GLOW With Your Hands puts focus on careers in trades, agriculture, construction and advanced manufacturing

File photos by Tom Rivers: Abby Hunt, left, and Naeve Nothnagle of Caledonia-Mumford race to push a wheelbarrow with a cinder block through a course during GLOW With Your Hands on Sept. 24, 2024 at the Genesee County fairgrounds. The activity was set up by John Guilford Sr., in back in orange, who is a trainer with the Rochester Laborers Training & Apprentice Fund Local 435.

Press Release, GLOW With Your Hands

BATAVIA – For more than 1,200 students across the GLOW region, one hands-on experience could spark an interest, reveal a hidden talent or open the door to a future they had never imagined.

On Tuesday, September 29, students from 32 school districts will gather at the Genesee County Fairgrounds for the seventh annual GLOW With Your Hands career exploration event. Throughout the day, students will connect with more than 70 employers, industry partners, post-secondary institutions and workforce organizations representing opportunities throughout Genesee, Livingston, Orleans and Wyoming counties.

More than a traditional career fair, GLOW With Your Hands invites students to roll up their sleeves and experience the world of work for themselves. They will operate equipment, use industry tools, complete real-world activities and talk directly with the professionals who live and work in their communities.

The event highlights career opportunities in advanced manufacturing, agriculture, skilled trades, construction, transportation, food processing, engineering, public service and other high-demand industries. It also helps students understand the education, training and experiences that can turn their interests into meaningful careers.

“GLOW With Your Hands allows students to experience careers instead of simply hearing about them,” said Angela Grouse, director of Education to Employment for the Livingston County Area Chamber of Commerce and GLOW With Your Hands co-chair. “Sometimes, all it takes is one experience for a young person to recognize a talent or imagine a future they had never considered. We want every student to leave knowing there are people, opportunities and pathways right here in our region ready to help them succeed.”

Students were able to operate an excavator at one of the stations on Sept. 24, 2024.

GLOW With Your Hands began in 2019 with a shared belief among regional education, business, workforce and economic development leaders: students deserve the opportunity to explore careers before they are asked to make important decisions about their futures.

Since its launch, the initiative has connected more than 6,000 students with local employers and career opportunities. Regional partners have also documented an increase in enrollment in related Career and Technical Education programs.

“The continued growth of this event reflects how deeply our region believes in its young people,” said Karyn Winters, director of the Genesee County Business/Education Alliance and GLOW With Your Hands co-chair. “Employers, educators, volunteers and community partners give their time because they want students to see what is possible. They are not only showcasing careers; they are encouraging students, answering their questions and helping them picture a future where they can thrive.”

At the heart of GLOW With Your Hands is the belief that there is no single pathway to success. A student’s future may include college, Career and Technical Education, an apprenticeship, industry credentials, military service or entering the workforce. Each pathway has value, and every student deserves the chance to find the one that is right for them.

The event also gives local employers the opportunity to invest in the next generation. By sharing their knowledge and passion with students, participating organizations help build awareness of rewarding careers available close to home while strengthening the future workforce of the entire GLOW region.

GLOW With Your Hands is made possible through the collaboration of Business Education Alliances, workforce development organizations, economic development agencies, BOCES, local school districts, employers, trade unions, post-secondary institutions, community organizations and hundreds of volunteers. Their collective commitment continues to show students that their communities believe in them and want them to succeed.

About GLOW With Your Hands

GLOW With Your Hands is a regional workforce development initiative serving Genesee, Livingston, Orleans and Wyoming counties. Through immersive, hands-on career exploration experiences, the initiative connects students with local employers, educators, workforce organizations and post-secondary institutions. Since 2019, GLOW With Your Hands has helped more than 6,000 students explore high-demand careers, recognize their potential and discover opportunities available throughout the region.

For additional information, visit www.glowwithyourhands.com.

Press Release, Pullman Memorial Universalist Church

ALBION – Pullman Memorial Universalist Church proudly announces the upcoming ordination of Susan Dodge-Peters Daiss, MDiv, to the ministry.

The historic service will take place on Sunday, October 4, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the church, located at 10 East Park Street in Albion.

Congregational ordination of clergy is a time-honored tradition in the Unitarian Universalist faith community, and after more than 30 years of faithful service and pastoral care provided to the congregation at Pullman, and to the local Unitarian Universalist community, Pullman Memorial is honored to be hosting this cherished celebration in recognition of Susan’s service.

The ordination ceremony represents a sacred landmark in a minister’s journey and a celebratory milestone for the local spiritual community. A formal procession of clergy will be included as part of the service, highlighting regional interfaith solidarity and tradition. Members of the visiting clergy are invited to participate, with robes noted as optional for the procession.

The entire local community, neighboring congregations, and well-wishers are warmly invited to attend this momentous occasion. Following the conclusion of the formal ceremony, attendees are welcome to stay for refreshments and a community reception to congratulate the newly ordained minister.

Those planning to attend are requested to send their RSVP to Jessica George at jessicaamg329@gmail.com by the deadline of Sunday, September 20.

About Pullman Memorial Universalist Church:

Pullman Memorial Universalist Church is a welcoming spiritual community based in Albion, NY. Committed to fostering spiritual growth, justice, and inclusivity, the congregation provides a space for diverse theological exploration and community engagement. More information can be found at: pullmanuu.org.

Ginny Kropf at 7 or 8 years of age is standing in the road with the Roberts Homestead on the left, with her home down the road on the right and the East Shelby Methodist Church (now East Shelby Community Bible Church) up the hill on the left.

SHELBY – It was with great interest I read about the cemetery tours being offered by the Orleans County Historical Association this past summer.

The tour for Aug. 2 featured Maple Ridge Cemetery, which just happens to be on the property where I grew up. I lived with my uncle and aunt, Murray and Helen Baker, and the cemetery was a favorite place to play for my friend Barbara Boyle (now Schreiber) who lived across the road.

The cemetery was unkept, and weeds were knee-high. There were woodchuck holes which we had to be careful not to step in. We looked at the names on the gravestones, but none of them made any difference to us, other than we did note there was a Revolutionary War soldier buried there. We tried to climb the taller gravestones, and never did any damage. A favorite thing was eating the black caps which grew wild there.

So it was with great joy when nearly two years ago I was able to cover an event in the cemetery honoring a Revolutionary War soldier buried there. How or who discovered the grave I don’t remember. It may have been when his great-great-great-great-grandson James Walker from Pontiac, Michigan discovered the burial location after years of searching for information on his ancestor.

Walker contacted the Sons of the American Legion in Rochester and they secured a marker which was placed on the grave of Benjamin Darling in a ceremony which included members of the Sons from Buffalo and Rochester, a reading by Walker and a firing squad.

Photos by Ginny Kropf: (Left) An American and Revolutionary War flag fly in the breeze as a member of the Rochester Chapter of Sons of the American Revolution plays Taps during a ceremony on Oct. 27, 2024 at the grave of Revolutionary War soldier Benjamin Darling in Maple Ridge Cemetery. (Right) A firing squad from the Rochester Chapter of Sons of the American Revolution fire a musket salute over the grave of Revolutionary War soldier Benjamin Darling in Maple Ridge Cemetery.

During the ceremony it occurred to me that Benjamin had to have lived in the town of Shelby and I asked Walker if he knew where. He said after spending years trying to locate his Revolutionary War relative, he knew nothing else of him, other than the company he served with and where he fought.

I realized that Benjamin belonged to the same company and served in the same battle as my great-great-great grandfather Daniel Roberts. Then I became obsessed to learn where Benjamin had lived. I contacted Catherine Cooper, Orleans County historian. The only thing she could find is that he lived in the sixth house on the east side of East Shelby Road and he had a son who was a master builder and was credited with building many fine structures in the town.

That really piqued my interest, because the Roberts homestead (which was the first house south of East Shelby Community Bible Church and since burned down by vandals) was indeed a very fine structure. It was large and square with an upper balcony and center staircase leading to a sitting room at the top of the stairs.

As a young child growing up in the next house northeast of the mansion, we used to visit our great-aunts who lived there almost every day. A huge woodshed was attached at the back of the house, and an indoor outhouse was attached to that. I can remember clearly going in there in the winter and the wind would be blowing right up through the holes. A Montgomery Ward catalog hooked over a nail was our toilet paper.

They had “running water” in the form of a pump in a sink in the dining room, adjacent to the kitchen. A formal living room on the northeast corner was large and had a Victrola/Gramophone) there. The room was never used as I remember.

Now I am obsessed to learn if Benjamin’s son might have been the builder of that house.

Ginny Kropf, Larry Boyle and Barbara Boyle (Schreiber) in the driveway where I grew up on Maple Ridge Road. The peach orchard is behind us and the Maple Ridge Cemetery is behind the peach orchard.

My oldest son Randy has taken an interest in genealogy, and some months after the cemetery ceremony, I got an e-mail from him with a map from the 1800s showing the four corners in Millville, with location of homes and owners. It shows a Darling lived the last house on the south side of 31A , which begins just past the “Y” in the road where County House Road and 31A begin. Another Darling (which we know was Benjamin) lived six houses south on East Shelby Road, which I assume to be where Meyers lived when I was young and where Mr. Gardner lives now.

But I know of no way to document who built the Roberts Homestead. What a coincidence it would be if it were Benjamin Darling’s son!

I am happy, however, to have been able to provide James Walker with a little more information than he previously knew about his Revolutionary War ancestor.

It should also be noted that a marker designating the name of the cemetery was placed on Maple Ridge Road a few years ago and the town of Shelby has taken over its care. Old bushes and trees have been removed and the grass is kept mowed.

Barbara and I have been planning to go there and walk around.

Provided photos

CLARENDON – The Clarendon Historical Society has a new sign on the group’s property on Route 31A at 16426 Fourth Section Rd.

Tyler Moore, wearing yellow shirt, led the effort for the new sign, which was installed on Saturday.

Materials for the sign were donated by Stockham Lumber in Holley and Ken and Katie Spohr of Troop 94. The Clarendon Lions Club also donated funds towards the sign.

The sign was cut and routed by Ken Shaw of Troop 94 and Jeremy Neal of Albion.

Volunteers included the Troop 94 leaders of Ken and Katie Spohr, and Randy Moore; Nicole Jurzysta, Mark Laitenberger, Jesse Smith, Bert Mathes and Merri Mathes as well as the scouts in Troop 94.

Photos courtesy of Albion Central School

ALBION – The school district gathered on Friday for a group photo to celebrate 150 years of the school district. This year there are 1,649 students and 278 staff members.

The district did a similar photo 25 years ago, gathering on the football field, for a group photo. That time it was for the 125^th anniversary.

The district will be celebrating the milestone anniversary throughout the year, especially during homecoming on Oct. 5 through Oct. 10, the 150^th day of the school year and with other activities.

One of the teachers, Tim Archer, is working with students on a 150^th anniversary booklet about the district that was established in 1876.

Photos courtesy of Mike Thaine

ROCHESTER – The choir at the First Presbyterian Church of Albion sang the national anthem just before the Rochester Red Wings game on labor day, Sept. 7.

The Red Wings would go on to defeat the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, 3-1.

The choir received an enthusiastic response from the standing-room only crowd, with one long-time usher remarking that it was one of the top anthem renditions of the season, one of the church members said.

Pictured from left in row one: Anna Symons, Martha Batt, Annette Mannella, Pastor & Choir Director Sue Thaine, Amanda Krenning-Muoio and Jeanine Baron.  Second row: Donna Eisermann, Maggie Martin, Kevin Gardner, Tod Symons, Erin Moody, Alec Sherman and Shirley Mazourek-Murray. (Missing from photo: Sharon Anderson and Marietta Schuth)

The choir’s performance was projected on the ESL Ballpark’s Jumbotron scoreboard.

Iroquois Job Corps in Medina employs over 100, with space for 225 students

Photos by Tom Rivers: U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer was in Medina on Aug. 5, 2025 outside Brunner to show his support for the Iroquois Job Corps Center, one of 99 that was targeted for closure by the U.S. Department of Labor.

Press Release, U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer

A new federal settlement agreement between Job Corps and the Trump administration includes protections against the closing of Job Corps campuses and stopping of operations, among other provisions.

Schumer explained that the Job Corps centers and programming help train tens of thousands of students across America each year, including thousands in New York, providing them with the skills they need to enter in-demand fields.

“When the Trump administration announced that Job Corps was going to be eliminated, I got to work to protect it—traveling across Upstate New York to stand shoulder to shoulder with students, staff, and small businesses that have seen firsthand the benefits of this program,” Schumer said ina  news release.

This sign on Route 63 in Shelby notes the Iroquois Job Corps, a center with space for up to 225 students served by 104 full-time equivalent employees.

“Today, I’m proud to announce that the administration has officially backed off its ill-conceived plan to close one of America’s largest workforce training programs,” he said. “Saving Job Corps is a win-win-win because students get the skills they need to get a good job, small businesses get the trained workforce they need to grow, and Upstate communities get a boost to their economies. Job Corps is about more than training. It’s about giving people across Upstate New York a pathway to a good-paying career, strengthening local communities, and building the healthcare, construction, and manufacturing workforce that will keep our state strong. And I’ll always fight to protect it.”

After hearing about Trump’s proposed cuts, Schumer traveled to Job Corps centers across Upstate New York, from the Iroquois Job Corps center in Orleans County to the Cassadaga Job Corps center in Chautauqua County and the Oneonta Job Corps Center in Otsego County, to stand with students, staff, and small business owners and demand we protect this vital pipeline for skilled workers to fill jobs. Earlier this year, the Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education funding bill rejected Trump’s call to eliminate Job Corps and instead provides $1.76 billion in federal funding to keep them open. Schumer also secured language that blocks the closure of Job Corps centers unless such closures meet specific requirements.

In May 2025, Trump paused operations at Job Corps centers nationwide. Afterward, a federal judge temporarily blocked Trump from shutting down Job Corps centers, and another federal judge said operations must resume until the previous case is resolved. Schumer explained that the Trump administration not only attempted to shut down Job Corps centers, but in his budget request, Trump said he wanted to totally zero out funding for the program, effectively killing the program without needing the approval of federal courts.

In addition to fighting back on Trump’s proposed elimination of funds for Job Corps in the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bill, Schumer led efforts in the Senate to oppose the Trump administration’s destructive and potentially illegal actions like pausing existing funds for the Job Corps centers.

Schumer called on U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer to protect Job Corps and demanded answers on these destructive efforts. Due to Schumer’s leadership, the Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education funding bill rejected Trump’s call to eliminate Job Corps and instead provides $1.76 billion in federal funding—consistent with the previous year—to keep them open and includes language to protect against efforts to illegally shut down specific centers.

Schumer said Job Corps centers have helped millions of young people ages 16 to 24 finish high school, learn technical skills, and get jobs in in-demand fields such as healthcare and construction.

Low-income and at-risk young people have received stable housing and healthcare while developing the skills they need to get good-paying jobs after graduation. Across Upstate NY, centers in Albany, Sullivan, Orleans, Otsego and Chautauqua counties serve thousands of young New Yorkers and employ over 500 staff.

To learn more about Job Corps, visit www.jobcorps.gov, or to apply, visit https://enroll.jobcorps.gov.

Long-time residents celebrated for ‘countless contributions’ to community

Photos by Tom Rivers: Margaret Roggow waves after being recognized for reaching 90 years. She was among nine residents and former residents honored during a celebration on Friday in Holley for people in the community who have turned 90 since the last celebration two years ago.

HOLLEY – The Holley community wants to send a message to its oldest residents: you are appreciated and valued for your long-term commitment to the area.

The Village of Holley and Towns of Murray and Clarendon on Friday honored nine residents who have turned 90 since the last celebration for nonagenarians (people in their 90s).

On Friday, the honorees included Margaret Roggow of Holley, Betty Knight of Murray, Dorothy Freestone of Murray, Joseph Salvatore of Murray, Orrin VanOrden of Clarendon, Roy Kenyon of Murray, Betty Rex of Murray, Mary Brocksopp of Murray and Marion Myers of Clarendon.

Holley Mayor Mark Bower greets Dorothy Freestone of Murray and her son Scott Morgan. Freestone is 93 years old. She attended a celebration at the American Legion on Friday.

Clarendon Town Supervisor Marc Major, left, and Murray Town Supervisor Gerald Rightmyer commended the long-term residents.

The two towns plus the Village of Holley issued a joint proclamation for residents who have reached 90 since September 2024:

“We have all been so enriched by the countless contributions these individuals and their families have made to our communities,” the proclamation states.

“We do also encourage all of our residents to recognize, appreciate, respect and honor each of these women and men in as many ways as they possibly can.”

Roy Kenyon waves after being acknowledged during Friday’s celebration.

There are about 2 million Americans are 90 or older among the U.S. population of 340 million, which is about .06 percent of the overall population. The 90-and-older are a fast-growing demographic, the U.S. Census Bureau reports.

“You are part of a select group who possess the history of the places you have lived,” Clarendon Town Supervisor Marc Major stated. “It means that through your own life’s ups and downs, you have gained so much insight. It also means you great insight to share with the rest of us.”

Holley mayor Mark Bower shared that he was eating at Sam’s Diner with his wife Karen in 2022, when he first became mayor. In a booth near theirs, was Bower’s aunt Betty Passarell and Jane Petty. Jane was already over age 90.

Bower and his wife reflected on people in Holley they knew who were over 90.

“It struck us both that many times, communities forget about us as we get older,” Bower said. “I wanted to change that by doing something that put the focus solely on our 90 and older residents.”

There have been celebrations for the nonagenarians in 2022, 2024 and now in 2026.

Previous honorees include Dorothy Barringer, Rose Gifaldi, Jane Perra, Isabelle Wager, Virginia DeFilipps, Lorraine Pera, Pauline Stazie, Clark Knapp, William Billotti, Duane Prince, Theodore Foote, Susan Hurd Machamer, Vivian Ward, Rose Caley, Connie Gaines, Phyllis Keyes, Beverly McKinney, Ethel Robinson, Norma Thom, Roy Bubb, Arlene Mawn, Edna Ruggeri, Rhoda Broekhuizen, Louise Lusk, Fred Roeck, Norman Wheeler, Helen Heath, Lydia Fallato, Louis Sevor, Theodore Jenney, Mary Ann Spychalski, Amy Zazzara, Margaret Dobrowsky, Jack Kemp, Maxwell Maclean, Gene Pickett, Lawrence Snider and Henry Lehning.

Father Mark Noonan, priest for the ONE Catholic parishes in Orleans and eastern Niagara, shared a reflection about the Sept. 11 terrorists attacks, where “ordinary Americans” going on an airplane or to work were victims of the terrorists attacks. The group observed a moment of silence for the nearly 3,000 who were killed.

Father Noonan then reflected how the residents 90 and older have been living “ordinary” lives for decades, quietly contributing to their families and community. He marveled at their longevity and their example for others.

“These ordinary Americans have been doing the little things to make our town, homes and community better,” Father Noonan said.

After the outdoor service, the group was treated to refreshments inside the American Legion.

Fourth annual event ‘supports the fighters, admires the survivors and honors the taken’

Photo by Ginny Kropf: There were more than 200 baskets donated for the Fuller 155 basket raffle/walk  to benefit suicide prevention last September at the Shelby Fire Hall.

SHELBY CENTER – The fourth annual fundraiser for suicide awareness this Sunday will again include more than 155 baskets up for raffle. The event for the first time includes a 5K run/walk.

Provided photos: Ike and Jason Watts show some of the baskets donated for the Fuller 155 Suicide Awareness Basket Raffle on Sunday at Shelby Firemen’s Recreation Hall.

The Fuller 155 Suicide Awareness Basket Raffle and 5K Fun Run/Walk is in honor of the late Erin Fuller, a former deputy with the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office. Fuller was 45 when he died by suicide on Sept. 12, 2015.

The message for the fundraising event is simple, but powerful, said Ike Watts, Fuller’s cousin and coordinator of the event: “We support the fighters, admire the survivors, honor the taken and never give up hope.”

Watts continued to say, “We honor the memory of many family members, friends and community members who have died by suicide and offer support to those affected by it. Our goal is to raise enough funds to offer support and training to first responders and others in our community who may not know where to turn or what to do next after tragedy strikes. We want people to know that it’s okay to not be okay, that you matter and you are not alone.”

The event on Sunday will be at the Shelby Volunteer Fire Company. The 5K will begin at 9 a.m. with a $10 registration fee. Registration begins at 8 a.m. and pre-registration is open now. Information on how to pre-register can be found on the Fuller 155 Facebook page or you can Venmo $10 along with your full name and email address to @Fuller155. The 5K is organized by Watt’s sister, Debbie Fuller of Florida.

Thursday at 6:30 p.m., organizers will meet at Shelby Recreation Hall to stuff 100 gift bags which will be given to the first 100 entrants for the 5K. Anyone needing more information can call Fuller at (716) 481-1474.

The basket raffle will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. So far 155 baskets have been donated, including a Dolly Parton basket. Donations are still being accepted by contacting Watts at (585) 590-0291.

Watts said support for their annual event has been overwhelming. They have received donations from businesses, individuals – the entire community, including Lockport, Albion and even from Fuller’s home town in Florida.

“This is not just about Erin,” Watts said. “It’s about any family touched by suicide.”

(Left) Organizer Ike Watts said support for their annual Fuller 155 Suicide Awareness Raffle has been overwhelming. Here is an insulated bag with $500 gift certificate from Wegmans. (Right) An elaborate fall centerpiece is one of the baskets which will be raffled off Sunday at a fundraiser to benefit suicide awareness.

Watts said she is grateful to Shelby Fire Company for allowing them to host this event there every year.

“I wouldn’t be able to do it otherwise,” she said.

Refreshments will be provided by the Shelby Volunteer Fire Company, located at 4677 S. Gravel Rd., Medina.

Informational booths will be set up by the Orleans County Mental Health, Orleans County Suicide Prevention Coalition, Orleans County Sheriff’s Department, and Alzheimer’s Awareness. There will also be a special Suicide Awareness photo op station, generously donated by Sheryl Watts of Air Raising Events.

Press Release, NYS Department of Education

ALBANY – The New York State Education Department today announced that the Board of Regents has authorized the Department to move forward with the next phase of NY Inspires, advancing plans to establish a single New York State high school diploma, sunset separate diploma assessment requirements, and refocus Regents examinations on measuring student achievement of State learning standards.

The action marks a significant step forward in New York’s multi-year transformation of graduation measures, developed following extensive statewide stakeholder engagement and the recommendations of the Blue Ribbon Commission on Graduation Measures.

Under the implementation plan, beginning with students graduating in 2028, New York will transition to one State high school diploma, and students will no longer be required to pass a prescribed set of Regents examinations to graduate.

Regents examinations will continue as rigorous statewide measures of student achievement. The Department will advance proposed regulatory amendments to the Board of Regents by February 2027 to implement the changes in the 2027-2028 school year.

Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young, Jr. said, ”Every student in New York deserves access to rich, high‑quality learning experiences and meaningful opportunities to demonstrate what they know and can do. Advancing this work moves us closer to a more equitable system, one that upholds high expectations for all while ensuring that a student’s zip code, background, or circumstance never determines their opportunities for success.”

NY Inspires was announced in November 2024 and includes four major transformations:

• Adoption of the New York State Portrait of a Graduate;
• Redefining credits and learning experiences;
• Sunsetting separate diploma assessment requirements; and
• Moving to one New York State high school diploma.

The Board of Regents adopted the New York State Portrait of a Graduate in July 2025. With the Board’s authorization to advance the remaining transformations, the Department will now continue the policy, regulatory, guidance, and implementation work necessary to begin in the 2027-28 school year.

Regents Exams Will Continue, With a More Focused Purpose

As NY Inspires moves forward, Regents examinations will not be eliminated. Instead, their role will become more focused.

Regents exams were designed to measure student achievement of specific State learning standards. Under the new framework, they will continue to serve as rigorous measures of academic achievement but will no longer be a separate diploma requirement, beginning with students graduating in 2028.

Consistent with New York’s Educational Assessment Strategy, districts and schools will develop local assessment strategies that draw on multiple sources of evidence, including classroom assessments, student work, performance-based learning experiences, educator observations, and State assessments.

The Department has released initial guidance, a template, and a webinar to support districts in beginning this work and will continue to provide comprehensive resources as this transformation continues.

One New York State Diploma

NY Inspires will transition New York from the current local, Regents, and Regents with Advanced Designation diplomas to one New York State high school diploma. Students will continue to have opportunities to distinguish their accomplishments through State and locally developed seals and endorsements. The current Advanced Designation will transition to a seal or endorsement, preserving opportunities to recognize additional academic achievement.

The Department will continue partnering with educators, students, families, school leaders, higher education, employers, and other stakeholders to seek feedback as it develops the regulations, guidance, and supports necessary to implement these changes.

For more information on this transformation, please visit the New York Inspires website.

Money from Golisano paid for building, renovations at 438 West Ave.

Photos by Tom Rivers: Officials and supporters for Arc GLOW this morning cut the ribbon for the agency’s new office for Community Services and Self-Direction at 438 West Ave. Jill Pegelow, vice president of community services and self direction for Arc GLOW, holds the scissors for the ribbon-cutting. The Arc has moved some services over from its Caroline Street offices while keeping finance and compliance at Caroline Street.

ALBION – Arc GLOW celebrated new offices for its community services and self-direction programs today. Those services used to be based out of 122 Caroline St. in Albion.

But since last month they have been relocated to 438 West Ave., a site recently used for Serenity Spa & Holistic Center, and the Serenity Vitality Café. The previous owner, Doris Heydel closed the business after she moved back to Florida.

Arc officials said it was perfect timing when the building became available. The agency was cramped on Caroline Street. It wanted more room for its community services and self-direction programs, as well as a larger recreation area with a kitchen for individuals with disabilities. The Arc is keeping finance and compliance at Caroline Street.

The agency was able to purchase 438 West Ave. for $298,500 and make some renovations, tapping into a $5 million gift in 2024 from Thomas Golisano, the Paychex founder. On Sept. 17, 2024, he announced he was giving $360 million to 82 non-profit organizations in the Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse regions.

Arc GLOW also has used some of his gift to acquire a building in Le Roy and turn it into a home for five people with disabilities. Arc GLOW dedicated the Golisano IRA home in Le Roy on May 15.

Martin Miskall, Arc CEO, said the Golisano funds have allowed the agency to expand services. He praised the Arc team for their commitment to expanding the agency’s presence and services in Orleans County.

“This new space allows us to strengthen local partnerships, increase accessibility for the individuals and families we support, and further our mission of helping people live fulfilling lives within their own communities,” Miskall said.

County Legislator Don Allport presents a commendation on behalf of the County Legislature for the new offices in Albion. Allport, a former board member and board president for the Arc of Orleans, said he appreciates the agency keeping a strong presence in Orleans County.

The Arc of Orleans County was founded in 1970. It merged with the Genesee County chapter in 2016. In 2021, Orleans and Genesee merged with the Livingston-Wyoming chapter to form Arc GLOW.

The agency now serves 2,000 people with disabilities in the four counties and employs 1,200 people.

Jill Pegelow, VP of community services and self direction for Arc GLOW, said she has been privileged to work for the Arc for 36 years. The new offices provide a welcoming environment for individuals and their families to access support, receive guidance, and collaborate with dedicated professionals who are helping people reach their fullest potential, Pegelow said.

“Every day our Community Services and Self-Direction teams help individuals pursue their goals, build independence, and create lives that reflect their unique interests, strengths and dreams,” she said. “Whether someone is looking for community connections, support navigating resources, or the flexibility to direct their own services, ur staff is here to help them succeed.”

This photo is looking out from the former kitchen space at the Serenity Vitality Café. The Arc said they will use the kitchen to teach people cooking skills, while the bigger lounge space will give people more space to relax and socialize.

Martin Miskall urged people to become members of the agency, even at $1.

“The more advocates, the better,” he said. “There is strength in numbers.”

Ian Mackay wants to show what’s possible for wheelchair users with accessible outdoor infrastructure; Trip goes through Orleans County on Sept. 27-28

Provided photo: Ian Mackay will use mouth-controlled power wheelchair to travel the Erie Canal towpath. He is scheduled to pass through Orleans County on Sept. 27-28.

Press Release, Ian’s Ride

ALBANY TO BUFFALO – Ian Mackay, who is paralyzed from the neck down, will take on his next Big Ride, traveling 360 miles along New York’s historic Erie Canalway Trail in his power wheelchair Sept. 20-28.

The ride from Albany to Buffalo will highlight what’s possible for wheelchair users when accessible infrastructure makes outdoor recreation more inclusive. Mackay, founder and executive director of Ian’s Ride, a Port Angeles, Washington-based nonprofit, will travel through communities along the historic canal, drawing attention to the importance of accessible trails and the opportunities they create for people with mobility disabilities.

Following the ride will be the premiere of Good Moment, a feature-length documentary chronicling Mackay’s world-record ride in a mouth-controlled power wheelchair. The film explores Mackay’s determination, his relationship with the outdoors and the role of community and adaptive technology in making adventures like this possible.

“This is an opportunity to show what’s possible when people have access to the outdoors,” Mackay said. “The Erie Canalway Trail is an incredible piece of American history, and I’m excited to experience it with my friends, meet people along the way and continue pushing for trails that everyone can enjoy.”

The Erie Canalway Trail adventure builds on a series of long-distance rides that began in 2016, when Mackay crossed Washington state in his power wheelchair. Those experiences inspired the creation of Ian’s Ride, a nonprofit dedicated to making the outdoors more accessible for people living with paralysis and mobility disabilities.

Highlighting the importance of accessible infrastructure

The Erie Canalway Trail offers Mackay an opportunity to demonstrate how accessible public spaces can expand opportunities for people with disabilities to explore the outdoors, connect with communities and experience the history and beauty of their surroundings.

Kim Ridley, New York state chief disability officer, said the journey underscores the importance of inclusive outdoor environments.

“New York state is committed to building an inclusive outdoor environment where every individual, regardless of mobility, can experience the beauty and history of our state,” Ridley said. “Ian’s 370-mile journey along the historic Erie Canalway Trail highlights the critical importance of accessible public trails, recreational infrastructure, and community connection.”

Ridley said Mackay’s ride demonstrates how universal design and outdoor accessibility can create transformative experiences for residents and visitors of all abilities.

“We are proud to welcome Ian’s Ride to the Empire State and look forward to continuing our work toward a fully accessible New York,” she said.

New York State Canal Corp. Director Ben Walsh said the corporation shares Mackay’s commitment to expanding accessible outdoor recreation.

“We are proud to welcome Ian to the Erie Canalway Trail,” Walsh said. “Like Ian, we are on a mission to increase accessibility and promote accessible outdoor recreation, so we are thrilled to support him on his journey.”

Walsh encouraged people to join Mackay on the trail, adding that he looks forward to riding alongside him.

Rails to Trails Conservancy also is supporting the journey. Brandi Horton, the organization’s vice president of communications, said Ian’s Ride demonstrates how trails connect people to opportunities and bring communities together.

“When Ian and his team set out to tackle a trail ride, they prove the power of trails to build community, inviting partners like us to be part of the journey and introducing the importance of accessible outdoor recreation all along the way,” Horton said.

“The impact that Ian’s Ride delivers is invaluable, making clear that having safe ways to be active outside is not nice to have — it’s essential,” she said.

United Spinal Association, which advocates for people with mobility-related disabilities, also will support Mackay’s efforts to expand access to trails and parks.

“United Spinal Association is proud to support Ian’s Ride in its critical effort to open up the great outdoors to people of all abilities,” said Matt Castelluccio, the organization’s CEO. “Like Ian’s Ride, United Spinal Association is committed to helping people with mobility-related disabilities live their lives to the fullest.”

Castelluccio said the organization will continue working alongside Mackay to expand access to America’s trails and parks.

Join Ian on the trail

The Erie Canalway Trail ride is an opportunity for people to experience the trail alongside Mackay and learn more about the role accessible infrastructure plays in making outdoor recreation possible.

Community members and media are encouraged to join the ride for a portion of the journey, meet the group along the route and follow updates from the trail.

For more information about the ride, its itinerary and opportunities to participate, visit iansride.com/ride-the-erie.

About Ian’s Ride

Ian’s Ride is a Washington State-based nonprofit founded by Ian Mackay in 2016. The organization works to make the outdoors more accessible for people living with paralysis and mobility disabilities through inclusive rides, community partnerships and advocacy for accessible outdoor recreation.

The schedule includes:

• Day One (Explore NYC): Saturday, Sept. 19 – Battery Park, NYC → Elmsford for 28 miles
• Day Two (Start the Erie): Sunday, Sept. 20 – Albany/Waterford → Amsterdam for 47 miles
• Day Three: Monday, Sept. 21 – Amsterdam → Little Falls for 39 miles
• Day Four: Tuesday, Sept. 22 – Little Falls → Rome for 40 miles
• Day Five: Wednesday, Sept. 23 – Rome → Syracuse for 45 miles
• Day Six: Thursday, Sept. 24 – Syracuse → Weedsport for 26 miles
• Day Seven: Friday, Sept. 25 – Weedsport → Newark for 33 miles
• Day Eight: Saturday, Sept. 26 – Newark → Rochester for 34 miles
• Day Nine: Sunday, Sept. 27 – Rochester → Albion for 34 miles
• Day Ten: Monday, Sept. 28 – Albion → Buffalo for 46 miles

Average price in Orleans County now at $4.38 a gallon

Photo by Tom Rivers: The average price for regular unleaded is at $4.39 today at the Crosby’s in Albion, corner of routes 98 and 31. With the rewards card at 5 cents off, the price drops to $4.34.

The average price for regular unleaded gas jumped 16 cents nationally in the past week to $4.31 a gallon, while in New York State, the average is at $4.39, which is up 8 cents since last Monday, AAA reported.

A year ago the average prices were at $3.17 nationally and $3.25 in New York State.

In Orleans County, the price increased from $4.34 to $4.83.

“Volatility in the Strait of Hormuz has pushed crude oil back into the $100 to $110 per barrel range for the first time since July, sending pump prices to levels comparable to June,” AAA said in a  statement this morning for its weekly gas price report. “This September, the national average is rising during a period when gas prices typically decline due to lower seasonal demand.”

Diesel prices are at a record high. The national average is $6.23 per gallon, up 33 cents from last week. New York’s average diesel price is $6.17 per gallon, up 25 cents from last week and nearly double the $3.10 average recorded one year ago.

Here are the average prices around Western New York:

• Orleans, $4.383
• Genesee, $4.316
• Monroe, $4.302
• Niagara, $4.314
• Erie, $4.324
• Wyoming, $4.342
• Livingston, $4.319
• Chautauqua, $4.377
• Cattaraugus, $4.326
• Allegany, $4.343