Scio: Nathan Black is valedictorian, Cassidy Scholla is salutatorian
SCIO — The faculty and administration of Scio Central School announced that Nathan Black is valedictorian of the Class of 2026, while Cassidy Scholla is salutatorian.
Black has distinguished himself through exceptional academic achievement and a strong commitment to his school community. He consistently maintained his position at the top of his class while challenging himself with rigorous coursework, including advanced classes from his freshman through senior years. He earned numerous academic honors, includ-
ing the RIT Computing Award, the Xerox Award for Innovation and Information Technology and the Clarkson University HS Leadership Award. Beyond the classroom, Nathan has been
involved in a wide range of school activities, including the National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society, as well as the Future Business Leaders of America, Student Council, Foreign Language Club and History Club. He also participated in athletics for many years, earning multiple soccer awards such as Most Improved and Most Dedicated.
Outside of school, Black balanced his academic and extracurricular commitments with part-time work at Taco Bell and Mike’s on the Corner, while also volunteering.
ALFRED — Families and friends celebrated as approximately 1,000 Alfred State students crossed the stage Saturday at the college’s 115th commencement at Pioneer Stadium.
“Each of you has navigated challenges, embraced opportunities, and persevered to reach this milestone,” stated Alfred State President Dr. Steven Mauro. “The journey speaks not only to your determination, but to a growing sense of purpose that will guide you well beyond today.”
Mauro continued his tradition of presenting a video that allowed graduating students to thank those who were influential in their journey at the college.
In the fall, he will attend SUNY Binghamton, where he plans to study computer science.
Scholla has also distinguished herself through an outstanding combination of academic achievement, leadership and extracurricular involvement.
She will attend St. Bonaventure University, where she plans to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in communications with a focus on social justice advocacy.
During her high school career, Scholla has been a dedicated member of the track program for six years, earning MVP honors, winning a
He also presented Walter Sass with an honorary degree. The Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, bestowed by the State University of New York, honors Sass for his impact to Alfred State, to his industry and to his community. Student Speaker Gabriella Thurmond challenged her fellow graduates. “Look for the garden you want to build. Look for the wall you are going to scale. When it gets cold, colder than any morning, remember that your legacy isn’t built in the moments of comfort. It’s built in the climb: the laughs, the smiles, the stress, the pressure, the cries, the seasonal blues, all of it.”
sectional championship and setting a school record in the high jump. She has also demonstrated exceptional leadership as president and secretary of the National Honor Society, class president for four years, and president of FBLA. In addition, she has participated in soccer and the Investment Club.
Scholla has been recognized with several prestigious honors, including the RIT Art Award, Scholar-Athlete distinction, the St. Bonaventure Scholar Award and the George Eastman Young Leaders Award.
“Scio Central School
Levi Peterson added this advice, “As we continue down our separate paths, we will face many different and unforeseen challenges. It is always important to remember that the challenges we face are not what defines us, but instead it is the actions we take to overcome them that do.”
“As we all sit here together, we think about what’s next,” commented Allison Bateson in her speech. “We are all going to drive through Alfred State’s one traffic light, one last time. Some of us know exactly where we’re going, others not so much and both are okay. If there is one thing we can all do in our future endeavors, it is to do everything with
congratulates Nathan Black and Cassidy Scholla on their outstanding achievements and wishes them continued success in all of their future endeavors,” district officials stated.
maximum effort.”
A major component of the ceremony was the presentation of the Paul B. Orvis Award for Excellence to six graduating students. The award honors Paul B. Orvis, a former president of Alfred State and State University of New York executive dean for all two-year colleges. Recipients meet the criteria of service, leadership, character and scholarship. Receiving the award were Peterson and Janiesha Dureny from the School of Applied Technology, Karlee Hargather and MacKenzie Lada from the School of Arts and Sciences, and
Gerald F. Wight Jr., longtime teacher, coach in Cuba
Nathan Black
Cassidy Scholla
Photo provided by Alfred State College Alfred State College hosted its 115th commencement ceremony on Saturday.
Enthusiastic public views Alfred State student plans for Babcock Theatre
BY KATHRYN ROSS
WELLSVILLE — Alfred State College architectural design students have unveiled their plans for revitalizing the Babcock Theatre.
A larger than expected crowd came out Wednesday evening at the Creative Arts Center to view 17 panels depicting the students’ work.
The students’ plans for the renovation of Wellsville’s historic theater were also scrutinized by a panel of historians, members of the Landmark Society and architects as part of their final class projects.
The students received feedback from the panel and were given time to refine their plans before exhibiting them to the public.
Wednesday marked the end of the semester and when the exhibition closed the students headed for their summer
activities. Two received $50 awards for their designs.
Babcock Theatre Preservation Society board member Chaz LaGreca, who was integral to organizing the student involvement with the theater project, contributed $100 to the students with the most-liked projects. Upon arrival, each visitor received a movie ticket to vote for the project they liked best.
The students were divided into two classes, one directed by Matt Dirado and the other led by Beth Joyce, the architectural design course instructors.
Dirado said, “The theater is a real gem for the Wellsville community. There is a lot of potential here. This project gave our students experience with working within building codes and historic preservation guidelines.”
The two winning
➡Alfred State Graduation
Nicholas Bonham and Jessica Ficarra from the School of Architecture, Management and Engineering Technology.
The commencement ceremonies featured student speakers from each of the three schools at the college: Peterson represented the School of Applied Technology, Bateson represented the School of Arts and Science and Thurmond represented the School of Architecture, Management and Engineering Technology.
Meanwhile, Alfred State 1978 graduate Walter Sass was award-
with the village’s tree board to prevent another such episode that disturbs residents.
Trustee Tim Colligan said, “We made a mistake; we will do a better job.”
Glickstein stepped up to update the board on the theater project and the new programs relating to it.
“It’s our busy season,” he started.
He told the board about the Santa Parade and the puppet program BTPS members are currently undertaking with the Chamber of Commerce. He explained that it is part of the grant application process for the theater project to show community involvement.
The first scheduled Puppet Workshop is May 16 at David A. Howe Library.
He also invited the board and the community to attend a May 6 program at the Wellsville Creative Arts Center between 4 and 6 p.m., when architectural students from Alfred State College will reveal their conceptual plans for the interior and exterior renovation of the Babcock.
designs were rendered by Jennifer Morataya Garcia of Katanah and Nick Bevacqua of Binghamton.
Comments from the architectural students were positive with most saying preserving the historic interior design and its art deco style were the hardest part of their design plans. In their exterior renderings many of those students improved on the mar-
continued from PAGE 1
ed an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters by the State University of New York. Sass is a respected leader in his field, a first-generation college graduate, and a generous community advocate.
Sass has maintained a deep and lasting connection with his alma mater throughout a distinguished career in civil engineering and surveying.
After earning his associate degree in surveying, he relocated to Texas, where he began working at Weisser Engineering. By 1987, he
“We’re excited to see their plans,” he said. He also said the BTPS is working with the Flexlume Company of Buffalo on an upgrade for the marquee.
“All this would not be possible if (the village board) had not moved to take the building off the auction block,” Glickstein concluded.
Trustee Ken Didion showed his fellow trustees a poster created by fifth-grader Evelyn Joyce, winner of the Arbor Day Poster contest. The poster will be on display for the next year in the village office lobby. The poster was revealed at Monday’s Arbor Day celebration where a tree was planted at the elementary school. In other matters:
• The board approved a peddling and soliciting application for Darlene Stevens to operate a food cart in the village. She will sell hot dogs, hamburgers and soda in approved locations.
• Fahs proclaimed Elks National Youth Week to take place in the village May 1-7. During that week the
Outdoors
had acquired the company and led it through significant growth from just three employees to over 125 while navigating industry shifts, technological advancements and economic challenges. Now retired from day-to-day leadership, he has passed the business to his children, having built a legacy rooted in hard work, innovation and community service.
Sass’s contributions to Alfred State are extensive, including nearly $120,000 in donations of cutting-edge surveying equipment, labo-
Elks will recognize the accomplishments and contributions of local youth.
• The board approved the request for proposals for the cost to improve the Gateway Project at State Street and the Arterial and a request for quotes for the contractors involved in the New York Forward Small Grants projects.
• The board approved a $100,000 loan from the village’s revolving loan fund to bridge the gap for reimbursement from the state for the Wellsville Wellness Psychological Services LLC project.
• Arnold asked for approval of the Rinker Oil Company’s bid to provide fuel for the village departments — $2.87 per gallon for unleaded, $3.88 per gallon for diesel and $3.90 for winter blend. It was approved.
He also reported that Ryan Stisser will purchase the village’s 1993 wood chopper for $750 after his successful bid.
• The board approved moving the date of its second meeting in May to May 26 at 5:30 p.m. in the village hall.
• After an executive session, there was a
experience for the students.” Glickstein added that he was surprised by the public turnout. “It shows just how much the public is interested in the preservation of the Babcock Theatre.”
quee design and once again utilized the art deco colors and designs that were popular in the 1930s. The Warner brothers purchased the original 1919 theater in the ‘30s and renovated it, utilizing popular art deco motifs.
“I thought all of the students did an excellent job,” LaGreca said.
BTPS chair Barry Glickstein agreed and said, “It was a good
ratory upgrades, and student workstations. His support extends beyond financial giving — he mentors students, facilitates career opportunities and frequently returns to campus to inspire future surveyors.
His impact reaches well beyond Alfred, as he and his company actively support nearly 40 nonprofit and educational organizations annually.
The Alfred State faculty quartet performed the national anthem and the college’s alma mater.
request made by Colligan for the acceptance and approval of the results of the request for quote analysis for the water treatment project and approval to move forward to negotiate a cost accordingly to include the scope of work, updating engineering and researching grants. The motion was passed unanimously.
The architectural plans were given to the BTPS. Glickstein said they will also receive the plans shown to the review panel via email. He hopes to be able to show the students’ designs in a public venue again, to allow more people to see the ideas. Plans are in the discussion stages, but may include a public
showing at the library and/or a display in front of the theater during the Main Street Festival on Balloon Rally weekend
The students who participated in the architectural redesign for the theatre are: Aly Belmont, Nicholas Bevacqua, Randall Wilson, Dimitri Thompson, Nora Schlander, Daniel Marroquin-Torres, Justie Perez, Jackson Volosik, Jacob Loveland, Nicole Poche, Eugene Worrell, Jennifer Morataya Garcia, Jahkaar Brundidge, Olivia Dimaria, Amber Steiner, Sam Posecznick and Luis Pozo Montesdeoca.
Photo by Kathryn Ross
The winners of $50 each for the Alfred State architectural project for the redesign of the Babcock Theatre, Jennifer Morataya Garcia (second from left) and Nick Bevacqua (second from right) are flanked by their instructors, Beth Joyce (left) and Matt Dirado.
➡Wellsville Village Board continued from PAGE 2
home improvement
How to establish a home renovation budget
Homeowners know that the next home renovation project is always right around the corner. And that means finding ways to finance such undertakings. When planning for renovations, the average homeowner underestimates their project cost by approximately 22 percent, according to the 2026 Remodeling Impact Report. Establishing a pre-project budget can help avoid such surprises. Don’t over-improve A common mistake homeowners make is over-improving a home beyond the neighborhood value. A good rule of thumb is to employ the average percentage-of-home-value
continued on PAGE 6
home improvement
will comprise the next largest chunk, typically coming in between 25 and 35 percent. Homeowners also should factor about 15 to 20 percent of a budget to a safety net to cover unforeseen expenses, like mold remediation or structural issues. Get three quotes It’s important for homeowners to get several estimates before establishing a budget. Experts advise working with contractors that offer fixed-price contracts rather than those that list time and materials;
otherwise, there may be a mid-project price hike that comes out of the blue. A person also can ask contractors for a line-item bid so it’s possible to see where money can be trimmed through different material choices. With a list of desired items in hand, and acceptable substitutions if the cost comes in too high, homeowners can create a budget that works.
Saving versus splurging It’s important for homeowners to be realistic about their renova-
tions. They can splurge on items that are seen or touched every day, like door handles, cabinet pulls and faucets. Other items, like lighting fixtures or backsplashes, can be replaced down the road. It may be better to direct funds to structural elements or those “invisible renovations” like upgrading insulation or smart systems that save on energy costs and improve efficiency.
Keep a 20 percent cushion
Homeowners can determine the afford-
ability if a proposed project ends up costing 20 percent more or takes a few months longer. If the answer is no, homeowners should scale back the project budget until they have that financial safety net. Alliant Credit Union says experts strongly recommend adding a 20 percent contingency cushion to a remodeling budget. A home remodeling project is a big commitment of time and money. Budgeting correctly ensures that there are few, if any, surprises along the way.
BY RAY MAGLIOZZI automotive
Dear Car Talk:
Do any of the self-service products for cleaning front plastic headlight covers really
work well, or is the professional service the only good choice?
— Don
Yes, they can work. I’d say having it done professionally is often
better. And replacing the headlight lens is best of all. What happens is that, over time, the polycarbonate coating on your headlight lens wears out and the lens gets cloudy and yellow. That eventually “filters” your headlights and limits how much light gets out onto the road in front of you. Repairing these cloudy lenses is a twopart process. The first step is sanding off the old, worn-out coating. Do-it-yourself kits have you use an electric drill,
spinning a piece of sandpaper until the lens is perfectly clear again.
Once it’s 100% clear, you apply a new coating to the lens to protect it from turning yellow and cloudy again. And the lenses come out much clearer. And do improve the headlight performance at night.
When we do it at the shop, we have better sanding equipment, we’ve done hundreds of them, so we know when we’ve sanded enough, and most of our guys remember to tape around the headlight, so we
rarely sand off customers’ paint anymore -- at least on the newer cars.
There’s probably also a difference in the quality of the replacement coating from kit to kit, but I can’t really speak to that. The repair doesn’t last forever. The more exposure your lenses have to the sun, the faster that protective coat will wear down again.
So, it’s not a perfect nor
Some bright ideas for cloudy headlights
a permanent solution. What is? Replacing the actual headlight lens. But that’s expensive, which is why a lot of people opt for these kits. A middle ground is to ask your mechanic or a local body shop to do it for you. At least that way, if they sand off your paint, you’ll already be at the body shop, Don.
Thelma Rogers Genealogical & Historical Society announces community grant distributions
WELLSVILLE — Preserving and celebrating the rich history of Wellsville isn’t something only one organization can accomplish alone — it takes a network of groups, volunteers and community-minded leaders.
With that spirit of collaboration in mind, the board of the Thelma Rogers Genealogical & Historical Society (TRGHS) recognized that the impact of the inaugural Jingle & Glow could reach even further.
Thanks to the generosity of sponsors and supporters, proceeds from the first Jingle & Glow helped advance TRGHS’s mission and the Nathaniel Dike Museum. Proceeds also created an opportunity for TRGHS to support other programs and initiatives that preserve the community’s heritage and sustain its stories for generations to come.
The TRGHS board made the decision to share a portion of the Jingle & Glow proceeds with the following organizations, in recognition of their commitment to preserving and enhancing the history and character of Wellsville and the surrounding area:
• Fassett Greenspace will receive a grant to enhance its area for
events and programs. By maintaining this open green space tied to the Fassett name, it honors the impact that family had on the development of the village and at the same time preserves identity, memory and community pride.
• Babcock Theatre will receive a grant to support the new Christmas Puppet Parade, chaired by board member, Elissa Goetches, to coincide with the Chamber’s Hometown Parade and Jingle & Glow, making new history.
• Emerald Hook and Ladder Company will receive support will
help them continue its long tradition and history of protecting Wellsville and the surrounding communities.
• The Wellsville Junior Firefighter Program builds the next generation of first responders while fostering community pride and service.
• Dating back to the 19th century, Woodlawn Cemetery is one of the oldest in the Wellsville area. It serves as a lasting record of Wellsville’s past, honoring generations of residents who helped shape our community.
• The origins of the
health & Wellness
David A. Howe Public Library date back as far as 1856 and the current building is an iconic part of Wellsville’s historical fabric. This grant will be used to bring a program for the 202627 season.
“On behalf of the board of the TRGHS, I want to extend heartfelt thanks to the generous sponsors and supporters who made our first Jingle & Glow such a success,” said board member Jackie Comstock. “Because of their support, TRGHS was able to create a beautiful and memorable event for the community while also giving back in a
way that truly makes a difference. Supporting local history through celebration is something very special indeed.”
Planning is now underway for the 2nd Annual Jingle & Glow 2026, organized by the Thelma Rogers Genealogical Historical Society, which promises to once again bring the commu-
nity together for a festive and meaningful holiday experience at the Fassett Greenspace. Sponsorship opportunities for Jingle & Glow 2026 are available. Those interested in supporting this new community tradition are encouraged to contact Comstock for more information at (585) 593-4551.
Cornell Cooperative Extension offers mushroom growing workshop
BELMONT — Cornell Cooperative Extension has announced it will hold a new workshop, Growing Gourmet Mushrooms at Home, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. May 22 at CCE Allegany County Office, 5435 Route 48.
Curious about growing your gourmet mushrooms safely and successfully, without expensive equipment? Join organizers for a hands-on workshop led by Don Gasiewicz, horticulture/natural resource program manager from Cornell Cooperative Extension of Wyoming County. The program is being extended to Allegany County participants for the first time.
In this workshop you will learn and practice: Home-grown mushroom cultivation techniques
• Log maintenance
• Inoculate a log with mycelium, producing edible gourmet shiitake mushrooms for years
Participants will be able to take your own shiitake log home. To join, visit allegany.cce.cornell.edu/events, look for the event and register to secure your spot. The workshop fee is $30, which includes all materials. For any questions, contact Cristian Acosta at cfa34@ cornell.edu or by calling (585) 268-7644 ext. 14.
Tips to stay motivated to exercise
Lack of motivation can be a difficult hurdle to clear when approaching any activity or goal. And that’s particularly so with fitness-related goals, as lack of motivation to exercise, which many people find boring and unenjoyable, is an oft-cited reason for living a sedentary lifestyle.
The benefits of exercise, which include decreased risk for chronic disease, weight management, and improved mental health, should be all the motivation anyone needs to get up and go. But some people still need a little help to ensure they stay the course and achieve their fitness goals. People can try these strategies if their motivation to exercise is lacking.
• Embrace a new routine. While millions of people can’t imagine a day without breaking a sweat at the gym, others find gym-based workouts a little tedious and lacking in excitement. If that outlook sounds familiar, individuals can embrace new exercise routines that engage them. Sports provide great exercise, so adults can look into activities like pickleball, jogging and cycling to break a sweat and get fit. Each of those activities can greatly improve cardiovascular fitness and help people maintain healthy weights.
• Set small goals along the way to larger ones. Fitness-related progress does not come overnight, so what appears to be a lack of daily results can make it difficult to stay committed for the long haul.
Setting short-term goals along the way to long-term ones can provide all the motivation people need to keep going. For example, if your ultimate goal is to lose 10 pounds, set a one-pound-per-week shorter goal. Being able to measure your progress each week can motivate you to stay the course.
• Remind yourself why you’re looking to get more fit. There’s no bad reason to get fit.
Some people who find they lack the motivation to keep going simply need to remind themselves why they started an exercise regimen in the first place. Did you want to shed
weight before a class reunion? Get healthy so you can be more active with your children? Exercise more to reduce your risk for a disease or condition that runs in your family? By routinely reminding yourself why you initially set out to get more fit, you may provide that little extra spark you need to stay the course. Set up smartphone notifications as reminders if you feel you need a daily refresher regarding your motivation to exercise.
• Make it a family affair. The buddy system is effective in many applications, and it can be particularly good at motivat-
ing people to stay the course and achieve their fitness goals.
Encourage a spouse, sibling, friend, or even your whole family to join you as you begin your journey to a healthier you. With someone there to get you going each day, you’re less likely to skip workouts.
Staying motivated to exercise may not be easy. But there’s a number of things people can do to ensure their motivation to get fit does not wane.
Office for the Aging
Providing expert, unbiased information and
Photo provided
Pictured from left are Jackie Comstock, Kate Elliott and Annie Comstock at the David A. Howe Library.