By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 21 July 2026 at 3:47 pm
Photos courtesy of Western New York Skydiving
BARRE – Spurgeon “Butch” Carlson leaps from a plane on Sunday with Tim Allen, the owner of Western New York Skydiving. Carlson celebrated his 105th birthday by fulfilling a dream of going skydiving.
Butch Carlson is 14,000 feet up in airplane, getting ready to jump. The plane is based at Pine Hill Airport in Barre.
Carlson lives in Stockton, Chautauqua County, about a 2-hour drive from Pine Hill. Many of his family and friends came to the airport to see the jump.
Carlson celebrated his birthday last year by achieving another goal: riding horseback. He did that with his 99-year-old brother.
This year, Carlson had a loftier goal.
Western New York Skydiving took Carlson for the tandem jump after seeing a doctor’s note giving him medical clearance, Allen said.
Butch Carlson and Tim Allen come in for a landing at Pine Hill Airport.
Agency will be at the Orleans County 4-H Fair next week to discuss services
Press Release, Orleans Community Connects
KNOWLESVILLE – Orleans Community Connects, Inc. is helping residents gain the skills they need to thrive in today’s digital world through its free Digital Skills Education program, providing friendly, local support that empowers individuals and families to confidently use technology in their everyday lives.
The program is delivered by the Orleans County Cornell Cooperative Extension and is available to all Orleans County residents.
As more essential services move online, digital literacy has become critical for accessing healthcare, employment opportunities, government resources, financial services, and staying connected with family and friends. Through free group classes and personalized one-on-one assistance, participants can learn how to safely navigate the internet, use email and video calling platforms, access telehealth services, search and apply for jobs, and protect their privacy online.
“Digital skills are no longer optional – they are essential for participating in everyday life,” said Nyla Gaylord, executive director of Orleans Community Connects. “Our goal is to ensure every resident has the confidence and support needed to take advantage of the opportunities available online. Come visit us and NSN at the Orleans County Fair July 27th through Aug 1st inside the Lartz building for more information on these programs.”
In addition to digital skills education, Orleans Community Connects, Inc. is helping bridge the digital divide by connecting residents to affordable high-speed internet service through North Shore Networks, with plans starting at $25 per month, helping ensure that households have access to the connectivity needed to learn, work, and stay engaged.
The initiative is supported through ConnectALL, New York State’s historic effort to expand broadband access, affordability, and digital equity across the state. Funding for the deployment of internet service and Digital Skills Education was awarded to Orleans County through the ConnectALL program.
Residents interested in learning more about FREE Digital Skills Education or affordable internet options can visit OrleansCommunityConnects.org/Programs or call 585-283-4224.
About Orleans Community Connects
Orleans Community Connects, Inc. is dedicated to strengthening community connections and expanding access to resources that improve quality of life for Orleans County residents. Through partnerships with local organizations, the initiative works to increase digital inclusion, connectivity, and access to opportunities that support education, employment, healthcare, and community engagement.
About Empire State Development
Empire State Development is New York’s chief economic development agency, and promotes business growth, job creation, and greater economic opportunity throughout the state. With offices in each of the state’s 10 regions, ESD oversees the Regional Economic Development Councils, supports broadband equity through the ConnectALL office, and is growing the workforce of tomorrow through the Office of Strategic Workforce Development. The agency engages with emerging and next generation industries like clean energy and semiconductor manufacturing looking to grow in New York State, operates a network of assistance centers to help small businesses grow and succeed, and promotes the state’s world class tourism destinations through I LOVE NY. For more information, please visit esd.ny.gov, and connect with ESD on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 21 July 2026 at 11:58 am
POINT BREEZE – For the second straight week and third time this summer the Tuesday evening concert at the Orleans County Marine Park has been cancelled due to weather.
The Who Dats were scheduled to perform this evening, but the forecast shows rain, including a severe thunderstorm.
“We are SO SORRY to postpone yet another concert!” the oak Orchard Neighborhood Association posted on its Facebook account. “But we must keep everyone safe and protect all with the forecast of rain. We will celebrate at our next concert on August 4th with The Stone Age Romeos.”
Last week’s concert was and the June 30 events were rescheduled due to heat advisories.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 21 July 2026 at 11:18 am
Photos by Tom Rivers
ALBION – A contractor is expected to start next week on replacing the slate roof at Mount Albion chapel.
The Environmental Construction Group in Albion has removed asbestos from the roof.
The new roof will be a comparable Vermont slate. The Albion Village Board last September accepted a bid for $83,985 to remove the existing roof and replace all the Vermont slate. The slate is currently over by the Mount Albion garage across from the cemetery on Route 31.
The chapel is getting about $225,000 in restoration work. The building was constructed in 1875 with local Medina Sandstone.
The building is a focal point of the historic cemetery for people who enter through the main arch off Route 31.
Local mason Neal Muscarella last year completed some repointing of mortar on the building.
A drop ceiling was removed that revealed a vaulted ceiling had been covered up.
There will be other substantial work to follow including interior replaster of the north wall; electrical upgrades (wiring, outlets, internal and external lighting); heating unit for seasonal use; repair of plaster and vaulted ceiling; removal of old floor, repair subfloor and put in a new floor; and refurbish exterior doors and window trim.
A committee led by Village Historian Sue Starkweather Miller raised $225,000 for the chapel restoration.
Photos courtesy of Lyndonville Lions Club: Distant View performs before the Lyndonville fireworks on July 4.
Press Release, Lyndonville Lions Club
LYNDONVILLE – The Lions Club extends thanks for those who made the 52nd annual Lyndonville Lions Club July 4th Celebration a huge success. As the Lions dodged some early morning weather impediments, vehicle malfunctions and cancellations, the show went on.
The Lions Club would like to thank all who donated time, financial support and sweet equity to make this year’s event successful. It is estimated that during the daylong event over 12,000 people visited the streets of Lyndonville.
The evening Fire Cracker Concert Series saw a record crowd in no small part due to the local band Distant View” making their debut at this event. They did not disappoint as they had the crowd rocking right up until the commencement of the Lions fireworks show. The Lions would like to extend their appreciation for the band in doing double duty on July 4th.
The Lions introduced their lawn surfing contest this year at the Firecracker concert series. Surfers showed off their best surfing techniques as they did “cutbacks and top turns with snaps” to impress the crowd who shred on their efforts.
The Spalding family was honored for their contribution to the freedom of our country as the Honor Guard performed a long-awaited military ceremony recognizing the service of Mr. Nehemiah Spalding. He is the only Revolutionary War veteran buried in Lynhaven Cemetery. This event saw 4th, 5th and 6th generation family members see Mr. Spalding after 196 years receive his full military burial honors.
The Lyndonville Lions stand in appreciation to the American Legion Houseman-Tanner Post 1603 for their participation in this ceremony.
The club would like to express a special thanks to the Orleans County Sheriff’s Department and various law enforcement individuals for their efforts during this daylong event.
The Lyndonville Lions Club stayed true to its word by recognizing community members for their outstanding efforts during this year’s Light Up Lyndonville celebration.
A special thank you goes to the Village of Lyndonville Department of Public Works, whose hard work and preparation helped make the village shine throughout the event.
This year marked the debut of Light Up Lyndonville, a new addition to the community’s July 4th celebration. Main Street was illuminated in patriotic red, white, and blue, the Lyndonville waterfalls glowed with colorful lighting, and residents proudly displayed some of their best Independence Day decorations.
The response from the community exceeded expectations. The Lions Club felt that every participant deserved recognition for helping create such a festive atmosphere. To celebrate their efforts, the club awarded gift certificates to the owners of the top five decorated homes.
While all of the winners were deserving of recognition, the greatest success of the event was the community itself. The enthusiasm and participation of residents helped establish Light Up Lyndonville as an exciting new tradition that the Lions Club hopes will continue to grow for years to come.
The Lions Club especially wanted to recognize the aerial ladder truck and giant American Flag draped over Lyndonville’s Main Street during the parade as the Grand Champion. So, the Lions extend a special thank you to Mr. James Panek and Panek Farms for their participation in this year’s event.
In closing, a “Community Thank You” concert and summer cook out was held at the Town of Yates Park to show appreciation to all those who have supported the Lyndonville Lions during their 2026 campaign.
A crowd favorite, Crash Cadillac, brought their special musical talents and entertained all attendees well into the evening under the cool breeze of the Lake Ontario shores. Attendees were treated to ice cold beverages and hot dogs as they enjoyed the music and some relief from the smokey air conditions more pronounced further inland.
Local scouts from Troop 28 in Medina are back home after a nine-day backpacking trek at a high adventure camp in Philmont, New Mexico.
The group is shown after summitting the Trail Peak Mountain with an elevation of 10,250 feet.
The Troop 28 crew consisted of 10 individuals: Matthew Jacobs, Joey Brueckner, Gideon Pask, Aidyn Jackson, Tony Anelli, Tyler Draper, Eli Pask, Matthew Anelli, Jay Metcalf and Todd Draper.
Philmont is a high adventure Scout camp on a functioning 140,177 acre (220 square miles) ranch in the Rocky Mountains. Philmont has been operating since 1939 as America’s largest premiere scouting destination along the original Santa Fe Trail in New Mexico.
Philmont operates 35 staffed camps and 55 trail camps, with 315 miles of trails across rugged mountain terrain. Philmont is designed to challenge participants mentally, physically and emotionally while delivering wilderness and learning adventures that last a lifetime. Approximately 22,000 scouts travel to Philmont each summer for trekking adventures.
Troop 28, who is sponsored by the Medina United Methodist Church, traveled to Philmont Scout Ranch from July 9 to July 18. Prior to the trek, while acclimating to the elevation and climate, the crew went white water rafting on the Arkansas River in Colorado.
While at Philmont, Troop 28’s crew hiked over 53 miles in nine days, carrying their food, water, shelter and supplies in backpacks ranging from 40-50 lbs. They summited Trail Peak Mountain at an elevation of 10,250 feet and the landmark Tooth of Time peak at 9,003 feet.
The crew had the opportunity to take part in many adventure programs including archery, low and high COPE courses (Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience), fly fishing, and homesteading.
Scouts took in breathtaking views and sunrises, and even had a memorable close encounter with an adult black bear. In addition to all these adventures, participants completed a 3-hour outdoor conservation project.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 20 July 2026 at 9:15 pm
Photos from City of Rochester
ROCHESTER – Firefighters stand and salute during the funeral procession on July 15 for Lieutenant John “JJ” Joseph of the Rochester Fire Department. Joseph graduated from Kendall and started as a Kendall firefighter before joining the Rochester FD 18 years ago.
Photo from Local 1071: John “JJ” Joseph joined the Rochester Fire Department when he was 19 and served 18 years with the RFD.
“JJ” Joseph was 37 years old. He died on July 7 from occupational cancer from his career as a firefighter.
His father Bart Joseph also has been active with the Kendall Fire Department and is retired from a 39-year career as a Rochester firefighter.
The Kendall Fire Department brought a contingent of personnel to the funeral and also a Kendall fire truck. Lt. Joseph was honored at his funeral at the Blue Cross Arena.
The Kendall FD posted on its Facebook page that Joseph began his journey in the fire service at Kendall.
“While his career eventually led him to the Rochester Fire Department, he never forgot where it all began, and we will always be proud to call him one of our own,” the Kendall Fire Department posted. “John’s courage, dedication, and servant’s heart will continue to inspire us. His memory will ride with us every time the tones sound, every time we climb aboard the truck, and every time we answer the call to help someone in need.”
Joseph worked at Engine 5 for most of his career and was the union secretary for Rochester Fire Fighters Local 1071.
“He is a young man and friend to many, an extremely hard worker, a strong advocate for our union members and a great firefighter,” Local 1071 posted on its Facebook page. “Please keep his family and the RFD in mind.”
Joseph was laid to rest at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Rochester.
The Rochester Fire Department posted this statement following the death of Lt. Joseph:
“Our thoughts are with his family, friends, loved ones, and every member of the Rochester Fire Department as we grieve the loss of our beloved brother.
“The bond shared by firefighters extends far beyond the walls of the firehouse. In moments like these, we are reminded that we are a family, united by service, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to one another.
“On behalf of the Rochester Fire Department, we extend our deepest condolences to all who are mourning this tremendous loss. May Lieutenant Joseph’s memory be a source of strength and comfort to all who knew him, and may his example continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.”
People are welcome to make a donation to the Joseph family through an online fundraiser by The Yard Foundation, which is focused on helping firefighters and their families. Click here for more information.
A Rochester fire truck carried the turnout gear for Lt. Joseph during his funeral procession.
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) will host three town hall meetings on Saturday, providing residents with an opportunity to receive updates on state and local issues, ask questions and share their concerns.
“Meeting with residents in our communities is one of the most important parts of serving in the Assembly,” said Hawley. “These town halls are an opportunity to discuss what’s happening in Albany, answer questions, hear concerns firsthand and learn more about the issues that matter most to local families. I encourage everyone to stop by and join the conversation.”
Residents from throughout the community are welcome to attend any of the meetings. Hawley looks forward to hearing directly from constituents and providing updates on issues affecting Genesee County and New York State.
The town hall meetings for July 25 include:
Town and Village of Elba from 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at Elba Town Hall, 7133 Oak Orchard Rd., Elba
Town of Byron from 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at Byron Town Hall, 7028 Byron Holley Rd., Byron.
Town and Village of Bergen from 12 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. at Byron-Bergen Public Library, 13 S. Lake Ave., Bergen.
Provided photo: Orleans County Legislators Lynne Johnson and Skip Draper, near center, join other county leaders from across New York for the National Association of Counties (NACo) Annual Conference in New Orleans.
Press Release, Orleans County government
Orleans County Legislature Chairman Lynne Johnson and Legislator Skip Draper today joined a delegation of county leaders from across the state to represent New York at the National Association of Counties (NACo) Annual Conference in New Orleans. Thousands of county officials from across the United States are taking part in the event.
The conference includes dozens of committee and caucus meetings, educational workshops, general sessions and more. Sessions will offer learning and practical insights on the full range of county responsibilities and domestic policy issues.
“The breadth of subject matter experts discussing issues that impact us locally makes this conference extremely important and worthwhile,” Johnson said. “Just today, conference topics included accessing federal transportation dollars, using data to improve youth mental health services and new strategies for affordable housing. These are the real nuts and bolts issues of governing and thankfully, it’s completely free of partisan politics.”
Johnson said that two sessions were of particular interest to Orleans County. The first was the Great Lakes Regional Forum, where Johnson shared information on the joint county dredging council she helps lead with Niagara County.
The second was a meeting of Justice and Public Safety Committee where officers with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) did a presentation on the proliferation of 3-D weapons. Johnson, who noted she and Draper both serve on the committee, said ATF officers will be coming to Albion to instruct local law enforcement on the issue.
Legislator Draper said that beyond the impressive guest speakers and presenters, the conference offers ample opportunity to talk with county leaders from different parts of the country on addressing mutual issues and challenges.
“Orleans County’s participation in the conference with other New York officials strengthens our ability to share ideas, learn what’s working in other communities, and return with proven solutions that benefit the people we serve,” said Draper.
The National Association of Counties (NACo) represents the interests of America’s counties, serving as a powerful voice in federal policymaking and a vital part of our nation’s intergovernmental system. With a membership of thousands of county elected and professional officials, NACo brings together leaders from across the country to shape national policies, share best practices and strengthen counties for a stronger America.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 20 July 2026 at 5:59 pm
Photo by Ginny Kropf: Members of the Albion Elks Club presented a check to the Orleans County Veterans’ Van Service this morning. From left are Scott Galliford, commander of Holley’s Jewell Buckman American Legion Post; April Flesch, chair of the Elks Grants Committee; Mike Donahue, commander of the Albion VFW Post No. 635; Marvin and Joan Christ, members of the Grants Committee; David Kusmierczak, chairman of the Orleans County Joint Veterans Council; Jack Miles, volunteer driver; Sharon Pollock, member of Albion Elks Club; and Rick Ebbs, commander of the American Legion Sheret Post in Albion.
ALBION – The July meeting of the Orleans County Joint Veterans’ Council this morning was preceded by a donation from Albion Elks Club to the Orleans County Veterans’ Van Service.
The check for $1,000 was presented by Elks Grants Committee chair April Flesch to David Kusmierczak, chairman of the Orleans County Joint Veterans’ Council. Attending the presentation were Scott Galliford, commander of Holley’s Jewell Buckman American Legion Post; Mike Donahue, commander of the Albion VFW Post 635; Grants committee members Marvin and Joan Christ; Jack Miles, a volunteer driver for the van service; Sharon Pollock, member of Albion Elks Club; Rick Ebbs, commander of the American Legion Sheret Post in Albion; Phyllis Schrader, who oversees the Veterans’ Van Service; and Jackie Lonnen, treasurer of the Orleans County Joint Veterans’ Council.
The presentation took place at the American Legion Sheret Post on Gaines Basin Road, where the Joint Veterans’ Council held its July meeting.
Schrader was very grateful for the donation, saying one of the van service’s five vans is currently out of service, having been involved in a minor fender-bender. It is currently in Buffalo for repairs.
Schrader reported 384 veterans were transported to medical appointments in June; 68 trips were made; 3,098 miles were traveled; and 417 hours were worked by 29 volunteer drivers.
Kusmierczak announced tickets were being sold to benefit the Veteran’s Christmas Drive, which Al Kepner of Medina chairs. Tickets are 2 for $5 or five for $10. Prizes, in addition to $400, $100 and $50 with frame, include gift cards, a 250 USA anniversary quilt, dog and cat basket, a Coleman rod trip grill, and assorted baskets.
The drawing will be Sept. 5.
It was also announced that WNY Heroes Inc. will provide free breakfast to veterans at Cuppa Joe’s, 114 East Center St., Medina, on the third Friday of every month. Veterans must sign up by e-mailing events@wnyheroes.org or calling (716) 630-5020, ext. 209.
Veterans are also reminded the American Legion Patriot Trip XVIII to Washington, D.C., hosted by Assemblyman Steve Hawley, is scheduled Sept. 17-20. Anyone wishing to join the trip should call (585) 5780 or e-mail tarriej@nyassembly.gov as soon as possible.
Photos courtesy of Medina Fire Department: Hazmat Teams responded to a chemical leak at Pride Pak today. The site is a vegetable processing facility.
Press Release, Village of Medina Fire Department
MEDINA – The Medina Fire Department was dispatched to Pride Pak at 7:29 a.m. for a male with chemical burns to his face.
Medina firefighters including Fire Chief Steve Cooley made the initial response. Once on site, Cooley requested a a fire response, bringing Engine 11 and an off-duty recall for Engine 12 and additional manpower.
Shortly after, several additional patients were identified and off-duty firefighters brought the other two in service ambulances to the scene.
Initial reports indicated a pump malfunction released a chemical that splashed a male and another coworker was exposed while assisting the victim and shutting down the pump, which helped limit the spill.
Several others reported the chemical had aerosolized, creating a cloud in the chemical room. Chief Cooley ordered the building evacuated and requested Hazmat Response. With the assistance of Orleans 1 (Emergency Management Coordinator Justin Niederhofer), the Niagara County Hazmat Team, including the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station Hazmat Team and the Genesee County Hazmat Team, were dispatched. Niagara County EMS Ambulance responded with the hazmat team.
The chemical was identified as Bioside HS 15%. Upon entry, Hazmat teams located a spill approximately 25 by 10 feet on the floor. They mitigated the spill, secured the equipment and utilized facility systems to clean the room. Medina crews assisted with ventilation and decontamination.
Chief Cooley requested Middleport Fire for an engine, and Wolcottsville Fire responded with a BLS ambulance. Together they provided standby coverage at the Medina Fire Station during the incident. During that time, a walkup to the station reporting an odor of natural gas on South Avenue was handled by Middleport and Medina Ambulance 62.
There were a total of three patients. Two were transported by Medina Ambulance to Strong Memorial Hospital and one refused treatment on scene.
We extend our sincere appreciation to all the agencies listed above including Orleans County Sheriffs Dispatch, Orleans County Emergency Management Office, Genesee County ESU, Niagara County Hazmat Team, Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station Hazmat Team, Niagara County EMS, Niagara County EMO, Middleport Fire Department, Wolcottsville Fire Department, NYS DEC and NYS OFPC.
Medina Fire Department worked with other first responders to mitigate a spill at Pride Pak, 11531 Maple Ridge Rd.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 20 July 2026 at 10:27 am
Photo by Tom Rivers: George Avery was re-elected as vice president of the Lyndonville Board of Education last week. He led the board meeting because newly elected president Joanne Suhr was on vacation in Hawaii. She was able to attend the meeting through video conferencing. District Clerk Tanya Marek is at right.
LYNDONVILLE – The Board of Education has picked a new president. Joanne Suhr, a retired Lyndonville teacher, will lead the seven-member board during the 2026-27 school.
Joanne Suhr
Suhr received four votes during last week’s organizational meeting. Patrick Whipple, the board president the past school year, received two votes. One of the board members, Vern Fonda, was late for the vote due to coaching a baseball game. Fonda voted for Whipple about a year ago to be president.
Suhr secured for votes to be president from herself, James Houseman, Megan Bruning and new board member, Dana Goetze.
Whipple had votes from himself and George Avery, who was re-elected to serve as vice president. Goetze replaced Jerod Thurber on the board, and he backed Whipple as president for the 2025-26 school year.
Suhr attended the meeting from 4,600 miles away in Hawaii through videoconferencing.
“Thank you for my appointment,” she told the board. “I don’t take it lightly. Patrick, thank you. You did a great job.”
Whipple, the director of professional learning services for the Genesee Valley BOCEs in Batavia, said he was thankful for the chance to lead the board the past year.
“I know Joanne will do a great job,” he said.
Photo by Tom Rivers: Joanne Suhr was able to be part of the meeting last week through video conferencing. She could hear what was happening and was able to vote, ask questions and make comments.
The district will be operating with a contingency budget this school year after a $19,194,000 budget was rejected twice by the public – on May 19 by a 172-129 vote and then again on June 16 with a 327-292 vote.
The Board of Education last week approved $266,495 in cuts needed to meet the threshold of a contingency budget.
“We’ll have challenges but we’ll pull through and we’ll do amazing things for our district,” said George Avery, the board vice president.
He said he looks forward to working with Suhr. The board throughout the school year will have to be very budget conscious, Avery said.
“We’ll have to look at everything through fiscal responsibility and the strategic plan, and find a balance,” he said.
The board approved one change for the new school year: the board meetings will start at 6:30 p.m. instead of 7. Many of the local municipalities and school districts have moved from 7 p.m. start times to 6 p.m. The 6 p.m. start time was a little too early for some board members, but they agreed to 6:30.
Vern Fonda, one of the board members, said many of the district sporting events start at 5 and preferred a later meeting start, rather than 6 p.m.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 20 July 2026 at 8:40 am
The average price for regular unleaded is at $4.00 in the United States, which is up 13 cents from a week ago, AAA reported this morning. In new York State, the average price is at $4.15, up 7 cents in the past week.
A year ago the average price nationally was $3.14 while it was $3.18 in New York State.
“Instability along the Strait of Hormuz is contributing to the increase at the pump and pushing crude oil prices toward $80 per barrel,” AAA said in a news release. “However, prices are lower than they were in the spring when the national average peaked at $4.56 on May 21. Local prices are mixed as state prices in New York remain higher than the national average.”
Here are the average prices in counties around Western New York:
Orleans, $4.245
Genesee, $4.187
Monroe, $4.210
Niagara, $4.233
Erie, $4.233
Wyoming, $4.278
Livingston, $4.289
Chautauqua, $4.236
Cattaraugus, $4.013
Allegany, $4.220
The highest price is at Hamilton County, $4.499, a gallon while the lowest price, $4.012, is at Schoharie County, according to AAA.
Diesel prices are up this week, with the national average at $5.11, up 23 cents from last week. Last year at this time, the national average price for diesel fuel was $3.73. The New York average for diesel fuel is $5.48, up 5 cents from last week, and up from $3.93 last year, AAA said.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 19 July 2026 at 10:44 pm
Congregation serves 3,000 hot dogs for a penny apiece
Photos by Tom Rivers
EAST SHELBY – It was another enormous crowd today for the annual Old-Fashioned Day celebration at the East Shelby Community Bible Church.
Many come for hot dogs, slices of pie, lemonade and other treats – all served for only a penny. The event draws an estimated 2,000 people although no one keeps a head count. The church welcomes people for fun and fellowship.
The annual event has helped the church grow from about 30 people when it opened in 1988 to a thriving group of about 200 now.
This trio served visitors of the West Jackson Corners Post Office, where letters to Santa could be sent for a penny and prayers (messages to God) were offered for free. From left include Audrey Pask, Brie Trembley and Olivia Falker.
Evelyn June Phillips of Attica makes a candle at the candle-making station.
Many people while to try making a candle.
The East Shelby Community Bible Church first started doing an open house in 1990 when the community was welcome to see how the congregation had worked to revive the church building. The event has grown into a big festival on the grounds.
A horse-drawn wagon displays an American flag. This year’s Old-Fashioned Day had a strong patriotic feel for the country’s 250th anniversary.
The church dedicated a new flag pole after church today and is displaying a 13-star flag.
Erik Lang helps serve 3,000 hot dogs. He is joined under the tent by Ken Baker, center, and Steve Nesbitt, at right.
Lang’s father Alfred Lang was best friends with the church’s long-time pastor, Erik Olsen. Lang’s parents named him after Erik Olsen.
Olsen passed away from cancer at age 70 on November 17, 2025. He preached a sermon eight days before that.
Amy Joyner holds a jar of strawberry rhubarb made by Sue Coon that won the homemade jam contest.
Levi Olsen presides over the jam-making contest. He has succeeded his father as the church’s pastor. He said his father is missed by the congregation. Erik Olsen would be happy to see Old-Fashioned Day continuing to bring the community together. Levi Olsen said the event and church are all about bringing glory to God, and not a person.
Rick Hale of Batavia brought a large collection of guns from the 1500s to 1800s including an air gun made between 1700 and 1710 in London. It was similar to the gun used by Lewis and Clark on their expedition, hale said.
A section of East Shelby Road, south of the church, was closed to traffic after part of the road was washed out in Saturday’s big downpour. An East Shelby firefighter said 5 1/2 inches of rain fell in 3 hours, and washed out the underneath of the road.
