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16 N. Franklin Street, Watkins Glen, NY 14891. Phone: (607) 535-6116

The scene Monday night at the Spaghetti Dinner. (Photo provided)

Dinner raises $2,300 for scholarships

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, March 10 -- More than $2,300 was raised by the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary at its annual Spaghetti Dinner Monday night at the Montour Moose Lodge.

The funds will be designated for scholarships for local high school students and hospital employees pursuing a career in health care.

Over 200 meals were served on-site, along with 160 take-outs.

The Auxiliary noted the contributions of the Montour Moose Lodge, "which graciously hosts the event every year," and the volunteer help provided by the Watkins-Montour Lions Club, the Watkins Glen High School Interact Club and the Odessa-Montour High School National Honor Society.

Left: Nick Dugo (left) and Amedeo Fraboni prepare spaghetti dishes. Right: The Interact Club (Kelly Martin & Hannah Pastrick) and Lions Club were busy in the kitchen. (Photos provided)

Nominations sought for arts award

Special to The Odessa File

CORNING, March 8 -- The annual ARTS Council of the Southern Finger Lakes' ARTS Partnership Award -- which honors outstanding contributors whose work has helped advance the arts and cultural development in the region -- will be presented at The ARTS Council of the Southern Finger Lakes' Annual Meeting at 5:30 p.m. April 30 at the Rockwell Museum of Western Art.

Leading to that, nomination forms and support documentation must be submitted by April 1 to: The ARTS Council of the Southern Finger Lakes, 32 West Market Street, Corning, NY 14830. For additional information or to request nomination instructions, contact Lynn Dates by phone (607) 962-5871 x226 or by email at TheARTS@eARTS.org.

The ARTS Partnership Award was developed to recognize individuals, businesses, schools or organizations that have demonstrated vision, leadership and commitment to the advancement and development of the arts.

The 2009 recipients were:

Lynne Rusinko for "her tireless commitment, outstanding contribution and dedication to artists and organizations in her community. Her enthusiasm, creativity, passion and skills have helped the arts thrive throughout the region. She has volunteered countless hours to the Elmira Open Studio Tour, Steele Memorial Library's Poetry Festival, Community Arts of Elmira, Festival of Women in the Arts and the Elmira Street Painting Festival."

William Locke for "creating stellar arts programming for the schools in his district and for being an invincible advocate for the arts in the Arkport/Hornell region in Steuben County. Locke is an actor and vocalist who performed in many plays and musical events. He was instrumental in the creation of the Hornell Rotary Club Summer Musical Program and serves as an adjudicator for the Rochester Broadway Theatre League."

The ARTS Council of the Southern Finger Lakes is the leading arts services and development agency in Chemung, Schuyler and Steuben counties.

Exterior shot of the display window at the gallery, with traffic reflected as it passes by.

Gallery Open House marks Youth Art Month

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, March 7 -- The Franklin Street Gallery, in participation with The ARTS Council of the Southern Finger Lakes, held an open house Saturday, March 6 at the gallery to display artwork produced by Watkins Glen and Odessa-Montour School District students.

It was the kickoff of Youth Art Month, during which student artwork will be displayed at the gallery, located at 209 N. Franklin St., as well as at the HSBC Bank in Watkins Glen.

Light refreshments were provided, and musical selections from the upcoming Watkins Glen High School musical "Bye Bye Birdie" were presented by students in the play.

The play will be presented on Friday, March 26th at 8:00 p.m. at the Watkins Glen High School Auditorium, with repeat performances on Saturday the 27th at 8:00 p.m., and Sunday the 28th at 2:30 p.m. Tickets will be available at the door.

Youth Art Month is a project of The ARTS Council of the Southern Finger Lakes. The Franklin Street Gallery is one of many local organizations supporting the effort to provide venues for area youths to share their creative accomplishments in the community.

The gallery is open Wednesday through Friday from noon to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Contact Peter Greaves or Misty Jones at 607-535-2571 or email the gallery at gallery@arcofschuyler.org for more information.

Photos in text:

Top: A boy snaps pictures of Youth Art Month artwork at the Franklin Street Gallery during Saturday's open house.

Bottom: WGHS senior Eric Mack sings a selection from the school play, "Bye Bye Birdie."

Students Jenna Gimbar and Cameron Fitch perform songs from "Bye Bye Birdie."

Craft classes on tap at Odessa, Glen libraries

Special to The Odessa File

ODESSA, March 5 -- Spring is in the air and to celebrate, the Dutton S. Peterson Memorial Library in Odessa will be offering Saturday morning craft classes in March, April and May.

Felicia Dvornicky -- an avid folk artist and art teacher from Elmira -- will be instructing a variety of interesting crafts. The classes, about 90-minutes each, are free.

The first class -- dealling with Easter egg decorations -- will be on Saturday, March 20 at 9 a.m. The second class -- dealing with colorful fabric designs called the art of Molas -- will be on Saturday, April 10 at 9 a.m.

The third class, offered on Saturday, May 22 at 9 a.m., will concern intricate designs called Scherenschitte.

Pre-registration is required, as space is limited due to the size of the library. You may call the Peterson library at 594-2791 or stop in to sign up. Classes are open to all ages, except the Scherenschitte class, where ages 8 and older may sign up. Bring scissors to each class.

The classes are made possible through the support of the ARTS Council of the Southern Finger Lakes, the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc., and the Peterson Library.

(Note: These classes will be offered on the same days listed above at the Watkins Glen Public Library at 1 p.m. For information on those afternoon programs, call 535-2346.)

Exchange student to speak at center

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, March 4 -- Moritz Schrader, a Watkins Glen High School exchange student from Germany, will be the featured speaker at Books Sandwiched In on Wednesday, March 10 at noon in the film room at the International Motor Racing Research Center, 610 S. Decatur St.

He will make a presentation about his home country and share his experiences of living in Schuyler County.

This program is free and open to the public. Participants are welcome to bring lunch; the Friends of Watkins Library will provide beverages and dessert.

For more information, contact the library at 607-535-2346 or watkins@stls.org

Photo in text: Moritz Schrader

The cast of the WGHS production of "Bye Bye Birdie" (Photo provided)

'Bye Bye Birdie' coming soon

The following update on preparations for the Watkins Glen High School production of "Bye Bye Birdie" was written by Tim Benjamin, who is co-director with his wife Michelle.

WATKINS GLEN, March 4 -- The 2010 Watkins Glen High School Senior Musical "Bye Bye Birdie" is down to the nitty gritty.

The choreography is done, we’ve been "off book" for a couple of weeks now, and the students have been on top of their lines since we took the books away from them. We’re so far along that if not for a snow day last week, we would have cancelled the second of two double rehearsals that we usually do on the last two Sundays in February.

For Chell and I, this is the fun part of rehearsals -- when the actors know where they need to go, and we can help them polish characters and add the little details that make the show that much better: things like adding a pause here or there to accent a word or thought. Ongoing projects include developing their interactions with the other characters to bring the show alive, or creating a walk or a voice to go with a character, or just finding the little things in their lines or songs or scenes that they can play with to make them funnier, touching, memorable.

For the kids, however, this can be the most painfully boring part of the process – been there done that. To break the monotony, we tried something new. It is the theater equivalent of a "crash" drill that Performance Driving Schools have their students do. The principle is that the students -- not yet maximizing the speed of their cars -- are told by the instructor to go out and try to crash the vehicles. The students rarely do, and they usually drive faster than they ever have before.

At the beginning of rehearsal, we told the kids to go out on stage and do anything they wanted with their characters – whatever came to mind, just go ahead and try it. It was liberating. The cast as a whole had huge energy; and some of them picked up so much in their characters that it transformed this scene or that monologue into something much more than it was just the day before.

Why should you come to see "Bye Bye Birdie"? Here's why: Actors talented beyond their years, great vocals and harmonies, toe-tapping songs you'll continue to replay in your head on your way out the door, amazing dancing choreographed by not one -- but four -- student choreographers, an energetic and nostalgic trip back to the 1950s, funny touches the kids have mastered that will make you laugh out loud ... like we do every rehearsal! Need we say more?

Tom Wickham has come on to act as Stage Manager, trading places with Brenton Whiting, who took over Tom's parts on stage. Gee Brennan is handling costumes with assistance from Lori Gezzi (Leeann's Mom), Michelle Wixson (Haliegh and Homer's Mom) and Granma Wixson, as well as student Stacey Teed. Casey Holland and Ryan VanAlstine will be running sound and lights for the show this year, with an as-yet-unnamed spotlight crew. Sarah Teed is gathering props. And our wonderful ladies from Shear Designs are back to help with hair.

Look for us at the Franklin Street Gallery on Saturday, March 6th, as our cast helps kick off Youth Arts Month with a medley of songs from the show.

"Bye Bye Birdie" curtains on Friday, March 26th at 8:00 p.m. at the Watkins Glen High School Auditorium, with repeat performances on Saturday the 27th at 8:00 p.m., and Sunday the 28th at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are available at the door. For further information about the show, contact Tim Benjamin at 607-351-9260.

Photo in text:

From left: Jenna Gimbar, Ashley Johnson, Throsby Wells and Homer Wixson perform in a scene from "Bye Bye Birdie." (Photo provided)

O-M cast and crew members pose during rehearsal for "The Wiz." (Photo provided)

O-M preparing spring musical 'The Wiz'

ODESSA, Feb. 16 -- The Odessa-Montour High School spring musical "The Wiz" will be presented March 18-20 at 7:30 p.m. and March 20 at 2 p.m. in the Fetter-Brown auditorium at the school.

This play presents a modern twist on the story of "The Wizard of Oz," with gospel and rock-style music.

Director Kim Caldwell is overseeing a cast that -- as in years past -- will have some roles shared by students across the play's four shows ... allowing more students to perform.

Dorothy will be played by Senior Kayleigh Robinson on Thursday and Saturday evening, and by Freshman Morgan Stermer Friday evening and at the Saturday matinee. Anthony Curren and Tyler Walrath will share the Scarecrow role, Derek Morgan is the Tin Man, and Bekki Lauper is the Lion.

The Wiz himself is played by Dillon Salzer and Alyssa Bleiler. One of the two good witches, Addaperle, the FeelGood girl, will be played by Kara Wood and Tyler Little. The other good witch, Glinda, will be played by Amanda Williams. Aunt Em is Grace Terry, who also dances as part of the Yellow Brick Road ensemble along with Katie Griggs, Jessica Dunbar and Laurelle Bryington. The Wicked With of the West, Evillene, will be played by Maggie Lucero.

Karen Gunning's Art Club is busy painting the sets built by Terry Eccleston and Frank Wood. Holly Faulk and Katie Griggs are in charge of choreography.

Diners turned out in force at the Reynoldsville Methodist Church. (Photo by Don Romeo)

300 turn out in support of Kristina Burke

Special to The Odessa File

REYNOLDSVILLE, March 2 -- About 300 diners turned out Saturday, Feb. 27 at the Reynoldsville United Methodist Church for a dinner, auction and music in support of Kristina Jaynes Burke of Reynoldsville.

Burke has been battling breast cancer.

The benefit held in her honor included homemade spaghetti, meatballs and dessert prepared by members of the church. A bake sale and Chinese auction also took place, and music was provided in the church by "Absolute A Capella," a group from Cornell Universtiy.

According to an account provided to this website by Joy Canfield Crane:

"Kristina has had a year that most people would never be able to imagine. Finding a lump in her breast in January 2009, she was later diagnosed with breast cancer ... when she was eight months pregnant. From then on, her life was just a whirl of frenzy.

"Having a newborn baby and beginning chemotherapy was only the beginning. In November, Kristina had a double mastectomy with reconstructive surgery. After returning to a very demanding job and taking care of nine-month-old Kristofer and his big sister Kaylynn, who is five years old, Kristina faced the piling of medical bills and co-payments.

"The Burke family is very grateful for all who came out to support them during their time of need, and to all the businesses that donated goods and services for the event."

Photos in text: Kitchen workers were busy at the benefit dinner on Feb. 27 (Photo by Don Romeo); Kristina Jaynes Burke and her children (File photo)

The "Absolute A Capella" group performed at the Burke benefit. (Photo by Don Romeo)

Coaching certification training set

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, March 2 -- The Arc of Schuyler will host a Special Olympics coaching certification training on Friday, March 12 from noon to 3 p.m. on the elementary basketball court at the Watkins Glen Field House.

The training will meet the first two of five requirements in completing the Special Olympics Coach certification process, including a general orientation and basic introduction to Special Olympics, as well as a sports specific course in basketball and approaches to coaching individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Additional steps in the certification process include working 10 hours with Special Olympics athletes and an experienced coach, completing the Special Olympics Application for Sports Training Certification, and submission of confirmed completion of the Protective Behaviors training program. Instructions on how to complete these final steps will also be given on March 12.

This is a free training. Participants must be at least 16 years old, and be registered by March 11. For more information or to enroll, contact The Arc of Schuyler at 607-535-6934.

Special Olympics is an international organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and promoting communities of understanding, acceptance, respect and inclusion.

Cargill provides grant to Food Bank

Special to The Odessa File

ELMIRA, March 1 -- The Food Bank of the Southern Tier has announced that it has received a grant of $11,800 from Cargill, Incorporated. In addition, Cargill provided a donation of 1,536 pounds of ground beef and 9,632 pounds of salt to the Food Bank.

A total of $1,500 will be used to purchase a salt spreader for the Food Bank's use. The remainder of the grant funds will be used to help fund the Food Bank's BackPack Program in Schuyler County.

Said Don Chutas, Cargill Salt's plant manager in Watkins Glen: "Cargill has a Global Partnership Fund Program which provides individual locations with matching grants to charities that address short- and long-term hunger in our communities. Having this type of corporate commitment allows us to do great things at our local level."

The Cargill Salt plant was founded in 1898 as the Watkins Salt Plant. It was acquired by Cargill, Incorporated in 1976. Cargill Salt employs about 100 people.

ARTS Council awards grants

Special to The Odessa File

CORNING, Feb. 28 -- The ARTS Council of the Southern Finger Lakes in partnership with the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) has announced the 2010 Decentralization community arts grants award recipients.

Twenty-eight area organizations and artists -- including four in Schuyler County -- will receive a total of $58,375 for community-based arts and cultural programs taking place in 2010. The grants provide financial and technical assistance for community-based arts activities offered by eligible nonprofit organizations and individual artists sponsored by nonprofit organizations in Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben and Tioga counties.

An award ceremony to honor the awardees and distribute the grants will be held Monday, March 29, from 5-7 p.m. at the Dormann Library, 101 West Morris St., Bath.

The Schuyler County recipients:

· Dutton S. Peterson Memorial Library: $835 to present "A Mosaic of Creativity at the Library"
· Episcopal Parishes of Schuyler County: $2,000 to present "Schuyler County Concert Series IV"
· The Lake Country Players: $1,000 to present Junior Players production "Annie Junior"; $1,000 to present the Fall Show "Pirates of Penzance"; and $500 to present the understudies production "This Is Where We Came In"
· Watkins Glen Public Library: $835 to present "A Mosaic of Creativity at the Library"

Interact Club member Haleigh Wixson waits on a table at the Steak Dinner.

Arc Steak Dinner draws a crowd

MONTOUR FALLS, Feb. 28 -- More than 200 diners visited the Montour Moose Lodge Saturday night for the annual Arc of Schuyler Steak Dinner, which raises funds for the Arc's programs and supports.

This event has been a partnership between the local Moose Lodge and The Arc for 20-plus years. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families benefit since all of the money raised is used for local Arc programs and supports.

Volunteers from the Moose Lodge, The Arc, the Watkins Glen High School Interact Club and other community organizations worked side by side at the dinner, as cooks, dishwashers, wait staff and greeters.

The Arc provides support to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families throughout Schuyler County. For more information on supports or services, visit The Arc's website at www.arcofschuyler.org

Photo in text: Diner Matt Hayden was among the 200-plus people enjoying the meal.

Left: Interact Club kitchen workers Ethan Roth and Jenna Swarthout. Right: Diner Tom Harrison.

A plow turns into a store parking lot off of Church Street in Odessa Thursday night.

Snow intensifies, and piles up

ODESSA, Feb. 26 -- The snow, intermittent all day long, increased a notch late Thursday and overnight into Friday as the storm system moving across the Twin Tiers slowed and intensified. The result: increasing mounds of snow, increased drifting and increasingly difficult driving.

Plows kept busy throughout the day Thursday, and were out in force after dark, trying to stay ahead of the accumulations. But by 5 a.m. Friday, school officials realized that bus transportation was not an option, and canceled classes for the second straight day. Watkins Glen, Odessa-Montour and Bradford had all announced they were closed by 5:05 a.m.

Those actions followed an announcement Thursday night that all of the county-level courts in the 10-county 6th Judicial District, including Schuyler, would be closed Friday. That included County Court, Family Court, Surrogate Court and Supreme Court.

Forecasters said that by the time the storm abated, many areas in the Southern Tier saw a total of 7 to 20 inches of snow -- with drifts of two to three feet. And that meant a long period of digging out.

Left: Snow piles up on a patio table. Right: Snow was obscuring a sign in Odessa.

Forest snowmobile trails will stay open longer

Special to The Odessa File

HECTOR, Feb. 26 -- The snowmobile trails in the Finger Lakes National Forest will remain open until March 15, as long as trail conditions warrant snowmobile usage. The snowmobile trail system normally closes on March 1 of each year.

“This year, with the end-of-season snowstorms, we have more snowpack than normal,” said Forestry Technician Rebecca Wright, “and the conditions are great for snowmobilers."

For more information, contact the Finger Lakes National Forest office at 607-546-4470.

Tardy pedometers delay Schuyler Steps Out

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Feb. 24 -- The fourth annual Schuyler Steps Out free community walking program has been postponed.

A spokesperson said the program, which had been scheduled to begin with an opening celebration and informational session today, was delayed because a needed pedometer shipment has yet to arrive.

The kick-off will now be held on Friday, March 5 at 1 p.m. in the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility Activities Room at Schuyler Hospital. The program itself will run from March 8 through May 2.

Thus far, almost 700 walkers have registered, representing 34 teams.

In 2009, a record 662 walkers on 33 teams logged 673 million total steps, or 337,000 miles – the equivalent of 13 1/2 trips around the Earth.

Schuyler Steps Out is a partnership between Schuyler Hospital, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, Wal-Mart, Sullivan Trail Red Cross, Lakewood Vineyards, and Chemung Canal Trust Company.

For more information, contact hospital Community Relations Director Michelle Benjamin at (607) 535-8879 or stepsout@schuylerhospital.org

Photo in text: One of last year's pedometers. (File photo)

Girl Scouts are looking for a logo

Special to The Odessa File

HORSEHEADS, Feb. 23 – Girl Scouts of NYPENN Pathways, Inc. are inviting Girl Scouts and non-Girl Scouts, girls and adults, to put their creative thinking caps on to develop a unifying logo that can be used as the council patch, on print materials, and on retail items.

The design, a Girl Scout spokesperson said, "must represent our brand of being the premiere leadership development program for girls. It should distinguish us from other councils around the country and be adaptable to various mediums." The logo design becomes the property of Girl Scouts of NYPENN Pathways, Inc. The deadline to submit a logo is March 5.

The design can be submitted to Judy Gallagher, Director of Marketing & Communications, electronically in a .tif or .jpg file to jgallagher@gsnypenn.org, or via mail to 300 Route 318, Phelps, NY 14532. Make sure all contact information is included with the submission.

The entries will be judged by council-area media representatives. The winning design will be unveiled at the first NYPENN annual meeting on May 22. The winner of the design will receive a $20 gift card to the Girl Scout stores.

For more information contact Kim Dunne at (315) 733-2391, ext. 23 or kdunne@gsnypenn.org; or Judy Gallagher at (315) 539-5085, ext. 2121 or jgallagher@gsnypenn.org.

The largest apartment, a penthouse unit of 3,000 square feet, has a loft.

Montour House project nears completion

MONTOUR FALLS, Feb. 13 -- The Montour House was opened for public tours again Friday night -- in what has become a monthly ritual for many area residents.

While indications had been that this would be the final open house, spokesperson Maggie Martin said a second-Friday open house will continue in future months, but without highlighting area wines and cheeses. The Montour Coffee Shop is open now on the premises, so thirsts can be quenched there.

Four of the building's 10 apartments have been completed and rented, and one of two penthouse apartments -- the largest at 3,000 square feet -- is nearing completion. Its monthly rental tag will be $1,695. A second penthouse apartment, complete with a windowed smoking room held over from years gone by, is farther from completion.

There will be a total of 10 rental units upstairs, with the ground floor occupied by a doctor's office, Schuyler Hospital business office, Elmira Savings Bank office, coffee shop and community meeting room at the rear of the shop.

Owner-developer Bruce Nelson said his next project, the Rural Urban Center renovation into residential and commercial space with a possible performing arts center, will probably begin this summer. "There's still a lot of planning to do," he said.

Photo in text: Developer Bruce Nelson at Friday's open house.

The Montour Coffee Shop, which had a "soft opening" recently, will have a grand opening in late February.

Firefighters traverse the spot where a workshop stood.

Fire damages home overlooking Watkins

WATKINS GLEN, Feb. 12 -- Fire of an undetermined origin heavily damaged a home and leveled an attached workshop Thursday off Route 409 above Watkins Glen.

The blaze, at the home of Chris Wickham, began about 4 p.m. in the workshop, fire officials said. The cause was not yet known.

Watkins Glen Assistant Fire Chief Judson Smith said the fire was well under way before anybody noticed -- and that in fact he might have been the first to see it.

"I was coming out of Jerlando's and looked up the hill and saw the smoke," he said. "Then I started the process to fight it."

Firefighters from Watkins Glen, Montour Falls and Tyrone raced to the scene, a remote locale on Upper Division Street.

"It was freaking rolling when we got here," said one firefighter about the fire.

Added Smith. "We knocked it down in about 25 minutes, and then dealt with hot spots for an hour."

Nobody was home at the time, and no firefighting injuries were reported.

Photo in text: Firefighters study the home after the blaze was extinguished.

Firefighters hose down the site that held the workshop.

Museum site list is down to 2

Special to The Odessa File

DANSVILLE, Feb. 8 -- First there were 19. Then there were five. Now there are two.

John Adamski, president of the Board of Trustees of the planned Finger Lakes Cultural & Natural History Museum, says that the Site Selection Committee has referred two museum sites to the board for further assessment. They are the Geneva/Seneca Lake State Park site along the lakefront in Geneva and Keuka Lake State Park near Branchport. Both sites offer lake frontage.

No longer in contention are the Bush Farm in Ledyard, the Wells College campus in Aurora, and Sampson State Park in Romulus. Sponsors of those sites were informed of the decision, and in a show of commitment and dedication, each pledged to continue supporting the project.

Adamski said a great deal of effort was put into proposals from the five site sponsors and that each had to be fairly evaluated. Site selection committee members logged more than 150 hours in multiple site visits, committee meetings, and deliberations, not to mention uncounted miles that were driven.

The committee has asked the board to consider a comparative marketing study to help determine which of the two remaining sites would be the most viable.

“The advantage that the Geneva site has is its central location, which is close to the Thruway and halfway between Rochester and Syracuse," said Adamski. "The benefit of the Keuka Lake site is its intimate lakefront and wilder setting, which is more conducive to outdoor wildlife exhibits.”

The museum site would include natural habitats to showcase native wild animals such as bald eagles, beavers, black bears, coyotes, foxes, otters, and the unique Seneca White Deer.

Plans call for the proposed $40 million project to be primarily funded by private donations and corporate grants. A committee is working on a fund-raising program.

Hospital Auxiliary awards bond to baby

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Feb. 7 -- The Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary recently awarded a $50 savings bond to the hospital’s first baby of the new year.

Damion Allen Cady was born to Cassandra Povero and Chet Cady at Schuyler Hospital on January 1, 2010.

Auxiliary Vice-President Clara Greis presented the savings bond to the family,

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

Photo in text: Cassandra Povero and Chet Cady flank their baby as Clara Greis presents a check. (Photo provided)

Schuyler Teen Center is going dark ... but maybe not for long

WATKINS GLEN, Feb. 3 -- Daily operation of the Schuyler Teen Center will be ending soon, but the center could be the site of occasional events while its sponsor, Catholic Charities, devises a strategy for possibly reopening it on a regular basis in the future.

Funding shortfalls created by a loss of federal grant funds -- and a decision to retool the center concept to possibly attract some serious and "sustainable" financial backing -- led Catholic Charities to its decision. As part of its planning, it is turning to community leaders and other residents for their opinions and encouragement.

"I want to stress that daily operations are closing," said Paul Marx, agency director for Catholic Charities in Schuyler County. "We don't want to say the Teen Center is closing."

The center, which opened at 208 N. Franklin St. in Watkins Glen in 2006, will end its daily hours on Feb. 26. The hours are 2-6 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, and 2-8 on Thursday.

Catholic Charities, which also sponsors afterschool programs at the Watkins Glen Middle School -- the long-running Watkins Glen Youth Center and the 21st Century program, both state-funded -- had hoped to keep the Teen Center going daily through May.

"But running a center that helps teens develop into adulthood is pretty expensive," said Marx. The budget the past two years has been $80,000 per year -- and was more before that, when federal funding was being received.

The future of the center will hinge on the outcome of strategic planning, which Marx said will hopefully lead to foundation funds. Toward that end, he said, he is urging community members to write to him or Andrea Mattoon -- grants manager for Catholic Charities in Schuyler and Chemung counties -- expressing "support for the center and any thoughts on it moving forward." Those letters will prove helpful, he said, when Catholic Charities approaches foundations for future funding.

The center, operating now with a skeletal staff that includes Director Dwayne Followell, life skills instructor Mary Anne Combs and Nancy Brand -- along with volunteers -- caters to about a dozen teens a day. Between 70 and 80 different individuals utilize its services, said Marx.

Teens at the center were informed of the decision last week, and "the reaction was overall disappointment," said Mattoon. "For many of them, it's a second home, where they hang out with their friends. It's their place. Those who use it on a regular basis will definitely miss it."

Despite fund-raisers in two consecutive years at the Watkins Glen Community Center, despite other fund-raising efforts by the teens, and despite all the volunteerism, the decision to terminate daily operations -- at least for now -- had to be made, said Marx.

When he came on board as agency director on Sept. 1, he said, "I came in thinking change was inevitable" at the center.

But in making the change, Mattoon said, "we decided we wanted to build it stronger and more sustainable."

But first comes a careful study of the situation -- a reading of the community's wants and needs regarding its teens. Occasional -- but as yet undetermined -- events might be held at the center while the study is ongoing, Mattoon said.

Then ... who knows?

Marx can envision -- with proper funding -- a main center with satellites elsewhere in the county, connected by bus service. A developing county-run bus line could contribute toward that goal.

"The bottom line," he said, "is we're a little disappointed we came to this point. But we couldn't just walk away. We're dedicated to putting in the time and energy to develop a strategic plan" -- one that will answer in a practical fashion the question: "What's next?"

Photos in text:

From top: The Schuyler Teen Center, Paul Marx and Andrea Mattoon.

Photography classes for youths planned

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Jan. 30 -- With digital cameras becoming more and more common, area youths can learn to master this fast-growing technology at 4-H photography classes offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension's Schuyler County 4-H Youth Development.

Youth ages 10+ are invited to the Schuyler County Human Services Complex on Feb. 20, March 6, and March 13, from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. each day, for a 3-part series. Pre-registration is required by Feb. 5, and there is a $15 fee ($10 for 4-H members).

Participants will learn to use a digital camera to take a good photo, take live shots of animals, and edit their images using specialized software. Bring a digital camera if you have one – but no cell phone or disposable cameras.

To register, contact Cate at 607-535-7161 or email schuyler4h@cornell.edu

Bye Bye Birdie rehearsals start at WGHS

(The following account of preparations for the Watkins Glen High School spring musical, Bye Bye Birdie, was provided by Tim Benjamin, who is directing with his wife Michelle).

WATKINS GLEN, Jan. 11 -- The Watkins Glen class of 2010 got under way for their Spring Musical, “Bye Bye Birdie,” with a read-through and a few theater games on Monday, January 4th. That rehearsal was the first of 32 leading up to Tech Week. The show will curtain at the Watkins Glen High School Auditorium March 26th-28th.

The cast is small, with 26 students making it to the first rehearsal. Though small, their enthusiasm was evident as they read through the script and listened to parts of the soundtrack to give everyone an idea of the storyline and songs.

The story, originally titled “Let's Go Steady,” was written in 1958 and was meant to be a satire on American society in the late 1950's. After a re-write and title change (“Love and Kisses”), the writers and producers decided it needed something more. That something more was inspired by the U.S. Army when it drafted Elvis Presley. The decision was made to create a storyline based on exploring the effects that having a rock 'n' roll idol drafted into the service would have on rural American teens.

The story opens when Albert Peterson (Eric Mack), president of cash-strapped Almaelou Music Company, is on the phone with the general in charge of the Draft Board, pleading to rescind Conrad Birdie's (Cam Fitch's) draft orders. Conrad is Almaelou's only client. As you may guess, the Army declines to let Birdie stay a civilian. Rosie Alvarez (Haleigh Wixson), Albert's secretary and fiancee, cooks up a scheme to pay off all of Almaelou's debt while Birdie is in the Army in exchange for a favor. But life isn't so simple because Albert has to contend with Mae (Marguerite Kellogg), his overbearing mother, a jealous boyfriend, a pack of overexcited teens, angry parents, the Shriners and a botched appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show.

Because of the number of walk-on speaking roles and the smaller size of the cast, all of the students participating will have a chance to be featured in the production. Indeed, like “Seussical” last year, the chorus will be literally running to change costumes to make it on stage for the next scene.

As in the past, Michelle and I are putting students in leadership roles in the production. Brenton Whiting has volunteered to be our Stage Manager, easily the busiest person on a show night, responsible for the smooth running of the show once Tech Week begins at the end of March.

Four of our students, Emily Pazar, Kelsey Johnson, Marguerite Kellogg and Meredith Johnson, are going to share choreography duties. Sarah Teed is Props Manager. Not a student, but tremendously talented, Sarah Matthews is back as Musical Director for what is our 6th production for WGHS' Senior Class.

The cast, in order of appearance, is as follows.

ALBERT PETERSON -- Eric Mack
ROSE ALVAREZ -- Haleigh Wixson
MAE PETERSON -- Marguerite Kellogg
KIM MACAFEE -- Jenna Gimbar
HUGO PEABODY -- Marshall Secord
MRS. DORIS MACAFEE -- Kelsey Johnson
MR. HARRY MACAFEE -- Throsby Wells
RANDOLPH MACAFEE -- Homer Wixson
CONRAD BIRDIE -- Cameron Fitch
MAYOR -- Zachary Dvornicky-Raymond
MAYOR'S WIFE -- Stacey Teed
GLORIA RASPUTIN -- Sarah Huey
URSULA MERKLE -- Shannon Hazlitt
NANCY -- Elena Likoudis
HELEN -- Sarah Bond
SUSIE -- Meredith Johnson
PENELOPE -- Rachel St. Julien
ALICE -- Sarah LaMascus
MARGIE -- Emily Pazar
DEBORAH SUE -- Lee Ann Gezzi
HARVEY JOHNSON -- Preston Roberts
MRS. MERKLE -- Taryn Hayes
MR. JOHNSON -- Moritz Schrader
MAUDE -- Jacq Goehner
MAUDE'S DISHWASHER -- Thomas Wickham
MAUDE'S FIRST CUSTOMER -- Jacob Ribaudo
MAUDE'S 2ND CUSTOMER -- Billy Brennan
CHORUS: Haley DeNardo, Chris Carlton, Elise Groll, Devon Crispell, Chelsea Kennard, Joseph Daughmer, Maggie Myers, Braedon Fitch, Stephanie Rhoads

Photos in text:

Top: From left, Throsby Wells, Homer Wixson and Kelsey Johnson.

Middle: Haleigh Wixson, who plays Rose Alvarez

Bottom: Cameron Fitch, who portrays Conrad Birdie (Photos provided)

The host Chamber of Commerce greeting team of, from left, Miranda O. Polmanteer, Emily Hubbell, Rebekah LeMoreaux and Katie Strawser.

Chamber holds its annual celebration

WATKINS GLEN, Jan. 9 -- More than 350 people were on hand Friday night at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel for the annual Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce celebration.

The gathering, in the hotel ballroom, featured dinner, prizes, dancing to the music of Willie Hayes and the Led Foot, and the presentation of awards to honorees Peggy Scott (Community Spirit), developer Bruce Nelson (Leader in Business), and the Schamel Brothers, Michael and Guy (Lifetime Achievement).

Scott was honored "for her commitment and dedication with the Seneca Santa project and the United Way Campaign."

Nelson was honored for his achievement in renovating the Montour House and his plan to renovate the Rural Urban Center in Montour Falls.

The Schamels were cited "for business accomplishments that include but aren't limited to Schamel Brothers' Contractors, the Village Marina, and the Village Marina Bar and Grill."

The evening began with a social hour that was followed by dinner, a welcome by Chamber President Max Neal, the National Anthem sung by Susan Hartney, and an Invocation by the Rev. Michael Hartney.

Following dinner, remarks were issued by Visions Federal Credit Union president Frank Berrish, by outgoing Chamber Chairman of the Board Thomas Phillips, and by incoming Board Chairman Debra Whiting. Award presentations followed.

Then came the dancing.

Photos in text:

Top: Lou Cicconi performs as part of the Led Foot band.

Bottom: Honoree Peggy Scott and her husband, Jim.

Left: Musician Willie Hayes sings. Right: Tony Vickio and his wife, Harriett.

Left: Bartenders Jesse Schubmehl, foreground, and Kai D'Alleva. Right: Chamber president Max Neal welcomes those attending the celebration.

Assemblyman Tom O'Mara, right, talks with Corning Enterprises president Tom Tranter.

Left: Norrie Cornelius, left, and Cheryl Hazlitt were among those present. Right: Bruce Nelson, honored for his renovation work in Montour Falls.

Flickering flames provide a backdrop at the scene on Kayder Road.

Scenes from late-night fire

ODESSA, Jan. 5 -- Firefighters from several departments were called out late Monday night to the scene of a trailer-home fire at 5465 Kayder Road in the Town of Catharine.

The structure was fully engaged when the Odessa department arrived after the 11:23 p.m. call, so a second alarm was issued, bringing mutual aid from the Mecklenburg, Montour Falls, Newfield and Burdett fire departments. Watkins Glen firefighters provided standby coverage for Odessa.

The cause of the blaze, officials said, was "flammable material stored too close to a wood stove." The blaze destroyed the eastern end of the building, and the rest was heavily damaged by smoke, fire and water.

The building is located at the end of Kayder, where the one-lane dirt road narrows to a track leading into the adjacent woods.

Odessa Fire Chief John Jelliff said the structure was rented by a single male occupant who arrived home after firefighters had been at the scene for a couple of hours. The resident told fire officials he had another place he could stay for the night. The name of the structure's owner was not available.

Left: Water from a tanker pours into a gathering pool. Right: Odessa Chief John Jelliff.

A fellow firefighter helps Odessa's John Dorn don an air pack.

The scene as the fire was brought under control.

Arc of Schuyler raises $6,256 for United Way

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Dec. 28 -- The Arc of Schuyler recently completed its in-house Schuyler County United Way Campaign and in that process raised a total of $6,256 for local charities and agencies supported by the United Way through employee donations and various events.

Glen Industries, a division of The Arc, receives financial support through the United Way each year.

This year employees of The Arc also contributed toys and gifts to support Seneca Santa, another Schuyler County United Way recipient. More than 160 gifts were collected and turned over to Seneca Santa for distribution to needy children in Schuyler County.

Internally, employees of The Arc also collected canned goods and other food items to be distributed on Christmas Eve to a number of individuals and families supported by The Arc who are facing some particular hardships this season.

Said Jim Wilson, executive director of The Arc: "This year, everyone is feeling economic stress, but our employees recognize that there are always those who are less fortunate."

The Arc of Schuyler operates various levels of residential supports for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as case management, service coordination, educational, vocational and transportation supports. For more information on The Arc, visit www.arcofschuyler.org or call 607 535 6934.

Renee Riley-Brubaker, left, and Damita Chamberlain were part of a trio, with Melissa Norton, that performed front and center on Soli Deo Gloria.

Cantata Singers present rousing Only Love

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Dec. 21 -- A 40-person choir presented an entertaining and often rousing non-denominational Community Christmas Cantata Sunday night at the Montour Falls United Methodist Church -- an annual event that this year was titled Only Love.

Only Love, created by arranger Jay Rouse and lyricist Randy Vader, presents songs and readings in creatively packaged sections, each highlighting a particular facet of the Christmas story.

As in Cantatas past, Odessa-Montour Music Teacher Kim Caldwell directed. Her many directing credits include high school productions such as Footloose, Fiddler on the Roof, Oklahoma and Grease. She promised that this year’s cantata would be an uplifting experience, and judging from the loud and lengthy applause that greeted several numbers, she was right. The event drew more than 100 music lovers to the Church.

Singers of all ages were in the choir -- which was joined by a small children's choir for a musical number midway through the cantata.

Photo in text: Richard Little sings a solo during Infant Heart of God.

Left: Michelle Banach sings a solo during the song Only Love. Right: Melissa Norton belts out a solo during You Better Get Ready.

Left: Nan Woodworth-Shaw presents a reading. Right: Matthew Norton sings a solo on What Kind Of King?

From left: Greg Chamberlain, Bill Christofels and Wayne Shaffer perform as a trio during Wise Men From the East.

Left: A member of the children's choir wore a seasonal cap. Right: Soloist Emily Johnson.

Michelle LaDue-Benjamin presents a reading.

Left to right: Choir members Donna Christofels, Gene Holleran and Jane Daum.

Still waters

Docks and markers along the eastern shore of the canal running between Montour Falls and Watkins Glen offered nearly perfect reflections in the still waters of a recent afternoon. This shot was snapped from a point along the Catharine Valley Trail.

Left: Kelly Muir dances to the music. Right: Celebrity Chef William Cornelius.

Hazlitt party raises Seneca Santa funds

HECTOR, Dec. 13 -- The crowd was thick, the wine free-flowing, the food plentiful and the music loud and easy to dance to Saturday as Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards hosted its 12th annual Seneca Santa Charity Party.

The event, designed to raise funds to help buy Christmas presents through the Seneca Santa program for underprivileged children in Schuyler County, featured live music by rock and blues musicians; celebrity chefs like Chef William; and guest bartenders like County Administrator Tim O'Hearn, DA Joe Fazzary, and County Legislature Chairman Tom Gifford.

A $10 entry charge, raffles and games helped raise funds for Seneca Santa, which was established in the 1940s by a group of Watkins Glen businessmen who wanted to provide Christmas gifts for underprivileged kids up to age 12. The organization is serving nearly 400 children from more than 175 families in the county.

The Hazlitt party raised more than $115,000 in its first 11 years, including $20,000 last year.

Photo in text: Watkins Glen School Superintendent Tom Phillips, left, and Assemblyman Tom O'Mara arrive at the Seneca Santa Party.

Left: Bartenders at the party. Right: Val Richardson listens to the band.

A trio celebrates about midway through Saturday's party.

Left: Guest bartender Dominick Franzese. Right: Lou Cicconi provides vocals as the band plays a lively number.

These two women were dancing up a storm directly in front of the band.

Left: Band member Scott Muir plays the harmonica. Right: Watkins Glen International track president Michael Printup, left, talks with guest bartender Tom Gifford.

Kirk Peters and wife Marie Fitzsimmons pay close attention to the musicians' offerings.

Left: A couple of party employees pose. Right: Guest bartender Joe Fazzary.

Guitarist Willie Hayes adds vocals to a song.

From left: Joan Argetsinger, Jean Argetsinger and Patricia Ellison. (Photo provided)

League holds traditional Membership Tea

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Dec. 11 -- On Wednesday, December 9, Joan Argetsinger opened her home in Montour Falls to greet 25 members of the Schuyler County League of Women Voters to the League’s Membership Tea.

The 25 braved a snowstorm that day in order to attend. Once there, they were warmed by the tea, poured by Mrs. William (Patricia) Ellison and Mrs. William (Rita) Newell.

A brief overview of membership benefits was offered by Donna Beardsley, Secretary and Chair of the Membership Committee. The League has been in existence in Schuyler County for 57 years.

Max Neal, President of the League, took the opportunity to recognize Jean Argetsinger, who was present at the Tea, and thank her not only for being the force behind the creation of the League all those years ago, but also as the person who created and implemented the idea of an annual membership tea.

Neal pointed out that Mrs. Ellison joined Mrs. Argetsinger in those early years and "contributed equally to the success of the League."

The purpose of the tea is to recognize current members, bring potential members to the Tea, and enjoy fellowship during the Holiday Season.

With the exception of a few years when the Tea was skipped, it has become a tradition and, says Neal, "hopefully will continue for another 57 years."

Neal presented Mrs. Argetsinger and Mrs. Ellison with antique tea cups, saying:

“Jean, we’re sure you have china and tea cups to feed the whole racing community, and Pat enough tea cups to serve tea to the whole State judicial system. However, we would like you to add one more tea cup to your inventory … a token of our appreciation for the work, guidance, commitment and dedication you have shared with the League over the years. Perhaps when you look at this little tea cup, you will remember, with pleasure, the wonderful times that surround the years of Membership Teas hosted by the League.”

Carol Bower and her team catered the lunch, which was organized by Joanne McLaine.

Photos in text:

Top: From left: Ellen Coleman, Virginia Houseknecht and Carole Gifford.

Bottom: Betty Scott, left, and Carol Bower of Bower Catering. (Photos provided)

A horse-drawn carriage transported Santa and Mrs. Claus in the parade.

Watkins observes season with its Village Christmas

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Dec. 5 -- The annual Watkins Glen Village Christmas was greeted by mild weather and a sizable crowd Friday night.

Live entertainment, the 5th annual Chowder Cook-off, a parade and fireworks provided plenty for the downtown visitors to enjoy.

The pictures here were snapped up and down Franklin Street during the festivities.

Photo in text: Aboard the Hazlitt parade float.

Cub Scouts were among the marchers in the Christmas Parade.

Photographer Ralph Guasp was on hand with a display of his work in the Franklin St. Gallery.

Left: Watkins Glen Mayor Judy Phillips. Right: Chef William fills a cup with chowder.

Tiger Cubs march up Franklin Street during the parade.

Fire trucks are an integral part of the parade each year.

Youth Center kids participated in the parade.

Schuyler Hospital personnel recreated the Manger scene, and marched in the parade.

His Tabernacle was represented by music and dancing in the parade.

David Scott, left, and Cindy Scott in a scene from "Gift of the Magi," which members of the Lake Country Players performed in the board room of Village Hall.

A barbershop quartet, Exchequer, performed in front of the Post Office.

The Nutcracker in Motion float, an annual entrant, was among the parade participants.

The starting point in the packing was a stack of small boxes full of Christmas stocking-like items.

Moose Lodge preps packages for troops

MONTOUR FALLS, Dec. 3 -- It was troop-package night Wednesday at the Montour Moose Lodge, with teens and adults pitching in to prepare 200 packages of various items for U.S. troops serving overseas.

Moose Lodge members, Interact Club members from Odessa-Montour High School and various volunteers grabbed boxes from a stack in the corner of the Lodge's dining room, got in line and filled the containers full of useful items, all leading to a mass mailing the next day.

The Moose Lodge started its troop mailings in July 2004, and has sent off 10 shipments. With the latest 200 boxes, the total over the years will have topped 1,200. Mailings go primarily to Iraq and Afghanistan, but also to troops in Korea, Germany and other locales.

Boxes contain such items as baby wipes, batteries, a flashlight, a "stocking" box full of candy and other goodies, bag candy, nutrition bars, chapstick, instant cofffee, peanuts, playing cards, body and foot powder, Ramen noodles, Slim Jims, socks, a toothbrush, toothpaste and tuna fish.

Postage is the biggest expense. Boxes are sent Air Mail Flat Rate Priority.

Where does the money come from?

"This year," the Lodge said in a press release, "the Moose raised funds with a chicken barbecue, a rolled-cabbage dinner, a breakfast, and raffles. Cash donations came from Moose members, and from veterans organizations in the area such as the Watkins Glen AMVETS, VFW and American Legion. Once again this year Jason Slottje, the owner of the Dollar Food Corporation, donated a truck full of goods and a generous check for postage."

Photos in text:

Top: Interact Club members pick items from tables arranged in the Moose Lodge. The Ayers twins, Rebecca and Whitney, are at left, with Sarah Crane at right.

Bottom: Interact's Stephanie Letteer, left, was among the packing volunteers, as was O-M National Junior Honor Society member Candice Kemmerer, right.

Troop mailing volunteers go over a checklist of the items available for each box, along with the postal requirements.

Sarah Schlueter-Eisman and Anthony Curren in a scene Saturday from Babes in Toyland.

Babes in Toyland ends its 3-day run

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Nov. 14 -- The Lake Country Players production of the century-old musical "Babes in Toyland" was staged for its third and final time Sunday.

Toyland, which features favorite Mother Goose characters in a fairytale adventure, was presented before a large and enthusiastic audience in the Watkins Glen High School. Auditorium.

Some may remember the 1934 Laurel and Hardy film version of "Toyland," while others might recall the 1961 version with Annette Funicello and Ray Bolger, a 1986 movie with Drew Barrymore and Keanu Reeves, or a 1997 animated version with Christopher Plummer.

It has taken many shapes with many stars, but in any shape it has been a popular play.

Audiences at WGHS were transported from Mother Goose Land to Toyland, with love, comedy, intrigue, villains, and lots of song and dance thrown in. They met the Widow Piper and her 14 children, including Contrary Mary, Tom-Tom the Piper's Son, Bo Peep, Little Red, and Jack and Jill, plus gypsies, spiders, toys that came alive, and more.

Songs included “March of the Toys,” “Toyland” and “Rock-a-Bye-Baby.”

Tracy Gavich directed, with Renee Riley as Music Director, Donna Christoffels as Accompanist, and Michelle L. Benjamin choreographing.

The show featured David Scott as the evil Uncle Barnaby, Jason Finch as the Toymaker, Phil Kruk and Dale Jacobs as the inept Roderigo and Gonzorgo, Kim Jacobs as the Widow Piper, and Tom Primerano as the bumbling Inspector Marmaduke. Also featured were Tyler Stevens as Tom-Tom, Erica Fiori as Contrary Mary, Anthony Curren as Alan, Sarah Schlueter-Eisman as Jane, Sam Capozzi as Grumio, Cara Bender as Jill, and Melissa Norton as Hilda.

Forty other performers – from children to adults – rounded out the cast.

******

Photos in text:

Top: Tyler Stevens sings to young members of the cast in a scene Saturday night.

Middle: Tom Primerano as Inspector Marmaduke takes a tumble.

Bottom: Phil Kruk as Roderigo -- partner of Gonzorgo -- plays a scene Saturday night

Left: Sarah Schlueter-Eisman as Jane. Right: Sam Capozzi, left, and Anthony Curren.

From left: Jason Finch as the Master Toymaker, Dale Jacobs as Gonzorgo, and Michelle Benjamin as a toy soldier.

Left: David Scott as Uncle Barnaby. Right: Erica Fiori as Contrary Mary.

The conclusion of the song "I Can't Do the Sum," featuring Sarah Schlueter-Eisman, center, and a group of children.

Left: Kim Jacobs as Widow Piper. Right: Gene Holleran as a toy soldier.

Left: Amanda Williams dances during a scene Saturday night. Right: Tyler Stevens.

Scenes from the final day:

Meg Cabezas as a widow and Anthony Curren as Alan in a scene near the end of the play.

Left: David Scott's Uncle Barnaby hops around. Right: Sarah Schlueter-Eisman as Jane.

Jason Finch exults as the evil Master Toymaker.

Phil Kruk as Roderigo interacts with audience members during a scene late in the play.

Left: Tom Primerano as Inspector Marmaduke. Right: Damita Chamberlain as a toy soldier.

Children were an important part of the cast.

David Scott's Barnaby goes through an exaggerated death scene after drinking poison.

And on opening night Friday:

A spider observes Alan and Jane, seated on a rock, and visible in shadows here.

Left: Charlie Cole backstage before the start of the play. Right: Director Tracy Gavich welcomes the audience to the play.

Left: David Scott as Uncle Barnaby scowls after being knocked to the floor. Right: Holly Campbell portrays a butterfly set free from a spider web by Anthony Curren's Alan.

Sarah Schlueter-Eisman leads young cast members in a song titled "I Can't Do the Sum."

A musical number on opening night of Babes in Toyland.

Left: David Scott as Uncle Barnaby, bathed in red light. Right: Sarah Schlueter-Eisman as Jane and Anthony Curren as Alan in a scene from opening night.

And at dress rehearsal on Wednesday, Nov. 11:

Jason Finch as the Toymaker is surrounded by young cast members in this "Toyland" scene.

Anthony Curren as Alan, right, mimics the odd walk of David Scott as Uncle Barnaby.

Meg Cabezas, left, and Damita Chamberlain tend to a Christmas tree in a scene from "Babes in Toyland."

Erica Fiori as Contrary Mary with Tom Primerano as Inspector Marmaduke.

Holly Campbell portrays a butterfly caught in a spider's web, but freed by Anthony Curren's Alan.

Left: David Scott as Uncle Barnaby, left, and Jason Finch as the Toymaker. Right: Sarah Schlueter-Eisman as Jane.

The Fontainebleau Inn was bathed in sunlight Sunday afternoon.

Sweets, sketches, songs raise library funds

ODESSA, Nov. 9 -- The second annual "Sweets, Spirits, Sketches & Songs" at Fontainebleau Inn along Route 228 offered plenty of attractions for supporters of the Dutton S. Peterson Library in Odessa, and those supporters turned out in sizable numbers Sunday afternoon for the experience.

The sweets came in the form of chocolate, the spirits in the form of wine-tasting, the sketches through artwork by regional artists, and the songs by a trio called South Wind.

The "Library Celebration" -- as in its inaugural presentation last year -- attracted music lovers, wine lovers, art lovers, cheese lovers and coffee lovers to the inn, an historic structure overlooking Cayuta Lake. And the same mix of supporters were drawn back for this year's event.

Artists like Jennifer Geck and Caleb Harrington displayed and sold their wares. Geck is a notable area photographer, and is working in tandem with photographer Richard Owlett (also present) to develop a display of historic photos showing scenes from the past, compared to scenes of the same locales in the present.

Harrington is a 15-year-old from Odessa who attends Horseheads High School. His drawings were also on display, and for sale, as he sat nearby working on new ones.

South Wind is a group featuring Kate LaMoreaux on the dulcimer, Dannie Brown on the autoharp and Caroline Hoover on the guitar.

In addition to Geck, Owlett and Harrington, artists featured included Mary Berry, Cynthia Cratsley-Harrington, Betsy Elswit, Dan Elswit, Mary Northrup, Bonnie Seeley, Elaine Stevens, Joe Stevenson, Jan Tanner, Marion Van Soest and John Whiting. Their work includes fabric art, jewelry, paintings, photography and woodworking.

A silent auction featured some of their work. Also available during the afternoon were door prizes and raffle items.

Wine tastings, meanwhile, were offered by Lakewood Vineyards and Seneca Shores Winery. Coffee was being poured for sampling by Coffee Pedlar and by Bob & June's Coffee. Cheeses were provided by Sunset View Creamery of Odessa.

And tours were available of Fontainebleau, a bed-and-breakfast owned by John and Marion Van Soest for the past 20 years.

Photos in text:

From top: Coffee Pedlar samplings, Jennifer Geck photography, and a raffle overseen by Peterson Librarian Gayle Greuber, left, were among the day's features.

Caleb Harrington shows some of his work (left), which included a self-portrait (right) that was on display and for sale.

Hundreds of people showed up at the Montour Moose Lodge for the United Way kickoff dinner.

United Way dinner draws a big crowd

MONTOUR FALLS, Oct. 13 -- The Schuyler County United Way campaign was officially launched Monday night with the organization's annual kickoff spaghetti dinner at the Montour Moose Lodge.

The dining area was full from the 5 p.m. start of the dinner, with a line reaching through the building's vestibule and out the front door. Hundreds attended, as they normally do, to help the United Way start its annual fund-raising effort that benefits 27 agencies.

Rotary-affiliated Interact Club members from the Odessa-Montour and Watkins Glen High Schools served as waiters, scurrying from kitchen and serving table to dining tables with the meals of spaghetti, meatballs, sausage, salad, bread and cookies.

"Make sure you mention the Interact kids," said campaign co-chairman Dr. Brian Bleiler, who was on hand with his wife, co-chair Loueda. "They make this thing work."

Other volunteers, of the adult variety, were also pitching in, including Sheriff Bill Yessman, who was working in the kitchen; Mary Crainey, who oversees the Odessa branch of the Tompkins Trust Company bank; Glenda Gephart, president of the Watkins-Montour Rotary Club, and Peggy Scott, executive director of the Schuyler County United Way.

The goal of this year's campaign is $125,000. Agencies that benefit include the American Red Cross, the Boy Scouts/Five Rivers Council, Challenge Industries, the Chaplaincy Program, the Community Dispute Resolution Center, CASA, the Dutton S. Peterson Memorial Library, the Elizabeth B. Pert Memorial Library, the Finger Lakes Addictions Counseling and Referrals Agency, the Girl Scouts, Glen Industries of The Arc of Schuyler, the Humane Society of Schuyler County, Literacy Volunteers, the Montour Falls Memorial Library, Mustard Seed Ministries, the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, the Schuyler County Child Care Council, the Schuyler County Family Play & Resource Center, Schuyler County Health Check, Schuyler Head Start, Schuyler Hospital, the Schuyler Housing Opportunity Council, Schuyler Nursery School, Schuyler Outreach, the Schuyler Teen Center, Seneca Santa and the Southern Tier Association for the Visually Impaired.

Photos in text:

Top: Schuyler County United Way campaign co-chairman Dr. Brian Bleiler and Executive Director Peggy Scott.

Bottom: Watkins Glen High School Interact Club member Caroline Likoudis at work in the Moose Lodge kitchen.

Left: O-M Interact Club member Katie Ray. Right: Tony and Liz Fraboni of Watkins Glen were among the diners.

Left: The line stretched from the dining hall and out the front door. Right: Alice Crispell of the Watkns Glen High School Interact Club was among the servers.

Left: Kyle Chedzoy, left, and Mike Stamp served in various capacities, including on cleanup. Right: O-M Interact Club member Malissa Richards was one of the workers.

Schuyler County Sheriff Bill Yessman was working in the kitchen.

Montour Fall's Main Street was off-limits to vehicle traffic and full of festival foot traffic.

Some more scenes from the festival

MONTOUR FALLS, Oct. 11 -- Here are some more photos snapped at the third annual Falls Harvest Festival in downtown Montour Falls on Saturday, Oct. 10.

The festival, which started at 1 p.m. and culminated in fireworks from atop Shequagah Falls at 8 p.m., began in misty conditions that turned sunny and warm before nightfall brought a biting chill.

Vendors, music, a pumpkin-carving contest, a petting zoo, a straw maze, an inflatable slide for kids, the Lake Country Players' annual Ghost Walk tour of the village's historic spots, grape stomping and pie eating contests, and chainsaw carving demonstrations were among the attractions at an event which has -- judging by the large turnout -- quickly gained popularity among county residents.

Photo in text: Mark Watson, who bills himself as a "Big Tree Hugger," demonstrates chainsaw carving.

Left: Kids had fun on an inflatable slide. Right: Mike Myers is hosed down after stomping grapes.

Watkins Glen Mayor Judy Phillips, right, competed in a grape-stomping contest. (Photo provided by Marcia Douglas)

Interact Club students from Watkins Glen High School helped raise funds for Head Start at a festival taco stand. Head Start is seeking new playground equipment. From left: Jenna Gimbar, Angela Keough, Elena Likoudis and Maggie Myers.

Left: Odessa Mayor Keith Pierce got a faceful of whipped cream after a pie-eating contest featuring local politicians. A helper at the Lions Club-sponsored pie-eating table decided that Pierce, who had cleaned off his face following the competition, looked better with the cream on and smeared his face with a pie plate full, which he good-naturedly accepted. Right: A denizen of the petting zoo.

Ghostly apparitions gather in front of a local church as part of the Ghost Walk -- an historic tour of Montour Falls featuring deceased historical figures.

Two more Ghost Walk figures: an Indian squaw and Catharine Montour (right).

Mary Ann Combs whips up some cotton candy at the Schuyler Teen Center stand.

On the lake

The Stroller IV makes its way back toward its berth near the Seneca Harbor Pier in this autumn photo snapped from the porch of the Elks Lodge overlooking Seneca Lake.

Museum finalists don't include Schuyler

Site will be in Seneca, Cayuga or Yates; Orange locale one of those rejected

Special to The Odessa File

GENEVA, Sept. 30 -- Six potential locations were unveiled Tuesday as the future home of the Finger Lakes Cultural & Natural History Museum by its Board of Trustees at a news conference in the ballroom of the Ramada Geneva Lakefront Hotel.

Five of those sites contain lakefront property. Three are publicly-owned park lands and three are private holdings. Three are in Seneca County, two are in Cayuga County, and one is in Yates County.

Eliminated from consideration among 19 proposals made by counties in the region was one involving a 100-acre site in Schuyler County's Town of Orange. That site, county-owned, is in a wildlife setting, 12 miles from Route 86. Accessibility from a major thoroughfare had been one of the criteria the selection committee was considering.

Other counties that submitted proposals included Steuben, Tioga and Tompkins. The finalists include the following:

Seneca County:

-- 100 acres in Sampson State Park with lakefront on Seneca Lake
-- 50 acres in Geneva and Seneca Lake State Park with lakefront
-- 60 privately-owned acres in Romulus with lakefront on Cayuga Lake

Cayuga County:

-- 80 acres at Wells College in Aurora with lakefront on Cayuga Lake
-- 237 privately-owned acres in Aurora with a view of Cayuga Lake

Yates County:

-- 60 acres in Keuka Lake State Park, near Branchport, with lakefront

In identifying the parcels, Site Selection Committee Chairman, Don Naetzker, a land planner and landscape architect, referred to presentation boards that showed the location of each on an aerial photo outlining proposed boundaries along with images taken at each site. He explained the weighted-vote system that was used to objectively determine the frontrunners.

Sponsors representing each site were present to promote their locations and describe surrounding amenities at a breakout session that followed the news conference.

Last April, the museum’s Board of Trustees invited each of the 14 Finger Lakes counties to submit one or more proposals in a competitive effort to attract the project. Nineteen sites were submitted by eight counties and the city of Geneva. The deadline for submissions was July 15th.

For the last two months, Site Selection Committee members have been touring and evaluating each of the 19 locations. The six finalists will be asked to submit another round of proposals that contain more specific details in an effort to reduce the field to a single frontrunner. The Board of Trustees will make the final decision.

“We were hoping to see sites with nice views of a Finger Lake," said Board president John Adamski. "We never expected any waterfront property. Now we have five lakefront parcels to choose from, which opens the door for more opportunities.” He said that the board hopes to make its final decision by December.

The notion of a Finger Lakes Cultural & Natural History Museum was first presented by Adamski in a Life in the Finger Lakes magazine article he wrote in the spring 2008 issue. The idea has caught on and now more than 60 volunteers are working to help make it happen. For more information, see www.fingerlakesmuseum.org.

Photo in text: Seneca White Deer would be among the native wildlife featured in outdoor exhibits at the Finger Lakes Cultural & Natural History Museum. (Photo provided)

Watkins library sets PreSchool Storytime

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Sept. 17 -- The Watkins Glen Public Library will hold a PreSchool Storytime every Wednesday from 10-11 a.m. The library is located at 610 S. Decatur Street.

The program is for children ages 3-5, and includes stories, songs, games, simple crafts and a snack.

Storytime is free and open to all. For more information, contact the library at 535-2346 or watkins@stls.org

Support group sets sessions at racing center

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Sept. 17 -- The "Trust in the Lives of Older Women" support group -- open to new members at any time -- meets on the first and third Wednesdays of the month from 10-11:30 a.m. in the Media Room at the International Motor Racing Research Center, 610 S. Decatur St., Watkins Glen.

The group, based on trust, friendship and confidentiality, provides an opportunity for women to share their wisdom and experiences as they create places to build safe relationships.

For more information, contact Kathy Burns, Trust Coordinator, at the Steuben County Office for the Aging (607) 776-7813 or kathleenb@co.steuben.ny.us

Program offers projects for Home Schoolers

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Sept. 17 -- A Home School Group meets at the Watkins Glen Public Library every Thursday morning at 9 a.m.

Children's librarian Carol LaFever directs the program, which includes stories, creative projects, and a snack. Parents must be in attendance.

The program is targeted for children ages 5-12 and is free. For more information, contact the library at 535-2346 or watkins@stls.org

Catholic Charities launches new website

Special to The Odessa File

ELMIRA, Sept. 1 -- Catholic Charities of Chemung and Schuyler Counties has started a new website at www.cs-cc.org.

The site features easy access to the organization's programs and services, as well as job openings, upcoming events and online giving.

“We are excited to initiate this new website that will allow community members better access to all the services of Catholic Charities,” said Lindsay Winters, Director of Development. “I encourage individuals to check out our current job openings."

Catholic Charities’ new website is hosted by EZ-Insites, a local website consulting, design and development company. For more information, visit www.ez-insites.com.

Catholic Charities provides a number of community programs and services, with a priority toward the poor and a focus on food, clothing, shelter, medical services, and the ability to achieve a decent standard of living. For more information, contact Winters at 734-9784 x145.

Protect against disease-carrying ticks

(The following was provided by the Schuyler County Health Department as a public service.)

WATKINS GLEN, May 14 -- This time of year, we start to spend more time outside, and ticks are a part of that outside environment. Ticks can carry a variety of diseases. The one that we see most often is Lyme disease.

This disease is carried by the tiny deer tick and if left untreated, can cause a number of health problems. The best practice is to protect yourself from tick bites.

-- Use an insect repellent that contains DEET (read label carefully)
-- Tuck pants into socks and shirts into pants
-- Stay away from tall grass, leaf litter and brush
-- A shower and shampoo may dislodge crawling ticks
-- The most effective method is a whole body exam and tick removal each night
-- Check your pets for ticks

If you have questions or concerns about Lyme disease or tick removal, call the Schuyler County Health Department at 535-8140.

Fire in the kitchen ... Put a lid on it

Note: The following is a public service announcement from the Schuyler County Office of Fire and Emergency Management.

Special to The Odessa File

The majority of accidental fires in the home start in the kitchen. Property damage could be drastically reduced if people only knew what to do when confronted with a kitchen fire. Schuyler County Emergency Management suggests the following steps when confronted with a fire in the kitchen.

If the fire is confined to a pan on top of the stove, slide the lid across the pan and leave it there. Do not attempt to move the pan outdoors because you may burn yourself or spread the fire.

-- Never throw water or flour on a burning pan. Water will spread the flames and flour will actually explode!

-- Do not turn on the exhaust fan over the stove. This would suck the fire inside the walls of your home. If the fire is in your oven, turn off the heat and leave the door closed to cut off the fire’s air supply.

-- Install a fire extinguisher in the kitchen. Make sure its easily accessible in the event of a grease or oven fire. When purchasing a fire extinguisher for kitchen use, make sure the extinguisher is rated for Class ABC fires to insure its acceptability for use on kitchen fires.

If the fire is too large to safely cover, or for your fire extinguisher, leave the house immediately and call the fire department from a neighbor's telephone. Trying to fight a fire yourself when its too large can cause far more extensive damage and can result in more serious, unnecessary injury.

As a preventive action, keep your cooking appliances – including stovetops, burners, oven and broilers -- clean. Built-up grease can flare up easily, causing dangerous and damaging fires. And keep combustible materials – paper towels, dish towels, paper bags, cookbooks, and food packaging – away from the stove or other heat source. Keep your kitchen fire-safe.

For more information, contact your local Fire Department or go to this website on the Internet: http://www.schuylercounty.us/911E.htm

The Indian of the Lake

WATKINS GLEN, March 30 -- This photo -- an old aerial view of Seneca Lake -- was shown to the editor while he was visiting the Legislature office in the Schuyler County Office Building.

It was in the possession of an official there.

The editor didn't see it at first -- but does now: the unmistakable shape of the lake, a lake named after an native American tribe. The shape looks like that of an Indian, kneeling perhaps, with head bowed, and a feather at the upper, northernmost point of the visible profile.

"Cool," said the editor when he finally recognized the outline. And interesting. So he snapped a picture of the picture for presentation here.

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