Saturday was a great day for both the Albion and Medina marching bands at the Seneca Falls Pageant of Bands. Both were awarded first place awards.
The Medina Marching Band, pictured above, took first place in Senior High Class B Concert Band, first for its Cadet Guard and Varsity Guard, and first place in the parade for marching band in Division B, while also earning the parade’s Class Champion in Division B and overall Grand Champion.
Medina also competed in Senior High Stand Still Percussion and came in second place while the Jazz Ensemble was third.
Albion’s band program also had a strong showing. Albion was first overall for marching band in the open class. The Albion jazz ensemble also took first.
Both the Albion and Medina bands will perform during the Memorial Day parades in their respective communities.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 18 May 2016 at 12:00 am
Photo by Tom Rivers – Adam Krenning, an agriculture teacher and FFA advisor at Albion, shows buds and blossoms on apple trees to elementary students last week at the FFA land lab. Krenning has led the FFA program for 16 years.
ALBION – It was 16 years ago when Adam Krenning was hired as Albion’s agriculture teacher and FFA advisor. The program then was in danger of being shut down because of limited student participation.
The program has thrived and grown under Krenning, tripling in size. It is considered one of the strongest in the state. in 2014, the New York Association of Agricultural Educators named Albion the state winner of the “Outstanding Middle School/Secondary School Program.”
Albion has twice hosted the state FFA convention in Krenning’s tenure, and several Albion students have served in state leadership roles, including Sara Millspaugh who was state FFA president this past year.
The program can add another honor: Ag Teacher of the Year in New York for Krenning. He will receive the award from the New York Association of Agricultural Educators on June 28 in Albany.
Krenning is being recognized for how the program has grown and excelled, as well as the strong ties to the local farm community. The local farmers give 30,000 pounds of produce after the harvest season to benefit Community Action and local food pantries, a collection organized by the Albion FFA.
The farmers also work with students to plant and harvest crops at the FFA Land Lab on school property along Clarendon Road.
“With Adam you can see his true commitment to students in the activities that he does,” said Erin McCaffrey, president of the NYA Agricultural Educators and FFA advisor and ag teacher for Stockbridge Valley Central School.
Krenning teaches classes on ag business, ag science, leadership, vet science and more. Many of the students complete supervised ag education projects, documenting cost of raising livestock or other farm products, and comparing that with revenue.
Krenning pushed to create the 5-acre Land Lab to make his classes “as hands-on as possible.” The Land Lab functions like “an experiential learning classroom” where Krenning said students measure the distance between apple trees and crops, and try different fertilizers to see which are most effective, among their many assignments.
FFA Advisor Adam Krenning, left, and Albion apple grower Steve Nesbitt discuss apple tree planting strategy at the FFA Land Lab in this photo from 2014. Barry Flansburg is behind the steering wheel. Nesbitt donated many of the trees, an example of the local farm community’s support of the Albion agriculture program.
Krenning said the community support has allowed the Albion program to grow and thrive. He said students are committed to the program, and community service, whether it’s the annual food collection for Community Action, reading to elementary students in Ag Literacy Week, or hosting a Mini Farm where students can see farm animals brought in for a day at the ag shop.
McCaffrey said the number of farm families is declining in the state, yet the FFA is seeing a resurgence as many students, including those who don’t live on farms, join the FFA to gain leadership skills, learn about food production and try to connect with service projects.
Ag educators feel a little vulnerable, McCaffrey said, because the programs aren’t state mandated. The ag teachers have to continually work hard to prove their worth. Some schools without FFA and ag programs see the success in other school districts and are trying to start programs, McCaffrey said.
“Schools are trying to rejuvenate programs, but it’s hard to find teachers like Adam. That’s the biggest hurdle, finding teachers with passion.”
Krenning also is eligible to be considered for the national ag teacher award. A committee will pick six regional winners to compee for the national award.
Krenning, who grew up on a fruit farm and hog operation near Knowlesville, wants to add more to the Albion program, including a Field to Table initiative wherestudents would make meals from food they grow in the Land Lab. Krenning would like to see the students develop recipes that could be handed out during the annual food drive for Community Action.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 17 May 2016 at 12:00 am
ALBION – Dan Beam receives his honor cords from his mother, Debbie DiBacco, while his father, Roger Beam, looks on during an Academic Honors Convocation Dinner on Monday.
Albion recognized 37 seniors who will soon be graduating with cumulative grade point averages at 90 percent or higher.
Alyce Miller is congratulated by Michael Bonnewell, Albion Central School superintendent. Alyce’s mother Betsy Miller, left, is ready to give Alyce her honor cords. High School Principal Matthew Peterson is in back, along with Eileen Banker from State Assemblyman Steve Hawley’s office.
The convocation dinner includes a keynote address from an Albion graduate. This year Sarah Brown Dirkes, Class of 2005, delivered the message to the crowd at Hickory Ridge Country Club.
Dirkes was the class president when she was a senior, active in FFA, the school musical and many other activities. She worked in admissions for Cornell University and she said Cornell values well-rounded students.
She is director of external relations for the American Farm Bureau Federation in Washington, D.C., meeting with many corporate leaders from Whole Foods, WalMart and other companies in the U.S. food supply chain.
Dirkes grew up on a family farm, Brown’s Berry Patch, and she said she learned the values of grit and hard work. Her father, Bob Brown, also impressed on her the importance of nurturing relationships in the community. She urged the Albion honor grads to develop a network, and to roll up their sleeves and work hard.
She has been successful in her career by “daring to fail,” which for her is sometimes building up the confidence to meet with CEOs, forging through a crowd during a stockholder meeting. When she was class president, Dirkes led the push to move the Albion prom from Buffalo or Rochester to Hickory Ridge. That site in Murray has remained the prom location, with a popular red carpet scene for parents and friends to see the prom attendees.
Dirkes also told the students they should know their strengths and match those skills with their profession.
Desiree Barber is congratulated by her parents during the convocation dinner at Hickory Ridge.
Elijah Van Epps goes through a receiving line of well-wishers, including District Superintendent Michael Bonnewell.
Bruce Landis, a local professional photographer, prepares the honor grads for a group picture.
The 37 honor graduates include: Marella Albanese, Miranda Allen, Dylan Bader, Matthew Baker, Desiree Barber, Daniel Beam, Bethany Bowman, Scott Daniels, Matthew DeCarlo, Alex DeSmit, Wynter Dumont, Cheyanna Eagle, Randall Eblacker, Kelley Flanagan, Matthew Flanagan, Madeline Gibbs, Sarah Graham, Mckayla Hastings, Meghan Hurley, Miranda King, Caitlin Malanowski, Alexis Manning, Alyce Miller, Evan Pappalardo, Meredith Patterson, Katelyn Perry, Katlin Pieniaszek, Aliya Rayner, Zachary Shaffer, Kelsee Soule, Melissa Symonds, Kyle Thaine, Nathaniel Trembley, Elijah Van Epps, Chloe Weis, Raven White and Mikayla Yaskulski.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 13 May 2016 at 12:00 am
Photos by Tom Rivers – Bob Brice, center in blue shirt, is congratulated by many Holley Central School staff after he was honored for 20 years of volunteerism with the Holley Sports Boosters on Thursday during the Orleans County Youth Recognition Banquet. Brice won the Eileen Heye Adult Volunteer Award, given to an adult volunteer who is a positive role model for youth.
MURRAY – The Orleans County Youth Board honored 20 youth for outstanding commitment and service to their community, school and families. The youth were nominated for the awards presented Thursday during the 34th annual Youth Recognition Banquet.
Some examples of outstanding service by youth include:
Randy Eblacker of Albion created a garden walkway for Hospice as part of his Eagle Scout project; Kenzie Galletta of Kendall has volunteered numerous hours the past three years at PAWS Animal Shelter; Allyson Irwin of Albion has been a busy volunteer with the Albion Fire Department and the Masonic Lodge; Jessica Mandigo of Holley volunteers at the Special Olympics and delivers candy canes to a nursing home;
Cassandra Sargent of Medina helped coordinate the unified volleyball team that introduces students with disabilities to school sports; Ian Smith of Lyndonville and Natalie Mrzywka of Holley are both active in 4-H and with the 4-H Senior Council; Joseph Velez of Medina interned at the Orleans County YMCA in the summer day camp program.
The Orleans County Youth Board recognized 20 youth for outstanding service with their community, family and school. The group includes Amanda Blackburn of Lyndonville, Randal Eblacker of Albion, Evan Gaesser of Kendall, Kenzie Galletta of Kendall, Allyson Irwin of Albion, Dixon Keon of Albion, Jessica Mandigo of Holley, Natalie Mrzywka of Holley, Rose Pajek of Kendall, Cassandra Sargent of Medina, Damian Schoonmaker of Holley, Zachary Shaffer of Albion, Ian Smith of Lyndonville, Julia Smith of Kendall, Kyle Thaine of Albion, Andrea Toussaint of Medina, Joseph Velez of Medina, Baylee VerCruysse of Medina, Austen Vroman of Holley and Angela Weaver of Holley.
In addition to recognizing the youth, the Youth Board honored two adults – one in a paid role and one a community volunteer – for their service to young people.
Bob Brice of Holley has been a dedicated volunteer with the Holley Sports Boosters the past 20 years, working in concessions and supporting the teams in many ways. His commitment started two decades ago when a Holley team needed a baseball coach. Brice stepped forward even tough he didn’t have a son on the team.
The Kodak retiree works as a teacher’s aide with the school. He praised the commitment of the Sports Boosters, who raise funds for the athletic programs, as well as scholarship and plaques for senior athletes.
“He truly loves the students, the athletes and Holley, New York,” school guidance counselor Samantha Zelent said in presenting Brice with the award at Hickory Ridge Ridge Golf Course and Country Club. “He exemplifies what a small community is all about.”
Brice has stayed active with the Boosters even after his youngest son, Robby, graduated in 2012.
“I just love doing it,” Brice said. “The kids should really be getting the award. They have given me a purpose.”
Gerry Golden, a caseworker with the Orleans County Department of Social Services, accepts the Helen R. Brinsmaid Award, given to a professional in a paid position whose work exceeds normal expectations. Chelsea Dillon, a program assistant with the Genesee-Orleans Youth Bureau, is at left.
Gerry Golden has worked 26 years as a caseworker with the Orleans County Department of Social Services. He has made a positive impact on many children, welcomed by many of those children and their parents as an extended part of their families.
“It is common for people to resent the caseworker who has come into their lives, but it is very rare for anyone to complain about Gerry,” the Youth Board said. “If a child calls with a crisis, Gerry will drop whatever he is doing to attend to their needs. He attends school meetings and extracurricular events and will travel hours to make sure a child can get home for a visit with their family.”
Golden initially wanted to pursue a career as a sports journalist. He was drawn to public service in his home county, where his mother Margaret Golden was a public health nurse and his father Bob Golden was Probation director.
Golden praised the kids and the families he works with for their success stories. He also urged others, including the youth receiving awards, to volunteer as mentors in the Just Friends program through the Genesee-Orleans Ministry of Concern.
Jeremy Babcock, an Albion volunteer firefighter who is currently is the Executive Director of Housing at the Rochester Institute of Technology, was keynote speaker for the evening. Babcock, 39, oversees a staff of 24, the residential halls and 1,000 apartments. He deals with everything from keys, pest control, furniture, laundry facilities and many other issues.
Babcock, an Albion graduate, lives an active life despite being born with birth defects in both arms.
He urged the youth award-winners to have a humble attitude while working hard.
“That drive and determination has to come from within,” Babcock said. “Only you can truly motivate and push yourself. Only you can determine the path you want to take in life.”
Provided photo – State Senator Rob Ortt (R-North Tonawanda) on Tuesday recognized The College at Brockport President Heidi Macpherson as one of the New York State Senate’s “Women of Distinction” during a ceremony at the Legislative Office Building in Albany.
Press Release, State Sen. Robert Ortt
ALBANY – Heidi Macpherson, president of The College at Brockport, was recognized in Albany on Tuesday as one of 59 distinguished women in the state.
The State Senate’s “Women of Distinction” program celebrates outstanding women from all walks of life throughout New York State whose contributions have enriched the quality of life in our communities.
“There are remarkable women in our midst whose lives, work or special accomplishments contribute to making our communities better, making our families stronger and serve as special examples to others. President Macpherson is one of those women,” said Senator Ortt. “The Senate’s Women of Distinction program provides a special opportunity to honor these women for their achievements and to thank them for the pride they bring to our communities.”
“I’m honored that Senator Ortt selected me as the ‘Woman of Distinction’ for his district, as enhancing our community is such an important part of what we are trying to accomplish,” said President Macpherson. “In the short time I’ve been at Brockport, Senator Ortt has proven to be a friend to the College and a strong supporter of public higher education.”
Dr. Heidi Macpherson was formally installed on April 29 as the seventh president at The College at Brockport. She is the first female president in the college’s history, which dates back to 1835. Ortt first met President Macpherson last summer, shortly after she took over leadership of the college in July 2015.
President Macpherson has more than 20 years of experience in higher education as an English professor, a writer and administrator in both the United States and England. Prior to her current position, Macpherson served as the Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.
The Minnesota native spent 22 years of her life in the United Kingdom, where she developed a love for international education and launched her career in higher education. Pres. Macpherson began her academic career at the University of Central Lancashire in England in 1995. While there, she took on the roles of program leader, head of the division of English, head of the Department of Humanities and professor. In 2007, she was appointed Dean of Humanities at De Montfort University in Leicester, England and subsequently held two different Pro Vice-Chancellor positions there. As Pro Vice-Chancellor at De Montfort, Macpherson wrote the university’s Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy.
Additionally, President Macpherson plays a vital role in her community – on a regional, national and international level. She’s an active member of Rotary International. In her previous role, she volunteered with the YWCA and Bethany Lutheran Homes. She’s a member of the United Way Women’s Leadership Council Steering Committee, and the Rochester Regional Community Advisory Council for Rochester Regional Health. In June, Macpherson will be recognized as the Honorary Chairwoman of the New York State Special Olympics, which will be held in Brockport.
“President Macpherson is someone who is not only committed to the academic community at The College at Brockport, but also to her community at home and abroad,” said Senator Ortt. “Her leadership, experience, and role in society are many of the reasons why I chose to recognize her as a woman of distinction in the Senate. She truly embodies the word ‘distinction.'”
President Macpherson calls the Village of Brockport home, where she lives with her husband, Dr. Allan Macpherson, and her Springer Spaniel, Tilly.
The “Women of Distinction” celebration was started in 1998. Previous winners in the annual event have included leading women from the world of business, academics and civic life, as well as those who have performed heroic or selfless acts, made significant discoveries, or provided examples of personal excellence against difficult odds.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 7 May 2016 at 12:00 am
Photo by Tom Rivers – Wayne Litchfield greets Betty Jennings of Albion during a luncheon on Friday when Litchfield when honored for his volunteer service. Jennings said Litchfield is “an extra-special person.”
KNOWLESVILLE – Since retiring about three years ago as an Orleans County dispatcher, a job he was devoted to for 28 years, Wayne Litchfield has poured himself into numerous community causes, volunteering as a mentor in the Just Friends program, a master gardener, visitor and friend to Hospice patients, sound technician at church, coordinator for emergency preparedness, board member for non-profits and many other efforts.
Litchfield, a Medina resident, said the roles have enriched his life. He was honored on Friday during an Office for the Aging luncheon attended by 200 people.
Litchfield urged the group of seniors to stay busy.
“Volunteering is a great opportunity to serve and help other residents in the county,” Litchfield said. “That’s the main reason I do it. You can bring joy, compassion and care to so many people.”
Litchfield has developed a reputation in the community as “The Flower Ambassador” because he sends flowers to many people. Last Christmas, he dressed as the Gingerbread Man and visited patients at the Martin-Linsin Hospice Residence.
“I have to figure out a new character for this Christmas,” Litchfield said, smiling.
He is quick to offer hugs and prayers to people. He serves meals at the Community Kitchen in Albion on many Friday evenings and also helps many people with their computer problems.
“It is impossible to quantify Wayne Litchfield’s impact on Orleans County,” according to his nomination for the award. “A voice of calm in crisis for nearly three decades as an emergency dispatcher; a heart of gold to those in need – in need of a hot meal, a listening ear, or an ‘IT guy.'”
Orleans County Office for the Aging recognizes two seniors each year who are active volunteers. They are then invited to Albany where they are honored at the State Capitol. That recognition program will be Tuesday and also includes Geary Shenck of Clarendon.
Shenck was unable to attend Friday’s program at the Trolley Building at the 4-H Fairgrounds. Shenck is retired as the Orleans County animal control officer. He has also been a long-time farmer and served as Clarendon town supervisor for 10 years. He continues to write a “Tid Bits” monthly column in the Clarendon Gazette.
He has been active with Community Action for 27 years, and the Holley Community Center for a decade. He also served on the Office for the Aging Advisory Council and helped start the St. Vincent De Paul Center more than a half century ago. He has volunteered for many years, picking up and delivering household items for families in need.
Shenck, in written comments, urged others to give of their time.
“Don’t be afraid to volunteer!” he said. “There is always something you can do to help. Volunteering gives you a good feeling in the heart. With a good team and support system, volunteering can be the most rewarding thing you can do.”
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 7 May 2016 at 12:00 am
Albion’s Joseph named Outstanding Musical
Photos by Tom Rivers
Zach Shaffer plays the Pharaoh in Albion’s production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, which Thursday was honored as an “Outstanding Musical” in the Stars of Tomorrow program, featuring the top performers in high school musicals in the Rochester region.
Albion won many other awards in the B Division, which includes many suburban schools. The combined Lyndonville-Medina musical, which also competes in the B Division, also was recognized with several awards.
Joseph Madejski plays one of Joseph’s brothers in Albion’s spring musical, which swept the major awards in the Stars of Tomorrow program.
In addition to Outstanding Musical, Albion won for Outstanding Dance Ensemble, Outstanding Acting Ensemble, Outstanding Production Crew, Outstanding Student Orchestra, and Outstanding Singing Ensemble.
Albion performers also won individual awards. Kyle Thaine plays Joseph, center, and was honored with an award for Outstanding Leading Actor.
Angela Tarricone, left, and Cheyenna Eagle, right, both were narrators and each received awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress.
Additional individual recognitions went to Jillian Doyle, Elijah VanEpps and Stephen Williams.
Salma Huzair of Lyndonville plays Sarah Brown in Guys & Dolls. She was recognized as Outstanding Lead Actress. Salma also was picked as one of the 32 top performers in Rochester and will perform on May 26 in Rochester for the chance to represent the Rochester area in New York City at a national competition. For more on that competition, which includes fan voting, visit www.rochesterfirst.com/stars-of-tomorrow-2016.
Thomas Follman won a Best Supporting Actor award for his portrayal of “Nicely-Nicely Johnson” in Guys & Dolls.
Other Lyndonville-Medina students recognized include Isabella Carrasquillo and Brian Cunningham as Future Stars, Madison Holland and Jenna Doran with Special Recognition, and Tip of the Hat awards to Sierra Blanar, Aubrey Lewis and Brian Cunningham.
Lyndonville used to compete in the D Division for the smallest schools, but was moved to the B Division, with much bigger schools, since a merger of the musical program with Medina.
MURRAY – The Orleans County Youth Board will holds its 34th annual Youth Recognition Dinner at Hickory Ridge Golf and Country Club on May 12 and will recognize 20 young people for their commitment to community service and/or their impressive role in their family. Additionally, the dinner will recognize one adult youth worker and an adult volunteer.
The following young people will be recognized: Amanda Blackburn, Randal Eblacker, Evan Gaesser, Kenzie Galletta, Allyson Irwin, Dixon Keon, Jessica Mandigo, Natalie Mrzywka, Rose Pajek, Cassandra Sargent, Damian Schoonmaker, Zachary Shaffer, Ian Smith, Julia Smith, Kyle Thaine, Andrea Toussaint, Joseph Velez, Baylee VerCruysse, Austen Vroman and Angela Weaver.
Gerry Golden is receiving the Helen R. Brinsmaid Memorial Youth Worker Award from his position as a caseworker at Orleans County Department of Social Services for going above and beyond with the families he works with.
Robert Brice is receiving the Eileen Heye Adult Volunteer Award for all the work he does for the Holley community.
The keynote speaker for the evening will be Jeremy Babcock, an Albion volunteer firefighter who is currently is the Executive Director of Housing at the Rochester Institute of Technology. Babcock, 39, oversees a staff of 24, the residential halls and 1,000 apartments. He deals with everything from keys, pest control, furniture, laundry facilities and many other issues.
Babcock is also a talented golfer. He lives an active life despite being born with birth defects in both arms.
“I’m really fortunate with what I can do,” Babcock told the Orleans Hub in a previous interview. “My family and friends always pushed me.”
MEDINA – Medina High School English teacher Karen Jones recently had an honored guest in her classroom. Medina High School alumni and author, Julie Berry, paid a visit to Mrs. Jones’ 7th and 9th period seniors to discuss her book, “All The Truth That’s in Me.” The students had just finished reading it for an assignment.
The book is about a young woman named Judith and what happens to her after her best friend and she disappear from their small town. She returns permanently mutilated, reviled and ignored by those around her and eventually finds her voice again.
The book has won critical acclaim and has an Edgar Award nomination, A YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults Top Ten Title, A Junior Library Guild Selection, A School Library Journal Best Book of 2013, A Kirkus Reviews Best Teen Book for 2013, A Horn Book Fanfare 2013 title, a 2014 TAYSHAS Top Ten Pick and was on the short list for the Carnegie Medal.
“It was such a pleasure to have Julie in my class. We went to school together,” says Mrs. Jones. “It was a great opportunity for my students to be able to discuss the book with her. She also shared with them her new book that has recently been released. I am very appreciative she came in and spent time with all of us.”
KENDALL – Damian Morfin Howes was awarded his Eagle Scout rank during a celebration on Sunday.
Damian is from Troop 94.
For his Eagle project, he built four large flower boxes.
Two boxes were placed in the front of Kendall United Methodist Church. The second two were placed on the side of the church barn under the barn quilt.
The flower boxes allow the congregation of the church to plant flowers on both sides of the church’s front entrance, thus enhancing the front of the church.
The boxes on the side of the barn allow for the planting of flowers and easier upkeep for the church property.
This was Damian’s way to give back to the church community that has supported him.
By Kristina Gabalski, Correspondent Posted 2 May 2016 at 12:00 am
Photo by Kristina Gabalski – Holley Technology teacher Tim Rogers was presented with the Soaring to New Heights Award during last week’s Board of Education meeting. He is pictured with Susan Cory, principal of the Middle School/High School.
HOLLEY – Geometry and construction, a course that will be offered at Holley High School in the 2016-2017 school year, could provide some exciting challenges for students as they learn geometry through hands on projects.
Holley Middle School/High School Principal Susan Cory reported to Board of Education members during last week’s meeting that 15 students have registered for the class so far.
She showed a video about Second Wind Cottages, which constructs housing for the homeless in Ithaca, and announced that work is underway to see if students in the class can construct one of the cottages. The cottages help homeless men regain their health, create stability in their lives, and build relationships, the video explained.
“It’s an exciting prospect,” Cory told school board members. She noted the class will be instructional (students will take the Geometry Regents at the end of the year) and also provide an opportunity for community service by “doing something for someone else.”
Some supplies could be donated by Home Depot, Cory explained, but the cottages cost about $12,000 to construct and she is not yet sure what part of the expense Second Wind would cover.
Holley Technology teacher Tim Rogers will be one of the instructors for the class. He was presented with the Soaring to New Heights Award during Tuesday evening’s meeting. Rogers was recognized, in particular, for his work with the Holley Tech Wars team which competed recently at GCC. Rogers said the annual event is “great fun.”
School Board President Brenda Swanger said Rogers is an asset to the district. “The parents are so proud of their children, thank you,” she said.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 30 April 2016 at 12:00 am
Photos by Tom Rivers – Five Orleans County residents were honored on Friday for their efforts to preserve Orleans County history. The group includes, from left: Melissa Ierlan, Delia Robinson, Peg Wiley, Al Capurso and Tim Archer.
ALBION – Three people were recognized as Heritage Heroes on Friday for efforts to preserve and promote local history. In addition, two other Orleans County residents were given special awards for their heritage efforts.
Genesee Community College recognized the third class of Heritage heroes on Friday during an awards reception at GCC in Albion. The college first recognized Heritage Heroes in 2014 as part of GCC’s Civil War Encampment. The 150th anniversary of the Civil War has passed and GCC no longer hosts the encampment.
But GCC plans to continue to recognize Heritage Heroes, said Jim Simon, GCC dean of the campus centers in Albion and Medina, and Derek Maxfield, GCC history professor. They also announced plans for a new Orleans County Heritage Festival on Sept. 9-11 featuring historic sites and attractions around the county.
Simon and Maxfield both said the county is fortunate to have many energetic citizens working to preserve historic sites and share stories of pioneer residents and others from many generations ago.
Derek Maxfield, a history professor at Genesee Community College, speaks during the Heritage Heroes awards celebration on Friday at GCC in Albion. Maxfield serves on the selection committee. He announced plans for a new Orleans County Heritage Festival this year from Sept. 9-11.
The Heritage Heroes recognized for 2016 include:
Al Capurso is a retired case manager for the Department of Social Services, Probation and Mental Health. He worked there for 24 years. He also owned the Bait Barn shop by his home on Route 279.
Since retiring he has tackled many local projects, including new historical markers at the Courthouse Square for the first pioneer settler and also one by a cobblestone schoolhouse on Gaines Basin Road. Capurso has led efforts to save that cobblestone building, with volunteers repairing windows and paying to have a new roof put on the site, which could become a meeting house and building used to display historic artifacts.
Capurso also gained government approvals to have a local stream named Gilbert Creek in honor of pioneer settler Elizabeth Gilbert. Capurso said many community members have stepped forward to help preserve the former schoolhouse.
Peg Wiley and her husband Richard moved to Point Breeze in 2002 to run their business, Wiley’s Riverside Marina. Mrs. Wiley soon became involved in community projects, including leading the effort to build a replica of the Oak Orchard Lighthouse that was toppled in 1916 during a wind storm.
Wiley helped raise $300,000 for the new lighthouse, which was completed in 2010 and now serves as an iconic symbol for the county featured in tourism guides. The lighthouse also includes a small museum telling the history of the original lighthouse.
The project helped inspire other community fund-raising efforts for a new public library in Albion, a new Education Center at the 4-H Fairgrounds and the new Hospice residence in Albion.
“The lighthouse was built by the community,” Wiley said at the awards program. “The community became empowered. They believed they could do it.”
Wiley said many people helped with the project, including the late Cheryl Staines, who served as treasurer of the project. Staines died on Friday after battling cancer.
“We couldn’t have done it without her,” Wiley said.
Tim Archer is the service learning teacher at Albion, working with seventh graders. He has led them on several historic preservation efforts in Albion and beyond.
They have cleaned up the Prisoner of War Camp from World War II in Hamlin, and are working to have a historic marker at Hillside Cemetery in Holley for Charles Herbert Taylor, the only known resident of the county killed in the battle of Gettysburg.
Archer and Albion students cleaned up the cemetery at the former County Alms House on County House Road in Albion, resetting stones, clearing brush, researching the names of residents and erecting a memorial in their honor.
Archer said he has 140 students each year to work on projects. The students are determined and feel pride in the efforts.
“They need to take ownership of their community,” he said.
Bill Lattin, retired Orleans County historian, presents the first C.W. “Bill” Lattin Award for Excellence in Municipal History to Melissa Ierlan, the Clarendon town historian.
The Heritage Heroes program this year included two new awards to recognize municipal historians, who were excluded from previous Heritage Hero recognition. Maxfield said the Heritage Hero Committee wanted to recognize municipal historians, who he said are “unsung heroes,” often working long hours for little pay.
The committee created the C.W. “Bill” Lattin Award for Excellence in Municipal History in honor of Lattin, the county’s historian for nearly four decades. He also led the Cobblestone Society Museum for about 40 years.
Melissa Ierlan is first recipient. She works as Clarendon’s historian and code enforcement officer. She also is active in the Clarendon Historical Society and has spearheaded efforts to save the chapel at Hillside Cemetery.
Ierlan has also repainted 15 historic markers in the county (including one in Elba for the mucklands). She scrapes the paint off the markers and meticulously repaints them, projects that take several days. She has volunteers who help re-weld some of the markers.
Lattin said Ierlan has a can-do attitude. He compared her to former Olympic gymnast Mary Lou Retton.
“Melissa is supercharged,” Lattin said. “She sees things to do and does them.”
The Committee also created the Robert E. Waters Award for Lifetime Achievement in honor of the late Waters, a newspaper publisher who was active in many community causes. Waters was in the inaugural Heritage Heroes class.
Delia Robinson is the first recipient of the award. She served as a Gaines town historian for more than three decades, writing books on cobblestone buildings, Gaines history and contributions of women to the county’s history.
Robinson was influential in many historical markers being placed in the county, noting efforts by women. She continues to give monthly historical talks at Hoag Library.
“You never know all of the history,” Robinson said. “History is never done. There’s always something to find out.”
BERGEN – The Byron-Bergen Central School District’s Board of Education has named Mickey Edwards as the district’s next superintendent. Edwards’ start date is July 1.
Edwards lives in Albion. He is a former high school art teacher and principal at Albion. He is currently superintendent at Wyoming Central School.
“With his dedication, enthusiasm, and professional background, along with a deep understanding of many aspects of educational leadership, our board feels that Mr. Edwards is an excellent fit for the students, faculty, and staff of the district,” said Debi List, Byron-Bergen Central School District’s Board President.
Before working as the top administrator at Wyoming, Edwards served as the Coordinator of Curriculum and Instruction for Orleans/Niagara BOCES, a position he held from 2009 until 2014. Edwards began teaching in 1995 as an art teacher for the Hilton Central School District.
In 1996, he began teaching at Albion Central Schools as an art/technology instructor. He continued his career at Albion Central Schools serving as the Elementary School Dean of Students, Middle School Assistant Principal and High School Principal. Edwards is a veteran of the United States Marine Corp.
Edwards earned a Bachelor of Science in Art Education from Roberts Wesleyan College, and a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies from The College at Brockport. He holds a School District Administrator certificate from The College at Brockport.
“I am very excited to join the Byron-Bergen Central School District team and meet the staff, students, and the community members of Byron and Bergen,” Edwards said. “Byron-Bergen Central School District should be proud of its many accomplishments and strengths. I look forward to continuing this tradition of excellence as we work together to ensure that our students are successful and prepared for tomorrow.”
Mr. Kevin MacDonald, District Superintendent of the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership, acted as search consultant. MacDonald said the Board developed and implemented a process that helped to determine the best candidate.
“Mr. Edwards understands the challenges and issues the districts in our region face. His breadth of experience, and educational leadership will greatly benefit this district as he works with the Board of Education, staff, and community to provide a quality education for the children of this community,” said MacDonald.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 23 April 2016 at 12:00 am
Photos by Tom Rivers – Debbie Heuer addresses a crowd of about 300 people after being named the 2015 “Best Friend” for The Arc of Orleans County.
HOLLEY – The Arc of Orleans County held its annual awards program on Friday and recognized many of the agency’s key supporters, as well as developmentally disabled adults who have excelled in jobs and other roles in the community.
Debbie Heuer received the “Best Friend” award for her volunteer work with the agency for the past three decades. She is a former board president, and has served on numerous committees and efforts, including basket raffles, the golf tournament, 5K race, endowment fund and Signature Series. She also coached a soccer team for people with disabilities.
“Debbie is humble and gives of her time, talents and support to the Arc with no need for accolades,” said John Huber, The Arc board president.
He presented the award to Heuer in front of about 300 people during the 36th annual Best Friend Dinner at Hickory Ridge Golf Course.
Debbie Heuer receives a citation from Ed Morgan (representing State Sen. Rob Ortt) during Friday’s awards program. John Huber, The Arc board president, is in back. Eileen Banker, back left, also presented Heuer with a citation from State Assemblyman Steve Hawley.
Heuer thanked the Arc, especially its many dedicated employees, for serving people with disabilities and their families. Heuer first connected with The Arc in 1988 when her son Tyler received early intervention services from Rainbow Preschool.
“They are kind and generous and underpaid,” Heuer said about The Arc staff. “On behalf of the whole Heuer family, I want to say thank you to The Arc for what you mean to us and all of the support.”
The agency presented several other awards on Friday, including:
Business Partnership Award: DeGeorge Property Group
File photo by Tom Rivers
The Arc of Orleans County celebrated the opening of the “Snack Shack” on Oct. 21 at the Arnold Gregory Memorial Complex at 243 South Main St. The Snack Shack sells baked goods, soda, coffee, ice cream, fruit, candy and breakfast and lunch sandwiches.
Ben DeGeorge of the DeGeorge Property Group was recognized for teaming with The Arc to start a snack shop at the Arnold Gregory Memorial Complex, which is owned by DeGeorge Property. DeGeorge upgraded the site with new plumbing, cosmetics and furniture, while giving lots of encouragement to The Arc in establishing the snack shop on Oct. 21.
Heritage Award: Turnbull Heating & Air Conditioning
Bill Hayes, owner of Turnbull Heating & Air Conditioning, is congratulated with the Heritage Award by Eileen Banker (left) from State Assemblyman Steve Hawley’s office and Donna Saskowski (right), Arc executive director.
Bill Hayes, owner of Turnbull Heating & Air Conditioning, has been a long-time supporter of The Arc, sponsoring the golf tournament which supports Camp Rainbow. He also has been generous with the annual appeal and other fund-raising efforts.
Hayes lives in Batavia next to developmentally disabled adults. He said they are great neighbors. He also hires a crew through the ARC in Genesee County to clean his business.
“They are honest, they are diligent and they are hard workers,” Hayes said, encouraging other businesses to hire work crews through The Arc.
Community Service Award: John Hald
John Hald accepts the Community Service Award. He volunteers in many community efforts, including the Lyndonville Fire Department and Lyndonville Lion’s Club.
He also helps at Hospice of Orleans, PAWS Animal Shelter, and also cares for neighbors’ pets if his neighbors are away or ill. He also helps some of his neighbors when they are sick by taking out their trash and visiting them.
Self-Advocate of the Year: Phil Donoghue
Donna Saskowski (left), Arc executive director, congratulates Phil Donoghue on his award. Donoghue was recognized for his active role in the “Self Advocacy All Stars,” helping with fundraisers, incuding building a sleigh for the Strawberry Festival Parade and a winter dance. He also made the fireplace for the winter gala. He helps his peers in jewelry making classes and other projects.
Supported Employment Worker of the Year: Mike Grandin
Grandin has worked several jobs since joining The Arc in 2000, including six years with the Associated Brands enclave. He also worked at Fischer’s Newsroom for more than a year, stocking, pricing and cleaning. He started as a cleaner at Snap Fitness in Medina last June. Grandin has excellent work attendance and is a role model to others.
Orleans Enterprises Worker of the Year: Tom Popowych
Popowych has been working at Orleans Enterprises for 20 years, with nearly perfect attendance to the work site on Washington Street in Albion. He has demonstrated a tireless work ethic and keen attention to detail. He displays good manufacturing practices and daily workshop safety, as well as a friendly demeanor.
ROCHESTER – A Waterport woman who teaches music in the City of Rochester was one of four teachers honored last week by the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra for outstanding work in the classroom.
Kelly Follman is an instrumental and vocal teacher at Francis Parker School #23 in the Rochester City School District. Follman directs the Compass Choir and two bands, as well as directs and produces two elementary musicals each year.
She holds the position of Eastman Pathways program liaison between the city school district and the Eastman School of Music. This year, she is a recipient of the RCSD Board of Education “Yes We Can” Award for her work with children in urban education, specifically at Francis Parker School.
Follman is a woodwind specialist who performs in area pit orchestras and serves as costumer for community theater productions. She passionately believes that children in the city of Rochester should have access to the same music-making opportunities as their peers in surrounding communities, and works diligently to achieve this, according to a news release from the RPO.
Photo: RPO
The four teachers recognized by the RPO include, from left: Kathleen Sullivan of Pine Brooke Elementary School at Greece Central School District; Kelly Follman of Francis Parker School #23 in Rochester City School District; Brian Bohrer of Rush-Henrietta High School; and William Baldwin, Twelve Corners Middle School in Brighton Central School District.
She was recognized last Thursday during the 28th annual RPO Musicians’ Awards for Outstanding Music Educators. Founded in 1988, the Awards program works to strengthen the relationship between area music educators and the musicians of the RPO.
The awards commend those teaches who have shown both educational and musical excellence and who recognize the positive influence they have on musicians and audiences of the future. Administrators, educators, parents and students submit nominations that are then reviewed by a committee comprised of community educators and RPO musicians.
“We want to see how they engage students in the classroom, and how they are creating an atmosphere of excitement toward music,” explains Anna Steltenpohl, chair of the Awards committee and RPO oboe and English horn player. “We want to see how they are bringing music alive.”
