BATAVIA – Genesee Community College is pleased to announce The BEST Center will be offering new technical programs this fall. With the changing needs of the workforce and the increased need for individuals trained in technical skills, the BEST Center will offer a variety of programs including Introduction to Electric, Refrigeration, HVAC, Heating, Plumbing, Computer Numerical Control and Cybersecurity courses.
Introduction to Electric will be one of the first courses to be offered. It is scheduled for Saturdays from Sept. 16 to Nov. 18 from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
“The course times and hours were selected to allow working professionals to take the class outside of their regular working hours,” said Jennifer Wakefield, executive director of Workforce Development. “These new technical programs will benefit many employees and companies in the GLOW region. Reports are generated monthly demonstrating the unfilled positions in our region due to the lack of skilled employees. We hope to close this gap with these new offerings.”
In addition, through the SUNY HealthCARES Grant, training for GCC Health Care Studies students and BEST Center clients, will be offered in a virtual reality format. Students will be able to use ocular headsets loaded with industry-recognized curriculum to explore healthcare career options, practice techniques, learn new skills and prepare for industry-recognized certifications. In addition, students will be connected with local healthcare organizations for career pathways preparation.
New programming requires new staff to provide service to our companies and students. Kathy Wood is the Regional Coordinator for the SUNY HealthCARES Grant. Wood has over 20 years of combined experience in program coordination and healthcare workforce development.
Christa Palmer, also new to the team, is the Coordinator of Technical Programs for the BEST Center. She joins GCC with over 25 years of experience in education.
“Technology gives our companies important business tools, which leads to gains in productivity and profitability. These new courses for high-demand careers will provide the training needed for our companies to be successful,” said Dr. Craig Lamb, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs at GCC.
The BEST Center at GCC is the recognized regional leader in developing the skilled workforce that powers local economic growth. The Center serves individual employees, as well as businesses large and small, with seminars, workshops, and trainings designed to improve the performance of people and processes.
After reading the article on Orleans Hub on June 20th, I couldn’t help but notice the opening line: that village officials state that the “playground equipment doesn’t get much use.”
I have been a lifelong resident of Orleans County and reside in close proximity to the Gulf Street Park. In the past decade or so I have noticed that in this area of Medina, there have been more than a handful of new, younger families moving in. These younger families have children.
I have also observed that the older generations who reside in the area have frequent visitors which include young grandchildren, nieces, nephews, friends, etc.
Having the Gulf Street Playground nearby has been a tease. Children and families are eager to have a playground to use and often look longingly at the playground but the equipment does not go unused due to lack of interest – it goes unused due to lack of safety.
Nearly every piece of equipment there is accompanied by safety concerns and children are frequently upset that parents and guardians limit their access to it (rightfully so). Furthermore, this side of the canal has also seen events happen in the Gulf Street Playground including a yearly catapult event, tents set up for get togethers, children kicking balls around, and the open grass used for softball.
I think it is also worth noting that as we drive by Pine Street Park, there are times when there is no parking available due to the crowding of families attending T-ball/baseball practice there on nights when multiple teams are using the same park.
Why hasn’t Gulf Street Park ever been an option? Why hasn’t Gulf Street Park been an option for soccer? I hear conversations about a disc golf course in this area of town. A beautiful part of town, a beautiful piece of land…used for one area of interest?
I strongly suggest considering the use of this park as a park: to accommodate families, to be a place for those young and old to spend time together, to serve as a location for a variety of sports or leisure activities. I am hopeful that what is included in this letter has already been considered and, if not, will be.
Photo by Tom Rivers: The Canal Culvert outside Medina in Ridgeway impressed many of the cyclists on July 11, 2022. They stopped to get selfies with the big stone structure, which is the only spot where vehicles can drive under the Erie Canal.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 1 July 2023 at 8:18 am
MEDINA – A 25-year tradition will continue when 650 cyclists arrive in Medina July 9 during the Cycle the Erie Canal event.
Cyclists from all over the United States will start in Buffalo on July 9 and arrive in Medina early afternoon, said Jim Hancock, chair of Medina Tourism, which is planning welcoming events. The cyclists set up at Medina Central School, in what has come to be known as “Tent City.” They depart the next morning and head to Fairport. They will be welcomed at rest stops in Albion and Holley.
In Medina, Hancock and Dawn Borchet, head of Orleans County Tourism, will mark the route for the cyclists from the canal to the school and back. Boy Scout Troop 35 will help unload the trucks carrying the cyclists’ gear.
The event is coordinated locally by the village’s Tourism Committee, Medina Central School District and the state’s Parks and Recreation Department. The Village Tourism Committee members will man an informational booth to answer questions and offer assistance. Local businesses, such as Della’s Chocolates and Case-Nic Cookies, will be on site to offer their goodies.
Massage therapist Mike Webster will be on hand to provide relief to weary cyclists.
“While the cyclists are in Medina, the village’s Tourism Committee provides a variety of activities to showcase our beautiful village,” Hancock said.
This includes a shuttle bus to transport cyclists downtown and around to different highpoints and the downtown business district. This includes the Medina Sandstone Hall of Fame, the Visitor’s Center, Medina Historical Society, Canal Basin and State Street Park for the Who Dats concert. An employee from Author’s Note will be on hand to make books available at the school, and will have their store open on Main Street from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Also new this year, North Star Cruises will have cruises on the canal from noon to 8 p.m. Cruises are one hour long and will begin on the hour. Cost is $25 per person. Anyone can call (716) 514-9378 to make a reservation.
A concert in the park will take place at the pavilion in State Street Park, featuring “The Who Dats” from 4 to 6 p.m. The general public is also invited to attend.
Zambistro’s catering will provide dinner and a send-off breakfast to all cyclists.
At 7 p.m. music will be provided on campus for the cyclists by Dave Stockton’s “Loose Change.”
This event is made successful year after year due to efforts by the Medina Central School District and Medina Tourism Committee, Hancock said.
Cyclists participating in Cycle the Canal will arrive in Buffalo on July 8, where they will be treated to a ride downtown and Niagara Falls, wine tasting, music and a speech by Craig Williams on “Erie Canal History.” The trip ends in Albany on July 16.
Photos by Ginny Kropf: (Left) Renee Hungerford, executive director of Community Action of Orleans and Genesee counties, welcomed guests and recapped the state of the agency at the annual staff in-service meeting Friday at the Albion Elks Lodge. (Center) Barb Shine, president of Community Action’s board of directors, introduced staff and praised the agency’s accomplishments during the past year. (Right) Bonnie Malakie, who leads Head Start, shared her department’s successes.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 19 June 2023 at 8:25 am
ALBION – Community Action of Orleans and Genesee County’s annual staff in-service meeting took place Friday at the Albion Elks Lodge with more than 100 employees from both counties.
Executive director Renee Hungerford welcomed the guests, saying its purpose was to recognize achievements, celebrate milestones, examine community needs challenges during the last year and learn about compliance.
She told of the challenges she faced when she came to the agency in October 2020, in the midst of a pandemic.
“They had recently lost their CEO to cancer and their CFO had resigned, but everybody came together as a team,” Hungerford said.
She talked about the changes that have been made, saying, “Change brings opportunity.”
Some of the changes include a new computer equipment, new website, new internet, job aids security cameras, getting Microsoft 356, parking lot lighting, first aid and Narcan training, panic buttons, adding telehealth service at the Main Street Store for veterans, receiving a grant for $250,000 from the Highmark Blue Fund for a two-year Stone Soup program and a three-year grant to start a respite program, providing organized activities, support and respite for caregivers.
The Stone Soup program’s goal is to provide 350 low-income families with nutrition education and cooking utensils and, in the second year, provide food prescription vouchers giving them access to fresh, healthy produce.
Caregivers Revitalize is the three-year respite grant from the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation through United Way, which will provide respite every Tuesday afternoon, alternating between the YMCA in Medina and the Eastern Orleans Community Center in Holley. In the third year, the program will expand into Genesee County.
Last year, Hungerford introduced a program called Axis of Care, for which she won an Innovation award. The program has grown from an idea on paper a year ago as a collaborative effort between four organizations to an alliance with representatives from more than 30 local agencies. Intended to help find new ways to solve the problems so many in the community face, Hungerford said they connected more than 80 individuals to insurance, vaccines, healthcare and nutrition courses and brought resources to them through mobile resource fairs.
Community Action held a contest last year to rename its Main Street Store to better reflect all that the store offers. Not only do they have good quality, affordable clothing, jewelry, furniture and more, but they added an outdoor emergency refrigerator and walk-in coolers. They offer a tutoring program for Albion seniors and job assistance, including how to make out a resume and dress properly for a job. The new name is Main Street Corner Thrift, Gifts and More.
Jackie Dunham, left, and Melinda Daniels gave away prizes for answering agency-related questions.
Two years ago, they had a Continual Care Solutions representative do an analysis on their office and discovered they didn’t have the ability to do the type of reporting required. Katrina Chaffee took the lead on developing that program.
Hungerford said their financial system was antiquated and not working out. She hired Tom Costa this spring as chief financial officer who is working on a new system.
“We want our program directors to know how much money is left in the budget and how much they can spend,” Hungerford said.
A recap of last year’s accomplishments saw 3,134 individuals received assistance in 3,009 households; 1,077 people utilized Community Action food pantries; 1,000 utilized food distribution; 461 individuals received 6,335 prepared meals at the Eastern Orleans Community Center; 271 individuals received assistance to avoid eviction; 194 children received school supplies; 78 individuals avoided utility shut-off; 24 received employment support; 57 homes received weatherization services; 152 homes received holiday meal kits; 103 households had air conditioners installed in partnership with Social Services; 241 children enrolled in Head Start and 53 enrolled in Early Head Start, many of them receiving age appropriate immunizations and improved literacy skills; 358 youth participated in ACT – Helping Youth ACT Responsibly; and 18 students attended the credit recovery program.
Other highlights of the year include free Door Dash deliveries; sale of the West State Street property; starting a seedling program and community garden; participation in an inaugural New York State Community Action podcast; and instituting an Employee of the Month program.
Other speakers who shared their department’s goals and achievements were Bonnie Malakie, Head Start/Early Head Start; Susan Jessmer, Agency Policies and Procedures updates; Melinda Daniels and Hungerford, Basics of ROMA, Results Oriented Management and Accountability management practice; Marty Taber, ACT; Katrina Chaffee, Emergency Services; and Tom Costa, financial.
Every three years, Community Action does a Community Needs Assessment, and they are in the process of doing one now. Some of the recommended needs are: Exploring opportunities to build and expand relations for further collaboration with community partners; exploring opportunities to build relationships with healthcare organizations; explore fund development methods to enhance current programming or develop new programs; explore opportunities to assist customers with transportation needs (new United Way funding will expand Orleans transportation program); explore opportunities to increase housing by developing a homeless shelter program; explore systems to assist with the collection of data; and enhance training opportunities for staff to increase their technology skills.
Photos by Katrina Chaffee: (Left) Sheriff’s Deputy Torry Tooley presented a program on safety at Community Action’s in-service meeting, sharing tips on everything from identifying a threat to how to act in the case of an active shooter.(Right) Charles Nesbitt, former State Assemblyman and recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross, was guest speaker at Community Action of Orleans and Genesee’s annual staff in-service meeting Friday.
Two guest speakers were Deputy Torry Tooley, a SWAT team leader from the Orleans County Sheriff’s Department, and former Assemblyman and Distinguished Flying Cross recipient Charles Nesbitt.
Tooley showed a video and shared tips on how to defend yourself in a variety of circumstances, particularly a shooting incident.
In introducing Nesbitt, Hungerford said he was a hero and an example of courage and sacrifice.
Nesbitt told the audience they are making a difference every day in what they do, and he thanked them for making this a better place to live.
He explained he was 20 and in college when he enlisted in the military, even though he had an educational deferment, “Because if I didn’t, someone else would have to go,” he said.
He ended up in the 57th Assault Helicopter Company as a pilot, where he accumulated more than 1,000 hours of combat time.
“Here I was barely out of high school and in charge of an aircraft rescuing people,” he said.
He would later receive the Distinguished Flying Cross for his acts of heroism saving several platoons.
Nesbitt grew up in Barre, where his dad ran a farm. His dad served in World War II and then got called back during the Korean War. Charlie, his mom and brother tried to run the farm, but it eventually failed. His father later started a very successful car dealership, in which Charlie worked until making the decision to run for the New York State Assembly.
At that time the district was made up of Monroe County, 53 percent; Genesee County, 30 percent; and Orleans County 17 percent. Newscasters were predicting Orleans County had no chance whatsoever to win. In fact, one Rochester station declared the Monroe County candidate a winner.
“They forgot about Orleans County,” Nesbitt said. “I got 90 percent of the vote. I won the election two to one. There were lots of reasons why I won. I wanted to make a difference. I had kids growing up in school here and I wanted to prove a person from our little corner of the world could win, so the kids of our schools and the people who live here could win and be part of the process.”
Nesbitt soon became a ranking member of the Veterans’ Committee in Albany and eventually the minority leader of the State Assembly, leading the Republican conference.
Then Governor George Pataki called him and offered him a commission as head of the Tax Appeals Division of the State of New York.
After more than 20 years in Albany, his commission wasn’t renewed and he returned home to Albion.
“Here I was in Albany in the center of the action, and now I’m floundering,” Nesbitt said.
So he threw himself into getting involved in his local community. He is on the Albion Alumni Foundation Board, the Cobblestone Credit Union board, chair of the Rural Opportunities Housing Board and has started a consulting business.
He said he had one simple message.
“Change is going to happen whether you like it or not,” he said. “Change is going on here right now. And change is good. It means we are not stagnant. And sometimes you need to be the person leading the change.”
Friday’s program also included short stories by several who shared how Community Action made a difference in their lives. They were Linsey Vallett, Beth Longhini, Melissa DeRose and David Dodge.
A plea was also issued for employee Edna Schramm, whose husband needs a stem cell transplant. All in attendance were urged to get tested to see if they might be a match.
Primary goal of 10,828-acre refuge was to protect migratory fowl
By Catherine Cooper, Orleans County Historian
“Illuminating Orleans” – Vol. 3, No. 20
June 1973 – Lawrence S. Smith, shown branding a Canada goose, was the first manager at the Iroquois Wildlife Refuge. Appointed in 1958, he worked there until 1973.
Rushing south or north, we tend to drive through the Swamp area without due consideration of its uniqueness. Some 19,000 acres of natural wetland habitat on our doorstep. An important habitat for migratory birds. Home to a variety of native birds and wildlife. Trails and overlook areas which attract thousands of nature-loving visitors each year.
We referenced the 1947 purchase of the first area refuge, the Oak Orchard Wildlife Management Area, in the previous column. Efforts to conserve the swamp habitat continued through the 1950s.
In 1957, the NYS Dept. of Conservation purchased a 5,600-acre tract of land located primarily in Genesee and Niagara counties, with a small portion in Orleans County. This refuge was named the Tonawanda Wildlife Management Area.
Meanwhile, the Northeast division of the Fish and Wildlife Service indicated that they wished to purchase a large tract of land in the area also. Robert F. Perry, head of the regional NYS Conservation Dept. promoted the already well-established Oak Orchard site and highlighted the potential of the Alabama Swamp area to the west. His efforts bore fruit.
In December 1957 the Wildlife Service announced the authorization of a major wildlife refuge project straddling southern Orleans and northern Genesee counties. Bounded on the west by Dunlap, Oak Orchard Ridge and Tibbetts Roads, on the east by Knowlesville Rd, on the south by Roberts, Casey and Lewiston Roads and on the west by Salt Works Rd., the 10,828 acre Oak Orchard National Wildlife Refuge was intended primarily to provide protection for migratory fowl. Part of the swampland would also be open to hunters at designated times.
The announcement initially generated mixed responses. Since the purchase involved some 20 percent of the Town of Shelby land, there was concern over loss of property tax revenue. An opposition group of Shelby landowners protested the “land grab” of valuable farmland by the Federal government.
Originally named the Oak Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, the site was renamed the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge in 1964, since the similarity of the names of the two refuges caused confusion.
Several people were instrumental in the promotion and development of this unique resource, including Lawrence S. Smith in the top photo:
October 1970 – Robert F. Perry (left), regional director of the NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation, principal force behind the development of the Wildlife Refuge. Stephen Champlin (right), representing the Orleans County Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs, which advocated for the creation of the site.
June 1973 – Oliver D. Meddaugh, principal waterfowl technician, worked at the Wildlife Management Areas for 31 years.
April 1980 – Thomas “Dan” Carroll, who succeeded Oliver Meddaugh, compiled a thorough history of the Wildlife Areas.
October 1988 – Don Cook, sportsman, wildlife enthusiast, photographer, and columnist who chronicled and promoted the Wildlife Refuge.
Provided photos: Pictured from left, top row: Karyn Bryson, Gary Boccaccio and Maureen Dugan. Bottom row: Kristen Hargrave, Daniel Snyder and Kenneth Rainis.
Posted 13 June 2023 at 12:45 pm
Press Release, Genesee Community College
BATAVIA – Six exceptional members of the Genesee Community College team have been recognized by the State University of New York for outstanding contributions to their profession, the campus, and the community.
The SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence is given in recognition of consistently superior professional achievement and encourages the ongoing pursuit of excellence.
The following faculty and staff members earned a SUNY Chancellor Award for the 2022-23 academic year.
• Kenneth G. Rainis was awarded the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Adjunct Teaching. This award recognizes consistently superior teaching at the graduate, undergraduate or professional level in keeping with the State University’s commitment to providing its students with instruction of the highest quality.
Ken has been a member of GCC’s Math/Science faculty since 2015 and has taught a wide variety of courses including Biology, Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, and Human Nutrition. Ken’s over 45-year experience in science education and as a science education author, go well beyond the textbook since lessons need to come to life with real-world applications.
Ken is a highly experienced individual known for his creativity, adaptability, and connectivity inside and outside the classroom. He is committed to high-quality standards and nurturing student curiosity.
• Gary J. Boccaccio was honored with the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in the Classified Service, a system-level award established by SUNY to give system-wide recognition for superior performance and extraordinary achievement by employees in the Classified Service. These awards demonstrate the University’s commitment to individuals who provide superior service to its students and the community at large.
Gary has been a member of GCC’s classified staff in the position of Custodial Worker since 2005. He is an individual dedicated to his work and possess an exemplary work ethic. Gary is reliable, takes pride in what he does, and is always willing to go above and beyond what is required of him. Gary finds joy in what he does and is committed to making meaningful contributions to the college. His positive attitude and commitment inspire others.
• Karyn S. Bryson received the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Faculty Service, which recognizes the consistently superior service contributions of teaching faculty. This service must be sustained over multiple years and may occur in a variety of venues.
Karyn has been a member of GCC’s Paralegal faculty since 2008. She has provided outstanding service both in and out of the classroom and truly is committed to the entire college community and learning environment. In addition to her excellence in the classroom, she has made significant contributions to the college through her service. A few examples include her instituting a chapter of National Honor Society for paralegal students, implementing a HyFlex modality for the delivery of her instruction, reorganizing the Student Paralegal Association, and serving as a leader for the Genesee Educational Association.
• Kristen L. Hargrave was recognized with the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Professional Service. This award recognizes consistently superior professional achievement within and beyond the position.
Kristen has been a member of GCC’s Records office since 2015 where she began as a Transfer Coordinator and was then promoted to Assistant Registrar. She is an individual dedicated to mastering her role and accomplishing a great deal of work beyond the outline of her position description. A few samples of her work include redesigning the college’s transfer services web page, supporting student completion by maintaining and continuously improving the Degree Works system, creating shared resources to assist in campus-wide collaboration and advisement of students, and serving as the college’s Curriculum Secretary and Genesee Educational Association Secretary.
• Maureen “Moi” E. Dugan was awarded the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Scholarship and Creative Activities, which supports the pursuits foundational to sustaining the intellectual growth of SUNY institutions by recognizing consistently outstanding scholarly and creative productivity, conducted in addition to teaching, by SUNY’s instructional faculty.
Moi has been a member of GCC since 2006. Some of her career highlights include integrating art with the campus and community through an annual pottery fundraiser for the college’s food pantry and implementing a summer studio fine arts camp for youth. She participated in the development of the Roz Steiner Art Gallery, working with the Gallery Advisory Board and architects in the evolution of the gallery design and vision. Beyond the classroom, she donates a significant amount of time to various organizations, exhibits her pottery nationally, and engages in regular professional development to learn new techniques that she can engage her students with.
• Daniel E. Snyder was honored with the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching. This award recognizes consistently superior teaching at the graduate, undergraduate or professional level in keeping with the State University’s commitment to providing its students with instruction of the highest quality.
Dan has been a member of GCC since 2007 and a full-time faculty member since 2019. His approach to teaching is customized, effective and empowering. Dan understands the importance of connecting to each student and adapting to the various classroom atmospheres he encounters. He has an engaging personality that students find intriguing, does not get intimidated easily and adapts to any learning environment.
“We are incredibly proud of the exceptional individuals who have received the SUNY Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence,” said Dr. James Sunser, president of GCC. “Kenneth Rainis, Gary Boccaccio, Karyn Bryson, Kristen Hargrave, Maureen Dugan and Daniel Snyder have consistently demonstrated outstanding contributions to their respective fields, our campus, and the community. Their commitment to excellence and dedication have had a profound impact on our students and the overall educational experience at Genesee Community College.”
Provided photo: Kendall Lions President Eric Maxon presents Julie Kludt with our annual “Citizen of the Year Award.”
KENDALL – The Kendall Lions Club honored Julie Kludt as the 2023 Citizen of the Year. The cub gives the annual award to an individual whose volunteerism and dedication have made a significant contribution to the community.
Kludt, through many years of service to both the causes and citizens of Kendall, has never sought recognition. She serves, supports and shows up. She has volunteered for a variety of community organizations over the years.
She has supported the Kendall Fire Auxiliary and Fire Department as she runs the waffle booth at the Kendall Fireman’s Carnival and volunteers at the annual Easter Egg Hunt, coloring eggs and bringing the Easter Bunny to life.
Kludt also volunteers to help our youth with the Recreation Department and Kendall Central School.
“My heart always smiles the biggest when I am with kids,” she said.
Kludt is also active in her church and helps many others through her many acts of kindness throughout the community. The Kendall Lions appreciate the many years of service and congratulate Julie Kludt on her award.
Photos by Ginny Kropf: (Left) Nicole Targa waters some of the 500 cups of seedlings which were planted at Community Action with the help of staff and volunteers. (Right) Staff and volunteers at Community Action planted the raised beds in the agency’s back yard on Thursday morning. Melinda Daniels plants tomatoes which were grown from seeds that were donated for the project. When the vegetables are ready, families will be able to come help themselves to free produce.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 2 June 2023 at 9:00 am
ALBION – A new program underway at Community Action in Albion is intended to further the agency’s mission of “giving a hand up, rather than a handout.”
On Thursday morning, staff and volunteers began planting a community garden in the back yard by the canal.
The idea came about when director Renee Hungerford attended the first Stone Soup graduation, a program Hungerford developed to teach families how to prepare food.
“A woman approached me and said it would be nice if we could distribute seedlings so people like her homebound mother could plant some food,” Hungerford said.
From left, Jackie Dunham, chief operating officer at Community Action; director Renee Hungerford; and Jeff Atwell, energy auditor for the Weatherization Program, look over materials donated for their community garden.
Hungerford wrote to SowRight Seeds asking for a donation and they sent a ton of seeds, she said.
“We began offering seed packets to our clients and then started a wide variety in our office windows, so we could distribute growing plants at planting season,” Hungerford said.
She next wrote to Vego Garden to request raised beds. They offered six metal beds, but Hungerford asked for only three.
Next, they received a donation of fertilizer from Dunham Farms in Knowlesville. Another very generous donor provided the soil.
“Many hands of staff and volunteers went toward planting, watering and assembling,” Hungerford said. “This is not just a garden of produce, but truly a garden of love.”
Community Action has refrigerators for their food pantry behind their buildings, so when the plants start to produce, the vegetables can be picked and refrigerated for families to help themselves.
“We hope families will come out and weed and help care for the beds,” Hungerford said. “We hope it will be therapeutic for them.”
Jeff Atwell, Melinda Daniels and Jackie Dunham prepare the beds for planting a community garden in the back yard of Community Action on West State Street in Albion.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 19 May 2023 at 3:39 pm
Photo by Ginny Kropf: The committee promoting Medina’s annual Community Garage Sale and Chicken Barbecue on June 3 are, from left, Jim Hancock, Tim Moriarty, and Julie and Chris Keller.
MEDINA – Medina Lions annual Community Yard Sale and Chicken Barbecue have been a tradition on the first Saturday in June for more than 20 years, according to event chairman Jim Hancock.
The event is scheduled for June 3, featuring yard sales throughout the village, a vendor fair at the Olde Pickle Factory and a chicken barbecue.
The day will also feature the usual “Weinermobile” traveling the village to offer hot dogs to those shoppers who don’t won’t to miss a sale. Pete Kaiser, Chris Leavitt and Matt Kreutz will be the hot dog crew.
Hancock said 30 vendors have already reserved a spot at the Olde Pickle Factory, featuring a wide variety of merchandise.
Lions Chris and Julie Keller will be running the hotdog and hamburger stand for the Lions at the vendor location.
“We have the best hamburgers in town,” Chris said.
Lions will also be on the four corners of Main Street from 9 a.m. to noon handing out maps of the village indicating the location of yard sales. The maps are free, but a donation is appreciated, to help the Lions with their projects for the community.
The deadline for residents to register their address at Lake Country Pennysaver to be included on the map is noon May 24.
Chiavetta’s will be cooking the chicken, for which pre-sale tickets are available for $14 from any Lions member, or by calling (716) 417-0079. Tickets the day of the event will be $15. Serving will begin at 11:30 until sold out.
New this year will be music by Rob Robinson. Also, this year, the Lions will be able to accept credit cards.
Photos by Ginny Kropf: Jason Michalski of Medina, left, buys two hanging baskets Saturday from Ronald Human and his grandson Bradley at the Canal Village Farmers’ Market.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 14 May 2023 at 11:16 am
MEDINA – Bright sunshine and warm weather brought a steady stream of visitors to the Canal Village Farmers’ Market on Saturday.
The market has been set up all winter in the former NAPA Auto Parts Store owned by Craig Lacy, and plans to stay there for the summer. Lacy is hoping to find a use for the building, and at such time, the market would return to its former location at the corner of West Center Street and West Avenue.
The summer season officially begins June 3, and will have new features and new vendors, Miller said.
Vendors from throughout the Medina area will offer a variety of foods, entertainment and activities.
Current vendors, some of which are regulars and others which come every other week, are Baker Farm, meat eggs and garlic powder; Bower Family Farm and Greenhouse, micro greens; Catherine Street Bakers, baked goods and jams; Dot’s Pantry (every other week), specialty savory relishes, jams, dressings and chutney; Flint’s Maple Products; Gardner’s Gardens Gourmet jams, fudge, cakes, herb blends and gourmet popcorn; Heartland Organics, mushrooms, organic coffee with Lions’ Mane, dried ground mushrooms and mushroom jerky; and Human Farms, asparagus and rhubarb (in season),eggs, chicken, barbecue sauce, spices, flower and tomato plants and other seasonal vegetables.
Also, LockRidge Apiary, honey; LynOaken Farms, 810 Meadworks, Black Button Distilling, Schulze Vineyards and Wintery and Mountain Mule Ciderhouse; Panek’s Pickin’ Patch, fruits and vegetables; and Flower Fields Forever, flower bouquets.
(Left) Erica Waniecski, left, and Michael Klepp, both Master Gardeners, manned the non-profit table for Cornell Cooperative Extension at the Canal Village Farmers’ Market. (Right) Canal Village Farmers’ Market manager Gail Miller watches Chloe Hill, 10, and Tegan Hill, 8, choose a prize for completing a scavenger hunt at the market on Saturday.
Dot’s Pantry also has several favorite items, including local cheese and Buffalo pepper products, as well as taking orders for perogies.
In addition, a space is reserved each week for a non-profit which wants to set up an informational table. Oak Orchard Health, Orleans Community Health and Master Gardeners are some who take advantage of this opportunity to inform the public, and more are being scheduled, Miller said.
This week, the community booth featured Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Master Gardeners, Erica Wanecski and Michael Klepp, who provided information on spring lawn care, pollinating, insects and native plants.
Cathie Valley oversees a Kids’ Tent, which provides fun activities for young children who accompany their parents to the market. A scavenger hunt keeps children busy and provides an opportunity to win a prize for finding all the items.
Arts and crafts will also be available at the market, including Rust and Dust Fabrication, 3BeesWax, pottery and more.
Randy Reese with Canalside Radio will begin broadcasting from the market on June 10.
Local realtor Rita Zambito will sponsor music at the market, featuring local musicians and groups.
The market is sponsored by Orleans Renaissance Group. Hours are from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Photo by Ginny Kropf: Peter Castricone and Vicky Albone of Medina pose by his 1961 Olds Cutlass which he recently purchased. He will be taking it to Friday night cruise-ins in the Canal Basin, which begin June 9.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 13 May 2023 at 5:09 pm
MEDINA – Cruise-ins in the Canal Basin have been a Friday night tradition in Medina for more than 25 years.
Dave Green of Medina has been involved since very early on, and for many years has organized the summer event. The first one of this season will be June 9. Official start is 5:30 to 7:30, but cars start arriving as early as 4 p.m., Green said.
Boy Scout Troop 35 will be in the basin, cooking hot dogs and hamburgers during the month of August. Green is waiting to confirm who will do the cooking in June and July.
Each Friday features 50/50 drawings, half of which goes to United Way of Orleans County, the event sponsor. DJ Hank Nevins provides the music weekly.
Between 80 and 100 cars visit the Canal Basin for the cruise-ins, with as many as 300 at the Super Cruise, which ends the summer event this year on Aug. 23 on Main Street. Terry Buchwald as Elvis will return to entertain at Super Cruise. Rain date is Aug. 24.
Peter Castricone of Medina wouldn’t miss a Friday night, he said. He has owned a 1991 Camaro convertible for nearly six years, but decided it was time to trade, and recently purchased a 1961 Olds Cutlass convertible (which he calls a “ragtop”) in mint condition. He and his friend Vicky Albone are looking forward to spending Friday nights visiting with other “gearheads” in the basin.
“I try to get there every Friday night,” Castricone said. “I love talking to all the guys about all the cars. Ninety percent of our conversations are about cars.”
“Some of the cars are amazing,” Albone said.
She enjoys the evenings as much as the guys.
Green has owned a variety of classic cars. His most recent is a 1973 Cougar Convertible.
Photos by Tom Rivers: Mike Thaine, director of the Albion High School band program, directs the group during an all-district concert on March 1 in the high school gym.
Posted 26 April 2023 at 8:45 am
Press Release, Albion Central School
ALBION – The school district has once again been named a Best Community for Music Education by the National Foundation of Music Merchants (NAMM), marking the 16th consecutive year to receive the recognition.
The award program honors outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students and community leaders who have made music education part of a well-rounded education.
There are 830 school districts across the country to receive the distinction this year, but few have sustained Albion’s excellence when it comes to music education. No other school in Orleans County received the recognition while only Pembroke made the list out of Genesee County. (Editor’s Note: Other nearby schools to receive the honor include Roy-Hart and Akron. Among the GLOW counties, Geneseo, Mount Morris, Perry and Pioneer also were honored.)
Albion prides itself on a long tradition of entertaining chorus, band and drama programs. This fall, the high school performed The World According to Snoopy and the middle school brought Dear Edwina to the stage. The concert season began with the annual high school Veteran’s Day event to honor our troops. Senior Tea, a long-standing tradition, showcased an array of musical talents as the class of 2023 showcased their vocal and instrumental skills.
Nick Andrews plays the role of Uncle Fester and sings a love song to the moon – “The Moon and Me” – in Albion’s production of The Addams Family in late March. Albion performs two musicals a year in both the high school and middle school. The high school spring show each year regularly receives many awards from the Stars of Tomorrow in the Rochester Broadway Theatre League.
The holiday season is always a festive time as each school hosts a holiday concert within the month of December. Right before winter break, select high school chorus and band members spent time in downtown businesses and streets caroling for the community. High school musicians also took part in the Hometown Holiday event this school year. Additionally, students and alumni performed for a packed audience at the annual Albion High School Alumni Foundation concert.
During both semesters, Albion was proud to send numerous students of all grades to the two All-County music festivals. Collaboration was key when band directors worked together to put on an all-district instrumental concert in early March in front of a standing room-only crowd in the high school gym.
The drama departments brought beloved characters to the stage this spring. First, the middle school transformed the auditorium into a distant land with The Jungle Book. Then, the high school performed a spectacular showing of The Addams Family. The latter included a live orchestra composed almost completely of current students, staff and Albion alumni.
Lindsey Almeter, elementary music teacher, leads the young musicians during the all-district concert on March 1.
Throughout the school day, all students from kindergarten through 12th grade are taught or given the opportunity to take a variety of music classes. High school students in the music history class enjoyed a tour of the Parsons Pipe Organ Builders during the school year while the high school choir welcomed guest conductors from the Eastman School of Music and Nazareth College. The district is also fortunate to include a musical therapist on staff.
Music remains a constant presence at Albion through the end of the school year with spring concerts scheduled in May and June. The Purple Eagle marching band will be on proud display at community events including the Strawberry Festival and Lilac Festival parades.
All musical events and performances throughout the school year are open to the public and, other than the four stage productions, are free to attend. The continual support and collaboration with alumni and community members helps keep music education alive and thriving.
Founded in 2006, the NAMM Foundation advances active participation in music making across the lifespan by supporting scientific research, philanthropic giving and public service programs. The organization represents the generosity and philanthropy of the music products industry and is funded through trade association activities and donations. For more information, visit NAMMFoundation.org.
BUFFALO – The Greater Niagara Frontier Council, Boy Scouts of America based in Buffalo and the Iroquois Trail Council, Boy Scouts of America based in Oakfield announced today that they will be merging as of May 1 to form the new Western New York Scout Council Inc., Boy Scouts of America.
“This is an exciting time for Scouting in WNY as we bring together the best of what both councils have to offer to better serve young people, families, and the community,” said Gary Decker, Scout Executive & CEO of the Greater Niagara Frontier Council. “Our councils have been working together for generations and this solidifies that partnership. Combining ensures that we continue to provide world-class program experiences for our Scouts long into the future.”
The newly combined council will serve youth from all of Erie, Niagara, Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming Counties, and most of Livingston County in Western New York and offer many benefits, including:
Improved program opportunities
Better support for volunteer leaders
A larger membership base to support a wider variety of events and activities
Greater financial sustainability
Two fully operational camp properties
“The combined strengths of our staff, volunteer leaders, and camp properties ensures that we’re uniquely prepared to deliver life-changing educational and character-building programs to young people and families across the entirety of Western New York,” added Jim McMullen, Scout Executive & CEO of the Iroquois Trail Council.
The WNY Scout Council will continue to operate two Scout service centers in Cheektowaga and Oakfield. The council will also operate two scout camps: Camp Scouthaven, in Freedom, and Camp Sam Wood in Portageville. (Editor’s Note: Camp Dittmer in Phelps will be closing as part of the merger. That camp hasn’t been operational since the start of Covid in March 2020.)
Decker, current Scout Executive & CEO of the Greater Niagara Frontier Council, will serve as the Scout Executive & CEO of the newly formed Council and James C. McMullen, current Scout Executive & CEO of the Iroquois Trail Council will serve as the Deputy Scout Executive & COO.
About Greater Niagara Frontier Council, BSA – The Greater Niagara Frontier Council serves more than 5,000 Scouts and adult volunteers in Erie County and the western third of Niagara County. The Council provides educational programs for boys and girls aged 5 to 20 to build character, to train in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and to develop personal fitness. The Scouting program in WNY has served more than half a million members since its incorporation in 1910.
About Iroquois Trail Council, BSA – The Iroquois Trail Council serves more than 1,500 Scouts and Adult Volunteers in Eastern Niagara, Genesee, Orleans, Wyoming, and Livingston counties in Western New York. With offices in Oakfield, NY, the council operates three districts across the five-county service area.
File photo: Tracy Jennings (left) of Papa Thom’s Rockin’ Bagels and Rose Baker of Baker Farms in Medina chat in November at the Canal Village Farmers’ Market in Medina. The market moved indoors for the winter at the former NAPA Auto Parts store on North Main Street.
Press Release, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Office
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a new initiative that will double the buying power for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program recipients at farmers’ markets across New York State.
The FreshConnect Fresh2You program will now provide eligible New Yorkers with a dollar-for-dollar match, which will allow families in need to purchase more healthy food, including produce, dairy and meats.
This new initiative will help to offset the recent reduction in SNAP benefits that were a part of pandemic relief efforts as well as record inflation costs, provide increased revenue for New York’s farmers, and boost local food sourcing while eliminating food scarcity, which are among the goals outlined in the Governor’s Executive Budget proposal and her State of the State address.
“New York has taken significant steps to develop strong, mutually-beneficial relationships between local farmers and the communities they feed,” Governor Hochul said. “The new Fresh2You initiative will help ensure New Yorkers have more money to spend on healthy foods like dairy, meat, produce and more, while creating greater health outcomes, an economic boost to New York’s farmers and a stronger food supply chain.”
The FreshConnect Fresh2You initiative will now provide SNAP beneficiaries at participating farmers’ markets with $2 checks for every $2 spent as part of the SNAP program, up from $2 for every $5 spent.
This new initiative is part of the long-standing FreshConnect Checks Program, which is administered by the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets. It helps expand access to fresh food in underserved communities, to improve the diet of individuals in those communities and to foster economic development by supporting local farmers. By allowing the purchase of dairy products, meats and more in addition to the purchase of fruits and vegetables, the FreshConnect program supports even more farmers across New York State.
Any farmer or vendor who is selling a SNAP-eligible food item at any farmers’ market, farm stand or mobile market operating in New York State may accept a FreshConnect Check and now take part in the Fresh2You initiative. Checks can be used to purchase dairy, produce, meats, fish, eggs and more.
The FreshConnect Fresh2You initiative will launch and be available to consumers April 15. Market operators will also be receiving new marketing materials and training on the new initiative.
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “We are excited to launch this new match program, understanding the significance of what this will mean to New York consumers and farmers alike. It will increase access to nutritious healthy foods, which will also have a direct benefit to our farmers and producers. I thank Governor Hochul for making this possible, and for her commitment to New York agriculture and strengthening the local food system.”
In addition to SNAP consumers, the FreshConnect Checks program is also available to veterans, service members and their immediate families to use the benefits at New York State farmers’ markets, farm stands and mobile markets. Veterans can receive $50 in FreshConnect coupons this year from New York State Department of Veterans’ Services offices.
About Farmers’ Markets in New York State
Farmers’ markets fill an essential gap in New York’s local food supply chains by improving access to and encouraging consumption of locally grown foods and supporting direct farmer-to-consumer transactions. Farmers’ markets, farm stands and mobile markets are crucial components to a healthy food system.
Today, New York has more than 400 farmers’ markets, 250 farm stands and 10 mobile markets. They provide outlets for agricultural producers to meet the rising consumer demand for a variety of fresh, affordable and convenient products grown directly from the farm.
The Department of Agriculture oversees the FreshConnect Checks (FCC) Program and the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Programs (FMNP), and maintains a list of farmers’ markets, farm stands, and mobile markets that participate in these programs.
Key
“FMNP Accepted” – A market that is authorized by the Department to participate in FMNP.
“FCC Issued” – A market that issues FreshConnect Checks to SNAP EBT card users.
“FCC Accepted” – A market that has vendors that may accept but does not issue FreshConnect Checks.
“SNAP Accepted” – A market where customers enrolled in SNAP may use their benefits.
Editor’s Note: The Department of Agriculture lists these farmers’ markets in Orleans County:
Canal Village Farmers’ Market, 345 Main St., Medina, open Saturdays year-round from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. – SNAP accepted, FMNP accepted, FCC issued and FCC accepted
Circle R Farm Market, 13490 Roosevelt Hwy, Waterport, open daily 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. from May 1-October 31 – FMNP accepted and FCC accepted
Lori’s Market Basket Farm Stand, 51 State St., Holley, open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. from May 1-November 30 – FCC accepted
Navarra’s Farm Market and Greenhouses, 3272 Eagle Harbor Rd., Albion, open year-round from Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. – SNAP accepted and FCC accepted
Roberts Farm Market, 11170 Maple Ridge Rd., Medina, open year-round Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., with winter hours Tuesday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. – FCC accepted
Saeva Farm Stand, 3715 Eagle Harbor Rd., Albion, open year-round daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. – FCC accepted
Provided photos: Master Food Preserver volunteer Karen DesJardin has taught the Intro to Canning class for the last two years. This year, she’ll be joined by fellow MFP volunteer Amy Payne.
Press Release, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Orleans County
ALBION – The Master Food Preservers of Orleans County CCE will be offering their popular “Intro to Canning And Review” class again this year on Wednesday, April 26, at 6 p.m.
Karen Desjardin and Amy Payne. MFP volunteers, will lead participants step-by-step through the basics of preserving food at home. They will show basic equipment needed to get started, as well as offer tried and true tips and tricks to ensure success.
“There seems to be a real interest in getting back to basics, growing and preserving food at home to help keep within food budgets,” Desjardin said. “I think it’s important to offer this class at no charge so that it’s accessible to everyone in our community. Preserving food using tested methods is important for the health and safety of our families. We will show participants where to find research-tested information and recipes so they can have confidence in preserving their own food at home.”
This is the third year that the Master Food Preserver volunteers have offered this Intro to Canning class. Each year the class fills up with new participants, showing the demand and need for this kind of education in Orleans County.
The class will be taught demonstration-style, with experienced volunteers explaining the processes of various methods of home food preservation. The goal is to equip participants with the knowledge to get started preserving at home.
Participants can bring their dial gauge pressure canner lids with them to the class to be tested for free.
Kristina Kleeh, an Orleans County resident who took the class last year, used the knowledge she gained to spend the entire summer canning various produce.
“I was a true beginner, but the information was presented in a positive and easy to understand way, and the instructor had a depth of experience to draw from,” Kleeh explained. “I was able to make great use of my garden last summer, and we’ve been enjoying beginner-level canned treats like dill pickles, salsa, sauce, and jams all year long now!”
In addition to a detailed description of the various methods of preserving foods at home, the MFP volunteers will have different canners and tools available on display for participants look at and ask specific questions about. There will also be an option for any participant to have their pressure canner tested for free during the class. Anyone attending the free informational class can bring their dial gauge pressure canner lid with them to have its accuracy verified.
“This class is really just a great jumpstart to the canning season,” said Katie Oakes, coordinator of the Master Food Preserver volunteers. “The class highlights the most important information for home food preservers, whether participants have no experience at all or have been canning for years, but maybe not with current methods and recipes. We are so lucky to have such experienced and highly trained volunteers available to offer these types of classes to the public.”
To register for the free Intro to Canning class or for more information about the Master Food Preserver program, call 585-798-4265 or email klo54@cornell.edu.
A variety of the canned goods preserved by Master Food Preservers in the past. Home food preservation is a great way to extend an abundant harvest and ensure food security beyond the growing season.
