‘Martha Memmott Corner’ added to children’s area at Little Valley library
Routine maintenance is required to ensure the safety and performance of any vehicle. Although vehicle owners have different options when it comes to servicing their cars and trucks, including doing it themselves or visiting an independent auto repair center, there are various benefits to using a dealership for servicing needs.
According to a study by Kelley Blue Book, 35 percent of all cars were serviced at a dealership in 2021. By 2023, that figure had dropped to 30 percent. Service chains, like tire service centers and quick lube brands, are gaining ground in the automotive servicing market. Here are six reasons why consumers may want to think about returning to the dealership to maintain their vehicles.
1. Cost KBB says that owners are not saving much by shifting their business to service centers. In 2023, the average dealership service visit cost $258, while a visit to a nondealer service center was $249 on average. Customers may be able to negotiate
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Tips to plan a summer adventure
Few people would deny summer is a season of relaxation. But that familiar laid back vibe does not mean summer also can’t be a time for adventure.
The definition of an adventure depends on who does the defining. To some, an adventure may entail relaxing on a boat as it sways back and forth on a serene lake or in a calm ocean. For others,
adrenaline levels need to rise in order for an activity to qualify as an adventure. It’s perfectly alright for people to define adventure in their own unique way. However one chooses to define an adventure, the following are some summer adventure planning pointers that can make an upcoming excursion more enjoyable.
with dealerships where they purchased the car for lower prices or coupon incentives, as dealerships typically like to build relationships with customers to ensure repeat business.
2. Original equipment manufacturer parts A big advantage to going to the dealership for service is original equipment manufacturer parts, known as OEM parts and accessories. OEM means the components used in the service or repair will be the same as those used by the manufacturer in their own workshops, guaranteeing both quality and compatibility, according to DCH Honda. This can be especially important for electrical components.
3. Certified technicians Modern vehicles are complex and unique between make and model. Visiting a dealership for service means you’ll be getting a service technician who has specific knowledge about the vehicles that dealership sells. Technicians at dealerships have to be manufacturer-certified, meaning they will have the
most up-to-date knowledge and access to cutting-edge equipment.
4. Warranty savings
More often than not, new vehicles come with manufacturer warranties. Certain service may be covered by the manufacturer or dealership at no cost to the vehicle owner. Plus, the dealership can easily look up and apply the warranty pricing if applicable. Also, the service may need to be performed at a dealership by a certified technician for a warranty to continue to be valid.
5. Accessible records If and when the time comes time to sell a vehicle, having a handy log of all servicing can be advantageous. This is easier to come by if all of the visits took place at a dealership. They can simply pull up a record of the vehicle and provide it to the owner; otherwise, one may scramble to compile the vehicle history from various service centers.
6. Loaner vehicle Oftentimes dealerships will provide courtesy cars to customers while service is taking place. This means that customers will not be inconvenienced if repairs take a day or more, and will not have to spend out-ofpocket to get a rental car.
Even if customers know and trust an independent mechanic, or feel confident in their own repair skills, there are times when going to a dealership for servicing may be a better idea.
• Choose your destination and route. Heading off for parts unknown with no itinerary may seem like the ultimate adventure. However, a lack of planning can quickly derail a getaway. Traffic, fellow tourists, lodging shortages, and other unwanted developments are all likely when vacationers do not plan ahead. By planning an adventure in advance, travelers can choose routes that are less likely to be overcome with traffic, book stays in memorable and comfortable accommodations and steer clear of crowded tourist destinations.
• Leave yourself some leeway. Of course, planning ahead does not require planning every second of each day you will be traveling. Leave yourself some wiggle room and free time to head off the beaten path if you so desire. Avoid making dinner reservations for each night you’re traveling, as doing so might lead
you to prioritize making the reservation over exploring. Instead, build in some days and nights where you can go at your own pace without having to rush to ensure you make it to a prearranged activity or dinner reservation on time.
• Pack food and beverages. Nothing can derail an adventure more quickly than thirst and/or a growling stomach. Going off the grid or enjoying an adventure without a schedule dictating your every moment is easier when you pack food and beverages. Depending on where you’re going, the nearest eatery could be far away, which means travelers who don’t pack food and beverages are likely to spend more time driving in search of sustenance than they are enjoying an adventure.
• Make a contingency plan. Road trips are not as predictable as excursions to resorts that make no secret about all guests can enjoy during their
stay. Traffic, large crowds and weather can turn an adventurous road trip into an exercise in managing frustration. A contingency plan that includes a detailed list of alternative activities and destinations can ensure an adventure does not become a nightmare if forces beyond your control present themselves.
• Ask for everyone’s input. Everyone, even solo travelers, can benefit from additional insight when planning an adventure. Parents can ask their children if there’s anything in particular they want to do during a trip so kids are equally excited about the vacation. Solo travelers can ask friends and family members for advice about potential activities and sights to see during their trip.
Planning a summer adventure can be its own enjoyable experience that heightens travelers’ anticipation for an upcoming trip.
8 games to try at the next backyard
Games can enhance any outdoor function. Whether at the beach or in one’s backyard, activities can keep guests entertained in between the food and other refreshments. And the good news is that most games designed for these types of functions are appropriate for players across a wide range of ages.
The following are eight games that can add to the excitement of any outdoor gathering.
1. Ladder toss: Also known as ladder golf, this game requires players to toss stringattached balls onto a laddershaped target. Points are awarded depending on which rung the ball lands on.
2. Kubb: Pronounced “KOOB,” this Swedish lawn game believed to have originated during the era of the Vikings and is best described as a blend of
bowling and horseshoes. Two teams compete to knock over their opponents’ wooden blocks by throwing batons.
3. Cornhole: Many people have played cornhole, which involves tossing bean bags at the cornhole board, The objective is to get the bag into the hole or on the board to score points. The game can be played as singles or doubles. The first team to reach 21 points wins.
4. Spikeball™: Also called Roundnet, this two-on-two sport is played by hitting a ball off a net with the goal of preventing the opposing team from returning the ball within three touches.
5. Ring toss: This is another game that tests hand-eye coordination. Players take turns tossing the rings onto the target pegs. Each peg is worth a different number of points. The first player to reach the agreed-upon
bash
amount of points wins.
6. Connect four in a row: Giant versions of familiar tabletop games also are available for yard use. With this game, players need to get four chips in a row, either up and down or diagonal.
7. Kan Jam®: Similar to cornhole or horseshoes, Kan Jam® features two teams of two that alternate between throwing a frisbee and trying to deflect it. The goal is to get the frisbee into the can.
8. Rollers: Goals are placed 25 feet apart and then players roll wooden discs to try to get closest to the goal. Each side of the disc has a different number to determine the point value.
Backyard events can be enhanced with some game play. There are plenty of fun options for your next gathering.
Advance sale tickets available now for Cattaraugus County Fair
See “Out & About” on page 5
‘Martha Memmott Corner’ added to children’s area at Little Valley library
BY DEB EVERTS
LITTLE VALLEY
— The Memorial Library of Little Valley officially opened its new children’s area Saturday, June 27, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony that was attended by about 40 participants. The “Martha Memmott Corner” is in memory of Martha Memmott, who passed away in August 2025. Library Director Linda McCubbin said the library is proud to be the recipient of a wonderful new attraction. She said the corner has been created for all children to enjoy with educational games, puzzles, a wooden train set, spiral magnets and even a track to run marbles on. Carol Gloff, founder of The Little Valley Fund, managed by the Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation, said the fund paid for the project. She said the idea for the new library feature was conceived by local residents Ashley and Connor Hellwig. Ashley serves on the library board of trustees, and Connor is a member of the
Little Valley Fund Advisory Committee.
“When Martha passed, (the advisory committee) felt it would be appropriate to do something in her memory in Little Valley,” she said. “Connor and Ashley came up with the idea, developed the list of items to purchase and set up the area in the library once the items arrived.”
Although Memmott’s primary residence was in Rochester, she grew up in Little Valley, maintained a home in the village and was very involved in the community. The library was among the organizations she supported.
A retired Rochester City School District special education teacher and active volunteer in both the Little Valley and Rochester communities, Memmott supported many charities, including the Special Olympics, the Little Valley Fund and the Memmott-Langhans Scholarship.
Gloff said Memmott was one of the first people to get involved in The Little Valley Fund, which started in 2019. She joined the advisory committee and staffed
WEST VALLEY — West Valley Central School honored its graduating Class of 2026 at commencement exercises held Friday, June 26. Annabelle Proseus delivered the valedictory address, reflecting on the shared journey of the class.
“Every challenge, every success, every mistake and every lesson has helped shape who you are today,” she told her classmates. “I am so proud of each and every one of you for making it this far, because I know just how far you are going to go.”
The class selected science teacher Joe Guagliardo as their commencement speaker — a choice that carried special meaning. Guagliardo was a first-year teacher at West Valley when the Class of 2026 first walked into his classroom, and he spent the years since watching them grow as students, athletes and young adults.
“You helped shape my experience at West Valley just as much as I hopefully helped shape yours,” he told the graduates. Guagliardo closed his address with a charge to students to carry their lessons forward: “Stay curious. Stay resilient. Work hard. Support one another. And never underestimate the impact you can have on the people around you.” Board of Education President George Kazmierzak
the Little Valley Fund table at the Village of Knives Celebration each year.
“We wanted to recognize Martha for her contributions, both financial and also her time, as well as her willingness to step up and help with the different projects of the Little Valley Fund,” she said.
Hellwig said the Little Valley Fund’s idea to honor Memmott combined two of her social memberships — The Little Valley Fund and the Friends of the Little Valley Library.
“Knowing Martha’s career as an elementary teacher and her passion for books, it only seemed fitting to propose the idea of a place for kids to go in a comfortable setting to learn, play and familiarize themselves with books,” he said. “I, on The Little Valley Fund, and my wife, Ashley, on the library board, put our brains together for how kids around our 4-year-
old daughter’s age would stay entertained at the library while learning along the way.”
Hellwig said Memmott was Little Valley through and through. Although her residence was in Rochester, she made a point to be a part of library bake sales, alumni events and Holiday Cheer, a Little Valley group that she was instrumental in starting.
“It was important to us to have a place to memorialize her,” he said. “Martha was a lively spirit whose legacy deserves a spot for that life to continue.”
Her youngest brother, Mark Memmott of Austin, Texas, who also serves on the advisory committee, said their parent’s story helps tell his sister’s story. Born Oct. 7, 1946, in Salamanca, she followed in the footsteps of her parents, Arthur and Sara Memmott.
“Dad was an LV native. He graduated from Little Valley
Central School in 1925 and, after college at Oberlin, came back to teach in LV. He became school principal just before WWII and remained in charge until retiring in 1969,” Mark Memmott said. “Our mom grew up in Waverly and came to LV in the mid-1930s to teach. That’s how she and Dad met.” Memmott said his sister followed their example, becoming a teacher after graduating from Buffalo State University in 1968, where she majored in special education. He said she taught elementary special education, which requires dedication and devotion to helping kids.
“After more than 30 years teaching, Martha retired, and that’s when some of her attention shifted to Little Valley,” he said. “She would be honored to have this corner of the library named for her. She would wholeheartedly support the idea
West Valley celebrates Class of 2026 at commencement
presented diplomas to the 12 graduates, along with Superintendent Dan Amodeo and Principal Rachel Mychajluk. With diplomas in hand, West Valley’s Class of 2026 concluded the ceremony by leading the audience in the school’s alma mater before heading out to celebrate with family and friends.
GRADUATES Payton N. Ehnes, Tucker J. Fleming, Jordan Lee Richard Hall, Olivia Jade Harmony, Karson Heitman,
David
Liliana Toms, Kaiden Michael Troutman and Dylan M. Tucker.
that Connor and Ashley had to create a space for children to read and play. She was a great reader — her homes were filled with paperbacks — and she loved children.”
Besides Mark, Memmott’s other siblings include Ed Memmott of Olean, Jim Memmott of Geneseo, Elizabeth Cowley of Baldwinsville and John Memmott of Oberlin, Ohio.
“Martha’s brothers and sister are honored to have her remembered this way,” Mark said. “We are very happy that she will be remembered in the village by her friends and, perhaps, be an inspiration to children there, now and in the future.”
“She is greatly missed and will always be remembered with happy memories,” McCubbin said. “We wish to thank the Little Valley Fund for their generous donation.”
AWARDS & SCHOLARSHIPS
Payton Ehnes –Salutatorian, WV Chamber of Commerce Community Service Award, Barb Nagel Memorial Award, NHS Scholastic Excellence Award, Anna Schroeder Memorial Award, State of NY Comptroller Award, Triple C Award, US Air Force Scholar/Athlete Award, Keith Young Memorial Award, Delmont K. Pfeffer Memorial Scholarship, WCA Scholarship. Tucker Fleming – Janda Hunt Memorial Award, WCA Scholarship. Jordan Hall – Irwin Ahrens Memorial Award, God and Country Award, Pete Scherer Memorial Award. Olivia Harmony –Theron Hotaling Memorial Award, John Philip Sousa Award.
Abbigail Pinkowski –Bette Aldrow Memorial Medical/Health Services Award, WCA Scholarship.
Annabelle Proseus –Valedictorian, Academic Excellence Award, Alumni Association Award, CCB Academic Scholarship, English Award, NHS Outstanding Member, State of NY Comptroller Award, Superintendent’s Award for Attendance, Triple C Award, US Air Force Math & Science Award, Jack Nuthall Memorial Scholarship, Delmont K. Pfeffer Memorial Scholarship, WVTA Scholarship. Derik Schoepflin –Douglas Ford Memorial Award. Liliana Toms – Academic Excellence Award, Louis Armstrong Award, Cattaraugus County Youth Citizenship Award, OAG Civic Ambassador Award, Outstanding Vo-Tech Student Award, State of NY Comptroller Award. Kaiden Troutman – Leo Bernhoft Memorial Award, Grover Riefler Memorial Award, Gilbert Snyder Memorial Award.
Photo provided
Martha’s oldest brother, Ed Memmott (third from right), had the honor of cutting the ribbon to officially open the “Martha Memmott Corner,” a children’s activity area named after his sister at the Memorial Library of Little Valley. Shown (from left): Terry Kelly, Pam Volz, Carol Gloff of The Little Valley Fund and Ryan West, along with Martha’s siblings, Elizabeth Cowley, Ed Memmott, Jim Memmott and Mark Memmott.
Cole
Holstein, Abbigail Pinkowski, Annabelle J. Proseus, Derik Zaje
Schoepflin,
Photo provided Martha Memmott
Photo courtesy West Valley Central School
of
takes the stage
BY DEB EVERTS
Randolph graduates 58 in Class of 2026
RANDOLPH — Fifty-eight members of the Randolph Central School Class of 2026 received their diplomas during commencement exercises Friday, June 26, at the high school auditorium.
The ceremony began with a warm welcome from High School Principal Jason Halpainy. Addressing the Class of 2026, he said being a good human never goes out of style.
“As long as you’re a decent person, everything will be fine,” he said. “I encourage you — hold the door for someone, take out your AirPods and have a genuine conversation. Remember people’s birthdays, be courteous, be kind, help someone before you help yourself and treat people with respect.”
Kaine Kelly, superintendent of the Randolph Central School District, praised the graduates and said he had complete faith in them — faith in their character, faith in their abilities and faith in their future.
“You are resilient, adaptable, compassionate and capable,” he said. “In a world that often celebrates individual achievement, this class has demonstrated the power of community.”
Salutatorian Cooper Freeman thanked the teachers and staff for being patient with them.
“Tonight is also about recognizing the people who helped us reach this moment. To our parents, families and guardians — thank you,” he said. “But, most importantly, tonight is about us, the Class of 2026.”
This year’s guest speaker was
Duncan Kirkwood, director of the Center for Resiliency at Villa Maria College in Cheektowaga. He compared the graduates’ future journey to using a GPS. “Live your life like a GPS,” he said. “You’re gonna’ have setbacks, challenges and roadblocks but, as long as you keep moving forward, the GPS will change the course to your destination. Just keep rerouting and moving forward, and eventually you’ll get there.”
Valedictorian Jenna Anderson addressed her classmates with wise advice. She said the most important lessons they learned in school never appeared on a report card.
“They (lessons) happened in hallways between classes, the senior center and during long conversations with friends,” she said. “Those experiences taught us how to handle disappointment, how to celebrate someone else’s success, how to work with people who are different from us, and how to build relationships that matter.”
GRADUATES
Jenna Anderson, Kamren Anderson, Shyann Arnold, Nicholas Ashdown, Grace Benson, Christine Booth, Gianna Bowles, Broden Brooks, Ryanne Bushey, Hannah Cass, Piper Chase-Hale, Carter Davis, Izaias Dowdy, Dallas Finch, Mason Finch, Jade Fleischmann, Hunter Foster, Cooper Freeman, Dallas Green, Mara Rae Harvey, Taylor Hayes, Riley Henry, Kevin Herington, Brookelyn Hubbard, Ireland Hubbard, Sterling James, Kirsten Johnson, Braden Jones, Rhys Kelly, Gavin Larson, Zachary Lindquist, Jaydyn Loomis, Allie Marsh-Durphy, Joseph Mighells,
Alton B. Inkley Memorial Scholarship – Gracyn Rowland, Jenna Anderson. American Red Cross Blood
Services HS Scholarship – Riley Henry, Nicholas Ashdown. Bourne Family Scholarship – Kristen Johnson, Gavin Richardson. Cattaraugus County Bank Community Service Award –Jaydyn Loomis. Chautauqua County Assoc. for Pupil Transportation – Erinn Sluga. Conewango Volunteer Fire Dept. Scholarship – Grace Benson, Reagan Smith. Congdon Award – Nicholas Ashdown, Grace Benson. Don & Mary Wishart Memorial Scholarship – Reagan Smith.
Jamestown Community College USA Scholarship – Rhys Kelly, Aryana Sears. John Edward McLaughlin Family Memorial Scholarship –Grace Benson, Ryanne Bushey, Kirsten Johnson, Allie MarshDurphy, Leah Olejniczak, Gavin Richardson, Gracyn Rowland, Aryana Sears, Dallas Finch. Kelley Jo MacLaughlin Memorial Scholarship – Gianna Bowles, Ryanne Bushey, Piper Chase-Hale, Dallas Finch, Cooper Freeman, Jaxon Morrison, Aryana Sears, Olivia Shawley, Ayden Shields, Mallory Smallback, Reagan Smith. Klubek/WOZ Ed. STEAM Scholarship – Allie MarshDurphy. Laurel Wishart DePietro Memorial Scholarship – Jaydyn Loomis. Martha Freeman-O’Brien Memorial Scholarship – Erinn Sluga. Michael Benca Jr. Golf Award – Jaxon Morrison, Cody Slade, Cooper Freeman, Mallory Smallback, Zachary Lindquist, Reagan Smith, Ayden Shields, Ryanne Bushey, Broden Brooks, Piper Chase-Hale. Milton R. Hork Scholarship –Kevin Herington. Norman C. Moon Memorial Scholarship – Piper Chase-Hale. Randolph American Legion Scholarship – Jenna Anderson. Randolph Lions Club Larry B. Sullivan Scholarship – Kevin Herington, Jaydyn Loomis. Randolph Lions Club Scholarship – Gracyn Rowland, Kirsten Johnson. Randolph Masonic Lodge #359 Scholarship – Cooper Freeman, Hayden Rosing, Ayden Shields, Mallory Smallback.
Razvan Tuduc Memorial Scholarship – Reagan Smith, Jaxon Morrison, Braden Jones. RCS Service Staff Association Scholarship – Grace Benson. RCS Teacher Association Scholarship – Mallory Smallback, Jaydyn Loomis. Robert & Peggy Paisley Memorial Scholarship – Grace Benson.
63 graduate from Cattaraugus-Little Valley
CATTARAUGUS — Cattaraugus-Little Valley Central School awarded 63 students with graduation diplomas during commencement exercises held Friday. Board of Education President Benjamin Stoll, Superintendent of Schools David Foster and High School Principal Tina Maines presented the diplomas. The program for the 26th commencement at CattaraugusLittle Valley included a welcome from Senior Class President Brice Corbin, Grady Merrill giving the valedictory address and Alexander Pietras delivering the salutatory address. Foster and Maines also issued congratulations.
GRADUATES Emmagiulia Barcellini, Emma M. Barnes, Emily Benson, Jordan I.R. BowersSeekins, Talon L. Bramer, Candice R. Brown, Caprice E. Bryant, Alana D. Butcher, Rebekah J. Butcher, Harmony R. Calkins, Brice E. Corbin, Allie M. Corcoan, Carly F. Crawford, Brecklan M. Dundas, Devyn A.P. Emmons, Audrey Eschborn, Heidi L. Fiegl, Carter J. Frentz, Bransen D. Gabel, Dominic Gradler, Ruby R. Guerin, Patrick D. Hesse, Mckenna D. Hickin, Bryson H. Hill, Jesse J. Horrigan, Andrew D. Howard, Quinn A. Janora, Levi Jaskier, Hunter L. Kehr, Lillian M. Kenyon, Gabriel J. Lee, Michael A. Lee, Caitlyn M. Lewis, Damaris K. Lillie, Johannah M. Luce, Sean F. Manganiello, Grady A. Merrill, Jack Morgenstern, Adam A. Namenek, Chase W. Nephew, Caleb D. Orth, Devan M. Otto, Brooklynn S. Palmeri, Alexander S. Pietras, Derek C. Pritchard, Brianna L. Scott, Silja Skjellestad, Dannielle Snyder, Presley Joy Soderlund, Evan M. Spink, Dylan C. Swanson, Noah J. Ulinger, Kylie A. Unruh, Wyatt Visnesky, Allison-Blair Weshaupt, Cole D. Weishaupt, Dylan Wentz, Emma M. Williams, Izabella S. Williams, Mona-Katrice A. Williams, Carson H. Windsor, Donald Wright Jr. and Owen M. Wright.
AWARDS &
SCHOLARSHIPS Excellence in Chemistry Award – Cyrus Priest. Cattaraugus County Bank Commercial Award – Emma Williams. Jarod Scott Simcick Memorial Award – Mona Williams. Leo Minner Memorial Scholarship – Brice Corbin, Allison-Blair Weishaupt. 2nd Annual Science Scholarship – Grady Merrill, Devan Otto, Bransen Gabel, Allison-Blair Weishaupt, Izabella Williams, Quinn Janora. 3rd Annual Roselle Memorial CA BOCES Scholarship – Michael Lee, Dylan Wentz, Wyatt Visnesky, Patrick Hesse, Chase Nephew, Lillian Kenyon, Allie Corcoran, Ruby Guerin, Devyn Emmons, Carson Winsor, Derek Pritchard, Dylan Swanson, Caleb Orth, Izabella Williams, Emma Barnes, Dominic Gradler. 8th Annual Roselle Memorial Educational Scholarship – Kylie Unruh, Alexander Pietras, Quinn Janora, Lillian Kenyon. 8th Annual Sandra Roselle Nedell Memorial Business Scholarship – Talon Bramer, Owen Wright. Tim Lexer Memorial Scholarship – Grady Merrill, Johannah Luce. The Art Snow Memorial Scholarship – Danielle Snyder. The Average John Scholarship – Bryson Hill. Aiden Szata Memorial Scholarship – Mona Williams. Aiden Szata Memorial Scholarship – Levi Jaskier. The Math Award – Andrew Howard. The Extra Math Award & Honorable Mention – Bransen Gabel - 6, Grady Merrill - 6; honorable mention to Johannah Luce, Damaris Lillie and Alex Pietras for each completing 5 courses. John Philip Sousa Award Music Award – Alexander Pietras. National School Choral Music Award – Bekah Butcher. National Honor Society “Distinguished Service Award” –Johannah Luce.
National Honor Society “Scholastic Excellence Award” –Alex Pietras. 2026 Outstanding Honor Society Member – Grady Merrill. Syracuse University Project Advance – Rebekah Butcher, Allie Corcoran, Nolan Emborsky, Asher Fisher, Bransen Gabel, Ruby Guerin, Miranda Hines, Aiden Kapsiak, Dylan Kelwaski, Tayla Kuhaneck, Jasmine Laskey, Gabriel Lee, Damaris Lillie, Johannah Luce, Grady Merrill, Virgil Moore, Devan Otto, Alexander Pietras, Elliott Pagett, Brady Preston, Carly Preston, Dannielle Snyder, Jaelyn Snyder, Andrew Tate, Blayk Taylor, Emma West, Quincey Whitmore.
2025 Alumni (CattaraugusLittle Valley) Memorial Award – Mona Williams, Izabella Williams, Emma Barnes, Lillian Kenyon, Hunter Kehr. Adam Filock Excellence in Character Scholarship – Rebekah Butcher. Air Force Math and Science – Alexander Pietras, Johannah Luce. Air Force Scholar Athlete –Grady Merrill and Kylie Unruh. American Legion Auxiliary
Unit #531 Memorial Award –Quinn Janora. American Legion Post #531 Citizenship Award – Brianna Scott. Art Award – Levi Jaskier. Babcock Awards – Grady Merrill, Alexander Pietras. Barbara J. Campbell Scholarship – Emma Barnes, Brianna Scott. Barnes and Noble Award –Andrew Howard. Big 30 Academic Scholarship – Grady Merrill. BOE Student Representative – Allison-Blair Weishaupt. Cattaraugus Central School Alumni Assoc. Award –Johannah Luce, Bransen Gabel, Bryson Hill. CLV Foreign Language Award – Alexander Pietras. CLVCS Bus Drivers Citizenship Award – Brecklan Dundas, Presley Soderlund, Emmagiulia Barcellini. CLVCS Faculty/Staff Sweatshirt Scholarship –Harmony Calkins, Caitlyn Lewis, Donnie Wright. Teacher’s Association Award – Ruby Guerin, Lillian Kenyon. Dale “Russ” Berg Award –Dominic Gradler.
Dr. Bruce F. Baisch Scholarship Award – Grady Merrill. Edith P. Connelly Memorial Award – Emma Williams. Enlisted students – Emma Williams, United States Navy. Erhart Memorial Award –Izabella Williams. Eric Peters Memorial Scholarship (CCCF) – Grady Merrill. Gordon L. Aimes Memorial Music Award – Alex Pietras. Hal Lyons Memorial Award –Jack Morgenstern. Heide Moody Fischer Memorial Award – Allie Corcoran. Henrietta Macduffie Manley Award – Grady Merrill, Alexander Pietras. James M. Farmer Memorial Award – Danielle Snyder. James R. Agnew Memorial Science Award – Grady Merrill. JCC Scholar of Excellence Top 20% – Caitlyn Lewis. JCC Jamestown Community College “College Connection Student of the Year Award” –Johannah Luce. Jody Huff Memorial Award –Cole Weishaupt. John J. Murphy Family
Photo by Deb Everts
Central School held its 2026 commencement
Friday, June 26, in the high school auditorium.
(left) and Salutatorian
Photo courtesy Cattaraugus-Little Valley Central School
The Class of 2026 celebrates at the end of Cattaraugus-Little Valley Central School’s 26th commencement ceremony Friday, June 26.
BY KELLEN M. QUIGLEY
—
LITTLE VALLEY
Advance-sale tickets for the 183rd Cattaraugus County Fair are on sale now at outlets across the county and beyond.
The county fair is scheduled for Aug. 1-8 with two country music grandstand performances — Dylan Scott with opening act Highway Home will perform at Tuesday night’s concert, while Sammy Kershaw and opener John Foster are Wednesday night’s performers.
Advance-sale pay-oneprice tickets are $14 each for those 2 and older — $3 less than gate admission from Aug. 1 on, which goes to $17. Admission includes unlimited Amusements of America midway rides and the Sunday night grandstand show of the Black Cat Hell Drivers.
Gates open daily at 8
a.m., with the midway open at 1 p.m. Animals are in place on Saturday preceding the fair. Vendors are typically open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., depending on the crowd. Advance sale gate admission tickets are available at the fair office, 501 Erie St., Little Valley; online at www.cattarauguscofair. com; at all Cattaraugus County Bank locations in Springville, Dunkirk, Little Valley, Randolph, Jamestown, Salamanca and Randolph; the South Dayton Super Duper; HighPoint Credit Union locations in Little Valley, Allegany, Portville and Bradford, Pa.; Community Bank, N.A. locations in Olean, Salamanca, Allegany, Gowanda and Orchard Park; and online at etix.com. Advanced tickets are available through the end of the day Friday, July 31. County fair officials stress that tickets will be required
for all paid grandstand shows. This should be advantageous to all fair patrons. Visitors who prefer a particular grandstand section or seat or who do not want to wait in line can visit etix.com and reserve seats by following the prompts. Tickets can then be printed or shown at the gate on a cell phone. Tickets will also be available for purchase on the day of the show, pending availability. Grandstand events include:
• Saturday, Aug. 1 –Demotion Derby.
• Sunday, Aug. 2 – Black Cat Hell Drivers.
• Monday, Aug. 3 –Demolition Derby.
• Tuesday, Aug. 4 – Dylan Scott concert with opening act Highway Home.
• Wednesday, Aug. 5 –Sammy Kershaw concert with John Foster.
• Thursday, Aug. 6 – CS Promotion Truck and Tractor Pull.
• Friday, Aug. 7 – Monster Truck Rally.
• Saturday, Aug. 8 –Monster Truck Rally and CS Promotions Truck & Tractor Pull. There are also several performances on the grounds, which are free with gate admission. They include:
• Lindy Wormwood One-Woman Show – From daring stunts on the tightrope to dazzling feats of precision whip cracking,
Advance sale tickets available now for Cattaraugus County Fair
her unforgettable shows have a nostalgic twist: blending old-world vaudeville charm with comedy, audienceengagement, mind-bending skill and contemporary storytelling. Aug. 1-4 only.
• Checkers the Inventor – A nationally recognized children’s performer known for his high-energy live shows, inventive stage props and original characters. Checkers combines comedy, magic, physical stunts and interactive
games into fast-paced, crowdpleasing shows. Aug. 6-8 only.
• The Cortes Flying Trapeze Spectacular –Originally from Colombia, brothers Robinson and Alexander Cortes lead the troupe that has performed around the world. They perform a variety of classic flying maneuvers over 30 feet in the air on the only trapeze structure of its kind.
• Magician Lance Gifford – The award-winning Gifford has amazed crowds across the United States for more than 30 years.
• Swifty Swine Racing –This group of pigs travel across the country and race not for the money but the Oreo cookie waiting on a silver platter at the finish line.
• Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show – Performing around the world for over 33 years, lumberjack events presented include log rolling, underhand chopping, springboard chopping, standing block chop, crosscut sawing, axe throwing and dragster chainsaw competition.
• Areli Equine Entertainment – Bringing a blend of traditional and contemporary riding techniques to the ring, fairgoers can look forward to western tricks, roman riding and rosin back riding as riders perform daring stunts atop bareback horses.
• Black Cat Hell Drivers –Auto thrill and stunt show that features high-speed reverse spins, ramp-to-ramp car jumps, precision two-wheel driving, controlled rollovers and cars bursting into flames, all in 70 minutes.
More information can be found online at cattarauguscofair.com or by calling (716) 938-9146.
File photo
The 183rd annual Cattaraugus County Fair is set for Aug. 1-8 at the fairgrounds in Little Valley.
Signs suggesting doors and windows need air sealing
When pondering projects around a house, it’s easy to overlook small tasks and direct your focus toward more significant undertakings. Small projects might not generate the reactions that larger projects do, but even the simplest tasks can go a long way toward making a home more comfortable.
cost savings, particularly in an era marked by rising utility costs.
insects may be another indicator that there are gaps around windows or doors.
enabling them to access the interior of your home.
then leaks around these areas may be the culprit.
Sealing leaks around windows and doors is unlikely to make any homeowner’s list of dream projects. However, as the moderate temperatures of fall give way to harsh winter weather, homeowners who seal leaks around their doors and windows may be surprised by how effective this simple project can be at reducing energy costs and making a home more comfortable. In fact, the U.S. Department of Energy notes that sealing inefficient windows and doors can reduce annual utility bills by 7 to 15 percent. That’s a potentially significant
Before homeowners seal their windows and doors, they can first look for signs that these areas are allowing outdoor air in. The United States Environmental Protection Agency notes there are some obvious signs that a home has leaks around the windows and doors. Those signs include:
• Drafts: If you place your hand around closed windows or doors but can still feel drafts, then there are leaks that will need to be sealed.
• Gaps: Gaps around windows and doors that are letting outdoor air in typically are noticeable to the naked eye. You might see light coming in through small cracks on a sunny day. These gaps may only be in one or two places, but that’s enough to adversely affect energy bills.
• Unwelcome guests: Pests or
If you consistently see insects near a particular entryway or window, or signs of pests near doorways, that’s likely because there’s a gap or hole in these areas that’s
• Odors: It’s not only your sense of vision that might detect leaks, but also your sense of smell. If you notice exterior odors inside your home even though doors and windows are closed,
• Peeling paint or wallpaper: Peeling paint or wallpaper is another potential indicator of a leak around a door or window. This can occur when water is entering the home through the leak. Over time, wet paint or wallpaper dries and can begin to peel. This is a potentially significant issue because it can lead to mold infestation and even structural damage to a home.
The EPA characterizes sealing
behind windows and doors as a moderate to difficult project. If leaks are detected, homeowners can benefit from hiring a professional to do the job quickly and correctly.
Leaks around windows and doors can prove costly if they’re not addressed promptly. As winter approaches, investigating for leaks and addressing any that are found can save money and ensure a home stays comfortable when the temperatures drop.
