Most of the school budgets in Genesee County passed during Tuesday’s vote, with Oakfield-Alabama district residents saying no to a proposed $25,555,345 budget 198 to 171. 

Here are the results as reported by each district:

Alexander Central School’s Proposition 1, the budget, passed by 75 yes to 24 no.

Proposition 2, equipment capital reserve fund, authorizing the board  to “expend $122,000 from the existing 2022 Equipment Capital Reserve Fund for the acquisition of Computer Hardware with an estimated cost of $7,000, Chromebooks with an estimated cost of $64,000, (1) enclosed trailer with an estimated cost of $11,000, and (1) bus snow remover with an estimated cost of $40,000 as permitted by law,” received 89 yes votes versus 19 no.

The election of Board of Education members gave 69 votes to Christopher Mullen for the on open seat, with two write-in votes.

Batavia City School District passed.

Byron-Bergen Central School Superintendent Patrick McGee said he was “proud to say our school budget and propositions passed this evening.”

The district’s budget passed 266 yes to 90 no, and Proposition 2 for a bus purchase also passed by 264 yes to 89 no.

“Thanks to all who came out to vote,” McGee said.

Board of Education seats went to Kim Carlson with 305 votes, Rich Pringle with 296 and Heidi Ball, 291. (Plus there were nine write-ins.)

Elba Central School’s budget passed by 94 yes to 17 no, and the district’s Capital Outlay Reserve Fund vote was approved with 90 yes and 21 no votes.

Proposition 3 to “expend from the Capital Bus and Vehicle Replacement Fund to purchase 1 (one) 28-passenger school bus,” also passed by 98 yes to 13 no.

One Board of Education seat went to Michael Riner for a five-year term. There were no voting tallies available for him.

Le Roy Central School District residents gave approval by three times or more with a yes vote of 275 to 92 no for the general budget, and 314 yes and 54 no for the library budget.

Two Board of Education candidates, Peter W. Loftus and Rachael Greene, were each voted in for three-year terms by 319 and 311, respectively. Woodward Memorial Library Trustee candidate Michael Iten was given 326 votes for one open seat.

Oakfield-Alabama Central School's budget failed with 198 voters no and 171 voting yes. Board of Education members Kevin Beuler and incumbent Justin Staebell each received 319 votes for two open seats. 

The Batavian reached out to Superintendent John Fisgus for comment Tuesday evening and he asked for emailed questions. We had not heard back by the time of publication, and will follow up with his comments.

Pavilion Central School’s budget was approved by residents with 113 yes and 24 no votes, and the library tax levy vote also passed by 99 yes to 37 no.

Board of Education members Callin Ayers-Tillotson received 110 votes and Margaret Gaston 113, each for five-year terms, while library trustee votes came in at 122 for Stephen Gould and 114 for Timothy Wasiewicz, each for three years.

Pembroke Central School’s budget was given 250 yes to 71 no votes, and the request to purchase school buses was also approved by 250 yes to 69 no.

One school board seat for a five-year term went to Jessica Edwards with 290 votes.

Proposition 3 (Corfu Public Library) was approved by 243 yes to 76 No, and the library’s board election for two three-year seats went to Michael Doktor, with 276 votes, and Michael Hobbs, 277.

Oakfield-Alabama collected 15 hits and scored in five separate innings on Monday to defeat Caledonia-Mumford 10-1.

Oakfield-Alabama opened the game with four runs in the first inning and added runs in the second, fourth, fifth, and seventh. 

Avery Watterson went 3-for-5 with a triple, one RBI, three runs, and two stolen bases. Watterson also pitched two innings, allowing no hits or runs and striking out one to earn the win. 

Jack Cianfrini went 3-for-5 with a double, one RBI, three runs, and three stolen bases. Cianfrini pitched 2.2 innings, allowing three hits and one earned run with three strikeouts. Hunter Tobolski added a triple and two RBIs.

Levi Kabel finished 3-for-4 with one RBI, one walk, and two stolen bases. Ryan Schnaufer went 2-for-4 with a double, one RBI, and one walk.

Caledonia-Mumford managed three hits. Landon Sheehan pitched 6.2 innings, allowing 15 hits, 10 runs (four earned), and four walks with four strikeouts. Aidan McKay and Dillon Alcott each had a hit for Caledonia-Mumford.

Oakfield-Alabama did not commit an error. 

Photos by Jordyn Tobolski

Le Roy closed its regular season with a win over Livonia in a game that stretched late into the night on Monday.

Jake Higgins drove in the winning run, scoring Brady McClurg.

The game went 10 innings with Le Roy coming out on top, 14-13.

The game featured 115 batters, 392 pitches, 25 walks, 23 hits, 23 strikeouts, 10 unearned runs, and 16 runs scored after the fifth inning. Both teams traded leads throughout the contest.

Peter Clark earned the win for Le Roy. The senior catcher and pitcher allowed two hits and three runs over four innings, striking out five and walking six.

Le Roy finished the season with 10 games in 12 days, winning 8 of their last 10 to end at 15-3.

Photos by Leslie Higgins

NEW: Deal of the Day Bundle, Family Fun Downtown!! This special will be included at random in Deal of the Day posts during May. There are only four packages available. Members of Early Access Pass have exclusive access to the Deal of the Day during the first four hours the post is available. To join Early Access Pass, click here. For a discount on EAP, use the promo code SUMMER2025.

Jim Scorse of Stafford Country Club teamed with Wade Sarkis of Canandaigua Country Club to win the Senior Division at the 2025 New York State Men’s Four-Ball Championship at Turning Stone Resort’s Kaluhyat Golf Course.

Sarkis and Scorse finished at 7-under-par 137 after rounds of 68 and 69, earning a seven-stroke victory. They were the only team in the Senior Division to post both rounds under par. The pair combined for four birdies in the final round—two each—to secure the win in wire-to-wire fashion.

“It’s awesome. We definitely play well with each other. We’re good friends, so we don’t really worry about the other one playing bad. We just go out and play good golf, have fun,” Scorse said.

This marks Scorse’s eighth New York State Golf Association crown and his third NYS Four-Ball title, but his first in the Senior Division and first with Sarkis as his partner.

“It’s definitely nice as far as the beginning of the season to get in there and have a partner to fall back on,” Scorse said.

The NYS Men’s Four-Ball Championship features top amateur teams from across the state competing in multiple divisions. The event is organized by the New York State Golf Association.

Other Division Winners
    •    Open Division: Owen Corby (Monroe Golf Club) / Anthony Maglisco (Pompey Club)
    •    Super Senior Division: Jim Johnson (Durand Eastman Golf Club) / Jim Burns (Canandaigua Country Club)

Press Release:

Golfers, mark your calendars and grab your clubs! The inaugural HomeCare & Hospice Golf Classic tees off Tuesday, June 24, at the scenic and celebrated Terry Hills Golf Course in Batavia. HomeCare & Hospice has been servicing the Wyoming and Genesee Counties since 2000.

Recognized as Western New York’s #1 Public Golf Course and home of the famed Jim Kelly Celebrity Classic, Terry Hills offers 27 meticulously groomed holes and a reputation for providing an exceptional yet challenging experience for golfers of all skill levels.

Registration is $100 per golfer or $400 per foursome, which includes: Greens fees and cart, Lunch out on the course, Dinner at the evening awards ceremony, Swag bag of goodies, and Fun contests and on-course surprises.

More than just a day of golf, the event supports a deeper purpose. Proceeds benefit the HomeCare & Hospice Foundation, helping deliver compassionate care and vital services across Allegany, Cattaraugus, Wyoming, and Genesee Counties.

"It’s a chance to enjoy 18 holes on a top-tier course, spend time outdoors with your colleagues or friends, and know that your day on the green is directly supporting families in our communities," said Melissa Sullivan, CEO of HomeCare & Hospice. "It’s meaningful fun—with a mission behind every swing."

This year’s classic features favorite contests like mulligans, closest to the line, and longest drive, as well as two unique events: 

• Putting Contest – $5 for one ball or $10 for three. Sink a hole-in-one and you could win $500 cash, courtesy of Both, Branch & Hendrix of Olean. If multiple players make it in, we’ll draw from the names of those top putters to crown the winner.
• Air Cannon Shot – Ever launched your golf ball from an air cannon? Now’s your chance—for just $10, take aim and fire!

While HomeCare & Hospice has hosted golf tournaments across its four-county service area in years past, this marks a new beginning. Following direction from the organization’s Board of Directors to alternate fundraising events between the northern and southern regions, Batavia was selected as the site of this year’s tournament to strengthen support in Genesee and Wyoming Counties—while welcoming teams traveling north from Allegany and Cattaraugus Counties.

"Hospice doesn’t have a location—it impacts families everywhere,” Sullivan added. “And we’re excited to see the southern counties show their support by hitting the road for a great day of golf in the north."

Sponsorship opportunities are still available, including hole sponsors, swag, lunch, cocktail hour, specialty tee signs, and golf hole discs. For more information, contact HomeCare & Hospice at 716-372-2106. 

Twelve teams already committed include: Portville Central School, Databranch, Kinley Contractors, National Fuel, Paul Brown Chevrolet, Siemens, Tim Keller / Vision Financial Group, Wright Beverage, Lawley Insurance, HomeCare & Hospice, Bradford Publishing, and 7 Mountains Media.

The event committee is seeking to fill a field of 20 foursomes, and spots are filling fast. To register, call 716-372-2106 or visit homecare-hospice.org. Swing big. Give back. Make a difference.

Press Release:

The Building Champions Basketball Camp is set to return this summer, offering athletes in Grades 1 through 7 the opportunity to develop core basketball skills in a fun, structured environment. The camp will take place from July 7–10 at the newly designated location, Zambito Gymnasium at GCC, located at 1 College Road, Batavia.

Campers will receive training in fundamental basketball areas including dribbling and ball handling, shooting, passing and catching, defense, footwork, and movement. Each day, participants will have access to a hydration station and a healthy snack, with a pizza party planned as part of the experience. All athletes will receive a camp T-shirt and have the opportunity to be recognized as “Camper of the Day” or to win the “MVP of the Week” trophy.

Camp Schedule:

• Grades 1 - 3: 2 - 4 p.m.
• Grades 4 - 7: 5 - 7 p.m.

Registration Fee: $125

For more information, contact Camp Director Coach Zambito at 585-813-8592 or ciaci4zambito@gmail.com.

Stepping briefly into her future role as Public Works commissioner, Laura Wadhams reviewed a laundry list of 18 items with Genesee County legislators in the absence of Tim Hens during Monday’s Public Service meeting. 

Though it won’t be long before Hens hangs up his commissioner’s name tag for good, as he is set to retire May 30. Wadhams steamrolled through the list of county road, airport and bridge projects and related financial requests, including the way in which they’re approaching a replacement for the Colby Road Bridge.

It just might put Genesee County on the map of innovation.

“So our plan for this bridge is actually a new solution for bridges. They call them InQuik bridges. It comes as a … pre-engineered form, stay-in-place form, with all rebar in it. So if we buy this, it's kind of like buying precast. You buy this, you set it, and you fill it with concrete. You can set it with an excavator instead of a crane, so there's a lot of savings in costs and time there,” Wadhams said. “So we're going to try that for this one this year. It comes on a truck and sets it with an excavator. There's a couple of people in the works with these projects statewide, but they've been built quite a bit out in Colorado and other states. They just got approved by New York State in the last year.”

This will be a test case for the county, and if it works out, then other bridges may be pursued with this same system, she said. The county has bridges of mixed materials, such as arch pipes for Rose Road Bridge, and a timber deck at one on Attica Road, she said. Colby Road’s bridge is steel, which doesn’t fare so well in our wintry, icy weather, Wadhams said.

InQuik bridges are touted as “a full solution above the foundation,” with lightweight components, reinforcing steel and formwork lifted into place, spliced together and then cast in place to complete the reinforced concrete structure.

Installation is completed in less than a week after the foundation, and it’s durable for 75+ years, website selling points state.

“This one is locally funded, so I think this one specifically we'll be able to design it this year and bid it in the spring and then construct it next year. Typically, it's a year to 18 months for design,” she said. “Typically, the steel deck ones are in the 60s to 70s era. So the steel decks just don't hold up typically in our climate. I mean, you get salt on tires that track over the top of them, so the girders start deteriorating pretty quickly right at the seam where the concrete stops, and those did. We've got a couple of them that are still left; this Colby Road is one of them.

“It’s actually going to be really interesting. I mean, that system that I was talking about hasn't been used yet in New York State, so whoever the first one is, is going to have a lot of people that are watching that, there's going to be other counties trying to see how this all fits together,” she said. “But there's a couple other counties looking at it for other bridges too. So we might not be the first.

"But they do it across the country, like I said, in Colorado. I've seen it on a bunch of presentations at the conferences that I've gone to, so it seems to work really, really well," she said. "So we're excited about it.”

The total capital project balance is $2,182,455.62 from 1% sales tax funds, and legislators approved her request not to exceed $129,800 for a consultant agreement with Barton and Loguidice in Rochester for the Colby Road Bridge. The request will go to the full Legislature for approval on May 28.

David Jeffery Pinkerton, 32, of Main Street, Le Roy, is charged with assault 2nd and criminal possession of a weapon with intent to use. Pinkerton is accused of fighting with two people at around 1:58 a.m. on May 18 in the parking lot of the 7-Eleven in Bergen. He allegedly caused physical injury to one person who was transported to UMMC with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument. He was held pending arraignment.

Kelly J. Mungo, 49, of East Main St., Batavia, is charged with tampering with physical evidence and criminal possession of controlled substance 7th. Mungo was arrested due to an investigation during a traffic stop on South Lake Road, Bergen, at 4:39 p.m. on May 5 by Deputy Jonathan Dimmig. She is accused of attempting to conceal cocaine and a crack pipe on her person. Mungo was held pending arraignment. Also charged,  Colleen M. Hutchinspon, 50, of Spring Street, Bergen, who was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell. Hutchinson was allegedly found in possession of cocaine. She was held pending arraignment. Also charged, Timothy L. Corcoran, 61, of Maple Street, Batavia, who was charged with conspiracy 4th and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Corcoran is accused of possessing cocaine and contributing to the commission of two Class B felonies. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Kurtis Rashod Washington, 34, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd. Washington is accused of possessing 23 grams of cocaine, enough to constitute intent to sell, during a probation home visit at 10:51 a.m. on May 5 on West Main Street Road, Batavia. He was transported to the Genesee County Jail and held without bail.

David R. Cook, no age or address provided, is charged with grand larceny 2nd and fostering the sale of stolen goods. Cook was arrested on April 25 following an investigation by Erik Andre and Deputy Nicholas Charmoun into thefts from Upstate Farms Culture Products at 5011 West Ag Park Drive, Batavia. Cook is accused of stealing property that belonged to Upstate over a six-month period and selling the property for financial gain. Cook allegedly stole more than $100,000 in goods. He was arraigned and released.

Heather McGinnis, 35, of Dublin Road, Bergen, is charged with assault 3rd. McGinnis was arrested following a report at 1:15 a.m. on April 17 of a disturbance at an address on Dublin Road. She is accused of biting another person. She was transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.

Terrance D. Barner, 36, of Park Road, Batavia, is charged with obstructing governmental administration 2nd. Barner is accused of failing to leave the Quality Inn and Suites after being ordered to leave by deputies at 9:07 p.m. on April 21. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Casandra L. Matson, 38, of Railroad Avenue, Silver Springs, and Del John Akin, 47, of North Main Street, Silver Springs, are charged with petit larceny and conspiracy 6th. Matson and Akin are accused of skip-scanning merchandise at Walmart at 4:04 p.m. on April 23. The defendants were transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.

Yulia Pityk, 24, of Silver Birch, Rochester, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and speeding. Yulia was stopped at 1:52 a.m. on April 25 on Route 33 in Bergen by Deputy Ryan Mullen. Pityk was released on tickets.

Cody James Nichols, 40, of Avenue A, Rochester, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Nichols was allegedly found in possession of cocaine at 4:22 p.m. on May 1 at a location on Apple Tree Avenue, Bergen, by Deputy Nicholas Chamoun.

Stephen Douglas Freeman, 54, of Conlon Road, Le Roy, is charged with felony DWI, aggravated unlicensed operation, driving with registration suspended, drinking alcohol in a motor vehicle, and driving without insurance. Freeman was stopped at 8:29 p.m. on May 2 on West Main Street Road, Batavia, by Deputy Zachary Hoy. Freeman was held for arraignment.

Jennifer Lynn Maher, 42, of Prole Road, Stafford, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, moving from lane unsafely, and no plate lamp. Maher was stopped at 1:24 a.m. on May 4 by Deputy Zachary Hoy on Clinton Street Road, Stafford. Maher was issued tickets and released.

Jason Joseph Meyer, 48, of West Avenue, Elba, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and following too closely. Meyer was stopped at 10:05 p.m. on April 18 on Veterans Memorial Drive by Deputy Alexander Hadsall. Meyer was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Dylan Michael DIbble, 29, of Pole Bridge Road, Avon, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, speeding, aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd, and driving left of pavement markings. Dibble was stopped at 2:08 a.m. on May 10 on Broadway Road, Bethany, by Sgt. Mathew Clor.

Thomas Howard Forbes, 58, no address provided, is charged with DWI and failure to stop at a stop sign. Forbes was stopped at 12:57 a.m. on May 18 on Park Road by Deputy Leah Bezon. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released on an appearance ticket.

Elba and Lyndonville met for the second time in four days on Monday, with Lyndonville coming out on top 10-7 in a game that went to extra innings.

Elba took an early lead in the second inning, scoring twice on a walk and an error. Lyndonville rallied in the sixth, putting up five runs on four hits, including a two-run double by Braelynn Dillenbeck, to move ahead 6-2.

Elba answered in the bottom of the sixth, scoring five runs of their own to reclaim the lead, 7-6. Bri Totten delivered a two-run single after a long at-bat to cap the rally.

Lyndonville tied the game in the seventh, taking advantage of an Elba error. In the ninth, Isabela Groves doubled to drive in the go-ahead run, and another error allowed Lyndonville to extend the lead to 10-7.

Brea Smith pitched all nine innings for Elba, allowing 12 hits and 10 runs (five earned) while striking out six and walking three. Arnie Sturtevant went the distance for Lyndonville, giving up seven hits and seven runs (three earned) with 11 strikeouts and six walks.

Maddie Hall and Bri Totten led Elba with two hits each. Totten and Lauren Hawkins both drove in two runs. Elba drew six walks and turned a double play on defense.

Lyndonville finished with 12 hits. Addison Dillenbeck and Isabela Groves each had three hits and two RBI. Elena Barry added two hits, while Dillenbeck stole five bases as Lyndonville totaled seven steals in the game.

Photos by Kristin Smith.

CORRECTION: The score and player/team affiliations have been corrected. The headline has been corrected.

Evan Fitzpatrick struck out 14 and allowed just one hit over seven innings to lead Notre Dame past Elba, earning the win in a 6-0 decision Monday. Fitzpatrick finished with no walks and three hit batters.

Elba’s Mason Vigiano took the loss, pitching four innings with seven strikeouts and two earned runs.

Nicholas Scott led Elba at the plate, going 1-for-3 with a double. 

For Notre Dame, Chase Antinore went 2-for-4 with a run. Fitzpatrick added a 2-for-4 performance with three runs scored and a double.

Coach Andrew Boyce of Elba credited Notre Dame’s preparation. 

“Hats off to Rick and his guys, they always are ready to play when it comes to Elba ND games,” Boyce said.

Boyce noted his team’s slow start. 

“I thought we came out of the gates a little flat today, and when you make a few mistakes against a team like that, they're gonna take advantage,” Boyce said.

Elba finishes the regular season on Tuesday before heading into sectionals. 

“The last regular season game is tomorrow, and it’s already sectional time after that. We need to be playing our best baseball right now. It’s go time,” Boyce said.

Photos by Kristin Smith

Press Release:

Please be advised that our team will be performing necessary repairs to both the water and sewer lines on Dellinger Avenue beginning Tuesday, May 20th.

Work is scheduled to commence shortly after 7:00 AM and will continue throughout the day until the repairs are completed. During this time, there is a strong possibility that road access will be limited or, in some areas, completely closed to through traffic in order to ensure the safety of the crew and the public.

Additionally, please be aware that there may be temporary disruptions to water service for properties located within or adjacent to the work zone. We recommend preparing in advance for the possibility of reduced water availability during the day. As always, when the water is restored it may be discolored.  Please refrain from doing any laundry until the water runs clear.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we carry out this important infrastructure work. Estimated time of completion is undetermined. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact our office at 585-345-6329.

The jury in the upcoming murder trial will want to know why Michael Poole, an Olcott resident, was shot in the head and his body was abandoned in the trunk of a car and left in the town of Alabama, District Attorney Kevin Finnell told Judge Melissa Lightcap Cianfrini in Gensee County Court on Monday morning.  

Casey F. Spencer, the defense attorney for Edward Dunn, the man accused of killing Poole, argued that many of the specific details Finnell wants to bring up at trial -- jury selection set to begin on June 6 -- are too prejudicial without much value to proving the guilt or innocence of her client.

Dunn, a former Lockport resident, is accused of killing Poole on March 17, 2024.

One of the prosecution witnesses is Kathryn Henry, Dunn's former girlfriend and a good friend of Poole. Finnell said he would need to explain to the jury why Henry did not immediately come forward and report the crime. Henry was initially charged with murder in the second degree in connection with Poole’s death. 

However, on August 22, Henry entered guilty pleas to two lesser charges: hindering prosecution (a Class D felony) and concealment of a human corpse (a Class E felony). She is no longer facing a murder charge. Henry is scheduled for sentencing in County Court on August 18.

The case that Finnell would like to present to the jury would include information about Dunn's prior criminal record and Dunn's alleged burglaries and attempted burglaries, as well as information that indicates Dunn has violent tendencies and that Henry feared for her safety.

That fear, Finnell argued, is why Henry did not come forward immediately after the alleged crime.

On March 27, 2024, Dunn, Poole, and Henry allegedly drove Barker intending to commit a burglary at a laundromat, but the "conditions," Finnell said, were not conducive to a burglary. Finnell indicated that Henry would testify that Poole warned Dunn to be more careful because people were becoming suspicious that he was involved in a series of burglaries. 

Finnell's theory of the case is that Dunn was motivated to allegedly kill Poole because he suspected Poole of telling people about the burglaries. 

He said Henry would also testify that in the short time they were a couple, Dunn said he had committed other violent crimes outside of New York State and she knew that he was facing a felony assault charge in Niagara County from December 2021.

According to Finnell, Henry would say, if permitted by Cianfrini, that Dunn owned a rifle that he always carried with him, and that weapon was the same rifle used to kill Poole. 

When Dunn was arrested by a parole officer, according to Finnell, he was found hiding in a crawl space of the residence he shared with another witness, Norman S. DuBois, and the rifle in question was also in that crawl space.

All of that is highly prejudicial, Spencer argued, to her client. 

Criminal evidence rules generally prohibit the introduction of criminal records and uncharged crimes in trials because the information is likely irrelevant to the case before the jury and could paint the defendant in a negative light. The jury is supposed to consider only the evidence relevant to the case before them.

Monday's hearing was based on case law, which provides standards for a judge to consider regarding the admissibility of prior offenses.

Spencer argued that there are other potential motivations for the crime available in the investigative record and the details of the alleged prior crimes are not necessarily needed to say that Henry feared Dunn.

Finnell argued that without the evidence he wishes to present, the jury would be left with a "blackhole" for the jury to understand the true nature of Henry's fear, and since only Dunn and Henry were reportedly in the car when Poole was murdered, they jury could easily wonder why Henry wasn't the actual killer.

Spencer also argued against revealing that Dunn was on parole at the time of his arrest.

Finnell said all these pieces of potential evidence are "woven into the fabric" of the case and can't be separated.  Henry's knowledge of the prior assault case goes to her state of mind when considering her options after the alleged murder, and the parole arrest and potential evidence uncovered in the search are critical to the case.

Cianfrini raised the issue with Spencer that the arrest parole officer would like to testify at trial, which would indicate that Dunn was on parole at the time of his arrest.

Spencer acknowledged that jurors could draw that conclusion based on the appearance of that specific witness, but it is unnecessary to tell jurors specifically that Dunn was on parole.

The 39-year-old Dunn is currently serving a 2 1/2 to 5-year prison sentence, assigned to Clinton Correctional Facility, for a prior and unrelated burglary in the third degree conviction in Orleans County.

Cianfrini will rule on today's motions prior to trial.

He is currently being held in Attica so that he is available to appear in Genesee County Court and to meet with his attorney as the case moves toward trial.

John Bolton graced a Le Roy High School stage many times 45 years ago, but he may never have beamed more joyfully than he did Sunday afternoon after receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award from his alma mater.

Bolton has done more than achieve success on Broadway and on television. Throughout his career, the New York City resident has given back to the community that nurtured him and gave him room to grow as an artist.

Bolton is an acclaimed performer who never forgot his roots.

“I am so grateful to you all," said Bolton, a 1980 graduate, "and I may not have found the arts in Brighton, a much bigger school district, and I was able to find it here, and it is largely because of this lady right here, Beth Ann Lambian Hooker.”

There were a couple of hundred Le Royans in attendance, many of whom he's known throughout his life—teachers, mentors, friends, classmates, and the students he's helped guide through Le Roy's award-winning musical theater program.

During his acceptance speech, Bolton noted that he's often asked, "What's your favorite role?" He said he always answers, "The next one."

He was grateful, he said, to be honored at a time when he's still looking forward to his next role.

“I’m so glad you’re doing this now, and not, you know, after I’m gone,” he said, smiling.

BethAnn Hooker, Bolton’s former music teacher, expressed her gratitude for Bolton's consistent support of the students coming up through the program behind him.

“The COVID shutdown was so devastating, but you sparked inspiration in a moment when there was uncertainty," Hooker said. "Thank you for showing up to the production of Chicago. You're coming and speaking to the students, the inspiring words that you said -- your words matter, your time matters, and you know that, and you’re so humble in how you approach everything you do. We are so grateful. I am grateful for your commitment and for your inspiration.”

The event was lively from the start, punctuated by laughter, applause, and a palpable sense of community pride.

Master of Ceremonies Nathan Yauchzee and Evan Williams welcomed the crowd and set the tone for an afternoon focused on Bolton’s career and his ongoing connection to Le Roy.

The program featured a medley of Broadway numbers from Bolton’s repertoire, performed by alumni Jack Diskin, Haily Grasso, Suzanne Scott, Andrew Tomidy, Evan Williams, Nathan Yauchzee, and current senior Aubrey Puccio.

The musical tribute brought Broadway energy and polish to the Le Roy stage.

Speakers throughout the afternoon shared stories that highlighted Bolton’s generosity, humor, and commitment to giving back.

Millie Tomidy-Pepper, a classmate and close friend, recounted his early struggles and determination.

“John’s initial attempts to secure performing roles in seventh and eighth grade didn’t produce the results he had hoped for," Tomidy-Pepper recalled. "However, those disappointments pushed him to reach deeper and try, try again. By his senior year in 1980, he had earned the coveted role of the Scarecrow in the Le Roy High School musical, The Wiz. That experience confirmed his passion for the performing arts, and from then on, acting became his life’s passion, one stage and one role at a time.”

Tomidy-Pepper described Bolton’s generosity, recalling how he arranged for students in Le Roy’s Curtains production to receive personal phone calls from their Broadway counterparts.

“This is only one of the shining examples of John’s generosity and selflessness," she said. "John has consistently taken the time to share his time and talent, and has encouraged countless aspiring performing arts students to continue working towards their dreams.”

Hooker shared memories of his early performances and his willingness to help others.

She recalled Bolton’s memorable audition and performance as the Scarecrow in “The Wiz,” highlighting his dedication and comedic timing.

“Auditions happened, and it came down to about four young men who could all sing, dance and act the part beautifully of the Scarecrow. I had to find a way to break the tie, and the Scarecrow had to fall off a small stand about two feet high after being attached to a trellis. Each young man and when released by Dorothy, they were all to fall down, but they saved themselves as they fell, except for John, of course, one arm was released, then the other, and before his arm even got to his side, John fell to the floor as if there wasn’t a bone in his body, just the pile of straw is to say they got departed in the fall of 1980.”

Bolton had a lively sense of humor, Hooker said.

“In 1979, John played Junior Babcock in Mame," she said. "One of my favorite lines was when Mame (played by Suzanne Scott) called him that Son of a Baker Babcock. John decided to add what he thought a college boy would do in his scene with Mame’s nephew, Patrick Dennis. He pulled out a Playboy magazine and held it open to the centerfold. I rose from the pit and almost kicked him from the stage, not so much for the magazine itself, but the fact that Playboy wasn’t even published until 1953, and this was the 1930s. Sorry, I always tried to be time-period correct, if I could. I think John thought it would be a funny bit, until he saw my face in that reaction. I can laugh about him now, but then…”

Hooker described how Bolton returned to Le Roy after graduation to help with junior high productions, choreographing scenes and even writing original plays for the school.

"How very lucky am I? Of all the gin joints, excuse me, I mean, high schools, in all the world, LHS can claim that this talented, incredibly humble gentleman started here,” Hooker said.

Holly Valentine, director of education for the Rochester Broadway Theater League, reminded the attendees that Bolton's impact isn't just local. It's regional.

“He inspires everyone around him, particularly the next generation of performers," Valentine said. "I am here today, not only as his friend, but as a voice for Rochester Broadway Theater League, where for close to 10 years he has been a key member of our Stars in Tomorrow program where he is guiding, influencing and encouraging students from the Greater Rochester region and all over New York State. It’s incredible to watch his work as he mentors so many students with immense generosity, truth, kindness and love.”

Village of Le Roy trustees Bill Kettle and Jim Bonacquisti formalized the recognition by presenting Bolton with a proclamation and the village key.

The proclamation recognized Bolton’s accomplishments on and off Broadway, national tours, television work, and selfless contributions to generations of Le Roy theater students. The village board declared May 18, 2025, John Bolton Day in Le Roy.

Bolton’s remarks at the ceremony's end captured his gratitude and trademark humor.

“I grew up in Brighton the first 10 years of my life, and they said, ‘Hey, we’re moving to this town called Le Roy, but you’ll love it. It’s a beautiful town.’ I was really mad," he recalled. "I loved our schools in Brighton. I loved the diversity, I loved the arts, and I came here grudgingly. Well, after about two days here, I fell in love with it, and have remained in deep love with this beautiful town ever since, its scenic beauty, its rich history and its people.”

He credited the community for nurturing his talent and spirit.

“It truly takes a village. I have wonderful upperclassmen who are so cool and kind to me…so many neighbors," Bolton said. "There was a wonderful woman who worked with my dad at the bank, Mary Wright, who was extremely kind to me and supportive. I want to mention the support I received over the years in wonderful notes along the way and private, wonderful conversations from the great Nancy Baker, my late, dear, hilarious, genius friend, Jan Howard, Sherry Boylan, who remains one of my best friends to this day.”

Bolton’s gratitude extended to the teachers and mentors who shaped his journey.

“I may not have found the arts in Brighton, a much bigger school district, and I was able to find it here, and it is largely because of this lady right here, Beth Ann Lambian Hooker.”

Bolton teased his former classmates, Bonacquisti and Tomidy-Pepper, quoting from freshman-year annuals. The notes his classmates provided new punchlines for Bolton's remarks.

Quoting Bonacquisti’s playful message: “John, you’re such a slob, but you’re a great guy. Don’t ever change.”

He then turned to Pepper Tomidy’s advice, reading her words: “John, it’s been fun having you in class. Watch out for the girls next year -- they’ll be after you!”

He noted, too, the sign-off she wrote in the yearbook, "'I know someday I'm going to see you' -- and this was underlined -- 'on Broadway.'"

Bolton's acceptance speech included many memories of Le Roy. Clearly, his love for Le Roy, especially the Le Roy of his youth, never waned.

He recalled, "making the bank my playground on weekends for $1 an hour to empty waste baskets and shred the neverending stack of print out statements in the basement; working at Super Duper, where I hated being a stock boy and begged them to let me be the first male check out boy -- and they let me! Working as a bank teller with great people at that little branch inside the Ben Franklin and watching the wonderful Canali family buzzing around, running a wonderful business. Roller skating parties at Holy Family. Bike riding the back roads. Kick the can with East Main kids; skateboarding on our perfectly sloped driveway; sledding the big hills of the Le Roy Country Club; tennis with friends at Stafford; the enormous shrimp at George Peck’s Meat Market, 'Where friends meet for meat;' Ice cream at Genesee Farms, the meatball sub at Pizzaland, the sauce at the Casino. Wonderful memories, but it’s all really about the families who welcomed me with open arms. They set extra places at dinner for me, arranged sleepovers, and chauffeured me all around.”

Bolton ended with heartfelt gratitude to his friends and the community that once again showed up to see him grace a Le Roy stage.

"Thank you all for the home you were during those wonderful years way back then," Bolton said. "For the home you found (for) me in performing arts, and for the home you will always have in my heart. Thank you for the love you've shown me then and now, and thank you all for being my family. I love you all. I'm very grateful."

With a bio that shares how she uses humor at the heart of her storytelling to encourage, inspire and heal, commencement speaker Kate Welshofer had a lot on her plate Saturday during Genesee Community College’s 57th annual graduation ceremony.

It’s fair to say the Western New York native — a former television news anchor, reporter and producer who made an abrupt shift after 27 years to pursue a more creative path with the National Comedy Center — did not disappoint.

At the crux of her message was for graduates to locate their innermost free spirits and act accordingly.

“In the grand scheme of things, it's pretty easy to create an existence that looks good on paper, good grades, great internships, decent jobs, respectable salaries, prestigious awards and on and on and on. But how does it all feel in here? Where is your heart in all of it? When it comes to answering that question, I highly recommend consulting your inner weirdo. That little voice inside that makes you sometimes, maybe a lot of times, makes you feel like you have no idea what you're doing,” she said at the Richard C. Call Arena. “I will tell you I tried to mute mine for a long time, but she is incredibly persistent. The little weirdo in all of us can be a great guide. It is filled with very unique magic that is all yours. 

"It is the best of you, trust it. It will carry you. And I know, because mine has carried and continues to carry and sometimes pushes me," she said. "Whether you realize it or not, your inner weirdo got you here. It has already helped you carve your unique place in this world, and it will continue to help you build what will be your life and eventually your legacy.”

She also cautioned them against rushing these fleeting moments, which are already fleeting enough. Along the lines of stopping to smell the roses, she suggested that they “celebrate, exhale, relax, and enjoy.” 

Society seems to have a way of wanting to know “what’s next” after one reaches a milestone such as graduation, in a dash to find out what plans are in store for the next chapter. Welshofer encouraged these students, whom she addressed as scholars, as did her professor father, to take a pause for this special time before pressing onward with life’s demands.

“Often there’s pressure to do more and do better,” she said, sharing her father’s philosophy. “He saw education not as a means to an end, but as an opportunity. His approach to life was with a sense of whimsy and wonder. He was always asking questions, always.”

He taught her lessons outside of the classroom, including that life didn’t have to be taken so seriously; a little levity can go a long way to connect people, she said.

That’s advice she has apparently incorporated on her way to becoming an award-winning writer, speaker, content creator, owner of Welshofer Creative LLC, columnist, and more recently author of her book “You Monster! (That’s a Compliment),” released in December 2024, with a second one in the works.

Her father perhaps best demonstrated his devilish humor by listing a three-letter alleged degree on his bio in the GCC catalog. Tickled with himself, he flipped open the newly printed publication and showed her the page. After she gave up on what the letters S.F.B. stood for, he told her: Short, Fat, Bald. They each got a laugh out of that, though mom didn’t seem as pleased, Welshofer said.

“The things that make us us, those are the things that matter,” she said, asking that everyone lightly wrap their arms around themselves in a hug and close their eyes. “If no one has ever told you this before, you are the most wonderful miracle to anyone who has or will have the great pleasure of knowing you. Cherish this moment and all it took to get you here, knowing that you are and always have been, in good hands, yours. 

"Give a little squeeze. Trust yourselves, trust your instincts. Trust that your joy, if you let it, will pull you in the direction of your very greatest potential," she said. "Whatever you do, don't let the what-if steal the infinite joy to be found in what already is.”

Being president of the Academic Senate and history professor at GCC has earned Charles Scruggs a continuing place at the podium, and this year he talked about learning the difference between gorillas and guerrillas. That early lesson led him down a path of seeking answers and unlocking one of the best gifts life has to offer: tuning into news and songs that aired on his blue portable Panasonic radio given to him by his parents in the early 1970s, he said.

The radio was a reward gift for his persistent spirit of finding out all he could about the five “gorillas” he had first heard about on the car radio with his folks and sister. They had taken over an airplane, and he couldn’t believe that the hairy animals would do that and was perplexed as to why. His dad, a teacher, used it for learning moments to define the difference between those creatures and the people who had hijacked a plane.

Scruggs had just turned 5, and his fascination with all that emitted from the radio grew after receiving his own device, he said.

“I held the magic of Marconi in the palm of my hand, and thanks to the miracle of my opposable thumbs, I could now dial in with an endless array of pop songs, live sporting events and business reports and pump up the volume or turn it down, as my heart desired. Even with my limited life experience, a lot of what I heard coming through that speaker spoke loud and clear and made a good deal of intuitive sense,” he said. “You don't tug on Superman’s cape, you don't spit into the wind, you don't pull the mask off the Lone Ranger, and you don't mess around with Jim. I've come to think of these as the four noble truths of the late great Jim Croce.”

He waxed nostalgic as he took students on a trip to his childhood and back again, sharing bits and pieces of what he learned on the “racetrack of life” and how not to let it become an inevitable hamster wheel.

A few tips to keep in mind:

• One, tap into the power of stories to instruct and inspire, using material that you know best, such as family.
• Two, thank the people who are there to support you and cheer you on as you navigate the racetrack of life.
• And three, run the race that allows your unique gifts to breathe. In other words, love what you’re doing rather than merely pursuing the big paycheck and material wealth.

As for his love of that little blue radio, it helped him to literally — and figuratively — discern the right direction for his own path while not losing a beat.

“It trained me to find the signal amidst the noise,” he said. “So, graduates, please follow my lead. Be sure to thank mom and dad and as you sturdy your ships and prepare to set sail from what is now the safe harbor of your alma mater, it is our hope at GCC that you make your own kind of music and sing your own special song. You can count on us to listen.”

GCC Foundation President Scott Gardner presented a posthumous Alpha Medal of Service award to Gillian Romano, wife of the late Russ Romano, who died in July 2024.

“This prestigious award is the highest honor bestowed by the Genesee Community College Foundation,” Gardner said. “It recognizes individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary volunteer service and generous philanthropic support.”

Russ Romano served on the Foundation’s board of directors for 20 years, including two years as president, and also held leadership roles on the housing board of directors, stewardship committee and development committee.

"Through this work, Russ has guided others in strengthening the college's programs, mobilizing community support for capital initiatives, and making high-quality facilities available to students. Russ led by example and had engaged generously and selflessly with his financial resources in support of Foundation projects and created and funded the Russell and Gillian Romano scholarship to assist deserving students in their educational pursuits at GCC,” Gardner said. “Russ was deeply committed to the preservation and growth of our local communities.”

Romano was a founder of Genesee Cancer Assistance and an enthusiastic supporter of the community, and exemplified the “highest standards of volunteer service and inspired all those around him with his loyalty, commitment and honesty,” he said.

Le Roy walked off with a 3-2 extra-innings win over Dansville on Sunday, capping a tense pitchers’ duel with a single from Jagger Smith in the bottom of the ninth.

Alex Spezzano went the distance for Le Roy, allowing no walks and striking out six while scattering eight hits. Dansville’s Nolan DeZorn pitched eight strong innings, striking out 14 and giving up seven hits.

Le Roy struck early. Spezzano led off the game with a single, advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt by Brady McClurg, and scored when Adam Woodworth and Jake Higgins hit back-to-back doubles for a 2-0 lead.

Dansville responded in the third. Jake Kreiley was hit by a pitch, and the Mustangs followed with four consecutive hits. Carson Mays drove in a run with an RBI single, and the tying run scored on an error. Le Roy left fielder Jude Sherman ended the threat with a diving catch, leaving the bases loaded.

In the ninth, Austin Cordaro singled with one out, moved to second on a passed ball, and advanced to third on a sacrifice bunt by Jude Christ. Smith then delivered the game-winning RBI single on the first pitch he saw.

Le Roy improved to 14-3 and will finish the regular season Monday night at Livonia.

Photos by Leslie Higgins

Andre' Miller, owner of Zoom n' Groom, along with assistants, was parked outside the Genesee County Animal Shelter on Sunday afternoon, trimming the nails of dogs as a fundraiser for the Volunteers for Animals.

Submitted photos.