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.

Students urged to pursue kindness, service in their lives, careers

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – Nisi Beltran Roblero receives a blessing and prayer from Father Mark Noonan, priest of the Holy Family Parish. The Rev. Susan Thaine, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Albion, and Elder John Kubiniec of the First Presbyterian also offered a blessing to graduates during Sunday’s baccalaureate service at Holy Family Parish.

The service and blessings were optional for seniors, and 30 chose to attend the service at Holy Family which was organized by the Albion Ministerium.

Father Noonan urged the graduates to choose meekness over anger.

“The world is so much in need of people who will look out for others,” he said. “Never be afraid of the adventure of following God with your full heart.”

Julia Button lights a candle at the altar. Students were encouraged to strive to be a light in the world.

“The candle is a symbol of the light in you, of the light that God placed in you and that you carry with you into the world,” said the Rev. Marsha Rivers, who is pastor of the First Baptist Church in Albion and the Gaines Carlton Community Church.

Albion High School Select Choir members sang “Lakeside Lullaby.” In front from left include Lily Brigham, Kailee Anstey and Rosalie McCormick. In back are Adelaide Pettit, Gideon Pask, Yo’Hanel Harris and Julia Graham.

The Clarinet Choir, directed by Matthew Confer, played Variations & Fugue on the Theme by Mozart.

The Rev. Susan Thaine, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, was the keynote speaker. She delivered a message, “Overcome Evil with Good.” Thaine said the students are at “one of those threshold moments in life” at an area where the land meets the water. It is a moment of possibility. She urged them to orient their life towards a relationship with God, and strive to not let the world mold their thoughts, actions and sense of value.

Social media can give a warped view of what’s right and wrong, she said.

“Turn this world upside everywhere you go with the good manifested in your life,” Thaine said.

Kaitlynn Basinait reads a scripture, Ephesians 4: 21-25.

Other students who spoke at the service, sharing scriptures or a blessing, include Nisi Beltran Roblero, Gideon Pask and Abigail Kincaid.

Sister Dolores O’Dowd leads the group in a unison prayer.

“We look forward with hope, knowing your work is not yet accomplished. Our futures are not yet written, but our paths are secure, for you are our shepherd, and you guide us into life and love.”

The Rev. Marsha Rivers prays over Lindsay Crawford during the service at Holy Family Parish.

McQuaid Jesuit rowers passing through Orleans County today on day 1 of week-long trek

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – The McQuaid Jesuit crew team was out this afternoon rowing along the Erie Canal. They are shown in a photo taken from the Presbyterian Road canal bridge.

The group left Buffalo in the morning and is headed to Brockport on day 1 of an eight-day “Row for Hope” to Albany. The team is raising money for Rochester’s House of Mercy that serves people experiencing homelessness.

The journey will cover 368 miles over the eight days. The group left Buffalo in the morning and stopped in Medina just after noon for lunch. They will stay overnight in Brockport tonight.

There are 11 boys on the team making the trek across the canal. They plan to put in about eight hours a day of rowing. The schedule also includes camping at Palmyra, Weedsport, Brewerton, Rome and Glenville.

For more information about the Row4Hope or to donate, visit http://houseofmercyrochester.org/rowforhope/.

The team heads east on the canal, with the Allen’s Bridge road canal bridge in sight.

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – Neveya Barnes, an Albion High School senior, reacts after seeing her friend Nisi Beltran Roblero badly injured on a car. It was a scene from a drunk driving simulation this morning outside Albion High School. Albion police officer Chris Glogowski was among many first responders as part of the simulation.

The school district and local first responders wanted to send a message about being safe during prom and the upcoming graduation parties. Albion’s prom is this evening at the White Birch in Lyndonville.

Holley also had a DWI crash simulation this morning.

Aubrey Gannon is led by stretcher to a Mercy Flight EMS ambulance. Albion firefighters used the Jaws of Life to extricate her from the car. Another student, Kaitlynn Basinait, also was put on a stretcher and into an ambulance as part of the simulation.

Ashleigh Stornelli, an Orleans County sheriff’s deputy and the school resource officer at Albion, gave students a simple message: “Have fun and be safe.”

The young drivers were urged to be extra careful with opportunities for late nights and drinking.

The “100 Deadliest Days” is the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when fatal teen crashes increase dramatically. AAA used that phrase after examining troubling data regarding fatal crashes among teen drivers.

Nationwide, 6,697 people died in teen driver-related summertime crashes over a ten-year period from 2013 to 2022. That is nearly half of the total number of those killed in teen-driver crashes for the entire rest of the year in that span.

The parents of Nisi Beltran Roblero, Eladio and Loyda, are shaken after being told their daughter has been pronounced dead by County Coroner Julie Woodworth. Even though it was role playing, Nisi’s parents said they were overwhelmed by the scene.

Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home brought a hearse to take Nisi from the scene.

There was also a mock sentencing where Gideon Pask, the driver of the vehicle that caused the accident, was sentenced to state prison, a $5,000 fine, five years of probation, and a one-year revocation of his driver’s license. Once he starts driving again, he’ll have to use an interlock ignition device that tests his BAC.

Pask is led out of the LGI in the high school by Lt. Adam hazel of the Sheriff’s Department. He was sentenced by Albion Town Justice Gary Moore.

Orleans County District Attorney Susan Howard, left, prosecuted Pask for first-degree vehicular manslaughter, aggravated driving while intoxicated and reckless endangerment in the first degree.

She pushed away a call for leniency and probation only for the Pask’s lawyer.

“This is about Nisi and her family,” Howard said. “It’s not about revenge or retribution. It’s about justice.”

Diana Fulcomer, a senior prevention educator for UConnectCare, urged students to watch over each other, especially if they see others engaging in toxic drinking where their lives could be at risk from toxic alcohol poisoning.

She told them about the Red Watch challenge where they can wear a red band to remind them to watch out for one another.

Students were urged to call for help immediately if they see someone who is vomiting from alcohol, or if they don’t respond when shouted at, if they have very slow breathing, can’t stand up, have pale/bluish skin or an irregular/slow pulse.

“Be a band of students and watch over one another, and actually care,” she said.

Photos by Tom Rivers: Jay Kovaleski, a high school physical education teacher, is congratulated by Albion Board of Education member Porsche Taylor on his impending retirement. Kovaleski also has been a long-time coach for swimming and tennis, helping Albion win several league titles during his tenure. He and other retirees were recognized by the school district during a reception Monday before the BOE meeting.

ALBION – The school district on Monday recognized retiring teachers for their long commitment to students and also honored other retiring staff who have been integral to the district operations. Altogether, the 13 retirees have worked 304 years at the district.

“The district is in a better place because you are in it,” Board of Education President Linda Weller said during a reception before the monthly BOE meeting.

District Superintendent Mickey Edwards first recognized three BOE members who are ending their tenures on the board.

David Sidari has served in the volunteer role since 1999. He retired in 2024, but came back about six months later in January 2025 to fill a vacancy.

Kurt Schmitt has served six years on the board and been active with the Finance & Audit, Facility and Safety, and Code of Conduct committees. Trellis Pore is finishing a five-year term. He has been on the Code of Conduct Committee.

Laura Simboli, the Albion school district treasurer, is congratulated on her retirement by Rick Recckio II, Assistant Superintendent for Finance. The school district honored retirees before the Board of Education meeting on Monday.

The 13 retirees from the district include:

Laura Simboli is retiring after 11 years at the District Office. She started as a payroll clerk and has been the treasurer the past four years.

Rick Recckio II, assistant superintendent for finance, said Simboli exudes kindness and has expertise in projected fund balance, cash flow and grants.

“I truly cannot imagine this place without her,” he said. “She has been the heart of this office in so many ways.”

Greg Staines, a computer specialist for the past 16 years, shakes hands with Joe Navarra, the information technology director at the school district.

Navarra said Staines has a knack where he can fix anything, without ever being ruffled by a challenge.

“He is a kind person who makes the workday better by just being around him,” Navarra said. “He has been a great person and friend to all of us.”

Angela Conway, elementary school principal, congratulates Dana Martin for his career in the elementary school.

Martin has been a long-time fifth grade teacher at the school. He started with Albion in 1997 as a Japanese teacher and then was an AIS teacher. He has led the Japanese Club the past 29 years and organized many cultural events at the school.

“He has a calm demeanor and genuine care for the students,” Conway said. “He is a thoughtful listener.”

Among his colleagues, Martin is also known as the “science guru,” she said.

Phil Gardner worked 30 years for the Albion School District.

Phil Gardner started at Albion as a long-term sub in 1996 and then worked nearly 30 years in the classroom, with most of his career in second grade.

“He is patient, soft spoken and kind,” said Conway, the school principal. “He creates an environment where very child feels valued.”

Robert Epperson, a first grade teacher, is retiring after 27 years. He also taught fourth grade at Albion. He was praised for his compassion and commitment to his students.

Theresa McClellan, a speech teacher and language pathologist at Albion for 27 years, was praised “for helping students find their voice.”

Beth Dunn and Terri Monacelli, teacher aides in Prekindergarten, are both retiring. Dunn worked 25 years for the district and is well regarded for her compassion to students and “incredible sense of humor,” Conway said.

Monacelli worked 31 years for Albion, starting as an aide in the former Even Start program. She has worked in PreK for the past 27 years. She is very prepared and organized, “but what sets Terri apart is her heart,” Conway said.

Terri Monacelli is retiring after 31 years as an aide in the elementary school.

In the Middle School, there are two retirees. Greg Martillotta is retired after 31 years as a music teacher including running the middle school band program. He retired in September.

Lee Sheehan retired in December after 18 years with Albion. She started in the elementary school and taught sixth grade the past eight years.

Brad Pritchard, the middle school principal, said Sheehan was committed to student growth and often supported her students outside of the classroom, attending dance recitals, school musicals and other events.

Lee Sheehan is congratulated by Board of Education member Kelly Kirby.

From the High School, three teachers are retiring.

Ann Sentiff is retiring after 10 years as a high school science teacher. She joined the district after farming for about 20 years. She also was a substitute teacher for four years.

Shelly Daggs has taught math and statistics for 28 years. She was unable to attend the reception because she was helping local students get ready for a horse show. Daggs has helped lead a 4-H horse program for many years.

Jennifer Ashbery, the high school principal, said Daggs has been “an outstanding teacher, colleague and friend.”

Jay Kovaleski is retiring after 21 years with Albion. He started his career teaching six years in the Rochester City School District. He taught high school physical education and also was the girls volleyball coach as well as the long-time leader of the tennis and varsity swimming programs.

Ashbery praised him for helping to bring out the best in students with the motto: “Play with Purpose, Swim with Purpose and Live with Purpose.”

Editor’s Note: Shelly Daggs, Ann Sentiff, Greg Martillotta, Robert Epperson, Theresa McClellan and Beth Dunn didn’t attend the reception on Monday.