Kendall resident has new book out, “A Whirl of Wind”

Posted 12 February 2026 at 11:29 am

Provided photos: LuAnn Deery Henry, right, has written a new book, A Whirl of Wind. The Kendall resident is also retired as an administrative assistant at Lyndonville Central School.

Press Release, LuAnn Deery Henry

KENDALL – LuAnn Deery Henry is excited to announce the release of her much-anticipated sequel to A Gust of Wind, titled A Whirl of Wind.

This new book takes readers on a powerful journey of self- discovery, love and faith as the story of Katrina continues. A Whirl of Wind is now available in paperback, hardcover, and ebook formats, with the audiobook version coming soon.

A Whirl of Wind isn’t your average love story. It’s a tale about finding your true self, even when life’s storms feel overwhelming.

Katrina’s journey starts when she begins to reconnect with the past. She revisits memories that she’s tried to bury, hoping to understand what went wrong. Her connection with Jack, a man who means the world to her, helps her to search for the guidance and trust she so desires.

The novel continues from A Gust of Wind, Katrina is living at her uncle’s farm, a change of life from where she grew up a different world where life is simple but tough.

Things take a turn when a storm hits. The storm isn’t just about bad weather, it’s a metaphor for the emotional chaos Katrina is going through. As the winds pick up and the skies darken, Katrina’s life starts to feel like it’s spinning out of control. She’s caught in a storm of emotions and memories, unsure of how to move forward. But in the turmoil, she has a choice.

Katrina turns to prayer and reflection, searching for guidance in the quietest moments of her life. It’s in these moments of stillness that she discovers the peace she’s been longing for. The more she lets go of the past and opens herself to the future. She realizes her own confidence and faith and is able to share it with others; her family and friends, as well as the people in the town of Widow’s Peak.

Katrina’s journey has setbacks and moments where she doubts herself. But that’s what makes it real. It’s a story of growth, a reminder that self-acceptance takes time, and it’s not always easy. But through the ups and downs, Katrina learns that real strength comes from embracing who you are, flaws and all.

A Whirl of Wind is more than just a romantic story; it’s about embracing change, letting go of the past, and finding your true self. It’s for anyone who’s ever felt stuck, lost, or unsure of where they’re headed. It’s a story of hope, faith, and the power we all have to rewrite our own stories.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re waiting for life to happen, this book is for you. It’s a reminder that you don’t have to wait for the perfect moment, you have the power to create the change you want, starting now. Katrina’s story is proof that, no matter where you are in life, it’s never too late to find peace, love, and self-acceptance.

About the Author:

LuAnn Deery Henry lives in Kendall with her husband Bob and their two cats, Max and Angel. She has always had a passion for writing, and after balancing a full life with family and career, she’s finally made her dream of writing novels come true. Her books, including A Gust of Wind and A Whirl of Wind, focus on themes of faith, personal growth, and the importance of self-love.

LuAnn Deery Henry finds inspiration in her family’s support, her deep faith, and the simple joys of life, like reading, gardening, and learning about her family’s history. Through her stories, she hopes to remind readers that true happiness comes from within, and that we all have the strength to overcome the challenges life throws our way.

A Whirl of Wind is available for purchase at major online retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and through LuAnn Deery Henry’s website. You can get your copy in paperback, hardcover, or ebook format now, with the audiobook coming soon.

Albion increases fine for parking violations from $25 to $40

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 12 February 2026 at 10:55 am

ALBION – The Albion Village Board voted on Wednesday to increase the fines for parking violations.

The board held a public hearing and there wasn’t any feedback from the community.

Police Chief David Mogle suggested the fines be doubled from their current levels of $25 if paid within seven days of the violation, $30 if paid after seven days but within 30 days, and $35 if paid after 30 days.

Board members didn’t want to double the fines. They opted instead to set the fines at $40 if paid within a week of the violation, $50 if paid after a week and within 30 days, $65 if paid after 30 days.

The Albion Police Department is almost out of parking tickets and will soon be ordering more. Mogle advised the board the fine amounts had not been changed in many years.

The Police Department can issue parking tickets for parking in the street overnight from Nov. 15 to April 15, parking in a no parking zone, blocking a fire lane, parking closer than 10 feet of a fire hydrant, double parking, parking in handicapped parking spot without a permit, parking on curb or sidewalk, and overtime parking.

The board also held a public hearing on Wednesday on increasing the term from two to four years for the clerk-treasurer, deputy clerk and deputy treasurer.

There were no public comments and the board approved the new four-year terms to run concurrently with the mayor’s four-year term.

Candidates file petitions to run in Albion, Medina village elections

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 12 February 2026 at 8:44 am

Both villages have contested races for mayor, trustee

ALBION/MEDINA – The candidates are set for the March 18 village elections in Albion and Medina with the two communities having races for mayor and trustee.

In Medina, Marguerite Sherman is seeking re-election to a two-year term as mayor. She is running under the “Village Party.”

Deborah Padoleski, a current trustee and retired Medina village clerk/treasurer, is challenging Sherman, a retired special education teacher. Padoleski and Sherman have often been at odds with each other the past two years over the purchase of a new ladder truck for the fire department and a one-bay addition to house the vehicle.

Padoleski said Sherman and the previous board didn’t properly plan for the new truck and addition. Padoleski led the effort to have the new truck declared surplus at Monday’s Village Board meeting, saying that $1.7 million expense plus at least another $1 million for the fire hall addition are unaffordable for the community.

Sherman said the ladder truck is needed and the costs will only rise if the village has to sell this one and eventually pursue another one. The fire hall from the 1930s is in need of upgrades and is too small for the new truck. Sherman has tried to get Padoleski and the majority of the board to back grant applications for the fire hall addition but has been unable to get a consensus so far.

Padoleski is running under the “People’s Party” and is joined by Trustee candidates – Mark Prawel, a current trustee, retired Medina police officer and car mechanic; and Jeffrey Wagner, the owner of the former Apple Grove restaurant in Medina.

Dean Bellack, an active volunteer for the YMCA, United Way and Lions Club, also is running as a trustee under the “Connect Orleans Party.” Bellack has been vocal about the village’s high taxes and need to expand housing options in the community.

In Albion, the Democrats and Republicans held their party caucuses last month. The Democrats picked Joyce Riley, a current village trustee, to run for mayor.

The Republicans backed Tim McMurray, a current trustee for mayor, and also supported Kevin Sheehan and Jami Allport for village trustee.

Sheehan was on the Village Board for many years until 2020. He also worked as Albion’s code enforcement officer and is retired an a union plumber and pipe fitter. He is currently a commissioner for the Albion Joint Fire District.

Allport is the executive director of the Genesee-Orleans Ministry of Concern and the cheerleading coach at Albion.

Tuesday at 5 p.m. was the deadline to file independent petitions signed by at least 100 registered voters in the village. Riley submitted petitions for mayor for the “Vote for Albion” party.

Issac Robinson also submitted petitions as trustee for “Vote for Albion.” Robinson is a former Army medic who used to own the Robinson’s Redemption business in Albion near Walmart. He owns a bottle redemption business in Lockport and works in the arcade industry.

“I just wanted to give people a choice,” Robinson said about running as an independent candidate.

Mayor reminds Medina senior citizens of expanded income eligibility for tax exemptions

Posted 12 February 2026 at 7:42 am

Press Release, Medina Mayor Marguerite Sherman

MEDINA – As the cost of living continues to rise, the Village of Medina is highlighting its Senior Citizen Property Tax Exemption as an important way to help older residents remain in their homes and manage increasing expenses.

This exemption is the result of the Village of Medina taking action under Section 467 of the New York State Real Property Tax Law, which authorizes municipal corporations to enact a local law granting up to a 50 percent property tax exemption for qualifying homeowners 65 years of age and older.

The Village’s Local Law was officially filed with the New York State Department of State on March 19, 2024, reinforcing Medina’s commitment to affordability for seniors.

The exemption provides meaningful, income-based tax relief for seniors living on fixed or limited incomes.

Senior Property Tax Exemption highlights include:

Available to homeowners age 65 and older
Authorized under Section 467 of the Real Property Tax Law
Based on annual household income, including Social Security and retirement benefits
Income limit to qualify: $24,700
Graduated tax exemptions ranging from 20% to 50%, depending on income level

The property must be the owner’s primary legal residence, used exclusively for residential purposes, and owned for at least 12 consecutive months.

Applications with proof of income must be filed with the Assessor’s Office by the taxable status date of March 1. Julie Cecchini is the assessor for both Shelby and Ridgeway.

“Our seniors are feeling the pressure of higher prices everywhere – from groceries to utilities,” said Marguerite Sherman, mayor of the Village of Medina. “By taking action under Section 467, the Village is using every tool available to help ease that burden and ensure residents can afford to stay in the homes and community they love.”

Sherman emphasized that affordability must remain a priority as costs continue to rise.

“Affordability isn’t a buzzword – it’s a responsibility,” she added. “This exemption reflects deliberate action to support seniors and protect longtime residents from being priced out of Medina.”

Eligible residents are encouraged to pick up a form at the Village Clerk’s office, the Town of Ridgeway Assessor’s office, or on either website. Residents must file the application with the Assessor’s office by March 1, 2026.

Lady Tigers top Lady Hawks. Lady Eagles win

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 11 February 2026 at 9:28 pm

Photos by Cheryl Wertman – Alexa Robinson puts up a shot for Lyndonville as Alexis VanAmeron defends for Holley. The action took place during the Lady Tigers home court win over the Lady Hawks this evening.

Notching victory No. 10, Lyndonville downed visiting Holley 59-43 in a Genesee Region League girls basketball game this evening.

Alexa Robinson scored 16 and Isabella Groves 14 to lead the way for Lyndonville. Braelynn Dillenbeck added 8, Lilly Raduns 6, Leah Kenyon 5, Hannah Fox 4 and Rylan Townsend, Annalee Clark and Emily Dill 2 each for the Lady Tigers.

Brynn Thomas scored a game high 18 on six threes to lead Holley. Hanna Ostrom added 7, Mia Thom, Alexis VanAmeron, Jayna Burris and Kyla Burne 4 each and Alexis Lujan 2 for the Lady Hawks.

Lyndonville jumped out to a 24-10 first quarter lead as Robinson scored 12 and Dillenbeck and Kenyon both hit threes.

The Lady Tigers went on to lead by margins of 42-19 at the half and 55-28 at the three-quarter mark. Groves hit a pair of threes and Dillenbeck had two baskets in the second period. Robinson and Raduns then both had a pair of baskets and Groves a three and a two in the third quarter.

Lyndonville, which is now 10-8, next host Notre Dame at 7 p.m. Friday.

Holley, which next visits Kendall at 5:30 p.m. Friday, is now 4-13.

Kendall 58, Byron-Bergen 31
Building up a 30-16 half-time advantage, Kendall went on to down visiting Byron-Bergen 58-31 in another G-R contest.

Teagan Shaw scored a game high 21 for the Lady Eagles as Izzy D’Agostino added 12, Mia Price 11, Sophia Picardo and Stella Kwiatek 5 each and Brynn Hardenbrook and Payton Vogt 2 each.

Alexander 52, Barker 29
Cheyanne Rouse scored 13 for Barker in the 52-29 non league loss to Alexander.

Brynn Thomas puts up a three point shot for Holley as Emily Dill defends for Lyndonville.. Thomas hit six threes on the evening.

Foodlink distribution will be 12:30 p.m. Thursday in Albion

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 11 February 2026 at 5:14 pm

ALBION – A Foodlink distribution that was cancelled on Monday morning in Albion has been rescheduled for Thursday (Feb. 12) beginning at 12:30 p.m.

Community Action of Orleans & Genesee helps run the distribution with community volunteers. Vehicles can park at 165 South Main St., the lot next to Dubby’s Tailgate, and wait to receive a box of food.

DMVs state-wide, including Orleans, to close on Friday afternoon and reopen on Wednesday

Staff Reports Posted 11 February 2026 at 5:05 pm

The Department of Motor Vehicles state-wide will be shutting down at 2 p.m. on Friday and upgrade and modernize their aging technology systems.

The DMVs expect to reopen on Wednesday morning after the Presidents Day weekend. The upgrades are the first segment of a new, modernized system to give customers better and more streamlined service, and to help DMV staff serve New Yorkers more efficiently, the state DMV said.

During this time, the state DMV will migrate about 30 million records to the new system and complete the transition to bring the first phase of the upgrade online. No DMV transactions will be able to be completed during this period, including through the state DMV website, and no one will be available to answer phones.

“With one consolidated, state-of-the-art system, we will be replacing hundreds of software applications, some of which date back to the days of Nelson Rockefeller,” said DMV Commissioner and Chair of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee Mark J.F. Schroeder. “I truly believe it will give our staff the ability to serve New Yorkers better, faster, and more comprehensively than ever before.”

The DMV’s new modernized system will enable employees to process transactions effectively and efficiently in one secure platform rather than moving between outdated systems, further supporting the agency’s goal of one trip to an office and done, Schroeder said.

The new system will also bring additional online transactions, making it easier for New Yorkers to do what they need on their own time and from the comfort of their own homes. And it will help the agency implement future technology enhancements faster and more seamlessly.

In Orleans County, the DMV will close at 12:30 p.m. on Friday. Customers who are in line by 12:30 p.m. will be served. However, all DMV operations cease at 2 p.m. The office will remain closed on Monday and Tuesday.

“February tends to be a slower time of year for DMV offices across the state so this is the best time to implement the system but we understand this can still be an inconvenience for residents,” said Nadine Hanlon, the Orleans County clerk.

Kendall will honor the Eagles undefeated 1975-76 sectional champion team Thursday

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 11 February 2026 at 5:02 pm

Contributed Photo – Kendall’s 1975-76 undefeated Section V Class C championship basketball team will be inducted into the Eagles Hall of Fame Thursday evening. In front are scorekeeper Cathy Herman, Bob D’Agostino, Gary Kludt, Tom Cole, Craig Wolf, Ed Gaesser and John Mikels. In back are Nate Bouie, Jim Gerbig, Phil D’Agostino, Joe Spann, Joe Vick, Roosevelt Bouie and Coach Dick Reynolds.

It was the Golden Age of boys basketball at Kendall High as from the 1972-73 season through the 1976-77 season the Eagles captured five straight Section V Class C championships compiling an overall record of 104-6 including 55 straight wins at one stretch.

Thursday evening, on the 50th anniversary of their accomplishment, the Eagles 1975-76 undefeated (22-0) sectional championship team will be inducted into the Kendall Athletic Hall of Fame. That team was honored as the No. 1 Class C team in the state in the New York State Sportswriters Association poll.

Coached by Dick Reynolds, the 1975-76 Eagles lineup included Roosevelt Bouie, Nate Bouie, Bob D’Agostino, Phil D’Agostino Ed Gaesser, Gary Kludt, Tom Cole, Jim Gerbig, Joe Vick, John Mikels, Craig Wolf and Joe Spann.

Kendall defeated Harley-Allendale-Columbia 73-55 in the championship game as senior Roosevelt Bouie earned his third straight Class C MVP award.

In route to the final the Eagles defeated Arkport 86-37 in the pre-quarterfinals, Avoca 87-41 in the quarterfinals and Geneva DeSales 77-43 in the semifinals.

During their memorable five year title run the Eagles went 19-3 during the 1972-73 season defeating Bloomfield 64-57 in the finals; 21-1 during the 1973-74 season downing Red Creek 74-47 in the finals; 22-0 during the 1974-75 season besting Mt Morris 64-51 in the finals, 22-0 during the 1975-76 season and 20-2 during the 1976-77 season topping Geneva DeSales 64-63 in the finals.

Interestingly, the Eagles undefeated (22-0) 1974-75 team was ranked second in the state in Class C by the NYSSWA poll.

Thursday’s induction ceremony is slated for halftime of the varsity game between Kendall and rival Holley which is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m.

Association of Counties warns of ‘fiscal reckoning’ from federal cost shifts

Posted 11 February 2026 at 4:13 pm

Press Release, NYS Association of Counties

New York’s counties are approaching a fiscal reckoning driven by looming federal cost shifts. That is the warning that the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) is set to deliver in testimony before the Joint Legislative Budget Hearing on Local and General Government later today.

In written testimony submitted in advance of the hearing, NYSAC urged the State to act decisively to protect local governments and property taxpayers from unprecedented federal policy changes set to take effect beginning in October 2026—most notably deep cuts in federal support for administering the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the imposition of steep error-rate penalties.

“New York’s counties are facing a fiscal reckoning,” said Stephen Acquario, executive director of the New York State Association of Counties. “Recent federal actions threaten to shift billions of dollars in new costs onto local governments and local taxpayers. Counties are not here to complain—we are here to partner—but without strong state action, these cost shifts will fall squarely on local property taxpayers and put essential services at risk.”

The testimony highlighted the central role counties play as the delivery system for nearly every state and federal program that touches New Yorkers’ daily lives, from public safety and public health to human services, infrastructure, and care for the most vulnerable residents.

NYSAC expressed support for several components of the Executive Budget, including the continuation of the cap on local Medicaid costs, which they emphasized remains the foundation of county fiscal stability, saving counties and New York City billions of dollars annually.

At the same time, counties stressed that holding the line on state cost shifts alone will not be enough to offset the unprecedented federal changes bearing down on local budgets—particularly in SNAP administration, where counties could face hundreds of millions of dollars annually in new costs and potential benefit error-rate penalties totaling more than $1 billion statewide.

“Counties are being asked to absorb federal decisions that we did not make and cannot control,” said NYSAC President Phil Church. “If the State does not step in as a partner, these costs will translate directly into higher property taxes or painful cuts to core services that communities depend on. Protecting affordability for New Yorkers means protecting counties from these federal actions.”

In addition to immediate federal challenges, the testimony called for reforms to long-standing systems that continue to strain county budgets, including Raise the Age reimbursement, competency restoration under CPL § 730, Safety Net cost sharing, delayed Early Intervention payments owed to counties, and staffing challenges driven by outdated workforce rules.

NYSAC also urged the Legislature to make strategic investments in emergency medical services planning, public health programs, farmland protection, procurement modernization, and infrastructure initiatives that strengthen local economies and community resilience.

“The state-county partnership has never been more critical,” Acquario added. “Counties stand ready with solutions, experience, and a deep commitment to serving New Yorkers—but we cannot navigate this moment alone. The final Enacted Budget must reflect a shared responsibility to protect taxpayers and preserve the services people rely on in every corner of the state.”

Hometown Hero banners from 2023 ready to be picked up in Medina

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 11 February 2026 at 3:31 pm

MEDINA – Families who purchased “Hometown Hero” banners for the first time in 2023 may now take them home to keep.

Mary Woodruff, who originated and runs the banner program in Medina, will be at the conference room at the village clerk’s office on Park Avenue from 9 a.m. top 4:30 p.m. on Thursday for family and friends who want to pick up their veteran’s banner.

Those who wish to have banners mailed to them may contact Woodruff at (585) 798-4438 or by e-mailing mbwoodruff16@gmail.com.

Information on purchasing a banner for spring and summer 2026 will be forthcoming in an article on Orleans Hub in the near future.

U-Haul driver whose passenger died in canal pleads guilty to manslaughter

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 11 February 2026 at 11:37 am

Ryan Armstrong facing up to 4 to 8 years in prison

Ryan Armstrong

ALBION – The driver of a U-Haul truck that plunged into the Erie canal, leading to death of his passenger, pleaded guilty to second-degree manslaughter in Orleans County Court this morning.

Ryan A. Armstrong, 43, admitted to reckless conduct that resulted in the death of Reginald Russell, 56, on Sept. 2.

That day Armstrong was driver a U-Haul truck in a high-speed chase that ended in the Erie Canal in the Town of Murray, east of Holley and Bennetts Corners Road.

Armstrong is accused of stealing items from the Walgreens in Brockport at about 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 2. He and his passenger were putting merchandise in a U-Haul truck when law enforcement were called, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office after Armstrong’s arrest.

Monroe County Sheriff’s deputies and Brockport police officers attempted to stop the vehicle once it was on the move but Armstrong refused, leading law enforcement on a pursuit throughout the west side of Monroe County and into Orleans County.

Armstrong eventually drove onto the Erie Canal path in the Town of Murray and suddenly veered the vehicle into the canal.

“Were you aware that your conduct could result in someone’s death?” Orleans County Court Judge Sanford Church asked Armstrong in court today.

“Yes sir,” he responded.

The judge said the charge of second-degree manslaughter is a C felony where someone’s gross deviation of what a normal person would do results in another person’s death.

Judge Church asked Armstrong if he wanted to plead guilty to the charge, noting his conduct in a high-speed chase and driving into the canal.

Armstrong responded yes, and will face up to 4 to 8 years in state prison when he is sentenced at 9:30 a.m. on April 15. The charge would normally have a maximum of 7 ½ to 15 years in state prison. Armstrong has served three previous prison sentences for other felonies.

He has been in the Orleans County Jail since his arrest with bail at $100,000 cash, $200,000 insurance bond or $500,000 partially secured bond at 10 percent.

Russell was seen exiting the U-Haul on Sept. 2 but went under in the murky water and drown.

Two of Reginald Russell’s siblings attended the court appearance today. Astin Benton said his older brother is deeply missed by his family.

“He was a loving brother, a loving uncle and a caring father,” Benton said.

He would like to see Armstrong get the maximum sentence on April 15, and would have preferred even more time than in the plea agreement.

“My brother was free spirited,” Benton said. “He was the oldest brother and he left bigger shoes that I can’t fit or wear.”

Photo by Tom Rivers: Astin Benton shows the back of a sweatshirt showing his older brother, Reggie Russell at far right, with his family members.

Albion, Medina districts issue joint statement on new merged football program

Posted 11 February 2026 at 10:33 am

‘Coming together and putting the rivalry aside is a win for our students as well as our community’

Press Release, Albion and Medina Central School Districts

ALBION/MEDINA – It was over 130 years ago when the Albion and Medina high school football rivalry first ignited. Now, a new era is set to begin on a united front.

Both the Albion CSD and Medina CSD Board of Education voted this week to combine the school’s football programs in preparation for the 2026 fall football season. At the Feb. 9 Albion CSD Board of Education meeting, the Board voted unanimously in favor of merging the programs. At the Feb. 10 Medina meeting, the Board subsequently followed suit.

This decision follows suit of approximately 90 high schools in Section V and VI who currently participate in merged football programs. These mergers were prompted by similar challenges including declining school enrollment and declining extracurricular participation trends. These challenges affect the school’s ability to maintain a safe, competitive, and developmentally appropriate program for student-athletes.

“The best interests of our students need to always remain top of mind,” said John Kast, Albion Board of Education vice president. “Both schools are familiar with the power of community and we believe that bringing our communities together to work toward the same goal will only make us stronger.”

“As leaders in the community, we have a duty and responsibility to make decisions based on what is best for our students,” said Donnell Holloway, Medina Board of Education member. “Coming together and putting the rivalry aside is a win for our students as well as our community.”

The teams will be combined at all three levels, modified, junior varsity and varsity. Teams need to have a minimum of 16 players. The projected participation for 2026 with a merged team includes 35 at modified, 40 at junior varsity and 29 at varsity.

“We are looking forward to providing a safe and competitive program for our student-athletes,” said Eric Valley, Medina athletic director and varsity football coach. “We hope to foster an exciting environment where school pride, comradery and lifelong friendships can flourish.”

The merger has been an ongoing discussion, becoming more urgent as the section VI deadline approached this month. Both schools were already forced to eliminate their JV programs and have continuously struggled to field full practices. They have already worked collaboratively to host joint practices on multiple occasions last season.

“Like many schools, we have been facing a tiring uphill battle,” said Mickey Edwards, Albion CSD superintendent and alum of Albion’s football program. “We are optimistic that this decision will help ensure long-term program sustainability and offer higher-calibre opportunities.”

Finalized branding including the team name, logo and colors will be shared at a later date. Details on what division the teams will play in are not yet confirmed. The schools are planning for a 5-year agreement, giving the new program time to develop and a better chance of success.

Each school will host two games at all levels, including their own homecoming. Sectional playoff games will alternate between schools. Practices will be split as evenly as possible between the two districts. Each district will be responsible for hiring coaches to represent their district and each level will have coaches from each district.

Medina school officials say fewer discipline referrals, improved atmosphere since cell phone ban

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 11 February 2026 at 8:48 am

District implemented own policy about a year ago, before state-wide ban in September

Photo by Tom Rivers: Mollie Mark, assistant principal at Medina Junior-Senior High School, goes over data on student discipline that shows a drop in referrals since students have been banned from using their cell phones during the school day.

MEDINA – It was just over a year ago when the Medina Junior-Senior High School implemented a “bell to bell” cell phone ban in the school.

Medina started the new policy in January 2025, the beginning of the second semester. The district was ahead of the state which imposed its own state-wide cell phone ban in schools beginning in September at the start of the new school year.

Medina has seen a drop in student discipline referrals since instituting the new cell phone policy, and students report they are better able to focus on their studies. The hallways and cafeteria also are much noisier, which is a good sign that students are talking and laughing with their classmates rather than scrolling on their phones, said Mollie Mark, the school’s assistant principal.

She and Michael Cavanaugh, the junior-senior high principal, presented data to the Board of Education on Tuesday about student discipline and phone violations.

Discipline Data – first semester from September to January

2025-26: 562
2024-25: 727
2023-24: 744
2022-23: 623
2021-22: 1,104

Phone violations

2024-25: 156 first violations, 15 violations and 11 contracts
2025-26: 73 first violations, 8 second violations and 0 contracts

The school policy sets the following discipline for students who violate the cell phone policy:

• First Offense – Student delivers device to the main office and may pick it up at the end of the day.

• Second Offense – Student delivers device to the main office and is held for parent pick-up.

• Third Offense – Student delivers device to the main office and is held for parent pick up. A conference is then held and a contract is put into place with the parent/guardian.

Cavanaugh told the board there has been a “transformative change” in the school building since the new policy started. Students have to keep all devices silenced and in their lockers for the duration of the school day – from 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. That includes cell phones, earbuds/headphones, tablets and smartwatches. (The only exceptions to this policy are with a note provided by a medical doctor and the approval of school administration.)

Cavanaugh interviewed students on video about the policy change and showed their responses.

“People are interacting more with each other rather than sitting on their phone,” one male student said.

Other students said the school atmosphere is much more calmer.

“Everyone gets along better,” the male student said.

Students aren’t recording each other or posting on social media about other students during the school day, reducing a lot of anxiety among students.

“It’s easier to pay attention in class,” another male student said. “It’s less stressful.”

A female high school student said she is better able to focus on her classwork and made the honor for the first two marking periods this school year.

“It’s less stressful because I’m not constantly checking the phone,” she said.

Kendall surges past Byron-Bergen

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 10 February 2026 at 9:57 pm

Improving to 11-5, Kendall downed visiting Byron-Bergen 65-45 in a Genesee Region League boys baskeball game this evening.

CJ D’Agostino scored a game high 22, Vinnie D’Agostino 16, Noah Morehouse and Jonny Conte with 10 each and Sammy Conte 7 to lead the way for the Eagles.

Finishing with double-doubles, Morehouse also grabbed off 16 rebounds and CJ D’Agostino 11.

Cody Carlson and Joe Brumstead each had 19 for Byron-Bergen.

The Eagles led 16-13 at the end of the first quarter and 29-23 at the half before pulling away to a commanding 20 point, 51-31, advantage at the end of the third period.

Kendall will next host rival Holley at 7 p.m. Thursday. At halftime the Eagles 1975-76 undefeated Section V champion basketball team will be inducted into the school’s athletic Hall of Fame.