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OC Christian School celebrates students with graduation, award night

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 13 June 2026 at 1:32 pm

Photos by Ginny Kropf: Kindergarten through fourth-grade students sang “Get up and Go” at Thursday’s graduation at Orleans County Christian School.

MEDINA – The Orleans County Christian School hosted its Award Night and Graduation Thursday night at the school at 5329 South Gravel Rd.

Two students graduated – Elijah Fields, who received her diploma from her mother and teacher Laura Fields, and Kavik Kindergrten, who was absent. Dozens more received special awards.

The evening began with a welcome by Dawn Zaidel, principal, and Ayesha Kreutz, administrator, who introduced Pastor Kevin Lawson as the emcee. Kreutz said the students pick who they want to be their speaker, and they chose Pastor Lawson.

“We are excited to celebrate the successes of students, staff, teachers, students helping other students, the board, family and administration,” Kreutz said. “We give thanks for them.”

Teachers Laura Fields, Mary Hollenbeck and Krista Lawson brought in their Pre-K – 4th grade classes, who sang “Get up and Go.” They were joined by the middle and high school students, who then sang “Lord, I Lift Your Name on High.”

A variety of awards were handed out by Laura Fields, Mary Hollenbeck, Kirsta Lawson and Carole Watson. Categories were Compassion, Fruit of Spirit, Joy, Forgiveness, Shield of Bravery, Boldness, Creative Thinker, Joyfulness and Generosity.

Sarah Walker, music teacher, was introduced and commended for her dedication coming from Rochester as a volunteer to provide music for the students.

This was followed by Middle High School students singing “Leave it at the River” and “Love, Joy, Peace.”

(Left) Isabella Devore gets a high honor roll award from teacher Mike Miner. (Right) Laura Fields, a teacher at Orleans County Christian School, presented the high school diploma to her adopted daughter Elijah Fields at the Award Night and Graduation Celebration on Thursday night.

Other awards were presented by Zaidel to Lucian Wright and a Courageous Award to Jayden Goodrich from Mike Miner. Phillip Shannon received the Heart of Gold Award, while Molly Frasier was recognized as an “Exceptional Young Lady.”

Levi Summers was recipient of the “Friendliness Award.”

Honor students with a 94 or above average were Ezra Sugar, Isabella Devore and Elijah Fields.

Administrator Ayesha Kreutz gives Ryilee Olson the Triple C award from the New York State Attorney General’s office.

Awards for Highest Math Score Overall were presented to Abbigail Smith (also most improved), Riyley Olson and Elijah Fields.

Riylee Olson also earned the Triple C Award from the New York State Attorney General, while Ezra Fields received the Presidential Education Award.

An achievement award for academic excellence from the New York State Comptroller went to Isabella Devore.

Elijah Fields received a Gold Seal Presidential Award for academic excellence.

Pastor Lawson had a message of encouragement for students.

“You can do anything in this world you want to do,” he said. “You can do great things. Turn your heart to God; go do and chase what is in your heart to do.”

Elijah Fields was valedictorian. She said she is thankful for her teacher Laura Fields adopting her and helping her through some struggles.

“Thank you for welcoming me,” she said. “I can’t describe my gratitude for my teacher.”

Her advice to fellow students was, “Even though you are troubled and have issues, you can stand still, or you can move forward.”

Kreutz gave recognition to Becky Miner, who serves as lunch monitor. Anytime she is needed or anything she can do, she is right there.

A floral arrangement was presented to Curt and Linda Strickland for more than 30 years of support to the Christian School.

“This school is moving forward today because of Curt and Linda,” Lawson said.

The evening was closed in prayer by Pastor Tim Lindsay.

Orleans County Christian School’s board of education members were introduced at Thursday’s graduation and awards night. From left are Shelcy Plueckhahn, Kim Jones, board chair Pastor Kevin Lawson, Mike Zaidel and Curt Strickland. Absent was Mike Watts.

(Left) From left, Principal Dawn Zaidel, sound man Charlie Hettrick and chaplain and administrator Ayesha Kreutz were introduced to the audience at Orleans County Christian School’s graduation Thursday night. (Right) Sarah Walker, music teacher, and Jayden Wodrick talk about the song their class made up.

Students of Orleans County Christian School entertain during graduation and awards celebration Thursday night. Front row, from left, are Karena McGill, Seth Anderson, Immanual Devore (back to audience) and Nolan Sugar. Second row, Kavick Ambrose (face hidden), Isabella Devore, Ezra Sugar and Zorina Wright. Back row, Lucian Wright, Levi Summers, Elijah Fields, Hayden Wodrich, Phillip Shannon, Abbigail Smith, Riylee Olsen and Molly Frasier.

Mustangs shutout in state Class B final

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 13 June 2026 at 12:20 pm

Photos by Cheryl Wertman – Medina’s Kolton Fletcher makes a catch in the outfield during the Mustangs state Class B title game loss to Chester this morning at Binghamton University.

Unable to get the bats going, Medina dropped a 3-0 decision to Chester in the championship game of the state Class B baseball tournament this morning at Binghamton University.

Chester pitcher Aidan Francisco, a lefthander,  limited the Mustangs to only 4 hits while striking out 11.

“Not one single reason,” said Medina  Coach Chris Goyette of the Mustangs hitting drought. “We haven’t seen a lot of lefties this year which is part of it but in the end you have to tip your cap to the kid he threw a great game.”

Chester scored the only run they needed as it turned out in the first inning on three walks and a passed ball.

The Hambiltonians added insurance runs in the second inning on a walk and two singles and in the fifth on two walks and a ground out.

Medina’s best scoring chance came in the bottom of the seventh. Singles by Preston Woodworth and Hadrian Batista followed by a groundout gave the Mustangs runners at second and third with two out.

However, the Mustangs could not capitalize as Fr”Yancisco notched a clutch game ending strikeout,

Medina’s only other hits were singles by Cam Fike in the fourth inning and Kolton Fletcher in the fifth.

Medina, which finishes the season at 22-3, advanced by blanking Utica Notre Dame 9-0 in the semifinals on Friday. Chester advanced by downing Center Moriches 5-2.

Cam Fike bangs out the first of Medina’s only  our hits.

Good vibes at Strawberry Festival, Albion tradition since 1986

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 13 June 2026 at 7:06 am

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – The food court on East Bank Street was packed on Friday evening for the Albion Strawberry Festival.

There are about 25 food vendors this year for the festival. The festival expanded the food court area to include the village municipal lot at Platt and Bank Street.

The Strawberry Festival continues today. The two-day event first started in 1986.

Heidi Pask, left, and Tiffany Crawford have fun making a strawberry shortcake sundae outside the First Presbyterian Church of Albion, which hosted a chicken barbecue. Steven Crawford is in back. The trio are members of the Albion Music Boosters.

The band, Stanton, performed on the lawn in front of the County Courthouse. Mike Zelazny, front, plays the guitar while Greg Stanton is the lead singer. Matt Stanton is on bass (back right), Frank Sarchia on drums, and Rick Braham plays guitar (back left).

The Stanton band plays cover tunes from Doobie Brothers, Tom Petty, Tragically Hip, the Byrds, Joe Cocker, Traveling Wilburys, Barry McGuire, J.J. Cale, America, Allman Brothers, Eric Clapton, the Who, Beatles, Steppenwolf, Roy Orbison, Kiss, Rolling Stones, Monkees, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Bad Company, Marshall Tucker Band, Van Morrison and John Mellencamp.

A trackless train gave kids a ride around the Courthouse Square.

The family fun center included many games, face painting, bounce houses, a small fry tractor pull and also a chance to pet a rabbit. The Cornell Cooperative Extension brought the rabbit and also made tickets available for the upcoming fair at buy one get one free ($10 for week-long admission).

Abby Smith, the CCE communications coordinator and digital literacy program coordinator, joined CCE executive director Robertt Batt with the rabbit. The mini lop is owned by Batt’s daughter, Gracie.

The band V3 performed at the west end of East bank Street in the food court. They are shown singing “Zombie” by The Cranberries. V3 includes lead singer Kole Moore, Alex Fitzak on guitar, Jesse Neely on bass, and Shelby Starr, the drummer.

Today’s schedule includes:

  • 8 a.m. – 5k/8k race with start on East State Street near Courthouse
  • 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. – Craft vendors open (Craft Area Sponsored by Renovation Lodge #97: Albion Masons)
  • 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. – Food vendors open with new options and locations for 2026!
  • 10 a.m. – Parade (Sponsored by Nathan Lyman) Marching bands include: The Gates Keystone Police Pipes & Drums, Downbeat Percussion, Mighty St. Joes Alumni Drum & Bugle Corps, Holley/Kendall HS, Pembroke Dragons, Batavia HS, Albion Purple Eagles, Mark Time Marchers, Damascus Shriners Mini-Cars & much more!
  • 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Cruise-In on East State Street (Sponsored by Renovation Lodge #97: Albion Masons)
  • 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. – Soul Street, Food Court East Stage
  • 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. – Black Cherry Voodoo, Courthouse Square Stage
  • 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. –Festival Family Fun Center Free Fun: Main Street with Interactive Family Games, Bounce Houses, McDonalds Characters (2 to 5 p.m.) Other Fun for a Fee: Main Street – “I Got it!”, Face Painting and Caricatures
  • 1 to 5 p.m. – Car Seat Safety Check, Albion Police Department, East Park Street
  • 1 to 5 p.m. – Child Safety IDs, Orleans County Sheriff’s Department, East Park Street
  • 2 p.m. – Turtle Race, Erie Canal Bridge
  • 3 to 5 p.m. – Chris Moore, outside at Marti’s on Main, 20 S. Main St.
  • 3 to 5:30 p.m. – 104 Country, Food Court West Stage
  • 5:30 to 8 p.m. – The Who Dats Band, Food Court East Stage

State title foes set for Medina and Kendall

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 12 June 2026 at 8:11 pm

The matchups are now set for Saturday’s Class B and Class C state baseball tournament championship games.

Medina will face Chester (Section IX) in the Class B championship game at 10 a.m. at Binghamton University.

Kendall will take on Saratoga Central Catholic (Section II) in the Class C title contest at 1 p.m. at Mirabito Stadium in Binghamton.

Medina blanked Utica Notre Dame (Section III) 9-0 and Chester downed Center Moriches (Section XI) 5-2 in today’s Class B semifinals.

Kendall bested Ticonderoga (Section VII) 12-2 and Saratoga Central Catholic edged Tuckahoe (Section I) 5-3 in today’s Class C semifinals.

Green and Cooper miss the Dow tourney cut

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 12 June 2026 at 6:09 pm

Despite putting together a 2 under par round today, Medina’s Melanie Green and her partner Hailee Cooper have failed to make the cut at the LPGA’s Dow championship team tournament being held at Midland, Michigan.

Green and Cooper posted a round of 68 today but that could not offset the 5 over round of 75 the duo carded on Thursday leaving them with a two-day total of 3 over 143.

The cutline for the tourney was 3 under.

Sheriff: $500K state grant will overhaul county animal shelter, bringing it into compliance

Posted 12 June 2026 at 5:42 pm

Press Release, Orleans County Sheriff Chris Bourke

ALBION – We are pleased to announce that the Orleans County Animal Shelter, operated under the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office, has received a $500,000 grant under the 2025-2026 New York State Companion Animal Projects Funds Grant Program.

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Inspectors issued reports in 2024 and 2025 indicating that our shelter was not in compliance with current and newly enacted standards with respect to the infrastructure and animal housing areas of our facility. Undersheriff Donald Draper Jr., along with our Animal Control Officers, worked with the NYS Ag and Markets Officials to identify the areas of our shelter in need of improvement  The Companion Animal Projects Grant application required a tremendous amount of work including identifying contractors to provide quotes for the mandatory upgrades to bring us into compliance with state standards.

The Orleans County Animal Shelter needs concrete replacement, drainage repair and replacement, new inside and outside kennels and related equipment, a new HVAC system for proper temperature control, electrical work and lighting, resizing the inside housing areas for dogs and cats to meet new standards along with other structural work.

The Orleans County Sheriff’s Animal Control Officers will continue to respond to calls for service regarding issues with dogs and cats. We will temporarily house cats when necessary pursuant to the NYS Public Health Law and the Agriculture and Markets Law. We currently have very limited suitable space for cats.

Our Shelter cannot be a drop-off location for cats, but we are working closely with our cat rescue partners locally and in Western New York to find suitable placements for cats in need of care and housing. We are also in the process of rebuilding our shelter’s volunteer program along with partnering with local rescues to ensure we provided the opportunity for as many animals as possible to find new homes. Our goal is to serve our community and care for our animals to the best of our ability.

Strawberry Festival opens in Albion with lots of food, music

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 12 June 2026 at 2:48 pm

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – Everly Sprague, 3, of Kendall gets a strawberry painted on her face by artist Alex Thom of Lockport.

The Albion Strawberry Festival started today and has a full schedules of events over two days.

Becky Karls leads the festival committee in her third year as chairperson. She said there are 75 arts and crafts vendors, 25 food vendors and 25 other businesses with displays at the festival.

She said the committee has worked hard the past year on the festival.

Trevor Thaine is committee leader of the arts and crafts vendors. The 75 vendors this year is up from 65 last year. Thaine said the vendors come from as far as Oswego, Albany and the Finger Lakes. Most are from Orleans County and the neighboring counties.

The crafters like the small town feel of the Strawberry Festival and the big crowd after the parade on Saturday. The parade starts at 10 a.m.

Thaine has been a vendor the past 15 years as an ambassador for Tastefully Simple.

Christine Mann serves up a pulled pork meal with cole slaw at Mann vs. Food which she runs with her husband, Scott, who is in the back. East Bank Street is full of food vendors.

A customer looks to try some of the kettle corn, which was available in several flavors, including strawberry.

Pastor Al Wilson and his wife Ykeeta serve up a strawberry shortcake in abooth run by the Royal Body Shop Ministries.

The festival schedule for today includes:

  • 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. – Food vendors open
  • 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. – Craft vendors open (Craft area sponsored by Renovation Lodge #97: Albion Masons)
  • 3 to 7 p.m. – Festival Family Fun Center Free Fun: Main Street Pedal Tractor Pull, Interactive Family Games, Bounce Houses
  • Other Fun for a Fee: Main Street – “I Got it!,” Trackless Train, Face Painting and Caricatures
  • 4 to 6:30 p.m. – Chicken BBQ and Strawberry Shortcake, First Presbyterian Church
  • 4 to 6:30 p.m. – Feedback, Food Court East Stage
  • 5 to 7 p.m. – Stanton Rock N Roll Band Courthouse Square Stage
  • 6:30 to 9 p.m. – V3, Food Court West Stage
  • 7 to 9 p.m. – Jim Aina outside at Marti’s on Main, 20 S. Main St.

Mustangs score shutout to claim their elusive first state Class B semifinal diamond victory

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 12 June 2026 at 2:25 pm

Photo by Cheryl Wertman – Medina players celebrate after downing Utica Notre Dame 9-0 in the state Class B semifinals this morning at Binghamton University. Catcher Hadrian Batista hugs pitcher Preston Woodworth as Jimmy Dieter, Aidan Papaj and Carlos Doval rush in to join the celebration.

Sparked by a big early inning scoring burst and the sharp shutout pitching of Preston Woodworth, Medina blanked Utica Notre Dame 9-0 in the semifinals of the state Class B baseball tournament this morning at Binghamton University.

The victory in the state semifinals is the first in four tries for the Mustangs which will now face the winner of this afternoon’s semifinal between Chester (Section IX) and Center Moriches (Section XI) in the championship game at 10 a.m. Saturday at Binghamton University.

Preston Woodworth hurled Medina to the state semifinal victory.

The Mustangs took the lead for good by erupting for 5 runs in the second inning highlighted by a three-run triple by Ryan Pegelow and RBI single by Aidan Papaj and Woodworth.

“I loved it. It felt great,” said Pegelow of his key triple.

Two walks and a hit batter loaded the bases to set up the threat.

On the mound Woodworth blanked the Jugglers on 3 hits and registered 9 strikeouts.

“It feels really good,” said Woodworth. “Getting all of those runs in that inning early was really big. It helped make me more comfortable.”

The Mustangs tacked on two runs in the fourth on RBI singles by Vinny Gray and Woodworth and two more in the sixth on an error following singles by Woodworth and Cam Fike.

Woodworth finished with 4 hits as Papaj and Fike both had 2.

“They did a real good job but we have one more to go,” said Coach Chris Goyette whose Mustangs improve to 22-2.

In their three previous state semifinal contests the Mustangs lost to Spackenkill 5-3 in 2024, 6-3 to Schuylerville in 2019 and 9-1 to Carle Place in 2003.

Ryan Pegelow had the big three-run triple which keyed the Mustangs decisive second innng scoring burst.

Medina catcher Hadrian Batista gets set to catch the ball for the final out of the Mustangs semifinal victory.

Holley village candidate says he would reset focus on infrastructure, taxes

Posted 12 June 2026 at 2:03 pm

Editor:

Tuesday is election day in the Village of Holley. I am running for trustee.

I have been a trustee in Holley before and was also the Coordinator and DPW Chief.

I am running because I believe there needs to be a refocus of priorities. The taxes have increased 25% over the last 3 years, utility rates have gone up multiple times, and additional fees have been added.

No roads paved because the money to do that was taken out. Police building in deteriorating condition because the money to fix it was taken out. Veterans Drive unusable because no one addressed it.

I worked with many boards. Mrs. Formally attended the meetings for the Power Authority and made sure our electric bills stayed stable. Mayors Carpenter and Passarell did streets and water, built the park and did some sidewalk. Mayor Sorochty got the deal to rehab the old school and did major water and sidewalk in Main Street.

Now the focus is on a covered bocce courts, decorations and festivals.

My focus is on cutting taxes, repairing infrastructure and reducing costs.

I also will ask the state to put a crosswalk near the Dollar General to facilitate the pedestrian traffic. I will oppose regulations which make life difficult for the few remaining businesses.

Please consider voting for me.

Ron Vendetti

Holley

Kendall romps in state Class C semifinal

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 12 June 2026 at 1:35 pm

Photos by Cheryl Wertman – Nic Cole hurled Kendall to the state semifinal win this morning and also helped his own cause by banging out a first inning RBI double, which he celebrates at the right.

Taking charge with a huge first inning scoring barrage, Kendall went on to defeat Ticonderoga 12-2 in the semifinal round of the state Class C baseball tournament this morning at Mirabito Stadium in Binghamton.

Kendall, which became the first Orleans County baseball team to reach the state finals, will face the winner of this afternoon’s other semifinal between Saratoga Central Catholic (Section 2) and Tuckshoe (Section 1) in the championship game at 1 p.m. Saturday at Mirabito Stadium.

“It’s a great feeling. The kids have really worked hard for this,” said Kendall Coach Tige Noni whose Eagles improve to 24-2.

CJ D’Agostino lays down a bunt for a single to help ignite Kendall’s big first inning.

Kendall took control at the outset erupting for 6 runs in the decisive first inning on a two-run double by Andrew D’Agostino, an RBI double by winning pitcher Nic Cole, an RBI single by Andrew Cole, a balk and a wild pitch.

A leadoff single by Jonny Conte, a bunt single by CJ D’Agostino and a hit batter loaded the bases to get up the uprising.

“We really got the jump on them and everything got rolling,” said Noni.

Keeping the momentum, Kendall tacked on 3 runs in the second inning on a two-run double by Jacob Abrams and an RBI single by Sammy Conte. A triple by Vinnie D’Agostino set up the threat.

Jonny Conte later had a two-run single in the fourth frame to help close out the Eagles five inning run rule victory.

Jonny Conte, Andrew Cole, Nic Cole and Andrew D’Agostino each finished with a pair of hits.

On the mound, Nic Cole scattered 6 hits and struck out 6.

Note – The Kendall game finished about a half hour before the Medina game giving the Eagles the honor of becoming the county’s first team to reach the state baseball finals.

Andrew Cole bangs out a first inning RBI single.

Kendall’s CJ D’Agostino gets the out at first base to end Ticonderoga’s first inning.

Albion author signs copies of her book for adoring fans

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 12 June 2026 at 11:22 am

Diane Shiffer is a much loved social media influencer who spreads joy, encourages kindness

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – Diane Shiffer holds a copy of her book, “The Smallest of Joys: How to Create Your Own Magic, Let Your Best Be Enough & Find Contentment Exactly as You Are.” The 248-page book became available in April and has earned rave reviews. On Amazon, it has a 4.9 rating out of 5 from 150 reviewers.

Shiffer has been featured in Forbes magazine, The Buffalo News and interviewed on many other podcasts. She also has been mentioned in The New York Times and is included on best-seller lists.

“Whether you’ve been following Diane for years or are just meeting her now, this book is like a warm teacup in your hands and a soft blanket around your shoulders,” Amazon states in promoting the book. “A modern antidote to hustle culture and self-criticism, it’s a reminder that kindness—especially toward yourself—can be a powerful way to live.”

On Thursday she signed copies of her book at Hoag Library. Shiffer has more than 2 million followers through Instagram and TikTok on social media where she is known as the Cubby Vintage Nana. She spreads messages of kindness and loving others.

Shiffer, 68, is a retired Head Start educator and social worker. She started to go viral on social media during the pandemic in 2020 when she posted short videos of her in daily life – baking, sewing, doing household chores, sharing words about kindness, and showcasing some of her vintage finds, such as potholders.

Shiffer, after her book-signing on Thursday, said she was happy to meet people in person. She appreciates the connection through social media and the positive feedback about her book.

“It is very affirming to see it resonating with people,” she said. I appreciate it so much.”

Diane Shiffer signs a book for Judy Tucker of Albion. Shiffer’s son Noah is sitting next to her.

“She’s positive and she shares her joy,” said Tucker, a retired high school librarian. “She is peaceful and loving.”

Shiffer’s son Noah, 27, is a lineman for RG&E. He was earned his Eagle Scout rank in Albion in Troop 64. He said he is pleased to see so many people with a deep appreciation for his mother.

“She’s always been a phenomenon in my life,” Noah said. “She’s my superhero. People ask is she really that sweet in real life. I tell them she’s even better.”

This photo shows Diane Shiffer signing a book for Lori Laine. Shiffer brought a vintage tablecloth for the book signing.

“She’s so calming,” Laine said. “It’s like sitting and having coffee with your grandma.”

Laine said she has been following Shiffer’s videos for at least two years.

“People want to get back to the basics,” Laine said.

Shiffer signs a copy of her book for Rebecca Schiffer, 39, of Medina, who was excited to meet the author. Schiffer brought her two daughters, Mabel and Harriet, right.

“I have been following her for years,” Schiffer said about Diane. “She is always doing the right thing. She is so inspirational.”

Schiffer said Diane is kind, and also courageous. The author wore a “Black Lives Matter” pin during the book-signing.

“She is incredible and spreads so much joy,” Schiffer said. “She stands up for what she believes in.”

Cindy Albone of Clarendon wanted to meet Shiffer in person and attended the book-signing. Albone sees the power in Shiffer’s message.

“It really is the little things,” Albone said. “Most people are looking for something simpler, rather than the chaos.”

Brett Sobieraski to run 400 miles over 8 days in July for Community Action

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 12 June 2026 at 9:31 am

Carlton resident invites people to join him in runs at local high school tracks

Provided photo: Brett Sobieraski, a Carlton resident, is shown on June 4, 2023 entering New York State, the eighth and final state of a 1,300-mile journey on foot. That year he ran 50 marathons in 50 days to honor the memory of Rochester police officer Anthony “Maz” Mazurkiewicz. He was killed in the line of duty on July 21, 2022. Sobieraski raised $110,000 for Mazurkiewicz’s family.

CARLTON – Brett Sobieraski has announced he is tackling another very ambitious, and nearly human-defying endurance challenge: He will run 400 miles over eight days in a  benefit for Community Action of Orleans & Genesee.

Sobieraski, a Carlton resident, plans to run 55 miles each day the first seven days and then 15 miles the final day. He welcomes people to join him on the track, even if it’s just for a lap.

He expects to be out there for about 12 hours each of the 55-mile days, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The schedule includes:

  • Saturday, July 18 – Albion High School for 55 miles
  • Sunday, July 19 – Lyndonville HS for 55 miles
  • Monday, July 20 – Batavia HS for 55 miles (7 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
  • Tuesday, July 21 – East Rochester HS for 55 miles (Special Remembrance Day for Fallen Officers)
  • Wednesday, July 22 – Kendall HS for 55 miles
  • Thursday, July 23 – Medina HS for 55 miles
  • Friday, July 24 – Holley HS for 55 miles
  • Saturday, July 25 – Albion HS (8 a.m. to 11 a.m.) for the grand finale of 15 miles

For more on the 400-mile challenge, including sponsorship, click here or contact Jackie Dunham at Community Action, (585) 589-5605, ext. 110.

Sobrieski, a retired Rochester Police sergeant, currently works as an investigator for the Orleans County Major Felony Crimes Task Force. He also is a member of this year’s Leadership Orleans class.

He has completed endurance challenges before. In 2015, he swam 32 miles across Lake Ontario for a charity that helps support the surviving spouses and children of fallen soldiers. In 2018, he ran over 175 miles for 50 hours nonstop to raise money and awareness for Special Olympics.

In 2023, Sobieraski announced he would be running a marathon every day for 48 days, traveling on foot from Florida and Rochester, going 26.2 miles a day. He would run the marathons to honor the memory of Rochester police officer Anthony “Maz” Mazurkiewicz who was killed in the line of duty on July 21, 2022. Sobieraski also sought to raise $100,000 for Mazurkiewicz’s family.

That goal was expanded to 50 marathons in 50 days, and Sobieraski would raise $110,000 for the family. In the last 5K of the final marathon, 850 people joined him in Rochester.

Sobieraski, despite nearing 60, wanted to tackle a new challenge this year for Community Action. He wants to raise at least $20,000 for the agency which has faced federal and state funding cuts.

“It’s a fantastic organization that is all about giving hands-up, not handouts,” he said. ‘Let’s help them so they can continue to change lives for the better.”

Some of the programs offered by Community Action include:

  • transportation for the elderly and disabled
  • food and clothing
  • home cooling and weatherization projects
  • thrift store services
  • work place job training and counseling
  • prom dresses along with credit counseling for high school students
  • Head Start programs to assist with learning, child care and family services
  • Through their Project Salus, help adolescents with the support from education to financial

Photo by Tom Rivers: Bert Gallmon, left, is the race director for the Albion Strawberry Festival. He helps Brett Sobieraski put on the Strawberry costume for the race five years ago. Someone will often dress as a strawberry during the race. The race will be Saturday in Albion at 8 a.m. Sobieraski plans to be at the race on Saturday.

OCH promotes health and safety at Children’s Wellness Fair in Medina

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 11 June 2026 at 8:46 pm

Provided photos: (Left) Carol Wachob, left, handed out gifts and information for Early Head Start at Orleans Community Health’s Children’s Wellness Fair May 30. Tina Schleede manned the table for Community Action. (Right) Lindsay Wilston does face painting at the Children’s Wellness Fair May 30 sponsored by Orleans Community Health.

MEDINA – Orleans Community Health welcomed nearly 130 members of the community and distributed 53 bike helmets at their Children’s Wellness Fair May 30. The event took place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the park south of Medina Memorial Hospital.

The event served as a fun and educational kickoff to summer, while promoting health, safety and wellness for local children, said Scott Robinson, director of Marketing.

The fair featured a variety of interactive activities designed to engage children while teaching important health and safety concepts. Young attendees had the opportunity to dress like doctors and nurses, take their stuffed animals through a mini exam and test their skills on a specially designed obstacle course.

Several community partners played an important role in the event’s success, Robinson said. Representatives from the Orleans County Department of Mental Health, Community Action and Early Head Start provided valuable information and resources for children and families. Members  of Wrights Corners Boy Scout Troop 40 kept everyone cool by serving free snow cones throughout the event.

A popular attraction was face painting, where Lindsay Wilston, a team member from Orleans Community Health, maintained a steady line of children eager to be transformed into their favorite characters and animals.

(Left) Medina Fire Department brought a fire truck and ambulance, which children enjoyed exploring and learning about firsthand. (Right) Boy Scout Troop 40 from Wrights Corners served free snow cones during Orleans Community Health’s Wellness Fair.

 The village of Medina Fire Department joined the festivities, bringing both a fire truck and an ambulance for children to explore and learn about emergency services firsthand.

A major focus of the event was bicycle safety, and Orleans Community Health distributed 53 bicycle helmets to children, helping ensure they are protected as they enjoy outdoor activities this summer.

Orleans Community Health extends its sincere thanks to all community partners, volunteers, staff members and families who participated and helped make the Children’s Wellness Fair a memorable and successful event.

Orleans Community Health also announced Family Fun Fridays through the summer. These special events will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. on July 10, 24, Aug. 7 (in Lyndonville) and Aug. 21. These activities will be an opportunity to enjoy special events and meet with community organizations throughout the summer. The three in Medina will be in the park south of the hospital, and in Lyndonville at the Yates Park pavilion.

In addition, the July 10 event will include the YMCA doing field day activities, and on July 24, Hometown Wellness will put on a children’s yoga session.