By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 30 June 2026 at 10:17 am
Photo by Tom Rivers: Jim Hancock, chairman of the Medina Tourism Committee, speaks during last week’s Village Board meeting.
MEDINA – The Medina Tourism Committee is looking forward to special events to celebrate the country’s 250thanniversary.
The committee is organizing a patriotic birthday concert on Sept. 6 at State Street Park with a jazz band led by retired Medina band director Jim Steele, Jim Hancock, the Tourism Committee chairman, told the Village Board last week.
Retired broadcaster Mike Randall will be reading the Declaration of Independence. There will be 250 birthday cupcakes with red, white and blue frosting.
The Sons of the American Legion is contributing funds towards the event, Hancock said. The VFW will be playing Taps as well.
The Tourism Committee asked the Village Board for permission to have a time capsule buried at Rotary Park with the container to be opened in 2076. The board approved the request for the time capsule, which will be in a circular area in front of the Santa House.
Hancock and committee member Barb Gorham said they expect the time capsule will be buried by the end of October. They said they are discussing what to have in the capsule. They would like a little bit of Medina Sandstone and news coverage of notable events during 2026.
“We’re open to any suggestions about what people want to see put into it,” Hancock said.
The committee wants to reach out to the school district and ask kids what they think Medina will be like in 50 years.
Hancock said the Tourism Committee looks forward to welcoming about 600 cyclists when they visit and stay overnight in Medina on Sunday, July 12. It’s part of the annual Cycling the Erie Canal trip from Buffalo to Albany.
The committee also is working on its second annual Building Brick event at Sacred Heart Club on Sept. 19. Last year there were about 350 people – kids, parents and grandparents – making creations from LEGOs.
The Tourism Committee last week welcomed the Seneca Chief boat to the Canal Basin. This was the third year the replica of the famed canal boat visited Medina.
Hancock said the Tourism Committee also is working on plans for the Parade of Lights and the Christmas celebration on Nov. 28.
The Tourism Committee for the 17th year also is staffing a visitor center during the summer. This year a team of about 15 volunteers is managed by Barb Gorham.
“We see a great number of people coming into the village,” Hancock said. “We try to provide information to them.”
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 30 June 2026 at 8:34 am
Extreme heat watch issued for Wednesday to Friday with heat index up to 105
Kimberly Stawicki sent in this photo of the Strawberry Moon from last night in Medina. This was the first full moon of the summer.
A heat advisory is in effect for Orleans County and most of New York State today.
The heat index values are expected to be in the upper 90s. From Wednesday afternoon through Friday evening, there is an extreme heat watch when heat index values could be as high as 105.
For today, the heat advisory is in effect from noon to 8 p.m. The high in Orleans County is forecast to reach 92. Then the highs are forecast for 94 on Wednesday, 95 on Thursday and 92 on Friday.
The National Weather Service advises people to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.
“Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside,” the Weather Service said. “When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.”
Robyn Ottaviano took this photo of the Strawberry Moon last night.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 29 June 2026 at 11:19 pm
The average price for regular unleaded gas dropped in the past week – down 6 cents nationally to $3.86 today. One year ago, the price was $3.19, according to AAA.
The New York State average is at $4.12, down 11 cents from a week ago. A year ago, the NYS average was $3.21.
In Orleans County, the average price is down 8.3 cents from a week ago – from $4.396 to $4.313.
“Drivers continue to see relief at the pump as summer travel ramps up, with prices trending lower in recent weeks,” AAA said in a news release. “While motorists are benefiting from these declines, prices remain higher than they were this time last year, and New York continues to sit above the national average and rank among the more expensive states for gasoline, currently ranking 8th for the highest prices in the country.”
This morning, crude oil prices are trading in the high $60s to low $70s per barrel range, down from $75-$79 last week, AAA said.
“Crude oil prices have remained relatively steady, with global supply dynamics and ongoing geopolitical developments influencing the market,” AAA said. “While volatility remains a factor, recent stability in oil prices has helped support the gradual easing in gas prices.”
Here are the average prices in counties around Western New York:
Orleans, $4.313
Genesee, $4.201
Monroe, $4.250
Niagara, $4.274
Erie, $4.263
Wyoming, $4.338
Livingston, $4.332
Chautauqua, $4.227
Cattaraugus, $4.197
Allegany, $4.267
The highest price is in Tompkins County at an average of $4.380 while Nassau has the lowest price at $3.919.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 29 June 2026 at 3:10 pm
Photos by Tom Rivers
ALBION – Kids keep a close eye on an armadillo that visited Hoag Library today with other creatures from the Wildlife Rockstars in Farmington.
There were about 100 people at the presentation at the library, which kicked off its summer reading program. Click here to see a schedule of events as part of the program which has a theme of “Unearth a Story.”
Steve, an ambassador with Wildlife Rockstars shows a ball python to kids and adults at the presentation.
Twin sisters Mileena and Adalyn were able to pet a chinchilla.
Rosie, an ambassador from Wildlife Rockstars, lets people get a close look at a hissing cockroach.
This tortoise seemed eager to meet the crowd at the library.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 29 June 2026 at 2:52 pm
Photos by Tom Rivers
ALBION – Becky Patterson, an artist from North Tonawanda, puts dinosaur-themed line art on the sidewalk in front of Hoag Library today.
Children will be encouraged to color the inside the lines with chalk throughout the summer as part of the summer reading program, which has a theme of “Unearth a Story.” Patterson used a water-based temper paint for the outline which should last throughout the summer.
Patterson also expected to work on chalk mural today, showing a three-dimensional T-Rex, and another dinosaur-themed chalk mural on Thursday.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 29 June 2026 at 2:38 pm
Photos by Ginny Kropf
MEDINA – Patriotic banners are strung across Main Street this morning in observance of the Fourth of July and the country’s 250th celebration and the Fourth of July. This view is looking north from near the railroad tracks.
(Left) Village of Medina DPW employees string patriotic banners across Main Street in Medina. In the buckets are Brad Freeman and John Fike. (Right) Medina DPW employee Brad Freeman attaches the wire for a patriotic banner to an anchor on the Main Street buildings, which are the ones used for the holiday banners at Christmas.
There are eight banners, four on either side of Main Street. Jason Watts, the DPW superintendent, said it took about a half an hour to install each one, using the existing hardware on the buildings. The banners will remain up through Labor Day, he said.
The banners were requested by Medina Area Partnership and funded with a $3,000 grant from the New York State 250th Commemorative Commission. Orleans County was approved for $15,000 from the state to help commemorate the country’s 250th anniversary.
Other funding approved by the local 250th committee and the Orleans County Legislature includes: Albion Strawberry Festival, $1,500; Barre Betterment Committee, $750; Lyndonville Lions Club, $3,585; Medina Area Partnership, $3,000; Town of Albion, $1,000; Town of Kendall, $740; Town of Murray, $275; Town of Yates, $500; Village of Holley, $1,700. The remaining $1,950 is to be spent at the discretion of the NY250 Committee in Orleans County.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 29 June 2026 at 11:19 am
Photos by Tom Rivers
ALBION – The Village of Albion summer park program kicked off today for six weeks with a full slate of programs as well as free food for children every day. The season ends on Aug. 7.
The top photo shows kids and park supervisor Wes Olles playing Gaga Ball.
There will be park counselors at Bullard from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. from Monday through Friday. They will lead children in games, arts and crafts and other activities. The summer program is free.
The first couple days of the park program include registration. Children should have a list of their immunization records.
These kids enjoy some relief from the heat at the splash pad.
The playground was put to use at the start of the park day.
Some highlights in the season include:
July 3rd celebration later in the day, including fireworks
Tennis clinic from July 6 to July 10 at Albion High School tennis courts
July 8 soccer clinic at Bullard Park
Wrestling camp from July 13-17 at Albion High School gym
Volleyball camp from July 13-17 at Albion High School gym
County Park Fun Day on July 15 with bounce houses, food vendors
Tennis camp from July 20-24 at Albion High School tennis courts
Baseball camp from July 27-31 at Albion High School
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 29 June 2026 at 9:24 am
Orleans County Amateur Radio Club competed in Amateur Radio Field Day exercise over the weekend
Photos by Tom Rivers
ALBION – Two ham radio operators – Jim Salyer, left, and Chuck Baker – make connections with other ham radio operators around the country on Sunday.
The Orleans County Amateur Radio Club participated in the annual Amateur Radio Field Day exercise on Saturday and Sunday at the Orleans County Emergency Management Office, 14064 West County House Rd.
The OCARC has been active in this Field Day exercise since 1961. This event ran from 2 p.m. on Saturday until 2 p.m. on Sunday. The Orleans ham radio operators were up to 822 connections at 1:30 p.m. with a half hour to go.
Since 1933, ham radio operators across North America have established temporary ham radio stations in public locations during Field Day to showcase the science and skill of Amateur Radio.
There are more than 725,000 licensed hams in the United States, as young as 9 and as old as 100. And with clubs such as the Orleans County Amateur Radio Club, it’s easy for anybody to get involved right here in the Orleans County area.
The Orleans club welcomed the public to the event over the weekend and served up food. Ray Hertel of Shelby is shown at the grill with Eugene Baker of East Shelby in back.
Hertel said he got into ham radio about 30 years ago after being injured at work with the Niagara Mohawk. He was laid up for six months. Two of his friends introduced him to ham radio and he has been active with the hobby since then.
He enjoys the camaraderie with the other radio operators. The Orleans club meets 7:30 p.m. on the second Monday each month at the EMO site, 14064 West County House Rd.
The club will also be at the Orleans County 4-H Fair on Aug. 1 doing demonstrations and will be at the Oak Orchard Lighthouse on Aug. 22-23.
Eugene Baker became active in ham radio four years ago when he woke up one day and his cell phone wouldn’t work. He didn’t like the feeling of having his communication system shut down.
He talked with local ham radio enthusiast Terry Cook and Baker embraced the hobby.
“It’s a great group of guys to hang out with,” he said.
Ron Craig of Middleport sends out signals from the digital ham radio center on Sunday.
The Orleans club had nearly 1,000 connections with its signal – 2FWNY.
Ham radio can function completely independent of the internet or cell phone infrastructure.
Bruce Sidari is shown inside the EMO at the ham radio station. Sidari of Albion has been in ham radio since he was 12 – about 65 years ago.
He said he has made friends all over the country through ham radio, meeting many of the people at conventions.
The local club has won many competitions over the years.
“I like the technology,” Sidari said. “It keeps my brain moving.”
Program will provide direct payments of a minimum of $1,000 and a maximum of $25,000
Press Release, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Office
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the release of the $30 million Agricultural Resiliency Against Tariffs Program for New York agricultural producers.
The program, first announced in the Governor’s 2026 State of the State address, will help offset rising costs and market loss that New York farmers faced in 2025 because of federal tariff policy. Applications for dairy, livestock, specialty crop and aquaculture producers are now available here.
“The tariffs imposed by the Trump administration are reckless and damaging to so many of our industries, including our agricultural producers, who rely so heavily on the forces of international markets.” Governor Hochul said. “I promised to stand up and fight for our farmers and I’m proud that our Agricultural Resiliency Against Tariffs Program will provide the much-needed relief to New York’s farmers who feed our communities.”
The deadline to apply for the Tariff Relief Program is Tuesday, August 11, 2026. Only complete applications will be considered for payment. The application and detailed instructions on how to apply, including a webinar, are available on the Department’s webpage at https://agriculture.ny.gov/agricultural-resiliency-against-tariffs-program. Farmers are encouraged to begin the application process early to ensure all parts are completed and submitted by the deadline.
New York Farm Bureau President, David Fisher said, “Farmers of many different commodities have been faced with significant tariffs, which have sometimes been staggeringly difficult to manage. As we all know, farmers already operate on razor-thin margins, so we welcome any kind of relief program and appreciate the Governor’s efforts to help alleviate some of the pain points farmers have been experiencing.”
With an estimated 20 percent of a farmer’s income on average dependent on export markets of their product, the federal tariffs instituted in 2025 and resulting market instability are creating economic hardship for New York’s agricultural producers. In addition, farmers are facing the escalating costs imposed by tariffs on essential imports like grain, feed and other inputs. Over 80 percent of agrochemical imports and 70 percent of farm machinery imports originate from countries that were subjected to U.S. tariffs, making it difficult for farmers to secure alternative sources.
While the broader financial impact of tariffs on New York agricultural producers is still being calculated, many commodities have already reported financial burdens. For example, New York’s wine industry, which is the third largest in the nation, supports tens of thousands of jobs and New York’s grape growers, has seen significant impacts. Canada is the largest market for U.S. wine exports, including New York, and last year New York exports to this bordering country were down 77 percent, a major market loss at a time when the U.S. wine exports decreased 33 percent overall.
The Governor’s tariff relief program will provide direct payments of a minimum of $1,000 and a maximum of $25,000 to eligible producers. Distribution of funds will be determined through two tracks:
Eligible applicants must fill out a general application, provide agricultural sales or milk production data and meet specific criteria, including:
Applicants must have at least two-thirds of federal gross income in excess of $30,000 derived from agricultural activities, as defined by New York State Tax Law.
Applicants must produce eligible crops within New York State.
Eligibility and production data must be certified by a qualified financial professional.
All applicants must provide a complete substitute W-9 form, necessary for payment.
Dairy farm applicants must sign a records release form, allowing confirmation of milk production data.
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “Farmers get hit by tariffs on both the export and import side, losing market opportunities while also facing rising costs of things like grain, equipment and fertilizer. I thank the Governor for continuing to advocate for and stand by our agricultural industry. This program will ensure that the producers impacted by tariffs will receive some level of relief to help offset these new expenses and safeguard their operation.”
NYS Horticultural Society Executive Director Jim Bittner said, “New York State is the number 2 producer of apples in the country. About 30 percent of the apples grown in the US need to be exported in order to have returns back to growers at a profitable level. When the US imposes tariffs on other countries, one of the first things those countries target is apples from the US. New York apple growers are the ones hurt by those tariffs on our apples. We are also hurt by the tariffs the US applies to inputs we use on our farms to produce those great local apples. The specialty equipment and the parts to repair them as well as the fertilizers we use are mostly imported and have increased in price to us because of the tariffs. Between lower prices for the apples we produce and paying more for many of our major inputs, we need help to mitigate these influences. The last two years of tariffs have been especially harmful. Agriculture is the bedrock of our economy. We want to be able to continue to grow high quality apples for New York residents.”
NYS Vegetable Growers Association President Brian Reeves said, “There is an old saying that farmers are the only ones who buy at retail and sell at wholesale. While this is not always the case, the tariff activity has raised the cost of many inputs, which are partly or in whole imported. Relief from the increased costs can only help farmers’ bottom line.”
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 28 June 2026 at 3:54 pm
72 in Class of 2026 celebrate commencement
Photos by Tom Rivers
HOLLEY – Confetti falls on the Class of 2026 during the end of the commencement ceremony on Saturday inside the Holley Junior-Senior Auditorium.
Holley graduated 72 students on Saturday.
Middle/High School Principal Matt Feldman commended the graduates on earning their high school diplomas.
He said they should continue to heed his advice of putting their cell phones away as much as possible so they don’t meet true human experiences. School districts throughout the state implemented a cell phone ban during school hours this past year, although Holley limited cell phone use before that.
“I want for you a deeper human connection,” Feldman told the grads. “I want you to feel admiration not envy.”
This grad walks into the auditorium to join her classmates on stage. Her cap included the message: “Did Everyone See That Because I Will Not Be Doing It Again!”
Feldman, the high school principal, said the strongest memories don’t come through Instagram, Snapchat or other social media platforms.
He shared about students doing karaoke on the last day of school, and students who had a pool party in the school parking lot at 6:45 a.m. before school, an experience that included cows in a pen.
“Put your cellphone in the locker because you have so much to offer others,” he said.
Kohle Pachla walks across the stage after his salutatory address. Pachla said it was an honor to be salutatorian in the class. He is headed to Alfred University to major in ceramic & mechanical engineering.
“We finally get the chance to experience life beyond these walls,” he said. “Keep one question in mind: Is this what I want to do?”
Mia Thom is recognized with a scholarship during commencement. Thom is the class valedictorian. She is graduating a year early. She will attend Rochester Institute of Technology to major in diagnostic medical sonography.
She opted not to give the valedictory address because she jumped a grade. She “donated” the speech to Jax Richards-Dyson, who ranked third in the class.
Jax Richards-Dyson gave the greeting as the class president and then gave a speech in lieu of the valedictory address. Behind him are Principal Matt Feldman and District Superintendent Karri Schiavone. Richards-Dyson is headed to the University of Rochester to major in biology.
He shared some humorous commentary about going five years in school with cell phones being banned at different grade levels and then state-wide in school buildings. He shared about the “chaos of Covid” when students were forced to do online learning and often were forced out of school if they were possibly exposed to Covid if a classmate tested positive for the virus.
“Class of 2026 we haven’t had a fair or normal educational experience,” Richards-Dyson said.
But he shared advice from John F. Kennedy: “Change is the law of life.”
Richards-Dyson also echoed the message of putting your cell phone away and talking to people, even a stranger sitting next to you on an airplane.
He said listening and learning from others is a powerful antidote against hate.
Hunter Pachla and Layla Jones, the class co-treasurers announced the class gift. The Class of 2026 is donating $1,800 to Operation Caring Hearts, which provides essential supplies, tents, and meals to the homeless people and veterans in the Rochester area.
Skylar Gallagher is recognized for receiving a scholarship in memory of Richard Martin and Maynard Martin, given to a senior who makes the greatest contribution during four years at Holley Senior High School.
Brody Fiorito received the scholarship in memory of David Ruggles, given the senior who displays outstanding qualities of friendliness and compassion.
Leonidas Lucian Ladd receives a scholarship given by retired principal Susan Cory “to the senior who values education but more importantly, values people and treats everyone well.”
Spanish teacher Jane DelGudico was picked by the Class of 2026 to give the commencement address.
DelGudico has worked at Holley since 2017. She congratulated the grads but told them commencement is just the beginning.
“You have to keep pushing yourself to reach your goals,” she said.
She urged them to choose healthy habits of exercise, eating well, getting enough sleep and maintaining their relationships with their classmates.
“Call your mom, visit your grandparents and stay in touch with your friends from Holley,” DelGudico said.
She advised to spend less time on their phones and more time talking directly to other people.
“Maybe you’ll make a friend,” she said. “Maybe you’ll fall in love.”
She urged them to save money and push themselves to excel in their jobs.
“The world needs more hard workers,” she said. “You will stand out and it will be worth it. Push yourself to go out on a limb. That’s where the fruit is.”
Jayda Shampine is congratulated for earning her diploma. She goes through a line of Board of Education members including Cecelia Pacheco Stevens, back center, and Jennifer Reisman, right.
Anthony Feliciano poses for a photo with Stephanie Sanchez, director of Special Programs for the school district.
Alexis Van Ameron was given her diploma by her mother Tracy, who is a member of the Board of Education.
The students move their tassels to signify their graduation.
A grad cap carried a powerful message: “If you knew my story you’d be proud.”
The graduates met on the football field after commencement to toss their graduation caps. The scoreboard was displayed at “2026” for the Class of 2026.
Provided photo: Scott Robinson, directing of marketing, communications and outreach at Orleans Community Health, talks with Dr. Robert Hodge, a surgeon.
MEDINA – June is Men’s Health Month, a time to encourage men to take a proactive approach to their health and well-being.
While many health conditions can develop quietly over time, routine screenings, healthy choices, and regular conversations with a primary care provider can help identify concerns early and improve long-term health outcomes.
No matter ones age, preventative care is important. Understanding the recommended screenings and healthy habits for each decade can help men stay healthy and active for years to come.
Ages 18–29: Building a Strong Foundation
Young adulthood is the ideal time to establish healthy habits and create a routine for years to come. Even if you feel healthy, annual physical exams are important for monitoring overall wellness and identifying potential concerns early.
Recommended screenings during this decade include regular blood pressure checks, cholesterol screening as recommended by your provider, sexually transmitted infection (STI) screenings when appropriate, and mental health evaluations.
Healthy habits should focus on regular physical activity, including both cardiovascular exercise and strength training. Maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco and vaping products, limiting alcohol consumption, and practicing safe sex are also important. Developing healthy ways to manage stress and support mental health can have lasting benefits throughout adulthood.
Ages 30–39: Prioritizing Heart Health
As men enter their thirties, responsibilities might be expanding and increasing. The demands centered on a career, family, and finances can make it easy to put personal health on the back burner.
Annual physical exams should continue, along with yearly blood pressure checks and cholesterol screenings as recommended. Men who are overweight or have risk factors may also need diabetes screening.
This decade is an important time to focus on cardiovascular health through regular exercise and nutritious eating habits. Maintaining muscle mass, prioritizing quality sleep, and addressing signs of stress, anxiety, or burnout can help prevent health issues later in life. Continuing to avoid tobacco products and limiting alcohol consumption remain key factors in long-term wellness.
Ages 40–49: Prevention Becomes Increasingly Important
Many chronic health conditions begin to emerge during the forties, making preventive care more important than ever.
Men should continue annual physical exams and routine monitoring of blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Diabetes screening is often recommended every few years, depending on individual risk factors. Around age 45, colorectal cancer screening should begin for most adults. Men should also discuss prostate cancer screening and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing with their healthcare provider to determine what is appropriate for their individual situation.
Lifestyle habits should include regular cardiovascular exercise and strength training to help preserve muscle mass and maintain a healthy metabolism. Managing stress, maintaining work-life balance, and ensuring adequate sleep can also support overall health.
Ages 50–59: Staying Active and Engaged
By the fifties, preventive screenings become even more critical for detecting health concerns before symptoms appear.
Recommended screenings include annual physical exams, routine colorectal cancer screening, prostate cancer screening based on provider recommendations, and regular monitoring of blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Vision and hearing evaluations should also become part of routine preventive care.
Staying physically active is one of the best ways to support heart health, maintain strength, and protect joint function. Men should continue focusing on healthy eating habits, avoid tobacco use, limit alcohol intake, and remain socially engaged. Regular preventive visits help ensure that health concerns are addressed before they become more serious.
Ages 60–69: Protecting Independence
During the sixties, maintaining mobility and managing chronic conditions become priorities for many men.
Annual physicals should continue, along with recommended prostate and colorectal cancer screenings. Men who have risk factors may also benefit from bone density evaluations. Regular vision and hearing screenings can help maintain safety and quality of life.
Physical activity should include exercises that support strength, flexibility, and balance to reduce the risk of falls and injuries. Staying mentally active through hobbies, learning opportunities, and social engagement can also support brain health. Keeping vaccinations current remains an important part of preventive care.
Ages 70 and Beyond: Healthy Aging
Good health remains important at every age. For men over 70, healthcare providers often tailor screenings based on overall health status, medical history, and individual needs.
Annual wellness visits, vision and hearing checks, fall risk assessments, and medication reviews help support healthy aging. Maintaining mobility, independence, and safety are key goals.
Nutritious eating, regular physical activity, social connections, and mental stimulation can all contribute to a higher quality of life. Even small amounts of daily movement can provide meaningful health benefits.
Make Your Health a Priority
No matter your age, preventive care is one of the most effective tools for maintaining good health. Routine screenings can help identify problems early, when treatment is often most effective.
As part of its ongoing commitment to community wellness, Medina Memorial Hospital will host a Men’s Health Fair in November. The event will provide valuable health information, resources, screenings, and opportunities for men to learn more about taking control of their health.
Men’s Health Month serves as an important reminder that investing in your health today can lead to a healthier tomorrow. Whether you’re 25 or 75, now is the perfect time to schedule a checkup, talk with your healthcare provider, and take steps toward a healthier future.
Photos by Natalie Baron: Members of the Class of 2026 celebrate upon receiving their diplomas. From left include Jada Nickerson, Olivia Peterson and Gabriel Campbell.
By Natalie Baron, Correspondent
ALBION – The school and community celebrated the 115 graduates in Albion’s Class of 2026 on Friday evening. The weather was ideal for the ceremony outside on the football field.
The Caledonian Pipe Band continued their tradition of leading in the junior ushers, daisy chain and graduating seniors.
The speeches were opened by Class President Neveya Barnes. She wanted everyone to remember where they came from as they continue to learn and grow, shaping who they will become.
Senior Class President Neveya Barnes reminded us that our past, which we might perceive as unflattering and emotionally-challenging, shaped us into who we are today. “Deeper than any game, middle school haircut, or even the alphabet is our light.”
She said the Class of 2026 will always have a foundation in, and support from, Albion. “Hold on tight to the memories and friends that you’ve had or have because your support is strong, and continue to grow and encourage yourself to learn more.”
Using the alphabet as her example, she encouraged us to continue discovering more about the world around us, having learned the foundations in school. Barnes will be attending the University at Buffalo to major in psychology.
Salutatorian Nathaniel Miesner smiles. He had some jokes up his sleeve to make his messages stronger. He spoke about working toward aspirations, even when it is difficult.
Class of 2026 Salutatorian Nathaniel Miesner explained, “We have this misconception that failure is exclusively bad.” He discussed how failure allows us to see what went wrong so that we can adjust our methods with newfound insight.
Although the next few years seem inconceivable, the graduates will shape who they will become with each challenge. Perhaps you want to improve yourself in order to work toward a goal. “You could ignore it and focus on other things. The problem is, you might not like who comes out on the other side. The better option, in my opinion, is to take control of your development.”
He reminded the class that they are more capable of pulling themselves out of ruts than they may realize and that he and their peers believe in them in achieving any goal. “The battle will be grueling, and the results, reluctant to show. Do not let that deter you. In the end, that is what makes it worth it.” Miesner will attend Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute for mathematics.
Gideon Pask, Valedictorian of the Class of 2026, implored graduates to keep going in the face of loss. You can choose to learn from those who came before you.
Valedictorian Gideon Pask said that no matter how the years in high school went, they shaped every person in the class. Pask expressed that he was scared to speak to people as a freshman, but the support of others changed who he became.
Pask reminds us that we have all experienced loss, whether it be the loss of friends, opportunities, or a life. He shared that this year, he has lost his pastor, teacher, and grandfather, Erik Olsen, the leader of the East Shelby Community Bible Church.
Each loss will create change in one’s life, which will be painful, but there is always a time for each change. “One of the most important lessons a person can learn is that loss, no matter how great a change it may cause, is not the end,” Pask said. It is a chance at a conscious choice to grow, to use that loss’ example as a way to guide us.
Pask said that although there is a loss from graduating, everything is not over. Pask will be attending the Rochester Institute of Technology to major in electrical engineering.
Graduates proudly walk the stage. From left include Colin Coyle, Abigail Kincaid and Zane Kremer.
BOE President Linda Weller told the Class of 2026 to look around themselves and recognize the friends, teachers, and community who have and will continue to cheer them on, as this is their foundation. No matter where they go in the world, the people in the Albion community will be there for them.
“Connection. This is what matters,” Weller said. “In a world that seems to move faster every single day, where everything is a swipe or a scroll away, it can be easy to forget the power of real, lasting human connection, but you, the Class of 2026, know what it means to show up for one another.” She has seen it in the many activities they have partaken in.
Superintendent Mickey Edwards advised the class to focus on their character, as that is most important.
“You can’t always choose the path you walk, but you can always choose the way you walk it,” District Superintendent Mickey Edwards said. “You can choose resilience when things get difficult. You can choose integrity when no one is watching. You can choose kindness when it would be easier not to. You can choose courage when the path ahead feels uncertain. And you can choose to keep moving forward, even when the road feels unclear.” Your impacts on others, values, perseverance, and small choices will always matter more than the path you take.
Several graduates expressed enthusiasm. From left include Rosalie McCormick, Wesley Olles and Kailee Anstey.
The Class of 2026 tossed their caps into the air as one final hoorah at the conclusion of the ceremony.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 27 June 2026 at 8:42 am
Public responds after café’s commercial AC/furnace, hot water tank and ice machine all need replacement
Photos by Tom Rivers: Sarah Ferguson, a staff member at Risen Café and pastor of God’s Voice Ministries, adds caramel to a glass of iced coffee today. Ferguson has been with Risen Café since it opened on March 7, 2023 at 469 East State St.
ALBION – The Risen Café has been serving meals and taking prayer requests for more than three years at 469 East State St., the former Crooked Door Tavern.
The café has two paid employees and other volunteers. The site also is used as a church for God’s Voice Ministries. Risen Café is open Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The church has services at 11 a.m. on Sunday. (There is also a prayer meeting at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Bible study at 6 p.m. on Thursday and faith-based recovery meeting at 6 p.m. on Sunday.)
Risen Café has been narrowing the gap of covering its costs, and not needing much support from the church, said Sarah Ferguson, pastor of God’s Voice Ministries and also one of the tow employees at the café.
But the café was dealt several blows in the past 30 days when four major pieces of equipment all failed. The air conditioning system, furnace, hot water tank and ice machine all needed replacement at an estimated combined cost of $20,000.
Ferguson shared the news on Facebook four days ago that the Risen Café was in need and detailed the challenges.
By Friday, a donor bought a new ice machine, and another contributor gave $5,000 for a new hot water tank.
Ferguson said about $9,000 is still needed for the combined AC unit/furnace that must be commercial size.
“God is faithful,” she said. “He is using his people. It’s beautiful to witness.”
Risen Café welcomes more assistance for the AC/furnace. People are welcome to stop in and donate. There will be a basket raffle and chicken barbecue from noon until 7 p.m. on July 18 at the café.
John Angelucci holds a chicken salad wrap with French fries. He is the chef at the Risen Café and has been with the café since day 1.
Ferguson said Risen Café has been a successful ministry, welcoming people from all backgrounds and is especially welcoming to people who have been battling addiction.
The café plays contemporary Christian music and no alcohol is served. Many of the local pastors use the site to meet informally with people looking for some spiritual direction.
Ferguson said not everyone feels comfortable going inside a traditional church building. God’s Voice Ministries wants everyone to feel welcome even if they aren’t familiar with hymns, Bible passages and the usual structure of a church service.
Ferguson is a Lyndonville resident. She started attended God’s Voice Ministries church in Lokcport in 2019, and was part of the team establishing the site in Albion at the former Crooked Door Tavern.
“As a ministry this works, and as a business it’s by God’s grace,” Ferguson said about the Risen Café. “This is a place where conversations are more comfortable around grace and recovery.”
The café doesn’t accept tips for the staff. Instead, there is a “Pay it Forward” jar where people can give a tip to go towards meals for others, including unhoused people, and people struggling to make ends meet. Ferguson said about $25,000 has been donated to the Pay It Forward Fund in about three years.
Risen Café also collects donations each month for a different agency or ministry in the community. Customers have given over $20,000 that has been shared with the hands 4 Hope ministry, Care Net, Community Action, Hospice, the Orleans Koinonia Kitchen and other organizations.
One big challenge, she said, is letting the community know about the Risen Café. It is located on a side street by the Brown Street canal bridge that has been closed since July 2012. Ferguson said Risen Café is more than a church and more than a restaurant.
For more information on the café, click here to be directed to its Facebook page.
Instead of accepting tips, the staff at Risen Café direct that money to a “Pay It Forward” jar for meals for unhoused people or others in need.
