By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 12 June 2026 at 2:48 pm
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.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 12 June 2026 at 11:22 am
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
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 11 June 2026 at 9:20 am
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.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 10 June 2026 at 10:14 am
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.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 8 June 2026 at 3:45 pm
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 250th in honor of our Nation’s 250th.” 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 38th 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 250th 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.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 8 June 2026 at 8:33 am
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.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 7 June 2026 at 4:20 pm
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.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 5 June 2026 at 1:12 pm
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.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 4 June 2026 at 5:16 pm
Photo by Tom Rivers
ALBION – The Albion Rotary Club today presented three scholarships. The recipients include, from left: Neveya Barnes, Kaitlin Bennett and Will Plummer. The Rotary Club meets at the Tavern on the Ridge.
Neveya Barnes was awarded the Dick Eddy “Service above Self” Scholarship. This $1,250 scholarship is awarded in memory of Eddy, a community leader, businessman, and Rotarian, who committed his life to the principle of Service above Self.
This scholarship is awarded to a senior who demonstrates a personal commitment to community service and leadership, and displays high potential for future accomplishment.
Barnes has proven that she embodies the principles of “Service Above Self,” said Bonnie Malakie, the Rotary scholarship chairperson. Barnes is graduating 4th in the 2026 class academically with 97.2 average and will be attending the University of Buffalo for Social Work.
“Neveya has proven her commitment to the community and desire to serve others by volunteering almost 600 hours since 9th grade, including volunteering as a Girl Scout Camp Counselor all four years and with the Special Olympics three years,” Malakie said.
Barnes also has been involved in bowling, dancing, instrumental music, musical theater, chorus, Girl Scouts, choir, bell-ringing and other activities. She is currently the class president and has served as a social work intern at the Elementary School.
“I truly believe that every person deserves to live peacefully and have chances to explore their aspirations,” she wrote in her essay. “I want to give back kindness to the world that has offered me so many opportunities.”
Kaitlin Bennett will receive the Edward B. Archbald Memorial Scholarship, a $ 1,250 scholarship in memory of Ed Archbald, who was a farmer, philanthropist, outdoorsman, and a 70-year member of Rotary.
This scholarship is presented to a graduating senior pursuing a college education who shares Archbald’s love for sports, recreational activities, community service, and work experience.
Bennett has proven that she has a vision very similar to that of Ed Archbald and has demonstrated this through her involvement in sports, recreational activities, agriculture, and community service, Malakie said.
Bennett is 5th in the class with a GPA of 97.15 and will be attending Monroe Community College, which recruited her to play softball. She will be majoring in business administration and accounting.
She plans to return to her family farm after MCC and be the fourth generation at the operation.
“My biggest goal is to continue keeping the farm alive and prospering,” she wrote in her essay. “I hope to someday be able to give my kids the same farm lifestyle that I am grateful to have had.”
Bennett has volunteered in many capacities for over 200 hours including the Barre Presbyterian Church, softball with younger students, Travel Softball and the FFA. She has been actively involved in softball, dance, FFA, and 4-H for all of her high school years, while also working at AL Bennett & Sons in many capacities, Dresser’s Dairy Farm and the Orleans County Elections Department.
William Plummer won the Rotary Career Advancement Prize, a $500 prize for a graduating senior entering a field that doesn’t require a traditional college education, such as a technical field, agriculture, law enforcement, or business.
Plummer is planning to join the US Air Force in August to further his education in engineering. Once he completes his service, he would like to continue his education at Alfred University, where he has been accepted, and to eventually return to the area to start a small business.
He has a GPA of 92.9 and is 13th in the class. He has volunteered regularly for FFA and other organizations, has played baseball and been in cross country for four years. He also has been actively involved in many other groups including FFA, the marching band, National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, and Skills USA. He also has worked at Kirby’s Farm and The Village House. In the Air Force he wants to pursue mechanical technology and business management, and explore air traffic control person or an airframe maintenance inspector.
His goal is to run a small motor-vehicle workshop in Albion.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 2 June 2026 at 9:56 am
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.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 2 June 2026 at 8:21 am
Don Adams brings lots of optimism, joy in teaching kids to exercise and swim
Photos by Tom Rivers
ALBION – Don Adams, an Albion teacher since 1993, is congratulated by Mickey Edwards, the district superintendent, after Adams was honored as Albion’s Educator of the year on Monday evening. Board of Education President Linda Weller is at left and BOE member Porsche Taylor is at right.
Adams was praised for bringing so much joy and optimism in his job as a elementary physical education teacher. He also teaches swim lessons over the summer and has coached soccer, basketball, softball and track in his tenure, most often working with modified teams of seventh- and eighth-graders.
“He leads with kindness and integrity,” Edwards said in announcing Adams as the Educator of the Year.
Adams received several nominations for the award. He has been a dedicated coach and mentor to other teachers.
“Whether in the classroom, on the field, or throughout the community, Don is a constant positive presence who demonstrates respect, compassion, and genuine care for all students, faculty, staff, and community members,” Edwards said. “His character, leadership, and commitment have made a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to work and learn alongside him.”
Adams said he loves working with younger students and being a part of the Albion school district.
“The young kids love to jump, run and play,” he said. “I try to have a huge influence and impact on every kid.”
Over the years he has taught hundreds of children to learn how to swim. He helps them overcome their fear of the water, and gradually build their confidence in the pool.
“I want to thank all of the students,” he said. “That’s what this is all about.”
Don Adams said he is thankful to work at the Albion school district. He thanked his family, the teachers he had growing up, and all of the students he’s had over a 33-year career. Up front from left include Board of Education members Kurt Schmitt, Linda Weller and Porsche Taylor.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 31 May 2026 at 3:22 pm
Wood fired pizza mobile business will continue
Photos by Tom Rivers
ALBION – The Alexander family completed a busy day Saturday at Dubby’s Tailgate, the last one at 165 Platt St. for Dubby’s.
Brian and Rebecca Alexander opened the business about 5 ½ years ago. They said lease and building issues forced them to close Dubby’s Tailgate but they are hopeful Dubby’s Tailgate will be back at another location in the future.
“This is a bump in the road and not a dead end,” Brian said on Saturday night.
The top photo includes Brian and Rebecca and their five children as well as employee Madison Muckle at far right. Pictured from left include Brian, Maxine, Rebecca, Barrett, Abby, Michael, Lily Strickland and Madison Muckle. The Alexanders employed about 10 people at Dubby’s outside of their family over the years.
Dubby’s operated out of a 10,000-square-foot warehouse that proved a great venue for cornhole tournaments, parties, benefits, and other special events, including a wine-tasting after party with musicians for the Albion Merchants Association, Orleans County’s Family Game Night and the Home and garden Show for the Chamber of Commerce.
Rebecca Alexander cooked out of a wood-fired oven on Saturday. Her husband Brian and their daughter Abby also are shown in the busy kitchen. Abby said she racked up 18,000 steps by the end of evening.
Dubby’s will continue the wood-fired pizza mobile business that started about eight years ago. This Friday they will be at the Red Rocks Ponds RV Resort on Canal Road in Holley.
The Alexanders said they appreciated the strong community support for Dubby’s Tailgate, which featured the restaurant and many tailgate games, including cornhole, pool, “Fowling” a combination of football and bowling, Skeeball, darts and other activities.
The Alexanders said they are proud the concept as an “eater-tainment” business worked. They made many friends and were pleased to see the many benefits raise money for people in a health crisis.
Brian and Rebecca Alexander are shown by a Dubby’s Tailgate mural inside the warehouse that offered many games for people to have fun. Dubby’s hosted popular cornhole leagues and tournaments. Some of those tournaments had 100 teams, and brought in professional players.
Debbie Prest helped put on some of the benefits, and has been a loyal customer from day one at Dubby’s Tailgate. One of the benefits was in her honor after she was diagnosed with cancer.
“They have definitely contributed to the community and to everybody,” Prest said on Saturday at a counter inside Dubby’s.
She praised the Alexanders for not charging a rental fee to host the benefits, and they welcomed outside groups to cook chicken barbecues on site as additional fundraisers for the beneficiaries of the benefits even though Dubby’s didn’t get any direct revenue from the chicken barbecues.
Dubby’s also had plenty of space to put baskets up for raffle. Some of the benefits had well over 100 baskets and other larger items.
Prest said she admires how the family with five children works well together.
There were more than 150 baskets up for raffle on July 20, 2025 during a benefit at Dubby’s for Debbie Prest. Dubby’s hosted many benefits and community events in the past five years.
Tina and Jeremy Neal often would dine out at Dubby’s, meeting there for dinner after her Friday shift at Ace Hardware. Their late son Byron loved the cheese pizza at Dubby’s. His parents would often order that pizza in his honor.
“We adore these people,” Tina said about the Alexanders. “They are lovely people.”
On Saturday, Tina ordered pizza logs while Jeremy had an Uncle Tony pizza with meatballs and creamy garlic drizzle.
Mike Beach has been the cornhole league coordinator the past five years. Dubby’s proved a great venue for the league and tournaments. Albion is located between Rochester and Buffalo and the tournaments drew players from both metro areas.
Dubby’s also had space for 14 boards to be played at once. Most other tournament sites have space for 5 to 8 boards. Dubby’s also has the restaurant and bar on site, where many locations might just offer pizza slices and hot dogs.
“People love it here,” Beach said on Saturday after a final cornhole tournament. “It had the best of everything.”
He was happy to coordinate the league and tournaments, pleased to see people socializing in Albion.
“Here you had a place to hang out,” he said. “There was nothing like it. We’ve met so many people and had so much fun here the past five years.”
Brian and Rebecca said they want to recreate Dubby’s Tailgate at another location. They learned some lessons with the Platt Street location, and they know the business model works.
“We’re not going out because we weren’t unsuccessful,” Rebecca said. “We were just hitting our groove.”
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 30 May 2026 at 6:43 pm
Logan Kast led the project for Eagle Scout rank
Photos by Tom Rivers
ALBION – Logan Kast, a Boy Scout in Troop 164 in Albion, led scouts today in putting a garden in behind UConnectCare’s residence for 25 women on Butts Road.
Logan, a junior in high school, has been in scouts since first grade. He worked to put in the garden for his Eagle Scout project.
He said he hopes the garden is therapeutic for the residents.
He has completed all of his merit badges and the project will fulfill the requirements to earn scouting’s highest honor.
Logan will follow his brother Tyler and father John as Eagle Scouts.
Jax Gotte works on the garden with other scouts. Other scouts who helped today, besides Logan Kast and Jax Gotte, include Stryker Braley, Leo Gotte, Jack Breuilly, Peter Stritzinger, Sebastian Stritzinger and Colton Durow, as well as scout leaders Jeff Braley and Ben Metcalf.
Logan Kast works on the garden with the other scouts. Logan appreciated local donations to the project, including brown mulch and gravel from Art Hill Construction, pavers from Kast Farms, flowers from Roberts Farm Markets and Kirby’s Farm Market, and a bench from Kathy Kast.
Logan said he plans to attend Texas A&M after he graduates from Albion to pursue range land management and wildlife biology. His brother Tyler and sister Sierra graduated from Texas A&M.
Logan said he is grateful through the opportunities through Boy Scouts.
“I love helping my community, being outdoors and being around nature,” he said.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 29 May 2026 at 2:53 pm
Dawn Hollenbeck has started chemo for lymphoma
Provided photos
ALBION – Members of the Albion senior class had their “prank” on Thursday, but didn’t get into any mischief. Instead seniors stopped teachers and other visitors and asked for donations to park in the school lots.
The top photo shows one of their signs, and seniors Gideon Pask and Neveya Barnes.
The fundraiser took in $1,125.80 for the family of Dawn Hollenbeck, a mother of 14 who has been diagnosed with large B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma, stage 3. One of her children is Victoria Hollenbeck, an Albion senior. Mrs. Hollenbeck also has 11 grandchildren.
This group of seniors includes, from left: Victoria Hollenbeck, Abby Kincaid, Julia Button and Aubrey Gannon.
Dawn Hollenbeck started chemotherapy treatments last week. She and her husband Brian are long-time Albion residents.
Dawn worked for many years at Burger King and most recently at Taco Bell.
Her husband is disabled. He previously owned a pest extermination business.
The students were praised for rallying around the mother of a classmate.
There is a GoFundMe set up for the Hollenbeck family and additional fundraisers are being planned.
Hanna Kumalac, left, and Nisi Beltran Roblero helped with the fundraiser on Thursday.
