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Le Roy

Flooding reported at viaduct on West Main Street, Le Roy

By Howard B. Owens

Le Roy Fire is requested to the viaduct on West Main Street near Royal Drive for a report of flooding.

UPDATE 10:51 a.m.: Westbound traffic is blocked at Gilbert Street.

UPDATE 10:59 a.m.: A vehicle got stuck in the water. The occupant is out of the vehicle. Gilbert Street is flooded. There is also flooding at the fire hall.

UPDATE 11:51 a.m.: The flooding has cleared on West Main Street.

Minor injury accident reported on Lake Street Road, Le Roy

By Howard B. Owens

A two-car, minor injury accident is reported on Lake Street Road at Griswold Circle, Le Roy.

Le Roy fire and Le Roy ambulance dispatched.

UPDATE 10:37 a.m.: A chief on scene has said to keep the response to himself and an ambulance.

Electric wires arcing at dairy barn in Le Roy

By Billie Owens

Electric lines are arcing, causing a possible fire in a dairy cow barn at 8427 Gully Road in Le Roy. Le Roy Fire Department is responding, along with mutual aid from Bergen, Stafford, Pavilion, Caledonia and a Fast Team and tanker from Mumford, plus the City of Batavia and Mercy medics. A first responder on scene says "nothing showing, investigating."

UPDATE 5:16 a.m.: Electricity has been cut to the barn. Responders on scene are searching the barn. All mutual aid responders are told to hold the assignment in their quarters, but the city is continuing in non-emergency mode.

UPDATE 5:18 a.m.: The city's third platoon is requested to the fire station.

UPDATE 5:21 a.m.: The city's engine 11 is back in service. The Gully Road location is between Conlon and Hebbard roads. Mutual aid responders are told to go back in service, per Le Roy's fire chief.

UPDATE 5:36 a.m.: The Le Roy assignment is back in service.

Law and Order: 53-year-old man accused of pushing and following pair of little girls in Batavia

By Billie Owens

Alejandro Chaparro, 53, of Braley Road, Ransomville, is charged with two counts of endangering the welfare of a child and two counts of second-degree harassment. At 9:29 p.m. on Aug. 4, following an investigation into a harassment complaint, Chaparro was arrested on Main Street Road in Batavia. He allegedly pushed and followed an 11-year-old girl and a 9-year-old girl. He was arraigned in Town of Batavia Court and is due back there on Aug. 27. The case was investigated by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Joshua Brabon, assisted by Deputy Andrew Mullen.

Paul R. Hogle, 53, of Vallence Road, Le Roy, was arrested on Aug. 2 by Le Roy Police Department and charged with one count of stalking in the fourth degree, a Class B misdemeanor, and one count of forcible touching, a Class A misdemeanor. Hogle was arrested after a complaint was received by the Le Roy Police Department that he had allegedly placed a GPS locating device on the victim’s vehicle and used it to find them at a later time. It is also alleged that Hogle had unwanted contact with the victim. Hogle was arraigned in the Town of Stafford Court and was turned over to the Genesee County Jail in lieu of $500 bail. Hogle was subsequently arrested on Aug. 3 for criminal contempt in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor. On Aug. 3, Hogle allagedly violated a court order, ordering him to stay away from the protected party. It is alleged that on that date, knowing said order was in place, that Hogle made contact with the protected party. Hogle was arraigned again arraigned in the Town of Stafford Court and jailed in lieu of $10,000 bail. Hogle is to return to the Le Roy Town Court on Aug. 13 to answer all charges.

Jennifer Nichole Wenner, 31, of Wood Street, Batavia, is charged with: driving while intoxicated; aggravated DWI -- operating a motor vehicle while having a BAC of .18 percent or more; consuming alcohol in a motor vehicle; obstructed view; disorderly conduct -- urinating in a public place. Wenner was arrested at 1:58 a.m. on West Main Street in Batavia after an investigation into a disturbance at a gas station. The case was investigated by Batavia Police Officer Jason Ivison, assisted by Officer Peter Flanagan.

Vincent M. Eschenlauer, 27, of Bank Street, Batavia, is charged with: driving while ability impaired -- combined influence of drugs or alcohol/drugs; leaving the scene of a property damage accident; moving from lane unsafely; driving a motor vehicle on or across a sidewalk; operating a motor vehicle on a public highway while using a mobile phone. The defendant was arrested after he allegedly fled the scene of a one-car collision on Route 63 at Jackson Street in the city at 7:09 p.m. on July 30. He is due in City Court on Aug. 15. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Marc Lawrence, assisted by Officer Jason Davis.

Michael John Reeves, 39, of Military Road, Tonawanda, is charged with: aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree; two counts of DWI; operating a motor vehicle with headlights; and uninspected motor vehicle. Reeves was stopped at 12:28 a.m. on Aug. 4 on Route 77 in Pembroke for allegedly operating a motor vehicle without headlights. Reeves was issued appearance tickets to answer the charges and is due in Pembroke Town Court on Aug. 28. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Ryan Young, assisted by Deputy Eric Meyer.

Patrick D. Powell, 32, of Manor Park, Rochester, is charged with: unlawful possession of marijuana; aggravated unlicensed operation in the second degree; inadequate exhaust; drinking alcohol in motor vehicle on a highway. At 1 p.m. on Aug. 3, following a traffic stop on Richmond Avenue in the City of Batavia, Powell was arrested on the charges. He was issued an appearance ticket for Aug. 21 in City Court. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Joshua Brabon.

Sharon Yvonne Sharman, 47, of Seven Springs Road, Batavia, is charged with driving while intoxicated and DWI -- operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 percent or higher. Sharman was arrested following an investigation into a domestic incident on Seven Springs Road at 3:12 a.m. on Aug. 4. She was issued an appearance ticket for Sept. 20 in Town of Batavia Court. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Matthew Clor, assisted by Deputy James Stack.

Aerielle Susan Davis, 29, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with DWI -- first offense, and operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 pr more. She was arrested at 1:47 a.m. on Aug. 4 on West Main Street in Corfu following an investigation of a woman asleep at the wheel of a running vehicle in the village. She was issued an appearance ticket for Village of Corfu Court and is due there Aug. 20. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Eric Meyer, assisted by Deputy Erik Andre.

Dalton C. Kelly, 20, of Chase Park, Batavia, is charged with fourth-degree criminal mischief and second-degree harassment. Kelly was arrested at 5:40 p.m. on July 30 in Batavia after a report of a male out of control who damaged property. He was scheduled to appear in court July 31. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Arick Perkins, assisted by Officer Kevin DeFelice.

Nasir C. Nathan, 22, of West Main Street, Le Roy, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt. He was arrested 7:45 p.m. on July 24 on Watson Street in the City of Batavia after he allegedly made threats toward a person protected by a stay-away court order against Nathan. He is due in City Court on Aug. 14. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Jamie Givens.

Ahdeosun R. Aiken, 20, of Ellicott Avenue, Batavia, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt. He was arrested at 10:19 p.m. on Aug. 3 on Walnut Street in Batavia after allegedly violating an order of protection during a domestic incident. He was arraigned in City Court and released on his own recognizance. He was due back in City Court today (Aug. 6). The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay, assisted by Officer Jamie Givens.

Barbra Ann Nehl, 75, of West Main Street, Corfu, is charged with petit larceny. She was arrested at 4:52 p.m. on Aug. 5 at a retail store on Route 77 in the Town of Pembroke. She allegedly stole $37.70 worth of merchandise without paying and by passing all points of purchase. She was released on an appearance ticket and is due in Town of Pembroke Court on Aug. 23. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Kyle Krzemien.

Michael L. Jackson Jr., of Maple Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. He was arrested at 4:13 p.m. on July 27 on West Main Street in Batavia after he allegedly stole items from a grocery store. He is due in City Court on July 14. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay, assisted by Officer Christopher Camp.

Dustin Wayne Bogue, 36, no permanent address, is charged with petit larceny. Bogue was arrested at 1:41 a.m. on West Main Street in Batavia after it was alleged that he entered a convenience store and stole property. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Kyle Krtanik, assisted by Officer Peter Flanagan.

Taylor L. Finnin, 25, of 131 S. Swan St., Batavia, is charged with trespass. The defendant was arrested at 5:30 p.m. on July 29 on South Main Street in Batavia after he allegedly trespassed at a residence after being told he was not allowed there. He is due in City Court tomorrow (Aug. 7). The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Catherine Mucha, assisted by Officer Jason Davis.

Shane Eugene Dann, 41, of Swan Street, Batavia, was arrested Aug. 1 on a bench warrant issued by Batavia City Court. The warrant was issued after Dann failed to appear for a scheduled court appearance in regard to an incident that occurred on Feb. 18. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Lindsay Christopher, assisted by Officer Arick Perkins.

A 16-year-old female who lives on Astor Ridge Road in Amherst is charged with DWI-drugs and unsafe backing. She was arrested at 11:21 a.m. on Aug. 5 on Alleghany Road in Corfu after an investigation into a property damage accident at Crosby's convenience store. She was issued an appearance ticker for Corfu Village Court and is due there on Oct. 1. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Lonnie Nati.

A 17-year-old female who lives on West Utica Street, Buffalo, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. She was arrested at 11:30 a.m. on Aug. 5 on Alleghany Road in Corfu. She was allegedly found in possession of a small amount of marijuana during a DWI -- drug arrest. She was issued an appearance ticket for Corfu Village Court on Sept. 10. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Lonnie Nati.

Farmer's Creekside Tavern & Inn in Le Roy wins two prestigious awards

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The almost 200-year-old Farmer’s Creekside Tavern & Inn has been fully restored and expanded after a fire nearly destroyed the building in 2004. At just over one year in business, Farmer’s is making waves -- not only received the OpenTable Diners' Choice Award, but also recently being awarded the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.

Establishments awarded, “The Award of Excellence” typically offer at least 90 selections, feature a well-chosen assortment of quality producers, along with a thematic match to the menu in both price and style. Whether compact or extensive, focused or diverse, these lists deliver sufficient choice to satisfy discerning wine lovers.

At Farmer's, we strive to offer a unique experience:

The world of wine is vast and nearly limitless. There are more than 25,000 different grape varietals grown in more than 6,000 regions. Politics, trade and agricultural economics have largely influenced what grapes dominate the market. Today, the average consumer is generally exposed to the “6 Noble Grapes” which include: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling.

While Farmer’s Creekside pays homage to many of the “popular kids,” we’ve dedicated ourselves toward exploring many of the other 24,994 grapes from several of the lesser-known regions. Humans are explorers at heart and we hope to lead our guests through an exploration of wine.    

Farmer's Creekside Tavern & Inn Supports Local Agriculture:

Restaurants are a big foundation for supporting the local economy -- from masons to carpenters to cow farmers and wine producers -- we have an economic responsibility to support the local agricultural industry. Sommelier Drew Tschäppät notes that, “Finger Lakes and Niagara wine has come immeasurably far in the last 20 years. Sommeliers and critics have taken note and more and more consumers are getting on board as well. I consider myself extremely fortunate to be working in a region that is producing such incredible wines and that is getting better each year.”

With a modern menus, beautifully appointed guest rooms, and an award-winning wine list, Farmer’s Creekside Tavern & Inn has positioned themselves as a destination dining venue worth visiting. It is located at 1 Main St. in the Village of Le Roy.

For more information visit FarmersCreekside.com or call to reserve a table 585-768-6007.

Law enforcement searching for fleeing subjects in the area of I-490 and I-90, Le Roy

By Howard B. Owens

A trooper was pursuing two individuals on the Thruway and one rider dumped his bike at the I-490.

At some point, the individual wrestled with the trooper but it's not clear when or where.

He is a black male wearing jeans and a multi-colored jacket.

The other motorcycle exited the Thruway at the 490 and fled in an unknown direction of travel. It's unknown if he circled back and picked up the rider.

Troopers and deputies heading to the area.

A K-9 is requested.

UPDATE 12:03 a.m.: All responding units have switched to L.E. Secure. We won't hear any more about this incident.

Half of the Village of Le Roy about to lose power after accident on Lake Street Road

By Howard B. Owens

About half the Village of Le Roy will lose power for up to a half hour while crews work on downed power lines along Lake Street Road near Orcon Industries.

About 35 minutes ago, a Waste Management truck coming through the area hit power lines and pulled them down. Before crews could get in place to shut down traffic, more trucks came through the area and pulled down more lines, according to Le Roy Police Chief Chris Hayward.

Le Roy fire and Le Roy PD along with National Grid are on scene.

UPDATE 4:59 p.m.: National Grid has control of the scene now. Le Roy fire is back in service.

Law and Order: Driver charged after backing into pedestrian in Oakfield

By Howard B. Owens

Deborah Rodriguez, age not provided, residence not provided, is charged with driving while ability impaired by drugs and alcohol, unlicensed operation, 1st, and unsafe backing. Rodriguez was reportedly backing out of a driveway in the Village of Oakfield when her vehicle struck a pedestrian who was walking on the sidewalk. The patient was transported to UMMC for treatment of minor injuries.

Brenna Elizabeth Decillis, 24, of Park Road, Batavia, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .18 or greater, and leaving the scene of a property-damage accident. Decillis was charged following an investigation into an accident at 7:18 a.m. Wednesday on Park Road. Decillis is accused of driving a vehicle that struck two parked cars and a building. The investigation was conducted by deputies Ryan DeLong, Richard Schildwaster, and Jeremy McClellan.

Latashia M. Sanchez, 25, of Central Avenue, Batavia, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and failure to dim headlights. Sanchez was stopped at 11:50 p.m. Tuesday on East Main Street, Village of Le Roy, by a Le Roy police officer.

Seth Ryan Kronewetter, 25, of Indian Creek, Eldred, Pa., is charged with making terroristic threats and aggravated harassment, 2nd. Kronewetter is accused of making threats to harm patrons of a concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center. Kronewetter was arraigned in Darien Town Court and released under supervision of Genesee Justice.

Andres A. Arteaga, 20, of Batavia, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. Arteaga was stopped at 9:29 p.m. Monday on Route 33, Stafford, by State Police.

Nicholas J. Heschke, 31, of Medina, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. Heschke was topped at 1:58 a.m. Monday on Route 77, Town of Alabama, by State Police.

Travel trailer rollover accident reported on the Thruway in Le Roy

By Howard B. Owens

A travel-trailer rollover accident is reported on the Thruway in the area of mile marker 376.8 in the westbound lane in Le Roy.

No injuries reported but both lanes are blocked.

Le Roy fire and Le Roy ambulance responding.

Photos by Alex Feig, WBTA.

Alzheimer's Association offers seminar on warning signs, also caregiver support groups and respite available

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Alzheimer’s Association® Western New York Chapter is offering a number of programs and services across Genesee County in August. These programs are free and open to the public.

Haxton Memorial Library at 3 North Pearl Street in Oakfield will host "Know the Ten Warning Signs: Early Detection Matters" at 4:30 p.m. on Aug. 29.

This program will focus on recognizing potential warning signs of memory problems because early diagnosis is critical to ensure that families can plan for the future together, take advantage of available resources and take part in social engagement programs where they can interact and connect with others facing similar challenges.

Additionally, the Chapter trains facilitators to lead several monthly caregiver support groups across the county, which allow caregivers to connect with others facing similar challenges and hear advice for overcoming them:

Batavia:

  • 3rd  Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m. – Richmond Memorial Library, 19 Ross St.
  • 3rd Thursday at 1 p.m. – Genesee County Office for the Aging, 12 Bank St.

Le Roy:

  • 2nd Monday at 2 p.m. – The Greens of Le Roy, 1 West Ave.

Telephone Support Group:

  • 2nd Wednesday from 12:10-12:55 p.m. – For more information, call the Genesee County Office for the Aging at (585) 343-1611

A community social program, or respite, is also available every month in Corfu. This program provides relief to those who care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia and offers them some time to refresh and recharge, while their loved one is engaged in social activities in a safe environment.

Indian Falls United Methodist Church at 7908 Allegany Road offers a respite service on the 3rd Wednesday of every month. For more information, call Celinda McQuiston at (585) 762-9105.

To learn more about other Alzheimer’s Association programs and services, contact the WNY Chapter office at 1.800.272.3900.

Le Roy American Legion to hold ceremony to dispose of worn U.S. flags Aug. 5 at Northwoods Sportsmen Club

By Billie Owens

Press release:

On Sunday, Aug. 5, the Botts-Fiorito Post #576, American Legion in Le Roy will be conducting the fourth annual Ceremony for the Disposal of Unserviceable Flags.
 
The ceremony will take place at the Northwoods Sportsmen Club, located at 8402 Gulf Road in Le Roy.
 
Anyone with flags that need to be disposed of may drop them off at the American Legion Post, located at 53 W. Main St.
 
Anyone interested in attending and joining in this ceremony are invited to be at the Northwoods Sportsman Club at 1 o’clock sharp, with the ceremonial presentation conducted by the Post Commander, followed immediately with the burning of the flags.

Law and Order: 40-year-old Oakfield man accused of having intercourse with female under age 17

By Billie Owens

John M. Brabowski, 40, of Fisher Road, Oakfield, is charged with third-degree rape. He was arrested on July 24 and arraigned at 9:11 p.m. in Batavia Town Court. It is alleged that he engaged in sexual intercourse with a female victim under the age of 17 on July 23 at a location on Fisher Road in Oakfield. He was jailed on $100,000 bail and is due in Oakfield Town Court on Aug. 6 to answer the charge. Additional charges are pending. The case was investigated by Genesee County Sheriff's Investigator Joseph Loftus, Youth Officer Howard Carlson and Sgt. Bradley Mazur.

Anthony D. Micucci, 24, of Main Street, Alexander, is charged with third-degree assault, third-degree menacing, and endangering the welfare of a child. He was arrested at 3:25 p.m. on July 25 on Main Street in Alexander following a domestic incident in the village. He is due in Town of Alexander Court on Aug. 8. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Joshua Brabon.

Joshua M. Gaudioso, 29, of Genesee Street, Le Roy, is charged with criminal possession of a weapon because he is a convicted felon. He was arrested and arraigned in Bergen Town Court at 9 p.m. on July 26. He was jailed in lieu of $10,000 cash or bond. He is accused of possessing a shotgun on July 20 at a location on North Bergen Road, Bergen. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Andrew Mullen, assisted by Deputy Chad Minuto.

Kevin Wayne Howard, 18, Bank Street, Batavia, is charged with unlawful use of a motor vehicle in the third degree. He was arrested at 4 a.m. July 26 on Griswold Road in Le Roy following a complaint. It is alleged that the defendant took a motor vehicle without the consent of the owner. He was issued an appearance ticket for Town of Le Roy Court and is due there Sept. 3. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Ryan DeLong, assisted by Batavia Police Sgt. Dan Coffey.

Damien Anthony Weir, 37, of Branch Lane, East Stroudsburg, Pa., is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. The defendant was charged after a traffic stop on Veterans Memorial Drive in Batavia at 10:28 a.m. on July 24. He was issued an appearance ticket for Batavia Town Court and is due there on Aug. 14. The case was handled by Sheriff's Deputy Lonnie Nati, assisted by Deputy Ryan DeLong.

Law and Order: Ellicott Avenue woman charged after dog bites another dog, two people

By Howard B. Owens

Tracy A. Battaglia, 47, of Ellicott Avenue, Batavia, is charged with owning an unlicensed dog and dog running at large. Battaglia was charged after her dog ran loose and bit another dog and two people attempting to intervene (initial report).

Thomas E. Brenkus, 50, of East Main Street, Batavia, is charged with forcible touching and first-degree sex abuse. Brenkus is accused of touching a female acquaintance by force for the purpose of sexual gratification. He was jailed without bail.

Cameron David Majewski, 19, of South Swan Street, Batavia, is charged with harassment. Majewski allegedly punched another person during a disturbance on South Swan Street at 1:30 p.m. March 25. He was jailed on $1,000 bail.

Kerry Ann Dudek, 43, of Fisher Road, Oakfield, is charged with petit larceny. Dudek is accused of stealing $54.63 worth of merchandise from Tops Friendly Market.

Darien L. Rhodes, 25, of Dellinger Avenue, Batavia, is charged with criminal obstruction of breathing, criminal possession of a controlled substance, unlawful imprisonment, menacing, 2nd, criminal possession of a weapon. Rhodes was charged following an incident reported at 1:09 a.m. July 12 at a location on Dellinger Avenue.

Deborah S. Rodriguez, 50, of Farnsworth Avenue, Oakfield, is charged with DWI and driving with a BAC of .08 or greater. Rodriguez was charged following an investigation into a disturbance on Pearl Street, Batavia, at 3 a.m. July 5, by Officer Matthew Wojtaszczyk.

Thomas A. Griffin II, 31, is charged with South Swan Street, Batavia, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child and harassment, 2nd. Griffin is accused of trying to take a child out of the arms of another person and striking the person in the face in an incident reported at 4 p.m., Monday. Griffin was jailed on $2,500 bail.

Shawn Brent Springsteen, 53, of Fitchett Street, Poughkeepsie, is charged with criminal contempt, 1st. Springsteen was allegedly found in the presence of a person protected by a complete stay away order at 4:48 p.m. Wednesday at a truck stop on Route 77, Pembroke.

Andrea Marie Gray, 40, of Lake Street, Le Roy, is charged criminal mischief, 4th. Gray is accused of damaging property at 5130 E. Main St., Batavia, at 2:15 p.m. July 10.

Maurice Devon Doleman Sr., 49, of Killian Road, Pembroke, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, illegal signal, driver's view obstructed. Doleman was stopped at 11:07 p.m. Tuesday on Killian Road, Pembroke, by Deputy Eric Meyer.

Jacob Wyatt Klotzbach, 26, of Walnut Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Klotzbach is accused of stealing $22.67 in merchandise from Tops Friendly Market in Batavia.

Ryan D. Bell, 19, of Henrietta, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana and driving a vehicle without an inspection certificate. Bell was stopped at 9:32 p.m. Wednesday on Route 77 in Darien by State Police. Also charged with unlawful possession of marijuana is Jason A. Batterson, 33, of Walworth.

Jennifer A. Roskey, 37, of Oakfield, is charged with menacing, 2nd, acting in a manner injurious to a child, and criminal possession of a weapon, 3rd. Roskey was charged following an incident reported at 8:23 p.m. Wednesday, at 39 S. Main St., Oakfield, by State Police. Roskey was ordered held on bail. No further information released.

Domonique T. Smith, 26, of Rochester, is charged with DWI, Felony DWI, endangering the welfare of a child, and driving while impaired by drugs. Smith was stopped at 2:03 p.m. June 27 on South Lake Road, Bergen, by State Police.

Trisha R. Santora, 35, of Batavia, is charged with conspiracy, 5th, grand larceny, 4th, and falsifying business records. Santora is accused of a theft at Home Depot reported at 1:37 p.m. Monday. Santora was arrested by State Police. No further details released.

Le Roy HS Alumni Committee honors its busy, fact-filled town Historian Lynne Belluscio

By Billie Owens

Town of Le Roy Historian Lynne Belluscio holds the Certificate of Appreciation she received from Joe Riggi at the Le Roy High School Alumni Banquet on July 13.

Submitted photo and press release from Pat Iamon:

On July 13, during the Le Roy High School Alumni Banquet at Sacred Heart hall in Batavia, Joe Riggi presented Lynne Belluscio, Town of Le Roy historian, with a framed certificate thanking her for her dedicated service to Le Roy.

The annual alumni banquet is for Le Roy High School students who graduated 50 or more years ago.

Busy as she always is, Lynne rushed in, bounced around the room chatting with many of her fellow LeRoyans; many that she called by name. At the start of the festivities Riggi introduced Lynne who gave an interesting talk about Le Roy’s Jell-O history. She shared many facts about the invention of Jell-O, the Woodward family, the Jello-O plant, marketing stories of the product and also about the artifacts at the Jell-O Museum she manages.

Lynne asked for a raise of hands from those in attendance whose family members worked at the North Street Jello-O plant. It quickly appeared that about 15-20 percent in attendance had mothers, fathers, aunts or uncles who worked at the plant. Marie, Rose and Joe Riggi, all present and members of the Alumni Committee have a long history with Jell-O. The Riggi’s mother and father relocated to Delaware when General Foods moved the plant to Dover. Once in Delaware their other siblings, Frances and Sam not only found work at the plant but also met their spouses there.

Following her talk Lynne could not stay for the meal and said her goodbyes while inviting everyone to come to the Jell-O Museum over Oatka Festival weekend. As she was ready to turn and leave Riggi stopped her to recognize her with the committee’s award of appreciation. 

This year there were members from the Class of 1944 through the Class of 1967. During the program Riggi showed many old photos of Le Roy as well as photos of the classes in attendance taken from old yearbooks. If anyone wants information on attending future banquets or becoming a member of the committee, please give Rose Scott a call at 585-768-7534.

Knowing that Lynne would be honored, Pat Iamon tried to quickly get some information about our keeper of Le Roy’s information. She spewed out her story as Iamon scribbled notes down. Lynne is a wealth of dates and details. Her memory is outstanding. As the town historian for the past five years it is hard to believe she’s dedicated herself to a town that’s not her home town. Lynne’s only been here since 1969 when she and her husband built their family home on North Road.

Lynne and her husband, Bob, are both from Rochester. Lynne attended Monroe High School then graduated from SUNY Oswego and worked as an Industrial Arts teacher at the Number 2 and 7 schools in Rochester. Bob attended West High School and graduated from RIT, he worked for Kodak. They have two children: Mark born in 1971 and Laura in 1972.

When they decided to build a home, they chose Le Roy. Lynne stayed home for a period of time before accepting a position heading up the special events at the Genesee Country Village & Museum in Mumford. During her years there she initiated many of their established yearly events such as the Agricultural Fair. She also established a baseball team known as the “Slab City Sluggers” who played ball around the community for several years.

Lynne had been a member of the Le Roy Historical Society since 1971. She became the director in 1988 and in1989 she initiated the column that appears in the Le Roy Pennysaver & News every week. Lynne estimates that she has written more than 1,000 of these lengthy fact-filled articles.

Once she became our town’s historian she has headed up many initiatives. She led the crusade to beautifully restore our little Statue of Liberty on the banks of the Oatka Creek. Last year she established a marker to commemorate the first Le Roy woman to vote. On April 2, 1982 she cast her historic vote. The marker stands in front of Le Roy’s Municipal Building.

Besides her continuing work in educating us, upgrading and increasing the collections and improving the appeal of the Le Roy House and Jell-O Museum, Lynne has more projects in the works. She is planning a new World War I memorial for Trigon Park and also has some plans for the historic steam shovel located on Gulf Road.

Lynne who is more than dedicated to Le Roy’s history is constantly digging up facts and happy to teach us all about this delightful little town. At the end of her talk, Lynne expressed her desire to become an honorary member of the Class of 1962. Any class would welcome her!

Le Roy sophomore has strong showing at national clay target championship

By Howard B. Owens

Aaron Leone, a sophomore at Le Roy High School, is now one of the top clay target shooters in the nation after finishing 73 among 1,331 competitors this weekend at the USA HS Clay Target League Championships. He shot 194 of 200. He finished sixth out of 49 competitors from New York. The competition was held in Mason, Mich.

Photos and info submitted by Tim McArdle.

A Knight's Journey is more than just a history of Le Roy football, it's the story of heroes and people who made a difference

By Howard B. Owens

"A Knight's Journey" is a book meant to carry its readers on a trip through the history of Le Roy Oatkan Knights football but in writing it, the authors, Jim Bonacquisti and John Mangefrida, traveled their own path of discovery, going deeper and learning more about a subject they had known their whole lives.

It was meaningful to Bonacquisti to learn more about some of the great Knights' coaches of the past, such as Edward Refsteck, Ed Walsh and Jimmy Brown, but the learning more about two former Knights who gave their lives for others really touched him.

"John Aramino and Gary Scott, those two stories, I mean I knew of both of them, but when you start to do the research about what heroes they were, I really thought it was important, specifically those two, for our young, not even just football players, but our young kids of this community to know about them because it's so long ago," Bonacquisti said. "It's 50, 60 years and these were selfless acts that these two did. It's incredible. The common bond is they were both Knight football players."

Aramino was still in school when he and some friends went out to target shoot around Buttermilk Falls in May 1961. A couple of the boys were on the tracks when a train came along, surprising the boys. A younger boy tried to run from the train and Aramino jump on him, forcing him to the ground between the rails and covered him with his body. Aramino was killed instantly.

After graduating from Syracuse, Gary Scott, who was Knights' team captain in 1962 and the second graduate to win the John Aramino Award, joined the Army and volunteered for the infantry, thinking combat was the quickest route to promotion, and as an African-American he felt blacks were underrepresented in leadership roles in the military. He was killed in action in 1968, saving a fellow soldier's life when their platoon was ambushed and winning the Silver Star as a result.

For Mangefrida the discovery of Reginald D. Root and his story and accomplishments was a gem to research. 

Root was a 1920 graduate of Le Roy. He won a scholarship to Yale where he excelled academically and was a standout at football and lacrosse. After graduation, he was selected by the U.S. ambassador to Mexico to travel to the University of Mexico and start an American-style football team. He coached that team for two years before returning to Yale to become the freshman football head coach. In 1933, he became varsity head coach but his 4-4 record disappointed alumni and he was replaced before the start of the 1934 season. 

He stayed on at Yale for eight more years as a coach and instructor. After Yale, he became athletic director at Hillhouse High School, where mentored a young football player by the name of Levi Jackson. Jackson would become Yale's first African-American football player and eventually Ford Motor Company's first African-American executive.

"I had no idea about what an influence Reggie Root was," Mangefrida said. "Not only was he a good player here. He was an all-star student. ... He was just an outstanding individual and I never knew anything about him."

"A Knight's Journey" was inspired by a book about Cal-Mum's program but the authors wanted to go deeper, telling the stories of the young men and coaches who passed through the program, Bonacquisti. 

The stories come together to weave a tale of Oatkan Knights' football from its beginning in 1897 through today.

"The other thing which was really cool was to listen to what former players had to say about their coaches," Bonacquisti said. "There are some funny stories but maybe more important is how prominent they (the coaches) were in their lives, even if it was only two years, three years, four years; what a positive effect that the coaches here had on young man's life. That's pretty cool."

To make arrangements to purchase a copy of the book, email Bonacquisti at jbona2333@yahoo.com.

Grand Jury: Man with lengthy criminal history indicted for March robbery of Arby's

By Billie Owens

Michael J. Piasta Jr. is indicted for the crime of second-degree robbery, a Class C violent felony. It is alleged that on March 25 at the Arby's restaurant in Batavia, located at 212 W. Main St., that the defendant forcibly stole property and in the course of the commission of a crime or in the immediate flight from it, he allegedly displayed what appeared to be a pistol, revolver or other firearm. In count two, he is indicted for third-degree grand larceny, a Class D felony, for allegedly stealing property on that date that had a value exceeding $3,000. In count three, Piasta is accused of criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, a second Class D felony, for allegedly possession an imitation pistoal with the intent to use it unlawfully against another person. In Special Information filed by the District Attorney, Piasta is accused of having been convicted of: third-degree burglary, a Class D felony, on Dec. 20, 2010, in Genesee County Court; petit larceny, a Class A misdemeanor, on Sept. 7, 2010, in City of Batavia Court; attempted petit larceny, a Class B misdemeanor, on Jan. 18, 2011, in Town of Batavia Court; attempted failure to pay for service, based on stealth, a Class B misdemeanor, on May 1, 2002, City of Batavia Court; petit larceny again, on July 19, 2001, in City of Batavia Court; and criminal mischief in the fourth degree, a Class A misdemeanor, on April 5, 2001, in City of Batavia Court. These convictions form the basis for Count Three in the current indictment.

Lamont L. Crimes is indicted for the crime second-degree assault, a Class D violent felony. It is alleged that on May 28 in the Town of Elba that, with intent to cause physical injury to another person, Crimes caused injury to another person using a dangerous instrument -- a knife. In count two, the defendant is accused of the same crime involving a second victim.

Jaomi Delgado is indicted for the crime of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, a Class B felony. It is alleged that on Dec. 20 in the City of Batavia that Delgado knowingly and unlawfully possessed one or more preparations, compounds, mixtures or substances containing a narcotic -- cocaine -- and these were of an aggregate weight of one-half ounce or more.

Katelyn M. Bennett is indicted from the crime of driving while intoxicated as a Class E felony. It is alleged that on April 11 in the Town of Bergen that Bennett drove a 2011 Chevrolet on state routes 33 and/or 19 while intoxicated. In count two, she is accused of aggravated DWI, per se, as a Class E felony for allegedly having a BAC of .18 or more at the time. In counts three and four, the defendant is accused of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, Class A misdemeanors, for allegedly knowingly and unlawfully possessing, respectively, concentrated cannibas and alprazolam (Xanax). In count five, Bennett is accused of unlawful fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle in the third degree, another Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count five that she knew she had been directed to stop by a police officer or marked police vehicle and she attempted to flee at speeds which equaled or exceeded 25 mph above the speed limit, or she engaged in reckless driving (VTL 1212). In Special Information filed by the District Attorney, Bennett is accused of having been convicted of operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs, as a misdemeanor, on Dec. 20, 2011, in the Town of Gates and that conviction was within 10 years of the crimes alleged in the current indictment.

Brent J. Chapman is indicted for the crime of driving while intoxicated as a Class E felony. It is alleged that on May 11 in the Town of Le Roy that Chapman drove a 2006 Lincoln on I-90 while intoxicated. In Special Information filed by the District Attorney, the defendant is accused of having been convicted for misdemeanor DWI on March 8, 2016, in the Town of Greece, and that convicted is within 10 years of the crime alleged in the current indictment.

Paul D. Fields Jr. is indicted for the crime of driving while intoxicated, as a misdemeanor. It is alleged that on Feb. 7 in the Town of Pembroke that Fields drove a 2002 Saturn eastbound on Indian Falls Road while intoxicated. In count two, he is accused of DWI, per se, as a misdemeanor, for allegedly having a BAC of .08 or more at the time. In count three, Fields is accused of aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree, a Class E felony, for knowing or having reason to know that his driver's license was suspended, revoked or otherwise withdrawn by authorities at the time. In Special Information filed by the District Attorney, Fields is accused of having been convicted of DWI on April 10, 2006, in City of Batavia Court. That conviction forms the basis for Count Three of the current indictment.

Law and Order: Driver charged with DWI after rollover accident

By Howard B. Owens

Carl Bruce James Miller, 26, of Attica Road, Darien, is charged with DWI, leaving the scene of a property damage accident, and failure to keep right. Miller was charged following an investigation by Deputy Ryan Young into a rollover accident reported at 2 a.m. Sunday on Harper Road, Darien. There were two occupants in the vehicle at the time and were transported to ECMC for evaluation of minor injuries.

A 17-year-old resident of County Line Road, Darien, is charged with unlawful dealing with a child. At 3:41 a.m. on July 7, deputies responded to County Line Road, Darien, to investigate a report of an intoxicated male trespassing on a residential property. The youth charged was later accused of hosting a party at his residence where he provided alcohol to individuals under age 21. 

Nathan Adam Millar, 30, of Church Street, Alexander, is charged with harassment, 2nd. Millar allegedly struck another person during a disagreement.

Roy Watson Jr., 29, of Bank Street, Batavia, is charged with a criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th. Watson was allegedly found in possession of a small quantity of cocaine at 2:30 a.m. Sunday at a location on Main Street, Le Roy.

Michael Arthur Brade, 34, of Olyn Avenue, of Batavia, is charged with sex offender failure to report change. Brade, a Level 3 sex offender, is accused of creating a new email account and not notifying authorities within 10 days. Batavia PD opened an investigation after being alerted by a parole officer.

Matthew I. Diers, 34, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with sex offender failure to report change. Diers, a Level 2 sex offender, is accused of creating a Facebook account and email address and failing to report it to authorities within 10 days. Batavia PD was alerted to the accounts by a parole officer.

New paddleboat service debuts during Oatka Festival

By Howard B. Owens

When Jay Beaumont and his partners decided to buy the Eagle Hotel in Le Roy in 2012 and open the Smokin' Eagle BBQ & Brew, Beaumont immediately noticed that the Eagle's back property line included access to the Oatka Creek.

His first thought: Paddleboats.

For the first few years of the Smokin' Eagle, Beaumont had many other restoration projects to work on in the old tavern and hotel at 9 Main St. His idea was to build a wooden dock and that, he figured, would be a lot of work.

As Bill Farmer's restoration project of the Creekside Inn at 1 Main St. progressed, Beaumont put his idea on hold.

"As Farmer started to pick up the pieces, he told me he would build us access to the creek," Beaumont said. "What he built was the Taj Mahal down there. He really advanced my idea."

With further research, Beaumont found a pre-built plastic dock that could be floated into place. That was installed this past Thursday, just in time for annual Oatka Festival and the Eagle's inaugural Paddleboat Regatta.

The regatta started with just enough hardy sailors to power five paddle boats. By the end of the first race, there were enough new entrants for a second race, and by the end of the third, enough for a fourth race. The top two teams from each race then faced off in a finals race.

"It was really exciting," Beaumont said. "It was a big hit."

Beaumont has hired some high school students to help get customers on and off the boats and a college student to manage the business.

"The kids did a great job," Beaumont said. "It's a chance for them to get experience in a small business but it's also fun. What could be a more fun job? What kid wouldn't want to do it?"

The dock also includes a kayak ramp so any kayaker on the creek can stop at the Eagle or the Creekside Inn for a drink, snacks or a meal.

Besides paddleboats, the concession rents kayaks.

Paddleboats are $20 an hour with a weight limit of 460 pounds and children must wear a life vest.

Kayaks are $10 an hour.

For kayakers who want to dock their own kayaks to visit the restaurants, there is a $10 fee, which helps cover the cost of dockside staff assisting the boaters, but the customers will receive a $5 voucher for the Smokin' Eagle.

Beaumont said the service will be open from 11 a.m. to dusk every day of the week, but those hours may be adjusted as they learn to gauge demand.

Rentals will not be available during times of heavy water flow on the creek for safety reasons.

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