achievements

Hall of Fame Santa was proud to serve at Christmas Park in Albion

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 30 June 2016 at 12:00 am

Photo courtesy of Fred Cond – This photo from the late 1950s shows Santa Claus portrayed by the George Cond of Holley with his three sons, Fred Cond, bottom; George Cond III, middle; and Roger Boyce, top.

ALBION – George Cond delighted in making children happy, spending the Christmas holiday season portraying Santa Claus.

“He really liked kids,” his son Fred Cond said. “He prided himself on being Santa Claus.”

The Holley resident in the mid-1950s enrolled in the Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School in Albion. At the time, Cond was working three jobs, but he gave up two of the part-time positions to become Santa. (He quit his job as a cook at a restaurant and a position at Sears, but continued to work as a setup man for the punch press machines at Delco in Rochester.)

Cond was so good at portraying Santa that Charles Howard embraced Cond as the Santa at Christmas Park in Albion, Howard’s entertainment venue at Route 31 on Phipps Road. Christmas Park included a Santa School, toy shop, reindeer, train, motorized swans and other activities.

Charles Howard is pictured as Santa in this program promoting the Santa Claus School, which he started in 1937 in Albion.

Howard is one of the most respected Santas in the world by the men who portray Santa today, even 50 years after Howard’s death. His Santa Claus School was moved from Albion after Howard died in 1966, but the school continues today in Midland, Mich., and still bears Howard’s name.

George Cond also is held in high regard by the Santa community. Next week, Cond will be inducted into the International Santa Claus Hall of Fame during the Santa Convention in Branson, Missouri.

“A student of Howard’s Santa Claus School, Cond assumed the role of Santa at Christmas Park in late 1950s and continued until the close of the park in 1966,” according to the Hall of Fame. “With Howard busy as the Executive Director and away on business during the Christmas Season, Cond handled most of the day-to-day Santa appearances throughout the park. He appeared in and around the Western New York State region on behalf of Christmas Park.”

Fred Cond keeps one of his father’s business cards, noting his service as Santa Claus.

Cond worked as the Santa at Christmas Park for about a decade and many of the photos from that time, showing kids with a Santa at Christmas Park, actually are more likely to show Cond as Santa than Howard. Fred can tell the photos of his father.

George Cond injured his right hand and two of his fingers seemed to be permanently “frozen” in a bent position. Many of the photos from Christmas Park show a Santa waving, with middle and ring fingers in that bent position. That’s a giveaway that Cond is wearing the red suit, not Howard.

Cond wasn’t the only family member to work for Howard at Christmas Park. Cond’s wife Elaine also worked there and Fred would help as an elf.

Fred, now 63, remembers when as a boy he was asked to bring lunch to Santa. Fred carried the meal over to Santa, who was on break. Fred discovered his father in the Santa suit without the beard and wig. It was the first time Fred realized his father portrayed Santa.

“My father told me that Santa can’t be there all the time,” Fred recalled at his home in Brockport. “He said, ‘I’m helping Santa out. I’m helping him take some of the orders.'”

Fred Cond holds his father’s Santa suit, which was originally worn by Charles Howard. The suit, No. 191, bears Howard’s initials. Fred now wears the suit when he portrays Santa. (All of the suits made at Christmas Park were individually numbered.)

When Howard died, the fate of Christmas Park was uncertain. George Cond wanted to buy it and keep it viable for years. But he was outbid by an out-of-town buyer. Christmas Park didn’t last long without Howard.

Fred Cond wishes Christmas Park could have continued.

“If it was still around today, it would be bigger than Darien,” Cond said. “Charlie Howard was a very clever man.”

After Christmas Park closed, Cond continued to portray Santa for local families, schools, churches, and other venues. He was the Santa for Kodak.

He was asked to follow Howard as the Santa in the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving parade, but Cond declined out of respect for Howard.

“In his mind, Charles Howard was always Santa Claus,” Fred Cond said.

His father died in 1996. He was an active Santa until the late 1980s. The Santa Claus Hall of Fame induction is a pleasant surprise for his family, Fred Cond said.

The Santa suit used by George Cond was originally Charles Howard’s suit. It bears Howard’s initials. The wing and beard are made of yak hair.

Fred Cond continues the Santa legacy in the family. Fred first portrayed Santa as an 18-year-old at the former Ames in Albion. He continues to be Santa every Christmas season, mostly wearing the suit for friend and family.

His wife Debbie said Fred is changed every year when he brings out the Santa suit.

“Once he puts on that suit, the Christmas spirit invades him,” Debbie said.

Fred said Howard’s family has asked if he would be willing to give up the suit, but Cond said it is too important to him and the Cond family.

“There are very few things I have of my dad,” Fred said. “This was part of my life, growing up with my dad. He was a big part of Christmas Park. He was hand-picked by Charles Howard to play Santa, and my dad did it because of his love for the kids.”

This document shows Cond’s enrollment papers for the Charles Howard Santa Claus School in Albion in October 1958.

Charles Howard signed the enrollment papers for Cond in red ink.

Each student at the school received a red folder from the “Santa Claus School” in Albion, NY. Fred Cond has many of his father’s papers from when he attended the school.

Journey of ability passes through Orleans today along towpath

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 28 June 2016 at 12:00 am

ALBION – John Robinson and Doug Hamlin are riding the Erie Canal Towpath today through Orleans County, part of a 350-mile-plus journey along the Erie Canal Towpath.

The two men are using adaptive use bicycles to make the trip for the fourth straight year. Robinson and Hamlin make the long ride to highlight inclusivity, showing that people with disabilities are capable of big accomplishments.

“People with disabilities want to work, they want a family, they have hopes and dreams just like everybody,” Robinson said at about noon today while taking a short break by the canal bridge on Keitel Road.

Robinson is a congenital amputee without full arms and legs. He overcame countless obstacles to become a successful businessman, husband, father and inspirational speaker.

He is pictured with his wife Andrea today on the canal in the Town of Albion.

Robinson was inspired to undertake the first Journey Along the Erie Canal in 2013 by his wife and two children after receiving a three-wheeled, hand-operated cycle as a donation. His family helped him learn how to ride and then train for the statewide journey.

Doug Hamlin and his wife Pam are making the ride together. Hamlin uses a specialized hand cycle for the ride.

“If we can inspire one person to ride an extra mile it will have been worth it,” Hamlin said.

Robinson and Hamlin are partners in Glenmont-based Our Ability, a network of consulting, public speaking, recruitment and professional services that champions the inclusivity of people with disabilities in the workplace.

They are using the trip from Buffalo to Albany to celebrate launch of New York Business Leadership Network, a coalition among businesses in New York State interested in both hiring and building supplier diversity of businesses owned by individuals with disabilities.

Today is day 3 of the ride. The cyclists started in Medina at the Prospect Avenue Lift Bridge this morning and are going 32 miles east to Spencerport. To see the schedule, click here.

Hamlin, Robinson and the group of cyclists are off after a short break by the Keitel Road canal bridge. The trip ends on July 8 in Albany.

Deputy DeFilipps recognized by 1,100 law enforcement officers at Policeman’s Ball in Rochester

Staff Reports Posted 28 June 2016 at 12:00 am

Provided photo, Badge of Honor Association

ROCHESTER – Jim DeFilipps, an Orleans County deputy, addresses 1,100 law enforcement officers on June 18 during the Policeman’s Ball in Rochester.

DeFillipps, the 2015 New York State Deputy of the Year, was one of three law enforcement officers involved in critical incidents who were recognized by the Badge of Honor Association. DeFilipps was honored for going “above and beyond the call of duty.”

DeFilipps was shot twice in a shootout at 3 a.m. on March 21 following a high-speed chase with James Ellis of Wyoming County. DeFilipps was the first police officer on scene when Ellis wrecked his vehicle in Clarendon on Route 31A.

Police were pursuing Ellis after a 911 call when he threatened an ex-girlfriend in Shelby with a gun. Ellis had fled to a nearby wooded area in Clarendon and opened fire on DeFilipps and other deputies and police to arrive on the scene.

DeFilipps, despite getting hit twice by gunfire, shot Ellis, killing him and ending his threat. For his acts of valor, DeFilipps was named Deputy of the Year for 2015 by the New York State Sheriff’s Association.

Albion Rotarian is new District Governor for Rotary

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 27 June 2016 at 12:00 am

Marlee Diehl will lead 2,300 Rotarians in 69 clubs

Photo by Tom Rivers

ALBION – Marlee Diehl, a member of the Albion Rotary Club, was installed as the new District Governor for Rotary on Sunday, leading 69 clubs in Western New York and Southern Ontario.

About 100 people from the two countries attended the District Governor changeover celebration on Sunday at Tillman’s Village Inn. Diehl succeeds Kevin Crosby, a Lockport resident and member of the Buffalo Sunrise Club.

There are about 2,300 Rotarians in the district known as the “Best of Friends” District, the first district that included Rotary clubs in two countries.

Crosby said membership in the district held steady overall in 2015-16. The district is losing the Rotary Club in the Tonawandas after 99 years but is adding one in Hamliton.

Diehl said all of the clubs are different with their own strengths. She and Crosby unveiled the theme for Rotary in 2016-17: “Serving Humanity.”

Diehl addresses the crowd Sunday at the Village Inn, where the Albion Rotary Club has its regular weekly meetings on Thursdays at 12:15 p.m.

Diehl and her husband attended the Rotary International Convention in Seoul, Korea, on May 27 to June 1. She said she is honored to be District Governor on the centennial of the Rotary Foundation, which directs money to international aid efforts.

Diehl, a Waterport resident, has been active in many district events and committees, helping to plan and lead district conferences and training sessions. She served as assistant district governor for three years.

She has been active in Rotary since 1994, when she joined a club in Hamilton, Ontario. Diehl’s husband Bill is twice a past president of the Albion Rotary Club. They met at a Rotary conference in Toronto in 2009, when they were both at a training session for incoming Rotary presidents.

As district governor, Diehl said her focus will be celebrating Rotarians, especially those with a long commitment to helping their communities.

For about 35 years she worked as a recruiter, helping companies find executives and leaders in management. While connecting with business leaders, she noticed many wore Rotary pins or had Rotary posters on their walls.

When she was looking for an outlet for community service, she turned to Rotary and joined the Hamilton club in 1994. She is also active at the First Presbyterian Church in Albion and the Oak Orchard Neighborhood Association.

Albion woman organizing WNY film and arts fest at GCC

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 24 June 2016 at 12:00 am

Rhonda Parker

ALBION – An Albion woman who produced and directed her first film in 2014 – “Friends Don’t Let Friends – Date Friends” – is organizing a new film and arts festival at Genesee Community College in August.

Rhonda Parker won several awards in 2014 at a Buffalo film festival. She has met many directors, producers and actors in the Western New York film circle in the past three years since she took up directing and producing films while a student at GCC.

“I didn’t know there were so many actors and films in Western New York,” Parker said. “This festival will be a chance to bring the Rochester and Buffalo film communities together.”

Parker said the two communities each have their own film culture, with Buffalo tending to be more prolific in producing films while Rochester’s film community is more technical-focused.

Parker and her husband Mark created Beaver Alley Studios, a non-profit organization last year. Since their debut film they have produced “Lonely Bananas,” which will be screened during the Western New York F.A.M.E. (Film, Art and Music Event). That film will be shown at 6 p.m. on Aug. 14, capping the three-day festival that starts Aug. 12. The Parkers also have produced “Message in a Bottle.”

Parker and Beaver Alley Studios are planning FAME with the Genesee Community College Center for the Arts. In addition to screening films, the festival will feature music performances, art displays, a photography contest, educational workshops, vendors, networking and “edgy comedy.”

Parker said the festival has generated buzz in the two film communities.

“As film makers, FAME understands the burden of high festival fees and the frustration of low audience turn out,” she said in a news release. “The group keeps fees low and has created an event with mass appeal. The festival treats film makers, musicians and artists like celebrities with an audience Q&A or panel discussion and encourages active audience participation by allowing attendees to choose some of the awards.”

File photo – Rhonda Parker, center right, is pictured in November 2014 with some of the cast and crew of “Friends Don’t Let Friends – Date Friends.” The group includes, front row, from left: Amelia Favata (Della) and Rhonda Parker (writer/director). Back row: Mark Parker (Director of photography/editor), Eric Witkowski (Jeff), Erin Stamp (Gwen), Casey Litzenberger (Allison) and Adam S. Dixson (Kyle).

Parker earned her degree from GCC with a double major in paralegal studies and communications. She wants to promote the local film and artistic talent, particularly the women artists.

Aug. 12 will feature scary films, while Aug. 13 will showcase “Girl Power” with films by female writers/directors or strong female leads. Aug. 14 will feature family-friendly films and others produced in WNY.

The mid-August festival at GCC has already received nearly 300 film, music and photography entries from all over the world. The organization is also seeking workshop presenters, sponsors and vendors. Vendor tables cost $100 for three days, but are discounted to $75 if booked by June 30. Tickets for the event are available on a per-block or workshop basis all the way to full VIP all-access. For more information on the schedule, tickets and the festival, click here.

“We are very excited about hosting an event like no other,” Parker said. “Three days of regional and international films, performances from local singers and songwriters, art displays, educational workshops-and of course, the all-important networking giving all attendees the opportunity to explore, exchange and share ideas and inspiring artists to continue their work.”

Legislature recognizes teens for saving life of man who drove into lake

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 23 June 2016 at 12:00 am

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – Orleans County legislators Lynne Johnson and John DeFillips, left, present “Special Recognition Awards” to local teen-agers for saving the life of a man on May 26 who drove into Lake Ontario at Golden Hill State Park in Barker.

The teens include, from left: Alex Plummer, Josh Tombari and Hayden London (as well as Matt Scroger, not pictured). They were invited to Wednesday’s Orleans County Legislature meeting. They are joined by Lt. Patrick Rindsleisch of the Niagara County Sheriff’s Department, second from right, and Orleans County Sheriff Randy Bower.

The teens went fishing at Golden State Park in Barker on Thursday and likely saved the life of a man who drove into the lake. They boys were fishing by the inlet at the state park. They heard an engine roar and then a big splash in the water.

They ran to the lake and saw a green van pointed down in the water. The front was submerged. Another man was standing near the shore and told the teens a man was inside the van.

London and Plummer each grabbed big rocks. London took off his shirt and dove in the water. He saw a man who appeared to be elderly inside, hitting at the window trying to get out.

London smashed the driver’s window with a rock. Water came rushing inside the van, London told the Orleans Hub on May 27, a day after the rescue. London put his shirt on the window, to protect the man from the broken glass. London and Plummer then pulled the man out of the van.

Hayden London, right, accepts the “Special Recognition Award” from Legislator John DeFilipps.

Rindsleisch said the man is likely doing well today because there hasn’t been any reports of injuries. He couldn’t provide more information because of confidentiality laws. But he did say the boys deserve praise for their actions on May 26.

Legislators called London, a junior at Lyndonville, “an extraordinary human being” for his selfless actions after a man had driven into the lake.

“Your quick thought and immediate action, with a rock in your hand, saved this life,” legislators said in the award for London. “By going above and beyond and risking your own life to save another, the Orleans County Legislature has a renewed sense that people are willing to help others in times of need. This will forever be remembered and extremely appreciated.”

“The Orleans County Legislature does hereby commend you for your heroism and is proud and grateful that you are a citizen of Orleans County.”

Sheriff Bower also presented the boys with T-shirts with a message about the importance of forward-thinking.

Bower, a former youth coach, said he always preached to his players to be prepared and to be thinking ahead.

“We applaud you for what you did,” Bower told the teens.

Cyclist without full arms or legs will again ride the length of canal

Staff Reports Posted 23 June 2016 at 12:00 am

John Robinson starts trip on Sunday

File photos by Tom Rivers – John Robinson is pictured last June 30 on his third ride along the Erie Canal, going 363 miles from Buffalo to Albany. He is pictured with his wife Andrea. They are close to the Main Street lift bridge in Albion.

John Robinson and his friend Doug Hamlin are again riding the Erie Canal towpath to highlight inclusivity, showing that people with disabilities are capable of big feats.

Robinson and Hamlin also are using the trip from Buffalo to Albany to celebrate launch of New York Business Leadership Network, a coalition among businesses in New York State interested in both hiring and building supplier diversity of businesses owned by individuals with disabilities.

John Robinson meets with people with disabilities last June 30 when he stopped at The Arc of Orleans County.

Robinson and Hamlin will spend 12 days riding bicycles about 350 miles across upstate New York via the historic Erie Canalway Trail. The two men are partners in Glenmont-based Our Ability, a network of consulting, public speaking, recruitment and professional services that champions the inclusivity of people with disabilities in the workplace.

“Each year our journey aims to raise awareness of the ability inside all people with disabilities,” said Robinson. “Along the way, we will connect with athletes and other individuals with disabilities and promote inclusive tourism along the historic Erie Canal.”

Robinson was a congenital amputee without full arms and legs. He overcame countless obstacles to become a successful businessman, husband, father and inspirational speaker.

In 2011 he founded Our Ability (click here for more information) with Hamlin, a 28-year veteran of the software industry who is also disabled as the result of an accident in 1983. At Our Ability they help to mentor and inspire people with disabilities through positive video stories. In 2014, Robinson was one of 10 people nationally named a White House Champion of Change for Disability Employment.

The New York Business Leadership Network was formed by Our Ability in December of 2015 in response to Governor Andrew Cuomo’s 2014 executive order establishing the Employment First Commission to create employment opportunities for people with disabilities in New York. The executive order calls for 100 businesses to commit to formal policies to hire people with disabilities as part of their diversity strategy.

“NYBLN’s dual goals are to inspire those individuals with disabilities to achieve their dreams through education and employment as well as to educate able-bodied individuals about the differences in ability around us,” Robinson said.

John Robinson, left, and his friend Doug Hamlin, right, ride adaptive use bicycles along West Bank Street in Albion in this photo from July 1, 2014.

This year’s canal trip begins in Buffalo’s Canal Side Park and concludes on July 8 at Jennings Landing in Albany. As the tour makes its way across New York, numerous advocacy groups and organizations supporting the rights of people with disabilities will join Robinson and Hamlin for parts of the trip.

Robinson was inspired to undertake the first Journey Along the Erie Canal by his wife, Andrea, and two children after receiving a three-wheeled, hand-operated cycle as a donation. His family helped him learn how to ride and then train for the statewide journey. Hamlin joined Robinson that first year and saw what the ride could symbolize. He will once again ride alongside Robinson on his own specialized hand cycle.

As in past years, Our Ability’s partners for the journey include New York State Industries for the Disabled, Inc. (NYSID), New York State Canal Corporation, the Disability Education Forum of New York, Inc., the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor, and NYSARC, Inc.

“The New York State Canal Corporation is thrilled to partner with Our Ability for the fourth annual Journey Along the Erie Canal,” said Canal Corporation Director Brian Stratton. “John and Doug are an inspiration to us all. Their message of inclusion and support can be extended to all facets of life and across all borders. We are proud that once again the Erie Canal and Canalway Trail will serve as the background of such a worthy cause.”

Albion Alumni Foundation gives nearly $52K in scholarships

Posted 21 June 2016 at 12:00 am

Photos courtesy of Kim Pritt – Adam Burlison and his mother, Lisa Burlison, present the Wayne A. Burlison Memorial Scholarship to Zachary Shaffer. This scholarship honors Adam’s father, Wayne Burlison, a former elementary school music teacher at Albion. Meredith Patterson also was awarded a Burlison scholarship.

Press Release, Albion High School Alumni Foundation

ALBION – The Albion High School Alumni Foundation takes great pride in making a difference for a lifetime for the Albion Central School District community – alumni, students, teachers, and friends. The main focus of the Foundation is a Scholarship Program that continues to grow and benefit more students each and every year.

Each year at the Class Night celebration, the Foundation presents scholarships to graduating seniors who meet the criteria of each specific scholarship. These awards provide financial assistance so that our bright young scholars may continue their educational goals and be successful in their future endeavors.

The funding for the scholarships are made possible through memberships and gifts from AHS Alumni, as well as individuals or organizations that contact the Foundation to establish a scholarship. The Foundation manages the funds and awards the scholarships annually during the Class Night event, along with other scholarships that are awarded that evening.

This year, the Foundation awarded 24 scholarships to 32 students, totaling $51,650.

Elizabeth Goff accepts the A.B. “Dick” Eddy “Service Above Self” Scholarship presented by Foundation President Chris Haines.

Here are the results of the 2016 scholarships managed and awarded by the Albion HS Alumni Foundation.

Albion High School Alumni Foundation Scholarships ($1,500 each): This year’s recipients are Daniel Beam, McKayla Hastings, Kyle Thaine, and Mikayla Yaskulski.

Paul R. Haines Memorial Scholarship ($1,500): This year’s recipient is Meredith Patterson.

Smith Foundation Challenge ($1,000): These scholarships are awarded annually by the Foundation to students entering the second year of college. This year’s recipients are Charlyne Olick and Brittany Francis.

Saint-Gobain Technical Fabrics Scholarship ($1,000): This year’s recipient is Randal Eblacker.

Elizabeth Balcom Smith Scholarship ($500): This year’s recipient is Matthew DeCarlo.

Golden Performance Award ($500): This year’s recipient is Elijah VanEpps.

Jim and Susie Fraser Health Careers Scholarship ($500): This year’s recipient is Kassidy Hastings.

Dr. Lee Minier Science Scholarship ($500): This year’s recipient is Miranda Allen.

Albion Alumni Foundation Performing Arts Scholarship ($1,000): This year’s recipient is Zachary Shaffer.

Madeline Gibbs receives her award and a hug from Mrs. Karen Sodoma, retired Albion teacher and wife of Ronald Sodoma, retired Superintendant of Albion Central Schools. The Ronald L. Sodoma Memorial Scholarship is one of four scholarships added to the Foundation’s Scholarship Program in 2016 and honors Sodoma, who passed away in April 2015.

Coach Richard Diminuco Scholarship for Athletic Excellence ($1,500): This year’s recipient is Kyle Smith.

Harry W. Salchak Science Scholarship ($2,500): This year’s recipient is Miranda Allen.

A.B. “Dick” Eddy “Service Above Self” Scholarship ($1,250): This year’s recipient is Elizabeth Goff.

The Nancy Elaine LaGamba Scholarship ($1,000): This year’s recipient is Bethany Bowman.

The Dr. Paul Mahany Family Scholarships ($2,500 each): This year’s recipients are Cheyenna Eagle, Meghan Hurley, Chlow Weis, and Raven White.

Hoag Scholarships ($10,000 each): This year’s recipient for the Engineering Scholarship is Matthew Flanagan. The Chemical Engineering Scholarship was not awarded this year.

Panek Family Farm Agriculture Scholarship ($1,000): This year’s recipient is Sarah Kuehne.

The Rex and Marilyn Horton Scholarship ($500): This year’s recipient is Allyson Irwin.

The Wayne A. Burlison Memorial Scholarship ($500 each): This year’s recipients are Meredith Patterson and Zachary Shaffer.

Glassner Family Scholarship ($1,400): This year’s recipient is Sarah Graham.

John Panek Scholarship ($2,000): This year’s recipient is Kelsee Soule.

The next four scholarships are new to the Foundation’s Scholarship Program in 2016.

Ronald L. Sodoma Memorial Scholarship ($1,500): This year’s recipient is Madeline Gibbs.

Masonic Renovation Lodge # 97 Scholarship ($750): This year’s recipient is Jason Downs.

Edward B. Archbald Memorial Scholarship ($1,250): This year’s recipient is Kyle Smith.

David R. Long Agricultural Scholarship ($2,500): This year’s recipient is Kelsee Soule.

To view more photos and to learn how you can be a part of making a difference for a lifetime for Albion students, visit www.AlbionAlumni.org.

Holley, Kendall school officials to meet July 18 to discuss shared services

By Kristina Gabalski, Correspondent Posted 21 June 2016 at 12:00 am

Photo by Kristina Gabalski – Rubie Maxwell, a Holley sixth grader, stands with Holley Elementary School Principal Karri Schiavone after receiving a Soaring to New Heights Award at the Holley Board of Education meeting Monday evening. Maxwell has volunteered as the Pre-K Safety Patrol Officer, helping students on and off the bus each day. The students call her “Miss Rubie,” Schiavone said. “She takes time out of her day to help out. The Pre-K students love her.” Top Ten graduates of this year’s Senior Class were also recognized during the Soaring to New Heights portion of the meeting.

HOLLEY – School leaders from Holley and Kendall will meet July 18 to discuss shared services, including instruction, non-instruction and extra-curricular programs.

Robert D’Angelo, Holley school district superintendent, reported to the Holley Board of Education on Monday that he and School Board President Brenda Swanger met recently with Kendall School Superintendent Julie Christensen and Kendall School Board President Nadine Hanlon. They are planning the agenda for the July 18 work session between the two boards, administrations and teams.

Swanger said neither district wants to lose its identity, and D’Angelo emphasized he sees nothing but good coming from the effort.

“We want to share, not swallow each other up,” D’Angelo said.

The districts already share some programs. For example, Kendall students played on the Holley varsity baseball team this season after Kendall didn’t have enough players to field a team.

In other discussion at Monday’s meeting, Board of Education members say they have not yet made a decision regarding the number of teachers for next year’s third graders.

Several parents spoke during the public comment portion of Monday evening’s meeting, expressing concerns that the district might reduce the number of third grade teachers from four to three.

Two third grade teachers are leaving – the board accepted the resignation of one teacher and the retirement of another – but board members say they are not yet ready to make a decision about how they will proceed.

“We don’t have to decide until it’s absolutely necessary,” Board Vice President Robin Silvis said. “We have a lot to think about.”

Board member John Heise said if next year’s third grade was reduced to three teachers, it would be a way for the district to save money.

“The fund balance has gone down,” he said. “We’ve got to start saving somewhere.”

Swanger, the Board president, said she did not agree.

“We haven’t made a decision … it’s not going to be an easy decision,” she said. She and other Board members thanked parents for attending the meeting and making their feelings on the subject known.

Board members indicated they would likely make the decision in August. Incoming third graders will not have their teacher named on Fourth Quarter reports cards to be sent home on Wednesday.

Board members also approved the creation of an Interact Club, a community service club which will be sponsored by the Holley Rotary. A number of students are interested, and board member John Heise, a Holley Rotarian, said students would like to get going this summer on projects.

Heise said students have already begun looking into installing a “buddy bench” on the playground at the Elementary School as a potential first project. The club would be open to students in grades 7-12.

Hospice recognizes key volunteers, supporters

Posted 21 June 2016 at 12:00 am

Provided photos – Mary Ann Tillman, right, accepts the Hospice of Orleans ‘Volunteer of the Year’ from Christine Fancher, Hospice Social Worker and Volunteer Coordinator.

Press Release, Hospice of Orleans
MEDINA – Hospice of Orleans recently held its annual meeting and volunteer appreciation luncheon at the United Methodist Church of Medina.

Referred to as “the backbone” of the organization by Hospice Social Worker and Volunteer Coordinator Chris Fancher, the volunteers were reported to have served over 5,500 volunteer hours.

Stories of the duties carried out by the special people that give their time to fulfill them were shared. These people include a volunteer that drives in from Rochester, retired nurses that help sanitize equipment and a gentleman that does the shopping for the Martin-Linsin residence twice a week.

Of all of the amazing volunteers that serve, Mary Ann Tillman was awarded Volunteer of the Year for her service in the residence with scheduling, for her participation in every Hospice fundraiser and event, and for her time spent with patients and keeping the gardens at Hospice.

She was described as a “kind and gentle person that unassumingly gets things done.” Hospice is so grateful for Mary Ann Tillman and each of the volunteers that have deemed it a worthy cause and choose to bring joy, comfort and compassion each time that they serve.

The organization also recognized the following:

Business/Civic Award: Presented to Matt Davis and Carol Murphy on behalf of the Don Davis dealership in Albion for being an integral part of Hospice’s Golf Tournament, which is celebrating its 20th year this summer.

Mary Lou Tuohey of Medina graciously accepted the Mary Janet Sahukar award for her contribution to and advocacy of Hospice services. The award is named for Hospice’s founding director.

Kendall Lions Club recognizes members for dedicated service

Staff Reports Posted 17 June 2016 at 8:00 am

Provided Photo – Pictured from left: Eric Maxon, Pat Bolton, Jeff Rodas and Helen Unterborn.

The Kendall Lions Club held its annual Officer Installation and Awards Dinner on Thursday at the Kendall Fire Hall. Members were recognized for their years of service, new members were welcomed and a slide show of our year in pictures was presented.

In addition four awards were presented to members of our club. The Ray Ernenwein Lion of the Year Award was presented to Lion Eric Maxon. The Robert J Uplinger Award for distinguished service to Lions and the Community was awarded to Patrick Bolton. Two Lions were named Melvin Jones Fellows, the highest honor that can be bestowed on a Lion. Lion Jeff Rodas and club secretary Lion Helen Unterborn were recognized for their service to the club and community.

Medina Band honors students and staff, announces leaders for 2016-17

Posted 14 June 2016 at 12:00 am

Provided photo – The 2016-2017 student staff for the Medina Mustang Band include: Drum Major – Madison Holland; Assistant Drum Majors – Kyla Leno, Jadiel Flores Medina; Flute Section Leader – Sarah Granchelli; Clarinet – Brianna Meyers; Saxophone – Alyssa Beyer & Brigid Keller; Mellos – Kristian Snyder; Trumpets – Abigail Griffin; Trombones – William Bellan; Tuba – JP Pietrafesa; Front Ensemble – Nicole Waild; Head Band Manager – Victoria Schicker; Band Managers – Kody Leno, Toby Kiebala, Ray Paull, Ben Zakes; Attendance Officer – Emma Baldwin; Uniform Manager – Devin Hogan & Emily Green; Secretary/Librarian – Shelby Green & Madison Kenward; Colorguard Captain – Alexis Neuman; Assistant CG; Captain – LeAnn Schneider; Colorguard Managers – Kaela Grosslinger, Shianne Sullinger, Mikayla Soha; and Head of Percussion – Jacob Houseman.

Press Release, Medina Marching Band

RIDGEWAY – The 45th annual Medina Mustang Band Banquet & Awards Ceremony was held Saturday at the Ridgeway Fire Hall. It was an evening of awards and reflection on the many accomplishments in the 2015-2016 year.

Special guests included Michael Cavanagh, the High School Principal and Wendi Pencille, President of the Board of Education. Terry Steele gave the invocation and special thanks went out to Trisha Laszewski for chairing the Banquet Committee.

The Booster organization was credited for their continued dedication and commitment to the band program. Outgoing officers were recognized and thanked for their help as well as the incoming officers. The “Harry Dinkle Award” was established to recognize someone who is not a Booster Officer but who volunteers a great deal of personal time and effort to the program. This year’s recipient was Frank Laszewski.

Instructional Staff were recognized: Drill & Marching – Jeanette Sheliga; Percussion- Jeff Pask & TJ Gray; Pit Instructor – Terry Steele; Colorguard Design & Instructors – Vinnie Monacelli & Kristen Costa; Assistant Band Director & Colorguard Instructor – Diana Baker; Assistant Band Director – Becky Botsford; Music Arrangers – Jerry Kelsey & Joe Organisciak; Percussion Instructors – Joe Guadagnino & Brian King.

The New York State Field Band Conference Scholarship was awarded to Amanda Lunden. The Mustang Band Service Scholarship was given to Andrea Toussaint. The Mustang Band Booster Memorial Scholarship was given to Alex Peters.

The Steele Family Award was established in January 2016 by Jonathan Seiler (Mrs. Steele’s brother). This award is given to a Senior who has given their best efforts for the betterment of the program throughout their years of participation. This year’s award was given to Andrea Toussaint.

The Joseph C. McKain Award is given to a junior and a senior to recognize their dedication and commitment to the Medina Mustang Band. This year’s recipients are William Bellan (junior) and Megan Furness (senior).

The Alfred Hartway Drum Major Award was started in 1968 in honor of a man who was a bus driver and always involved with the band. This year’s recipients are Amanda Lunden, Andrea Toussaint and Tristan Sanders and their names will be engraved on the plaque that hangs in the band room.

The New York State School Music Association Solo Festival was held in April in Penfield, and it was the third year that Medina participated. The elementary school sent 22 students, and there were 32 from the middle school and 35 from the high school. Overall they achieved scores ranging from Good, Outstanding, Excellent, A and A+.

Outstanding Band Members Awards were given in three categories: Outstanding Rookie went to Lacey Kenward, Emma Leonard, Jimmy Bieliski and McKenna Callard. Most Improved went to Chris Woodroe, Emory Seefeldt, Noah Pencille and Haley Hurt. Most Valuable went to Abby Griffin, Madison Holland, Tristan Sanders and Brittanie Goodin.

Director Awards given by Mr. Steele to Tyler Soha and Meghan Allen; given by Mrs. Botsford to Mark Barcena; given by Mrs. Baker to Grace Fuller.

Attendance Awards are given to students who have perfect attendance in fall, spring and both. Service Awards are given to students who had between 6 to 12 seasons of participation in the program. Graduating Seniors are given their medallions.

The Junior Prologue was given by Kristen Snyder and the Senior Epilogue by Amanda Lunden. A slide show of the years events was prepared by Joe Granchelli and the assistance of Mike Dreyfus, Greg Nellist and many parents who submitted pictures.

While this school year is coming to a close and the fall competitive season doesn’t begin until September, the band will hold its first rehearsal June 22 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm.

Medina band wins several 1st place awards at Gorham

Posted 8 June 2016 at 12:00 am

Provided photo – Seniors in the Medina Marching Band hold some of the trophies the band won during the 55th Gorham Band Pageant.

Courtesy of Medina Marching Band

MEDINA – The Marcus Whitman Central School District held its 55th Gorham Band Pageant June 3-4 with 16 schools participating, including eight in the parade.

Medina’s Middle and High School jazz bands took 1st place. Medina’s Middle School concert band and the High School Wind Ensemble also won 1st.

There was no grand champion this year, but the bands were divided into 3 classes and each had a class champion with Medina winning first from medium-sized schools. Other winners include: Small school, South Seneca; Large, Baldwinsville.

Medina also won awards for best color guard, best HS jazz soloist with Medina’s 2 trombone players, Kyla Leno and Meghan Allen; best jazz brass and rhythm and woodwinds.

The Robert Steele award was started in 1994 and named after Jim Steele’s father who was the band director in Gorham for 37 years and started this pageant. This year’s recipient was Kimberly Lyons, a Marcus Whitman booster.

The Medina Band program is under the direction of Jim Steele and assisted by Rebecca Botsford. The official end of this season is marked by the band banquet on June 11.

Santa Hall of Fame to induct Christmas Park Santa from Albion

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 8 June 2016 at 12:00 am

George Cond

ALBION – In 2010 the International Santa Claus Hall of Fame was established in Santa Claus, Ind. The inaugural class included Charles W. Howard, the Albion resident who started a Santa Claus School in 1937. He ran that school until his death in 1966.

Each year, a new class of Santas are inducted into the Hall of Fame and the 2015 group includes another Santa from Albion: George Cond. He portrayed Santa at Christmas Park, which was developed by Howard on Phipps Road by the Santa Claus School.

Cond will be formally inducted into the Santa Claus Hall of Fame next month during a Santa Convention in Branson, Missouri. The convention was in Albion last year. The event will be in Branson from July 6-10 and about 1,000 Santas from around the world are expected. (Click here for more on the Santa conference in Branson.)

A committee reviews nominations for the Santa Hall of Fame and Cond was selected. He joins a Hall of Fame class that includes Ed Asner, who played Santa on the big screen. (Click here for more on the new Hall of Fame inductees.)

Ed Asner

Cond was born in 1925 and lived until 1996. He is best known as the man who portrayed Santa Claus at Charles W. Howard’s Christmas Park in Albion, according to Cond’s Hall of Fame announcement.

Phil Wenz is spokesman for the Hall of Fame. He also was in the inaugural Hall of Fame class and portrays Santa full-time throughout the year at Santa’s Village Theme Park in Dundee, Illinois. Wenz also coordinated the convention in Albion last year.

“George Cond probably played Santa in Albion more than Charlie Howard,” Wenz said in an interview. “George was the day-to-day operational Santa. Charlie was a national star and George was more local. But to be Charlie’s hand chosen Santa that had to be a great honor.”

Cond also modeled Santa Claus suits for the Santa Claus Suit and Equipment Company owner Elizabeth W. Babcock in the 1970s and 1980s. Cond continued to make special Santa appearances to local families and events through the 1990s.

(Editor’s note: If anyone has pictures of Cond as Santa, please send them to news@orleanshub.com.)

Orleans County administrator named VP of state-wide association

Staff Reports Posted 7 June 2016 at 12:00 am

Photo by Tom Rivers – Chuck Nesbitt, chief administrative officer for Orleans County, is pictured outside the County Clerks’ office this afternoon. He is in line to be president of the New York Association of Counties.

ALBION – Orleans County Chief Administrative Officer Chuck Nesbitt was elected last week to serve on the executive committee of the New York State Association of Counties as 2nd Vice President.

NYSAC is a bipartisan municipal association serving all 62 counties of New York State including the City of New York. Organized in 1925, NYSAC’s mission is to represent, educate, advocate for, and serve member counties and the thousands of elected and appointed county officials who serve the public.

“I am honored to be elected to serve on the NYSAC Executive Committee by such a distinguished group of county leaders from across the state,” Nesbitt said. “There are many common challenges that we face as we move ahead and I look forward to assuming my new role on the NYSAC board as 2nd Vice President, and to doing my part to address issues going forward.”

Nesbitt has served as the Orleans County chief administrative officer for the past decade and has been an at-large member of the NYSAC Board of Director since 2014. He was elected as the president of the NYS County Administrators’ Association in 2008 and has served in that capacity since then.

As Chief Administrative Officer, Nesbitt acts on behalf of the County Legislature and works closely with Orleans County Legislature Chairman David Callard to implement county policy and overseeing the activities of all county departments. He also serves as the county’s budget officer.

“Orleans County is extremely proud of our Chief Administrative Officer being elected to the NYSAC Executive Committee as 2nd Vice President,” Callard said. “This is a great testament to our commitment to NYSAC and our shared cause as well as Chuck Nesbitt’s dedication to bringing a new level of professionalism to the Orleans County government. NYSAC is a first class organization that does a tremendous job fighting for counties and we think Chuck will be a real asset in the fight.”

Nesbitt said he expects the association will continue to press state legislators and governor for mandate relief, easing the burden on counties to pay for state programs.

He said NYSAC has been an effective advocacy organization for counties, and the group values the opinions from counties of all sizes. He will assume presidency of NYSAC in September 2019 after serving as second vice president, first vice president and then president-elect.

“Chuck is a highly regarded county leader, and his experience will provide added value to the deliberations of the board,” said NYSAC President William E. Cherry, the Schoharie County Treasurer.