By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 7 November 2025 at 10:33 pm
Olean scored a straight set 25-21, 25-20, 25-9 victory over Roy-Hart in the Section VI Class B volleyball state qualifier match this evening at Cheektowaga.
Olean advanced to the qualifier by downing Depew in three sets in the Class B1 final.
Niagara-Orleans League champion Roy-Hart gained a spot in the qualifier by capturing the Class B2 title with a five set win over Salamanca.
Lauren Snyder and Raegan Kern both had 4 spiking kills, Kylie McOmber 3 kills nd 4 aces and Ryleigh Capen 12 assists for Roy-Hart.
Boys Soccer
Section VI champion Wilson edged Section V champion Naples 3-2 in overtime in the Class C Far West Regional this evening at West Seneca as Aidan Neumann scored all three goals for the Lakemen.
The victory advances Wilson to next weekend’s state semifinal.
By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 7 November 2025 at 10:22 pm
Photos by Cheryl Wertman – Barker/Roy-Hart’s Carter DerSarkissian breaks loose for a 61 yard touchdown run early in this evening’s Section VI Class C semifinal game at Barker which was won by visiting Chautauqua Lake/Westfield/Brocton.
Scoring in every quarter, Chautauqua Lake/Westfield/Brocton downed Barker/Roy-Hart 30-13 in the semifinals of the Section VI Class C football playoffs this evening at Barker.
Chautauqua Lake jumped out to a quick 7-0 lead on a 7 yard touchdown pass from quarterback Bryden Gibbs to Asher Olson and an extra point kick by Carson Fairbank.
Barker/Roy-Hart though answered right back to knot the score at 7-7 on a 61 yard touchdown run by Carter DerSarkissian and an extra point kick by Tysen McCaa.
However, Chautauqua Lake regained the lead for good by a 14-7 margin at halftime on a 9 yard TD run by Clayton Smith and a PAT kick by Fairbank in the first minute of the second quarter.
Barker/Roy-Hart did have a chance to retie the game early in the third quarter but lost possession on an interception at the Eagles 4 yard line.
The visiting Eagles then increased their lead to 23-7 late in the third quarter on a 82 yard TD pass play from Gibbs to Olson, an extra point kick by Fairbank and a safety.
Barker/Roy-Hart did cut the deficit to 23-13 two minutes into the final quarter on a 3 yard TD run by McCaa. A big 50 yard pass completion from McCaa to Ashton Ark on a busted play highlighted the drive.
However, the Bulls could get no closer as the two-point conversion attempt failed.
The Eagles capped off the win on a 21 yard TD run by Smith and a PAT kick by Fairbank with two minutes remaining.
Improving to 9-1, Chautauqua Lake will next face C South Division rival, undefeated (10-0) Southwestern in the Class C title game next Thursday at Highmark Stadium. Southwestern downed Eden 55-14 in the other semi.
Barker/Roy-Hart, which captured the C North Division title with a 6-0 record to earn the No. 1 seed, finishes the season with an 8-2 record.
Class D Semifinals
Rivals Newfane and Wilson both scored semifinal wins this evening to advance to next Thursday’s Section VI Class D championship game.
Newfane defeated Silver Creek/Forestville 38-0 and Wilson bested Gowanda/Pine Valley 35-8.
Ashton Ark picks up big yardage for Barker/Roy-Hart on this third quarter pass reception.
Barker/Roy-Hart quarterback Tysen McCaa looks to pick up yardage up the middle. as RJ Townsend (52), Vince Fazzio (26) and Carter DerSarkissian (5) help to clear the way.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 7 November 2025 at 9:41 pm
Photo by Tom Rivers
ALBION – The American flag outside the Orleans County Courthouse is lowered this evening out of respect for Dick Cheney, the former vice president who passed away on Nov. 7 at age 84.
Gov. Kathy Hochul directed American flags on all state government buildings be flown at half-staff in honor of Cheney through interment.
“I am directing flags across New York State to be lowered in honor of Dick Cheney, our former Vice President and lifelong public servant,” Governor Hochul said. “I extend my deepest sympathies to the Cheney family as we remember his life, leadership, and patriotism.”
Cheney’s funeral will be Nov. 20 at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, DC.
Cheney was vice president from 2001 to 2009 under President George W. Bush. Cheney also previously served as secretary of defense under President George H.W. Bush and White House chief of staff under President Gerald Ford.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 7 November 2025 at 6:36 pm
Provided photo: Members of the Albion Betterment Committee board of directors are shown today after acquiring this building on Main Street from the estate of Henri Pulley. From left include Gary Kent, Gary Derwick, Natasha Wasuck, Joe Gehl and Jim Babcock.
ALBION – The Albion Betterment Committee, which has embraced the Santa legacy for the Albion community with several projects, announced its biggest undertaking yet: turning a vacant two-story building on Main Street into a tourism center that celebrates Santa.
“We hope to create a community space where individuals can connect with friends, establish new relationships, and spread some festive cheer into Albion!” the Betterment Committee posted today on Facebook.
The ABC purchased 128 North Main St. from the estate of Henri Pulley. The site is 6,600 square feet.
The Betterment Committee wants to develop an interactive tourism center with displays about the Charles W. Howard Santa School and Christmas Park, which Howard ran for many years near his farmhouse on Phipps Road.
“This is the perfect building for us,” said Natasha Wasuck, a Betterment Committee board member. “We want to help Albion capitalize on tourism.”
Photo by Tom Rivers: This statue of Santa was dedicated on June 10, 2023. It is one of several efforts from the Albion betterment Committee to celebrate the community’s Santa legacy. The mural in back was painted in 2018 by Stacey Kirby Steward. The Albion Rotary Club spearheaded that project with support from the Betterment Committee.
Howard ran a Santa School from 1937 until his death in 1966. It was the world’s first school for Santas. He was a well-known portrayer of Santa, appearing in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade from 1948 to 1965.
The Betterment Committee on June 10, 2023 dedicated a bronze statue of Howard as Santa on Main Street. The group has put up “Believe” signs and backed other efforts in the community celebrating Santa, including the mural of Santa in a sleigh high above the County Courthouse and downtown Albion.
The Betterment Committee envisions the first floor as interactive exhibits and displays, as well as room for a bakery and food operator. Wasuck, owner of the Lockstone events center in Albion, also would like to see the Pulley site offer services, including showers, for canal boaters, cyclists and other visitors.
The second floor is envisioned to offer space for artists – painters, potters, and others in need of studio space. The second floor has large windows that let in natural light that would be ideal for artists, Wasuck said.
The Betterment Committee wants to soon tackle fixing/replacing the roof. The group is seeking grants to help with building upgrades. The group welcomes donations.
“The building is in better shape than people think,” Wasuck said. “It is structurally sound.”
Besides the roof, it will need lots of painting and some new flooring. Wasuck said some volunteers have offered to help with the work.
The Betterment Committee is a 501c3 organization that accepts tax deductible donations. Donations can be sent to Albion Betterment Committee, c/o Joe Gehl at 14487 Baker Rd. in Kent, NY 14477.
Wasuck said a GoFundMe should be live early next week to allow people to donate online.
Photo by Tom Rivers: The Medina Triennial Hub at 345 North Main St. will host workshops and discussions about the Erie Canal today and on Saturday.
MEDINA – The Medina Triennial Hub at 345 North Main St. will host a module dedicated to the Erie Canal today and on Saturday.
This module offers an opportunity to explore the canal through the lenses of Resilience, Care and Stewardship and Cultural Programming.
• “The Canal System: Lessons in Water Scarcity and Public Management” will be presented by Brian Platt and Scott Rybarczyk, with Todd Bensley at Medina High School from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
This series invites students to explore the New York State Canal system as a living structure that depends on careful water management and public responsibility. Led by New York Power Authority/New York State Canal Corporation engineers Brian Platt and Scott Rybarczyk, the classes will look at how canal water is allocated and what happens when water becomes scarce.
Through demonstration and discussion students will learn how decisions about shared resources can be made, what trade-offs are involved and how civic engagement plays a direct role in shaping the resilience of public infrastructure.
• “Reimagining the Erie Canal for its Third Century” will be moderated by Shannon Mattern today from 2:30 to 4 p.m. and will feature Rebecca Hughes, Deputy Director of Canals; Dave Mellen, Regional Manager and SVP of Canals; Gabrielle Barone, VP of Business Development for the Orleans EDA; and Charles Torres from the Ralph Wilson Foundation.
This session explores the challenges of maintaining and repositioning the canal as it enters its third century of operation. Framed within a broader dialogue on strategic infrastructure stewardship, it welcomes external guests in a forward-looking conversation on maintenance and long-term care.
Meet-and-Greet at 4 p.m. offers a chance to meet the curators, artists, panelists and NYPA experts at the Hub.
• “Cultural Perspectives” will be the focus of a discussion on Saturday from 12.30 p.m. to 2 p.m. This will feature Angelyn Chandler, VP Planning New York Power Authority; Natalie Stetson, Executive Director at the Erie Canal Museum; and invited artists: Sarah Cameron Sunde, Judit German-Heins, Clara Riedlinger and Alon Koppell.
In this session the Erie Canal’s artists in residence (2024 and 2025) will share their reflections on the canal’s legacy and the evolving relationship between infrastructure and cultural identity.
• Workshop: “Bodies of Water/Bodies in Water” with artist Sarah Cameron Sunde on Saturday from 2 to 4 p.m.
2025 AIR artist invites the people of Medina to gather at the edge of the Erie Canal to explore their relationship with water, place and time through their bodies. This workshop will be slow, spacious, and centered on attunement – both to the natural rhythms of the canal and to each other.
Together, artist and participants will practice noticing, listening, and responding to the water as a collaborator and witness, using movement, writing, and dialogue.
ALBION – In response to the recent stop to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit payments due to the federal government shutdown, Orleans County Emergency Management, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health), the county Department of Social Services, and the Orleans County Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD) have collaborated to create a new online, one-stop hub to help residents find free or affordable sources of food.
The hub also provides links to 211NY, CODE BLUE, and additional county social services and mental health resources.
The COAD, which is a coalition of local nonprofits, faith-based organizations, government agencies, and volunteers, recognized the growing need for a single reliable information source for residents. The group worked closely with the various COAD partners to develop a single location where residents can find information regarding food pantries, food drives, and free or reduced cost meals.
“This initiative reflects the county’s and COAD’s shared mission of strengthening community resilience,” said Lynne Johnson, chairman of the Orleans County Legislature. “By pooling resources and expertise, Orleans County is ensuring that residents know that help is out there and available to everyone.”
Residents, by clicking here, can access the resource center and explore the various options available to them.
“The halt to SNAP benefits has placed an added burden on many families across the county that are already facing economic challenges,” said Justin Niederhofer, director of Emergency Management. “This issue is impacting over 10 percent of our residents, so our goal is to ensure that every resident knows where to turn to get the help they need.”
Holli Nenni, commissioner of Orleans County Department of Social Services, wanted to remind SNAP recipients that any available SNAP benefits that remain on the SNAP EBT card are still available for use.
“Recipients can check their card balance online at ebtEDGE.com or by calling 1-888-328-6399,” said Nenni. “And, of course, we will release any updates from the SNAP division of the Office of Temporary and Disability as they become available.”
Provided photo: Assemblyman Steve Hawley is shown with Rep. Elise Stefanik at an event in Buffalo last month.
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) has announced his endorsement of Congresswoman Elise Stefanik ahead of next year’s gubernatorial race.
Rep. Stefanik announced her bid today alongside a wave of support from members of the Assembly Minority Conference as they seek to take on the one-party rule in Albany that has driven up the cost of living and driven out working families from our state. Hawley believes Rep. Stefanik is the best choice to take on Albany’s failed leadership and usher in a new era of prosperity in New York.
“I’m proud to be able to throw my support behind such a qualified and motivated candidate to bring common-sense policies back to Albany,” Hawley said. “Working families across our state can rest assured they will have an advocate fighting for them against the radical and out-of-touch policies being pushed by the Hochul administration. Her record of success shows she is fit to lead our state as we work to make New York a better place to live, work and raise our families.”
Hawley also referenced Gov. Hochul’s unashamed embrace of Socialist policies through her endorsement of now Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, saying the current administration has become out of touch with the needs of working New Yorkers.
“While Gov. Hochul has spent the last month in New York City campaigning for a Socialist, Elise Stefanik has been meeting with residents across our state who are struggling to make ends meet and put food on the table,” Hawley said. “New York doesn’t need another politician promising free handouts. Our state needs a strong leader who will fight against these radical policies, not advocate for them when it’s convenient. I’m confident Rep. Stefanik will be that leader for our state and provide the common-sense change that has been lacking in Albany for decades.”
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 7 November 2025 at 9:07 am
Kari Hagglund sent in this photo from Thursday night of a nearly full moon in Albion.
Orleans County could see some snow for the first time this season on Sunday night. There are snow showers in the forecast for Sunday night and a chance for more snow showers on Monday and Tuesday night.
The highs and lows in the coming days include 58 today with a low around 40 tonight, followed by a high of 46 on Saturday with an overnight low of 36, and a high of 49 on Sunday with an overnight low around 29.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 7 November 2025 at 8:36 am
Photo by Marsha Rivers: This photo in Holley is at the road leading to the Holley Waterfalls on Oct. 26.
It’s nearly over for the fall foliage season. The state has been doing weekly updates on fall foliage the past nine weeks. This week is the final report with nearly the entire state “past peak.”
The state has been promoting the foliage season with “leaf peepers” who enjoy the brilliance of the autumnal colors.
Map from I Love New York: While nearly all of the state is past peak, there are still vibrant colors on the trees in New York City.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 7 November 2025 at 8:11 am
Assemblyman Hawley to serve as parade grand marshal
Photo by Ginny Kropf: The Parade of Lights Committee is meeting regularly to finalize plans for this year’s spectacular event, scheduled Nov. 29 at the conclusion of Medina’s day-long Olde Tyme Christmas Celebration. Clockwise, from left are Kevin DeHollander (Santa Claus), Dave and Gail Miller, Kathie Valley, chair Jim Hancock and his wife Barb, Nikki and Todd Bensley, Cindy Robinson and Sue DeHollander (Mrs. Claus). The group was meeting at the home of Reinhard Rogowski, standing at rear.
MEDINA – For the 17th year, Medina will host a spectacular Parade of Lights at the conclusion of the village’s Olde Tyme Christmas Celebration Nov. 29.
Parade committee members who are meeting regularly to plan the event include chair Jim Hancock and his wife Barb, Dave and Gail Miller, Kathie Valley, Todd and Nikki Bensley, Cindy Robinson, Kevin and Sue DeHollander (Santa and Mrs. Claus) and Reinhard Rogowski, who hosts the meetings at his home.
Hancock has announced they have chosen Assemblyman Steve Hawley of Batavia as this year’s parade grand marshal.
“The vote for Steve was unanimous,” Hancock said. “Steve has been with us for the past 10 to 12 years. He has served as our announcer out of the goodness of his heart. “
Entries are slowly being received, Hancock said. He is thrilled to see several first-time entrants, but also looks forward to the old favorites returning. Last year, 23 of the more than 40 floats entered registered during November, and Hancock hopes there will be an influx of entries before the Nov. 25 deadline this year.
The event will welcome a new musical group this year – the Hit Men, who will perform in Rotary Park at 5 p.m.
Other musical groups who will march in the parade include Medina’s Mustang Marching Band, Pembroke High School Marching Band and the Mark Time Marchers.
Parade floats can be entered in six different classes, which are listed on www.christmasinmedina.com, along with entry blanks. Prize money of $4,000 will be awarded, including a Grand Prize winner.
Corporations are also encouraged to sign up for five different levels of sponsorship – diamond, platinum, gold, silver or bronze. Sponsorship forms can also be found on the Christmas in Medina website.
Photo by Tom Rivers: Heveron Electric put a lot of effort into its float in last year’s Parade of Lights on Nov. 30, 2024. Parade organizers urge businesses, organizations and residents to enter a float in the Nov. 29 parade.
By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 6 November 2025 at 9:33 pm
Akron captured a sixth straight Section VI Class C field hockey championship by downing Niagara-Orleans League foe Barker 3-0 this evening at Alden.
Mackenzie Tomporowski scored what proved to be the game winning goal for Akron with seven minutes to go in the third quarter breaking a scoreless deadlock.
The Lady Tigers quickly doubled their advantage just five minutes later on a goal by Morgan Tomporowski.
Morgan Tomporowski tacked on Akron’s final goal with 8 minutes to go in the fourth quarter.
Goalie Marissa Brege anchored the defense for Akron which has now registered shutouts in all 13 games against N-O League opponents this season.
Improving to 15-1, Akron will next face East Rochester from Section V in the Class C Far West Regional at 2 p.m. Saturday at Alden.
Provided photos: From left include Sheriff Christopher Bourke, Employee of the Year John Doyle, and Director of Personnel Katie Harvey.
Press Release, Orleans County Department of Personnel
ALBION – The EAP Committee is tasked to recognize employees of the month. This is a very important and a very special occasion when fellow county employees are recognized for not only their service to the citizens of the county but to recognize those individuals who go above and beyond their duty.
The EAP Committee receives nominations from fellow employees and department directors and then the nominations are reviewed and discussed by the committee and a selection is made.
The employees of the months for the past year were:
• October 2024 – Craig Lane (Department of Public Works)
• November 2024 – Bert Mathes (Department of Public Works)
• December 2024 – Kathleen Bates (Office for the Aging)
• January 2025 – Cynthia Walter (Social Services)
• February 2025 – Dawn Hazel (Mental Health)
• March 2025 – Audra Fisher (Emergency Management)
• April 2025 – Maria Strathearn (Social Services)
• May 2025 – Dustin Wells (Sheriff)
• June 2025 – Shelby Willis & Page Smith (Sheriff-Dispatch)
• July 2025 – Samantha Lawson (Social Services)
• August 2025 – John Doyle (Sheriff)
• September 2025 – Gerald Bentley (Sheriff-Dispatch)
Employee of the Month attendees include from left: Craig Lane (Public Works), Bert Mathes (Public Works), Kathleen Bates (Office for the Aging), Dawn Hazel (Mental Health), Audra Fisher (Emergency Management), Maria Strathearn (Social Services), Dustin Wells (Sheriff), Shelby Willis (Sheriff-Dispatch), Page Smith (Sheriff-Dispatch), Samantha Lawson (Social Services), John Doyle (Sheriff) and Gerald Bentley (Sheriff-Dispatch). They were recognized at the Fairhaven Inn.
From this pool of candidates, a Department Head must make a recommendation to a separate committee to determine the Employee of the Year. The committee takes into consideration the service that an employee has performed before choosing the Employee of the Year.
Throughout the past year, our employee of the year has shown exceptional dedication to keeping the public, county buildings, staff, and visitors safe. His proactive approach, professionalism, and commitment to public safety have strengthened the sense of security for everyone in our community and workplace.
His attention to detail and quick actions have helped prevent incidents, reduce risks, and create a safer environment across our county. His calm and professional presence brings confidence and reassurance to all who interact with him.
This employee demonstrates consistent service, awareness, and dedication. His work to protect the public, county employees, and our buildings reflects both outstanding skill and a strong commitment to the safety of those who rely on them each day.
The Sheriff’s Office and Orleans County appreciate his service to the department and the community. His interactions with the public are thorough and professional. Qualities that make him deserving of this award.
I am pleased to announce this year’s Employee of the Year is John Doyle.
Photo courtesy of Albion Elks Lodge: Pictured from left: Niccole Moore (Albion Elementary Social Worker), Angela Conway (Elementary Principal), Marv Christ (Elks member), Joan Christ (Elks member), April Flesch (Elks member), Lynda Standish (Elks member), and Mickey Edwards (Albion Superintendent of Schools).
Press Release, Albion Elks Lodge
ALBION – The Albion Elks Lodge #1006 recently organized a donation of $4,000 worth of essential items to Albion’s Ronald L. Sodoma Elementary School to help support families in need this school year.
The donation included $2,000 worth of various hygiene items, shoes and basic clothing items; and $2,000 worth of winter coats.
Albion Elks members worked with school social worker Niccole Moore to understand what would be most useful for families. The Elks delivered the first donation of supplies earlier this school year, and the final donation of coats this past week.
“This contribution is incredibly meaningful to our district, as it allows us to help meet the needs of students and families within our community,” Moore said. “With the cold weather quickly approaching, these coats will be especially beneficial in ensuring our students stay warm and comfortable throughout the season.”
Families in need can connect with Moore, the school’s main office or their teacher for more information.
“Our mission is to help build stronger communities and improve the quality of life for our neighbors through grants obtained by our Elks National Foundation,” said Mike Jenks, Albion Elks Exalted Ruler.
Jenks also encourages Orleans County high school seniors to apply for the many scholarships the Elks has available. More information can be obtained at their schools.
ALBION – In response to the recent stop to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit payments due to the federal government shutdown, Orleans County Emergency Management, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health), the county Department of Social Services, and the Orleans County Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD) have collaborated to create a new online, one-stop hub to help residents find free or affordable sources of food.
