The Odessa File: Business of Schuyler County

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WATKINS GLEN, June 15 -- Sheldon Harmon has been named intern curator and manager of the Franklin Street Gallery and Gift Shop, a new community arts center in Watkins Glen.

Harmon will operate the gallery under the supervision of its administrative coordinator, Misty Jones. The Gallery is expected to open during the week of June 22.

Harmon, who will be a senior this fall studying animation at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, will graduate next year with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. As curator and manager, Harmon will develop operational procedures and organize displays through the summer and build the base for continuing these operations throughout the year.

The Gallery, at 209 Franklin St., will operate under the auspices of The Arc of Schuyler. It will display and sell works by local and regional artists.

According to an Arc press release, The Gallery "is committed to a philosophy of diversity and education, and promotes participation from people of all cultural and ethnic backgrounds." It will be available for workshops, educational programs, readings and entertainment events. It will also sell gift items and products by local and regional artists and craftspeople.

Volunteers are needed to serve on The Gallery’s Advisory Committee, tend the gallery during operating hours, help organize and hang exhibitions and help with special events. Artists are invited to submit works for consideration for display and sale in The Gallery. All participating artists must sign a consignment agreement with the gallery.

For more information on volunteering, or to submit works for consideration, contact Misty Jones at (607) 535-6934 or e-mail mjones@arcofschuyler.org.

WATKINS GLEN, June 5 -- The Arc of Schuyler has announced the hiring of John P. Cleary to the position of Marketing Assistant.

Cleary will facilitate the organization's internal and external communications, work on special projects and serve as a member of the organization's management team.

Cleary was a reporter and columnist for the Star-Gazette newspaper for 14 years. In his most recent position, he served as a volunteer recruiter and trainer for an in-school mentoring program in Elmira. He lives in Elmira with his wife and children.

"We are very pleased to have John Cleary join our team here at The Arc," said Jim Wilson, executive director of The Arc. "John brings a wealth of both personal and professional experience that will serve The Arc and the Schuyler County community well." Wilson indicated that Cleary will be accessible and involved in the community in general.

Cleary may be reached at (607) 535-6934, ext. 128, or by e-mail at jcleary@arcofschuyler.org.

The Arc of Schuyler provides supports for people with disabilities and their families. For more information on its programs, visit www.arcofschuyler.org.

WATKINS GLEN, June 3 -- The Business and Education Committee of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce will host its next Small Business Roundtable, Eggs at Eight, on Tuesday, June 9th at 8:00 a.m. at Tobe’s Breakfast House and Bakery on the corner of Fourth and Decatur Street, Watkins Glen.

The topic of this month’s roundtable is “Employee Retention” and will be facilitated by Terra Ellis, the store manager of the WalMart SuperCenter in Watkins Glen. Ellis will be offering the group a reminder that: to have happy customers; you need to have happy, satisfied associates.

The cost of the session is $10 per person and includes a full breakfast of one’s choice. Seating is limited and reservations are appreciated, but not required.

For more information or to reserve, contact the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce at 607-535-4300 or email rebekah@watkinsglenchamber.com.

ROMULUS, May 28 -- Knapp Winery recently won eight medals in the Tasters Guild International Wine Judging and four medals in the New World International Wine Competition.

In the Tasters Guild judging, Knapp won a gold medal for Kat Knapp White, two silvers for Cayuga White and Superstition and five bronze medals for Curiosity, Vignoles, Riesling, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. These will be listed in the member report in the June issue of the Tasters Guild Journal and online at tastersguild.com.

“Kudos to Chris, our Vineyard Manager,” said Steve DiFranscesco, Knapp Winemaker. "The grapes in the various wines are impeccable.”

Tasters Guild International is a Wine and Food Appreciation Society based in Grand Rapids, Mich., with administrative offices in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. and Washington D.C. Its 22nd annual wine judging was held at the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Forty experienced judges from around the country completed more than 2,100 evaluations of wine from 36 states/provinces and 13 countries between April 29 and May 2.

Awards given to Knapp in the New World International Wine Competition included four silver medals for 2007 Chardonnay, 2007 Dry Riesling, 2007 Cayuga White and NV Concord. That competition has been held annually since 1990. Knapp was again chosen from a group of hundreds of entries.

“We are pleased to win more awards from such prestigious organizations,” said Gene Pierce, co-owner of Knapp Winery & Vineyard Restaurant. “Team Knapp is working hard to provide the best possible wines and customer service possible.”

MONTOUR FALLS, May 26 -- Thanks to a grant from the Fingerlakes Regional Perinatal Forum, Schuyler Hospital’s September Hill Women’s Center is offering a “Mother’s Lending Library.”

Received in the summer of 2007, the grant has allowed September Hill to purchase books and videos / DVDs for new parents on topics including: prenatal care, prenatal nutrition, breastfeeding, labor and delivery, postpartum, postpartum depression, infant care, fetal growth and development, infant growth and development, teen pregnancy and infertility.

Materials may be borrowed for a period of two weeks and up to five books/videos may be borrowed at one time. This library is open for use during September Hill’s regular business hours.

For more information, contact Schuyler Hospital’s September Hill Women’s Center at (607) 535-4645 or visit www.schuylerhospital.org

MONTOUR FALLS, May 26 -- To add to a variety of services, Schuyler Hospital is now offering massage therapy two days each week.

Chandra Russell, LMT, CIMT, is offering 60- and 90-minute massages in the hospital’s private Rehabilitation Services rooms on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Available modalities include Swedish, deep tissue, connective tissue, and sports massages; as well as energy work. Reflexology and aromatherapy are also available.

For further information, or to make an appointment, call (607) 535-8616 or go to www.schuylerhospital.org

WATKINS GLEN, May 24 -- The new officers of the Watkins Glen Business & Professional Women’s (BPW) local organization were installed at the group's May 18 meeting at Carol Bower’s Catering.

Installing Officer was Mary Ellen Morgan, BPW/NYS First Vice-President. New officers installed for 2009-10 are:

Secretary: Eileen Wesneski
Treasurer: Judith Coyle
Vice President: Onalee Stamp
President-Elect: Karen Cilley
President: Patricia Butler

BPW/USA provides members with professional development, networking, grassroots activism and career advancement resources. Its mission is to achieve equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education and information.

Watkins Glen BPW meets on the 3rd Monday of each month. For more information about membership, contact Gloria Hutchings at 594-2489.

Top: New officers, from left, are Eileen Wesneski (Secretary), Judith Coyle (Treasurer), Onalee Stamp (Vice President), Karen Cilley (President-elect), and Patricia Butler (President). At right is Mary Ellen Morgan, BPW/NYS First Vice-President.

Bottom: Club members recognized for their years of service were, from left: Janice Brew (41 years); Judith Coyle (20 years), Mildred Denson (53 years), Margaret Jensen (35 years), JoAnne Krolak (33 years), Sally Rigden (10 years), and Rosanna Smith (63 years). Not pictured were: Mary Ellen Morgan (34 years), Helen Swank (42 years), Gloria Hutchings (21 years), Martha Evans (32 years), Marjorie Stermer (38 years), and Margery Thyer (41 years).

This view of the Seneca Lake breakwater was taken from the pier adjoining the site of Wednesday's Chamber of Commerce mixer.

WATKINS GLEN, May 21 -- A monthly Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce mixer had an unbeatable mix Wednesday: beautiful weather, a lakefront setting and the chance to tour a berthed Seneca Lake charter sailboat.

The mixer -- a Chamber fixture at which business and government leaders can network -- was held at the Village Marina restaurant, and was co-hosted by the restaurant and Seneca Sailing Adventures. That's the charter service run by Terry Stewart and his first mate, Lisa Oldroyd, aboard a 38-foot cutter sailboat

The couple started their charter service with a smaller boat in 2005, and obtained the Lee Sea Anne I in 2007. Last year, they booked nearly 130 charters.

Stewart and Oldroyd were on hand at Wednesday's mixer, and then planning at its conclusion to open their boat for visits by the party participants.

The event also marked distribution of the new Chamber 2009 Travel Guide, which features a photo of the Stewart craft on the cover.

For more details on the charter service, visit its website -- www.senecasailingadventures.com -- or call 607-742-5100.

Top: A view of the Lee Sea Anne I as it sat at rest Wednesday at the marina.

Bottom: Katie Strawser of the Chamber of Commerce was helping oversee the mixer.

Left: Lisa Oldroyd and Terry Stewart aboard their charter sailboat. Right: Businessman Jim Guild and Watkins Glen Mayor Judy Phillips at the Chamber mixer.

A reflective view of Schuyler County Legislature Chairman Thomas Gifford at the mixer.

WATKINS GLEN, May 15 -- Three local women will travel to Manhattan on May 21 representing the Finger Lakes Region’s tourism, culinary and wine excellence.

The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce’s Tourism and Marketing Director, Miranda Polmanteer; Red Newt Cellars and Bistro’s Deb Whiting; and Finger Lakes Wine Country’s Morgen McLaughlin will present at Taste of New York, a media luncheon hosted by I Love NY- Empire State Development’s Tourism Division.

After receiving notice that the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce was selected by New York State officials to present on behalf of the Finger Lakes region, the Chamber was then asked to select an executive chef and wine connoisseur to attend the event, presenting with three other regions.

More than 50 national media contacts will be on hand to converse, learn and sample the many tastes of New York State. Along with the Finger Lakes, the Adirondacks, Hudson Valley and Long Island regions will be represented.

Whiting, executive chef and co-owner of Red Newt Cellars and Bistro in Hector, was chosen to attend as the region’s selected chef. She will prepare a dessert as part of a four-course meal for the media. Her menu item will include Napoleon with Lemon Curd Mousse, caramelized Rhubarb Mascarpone with caramelized Rhubarb and a Rhubarb Syrup.

McLaughlin, president of the Finger Lakes Wine Country Tourism Marketing Association, will represent the region’s internationally-recognized wine program, pairing local wines with the menu, and informing the media of the region’s more than 100 wineries.

“I was honored that the State chose Schuyler County to represent such an important part of New York State,” said Polmanteer. “This is an ideal occasion, meeting with critical media outlets, to solidify our tourism and marketing message while emphasizing the quality of our wine and culinary industry.”

MONTOUR FALLS, May 14 -- It’s a twist on summer camp. This one is for kids interested in health care.

M.A.S.H. Camp, or Medical Academy of Science and Health, is for junior high students who spend two days in the real world of hospital health care. This summer, Schuyler Hospital will host M.A.S.H. Camp on July 21-22.

The hospital is co-sponsoring the camp with the Central New York Area Health Education Center (CNYAHEC) and Excellus BlueCross BlueShield.

“This is our 8th year offering M.A.S.H. Camp at Schuyler Hospital," said Michelle LaDue Benjamin, Director of Community Relations for the hospital.. "We see this as a unique opportunity for our local young people to spend time working with dedicated health professionals who are excited to share their knowledge and experience with the kids.”

M.A.S.H. Camp at Schuyler Hospital is open to students entering 8th or 9th grade this September. Enrollment is limited to 12 students. Application packets are available by calling 607-535-8879 or at www.schuylerhospital.org

Students must write an essay stating why they want to attend M.A.S.H. Camp. The essay must be included with the application form and submitted by June 19. A registration fee of $15 will be required following acceptance.

Students attending camp must have up-to-date immunizations and a tuberculin skin test (PPD), including documentation from a physician, before they can attend camp.

Leslie Kannus, Executive Director for CNYAHEC, noted that M.A.S.H. Camp helps young people consider career opportunities they might not otherwise be aware of. “This year we will be co-sponsoring 15 M.A.S.H. camps across our 14-county Central New York region," she said.

CNYAHEC also co-sponsors with Excellus two week-long resident camps for high school students. HealthQuest will be hosted at Ithaca College from July 6-10 and MedQuest at SUNY Upstate Medical University. Questions about camps can be directed to Amber Webb, CNYAHEC program manager, at 607-756-1090 or awebb@cnyahec.org

WATKINS GLEN, May 10 – The Watkins Glen Business and Professional Women's Club will install officers for the 2009-2010 year at its May 18 meeting.

Installing officer will be BPW/NYS 1st Vice President Mary Ellen Morgan. The meeting will take place at Carol Bower’s Catering on Cass Road, Montour Falls. For more information, or to make a reservation, contact reservation chair Jan Brew at 535-6681 or at jbjoebrew@yahoo.com

Also to be recognized at the meeting are 12 members with over 411 years of membership with BPW. They are Nancy Allen (5), Janice Brew (41), Judith Coyle (30), Mildred Denson (53), Margaret Jensen (35), JoAnne Krolak (33), Ellen Laponsky (20), Sally Rigden (10), Rosanna Smith (63), Marjorie Stermer (38), Helen Swank (42), and Margery Thyer (41)

The Watkins BPW dates back to February 26, 1940, when close to 100 women from local businesses and professions sat down for dinner at the Glen Springs, a facility now long gone, in the Village of Watkins Glen. A charter had been drawn and presented for the inaugural meeting.. By September 1940, the organization had grown to 137 members.

From the beginning, the local organization members sought to raise funds for scholarships, and there are now three $500 annual scholarships available to students at the three Schuyler County high schools. Also, for the second year, a new $500 woman’s scholarship will be awarded during National Business Women’s Week in October 2009.

WATKINS GLEN, May 7 -- Seneca Harbor Station has appointed Larry Wills as its new Executive Chef.

According to a restaurant spokesman, Wills brings more than 25 years of culinary skill "and a passion for the art of cooking" to the waterfront restaurant and Captain Bill’s cruises.

Wills graduated with honors from the Culinary Institute of America in 1992. Since then he has worked in a range of restaurants, from small, white tablecloth ones to large multi-unit establishments.

Previously, Wills was the Corporate Chef for Phillips Seafood Restaurants. He has also held the Executive Chef position for the Ravens Stadium, home of the Baltimore Ravens, catering parties of up to 15,000 people. He was selected to join the food service team at three NFL Super Bowl games.

From there, Wills became the Executive Chef at Steamboat Restaurant, a 150-seat fine dining restaurant on the water in Galesville, Maryland. At Steamboat, Wills featured upscale fresh seafood dishes using high-quality ingredients and making everything from scratch.

“I am looking forward to bringing fresh ideas and exciting new specials to Seneca Harbor Station while raising the bar on the entire guest experience,” he said.

Photo in text: Seneca Harbor Station Executive Chef Larry Wills (Photo provided)

DUNDEE, May 3 -- Lake Country Players members Andy Parker, Sarah Caulk, Bill Cornelius and Tim Benjamin entertained guests at Glenora's Veraisons restaurant on Thursday, April 30, to raise money for the LCP, a non-profit community theater organization.

The event was part of a regular weekly series of Guest Chefs at the restaurant. Diners had the opportunity to create a dish of their choosing by selecting from a wide variety of meats, vegetables and pastas with either a red, Alfredo, or pesto base sauce.

The atmosphere, say observers, was consistently busy and upbeat -- with laughter and cheering frequent as the LCP members interacted with diners. By the end of the evening, noted Benjamin, "there had been a wonderful turnout and a great showing of support for community theater and the arts."

Photo in text: From left: Andy Parker, Sarah Caulk, Bill Cornelius and Tim Benjamin. (Photo by Ken Corey)

WATKINS GLEN, April 30 -- The Business and Education Committee of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce will host the next small business roundtable, Eggs at Eight, at 8 a.m. Tuesday, May 12 at Tobe’s Breakfast House and Bakery, Fourth and Decatur Streets.

The topic of this month’s roundtable is “Marketing Your Business” and will be facilitated by Scott Bloor of the Small Business Development Center at Corning Community College.

Are you interested in learning simple, low-cost, target-driven marketing ideas that may work for your business? The roundtable will address a number of them.

The cost is $10 per person and includes a full breakfast of one’s choice. Seating is limited, and reservations are appreciated, but not required.

For more information or to reserve, contact the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce at 607-535-4300 or by email at rebekah@watkinsglenchamber.com.

ROMULUS, April 22 -- The 17th Annual Wine & Herb Festival will be held on the Cayuga Wine Trail this weekend, April 25-26, and on May 2-3. Participants will celebrate the beginning of Spring and receive an herb or veggie plant from each winery.

This year's plants are Beefsteak Tomato, Big Max Pumpkin, Bouquet Dill, Cilantro, Dark Green Zucchini, Forest Green Parsley, Jalapeno Peppers, Oregano, Red Norlan Potatoes (Seed Potatoes), Purple Peppers, Rosemary, Sage, Summer Thyme, Sweet Italian Basil, Sweet Marjoram, and Walla Walla Onions.

Participants can sample herb-prepared delicacies paired with wines. They must visit all 16 wineries to be eligible to win one of the grand prizes from these local businesses: Courtyard by Marriott in Ithaca, Finger Lakes Winery Tours, MacKenzie-Childs, Ramada Inn in Ithaca, Rogue’s Harbor, Silver Strand Bed & Breakfast and Through the Grapevine Bed & Breakfast.

Advance tickets: Single ticket, $35.00, Couple ticket, $50.00 plus handling fee and sales tax. Designated Driver tickets: Single ticket $30.00, Couple Ticket $45.00 plus handling fee and sales tax. At the door: Single ticket, $40.00, Couple ticket, $55.00 plus sales tax. Tickets can also be purchased at "That's the Ticket Program" at Wegman's. For more information on the Wine & Herb Festival or any of the Cayuga Wine Trail events, visit www.cayugawinetrail.com.

Knapp Winery and Vineyard Restaurant is celebrating its 27th anniversary this year. It features more than 25 wines, five cordials and brandies. Tourists can also enjoy lunch at the seasonal Vineyard Restaurant and stay at the lake house. For more information about Knapp Winery & Vineyard Restaurant, and about its special events, weddings, promotions and specials, call 800-869-9271, visit www.knappwine.com or e-mail crystal@knappwine.com.

MONTOUR FALLS, April 17 -- The Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary has been hard at work recently, updating and renovating the hospital’s Gift Shop.

Located on the Lower Level of Schuyler Hospital, the Gift Shop is staffed by Auxiliary volunteers who recently renovated the area to be more customer-friendly. In addition, the Auxiliary brought a number of new items to the shop, and is continually changing the inventory.

“We want there to always be something new when you visit the hospital Gift Shop,” said Auxiliary President Joanne McLaine. “We are working to combine some of the expected items with some unexpected surprises.”

Proceeds from the Gift Shop help fund the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary Health Care Scholarships and other projects at the hospital.

For more information about the Auxiliary, or to volunteer, contact Nancy Pratt, volunteer coordinator, at (607) 535-5129 or visit www.schuylerhospital.org.

MONTOUR FALLS, April 17 -- The deadline is drawing near for $1,000 healthcare scholarships being offered by the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary.

Three $1,000 scholarships are available to students who plan to enter the healthcare field. Scholarships are available to graduating high school students who are residents of Schuyler County, or hospital employees wishing to further their education in the healthcare field.

Applications may be picked up at high school guidance offices, the hospital’s Human Resources office or the hospital website, www.schuylerhospital.org.

For more information, contact Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary members Nancy Herzig at (607) 535-1841 or Joan Argetsinger at (607) 535-6622.

ROMULUS, April 15 -- Knapp Winery recently won three medals in the Grand Harvest Awards. A silver medal was given to Knapp for the 2007 Chardonnay and bronze medals were given for the 2007 Riesling and 2007 Cayuga White.

The Grand Harvest Competition was presented by Vineyard & Winery Management Magazine and sponsored by Sonoma Mountain Village. Vineyard & Winery Management Magazine has been a leading independent trade publication for more than 30 years. Its mission is to help wineries succeed in today's competitive wine market. It produces a variety of products, conferences and trade shows, and three prestigious international wine competitions -- all designed to enhance professional development.

With a field of more than 1,600 entries from North America, Europe, South America, and the Pacific Rim, judges awarded a total of 142 Gold, 493 Silver, and 558 Bronze medals in a very competitive event where the judges must agree on such awards. Each panel consisted of three judges from professional fields within the wine producing, marketing and education fields.

Knapp Winery and Vineyard Restaurant will celebrate its 27th anniversary this year. The winery, a stop on the Cayuga Wine Trail, also offers lunch at the seasonal Vineyard Restaurant.

Upcoming events at Knapp include Wine & Herb Weekends April 25-26 and May 2-3, and a celebration of Riesling month the entire month of May with specials. For more information, call 800-869-9271, visit www.knappwine.com or e-mail crystal@knappwine.com

WATKINS GLEN, April 14 -- The Watkins Glen Business and Professional Women’s Club is offering a $500 scholarship, to be used by a woman of at least 25 years of age for further education or to seek a professional certificate or license.

The scholarship is part of the club's "Women Helping Women" initiative. Eligibility rules call for applicants to be at least 25 by Sept. 1, 2009.

Club officials said preference will be given to applicants who are residents of Schuyler County and/or are employed by a business or agency in Schuyler County and meet certain other criteria. Completed applications must be postmarked by Sept. 4.

Additional information and applications may be obtained from Karen Cilley at (607) 594-2148 or by email to wgbpw09@gmail.com.

WATKINS GLEN, April 14 -- Debora Bissonnette, owner of September Place, will be the guest speaker at the April 20th meeting of the Watkins Glen Business & Professional Women.

Bissonnette will discuss Women’s Health Services offered at the renovated “Whitney” place on Main Street in Burdett – complete with Well-Women Care, Midwifery, Yoga Studio, Massage Therapy and a soon-to-open Nutritional Education Cooking Suite.

The meeting will be held at Bower’s Catering on Cass Road, Montour Falls at 6:30 p.m. Reservations can be made by calling Annette Martin at 607-215-3247, or by e-mailing akagirlfriday@aol.com.

MONTOUR FALLS, April 8 -- This May, Schuyler Hospital will present the quality initiative "Improving the Process for Reporting Critical Test and Procedure Results" at the New York State Association of Healthcare Quality’s Upstate Educational Conference.

Earlier this year, the initiative to improve quality and patient safety was nominated for the Healthcare Association of New York State’s (HANYS) Pinnacle Award for Quality and Patient Safety, and published in HANYS’ 2008 Profiles in Quality and Patient Safety.

Under the leadership of Deborah Bailey, Director of Quality Management for Schuyler Hospital, the initiative resulted in compliance in all areas of the hospital growing to over 97 percent.

In June, Bailey will continue her travels to Idaho, as part of the NYS Critical Access Hospital Network’s presentation at the International Rural Nurses Association Annual meeting.

"Deb has really taken the hospital’s quality program to a new level," said Schuyler Hospital President/CEO Rick Stelzer. "We are pleased to share what our hospital has been able to accomplish with other facilities, and look forward to continuing to improve our quality for all of our patients and residents."

For more information, contact Deborah Bailey at (607) 535-7121 or by e-mail at baileyd@schuylerhospital.org

ROMULUS, April 7 -- Knapp Winery recently won six medals in the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition.

Silver Medals were given to Knapp for Cayuga, Niagara and Concord. Bronze Medals were given for Chardonnay, Riesling and Cayuga.

The Finger Lakes International Wine Competition exists to promote the entire wine industry. By entering the competition, wines receive exposure important for strong sales and profitability.

The competition also benefits Camp Good Days and Special Times, Inc., a non-profit organization that provides a camping experience and more for children and adults facing the toughest challenges of life. Children touched by cancer, HIV/AIDS, and violence gather at the recreational facility on Keuka Lake, re-kindling friendships and enjoying a week where they can simply be kids.

Knapp Winery and Vineyard Restaurant will celebrate its 27th anniversary this year. The winery, a popular stop on the Cayuga Wine Trail, invites visitors to sample more than 25 wines, five cordials and brandies. For more information about Knapp Winery & Vineyard Restaurant, special events, weddings, promotions and specials, call 800-869-9271, visit online at www.knappwine.com or e-mail crystal@knappwine.com.

WATKINS GLEN, April 4 -- Cargill has announced it is making a $10,500 donation to fight hunger in the Southern Tier area.

Cargill Salt in Watkins Glen and Cargill Beef in Wyalusing, Pa., are providing funds and cases of beef patties in that amount to the Food Bank of the Southern Tier. Cargill Salt employees also volunteer at local food pantry locations.

Cargill Corporate, as part of its emergency hunger relief effort, is giving a matching grant for the same value. The grant will be used for the “back pack” program in Schuyler County. The program provides food to school-aged children on weekends.

“We recognize that our continued success depends on the growth and health of our communities and partners,” said Don Chutas, a Cargill Salt spokesman. “Given that Cargill seeks to be the global leader in nourishing people, we are making this donation to help address immediate shortfalls of food for families in need.”

The Watkins Glen effort is an outgrowth of a $5 million donation Cargill announced in December. Hunger relief agencies are facing a growing demand for their services at a time when donations are shrinking. As a result, Cargill committed funds at global, national and local levels to provide immediate hunger relief to area nonprofits.

ROMULUS, April 3 -- Knapp Winery and Vineyard Restaurant has announced a special group of three White Tail Deer Trilogy wine labels in an effort to support conservation of the unique wildlife and open lands of the former Seneca Army Depot.

Knapp Winery is partnering with Seneca White Deer, Inc. (SWD) on this special promotion and has created a similar style to three of its most popular wines. Gene Pierce, co-owner of Knapp, noted that “The White Deer Trilogy concept features a white fawn photo on the Kat Nap label, a white buck on the Pasta Red label and a white doe adorns the Cayuga White label.”

According to Pierce, the white deer labeled wines should invite Knapp customers to purchase them as collectible items. All of the white deer photos are courtesy of Wild66.com.

Dennis Money, Chairman of SWD, a not-for-profit group, said the organization has been on a 10-year-long mission to preserve the white deer and the natural resources of the former Depot. “We appreciate the support of Knapp Winery in its efforts to raise awareness of the Depot’s irreplaceable natural resources, military history and open space,” he said. “The White Deer Trilogy is a remarkable tribute of respect to one of the area’s most treasured legacies." For additional information about SWD and the new Knapp label, you can visit SWD’s website at www.senecawhitedeer.org

“We encourage visitors to the area for the Seneca Army Depot White Deer Tours to visit Knapp,” said Crystal M. Ricks, Knapp's Director of Operations and Public Relations.. “The weekend tours are set for April 17-19, April 24-26 and May 1-3. A portion of the proceeds from the newly labeled wines will be donated to SWD in support of its conservation mission.”

Individual White Deer Trilogy bottles sell for $10, and the set for $28. They are on sale now.

Knapp Winery and Vineyard Restaurant will celebrate its 27th anniversary this year. The winery, a stop on the Cayuga Wine Trail, invites visitors to sample more than 25 wines, five cordials and brandies. Tourists can also enjoy lunch at the seasonal Vineyard Restaurant, stay at the lake house and host special events, weddings, rehearsals and more.

For further information about the Knapp Winery & Vineyard Restaurant, call 800-869-9271, visit www.knappwine.com or e-mail crystal@knappwine.com.

DUNDEE, March 28 -- – Women’s health services at Schuyler Hospital.will be the designated fund-raising cause when hospital personnel serve as guest chefs on Thursday, April 16 at the Veraisons Restaurant at Glenora Wine Cellars.

Guest chefs Rick Stelzer, President/CEO of Schuyler Hospital, and Dr. Bill Saks will serve up pasta to benefit the 2009 Family of Friends Campaign. Other hospital "celebrities" are also expected.

The 2009 campaign aims to raise $150,000 to expand and improve women’s health services at the hospital’s September Hill Women’s Center in Montour Falls.

Pasta night is $16.95 per person, and dinners will be served from 5-9 p.m. Reservations are encouraged by contacting Veraisons at 1-800-243-5513.

WATKINS GLEN, April 2 -- The Arc of Schuyler will be one of the sponsoring organizations of a Film Festival to be held in early May in Geneva, NY.

The Arc of Schuyler will be joined by 10 other Arc Chapters in the Finger Lakes area as sponsors of the Festival.

The Sprout Film Festival hopes to reinforce accurate portrayals of people with developmental disabilities and expose the general public to important issues that they face. “This will be an enjoyable and enlightening experience that will help break down stereotypes, promoting greater acceptance of differences and awareness of similarities,” said Jim Wilson, executive director of The Arc.

Sprout is a New York City-based nonprofit organization providing innovative programs to people with developmental disabilities. The Sprout Film Festival was founded in 2003 and has toured the country informing people about issues and sharing the talent of people with developmental disabilities. Information on the Sprout Touring Film Festival can be found at www.gosprout.org/touring/ or at The Arc of Schuyler’s website at www.arcofschuyler.org.

The Festival is free, open to the public. Wilson said it will allow people to experience screenings of memorable, thought-provoking and enjoyable films related to people with developmental disabilities. People are invited to view the films at the historic Smith Opera House in Geneva and participate in questions and answers, reviews and discussions.

Screenings will be on May 7th from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. and on May 8th from 10 a.m.-noon. The length of the films vary, but most are under 30 minutes. You can attend one or more of the screenings.

The Sprout Film Festival is sponsored by the Collaborative of the Finger Lakes -- 11 Chapters of NYSARC, Inc., supporting people with disabilities and their families. The Collaborative includes Chapters of NYSARC, Inc. from Chemung, Genesee, Livingston-Wyoming, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Schuyler, Seneca-Cayuga, Steuben, Wayne and Yates counties. These organizations support over 9,000 people with developmental disabilities in the region.

For more information on the Festival, call Michelle Jungermann, Ontario ARC Community Inclusion Manager, at (585) 394-7500. Locally you can contact Misty Jones at The Arc of Schuyler at (607) 535-6934.

ROMULUS, March 26 -- Knapp Winery and Vineyard Restaurant has hired Crystal M. Ricks as its Director of Operations & Public Relations. Her duties will include promoting the winery, the restaurant, retail sales, special events and Lake Cottage, and all other facets of public relations and marketing.

Ricks was recently fired by the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce, where she had served for five months as president and CEO. Her dismissal came after a monthly review of the Chamber's finances revealed what were described by Chamber officials as "irregularities." The matter was turned over to the District Attorney's office for investigation.

Ricks, who has also served as President/Owner of Rejoice PR & Communications and as Sylacauga Chamber of Commerce Executive Director in Alabama, brings to the Knapp job what winery co-owner Gene Pierce called "extensive knowledge in public relations, marketing and promotions."

"She will certainly be an asset to Knapp," he said. "I believe this is a great hire. We look forward to a long, mutually-beneficial relationship as we move the winery and restaurant forward."

Knapp Winery and Vineyard Restaurant will celebrate its 27th anniversary this year. For more information, call 800-869-9271, visit www.knappwine.com or email crystal@knappwine.com.

WATKINS GLEN, March 16 -- Noted agritourism marketing expert Jane Eckert will be the moderator for an Agritourism Conference and Workshop at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel on April 7.

Eckert is an award-winning marketing professional with more than 25 years of experience. Her presentations are designed to help farm businesses learn how to turn their operations into retail ventures that can attract visitors and benefit from direct sales to these customers.

Agritourism is one of the fastest growing segments of the travel industry, and rural communities all over the country are discovering ways to tap into the trend.

The conference is a collaboration among the Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development, the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce and Cornell Cooperative Extension. Funding was also provided by Corning Inc., Cargill, Chemung Canal Trust Company, Finger Lakes Wine Country and the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel.

Chamber officials are urging local agritourism-related businesses to host informative booths at the event, to be visited during lunch and breaks.

To reserve a spot at the conference, contact the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce at 607-535-4300. The workshop will run from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The workshop is free. Lunch will be available for $15.

ODESSA, March 12 -- The March 2009 issue of Mark Lipinski's Quilter's Home Magazine featured a Glass Spool Necklace in it's BLING! section that was created by Bonnie Scott of Joyful Adornments, Odessa.

Bonnie is a lampwork glass-bead artist who developed and designed the glass spool beads used to create the featured necklace commissioned by Janet-Lee Santeusanio, Professional Quilter and Founder of Machine Quilter's Expo in New Hampshire.

Bonnie's work may be found at www.joyfuladornments.com; at quilt, bead and fiber stores in New York and Virginia; in New York galleries; at regional quilt shows in Pennsylvania and New Hampshire, and at the prestigious 100 American Craftsmen Art Show in Lockport, NY.

Designer Glass Buttons are also a featured product created by Bonnie. She is currently developing a new line of glass buttons to coordinate with hand-dyed yarns and fiber-roving tops created by Susan Sarabasha of www.spinningbunny.com in West Danby, NY, to be released this coming April. A limited preview of buttons is currently available on her website under the "What's New" section.

Newsletter information and local events are listed at www.joyfuladornments.com

Joyful Adornments was started in 2004 and continues to develop new products every year. The Joyful Adornments Studio in Odessa is available by appointment only. For tours and demonstrations to small groups, you may design a bead for Bonnie to create while you watch, you may make-a-bead yourself with Bonnie's instruction, or you may sign up for private lampwork lessons.

Contact Bonnie Scott at her studio at 607-594-3016, email bonnie@joyfuladornments.com or visit www.joyfuladornments.com

WATKINS GLEN, March 6 -- The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce is continuing its search for a suitable venue for a new visitor center.

The search, part of the Chamber's Vision 2020 strategic plan, was undertaken with an eye toward establishing what the organization calls "a much-needed, practical, yet welcoming, educational, and exciting center."

The Chamber, in a press release, said it "plans to create a state-of-the-art center as a critical component to the number one growing industry in Schuyler County and the Finger Lakes Region -- tourism.

"The new visitor center will play a key role in the continued revitalization of the Village of Watkins Glen’s Franklin Street and the designated Empire Zone," the release said. "The visitor center will house interactive kiosks, historical and educational exhibits, interactive displays, 24-hour visitor services, potential tenants, commercial and retail opportunities and more."

The Chamber, the release noted, "has ended negotiations with one landowner this week, but continues to seek viable venues for the visitor center."

"We are moving the Chamber forward as a vital asset to our businesses and community," said Tom Phillips, Superintendent of Watkins Glen Central Schools and Chairperson of the Chamber. “We as members of the Board are united behind this effort to secure funding for the development of the new center. We can and must support the move to the future while ensuring our current viability."

“First impressions are extremely important,” said Crystal Ricks, Chamber President/CEO.. “Many times the visitor’s first opportunity to understand more about what Schuyler County has to offer is from the visitor center. The inadequate facilities now do not make a good impression of what we represent, which is a world-class destination.”

The current center is a small building on the corner of North Franklin and First Streets in Watkins Glen.

The Chamber is seeking partners and funding for the new visitor center. If you would like to view the strategic plan, become a partner, donate funding to the project or want more information on the Chamber, contact Ricks at 607-535-4300 or e-mail her at crystal@watkinsglenchamber.com

WATKINS GLEN, March 6 -- The Business and Education Committee of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting its next small business roundtable discussions, entitled Eggs at Eight, on Tuesday, March 10th at 8:00 a.m.

This month’s Eggs at Eight will be held at Classic Chef’s on Route 14 between Watkins Glen and Montour Falls.

The topic of the discussion will be “Maximizing Your Website & Internet Presence Without Risking Your Customers’ Private Information.” The session will be facilitated by Gregg Lantz of GPL Integrated IT, LLC, a Microsoft Certified Professional with Microsoft Dynamics; formerly Microsoft Business Solutions.

At this roundtable the committee will discuss connecting your website to your businesses in real time. Participants will also learn how to utilize their website to more effectively capture additional revenue. Other topics will include the new Payment Card Industry regulations and how to protect your business and the customers you service.

The cost to attend this session is $10 per person, which includes a full breakfast of one’s choice. Seating is limited and reservations are appreciated, but not required.

For more information or to reserve a space, contact the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce at 607-535-4300 or by e-mail at rebekah@watkinsglenchamber.com.

WATKINS GLEN, March 6 -- The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce has announced it will be taking part in a new digital marketing effort through the New York State Travel and Vacation Association (NYSTVA).

Watkins Glen and Schuyler County topics covered in the site will include outdoor adventure, racing, and wine and culinary delights through catchy taglines that consumers can click on.

WATKINS GLEN, Feb. 27 -- A recently formed company is offering a new program for area job seekers.

10 Steps to Get That Job is a free one-hour seminar developed by entrepreneur and teacher Richard Little. The program will kick off during the month of March with free seminars presented by Little's firm, GDP Services, at local libraries in Elmira, Horseheads, and Watkins Glen.

The seminars, Little announced in a press release, "are provided to give job seekers valuable insight into the employment process. In today’s economy and job market, it is vital for job seekers to know and understand what recruiters and personnel managers are looking for. 10 Steps to Get That Job intends to do just that with topics including skills awareness, career exploration, resume writing and interviewing, just to name a few."

-- Tuesday, March 10, at 7:00 p.m., Watkins Glen Public Library, 610 S. Decatur Street, Watkins Glen
-- Saturday, March 14, at 10:00 a.m., Horseheads Free Library, 405 S. Main Street, Horseheads
-- Tuesday, March 31, at 7:00 p.m., Steele Memorial Library, 101 E. Church Street, Elmira

Prior to founding GDP Services, Little’s private-sector experience included human resources management. He currently teaches career skills to vocational high school students. Additionally , he has experience in viticulture, sales and marketing, grant writing and governmental administration.

GDP, Little says, was created based on the principles of Growth, Development and Prosperity. The 10 Steps to Get That Job program, he adds, allows GDP to promote its principles through professional development.

"It is the intent of GDP," the press release said, "to provide job seekers with the tools and strategies for successful employment and successful living."

DUNDEE, Feb. 25 -- Glenora Wine Cellars has received four Double Gold medals and three Gold medals in the Best of Appellation Evaluation respectively for their Dry Riesling, Riesling, Merlot, Pinot Blanc, Vintner’s Select Dry Riesling, Cabernet Franc, and Method Champenoise Brut.

The Best of Appellation evaluation (BOA), a service of Appellation America from Napa, California, focuses more on the origin of the grapes and the character of the appellation. The wine is judged against other wines from that specific area.

“This is another example of how important the relationship with our grape growers is,” said Steve DiFrancesco, Winemaker at Glenora Wine Cellars. “Their critical thinking, strategic planning, and hard work in their vineyards are paramount in producing these award-winning wines.”

Glenora Wine Cellars has been in the wine industry for over 30 years, producing award-winning high quality wines. Glenora Wine Cellars was the first winery on Seneca Lake in the heart of New York’s Finger Lakes Wine Country. Today the property offers a 30-room inn (Inn at Glenora) and a gourmet restaurant (Veraisons) joining the winery on the beautifully groomed 40-acre estate.

MONTOUR FALLS, Feb. 20 -- Schuyler Hospital’s Cardiopulmonary Services Department has once again received the Quality Respiratory Care Recognition (QRCR) award from the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC). This is a national program aimed at helping patients and families make informed decisions about the quality of the respiratory care services in hospitals.

About 700 hospitals, or approximately 15% of hospitals in the United States, have received this award. Schuyler Hospital has received the award every year since it was first awarded in 2003.

Schuyler Hospital’s Cardio-Pulmonary Department offers a variety of outpatient tests to evaluate heart and lung performance, including electrocardiography (EKG), echocardiography, cardiac stress, holter monitoring, sleep lab, pulmonary function, and arterial blood gas (ABG).

The QRCR program grew out of growing concerns among health care leaders and the general public regarding the safety and quality of health care services provided to patients. Hospitals that meet the QRCR requirements provide a level of respiratory care consistent with national standards and guidelines, and are commended for their commitment to quality care.

Respiratory Care Practitioners are specially trained health care professionals who work under physician's orders to provide a wide range of breathing treatments and other services to people with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis, lung cancer, AIDS, and other lung or lung-related conditions. They also care for premature infants, post op patients, and are key members of lifesaving response teams charged with handling medical emergencies.

The AARC is a membership organization representing more than 46,000 health professionals involved in respiratory care nationwide.

For more information, contact Schuyler Hospital at (607) 535-7121 or visit www.schuylerhospital.org

WATKINS GLEN, Jan. 30 -- – Dick and Gary Gaige and their wives Brenda and Meg, dairy farmers in the Cayuta Lake watershed, are the recipients of the 2008 Conservation Farmer of the Year award presented by the Schuyler County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) at its annual luncheon held at the Watkins Glen Elks Club on Wednesday, Jan.28. Tom Brace, a previous District Manager, received the Service Award.

The Conservation Farmer award is “meant to recognize farmers who have been committed to conservation for a number of years,” said Elaine Dalrymple, District Field Manager, who presented this year’s award.

Gaige Farms is a Century Farm (an honor bestowed by the New York State Agricultural Society), and has been actively farmed by the Gaige family for over 150 years.

“One reason this farm has been able to continue into the fifth generation is because of the way the owners, Dick and Gary, and their predecessors before them, take care of their natural resources,” said Dalrymple. “The Gaiges know how important it is to prevent erosion and protect water quality and they use such practices as strip-cropping, crop rotation, cover crops, nutrient management planning, diversions, and grassed waterways. The farm is managed with more than field crop and dairy production in mind. The two families and their children love wildlife and natural surroundings and they maintain woods and fields so that turkey, deer and grouse can thrive.”

The Gaiges -- who Dalrymple said enjoy teaching and demonstrating to youth and adults the importance of local agriculture as a profession -- host a number of tours of their farm for youth and community groups.

“The Schuyler County SWCD is extremely proud to present the second annual Conservation Farmer of the Year award to the Gaiges. They are an extremely hard working family who strive to protect the environment,” said Jerry Verrigni, District Manager

The Service Award, also presented at the luncheon, recognizes an individual who has put forth an outstanding effort for the betterment and growth of the SWCD over the years.

The honoree, Tom Brace, has been District Manager for the Schuyler District for over 20 years. He recently retired after 10 years as a Water Quality Specialist for the New York State Soil and Water Conservation Committee, where he assisted Soil and Water Districts in 13 counties in western New York. He is recognized locally and statewide for his technical skills in conservation practice design and implementation, and also for his administrative abilities.

In accepting the award, Brace said: “Schuyler County is my home and I have loved working with its farmers, residents and leaders over the years to protect our natural resources.”

Top: From left: Brenda, Dick, Gary and Meg Gaige, owners and operators of Gaige Farms, after receiving the 2008 Conservation Farmer of the Year Award.

Bottom: Anthony J. Specchio (left), Chairman of the Board of the Schuyler County SWCD, presents Tom Brace with the 2008 Service Award. (Photos provided)

WATKINS GLEN, Jan. 16 -- Schuyler County has received notice that it has been selected to receive a $22,500 grant through the New York State Housing Trust Fund Corporation and the Office of Community Renewal. The Community Planning Grant will fund a strategic analysis that addresses waterfront development along Seneca Lake.

In response to the Local Waterfront Revitalization Plan created for the Village of Watkins Glen by Cornell Cooperative Extension, an application for Community Block Grant funding was submitted by the Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development (SCOPED) on behalf of the county. The study funded by the grant will look to create an overall management plan for the waterfront and identify opportunities for future development. Areas to be investigated will include current and future land use, harbor utilization, traffic/pedestrian circulation and parking.

As tourism continues to grow in the Finger Lakes, the Seneca Lake waterfront will be increasingly attractive as a recreational destination. Said Brian Williams, Community Development Specialist for SCOPED and author of the grant application: ”We have seen numerous improvements and additions to the waterfront over the last few years. We’re getting to the point where this development could have a more coordinated focus to ensure continued growth. The strategy we intend to pursue will help us to create that focus.”

Once the grant funds are received, a request for proposals will be sent out to start the selection process for a consultant. The study will be commissioned before the end of 2009 and should be completed in 2010. Further details can be obtained by calling the SCOPED offices at (607) 535-4341.

New room boasts men's wear, lots of space

Jim Guild's Famous Brands store expansion on North Franklin Street in Watkins Glen has yielded its first new room -- a second floor, 5,400-square-foot area called The Lodge. It houses men's wear. The room opened before the installation of carpet, which was put in place Dec. 9th. Also on hand: a couple of massage chairs, and a hunting lodge-style fake fireplace that kicks out plenty of gas-generated heat.

WATKINS GLEN, Jan. 7 -- Watkins Glen International president Craig Rust announced today that Tim Coleman has been promoted to the position of vice president of operations at the legendary road course.

Coleman, a lifelong resident of Steuben County, had been the general manager of track operations since 2002 and has been with the track since the early 1980s.

WGI also announced that three members of its marketing staff -- Ryan Lake, Brett Powell and Ryan Tolley -- have been promoted.

“Tim Coleman has been a committed employee at WGI for over 20 years, and not only do we appreciate his years of service, we are extremely grateful to have someone with such dedication to and knowledge of Motorsports at The Glen," said Rust. “We are very proud to provide growth opportunities in our company for our talented professionals such as Coleman, Lake, Powell, and Tolley and look forward to helping them all reach their career goals at The Glen.”

Coleman started at WGI in December 1983 when the track was purchased by Corning, Inc. and International Speedway Corporation. A Corning, Inc. employee since 1977, he left his role as manager of the Corning Revere Outlet retail stores in Corning, Watkins Glen and Ithaca to become the retail sales manager at The Glen.

He steadily made his way up the leadership ladder. He held the position of retail sales manager for four years before taking on the role of ticket and retail sales manager from 1987 thru 1992. He then became director of advertising and sales from 1992 thru 1998, and was the general manager of event operations from 1998 through 2002.

Coleman was not only born and raised in the Finger Lakes Region, but also received his AAS degree in Accounting from Corning Community College in 1976. He later received his BS in Business Management from the University of Buffalo in 1982. He resides in Steuben County with his wife, Judy Smith-Coleman, a teacher at Corning Free Academy.

Lake, formerly the media relations coordinator, has been promoted to public relations manager. The Horseheads High School graduate and Ithaca College alum started at The Glen in June 2006 following his graduation from the Park School of Communications at IC. In his new role, he will manage several of the track’s PR efforts -- including press releases, media center staffing and driver media tours.

Powell, also a Horseheads High School graduate, has been promoted from account executive to special events and partnerships manager. In his new role he will be responsible for many special events at the track, including concerts, The Glen’s revamped hospitality experiences, and Opening Day. He will also take on a larger role with the track’s wine festival, scheduled for July 17-19. Powell joined WGI as a marketing coordinator in September 2004 after graduating with a Masters Degree from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. He was promoted to account executive for the sales department in 2005.

Tolley moves from his former position as account executive to his new role as the sales and business development manager for WGI. He was hired as an account executive in May 2006 after spending two years with BlueTie Software as a sales manager of its service provider division. Prior to his time with BlueTie, Tolley worked in the automotive field with Mach 2 Management as a senior program manager of events and promotions. In his new role, he will be responsible for generating new business-to-business partnerships for the race track.

DUNDEE, Dec. 30 -- Veraisons Restaurant, located at The Inn at Glenora Wine Cellars, has announced its 2009 Winter Dinner schedule -- which includes Mexican Night on Wednesdays, Pasta Night on Thursdays, and Fish & Brew Fridays.

Mexican night begins January 7th. Executive Chef Orlando Rodriquez will prepare made-to-order beef and chicken fajitas, and hard and soft tacos. On Thursday the Veraisons culinary team serves custom pasta dishes made with a wide variety of ingredients. Fish and Brew Friday offers guests beer-battered haddock with a local microbrew flight of beer.

You can visit www.glenora.com for prices and a coupon for these dinners. Dinner is served from 5-9 p.m. Reservations are recommended by calling (607).243-9500.

Distillery taking shape on east side of Seneca

The under-construction Finger Lakes Distillery along Route 414 in the Town of Burdett was scheduled to have its equipment installed Dec. 15th and is looking for a "soft" opening in late winter, distillery president and founder Brian McKenzie told the Watkins-Montour Rotary Club at its weekly luncheon Dec. 4th. McKenzie, along with distiller Thomas McKenzie (no relation), will be producing distilled spirits other than wine -- such as vodka, gin, whiskey, brandies and cordials -- that they see as complementary to the growing wine industry in this region. McKenzie, a Cornell graduate with banking experience, said he decided to start the distillery because of a longtime interest in distilling, an interest in undertaking something "on my own," and a desire "to be part of" the burgeoning business scene along the Seneca Lake shoreline.

Left: Map pinpointing the distillery, and its upcoming first product: Vintner's Vodka.

WATKINS GLEN, Dec. 7 -- The Watkins Glen Business and Professional Women/USA organization has honored Watkins Glen High School Library Media Specialist Margaret "Maggie” Edgley.with its annual “Woman of the Year” award.

Edgley was presented with a certificate and a BPW Woman of the Year pin recognizing her as the 2008 Award Winner for exceptional career achievement. Presenting the award to Edgley --who lives in Burdett with her husband, Kevin -- was current Watkins Glen BPW Status of Women Chair, Jan Brew, assisted by BPW/NYS 1st Vice President, Mary Ellen Morgan.

According to a BPW press release, Edgley "has provided outstanding guidance to youth, assisted many in career advancement and participates in community service. She was instrumental in the redesign and renovation of the library facilities at Watkins Glen High School. Students have been given access to upgraded technology and video production."

Beyond that, the release said, "Maggie developed Channel 5 Broadcast News from the high school studio. She promotes tremendous student involvement with the community, and local cable subscribers can view this program each morning.... Outside of her life at school, she helps with the local Jazz Festival, is a trustee for the Friends of the Watkins Glen Library ... and also won 1st place in the Finger Lakes Magazine for Black & White Photography."

The objective of the Watkins Glen BPW is to promote full participation and equity for women in
the workplace, to publicize the achievements of business and professional women on the local, state and national level, and to publicize the objectives and programs of BPW/USA as they relate to the millions of business and professional women in the country.

Meetings for the Watkins Glen BPW are open and held the third Monday of every month. Call
Gloria Hutchings, Membership Chair, at 594-2489 or JoAnne Krolak at 732-1171 for more information.

Photo in text: Maggie Edgley is flanked by Watkins Glen BPW Status of Women Chair Jan Brew (left) and BPW/NYS 1st Vice President Mary Ellen Morgan. (Photo provided)

BILLINGS, Montana, Dec. 1 -- Cam and Paul Friesen, owners of the Watkins Glen, New York KOA Campground for the past 17 years, were named KOA’s Franchisees of the Year during the annual Kampgrounds of America Jamboree Nov. 7-11 in Myrtle Beach, S.C.

“Paul and Cam Friesen are great role models for every KOA campground owner – or any campground owner, for that matter,” said Shane Ott, President and Chief Operating Officer of Kampgrounds of America Inc. “Paul has played a big role on just about every key advisory group within KOA, and has helped make the Kampgrounds of America system the industry leader that it is today.”

The Friesens received the award Nov. 10 during a special awards ceremony at KOA’s Myrtle Beach Jamboree. Nearly 600 KOA franchisees and members of their staffs attended the Jamboree. The Watkins Glen KOA includes a new indoor swimming pool, spa and fitness center, as well as full-service Kamping Lodges with full kitchens, bathrooms and showers included.

Also receiving special recognition was the Cardinal/Ottawa South, Ontario, Canada KOA owned by Daniel Parent and Karen McAndrew. That campground received the KOA Rising Star Award, given each year to a new KOA franchisee who has demonstrated great operational and customer service skills early in their KOA careers.

The day began with the awarding of KOA President’s Awards to 275 franchisees who received high guest service scores from their own campers based on the annual KOA Kamper Satisfaction Surveys (KSS), and 99 KOA Founder’s Awards to those franchisees who had received the very top scores from their campers via KSS.

DUNDEE, Dec. 1 -- Glenora Wine Cellars has expanded its gift basket line, offering special holiday labeled wine, personalized labels of wine, and New York State products for the 2008 holiday season.

Glenora created four holiday labeled wines, “Seyval Bells,” “Frosty the Snowmante,” “Grinchtraminer” and “Santa’s Bobsled Red.” In addition, it has a customized label program where bottles of wine can be personalized with a company’s logo and a holiday message.

The made-to-order gift baskets incorporate various New York State wine-related products, including locally produced soaps and bath salts made with Glenora’s wines.

“Our focus is on the individual customer,” said Bridget Olisky, Retail Manager, “offering them something that is truly unique.”

Glenora Wine Cellars has been in the wine industry for 30 years, producing award-winning high quality wines. It was the first winery on Seneca Lake, and today offers a 30-room inn (Inn at Glenora) and a gourmet restaurant (Veraisons) along with the winery on a 40-acre estate. For more information, call (800) 243-5513 or visit www.glenora.com.

WATKINS GLEN, Dec. 1-- The Arc of Schuyler has launched a new and improved website.

According to an Arc press release, the site "will use the latest technologies and communication tools to present information to individuals, families and members of the public who are interested in issues related to intellectual and other developmental disabilities. In addition, the site will keep people informed about news related to The Arc and its supports and services, as well as news from New York State and around the nation related to intellectual and other developmental disabilities."

There is also information, the release said "on a career at The Arc as well as the ability to submit resumes and job applications. The site includes a calendar of events and also lets people know the many different ways that they can support The Arc."

The Arc, a Chapter of NYSARC, Inc., celebrated 30 years of service and support to people with developmental disabilities this past year and provides support to over 300 people in Schuyler County on a regular basis. You can visit The Arc's newly designed website at www.arcofschuyler.org

MONTOUR FALLS, Nov. 12 – Most 10-year-olds sell lemonade at a summer lemonade stand for money to buy toys or snacks, music or clothes. But 10-year-old Mary Elyna Fish wanted the money she raised to go to needy children.

The young philanthropist even got some of her supplies donated by Freedom Village – where her parents, John and Abby Loan, work -- so that more funds could go to her cause. Over the course of her summer sale at Freedom Village, Mary Elyna raised a whopping $65.18, and recently donated all her hard-earned money to Schuyler Hospital.

Mary Elyna knew she wanted her donation to help children, and when she learned the orphanage she had in mind had closed, she decided her local hospital was a good place for her gift.

Mary Elyna recalled thinking, “Well, we have this hospital right in Montour Falls, they probably need the money for the sick children.”

Mary Elyna’s dad, John, called the Schuyler Health Foundation from a tree stand while he was hunting, and made arrangements to present the dollar bills and coins to the hospital’s fund-raising arm.

“She is an amazing young lady,” said Dr. Eunice Nayo, a pediatrician for the hospital, on receiving the money from Mary Elyna. “I am so impressed with her.”

Mary Elyna was quiet and reserved through the presentation, but obviously and deservedly beaming with pride, as were her parents.

Photo in text: From left: Abby Loan, John Loan, Mary Elyna Fish, Dr. Eunice Nayo and Rick Stelzer, Schuyler Hospital President/CEO.

WATKINS GLEN, Nov. 10 -- The Arc of Schuyler’s recreation department, headed by Glenn “Casey” Mallow, has been awarded a $1,000 Berklee College of Music Alumni Grant to finance the purchase of new instruments and equipment for its musical and theatrical group, The Twelfth Street Players.

The Twelfth Street Players is made up of people with and without developmental disabilities who perform together at a variety of agency and community functions.

The Arc's recreation program is focused on providing people with opportunities to participate in meaningful, enriching, and enjoyable activities that they choose and enjoy. Through the help of the grant, The Twelfth Street Players hope to expand their skills and repertoire in order to perform at a larger variety of venues, while learning, having fun, and promoting their message of inclusiveness.

The Berklee College of Music awards Alumni Grants annually to support the work of its alumni in their communities by providing money for projects that will broaden the respect for contemporary music and thus the mission of the Berklee College of Music.

Casey Mallow has been employed as a recreation supervisor at The Arc of Schuyler since September 2007. He graduated from the Berklee College of Music in 1994 and has worked in a variety of music-related fields since that time.

Information about The Twelfth Street Players, including their availability, can be attained by contacting Mallow at The Arc at (607) 535-6934.

WATKINS GLEN, Nov. 7 -- The Arc of Schuyler recently recognized a number of employees for both their length of service and for the support that they have provided to the organization over the years.

Jeannette Frank, assistant executive director, was recognized for 29 years of service in various capacities over her time with the organization. Frank is currently responsible for many of the day-to-day operational aspects of The Arc and its services and supports. Pat Wilcox, group leader in The Arc's Day Habilitation program, was recognized for 23 years. Recognized for 22 years of service was Kelly Leipold, director of Quality Assurance and Corporate Compliance.

Carole Sullivan, group leader at The Arc's Day Habilitation program, was recognized for 18 years of service. Sharon Clawson, a direct support professional providing home services, and Cathy Corso, a direct support professional providing day habilitation, were both recognized for 11 years of service.

Recognized for three years of service were Tina Culligan, business office assistant; Sherry Mosher, a direct support professional providing Day Habilitation; and Audrey Stayer, a direct support professional providing residential services.

"Each of these individuals have been involved in assuring quality supports and services at The Arc and we recognize their important contribution to the success of our organization and to the individuals we support," said Jim Wilson, executive director of The Arc.

The Arc provides supports and services to 300 individuals with disabilities and their families and is celebrating 30 years of Believing in Dreams and Making a Difference for people with disabilities. For more information visit The Arc's website at www.arcofschuyler.org

WATKINS GLEN, Oct. 31 -- Rebekah LaMoreaux, a Burdett resident, is the recipient of the Watkins Glen Business and Professional Women’s Inaugural Women’s Career Enhancement Scholarship.

BPW initiated the scholarship this year to assist women age 25 and older who are furthering their education, which is one of the organization’s Women Helping Women objectives.

LaMoreaux is completing an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration at Corning Community College. Upon graduation, she plans to attend Empire State College to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting.

She has accepted the Schuyler County Chamber of Commerce’s new position of Director of Operations and Finance.

Photo in text: Left to right, Sue Gigliotti (BPW Education Committee Chairperson), Rebekah LaMoreaux and Karen Cilley (BPW Education Committee). (Photo provided)

Note: BPW membership and meeting information may be obtained from Gloria Hutchings at 594-2489 or gloriaj7@aol.com, or from JoAnne Krolak at 732-1171 or joanne3k@lightlink.com.

Guild on building plan: 'I want ... to do it right'

Watkins Glen businessman Jim Guild says he's "very excited" at the prospect of developing a new business -- Seneca Lake Outifitters -- in the old Schuyler Hardware Building at 214 N. Franklin St., but plans to finish expansion of his Famous Brands business first before turning full attention to the new project. Guild gave a tour of the former (and now vacant) hardware store to several people one recent day, showing the basement and all three floors, and pointing out the smooth operation of the old freight elevator that transported the visitors. On hand was Village Code Enforcement Officer Gordon Wright, who said "the structural integrity of the building is fantastic." The building dates back to 1897 (see inset), and has housed a radio store, a hardware, a dress factory and various offices. Guild hopes for a fall 2009 opening, saying of the renovation project: "I want to take my time to do it right." The business will house home-based and outdoor-related goods -- including kayaks, which Guild said he could envision hanging on a brick wall on the third floor.

WATKINS GLEN, Oct. 10 -- Rebekah LaMoreaux, former bookkeeper for the Schuyler County Chamber of Commerce, has been named the Chamber's new Director of Finance and Operations,.

LaMoreaux was previously employed in the Finance Department at Schuyler Hospital, was an independent contractor for several local businesses, and was Interim Director of Operations for the Gaffer District in Corning.

In her new position, she will assume all aspects of the financial reporting processes for the Chamber, and handle all Human Resources activities.

“I am excited to have Rebekah on board,” said Crystal M. Ricks, new President and CEO of the Chamber. “I am more than confident that she has the skills needed to excel in her new position, as the Schuyler Chamber continues to move forward."

LaMoreaux lives in Burdett with her two children, Ryanna and Ali, and her husband Mike. She was the recent recipient of a Business and Professional Women’s Club (BPW) scholarship, which she will utilize toward finishing her Associate's Degree in Business Administration from Corning Community College. Upon graduation, she plans to pursue a bachelor degree in accounting.

MONTOUR FALLS, Sept. 16 -- Schuyler Hospital in Montour Falls received good scores in the New York State Department of Health's recently released "Hospital Compare" data. The Hospital scored high in the areas of pneumonia, heart failure and heart attack.

In overall heart attack care, Schuyler Hospital scored 100 percent for giving recommended care to patients having heart attacks. It scored 96.72 percent for giving recommended treatment for patients having heart failure, and 97.25 percent for giving recommended treatments to patients with pneumonia. New York State averages are 96.23%, 93.90%, and 91.04% respectively.

"These scores reflect the commitment of Schuyler Hospital's physicians and patient care staff to deliver an exceptionally high level of quality care to the communities we serve," said Catherine North, Vice President of Patient Care Services at Schuyler Hospital.

Consumers can compare Schuyler Hospital’s data to any other hospital at http://hospitals.nyhealth.gov/index.php

For more information, contact Schuyler Hospital at (607) 535-7121 or visit www.schuylerhospital.org.

MONTOUR FALLS, Aug. 30 – Schuyler Hospital in Montour Falls may be a small, rural hospital, but the critical-access facility is faring well when compared to recently released national averages for wait times in its Emergency Department, and for death rates from common illnesses.

According to a press release from the hospital, its average Emergency Department visit times are less than one-half of the national average recently reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – 28 minutes versus the national average of 56 minutes.

In addition, the release said that based on death rates for 2006-07 recently posted by USA TODAY on its website, Schuyler Hospital is near or under the national averages for death rates from heart attacks (16.4% versus the national average of 16.1%) and pneumonia (11.3% versus the national average of 11.4%), and close to the national average for heart failure (12.7% versus the national average of 11.1%).

The on-line listing allows individuals to compare hospitals small and large across the nation on death rates from heart attack, heart failure and pneumonia.

“While we constantly strive for improvement, we are proud of these figures,” said Catherine North, Schuyler Hospital's Vice President of Patient Care Services. “These rates demonstrate the skills of our staff and our state-of-the-art equipment.”

Added North: “When minutes matter, making the decision to go to your local Emergency Department here at Schuyler Hospital can minimize the possibility of long-term damage, and increase your chances for survival.”

North pointed out that the 28-minute Emergency Department wait time is just an average, and that those requiring immediate care may be seen sooner than 28 minutes, while those not in serious condition may wait longer.

For more information, contact Schuyler Hospital at (607) 535-7121 or visit its website, www.schuylerhospital.org.

MONTOUR FALLS, Aug. 12 -- As the target date for wrapping up the 2008 Family of Friends Campaign approaches, Schuyler Hospital’s Health Foundation recently got a boost from the local business community – a $1,000 check from HSBC in Watkins Glen.

According to HSBC Vice President and Branch Manager Tony Fraboni, the donation is the continuation of a longstanding, community-focused relationship.

“It is HSBC’s mission to build strong, enduring relationships with a wide range of organizations, providing the resources and tools to sustain long-term results,” Fraboni said. “We recognize the significance of Schuyler Hospital in our community, and the importance of a successful 2008 campaign.”

Foundation Executive Director Jim Kuehl hopes that HSBC’s generosity will inspire other local businesses and individuals to give.

“We are so close to our goal,” Kuehl said, “Generous donations such as this one from HSBC are much-needed and much-appreciated.”

The Schuyler Health Foundation, incorporated in 1987, provides funds to -- or for the benefit of -- Schuyler Hospital and its related medical facilities.

For more information, contact the Schuyler Health Foundation at (607) 535-8879 or go to www.schuylerhospital.org

Photo in text: From left, Rick Stelzer, Schuyler Hospital President and CEO; Jerry Gapp and Maxine Neal, Schuyler Health Foundation; and Tony Fraboni, HSBC. (Photo provided)

MONTOUR FALLS, Aug. 1 -- Schuyler Hospital will soon begin participating in a national program to strengthen the quality of care and financial stability among America’s small rural hospitals.

The project allows hospitals to compare performance against other rural hospitals in a number of key areas, including finances, patient satisfaction, quality of care, and physician support.

“We’re excited that Schuyler Hospital is among the first handful of hospitals participating in a project that addresses the unique healthcare needs of rural America,” said Rick Stelzer, President and CEO of Schuyler Hospital. “This is a great opportunity for our hospital and our community.”

Schuyler Hospital is working with RPM, LLC., a Stroudwater Associates company, to utilize a “Balanced Scorecard” to measure many different types of information.

“The use of the Balanced Scorecard allows our organization to focus on financial and clinical performance, while at the same time supporting our staff and providing a patient-centered experience,” said Deborah Bailey, Director of Quality Management/Risk Management. “The biggest advantage for us is to measure our performance against similar hospitals across the U.S.”

For more information, contact Schuyler Hospital at (607) 535-7121 or go online to www.schuylerhospital.org

WATKINS GLEN, July 30 -- The Watkins Glen Business and Professional Women's Organization has announced an inaugural $500 Women's Career Enhancement Scholarship.

An applicant must be a woman who is 25 years of age or older by Sept. 1, 2008, a resident of Schuyler County, and in financial need. The application deadline is Sept. 5.

The scholarship is intended to assist women who wish to further their education or change careers.

According to a BPW spokeswoman, the scholarship helps to fulfill an objective of "women helping women." The organization, she said, believes that "providing financial assistance to a woman towards furthering her education or seeking a professional certificate or license is vital to that objective."

For more information or an application, call (607) 594-2148 or email branry2@aol.com

MONTOUR FALLS, July 28 – Schuyler Hospital has recently been re-accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR) for mammography.

According to a hospital spokesperson, the three-year re-accreditation recognizes the hospital’s mammography services for achieving high practice standards following a rigorous peer-review evaluation. Assessments included the qualifications of personnel and the adequacy of facility equipment.

In addition to mammography, Schuyler Hospital offers diagnostic imaging services including Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), bone density scans, CT scans, fluoroscopy studies, ultrasound, and X-ray.

The ACR, headquartered in Reston, Va., awards accreditation following evaluations conducted by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field.

Hotelier David Hart, left, and Watkins Glen Mayor Judy Phillips cut the ceremonial ribbon marking the opening of the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel.

WATKINS GLEN, July 16 -- After the scissors cut the red ribbon, the crowd on hand for the ceremonial opening of the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel streamed past the spot where the ribbon had been and into the hotel for a private party.

The hotel -- 18 months after another ceremony in roughly the same spot had signaled the start of the construction project -- was, with the snipping of that pair of scissors Wednesday afternoon, essentially open.

The practical opening was a little harder to peg. The hotel website said it would be on July 25th, but a hotel official conducting tours of the facility Wednesday said it would open this Friday. Then David Hart, one of the two partners (with Peter Krog) behind this project, indicated it might be open today (Thursday). When pressed on that, he said it might be today, or it might be Friday -- but in any event would not be trumpeted as "open."

The idea, he said, was for a "soft" opening where the personnel -- 80 people have been hired -- can find their pace and maximum proficiency without being inundated by a crowd.

But today, or Friday -- and "soft" or with great fanfare -- the opening is at hand. And one thing that seemed to stand out at Wednesday's ceremony was this: Almost anyone present, when asked for their opinion of the hotel, called it "amazing" or "four stars" or "beautiful."

The building, all earth tones on the outside, is similarly laid-back in its interior, with soft lighting and impressive looking furnishings. Its bar and dining room are a study in shiny woodwork, and its patio is a wonder of breezy comfort and a view that anyone who knows Seneca Lake understands.

That view is enhanced in the hotel's upper stories -- in rooms on the lake side of the structure, the ones with (understandably) higher rental tags.

Hallways are bedecked with wood-framed, enlarged historical photos of the Watkins Glen area. Original prints were loaned to hotel planners, who created the larger versions -- which had visitors Wednesday studying them closely. (See photo above.)

Wednesday's ceremony -- with speeches by the Buffalo-based Hart and Krog, along with words from Watkins Glen Mayor Judy Phillips and State Senator George Winner -- took place on the south side of the structure, which is its front entrance, facing First Street. Parking wraps around the west and south, with entrance gained from Franklin Street.

Senator Winner, the first of the speakers, deemed the hotel "spectacular" and said the Hart-Krog team "did a great job of putting this thing together. What a great day for Watkins Glen, and what a great day for Upstate. This is a real jewel."

Mayor Phillips said completion of the hotel was "a joy to see, the completion of a dream."

Krog, who years ago was deemed a designated developer for the site -- only to see it languish until a feasibility study two years ago convinced him of the wisdom of moving forward -- said the road to completion was "a long haul."

And Hart said the project completion was "really all about a team effort. And I don't just mean Peter's and my team. This community has really stepped up for us. We like to lead, but in this case we followed." The community, he said, had demonstrated "a hospitality that created a can-do mind-set."

Among the byproducts of the project are the 80 new jobs it has created for area residents. "This is not a matter of 'Build it and they will come,'" Hart said. "It's a matter of 'Build it and they will stay.'"

Not that everything is ready. First Street is still torn up for electrical, curbing and repaving work, and the ballroom on the east side of the building's ground floor is far from finished. That has a target date of August 12th. An adjoining meeting room is still being worked on, as is the room containing the pool -- which was being filled with water during Wednesday's festivities. Outdoors, the landscaping is under way but still in its early stages.

The hotel has 104 rooms, ranging widely in price depending on location (lake side versus street side) and season. The hope of officials is that such gatherings as conventions will generate attendance during winter months. They also see the hotel as a draw for wedding parties and reunions.

"I think the hotel will benefit all sectors" of the business community, said Kelsey Jones, executive director of the Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development. SCOPED was an advocate for the hotel from conception to completion.

"It will draw more people to the village to eat in its restaurants, and to shop at its other businesses," Jones said. And, he suggested, it could lead, by example, to further economic development.

Top: The entrance to the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, located on the building's south side.

Second: Photos on hallway walls show scenes of yesteryear in the Watkins Glen area.

Third: Two men occupy a top-floor balcony near the hotel crest overlooking Seneca Harbor.

Fourth: The hotel bar was open for private-party business following the ribbon cutting.

Enjoying Wednesday's hotel party were, from left, Watkins Glen School Superintendent Tom Phillips, Schuyler County Industrial Development Agency (SCIDA) chairman Kevin Murphy, and County Administrator Tim O'Hearn.

Hotel project partners David Hart, left, and Peter Krog before Wednesday's ribbon was cut.

Left: Kelsey Jones, executive director of the Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development. Right: Schuyler County Legislature Chairman Tom Gifford, right, next to Schuyler County Industrial Development Agency chairman Kevin Murphy at the ribbon-cutting.

Left: State Senator George Winner talks to Watkins Glen Mayor Judy Phillips. Right: A hallway stretches from the building's midpoint to its eastern end.

Building partners David Hart, left, and Peter Krog, right, join State Senator George Winner in a laugh at the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

WATKINS GLEN, July 16 -- A display of unopened, 30-year-old wine bottles graces a glass-fronted case visible from hallway and dining room at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel.

The display case was empty until Tuesday, when Jim O'Brien Sr., former owner of the Town House Restaurant in Watkins Glen, brought them up from his home in North Carolina as part of an agreement to sell them to the hotel.

He delivered 85 bottles, he said, some of them from wineries that no longer exist, and a couple signed by the late Walter Taylor, onetime owner of Bully Hill Vineyards.

O'Brien, who still has family in Watkins Glen, and his wife Rose Ann were on hand as guests at Wednesday's hotel ribbon-cutting, a ceremony that signaled the opening of the 104-room facility.

He said he obtained the wine during his ownership of the Town House from 1979-85. He had stocked only New York State wines.

When he saw on The Odessa File months ago that the hotel would be built, he got the idea that maybe builder David Hart would want to purchase his stock. That indeed proved to be the case, and thus the 85 bottles were delivered Tuesday.

Now, seeing the collection on display behind glass panels in the hotel, O'Brien was smiling.

Photo in text: Jim O'Brien Sr. studies the display of unopened vintage wine bottles he sold to hotel builder David Hart.

WATKINS GLEN, July 13 -- The Schuyler County Commission on Underage Drinking (SCCUD) has received a $1,000 grant from the Wal-Mart Corp.

The grant was obtained by store manager Terra Ellis at the request of Marcia Kasprzyk, Deputy Director of Public Health. The money will be used for the continuing education of the community surrounding the issues of underage drinking in Schuyler County.

WATKINS GLEN, July 13 -- The Arc of Schuyler recently recognized a number of employees for both their length of service and for the support that they have provided to the organization.

Denise York, service coordinator, was recognized for 26 years of service in various capacities during her time with the organization. Recognized for 15 years of service was Irene Brink, a direct support professional in The Arc's Day Habilitation program. Blaine Leipold, maintenance coordinator, was recognized for 13 years of service, and Linda Barber, a driver for The Arc, was recognized for 10 years of service.

Brenda Arcangeli, group leader in The Arc's Day Habilitation program; Nancy Brown, recreation coordinator; John Sebring, a driver; and Bill Taylor, a direct support professional at one of The Arc's homes, were all recognized for five years of service.

Recognized for three years of service were Brian Bockelkamp, director of Glen Industries; Travis Bentley, direct support professional in one of The Arc's homes; Ron Holt, medical support professional; and Crystal Peterson, another direct support professional providing residential support.

"Each of these individuals have been involved in assuring quality supports and services at The Arc, and we recognize their important contribution to the success of our organization and to the individuals we support," said Jim Wilson, executive director of The Arc.

MONTOUR FALLS, July 11 -- Ryan Hunter-Reay was not the only big winner involved in this year’s IndyCar race at Watkins Glen International. Hunter-Reay may have won the race, but Schuyler Hospital and the community the hospital serves took home a prize before the race even began.

That prize came in the form of a check for $2,500 from CARA (Championship Auto Racing Auxiliary) Charities.

Since 1981, CARA Charities has been donating money to worthwhile causes across the nation. This year it provided $2,500 locally to help the “Buckle Up Baby” program -- designed to provide car seats to families in need. Funds for that program have been distributed locally by the hospital since 2005.

“Many of today’s automobile safety features came from auto racing, so CARA’s support of child car safety is a natural fit,” said Jim Kuehl, Executive Director of Schuyler Health Foundation. “The Schuyler Health Foundation is thrilled to be a part of this program, and to help meet the needs of the local community that Schuyler Hospital serves.”

Schuyler Hospital will be distributing the car seats through its Stork's Landing Maternity Department. Mothers planning on giving birth or local families with small children can apply for a car seat by contacting Schuyler Hospital’s Stork’s Landing at (607) 535-8639, extension 2233.

From left, Co-President Annette Martin, Co-President Margaret Jensen, President-Elect Patricia Butler, Vice President Karen Cilley, Secretary Onalee Stamp, Treasurer Judith Coyle. (Photo provided)

WATKINS GLEN, June 2 -- The new officers of the Watkins Glen Business & Professional Women’s (BPW) local organization were installed at their May 19 meeting held at Carol Bower’s Catering.

Installing Officer was Christine Brown. New Officers installed for 2008-09 are: Co-President Annette Martin, Co-President Margaret Jensen, President-Elect Patricia Butler, Vice President Karen Cilley, Secretary Onalee Stamp and Treasurer Judith Coyle.

The club also recognized members who have more than 20 years of service each with BPW/USA. Pictured in the photo above are, seated left to right: Rosanna Smith (62 years), Mary Ellen Morgan (33) and Janice Brew (40). Standing left to right are: Anne Krolak (32 years), Helen Swank (41), Margaret Jensen (34) and Gloria Hutchings (20). Not pictured: Martha Evans (31 years), Marjorie Stermer (37), Margery Thyer (40), Mildred Denson (52) and Rosanna Smith (62).

The Watkins Glen BPW meets on the third Monday of each month. For more information about membership, contact Gloria Hutchings at 594-2489. The organization's website is watkinsglenbpw.org

And now a word from … the author in me

ODESSA, 2004 -- When I was a child, I dreamed of someday making a living writing.

I loved to be transported by novelists of my childhood to other worlds -- of danger, of beauty, of drama, of sports, of pathos.

If I got nothing but books for Christmas, that was okay by me. Keep the socks and the underwear and the ties, thanks. Just give me those books.

Eventually, I stumbled into journalism as a profession -- employed what I knew of writing, and learned something more about it every day.

Then, eventually, I stumbled out of journalism and, in my spare time, tried my hand at writing the novel I had longed to produce so many years before.

A friend I had worked with -- a fellow journalist -- read it and critiqued it, and found me wanting.

I tried writing another book, though, after a suitable period of mourning for my mutilated ego. What I produced was better … but still not very good.

Then, a couple of years later, I was inspired one night -- imbued with a spirit -- to write about an island my family and I had frequented when I was a very young boy.

The island is called Bois Blanc -- "White Woods" in French. It's located in Northern Michigan. I guess it never left my soul; was just waiting to emerge. And in a torrent of words, I fashioned a story based on my memories.

I showed it to only a couple of people outside my immediate family, but the reaction was encouraging. One professed to love it, and one wanted a sequel.

And so I tackled that sequel. It was quite an exercise, for I took some mythology, some religion, and a healthy dose of family history, and mixed it all together. That it came out coherent amazed me. But lacking confidence, I put it on the shelf.

About this time, the spirit moved me to do more than write about the island. One October, when the snow could conceivably have been falling there, I herded my family into our van and traveled to Bois Blanc. We stayed in a little shanty which -- had winter decided to visit -- would have left us easily frostbitten. But the days turned to Indian Summer, and the three-day stay was glorious.

From that visit, we established contact with people I had known in my childhood, forty years before, and lined up lodging the next summer in a house in the heart of the island's sole municipality -- a village called Pointe aux Pins (Point of Pines or, more commonly, simply The Pines).

With that visit in my experience bank, I went back and revised portions of the sequel, since part of it was set in the current day. I wanted things in the book reasonably reflecting reality, even though the story had fantasy elements.

In the ensuing two or three years, my family established a routine -- an annual visit of two or three weeks each summer on the island. Along the way, my eldest brother started going there, too, with his family -- also after forty years of absence.

And along the way, that sequel got pulled down from the shelf and dusted off and read by extended family members, and judged acceptable, even though I had turned family history upside down as a matter of plot device. And eventually I was emboldened to take advantage of emerging technology -- the ability to publish my own works relatively inexpensively through the Internet.

And I became that author I had long before wanted to be -- published, with the fruits of my labor within sturdy, shiny covers.

To say that I am commercially successful would be untrue. But I have readers up there on the island and on the nearby mainland, and readers among a retirement community to which my mother belongs in Florida, and readers among old friends, and readers in my wide-flung family of cousins.

Eventually, I wrote a third novel, set on the island but unrelated to the first two. It involves a portal and famed gangster John Dillinger and an old farmer I remember from my island childhoods who is long since deceased.

I published the story -- like the others, in paperback -- and circulated it on and near the island.

And then I started another novel -- about an Ojibwe woman born more than 700 years ago … and still alive today. It's called The Maiden of Mackinac, Mackinac being an island not far from Bois Blanc -- a tourist mecca of sorts. I circulated a hundred laser-printed, spiral-bound copies, and plan on publishing in traditional book form soon. Maybe the numbers will be there this time.

For instance, will this website ultimately capture enough readers and enough advertisers and enough sponsors to make it worth a continued effort?

But even if it doesn't, does that make it a failure? Or is the success in the trying -- in, first, the dreaming, and then in the doing?

The books I wrote and published and circulated in Northern Michigan -- a region called the Straits of Mackinac -- go by the following titles:

The first book was originally titled Summer Nights, since I was moved to write it on a summer night reminiscent of those on the island of my childhood. I changed the name to Island Nights at the suggestion of a retired professor who frequented the island. It wasn't that he didn't like the original; it was that I didn't, and asked for replacement candidates.

The second book was originally titled Autumn of the Moose, again not anything I particularly liked. The title was keyed to a plot point, but of course any prospective reader wouldn't know that. And so it seemed lacking. I'm kind of partial to its current name because of its simplicity and the question it might raise in a reader's mind as to whom it refers. Ambiguity I like.

The third title, Cabins in the Mist, came easily -- was my first choice for that book, and it held. Since key scenes occur at the site of some old rundown cabins in the island interior -- purportedly used by Dillinger after he had undergone plastic surgery back in 1934 -- and since the site serves the narrative as the aforementioned portal, the title worked.

And my newest concoction, The Maiden of Mackinac -- well, that title was in place before I ever wrote a word. That was a case of the title driving the narrative -- waiting for the narrative to catch up to it.

Those first three books are available, actually, in places other than the Straits region. I have some copies, listed in a Classified on this website. And you can purchase them online through Borders.com, Walmart.com, Amazon.com, and Xlibris.com.

You can just sign on to one of those sites, type Haeffner in the search box, and hit the button. Presto, there should be a listing of the books, with ordering instructions. The author's name appears as A.C. Haeffner. That's me -- my formal tag. The A and the C are my initials, but more importantly they belonged to my father and grandfather and great-grandfather and so on. Tradition won out.

The Glory Girls

A professionally bound, hardcover book was published two years ago to commemorate the state title won by the Odessa-Montour girls basketball team. Copies were given to each player on the team, and a number were sold to parents, friends and relatives.

There are still some remaining -- a limited-edition run of a high-caliber keepsake.

Titled "The Glory Girls," it contains 160 pages and nearly 200 photos. The book contains articles, interviews, game-by-game statistics, first person accounts from a couple of players (including state Class D Player of the Year Stefanie Collins), views from the players' parents, and much more.

If you wish to secure a copy, call the book's co-publisher, Charlie Haeffner, at 594-3594, and then send him a check or money order made out in his name for $29 plus $4 shipping. Mail it to: Charlie Haeffner, P.O. Box 365, Odessa, NY. Be sure to include your address and, if possible, a phone number.

There are also a handful of the books available with special, leather-like covers. The cost of those: $49 each plus $4 shipping.\