BARRE – Over $54 million in new revenue will be generated for the Town of Barre, Orleans County, and local school districts under the terms of two agreements approved this month between local jurisdictions and Heritage Wind.
On October 13, the Barre Town Board voted to approve a Host Community Agreement (HCA) with Heritage Wind that will bring more than $40 million in new revenue to the community over the next 25 years. Payments will increase annually from $1.2 million in the first year of operation to $2.1 million by year 25. These annual payments are based on the installed nameplate capacity in megawatts of the turbine model, resulting in stable, guaranteed payments each year that increase over time.
The Town of Barre collected just under $1.2 million in total property taxes in 2021, meaning the Heritage Wind HCA will effectively double the town’s annual collections, providing much-needed revenue to invest in local priorities, including property tax relief.
In addition to new revenue for the Town of Barre, the project will benefit local schools and county services through a Payment-in-Lieu-of-Taxes (PILOT) agreement. On October 8, the County of Orleans Industrial Development Agency (COIDA) unanimously approved an inducement resolution to enter into a PILOT agreement. Under the agreement, Heritage Wind will pay $13.5 million to Orleans County and local school districts over the next 25 years. That revenue would be allocated as follows:
$6.7 million to Orleans County
$6.6 million to Albion Central School
$200,000 to Oakfield-Alabama Central School
Annual payments for both the PILOT and HCA increase by 2% each year for the first 15 years and by 2.5% annually from years 15-25. Payment amounts are based on a nameplate installed capacity of 184.8 megawatt (MW).
Now that local governments have approved the project’s community benefit agreements, road use agreements, and decommissioning agreements, the project is only awaiting final approval from the state before construction can commence next year.
“It is great to see such a collaborative effort with the jurisdictions come to fruition. We look forward to getting this project permitted and starting construction in 2022,” said Heritage Wind Development Manager Carmen O’Keefe.
More government funding needed to support people with disabilities, and to better pay Direct Support Professionals
Photos courtesy of Arc GLOW: Kathy welcomes Congressman Chris Jacobs to the Arc Day Habilitation Center in Elba.
Press Release, Arc GLOW
ELBA – Congressman Chris Jacobs met with Arc GLOW leadership on Monday and toured the agency’s Day Habilitation Center on Barrville Road in Elba.
During the tour he had a chance to meet individuals with disabilities who attend program there and greet some of the staff.
Following the tour, Jacobs spent over an hour with Arc GLOW leadership including Chief Executive Officer Martin Miskell, Board President Cheryl Englert and Board Vice President Debrah Fischer.
Miskell shared news of the recent merger of Arc of Genesee Orleans and The Arc Livingston-Wyoming, resulting in Arc GLOW, geographically the largest chapter of The Arc New York. The disability provider’s four-county service area now covers roughly 2,400 square miles and serves nearly 2,000 children and adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities and their families and employs 1,000 staff members.
Alicia, Kathy and Day Hab Specialist Kristen Ace meet with Congressman Chris Jacobs. Alica and Kathy presented him with puzzle art.
The group discussed advocacy priorities including the Better Care Better Jobs Act. This bill includes an investment in the disability service system as part of a Covid-19 economic recovery to support care for Medicaid recipients, and create more and better jobs for the workforce that provides that care.
Team members discussed the staffing shortage Arc GLOW and its sister chapters throughout the state are experiencing, and the need to secure adequate government funding to pay Direct Support Professionals a wage commensurate with their ability, experience and performance.
The importance of employment opportunities for individuals wanting a job in the community was also brought to the table, as October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
Congressman Jacobs said he was honored to tour the Arc GLOW facility in Elba to see firsthand the critical services provides to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our rural communities.
“Organizations like Arc are crucial to providing essential support and educational services, as well as providing members of our I/DD community with meaningful employment opportunities. The leadership is incredibly passionate and doing a wonderful job, and I look forward to continuing our strong partnership to improve access to these services,” Jacobs said.
Board President Cheryl Englert, Congressman Chris Jacobs, CEO Martin Miskell and Board Vice President Debrah Fischer are pictured at the Day Habilitation Center.
YATES – Governor Kathy Hochul on Monday announced construction has begun on a $2.5 million resiliency project awarded to the Town of Yates, Orleans County, as part of New York State’s Resiliency and Economic Development Initiative.
The Yates Town Park serves as the only public recreation space with direct access to Lake Ontario, with over one acre of open space for recreation, including a pavilion and picnic area. The park is a popular destination for both residents and visitors of the Town.
Town of Yates Supervisor James Simon said, “The Town of Yates is very excited to begin construction on our REDI Park project! After lakeshore flooding destroyed our park shoreline in 2017 and 2019, we were grateful to be supported by NY state to strengthen park resiliency and enhance public recreational facilities on the lake. We look forward to reopening our new park in the early fall of 2022 as the culminating event of our 200th anniversary as a town.”
During the historic flooding of 2019, the park experienced substantial erosion along the shoreline. The recreational space was inundated with water due to poor run off conditions, posing safety risks for park goers and inhibiting use of the park. The resiliency work to be undertaken will stabilize the shoreline, mitigate future flooding, and ensure continued access to Yates Town Park during high water events. The park will close to the public on October 18 and remain closed for the duration of the construction.
“Through REDI, New York State is continuing its promise to the Lake Ontario shoreline communities in assisting in their fight against the effects of climate change,” Governor Hochul said. “Ensuring our infrastructure is strong and reliable, and our shorelines are fortified is vital in protecting our residents, as well as safeguarding the economies of shoreline communities. The Town of Yates Park expansion project will do just that, as well as increase the recreational opportunities for both residents and visitors to the town.”
Resiliency measures and park improvements to be implemented in this project include:
Upgrades to the parks drainage and stormwater management systems to resolve the serious drainage and ponding challenges;
Shoreline stabilization at the boat launch;
Installation of a cartop boat launch;
Construction of an ADA compliant fishing/water access pier;
Installation of new playground equipment, a walking trail, new pavilion, and bathroom facilities;
Expansion of the park’s parking area; and
Improvements to landscaping and greenspace.
Senator Robert Ortt said, “By expanding the recreational space and increasing water access to Lake Ontario at Yates Town Park, the New York State REDI Commission and the Town of Yates will be delivering new and exciting greenspace opportunities to the residents of Orleans County. Combining this increased outdoor space with shoreline resiliency is a creative way to implement public safety measures with a public good. I applaud New York State and the Town of Yates for working together in a creative manner for the benefit of our residents and visitors to our region.”
Assemblyman Stephen Hawley said, “This project will ensure that Yates Park is able to be enjoyed for decades to come, and help operators of small watercraft, such as kayaks and paddle boats, make the most of both the park and the lake. While maintaining our parks and waterfronts benefits our local economy, it also provides families a safe, scenic place to gather and socialize. I’m glad this project is moving forward to keep Yates Park and its waterfront safe and open to all, while becoming more enjoyable than ever.”
In response to the extended pattern of flooding along the shores of Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River, New York State established REDI to increase the resilience of shoreline communities and bolster economic development in the region. Five REDI Regional Planning Committees, comprised of representatives from eight counties (Niagara and Orleans, Monroe, Wayne, Cayuga and Oswego, and Jefferson and St. Lawrence) were established to identify local priorities, at-risk infrastructure and other assets, and public safety concerns.
The REDI Commission allocated $20 million for homeowner assistance, $30 million to improve the resiliency of businesses, and $15 million toward a regional dredging effort that will benefit each of the eight counties in the REDI regions. The remaining $235 million has been allocated towards local and regional projects that advance and exemplify the REDI mission.
Since the creation of the State’s REDI program in the Spring of 2019, 134 REDI funded local and regional projects are underway, including 85 projects in the design phase, 22 projects in the construction phase, and 27 projects completed.
Photo courtesy of Lyndonville Central School: The Board of Education and Lyndonville school officials are shown during a recent meeting.
Press Release, Lyndonville Central School
LYNDONVILLE – The New York State School Boards Association recognizes Oct. 18-22 as School Board Recognition Week.
This is a time to promote awareness and understanding of the important work performed by school board members. Lyndonville Central School District will join with all public schools across the state to celebrate and honor local board members for their ongoing work and service to their districts.
“I would like to thank our Board of Education for their continued dedication and commitment to our students, staff, families and community,” said Lyndonville Superintendent Jason Smith. “They put in countless hours, and we value their guidance and leadership.”
The key work of school boards is to raise student achievement by:
Creating a shared vision for the future of education
Setting the direction of the school district to achieve the highest student performance
Providing accountability for student achievement results
Developing a budget that aligns district resources to improve achievement
Supporting a healthy school district culture for students and staff
Lyndonville’s Board of Education and their years of service are as follows:
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 19 October 2021 at 8:45 am
LYNDONVILLE – Tami Slingerland sent in this photo last evening of a group of anglers trying to catch salmon near at the dam at Johnson Creek in Lyndonville.
The salmon and trout are making their annual run up Lake Ontario tributaries. Fishing is the county’s top tourism draw, bringing anglers from many states.
The total economic impact from fishing in Orleans added up to $27,989,393 in 2017, according to survey results from the DEC.
Out-of-state anglers account for 70 percent of the fishing economic output in Orleans County, $19,620,488 of the $27,989,393. County residents who fish accounted for $1,767,334 in economic activity while other New York state residents outside Orleans represented another $6,601,571, according to that survey.
By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 18 October 2021 at 9:34 pm
Photos by Cheryl Wertman – Jarin Rhim heads for the endzone to complete quarterback Xander Payne’s school record 19th TD aerial of the season as Alex Wix tries for the tackle. The action took place during the Mustangs C North title clinching win over the Tigers this evening at Vets Park.
Roaring out to a commanding 30-0 first quarter lead, Medina went on to defeat Akron 54-0 at Vets Park this evening to capture a second straight C North Division championship with a 5-0 record.
Two interceptions and a pair of recoveries of botched Akron kickoff return attempts set up the Mustangs four opening quarter touchdowns.
A pass interception by Greg Thompson on Akron’s first play from scrimmage set up an 8 yard touchdown pass from quarterback Xander Payne to Jarin Rhim and the Mustangs were off and rolling.
Payne also had a 17 yard pass completion to Rhim and an 11 yard run on the drive which also included a 14 yard run by Iverson Poole.
Medina got the ball right back when Thompson recovered Akron’s botched kickoff return attempt at the Tigers 34 yard line.
The Mustangs offense capitalized on a 5 yard touchdown run by Payne who also added the two-point conversion carry for a 14-0 lead.
Medina’s Cayden Lilleby recovers a botched Akron kickoff return attempt during the Mustangs explosive 30 point first quarter.
A 19 yard run by Poole and a 15 yard pass completion from Payne to Hayden Woodroe highlighted the drive.
Again Medina got the ball right back as Cayden Lilleby recovered the ball when Akron again botched the kickoff return attempt.
Two plays later Poole broke loose for a 28 yard touchdown run and Robert Arnold tacked on the two-point conversion to make it 22-0.
The Mustangs defense came up big again just three plays after the ensuing kickoff as Poole intercepted the ball at the Akron 33.
This time it took just three plays for the Mustangs offensive unit to capitalize as Payne hooked up with Rhim for a 10 yard touchdown pass. The TD aerial was Payne’s school record 19th of the season breaking the old mark of 18 set by Levi Pace during the 2008 season.
Arnold again tacked on the two-point conversion upping the lead to 30-0.
The second quarter followed a similar pattern.
First a blocked punt by Noah Skinner at the Akron 8 set up an 8 yard touchdown run by Skinner and a two-point conversion carry by Arnold for a 38-0 lead just 10 seconds into the quarter.
Then a pass interception by Rhim near midfield set the stage for a 10 yard touchdown run by Skinner and a two-point conversion by Arnold upping the the lead to 46-0 at the half.
Payne had a 16 yard pass completion to Poole and Lilleby a 12 yard run to highlight the drive.
The Mustangs final score came on a 34 yard touchdown run and a two-point conversion carry by Arnold three minutes into the third quarter for a 54-0 lead.
The entire second half was played with a running clock.
In addition to registering their third shutout in five division games, the Medina defensive unit did not allow a first down.
Now at 7-0 overall, Medina will close out the regular season by hosting rival Albion in an interdivisional contest at 7 p.m. Friday.
Runner-up Akron, which is now 3-1 in division play, will close out its C North schedule at home on Friday against Cleveland Hill.
Medina’s Iverson Poole breaks loose up the middle for a good gain as Chris Bergman pursues for Akron.
ALBION – Albion Car Show organizers presented a check for $4,100 to Supportive Care of Orleans from the funds raised and donations of the Sept 11th car show.
Pictured from left: Paula Fuller (Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home); Rebekah Karls (car show coordinator); Elisa Chambery, Chief Executive Officer for Supportive Care; and Christine Fancher, social worker/volunteer coordinator for Supportive Care of Orleans.
Press Release, Cornell Cooperative Extension in Orleans County
KNOWLESVILLE – The first confirmed case of the Asian Jumping Worm was submitted to the Diagnostic Lab at Orleans County Cornell Cooperative Extension last week. The specimen came from a home in the village of Medina. The homeowner could not be sure how it arrived to the property.
The “Asian Jumping Worm” is the common name for three different species of earthworms in the Amynthas and Metaphire genera. As the common name suggests, these worms originated in Asia.
There are actually no native earthworms here in Orleans County. The ones we commonly see on rainy days are actually species from Europe, brought over during colonization. These jumping worms pose a greater threat than the European species, however, because they consume organic matter in the soil at far greater rates than the naturalized European species.
This rapid consumption causes big problems for both plant and animal life that relies on healthy soil. Jumping worms leave behind nutrient stripped castings that make it difficult for plants to thrive. These castings are pretty distinctive in appearance, often being compared to dried coffee grounds.
Photo by UW Arboretum: Tiny cocoons are difficult to see.
The worms also disturb and degrade the soil to such extent that, in heavy infestation areas, the forest floor has actually been dropping due to the diminishing soil organic matter. The soil disturbance can also encourage an inhospitable environment for vital soil fauna and those that depend on them for survival like salamanders, birds and other animals. These earthworms can also reproduce without mating, so they can multiply rapidly creating high densities in the soil.
Jumping worms can be distinguished from European earthworms by their behavior and their “clitellum” (the distinct band near the head of the worm). In the jumping worm, the clitellum is often closer to the head, and whitish in color and smooth (the European species tend to have raised clitellum that are pinkish-brown in color). The jumping worms will also often have “crazy” behavior, wriggling and thrashing erratically when exposed.
The spread of these invasive worms can be directly linked to human activity. Worms and their poppy-sized egg casings can be transported through soil, mulch, tools and equipment, shared or purchased plants, or even treads on shoes. Essentially any soil mass larger than a poppy seed has the potential to spread either worms or the cocoon egg masses. Adult worms will die off with the winter cold, however the cocoons will survive the winter, hatch in the spring and start the cycle over again.
Because these worms have now been confirmed to be present in Orleans County, it is important for homeowners and businesses to do their part to reduce the spread. Some key ways to prevent these invasive worms from becoming more prevalent in our community are:
Do not buy or use jumping worms for bait, vermi-composting, or gardening. Purchased earthworms may also be mislabeled, so learn to identify jumping worms by their look and behavior.
Scout the Soil: Check new mulch, compost, and soil for jumping worms and inquire with providers if measures have been taken to reduce the spread of jumping worms. If you can’t confirm the source is jumping worm-free, only purchase or trade mulch, compost, and soil that has been heated to appropriate temperatures and duration following protocols for reducing pathogens (104 – 130˚F for three days is sufficient).
Scan the Plants: Check the soil and roots of potted plants and trees for jumping worms or castings before planting them in your yard. When the option exists, choose bare-root plants over potted plants, ensuring no soil remains affixed. If you find jumping worms in materials you bring in, dispose of all contaminated soil and castings in the trash and kill worms by freezing or leaving in a bag out in the sun, then discard. Alternatively, worms may be killed using vinegar or rubbing alcohol.
Clean compost, soil and debris from vehicles, personal gear (clothing and boot treads), equipment, and gardening tools before moving to and from sites.
If jumping worms are present on your property, do not share or move plants. If you do move or share plants, wash roots and share them either bare-root or re-pot in sterile potting soil.
For more detailed information and images, please see the WNY PRISM Homeowners Guide to Asian Jumping Worms.
KENDALL – The Kendall Central School District Board of Education has chosen three finalists for the district’s next top administrator. The finalists are:
Jennifer DeVinney – Assistant Superintendent for Instruction, Lyons CSD
Nicholas Picardo – Executive Director for Student Services and Athletic Director, Kendall CSD
Kerstin “Kas” Wheeler – Educational Consultant, New York State Council of School Superintendents
“The Kendall Board of Education is pleased with the committed educational leaders we have announced as finalists. We’d like to thank the entire Kendall community for the feedback they provided during this process,” said Board President Lisa Levett. “We are confident this process will deliver a new leader who will support a well-rounded 21st century educational program that includes the arts and extracurricular activities. One who will promote growth, demonstrate a commitment to equity for all and invest in developing strong relationships with the Board of Education, our staff and community through transparent leadership.”
The backgrounds of each finalist include:
Jennifer DeVinney
Jennifer DeVinney is currently the Assistant Superintendent for Instruction in the Lyons Central School District and has served in that position since 2019. Prior to that, DeVinney was the Director of Technology and Curriculum for two years and the Middle-High School Assistant Principal for one year, both in the Lyons Central School District. She taught middle school Spanish for nine years in the Solvay Union Free School District and AP Spanish for one year in the Westhill School District.
DeVinney holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Childhood Education and Spanish from Elmira College, a Master’s Degree in Teacher Leadership from the University of Phoenix, and a Master’s Degree in School Building and School District Leadership from St. John’s University. She previously served on the Board of Education in the Red Creek Central School District where she currently resides with her husband Nathan, who is an electrician. DeVinney and her husband are small business owners and have four children: Connor, 11, Addison, 9, Reagan, 7 and Barrett, 2.
Nicholas Picardo
Nicholas Picardo is currently the Executive Director for Student Services and Athletic Director
for the Kendall Central School District and has served in those positions since July 2018. Prior to that, Picardo served as the Coordinator of Student Services and Committee on Special Education Chair in the Kendall Central School District, a position he began in July 2014. Picardo has spent his educational career in the Kendall Central School District serving as an administrator, Social Studies teacher, department chair, coach and advisor.
Picardo holds a Bachelor of Science in History from SUNY Geneseo, a Master of Science in Education from Roberts Wesleyan College and a Certificate of Advanced Study in Education Administration from SUNY Brockport. He also completed the Future Superintendents Academy program through the
New York State Council of School Superintendents. Picardo and his wife Kelly live in the Kendall Central School District where their daughter Sophia attends school.
Kerstin “Kas” Wheeler
Kerstin “Kas” Wheeler earned a Bachelor of Arts in Modern Foreign Languages with a concentration in business and a Master of Science in Education from Nazareth College. She earned a Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Administration from SUNY Brockport. Wheeler has served in both small and large districts as a teacher in both general and special education, a building leader, Director and Assistant Superintendent. She is also currently serving as an educational consultant through the New York State Council of School Superintendents, as well as the chair-elect of the Rochester Finger Lakes Affliate of NYS Association for Women in Administration. Wheeler is a self- proclaimed bookworm, appreciator of the arts and outdoor enthusiast. She cherishes family time with her husband, their three children, and grandchild.
The three finalists are scheduled for individual day-long visits to district buildings. The schedule is as follows:
Thursday, October 21: Jennifer DeVinney
Wednesday, October 27: Nicholas Picardo
Thursday, October 28: Kerstin “Kas” Wheeler
Each day-long visit will end with a Meet the Finalist Forum beginning at 4:30 p.m. in the Kendall Junior/Senior High School Auditorium for all community members to meet the candidates in person.
“The members of the Kendall Board of Education have dedicated themselves to an intensive process to select finalists for a new superintendent,” said Monroe 2-Orleans BOCES District Superintendent and Search Consultant Jo Anne L. Antonacci. “Their choice of three qualified candidates demonstrates their commitment to providing Kendall with exceptional leadership.”
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 18 October 2021 at 12:24 pm
LYNDONVILLE – A Lyndonville woman was killed in an accident Friday morning on Route 104.
Cristal M. Nunez-Rexach, 33, was pronounced deceased at the scene, State Police said today.
Troopers responded at 10:31 a.m. to Route 104 and Kenyonville Road in the town of Gaines for a multiple vehicle collision involving a tractor trailer.
Further investigation revealed that a 2008 Jeep Liberty was traveling southbound on Kenyonville Road and failed to yield the right of way at the intersection controlled by a stop sign, State Police said.
A 1999 Peterbilt tractor trailer, traveling west bound on State Route 104, struck the Jeep in the intersection and a third vehicle attempted to avoid the collision and struck a culvert, troopers said.
Nunez-Rexach’s was the operator of the Jeep. The driver of the Peterbilt was transported by Mercy Flight to Strong Memorial Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit and the Bureau of Criminal Investigation assisted in this investigation, which is ongoing.
These three quilt patterns are among 40 on the Kendall Barn Quilt Trail. From left they include “The Farmer’s Daughter,” “Twisting Star” and “Railroad Crossing.”
“Illuminating Orleans” – Vol. 1, No. 24
By Catherine Cooper, Orleans County Historian
KENDALL – Colorful quilt patterns have adorned barns in the Kendall area since 2006 when quilting enthusiast, Lora Partyka, first suggested the idea of a local quilt trail which generated a great deal of local enthusiasm.
Soon the 4’x 4’ hand-painted squares which depict designs that signify the property or the owner’s interests were to be seen on many barns and the initiative was the focus of tourist interest.
• The Farmer’s Daughter quilt pattern is on Countyline Road at Partyka Farms. Lora’s design was the first to be displayed. Lora is a fifth generation farmer’s daughter on her father’s side.
• Railroad Crossing on Kendall Road was selected by Jeanette and Bill Behnke. Bill was a conductor for the Kodak Industrial rail system. This design also reflects local railroad history. The property is close to the old Hojack Line which was instrumental in the development of Kendall as a shipping center for the abundance of locally grown farm produce.
Train service began in 1876. Several industries developed around the railroad station: grain storage, cold storage, dry-houses, coal-yards. As transportation methods changed, the Hojack Line became defunct in the 1970s, having served the area for one hundred years. Two buildings which used to be on the railroad property, a small shed and a red octagonal building, were relocated beside the Behnke barn.
• Twisting Star is on Bropst farm on Peter Smith Road features this dramatic design selected as it was a personal favorite and reflects the constancy of the beauty of the area as well as the changes caused by time and climate
These are but a few of the over 40 barn quilts in Orleans County. As we are celebrating Heritage Season, a leisurely country quilt-spotting drive might be in order.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 18 October 2021 at 11:50 am
Photos by Ginny Kropf: Sue and Sam Hershberger share duties at the Faith Covenant Fellowship church at 11945 Million Dollar Highway, Medina. They arrived from Oklahoma after the previous pastor left.
MEDINA – A small church on the edge of town has welcomed a new pastor and his wife.
The Rev. Sam Hershberger and his wife Sue arrived from Oklahoma, where he was in between pastoring jobs. Searching online, they discovered Faith Covenant Fellowship at 11945 Million Dollar Highway was looking for a pastor, after the church’s had left.
Moving from Oklahoma to Western New York wasn’t that big of a change for them as they are formerly from Ohio and still have family there. The couple has five children, nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. They had left Ohio in 2006 to attend Rhema Bible College in Broken Arrow, Okla.
The pastor does the preaching and Sue takes care of the administrative duties, the pastor said.
“The congregation has been very welcoming to us,” he said.
His first sermon at the new church was preached via Zoom from their home in Oklahoma. He would like to being offering his sermons here online in 2022.
Faith Covenant Fellowship was founded by Jerry and Pat Grimes of Medina. Their daughter Amy Miller has stayed as worship leader.
The pastor said his sermons are Bible-based, where the spirit is free to move. He uses Bible principles adapted to real life.
“He preaches faith and healing,” Sue said.
The church also has a children’s ministry run by Chad Wirth, and a nursery all set up, ready for growth, Sue said.
Every other month, they have a potluck dinner.
They welcome the community to join them for Sunday worship or prayer meetings and Bible study at 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays.
Currently, the couple is living in the Millville United Methodist Church parsonage, while they search for a home to buy.
Faith Covenant Fellowship just east of Medina has welcomed a new pastor and his wife. They hope to grow the congregation, which meets at 10 a.m. Sundays for worship.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 18 October 2021 at 9:05 am
Photos courtesy of Alan Worgo
ALBION – Local firefighters and law enforcement officers are shown with Rev. Richard Csizmar, pastor of Holy Family Parish, and members of Gates Keystone Club before a Blue Mass on Sunday at Holy Family.
This is the sixth year the parish held a Mass to honor and pray for law enforcement officers, corrections officers, coroners, firefighters and medics.
The Gates Keystone Club (Police Pipes and Drums) provided music for the service. The band formed in 1998 to “for the purpose of honoring our fallen brothers and sisters and to participate at official ceremonial events.”
The Knights of Columbus, Council 1330, has pushed for the Blue Mass locally.
Photo and information courtesy of Medina Marching Band
VICTOR – The Victor Marching Band hosted a competition on Saturday with 14 bands from around Western NY competing. Despite the ominous prediction, the weather held out allowing all of the bands to compete.
In SS1, Medina earned 1st place with a score of 88.85 followed by East Irondequoit in 2nd with 85.75.
There were 4 bands in the SS3 class and Norwich earned 1st place with a score of 76.40 followed by Marcus Whitman in 2nd at 76.35, Leroy in 3rd at 74.90 and Falconer-Frewsburg in 4th with 72.45.
The LS3 class had 2 competitors with Greece earning 1st place at 80.05 followed by Hilton with 78.55.
Webster led the LS2 class with a score of 84.80 followed by West Seneca in 2nd place at 83.50 and Orchard Park in 3rd place with 79.95.
There were 3 National bands performing and Victor earned 1st place with 88.55, Lancaster in 2nd at 88.30 and Jamestown in 3rd with 83.55.
Medina’s next competition is Saturday in Greece.
The NYS Field Band Championships are on Sunday, Oct. 31, at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse. Travel time from Medina is approximately 2 1/2 hours and parking at the Dome is usually $10 a car. Tickets can only be purchased at the Dome and are $19 for adults, $13 for senior citizens 65 and older, and $13 for and students 18 years and younger. This ticket price is for the whole day. Everyone must wear a mask while in the Dome except while eating. This is for vaccinated and unvaccinated people. If you are bringing anything into the Dome it must be in a clear bag and not very big. SS1 class begins at 5:30 p.m. and Medina performs at 5:45 p.m.
Contributed Story Posted 17 October 2021 at 5:46 pm
Contributed Photo – Geno Allport is congratulated by his son Tre and Albion youth football players after receiving word that he has been honored as the Buffalo Bills Fan of the Year.
Western New York to be sure has a legion of ardent Buffalo Bills fans and there is probably none more so than Albion’s Geno Allport.
He’s a fan that the Bills look at as very special as the team has selected Geno as the Buffalo Bills Fan of the Year.
“It definitely caught caught me off guard. It’s very humbling,” said Geno whose family has had Bills season tickets for nearly 50 years.
“My son Tre apparently sent in a nomination for the Buffalo Bills NFL Fan of the Year. And I was surprised by the Buffalo Bills, family and friends on Thursday night with this news,” he added.
“This to me is a Family of the Year award. Our parents got their season tickets back in 1974 (which is why 74 is on the jersey). This is about all of us,” said Geno who for many years has very active as a coach and commissioner of the Albion youth football program, a member of the Niagara Orleans Football Association (NOFA) Executive Board and the NFL’s USA Football program for youth..
He notes that with this honor he was asked by the Bills what he was doing in February? “I said hopefully watching my team. And they told me, I was receiving 2 tickets to the Super Bowl. So, my son Tre and I will be heading out to Los Angeles in February. Hopefully our Bills will be playing and more that day!” he said.
“I’ve been very fortunate in life to be a part of great families. My Allport family, my Albion Purple Eagle football family, my Vertus (the High School in Rochester where he teaches) Warriors family and of course, our Bills family,” he added.
