Photos by Ginny Kropf: Mary Lonnen of Lyndonville, left, stops during her tour of the garden to take a picture of garden owner Jeanette Riley, seated at left, and her sister Joyce.

ALBION – An annual garden tour to benefit the Cobblestone Society has become a highlight of the summer season for many in Orleans County.

This year’s event took place Thursday afternoon and evening in the opulent gardens of Jeanette Riley and her family on Riley Place, off Moore Street in Albion near the bank of the Erie Canal.

Terry Wilbert of Albion meanders along a path in Jeanette Riley’s garden. His wife Kae, a bassoonist, was preparing for the performance of the quintet E-Yah-Pah-Hah.

Shirley Bright-Neeper of Medina and Joyce Chizick of Lyndonville, both members of the Cobblestone Society, led the annual event. Bright-Neeper praised the volunteers who helped, and the band, which she said was “absolutely wonderful.”

Showers were forecast, but held off for the event, which attracted more than 100 guests, exceeding expectations.

“This is our fifth year for the garden tour and it is a record one,” said Doug Farley, Cobblestone Museum director, who was all smiles as he directed traffic by the Riley’s driveway.

Joyce Potote of Holley chatted with Yuko and Chris Wilkins from Tokyo, who are on furlough in Albion as missionaries with the Free Methodist denomiantion. They marveled at Riley’s gardens, Potote saying she had visited them before with her garden club.

Mary Lonnen of Lyndonville and Sandy Fenton of Medina strolled the winding paths, admiring plants and statuary and stopping to take pictures along the way.

“As a fellow gardener, I just love it here,” Lonnen said. “Jeanette has so many original ideas. We all appreciate what she’s done here.”

“It’s wonderful they are sharing their wealth and imagination with us,” Fenton said.

There was plenty of comfortable seating throughout the garden, with many niches, alcoves and secluded arbors in which to relax. A small barn was converted into a kitchen area where elaborate snacks were supplied for guests, most all made by Chizick. Near the orchestra, Georgia Thomas served up sweet treats and iced tea. Another shaded area provided space for Mark Bower and Chris Sartwell to serve a selection of wine to guests.

As parking near the garden was limited, organizers arranged for a shuttle which transported guests back and forth from the former St. Mary’s Church a short distance away on Brown Street.

Riley, who was seated on a garden bench with her sister Joyce, greeted guests and answered questions, while sometimes posing for a picture. She said she was thrilled to be able to share what she has accomplished there with so many people.

From left, Chris Capurso, Brenda Radzinski and Gail Johnson, all board members of the Cobblestone Society, greet guests as they arrive at Jeanette Riley’s garden on the banks of the Erie Canal in Albion for the annual soiree Thursday afternoon and evening.

(Left) Georgia Thomas of Medina offers a petite pineapple square at the dessert table set up near the area where the quintent E-Yah-Pah-Hah entertained guests. (Right) Joyce Chizick arranges a tray of hors d’oeuvres she prepared for the Cobblestone’s garden tour on Thursday.

Guests stroll at their leisure through the extensive gardens of Jeanette Riley on the bank of the Erie Canal on Moore Street in Albion.

Yuko and Chris Wilkins, left, from Tokyo and Joyce Potote of Holley rest in one of seating areas throughout Jeanette Riley’s garden. The Wilkins are staying in Albion while on furlough as missionaries with the Free Methodist denomination until September.

Sandy Fenton of Medina, left, and Mary Lonnen of Lyndonville pose by a grouping of metal blooms in Jeanette Riley’s garden during the Cobblestone Society’s annual mid-summer celebration.

Guests enjoy elegant finger foods made by Joyce Chizick of Lyndonville.

Mark Bower and Chris Sartwell poured wine under a garden umbrella for guests, including Dick Remley at right.

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – Susan Starkweather Miller and Tim Archer are shown at Mount Albion Cemetery by a sign showing progress towards raising $225,000 to repair the chapel’s roof and make the site safe to be used by the public again.

Albion eighth-graders made the sign showing the fundraising progress. More sections of the window need to be filled in because donations are currently at $140,000.

The chapel was built in 1875 and needs significant repairs to the roof and other improvements. The chapel is the focal point for visitors to the cemetery who enter through the main entrance through the sandstone arch.

The chapel remains structurally sound, but it needs a new Vermont slate roof. The roof has leaked causing other problems.

“It’s worthy of saving,” said Starkweather Miller, the village historian. “I believe in our community and there is a lot of love for Mount Albion.”

If the chapel is restored, she said the building could again be used for memorial services, local history talks and other events.

The roof has leaked in the chapel. The fundraising campaign will address the interior problems with the building, as well as putting on a new roof.

The $225,000 would restore the chapel with the following improvements:

• A new roof with Vermont slate matching the original design
• Asbestos abatement on the roof
• Repointing on the entire building
• Interior replastering of the north wall
• Electrical upgrades (wiring, outlets, internal and external lighting
• Heating unit for seasonal use
• Ceiling tile removal and repair of plaster and vaulted ceiling
• Remove old floor, repair subfloor and put in a new floor
• Refurbish exterior doors and window trim

A committee has been working about a year to identify the needs of the chapel and to start raising funds for the restoration. That group includes Starkweather Miller, Archer, David Snell, Toni Stark and Tony Wynn.

The Orleans County Historical Association, led by President Bill Lattin, also is helping with the fundraising. That group is a 501c3 organization and all donations can be tax deductible. Click here for more information about making a donation.

The fundraising received a major donation recently with $100,000 from George B. Harris. His grandfather, George D. Harris, was a prominent contractor in the community. George B. now lives in Washington state but continues to have a love for the Albion community, Starkweather Miller said.

Sue Starkweather Miller during a cemetery tour last August at Mount Albion discusses the life of George D. Harris, a prominent local builder and contractor. His office was on the canal. He died in 1918 at the age of 50.

The painting is by Peter West, who gave it to Harris in exchange for work. The rod and reel in the painting were owned by Harris. Three of Harris’s granddaughters attended the tour, and his grandson listened by speaker phone.

As a contractor Harris built many new homes in Albion and redesigned others, including the former Swan Library, the Trolley Depot next to Swan Library, Jacob Landauer’s home on West State Street, the Baptist Parsonage, remodeled the Citizen’s National Bank, remodeled the Village Hall, built the Arnold Gregory Memorial Hospital and built a high school at the two bridges in Carlton which has since been demolished.

The chapel restoration also has received a $10,000 donation from the DAR, and significant contributions from the Keeler family and Dale Blissett.

There will be a tour of Mount Albion at 6 p.m. on Aug. 3 with a focus on some of the pioneer settlers of the community as part of a celebration of Orleans County’s Bicentennial.

Photos by Natalie Baron: Several children went all-out in a competition of Gaga Ball today at Bullard Park. Kids hit the ball with their hands, and, if hit with the ball below the knee, had to exit the pit until the next round.

By Natalie Baron, Orleans Hub intern

ALBION – Bullard Park hosted its County Wide Park Fun Day today, with many activities open to all children in the county.

The leaders of the Fun Day were the Genesee-Orleans Ministry of Concern and the Village of Albion Recreation Department. The Ministry of Concern covered the $5 that would have been the entrance fee. Along with this, all children received a free hot dog, juice, and French fries.

John Grillo, the recreation director, said more than 500 kids attended and received wrist bands. The park was bustling despite temperatures near 90 degrees.

Patrick Holman, a magician, performed at the Fun Day. Here, he used letters on cards to ask the audience if they were ready to see some magic. He stacked all the cards, then dropped cards to reveal them to be attached together, spelling out the word “MAGIC.”

Some of the young attendees played tug of war. They used all their might to score a victory.

Maisyn caught a ride on a pony. The pony rides were well-liked by the children.

A little girl smiled as she soaked in the suds pit. The children occupied themselves by making stacks of bubble foam.

Children flocked to Bullard Park’s splash pad to beat the heat. They joyfully played in the water.

Anna and Abigail faced off at checkers. The girls pondered moves, then struck.

Yarieliz survived a round of Jenga. She turned and excitedly gave a thumbs-up.

A child looked down at the pretty water in the duck pool. Children anticipated their turn to cool down.

The bounce houses made a return from last year’s event. They were a hit with the kids.

Other activities included face and rock painting, basketball, disc golf, and the playground. Food and beverages were offered.

Tonight, the band Savage Cabbage will play at the amphitheater, as the Summer Concert Series continues to entertain the community.

Photo by Tom Rivers: Kade Leverenz, 5, of Holley heads down the slide in one of the bounce houses during a Countywide Park Fun Day last year on July 17. The Fun Day returns on Wednesday.

ALBION – Wednesday will be a big day at Bullard Park with the Route 31 site adding bounce houses, pony rides, face and rock painting, and many other activities.

The park is hosting its Countywide Park Fun Day. Children have access to all the activities. The Genesee-Orleans Ministry of Concern is covering what would have been a $5 charge.

The Fun Day will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and includes access to the splash pad, playground, Gaga ball pit, basketball courts, disc golf and other park amenities.

Food and beverages also will be available, and there will be a performance by Patrick the Magician.

ALBION – The Albion Joint Fire District, which officially started on Jan. 1, faces many tasks – some big and some small – as the new entity overseeing fire protection for the towns of Albion and Gaines as well as the Village of Albion.

The five fire commissioners voted Thursday evening to seek bids for a quint ladder truck. That truck would replace a ladder truck from 1994 and also a fire engine from 1991. The quint would have the ability to pump water and carry some water, while also deploying a ladder that would stretch 110 feet.

The commissioners could vote to accept a bid at their next meeting on Aug. 14. The truck is expected to cost about $2.2 million. It will be a major purchase for the district.

Commissioners are weighing other costs that are far less, but still important. During Thursday’s meeting, commissioners discussed having a new sign on the fire hall on Platt Street. It may just be lettering that states Albion Joint Fire District. Commissioners are seeking a defined proposal for the sign.

They also have received two proposals to develop a website for the fire district, with ongoing IT support and maintenance. One proposal was for $1,995 to set up the website with a $95 monthly maintenance. That would also provide at least 40 email addresses for the district. Another informal quote was for $980 to set up the website with $185 for host maintenance for the whole year. Commissioners want more details on the proposals to make sure the services being offered are similar.

The joint district also is considering purchasing Class A formal uniforms for some of the members. President Scott Papponetti said two companies have not responded to repeated requests for proposals for the uniforms while another, MES, has proposed $800 for each uniform and would come to Albion to fit the firefighters with white buttoned shirts, jackets and pants. The Class A’s also include a hat, belt, neck tie, coat and hardware on the collar with a firefighter’s badge number.

These uniforms are worn at parades, funerals and other special events, such as the Sept. 11 memorial service.

MES also could provide the Class B uniforms with polo shirts, T-shirts and other less formal clothing.

The fire district has $9,000 budgeted for the Class B’s. The district also received $36,313 from the Village of Albion from its insurance company. That money for insurance coverage was approved as part of the village budget for a full fiscal year, from June 1 to May 31. That was when the fire department was part of the village budget. But the fire district started in Jan. 1, with the fire department moved out of the village budget.

The insurance payment had already been approved towards the fire department for 2024-25. That unexpended money was turned over to the district. Commissioners are considering using some of it towards Class A uniforms.

The commissioners want a more detailed proposal from MES on what their quote entails and the costs.

The commissioners also discussed the possibility of new sprinklers and an alarm system in the fire hall.

The board also is looking to adopt a policy for non-members being on fire trucks. The commissioners want to allow family members to be in trucks for parades, and to continue having other community members on the trucks, especially when elementary kids are given a ride on a truck for winning fire prevention contests. Al Cheverie, chairman of the  commissioners, said a policy should state that a firefighter or parent of a child would need to be assigned to a kid getting a ride on a fire truck.

Kevin Sheehan, a fire commissioner, said those rides and allowing children of firefighters to ride in the trucks during parades may pay off down the road in firefighter recruitment.

“Having kids involved is how we get the next generation of firefighters,” he said.

The commission on Thursday accepted one new member, Christina Irwin.

Photos by Tom Rivers: Fire trucks for the Albion Joint Fire District head down Main Street in the June 14 Albion Strawberry Festival parade. The fire district is working towards a new quint ladder truck that would replace the ladder truck in front from 1994 and the fire engine behind it from 1991. The new quint ladder truck could pump water and carry water to fire scenes. Albion’s current ladder truck doesn’t have the ability to carry or pump water.

ALBION – The Albion Joint Fire District is seeking proposals for a new ladder truck. It will replace one that is currently 31 years old.

The new truck, however, is expected to take as long as four years to be built and delivered due to a backlog among the fire truck manufacturers. The new fire truck also is expected to cost about $2.2 million.

Al Cheverie, the fire district chairman, said the costs for new apparatus have escalated in recent years. The Village of Medina, for example, agreed to pay $1,698,995 to Pierce Manufacturing in Appleton, Wisc. for a new fire truck with a 100-foot-long ladder. That was June 26, 2023. Medina’s truck is expected this December, about a 2 ½ year wait.

The fire district will put a notice to bidders in The Daily News of Batavia, the district’s legal newspaper. That is expected to be posted next week, with the bids due 12 days after that. If the legal notice can be posted on Tuesday, Cheverie said the bids will be due on July 27. Cheverie said the fire district commissioners should be able to accept a bid at their Aug. 14 meeting.

The bid specifications for the truck will be available to bidders through secretary Rachel Hicks once the legal notice is posted.

The fire district is seeking a quint ladder truck with a 100-foot-long ladder. The quint also has the ability to pump water and carry 300 gallons on the truck. The current ladder truck doesn’t pump or carry water, and has a 103-foot-long ladder.

“This will have everything we need for the initial attack,” Cheverie said about the new quint ladder truck.

Cheverie said the new truck will allow the fire district to take two older trucks out of service – a 1994 ladder truck and a fire engine from 1991.

The new truck will fit in the existing fire hall. Cheverie said the new truck will actually be a little bit smaller because the ladder is in four sections instead of three.

The fire district budget for 2025 established an “Apparatus Repair & Replacement Reserve” and a $250,000 was put in the reserve fund the first year.

The two older trucks have held up well for the Albion Fire Department but Cheverie said they will need extra care to make it four more years.

“We will have to band-aid them as best we can to keep them in service,” he said.

Editor’s note: This article was updated to state the truck will have a 100-foot ladder, not 110 feet as originally stated, and will have capacity to carry 300 gallons of water, not the 500 to 800 as originally stated.

Fire commissioner Kevin Sheehan, left, makes a point during the Albion Joint Fire District meeting today in the Albion fire hall. Listening from left include Chairman Al Cheverie, Commissioner Dave Buczek and Treasurer Victoria Tabor. Other commissioners, not pictured, include Chris Kinter and Craig Lane.

Provided photo: Albion police officer Sean McElhinny and Mary Brzustowicz from Autism Up are shown on Wednesday when Brzustowicz gave a presentation to law enforcement and other human service providers.

ALBION – The Albion Police Department hosted a representative from Autism Up on Wednesday for a discussion about how to best respond to calls for people with autism or who are on the spectrum.

The Albion PD announced it will have “Sensory Bags” in its patrol cars which can assist in helping to calm people down with autism who are feeling stressed or overstimulated.

The Albion Police Department hosted the presentation from Autism Up. Other agencies that attended included the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office (Sheriff’s deputies, dispatchers, animal control officers and chaplains). Albion Special Education teachers, district superintendent Mickey Edwards and representatives from the Child Advocacy Center also attended the session.

“We at the Albion Police Department are so grateful for Mary to come out and give us this knowledge,” the Albion PD stated about the presentation from Autism Up. “We at the Albion Police Department are dedicated to providing the best service, interactions and have an understanding of all of our community members.”

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – Dave Ruch delivered an engaging concert this afternoon playing a variety of instruments in sharing about the Erie Canal’s history.

Ruch, a  musician from Buffalo, played some well known canal tunes – “Low Bridge, Everybody Down” and “Fifteen Miles on the Erie Canal.”

Ruch played familiar instruments such as the banjo and guitar, and then introduced the audience to instruments used by many canal workers and travelers in the mid-1850s – cow bones, spoons, a washboard and jaw harp.

Dave Ruch shows people a jaw harp, which he said was very popular as people tried to pass time on their journeys along the canal.

Ruch played the washboard with two thimbles on his fingers.

This group joined Ruch and acted out a canal song about a low bridge.

Sam Conde learns to hold the cow bones so he can make music with them.

Ruch shows how to hold two spoons so they bang together to make sounds. Ruch sang the folk song, “Old Dan Tucker,” while he played the spoons.

Today was the kick off of Hoag Library’s 2025 Summer Reading Program with a theme “Color Our World.”

Reading logs and Nioga Library System passports are available at the library. With the Nioga Passport Program, participants can collect a stamp at each Nioga Library they visit. Once all stamps are collected, they’ll be entered into a system-wide raffle for prizes.

Other upcoming events include:

• Super Amy Variety Show at 2 p.m. on July 10. Super Amy brings her passion and talents to life in this variety show with magic, comedy, feats of strength and amazing acrobatics
• Fire Truck Visit from 1 to 3 p.m. on July 14. Learn about fire safety with volunteers from Orleans County Emergency Management.
• Water Color Wars will be outdoors beginning at 2 p.m. on July 17. Wear old clothes or a bathing suit and get ready to get wet with different outdoor water games.
• Gardening for Kids beginning at 2 p.m. on July 21. The Master Gardeners will teach a class on gardening for children and their families.
• Brushstrokes Program at 2 p.m. on July 23. Melissa from Brushstrokes will lead a class on how to paint glazed pottery. Registration is required. Limit 15 registrants.
• Rainbow Yoga with Mindful Traditions at 2 p.m. on July 29. Learn the basics of yoga and relaxation with yoga instructor Kaylin McCarthy.
• Butterfly Wing Craft at 2 p.m. on Aug. 4. Make wearable butterfly wings out of cardboard.
• Wildlife Rockstars Live Animal Show at 11:30 a.m. on Aug. 18. Ambassadors from the Wildlife Rockstars will be here to show animals and teach about the different ecosystems and habitats.
• Yohe Wagon Rides & Farm Animals at 2 p.m. on Aug. 20. Celebrate the end of summer reading with horses/wagon rides and other farm animals.

For full program details, visit www.hoaglibrary.org.

Press Release, Hoag Library

ALBION – Hoag Library’s 2025 Summer Reading Program, themed “Color Our World,” officially kicks off today at 2 p.m., with an engaging performance by musician and teaching artist Dave Ruch, who will bring the history of the Erie Canal to life with music, storytelling, and audience interaction.

Reading logs and Nioga Library System passports will be available at the kickoff. With the Nioga Passport Program, participants can collect a stamp at each Nioga Library they visit. Once all stamps are collected, they’ll be entered into a system-wide raffle for exciting prizes.

This summer, Hoag Library will also be out in the community! Visit us at Bullard Park on Fridays in July for Art at the Park with stories and crafts, and look for StoryWalks at the library and throughout Albion.

Other exciting upcoming events include:

• Super Amy Variety Show – Thursday, July 10 at 2 p.m.
• Fire Truck Visit – Monday, July 14 from 1 to 3 p.m.
• Wildlife Rockstars Live Animal Show – Monday, Aug. 18 at 11:30 a.m.
• Yohe Wagon Rides & Farm Animals – Wednesday, Aug. 20 at 2 p.m.
• Rainbow Yoga, Butterfly Wing Craft, Supersized Sorry, and many more activities for all ages

Participants are also encouraged to take part in the Community Art Mural, Color Jars, and the Collaborative Diamond Painting Project running every Friday.

For full program details, visit: www.hoaglibrary.org/srp

As part of the Hoag Music Series, Hoag Library is proud to present two free, all-ages concerts this summer:

• Dr. Petar Kodzas (classical guitar) – Saturday, July 19 at 12 p.m.
• Dr. Andrew Flory (theorbo) – Saturday, Aug. 16 at 12 p.m.

Both concerts are free and open to the public—don’t miss the chance to experience world-class musicians right here at Hoag Library!

ALBION – UConnectCare has announced a ribbon cutting and an open house for the new 25-bed women and children community residence at 3597 Butts Rd., Albion.

The open house and ribbon cutting will be from 4:30 to 7 p.m. on Aug. 13.

This will be the first residential program for women and their children for UConnectCare, formerly known as Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse.

The site will allow women, 18 and older, to receive services to aid in their recovery while in a residential setting.

Five of the 25 units will accommodate women with children younger than kindergarten. Up to two children can stay in those units.

UConnectCare awarded a $4.6 million grant from the state Department of Health for construction of the residence, which will total $5.2 million.

UConnectCare has seen more women in recovery and addiction programs during the opioid epidemic, with the prevalence of addictive painkillers, UConnectCare officials said.

The residence was built on part of a 9-acre wooded lot just outside of the Albion village limits.

UConnectCare will operate the facility, with staffing at all hours, seven days a week.

Photo by Ginny Kropf: CAOG’s board president Barb Shine spoke during Community Action’s in-service day and praised staff for the work they have done in the community.

ALBION – The annual In-service Day for Community Action of Orleans and Genesee was again held this year at Albion Elks Lodge, with a theme of “Beacon of Hope: Illuminating Paths to Possibility.”

The day began with breakfast catered by the Coffee Pot Café and welcome by CAOG’s executive director Renee Hungerford, who announced the agency was incorporated Sept. 13, 1965, making it 60 years old this year. To celebrate, she declared June 20 an agency holiday, following Juneteenth and giving staff a long weekend off.

Board president Barb Shine introduced board members in attendance, welcomed guests and praised the staff for their accomplishments.

Hungerford next read the government impact of legislation proposed by President Trump in his budget, in which both the Community Services Block Grant, the foundational funding of a Community Action agency, and LIHEAP, a source that partially funds their weatherization program, are eliminated.

She also read a passage from Project 2025 which proposed the elimination of Head Start. She elaborated on the importance of raising awareness of these developments so people can voice their concerns before final decisions are made.

Hungerford stated she had responded to the president, but never got a reply.

Photo courtesy of Melinda Daniels: (Left) Ryan Lasal, director of Family Program Innovation/Chief Innovation Officer, and Tina Schleede, director of Finance and Administration/CFO, hand out awards during Community Action’s In-service Day. (Photo by Ginny Kropf – right) – Renee Hungerford, executive director of Community Action of Orleans and Genesee, welcomes staff and guests to the annual In-service Day at Albion Elks Club.

Hungerford also urges everyone to read her letter to the editor on Orleans Hub, in which she stresses the importance of the Community Services Block Grant and how devastating it would be if the funding were lost.

A recap of Community Action showed the agency served nearly 5,000 individuals during the 2023-24 program year, an increase of more than 101% over the year ending in 2021. That equates to 2,628 households served.

 Approximately 2,600 individuals benefitted nutritionally from food panties, food distribution, surplus food and prepared meals at the Holley Center, while 687 households received holiday meal kits.

Community Action provided assistance to 141 individuals to avoid eviction and 78 individuals were aided in avoiding utility shut-off.

School supplies were provided to 206 children, and five individuals received employment support, including job searching assistance, on-the-job training and work appropriate clothing.

 The Main Street store continues to serve the community, with 92 prom dresses provided to students across eight counties; 182 individuals in need received hats, gloves and scarves; and the Wishing Tree in the store inspired 76 community donations of gifts, warm coats, socks and clothing.

The Head Start program continued to provide vital services to 201 enrolled children and 66 children enrolled in Early Head Start.

ACT – Helping Youth ACT Responsibly had 522 youth participate in the evidence-based, comprehensive pregnancy/STD prevention curriculum, and the Credit Recovery program had 22 students who attended, of which 11 demonstrated basic grade level achievement and eight obtained a high school diploma.

Motivational speaker Joe Roberts of Vancouver was keynote speaker for CAOG’s annual In-service day and shared his inspirational story of rising from a homeless addict to CEO of a multi-million company. His life story can be read on his website.

Community Action provides seniors and people with disabilities safe transportation for medical visits and personal needs. During the program year, 159 individuals received 4,052 one-way transportation trips.

Early Head Start – Child Care Partnership had 100 children enrolled and brought up to date on age-appropriate immunizations. The Child Resource Center provided referrals to 64 individuals to licensed child care providers.

The Weatherization program provided services to 123 homes, making them more efficient. Through a partnership with the Department of Social Services, 99 households received air conditioner installation.

In addition to that, Community Action had many other highlights throughout the past year. These included adding a mural on the Main Street store, being selected by the Orleans County Chamber of Commerce to receive their Community Service Award, full reorganization of the agency was completed, a successful Stone Soup program was also completed and three teams expanded to the Arnold Gregory facility.

A number of community needs were identified, such as helping people become self-sufficient, advocating for working parents to have access to safe and affordable childcare, expanding health-related programs, explore avenues to meet increasing demand for food, partner in programs to increase affordable housing and reduce homelessness, expanding the Credit Recovery program to more Orleans County schools to increase graduation rates, help prevent death from overdose and become a distribution site for fentanyl and xylazine test kits, naloxone and educational materials and increase marketing, success stories, community involvement, etc. to increase brand awareness and public impact  of the important role of Community Action.

Looking ahead, Community Action has identified priorities as addressing the 1115 Medicaid Waiver, developing the 2026 Community Needs Assessment and updated Strategic Plan, developing a Mental Health satellite at Holley, updating Mission and Vision statements, creating expanded transportation opportunities and exploring housing opportunities and partnerships.

One exciting new initiative is creating a Fresh Start Center at the Main Street Store, where students can launder clothes, shower, receive personal hygiene items and get connected with other needed social care services. A private grant will fund the shower, which won’t be added until next year.

Photos courtesy of Melinda Daniels: (Left) Veronica Barhite, a board member for Community Action, enjoys an ice cream sundae during the annual In-service Day at Albion Elk’s Club. (Right) CAOG director Renee Hungerford, right, and Cassie Healy, head of the Main Street Store, have an ice cream sundae during lunch break at the annual In-Service Day.

Hungerford stated, “The progress we’ve made in the last five years is incredible.” However, she sees the need for food going up and the number of homeless increasing.

Lunch for the day was catered by Zambistro and an ice cream truck was on site after lunch.

Following lunch and several games, Naloxone training was presented by Kaitlin Pettine, a public health educator with the Genesee Orleans County Health Departments.

Awards were presented, including 11 years-of-service awards for employees from five to 25 years with the agency. Eight employees received Achievement Awards for furthering their education, and nine Employee Recognition awards were given, with the top employee being Margi Davies, chosen by her peers and awarded a certificate for her strong upholding of the agency’s values. She also received an Achievement Award for making the Dean’s List and graduating from Empire State University with an associate’s degree in science, with a study of Early Childhood.

In her closing statement, Hungerford thanked everyone who made the day fun and successful. This included staff, the Elks Club for providing an affordable venue, Kaitlin Pettine for showing them how to save a life with Naloxone, Orleans Mental Health for making the Joe Roberts presentation possible, and the board of directors.

Photos courtesy of Albion Alumni Foundation: Alumni Foundation board member Mollie Radzinski congratulates Emily Richardson as she receives the Jonathan Doherty Memorial Scholarship.

Press Release, Albion Alumni Foundation

ALBION – The Alumni High School Alumni Foundation awarded $174,325 in scholarships to Albion High School Class of 2025 graduates during their Class Night ceremony on June 20. These awards provide financial assistance to seniors as they continue to pursue their educational goals after high school graduation.

The Foundations’ scholarship committee chose recipients for 56 academic, vocational, service, leadership, arts and athletics scholarships. The committee reviewed numerous applications and chose students that they felt best fit each scholarship’s criteria.

Three new annual scholarships were awarded for the first time this year:

Raymond Lissow Jr. Memorial Scholarship – This scholarship was established in 2024 by the Family of Raymond M Lissow. Ray graduated from Albion in 2006 and benefited greatly from Albion’s special education personnel. Ray was very active in his community and thoroughly enjoyed his years at ACS. Sadly, he passed away in 2022 at the age of 34 but left a lasting impression on everyone he met and hopefully he always put a smile on their faces. This $2,000 scholarship, administered by the Albion Alumni Association, is awarded to a graduating senior attending college to pursue a degree in Special Education.

Ray and Fran Lissow congratulate Nicholas Baxter as the first recipient of the Raymond Lissow Jr. Memorial Scholarship.

Paganelli Family Scholarship – This scholarship has been established by the Paganelli family to support the pursuit of higher education, whether academic or vocational. It will be awarded to a graduating senior who demonstrates financial need and actively participates in extracurricular activities, whether related to work or academics. This scholarship is administered by the Albion High School Alumni Foundation.

Coach Robert Ord Scholarship – This scholarship was established in honor of Coach Ord who dedicated many years of service to the Albion School District and the Athletic program. This scholarship is administered by the Albion High School Alumni Foundation, Inc.

Our scholarships are made possible through the generosity of our Albion alumni members and the local community.  We are grateful to them for their willingness to support so many Albion graduates through our scholarship program.

If you are interested in starting a scholarship or want to learn more about the Albion High School Alumni Foundation, please contact Steve Hicks, Albion Alumni Foundation President at steve@albionalumni.org or go to albionalumni.org.

Congratulations to all 2025 scholarship recipients!

• Albion High School Alumni Foundation Scholarship – Willow Gaines, Krystalin Taylor, Taylor LeFrois, Adysyn Stirk
• Paul R. Haines Memorial Scholarship – Leo Bolton
• Elizabeth Balcom Smith Scholarship – Madison LeBaron
• Golden Performance Scholarship – Alexis Hand
• Jim & Susie Fraser Health Careers Scholarship – Alana Irvine
• Minier Family Scholarship – Jayden Lewis
• Albion Alumni Foundation Performing Arts Scholarship – Mallory Kozody
• Coach Richard Diminuco Scholarship for Athletic Excellence – Camryn London
• Harry W. Salchak Science Scholarship – Tye Talbot
• A.B. Dick Eddy Service Above Self Scholarship – Leo Bolton
• Nancy Elaine Lagamba Scholarship – Madison LeBaron

(Left) Jayden Lewis accepts the Minier Family Scholarship from Marissa (Minier) Olles and her daughter Hannah. (Right) Zachary Baron receives the Brennan Michael Carlyle Moody Scholarship from Erin and Jackson Moody.

• Dr. Paul Mahany Family Scholarships – Madalyn Ashbery
• Hoag Engineering Scholarships – Tye Talbot, Zachary Baron, Seth Krenning
• Panek Family Farm Agriculture Scholarship – Oliver Beach
• Horton Scholarship – Donavan Braley
• Wayne A. Burlison Memorial Scholarship – Kelli Dingle, Keira Zambito
• Glassner Family Scholarship – Nathan Garrett, Tracy Garrett
• John Panek Memorial Scholarship – James Harris
• Ronald L. Sodoma Memorial Scholarship – Mallory Ashbery
• Masonic Renovation Lodge #97 Scholarship – Katherine Hollenbeck
• Edward B. Archbald Memorial Scholarship – David Rosario
• Dr. David and Anita Long Scholarship – Oliver Beach
• D’Andrea Family Scholarship – Cassandra Brown
• Brandon Bruski Memorial Scholarship – Kelli Dingle
• Ralph and Pearl Poelma Good Neighbor Community Scholarship – Mallory Ashbery, Rori Higgins
• Jake and Anna Vreeburg Scholarships – Ella Trupo (College), James Harris (Trade School)
• Inge Hume Elementary Education Scholarship – Mallory Kozody
• Robert P. VanDeusen Memorial Scholarship – Donovan Braley
• Moore Family Scholarship Fund – Kenadie Patten

Sawyer Brigham and Donovan Braley receive the Benjamin Dennis Kirby Memorial Scholarship from Ben’s friends. Lucas Martin also received this scholarship.

• Sherman Awards – Keira Zambito (Moses Sherman Award) & Dillon Digulio (Margaret Sherman Award)
• Benjamin Dennis Kirby Memorial Scholarship – Donovan Braley, Sawyer Brigham, Lucas Martin
• Oak Orchard Bowl/Whittier Scholarship – Camryn London, Jayden Lewis
• Country Lane Veterinary Scholarship – Keira Zambito
• Babbitt Family Scholarship – David Rosario
• Matthew K. Gardner Memorial Scholarship – MacKenzie Snook
• Scott H. Ward Memorial Scholarship – Mallory Kozody
• Craig Anderson Scholarship – Kyle Radder
• Brennan Michael Carlyle Moody Scholarship – Ella Trupo, Zachary Baron
• Jared M. Fearby Scholarship – Rori Higgins
• Edward Fancher Memorial Scholarship – Rori Higgins
• Gil and Christine Pritchard Vocational Scholarship – Aaron Flanagan
• Lamont Family Scholarship – Kelli Dingle
• Kelly Sidari Ricker Memorial Scholarship – Willow Gaines
• Gwenyth Hughson Memorial Scholarship – Taylor Lefrois
• Nicholas Kovaleski Memorial Scholarship – Oliver Beach
• Hoag Skilled Trades Scholarship –James Harris, Roselan Steffan
• Betty West Memorial Scholarship – Alexis Hand
• Stewart New Scholarship – Alexis Hand
• Dick Tower Scholarship – James Harris
• Alvin Smith Family Scholarship – Paige Newton
• Sperandio Foundation Family Scholarship – Ella Trupo, MacKenzie Snook
• Lu Johnson Memorial Scholarship – Xavier Hess
• Johnathan Doherty Scholarship – Zachary Abel, Emily Richardson, Zachary Yankevich
• Raymond M. Lissow Scholarship – Nicholas Baxter
• Paganelli Family Scholarship – Kenadie Patten
• Coach Robert Ord Scholarship – Isaiah Riley