MEDINA – GLOW YMCA has announced a weeklong celebration Oct. 5-9  across Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming counties to promote connection, wellness, education and healthy living at every stage of life.

Healthy Aging Week is a community-wide celebration designed to support and celebrate healthy aging at every stage of life, according to information from Erik Fix, president and CEO of the GLOW YMCA.

Throughout the week, branches in Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming counties will offer educational presentations, wellness activities, community resources and opportunities for connection tailored to the needs of each local community.

In Medina, the YMCA will offer free coffee and snacks in the lobby on Monday.

On Tuesday, a group exercise pop-up class will introduce Tabata, an exercise which is done in intervals, said Andrew Houseman, director of the Medina YMCA.

A vendor fair on Wednesday will feature community resources, including a third-party membership information table, Community Action of Orleans and Genesee Weatherization, NYLife Insurance, a technology support booth, Medina Historical Society and hospital resources.

“This is a great opportunity to showcase our events,” Houseman said.

All activities are described on their Facebook page, he said.

Modeled after the YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day, but designed with adults in mind, Healthy Aging Week is more than a traditional senior event. It is an invitation for community members to experience the YMCA as a place where aging is celebrated, relationships are strengthened and healthy living is supported throughout every stage of life.

“Healthy aging is about more than fitness,” Fix said. “It’s about staying connected, informed and supported as we move through life. Healthy Aging Week gives each of our branches an opportunity to bring together local partners, resources and activities that respond to the needs of their community, while demonstrating that the Y is a place where people can grow stronger in spirit, mind and body at every age.”

Healthy Aging Week reflects the GLOW YMCA’s commitment to meeting people where they are and providing opportunities to remain active, informed and connected throughout their lives. By partnering with organizations in each county, the YMCA hopes to introduce community members to resources they may not otherwise know are available, while creating meaningful opportunities to build relationships.

Community members are encouraged to participate in activities at any GLOW YMCA branch throughout the week.

‘You don’t have to play through the pain’

Press Release, Roy-Hart Central School

Hannah Songy

MIDDLEPORT – Originally from Texas and a recent graduate of Texas A&M University, Hannah Songy, MS, LAT, ATC, is bringing her passion, knowledge, and experience in athletic training to the Rams this year.

Songy earned her master’s degree in Athletic Training from Texas A&M in May, and Roy-Hart is her first professional position following graduation.

During her undergraduate and graduate years, she completed clinical rotations with a variety of athletic programs. Her experience included working with Texas A&M’s football team, Dance Science Program, and track and field team, as well as local high school athletes.

Songy serves as Roy-Hart’s full-time athletic trainer through UBMD Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine. She provides athletic training coverage for nearly every Roy-Hart sport, with the exception of football, which is partnered with Barker and has its own athletic training coverage.

But for Songy, athletic training is about more than simply treating injuries when they happen. As fall sports enter their preseason schedules, Songy is working with teams on exercises focused on areas where athletes can build strength and reduce their risk of injury. She also uses recovery methods such as taping and bracing to support athletes as they heal.

“When we can prevent injuries and strengthen the muscles to make the injury easier to recover from, that is always the goal.” Songy said. “I want to do everything I can to support athletes the best way possible.”

She is particularly looking forward to building relationships with Roy-Hart athletes and supporting them throughout their seasons, while being visible and available to both athletes and coaches.

“I am going around, checking in with coaches to see if there’s anything they are concerned about with their athletes,” Songy said. “I want to remind them that I am here. You don’t have to play through the pain. I can help you.”

Moving from a Division I university to a smaller high school district has given Songy the opportunity to experience athletic training from a different perspective. At Texas A&M, she worked with very large, specialized athletic programs. At Roy-Hart, she works with a variety of sports and takes on a wider role with athletes and coaches.

“I can use the different skills I’ve learned in sports performance and physical therapy to teach athletes. It is all encompassing,” she said.

Although Songy is new to Western New York, she said the Roy-Hart community has made the transition a welcoming one.

“Everyone has been super excited for me to be here, and it’s been really nice.”

File photos by Tom Rivers: At last year’s Ale in Autumn on Sept. 27, there were beer tastings at Modern Mercantile from Talking Cursive in Syracuse. They were served by Holly Lederhouse, left, and Bekah Osher.

MEDINA – The air is cooler; days are getting shorter; and Ale in Autumn is just around the corner. A sure sign of fall.

For 15 years, Ale in Autumn has heralded the season in Medina, originally started by the Medina Business Association, now known as Medina Area Partnership.

The event has regularly been a sellout, according to Ann Fisher-Bale, event coordinator for MAP, but tickets are still available for this week’s event, scheduled Saturday. Tickets may be purchased on MAP’s website, in person at A Lily and a Sparrow at 438 Main St. or at check-in.

Participants must check in beginning at 1 p.m. at the Senior Center at 615 West Ave. Start times are staggered at 1, 2 and 3 o’clock to minimize congestion. The event concludes at 6 p.m.

Check-in includes being ID’d, receiving a wrist band, getting a gift bag and commemorative beer glass, and the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win prizes at each location. Someone will win the grand prize valued at $500.

Ale in Autumn is designed to encourage folks to shop, dine and/or stay in Medina, Fisher-Bale said. There will be 20 pourings in all.

Proceeds benefit Medina’s beautification efforts, scholarships to Leadership Orleans and Medina High School.

“This is a great way to experience Medina’s seasonal flavor with friends and visit participating businesses,” Fisher-Bale said.

A commemorative glass from the 2025 Ale in Autumn has a light beer, Oktoberfest, from Meier’s Creek Brewing Company in Cazenovia. This photo is inside the Medina Triennial Hub in the former NAPA building on Main Street.

Mediator will try to bring 2 sides together on 5-year agreement

Photo by Tom Rivers: This sign on West State Street shows support for Albion teachers for a new contract with the school district.

ALBION – The Albion Teachers’ Association and the school district are about $1.4 million apart as they try to reach agreement in a new five-year contract. That is less than $300,000 a year in what teachers are seeking and the district is proposing.

Both sides would like to reach a deal soon. The teachers have declared an impasse and an arbitrator will try to bring the teachers and district to agreement.

Albion teachers are seeking raises that reflect the cost-of-living increases and also the extra workload as the district demands more time each day for teachers to be in the classroom. (The first year of the contract would be an extra 10 minutes, and then 20 minutes from years 2 to 5.)

“As a union we would like to work this out with the district,” said Bruce Pritchett, a middle school social studies teacher and vice president of the union. “They are our colleagues. We don’t want strife. We want to get back to being 100 percent focused on kids.”

Mickey Edwards, the district superintendent, was an art teacher at Albion and a member of the Albion Teachers Association before going into school administration. Edwards said he values the teachers and wants them to be fairly paid.

The new contract needs to allow the district to stay within the state-imposed tax cap of about 2 percent annually. The new contract will set the floor for future contracts and the commitment from local taxpayers, Edwards said.

“My hope is we reach a conclusion that is fair and fiscally responsible for both parties and the community,” he said. “It’s about sustainability and being fair to the community.”

Albion hasn’t increased what it collects in property taxes in 18 of the last 20 years. The district has benefitted from steady increases in state aid, but Edwards said there is no guarantee that will continue in the future with the state.

“Every year you don’t know what’s coming out of the Governor’s Office,” he said.

The teachers have been without a contract for over a year. They still get their regular step increases and all other benefits while there isn’t a contract except teachers on the highest step of 24 because there isn’t a step increase for them. The district said the steps are an average of 3.8 percent (ranging from 2.6 to 10.6 percent).

The district is proposing in the new contract the regular pay hikes with step increases, plus additional raises of 6.9 percent in the first year, 3.3 percent in the second year, 3.5 percent the third year, 3.3 percent the fourth year and 3.4 percent in the fifth year. The total increase over the 5 years would be 22.1 percent or $2,742,032.

The ATA is seeking a contract that would be about $1.4 million over what the district is offering. The ATA is seeking the usual salary steps plus a 4.8 percent increase the first year, and then 10 percent the second year, 5.7 percent the third year, 4.7 percent the fourth year and 4.7 percent the fifth year.

The ATA negotiating team on Nov. 26 agreed to the district’s contract offer. The district and ATA’s negotiating team reached a tentative agreement on Nov. 26. But that agreement was rejected by a 3-to-1 ratio on Dec. 11 by teachers, who have since picked a new negotiating team.

The team met with district leaders and representatives three times in June but were unable to resolve differences. The ATA then declared an impasse.

The district wants teachers to work more instructional time because the district currently is close to the 990-hour minimum for the elementary school and 900-hour minimum for secondary levels, Edwards said. If there is a snow day or other emergency, Albion is cutting it very close to meet the minimum standard, Edwards said.

Longer school days for teachers

The district wants two extra days for teachers with the school year for conference days and also wants to add 10 more minutes of classroom instruction the first year of the agreement and then 20 minutes beginning the following four years. Edwards said it will be determined how the extra time will be added, perhaps with earlier start times of the school day and later end times.

Pritchett said that added time represents 4.7 percent more time in the classroom for teachers. The contract should reflect that additional workload, as well as the cost-of-living increases that he said are about 4 percent.

The district in recent years has underspent its budget on teacher salaries, which has helped the district amass about $52 million in reserves, Pritchett said. The past school year, the district underspent the total $45 million budget by about $9.5 million, he said. The State Comptroller’s Office has faulted the district for having too much money in reserves.

The teachers union wants to see the district spend what it budgets on teacher salaries and other needs in the district, Pritchett said.

“I don’t think we are being unreasonable,” he said. “If they just spend what they have earmarked for teachers.”

Impasse declared, next steps

On June 24, the district team and ATA met without resolving their issues. The ATA declared an impasse.

The district first wanted to address four matters previously identified: physician verification of sick leave, sick leave bank committee representation, nonresident children’s enrollment, and the extracurricular activities schedule.

Since the impasse was declared, the Public Employment Relations Board has appointed a mediator, Gregory Poland, to meet with both parties and narrow the issues in dispute.

If mediation does not resolve the impasse, a neutral fact-finder holds hearings, reviews each party’s position, and issues public, non-binding recommendations for settlement.

The parties may reach agreement at any stage – during mediation, after fact-finding, or through continued direct bargaining, the district was advised during last week’s Board of Education meeting by Karl Kristoff, a labor relations specialist for Orleans/Niagara BOCES.

Pritchett said the ATA would like to see the contract be settled without going into a drawn-out mediation process. A date hasn’t been set by the mediator for the two sides to meet. He has been told it could be three to six months before the mediator sets up a meeting.

“I would love to work this out before Thanksgiving,” Pritchett said. “It would be another thing to be thankful for. We are willing to sit down and discuss time and money, which are the two biggest issues, and then discuss the other things.”

Pictured from left include Marlene Hill, Joe Barchet and Sienna Garcia Mathewson

Press Release, Arc GLOW

BATAVIA — Arc GLOW will hold its fourth Annual Awards Dinner and Meeting on Oct. 14 at Batavia Downs, and the honorees include three from Orleans County.

Taking place 4:30 p.m. Oct. 14 at Batavia Downs, Rebecca LeClair, a former Rochester local news anchor, will be the emcee. Arc GLOW’s entertainment will be provided by some of the talented people supported. In August, Arc GLOW invited nominations of staff members, people supported and community members for a variety of different awards.

The 2026 award winners are the following:

• Volunteer of the Year – Marlene Hill, Arc GLOW’s board of director

Honors a volunteer who exemplifies Arc GLOW’s mission through dedicated service, compassion, and a commitment to helping individuals and communities thrive. This award recognizes a person whose contributions create positive and lasting impacts on those we serve.

• Self-Direction Person of the Year – Sienna Garcia Mathewson, Orleans County

Honors a person supported by Arc GLOW who demonstrates initiative, leadership and active community involvement.

• Outstanding Citizenship Award – Joe Barchet, Orleans County

Honors a person supported by Arc GLOW who demonstrates kindness, respect, responsibility, and a commitment to making a positive difference in their community through their actions, relationships and involvement.

• Self-Advocate of the Year – Casey Reynolds, Batavia

Recognizes an individual who uses their voice to advocate for themselves and others, promote inclusion and inspire positive change in their community.

• Supported Employment Person of the Year – Adam Wapniewski, Yancey’s Fancy, Genesee

Honors a person supported by Arc GLOW who has demonstrated a strong work ethic, dedication to their job, the ability to learn and apply new employment skills, and sustained success in community-based employment.

• Pre-Vocational Person of the Year – Tyler Heiman, Leicester

Honors a person supported by Arc GLOW who demonstrates a commitment to learning new job skills, producing quality work, maintaining attention to tasks, and preparing for success in future employment opportunities.

• Residential Person of the Year – Sabrina Lechander, Sanford IRA in Perry

Honors a person supported by Arc GLOW who lives in an Arc GLOW IRA and has shown growth in independence, developed important life skills, and made meaningful progress toward achieving personal goals and greater self-sufficiency.

• Day Habilitation Person of the Year – Adam Russell, Uptown Day Habilitation in Mt. Morris

Honors a person supported by Arc GLOW who demonstrates enthusiasm for learning, consistent effort in Day Habilitation activities, and a commitment to building skills and meaningful connections within their community.

• Community Services Person of the Year – Kimberly Wallace, Wyoming County

Honors a person supported by Arc GLOW who embrace new experiences, contribute positively to their communities, and promote inclusion through their actions and engagement.

• KidStart Employee of the Year – Stephanie Metz, vice president of Children’s Services

Honors a KidStart employee who demonstrates outstanding support for children and families, a commitment to early childhood education, and a dedication to nurturing growth, learning, and success in all areas of development.

• Direct Support Professional Person of the Year (DSP) – Dan Crofts, direct support professional at IGNITE program in SUNY Genesee Community College

Honors a Direct Support Professional who provides outstanding support to individuals with developmental disabilities through person-centered services, skill-building opportunities, community inclusion, and a commitment to helping people achieve their goals and live fulfilling lives.

• Employee of the Year – Ashely Coe, residential manager at Garibaldi IRA

To recognize an employee of Arc GLOW who is committed to the mission and vision. They demonstrate the values of diversity, respect, integrity, visionary, equality, empowerment and excellence.

• Exceptional Leadership Award – Cathy Sullivan, program quality assurance coordinator

Honors an employee who exemplifies exceptional leadership, professionalism, and commitment to Arc GLOW’s mission. This award recognizes a person who inspires others, promotes teamwork, and consistently demonstrates integrity, vision, and excellence in their work.

• Friend of the Year – Livingston County Office for the Aging

Honors a community friend and supporter who demonstrates a strong commitment to Arc GLOW’s mission and vision through advocacy, partnership, volunteerism, or philanthropic support that positively impacts those we serve.

• Business Partner of the Year – Bob Johnson Auto Group

Honors a business partner that supports Arc GLOW’s mission and vision through exemplary customer service, strong community partnership, and the creation of meaningful employment opportunities for the individuals we serve.

Reservations are open until Oct. 2. at ArcGLOW.org/Event/2026-Annual-Awards-Dinner-and-Meeting. For any questions, contact Tracey Jones at (585) 343-1123 ext. 1735 or TJones@ArcGLOW.org.

Tuesday marks the start of autumn

Photo by Marsha Rivers: These swans are out in Lake Ontario near the Oak Orchard Harbor at sunset on Sunday evening.

Today is the last full day of summer. On Tuesday, at precisely 8:04 p.m., fall will begin. It starts with the autumnal equinox on Sept. 22. This is the time when the sun shines directly above the Earth’s equator, creating nearly equal 12-hour lengths of day and night across the planet.

The weather for the rest of the week shows sunny days with highs in the mid- to upper-60s with overnight lows around 50 degrees.

There is a beach hazards statement in effect for Orleans and Niagara counties until Wednesday evening. The National Weather Service warns that there are strong currents and dangerous swimming conditions along the beaches in the two counties.

Photos by Ginny Kropf: The Rev. Mike Breunig, a retired elder in the United Methodist Church, reads some history of the Apple Grove Inn, while a picture of the famous Russet Room is shown on the screen. The shirt hanging on the podium is the original one worn by Bill Dunn when he was assistant chef at landmark restaurant.

MEDINA – The former Apple Grove Inn was celebrated Saturday night by 160 diners who attended a tribute to the iconic restaurant, sponsored by the Grove United Methodist Church.

The church, which occupies the site which was formerly the Apple Grove Inn, took its name from the highly acclaimed restaurant when it moved from West Center Street in 2013.

Earlier this summer, the idea was suggested to have an event to celebrate the Apple Grove Inn and its history throughout Western New York.

On Saturday night, 160 people attended the evening, which featured a buffet cooked by chef Nate Sanders using authentic recipes from the Apple Grove’s famous buffets.

Serving up a buffet with recipes from the former Apple Grove Inn are Linda Blanc, Ruth Cleveland, Gretchen Dunn and Kathy Vicknair. One-hundred and sixty people attended the event, which featured recipes from the Apple Grove Inn, prepared by chef Nate Sanders.

A highlight of the meal was the bread pudding and apple crisp for which the Apple Grove was famous.

“It was a wonderful time and I saw friends that I don’t often get to see,” said Pastor Barb Brewer. “Although I was stuck in the kitchen most of the night, I really enjoyed seeing our Fellowship Hall and Sanctuary full of people. I have fond memories of the Apple Grove Restaurant. Our family enjoyed the dinners and Sunday brunches, and I had my high school prom at the Apple Grove Restaurant. Being from Lockport, it was always an adventure coming to the Apple Grove.”

The pastor encourages everyone to “stay tuned,” as the church has future endeavors coming up, such as their turkey dinner.

“We will review our dinner night and if we can encourage younger families to join us, there will be no stopping us from doing more dinners like this,” Pastor Brewer said. “We just want people to know we live and love like Jesus.”

The boat shown on the screen is the Miss Apple Grove, a tourist boat operated on the canal by the Apple Grove Inn.

Saturday evening was special for many people, including Chris Busch of Medina.

“It was really nice to walk down memory lane vis-à-vis the Apple Grove,” Busch said. “All of those great memories came rushing back at the dinner, with a lot of familiar ‘Grove’ faces and friends. I had my first legal drink there in 1978. The place was legendary on so many levels – the incredible meals, specialties, the famous two-for-one Happy Hours, Flo Simpson’s unrivaled baked goods, free wings on Thursday nights – it had it all. I mean fish fry for $3.95, that came with English chips, slaw, soup, salad and rolls. That simply does not happen today.”

Of course, Busch continued, there was the Thursday Night Social Club.

“Back in the early 1980s, a few of us decided to go out on a Thursday night and start the weekend early,” he said. “That ended up happening every Thursday night for years. My wife and I actually met at the Apple Grove and had our wedding there – weddings at the Grove were spectacular.”

Diners waiting for dinner to be served Saturday night at the Grove United Methodist Church are, from left, Bea Young, Pam Turner, Delbert Young and Cora Goyette, all of Medina.

Busch added his kudos to Nate Sanders for coming up with the idea of recreating an Apple Grove meal and for the Grove UMC for hosting it.

“It was a great way to revisit some treasured memories of one of Medina’s most beloved establishments and a whole lot of cherished memories,” Busch said.

After enjoying the delicious buffet, guests moved into the Sanctuary where Mary Zangerle and the Rev. Mike Breunig gave a presentation on the history of the Apple Grove, along with a slide show. Guests marveled at the pictures of the Russet Room, the wishing well, the fireplace with copper hood, the staff and even the boat Miss Apple Grove on which the restaurant gave rides to guests on the Erie Canal.

Rob Robinson plays piano for the diners at a special evening at the Grove United Methodist Church paying tribute to the former Apple Grove Inn. Robinson’s mother was a long-time piano player at the historic restaurant.

The Rev. Breunig shared comments about what the Apple Grove meant to people, especially Ruth Carr Miller of Barre, whose mother was married to Apple Grove owner Walt Hilger.  He also said his first visit to the restaurant was in 1976 for Thanksgiving dinner. He was amazed how a hot dog stand could turn into a landmark restaurant. He also commented on the Russet Room, which could seat 700 people.

Of course there was the Greening Room, Baldwin Room and Johnny Appleseed Lounge.

A highlight of the evening Saturday was the piano played by Rob Robinson, whose mother Virginia Bishop played piano at the Apple Grove Inn for 30 years.

Jeff Gay, left, talks with Jeff Wagner, former owner of the Apple Grove Inn, at the conclusion of a tribute by the Grove United Methodist Church to the former Apple Grove Inn Saturday night.

One special guest with ties to the restaurant was Jeff Wagner, who lives in Medina and worked at the Apple Grove before purchasing it in 1985. He worked there in 1972, was promoted to running the bar and dining room in 1974 and learned how to cook before buying the restaurant.

“There are so many memories – all the people we worked with – many of whom keep in touch,” Wagner said. “The people really made the Apple Grove what it was. This evening is a great tribute to Walt, myself and Medina.”

As part of the tribute, the church encouraged people to send in their memories of the Apple Grove, which were typed into a booklet and sold at the dinner for a donation. Nearly 100 responses were received.

A table is set with authentic Apple Grove Inn china and the trademark chairs with an apple cutout. At the podium, Mary Zangerle shares some history of the former restaurant.

Photo by Tom Rivers: Diesel was nearing $7 a gallon at the TA Travel Center in Pembroke on Friday.

The average price for regular unleaded gas took another 16-cent jump in the past week to $4.47 a gallon, according to AAA. This is the second straight week regular unleaded week increased by 16 cents nationally. A year ago, the price was $3.18. The New York State average is $4.48, up 9 cents from last Monday.

Diesel is up an average of 28 cents nationally to $6.51, an all-time high. Diesel in the past month has now gone up from $5.67 in New York State to $6.49. A year ago the price was an average $3.91 a gallon.

“Pain at the pump continues as pump prices increase,” AAA said in a statement this morning. “Gas prices have returned to spring levels with the national average inching closer to this year’s record high of $4.56 set on May 21. The all-time high for the national average is $5.01 set on June 14, 2022.”

In Orleans County, the average price for regular unleaded went up less than a penny from $4.383 to $4.389.

Here are the average prices for regular unleaded in counties in Western New York:

• Orleans, $4.389
• Genesee, $4.426
• Monroe, $4.423
• Niagara, $4.388
• Erie, $4.432
• Wyoming, $4.414
• Livingston, $4.458
• Chautauqua, $4.440
• Cattaraugus, $4.373
• Allegany, $4.402

The highest price in the state is $4.845 in Hamilton County while the lowest price is an average of $4.350 in Cayuga County.

Community Action of Orleans & Genesee faces $912,000 federal reduction for Head Start, 50 fewer Head Start slots for young children

File photo by Tom Rivers: Renee Hungerford, chief executive officer of the Community Action of Orleans & Genesee, stands outside the Head Start center on East State Street in Albion.

Press Release, U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer

After a new federal proposal was released earlier this summer that threatens Head Start programs in New York and across the country, U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer today rallied against the proposed rule with the support of providers from across Upstate New York.

Schumer explained the proposed rule would dismantle Head Start by gutting quality standards that ensure that America’s most vulnerable children and families have access to educational programs, medical and dental exams, developmental screenings, and nutrition services.

In New York, it is estimated that the proposed rule could lead to 2,854 jobs lost, result in a $12.68 million decline in funding for health services for children and families, and force families to pay $862 more per child for additional childcare.

“Roughly 40,000 children in New York benefit from access to Head Start and the early childhood education and comprehensive services it provides families,” Schumer said. “The proposed changes by the administration threaten the quality of these programs and put essential services at risk.

“From eliminating math and literacy requirements, to rolling back health services and developmental screenings, and reducing the allowable cap on administrative costs, the gutting of Head Start will hurt hundreds of thousands of children across the country,” Schumer said. “From DOGE to healthcare, the tendency to cut and gut, rather than to boost and build is sadly reflective of this administration’s misguided approach to governing in general. We must protect Head Start and invest in New York families.”

Earlier this summer, the Trump administration released a new proposal that would gut federal performance standards for Head Start. The proposed rule would eliminate federal requirements that ensure low-income families have access to school readiness resources for children from birth to age five, including, but not limited to:

• Eliminating staff-to-child ratios. The proposed rule eliminates federal group size and staff-to-child ratios, meaning that Head Start staff may be expected to care for up to 32% more children.
• Significantly reducing program hours. The proposed rule reduces the number of hours that Head Start programs are required to operate, meaning that families will be forced to find care elsewhere and spend $862 more annually per child on care.
• Removing requirements to provide comprehensive health care services and developmental screenings. The proposed rule removes requirements around connecting children and families with health, mental health, dental, visions, screenings, and other related support services, forcing families to find these services elsewhere and pay higher prices.
• Lowering the allowable cap on administrative costs from 15% to 5%. The proposed rule lowers the allowable cap that programs can spend on administrative costs from 15% to 5%, meaning that programs will be forced to bring their administrative costs (staff salary and benefits, auditing, accounting, human resources, etc.) down to 5% of their grant amount. Many programs will be forced to institute layoffs and pay cuts, and some programs may no longer find it finally viable to operate, especially small and rural programs.

Head Start experts say the proposed changes would weaken the quality of Head Starts services and undermine early childhood education. Currently, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which runs Head Start programs, is holding a 60-day comment period for its proposed rule.

An initial analysis based on HHS data estimate that nationally, the proposed rule means that nearly 40,000 Head Start jobs could be cut, Head Start staff could experience a 6-9% pay cut even while being expected to care for up to 32% more children, and healthcare services for children and families could be reduced by up to $167 million annually.

The senator announced he will continue to lead Senate Democrats in the fight to stand up against the proposed changes to Head Start, programs that serve approximately 40,000 children in New York and over 685,000 children nationally every year. The senator said maintaining high-quality standards for Head Start programs is essential for the success of kids in New York and across the country. Schumer’s leadership has garnered the support of providers serving children across Upstate New York.

“Head Start is far more than a preschool program,” said Renee M. Hungerford, executive director/CEO, Community Action of Orleans & Genesee. “It provides children and families with comprehensive services that support school readiness, health, nutrition, developmental screenings, and family stability.

“At Community Action of Orleans & Genesee, we see every day how these services change lives and strengthen communities. While there is significant discussion about increasing Head Start enrollment, policymakers must recognize the realities facing families in states like New York.

“A parent working full-time at New York’s minimum wage can earn above the federal poverty guidelines used to determine Head Start eligibility, even while struggling to afford housing, childcare, transportation, and basic necessities. If the goal is to serve more children, eligibility standards must better reflect the true cost of living families face today.

“At the same time, proposals that weaken quality standards and drastically reduce allowable administrative costs would undermine the very elements that make Head Start effective. Our agency is already grappling with a federally imposed $912,000 Head Start funding reduction that has forced painful cuts, including the loss of valued employees.  It also reduced our available Head Start slots from 244 to 194.

“Further weakening the program through the proposed rule would jeopardize services for vulnerable children and families across rural communities like ours. We are grateful to Senator Schumer for his continued leadership in protecting Head Start and advocating for policies that strengthen, rather than diminish, opportunities for children and families.”

Photos by Tom Rivers

SHELBY – The fourth annual Fuller 155 Suicide Awareness Basket Raffle saw its biggest turnout yet on Sunday with people supporting suicide awareness and prevention in memory of the late Erin Fuller.

A former deputy with the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office, Fuller was 45 when he died by suicide on Sept. 12, 2015.

His family, friends and many others in the community put on the benefit which included 239 baskets, gift cards and other items up for raffle at the Shelby Fire Company Rec Hall.

The event also included a 5K walk/run for the first time.

Some of the volunteers who worked on the fundraiser include, front row, from left: Anita Hughes, Pam Canham, Joette Oberther, Savanna Watts and Nancy Bracey.

Back row: Jason Watts, Ike Watts, Debbie Fuller, Sydney Watts, Tammy Fearby, Sheriff Chris Bourke and Chief Deputy Jim DeFilipps.

Ike Watts is Erin Fuller’s cousin. She has taken the lead in the organizing the local event the past four years. Before that she led a team in an “Out of the Darkness” walk in Buffalo about suicide prevention and awareness.

She wanted a local event to bring the community together about the issue, which afflicts many families.

Watts said she appreciates the strong turnout from the community, and the numerous donations from people and businesses in Orleans, Genesee, Niagara, Erie and Monroe counties.

“I know there is so much support in the community,” Watts said.

Proceeds from the previous two benefits, $15,600 total, were given to the Orleans County Suicide Prevention Coalition. That group is planning an “Out of the Darkness” walk at 11 a.m. on Oct. 10 at Bullard Park in Albion. Registration starts at 10 a.m.

The group also is part of a Men’s Day Out Pre-Tailgate Party from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Oct. 25 at the Orleans County YMCA in Medina.

Ike Watts said the proceeds from Sunday’s event may instead go to a non-profit organization thought he Shelby Volunteer Fire Company with the proceeds focusing on first responders. The money could fund Critical Incident Stress Management training, covering debriefings for first responders after difficult response calls. The money could cover mental health counseling as well.

She is grateful the benefit will provide funded to help people receive care if needed. The event also raised awareness of the mental health toll on first responders, who see many critical incidents.

Representatives from OpOverwatch in Lockport also attended the Fuller 155 event. Jake Reeves, an Orleans County Sheriff’s deputy, chats with Wade Boyer from the organization that seeks to help law enforcement officers and other first responders with post-traumatic stress.

OpOverwatch is a ministry that serves law enforcement officers, correction officers, dispatchers, military personnel, firefighters and EMS personnel.

“We help first responders with the trauma you see on a daily basis,” Boyer said. “First responders are exposed to hundreds to thousands of incidents.”

Provided photo: The event for the first time included a 5K walk/run. The 5K was organized by Debbie Fuller.

This photo from April 2024 from Whitney McDowell of Lyndonville shows two swans and their newly-hatched babies behind the Yates Community Library in Lyndonville. The father swan recently died of natural causes.

LYNDONVILLE – There will be a walk on Sunday at 2 p.m. for people to show their respect and appreciation for the male swan at Lyndonville that died in June.

That swan was an iconic part of Lyndonville for many years. It passed away not long after four baby swans hatched. The mother swan has helped those new swans grow. Their wings are starting to turn white and they seem ready to try flying, said Chris Schilling, who has organized the walk on Sunday.

Schilling has been a Lyndonville resident for the summers since 2008. She feels blessed that the swans are part of the community, and she is sad that the father swan has died.

“I’ve loved the swans ever since I’ve lived here,” she said this morning. “I really believe these swans are beautiful.”

On Sunday, the walk will start at 2 p.m. from the parking lot of the United Methodist Church. People will then walk to the dam and behind the library where the swans can often be seen.

Photos by Ginny Kropf: Children of all ages sit at a play table filled with building blocks during the second annual Building Blocks Event sponsored by Medina Tourism Committee.

MEDINA – The second annual Building Blocks event sponsored by Medina Tourism Committee attracted a crowd of adults and children, some who came to look, others who came to enter their creations and those who came to build or play while they were there.

The event, with a United States’ 250^th anniversary theme, was moved to Lee-Whedon Memorial Library when the Sacred Heart Club was booked by another group.

D.J. Tucker, 10, describes his pirate ship he made out of building blocks. It took him three days to build, he said.

“The library turned out to be perfect place for our event,” said Kathy Blackburn, who co-chaired the event with Barb Gorham. “It was a great success.”

Blackburn shared they even had an entry from Philadelphia. The family was visiting the area for another family get-together, when they learned of the Building Blocks event and brought their child to the library.

Kathy Blackburn, co-chair with Barb Gorham of the Building Blocks event Saturday at Lee-Whedon Memorial Library, helps some young builders with their creation.

One feature attraction was a giant display by the Rochester Lego Users Club. Building blocks are not just for kids, according to ROCLUG members Scott Lawrece, Jeremy Tolski and Jerry Santelli. The men have been members for 7 to 15 years and say their club regularly has 50 to 75 members in attendance at their monthly meetings at Gates Town Hall.

“Building Blocks of all sizes were a hit with all the kids,” Blackburn said. “Especially the giant blocks the children were using to build, with one child inside.”

Winners were chosen in several categories. In K-2, Ryder Russell was first with Jack Mufford and Rowan White tying for second.

In grades 3-7, Byron Hill was first, Hollis Green and Ian Mufford tied for second, and D.J. Tucker and Maggie McManus tied for third.

Three members of the Rochester Lego Users Group stand by their display at the Building Blocks event Saturday. From left are Scott Lawrence, Jeremy Tolski and Jerry Santelli. The club meets monthly at Gates Town Hall, where 50 to 75 members attend regularly.

In the adult category, Aaron Gould was first and Samantha Gould was second.

An added feature this year was a hot dog stand by Boy Scout Troop 28. The Troop is led by Scoutmaster Todd Draper and Assistant Scoutmaster Aaron Thomas.

“This is a little fundraiser for us,” Thomas said.

Michael Hooker volunteered to wear a hot dog costume at the food stand run by Scout Troop 28 during the Building Blocks event Saturday at Lee-Whedon Memorial Library. Seated at right is assistant Scoutmaster Aaron Thomas.

This elaborate display by the Rochester Lego Users Club features an operating passenger train.

Provided photos: Julie Woodworth, center, is shown with Gail Tylec, SUNY Niagara trustee, and Lloyd Holmes, president of SUNY Niagara, after she was presented with the New York Community College Trustees’ Distinguished Alumni Award for Professional Contribution Sept. 18 at the Saratoga Casino Hotel Ballroom.

A Lyndonville resident, Orleans County coroner and employee of Medina Memorial Hospital has been recognized with the prestigious New York Community College Trustees’ Distinguished Alumni Award for Professional Contribution.

Honoree Dr. Julie Woodworth, a former nursing professor at SUNY Niagara, explained the award is presented to someone who has reached the pinnacle of one’s professional career or has achieved great success in one’s field of study.

Her write-up in the awards program stated “Her career is a testament to the life-changing impact of community college education. A SUNY Niagara Alumna, Woodworth began her academic journey by earning an associate’s degree in nursing before advancing through bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate studies to become a nationally recognized nurse educator and leader.

“Throughout more than two decades of teaching, mentorship and service, Woodworth has helped countless students achieve their educational and professional goals, while strengthening the nursing workforce and improving healthcare in the community. Her dedication to student success, lifelong learning and community engagement reflects the very best of the community college mission – creating opportunities, transforming lives and serving the public good.”

Woodworth’s nomination by Niagara Board trustee Gail Tylec was supported by the entire board. Letters of recommendation were received from the ACEN senior director, who spoke of Woodworth’s expertise provided when she was an accreditor for other nursing programs.

Another was from Professor Bridget Beilein, who talks about a recent trip to France, where Woodworth did CPR on a stranger.

Yet another was from Professor Laura Scaletta, who spoke of Woodworth’s diverse talents and contributions to her community.

“I am honored to get this prestigious award,” Woodworth said. “I have spent my career as an expert nurse, teaching the next generation of nurses, and now as the county coroner.”

She also continues to work part-time at Medina Memorial Hospital and teach at Daemen University.

In 2017, Woodworth became the first and only SUNY Niagara faculty to earn a SUNY Distinguished Teaching Award.

Brett Boring says he is responding well to chemo for multiple myeloma

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – Brett Boring greets his sister, the Rev. Susan Boring, during a benefit today in his honor at the Albion Elks Lodge.

Brett, 54, was diagnosed on May 10 with multiple myeloma, an incurable blood cancer. He said he has been responding well to chemo and is hopeful to have a stem cell transplant.

Christine Robinson looks over some of the baskets up for raffle. There were about 100 items in the basket auction, as well as a 50/50 raffle.

Elks members Mike Jenks, right, and John Spinks, left, were among the volunteers serving up 300 pulled pork dinners at the Elks Lodge. Boring has been a long-time member of the Elks and a current trustee.

“Brett is the kind of person who will do anything and everything to help someone out,” Jenks said.

Brett Boring was happy to see many friends, co-workers and family members, including his former father-in-law, Bill Staub.

Boring works as an electrician at the Albion Correctional Facility. He said he appreciated so many people coming out and contributing to the benefit today. He said he has helped with many of the benefit events over the years that have been hosted by the Elks.

“I’ve done hundreds of these for people,” Boring said. “You don’t realize what it does for people until you are the one that receives the benefit.”

Proceeds from the benefit will help Boring with his medical expenses and long-term treatments.

Chris Wilson sang for about three hours during the benefit today.

Ted Narburgh checks out some of the baskets and gift cards at the auction.