Provided photo: These students were recognized on Wednesday for committing to paid co-ops. From left include Joshua Zayac (Albion), Tyler Rothwell (Royalton-Hartland), Elliot Beyrle (Albion), Miles Arbegast (Medina), Deven Byrne (Medina), Carson Schwab (Barker) and Aaden Munn (Barker).
Press Release, Orleans/Niagara BOCES
MEDINA – There was a celebration on Wednesday evening at the Orleans/Niagara BOCES’ Orleans Career and Technical Education Center.
The Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering students in teacher Bill Rakonczay’s program had their annual Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program signing event. The Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program bridges the gap between youth and manufacturing careers through apprenticeships, job shadows and paid co-ops. Students gain skills and experience while connecting to future career opportunities.
“Students get recognized for signing on to play college sports, correct? Why not recognize students signing on to the workforce?” Mr. Rakonczay said.
The students were recognized for officially signing on to their paid co-op program. Each student received a swag bag from the Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship that included a caliper and micrometer set.
“Thank you to all the parents that showed up to support their loved one,” said Mr. Rakonczay. “A huge thank you to our local employers that support my program and students. Without them none of this would be possible. I am so proud of these students!”
Group came to aid of French special operations forces in northern Iraq
U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Jean Sanon: U.S. soldiers assigned to Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, 126th General Support Aviation Battalion, stand in formation during an award ceremony in Rochester on Sunday. Six New York Army National Guard Soldiers who came to the aid of French special operations forces during an Aug. 28–29, 2023, mission in northern Iraq were awarded the French National Defense Gold Medal with Bronze Star by Maj. Gen. Michel Natali, the assistant adjutant general for Army. Pictured from left include Chief Warrant Officer 4 Christopher Scott of Rochester, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Aaron Taylor of Blasdell, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jared Twigg of Rochester, Staff Sgt. Samuel Sacco of Lockport, and Sgt. Jedediah Estrada of Horseheads. Missing from photo is Sgt. Zachary Albright of Elba, who is an Albion graduate.
Press Release, New York National Guard
ROCHESTER – Six New York Army National Guard Soldiers who helped rescue 34 French special forces during an August 2023 firefight in Iraq, received the French equivalent of the Bronze Star, during ceremony on Sunday at Army Aviation Support Facility 2 in Rochester.
The soldiers, assigned to Bravo Company of the 3rd Battalion, 126th General Support Aviation Battalion, were presented with the French National Defense Gold Medal with Bronze Star.
Sgt. Zachary Albright
The aviation soldiers were honored for providing rapid aerial support to French special operations forces who pinned down under enemy fire near Hawija, Iraq, on the night of Aug. 28 and 29, 2023. The French unit was conducting a mission against ISIS terrorists.
Major General Michel Natali, the New York National Guard’s assistant adjutant general, Army, who presented the French medals, praised the Soldiers for their quick response in loading up and moving a French quick reaction force of 30 troops into the fight.
“We’re very proud of what they’ve done as aviators, but I’d say more importantly, I’m very proud of them being New York National Guard Soldiers,” Natali said after the ceremony.
“The operation they were involved in happened in the dark of night,” he told reporters.
“The French government did not have to recognize our soldiers, but they went that extra mile to identify our soldiers who were working that evening to keep their soldiers safe. We’re very appreciative of what the French government has done in recognizing our troops,” Natali said.
The medals were authorized by French General Thierry Burkhard, then France’s Chief of National Defense Staff, in March of 2024.
At the time of the mission, the New York Army National Guard aviation crews were on standby at Erbil Air Base as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the multinational effort to counter Islamic State terrorist operations in the region.
When the approximately 35 French Special Forces troops took casualties and requested reinforcement and extraction, two CH-47F Chinook helicopters crewed by the Rochester-based Bravo Company launched in support.
Within 30 minutes, the aircrews loaded approximately 30 French commandos to relieve them and flew nearly 70 miles to the objective area then stayed nearby, ready to provide follow-on support.
Chief Warrant Officer 4 Christopher Scott, a Rochester resident, who served as air mission commander during the operation, said uncertainty upon arrival created immediate challenges.
“The biggest challenge was not knowing the situation on the ground or what support we had until we got on station,” said Scott, who joined the New York Army National Guard in 2002.
He added that once they made radio contact and confirmed their location, they adjusted the grid, coordinated with the other aircraft and their crews, and identified the support available to them.
Scott said that the crew’s preparation and cohesion were critical to executing the mission successfully.
“I’m most proud of the way the crew came together,” he said. “They had the aircraft ready to go. While I was receiving the mission, the crew was already preparing the aircraft.”
Once Scott briefed them, they conducted a short planning session on the way and were ready to execute.
Sgt. Jedediah Estrada, a Horseheads resident who served as a door gunner during the mission, said the recognition carries lasting personal meaning.
“Afterward, I read the French press release about the death of Sgt. Nicolas Mazier, [the] paratrooper with the French commandos who was killed in combat,” Estrada said. “I’ve remembered him ever since.”
“Being honored by the French government is a way for me to continue honoring his legacy – not just what our unit was able to do, but what we accomplished together with our partner force,” Estrada said.
“It really brings together why we were there and what we were working to defeat,” he added.
Recognized during the ceremony were:
Chief Warrant Officer 4 Christopher Scott, a Rochester resident, is a 42-year-old CH-47F helicopter pilot who joined the New York Army National Guard in 2002. He was commissioned as an Aviation Warrant Officer in 2009. He is a recipient of the Air Medal W/C Device, Air Medal and Army Commendation Medal.
Retired Chief Warrant Officer 3 Aaron Taylor, a Blasdell resident, is a 35-year-old CH-47F helicopter pilot who joined the New York Army National Guard in 2009. He was commissioned as an Aviation Warrant Officer in 2015. He is a recipient of the Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal and Army Achievement Medal W/C Device.
Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jared Twigg, a Rochester resident, is a 38-year-old CH-47F helicopter pilot who joined the New York Army National Guard in 2007. He was previously a flight engineer with the unit until he commissions as a pilot in 2019. He is a recipient of the Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal and Army Achievement Medal
Staff Sgt. Samuel Sacco, a Lockport resident, is a 40-year- old helicopter maintainer and crew chief who joined the New York Army National Guard in 2004 and served until 2012. He reenlisted in 2019, again as an aircraft mechanic. He is a recipient of the Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal and Army Achievement Medal W/C Device.
Sgt. Jedediah Estrada, a Horseheads resident, is 36-years-old. He enlisted as a 92F Petroleum Supply Specialist and went through flight progression as a door gunner with the unit. He entered the New York Army National Guard in 2019. He is a recipient of the Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal and Army Achievement Medal.
Sgt. Zachary Albright, an Elba resident, is a 22-year-old helicopter maintainer and crew chief who joined the New York Army National Guard in 2022. He has since been warranted commission as a WO1 in 2025 and is currently in flight school to become an Aviation Warrant Officer. He is a recipient of the Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal W/C Device and Army Achievement Medal.
The French National Defense Medal, known as the Medaille de la Defense nationale, was established April 21, 1982, by then French Minister of Defense Charles Hernu to recognize honorable and meritorious service in support of France’s national defense.
The medal is awarded in three grades, bronze, silver and gold, reflecting increasing levels of distinguished service. The gold grade recognizes particularly distinguished contributions to national defense.
When accompanied by a bronze star device, the medal signifies the recipient was officially recognized at the regimental or brigade level for notable operational service during multinational missions.
The decoration may be awarded to both French service members and allied military personnel and serves as a symbol of professional excellence and international military cooperation.
Detachment 1 of Bravo Company operates seven CH-47F Chinook heavy-lift helicopters from Army Aviation Support Facility No. 2 at the Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport.
The unit falls under the 42nd Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade’s 642nd Aviation Support Battalion and has conducted numerous deployments overseas and disaster response operations here at home.
SUNY Oswego and SUNY Cortland have recognized Orleans County residents as high academic achievers on its President’s List and Deans’ List for the fall 2025 semester.
At Oswego, President’s List students are those attaining semester grade-point averages of 3.8 or higher while carrying required academic credits. Students on the President’s List include:
Jordan Wright, Albion, criminal justice
Isabella R. Zasa, Knowlesville, public relations (online)
Deans’ List students are those attaining semester grade-point averages between 3.3 and 3.79 while carrying required academic credits. Students on the Deans’ List include:
Jack Cecchini, Medina, adolescence education
Willow E. Gaines, Albion, health promotion and wellness
Tracy Garrett, Eagle Harbor, studio art
Kenadie J. Patten, Albion, finance
Alex E. Stahl, Medina, operations management and information systems
Charlotte R. Symons, Albion, creative writing
At SUNY Cortland, students from Orleans County on the Dean’s List include:
Cole Callard of Medina, with a major in Sport Management
Nathan Sherman of Medina, with a major in Business Economics (also named to President’s List)
BUFFALO – The following local students were named to the University at Buffalo’s fall 2025 dean’s list.
Daniel Barry of Lyndonville
Adriana Botello of Kendall
Sawyer Brigham of Albion
Caiden Class of Medina
Dan De Vera of Medina
Autumn Flugel of Albion
Kevin He of Albion
Gwen Ingro of Lyndonville
Emma Jacobs of Medina
Jordan Marshall of Albion
Brookelyn Nawotka of Medina
Anna Oakley of Medina
Jaxon Phillips of Medina
Cole Quiter of Holley
S’koi Sanders of Albion
Hilda Santiago Bautista of Medina
Carson Uderitz of Albion
UB is New York State’s flagship university and the largest and most comprehensive institution in the State University of New York system.
To qualify for the dean’s list, full-time undergraduate students must demonstrate academic excellence by earning a grade point average of at least 3.600 while completing a minimum of 12 or more UB letter graded (A-F) credit hours.
“Each term, we are inspired by the determination and drive of our students,” says Ann Bisantz, vice provost and dean of undergraduate education. “Those named to this semester’s undergraduate dean’s list have distinguished themselves through their commitment to academic excellence, intellectual curiosity and personal integrity. Their success reflects not only hard work, but also a steadfast dedication to their goals. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and look forward to the impact they will continue to make at UB and beyond.”
LOCKPORT – Ben McPherson, an Edward Jones financial advisor in Lockport, has accepted an invitation to become a limited partner in The Jones Financial Companies, L.L.L.P., the holding company for the St. Louis-based financial services firm.
“I am honored to be invited to become a limited partner in the firm,” McPherson said. “I value working at a firm with such a strong sense of purpose – to make a positive difference for our clients, colleagues and community.”
McPherson joined Edward Jones in 2019 and has served investors in Western NY for the past seven years. He is active in the community and currently volunteers with the Medina Rotary, Medina Area Partnership and the Orleans/GLOW YMCAs.
Edward Jones currently employs 50,000 associates throughout the United States and through its affiliate in Canada. This is the firm’s 18th limited partnership offering in its 100-year history.
Edward Jones is a leading North American financial planning firm in the U.S. and through its affiliate in Canada. The firm’s more than 20,000 financial advisors throughout North America serve more than 9 million clients with a total of $2.4 trillion in client assets under care as of Sept. 26, 2025.
ROCHESTER – Several students from Orleans County have been named to the Dean’s List at Nazareth University for the fall semester. Those students include:
Tyana Burroughs of Kendall
Hailey Crawford of Albion
Riley Tompkins of Medina
Raine Baker of Lyndonville
Kailie Regan of Holley
Faith Bennett of Albion
Olivia Belgiorno of Waterport
Ryder Jones of Medina
Makenzie McGrath of Medina
A student’s grade point average must be at least 3.5 or above, and they must complete 12 credit hours of graded work that semester in order to be included on the Dean’s List at Nazareth.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 11 January 2026 at 11:04 am
Finger Lakes Community College, Jacksonville State University, SUNY Canton and Southern New Hampshire University note academic achievers from Orleans
Four colleges have recently notified the Orleans Hub of students from Orleans County who made either the Dean’s List or President’s List for the fall semester.
• At Finger Lakes Community College in Canandaigua, there are 973 students on the Dean’s List, maintaining at least a 3.5 grade point average for the semester.
Those students include Rachael Howard of Albion, Bryan Hardenbrook of Kendall, and Addison Paul and Julian Woodworth of Medina.
• Seagan Christine Majchrzak of Medina has been named to Dean’s List at Jacksonville State University in Alabama.
To be named to the Dean’s List, students must earn a 3.5-3.99 GPA for the semester while completing at least 12 GPA hours of course credit.
• Two students from Orleans County were named to the President’s List at SUNY Canton with GPAs of 3.75 or higher.
Lakshia Johnson of Albion and Lorelei Sanders are both Legal Studies majors.
• Two from Orleans also were named to the President’s List at Southern New Hampshire University in Manchester, NH.
Andrea Sanchez Vargas of Holley and Nordia Campbell of Albion both had GPAs of 3.70 or higher.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 6 January 2026 at 3:40 pm
Photos by Ginny Kropf: A.J. Gere, creative director for Orleans Hub and Lake Country Media, garnered the most votes in an annual program called Rochester Community Votes. Here, she shows examples of some of her work.
ALBION – A.J. Gere, creative director and graphic designer for Orleans Hub and Lake Country Media, has emerged a winner of Rochester Community Votes, an annual program in which the public can vote for their favorite individual, business or service in a variety of categories.
Gere learned about the contest and entered Specialty Art Services and Graphic Design.
She won gold in Specialty Services for her pyrography (woodburning), and silver for her Graphic Design. The skull took her 35 hours to complete, she said.
To be considered for the program the entrant must first be nominated by the public. Then the top nominations move to the voting stage, where the public can vote daily for their favorites. Winners are revealed at an awards gala, which this year took place Dec. 10 at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center.
“The fact someone anonymous nominated me made it so special,” Gere said. “I had tears in my eyes when I learned I had won.”
The pieces in woodburning held here by A.J. Gere are some of her favorites, the cabin being an homage to her childhood camping and the skull at right the piece which won her a gold award in Rochester Community Votes.
Gere first started doing woodburning several years ago. One of her first pieces was of the home her grandmother used to live in. She gave one to her parents, and her hobby just took off from there, she said.
Her main subjects deal with nature.
“I grew up camping and surrounded by nature,” Gere said. “To be able to combine my hobby with nature was appealing to me.”
She likes to do her woodburning on recycled wood and has found a gentleman who used to own a saw mill and provides her with wood when she needs it. News of her talent is spreading, and she recently finished a commissioned piece for someone in Kansas.
Her woodburning is accomplished under the name of Fern and Timber. She recently entered a craft fair at the Rochester Museum of Science Center and did very well, she said.
At work, Gere is the creative director, or graphic designer, for Orleans Hub, having started working there in 2019. She manages Hub uploads and orders and is a liaison between her office and vendors. She also works at the front desk, answering phones and greeting customers when no one else is available.
“Whatever position needs to be filled or whatever customers want, I find a way to get it done,” she said.
Photo by Tom Rivers: A.J. Gere is shown during an Aug. 15 reception at the Marti’s on Main art gallery in Albion, where she was one of the featured artists. She is shown next to her creations showing a barn owl on top, then “Mirrored Mushrooms,” and a riverside cabin.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 11 December 2025 at 11:45 am
Provided photo: Nyla Gaylord, director of United Way of Orleans County, holds the Pillars of Homeless Service Award she received at the WNY Homeless Alliance 20th anniversary celebration on Dec. 5.
Nyla Gaylord, executive director of United Way of Orleans County, was recently recognized by the WNY Homeless Alliance with their Pillars of Homeless Service Award.
The award was presented Dec. 5 at Samuel’s Grande Manor in Williamsville, where more than 350 community members met for the WNY Homeless Alliance’s 20th anniversary celebration. The event recognized two decades of regional progress toward ending homelessness, and honored leaders whose long-standing dedication has strengthened the Western New York homeless response system.
A focal moment of the afternoon was the presentation of the award, which celebrated 21 individuals who have each contributed more than 20 years to supporting people experiencing homelessness. These honorees, whose combined careers represent centuries of advocacy and human compassion, were recognized for their steadfast service, innovation and leadership across the region.
Gaylord has a four-decade career in human services, which has been shaped by a commitment to walking alongside people whose struggles often go unseen.
Her work began in 1980 with Rural New York Farmworker Opportunities (now PathStone), where she provided assistance to migrant farmworkers and learned firsthand that advocacy, trust and dignity are essential to helping individuals move forward.
Over the years, she created programs and services to assist older adults, displaced homemakers, people with disabilities, refugees and individuals facing addiction, unemployment and mental health challenges. No matter the role, she witnessed a fundamental truth – without stable housing, people cannot begin to address unemployment, health or recovery.
In Orleans County Gaylord has led efforts to address the shortage of housing and rising homelessness. Following the 2022 closure of the Holley Hotel, she convened community partners for a countywide “Community Conversation on Housing,” which led to the opening of the county’s first warming center in 2023. Under her leadership, United Way continues to bring together government, nonprofit, business and grassroots partners to expand affordable housing options and respond to the growing number of residents without shelter.
The December celebration also featured a video chronicling the Homeless Alliance’s history, remarks from executive director Kexin Ma, and reflections from honorees Joy Tedeschi and Robyn Kreuger on the shared commitment that has shaped progress throughout Western New York, In a moment of national acknowledgment, Congressman Tim Kennedy’s office presented an Extension of Remarks to the Homeless Alliance – an honor that will join the official Congressional Record in Washington, D.C.
United Way of Orleans County extends appreciation to the Homeless Alliance and to all regional partners working to ensure every person has access to safe, stable housing. As the need grows, so does the organization’s commitment to collaboration, compassion and community-driven solutions.
Photo by Tom Rivers: Nyla Gaylord speaks in May during a housing forum that she helped lead for officials in Orleans County. That forum was held at the White Birch Golf Course in Lyndonville.
Provided photo: Kevin Bittner accepts the James Quinn Award during the annual meeting of New York Farm Bureau.
VERONA – A Niagara County fruit grower who has served several years in leadership roles with Farm Bureau has been recognized by the organization.
Kevin Bittner on Wednesday was presented with the James Quinn Award during NY Farm Bureau’s annual meeting at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona. This is the second highest award in the organization and goes to someone who has gone above and beyond in supporting Farm Bureau and NY Agriculture during the past year.
Bittner is the orchard manager for Bittner Singer Farms based in Appleton. His father Jim is managing partner and brother David is field manager for the farm.
Kevin Bittner just completed his term as Niagara County President. In addition to helping plan the March Ag Forum, he served as emcee. As Farm Bureau president, he served on a number of other county committees. Bittner was a resource person for local farmers and members of the media. He also promoted agriculture through presentations to various organizations including Lions Clubs.
On a state level, Bittner serve on the Resolutions Committee for Farm Bureau. As a grassroots organization, their priorities are set by the members. The Resolutions Committee coordinates each county’s items into a coordinated format. He also serves on the advisory board for the Cornell University Geneva Experimental Station.
When accepting the award, Kevin expressed appreciation for those who helped him throughout the year. As part of Bittner Singer Orchards, he appreciated his father and brother for keeping the farm functioning when he was gone. Bittner appreciated the Niagara County Farm Bureau Board for their help with the numerous projects throughout the year. Finally, he acknowledged the input and friendship from members across the state.
New York Farm Bureau provides the resources that support and enrich the rural way of life. Through the efforts of our organization, farmers have learned to work together to promote more efficient production, better marketing, fair legislation, and a safe food supply and work environment. Membership is open to all involved in agriculture, whether in production or consumption.
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.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 25 November 2025 at 9:22 am
Photos by Tom Rivers: Heather Smith, the CEO and a partner at Velocitii, accepts thanks the Orleans County Chamber of Commerce for naming the company in Medina as its “Business of the Year” for 2025. She is joined on stage by Velocitii leaders, Jeff Brandt, chief information officer, and Brian O’Neill, vice president of sales. The awards celebration was held Oct. 23 at the White Birch Golf Course.
LYNDONVILLE – The Orleans County Chamber of Commerce presented nine awards to businesses and committed citizens during the Chamber’s 27th annual awards banquet last month.
Darlene Hartway, the Chamber’s executive director, told 125 people at the banquet that the county has a strong backbone of business owners.
“Our local business owners invest their time, talents and money not only into their own businesses, but into the entire community,” Hartway said at the Oct. 23 banquet. “They donate, volunteer, serve on community boards and actively participate in the community.”
The award winners were nominated by other businesses and residents in the county.
“Local business owners are tenacious,” Hartway said. “They fight through times of loss and hardships. They sacrifice family time, financial rewards, wear and tear on mind and body, simply to serve their neighbor communities. I am in constant awe of people who make the commitment to invest in themselves, their businesses, and their community.”
Business of the Year: Velocitii
Velocitii opened 11 years ago and operates out of the Olde Pickle Factory on Park Avenue in Medina.
Velocitii is a business process outsourcing company. It provides support for other businesses, handling calls for customers about plans, billing and troubleshooting. Velocitii works with companies in healthcare, waste management, hospitality, e-commerce, auto insurance and technology.
Velocitii was founded by Roger Hungerford in the Olde Pickle Factory, initially with six employees. Velocitii each of the past three years has been named a top workplace in the Rochester region, placing in the mid-size company category (125 to 300 employees).
The company is now owned by Heather Smith (CEO), Brian O’Neill and Jeff Brandt. It has grown from 55 employees to 180 in the past three years.
Most of the employees work from home and Smith said Velocitii values work-life flexibility for the employees, while maintaining customer service for its clients.
The company provides paid time off to volunteer in the community, and strives to reward employees with other recognitions throughout the year.
“I want to thank the management team and the employees,” Smith said. “We look forward to many more years in the Orleans County community.”
Lifetime Achievement Award: Rita Zambito
Rita Zambito accepts the award for “lifetime achievement.” She has led a very successful real estate business in Orleans County and the region.
Rita Zambito in less than 20 years has turned a startup real estate business into a powerhouse in the region with 80 real estate agents that handled 600 transactions, topping $100 million in 2024.
“She has reached sales volumes thought unattainable in her market,” Hartway said.
Zambito started selling real estate in 1995. In 2006, she launched Zambito Realtors with her son, Mark. In 2021, she bought into the nationwide Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices.
She also has assisted her other son Michael with the very popular Zambistro restaurant in Medina, handling the back office operations.
Her daughter, Mandy Gotham, works out of the Berkshire Hathaway office in Orchard Park.
Zambito said she took chances on the business as a single mother. Her children have all been great to work with.
Hartway praised Zambito for being a great role model for women in business locally.
“This award is so deserving,” Hartway said. “You have been a beacon in our community.”
Business Person of the Year: Dan DeCarlo
Dan DeCarlo accepts the “Business Person of the Year” during the Chamber banquet. DeCarlo has been involved in the family business of selling auto parts in Albion ever since his father purchased Arnold’s Auto Parts in 1968. Dan was 8 years old back then.
After taking over the business when his father retired 10 years ago, DeCarlo has been a big supporter of the Royal Body Shop Outreach Ministry which has a community refrigerator stocked with food outside Arnold’s, 116 North Liberty St. The outreach ministry has many other events throughout the year, including a massive Easter egg hunt, Trunk of Treat at Beggar’s Nite and free chicken barbecue dinners.
DeCarlo also has organized many car shows and cruise-ins over the years.
His business ethics and support of community have earned him the Business Person of the Year. DeCarlo said he is a low-key guy who doesn’t like to be in the spotlight.
“I want to thank my employees, customers and friends who come in every day to support us,” he said. “I’ve spent almost my whole life at the store and in the downtown community. It’s been quite a ride.”
New Business of the Year: Homestead Pest Control
Jacob Ivison, owner of Homestead Pest Control, accepts the award for “New Business of the Year.”
The business is based at 109 East Bank St. in Albion. Hartway, the Chamber director, said the Chamber appreciates Ivison investing in a brick-and-mortar site in downtown Albion as well as offering the pest control services to the community.
Ivison was working as a delivery driver for an agricultural chemical facility. He met the owner of a pest control business sin Middleport, and that person directed him to a new career.
Ivison works with residents and business owners to rid the sites of bugs and rodents.
“Orleans County has been very good to me,” he said.
Hidden Gem: Hurd Orchards
Amy Machamer, co-owner of Hurd Orchards on Route 104 in Holley, accepts the “Hidden Gem” award which goes to a business that brings in tourists and visitors to the county.
Machamer is the seventh generation in her family to be part of the farm. Her daughter, Amelia Sidonio, is the eighth generation.
Amy has teamed with her mother, Susan Hurd Machamer, to run the farm the past 40 years. Hurd Orchards, located at 17260 Ridge Rd., is an EcoCertified farm that uses sustainable and environmentally responsible growing practices.
“Our hope is to be ambassadors to the fruit culture,” Machamer said about the Chamber event. “Our message is to bring simple goodness to the broad world around us.”
While the farm has adapted to changes, Hurd Orchards stays authentic, Machamer said. Hurd Orchards welcomes many visitors for events, including luncheons with food prepared from an 1895 cookbook. The steamed quince pudding is a popular item. A pear luncheon features the Seckel pear which are grown at Hurd’s.
Hurd Orchards sells fruits commercially, and has a bakery and jam kitchen. They raise elegant flowers and make up gift baskets to order.
“It’s been almost two centuries of filling Western New York with beauty and flavor,” Machamer said about the farm. “We draw a lot of people from very far away. We’re proud of that, and we have dedicated ourselves to Orleans County.”
Agricultural Business of the Year: RLW Cattle
Chamber board member John Ivison presents the Agricultural Business of the Year award to RLW Cattle, which is owned by Patrick and Rachael Woodworth. They were unable to attend the award’s banquet. Their children – Lane, Nathan and Morgan – accepted the award on their behalf.
The family also owns Sandy Knoll Farms, a fruit and grain operation. The Woodworths have had beef animals for the kids to show in 4-H.
The family decided to raise registered beef. Patrick and Rachel moved the family into the Woodworth family homestead in 2013, and brought cattle back to the farm. They revived the pastures, and named the business RLW in honor of Patrick’s grandfather, Ralph Leo Woodworth.
In 2023, their first beef was USDA inspected and packaged for resale — and the community welcomed their locally raised beef with enthusiasm and pride. By spring 2024, they opened their storefront on Swett Road and have continued to grow with the support of local families who value quality, local agriculture and tradition.
Phoenix Award: Newell Lounge/Shirt Factory
Andrew Meier, right, and his partner Richie Sarrero accept the Phoenix Award for their efforts to restore and repurpose the Newell building at 113 West Center St.
Meier, an attorney in Medina, purchased the building in 2005. He has worked 20 years to upgrade the property, which was once home to the Newell Shirt Factory business.
The building now has three floors of different businesses. In 2006, the first business, the Shirt Factory Café, opened. It has since been restructured and is a restaurant and cocktail lounge known as the Shirt Factory.
Several businesses, including 810 Meadworks and a salon opened there, but moved out, creating new opportunities for Meier to try other ventures. The result was creating a coffee and snack shop called Factory Espresso, which opened in the spring of 2024, and a classic cocktail bar called the Newell Lounge which opened this spring.
Total remodeling of the second floor created space for Webster, Schubel and Meier to move their law offices there. The third floor renovation is home to the Hart Hotel, with 10 boutique rooms.
Meier and Sarrero plan to eventually have the Lounge open every day. They are expanding the kitchen and adding an outdoor event space in back of the building.
Community Service Award: Genesee-Orleans Ministry of Concern
Jami Allport, executive director of the Genesee-Orleans Ministry of Concern, said the agency is seeing an increased demand for assistance from the community. Reita Fletcher, the Chamber treasurer, is in background.
The Ministry of Concern has expanded its efforts in the community. Last year it started a food and personal care pantry at Albion Central School in the middle and high schools.
The organization known for years as “The Agency of Last Resort” also has increased outreach for the local homeless population.
GOMOC began in 1955 as the Migrant Ministry. The agency focused on meeting the basic needs of migrant families who were vital to the local economy, but often lacked access to stable housing, transportation and essential services.
Over time, the GOMOC mission was expanded to serve all individuals and families in crisis in Orleans and Genesee counties. Today, according to Allport, GOMOC operates a wide range of critical community programs which address immediate needs, while helping families work toward stability.
This includes a furniture program, Emergency Assistance Program, Homeless Outreach Program, Youth and Family Empowerment Program, the Mary Grace Room and Rental Assistance Program.
“We are small but we are mighty,” Allport said at the Chamber dinner.
Through these efforts, GOMOC continues to be a lifeline for residents who have nowhere else to turn, Allport said. The organization operates on the belief that every individual deserves respect, dignity and access to resources, regardless of their circumstances.
Allport said the recent federal government shutdown delayed SNAP food benefits and HEAP heating aid, putting more vulnerable people at risk.
Small Business of the Year: Bentley Brothers
Laura Bentley, owner of Bentley Brothers in Albion and Brockport, accepts the “Small Business of the Year” award. Bentley Brothers celebrated its 100th anniversary this year.
Laura is the fourth generation to own the business, which was started in 1925 in Barre by her great-grandfather, Allen Bentley.
“It’s a huge milestone,” Laura said about the century mark. “It’s a celebration of my family and the people who have worked for us over the years. They’ve put in a lot of blood, sweat and tears.”
Allen Bentley originally called the business, J. Allen Bentley, and operated out of the grange building. He sold some of the tractors and Cletrac machines that drained and cleared the Elba mucklands, equipment on tracks instead of tires that would have sunk into the muddy soil.
The business became Bentley Brothers when Allen’s sons, Gerald and Walter, came back from World War II and started working there in the mid-1940s.
Allen died in 1951 and his sons continued to run the business through the late 1970s and early 1980s. They were joined by Dave, his brother Doug and cousin Donna.
Bentley Brothers has been selling Kubota equipment since 1980. Bentley also carries the following brands: Land Pride, Ariens, Gravely, Scag, Stihl, Echo, Terrain King, Brillion, Kubota Generators, Bush Hog, Stinger and Wallenstein.
Laura joined her family at Bentley Brothers 20 years ago and also runs other local businesses in the community. She said she is grateful for the customers, employees and her family members who have put so much into Bentley Brothers the past century.
Today, Bentley Brothers has 22 employees at the two locations.
Laura urged younger adults to be more active in the community, by serving on local boards, volunteering, running for political office or running businesses.
“I encourage you all to think of how you can impact the community,” she said.
Two soldiers from Orleans County in the National Guard have recently received promotions.
Chandre Labuschagne from Medina and assigned to the NY Air National Guard Headquarters was promoted on Oct.1 to the rank of technical sergeant.
Air National Guard promotions are based on an airman’s overall performance, demonstrated leadership abilities, professionalism and future development potential.
Samantha Harvey from Holley and assigned to the Delta Company, 3rd Battalion, 126th Aviation Regiment, received a promotion on Oct. 21 to the rank of staff sergeant.
Army National Guard promotions are based on a soldier’s overall performance, demonstrated leadership abilities, professionalism and future development potential.
For more information about the New York Air National Guard or to contact a recruiter, visit https://dmna.ny.gov/ang/.
For more information about the New York Army National Guard, visit www.dmna.ny.gov.
Photos courtesy of Zach Busch: The Symphonic Band was conducted by Mr. Martin Allen, a retired high school band director of 32 years at Grand Island Schools. The students performed four works, including “Cincinnatus March” by H. A. Vandercook and “Mambo Perro Loco” by Julie Giroux.
Information courtesy of Zach Busch, Holley band director
WEBSTER – Last weekend 6 students from Orleans County participated in the NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association) Zone 2 Jr. High Area All-State festival at Webster Schroeder High School.
NYSSMA Zone 2 encompasses schools from Orleans, Genesee, Wyoming, Monroe, Livingston, Ontario, Seneca, and Wayne Counties. To be selected for Area All-State, students must first prepare a solo on their instrument or voice for adjudication at Solo Festival.
Then, based on their score and a teacher recommendation, an application is sent to a committee of music teachers from the NYSSMA Zone 2 area who select that year’s student participants in the Area All-State ensembles.
Students spent eight total hours last Friday and Saturday rehearsing their music before giving concerts to friends and family in the afternoon.
Three of the students from Orleans County include, from left, Rosa Scroope of Holley, Lillian Olsen of Medina and Adler Class of Medina.
From Lyndonville, 8th grader Harli Crawford made the Mixed Chorus as an Alto, 8th grader Emily Kroll made the Treble Chorus as an Alto, and 9th grader Karalyn Klotzbach made the Treble Chorus as a Soprano.
From Medina, 9th grader Adler Class made the Symphonic Band on Percussion and 8th grader Lillian Olsen made the Symphonic Band on Trumpet.
From Holley, 9th grader Rosa Scroope made the Symphonic Band on French Horn.
The Mixed Chorus was conducted by Mrs. Heather Vest, the Executive Director of the Cincinnati Youth Choir. The students performed five works, including “Come to the Music” by Joseph M. Martin and “Fly Away Home” by Pinkzebra.
The Treble Chorus was conducted by Dr. Brian Stevens, the founder of a professional chamber choir “Vox Lusciniae” out of Western NY and the Director of Choral Activities at St. Bonaventure University. The students performed five works, including “From Now On” from the Greatest Showman and “Omnia Sol” by Z. Randall Stroope.
Photos from Orleans/Niagara BOCES – This photo shows the group of students at the Orleans Career and Technical Education Center who were inducted into National Technical Honor Society.
Press Release, Orleans/Niagara BOCES
MEDINA – Congratulations to the students from the Orleans Career and Technical Education Center, who were recently inducted into the National Technical Honor Society.
Out of all the high school students in the United States, the National Technical Honor Society students who receive this honor comprise 1.6 percent of that population. For staff at the Orleans/BOCES centers, they represent the four pillars of the National Technical Honor Society: scholarship, leadership, service and character.
The students were honored in front of their teachers, families and school district representatives. The students had to maintain an 89.5 grade average in their career and technical education programs and an 84.5 average at their high schools, have superior attendance, exemplary behavior, be a member in good standing with SkillsUSA and have a recommendation from a faculty member.
This group from Medina was inducted into the National Technical Honor Society. Mollie Mark, assistant high school principal is at left, and Dr. Mark Kruzynski, district superintendent, is at right.
Congratulations go to:
Bella Andes (Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering/Lockport), Brianna Bacon (Cosmetology/Royalton-Hartland), Jenna Barnard (Early Childhood Education/Albion), Emiliana Batista (Allied Health/Medina), Theresa Bennett (Allied Health/Royalton-Hartland), Adriannah Berner (Allied Health/Royalton-Hartland), Elliot Beyrle (Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering/Albion), Icess Britton (Automotive Technology/Lockport), Kara Browning (Security and Law Enforcement/Lockport), Deven Byrne (Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering/Medina), Kyle Cassick (Cosmetology/Royalton-Hartland), Karlee Cau (Allied Health/Medina), Joseph Cirillo (Graphic Communications/Barker),
Andrew Coder (Diesel Technology/Heavy Equipment/Royalton-Hartland), A’Niya Cornwell (Health Occupations Technician/Lockport), Cheyanne Cunningham (Cosmetology/Lockport), Alicia Dabb (Security and Law Enforcement/Royalton-Hartland), Kacie Disinger (Security and Law Enforcement/Royalton-Hartland), Matthew Donahue (Security and Law Enforcement/Lockport), Noah Doxey (Building Trades/Royalton-Hartland), Vincent Gray (Allied Health/Medina), Austin Guido (Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering/Medina), Carina Hartigan (Culinary Arts/Royalton-Hartland), Briley Huwyler (Auto Collision & Repair/Barker), Avion Johnson (Auto Collision & Repair/Medina), Conner Kam (Security and Law Enforcement/Lockport), Aydan Kickbush (Computer Technology/Medina),
Alyssa Killock (Cosmetology/Lockport), Abigail Kincaid (Allied Health/Albion), Matthew Maines (Welding/Barker), Nathaniel Miller (Security and Law Enforcement/Royalton-Hartland), Emily Miner (Allied Health/Lyndonville), Markayla Ming (Cosmetology/Lockport), Madison Muckle (Allied Health/Albion), Lauren Nagel (Animal Science/Lockport), Reilly Notin (Computer Technology/Royalton-Hartland), Aurora Owczarczak (Allied Health/Medina), Paisley Pasnik (Allied Health/Medina), Alexandrea Patrick (Cosmetology/Lockport), William Plummer (Welding/Albion), Cherish Potter (Health Occupations Technician/Barker), Ethan Robinson (Diesel Technology/Heavy Equipment/Akron),
Gianna Rowles (Cosmetology/Newfane), Penelope Schalck (Allied Health/Medina), Carson Schwab (Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering/Barker), Allie Smith (Allied Health/Medina), Savannah Spoth (Cosmetology/Lyndonville), Violette Streckewald (Cosmetology/Royalton-Hartland), Hagen Van Leuven (Welding/Medina), Camden VandenBosch (Computer Technology/Royalton-Hartland), Hunter Walczak (Electricity/Electronics/Medina), Aurora Wass (Security and Law Enforcement/Barker), Alexander Wilson (Building Trades/Medina), Nathan Woodworth (Diesel Technology/Heavy Equipment/Lyndonville), Giovanni Wright (Security and Law Enforcement/Newfane), Joshua Zayac (Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering/Albion), Brooke Zglinicki (Cosmetology/Royalton-Hartland).
This photo shows the students from Albion inducted into the National Technical Honor Society. Principal Jennifer Ashbery is at left with Superintendent Mickey Edwards at right.
