‘Medina Oscars’ celebrate outstanding community leaders, organizations

Photo from Medina Central School: The Medina Oscars was a chance to dress up and celebrate people and organizations making a big difference in the school and community.

Posted 21 May 2024 at 10:50 am

Press Release, Medina Central School

MEDINA – Medina Central School District on May 16 hosted the first Medina Community Oscars at the historic Bent’s Opera House with 170 people in attendance.

The grand ballroom was simply fashioned with golden gunmetal banquet chairs, flowers that draped the apron of the stage adorned with two life-size Oscar statues. As the elevator opened a red carpet ran through the center of the venue, allowing all to have their moment on the “Red Carpet.”

The sold-out event quickly filled. Daniel Doctor, Community Partnership Director for the Medina Central School District, took the stage to welcome attendees and to congratulate all nominees. He then graciously turned the microphone to Julie Webber, Curriculum Director of Instruction for the Medina Central School District who was the Mistress of Ceremony for the remainder of the evening.

The purpose behind the event came to fruition. All individuals, businesses or organizations that either got nominated or won were most deserving. To enhance the excitement of the “opening of the envelope” to unveil the winners, the audience found the musical performances more entertaining.

Ava Blount, a poised and graceful sophomore at Medina and performer at West Side Academy of Performing Arts and Dance, got to repeat her performance of “I Dreamed a Dream” from the 1980 musical Les Misérables.

Joseph Mangiola, an alumnus of Medina and worship leader at Calvary Tabernacle, took command of the stage focused on low tones and soaring vocals. He sang, “Music of the Night” from Phantom of the Opera.

Holly Lederhouse, a third alumnus of Medina and performer with BGB Studio, provided the audience with her powerful soprano vocals singing “Never Enough” from the film The Greatest Showman.

And the final performer Brandon Noreck, song writer, R&B, Pop and Soul recording artist and alum of Medina Central School District, showed the audience regardless of what happens, “The show must go on.” He sang “Maria” acapella, due to internet failure. The song is from the 1957 Broadway musical West Side Story, sung by the lead character Tony which he portrayed for the Medina Musical Theatre Department when it was under the direction of Daniel Doctor. Noreck did not miss a beat nor note as he effortlessly floated his high tenor voice.

Guest speakers in attendance included Mrs. Kathy Valley, a retired teacher from Medina who addressed the audience on the importance of volunteering and charging them to, “Think about it first, then do.” Mrs. Noori Bibi, a volunteer from Project Life, also gave a message, informing the audience of the work that is done in the Medina community to support children who are in need of receiving an education, medical support and restoration to lost childhood of victims of war and natural disasters. Funds raised at this event will go to Project Life to continue the support for Ahmed, a 9-year-old Medina student with several health challenges.

This Medina Community OSCARS was a win! And the winner goes to…

Spotlight Award: Viviana Neroni
Community Impact: Shawn Ramsey, owner of Canalside Tattoo
Outstanding Service to Veterans Award: Jennifer Thom
Boy Scout/Girl Scout Troop Award: Mindy Cogovan of Troop 82096
Arts and Culture Award: Medina Central School District
Community Collaboration: Todd Eick
Outstanding Student Award (K-2) – Hollis Green and Landyn Dorgan
Outstanding Student Award (grades 3-6) – Lauren Allis
Outstanding Student Award (grade 7-12) – Roosevelt Mitchell
Volunteer of the Year: Melissa Valley
Event of the Year: Parade of Lights, chairman Jim Hancock
Inspirational Educator Award: Krista Duhow, Medina Jr./Sr. High
Community Service Award: Medina Rotary Club
Organization of the Year (under 10 employees) – Case-Nic Cookies, Mary Lou Tuohey owner
Organization of the Year (more than 10 employees) – Medina Central School District
Community Leadership: Daniel Doctor
Unsung Hero Award: Nicole Tuohey
Lifetime Achievement Award: Roger Hungerford
Thank You: Kathy Valley