymous with innovation, and it has long been my priority in Congress to launch our next chapter of growth and prosperity with Tech Hub designation,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “Federal investment in local innovation will build on the strengths of our unique communities and catalyze the growth of our domestic semiconductor industry benefitting all Americans. I’m grateful for the bipartisan support of my colleagues from the New York delegation and look forward to our work together reinvigorating the Finger Lakes region for the next generation.”
Enacted as part of the CHIPS and Science Act, and modeled after Congressman Morelle’s Innovation Centers Acceleration Act first introduced in 2020, the Tech Hub program will invest in U.S. regions focused on key technologies, including semiconductor research and advanced manufacturing, to strengthen our domestic supply chain and reinvigorate regional economies.
The Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse region is uniquely poised to excel in semiconductor production due to a highly trained workforce, world-class universities, and extensive manufacturing infrastructure. MIT economists Jonathan Gruber and Simon Johnson identified 100 cities as prime candidates for economic growth through targeted federal investment. On that list, Rochester is ranked number one, Syracuse number three, and Buffalo number fifteen.
The promising NY SMART I-Corridor proposal is the first step in a two-phase application process for federal investment via the Tech Hub program. Successful applicants will receive Tech Hub designation, which is key for Phase 2 federal investment opportunities.
“Over the past few years we have seen how our reliance on foreign countries for semiconductors can cause shortages, economic harm, and the undermining of our national security,” said Congresswoman Claudia Tenney. “Designating Western New York as a Tech Hub will help make our national supply chains more secure and self-reliant while bringing jobs to Upstate and Western New York. Home of the industrial revolution, with this federal investment, our community can continue to be a source of technological innovation and advancement. I am honored to join a bipartisan group of New York legislators as we work to boost innovation, support our local economy, and create opportunities for our businesses to thrive.”
ROCHESTER – Regional Transit Service (RTS) is looking to improve its transit services in Genesee, Livingston, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne, and Wyoming counties.
Building on the success of updated transit services in Monroe County and the City of Rochester, this study is expanding focus to rural areas to complete region-wide transit improvements. This project will examine the service needs in these seven counties, with the goal of the study focused on identifying opportunities for on-demand, technology-driven, point-to-point transit services as an option for residents of the study area.
RTS wants to make it easier for customers to get around rural areas, and on-demand transit could be a promising solution. On-demand transit is a ride-sharing mobility option in which ADA-accessible vehicles provide service within specific geographic areas. Customers can request rides by calling, using an app, or a website.
Public input is critical to the success of the study. Residents, business representatives, and other community members are encouraged to visit the study website (click here) from Aug. 14 to Sept. 11 to fill out the survey.
About RTS
Regional Transit Service (RTS) is a regional transit authority established by New York State with more than 900 employees who proudly serve customers and business partners in Monroe, Genesee, Livingston, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne, and Wyoming counties. Recognized as one of the best-run transit systems in the nation, RTS provides vital, safe, and sustainable transportation services to more than 9 million people each year. We carry out our mission by connecting our customers to jobs, school, healthcare, shopping and recreational activities every day.
Federal designation would ‘supercharge’ investment in upstate
Press Release, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer
After years of relentless advocacy to bolster Upstate NY’s innovation and manufacturing industries, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer announced the Rochester-Buffalo-Syracuse region have joined forces with a proposal to become a federally-designated Tech Hub in the first-of-its-kind nationwide competition created in his CHIPS & Science Bill.
Photo by Tom Rivers: U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer speaks in Albion on Aug. 1 when he highlighted an effort to stop the flow of fentanyl into the U.S. from China and Mexico.
The proposal, entitled the New York Semiconductor Manufacturing and Research Technology Innovation Corridor Consortium (NY SMART I-Corridor), would build on the historic investments Schumer delivered that have spurred a boom in semiconductor manufacturing and innovation investments in Upstate NY.
The three-region proposal would use targeted federal assistance to help attract new companies, strengthen domestic supply chains, launch startups & support innovation, expand workforce training, connect underserved communities to good-paying jobs, and revive this critical industry integral to America’s national security and economic competitiveness.
Schumer has personally written to Commerce Secretary Raimondo on behalf of Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse, making the case that their proposal is best suited to help drive forward stronger semiconductor and broader microelectronics industries for the entire nation.
“From Rochester to Buffalo to Syracuse the I-90 corridor has everything it takes to become America’s semiconductor superhighway,” Schumer said. “The NY SMART I-Corridor Tech Hubs proposal would tap into Upstate NY’s booming microchip industry, training our workforce for tens of thousands of good-paying jobs and supercharging R&D, all while helping attract new major employers in supply chain industries and bringing manufacturing in this critical industry back to America.”
Schumer said the Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse corridor is uniquely positioned to rapidly address vulnerabilities in American semiconductor manufacturing, with the region having undergone a significant transformation in recent years to become a growing center for innovation and high-tech manufacturing. In fact, Rochester, Syracuse and Buffalo respectively have been validated as the #1, #3, and #15-ranked metro areas in Jump Starting America’s Tech Hub Index System as the region’s best poised to become new Tech-Economy hubs if provided federal investment.
Schumer has been preparing Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse for this opportunity, working relentlessly to boost Upstate New York as a global tech leader. Schumer’s advocacy has resulted in billions in proposed investments from the semiconductor industry spurred by his Chips & Science Bill.
In the Syracuse region alone, Micron has announced an historic $100 billion investment to build a cutting-edge memory fab expected to create nearly 50,000 jobs. In Western NY at the STAMP site in Genesee County, Edwards Vacuum will invest $300+ million to build a 600 job U.S. dry pump manufacturing facility to supply the semiconductor industry.
With Schumer’s direct advocacy, Buffalo has already received $25 million for its growing tech industry through the American Recue Plan’s Build Back Better Challenge, laying the foundation for the Tech Hub designation they are applying for today. In the Rochester region, Corning Incorporated, which manufactures glass critical to the microchip industry, has already invested $139 million in Monroe County – creating over 270 new, good-paying jobs in the Finger Lakes region.
“Each city has superb academic centers and each brings with it a unique set of assets with Micron’s historic investment in Central NY, Rochester as one of the leading centers in research & innovation, and Buffalo as one of the great manufacturing powerhouses that built America in the last century and is primed to do the same this century,” Schumer said. “Together they are a killer combination that can make Upstate NY a global leader for semiconductors with targeted federal investment from the Tech Hubs program.”
Specifically, the NY SMART I-Corridor Tech Hub proposal seeks to propel the Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse corridor by attracting new suppliers to the region, including onshoring companies from overseas, advancing research & development programs for the semiconductor industry, training the next generation of Upstate New York’s manufacturing workforce, and specifically helping ensure that underserved populations are connected to the tens thousands of good-paying jobs expected to be created in this growing industry in the region.
Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Bob Duffy said, “The Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse region contains semiconductor and advanced manufacturing resources, talent, and scientific capabilities that rival any other in the United States – all within an easy two-and-a-half-hour drive. The NY SMART I-Corridor represents an incredible opportunity to further strengthen the collaboration between these three metro areas, creating a hub for advancement of industry-shaping semiconductor technology, enhanced national security, and a transformed Upstate New York economy.”
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 17 August 2023 at 7:50 am
Wilson, a Medina native and television host for Channel 7 in Buffalo, is a breast cancer survivor
Provided photo: Mercedes Wilson, author, host of 7Life with WKBW Channel 7 and breast cancer survivor, will be the guest speaker at Orleans Community Health’s For Women Only, scheduled Oct. 5 at White Birch in Lyndonville.
MEDINA – Orleans Community Health is excited to announce the return of For Women Only, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Oct. 5 at White Birch in Lyndonville.
For Women Only was an annual event which always sold out until Covid forced its cancellation in 2020, according to Scott Robinson, director of marketing, communications and outreach for Orleans Community Health.
In addition to raising funds, the event also provided educational information to attendees and entertainment.
“Everyone knows someone who has had their lives affected by cancer,” Robinson said. “Bringing back For Women Only allows us to bring survivors, fighters and supporters together for an evening of stories, information and uplifting times.”
When Covid forced a change in plans in 2020, several tickets and sponsorships were sold, Robinson said. These will all be honored in October. Anyone who believes they had already purchased tickets should contact Lori Condo at (585) 798-8422 and she will confirm the purchase and reservation. Contact with Condo is necessary to confirm the reservation.
Tickets for a new reservation are $30 and can be purchased by contacting Lori Condo.
Guest speaker for the evening will be Mercedes Wilson, mother of four, an author, advocate, host of 7Life with WKBW Channel 7 and entrepreneur. She also is a 2000 Medina High School graduate.
She will share her story of being diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer, which changed everything, she said. From that battle she formed For Our Daughters, a non-profit geared at teaching youth how to advocate for their health and wellness. The organization served young women across Western New York.
Wilson is the host of a new digital platform for Channel 7 called “7Life,” which highlights all of the great people and places in the area. While doing a segment for AM Buffalo, she discovered a dish that her late grandmother used to make called “Cha-Cha.” Her family and friends loved it so much that she kept making it and it is now sold in more than 100 grocery stores across Upstate New York.
In addition to Wilson, other speakers will share information about services available in Orleans County and some will share their personal experiences.
“While we’re using the October date to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we want to stress that this is an event for all,” Robinson said. “In addition to basket raffles and other returning highlights, we’re also adding an opportunity to have loved ones included in a slide show that honors those we’ve lost, current fighters and survivors. As always, funds raised during this event will go toward cancer services in Orleans.”
Anyone interested in participating in the event or donating a basket should contact Robinson at srobinson@medinamemorial.org.
Governor Kathy Hochul previewed a year-long celebration of the centennial anniversary of the founding of New York’s statewide park and historic site system to take place in 2024.
The celebration will both highlight and build upon one of New York State’s greatest environmental legacies. In 1924, Governor Alfred E. Smith and the State Legislature created the New York State Council of Parks while voters approved a $15 million bond act to build and enlarge a network of State parks, forging the New York State park and historic site system that New York State residents and visitors know and cherish today.
“New York State led the nation in creating a State park system for our citizens 100 years ago,” Governor Hochul said. “As we celebrate through next year, New York will continue to invest in our park system to support the State’s outdoor recreation economy, expand access to underserved communities, address the impacts of climate change, and position New York State as a top recreation destination.”
Across the state through 2024, New York will commemorate the state park centennial with hundreds of community celebrations, performances and special events led by the state park and historic site staff, the State Council of Parks and Park and Historic Site Friends Groups. There will be a new Centennial Challenge to encourage visitors to try a variety of new activities as they enjoy the parks and historic sites, special discounts on park admission fees and new opportunities to volunteer and promote park stewardship.
A traveling exhibit on the history of New York State Parks will go on display at parks and historic sites throughout the state. State Parks will collect and share stories and photographs from the public to celebrate the memories made during the last century, as well as a new line of Centennial-themed New York State Parks merchandise from the parks store. New Yorkers can visit parks.ny.gov/100 to learn more about the Centennial.
While New York State had established a number of state parks and historic sites prior to 1924 to protect scenic and historic resources – such as Niagara Falls, George Washington’s Revolutionary War Headquarters, and Bear Mountain – the State Park Act was intended to directly connect citizens to outdoor recreation.
When these limited preserves proved to be overwhelmingly popular, state leaders recognized the need to create more parks in proximity to urban centers. In 1923, Governor Alfred E. Smith endorsed an ambitious plan for a statewide system of parks connected by scenic parkways and boulevards. In 1924, New York State established the State Council of Parks and voters approved a $15 million bond to put the plan in action. Over the next decade, 55 new state parks were established.
In addition, New York State will prioritize investments and programs to preserve the park system as a model for the nation in the next century by:
Restoring and expanding visitor capacity: State Parks will continue the ongoing transformation of New York’s flagship parks and embark on critical infrastructure improvement projects. The state budget includes $200 million for capital improvement projects annually for five years, for a total of $1 billion through fiscal year 2028. The funding will help improve parks and restore facilities at such heavily visited parks as Bear Mountain, Heckscher, Jones Beach, and Riverbank State Park.
Reaching new and underserved audiences: The State Park Centennial is an opportunity to expand and improve access and connections to all communities and to all people, regardless of background or physical ability. State Parks will expand its Ladders to the Outdoors program statewide, enhancing the Connect Kids field trip program. The continuing Our Whole History initiative will more fully tell the story of the diversity of our state.
Facing forward into climate change: In the next century, State Parks must address the challenges of ongoing, human-induced climate change. State Parks will meet Governor Hochul’s goal to power all facilities with renewable energy by 2030, while making park facilities more resilient to climate change and sea level rise.
Positioning New York as a recreation destination: Over the last century, State Parks have hosted visitors from around the world, including a record 79.5 million visitors in 2022. The park system is an anchor of local tourism economies and offers affordable destinations for recreational and cultural experiences for New York families. The Centennial will offer opportunities to welcome these visitors and play a positive role in local economies, including the opening of the Ralph Wilson Visitor Center at Niagara Falls, the Frederic Church Center for Art and Landscape at Olana State Historic Site and a new Visitor Center at Bayard Cutting Arboretum, as well as new trails connecting parks to their communities.
Strengthening community partnerships: The agency will work with partners to issue centennial reports on the status of parks, demographic trends and goals to ignite support for the state park system among a new generation of patrons.
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said, “I am reminded every day of the immense pride and enjoyment New Yorkers take in the park and historic site system. We look forward to celebrating 100 years of connections between New York State Parks and Historic Sites, their communities and their partners – and laying the foundation for a vibrant, welcoming and sustainable park system for the next century.”
ROCHESTER – Regional Transit Service (RTS) is looking to improve its transit services in Genesee, Livingston, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne, and Wyoming counties.
