American Legion Botts-Fiorito Post #576

Press release:

The Le Roy American Legion, Botts-Fiorito Post 576 is seeking nominees for selection as the 2021 “LeRoyan of the Year Award”.  This year will mark the 52nd year in which the Award has been presented.

The award is sponsored as part of the four pillars of the American Legion”Americanism” program and recognizes people who demonstrate the following qualities:

• A man or woman who exemplifies the true spirit of Americanism, its ideals, love of flag and country, regardless of race, color or creed;
• Good citizenship by carrying out these principles, often beyond what is expected;
• Service to the community, signified by excellence in a life of purpose and accomplishments.

The deadline for submission of nominations is Saturday, September 11th, 2021

Award Banquet will be held Saturday, October 23, 2021 at 7:00 p.m.

Submitted photo and press release:

The American Legion Auxiliary Unit #576 of Le Roy has selected four girls who are local high school juniors to attend this year's New York Girls State Week, held virtually the week of June 28^th.

Evelyn Babcock and Allison Privatera, both of Le Roy High School, have been selected to attend American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) New York Girls State. Selected as alternates are Samantha Sikora and Alexa Wolcott, both of Pavilion High School.

As part of the premier ALA program, the girls will study local, county and state government processes during this five-day nonpartisan political learning experience. 

The girls were selected to attend Girls State based on selection criteria through Auxiliary unit and/or high school, which includes being in the top third of her class, along with consideration given to scholastic achievements, leadership, character, honesty and physical fitness.  

Representing Genesee County

Allison Privatera is the daughter of Patrick and Maureen Privatera, of Le Roy. Allison is involved in the National Honor Society, Scholastic Bowl, school musicals, Marching Band, Bioinformatics, DECA, Mock Trial, National Flight Academy, and the tennis team. She participates in many clubs, helped multiple times doing community service, and assists at the New Start Kitty Shelter.

Representing Le Roy Unit #576

Evelyn Babcock, of Le Roy High School, is the daughter of Sue Babcock Collier and Mark Babcock. She participates in National Honor Society, Scholastic Bowl, Mathletes, Student Council, Sports Med, Pride and Allies, DECA, Cross County, Volleyball, Indoor & Outdoor Track, Swimming, school musicals, Chorus, and, along with her twin brother, created Knights Academic Access Program. She also participates in Spanish Club and Chess Club as well as helping multiple times doing community service projects.

ALA Girls State attendees, known as “citizens,” receive special instruction in parliamentary procedure and organize themselves into two mock political parties. The young women then campaign, hold rallies, debate, and ultimately vote to elect city, county, and state officials. Once elected to office, delegates are sworn in and perform their prescribed duties. Attendees not elected to office are given appointments and visit the offices of those elected to share their viewpoints as citizens.

Every spring, approximately 25,000 young women across the country are selected to attend ALA Girls State programs in their respective states. Two outstanding citizens from each of the 50 ALA Girls State programs are then chosen to represent their state as “senators” at ALA Girls Nation held in Washington, D.C., in July.

Congratulations Girls!

Photo, from left: Samantha Sikora, of Pavilion High School -- alternate selection; Alexa Wolcott, of Pavilion High School -- alternate selection; Allison Privatera, of Le Roy High School --representing Genesee County; and Evelyn Babcock, of Le Roy High School, representing Le Roy American Legion Auxiliary Unit #576.

Submitted photos and press release:

The American Legion Auxiliary, Unit #734 of Attica, has been busy with this year’s holiday project “Sweats for Our Vets."  

With the generous donations of the organizations of the Harder O’Donnell Post #734; American Legion Auxiliary, A.V.M.A., American Legion, Sons of the American Legion and the assistance of local Attica business owner, Robert Cusmano of Mugs and More, the project quickly came together.  

A donation of 76 zip-up hooded sweatshirts were given to every patient of the Batavia V.A. Medical Center in their gift bags on Christmas morning. 

Also donated by the Auxiliary, was a 55” television for the Veterans Recreation Room. This donation was made in memory of Auxiliary Past President Leilani Spring, who passed away earlier this year.

We would like to thank Volunteer Services Personnel Cindy Baker and Nicholas LaMarca of the Batavia V.A.M.C. for their assistance with our holiday project “Sweats for Our Vets."

A few members of each organization met on Dec. 8^th at the V.A.M.C. to deliver the sweatshirts and television.

The vets were delighted and surprised!

American Legion Auxiliary Unit #734

Harder O’Donnell Post

83 Market St., Attica

Top photo from left: Auxiliary members -- Tammy Soemann, Barbara Eddy, Kathy Roberts, Kate Kellner; Commander Robert Wood; Adjutant Keith Almeter; and S.A.L. members Ralph Eddy and Mike Almeter.

Press release:

“The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month...”

The American Legion Botts-Fiorito Post #576 in Le Roy will observe the annual Veterans Day program as per custom on Wednesday, Nov. 11th at 11 a.m. at the Trigon Memorial Park.

Personnel will assemble at 10:45 at the Trigon Park Soldiers Monument, with the program beginning at 11 a.m. sharp!

Highlights of the program will include readings by Post Commander David Rumsey and Auxiliary President Chris Stewart that will commemorate the significance of the day. This will be followed by a remembrance prayer offered by Chaplain Gary Bassett.

The ceremony will conclude by a placement of the wreath on the Memorial, a volley by the Post Firing Squad and playing of “Taps."

Immediately following the formal ceremony, all are invited to the American Legion hall for refreshments. It is located at 53 W. Main St. in the Village of Le Roy.

UPDATED today, Oct. 30, 2:57 p.m.: Please note that per Gov. Andrew Cuomo's Executive Orders, gathering restrictions are still limited to 50 people. In addition masking and social distancing requirements will be adhered to.

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A Reminder: There is a Difference!

• Armed Forces Day -- The third Saturday of each May -- honors those serving.
• Memorial Day -- The last Monday of each May -- remembers those who died while serving.
• Veterans Day -- The 11th day of each November -- honors those who served.

The Botts-Fiorito American Legion Post #576 this evening honored those who were captured and never returned or lost in war as part of POW/MIA Recognition Day with an empty chair ceremony at their post in Le Roy.

From Jerry Diskin:

Commander David Rumsey announces that at 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18th, there will be a brief ceremony for POW/MIA Recognition Day at the memorial park outside the Botts-Fiorito American Legion Post #576, located at 53 W. Main St. Village of Le Roy.

What is National POW/MIA Recognition Day?

The United States’ National POW/MIA Recognition Day is observed across the nation on the third Friday of September each year. Many Americans take the time to remember those who were prisoners of war (POW) and those who are missing in action (MIA), as well as their families.

The event will begin at 6 o'clock sharp! with a brief ceremony, presenting the “POW/MIA” Missing Man table ceremony, followed by a salute from the Color Guard and Firing Squad.

All are welcome to attend. "For God and Country..." 

Le Roy's American Legion Botts-Fiorito Post #576 is having a chicken BBQ fundraiser from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22nd -- presale only.

Tickets are $12 each and available at the Post, located at 53 W. Main St. in the Village, Aug. 18th, 19th and 20th between 4-7:30 p.m.

Pay cash or check payable to Le Roy Servicemen's Club, or by credit card -- VISA or Mastercard -- or by calling (585) 721-7801.

More than 1,500 flags received by the local veterans' groups were piled several feet high at the Northwoods Sportsman's Club on Sunday afternoon and given a dignified retirement as prescribed by the U.S. Flag Code.

Title IV, Section 8(k) states, “The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem of display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.”

The event was organized by the Botts Fiorito American Legion Post #576 in Le Roy and Commander Dave Rumsey thanked Bill Joyce, Genesee County Veterans Service Officer, and the Legion posts in Bergen and Caledonia and the VFW post in Caledonia, each of which provided their communities with a flag deposit box. 

Photos by Philip Casper.

From the Commander of the American Legion Botts-Fiorito Post #576, Le Roy:

It is with a deep sense of regret that the Commander and Post members announce the cancellation of the 2020 Annual Memorial Day Parade, originally scheduled for May 25.

Due to social uncertainty surrounding this date, it is felt that it is in the best interest of the safety and well-being of all involved to cancel the celebration at this time.

This decision did not come lightly, nor without the consideration of the involvement of so many individuals, organizations, and entertainment providers.

The Post members are developing a simple, but significant program that will serve to observe the holiday that was created to honor the many American men and women who died in military service.

We, like several other organizations in the area are taking this same action. There is just too much uncertainty and risk at this point (due to the coronavirus pandemic), and not enough confidence that to continue with the program would be in the best interest of all involved.

Photo, from left: Delcina Cassidy, Courtney George, Catherine Long and Mikayla Hickey.

Submitted photo and press release:

The American Legion Auxiliary Unit #576 of Le Roy has selected four local high school juniors girls to attend this years Empire Girls State week held at SUNY Brockport the week of June 28^th.

Delcina Cassidy of Le Roy High School, Catherine Long of Le Roy High School, Mikayla Hickey of Alexander High School and Courtney George of Pavilion High School have been selected to attend American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) New York Girls State.

As part of the premier ALA program, the girls will study local, county, and state government processes during this five-day nonpartisan political learning experience. 

The girls were selected to attend Girls State based on selection criteria through Auxiliary unit and/or high school, which includes being in the top third of her class, along with consideration given to scholastic achievements, leadership, character, honesty and physical fitness.  

Delcina is the daughter of Glenn and Delcina Cassidy. She is involved in the National Honor Society, school musicals, cross country team, indoor and outdoor track. Participates in many clubs, helped multiple times during community service, and assists at the Community Kitchen.

Catherine is the daughter of Rob and Julie Long. She participates in National Honor Society, Scholastic Bowl, Math Team, Emerging Knights, Chorus, Band, Marching Band, Eastman Honors Wind Ensemble, Hochstein Youth Wind Symphony and also helped multiple times doing community service projects.

Mikayla is the daughter of Mike and Cherie Hickey. She participates in many activities in her school and community, including National Honor Society, Ace/Stem program at Genesee Community College, HOBY 2019 member, Math Team, Mock Trial, band, plays soccer, softball, and is a student rep for the 2019 Alexander Building Project Board. She also volunteers at her church, participates in the wrestling tournament and the Alexander’s Outdoor classroom.

Courtney is the daughter of Tracie Rowland and Michael George. She is active in her school and community, including National Honor Society, Youth Leaders Conference, Students Against Destructive Decisions, Spanish Club, Future Farmers of America, and she plays volleyball, softball and is active in her community with Food Link and a member of the Girls Service League.

ALA Girls State attendees, known as “citizens,” receive special instruction in parliamentary procedure and organize themselves into two mock political parties.

The young women then campaign, hold rallies, debate, and ultimately vote to elect city, county, and state officials. Once elected to office, delegates are sworn in and perform their prescribed duties.

Attendees not elected to office are given appointments and visit the offices of those elected to share their viewpoints as citizens.

Every spring, approximately 25,000 young women across the country are selected to attend ALA Girls State programs in their respective states. Two outstanding citizens from each of the 50 ALA Girls State programs are then chosen to represent their state as “senators” at ALA Girls Nation held in Washington, D.C. in July.

Congratulations girls!

"Thank You!" -- The Le Roy Botts-Fiorito American Legion Post 576 has generously donated $2,100 to be put toward the purchase of a van for the Disabled American Veterans -- Batavia Chapter 166.

The vehicle is needed so volunteers for the DAV Transportation Network (part of the Veterans Administration of Western New York Healthcare System) can drive disabled vets to their healthcare appointments.

Pictured are Doug Titus, DAV van coordinator, left, and Le Roy Legionnaire John Graney.

Submitted photo and information.

DeFazio has been a resident of Le Roy since his marriage to is wife Elizabeth (Lee) Costa, 46 years ago. They have two daughters, Christina (Tim) Carvel and Stacy (Jason) Wentworth, and six grandchildren, Brayden, Nolan, Matthew, Addison, Tyler and Dominic.

DeFazio is a graduate of Notre Dame High School and has a Associate of Applied Science degree from Genesee Community College.

He has been active with many school programs, including PTA and the Le Roy Sports Boosters. He was one the of the first coaches for the Le Roy Youth Soccer and also coached Le Roy Youth Football and Le Roy Little League. He has always been a strong supporter of Le Roy Athletics, supporting his daughters during their involvement, and still continuing to cheer on the local teams.

He has been a member and served on the board of the Le Roy Jaycees, Knights of Columbus Edward Powers Council 2936, the Le Roy Historical Society (currently oversees all the building maintenance ), and Le Roy Christian Community Project. He was also on the Oatka Festival Committee for several years.

He is an active member of the Our Lady of Mercy Parish.

DeFazio also serves his community by being elected as a councilman for Town of Le Roy and at one time was its deputy supervisor. He also serves as a member of the Genesee County Parks and Water Commission.

To honor him, the 51^th annual LeRoyan of the Year Award Dinner will be held on Oct. 26. Social hour is at 6 p.m. with dinner served at 6:45 p.m., at the American Legion at 53 W. Main St, Le Roy. Tickets are available at the American Legion or at Mickel’s Nickels, 80 Lake St., Le Roy. Cost is $25 per ticket.

Information and photo submitted by Joan Fernaays.

On Saturday, Botts-Fiorito American Legion Post #576, hosted the American Warrior Festival, organized by Dan Clor, leader of the rock band Weapon-X. The party included a cornhole tournament, open bowling, and later in the night, live rock-'n'-roll.

Le Roy Village Mayor Greg Rogers, Poppy Girl 2019 Celeste Vescovi, and Le Roy Town Supervisor Steve Barbeau.

Submitted photo and press release:

The Botts-Fiorito American Legion Post #576 has selected the 2019 Poppy Girl, who will be featured in the upcoming Memorial Day Parade in Le Roy on Monday, May 27.

Little Miss Celeste Vescovi will reign as this year's Poppy Girl. She is a kindergartener at Wolcott Street School in Le Roy.

Celeste is the daughter of Sara and John Vescovi and granddaughter of Barb and John Vescovi and Christa Coulon. Also she is the great-granddaughter of the late Don Vescovi (Clarky), past commander and adjutant of Botts-Fiorito Post 576.

Celeste enjoys dance, bowling and singing, especially karaoke; also reading is a favorite pastime.

You can meet Celeste in Le Roy on Memorial Day -- at the American Legion Post, and distributing traditional red crepe paper poppies at Tops Market (128 W. Main St.).

The symbolic flower is given out by the American Legion Auxiliary to raise money and to commemorate the sacrifice of so may men and women who have died fighting for their country. (To learn more about the American Legion Auxiliary Poppy Program, click here.)

Le Roy's Memorial Day Parade will be held on May 27th, starting at the American Legion (53 W. Main St.) at 10:30 a.m., and ceremonies will follow at 11 o'clock in Trigon Park.

For previous coverage on 2019 Memorial Day plans in Le Roy, click here.

Notice of Memorial Day events in Le Roy from the Botts-Fiorito American Legion Post #576:

Remembering the War Dead:

Memorial Day services will be conducted on Monday, May 27, at two community cemeteries, starting at Machpelah on North Street at 8 a.m., followed by St. Francis, located on the south side of Exchange Street.

The Post Chaplain will conduct the respective services, followed at each location with a volley by the Firing Squad in recognition of the deceased veterans.

Parade Schedule:

• Parade forms at 9:45 a.m. in the American Legion parking lot, 53 W. Main St.;
• Parade “steps off” at 10:30 a.m. SHARPLY, proceeds to Trigon Park.

Ceremonies at Trigon Park:

• Introduction and “Welcome” by the Post Commander, John Graney;
• Invocation reading by the Post Chaplain, Gary Bassett;
• Singing of the “National Anthem” by Mary Brady;
• Introduction of the 2019 “Poppy Girl” -- Celeste Vescovi;
• Memorial Day Guest Speaker: Town Supervisor Steve Barbeau;
• Dedication of Korean War Veterans Bench -- Lynne Belluscio and John Graney;
• Reading of names and placement of flags for veterans who have passed over the past year;
• Placement of wreath on the Monument -- Commander Graney, Auxiliary President Marlene McCumiskey;
• Musical selections by the Le Roy High School Band;
• Closing with the playing of “Taps” and volley by the Firing Squad;
• Benediction and closing by the Post Chaplain;
• Singing of “God Bless America” led by Mary Brady.

As per tradition, all are cordially invited to the American Legion Post Home, 53 W. Main St. for free hot dogs and a soft drink immediately following the ceremonies.

Botts-Fiorito Post #576, American Legion, Le Roy, would like to announce with great pride and pleasure Robert Boyce as its selection for the 2018 “LeRoyan of the Year Award.”

Robert, or “Bob” as he is known to most, was born in Hamburg and graduated from Hamburg High School. Upon completion of high school, he joined the Army and served in Korea, after which he was honorably discharged. He then continued his education at The University of Buffalo.

Bob came to Le Roy with his family in 1968 to join the Ernest Townsend & Son Insurance Agency, now known as Tompkins Insurance Agencies. He and his wife, Beth, have three children, daughters Ann (Alan) Nordyke, and Tracey (Jim) Carter, and son David Boyce. They also have six grandchildren.

Bob immediately became active in the community by first joining the Le Roy Jaycees. Today, he continues service with the Le Roy Rotary Club, where he has been active for 45 years and served as president in 1975. The R.E.A. Milne Scholarship arm of the Rotary is of special interest to him.

He was president of the Genesee Community College Foundation for three years, was appointed a trustee of GCC by the Genesee County Legislature in 2014, and presently serves as vice-chairman on the Le Roy Republican Committee. Bob is also one of two trustees of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church.

Bob has also been a member of the board of the Le Roy Ambulance Service for 27 years and has been president for the past 13 years. One of his goals for the ambulance service is to make sure it continues to be a viable service in our community with quality pre-hospital care.

To honor Bob, the 50th annual LeRoyan of the Year Award Dinner will be held on Oct. 6. Social hour is at 6 p.m. with dinner served at 6:45 p.m., at the American Legion at 53 W. Main St., Le Roy.  Tickets are available at the American Legion or at Mickel’s Nickels at 80 Lake St. Le Roy. Cost is $25 per ticket.