AAA reported today that the national average for regular unleaded gasoline was at $4.07, which is down from 9 cents a week ago. AAA says the average price has now declined three straight weeks. A year ago the average price was $3.14.

In New York State, the average price is at $4.36, which is down 9 cents from a week ago but up by $1.25 from a  year ago, AAA reported.

“Drivers are seeing some relief at the pump as the national average for regular gasoline continues its three week slide, dropping to $4.07,” AAA said in a news release. “The downward trend, driven in part by crude oil prices staying below $100 per barrel, now coincides with a breakthrough agreement between the U.S. and Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

“Crude prices briefly dipped to $80 per barrel when the deal was announced, but with the situation still evolving and the Strait not expected to reopen until at least Friday, uncertainty around global oil flows continues to make this summer’s price outlook less predictable than usual.”

Here are the average prices in counties in Western New York:

• Orleans, $4.503
• Genesee, $4.341
• Monroe, $4.418
• Niagara, $4.446
• Erie, $4.447
• Wyoming, $4.522
• Livingston, $4.449
• Chautauqua, $4.480
• Cattaraugus, $4.369
• Allegany, $4.580

Manhattan is highest at $4.630, according to AAA, while the lowest price of $4.139 is in Nassau County.

Photos by Ginny Kropf: Mary Moffet, cheese maker, and Ella Sosik, sales and marketing, were promoting Oakfield Artisanal Cheese on June 6 as new vendors at the Canal Village Farmers’ Market.

MEDINA – The corner of West Center Street and West Avenue is again a beehive of activity with the move of the Canal Village Farmers’ Market back to its summer home. The market is on a mission to grow its vendor base and dedicated customer base, said market manager Gail Miller.

“The vendors won’t stay with the market if they do not have good sales, and attracting customers is not easy if there is not enough variety,” she said. “The market this week had a great selection, with several new vendors, and we will be adding more new vendors this season.”

This will include another vegetable farm, flowers, crafts and more. Baker Farms, in addition to their own raised beef and pork, garlic, eggs and scapes, will be selling Heartland Organics mushrooms.

“We are looking for a soap vendors, wineries and other unique items,” Miller said. ”Watch the farmers’ market Facebook and Instagram pages to see all the wonderful products available each week.”

One new vendor is Oakfield Artisanal Cheese, a farm which started making cheese three and one-half years ago. They will return to the market one day a month.

Peggy Schreck helps a young child choose a book at Kids Activity Tent at the Canal Village Farmers’ Market on June 6.

Another new vendor with a new craft is Aimee Cummings of Lyndonville. She paints watercolor greeting cards. She has also gone to the Akron Farmers’ Market. She said Gail was happy to have her at this market.

“I love doing the cards,” she said. “I’m not an artist, but rather think of myself as a crafter.”

Other crafts will include crocheted and handsewn items.

At another table, volunteer Rosann Russo sold plants which had been donated to the Canal Village Farmers’ Market.

Starting soon, Kimbrel Farm will be a regular, selling lettuce, spinach, peas, carrots, beets, basil and dill, and Rosario Farm will be here with fruits and vegetables.

They join regulars, Bower Family Farm and Greenhouse (microgreens, maple syrup and jam); Hazel and Honey Bakes (scones, cookies, sourdough); LockRidge Apiary (honey, bees wax); a variety of crafts; and Flower Fields Forever.

Melinda Cervantes arranges flowers in Human Farms and Greenhouse’s booth at the Canal Village Farmers’ Market. They also have Stone Hollow Farms bread.

The market will be participating in Medina Area Partnership’s upcoming Faery Festival this Saturday, and in July, the third annual Zucchini 500 will return.

Chef Caitlin from Shelridge Country made her first appearance last week, making a dish from local seasonal vegetables and fruit. She will return once a month throughout the summer. Miller said they are looking for additional chefs to do demonstrations.

On Aug. 15, the market will sponsor a Dog Days of Summer photo competition.

As Miller pointed out, running and participating in a farmers’ market does not come without its challenges.

“The most difficult situations for everyone to hand are when it is very windy,” Miller said about a recent Saturday. “All of us started out with tents up and a good amount of weight holding each one down. Strong winds came up and three of the market tents’ frames were bent or just totally collapsed on themselves.”

When a strong gust comes through, tents will either collapse or fly into the air. And often vendors lose some of their products, Miller said. Finally, all tents were taken down before the market closed.

The Royalton-Hartland Community Library took the opportunity to promote their summer activities at a booth at the Canal Village Farmers’ Market. At left is librarian Angelina Dimascio with Liz Winters, chair of Friends of the Library.

A state grant announced last year will result in enhanced facilities and the end of weather-related problems for the market.

“The reinvented building will allow the market to operate in the same space year round,” Miller said. “Our customers will no longer need to hunt for us during the winter, and they will be able to enjoy green space to sit and enjoy music and conversation. Artists would be more willing to attend, as their art would be protected from the elements. The farmers will have an upgraded area to sell from – warm in winter and shelter from the wind and rain in the summer. It also opens opportunities for farmers to perhaps offer their products for sale at additional times during the week.”

Unfortunately, there is no timeline when construction of that new facility will begin, as more fundraising has to take place.

The Canal Village Farners’ Market is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays.

Rep from Veterans’ Affairs will be at market on Saturday

A representative from the NYS Division of Veterans’ Affairs will be at the Canal Village Farmers’ Market this Saturday with farmers’ market coupons available for veterans and eligible family members.

They are part of the FreshConnect Check Program used to buy produce and food goods at local farmers’ markets and farm stands.

Residents can get half of new sidewalks covered by grant

Photo by Ginny Kropf: A worker smooths out the cement on a new section of sidewalk on West Center Street. An anonymous donor has offered to pay half the cost for eligible homeowners to replace their sidewalks.

MEDINA – Thanks to an anonymous benefactor in Medina, residents of West Center Street will be able to have much needed repairs made to their sidewalks this year.

“This program was privately created to help homeowners to improve their sidewalks,” said Robert Sanderson, who is administering the program on behalf of Orleans Renaissance Group and the Medina Sidewalk Review Committee.

The Sidewalk Grant Program was created primarily to increase the safety of sidewalks, but it will also increase the beauty and value of homes.

Eligible homeowners on West Center Street are the first focus of this program, and work has already begun.

A total of $200,000 has been made available for the 2026 year. This grant award will be for a maximum of 50% of the project cost.

The village of Medina will take away the old, removed sidewalk at no charge to the homeowner.

If applications from West Center Street residents do not exceed funding available, the offer will be extended to residents of West Avenue.

All applications and funding are on a first-come, first-served basis, with approval of the Medina Sidewalk Review Committee. The committee reserves the right to reject any application for any reason.

Applications are available at the village clerk’s office on Park Avenue.

Completed applications should be returned to Robert Sanderson Jr., 10780D Telegraph Rd., Medina, 14103. Residents are reminded this program will end Dec. 31.

Photo and information courtesy of Orleans County government

ALBION – July 4, 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the foundational document of the American Revolution, which took place between 1774 and 1783 and led to the creation of the United States of America.

What is now the State of New York played a crucial and enduring role not only during the Revolutionary Era but also throughout the subsequent 250 years of the nation’s history.

Sunday was Flag Day and to celebrate that day in conjunction with our nation’s 250th birthday, we have added a special commemorative flag to fly under the official United States flag at our county administration building in Albion.

Throughout the year, Orleans County will celebrate America 250 with history lectures, themed events, reenactments, parades, and more. Learn more at https://www.orleanscountytourism.com/america-250.

File photo from Steve Hawley’s Office: This group stopped at the Iwo Jima Monument on a previous Patriot Trip to Washington, D.C.

Press Release, Assemblyman Steve Hawley

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) is announcing this year’s Patriot Trip to Washington, D.C. The trip will run from September 17 to 20 and is open to local veterans and their families.

Participants will get a tour of the memorials dedicated to our nation’s heroes and landmarks that honor those who served. This year’s trip will feature stops at several notable locations in the D.C. area, including the WWII, Korean and Vietnam War memorials and Arlington National Cemetery.

“This trip is an excellent opportunity to honor not only our local veterans but also those who served before them,” said Hawley. “I am incredibly excited to host this event for another year. We owe our veterans a deep level of gratitude for all they have sacrificed for the freedoms we enjoy in this country, so being able to take them to our nation’s capital to see these historic landmarks is truly an honor.”

Due to the many generous donations from the community, local businesses and organizations, we are expecting the cost to be $450 to $500 per person with everything included. To register, contact Hawley’s office at 585-589-5780 or email hawleys@nyassembly.gov for more details.

For those who wish to donate to support this event, please make your donation out to Patriot Trip and send it to PO Box 171, Albion, NY 14411.

Press Release, Community Free Library

HOLLEY – The Community Free Library will host its first-ever Community Art Auction on Friday, June 26, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the library, located at 86 Public Square in Holley.

The event will showcase artwork donated by local artists from across the region. Community members will have the opportunity to view and bid on a diverse collection of paintings, photography, mixed media, fiber arts, and other original works while enjoying a reception and live auction experience.

All bidding will begin at just $20, making original artwork accessible to a wide range of attendees while raising funds to support library services, programs, and community initiatives.

The auction features works from more than 20 artists, including Ginny Schofield, Nora Lindsay, Jim Fiegel, Brianna Pellegrino, Chloe Dunn, Amy Ahl, Alanna Reed, Autumn Bradley, Emma Goodman, and many others who have generously contributed their talents to support the library.

“The Art Auction is a celebration of both creativity and community,” said Jenna Chevier, Programming Coordinator at the Community Free Library. “We’re excited to showcase the incredible artistic talent that exists in our area while raising funds that will directly benefit library programs and services for all ages.”

Guests are encouraged to preview the artwork in advance through the library’s online gallery and then attend the live event to place bids and meet fellow art enthusiasts.

Admission is free and open to the public.

Photos by Ginny Kropf: Curt Follman of Waterport welcomes the 15 participants in the Run for the Fallen who spent the night at his home on Saturday. Runners left Syracuse on Friday morning and arrived in Buffalo on Sunday. Along the way, they stop, display a flag and say a prayer for a fallen soldier.

Jeanne Crane and her daughter Kelly Follman take time for a picture during supper at Follman’s home, where they hosted participants in the Run for Fallen on Saturday night.

WATERPORT – A local family, Curt and Kelly Follman of Waterport, first heard about the Run for the Fallen when Kelly met Lori Jablonski in Annapolis, where the Follmans’ daughter Annabelle attends. Jablonski was organizer of the run for several years.

Last year, the Follmans offered to host a contingent of runners at their home overnight, and repeated the invitation again this year. Saturday night, 15 participants, some runners and others a support crew, arrived for supper and spent the night. A neighbor on vacation also offered use of their home for the runners.

The Follmans have a lot of reasons to support those who served in the military. Curt is a veteran; son Thomas is a captain in the Marines; daughter Elisabeth is a staff sergeant, employed in cyber security; son Roy John is a first-class petty officer in the Coast Guard; daughter Annabelle attends Annapolis; son Aaron is a police officer in Washington, D.C.; and son Sam is a firefighter and paramedic in Illinois. Only their oldest daughter Kayleen chose a different career – a singer, and she is a soprano living in Texas.

Curt said when Kelly, who is a teacher in Lyndonville, retires in July, they will be doing some traveling to visit their children.

The Run for the Fallen starts in Syracuse and ends in Buffalo on Sunday at Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park. Runners cover 50 miles a day, accompanied by support vehicles and take turns running and riding.

Stops are designated along the way to salute a flag dedicated to a New York hero and his or her family. This run there were 142 heroes honored.

On Saturday evening, Jablonski presented a flag to Curt and Kelly, in return for their hospitality.

The run is a way of keeping spirits of fallen service members alive, aiding in the healing process of their comrades, and thanking the New York families who have been affected by the war for their sacrifices.

Linda Jackson of Starkville, who was accompanied by her daughter Amy Geweye, said for 10 years she made 10 dozen peanut butter cookies with chocolate frosting for the participants. She has driven a support vehicle for 11 years.

This was the fifth year for Nancy Weber of Syracuse. Her father was a Navy veteran and served in Vietnam.

“I do it for him,” she said.

Information on the New York Run for the Fallen and how to donate can be found on their website at newyork.usarunforthefallen.org or www.honorandremember.org.

Curt and Kelly Follman of Wilson Road Extension welcomed runners in the Run for Life Saturday night for the second time. At their home here are Kelly’s mother, Jeanne Crane, Shari Rotoli of Holley, Curt Follman and David Rotoli. Curt and David are both veterans.

Linda Jackson and Amy Geweye, both of Starkville, are silhouetted against Lake Ontario at the home of Curt and Kelly Follman, where they spent the night as two of the participants in the Run for the Fallen.

Photos by Tom Rivers: This photo of Dave Green was shared during a slide show at his funeral at the East Shelby Fire Hall, where he was an active member the past 65 years. Green died at age 83 on May 22. Green never left the East Shelby community, where many people considered him the “mayor.”

EAST SHELBY – The East Shelby fire hall was packed with about 300 people on Sunday to say good bye to Dave Green, a much-loved retired sheriff and stayed very active in his retirement, organizing classic car shows and volunteering with the East Shelby Volunteer Fire Company.

Green, 83, was praised for his professionalism as sheriff and as the county’s fire coordinator/emergency management director. Green had extraordinary people skills that allowed him to work with the top law enforcement officials in the region and also to connect with inmates in the county jail.

“Dave’s great genius was in how he dealt with people,” said James Punch, retired Orleans County Court judge who also was the county district attorney, a role where he worked closely with Green when he was sheriff. “He could make anyone feel like he was their best friend no matter what walk of life.”

James Punch, who is retired as Orleans County Court judge and district attorney, delivers a eulogy at Sheriff Dave Green’s funeral on Sunday. Green earned the respect of the law enforcement community in Western New York. Punch said there were five murders his first 18 months as DA, and Green and the Sheriff’s Department did excellent police work leading to convictions in all the cases.

Green pulled off the rare feat of being elected as a Democrat to a countywide position in Orleans County, were Republicans have a 2-to-1 advantage over Democrats, and Green did it five times. He was first elected in November 1978 and served as sheriff until the end of 1998.

Green had a way of uniting people and brining out their higher calling, whether in the fire service, law enforcement or other community service, Punch said.

When Green retired as sheriff, he worked in the courthouse as a court officer. Punch was the judge. There was another court officer who became good friends with Green: Don White. He was the Republican candidate who lost an election to Green. Several years later they shared laughs and friendship.

“Adversarial politics didn’t make sense to him,” Punch said the retired sheriff.

Green visited inmates in the county jail and treated them as people, the judge said.

“Dave was a natural leader because he cared about everyone and he had the courage to let them know,” Punch said. “I’ve never met anyone who loved people more than Dave or anyone who was loved by more people than Dave.”

Green became sheriff after serving as the county’s fire coordinator and emergency management director. He led the local response during the Blizzard of ’77.

As sheriff, he pushed to create the Orleans County Major Felony Crime Task Force, which brought together the law enforcement agencies in the county to work on the most serious crimes.

Punch said Green was often at crime scenes and would interview suspects, often securing their confessions through kindness and understanding. He was respected around the state and served as president of the New York State Sheriff’s Association.

The Rev. Kim Smith, former pastor of the Millville United Methodist Church, said he was honored that Green requested Smith lead the funeral service.

Smith used to call Green when he was sheriff to request an escort for a funeral procession from the church to a local cemetery.

Smith praised Green not only for his community service, but for his 64-year commitment to his wife, Jessie. The two dated throughout high school. They have three children, six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Green attended a one-room schoolhouse before going to the bigger school in Medina. In high school “he became a social butterfly,” Smith said.

He remained very close to the Class of 1961, planning their reunions every five years. He was working on the upcoming 65^th reunion this summer.

Green became a sought after master of ceremonies for fire department banquets, mixing in humor and personal stories about the many firefighters and other volunteers.

“He knew how to interact with people, where others didn’t,” Smith said.

For 25 years Green organized the classic car shows in Medina in the canal basin, including the Super Cruise on Main Street. He had his own classic cars, and he let his grandchildren take them to their senior proms.

Green loved the East Shelby Volunteer Fire Company. It was his second home, Smith said. Green was prolific at selling raffle tickets and raising money for the fire company, while also empowering its leadership, including Debbie Taylor as the first woman to be fire chief in the county.

Green took great joy driving an East Shelby fire truck in local parades, especially Medina’s Parade of Lights.

Todd Ralph, Dave Green’s cousin, said Green was a great role model of service to his community and family. Green should go into “The Civic Hall of Fame” for his exceptional service over many decades, ralph said.

“He was a mentor, role model and sounding board who helped me grow personally and professionally,” Ralph said. “No one embodied civic virtue like Dave Green.”

Ralph urged the crowd to “carry Dave’s light” and his example forward.

“He was a humanitarian and a splendid one,” Ralph said. “He was a Western New Yorker and a proud one.”

Two of Dave Green’s grandchildren spoke at the service: Ryan McPherson and Sawyer Green. Ryan is the son of Green’s daughter Lisa and Sawyer is the daughter of Green’s son, Jeff.

The grandchildren shared how their grandfather was a mainstay at their sporting events, concerts and other activities.

Dave and Jessie also gladly welcomed their grandkids and now great-grandchildren to their home on East Shelby Road. The grandfather would joke to them that they were just stopping by for snacks.

Dave loved to cheer on the Buffalo Bills and Syracuse Orange basketball teams. He took the Bills losses hard.

“He was a giant in my life,” Ryan McPherson said.

His grandfather was a man of integrity, who put conviction behind everything he did.

Ryan would join his grandfather at Rudy’s Diner in Medina and it was almost nonstop with people stopping by to shake hands and chat with his grandfather. Ryan, when he was a kid, was surprised to see former jail inmates stop by and thank him for treating them fairly.

Ryan said his grandfather helped teach him to drive, and loved to brainstorm ways to raise funds for the East Shelby Volunteer Fire Company, including Ryan’s passion to bring pro wrestling to the community.

“He was a constant presence in my life,” Ryan said. “He always showed up.”

Sawyer Green also praised her grandfather for his presence in his grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s lives.

He loved to share jokes and dispense wisdom: “Don’t trouble trouble until trouble troubles you.”

She said her grandfather was a good man and her hero.

At the end of the service, a county dispatcher said the fireman’s last call for Green, who served was a past fire chief and captain of the fire company, as well as the steward for 41 years.

“His love for the East Shelby Fire Company was immeasurable,” the dispatcher said.

He mentored many of the department’s leaders, offering extraordinary friendship and service to the community, the dispatcher said.

The East Shelby Volunteer Fire Company was like a second home to Dave Green, who was a very active member for 65 years.

Other tributes to Green have been posted online at his obituary (click here).

Joe Cardone, retired Orleans County district attorney: “I had the tremendous fortune of working with Dave for several years prior to his retirement. His wisdom and advice guided us through many difficult cases.

As Sheriff he set a benchmark for his successors.  Dave could handle most any difficult situation and he did it with a sense of sincerity and a reassuring smile. He had the respect of the community that he served and he was a beloved role model and educator for the scores of law enforcement officers and firefighters that worked for him.

Despite often dealing with very tragic situations he maintained a great sense of humor. He humbly helped a lot of people throughout his career and made a difference in so many people’s lives. Our community is indebted to Dave for his years of public service and his fund raising for so many charities.  My condolences to the entire family.”

Ron Spike, retired sheriff of Yates County: “Dave was a truly honorable man and community servant and an admired Sheriff. He and Jessie always so welcoming and caring for my Sue when I at a conference meeting. I will always remember his love of ketchup. He had a great smile that said everything without uttering a word. Thank you Dave for your public safety fire, emergency management and law enforcement service. Your contribution to conserving peace will always be remembered. RIP my friend.”

Sue Zinkievich: “We built our house right next to the Greens. They were the best neighbors. I am sad to think he’s gone. He was one of a kind, special man who understood people, great joke teller. Even though I have been gone for 10 years, I still consider them – my East Shelby Family. I love all the Greens! Sending my sympathies to Jesse and the rest of the family rest in peace, Mr. David magnificent Green.”

Arnold Canham: “When the Medina High School Class of 1961 elected David Green as our class President, I doubt we realized back then just how wise our choice was. Here was a regular guy, always smiling, humble and quietly humorous who didn’t ‘make waves.’  In 1965 I moved away, leaving Medina behind and a few years later settled in the Chicago area.

Yet over the years it was always nice to learn about Dave back in Medina taking on responsibility for another activity or quietly guiding a long term function like the East Shelby Volunteer Fire Department. When I learned he was elected Orleans County Sherriff I was not surprised. Why not? Dave was a humble yet caring guy, seemingly a local fixture happily living a comfortable local life.

Years later it felt good to attend class reunions because Dave would be there, still with the smiling personality and quiet jokes. My Mom told me about Sheriff Dave calling when the 1977 major winter storm dumped 3 feet or more of snow on the area. He asked if my dad would use one of his bulldozer machines to help clear the roads. She quoted him as saying, ‘We can settle up later.’ An example of that steady and honorable guy, now in one of his leadership roles getting things done. Somehow, I expect Dave, who went on from high school to accomplish so much, is now ready to quietly help the ‘big guy’ get more things done.”

BOCES autobody repair class made drop box from decommissioned postal box

Photos by Tom Rivers: Steve Goodrich, commander of the Houseman-Tanner American Legion Post in Lyndonville, speaks during a dedication ceremony on Sunday for a new drop box for old American flags. It is located outside the Village Hall at 2 South Main St.

LYNDONVILLE – The Houseman-Tanner American Legion Post on Sunday dedicated a drop box for old American flags. The drop box was installed on Wednesday by the Village of Lyndonville Department of Public Works.

When Steve Goodrich, the legion post commander, opened it on Sunday, the drop box was packed full of flags. He is happy the public has responded to the drop box. The post today will have its annual flag retirement ceremony at 5 p.m. at Lynhaven Cemetery. The veterans were going to do it on Sunday, Flag Day, but moved it back a day due to the rainstorm yesterday.

Kathryn Jaques, a Girl Scout from Barker, adds a worn flag to the drop box after it was opened by Steve Goodrich, the post commander.

The drop box was made from a decommissioned US postal box. Students in the Orleans-Niagara BOCES Autobody Repair class worked on the drop box, sanding it down, making repairs and repainting it. The bottom had rotted out and needed new metal patch that was welded on.

Roy-Hart student Kaydence Boyle is an artist and airbrushed an American flag on the north side of the drop box, and the Statue of Liberty on the south side. The front of drop box has the Legion logo, which is a vinyl appliqué.

Other students who worked on the project include Jackson Lederhouse, Nicholas Harding, Wesley Rupert and Avion Johnson.

Jim Rozewski, left, is the teacher of the autobody class at BOCES. He attended the dedication on Sunday. Steve Goodrich is in the middle and at right is Rick Boyle of Lyndonville, the great uncle of Kaydence Boyle, the artist for the drop box. Goodrich presented certificates of appreciation to Rozewski and the students involved in the drop box.

Goodrich a year ago attended the dedication ceremony for the Hartland War Memorial on Route 104. The memorial features a decommissioned Vietnam War-era Bell UH-1 “Huey” helicopter. The aircraft is mounted on a pedestal at the grounds of the Hartland Volunteer Fire Company.

Goodrich learned at the dedication that the BOCES autobody class worked on the memorial, doing extensive bodywork. They put on a weather-resistant coat of paint, and welded structural components and mounts so the helicopter could be safely elevated.

Goodrich had already reached out to businesses about refurbishing the former mail box but he said the prices were high. He contacted Rozewski to see if the autobody class could help, and Rozewski agreed to take on the project.

The class covered the costs for the materials, with the exception of the Legion Post paying for the clear-coat.

American Legion members Bob Burtwell, left, and Steve Goodrich had their arms full of worn American flags after opening the drop box on Sunday. The flags and others collected in the past year by the post will be retired today with a 5 p.m. ceremony at Lynhaven Cemetery.

Rozewski said the class wanted the drop box to have a worn look to match the condition of the flags, rather than giving the drop box a shiny look.

Rozewski said the class would like to help other veterans’ organizations with projects, including drop boxes for flags.

Terry Cook, a local locksmith put in the new lock, and Rosenal Hardware donated materials to make the lock long enough for the drop box.

Goodrich said the post appreciates the Village Board and DPW for supporting having the box in a prominent location in the community.

Goodrich said post members will be checking the site frequently, especially after seeing so many flags put in there in the first few days.

Photo courtesy of Andy King, art teacher at Kendall Central School

KENDALL – As part of the Flag Day celebration at Kendall Elementary School each year, staff and students gather outside in a formation of red, white and blue.

This year they were organized on Friday to show the numbers 2-5-0, in honor of the 250^th anniversary of the United States.

Photos by Tom Rivers: Gideon Pask is congratulated by Todd Draper, scoutmaster of Troop 28 in Medina, for earning the rank of Eagle Scout. Gideon received the rank during a Court of Honor celebration today at the East Shelby Community Bible Church.

Gideon Pask became an Eagle Scout today.

EAST SHELBY – Gideon Pask, a very busy student at Albion Central School, has earned the highest rank in Boy Scouts. Today, he had a Court of Honor for his Eagle Scout.

Gideon, 18, is the valedictorian at Albion for the Class of 2026. He also is the drum major in the marching band and starred in the school musicals. He also is very active in the school’s chorus and band programs.

“He’s extremely goal-oriented,” said Todd Draper, scoutmaster of Troop 28 in Medina. “If he puts his mind to it, he’ll do it.”

Kids who are busy learn to prioritize and complete their projects, Draper said.

Gideon has made time for Scouting for more than a decade. He initially was part of Troop 175 in Barre until it disbanded.

He completed 28 merit badges, above the required 21 to be an Eagle Scout.

He also completed his community service project at the East Shelby Community Bible Church, adding benches, picnic tables and a sandstone walkway. Gideon has long attended the church, which was led by his grandfather, the late Erik Olsen. Gideon’s uncle Levi is now the pastor.

Gideon follows his brother Eli as an Eagle Scout. Eli earned the rank in 2018. He volunteers as an adult with Troop 28.

“I enjoy the camaraderie,” Gideon said about scouting. “You can meet some of your best friends.”

He said scouts also will have fun camping and will learn first aid, self sufficiency and problem solving, as well as many other skills.

Gideon Pask follows his brother Eli Pask, age 23, as an Eagle Scout. Eli is an adult volunteer with Troop 28. Eli got caught in the afternoon rainstorm before this photo was taken.

The troop is preparing to send 10 scouts and adults volunteers to the Philmont Scout Ranch for 9 days of rugged hiking in the mountains of New Mexico. The group will cover about 50 miles to start the summer.

Gideon will be attending the Rochester Institute of Technology this fall to major in electrical engineering. He would like to stay involved with scouts as an adult volunteer, in particular at high-adventure camps like Philmont.

Gideon Pask is shown as drum major for the Albion Marching Band during Saturday’s Albion Strawberry Festival.

Venezuelan man allegedly Tren de Aragua gang member wanted for felony assault in Yonkers

BUFFALO – An illegal alien from Venezuela and suspected member of the transnational terrorist organization Tren de Aragua was arrested in Albion on May 24, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement announced on Friday.

Jairo Antonio Molina Moron, 38, was charged by ICE Buffalo’s Fugitive Operations Team officers and U.S. Marshals Service deputies. Moron has charges pending for felony assault with intent to cause physical injury with a weapon or instrument, ICE stated in a press release.

Molina was paroled into the United States in 2023. The New York City Police Department arrested Molina for assault with intent to cause physical injury in December 2024, but those charges were subsequently dropped, ICE stated.

The Yonkers Police Department arrested Molina for felony assault with intent to cause physical injury with a weapon or instrument in February 2025. ICE lodged an immigration detainer against him, but local authorities refused to honor it and released Molina back into the community, ICE stated.

“The arrest of Molina Moron is the product of teamwork, coordination and a relentless commitment to protecting communities through collaboration,” said District of Western New York U.S. Marshal Charles Salina. “We are proud to work with our ICE partners and other federal agencies with immigration enforcement efforts.”

Molina is detained in ICE custody pending immigration proceedings. ICE’s Buffalo field office is responsible for conducting immigration enforcement in 48 of the 62 counties in New York.

“Transnational criminal gang members are not welcome in New York,” said Enforcement and Removal Operations New York acting Field Office Director Philip Rhoney. “We will never waver in our resolve to ensure these criminals gang members are not free to terrorize New Yorkers. I am grateful to our officers and our federal partners for their work to keep violent illegal aliens off the streets in our state and our country.”

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – A crowd of people watches the Albion ladder truck go down Main Street during Saturday’s parade for the Albion Strawberry Festival.

The parade brought out thousands of people along East Avenue and Main Street.

The two-day Albion Strawberry Festival has been a community celebration since 1986, with lots of food, live music, arts and crafts vendors, and the big parade.

The Damascus Shriners Mini-Cars were back in the parade after their debut last year and they were a clear crowd favorite.

Annette Finch served as the parade’s grand marshal. She worked more than 40 years at Community Action, assisting people in crisis situations. She also has been a very active volunteer in Albion’s recreation programs.

The Albion Betterment Committee had a float with Santa, and Natasha Wasuck, an ABC board member, was a reindeer. The Betterment Committee is working to develop a Santa museum on Main Street.

The Albion marching band performed patriotic music in tribute to the country’s 250^th anniversary. Several marching bands were in the parade.

The Albion Betterment Committee had a float with Santa, and Natasha Wasuck, an ABC board member, was a reindeer. The Betterment Committee is working to develop a Santa museum on Main Street.

Celes Paratore, an Orleans County 4-H’er, needed to scoop up a goat that ran out of energy near the end of the parade. Celes was promoting 4-H programs and the fair from July 27 to Aug. 1

Trellis Pore, pastor of the Shiloh Church in Albion, played music and brought a joyful presence to the parade. He was joined by several people from the  “judgement free” church.

Albion’s T-Ball and youth baseball teams tossed candy to eager youngsters along Main Street.

Kerry Panek and her grandchildren celebrated 40 years of Panek’s Pickin Patch on West Countyhouse Road.

Mr. Septic brought smiles to the crowd with this float. “You dump it, we pump it!” the business declared. Many businesses joined in the parade.

The Eye of Oden K9 Training had about 15 dogs and their handlers in the parade.

Justin Kania, front, and Josh Schoeberlein were out promoting Legendary Exterior Services.

Will Plummer served as king and Julia Graham was queen of the Strawberry Festival. Both are Albion High School students active in community service.

Orly the Ox and his brother Scout were in the parade. Orly debuted last year as the Orleans County bicentennial mascot. This year Orly is joined by his brother in promoting the country’s 250^th anniversary. Oxen were critical in the county’s early days, transporting pioneers and helping them to plant crops and work the land.

Dance Reflections by Miss Heather had a patriotic float for the country’s 250^th anniversary. Dance Reflections also is celebrating 20 years in Albion.

These quilters from the Town and Country Quilt Shop displayed patriotic quilts in honor of the 250^thanniversary of the country.

Jeremy Neal drives a 1955 Farmhall Cub tractor as part of the display for the CURE Foundation to raise funds and awareness for childhood cancer. Neal’s son Byron passed away from cancer at age 8 on April 14, 2023.

CSAT, the  Charter School for Applied Technologies from Buffalo, had a large presence with its marching band.

The Holley-Kendall marching band have been mainstays at the Strawberry Festival in recent years.

Jake Jackson next will compete in Junior International Championship Series in Jacksonville

Photo by Ginny Kropf: Jake Jackson practices pool in the family garage at their home on Mill Road, in anticipation of his next competition June 26 in Jacksonville, Fla.

MEDINA – Billiards isn’t a hobby for Jake Jackson, a 17-year-old student at Lyndonville High School. It’s his passion.

Jake has been playing pool since he was old enough to reach the pool table in his parent’s garage, where he used to watch his father practice.

Jake is a son of Roger and Terah Jackson, who aspires to be a professional pool player. He has already made a name for himself on the pool tournament circuit, sometimes beating an opponent older and more experienced. He was the 2024 New York State Junior 10-Ball champion; the 2025 and 2026 Joss Northeast Junior 9-Ball champion and finished third in 2025 in National Junior 8 Ball.

Jake is currently practicing for the Junior International Championship Series in Jacksonville, Fla. on June 26. Then from July 5-11, he will be in DuBuque, Iowa, for the Junior National World Qualifiers.

After that he will compete in the Junior World Championship in San Antonio, followed by the Joss Northeast 9-ball finals at Turning Stone Casino.

“Jake accomplished many great things in the past year,” his father said.

Out of more than 24 competitions in which he competed in the past year, in April, Jake was fifth out of 117 players in Toronto; at the Super Billiards Expo, at the Bison Billiards Expo he won against a 684 Fargo 10-0 and finished one spot from the final draw; he was first at the Bison Billiards Scotch Doubles with Bryan Namulik; in January he was second at the Joss, Massachusetts State Championships, an adult open tournament with a field of 77 players; he was second in January at the SVB 10-Ball Showdown at Billiard Breakdown; also in January he won the Bison Billiard BCA 8-Ball; and racked up four more firsts and a third at competitions throughout New York and Florida.

Jake said he used to practice three hours a day, while maintaining an 85 average in school, but now he is working on techniques and concentrating with his dad on how to handle stressful situations when competition is tough and the games are close.

While his dream is to graduate and make a living playing pool, he has a back-up plan, he said.

“I am going to BOCES taking building trades,” he said.

Jake has acquired several sponsors, including Adam Japal – Musashi Cues, Mid-West Carbon Technologies, In the Box Sportswear, Bison Billiards of Williamsville, Team Level up Junior Billiards, Billiard Breakdown of East Rochester, Pechauer Custom Cues and RackStar Billiards.

Attending these competitions creates the need for fundraising, and Jake is currently selling raffle tickets on a pool stick. Tickets can be purchased from his mother at Salon de Coiffeur on Maple Ridge Road.

Provided photo: Jake Jackson concentrates on a shot during a recent pool competition.