Teacher has raised nearly $50K for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Buffalo
Press Release, State Sen. Rob Ortt’s Office
Photo from Rob Ortt’s Office: New York State Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt honors Tara Pfohl as a 2026 Woman of Distinction.
ALBANY – Last night, the New York State Senate inducted Tara Pfohl into its 2026 “Woman of Distinction” class. She is the nominee for the honor by State Senator Rob Ortt.
Pfohl is an educator at Starpoint Central School District, a fighter of breast cancer, and was recognized by the American Cancer Society as the 2025 Strider of the Year for her fundraising and advocacy efforts with Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Buffalo.
Each year, one outstanding woman from each Senate District is recognized for their contributions to their communities, and this year, Tara was Senator Ortt’s nominee from the 62nd Senate District.
“It is an honor and a privilege to nominate and induct such a dedicated, inspirational, and selfless woman to this esteemed program,” Ortt said. “Despite battling Stage 4 breast cancer, Tara refuses to surrender, and is instead out educating not only her students, but women throughout the community on the importance of how screenings and early detection can save lives. Tara’s dedication and advocacy sets her apart, and I’m proud to highlight her remarkable achievements through this program.”
Described by friends as generous, loyal, fierce, brave, courageous, and a force to be reckoned with, Pfohl has been battling breast cancer since 2013, but she hasn’t let it slow her down.
Since 2021, Tara has raised more than $48,000 for the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Buffalo, earning the distinction of top individual fundraiser for three consecutive years. She has used her platform to promote, educate, inspire, and remind others that research, early detection and community support is proven to save lives.
In a release from the American Cancer Society highlighting Tara’s contributions, they said:
“Even while undergoing weekly chemotherapy, Tara continues to advocate for others, share ACS resources, and ensure no one facing breast cancer feels alone. Tara Pfohl embodies what Making Strides is all about—turning her story into action and inspiring hundreds of others to join the fight to end breast cancer as we know it, for everyone.”
Tara’s battle with cancer has been a long one, and although she did go into remission following surgery and treatment early on, it did return as stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. Despite the diagnosis, she is still a highly dedicated first grade teacher at the Fricano Primary School in the Starpoint Central School District, and her colleagues say that even if she has to be out for a day to receive chemotherapy or other treatments, she’s back the next day giving 110% to her students.
Throughout her battle with breast cancer, Tara’s family and friends are the support network she has relied on. Her sister Christa has been a huge partner – consoling her and taking her to many appointments and treatments.
Pfohl grew up in Pendleton, graduating from Starpoint High School and going on to attend college at the University at Buffalo then Niagara University. In her free time, Tara enjoys traveling with friends, listening to music (where her favorite quote “No dress rehearsal. This is our life” by The Tragically Hip comes from), watching the Buffalo Bills, and getting lost in a good book. She lives in Lockport with her dog, Willa.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 6 May 2026 at 5:24 pm
3 candidates on ballot for Board of Education in May 19 election
HOLLEY – The school district is proposing a $32,687,000 budget that increases spending by 6.2 percent and would raise taxes by 2.5 percent.
The budget is up by $1,913,000 from the current $30,774,000. The budget maintains all existing programs.
The district will collect $201,768 more in property taxes – from $8,070,702 to $8,272,470. That is under Holley’s allowable tax cap of 4.112 percent, school officials said the district’s budget newsletter. Holley is under the tax cap by $130,100.
In a message to the community, Board of Education President Trina Lorentz and Superintendent Karri D. Schiavone said the district is presenting “a fair and balanced budget.”
“Our dedication to enriching the educational experience in Holley guides every step of this year’s planning,” the wrote in their budget message. “With a renewed emphasis on innovation, growth, and excellence, we’re working to build on our strong foundation and open doors to new possibilities that support students, educators, and our community.”
They said the budget is aligned with the district’s 2024–2029 Strategic Plan, which reflects a shared commitment to achievement, empowerment, inclusion, responsibility and Engagement.
They said the budget prioritizes “high-quality instruction, safe and supportive learning environments, and responsible stewardship of resources to ensure long-term sustainability for our district.”
The tax levy is up to account for increases in contractual and inflationary costs, and “allows us to deliver high quality instructional and extracurricular programs that are expected in our community while remaining fiscally responsible and aligned with our long-term district goals.”
Voters will go to the polls from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on May 19 at the Holley Middle/High School.
In addition to the budget, there are four propositions:
Proposition 2 authorizes replacement school buses – one large and one small with a wheelchair lift ($374,000)
Proposition 3 allows district to collect $217,703 for the Community Free Library
Proposition 4 authorizes the purchase of a vacant lot adjacent to Woodlands soccer field ($12,500)
Proposition 5 authorizes the establishment of a Capital Improvements Reserve Fund that will not exceed $10 million
There are also three candidates seeking three seats on the Board of Education. The two candidates with the most votes get three-year terms while the one with the third most votes gets a one-year term. The three-year terms begin July 1, while the shorter term starts May 20 because it’s filling a vacancy.
The candidates on the ballot include:
Cecelia Pacheco Stevens – A CCA at Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, Pacheco Stevens has four children in the district. She has been an active volunteer at Holley events involving her children.
“I’m running to ensure every student feels supported, heard, and valued,” she said in the district budget newsletter. “I want to be a voice for all students including those who need extra help, those who thrive in the arts, and those who grow through sports. Every child deserves the opportunity to succeed, and every family deserves to feel connected to their school community.”
Eric DiLella – A retired resident, he volunteers with his therapy dog, visiting hospitals, nursing homes and Call centers for Goodwill.
“I am looking for more ways to support the community,” he said. “When we were raising our kids in the Holley School, it was difficult to juggle a job, kid’s activities, a house and the occasional coaching or scouting assist. Now that I am retired, I can do what I couldn’t do 20 years ago.”
Janet Klossner – She is self-employed at a daycare and also with a hobby farm. Klossner is currently on the Board of Education. She also teaches local fiber arts classes, and is a 4-H leader and barn superintendent who heads up the annual fiber auction at the County Fair.
“I am committed to the youth to ensure they receive a strong education and are prepared for future success, while also keeping taxes manageable for our community,” she said.
KENDALL – On Tuesday, May 5th, the Kendall Fire District was dispatched at 7:54 p.m. for multiple reports of heavy black smoke in the area of Lakeshore Road. While responding from the fire station, Kendall 1 immediately observed large plumes of black smoke visible from a distance and advised Orleans County Dispatch of the conditions.
Upon arrival at 8:01 p.m., crews discovered a large debris fire approximately 2,000 feet off the roadway involving trash and tires being burned. The volume of smoke created visibility concerns for nearby homes and motorists traveling along the Lake Ontario State Parkway, Assistant Chief James Fox said.
One of the biggest challenges crews faced was accessibility. Due to the remote location of the fire, traditional fire apparatus could not safely reach the scene. Mutual aid assistance was requested from neighboring departments with specialized off-road capabilities.
The Brockport Fire District responded with an off-road brush fire unit, Clarendon Fire Company responded with their Argo utility vehicle capable of transporting manpower and equipment, and Shelby Fire Department provided additional off-road brush fire support. Additional manpower and tanker support were provided by the Murray Joint Fire District, Carlton Fire Company, Clarendon Fire Company, Shelby Fire Department, and Brockport Fire District.
Because the incident occurred in a non-hydrant area, a tanker shuttle operation was established to maintain a constant water supply. Kendall 34 served as the base pumper supplying the off-road vehicles operating at the fire scene. Approximately 8,000 gallons of water were used during suppression operations.
The Hamlin Morton Walker Fire District provided district coverage for Kendall while crews remained committed to the incident. Firefighters operated for several hours extinguishing hotspots and ensuring the fire did not spread into surrounding vegetation and eliminating the environmental hazards. All units returned to service at approximately 12:04 a.m.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) responded to the scene and is conducting an investigation into the incident.
On behalf of the Kendall Fire Department, The Chiefs’ Office would like to thank all our neighboring departments and assisting agencies for their rapid response, teamwork and continued support. Incidents like this highlight the importance of mutual aid partnerships and specialized equipment when operating in challenging conditions.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 6 May 2026 at 11:26 am
Photos by Tom Rivers
ALBION – A transformer won’t be leaving Albion today after the trip was cancelled.
The 430,000-pound load was scheduled to go from Albion to Byron.
There was a late notification to National Grid about the trip. The journey has been put off until National Grid is available.
A new move date hasn’t been released. State police will provide an escort. The height of this load requires lifting most overhead wires and traffic control devices.
The transformer was delivered by train to Albion on Tuesday. It is currently on a trailer by Hamilton Street.
Most of the journey is planned for Route 98 from Albion to Elba, before the transformer heads down Lockport Road and reaches Byron on Byron Road.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 6 May 2026 at 10:42 am
Brown, whose roots at farm date back to 1804, recognized by American Fruit Grower magazine
Photos from Orchard Dale Fruit Company – Bobby Brown III of Waterport has been named “Apple Grower of the year” by the American Fruit Grower magazine. Brown and his family have been mainstays in Carlton for more than two centuries.
A local apple grower has been chosen by the American Fruit Grower magazine as the country’s “Apple Grower of the Year.”
Robert “Bobby” Brown III is co-owner of Orchard Dale Fruit Company. He is the eighth generation grower on the family farm, which dates back to 1804. He has embraced new technologies with precision agriculture on the farm and has been a key leader in the Lake Ontario Fruit packing facility on Route 104 in Gaines.
American Fruit Grower announced the honor for Brown today. He is the sixth apple farmer from New York State to receive the honir. Only Washington State has more honorees with 14. Brown also is the fourth grower from Orleans County to receive this distinction, following George Lamont in 1997, Darrel Oakes in 2004 and Roderick Farrow in 2017.
Bobby and Beth Brown are shown with their daughters Emaline and Addison.
The June/July print issues of American Fruit Grower and Western Fruit Grower will feature Brown on its cover. The publications will formally present the award to Brown on July 17 at the Orleans County Apple Social.
Brown, 42, grew up on the grounds of Orchard Dale and worked closely with his late father Bob Brown and his uncle Eric Brown. The younger Brown graduated from Cornell in 2006 and returned to the 400-acre apple business. Bobby’s wife Beth joined the operation in 2013.
American Fruit Grower quotes Jim Bair, President and CEO of the U.S. Apple Association, touting Brown’s long family commitment to the apple industry.
“Bobby is not one to rest on family laurels,” Bair told the magazine. “His support for research, IFTA, and food safety prove his commitment to the industry and his fellow growers. Bobby was one of the first growers I met when I came to USApple. He impressed me then — and still does today.”
Brown has been a leader among the growers, serving with USApple, New York Apple Association, Farm Credit East, Lake Ontario Fruit (current president), Natural Resources Conservation Service, Horticultural Society, and the New York State Apple Research Development Program (current chairman).
Brown received nominations for the award from all sectors of the Western New York apple-growing community.
“He realizes that we all need each other for the western New York apple industry to thrive and survive these uncertain times,” said Michael Keller, Sustainable Agriculture Specialist with Valent U.S.A. “Bobby is always one the first people to step up when issues arise, and he often takes point on many of these challenges. I think he believes that we all need to work together for the apple industry to run properly, and he’s willing to do whatever is needed to ensure the future of New York-grown apples.”
American Fruit Grower shares testimonials from other growers, includign Rod Farrow of Fish Creek Orchards in Waterport: “His development of new high-density super-spindle orchards is second to none in the U.S., and their farm is often a highlight of local, national, and international tours.”
Farrow said Brown has adapted the farm to new technologies, including precision spraying with vision data collection. Orchard Dale was one of the first farms to implement precision crop load management technologies, such as ATV-mounted cameras and drones.
Jason Woodworth of Lamont Fruit Farm in Waterport praises Brown for leading Lake Ontario Fruit during an expansion and addition of new employees.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 6 May 2026 at 10:07 am
Photos by Tom Rivers
ALBION – A transformer is loaded and ready to go on a slow ride from Albion to Byron. The transformer was brought in by railroad to Albion on Tuesday. Today it is scheduled to travel by truck and trailer to Byron.
However, the journey is currently delayed. National Grid was notified late and the company needs to be present when its powerlines are touched.
The 430,000-pound load will disrupt traffic on Route 98. The transformer’s journey starts at Hamilton Street in Albion and then heads south to Allen Road, then east to Route 98. From there its south on 98 through Albion, Barre and to Elba.
Once at Lockport Road, the load will continue on North Byron Road to south on Searls Road to east on Tower Hill Road. The trip ends south on Byron Road in the town of Byron.
State police are providing an escort. The height of this load will necessitate the lifting of most overhead wires and traffic control devices. The load will move into oncoming traffic to avoid overhead obstructions.
The weight of the load will keep speeds to around 5 to 10 miles per hour with many stoppages, State Police said.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 6 May 2026 at 8:31 am
ALBION – The Orleans County Legislature is backing an effort to create a state-wide registry of people convicted of animal cruelty.
A bill for “Buster’s Law” in the State Senate has been introduced by Sen. James Tedisco, a Republican for the the 44th District.
Tedisco’s Senate Bill 1563 would amend the Agriculture and Markets Law to establish a statewide animal cruelty registry maintained by the Division of Criminal Justice Services.
Buster’s Law was named after Buster, a cat, was intentionally burned to death in Schenectady in 1997. The perpetrator who poured kerosene on the cat was later imprisoned for other crimes, including attempted rape, sexual abuse and unlawful imprisonment of a 12-year-old girl.
Buster’s Bill in 1999 made unjustifiable, intentional and violent acts of cruelty to companion animals a Class E felony crime. Tedisco and legislators have said animal cruelty offenses have long been recognized as indicators of broader patterns of violent behavior.
The proposed revision to Buster’s Law creates the state-wide registrythat would be made available in print and electronic form to law enforcement entities, district attorneys, humane societies, societies for the prevention of cruelty to animals, animal control officers, dog or cat protective associations, breeders, animal rescues, and pet stores conducting business in New York.
The bill would prohibit individuals required to register from owning companion animals or working in facilities where companion animals are present, including shelters, pounds, pet stores and zoos.
Orleans County legislators noted that counties are responsible for supporting animal control services, public safety functions, district attorney offices, and coordination with local humane societies and SPCA organizations. Counties would benefit from improved access to accurate, centralized information regarding individuals convicted of animal cruelty offenses, legisators said last week when they voted to support the registry.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 6 May 2026 at 8:06 am
The organists in the concert include, from left: Tom Wenhold, Patricia Worrad and Aaron Grabowski.
Three talented local organists will be featured in the Cobblestone Museum’s Progressive Organ Concert on May 31.
Organists are Tom Wenhold from the Lyndonville Presbyterian Church, Patricia Worrad from St. John’s Episcopal Church in Medina and Aaron Grabowski from Holy Trinity (St. Mary’s) Parish in Medina.
The first concert at 2 p.m. will be at the Lyndonville Presbyterian Church, where organist Tom Wenhold will play the church’s Felgemaker pipe organ, built in 1913. The organ was purchased from the A.B. Felgemaker Organ Company, a major American organ builder originally founded in Buffalo in 1865. This grand instrument features more than 1,100 pipes.
In addition to more than 30 years of organ duties at the Lyndonville Presbyterian Church, Wenhold is a Cobblestone Society member and has opened up his cobblestone residence on multiple occasions for the Cobblestone Tour of Homes.
The next stop on the tour will be at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Medina, where guests will be welcomed with a wine and cheese reception. At the church, famous for its inclusion in Ripley’s Believe it or Not as the “Church in the Center of the Road,” organist Patricia Worrad will treat guests to the dulcet tones of the 19th century Hook and Hastings pipe organ from Boston, MA.
The organ was rebuilt in the early 1960s by Schlicker Organ Company in Buffalo. Its tonal scheme is of the early neo-Baroque style with 18 ranks and two manuals.
“The musical selections for this portion of our concert have been specifically chosen to enhance the mild nature of this style with the warmth of the late 19th-century sound,” said Doug Farley, director of the Cobblestone Museum.
The third and last concert will follow at Holy Trinity Parish (St. Mary’s Church), where local music legend Aaron Grabowski will entertain with a well-curated concert designed to accentuate the organ’s French baroque temperament of pure tuning.
The organ was first installed in 1913 and has undergone many changes through the decades. As various parts have worn out, replacements have been made with contemporary equivalents. Of interest is the fact Grabowski is not only an acclaimed organist, but builds organs for Parsons Pipe Organ Builders in Canandaigua.
The concert will be followed with an optional dinner at Tavern on the Ridge at about 5:15 p.m., where owner and chef Chad Pike has selected a choice of three entrees for concert guests – cottage pie, French ham melt sandwich with arugula salad or Asian chopped salad with ginger chicken. Relish tray and dessert will also be served, and coffee or soft drinks are included. A cash bar will be available.
Reservations are required for dinner and may be reserved using the form on the last page of the Cobblestone newsletter, by visiting the website at CobblestoneMuseum.org or calling the museum at (585) 589-9013. Tickets for the concert are available now, and some will be available at the door. Tickets are $20 for the concert, or $50 including dinner.
Photos courtesy of Care Net of Greater Orleans: Care Net Executive Director Robin Day and Scott Barbato present the “Celebrate Life” Award to the Mary Lou Tuohey and her daughter Nicole during the Care Net banquet last Thursday at the Carlton Rec Hall.
Press Release, Care Net of Greater Orleans
CARLTON – Jason McGuire, one of today’s leading voices on the sanctity of human life, addressed over three hundred people at the Care Net Center of Greater Orleans’ annual banquet.
McGuire serves as the Executive Director of New York Families Foundation. He is widely recognized as a key leader in the pro-life and pro-family movements; and is frequently called upon by media outlets for his expertise on New York State government and public policy.
Jason McGuire, executive director of New York Families Foundation, gave the keynote address at the Care Net banquet.
McGuire challenged the attendees to “help promote a culture of life in our community.”
“Each of us has a place in this battle,” McGuire said. “Let’s find our place and take a stand for truth.”
During the program, Mary Lou and Nicole Tuohey were honored with the Timothy J. Barbato “Celebrate Life” Award in recognition of their commitment to “valuing every human life as a God-given gift, and inspiring others to celebrate life as they do.”
Their over 30 years of fundraising efforts have benefited organizations like Arc GLOW and Alzheimer’s Association through Case-Nic cookie sales, basket raffles, and an untold number of private donations to needy community causes.
Debbie Coon displays two homemade quilts made by Char Marciniak that were auctioned off.
Care Net is a “Pro-Abundant Life” medical pregnancy center, offering free pregnancy testing, education, ultrasound confirmation, and sexual health and pregnancy resources. It does not refer for abortions.
Their services offer those who find themselves dealing with an unplanned pregnancy “the time they need to process, obtain critical information on their options, and make informed decisions about their future.”
They are located at 168 South Main St., Albion, and are open Tuesday through Thursday.
Tom Smith, right, and Gary Withey were part of the pre-program instrumental music.
ALBION – On Wednesday from 9 a.m. to approximately 2 p.m., the State Police will be assisting with an oversized load escort which may disrupt traffic patterns beginning in Albion and ending in Byron.
The width of this load will obstruct oncoming traffic.
Route 98 will be closed for an undisclosed amount of time to all traffic from Old Orchard Road to Lockport Road.
The height of this load will necessitate the lifting of most overhead wires and traffic control devices. The load will move into oncoming traffic to avoid overhead obstructions.
The weight of the load will keep speeds to around 5 to 10 miles per hour with many stoppages.
The permitted route of travel will begin on Hamilton Street in Albion proceed east on Allen Road then south on Oak Orchard Rd (Route 98) to east on Lockport Road in Elba. Then the load will continue on North Byron Road to south on Searls Road to east on Tower Hill Road. The trip ends south on Byron Road in the town of Byron.
It is recommended that if you encounter this load, move to the shoulder of the roadway, into a driveway or parking lot or seek an alternate route of travel to your destination. Lower your window and follow directions from State Police or escort vehicles.
Expect delays on those roads during business hours.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 5 May 2026 at 1:37 pm
Photo by Tom Rivers: The Medina Canal Basin is shown last summer with a houseboat, the Erie Floatel LLC, at left. Another boat owner wants to rent out a yacht as a short-term rental this canal season.
MEDINA – The Medina Village Board has two requests from boat owners to lease space in the Canal Basin this upcoming canal season.
But village officials first want input from the State Canal Corp., where there has been a big increase in using houseboats for short-term rentals on the Erie Canal, said Jeff Wagner, the Medina village trustee.
He has been speaking the Canal Corp. officials about how to best handle the requests. The new canal season starts on May 15 and goes until Oct. 14.
Medina approved a lease in its basin last summer for the Erie Floatel, LLC. That boat was operated by Andrew Meier and Svein Lilleby and it stayed on the south side of the canal, using one of the village’s floating docks.
Medina charged a lease fee of $220, plus another $100 for electric and water consumption for the season.
Rollin Hellner owns a 34-foot-long yacht that he would like to rent out through Airbnb. His father Brian Hellner ran a tour boat business from the Canal Basin but won’t be doing that this year. Rollin would like to keep his boat in the same slip where his father docked the North Star. This is the same boat that Rollin would like to rent out for overnight stays.
“We intend to operate under the same rules, requirements, and fee structure that have already been established and approved for vessel-based Airbnb operations within the Village,” Hellner said in a letter to the Village Board on April 13. “This will be a continuation of an established and successful lodging option that supports tourism and brings additional visitors to Medina’s waterfront and local businesses.”
The Erie Floatel, LLC made its debut in Medina last summer. It is available as a short-term rental directly on the Erie Canal.
Andrew Meier, in an April 13 letter to the board, said Erie Floatel had a great first year last summer with universally positive feedback, earning a rare “5.0 Guest Favorite” status on Airbnb. The houseboat will be exclusively listed on Airbnb and VRBO this year, without direct bookings, Meier said in a letter to the board.
The Erie Floatel is moored and not drivable by guests. There is a two-person maximum occupancy.
Meier offered to pay $500 towards utilities for the boat, up from the $100 in the initial lease.
“The houseboat resulted in many unique visitors to Medina through the course of the summer, who patronized local retail shops and eateries,” Meier write. “It further generated direct revenue to the Village in the form of nightly occupancy taxes. From all accounts, the enterprise was a ‘win-win.’”
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 5 May 2026 at 10:30 am
ALBION – The Albion school district’s proposed 2026-27 budget will again be holding the line on property taxes, the 18th time in the past 20 years without a tax increase.
Registered voters in the Albion school district will go to the polls on May 19 from noon to 8 p.m. at the Hoag Library, 134 South Main St. A district art show will also be on display at the library during the vote.
“We are proud to once again propose a tax levy with no increase, continuing our long-standing effort to either reduce or maintain the levy whenever possible,” said Linda Weller, the Board of Education president. “While rising operational costs and uncertainty in state and federal funding continue to present challenges, we remain committed to balancing fiscal responsibility with meaningful investment in our students and programs.”
The district is proposing a $45,615,036 budget, which is up 1.93 percent or $864,551 from the current budget.
The tax levy will stay at $8,449,039, which is $359,906 under the district’s tax cap.
“Our priorities include maintaining small class sizes, strengthening student support services, enhancing technology and ensuring our facilities remain safe, functional and well-maintained,” Weller said the district’s budget newsletter.
School officials will discuss the budget during a public hearing at 6 p.m. on May 12 at the LGI in the high school.
The vote on May 19 includes proposition one for the budget and proposition two to allow spending $1.5 million for buses. Proposition three allows the district to collect $687,760 for Hoag Library.
There are also three candidates for three seats on the Board of Education. The incumbents – Trellis Pore, Kurt Schmitt and David Sidari – all are not seeking re-election.
The two candidates with the most votes get five-year terms while the candidate with the third most votes gets a one-year term.
The candidates include:
• Kaitlyn Panek – A farm office manager, Panek is an Albion graduate. She said she brings organizational and financial expertise as well as a personal commitment to the district.
“My top priority is maintaining a high-quality, safe environment where every student has the resources to succeed,” she said. “I am invested in having transparency between the community and district to ensure budgets are clear and accountable.”
• Jaime Allport – A court clerk for the Town of Albion, Allport is a lifelong Albion resident who said she understands the community’s values, strengths and challenges. She has been a long-time volunteer, especially with the Albion youth football program.
“My perspective, combined with a proven record of service, will help guide thoughtful decisions that benefit both current students and future generations,” she said.
• Michelle Waters – The owner of the Tree House School of Play in Albion, Waters said strong schools are built through open communication, thoughtful decision-making and a willingness to listen.
“My goal is to help shape schools that keep students at the center, while supporting teachers and staff who show up for them every day,” Waters said.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 5 May 2026 at 8:51 am
Albion public library will seek $687,760 in May 19 vote, up from $657,560 for 2025
Photo by Tom Rivers: Betty Sue Miller, director of Hoag Library in Albion, goes over the library’s budget during the annual meeting on Monday.
ALBION – Hoag Library has a new trustee following Monday’s election with Jessica George eking out a victory over Rachel Hicks with 26 votes to 25. Voters also re-elected Linda Weller with 32 votes and Mary Witkop with 29.
The trustees then met and again named Weller as board president and Witkop as the vice president. Dawn Squicciarini will serve as board secretary and George was picked to be the treasurer, a spot that was filled by Hicks.
There were 51 voters for Monday’s election. The trustees were elected to four-year terms.
The library also held its 126th annual meeting. Weller said the library has proven to be an important part of the community, offering far more than just loaning out books.
“The Hoag Library of Albion continues to stand as a vibrant cornerstone of the community,” she said. “Its success is not by chance – it is the result of dedication, care and collaboration of many people who believe deeply in its mission.”
Weller commended the staff for offering a variety of programs and making the library a welcoming place for everyone. She said the trustees have been committed to being good stewards of the budget and making the library “sustainable, forward-looking and responsive to the needs to today – and tomorrow.”
Hoag has a $721,550 overall budget for 2026 with $687,760 in the school district vote on May 19. That is up from the $657,560 through property taxes approved a year ago.
Other areas of the library funding include $2,790 from the county, $18,000 in contributions and donations, $9,000 in library services and fees (Fax, copier and book fines), and $4,000 in state library aid.
The library budget would be $75,000 higher if it still had a mortgage. But that was paid off in 2022 when Maurice “Mo” Hoag and his wife Courtenay gave a final $200,000 donation to the library. The couple has given $1 million to the library, including an initial $250,000 to help get it built in 2012. Their donations after the first $250,000 have allowed Hoag to pay off the mortgage well ahead of schedule, saving $75,000 a year. The mortgage was planned to go to 2035.
Betty Sue Miller, the library director, said the library continues to receive donations from the community. She noted Conrad Cropsey gave a large table and desk from his law office. He closed his office in downtown Albion and continues to work as a lawyer from his home in Barre. The table is up in the loft at the library and many people use it to play games or study. Cropsey’s desk is used in the local history room.
The Friends of the Library used its funds to buy a 3-D printer that is available to the public.
The circulation for 2025 includes: physical items – 29,775 books, 6,993 non-books, 62 HotSpots and 36 laptops. Digital items – Hoopla, 6,912 and Libby, 5,370. There were 1,777 new physical items.
Other highlights: 564 library programs and community outreach efforts; 827 notarized documents; 5,446 items borrowed through Nioga inter-loan; 4,253 items loaned out through inter-loan; 838-plus learning and support sessions at library for GED, ESL, tech advisor and other literacy programs; 1,480 public meeting room uses.
Miller said she is amazed how busy the three rooms are for meetings, concerts, events and smaller sessions.
“Imagine if this building had not been built with that space,” Miller said about the meeting rooms. “The people who built this were very forward-thinking.”
MEDINA – Velocitii, a Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) company, is proud to announce its recognition as a recipient of the Top Workplaces 2026 award presented by Rochester Top Workplaces.
This year, Velocitii earned 14th place in the Mid-Size Company category, reflecting the organization’s continued commitment to building a strong, people-first workplace culture.
This recognition highlights Velocitii’s ongoing dedication to fostering employee engagement, supporting professional growth, and strengthening a culture centered on collaboration and accountability. Over the past year, the company has continued to invest in initiatives designed to enhance the employee experience, including expanded engagement programs, structured feedback channels, ongoing leadership development efforts, and continued refinement of internal recognition and growth opportunities.
“At Velocitii, we believe the best outcomes start with empowered people. When our teams feel supported, connected, and equipped to succeed, that impact carries through to every client we serve.” said Jeff Brandt, CIO at Velocitii. “Being recognized as a Top Workplace once again is an honor, and it reflects the progress we continue to make in building a more efficient, supportive, and employee-focused organization.”
This achievement underscores the importance of prioritizing employee satisfaction and engagement within the competitive BPO industry. Velocitii’s continued recognition as a Top Workplace reflects its commitment to building a sustainable culture where employees can grow, contribute meaningfully, and thrive.
About Velocitii:
We partner with brands and organizations to create opportunities, find new customers, generate revenue, and build powerful connections at every touchpoint. Velocitii delivers a complete suite of business services and excels in designing solutions that align with client business goals, strategy, and financial objectives. We thrive on managing complex customer interactions. Our culture empowers our agents, leading to reduced attrition and consistent attainment of performance goals.
492 bottles of beer seized from Kendall Hotel in 1914
Photo from Orleans County Department of History: This photo of the Kendall Hotel is dated 1935. Opened in 1901, the building escaped several destructive village fires. Later known as the Kendall Inn, it is now a restaurant named The Grove 1848.
By Catherine Cooper, Orleans County Historian
“Illuminating Orleans” – Volume 6, No. 11
KENDALL – The Kendall Agricultural Club, which assembled at the Kendall Hotel in 1913-1914, played a role in the Temperance campaign leading up to Prohibition.
As early as 1912, six of the ten towns of Orleans County were “dry” or “no-license” to use the parlance of the day, meaning that the sale of alcohol was prohibited in these jurisdictions. The energetic lobbying efforts of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union (W.C.T.U.) had secured these local victories.
However, not all residents were in favor of these restrictions. Taking advantage of a loophole in the 1896 NYS Liquor License Law, Farmers or Agricultural Clubs were organized in dry towns. One such was the Kendall Agricultural Club.
Incorporated in the summer of 1913, it had the stated goal of “the scientific study of agriculture and horticulture, the effect of insectivorous pests” and other farming questions. Club members were allowed access to the two hotel rooms rented at the Kendall Hotel. Members who paid $1 were given a ticket which allowed them 20 bottles of beer. They could also fill out continuous order vouchers directing the Bartholomew Brewing Company to deliver them one case of beer weekly.
Soon there were four other flourishing Farmer’s Agricultural Clubs in the county, three in the town of Gaines and one in Lyndonville.
However, the Temperance League was a force to be reckoned with. An article in the Buffalo Sunday Morning News of Feb. 8, 1914, mentions that the Orleans County Temperance League held their meeting with church temperance organizations to discuss lobbying plans for upcoming local elections at the Court House in Albion.
The article also mentions that several detectives had been employed by temperance leaders of the Town of Kendall to conduct investigations. Shortly after their departure, on January 16, 1914, Constable Louis J. Cady of the Town of Kendall filed a petition with the Supreme Court Justice, Cuthbert W. Pound, alleging that Warren C. Miller, Ida C. Miller, Ray Miller and Garret Rocque had liquor at the Kendall Hotel for the purpose of unlawful sale and distribution.
The following day, Constable William C. Singleton of the Town of Ridgeway seized 492 bottles of beer and one bottle containing whiskey from the Kendall Hotel.
In response, Norman Lindaler, Oscar Lind, William Scheplar, John H. Scheplar, Atley Stevens, John J. Norton, Ray R. Miller, Thomas Jeffrey, William Scheik, Garret Recqua, Henry Scheik, Otto Greinke, Henry Scheplar, Charles Backus and Cornelius Fenner, each filed a claim that they were part owners of the seized beer.
They said that they were members of the Kendall Agricultural Club, a duly incorporated club, and that they each had their own beer at the hotel lawfully, that it was for their personal consumption, and not for sale or distribution.
Medina Daily Journal headline, Feb. 3, 1914
At a hearing at the Court House in Albion on February 16, 1914, Supreme Court Justice Cuthbert W. Pound of Lockport presided over the case of the State Commissioner of Excise against the 492 seized bottles of beer. An unusual case, it had no precedent in the district. At issue was whether “Agricultural Clubs” were operating as a pretext for the unlawful sale of alcohol and avoiding the excise tax law.
The four members of the club who testified confirmed the social aspects of their activities, though none could remember any occasion on which they actually discussed any aspect of agriculture.
Judge Pound heard the evidence of Raymond Miller, who conducted the Club, and of four members of the club whose testimony confirmed the social aspects of their activities. He then took the case from the jury and directed that “it appears without dispute that this alcohol was kept within the state for unlawful distribution and that the jury is directed to take proper judgement for seizure of the same and its turning over to the State Excise Dept. to be auctioned off according to the new law by that department.”
He also stated that he did not think that there was any evidence to show that Raymond Miller was guilty of unlawful selling of beer. He directed that the Kendall Agricultural Club and similar organizations were “illegal and had been perfected for the purpose of trafficking in liquors and the evasion of liquor tax law” (Buf. Enq., 2-17-14)
New York State Excise Commissioner Farley hailed the verdict as a severe blow to the evasion of the law by these so called “clubs” and in the enforcement of excise laws in dry towns.
HOLLEY – The school district is proposing a $32,687,000 budget that increases spending by 6.2 percent and would raise taxes by 2.5 percent.
ALBION – The Albion school district’s proposed 2026-27 budget will again be holding the line on property taxes, the 18th time in the past 20 years without a tax increase.
KENDALL – The Kendall Agricultural Club, which assembled at the Kendall Hotel in 1913-1914, played a role in the Temperance campaign leading up to Prohibition.
