File Photo of Aubrey Puccio of Stafford Photo by Howard Owens
Le Roy High School senior Aubrey Puccio demonstrated fan appeal during preliminary rounds of competition for Stars of Tomorrow NYC Bound, a Rochester Broadway Theatre League press release states.
The 18-year-old performer was voted a Fan Favorite in event sponsor WROC News 8’s poll conducted in conjunction with the local competition, the release stated.
Puccio was one of 40 finalists chosen out of nearly 300 students to compete for the Rochester area this week, taking the stage at West Herr Auditorium Theatre Thursday as part of the National High School Musical Theater Awards local competition.
Tessa Meyers and Ian Royse, both from Greece Arcadia, were chosen to go on and compete among more than 100 other student performers from across the country. Perhaps better known as the Jimmy Awards, the national high school musical awards are to be presented June 23 at the Minskoff Theatre in New York City.
John Bolton celebrates his Lifetime Achievement award and Key to Le Roy on Sunday afternoon at Le Roy High School, while Evan Williams, background, joins the applause. Photo by Howard Owens.
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."
John Bolton and Jim Bonacquisti during the key presentation. Photo by Howard Owens.
John Bolton Photo by Howard Owens.
MIllie Tomidy-Pepper Photo by Howard Owens.
Following the ceremony, Bolton was swamped by well-wishers. Photo by Howard Owens.
Jack Diskin, Andrew Tomidy, Evan WIlliams, and Nathan Yauchzee. Photo by Howard Owens.
Hailey Grasso, Aubrey Puccio, and Suzanne Scott. Photo by Howard Owens.
Nathan Yauchzee Photo by Howard Owens.
Taste of Le Roy following the ceremony. Participating restaurants were Capish!, Henry’s Deli, Kade's Scratch Kitchen, Le Roy Country Club, Mama Chavez, McPherson's Tree-To-Tin Bakery, The Red Osier Landmark Restaurant, Settlers Select, and The Smokin’ Eagle BBQ & Grill. Photo by Howard Owens.
The Class of 2022 faced some difficult challenges but rose to the task, said Valedictorian Allison Privatera at Le Roy High School's commencement ceremony on Saturday.
"Against all odds, the COVID-19 pandemic prepared us for college curriculum, proved that we’re more resilient than we thought, and reminded us that while this year had its associated stress and grief, it could have been significantly worse," Privatera said.
She also had advice for the students coming up behind her class.
"To address our underclassmen, the main piece of advice I can give is to put in the time and effort to set yourself up for success, and that life really loves messing up your well-articulated plans, so don’t cling onto one too hard," she said.
Ninety-four Oatkan Knights received their diplomas during the ceremony.
Principal David Russell said that 23 of the graduates were heading off to two-year colleges, 50 are going to four-year schools, 13 have been hired or are entering the workforce, and one graduate is entering a four-year program connected to the military.
He quoted stoic philosopher Seneca: "Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end."
"In life, there will always be conclusions and celebrations. These can include graduation and other of life's milestones," Russell said. I encourage you to do like we did today (earlier in his speech) and take a moment to reflect on what you accomplished in that journey."
Former principal Tim McArdle was selected by the Class of 2022 to deliver the keynote address.
McArdle shared his 10 bits of life advice:
Start every day with a win: make your bed.
Surround yourself with people who will be the best version of yourself.
Be willing to step out of your comfort zone.
Give back to your community.
Don’t settle for anything in your life.
Be present.
Take care of yourself physically and mentally.
Inspire and be inspired.
Be you.
Once a knight, always a knight.
"No matter where life’s journey takes you after this day, remember you are always a knight," McArdle said. "This school, this community, the alumni, and now your own class, are in your corner and ready to pick you up when you need it. They will always be here when you need them. Growing up here is special and sometimes taken for granted, but this is an unbelievable community that, regardless of your travels, you can always call it home."
Top photo: Valedictorian Allison Privatera.
Photos by Howard Owens.
Tim McArdle
Salutatorian Allyson Austin
The graduation ceremony was Trustee Denise Duthe's last official act as a member of the Board of Education.
Seniors in the school band performed between the speeches by the Salutatorian and valedictorian.
Last evening at Le Roy High School the Oatkan Lady Knights advanced to the Class B2 quarter finals with a win over Attica Blue Devils 69-57. The Knights jumped out to a 12-point lead 27-15 led by Bryn Luckey and a three-pointer from each Hailey Johnson and Jillian Curtis.
Through the second quarter, Attica held better defense and juniors McKenna Jarnot and Mary Weber both added three-point buckets to keep the Blue Devils in the half only down by 10 points.
The Knights held a strong defense keeping Attica’s top scorer McKenna Jarnot scoreless in the quarter, which kept the momentum scoring points from Luckey, Condidorio and Logsdon. Score 52-37 after three quarters.
Attica, backed against defeat, did not give up and Jarnot hit four three-pointers in the final quarter to bring the Devils within six points. But the Knights sophomore guard Kailyn Tresco answered back with two three-point buckets of her own.
Le Roy’s Brynn Luckey finished with 25 points; Amara Condidorio and Kailyn Tresco each had nine points. McKenna Jarnot scored 21 points, Weber 13 points for the Attica Blue Devils.
The Le Roy Knights play this Friday against second seed Avon on their home court, game time 7 p.m.
The DECA International Career Development Conference (ICDC) is the culmination of the DECA year. More than 19,000 high school students, teacher-advisors, business professionals, and alumni gather in Orlando, Fla., April 27-30 for DECA excitement.
One of the students participating is from Le Roy High School -- Ethan Smith, who is a senior.
DECA (formerly known as Distributive Education Clubs of America) members demonstrate their college and career ready knowledge and skills by participating in DECA’s industry-validated Competitive Events Program, aligned with Career Clusters, National Curriculum Standards, and 21st Century Skills in the areas of marketing, finance, hospitality, management and entrepreneurship.
These members have qualified to attend based on superior performance at the district and association levels. More than 1,000 business professionals serve as expert judges to evaluate DECA members’ mastery of these concepts.
Thousands of DECA advisors and educators participate in administering DECA’s Competitive Events Program and Emerging Leader Series while also participating in professional learning activities.
“I am very excited that in our first year of running a DECA Chapter we have a member advancing to ICDC," said Sarah Ford, DECA advisor at Le Roy High School. "I have gained a wealth of knowledge from the regional and state levels; now I am looking forward to gaining even more through advisor workshops and the overall experience at the ICDC.
"I am very proud of all of our DECA members this year and I am looking forward to Ethan’s participation at ICDC! As a chapter we are very appreciative of all the support our organization has received, especially from our administration, Board of Education, and the generous people and organizations who have donated throughout the year.
"With their support, all of these great opportunities became possible for our students here at Le Roy Jr.-Sr. High School!”
Ethan said "I am looking forward to representing my school at DECA ICDC. DECA allowed me to explore careers in the business field and help me decide my major and desired career path.”
“We are so proud to be represented at ICDC in our first year of DECA this year by Ethan and Mrs. Ford," said Le Roy Principal Tim McArdle. "This is such a huge opportunity and launching pad for Ethan who has worked very hard to put himself in this situation.
"The exposure at this level will also be very beneficial for Mrs. Ford to bring back vital knowledge to continue to grow our DECA program and send our students to this international competition. This is yet another example of the potential of our Oatkan Knights and when given opportunity how they rise to the occasion.”
Ethan will be competing in the Financial Consulting event at DECA ICDC. He is planning on attending Drexel University in Philadelphia and majoring in Finance.
The sixth annual Traditional Martial Arts Association Tournament will be held at the Le Roy High School Gym Saturday, Nov. 3rd, with eliminations starting at 10 a.m.
The Tournament will consist of Sparring (point fighting), Individual Kata (forms), Team Kata, Weapons Kata, and Self Defense.
Tournament organizers are Soke William Cavalier (Livonia Tatsu Do School), Hanshi Dick Borrell (Borrell’s Karate Academy Batavia), and Renshi Fred Merica (Le Roy Karate & Self Defense Center/ Main Street Fitness). All three have been close associates and tournament/clinic organizers for the past 40 years.
Ages of competitors will start as young as 4 years old with no age limit. We have had competitors in the past well into their 70s. Divisions are broken down by skill level and age.
Spectators are welcome at $5 each and students at $4 each.
The high school is located at 9300 South Street Road, Le Roy.
To see a flier go to www.tatsudo.com and click the link at left of page “November 2018 TMAA Tournament - Download Flyer” or call 585-414-3181.
There will also be a breaking demonstration at noon. They break everything from boards, bricks, coconuts, and Louisville Sluggers with their shins.
Anyone interested to help be a scorekeeper please calls 585-414-3181 for more information, minimum 15 years old, no experience needed.
Submitted photos and press release from Pat Iamon.
On June 21, during the Le Roy High School awards night, the premier Rochelle "Willie" Wilson Award was presented to the inaugural recipient, Haley Scripp.
The award was initiated by Tom White, and after a few emails many members of his Class of 1970, reciprocated with donations and a vow to continue this tribute in honor of one of their most loved classmates, Rochelle “Willie” Wilson.
The Class of 1970 was the largest class ever at LHS, however, Wilson stood out. She was regarded highly by both her classmates and the faculty and was a friend of everyone.
White spoke during awards night about Wilson and how she was respected by everyone.
He said, “She was a great athlete and a great person, but almost no one but the people from class knew that because the only place she could display her talent was on the playground. Willie unfortunately missed out on what is now called 'Title Nine' (AKA Title IX) -- which requires collages to give equal scholarships to men and women.
"No doubt Willie would have received an athletic scholarship if her talent and character had been seen.”
White talked of becoming an adult during such turbulent times. The Vietnam War, race riots and women demanding equal rights were constantly in the forefront and shown graphically on TV during the evening news.
Unfortunately, there were no organized women sports for Wilson. Following high school, Wilson joined the Army and served her country. She moved to Alabama had a daughter, Naomi, and lived quietly.
Wilson died of lung disease in January of 2014, believed to be the result of serving overseas during the burning of oil fields in the Middle East (Kuwait, 1990-).
Patty McQuillen Daansen, another member of the Class of 1970, summarized what the annual award is and announced the winner who was nominated by teachers and administrators. A committee from the Class of 1970 chose the debut recipient. The award was presented to Scripp by White and Daansen.
Scripp was described by her teachers as a terrific student, outstanding athlete, a kind personality and a pleasure to be around.
She will be attending RIT and majoring in Mechanical Engineering Technology in the fall.
Scripp will was given a plaque acknowledging the award. Her name will be entered as the first recipient of the Rochelle “Willie” Wilson Award plaque, which will remain in the LHS hallway.
Scripp will receive her $500 from the award upon successful completion of her first semester of college.
Photo below, from left: Haley Scripp, the first recipient of the Rochelle “Willie” Wilson Award, with LRHS Class of 1970's Tom White and Patty McQuillen Daansen.
The Le Roy Oatkan Knights Sports Hall of Fame, Inc., announces the 2016 Class of Inductees.
The ceremony is on Friday morning, July 15th, at the Le Roy High School Auditorium. It is free and open to the public. Casual attire. Doors open at 9 with light refreshments served. The Ceremony begins at 10 a.m.
Live music will be provided by the Le Roy Town Band, under the director of Maria Neale. Among the tunes to be performed are: "The Le Roy Alma Mater," "Star-spangled Banner," and "On LeRoyans."
For more information, visit www.leroyhalloffame.com or stop by the village and town hall.
Donations are greatly appreciated and are tax-deductible.
Le Roy Oatkan Knights Sports Hall of Fame, Inc., 2016 Inductees:
Once upon a time in a small town and in a small school in Le Roy, a beautiful girl and a stately prince find true love...
The timeless story of love and romance and the triumph of a girl least likely to win the heart of a prince, comes to the stage at Le Roy Junior Senior High School.
Rodgers and Hammerstein's "Cinderella" story will touch the hearts of young and old in this enchanting production reminding today's audience that dreams still come true.
The Le Roy musical will present the classic fairytale in a fresh and exciting way. This isn't just another Cinderella story, but a family friendly event that has surprises around every corner.
Shows are at 7 p.m., March 15, 16 and 17.
The magic wand will be waved and the audience will be dazzled by special effects, a transformation scene, fog and special lighting, and professional costumes rented or borrowed from various theaters.
In addition, the show will trickle into the audience from the stage to create an interactive element as actors and audience blend.
There will be a special gift at the door for all children, birth to third grade, who come to the musical dressed in costumes consistent with the theme of the play.
Almost 100 students make up the cast, crew and pit orchestra being directed by Jacqueline McLean. Stuart McLean is the show's vocal director. Bradley Meholick is the pit orchestra director, and Jessa Dechant is in charge of publicity and public relations.
"Even though this is a small community and small school, the talent is extremely great," McLean said. "These students have put in a lot of hard work and time and they have a fire in their bellies to present."
Senior Grace Kovach plays Cinderella. Grace's younger sister, Margaret Kovach, is the Fairy Godmother and Jayce Seely plays the Prince. Other lead roles, the King and Queen, are played by Tyler Murtha and Miranda Graham.
Sisters Grace and Margaret are excited about their experience acting together on stage.
"Grace and I are sisters, so we can take it the extra step," Margaret said. "This has made us 10 times more close than we already are."
"This is one of the greatest memories I will have of high school," said Grace, who will be graduating this year.
Jayce agrees.
"This production will be memorable because of time spent with new and old friends and the experiences we have had that don't happen everday," Jayce said.
As in any romance story, true love must be sealed with a kiss.
"My mom teases me a bit, but it's fine," Jayce said.
"After all it is just a show," Grace said.
Tickets can be purchased now and you are strongly encourage to buy them ahead of time.
