Le Roy

Rochelle “Shelley” Stein’s opponent for the District 5 Genesee County legislator seat has said there is a disconnect between Stein and her Le Roy constituents, and The Batavian asked if she knew why or how she would address it.

The way Stein sees it, there was a tie at the Le Roy Republican Committee, resulting in a non-endorsement, and another non-endorsement at the county level, which means a Primary, she said. She is running against newcomer Laurie Mancuso for the District 5 seat on the Genesee County Legislature.

“And this is the democratic process, and I welcome the opportunity to confirm for folks that I'm doing the work that I was elected to do as the county legislator from Le Roy,” she said. “Some of the things that I can absolutely point to are the direct county investments in Le Roy, and that being a multi-year subsidy contract with Le Roy Ambulance so that we can lessen response time and maintain a robust EMS system here in Le Roy that also can respond in the county. We purchased equipment for Le Roy Ambulance for $185,000, and that puts life-saving equipment on those ambulances.

“We also have invested in the high-speed broadband available to all address points, and those investments improve the quality of life in Le Roy,” she said. “And just today, I know that Spectrum has been calling on folks on Thwing Road and North Road, and Griswold Road is on its way. These direct investments are incredibly important to people here in Le Roy.”

Stein said that she is a positive force working for Le Roy, and however other candidates want to campaign, “I am going to stick by what I have done, what I've brought forward of my work and my responsibilities at the county,” she said.

One bone of contention appears to be the sales tax agreement, which was discussed beginning in 2018 and approved on August 25, 2021. The deal capped sales tax distribution at $10 million for the city of Batavia, towns and villages within the county. Ever since, there have apparently been concerns and complaints by town board officials — a few of whom have spoken during county budget talks — and it was shared with Stein as “the crux” of issues with her reelection, she said.

“I’m very proud of the fact that this Legislature takes a long view on capital investments that have to be made, such as the jail and the change to the sales tax agreement that was done. The jail belongs to everybody here in the community, and this is what the county needed to do. It was a difficult decision to come to. It was difficult for legislators. It was difficult for our communities,” she said. “The county Legislature took the stance that when we could share extra, we would, as far as additional revenue distribution, and we actually did that twice. So we did what we said we were going to do.”

The deal was a way to pay off the state-mandated and unfunded $70 million new county jail, Stein said. By capping sales tax distribution, the county was able to reserve $4 million a year for the jail’s debt service.

“I don’t know how that was misconstrued, let me put it that way,” she said. “I’m the only candidate who has any sort of county experience or municipal experience, and I will continue to represent Le Roy in a positive manner.”

The sales tax agreement is for 40 years to match the jail’s debt service, she said. And it didn’t just happen.

“Conversations were had for three years ahead of this. There was a lot of conversation and explanation from the county, including the county manager and the county treasurer. However, this jail did not have any funding stream available from the state. There are no grants,” she said. “It is a requirement by the state of New York to replace this 100-plus-year-old jail, which, quite frankly, other legislatures had kicked down the road. We didn’t have any options left. So you stand up and you do the difficult tasks at hand, and you take the criticisms at the same time.”

As for Stein being elected as the county Legislature’s chairwoman, a two-year term she has consecutively served since 2020, she believes that has only bolstered her position both as a legislator and representative of Le Roy. 

Although her opponent has openly questioned whether it’s a distraction from her District 5 duties, Stein said she thinks “a strength the community would want to have in their elected leader is that other legislators have tapped me to be chair … that shows that there is a trust and a value that other legislators put in me.”

She also shared how her position as chair connects her to opportunities that she in turn communicates to her district officials.

“Just this week … I have shared with both our mayor and supervisor, village clerk and town clerk about the Rochester Area Community Foundation. They are targeting grants for rural communities this year, and I have been in touch with (a key official), asking that I can host a conversation in the county, I would prefer that it would be in Le Roy, of course, or somewhere close to Le Roy, where we can have them come in and talk to us specifically about how these grants are going to work, what the application deadline is, understand the mission of the Rochester Area Foundation, why they are targeting rural towns and villages in Genesee and Orleans County, And what the grant would look like on the front end and the reporting process on the back end.

“Gov. Hochul just announced $100 million available for municipal and not-for-profit community centers. So I again sent this off to both the town clerk, village clerk, the village mayor and the town supervisor because I know that there is an interest in revamping the community pool,” she said. “Then this same week, the consolidated funding application workshop was noted and, again, sent that off, and the GCEDC hosted a meeting for a workshop … so these communications I continue to share these opportunities with both the town and village because when I get these opportunities, sharing them is the best way to keep communication going, and the opportunity for our communities to apply to these grants.”

She added that for the past two years, the county has budgeted for each town and village to obtain up to $5,000  for grant-writing services — a way to bring back our taxpayers’ dollars in the state government to work in their communities, she said, and “all very positive.”

If you were reelected, what do you feel are the needs of Le Roy, and what would be your priorities?

Completion of the 2050 Comprehensive Plan
“That is really going to help us determine how we address challenges in our 10 focus areas,” she said, including the latest one of community wellness to address a lack of beds for end-of-life care; how to get communication out to seniors and sufficiently connect them to services and common tools they can use when not familiar with email and websites.

Obtain the total funding for the $150 million Phase 3 water capacity project
“The impetus of that focus for myself was the fact that we lost out in Le Roy on the Great Lakes Cheese plant, which would have brought hundreds of jobs to our community, and would have been able to help grow our community,” she said. “And that was in 2022 when we lost that opportunity for that economic development project, that really kick-started the focus on getting Phase 3 water capacity, and I have been diligent, committed, laser focused. 

"I have been the one who has the networks with our state and federal funding entities, our engineering folks, our water engineering folks," she said. "Tim Hens said it best: ‘this was the first time that they felt support from the Legislature to really buckle down and knuckle in on this water capacity.’ So that all started from a project that Le Roy lost.”

Initiate a land bank
To help renovate dilapidated homes, get them out of bank holdings and bring them back onto the tax rolls, put those homes back into homeowners’ hands.

The role of the Legislature chair is elected by the other legislators. Stein said that she would serve again if asked to do so by the other members, adding that “there is a lot of work that is unseen.”

For example, she is or has been involved in the Genesee Regional Transportation Council, which funds some bridge projects; the Genesee Regional Finger Lakes Planning Council that works on the comprehensive plan for the village of Le Roy; and three different committees that cover environment, agriculture and resources, and intergovernmental issues. 

She is on the National Association of Counties board, Ag Committee, the Rural Action Caucus, a liaison for Workforce Investment Board, Office For the Aging Advisory Board, Inter-county of Western New York, Genesee 2050 Comprehensive Plan, and GLOW Works Inc.

On a more personal note, Stein also volunteers and serves at Our Lady of Mercy as an Eucharistic Minister and Lector, has been a trustee of the Le Roy parish for 12 years, and has taught catechism doctrine classes for seven years. She was a 30-year volunteer at the Oatka Festival and was part of the Bergen and Le Roy America’s Best Communities grant program, which earned those municipalities a $25,000 economic development plan.

Her 70-year family farm has grown and raised a second generation of ownership, she said, with now its third generation “being interested, being active in agriculture, growing a farm and continuing on with farming,” Stein said. The current owners are her two children, Jerrod and Natasha, and her nephew, Nathaniel, while Stein remains involved as an employee. There have been some accusations of the relationship between her official position and Stein Farms having received grant money in the past.

“I don’t have ownership in the farm. Any grant awarded to the farm is competitive,” she said. “There is no connection to the county; nobody has that amount of reach.”

She stated that her voting record can be verified, and the only potential conflict of interest she recalled was related to a conservation easement. She left the meeting while the remaining legislators discussed the matter and took any related votes. The Batavian did not have time to review her prior voting records before publication.

Why do you believe you deserve the vote for District 5 legislator?
“Because I am steadfast here in Le Roy. I have experience in local government,” Stein said. “I learned what it was like as a town supervisor for eight years and now in the Legislature, that foundation of municipal experience has brought me to a place where I am knowledgeable, I am tested, proven, and I'm trustworthy. That's why I deserve people's votes.”

Early voting for this year's Primary begins at 9 a.m. Saturday at the Arc Community Center, 38 Woodrow Road, Batavia.

Dominic J. Dyer, 20, of Batavia, was arrested May 19 and charged with assault 2nd and endangering the welfare of a child. Dyer allegedly punched another person multiple times in the presence of a child during a fight on Liberty Street. He was also charged with strangulation 2nd and harassment 2nd in connection with a separate incident on April 20 on East Main Street, where Dyer allegedly strangled another person during a fight in the parking lot of the Mobil gas station. Dyer was arraigned in CAP Court.

Jadeyn R. Goras, 22, of Alabama, was arrested May 15 and charged with burglary 2nd, conspiracy 4th, criminal mischief 4th, and criminal facilitation 4th. Goras was charged in connection with a burglary on Hutchins Street on Jan. 12. He was arraigned in CAP Court and is due in Batavia City Court at a later date.

Anthony A. Bomasuto, 31, of Batavia, was arrested May 18 and charged with burglary 2nd and criminal contempt 2nd. Bomasuto allegedly entered the victim’s residence in violation of an order of protection. He was arraigned in CAP Court and remanded to Genesee County Jail.

Lakeisha A. Gibson, 38, of Batavia, was arrested May 19 and charged with criminal contempt 1st. Gibson allegedly violated an order of protection. She was arraigned in Batavia City Court and remanded to Genesee County Jail.

Meaghan A. Conti, 38, of Rochester, was arrested May 27 and charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Conti was allegedly found in possession of narcotics while being arrested on an unrelated warrant. She was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released under supervision.

Gary A. Rhim, 64, of Albion, was arrested May 29 and charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Rhim was allegedly found in possession of narcotics during a traffic stop on Aug. 12, 2024. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released.

Elise C. Maddox, 31, of Batavia, was arrested May 31 as a fugitive from justice. Maddox was located during a traffic stop and taken into custody on a warrant out of Gwinnett County, Georgia. She was arraigned and remanded to Genesee County Jail to await extradition.

Jacalyn J. Klein, 66, of Batavia, was arrested May 30 on a warrant. Klein was initially charged with harassment 2nd after an incident on East Main Street where she allegedly struck another person. The warrant was issued after she failed to appear in court. She was arraigned in CAP Court and is due in Batavia City Court at a later date.

William D. Gamble, Nefetiria L. Turner, Passiona C. McConnell, and Anthony J. Terry were arrested on May 27 and charged with disorderly conduct. The arrests followed an investigation into a fight on South Main Street. All four were issued appearance tickets and released.

Joey A. Evans, 34, of Batavia, was arrested May 29 and charged with harassment 2nd. Evans allegedly threatened another person during an altercation on Jackson Street. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Alicia M. Lyons, 45, of Batavia, was arrested May 26 and charged with trespass. Lyons allegedly went onto the property of a business on Jackson Street where she had previously been trespassed. She was issued an appearance ticket and released. Lyons was also arrested May 12 and charged with harassment 2nd after allegedly threatening another person during an altercation on West Main Street. She was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Justine D. Wood, 38, of Batavia, and Austin A. Heideman, 27, of Batavia, were arrested May 23 and charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Wood and Heideman were charged following a traffic stop on West Main Street, where they were allegedly found in possession of narcotics. Both were issued appearance tickets and released.

Thomas J. Claffey, Lisa R. Richmond, and Carl T. Amesbury were arrested May 22 and charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. The three were charged following a traffic stop and K9 deployment on River Street, where they were allegedly found in possession of narcotics. Richmond was additionally charged with criminal use of drug paraphernalia 2nd, and Amesbury was additionally charged with tampering with physical evidence. All three were issued appearance tickets and released. Claffey was also arrested May 12 and charged with DWI after allegedly being found intoxicated and sleeping at the wheel of a vehicle. He was issued several traffic tickets and is due in court May 27.

Amanda M. Garcia, 30, of Brockport, was arrested May 21 and charged with driving while ability impaired by drugs. Garcia was charged after a traffic stop on East Main Street. She was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Dennis R. Peters, 68, of Batavia, was arrested May 20 and charged with menacing 2nd. Peters allegedly threatened another person with a metal pipe during an argument on West Main Street. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released. He is due back in court June 18.

Brandon M. Kirby, 32, of Batavia, was arrested May 18 and charged with criminal mischief 4th. Kirby allegedly took a cell phone from the victim in an attempt to prevent them from calling 911 during a domestic dispute. He was arraigned in CAP Court and released.

Anthony G. Cicoria, 56, of Caledonia, was arrested May 20 and charged with petit larceny. Cicoria allegedly stole a cowboy hat from the 7-Eleven on East Main Street. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Benjamin A. Rachow, 42, of East Bethany, was arrested May 12 and charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Rachow allegedly had contact with the protected party of an order of protection. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Dawn Orlando, 55, of Batavia, was arrested and charged with offering a false instrument for filing 1st, grand larceny 4th, and welfare fraud 4th. Orlando is accused of failing to report money received from babysitting, friends, and access to cash app accounts, which allegedly resulted in her receiving $2,257.50 in public assistance benefits she was not entitled to. The charges stem from an investigation by Genesee County Social Services Investigator Sherri Sibley. Orlando was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on her own recognizance.

Michelle Mault, 39, of Corfu, was arrested and charged with welfare fraud 3rd, grand larceny 3rd, and two counts of offering a false instrument for filing, all felonies, as well as welfare fraud 5th, a misdemeanor. Mault allegedly failed to report income from employment, resulting in a SNAP overpayment of $3,705 and a HEAP overpayment of $441. The charges follow an investigation by Social Services Investigator Robert Riggi. Mault was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on her own recognizance with a return date.

Joseph M. Tornabene, 33, of Batavia, was arrested June 5 and charged with criminal contempt 1st. Tornabene allegedly violated an order of protection by calling the protected party while incarcerated at the Genesee County Jail. He was arraigned in CAP Court and is scheduled to return to Batavia Town Court at a later date.

Mary A. Virgilio, 50, of Batavia, was arrested June 5 and charged with harassment 2nd. Virgilio allegedly punched the victim in the face following a verbal altercation on State Street Road in the Town of Batavia. She was transported to Genesee County Jail and is due to appear in CAP Court on June 6.

Timothy J. Wenzel, of Batavia, was arrested June 1 and charged with four counts of forcible touching. Wenzel is accused of inappropriately touching another employee on four separate occasions at his place of employment, without the employee’s consent. He was held at Genesee County Jail pending arraignment in CAP Court.

Mary L. Seekins, 35, of Le Roy, was arrested June 8 and charged with aggravated DWI (operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .18% or higher), DWI, moving from lane unsafely, and leaving the scene of a property damage accident. Seekins was charged following an investigation into a property damage accident on West Bergen Road in Bergen, where she allegedly drove off the road and struck several trees. She was released on traffic tickets and is scheduled to appear in Bergen Town Court on July 2 at 5 p.m..

Press Release:

Two projects submitted to the Genesee County Economic Development Center are projected to generate $9 million in community benefits.

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) board of directors advanced an initial resolution at its June 5 meeting for HP Hood LLC’s 7,722 sq. ft. facility expansion at the Genesee Valley Agri Business Park.

HP Hood LLC’s $25 million investment will include the construction of a two-bay, raw milk silo alcove and silo pads for four silos, Clean-in-Place (CIP) room for four CIP systems, remote truck testing lab and electrical room. The expansion will enable HP Hood to increase capacity and boost dairy product production.

HP Hood LLC is requesting a sales tax exemption estimated at $1.12 million and a property tax abatement estimated at approximately $84,097 based on the incremental increase in assessed value via a new traditional 10-year PILOT. The project is estimated to generate $6.3 million in financial benefits, including payroll and tax revenues, for an estimated $10 local benefit for every $1 of requested incentives.

A public hearing on the proposed project agreements will be held in the town of Batavia.

The board of directors also approved a final resolution for Ivy Village Corp.’s proposed $3.5 million construction of 20 units of market-rate patio homes in the Village of LeRoy. The project will add 24,960 sq. ft as part of a planned three-phase, 60-unit development on 16 acres.

Ivy Village Corp. requested a sales tax exemption estimated at $168,000, a mortgage tax exemption estimated at $28,000, and a property tax abatement estimated at $669,440 based on the incremental increase in assessed value via a 20-year PILOT. The project is estimated to generate $2.7 million in local fiscal impacts, including payroll and tax revenues, for an estimated $4 local benefit for every $1 of requested incentives.

Press Release:

The Genesee County Office for the Aging has released its Farmers’ Market Coupon Distribution Schedule for the month of July.

For residents living in senior housing, a flyer will be posted at each location announcing the specific date the Office for the Aging will be on-site.

Community Distribution Schedule:

Tuesday, July 1 - Office for the Aging, 2 Bank St., Batavia, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Saturday, July 5 - Le Roy Farmers’ Market, Trigon Park, Le Roy, 9 to 11 a.m.

Tuesday, July 8 - Genesee Country Farmers’ Market, Between Center and Jackson Street, Batavia, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Thursday, July 10 - Office for the Aging, 2 Bank St., Batavia, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Friday, July 11 - Genesee Country Farmers’ Market, Between Center and Jackson Street, Batavia, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Tuesday, July 15 - Bergen Harvest Market, 1 Hickory Way, Hickory Park, Bergen, 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Wednesday, July 16 - Office for the Aging, 2 Bank St., Batavia, 2 to 4 p.m.

Friday, July 18 - Genesee Country Farmers’ Market, Between Center and Jackson Street, Batavia, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Saturday, July 19 - Le Roy Farmers’ Market, Trigon Park, Le Roy, 9 to 11 a.m.

Friday, July 25 - Genesee Country Farmers’ Market, Between Center and Jackson Street, Batavia, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Monday, July 28 - Office for the Aging, 2 Bank St., Batavia, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Monday, July 28 - Corfu Farmers’ Market, Corfu Presbyterian Church Parking Lot, 4 to 6 p.m.

Thursday, July 31 - Office for the Aging, 2 Bank St., Batavia, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Josh Hawkins and Philip Casper performed at Tracy B's Farmhouse and Brewery on Friday evening in Le Roy.  The duo plays on weekends throughout Genesee County and travels around Western New York.  Click here for information on future gigs. 

After pulling a larger $120 million expansion project off the table in September 2024, HP Hood officials are pursuing another, albeit smaller, project at the Batavia Agri-Business Park, per a request made to Genesee County’s Economic Development Center board.

HP Hood LLC has proposed a $25 million facility expansion that includes the construction of a two-bay raw milk silo alcove and silo pads for four silos, a Clean-in-Place (CIP) room for four CIP systems, a remote truck testing lab, and an electrical room. The expansion will enable HP Hood to increase capacity and boost dairy product production, officials said.

The board will consider a related resolution during its meeting at 4 p.m. Thursday at the MedTech Center’s Innovation Zone, 99 MedTech Drive, Batavia. If approved, a future public hearing on the project will be scheduled in the town of Batavia.

Hood had altered course a year ago after being notified that permitting was not approved by the city of Batavia for a 32,500 square-foot addition due to a wastewater disagreement and capacity issue between the city and town of Batavia. 

The plan was said to create 48 new jobs and have a local economic impact of nearly $50 million in wages and tax revenue.

Although an agreement was in place by September, Lynne Bohan, Vice President of Communications & Government Affairs at Hood's group, confirmed that the project was no longer being moved forward at that time, labeling it a “tactical pause on the expansion projects in progress.”

She also said that the company would consider future projects for the 7,722-square-foot facility at the Agri-Business Park.

The current $20 million proposed expansion includes a sales tax exemption request estimated at $1,122,394 and a property tax abatement estimated at $84,097, based on the incremental increase in assessed value via a new traditional 10-year PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes). 

The project is estimated to generate $6.3 million in local fiscal impacts, including payroll and tax revenues, for an estimated $10 local benefit for every $1 of requested incentives.

During Thursday's meeting, the EDC board of directors will also consider a final resolution for Ivy Village Corp.’s proposed $3.5 million construction of 20 units of market-rate patio homes in the Village of LeRoy. The project would add 24,960 sq. ft as part of a planned three-phase, 60-unit development on 16 acres.
 
Ivy Village Corp. is requesting a sales tax exemption estimated at $168,000, a mortgage tax exemption estimated at $28,000, and a property tax abatement estimated at $669,440 based on the incremental increase in assessed value via a 20-year PILOT. The project is estimated to generate $2.7 million in local fiscal impacts, including payroll and tax revenues, for an estimated $4 local benefit for every $1 of requested incentives.
 
Meeting materials and links to a live stream/on-demand recording of the meeting are available at www.gcedc.com.

Le Roy rallied from an early two-run deficit and walked off with a 3-2 win over Wayland-Cohocton in eight innings on Thursday in the Class B semifinal.

Wayland-Cohocton jumped ahead in the second inning. Matt Clark led off with a single, Owen Wolfanger drew a walk, and after a sacrifice bunt by Tony Schrimer, Hayden Wolfanger singled in a run. Orion Walker followed with an RBI single to make it 2-0.

Le Roy answered in the bottom of the frame. Peter Clark walked, advanced on a Holden Sullivan bunt, and scored on a sacrifice fly by freshman Jude Christ after a Luke Lathan single.

The Knights tied it in the seventh. Jake Higgins singled, advanced on an error, and scored after a Sullivan single and a Luke Lathan fielder’s choice.
In the bottom of the eighth, Jagger Smith singled and Alex Spezzano doubled down the right field line. With one out and runners on second and third, sophomore Brady McClurg delivered the game-winning RBI single.

Luke Lathan started for Le Roy and pitched into the fifth inning. Peter Clark came on in relief, retiring the next three batters and finishing with three scoreless, hitless innings to earn the win. Matt Clark pitched well for Wayland-Cohocton in the loss.

Coach Antonio Koukides credited both teams for their effort. 

“This was a tremendous baseball game all around, with both teams playing their hearts out and fighting all the way to the end," he said. "Steve always has his boys prepared, and their pitcher did a tremendous job tonight keeping us off balance. I have a lot of respect for their program and knew this would be a really close game.”

Le Roy edges Haverling, 3-1, to reach Class B semifinals

Behind a dominant outing from Alex Spezzano and some highlight-reel defense, Le Roy advanced to the Section V Class B baseball semifinals Tuesday with a 3-1 win over Haverling.

Spezzano tossed a complete game two-hitter, striking out seven. 

After Haverling’s Dylan Wenban reached on an error and scored in the first, Spezzano allowed just one hit the rest of the way.

Le Roy’s defense came up big, highlighted by left fielder Jude Sherman’s diving catch to end the fourth and strand a runner. At the plate, Adam Woodworth and Jake Higgins drew back-to-back walks in the fourth, pulled off a double steal, and both scored—Woodworth on a wild pitch and Higgins on a fielder’s choice by Holden Sullivan. Higgins later drove in Woodworth with an RBI single in the fifth.

Jude Christ and Jagger Smith added hits for Le Roy. Haverling’s Gage Thomas pitched well in the loss, allowing just four hits.

Le Roy moves on to face No. 3 seed Wayland-Cohocton in Thursday’s semifinal.

Photos by Leslie Higgins.

The 14th annual MadisoNation golf tournament will be held Saturday, July 26, 2025, at LeRoy Country Club, 7759 E. Main Rd, LeRoy, NY.

This year’s event is expected to bring total donations over the $100,000 milestone since the tournament began 14 years ago. The four-person scramble costs $500 per team and includes golf, lunch, dinner, and live music after the event.

MadisoNation was inspired by Madison Marie Muckle's childhood cancer battle. Madison was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia shortly after her third birthday in 2010. She underwent two and a half years of intensive treatment before being declared cancer-free. Her family and community created the annual golf tournament to raise funds to support families and organizations affected by childhood cancer, honoring Madison’s journey and the challenges she faced,

Teams can register or donate by contacting Kevin Muckle at 585-300-7499 or Jen Muckle at 585-300-8440, or by visiting madisonation.org. Registration is also available via Venmo, with instructions to include the team name, participants, and a contact phone number.

“This is going to be a big milestone for our event as we will be surpassing the $100K mark in donations over the last 14 years. I never thought we could do it but here we are,” Kevin Muckle said.

Proceeds from the tournament benefit local families and organizations. The event continues to unite the community in support of those facing childhood cancer.
 

Press Release:

The following is the schedule of events and activities being conducted this Memorial Day, Monday, May 26, by Botts-Fiorito Post #576, American Legion:

9:45 a.m. - Form up at the American Legion parking lot for the Annual Memorial Parade.

10:30 a.m. - Parade "Steps off"

11 a.m. - Memorial Day program commences at the Trigon Park Memorial

• Introduction and Welcome by Commander David A. Rumsey
• Invocation by Post Chaplain Gary Bassett
• National Anthem sung by Ms. Aubrey Puccio, Senior LHS!
• Introduction of the 2025 “Poppy Girl”- Ms. Brair DeBellis and 2 “Poppy Ambassadors” Noah and Elijah Ford
• Speaker: Mr. James Ellison, USN, Ret.
• Reading of list of deceased veterans who have passed away in the past year with the placement of Memorial flag for each veteran.
• Playing of "Taps" followed by Firing Squad volley
• Benediction and closing by Post Chaplain Gary Bassett
• Singing of “God Bless America” led by Aubrey Puccio and the combined Le Roy High School bands.

11:45 a.m. - DISMISS

• Hot dogs (Zweigles) and soft drinks free to all after Parade at the Legion Post Home located at 53 West Main Street immediately following the parade.

Le Roy advanced in the Class B sectionals with a commanding 19-3 win over Attica on Friday. 

Senior Luke Lathan set the tone on the mound, pitching five strong innings and allowing just two hits and one run to earn the victory. Freshman Jude Christ finished the job, tossing the final two innings and surrendering only two hits.

At the plate, the Knights’ offense was relentless. Alex Spezzano, Brady McClurg, and Jake Higgins each collected two hits, while Cam Wilson, Peter Clark, Jace Jedrewski, Jude Christ, and Jagger Smith all contributed with a hit apiece.

With the win, Le Roy moves on to face the winner of the Dansville-Haverling matchup on Tuesday.

Photos by Leslie Higgins

Press Release:

Eight local students graduated on Wednesday, May 14, from the Genesee County Youth Bureau’s Youth Lead Program. This eight-month-long program focuses on developing leadership skills through hands-on experiences. 

Congratulations to the following Genesee County Youth for completing the program:

• Elle Bentley, a Freshman from Elba
• Preslee Blecha, a Freshman from Alexander
• Jenavieve Gang, a Freshman from Oakfield-Alabama
• Lyla Jones, a Freshman from Le Roy
• Kennedy Lear, a Freshman from Alexander
• Lucia Longoria, a Sophomore from Elba
• Zachary Thorne, a Freshman from Alexander
• Carolyn Wujcik, a Freshman from Le Roy

These eight students met monthly to learn more about their community, how to be leaders, and the needs and challenges found in Genesee County. 

Areas of topic this year included Leadership, Business, Community Service, Criminal Justice, Arts & Culture, and Health & Emergency Preparedness. A few highlights of this year included a tour of The Chamber of Commerce, creating holiday cards for the elderly in Genesee County, a tour of the new Genesee County Jail, a history of Jamaican Culture by Jackie Swaby at GOART!, and a fire extinguisher demonstration by Gary Patnode of Genesee County Office of Emergency Management. 

Congratulations to these future leaders!

Applications for Youth Lead are open for the 2025-2026 school year. Interested Genesee County high school students, grades 9-12, are encouraged to apply. Applications are due September 1, 2025. For additional information or to apply, visit https://shorturl.at/t6qPr.

Daniel R. Yates, 55, of Batavia, is charged with attempted robbery, 3rd degree, and attempted criminal possession of a weapon, 2nd degree. Yates allegedly attempted to take a Batavia police officer’s gun out of the holster while police were attempting to take him into custody on May 2. He was arraigned in City Court and released under the supervision of Genesee Justice.

Roman B. Warchol, 45, of Elm Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Jennifer R. Warchol, 43, of Elm Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree; operating a motor vehicle without insurance; operating a motor vehicle with a suspended registration; and operating a motor vehicle without an inspection certificate. Roman and Jennifer Warchol were arrested May 21 following a traffic stop, during which both were allegedly found in possession of narcotics. They were processed at the Genesee County Jail and released on appearance tickets.

Supreme N. Ervin, 26, of North Spruce Street, Batavia, is charged with public lewdness. Ervin was arrested May 20 after allegedly exposing private parts of his body while in a store on Veterans Memorial Drive in the Town of Batavia. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released on an appearance ticket.

Daquan J. Butler, 29, of Ocean Avenue, Brooklyn, is charged with possession of contraband. Butler is accused of possessing contraband inside the Genesee County Jail on May 16. He was issued an appearance ticket and will appear in Batavia Town Court on May 27.

Bernard L. Parnell, 35, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny and obstructing governmental administration, 2nd degree. Parnell allegedly stole merchandise from Speedway and resisted police when they attempted to detain him. He was issued an appearance ticket and released. Earlier the same day, Parnell was arrested on Otis Street after he allegedly refused to leave a residence and allegedly punched another person. He was charged with criminal trespass, 2nd degree, and harassment, 2nd degree.

Anthony A. Bomasuto, 31, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt, 2nd degree, and aggravated family offense. Bomasuto is accused of being involved in an altercation with a person who has an order of protection against him on April 10. He was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail.

Kara B. Baker, 52, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Baker is accused of stealing merchandise from Aldi on April 15. She was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Jerome W. Amesbury, 59, of Oakfield, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Amesbury was arrested on April 10 following a traffic stop on Jan. 10, when he was allegedly found in possession of narcotics. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Anthony G. Cicoria, 56, of Caledonia, is charged with DWI. Cicoria was arrested on April 10 following a traffic stop on West Main Street. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Michael A. Fanizza, 31, of Batavia, is charged with burglary, 2nd degree, and criminal contempt, 2nd degree. Fanizza allegedly entered a residence illegally in violation of an order of protection. He was arraigned in CAP Court.

Donyel E. Walker, 26, of Batavia, is charged with burglary, 2nd degree, criminal contempt, 1st degree, and harassment, 2nd degree. Walker was arrested April 17 after allegedly violating an order of protection inside a residence on Hutchins Street. He was arraigned in CAP Court.

Thomas J. Preedom, 36, of Batavia, is charged with failure to register as a sex offender. Preedom is accused of failing to register his address as a level 2 sex offender. He was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail without bail.

Jacob W. Patterson, 29, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Patterson was allegedly found in possession of narcotics during an incident on State Street on April 15, 2024. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Christopher E. Tanner, 52, of Batavia, is charged with harassment, 2nd degree. Tanner allegedly struck another person during an altercation on State Street. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Kelly R. Seeler, 52, of Albion, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Seeler was allegedly found in possession of narcotics during a traffic stop on Pearl Street on Jan. 17. She was arraigned and released.

Benjamin M. Klotzbach, 34, of Batavia, is charged with unlawful imprisonment, 2nd degree, and harassment, 2nd degree. Klotzbach allegedly headbutted another person and prevented them from leaving a residence during an altercation on Elmwood Avenue. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Johnny D. Vidal, 40, of Batavia, is charged with filing a false written statement. Vidal is accused of signing a written statement alleging that another person threatened him with a firearm. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Nathiel D. Wilson III, 19, of Batavia, and Ashton T. McWethy-Thornley, 18, of Batavia, are charged with criminal mischief, 3rd degree, and conspiracy, 5th degree. Wilson and McWethy-Thornley are accused of damaging a window on a house and a vehicle on State Street. Wilson was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail. McWethy-Thornley was arraigned and released.

Karen B. Armstrong, 48, of Batavia, and Ashlee S. Thomas, 28, of Batavia, are charged with endangering the welfare of a child. Armstrong and Thomas were charged following an altercation on Denio Street, where Armstrong allegedly kicked a 13-year-old girl and Thomas allegedly slapped another person who was holding a young child. Thomas was additionally charged with harassment, 2nd degree. Both were issued appearance tickets and released.

Andrew R. Del Gandio, 31, of Rochester, is charged with DWI. Del Gandio was arrested April 27 following a traffic stop on East Main Street. He was issued several traffic tickets and released.

James R. Briggs, 49, of Corning, was arrested April 30 on four warrants, including two bench warrants and two arrest warrants. He was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail.

Nankumar McLaulin, 32, of Hicksville, was arrested April 24 on a warrant. McLaulin allegedly failed to appear in court after being issued a misdemeanor traffic ticket in December 2023. He turned himself in, was arraigned in City Court, and released.

John W. Biaselli, 56, of Batavia, was arrested April 24 on a warrant. Biaselli was initially charged with petit larceny after allegedly stealing merchandise from Dollar General on Feb. 28. The warrant was issued after he failed to appear in court. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Shelby L. Fryer, 29, of Batavia, was arrested April 24 on a bench warrant. Fryer was initially charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree, following a traffic stop on Dec. 17, 2024. Fryer was arraigned in City Court and released.

Nicole Granger, 34, of Batavia, is charged with offering a false instrument for filing, grand larceny, 3rd degree, and three counts of forgery, 1st degree. Granger is accused of failing to report that the biological father of her child was residing in the home and earning wages, and of forging three documents related to her rental payments. As a result, she allegedly received $6,426 in SNAP benefits she was not entitled to. Granger was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on her own recognizance.

Nicole Sprung, 39, of Le Roy, is charged with forgery, 1st degree, welfare fraud, 4th degree, and grand larceny, 4th degree. Sprung is accused of failing to report that the biological father of her child was living in the home and earning wages, and of forging a neighbor’s signature attesting that he was not in the home. She allegedly received $2,641 in SNAP benefits she was not entitled to. Sprung was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on her own recognizance.

Cheryl Ditzel, 61, of Batavia, is charged with welfare fraud, 4th degree. Ditzel is accused of failing to report monies being deposited into a bank account she had access to, resulting in her allegedly receiving $2,435 in SNAP benefits she was not entitled to. She was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on her own recognizance.

Jacqueline Sogunro-Pitan, 44, of Batavia, is charged with welfare fraud, 4th degree. She is accused of failing to report wages she was earning at Walmart and, as a result, receiving $2,304 in SNAP benefits she was not entitled to. She was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on her own recognizance.

Erica E. Cullen, 34, of Bank Street Road, Elba, is charged with offering a false instrument for filing, 1st degree; welfare fraud, 3rd degree; and grand larceny, 3rd degree. Cullen is accused of receiving $3,138 in SNAP benefits she was not entitled to. She was arrested following an investigation by the Department of Social Services and arraigned in Batavia Town Court on May 22, where she was released on her own recognizance.

Brandon Gerald Starkweather, 33, no permanent address, is charged with criminal contempt, 1st degree. Starkweather is accused of striking another person who had an active stay-away order of protection against him. He was held for arraignment following his arrest on May 22.

Davon H. Patton, 39, of Buffalo, is charged with criminal possession of stolen property, 4th degree. Patton was allegedly found operating a stolen vehicle on Oak Street on May 7. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Brian M. Raphael, 37, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a weapon, 3rd degree. Raphael was allegedly found in possession of a bludgeon, specifically a club with barbed wire wrapped around it, on May 7. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Joseph M. Tornabene, 33, of Buffalo, is charged with aggravated family offense and criminal contempt, 2nd degree. Tornabene allegedly violated an order of protection by being at the residence of a protected party on April 30. He was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail.

Marissa A. McGill, 39, of Batavia, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child and circumventing an interlock device. McGill allegedly had a child blow into her vehicle’s interlock device and left her children unattended for an extended period of time on May 9. She was issued appearance tickets and released.

Michael J. Cutitta, 40, of Batavia, is charged with menacing, 3rd degree. Cutitta allegedly threatened to kill another person on May 10. He was arraigned in CAP Court and released.

Colleen M. Hutchinson, 50, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree, and criminal use of drug paraphernalia, 2nd degree. Hutchinson was allegedly found in possession of narcotics and drug paraphernalia during a traffic stop on Ellicott Avenue on Feb. 19. She was issued appearance tickets and released.

Justin T. Gladney, 36, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Gladney was allegedly found in possession of narcotics on West Main Street on Aug. 1, 2024. He was issued an appearance ticket at the Genesee County Jail, where he is currently incarcerated on a separate matter.

Kaila I. Tidd, 40, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt, 2nd degree, and endangering the welfare of a child. Tidd allegedly allowed a sex offender to be at her residence around her children, in violation of an order of protection, on May 1. She was arraigned in City Court and released on her own recognizance.

Edward J. Ludwig, 62, of Alden, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Ludwig was allegedly found in possession of narcotics during a traffic stop on Jan. 17. He was arraigned in CAP Court and released.

Ricky A. Marsceill, 60, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Marsceill was allegedly found in possession of narcotics during a traffic stop on May 20, 2024. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Bill A. Thomas, 65, of Batavia, was arrested on three bench warrants, all stemming from previous trespass charges where he failed to appear in court. He was arraigned in CAP Court.

Michelle L. May, 50, of Batavia, is charged with harassment, 2nd degree. May allegedly had physical contact with another person during an altercation on East Main Street on May 3. She was arraigned in CAP Court.

Tuesday, Wolcott Street School in Le Roy held a student art show.

Photos by Howard Owens.

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

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."