Awardees
Youth Award -- Faith Benson
Faith Benson, a freshmen at Allegany-Limestone Central School (ALCS) is being recognized in the Youth category. She is a winning essayist in the 2006 St. Bonaventure University essay contest in conjunction with Dr. Martin Luther King week. Faith has had poetry chosen for publication in the Anthology of Poetry by Young Americans. She has been a musician in the junior high band at the Cattaraugus County All-County music festival and was a junior-high Student Activities Council representative for Allegany-Limestone. Faith currently participates in the ALCS tennis club and history club. She works part-time at Linger Longer Cafe in Allegany.
Youth Award -- David Allen
David Allen, a senior at Olean High School, is being recognized in the Youth category. Mr. Allen has been very involved with activities at his church, St. Mary of the Angels Church. He was presented the Manus Christi award which is given to outstanding high school youth from the Diocese of Buffalo who they believe is carrying out the work of the Catholic Church. Only 10 high school youth members receive this award out of all youth in Eric, Chautauqua and Cattaraugus Counties. Other volunteer duties at church include the youth group core, the Acting Troupe, Assistant Director of Operations for the Eucharistic Youth Rally in 2005, Head of Technology for the Eucharistic Youth Rally in 2006, and the World Youth Day Pilgrim to Cologne, Germany in August 2005.
Mr. Allen’s school activities include participation in many scholastic and athletic programs. He is a three-time recipient of the Olean High Student of the Month Award, and placed first place in the Young Authors Conference in Spring 2002. Mr. Allen is very involved in theater and music at school. He was a musical actor in the school’s four productions, Kiss Me Kate, Les Miserables, Beauty and the Beast, and Anything Goes. Mr. Allen participates in Olean Theater Workshop and is an All-County Vocal Musician.
Mr. Allen was presented the Sportsmanship Award for 2006 Track and Field, and was named Section VI All-Stars Honorable Mention for Soccer Fall 2006. He is active with the Enchanted Mountain Soccer Club; the Olean Soccer Club as Referee, Assistant Coach and Player; and was treasurer for the Olean Interact Junior Rotary Club. He is a very proud student of Olean High School and recently led the Olean High School Cheering Section for the Boys Basketball Team 2006-2007 that went to the NYS Final Four.
Culture Award -- Jennifer ‘Jan’ Rhody
Jennifer ‘Jan’ Rhody, an ‘encourager’, a nurturer, a person who goes well beyond the boundaries of the school day, both to instill a love of music in students and to show them the vast richness music can bring to their lives will be presented the Cultural Award. Ms. Rhody has been a teacher of music in the Olean City School District for 18 years, both at the Olean Middle School and now at Olean High School. Last year, an unexpected change in music personnel at OHS caused an emergency vacancy, Ms. Rhody stepped in and assisted the high schools with their preparations for Solo Fest, All-County, and All-State.
Ms. Rhody is also a force in enriching the quality of life in the community, as she is a leader in the local B’hai religion - a group that has done much to promote and heighten cultural diversity and sensitivity in the greater Olean area. She is also the choral director for the Peace Choir, a choral group of singers from all walks of life.
In addition to her music activities, Ms. Rhody organized a “Let’s Grow Olean” project that each spring has middle school students out on West State Street, planting flowers around the trees for many blocks along the street. She has made classes of special education students the leaders in this project that beautifies our city.
Ms. Rhody never stops teaching -- whether it is about music, academics, or life -- she consistently puts her students first.
Education Award -- Jeff Anastasia
Jeff Anastasia, recognized with the Good News Education award, embodies what the Olean City School District’s mission statement identifies as core values: excellence; honesty/integrity; learning; mutual respect; resourcefulness; responsibility/accountability; sensitively to diverse needs and teamwork.
Mr. Anastasia is devoted to children and has a remarkable talent to work with them and to serve them in many different ways, inside and outside the gymnasium. He is a teacher and a coach who is a champion for kids. Mr. Anastasia works tirelessly year round to make a difference for our children and teenagers as he teaches and coaches them in developing life long skills for maintaining physical fitness, wellness, a healthy life style and good sportsmanship.
As Olean High School’s Varsity Basketball coach, Mr. Anastasia has coached teams to winning seasons with a stellar overall record. He takes a personal interest in each individual athlete. He goes above and beyond by insisting on and appropriately intervening so his players maintain high academic standards and represents themselves as positive role models for their peers and young admirers.
Mr. Anastasia is also a cooperating teacher for Phys. Ed. Majors attending St. Bonaventure University. Through these duties, Mr. Anastasia teaches/develops student teachers for six weeks and has even welcomed a dozen student teachers to observe him in action for a day.
Education Award -- Parent Education Program
Parent Education Program’s Good News Education award acknowledges the selfless service to build and rebuild families from prenatal care onward.
The Parent Education Program (PEP), located in rural Olean, New York, strives to promote the development of a rich, productive, and fulfilling lifestyle in partnership with all families. In essence, PEP’s mission is to strengthen families. PEP can be described as a three-tiered pyramid composed of eight major strength-based family supportive programs and projects each addressing different needs, interests, and goals parents and families may have.
These programs include Family Resource/Support Center, Parents as Teachers, Healthy Families Cattaraugus, Healthy Families Allegany, Families First Counseling Services, Families Together, Family Alternative Resolutions Program, and the Independent Living Program.
Government Award -- Jon Baker
Jon Baker will be presented the Good News Government award for his many years of service with the Cattaraugus County Legislature serving the County residents. Mr. Baker began his career as a Cattaraugus County legislator serving District 10 in January 1996. Mr. Baker was named majority leader of the County legislature in 2004 and continues serving in that capacity. He has served on many County legislative committees: Finance; Senior Services; Strategic Planning; Labor Relations; and Human Services.
Mr. Baker was the Chairman of the County Human Services committee in 1997, and also Chairman of the County Off Track Betting Committee from 1996-2005. He is the legislative representative to the County Community Services Board, the County’s Board of Health, and the County Criminal Justice Advisory Committee.
Religious Award -- Debbie Bigham
Debbie Bigham is being recognized for outstanding efforts within her church and community with the Good News Religious Award. This religious sector award commends her for a dedication to changing other’s lives, particularly children.
Mrs. Bigham leads the Children’s Ministry Department at Franklinville Free Methodist Church (FFMC) where she oversees a volunteer staff of 15 and coordinates various activities. She runs her church’s Christian Life Club, welcoming all community children, teaching them about the Bible and showing them how to minister to others.
Mrs. Bigham also serves as secretary on FFMC’s Leadership Team, assists with FFMC’s
Church in the Park program in August, participates in and sometimes leads a Worship Praise Team, conducts a Christmas Pageant and works with a teen Christian Band, Miraculous Escape.
Her goal is to help young people realize their potential as children of God. Her pastor, Reverend David Fisher, says, “Debbie gives 110% to the church in whatever she’s asked to do. She more often thinks of others ahead of herself.”
Senior Award -- Al Morrow
Al Morrow, a volunteer with the Westons Mills Fire Department having served from 1965-1976 and then 2000 - present, will be recognized with the Good News Senior Award. He has served that organization faithfully as a fireman and fund-raiser. Mr. Morrow has a farm where he raised horses for more than 20 years, he has opened his heart and shared his farm with special children giving them pony rides, wagon/hay rides, and horseback riding lessons.
Mr. Morrow is a volunteer at Olean General Hospital, as a runner and in the emergency room. In November, OGH started VanGogh, a van service which transports patients who have difficulty driving or getting a ride, to and from the hospital for no charge. OGH found a reliable volunteer driver in Mr. Morrow. He has added this 30 hour a week duty to his volunteer schedule.
Senior Award -- Betsy Leute
Betsy Leute is being presented with the Senior Award for her many years of service to many non-proft organizations. She has volunteered for Interfaith Caregivers for the past seven years. She has averaged 2,500 miles per year escorting those in need of transportation to medical appointments, errands, and worship. Mrs. Leute, a founding member of the Southern Tier Quilting Association, has also served as vice president and president. She has presented numerous instructional presentations and has participated in guild service projects that include: quilts for Africa; local service quilts; and annual Christmas stockings for local groups.
At St. Mary of the Angels parish, Mrs. Leute has been a Eucharistic minister, member of Angel Outreach ministry and has made costumes for Morningstar productions and quilts for the Youth Ministry raffles. She also volunteers her time at the Genesis House washing bedding, cleaning the shelter, and transporting members. Mrs. Leute is on a special After Care committee that keeps past residents strong and independent by assisting in budgeting and social skills.
Wellness Award -- Bill Burdsall
Bill Burdsall will be presented the Good News Wellness Award for his selfless dedication and leadership has significantly and positivity affected the lives of kids with special needs. Mr. Burdsall has served the Area 25 (Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties) as coordinator for the New York State Special Olympics for 39 years. He has also served on the Community Services Board for Cattaraugus County and the ReHabilitation Center board for several decades.
Wellness Award -- Dr. Lyle F. Renodin Foundation
The Dr. Lyle F. Renodin Foundation will be recognized with the Good News Wellness Award for focusing its energy and resources in the Twin Tier region to improve the residents’ quality of life. In 1991, after St. Francis Hospital merged with Olean General Hospital, the St. Francis Hospital Corporation became the St. Francis Ministries Corporation. This corporation served as the depository of the proceeds from St. Francis Hospital. The funds were to be used to support, to make grants and to benefit the charitable ministries and works consistent with the historical health-related mission and ministries of the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany.
In 2000, the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany renamed the St. Francis Ministries Corporation to the Dr. Lyle F. Renodin Foundation, as an expression of gratitude to their long time friend. Lyle F. Renodin, Ph.D. is a former student and financial advisor to the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany.
The Dr. Lyle F. Renodin Foundation, attentive to the religious tradition and pastoral mission of the Franciscan Sisters, is committed to the Gospel stance of social justice which is lived out in a spirit of love, healing, and compassion. The foundation focuses its energy and resources primarily in the Twin Tier Region and strives to improve the quality of life in our poor and marginalized neighbors. Over the past six years, the Renodin Foundation has awarded small grants totaling more than $312,000 to worthy organizations.
Community Award -- Leadership Cattaraugus
Leadership Cattaraugus will be awarded the Good News Community Award for its service to help identify and grow future civic leaders. Leadership Cattaraugus was established in November 2003 as a joint effort of Jamestown Community College, Cattaraugus County Campus, The ReHabilitation Center, St. Bonaventure University, and Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce.
Since 2004, the course has graduated more than 60 leaders who have been educated through day-long sessions on economic development, education, tourism, media, government, health and medical issues, human resources, and “how to be more effective members of a board of directors.” Each session devotes a full eight hours to a given topic, exploring it by engaging local leaders in the topic of the day and touring regional facilities. Over the past three years, sessions have engaged leaders from corporations, all levels of government, not-for-profits, and service agencies.
Additionally, Leadership Cattaraugus has introduced two “leadership components” to the curriculum - one is a whole day devoted to leadership skills and philosophies, the other is a one-hour leadership segment incorporated into each day-long session regardless of the topic.
Graduates of the program have felt a much stronger knowledge of the strengths and weaknesses of our community. Graduates continue to work collaboratively with each other believing that together they can make a difference.
Community Award -- Julie Wolf
Julie Wolf will be recognized for her contributions to Community with the Good News Community Award. In 1986, Julie Wolf accepted the position of Executive Director for the American Cancer Society, and continued to serve cancer victims and their families during their time of need. In 1997, Julie accepted the position as Executive Director for Interfaith Caregivers and the Association for the Blind. She continued to put her heart and soul into serving the people of our community. In 2006, Interfaith Caregivers served 799 people, 82 of whom are visually impaired.
Ms. Wolf has also been the coordinator of the “Gift Tree Program” for the past eight years. The Gift Tree program is a very extensive program that helps hundreds of needy families enjoy a wonderful Christmas that otherwise would not have a Christmas at all.
Ms. Wolf is also very involved and active with other organizations including: The United Way; The Senior Planning Board; the Greater Olean Area Churches; Women’s Ecumenical of Olean; Allegany Alumni Board of Directors; United States Postal Advisory Board; and St. John’s Lutheran Church. Ms. Wolf is dedicated to serving those in need no matter what time of day or night. As Tom Donahue wrote about Ms. Wolf in the November 26, 2006 Times Herald, “They say behind every great cause is a great woman!”
Faith Benson, a freshmen at Allegany-Limestone Central School (ALCS) is being recognized in the Youth category. She is a winning essayist in the 2006 St. Bonaventure University essay contest in conjunction with Dr. Martin Luther King week. Faith has had poetry chosen for publication in the Anthology of Poetry by Young Americans. She has been a musician in the junior high band at the Cattaraugus County All-County music festival and was a junior-high Student Activities Council representative for Allegany-Limestone. Faith currently participates in the ALCS tennis club and history club. She works part-time at Linger Longer Cafe in Allegany.
Youth Award -- David Allen
David Allen, a senior at Olean High School, is being recognized in the Youth category. Mr. Allen has been very involved with activities at his church, St. Mary of the Angels Church. He was presented the Manus Christi award which is given to outstanding high school youth from the Diocese of Buffalo who they believe is carrying out the work of the Catholic Church. Only 10 high school youth members receive this award out of all youth in Eric, Chautauqua and Cattaraugus Counties. Other volunteer duties at church include the youth group core, the Acting Troupe, Assistant Director of Operations for the Eucharistic Youth Rally in 2005, Head of Technology for the Eucharistic Youth Rally in 2006, and the World Youth Day Pilgrim to Cologne, Germany in August 2005.
Mr. Allen’s school activities include participation in many scholastic and athletic programs. He is a three-time recipient of the Olean High Student of the Month Award, and placed first place in the Young Authors Conference in Spring 2002. Mr. Allen is very involved in theater and music at school. He was a musical actor in the school’s four productions, Kiss Me Kate, Les Miserables, Beauty and the Beast, and Anything Goes. Mr. Allen participates in Olean Theater Workshop and is an All-County Vocal Musician.
Mr. Allen was presented the Sportsmanship Award for 2006 Track and Field, and was named Section VI All-Stars Honorable Mention for Soccer Fall 2006. He is active with the Enchanted Mountain Soccer Club; the Olean Soccer Club as Referee, Assistant Coach and Player; and was treasurer for the Olean Interact Junior Rotary Club. He is a very proud student of Olean High School and recently led the Olean High School Cheering Section for the Boys Basketball Team 2006-2007 that went to the NYS Final Four.
Culture Award -- Jennifer ‘Jan’ Rhody
Jennifer ‘Jan’ Rhody, an ‘encourager’, a nurturer, a person who goes well beyond the boundaries of the school day, both to instill a love of music in students and to show them the vast richness music can bring to their lives will be presented the Cultural Award. Ms. Rhody has been a teacher of music in the Olean City School District for 18 years, both at the Olean Middle School and now at Olean High School. Last year, an unexpected change in music personnel at OHS caused an emergency vacancy, Ms. Rhody stepped in and assisted the high schools with their preparations for Solo Fest, All-County, and All-State.
Ms. Rhody is also a force in enriching the quality of life in the community, as she is a leader in the local B’hai religion - a group that has done much to promote and heighten cultural diversity and sensitivity in the greater Olean area. She is also the choral director for the Peace Choir, a choral group of singers from all walks of life.
In addition to her music activities, Ms. Rhody organized a “Let’s Grow Olean” project that each spring has middle school students out on West State Street, planting flowers around the trees for many blocks along the street. She has made classes of special education students the leaders in this project that beautifies our city.
Ms. Rhody never stops teaching -- whether it is about music, academics, or life -- she consistently puts her students first.
Education Award -- Jeff Anastasia
Jeff Anastasia, recognized with the Good News Education award, embodies what the Olean City School District’s mission statement identifies as core values: excellence; honesty/integrity; learning; mutual respect; resourcefulness; responsibility/accountability; sensitively to diverse needs and teamwork.
Mr. Anastasia is devoted to children and has a remarkable talent to work with them and to serve them in many different ways, inside and outside the gymnasium. He is a teacher and a coach who is a champion for kids. Mr. Anastasia works tirelessly year round to make a difference for our children and teenagers as he teaches and coaches them in developing life long skills for maintaining physical fitness, wellness, a healthy life style and good sportsmanship.
As Olean High School’s Varsity Basketball coach, Mr. Anastasia has coached teams to winning seasons with a stellar overall record. He takes a personal interest in each individual athlete. He goes above and beyond by insisting on and appropriately intervening so his players maintain high academic standards and represents themselves as positive role models for their peers and young admirers.
Mr. Anastasia is also a cooperating teacher for Phys. Ed. Majors attending St. Bonaventure University. Through these duties, Mr. Anastasia teaches/develops student teachers for six weeks and has even welcomed a dozen student teachers to observe him in action for a day.
Education Award -- Parent Education Program
Parent Education Program’s Good News Education award acknowledges the selfless service to build and rebuild families from prenatal care onward.
The Parent Education Program (PEP), located in rural Olean, New York, strives to promote the development of a rich, productive, and fulfilling lifestyle in partnership with all families. In essence, PEP’s mission is to strengthen families. PEP can be described as a three-tiered pyramid composed of eight major strength-based family supportive programs and projects each addressing different needs, interests, and goals parents and families may have.
These programs include Family Resource/Support Center, Parents as Teachers, Healthy Families Cattaraugus, Healthy Families Allegany, Families First Counseling Services, Families Together, Family Alternative Resolutions Program, and the Independent Living Program.
Government Award -- Jon Baker
Jon Baker will be presented the Good News Government award for his many years of service with the Cattaraugus County Legislature serving the County residents. Mr. Baker began his career as a Cattaraugus County legislator serving District 10 in January 1996. Mr. Baker was named majority leader of the County legislature in 2004 and continues serving in that capacity. He has served on many County legislative committees: Finance; Senior Services; Strategic Planning; Labor Relations; and Human Services.
Mr. Baker was the Chairman of the County Human Services committee in 1997, and also Chairman of the County Off Track Betting Committee from 1996-2005. He is the legislative representative to the County Community Services Board, the County’s Board of Health, and the County Criminal Justice Advisory Committee.
Religious Award -- Debbie Bigham
Debbie Bigham is being recognized for outstanding efforts within her church and community with the Good News Religious Award. This religious sector award commends her for a dedication to changing other’s lives, particularly children.
Mrs. Bigham leads the Children’s Ministry Department at Franklinville Free Methodist Church (FFMC) where she oversees a volunteer staff of 15 and coordinates various activities. She runs her church’s Christian Life Club, welcoming all community children, teaching them about the Bible and showing them how to minister to others.
Mrs. Bigham also serves as secretary on FFMC’s Leadership Team, assists with FFMC’s
Church in the Park program in August, participates in and sometimes leads a Worship Praise Team, conducts a Christmas Pageant and works with a teen Christian Band, Miraculous Escape.
Her goal is to help young people realize their potential as children of God. Her pastor, Reverend David Fisher, says, “Debbie gives 110% to the church in whatever she’s asked to do. She more often thinks of others ahead of herself.”
Senior Award -- Al Morrow
Al Morrow, a volunteer with the Westons Mills Fire Department having served from 1965-1976 and then 2000 - present, will be recognized with the Good News Senior Award. He has served that organization faithfully as a fireman and fund-raiser. Mr. Morrow has a farm where he raised horses for more than 20 years, he has opened his heart and shared his farm with special children giving them pony rides, wagon/hay rides, and horseback riding lessons.
Mr. Morrow is a volunteer at Olean General Hospital, as a runner and in the emergency room. In November, OGH started VanGogh, a van service which transports patients who have difficulty driving or getting a ride, to and from the hospital for no charge. OGH found a reliable volunteer driver in Mr. Morrow. He has added this 30 hour a week duty to his volunteer schedule.
Senior Award -- Betsy Leute
Betsy Leute is being presented with the Senior Award for her many years of service to many non-proft organizations. She has volunteered for Interfaith Caregivers for the past seven years. She has averaged 2,500 miles per year escorting those in need of transportation to medical appointments, errands, and worship. Mrs. Leute, a founding member of the Southern Tier Quilting Association, has also served as vice president and president. She has presented numerous instructional presentations and has participated in guild service projects that include: quilts for Africa; local service quilts; and annual Christmas stockings for local groups.
At St. Mary of the Angels parish, Mrs. Leute has been a Eucharistic minister, member of Angel Outreach ministry and has made costumes for Morningstar productions and quilts for the Youth Ministry raffles. She also volunteers her time at the Genesis House washing bedding, cleaning the shelter, and transporting members. Mrs. Leute is on a special After Care committee that keeps past residents strong and independent by assisting in budgeting and social skills.
Wellness Award -- Bill Burdsall
Bill Burdsall will be presented the Good News Wellness Award for his selfless dedication and leadership has significantly and positivity affected the lives of kids with special needs. Mr. Burdsall has served the Area 25 (Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties) as coordinator for the New York State Special Olympics for 39 years. He has also served on the Community Services Board for Cattaraugus County and the ReHabilitation Center board for several decades.
Wellness Award -- Dr. Lyle F. Renodin Foundation
The Dr. Lyle F. Renodin Foundation will be recognized with the Good News Wellness Award for focusing its energy and resources in the Twin Tier region to improve the residents’ quality of life. In 1991, after St. Francis Hospital merged with Olean General Hospital, the St. Francis Hospital Corporation became the St. Francis Ministries Corporation. This corporation served as the depository of the proceeds from St. Francis Hospital. The funds were to be used to support, to make grants and to benefit the charitable ministries and works consistent with the historical health-related mission and ministries of the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany.
In 2000, the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany renamed the St. Francis Ministries Corporation to the Dr. Lyle F. Renodin Foundation, as an expression of gratitude to their long time friend. Lyle F. Renodin, Ph.D. is a former student and financial advisor to the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany.
The Dr. Lyle F. Renodin Foundation, attentive to the religious tradition and pastoral mission of the Franciscan Sisters, is committed to the Gospel stance of social justice which is lived out in a spirit of love, healing, and compassion. The foundation focuses its energy and resources primarily in the Twin Tier Region and strives to improve the quality of life in our poor and marginalized neighbors. Over the past six years, the Renodin Foundation has awarded small grants totaling more than $312,000 to worthy organizations.
Community Award -- Leadership Cattaraugus
Leadership Cattaraugus will be awarded the Good News Community Award for its service to help identify and grow future civic leaders. Leadership Cattaraugus was established in November 2003 as a joint effort of Jamestown Community College, Cattaraugus County Campus, The ReHabilitation Center, St. Bonaventure University, and Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce.
Since 2004, the course has graduated more than 60 leaders who have been educated through day-long sessions on economic development, education, tourism, media, government, health and medical issues, human resources, and “how to be more effective members of a board of directors.” Each session devotes a full eight hours to a given topic, exploring it by engaging local leaders in the topic of the day and touring regional facilities. Over the past three years, sessions have engaged leaders from corporations, all levels of government, not-for-profits, and service agencies.
Additionally, Leadership Cattaraugus has introduced two “leadership components” to the curriculum - one is a whole day devoted to leadership skills and philosophies, the other is a one-hour leadership segment incorporated into each day-long session regardless of the topic.
Graduates of the program have felt a much stronger knowledge of the strengths and weaknesses of our community. Graduates continue to work collaboratively with each other believing that together they can make a difference.
Community Award -- Julie Wolf
Julie Wolf will be recognized for her contributions to Community with the Good News Community Award. In 1986, Julie Wolf accepted the position of Executive Director for the American Cancer Society, and continued to serve cancer victims and their families during their time of need. In 1997, Julie accepted the position as Executive Director for Interfaith Caregivers and the Association for the Blind. She continued to put her heart and soul into serving the people of our community. In 2006, Interfaith Caregivers served 799 people, 82 of whom are visually impaired.
Ms. Wolf has also been the coordinator of the “Gift Tree Program” for the past eight years. The Gift Tree program is a very extensive program that helps hundreds of needy families enjoy a wonderful Christmas that otherwise would not have a Christmas at all.
Ms. Wolf is also very involved and active with other organizations including: The United Way; The Senior Planning Board; the Greater Olean Area Churches; Women’s Ecumenical of Olean; Allegany Alumni Board of Directors; United States Postal Advisory Board; and St. John’s Lutheran Church. Ms. Wolf is dedicated to serving those in need no matter what time of day or night. As Tom Donahue wrote about Ms. Wolf in the November 26, 2006 Times Herald, “They say behind every great cause is a great woman!”