Sponsored Post
Albion Rotary honors Amy Sidari for community service, career running dance studio
Photo by Tom Rivers
ALBION – Don Bishop, Foundation director at the Albion Rotary Club, presents a Paul Harris Fellow award to Amy Sidari during the Rotary meeting last Thursday at the Tavern on the Ridge.
Photos courtesy of Marlene Seielstad: Amy Sidari stands with Albion Rotary Club President Tom Rivers.
The Paul Harris award is named for the founder of Rotary and is the club’s highest honor.
Sidari recently retired after 28 years as owner of the Gotta Dance by Miss Amy studio on West Bank Street. She has been a dance instructor in Albion for 38 years.
Rotary commended her for being a “dynamic force for good in Albion for the past four decades.” Gotta Dance has been a welcoming studio for people of all ages and abilities.
Sidari has used the dance studio to host many community fundraisers and events, including an annual Nicholas Kovaleski Hometown Christmas to support a scholarship in memory of Nicholas, who passed away from leukemia at age 15 in 2011. The Hometown Christmas shows raised more than $25,000 in scholarships which are given to Albion seniors who follow Nicholas’s mission of “Live with Purpose.”
Amy also puts on many shows with musicians and comedians at the Cabaret at Studio B. Those shows bring in many buses of people to Albion, providing entertainment and a needed spark for the downtown.
Sidari and her husband David have five children: Jillian, Kristin, Keith, Kyle and Gina. Amy and David also have three grandchildren: James, Jonah and Charlotte.
The Rotary Club also had the “changing of the guard” last week with a new president and officers sworn in for the 2025-26 year. Tom Rivers hands the gavel over to Dick Remley who will lead the organization the next year.
The club was busy the past year with community efforts, including the Albion Strawberry Festival, a golf tournament (with proceeds going to a transportation program at the Office for the Aging and clothing and readiness fund for the Job Development Agency). A St. Patrick’s ham dinner supported school supplies in a rural part of Honduras that were delivered by Tim Archer, advisor of the Interact Club in the school district.
The Rotary Club also completed a memorial for the 15 people who died in the Sept. 28, 1859 bridge collapse in Albion. That monument, completed by Brigden Memorials, is in Albion’s Canal Park.
The Rotary Club also welcomed many speakers throughout the year and the club contributed to other projects in the community.
Rotary last week also welcomed Michael Schmackpfeffer as a new member.
White Birch sweeps twin bill; Banes wins
White Birch swept to a doubleheader victory Monday evening downing Jr. Wilson 15-9 and Dubby’s 6-5 to improve to 6-1 in Medina Women’s Softball League ‘A’ Division action.
In the other game, Banes regained the .500 mark at 3-3 with a 15-11 win over Parkitect.
White Birch 15, Jr. Wilson 9
Aubrey Lewis, Ella Lewis and Anna Lewis each had a double and two singles and Kenzi Muck and Bekah Hoffee a double and single to highlight the White Birch offense. Maddy Boyle added 3 singles as Stacy Buckland, Dana Cotriss, Mallory Albone, Lily Kompe and Brynn Howell each had 1.
Stormi Beach had 4 singles and Sara Flansburg 3 singles for Jr. Wilson.
White Birch 6. Dubby’s 5
Ella Lewis and Buckland both had a double and a single, Cotriss 3 singles, Boyle, Albone and Howell 2 singles and Aubrey Lewis, Anna Lewis, and Hoffee 1 single for White Birch in the narrow win.
Jayden Townsend and Kelsee Soule both had 2 doubles for Dubby’s.
Banes 15, Parkitect 11
Morgan Allis and Connie Heschke both had 4 hits including a double and triple to lead the Banes attack. Krissy Scharlau, Rileigh McCabe and Teri Scharlau each added 3 hits. Krissy Scharlau’s included a double.
Breaking away from a 6-6 tie, Banes regained the lead for good by scoring 4 runs in the fourth inning on a double by Heschke, a home run by Lindsay Chatt and singles by Allis and Teri Scharlau.
Banes upped the advantage to 14-7 by scoring 4 runs in the sixth on singles by Krissy Scharlau, McCabe, Teri Scharlau, Patti Page, Sophia Goyette and Heschke.
NY launches free community college program for in-demand fields
‘SUNY and CUNY Reconnect’ covers tuition, books and fees for New Yorkers ages 25-55
Press Release, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Office
Governor Kathy Hochul today launched New York’s free community college program for SUNY and CUNY students as part of her fight to lower costs for New Yorkers and make education more affordable.
Starting this fall through SUNY and CUNY Reconnect, New York State will cover tuition, fees, books and supplies for community college students ages 25-55 pursuing select associate degrees in high-demand occupations.
“The cost of pursuing a degree should never be a barrier for New Yorkers — that’s why we’re opening the doors of opportunity at SUNY and CUNY so that students can achieve their dreams,” Governor Hochul said. “I’m fighting to make education more affordable and accessible, and the Reconnect program will continue to pave the way forward for students as they enter our State’s future workforce.”
As part of Governor Hochul’s 2025 State of the State address, free community college for adults in high-demand fields builds on her legacy of ensuring that all New Yorkers have access to a world-class and affordable education.
For the four million working-age adults in New York who do not already have a college degree or credential, the free community college program for adult students provides a valuable education at SUNY and CUNY campuses, with tuition, fees, books and supplies all covered after applicable financial aid. In addition, eligible students will have access to advising and support.
New York State has stepped up as a national leader in many emerging industries such as semiconductor and advanced manufacturing, renewable energy and AI. As a result of these investments, many of the new jobs available in New York will require workers with a degree or credential to fill these specialized positions. The SUNY and CUNY Reconnect programs will help connect eligible New Yorkers to these job opportunities.
In order to be eligible for the program, students will enroll in high-demand fields including:
- Advanced manufacturing
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cybersecurity
- Engineering
- Technology
- Nursing and allied health fields
- Green and renewable energy
- Pathways to teaching in shortage areas
In order to ensure that students have the tools they need to succeed, the program includes funding for SUNY and CUNY to support retention through wrap-around supports such as academic advising and student success coaching. In addition, it also includes funding to support marketing for effective outreach for the program.
SUNY Reconnect, launching in fall 2025, will help empower New Yorkers and serve as a powerful engine of upward mobility for hard-working adults. Through SUNY Reconnect, community colleges will hold information sessions this summer to assist all who are interested in eligible degree programs. Information can also be found by clicking here.
Holley romps in girls U15 soccer contest
Improving to 4-0-1, Holley bested Greece United 6-1 in a Rochester District Youth Soccer League girls U15 Division game Monday evening.
Addie Crosier scored 3 goals to lead the Holley offense as Carsyn Mogle, Audrianna Lana and Veronica Flow each netted 1.
GCC won’t increase tuition and fees for 2025-2026 academic year
Press Release, Genesee Community College
BATAVIA – Genesee Community College is proud to announce that tuition and fees will remain flat for the 2025-2026 academic year, reinforcing the college’s deep commitment to providing high-quality, affordable education to students and families across the region.
The decision, approved by the Genesee County Legislature, ensures that students can continue pursuing their educational and career goals without the burden of increased costs.
“Access to education should never be out of reach because of cost,” said Dr. Craig Lamb, president of Genesee Community College. “By holding tuition and fees steady, we’re giving our students and their families peace of mind, and a clear path forward. This is about empowering individuals, strengthening communities and changing lives.”
The tuition freeze is especially significant in today’s economic climate, where many families are struggling to balance rising expenses. With no increase in tuition or fees for the upcoming academic year, GCC remains one of the most cost-effective college options in Western New York, making it a smart choice for recent high school graduates, adult learners and career-changers alike.
In addition to its affordable pricing, GCC offers a wide range of scholarships, financial aid resources, transfer agreements with four-year institutions and innovative academic programs designed to meet the demands of today’s workforce.
With the 2025-2026 budget now approved, GCC is actively enrolling students for the fall semester. Prospective students are encouraged to visit www.genesee.edu/apply to learn more about applying, financial aid and the many ways GCC helps students succeed.
In Albion, ‘Joe’ has made a difference through decades of service
Editor:
The Albion Betterment Committee’s founders got together with their wives on Tuesday, June 24th, to celebrate the 93rd birthday of their inspirational leader. Without his extraordinary guidance our 501 c-3 non-profit would not exist.
This short piece is an attempt to pay tribute to him. As he shuns the spotlight, we will not mention his last name. But he is not your average “Joe”.
Yes, he is involved in many worthwhile causes, including those he supports through the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He is a lover of history and works to keep our awareness of the accomplishments of past generations alive. Being a Korean War veteran himself certainly has better enabled him to appreciate our country’s history.
Thanks, Joe, for your patriotism. You are an outstanding role model for our young people and the many generations to come. We are honored to have worked with you on a variety of projects.
Sincerely yours,
Gary Derwick and Gary Kent
Albion
Tenney seeks federal grant program to help pay for memorials honoring veterans, first responders
Press Release, Congresswoman Claudia Tenney
WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24), alongside Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), reintroduced the Remembering Our Local Heroes Act to direct the Secretary of the Interior to establish a grant program to provide funding for memorials honoring veterans, law enforcement officers, and firefighters.
“Our veterans, first responders, and law enforcement officers embody the very best of our nation, and we must honor their courage and selflessness,” Congresswoman Tenney said. “This includes preserving local memorials, which serve as powerful reminders of these heroes’ legacies and sacrifices. The Remembering Our Local Heroes Act ensures that communities in New York and across the country have the resources needed to maintain and restore these tributes for future generations.”
“First responders, members of the military, and all those who have served our nation deserve to be honored and remembered for their service and sacrifice. This bipartisan legislation will help communities in New Hampshire and across the country build, maintain, and restore memorials honoring our heroes, ensuring that they will never be forgotten,” said Congressman Pappas.
Sponsored Post
Fireworks will be back in Albion on July 3, capping celebration at Bullard Park
File photos by Tom Rivers: File photo by Tom Rivers: Carmen Quatro stands on top of a fire truck and watches the fireworks on July 5, 2014 at Bullard Park. It’s been about a decade since there was a fireworks show at the park.
ALBION – On July 3, fireworks will be back at Bullard Park, capping a day of activities including concerts.
Many local donors contributed for the return of fireworks. It’s been about a decade since the last fireworks show at Bullard.
Several bands will be performing that evening. Ryan and Company will play from 4 to 6 p.m., 104 Country from 6 to 7:45 p.m., and The Who Dats from 8 p.m. until dusk, when fireworks will be set off.
Along with music, there will also be a chicken barbeque taking place from 4 to 6 p.m. Tickets can be purchased from G-ACRE staff members at Bullard Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 1, 2 and 3. Chicken barbeques may also be purchased directly during the event on a first come, first served basis, up until they are sold out.
The organization G-ACRE (Greater Albion Community Recreation and Events, Inc.) hosts various activities, with profits going toward the beautification of parks and other acts of service for the community.
“I personally feel this is a good thing, to come out and enjoy a very inexpensive evening and support the community,” said John Grillo, event coordinator and Albion recreation director. “There will be a big tent set up for shade if needed, but feel free to bring lawn chairs to enjoy the music.”
The Who Dats are shown performing from the amphitheater at Bullard Park last year as part of a July 3rd celebration.
The evening will include food and beverage vendors, artisans and crafters, and community organizations.
Children’s activities that will be available at the concert include bounce houses, pony and wagon rides, and face and rock painting.
The event tends to attract a large crowd. While there are plenty of parking spaces at Bullard Park, in the case of overflow, community members may also use the primary school and Town of Albion for parking purposes.
Donations to the Independence Day Celebration, as well as buying from the chicken barbeque, are appreciated. All proceeds go right back to Bullard Park and future Independence Day concerts. Checks for donations should be addressed to the Village of Albion and use the memo “fireworks.”
The day before the July 3 concert, Soul Street will be performing at Bullard Park on Wednesday as the summer concert series continues to provide to the community.
Holley man, Daniel Morehead, facing multiple charges for bomb threat at county building
Daniel T. Morehead
ALBION – A Holley man faces multiple charges today after showing up to the Orleans County Mental Health Department claiming he had a bomb strapped to his body.
Daniel T. Morehead, 30, has been charged with making a terrorist threat, placing a false bomb in the 1stdegree, menacing 2nd degree, attempted assault on a police officer and harassment 2nd degree.
Sheriff Chris Bourke said Deputy John Doyle received an alarm from the Mental Health Building at 11:47 a.m. Doyle works out of the County Office Building, next door to Mental Health.
Doyle was advised by staff outside Mental Health that there was a man in the lobby stating he had a bomb.
Photo from Orleans County Sheriff’s Office: Daniel T. Morehead arrived at the Mental Health Department claiming he had a bomb strapped to his body.
Deputy Doyle maintained a visual as additional deputies and command staff arrived, Bourke said.
Morehead was given command to exit the building. He was ordered out of the lobby, ordered to remove the vest/carrier which he had strapped to his body, and ordered onto the ground where deputies took him into custody, the sheriff said.
“Morehead was extremely agitated and combative with deputies, including kicking Lt. Steve Fox in the hand,” Bourke said.
The Orleans County Sheriff’s Drone Unit was on scene and was able to zoom in close and determine that the possibility of a threat did exist from the items visible in the bag. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Bomb Unit responded to the scene. By using an X-ray device, the contents of the bag were examined. The items consisted of WD-40, batteries, wires and other miscellaneous items, Bourke said.
Morehead was transported to the Orleans County Jail and is awaiting arraignment in C.A.P. Court today at 7 p.m.
The Orleans County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the State Police, the Albion Police, the Orleans County Emergency Management, Orleans County Probation Department, the NYS D.E.C Police and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.
“Orleans County Mental Health was evacuated during this incident and a large perimeter established for everyone’s’ safety,” Bourke said. “The Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the assisting agencies, the county employees, management staff and the public for their patience during this nearly four-hour event.”
This incident is under investigation and further charges are pending, he said.
Kendall celebrates 53 graduates in Class of 2025
Photos courtesy of Kendall Central School: The Class of 2025 was seated on stage for Friday’s commencement in the school auditorium.
Press Release, Kendall Central School
KENDALL – Fifty-three seniors graduated from Kendall Junior/Senior High School on Friday.
The students entered the JSHS Auditorium to “Pomp and Circumstance,” followed by the Presentation of Colors, which was carried out by Somer Baker and Vincent D’Agostino. The graduation band then played “America the Beautiful” and Vocal Effect followed up with a performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
After Superintendent Nicholas Picardo welcomed attendees and stage guests, Salutatorian Isabella Goodrich took a moment not to reflect on time spent on school, but on the future and its overwhelming – yet exciting – uncertainty.
(Left) Retired teacher Carolyn Sweeting gives the keynote address during commencement. (Right) Isabella Goodrich, the class salutatorian, will be attending Penn State to pursue a degree in pre-medicine, with the goal of becoming a pediatric surgeon.
Goodrich urged them to lean into unpredictable moments, as it’s only by pushing past fears and navigating roadblocks that opportunities arise.
“Don’t be afraid to choose the path that feels a little uncertain – because that’s usually where the best adventures begin,” she said. “Take risks. Trust yourself. Make choices that reflect who you really are – not who others expect you to be. The most important decision you’ll ever make is to live a life that’s entirely your own. The future is wide open – and it’s ours to explore.”
Next, Carolyn Sweeting, a retired Kendall Spanish teacher, addressed the graduates. She was chosen by the Class of 2025 as a teacher they felt connected with to give this year’s commencement address.
Sweeting shared three pieces of advice: travel often, know your worth, and be resilient.
She emphasized that travel teaches life lessons and broadens perspectives. “When you travel, you realize the world is way bigger than your problems and your hometown,” Sweeting said.
She urged graduates to value themselves not for what they do, but for who they are. They don’t need to earn approval from others or compare themselves to people on social media. “You’re great because you have unique qualities… and the world is better because you’re in it,” she assured them.
Finally, she spoke about resilience, reminding students that while life will bring challenges, they have control over how they respond. “Resilience is not about pretending everything is fine when it isn’t,” Sweeting said. “We have very little control over what happens to us, but we do have control over how we react to it.”
Vocal Effect sang the national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
Principal Melissa Strelick addressed the graduates, speaking to the power of taking chances.
“This is your moment,” said Strelick. “Your chance to take a step forward, to grow, and to begin your next chapter. Life has a funny way of offering chances when you least expect them. And sometimes, the greatest ones come when you feel the least prepared.”
She noted how when growing up in a small district like Kendall, you learn something special: you’re not just part of a school, you’re part of a community. Being raised in this type of community, where people show up, lend a hand, and genuinely care, is a gift and a spirit that she hopes graduates take with them.
William Kludt stands while a biography is shared about his time a Kendall. Each graduate was highlighted during the program.
Strelick quoted author Kobi Yamada, saying, “‘A chance is something you have to chase, because it’s not always going to wait for you.’ As you step across this stage tonight, I want you to ask yourself: ‘What will I do with my chance?’ I hope you run after it. I hope you mess up a little and get back up stronger. I hope you surprise yourself with what you’re capable of. I hope, years from now, you look back on this school, in this town, and smile – knowing that this was the place where your first big chances began.”
The Presentation of the Class of 2025 followed, with student names and biographies being read by Assistant Principal Mark Driesel, Counselor Jourdan Kludt, and Advisors Mirjam Bauer and Katherine Driesel. Diplomas were presented by Picardo, Strelick and Board of Education President Rachel Fisken.
Colby Hughes gives the valedictorian address. He will be attending Daemen University to pursue a degree in Natural Science, with plans to earn his Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Valedictorian Colby Hughes then took the stage to address his classmates. He reflected on failure as an unavoidable part of life that builds character.
“I’ve failed many more times than I have found success,” he said. “But out of all these failures has come one of the most valuable lessons: success cannot be achieved without failure. Failure is not a measure of achievement. It is a measure of growth. The ability to fail without giving up is the key to succeeding.”
He reminded classmates that their worth isn’t defined by accolades like Top 10 or National Honor Society, but by their journey of self-discovery and hard work.
“It is not what others deem as success that matters,” Hughes said. “These moments have made us realize that it is not the result that is the prize, but the journey to that ending.”
Hughes concluded, “No specific moment of failure defines you as a person. The response to said hardship is the real challenge. Do not view failure as a negative, but instead an opportunity to grow… remember your roots here in Kendall and all of the community members who have helped you grow.”
At the end of the ceremony, as a class, the graduates moved their tassels from one side of their caps to the other, signifying the end of their high school years.
Sponsored Post
Person arrested after making bomb threat at Mental Health Building
County Office Building, Mental Health closed to public while law enforcement investigates ‘credible threat’
Photos by Tom Rivers: Public access is currently closed to the Orleans County mental Health Building on Route 31 after someone made a bomb threat today at about noon.
ALBION – A person has been arrested after making a bomb threat today at the Orleans County Mental Health Building.
That building has been evacuated and the employees are on lockdown and sheltering in place next door at the County Office Building.
Law enforcement is on the scene investigating “a credible bomb threat.”
Access up the driveway off Route 31 to the county buildings is closed to the public.
No other information is available.
Yellow caution tape is on the side of the County Office Building facing the Mental Health Building.
Orleans County is blocking access up the driveway leading to the County Office Building and the Mental Health Building. These photos were taken at about 2:25 p.m.
Albion to host soccer clinic, wrestling camp
The Albion Recreation Department will be hosting a free one day soccer clinic this Wednesday from 10 a.m. until noon at Bullard Park.
The clinic is for boys and girls ages 5 and up.
In addition, the Recreation Department will also be hosting a free wrestling camp at the Albion High gym on Monday July 7 through Friday July 11 from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m.
This camp is for students in grades 4 through 12 who are interested in developing their wrestling knowledge, skills and techniques. The Albion Central Wrestling Coaching staff will be the Directors along with college wrestlers and former high school standouts.
Students will be able to drill techniques, wrestle live and conclude each day with wrestling related games. Participants do not need any experience to attend this camp.
Inexperienced wrestlers will have an opportunity learn the basics skills in wrestling while the experienced wrestler will expand on what they already know.
There is no pre registration and no additional costs. Participants are required to wear gym shorts, t-shirt and sneakers. Please wear your wrestling sneakers if you own a pair
The Willows welcomes Sen. Ortt for tour, chance to meet residents, staff
Photos by Ginny Kropf: State Sen. Rob Ortt chats with residents of The Willows. In front are Arden Dick, left, Joan Roberts and Charlie Ralph. At rear, from left, are Laura Ianni, Dave Nixon and Residents’ Council president Beverly Schultz.
MEDINA – The Willows, an assisted living facility for seniors, welcomed a visit from State Sen. Robert Ortt last week.
The Willows administrator Jacquie Morgante and administrative assistant Jordan Banaszak greeted the senator and his district director Andrew Dugan. Ortt then met the residents, answered questions and toured the facility.
Banaszak said the visit was precipitated by the New York State Health Facilities Association and New York State Center for Assisted Living, who encourage lawmakers to visit these organizations in their district to learn more about adult care facilities and the different levels of care available in the area.
“The Willows is on the lowest level of adult care, meaning we provide supervision and medication management, but no nursing,” Morgante said. “We have a nurse who checks medications, orders meds and communicates with doctors.”
(Left) State Sen. Rob Ortt shakes hands with Sue Luxon, who last year was named “New York State’s Noble Caregiver of the Year.” (Right) Ortt is joined at The Willows by administrative assistant Jordan Banaszak, left, and administrator Jacquie Morgante as he greets residents during a visit last week.
Morgante said The Willows was just recently licensed as a respite care facility, meaning they have four beds designated for respite care for up to 120 days.
“It is private pay only, but we work with families to make it happen,” Banaszak said.
Since purchasing The Willows in November 2023, Morgante said they are trying to do more events for residents. They have purchased a trishaw bike (with seating in the front for a passenger).
Cycling Without Age Through Orleans County comes and takes residents for rides. Other Events include having magic shows and visiting animals, ordering out from local restaurants, ordering Polish food from a Clarence restaurant on Dyngus Day, visiting McDonalds, ordering treats from Hans’s Bakery and on Veterans’ Day giving out menus for Zambistro’s. A local minister comes once a week to do Bible study, which is popular, Banaszak said.
Ortt said getting out to see what’s available in his district helps him to learn what’s going on and make the right decisions when he has to vote on issues that come up in Albany.
“I’d rather be here than in Albany any day of the week,” he said. “I enjoy outreach, and it helps me out.”
Staff of The Willows posed with State Sen. Rob Ortt in front of the facility during his visit last week. From left are administrative assistant Jordan Banaszak, caregivers Mary Schaal and Sue Luxon, administrator Jacquie Morgante and caregivers Tanya Adams and Caren Eckerd.
Ortt toured the rooms, met the staff and chatted with residents, who had a myriad of questions. He was introduced to Sue Luxon, who last year was named New York State’s “Noble Caregiver of the Year.” Luxon is an original employee, who has been with The Willows for 28 years.
Resident Charlie Ralph shared his desire to see a tour boat on the canal, prompting Ortt to stress the benefits the Erie Canal provides.
“Any community which is not utilizing the canal for growth is missing the boat,” Ortt said.
The Willows is a 24-bed facility, of which 16 are now filled, Morgante shared.
