Olean Star

The Olean Common Council will meet in a special session Tuesday night to try to pass Mayor Amy B. Sherburne’s proposed $21.3 million budget for 2026-27. 

Last Tuesday, the council refused to support the mayor’s budget due to its 8.85% property tax hike — a $1.63 hike to $19.38 per $1,000 assessed value.

After last week’s budget meeting, the mayor and council agreed to delay the budget vote until Tuesday (April 21), allowing time to make additional adjustments. The city charter calls for the budget to be adopted by April 15.

The council’s Finance Committee is scheduled to meet at 6  p.m. Tuesday to pass the mayor’s freshman budget. The council will meet in a special session following the Finance Committee vote on the budget and proposed sewer and water rate hikes.

There had already been adjustments to the budget, which originally came in at $23.2 million with a tax rate increase of 18.69%. With $5.2 million for sewers and $4.7 million for water, the total budget is $32.3 million. There are proposed increases in the city sewer and water rates.

The initial proposed tax levy — or amount to be raised by property taxes — was just over $10 million. That has been reduced to around $9.2 million.

The city’s website shows the budget with a 9.15% rate hike.

In a statement to the Olean Star on Sunday, the mayor said is hopeful she and the council can “work through any remaining questions together” at the work session. “I’m open to discussing ideas and feedback as part of that conversation.”

Sherburn said, “At the same time, this budget has been built around the core services required to operate our city effectively. Many of the largest cost drivers, such as contractual obligations and employee health insurance, are not discretionary.” 

Most city employees will receive a 3% increase in the 2026-27 budget. Police and fire contracts are being negotiated this year.

The mayor said, “This budget proposal of 8.85% reflects current conditions. Rising costs are affecting every area, and those pressures are reflected in the numbers before us. The goal has been to present a responsible and realistic budget based on what we know today. 

“As we near the end of the current fiscal year, it’s also clear that last year’s budget did not fully absorb increases in areas like utilities and health insurance. Some adjustments made during that process last year have contributed to the challenges we’re now managing.

“I look forward to a responsible conclusion for this budget by the Council that supports both our immediate needs and long-term stability for the City of Olean taxpayers,” Sherburne said.

Last week, Council President Vernon Robinson Jr., I-Ward 6, said the council thought the 8.85% increase was still too much — even though it was down by half from the original tax rate proposed by the mayor.

He said that without new revenue, he might have proposed reductions in the work force to bring down the tax rate. Robinson said a tax hike of 6% or less would be better for city residents. 

The budget eliminates funding for the sewer and water superintendent and budgeted for a new civil engineer. The council first voted to restore funding for the sewer and water superintendent, which the mayor vetoed. The council voted again last week, but failed to restore the funding.

The council urged the mayor to reconsider sewer and water rate increases — particularly with a $3.3 million fund balance in the Sewer Department.

Finance Committee Chairwoman Sonya McCall, D-Ward 4, said last week the council was not prepared to support a tax rate increase of 8.85%.

For Tuesday’s regular meeting at 6 p.m. in the council chambers, new water and sewer rates are being proposed by sponsors Robinsons and McCall.

The new residential water rate is proposed to be .011776 dollars per gallon and the new sewer rate is proposed to be .01084 dollars per gallon. There is a 1,600 gallon minimum.

The commercial rates are proposed at .011776 dollars per gallon for water and .01138 dollars per gallon for sewer. There is a 2,600 gallon minimum charge.

The proposed industrial rates are .010599 dollars per gallon for water up to 250,000 gallons, .010010 dollars for the next 250,000 gallons and .00942 for usage above that. Proposed sewer charges are .00888 dollars per gallon.

batesoleanstar@gmail.com

ST. BONAVENTURE — It seems as though there might be some magic woven into the renovations at Fred Handler park.

Since St. Bonaventure returned to its newly upgraded facility (March 31), it has gone 7-1 at home. The most recent of those wins, a 5-4 victory over defending Atlantic 10 champions Rhode Island, gave the Bonnies their first series sweep of the season.

“Yeah, 7-1 at home, we feel really good about playing at home. We’ve had a lot of good luck here,” Bona head coach Jason Rathbun said. “We’ve played some close games, got some big hits. It’s just different. It’s different when you’re not in hotels and traveling in buses, and you’re sleeping in your own bed. You get used to your own routines and it’s big for us. I think getting a sweep like this against the defending champs from last year says a lot about where we want to be and where we’re headed.”

The Bona pitching staff certainly had its moments in the sweep-clinching game. Notably, both starting pitcher Tristan Ciampa and closer Joey Calabretti worked their way out of a bases-loaded jam with one out on the board. For Ciampa, it preserved the narrow 3-2 lead the hosts had built through 3.5 frames. For Calabretti, it put the tally in the win column.

It was a second save in as many appearances on the bump for Calabretti, whose mentality was praised by Rathbun.

“Joey Calabretti’s a pretty mentally tough kid, he’s a competitor,” Rathbun said. “I came to the field today and just asked him how he was feeling. I was asking more in the sense of, ‘are you OK to play left field?’ ‘Are you OK to hit?’ And he was like, ‘I got an inning today if we need it.’ And I was like, ‘that’s not really what I was asking you, but that’s good to know.’ Then, when the game got tight a little late, … he came out and got the job done.”

Both the Bonnies and Rams connected for a significant amount of hits on the day, and frankly not much less would have been expected considering how the entire series transpired. Over the course of the three games — two of which were played in a double header on April 17 — the sides combined for 61 hits and 11 home runs.

“The message with the guys has been to swing the bat harder,” Rathbun said. “I think that we’ve been a little too indecisive with check swings, not letting our hands go and being free. … If the pitch comes in and you’re fooled by it, just swing through it, get a good swing off instead of these check swings, balls bounced in the infield, we’re not driving the baseball as much. I think we did a good job. It was a good hitting day yesterday, too, with the wind. The weather was good for bats yesterday, so we were able to capitalize on a good hitting day.”

St. Bonaventure’s Anthony Fernandez (27) connects on a pitch against Rhode Island. Fernandez went 2-for-4 with two RBI and a home run in the Bonnies win over the Rams. (Spencer Bates)

The source of two of Bona’s nine hits in the series finale was Conner Vercollone, who had just three hits in all of April leading up to the game. For Rathbun, it was special to see an experienced player such as him double up on the day.

“He just hasn’t had the same success he had last year, but you still have that confidence in that kid,” Rathbun said. “He’s played a lot of innings here, playing a lot of games for us. So we kind of know what we’ve got with Connor. 
You can’t just ride the hot waves, you’ve got to ride the cold ones too. He’s got a lot of experience, he doesn’t hurt us defensively, he does a good job, and he just battles. He’s a great kid. We’re happy he was able to get a couple hits today.”

There is an air of familiarity around Bona’s recent run of form.

Rathbun noted that last year has been similar to this year in that his team spent a lot of time away from home early in the schedule, which made finding a routine difficult. But now that they are having some stretches of games at home, he has seen a bit of a rhythm develop. He hopes that this season, they can get some momentum going soon enough to perhaps find a way into the A10 tournament.

“We’ve kind of done this before, we did it last year too, where we’re on the road a lot early, and we’re fighting and clawing, and then we get a run at home,” Rathbun said.
”It’s probably a big reason why we won seven of our last nine in the conference last year, because we had a good run at home. Hopefully, we can kind of do the same thing this year. It seems like we are. We got a big one next week, Dayton’s right ahead of us. … So, we’re still in this. We gotta go out and win the series that we’re supposed to win down the stretch, (and if we) get a little help here and there, I can see us maybe finding the back door into this tournament.”

St. Bonaventure will head north to face Niagara on April 21 for a mid-week fixture before hosting Dayton for its next A10 series.

O-E earned a 3-0 lead in the first inning following a Shane Magee solo homer and Wyatt Blendinger notching a two-RBI single. Through four frames, the Terrors appeared to have the game in hand with a 9-3 advantage. 

In the seventh, Camryn Young recorded a double that brought three across the plate. Konnor Davis came to bat once the Hubbers were down 9-8. His two RBI single gave Smethport their first and only lead of the game 10-9, completing the last inning seven-run comeback. 

AT DUKE CENTER

Smethport 020 100 7 R:10 H:9 E:3

Otto-Eldred 321 300 0 R:9 H:8 E:2

Smethport: Hungiville (5 SO, 5 BB), Riekofsky (9 SO, 7 BB) Catcher: Young

Otto-Eldred: Schenfield (6 SO, 4 BB), VanCamp (0 SO, 4 BB), Sheeler (0 SO, 3 BB) Catcher: Splain

Port Allegany 18, Oswayo Valley 4

SHINGLEHOUSE, PA – Kellen Veilleux powered Port Allegany to a lopsided win over Oswayo Valley.

Veilleux had a perfect day at the plate, going 5-for-5 with five RBI and four runs.

Garrin Wright (3-for-4, 2 RBI, run) and Nick Wilfong (2-for-5, 2 runs) each had multi-hit days for the Gators as well.

AT SHINGLEHOUSES

Port Allegany 208 012 5 R:18 H:X15 E:2

Oswayo Valley 200 200 0 R:4 H:8 E:3

Port Allegany: Wilfong (9 SO, 3 BB), Wright (0 SO, 0 BB) and Boyd

Oswayo Valley: Karr (4 SO, 3 BB), McCleaft (4 SO, 1 BB), Worthington (0 SO, 2 BB), Karver (0 SO, 1 BB) and Bachand

HS SOFTBALL

Port Allegany 20, Oswayo Valley 2 (3 innings)

SHINGLEHOUSE, PA – With 11 runs in the first inning and nine in the second, Port Allegany scored a three-inning win on the road at Oswayo Valley.

Kendra Ayers led the Gators, going 3-for-4 with three runs and RBI. Brynn Evens (2-for-2, 3 runs, 4 RBI), Madison Errick (2-for-2, 3 runs, 4 RBI, 2 BB) and Jaidyn Mahon (2-for-3, run, 4 RBI) all had a major impact in the victory as well. 

AT SHINGLEHOUSE

Port Allegany (11)90 XXX X R:20 H:12 E:1

Oswayo Valley 200 XXX X R:2 H:4 E:2

Port Allegany: Wilcox (5 SO, 0 BB) and Errick

Oswayo Valley: Grovanz (1 SO, 7 BB), Bloom (1 SO, 4 BB) and Bloom

Portville 8, Frewsburg 0

PORTVILLE, NY – After three scoreless frames to start the game, Portville brought seven runs in the fourth inning en route to a shutout victory over Frewsburg.

Sienna Schoonover led the Panthers, going 2-for-3 with a run and three RBI. Ella Warters also had a multi-hit game while striking out 13 from inside the circle. Kylie Mendl and Madison Ford each tallied two RBI.

AT PORTVILLE

Frewsburg 000 000 0 R:0 H:2 E:4

Portville 000 071 X R:8 H:8 E:1

Frewsburg: Hyldahl (3 SO, 1 BB) and Reale

Portville: Warters (13 SO, 1 BB) and Zeigler

Otto-Eldred 9, Smethport 2

DUKE CENTER, PA – Taking advantage of 10 walks and eight errors, Otto-Eldred grabbed a comfortable victory over Smethport.

Baylee Francis filled the stat sheet for the Terrors, going 2-for-2, with three runs, three RBI and two walks. She also struck out 13 batters on the night, the third of which being her 100th career strikeout.

Kenyan Kellogg had two hits in the win as well.

Jasmine Miller led Smethport with two hits.

AT DUKE CENTER

Smethport 010 100 0 R:2 H:3 E:8

Otto-Eldred 204 012 X R:9 H:4 E:4

Smethport: Miller (4 SO, 10 BB) and Tronetti

Otto-Eldred: Francis (14 SO, 3 BB) and Rounsville

Fredonia 12, Salamanca 1

SALAMANCA, NY – The Fredonia offense was hot from the start, putting Salamanca behind 8-1 after three frames.

Five defensive errors from the Warriors only aided the visitors.

Delaney Haley, Addison Earley, Charli Ross and Ella Martens each picked up a hit in the loss.

AT SALAMANCA

Fredonia 305 001 3 R:12 H:9 E:1

Salamanca 100 000 0 R:1 H:4 E:5

Fredonia: Delcamp (10 SO, 2 BB)

Salamanca: Ross (5 SO, 2 BB), Haley (0 SO, 1 BB)

Allegany-Limestone 28, Jamestown 1

ALLEGANY, NY – The Allegany-Limestone Gators routed the Jamestown Red and Green 28-1.

Jamestown got on the board first; however, in the bottom of the first, the Gators scored nine runs on three hits, with two runs coming from a Jamestown error. The Gators continued to pull away, outscoring Jamestown 18-0 in the final three frames. Seven Gators had a multiple-RBI game.

AT ALLEGANY

Jamestown 100 00X X R:1 H:4 E:8

Allegany-Limestone 91(12) 6XX X R:28 H:12 E:0

Jamestown: Maggio (1 SO, 16 BB) and Potter

Allegany-Limestone: Ka. Truman (5 SO, 2 BB), Ke. Truman (2 SO, 1 BB) and P. Truman

Olean 8, Southwestern 3

JAMESTOWN, NY – Tiana Maine’s full game and 13 strikeouts led the way for Olean in an 8-3 victory over Southwestern.

The Huskies jumped out to a 4-0 lead after a Trojan error, Alyx Henzel’s walk, and an Allison Anastasia two-RBI base hit. Olean added two more runs in the fifth and sixth innings, respectively. Anastasia finished the night with two RBIs while three other Huskies recorded an RBI.

AT JAMESTOWN

Olean 040 022 0 R:8 H:5 E:5

Southwestern 000 020 1 R:3 H:3 E:3

Olean: Maine (13 SO, 8 BB) and Bates

Southwestern: Burnett (9 SO, 5 BB) and Carlson

GOLF

Olean 34.5, Allegany-Limestone 21.5

Olean 35.5, Franklinville 19.5

ALLEGANY, NY – The Olean boys golf team defeated both Allegany-Limestone and Franklinville to move to 3-0 on the season.

Cam Bartman had the low round for the Huskies, recording a 41.

A-L’s Collin Kahm was the medalist on the day, shooting a low round of 39.

COLLEGE BASEBALL

St. Bonaventure 7, Rhode Island 4 (Game 1)

St. Bonaventure 15, Rhode Island 13 (Game 2)

ST. BONAVENTURE, NY – Taking both games of a double-header against Rhode Island, the Bonnies solidified their second Atlantic 10 series win of the season.

Alex Hebenstreit led Bona in the first game of the day, going 2-for-4 with a three-run home run. Joey Calabretti and Antonio Cordeiro also left the yard in the game, with Calabretti bringing across two with his blast.

Game Two was a high-scoring affair with the Bonnies just about holding on after taking a one-run lead in the bottom of the seventh.

Calabretti hit yet another home run off the Rams in the second game, this time a grand slam. Anthony Fernandez got in on the action with a homer as well.

Calabretti filled the stat sheet for the Bonnies, going 3-for-5 with two runs and five RBI

BOYS LACROSSE

Salamanca 11, Gowanda 8

SALAMANCA, NY – The Salamanca boys lacrosse team picked up its fifth consecutive win, much in part thanks to its defense which held Gowanda to just three goals in the opening half.

The event will be held at Woodside Tavern on the Range, 3319 W. River Road, from 5 to 7 p.m. The evening will feature a buffet dinner followed by the awards presentation, along with a cash bar.

This year’s honorees are Harvest Field Ministries, the Olean Food Pantry, and The Warming House, organizations that collectively represent decades of service addressing food insecurity and other critical needs throughout the Olean area.

Founded in 1974, The Warming House is one of the nation’s oldest student-run soup kitchens. Originally established as a drop-in center offering companionship and support to isolated adults, the organization expanded in the early 1980s to provide daily meals. Over the years, it has grown into a vital resource for individuals experiencing homelessness, poverty, and food insecurity.

The Warming House provides not only nourishment but also fellowship and dignity to those it serves. Volunteers, students, and community members work together to create a welcoming environment where individuals can gather, share meals, and find connection.

Demand for services has increased significantly in recent years. In 2023, The Warming House served more than 23,000 meals, representing a 300 percent increase compared to five years earlier, highlighting both rising community needs and the organization’s expanding impact.

Tickets for the Service Above Self Awards Dinner are $45 per person or $85 per couple. Tickets may be purchased at the door, by mail to P.O. Box 121, Olean, NY, or reserved online through the Rotary Club’s website. Reservations are requested by May 1.

Past recipients of the Service Above Self Award include Meme Yanetsko; the Olean Area Service Club organizations including the Exchange Club, Lions Club, and Zonta; the Allegany American Legion Ritual Team; the Crandall family; Dan Evans; Linda O’Brien and Dan Spring; the Enchanted Mountain Garden Club of Allegany and the Olean Gardens and Beautification Committee; and the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany.

The Olean Rotary Club is a service organization composed of local professionals dedicated to improving quality of life both locally and internationally through service initiatives and community partnerships.

The district was one of just five school systems across the country to receive this recognition for its work to improve indoor air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

District representatives were formally recognized at the NSBA Annual Conference and Exposition, held April 10–12, in San Antonio, Texas. The Magna Awards, sponsored by American School Board Journal, have a long-standing tradition of celebrating innovative and exemplary school district programs nationwide.

The 2026 awards specifically highlight districts that implemented new indoor air quality management plans and demonstrated measurable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

Salamanca City Central School District’s approach integrates indoor air quality improvements with

energy efficiency initiatives, ensuring that school facilities remain healthy, resilient, and well maintained for generations to come. 

“At Salamanca City Central School District, we are proud to receive the Silver Magna Award. The health, safety, and well-being of our students, staff, and community are at the heart of every decision we make,” said Superintendent

Mark Beehler. “This award is a testament to our hard work and our continued dedication to providing clean indoor air in our schools.”

Located on the Allegany Territory of the Seneca Nation, the district embraces the principle of planning for the next seven generations — an approach rooted in stewardship and respect for future communities. 

District leaders emphasize that improving indoor air quality is essential to student success, as clean and healthy learning environments contribute to better attendance, academic performance and overall wellness.

Salamanca and the other Magna Award winners were also featured in the April issue of American School Board Journal, published online on March 31, 2026.

As the district continues its work, leaders remain focused on their vision of becoming the premier educational system in Western New York — building a

healthier, stronger, and more sustainable future for all students and the community.

Olean Star

MACHIAS — A second tornado in just over two weeks touched down in the same area of the town of Machias Wednesday night, the National Weather Service confirmed Thursday. There were no injuries.

The EF-0 tornado touched down with 75 mph winds on Tug Hill Road near Gulf Road, 3 miles south southwest of Lime Lake, according to meteorologists who visited the area the next morning.

Damage from the winds was observed along a path 0.17 miles long and 55 yards wide. The tornado touched down at 8:13 p.m. and was on the ground for about a minute.

There was minor damage to two homes when the tornado passed between them. Several trees were uprooted in multiple directions around one home. 

At least one tree rested on the roof of one of the homes. A window on an upper floor was blown out by the winds.

An EF-1 tornado with winds of 107 mph touched down at 3:43 p.m. about two miles southwest of Machias on March 31. 

The tornado followed a 1.5 mile-long path about 150 yards wide. Damage was minimal and no injuries were reported.

The Gators officially moved to 5-0 on the year, but did not get there without a scare, as Cameron County threatened to play the spoiler by shaving what was a six-run lead to just one with five runs in the bottom of the fifth.

Two scoreless frames after the late eruption from the hosts closed out the victory.

Liam Hawver and Kellen Veilleux both went 2-for-4 at the plate to lead Port Allegany. Hawver tallied two RBI as well.

Iziah Pertuzzi and Gavin Moses each had two RBI on the night as well.

AT EMPORIUM

Port Allegany 201 040 0 R:7 H:9 E:3

Cameron County 100 050 0 R:6 H:4 E:0

Port Allegany: Pertuzzi (7 SO, 1 BB), Boyd (6 SO, 2 BB) and Boyd

Cameron County: Pearsall (7 SO, 3 BB), Pearson (0 SO, 0 BB) and Trumpie

Brookville 12, Bradford 4

BROOKVILLE, PA – Brookville did all the damage it needed to do early on to hand Bradford a lopsided defeat.

The Owls conceded all 12 runs against them over the course of the first three innings. Five runs came across in the first and third for the hosts.

Brody Haviland (3-for-3, run) and Max Gow (2-for-4, run) led the Owls.

AT BROOKVILLE

Bradford 011 200 0 R:4 H:8 E:4

Brookville 525 000 X R:12 H:11 E:4

Bradford: Reese (0 SO, 1 BB), Bell (3 SO, 2 BB) and Gow

Brookville: Kalgren (6 SO, 2 BB), Marrara (4 SO, 0 BB) and Marrara

Northern Potter 11, Otto-Eldred 10

ULYSSES, PA – After conceding five runs in the bottom of the seventh inning, Otto-Eldred suffered a walk-off defeat to Northern Potter.

The Terrors held an 8-2 lead going into the bottom of the fifth inning. But from that point on, they were out-scored 9-2, flipping the script in the blink of an eye.

Macaibe Splain (2 runs), Ryan Schenfield (2 runs) and Wyatt Blendinger (3 runs) each went 2-for-4 at the plate for O-E.

AT ULYSSES

Otto-Eldred 305 001 1 R:10 H:7 E:2

Northern Potter 002 031 5 R:11 H:8 E:7

Otto-Eldred: Sherry (7 SO, 7 BB), Collins (3 SO, 5 BB), Schenfield (0 SO, 3 BB) and Splain

Northern Potter: Snyder (8 SO, 3 BB), Nicholas (8 SO, 2 BB) and Houghtaling

Evan Anderson

Kane Area High School 

Height: 6’2″ – Weight: 220 lbs. 

Offense: RB – Defense: S

Evan wants to join the Electrical Union after graduation. He lists his honors as Region 3 All Star, and Kane Defensive Player of the Year 2024. He wants to play in the Big 30 game to be able to play football one last time. Evan’s best memory while playing football was hanging with the team and making new friends. His hobbies are fishing and working out. His favorite football team is the Las Vegas Raiders and his favorite player is Bo Jackson.

Thomas Shrubb

Kane Area High School 

Height:5’9″ – Weight: 170 lbs. 

Offense: C – Defense: LB

Thomas plans to attend Slippery Rock University and major in Exercise Science. He wants to then go on to get his Doctorate in PT or go to Palmer Chiropractic College and get a Doctorate in Chiropractic Medicine. He lists his honors as Honorable Mention in District 9 Region 3, Historian of NHS, 4.21 GPA, and Football and Track Letter winner. Thomas wants to play in the Big 30 game because he loves football, and this will give him a chance to play one more game. He is excited to represent his town and his family in this football game. Thomas’s best memory was on 9-5-25 in Ridgway endzone. The ball was snapped and he came through to block the punt, which allowed his team to eventually win the game. Thomas’s hobbies are lifting, throwing shot put, playing video games, hanging out with friends and family, and playing football. His favorite football team is the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Clayton Kiser

Smethport Area Jr.-Sr. High School 

Height: 5’11” – Weight: 205 lbs.

Offense: TE/FB – Defense: DE/ML

Clayton ‘s plans after graduation are to join the Marines and then go to college. He wants to play in the Big 30 game because he feels that it is a great honor to be chosen to represent his school and state. Clayton’s best memory while playing football was the comradery of his team. His hobbies include sports and video games. The Pittsburgh Steelers are his favorite team, and his favorite player is Lamar Jackson.

Tommaso Clemente 

Warren Area High School

Height: 5’10” – Weight: 155 lbs. 

Offense: WR – Defense: DB

Tommaso plans to attend college, continue to play sports, and get a great job. He lists his honors as Team Captain (Senior Year), Varsity Starter, and Most Kick Return Yards in State. Tommaso wants to play in the Big 30 game as it will be his last time playing football. His best memory while playing football was getting a kick return touchdown. His hobbies are snowboarding, track, football, and gaming. His favorite football team is the Buffalo Bills, and his favorite player is Josh Allen.

Gavin Lindemuth

Eisenhower Middle/Senior High School 

Height: 6′ 5″ – Weight: 190 lbs.

Offense: TE/WR – Defense: DE/LB

Gavin plans to attend Edinboro University in the fall seeking a degree in Exercise Science and a minor in Business. He will also continue his athletic career at the collegiate level as he has earned a spot on the Edinboro football team. After college Gavin is looking forward to finding a great job within the sports world, getting married to his high school sweetheart and having kids in a warm location. His honors are listed as 2x as the District 10 Defensive End of the Year. He feels this was truly an honor as the selection votes were from all coaches within the district, 2x Defensive Lineman of the Year voted by his teammates and staff, and 2x Ironman Award winner. Gavin wants to play in the Big 30 game, looking forward to showcasing his skills, as well as representing his state and school within the district while having the opportunity to play with some amazing athletes as well as his teammates one more time. His best memory of playing football was in his freshman year playing with a very talented team which took us to the playoffs. Also, the past season was special because their county consolidated schools, and he was able to play with some new athletes who have become very close friends. Gavin’s hobbies are spending time with family and friends, as well as going to the gym, playing basketball, traveling, and trying lots of amazing food. His favorite football team is the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Preston Ayers 

Coudersport High School

Height: 5’8″ – Weight: 165 lbs. 

Offense: RB/WR – Defense: LB

Preston plans to attend Penn West Edinboro. He will major in Business Management. Later on he hopes to succeed in Real Estate. He lists his honors Offensive and Defensive MVP for the Coudersport Falcons, the 12th Man Award in 2025 from Big 30, and Distinguished Honor Roll. Preston wants to play in the Big 30 game because he loves football and this is an opportunity to play. His best memory while playing football was seeing how proud friends, family, and community can be. His hobbies are football, working out, fishing, and spending time with his girlfriend. Preston’s favorite football team is the Philadelphia Eagles, and his favorite player is Antonio Brown.

Payton Bradley 

Salamanca High School

Height: 6’5″ – Weight: 210 lbs. 

Offense: QB – Defensive: S

Payton plans to attend college to achieve a degree in Physical Education and become a teacher/coach. His honors include Scholar Athletel0x, High Honor Roll 10x, (first in Class Academics), basketball 1x 1st team all-star, 2nd team all-star, baseball 2x, 1st team all-star, 1x 2nd team all-star, baseball 2x 1st team all-star, 2x 2nd team all-star, lx WNY 2nd team. He wants to play in the Big 30 game to represent his state and play one final football game in my career. His best memory while playing football was catching the game winning touchdown pass his sophomore year vs. Leroy to send us to the state final four. Payton lists his hobbies as football, basketball, baseball, video games, and working out. His favorite football team is the Buffalo Bills, and his favorite player is Jaxon Smith-Njigba.

Lukas Barrett 

Gowanda High School

Height: 5’8″ – Weight: 150 lbs. 

Offense: WR – Defense: S

Lukas plans to join the work force after high school His honors are Honor Roll, MVP , and Honorable Mention for Wide Receiver. Lukas wants to play in the Big 30 game because it will be his last chance to play his favorite game that he grew up with. His best memory while playing football was playing quarterback his junior year and leading his team to a winning record. He lists his hobbies as listening to music and hanging out with friends. His favorite football team is the Buffalo Bills.

Gavin Larson

Randolph Central School 

Height: 5’11” – Weight: 140 lbs. 

Offense: WR – Defense: CB

After graduation Gavin wants to continue bis football career in college and also major in criminal justice. His honors are Honorable Mention All-Conference in Football. He wants to play in the Big 30 game to have fun before going to college. He also had previous family members in this game, and so he wanted to be a part of it also. His best memory playing football was his week 1 game winning interception. Gavin lists his hobbies as fishing, riding four wheelers with friends, being outdoors, and spending time with family. His favorite football team is the San Francisco 49ers, and his favorite players are George Kittle and Jalen Ramsey.

Christopher Forney 

Allegany-Limestone Central School (Hinsdale) 

Height: 5’7″ – Weight: 150 lbs. 

Offense: WR – Defense: CB

Christopher plans to attend Niagara University for Sports Management and Business. His honors are receiving the Coaches Award 3 times and Exceptional Senior Game for Basketball. He wants to play in the Big 30 game for the great experience. Christopher’s best memory while playing football was the bus rides home from games and the locker room before games. He lists his hobbies as playing basketball and working out. Christopher’s favorite football team is the Buffalo Bills, and his favorite player is Randy Moss.

Calym Weatherley

Allegany-Limestone High School 

Height: 5’6″ – Weight: 150 lbs.

Offense: RB – Defense: DE

Calym’s future plans are to join the workforce. His honors are Rookie of the Year and Honor Rolls. Calym wants to play in the Big 30 game to represent his school and team the best way he can. His best memory while playing football was just being with the boys for one more game. His favorite football team is the Buffalo Bills.

Trent Lewis

Southwestern (Frewsburg) High School

Height: 5′ 11″ – Weight: 180 lbs. 

Offense: WR/QB – Defense: S

Trent plans to go to college after graduation to study Criminal Justice. His honors include 1st team All-State (2024), Team MVP (2024), 2nd Team All-State (2025), Team MVP (2025), 2nd Team All-State (2025), Team MVP (2025), Class C Player of the Year (2025), and Team Captain Jr./Sr. Years. Trent wants to play in the Big 30 game to be able to play high school ball one last time with his boys. His best memory while playing football was all the bus rides his sophomore year with Harrison Eckert. His hobbies include being outdoors and hanging out with friends and family. His favorite football team is the Buffalo Bills.

Specially designed firework donation canisters are now available throughout Olean and Portville, giving residents convenient opportunities to contribute. 

Current locations include Pleasant Valley Greenhouse & Nursery on North Route 16; The Beach House Tanning Salon, Kevin’s Custom Creations, Austin’s Lock and Key, and 3rd Base on West State Street; Mastel Ford-Lincoln, Tony’s Napoli, Mickey’s, and Toad’s Butcher Shop on East State Street; Worth W. Smith Company locations on both East and West State streets; 2 Sweets Desserts, Beef ’N’ Barrel Restaurant, Christie’s Boutique, Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce, and Green Acres on North Union Street; Threehouse Law Firm on North Barry Street; Worthy’s Pharmacy on Main Street; Walmart on Plaza Drive; and ZET’s Cuisine on South Main Street in Portville.

Donations may be made by placing spare change or cash directly into the canisters or by using the Venmo information displayed on each container. Additional locations continue to be added as more businesses join the effort.

The fundraising initiative reflects a strong collaboration among local businesses, volunteers, and community leaders. Organizers extended their appreciation to Worth W. Smith Company and Nate Smith for generously providing the materials used to construct the canisters.

The concept for the fundraiser originated years ago with Claudia Attard-Keary and Ed Jennings, whose vision helped inspire the current initiative. Over the winter months, Mike Threehouse dedicated significant time assembling the canisters, which feature patriotic designs including the American flag, stickers representing all branches of the U.S. military, and imagery celebrating the nation’s anniversary.

Organizers emphasized that the Olean Fireworks celebration is entirely funded through community donations, making public participation essential to continuing the longstanding tradition.

A continually updated list of donation canister locations will be shared through social media at www.facebook.com/OleanFireworksShow and www.facebook.com/OleanOilers as additional placements are confirmed, allowing residents to easily find opportunities to contribute.

Community members are encouraged to participate and help ensure another successful fireworks celebration at Bradner Stadium with the Olean Oilers.

Olean Star

WEST VALLEY — More than 360 people attended the 14th annual Cattaraugus County Farmer-Neighbor Dinner Wednesday at the West Valley Fire Hall.

The dinner is sponsored by the Cattaraugus County Agriculture and Farmland Protection Board, the Cattaraugus County Department of Economic Development, Planning and Tourism and the Cattaraugus County Soil and Water Conservation District.

Other sponsors include the Cattaraugus County Industrial Development Agency, the Pillittere Group, Farm Credit East, ACA and Milliman Firkel Land and Cattle.

The buffet, including beef and turkey, were locally grown and prepared by the West Valley Firemen’s Auxiliary.

Brendon O’Gorman, a South Dayton dairy farmer, who with his brother Connor O’Gorman, owns Eden Valley Farms, received the Farmer of the Year Award. Their operations include three organic facilities, while the original dairy remains a conventional operation.

One operation, Eden Valley Creamery, processes some of the milk from their Eden Valley Organics into a variety of cheeses and flavored milk.

Also recognized as a Friend of Agriculture was Katie Hill, who with her husband, Darin Hill, operates Hills Valley Farm in Cattaraugus. She has served in a variety of roles in Farm Bureau and 4-H since moving to Cattaraugus County in 2010.

Hill’s love for agriculture began in Missouri, where she grew up on her family’s dairy farm. She was an active member of 4-H and Future Farmers of American.

In 2014, she began reading in schools during Agriculture Week and the following year she led the team running the Ag Discovery Tent at the Cattaraugus County Fair. In 2020, she established the Variety Pack 4-H Club that has grown to 40 members. She took over the Dairy Ambassador Program (formerly Dairy Princess) in 2021, where youth ambassadors attend events to promote milk products.

Marcier Furl of East Otto, a 34-year employee of the Farm Service Agency (FSA) in Cattaraugus and Erie counties, was named Agriculture Legacy.

The best part of her FSA career was working with farmers. While she deeply valued her colleagues, “it was the daily interaction with the farming community that provided her with the most joy and a sense of purpose.”

Also recognized were members of the Hinsdale Central School Environthon Team which has notched back to back wins in 2024 and 2025 in the county’s high school Envirothion competition. 

The team includes Brett Bergstrom, Kaleigh Buckles, Robert Childs, Amaya Russell and advisor Warren Schulze, the school’s science teacher. This year’s competition will be held April 29 in Allegany State Park.

Agricultural vendors and representatives had tables around the hall and the band Homemade Jam performed before the dinner.