A National Guard soldier from Medina has been promoted in the New York Army National Guard, Major General Ray Shields, the adjutant general for the state of New York, announced.
Ashley Lowery of Medina is assigned to Charlie Company, NY Recruiting and Retention Battalion. Lowery was promoted on July 31 to the rank of private.
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 Army National Guard, visit www.dmna.ny.gov.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 2 August 2026 at 8:38 am
Isabel Nesbitt, 13, wins competition featuring top 9 showmen at the fair
Photos by Tom Rivers
KNOWLESVILLE – Isabel Nesbitt, 13, of Lyndonville is congratulated by judge Kirby Palmer after winning the grand master showmen title for large animals on Saturday. It is one of the most prestigious awards at the Orleans County 4-H Fair.
Nesbitt may be the youngest grand master showman in the fair’s history. It is typically won by a seasoned 4-Her with years of experience showing many species of animals.
Natalie Miller, 12, of Lyndonville (in front) was the reserve grand master, with Isabel Nesbit the grand master (in back). They are showing pigs during the competition. The two were tied in points, and tied in the number of first places after nearly 3 hours of the competition. The judge favored Nesbitt after two tiebreakers.
The judge commended both for their skills in showing a variety of animals. The competition features the master showman in nine different animals: horse Western, horse English, dairy goat, meat goat, sheep, swine, llama, dairy cattle and beef cattle.
Isabel qualified after winning the beef showmanship while Natalie won the pig master showman.
The judge said Nesbitt’s intensity stood out, and she showed great determination working with some uncooperative animals.
Isabel Nesbitt shows a sheep during the grueling event on Saturday at the fair. The exhibitors had to learn how to show animals they usually don’t work with during the fair.
“I love the competition,” Nesbitt said after winning the grand master title.
She has been showing animals at the fair since she was 8.
“It’s a true passion,” Nesbitt said. “I’ve learned so much from the older kids at the fair.”
Natalie Miller shows a dairy cow among the many different species during the grand master showmen competition. Behind her is Kaitlin Bennett of Barre. Natalie said showing the llamas was the most difficult because they are so tall and her arms had to be outstretched to control the animal with a halter.
Carissa Klossner, 18, smiles while showing a llama. She qualified as a llama master showman.
Gary “GJ” Donofrio, 17, of Bergen won the grand master title a year ago. He is shown keeping a dairy cow under control in the show ring.
Marissa Young (left), 14, of Kendall and Brooke Jurek of Kendall show sheep. Marissa qualified by winning the Western horse title. Brooke, who just graduated from Kendall, was the English horse showmanship champion.
Celes Paratore, 18, of Corfu leads a steer in the show ring. She qualified as the top meat goat showman. Earlier on Saturday she won the small animal grand master showman.
Kaitlin Bennett, 17, of Barre shows a dairy animal during the competition. She qualified as a the dairy master showman.
Kate Bennett, 15, of Brockport shows a llama. She won the dairy goat master showman title.
Judge Kirby Palmer keeps a close eye on how well the showmen are maintaining eye contact and leading the animals in the ring, as well as setting them up to best show off their desired characteristics.
Palmer said all of the showmen are clearly hard workers who she expects will be leaders in the future.
Brooke Jurek leads a horse as part of the grand master competition.
The showmen try to keep control of these pigs with gentle taps with a show stick.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 1 August 2026 at 1:54 pm
Photos by Tom Rivers
KNOWLESVILLE – Celes Paratore, left, holds the trophy after winning the small animal grand master showman title this morning at the Orleans County 4-H Fair. Bailey Gonzalez, right, is the reserve grand master showman.
The two are both 18 and have been showing animals at the fair since they were 5 and Clover Buds.
The Small Animal Grand Master competition includes the top two showmen in Dog, Rabbit, Poultry and Mini Horse. All master and reserve showman in those four species compete for the Small Animal Grand Master title.
Paratore, a Corfu resident, qualified after winning the poultry and rabbit showmen competitions. Gonzalez, an Albion resident, won the dog showman event.
Paratore was the reserve grand master showman last year, finishing second to her sister, Evelyn. Celes said she has accumulated years of knowledge in showing and learning about many breeds and species of animals. She started as a 4-Her showing a chicken, and then added a rabbit, goats and a cow.
“I like the self confidence it gives you,” she said about showing animals. “It promotes self awareness, whether you win, lose or draw.”
She will be studying teacher education at GCC in the fall. She currently works as a nutrition educator for the Cornell Cooperative Extension in Orleans County. Paratore also will be competing in the large animal grand master showmen competition beginning at 4 p.m. today.
Bailey Gonzalez said she has enjoyed the friendships she’s made through the Orleans County 4-H Heelers Dog Club. She is comfortable showing dogs, rabbits and the mini horses, but showing poultry is a challenge.
“The chickens are squirmy, and they are a lot different with feathers and two legs,” she said.
Gonzalez graduated from Albion a year ago. She works at a kennel in Batavia.
The participants in the small animal grand master competition pose for a photo after the event. From left include Robert Hofmann, 14, of Albion, reserve master showman for dogs; Celes Paratore, 18, of Corfus, small animal grandmaster showman and master for poultry and rabbits; Madelyn Meyer, 12, of Attica, master showman for miniature horses; Bailey Gonzalez, 18, of Albion, the reserve grand master and master showman for dogs; Eveyln Paratore, 14, of Corfu, reserve master showmen for poultry and rabbits; and Alizabeth Murray, 17, of Medina, the miniature horse reserve master showman.
The judges commend the participants for their showmanship skills and knowledge of the animals. Nicole Dabney, wearing hat, is speaking. She is the horse judge. Other judges included Antonia Garcia for dogs, Dave Gerling for poultry and Susie Gerling for rabbits.
Photos and information from Orleans County Clay Crushers
The Orleans County Clay Crushers competed in the 25th Annual Scholastic Clay Target Program National Championship at the Cardinal Shooting Center in Marengo, Ohio from July 11 to July 19.
Ten athletes from the Clay Crushers competed across multiple disciplines, including International and Doubles Skeet, Handicap and Doubles Trap, American Trap and Skeet, Sporting Clays, and Super Sporting, shooting nearly 3,000 targets. They joined more than 3,000 athletes from 40 states who competed in the event.
The local team was represented by Garrison Foote, Molly Frasier, Jonathan Frasier, Connor Jurs, Jamison King, Jace Ladue, Hunter Mundt, Jim Tobin, Lane Woodworth and Morgan Woodworth. Notably, Morgan placed 3rd in the nation in American Trap within the Intermediate Entry Division.
We would like to extend our gratitude to Mr. & Mrs. Michael Elam, the Junior Wilson Sportsmen’s Club, the Medina Conservation Club, the Orleans County Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs, and Parkitects for their financial support.
A special thank you also goes to our coaches: Jeff Atwell, Ashley Butcher, Mike Donahue, Jon Frasier, Chris Rice, Ryan Uderitz and Patrick Woodworth.
Morgan Woodworth took third in the nation in American Trap in the Intermediate Entry Division.
Photos courtesy of Albion Alumni Foundation: Ingrid Lamont congratulates Nisi Beltran Roblero as she receives the Lamont Family Scholarship. It is awarded to a student who demonstrates high academic enthusiasm, involvement in their community and a strong sense of personal integrity.
Press Release, Albion Alumni Foundation
ALBION – The Alumni High School Alumni Foundation awarded $208,350 in scholarships to Albion High School Class of 2026 graduates during their annual Class Night ceremony. These awards provide financial assistance to seniors as they continue to pursue their educational goals after high school graduation.
The Foundation’s scholarship committee and some donors chose recipients for 59 academic, vocational, service, leadership, arts and athletics scholarships. The donors and scholarship committee reviewed numerous applications and chose students that they felt best fit each scholarship’s criteria.
Two new annual scholarships were awarded for the first time this year in the areas of art and theater. Established by her family and friends, both of these scholarships are in memory of Kim Marie Nesbitt, a beloved high school art teacher who passed away in October, 2025.
Kim had a passion for art and she loved teaching. She could always bring out the best in her students and helped them to build confidence and find their artistic talent. She also played a role in the drama department shows as the set design coordinator. For many years she worked with students to design and construct sets for the fall and spring shows. It is our hope that these scholarships will help Albion graduates dream big and succeed in their endeavors.
Roger Hungerford meets with Albion High School Alumni Foundation board member Charles Nesbitt and President Steve Hicks before Class Night. Hungerford funded the Kim Marie Nesbitt Excellence in Art Award and Scholarship and was on hand for the inaugural presentation.
The new scholarships are:
The Kim Marie Nesbitt Excellence in Art Award and Scholarship – This annual award and scholarship was established in 2026 and presented to a high school student who has had an outstanding high school art career. It consists of a $500 Excellence in Art award and a $4,500 scholarship, which is renewable in the amount of $5,000 for up to three additional years.This scholarship is funded by Roger Hungerford, a dear friend of the Nesbitt family.
Hanna Kumalac accepts the inaugural Kim Marie Nesbitt Excellence in Art Award and Scholarship from Charles Nesbitt.
The Kim Marie Nesbitt and Gary Simboli Excellence in Theater Scholarship – This annual scholarship is given to a student who demonstrates exceptional commitment and outstanding achievement in high school theater arts. It consists of a $5,000 scholarship. This scholarship is funded by the Nesbitt family and friends.
Charles Nesbitt congratulates Julia Button on receiving the Kim Marie Nesbitt and Gary Simboli Excellence in Theater Scholarship.
The Albion High School Alumni Foundation Scholarships are made possible through the generosity of our Albion Alumni members and the local community. We are grateful to them for their willingness to support so many Albion graduates through our scholarship program.
If you are interested in starting a scholarship or want to learn more about the Albion High School Alumni Foundation, please contact Steve Hicks, Albion Alumni Foundation President, at steve@albionalumni.org.
Congratulations to all 2026 scholarship recipients!
2026 scholarship recipients:
Albion High School Alumni Foundation Scholarship – Julia Button, Alondra Santana Gonzalez, Juliana Newbould, Lindsay Crawford
Paul R. Haines Memorial Scholarship – Justin Kania
Elizabeth Balcom Smith Scholarship – Neveya Barnes
Golden Performance Scholarship – Neveya Barnes
Jim & Susie Fraser Health Careers Scholarship – Nisi Beltran Roblero
Minier Family Scholarship – Xzavier Gerow
Albion Alumni Foundation Performing Arts Scholarship – Gideon Pask
Coach Richard Diminuco Scholarship for Athletic Excellence – Kaiden Froman
Harry W. Salchak Science Scholarship – Alondra Santana Gonzales
A.B. Dick Eddy Service Above Self Scholarship – Neveya Barnes
Benjamin Dennis Kirby Memorial Scholarship- Gideon Pask, Hannah Kumalac, Juan Gomez-Roblero
Oak Orchard Bowl/Whittier Scholarship – Myles Beach, Neveya Barnes
Country Lane Veterinary Scholarship- Aubrey Gannon
Babbitt Family Scholarship – Abigail Kincaid
Matthew K. Gardner Memorial Scholarship- Kaiden Froman
Scott H. Ward Memorial Scholarship- Nathan Gibson
Craig Anderson Scholarship – Wesley Olles
Brennan Michael Carlyle Moody Scholarship – Neveya Barnes, Nisi Beltran Roblero
Jared M. Fearby Scholarship – Aubrey Gannon
Edward Fancher Memorial Scholarship – Gideon Pask
Gil and Christine Pritchard Vocational Scholarship – Renzo Tomasi
Lamont Family Scholarship – Nisi Beltran Roblero
Kelly Sidari Ricker Memorial Scholarship – Justin Kania
Gwenyth Hughson Memorial Scholarship – Tristian Tilbe
Nicholas Kovaleski Memorial Scholarship – Kaitlynn Basinait
Hoag Skilled Trades Scholarship- Nathan Gibson, William Plummer
Betty West Memorial Scholarship – Kailee Anstey
Stewart New Scholarship – Abigail Ferris
Dick Tower Scholarship – Kaitlin Bennett
Alvin Smith Family Scholarship – Madison Muckle
Sperandio Foundation Family Scholarship – Hanna Kumalac, Logan Poupore
Lu Johnson Memorial Scholarship – Ava Ludwick
Bradley James Shelp Jr. Memorial Scholarship – Abigail Kincaid
Jonathan Doherty Scholarship – Dejeanna Conner
Raymond M. Lissow Scholarship – Julia Button
Paganelli Family Scholarship – Madison Muckle
Coach Robert Ord “Power of Perseverance” Award – Tristian Tilbe
Sacco Family Memorial Musical Scholarship – Gideon Pask
Kim Marie Nesbitt Excellence in Art Award and Scholarship – Hanna Kumalac
Kim Marie Nesbitt and Gary Simboli Excellence in Theater Scholarship – Julia Button
(Left) Aubrey Gannon accepts the Moore Family Scholarship from board member Mollie Radzinski. Established by Ann R. Moore and Robert H. Moore, this scholarship recognizes academic achievement, school and community activities and potential for future accomplishment. (Right) Christine Fancher congratulates Gideon Pask on receiving the Edward Fancher Memorial Scholarship. Ed was a very active Alumni Foundation board member and exemplified a life of service to his community. This award recognizes a student who exhibits traits of exceptional service and involvement in his community.
BATAVIA – Several students from Orleans County are among the 267 who made the President’s List at Genesee Community College. Students honored on the President’s List have maintained full-time enrollment and earned a quality point index of 3.75 (roughly equivalent to an A) or better.
The students from Orleans County include:
Olivia Eaton of Medina
Riezel Carino of Medina
Leah Knab of Albion
Sophia Albanese of Albion
Ethan Hofmann of Albion
Leanne Hofmann of Albion
Rowan Hofmann of Albion
Cheryl Root of Albion
Lauren Rissew of Albion
Alexander Zaczek of Albion
Ashton Drought of Holley
Khawla Saleh of Holley
Joshua Bovenzi of Holley
Emma Brady of Holley
Taylor Frasier of Kent
Keenan Washington of Kent
Genesee Community College serves over 6,000 students per semester through more than 70 academic programs and certificates, including the new Marketing and Social Media concentration within the Business Administration program, and the new Nanotechnology degree with ECC. On a microscopic scale, nanotech focuses on careers in biology, chemistry, electrical engineering, medicine and photovoltaics.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 7 July 2026 at 6:48 am
Provided photos: Orleans Community Health’s CEO Marc Shurtz was joined in Buffalo by associates to accept the Buffalo Business First Excellence in Health Care Award on June 17. Pictured, from left, are Tami Condo, Rhonda Woody, director of cardiac services, who earned the distinction in 2023; Shurtz; and Mary Williams, retired director of human resources at OCH.
MEDINA – Orleans Community Health’s CEO/CIO was presented with the “Excellence in Health Care” award by Buffalo Business First during an annual celebration June 17.
The occasion recognized healthcare leaders from across Western New York who have shown exceptional leadership, innovation and commitment to improving healthcare in their communities.
Orleans Community Health’s CEO/CIO Marc Shurtz and Rhonda Woody, director of cardiac services pose with their awards at Medina Memorial Hospital. Shurtz was just honored by Buffalo Business First with their Excellence in Health Care award. Woody received the same honor in 2023.
Marc Shurtz has served as CEO/CIO of Orleans Community Health for the past six years and has worked in healthcare for more than 11 years. Since joining Orleans Community Health in 2020, after previously serving as chief information officer and corporate compliance officer, he has guided the organization through executive transition, operational challenges and strategic growth, while maintaining a steadfast commitment to preserving access to quality healthcare close to home.
As OCH’s CEO/CIO, Shurtz provides executive leadership for the organization, while overseeing strategic technology initiatives and operational direction. He works closely with organizational leadership, staff and community partners to advance system-wide priorities and expand access to healthcare services throughout Orleans County and the surrounding region. His leadership combines strategic vision with a hands-on, community-centered approach.
Jeanie Wodo, director of IT Services at Orleans Community Health, submitted the nomination recognizing Shurtz for the award. She attended the reception to see Shurtz receive the award.
Following the ceremony, Shurtz commented on the importance of rural healthcare and the team behind the recognition.
“Rural healthcare is about more than providing medical services – it’s about caring for our neighbors, strengthening our communities and ensuring everyone has access to quality healthcare close to home,” Shurtz said. “I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from Buffalo Business First, but this award truly belongs to our entire Orleans Community Health team. Their compassion, dedication and commitment to our patients make achievements like this possible every day.”
Shurtz becomes the second Orleans Community Health leader to receive the Buffalo Business First Excellence in Health Care Award. He joins Rhonda Woody, director of cardiac services, who earned the distinction in 2023. She attended the June 17 awards ceremony alongside Shurtz as he accepted this year’s honor, marking another proud milestone for Orleans Community Health.
The Buffalo Business First Excellence in Health Care awards recognize individuals whose leadership, service and commitment are helping shape the future of healthcare throughout Western New York.
Provided photo: Pictured from left include Cherish Potter, Jennifer Raduns and Abigail Kincaid.
Press Release, Orleans/Niagara BOCES
MEDINA – Jennifer Raduns wanted to do something to honor the memory of her grandson Liam. The six-month old baby was beaten by his father in 2016 and later died from his injuries.
Raduns shared the heartbreaking story with students at the Orleans and Niagara Career and Technical Education Centers before she handed out the Liam’s Legacy Memorial Scholarships to Cherish Potter (Barker), Abigail Kincaid (Albion) and Julianne Viera (Lockport).
The students were chosen because they are all actively involved in health care programs at the CTE centers.
“I wanted to pay homage to the first responders who tried to save Liam’s life,” said Ms. Raduns.
Teagan Balaban of Medina and Aidan Kelley of Holley spent week at camp
Photos and information courtesy of Zach Busch, Holley band director
FREDONIA – Incoming Seniors Teagan Balaban of Medina and Aidan Kelley of Holley spent the last week at the Fredonia Summer Music Festival Band Camp.
The Fredonia Summer Music Festival is a six-day camp hosted on the SUNY Fredonia campus. Middle and high school students from around the state can enroll in various camps such as Middle School Band, High School Band, Choral, Composition or Piano.
While attending the camp, students can perform in groups like the Wind Symphony, Chamber Ensembles, and Jazz Ensemble. To round out their daily schedule, students attend music elective classes, master classes and lessons with SUNY Fredonia Staff and students, and various recreational activities. Attending the Fredonia Summer Music Festival gives students a week-long taste of life as a college music major.
Teagan Balaban of Medina, back left in glasses, and Aidan Kelley, right in second row, both played the clarinet at the band camp.
Both Teagan and Aidan play clarinet as their primary instrument and participated in the same ensembles at last week’s camp. Thursday evening, they performed with the Woodwind Choir, comprised of about 30 student musicians playing instruments ranging from the Flute to the Baritone Saxophone. The students performed movements II and III of Patrick Glenn Harper’s “Three Sketches for Woodwind Ensemble” under the direction of Ms. Jackie Ellmauer, camp counselor and 7/8 Band Director at Transit Middle School in Williamsville.
During the Fredonia Summer Music Festival’s Large Ensembles Concert, Teagan and Aidan performed in the Festival Chorus, Jazz Ensemble, and Wind Symphony.
The Festival Chorus was under the direction of Dr. Vernon Huff of SUNY Fredonia, and performed a medley from the musical Rent, as well as the Armed Forces Salute to honor the 250th Anniversary of the United States.
The High School Jazz Ensemble was under the direction of Elliott Scozzaro, adjunct Jazz Lecturer at SUNY Fredonia. The group performed “Isle of Blue” by Les Sabina and “All ‘Dem Leaves” by Ryan Erik Adamsons. Aidan and Teagan were able to showcase their talents on secondary instruments in the Jazz Ensemble, playing the tenor sax and alto sax, respectively.
The Wind Symphony was under the direction of Mrs. Christina Helbock, band director of Brentwood High School on Long Island. The Wind Symphony performed technically challenging repertoire including “The Iliad” by Robert W. Smith, “Mary Shelley Meets Frankenstein” by Erika Svanoe, and “Exultate” by Samuel Hazo.
Both Teagan and Aidan intend to audition to SUNY Fredonia’s School of Music this coming year.
Photos by Natalie Baron: Madison Farley of Medina smiles as she shakes hands with Susan Starkweather Miller, the keynote speaker. She handed out Michael Josephson’s poem, “What Will Matter.”
By Natalie Baron, correspondent
LYNDONVILLE – On Monday evening, the Top 10 graduates in the Class of 2026 in Orleans County’s five school districts were celebrated with the annual banquet at White Birch Golf Course. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the event.
The graduates spoke with humility and gratitude, while their parents could not have been prouder.
“It’s such an honor to be a part of Medina’s Top Ten, to be here,” Darlene Beach of Medina said.
Parent Roxanne Ham of Holley shared, “This is such a great accomplishment, for all of these seniors to put in all of this hard work and to see it pay off. I’m proud of my daughter and each and every student here. They each deserve the recognition.”
Susan Starkweather Miller was the 2026 keynote speaker. She is known for her commitments to community and service. She is retired from the Albion school district and now serves as the Village of Albion historian.
The 2026 keynote speaker was Susan Starkweather Miller. The Albion graduate went on to serve as Albion’s Public Information Officer, Service-Learning Coordinator, Internship Program Coordinator, Grants Manager, and Community Liaison.
She has been on the Albion High School Alumni Foundation for 35 years, as a board member and, presently, as vice-president. The board is behind developing and bestowing scholarships. Last year, the board gave nearly $200,000 to graduates. Starkweather Miller has always loved shining a spotlight on members of ACS.
In her retirement, Starkweather Miller has become the Village of Albion historian. She is one of the leaders behind the “Save Our Chapel” movement for the Mount Albion Cemetery. She has also become a Master Gardener and Master Food Preserver. Starkweather Miller loves to learn, garden, take photographs, travel with her husband, be spontaneous, interact with her friends, explore Mount Albion and the Erie Canal, and volunteer in her community and at her church.
Miller has received the Orleans County Heritage Heroes Award due to her work in the preservation of local history, the Albion Rotary Club’s Paul Harris Fellow Award, which has the theme of “Service Above Self”, the Golden Empire Award from the NY School Public Relations Association for her efforts as the district’s Public Relations Officer, and the Excellence in Teaching Award from the Albion High School National Honor Society.
The Lyndonville Top 10 include: Bottom Row: Savannah Spoth, Emily Miner, Rylan Townsend, Isabella Groves, Brooke Robinson and Elena Barry. Top Row: Barbara Jary, McKinley Price, Benjamin Doolan and Colton Smith. Included in the photo are Superintendent Heather Lyon, Principal Aaron Slack and BOE President Patrick Whipple.
Before the dinner, Starkweather Miller had the opportunity to walk around and talk to some of the students present that night about what she has noticed they have done in the community, noting that they are “quite an amazing group of young adults.”
As such, she felt very honored to be speaking to them that night. Additionally, she felt a sense of “déjà vu” as she used to coordinate this very event, and she would even chat with past keynote speakers.
Starkweather Miller laid out the characteristics she believes these graduates possess or can develop that will help them to lead not only a Top 10 high school experience, but a 10 life, rich in success and fulfillment. Her broad themes were community, willingness, service, leadership, sportsmanship, helping people, volunteering and connection.
She began with human connection, describing how she read about the graduates’ accomplishments on their school websites, in the papers, and on social media and recognized their efforts to connect with others. She said how, in that room, there were Eagle Scouts, FFA members, Student Council members, Class Officers, National Honor Society members, Cornell Cooperative Extension 4-H Program members, crash simulation volunteers, Scholar Athletes, Lions Club Leos, Rotary Interact community service volunteers, and more.
“Thank you for learning to be leaders to your peers and teaching others new skills,” she stated, taking the time and effort to thank the students for their hard work for these various groups.
The Kendall Top 10 include: Bottom Row: Adrianna Schiavone, Brooke Jurek, Marlie Clark, Madison Hults, Brooke Rodas and Stella Kwiatek. Top Row: Brandon Barrett, Jonathan Conte, Joseph Fagan and Jonathan Esposito. Missing from the photo: Wyatt Anderson. Included in the photo are Superintendent Nicholas Picardo, BOE President Rachel Fisken, BOE Vice-President Lisa Levett and Principal Melissa Strelick.
She stressed the importance of perseverance and how much these students have persevered already by simply making it into the Top 10.
“Remember that life doesn’t happen to you. You make things in your life happen for you,” she expressed. “Let’s face it, it’s easier to give up than to persevere, but the sense of accomplishment by following through is immeasurable.”
She described the need for emotional intelligence. “Being academically intelligent isn’t everything. I think having high emotional intelligence is even more important. You could be the smartest person in the room, but if you don’t care about others, show empathy, or have self-awareness on how your actions affect others, then you probably won’t be as successful as you can be.”
She discussed citizenship, focusing on contributing, responding to needs, being informed, and voting. “We each have a role to play in improving our society.”
Jax Richards-Dyson of Holley receives his copy of “What Will Matter.” The poem describes living a life focused on giving.
Starkweather Miller also talked about kindness and connection by seeing people, being happy for others’ successes, and recognizing them. She described service and getting involved even after high school, communication skills, problem-solving, creativity and innovation, teamwork, time management, active listening and responding, adaptability, and soft skills like being dependable, responsible, positive, and prideful without being overconfident.
“It’s okay. I give you permission if you change your mind on what and who you want to be. It doesn’t mean you’re a failure,” Miller said. “Don’t be afraid to fail, because often, the best learning about who you really are comes in the face of failure.”
“Think of people who have had the biggest impact on your life. Chances are they aren’t the richest or most famous, but they were the ones who showed up, the ones who listened the ones who encouraged you and helped you, even when they didn’t have to, the ones who saw you and cared.” Miller closed with a passage from Michael Josephson’s poem What Will Matter about this very idea.
“‘Choose to live a life that matters.’” As the Top 10 graduates walked the stage to receive their medallions, she handed them the poem.
The Medina Top 10 include: Bottom Row: Madison Farley, Bellaflor Gomez-Hernandez, Darlene Beach, Lilah Class, Allie Frentz and Mahri Harmer-Owen. Top Row: Brennan Woodruff, Alexander Wilson, Hunter Walczak and Caden Kingsbury. Included in the photo are Superintendent Mark Kruzynski, Principal Michael Cavanagh, BOE President Alissa Mitchell and Assistant Principal Mollie Mark.
The Albion Top 10 include: Bottom Row: Hanna Kumalac, Lindsay Crawford, Aubrey Gannon, Neveya Barnes, Kaitlin Bennett and Julia Button. Top Row: Joshua Zayac, Bradley Pierce, Nathaniel Miesner and Gideon Pask. Included in the photo are BOE President Linda Weller, Superintendent Mickey Edwards and Principal Jennifer Ashbery.
The Holley Top 10 include: Bottom Row: Mia Thom, Alexis VanAmeron, Nora Lindsay, Annalee Ham, Carissa Klossner and Payton Preston. Top Row: Jax Richards-Dyson, Hunter Pachla, Landyn Burch and Kohle Pachla. Included in the photo are Principal Matthew Feldman, Superintendent Karri Schiavone, BOE President Trina Lorentz and BOE Vice-President Jessica Sniatecki.
Gideon Pask shakes hands with Albion Superintendent Mickey Edwards as he is given his award. Another year of the Academic Excellence Awards Dinner wrapped successfully.
Provided photo: Martin Miskell, Chief Executive Officer for Arc GLOW, congratulates Lynn Fleming, Arc’s CFO/COO, for completing The Arc New York Leadership Institute.
Arc GLOW Chief Financial and Chief Operating Officer Lynn Fleming recently graduated from The Arc New York Leadership Institute.
She is one of the 26 participants who completed the 10-month executive development program. Throughout the program, participants engaged in group learning, one-on-one mentorship, and meaningful discussions designed to strengthen their leadership skills and prepare them to guide the Arc into continued success.
The Arc New York created the Leadership Institute to cultivate leadership potential across our statewide network and invest in the next generation of leaders.
Fleming, who joined the agency in 2019, has been a driving force for financial stability and programmatic growth across Genesee, Livingston, Orleans and Wyoming counties. Through The Arc New York Leadership Institute, she collaborated with peers statewide, analyzing innovative social enterprises and honing best practices to directly benefit the mission-driven impact at Arc GLOW.
Arc GLOW is a public non-profit supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Genesee, Livingston, Orleans and Wyoming counties.
Liam Castricone from Medina and assigned to Bravo Troop, 2nd Squadron, 101st Cavalry Regiment, received a promotion May 27 to the rank of private first class.
Army National Guard promotions are based on a soldier’s overall performance, demonstrated leadership abilities, professionalism and future development potential.
Major General Ray Shields, the adjutant general for the state of New York, announced the recent promotion.
Army National Guard citizen soldiers who serve our state and nation are eligible for monthly pay, educational benefits (from the state and federal government), travel across the globe, technical and leadership training, health and dental insurance and contributions towards retirement programs similar to a 401(k).
For more information about the New York Army National Guard, visit www.dmna.ny.gov.
ROCHESTER – ESL Federal Credit Union, which operates 33 branches in the Rochester area including one in Medina, is pleased to announce that for the ninth time, Great Place to Work® and Fortune magazine named the locally-owned financial institution one of 2026’s Best Workplaces in New York State.
ESL ranked 8 on the list of 60 small and medium-sized companies, along with 40 large companies. The financial institution is included among several other respected New York-based large, medium, and small employers, including First American Equipment Finance, Doyle Security Systems, and QuickFi by Innovation in the small and medium category, and Wegmans, Labella Associates, and The Bonadio Group in the large category.
“We are grateful to once again be named to this list, as it’s a wonderful testament to the dedication of our team at ESL. Our employees consistently live our core values, laying the foundation for a positive workplace culture,” said Maureen Wolfe, executive vice president, chief administrative officer. “We recognize that a superior member experience begins with an exceptional employee experience. By regularly collaborating with and listening to our team, we can continue to grow as an organization and help uplift the communities we serve.”
To determine the Best Workplaces in New York, Great Place to Work® provides an opportunity for every employee at every GPTW-certified company in New York State to complete a survey. The company’s “For All Methodology” builds on the Trust Model by ensuring that very single employee, no matter who they are or what they do for their company, is having a consistently positive experience at work.
Provided photos: The Holley-Kendall Marching Band is shown today outside the Sherburne-Earlville Elementary School.
Press Release, Holley-Kendall Marching Band
The Holley-Kendall Marching Band’s had strong showings in the 58th Gorham Pageant of Bands and the 77th Sherburne Pageant of Bands.
58th Gorham Pageant of Bands
The Gorham Pageant of Bands has returned after a several-year hiatus following the Covid-19 pandemic and dwindling participation. The Pageant, hosted by the Marcus Whitman Band and Guard Boosters, has been a long-time tradition for many band programs in both Orleans County and Western NY.
The Holley HS Jazz Ensemble competed in the 58th Gorham Pageant of Bands Jazz Fest on Friday, May 29. Enrolled in the Small School Class (total K-12 enrollment less than 3,000 students), Holley HS competed against Perry HS and Mexico HS.
Waterloo Middle School was the only band in the Middle School category and Baldwinsville High School was the only band in the Large School Category. The evening was capped with a performance by a local professional jazz group: Bill Tiberio & the Canandaigua Jazz Project.
The Holley High School Jazz Ensemble won several awards at 58th Gorham Pageant of Bands Jazz Fest.
Holley performed a varied repertoire including “Can I Be Honest With You?” by Dave Mills, “Prayer Meetin'” by Matt Harris, and “Tiger of San Pedro” by John LaBarbera.
Small School Jazz Results: 3rd Waterloo HS; 2nd Perry HS; Best Rhythm Section; 1st Holley HS; Best Saxophone Section, Best Brass Section, Best Soloist (Jax Richards-Dyson, Piano).
Saturday, May 30th
On Saturday, the Holley-Kendall Marching Band took to the streets for the first time in Small School Parade Competition at the 58th Gorham Pageant of Bands. There were a total of 9 bands in the parade, 5 of which were competing in the Small School Class. In the parade, the Holley-Kendall Marching Band performed their 2026 Show titled “OZ”, which features song selections from the Wizard of Oz, The Wiz, and Wicked.
Junior Class: 1st – The Pride of Rochester, 77.5
Small School Class: 5th – Dundee, 76.5; 4th – Waterloo, 80; 3rd – Mexico, 90; 2nd – Holley-Kendall, 90.5; and 1st – Naples, 96.5.
Best Overall Drumline/Cadence – Naples
Best Drum Major(s) – Holley-Kendall
Best Color Guard – Naples
Exhibition: White Sabers Drum & Bugle Corps
The Holley-Kendall Drum Majors won first place at the Gorham pageant. From left include Riley Passer, Madison Hults and Layla Jones.
77th Sherburne Pageant of Bands
On Saturday, June 6th, the Holley-Kendall Marching Band competed in Class AA for the 77th Sherburne Pageant of Bands. A total of 25 Bands competed in the Parade ranging from Jr. High Bands, the High School Class D all the way up to AA.
Class AA Color Guard: 3rd (Tie) Holley-Kendall & Norwich, 83.00; 2nd – Mexico, 85.00; and 1st – Fonda-Fultonville, 87.00.
Class AA Parade: 5th – Sidney, 73.75; 4th – Fonda-Fultonville 82.375; 3rd – Mexico, 84.75; 2nd – Norwich, 88.75; and 1st – Holley-Kendall, 90.75.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 4 June 2026 at 5:16 pm
Photo by Tom Rivers
ALBION – The Albion Rotary Club today presented three scholarships. The recipients include, from left: Neveya Barnes, Kaitlin Bennett and Will Plummer. The Rotary Club meets at the Tavern on the Ridge.
Neveya Barnes was awarded the Dick Eddy “Service above Self” Scholarship. This $1,250 scholarship is awarded in memory of Eddy, a community leader, businessman, and Rotarian, who committed his life to the principle of Service above Self.
This scholarship is awarded to a senior who demonstrates a personal commitment to community service and leadership, and displays high potential for future accomplishment.
Barnes has proven that she embodies the principles of “Service Above Self,” said Bonnie Malakie, the Rotary scholarship chairperson. Barnes is graduating 4th in the 2026 class academically with 97.2 average and will be attending the University of Buffalo for Social Work.
“Neveya has proven her commitment to the community and desire to serve others by volunteering almost 600 hours since 9th grade, including volunteering as a Girl Scout Camp Counselor all four years and with the Special Olympics three years,” Malakie said.
Barnes also has been involved in bowling, dancing, instrumental music, musical theater, chorus, Girl Scouts, choir, bell-ringing and other activities. She is currently the class president and has served as a social work intern at the Elementary School.
“I truly believe that every person deserves to live peacefully and have chances to explore their aspirations,” she wrote in her essay. “I want to give back kindness to the world that has offered me so many opportunities.”
Kaitlin Bennett will receive the Edward B. Archbald Memorial Scholarship, a $ 1,250 scholarship in memory of Ed Archbald, who was a farmer, philanthropist, outdoorsman, and a 70-year member of Rotary.
This scholarship is presented to a graduating senior pursuing a college education who shares Archbald’s love for sports, recreational activities, community service, and work experience.
Bennett has proven that she has a vision very similar to that of Ed Archbald and has demonstrated this through her involvement in sports, recreational activities, agriculture, and community service, Malakie said.
Bennett is 5th in the class with a GPA of 97.15 and will be attending Monroe Community College, which recruited her to play softball. She will be majoring in business administration and accounting.
She plans to return to her family farm after MCC and be the fourth generation at the operation.
“My biggest goal is to continue keeping the farm alive and prospering,” she wrote in her essay. “I hope to someday be able to give my kids the same farm lifestyle that I am grateful to have had.”
Bennett has volunteered in many capacities for over 200 hours including the Barre Presbyterian Church, softball with younger students, Travel Softball and the FFA. She has been actively involved in softball, dance, FFA, and 4-H for all of her high school years, while also working at AL Bennett & Sons in many capacities, Dresser’s Dairy Farm and the Orleans County Elections Department.
William Plummer won the Rotary Career Advancement Prize, a $500 prize for a graduating senior entering a field that doesn’t require a traditional college education, such as a technical field, agriculture, law enforcement, or business.
Plummer is planning to join the US Air Force in August to further his education in engineering. Once he completes his service, he would like to continue his education at Alfred University, where he has been accepted, and to eventually return to the area to start a small business.
He has a GPA of 92.9 and is 13th in the class. He has volunteered regularly for FFA and other organizations, has played baseball and been in cross country for four years. He also has been actively involved in many other groups including FFA, the marching band, National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, and Skills USA. He also has worked at Kirby’s Farm and The Village House. In the Air Force he wants to pursue mechanical technology and business management, and explore air traffic control person or an airframe maintenance inspector.
His goal is to run a small motor-vehicle workshop in Albion.
