Thank you all so much for the calls, messages, and check-ins yesterday. It truly meant more than I can put into words. If I haven’t gotten back to you yet, please know how grateful I am—I just needed to step away at times and take things moment by moment.

I also want to sincerely thank everyone who shared the press release and news story. The more people who are aware, the better chance we have at finding the answers so many of us are still searching for.

My mom was deeply loved by so many, and yesterday we felt both the weight of her loss and the brightness of the light she brought into this world. That doesn’t fade—it lives on in all of us who knew her.

And I would be remiss not to acknowledge that we are not alone in this. There are so many families across the country grieving loved ones without answers. More than 250,000 murders have gone unsolved in the United States since 1980, with approximately 6,000 new cold cases added annually. The pain I feel is one shared by many, and my heart is with every single one of them.
​
Thank you for surrounding me with so much love. It is carrying me more than you know.

Press release
The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office is recognizing the anniversary of the death of Ann Lee Rippel by
reaffirming its commitment to pursuing answers in this case. The investigation has remained
active since 1997 and continues to be a priority for investigators.

On April 23, 1997, the body of Ann Lee Rippel was discovered in shallow water along the bank Of Little Tonawanda Creek, near the intersection of Brookville Road and West Bethany Road in the Town of Alexander. Investigators continue to review evidence, follow up on leads, and explore all potential
avenues that may help bring clarity and resolution to this case.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office urges anyone with information related to the death Of Ann Lee Rippel to come forward. Individuals who may have knowledge of the circumstances surrounding her death, or who may recall any unusual activity from that time period, are strongly encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s Office stresses that even the smallest detail could prove critical in advancing the investigation.
​
Tips can be submitted directly to the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office by phone or email. All information
received will be handled with the utmost care and confidentiality.
The Sheriff’s Office remains steadfast in its dedication to seeking justice and providing answers for the
victim’s family and the community.
If you wish to contact the Sheriff’s Office regarding this case, please use the contact information provided below:
Non-emergency phone: (585) 343-5000
Email: [email protected]

New York’s most inspiring and accomplished women will take the stage on Sunday, May 31st, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, for the highly anticipated Mrs. New York & Miss New York for America Strong Pageants. Held at the RIT Inn & Conference Center in Henrietta, this prestigious event serves as a spotlight for local titleholders who embody the spirit, strength, and beauty of the state of New York.

The evening will culminate in the crowning of representatives who will move on to represent the Empire State on the national stage. The winners will earn the opportunity to compete at the legendary Mrs. America and Miss America Strong Pageant in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Under the leadership of Executive Director Diane Hardgrove, the pageant system has become a transformative platform for women to develop their personal brands, advocate for causes, and build lasting professional networks. Hardgrove, a former Mrs. Arizona America 2006, Mrs. America 2006, and Mrs. World 2007, brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the empowerment of women. 

She says, "Each year, extraordinary women representing New York embark on a journey to capture the crown. Having personally experienced the magic of this pageant system, I know firsthand how transformative the journey can be. While beauty is an essential part of this prestigious organization, it is equally important to cultivate a genuine connection to family, platform, and community. Every participant exemplifies the qualities of strength, integrity, and purpose – hallmarks of this system.”

The pageant invites the local community to witness the crowning of the 2026 titleholders. Tickets are available for $30 at the door (cash or check only). Attendees will have the chance to support women who are not only competing for a title but are also serving as leaders and advocates within their own communities.

For more information about the pageant, the contestants, or the road to Mrs. America, please visit the official website at www.mrsnyamerica.com.

###

Event Details:
• What: Mrs. NY & Miss NY for America’s Strong Pageants
• When: Sunday, May 31st, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Where: RIT Inn & Conference Center, Henrietta, NY
• Tickets: $30 (Available at the door; cash or check only)
• Website: www.mrsnyamerica.com