Former Rochester Mayor Gerald La Valle started the first “Battle of the Bridge” with Mayor Antoline in 1988. He was mayor of the Rochester Boro from 1975-1989 and is now a retired Pennsylvania State Senator. He was also a school teacher, baseball coach, and guidance counselor as well as the head football coach for Rochester for 20 years. He has held many community and political positions including Council President, Mayor, County Commissioner, County Board Chairman, and State Senator.