OLEAN, N.Y. — The Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce and its Taste of Olean Event Committee have announced its thirteenth class of inductees to the Taste of Olean Hospitality Wall of Fame Awards program: D.J. Butchello, John Cappelletti, and the late Larry Chiarenza. The Hospitality Wall of Fame recognizes individuals and/or businesses who have made a significant contribution and given exceptional service to the food service/ hospitality industry in the past and who may continue to do so.
John Cappelletti has served the Olean community and surrounding area in the food service for over 30 plus years. He has worked with prominent restaurants and restaurateurs, including at the Roman Villa in Bradford, Pa., in addition to opening and owning his own restaurants.
Daniel “D.J.” Butchello Jr. was born in to the restaurant business as his grandfather Guerino “Butch” Butchello and his father Daniel J. Butchello Sr. created the famed Castle Restaurant in The Castle was noted for its food and hospitality; in turn the company started bottling many of the spaghetti sauces and the famous Loretto salad dressing.
Born Dec. 8, 1938, in Bradford, Pa., Larry Chiarenza was the son of Joseph A. Chiarenza and Julia Patuto. Chiarenza graduated from high school in Kenmore, and moved to Olean in 1962. He resided on 12th St. most of his life and also lived in the Olean House Apartments for two years prior to moving to The Pines in 2003. He had been employed for many years as a dishwasher at Hastas Restaurant on North Union Street where he enjoyed conversations with his many friends. He was a volunteer for area sporting events including the Olean Midget Football League and as a scorekeeper for the Olean City Softball League. He was also a huge St. Bonaventure University basketball fan. He belonged to St. Mary of the Angels Church, was a frequent visitor to Tom’s News Stand, and he also enjoyed spending time in the Public Library. In 2004 he received the Olean Chamber of Commerce Good News Award in the Senior category.
Chiarenza is a genuine Olean legend that worked as a waiter, bus boy, host, dishwasher and sports guru at Hastas Restaurant in Olean. The area that he excelled in was creating an inviting atmosphere at Hastas and was a very friendly and inquisitive staff member.
The winners of the Taste of Olean Hospitality Awards will be recognized during the 29th Annual Taste of Olean, held July 28 at the War Veterans Park, 551 East State Street, Olean, 2 p.m.
