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Four schools are represented on the first team of the N-O All-League girls basketball squad

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 14 March 2026 at 9:51 am

Photos by Cheryl Wertman – First team All-League honores, from left, Adella Dukes (Roy-Hart), Abby Gerstung (Akron) and Aaliyah Jones (Albion).

Four schools are represented on the first team of the annual Niagara-Orleans girls basketball All-League squad.

Wilson, which shared the N-O title with Akron at 10-2, has placed the senior trio of Bella Thrush, Rowan Simpson and Abbie Faery.

Completing the first team are Akron sophomore Abby Gerstung, Albion freshman Aaliyah Jones and Roy-Hart junior Adella Dukes.

Gerstung, who has been named N-O Player of the Year, is a repeat selection as are Thrush and Simpson.

Wilson’s first team honorees include Abbie Faery, Bella Thrush and Rowan Simpson.

Gerstung scored 340 points (15.45 ave.) and had 133 rebounds.

Faery scored 212 points (9.6 ave.) and had 152 rebounds.

Thrush scored 175 points (7.9 ave.) and had 156 rebounds.

Simpson scored 172 points (7.8 ave.) and had 44 rebounds.

Dukes scored 315 points (15.0 ave.) and had 163 rebounds.

Jones scored 201 points (12.56 ave.)

Five schools are represented on the All League second team as five of the six players are underclassmen:

Akron – Olivia Novak (Sr.) and Clara Bogdan (Fr.)

Albion – Melia Prince (Jr.)

Medina – Alexa Demmer (Jr.)

Newfane – Ah’leena Golden (So.)

Roy-Hart – Courtney Aquilina (Jr.)

Players earning Honorable Mention include, listed by school:

Akron – Cara Swader (Sr.) and Marissa Brege (Sr.)

Barker – Elise Monaco (So.) and Hailey Dodge (Sr.)

Medina – Samantha Heschke (Jr.) and Caliyah St. Louis (Fr.)

Newfane – Julia Noonan (Sr.), Emma Johnson (Fr.) and Julia Leibring (Jr.)

Roy-Hart – Kylie McOmber (Sr.) and Millie Owens (Sr.)

Wilson – Grace Smith (Jr.), Kylee Elia (Jr.) and Lucy Madam (So.)

Shrek shows power of friendship, acceptance in Holley production

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 14 March 2026 at 8:46 am

Photos by Tom Rivers

HOLLEY – Two very different characters – Shrek played by Aidan Kelley and Donkey played by Kallan Babcock – travel together to save a princess who is in a tower in a castle. They work together to get past a dragon to save her.

Shrek is a loner who is most at peace being alone in his swamp. He encounters Donkey and other banished fairytale characters who are sent to the swamp by Lord Farquaad. Donkey brings non-stop chatter and antics that get on Shrek’s nerves.

Holley performed Shrek on Friday night and has two more shows today at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Holley Junior-Senior High School.

Kohle Pachla plays the pint-sized Lord Farquaad, shown with the Duloc Dancers. They perform “What’s Up Duloc?” Lord Farquaad makes a deal with Shrek to save the princess and then he will get his swamp back.

Fiona played by Isla Schultz has been locked away in the castle for 8,423 days or about 23 years. She sings, “I Know It’s Today” when her prince will come and rescue her.

These fairytale creatures are banished to the swamp by evil Lord Farquaad, who calls them freaks. The 3 Lil Pigs are played by Zoey Warner, Brianna Pellegrino and Grayson Kelley. Leo Ladd is the Big Bad Wolf.

Nico Unterborn plays the role of Pinocchio, whose nose stretches out when he tells a fib.

Donkey (Kallan Babcock) strikes a connection with the Dragon, which previously singed most of the princess’s rescuers. Others were held in captivity. Donkey and the Dragon sing, “Forever.” The Dragon is played by Lillian Haight, Nora Lindsay and Alexis VanAmeron.

Lord Farquaad (Kohle Pachla) is torturing Gingy (Layla Jones) into revealing the whereabouts of other fairytale creatures that are still hiding in his Kingdom so he can have them arrested as well.

Gas prices continue climb; diesel tops $5 a gallon

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 13 March 2026 at 5:53 pm

Photo by Tom Rivers: The Crosby’s in Holley at the former JP’s shows the gas prices for today, including the diesel price at $5.19 a gallon.

Gas prices have risen throughout the week in Orleans County, up 27 cents in four days since Monday.

On Monday, AAA reported the average price for regular unleaded was at $3.306 in Orleans County. Today, the average was at $3.576.

Here are the average daily prices in the county since Monday:

  • March 9: $3.306
  • March 10: $3.376
  • March 11: $3.482
  • March 12: $3.536
  • March 13: $3.576

AAA reports the average price in New York State was at $3.538 today, up 31 cents in past seven days and 54 cents in past month. The average price nationally was at $3.630 today, according to AAA.

Diesel at $5.024 today, up from $4.39 a week ago and $4.993 a day ago. A year ago it was at $3.959.

Gas prices have jumped since Feb. 28 as the war and conflict in Iran and the Middle East have pushed crude oil prices to about $100 per barrel.

Here are the average prices in Western New York counties, with Orleans County currently the highest among all those counties:

  • Orleans, $3.576
  • Genesee, $3.479
  • Wyoming, $3.546
  • Livingston, $3.504
  • Monroe, $3.541
  • Niagara, $3.492
  • Erie, $3.525
  • Chautauqua, $3.484
  • Cattaraugus, $3.395
  • Allegany, $3.457

State-wide burn ban in effect March 16 to May 14

Posted 13 March 2026 at 5:17 pm

File photo by Tom Rivers: Firefighters responded to a grass fire in Clarendon on April 21, 2018 on Holley Byron Road.

Press Release, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton today announced that the annual statewide ban prohibiting residential brush burning begins March 16 and runs through May 14.

Since 2009, DEC enforces the annual brush burning ban to prevent wildfires and protect communities and first responders during heightened conditions for wildfires.

“Many of us are looking forward to spring weather after a very cold winter, but with the warming temperatures comes increased fire risk,” Commissioner Lefton said. “That’s why we’re once again asking all New Yorkers to abide by the two-month-long burn ban. The more careful you are with fire, the better we can protect our communities and natural resources as well as our Forest Rangers and firefighters across the state.”

Even though some areas of the state are damp or remain blanketed in snow, warming temperatures can quickly cause wildfire conditions to arise.

Open burning of debris is the single-largest cause of spring wildfires in New York State. When temperatures warm and the past fall’s debris and leaves dry out, wildfires can start and spread easily, further fueled by winds and a lack of green vegetation.

Each year, DEC Forest Rangers extinguish dozens of wildfires that burn hundreds of acres. In addition, local fire departments, many of which are staffed by volunteers, all too often must leave their jobs and families to respond to wildfires caused by illegal debris fires.

New York first enacted strict restrictions on open burning in 2009 to help prevent wildfires and reduce air pollution. The regulations allow residential brush fires in towns with fewer than 20,000 residents during most of the year but prohibit such burning in spring when most wildfires occur.

Backyard fire pits and campfires less than 3 feet in height and 4 feet in length, width, or diameter are allowed, as are small cooking fires. Only charcoal or dry, clean, untreated, or unpainted wood can be burned. People should never leave these fires unattended and must extinguish them. Burning garbage or leaves is prohibited year-round in New York State.

Bowling tournament raised $3,200 for Community Action’s transportation services

Posted 13 March 2026 at 3:15 pm

Photos and information courtesy of Community Action of Orleans and Genesee

ALBION – Community Action of Orleans and Genesee, Inc. is proud to announce the success of its first-ever “Miles for Smiles” Bowling Tournament, which was held at Oak Orchard Bowl in Albion.

There were payouts awarded to the top eight teams. The event brought together sponsors, community members, bowlers, and volunteers for a fun-filled day while supporting an important cause.

Thanks to the generosity and support of the community, the event raised over $3,200, which will go directly toward supporting transportation services in Orleans County, helping ensure individuals and families have access to the transportation they need.

The organization would like to extend a special thank you to Randy Hanks and Curtis Foss of Oak Orchard Bowl for their outstanding support in hosting the event. From coordinating the lanes to ensuring every last bowler finished their game, their dedication played a key role in the success of the tournament.

Community Action of Orleans and Genesee, Inc. would also like to recognize the generous sponsors and supporters who helped make the tournament possible: Info Advantage, Human Energies, Dunham Family Farms, Breese & Associates, LLC / DBA Subway, Orleans Community Health, Board member donation, and a community member donation.

In addition, Community Action of Orleans and Genesee, Inc. extends its appreciation to the staff members, directors, and Board of Directors who volunteered their time throughout the event. Their efforts included organizing and selling basket raffle tickets, managing the 50/50 drawing, assisting with event setup and cleanup, and even putting together bowling teams in support of the cause.

A special acknowledgment goes to Melinda D. and Alishia F., who helped organize and build this fundraiser from the ground up. Their passion and commitment to addressing the needs within the community helped turn this idea into a successful and impactful event.

Community Action of Orleans and Genesee, Inc. is grateful to everyone who participated, donated baskets or gift cards, volunteered, and supported the Miles for Smiles Bowling Tournament. The organization looks forward to continuing efforts that strengthen and support the Orleans and Genesee County communities.

Petitions due April 6 for candidates for 3 seats on Hoag Library

Posted 13 March 2026 at 12:58 pm

Albion library will observe 126th birthday of organization on March 17

Press Release, Hoag Library

ALBION – Hoag Library of the Swan Library Association is celebrating an important milestone this month. The library commemorates its founding on March 17, 1900, and in 2026 marks 126 years of service to the Albion community.

During the March 17 celebration, patrons are welcome to stop by for a cookie provided by the Friends of the Library.

As the library celebrates its long history of community support, it is also inviting residents to help shape its future. Three four-year term positions on the Hoag Library Board of Trustees will be on the ballot this year. Those positions are currently filled by Mary Witkop, Rachel Hicks and Linda Weller.

Community members interested in serving on the board may stop by Hoag Library and pick up a nominating petition at the Circulation Desk. Completed petitions must be returned by Monday, April 6 at 7 p.m.

To be eligible to run, candidates must reside within the Hoag Library service area, which shares the same boundaries as the Albion Central School District.

Voting will take place Monday, May 4 from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Hoag Library. The library’s annual meeting will follow at 7 p.m., at which time the election results will be announced.

The Hoag Library Board of Trustees plays an important role in guiding the library’s mission, policies, and long-term planning so that Hoag Library can continue to serve the educational, informational, and cultural needs of the community.

Anyone interested in learning more about board service is encouraged to visit the library.

Dog park mural will be expanded to include 50 more pet portraits

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 13 March 2026 at 9:58 am

Photos Tom Rivers: Brandi Zavitz is shown last August working on a 32-foot-long mural at Medina Dog Park. She painted portraits of 69 dogs, 3 cats and Orly the Ox (the county’s bicentennial mascot). The mural will get bigger this year with 50 more dog portraits to be added.

MEDINA – The portraits of beloved pets at the Medina Dog Park will be expanded this year to include 50 more dogs.

Brandi Zavitz, a retired art teacher, has agreed to paint more canine companions. People need to pay $150 and send at least two pictures of their dogs, which can be living or deceased. The project is a fundraiser for the Medina Dog Park. The mural also has received funding through GO Art! The grant is less than last year’s amount which is why the portrait fee increased from $100 to $150.

There was an overwhelming response to the mural after it debuted last year. Many people were amazed how Zavitz painted dogs as superheroes with capes, or doing their favorite activities – carrying sticks, playing with balls, eating ice cream or watching a Bills game.

An application to have a pet included on the mural is available on the Friends of Medina Dog Park Facebook page. People can submit photos by May 30 to brandizavitz@gmail.com or text her at 585-798-9780.

In the application, people will be asked to describe their dog’s personality – whether affectionate, goofy, etc., and to note activities the dog enjoys with family.

Kye, Medina’s K9 for nine years, is shown with his super hero cape. He passed away from bone cancer in February 2022. Kye was an 11-year-old Belgian Malinois that served the Medina PD from 2012 to 2021.

Davis and Zavitz wanted a mural to enliven the park. They were talking about it in 2024. Some of the dogs that were regulars at the park had passed away since it opened in September 2020.

Zavitz has painted other murals in the community. She envisioned a mural where she would paint some of those dogs, giving them angel wings. Zavitz has long painted portraits of dogs and she wanted show their personalities and activities they enjoy.

She gave them superhero capes, tutu dresses, a Buffalo Bills jersey and other features to show their character. One dog enjoys sailboat rides so Zavitz painted a sailboat on the mural.

The mural was initially planned to be 24 feet long and would include 50 dogs. But there was a big response last year from the community that Zavitz added another 8-foot-section.

The Medina Dog Park is at fenced-in area on North Gravel Road, next to the village’s former compost plant, just south of Boxwood Cemetery.

Padoleski would bring much-needed change as Medina mayor

Posted 13 March 2026 at 9:35 am

Editor:

I am recommending Deborah Padoleski for Mayor of Medina. I’ve known Deb since Fourth Grade and we worked together at Super Duper right out of High School – me in Produce and she in the Deli.

If one wants to acquire people skills quickly, definitely work a retail or service job. Deb nailed it and taught me a few things along the way.

Later, her 41 years of experience in the Village Clerk’s Office totally prepared her to be our Mayor.

Intrinsically honest, experienced, people-oriented, and humble describes Deb perfectly.

I also believe any of Mark Prawel, Dean Bellack and Jeff Wagner deserve your votes for Village Trustee. All of them are disciplined critical thinkers and doers.

I co-own a business on Main Street and I know that our Business District is the envy of small towns for miles around.

But as one travels outward into Medina’s neighborhoods, there is not so much to envy. As a Realtor, I can see the tax burden wearing on our village.

Over the past several years, there has been much talk, but very little results from the mayor’s office. It’s time to change.

There comes a time for every organization where a “Great Disruption” is needed to break the chains of status quo. I believe that time for Medina is now.

While serving on the MCSD Board of Education, I often reminded myself of that famous saying, “Good is the enemy of Great.” Most recently we’ve heard it in reference to the Buffalo Bills. It means that we sometimes get so comfortable being good, that we stop striving to be great.

This is a transformational election for Medina. It is very important to choose wisely on March 18th.

It isn’t high school student council. This is real life and real consequences.

Not just for us, but for our heirs and beyond. It’s our legacy we are voting on.

Let’s get the right people in place to bring a culture of discipline and accomplishment to Medina government. It’s time to break free of the same old visionless bureaucracy.

It’s time for Medina to be Great!

Deborah Padoleski for Mayor of Medina.

David Sevenski

Medina

Sherman brings work ethic, character in leading Medina

Posted 13 March 2026 at 9:29 am

Editor:

As Medina residents who have raised a family in this community, we care deeply about the direction our village takes and the kind of leadership guiding it. In a small community like Medina, leadership is measured not only by words but by actions. Over the past several years, Mayor Marguerite Sherman has demonstrated both.

She has consistently shown a commitment to preserving the things we value most about Medina while also encouraging thoughtful progress and new ideas. Medina has a proud history and a strong sense of community. Mayor Sherman understands that protecting that character is important, but she also recognizes that communities must continue to move forward. What stands out to us is her ability to balance those priorities. She respects Medina’s past while working to position the village for a stronger future.

Another quality that deserves recognition is her understanding of the financial pressures residents face. Taxes are a real concern for many families, and Mayor Sherman has made it clear that reducing the burden on taxpayers matters. At the same time, she has actively pursued grant opportunities and outside funding for projects that benefit the community without placing additional strain on residents. That approach shows both responsibility and creativity.

We also know Marguerite as an outstanding schoolteacher and a dedicated advocate for students and families. Her background in education has shaped her ability to listen, empathize, and problem solve—qualities that translate directly into her work as mayor. She has always put people first, and those who worked with her in the school community know how deeply she cares about helping others succeed. That same commitment is evident in how she leads our village.

Leadership also means having a clear plan and the experience to carry it out. In this election, it seems clear that there is one candidate who has both a vision for Medina and the track record to back it up.

For these reasons, we encourage our fellow residents to support the re-election of Mayor Marguerite Sherman.

David and Melissa Cotter

Medina

Wilson, Akron head N-O All-League team

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 13 March 2026 at 8:58 am

Photos by Cheryl Wertman – N-O first team honorees, from left, Ryan Hough and Aidan Neumann from Wilson and Mac Capen from Newfane.

Champion Wilson and runner-up Akron have earned five of the six spots on the first team of the Niagara-Orleans boys basketball All League squad.

Wilson, which captured the N-O title with an 11-1 record, is represented by the senior duo of Aidan Neumann and Ryan Hough.

Akron, which posted a 10-2 record, has placed seniors Ben Gerstung and Blake Gerstung along with junior Derren Brooks.

Neumann, who has been named N-O player of the Year, Ben Gerstung and Brooks are all repeat first team honorees.

Completing the first team is Newfane senior Mac Capen.

Akron’s first team All League trio of Blake Gerstung, Derren Brooks and Ben Gerstung.

Neumann scored 518 points (23.5 average) and had 120 rebounds, 66 assists and 57 steals.

Hough scored 258 points (12.3 ave.) and had 182 rebounds, 37 assists and 42 steals.

Ben Gerstung scored 350 points (15.2 ave.) and had 135 rebounds, 87 assists and 34 steals.

Blake Gerstung scored 358 points (15.6 ave.) and had 70 rebounds, 48 assists and 39 steals.

Brooks scored 451 points (19.6 ave.) and had 303 rebounds and 73 blocks.

Capen scored 239 points (11.4 ave.) and had 185 rebounds and 55 assists.

Albion and Medina are both represented by two players on the All League second team.

The Purple Eagles have placed senior Tyler Cody and junior Elijah Doxey.

The Mustangs are represented by senior Jerrell Nealy and junior Preston Woodworth from Medina.

Completing the second team are junior Anthony Taliaferro from Barker and senior Shamus George from Wilson.

Players earning Honorable Mention included, listed by school:

Akron – Ace Abrams (Sr.), Brodie Hill (Sr.), Jackson Pragle (Sr.)

Albion – Nate Gibson (Sr.), Wesley Olles (Sr.)

Barker – JJ Prynn (Sr.), Donovan Hefferon (Sr.)

Medina – Christian Moss (Sr.)

Newfane – Kasey Wheat (Sr.), Isaac Zachary (Sr.) and Camlo Flowers (Sr.)

Roy-Hart – Vinny Fazzio (Sr.) and Matt Aquilina (Jr.)

Wilson – Brock Lepsch (Sr.)

Albion Joint Fire District won’t allow elected commissioner to take office

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 13 March 2026 at 8:42 am

Charlie Monacelli, who was convicted of felony in 2000, says district violating his civil rights

Photo by Tom Rivers: Charlie Monacelli, who was elected to a five-year term as fire commissioner on Dec. 9, hasn’t been able to take office. He attended Thursday’s district meeting, and said the district is violating his civil rights.

ALBION – Voters in the Albion Joint Fire District on Dec. 9 made their voices heard: they wanted Charlie Monacelli to serve a five-year term as a fire commissioner.

Monacelli received 77 votes to the 58 for Derek Howes. However, the joint fire district isn’t allowing him to take office.

The district’s board of commissioners says Monacelli can’t take office due to a prior felony conviction. Monacelli in Dec. 18, 2000 pleaded guilty to attempted burglary in the third degree. He would spend 4 ½ years in state prison. Monacelli then was on parole until 2009.

Kevin Mahoney, an attorney for the fire district, advised the district that the conviction and sentence in state prison “forfeits all the public offices” and Monacelli’s seat should be vacant.

Monacelli has retained an attorney who said the district’s position is a violation of Monacelli’s civil rights. Monacelli handed the fire commissioners Section 79 of the NY Civil Rights Law which states a person convicted of a crime and sentenced to state prison forfeits a public office only “during the term of the sentence.”

Al Cheverie, the chairman of the commissioners, said he would present the documents presented by Monacelli to the district’s lawyer. Cheverie said he shouldn’t comment on the issue publicly.

“Our attorney is dealing with this whole situation,” said Dave Buczek, one of the fire commissioners.

Richard DeCarlo Jr., a local resident and former town justice, attended the meeting and reviewed the paper handed out by Monacelli. DeCarlo urged the fire commissioners to get a second opinion from another lawyer or else the district could face significant liability if it continues to keep Monacelli from taking office.

Monacelli said arson is the only disqualifying crime to serve as a fire commissioner. The district when it posted a legal notice for the election on Dec. 9 stated all candidates for the district need to be residents of the joint fire district (which includes towns of Albion and Gaines) and also can not have any arson convictions.

Monacelli has been an active Albion firefighter for more than 30 years. He has been critical of the district’s budget, including its commitment for a new ladder truck at nearly $2.5 million. He thinks the fire district is spending too much money. He said he stance on spending may be factor in keeping him off the board of commissioners.

He said he could file an Article 78 lawsuit against the district but doesn’t want to spend an estimated $12,000 to continue a legal challenge.

Howes, who came in second in the election on Dec. 9, started as a commissioner in January after Craig Lane stepped down from the unpaid position. Howes was appointed to a one-year term with that spot up for election in December.

High wind warning in Orleans County from noon to 5 a.m. Saturday

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 13 March 2026 at 7:55 am

Photos by Tom Rivers: Two people check out the Holley Waterfalls on Tuesday evening.

The National Weather Service in Buffalo has issued a high wind warning for Orleans County from noon today until 5 a.m. Saturday. The warning also includes Niagara, Erie, Genesee and Wyoming counties.

Southwest winds from 25 to 35 miles per hour with gusts up to 60 mph are expected.

“Strong winds will blow down trees and power lines,” the Weather Service said. “Scattered power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.”

Today is forecast for rain and snow showers with a high of 41 with an overnight low of 27.

The highs then are forecast for 35 on Saturday, 50 on Sunday and 64 on Monday.

A bench stands out in the fog by a pond in Holley along the canal path.

Albion Planning Board gives final OK to Dollar General

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 12 March 2026 at 9:29 pm

This photo shows a printout of a Dollar General rendering of a proposed store on East Avenue in Albion, across from the high school.

ALBION – A new Dollar General received its final approval today from the Village of Albion for a new 10,640-square-foot retail store across from the high school.

Many nearby residents and other community members have expressed concerns about having the store in a congested area near the school where there are many kids walking to and from school.

Karen Conn, chairwoman of the Village of Albion Planning Board

But the Village of Albion Planning Board said they anticipate the store will have a small impact on traffic and pedestrians.

Karen Conn, the Planning Board chairwoman, said the site at 327 East Ave. is in the general business district. The store fits with the zoning.

The Broadway Group, developer for Dollar General, will demolish an existing building that previously was used for auto sales and a warehouse. Ridge Road Station parks school buses on the site.

“Honestly, I think it will improve the neighborhood, compared to what is there now, which is in rough shape,” Conn said.

The Broadway Group will also remove three underground tanks and do other site remediation to Department of Environmental Conservation standards.

The Planning Board worked with the company to improve the original proposed store design, which was more of a pole barn style, said Janet Navarra, a Planning Board member. She said the company is giving Albion its top design for the size of the Albion market.

The Planning Board approved the State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) for the project and went line by line on potential environmental impacts. The board found the store would have small impacts or none on different environmental issues. There are no wetlands for example and the site isn’t in a historic district.

Board members expect to see a minimal impact on traffic. The store will be on Route 31, a state road.

The Orleans County Planning Board on Feb. 26 recommended Albion approve the site plan for the project, saying the store is consistent with a general commercial district and isn’t expected to have any significant negative impacts to the nearby residents or school.

The site is in a school zone with the speed limit at 20 miles per hour, and there is an ice cream business next to the site.

Delivery trucks will come outside of peak hours and will be limited to exiting from the east only. That was a stipulation by the state Department of Transportation.

The Village Planning Board members – Karen Conn, Samuel Robinson, Mike Massaro, Jeff Holler and Janet Navarra – were unanimous in approving the site plan.