LeRoy Pennysaver & News

LE ROY PENNYSAVER & NEWS - JULY 28, 2019 Mayor's Corner by Greg “Porp” Rogers As I previously mentioned the When I first became mayor the hot topic was, what to do with the Wiss Hotel. Many opinions were given, by many people, and in the end it was taken down in the interest of public safety. It is always hard to say good bye to something that was such an icon in our community. One factor that we never had to deal with is if we had left it and something tragic would have happened had it fallen down. Recently, I had a discussion with school superintendent Merritt Holly and his and the school board’s decision to take down the tree in front of the library. They did their due diligence and had professionals offer their opinion on what had to be done in the best interest and safety of both students and the community, it would have to come down. We all loved that tree that sat on the campus just above Oatka’s water’s. We came up with the idea to make available the opportunity to let the people have a memento from the iconic tree. VanBurens tree service took the wood chips to our waste water treatment plant. We are going to put a pile of these chips in the school parking lot behind Trigon park, for a couple weeks. Anyone interested in coming and helping themselves to some, you are more than welcome to take some. We recognize this is a small gesture, but if it helps people keep the memory alive of the good times, climbing and sitting under the tree. We wanted to make that available. Thank you to Merritt and the school board on making the tough decision, these types of decisions cause many sleepless nights and second guessing. “Trees are poems the earth write upon the sky” Kahlil Gibran THANK YOU From the 2019 Oatka Festival Committee This past weekend’s weather was perfect as the 31st Annual Oatka Festival took place on Trigon Park in LeRoy. Chairs of people lined the road to watch the parade as regional and international bands performed. Seven LeRoy High School Reunions floated down Main Street. At times it was loud as spectators shouted to old classmates they recognized. The festival brings people together to reminisce and create new memories. For many the fun started early, as the non-profit organizations set up their food booths. This fundraising event brings much needed money to small community organizations - for some to meet their yearly goals. On Saturday, it was National French Fry Day and many people found time to celebrate. Other tasty foods were available, including many of the New York Staples (Beef-on-Weck, Salt Potatoes). Kids of all ages had several entertaining options. Thanks to the LeRoy Recreation Department, many kids enjoyed the bounce obstacle course. For the 2nd year the Car Cruise provided a few eye-popping autos that many enjoyed. The cars wrapped all the way from Main to Summit Street. Music filled the main tent and dancing was not discouraged. As we reflect on the event, we wish to thank everyone who helped make this a success . The community truly gathers the workers for this weekend – and we are grateful. Thank you to LeRoy Police, Fire Department, Town, Village, LeRoy School, Businesses, Sponsors, Vendors, Shoppers and all those that volunteered their time. Without your assistance we would not be able to continue such a wonderful family event! Festival Committee Bob Sullivan, Mary Jo Elmore, Kelly Stalica, Kate Flint, John Doemling, Tina Rauscher, Tara Biggins, Sue Doemling, Jaime Biracree, Becky Elmore, Scott Ripley, Lauren Whiting.