Click on the Ad above to go to the Sidle Insurance website. Click here to send an e-mail to the Sidle firm.

SchuyLines has arrived

SchuyLines.com, The Odessa File's sister publication designed to celebrate all things good about Schuyler County, is now online. For a look at the features-oriented website, just click here or on one of the logos above.

Hospital Auxiliary donates nearly $29,000

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Feb. 3 -- The Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary recently made its 2011 year-end annual donation to the hospital, with this year’s donation of nearly $29,000 targeted for the Schuyler Health Foundation's Family of Friends campaign..

Last spring, when Schuyler Hospital announced the campaign funds would finance renovation of its Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility, the fund-raising goal was $200,000. This fall, the hospital board voted to expand the project scope to include all resident rooms in the renovation, making the goal $400,000.

Today, work is well under way to “renovate, remodel and refresh” Seneca View. Before summer of 2012, the entire interior will get a top-to-bottom make-over -- including new kitchens, new living rooms, and updated dining space. All common areas and every resident room will be touched.

Andy Manzer, Schuyler Hospital President and CEO, acknowledged the success of this campaign to date and thanked Auxiliary members: “My staff and I are grateful beyond words for all the Auxiliary has done, and for all they continue to do, to serve and support this hospital. Their ongoing generosity and support will have a lasting impact on the lives of those who do and will come to find Seneca View home.”

The Auxiliary raises funds throughout the year, through the Hospital Gift Shop, a spring spaghetti dinner, raffles, bake sales, and partnering with the Schuyler Health Foundation on events including November Splendor.

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

Though the 2011 Family of Friends Campaign has wrapped up, donations are still welcome for the Seneca View project. To donate, contact the Schuyler Health Foundation at (607) 535-8879 ext. 226, or give on-line at www.schuylerhospital.org.

Photo in text: From left: Bill Little, Executive Director of the Schuyler Health Foundation; and Melissa Allmaier, Acting Director of the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility; accept a donation from Clara Greis, President of the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary; joined by Andy Manzer, President and CEO of Schuyler Hospital. (Photo provided)

Community Bank set to purchase HSBC branches, including one in Watkins Glen

Special to The Odessa File

SYRACUSE, Jan. 20 -- Community Bank System, Inc., through its banking subsidiary, Community Bank, N.A., has entered into purchase agreements to acquire 19 branch locations across Upstate New York from First Niagara Bank, N.A. and HSBC Bank USA, N.A.

Branches to be acquired include the one in Watkins Glen, along with 15 others -- in Gowanda, Springville, Westfield, Palmyra, Newark, Geneseo, Avon, Watertown (2), Plattsburgh, Oswego, Fulton, Lowville, Adams, and Alexandria Bay. Also included are three current First Niagara branches in Geneva (2) and Canandaigua.

The HSBC branches are being sold by First Niagara in connection with its pending acquisition of HSBC's Upstate New York banking franchise. Under the terms of the agreements, Community Bank will acquire approximately $218 million in loans and $955 million in deposits.

"We're excited by this opportunity to further strengthen Community Bank's service footprint across our existing Upstate New York market area," said President and Chief Executive Officer Mark E. Tryniski. "This acquisition is consistent with our long-term growth strategy and leverages a strong competency developed during previous successful branch acquisitions."

Community Bank, First Niagara and HSBC will communicate with customers of these branches to explain potential changes to their banking relationships following the transfer. There will be no changes to customer accounts prior to the transaction closing. Customers of the acquired branches need not take any action at this time, officials said.

"Our team will be working closely with employees of First Niagara and HSBC to ensure a smooth transition, which we expect will be virtually seamless for customers," said Tryniski.

The transaction is expected to close during the third quarter of 2012, subject to regulatory review and approval.

Headquartered in DeWitt, N.Y., Community Bank System, Inc. has $6.5 billion in assets and over 170 customer facilities.

Farm program sign-ups begin Jan. 23

Special to The Odessa File

SENECA FALLS, Jan. 19 -- The USDA New York Farm Service Agenacy (FSA) is reminding producers that enrollment for the Average Crop Revenue Election program (ACRE) or the traditional Direct and Counter-cyclical Program (DCP) begins Jan .23 and runs through June 1.

"Farmers in Seneca and Schuyler counties who are interested in enrolling in these programs need to add this important deadline to their list of 'must do' jobs," said FSA County Executive Director Kathy Mastellar. "Producers should contact the local county office to set up appointments."

Annual contracts are required to be signed to receive program benefits. All signatures of producers receiving a share in DCP and ACRE payments are required by June 1.

For more information about DCP and ACRE programs or other FSA programs, contact your county FSA office or visit the state FSA website at www.fsa.usda.gov/NY.

Hospital earns 2 Tour de Cure awards

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Jan. 18 -- Schuyler Hospital recently received two awards from the American Diabetes Association at the organization's 2011 Finger Lakes Tour de Cure wrap-up celebration.

The hospital was recognized as both a top sponsor and as a top team, with volunteer participants raising over $3,700 to fight diabetes.

“As soon as the American Diabetes Association (ADA) brought the Tour de Cure to our area, Schuyler Hospital signed on as a sponsor," said Michelle Benjamin, the hospital's Community Relations Director. "We want to help the ADA spread the word about diabetes and related health issues, which are so prominent in our area.

“Last year was our first year putting together a team of riders,” Benjamin added, “And we were surprised and thrilled to have such a large and generous team to support the cause.”

Schuyler Hospital is once again recruiting staff members as well as community members to be a part of its Tour de Cure team to raise funds and participate in the bicycle riding event. Team members of all ages and skill levels are welcome, and can choose from course lengths of 5 miles to 100 miles.

To join the Schuyler Hospital team for the August 18 event that kicks off in Montour Falls, contact Michelle Benjamin at (607) 210-1950 or benjaminm@schuylerhospital.org

Photo in text: The hospital's Tour de Cure awards. (Photo provided)

Hospital receives Smokeout Award

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Jan. 15 -- American Cancer Society representatives visited Schuyler Hospital recently to celebrate the evidence-based work being done by the hospital to reduce tobacco use in Schuyler County.

Schuyler Hospital CEO Andrew Manzer was presented with the American Cancer Society’s Great American Smokeout Award by Diana Cahill, the Society’s regional vice president of the Southern NY region.

Cigarette smoking is the primary known preventable cause of premature death in the U.S. with nearly one of every five deaths being smoking related. This surpasses the combined death toll due to alcohol, car accidents, suicides, homicides, HIV disease, and illicit drug use.

Cardiovascular disease, respiratory diseases and 1/3 of all cancers including lung, lip, pharynx, esophagus, pancreas, larynx, cervix, uterus, bladder and kidney are attributable to tobacco smoke.

In Schuyler County, lung and bronchus cancer accounts for 15.8% of all cancer cases and 28.4% of all cancer deaths. This, hospital officials have stressed, highlights the crucial need for prevention and cessation of tobacco use.

Schuyler Hospital received the Great American Smokeout Award to recognize efforts that improve the delivery of evidenced-based interventions to tobacco-using patients through the clinical setting in order to decrease the burden of tobacco use on the community.

The clinical staff at the hospital has worked over the past several years to put policies in place to insure that:

§ 80% of inpatients are asked about tobacco use; advised to quit and assisted in their attempts by the clinical staff

§ 80% of inpatients who ask to speak to a cessation counselor are counseled

§ 80% of cessation consults ordered by a patient’s doctor are completed

§ Inpatients who consent are automatically referred to the New York State Quitline through faxed referral at discharge

§ A written policy to address tobacco dependence with patients is in place

§ Tobacco free grounds policy

These efforts, on behalf of the entire hospital, have been stewarded and championed by Karen Hetrick, Director of Cardiopulmonary Services to insure that these policies have been developed, implemented and enforced.

“Schuyler Hospital has demonstrated its commitment to the health of this community,” said Cahill. “They are implementing ongoing interventions that will begin to reduce the devastating impact of tobacco use on Schuyler County.”

Photo in text: Diane Cahill (center), Regional Vice President for the American Cancer Society, presents the “Great American Smokeout Award” to Karen Hetrick, Director of CardioPulmonary Services at Schuyler Hospital (left), and Andy Manzer, hospital President and CEO.

Hunt firm increases its planning services

Special to The Odessa File

HORSEHEADS, Jan. 4 -- Hunt Engineers, Architects & Land Surveyors, P.C. has taken steps to enhance planning services for clients in the private and public sectors.

Planning, also called urban planning or city and regional planning, works to improve communities by creating more convenient, equitable, healthful, efficient, and attractive places for present and future generations. Professional planners help create a broad vision for the community. They also research, design, and develop programs; lead public processes; effect social change; perform technical analyses; manage; and educate.

Certified planner Nicolette Barber (at right), AICP, recently joined Hunt to provide consulting services to the firm's clients, which include schools, municipalities, and private-sector businesses.

“Planners provide the expertise needed to support community problem solving and decision-making,” said Barber. “We work through a planning and public participation process to bring locally-devised initiatives to fruition. Our team of planners, designers and engineers recognizes that planning requires a comprehensive approach addressing all dimensions of an issue—utilizing social, planning, quantitative, and design skills.”

Barber is a Columbia University graduate with a Master’s Degree in Urban Planning. She completed her undergraduate degree at Duke University, and worked for several years in the New York City area and north of the capital district. She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners, and volunteers as a member of the City of Corning Planning Commission. She and her husband have two children and live in Corning, New York.

Photo in text: Nicolette Barber (Photo provided)

Habitat for Humanity information night set

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Dec. 31 -- The Southern Finger Lakes Women (SFLW), a chapter of New York State Women, Inc., will sponsor a Habitat for Humanity Open House and Public Information Night at the Montour Falls Moose Lodge at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 16.

Schuyler County Habitat for Humanity committee members and volunteers will be present to answer questions and provide an overview of what the group does. It is an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, which builds homes for families in need throughout the United States and many foreign countries.

The mission of New York State Women, Inc., is to achieve equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education and information. The organization includes women and men of every age, race, religion, political party and socio-economic background. The Southern Finger Lakes Women Chapter meets on the 3rd Monday of each month.

For more information about the SFLW, contact Gloria Hutchings at (607) 594-2489 or JoAnne Krolak at (607) 732-1171. For more information about Schuyler County Habitat for Humanity, contact Patti Butler at (607) 535-2275.

SFLW presents gifts to local seniors

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Dec. 30 -- The Southern Finger Lakes Women (SFLW), a chapter of New York State Women, Inc., recently presented handmade slippers and large print books to the residents of The Falls Home in Montour Falls.

The Falls Home is an assisted living facility for 92 persons. It provides residential care, activities, meals, recreation and health monitoring.

The slippers were part of a special surprise Christmas stocking for each resident. The books
are being added to the residents’ library.

The slippers and books were presented by Sue Gigliotti, who represented the SFLW, to Nancy
Shumway, Activities Director of the Falls Home.

Watkins Chamber to relocate and expand its Visitor Center

Moving into what has been the Seneca Lake General Store

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Dec. 22 -- The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce will have a new location in May of 2012. A lease between the Chamber and local business owner James Guild was signed Thursday formalizing the move of the Visitor Center to 214 North Franklin St., Watkins Glen -- currently the Seneca Lake General Store.

Rob Halpin, chairman of the Chamber’s Board of Directors said, “The Chamber's efforts to improve its Visitors Center have been ongoing since before my involvement in the organization. The Board of Directors is pleased that these efforts are finally coming to fruition, and looks forward to moving ahead with this and the other elements of the Chamber's strategic plan.”

“I am so excited to be able to offer our visitors and members a new facility,” said Rebekah LaMoreaux, Chamber president & CEO. “We truly love our current location (at 100 N. Franklin St.), but we’ve outgrown the building. With all of the amazing strides we’ve made as a tourism destination, we want our Visitors Center to reflect our beautiful community and meet the needs of our guests.”

The current Visitor’s Center is 1,700 square feet and does not have a public restroom. The new location is 5,100 square feet (three times larger) and will undergo a renovation process over the next several months as it transforms into the new Chamber and Visitors Center. It will include public restrooms and much more.

Dawn Burlew, chairwoman of the Chamber’s Visitor Center Task Force, said, “The Visitor Center Task Force has done its due diligence and feels that the General Store location will be the premier visitor center to welcome tourists and represent the brand for the area. It will allow for future growth if the need should arise.”

James Guild, owner of Seneca Lake General Store said, “As a longtime Chamber member, I am thrilled that the Chamber will be upgrading to a beautiful new Visitors Center. And at the same time I am happy to announce that the Seneca Lake General Store will be opening in the spring at a new location. This is definitely something that we can all be proud of!”

Guild said the new General Store would be near his present Famous Brands store. The current General Store did not meet traffic expectations, he said.

The Chamber plans to move to its new home in the spring, just before the summer tourism season begins.

New event set for June 2-3: Seneca Lake Wine and Food

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Dec. 20 -- An inaugural event, Seneca Lake Wine and Food, is scheduled for June 2nd and 3rd, 2012 at Clute Park in Watkins Glen.

The event will highlight local Seneca Lake wineries and eateries only. With the scenery of Seneca Lake as backdrop, attendees will be able to sample wines from the local wineries and food from the local eateries all weekend long. In addition to wine and food, there will be other local products for sale. There will be about 40 wineries and 30 eateries participating in the event, which will also feature live music.

Seneca Lake Wine and Food, says Jeff Dill, owner of J.R. Dill Winery, who is helping to organize the event, "will mark the first time you will be able to enjoy all of what Seneca Lake has to offer in one location at one time. It is a great opportunity to experience wineries and eateries you may never have been to simultaneously. It’s really a one-of-a-kind event."

Added Dill: “It has been exciting to see the growth of the area and see the quality of wine and food establishments on Seneca.”

Tickets are on sale now via the event's website. To secure yours, or for more information about Seneca Lake Wine and Food 2012, visit www.senecalakewineandfood.com or e-mail info@senecalakewineandfood.com.

Note: To receive a $15 discount on your ticket, use this code: odessafile15

------------------------

Cayuga Medical Center, Schuyler Hospital sign affiliation agreement

Special to The Odessa File

ITHAC, Dec. -- Cayuga Medical Center and Schuyler Hospital announced Thursday they have entered into a long-term affiliation agreement that will allow both hospitals to collaborate, plan, and enhance the delivery of health care services in Schuyler County. Both hospitals, officials said, will continue to remain independent.

As part of the agreement, Schuyler Hospital and Cayuga Medical Center will explore collaborations in a number of support and clinical areas that will be mutually beneficial to both organizations. In addition, officials said they will work together on regional health planning that will meet the current and future health care needs of patients throughout the region.

Cayuga Medical Center and Schuyler Hospital have already identified two areas of collaboration that will be an immediate focus: orthopedics and obstetrics. Teams from both hospitals have been meeting to develop action plans that will improve access for patients.

“Schuyler Hospital shares the same community hospital mission that we have at Cayuga Medical Center,” said Cayuga Medical Center President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Rob Mackenzie. "The affiliation agreement will allow us to work together and find solutions to the challenges we face in health care today. We are looking forward to working with their leadership team, physicians, employees, and volunteers to create a comprehensive plan that will deliver the highest quality health care services to the residents of Schuyler County,

“This an exciting new partnership and new direction for Schuyler Hospital and the residents of this community – one that we expect will bring growth and long-term viability to the hospital in the face of challenging economic times,” said Andy Manzer, President and Chief Executive Officer for Schuyler Hospital. “We have been pleased to find that the staff at Cayuga Medical Center shares our passion for compassionate, patient-centered care, and for meeting the needs of our community. By affiliating with Cayuga Medical Center, we are bringing our community access to high quality health services, as well as connections to nationally-recognized care, close-to-home.”

Cayuga Medical Center is a 204-bed, state-of-the art regional medical center and is affiliated with many health care organizations, including Cornell University’s Weill Medical College, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, the Rochester Heart Institute at Rochester General Hospital, the University of Rochester Medical Center Department of Orthopedics, and Mayo Medical Laboratories. For more information on services available at the medical center and its satellite campuses, visit www.cayugamed.org or call (607) 274-4498.

Schuyler Hospital is a 25-bed critical access hospital, with a 120-bed skilled nursing facility attached. While Schuyler Hospital’s main campus is located in Montour Falls, the hospital has evolved over nearly 100 years to reach throughout Schuyler County and into southern Yates and Seneca Counties. With a variety of services, Schuyler Hospital is what its offiicals call a healthcare “security blanket” for the entire family. To find out more about Schuyler Hospital, visit www.schuylerhospital.org or call (607) 535-7121.

The Arc appoints Director of Programs

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Dec. 13 -- The Arc of Schuyler has appointed Kris Earl as its Director of Programs -- overseeing The Arc’s nursing, residential services, and day and community supports departments.

“I am thrilled to be joining The Arc and look forward to working with staff, families, and people receiving supports to provide the best services for people with disabilities and to create new opportunities for learning, growth, and community inclusion,” Earl said.

Earl has a Bachelors degree in Special Education from Mansfield University and a Masters degree in Elementary Literacy from Walden University in Maryland. She previously worked as a special education teacher and work-study transition coordinator at the GST Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) and as Assistant Principal for the Elmira City School District’s Fassett School.

In addition, she has been the Director of Rotary District 7120’s Camp STAR program since 2004 and was previously a Camp STAR counselor for 13 years. The camp provides a weeklong outdoor camping experience for young students with disabilities.

Jeannette Frank, Executive Director of The Arc, said, “Kris’s experience in many leadership roles and in the field of developmental disabilities will be an asset to The Arc as we face many new and exciting challenges.”

In her role, Earl will assist The Arc in advancing its objectives to expand learning opportunities for people with disabilities, improve the rate of community job placement, and employ more use of technology in its programs.

The Arc of Schuyler is a family-based organization providing supports and services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism. For more information, visit www.arcofschuyler.org, or call 607-535-6934.

Photo in text: Kris Earl (Photo provided)

Eggs at Eight topic: Speed networking

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Dec. 5 -- The Business and Education Committee of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce will host the next small-business roundtable discussion, Eggs at Eight, on Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 8 a.m. at Classic Chef’s between Watkins Glen and Montour Falls

Speed “networking” is the name of the game at this month’s roundtable discussion. At this unique breakfast, participants will have three to five minutes to present their business or organizational overview to other attendees in hopes of making valuable industry and networking contacts.

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 Chamber at 607-535-4300 or email Katie Strawser at katie@watkinsglenchamber.com.

Montour Pharmacy being sold, closing its doors Dec. 6

MONTOUR FALLS, Dec. 1 -- The Montour Pharmacy, a staple of downtown Montour Falls for decades, is being sold to CVS pharmacy and closing its doors for good on Tuesday, Dec. 6.

While no announcements have been forthcoming from CVS or the seller, Henderson Holding Co., word has circulated of the closing. Former owner Nick Anagnost, who sold the business and building to Henderson chief Larry Jepsen in 2003, said Jepsen informed him of the sale in a courtesy call Tuesday.

Employees of the store were told of the sale and closure by Jepsen earlier this week. Anagnost said CVS is removing all of the merchandise in the store and transferring it to its Watkins Glen operation. CVS is located locally in the Tops Plaza.

Montour Falls Mayor John King said he still lacks details about the deal -- specifically whether it precludes use of the building by another pharmacist. Anagnost said it does, but added: "That's not to say another pharmacy couldn't open elsewhere in the village."

But it brings to an end a social tradition followed by many residents who would go to the bank and post office across the street and then congregate at the Montour Pharmacy -- a store that went beyond pharmacy service with magazines, gifts and various collectible merchandise.

A phone call by The Odessa File to Jepsen Wednesday failed to produce a return call. But Anagnost said he was told that the sale is for the business and merchandise, and that the Henderson firm will continue as building owner. Looking on the bright side, he suggested that the vacancy "will open an opportunity for someone" of a non-pharmacy nature "to come in there. An independent business, properly run," could do well, he said.

But the loss of such a longstanding, popular business, he added, "is a sad thing."

Mayor King, meanwhile, said he is trying to find out more about the sale and what Jepsen's subsequent plans are for the building. "We'll be looking at all our options," he said, noting that to let the building stand vacant would "be devastating to the village."

The village has had a pharmacy as far back as the 1890s. It moved to its present location after a fire destroyed the business block it was on in 1938. C.R. Mack bought the business from Leroy Buchanan in 1950, and was joined by Anagnost in a partnership that ran from 1966 until Mack's retirement nine years later. Anagnost then ran the store alone for nearly 30 years.

Left: Chamber President Rebekah LaMoreaux. Right: Treasurer Tony Fraboni.

Chamber membership holds annual session

HECTOR, Nov. 17 -- Members of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce approved a $600,000 budget for 2012 and conducted their annual Board of Directors election Wednesday night at the Chamber's annual meeting, held at Red Newt Winery and Bistro.

Named Board Chair for 2012 was current First Vice Chairwoman Vicki Schamel. She will succeed Rob Halpin (right). Named Second Vice Chairman was Carl Blowers.

Approval of the budget -- by voice consent without any opposition -- followed a report on the Chamber finances by Treasurer Tony Fraboni. Also speaking to the membership were Halpin; Chamber President/CEO Rebekah LaMoreaux; Tourism and Marketing Director Nikita Hairston; and, in a joint report, Visitor Center Coordinator Katie Strawser and Tourism and Information Coordinator Jillian Kubasik.

The annual meeting -- in Red Newt's wine-sales room -- followed a social gathering and registration period in the bistro.

Photo in text: Chamber Board Chairman Rob Halpin.

Open House to feature Seneca View progress

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Nov. 15 -- Work on a complete renovation of Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility has begun, with construction underway on expanding kitchens and creating living room areas on all three units of the facility.

On Wednesday, November 30 at 7 p.m., area residents can take a guided tour through Seneca View to see progress on the project, and get an update on the 2011 Family of Friends Campaign that is funding it.

Campaign co-chairs Max Neal and Ken Wilson will lead the tour, which directly follows the annual Festival of Lights ceremony in the lobby of Seneca View. All are welcome to the Festival of Lights, which begins at 6:30 p.m.

The guided tour is free, and no reservations are needed.

Also happening November 30th from 5-7 p.m.: You can find out more about the Center for Medical Weight Loss with an Open House at September Hill. The Center -- for men and women -- will open December 1st at September Hill, under the direction of Dr. William Saks.

To find out more, email info@schuylerhospital.org, or go to www.schuylerhospital.org

Indoor Yard Sale to benefit Seneca View

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Nov. 15 -- A yard sale in December? Sure – if it’s indoors!

The staff of Seneca View is planning an Indoor Yard and Bake Sale for Sunday, December 4th, from noon-6 p.m., at the Watkins Glen Community Center.

The sale will benefit the 2011 Family of Friends Campaign, which has a goal of completely renovating the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility.

Available at the sale: baked goods and new or very gently used household items. And you could win a cake at the Cake Walk game.

If you would like to help or donate goods, contact Emily Grimmke at (607) 535-8639 ext. 2290 or Jackie Collins at (607) 535-8639 ext. 2365.

To find out more about the 2011 Family of Friends Campaign, or to donate on-line, go to www.schuylerhospital.org

Holiday bazaar and bake sale planned

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Nov. 7 -- You can celebrate a tradition that is 35 years old this year, and start your holiday shopping early.

Thirty-five years ago, the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary held its first holiday Gift Shop & Bake Sale on a November Friday just prior to Thanksgiving. This year’s Holiday Bazaar and Bake Sale is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 11 from 7 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Auxiliary’s Gift Shop, located on the lower level of Schuyler Hospital.

In 1976, the Auxiliary was a newly formed organization -- merging the former Pink Ladies and Hospital Guild under the leadership of Janet Cotton, President.

In 2011, Clara Greis, President, welcomes all to the Gift Shop's “Winter Wonderland” for a wide variety of gifts suitable for young and old, and in all price ranges. In addition to the Bake Sale, the event also features chances at three festive raffle baskets.

Next up for the Auxiliary -- another longstanding tradition -- is the Festival of Lights on Wednesday, Nov. 30. To purchase a “light,” call (607) 292-3805 or go to www.schuylerhospital.org

Eggs at Eight focus: A balanced life

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Nov. 1 -- The Business and Education Committee of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce will host its next small-business roundtable discussion, Eggs at Eight, at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 8 at Classic Chef’s between Watkins Glen and Montour Falls.

Are you struggling with keeping your life in harmony while trying to coordinate work, children, aging parents, friends, hobbies, and planning for the future? At this roundtable, Attorney Joshua Navone will share his secrets on “creating a balanced life.”

Navone is an assistant district attorney in Schuyler County, has law offices located in Elmira, and is the owner of Schooner Excursions on Seneca Lake. He will provide an inside look at what has worked in his life. His advice is:

* Prioritize your life and get organized.
* Set your goals and follow through.
* Don’t get frazzled - Life is too short.
* Be honest with yourself and others.

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 a seat, contact the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce at 607-535-4300 or email Katie Strawser at katie@watkinsglenchamber.com.

Developer Bruce Nelson, right, and SCOPED Executive Director Kelsey Jones talk outside the entrance to the new child-care center, which opens in January.

Montour Falls child-care center receives $150,000 grant from Regional Commission

MONTOUR FALLS, Oct. 26 -- A celebration was held Tuesday in the parking lot at the eastern end of the former Rural-Urban Center in Montour Falls.

It was a news conference announcing a $150,000 Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) grant for the new child-care facility being built on the lower level of the old Center -- which in the past year has undergone a transformation from offices to eight (already rented) upstairs apartments, and will soon be a gathering place for children from early morning (6 a.m.) to late at night (10 p.m.) Monday through Friday.

The child-care center, to be directed by Audrey Edmister, now has a name, announced by Edmister at the press conference: My Place -- A Play and Learning Center.

Construction workers are busy building the facility, which will consist of five rooms, four of them age-specific, and one for overflow. There are also offices, which will house Center staff and the Schuyler County Child Care Coordinating Council, which is overseeing the project and which applied for and received the grant. The Coordinating Council is currently situated at 235 S. Catharine St. in Montour Falls.

The new business is scheduled to open in mid-January. Edmister said there are more than a dozen families already on a list to be notified when the application process begins -- which will be Nov. 1st. The Center will also soon be filling staffing positions, which will total 22 people in the roles of teachers, teaching assistants and aides.

Daytime enrollment is expected to total 59 children, with about 30 during the evening hours. Children will range from 6 weeks to 12 years of age.

The ARC grant, a matching one, will help pay for startup costs such as equipment, furnishings, a refrigerator and a phone system. "We're starting bare-bones," said Edmister. Equipment for the playground will be installed in a lawn area behind garages at the rear of the property.

The building, known now as the Flats on Broadway, was reconfigured over the past year by developer Bruce Nelson, who before that renovated the Montour House. He has, said Schuyler County Administrator Tim O'Hearn in remarks at Tuesday's ceremony, "become the developer of the county. Everything he touches turns to gold."

By taking over and renovating the Rural-Urban Center -- formerly county-owned -- Nelson has "put the building back on the tax rolls, met a housing need and filled a child-care need," said O'Hearn.

Also speaking at the ceremony were Debbie MacDonald, executive director of the Coordinating Council, who said it was "an exciting day." She thanked Nelson for "his vision," and thanked Kelsey Jones, executive director of the Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development (SCOPED), for "bringing community leaders together" to discuss the idea of the child care center, and helping it come to fruition.

Also present was Marcia Weber (right), executive director of the Southern Tier Central Regional Planning & Development Board, which she said is the "local development office for the ARC."

She said the ARC is "delighted to be able to fund" the child-care project, which "I know has been needed in Schuyler County for years."

The new center, said Edmister and MacDonald, will supplement the services provided by the dozens of child-care providers in the county -- offering service at non-traditional times, for example, both early in the morning and well into the night.

"It addresses gaps," said O'Hearn in his address. "It will enhance our ability to find and sustain" workers who in the past have had difficulty both working and finding child care at the hours their jobs demanded.

"It exemplifies Schuyler County," O'Hearn added, noting that the county is "small in size but large in spirit. This project will be another step" in the county's goal to "realize a prosperous community."

Photos in text:

Top: Child-care center director Audrey Edmister, left, and Schuyler County Child Care Coordinating Council Executive Director Debbie MacDonald.

Middle: Montour Falls Mayor John King talks to Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce President Rebekah LaMoreaux inside the center before the news conference. The bright light behind him is from the open entrance to the facility, covered only by clear plastic while the facility is under construction on the ground floor of the former Rural-Urban Center..

Bottom: Marcia Weber of the Southern Tier Central Regional Planning & Development Board speaks at the news conference.

Medical Weight Loss Clinic set to open

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Oct. 25 -- The Center for Medical Weight Loss, a national network of physicians with medical expertise in the field of weight loss, will soon open its newest center -- in Montour Falls under the direction of Dr. William Saks.

The Center for Medical Weight Loss at September Hill will begin accepting patients in December. An Open House has been scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 30 from 5-7 p.m. at September Hill for those wishing to find out more about the program.

According to a press release, Dr. Saks’ aim in opening the Center is "to provide people with weight issues access to compassionate, dedicated professional specialists."

Founded in 2002 by Dr. Michael S. Kaplan, a specialist in Bariatric Medicine, the Center for Medical Weight Loss offers clients "a long-term weight loss approach managed with the full support of certified medical professionals," the press release said.

Each fully individualized program, it added, "is supported with ongoing one-on-one care including nutrition, fitness, medication, behavioral motivation and counseling. Physicians at The Center for Medical Weight Loss use the latest techniques and medical data available in the field of Bariatric medicine, including access to high quality nutritional products available only to medical doctors. Also available to clients: the latest FDA approved weight loss medications."

The average weight loss result experienced by Center for Medical Weight Loss clients is 21 pounds in four weeks, the press release said, adding: "In addition to the weight loss itself, associated health benefits are multiple, including a decrease in dependence on blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol medications as well as lesser risk of chronic diseases such as congestive heart failure, clinical depression, sleep apnea and lymphedema."

For further information, or to schedule an appointment, contact September Hill at (607) 535-4645, or email info@schuylerhospital.org

SFLW awards scholarship to Oakes

WATKINS GLEN, Oct. 20 -- The Southern Finger Lakes Women (SFLW), a Chapter of New York State Women, Inc., has presented its 2011 Women’s Career Enhancement Scholarship to Wendy Oakes of Burdett. The award was presented at the group's October 17th meeting.

The SFLW started the Women’s Career Enhancement Scholarship program in 2008 as part of its objective of “women helping women.” The scholarships provide assistance to women 25 years of age and older who are furthering their education.

Oakes currently works weekends at Schuyler Hospital and attends the BOCES LPN
(Licensed Practical Nursing) program full-time during the week. She is a single mother of three children and impressed the Scholarship Committee with her determination and willingness to work and to continue to create a better life for herself and her family.

"She is highly motivated and it was obvious from her application that she set achievable goals for herself every step of the way," the SFLW said in a press release.

New York State Women, Inc., 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. The Southern Finger Lakes Women Chapter meets on the third Monday of each month. For more information about the group, contact Gloria Hutchings at (607) 594-2489 or JoAnne Krolak at (607) 732-1171.

For more information about the scholarship program, contact Patti Butler at (607) 535-2275.

Photo in text: Scholarship Chair Patti Butler, left, and Wendy Oakes, the 2011 Career Enhancement Scholarship Winner. (Photo provided)

SFLW names Hunter 'Woman of Year'

WATKINS GLEN, Oct. 20 -- The Southern Finger Lakes Women (SFLW), a Chapter of New York State Women, Inc., has presented its annual “Woman of the Year” award to Karen Hunter of Montour Falls.

The presentation, made at the group's meeting on Monday, Oct. 17, is part of New York State Women, Inc.’s observance of “New York State Women in Business Week,” which recognizes the accomplishments of women in business and the professions in New York State.

Hunter graduated from Odessa-Montour High School. She received degrees in Business Administration from Corning Community College and The Arts-Computer Graphic Design from Empire State College. She is currently employed by Greater Southern Tier BOCES as a Virtual Worlds Coordinator.

Hunter chaired the New York State Women’s Personal Development Committee for 2011-12
and was the vice-chair of the organization’s Youth Leadership Committee for the same period.
Locally, she is a past president of Southern Finger Lakes Women and designed and maintains the chapter’s website, www.sflw.org.

The mission of New York State Women, Inc., is to achieve equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education and information. The organization includes women and men of every age, race, religion, political party and socio-economic background.

The Southern Finger Lakes Women Chapter meets on the third Monday of each month. For more information about the group, contact Gloria Hutchings at (607) 594-2489 or JoAnne Krolak at (607) 732-1171.

Dr. James W. and Rita T. Carmony (far right), along with their extended family -- the William A. Tague, William F. Tague, Sal Purpura and Tom Seem families. (Photo provided)

Family makes $10,000 group gift in honor of its patriarch, Dr. William F. Tague Sr.

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Oct. 13 -- The Honorary Chairs for the 2011-12 Family of Friends Campaign, Dr. James W. and Rita T. Carmony, along with their extended family -- the William A. Tague, William F. Tague, Sal Purpura, and Tom Seem families -- recently announced a family gift of over $10,000 to the campaign.

The gift honors the memory and vision of Dr. William F. Tague, Sr. Dr. Tague served Schuyler Hospital as Chief of Obstetrics from 1950-1989, and then as Medical Director of Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility from 1988-1999 – totalling 49 years of professional service to his work and community.

The Carmonys say gifts continue to come in from family members and friends near and far and representing multiple generations -- all wishing to honor Dr. Tague’s legacy as family patriarch, physician and hospital leader.

The 2011 Family of Friends Campaign is raising funds to “renovate, remodel and refresh” Tague’s former passion, Seneca View – with program enhancements he often talked about.

“My late husband knew the residents wished for the comforts of home – and the comforts of having their family nearby,” said Rita Tague-Carmony. “He would be delighted to see the outpouring of support in his name, for the benefit of Seneca View.”

“Schuyler County and the hospital have been center-stage in my family for as long as I can remember,” added Bill Tague, Jr. “My dad often talked about the special needs of caring for elderly patients. This struck a chord with my family and my in-laws, Sal and Maria Purpura, because caring for family is so deeply ingrained in their Italian heritage.” In addition to being family, Tague and the Purpuras are partners in owning /operating Jerlando’s Ristorante and Pizzeria.

Charitable donations are often triggered by loving memories of someone who touched the life of the donor, according to Bill Little, Executive Director of the Schuyler Health Foundation. Little added, “This kind of gift is a lasting testament -- a ‘gift in memory of’ or a ‘gift to honor.’ We have found that fundraising for Seneca View has caused many to reflect on family and friends whose lives were or are touched by that facility.”

If interested in making a donation, contact the Schuyler Health Foundation at (607) 535-8879 ext. 226 or donate on-line at www.schuylerhospital.org

Business center plans startup workshop

Special to The Odessa File

CORNING, Oct. 11 -- Corning Community College’s Small Business Development Center is offering “Some Things You Should Know Before Starting A Business” on Thursday, Oct. 27 from 9:00-10:30 a.m. at the Business Development Center, 24 Denison Parkway West, Room 111, Corning.

The workshop is designed for anyone thinking about starting a small business. It will point out some of the things to know prior to taking the big step of business ownership. It’s designed for the prospective owner in the beginning stage of the process. There will be ample time for questions and answers.

Pre-registration is required by Oct. 25. To register or for more information, call the SBDC at 607-937-6861 or e-mail sbdc@corning-cc.edu

Free business assistance is available

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Oct. 6 -- Free and confidential business assistance will be available on Thursday, October 20 at SCOPED (Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development), 2 North Franklin Street, Watkins Glen.

The assistance is provided through Corning Community College's Small Business Development Center in Corning. Services are available for:

Marketing -- Business plan development
Recordkeeping -- Loan packaging
Legal requirements -- Establishing a payroll

Call (607) 937-6861 or e-mail sbdc@corning-cc.edu to schedule an appointment.

Eggs at Eight subject: Diffusing anger

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Oct. 6 -- The art of diffusing angry people and turning them into allies instead of enemies -- and the impact that can have on business -- will be the topic of the next Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce Eggs at Eight breakfast session.

The meeting will be at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 11, at Classic Chef's on Route 14, between Montour Falls and Watkins Glen.

Decreased motivation, lower productivity, increased turnover, lost contracts, and verbal backstabbing are a few problems that angry, disgruntled people can cause. Executive Coach Andrew Taylor will discuss the tools needed to diffuse angry people in a professional setting.

In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn a four-step protocol developed in Canada by a communications expert. The protocol is used internationally by large and small businesses to diffuse angry people and move them into a more cooperative role. A live demonstration will be given, followed by a small group practice.

To register for the breakfast, call the Chamber at 607-535-4300 or email Katie Strawser at katie@watkinsglenchamber.com.

'Senior Night' will focus on cholesterol

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Oct. 1 -- In an ongoing partnership, the Schuyler County Office for the Aging (OFA) and Schuyler Hospital have scheduled their second in a series of “Senior Nights” – with a focus on cholesterol.

The next Senior Night will be Tuesday, Oct. 25 from 5-7 p.m. at the Hospital’s Primary Care Center, 230 Steuben St., Montour Falls.

Featuring a presentation by Dr. Ben Saks on cholesterol, the evening will also provide free screenings for cholesterol and blood glucose, blood pressure, balance, oxygen levels, and carbon monoxide levels. Plus, learn more about Medicare from the OFA, and get your questions answered about advance directives. Refreshments and door prizes will also be offered.

Anyone age 50 and over is invited to the Senior Nights. Please, no children. Transportation is available for this event through Office for the Aging on a limited basis. Contact Office for the Aging at 535-7108 to make arrangements.

This program is open to all at no charge and is offered through the Schuyler County Office for the Aging’s Health Insurance Information Counseling and Assistance Program (HIICAP).

Seneca View project enlarged; Family of Friends goal raised

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Sept. 28 -- The Schuyler Health Foundation Board has voted unanimously to expand the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility renovation project, and to accelerate construction. The Hospital Board fully endorsed the project revision.

The change means an increase in the funding level sought by this year's Schuyler Health Foundation Family of Friends campaign, which is helping finance the project.

The hospital will soon begin to “renovate, remodel and refresh” the facility, making program enhancements possible that have been only talked about for years. The original plan included expanding kitchen areas and creating living room areas on each unit.

With the new scope, however, the entire interior of Seneca View will get a top-to-bottom make-over to include all common areas and every resident room.

The expanded project will encompass the original plan as well as painting and re-draping 120 resident rooms, replacing flooring in the corridors and common areas, and new paint / wall-coverings.

“The Board felt that in order to do the project right, and to provide the best home for our current and future residents, we needed to commit to making Seneca View visually and aesthetically match Seneca View’s renowned compassionate care,” said Rob Swinnerton, Chair of the Schuyler Health Foundation Board.

Swinnerton added that the expanded project means donations from near and far, from current and past families of residents, from former and present staff, and from young and old are needed to finish the 2011 Family of Friends campaign strong by year-end.

“We have embraced the expanded project and are confident that the community will step up to the challenge and be part of an undertaking that will significantly impact our community,” Campaign Co-Chairs Max Neal and Ken Wilson said in a joint statement. “Please give what you can.”

Currently, the campaign is 80% of the way toward the original goal of $200,000. Due to the further enhancements to the facility, much more is needed to complete the full renovation, campaign spokesmen said.

To make a donation, contact the Schuyler Health Foundation at (607) 535-8879 ext. 226, or donate on-line at www.schuylerhospital.org

Consulting physicians move to September Hill

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Sept. 28 -- With Schuyler Hospital’s Sleep Lab relocated to a cozy suite within the Hospital, the former Sleep Lab space in the west wing of September Hill has been remodeled to accommodate consulting physicians.

Formerly seeing patients at the Montour Falls Primary Care Center, the consulting physicians began operating this week out of their new September Hill location.

Consulting physicians with office hours at Schuyler Hospital’s September Hill currently include:

Tuesday and Friday mornings -- Cardiology: Dr. Vincent LaDelia, Dr. Najeeb Rehman, and Dr. Abdul Waheed

Wednesdays -- Gastroenterology: Sarah Champion, NP; and Dr. Carl West

Thursday mornings -- Pulmonology: Dr. Zia Shah, and Dr. Khaula Rehman

In addition, still seeing patients at the Montour Falls Primary Care Center are:

Cardiology: Julie Borsen, NP; Ear, Nose & Throat: Dr. Michael DeCicco; and Podiatry: Dr. Chad Batzing.

Appointments should be made through the physicians’ main offices. Contact information is available at www.schuylerhospital.org

Relocating the consulting physicians makes space for the hospital’s newest practitioner, Dr. Ben Saks, as well as Dr. Jamie Coleman, who returned from Iraq earlier this week.

Bus Association names Wine Festival among 100 best events in North America

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Sept. 22 -- The American Bus Association (ABA) has designated t the Finger Lakes Wine Festival -- to be held on July 13-15 next year -- as one of its Top 100 Events in North America for 2012.

Inclusion in the Top 100 list, published as a supplement to the September/October issue of Destinations magazine, indicates that the Finger Lakes Wine Festival offers excellent entertainment value to both tour groups and individual travelers from around the world, says the ABA.

With the release of the its 2012 Top 100 Events in North America, the ABA celebrates 30 years of the program. What began as a way for motorcoach operations to incorporate a new product into their itineraries has grown to one of the most sought-after lists by travel professionals, motorcoach operators and the general public.

“We are absolutely ecstatic to have the Finger Lakes Wine Festival recognized by the ABA for a second-consecutive year,” said Watkins Glen International president Michael Printup. “The festival continues to be recognized as one of the premier wine festivals in the United States."

“The attractiveness of the Finger Lakes Wine Festival as a don’t-miss entertainment value is only part of why its selection this year is such a distinction for Watkins Glen International,” said Peter J. Pantuso, ABA’s president and CEO. “The real news is that the Finger Lakes Wine Festival has been recognized as a potential magnet for tourism dollars, at a time when reenergizing domestic tourism is so important to our spirit and economy. The honor gives the Finger Lakes Wine Festival an important boost in visibility among professional tour planners.”

According to studies completed by researchers at The George Washington University and Dunham and Associates, one overnight visit by a motorcoach group can leave from $5,000 to more than $11,000 in a local destination’s economy. Those dollars are spent on lodging, meals, admissions, fees, shopping, souvenirs, services and local taxes.

“Motorcoach groups spend more and stay longer,” Pantuso said. “That’s why the Finger Lakes Wine Festival is truly a local economic asset. There is no better way to jump-start tourism than to attract motorcoach groups to a great event and convince them to extend their stay.”

ABA’s 2012 Top Events Selection Committee picked the Finger Lakes Wine Festival from hundreds of event nominations submitted by ABA members. Judges considered the event’s broad appeal, its accessibility to motorcoaches, its skill at handling large groups of people, and a variety of other relevant criteria.

The Hazlitt plant in Naples. (Photo provided)

Hazlitt's Red Cat Cellars unveils sign

Special to The Odessa File

NAPLES, NY, Sept. 15 -- Hazlitt’s Red Cat Cellars officially unveiled its new lighted tower sign Wednesday in celebration of the 2011 grape harvest and crush at the newly named facility. The Widmer “W” has been carefully removed and archived.

Due to the continuing growth and brand popularity of Red Cat wine (topping 126,000 cases per year), Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards purchased the old Widmer Wine Cellars facility from Constellation Brands in Spring 2010. The new sign is just one of the many changes that have taken place on the property.

Hazlitt’s Red Cat Cellars has invested more than $1 million into the facility including a state-of-the-art crush area with Bucher Vaslin presses. Co-owners Leigh Hazlitt Triner and Doug Hazlitt have also focused on aggressive grounds maintenance and property beautification; restoring the facility to a scenic focal point in the town of Naples. Hazlitt’s Red Cat Cellars has also recently launched East Coast Crush & Co-Pack (EC3), a functioning subsidiary company within Hazlitt’s Red Cat Cellars that offers bin to bottle grape crush, winemaking, co-packaging and warehousing for the beverage industry.

The new 3+ million gallon production facility not only now makes Red Cat (the No. 1-selling domestic wine in the state of New York), but also other well-known Hazlitt brands such as Bramble Berry, White Cat and Cabin Fever.

“We are excited to officially unveil the recent renovations made at Hazlitt’s Red Cat Cellars, including our brand new tower sign,” said Doug Hazlitt. “We were careful to maintain the historic look and feel of the grounds and facility while also investing millions to invigorate and revitalize the former Widmer Wine Cellars site."

“We wanted to create a sense of pride for Naples considering Widmer has a very longstanding and rich history in the region going all the way back to 1882,”said Leigh Hazlitt Triner. “We are thrilled to be a part of the Naples community and look forward to many more years to come.”

Currently 25 people work at Hazlitt’s Red Cat Cellars with plans to hire additional employees as business continues to grow.

Photo in text: Co-owners Leigh Hazlitt Triner and Doug Hazlitt stand near their Hazlitt's Red Cat Cellars sign. (Photo provided)

Farmers are being 'green' through Product Stewardship

Special to The Odessa File

SCHUYLER COUNTY, Sept. 14 -- Farmers all around New York State are recycling their triple-rinsed plastic containers from agricultural crop protection products.

Those include products for specialty pest control, crop oils, surfactants, micro-nutrient/fertilizer, and/or adjuvant products.

The Schuyler County Soil and Water Conservation District will be holding a collection on Thursday Oct. 13 at the 4H Youth Fair complex on Meads Hill road in the Town of Dix. Pre-registration is due by Oct. 7 with the Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), which is located in the Shared Services building on Decatur Street in Watkins Glen and can be reached at (607) 535-6878.

At the time of pre-registration, the SWCD will provide large bags that hold fifty to sixty 2.5-gallon containers along with an ID Tag for each bag.

This program is coordinated as part of the SWCD's Agricultural Environmental Management Program, with partners Cornell Cooperative Extension, the Farm Bureau, and the Agricultural and Farmland Protection Board. The collection is made possible in conjunction with USAg Recycling, Inc., and the Ag Container Recycling Council (ACRC).

USAg Recycling Inc. will be chipping and removing this material throughout New York State. The service is free to farmers and, says SWCD, "provides an environmentally friendly alternative to burning or throwing away agricultural containers."

Last year USAg Recycling Inc. collected 87,000 pounds of plastic in New York State. The firm is a contractor for the industry and funded by the Ag Container Recycling Council (ACRC), which is responsible for the collection of nearly 8 million pounds of plastic annually throughout the United States. The chipped plastic is used to make corrugated plastic field drainage pipe and other ACRC approved products.

That, says SWCD, "is farmers helping to keep plastic out of the landfills."

Containers accepted are HDPE #2 plastic containers only, ranging from less than 1 gallon through 55-gallon barrels. Large 250-gallon shuttle totes must be cut into 2’ x 2’ wide pieces and free of any hardware. To be accepted, plastic containers must be empty, triple rinsed, uncapped, and dry. Contact the SWCD to pre-register and receive bags.

Child Care Council names Center Director

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Sept. 8 -- The Schuyler County Child Care Coordinating Council has appointed Audrey Edmister as the Director of the child care center set to open in January 2012 in the former Rural-Urban Center, 208 Broadway in Montour Falls.

The Child Care Center will be a not-for-profit organizaton and governed by the SCCCCC.

Edmister graduated from Watkins Glen High School and holds a B.A. in Elementary Education from SUNY Geneseo and an M.A. in Reading from Grand Canyon University, where she is currently working on a second M.A. in Special Education.

Edmister has been in the educational field for eight years and has had a variety of experiences working with children. She has worked as a teacher and lead teacher with older toddlers and preschool-age children at the Corning Children’s Center, taught Pre-Kindergarten and Academic Intervention Services at St. Mary Our Mother School in Horseheads, and currently operates her own family child care business (Kinder Country Daycare).

Child Care Council Executive Director Debbie MacDonald said, “We are confident that she will build upon SCCCCC’s vision to provide affordable, dependable, quality child care that meets the identified community needs for child care, enabling parents to be and remain employed, furthering the goal of self-sufficiency and job retention.”

Edmister will be available on Fridays -- Sept. 9, Oct. 14, Nov. 11 and Dec. 9 -- from 6-8 p.m. at the former Rural-Urban Center's scheduled monthly open houses.

For more information about the Child Care Center or to reserve an opening, contact Edmister at 607-535-7964.

Dr. Campbell joins Cayuga Medical Center

Special to The Odessa File

ITHACA, Sept. 5 -- Cayuga Medical Center has announced that Julie Campbell, MD, has joined Cayuga Hematology Oncology Associates. Dr. Campbell joins the practice of Timothy Bael, MD and Charles Garbo, MD.

Dr. Campbell earned her bachelor’s degree summa cum laude from Binghamton University. She went on to earn her Medical Doctorate from SUNY Health Science Center at Brooklyn, New York before completing her internship and residency at Columbia University. In 2008 she began an Oncology and Hematology fellowship at Columbia University and finished in June of this year.

Dr. Campbell is board certified by The American Board of Internal Medicine. She has earned several awards, including the 2010 Physician of the Year and Fellow of the Year from Columbia University, the Hecht Early Investigator Award from the Society of Integrative Oncology, and this year, the Young Investigator Award from the American Society of Clinical Oncology.

Dr. Campbell is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, the American Society of Hematology, and the American Association for Cancer Research. She has a variety of teaching experiences and has been published twice. She can be reached by phoning Cayuga Hematology Oncology Associates at (607) 272-5414.

Photo in text: Dr. Julie Campbell (Photo provided)

Auxiliary hosting 2nd popcorn fundraiser

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Sept. 4 -- As a unique and tasty way to raise funds for Schuyler Hospital, the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary is -- for the second time -- hosting J’s Gourmet Popcorn for a sale on Monday, Sept. 26.

The sale of various flavors of popcorn is scheduled for 10 a.m.-3 p.m. near the Gift Shop on the hospital's lower level.

The Fingerlakes HealthCare Credit Union is helping sponsor the fundraiser, and offering special discounts for credit union members.

A portion of proceeds from the sale will benefit the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary.

For more information or to make a donation, contact the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary at info@schuylerhospital.org, or go to www.schuylerhospital.org

Schuyler Health Foundation receives grant

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Sept. 3 -- Schuyler Hospital’s Health Foundation was recently awarded a grant from the Georgie and Mark Taylor Fund administered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.

This grant will be used to make capital improvements to the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility, and will be listed among donations for the 2011 Family of Friends Campaign.

“The Taylors are terrific friends and generous supporters of Schuyler Hospital,” said Bill Little, Executive Director for the Schuyler Health Foundation. “We’re delighted to receive their gift. It’s a great example of the Taylors’ charitable giving to Schuyler County.”

According to hospital officials, donations to the 2011 Family of Friends campaign will help "renovate, remodel and refresh Seneca View – creating new, vibrant living spaces and providing a more comfortable and home-like setting for our residents."

To make a donation, contact the Schuyler Health Foundation at (607) 535-8879 ext. 226, or give on-line at www.schuylerhospital.org.

Eggs at Eight topic: Increasing Your Sales

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Sept. 1 -- The Business and Education Committee of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce will host its next small-business roundtable discussion, Eggs at Eight, at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 13 at Classic Chef’s, located between Watkins Glen and Montour Falls.

The roundtable topic will be “Increasing Your Sales.” The guest speaker, Mike Evranian, Manager of Group Sales with Watkins Glen International, will share his thoughts on tried-and-true selling methods aimed at increasing a business’s bottom line.

“Sales -- no matter the product -- are the life blood of any organization,” Evranian said. “At the Glen, without yearly attendance, we are not in business.”

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

For more information or to reserve a seat, contact the Chamber at 607-535-4300 or email Katie Strawser at katie@watkinsglenchamber.com.

Welliver, Glenora Wine Cellars renew sponsorship of U.S. Vintage Grand Prix

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Aug. 30 -- Welliver and Glenora Wine Cellars have renewed their partnership with Watkins Glen International and will continue as the sponsors for the Sept. 9-11 season-ending Glenora Wine Cellars U.S. Vintage Grand Prix presented by Welliver.

As such, Glenora Riesling wine will be poured in Gatorade Victory Lane throughout all of the victory celebrations during the race weekend.

In addition to announcing the continued partnership, WGI announced Bob Sharp as the honored guest and Grand Marshal for the weekend.

“Welliver and Glenora are two of the most recognized and respected businesses, not just in Schuyler County, but the entire region,” said Michael Printup, president of Watkins Glen International. “We continue to host one of the largest vintage racing weekends in the country and attract dedicated race fans from both near and far. The drawing power of this event makes WGI the perfect platform for Welliver and Glenora to connect with not only our fans, but also the many great competitors that return every year.”

Based in Montour Falls, Welliver was founded in Ridgebury, PA in 1898 and is currently led by the fourth and fifth generations of the Welliver family. Welliver provides a cutting-edge and cost-effective approach to building projects for all major industry segments, primarily for colleges and universities, science and technology, healthcare, manufacturing, government and industry. The company delivers an array of building construction and facility-related services to prominent clients throughout the eastern United States and has become one of the largest commercial builders located in central New York State.

“It is with great pride that my company is part of this exceptional race event again this year. I look forward to driving the track with my co-driver Elliot Forbes-Robinson once again, following the great time we had last year,” said Scott Welliver, chairman and CEO of Welliver. “I am excited that Welliver and Glenora have the opportunity to be involved in our community by honoring its race history.”

Welliver’s interest in Watkins Glen International extends beyond that of a sponsor as he is a race car driver himself and co-drove with last season’s Grand Marshal, Elliot Forbes-Robinson.

Before establishing himself as a Datsun dealer in Wilton, Conn., where he currently resides, Grand Marshal Bob Sharp collected over 20 National titles in SCCA competition. He has fielded cars for a wide range of drivers including Paul Newman, Brad Frisselle and Forbes-Robinson.

Glenora Wine Cellars, the first winery to open on Seneca Lake -- in 1977 -- is located in nearby Dundee, in Yates County. It received instant acclaim and continues to produce critically acclaimed wine in the Finger Lakes region. Owned by Gene Pierce and Welliver, Glenora has expanded to include a 30-room Inn and Veraisons Restaurant. Glenora Wine Cellars has been a partner of the Grand Prix Festival in downtown Watkins Glen for several years.

“We are, once again, very excited to partner up with Welliver and Watkins Glen International, as Glenora Wine Cellars has had a long history of partnerships with all types of racing from cars and motorboats to sailboats,” said Glenora president and owner Gene Pierce. “It is an honor to have our Riesling wine be a part of the Gatorade Victory Lane celebrations.”

Walmart donates $4,000 to hospital

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Aug. 26 -- Following the Schuyler Hospital Health Foundation’s Celebrity Bag-a-Thon on August 11th, the Watkins Glen Walmart donated $4,000 to the Health Foundation.

The gift will be used to make capital improvements to the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility, and will be listed among donations for the 2011 Family of Friends campaign.

“We appreciate Walmart’s continued financial support of the hospital,” said Andy Manzer, President/CEO for Schuyler Hospital. “This fun event highlights the commitment to the community that both Walmart and Schuyler Hospital share.”

Manzer was one of 25 “celebrities” from Schuyler Hospital and the community who volunteered to assist Walmart’s many shoppers on the eve of the NASCAR weekend at Watkins Glen International.

“This is our second year volunteering in recognition of Walmart’s generosity,” Manzer added. “We enjoy working with the Walmart associates and interacting with our community members in a different environment.”

Gifts to the Schuyler Health Foundation help Schuyler Hospital fulfill its mission of serving the medical needs of the community. Donations to the 2011 campaign will “renovate, remodel and refresh” Seneca View -- creating new, vibrant living spaces and providing a more comfortable and home-like setting for Seneca View residents.

For more information, or to make a donation, contact the Schuyler Health Foundation at (607) 535-8879 ext. 226, or go to www.schuylerhospital.org

Photo in text: Watkins Glen Walmart Manager Terra Ellis (front, 3rd from left) presents a check for $4,000 to Andy Manzer, Schuyler Hospital President/CEO, surrounded by “celebrity” baggers and store associates. (Photo provided)

Cargill donates $30K to Catholic Charities

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Aug. 25 -- As part of its longstanding commitment to support the communities in which it does business, Cargill has donated $30,000 to Catholic Charities of Schuyler County to develop and operate the Schuyler County Food and Nutrition Project.

Connecting with the Catholic Charities mission to help build communities that care for all people by reducing poverty and promoting healthy individual and family life, the Schuyler County Food and Nutrition Project will provide food and assistance to local citizens in need. Cargill employees will volunteer to help develop and operate the program.

“Cargill has been instrumental in meeting the food and nutrition needs in our community,” said Paul Marx, director of Catholic Charities of Schuyler County. “The company’s ongoing financial and volunteer support of the Schuyler Food Pantries is greatly appreciated, as it affects seven pantries located in rural areas throughout the county.”

“Nobody should struggle with hunger from lack of food, so this is an issue that we are working to eliminate,” said Don Chutas, plant manager at the Cargill salt facility in Watkins Glen. “As a food company, we have a unique opportunity to improve the communities where we live by helping those who are most in need during difficult times.”

About Cargill: It is an international producer and marketer of food, agricultural, financial and industrial products and services. Founded in 1865, the privately held company employs 131,000 people in 66 countries.

About Catholic Charities of Chemung/Schuyler: It provides a number of needed programs and services in the community with a priority toward the poor. It works to ensure that people have food, clothing, shelter, medical services, and the ability to achieve a decent standard of living.

Photo in text: Catholic Charities director Paul Marx, center, receives the $30,000 donation from Watkins Glen Cargill salt facility employees Don Chutas and Jerry Dunlavey. (Photo provided)

Seneca View adds Telehealth Psychological Services

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Aug. 22 -- Schuyler Hospital's Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility has added psychological and psychiatric support services through “telehealth.”

As needed, a psychiatrist and/or psychologist can hold diagnostic and ongoing counseling sessions remotely through a closed Internet connection.

The system is mounted on a mobile unit so that residents can interact with the licensed professional in the comfort and familiarity of their own room -- or any other location within the facility that they prefer.

According to a hospital press release, the providers involved in the program "are uniquely qualified to provide consultation and support to residents and families of skilled nursing facilities and are specifically trained to identify and treat major symptoms of placement adjustment difficulties, depression, anxiety, dementia and behavioral issues."

The providers "will also be involved in the care planning process, general staff education, and working with the Care Team to create plans to support the resident -- which includes both medication management and behavioral approaches."

During the transition to telehealth, Seneca View’s current psychologist, Dr. Marilyn Majors, PsyD., will be working toward closure with the residents she currently follows.

The Care Team is currently explaining the concept of remote sessions to the residents, and has had a “live” meet-and-greet with the physicians and counselors who are assigned to the facility. The service will also provide the additional amenity of Skype visitation during equipment down-time, so residents can potentially "visit" with family members who live at a distance.

The connection, hospital officials say, "is truly HIPAA-compliant and confidential."

This new service allows Seneca View to offer residents both diagnostic and medication management through a Licensed Psychiatrist, and if appropriate they can then be followed by a Licensed Psychologist with talk therapies pertaining to behavioral-emotional counseling, family relationships, personal struggles and loss.

RG Psychological Associates and Forefront Telecare, Inc. work in concert to make the service seamless and effective, officials said, and are working successfully in skilled nursing facilities throughout New York State.

For more information, contact the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility at (607) 535-8611, email info@schuylerhospital.org, or go to www.schuylerhospital.org.

State officials tour projects in Chemung, Schuyler Counties

Special to The Odessa File

HORSEHEADS, Aug. 19 -- The State Soil and Water Conservation Committee recently toured conservation projects implemented by the Chemung and Schuyler County Soil and Water Conservation Districts to protect, manage and improve natural resources.

Each Soil and Water District leverages its County appropriation to generate millions of dollars in federal and state funding to help thousands of area farmers, landowners, communities and businesses protect water quality and other natural resources that the area's agricultural and tourism industries also depend on.

Over the years, the neighboring Districts have cooperated on numerous projects to help protect drinking water, prevent soil erosion, support farm viability, improve aging infrastructure, advance stormwater management, restore streams, and reduce flooding. Each District also has individual programs to help meet the local needs of residents, municipalities and industry in its county.

“The Soil and Water Districts in Chemung and Schuyler Counties share personnel, equipment, and facilities to ensure the most cost-effective implementation of local, state and federal dollars for conservation projects that are doing as much for the local economy as for the environment,” said Mark Watts, District Manager of the Chemung Soil and Water District. Over 90 percent of the dollars they bring in for conservation projects help support local jobs and businesses that provide services, supplies and materials to complete the projects.

The State Committee visited a stream stabilization and flood protection project in Horseheads that the Chemung Soil and Water District coordinated with assistance from the County and from the Town and Village of Horseheads.

“Thanks to this project funded in large part with grant funds obtained by Mark Watts, the 3,000-foot-long dike constructed in the 1940s to protect the railroad tracks and Holding Point, now an industrial park, is better protected from streambank erosion,” said Chemung County Legislator Dick Gunderman.

Several stormwater management systems on expanded or new business sites were visited that were installed with the assistance of the Chemung County Stormwater Coalition and the Rural Stormwater Coalition. The Chemung County Federation of Sportsmen’s log cabin built by the Chemung District on the County Fairgrounds was the site for a working lunch, which also featured a hands-on river model demonstrating how stormwater can affect streams and the property surrounding them.

Vineyards in Schuyler and Seneca Counties were visited to see agrichemical mixing facilities that were cost-shared with State funds obtained by the Schuyler County Soil and Water District. Management practices used by grape growers to reduce erosion and pesticide runoff were also reviewed with State officials.

“Without State Environmental Protection Funds provided through the State Soil and Water Conservation Committee, we could not have completed the much-needed conservation work, and our farms would not meet State regulations,” said Jerry Verrigni, Schuyler County Soil and Water District Manager. “In addition to protecting the water quality of Seneca Lake, these projects help keep our farms thriving, which is also vital to our local economy.”

As an agency of the state, the State Committee oversees policy and programs for New York’s 58 County Soil and Water Conservation Districts in their work to protect natural resources. To learn more about the State Committee and its members, visit www.nys-soilandwater.org.

For more information about conservation programs and services available from your County Soil and Water District visit: www.chemungcountyswcd.com or www.schuyercounty.us/swcd.

Photos in text:

Top: New York State Soil and Water Conservation Committee members tour the Old Ithaca Road dike in Horseheads, which is being cleared of brush as part of a grant project coordinated by the Chemung County Soil and Water Conservation District.

Bottom: New York State Soil and Water Conservation Committee officials hear about an agrichemical mixing facility -- funded in part with State Environmental Protection funds -- from John Leidenfrost, owner of Leidenfrost Vineyards in Hector.

Photos enlarged and colorized by artist Derek Nelson (right).

Flats apartments near full occupancy

MONTOUR FALLS, Aug. 13 -- Four of the eight apartments in The Flats on Broadway -- the former Rural-Urban Center on Broadway in Montour Falls -- have been leased and occupied.

The structure, being renovated by developer Bruce Nelson, has two more apartments pre-leased for a Sept. 1 occupancy -- leaving just two apartments available. Leases are for a minimum of one year.

Occupancy was discussed by Nelson and his associates during an open house at the facility Friday evening. Also discussed were images of young people that adorn the corridor walls -- pictures of second-graders from 60 years ago, when they were students in a grammar school in the same building.

The images were created by Derek Nelson -- the developer's son -- by enlarging and colorizing a class photo borrowed from the Schuyler County Historical Society. The artwork will remain as a permanent decor.

The facility will also house a child care center downstairs, in a former auditorium. It will be run under the auspices of the Schuyler County Child Care Coordinating Council. The Council has signed a long-term lease.

Eight garages are located in a structure to the rear of the main building, and a second outbuilding -- used over the years for storage and other functions -- will be marketed for lease, possibly to a service business or as storage.

Visitors to the open house toured the facility -- the occupied apartments were off-limits -- and were treated to pizza and vegetable snacks.

Photo in text: Area residents tour one of the apartments soon to be occupied in the former Rural-Urban Center in Montour Falls. Four other apartments are currently occupied.

The Flats on Broadway's garages, at the rear of the main building.

Humane Society drive passes halfway mark

WATKINS GLEN, Aug. 12 -- The capital campaign by the Humane Society of Schuyler County to purchase and renovate the former Kurtz Enterprizes building on Marina Drive in Montour Falls is more than halfway to its goal of $350,000, Society President Georgie Taylor said Thursday.

Taylor, speaking at the weekly luncheon meeting of the Watkins-Montour Rotary Club, said the campaign is at about $200,000, a total of $76,000 of which came from a grant. The rest came from donations and special benefits held on the Society's behalf.

She said plans are also underway to sell the current animal clinic along County Route 10 in the Town of Catharine and the animal shelter on VanZandt Hollow Road -- a 1950s-era structure that the Society took over from the county in 2009.

Sale of those properties has "tricky timing," she said, since "we don't want to sell them and then not have a roof over our heads."

The renovated Kurtz building would house the functions of both facilities in a centralized location, with room to shelter 34 cats and 24 dogs. Target date for completion of the project, Taylor said, is the end of the year.

Photo in text: Georgie Taylor addresses Rotarians.

Mexican restaurant set to open in Glen

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Aug. 6 -- Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant is poised to open in the old Bianco's Daughters (and, later, BV's) restaurant at 104 E. Fourth St. in Watkins Glen.

It is scheduled to open Thursday, Aug. 11.

“Garcia's Mexican Restaurant is proud to be one of the newest members of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce and very pleased to announce that we are opening our fifth location in New York, here in beautiful and historic Watkins Glen,” said owner Ramon Garcia.

Rebekah LaMoreaux, Chamber president and CEO, said, “It’s exciting to welcome a new element of cuisine into our county. In addition to providing another dining option to residents and tourists, this new venture is a great testament to the financial growth that Schuyler County is currently experiencing.”

The restaurant's hours will be as follows:

--Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m.- 9 p.m.

--Friday from 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

--Saturday from 12 noon -10 p.m.

--Sunday from 12 noon - 9 p.m.

The official Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening ceremony will take place at 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 1. It will feature local dignitaries and remarks by LaMoreaux, Schuyler County Administrator Tim O’Hearn, and Ramon Garcia. Meanwhile, Garcia’s president, Alfredo Garcia, and its manager/vice president, Fransisco Gomez, will be on hand for comments.

Photo in text: Garcia's Mexican Restaurant, set to open on Fourth Street in Watkins Glen. (Photo provided)

Local celebs to bag groceries, raise funds

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Aug. 5 -- The Schuyler Health Foundation is holding its annual Celebrity Bag-A-Thon at the Watkins Glen WalMart on Thursday, Aug. 11 from noon to 4 p.m.

Prominent figures in the Schuyler County community – including politicians and business people – will be bagging groceries all afternoon to benefit Schuyler Hospital. Plus, Schuyler Hospital nurses will be offering free blood pressure checks.

Baggers will include Jim Howell, Linda Confer, Rob and Mark Swinnerton, Joan Argetsinger, Lori Welliver, Mary Bacalles, Kathy Fragola, and hospital CEO/President Andy Manzer.

Walmart will make a donation following the Bag-A-Thon to the hospital’s 2011 Family of Friends Campaign, whose goal this year is to renovate the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility.

Applications available for scholarship

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Aug. 2 -- Southern Finger Lakes Women, a chapter of New York State Women, Inc., has application forms available for its 2011 Women’s Scholarship Program.

The program provides financial assistance to a woman furthering her education or seeking a professional certificate or license. To be eligible for a scholarship, an applicant must:

--Be a female and at least 25 years of age by September 1, 2011.
--Demonstrate financial need.
--Be currently enrolled or accepted into a higher education institution leading to a degree OR enrolled in a program working toward a professional certificate or license during the 2011-12 school year.
--Demonstrate clear career plans.

Preference will be given to applicants who are residents of Schuyler County and/or are employed by a business or agency in Schuyler County.

Completed applications must be postmarked by Sept. 2. Failure to submit a complete application may result in elimination from consideration. For further information, or to obtain a copy of the application, contact Patti Butler at (607) 742-5942. The scholarship winner will receive her award at the Oct. 17 meeting of the Southern Finger Lakes Women at Carol Bower’s Catering, Cass Road, Montour Falls.

New York State Women, Inc. provides members with professional development, networking, and career advancement resources. Its mission is to achieve equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education and information.

The Southern Finger Lakes Women chapter meets on the third Monday of each month. For more information about the group, contact Gloria Hutchings at (607) 594-2489 or JoAnne Krolak at (607) 732-1171.

Hospital CEO urges campaign support

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, July 31 -- What brought Andy Manzer back to the Finger Lakes after stints in healthcare administration in Illinois and Ohio? Family, friends, and a hospital with a long history and a future full of possibilities.

Manzer, the new Schuyler Hospital CEO/President, is focused on the future of Schuyler Hospital and the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility.

“Donated dollars," he said, "are crucial to bringing Seneca View – already renowned for high quality and compassionate care – into the 21st century in comfort and design. To that purpose, Schuyler Hospital’s leadership is focused on making this fundraising campaign beat its goals for our current and future residents.”

Each year the Schuyler Health Foundation, the hospital’s charitable arm, reaches out to the community through its Family of Friends Campaign. This year the Foundation is raising funds to “renovate, remodel and refresh” Seneca View – the hospital’s 120-bed long-term care and skilled nursing facility. According to Manzer, Seneca View is integral to the hospital’s ongoing success.

Campaign donations are currently ahead of what they were at this time last year. While Manzer is pleased with the campaign’s progress to date, there is still a long way to go to enhance Seneca View.

“Schuyler Hospital has been here for nearly 100 years," he said. "We plan to be here for at least another century. And though services may change to meet changing community needs and assure continued financial viability, we are a part of this community, and cannot do what we do without community support.”

To make a donation to the Schuyler Health Foundation, call (607) 535-8879 ext. 226, or go to www.schuylerhospital.org.

Photo in text: Hospital President/CEO Andy Manzer.

Hospital Primary Care to host Senior Nights

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, July 31 -- Schuyler Hospital, in an ongoing partnership with the Schuyler County Office for the Aging, is beginning a new program – monthly senior nights at the Montour Falls Primary Care Center.

The first Senior Night will be Tuesday, Aug. 23 from 5-7 p.m. at the Primary Care Center, 230 Steuben St., Montour Falls.

The evening will feature a presentation on diabetes, and will also provide free screenings for diabetes, pulmonary health, and osteoporosis. There will also be refreshments, door prizes, and valet parking.

The monthly events, hospital officials point out, are also ideal for making appointments with a primary care physician for an “annual wellness visit.” Annual, no-cost wellness visits are a new benefit offered once a year for those who have been on Medicare for longer than 12 months. Appointments can be made by contacting the Primary Care Center at 535-7154.

Anyone age 50 and over is invited to the Senior Nights, and at no charge. But officials say "Please, no children." Transportation is available for the event through Office for the Aging on a limited basis. Contact Office for the Aging at 535-7108 to make arrangements.

The program is offered through the Schuyler County Office for the Aging’s Health Insurance Information Counseling and Assistance Program (HIICAP).

For more information, visit www.schuylerhospital.org

Hospital Auxiliary awards scholarships

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, July 26 -- The Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary has awarded $1,000 scholarships to each of two high school students who are planning to enter the healthcare field, and one current hospital employee enhancing her education.

Alexandra Young, daughter of Kendra Young of Watkins Glen, is a 2011 graduate of Watkins Glen High School. She has been active in Cheerleading and Soccer at school, as well as Student Council and Interact Club. She also served as Senior Editor-in-Chief for the Yearbook. Young plans to attend Corning Community College and then Binghamton University to study Biology and Pre-Medicine. Her goal is eventually to become an Orthopedic Surgeon.

Katlynne Ray, daughter of Timothy and Michel Ray of Millport, is a 2011 graduate of Odessa-Montour High School. Ray’s school involvement included Soccer, Basketball and Softball, as well as Vice-President of Interact Club, Vice-President of Student Council, Vice-President of her class, Vice-President of the National Honor Society, and participation in SADD. Ray plans to attend Nazareth College to study Physical Therapy.

Brittany Oliver, of Watkins Glen, has worked at Schuyler Hospital for nearly four years, starting as Assistant Director of Activities, then switching to the Medical Records Department. In medical records, Oliver has found a passion for the investigative work involved in medical coding, and looks forward to receiving training in Professional Medical Coding. Oliver is currently attending Corning Community College.

Scholarships are based on academic achievement, volunteerism, and personal essays. Previous recipients have been involved in such diverse fields as medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, optometry, speech therapy, and pharmacy

The Auxiliary awarded its first scholarship of $250 in1990. Over the following 20 years it has grown to three $1,000 scholarships. Funds for the awards are raised through the auxiliary’s hospital gift shop and other volunteer activities.

For more information about the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary, go to www.schuylerhospital.org

Photo in text: From left, Alexandra Young, Brittany Oliver and Katlynne Ray. (Photo provided)

Schuyler Hospital is ending inpatient delivery of babies

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, July 23 -- After nearly a year of evaluation and research -- in response to what Hospital President/CEO Andy Manzer says is "a sharp decrease" in births locally -- Schuyler Hospital has decided to no longer provide inpatient deliveries of babies.

The hospital will, however, continue to "provide a wide variety of gynecological services in the community," a press release said.

Manzer said no jobs will be lost in the transition -- that hospital obstetrical nurses will be offered positions within other departments.

“As we have historically done, we are adjusting our services to meet the constantly changing needs of our community,” Manzer said. “I can assure you that Schuyler Hospital plans to be a viable part of this community for many years to come. We are aligning ourselves to be able to grow and expand in other areas for the future.”

The hospital’s Women’s and Children’s Health Services Team, the hospital said in a press release, "will continue to provide pre- and post-natal obstetrical care, and Inpatient and Outpatient pediatric and gynecological services for women of all ages at Schuyler Hospital, September Hill Women’s Center, Primary Care Centers in Montour Falls and Ovid, and affiliated physician offices. Also, all ancillary services related to maternity, such as Lab testing and Ultrasound, will still be available at the Hospital."

Expectant mothers who are patients of Dr. Zarmina Aman and Dr. William Saks, the release added, can still expect their babies to "be delivered by Dr. Aman at a partner healthcare facility in the area as of Nov. 1. Emergency deliveries will still be handled by the Hospital’s Emergency Department."

That partner healthcare facility will be decided "in the next 30 days or so," said a spokesperson for the hospital.

“Schuyler Hospital leadership has been keeping a close eye on the maternity/labor and delivery inpatient department for the last several years,” said Manzer. “Although we are proud that several generations have been born here, the demographics of our community have changed such that we have seen a sharp decrease in babies born here over the past several years. Schuyler County’s population is aging, and those of child-bearing age are decreasing in numbers here.

Births at the hospital have declined from five to 10 per year in recent years, said a hospital spokesperson, noting that a total of 187 births occurred there in 2010

Schuyler Hospital is currently the last remaining Critical Access Hospital (CAH) in New York State still providing inpatient deliveries of babies. CAH’s are located in rural areas and certified as necessary providers of health care services to residents in the area.

For more information, call (607) 535-7121 or visit www.schuylerhospital.org.

Tour de Cure set for Schuyler on Aug. 20

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, July 22 -- The American Diabetes Association is urging riders to take part in the annual Tour de Cure®, a cycling event on Saturday, Aug. 20 at the Schuyler County Human Services Complex in Montour Falls. The nationwide event -- first held in Schuyler County last year -- helps raise funds to battle diabetes.

Cyclists from around the region will gather at one of four routes. The Tour de Cure is designed for anyone from the occasional to the experienced cyclist, with routes from 10-mile family rides to 100-mile century rides. The routes will feature rest stops with food to fuel the journey, and volunteers to cheer riders on.

“Many people will participate in the Tour de Cure for the stimulating competition, camaraderie and physical cycling challenge," said Jessica Bottoms of the American Diabetes Association's Syracuse office. "But the real reward comes in knowing that every mile they ride and every dollar they raise brings us that much closer to stopping this disease that affects over 44,724 people. With diabetes growing at near-epidemic proportions, the need for funds has never been so great.”

The Tour de Cure raises funds through registration fees and pledges collected by the cyclists. To register, cyclists or volunteers can call the American Diabetes Association tollfree at 1-888-DIABETES or visit http://main.diabetes.org/FingerLakesTourdeCure.

The event is sponsored locally by:

Presenting Food Sponsor: TOPS Market
Presenting Media: WVIN 98.3 FM, WLVY 94.3 FM, WOKN 99.5 FM, WLEA 1480 AM, WCKR 92.1 FM, Addison Post
Red Rider Sponsor: Lockheed Martin
Silver Sponsor: Cayuga Medical Center and Walgreens
Start/Finish Sponsor: Schuyler Hospital
Supporting Sponsor: Novo Nordisk
Mile Marker: St. Joseph’s Hospital, Arnot Ogden Medical Center and Ira Davenport Memorial Hospital

Research Center raffle prize: Bullitt Mustang

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, July 20 -- A car that will look mighty familiar to car buffs, movie-goers and Steve McQueen fans is the 2011 raffle car for the International Motor Racing Research Center.

It’s a 1967 Mustang, one-of-a-kind “resto-mod” built as a tribute to the famous Ford Highland Green Mustang driven by Steve McQueen in the 1968 blockbuster movie “Bullitt.”

The car is fitted with contemporary features such as four-wheel disc brakes, five-speed transmission, fully independent suspension and many other modern components.

The Bullitt Mustang is valued at $72,500.

“We are really excited about this year’s raffle car as it gives people a once-in-a lifetime chance to win an incredible automobile while supporting the Center at the same time,” Research Center President J.C. Argetsinger said.

“We are certain that tickets for this year’s raffle will sell out quickly, and I encourage our supporters to purchase their tickets early,” Director of Marketing and Development Jon McKnight said.

A total of 2,500 tickets will be sold. The drawing for the winning ticket will be Dec. 3 at noon at the Center. The prices are $60 each or two for $100.

“I expect that tickets will be gone by Vintage Grand Prix weekend in September,” McKnight said.

A You Tube video of the Mustang on the track at Watkins Glen International and taking the turns of the original 1948 circuit can be seen at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SR-rTyQfwWA.

The winner of the car does not need to be present to win. McKnight does remind ticket purchasers that the winner is responsible for all taxes and fees associated with winning the car as well as transportation from Watkins Glen.

Tickets may be purchased at the Racing Research Center or on-line at www.racingarchives.org.

Some of features of the Bullitt Mustang:

~ Engine and transmission: Totally rebuilt Ford 390 engine, with a Holley four-barrel carburetor, Edelbrock aluminum intake manifold and cylinder heads, high-performance Crane Cam with roller rockers and lifters, custom tubular exhaust headers, Ford XS Torque Starter motor, aluminum valve covers, Flowmaster mufflers and a custom aluminum radiator with dual Flex-a-lite thermostatically controlled fans. Power is transmitted via a Tremec TR-3550 five-speed transmission with Pro-5.0 shifter, Centerforce Dual Friction clutch and lightened flywheel, 9-inch Ford rear end with positraction differential.

~ Chassis and suspension: Heidt Super Ride independent front and rear suspension with QA-1 variable rate coil springs and fully adjustable coil over shocks, Lakewood Traction Action lift bars, Heidt power assisted rack and pinion steering, Heidt front cross member stiffener and tubular upper and lower front control arms, 15-inch American Racing Torque Thrust D alloy wheels with Falken ZE512 radial tires.

~ Miscellaneous: The car is finished in Ford’s Highland Green paint with a black interior that replicates the original car. All new carpets have been installed, and the front and rear seats have been reupholstered and re-bolstered. The Heidt independent rear suspension features in-board mounted rear disc brakes. A tilt steering column with a custom steering wheel and specially designed instruments with the Bullitt logo installed in the original dash cluster complete the interior appointments. The body has been tastefully de-chromed, and “Bullitt” replaces the original “Mustang” identification on the rear deck lid.

Photo in text: The Bullitt Mustang in front of the Research Center. (Photo provided)

Hospital Auxiliary sets Popcorn Fundraiser

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, July 16 -- As a unique and tasty way to raise funds for Schuyler Hospital, the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary is hosting J’s Gourmet Popcorn for a sale on Monday, July 25.

The sale of various flavors of popcorn is scheduled for 10 a.m.-3 p.m. in the glass hallway on the hospital's lower level, near the cafeteria.

The Fingerlakes HealthCare Credit Union is helping sponsor the fundraiser, and offering special discounts for credit union members.

A portion of proceeds from the sale will benefit the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary.

For more information or to make a donation, contact the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary at info@schuylerhospital.org, or go to www.schuylerhospital.org

Hospital earns tobacco-control award

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, June 16 -- The Schuyler County Relay For Life, the American Cancer Society, Eastern Division, and the Tobacco Cessation Center at Arnot Health have presented the Partner of Excellence Award in Tobacco Control to Schuyler Hospital.

Cigarette smoking is the primary known preventable cause of premature death in the U.S., with nearly one of every five deaths smoking-related. This surpasses the combined death toll due to alcohol, car accidents, suicides, homicides, HIV disease, and illicit drug use, according to health officials.

Cardiovascular disease, respiratory diseases and one-third of all cancers are attributable to tobacco smoke, officials say.

In Schuyler County, hospital officials note, lung and bronchus cancer accounts for 15.2% of all cancer cases and 29.7% of all cancer deaths. This, they say, highlights the crucial need for prevention and cessation of tobacco use.

The award is a reflection of the hospital's compliance with Public Health Guidelines for addressing tobacco use and dependence, and its attempts to improve the delivery of evidenced-based interventions to tobacco-using patients.

According to hospital officials, the clinical staff at the hospital has worked over the past several years to put policies in place to insure that:

-- 80% of inpatients are asked about tobacco use, advised to quit and assisted in their attempts by the clinical staff

-- 80% of inpatients who ask to speak to a cessation counselor are counseled

-- 80% of cessation consults ordered by a patient’s doctor are completed

-- Inpatients who consent are automatically referred to the New York State Quitline through faxed referral at discharge

-- A written policy to address tobacco dependence with patients is in place

-- The hospital grounds are tobacco-free.

These efforts, officials said, have been stewarded by Karen Hetrick, Director of Cardiopulmonary Services.

Partnering in this initiative has been the Tobacco Cessation Center at Arnot Health, whose Jennifer Rodriguez has worked with the hospital staff to provide training and resources and measure compliance with the award criteria.

“By achieving the Partner of Excellence Award, Schuyler Hospital has demonstrated its commitment to the health of this community,” said Jan Chytilo, director of strategic health initiatives for the American Cancer Society of NY and NJ. “They are implementing ongoing interventions that will begin to reduce the devastating impact of tobacco use.”

Chamber announces scholarship winners

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, July 13 -- The Business and Education Committee of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce announced Tuesday at its monthly Eggs @ Eight Roundtable session that two local graduating seniors were awarded scholarships in the amount of $500 each.

The 2010 Essay Scholarship Award was offered to only seniors who were further advancing their education. Students were asked to write an essay identifying the positive and negative aspects of living, playing, and working in Schuyler County, and to provide solutions for the negative aspects.

Ryan VanAlstine was awarded the scholarship from Watkins Glen Central School District. VanAlstine plans to attend Corning Community College to study Criminal Justice. Katlynne Ray was awarded the scholarship from Odessa-Montour Central School District and plans to attend Nazareth College, where she will major in Physical Therapy.

For more information about scholarship opportunities or to find out more about the Business and Education Committee, contact Rebekah LaMoreaux at the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce at 607-535-4300 or Rebekah@watkinsglenchamber.com

Chamber sets fund-raiser for July 20

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, June 29 -- The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual summer fund-raiser, “Racing Rendezvous,” on July 20 at Watkins Glen International.

The WGI racing facility is located at 2290 County Route16, above Watkins Glen. The site used will be the lawn next to the new Crown Royal Club.

The event is one of the Chamber’s two major annual fund-raising efforts. Proceeds will support the Chamber’s strategic plan, consisting of its programs, services and benefits. The other major event is the Annual Celebration, which takes place in January.

Highlights of "Racing Rendezvous" will include a Hat Affair Contest, a Balloon Fest, a Photography Booth, and live music with dancing. Music will be by a jazz trio provided by Jazznik of Nik Entertainment

Tickets for the fund-raiser are $25 per person; which includes all food and non-alcoholic beverages for the evening. The evening’s meal is being prepared by Americrown Catering and sponsored by Watkins Glen International.

Contest entries, raffles and other fund-raising opportunities for the evening will be sold separately. The event will take place from 5-8 p.m., with dinner being served at 6 p.m. and the program starting after. Results of the Hat Affair Contest and Balloon Fest, as well as a cash prize drawing will take place after the program, with additional dancing and cocktails to follow.

For more information, contact the Chamber at (607) 535-4300 or email Katie@watkinsglenchamber.com.

Chamber names new Tourism Director

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, June 27 -- The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce has appointed Nikita Hairston as its new Director of Tourism and Marketing.

Hairston will be responsible for Schuyler County’s tourism promotion program, as well as the Chamber's marketing and public relations initiatives, membership recruitment, and event planning.

"Nikita is a great addition to our team," said Chamber President/Chief Executive Officer Rebekah LaMoreaux. "We are confident that she will build on our initiatives to promote the continued growth of the county's tourism by developing and maintaining relationships with local, state, and regional tourism partners."

Previously, Hairston worked in Corning Incorporated's Corporate Communications Department as a Communications Specialist, promoting the Global Energy Management initiatives. Through those efforts, she helped secure the company's first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified building. Prior to that, Hairston had a career as a television news reporter. As an on-air broadcaster, she worked for WENY (ABC) in Horseheads, NY; WUHF (FOX) in Rochester, NY; and WGME (CBS) in Portland, ME. Hairston holds a BA in English from Tuskegee University.

The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce serves as a central agency for businesses and organizations by rendering services designed to benefit all businesses of the community. The Watkins Chamber has been in existence for more than 100 years.

Photo in text: Nikita Hairston (Photo provided)

Spots still open for June 27 Blood Drive

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, June 21 -- Spots are still open for Schuyler Hospital’s Red Cross Blood Drive on Monday, June 27. It will be held from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Seneca View Activities Room.

While all blood types are needed during the critical summer months, the Red Cross urges those eligible donors with blood type O Negative to make and keep appointments to give blood this summer. Type O Negative is in critically low supply.

You may sign up to give today. Contact the Schuyler Hospital Lab at (607) 535-7121 ext. 2207.

Bartending finalist gives to Foundation

Special to The Odessa File

ADDISON, June 22 -- Jessica Perrine was born in Beaver Dams, now lives and works in Townsend, MD, has had her picture on the big screen in Times Square, and earlier this month made a special appearance at Fran’s Landing Bar & Grill in Addison.

Perrine showed off the skills that have taken her to the TGI Friday’s World Bartending Championship for six years, dedicating her tips to the Schuyler Hospital Health Foundation’s Family of Friends Campaign for Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility. She was joined at the bar by her husband, Marc Perrine.

Perrine’s mother, Deb Bailey, works for Schuyler Hospital, along with Fran’s Landing Co-Owner, Troy Preston. Together, they hatched a plan to have Perrine bring her talents as a mixologist home – and for a good cause.

Over $600 in tips was raised for the Schuyler Health Foundation.

“This is a terrific example of creative fund-raising, volunteerism and service on the part of Jessica and Marc,” said Bill Little, Executive Director for the Schuyler Health Foundation. “This Campaign for Seneca View honors family and friends who’ve lived at Seneca View, and family and friends who will call it home in years to come. Jessica and Marc remind us of the responsibility we have to care for those who’ve cared for us.”

Their donation honors the memory of Jessica’s uncle, Harry Rice, who was a resident of Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility, as well as her grandmother, who rehabilitated at Seneca View following surgery. It also acknowledges the loving and compassionate care provided by staff, including Perrine’s lifelong friend, Melissa Allmaier, Director of Nursing for Seneca View.

The Family of Friends Campaign for Seneca View will enable the hospital to “renovate, remodel and refresh” the facility and enhance the quality of life for all.

Perrine may not have won the crown of "The Greatest T.G.I. Friday's Bartender in the World" in Carrollton, Texas, at the end of March, but she ranks as one of 10 elite mixologists from around the globe.

According to TGI Friday’s website at www.fridays.com, “nearly 7,000 Friday's bartenders from 60 countries entered this year's World Bartender Championship. The 10 finalists exhibited their knowledge and showed off their flair through months of local, regional, divisional and national competitions to reach the finals.

“The finalists competed in a variety of skills tests, compulsory and speed rounds, where they demonstrated their mastery of bar mechanics, including technical knowledge and accuracy. The final freestyle segment gave the competitors the ultimate stage to show off their flair techniques of tossing, balancing, mixing cocktails and flipping bottles in the air to choreographed music.”

To make a donation to the Schuyler Health Foundation, call (607) 535-8879 ext. 226, or go to www.schuylerhospital.org.

Photo in text: Marc and Jess Perrine at Fran’s Landing Bar & Grill in Addison, NY, along with bar co-owner Troy Preston. (Photo provided)

Benesh earns Board Certification

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, June 21 -- Schuyler Hospital Physical Therapist Karen Benesh recently earned her Board Certification as a Geriatric Clinical Specialist.

A Physical Therapist, Benesh earned her Geriatric Clinical Specialty (GCS) through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS).

To obtain board certification, candidates must submit evidence of required clinical practice in a specialty area. In addition, candidates must successfully complete a rigorous written examination, demonstrating specialized knowledge and advanced clinical proficiency in a specialty area of physical therapist practice.

The APTA House of Delegates established specialist certification as a mechanism to formally recognize physical therapists who have demonstrated advanced clinical knowledge and skills. Since the program's inception in 1985 there has been a steady and substantial increase in the number of physical therapists who pursue specialist certification each year.

ABPTS was established by APTA as the governing body that awards certification to physical therapists who meet approved requirements.

To make an appointment with Benesh, or with any of Schuyler Hospital’s physical, speech, or occupational therapists, contact the Hospital’s Rehabilitation Services Department at (607) 535-8616.

Hazlitt Red Cat subsidiary hires Fitch

Special to The Odessa File

NAPLES, June 16 -- East Coast Crush & Co-Pack has announced the hiring of Dave Fitch as Sales Manager.

Fitch will be primarily responsible for the growth and development of the business's client base as well as current customer relations. East Coast Crush & Co-Pack (EC3) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hazlitt Red Cat Cellars in Naples, NY.

EC3 specializes in custom grape crushing, winemaking, co-packaging and warehousing for the beverage industry.

"Dave comes to us with extensive sales experience," said company President John Keeler. "We look forward to his exceptional abilities as a client services ambassador, his enthusiasm and team leadership skills."

"Dave's industry experience is a huge plus for us," added company Co-CEO Doug Hazlitt. "Dave has a complete wine and beverage background. From growing up in a family grape growing business to Cellar Assistant and Sales Associate for the emerging Finger Lakes wine industry back in the '80s and '90s to his recent experience in the microbrew world, he's the complete package."

Fitch comes to EC3 directly from Horwitz Supply Company in Elmira, where he held positions as a Regional Sales Representative and Sales Manager for the Northeastern U.S.

Mixer participants gather at the hors d'oeuvres tent outside the Village Marina.

Chamber holds Waterfront Mixer

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, June 16 -- The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce's June Mixer Wednesday was a “Progressive Waterfront Mixer” at Seneca Harbor Park. Four lakeside businesses joined together to provide an evening of networking opportunities, sailing and food.

Guests had the opportunity to tour three passenger vessels -- True Love, Lee Sea Anne I, and The Seneca Legacy. In addition to providing tours, the vessel’s captains were on deck for questions and answers and to provide the rich history of each vessel.

Hors d’oeuvres were available on board The Seneca Legacy and on the patio of the Village Marina Bar and Grill. Some attendees enjoyed a sail at the end of the evening aboard True Love or Lee Sea Anne I.

Photo in text: Chamber mixer participant Amanda Smith-Socaris of Seneca Physical Therapy.

Left: Chamber mixer participants John and Lorna King of the At The Falls B&B. Right: Lisa Navone of the True Love sailing vessel.

Workshops set on commercial districts

Special to The Odessa File

SCHUYLER COUNTY, June 12 -- Two follow-up workshops are being held June 29 to help determine future directions for the commercial districts of Burdett and Odessa. The workshops will build on the results of preliminary workshops held April 16.

At each of these meetings, the project team will present concept design plans for the commercial districts developed with the help of community input gathered at the April workshops. During the June 29 workshops, participants will prioritize short- and long-term public improvements for each commercial district and offer suggestions aimed at helping to “theme” the commercial districts to build on the unique character and identity of each.

The June 29 sessions will be held as follows:

6 p.m., Village of Odessa Municipal Building, 300 East Main Street, Odessa.

6 p.m., Burdett Presbyterian Church, 3995 Church Street, Burdett.

The project consultant, peter j. smith & company, inc., of Buffalo, will facilitate the workshops and use the results to define specific implementation steps to enhance each village commercial district.

The project partners, led by Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development (SCOPED), include each village’s board and planning board, the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce and the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Schuyler County Planning/Community Development.

The design workshops are part of a public input program designed to provide everyone who wants to participate ample opportunity to do so. Focus Groups and personal interviews have also been ongoing throughout the project.

The design workshops are free and open to the public. Participants need not be residents of either village to participate.

Eggs at Eight theme: customer service skills

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, June 8 -- The Business and Education Committee of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce will host its next small-business roundtable discussion, Eggs at Eight, at 8 a.m. Tuesday, June 14 at Classic Chef’s, located between Watkins Glen and Montour Falls.

The session will include information on the value of perfecting customer service skills. Audrey Manchester , Chemung Canal Trust Company Vice President and Regional Manager, will share with attendees the skills she has learned in her 35 years with Chemung Canal.

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 a spot, contact the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce at 607-535-4300 or email Katie Strawser at katie@watkinsglenchamber.com.

Hospital bills can now be paid on-line

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, June 1 -- Schuyler Hospital recently added a new feature to its website to allow patients, residents and resident families to pay bills on-line. Bills may include any from Schuyler Hospital, Schuyler Hospital physicians, or the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility.

With your bill in hand, go to www.schuylerhospital.org, and click on the icon for “Make Payments On-Line.” Type in your information and follow the steps.

“We want to make it as hassle-free as possible for our patients, residents and resident families to pay their bills,” said Amy Castle, CFO / Vice President of Finance. “This will save patients time, checks, and postage. Just log on, enter some information, and choose which credit card you’d like to use to pay your bill. It’s that simple!”

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

Dillenbeck gets Community Member Award

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, May 31 -- Pat Dillenbeck was recently presented with the Schuyler County Mental Health Association's Community Member Award for his services to those afflicted with mental health illness.

The award was presented at a Mental Health Association dinner by Debbie Hastings, Senior Recreation Therapist-facilitator in the Office of Mental Health.

George Roets, Director of Community Services and Public Health, was the speaker at the dinner. He spoke about the continuing need for services for the Mental Health community.

Dillenbeck volunteers to clean, and to cover the Rainbow Chaser's Club in a facilitator's absence. The Rainbow Chaser's club is for those community members who are consumers of mental health and/or alcohol treatment services. He also drives consumers to various functions depending on their need.

Photo in text: Honoree Pat Dillenbeck and presenter Debbie Hastings. (Photo provided)

Hospital Blood Drive set for June 27

MONTOUR FALLS, June 1 -- Schuyler Hospital will hold a Blood Drive on Monday, June 27, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Seneca View Activities Room.

According to hospital officials, while 38% of Americans are eligible to give blood, only 8% actually do.

If interested in donating, you can sign up by contacting the Schuyler Hospital Lab at (607) 535-7121 ext. 2207.

Hospital offers free Medicare seminar

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, June 1 -- If you’re newly eligible for Medicare, or caring for someone who has Medicare, you know that the choices can be overwhelming.

That’s why – in partnership with Schuyler County Office for the Aging – Schuyler Hospital is presenting an educational session on “Medicare Basics -- Parts A, B, C, D, and Filling the Gaps.”

The free seminar will be held Tuesday, June 28, from 5-7 p.m., in the Seneca View Activities Room (enter northside of hospital, Seneca View main entrance). A free meal will be provided.

The seminar will include Medicare options, medication coverage, coordination with other insurances, assistance for those with low incomes, and ample time for questions and answers

Space is limited, so pre-register by calling (607) 210-1950 or email info@schuylerhospital.org

Craft Brewery Festival set for June 16

Special to The Odessa File

What: Finger Lakes Craft Brewery Festival
When: June 16, 2011 from 6-11 p.m.
Where: Hidden Valley Campground/Watkins Glen

WATKINS GLEN, May 30 -- Craft breweries from around the Finger Lakes are joining together to highlight the growing craft beer movement through an inaugural festival -- and are inviting beer enthusiasts to it.

The Finger Lakes Craft Brewery Festival is also a benefit to increase awareness and facilitate money to be donated to “Gas Free Seneca,” a local non-profit group dedicated to stopping Liquid Propane Gas gas storage in the Watkins Glen area.

Day-of-the-event tickets are available at the gate for $45 (cash only) beginning at 4:00 p.m. The gate opens at 6:00 p.m.

Hidden Valley rests behind Watkins Glen State Park. There will be an indoor courtyard tasting area with music and specialty food, and an outdoor courtyard area also with tasting and live music. The event will be held rain or shine.

Some overnight group cabin rentals, sleeping 10-20, will be available for $120; email for details.
For more information about reserving a cabin for groups of 10 or more, or any other information, contact Kathy at roosterfishbooking@gmail.com, or checkwww.facebook.com/roosterfish.

On-line tickets can be purchased at: http://www.ticketriver.com/event/1583/

No one under 21 will be allowed on the site unless accompanied by a parent.

Designated Drivers are encouraged.

Wristbands will be issued and must be worn at all times by all people on the site.

A partial list of participating breweries: Rooster Fish Brewing, Keuka Brewing Company, Cortland Beer Company, Two Goats, Bandwagon, Ithaca Beer, Finger Lakes Brewing, Naked Dove, Middle Ages, Rogers Brewing, Wagner Valley, Seneca Lodge Craft Brewing.

Canfield wins 2011 Lou Sand Award

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, May 26 -- Respiratory Technician Tina Canfield was named the recipient of the 2011 Lou Sand Award at Schuyler Hospital's annual meeting Wednesday.

Canfield received five nominations for the award from her fellow hospital staff members.

The nominations described Canfield as “kind, caring, compassionate and professional.” In addition, they read that Canfield “goes out of her way to help others and always has a smile on her face.” And, “Canfield has an ability to put patients at ease and always provides excellent care.”

Canfield has worked in Schuyler Hospital’s Respiratory Therapy Department since 1988. She first joined Schuyler Hospital in 1987 as part of the Dietary team. After two years, she left to pursue her education in Respiratory Therapy, then returned to Schuyler Hospital to pursue her new career.

Canfield, who is active in her church, has three daughters -- Jamie, Jackie and Megan -- and is a proud new grandmother.

Schuyler Hospital annually gives the award in memory of Lou Sand of Odessa to an employee who demonstrates exemplary service to others, and whose compassionate commitment of service to fellow employees, patients, residents and community brightens the lives of many -- traits, hospital officials say, that were exemplified by Lou Sand.

Photo in text: Schuyler Hospital President/CEO Rick Stelzer presents the 2011 Lou Sand Award to Tina Canfield. (Photo provided)

SFLW installs 2011-2012 officers

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLs, May 23 -- The new officers of the Southern Finger Lakes Women (SFLW), a chapter of New York State Women, Inc. (NYSWI), were installed at the chapter’s May 16 meeting held at Carol Bower’s Catering in Montour Falls.

Installing Officer was Mary Ellen Morgan, NYSWI President. She was assisted by Gloria Hutchings, District VI Director and past president of SFLW. The new officers for 2011-2012 are pictured, left to right: Mary Ellen Morgan; Christine Brown, president; Lisa Rhoads, president-elect; Carole Shay, secretary; Judith Coyle, treasurer, and Gloria Hutchings. Absent from the photo was Onalee Stamp, vice president.

New York State Women, Inc., provides members with professional development, networking, and career advancement resources. Its mission is to achieve equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education and information. The Southern Finger Lakes Women Chapter meets on the 3rd Monday of each month. For more information about the Southern Finger Lakes Women, contact Gloria Hutchings at (607) 594-2489 or JoAnne Krolak at (607) 732-1171.

The Arc celebrates artistic achievements

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, May 24 -- The Arc of Schuyler celebrated the arts with over 100 organization members and staff at its Annual Meeting and Reception at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel on May 19.

Guests enjoyed an exhibit of paintings, photography and sculptures created by individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities participating in visual arts classes held at The Arc as one of its many Day Habilitation service choices. Many of the pieces included in the exhibit are on display and for sale at the Franklin Street Gallery and Gift Shop, operated by The Arc of Schuyler.

The Director of Day and Community Supports, Jason Santobianco, and Jason Crane -- a participant of services at The Arc -- shared a presentation of short films created by the Big Shots Productions film club organized by persons with and without developmental disabilities interested in filmmaking.

Ginnie Lupi, Executive Director of The ARTS Council of the Southern Finger Lakes, discussed the intrinsic value of the arts to individuals and communities and shared her experience visiting a visual art class at The Arc with the audience.

“Students were making prints and I watched as brightly colored works of art emerged. Staff did not need to show me around, because an enthusiastic student who had limited verbal skills pointed out every piece of artwork and clearly communicated his passion for art,” Lupi said.

“This student had found his voice through art making, and that’s what it’s about, folks. No matter where art is made or where it is encountered, art can change people’s lives.”

The President of The Arc of Schuyler’s Board of Directors, Harold J. Hoffmeier, presented Lupi with a painting -- created by an artist supported at The Arc of Schuyler -- as a gift for her efforts to maintain art opportunities for everyone in the Southern Finger Lakes.

Recognitions were presented to staff members of The Arc for significant years of service as well as awards for Direct Support Professional Excellence, Personal Achievement, Customer Appreciation and Distinguished Service.

The Arc of Schuyler Meeting and Reception is an annual event at which members participate in the election of board directors and officers, acknowledge friends of The Arc and celebrate achievements.

The Arc of Schuyler is a non-profit organization providing supports to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families in the Schuyler County area. For more information on The Arc, call 607-535-6934, visit www.arcofschuyler.org or find The Arc of Schuyler on Facebook.

Photos in text:

Top: The Arc's Director of Day and Community Supports, Jason Santobianco (left), and Jason Crane present a series of short films created by The Arc's film club, Big Shot Productions.

Bottom: Ginnie Lupi, executive director of the ARTS Council of the Southern Finger Lakes, with a gift from the Arc to her, painted by an artist receiving supports at The Arc. (Photos provided)

Hazlitt Vineyards, others recognized by Arc

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, May 24 -- The Arc of Schuyler celebrated not only the arts at its Annual Meeting and Reception on May 19 at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, but also the significant contributions and achievements of several individuals and a business that have valuable relationships with The Arc.

Doug Hazlitt and Leigh Triner, owners of Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards, accepted The Arc’s Customer Appreciation Award in acknowledgment of the 6-year business relationship Hazlitt shares with The Arc of Schuyler’s industrial and vocational division, Glen Industries. Glen Industries is the food co-packaging services provider for Hazlitt’s Red Cat-astrophe hot sauce among other products. Additionally, Hazlitt is a consistent supporter of The Arc of Schuyler’s fundraising efforts.

“They have several times formed a team to participate in our annual golf tournament and have been generous sponsors,” said Holly Baker, Community Relations Coordinator for The Arc. “This year Hazlitt will be the starting point for our Motorcycle Ride for The Arc fundraising event on July 30 and I know their involvement will be help us see a great turnout for this event.”

David Dalrymple of Rockstream, a generous volunteer and member of The Arc, was presented the Distinguished Service Award in appreciation of his 10 years of leadership as The Arc’s Annual Golf Tournament Committee Chair and his assistance in raising over $150,000 for the organization since the tournament started in 2001.

David Fraboni of Watkins Glen was the recipient of the Personal Achievement Award given to an individual with a developmental disability who has realized a personal goal. After participating in vocational training at Glen Industries, Arc officials said, Fraboni gained employment in the community and is enjoying success and making meaningful relationships in his position.

Carolyn Sullivan of Watkins Glen was recognized with the Direct Support Professional Excellence Award for her significant contributions to The Arc’s visual arts classes, her commitment to professional development and her 21-year commitment to providing quality supports to individuals with developmental disabilities.

Staff employed for 10 or more years at The Arc were also recognized. Acknowledged staff members were: Yvonne Coates and Susan Wayne, 10 years; Nikole Piper and Martyn Watson, 11 years; Mary Bardo and Michelle Lawton, 12 years; Linda Barber, 13 years; Sharon Clawson, Cathy Corso and Kathy Swarthout, 14 years; Julie Bub, 16 years; Robert Warn, 17 years; Karen Petrie, 18 years; Marie Scott, 20 years; Carolyn Sullivan, 21 years; Patricia Wilcox, 26 years; and Jeannette Frank, 32 years.

Photos in text: Leigh Triner and Doug Hazlitt, owners of Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards, with their Customer Appreciation Award; and David Dalrymple with his Distinguished Service Award. (Photos provided)

Hospital Mammography services okayed

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, April 30 -- For the fifth year in a row, Schuyler Hospital’s Radiology Department passed the U.S. FDA’s annual MQSA (Mammography Quality Standards Act) inspection with no discrepancies.

Congress enacted MQSA to ensure that all women have access to quality mammography for the detection of breast cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages.

The rigorous inspection evaluates equipment, staff credentials and training, policies, and performance – including proper film identification, reporting, and documentation.

The MQSA inspector gave high praise for Schuyler Hospital’s “orderly and neat quality documentation.”

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.

For more information, call the hospital at (607) 535-7121 or go to www.schuylerhospital.org

Family of Friends Campaign will benefit Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, April 28 -- The Seneca Indians had a saying, “He who would do great things should not attempt them all alone.”

On a hilltop overlooking the lake named after the Seneca, a campaign is underway that calls on the entire community to honor our elders and give them a home away from home that is worthy of the lives they have lived and have left to live.

William Little, Executive Director of the Schuyler Health Foundation, has announced that the 2011-12 Family of Friends Campaign will raise funds for the Hospital’s Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility.

Little says the campaign will build on Seneca View’s legacy of loving and compassionate care by renovating, remodeling and refreshing the facility. Comfortable and vibrant living room areas will be created, providing residents with more interaction and participation in activities. In addition, the meal program will be altered to expand hours and availability, giving residents more independence on when and what they’d like to eat.

“This campaign is for our friends – our friends living at Seneca View, and those who will call it home in years to come,” Little says. “I cannot think of a more worthy cause or better investment in our future."

Co-Chairs for the 2011-12 Campaign are Ken Wilson and Max Neal.

Says Wilson: "My sister and I have great appreciation for Seneca View and the high level of care and compassion it provides. We are happy to help the kickoff of this year's campaign with a $5,000 gift in memory of my mother, who was a resident there until her death in May 2010." Wilson hopes that others will also give generously in memory or in honor of their loved ones.

Added Neal: “This campaign is so exciting because it will give residents more calming, comfortable home-inspired spaces in which to gather. Residents and their families will enjoy the new, fresh environment, and be nurtured by the caring staff.” Because the project is focused on community and quality of life, Neal said she hopes that others will share in her energy and passion and give from their hearts.

The Honorary Chairs for the 2011-12 Campaign are Dr. James W. and Rita T. Carmony. Rita Tague Carmony says, “Having served as Seneca View medical director for ten years, my late husband, Dr. William F. Tague, would often say, ‘The surroundings should be more home-like for our residents. We should encourage residents to be more involved in their daily living activities and surroundings.’ I know he would be quite pleased with the direction of this project.”

The Carmonys’ entire extended family – including the William A. Tague, William F. Tague, Sal Purpura, and Tom Seem families – has thrown their full support behind the project that they feel should be important to every family.

The campaign goal is to raise $200,000 for Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility, though needs to enhance the quality of life for Seneca View residents – present and future – extend beyond that goal.

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

Photo in text: The 2011 Honorary Campaign Family: The William A. Tague, William F. Tague, Sal Purpura, Tom Seem and Jim Carmony Families. (Photo provided)

WGI names Elizabeth Mayer its PR manager

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, April 25 -- Watkins Glen International has added Elizabeth Mayer to its communications staff as public relations manager, effective immediately.

Mayer comes to WGI by way of the University of Connecticut, where she served as an Athletic Communications Assistant for the past two years.

She will be assigned a wide range of responsibilities in her new role. Her primary duties will includes drafting press releases, managing the media credential process, pitching media on story opportunities, scheduling radio call-ins with local and regional affiliates for drivers and WGI staff, and designing the track’s monthly e-newsletters.

During event weekends, Mayer will be assisting in the operation of the WGI Media Center by managing press conferences, troubleshooting, and resolving issues. She will also spearhead the “Read for Speed” program at Watkins Glen Elementary School as well as help strengthen relationships with local and regional media and community leaders.

A 2007 graduate of Ithaca College, Mayer completed several undergraduate internships en route to a Bachelor of Science in Sports Media. Her most recent position at UConn provided experience as the primary media contact for several of the university’s athletic teams, designing media guides and game programs, drafting press releases, and distributing game recaps and results to media.

Mayer’s other experience includes time with Roswell Park Cancer Institute, the Buffalo Sabres, and the Binghamton Senators as well as spending her first year after college with the Lafayette College athletic communications office.

Dr. Ben Saks joining hospital staff in July

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, April 24 -- Schuyler Hospital has announced that Benjamin Saks, DO, will join its medical staff in July.

A native of the area, Saks received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology from the University of Scranton; and his Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program Certificate and Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. He is currently completing his residency at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Dr. Ben Saks will join his father, Dr. Bill Saks, on the Schuyler Hospital Medical Staff. While Dr. Bill Saks is an OB/GYN at September Hill Women’s Center, Dr. Ben Saks will specialize in Internal Medicine at the Montour Falls Primary Care Center.

For more information, contact the Primary Care Center at (607) 535-7154, or go to www.schuylerhospital.org

Photo in text: Benjamin Saks, DO (Photo provided)

Plastic container collection set for June 3

Special to The Odessa File

SCHUYLER COUNTY, April 24 -- Farmers all around New York State are recycling their triple-rinsed plastic containers from agricultural crop protection products such as specialty pest control, crop oils, surfactants and micro-nutrient/fertilizer.

The Schuyler County Soil and Water Conservation District will be holding a collection day for these containers on Friday, June 3 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the 4H Youth Fair complex on Meads Hill Road in the Town of Dix. Pre-registration is due by May 20. The Soil and Water Conservation District -- located in the Shared Services Building on Decatur Street in Watkins Glen -- can be reached at (607) 535-6878.

At the time of pre-registration, the District will provide large bags that hold 50-60 containers (2.5 gallons each) along with ID Tags for the bags.

The program is coordinated as part of the District’s Agricultural Environmental Management Program (AEM), with its AEM partners -- Cornell Cooperative Extension, Farm Bureau, and the Agricultural and Farmland Protection Board. It is made possible in conjunction with USAg Recycling, Inc., and the Ag Container Recycling Council (ACRC).

The service is free to farmers and -- says the District in a press release -- "provides an environmentally friendly alternative to burning or throwing away agricultural containers."

Containers accepted are HDPE #2 plastic containers only, ranging from less than 1 gallon to 55-gallon barrel sizes. Large, 250-gallon, shuttle totes must be cut into 2’ x 2’ wide pieces and free of any hardware. To be accepted, plastic containers must be empty, triple rinsed, uncapped, and dry. Contact the Soil and Water Conservation District to pre-register and receive bags.

Four students in Kaz Estelow's Professionalism Class at Watkins Glen High School visited the Expo, assisting with the set-up and learning about the business community. From left: the Career Development Council's Tess Pollack, Stephanie Clawson, Ashley Tieppo, Morgan Atwood, Estelow, and Kaitlin Crane.

Business Expo draws a crowd

WATKINS GLEN, April 21 -- Fifty vendors and a steady stream of visitors were on hand at the Watkins Glen International Media Center Wednesday for the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce's fifth annual Business Expo -- its first at that site.

The Expo, hosted by the Chamber's Business and Education Committee and sponsored by WGI, WETM, WETM 2 and REDEC/RRC, was spread around three areas on the Media Center's second floor: the Great Room, the lobby and the cafeteria. There was plenty of food available for free, and refreshments for a fee.

One popular feature was the availability of free pace-car rides around the WGI racetrack. The four-hour event also served, during its final two hours, as the Chamber's monthly mixer, where Chamber members gather to network.

Among the vendors on hand: Chemung Canal Trust Company, GST BOCES, REDEC/RRC, the Chamber of Commerce, WETM TV, Black Rock Speedway, Finger Lakes Website Services, Harvest Cafe, Office Equipment Source, Photos Royale, the Schuyler County Historical Society, Seneca Sailing Adventures, Valicenti Advisory Services, Inc., All-Mode Communications, Inc.; Chakra Communications Inc., Corning Community College, CSS Workforce NY, Dibble's Applicance Sales & Service, Elmira Business Institute, Elmira Savings Bank, Finger Lakes Wellness Center & Health Spa, and Hill Top Inn Restaurant, Banquets & Catering.

Also: Keller Williams Realty, Kirton's Farm Market, Jill Peek-Lyons National Bank, Mengel Metzger Barr & Co., MFT Limited, Nelson Development, OMS Elmira Inc., Pembrook Pine Media Group, Radisson Hotel Corning, Red Newt Cellars Winery & Bistro, Reisinger's Apple Country, the Schuyler County Childcare Coordinating Council, the Schuyler County Volunteer Ambulance Association, the Schuyler Health Foundation, Shepard Niles, Southern Finger Lakes Women, Southern Tier Hospice & Palliative Care, Special Event Network, Sunset View Creamery, Verizon Wireless Worldwide Inc., Village Marina Bar & Grill, Visions Federal Credit Union, Watkins Glen International, Watkins Glen Massage, and Wings of Eagles Discovery Center.

Various of the vendors held raffles for prizes, and many had giveaways of pens, letter openers and other items.

Members of the Chamber's Business & Education Committee are Diane Lantz, chair (REDEC/RRC), Serena Crossfield (Connect with Crossfield), Fred Hall (Town of Dix), Deb Harrington (Greater Southern Tier BOCES), Rebekah LaMoreaux (Chamber of Commerce), Tess Pollack (Watkins Glen Central School District), David Sidle (David L. Sidle Agency, Inc.), Mike Smith (CSS Workforce New York), Katie Strawser (Chamber of Commerce) and Stacy Woodworth (Chemung Canal Trust Company).

Photos in text:

Top: Becki Wheeler greeted Business Expo visitors at the Nelson Development table, which featured diagrams of the layout of the Flats on Broadway apartment and business complex being developed in the former Rural Urban Center in Montour Falls. Three of the building's eight apartments have been leased.

Middle: Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce representatives Rebekah LaMoreaux (the organization's president), Jillian Kubasik and Katie Strawser.

Bottom: Three men share a laugh at the Schuyler County Historical Society Museum table. From left are the museum director, Andrew Tompkins, photographer and museum researcher Richard Owlett, and Terry Stewart, captain of the Seneca Sailing Adventures cruise operation. He was manning an Expo table nearby.

Hospital names next President

Andrew Manzer to succeed Stelzer, who is retiring June 30

MONTOUR FALLS, NY – The Schuyler Hospital Board of Directors has announced the hiring of Andrew Manzer as President and Chief Executive Officer for Schuyler Hospital.

Manzer will succeed Rick Stelzer, who retires from a 45-year healthcare career on June 30.

Manzer brings a wealth of healthcare leadership experience. He currently serves as Vice President of Operations at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. Prior to his work in Ohio, he was Vice President of Support Services at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, IL, and Administrative Director of Operations at Guthrie Health in Sayre, PA.

Manzer is a native of this region and plans to start at Schuyler Hospital on June 1 in order to work alongside Stelzer prior to Stelzer's retirement.

Photo in text: Andrew Manzer (Photo provided)

SWCD offers Green Arbor Program

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, April 12 --While farmers, homeowners and communities are preparing for the warmer months ahead, the Schuyler County Soil and Water Conservation District is also gearing up to assist in efforts to green up the environment.

“The Conservation District provides green programs and services that are available to everyone,” says District Manager Jerry Verrigni.

One of the District's most popular programs is its Tree and Shrub Seedling Sales. Thousands of conservation plantings purchased at less than a dollar each will be greening up Schuyler County this spring. About 15,000 trees and shrubs have been sold this year.

"These plantings will be used for stream bank stabilization, windbreaks, erosion control and even living snow fences, while also creating wildlife habitat," said District Technician Lloyd Wetherbee. “We also offer advice and maps on soil types, which can help determine what to plant, when to plant and where.” Geographic Information System (GIS) maps are also available. GIS maps are a computer-based tool that makes use of “layers” of geographically related information.

Farmers and landowners can also benefit from the District’s newest addition to its conservation program by renting their vineyard/wildlife food plot, "No Till Drill," to plant cover crops and other seedings without plowing up the ground.

"This helps protect soil from erosion, builds organic matter and decreases nutrient loss,” said Verrigni. "For a minimal charge, this practice decreases fuel costs, while also saving time. It’s good for the environment and it’s good for the bottom line.”

The District offers a Rain Barrel Program to help homeowners collect and store rainwater for lawn and garden use, and provides assistance for establishing Rain Gardens that help reduce stormwater runoff, while creating habitat for birds and butterflies.

For more information on these programs and other services offered by the SWCD, call 607-535-9650.

Photo in text: David Ulrich (left) of the Town of Hector purchases Concolor seedlings from Soil and Water Conservation District Technician Lloyd Wetherbee at the SWCD's annual Green Arbor tree and shrub sale last week. Bluebird houses were also sold and are still available. (Photo provided)

Stormwater Training session planned

Special to The Odessa File

ELMIRA, April 9 -- A Construction Activity Training Session for Contractors and Developers dealing with Stormwater, Erosion and Sediment Control will take place on April 18 from 8 a.m. to noon at the Southport Fire Hall, Cedar Street (off Clemens Center Parkway) in Elmira.

Under the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Stormwater Permit, GP-0-10-001, all developers, contractors and subcontractors must identify at least one trained individual from their company who will be responsible for implementation of the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), and have at least one trained individual on site on a daily basis when soil disturbance activities are being performed, according to a press release from the co-sponsoring Rural Stormwater Coalition and Chemung County Stormwater Coalition. Also, the release notes, developers must have a qualified inspector conduct regular site inspections in accordance with GP-0-10-001.

In addition, all qualified inspectors and trained individuals must complete four hours of training in the principles and practices of erosion and sediment control. Upon completion, each participant will receive a NYS DEC registration number valid for three years. This April 18 session will fulfill the training requirement, the release says.

Pre-registration is required. For registration information, go to www.chemungstormwater.org or call (607) 796-2216.

Eggs at Eight focus: advertising programs

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, April 6 -- The Business and Education Committee of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce will host its next small-business roundtable discussion, Eggs at Eight, at 8 a.m. Tuesday, April 12 at the Harvest Café in downtown Montour Falls. The session will feature the Chamber’s recently announced cooperative advertising programs.

In efforts to promote and enhance commerce within the chamber and business community, the Chamber has introduced four new cooperative advertising programs that are free of charge to its membership. The following individuals will be on hand to describe in detail how each program works and will be available for specific questions: Bridgette Stewart with The Hi-Lites, Sonya Kelley with Pembrook Pines Media Group, George Lawson with The Watkins Review & Express, and Tammy Haskell with WETM-TV.

Members are being encouraged to attend to learn how these programs were designed to save businesses marketing and advertising dollars.

The cost to attend 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 Chamber at 607-535-4300 or email katie@watkinsglenchamber.com.

Youth Site to be used by Coalition

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, April 6 -- Cornell Cooperative Extension of Schuyler County (CCESC) has entered into an agreement with the Upper Susquehanna Coalition (USC) for use of the Schuyler County Youth Site on Meads Hill Road in the Town of Dix.

The use will not rule out educational events related to dog training and youth development, says a Cooperative Extension spokesperson. "Hopefully there will be other things going on there," she said, although such events will have to be coordinated with the Coalition.

A silent auction on the site on Thursday, April 7, from 3-6 p.m. was scheduled to include kitchen equipment, horse panels and other miscellaneous items, but not tables, chairs and picnic tables that might be used for those other events in the future. The public is invited to the auction, but should come prepared to remove any items won; loading assistance will not be available.

The Upper Susquehanna Coalition is a network of 16 Soil and Water Conservation Districts in New York and three Conservation Districts in Pennsylvania with a mission to “protect and improve water quality and natural resources in the Upper Susquehanna River Basin with the involvement of citizens and agencies through education, partnerships, planning implementation and advocating for our water resources.”

The USC does extensive wetland construction work within Schuyler County and the upper reaches of the Basin, and frequently partners with the Schuyler County Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD).

The USC plans to utilize the site to house several staff members, to propagate species for wetland construction sites and to provide a local base of operations. Future plans may include public outreach and education on agriculture, wetlands, streams, stormwater and alternative energy.

According to Jerry Verrigni, District Manager at the SWCD, his group and the USC will be “…working with Cooperative Extension to continue and enhance the education and the Youth [Site] Facility.”

Says Liz Stamp, Cooperative Extension Board President, “We are glad to see the Youth Fair site in use by the Upper Susquehanna Coalition. Their purpose and programs promote and implement responsible stewardship of our land resources, a valuable asset in Schuyler County.”

Arc to host workshops on SSI, SSD

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, April 5 -- The Arc of Schuyler will host a series of workshops for recipients of Supplemental Security Income and Social Security Disability, their family members and service providers to learn more about SSI/SSD benefits and work incentives.

“Many people receiving Social Security benefits worry about the risk of losing their cash and medical benefits if they have earnings by returning or entering into the workforce,” Director of Glen Industries Brian Bockelkamp said. “Our goal is to assist people in achieving employment while helping them make informed decisions on how that would affect their benefits.”

Workshops include:

April 11: Supplemental Security Income and Social Security Disability Work Incentives. Participants will learn the impact of employment on SSI/SSD benefits and medical benefits as well as how holding a job can maximize income.

April 18: Medicaid Buy-In. Participants will learn the advantages of this program, get an eligibility screening and receive an application for the program.

April 25: Avoiding Overpayments A brief overview of SSI/SSD work incentives, how overpayments occur and how to avoid them.

May 2: Supplemental Security Income’s Plan for Achieving Self Support. Learn about a work incentive that allows individuals to exclude income or resources used to pay for a work goal while obtaining or retaining eligibility for Supplemental Security Income and Medicaid.

Workshops will be facilitated by Brian Bockelkamp and Job Placement Coordinator Stacey Layton. Both are certified by the Employment and Disability Institute at Cornell University as Benefits and Work Incentives Practitioners.

All workshops are free to attend and will be held on Mondays from 10-11:30 a.m. at The Arc of Schuyler, 210 Twelfth Street in Watkins Glen. Please RSVP to Brian Bockelkamp by calling 607-535-6934 or email: bbockelkamp@arcofschuyler.org.

The Arc of Schuyler is a non-profit human service organization providing supports including vocational training and job placement services through its Glen Industries division to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Learn more about The Arc of Schuyler at www.arcofschuyler.org or call 607-535-6934.

Montour House renovation honored

MONTOUR FALLS, April 1 -- The renovation of the Montour House has been selected to receive the Preservation League of New York State's award for Excellence in Historic Preservation.

Bruce Nelson, whose Nelson Development Group renovated the historic structure on Montour Falls' Main Street, has been invited to receive the award at the Preservation League's annual meeting and awards ceremony on May 12 at the New York Yacht Club in New York City.

During the ceremony, the Montour House and other honored projects will be featured in a powerpoint presentation.

The League's awards program "honors notable achievements in retaining, promoting and reusing New York's historic resources," said a letter from the League to Nelson. "Your efforts help us make the case for historic preservation, bridge the gap between today and tomorow, and create a more vibrant and vital New York State."

The Montour House, the letter went on to say, "was once a conspicuous white elephant in the Finger Lakes region. For over two decades, residents, Cornell students, architects, developers and planners tried unsuccessfully to put the building back to use. At long last, the right combination of partners has been assembled and this anchor building is bringing new life to the village."

Photo in text: Bruce Nelson (File photo)

Auxiliary offers health care scholarships

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, March 31 -- The Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary is offering scholarships to students who plan to enter the health care field.

Two scholarships are available to graduating high school students who are residents of Schuyler County, and one to hospital employees wishing to further their education in the health care field. Three $1,000 scholarships are available.

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

Application deadline is May 13, 2011.

For more information, contact Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary member Joan Argetsinger at (607) 535-6622.

Hospital earns award for 8th straight year

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, March 31 -- Schuyler Hospital’s Cardiopulmonary Services Department has once again earned 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 the hospitals in the United States, have applied for and received this award. Schuyler Hospital has received the award every year since it was first awarded in 2003.

The QRCR program was started by the American Association for Respiratory Care in 2003 to help consumers identify those facilities using qualified respiratory therapists to provide respiratory care. Hospitals earning the QRCR designation ensure patient safety by agreeing to adhere to a strict set of criteria governing their respiratory care services.

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

History comes alive at SFLW session

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, March 31 -- To mark Women’s History Month, the Southern Finger Lakes Women (SFLW), a chapter of New York State Women, Inc. (NYSWI), hosted female figures from 1911 at its March 21 dinner meeting.

Present were "Christabel Pankhurst," who spoke on the Women’s Suffrage movement in England; "Rose Schneiderman," who talked about her efforts to obtain better working conditions for women; "Minna Everleigh," who discussed her business (the “Everleigh Club”), and "Romaine Brooks," an up and coming artist. These women were portrayed by members of the Lake Country Players, a noted local theatrical company.

Photo in text: From left to right: Mildred Denson, SFLW member; Christabel Pankhurst (played by Lisa McKnight); Onalee Stamp, SFLW Vice President; Rose Schneiderman (played by Dr. Sarra Solomon); and Rose Ciccone, SFLW member. Not shown are Minna Everleigh (played by Cindy Scott), and Romaine Brooks (played by Beth Clark).

Library to host Job Link computer classes

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, March 27 -- Free Job Link computer classes will be offered in April at the Watkins Glen Public Library, 610 S. Decatur St.

"Create a Strong Resume" is on Tuesday, April 5th at 1:00 p.m., and "Master the Online Job Search" on Tuesday, April 19th at 1:00 p.m.

The classes are centered on your questions and concerns; stop by and consult the experts. To pre-register or for more information, contact the library at (607)535-2346 or watkins @stls.org.

More information on JobLink is available at http:/joblink.stls.org

Hazlitt winery featured in magazine

Special to The Odessa File

HECTOR, March 25 -- Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards is featured on the cover of -- and in an accompanying story in -- the March/April 2011 issue of Vineyard & Winery Management Magazine.

The article is titled "The Two Faces of Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards." The following words accompany the headline: "One of New York's largest wineries confronts sweet success, points to vinifera virtues."

The Hazlitt family has been growing grapes on the eastern shore of Seneca Lake for more than 150 years. Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards was established in 1984, and produces Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Cabernet Franc, along with is popular Red Cat and White Cat wines.

The article points out that Red Cat -- with sales built on canny advertising -- has a production of 126,000 cases per year and reaches customers in 14 states.

An annual sales growth of that product of 20% and more, it notes, prompted the purchase in 2010 of the former Widmer Wine Cellars facility -- with an eye toward "grow(ing) Red Cat to a 3-million-gallon brand."

Yet the business, the magazine says, is haunted by that Red Cat popularity -- which contributes to a limitation in vinifera sales even though (as an Albany Times Union columnist is quoted) Hazlitt has "always been known in the industry and by insiders as fine grapegrowers and have produced some of the finest vinifera."

Adds the magazine: "Yet, the association with sweet wine dogs the winery, keeping wine writers and serious wine drinkers away. In some circles, Red Cat's success has brought scorn from those who believe the wine hurts the state's reputation."

That all goes back to a party atmosphere in the winery's early days, the article notes. Says business co-owner Leigh Hazlitt Triner: "That is not conducive to people who are serious about wine. We have to figure out how to market Red Cat to the people of now."

To read the full article, click here. For more information, visit ww.Hazlitt1852.com or www.RedCatWine.com.

Photo in text: Cover of the magazine, featuring winery co-owners and siblings Doug Hazlitt and Leigh Hazlitt Triner.

Chamber's annual travel guide has arrived

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, March 23 -- The Watkins Glen and Schuyler County Travel Guide produced annually by the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce has arrived for the summer tourism season.

Featuring a chapter-like format, the guide features high-end photography, links to videos, vacation planning deals/specials, website and social media references, testimonials, and traveler tips. It again includes illustrated pull-out maps incorporating state, regional, county and village locations featuring colorful key attractions to the area.

The guide is available at the Chamber’s Visitor Center, and can be downloaded in an interactive format on the Chamber’s website, www.watkinsglenchamber.com. Copies can be reserved and ordered by contacting Katie Strawser, Visitor Center Coordinator, at 607-535-4300 or by emailing katie@watkinsglenchamber.com

In 2010, a total of 130,000 guides were printed and delivered. The same amount were printed again for 2011. Dixon Schwabl, an advertising, marketing and public relations firm out of Victor, NY designed the piece. Vanguard Printing of Ithaca, NY printed it. Both businesses are members of the Chamber.

Wilson to retire from Arc

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, March 22 -- James E. Wilson, executive director of The Arc of Schuyler since its formation nearly 33 years ago, will retire at the end of June, it has been announced by The Arc Board of Directors.

Wilson has been executive director since The Arc's inception in 1978. It has grown to be one of the largest employers in Schuyler County and provides supports to hundreds of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

According to Harold J. Hoffmeier, president of The Arc’s Board of Directors, the process of forming a search committee has begun. In the interim, Jeannette Frank, assistant executive director, will be the acting executive director effective July 1. Frank has served as the assistant executive director at the organization for many years.

Wilson began his career at The Arc after working at other organizations providing supports to people with disabilities, including Challenge Industries in Ithaca, and Chemung ARC and the Association for the Visually Impaired, both in Elmira.

Wilson has been involved in numerous community efforts and organizations over the years and is a member of the Schuyler County Hall of Fame. He has served as Chair of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce and on various boards, including the American Red Cross, the Chemung-Schuyler-Tioga Board of Cooperative Educational Services, the Chemung-Schuyler-Steuben Workforce Investment Board, and the Schuyler County League of Women Voters, where he currently serves as president.

Wilson also served for a number of years as the Chair of the NYSARC Inc. Executive Directors Association and as a Board Member of the New York State Association of Community and Residential Agencies.

Wilson said that he is proud of the work done by The Arc and of the people that The Arc represents -- volunteers, employees and individuals and families supported by The Arc.

“The organization is in good financial health and is well known in the community and throughout the state for its supports and services," he said. "I believe the organization is well positioned to continue the great work that it does on a daily basis. I am leaving at a time when both the organization and I are in good health and I’m looking forward to a little relaxation, spending time with family and volunteering in the community.

"Although there are difficult fiscal times ahead, the organization is based in grassroots advocacy efforts by family members and people with developmental disabilities. These are passionate people who know how to speak up when times get tough.”

Photo in text: Jim Wilson (Photo provided)

Hospital offers falls-prevention screening

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, March 21 -- Each year, one in three seniors over the age of 65 experiences at least one fall. That statistic increases to one in two for seniors over the age of 80.

To help reduce these numbers and the injuries that result, Schuyler Hospital’s Physical Therapy Department is offering a free screening, “Staying on Your Feet: How to Keep Your Balance and Prevent Falls,” on Thursday, April 14 from 1-3 p.m.

During the screening, the hospital’s physical therapy specialists will focus on how to prevent falls, tips for home safety, and exercises to increase strength and flexibility.

The screening will be held at the Rehabilitation Services Department on the lower level of the hospital, 220 Steuben Street, Montour Falls.

Call (607) 535-8616 to reserve your timeslot. Wear comfortable clothing and footwear to complete a fall risk assessment.

Save the date for the next seminar: “Advance Directives – What You Need to Know,” on Thursday, May 19 from 2-3 p.m. in the Seneca View Conference Room.

Friends of the Village Take Out crowded the restaurant Sunday afternoon for a party after the restaurant had concluded its last day of business at 2 p.m.

The Village Take Out closes

ODESSA, March 21 -- Scores of area residents were on hand Sunday for an afternoon party at the Village Take Out restaurant marking the final day of the eatery after nearly 15 years in business.

The VTO building, located at 110 Main Street in Odessa, is being sold by its owners -- the restaurant's operators, Bob and Shelly Landon -- to Dandy Mini Mart. Dandy has a string of convenience stores throughout the Twin Tiers, including one next door to VTO.

While Dandy has not announced plans, indications are the VTO building -- with a history dating back to 1884 -- will be used for storage initially, and eventually razed.

Patrons young and old -- from toddlers to the elderly -- visited the VTO Sunday after the final day of business ended at 2 p.m. There were hugs for and from the Landons, and picture-taking, and eating. The restaurant provided pasta, salad, bread, cake and beverages.

"It's a celebration," said Bob Landon. "I'm going to miss this."

But at the same time, he said he is looking forward to possibly opening an auction business in a barn on his Tuttle Road property in the Town of Hector. And, he added, he is considering job offers.

Meanwhile, an auction of the restaurant contents is scheduled for Monday, March 28. Closing on the sale to Dandy is set for April 4th.

*****

Photos in text:

Top: Bob and Shelly Landon at Sunday's farewell celebration.

Bottom: There was plenty of food on hand, provided free of charge by the VTO.

Longtime VTO patron Bonnie Seeley writes an acrostic poem on the restaurant's menu board during Sunday afternoon's farewell party.

Hospital now offers Wi-Fi for visitors

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, March 18 -- Schuyler Hospital announced this week that free wireless services are now available for visitors, patients and residents.

Access is available throughout the hospital, as well as at the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility and the Montour Falls Primary Care Center.

Look for blue boxes at nurses’ stations and in waiting areas for log-in instructions.

For more information, contact the hospital at (607) 535-7121 or go to www.schuylerhospital.org

Students from around the state, including from the Watkins Glen, Odessa-Montour and Bradford high schools (above), attended the second day of the conference with members of the Southern Finger Lakes Women. (Photo provided by James Ayala)

SFLW members attend state conference

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, March 16 -- Members of the Southern Finger Lakes Women, a chapter of New York State Women, Inc., attended the organization’s State Winter Board Conference at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel on Friday through Sunday, March 4-6.

The theme was “Communication-Leadership-Networking -- Together Everyone Achieves More.” Participants conducted the business of the organization and attended professional development workshops. Judy Phillips, Watkins Glen Mayor, and Ann Tuttle, Professor of Management at Keuka College, were guest speakers along with Mary Ellen Morgan, President of New York State Women, Inc.

On Saturday, the group held a Youth Leadership Reality Workshop for high school girls from across the state, of which 13 were girls from Watkins Glen, Odessa-Montour and Campbell-Savona Central schools. The workshop presented real-life simulations in which the participants selected a career and made lifestyle choices. The girls also learned about interviewing techniques, proper dress attire for the workplace and legislative issues. Laurie Joslin from Unlimited Coaching Solutions, Inc., provided a 2-hour interactive presentation, "The Leader in You," to the girls in the afternoon.

New York State Women, Inc., provides members with professional development, networking and career advancement opportunities. Its mission is to achieve equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education and information. For more information about the Southern Finger Lakes Women, contact Gloria Hutchings at (607) 594-2489 or JoAnne Krolak at (607) 732-1171.

Schuyler Transit expands Dial-A-Ride

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, March 11 -- Schuyler County Transit’s Dial-A-Ride transportation service to destinations within Watkins Glen and Montour Falls is now available to residents in all areas of Schuyler County.

Dial-A-Ride transportation service to Watkins Glen and Montour Falls was formerly available only to persons who completed an application and qualified for the service under the Americans with Disabilities Act or through a contract agency.

Riders are required to make a trip reservation with Schuyler County Transit by calling 607- 535-3555 at least one day in advance. General questions regarding available transportation services may be directed to Schuyler County Mobility Manager Amber Simmons at Schuyler County Transit.

Dial-A-Ride service is available on Mondays and Fridays between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.; Tuesdays between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; and Wednesdays between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Fares range from $2 to $4 for each boarding depending on pick-up location.

“We are extremely pleased with the initial response to public transit in the County. In response to increased demand and the demonstration that there is a need for additional service to areas in Schuyler County outside of the villages, Schuyler County Transit is opening its Dial-A-Ride service to all county residents without prequalification,” said Tim O’Hearn, County Administrator. “A planning committee will continue to advise us on existing needs and additional opportunities for coordinated services.”

Paratransit transportation service for individuals with disabilities to medical offices and facilities in Corning, the Elmira area, and Ithaca for non-emergency medical services continues to be available to Schuyler County residents who qualify as having a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act or who are approved through a contract agency.

A prequalifying application is still required for these services. Applications for eligibility may be picked up at 203 Twelfth Street in Watkins Glen, at the Schuyler County Office for the Aging at the Human Service Complex in Montour Falls, at senior housing complexes in Schuyler County and on the Schuyler County Transit website, www.schuylercountytransit.org.

For further information or to make a reservation for Dial-A-Ride, call 607-535-3555.

Hospital hosting brunch for area realtors

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, March 10 -- Schuyler Hospital is inviting area realtors interested in learning more about the hospital – including what’s new and improved -- to its annual Realtors Brunch.

The brunch will be held Tuesday, March 29 at 10 a.m. in the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility Training Room.

While the program is free, RSVP’s are requested by calling (607) 210-1950 or emailing benjaminm@schuylerhospital.org by March 15.

“Along with schools, safety and cost of living, healthcare is one of the subjects most asked about by potential movers to Schuyler County and surrounding areas,” said Rick Stelzer, President/CEO for Schuyler Hospital. “So we want to give realtors as much information about healthcare here as we can.”

Realtors unable to attend the brunch may still request an information packet or packets for themselves and their staffs.

Eggs at Eight focus: Staff motivation

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, March 8 -- The Business and Education Committee of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce will host its next small-business roundtable discussion, Eggs at Eight, on Monday, March 14 at 8:00 a.m. at Classic Chef’s.

The topic will be staff motivation, particularly in the winter and during stressful economic times. The discussion will also cover ways to encourage, motivate, and inspire an organizational team. Guest speaker will be Jim Frame, the Odessa-Montour Central School District superintendent.

The cost to attend 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, contact the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce at 607-535-4300 or email Katie Strawser at katie@watkinsglenchamber.com.

Grand Prix Fun Park has new owners

Former NHL player leads group; new racetrack planned

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, March 8 -- Former National Hockey League Player Jason Bonsignore of Rochester heads up a new ownership group that has taken over the Seneca Grand Prix Family Fun Park on Route 414.

The park, built in 1987, operated for nearly 20 years until problems led to its closure for two seasons. Two years ago it was purchased by a Horseheads businessman who renovated much of the property and reopened last summer. Bonsignore's group acquired the 18-acre parcel from him.

The property houses a miniature golf course along with two go-kart tracks, bumper boats, an arcade and pavilion center with picnic areas, and a volleyball court.

The new owners plan construction of a new outdoor sports stadium that will feature an oval dirt racetrack for motorcycles, ATV's and karts. The stadium, to be known as The Seneca Speedway Stadium, will primarily feature European Speedway Motorcycle Racing -- hugely popular in Europe and California -- on Fridays under the lights at 8 p.m.

With the close proximity of the newly planned track to Watkins Glen International, Bonsignore -- who saw four stints in the NHL with the Edmonton Oilers and the Tampa Bay Lightning in the late 1990s -- hopes to attract car-racing fans over to see the sport of Speedway.

The new ownership will call the park Seneca Grand Prix Golf and Games. The Seneca Speedway Stadium portion of it will also be available as a multi-purpose venue, which could host events such as rodeos, horse shows or an occasional concert. The owners hope to install bleacher seating for at least 2,000 spectators this year.

Bonsignore said he also hopes to raise funds to build the first-ever Speedway Motorcycle Racing museum in the U.S. at the venue. It would display 50 or more classic and rare speedway motorcycles along with a large collection of racing memorabilia, and would likely include a few other machines from motocross and other motorcycle sports. The estimated cost is $45,000.

The Park is tentatively set to open in early May. The owners hope that the racetrack will be ready for June.

Construction of the new stadium should begin when the weather breaks this spring. The owners are seeking advertising partners, sponsors and construction assistance or trade. Anyone interested may call 585 723-9746 or email eastcoastspeedway@hotmail.com.

Women's group sets monthly meeting

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, March 7 -- The Southern Finger Lakes Women will hold their monthly meeting at The Harvest Café, 224 W. Main Street, Montour Falls, on March 21st at 6:00 p.m.

In honor of Women’s History Month, performers from the Lake Country Players will be present dressed as women in history from 100 years ago. They will mingle “in character” during the reception time and then present a small performance.

Women from the community ae invited to attend. Cost is $20 for the dinner meeting. Reservations must be made by Sunday, March 13 by calling Patti Butler at (607) 535-2275 (leave a message if there is no answer) or by emailing her at pll2@cornell.edu.

The Southern Finger Lakes Women is a chapter of New York State Women, Inc., and meets monthly to discuss issues relevant to working women.

Entrance side of Logan Ridge's primary building.

Getting a look at Logan Ridge

HECTOR, March 4 -- An open house held Thursday at Logan Ridge Estates by Cabins to Castles On Seneca Real Estate showcased that property for a steady stream of visitors.

The 23.5-acre property, with two buildings covering 24,054 square feet, is situated on a hillside with a view of Seneca Lake to the west. The buildings were constructed in 1977 by Edward Dalrymple as a residential home, and purchased in 2001 by Mr. Dalrymple's Ironwood Corp., which converted it to a retail winery, tasting facility and restaurant, the Logan Ridge Winery and Restaurant.

Mr. Dalrymple died in 2002, and winery and restaurant operations ceased in 2005. The property was purchased in 2007 by Logan Ridge Estates, a partnership which resumed operations, utilizing the site as a wedding and banquet facility under the Logan Ridge brand name.

It is for sale now, with an asking price of $1.3 million -- which didn't seem to limit the number of visitors to the open house. The event featured guided or self-motivated tours, wine provided by J.R. Dill Winery, Bagley's Poplar Ridge Winery and Miles Winery, and sandwiches, shrimp, cheeses, cakes and punch.

Tables also contained literature on other properties for sale through the Cabins to Castles firm (cabinstocastlesre.com).

Photos in text: Tunnel leading from the main building to the property's second building (above), which contains two apartments and a garage/storage area.

Thursday's open house. Food and beverages were available.

Red Cat Cellars makes its 1st Red Cat wine

Special to The Odessa File

NAPLES, March 3 -- The first bottle of Red Cat wine from Hazlitt's Red Cat Cellars in Naples, NY, was produced March 1st.

The facility, formerly the historic Widmer Winery, was purchased by Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards, Hector, from Constellation Brands in 2010. After completing a vast array of updates and capital improvements, the Hazlitt family began pressing grapes at the Naples complex during the 2010 harvest.

Now, with fully operational bottling capability, the newly christened Hazlitt's Red Cat Cellars begins another era of wine production in the town of Naples.

"We are very pleased to be up and running in Naples," said Hazlitt's Red Cat Cellars co-owner Doug Hazlitt. "This facility allows us to continue to produce the highest quality wines while keeping up with the increasing demand for Red Cat and our core brands."

Photo in text: Winery owners Doug Hazlitt and Leigh Hazlitt Triner display the first bottle of Red Cat produced at the new Hazlitt's Red Cat Cellars in Naples, NY. (Photo provided)

Ryan Mosher to be WGI's senior director of sales and new business development

Patricia Freedman Promoted, and Ryan Pedersen Joins Marketing Team

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, March 2 -- Watkins Glen International will be welcoming back one of its own as Ryan Mosher has been hired as the new senior director of sales and new business development.

Mosher, a Watkins Glen native, started his professional career at The Glen in 2002 before moving on to positions with International Speedway Corporation (ISC), parent company of WGI, and sister facility Chicagoland Speedway.

Other staffing changes at The Glen include Patricia Freedman being promoted to a new role in the ticketing department and Ryan Pedersen joining the marketing staff.

“Ryan Mosher has proven himself to be a valuable asset to our entire company and we are thrilled to bring him back to lead our sales team,” said Michael Printup, president of WGI. “His rise through the ranks clearly demonstrates his abilities, and the knowledge he has of Upstate New York will prove invaluable as we head into the 2011 season. We are also very proud that we can provide new opportunities for young professionals such as Freedman and Pedersen and we look forward to helping them continue their development.”

“As a Schuyler County native, I cannot express my excitement about returning to Watkins Glen International,” said Mosher. “I started my career here in 2002 and while I have thoroughly enjoyed my time moving throughout ISC, there is something very satisfying about coming home. I am very grateful for the opportunities that have been presented to me over the last nine years as they provided the experience that has prepared me for this new leadership position at my home track.”

Mosher started at the legendary road course in June 2002 as marketing coordinator following his graduation from St. Bonaventure University with a B.B.A. in Business Administration. His ascension at The Glen was quick and continuous as he was promoted to corporate marketing coordinator in October 2003, followed by a move to corporate sales executive in July 2004, and then senior account executive in October 2005. In April 2006, Mosher accepted the position of marketing partnerships manager for ISC in Daytona Beach, FL. He continued his professional progression with a promotion to director of partnership sales in August 2009 before moving to Chicago, IL, to take over as the director of corporate partnerships for the sales arm of ISC in the Midwest region and Chicagoland Speedway.

Mosher’s transition to his new role at The Glen is expected to take place gradually over the next several weeks and be completed prior to Opening Weekend, April 16-17.

Freedman, formerly the ticket services supervisor, has been promoted to ticket office manager. The Southside High School graduate and Niagara University alum started at The Glen in June 2006 as a seasonal event gate staff supervisor. She joined the WGI team full-time as the ticket services supervisor in May 2007. In her new role, Freedman will supervise the ticket office during the race season, act as the liaison between WGI and the ISC Call Center in Daytona Beach, manage all ticket fulfillments, and hire and manage event gate staff.

Pedersen joins WGI as the new consumer marketing manager following his graduation from East Carolina University in May 2009 with a B.S. in Communications. The responsibilities for his new role include developing and managing the creation of collateral marketing pieces, assisting with the purchasing, designing, and sizing of print ads, and working with The Glen’s advertising agency on both brand and project development. The Corning, NY, resident first came to WGI as a media center volunteer for all major events during the 2007 season. He returned as a marketing intern in 2010 to help run the mobile marketing program known as the “Racing, Only Twisted” Tour. While Pedersen was born in Newark, Delaware, he grew up and attended school in Bath, NY, and graduated from Bath-Haverling Central High School.

Photo in text: Ryan Mosher (File photo)

Village Take Out to close its doors

ODESSA, Feb. 27 -- The Village Take Out restaurant at 110 Main Street in Odessa is going out of business on March 20. It has been sold to Dandy Mini Mart, which operates a store next door.

VTO owners Bob and Shelly Landon said they have signed off on a purchase agreement with Dandy, and that the closing is scheduled for April 4.

The Landons, who have operated the VTO for almost 15 years, say fatigue and the economy have combined to make this a good time to leave.

"I need a break from the business," said Bobby, who explained that he hopes to open an auction house in a barn on property near the family home on Tuttle Road in the Town of Hector. And Shelly, who has a food service job that provides medical insurance for the family, is "excited. It means we'll get out from under the debt here."

She said she and her husband have actually looked toward the possibility of selling the business and building for several years, but only recently received an offer that met their needs -- at a time when rising gas and wholesale-food prices, an increased assessment (from $38,000 to $219,000) and dwindling disposable income are hampering their profit potential.

The Landons said they will be closing for business at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 20, and then holding a party that afternoon for invited regulars. An auction of the restaurant contents is scheduled for March 28.

The building, which Shelly said dates back to 1884, has served in a number of capacities, including as a grocery store. It has apartments on the second floor.

The Landons, who employ about 10 workers, said Dandy will likely use the structure at first for storage before eventually razing it as the company expands the operation at its adjacent store, at 102 Main Street. Dandy has nearly 60 stores in Pennsylvania and New York.

Photo in text: The Village Take-Out restaurant.

Chiropractor Adams is retiring

BURDETT, Feb. 26 -- Chiropractor Carol Sue Adams is retiring after 32 years in business.

Adams, who has had an office in Burdett for several years after practicing out of the Primary Care Center facility in Montour Falls, says she is, first of all, "taking a year to play. I will be leaving for Biloxi, Mississippi for a month to do a Habitat house, then back here for two months to finish up the books for the office, then to Yellowstone for July and August, then to Ireland for a bike tour, then hopefully to Flagstaff, Arizona to volunteer at the Indian Reservation Clinic there for the winter.

"I will eventually settle near my children in Washington, D.C., but not until I have wandered for a while. My bucket list is about 500 pages long."

Adams has sold her office and adjoining house at 4059 Lake Ave. to Dr. Gary Carr, a native of Geneva and a 2004 graduate of New York Chiropractic College.

"He has been practicing up in the Thousand Islands area and wants to come home," she said. "He did 10 years in the Navy prior to Chiro school, and is a down-to-earth, caring guy."

Women's Health welcomes new provider

Special to The Odessa File

ITHACA, Feb. 22 -- Cayuga Women’s Health has announced a new addition to its office – nurse practitioner Hannah Cramer, MSN, CRNP.

Cramer completed the Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Program and earned her Masters degree at the University of Pennsylvania. She has 10 years of direct nursing care experience in the women’s health arena. She is new to the Ithaca area, having worked across the United States, from Boston to San Diego.

Her special clinical interests include adolescent gynecology and genital dermatology. She is a member of the Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society for Nursing. Her personal interests include cooking, hiking, and singing.

She is accepting new patients, who can contact her at (607) 273-0250 or by Fax at 273-2920.

Photo in text: Hannah Cramer (Photo provided)

SFLW to host statewide women's group

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Feb. 8 -- The Southern Finger Lakes Women, a chapter of New York State Women, Inc. (NYSWI), will welcome members to the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel for NYSWI’s Winter Board Meeting and Youth Leadership Conference from Friday, March 4 through Sunday, March 6.

The theme is “Communication-Leadership- Networking -- Together Everyone Achieves More.” Participants will conduct the business of the organization, and on Saturday present a Youth Leadership Reality Workshop for high school youth from across the state. The workshop will present real-life simulations in which the participants select a career and make lifestyle choices. The youth will also be offered the opportunity to meet and interact with members who represent a variety of backgrounds and careers.

New York State Women, Inc. provides members with professional development, networking,
and career advancement resources. Its mission is to achieve equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education and information. The Southern Finger Lakes Women
Chapter meets on the 3rd Monday of each month. For more information about the chapter, contact Gloria Hutchings at (607) 594-2489 or JoAnne Krolak at (607) 732-1171.

Pasta Night fund-raiser date changed

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Feb. 7 -- The Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary has moved its scheduled Pasta Night fund-raiser from Monday, March 7 to Monday, March 14 at the Montour Falls Moose Lodge on State Route 14. The event will run from 4:30-7 p.m.

The Watkins-Montour Lions Club and the Moose Lodge will once again host the annual dinner for the benefit of the Auxiliary.

Tickets may be purchased at the Schuyler Hospital gift shop or at the door the night of the dinner. They are $6 for adults, and $3 for children.

The menu includes pasta, meatballs and sausage, bread, salad, beverage and brownie. A cash bar will be available, as well as take-outs.

Proceeds from the dinner will help fund the 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.

WGI promotes 3 on marketing team

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Feb. 2 -- Watkins Glen International has promoted three members of its marketing team: Brett Powell and Ryan Lake, both Horseheads High School graduates, and Mike Eckert, an Elmira Free Academy graduate.

Their promotions take effect immediately. Powell is entering his seventh season at WGI while Lake and Eckert are about to begin their sixth.

Powell, of Ithaca, has been promoted from director of fan experience to senior director of marketing and fan experience. In his new role, he will oversee consumer integration, public communications, and the fan experience at The Glen. He will continue to be responsible for many special events at the track, including concerts during event weekends, and oversee the Finger Lakes Wine Festival, scheduled for July 16-18. 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, special events and partnerships manager in 2008, and director of fan experience in 2010.

Lake, formerly the public relations manager, is now senior manager of public relations. In his new role, he will manage and supervise all aspects of the public relations department, develop the year-long public relations plan for the track, manage the media center during event weekends, act as the liaison between WGI and the media, and assist Powell in other areas of communications. The Ithaca College alum started at The Glen in June 2006 as media relations coordinator following his graduation from the Park School of Communications at IC in May 2005.

Eckert moves from his former position as corporate sales executive to senior account executive. In his new role, Eckert will be responsible for developing new members of the corporate sales team, handling corporate hospitality sales and coordination, selling new corporate hospitality, group tickets and partnerships, and managing current corporate partnerships. He was hired as marketing coordinator in May 2006 following his graduation from Keuka College, and was promoted to corporate sales executive in 2007.

Eggs at Eight focus: Social networking

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Feb. 1 -- The Business and Education Committee of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce will host its next small-business roundtable discussion, Eggs at Eight, at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 8 at Classic Chef’s between Watkins Glen and Montour Falls.

Focusing on a new twist in modern technology and communication trends, the talk will deal with how companies can manage the risk created by social networking. The FBI says that every year billions of dollars are lost to foreign and domestic competitors who deliberately gather economic intelligence in U.S. businesses. Social media outlets, such as Facebook and Twitter, are making it easier for employees to unwittingly share business information and therefore increase risk.

The committee is urging chamber, community and business members to attend. Gregg Lantz, owner of GPL Integrated IT, LLC will provide a review of some of the methods used by businesses to protect confidential information and safeguard reputations. The group will also look at corporate policies and procedures as well as new technologies used to enforce these policies.

The cost to attend the 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, contact the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce at 607-535-4300 or email Katie Strawser at katie@watkinsglenchamber.com.

Hospital Auxiliary raises scholarship funds

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Feb. 1 -- Just before the new year, the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary sponsored a gathering to help give the gift of education to those pursuing healthcare careers.

Auxilians Carol Bower and Joanne McLaine co-sponsored a cocktail party to raise funds for the Auxiliary’s annual scholarship program – in which three $1,000 scholarships are awarded to two high school graduates planning to attend school to pursue a healthcare career and to one hospital employee seeking to expand his or her training.

Over 50 people attended the gathering, which raised enough money to fund one of the three scholarships, plus a little bit extra.

“We are thrilled at the turnout, and with everyone’s generosity toward the scholarship program,” said Joanne McLaine, former Auxiliary President. “We are proud to support our current and future healthcare workers.”

Next up for the Auxiliary – a bus trip to the Philadelphia International Flower Show in March, including an overnight stay and sightseeing. Spots are still available, but reservations must be made no later than February 2.

Then – save the date for the Auxiliary’s annual Spaghetti Dinner, sponsored by the Watkins-Montour Lions Club. The fundraiser will be held Monday, March 7 at the Montour Moose Lodge.

For more information, go to www.schuylerhospital.org.

The Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel. (Photo provided)

Harbor Hotel earns 4-Diamond status

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Jan. 27 -- The Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel has been designated a Four Diamond Hotel by the American Automobile Association (AAA). This designation makes the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel the top-rated hotel in the Finger Lakes Wine Country region of New York.

According to the AAA Diamond Rating System, the Four Diamond award promises the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel is “Upscale in all areas. Progressively more refined and stylish. Physical attributes reflect enhanced quality throughout. Fundamental hallmarks include extensive amenities and a high degree of hospitality, service and attention to detail.”

Located at the southern end of Seneca Lake, the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel opened in July 2008. The $14 million hotel features 104 first-class accommodations, more than 4,200 square feet of conference and meeting space, upscale dining in the Blue Point Grille, and lakeside dining on the Patio. Hotel guests, AAA says, can expect upscale amenities including nightly turn-down service, an indoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi, a fully equipped fitness center, high speed internet access throughout the hotel and a professional concierge.

The hotel is located on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail and is near the Keuka Lake Wine Trail and Cayuga Lake Wine Trail. The hotel is just down the road from the popular Watkins Glen State Park and but a few miles from the famed Watkins Glen International racetrack.

The Finger Lakes has been named a Top Ten Value Destination in 2011 by Sherman’s Travel, and the World’s Most Beautiful Wine Region by Budget Travel. Watkins Glen is -- as of this writing -- ranked the number one place to visit in the world in a poll being conducted on the New York Times website.

The hotel is owned by Seneca Lake LLC, a joint venture between Hart Hotels Inc. and Peter Krog Corp., and operated by Hart Hotels. Hart Hotels also owns The Holiday Inn Ithaca and the Inn at Finger Lakes, along with several hotels in the Buffalo area and a four-star hotel in Portland, Maine.

For more information on the Harbor Hotel, visit www.WatkinsGlenHarborHotel.com and Hart Hotels at www.HartHotels.com

Photo in text: The Harbor Hotel staff and management. David Hart, owner of Hart Hotels and the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, is holding the Four Diamond Award (second row, on the left). Peter Krog, developer/business partner, is in the third row, on the left. Miranda Polmanteer, Schuyler County Tourism Promotion Agent, is front left. (Photo provided)

Ag Advocacy Program to host luncheons

Special to The Odessa File

SCHUYLER COUNTY, Jan. 26 -- All Chemung and Schuyler County farmers are being invited to give their input on the future direction of the new Agriculture Advocate position of the Agriculture Advocacy Coalition (of Chemung and Schuyler Counties) at two free luncheons.

The first will be held at the Horseheads American Legion, 71 Old Ithaca Road, Horseheads, on Feb. 9 from 12 noon-1 p.m. The second will be in Room 120 at the Schuyler County Human Services Complex, 323 Owego St., Montour Falls on Feb. 10 from 12 noon -1 p.m.

The program is currently being funded by the donations of local farmers as well as by the Chemung and Schuyler Farm Bureaus and the Soil and Water Conservation Districts of both counties.

These initial outreach meetings will enable farmers to discuss the goals and activities of the program, and to suggest what direction it should take.

The basic goal of the Coalition, says its organizers, is to increase the understanding of agriculture by the people of Chemung and Schuyler Counties so they better appreciate its unique and valuable role in our society.

“If we want consumers to support agriculture, we as farmers must tell our story,” said Mark Watts, District Manager of the Chemung County Soil and Water Conservation District and a dairy/beef farmer from Pine City.

Some planned program activities include work with local schools to incorporate agriculture into existing curriculum, possible after-school programs, farm tours, media coverage of agriculture, and a website and Facebook page.

There is no cost for the luncheon. For more information or to RSVP by Jan. 31, contact Alicia Dickinson, Agriculture Advocate, Chemung County SWCD at (607) 796-2216, or e-mail her at AmdAgEdu@gmail.com.

Hospital blood drive set for Feb. 21

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Jan. 23 -- Schuyler Hospital is sponsoring a Red Cross Blood Drive from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday, Feb. 21 at the Seneca View Activities Room.

While all blood types are needed, Type O negative is especially in high demand because it can be transfused to patients with any blood type, especially in emergency situations. Type O negative donors can make the difference between an adequate blood supply and a summer shortage, officials say.

Donors can plan on stopping in, or sign up today. Contact the Schuyler Hospital Lab at (607) 535-7121 ext. 2207.

Schuyler Hospital opens new unit, works on Watkins Glen offices, September Hill

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Jan. 17 -- Schuyler Hospital recently opened a relocated and renovated monitored beds unit, with new equipment to service intensive care and critical care patients.

The monitored beds unit is now located in the southeast corner of the hospital’s Medical/Surgical Unit.

Work is also proceeding on two additional projects.

In November, Schuyler Hospital broke ground on renovations to its September Hill Women’s Center.

The project to expand and upgrade women’s health services at September Hill is being made possible through the 2009 and 2010 Schuyler Health Foundation’s Family of Friends Campaigns.

Renovations include a 1,400-square-foot addition and a 1,070-square-foot renovation of existing space. Clinic space will be expanded, allowing both of the Hospital’s OB-GYN’s, Dr. William Saks, and Dr. Zarmina Aman, to provide services at the renovated location. Additional women’s health services are also being planned. The location, near the hospital, boasts a spectacular view of Seneca Lake.

Renovations are expected to be completed by early February.

The hospital is also working with a developer and the Village of Watkins Glen to potentially bring physicians’ offices and a walk-in clinic to the former Dollar General property in the Tops Plaza in Watkins Glen.

Glen Industries Sales Rep Joe Mullaney explains to local businesses the range of services available in the area of co-packing. (Photo provided)

Meeting subject: Glen Industries' co-packing

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Jan. 11 -- More than 40 people attended a meeting hosted by Glen Industries on Monday, Jan. 10 to learn how Glen Industries can work with area farms, individuals and other businesses to develop, process, and package value-added food products.

Glen Industries sales representative Joe Mullaney provided information about the organization’s food co-packing services and how the company can assist area farms, restaurants, wineries and other existing businesses or individuals in transforming a recipe into a profitable food product that can be sold at established businesses, food shows, farmer’s markets, and retail stores.

Glen Industries boasts a certified kitchen and packing facility, commercial equipment, and professional staff. In addition, Glen Industries has the capabilities to assist customers with schedule-process services through Cornell University and purchasing bulk ingredients, and can also make referrals for label manufacturers and packaging suppliers to its customers.

“The Finger Lakes region is a great location for farm businesses to be co-packing and selling a food product,” said Joe Mullaney. “Many organizations and businesses are promoting agritourism in this region, and that marketing is bringing in tourists from around the world. There is a lot of opportunity here for businesses.” Mullaney also explained that when individuals come up with a great food product, they need the time to plan and market that product, not plan, market and produce the item. That’s where Mullaney says Glen Industries can become a great partner.

Glen Industries has offered food co-packing services for a number of years as part of The Arc of Schuyler’s vocational training program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The company co-packs low-acid and acidified foods such as sauces, dressings and oils as well as dry mixes.

Glen Industries has co-packed products for many local businesses and companies in New York State, including Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards of Hector, Spread Health Foods in Staten Island, and Krista’s Kitchen, Inc. in Lackawanna.

Many attendees at the meeting currently operate a business or are producing food products. “It’s great to be able to work with organizations in the community like Glen Industries and Cornell Cooperative Extension to produce our locally made product,” said Karen Reisinger, owner of Reisinger’s Apple Country. “We recently started co-packing a product with Glen Industries and it has saved us a tremendous amount of time. We are very pleased.”

The meeting was co-sponsored by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Schuyler County and Schuyler County Farm Bureau. Attendees were also able to hear from and ask questions of Elizabeth Sullivan, a representative from the NYS Food Venture Center at Cornell University.

Glen Industries is the industrial and vocational training division of The Arc of Schuyler, providing food co-packing, auto detailing, business, and janitorial services in addition to employing individuals with developmental disabilities and preparing them for careers in the community. To learn more about Glen Industries or food co-packing services, call 607-535-6934 or visit www.arcofschuyler.org.

Photo in text: A variety of local products co-packed by Glen Industries. (Photo provided)

Women's group bestows gifts on seniors

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Dec. 29 -- The Southern Finger Lakes Women (SFLW), a Chapter of New York State Women, Inc., presented handmade slippers and large print books to the residents of The Falls Home in Montour Falls for Christmas.

The Falls Home is an assisted living facility for 92 persons. It provides residential care, activities, meals, recreation and health monitoring.

The slippers were part of a special surprise Christmas stocking for each resident. The books will be added to the residents’ library.

New York State Women, Inc., 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. The Southern Finger Lakes Women Chapter meets on the third Monday of each month.

For more information about the group, contact Gloria Hutchings at (607) 594-2489 or JoAnne Krolak at (607) 732-1171. For more information about the slipper project, contact Sue Gigliotti at (607) 535-2039.

Photo in text: From left: JoAnne Krolak of the Southern Finger Lakes Women Public Relations Committee; Mary Gauck, Activities Director at The Falls Home; and Sue Gigliotti, Chair of the slipper project.

Glen gets grant for Historic District study

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Dec. 29 -- The Preservation League of New York State and the New York Council on the Arts has awarded the Village of Watkins Glen grant funding to assist in its pursuit of a Historic District along downtown Franklin Street and Fourth Street.

The project will provide a comprehensive survey of the village's historic commercial core (approximately 40 properties) and preparation of an application for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places.

The pursuit of a Historic District is a joint venture between the Village of Watkins Glen, the Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development (SCOPED) and the Schuyler County Historical Society. The survey and application are being prepared by Johnson Schmidt & Associates, an architectural firm located in Corning.

According to SCOPED Executive Director Kelsey Jones, "The involved parties hope that a
historic designation will not only bring attention to the distinct architecture of the downtown but also give the building owners the opportunity to pursue historic preservation tax credits and grants to maintain and fully utilize their properties."

A presentation of the award will be made at 1 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 13 in the Keuka Room of the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel.

Brian Ferguson named Assistant Distiller

Special to The Odessa File

HECTOR, Dec. 24 -- Brian Ferguson has been named Assistant Distiller at Finger Lakes Distilling, the firm has announced.

Ferguson will be working directly with Master Distiller Thomas McKenzie in all areas of production for the distillery.

“We’re thrilled to have Brian come on board,” said company President Brian McKenzie. “He will help us expand our capacity and has already shown a knack for the distilling process.”

Ferguson is a recent graduate of the Smeal College of Business at Penn State University, where he earned an undergraduate degree in Business Management. He spent this past summer working in various capacities at the distillery -- in sales, production, and the tasting room.

Finger Lakes Distilling is the region’s only stand-alone distillery. Located in the heart of wine country, the distillery produces a wide range of distilled spirits – vodka, gin, whiskies, brandies, and liqueurs – from locally grown fruit and grains. The distillery’s products are now sold by over 200 retailers throughout New York State, as well as at the distillery’s tasting room, overlooking Seneca Lake.

Finger Lakes Distilling has been mentioned in several national publications, including the New York Times, Washington Post, Food & Wine and Martha Stewart’s Living Magazine. The company’s gin, Seneca Drums Gin, was voted Best New York State Spirit at the Food & Wine Classic.

More information about the distillery can be found at www.fingerlakesdistilling.com.

Photo in text: Master Distiller Thomas McKenzie, left, and Assistant Distiller Brian Ferguson operating the still at Finger Lakes Distilling. (Photo provided)

Wickham named V.P. at Hazlitt

HECTOR, Dec. 21 -- Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards has hired Frederick B. Wickham as Vice President of Creative Marketing.

Wickham comes to Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards from Howell, Liberatore and Wickham, a full service marketing and communications firm in Elmira, New York where he served as President and Creative Director. Prior to that he was President of Canasta Design Works, Ltd., a firm that specialized in Wine and Tourism Marketing.

“We are very excited to have Fred join our team.” said John Keeler, Hazlitt President and CEO. “His unique skill set combining creativity and expertise in corporate communications and management will certainly augment our team as the winery takes its marketing efforts to the next level.”

A native of Hector, Wickham earned his degree at Syracuse University and has lived and worked in Boston, New York and Washington D.C. He has advised and created marketing and packaging solutions for clients throughout the United States. His work has appeared in many major publications and has received numerous national and international awards.

Photo in text: Fred Wickham (Photo provided)

Schuyler Hospital will share services with Arnot Health

Not a merger, spokesman stresses; Schuyler remains independent

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Dec. 12 -- Schuyler Hospital and Arnot Ogden Medical Center have announced that they have entered into a prospective Shared Services arrangement.

The agreement involves both facilities working together to provide operating efficiencies and enhanced revenues. In addition, by working closely with Arnot, Schuyler Hospital hopes to provide a more complete range of quality medical services for the Schuyler County community, officials said..

Schuyler Hospital implemented its first project with Arnot Health in 2007, in order to establish a Dialysis Unit to serve Schuyler County residents. The unit opened in 2010 at Schuyler Hospital in Montour Falls, and is operated by Arnot staff.

Other shared services added in 2010 include Arnot providing Information Technology Services management, staff PICC line placement training, and cardiology consultation and coverage for Schuyler Hospital. A number of additional initiatives have been identified and are in the process of being evaluated and implemented, officials noted.

One spokesman stressed that the Shared Services arrangement is in no way a merger; that Schuyler Hospital has been independent for nearly a century and will continue that way into the foreseeable future.

John Senka set to embark on new chapter in his life

Retirement looms at 63; Florida his immediate plan

ODESSA, Dec. 11 -- John Senka, president of The Senka Agency in Odessa, is planning to retire from the insurance business at the end of the month -- a move that both excites him and fills him with trepidation.

"Lots of trepidation," he said Friday during an Open House that had been going on all week at the agency. "I'm not a person who likes change. Most of all, I will miss my customers, many of whom are more like family and friends."

Senka has been in Odessa since 1983, and head of the agency since Bob Carpenter retired in 1984. The next president will be Anne Yessman, who has worked in the agency for 23 years, and before that had insurance experience in New Jersey and Elmira.

"I had no idea when I was 62 that I would be retiring now," said Senka. "But people told me I would know when it was time, and one morning I woke up and knew it was."

The timing is good, he says.

"I'm at the top of my game. The agency is in great shape, and I have a lot of confidence in Anne and Emily (Kerns, who also works there). My heatlh is good, too. It's time to go out when I can do some things."

Senka, who served his country in Vietnam, said one determining factor in his retirement decision was "the rapid death rate of Vietnam vets." Many, he said -- far above the national average -- "are not making it to 70."

He and his wife Sandy plan three months in the Florida Keys starting in January, and some travel.

But he won't be staying completely away from the business.

"I've done some financial planning on the side," he said, "and I'll keep those accounts. And I'll probably do some consulting work for Anne."

And if that's not enough, his eldest son, John, 38, has an insurance agency he built from scratch in Bath. "If I really miss the business," said John Sr., "I can help him."

Senka came here after a military tour in Vietnam that he chronicled in an autobiography, Wounded Body -- Healing Spirit, and after insurance stops in Hornell and Dansville. He joined Bob Carpenter's agency in Odessa, creating the Carpenter & Senka Agency, and then became president upon Carpenter's retirement.

He will be leaving the area at the same time as his youngest son, Jeff, 29, a hair stylist who has been successful in an Odessa salon he opened earlier this year. Jeff is heading to New York City at the end of the year to work in a larger salon.

The Senkas also have a grown daughter, Debbie Ames, who lives on South Hill outside Odessa.

John and Sandy Senka have put their house up for sale, and were selling off -- and giving away -- items this past week. Assuming the house sells after they depart for the South, they will still have a small house on County Route 14 in which to stay when they return for visits. Son Jeff has been occupying the building.

They also have vacation property near Wayland that they will be utilizing in the warmer months.

The Senka Agency will retain that name, at least for the immediate future, according to Anne Yessman. The business is part of the Iroquois Insurance Group, a corporation of which Senka and Yessman are shareholders. Senka owns the business building, and will continue to do so.

The agency itself dates back to 1929, when it was started by Harvey Couch. He was succeeded as agency head by Dick Smith, who was followed by Bob Carpenter and then John Senka. And, soon, Anne Yessman.

Photos in text:

Top: John Senka relaxes in his office and talks about the past and future.

Middle: Decoration above the entrance to Senka's insurance agency office.

Bottom: Anne Yessman, who will run the agency upon John's retirement.

The ribbon falls away after being cut by Mayor Judy Phillips and Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce President Rebekah LaMoreaux. From left: Caryl Sutterby, Carole Pierce, Marianne Shoemaker, Mayor Phillips, LaMoreaux, Bev Stamp and Stacey Husted.

Watkins Glen Promotions celebrates its latest home

Open House, ribbon-cutting held; merchandise touted

WATKINS GLEN, Dec. 10 -- Watkins Glen Promotions, a volunteer organization devoted to showcasing Schuyler County through crowd-pleasing events, held an Open House and ribbon-cutting ceremony Thursday night at its headquarters at 700 N. Franklin St. in Watkins Glen.

The organization, previously housed in a corner of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce building, actually moved to its latest locale a year ago.

But Watkins Glen Promotions treasurer Stacey Husted said the group felt Thursday was a good time "to let people know we're here," as well as to tell them "we're not just promoting festivals and the area, but selling merchandise, too."

Among the merchandise are t-shirts with local themes, sweatshirts, hats, canvas bags, water bottles, magnets and Finger Lakes postcards.

Watkins Glen Promotions is best known for the events it spearheads: the Harvest Festival on Columbus Day weekend in Montour Falls, the Waterfront Festival in June in Watkins Glen, the Grand Prix Festival in September in Watkins Glen, and the Watkins Glen Village Christmas in early December.

The open house, with cookies, punch and water available for visitors, drew a steady stream of people for more than two hours, and featured a 6 p.m. ribbon-cutting preceded by remarks from Watkins Glen Mayor Judy Phillips and Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce President Rebekah LaMoreaux.

****

Photos in text:

Top: Some of the merchandise available for sale at the Watkins Glen Promotions building.

Bottom: Open House visitor Ken Wilson took a moment to handle a phone call.

New grandstands are pictured at Turn 11, just beyond Turn 11, and at Turn 1. Others are planned at Turn 10.

WGI plans new grandstands, VIP club, showers in 2011

$3 million Capital Improvement project unveiled

WATKINS GLEN, Dec. 7 -- Watkins Glen International will install four new, permanent grandstands and build a new Crown Royal Club VIP building as well as add showers in the infield area for the 2011 season at the racetrack.

The estimated cost of the project will be $3 million, bringing improvements at the track over the past nine years to nearly $30 million.

The project was unveiled Tuesday afternoon at a WGI news conference attended by drivers Boris Said and Todd Bodine, and various dignitaries: Schuyler County Sheriff Bill Yessman, County Administrator Tim O'Hearn, State Senator-elect Tom O'Mara, County Legislator Phil Barnes, Schuyler County Industrial Development Agency executive Kevin Murphy, Empire State Development Southern Tier Regional Director Kevin McLaughlin, Welliver McGuire chairman and CEO Scott Welliver, and Congressman Tom Reed's regional director, Joe Sempolinski.

“We are absolutely thrilled to be able to respond to the requests of our fans and improve their experiences in so many areas with these new capital improvements,” said Michael Printup, president of Watkins Glen International. “We receive regular feedback from our fans, and their comments have helped shape our plan." The grandstands, obtained from Michigan International Speedway as it undergoes a renovation that downsizes its seating, are plastic and metal, and wider than wooden seating they will be replacing.

They will take the place of four temporary structures called the Turn 10, Turn 11, Green, and Silver Grandstands that are annually built for the NASCAR weekend. The new permanent grandstands will retain the same names.

Over the last several years, fans have identified those four grandstands as needing the most significant and immediate upgrades due to tight conditions and less than desirable comfort, Printup said. The addition of the permanent grandstands will increase the grandstand capacity at the track by about 1,400 seats, bring total grandstand seating above 35,000.

Printup said there is no breakdown yet of individual costs. WGI put the estimated total cost at about $3 million in its presentation to the International Speedway Corporation board of directors, which approved the funding.

The track has long been short on fan services, Printup said, a matter that has been addressed in recent years and is in this project. "We just have to keep showing improvement," he said, and the fans will understand. "They just have to give us time."

The project is, as with previous WGI projects, privately funded. "We're real excited that we're able to do this," said Printup. "One reason we can is because of the support we receive from the people on this panel. Also, we were one of just three tracks to show an increase in attendance this year at a NASCAR race. To garner this kind of capital in this economy is remarkable."

Both Said and Bodine -- a Chemung native and recently winner of his second NASCAR Camping World Truck Series title -- spoke briefly at the press conference.

Said noted that the Schuyler County area provides a "unique atmosphere for a racetrack," complete with plenty of family-friendly attractions. "It's a pretty exciting place; the fans are awesome here," he added.

And Bodine noted that the track has been "important to my family," which includes his brothers, Geoff and Brett Bodine, both former NASCAR drivers.

"But we've gotta get the trucks back up here," he said, referring to the truck series. "The last time I raced here was in a Cup car. I thought I would do more of that, but it didn't work out that way."

The new Crown Royal Club -- successor to the Glen Club that burned down four years ago and was replaced by temporary quarters -- will be placed in the traditional VIP club spot near the top of the Esses. The new, permanent structure will be climate controlled, have a full roof, and feature three glass walls which will provide an extensive view around the club and allow for plenty of natural light inside. Guests will still be treated to a full deck on the outside of the club, allowing them to watch all of the on-track action as the cars roar up the hill.

Permanent showers will be added to two existing bathrooms in the infield, providing close and convenient locations for campers to freshen up during event weekends. The first set of showers will be added to the bathroom located at the corner of Wedgewood and Richardson roads and the second set to the bathroom located on the Gate 6 road outside the West Tunnel. Each addition will feature a total of 12 showerheads (six for men and six for women). This marks the first time that permanent showers are being built on the infield of The Glen. Campers have used either temporary shower trailers that were brought in during major event weekends or had to travel to the showers located in the Gate 1 camping area.

Meanwhile, Gate 1 camping will receive numerous new water spigots, and 60 additional light posts will be placed throughout the grounds. The campers staying in VIP Pit Road Camping can look forward to a fully paved area which will eliminate the gravel that can cause dust during dry event weekends. This will also provide a flat and smooth surface on which to place their motor homes.

The Glen has been undergoing a series of capital improvements over the past nine years, including the addition of safer barriers and extended run-off areas in several turns in 2010, the new Media Center in 2008, track repaving in 2006, a new grandstand along the front stretch in 2005, and an upgrade to the garage and an improved water and sewer system that included the additions of showers in the Gate 1 campground from 2001 thru 2004.

Photos in text:

From top: Driver Boris Said, WGI President Michael Printup, driver Todd Bodine, and a rendering of the new Crown Royal Club.

Drivers and dignitaries at Tuesday's press conference pose for pictures. From left: Schuyler County Sheriff Bill Yessman; Schuyler County Industrial Development Agency executive Kevin Murphy, County Administrator Tim O'Hearn, Empire State Development Southern Tier Regional Director Kevin McLaughlin, driver Boris Said, WGI President Michael Printup, driver Todd Bodine, State Senator-elect Tom O'Mara, Congressman Tom Reed's regional director, Joe Sempolinski, and County Legislator Phil Barnes.

Speaker touts local foods at CCE session

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Dec. 2 -- Nearly 80 people were on hand Thursday to hear Dr. Jennifer Wilkins, Senior Extension Associate at Cornell University’s Department of Nutrition Sciences, give a presentation on Local Foods for Healthy People and Strong Communities at Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Schuyler County’s 2010 Annual Meeting.

The buffet breakfast at the Human Services Complex featured foods provided by local farms and producers and prepared by CCE staff.

Dr. Wilkins provided information on the health, economic, and ecological benefits of growing food or buying it locally. Food that is grown locally is brought to your table more quickly than food that is shipped and therefore retains more nutrients and freshness, she pointed out.

Eating local foods, she added, boosts the local economy, providing jobs and bringing dollars to the community. Food that stays close to home requires less fossil fuel to ship and helps keep land in use for agriculture as opposed to development, she said.

A brief business meeting was held before the featured speaker. Rebekah Lamoreaux and Kristine Somerville were elected to three-year terms on the CCE Board of Directors. Retiring members Skip Bergen and Michelle Hyde were recognized for their years of service on the Board. Max Neal and Jim Preston were presented with 2010 Friend of Extension awards for their continuing support of CCE’s educational mission.

Cornell Cooperative Extension provides a wealth of information about food and nutrition, home gardening, youth development, woodlot management, energy conservation, planning, and more.

Photo in text: Dr. Jennifer Wilkins (Photo provided)

Halpin is the new Chamber chairman

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Nov. 23 -- Members of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce approved a 2011 slate of officers and directors at its recent annual meeting, naming attorney Robert L. Halpin of The Halpin Firm as Chairman of the Board.

Other officers are Vivian (Vicki) Schamel of the Village Marina Bar and Grill, First Vice Chairwoman; Michael Printup of Watkins Glen International, Second Vice Chairman; Anthony Fraboni of HSBC Bank, Treasurer; and Donna Davis of Sunset on Seneca Bed and Breakfast, Secretary. Debra Whiting of Red Newt Cellars Winery and Bistro will serve as Immediate Past Chairwoman.

Additionally elected at the meeting -- held at the Red Newt Winery -- were four new directors: Carl Blower of Hawk’s View Consulting; Brett Brubaker of Seneca Lodge; Rick Carroll of Chemung Canal Trust Company; and Lindsay Wickham of the Schuyler County Farm Bureau.

A 2010 Year-in-Review was presented at the meeting, covering a recap of the Chamber’s strategic goals for the year. The 2010 Annual Report was distributed, and the 2011 budget was presented.

The evening also featured the Chamber’s Monthly Mixer with networking, hors d’oeuvres, wine, raffles and prizes. The next Chamber Mixer will be on Wednesday, Dec. 15 at Jerlando's Ristorante in downtown Watkins Glen.

Dumbauld to lead Hunt transport unit

Special to The Odessa File

HORSEHEADS, Nov. 22 -- Hunt Engineers, Architects & Land Surveyors, PC has announced that Barry J. Dumbauld, PE, has assumed the leadership position for the firm’s transportation group.

Dumbauld (right), who works in Hunt’s Rochester office, has been with the firm since 2005 and has more than 20 years of transportation experience. He is licensed in New York and Pennsylvania, and holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the Rochester Institute of Technology. He was named a principal in the firm in 2009.

Dumbauld is a member of the New York State Association of Transportation Engineers (NYSATE), the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE), the Association of State Highway Engineers, and the Institute of Transportation Engineers. He, his wife, Kristen, and their two children live in Bloomfield.

Hunt is a 110-person professional consulting firm with offices in Horseheads and Rochester, offering engineering, architecture, and surveying services to municipal, commercial, and educational clients. More information is available at www.Hunt-eas.com.

Vacant Glen store is in line for Primary Care Center

Planning Board gives preliminary site-plan approval

WATKINS GLEN, Nov. 18 -- Schuyler Hospital has cleared the first official hurdle in establishing a Primary Care Center in the former Dollar General store at 520 S. Franklin St., Watkins Glen, in the Tops Plaza.

The vacant 8,000-square-foot facility will require only interior work, the Watkins Glen Planning Board was told Wednesday night. The board granted preliminary site-plan approval.

Matt Taylor, the Schuyler Hospital Director of Facilities, told the board that there was no need to change the exterior of the building or the parking. A floor plan, which shows cubicles separated by permanent partitions, has been sent to the state for review, he said.

The Planning Board approved a Negative Declaration -- showing no adverse environmental impact in the project -- and approved the preliminary site plan. It sent the matter to the County Planning Commission for its perusal, and set a public hearing for 7:30 p.m. Dec. 15, at the next Planning Board session.

Board Chair Joe Fazzary said that assuming there were no objections to the project, the final site plan approval is likely that night. After that, the project can proceed.

Taylor said after the meeting that the space for the clinic would be leased from building owner Mary Jo Yunis, who was also present at the meeting.

According to the project description accompanying the Application for Site Plan Review, "This project will include the relocation of doctors and staff to a central site that is more code compliant and cost effective for the hospital and patients."

A hospital spokesman said that means medical personnel currently working out of the Guthrie Clinic between First and Second Streets in Watkins Glen will be moving to the new location. The current Primary Care Center adjacent to the hospital will not be affected.

The application also stated: "The space will be subdivided into two areas, the north side having doctors' offices and walk-in care. The south side will have the outpatient rehab area."

The anticipated completion date is May 1, 2011.

In other business, the Planning Board:

--Approved a preliminary site plan submitted by the Watkins Glen Fire Company for construction of an 8-by-16-foot storage facility next to the fire hall, on its west side. The board sent the application to the County Planning Commission, and set a public hearing for 7 p.m. Dec. 15, at its next meeting. Final site plan approval is expected that same night.

--Heard from Brian Williams (right) of the Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development, who outlined a 6 p.m. meeting on Dec. 1 at the Watkins Glen Community Center that will feature presentation of the Final Lakefront Management & Development Strategy.

The presentation will focus on the Strategy's findings, recommendations, and final design solutions for the lakefront. An overview of the next steps needed to implement the plan will also be outlined. The public is invited.

The plan deals with scores of aspects under the headings of Access & Connections, Signage & Streetscape, Economic Development, Sustainability & Environmental Quality, and Physical Improvements.

Photos in text:

Top: Planning Board members (from left) Joe Fazzary, Kevin Smith and Tom Fitzgerald. At extreme left with his back to the camera is board member Amedeo Fraboni.

Middle: Schuyler Hospital Facilities Director Matt Taylor addresses the board.

Bottom: SCOPED's Brian Williams discusses the Dec. 1 Lakefront Development meeting.

A paper model shows the layout of one of the four planned third-floor apartments.

Open House shines light on The Flats

MONTOUR FALLS, Nov. 12 -- It was built in 1922, a poured concrete structure with steel support -- a sturdy building that has lasted through the better part of a century and, finally, it seemed, had outlived its usefulness.

It had, in its most recent historical stage, served as offices to various governmental and service agencies. But they found new lodging, mostly in the renovated Jamesway building that became the Schuyler County Human Services Complex.

So the Rural Urban Center, as it had long been called, was vacant.

But no more. It is peopled now by construction workers who are in the early stages of turning the building at 208 Broadway in Montour Falls into a mid-range group of apartments, possibly with a commercial venture or two along with offices.

The developer is Bruce Nelson, the same man who turned the Montour House from a shambles into a showplace. This time, the task is not so daunting because, he said, "this is a really solid building."

Nelson was on hand Friday night for the first in a monthly series of Open Houses at The Flats on Broadway, as the Rural Urban Center is being called. He provided the same sort of monthly gatherings at the Montour House throughout its yearlong renovation, which was completed earlier this year. The Montour House is at full occupancy with 10 apartments, a doctor's office, a bank office, a hospital business office, and a coffee shop.

The physical portion of this latest project -- Nelson had spent time lining up financing and buying the building from the county long before the workmen arrived -- began two weeks ago. It will, he says, take "364 days, and not a day longer, to complete."

Nelson, who lives in Whitney Point and commutes to Montour Falls, says he has no more projects lined up after this one. "I retired three years ago," he says, "but I keep getting drawn into these things."

This particular project calls for the development of a group of European-styled apartments, each with an unusually high ceiling -- almost 14 feet on the third floor, and almost 13 feet on the second floor.

"We're calling it The Flats," Nelson said, "which would indicate a British influence, but the apartments will really be more in a European style. Think IKEA, and you get the idea." (IKEA is a Swedish-based international home products firm.)

His goal, at it was at the Montour House, is full occupancy -- in whatever form that might take. He's constructing four apartments on each of the top two floors of the three-story structure. The ground floor, with its different levels separated by risers, is expected to feature a commercial venture or two, and possibly offices, although "it's still up in the air," Nelson said.

The auditorium (a 1967 addition at the rear of the ground floor) had been the subject of discussions with local arts groups hoping to establish a performing arts center there, but Nelson said there was no firm commitment from the groups, and he is looking at other possible options. While the arts might still play a role, he suggested, he is looking toward finding a commercial business to go in there -- and failing that, "I could put in a couple more apartments."

Friday's Open House drew a steady stream of area residents curious as to what the building will become. Finger foods, along with coffee, cider and wine, were available, courtesy of the Montour Coffee House.

Nelson said he looks forward to the monthly public gatherings. His work crews-- needing to remove their equipment and make the place presentable each day on which an Open House is scheduled, "call it Hell Friday, but it's all good. It gets the place cleaned up."

Photos in text:

From top: Developer Bruce Nelson, right, plays host during the Open House; one of the apartments-to-be; a sign on the wall in one of the rooms; and a sign posted on the lawn near the building's front entrance.

Second-floor plans call for four apartments and a community room.

November Splendor raffle winners named

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Nov. 10 -- The Schuyler Health Foundation and Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary have announced the raffle winners at the recent November Splendor fund-raiser at the Harbor Hotel, an event that attracted 200 diners.

The event featured music by “Tom Bloodgood and the Unusual Suspects,” a door prize, and a wide selection of raffle baskets. Jim Howell was the evening’s Master of Ceremonies.

Raffle winners included Mindy Lagonegro, Stacy Woodworth, Ann Tuttle, Paul Jayne, Dr. Eunice Nayo, Mary Fairchild, Dr. Brian McVey, Troy Preston, Angie Franzese, Mike Learn and Jeff Confer. The door prize winner of a deluxe overnight stay at the Harbor Hotel was Angie Franzese.

Proceeds from the event go to the Auxiliary and the Foundation’s Family of Friends Campaign – supporting women’s health services and renovations at September Hill Women’s Center. Donations are still welcome for the campaign through December.

Event sponsors included The Bonadio Group, Elmira Savings Bank, and Manning & Napier. Raffle prize sponsors included Famous Brands, The Harbor Hotel, the International Motor Racing Research Center, Jeff’s On-Site Services, Lisa and Josh Navone of Schooner Excursions, the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary, and Welliver McGuire Inc., to name a few.

For more information, or to make a donation, contact the Schuyler Health Foundation at (607) 535-8879.

Photos in text:

Left: November Splendor Master of Ceremonies Jim Howell with his wife, Bonnie.

Right: Esther Heichel and Mike Learn dance to the music of “Tom Bloodgood and the Unusual Suspects” at Schuyler Hospital’s November Splendor fundraising event. (Photos provided)

Hospital Auxiliary honors volunteers

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Nov. 10 -- The Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary recently held its annual fall meeting at the Glen Motor Inn in Watkins Glen.

A highlight was the presentation of pins honoring nine volunteers for donating a total of over 7,036 hours to hospital service during the year.

Those receiving pins were Joyce Reynolds, Chris Updyke, Virginia Vischer, Clara Greis, Janet Stamp, Helen James, Patricia Gardiner, Marilyn Lockner, and Annabelle Specchio.

Also at the meeting, Clara Tryon, Executive Director of Operations for Schuyler Hospital, provided details on renovations to the September Hill Women’s Center. Ground was recently broken on the project, funded by the Schuyler Health Foundation’s Family of Friends Campaign.

To join the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary, call (607) 535-5129 or go to www.schuylerhospital.org

Photo in text: Auxiliary Membership Chair Nancy Pratt (right) presents a pin to Marilyn Locker in recognition of her volunteer hours for the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary in 2009-2010. (Photo provided)

Officials sever the ceremonial Grand Opening ribbon. From left: Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce President Rebekah LaMoreaux, Tops Chief Operating Officer Kevin Darrington, store manager Donna Grimes, and Watkins Glen Mayor Judy Phillips.

Grand Opening ceremony ushers in Tops

WATKINS GLEN, Nov. 5 -- Company officials, store workers, area dignitaries and onlookers who had entered the store to shop observed Thursday's Grand Opening ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Tops market on South Franklin Street.

Tops Friendly Markets, headquartered in Williamsville, NY, took over the Watkins store and others as part of a U.S. Bankruptcy Court-approved acquisition from Penn Traffic early this year -- an acquisition that included a number of Penn Traffic P&C stores -- including the one in Watkins. The name change to Tops was announced in May.

Speaking during the ceremony -- set inside the store, near the front entrance -- were store manager Donna Grimes, Tops Chief Operating Officer Kevin Darrington, Watkins Glen Mayor Judy Phillips, and Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce President Rebekah LaMoreaux.

Also featured was the presentation of $500 checks from Tops to five organizations as part of the company's "Living Here. Giving Here" community partnership program: The recipients were Catholic Charities, the Watkins Glen Public Library, the Watkins Glen Police Department, the Schuyler County Volunteer Ambulance Association, and the Watkins Glen School District.

Dignitaries on hand in addition to Mayor Phillips, LaMoreaux and the Tops officials included Watkins Glen School Superintendent Tom Phillips, Watkins Glen Police Chief Tom Struble, Watkins Glen Library Director Harriet Eisman and Catholic Charities' Paul Marx and Nancy Brand. They represented their organizations in accepting the Tops checks.

The ribbon was cut by Grimes, Darrington, Mayor Phillips and LaMoreaux.

The Watkins store was one of eight locations participating in same-day grand-opening celebrations Thursday at revamped and renamed stores acquired by Tops in the bankruptcy acquisition. Others were in Norwich, Owego, Penn Yan, and four Pennsylvania communities: Towanda, Troy, Canton and Wellsboro.

Photos in text: Tops store manager Donna Grimes (top) and Tops Chief Operating Officer Kevin Darrington address the audience at the ceremony.

Store manager Donna Grimes, left, presents a check to Catholic Charities, represented by Schuyler Outreach Director Nancy Brand and Schuyler Agency Director Paul Marx.

Schuyler Transit provides Dial-A-Ride

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Nov. 1 -- Schuyler County Transit may be operating on a fixed route in the villages of Burdett, Montour Falls, Odessa and Watkins Glen, but the public transportation system is also available to all geographic areas of the county to people who qualify as having a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act, commonly referred to as ADA eligible.

Eligibility may include the inability to use a particular route or stop because it is not wholly accessible, the inability to get to or from a bus on the fixed route system, or the inability to board, ride or exit an accessible bus on the fixed route system independently.

Individuals who are determined to be eligible and who live in the villages of Burdett, Montour Falls, Odessa, and Watkins Glen or within ¾ of a mile of the villages can make a reservation for the Dial-A-Ride bus to access medical facilities, shopping, county services and other locations for any reason within the villages. Fare for this service is $2 at each bus boarding.

The Dial-A-Ride transportation service is also available to approved riders who reside anywhere in Schuyler County for shopping, medical appointments and other services within the county on designated days. Fares range between $2 and $12 depending on location.

Dial-A-Ride transportation service for non-emergency medical appointments to providers in Corning, Elmira, Horseheads, and Ithaca from points within Schuyler County is also available on designated days for approved riders. Fares to these areas vary by area of residence and destination and reservations are required.

Applications for Americans with Disabilities Act eligibility may be obtained at The Arc of Schuyler, 203 Twelfth St. in Watkins Glen, the Schuyler County Office for the Aging at the Human Services Complex in Montour Falls, senior housing complexes, or by visiting www.schuylercountytransit.org.

For more information about designated days for travel to various locations, assistance with filing an ADA application, or to make an appointment for Dial-A-Ride service, call 607-535-3555.

Schuyler County Transit began operations in August of 2010 and has been providing a village connector service since that time.

Chef Andrew Cole promoted by Aramark

Special to The Odessa File

LITITZ, Pa., Oct. 25 -- Chef Andrew Cole has been promoted to a new position of East Region Culinary Manager, it has been announced by Aramark Dining Services.

Cole joined Aramark in 2004 and was most recently District Chef for the greater Philadelphia marketplace, as well as South Jersey, Scranton and the University of Rochester.

Before his career with Aramark, he was at Pierces in Elmira Heights and the Wildflower Cafe and the Town House in Watkins Glen. He then joined Sodexho as a food service director and Regional Executive Chef at Ithaca College. He is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America.

Cole lives in Lititz, Pa. with his wife Kristine (granddaughter of Louise Bartone) and his children Paige, Silas and Morgan. He is the son of Nancy and Charles Cole of Watkins Glen.

Photo in text: Chef Andrew Cole (Photo provided)

Glenora's Rieslings win Gold Medals

Special to The Odessa File

DUNDEE, Oct. 22 -- Glenora Wine Cellars' 2009 Riesling and 2009 Dry Riesling were recently awarded Gold medals by The Beverage Testing Institute during its 2010 World Value Wine Challenge.

In addition, Glenora’s 2009 Riesling received a score of 93 points, the highest in the category, and was named The Best Value United States Riesling. The 2009 Dry Riesling, with a score of 91 points, was named a Top 10 White Wine $20 and under.

The Beverage Testing Institute (BTI) uses double blind tastings to judge the wines. The panels consist of screened and trained professionals who all have an extensive wine-related background.

“I truly feel these medals and the recognition validates that the Finger Lakes appellation produces high quality Riesling.” said Steve DiFrancesco, Wine Maker at Glenora Wine Cellars. “We are certainly proud to have received Gold medals for the past three years in this prestigious competition.”

Glenora Wine Cellars has been producing award-winning, high-quality wines for over 33 years. In 1977, it was the first winery to open 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) adjoining the winery on a 40-acre estate.

Bower honored as Woman of the Year

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Oct. 20 -- The Southern Finger Lakes Women (SFLW), a Chapter of New York State Women, Inc., presented its annual “Woman of the Year” award Monday to caterer Carol Bower.

The award was made during the week (Oct. 18-22) proclaimed nationally by the U.S. President as National Business Women’s Week, and locally by the Schuyler County Legislature and the Villages of Watkins Glen, Odessa, and Montour Falls. Since 1928, National Business Women’s Week has recognized the achievements and honored the contributions of American working women.

Bower (on the left in the photo at right) is a native of the Watkins Glen area. She is the daughter of Ed and Ella Ritz, attended the Odessa-Montour Central School and graduated from Morrisville College with a degree in Food Preparation.

She has worked as a dietitian at the Arnot Medical Center and Schuyler Hospital, and has operated her own catering service since 1968. She is a past Watkins Glen “Business Person of the Year.”

Bower and her husband headed up the Schuyler County United Way fund-raiser in 2008. Many
community events, from the Chamber of Commerce to the League of Women Voters, the
Watkins Glen Library and the Watkins Raceway, have had their events catered by Bower’s
business.

The Southern Finger Lakes Chapter also awarded the 2010 Women’s Career Enhancement
Scholarship to KareLin Kilmer of Hector. The SFLW started the Women’s Career
Enhancement Scholarship program in 2008 as part of their objective of “women helping women.”
The scholarships provide assistance to women 25 years of age and older who are furthering their
education.

KareLin Kilmer is employed by Catholic Charities and received her Associate's Degree from Corning Community College. She is currently attending Empire State College to achieve her
Bachelor’s degree in Social Theory; Social Structure and Change; and Law and Society. After she completes her BS, Kilmer plans to work and save money so that she can attend law school and obtain a JD.

New York State Women, Inc. 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. The Southern Finger
Lakes Women Chapter meets on the third Monday of each month. For more information about the Southern Finger Lakes Women, contact Gloria Hutchings at (607) 594-2489 or JoAnne Krolak at (607) 732-1171. For more information about the scholarship program administered by the SFLW, contact Christine Brown at (607) 739-8499.

Photo in text:

Top: From left: Carol Bower (2010 Woman of the Year), Mary Ellen Morgan (NYSWI President), Patricia Butler (Scholarship Committee), and KareLin Kilmer (2010 Women’s Career Enhancement Scholarship Winner).

Bottom: The Southern Finger Lakes Women's newest officers, for 2010-11, are (left to right): Karen Hunter, president; Chris Brown, president-elect; Onalee Stamp, vice-president; Lisa Rhoads, secretary; and Judith Coyle, treasurer. (Photos provided)

Schuyler Hospital welcomes 2 to staff

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Oct. 16 -- Schuyler Hospital has announced the addition of a new Orthopedic Physician Assistant and a new Foundation Executive Director to the staff.

Christopher K. Hobler, ATC, OPA-C, joined the staff at Schuyler Hospital’s Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Department in October. Hobler is a Certified Athletic Trainer, and a Certified Orthopedic Physician Assistant. He received his BS in Biology from Syracuse University; his AS in Physical Therapy from St. Philips College in San Antonio, TX; and his MS in Physical Education (Sports Medicine) from Ithaca College. Hobler can be reached at (607) 219-1968.

William S. Little also joined the hospital staff in October, as the Executive Director of the Schuyler Health Foundation. Little received his BA in Economics from UCLA; and his MBA from Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH. Little can be reached at (607) 535-8879.

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

Schuyler Transit fleet is fully 'dressed'

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Oct. 9 -- The Schuyler County Transit fleet, now in its third month of operation, is fully "dressed" with a colorful mural and has made over 760 transports in the villages of Burdett, Watkins Glen, Montour Falls, and Odessa since its first ride on August 16.

The mural adorning all of the transit vehicles combines significant locations and features in the Schuyler County area.

“The mural was selected because it demonstrates important and unique traits of the county,” County Administrator Tim O’Hearn said. “The image is colorful and eye-catching to riders.”

The Watkins Glen Court House on the far right of the mural was photographed by Peggy Tomassi. The cluster of concord grapes, a symbol of Watkins Glen’s connection to the wine industry and the Finger Lakes region, was submitted by the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce.

The mural also includes images of a race at Watkins Glen International and rushing waterfalls in the gorges of Watkins Glen State Park. The picture of the pier at Seneca Harbor Park, a well-known landmark on Seneca Lake and one frequently visited by locals and tourists, was provided by photographer Richard Owlett.

Transit vehicles have been averaging a total of 100 riders per week; boarding the bus to reach grocery stores, medical appointments, county services, and local restaurants and parks.

As a pilot program, the first year of operation is critical in determining the need and feasibility of a sustained public transit system, officials have said.. Ridership data, suggestions, and additional transportation needs are being collected and documented.

Schuyler County Transit schedules are available at locations throughout the county. For more information about the system, visit www.schuylercounttransit.org or call 607-535-3555.

Photo in text: Transit bus with its Schuyler mural. (Photo provided)

Eiron Smith named president at HL&W

Special to The Odessa File

ELMIRA, Oct. 6 -- Watkins Glen International Communications Director Eiron Smith has been named president of Howell Liberatore & Wickham, Inc., an Elmira-based advertising and business communications agency. The announcement came from HL&W Chairman George L. Howell, who said former president Fred Wickham will continue with the agency as design lead.

“It is with great pleasure that I am able to welcome Eiron to our company,” said Howell. “We are confident that her experience and familiarity within the community and among local business leaders will help energize the agency’s roadmap to success. I would also like to thank Fred for his contributions and wish him well as he transitions from his role as president to pursue obligations within his family’s agricultural business.”

Smith has been with the International Speedway Corporation (ISC) -- owner of the Watkins Glen International race track -- since August 2002, when she was hired as the Public Relations Manager for Nazareth Speedway in Pennsylvania. During her eight years with ISC, Smith was responsible for all aspects of consumer marketing and public relations activities in promoting the events held at the race track, including NASCAR, the IndyCar Series, and the Finger Lakes Wine Festival. Combined, these events draw hundreds of thousands of people to this region annually.

Prior to being at ISC, she held positions in corporate communications, and in manufacturing & engineering, at World Kitchen, Inc. (previously known as Corning Consumer Products Company) -- a leading producer of kitchenware products such as Pyrex, Corelle and CorningWare -- over the course of five years. There, she was instrumental in communicating a new corporate/brand identity following the company’s separation from Corning, Inc. She was also involved in mergers & acquisitions, organizational/financial restructuring, and corporate and brand website development.

“I couldn’t be more thrilled to join such a historic company and dynamic team,” said Smith of her HL&W role. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my experience at WGI and ISC and know that I have learned a great deal from motorsports that can be applied to other industries. I am also excited to further showcase the many great businesses within the agency’s portfolio that are located right here in the Southern Tier and am looking forward to finding additional partnerships to sustain future growth for the firm. I am grateful for this opportunity and cannot wait to hit the ground running.”

The International Speedway Corporation (Nasdaq: ISCA) is a leading promoter in motorsports and owns and/or operates 13 of the nation’s major motorsports facilities. Watkins Glen International hosted eight spectator events from April-September in 2010. Smith will take the helm as president of HL&W later this month. Her last day at the race track was to be Oct. 7.

Photo in text: Eiron Smith (Photo provided)

'Fuel up Foundation' names raffle winners

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Oct. 4 -- The Schuyler Health Foundation of Schuyler Hospital hosted over 130 participants in its inaugural “Fuel up the Foundation” fundraising event Sept.24. at Watkins Glen International’s Media Center.

Cosponsored by the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary, the event featured music by Southwind and a number of raffles.

The grand prize winner was George Roets, while runners-up included Kathy Fragola, Dr. William Saks, Dr. Kristina Cummings, Van Harp, Henry Rocholl, and Don Spaccio.

In the highlighted “balloon raffle,” Troy Preston was the big winner – walking away with (2) tickets to the Foundation’s showcase event – November Splendor – scheduled for Saturday, November 6th, at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel. One hundred other balloons were popped for additional prizes.

“We had a fun night and gave away a lot of prizes,” said Schuyler Health Foundation Executive Director Bill Little. “But we at the Foundation are truly the winners. We are grateful for our community’s continued support of the Foundation and Schuyler Hospital. See you at November Splendor!”

Arc salutes Direct Support Professionals

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Sept. 13 -- The Arc of Schuyler is joining agencies across the country this week in saluting direct support professionals during what the United States Senate and New York State have designated as Direct Support Professional Recognition Week.

In addition, on September 23, The Arc of Schuyler will welcome its direct support professionals to a special presentation by John Raffaele, Director of Staff Training at New Hope Community, Loch Sheldrake, NY. Raffaelle has been involved in the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals as well as the Direct Support Professionals Alliance of NYS. The Arc will also be issuing a publication celebrating the work of the organization’s Direct Support Professionals.

For the third consecutive year, the U.S. Senate has reserved one week to honor the men and women who directly assist over 15 millions Americans who are elderly or have a disability. Known by many titles – such as direct care workers, aides, residential counselors, day habilitation specialists, etc. – Direct Support Professionals play a vital role in the lives of persons with disabilities, supporting them in daily activities and helping them enjoy lives as fully participating members of their communities.

The Arc of Schuyler’s Direct Support Professionals assist over 300 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Schuyler County area in developing basic skills, learning self-advocacy, preparing for careers in the workforce, and becoming active participants in their community.

"Direct Support Professionals provide invaluable support and services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families in Schuyler County," said James Wilson, Executive Director of The Arc of Schuyler. "Their dedication and hard work is an example to everyone. Their commitment is awesome and should be recognized in every community."

Myers earns Board Certification

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Sept. 4 -- Schuyler Hospital’s Director of Rehabilitation Services, Michele Myers, recently earned her Board Certification for Orthopedic Services.

A Physical Therapist, Myers earned her Orthopedic Certified Specialty (OCS) through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS).

According to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) website at www.apta.org, the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) of APTA awarded specialist certification to 939 physical therapists this year. Since 1985, 10,348 physical therapists have achieved board certification. Those who were recognized recently completed the requirements to become board-certified specialists in one or more of the specialty areas including Orthopedics, Cardiovascular and Pulmonary, Clinical Electrophysiology, Geriatrics, Neurology, Pediatrics, Sports, and Women's Health Physical Therapy.

To obtain board certification, candidates must submit evidence of required clinical practice in a specialty area. In addition, candidates must successfully complete a rigorous written examination, demonstrating specialized knowledge and advanced clinical proficiency in a specialty area of physical therapist practice.

ABPTS was established by APTA as the governing body that awards certification to physical therapists who meet approved requirements.

To make an appointment with Myers, or with any of Schuyler Hospital’s physical, speech, or occupational therapists, contact the Hospital’s Rehabilitation Services Department at (607) 535-8616.

Walmart donates $4,000 to hospital

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Sept. 4 -- Following the Schuyler Hospital Health Foundation’s Celebrity Bag-a-Thon on August 5th at the Watkins Glen Walmart, the store donated $4,000 to the foundation.

Funds will go toward the foundation’s 2010 Family of Friends fundraising campaign, targeted at improving women's health services at Schuyler Hospital. Walmart is a large supporter of both women’s services and children’s services in the community.

“We are so appreciative of our growing partnership with the Watkins Glen Walmart, and for their very generous support,” said Jim Howell, Family of Friends Campaign Chairperson. “To the staff, management and the entire organization – we can’t thank you enough.”

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

Planning Board gives OK to restaurant

WATKINS GLEN, Aug. 20 -- A new restaurant called Oriental Hibachi Buffet received final site-plan approval Wednesday night from the Watkins Glen Planning Board, clearing the way for interior work to proceed as the restaurant owners prepare for a future opening.

The restaurant, which in early paperwork to the Planning Board had been described as a Chinese-Japanese restaurant, will be located in the former Video Tech and Dan's Dugout storefronts at 511 N. Franklin St., across 6th Street from Savard's Restaurant.

The owner is listed in village papers as Liu Yong Qin of the New York City area, believed to be part of a group that owns other restaurants. Neither the owner nor any other representative was present Wednesday for a public hearing on the plan, nor did anyone speak for or against it. The proposal had previously gained the approval of the Schuyler County Planning Commission.

Exterior work on the building was done several months ago, and now interior work can proceed after necessary drawings are submitted to Code Enforcement Officer Gordon Wright. That interior work, one village official noted, will include the installation of fire walls and a ventilation system in addition to restaurant equipment..

The J.R. Dill Winery as seen from State Rte. 414.

Ribbon-cutting ceremony ushers in J.R. Dill Winery

BURDETT, Aug. 21-- The numbers 26 and 50 were significant Friday as a ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening marked the formal debut of the new J.R. Dill Winery at 4922 State Rte. 414 on the east side of Seneca Lake.

The latter figure, 50, is -- Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce President Rebekah LaMoreaux said in a ribbon-cutting speech -- the number of wine-producing facilities on Seneca Lake now that the Dill Winery has opened.

The former figure, 26, is the age of the owner, Jeffrey R. Dill. He is -- said Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development Executive Director Kelsey Jones -- starting a trend of "under 30" entrepreneurs entering winemaking or related projects around the lake. There are two other such "under 30s" preparing businesses -- which Jones suggested counters the commonly held belief that the county's young people are leaving.

Dill left Schuyler, but only for a while -- long enough to earn a bachelor's degree from Philadelphia University and experience a couple of jobs following his 2002 graduation from Watkins Glen High School.

He has subsequently earned a Masters in Business Administration from Drexel University in Philadelphia -- mostly through an online graduate program that required occasional attendance on campus.

Jeffrey Dill's father, Bob -- a member of the Watkins Glen School Board -- said the idea of a winery was all Jeff's, and that he, Bob, was in fact surprised his son would consider tackling such a daunting venture at such a young age.

But the younger Dill -- a longtime winemaking hobbyist -- obtained financing, and the winery building was erected early this year by Finger Lakes Construction. Then Jeff -- with help from his father and his mother, Jackie -- created the tasting-room interior, a high-ceilinged, soft-focus atmosphere marked by two unusual features.

One is the bar, a structure with a glass top above shelving chock full of Seneca Lake glass -- pieces of glass retrieved from the lake over the past 35 years, mostly by Jackie Dill. It is, Bob Dill agreed, a Glass Over Glass bar.

The other feature: enlargements on the western wall of area photos snapped many decades ago by a man named Francis Thompson. His photos ended up in the possession of the late Georgia Carney, who dealt in antiques for many years -- and was Bob Dill's aunt.

Bob himself is familiar with antiques, and recognized the heritage-rich nature of the photos when they were found following Georgia's death in an auto accident in Odessa years ago, when she was 92.

"They're unique," Bob Dill said of the photos -- and with their recent enlargement, they provide striking wall attractions.

One visitor to the new winery asked Jeffrey Dill if the photos were for sale, and Dill answered "No" quickly. But after a moment he added: "At least not yet."

If enough people express interest in them, he said, he might have to look at them as a possible supplementary retail item.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony, just outside the winery on the walkway leading to the main entrance, had Jeff Dill and the Chamber's LaMoreaux doing the honors with a large set of shears that Dill noted were "pretty heavy." The red ribbon was held at either end by Bob and Jackie Dill.

Before the cutting, LaMoreaux and SCOPED's Jones issued their remarks, leading to a brief speech by the young entrepreneur.

Jeffrey Dill said he was pretty sure his parents hadn't envisioned this winery those eight short years ago when he was graduating from high school, "but here we are." He thanked his parents, assured them there would be plenty of free wine for them, and made a toast.

"May the J.R. Dill Winery be like a fine wine and get better with age," he said.

The event was catered by Red Newt Cellars Winery and Bistro chef Deb Whiting. Guests sampled the Dill Winery's new creations -- including Cabernet Franc, DeChaunac, Riesling, Chardonnay, and Jabber Waulkie Blush -- and purchased bottles to take home with them.

For further information about the new business, contact the Chamber at 607-535-4300 or the J.R. Dill Winery at 607-546-5757.

Photos in text:

From top: Chamber President Rebekah LaMoreaux speaks at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, flanked by Jeffrey Dill and Bob Dill; the wall of photos; the bar with lake glass; and Dill's parents, Jackie and Bob.

The ribbon separates as Jeffrey Dill and Rebekah LaMoreaux cut it.

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.\

And for a look at one of the key chapters in the book, go to Features.