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.”

ROCHESTER – Olivia Braley of Lyndonville, a senior at the University of Rochester with a major in Anthropology, will be welcomed into the Phi Beta Kappa honor society.

Braley will join 118 seniors and 11 juniors as 2025 inductees into the Phi Beta Kappa. An initiation ceremony is scheduled for May 15 in Strong Auditorium.

Founded in 1776, Phi Beta Kappa is the nation’s oldest academic honor society. Membership is by invitation only, and students are chosen by faculty members who also are members of the society.

Lillian Wilson of Medina receives 2 prestigious awards at Clarkson University

POTSDAM – Lillian Wilson of Medina, a standout student at Clarkson University and member of the Clarkson Honors Program, has been recognized with two of the university’s most prestigious undergraduate awards.

Wilson, a double major in Chemistry and Biochemistry with a perfect 4.0 GPA, was awarded the Sophomore Award for Biology, given annually to the biology major with the highest cumulative GPA after three semesters of study.

She was also selected for the Egon Matijevic Endowed Chemistry Scholarship, an honor bestowed upon an outstanding undergraduate student in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry.

In addition to her academic achievements, Wilson has distinguished herself as a researcher, leader, and mentor. She has conducted microbial evolution research in Associate Biology Professor Susan Bailey’s Laboratory, worked on nanopore sequencing of lake sediment samples, and served as a Teaching Assistant in First-Year Chemistry.

She is also active in the Beta Beta Beta National Biological Honor Society and has held leadership roles in the Clarkson School and the Timber Bridge SPEED Team. Wilson is expected to graduate from Clarkson University in May 2027.

POTSDAM – Lillian Wilson of Medina was recently elected to membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society, at Clarkson University.

Wilson is among approximately 20,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter.

Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.

Three New York Army National Guard members from Orleans County recently earned promotions.

Alden Cayea of Medina – assigned to the Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 2nd Squadron, 101st Cavalry Regiment – received a promotion March 20 to the rank of 1st lieutenant.

Andrew Hill of Albion – assigned to the 222nd Military Police Company – received a promotion March 25 to the rank of specialist.

Niyah Thompson of Medina – assigned to the Company C, NY Army National Guard Recruiting & Retention Battalion – received a promotion March 19 to the rank of private.

Army National Guard promotions are based on a soldier’s overall performance, demonstrated leadership abilities, professionalism and future development potential.

These promotions recognize the best qualified soldiers for a career in the New York Army National Guard, said Major General Ray Shields, the Adjutant General for the State of New York.