Photo from Arc GLOW – The eight graduates show their certificates and citations from State Sen. Rob Ortt and Assemblyman Steve Hawley. The graduates were recognized on May 31 during a celebration at the Cornell Cooperative Extension in Orleans County.

Press Release, Arc GLOW

KNOWLESVILLE – Eight people with Arc GLOW recently celebrated their graduation from SANYS-U, a six-week course developed by the Self-Advocacy Association of New York State.

The graduates on May 31 stood proudly with certificates from SANYS-U in front of local representatives, friends and family at Orleans County Cornell Cooperative Extension.

This program is designed to provide people with developmental disabilities and their direct support staff with a deeper understanding of self-advocacy through engaging discussions, hands-on activities, and collaborative learning. Arc GLOW had a second cohort of five self-advocates and three self-direction assistants successfully complete the program.

Willow Baer, the newly appointed commissioner of the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), had a recorded message for the graduates, and Orleans County District Attorney Susan Howard gave words of encouragement.

Sophia Roberts and B.J. Stasio from SANYS presented the graduates with their certificates with Julia Bauer, constituent relations staff and community liaison for state Sen. Rob Ortt, and Assemblyman Steve Hawley giving each graduate a citation.

This graduation was a special one as it was held on the 4th Annual Jonathan Doherty and Gladys Hopper Self-Advocacy Day, established in honor of two self-advocates and founding members of Orleans County Self-Advocacy All-Stars.

“At the time of his passing, Jonathan was deeply committed to creating a day that celebrated and empowered self-advocates. To carry forward his vision and legacy, our group came together to make his dream a reality—and Self-Advocacy Day was born,” said Andrew Johnson, President of the Self-Advocacy All-Stars and graduate of SANYS-U. “Each year, we bring together individuals, advocates, and organizations to share resources, ideas, and inspiration. We invite community partners to speak or host informational tables on a variety of topics that support independence, well-being, and advocacy.”

Johnson added the Self-Advocate Annual Talent Show raised $900, and they wanted to give back this year. They donated $200 to SANYS-U and Mercy Flight each.

Arc GLOW is a public non-profit serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Genesee, Livingston, Orleans and Wyoming counties. To learn more, visit ArcGLOW.org.

Photos by Tom Rivers: Karter May of Kendall accepts commendations on Thursday as one of 14 youths honored during the annual youth recognition banquet. May has dedicated over 600 hours of community service, and also is involved as a leader of several clubs at Kendall.

Clockwise starting in back right: Karter May of Kendall, Aidan Oberther of Medina, Hannah Rowland of Shelby, Kylee Dann of Holley, Grace Goodrich of Medina, Madison Davis of Lyndonville, Garrett Koch of Medina, Noah Fox of Lyndonville, MacKenzie Fiorito of Holley, Keira Zambito of Albion, Theresa Biesinger of Medina and Morgan Bidwell of Kendall. Not pictured include Christina Molina of Medina and Makenzie McGrath of Medina.

LYNDONVILLE – The Orleans County Youth Board recognized 14 students and three adults on Thursday for their service to others.

About 100 people attended the 43^rd annual youth recognition banquet at the White Birch Golf Course. They received commendations from the Orleans County Legislature, Assemblyman Steve Hawley and State Sen. Robert Ortt.

Students give many hours of community service and find ways to assist others through clubs and organizations in their schools, or outside of school through the fire department or other programs.

The following students were recognized: Morgan Bidwell, Theresa Biesinger, Kylee Dann, Madison Davis, MacKenzie Fiorito, Noah Fox, Grace Goodrich, Garrett Koch, Karter May, Makenzie McGrath, Christena Molina, Aidan Oberther, Hannah Rowland and Keira Zambito.

Father Mark Noonan, a priest with the ONE Catholic Parish in Orleans County, was the keynote speaker. He thanked the students and the adult honorees for committing themselves to service and kindness for others.

“The best things are yet to come,” Father Noonan shared in his message.

John Grillo, a Youth Borad member and Albion’s recreation director, thanked the students for setting a good example for their peers.

“You are the leaders in the community,” Grillo said. “We only hope others will follow in your footsteps.”

The Youth Board accepted nominations from the community for the awards for the youth and the adults.

“We have great hopes for them to become the best they can be and to continue to be great contributors to their communities now and into the future,” the Youth Board stated.

These adults were recognized for their service to youth and the community, from left: Pastor Al Wilson, Katherine Anderson and Saul Harrison.

Two adults received the Eileen Heye Adult Youth Volunteer Award: Katherine Anderson of Medina and Pastor Al Wilson who leads the Royal Body Shop Outreach Ministries in Albion.

Anderson was nominated for helping many of her neighbors mow their lawns and shovel sidewalks. She volunteers at the YMCA, helping children with pointers on shooting basketballs and kicking soccer balls.

“I just like helping others,” she said.

Anderson is a member of the Self-Advocacy All Stars through the GLOW Arc. She is a role model for every young person with her positive attitude and willingness to help others.

“She makes a huge impact on the Medina community,” said Allison Gursslin, who nominated Anderson for the award.

Pastor Al Wilson of the Royal Body Shop Outreach Ministries in Albion leada a church that serves 2,000 chicken barbecues for free every year near Christmas, runs an easter Egg Hunt with about 15,000 eggs full of treats on the Courthouse lawn, donates food throughout the year, provides lunches once a week during the summer parks program in Albion, and provides lots of encouragement through words and hugs, said John Grillo, Albion’s recreation director.

“Pastor Al has a passion for youth in our community and has been volunteering his service in Orleans County for many years, especially in the Village of Albion,” Grillo said. “His message and blessings are spoken with love and peace, all with a touch of humor,” Grillo said.

Wilson urged the group to keep loving others and sharing grace.

Saul Harrison of Albion receives the Helen R. Brinsmaid Adult Youth Worker Award. He is congratulated by Barb Flow of the Youth Board.

Harrison started as a youth care worker with the county in 2008, assisting children in foster homes.

“Saul is a gentle giant and is an inspiration in our community while spreading the message of love in his profession,” Grillo said.

Harrison does supervised visits with parents and children during the day or evening. His kindness and generosity are apparent while he works with others in challenging situations.

Harrison helps the youths work on goals, taking them to fitness gyms and also to local libraries.

He has been a long-time volunteer coach for youth football and baseball programs. Harrison is also a deacon at the Shiloh Church and cooks his barbecue fundraisers, often donating the funds to sports teams, Grillo said.

Harrison said he is thankful for his career and co-workers. He noted that many of his colleagues donating their personal and vacation time during his recent cancer treatments that kept him out of work for five months. Harrison didn’t have to collect disability because of his co-workers’ generosity.

Harrison said the cancer is treatable and his health has improved. He said the experience has been an opportunity to testify about God’s mercy and power in his life.

“I look forward to helping more youth,” he said.

Hannah Rowland, a junior who is home-schooled, was recognized for her service to the Shelby Volunteer Fire Company. She is a firefighter who has been an active volunteer with the fire company the past four years.

Garrett Koch, a senior at Medina, has been a trustworthy volunteer at Boxwood Cemetery, the MAAC Thrift Shop and with Medina IMPACT Day.

Photos courtesy of GCC: Top row from left include Barry Chow, Heather Jones and Kelly Starchok. Bottom row: Paul Brew and Amy Westfall.

Press Release, Genesee Community College

BATAVIA – Five exceptional members of the Genesee Community College team have been recognized by the State University of New York for outstanding contributions to their profession, the campus and the community.

The SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence is given in recognition of consistently superior professional achievement and encourages the ongoing pursuit of excellence.

“The SUNY Chancellor’s Awards represent the highest recognition of excellence across the SUNY System,” said Dr. Craig Lamb, president of GCC. “I am incredibly proud of our faculty and staff whose passion, innovation and dedication have earned this distinguished honor. Their work exemplifies the very best of Genesee Community College and our commitment to student success.”

The following faculty and staff members earned a SUNY Chancellor Award for the 2024-2025 academic year.

Paul Brew won the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Adjunct Teaching. This award recognizes consistently superior teaching at the graduate, undergraduate or professional level in keeping with the State University’s commitment to providing its students with instruction of the highest quality.

Mr. Brew has been a member of Genesee’s history faculty since 2008 and has taught a variety of courses including American History, World History, and American Government to name a few. History can be a challenging subject to engage students and they may often not recognize its value.

Mr. Brew uses a variety of strategies and approaches to spark curiosity and guide students to make connections between historical information and the present. He also effectively engages students in historical inquiry through active learning strategies, debates and collaborative projects.

Amy Westfall won the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in the Classified Service. These are system-level awards established by the university to give system-wide recognition for superior performance and extraordinary achievement by employees in the Classified Service. These awards demonstrate the university’s commitment to individuals who provide superior service to its students and the community at large.

During her career in the library, Westfall has demonstrated an exceptional ability to anticipate and meet the needs of faculty, ensure continuous and efficient library operations, and foster a welcoming and supportive environment for all members of the campus community.

Her contributions extend beyond her daily responsibilities, as she consistently advocates for students, identifies opportunities to enhance services, and offers guidance and support with the utmost compassion and discretion. Her role in facilitating a seamless transition during the relocation of the Learning Center and her personal commitment to student safety and well-being, are testaments to her profound impact.

Barry Chow won the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Faculty Service. This award recognizes the consistently superior service contributions of teaching faculty. This service must be sustained over multiple years and may occur in a variety of venues.

During his 26-year career at Genesee, Chow has been instrumental in fostering innovation, curriculum development and faculty leadership. His service to the college includes impactful presentations, committee leadership, and mentorship, shaping both academic policies and student engagement.

He has advised multiple student organizations, including the TV Club and Phi Theta Kappa, providing hands-on learning experiences that bridge theory with real-world application. Beyond the college, Barry has made contributions to the media and education fields, serving in leadership roles within the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE) and the Television Academy. His professional expertise has influenced both institutional advancements and industry standards.

Kelly Starchok won the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Professional Service. This award recognizes consistently superior professional achievement within and beyond the position.

Her passion for fostering student engagement led her to her current role as Director of Student Engagement & Inclusion, where she has redefined student involvement post-pandemic, creating an inclusive and dynamic campus environment. She has launched impactful initiatives and spearheaded the establishment of the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) chapter at GCC.

Starchok’s management of over 30 student clubs, supervision of major campus events and hands-on approach (e.g., stepping into the College mascot costume when needed) demonstrates her tireless dedication. Beyond her position, her creativity and problem-solving are evident in her successful implementation of GCC’s Bus Services, ensuring accessible transportation for students. She actively participates in key campus committees and represents GCC in external leadership initiatives, including Leadership Genesee and national student engagement conferences.

Heather Jones won the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching. This award recognizes consistently superior teaching at the graduate, undergraduate or professional level in keeping with the State University’s commitment to providing its students with instruction of the highest quality.

Jones has been a GCC faculty member since 2008 teaching a range of courses including Drawing, Painting, 2D Design, Art History and Portfolio Development. Her teaching philosophy, rooted in learner-centered strategies and Howard Gardner’s multiple intelligences theory, creates an engaging learning environment for students.

She utilizes a “5C’s” rubric to empower students to create and critique artwork using a guided approach to assessment that fosters a deeper understanding of the creative process. Beyond the classroom, Jones has demonstrated leadership through her work in art exhibits, illustration publishing, study abroad programs, collaborations with international institutions and innovative uses of technology. Her work as a Fulbright-Garcia Robles Scholar demonstrates her commitment to enhancing cross-cultural understanding through art.

Press Release, Orleans/Niagara BOCES

Photo courtesy of O/N BOCES: Pictured from left include Dr. Ronald Barstys (Director of Special Programs of Orleans/Niagara BOCES), Krista Macomber and Dr. Taweepon Farrar (District Superintendent/Chief Executive Officer of Orleans/Niagara BOCES).

Krista Macomber, a Special Programs Coordinator at Orleans/Niagara BOCES, was among those recognized from across the Western New York area by the Western New York Educational Service Council (WNYSEC) on April 30   at their Awards of Excellence ceremony at the Creekside Banquet Hall in Cheektowaga.

WNYSEC is an organization that provides support for the educational community, such as professional development, mentoring opportunities and research.  Each year, WNYSEC honors exceptional teachers, support staff, administrators, and board of education members for their outstanding service to their students, schools, district, and community.

According to Special Education Placement, Testing and Extended School Year Coordinator Lorrina Kostuk-Madonia, Mrs. Macomber’s legacy reflects a deep commitment to education, leadership and service to the community.

“She has had a remarkable journey from when she was hired in 2004 to her upcoming retirement this year,” Kostuk-Madonia said. “She has done impactful work throughout her tenure with Orleans/Niagara BOCES as a principal at the Orleans Learning Center, our classrooms at Emmet Belknap, Newfane Learning Center and the Godfrey Learning Center.”

In her career at ONBOCES, Mrs. Macomber has been named the Administrator of the Year and received the Exemplary Service Award for her work with the 13 component districts of ONBOCES.

“Krista is highly respected by her staff, colleagues and students,” says Kostuk-Madonia.  “She has built strong, positive relationships with her team, which has contributed to her staff’s willingness to follow her through transitions and support the various programs she leads. In summary, she is a highly accomplished educational leader whose impact extends far beyond the schools she oversees.

“Her dedication to her students, staff, and community, as well as her exceptional leadership qualities, make her an exemplary model for others to aspire. Her career reflects the highest standards of integrity, commitment and service, and she is truly deserving for any recognition for her contributions to education.”

Photo by Tom Rivers: Betty Sue Miller, the Hoag Library director, gives blood on Dec. 17, 2022 during a blood drive at the library. Miller has welcomed blood drives and many other programs into the library.

Press Release, Hoag Library

ALBION – Hoag Library is proud to announce that Library Director Betty Sue Miller has been awarded the Outstanding Service Award by the Nioga Library System, recognizing her exceptional leadership and dedication to public library service across Niagara, Orleans, and Genesee counties.

The award was presented during the Nioga Library System’s annual meeting, where colleagues and library leaders gathered to celebrate excellence in library service. The Outstanding Service Award honors individuals who go above and beyond in promoting library access, innovation and community impact.

Miller was recognized not only for her professional accomplishments but also for her welcoming personality and commitment to building strong relationships with the community. Patrons and colleagues alike know her as someone who is always ready with a smile, a warm greeting and a genuine interest in helping others. Her approachable nature and willingness to meet with and listen to patrons have made Hoag Library a trusted and inviting space for all.

Under her leadership, Hoag Library has expanded outreach programming, enhanced technology offerings, and strengthened community partnerships. She is also a recent graduate of the 2024 Leadership Orleans program, where she collaborated with leaders from across the region to address local challenges and build stronger communities.

For more information about Hoag Library’s programs and services, visit www.hoaglibrary.org.

Provided photo: Pictured from left include Lianna Sheffer, CFS Foster Care & Preventive Supervisor; Tim & Kathy Drake, Orleans County’s Foster Parents of the Year; and Lizzy Boring, CFS’s Homefinder.

Press Release, Orleans County Department of Social Services

ALBION – The Orleans County Department of Social Services Child and Family Services Unit (CFS) hosted its annual Foster Care Family Fun Night last week, where Tim and Kathy Drake were honored as the 2025 Foster Parents of the Year.

“Within the past year, Tim and Kathy have opened their home to several children that have either been placed directly with them or who are provided daycare in their home while the youth’s given foster parents are working,” said Lianna Sheffer, CFS Foster Care & Preventive Supervisor.  “Tim and Kathy have shown empathy to the youth they have had in their care, while also being strong role models for each youth, and advocates for the youths’ wants and wishes. They attend school meetings, and are always willing to assist the caseworkers with transportation for visitation and various other appointments.

 “Tim and Kathy have also gone above and beyond to be a resource and support for biological families and to reinforce the agency goal of safely reuniting families, while making it known to the youth in their care that they will always be a resource for them, whatever the outcome of the case,” Sheffer said. “Orleans County thanks the Drakes for their continued dedication and support to our community.”

The event was organized by CFS’s Homefinder, Lizzy Boring.  Boring has been in the role for three months, providing support to foster and adoptive families, and working on recruiting more foster parents for youth in need.  If you are interested in becoming a foster parent, please contact Boring at 585-589-3161.

BROCKPORT – Zoe Seniuk of Albion, daughter of Denise Johnston-Burris and John “Jack” Burris, graduated summa cum laude on May 17 from SUNY Brockport, receiving her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree.

She will be attending the University of Buffalo School of Law beginning in August of this year.

Editor’s Note: Send news about college graduations and achievements to news@orleanshub.com.

Photo by Tom Rivers: Patrick Olles, left, and Lukas Moore are both certified master technicians from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

Press Release, Pat’s Auto Repair

ALBION – Patrick Olles, owner of Pat’s Auto Repair at 13305 West Lee Rd., recently received ASE Master Technician Certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Olles joins mechanic, Lukas Moore of Pat’s Auto Repair, in earning the ASE master technician certification.

Olles and Moore have both passed exams A1 through A8 in the Automobile and Light Truck test series. Pat’s Auto Repair is an ASE Blue Seal of Excellence-recognized business. Olles opened the auto repair business in 2015.

ASE offers a series of certification exams for professionals specializing in automobile and light truck, collision repair and refinish, medium/heavy truck, truck equipment, school bus, transit bus, alternate fuels, automobile service consultant, undercar specialist, and parts specialist.

Upon passing at least one exam and providing proof of two years of hands-on work experience, a professional becomes ASE certified. Every five years, professionals must be retested to remain certified.

Certified professionals wear blue and white insignia and carry credentials listing their exact areas of expertise; employers display those credentials in the customer service waiting area.

Established in 1972 as a non-profit organization, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is a driving force in the transportation industry. As an independent third party, ASE upholds and promotes high standards of service and repair through assessment, certification and credentialing of current and future industry professionals, and the prestigious ASE Blue Seal logo identifies professionals who possess the essential knowledge and skills to perform with excellence.

Today, there are approximately 250,000 ASE Certified professionals at work in dealerships, independent shops, collision repair shops, auto parts stores, fleets, schools, and colleges throughout the country. For more information about ASE, visit www.ase.com.

Press Release, Orleans County Youth Bureau

ALBION – The Orleans County Youth Bureau is inviting the public to join in celebrating young people, youth workers and youth volunteers who will be honored at the 43rd Annual Youth Recognition Banquet.

The event will take place on Thursday, June 5, at White Birch Golf Course in Lyndonville.  Doors to open at 6 p.m., with the program starting at 6:15 p.m. Tickets are $25 and reservations must be made by May 25.  To register, please email OrleansCountyYouthBureau@OrleansCountyNY.gov or call 585-589-2740.

The 2025 Youth Recognition Awards honor those young people who have performed outstanding service for our community and/or have assumed an extraordinary role within their families by helping to support themselves.  Receiving awards are:

• Morgan Bidwell
• Theresa Biesinger
• Kylee Dann
• Madison Davis
• MacKenzie Fiorito
• Noah Fox
• Grace Goodrich
• Garrett Koch
• Karter May
• Makenzie McGrath
• Christena Molina
• Aidan Oberther
• Hannah Rowland
• Keira Zambito

In addition to the youth recognition awards, Saul Harrison will receive the Helen Brinsmaid Award, given to an Orleans County youth-serving professional, in a paid position, whose work surpasses normal expectations.

Katherine Anderson and Pastor Al Wilson will receive the Eileen Heye Adult Volunteer Recognition Award, presented to an adult who serves the youth of Orleans County in a volunteer setting.

“I hope members of the public will consider joining us at this event as we shine a spotlight on some young people doing some amazing things, as well as honor adults who are dedicated to working with our youth,” said Jack Welch, chief administrative officer for Orleans County.

Press Release, Genesee Community College

Provided photo: Kenadie Patten earned her degree from Genesee Community College on May 17, about a month before she graduates from Albion High School on June 27.

BATAVIA – Genesee Community College celebrated its 57th annual Commencement Ceremony on May 17 with a group of seven students from area high schools and home schools deserving special mention.

They completed their GCC degree requirements concurrently with their high school diplomas or New York State High School Equivalency. These graduates participated in the seventh annual cohort of the Excel Program (formerly Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Enrichment Program) through GCC’s Accelerated College Enrollment (ACE) Office.

These high-achieving individuals include the following: Zoey Berggren (Attica), Jeremiah Childs (Batavia), Paige Harding (Oakfield), Holden Kelly (Perry), Tess McLaughlin (Perry), Kenadie Patten (Albion) and Olivia Swyers (Perry).

The Excel program began in 2012 allowing the students to start their college studies as early as the seventh grade. In addition to their traditional schoolwork, they enrolled in college level coursework each year taking advantage of many academic opportunities and successfully completing all of the rigorous challenges of an associate degree.

“We are extremely proud of these seven exceptional students who have not only earned their high school diplomas but also completed their GCC degree requirements,” said Ann Valento, director of Accelerated College Enrollment programs at GCC. “Their dedication and hard work demonstrate the power of early college enrollment and the opportunities it provides. They are truly an inspiration to future generations of students.”

Kaitlyn Harloff, Excel program coordinator at GCC, added, “This program highlights the remarkable achievements of our students and their ability to excel in demanding academic environments. Their success is a testament to the effectiveness of the Excel Enrichment Program and the commitment of our faculty and staff to support and guide them.”

Genesee Community College’s 57th annual Commencement Ceremony was held at the Richard C. Call Arena and featured special guest Keynote Speaker Kate Welshofer. To view the ceremony, click here.

For more information contact Director of ACE Programs, Ann Valento at (585) 343-0055 x6316, or via email: amvalento@genesee.edu.

MANCHESTER, NH – Southern New Hampshire University congratulates the following students from Orleans County on being named to the Spring 2025 President’s List. The spring terms run from January to May.

Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.700 and above for the reporting term are named to the President’s List.

The students from Orleans County include:

• Andrea Sanchez Vargas of Holley
• Carrie Smith of Albion
• Nordia Campbell of Albion
• Trisha Allen of Lyndonville

Southern New Hampshire University offers approximately 200 undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs, available online and on its 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH.

Lyndonville’s Newsies named ‘Production of the Year’ for small schools in Rochester region

Photos by Tom Rivers: Lyndonville is shown in a scene from Disney’s Newsies. The district won the top award for small schools in the Rochester region for its musical production.

Three school districts in Orleans County were big winners in the annual Stars of Tomorrow program that evaluates and recognizes school musicals in the Rochester region.

Albion, Lyndonville and medina were all recognized for “Excellence in Overall Production” by the Stars of Tomorrow with Lyndonville named the “Production of the Year” among small schools, which included many districts larger than Lyndonville.

The districts were recognized Friday night at the West Herr Auditorium in Rochester. There were 48 schools in Stars of Tomorrow this year, a record high for the Rochester Broadway Theatre League.

Trained evaluators, comprised of performing arts educators and professionals, travel to watch each district’s production. They then provided students and directors with feedback in a variety of categories.

Albion, Lyndonville and Medina all were named “Top 10” Productions of the Year for Small Schools with Lyndonville performing Disney’s Newsies, Albion with Cinderella, and Medina with Mamma Mia!

Mallory Kozody is Cinderella and Zachary Baron is Prince Christopher. They dance a waltz in Albion’s production of Cinderella.

Albion won the following awards:

• Excellence in Overall Production
• Excellence in Acting Ensemble
• Excellence in Vocal Ensemble
• Excellence in Dance Ensemble
• Excellence in Production Crew
• Excellence in Production Design
• Excellence in Student Orchestra (50-74 percent students)
• Achievement in a leading role: Mallory Kozody as Cinderella, Zachary Baron as Christopher, and Ella Trupo as Fairy Godmother.

Amir Huzair plays the lead role of Jack Kelly who leads the newsboys in a strike after the wealthy newspaper owners cut the slim profit margins to the boys.

Lyndonville was recognized with the following awards:

• Production of the Year
• Excellence in Overall Production
• Excellence in Acting Ensemble
• Excellence in Vocal Ensemble
• Excellence in Dance Ensemble
• Excellence in Production Crew
• Excellence in Production Design
• Excellence in Student Orchestra (50-74 percent students)
• Achievement in a leading role: Amir Huzair as Jack Kelly, Noah Fox as Davey, Auston Bentley as Crutchie, and Sarah Corser as Katherine.

Medina performed Mamma Mia! with Madelyn Elliott as Donna, center, joined by Rosie (Lyla Page) and Tanya (Arianna Lake). The three are singing, “Dancing Queen.” The musical includes songs by ABBA.

Medina won the following honors:

• Excellence in Overall Production
• Excellence in Vocal Ensemble
• Excellence in Dance Ensemble
• Excellence in Production Crew
• Excellence in Production Design
• Achievement in a leading role: Lyla Page as Rosie, Madelyn Elliott as Donna, Ava Blount as Sophie, Arianna Lake as Tanya, and Jackson McGrath as Sky.

Kelli Elyse Dingle will travel to DC to see her artwork in US Capitol

Press Release, Congresswoman Claudia Tenney

Kelli Elyse Dingle’s “Fried Eggs” won the Congressional Art Contest for the 24th district. Dingle is a senior at Albion and also a student at the Orleans/Niagara BOCES.

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today named Kelli Elyse Dingle’s “Fried Eggs” as the winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition.

As the winner of the Congressional Art Competition, Kelli Elyse Dingle, a 12th-grade student from Orleans/Niagara BOCES, will be flown to Washington, DC to see her artwork displayed in the halls of the United States Capitol.

This year, Tenney’s office received 30 submissions from 12 different schools for the Congressional Art Contest. Additional awardees include Graciana Allen of Red Creek Central School, second place; Ayden Kaufman of Orleans/Niagara BOCES, third place; Phung Cao of Mynderse Academy, honorable mention; and Kaitlyn Dougherty of Red Creek Central School, honorable mention.

“Congratulations to Kelli Elyse Dingle for being named NY-24’s Congressional Art Competition winner!” Tenney said. “With so many incredible submissions, this is a truly impressive accomplishment.

“I look forward to welcoming Kelli to the Capitol and seeing her artwork, ‘Fried Eggs,’ displayed in the halls of Congress. I want to thank all who participated in this year’s competition and encourage visitors to stop by our DC office to view ‘Fried Eggs’ hanging in the historic halls of Congress, if you are visiting our nation’s Capital.”