Scoring runs in bunches, Kendall romped to a 16-1 non league softball win over Aquinas this afternoon.
Izzy D’Agostino, Sophia Picardo and Teagan Shaw each had two hits for Kendall which scored 4 runs in the second inning and 5 in both the fourth and sixth frames. Shaw and Brooke Rodas both had doubles.
Brooke Miller picked up the win in the circle scattering 5 hits and striking out 1.
Photo by Cheryl Wertman – Medina’s Vinny Gray slides into second base with a double ahead of the throw to JFK’s Owen Schmitt during this afternoon’s game at Vets Park won by the visiting Bears.
Stymied on five hits, Medina dropped a 4-1 decision to JFK in the Mustangs non league season opening baseball game this afternoon at Vets Park.
Medina’s lone run came in the sixth inning as Vinny Gray doubled and came home on a single by Preston Woodworth.
Woodworth also had a single in the first inning, Cam Fike a double in the fourth inning and Jacob Duffina a single in the seventh to account for the Mustangs other hits.
JFK scored solo runs in the second and sixth innings and two in the third.
Medina next hosts Alexander at 2:30 p.m. Saturday in another non league contest.
Tonawanda 11, Albion 2
Albion had only four hits in an 11-2 non league loss at Tonawanda.
The Purple Eagles two runs came in the seventh inning on an RBI single by Kaiden Froman and an error.
Gavin Boyce, Elliott Trapiss and Alakai Colmenero had Albion’s other hits.
Tonawanda scored in four of the first five innings tallying twice in the first and second, three times in the third and four more in the fifth.
Albion next hosts Byron-Bergen tomorrow at noon.
I think I might be getting cranky in my old age. Eighty-seven does qualify as “old,” doesn’t it?
What is making me cranky right now are grocery stores. Stores you are familiar with and love shopping at – until one day you walk in and nothing is where it used to be.
I know what their theory is – if you can’t find what you want, you walk around and pick up a cart full of things you had no intention of buying and probably don’t need or even have a use for. But you’ve put more money in their pocket.
That happened to me recently and I was being particularly cranky that day, so I told the lady stocking a shelf that I couldn’t find what I wanted and I was not going to play their games looking for it. I told her one of the things I wanted was corned beef, so I was heading for the meat aisle, which they hadn’t moved, and getting my corned beef and leaving. Then I got in my car and drove to the discount grocery in Albion – where everything is in the same place and there is always a place to park near the door.
Oh yeah. Parking is another issue. Our local discount store some time ago decided to take three prime parking spaces closest to the door and devote them solely to online shoppers. Boy, does that irk me. So they have three spaces for online shoppers, who may or may not be elderly or handicapped, and two parking spaces reserved for “handicapped.” I call that discrimination.
When they first made that designation, I didn’t shop there for a year. Instead I drove 10 miles to the other store, which still has all their handicap parking close to the door. And people who elect to drive to the store and do their own shopping are not penalized.
The way I see it, if for whatever reason, you elect to have someone else do your shopping for you, you have priority. I realize some people find it impossible to physically go to the store, but in the instance of this local store, the online shopper could easily pull up next to the building while the clerk brings his or her groceries to the car. No parking spaces would be occupied.
I go by that store nearly every day, and sometimes several times a day. And rarely do I ever see a car parked in those three “reserved for online shoppers” parking spaces. Yet, the manager of the store told me they are often full. I haven’t seen more than one car there in the nearly two years. And most of the time, they are all empty.
For that matter, online parking spaces could be reserved farther from the door. The store employee who brings the groceries to the car is not handicapped and would have no trouble pushing a grocery cart to the second row or even the back of the parking lot. And leave those spaces closest to the door for those who make the extra effort to come to the store and do their own shopping.
When a shopper, like me, who is elderly and maybe finds walking a little difficult, can’t find a space close to the store, they have to walk all the way to the back of the parking lot, unload their groceries, walk all the way back to return the cart and then make the trip back to the car.
I have even defiantly parked in an online space on occasion, but then decided why should I park illegally to shop at a store that doesn’t consider me a priority.
I tried to shop at that store again, and not only were the two handicap spaces filled, but the entire parking lot was full, except for the very back row, farthest from the door. While the three online shopping spaces were all empty. So you know what I did.
I drove to Albion and spent my $100 there. And I had a parking space closest to the door.
File photo by Eliott Neidert: This photo from February 2017 was taken by a drone and shows part of downtown Albion with the Orleans County Courthouse in the background.
Press Release, Village of Albion
ALBION – The Village of Albion is inviting local business owners to participate in an upcoming Comprehensive Planning Workshop on April 22 at 5 p.m., to be held prior to the Village Board meeting at the Village Office, 35 E. Bank St.
This workshop is an important opportunity for Albion’s business community to share ideas, concerns, and priorities that will help shape the Village’s Comprehensive Plan. The Comprehensive Plan serves as a long-term roadmap guiding decisions about economic development, infrastructure, land use and community growth.
Village officials are specifically seeking feedback from business owners about:
Input gathered during this session will directly inform the goals and strategies included in the Comprehensive Plan. The Village encourages all business owners, whether long-established or newly opened, to attend and help shape Albion’s future.
“This is a valuable chance for the business community to have a voice in planning for the future of Albion,” said Nichola Ostrander. “Your insight is critical to creating a plan that supports local businesses and promotes sustainable growth.”
No registration is required. For more information, contact Nichola Ostrander at info@cmdgroup-usa.com.
Photo courtesy of Cobblestone Museum: The Cobblestone Museum will present a virtual Zoom event about Depression Era glass April 9. Here, a table is set with Depression Era glass for a luncheon at the Vagg House. The blue pieces are Moderntone Cobalt Depression glass. The Zoom program will begin at 7 p.m.
GAINES – The latest Zoom event by the Cobblestone Museum will be on Depression Era glass, presented by members of the Depression Glass Club of Greater Rochester.
At 7 p.m. April 9, Kathy McCarney and Mary Czech, with assistance from Patti Drumright, will provide information on the history of glass made during the Depression Era, including popular patterns, the variety of items found in a typical Depression Era kitchen, how to spot reproductions and the relevance of this this collectible glass today.
McCarney and Czech have each been a member of the Depression Glass Club of Rochester for more than 30 years. McCarney holds the position of vice president and Czech is recording secretary.
“Kathy is nationally known for her knowledge of glass and as being one of the founding members and administrators of the Elegant and Everyday Glass Gallery,” said Sue Bonafini, assistant director of the Cobblestone Museum. “Mary belongs to multiple glass company organizations and loves the hunt for glass.”
The location of the Vagg house at the corner of routes 98 and 104 dates back to 1818. Joseph and his wife Nellie moved there in 1909. Joseph was a blacksmith who later repaired farm machinery. His shop closed in 1956.
After Joseph’s death in 1956, Nellie bequeathed the blacksmith shop and his tools to the Cobblestone Society to preserve as a museum in his memory. Years later, the Vagg house and its contents were acquired by the Cobblestone Society and Museum, who purchased the property after the death of owner Rene’ Schasel in 2019.
In the kitchen cupboards was a collection of Depression glass in pink and cobalt blue Moderntone. American Pattern Glass and pink Depression glass were available in the early 1930s.
For information and reservations for the April 9 Zoom event, go to www.CobblestoneMuseum.org to book online or call (585) 589-9013. A Zoom link will be sent to all participants.
Admission is a sliding scale donation starting at $5.
Photo by Ginny Kropf: The committee heading a meat raffle to benefit Medina Rotary discuss plans at a meeting at The Walsh. Clockwise from left are Liz Landis, Dawn Meland, Skip Helfrich, Carl Tuohey, Cindy Hewitt and Barb Jantzi. The event is scheduled April 25 at Ridgeway Fire Hall.
MEDINA – The Medina Rotary Club will sponsor its third annual meat raffle April 25 at Ridgeway Fire Hall, 11392 Ridge Rd.
Founded in 1923, Medina Rotary continues to serve the community with a handful of members. The group is currently seeking sponsorships from local businesses to support their latest venture, which they call “a fun, community-based event,” according to Cindy Hewitt, who co-chairs the fundraiser with Barb Jantzi and Liz Landis. Other committee members are Dawn Meland, Carl Tuohey and Skip Helfrich.
Sponsorship benefits will include recognition as an official event sponsor, the business name and logo displayed on a printed banner at the event, exposure to more than 150 local attendees and support of the Medina Rotary Club’s mission.
Funds raised through sponsorships will be used to cover four larger door prizes and themed gift baskets for the basket raffle, helping Rotary to create an exciting and memorable experience for attendees, Hewitt said.
“The Medina Rotary Club is proud to support local community organizations and respond to calls of need within Medina,” Hewitt said.
The Medina Rotary Club’s community involvement includes volunteering at the food pantry at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, scholarships for local high school seniors, financial support for local non-profit organizations, assistance for local families in need at Thanksgiving and Christmas and installation of benches in town parks and sports fields. They also provide mattresses for people in need.
Medina Rotary’s main objective is service – in the community, the workplace and around the globe, according to information provided by Hewitt. It is part of Rotary International, a non-political and non-religious group open to all.
The April 25 meat raffle will also include a 50/50 drawing. Doors will open at 6 p.m., followed by the event from 7 to 10 p.m.
Sponsorships of any amount are greatly appreciated.
Anyone wishing to support the meat raffle or looking for more information can contact Medina Rotary Club by e-mail at medinanyrotary@gmail.org.
New members are always welcome at Medina Rotary. Anyone interested will find more information by logging on the group’s website (click here).
A huge seventh inning scoring burst earned Roy-Hart a 13-7 win over host Maryvale in a non league baseball game this afternoon.
Breaking away from a 6-6 deadlock, Roy-Hart erupted for seven runs in the decisive final frame.
An RBI triple by Sean Mettler ignited the big rally which was also highlighted by a two-run triple by John Brigham. A sacrifice bunt by Jared Hy, two passed balls and a steal of home plated the other four runs.
The Flyers scored once in the home half of the seventh.
Mettler had a total of 3 hits on the day and Brigham two.
Earlier the Rams twice rallied from three run deficits to pull even.
Trailing 3-0, Roy-Hart pulled even by scoring three times in the third inning on two passed balls and a fielders choice play.
The Rams later retied the contest at 6-6 with three runs in the sixth inning on two passed balls and an RBI single by John Brigham.
That set the stage for the Rams game winning seventh inning uprising.
Barker 5, Elba 0
Snapping a season opening three game losing streak, Barker blanked visiting Elba 5-0 in a non league contest this afternoon.
JJ Prynn and Drew LaGreca combined to hurl a one hitter for the Bulldogs. Prynn allowed no hits with 10 strikeouts over the first four innings and LaGreca gave up 1 hit and fanned 4 over the last three frames.
Barker took the lead for good by scoring two quick runs in the first inning on a ground out and an RBI single by Grayson Prynn.
The Bulldogs added one run in the second on a bases loaded walk and two in the sixth on a two-run single by Dom Cimato.
Barker will next host Lyndonville at 11 a.m. Saturday.
Photo by Tom Rivers: The price for regular unleaded was at $4.17 on Tuesday at the Crosby’s in Albion at the intersection of routes 98 and 31. The store gives a 5-cent discount for customers with the rewards card, which made the price $4.12. The cease fire with Iran dropped oil prices but the gas price didn’t go down as of this morning in Albion.
The average price for regular unleaded gas in Orleans County is at $4.12 today, according to AAA. That is up 11 cents from Monday when the average price was $4.01 a gallon.
The average price nationally is also up four cents in two days to $4.164 while the average state-wide is at $4.131, up six cents since Monday and nearly 15 cents from $3.985 a week ago.
The gas price could be coming down after Iran and the United States reached a two week ceasefire last night. That news sent oil prices down 18 percent to about $90 a barrel, the lowest price in about a month.
Today’s average diesel price in NYS was $5.957, up about 15 cents from a week ago when it was $5.806.
Press Release, Genesee Community College
BATAVIA – Every successful business begins with a strong idea, but it’s the pitch that brings that idea to life. Whether you’re trying to win over customers or secure funding, your pitch needs to be clear, compelling, and memorable. That’s where GCC can help.
If you have a business concept you’re excited about but aren’t sure how it will resonate with others, consider taking part in GCC’s 8th annual “Business Idea Pitch Competition” on Thursday, April 23, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The event will be held in room T102 of the Conable Technology Building on Genesee Community College’s Batavia Campus.
This free, public event invites aspiring entrepreneurs to present their ideas in a supportive, real-world setting. Participants will compete for prizes of $100 for first place and $75 for second place, with awards recognizing both the “most likely to succeed” and “most creative” concepts. A panel of local business professionals will evaluate each pitch.
“A well-crafted pitch is a critical step in turning an idea into a viable business,” said Dr. Lina LaMattina, director of Business Programs at GCC. “This competition gives participants the chance to develop their ideas, strengthen their presentation skills, and gain valuable feedback from experienced professionals.”
Those interested in participating or learning more must register by emailing Dr. Lina LaMattina at lmlamattina@genesee.edu by Friday, April 10.
Many startups struggle due to limited business knowledge and experience. Rather than risking costly missteps, aspiring entrepreneurs can build a strong foundation through education.
Genesee Community College offers a range of degree, certificate, and micro-credential programs in Entrepreneurship designed to help future business owners and investors succeed. Learn more by clicking here.
Photos by Ginny Kropf: The king and queen of Dyngus Day were crowned Monday night at Sacred Heart Club in Medina. The new royal couple, Patty Jones and Chris Kozody, were crowned by last year’s royalty, Eileen Pettit and Eli Howard.
MEDINA – Dyngus Day couldn’t come and go without a celebration at the Sacred Heart Club.
Although the club on North Gravel Road doesn’t throw the big party they used to for the community, they still observe the traditional holiday for their dedicated members.
J.T. Thomas, president of Sacred Heart Club, and member Chris Kozody spent the weekend cooking the traditional Polish dishes for their Dyngus Day feast Monday night, which also included crowning of a king and queen.
Georgia Thomas, wearing a traditional red outfit for Dyngus Day, fills a plate with authentic Polish food at the buffet Monday at Sacred Heart Club.
Last year’s royalty, Eileen Pettit and Eli Howard, crowned the new king and queen, Chris Kozody and Patty Jones.
Kozody and Jones were both surprised, even shocked, to have been chosen, they said.
Kozody is a dedicated volunteer at Sacred Heart Club, where he cooks for fish fries and Dyngus Day, Thomas said. He also does the inventory and ordering.
Jones volunteers her time at almost every event, Thomas said.
“Whether it’s decorating or working the door or raffles, she is always there,” he said.
During the evening, members enjoyed the feast prepared by Thomas and Kozody, both of whom said they learned to cook from their family – Thomas from his father Ron, who was a butcher; and Kozody from his mom and grandma.
Kozody prepared sweet and sour cabbage and golabki (stuffed cabbage rolls), while Thomas made lazy pierogis, smoked Polish sausage with kraut and fresh Polish sausage. An array of Polish sweets was provided by Hans’s Bakery.
There were also pussy willow branches for guests to take home, another tradition on Dyngus Day.
Thomas said Sacred Heart stopped running a big Dyngus Day celebration for the public several years ago when it became impossible to find a polka band.
Dyngus Day is steeped in tradition. It celebrates the end of the often restrictive observance of Lent and the joy of Easter. Information provided by Thomas says many Polish customs date back to pre-Christian, Slavic practices. The custom of pouring water is an ancient spring rite of cleansing, purification and fertility. The same is true of the complimentary practice of switching with pussy willow branches.
Dyngus Day is associated with the baptism of Prince Mieszko I and his court on Easter Monday in 966 AD. In more modern times, the tradition continued when on Easter Monday farm boys in Poland wanted to attract girls of their choice by throwing water on them and hitting them on the legs with twigs or pussy willows. On Easter Tuesday, the women would return the favor.
Chris Kozody, left, and J.T. Thomas, president of Sacred Heart Club, pose in front of the array of Polish dishes they cooked for Dyngus Day.
Photos courtesy of Medina Central School: Ethan Mulcahy defeats Daniel Diaz to win the 8th grade bracket of Medina’s rock paper scissors tournament.
Press Release, Medina Central School
MEDINA – Seventh and eighth grade classes competed in a rock-paper scissors-bracket competition, creating a fun and spirited atmosphere among fellow students.
Students cheered each other throughout the rounds, adding to the excitement of the game.
The winners were announced in an assembly at the auditorium, where 7th grader Heather Daniels was named grand champion.
“It’s been a great way to make March, which can sometimes feel long, a little more enjoyable for students,” said Joe Byrne, president of the Medina Teachers Association.
Seventh-graders Jacob Lepkyj and Heather Daniels compete in the championship match of the 7th grade rock paper scissors bracket.
Seventh-grader Heather Daniels is crowned the Grand Champion of the Medina, junior high school rock paper scissors tournament.
Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments
The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) are joining communities across the country to celebrate National Public Health Week from April 6-12. This week is a time to celebrate public health successes and learn how GO Health protects and supports the community.
This year’s theme, “Ready. Set. Action!”, highlights the work GO Health does every day to keep our community healthy. Community members are encouraged to learn about our programs and services, including:
In addition to learning about our programs, we encourage residents to explore CredibleMind, a confidential digital platform providing mental health tools and resources for community members. Check it out to get personalized guidance and resources to help you and your family thrive: CredibleMind.
“National Public Health Week is a great time to recognize the work our team does to keep the community healthy,” said Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for GO Health. “I encourage community members to celebrate public health and learn more about programs that promote the health and wellbeing of youth, families, and the community. I also thank our staff, volunteers, community partners, the Board of Health, and County Legislatures. Working together, we make our community stronger and healthier.”
For more information on GO Health programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org.
MEDINA – A three-month major arts initiative, featuring 35 artists from around the world in Medina, needs “engagement guides” to welcome people to the arts attractions.
The Medina Triennial will run from June 6 to Sept. 7. The project has received funding from the New York Power Authority and other sponsors. The Triennial is expected to bring about 50,000 people to Medina over the three months.
The Triennial is hiring 10 engagement guides who will work Thursdays through Sundays and will be paid $19 an hour.
“In this role, Engagement Guides foster positive, meaningful relationships between the Village of Medina and the artists, artworks, ideas, and visitors that make up the Medina Triennial 2026,” the Triennial stated in a job posting.
The guides will receive thorough training and will be working in a dynamic, community-centered environment.
The guides will welcome village residents, community partners and all visitors to the Triennial. They will need to be familiar with the artists, artworks, exhibition sites, and Village of Medina attractions in order to help visitors connect to programs that match their interests, the Triennial stated.
For more information about the position, click here.
By Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communications and Outreach for OCH
As we look ahead to warmer, spring-like weather, it is the perfect time to reset and take an intentional approach to our health and well-being. Small, consistent habits can make a big difference over time, and getting started does not have to be complicated. By building a routine around a few simple, practical steps, you can set yourself up for long-term success.
Here are some basic things you can do to improve your goals:
Remember, improving your health does not require drastic changes overnight. Even small steps, like choosing water over soda, taking a short walk, or going to bed a little earlier, can add up. The key is consistency and making choices that support both your physical and mental well-being. Start today, stay committed, and give yourself credit for every positive step forward.
As you move through the season, consider setting small, achievable goals each week to keep yourself motivated. Whether it is adding an extra serving of vegetables to your meals, scheduling that overdue check-up, or simply getting outside to enjoy some fresh air, every effort counts.
Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage healthy habits, and do not be discouraged by setbacks – they are a natural part of the process. Focus on progress, not perfection, and remember that investing in your health today can lead to a stronger, healthier tomorrow.
April 7 is World Health Day and a great opportunity to get started!
HOLLEY – Holley Central School welcomes senior citizens, 55 and older, in the school district for the annual Senior Citizen Appreciation Breakfast.
It will be from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on May 7 in the Holley Elementary Café.
“Thank you for your continuous support of our students and schools!” the district said. “We appreciate you.”
Senior citizens should RSVP by Monday, April 27 to Connie Nenni at 585‑638‑6316, ext. 2003.
