Arthur Barnes, Marco Rodriguez and David Burke all have paintings on display

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – David F. Burke of Bergen is one of the featured artists in a new show at the Marti’s on Main art gallery in Albion.

He is shown by his painting, “White Trees in September,” an acrylic on canvas.

Burke has 12 paints in the show at Marti’s. Kim Martillotta Muscarella has the gallery open for its 16^th season. There are receptions the third Friday each month from April to November for the new art shows at 20 South Main St.

Arthur Barnes is shown with some of his new ink and water color paintings that he did over the winter. Barnes has about a dozen new paintings in the art show. He likes to paint trees in the winter when there aren’t leaves on the branches. That way there is more to see of the landscapes.

Marco Rodriguez of Brockport is also featured at Marti’s. Rodriguez retired from General Motors after 40 years. He moved to Brockport from Detroit about five years ago to be near his grandchildren.

Rodriguez always liked art but didn’t make the time to paint until his retirement. He has 32 oil paintings at Marti’s including “Colorado Fly Fishing” which is left at top and “Rain Drops” at the bottom. “The King” is another painting he is standing near.

Kim Martillotta Muscarella welcomes people to the art gallery for Friday’s show. There are works from many artists on display throughout the building, which used to the Cornell Cooperative Extension until it moved to a new building in 2007 at the 4-H Fairgrounds.

Mark Parker sang and played the guitar during the art show, which also included a spread of snacks.

This season there are sculptures on display that were created by Richard Bannister and George Graham. Bannister’s work is at left and Graham’s is at right. In back at right, Marco Rodriguez talks with Albion resident Samuel Robinson.

For more information on Marti’s, click here.

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – The Tiny “PowerHouse” visited Albion on Thursday. It was stationed in the parking lot of Hoag Library. The PowerHouse is on an 11-day tour of the Rochester region.

The 250-square-foot house was built in 2020 by the Cornell Cooperative extension in Tompkins County.

The house has many exhibits and demonstrations that show the best ways to conserve energy within a house.

Emily Hung, a residential energy advisor for Climate Solutions Accelerator of the Genesee-Finger Lakes Region, answered questions from the public about the PowerHouse and led demonstrations.

Hung said a properly insulated house is one of the best ways to conserve energy. Changing to LED bulbs is another easy way to reduce electric usage.

She said there are many programs to help residents implement energy-savings projects through NYSERDA (New York State Energy Research and Development Authority).

“You can save money and be more comfortable in your home,” she said.

In this demonstration, people used a hand pedal to see how much energy it takes to turn on a light bulb and keep it lighted up. The LED took far less energy while the incandescent took the most electricity.

Another display showed the wattage to power a hair dryer at abut 240 watts. That compared to a string of lights that used 41 watts of electricity.

Grace Kent of Albion checks out the Tiny PowerHouse. Emily Hung is at left and in back is Brady Fergusson, director of public engagement for Climate Solutions Accelerator.

Green Orleans, a local group focused on preserving the environment and sustainable living, invited Climate Solutions Accelerator to bring the Tiny PowerHouse to Albion.

Climate Solutions Accelerator is bringing the home to communities in the region, offering a free, hands-on opportunity to learn how energy works inside the home and explore practical ways to save energy, improve comfort, reduce waste, and prepare for cleaner energy choices.

Exhibit topics include air leaks, insulation, renewable heating and cooling, solar energy, lighting, windows, appliances, Do-It-Yourself projects, and indoor air quality.

This display asks what takes the most electricity at a house.

Home heating makes up 51 percent of home energy use, with water heating at 19 percent, air conditioning at 5 percent, refrigeration at 3 percent, and other demands at 22 percent.

To see the schedule of the Tiny PowerHouse tour in Rochester, click here.

Agency will step up advocacy while providing many critical local services

Photos by Ginny Kropf: Renee Hungerford introduces Jenn Redding, RN, who spoke on Sharps Safety at Community Action’s In-Service Day last week.

ALBION – Since its founding more than 60 years ago, Community Action of Orleans and Genesee has provided food, clothing and necessary services to a countless number of families.

Community Action last week observed its annual In-Service Day at the Albion Elks Lodge. Theme for the day was “Doing the Work When the Work is Hard.”

“Seeing people struggle can be very discouraging,” said executive director Renee Hungerford. “We have dealt with the pandemic and the constant threat of funding cuts.”

She also shared the successes their agency had last year, in addition to the hurdles they are facing with state and federal cuts to its programs. A highlight of her speech was the need for advocacy.

“If Community Action went away, the Department of Social Services could not pick up all those in need,” she said.

Renee Hungerford, executive director of Community Action of Orleans and Genesee, recognizes Peter Bartula at the annual In-Service Day for being an advocate for the agency.

The program last Friday began with breakfast and a presentation to Peter Bartula, an advocate for Community Action and keynote speaker, whose presentation was “We’re All Salespeople.”  Bartula recently ran a cornhole tournament fundraiser for Community Action, something Hungerford would like to see recurring.

In Friday’s speech, highlighting the State of the Agency, Hungerford explained the seriousness of their situation and some positive wins.

“Our organization actively advocates for federal and state funding, facing proposed cuts to program like Low Income HEAP and Community Services Block Grant, but securing some wins, such as a $40 million line item for the Weatherization Assistance Program in the New York state budget.

“Federal budget proposals include a $4 billion cut to LIHEAP and $775 million to CSBG.”

LIHEAP is targeted for elimination, citing state policies that prevent utility disconnections. CSBG is proposed for elimination due to perceived duplication and accountability concerns.

Hungerford stresses the government is proposing these cuts because they don’t realize all the good Community Action does, and says it is imperative to advocate. Advocacy activities by Hungerford and local politicians include trips to DC and Albany, testimony, meetings and letters to officials.

“The president doesn’t know what we do here,” she said.

The president’s 2027 budget does maintain Head Start funding, but Hungerford warns of inflation and rising costs.

The Community Block Grant Improvement Act reauthorizes CSBG through 2032, increasing eligibility to 200% of the poverty line and expanding permitted uses.

Hungerford said advocacy emphasizes the importance of community support and building a strong agency reputation.

Although faced with cuts, the agency reported significant achievements across health, education, housing and youth programs, demonstrating positive community outcomes, she said.

In 2025, the agency addressed social determinants of health with services to 752 households, 4,404 families and 228 individuals receiving meals, rental and utility assistance.

Head Start and Early Head Start enrolled 194 children with high access to healthcare and developmental improvements. Early Head Start served 94 children having 100% accessible healthcare and a 12% increase in dental care.

Youth development programs supported 417 students with evidence-based curricula. Transportation services provided 3,509 trips for seniors and disabled, and the Child Care Resource Center facilitated 55 referrals, 438 technical assistance sessions and expanded staff with new mental health and business specialists.

Housing initiatives installed air conditioning in 70 homes and completed 76 weatherization jobs.

Topping off the year’s successes was the launching of the Fresh Start Care Center, a room at the Main Street Corner Thrift, Gifts and More store which houses a laundry, shower and personal care items for homeless or other students who have no access to them at home.

The prom giveaway program was expanded to eight counties and 92 prom dresses were distributed.

Historically, 10% of HEAP funding was allocated to WAP, but this year the Hochel administration plans to redirect these funds, resulting in a 69% reduction for WAP. Advocacy efforts led to a $40 million line-item for WAP in the state budget, partially offsetting the loss.

Hungerford said sustained advocacy has become a significant part of agency work, diverting resources from direct service delivery, although yielding some positive outcomes.

In addition to the above accomplishments, Community Action’s Emergency Services and Case Management distributed 752 holiday meal kits, provided 379 individuals with clothing, distributed food to 4,404 families, 5,991 prepared meals to 338 people at the Eastern Orleans Community Center. In addition, 34 individuals received help to avoid eviction and 27 individuals received support to prevent utility shutoff.

Youth and adolescent support was offered through Project Salus, in which students received evidence-based curriculum on healthy decision making and advocacy skills.

The Child Care Resource Center received 55 referrals for child care and added a business specialist and infant early childhood mental health consultant to enhance provider support.

In addition to providing thousands of individuals with needed services, Community Action contracted for Medicaid 1115 Waiver Services and celebrated the agency’s 60th anniversary.

All this is in addition to major improvements and growth at the Eastern Orleans Community Center in Holley.

“It has been completely redone,” Hungerford said. “It is fabulous.”

The center is open from 9:30 to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and serves lunch daily. A clothing closet, emergency food pantry, emergency clothing pantry, public access computers with internet, food distribution site and senior activities are some of features offered there.

Other highlights of the in-service were a ROMA refresher by Cassie Healy, head of the Main Street store; a talk on Sharps Safety by registered nurse Jenn Radigan; introduction of directors and board members; lunch and an afternoon of fun activities.

In regard to Hungerford’s urgency for advocacy, she said, “Before I worked here, I had no idea what Community Action did. We think food distribution and emergency services. But we do so much more. We have so many amazing programs that help our community. We cannot lobby. But we can advocate. Our message needs to go to the top.”

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – The Albion Rotary Club celebrated another successful year on Thursday evening during its meeting at the Tavern on the Ridge.

Richard Remley, left, served as president the past 12 months. He hands off the gavel to incoming president, Mike Bonnewell.

Bonnewell is retired as Albion Central School superintendent. He previously served as Rotary Club president in 2017-18. He is active on the Albion Strawberry Festival Committee, and also is chairman of the Strawberry Festival parade.

Rotary Club member Don Bishop, left, presents a Paul Harris Fellow award to Remley in appreciation for his leadership the past year.

The Club has been a part of the Albion community for more than a century and spearheads several events and fundraisers.

Its next big event will be a golf tournament July 16 at Shelridge Country Club in Medina with proceeds going to the Office for the Aging’s volunteer transportation program and other Rotary community projects.

The Rotary Club meets at the Tavern on the Ridge the first Thursday each month at noon and the third Thursday at 5:30 p.m.

Climate Solutions Accelerator taking tiny home on 11-day tour of Rochester region to promote sustainability

Photos and information courtesy Climate Solutions Accelerator

ALBION – Hoag Library will be hosting the Tiny “PowerHouse” on Thursday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The tiny home is making a 11-day tour of the Rochester region.

Climate Solutions Accelerator is bringing the home to communities in the region, offering a free, hands-on opportunity to learn how energy works inside the home and explore practical ways to save energy, improve comfort, reduce waste, and prepare for cleaner energy choices.

The featured exhibit, the Tiny PowerHouse, is an interactive tiny home designed by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County to make energy education easy to see and understand.

Visitors can step inside and explore common sources of energy loss, practical efficiency upgrades, and clean energy solutions that can support more comfortable, efficient, and energy-smart homes.

Exhibit topics include air leaks, insulation, renewable heating and cooling, solar energy, lighting, windows, appliances, DIY projects, and indoor air quality.

The Tiny PowerHouse Tour in Roc is designed for renters, homeowners, families, students, community organizations, neighborhood groups, and anyone interested in learning more about home energy use. Visitors will walk away with a better understanding of how homes lose energy, what improvements can make a difference, and what steps may help create healthier, more comfortable living spaces.

The exhibit is free to visit and will be available at locations throughout the Genesee-Finger Lakes region from June 16–26.

Tour Schedule:

• June 16: 12 to 3 p.m. at Rochester Museum and Science Center – 657 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14607
• June 17: 2:30 to 6 p.m. at Sodus Farmers’ Market – 58 W Main St, Sodus, NY 14551
• June 18: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hoag Library – 134 S Main St, Albion, NY 14411
• June 18: 5 to 7 p.m. at the Lyons Connections on the Canal – NY-14 & Empire State Trail, Lyons, NY 14489
• June 19: 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park – 353 Court St, Rochester, NY 14607
• June 20: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Geneva Farmers’ Market – 35 Lake Front Dr, Geneva, NY 14456
• June 21: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Broccolo’s Emissions Control Event – 2755 Penfield Rd, Fairport, NY 14450
• June 22: 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at MARC of Baden Senior Center – 86 Vienna St, Rochester, NY 14605
• June 23: 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Rochester Museum and Science Center – 657 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14607
• June 24: 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Rochester Museum and Science Center – 657 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14607
• June 25: 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Lockdown on Violence Event – Lewis St YMCA – 53 Lewis St, Rochester, NY 14605
• June 26: 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Rochester Museum and Science Center Open House – 657 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14607

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – A crowd of people watches the Albion ladder truck go down Main Street during Saturday’s parade for the Albion Strawberry Festival.

The parade brought out thousands of people along East Avenue and Main Street.

The two-day Albion Strawberry Festival has been a community celebration since 1986, with lots of food, live music, arts and crafts vendors, and the big parade.

The Damascus Shriners Mini-Cars were back in the parade after their debut last year and they were a clear crowd favorite.

Annette Finch served as the parade’s grand marshal. She worked more than 40 years at Community Action, assisting people in crisis situations. She also has been a very active volunteer in Albion’s recreation programs.

The Albion Betterment Committee had a float with Santa, and Natasha Wasuck, an ABC board member, was a reindeer. The Betterment Committee is working to develop a Santa museum on Main Street.

The Albion marching band performed patriotic music in tribute to the country’s 250^th anniversary. Several marching bands were in the parade.

The Albion Betterment Committee had a float with Santa, and Natasha Wasuck, an ABC board member, was a reindeer. The Betterment Committee is working to develop a Santa museum on Main Street.

Celes Paratore, an Orleans County 4-H’er, needed to scoop up a goat that ran out of energy near the end of the parade. Celes was promoting 4-H programs and the fair from July 27 to Aug. 1

Trellis Pore, pastor of the Shiloh Church in Albion, played music and brought a joyful presence to the parade. He was joined by several people from the  “judgement free” church.

Albion’s T-Ball and youth baseball teams tossed candy to eager youngsters along Main Street.

Kerry Panek and her grandchildren celebrated 40 years of Panek’s Pickin Patch on West Countyhouse Road.

Mr. Septic brought smiles to the crowd with this float. “You dump it, we pump it!” the business declared. Many businesses joined in the parade.

The Eye of Oden K9 Training had about 15 dogs and their handlers in the parade.

Justin Kania, front, and Josh Schoeberlein were out promoting Legendary Exterior Services.

Will Plummer served as king and Julia Graham was queen of the Strawberry Festival. Both are Albion High School students active in community service.

Orly the Ox and his brother Scout were in the parade. Orly debuted last year as the Orleans County bicentennial mascot. This year Orly is joined by his brother in promoting the country’s 250^th anniversary. Oxen were critical in the county’s early days, transporting pioneers and helping them to plant crops and work the land.

Dance Reflections by Miss Heather had a patriotic float for the country’s 250^th anniversary. Dance Reflections also is celebrating 20 years in Albion.

These quilters from the Town and Country Quilt Shop displayed patriotic quilts in honor of the 250^thanniversary of the country.

Jeremy Neal drives a 1955 Farmhall Cub tractor as part of the display for the CURE Foundation to raise funds and awareness for childhood cancer. Neal’s son Byron passed away from cancer at age 8 on April 14, 2023.

CSAT, the  Charter School for Applied Technologies from Buffalo, had a large presence with its marching band.

The Holley-Kendall marching band have been mainstays at the Strawberry Festival in recent years.

Photos by Tom Rivers: Kim Hazel, the Albion town clerk, helps to corral the turtles after the race in the Erie Canal this afternoon.

ALBION – The turtle race is one of the afternoon highlights during the second day of the Albion Strawberry Festival. There are usually 1,000 turtles in the race. This year the race was expanded with a capacity of 1,500. There ended up being 1,200 tickets sold. Each turtle represented two tickets – one in a green number and one in yellow.

Organizers also expanded the prizes from five for $1,000 total to six winners at $1,700 total.

The winners included: first place at $500 (two) – Kevin Sheehan and Mindy Recco; second place at $250 (two) – Joe Sidonio and Village of Albion (ticket bought by mayor Tim McMurray); third place at $100 (two) – Don Colquhoun and Tracey VanSkiver.

Several of winners opted to donate the prize winnings back to the festival.

The turtles get dumped from the Main Street bridge. From left include County legislator Skip Draper, and top ticket seller Jarred Saj, the Turtle, Strawberry Festival Princess Hazel Bringenberg, Queen Julia Graham, High School principal Jennifer Ashbery, Sheriff Chris Bourke, Orleans County Emergency Management director Justin Niederhofer, Albion mayor Tim McMurray, Albion Police Chief Dave Mogle and Aric Albright, Albion’s sewer plant superintendent.

Jarred Saj walks in the parade next to the Turtle mascot. Saj has been the perennial top ticket seller for the race. Thos year he set a new by selling 580 of the 1,200 tickets. He broke last year’s record of 480. Saj said he starts selling the tickets in February. They are $5 each or five for $20. The proceeds go towards helping to fund the festival.

Saj sold three of six winning tickets – Kevin Sheehan, Joe Sidonio and Don Colquhoun.

Corey Winters, director of the Orleans County Planning and Development Department, and Kim Hazel, the Albion town clerk, are in kayaks and they wait for the winning turtles.

A good-size crowd gathered along the canal to watch the action. The rubber turtles make quick work of the race due to some wind and the current in the canal.

After last year’s race lasted about a hour, this year’s was done in about 8 minutes.

Chris and Karen Watt have retired from the business

From left, Chris and Karen Watt are with Renee Hungerford, director of Community Action of Orleans and Genesee, and Main Street store manager Cassie Healy, after the Watts donated truckloads of merchandise to the store.

ALBION – Community Action’s Main Street Thrifts, Gifts and More Store recently received a massive donation of merchandise that will result in tremendous benefit to the store, and ultimately, the community.

“We are so excited about this generous gift,” said Renee Hungerford, director of Community Action of Orleans and Genesee. “Since I have been in healthcare, Karen has always been a strong advocate for me and my work, and for that I am truly grateful.”

Store manager Cassie Healy explained how the donation came about.

“Several weeks ago, I received a call from Karen asking if there was any way we could pick up some stuff from their gift shop,” Healy said. “She said there was shelving and lots of merchandise.”

“Lots” turned out to be an understatement.

“We filled our trucks twice and our van two or three times,” Healy said.

 Merchandise included the entire stock of Watts Farm former gift shop and farm market, such as garden and lawn décor, pictures, a lot of gift items (all new) and cabinets.

Karen Watt stands amid some of the items she recently donated to Community Action’s Main Street Thrifts, Gifts and More Store.

“This is going to help our entire agency,” Healy said. “We are going to send some shelving to our other locations. This merchandise will offer our customers new options when shopping and expand our customer base. There are many things we don’t usually have, such as outdoor flags, garden decorations and greeting cars. Our shelves are bursting at the seams.”

“We are incredibly grateful to Karen Watt and Watt Farms for their generous donations from the former farm market,” Hungerford said. “These items are a wonderful addition to our Main Street Corner Thrifts, Gifts and More store, helping us continue to offer quality merchandise at affordable proves for our community. Partnerships like this make a meaningful difference, and we really appreciate their support.”

The store is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday and from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays in the summer.

The store is located at 131 South Main St. in Albion.

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – The food court on East Bank Street was packed on Friday evening for the Albion Strawberry Festival.

There are about 25 food vendors this year for the festival. The festival expanded the food court area to include the village municipal lot at Platt and Bank Street.

The Strawberry Festival continues today. The two-day event first started in 1986.

Heidi Pask, left, and Tiffany Crawford have fun making a strawberry shortcake sundae outside the First Presbyterian Church of Albion, which hosted a chicken barbecue. Steven Crawford is in back. The trio are members of the Albion Music Boosters.

The band, Stanton, performed on the lawn in front of the County Courthouse. Mike Zelazny, front, plays the guitar while Greg Stanton is the lead singer. Matt Stanton is on bass (back right), Frank Sarchia on drums, and Rick Braham plays guitar (back left).

The Stanton band plays cover tunes from Doobie Brothers, Tom Petty, Tragically Hip, the Byrds, Joe Cocker, Traveling Wilburys, Barry McGuire, J.J. Cale, America, Allman Brothers, Eric Clapton, the Who, Beatles, Steppenwolf, Roy Orbison, Kiss, Rolling Stones, Monkees, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Bad Company, Marshall Tucker Band, Van Morrison and John Mellencamp.

A trackless train gave kids a ride around the Courthouse Square.

The family fun center included many games, face painting, bounce houses, a small fry tractor pull and also a chance to pet a rabbit. The Cornell Cooperative Extension brought the rabbit and also made tickets available for the upcoming fair at buy one get one free ($10 for week-long admission).

Abby Smith, the CCE communications coordinator and digital literacy program coordinator, joined CCE executive director Robertt Batt with the rabbit. The mini lop is owned by Batt’s daughter, Gracie.

The band V3 performed at the west end of East bank Street in the food court. They are shown singing “Zombie” by The Cranberries. V3 includes lead singer Kole Moore, Alex Fitzak on guitar, Jesse Neely on bass, and Shelby Starr, the drummer.

Today’s schedule includes:

• 8 a.m. – 5k/8k race with start on East State Street near Courthouse
• 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. – Craft vendors open (Craft Area Sponsored by Renovation Lodge #97: Albion Masons)
• 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. – Food vendors open with new options and locations for 2026!
• 10 a.m. – Parade (Sponsored by Nathan Lyman) Marching bands include: The Gates Keystone Police Pipes & Drums, Downbeat Percussion, Mighty St. Joes Alumni Drum & Bugle Corps, Holley/Kendall HS, Pembroke Dragons, Batavia HS, Albion Purple Eagles, Mark Time Marchers, Damascus Shriners Mini-Cars & much more!
• 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Cruise-In on East State Street (Sponsored by Renovation Lodge #97: Albion Masons)
• 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. – Soul Street, Food Court East Stage
• 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. – Black Cherry Voodoo, Courthouse Square Stage
• 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. –Festival Family Fun Center Free Fun: Main Street with Interactive Family Games, Bounce Houses, McDonalds Characters (2 to 5 p.m.) Other Fun for a Fee: Main Street – “I Got it!”, Face Painting and Caricatures
• 1 to 5 p.m. – Car Seat Safety Check, Albion Police Department, East Park Street
• 1 to 5 p.m. – Child Safety IDs, Orleans County Sheriff’s Department, East Park Street
• 2 p.m. – Turtle Race, Erie Canal Bridge
• 3 to 5 p.m. – Chris Moore, outside at Marti’s on Main, 20 S. Main St.
• 3 to 5:30 p.m. – 104 Country, Food Court West Stage
• 5:30 to 8 p.m. – The Who Dats Band, Food Court East Stage

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – Everly Sprague, 3, of Kendall gets a strawberry painted on her face by artist Alex Thom of Lockport.

The Albion Strawberry Festival started today and has a full schedules of events over two days.

Becky Karls leads the festival committee in her third year as chairperson. She said there are 75 arts and crafts vendors, 25 food vendors and 25 other businesses with displays at the festival.

She said the committee has worked hard the past year on the festival.

Trevor Thaine is committee leader of the arts and crafts vendors. The 75 vendors this year is up from 65 last year. Thaine said the vendors come from as far as Oswego, Albany and the Finger Lakes. Most are from Orleans County and the neighboring counties.

The crafters like the small town feel of the Strawberry Festival and the big crowd after the parade on Saturday. The parade starts at 10 a.m.

Thaine has been a vendor the past 15 years as an ambassador for Tastefully Simple.

Christine Mann serves up a pulled pork meal with cole slaw at Mann vs. Food which she runs with her husband, Scott, who is in the back. East Bank Street is full of food vendors.

A customer looks to try some of the kettle corn, which was available in several flavors, including strawberry.

Pastor Al Wilson and his wife Ykeeta serve up a strawberry shortcake in abooth run by the Royal Body Shop Ministries.

The festival schedule for today includes:

• 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. – Food vendors open
• 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. – Craft vendors open (Craft area sponsored by Renovation Lodge #97: Albion Masons)
• 3 to 7 p.m. – Festival Family Fun Center Free Fun: Main Street Pedal Tractor Pull, Interactive Family Games, Bounce Houses
• Other Fun for a Fee: Main Street – “I Got it!,” Trackless Train, Face Painting and Caricatures
• 4 to 6:30 p.m. – Chicken BBQ and Strawberry Shortcake, First Presbyterian Church
• 4 to 6:30 p.m. – Feedback, Food Court East Stage
• 5 to 7 p.m. – Stanton Rock N Roll Band Courthouse Square Stage
• 6:30 to 9 p.m. – V3, Food Court West Stage
• 7 to 9 p.m. – Jim Aina outside at Marti’s on Main, 20 S. Main St.

Diane Shiffer is a much loved social media influencer who spreads joy, encourages kindness

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – Diane Shiffer holds a copy of her book, “The Smallest of Joys: How to Create Your Own Magic, Let Your Best Be Enough & Find Contentment Exactly as You Are.” The 248-page book became available in April and has earned rave reviews. On Amazon, it has a 4.9 rating out of 5 from 150 reviewers.

Shiffer has been featured in Forbes magazine, The Buffalo News and interviewed on many other podcasts. She also has been mentioned in The New York Times and is included on best-seller lists.

“Whether you’ve been following Diane for years or are just meeting her now, this book is like a warm teacup in your hands and a soft blanket around your shoulders,” Amazon states in promoting the book. “A modern antidote to hustle culture and self-criticism, it’s a reminder that kindness—especially toward yourself—can be a powerful way to live.”

On Thursday she signed copies of her book at Hoag Library. Shiffer has more than 2 million followers through Instagram and TikTok on social media where she is known as the Cubby Vintage Nana. She spreads messages of kindness and loving others.

Shiffer, 68, is a retired Head Start educator and social worker. She started to go viral on social media during the pandemic in 2020 when she posted short videos of her in daily life – baking, sewing, doing household chores, sharing words about kindness, and showcasing some of her vintage finds, such as potholders.

Shiffer, after her book-signing on Thursday, said she was happy to meet people in person. She appreciates the connection through social media and the positive feedback about her book.

“It is very affirming to see it resonating with people,” she said. I appreciate it so much.”

Diane Shiffer signs a book for Judy Tucker of Albion. Shiffer’s son Noah is sitting next to her.

“She’s positive and she shares her joy,” said Tucker, a retired high school librarian. “She is peaceful and loving.”

Shiffer’s son Noah, 27, is a lineman for RG&E. He was earned his Eagle Scout rank in Albion in Troop 64. He said he is pleased to see so many people with a deep appreciation for his mother.

“She’s always been a phenomenon in my life,” Noah said. “She’s my superhero. People ask is she really that sweet in real life. I tell them she’s even better.”

This photo shows Diane Shiffer signing a book for Lori Laine. Shiffer brought a vintage tablecloth for the book signing.

“She’s so calming,” Laine said. “It’s like sitting and having coffee with your grandma.”

Laine said she has been following Shiffer’s videos for at least two years.

“People want to get back to the basics,” Laine said.

Shiffer signs a copy of her book for Rebecca Schiffer, 39, of Medina, who was excited to meet the author. Schiffer brought her two daughters, Mabel and Harriet, right.

“I have been following her for years,” Schiffer said about Diane. “She is always doing the right thing. She is so inspirational.”

Schiffer said Diane is kind, and also courageous. The author wore a “Black Lives Matter” pin during the book-signing.

“She is incredible and spreads so much joy,” Schiffer said. “She stands up for what she believes in.”

Cindy Albone of Clarendon wanted to meet Shiffer in person and attended the book-signing. Albone sees the power in Shiffer’s message.

“It really is the little things,” Albone said. “Most people are looking for something simpler, rather than the chaos.”

Photos and article by Natalie Baron, correspondent

ALBION – The Albion jazz band, led by director Matt Confer, kicked off the Village of Albion summer concert series on Wednesday evening at Bullard Park. Their performance was a strong start to the concert series.

Lily Brigham (left) and Phoebe Allen (right) enthusiastically provided vocals during one of the songs.

The crowd was a lively one, giving a warm applause after each song. Audience member Al Hand gushed, “I think this is a really cool event, and I’m glad this town has events like this where we can all come together and enjoy music.”

Vendors like Jeff Holler were hard at work serving up delicious food. Renovation Lodge #97 for the Albion Masons sold Italian sausage, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, hot dogs, French fries, taco fries, tacos in chip bags, beef on weck, cheese fries, fried dough, and noodles and vegetables with teriyaki sauce, which customers could add their own protein to. They also had available snow cones and lemonade, both of which had watermelon, strawberry, grape, and blue raspberry flavoring options.

There were several other vendors who set up shop that evening. The Webber Café by Sav’s Event and Catering Co. from Lyndonville sold charturie boxes, chicken salad, and broccoli salad. The bakery Confection Connection from South Main Street on Meadowbrook Drive in Albion had loaded stuffed cookies, brownies, muffins, and breads, including sourdough. Also present were Ouie’s Pizza and Last Call Cocktail Company, a mobile bar caterer.

Odd Rodz Car Club was at the concert, showing off their interesting rides. Their goal is to make a car show. Lee Thompson (left) stands by his Blue 2008 Ford Mustang GT. Jerry Stanton (right) is pictured next to his Red 73 Dodge Charger. Thompson will be in the Strawberry Festival’s parade and the festival’s car show. Stanton will appear at the car show, most likely with a different car.

Kids of many ages had a lot of fun at the splash pad. It was a great way to beat the heat that evening.

After the Albion Jazz Band, Sam Kingbury sang and performed country songs on acoustic guitar. Kingbury has been on an acoustic guitar journey over the last two years. He routinely performs at concerts and in bars. He is a 2022 graduate of SUNY Brockport.

The evening was a smash hit with the audience and was only the start of what this summer concert series has to offer.

The 2026 concert lineup at Bullard will feature:

• June 17: Stanton
• June 24: Real News
• July 1: Savage Cabbage
• July 3: 4 p.m. – Ryan & Company; 6 p.m. – Feedback, Side Doors, Road Less Traveled; 7:45 p.m. – The Who Dats
• July 8: Mixed Experience
• July 15: One and Done
• July 22: Coupe de Villes
• July 29: Sky Cats
• August 5: The Dave Viterna Group
• August 12: Highway 31
• August 19 & 26 Rain Dates

Diane Shiffer will sign copies of her book, ‘The Smallest of Joys’ which urges patience without yourself while encountering life’s challenges. She also encourages people to “embrace your inner weirdo.”

ALBION – Hoag Library will be hosting a book signing event today by Diane Shiffer, a senior citizen with more than 2 million followers on social media where she is known as the Chubby Vintage Nana.

Shiffer has a new book out that is published by Hay House LLC. The 256-page book came out in hardcover on April 14.

“The Smallest of Joys” is an invitation to slow down and embrace yourself. Shiffer brings messages about:

• Embrace your inner weirdo
• Be patient with yourself through life’s changes
• Keep a tidy home without overwhelm
• Develop a positive body image
• Heal from heartbreak
• Connect with others through gratitude
• Find everyday magic in the simplest moments

“Whether you’ve been following Diane for years or are just meeting her now, this book is like a warm teacup in your hands and a soft blanket around your shoulders,” Amazon states in promoting the book. “A modern antidote to hustle culture and self-criticism, it’s a reminder that kindness—especially toward yourself—can be a powerful way to live.”

Shiffer is a retired educator and social worker. She started to go viral on social media during the pandemic in 2020 when she posted short videos of her in daily life – baking, sewing, doing household chores, sharing words about kindness, and showcasing some of her vintage finds, such as potholders.

She speaks directly to her followers in her videos, calling them “my sweeties” and “my dears.”

The book talk will be at 5 p.m. today at Hoag, 134 South Main St.

Concerts will be offered Monday through Friday at spots around the county

ALBION – A busy summer concert season gets started today with the Albion Jazz Band playing at Bullard Park beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Bullard will be hosting Wednesday concerts until Aug. 12, with rain dates on Aug. 19 and 26.

The Village of Albion Recreation Department plans the events, which include food vendors and a car cruise each event.

The 2026 concert lineup at Bullard includes:

• June 10: Albion Jazz Band
• June 17: Stanton
• June 24: Real News
• July 1: Savage Cabbage
• July 3: 4 p.m. – Ryan & Company; 6 p.m. – Feedback, Side Doors, Road Less Traveled; 7:45 p.m. – The Who Dats
• July 8: Mixed Experience
• July 15: One and Done
• July 22: Coupe de Villes
• July 29: Sky Cats
• August 5: The Dave Viterna Group
• August 12: Highway 31
• August 19 & 26 Rain Dates

The Yates Community Library Concerts on the Lawn start Monday June 29 at 6:30 p.m. and continue through August. 31.

OONA and Friends of the Orleans County Marine Park have concerts on Tuesday evenings from 6 to 8:30 p.m. beginning June 23 at the County Marine Park in Carlton on Route 98.

The Village of Albion’s concerts at Bullard Park will be on Wednesdays from June 10 to Aug. 12.

Blue Thursdays starts next week on June 18 in Medina at State Street Park with musicians playing the blues. Concerts are from 6 to 8 p.m. and go until Aug. 6.

The Village of Holley’s concerts at the gazebo on the Erie Canal will be on Fridays, beginning July 3 and going to Aug. 28. The concerts are from 6 to 8 p.m.

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – The royalty for this weekend’s Albion Strawberry Festival were recognized during the Albion Rotary Club meeting on Thursday.

From left include princess Kinzie Healy, king Will Plummer, queen Julia Graham and princess Hazel Bringenberg.

They will be part of Saturday’s parade at 10 a.m. and will serve as festival ambassadors.

This year’s festival theme, “Gather and Celebrate: A Big Berry 250^th in honor of our Nation’s 250^th.” The royalty candidates were asked to write a 250-word reflection on the theme.

Plummer, a senior, wrote in his essay, “Albion’s rich history and small-town character make it an ideal place to honor America’s past while looking forward to the future. Community events such as parades, historical exhibits, concerts and patriotic ceremonies can bring residents together in a spirit of gratitude and remembrance.”

Graham, a sophomore, said Albion students have helped preserve historical sites and highlight other important local history, while also beautifying the town with murals and other projects. She praised festival organizers for putting on the 38^th Strawberry Festival this weekend.

Kinzie Healy, an eighth-grader, said the festival is an opportunity to celebrate shared values of democracy, community and hope for the future. “When gathering on these historic streets we aren’t just eating strawberry desserts, we are honoring 250 years of a ‘berry’ big American journey,” she wrote.

Hazel Bringenberg, a fifth-grader, said the local parades, chicken barbecues and fireworks are all a great way to celebrate the USA’s 250^th anniversary.

Katelyn Viza, a sophomore at Albion, holds her first place poster that will be used on Strawberry Festival brochures and posters.

The second place winner is senior Rosalee McCormick, left, while freshman Bonnie Ward won third place.

Click here to see the festival schedule for June 12-13.