By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 15 May 2018 at 7:43 am
Photo by Tom Rivers: Medina High School is pictured on Friday.
Voters in five school districts in Orleans County will go to the polls today to decide the fate of budgets, propositions and candidates for the Board of Education.
In Kendall, residents will also vote on a proposed $14.5 million capital project.
Voters need to be at least 18 and a legal resident of their school district for at least 30 days.
Here is a breakdown on what’s on the ballot at the five school districts:
ALBION – The district is proposing a $35,225,625 budget for 2018-19, a spending plan that reduces taxes by 0.3 percent.
The budget reduces the tax levy by $25,845, from $8,474,939 to $8,449,094. The projected tax rate would decrease from $15.52 to $15.47 per $1,000 of assessed property. The budget represents the 10th time in the past 12 years the district has either held the line in taxes or reduced them.
Other propositions:
• Authorization to spend $490,000 from the Bus Purchase Reserve Fund to buy buses for the 2019-2020 school year. State aid covers about 90 percent of the costs for new buses.
• Authorization to create a Capital Reserve Fund with up to $7,195,000 with the funds going to school repairs and improvements.
“The proposition is permission to save, not permission to spend,” said Shawn Liddle, Albion’s assistant superintendent for business.
• Authorization to collect $714,920 for Hoag Library, which is up 4.0 percent from the $687,211 in 2017-18.
• There are also two seats open on the nine-member Board of Education, with Elissa Nesbitt joining incumbents Margy Brown and Linda Weller on the ballot.
Voting is from noon to 8 p.m. at the elementary school conference room A.
HOLLEY – The district is proposing a $25,210,000 school budget that represents a 2.0 percent tax increase, with the tax levy going from $6,968,766 to $7,108,141.
The budget maintains the current programs in the district, said Sharon Zacher, the assistant superintendent for business. Holley is reducing overall staff by 2.5 full-time equivalent positions, with two of those positions to be abolished through attrition.
Other propositions include:
• Authorization to spend up to $222,914 for two school buses and a sport utility vehicle.
• Approval of $153,713 in funding for Community Free Library.
• There are five candidates running for three positions, including incumbents – Mark Porter, Anne Winkley and Melissa Ierlan. Nancy Manard MacPhee and Anne Smith also are running for three-year terms on the board.
Voting is from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the Holley Middle School/High School Foyer.
KENDALL – In addition to the school budget, Kendall is proposing a $14.5 million capital project. Kendall school leaders say they already have the local share for the work in a capital reserve fund so there wouldn’t be a local tax increase if the project is approved.
The project follows a series of other improvements at the district campus in recent years.
The scope of the capital project includes:
• Proposed improvements to the Elementary School include improving ventilation on the second floor of the quad and auditorium; renovation of the multi-purpose room for technology, agriculture and consumer science programs; replacement of the original gym bleachers and the gym floor, renovation of locker rooms, and a re-design of the cafeteria and serving line.
• Improvements proposed for the Jr./Sr. High School include renovation of the art, technology and music rooms which would address accessibility, storage and ventilation; replacement of gym floors and bleachers; renovation of the girls’ locker room; renovation of music practice rooms; renovation o the lavatory in the arts hall; update of the public access system; ventilation in the office and gym; improving light and sound and providing fly space for set productions in the auditorium; addition of a vestibule at the entrance to the art and music wing.
• Site improvements could include lighting and traffic flow at the Elementary School front loop; improvement of traffic flow at the Jr./Sr. High School bus loop; drainage in the athletic fields, addition of bathrooms and storage by the track and sidewalks from the High School cafe to the tennis courts.
• The bus garage is in need of roof repairs, an update to the fuel system and outside lighting as well as improvements to the water line. The old bus garage behind the Elementary School is in need of replacement windows and doors, Julie Christensen, district superintendent, said at a January community meeting about the project.
If approved by district voters, the construction could begin in 2019 and be completed by 2020.
• The district is proposing a $17,367,477 school budget that reduces spending and doesn’t increase taxes. It also includes $100,000 for a school resource officer. Kendall will keep its security staff and wants to have a deputy from the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office devoted to the school.
Overall spending in the Kendall budget is down from $17,415,783 in 2017-18. The tax levy, what the district collects in taxes, will remain the same at $4,715,842. However, the tax rate will decrease from $17.04 to $17.02 per $1,000 of assessed property due to a boost in the tax base.
• Authorization to spend up to $250,000 from the School Bus Reserve Fund for transportation vehicles.
• Jason ReQua is the lone candidate running for a five-year term on the Board of Education.
Voting is from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the elementary school gym.
LYNDONVILLE – The proposed $14,006,982 budget includes $100,000 for a full-time school resource officer. The district had a school resource officer the last two months of the 2016-17 school year, but didn’t include the position this past school year due to budget concerns.
The district has received a boost in state aid and school leaders want to have the officer working out of the district next school year. Lyndonville would contract with the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office to have a deputy assigned to the district throughout the school year.
The budget represents a 3 percent spending increase. Taxes, however, would increase by 1 percent.
The vote today also includes:
• A proposition to collect $100,888 for Yates Community Free Library.
• Authorization to build the transportation reserve fund up to $700,000 over eight years.
• Authorization to purchase two 64-seat passenger buses to replace ones from 2007, not to exceed $250,000. The money is already in transportation reserve.
• The community will elect four school board members, three for 3-year terms and one for a 2-year term.
There are seven candidates including three incumbents – Ted Lewis (board president), Kelly Cousins and Susan Hrovat. Other candidates include Stephanie Hargrave, Bill Jurinich, Tara Neace and Steven Vann.
(Editor’s Note: An earlier version of this article said that Russ Martino, who was appointed to fill a vacancy on the board, was also running as a candidate. Martino has recently resigned from the board and isn’t seeking election.)
The vote will be from noon to 8 p.m. at Stroyan Auditorium.
MEDINA – The district is proposing a $37,565,842 school budget that doesn’t include a tax increase in 2018-19. The budget increases spending by $945,049 or 2.6 percent from the $36,620,793 budget for 2017-18.
The tax levy, however, will remain the same at $8,641,861. This is the seventh straight year Medina has either reduced taxes or held them in check, and the 10th out of the past 11 years, said Mark Kruzynski, the district superintendent.
Medina is proposing to eliminate 6.5 teaching positions and 2 buildings and grounds staff, due to retirement or resignation, he said. The district will maintain all of its existing programs with the budget proposed for 2018-19, he said.
Other propositions include:
• Approval to allow high school senior to be a student ex-officio non-voting member.
• There are two candidates running for one open seat on the Board of Education. Brian Koch and Ann Webster Bunch, both incumbents, are seeking a three-year term.
The vote is from noon to 8 p.m. in the board room of the district office.
Schumer says firefighters are exposed to a range of harmful toxins when responding to emergency situations
Press Release, U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer
File photo by Tom Rivers – Firefighters spent hours at this massive fire in Albion at Orleans Pallet on Oct. 17, 2013.
U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer on Monday announced the U.S. Senate passed critical legislation that would, for the first time ever, establish a specialized national cancer registry to be managed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Schumer said the registry would improve collection capabilities and activities related to the nationwide monitoring of cancer incidence among all firefighters, both career, and volunteer. Now that U.S. Senate passed this critical legislation, Schumer is urging the House of Representatives to pass the bill immediately.
“We owe it to our brave firefighters who are on the front lines, risking their lives to protect our communities the peace of mind of knowing that if they get sick they will be taken care of,” said Senator Schumer. “This critical legislation does just that by establishing a national firefighter cancer registry, so researchers can better track, treat – and one day – prevent the potential connections between firefighting and cancer. I’m glad the Senate finally passed this legislation and I strongly urge my colleagues in the House of Representatives to pass this life-saving bill immediately.”
According to a five-year study conducted by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, there are twice as many firefighters in the U.S. with malignant mesothelioma, a rare type of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos, when compared to the general population. The same study also found that firefighters also have an increased risk of death from lung cancer and leukemia as compared to the general population.
Schumer explained that firefighters are exposed to a range of harmful toxins when responding to emergency situations, often as a result of the noxious flame retardants and other chemicals that are used in everyday items, from furniture to clothing, and to even children’s toys. Experts and scientists have repeatedly sounded the alarm on the danger of these toxic chemicals because they have been found to cause developmental delays in children from long-term exposure in addition to rare cancers in firefighters when these products burn and the toxins become airborne.
Schumer said research has indicated that there is a strong connection between firefighting and an increased risk for several major cancers, including testicular, stomach, multiple myeloma and brain cancers. However, there has never been a long-term registry put in place that could be used to track the potential connections between firefighting and incidences of cancer.
Schumer, therefore, said a national firefighter cancer registry is needed, so experts and researchers can more effectively monitor nationwide trends and incidences of cancer among firefighters – both career and volunteer. Schumer said such a registry would help medical professionals more effectively identify and treat cancer in firefighters over the long term.
Specifically, this national firefighter cancer registry would do the following:
First, this registry would compile in one place the epidemiological information submitted by healthcare professionals related to cancer incidence among firefighters.
Second, it would make anonymous data available to public health researchers so that they would have access to the comprehensive datasets that will allow them to expand this groundbreaking research.
Third, this registry would improve our understanding of cancer incidence as the registry grows, which could potentially lead to the development of advanced safety protocols and safeguards for the firefighters on the front lines each day.
Finally, this bill would allow for increased collaboration between the CDC and epidemiologists, public health experts, clinicians and firefighters through regular and consistent consultations to improve the effectiveness and accuracy of the registry.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 14 May 2018 at 9:06 pm
KNOWLESVILLE – When the Orleans County 4-H Fair returns in late July, there will be a new stage and location for the popular karaoke, talent show, and other concerts.
The Cornell Cooperative Extension is using a stage grant to put an addition on the Curtis Pavilion which will include a stage, six dressing rooms and a sound booth.
The concrete has been poured a 2-foot-high wooden stage wooden epoxy will be added. The Extension currently has to pay about $2,000 each fair to rent a tent and stage.
Robert Gregoire, Tim Gregoire’s son, screws in metal wall sheeting on the addition.
The state in 2016 set aside $5 million to help county fairs with capital improvements. Orleans received about $96,000. The new stage and addition at the Curtis Pavilion is costing about $83,000. The grant also paid for electrical upgrades for campsites.
Tim Gregoire Construction of Holley is well ahead of schedule on the project. Gregoire has until July 1.
The project includes an electrical upgrade in the pavilion and the installation of stage lighting.
The new addition looks like a pole barn to blend in with most of the other barns at the fairgrounds.
Robert Batt, executive director of the Extension, said the site will also be used for agriculture education programs as an outdoor classroom. He also would like to see other concerts held at the Curtis Pavilion outside of the busy fair week.
Batt said the Extension has applied for another $96,000 state grant for fairgrounds improvements. The Extension wants to replace four or five wooden bleachers with new metal ones. The Extension also has applied to use part of the grant for new animal stalls, lighting upgrades and also a new “show plex” for animal shows.
Ayman Huzair, then 21, performs during the karaoke finals in July 2015. Huzair won the competition singing a medley of songs from Michael Montgomery, Bruno Mars and Cupid. The karaoke competition this July will be held on the new stage at the Curtis Pavilion.
Press Release, Orleans County Departments of Planning & Development and Tourism
File photo by Tom Rivers: Medina held its first Farm-to-Table dinner event on a closed off Main Street on Aug. 4, 2016. There were 137 people at that dinner, a fine dining experience featuring locally grown food and wine.
ALBION – The Orleans County Departments of Planning & Development and Tourism are in the process of developing the “Orleans County Culinary Guide” featuring a restaurant guide and an updated directory of local producers’ markets/retail outlets. Producers include fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, botanicals and craft beverages/wineries.
The purpose of this brochure is to highlight Orleans County’s Farm to Table culture and act as a guide, for both visitors and residents, to local and fresh culinary options as well as food related special events. To be eligible for inclusion in the Producer’s Section, a roadside farm stand and/or farm market must be a part of your operation. The final product will display the location of the restaurant, farm stand/market as well as hours, contact information, and description of items being sold.
If your business is qualified for inclusion, please complete our registration form on our webpage at www.orleanscountytourism.com/enroll. Submit the form appropriate to your business: Producers/Markets or Restaurants/Prepared Foods. The deadline to register to be included in this year’s guide is June 15, 2018.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions; contact information can be found below. Please share with any other producers you think may be eligible and interested in our Farm Producer/Culinary Directory Initiative.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 14 May 2018 at 3:08 pm
ALBION – Three people were sentenced in Orleans County Court today, including two people to state prison.
Darren Marker received the longest sentence, with 3 years in state prison and 3 years of post-release supervision.
Marker, 33, of Medina was sentenced for attempted first-degree robbery. He allegedly was in a vehicle on Main Street in Medina at 12:30 a.m. on Aug. 8 when he pulled out a knife and threatened a victim. Marker allegedly already owed the victim $110 after borrowing money with no intention of paying it back, the District Attorney’s Office said. Marker also allegedly stole cellular phone power banks from Crosby’s.
Marker faced up to 3 ½ years in state prison. Sara Sheldon, interim county court judge, gave him some leniency.
Marker said he has been in and out of since he was 17. He is determined to break the cycle of drug addiction, he told the judge.
“It’s a horrible life,” he said. “Prison is not something I want to make a career out of.”
Marker said he has a loving family as motivation. His goal is to become a drug abuse counselor.
Sheldon wished him well.
“Prisons have really good programs, but they’re not going to seek you out,” she said. “Don’t just go to the programs, but step up and be a leader in the program.”
• An Albion man was sentenced to 2 years in state prison, plus 3 years of post-release supervision for attempted criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree.
Kenneth Thompson, 52, allegedly had crack cocaine packaged for sale on Dec. 11 at 135 North Main St., Room 3, where he was living.
Thompson was previously convicted of a drug charge on Oct. 5, 2015.
His attorney, Dominic Saraceno, said Thompson struggles with schizophrenia in addition to drug addiction. The schizophrenia often leads Thompson to drugs to “self medicate,” Saraceno told the judge.
“He is not as bad as he looks on paper,” Saraceno said about Thompson. “If you get to talk to him, he’s actually a real nice guy.”
The judge said the sentence for state prison would include drug and mental health treatment.
“I agree with your lawyer, I don’t think you’re a bad guy either,” Sheldon said. “But you’ve got to be stronger and find something positive to do with your time.”
• A Rochester woman received 5 years probation after pleading guilty to attempted criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree.
Shanya Beasley, 39, admitted she had cocaine with the intent to sell it in Orleans County on April 18, 2017. She was also ordered to pay $600 in restitution to the Orleans County Major Felony Crime Task Force.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 14 May 2018 at 1:31 pm
KNOWLESVILLE – A new electronic LED sign was turned on for the first time this morning at the Orleans County 4-H Fairgrounds.
The Extension received a $4,535.75 grant to purchase and install the sign. The funding for the Extension was approved by the Genesee Valley Regional Market Authority. The State Department of Agriculture and Markets provided the funding. It is part of nearly $600,000 for research, promotion, and development projects to strengthen New York State’s diverse agricultural industry and spur economic growth across the state, according to Richard Ball, the State agriculture commissioner, who announced the funding in March.
Robert Batt, the Cooperative Extension executive director, said the new sign will allow the Extension to promote several events at the fairgrounds. The previous sign, with letters that had to be set by hand, only listed one event.
Howard Watts, the facility coordinator for the Extension, and Robert Batt, Extension executive director, are pictured with the new sign. Some additional work will be done on the frame.
“Before we could only highlight one thing,” Batt said. “Now we can highlight 4 or 5 things.”
He also wants the sign to include some agriculture facts.
Howard Watts, the facility coordinator for the Extension, had the frame ready last week. He worked on the electric this morning, and the sign went live for the first time at about 11 a.m.
This photo from July 2013 shows Extension Director Robert Batt, who was then the president of the Fair Board, and Kerri Richardson, who was then community educator for the Cornell Cooperative Extension, gearing up for 4-H Fair in Knowlesville. A new digital sign will allow the organization to list more events.
MEDINA – Girl Scouts of Western New York is proud to announce sisters Jessica, 17, and Sarah Grancelli, 19, of Medina as 2018 Gold Award Girl Scouts. They will be recognized on June 2 during the Gold Award Ceremony at the Hyatt Regency in Rochester.
Jessica Grancelli
Jessica’s project, Playing with STEM, consisted of adding puppets, books, games, and storage materials to the new interactive play space at Oak Orchard Elementary School. These materials will enhance the Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM) experience of children who use the interactive playroom twice a week. Jessica also made the current science literature library more accessible for teachers and students by organizing hundreds of books and producing a list with all of the titles and subjects.
STEM was also a focus for Sarah’s project, Space for STEM. Sarah organized and created science activities and games for a science night at Oak Orchard Elementary School. There were more than 350 people in attendance. The students used these games and activities to learn about space science. Sarah also created and published a book relating space and geography that will help students understand their place in the world. The materials she created were saved and are available as part of the science materials available to classroom teachers from Kindergarten to third grade at the school.
Sarah Grancelli
Sarah stated, “I love science and believe in the importance of STEM education. Girl Scouts taught me to be a leader. I learned to help others before myself and to make the world a better place. I developed courage and confidence as I learned to pursue my goals.”
Jessica commented, “Girl Scouts has taught me independence and to give back to the community.”
The Gold Award is the highest award in Girl Scouts. The Gold Award project is the culmination of all the work a girl puts into “going for the Gold.” A Girl Scout’s project should be something that a girl can be passionate about—in thought, deed, and action that encompasses organizational, leadership, and networking skills.
The project should also fulfill a need within a girl’s community (whether local or global) and create change that has the potential to be on-going or sustainable. Approximately 80 hours of community service are involved in the project. Completion of the Gold Award also qualifies the Girl Scout for special scholarship opportunities.
May 15 is also National Peace Officers Memorial Day
David Whittier, an Orleans County deputy sheriff, was 41 when he died on Sept. 8, 1989. Whittier was on routine road patrol when he came upon an unoccupied pickup truck on Gaines Basin Road on Jan. 19, 1989. While Whittier was inspecting the truck, he was hit by a drunk driver and then dragged about 100 feet. He survived the accident and remained in the hospital until April 1989. After being home for a few months, his condition did not improve. He had contracted cancer, which doctors said was trauma induced. Doctors said his immune system was too compromised due to injuries sustained from the accident. About 700 people, including police officers around the state, attended his funeral in Clarendon at the Disciples United Methodist Church.
Press Release, Sheriff Randy Bower
ALBION – National Police Week is set aside this week to honor America’s law enforcement community for their hard work and dedication in protecting and serving their local communities.
The men and women of the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office are dedicated to the mission of providing prompt, exemplary service while protecting the community. The Orleans County Sheriff’s Office is committed to protect the lives, property and rights of all people, maintain order and enforce the law.
Emphasis is placed on improving and maintaining quality of life to ensure our county is a safe place to live, work and visit. The members of this office are dedicated to this mission, to the County they serve, and achieving excellence within their profession.
During National Police Officer Week in 1962, President Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day as a special recognition day for law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others.
Please join me in recognizing Orleans County’s Deputy Sheriffs and Police Officers for their hard work, dedication and service to our community.
Provided photos: The Medina Marching Band participates in the parade during the Gorham Pageant of Bands. Medina scored 96.5 along with recognition for Best Drum Major (Shelby Green) and Best Colorguard. The Naples band scored 88 and Roxboro scored 85. Marcus Whitman also performed in exhibition. Overall Class Champions went to Medina.
Press Release, Medina Marching Band
Marcus Whitman Central School held its 57th Annual Gorham Pageant of Bands on Friday and Saturday. The pageant represents an opportunity for students in the various band programs to come together and perform. This pageant is particularly special to the Medina Marching Band because it was started by Robert Steele, our band director’s father.
The Medina High School jazz ensembles performs in the jazz competition. Medina scored a 97, the most of five schools. In the Junior High (medium size school) Medina scored 87. In High School (small) Bloomfield scored 88. This band is under the direction of Scott Hoffman, a Medina graduate. In the large high school category Webster-Thomas scored a 92 while East Ridge scored a 95. The East Ridge band program is under the direction of Jeff Hoffman, also a Medina graduate. East Ridge also received recognition for Best Soloist (tenor sax), Best Brass & Woodwind sections. The Webster-Thomas jazz ensemble received recognition for Best Rhythm section.
Medina’s High School jazz ensemble had the top score at the competition.
In Concert competition there were three groups performing. Medina’s Middle School, under the direction of Rebecca Botsford, scored 165 while Medina’s High School under the direction of Jim Steele scored 197.5. The Roxboro Middle School in the large school category scored 175.
The Robert Steele Award was started in 1994 and named after Jim Steele’s father who was the band director in Gorham for 37 years. It’s given to band directors, administrators, boosters who promote music education and are a strong role model & supporter of their school’s music program. This year’s recipient was Mollie Steele. Accepting the award in her name was her son, Jimmy.
The pageant concludes this season’s competitions. However, the community can see the band perform in the Memorial Day parade. The music for the fall season will be distributed before the Band Banquet on June 9 and Band Camp is scheduled for August 6-10.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 13 May 2018 at 7:45 pm
Photos by Tom Rivers
CARLTON – A neighbor saw smoke spewing from a camper on Hanlon Road at about 5 p.m. and went inside and was able to get a man out, saving his life, said Justin Niederhofer, assistant fire chief for the Carlton Volunteer Fire Company.
“If he hadn’t pulled him out it would have been a fatality,” Niederhofer said.
The camper was used as an office by the man. Niederhofer said the man was taken by COVA Ambulance to Medina Memorial Hospital for injuries that aren’t believed to be serious.
The neighbor who went inside the camper to get the man out had minor burns.
Firefighters were called to the scene at 13324 Hanlon Rd. at 5:04 p.m. The fire from the camper spread to a neighboring barn, and that barn was destroyed. Bill Wells is the owner of the property.
A second barn also briefly was on fire, but it was quickly extinguished by firefighters.
The fire is under investigation. No names have been released.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 13 May 2018 at 2:58 pm
HOLLEY – Students who have stepped up in extraordinary ways to serve their families, school and community were honored on Thursday during the 36th annual Youth Recognition Banquet by the Orleans County Youth Board.
Doug Egling
Two adults were also honored for their service to children.
Doug Egling received the Helen R. Brinsmaid Professional Award, which is given to a paid professional who works with youth.
Egling is a caseworker for the Orleans County Department of Social Services. He is assigned to Albion middle and high schools. He supervises some children who are classified as PINS (Persons in Need of Supervision), and also does preventive and foster care cases.
Egling is musically talented and has found instruments for children to play, and will take them to concerts. He goes above and beyond to connect with children, said Carrie O’Neill, coordinator of the PINS program or juvenile adjustment services for Orleans County’s probation department.
“Doug is truly a genuine person who has a heart of gold and would truly do anything for anyone in need,” O’Neill said.
Egling has worked for the county the past 10 years, with six years as a caseworker assistant and the past four years as a caseworker. Prior to that he worked 16 years for The Arc of Orleans County.
Egling said he is part of team of caseworkers and other professionals who determined to find solutions for kids who are often in crisis.
“I like being a member of that team,” Egling said. “The caseworkers and CPS workers are my heroes.”
Egling urged the community to be more open to reaching out to young people, especially those whose families have broken down.
“It’s neighbor to neighbor,” he said.
Emily Bibby of Holley was recognized as a behind-the-scenes leader. She is active in the Interact Club and has coordinated several projects for the service organization. Jocelyn Sikorski, director of the Youth Bureau, is at left.
Sal DeLuca of Holley received the Eileen Heye Adult Volunteer Award for his 30 years of volunteer service to Holley youth. DeLuca has been a long-time soccer, baseball and track coach.
Sal DeLuca
He is currently president of the Holley Sports Boosters Club. He spends many hours at the Woodlands field concession stand, working the grill and refilling the cooler with water, Gatorade and soda.
Penny Cole of Holley nominated DeLuca for the award. She said she pays for many meals for students who show up to the stand hungry.
He also mows the grass at the Woodlands Soccer Complex and fixes many things that need maintenance.
DeLuca served on the Holley Board of Education for six years and was influential in the recent capital projects on the campus.
“Sal truly cares about every student in the Holley community and does his best to make sure they have the best education and are the most well-rounded students out there,” Cole said.
DeLuca said he enjoys seeing students happy.
“It’s the smile,” he said. “That’s the bottom line. I just like to do it.”
Jessica Sedore of Holley is a positive presence in the school. She is a role model for her classmates, and pushes others to try their best.
The following young people were recognized for their outstanding service in the community and/or family: Emily Bibby, Jeremy Browe, Cody Crane, Hannah Duhow, Christian Hahn, Michela Hanlon, Carrie Janas, Emma Lonnen, Alexis Penna, Reese Raduns, Jessica Sedore, Riley Seielstad, Salvador Solis and Kaitlin Zwifka.
The students serve in different ways, from volunteering in a Pre-K classroom to serving as an athlete buddy in the Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged. They have all been selfless in serving others.
Cody Crane of Medina accepts a “Youth Recognition Award.” He planned, organized and was a presenter at a public forum on Jan. 30 about the stigma of opioid addiction.
Dr. Daniel Doctor, Medina Central School’s director of community outreach, served as keynote speaker. He urged the youth to continue serving others. He said they need to use their talents to better the world.
“The young people sitting here tonight have done something with their talents,” Doctor said. “Share it and don’t bury it. Because if it’s under something, the world can’t see your talents.”
Dr. Dan Doctor, director of community outreach for Medina Central School, was keynote speaker at the banquet.
By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 13 May 2018 at 9:30 am
Photos by Cheryl Wertman – Roy-Hart’s Charlie Brigham, left, and Medina’s Brett Riemer and their Ram and Mustang teammates will meet in the Niagara-Orleans League season finale on Monday at Gasport.
Though the title has already been decided three games remain early this week to determine the final Niagara-Orleans League diamond standings.
Medina (7-4) will visit champion Roy-Hart (10-1) and Albion (7-4) will host Wilson (5-5) on Monday. Wilson will then face rival Newfane (2-9) on Thursday.
Roy-Hart locked up its third straight N-O title on Friday with an 8-3 win over Albion which gave the Rams a two game lead over their nearest challengers with just one to go. The Rams downed the Mustangs 8-1 in their earlier meeting.
Currently at 10-1 in Genesee Region League competition, the Lyndonville girls softball team will host Notre Dame on Monday and Kendall on Wednesday looking to close out a division title campaign.
On the courts, Akron will be looking to complete a perfect 12-0 N-O tennis championship season on Tuesday as the Tigers host Medina (6-3). The Tigers locked up what is believed to be their first N-O tennis title last week with a win at Medina. The Mustangs will also visit rival Albion (7-4) in a makeup match on Monday.
The annual Niagara-Orleans All-League track meet will be held at Roy-Hart on Wednesday and Thursday and the G-R All-League meet at Pembroke on Saturday.
Weekly Schedule Monday Baseball: Holley at Attica, Lyndonville at Oakfield-Alabama/Elba, Kendall at Barker, 4:30 p.m.; Medina at Roy-Hart, 4:45 p.m.; Wilson at Albion, 5 p.m. Softball: Holley at Alexander, Elba at Kendall, Notre Dame at Lyndonville, 4:30 p.m. Tennis: Roy-Hart at Wilson, 4 p.m.; Medina at Albion, 4:30 p.m. Lacrosse: Gananda at Medina, 6 p.m.
Tuesday Baseball: Northstar at Lyndonville, Holley at Byron-Bergen, 4:30 p.m.; Wilson at Newfane, 4:45 p.m. Softball: Notre Dame at Kendall, Holley at Pembroke, Albion at Batavia, 4:30 p.m.; Oakfield-Alabama at Roy-Hart, 4:45 p.m.; Depew at Medina, 5 p.m. Tennis: Byron-Bergen at Holley, Kendall at Ela, 4 p.m.; Medina at Akron, 4:30 p.m. Lacrosse: Medina at West Seneca West, 5 [p.m. Unified Basketball: Victor at Holley, Gates-Chili at Kendall/Hilton, 4:30 p.m.
Wednesday Baseball: Northstar at Holley, Notre Dame at Kendall, 4:30 p.m. Softball: Kendall at Lyndonville, East at Holley, 4:30 p.m. Tennis: N-O Doubles Tournament at Medina Track: N-O All-League meet at Roy-Hart, 4:15 p.m.
Thursday Softball: Lyndonville at Alexander, Kendall at Wheatland-Chili, Holley at Kearney, 4:30 p.m. Tennis: Kendall at Notre Dame, 4 p.m.; N-O Doubles Tournament at Medina Track: N-O All-League meet at Roy-Hart, 4:15 p.m. Lacrosse: Medina at Lew-Port, 7 p.m. Unified Basketball: Kendall/Hilton at Holley, 4:30 p.m.; Akron at Medina, 5 p.m.
Friday Softball: Oakfield-Alabama at Kendall, 4:30 p.m.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 13 May 2018 at 8:29 am
Steven Papponetti, 2011 graduate, has been Albion ‘firefighter of the year’ 3 times
Steven Papponetti
ALBION – The honors graduates at Albion will hear from a recent Albion grad who has stayed active in the local community while working as a state trooper.
Steven Papponetti, Class of 2011, will serve as guest speaker on May 21 for the Academic Honors Convocation. Albion recognizes seniors with cumulative grade point averages at 90 percent or higher.
While a student at Albion, Papponetti participated in the Workplace Internship Program, interning at the Medina Fire Department and the Albion Police Department. He was also involved in the Albion Fire Department’s Explorer program and in 2009 was named Explorer of the Year.
He attended Hilbert College and participated in the Leadership Program his freshman through senior years. He graduated with honors and earned his Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science/Crime Scene Investigation. He attended the Law Enforcement Training Academy in 2015 and the New York State Police Academy in 2016.
Papponetti became a New York State Police Trooper on April 5, 2016. His duties include the enforcement of vehicle and traffic safety as well as maintaining safety for residents of New York State. He participated in Operation G.I.V.E., a Gun Involved Violence Elimination Initiative, in the City of Rochester. The program focuses exclusively on reducing and preventing shootings and firearm-related homicides.
Papponetti believes in service to his community. He continues to be a volunteer firefighter and is currently a 1st Lieutenant in the Albion Fire Department. He received Firefighter of the Year in 2011-2012, 2014-2015 and 2015-2016. His father, Harry, is Albion’s fire chief.
Richard Paul Daniels is the valedictorian of the Class of 2018, and Tyler John Kast is the salutatorian.
Other honor students who will be recognized at the Honors Convocation include:
Hailey Lynne Bader, Elisabeth Jane Baker, Victor Francis Benjovsky, Emily Mae Caldwell, Garrett Derisley, Natalie Rose DiCureia, Nathan Leigh Fearby, Josiah Eliazer Finzer, Emma Katherine Fox, Allison Signor Graham, Sara Joanne Hillman, Emma Lynne Lonnen, Gricelda Maldonado, Alana Marie Petronio, Caleb Andrew Pettit, Justin Edward Robinson, Riley Marie Kate Seielstad, Nathanael Bradford Smith, Samantha Rose Vanacore, Noah Colin Wadhams and Kaitlin Krystyna Zwifka.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 12 May 2018 at 6:08 pm
Spaghetti dinner, basket raffle helps Nick Holler and his family
Photos by Tom Rivers
ALBION – Nick Holler, 26, pulls the winning ticket for the door prize during a benefit for him and his family today at the First Presbyterian Church in Albion.
Holler, 26, has battled cancer twice in the past three years. First he was diagnosed with testicular cancer two weeks before his wedding in August 2015. After surgery and chemotherapy, Holler didn’t have a recurrence until a mass was detected near his pelvis in November. That mass, a cancerous lymph node, was removed in February.
Nick Holler and his father-in-law Bob Welker of Le Roy sell tckets for the dinners and basket raffles. Holler is getting scans every three months and meeting with doctors at Indiana University, which specializes in testicular cancer.
Holler lives in Barre with his wife, Amber, and their two children, daughter Macayla, 6; and son Kaiden, 17 months.
Holler and Amber met when they both worked in food service at Batavia Downs. Amber now works for a bank and Holler is a line cook at Applebees in Batavia.
The fundraiser today will help with out-of-pocket medical costs and to help the family if Holler has to miss work due to treatment and medical appointments.
Jeff Holler, Nick’s dad, serves up a spaghetti dinner. The benefit lasts until 7 p.m. today.
In addition to the dinners, there are 80 baskets available for raffle. Nick said he appreciated the turnout from the community.
“I’m impressed with all of the donations and volunteers, and everyone who has stepped up to help us,” he said.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 12 May 2018 at 4:16 pm
Photos by Tom Rivers
ALBION – Ethan Merrill, a Boy Scout in Troop 164 in Albion, places an American flag on the grave of a veteran this morning at Mount Albion Cemetery.
Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts in the Albion area every year place flags on veterans’ graves at Mount Albion and St. Joseph’s Cemetery, both on Route 31. The Scouts take care of the veterans at the two cemeteries before Memorial Day.
Roger Ettinger, left, and Kevin Christy open boxes of American Flags for the Scouts. Christy said about 2,000 flags would go to the two cemeteries this morning. Christy and Ettinger will set about 1,000 more at veterans’ graves at about 10 other smaller cemeteries in central Orleans County. Memorial Day is May 28.
Garrison Foote, 7, of Pack 164 in Albion looks for veterans’ grave markers to place flags.
This marker is for a World War II veteran.
Kevin Bowman and his Tiger Cub grandson, Colton Durow, walk the cemetery, looking to set flags at veterans’ graves.
Boy and Girl Scouts gather for a photo at the chapel at Mount Albion Cemetery before they went to place flags for veterans.
