Facebook

Albion, Medina and Roy-Hart/Barker swim teams prep for N-O season

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 3 December 2025 at 9:25 am

Photos by Cheryl Wertman – ALBION PURPLE EAGLES -Leading Albion into the upcoming Niagara-Orleans League swim season will be this veteran quartet. In front are Keira Sidari and Anna Grillo. In back are Justin Kania and Logan Kast. Sidari won both the 200 Freestyle and 100 Butterfly at last year’s All-League meet while Kania won the 50 Freestyle. Albion will host H-A-C in the non league opener at 5:30 p.m. Friday. The Purple Eagles will begin N-O competition at home on December 11 against Roy-Hart/Barker. The Albion boys and girls teams both went 2-6 in N-O competition last year.

MEDINA SEAHORSES – Anchoring the lineup for the Medina swim squads this season will be this veteran foursome. In front are Maya Anderson and Madeline Mark. In back are Bryson Ford and Bradley Goyette. Ford won the 100 Freestyle at last year’s Niagara-Orleans All-League meet. Medina will visit Pembroke in the non league season opener on Thursday at 5:30 p.m. The Seahorses will open the N-O season at home against Newfane on December 11. Newfane won the N-O boys’ title and share the girls championship with Roy-Hart/Barker last year. The Medina boys went 4-4 and the girls 0-8 in N-O action last year.

ROY-HART/BARKER CHANNEL CATS – Roy-Hart/Barker, which shared the Niagara-Orleans League girls championship with Newfane last year at 7-1 and finished second in the boys’ standings (5-3) will be lead by this veteran group. In front are Cora Lennon, Jillian Ossont and Madelina Pavlock. In back are Oscar Dergel, Noah Corraine, Hank Trombley and Jackson Brauen. The Channel Cats will host Byron-Bergen at 5:30 p.m. Friday in the non league opener and will visit Albion in the N-O opener on December 11.

Medina Memorial LPN receives ‘Caring Heart Award’

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 3 December 2025 at 8:44 am

Provided photo: Lisa McQueen, a licensed practical nurse at Medina Memorial Hospital, has received the Caring Heart Award from NYSHFA/NYSCAL’s western region.

MEDINA – A stellar reputation for kindness, humility and unwavering commitment to the residents she cares for has earned Lisa McQueen the Caring Heart Award.

McQueen has been a valued member of the Orleans Community Health family for six years. She consistently goes above and beyond – offering support to colleagues, lending a hand wherever it’s needed and bringing comfort to those who rely on her.

“Lisa represents the best of what compassionate care truly looks like,” said Tom Bloomer, administrator of Orleans Community Health’s North Wing. “Her warmth, her dedication and her steady presence make a meaningful difference every single day.”

The honor was given by the New York State Health Facilities Association and New York State Center for Assisted Living.

This prestigious award celebrates long-term care professionals who exemplify compassion, service and dedication, said Scott Robinson, director of marketing at Medina Memorial Hospital and Orleans Community Health.

“We are thrilled to celebrate Lisa with this well-deserved honor,” Robinson said. “She is an incredible asset to our team and we couldn’t be prouder.”

The Caring Heart Award reflects qualities that McQueen embodies effortlessly – empathy, professionalism and a deep respect for the individuals and families she serves, Robinson added.

“Her heart for service continues to inspire us all,” he said.

Catholic Bishop seeks more compassion for immigrants, less ‘dehumanizing rhetoric’

Posted 3 December 2025 at 8:21 am

Press Release, Diocese of Buffalo

Photo courtesy of Diocese of Buffalo: Bishop Michael W. Fisher said enforcement of immigration laws shouldn’t use “campaigns of fear that cripple whole communities.”

BUFFALO – In his latest Pastoral Letter, “Once Aliens, Too,” Bishop Michael W. Fisher invokes over 130 years of Catholic social teaching in a call for an end to the dehumanizing rhetoric toward immigrants and renewed respect for their inherent human dignity and basic legal protections.

Bishop Fisher’s Pastoral Letter follows the recent “Special Message” issued by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops on the same topic, and the statement of the New York Catholic Bishops issued on November 13, 2025, “For You Too Were Once Aliens…”

Bishop Fisher references the teachings of several pontiffs, beginning with the seminal 1891 papal encyclical of Pope Leo XIII, Rerum Novarum, in addition to Pius XII, Saint John Paul II, and Pope Francis, in asserting the unequivocal requirement of the Gospels and Catholic social teaching to show preference for the poor and vulnerable, and immigrants, in particular.

Bishop Fisher notes how meaningful immigration reform has been “debated though delayed by both major political parties for decades.”  He further reaffirms the U.S. government’s “duty to secure its borders and ensure that immigrants enter our country legally.”

In doing so, however, Bishop Fisher reiterates the New York Bishop’s assertion that “The requirement to act with charity toward friend and stranger alike … takes precedence over all other imperatives. This obligation to demonstrate empathy and care for those who seek refuge in our country is ‘concerned neither with legal status nor country of origin.’”

Bishop Fisher shared his Pastoral Letter with all priests of the Diocese on Friday, prior to the First Sunday of Advent, acknowledging the “horrible tragedy that occurred in our nation’s Capital this past Wednesday, which has claimed the life of US Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, and critically injured US Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe—both members of the West Virginia National Guard.”  The alleged gunman is an immigrant from Afghanistan.  The Pastoral Letter is being distributed to the broader Catholic community and broader public today.

Bishop Fisher concludes his Pastoral Letter by referencing our nation’s immigrant beginnings: “Mindful that our ancestors were also once aliens in need of compassion, care, and opportunity, we must speak out for those who desire only the same, but whose voices seem not to matter, and whose basic rights—even as immigrants—are so callously cast aside. As a nation, we know in our hearts that we can and should do better. As Christians, we must.”

W-C girls down Albion in non league opener

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 2 December 2025 at 8:53 pm

Unable to overcome a 12 point first quarter deficit, Albion dropped a 50-36 decision at Wheatland-Chili this evening in the non league season opening girls basketball game for both teams.

W-C jumped out to a 19-7 first quarter advantage and maintained leads of 12 points (33-21) at the half and 14 (42-28) after three quarters.

Aaliyah Jones led Albion with 10 as Leah Pawlak and Jocelyn Friedl both added 8, Alexis Neff 6 and Melia Prince and Madison Muckle 2 each.

Albion next hosts Akron in the Niagara-Orleans League opener on December 8.

CSAT 55, Barker 20
CSAT downed visiting Barker 55-30 in a non league contest.

Elise Monaco led Barker with 17 as Cheyanne Rouse added 5, Villete Jary 4 and Mallary Fiacco and Hailey Dodge 2 each.

Wilson 46, Grand Island 38
Wilson topped Grand Island in a non league game as Abbie Faery scored 10, Bella Thrush 7 and Kylee Elia, Grace Smith and Andrea Faery 6 each.

Boys Basketball
Wilson 51, Starpoint 35
Wilson posted a 51-35 win over Starpoint in a non league season opener this evening as Aidan Neumann scored 18, Shamus George 12 and Ryan Hough 11.

 

Multi-agency DWI enforcement sees drop in intoxicated drivers over Thanksgiving holiday

Posted 2 December 2025 at 7:10 pm

Law enforcement issues 38 tickets with saturation patrols on Nov. 26-27

Joint Press Release by Albion Police Department, Orleans County Sheriff’s Office & New York State Police

ALBION – The Albion Police Department hosted and supervised a multi-agency Orleans County Wide DWI Saturation Patrol and 2 checkpoint locations last week beginning on Wednesday at 7 p.m. and ending at 3 a.m. on Thanksgiving.

This detail combined the Law Enforcement efforts from three law enforcement agencies in Orleans County along with the Orleans County Probation Department and NYS Parole.

The agencies involved consisted of the Albion Police, Orleans County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police, with logistical support provided by the Orleans County Probation and NYS Parole. While the Medina Police Department and the Holley Police Department did not participate in the checkpoint each agency conducted saturation patrols in their jurisdiction.

The detail results are as follows:

  • DWI Arrests: 3 – 2 in the Village of Albion (Albion PD), one misdemeanor and one felony; 1 in the Town of Albion (Sheriff’s Office)
  • Vehicles through the Checkpoint: 100-plus
  • Traffic Stops: 68
  • Tickets Issued: 20 by Albion PD, 4 by Orleans County Sheriff’s Office, 4 by New York State Police, 4 by Medina Police, and 6 by the Holley Police
  • NYS Penal Law Arrests: 1 Criminal Possession of Controlled Substance 2x counts (Albion PD)
  • NYS Vehicle & Traffic Law Arrests: 3 – 1 Felony (AUO 1st) 2 Misdemeanors (AUO 3rd & Suspended Reg)-Albion PD
  • Agency Breakdown: Albion PD, 26 stops; Orleans County Sheriff’s Office, 7 stops; State Police, 6 stops; Medina PD, 16 stops; and Holley Police, 14 stops.

The Albion Police Department and the other law enforcement agencies are committed to making the roadways safe for all those who travel upon them.

Compared to previous years, this year’s detail had a comparable number of vehicle stops and vehicles traveling through the checkpoint as previous years, but the percentage of intoxicated or impaired drivers has decreased again from previous years.

The data from this year’s detail indicates that less than 5% of the motorists stopped were intoxicated and around 2% of all encounters were with intoxicated people, whereas in previous years we have seen data as high as 20% of the motorists stopped were intoxicated.

This is positive news in our efforts to reduce accidents caused by intoxicated drivers. The reduction of DWI arrests is a positive and motivating factor when these types of details are conducted.

Many believe that law enforcement want to make more DWI arrests during these details, however we like to see the opposite. Law enforcement had interactions with numerous individuals and found that an overwhelming majority were responsible and not under the influence of alcohol. We also encountered several intoxicated passengers with sober designated drivers.

Intoxicated drivers do not follow jurisdictional lines, so we decided that we would not either. The Albion Police Department and its partners are planning similar details for the future. We will continue to use every resource and tool available to create a reduction in offenders and arrest those who continue to endanger others by driving while intoxicated.

The commitment and dedication by the officers, deputies and troopers who worked the detail undoubtedly saved lives in Orleans County by making arrests and sending a clear message to deter others from drinking and driving.

Open House at Job Corps invites students, community to see programs available

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 2 December 2025 at 11:10 am

Provided photo: This photo shows Iroquois Job Corps students at their graduation in August.

SHELBY – The Iroquoius Job Corps has a message for the community: The center remains open and welcomes more students.

There may be confusion about the status of the center after the federal Department of Labor suspended the programs in May, with most of the students at 99 centers sent home. However, a federal judge in June ruled Job Corps Centers nationwide must remain open.

The local Job Corps at 11780 Tibbits Rd. is stepping up outreach to welcome students. The free residential program is open to students ages 16 to 24 years old.

The open house is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is a chance to meet teachers and counselors.

“See the campus, meet some students, get energized about changing the direction of your future,” the Job Corps said in promoting the event.

The center can help students earn their high school diploma, and earn certificates in carpentry, brick masonry, electrical, CNA (certified nursing assistant) or CMA (certified medical assistant).

Those going are asked to RSVP at 585-344-6714.

Maison Albion appoints venue manager for site that hosts weddings, events

Posted 2 December 2025 at 10:25 am

Press Release, Maison Albion

Sarah Omicioli

ALBION – Maison Albion is pleased to announce the appointment of Sarah Omicioli as its new Venue Manager. Omicioli joins the team with an impressive 10-year track record in event planning, most recently with Good Neighbor Events in Buffalo, where she honed her expertise in creating memorable experiences and managing complex event logistics.

In her new role, Omicioli will oversee all venue operations at Maison Albion, working closely with clients to bring their visions to life while ensuring seamless execution of events. Her extensive background in event planning positions her uniquely to understand both the creative and operational demands of hosting exceptional gatherings.

“We are thrilled to welcome Sarah to the Maison Albion family,” said Kerri Glover, owner of the site at 13800 W County House Rd. “Her wealth of experience and proven ability to deliver outstanding events make her the perfect fit for this role. We’re confident that her leadership will elevate the experience for every client who chooses Maison Albion for their special occasions.”

Throughout her tenure at Good Neighbor Events, Omicioli developed a reputation for meticulous attention to detail, creative problem-solving, and a client-first approach that consistently exceeded expectations. Her experience spans a diverse range of events, from intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations.

“I’m excited to join Maison Albion and contribute to its legacy of hosting extraordinary events,” said Omicioli. “This venue offers such incredible possibilities, and I look forward to working with clients to create unforgettable moments.”

For more information about Maison Albion or to schedule a venue tour, please visit www.maisonalbion.com or contact bonjour@maisonalbion.com.

Roy-Hart/Barker wrestlers will host the second annual Dick Lang Duals on Saturday

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 2 December 2025 at 9:58 am

Photo by Cheryl Wertman – Leading the Roy-Hart/Barker wrestling squad into Saturday’s season opening Dick Lang Duals will be this group of veterans. In front are Remington Marohn and Rowan Murray. In back are Luke Fay, RJ Townsend and Lincoln Murray.

Contributed Photo – Dick Lang

It will be a special season opener for the Roy-Hart/Barker wrestling team which will host the second annual Dick Lang Duals Tournament on Saturday.

The tournament honors the memory of Dick Lang who coached the Rams for 10 years (1978-88) compiling a 96-17-2 record including five Niagara-Orleans League championships.

Lang, who was inducted into both the WNY Wrestling Coaches Hall of Fame and the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, coached five Roy-Hart wrestlers to state championships including U.S. Olympian Lou Rosselli.

The tournament field will include Canisius, Lake Shore, Holley-Kendall, Williamsville North, Williamsville East, Williamsville South, Lafayette, Tonawanda and CSAT. The all day admission will be $5. The tourney is scheduled to begin at 8 a.m.

Roy-Hart/Barker will also face a challenging Niagara-Orleans League opener hosting defending champion Newfane on December 10.

Leading the team this season will be veterans Remington Marohn, Rowan Murray, Luke Fay, RJ Townsend and Lincoln Murray.

“We’ve got good numbers but we’re still young.” said Coach Matt McCauley.

Holley-Kendall has youthful wrestling squad

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 2 December 2025 at 9:32 am

Photo by Cheryl Wertman – The Holley-Kendall wrestling squad’s veteran group includes, in front, Carson Cady, Isaac Bartlett and Jayden Rivera. In back are Parker Denning, Immanuel Cornell and Brenden Eichas.

The accent is on youth for the underclassmen dominated Holley-Kendall wrestling squad which will open the season with tournaments at Roy-Hart on December 6 and at Lyndonville on Dec. 13.

Leading the squad will be the veteran group of juniors Brenden Eichas, Immanuel Cornell and Parker Denning, sophomore Isaac Bartlett, freshman Carson Cady and eighth grader Jayden Rivera.

“We have a young team and high numbers,” said Coach Jim Mapes. “We are poised to have a good season and make a push for the Genesee Region League title.”

The team’s graduation losses included William Kruger who went 37-10 and Hunter Jewell-Smith who was 31-10.

The G-R opener will be December 17 at home against defending champion Byron-Bergen/Elba.

Salon De Coiffeur raises $2,305 for Hospice of Orleans

Posted 2 December 2025 at 9:20 am

Photos courtesy of Hospice of Orleans: (Left) This photo shows from left stylist Leslie Saj, Salon De Coiffeur owner and stylist Terah Jackson and stylist Jianna Saulsbury. (Right) Some of the items up for raffle included an autographed photo by Ray Davis of the Buffalo Bills.

Press Release, Hospice of Orleans County

MEDINA – Hospice of Orleans County is pleased to announce a generous contribution resulting from the dedication of a local business owner and the enthusiastic support of the community.

Terah Jackson, owner and stylist at Salon De Coiffeur, has successfully concluded her salon’s Annual Christmas Raffle, raising $2,305 for Hospice of Orleans County.

For the past two months, Ms. Jackson diligently sought donations and promoted the raffle, inspiring an outpouring of support from community members and local businesses. This massive effort resulted in over 55 generously donated baskets and raffle items.

“We are incredibly grateful for Ms. Jackson’s hard work and the overwhelming generosity of the entire community,” said Brittany Dix, Community Outreach Specialist. “When community members take it upon themselves to initiate such a substantial fundraising effort, it directly helps provide vital resources that allow us to continue offering compassionate care and support to our patients and their families in Orleans County. This sort of community dedication is especially meaningful.”

The raffle, which drew winners on Nov. 18, featured a diverse array of items, including handmade cutting boards, hair supplies, chocolates, wine, gift cards, and a highly-coveted Buffalo Bills autograph.

Hospice of Orleans County extends its deepest thanks to Terah Jackson, Salon De Coiffeur stylists Leslie Saj & Jianna Saulsbury, and everyone who contributed to the success of this meaningful event.

Ridgeway home badly damaged by fire with resident taken by ambulance

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 2 December 2025 at 8:41 am

Photos courtesy of Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Company: Firefighters work on putting out a fire in a house on Niagara-Orleans Countyline Road on Monday evening.

RIDGEWAY – One resident was taken by ambulance from a house fire on Niagara-Orleans Countyline Road on Monday evening. The Red Cross was requested to assist that person with emergency housing.

Firefighters were dispatched to the scene at 7:43 p.m. Firefighters worked for hours to find hidden fire and stop it, the Ridgeway Fire Company stated on its Facebook page. The fire was declared under control at 10:04 p.m. with extensive overhaul operations. Firefighters cleared the scene just after midnight.

Ridgeway was assisted at the scene by Medina Fire Department, Lyndonville Joint Fire District, Shelby Fire Company, Albion Joint Fire District, Tri-Town Ambulance and a fill-in crew from Hartland Fire Company.

This was also the first call of Ridgeway’s new fire truck, Engine 12.

Medina Senior Center packed for Christmas dinner, music by A’Capella Select Choir

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 1 December 2025 at 10:03 pm

Photos by Ginny Kropf: Kelly Shaw, left, director of the Senior Center in Medina, received a Christmas gift from Carol Bellack on behalf of the senior members during the annual Christmas dinner on Monday. At rear is Lynn Creasey, president of the board.

Medina senior Natalie Herbert sings a solo “Noel,” during the A’Capella Select Choir’s visit to Medina Senior Center.

MEDINA – The Medina Senior Center was packed to capacity today for their annual Christmas dinner and entertainment by Medina High School’s A’Capella Select Choir.

The event began with the Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer by Senior Center board president Lynn Creasey, followed by presentation of a Christmas gift to director Kelly Shaw by Carol Bellack on behalf of the seniors. Bellack shared the seniors’ appreciation of Shaw for all she does for the Senior Center.

Next was an announcement by Mike Randall, retired feature reporter for WKBW Channel 7, about a benefit he is doing Dec. 19 at the Medina Theater. Theater owner Joe Cardone is donating the theater for Randall’s performance of “Charles Dickens” to benefit the food pantries in Medina. Tickets are $10 and can be ordered through the Medina Theater’s website.

Everyone who brings a non-perishable food item will be entered in a drawing for various prizes. The doors will open at 7 and the A’Capella Choir will sing prior to Randall’s performance.

Entertaining at the Senior Center each Christmas is one of the A’Capella Choir’s favorite things to do, said director Rachel Trillizio.

“They love coming here,” she said.

The choir of 15 select members opened their program by singing “O Come All Ye Faithful,” followed by “Silent Night.” Next was “Cuckoo’s Christmas Gift” and senior Natalie Herbert singing “Noel.” The program concluded with the audience being invited to join the choir in singing “Joy to the World.”

Trillizio reminded the audience of the choir’s annual Christmas concert Dec. 14 at St. Mary’s Church with the Oak Orchard School Glee Club, directed by Andrea Busch. Doors will open at 7 p.m.

Any senior citizen in the area is invited to join the Senior Center of Western Orleans. Dues are only $10 per year and are being accepted for 2026. Benefits of becoming a member include access to day-old food from Tops bakery daily, exercise classes on Wednesday mornings, crafts and euchre on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday afternoons. Other events throughout the year include monthly luncheons and entertainment with drawings for prizes.

Rachel Trillizio, director of Medina High School’s A’Capella Choir, greets guests and introduces the choir at the annual Medina Senior Center Christmas dinner. The choir has been entertaining there for decades.