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Winterguard show brings lots of pizzazz, powerful messages in Medina competition

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 15 March 2026 at 4:11 pm

Photos by Tom Rivers

MEDINA – The varsity winterguard for Medina performs on Saturday during its ColorBurst home show at Medina Junior-Senior High School.

The top photo shows Natalie Herbert in blue and Mackenzie Poynter. They are two of the 15 members of the varsity winterguard.

Medina’s show is titled, “A Dream to Me.” It explores the balance “between control and chaos – between dreamer and the dream.”

The Medina winterguard is led by director Melissa Jaeger, instructor/choreographer and drill designer Kara Brown, and instructor/choregraphers Katie Crooks and Kaela Grosslinger, wth assistance from consultant Molly Beth Jaeger.

Maddie Voss carries a flag for the Medina winterguard on Saturday.

Skielair Montgomery looks up and gets ready to catch the twirling flag on Saturday for Medina.

Here are the scores from the competition:

• Novice – Gates Chili, 1st at 62.040

• Cadet – Lancaster 1st at 69.470; Medina JV, 2nd at 67.810; Batavia, 3rd at 65.880; and Marcus Whitman, 4th at 61.120

• Regional A – Greece RA, 1st at 80.000; Victor JV, 2nd at 76.960; Gates Chili RA, 3rd at 76.640; Ventures RA, 4th at 74.860; and Orchard Park JV, 5th at 65.260

• A1 – Marcus Whitman, 1st at 74.550; Hinsdale Headliners, 2nd at 74.320; and Medina Varsity, 3rd at 73.720

• Scholastic A – Victor Blue Devils, 1st at 86.670; Greece, 2nd at 84.340; Lancaster HS, 3rd at 81.450, and Orchard Park, 4th at 74.030

• Independent A – Batavia Varsity, 1st at 81.180

• Senior – Luminosa, 1st at 81.940

The Marcus Whitman Marching Wildcat Varsity Winterguard presented “Mine.” The show asks people to reflect on life’s everyday challenges and demonstrates how witnessing the resilience of others shapes the way we face our own obstacles. At the end of the performance the members each ripped up the paper with the obstacle they were facing.

The Marcus Whitman winterguard includes students from Marcus Whitman and Penn Yann school districts.

Greece High School performed “Mirror, Mirror on the Wall.”

Greece took first place in the Regional A Division.

Gates-Chili Regional A winterguard presented “Oh, The Places You’ll Go,” which is inspired by the book by Dr. Seuss.

The Gates-Chili show gives a message of following your own path, embracing challenges and trusting the journey ahead.

Victor’s RA winterguard presented “A Sky Full of Stars.”

The Hinsdale Headliners presented a show “Lose Yourself” by Eminem with a western twist.

The Ventures Regional A Guard performed “Here Comes the Sun” with music by The Beatles.

The Heritage Hurricanes, all all-abilities guard team, includes performers from Heritage Christian Services and other community members. The group is directed by Medina native Melissa Jeager.

This member of the Heritage Hurricanes gives a peace sign after the performance ended. The Hurricanes’ show was set to “Hand Clap” by Fitz and the Tantrums.

GO Art! puts out call for vendors for 2026 festivals, including 3-day event in Holley

Posted 15 March 2026 at 8:59 am

New ‘Shakesbeer Steampunk Festival’ planned for Orleans County Fairgrounds on Oct. 17

Photo by Tom Rivers: Artisan vendors are along the Erie Canal in Albion on Sept. 26, 2025. There were about 10 different vendors in Albion for the debut Erie Canal Artisan Festival.

Press Release, The Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council

Call for Vendors for our upcoming 2026 festival season. There are multiple opportunities to share your craft with the region.

One of the goals of our festivals is to promote artists and artisans. Therefore, all items sold by vendors must be handcrafted. Third-party resale vendors are not permitted. Vendors are also welcome and encouraged to demonstrate their craft at their booths.

Saturday, June 20, 2026: The Just Kings Juneteenth Community Festival is a celebration for the community to come together to recognize an important moment in American history and celebrate community, culture and freedom.

We’re looking for local artisans, food vendors, small businesses, and community organizations to help make this celebration meaningful and vibrant. This is a wonderful opportunity to share what you offer, connect with the community, and take part in an event that highlights unity, culture and progress.

This year’s celebration will be on June 20 at Williams Park in Batavia. Please visit https://goart.org/juneteenth/

Saturday, July 11, 2026: The Batavia Ramble Explore Art and Music Festival is a family-friendly music & arts festival located in downtown Batavia. With multiple stages, 30+ bands, vendors, artists, performances, food and children’s activities, there is truly something for everyone at this unique hometown event.

It draws in on average 1,000 to 1,500 attendees from the county and across the region. This year, it will take place Saturday, July 11, on Jackson Street between Main Street and School Street. For more information and to apply please visit https://goart.org/batavia-ramble-explore-art-and-music-festival-vendor-information/

Friday, August 28 – Sunday, August 30, 2026: The Erie Canal Artisan Festival will celebrate the rich heritage, arts, and culture of the canal and Orleans County, with artisan vendors as the main attraction. The festival will take place at the Holley Canal Park in Holley, spanning over 2 1/2 days from August 28-30.  For more information and to apply please visit https://goart.org/erie-canal-artisan-festival-information/

Saturday, October 17, 2026: The Shakesbeer Steampunk Festival is a one-day immersive event celebrating Victorian-inspired creativity, innovation, and culture. The festival features artisan and food vendors, live performances, specialty drinks, costume competitions, and interactive activities, appealing to Shakespear enthusiasts, steampunk enthusiasts, families, and cultural explorers alike.

This festival will take place on the Orleans County Fairgrounds in Albion, NY on Saturday, October 17. For more information and to apply please visit https://goart.org/steampunk-festival-vendor-information/

A discount will be given to those vendors who register for multiple festivals (not including Juneteenth).

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Once approved, vendors will receive a notification and payment link.  Spaces are limited, once capacity is reached we will no longer accept applications, so we encourage you to apply early.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out! We hope you will consider joining us for another exciting festival season!

These events are supported through a Market New York grant awarded by Empire State Development and I LOVE NY, New York State’s Division of Tourism.

Funding for GO ART! is made possible in part with support from the New York State Council on the Arts, with support from the office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. Additional funding for GO ART! comes from the Genesee and Orleans County governments, foundations, private donors, and members.

Riley cites successes as Albion village trustee, ready to put in hard work as mayor

Posted 15 March 2026 at 8:30 am

Editor:

My name is Joyce, and I have had the privilege of serving the Village of Albion as a trustee for the past four years. I have lived in Albion since the age of 10, educated here, and raised my family here and retired here to be near family and friends.

Albion is not just where I live — it is who I am. Now I am asking my neighbors for the opportunity to serve as your next Mayor, and I want to share a little of what we have accomplished together.

When I took office, I stepped in to close out a critical Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) that was in jeopardy. With no prior experience in that process, I learned what was needed to successfully and appropriately complete all required reports and paperwork and got it done in time – protecting the village and program participants from losing their financial investments.

I stayed current on communications and, as a result, entered the Village into a class action suit regarding PFAS contamination. Many said we would not qualify. I believed we could, because we test for it and it is not present in our water system, but present in some neighboring farmland. After our department head completed the required paperwork, approximately a year and a half later, we received $75,000 — with the prospect of additional payments for up to ten years. I was also instrumental in the purchase of two new dump trucks that were aged from 1992, that were a risk to the drivers and the public. We secured a USDA grant for $50K and bonded the remainder.

I collaborated with the Town of Albion to establish a shared code enforcement agreement, writing the Memorandum of Understanding myself to ensure both municipalities benefited fairly. I am currently working with the Town of Gaines on a water billing collaboration and grant that has the potential to expand to multiple municipalities — reducing personnel costs, improving reporting accuracy, and revenue generation.

I have written multiple grants for this community: Music in the Parks (twice), a $5,000 GO Art! grant for a local artist Bill Schutt to create a solar-powered lamppost from 100-year-old steel salvaged from the Main Street bridge, and a second artist grant for a new gateway sign on the east side of town celebrating Albion’s connection to Charles Howard — the original Santa Claus. Our staff at the Pollution Control Facility crafted a park bench from that same historic steel, complete with a time capsule, now registered in the International Time Capsule Society. The lamppost and bench are both on display as part of our new Erie Canal Park.

I am in the office regularly and make it a priority to monitor the village’s general, water, and sewer budgets weekly with our clerk. When the sewer fund faced cuts that were not fiscally sound — leaving it in the red — I worked with the Supervisor to develop a PowerPoint presentation to justify a necessary increase and make the case to restore that department to a healthy footing. Our sewer team has always run lean; they deserved support from us recognizing their needs.

None of this work happens alone. I am grateful to the dedicated department heads I work alongside every day: Tracy VanSkiver (Clerk/Treasurer), Jay Pahura (DPW), Levi Boyer (Water), Rick Albright (Sewer), Chief Dave Mogle (APD), Jason Zicari (Cemetery), Chris Kinter (Code Enforcement), John Grillo (Parks and Recreation), Harry Papponetti (Animal Control) and Susan Starkweather Miller (Village Historian). This village runs because of dedicated people like them.

I would also like to recognize the community residents, schools, businesses and property owners that I have worked with on other projects, such as the beautification of the Erie Canal Park. Tim Archer and Carrie Kozody from our Middle School provided a platform showcasing the interest and talents of our youth at many venues around historical events in our town. The students’ parents showed up for them as did many others. This is how we change! Everyone doing their best in their roles in the community together.

As your Mayor, I will carry forward the same commitment to fiscal responsibility, shared services, grant funding, and community pride that has guided my four years as trustee. I will work to bring businesses to our village through the Economic Development Agency and other creative endeavors, continue expanding our pocket parks through grants, advocate for a senior center befitting our county seat, and complete a new Comprehensive Plan that will move this village forward.

On March 18, 2026, I humbly ask for your vote. I am running on both the Democratic line and the independent “Vote for Albion” line. This is not about party — it is about the place we all call home.

Sincerely,

Joyce Riley

Candidate for Mayor, Village of Albion

Local trio playing collegiate baseball

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 15 March 2026 at 6:48 am

Contributed Photos – This trio of former Niagara-Orleans League players are competing on the collegiate diamonds this spring. From left are Roy-Hart graduate Ryan Mettler, who is a junior infielder at SUNY Fredonia majoring in Exercise Science, Roy-Hart grad Brayden Hy who is a sophomore outfielder at Canisius University majoring in Finance and Wilson grad Tyler Johnston who is a freshman pitcher at Niagara University majoring in Sport Management.

Another wind advisory for Orleans, from 5 p.m. Sunday to 8 p.m. Monday

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 14 March 2026 at 9:12 pm

Photo courtesy of Marsha Rivers: The Big Dipper constellation is shown this evening at 8:17 over the Oak Orchard Lighthouse at Point Breeze.

A high wind warning ended at 5 a.m. today in Orleans County, but more gusty winds are headed our way.

The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory fom 5 p.m. on Sunday until 8 p.m. on Monday. South winds from 25 to 35 miles per hour with gusts up to 50 mph are expected Sunday night. The winds become southwest Monday with a few gusts up to 50 mph, the Weather Service said.

The advisory includes Niagara, Orleans, Monroe, Oswego, northern Erie, Genesee, Wyoming, Livingston, Cattaraugus and Allegany counties.

The high temperatures in the coming days include 51 on Sunday, 61 on Monday, 25 on Tuesday and 35 on Wednesday.

Medina mayor has proven compassion, collaborative approach in working on issues

Posted 14 March 2026 at 12:53 pm

Editor:

March 18th is almost upon us…

I may not have known our Mayor for as long as many of you. Time alone isn’t always a fair determinant; quality of time spent certainly can be.

In my dealings and discussions with our Mayor, I have found her to be many things: honest, concerned, invested, committed, compassionate, cooperative, accepting, as well as several additional positive qualities.

At the same time, I’ve not found our Mayor to be: selfish, curt, exclusionary, negative, attacking, accusatory, hurtful, blameful, or a myriad of other traits that proliferate some in our village and society as a whole.

Leadership is an outgrowth of one’s core beliefs when put into action. Our Mayor is in fact about action. Is action swift? Sometimes, but usually not when it comes to challenges that face an entire community.

Our Mayor takes the necessary time to listen, investigate, mobilize resources, make an informed presentation of the facts, and then seek collaborative action. It is not that our Mayor can’t be swift in action, but rather chooses to lead with wisdom before, during, and after that action. Therein lies a distinct difference in the Mayoral election before us.

I urge all of you to consider our Mayor’s accomplishments and progress toward action, in spite of the challenges before her. Our Mayor stepped into her current role from her prior service to and experience with the Village of Medina.

She chose this even though she knew the challenges and issues facing her, us, and the village in the form of tax rates, personnel, equipment, infrastructure, governance, the list goes on. She knowingly asked to take on these responsibilities and she is asking yet again after a short two years as our Mayor. She wants to continue her work and we need her to do so.

Many of you have continued to ask, “What can I do?”

Here is your answer: on March 18th, Go to the polls, vote to re-elect Mayor Sherman.

Respectfully,

Brian Wiesinger

Medina

Sherman has long demonstrated love Medina community

Posted 14 March 2026 at 12:50 pm

Editor:

I am writing this letter in support of Marguerite Sherman for Mayor.

I have known Marguerite Sherman since 1973 when I moved my family to Medina. Marguerite was then an elementary school student at Oak Orchard School.

Over the past 53 years I have witnessed her love and commitment to Medina and its residents.  She has worked, and will continue to work tirelessly for the betterment of Medina’s physical appearance, safety, and financial stability.

It is my opinion that Marguerite should be re-elected as Mayor.

Sincerely,

David Boice

Medina

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.