Holley grads urged to maintain human connections in tech age

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.

The students move their tassels to signify their graduation.

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.

Kendall trio earns Section V Class C2 honors

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 28 June 2026 at 9:25 am

Photos by Cheryl Wertman – Kendall’s Section V Class C2 honorees Nic Cole, left, and CJ D’Agostino.

A trio of Kendall players have been been honored by being named to the Section V Class C2 baseball team.

The Eagles honorees include senior third baseman/pitcher Vinnie D’Agostino, senior pitcher/first baseman Nic Cole, and junior first baseman/pitcher CJ D’Agostino.

Kendall’s Class C2 honoree and C2 Player of thhe Year Vinnie D’Agostino.

Kendall mentor Tige Noni was named Section V Class C2 Coach of the Year.

Vinnie D’Agostino, who was named Class C2 Player of the Year, hit .505 with 12 double, 4 triples, 3 home runs and 36 RBIs. On the mound he pitched 51.1 innings and had 80 strikeouts and a 0.955 earned run average.

Cole pitched 62.2 innings, registered 95 strikeouts and had a 0.894 ERA. At the plate, he had 4 doubles and drove in 22 runs.

CJ D’Agostino hit .452 and had 9 doubles, 5 triples, 2 home runs and 24 RBIs. He also pitched 34 innings and had 56 strikeouts and a 1.835 ERA.

Cole and Vinnie D’Agostino are also two-time Genesee Region League All-Stars. CJ D’Agostino was earned G-R All-Star honors this season.

Vinnie D’Agostino was also named G-R Player of the Year.

Kendall, which went 24-3 on the season, captured the Section V Class C2 championship for the second year in a row. The Eagles went on to win Class C regional and state semifinal games to earn a spot in the state finals.

Sandstone finishes Midget League regular season at 13-0; Barre scores two wins

Contributed Story Posted 28 June 2026 at 9:18 am

Completing a 13-0 regular season, Sandstone downed Carlton 13-1 in an Albion Midget League 12U game Saturday.

Barre also scored a pair of wins, 14-0 over Vets and 20-4 over Elks/Rotary, and Elks/Rotary nipped Vets 1-0 in other Midget action.

Sandstone 13, Carlton 1
Giavani LaMartina had a double, triple and home run, Dominic Westlund 4 hits, Nikko Russo and Bryce Saxton 3 hits each and Jace Torres 2 to lead the offense for Sandstone.

A home run by LaMartina, a triple by Russo and a double by Saxton highlighted a 5 run first inning which put Sandstone on top to stay.

On the mound, Russo registered 9 strikeouts.

Barre 14, Vets 0
The Barre Cubs 12U earned a 14–0 victory over Vets behind a strong combined pitching performance from Aiden Spamer and Jacob Knowlton who held Vets scoreless while striking out 11 batters.

Offensively, the Cubs collected 18 hits, led by Hudson Armer, Finley Baird and Easton Neri with three hits each and highlighted by Spamer’s inside-the-park home run.

Barre pulled away with a seven-run fifth inning to cap off a complete team win.

Barre 20, Elks/Rotary 4
BBarre posted a 20–4 victory over Elk/Rotary with a balanced effort at the plate and on the mound.

The Cubs racked up 15 hits and drew 14 walks, with Knowlton Baird, Neri and Vincent Monacelli all collecting multiple hits, while Hudson Armer Spamer and Neri drove in key runs during a six-run sixth inning.

Finley earned the win with nine strikeouts over four innings, and Hudson closed the game with two scoreless innings, striking out three to seal the victory.

Remi Ebbs hit a two-run homer for Elks/Rotary.

Elks/Rotary 1, Vets 0
A triple by Greyson Roberts drove in the lone run for Elks/Rotary.

Roberts also registered 11 strikeouts in 4 innings of work on the mound while Ebbs fanned 5 in 2 innings.

Kayden Donnelly chipped in with 3 hits.

Men’s Health by Decade: It’s never too early to take charge of your health

Posted 27 June 2026 at 9:36 pm

Press Release, Orleans Community Health

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.

Shelby shouldn’t take away right to elect highway superintendent, town clerk

Posted 27 June 2026 at 7:31 pm

Editor:

We are nearing the 250th anniversary of our country’s battle for independence. The right to elect those who govern and manage for us was a key part of the struggle. We did not want a king we didn’t put in power telling us what to do.

So, this brings up the question, why does the Town of Shelby Board want to remove our rights to elect the town clerk and highway superintendent?

Some quick facts from an internet search:

1. There are 933 townships in NY

2. Only 92, or about 10 percent appoint their clerks and highway superintendents

3. Most of the 92 are located in large urban or suburban areas that might require specialized skills for these jobs.

4. Obviously, the Town of Shelby is not urban or large in population and is in the 90 percent who elect the positions.

There will be a public hearing Tuesday, June 30th at 6 p.m. at the Town of Shelby Hall. Please plan to attend and ask the board why they want to take away your right to elect these two important offices.

Having the town clerk, and highway superintendent directly accountable to the voters every few years, is better for the people of Shelby than having the board dictate to us who will serve.

Respectfully submitted,

Jeff Smith

Town of Shelby resident, former Shelby Town Supervisor

Albion gives grads a big sendoff at commencement on football field

Posted 27 June 2026 at 2:18 pm

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.

Medina 15U splits in diamond twin bill

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 27 June 2026 at 2:02 pm

Medina’s 15U baseball team earned a split of a doubleheader today defeating the Lockport Lions 9-5 but losing to the Orchard Park Warriors 8-3.

Medina 9, Lockport 5
Evan Collins and Jacob Duffina both had a pair of hits and Brayden LaMartina triple to highlight the offense for Medina.

Leading by a narrow 2-1 margin, Medina pulled away by scoring twice in the fourth inning on an error and an RBI single by Collins, twice in the fifth on a two-run single by Zach Graham and then 3 times in the sixth on a ground out, an error and a wild pitch.

Orchard Park 8, Medina 3
Trailing 2-0, Orchard Park rallied into the lead for good on a three-run double by Billy Battleson in the fourth inning.

The Warriors tacked on 2 runs in the sixth on a passed ball and a wild pitch and then three more in the seventh on a bases loaded walk, a hit batter and a passed ball.

Medina took an early 2-0 lead by scoring twice in the third inning on an error, a walk, an RBI groundout off the bat of Kaiden Hockenbery, a single by Mason Mikulec and an error.

Medina’s only other run came in the seventh inning on an RBI single by Brayden Calabro.

Defensively for Medina Mikulec teamed up with Graham and Viktor Snyder to turn a double play in the sixth inning.

Medina is now 4-4.

Lou Gehrig 4, Medina 3
Playing their third game of the day, Medina 15U dropped a narrow 4-3 decision to Lou Gehrig late this afternoon.

Graham had a two-run double in the fourth inning for Medina which followed a single by Snyder and a double by Calabro.

Medina’s only other run came in the seventh on a ground out off the bat of Collins.

Lady Eagles have three G-R All-Stars

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 27 June 2026 at 9:35 am

Photos by Cheryl Wertman – Kendall G-R All-Stars Teagan Shaw, left, and Izzy D’Agostino.

Three Kendall players have earned Genesee Region League softball All-Star honors.

The trio includes senior catcher Brooke Rodas, sophomore shortstop Izzy D’Agostino and sophomore first baseman Teagan Shaw.

Kendall G-R All-Star Brooke Rodas

All three are repeat All-Star honorees.

In addition, senior outfielder Alea Barrett and junior outfielder Sophia Picardo have earned Honorable Mention.

Rodas hit .371 with 5 doubles, 4 triples, 4 home runs and 29 RBIs. On defense, she had 68 assists and threw out 25 baserunners.

D’Agostino hit .463 with 8 doubles, 6 triples, 24 RBIs and 21 stolen bases. Defensively, she had a .929 fielding percentage with 93 assists and 25 putouts.

Shaw hit .520 with 13 doubles, 4 triples, 3 home runs and 43 RBIs. On defense she had a .950 fielding percentage with 68 putouts and 15 assists.

Holley sophomore pitcher Madison Bonacci also received Honorable Mention.

Risen Café, ministry with good food in Albion, receives blessings from community

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.

100 grads celebrate commencement at Medina

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 26 June 2026 at 10:26 pm

Photos by Tom Rivers

MEDINA – Lilly Caleb and Avangelene Nash celebrate next to the “2026” that was on display outside Vets Park during graduation this evening.

The two were among 100 students who graduated from Medina.

The grads toss their caps after everyone was awarded their diploma.

Ava Blount, the class president in front, is happy after the commencement program. She is followed by Penelope Schalck, the class vice president, and Izabella Garcia, the class secretary. The Daisy Chain members are behind them in white dresses.

Tatianna Maxon is congratulated by school administrators and Board of Education members for receiving her diploma.

The Daisy Chain continued as part of commencement in a Medina tradition that goes back to 1922. Daisy Chain members – the top 16 girls and top two boys in grade point average among juniors – create two 27-foot-long chains of daisies.

The Daisy Chain members include Maya Anderson, Teagan Balaban, Madalyn Clute, Madelyn Elliott, Camden Fike, Aspyn Garley, Grace Goodrich, Samantha Heschke, River Jones, Adelynne Lacy, Sofia Lopez, Madeline Mark, Lillian Maynard, Natalia Olsen, Isabelle Perez, Carmen Stalker, Madison Watts and Arabella White.

Bellaflor Gomez-Hernandez gets ready to move her tassel to signify graduation.

Class valedictorian Bellaflor Gomez-Hernandez shared a message, “From Google Meets to Senior Seats.” She recalled how the class was disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic during middle school, sending them home during sixth grade in March 2020.

They needed to learn through online school during the pandemic.

“It didn’t break us,” she said about the Covid pandemic. “It built a foundation of adaptability that will serve us the rest of our lives.”

Lilah Class

Gomez-Hernandez, who is headed to Fordham University to major in international studies, thanked the Medina teachers and the graduates’ families for their support.

“Teachers, thank you for holding us to high standards and seeing the potential in us when we didn’t see it in ourselves,” she said.

Lilah Class, the salutatorian, shared a message, “Our Next Step.” She said failures are to be expected in life’s journey, and graduates should learn from their mistakes and struggles.

“We have made it this far,” she said. “Everyone is capable of great things.”

The grads are stepping out in “endless possibilities,” Class said. She urged them to be support themselves with encouragement and to be their own personal cheerleader.

“Be proud of how far you’ve come and where you are going,” she said.

The graduates sit in chairs on the football field and listen to a message from Dr. Julie Webber, Medina’s Assistant Superintendent for Instruction and AVID District Director.

She presented a message, “Your Destiny Awaits.” All of the speeches were prerecorded and displayed on the scoreboard.

Dr. Webber said she was the primary school principal when the graduates were in third grade. She reflected on a comment from famed orator William Jennings Bryan, who said destiny is not so much based on chance but on choices.

She said luck is passive, while destiny is active. The graduates so far have had their daily schedules tied to school. But starting tomorrow, the structure of their lives is up to them.

“The canvas becomes entirely yours,” Dr. Webber said.

Dr. Julie Webber gives the commencement address.

In the future, not everything will go to plan, no matter their best efforts, Dr. Webber told the grads.

“Detours are not a dead end,” she said, urging them to pivot and try a different door or direction. “Don’t give up.”

Dr. Webber urged them to be life-long learners, and she congratulated them on earning their high school diplomas.

“You did the hard work,” she said. “You are the proud product of a community that believed in you.”

Kymberlyn Brady feels joy after receiving her diploma.

Casey Reeves walks onto the field in the processional with her classmates.

Brennan Woodruff gets some help arranging his cords from friend Kylee Howard, who graduated in 2025. Woodruff served as the Student Association president and also was a student representative on the Board of Education. He is headed to Geneseo State College to major in philosophy/politics/economics. He wants to be a Constitutional lawyer.

He appreciates his education at Medina.

“It’s been a great foundation for what I want to do,” he said. “All the teachers are ushing you to be your best. They are all so supportive.”

Rhoswyn Oakes is congratulated by Mollie Mark, the assistant junior-senior high school principal.

Lyla Page hams it up while getting her photo taken after getting her diploma.

Luke Duffina goes through the receiving line and receives congratulations from Medina school officials.

The grads walk off the football field while the scoreboard displays a message, praising them for earning their diplomas.

Green just misses the cut at the Women’s PGA Championship tournament

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 26 June 2026 at 9:04 pm

Contributed Photo – Melanie Green

Four bogeys proved costly today as Medina’s Melanie Green has missed making the cut by just one shot at the Women’s PGA Championship which is being held at the Hazeltine Country Club in Chaska, Minnesota.

Green fired her second straight 1 over par round of 73 today. That left her with a two day total of 2 over par 146 but unfortunately the cut line was 1 over par.

Starting on the back nine, Green did get off to a strong start by birding the 10th hole to pull back to even for the tourney.

However, bogeys on 17, 1 and 2 erased that gain and put her to 3 over.

A birdie on 3 did improve her score to 2 over but a double bogey on 6 proved to be too much to overcome as it put her to 4 over with only three holes remaining.

She did rebound to notch birdies on 7 and 9 to get back to 2 over par but the rally fell one shot short of advancing to the weekend.

State comptroller: Clarendon Historical Society leader ‘exploited her role to enrich herself’

Posted 26 June 2026 at 5:24 pm

Press Release, State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli

CLARENDON – State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, Orleans County District Attorney Susan M. Howard and New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James today announced that the former president of the Clarendon Historical Society pleaded guilty to a felony for stealing over $62,000 from the non-profit.

Melissa M. Ierlan, 59, of Holley, will pay $62,000 in restitution. She also previously held positions as the town historian, the code inspector for the Town of Clarendon and the code enforcer for the towns of Byron and Murray.

The Clarendon Historical Society, which receives town funding, operates and manages two buildings as a museum, housing local artifacts and displays.

“Ierlan exploited her role in preserving the town’s rich history to instead enrich herself,” DiNapoli said. “As part of her plea agreement, she now has to return the money she stole. My thanks to D.A. Howard and the New York State Police for their partnership on this case.”

“We will not tolerate the conduct of those who use their position to steal money meant to enrich the community and the lives of others. It is disreputable for any entrusted individual to take advantage of others, especially in this manner. The State Police will continue to assist the Comptroller’s Office and Orleans County District Attorney’s Office in investigating and apprehending anyone willing to engage in dishonest acts,” James said.

A joint investigation by DiNapoli’s office and the New York State Police determined that Ierlan, who had been president and financial controller from 2020-2025, had unchecked control of the society’s accounts, which enabled her to embezzle more than $62,000 from July 2020 to September 2025.

Ierlan made numerous personal purchases and payments with the society’s debit card and checkbook, withdrew thousands of dollars in cash in person at the bank branch and at the ATM. She also made payments to her personal credit card with society funds.

Ierlan also fraudulently reimbursed herself for the purchase of a fiberglass ox statue for the “Oxen of Orleans” Public Art Project. Ierlan purchased the ox with her own personal funds and was reimbursed by the Town of Clarendon with federal American Rescue Plan Act funds. She then issued herself a second reimbursement with society funds. Ierlan also used society funds to purchase a shipping container for personal use, deposited society donations into her personal bank account, and transferred society funds to a deceased relative’s estate account of which she was the executor.

Ierlan pleaded guilty to grand larceny in the fourth degree before Judge Sanford Church in Orleans County Court. Her sentencing is scheduled for Aug. 26.

Since taking office in 2007, DiNapoli has committed to fighting public corruption and encourages the public to help fight fraud and abuse. New Yorkers can report allegations of fraud involving taxpayer money by calling the toll-free Fraud Hotline at 1-888-672-4555, by emailing a complaint to investigations@osc.ny.gov or by mailing a complaint to: Office of the State Comptroller, Division of Investigations, 8th Floor, 110 State St., Albany, NY 12236.

DEC announces free fishing this weekend with no license required

Posted 26 June 2026 at 3:48 pm

Photo by Tom Rivers: Dylan Cote of Pavilion casts a line out on at Johnson Creek in Lyndonville on Oct. 10. This is a spot near the top of waterfalls at the dam.

Press Release, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton today announced that a Free Fishing Weekend in New York State will take place June 27–28.

The weekend is part of six designated Free Fishing Days that take place each year in New York State. During these days, the fishing license requirement is waived for freshwater fishing on New York’s waters.

“With summer officially here, the timing of these free fishing days couldn’t be better,” said Commissioner Lefton. “New York is home to thousands of angling opportunities across our abundant freshwater lakes, ponds, streams, and rivers. Fishing is an affordable and rewarding pastime and I encourage everyone to get outside and visit New York’s waters during this Free Fishing Weekend.”

DEC’s Free Fishing Days program began in 1991 to give New Yorkers who might not fish a chance to try the rewarding sport of freshwater fishing at no cost, introduce people to a new hobby, and encourage people to support conservation by purchasing a New York State Fishing License.

Free Fishing Day participants are reminded that although the requirement for a freshwater fishing license is waived during free fishing days, all other fishing regulations remain in effect. Outside of free fishing days, anglers over the age of 16 must have a valid fishing license.

The remaining Free Fishing Days of 2026 will take place on September 26 (National Hunting and Fishing Day) and November 11 (Veterans Day).

Next week will be hot with highs in 90s

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 26 June 2026 at 3:18 pm

Photo by Tom Rivers: A deer stands in the original loop of the Erie canal in Holley on Wednesday. This is a rare section of the canal remaining from when the original was complete. Most of the original was widened several times. In Holley, the original loop was near the Public Square, but was later straightened out from 1854 to1861 to create a shorter, more navigable waterway. A new section of the canal was built over a very high and long embankment.

The temperature will be much hotter next week, with the forecast showing three days with highs in the 90s.

Today is forecast to reach 75, followed by a high of 78 on Saturday and then 81 on Sunday.

Then it will get hotter with a high of 87 on Monday, 93 on Tuesday, and 91 on both Wednesday and Thursday, according to the National Weather Service in Buffalo.

The high on Friday next week is forecast for 87.