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The Forum:

Please note: All letters submitted to The Forum are subject to editing by the publisher at his discretion. Editing will be done in regards to length, clarity, grammar, libel and good taste. The existence of this page does not give any letter writer free rein to publish anything that does not meet submission standards. This policy is in keeping with sound and longstanding journalism practices.

Proposed Watkins apartment complex
would definitely have a negative impact

The following was sent to the Village of Watkins Glen Planning Board in late April. Its writer wishes to make it public.

To Whom it May Concern:

My name is Lisa Scaptura, daughter of George and Elizabeth Scaptura. My parents built our home on North Glen Avenue in the 1950s. It is the home I was raised in and where I currently reside. I am writing to you in regard to the Seneca Terrace Project (on the Magee Manor property).

After attending the Planning Board meeting held Wednesday, April 17, 2013, I feel the need to voice my concern in regard to this project. The architect/engineer who has designed this project has shown a plan for 28 apartment units on two levels, complete with access roads and parking for two cars per unit, plus guest parking. They have promised that these units are high end apartments specifically for "senior citizens."

It is my belief that the impact of this structure in our immediate neighborhood will be negative. Many of the reasons were highlighted during the board meeting. These included, but were not limited to: increased traffic, safety, lighting, increased costs, increased noise, and type of tenants. I agree that these are all extremely valid concerns.

To see the entire letter, click here.

***************

Thanks to those running for WG Board

To the Editor on May 19:

Many thanks to all the fine folks who are running for the Watkins Glen School Board! Community spirit and volunteerism are alive and well. We are mighty grateful to have so many candidates willing to donate hundreds of hours to the well-being of our children.

We are particularly drawn to Kristin Hazlitt as a potential board member. We have admired her extraordinary work as a representative of the most vulnerable children in our community. We find her knowledge of our community’s needs invaluable and are hopeful that she will be elected.

We are deeply appreciative of Kristin’s commitment to education and are confident that she will be a fierce protector of learning and teaching across the curriculum. We are thrilled by her desire to be inclusive of teachers, parents, and students in the decision-making process.

We have not been well-acquainted with our other candidates and have been so appreciative of their attendance at Meet the Candidates events and letters to the editor. What lovely people! We have found Barb Schimizzi’s voice to be so unfiltered and so authentic -- there is something about that kind of honesty that is mighty appealing.

All the best to Brian O’Donnell and Joe Fazzary and many thanks for their years of service.

Kirk J. Peters DVM
Marie Fitzsimmons

Vote for those who want district intact

To the Editor on May 19:

I have been keeping up with all being said about the upcoming O-M board elections and am unnerved by some of the comments.

Having actually been to board meetings, as well as the Meet the Candidates night, I feel I have unique perspective. I can tell you that board meetings are very sparsely attended. Until you actually come to one it is hard to pass judgment on what occurs there, unless you are getting inside information from a board member, and their personal perception about what occurs.

I, for one, have never noticed any "cliques." There are some that most likely share the same vision but every member of that board is given the opportunity to ask questions and to have those questions answered. And from what I have seen, every question is answered, addressed, fully with facts to back up those answers. I have never witnessed in all the meetings and workshops I have attended, anyone be disregarded, or ignored.

I do find it funny that there are some that do not want the status quo. What status quo are we talking about? The one where our board has worked together to come up with a budget that protects our children's interest, while coming up with a plan to keep the tax levy lower than many of our neighboring districts? There is no one person or group that kept that levy low or came up with the budget this year. I saw a very collaborative effort that went through many changes throughout the process before coming up with the final numbers.

One issue that did come up at the Candidates night was the one of consolidation. The candidates were asked whether consolidation was on their agenda. Despite the fact that at least one candidate has been very vocal about the desire to seek potential consolidation with a neighboring district, that candidate denied that was on the agenda. Those that did attend found in general that the candidates were well spoken and seemed informed. I was particularly impressed with Wendy Shutter, who fielded questions pertaining to "status quo" and the ability to do what is best for all concerned, students and taxpayers, even if it is not popular. I also have to say that Mr. Westervelt was very thorough in stating his position for the future.

Like other submitters to this forum, I do not have any relationships with the candidates, other than those that occurred through school activities. I have formed opinions based on all that I have learned from attending board meetings and doing independent research into the issues that interest and concern me. In the end we should remember that these positions are voluntary and unpaid. Every single one of these candidates are there because they want the best for our district; some just have different visions for what the best is.

Not one of the candidates, or board members for that matter, are conspiring with each other to cheat the taxpayers or the students. They all in their own way are doing what they believe will best benefit us all. I respect all the candidates for their willingness to put themselves out there. I just happen to support the vision of Wendy Shutter and Sharon Lewis. Please vote for the candidates that want to keep our district intact, while continuing to support our students with programming, both academic and athletic, that prepares them for the future. Thank you.

Christy Rumsey

Lewis, Shutter deserve your votes

To the Editor on May 19:

Two of the candidates running for the O-M School Board are clearly the best choice to represent the district. I believe they are Sharon Lewis and Wendy Shutter. Just because an "incumbent" is running doesn't mean that person is the best choice for our future. Remember, the board is made up of seven individuals; credit for an accomplishment should not be given to a single member.

After reviewing the minutes of the board meetings for the 2011-2012 and 2012-2013 years (which are published on the O-M Schools website to date), it shows Sharon Lewis attending 11 meetings, while Rob Tuttle has only attended 4. I don't see mention of "tough questions" posed by Rob. Living in a small community, means "everyone knows everyone" and paths do cross between friendship and political aspirations; however, that does not mean a person's thoughts and beliefs are not their own. Sharon and Wendy are independent thinkers, not afraid to voice their opinions and fight for what they believe in. Do they sound like followers?

As a previous officer of the Sports Boosters (I served for 7 years) I have had the privilege and honor of working with Sharon and Wendy on projects that took a lot of effort and money. In no instance did either of these ladies follow the majority. They were not afraid to disagree with that majority, suggest alternatives and come up with solutions to any issues the Boosters faced -- and trust me, there were many. Sharon and Wendy know how to make the tough decisions that they will have to face as board members.

Please vote for Sharon Lewis and Wendy Shutter on Tuesday to help the Odessa-Montour School District remain strong and continue the quality education our students deserve.

Vicki Kron

Westervelt, Tuttle are the right choices

To the Editor on May 17:

I am a current employee of the Odessa-Montour School district. I am also a taxpayer in the same district. None of the candidates running for the open positions this year are my friends. With that said, I must state that I believe that Scott Westervelt and Robert Tuttle will be the best choices for the two open spots on the School Board.

Scott Westervelt as an incumbent has been a true representative of the people who have elected him. He has always been accessible to the taxpayers and makes his decisions based on fact, not popularity or peer pressure. As many of you know, he was instrumental in reducing the tax increase from the 4+ % that was originally set down to the 2% that it is now. He does not fit into the current “clique” which has made him an outcast to the current board but makes him invaluable to our school programs and our tax bills.

Robert Tuttle has been bringing a lot of tough questions to the board as of late. He is an outspoken individual who I believe will not fall into the roll of a follower, but rather that of someone who will find the answers before making decisions. He has proven that he is capable of following through with the problems that the district faces by seeking answers that the board was unable to give to him on his own.

In this time of economic hardships it is more important than ever to disrupt the status quo and open the doors to as many ways possible to solve our problems and maintain the future of our district. The worst that we as taxpayers can do is to fall into the political ways of loyalties, friendships and party lines. Let’s leave that in Albany and do what's right for the future of our children, our school and our district.

Patrick Carlisle

Shutter, Lewis are the best choices

To the Editor on May 17:

As a former Board of Education member, current school employee, taxpayer and parent, I take the election of School Board members very seriously. This is a non-paid position which is usually a thankless job, but has enormous impact on the students and staff, as well as taxpayers.

This year there are two seats open, and I feel the best candidates are Sharon Lewis and Wendy Shutter. Both have supported the school in various ways over the years, most recently as dedicated officers of the Odessa-Montour Sports Boosters. Many, many hours have been volunteered in making the new concession stands become realities. Through years of fund-raising efforts and strategic planning they were also instrumental in acquiring the beautiful LED sign on the school grounds. These accomplishments (as well as numerous others) are a result of dedication, hard work, budgeting and negotiating… all important attributes of good Board members. Sharon and Wendy are not representing any one group – but the entire community of taxpayers, staff and students.

Both have kept abreast on school issues – Sharon has been a minority of the public that has actually attended almost every meeting in the last couple of years… not with a "set agenda," as some do; but because she is a concerned citizen.

People must realize that some tough decisions have to be made and there is protocol that needs to be followed. The role of the Board, as with any legislative body, is to act collectively, not individually. It is the Board’s job to set policy and entrust the daily operations to the people who have been hired to do just that. It is not the Board’s responsibility to micromanage or have direct contact in day-to-day labor relations. As far as opening the lines of communication, the lines have never been "closed." Procedures are in place and followed when issues are raised. Both Sharon and Wendy have experience dealing with Boards in their respective careers and understand the Board’s role in policy making, planning and appraisal. Having worked with both Sharon and Wendy over the past years, I can also attest to their ability to "speak their mind" and fight for what they believe in. Neither are "followers"…. They are leaders willing to commit the time and effort on behalf of all the stakeholders.

Please plan to vote on Tuesday, May 21st – the polls will be open from noon-8 p.m. at the Hanlon Elementary School – and cast your votes for dedicated, concerned citizens who want to uphold the fiscal integrity of Odessa-Montour while maintaining student successes, strong teaching and support staff. Clearly, those candidates are Sharon Lewis and Wendy Shutter.

Debra M. Dupuy
Odessa, NY

Shutter, Lewis will be loyal to taxpayers

To the Editor on May 15:

The A. Moralis article on The Odessa File makes several good points, but ends with the statement that board member loyalty should be to the taxpayer. Sharon Lewis and Wendy Shutter also believe we should be loyal to the school district's taxpayer. That loyalty, however, should not be measured strictly based on the tax levy of the school budget.

If your community is to thrive, your school district must provide the residents' families with a marketable and well-rounded education. This includes robust programs providing experiences in sports, arts, music, technology, and social awareness. When families have a choice where to live, a school district with a variety of programs and supports for their children is a determining factor.

Our current board has done a wonderful job maintaining programs while minimizing tax increases. We hope to join that team and keep providing our current and future residents with the best we can offer. Please help us do that by voting for us on May 21st.

Wendy Shutter and Sharon Lewis

Vote for Lewis and Shutter

To the Editor on May 15:

I would like to encourage voters to cast their votes for Sharon Lewis and Wendy Shutter in next week’s Odessa-Montour school board elections.

As an involved parent myself, I know the amount of hours it takes to accomplish successful events at the school. I have been involved in PFO, Sports Boosters events, and the After Prom Party and have seen first-hand the work and dedication that Sharon and Wendy have given to this school, the students and staff. So many things happen "behind the scenes" that people take for granted … these two are some of the driving force that makes these events happen.

The obvious succession to this type of dedication and involvement is to serve on the Board of Education. They are committed to the welfare of the district, staff and students. Their knowledge of the district and their professional backgrounds make them ideal candidates for the position.

Voting will take place on Tuesday, May 21 from noon to 8 p.m. in the Hanlon Elementary School. Please think about all that Sharon Lewis and Wendy Shutter have to offer and support two candidates who have the district’s best interests in mind.

Bridget Raymond
Odessa

Schimizzi: 'We are all in this together'

To the Editor on May 14:

My name is Barbara McGrath Schimizzi and I am running for the Watkins Glen Central School District Board of Education.

My parents, Robert (Sarge) and Sundine Nitche McGrath, moved their family back to Watkins Glen to raise us after my father retired from the U.S. Air Force. They wanted us to know what a great community Watkins Glen was and still is. I attended both the Middle and High Schools. I reside in the house my parents previously owned with my husband, Dominick (Buddy), and our two sons, Max, an eighth grader and Alex, a seventh grader.

I work in Geneva as a Clinical Coordinator of the CT department at Geneva General Hospital.

I am currently involved in the Boy Scouts Troop 2674 and Saint Mary's of the Lake Youth Group, and when my sons were younger, I was involved in the Watkins Glen PTO. I believe one thing that particularly qualifies me to serve on the BOE is I have regularly attended School Board meetings for the past three years to become informed as much as possible and to better know the personnel of the district. As a member of the audience, I was never afraid to express my opinions, being a firm believer that we are all in this together.

I want the children of the Watkins Glen Central School District to get the very best education possible. I believe we have an obligation to be fiscally responsible to the taxpayers while also being able to walk that fine line in avoiding staff and program cuts. It’s a tightrope that I am willing to balance if elected to the School Board.

Please consider me in the voting booth on May 21, 2013. The budget and open seats on the Board of Education vote will be held at the High School from 9am-8pm. Everyone who is 18 and a resident of the district is eligible.

Thank you.

Barbara McGrath Schimizzi

Franzese: 'I will be a positive voice'

To the Editor on May 13:

My name is Mark Franzese and I am running for the Board of Education in the Watkins Glen School District. I am running because I care about our kids! I have 3 children in the district and I want them to have quality educational and extra-curricular experiences that should be afforded every child.

The reality of the current challenge facing education as funding continues to be reduced at the federal and state level is that schools have two choices: Shift the cost for educating children to the local taxpayers or think about possibilities and find creative solutions. I believe the latter is the most responsible approach.

The school district has lost over 500 students since 1980, state funding for education in Watkins Glen is less than it was in 2009 and the district has lost over $2 million in federal funding. With the loss of student population and the loss of federal and state funding, it is only responsible to evaluate this information in an effort to preserve the future of the Watkins Glen Central School District.

I will be a positive voice on the School Board as we evaluate ideas, solutions and opportunities for problem solving. We must find ways to preserve programs while ensuring fiscal responsibility by controlling costs and minimizing the property tax impact to our local community.

Please remember to vote Tuesday, May 21st! Thank you and I appreciate your support. Please vote Mark Franzese Watkins Glen Board of Education.

Mark Franzese

I urge you all to vote for Tom Lewis

To the Editor on May 13:

I have known Tom Lewis and his family for several years and I can tell you that as a former Odessa-Montour School Board member, I know Tom has what it takes to be successful. Tom is a dedicated husband and father who cares about the students, taxpayers and teachers of the Watkins Glen Central School District. His wife Jenny, is a teacher in the O-M district, which helps him have a broader knowledge then most of the candidates regarding what teachers are facing on a daily basis.

Tom's background in the Healthcare Industry gives him a thorough understanding of the challenges that continue to face all school districts in that regard. However, the one thing that sets Tom apart the most, in my opinion, is that he is deliberate and thoughtful in all of his responses. Tom will not take one side or another quickly. He will weigh the opinions and facts of both sides of any argument and he will make his decision based on what he feels will be in the best interest of the WGCS district.

Tom cares most about the programs that are offered for the students of Watkins Glen. He will do what needs to be done to preserve those programs. He is not in favor of an OM/WG school merger, but does see the potential in the many ways the two districts can continue to work together. Tom is and will be a wonderful choice for the School Board in Watkins Glen. I urge you all to vote for Tom Lewis.

Matt Walters

Support for Devon was heartwarming

To the Editor on May 13:

Last Saturday night I had the privilege of being a small part of the Play for Devon basketball event held at the Field House in Watkins Glen. It was heartwarming to see the number of people -- students, faculty and community members -- who came out to support Devon and his family.

Linda Gregory put in endless hours organizing this event and rallying support from business and community members. A special thank-you to all of the businesses who donated items or services, as well as to those individuals who made items for the numerous raffles conducted throughout the event. We are forever grateful for your support of Devon and the efforts of the school to support him and his family. We even had Village Mayor Mark Swinnerton and District Attorney Joe Fazzary as “officials.”

As I sat in the Field House Saturday night and looked around, I once again took stock of how fortunate we are to live in a place where students, faculty and community come together as one to support “one of our own.” I have often said I love working and living here, and Saturday night was an example of why Schuyler County is a great place to live.

Tom Phillips
Superintendent of Schools
Watkins Glen

Tea Party meeting subject: '4th Branch'

To the Editor on May 10:

The Odessa Tea Party group would like to invite everyone to our next regular meeting on Wednesday, May 15 at 7:00 pm. We meet in the Community Room of the Odessa Municipal Building at 300 East Main Street in Odessa, NY.

This meeting, our guest speaker will be John Darash from Dutchess County who will speak about the Common Law Grand Jury, our nearly unknown "fourth branch of government." Mr. Darash will describe the origins, operations and powers of the Common Law Grand Jury and will tell of his project to institute Common Law Grand Juries in all counties in New York State. Mr Darash believes that this Common Law Grand Jury is the key to safeguarding the rights of citizens and preserving the U.S. Constitution. Please join us to learn about this new and very surprising information.

Mark Rondinaro, for the Odessa Tea Party Group

Will hydrofracking affect local streams?

To the Editor on May 10:

No one can say with certainty how or if hydrofracking will impact our streams, lakes and rivers. The Community Science Institute (CSI), based in Ithaca, is recruiting and training several groups of volunteers for its "Red Flag" Stream Monitoring program to find out.

The Community Science Institute is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to empower citizens to monitor and protect their community's natural resources, especially water. In addition to partnering with volunteer groups, CSI also operates a state certified water quality testing lab (NYSDOH-ELAP #11790). CSI currently partners with twelve volunteer groups in the Cayuga Lake watershed and Upper Susquehanna River Basin, covering over 1,700 square miles of drainage area.

Water monitoring by volunteer groups in partnership with the certified laboratory is a low-cost and effective strategy for tracking water quality. With support from the CSI lab, volunteers will perform regular "red flag" field tests on stream samples to assess whether or not contamination occurs from shale gas operations. If a "red flag" is found, the CSI lab will perform further testing. Training workshops for the program will be held in July & August 2013.

CSI will be holding the following Information Sessions for interested volunteers in the Chemung and Schuyler county areas:

-- Monday, May 13th, 6:30 PM at the Steele Memorial Library, located at 101 E. Church Street in Elmira.

-- Thursday, May 30th, 6:00 PM at the Montour Falls Public Library, located at 406 Main Street in Montour Falls.

Come and find out how CSI's stream monitoring program works and how to get involved!

If you would like to get involved but cannot come to the Info Sessions, please email Becky Bowen, CSI's Outreach Coordinator, at becky@communityscience.org or call 607-257-6606.

Becky Bowen

Thanks to Moose for hosting breakfast

To the Editor on May 9:

Schuyler Nursery School would like to give a very special thank you to the Montour Falls Moose Club for hosting our recent pancake breakfast fundraiser. All of the planning and hard work put in by all is really appreciated.

Thank you also to the community for attending the breakfast and supporting this great community program.

Schuyler Nursery School

Thanks to Haeffner for trial coverage

To the Editor on May 9:

The Schuyler County community owes a debt of gratitude to Charlie Haeffner for his professional coverage of the recently completed murder trial in Schuyler County Court. This was a very complicated trial prosecuted by our District Attorney. No journalist who attended the trial, other than Charlie, gave us a complete diary of every day's proceedings.

Charlie distilled every day's testimony to a summary, and detailed what every witness said. Without The Odessa File's record we would have known very little about the trial. I am sure that I speak for many citizens who are thankful to Charlie for devoting his professional time to being a "trial reporter." We are a better informed citizenry because of his efforts. Thank you, Charlie, for a job very well done.

The Reverend Michael Hartney
Episcopal Parishes of Schuyler County

Lewis understands what district needs

To the Editor on May 8:

I am writing to support Sharon Lewis in her bid for a seat on the Odessa-Montour School Board.

She has been a presence to the students and parents of the Odessa-Montour Schools for years through her participation with the Sports Boosters. She has gone above and beyond to show her support for our athletes, such as keeping the picture boards up to date and helping in the creation of our first-ever sports yearbook. These things give our students a sense of pride and show them we recognize their accomplishments. Many of these activities take up hours of her personal time, which she gives happily.

She has also attended board meetings regularly and has stayed up to date and involved in the important issues our district faces. She gives thoughtful consideration to the subject of the meetings and bases her opinions on the facts presented.

I believe she understands what this district needs and will keep the best interests of the students and the district in the forefront of the issues.

Christy Rumsey

Hearing on term-limits law is May 13

To the Editor on May 8:

I would like to remind everyone that on Monday, May 13, at 6:50 pm, the Schuyler County Legislature will be holding a public hearing on a proposed local law to institute term limits for Schuyler County Legislators. This local law, if passed, will set a limit of 12 years of continuous service for all legislators, such limit being calculated beginning with the legislators elected in the 2013 election.

This law, if approved by the legislature, will be placed before the voters as a referendum in the 2013 election and will only go into force with a positive vote of the electorate.

I am a strong supporter of this local law, as I believe that, over time, it will help to bring new ideas and voices to our legislature.It will also break through the "group think" that develops when a group of incumbents has been working together for years. It will especially lessen the influence of the County Administrator, since, for at least a certain period, he will have to explain to the new members why it is that Schuyler County does things the way that we do them.

I urge all Schuyler County residents to come to the public hearing and voice your views on this proposal. Alternatively, if you are unable to attend this hearing, please call or email your legislators to let them know where you stand on this issue. Their contact information is as follows:

Dennis Fagan, chair - District 1, Tyrone (R) - Chairman@co.schuyler.ny.us, (607) 292-3687
Doris L. Karius - District III, Hector (R) - Legislature@co.schuyler.ny.us, (607) 546-5544
Thomas M. Gifford - District II, Montour (R) - T5141@aol.com, (607) 535-9517
Glenn R. Larison. - District III, Catharine (R) - glarison@empacc.net, (607) 594-3385
Michael A. Yuhasz - District II, Dix (R) - Legislature@co.schuyler.ny.us, (607) 535-4967
Stewart F. Field, Jr. - District I, Reading (R) - sfield@co.schuyler.ny.us, (607) 535-2335
Barbara J. Halpin, - District III, Catharine (R) - halpinb@lightlink.com, (607) 594-3683
Philip C. Barnes - District II, Dix (R) pbarnes@co.schuyler.ny.us, (607) 481-0482

Finally, I suggest that if you support this proposal, please note which legislators vote to block this referendum from coming before the voters. There will be four legislative seats up for election in November, and this is an important issue to consider when deciding who to support in the primary and general elections.

Mark Rondinaro

A card of thanks

To the Editor on May 3:

Thanks for help on Fisherman's meal

To the Editor on May 3:

A BIG thank you goes out to Montour Moose Lodge #426 for hosting the Annual Fisherman’s Breakfast for Schuyler Outreach Food Pantry and also to the dedicated volunteers and supportive patrons.

The breakfast was a huge success! Because of their efforts, we will be able to purchase six tons of food for families all over Schuyler County. We would also like to extend a special thank you to Hazlitt’s Winery and the Watkins Glen Walmart.

Thank you again for all your help and support. Hope to see you next year!

Jessie Ketter

Hazlitt: I am running for School Board

To the Editor on April 29:

My name is Kristin Hazlitt and I am running for the Watkins Glen School Board. My husband, Fred Wickham, and I have two children currently in middle school who have attended school in Watkins Glen since kindergarten. For the last ten years, I have been employed by Schuyler County as the Assistant County Attorney serving as the Social Services attorney. I prosecute cases of child abuse and neglect and pursue child support. Both my personal and professional lives have been focused on the children of this County. In addition, my professional life has made me aware of the needs of children from backgrounds that may be very different from my own.

Serving on the Watkins School Board will be no easy job with the current budget crisis. Our current School Board has been confronted with the task of making tough decisions for the school district, and I have no doubt that there are more tough decisions on the horizon. I hope to be a part of making those decisions responsibly to be sure that the students in our district have a well-rounded education that ensures their future opportunities. I can tell you that I am a parent who believes strongly in preserving the arts in education. But at this cross roads, with so many programs at risk, I have no such limited agenda. I was very impressed with the students who spoke at our recent school district public forum. They noted that having opportunities during their educational experience that went beyond core classes was not just for their fun and pleasure, but made them the well-rounded people that colleges looked for when they applied. Whether students are college bound or not, they need that wealth of experiences to succeed in life.

While working in the social services arena professionally, I have witnessed budget cuts and lost programs and services. I know that the people working on the front lines of those services are the ones who know best where the “fat” is and what services are essential. Yet the people who know best are seldom the ones asked to participate in the decision-making process. I would hope to be part of a school board that keeps open communication with the teachers, administrators and students and considers that input when the hard decisions are made.

The public forum discussed the issue of whether consolidation of school districts should be considered. I think that all of these creative options must be discussed as well as others that look at infrastructure rather than programs. But I noted as well that another member of the audience asked if such consolidation would preserve the programs that we are otherwise afraid of losing. The answer given was that we simply do not know. Whatever happens next must be the result of creative thinking backed up by good, solid information. I would like to serve on the School Board to be a part of the process.

Kristin Hazlitt

Running for education: a rally cry

The following account of a run around Seneca Lake in support of education was submitted by Marie Fitzsimmons, a Watkins Glen High School teacher.

To the Editor on April 27:

The WGHS Staff has been working so hard to protect education. We have marched in Albany, written to the governor, rallied with TAE, written letters to the editor, worked with the student SOS committee, attended board meetings and spoken passionately for the needs of students.

In December, we made a commitment to run around Seneca Lake as part of the Seneca 7 Event to continue our rally for education. With our students in our hearts, we gathered at 5:30 Sunday, April 21 and began a journey that was truly exquisite. Some of us have been running our whole lives and some of us are new to the world of racing. It did not matter; we all laced up our running shoes, with matching WGHS Seneca shirts and education slogans on our back and began a journey that will stay with us for a long time!

For the complete letter, click here.

Class of '68 reunion set at alumni picnic

To the Editor on April 26:

The OMCS Class of 1968 will be having its class reunion at the Alumni picnic on May 25, 2013. Please contact Kathy Cleveland at 6086 State Route 224, Cayuta, NY 14824 for tickets and information. The cost is $10 per person or $25 for a family. Bring a dish to pass, along with water or soda. The picnic will be held at the Catherine Park in Odessa.

Tom Carson
Class of 1968

Trappler trial coverage is excellent

To the Editor on April 26:

I have to tell you how complete and informative your information regarding the Trappler trial is. I feel as though I am in the courtroom. There is no sugar coating. All information is matter of fact, clear and spot on. The photographs are also very good, but The Odessa File always has excellent photos. So "Excellent Job" to you and your staff.

Patti Woods Dryburgh
Pine City

Anti-smoking ads resonate with me

To the Editor on April 24:

I loved my mother. She and her three siblings had all been valedictorian of their high school class. Being the oldest of four and her parents dying early in life, she married and went to work. She was effervescent, an athlete and married a local baseball star, my dad. Unfortunately, my mom also smoked a lot.

The recent anti-smoking TV commercials resonate with me. Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death. My mom died in 1983 at age 67 from lung cancer. My son, who was four, never really got to know his grandmother.

Mom could never seem to quit smoking...until...they found the spot on her lung. She quit, but was gone in four months.

There are many ways we can destroy our health. In the case of tobacco use, the evidence speaks for itself.

James E. Hare
Elmira

A thank you to friends, family and team

Submitted on April 18:

On this day, the 6th birthday of Seneca Physical Therapy, I wanted to spread the incredible joy and gratitude that I feel.

You, in an instrumental way, have contributed to our success and helped attach helium balloons to a dream that I couldn't have made a reality on my own. Thank you for your confidence that exceeded my own, reminders of what is possible around the corner that I might not have been able to see and your unwavering support. You, my friends, family and team that I work with, are what has made this day possible.

With sincere appreciation,
Amanda Smith-Socaris

$2,250 annually for county lawn treatment?

To the Editor on April 17:

For several of the 10 years I lived at 1006 North Decatur Street, Watkins Glen, I contracted with EarthGuard of Corning, NY (father-son team) to treat my lawn quarterly with weed killer, fertilizer, etc. The first year Jim provided aeration at a nominal, additional fee, and often times even seeded bare spots at no charge.

Cost? $45 quarterly = $180 annually.

Yesterday I drove around the entire Schuyler County Court House block to compare its lawn to my former lawn, and estimate the green area to be two, no more than three times, larger than the combined front and back yards at 1006 Decatur Street (for those unaware, I had a large, spacious back yard, lush from EarthGuard's treatments).

I would guess that TruGreen (a national company) has made quite a profit at taxpayer expense, myself included.

I'm betting EarthGuard, phone #607-562-3797, might offer a far, far lower price for a healthy courthouse lawn.

Why is a national chain, and not a local business, being used by the County anyway??

Thank you, Barbara Halpin, for giving your fellow legislators a reality check.

Mary Fanara (formerly Simiele)

Retired FBI official to speak at meeting

To the Editor on April 10:

The Odessa Tea Party group would like to invite everyone to our next regular meeting on Wednesday, April 17 at 7:00 pm. We meet in the Community Room of the Odessa Municipal Building at 300 East Main Street in Odessa, NY.

At this meeting, our group will host retired FBI Assistant Director Van Harp. Mr Harp, a 33-year FBI veteran, was in charge of the Bureau's Washington, D.C. field office at the time of the 9/11 attacks. Following his retirement from the FBI, he was employed managing security in the private sector, most recently at Corning, Inc.

Mr Harp will discuss topics including Homeland Security, federal overreach, and organizational differences in managing governmental and private security operations. We are very fortunate to have someone with such a breadth of experience available to address our group, and invite everyone to join us to hear him.

Mark Rondinaro,
for the Odessa Tea Party Group

Where is democracy in Hector?

To the Editor on April 10:

My husband and I attend many meetings these days and most of our friends and neighbors attend many meetings these days regarding local, state and federal government matters. It is the most extraordinary example of civic responsibility and of a democracy at work.

Or is it?

At the Hector Town Board meeting last night, Tuesday, April 9, 2013, the experience justified why many citizens would give up on the democratic process and participation.

For the Town of Hector, the most pressing current affair is our environment and how we as a town map our future and our legacy regarding clean air and water. But over the past two years, we in Hector face a board that persistently ignores its constituents, and which makes a mockery of civic participation. How are its members not embarrassed to carry on this way?

Last night’s issue for the people attending was the vacancy on the board since the tragic loss of Cliff Yaw as a member. With overwhelming pressure and opinion to fill the seat, and with plenty of legal justification and precedent, the board refused to respond, continuing to leave the citizens of Hector without fair representation. It is theater of the absurd for local folks to watch. We have devoted hours and hours to these meetings over the past two years and never get a response on the agenda items presented.

The citizens of Hector overwhelmingly support a ban on fracking. Mr. (Supervisor Ben) Dickens made it clear last night that as long as he has control, it will never be discussed with the public. Citizens are being encouraged to attend the countywide meetings for the Schuyler County Comprehensive Plan. Why would we when the professional survey executed for Hector’s Comprehensive Plan has gone absolutely ignored, the Board acting like it doesn’t exist. Anyone can go on-line and look at the results of the survey and understand that it doesn't matter that citizens participated and made their wishes clear. As long as the current Hector Town Board does as it pleases, we do not have a democracy in Hector.

I am not the first to feel frustrated and impassioned about this situation, and many people have spoken eloquently at meetings and in public regarding our stalemate here in this vibrant community. But witnessing last night’s meeting was too much for me.

My fellow citizens and neighbors, let’s vote these people out and return to democracy. Before Mr. Dickens says “next agenda item” one more time.

Paula Fitzsimmons
Hector, NY

We're competing in Chumpcars race

To the Editor on April 6:

I wanted to fill you in on a little project four friends and I have been working on for the past couple of months. I (Connor Evans), along with Jason Hazlitt, Eric Upham, Matt Fitch and Rob Roessel, have been building a race car for the upcoming "Chumpkins Glen" event April 13th-14th at Watkins Glen International.

We decided back in January that we would put together a local team to run against over 80 teams from across the U.S. and Canada and try to win a very unusual type of race at a world-renowned facility.

The Chumpcar circuit is a race series that is focused on getting the average person on the track to compete head to head with other car enthusiasts from around the continent -- the catch being that a car's value can't exceed $500. After many hours and a lot of sweat, we have a car, five drivers and a 15-hour endurance race to look forward to.

If you want to see more check out our facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hector-Racing/289676527821307

Here is the link to the Chumpcars website: http://chumpcar.com/

I hope to see you at the track on April 13th-14th!

Connor Evans

Kellogg: A cause bigger than just me

The following letter was circulated to friends and family by Jeff Kellogg, a Watkins Glen High School graduate.

The late Christopher Reeve, immortalized as "Superman" on the big screen, and as a visionary and hero in his personal life, wisely stated, "At first something seems impossible; then it becomes improbable; but with enough conviction and support it becomes inevitable."

Currently in the United States there are 1.275 million people living with spinal cord injury, more than 5 times the number of Americans previously estimated in 2007 (255,702). Great strides have been made; people are living healthier, vibrant lives, and many are walking again thanks to the work of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation. The Reeve Foundation is committed to finding treatments and cures for spinal cord injuries. To achieve this goal, the Foundation funds some of the most brilliant minds in neuroscience – researchers who are poised to deliver the answers that will change the lives of spinal cord-injured people worldwide.

As I train, I will not lose sight of why I am really putting myself to this challenge. It is always for a cause bigger than just me. Running a marathon is certainly nothing compared to the "marathon" that those living with spinal cord injury face every day. That is why I have decided to run with Team Reeve® in the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on October 13, 2013.

For those of you less familiar with my personal experience, here is a quick rundown:

On September 29, 2007 I broke my neck and suffered an incomplete spinal cord injury. After being airlifted to the hospital and hours of surgery, the immediate result was loss of all motor function (paralysis) of everything other than my left arm. I progressively began to regain use of my left leg. The shorter term result was continued loss of motor function on the right side of my body, specifically the right leg and right hand, with sensory loss on the left side, also known as Brown-Sequard Syndrome. I was a patient at Kessler Medical Rehab in New Jersey, where I was discharged using a walker.

What followed was years of physical and occupational therapy. After a lot of hard work and determination, fueled by the support of my amazing family and friends, I have completed two half-marathons and I strongly feel it is now time to capitalize on the second chance I have been provided and raise awareness for this amazing foundation. It will be the hardest physical challenge post-accident and I am full of excitement to demonstrate the power of positive thought, modern medicine, and hard work.

All of the Kessler patients I met inspired me to work harder, and will continue to be my inspiration, as well as the hundreds of thousands of individuals living with spinal cord injury every day.

But there is no way I can do this alone! Please help me support the vital work of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation.

My goal is to raise at least $2,600 ($100/mile) and, of course, cross the finish line. This money will enable continued research, education, and services for patients and their families.

All donations are 100% tax deductible.

Thank you for all the support and I will leave you with my favorite quote from Christopher Reeve:

“A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.”

Jeff Kellogg

P.S.: Donations made simple ... Below is the link to my website to make a donation online (via credit card).

http://www.christopherreeve.org/chicago2013/jeffkellogg

You can also make a check out to the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation (be sure to include my name and Bank of America Chicago Marathon in the memo field) and mail to:

Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation
636 Morris Turnpike, Suite 3A
Short Hills, NJ 07078
Attn: Team Reeve

We are lucky to have Gifford

To the Editor on March 23:

I am glad to see that Tom Gifford has decided to run for the county legislature after all.

In addition to his time on the legislature, I remember him when I used to work at Schuyler Hospital and Tom was on the hospital board. In addition to being honest and capable, he was always willing to listen to anything that anyone had to say.

For many years Tom has unselfishly volunteered his time to the county, and we are lucky to have him. He deserves to be elected again.

Tom Augustine
Watkins Glen

Music in Our Schools concert is March 20

To the Editor on March 13:

All across the nation, March is Music In Our Schools month, and we are celebrating at Odessa-Montour with a grand concert on Wednesday, March 20 featuring all of the musicians in our school from grades 3-12. We would like to invite the public to come share the music with us at 7 p.m. in the Fetter-Brown Auditorium. We may be a very small school district, but we have over 250 students involved in chorus and/ or band!

There will be performances by the Elementary Choruses directed by Mrs. Kim Laursen, the Elementary and Junior High School Band directed by Mrs. Michelle Voorheis, and the Junior and Senior High School chorus and Senior High Band directed by Mrs. Clarice Miles. Our amazing and faithful accompanist, Mrs. Sally Michel, has played for students at O-M for over 40 years! We hope to see you at this wonderful event!

Mrs. Kim Laursen
O-M, music teacher

Easter Sunrise singers sought

To the Editor on March 12:

Calling all singers! If you would like to sing in the Community Easter Sunrise service on March 31 at 6:30 a.m. at the south entrance to the Watkins Glen State Park, please join us this Sunday, March 17 at 3 p.m. for our first rehearsal. It will be at the Montour Falls United Methodist Church on Owego Street in Montour Falls.

Two other rehearsals are planned -- on Saturday, March 23 at the church, and on Saturday, March 30 at the State Park. Music and rehearsal CD's will be provided.

All are welcome! For more information or to RSVP, call Kim Caldwell Laursen at 607-594-6565.

Kim Laursen

Last chance to voice concern to legislators

To the Editor on March 10:

I would like to remind everyone that on Monday, March 11, at 6:45 p.m., the Schuyler County Legislature will be holding a public hearing on a proposed local law to replace the elected office of County Treasurer with an appointed Director of Finance. As many of you know, I am very opposed to this action. My reasons for opposing this change can be found on this very forum, in a letter dated on September 8th of last year, so I will not repeat them again here.

I believe that our legislature is unified in support of this change, and that whatever is said at the public hearing will not change that fact. I therefore anticipate that this issue will go to the ballot for the voters of Schuyler County to decide. That is as it should be, and I plan to bring this issue back to public attention as the election season approaches. For now, however, we have one final opportunity to publicly express our views on this issue, and I invite all Schuyler County residents to appear at the public hearing and to provide the legislators with their input.

Mark Rondinaro

Camp scholarship applications available

To the Editor on March 10:

The Watkins Glen High School Sports Booster Club is now accepting applications for scholarships for summer sports camps. Any Watkins Glen student currently in grades 8 through 11 is eligible to apply for assistance with sports camp fees. Application forms are available at the Middle School and High School Main Offices. Forms must be returned to the Booster Club by April 19, 2013. Amounts awarded to applicants will be determined by the number of requests. For more information, e-mail wgboosterclub@yahoo.com or call Lisa Palumbo at 546-4230.

Lorry Johnson
WG Booster Club Secretary

Yessman to address gun law twice

To the Editor on March 10:

On Tuesday, March 19 from 6:00-8:00 p.m., Schuyler County Sheriff William Yessman will be hosting an informational meeting on the NY Secure Ammunition and Firearms Act (NY SAFE Act) in the auditorium of the Odessa-Montour High School. This meeting will present information about the Act and its provisions but will not be an opportunity to discuss the merits (or lack thereof) of the Act itself.

The following evening, on Wednesday, March 20 from 7:00-8:30 p.m., Sheriff Yessman will appear at the March meeting of the Odessa Tea Party group to explain his reasons for opposing the NY SAFE Act. After Sheriff Yessman's presentation, we will have an open discussion period to allow all area residents to express their views about this law and the extraordinary way that it was passed.

This meeting will take place in the Community Room of the Odessa Municipal Building at 300 East Main Street in Odessa, NY. We hope for a lively discussion and welcome all perspectives on the value of this law. I personally consider this law to be both ineffective in reducing violent crime and a grave infringement on our rights guaranteed by the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. I am, however, very interested in hearing well-considered alternate views. To facilitate a productive discussion, we ask that everyone attending please come prepared to express their views in a respectful manner.

We invite everyone to attend this meeting to become more informed on the NY SAFE Act, and to express support to Sheriff Yessman for his leadership on this important issue.

Mark Rondinaro
Tea Party

Thanks to those who helped on fundraiser

To the Editor on March 10:

Watkins Glen Senecas Lacrosse thanks our volunteers who made our Spaghetti Fundraiser a success: Chip Dunham, Tammy Clarkson, Amy & Lexi Deraiche, Jannica & Mark Moskal, Gretchen Van Valen, Danielle Cummings, Brenen Murphy and future players Aidan DeBolt, Garrett Bellinger, Jackson Dunham, Dalton Cummings and Lucas Wickham.

Special thanks to the following businesses for their support: Valero/Stewart P. Wilson, Jerlando's Ristorante, WGI, Washington College Lacrosse, Glen Mountain Market, Hobart Lacrosse, Peters Supply, Nelson Development Group, Hector FUDGE, Harbor Hotel, Odessa File, Maria's Tavern, Savard's, WG McDonald's, Elks Lodge #1546, WG Walmart, WG TOPS, Sam's Club, and Dunkin' Donuts.

If you missed the fundraiser you can still contribute by sending funds to Watkins Glen Central Schools, Attn: Gayle Sedlak, 303 12th Street, Watkins Glen NY 14891 and asking for your donation to go to the lacrosse expenses fund. Watch for details on our Chili Cookoff in April. Thank you!

Watkins Glen Senecas Lacrosse

Budget cut threatens Arc services

To the Editor on March 5:

New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo recently proposed a $240 million across-the-board budget cut to voluntary programs providing supports and services to people with developmental disabilities effective April 1, 2013. For The Arc of Schuyler, this 6% cut means an annual income reduction of up to $600,000.

With agencies on the brink, critical staff stretched to the breaking point, an ocean of new regulations, and nearly $300 million in cuts over a 3-year period, the implications of this reduction are severe. Health and safety risks will be increased. Program quality will be reduced. The ability of people we support to be included members of our community will be undermined.

The Arc has joined with its statewide association, NYSARC, Inc. and other associations across New York State to fight this budget cut. Family members, self-advocates, and volunteers are in an ideal position to influence and inform our local legislators about the need for out-of-home residential placement, day services for their adult child, and other quality services for people with
developmental disabilities and how these supports will be difficult to provide with these cuts.

Governor Cuomo is asking the State legislature to pass his budget by April 1, 2013. Local representatives, Tom O'Mara and Phil Palmesano will play important roles in whether or not these cuts are enacted.

People can help advocate for services for people with developmental disabilities. Contact Senator Tom O'Mara and Assemblyman Phil Palmesano at their District or Albany office to request an appointment within the next few weeks where you can share concerns about what these cuts will mean.

When you call:

--Introduce yourself and tell the Senator or Assemblyman that you are a concerned constituent and describe your interest in people with developmental disabilities.

Tell them what these cuts will mean:

--This severe budget cut will have devastating effects for thousands of vulnerable New Yorkers and their families.
--Critical services for people with developmental disabilities cannot be sustained with such a significant loss of funding.
--Direct support professionals and employees across the state could lose their jobs through layoffs, creating critical staff shortages.
--Voluntary agencies will have diminished ability to comply with key health and safety regulations, and health and safety risks will increase for people with developmental disabilities who should be protected.

Tell them:

--There has been an enormous increase in costly regulatory mandates that have exceeded the capabilities of current funding and staff.
--These cuts are in direct conflict with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
--These cuts will threaten the quality of life for more than 120,000 people with developmental disabilities statewide.

The Arc of Schuyler

Thanks to all who attended Pasta Night

To the Editor on March 1:

On behalf of Spirit of Schuyler, I would like to thank everyone who attended the Glenora Pasta Night Thursday and, especially, Tom Phillips for being our "Guest Chef"!

Tony Vickio

CASA fundraiser was a huge success

To the Editor on March 1:

CASA of the Southern Tier, Inc. held our first ever Zumbathon on February 23, 2013. This fundraiser was a huge success; over 150 Zumba enthusiasts came out to dance and we were able to raise $4,550 to help serve abused and neglected children in Chemung, Schuyler and Steuben Counties.

This event could not have been successful without the support and dedication given by the community. We would like to thank our 10 outstanding Zumba instructors who volunteered their time and energizing dancing talents; our participants, vendors and sponsors: Simmons Rockwell, Bellacapelli Salon, Minier’s, Weiss Markets and Corning American Legion; and WETM 18 New and Backyard Broadcasting for promoting our event on the air. We would also like to thank the volunteers for everything they helped us do to make this a great experience.

CASA of the Southern Tier is a not-for-profit volunteer program which advocates for abused and neglected children in Chemung, Schuyler and Steuben counties. CASA has served in the Southern Tier for over 20 years to give children a voice where they would otherwise have none.

If you would like to become involved with CASA’s mission, please contact CASA of the Southern Tier at (607) 936-2272.

Amy Plumley
CASA of the Southern Tier, Inc.

Left: The Imprintable Images team. Right: The Simply Your Best team.

Left: Mastermind Entertainment's team. Right: The Schuyler Hospital team.
(Photos provided)

Thanks to sponsors, coaches, helpers

To the Editor on Feb. 25:

The Odessa-Montour youth basketball program completed its 2013 season on Saturday, February 23. The program was held on Saturday mornings for students in grades 3 and 4, and had a record number of participants this year.

Special thanks to our team sponsors this year: Imprintable Images, Mastermind Entertainment, Simply Your Best salon, and Schuyler Hospital. Also thanks to our volunteer coaches: Addi Rhodes, Callie Stillman, Brittany VanAmburg, Ashton Stadelmaier, Joey Collins and Tyler Clark as well as volunteer helpers Gabby Fazzary and Bryce Elliot. Also special thanks to Brad and Theresa Clark for their help in organizing the program.

We look forward to offering this program again next winter.

Greg Gavich

Focus of roundtable: teen dating violence

To the Editor on Feb. 23:

At the United States Attorney’s Office, prosecutors regularly handle the most horrific cases of violence. One type of violence which is often hidden and unreported is teen dating violence. Unfortunately, the physical and emotional damage from such an event can be long standing.

In a nationwide survey, 9.4 percent of high school students report being hit, slapped, or physically hurt on purpose by their boyfriend or girlfriend in the 12 months prior to the survey (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2011 Youth Risk Behavior Survey).

About 1 in 5 women and nearly 1 in 7 men who ever experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner, first experienced some form of partner violence between 11 and 17 years of age (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2010 National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey).

Reasons for such violence vary, but they include that fact that teens may lack the experience to navigate romantic relationships, or are unable to voice their feelings or communicate when emotional situations take a turn for the worse. When adolescents find the courage to tell their friends about being in an abusive relationship, statistics show that more times than not, their friends won’t know what to do to get them help.

To help address this situation, February has been designated as National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month. To further add to the resources parents and teens can utilize, I’m happy to report that our Office will host a roundtable discussion of teen dating violence on February 28, 2013.

This event will draw approximately one dozen young people from across the region to discuss real-life situations of teen dating violence. The roundtable panel will include a member of a Buffalo-area assistance organization, as well as a young person who herself was victimized. Canisius College has graciously agreed to serve as the host location for this event.

My hope is that the participants will be able to shine the light of day on this troubling phenomenon. Because the entire event will be available via webcast to schools, the roundtable discussion can be more broadly used as an educational tool, as well as a starting point for further discussion.

Let me also recommend that parents continue to stay involved in the lives of their children, and work to keep the lines of communication with them open. If you are a parent of a teenager, do you know the names and faces of three of their friends? Chances are, one of them—maybe your own son or daughter—will be in an abusive relationship.

Model healthy, non-violent relationships in your own homes. Learn how to identify the signs of abuse. Educate yourself, and assist young people in locating services if they or someone they know is experiencing a physically or emotionally abusive relationship.

Working to end violence in the community remains one of the highest priorities of the United States Attorney’s Office. By addressing the issue of teen dating violence with your children, and by encouraging your local school to view next week’s free web event, you too will not only help address this serious issue, you will join me in protecting all of our area’s children at the same time.

Barbara Burns
Public Affairs Officer
United States Attorney's Office
Western District of New York
Buffalo, NY

I will support resolution opposing
the NY SAFE Act for several reasons

To the Editor on Feb. 20:

It is apparent from recent communications to the legislature that there is concern that the Schuyler County Legislature take a position in opposition to the NY SAFE Act; that being the legislation passed by the NYS legislature implementing certain forms of gun control in New York State.

The Public Safety Committee which meets February 25th at 9:15 a.m. will discuss a proposed resolution in opposition to this legislation. The entire legislature will review the resolution at their Legislative Resolution Review Committee meeting March 6th at 9:15 a.m. and the resolution will be voted on at the regular Legislature meeting March 11th at 6:30 p.m. All of those meetings are held in the legislative chambers at the County Courthouse Complex. Please feel free to attend any or all of those meetings.

I personally will support the resolution opposing the NY SAFE Act for a number of reasons:

--The Constitution is explicit in guaranteeing my right to keep and bear arms;
--The NY Safe Act was rammed through without the usual time for public input;
--The law will have no effect on criminal behavior but will only restrict law-abiding citizens.

Barbara Halpin
Legislator

Seasoned Seniors set anniversary lunch

To the Editor on Feb. 14:

The Seasoned Seniors of Schuyler County, a group of active and involved seniors, will be meeting for a Dish-to-Pass Luncheon this Friday, February 15th, in the Fellowship Hall of Odessa Baptist Church. In actuality, the group of individuals, ages 50 and older, will be celebrating the 17-year anniversary of these gatherings.

From its inception, the very closely-knit group has been a rather motley crew of unique personalities. Known originally as the “Odessa Luncheon/Discussion/Fine Arts Round Table Society” (Check out that acronym!), they met for the first time in February of 1996, with entertainment provided by some very talented High School Chorus students from OMCS.

The formation of the Seasoned Seniors was the brainchild of the Pastor of the Odessa Baptist Church at that time, Randy Stone, and Bonnie Seeley, a member of his congregation. In 1996, the Sydney Place Apartments, situated behind the Odessa Fire Department/Municipal Building, was a newly-opened Senior Citizens complex, and Stone & Seeley hoped to “pull” the residents into this group to make them feel a sense of belonging to the Odessa community.

The first gathering took place on the Friday closest to Valentine’s Day, in what has been the group’s primary location -- the Odessa Baptist Church Fellowship Hall. Since no residents of Sydney Place attended that initial luncheon, permission was secured from the appropriate individuals, and the second luncheon was held in the central community room at the complex itself.

Over the years, there has been a wide variety of activities that the Seasoned Seniors have participated in: Brown Bag or Dish-to-Pass luncheons … community outreach to shut-ins … making small gifts for/visiting/singing at Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility and The Falls Home … informative “lectures” on Identity Theft, Disaster Preparedness, and self-defense … videos such as “Fly Away Home” and “Pay It Forward” … entertainment by such folks as Martha Kress, the “Dancing Grannies,” “The Elmirans” and caricaturist Jon Haeffner.

In all the years that this beloved group has been meeting we have enjoyed celebrating … laughing, living and loving together. We have sadly seen quite a number of our original members pass on to their Heavenly Rewards, while gladly welcoming dozens of new members over the years. Our gatherings have been as small as just 2 or 3 in “lean’ times, to upwards of 45 attendees for some of our more memorable programs.

As in the very beginning, 17 years ago, the Seasoned Seniors has no constitution, no “set-in-stone” rules, no membership dues or requirements, but always lots of fellowship, food and fun. We really don’t even hold fast to the “50 & over rule” and have been known to welcome visiting children and grandchildren on occasion. (Rumor has it that neither of the founders of the group was anywhere near the age of 50 seventeen years ago!)

If you are in the vicinity of Odessa Baptist Church at lunchtime this Friday, February 15 , we’d love to have you join us. Remember: 12 Noon, Dish-to-Pass luncheon … Beverage, dessert, and table service provided. Come alone or bring a friend. If you’d like to come, but have no transportation, call Bonnie Seeley (594-2588 or 426-6025) and she will arrange a ride for you. It is rumored that the surprise entertainment is going to be fantastic!

Bonnie Seeley

Thanks to all who helped Seneca Santa

To the Editor on Feb. 11:

Thanks to the support and efforts of many volunteers, Seneca Santa 2012 helped provide a Christmas for 417 children from 200 Schuyler County families.

Recognition needs to go to the Watkins Glen Presbyterian Church for the use of their facilities, to the staff and employees of Hazlitt winery for their fund-raising efforts, to Frank Dudgeon for cleanup, to the Hi-Lites and Schuyler County Sheriff's Department for allowing gifts to be dropped off at their offices, to Drs. Schultz and Fitzgerald for donating the oral hygiene supplies, to Marty Roberts, Dr. Bob Berry and Parmenter Motors and their coworkers/patients for the toys and games that they collected, to Karey Solomon for coordinating hundreds of handmade hats and mittens, to the local Girl Scouts for their wrapping skills, to the JV and varsity basketball teams and those high school students who helped unload the truck, bag the toothbrushes and toothpaste, and man the "assembly line" at the church, and to Bill Kennedy and Jennifer Geck and the firemen and firewomen who made sure the gift sacks were delivered on time.

It is so difficult to thank by name all those who donate their time and monies. There are several people who order the necessary supplies and set up their stations, and those who show up to bag the gifts and have been doing it for years. None of them want or expect thanks, but the program would not run as smoothly without them. Each person, no matter how small they consider their donation, contributes greatly to the overall success of the program. The longevity of Seneca Santa's existence is due solely to the support of this very generous community. Many thousands of children have wonderful memories of Christmas because of their giving spirit.

May God bless you all.

Peggy Scott
President

Howell: I'm running for Legislature

To the Editor and the residents of Montour Falls, the Town of Montour and Southwest Burdett on Feb. 8:

I am very excited about running for the newly formed seat created by the redistricting plan approved by the Schuyler County Legislature in 2012. I will need your support to gain a seat on the Schuyler County Legislature during this difficult period of revenue reductions coupled with unfunded mandates requiring tough decisions to be made leading to possible program and employee reductions.

As most of you know I have been a “fixture” in Schuyler County for nearly 40 years, working in the County Watershed Protection Agency. With my inside track knowledge of Schuyler County projects (having served on many boards and committees), I feel highly qualified to be an exceptional representative for you, my neighbors and friends.

As an attentive listener, I will take your concerns very seriously and present them to the Legislature on your behalf. I can’t promise the outcome you desire, but I assure you I will do my best to present your thoughts and ideas in a wise and timely manner and fight for what is the best outcome for your district.

My accessibility to you will be one of my utmost concerns. I will be available to you by phone, text, email, snail mail, or face to face.

As resident of a newly formed district, you now have the opportunity to have one (1) new representative to be your spokesperson to the full legislative body. Together we now have the opportunity to make our voices heard and make a difference in our communities.

I will be personally paying a visit to you within the next few months to obtain your signature of support on my petition to put my name on the ballot. This letter serves notice to you that I am running for this position. Others may seek this post, but I assure you no one has my level of energy to reach out to you “one on one” to represent you.

For more information on the redistricting, visit www.schuylercounty.us; click on legislature and then district map.

Please support me in being “your” voice on the Schuyler County Legislature. Thank you in advance for your support.

James D. Howell

WGHS students provide Sharing Sharee's Smile foundation with its 1st donation

To the Editor on Jan. 29:

I wanted to share a story with you in hopes to have recognition given to the Watkins Glen High School students who donated stuffed animals. This donation was the very first donation collected for a newly developed foundation, "Sharing Sharee's Smile." This foundation has been developed in memory of Sharee Saltzer-Auger.

Sharee, at the age of 35, was diagnosed with appendiceal cancer in June 2011. She underwent four surgeries and numerous chemotherapy treatments over the course of the next seven months. Throughout these hospitalizations, Sharee never gave up her fight for her cure. Her level of faith, hope, love and courage was immeasurable. Sharee insisted on sharing her blessings with others.

Numerous flowers were delivered to Sharee's hospital room from her many loved ones. Sharee took these flowers and delivered them to other cancer patients throughout the hospital, because she felt the need to spread love and hope to others. Even in her darkest moments, she was compelled to give away her blessings to others who may not have as many.

Throughout this seven months of tribulation, one thing remained, Sharee's smile.

Sharee's courageous battle with cancer ended on January 19, 2012, but her love remains.

Sharing Sharee's Smile has been developed by family to spread Sharee's blessings of love, faith, courage and hope by giving a gift to others who are facing the battle of cancer.

The Watkins Glen High School students collected and -- on December 26 -- donated 43 stuffed animals to the Sharing Sharee's Smile Foundaton. They were distributed to Golisano Children's Hospital/Strong Memorial for children battling cancer. Golisano Children's Hospital/Strong Memorial was the birthplace of Sharee's two children, and December 26, being Sharee's birthday, was a very special day -- the day on which "Sharing Sharee's Smile" began.

Carin Kennard (Sharee's sister),
parent of WGHS students Chelsea and Taylor Kennard

Photos in text: A picture of Sharee, and another of family members making the donation at Golisano Children's Hospital.

Harrington: It was a productive meeting

To the Editor on Jan. 25:

Odessa-Montour School District Superindentent Jim Frame and I met with Watkins Glen School District Superintendent Tom Phillips and Board President Brian O’Donnell on January 16.

-- We had a positive and productive meeting. Spoke about the need to look to the future and gather as much information as possible as we plan for education in Schuyler County. We did not talk about merger or consolidation, but rather about the future of education in the County.

-- We spoke of a process to meet informally in a public setting (a neutral setting like the Human Services Complex building in Montour Falls) with a trained facilitator (also neutral) to gather community input, concerns, suggestions and ideas. We need to find out what our residents, students, staff and/or stakeholders want as we plan to face our challenges and make data-driven decisions that impact education.

-- We spoke about having a public meeting that would permit us to present factual information in relation to topics the public really needs to be educated about (contract issues, legal issues, mandated programs, etc.). Residents and community members who cannot make the meeting will have the opportunity to submit their questions/concerns/comments to each school's website in advance to be considered as part of the process.

-- Our public relations personnel from GST BOCES will put together and distribute official press releases following the first and any other meetings so that the entire public will be informed of the information as it happens. This will dispel any misinformation or rumors that may occur. All media sources will be treated equally.

-- It will be important for all Board Members and both Superintendents to make a commitment to attend the meeting(s). Both parties will be actively listening and seeking suggestions from all stakeholders. Are there concerns or comments from the community?

-- After hearing from the entire community and looking at data, what is the next step? Do we develop a plan of action? Where do we go from here?

-- In closing, I will agree with Brian O’Donnell that we are in no way seeking to limit space nor attendance as some people might believe. In addition, there is absolutely no attempt to be vague about anything. Both boards and Superintendents will be setting all parameters.

Respectfully,
Debra Harrington
OMCS Board President

Thank you, St. Mary's parishioners

To the Editor on Jan. 18:

As we wind down from the holiday season, the staff of Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility would like to send our most sincere thanks out to the parishioners of St. Mary’s of the Lake Church. Each year, St. Mary’s donates, wraps and delivers gifts for each of our 120 residents – who couldn’t be more touched and pleased!

We cannot thank you enough, St. Mary’s!

The Staff of Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility

Halpin: I'm seeking another term

To the Editor on Jan. 14:

Many thanks to all of you who emailed, wrote, called and stopped me on the street to offer your support for my positions during the last three years which included no increase in real property taxes and smaller government. I sincerely appreciate your support!

I believe there continues to be a need for a voice that supports positions in opposition to the majority of the county legislature and therefore I have decided to run for a second 4-year term.

I will be running for a seat representing the new Legislative District I, Towns of Catharine, Cayuta and the Village of Odessa in the Town of Catharine. I encourage all voters in District I to monitor my legislative performance this year as well as the last 3 years. I welcome comments and questions from all Schuyler residents and can be reached at 594-3683 or by email at halpinb@lightlink.com.

I hope, by running again, I can encourage like-minded folks from Legislative Districts II, III, and IV to run this year as well. If you are considering a run, please let me know if there is anything I can do to help. If you are interested in the configuration of the new legislative districts, go to www.schuylercounty.us; click on legislature and then district map.

Happy New Year!

Barbara Halpin
Schuyler County Legislator

Firefighters provide the utmost service

To the Editor on Jan. 6:

Schuyler County’s ninth annual Holiday Fire Prevention Program “Keep the Wreath Blue” has concluded for 2012.

From Nov. 23 to Dec. 31 the firefighters of Schuyler County reminded county citizens to be safe by replacing a blue bulb on emergency service wreaths with a red bulb for each structure fire that occurred within the county during the holiday season. This year we replaced five (5) blue bulbs. During the same period in 2011 we only posted two (2) red bulbs. Our goal is to keep the wreath blue for the entire season and promote fire prevention awareness. We want to thank the schools of Schuyler County for participating and promoting Fire Prevention.

This season there were five structure fire incidents that destroyed two small barns and a small cabin and caused slight damage to one apartment building and one house. Through the quick, efficient, and dedicated efforts of the county's volunteer fire departments, all of the incidents were quickly contained. Estimates of the losses due to damage are $39,000 total. However, the value of the properties was $184,300, which means Schuyler County firefighters saved $145,300 in property! The most important result for this year’s program was no injuries to citizens or firefighters.

This outstanding result is a direct reflection of the commitment volunteer firefighters have to provide the utmost service to their communities.

Emergency responders throughout the county were very busy this holiday season. Between November 23 and December 31 they responded to 495 incidents. This is an increase of 85 incidents over 2011.

With the end of this year’s program, we want to remind everyone that “Fire Prevention Starts at Home” and is a year-round activity.

For more information on fire prevention, please contact your local fire department or the Schuyler County Emergency Management Office at 607-535-8200 or find us on the web at www.schuylercounty.us

Schuyler County Emergency Management Office

I'm planning a community Open House

To the Schuyler County Community on Jan. 4:

It is a privilege to introduce myself as the new Director of Catholic Charities in Schuyler County. I began this new role on October 23, 2012. I have 26 years of experience working in various human service organizations in Chemung and Schuyler Counties. For the past six years, I have served as the Executive Director of the Schuyler County Child Care Coordinating Council.

I earned an associate degree from Corning Community College in 1986. After raising my children, I returned to college and earned a bachelor’s degree in Human Services Management from Empire State College in 2010.

I wholeheartedly believe in the mission of Catholic Charities: to help build communities that care for all people by reducing poverty, promoting healthy individual and family life, collaborating with faith communities and advocating for justice and peace. Every person has the potential to succeed when given the right tools. Catholic Charities assists individuals with meeting some of their most basic needs such as shelter, food, and emergency financial assistance and provides ongoing support through case management.

While I am a resident of Chemung County, I believe it is imperative to be a part of the Schuyler County community. It is my goal to know not only what people need, but where to find the resources to meet those needs.

I anticipate working with the Schuyler County Community through Catholic Charities for many years.

I am holding an Open House to meet and connect with community members. Please join me at Schuyler Outreach located at 112 Tenth Street (St. Mary’s of the Lake Center) in Watkins Glen on January 15 from 2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. I look forward to meeting you there.

Debra MacDonald
Agency Director
Catholic Charities of Schuyler County

Call now to save the CASA program

To the Editor on Dec. 30:

The NYS Office of Court Administration, which provides funding for the Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children (CASA), recently announced that it is eliminating its $800,000 funding for CASA in 2013 because of budget constraints.

This program provides one-to-one advocacy to help children in foster care grow up in safe, permanent and loving homes. CASA programs utilize professionally trained staff and volunteers to monitor the mental health, physical health, education and permanency plans for children placed in foster care. Their advocacy is life-changing for thousands of children across the state. It is a program that pays for itself many times over at an average cost of $1,000 per child served.

CASA volunteers are currently supporting 79 at-risk children in the Southern Tier -- and this only represents about 8% of current open cases. While local Family Court Judges are urgently requesting increased advocacy, the cuts to the 2013 program puts the representation of even the current 79 children in jeopardy.

After what we recently witnessed in Newtown, Connecticut, we need even more services to preserve children’s mental health -- not the elimination of vital programs.

Please call the Office of Court of Appeals, Chief Judge Lippman, at (212) 661-6787 and urge him not to allow the elimination of CASA funding statewide. The message is, “We urge you to stop the elimination of funding statewide to the CASA Program. It has been incredibly successful in helping children who have been abused and neglected to navigate the system of foster care, and grow up in safe, permanent and loving homes.”

Donations can also be made to CASA of the Southern Tier at www.casasoutherntier.org.

Thank you so much for your support of children in need in your local community.

Christie McCarthy
Board Member, CASA of the Southern Tier

Thanks to the parishioners at St. Mary's

To the Editor on Dec. 30:

On behalf of the board of directors of The Arc of Schuyler, I wish to sincerely thank the parishioners of Saint Mary’s of the Lake Church in Watkins Glen for their continued generosity to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Schuyler County.

For many years, St. Mary’s congregation has ensured through its annual holiday gift drive that more than 60 people receiving residential supports through The Arc have a gift to open on Christmas morning. People are delighted with the gifts they received this year, and I would like to extend their joyful appreciation as well.

I would also like to acknowledge Terri Orbin for heading this charitable effort. My heartfelt appreciation goes to everyone at Saint Mary’s of the Lake for demonstrating true Christmas spirit and compassion in our community.

With gratitude,

Nancy Thomas
Arc Board Member and Program Services Committee Chair

CASA brunch a success; thanks to all

To the Editor on Dec. 21:

CASA of the Southern Tier’s annual “Light of Hope” Brunch at Castel Grisch Winery and Restaurant in Watkins Glen was held December 9, 2012 . This year’s event was well attended and CASA raised $3,000 in much-needed funding toward recruiting and training volunteers to advocate for abused and neglected children in Chemung, Schuyler and Steuben Counties.

CASA wishes to thank everyone who supported our program by attending, and also Castel Grisch for its dedication in helping make this year’s CASA brunch such a success. The wonderful staff at Castel Grisch donated their time to cook, prepare and serve at the brunch. The food was delicious and the staff, as always, did an outstanding job!

With our deepest thanks,

CASA Board and Staff

Ensuring safety is our Number 1 priority

The following letter is being sent home to parents and guardians of school children in the Watkins Glen School District and posted on the district website.

Dear Parents and Guardians:

It is with a very heavy heart I write to you. With the recent tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut’s Sandy Hook Elementary, we all have taken a collective breath and hugged our children a little tighter, loved them more deeply and reflected on the meaning of family. As school Superintendent, I continue to reflect on my role as educational leader and the responsibility I have in ensuring a balance between the safety of our children and the establishment of a comfortable educational environment free of fear.

As a district, our number one priority is ensuring all children have a safe, supportive quality learning environment. Should you or your children have the need for support, please do not hesitate to call the school to arrange for an appointment.

You may notice some changes in access to our schools. I apologize for any inconvenience; however, limiting access, increasing the adherence to a consistent protocol for entry and increased monitoring of those wishing to gain access to the schools are some of the steps I am putting in place as we move forward.

We are fortunate at Watkins Glen to have a School Resource Officer. In spite of the fact that the New York State Legislature in 2009 decided to eliminate State funding to schools for this program, the District and Village of Watkins Glen were able to collaboratively identify a solution that resulted in the full-time assignment of a Village Police Officer at the School. Thank you to Chief Struble for his commitment to problem solving and his willingness to work with the District.

In closing, please know I will do everything possible to ensure the safety of our children. Thank you to the teachers, administrators and all school support staff for your commitment to our children and providing them with a supportive, caring learning environment.

Thomas J. Phillips
Superintendent

Thanks to those who've helped festival succeed; planning has started for 2013

To the Editor on Dec. 15:

The 33rd annual Schuyler County Italian American Festival, celebrated in August, appears to have been a great success. Many thousands of guests attended and enjoyed our event, and those who traveled here from far away supported our community by staying in the area. We believe that the Italian American Festival is an important and valuable asset to the Schuyler County community.

Planning has begun for the 2013 festival to be held at Clute Park in Watkins Glen Aug. 2-4. All of the usual events and attractions will be offered, and some new entertainment will be added.

Recently elected officers are Charlie Scaptura, President/Chairman; Kristina Olevnik, Vice-President; Rocco Scaptura, Secretary; and Shirley and Len Salvatore, Co-Treasurers. All committee chairpersons have remained faithful to the organization, and new members have joined the staff, which has been meeting monthly since October preparing for 2013.

The entire not-for-profit organization is made up of volunteers. We could not present the event without the financial support of our sponsors and the hours and hours of time given by the 100 or more volunteers who work the festival. Our sponsors and our volunteers are essential to the organization.

The parade participants, the crafts and food vendors, the bocce tournament players, the entertainers, Main Event Amusements, American Fireworks Company and all others that participate in the festival are its foundation. We thank them all.

Cooperation and support from Mayor Mark Swinnerton and the village trustees, Superintendent Mark Specchio, Streets Supervisor Donny Perry, all of the village department heads, Parks Manager Michelle Hyde and her staff, Code Enforcement Officer Gordon Wright, and Clerk Donna Beardsley and the office staff are critical to the continuation of the festival. We thank everyone.

We salute Chief Tom Struble and his Watkins Glen Police Department officers for their cooperation. The assistance they give to our committee and our security staff ensures that visitors to the festival have a safe and enjoyable experience. Thanks also to the Schuyler County Sheriff's Department for providing their mobile command station.

Members of the Watkins Glen Fire Department and their rescue squad spend their weekend with us. We, and they, hope their services are not needed, but should a visitor suffer an injury or illness the rescue squad is always there on site and ready for action.

We thank those who help with our events each year including Jim Howell, our talented parade announcer; Mike Stamp at E.C. Cooper Insurance; the Rev. Paul Bonacci of St. Mary's of the Lake Catholic Church for presenting the Mass; Stillman's Greenhouse for providing flowers for the Mass, and the Southern Finger Lakes Women for organizing our pasta-eating contest.

Many thanks to Rick Evans and the Boy Scouts of Troop 2674 who worked tirelessly to keep the park clean of litter.

Some area businesses support the festival through annual contributions, and we give thanks to Wood-Tex for delivering and donating the building used as our headquarters, Jeff's On-site Services and The Glen Theatre for helping with our advertising, and Seneca Harbor Station for the donation of spaghetti and lots of sauce for the pasta-eating contest. Hazlitt's Winery lends a golf cart for our parking personnel, and Lakewood Vineyards, one of our sponsors, also lends golf carts for use by festival officers and security personnel.

We extend special thank-yous to Seneca Beverage Corporation for sponsoring the festival's entertainment for the third consecutive year and Watkins Self Storage for donating a storage unit for our materials and supplies.

We would not be able to hold the festival without the contributions from our major sponsors. Their generous donations are essential for our startup services and we thank: Visions Federal Credit Union, Cargill Salt Inc., H&R Block (Clay Bullers), Chemung Canal Trust Co., Lakewood Vineyards, Hunt Engineers, Architects, Land Surveyors, Community Bank, Lanes Yamaha, Haughey-Wood Funeral Home, Seneca Lodge, HSBC Bank, and the James Anagnost Family for donating the proceeds from their golf tournament. Thanks also to the following 2012 patrons for their donations: Savard's Family Restaurant, Central Asphalt, Schultz & Fitzgerald Dental Associates, Learn Motor Co., Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Stewart P. Wilson Inc./Lakes Gas, and Bower Catering. We hope you will show your appreciation by using the products and services of these great festival supporters.

"Awesome" is the word we hear most following the ground-shaking Saturday night fireworks show. Once again, the American Fireworks Company of Utica presented a display over Seneca Lake that we think is the best show anywhere.

And finally, we thank you, the residents of Schuyler County and the visitors to our area, who attended the festival over its three days. We sincerely hope you had a great time, and we hope you come back to the 2013 Italian American Festival.

We look forward to seeing your smiles on the amusement rides and your joy from a great meal and hearing your applause at the parade and your cheers at the fireworks. This is our reward, and this is what reminds us that it's all worth it and that we've done a right and good thing.

Grazie molto!

Schuyler County Italian American Festival Committee

Chamber seeks award nominations

To the Editor on Nov. 30:

The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce is seeking nominations for outstanding
members to recognize during our Winter Gala/Annual Celebration on January 18, 2013. This year, we would like the public (as well as our members) to submit their suggestions for nominees in the categories below.

Community Spirit Award – Must be awarded to a business and/or individual that has demonstrated leadership and excellence in philanthropy; must have encouraged civic initiatives, and/or facilitated humanitarianism; made a significant contribution within the last five years; and positively impacted the community in which the business operates.

Lifetime Achievement Award – May include a successful partnership of one or more persons; must own or manage a local business and have taken business risks to create jobs or trade over a period of time; must have demonstrated staying power as an established business; must be actively involved in community and civic organizations in Schuyler County over the last 15 years; must be of the stature as to keep the award prestigious and compliment past/future winners; must be respected and recognized throughout the community; and must be a resident or own/manage a business in Schuyler County.

Leader in Business – Must have made a dynamic contribution to the Schuyler County business community within the last decade; must have expanded the business mix in Schuyler County; continues to foster economic opportunity such as creating new job opportunities; must have assumed considerable risk; and be considered a highly respected entrepreneur.

If you know of any great candidates, please complete the nomination forms and return to the Chamber by Tuesday, December 11. The forms are available on the Membership Page of our website here. Forms may be submitted via email to Rebekah@watkinsglenchamber.com or faxed to 607-535-6243 or mailed to 214 N. Franklin Street, Watkins Glen, NY 14891.

Katie Strawser
Office Manager
Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce

Consolidation is not the answer

To the Editor on Nov. 17:

I would like to weigh in on the school consolidation debate going on. I decided, after reading about what is going on, to do some good old-fashioned research on consolidation and school size. I read around 30 articles and reports about these two subjects. I ended up writing an article that is about 10 pages, obviously too long to submit here in its entirety, so I will provide a summary. Everything included in this summary is based on real published research and I am more than willing to provide resources to those who would like them.

For the full text of this letter, click here.

Legislators aren't doing their job

To the Editor on Nov. 15:

Tuesday night, in an astounding display of sheer ineptitude, the Schuyler County Legislature failed to make the tough choices and instead decided to pass the buck. Rather than seeking a solution to the unchecked, rampant spending that has been occurring in most halls of government across our country, our elected leaders opted to not only approve a Local Law permitting it to exceed its state tax cap of 3.38%, but it also voted to shift $400,000 in community college chargeback costs to the towns. Perhaps even more astonishing is that the decision to pass the buck was made with a vote of 6 to 2.

Fundamentally, we’ve seen an increased local tax burden driven by the continuous expansion of local government spending. Ask yourself: After this year, what about the next? Better yet, what about the past 10 or 20? I’m not a soothsayer, but I can tell you with a great deal of surety that your taxes will go up again and the County will continue to kick more expense down to the other communities which ultimately go to you and me. Your local government is essentially taking the easy path and forcing others to deal with something that they are unwilling to do. To make matters worse, they address the rest of the budget gap (and doesn’t it seem like there’s always a budget gap?) by continuing to feed the monster and raising taxes. This will undoubtedly be coupled with a respective increase that you’ll likely receive from the other governments too who are now directly affected by the chargeback when they have new budget problems of their own.
We talk of terms like "sustainable" in energy, finances and government. If the region as a whole doesn’t look at how to curb excessive spending, learn how to do more with less, and yes, even reduce "pet" services, then, my friends, there is no way for us to get back on track.

Case in point. The main problem with property tax is that it is very rigid. It is completely unrelated to the taxpayer’s income, and can in fact go up when personal earnings fall. Even if property assessment values do not change, taxpayers are hit hard by property taxes in a recession, when many have to accept a decline in income. Endless tax hikes do nothing to help our community, and I am positive that many of our leaders don’t even consider this when they argue dollars and cents

Solving the problem is where the real breakdown lies because it seems like no one either knows how or is willing to tackle it. Are we even considering the larger picture? What happens every time a new source of revenue (i.e. Walmart, the Harbor Hotel) comes on the horizon? Monies from those new sources seem to be spent rather than thinking ahead and putting them as a future down payment towards reducing the tax burden on the residents.

I suppose the blame can’t be put solely on our leaders when we talk about things like unfunded mandates. We’re taught to dodge from a long line of professional wizards in the trade. It starts with our biggest brother, Uncle Sam, who in turn pushes burden down to our middle brother, the State of New York. The process continues by kicking the financial burden down to the smallest of the family, the community governments. Each of them deals with the problem as they see fit, and we rely on our elected officials to look out for us.

To me, it appears Barbara Halpin and Doris Karius (the 2 legislators in the 6-2 vote) are the only two who actually “get it” and understand what needs to be done. It is time our Schuyler County legislators wake up and start making the tough decisions that they were voted into office for. In areas where I see many of our local governments trying to do the right thing by holding tax burdens below the cap, the County (and you can throw the school in there too!) appears to be doing the complete opposite and should be ashamed for turning its back on us as a community.

Start making the right and assuredly tough decisions or the citizens of this County will start looking for your replacements. Let this be a message to the other municipalities that the buck needs to stop somewhere, and that is with their respective Boards. I’ve had enough, haven’t you?

Bill Davis

All singers welcome to join Cantata

To the Editor on Nov. 13:

Any and all singers are invited to sing in this year's Community Christmas Cantata called "A Festival of Carols" to be performed Sunday, December 16 at 7 p.m. at the Montour Falls United Methodist Church in Montour Falls, NY.

First rehearsal will be this Sunday, Nov. 18 at the Montour Falls UM church from 4-6 p.m. There will be scores to purchase at that time. Thank you very much!

Director Kim Laursen

It's time to merge sports programs

To the Editor on Nov. 11:

I want to add my opinion to the discussion of merging school districts. I know that merging school districts is a drastic move that needs to be studied carefully, but I can't believe that we need to have O-M, Watkins Glen, and even Bradford school districts for that matter, within the close proximity that they are. It may indeed mean having to transport students for longer distances, but how far/long is too much?

With declining enrollments, increased pressure to provide a quality education for fewer and fewer students creates increasing costs for taxpayers who are already taxed to the max. The same could be said for post offices. Do we actually need them in Watkins Glen, Odessa, Montour Falls, Alpine, Cayuta, Millport, etc.? Just because we have been used to having them doesn't mean that we NEED them now.

Each of the sports teams have been in decline, for the most part, for the past decade. If Corning and Elmira can merge schools/teams, so can we. And it is long past time that we do it, too. Just my opinion.

Kurt Bischoff

BBQ fundraiser was a success

To the Editor on Nov. 8:

The Schuyler Nursery School would like to thank the entire community for supporting our first annual summer chicken BBQ fundraiser. Our sincerest thank you to the Moose Club for their hard work making sure this fundraiser was successful.

The kids are really enjoying the new playground equipment; including a new caterpillar and new picnic tables. We had planned to purchase two new spring rider horses for the playground, but unfortunately they are on back order until next spring. Instead we were able to use the funds to purchase two new computers for the kids to use; this was a much-needed upgrade for the school.

We look forward to another chicken BBQ next summer. Thank you!

Schuyler Nursery School

Thanks for the donation of new coats

To the Editor on Nov. 8:

As part of Make a Difference Day, the.Camp Monterey Shock Correctional Facility staff graciously donated 22 new coats to Schuyler Head Start children. Sandra Hill organized the donation for Camp Monterey and delivered the coats to Head Start.

Schuyler Head Start serves 102 children in Schuyler County. A big thank you to Superintendent Fields and his staff

Elizabeth Waite
Schuyler Head Start

A thank-you to Coach Terri Brace

To the Editor on Nov. 5:

As the fall swim season comes to a close, I want to thank Terri Brace, coach of the Odessa- Montour Girls Varsity Swim Team. I want to thank her for her patience and skill throughout this season. Despite working full time, opening a new business with her husband and other personal trials I am sure she encountered as a mother, she has remained dedicated and invested in this group of young ladies.

It has been an intense season with ups and downs, but in the end we all have to be proud of the accomplishments of both Terri and the girls. I can only imagine how emotionally hard it can be to work with a group of that many teenage girls; I only have one and it seemed at times impossible.

Terri was a coach, a counselor and a mentor. I say to her: Thank you for all you have done for and put up with this season. No matter what the future brings, you have left a positive imprint on these girls’ lives. Thank you for supporting and believing in this small team, who have fought against the odds to overcome and find individual, if not team, success.

And finally thank you for being an advocate for the O-M swim team and trying to make sure that the kids in Odessa will continue to get the opportunity to swim for the school they love.

Thank you and good luck with the boys' team.

Christy Rumsey

Redistricting plan is fairer to the voters

To the Editor on Nov. 3:

I would like to clarify the reasons the legislature passed a local law to change the composition of the voting districts within the county. The 2010 census revealed inequities in the current apportionment of representation for the County Legislature. The total population variance is just over 15.7% within the current three (3) districts; but of even greater concern is the fact that the current process which mandates residency requirements for candidates has resulted in candidates losing the election and yet acquiring a seat on the legislature, and in recent years discrepancy in how the residency requirement is interpreted for primary elections, leaving grave doubts as to the fairness of the process.

The current legislature studied the redistricting process for several months and I believe have established a more equitable representation for Schuyler residents. There will be eight (8) new districts and a representative from each district with a representation variance of less than 2% in any district. More importantly, because each candidate will run district wide, there will be no opportunity for the unfairness to both voters and candidates which exists in the current system.

I was one of the legislators who voted against the local law that will put this redistricting question to the voters. However, I opposed it because of the implementation process. I fully support the eight (8) districts as proposed. The phased-in implementation will necessitate an additional legislator the first year which will be an added cost to the county; however, consolidation of polling places where appropriate will offset that one-time cost and save taxpayer dollars in the coming years. I plan to vote yes on Proposition No. 1 because it is ultimately fairer to the voters and provides each new district with more equal representation.

If you have questions regarding this important issue, please contact your current legislator or the legislative office at 535-8100. It is important to realize that this Proposition will be on the back of your ballot. Please vote November 6th.

Barbara Halpin
Legislator District 3

We should vote down redistricting plan

To the Editor on Nov. 2:

On November 6th Schuyler County will vote on a proposition to change its districts from which our county legislators are elected. I am not convinced that the change is necessary and suggest that it be voted down.

At present we have three districts. District 1 contains the towns of Orange, Reading and Tyrone and elects two legislators. District 2 contains the towns of Dix and Montour, and elects three legislators. District 3 contains the towns of Catharine, Cayuta and Hector and elects three legislators.

According to various opinions of the federal courts, each legislator should represent an equal number of people. Our population is 18,243, so that figures out to 2,280 for each of our eight legislators.

Since it is almost impossible to make districts exactly equal in population, we are allowed some variation, I believe 10%. According to my calculations, all three of our districts are within that 10%.

The proposed new law would carve up five of our eight towns and create eight districts. It would create problems for our Election Board, requiring different ballots for parts of the same town, and create additional expenses.

The proposed new district plan was adopted on a 5-3 vote in the Legislature. I think it should be voted down and the issue studied further. I doubt that we need to be in a hurry.

I believe our present three-district plan is about the best we can have, and I hope we can keep it.

William C. Elkins

Coach Lee goes above and beyond

To the Editor on Nov. 2:

I am writing because I think the head coach of the Odessa football team, Bob Lee, should be appreciated for things he does that a lot of people do not see.

The one game that they had where five of the players were injured, he went to the ER to check on all of them.

This last game that they had in Moravia, they stopped at the McDonald's in Ithaca on their way back from the game, and there were a couple of the players who did not have money to eat . Coach Lee made sure that those two boys had something to eat. He gave them money to do so.

I think that this should be mentioned because in my eyes, he goes above and beyond to take care of his team.

Debbie Daugherty

Clear thinking is needed before we grab for the brass ring of 'cost savings'

To the Editor on Oct. 31:

Recently it seems the talk of the town has been about mergers. A short while ago there was a great push to force the Village of Odessa to dissolve into the Town of Catherine. Fortunately cooler heads prevailed and that movement was stopped, at least for now. Our Sheriff's Department and Village of Watkins Police Department are using state grants (i.e. your tax money that could be spent to fund those departments) to study the feasibility of becoming one law enforcement agency. Now the talk of the town is to bring our three county school systems into one district.

Our governor is pushing very hard for less local government (while he refuses to end unfunded mandates that are a great burden to local government). All this getting rid of government seems like a grand idea. We live in a nation that rebelled against high taxation. But why this sudden parade down Merger Street? The common and easy answer seems to be "It will cost less money!" But what is the cost? Are we are willing to give up the comforts that our higher tax rates return to us for a savings of a few dollars? Do we expect our children to have 45-minute or more bus rides each day in order to save a few dollars? Are we are willing to have a trooper answer our call for assistance because our deputies are on other calls, even though we pay to have that deputy on duty? Are we are willing to sell our identity for cost savings? Do we really believe that money hungry beast we call Albany and its ugly step-sister Washington are really going to reward us for saving them more money? Or will the beasts demand more of our dollars?

If the State and Federal entities want us to have less, are they are spending less as well? The old adage rings true: "You get what you pay for." So the first question should not be "What do we as taxpayers want to pay for?" It must be "What do we want for our children, for our communities, for our future?" Once these questions are answered, then we must look at the cost and determine if we want to pay for it or not.

I am not saying live it up and I'll pay it all. I am not for austerity either. There must be a balanced approach to take. There are many ways to get more for our tax dollar. I am not sure limiting essential services should be the first or only step we take. The easy task is to grab for the dancing dollar, the hard chore is to determine if there is a greater cost to all of the "savings." All I ask from my fellow citizens are calm, honest and clear thinking before we try for the brass ring of "cost savings."

Bryan A, Chapman

Shinagawa will represent our interests

To the Editor on Oct. 30:

We have rarely ever missed voting in an election; be it local, state, national, or school board and we most definitely will be voting again November 6.

We will be voting for the Congressional candidate who we believe is truly concerned about protecting Social Security, preserving Medicare and Medicaid, concerned about creating jobs, a safe and healthy environment, committed to affordable health care, a quality education for our children, equal treatment for women and so much more. We are entitled to and deserve a Congressman who will put the people’s interests ahead of the special interests. We are entitled to and deserve a Congressman who will embody and fight for the values and principles of the middle class; a Congressman who will oppose tax breaks for companies that ship American jobs overseas. The residents of New York’s 23rd Congressional District deserve Nate Shinagawa as our next Representative in Congress.

We believe Nate will go to Washington and represent our interests rather than the special interests. We are convinced Nate has heard and understands the needs of our District and will work morally and tirelessly to ensure a better, more prosperous future for us, our children and grandchildren.

We are certain Nate will live by and staunchly support the same values and principles we supported throughout our lives. We believe Nate will best represent us in the 113th United States Congress. Please join us and support Nate Shinagawa on November 6. Thank you.

Frank & Betty Coccho
Corning

Democracy must be inclusive

To the Editor on Oct. 28:

This is a plea to the Republicrats who control this process they insist upon calling a "free and fair election."

Can I get a piece of the action?

Can I get a job as a paid poll worker in an upcoming presidential election without converting to either the Republican or Democratic faith? Can I be one of the privileged professionals charged with authenticating and tallying the votes cast at one of our local polling places?

You see, I belong to a minority sect known as the "Greens." We are required to appear before a tribunal comprised exclusively of members in good standing with the ruling bipartite junta. They are, de facto, owners and operators of the entire electoral enterprise. Greens must appear, hat in hand, before some insider politicos to have their petition either validated or voided. Only after their blessing are we allowed a slot on the ballot -- usually in the same neighborhood as the Communist Party (if they make the cut). Oh, and we have to garner a certain quota of votes in the actual election or we will have to go through the arduous and frankly demeaning process again for the next presidential election cycle.

Would somebody connected with the Republican apparatus be willing to risk censure by hiring me to work a local polling place some future November? I know I could handle the job. Ask anyone who attended WGHS with me. I read good. I did OK in math. I'm fairly honest.

I realize I've missed all the deadlines to qualify for this November's election. But here's what I would've done if I'd gotten my act together sooner. I'd have cast my single vote for Jill Stein. I'd have followed up to see it was duly recorded and reported. My overall focus would have been to see as few potential voters as possible were disqualified on arcane or inane technicalities. And that includes those who might have voted for candidates I personally found ridiculous or reprehensible. Democracy must be inclusve, not exclusive.

I want the opportunity to fully participate in the democratic process.

John Q. Smith
Montour Falls

Thank you to all who helped with dinner

To the Editor on Oct. 22:

Huge praise and thank you’s to this wonderful community that made the annual kick off spaghetti dinner for United Way of Schuyler County another overwhelming success. A dollar figure is not yet available, but all proceeds go towards this year’s campaign goal of $123,000 to help support 24 health and human service agencies, all of which improve the quality of life for Schuyler County residents.

To think that a small but very dedicated group of volunteers can serve 505 dinners in the span of two and a half hours is, indeed, a remarkable achievement. The Montour Moose, under the expert leadership of Mike Donnelly and with the able assistance of Sally Hill, put together another fabulous meal. The Lodge’s contributions to this community are immeasurable and difficult to recognize and thank appropriately.

United Way board members John Franzese, Steve Gillette, Jim Kuehl, Deb Simpson, Stacy Woodworth, Mike Learn, Esther Heichel, Daryl Kelly, Glenda Gephart, Bill Yessman, Barb Connelly, Roseanne Doane, Misty Jones, Terri Orbin, Kyle Chedzoy, Sarah Matthews, Mary Crainey, Jeff Greuber and Curt Connelly all played a significant role in the dinner’s success.
Ruth Powers, Kathy Gillette, Bonnie Seeley, Dustin and Dalton Cummings, Brittany Taylor, and Matthew Woodworth stepped in and stepped up when needed.

The Interact clubs of WGCS and OMCS have proved to be invaluable with the overall smooth running of the dinner. They set up, serve, and clean up, and do a wonderful job of representing the youth of this community. Those who attend the dinner always comment and are genuinely impressed with the job they do.

Co-chairs Val and Jerry Carocci and their sons Jared and Jacob greeted the attendees, sold 50/50 tickets, and performed duties throughout the night wherever needed.

This annual event has turned into a dinner that people look forward to attending. Not only do they know they will get a great meal, but they recognize and support United Way of Schuyler County and realize that hundreds of their friends and neighbors benefit from the agencies served.
A very humble but sincere and profound “thank you” to all who made it possible.

Peggy Scott
Executive Director

Shinagawa: The voice of our community

To the Editor on Oct. 19:

Nate Shinagawa: the voice for Middle Class Families – supports a fairer tax system and investment in infrastructure to provide jobs in our district.

Tom Reed:
Voted for tax cuts for companies that ship jobs overseas (HR 9)
Voted to reduce unemployment benefits from 99 Weeks to 59 Weeks (HR 3630)
Voted for tax breaks for big oil companies (HJR 44)

Nate Shinagawa: the voice of Women -- supports women’s healthcare and pay equity.

Tom Reed:
Opposed considering legislation to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act. (HR 597)
Supported restricting women’s reproductive health care. (HR 358)

Nate Shinagawa: the voice of Veterans -- supports training, education, and job opportunities to returning veterans along with health care programs to ensure their emotional and physical well-being back home.

Tom Reed:
Opposed increasing housing assistance for veterans (HR 5972)
Opposed increasing combat pay for troops (HR 1540)

Nate Shinagawa: the voice of Seniors – supports preserving Medicare and Social Security from cuts and attempts to privatize.

Tom Reed:
Voted to make Medicare a voucher system.

Nate Shinagawa: the voice of Our Community -- opposes hydraulic fracturing, supports funding for renewable energy sources and enforcing environmental laws

Tom Reed:
Opposed requiring oil and gas companies to have a disaster plan for oil spills. (HR 1231)
Authorized development of oil shale resources (HR 3408)
Opposed regulating pollutants in drinking water sources (HR 2018)

Carolyn Schaeffer
Penn Yan

Two thumbs up for kids' manners

To the Editor on Oct. 15:

I've been a volunteer with the Watkins Glen Booster Club for a few years and feel it is time to speak up.

On Friday night during a very hectic, very cold football game at Watkins Glen, I jumped in to help our very dedicated volunteers running ragged in the concession stand. I waited on at least 50 young people during a rush for warm food and hot drinks. The lines were 15 feet long and we must have served some 500 fans.

What I notice each time I volunteer during the games is how polite the kids are and that they always say "thank you."

Our young generation does not fall short when it comes to manners at these events. I'd like to recognize them and give credit where credit is due. Two thumbs up!

Mary Fanara (Simiele)

Burke: I support Nate Shinagawa

To the Editor on Oct. 15:

I strongly support Nate Shinagawa -- the candidate who I lost to in last summer's Democratic primary -- to represent us in the U.S. Congress.

I am one of those lucky former candidates who knows that the person who won is aligned with my values. I'm proud to know that Nate is fighting hard to protect and build local jobs, and treat our small businesses and family farms fairly. I also know that Nate will stand up for seniors and women -- two groups who are under relentless Tea Party attacks on their economic and health security.

It has never been more important to come together as Democrats, Independents, and Republicans. We simply have to get past the obstructionist Tea Party ideals advanced by our current congressman, Tom Reed. Our middle class can't afford to stay mired in inaction, and our future depends on making better choices now.

I urge you to join me in voting for Nate Shinagawa in the general election on November 6. Let's send a representative to Congress who will get things done for the people of Western New York, the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes once again.

Leslie Danks Burke

I urge seniors to vote for Shinagawa

To the Editor on Oct. 15:

As a senior on Medicare I have been in the donut hole. You fall into this hole when you and your insurance have paid a certain amount for prescriptions and then you have to pay it all. If you can't afford your medicine you do without. This donut hole is now closing under the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), and many seniors are already being helped.

Tom Reed wants to repeal Obamacare, which would mean that the donut hole would open wide again. Many would suffer. I urge all seniors to vote for Nate Shinagawa for Congress to keep the improvements to Medicare which are helping seniors today. I don't understand why anyone would want to go backwards. There is nothing but good news for seniors in Obamacare.

Peggy Soule
Penn Yan

An open letter to Chairman Fagan

To the Editor on Oct. 13:

I'm directing the following remarks to Dennis Fagan, chairman of the Schuyler County Legislature:

I have been following, with great interest and anxiety, plans of the County Legislature to bypass the property tax increase rate for the upcoming fiscal year and implore you, in the strongest possible terms, to abandon this plan. I fully understand the issues of rising costs, mandates from other governments and limits on your authority but we, as citizens of the county, simply cannot afford to pay these increases.

From my humble perspective, if we cannot afford to do business as in the past, then we must of necessity change the way in which we do business. If this means further cuts in services, then so be it. I do not believe that the Legislature has yet cut services to the bone nor do I believe that they have fully explored consolidation of services with other governments in our little county. Raising taxes is simply a way of allowing all of us to avoid the hard choices which are the only real alternative. Until you convince me, and all other taxpayers, that you have done this I will continue to fight against any extraordinary tax increase. At some point in time, the cost of government will have outstripped the ability of the citizens to support this government and I fully believe that we are there. According to the latest news, the increase in my Social Security check for next year will be 1.3%, yet you expect me to somehow pay a tax increase of six to eight percent.

If nothing else, I demand that you allow the public to address this issue through a public vote, rather than only through a public hearing which will allow you to render our opinions moot.

Nick J. Paradiso Jr.
304 Sixth Street
Watkins Glen

Plan to attend county budget sessions

To the Editor on Oct. 5:

The year 2013 is shaping up to be a very difficult budget year. Preliminary figures seem to indicate that in order to stay under the tax cap the legislature may be looking at program cuts; or the legislature may choose to override the tax cap.

The allowable tax cap for 2013 is a 4% increase in the property tax levy. The legislature has a resolution on the agenda for Tuesday evening to override that cap.

Please plan to attend the regular meeting Tuesday evening, October 9 at 6:30 p.m. and the budget workshops. The workshops are currently scheduled for Wednesday, October 10 at 9:15 a.m., Thursday, October 18 at 9:15 a.m. and Wednesday, October 24 at 1:00 p.m. They are all held in the legislative chambers in the Court House complex.

You will be directly affected by the decisions that are made by the legislature. Your input is appreciated.

Barbara Halpin
Legislator, District III

O-M relay swimmers are amazing

To the Editor on Sept. 26:

I just wanted to say how very proud I am of the Odessa-Montour girls swim team, but in particular of the 200 and 400 Free Relay teams of Maia Rumsey, Jordan Little, Taylor Rounds and Jenelle Bleiler. I did a little research and found out a few amazing facts:

Since Odessa has been competing in the EFA Invitational they have not placed above 8th in the 200 Free Relay and 7th in the 400 Free Relay.

This relay team placed 6th in the 200 Free Relay. When you take into account that the format of the invitational was changed, they would have placed 4th in previous years, and officially earned the points as if they had placed 4th. (Teams were allowed to have more than one relay in the finals, thus Horseheads actually had three relays place in the top 6, so they earned medals for those places but were only allowed to garner points from their top place).

Their 200 Free Relay time was the fastest achieved by an Odessa team at either the EFA Invitational or Section C championships since 2000

Their 400 Free Relay time was the fastest achieved by an Odessa team at either the EFA Invitational or Section C championships since 2001

All this information was gathered from the Section 4 Swimming website found at www.section4swim.com

I think they should be incredibly proud of themselves. A relay team made up entirely of juniors did what no one else has been able to accomplish in over 10 years. I think they are an amazing bunch of young ladies and I am excited to see what will happen for the next half of the season, as well as next year when they will be seniors!

Christy Rumsey

Lacrosse fundraiser was a success

To the Editor on Sept. 26:

A Big THANK YOU from Watkins Glen Senecas Lacrosse to all our supporters. Our first fundraiser was successful!

Thank you to volunteers -- Chip Dunham, Jim Bond, Brett Beardslee, Jimmer Bond, Tim Dunham, Jackson Dunham, Tanner Dunham. Thank you to those who donated goods/funds -- Watkins Glen McDonald's, Mary Parmenter, Williams Oil, Danny Mayes, Hector Fudge, Odessa File, Patti Butler, Mike Myers, Becky Sue Bianco, Shelia Klemann. Thank you to Tammy Clarkson for ticket sales, and a special thanks to Guy Schamel for his support.

Thank you to everyone who stopped in to enjoy the Chicken BBQ and Pulled Pork!

Kelly McCarthy

Watkins CVS is offering flu shots

To the Editor on Sept. 20:

I just wanted to let your faithful readers know that we are offering flu shots at CVS anytime the pharmacy is open. We have convenient hours (8-8 during the week and 9-5 weekends) and no appointment is necessary. The shot is free to anyone who is enrolled in Medicare or Medicaid and we can usually get you in and out within 15 minutes.

I know there are some doctors' offices that don't even have their shots in stock yet, so this is a great alternative to waiting for that (or for the actual flu!). Thank you and here's to a healthy flu season!

Kristy Wood, PharmD
CVS, Watkins Glen

I support the change to comptroller

To the Editor on Sept. 19:

In November Schuyler County voters are going to decide whether to create a County Comptroller position appointed by the Legislature or retain the present process in which the County Treasurer position is elected by the voters. Some things to consider:

According to the proposed job description the Comptroller will be responsible for management of the receipt and disbursements of all county taxpayer dollars annually. To perform all the duties of the position requires specific education, skills and/or working knowledge in accounting, internal controls and audit practices, investment practices, bond markets, personnel management, tax laws, computer systems, and general business practices in the public sector. Question -- does the elective process attract candidates that best meet these requirements?

Currently the Schuyler County Treasurer reports directly to the electorate. There is no immediate supervisor to provide day-to-day oversight of their activities and evaluate their performance. Successful corporations have learned that an integrated organization working toward common goals is critical to their success. In such businesses the treasurer typically reports to a higher level in the organization, not the stockholders! The proposed Comptroller will be hired by the County Legislature and will report through the County Administrator to the legislature. As in the private sector, effective checks and balances are achieved through prudent budget management, the use of proper internal controls, the audit process and periodic reporting to superiors and peers. Ultimate accountability for receipt and disbursement of taxpayer dollars rests with the entire legislative team.

I spent my career working in management in the private sector for a U.S. Government prime contractor. I have also worked in the public sector as a Secretary/Treasurer in a small municipality and a short time here in the Schuyler County Purchasing Department as Purchasing Agent. I’ve experienced the success of a totally integrated management team. Conversely, I have seen first-hand the problems Schuyler County has dealt with under its current system.

I support the changes proposed by the legislature. Further, I understand the existing elected Treasurer was instrumental in the recommendation to the legislature that the position become an appointed one. I want the most effective management of, and accountability for, my taxpayer dollars. I think that hiring the most qualified person utilizing a formal competitive selection process and making him or her part of an integrated management team will produce better results than relying on the somewhat unpredictable elective process and the present organization.

Jerry Smyder
Burdett, NY

Let's wake up and connect the dots

To the Editor on Sept. 18:

On Sunday, September 16th, a crash involving a Subaru and a propane tanker truck shut down Route 14 in Watkins Glen. Thankfully, the tanker happened to be empty. But if the Missouri-based Inergy gets the go-ahead to turn our community into its Northeast hub for gas storage and transport, we can expect more accidents like this.

Ironically, on September 15th, there was a ground-breaking ceremony for developer Bruce Nelson, who is renovating the nearby Waterworks building into luxury condos. On September 26th, there will be a ribbon-cutting to open Route 414 as the Seneca Lake Scenic Byway.

Are we fostering the area as a tourist destination? Or are we industrializing it for the gas industry? These two visions are not compatible.

Who wants to buy a condo down the hill from flare stacks, brine pits, and caverns full of explosive gases? Who wants to leaf-peep along a scenic byway full of tanker trucks?

It is time for all of us to wake up, connect the dots, and stop Inergy.

Yvonne Taylor
Co-Founder, Gas Free Seneca

Let's vote to make Watkins the coolest

To the Editor on Sept. 14:

Watkins Glen has an amazing opportunity to become America’s COOLEST Small Town
for 2013! You may recall that Budget Travel chose our neighbor Hammondsport last year. Well, we want to keep the recognition in the Finger Lakes and make Watkins Glen the next COOLEST Small Town!

Budget Travel is taking nominations for the title until October 15th. All week long, Watkins Glen has held the #1 spot for the nomination but Thursday, we dropped to 2nd place. It’s extremely important that we stay in 1st or 2nd place until October 15th. That is the day the nominations close and only the top 10 destinations can be voted on throughout the country.

WE NEED EVERYONE'S HELP! To ensure that Watkins Glen stays in the race until October
15th, we need people to click the “thumbs up” symbol next to Watkins Glen every 24 hours at this link: http://www.budgettravel.com/contest/coolest-small-towns-2013-nominations,13/

(Editor's note: click here.)

Share the link with everyone you know.

After October 15th, Watkins Glen will have a secure spot in the top 10. Then we’ll continue voting until January for the #1 spot.

Why should we all do it? This designation brings in national media recognition for the area, attracting more tourists and more dollars. Remember, this isn’t just for Watkins Glen. It's for Schuyler County, the Finger Lakes region and New York State. So let’s continue to vote every day!

Watkins Glen is America’s COOLEST Small Town, and it’s time we let the world know.

Nikita Hairston
Director of Tourism & Marketing
Watkins Glen

Thanks to those who made sale a success

To the Editor on Sept. 11:

Thank you! The Hector Presbyterian Church Annual Attic Sale Committee extends a sincere thank you to everyone who made our recent sale a success.

We especially want thank Jack and Joan Merrill, Kirton’s Farm Market, the Finger Lakes Cheese Trail, Rob Swinnerton, Glen Mountain Market, Charlie Haeffner, Jeanne Gridley, Vicki Schamel, Ellie Fausold, and Kate Sinko. We thank everyone who donated items and especially want to recognize the hard work and commitment of the volunteers who sorted, priced, moved, and provided customer service.

The funds raised during this sale will go toward the local and global mission work of the church.

Hector Presbyterian Church Annual Attic Sale Committee

Vote no to change in Treasurer's post

To the Editor on Sept. 9:

I concur with Mr. Rondinaro that the County Treasurer's post should remain an elected post.

I suspect there are efficiencies to be realized by making it an appointed position. However, I like the idea that the people, Schuyler County voters, are savvy enough to vote in individuals with a heart to serve, great personal integrity and hopefully the job skills to fulfill the post as well.

What I see as the single most important reason to oppose the initiative to create the appointed title of Comptroller, is the pay increase that would necessarily follow. Department head salaries have been brought in line with the pay scales of other NYS counties. The Treasurer willingly campaigned for and took the Schuyler County post with an annual salary somewhere in the high fifties. Making a Comptroller title vs. the elected Treasurer position would require a salary revision upward of about $30,000 annually. This would bring the Comptroller's salary in line with his title, and the salary level currently being paid in other NYS counties that utilize an appointed Comptroller rather than an elected Treasurer.

The Treasurer's accountability should remain first to the electorate and only secondarily to the Legislature.

Let's not help grow our local government. This Election Day, vote no to Local Law #6.

Paul Marcellus
Watkins Glen

I encourage everyone to attend hearing

To the Editor on Sept. 8:

I would like to remind all Schuyler County residents that on Monday, September,10th, at 6:45 p.m., the Schuyler County Legislature will hold a public hearing on Local Law #6 of 2012, which proposes to eliminate the elected office of County Treasurer, replacing it with a County
Comptroller appointed by the Legislature and under the jurisdiction of the County Administrator. This public hearing will take place in the legislative chambers in the County Building in Watkins Glen. The text of the proposed local law may be obtained from
http://www.schuylercounty.us/Agendas/Reg%20Meeting%20Resolutions.pdf.
The local law is found beginning on page 31 of this document.

I am opposed to the passage of this law. The citizens of Schuyler County should be wary of any proposal to give away their rights to select the officials that they wish to serve them. The County
Treasurer acts as the chief financial oversight officer in the county, and is responsible directly to the people of the county. Making this office accountable to the County Administrator removes the separation of powers required by the oversight function inherent in this position, and makes financial malfeasance much more likely to go undetected.

The Legislature has made many good arguments in favor of this law, most of which are encapsulated in the text of the law itself. Most of these can be encapsulated into a single word: efficiency. The current system of electing a Treasurer does not allow the Legislature to set
qualifications for the position, nor to remove the occupant of the position if he or she is not able to fulfill the requirements of the job. I would point out that these same inefficiencies exist in the
position of elected Sheriff. I doubt that anyone would argue that the Sheriff's position is less responsible, or that it is requires less in the way of knowledge or training. Does the Legislature propose that an appointed chief law enforcement officer is next on the agenda?

This issue has arisen in the context of recent problems in the Treasurer's office. There was a great deal of contention as to the source of the problem, but I would argue that last year's election has settled this issue. All involved parties seem to agree that the current Treasurer is working well with the Legislature, and so the current system has resolved the problem satisfactorily, though not perhaps in the quickest or cheapest manner. The current Treasurer has
more than three years remaining in his term. Why not postpone this law for a year or two, and look at this matter from a greater distance? Perhaps the motive, as Rahm Emanuel stated, is that “You never want a serious crisis to go to waste. And what I mean by that is it's an opportunity to do things you think you could not do before.”

I encourage all residents to attend this public hearing and let the Legislature know your opinions on this issue.

Mark Rondinaro

Sports cars will visit downtown Montour

To the Editor on Sept. 5:

The Grand Prix Festival of Watkins Glen will once again hold the “Montour Mile” in downtown Montour Falls on Friday, Sept.7, 2012. Main Street will close by 10:45 a.m. in anticipation of 130 vintage and sports cars filling the streets. These drivers and navigators will take a moment to get to know Montour Falls while stretching their legs. Once all the cars have arrived, the group will then depart for a lap of Schuyler Hospital’s Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility.

The Festival committee greatly appreciates the residents and businesses of the Village of Montour Falls welcoming this group every year. Please be advised that there will be an interruption in traffic flow that day during that time. The organizers try very hard to keep this part of the event to the shortest time-frame possible. The streets re-open at noon.

Please come down to the Village before 10:45 a.m. and cheer on the cars and drivers.

Terrie Sautter
Glenora Run Chair

Raffle will raise ambulance funds

To the Editor on Aug. 30:

We’re launching a new ‘FUN’Raiser event being sponsored by The Great Escape Ice Cream Parlor in Watkins Glen. Tickets have begun to sell for the Doll House being raffled in support of Schuyler Ambulance. The Doll House, made by Bob Andrews of Dundee, NY, and all the furnishings inside are worth over $300. When you stop in to get ice cream you can see the Doll House and get tickets to the raffle drawing scheduled for Sunday, October 7. Your ice cream purchase counts towards earning you more tickets.

We would like to thank Peter Honsberger, owner of the ice cream store, and Bob Andrews for donating their time and handiwork to Schuyler Ambulance. Please stop in and enjoy over 26 homemade Soft Serve Flavors, Gelato, Glazed Roasted Nuts, Ice Cream Cupcakes, and New Fudge Flavors available to eat in the store. The store is located at 221 South Franklin Street Watkins Glen, NY 14891. If you have questions about the Doll House or raffle, call (607) 535-7354. The drawing will be held onsite at the store and the winning ticket will be drawn by Schuyler County Sherriff Bill Yessman.

Schuyler Ambulance was formed in 1969 to provide first-response emergency medical service to Schuyler County. We have recently acquired our 501C3 status and are now officially recognized as a charity organization. The association employs between 25 and 45 people (depending on the season) and has a volunteer membership of over 20 people most of the year. Its operating budget is over $800,000 a year and it owns 5 ambulances fully equipped for Advanced Life Support. SCVAA receives no financial support from the Federal, State, County, Village or Town. It is supported by service contracts, insurance payments, and donations only.

For more information about Schuyler Ambulance or to volunteer your time, visit SchuylerAmbulance.org.

Schuyler Ambulance

With thanks to a caring community

To the Editor on Aug. 30:

On behalf of my entire family, I would like to thank all the emergency workers, police, and others who assisted at the scene of the August 26 accident on Route 414 that claimed the life of my brother-in-law Robert Finney while he and my sister Amy were visiting us. I would also like to thank the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home for the compassionate help provided to my sister as she experienced the loss of her husband when she was far from home, the support offered by friends and neighbors, and the kindness extended by the Watkins Glen girls varsity swim team to my daughter Alice in the loss of her beloved Uncle Bobby.

We have the consolation of knowing that his last days were happy ones spent in our beautiful part of the world enjoying life with family.

Diane Crispell
Burdett

Child care costs are continuing to rise

To the Editor on Aug. 28:

On August 15, 2012, Child Care Aware® of America released its 2012 update of "Parents and the High Cost of Child Care." The report shows that the cost of child care continues to increase while families struggle to afford quality child care.

The report provides the average cost of child care in 2011 for infants, 4-year-olds, and school-age children in centers and family child-care homes nationwide. New York State ranked first as the least-affordable state for child care.

Families need child care in order to work. But child care today is simply too expensive for many families.You shouldn’t have to choose between paying rent and quality care for your children.

In New York State, the cost of center-based infant care was $14,009 and care for a 4-year-old was $11,585. In a family child-care home the cost for infant care was $10,358 and care for a 4-year-old was $9,620.

Quality child care has a huge impact on children’s school readiness, which impacts success in school and throughout life. Many parents simply cannot afford licensed child care and are choosing informal care.

All families should have access to quality, affordable child care so that children are safe and in a place that supports healthy development. It is time to look at the financing of child care as costs rise and an increasing number of families of all income levels struggle to pay the costs.

To read the entire report and see what you can do, visit: www.naccrra.org

Debbie MacDonald
Executive Director
Schuyler County Child Care Coordinating Council

A poem in honor of Michael Czarnecki

To the Editor on Aug. 21:

The "Doctor C." in the following piece refers to Michael Czarnecki, a philosopher/poet/publisher and friend. His home/business was recently destroyed by fire.

His enterprise, Foothills Publishing, enabled many local writers to see their poetry and artwork in a published form called a Chap Book. He provided local artists/writers the means to present their creations in a tangible form to the public. His friends/clients ("the patients" in the following bit of word play) want to help him back onto his financial feet.

Some fund-raisers are in the works to help this man and his family regain their home and financial security. One such endeavor will be at the Old Havana Courthouse Theatre in Montour Falls from 5 to 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, August 26.

Foothills Publishing should not be allowed to become merely a footnote in history.

John Q. Smith

Obstetrician

Inner -- in utero -- images and insights
Somber, serious struggles with sorrow
Ranting and raving with righteous rage
Reflections on fleeting alliances and lifelong lovers
Exuberant exclamations of ecstatic elation
Words of wisdom awaiting a welcome into the world

Unheard. Unseen. Unreleased ... Unborn.
Locked in lingering labor, longing for delivery

But wait ...
Have you seen Doctor C.?
He will facilitate release for your literary legacies
He will tender tactful prenatal treatment to you too
Coaching. Coaxing. Calming.
And caring. Constantly caring.

What's that you say?
His office is out of order?

So what ...
I say that's certainly a surmountable setback
I assume Dr. C. will soon resume
Supplying aspiring scribblers with the
Successful release of their soul's secrets

However ...
To prolong his practice, we "patients" must pay
Don't delay. Deliver donations today!

--JQS

Vacation Bible School was great success

To the Editor on Aug. 21:

I wanted to share what a great gift our Odessa Community Vacation Bible School group was this year.

This year the Bible School leaders chose to do a special mission of providing five backpacks to the Odessa-Montour Central School. The backpacks, along with supplies, were financed by parents of Bible School participants. There was one backpack for one student each in grades 1 through 5, the specific recipients to be selected by the school guidance and nurse's offices.

We started out the beginning of the week asking the children to pick a "supply" for the "big" backpack. It was great to see the kids look for their grade or their brother's or sister's grade to pick from the list of supplies on hand. Our last night, Thursday, we had filled all five backpacks. The picture I am sending you is the finished product full of all the supplies a child will need for that specific grade and/or teacher. It was a great project and the school is very appreciative of our gift!

To give you a little background, the Odessa Community Churches -- which for our VBS consists of the Odessa Baptist, Methodist and Wesleyan Churches -- all support the VBS monetarily and, with the support of our congregations, help lead classes, games, story time and crafts. This year we averaged 27 kids each night. It has been great to see the kids come back year after year and see how they've grown.

Thanks to all of those who volunteered and provided support, and to the kids and parents who made our 2012 VBS a great success.

Kristi A. Pierce
Director - Odessa VBS

There is time to sign up for library class

To the Editor on Aug. 15:

You still have time to sign up for an early fall class that has been re-scheduled, a block printing class at two Schuyler libraries.

The libraries will be hosting Cynthia Cratsley Harrington, an art teacher in the Horseheads School District. The class will be held at the Dutton S. Peterson Memorial Library in Odessa at 10 a.m. and at the Watkins Glen Public Library at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 15. It will be open to those 8 years and above. Class size is limited due to space.

Sign- ups will be at each library: Odessa at 594-2791 or Odessa@stls.org; Watkins at 535-2346 or Watkins@stls.org.

Harrington will discuss the history of block printing and provide instruction on a background design, cutting your design, and printing using a brayer and ink. Each class member will complete a project.

This is an ideal craft to help you make your personalized cards. The class is free, as this project was made possible in part with a QuickARTS funding grant from the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc. administered by the ARTS Council of the Southern Finger Lakes.

Bonnie Schweizer

Reminder about a public hearing

To the Editor on Aug. 12:

I would like to remind all Schuyler County residents that tomorrow evening's regular meeting of the Schuyler County Legislature (Aug. 13) will contain a public hearing on the proposed local law to implement legislative redistricting in Schuyler County. The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. I do not know the scheduled time for the public hearing, as the agenda and resolutions for the meeting have not yet been posted on the Schuyler County website. I encourage all residents to attend this meeting.

For those residents who are unaware of the contents of the proposed local law, a copy of the law, along with maps showing the implementation of the plan over its three-year phase-in period, can be found in the bottom two links on the page at http://www.schuylercounty.us/redistricting.htm.

I encourage all residents to attend this meeting and provide feedback to the legislature about the plan and its implementation.

Mark Rondinaro

Tea Party meeting set for Aug. 1

To the Editor on July 28:

The Odessa Tea Party group would like to invite everyone to our next regular meeting on Wednesday, August 1 at 7:00 pm. We meet in the Community Room of the Odessa Municipal Building at 300 East Main Street in Odessa, NY.

At this meeting, our group will host Schuyler County Sheriff William Yessman, who will address the group about the powers and duties of the Sheriff and his role in County Government. Sheriff Yessman will also be taking questions from those attending the meeting.

The County Sheriff has traditionally been seen as the individual with primary responsibility for the maintenance of good order within the county. We elect the Sheriff to serve and protect our common interests, and it is vital that all citizens have a relationship of mutual trust with the Sheriff and his office. We hope that this meeting will provide an opportunity for all Schuyler County residents to meet with the Sheriff, learn about his responsibilities, and publicly discuss any questions or concerns that they might have. Please join us for this informative and important meeting.

Mark Rondinaro

My Place facility is nearing capacity

To the Editor on July 28:

My Place: A Play and Learning Center (located at the former Rural Urban Center in Montour Falls) wants to share with the community that we are doing very well and are almost at full capacity. Our two Infant rooms and Toddler room are currently full. Our Preschool and School-Age rooms have just a few spaces available.

My Place teachers, assistants and aides are doing an excellent job planning and implementing a wonderful curriculum based on play and discovery. One of the goals at My Place is to foster the healthy cognitive, physical and social development of your children. Children enjoy librarian visits, walks in our community, music, art, play, discovery, and so much more here at My Place. For more information about enrollment or weekend care, please contact us at 607-535-8908.

My Place: A Play and Learning Center would like thank the community and our My Place families for their continued support. We strive to keep parent fees affordable and appreciate those in the community who have donated equipment and funds. We will continue to fundraise with our mission in mind: to provide affordable, dependable, quality childcare to our community, enabling parents to become employed and retain employment.

“I have been a stay-at-home mom to my three children for the last 10 years. My Place is the type of daycare I had wanted for my children, but didn’t have the option until now. I am happy with my decision to enroll my youngest child at My Place.” -- Preschool Parent

“My Place is fun because you meet a lot of new people and friends, and My Place has a lot of nice teachers. “ -- Natalie, School Age Room

My Place Director Audrey Edmister

Crosley to be honored in sports novel

To the Editor on July 25:

Tim Green, established author of youth sport books, former Syracuse University football star and NFL All-Pro defensive end and first draft pick of the Atlanta Falcons, will feature Gerry Crosley in his next youth sports novel, Perfect Storm.

Mr. Green, a Skaneateles, NY resident, often solicits his readers for characters, sayings and mannerisms for his fictional novels for young adults. He recently made a request on Face Book for “most favorite” high school science teachers, from which to base a new character in his upcoming novel.

On July 2, 2012, Gerry Crosley was selected, out of 62 entries, to be the name of the science teacher in the book.

Crosley, who passed away several years ago, was a longtime Odessa-Montour Central School chemistry and earth science teacher and successful varsity track coach who coached two undefeated junior varsity football seasons in 1970 and 1971. Mr. Crosley was survived by his wife Barbara and two daughters.

Dan Carman
OMCS Class of ‘74

Thanks to WGCS for hosting camp

To the Editor on July 20:

I would like to take a moment to thank the Watkins Glen Central School District for stepping up and accommodating the 21st annual Finger Lakes Basketball Camp.

The camp has become a summer tradition for many players and coaches in the Twin Tiers, but became in jeopardy due to construction at the traditional site at Odessa-Montour. Thanks to the hospitality shown by WGCS, the camp was once again a success.

Special thanks to coaches John Fazzary and Chris Clark, and to Gayle Sedlack and the staff in the district office, Mike DeNardo and his maintenance staff, and superintendent Tom Phillips. It was a pleasure working with you this summer.

Greg Gavich
Finger Lakes Basketball Camp

Tea Party to host Palmesano

To the Editor on July 13:

The Odessa Tea Party group would like to invite everyone to our next regular meeting on Wednesday, July 18th at 7:00 pm. We meet in the Community Room of the Odessa Municipal Building at 300 East Main Street in Odessa, NY.

This meeting will be the first of our 2012 series of "Meet the Candidate" events. We will be hosting Assemblyman Phil Palmesano, who will be running as a Republican in the newly redistricted 132nd Assembly District of the NYS Assembly. This district has been revised to now include all of Schuyler County as well as Yates County, the majority of Steuben County, and portions of Chemung and Tioga Counties. Our current Assemblyman Chris Friend's district has been shifted to the East, so we should all be interested to meet Assemblyman Palmesano and decide if he is the right person to represent us.

We request that anyone wishing to submit a question for the Assemblyman please do so in advance, so that he can prepare a thoughtful answer. Please send all questions to wcard@mac.com by July 15. We look forward to hosting a lively meeting to kick off this important political season.

Mark Rondinaro
for the Odessa Tea Party Group

Long will provide principled action

To the Editor on June 25:

I would like to remind all registered Republicans that Tuesday, June 26 is primary day in New York State. Republican voters will be choosing their candidate for the United States Senate seat currently held by Democrat Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. All three Republican candidates for this nomination are well qualified, but I will be supporting Wendy Long.

Wendy Long is a strong conservative, and has already earned the nomination of the New York State Conservative party. She is also a true Constitutionalist, and is supported by Tea Party and constitutionalist groups throughout the state. Finally, Ms. Long has shown that she understands that New York State extends beyond Albany on the North and does not end at the Catskill Mountains on the West.

She has held many "meet and greet" sessions in upstate areas. For example, all three Republican candidates were invited to the April 15th "Tax Day Rally" in Watkins Glen this year. All the candidates committed to attend, but only Ms. Long actually appeared and fulfilled her commitment. We need straight talk and principled action in Washington, and Wendy Long will provide that as our Senator.

Mark Rondinaro

Last-minute reminder to Democrats

To the Editor on June 24:

I encourage my Democrat neighbors to vote in the June 26 Primary Election for their preferred choice of a candidate to be on the November ballot in this important race. This is a difficult race and a very important race, as the first for the new 23rd Congressional District, and with a multitude of issues that cry out for intelligent decision-making in Washington.

At the meet-the-candidates program here, I was impressed with Leslie Danks Burke's understanding of issues, ability to think quickly and respond on her feet, often adding a nuance or example from meeting folks in this large Congressional District, and always with a sense of appreciation for our environment with its lakes, hills and natural beauty and potential -- and for the people. She truly listens and is well-prepared to represent us.

Check out her website: www.lesliefornewyork.com. You'll find Leslie's "take" on the economy, jobs, women's issues, agriculture, the environment, fracking, energy, health care, education, all issues of concern. I was especially impressed with Leslie's reading list; her concise descriptions of issues are excellent.

I have already voted for Leslie by absentee ballot. I hope you will vote on Election Day -- Tuesday, June 26, between 12 noon and 9 p.m. at your usual polling place. I suggest that if there is any question as to enrollment or polling place, you call the Board of Elections (535-8195) ahead of time. The Democratic ballot is "easy." You fill in the circle for your choice (Leslie Danks Burke is the third candidate in the row) and insert a paper ballot in the scanner to be counted. Your vote is important!

Denny Teeter
Burdett

The Montour Moose Lodge 426 Motorcycle Riders. (Photo provided)

Thanks to the Motorcycle Riders

To the Editor on June 19:

Schuyler Outreach Food Pantry would like to thank the Montour Moose Lodge 426 Motorcycle Riders. These riders hosted a Food Pantry ride in which they brought canned food as well as collected money.

It is because of these events and dedicated people that our Schuyler Outreach Food Pantry is able to provide a variety of items for our less fortunate neighbors.

Once again, please accept our thanks.

Jessie Ketter
Schuyler Outreach
Catholic Charities of Schuyler County

A Waterfront Festival letter of thanks

To the Editor on June 19:

The weather was superb for the Watkins Glen Waterfront Festival! Mike Morse of Pro Audio Consulting and his crew provided a beautiful showcase for the tranquility of the Seneca Harbor Park Marina during the Harbor Night ~ Harbor Lights event on Friday evening. Huge thanks to our Harbor Lights sponsor, The Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, supported by Seneca Harbor Station, Seneca Lake Wine Trail, WiNGZ 104.9 and Village Marina Bar & Grill. Mike and his Crew from Pro Audio provided a beautiful show with huge support from the Village of Watkins Glen Electric Department and Schuyler County Buildings and Grounds.

The sun came out Saturday morning and never left us! Voting for the most popular boat raised over $1,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Over 80 boats registered for this year’s event. Though a large percentage of the boats finished the event, not all of those that crossed the finish line looked anything like what they did at the launch.

We thank the Watkins Glen Fire Department, Watkins Glen Village Police and the Schuyler County Sheriff’s Safety crew, and the announcers of the Cardboard Radio Network for a job well done. While it takes a Village and a County to put this event on…there is a core group of hardy volunteers who are responsible for putting together this event year after year! You know who you are…please know that as always, it was a job well done.

Last, but never least, we thank the boat builders, the captains and crews! The real stars of the event…!

You come in all shapes and sizes and from all backgrounds…yet you all gather on a Saturday in June, and give those of us who line the harbor a fantastic show…an afternoon of laughter…and a look at true determination.

From all of us, we salute you, the 2012 Class of Cardboard Sailors of the Seneca Harbor Park Marina!

Caryl Sutterby, Event Chair

Recalling Odessa as it used to be

To the Editor on June 18:

I grew up in Odessa in the 1940's and 50's. While I left in 1960, I return for two weeks each summer to visit my old stomping grounds. The VTO was a great spot to eat and I'll miss it. As you noted, the building for many, many years was a grocery store. It was owned by the Letteer Brothers. It's also possible the building housed a meat market owned by a man and wife named Carrigan. (That recollection is a bit hazy and needs more research.)

Next door to the right was a dry goods store run by a fellow named Joe Prince. He was a Spanish-American War vet who regaled me and my friends with his adventures. His arms were covered with tattoos which he explained were drawn with a needle punched through a cork and then dipped into dye. To the right of Joe's was a barber shop. It was owned by Frank Carle. Frank loved the "real" country music of the 40's and 50's -- Hank Williams Sr. and Honky Tonk -- and he played it loudly! Before the Dandy Store there was Slovak's Gas Station. Of course the Odessa House was Vernie's Sweet Shop -- a soda joint where teenagers hung out.

Across the street was the bank...Horton's Funeral Home...Stebbins Merchandise Mart (now a hair salon) run by my Mom and Dad. Next door was the post office and The Market Basket (a grocery store). My family lived above the store, which at one time was some sort of leather or tanning company. Huge vats were on the third floor when my family bought the building. It had a balcony overlooking the street and I'll never forget when WW II ended my Mom tossed a firecracker off the balcony onto Mayor Charlie Harrington's blue Nash car, which caused an ugly purple blister on the vehicle when the firecracker exploded. We had one of the first TV sets in Odessa. It was displayed in the front window of the store and received one station...a black and white from Buffalo.

Continuing east, the commercial buildings ran out...but catty-corner from the Village Offices was a hardware store (Carley's). There we turned in furs from our winter traps. My trap-line buddy and I once received the huge sum of $25 for mink pelt. Big bucks for some youngsters!

Anyhow...I'll be in the area the last week in June. If possible I'd like to meet you. I thoroughly enjoy The Odessa File.

Marty Stebbins
Altamonte Springs, FL

Looking forward to opening pharmacy

To the Editor on June 14:

I wanted to send an email to update the Montour Falls community on our progress with the pharmacy.

We have been working very hard to get the pharmacy opened. We completed construction on it a couple of weeks ago and applied for our pharmacy license as soon as we received our Certificate of Occupancy from The Village of Montour Falls.

We are scheduled to have our pharmacy inspected by the State of NY next Tuesday, June 19. This is one of the final pieces before we can open. We are very excited to be opening in Montour Falls.

I want to thank everyone of the community for making us feel so welcome.

Thank you.

John Quinlan

I'm proud of the girls' hard work

To the Editor on June 14:

We had our final awards ceremony and picnic for American Heritage Girl Troop 412, Odessa on Friday, June 8 at Catharine Park. There are 14 girls in the troop and 10 were present at this ceremony.

I've attached 2 pictures. The first picture is of my assistant leaders who helped me this year. They are, from left: Gail Sgrecci, Kristen Albertsman, Elizabeth Delaney, Tiffany Moss, Cynthia Sullivan and Anisa Mertens.

The second picture is of the 10 girls who were at the ceremony. Back row from left: Ida Sidle, Malia Mertens, and Emma Malnoske. Middle row from left: Camille Sgrecci, Anna Sullivan, Mackenzie Cannon, Madison Moss, and Haley Albertsman. Front row from left: Rowan
Delaney and Julia Belleci.

From Christmas until now these 14 girls have earned 75 merit badges. Some of the merit badges were photography, young meteorologist, dawn of our country (where we learned about George Washington, the pilgrims, Betsy Ross and the Liberty Bell), Dance, Theater, Music Appreciaton and Music Performance.

They also earned 79 service stars. Each star represents one hour of volunteer community service.

We also had four girls (Ida Sidle, Emma Malnoske, Malia Mertens and Allison Heichel) earn their Sacagawea Patch for finishing all of the requirements in the Tenderheart rank and were moved up to the next rank, which is Explorer.

I am exceptionally proud of all the hard work these girls have done and I truly feel that I'm blessed to be able to spend time with such a wonderful, smart and well-mannered bunch of girls.

We are now done with regular meetings until next fall, but we will have a day camp from July 23rd through July 26th for any girl from 1st grade through 6th grade who wants to come. The information for this is below.

Sharon Sidle
Troop Coordinator

Cowgirl Day Camp!

When: Monday, July 23rd through Thursday, July 26th, from 8 a.m. to noon

Where: Catharine Park, 5182 Park Road off of Grant Road, Odessa

What: A Day Camp that is all about everything western! We will country line dance, tie-dye, tie knots, make stick horses, learn to use a compass and much more!

Who: Any Girl who is going into grades 1- 6 next fall

Why: Because it’s so much fun!

How: Contact Sharon Sidle, Camp Director at 594-4757 or Sharon@SidleInsurance.com to have her send you a registration packet.

Fee: Fee is $75.00 per Girl. Discounted to $50.00 if an adult works at the camp

Deadline: Paperwork and fee must be received by July 9th, 2012

Thanks to those who helped raise funds

To the Editor on June 11:

Dave Quarltere Jr. (of Dave's Auto World in Montour Falls) held a rummage sale that saw the proceeds go to the Spirit of Schuyler Scholarship Fund.

In the photo at right, Dave (on the right) is shown presenting the proceeds, over $500, to me today.

Thank you from the Spirit of Schuyler to everyone who donated items to sell and to Dave for initiating the sale to benefit our new Scholarship Fund.

Tony Vickio

Why there is a Democratic Primary

To the Editor on June 8:

This year, there has been much ado about the presidential primaries.

In any primary, several candidates belonging to the same political party vie for the honor of becoming the candidate to represent their party in the general election. In a primary, only registered voters in that party can vote. Folks go to the polls to decide which candidate has the best chance of winning against the other party’s candidate.

Last year, I served as a poll inspector during the Republican Primary and I was surprised at the number of people who came to vote, but were turned away because they were not registered in the party holding the primary. They didn’t realize that a Primary Election and a General Election are two different events.

On June 26th there will be a Democratic Primary for the U.S. Congressional seat for the 23rd District. Due to the realignment of the districts (NY State has lost two Congressional seats ) our area now comprises 14 counties, including the city of Ithaca. As a result, three Democratic candidates have stepped up to compete for that office. Registered Democrats in our area will have the chance to go to the polls and select their favorite. The names of the candidates are Leslie Danks Burke, Melissa Dobson and Nate Shinagawa. All bring enthusiasm, energy and experience to a stagnating political scene.

You can find out more information on the three candidates by going to the Schuyler County Democratic Committee website at http://schuylerdemocrats.com/

Those of you who can access YouTube can check out some recent video clips of the candidates at morinmom1. I encourage all registered Democrats to get out and vote for your favorite candidate in the June 26th primary. Don’t miss out on your opportunity to participate in this democratic process. Choose someone who will really represent us in Washington.

Marianne Morin

Exciting happenings in youth football

To the Editor on June 7:

Hello, I am Dale Irwin the Commissioner of the Schuyler County Small Fry Football Association (SCSFFA). On behalf of Board of Directors, I would like to take a moment and talk about the exciting things that are happening regarding our youth football program.

During the offseason our league became the newest member of the Southern Tier Youth Football Conference (STYFC). The STYFC is comprised of 17 teams for Broome, Tioga, and Chenango Counties in New York and Susquehanna County in Pennsylvania. Our league will play in the Western Division against Spencer-VanEtten, Owego, Tioga, Newark Valley and Apalachin. This means we will play 4 home games at either Watkins Glen or Odessa-Montour. We will also be required to travel to our other 4 remaining games at some of the locations listed above.

The league will be comprised of three travel tackle teams and flag teams. The travel teams will be divided up by age groups: A (11-12), B (9-10), C (7-8). Age is determined by the player’s age on November 1st. I encourage parents and players to visit the STYFC website at WWW. ETEAMZ.COM/STYFC/. We also have the opportunity to form two teams at each age group based upon sign-ups; these teams will be divided up by school districts. This is a very exciting prospect; our young players then will have the opportunity to start learning their specific school's football system at an early age. They also will feel the pride of playing for the Jr. Indians or the Jr. Senecas. Both Coach Lee and Coach Condon are excited about instilling their systems at the youth level and have pledged their help with making this a reality. As usual the flag league will be comprised of 5 and 6 year olds that will play at the Watkins Glen Field House.

Also in the offseason The SCSFFA became affiliated with USA Football. USA Football strengthens how the sport is coached and administered on youth, high school and international levels. USA Football has educated more than 75,000 youth football coaches across America through single-day coaching schools and comprehensive online coaching courses. These courses include CDC-approved concussion education and awareness material with an accompanying comprehension quiz. Approximately 400,000 youth football players have benefited from USA Football’s coaching programs, which instruct coaches how to teach the sport’s fundamentals and employ effective coach-to-player and coach-to-parent communication techniques. It will be required of all coaches to complete the appropriate training for their respective teams.

Registration will take place at the WG Elementary Cafeteria June 12, 13 and 20 and at the OM High School June 13 and 14, between 6:00 and 8:00 p.m. Players will need a copy of the following:

· Birth Certificate
· Insurance Card
· Registration Fees
· Athletic Physical – Completed before 1st Practice

Registration Fees for the upcoming season will be $45 for the first child, $35 for each additional sibling and $20 for flag football.

Practices will start the week of July 30th and our first game will be on August 26th.

It is our desire to make a better, safer football experience for our kids in this community-- an experience that will make them excited to play at the youth level and transfer to the high school level.

Dale Irwin

Help is available for finding quality care

To the Editor on May 29:

With the current state of the economy, many parents are wondering how they can maintain their finances and still pay for the cost of childcare. Every parent wants a safe, nurturing, and healthy environment for their children, but with the rising cost of everyday living this can become a difficult decision for a parent.

Schuyler County Child Care Coordinating Council and your local Department of Social Services can help with this very important need. SCCCCC can assist in finding quality care for your children. We maintain a list of registered, licensed, legally exempt, and informal childcare providers all available to you. Working hand-in-hand with the County subsidy program, we can also assist with paying those daycare fees for those who qualify.

Choosing a daycare provider is one of the most important decisions you can make, so don’t let your fear of cost prevent you from choosing a qualified provider. If you are in need of childcare or are interested in providing care, please contact us at (607) 535-7964, or on the web go to http://www.sccccc.org.

Schuyler County Child Care Coordinating Council

O-M boys track team is amazing

To the Editor on May 24:

I just wanted to comment on the O-M Boys Track team. They are an amazing bunch of athletes and people. They work very hard and I am so proud that they have been able to accomplish what they have this year. They broke many school records and became the first O-M track team to be Section champions. This is a huge day for them, as well as for Odessa-Montour schools in general.

I have been fortunate to have been able to get to know many of the kids on both the girls and boys track teams while photographing them for the Odessa-Montour Track 2012 Facebook page, and they truly are an all-around amazing bunch of kids.

I also wanted to thank both the coaches, Burton Brewster and Skip Strobel for not only teaching this group of athletes how to be great at the events they do, but also for supporting and encouraging them to be good to each other and the people around them. They are both definitely more than just coaches; they are mentors and role models. Thank you,

Christy Rumsey

Thanks to all those who voted

To the Editor on May 16:

I wish to thank all those who voted in the OMCS District election on May 15, and all those who encouraged and supported my candidacy for the School Board. I look forward to working with the rest of the Board, the administration and the community to move the District in a positive direction.

Robert L. Halpin

Seeking voices for Memorial Day chorus

To the Editor on May 15:

If you can sing, consider using your gift to honor our Veterans at the Memorial Day service at Veteran's Park on Route 228 near Odessa on Monday, May 28 at 11 a.m. I am organizing a choir to perform "An American Anthem" for the service.

Rehearsals will be Sunday, May 20 at 6 p.m., and Wednesday, May 23 at 6:30 p.m., both
at the Odessa Methodist Church. Dress rehearsal will be Saturday, May 26 at the park at 7 p.m. You need not attend all rehearsals, and music and rehearsal CD's will be provided.

We will warm up and practice all together on the day of the service at 10:30 a.m. at the Veteran's Memorial Park. For more information, please call 607-594-6565.

Mrs. Kim Laursen, music teacher
Odessa-Montour Central School

Entertainment set at Peterson Library

To the Editor on May 15:

At 3:15 p.m. on Friday, May 18, the Peterson Library on First Street in Odessa will be hosting a couple from Saratoga Springs, Cavanaugh & Kavanaugh, who will entertain with tales and music of the Yukon gold rush period. The duo will perform in period costumes, and utilize various musical instruments to entertain their audience.

The event is open to the public, and we have encouraged school kids to attend as well.

Bonnie Schweizer
Peterson Library

All are welcome at redistricting session

To the Editor on May 13:

I would like to invite all Schuyler County residents to the fourth Schuyler County Redistricting meeting, to be held on Monday, May 14 in the Legislative Chambers in Watkins Glen following the regular monthly meeting of the Schuyler County Legislature at 6:30 pm. This committee is developing plans for changing the election law and election districts for the next ten years in Schuyler County.

A handout which presents various proposals to be discussed at this meeting is available at "http://www.schuylercounty.us/Redistricting%20Schuyler%20County%20-%20Round%204%20(5-11-2012).pdf". The legislature seems to have settled on a solution using eight (8) geographically-based districts. The discussion now appears to be limited to the locations of these districts. Please read this handout and come to the meeting to give your input

I had hoped that the legislature would adopt a plan which would reduce the legislature by one member (to save costs and eliminate tie votes) and would retain larger districts more closely aligned with town boundaries. Such a plan was available in the 5 geographically-based and two "at large" district plan discussed earlier, and I applaud Chairman Fagan for seriously considering this proposal.

Mark Rondinaro

Some thoughts on the school budget

To the Editor on May 12:

Just a simple idea: If we are going to move foward with the use of laptops in the Watkins Glen School District, then let's take it to the next level and eliminate textbooks. This can happen within a year, and save the district approximately $70,000 ( this figure may be low).

Also, I see we have $100,000 budgeted for a school psychiatrist. I have checked the staff listing and I can't figure out who this is. If it's a mandated position, perhaps the salary can be shared with other schools in our county.

Another thing: Apparently there was no modified baseball coach this year, and therefore no modified team. I am just curious if the position was advertised publicly, as I know of at least two people who would have gladly volunteered (they had no idea the position was available until too late). It goes toward open communication from the Board to the public. Which I continue to find lacking,

I understand the Board is made up of elected volunteers. Perhaps if the Board was reimbursed properly, they would work harder to find solutions.

Let me just add that I don't think we need seven board members (it's not as if any of them have shown any disagreement with each other). I understand you want to agree as a team, but the public wants to know that we have individual thinkers on the Board. I am also against the use of executive privilege for the board to meet in private. I understand personnel issues must be private, but perhaps we need an ombudsman present at school board meetings.

Also, a suggestion for the Board: Please start informing the public now what the prognosis is for next year's budget.

This letter was written with great respect to everyone who is trying to make a difference in the WGCSD.

Mr. Joe Palumbo

We need experience on School Board

To the Editor on May 12:

With the tough times that we are facing, I feel it is more important than ever to think about "experience" when casting your vote for the Odessa-Montour school board candidates.

Karen Rock and Damita Chamberlain have both been strong, dedicated board members whose years of experience are invaluable right now. As a former board member, I can honestly say that it takes a good three years to learn the basics and really feel comfortable with the procedures and mandates. Both have had the years to familiarize themselves with the district -- its make-up, its members and its past and future.

Our district -- students, teachers, staff and taxpayers -- deserve to have the most experienced people sitting on the board and guiding the district through tough times that, unfortunately, will probably get tougher. Karen and Damita have a solid foundation moving forward that can help in making crucial decisions which affect all parties involved. Both are extremely knowledgeable about the issues and have always made concise, well thought decisions. They have deep roots here and vested interests in all that is at stake.

As a taxpayer, a parent and a district employee, I encourage you to think about "experience" and the important part it will play in this year’s election and the future of O-M. Vote for Karen Rock and Damita Chamberlain for the Odessa-Montour School Board.

Deb Dupuy

In praise of child care providers

To the Editor on May 9:

In an effort to recognize the hard work and dedication of child care providers across New York State, Governor Cuomo has proclaimed May 11, 2012 as “Provider Appreciation Day.”

We at the Schuyler County Child Care Coordinating Council are pleased with this acknowledgement of the Governor’s appreciation for the important role that child care providers play in supporting children and families, and join him in celebrating the contributions of child care providers in Schuyler County and throughout the state.

Debbie MacDonald
Executive Director
Schuyler County Child Care Coordinating Council

You can air your ideas on redistricting

To the Editor on May 1:

I would like to invite all Schuyler County residents to the third Schuyler County Redistricting meeting, to be held on Wednesday, May 2 at 6:30 p.m. in Room 120 of the Human Services Complex in Montour Falls. This committee is developing plans for changing the election law and election districts for the next 10 years in Schuyler County. Public input into this process is vital, and the committee has graciously agreed to hold these meetings in the evening to facilitate this input.

The committee has made available a copy of the Power Point presentation to be presented at this meeting. It is located on the legislature's web site at "http://www.schuylercounty.us/Redistricting%20Schuyler%20County%20-%20Round%203.pptx". For those residents without access to Microsoft Power Point, the presentation can be viewed online at "http://goo.gl/zATDr". Minutes and presentations from the previous two committee meetings are also available at http://www.schuylercounty.us/redistricting.

This meeting's presentation shows four plans under consideration; these are:
1) a seven-district plan with five geographically-based districts and two "at large" districts.
2&3) two different plans using seven geographically-based districts
4) a plan with eight geographically-based districts.

Each of these plans has advantages and disadvantages. Some plans have districts which include areas not local to each other (such as the Village of Watkins Glen and parts of the Town of Hector in a single district); other plans have districts which are not nearly equal in size. All of the plans split up some of our existing towns into multiple districts.

I urge all Schuyler County residents to attend this meeting and make your redistricting preferences known to the legislature. I anticipate that the legislature will choose a preferred plan soon, so this may be your last chance to have input into the selection process.

Mark Rondinaro

Meeting to feature Waiting for Superman

To the Editor on April 28:

The Odessa Tea Party group would like to invite everyone to our next regular meeting on Wednesday, May 2 at 7:00 pm. We meet in the Community Room of the Odessa Municipal Building at 300 East Main Street in Odessa, NY.

At this meeting, our group will be viewing the award-winning documentary "Waiting for Superman." This documentary, from the director of "An Inconvenient Truth," critically examines America's primary and secondary educational systems and diagnoses a system which protects incompetence, discourages innovation and fails to reward excellence. The director prescribes school choice and charter schools as the best means to foster innovation and prepare American children to compete in an increasingly globalized economy.

This documentary is particularly relevant at the present time. Our anemic local economic growth and the effects of the state property tax cap require us to be open to all possible means of accomplishing greater results with fewer resources. This is especially true in the area of education, where New York spends more per pupil than any other state in the USA (according to the latest available [2008-2009] U.S. Census Bureau data).

Please join us in watching this thought-provoking documentary.

Mark Rondinaro

A review of the 2012 GOP Primary race

To the Editor on April 27:

It is time to review, with fond memories, the clown car known as the 2012 Republican presidential primaries that has crashed and burned, leaving only one survivor: Mitt Romney.

Rick Perry was hopelessly befuddled in every debate. How could someone like this possibly have been elected governor three times? Well, it is Texas. Michele Bachman, out there as usual, claimed God wanted her to run, and how could Herman Cain somehow think we wouldn’t find out about the sexual harassment charges against him? Seems Obama offered hope while Cain offered “grope”! And who will ever forget his tax plan’s repeated battle cry of 9-9-9!

Newt Gingrich had too much baggage, including 84 ethics charges that torpedoed his job as Speaker of the House, and his “family values” mantra seemed disingenuous after his third marriage.

All I can say about Ron Paul is, how can someone this old be this cool? The last one to be ejected from the clown car was the famously homophobic Rick Santorum who, among other extreme viewpoints, claimed he wanted to vomit when President Kennedy spoke about the importance of separation between church and state.

All the candidates did have one thing in common: they toed the current Republican Party line that is determined to wipe out women’s access to birth control and reproductive rights, and to defund Planned Parenthood. For some reason Viagra is off the table. They seem consumed with repealing these hard-fought rights that women won four decades ago.

Note to all women – remember to ask your husband or boyfriend who to vote for. They realize you have a hard time understanding these complex issues, and Mitt will guide you safely back to the 1950s.

Ron Havens
Catharine

Food Pantry thanks Monterey camp

To the Editor on April 26:

Schuyler Outreach Food Pantry would like to extend a big Thank You to Monterey Shock Camp. The Pantry received a large donation of shelving. This shelving will enable Schuyler Outreach to accept more donations. These donations can be used not only during the year but in collecting gifts and food for the Christmas holiday.

Monterey Shock Camp brought down a work crew to move and build the shelving. This seemingly small task turned into four days of hard labor. Without their tireless effort and donation of time, the staff would not have been able to complete this task within a timely fashion. Thank you so much for your support in helping us attack hunger issues in our community.

Schuyler Outreach Food Pantry

Survey will help shape health priorities

To the Editor on April 24:

We need the help of Schuyler County residents!

The Schuyler County Public Health Department is conducting a survey to determine how best to meet residents' health-care needs over the next five years.

We are asking residents to tell us what they think about health-related needs in Schuyler County. When answering questions, remember to think about all age groups.

This is not a test and there are no wrong answers. These opinions are important to the health department. The results will help to shape health priorities in the county over the next few years.

Questions? Call the Public Health Department at 607-535-8140. Be assured your responses are important, and completely anonymous. Here is the survey link.

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/schuylercha2012

Thanks so much.

Jennifer Rodriguez, MS
Schuyler County Public Health

Funds available in breast cancer fight

To the Editor on April 24:

The Twin Tiers Region Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure® has awarded a $20,800 grant to the S2AY Rural Health Network, Inc. to help women with breast cancer who are not covered by health insurance, or who are low-income and need additional help with medical care, transportation or supplies.

The grant from Komen for the Cure will support these services for residents of Steuben and Schuyler Counties. We appreciate any effort you can make to assist us in announcing this award and the availability of funds in these two counties.

S2AY Rural Health Network
PO Box 97
Corning, NY 14830
(607) 962-8459

Sessions set in fight against Lyme

To the Editor on April 22:

I thought you might be interested in placing an ad or article for a couple of upcoming Lyme Disease Awareness events -- on April 27 and May 12. You can visit www.ahope4lyme.org for more details. I’m a board member for A Hope 4 Lyme Inc. and reside in Schuyler County. I was diagnosed with late stage Lyme in 2007.

Sharlene Parker

Editor's Note: Mrs. Parker proceeded to present details of the two sessions, and a more comprehensive account of her recent difficulties resulting from Lyme disease. To see the entire story, visit SchuyLines.

Thanks to Moose Lodge and volunteers

To the Editor on April 17:

A BIG Thank You goes out to Montour Moose Lodge #426 for hosting the Annual Fisherman’s Breakfast for Schuyler Outreach Food Pantry and also to the dedicated volunteers and supportive patrons.

The breakfast was a HUGE success! Because of their efforts we will be able to purchase 16,000 pounds of food for families all over Schuyler County. We would also like to extend a special Thank You to Hazlitt’s Winery, Barbara Cook, Jerlando’s Watkins Glen, Watkins Glen Walmart, Pampered and Polished, Tops and Bottoms. Thank you again for all your help and support. Hope to see you next year!!

Jessie Ketter
Schuyler Outreach
Catholic Charities of Schuyler County

Date, place set for OMCS gathering

To the Editor on April 9:

It is again time to have an opportunity to visit with each other. So, another picnic is being planned for any and all who attended and/or graduated from Odessa or Montour. The date is Saturday May 26, 2012 and the location is Catherine Park in Odessa. We will be roasting a pig, steamship beef, along with some hot dogs and hamburgers and ask anyone planning to attend to bring a dish to pass and water or a couple 2-liter bottles of soft drink. Tableware, such as plates, napkins, paper towels and plastic utensils will be provided, as well as the rolls. Alcohol is allowed at the park, and it will be BYOB! The picnic will begin around 11:00 AM and end around 5:00 PM, or later. The class of 1962 will be attending as a part of their 50th reunion weekend!

A donation of $10 per person or $25 per family is requested from those attending, which should be sent to: Kathy Cole Cleveland, 6086 St. Rt. 224, Cayuta, NY 14824.

We are sending out this notice now in an effort to give everyone plenty of time to plan, and are asking you to contact either Al Stone (class of 1962) at: astoneasrelee@suddenlink.net, Ms. Kathy Cole (class of 63) at: Katcc1@aol.com, or Ms. Peggy Brown Hambrick at: grandmabnk@gmail.com, as soon as possible to advise us of your intention to be there. Please include the years attended and which, or both, school(s), as well as your email address.

And the last thing we are asking is for you to send this notice to anyone you may know who attended or graduated from Odessa, or attended Montour Falls Elementary School. The date of their school attendance does not matter – we all share that common bond and it is hoped that this will be a wonderful opportunity to rekindle those friendships that began our lives. We are also hoping to have many teachers and former employees of Odessa there, so if you know of any, please let them know about the picnic and encourage them to attend.

Kathy Cole Cleveland, Al Stone,
and Peggy Brown Hambrick

Flagler SIFE team makes Round 2

Editor's Note: Watkins Glen High School alum Emily Marcellus is part of the Flagler College, Florida, SIFE (Students in Free Enterprise) team competing in a Walmart contest where the winning team's product will be sold by Walmart. She updates us here:

To the Editor on April 5:

Thank you so much for your support, and helping my team move on from the first round of Walmart's Get on the Shelf contest.

Ten products have moved on to Round 2 and our product, Datil Pepper Salt, is one of the finalists. The second round of voting is April 11-24 and we are really going to have to fight for the vote. As of right now I do not know if the methods to vote are going to be the same as the first round, but I wanted to send you word that we advanced, and I will gladly send you more information when I find out the voting methods for Round 2.

Here is a link to the press release. We are also producing a short video this weekend that we have to submit to Walmart Labs to use for publicity. I will send that to you as well in case it will be of any help.

http://www.flagler.edu/news/current_news/2012-04-05_getonshelftop10.html

Here is the link to the contest page: http://getontheshelf.com/

And here is the commercial we produced to submit to the contest initially.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fEEMnl6Gzx0

Again, Thank you for the support. My team is ecstatic to have the opportunity to be involved in such a great initiative, and we really want to win!

Emily Marcellus
Flagler College (Fla.) SIFE (Students in Free Enterprise)

A challenging time for Education

To the Editor on April 4:

I am writing this to express factual beliefs, not to begin a debate or dialogue with anyone.

Each Member of our Board of Education is a parent, brother, spouse, in-law, and friend of faculty and staff members and a parent or grandparent to students in our District. We are fully cognizant of those roles as well as our responsibility to all of our students, residents, and faculty/staff and administration. Our focus remains on our students and offering them the most opportunity possible given our financial circumstances.

We are volunteers who chose -- with voter support -- to be on the Board of Education and to do our utmost to make decisions for the very best interests of our students. I am proud of my colleagues on the Board and I thank them for the countless hours they volunteer and for all the sleepless nights put in on development of our budget amid some horrific economic times.

We began the 2012-2013 budget process back in November of 2011 but – in reality – that process goes back to the past several years. We’ve all known for quite a while now that our economy -- nationally and statewide -- was and remains in peril. During the past two years 17.5 positions were excessed from our work force in order to balance the budget and address the ever decreasing level of state aid. We all knew last year at this time, that this year would be another most difficult period in building the budget for the following year and now we have to factor in the mandated 2% tax cap. Given various formulas and some exemptions in that tax cap, we can legally come out with a 2.49% tax increase and that is what our budget does propose.

On Monday, April 2, 2012 the Board of Education voted to adopt the budget for 2012-2013 (this is our "spending plan" for the next school year), and sadly and unfortunately this plan does incorporate the loss of at least 13 additional faculty members. This loss is something we all struggled with.

Everyone is well aware that New York State -- like all of our States -- is suffering through severe economic crisis and challenges and must find different ways to do business and deliver services. One only has to read local newspapers to see what the other 20 Districts in our Greater Southern Tier BOCES are doing in order to close their budget gaps to see the seriousness of this problem. And this same scenario is being played out in every school district across New York State and throughout our country. We have addressed "creativity" with our planning for consolidation of our facilities, returning to a "single-busing" system and having Grade 5 in our Elementary School next year. And we will continue to look for as many creative solutions in the future as possible.

The Board of Education did not simply choose to excess positions via "hasty" decisions, but rather those decisions came after thorough thought and investigation, again with the focus on maintaining as much opportunity for our students as possible. While we have no control over state aid, mandated programs, and tax cap legislation, we do have some control over how our funds are spent and we believe the 2012-2013 budget reflects the best possible program and opportunity for our students. Unlike many districts in our region:
• We will still be able to offer Art, Music and Physical Education in all three buildings;
• We will still be able to offer a full complement of ACE and AP courses in the High School;
• We will still be able to offer Model UN, Modern Africa, Journalism, Business Education, Distance Learning, CAD and other Advanced Technology Education classes;
• We will still be able to offer a full complement of co-curricular and extra-curricular activities.
Reorganization and systemic change will continue opportunities for our students now and in the future.

We thank our Superintendent, other administrators and faculty/staff for being so fiscally prudent and unselfish in assisting with this budget preparation, and again I thank our Board Members for the time and talents each gives so unselfishly.

Brian J. O’Donnell
President – Watkins Glen Board of Education

An invitation to a meeting

To the Editor on April 3:

The Odessa Tea Party group would like to invite everyone to our regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, April 4 at 7:00 pm. We meet in the Community Room of the Odessa Municipal Building at 300 East Main Street in Odessa, NY.

This month, our group will be viewing and discussing several short films dealing with the topic of "United Nations Agenda 21." Agenda 21 is a UN initiative better known by the titles "smart growth" or "sustainable development." According to its authors, the objective of sustainable development is to integrate economic, social and environmental policies in order to achieve reduced consumption, social equity, and the preservation and restoration of biodiversity. Sustainablists insist that every societal decision be based on environmental impact, focusing on three components: global land use, global education, and global population control and reduction.

In the guise of laudable environmental protection, this initiative seeks to undermine our cherished personal liberties. It will subject American citizens to government controls on their freedom of action in both social and economic spheres.

Please join us for this informative presentation, and the open discussion to follow.

Mark Rondinaro, for the Odessa Tea Party Group

An urgent need for help from everyone

To the Editor on April 2:

We, the members of the Watkins Glen Faculty Association’s Executive Board, would like to bring to the attention of our community the urgent need for help from everyone concerned with the educational well-being of our youth. We would invite you to join together with us to develop strategies that will guarantee the future prosperity of our students.

This is why, in an ongoing effort to protect the educational opportunities of our students and despite the loss of 18 faculty and staff positions in the last three years and the projected loss of another 14 educators this year, the WGFA sought reasonable means and methods to continue to safeguard and provide for the educational needs of our students. For example, last year the WGFA saved the District approximately $300,000 by offering salary concessions and changing health insurance plans. These cost-saving measures were undertaken with one ultimate objective: to save program and with it the overall academic integrity of our District’s educational mission.

In keeping with this goal, the WGFA, working in concert with the District, was one of the first local Associations to come into compliance with the new NYSED teacher evaluation system, which is currently the model being used to assess teacher and administrator progress in grades 4-8, but will soon be mandated K-12. As a result, our District became eligible for a portion of the millions of federal dollars allocated to the “Race to the Top” funds, far ahead of many other districts in the region and the entire state.

The members of the WGFA Executive Board recognize that difficult and challenging choices will have to be made in the coming weeks and months, but we also recognize that we cannot solve these issues alone in isolation. By putting the needs of our students first, we, and everyone else who has a vested interest in seeing the Watkins Glen Central School District prosper and grow, must commit ourselves to pursuing and exhausting every possible idea, unusual remedy and potential solution.

Our students deserve and demand a collective agreement by all the respective parties involved that will guarantee every student access to the best possible education this community can and will continue to provide. Our students have already shown us the way – all the way to Albany – do we dare to do any less?

We invite all of you to join us in this conversation. Contact the Superintendent and your School Board members. Talk to them. Attend upcoming School Board meetings and other school events. Talk to educators and school employees. Talk with one another. Write letters to your political representatives and the local media. Let us, together, invite our representatives here, to our school, to continue the conversation our amazing young people began last month. It is only through communication that we gain understanding and grow solutions.

Together we can show our students how important their education – their future – is to us by modeling for them a collaborative approach to meeting challenge and overcoming adversity that will make them proud.

The WGFA Executive Board

An incredible, overwhelming experience

Watkins Glen High School senior Jenna Gimbar wrote the following letter as a school project, and decided to send it along as a prelude to the April 2 Watkins Glen School Board session -- at which the Board was expected to approve its 2012-13 budget. The budget plan will go to the voters in May.

To the Editor on April 2:

On March 14, 2012, the SOS (Save Our Schools) group (founded by and consisting of WGHS students) made its way to Albany to lobby for our education! Little did we know that with just 27 kids, we would be leaving our footprints, tears, and opinions with Assemblyman Friend and Senator Tom O’Mara.

To see the complete letter, click here.

How about a countywide school district?

To the Editor on April 1:

With the discussion about consolidation, improving efficiency and saving money, I am proposing combining Schuyler County’s three small school districts into one. It would be the Schuyler County School District.

It is New York State law that each school district must have its own superintendent. Why don’t we ask our legislators to combine our three small school districts into one?

Currently, Bradford School District has a student population of 318 students in K-12, with a superintendent salary of $119,315 per year. Odessa-Montour School District has a student population of 828 students in K-12, with a superintendent salary of $114,126 per year. Watkins Glen School District has a total student population of 1203 students in K-12, with a superintendent salary of $124,800 per year. That is a total of $358,241 per year, with a total student population of 2349.

However you look at it, if this were one school district, it would still be considered very small. There is absolutely no reason to have three separate superintendents. The way I see it, we are paying $358,241 per year for three superintendents to do the job of one superintendent.

For comparison, the Rochester City School District has a total student population of 32,000 students in K-12, with many, many schools. There is one superintendent with an annual salary of $175,000. Would someone like to justify the existence of our three tiny school districts with three separate superintendents? We can still maintain our three separate campuses and neighborhood schools and instead of firing teachers to save money at the detriment to our students, we can eliminate our excess administration.

I believe it is excessive and redundant for the taxpayers of Schuyler County to be paying the salaries of three superintendents when one could easily handle the job. It is time to consolidate our three districts into one.

Kirk J Peters, DVM

Seeking singers for Sunrise Service

To the Editor on March 26:

It's almost Easter! I have been asked to have a choir sing at our countywide service at the State Park at Sunrise, April 8 (at 6:30 a.m.), and I am seeking volunteers. We will have only two practices, and I will provide a CD of the selections for independent rehearsal.

Practices will be Palm Sunday afternoon, April 1, at 3 p.m. at the Montour Falls United Methodist Church on Owego Street in Montour Falls, and then Saturday afternoon, April 7 at 3 p.m. at the park pavilion at the pool entrance.

I believe this is the 78th annual service, and it is so wonderful to keep this tradition going. Thank you for your help! My contact information: cell: 607-857-5252, home: 607-594-6565, email: mamacagwell@aol.com.

Mrs. Kim Laursen, music teacher
Odessa-Montour Central School

An amazing, exhilarating experience

(Note: The following letter is from Megan Daigle, one of the 27 Watkins Glen High School students who journeyed to Albany on Wednesday, March 14 to participate in Education Lobby Day.)

To the Editor on March 15:

Our community made it possible for our S.O.S. group (Save our staff, save our students, save our schools) to go to Albany to lobby on March 14. Thanks to the donated time of our bus driver combined with the pledges of local businesses and families, 27 of our students and 4 of our teachers were on their way for a trip that went from simply a dream to a reality.

You may not be aware, but here in Watkins Glen we are experiencing 15 position cuts; 10 of these are in the high school alone. By cutting these teachers it puts restraints on our programs, lessening our opportunities at WGHS.

Our trip began early in the morning; we arrived in Albany and listened to inspirational people from all over New York State, who are in a similar boat as us. People became hyped up after chanting, “Education is a right, fight, fight, fight!” along with other chants. The assembly really brought everyone together.

Ten of our students went to meet with Assemblyman Friend. They said he was astonished by the sincerity and the seriousness of our young minds.

After the meeting with Mr. Friend we met with Mr. O’Mara -- yes, our New York State Senator. Tears were shed in his office as students truly spoke from their hearts. The students described how our school district will have 15 teachers cut and how with these cuts programs are “trimmed.”.We made it clear that these “trims” affect all of us and all the people who will move up to high school. Our opportunity is being “trimmed.”

From Mr. O’Mara’s office we made our way to the million dollar staircase in the Capitol Building. There people were chanting and expressing their thoughts on how these budget cuts are affecting their areas, as well. Brenton Whiting from our very own Watkins Glen High School got up in front of everyone to lead a chant. It was truly an experience I will never forget.

We then took off for home. On the way back some of our students were contacting local news stations and before we knew it we were on the grass in front of our bus yelling our chants to a news crew at WENY.

We did eventually return back home. These memories will forever be in our hearts. We are truly grateful for this amazing and exhilarating experience.

Megan Daigle
Watkins Glen High School
S.O.S.

We may be looking at this all wrong

To the Editor on March 14:

For those who do not know me I am a lifetime resident of Schuyler County and graduate of Watkins Glen High School (85). I have two students in the WG district and another soon to join. My wife teaches Math in the high school and I teach high school sciences in Corning. I was attending a school function last night when I was asked by my friend Pat “what is the problem between the WG and OM schools? I didn’t grow up here, and I don’t understand the problem between the two schools.” I was confused by the question. He directed me to this forum and after reading the letters my first thought became the title of this letter.

Why would the state decrease the amount of aid to schools and at the same time enact a 2% tax cap on districts? It has created this financial funnel our superintendents and school boards are facing. The given reason is to reduce wasteful spending. Our schools are fiscally transparent and this reasoning is therefore unsound. The school budget is available for people to read and vote on. The New York State government made it clear a few years ago that a reduction in the number of school districts in the state from over 700 to 350 or less was the goal. By creating larger regional districts there would be cost savings in administration and oversight as well as consolidation of services. A strong leader would have constructed an efficient solution and put it in place even if it was unpopular. Our Governor has put small upstate school districts in a jar with no air holes in the lid and walked away. This will leave the education of our children to suffer for years to come. Mergers and consolidations will follow out of morbid necessity, as districts succumb to the financial suffocation. A strong and thoughtful leader would have the courage to step up and state the agenda and offer constructive solutions. Our Governor chose instead to set this stage and place blame on the districts. This problem does not exist downstate and on Long Island, and those districts will be fine and largely untouched throughout this process. Districts with fewer than 1,000 students are the specified targets. The numbers Mr. Phillips shared with us show that the WG district is headed there. This is a matter of demographics and not anyone’s fault.

I do not agree with New York State that larger districts are better for kids. In fact educational research shows the opposite is true. It was one of the reasons I returned here after going out into the world. However I don’t see a way to change the state’s philosophy on this issue. State government has been loud and clear in its support for this agenda. To our government the schools have become about budgets first and children last. Mr. O’Kane’s points on education are very well taken. We do not put a high enough priority on the education of our children and it will eventually put our democracy at risk. We are not wasting money when we invest in educating children.

I think we are underestimating the students, parents, teachers, administrators, and school board members of all Schuyler County schools if anyone thinks they don’t have the best interest of the students in mind. As a board member and coach involved with Schuyler County Little League Baseball for nearly a decade, I have worked with kids from all over the county. I find that among the players, they pay no attention to where you go to school whether in Bradford, OM, or WG. They play baseball together and become friends, and I always put the kid with the better arm on third base because he or she can make the throw to first. The Gators swim program creates a similar environment for all local children. Communication is different now. These children text and form friendships at the speed of light, and from my personal experience my children have friends all over the county.

The rivalry between WG and OM was strong in my day. No matter the sport, you knew you were going to get their best, and if you weren’t willing to give your best then you weren’t going to win. As an athlete, coach, and now an adult, this sounds like mutual respect. If I had my way both schools would be strong, independent, fiscally sound centers of their respective communities. I don’t believe this is possible in this climate and I hope we can work together to show the Governor what real leadership is about. There is nothing on this planet I will care about in 50 years more than my children. Again my friend asked, “Is the problem between OM and WG more the parents' problem than the kids?” I think it is.

Len DeBolt

Heading toward a vacuum of insolvency

To the Editor on March 12:

In concerns for school taxes and such ...

Along with the dwindling population of students is an already surmountable levy issued by our county against the individuals who own property, and try to make a living. The federal government under Obama has bailed out many corporations, and Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae already have a shortfall this year. Should the Obama administration bail out these programs again?

We are breeding dependency on the government with a huge Social Welfare system that encourages people to be second- and third-generation welfare seekers, who have not and never will hold a job -- because they don't have to.

Along with an ever-increasing debt load from bailouts, and a stalled economy, and no fiscal responsibility by the federal government, I wonder how we can assume that the local government, or the public school system, would understand how to do a budget and keep within their means.

No, the cry is Raise Taxes! And America, as great as it once was, is about to be sucked into a vacuum of financial insolvency -- much like Greece and all of Europe. The American taxpayers are broke, the federal and local governments are broke. Why does everybody pander over a system that has been broken for many years? We all want to depend on the government -- and look where that has us! Sixteen trillion in debt, with absolutely no hope of any way to solve that problem. That is not to mention the majority of Americans have single and double mortgages on their homes, car payments, and a whole slew of credit card bills, along with all the other bills in life -- and the 21st Century is not like your granddaddy's stories of the Great Depression. Americans in general are not self sufficient as they once were, and the majority don't have enough savings to carry them through six months of a "depressive/recessive" economy -- let alone a decade.

America, as well as the world, is insolvent!

And what better news could anyone want --- than this truth?

Ken Switzer
A Schuyler County and Town of Reading taxpayer and voter (at least while we are still somewhat free in America)

Spring Ahead, Fall Behind!

To the Editor on March 10:

(Ah! To the Wonders of Daylight Savings Time!)

Glorious Spring has come to this fair land,
Though the weather isn’t exactly as we’d planned.
And now it’s time, for some strange reason,
To change the clocks to match the season.

“Spring ahead and Fall behind!”
That phrase keeps dancing through my mind.
It seems like forever I’ve heard it said,
And, now, it swirls wildly in my head!

It seems that something needs to be fixed,
So that I can get myself “unmixed,”
‘Cause, in springin’ ahead, you’re really behind…
Oh, golly! ~ I think I’m losing my mind!

When I spring ahead, I lose an hour…
Instead of church, I’m in the shower!
That hour is lost until magnificent Fall,
When I feel like I’m ahead of the rooster’s call.

I know there’s a perfectly logical reason…
Something about enjoying the light of the season…
But, when I lose that hour of sleep,
That very hour is the one I’d like to keep!

--By Bonnie Seeley

Combining teams would pose some issues

To the Editor on March 9:

I would like to respond to the letters written to you by Christy Rumsey. I, too, believe there would be several issues to consider if sports teams from Odessa and Watkins ever combine. I believe she is right when she states that the kids at O-M have always been looked down upon by the kids at Watkins Glen, and not just when it comes to sports. It’s an everyday thing, really, that students at O-M have become used to. So to believe that there would be any kind of equality on a team comprised of both schools is hard for students and parents alike to comprehend.

Would there be a coach from each district to ensure that ALL athletes would be treated fairly? I also agree that it would sound much more enticing to our athletes if Watkins was joining with our school..After all, they seem to be in a worse financial state than O-M, so why should our students be expected to go to their teams? If it truly is an idea of their superintendent to talk to ours, he should be asking just that....Can our athletes join yours? And I guarantee that if it was approached in this manner, NO parent or athlete in Watkins would think that to be the answer, just as Christy and I don’t.

I do not believe that our student-athletes should be the ones to have to give up their teams. And I am sure Watkins parents feel the same about their student-athletes. I hope all of this is discussed before any combining takes place. And if it does come down to joining being the ONLY option, I hope a new color and mascot will be adopted as they did in Corning and Elmira.....that way neither school can say “its OUR team and you are just on it.” It would truly be a NEW team that both schools would be an equal part of.

Pamela Kelly

Thanks to all the Ice Bar donors

To the Editor on March 8:

We would like to thank the following local businesses and the community for their generous contributions and tremendous support at the recent community-driven Ice Bar event at the hotel. The donations received, along with the community’s support, were instrumental in making this event a HUGE success -- leading to a $5,000 donation to the Red Cross. We look forward to seeing you in 2013!

Contributing businesses:

Lyon’s National Bank
Glenora Wine Cellars
Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards
Jameson Irish Whiskey
Lyon’s National Bank
Niagara Region Porsche Club of America
Skyy Vodka
Adon Allen III
Atwater Estate Vineyards
Bull Dog Sound
Café Tanino
Damiani Wine Cellars
Dr. Konstantin Frank Vinifera
Wine Cellars
Eremita Winery
Executive Chef Orlando (Glenora)
Executive Chef Brud (Red Newt)
Finger Lakes Distilling
Finger Lakes Entertainment
Fulkerson Winery
Hermann J. Weimer Vineyard
JR Dill Winery
Leadership Schuyler
Monahan Party Rental
Maine Foods
Pepsi Cola
Pro Audio Consulting
Red Newt Winery
Sheldrake Point Vineyards
Standing Stone Vineyards
Sysco Foods
Tom Mike Photography
Wagner Vineyards
Wink 106
Lakewood Vineyards
Lamoreaux Landing Wine Cellars

--The Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel
and the American Red Cross

Netbooks: It's better late than never

To the Editor on March 8:

I am happy to accept Kirk Peters’ invitation to engage in discussion about the netbook computers in the Watkins Glen school system. My only complaint is that the project should have been implemented six years ago when first proposed by then Superintendent Dr. Mary Ellen Correa. I was a vocal public supporter of the idea at the time, and my feelings haven’t changed. It is regrettable that six graduating classes of our students have been denied this opportunity.

What most people over the age of about 25 fail to appreciate is how differently students today communicate, think and learn compared to just a few years ago. Colleagues of mine at Cornell report that the days of students passively taking notes in the classroom are long gone. Learning today happens through constant communication and collaboration, much of it online. Note that “online” doesn’t mean replacing talented, dedicated classroom teachers such as we are fortunate to have in Watkins Glen. Nor are computers merely a modern version of the card catalog or slide rule, booted up when necessary. They are an integral part of the learning environment, and of the increasingly global economy.

This last point deserves further treatment. For better or worse, the competition for the best jobs is now international in scope. Young people who don’t acquire the tools of the modern economy will likely be left behind.

Our family’s experience with the netbook computer this year has been positive, although clearly the project has yet to realize its full potential. This is perhaps understandable with new technology. But I commend the district in getting started. Better late than never.

Charles Fausold
Watkins Glen

Thanks to Coach Sterner

To the Editor on March 6:

We were privileged to watch Coach Kelly Sterner lead the Watkins Glen Boys Modified Swim Team this season and we wanted to extend our gratitude for her infectious enthusiasm, her skill and her dedication. Thank you Coach Sterner.

Dan Fitzsimmons and Dorothy Elizabeth

Your votes can help us reach worthy goal

To the Editor on March 6:

I have been attending Flagler College in St. Augustine, Florida for the last two years, and have become heavily involved in an organization called Students In Free Enterprise (SIFE). Flagler SIFE seeks to create economic opportunity for those in need in our community. Need can be defined by many different factors.

We have identified Veteran's Farm in Jacksonville, FL. Veteran’s Farm is run by veterans for veterans. Their mission is to help disabled combat veterans get back into society through the use of horticulture therapy. Veterans work on the farm and develop skills to help them overcome their physical, mental, and employment problems -- and ultimately to start their own farms or work for large ones.

Walmart is having a “Get on the Shelf” contest, similar to American Idol. Veteran’s Farm has the opportunity to get its products on Walmart shelves all over the country by winning the contest. The more products they sell, the more veterans they help. Flagler College students have made it their mission to help them win. We’re not asking you to buy any products or donate money. We are asking you to vote. The veterans need your vote to get their products on the shelf.

I have attached a flyer. If there is any way your readers could help us toward achieving our goal, I would really appreciate it.

Voting begins Wednesday, March 7th. Click on the link below and vote once a day, every day if you can, until April 3rd: http://www.getontheshelf.com/product/4970/Veterans-Farm-Datil-Pepp

Emily Marcellus
WGHS graduate and
Flagler SIFE President

I wish more parents would speak up

To the Editor on March 5:

I have debated over the past few days on whether it would be at all helpful to respond to the previous letter. I try very hard not to engage in arguments that really go nowhere, that accomplish no real goal, but I feel like I need to clarify a few points.

My daughter has been involved with the Glen Gators for several years and I understand that the kids between districts can work together. She knows girls from Watkins and beyond and talks to them at events. So I do believe that the majority of kids in these schools are good, helpful kids. I will say though that to imply it is me that is negative or unwilling to compromise is utterly false. My daughter is a creative, talented, High Honor Roll student who is capable of independent thought. Every point I made came from listening to my child and her concerns about her school and teams. These students' concerns, about combining and being forced to commute to a school that does not truly welcome them, are valid.

I can tell you I was never involved in sports, never really understood the point, until they transformed my child’s life. She was a shy quiet child until she became part of a team. Being involved in swimming and track have boosted her confidence in a way that no amount of classroom time could have. So people can try to convince themselves that sports, or even music and art, are not as important as English and Math; well, I disagree. They do not teach you how to be a leader, or use your creativity to inspire others, or feel the responsibility of a team depending on you, in the traditional classroom. To be honest my children would feel stifled if they did not have art or music to look forward to after a long day of staring at a blackboard while a teacher talks about conjugates and exponents. I am not saying those things are not important, of course they are, but they are not everything. I am a college-level educator, I know we need core skills to succeed, but they are one part of a very big puzzle. It is important our children be well rounded. To say reading and writing are the skills they need through life is leaving some serious skills out of the equation, like how to work with others and think independently.

They say as a species we did not truly become human until we were able to think creatively and critically, through art, math, music, philosophy, etc… not by how many kids passed the state test. I know government has made it difficult for our schools. I may not work at the school, but I do understand that difficult decisions need to be made. According to this very publication, out of the 23 positions mentioned, 5 teaching positions will be lost at O-M. Not to say this is not terrible, it is, but many industries across the nation are having to take a look at the bottom line and determine what is truly necessary versus preferable. I guess, right or wrong, I feel like Watkins is in trouble in part due to excess, like state-of-the-art pool facilities, a field house and indoor track, Netbooks for all the students, etc…The excess I have read about on this very forum is alarming. I can tell you that Odessa, as far as I can tell, lives within its means. Do you think we would not like a new pool? Or take-home technology for our students. Of course we would, but instead our students stay after and go to the library or computer lab. We make do with the resources we have available. I also agree that as a community we should band together and try to make it better for everyone, but most of the suggestions I have seen so far are at the expense of Odessa students. Any time I see this issue brought up it mentions Odessa students going to Watkins. Maybe I would be more amenable if Watkins suggested sending their students up to Odessa. I will always be an advocate for my children and what I believe is in their best interest. I wish more parents would speak up, people whose children will actually be affected by all this; not just teachers afraid of losing their jobs, and politicians.

I hope Jim Frame thinks about all of this as he determines the fate of our students and our athletes. He should be the voice for what our students want, not just what the board wants.

Christy Rumsey

We have been given a teachable moment

To the Editor on March 3:

I would like to respond to the letter concerning the possibility of joining athletic teams. I am a Watkins Glen graduate and am now a Watkins Glen teacher. When I was in school, I always played sports. I remember how much fun it was and I also remember the rivalry between us and Odessa. The games between the two schools, no matter what event, were always the most exciting.

When summer came, and my season was over, I played on a travel soccer team. The team was the Schuyler Scorpions, made up of girls from Watkins, Odessa, and even a few from Trumansburg. Even though we played against each other during our regular season, it was great to come together for the summer. We were able to combine our talents, learn from each other, and became a much stronger team. We also became great friends. As the Fall rolled around and we found ourselves on opposing teams, we still greeted each other with hugs and high-fives.

My point is, we have been given a teachable moment. We have an opportunity to show our children that we are able to work together, we are able to compromise, and we are able to share. While reading the letter in the Forum, I thought of the movie “Remember the Titans.” Granted, the movie was based on racism and not rivalry districts, but the lesson is the same. The athletes in the movie, once they got to know each other, became great friends and had a fantastic team. It was mostly the parents and adults in their community that fought the change and had nothing but negative attitudes. This is our chance to show our children that we are able to come together for the good of all.

Maybe I am more aware of budget issues and financial difficulties of the schools because I work there. New York State has taken away millions of dollars from education. Our districts are faced with very difficult decisions as they try to keep current programs intact for our students. Between our two districts, there will be 23 fewer teachers next year. Those are the people who teach your children how to read and write, the skills that they need throughout life. A school's purpose is to educate your children; clubs and sports are extra-curricular.

Frankly, we are lucky to have sports teams at all during these tough economic times. So, instead of fighting the possible changes to come, maybe we should be grateful for what we have.

Jessica Purpura
Watkins Glen teacher, parent, and taxpayer

Don't combine girls swim teams

To the Editor on March 2:

My daughter has been involved in sports at Odessa for several years now and I believe it would be a serious travesty if sports were to be combined. I suppose sports like boys swimming that will soon disappear completely may be an exception, but girls swimming, I hope never!

I disagree with the editor that we should combine our girls swim team. You say not the big sports; you mean like football. The girls swim team is more successful than the football team. Yes, our team is small, but it is certainly mighty. If our teams had been combined when Maia first started swimming, she may not have even made the team. But she has continued to flourish. I do not believe she would have had that opportunity at Watkins or on a combined team. I believe Odessa teams are competitive, maybe not as much with Watkins, a school twice our size, but with schools in our own class. We competed strongly as a swim team this past year and I believe next year will only be better. Our sophomores, next year’s juniors, are very strong. I believe by the time they are seniors they will be a force to be reckoned with.

I can tell you right now, if they combine girls swim teams, my daughter will not be swimming, nor will several others, I believe. It would be a blow to their hard work and school pride to have to swim or play any other sport with a school that has for years worked hard to make them believe they are inferior -- unsuccessfully, I might add. I think we have tons of talented athletes at Odessa and that comes from being in a small-town, pride-filled, school-spirit atmosphere.

Who would be advocating for our students' rights there? Who will assure our children will get the opportunity to compete? Will there have to be a certain number of Odessa kids on a squad to ensure we are being represented? Will Watkins have an attitude over whose team it is and the fact that they have to take on Odessa athletes? There are many questions and concerns that should be considered. I say look into sharing some of the academic services that neither school can support alone, but leave our sports alone.

Christy Rumsey, RN, BSN
Concerned parent of an Odessa athlete

Public input on redistricting is vital

To the Editor on March 1:

I would like to invite all Schuyler County residents to the second Schuyler County Redistricting meeting, to be held Thursday, March 1 in room 120 of the Human Services Complex in Montour Falls. This committee is developing plans for changing the election law and election districts for the next ten years in Schuyler County. Public input into this process is vital, and the committee has graciously agreed to hold these meetings in the evening to facilitate this input.

During my recent run for the Legislature, I heard many residents express their frustration with our current local election law and its convoluted functioning. I also heard residents expressing support for at-large elections where at least a portion of legislators, if not all, would be elected by all the voters of the county. Finally, residents had questions about the number of legislators we needed in the county, and suggested reducing this number to an odd number of legislators, to save costs and eliminate tied votes. All these questions are legitimate topics for the redistricting process now under way. I urge all concerned citizens to attend this meeting, observe the ideas presented, and give their legislators feedback.

Mark Rondinaro

Everyone invited to Tea Party meeting

To the Editor on Feb. 29:

The Odessa Tea Party group would like to invite everyone to our regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, March 7 at 7:00 pm. We meet in the Community Room of the Odessa Municipal Building at 300 East Main Street in Odessa, NY.

This month, our group will be viewing the documentary "Agenda, Grinding America Down." This documentary reveals the historical and ongoing efforts by "progressive" leaders in our government, education and media to subvert traditional American culture and undermine our constitutionally guaranteed freedoms.

The Corning Tea Party has previously viewed this documentary and recommends it highly. For more information and a preview of its contents, see "http://www.agendadocumentary.com"

Please join us in viewing this documentary and discussing the important information it contains.

Mark Rondinaro, for the Odessa TEA Party Group

People make the learning happen

To the Editor on Feb. 26:

What will your school look like next year?

Will it have reasonably sized classes in which your child receives the attention he or she needs? Will it have enough teachers to effectively maintain programming? Will your student’s transcript have everything on it that their number one college pick wants to see, ensuring their acceptance? We should all be wondering what the answer to these questions might be.

When choosing a home to purchase, it is often the school district that will influence the decision. That was the case for my husband and me when we moved back to this area. I had taught here, we had friends here, and we knew the capabilities of the teaching staff. Yes, I said the teaching staff. It was not state-of-the-art buildings or cutting-edge technology, it was the people in the buildings, in the classroom.

Although not everything in the WG school system has been a perfect fit for our children, they have received a good education. Now I find myself in the horrible position of working for a system which is changing so drastically, that I am glad my youngest has only one more year before he graduates. I have difficulty imagining how I will be able to continue to teach the way I know it should be done in a language classroom. I have difficulty imagining how any of us will be able to do more than tread water in the coming months and the next academic year, if not longer.

Because, you see, it truly is the people here, the teachers and the students and the parents who make the learning happen in this place. And now, 15% MORE of our teachers will be joining the tens of thousands of teachers across the state who won’t have jobs. And our children will have that many less people supporting their learning.

Yes, the budget gap is a sizeable one. I do understand that. I also understand that the teaching staff is the biggest piece in the budget pie. There is a reason for that. The purpose of a school is to promote learning. We, the teachers, help the learning happen. In our home, we would evaluate what we needed and what we didn’t. We would not begin a renovation without having the funds, or without the need. A homeowner who says "well, we might have to host twenty or so extra guests someday so let’s build a new wing" will soon find their budget in disarray. And yet, here we are, in this district, creating a state-of-the-art building, maintaining a netbook program and a full athletic program, and cutting our teaching staff. Have we forgotten the equation? Students+parents+teachers = learning. Buildings, netbooks and athletics do not appear on a transcript. How can any of us in this community even begin to entertain the notion that a fancy building plan or an enticing offer of technology would come close to being more important than the people in the district?

Katherine Meierjurgen
Educator, Parent, Taxpayer

Field House TV was a donation

To the Editor on Feb. 24:

Having heard a complaint being addressed for the second time in the Forum about the Field House television, I offer the following explanation:

When my son and his classmates graduated in 2009 after having participated on championship-winning teams for both basketball and soccer during their senior year, I approached Mr. Scott Welliver and asked him if he would be interested in donating a flat-screen television commemorating their athletic successes. Mr. Welliver most kindly and graciously contributed to our school district the television that is now housed in the Field House lobby.

Thank you, Mr. Welliver, for supporting our school and its students. Remember, it takes a village to raise a child.

Elaine E. Elsik-Malina
Proud parent and local taxpayer

Netbooks should probably go

To the Editor on Feb. 24:

As a technology specialist working for a large school district in suburban St. Louis, MO as well as an being alum of WGCS (along with having a family member employed in the district), I’d like to throw my two cents in on this netbook "controversy." I’m sure the kids love having their own devices, but how is it benefiting their education? Obviously the curriculum has changed drastically since I attended 15 years ago, but grades 5-12 ALL getting this hardware? There are over 20 schools in my district and none of our students are issued their own equipment, nor does their education suffer in the slightest.

I would be interested to see some figures of how many households in the WGCS district have computers. I would also like to know, if deprived this device, how this prevents them from accomplishing work in/outside of school? However, I do understand some classes may require a laptop to perform work outside of the classroom. As Mr. Durfee points out, there are tons of IT resources available to the students on top of having their own devices. Makes no sense to me. Is there specialized district-licensed software on those netbooks that is only available within the school? Are these Verizon-made netbooks or does Verizon simply provide Internet access? If the latter is the case, is it the idea that they can take the laptops anywhere and have a connection via Verizon’s 3G/4G network? What is wrong with simply using the netbook’s built-in WiFi and connecting to an available wireless access point (in the school or via free access in places like McDonald's, libraries, etc)? I would want to know what the cost of the netbooks would be to the taxpayer if Verizon were taken out of the loop.

How is maintenance handled with netbooks? I ask this because I’ve dealt with my fair share of them -- believe me, eventually netbooks become nothing but a problem waiting to happen. In my "professional" opinion, they are a dying technology. I’ve seen many users (teachers, students, executives, etc) buying them and a year later they’ve ditched them for something else. For those concerned about our children falling behind the tech curve, the future is tablet computing; and not just iPads either (for you anti-Apple folks). I understand that a device like this is pricier, but the argument of netbooks being critical for technological learning is not a sound one.

Although I respectfully disagree with these devices being "invaluable," Mr. Willis brings up a great (albeit sad) example. This is the case when a device like a laptop, netbook, tablet, etc. is needed for a student being out of the classroom for an extended period of time. And that leads me to a suggestion. Why can’t the district just buy a handful of devices and have them available to sign out for extenuating circumstances?

Is the district really comfortable essentially replacing (at least one) living, breathing educator with an outdated piece of plastic?

Michael Augustine
Class of ‘97
St. Louis, MO

Doubts persist on school-use of netbooks

To the Editor on Feb. 23:

I am writing this letter to generate a discussion among the residents of Schuyler County on what I believe is an all-out assault on our public schools and teachers.

Most residents are not aware of a contract the WGCS district entered into with Verizon, Inc.. It was not mentioned in the school budget presented to us for our approval last year. The parameters of the arrangement were given to me by our schools' financial officer, and they are as follows: Netbooks (laptop computers) were given "free" to all students, grade 5 through 12, by Verizon. The WGCS will be charged $ 40 per student per month for 10 months a year. With 875 (approximately) students, the bill comes to $330,000 paid to Verizon, Inc. over 10 months. A grant for the first year was garnered by Senator Gillibrand for $170,000, BOCES pays 69% of the balance of $160,000, which covers another $110,000, leaving WGCS a net expenditure of $49,000 per year. However you look at it, it is still $330,000 per year of taxpayer money going to Verizon, not our school.

You may feel this seems like a good deal, but what about next year? The grant money is not guaranteed beyond this year. How would you feel about paying Verizon $40 / month per student for 10 months year after year? Is this good for our students? Does it benefit their education?

Which brings me to my two main concerns. 1.) Companies wanting to profit from public education and 2.) The effectiveness of online learning.

Many large corporations are chomping at the bit to get at the cash cow of public education money. All they see are dollar signs. They want the states' public education money and are finding creative and seemingly beneficial ways to get at it. The more money that goes to Verizon or other companies, the less money that goes to our schools and students. To enlighten yourself about this national problem and see what corporations are scheming, please read the following articles: Jeb Bush's Cyber Attack on Public Schools by Stephanie Mencimer in the Nov./Dec. 2011 issue of Mother Jones magazine and Profits and Questions at Online Charter Schools (Online Schools Score better on Wall Street than in Classroom) in the New York Times, Dec. 12, 2011.

As to the effectiveness of online education, research has shown "that there is no sound research showing that online courses at the K-12 level are comparable to face-to-face learning." I challenge Superintendent Tom Phillips and the school board to present to the taxpayers of Schuyler County sound research to support the benefits of online learning. Why did the WGCS district decide to go this route? I don't enjoy being too cynical, but I believe it was to get rid of teachers and save money. Please read an article from the New York Times, April 5, 2011 by Trip Cabriel, titled More Pupils are Learning Online, Fueling Debate on Quality. A sample quote from Karen Aronowitz, president of the teachers union in Miami, Fla.: "It's cheap education, not because it benefits the students."

Is this how you want our children educated? Do you want your tax dollars to go to for-profit corporations as they attempt to take over our public education system as we fire dedicated, hard working teachers?

I look forward to hearing from my fellow citizens of Schuyler County. Thank you.

Kirk J. Peters, DVM

Please spread message about my music

To the Editor on Feb. 22:

I recently became aware of your site. I am a hometown girl who has been striving for musical feats in Nashville, Tennessee. Among those feats are writing and producing my first full-length record that has made it onto Pandora internet radio. My record "Saltwater" is also available on iTunes, cdbaby, and veralynnbush.com. Now that it is available, I'm doing my best to make people aware that it exists. I also have a couple of music videos on Youtube.

I have recently been asked to play at the South By Southwest music festival in Austin, Texas on March 18th. Being asked to play at the Freddy Powers Pavillion for the closing ceremonies of the festival is a very prestigious honor. In order to make it happen, I began a fund-raising campaign on indiegogo.com. I would be very thankful if you could help me spread the message to my hometown. Every dollar I can raise really counts right now.

Please go to this link for details. http://igg.me/p/65654?a=399323

Thank you for your support and God Bless.

Vera Lynn Bush

I feel netbooks are an invaluable tool

To the Editor on Feb. 22:

Regarding a previous comment that netbooks are "a luxury":

I feel the netbooks are an invaluable tool. In December, my daughter and I flew to Texas to see her grandpa, whom she hasn't seen in 11 years. He had bladder cancer which had spread, so we went to say our goodbyes. She took her netbook with her to keep in contact with her teachers during our trip, as she knew that there was the possibility of having homework while she was gone. She was able to keep updated by teachers and other students on assignments, tests to study for, etc. This so-called "luxury" afforded my daughter the chance to take school with her, while catching up with family members she hadn't seen since she was 4, and some she had never met.

If there's anything this school does not need, it's that big TV in the field house.

We live in a technological age, and our children need to have any advantage they can get if they are to compete with others of their age and education. The netbooks afford them the chance to do that, along with technology rooms.

Roger Willis
Watkins Glen

I offer my support to Board, Phillips

To the Editor on Feb. 19:

As a parent and a third-generation alumna of the Watkins Glen Central School District, I would like to address some of the controversy surrounding the financial situation of the district at this time. For all of the community members out there pointing fingers, please consider some of the following.

Rumors are running rapid in the WG Middle School, and likely both other schools as well. Things are so far out of proportion that on Thursday Mrs. Somerville and Mr. Lattin felt it necessary to address the Middle School student body because some of the students were so confused and distressed. People who wish to have accurate information should attend Board meeting(s). Our Board members and Superintendent Phillips are very approachable. If you do not understand something, ask a question. If you have a suggestion or alternate solution, make it.

Do I follow the financial situation as well as I should with the WGCS District? No, I do not. However, I read every minute of each Board meeting posted by our local media. When it is time to elect Board members and vote on budgets, I pay attention to be sure I make the best decision I can for our children and our community as a whole. Most importantly, I vote!

In addressing some of the negativity against Superintendent Phillips and our Board members, I offer my support and thanks to all of them. Our district is going through the financial problems that every school district in New York State is experiencing. This is a New York State and a Federal Budgeting problem. The cuts that WGCS is dealing with are the same in all of our neighboring communities. A group of our high school students understand this. They are being proactive in that they addressed the Schuyler County legislators. Their group is attempting to influence state, federal and local government officials to curb or roll back funding cuts to educational institutions. People who are not taking the time to clarify information they hear before sharing it with their children or other community members are not part of the solution. We are blessed to have the Board members and superintendent that we do. Mr. Phillips and Mr. O'Donnell both started their careers as teachers. Mr. O'Donnell has spent hundreds of hours archiving the history of the WGCS District. Mr. Phillips' daughter is a student. His wife and in-laws are WGCS alumni, as are the majority of our Board members and their families. This is a thankless job.

How do I know? For the majority of my years as a student, my father, Charles Cole, was the President of the WGCS District Board. His father, Frank Cole, also held this position for many years before him. In fact, the night my grandfather died, my father was interrupted during a Tuesday night Board meeting because Grandpa was sick. Many a night, our dinners were interrupted by phone calls from parents, staff and community members with complaints about school issues. Mr. Phillips and all of our Board members are visible at the majority of our school functions. Most of the Board and Mr. Phillips serve as volunteers in many other organizations within our community. They give time they could be spending with their families to benefit mine, and yours.

In closing, I would like to reiterate: If you aren't part of the solution, you may be part of the problem. If you have alternate ideas, share them. If you can do better, run for a seat on the Board; exercise your right to vote. Above all else, for the sake of our children, please take time to clarify and verify the accuracy of information you are sharing with them. Please be age appropriate. Our kids have enough on their plates.

Lisa Cole Hanley
Class of 1982

A message from the Superintendent

To the Editor on Feb. 17:

Dear Students, Parents and Residents of the Watkins Glen Central School District:

You may have heard reports in the local media this week about the difficult financial choices the Board of Education and district administrators are wrestling with. I wanted to take this opportunity to address these reports and make certain that you have access to three key pieces of information that are driving our budget proposals for the 2012-13 school year.

First, our district has lost a total of $927,258 in operating aid from New York State since 2009.

Second, this year, we are developing our budget without the benefit of $1.2 million in Federal Jobs money that has buoyed us during the previous three years. With these funds, we were able to limit staff reductions.

These two factors create this scenario: If our operation costs were to remain the same, we would be left with a total revenue deficit of $1,971,129 for the 2012-13 school year. Staying near the newly-enacted two percent tax cap, we can only generate an additional $209,000 in local tax dollars next year.

The third factor that is driving our decision-making is a significant drop in enrollment. Since 1980, our enrollment has dropped from 1,693 to 1,203, a reduction of nearly 500 students. Beginning in 2013, no grade in the district will exceed 100 students.

Watkins Glen Central School District Student Enrollment (1980 to present):

1980: 1,693
1990: 1,463
2000: 1,447
2010: 1,215
2012: 1,203

In short, we have less money to work with, but we also have fewer students. For the past several years, we have looked for every cost-saving measure we can employ, including consolidating our facilities to one campus and reducing to a single bus run. Few options remain that will allow us to maintain programs for students. We have lost 17 staff positions in the last two years. One option on the table at this point is another 15-position reduction of our staff at a cost savings of $1,055,497.

I’ll be the first to tell you that this is a painful option for everyone involved. However, because our enrollment has dropped significantly, this measure will still allow us to preserve programs, although they may be offered differently. Obviously, our preference would be to maintain and even enhance our current programming for students. The reality is, we simply cannot afford to do that.

The budget development process is ongoing. The next meeting of the Board of Education will be held at 6:30 p.m. March 5 at the High School. Please, attend, listen to the discussion and offer your feedback. We appreciate your continued support of our work.

Tom Phillips
Superintendent

I'm looking for daffodil sale sites

To the Editor on Feb. 16:

An annual event -- the American Cancer Society (ACS) Daffodil Days -- is being held the week of Monday, March 19, through Friday, March 23. I am trying to find interested businesses in the various municipalities -- the Villages of Burdett, Montour Falls, Odessa, and Watkins Glen -- where we can set up tables manned by volunteers to conduct Site Sales of daffodils on Thursday & Friday, March 22 & 23, during each business’s regular hours.

Three businesses, so far -- Tompkins Trust Company and the Senka Agency, both in Odessa, and the Famous Brands Outlet in Watkins Glen -- have committed to having a Site Sale at their business. I would like to have every community in Schuyler County represented in this endeavor. I will have been successful if I can enlist the assistance of at least one business in every municipality of the County.

I do have a list of businesses (from several years ago), but many of those establishments have a) changed hands, b) different names, or c) gone completely out of business. If you are a business and have not been contacted by me, PLEASE CONTACT ME.

Perhaps our neighbor, Hammondsport, did just tie Beaufort, North Carolina, in Budget Travel Magazine’s “Coolest Small Town in America,” but I think we Schuylerites can work together to make our County “America’s Coolest Daffodil-selling Small County!” Let's do it!

Bonnie M. Seeley

Yes, the netbooks are a luxury expense

To the Editor on Feb. 15:

If there is no secret board of education bar and grill...

...where does the board go for executive session?

In all seriousness, I applaud Michael Myers' contribution to The Forum as a voice from the School Board. The more that we discuss these issues, the better informed the taxpayers and voters will be about the budget and the very difficult decisions before us.

Yes, Mr. Myers, the netbooks were one of the district's luxury expenses I referred to in my last letter.

According to information from the business office, the netbooks will cost the district approximately $270,000 upfront for the 2012-13 budget cycle. That is revenue we spend next year and expect reimbursement on in the future; these future revenues include an anticipated—though not promised—$171,000 federal grant as well as BOCES Aid to the tune of 64.1% on the remaining balance. These accounting techniques get us to the $35,000 figure cited as the actual local cost of the netbooks. But the story can be better told. The fact is that we spend $270,000 next year and the reimbursements do not arrive until the 2013-14 budget cycle. And at that time the funds are seen as revenue for future spending. There seems to be an error in this logic.

Consider the analogy of the rebate. I want a new laptop and the store offers me a $100 printer, which is “free” after rebate. I spend the extra $100, process the papers and eventually the rebate check arrives. Now I could view the rebate check as future “revenue,” or I could see it as reimbursement for past spending. This is not a matter of perception, but a matter of choices. I believe there is a better way going forward.

The high school alone hosts 7 computer labs (rooms 717, 731, 732, the networking lab, the AV lab, a music studio computer lab, as well as the design and drawing lab). In addition there are 4 laptop carts throughout the building (one each in the science dept., special education dept., freshman academy, and the library). All of these in-house technological offerings have been used by teachers of all content areas to ensure that we are meeting the 21st century learning needs of our students. The idea that each student needs a netbook in addition to the district’s current technological offerings is, to my eyes, a luxury expense, especially in light of these harsh budget constraints.

Clearly we advocate spending on people and program, the key variables proven time and again to have the most significant effect on student achievement. This district employs good people who develop and deliver tremendous programs to the children of this community each and every day. These people may not qualify as aid-reimbursable in the byzantine bureaucratese of public school finance. This is surely no measure of their value.

The district should invest in people, not products. The return on our investment will pay dividends intangible. The glimmer in a child's eye at the discovery of new knowledge. A student’s beaming smile when she succeeds at a challenging lesson. A young man embracing the day and the projects that wait at school. This is the interest that accrues when you invest in people.

Technology expenditures are one area where the district can help close the gap and preserve our schools' offerings, the quality programs that the good people of this school district offer to keep our community’s children engaged. Let’s preserve the programs that keep our students motivated to Save Our Schools.

Travis Durfee
Watkins Glen Faculty Association

We need to live within our means

To the Editor on Feb. 15:

The school district should get out of debt. What does it cost the district every year to pay for the loan on the previous building project? Now we are getting into another wasteful project. We (the local taxpayer) must pay back a certain percentage not covered by state aid for each project. The last project must be paid off, or is close to being paid off, so now it is time for more debt. If we were not constantly paying on these projects, we probably would not be worrying about laying off teachers, and cutting programs.

The taxpayers have been very generous to this school district; we have great facilities; we need to take care of what we have, and live within our means. Stop adding/building on, and start putting our energy into making education our #1 priority.

Sam Schimizzi
Class of 1977
Former school board member

Here's one idea: Stop paying coaches

To the Editor on Feb. 14:

Michael Myers asked for money-saving ideas.

For starters, stop paying coaches. If you wouldn’t coach a high school sport for free, you shouldn’t be coaching anyway.

It won’t solve all the problems, but it’s a start, just like cutting the netbooks, which Mr. Myers said would save less than half a teacher’s salary. Cutting the netbooks and coaches' pay will save one job.

The toughest step is always the first.

Jesse Scott
Omaha, NE
WGHS Class of 1997

Time to start reevaluating our priorities

To the Editor on Feb. 14:

A good education is like a vaccine against a future fraught with limited opportunities and limited returns. It’s an investment that with time and proper maintenance can provide the buyer with a secure and bounteous financial reward. Like with any investment there are risks, but more often than not the potential benefits clearly outweigh any conceivable pitfalls.

Access to a sound education is one of the most fundamental and basic rights of any citizen in a free and democratic society. This right was not always guaranteed, nor was it considered to be the most sacred and integral part of the overall shaping and molding of our nation’s youth. Prior to child labor laws that were enacted at the turn of the last century, it was not uncommon to see children being forced to work in dangerous and hazardous factories, coal-mines, and other industries where their educational needs were permanently overtaken by the greed of the robber barons who ruled during the age of industrialization.

Thankfully those days are behind us, at least as far as access to a solid education is concerned. However, there are some who focus solely on the numbers, and with the near collapse of the economy at the end of the last administration it is easy to understand why. It is certainly reasonable to look at what we as a free and democratic society are willing to spend on investing in the future leaders and job creators of this great nation.

According to the United Nations Children's Fund, the U.S. federal government spends only 3% of its total budget on education, ranking the U.S. 134th out of 155 countries in that category. Taiwan and Finland, the countries that score highest in the PISA assessments for math, science and reading, each spend at least 10% of their federal budgets on education. This reminds me of that old saying, “You get what you pay for.” Or perhaps more appropriately, you don’t get what you don’t pay for.

It is a matter of priorities, and where and how a nation determines to invest its money is a reflection of that nation’s priorities. It is no secret that as the most powerful and perhaps influential country in the world, we spend more on the military than every other industrialized nation in the world combined. Certainly that investment has made us a formidable enemy or ally depending on the country or countries you are looking at, but it certainly hasn’t made us any smarter or more competitive in the educational arms race.

Another national priority to consider is the amount of money we spend on incarcerating our citizens as compared to the amount we spend on educating our children. Our children’s education is our country’s most vital and important concern, a common refrain heard on the lips of every politician on the campaign trail. However, the actual numbers tell a very different and dismal story. In our great state of NY where the current governor enjoys a very healthy approval rating, the state government spends about $56,000 per inmate and approximately $16,000 for every student in the school system. If these are our priorities then it’s time we start to reevaluate them, and quickly.

As the great American patriot and founder, Thomas Jefferson once said, “I think by far the most important bill in our whole code is that for the diffusion of knowledge among the people. No other sure foundation can be devised, for the preservation of freedom and happiness…” Now is the time to act, the time for making your voice heard. Demand that our politicians, school boards, and school districts invest in liberty, freedom, and American greatness. The time is now.

So what are you waiting for?

Liam F. O’Kane
Watkins Glen Faculty Association
High School Building Representative

Let us know your money-saving ideas

To the Editor on Feb. 14:

I applaud Travis Durfee’s letter of February 12th. It points out the drastic impact of the latest state aid cuts and seeks to increase community awareness of the budget process, both excellent goals.

However, I would like to get the details behind the "luxury expenses." Are we speaking of the sports program? Netbooks? The Secret Board of Education Bar and Grill? Sports costs several hundred thousand dollars per year (many teachers worth of $$$), the netbooks about $35,000 (less than half a teacher), and the B&G is unfortunately just a figment of my imagination.

Seriously, though, if people have ideas for where to save money, don’t wait for a Board meeting to pass it along – call a Board member, talk to your principals, don’t wait! As in previous budget years, we are trying to come up with ways to make the list of teachers to cut shorter. One example can be found on this website (read the missive on the Sponsors page). All ideas are welcome and worth consideration.

Michael D Myers
Vice-President
Watkins Glen Central School District Board of Education

This is no surprise; it started years ago

To the Editor on Feb. 13:

I too disagree with the School Board's and Superintendent's stance regarding this current fiscal crisis -- that "We are not doing this; it is being done to us."

It does little good to blame the state. Please stop reinforcing that concept; it is defeatist.

How can Superintendent Phillips state "I don't think anyone could have forecast this loss of revenue"?

Yes, the state has made their job difficult by decreasing revenues and capping property taxes, but this is no surprise. It started years ago.

And as a homeowner, I applaud the property tax cap.

It is incumbent on the School Board to find alternate sources of revenue, and to fight/work with the state to insure adequate funding for our schools.

I find their efforts lacking in this area.

Perhaps if Board President O'Donnell had put business first, the people side wouldn't be suffering right now.

I do think the Board is composed of a lot of "nice" people, a few of them very hard working. But nice isn't good enough -- we need strong leaders with vision, leaders who are insightful and pro-active. With such qualities we may have prevented this current predicament.

Perhaps if the Superintendent's, School Board's and financial planners' livelihoods were at stake, we would have different outcomes at this point.

I share the blame, as I have seen these difficulties on the horizon and haven't spoken out.

While I understand that just as it does little good for the Board to blame the State, it also does little good for me to "blame" the Board.

But I do think it is important to look at how we got in this mess in order to move forward. I implore this community to get involved, share your views, find solutions and follow the strong leadership shown by the school staff, teacher Marie Fitzsimmons and the school students (who have started an SOS -- Save Our Schools -- movement).

Joe Palumbo
Class of '79

Protect the promise of children's future

To the Editor on Feb. 12:

The halls of WGCS reverberated with shock as news of the district’s 15 cuts swept the hallways. From the newest of our teachers to our 20-plus-year veterans, the decimation of the teaching staff was felt in every discipline. From history, to music, to language, to business, to physical education, to guidance, to reading, to elementary classrooms, to health, to business, to science, to special education, to library and media arts, the harsh knife of budgets cuts slashed across the promise of our children’s futures.

The students of WGHS instantly galvanized with a professional and passionate force that reflects their deep love of our community. Within a day, they created a group called SOS, Save Our Schools, and sent pleas to our governor to distribute NYS educational dollars fairly. They set up a Facebook page, a Twitter account, and a letter-writing campaign. They created flyers and wrote a beautiful song dedicated to their teachers. They have insisted upon a campaign that is free of blame and is solution-based. They have created a model of social activism that I want to embrace.

I believe in a strategy that includes our entire community. I believe it is imperative to contact Assemblyman Friend, Congressman O’Mara, State Education Chair Flanagan, and Governor Cuomo. Please tell them that we do not accept the inequitable distribution of state education dollars. I believe it is necessary for the Governor to relinquish the notion that it is okay to hold $250 million hostage to competition. I believe it is time we sent a clear message that all of our children have a right to those dollars. I believe it is necessary to question the state’s allocation of over $20 million to close the Middle School while denying students the very education their future depends upon. I believe that it is necessary to do away with the funding formulas that place smokescreens on real costs to taxpayers. It is time we stopped delineating between local cost, BOCES costs, state cost, and federal cost. Every dime on every level is taxpayer money. I believe it is necessary for every person in the district to write those letters today. State budget decisions are literally at the door.

I believe it is necessary for us to harness our local power and to set up a forum that rallies around our students. I believe it is necessary to examine our expenditure choices and be sure we are utilizing every dollar in the manner most beneficial to our students. And I believe we need to consider local resources and to be ready to support our students should the state fail in its duty to our kids.

Most of all, I believe in our students and thank our community for raising such fine young men and women. The honor of teaching your children is one of the greatest joys of my life.

Marie Fitzsimmons

On the brink of educational bankruptcy

To the Editor on Feb. 12:

The Watkins Glen Central School District (WGCSD) is on the brink of educational bankruptcy. The schools have suffered tremendous losses since 2010 and this year's budget proposals make the bad even worse.

This year's cuts reduce the district's educational offerings 15-fold. That means 15 fewer educators serving the children of this community. These reductions follow on the heels of 17 education professionals cut in the two prior years. Balancing the school budget on the backs of those who teach our children is no way to sustain the district's powerful role in our community.

This year's cuts mean fewer opportunities for kids to learn and succeed. If the cuts hold, the district would employ no reading teachers. Students considering higher education would have fewer options for college courses in high school, which for years has enabled families to save thousands in college tuition. Academic intervention services and programs for students with special needs would be weakened. Kids would lose valuable studies in arts, music and foreign language. Media studies and production courses would be diminished. As with other course offerings that were lost in the last three years, the elective classes that engage our most reluctant learners would be heavily reduced. The students of this district would no doubt suffer under the current proposals.

If the superintendent's proposals are adopted by the board of education, the voters will be asked to approve a budget that significantly shortchanges the district's children, the future leaders and job-creators of our society. Please contact your school board members and the superintendent. Attend the school board's Finance Committee meeting in the High School Library on Feb. 22 at 5:30 pm. Attend the next full meeting of the board of education on Monday, March 5 at 6:30 pm. Ask the board and the superintendent to save our schools and restore the cuts. Trim luxury expenses and save the district from the brink of educational bankruptcy.

This year's proposals are not trimming around the edges. These proposals cut to the bone. And bare bones is not good enough for the children of our community.

Travis Durfee
Parent, teacher, voter, taxpayer,
Watkins Glen Faculty Association
High School building representative

New site aids mandate-relief effort

To the Editor on Feb. 8:

The New York State Association of Counties has developed a tool that could help counties encourage our State Legislators to enact meaningful mandate relief so that tax dollars can stay in our community for local programs and services.

Please click on www.mandaterelief.com and from there email your State Senator and Assemblyman asking them to enact mandate relief this year. It is a very simple process.

Share this message with friends and family members as we are all affected by these mandates.

Thank you for your help.

The Schuyler County Legislature

Why place the blame on Albany?

To the Editor on Feb. 8:

Why do elected school officials place blame on Albany when the real problem is with the School Board and the Superintendent's Office -- and has been since 1984.

Since 1984 the Watkins Glen School District's enrollment has dropped nearly 500 students.
Since 1984 we have had over $38 million in construction of huge projects -- a Field House and an addition which appears to be inadequate at this point since we need another $24 million for yet another addition to dissolve the Middle School. I have some concerns with respect to fiscal leadership.

Keep in mind our budget has climbed from $4.5 million in 1984 to nearly $25 million in 2011. That is a rather big difference.

Governor Cuomo is making the changes to state aid to create restraint -- and in turn to keep property taxes under control. Kudos to him for cutting back and slowing the increases to our taxes.

How about a drive to help Afghan kids?

The following was written by Carl Bruce, an Odessa-Montour High School graduate currently assigned in Afghanistan as the Detachment Chief for the Joint Document Exploitation Center-Afghanistan, a component of the Department of Defense. The unit performs translation functions on captured documents for use in intelligence gathering against the Taliban and Al Qaeda.

To the Editor on Feb. 7:

Today was a day that I wish every American could experience. It summed up for me the reason that we are here: To help the Afghan people. One of the guys that I work with has been receiving large boxes of blankets, shoes and clothing for the last few weeks. His wife in Alabama, and his parents in Tennessee, have been collecting items through their church and high school to send here. When we went out to the local villages, it was amazing to see the abject poverty that they live in. Many children had no shoes and only thin, worn-out blankets to shield them from the wind. To see the joy not only in the children, but in the parents' faces as we put real clothing and a decent pair of shoes on them (for some of them, this was their first pair of shoes ever), was for me worth the effort to be here in Afghanistan. Seeing the little ones, all I could think of was my daughter, Naomi. We brought along two women with us so that they could pass out the women's and girls' clothing, otherwise the Afghan men would not have allowed us men near the women.

I saw one little boy, about 6 years old, who was very shy and being shunned by the other children. He had no shoes and just threadbare clothing on. As soon as I saw how the other children were treating him, I grabbed him and dressed him in a new pair of jeans (and an extra pair of jeans to take home), a sweatshirt, and sneakers. The smile that he gave us was from ear to ear. I had our interpreter tell the boy that these clothes were his, and that he was not to let anyone take them from him. (I was afraid that because of how shy he was, and the way that I had seen the other children treat him, that they might try to bully him and take them from him.)

The sad part was how many we were not able to give clothing to because we ran out of some items.

I don't know if it is possible, but could you see if maybe some civic group in Schuyler County would be interested in doing a clothing drive for the children here in Herat? This could be a great project for a church, or the Boy Scout or Girl Scout troops in your area. Please be assured, any help that can be given would do a world of good for some very poor children.

I would appreciate it if you would consider posting the contents of this e-mail on The Odessa File so people will see that we are doing good things here in Afghanistan

Carl Bruce

Photos in text: The team distributes clothing to Afghan children (top); Carl Bruce next to one of his group's trucks, called a "Jingle Truck."

Let's send a message to Albany

To the Editor on Feb. 3:

Could we get the following article put on The Odessa File under schools? Our schools are in desperate need and there is a site to click on at the end of the article for people to sign a petition. This would not be limited to just Watkins schools.

If you have any questions, please let me know. Thanks.

Kathy Estes
WG PTO

Our public schools need your support now.

Make your voice heard. Sign the petition (see link below) and send a message to Albany.

Last year, our public schools experienced a $1.3 billion cut in state support and the imposition of a 2% property tax cap.

This resulted in the loss of valuable programs and services for kids and the loss of more than 11,000 educators and staff through layoffs and attrition. Over the past three years, more than 30,000 teaching and staff positions have been eliminated.

This year, the Executive Budget proposes the restoration of $805 million in support to public schools. Unfortunately, $250 million is carved out in the form of a competitive grant program enacted as part of last year's state budget.

While the $805 million restoration proposed in the Executive Budget will help our schools build upon their progress, the decision to dedicate $250 million to a competitive program that will only benefit a few select districts is inappropriate and unfair.

We, the undersigned -- educators, administrators, staff, parents, students and concerned citizens -- are asking our lawmakers in Albany to move the $250 million increase from the competitive grant program into general operating aid, increasing support to all public schools. The addition of $250 million in general operating aid will allow all school districts greater flexibility as they work to restore critical programs and/or services for students within the confines of the 2% property tax cap law.

In this environment, it is simply unfair to award scarce resources to a handful of school districts when an overwhelming number of school districts have significant resource needs.

Every dollar in the classroom counts! Let's strongly urge our lawmakers to reconsider this approach.

The link follows:

http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/1846/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=9252

A visit from a Presidential candidate

To the Editor on Feb. 2:

Greetings from sunny Florida! Been awhile since I have sent you any news from our family. Well, instead of softball, which the past two articles about my daughter were for, this one is different and maybe you would be interested in posting on The Odessa File.

Our daughter Ashley recently started working at McDonald's. Low and behold, this past Saturday, 28 January, as she was working the register, Republican Presidential candidate Mitt Romney stopped in on his way to Pensacola. He came directly to Ashley's register. Ashley stated how friendly and polite Mr Romney was, taking the time to say hi and shake hands with other folks in the restaurant.

I just thought it might be interesting to share the photo of her taking his order. It's not too often that you get an opportunity to meet a Presidential candidate. Let me know your thoughts, or if you need more information. There is not too much to share, because all he did was order his food, say hello to all who were present, and go on to Pensacola. But it's great that he stopped by our local McDonald's in Navarre Florida! And great for my daughter to have the privilege to meet him.

Take care,

Steve VanAmburg
MSgt, USAF
Hurlburt Field, Florida

Photo in text: Mitt Romney at Ashley VanAmburg's register.

Editor's Note: Ashley, who has relatives in the Southern Tier, made a name for herself by excelling as a softball pitcher in Europe, where her father was stationed. Her exploits were chronicled twice in The Odessa File.

S-G article shows firm's modus operandi

To the Editor on Feb. 2:

When Inergy manager Barry Moon recently told the Watkins-Montour Rotary Club that the company was “responding to concerns” about the planned LPG storage project at the U.S. Salt property by looking for an alternate site for the massive brine pond, he may not have mentioned that when the NYS DEC asked them to do this, Inergy basically thumbed their collective noses and stated they wouldn’t move it. It wasn’t until the Army Corps of Engineers got involved and forced the issue, due to the presence of federally regulated wetlands and streams tributary to Seneca Lake where the brine pond was to be located, that alternate sites were explored.

He also says the company has contracted for a Quantitative Risk Analysis (QRA) for the same reason. What he may not have mentioned is that when his boss, Bill Moler, was asked to perform a QRA, his reply was that one wasn’t necessary and that they were supplying an EPA required Risk Management Plan (RMP) after the permit was approved. It was the DEC, this time, that forced the issue.

Perhaps Inergy’s intentions can best be understood by reading the recent article in the Elmira Star Gazette outlining how the company is attempting to seize use of private property for their MARC I pipeline project using eminent domain:

http://www.stargazette.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2012201310342

They served nearly half the 152 landowners with condemnation papers only two days after FERC gave them approval to start construction. A look at FERC filings since 2005 shows that this is the modus operandi in every project this company has been involved with in NYS! Look for them to use the same tactics here if we allow them to build this facility.

Do we really want a company like this as our neighbor?

Joseph M Campbell, DC
President and Co-Founder
Gas Free Seneca
www.gasfreeseneca.com

Pancake fundraiser was a success

To the Editor on Jan. 30:

Hidden Valley 4-H Camp and Cornell Cooperative Extension Schuyler County would like to sincerely thank everyone who helped make our Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser on Sunday, January 29 a success!

Thank you to the Montour Falls Moose Club; Bill and Laura from Airedale Farm, who donated a gallon of their pure maple syrup; Camp Cook Lisa Shrout and her family; Cate Sirek; Danielle Hautaniemi; Mel Schroeder; Sue Larson and Kendra and Katherine; Robin Willson and Shannon Ennis; Jessie Sarratori; Shelly Cowles; and to everyone who came out to enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast!

We’d also like to thank the sponsors of the “backpage ad” in the Watkins Review & Express: Learn Motor Co, Inc, Haughey-Wood Funeral Home, Vedder & Scott Inc, Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Inc, Cargill, Inc, H.L. Stephens Ltd, Cotton-Hanlon, Inc. and the Review & Express.

Thanks to all, we raised over $500 to provide camperships for youths to come to Hidden Valley 4-H Camp!

Hidden Valley 4-H Camp, located in Watkins Glen, has been serving the youth of Schuyler County since 1945. A goal of Hidden Valley 4-H Camp is to continue helping Schuyler County youths who are not able to afford attending camp. We have set up a campership fund for these individuals and are grateful to be able to add what was earned at the Pancake Breakfast to this fund.

For more information on Hidden Valley 4-H Camp, call 607-535-7161 or visit our website at http://hiddenvalley4hcamp.org/.

Robin Ennis Willson
Administrative Assistant/Camp Registrar
Hidden Valley 4-H Camp

Law change expands firearm prohibition

To the Editor on Jan. 30:

Effective today there is a change in the New York State Penal Section 265.01, subdivision 4, which prohibits a person convicted of a felony or serious offense from possessing a rifle or shotgun. The change to the law now includes antique firearms, black powder rifles, black powder shotguns, or any muzzle-loading firearms.

Possession of any of these types of weapons by any person currently prohibited from possessing a rifle or shotgun may result in arrest on the misdemeanor charge of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree.

Sheriff William E. Yessman Jr.

Everyone's invited to Tea Party session

To the Editor on Jan. 30:

The Odessa Tea Party group would like to invite everyone to our regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, February 1st at 7:00 pm. We meet in the Community Room of the Odessa Municipal Building at 300 East Main Street in Odessa, NY.

Our speaker this month will be Brad Lytle, the founder and president of the Twin Tiers Tea Party. Brad is a dynamic speaker who is technologically savvy and well known for his engaging Powerpoint presentations.

Brad will be speaking on the organizational lessons he learned during the startup phase of the rapidly growing 80-member Twin Tiers Tea Party. He will also discuss his interpretation of the "Tea Party Patriots' Constitutional-Thinking and Analysis Priciples." This should be a very enlightening presentation, and should provoke lively discussion. We invite everyone in the area to join us on Wednesday evening.

Mark Rondinaro
For the Odessa Tea Party Group

RSVP is a very important program

To the Editor on Jan. 27:

Schuyler County RSVP volunteers are wonderful folks. I have personally experienced the company of these people, and I must say this program is so needed by many people in Schuyler County. Having benefited by this organization myself in a time of need really shed light on the importance of such dedicated people who care. Mr. Evans and the volunteers deserve a personal Thank You from us all. Help fund this program by donating, and help this organization whenever possible. It's very important. Thanks RSVP.

Alan Hurley

RSVP thanks its supporters

To the Editor on Jan. 26:

The Schuyler-Yates Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is deeply grateful to the following businesses, agencies and individuals for their recent support. We would not exist without you, particularly during these difficult economic times.

$250+
Dennis & Liz Fagan (in memory of Arthur B. Fagan)

$100-$249
Peter Van Soest
William & Andrea Burnside (in memory of Robert E. Burnside)

$10-$99
Brent & Susan Dugolinsky
Cabins to Castles Real Estate
Cedric Stewart (in memory of Nellie R. Stewart)
Colleeen Howell
Don Phillips (in memory of Norman Evenden)
Floyd & Ann Hull
Genevieve Dean
Harold Kockner
Harold’s Garage
Helen-Marie Sipperley
James Barber
John & Dannie Brown
Kenneth Hilliard
Linda Marmora (in memory of John & Mariann Marmora)
Lane’s Yamaha
Lenarda Wheaton
Linda Moore
Martha Schuster
Russell & Alice Quinata-Eastwood
Virginia Houseknecht

Schuyler-Yates RSVP engages persons, age 55 and older, in volunteer service to meet critical community needs and to provide a high-quality experience that will enrich the lives of volunteers. For information, call 607-535-7105 or e-mail rke9@cornell.edu.

Dick Evans
Director, Schuyler / Yates RSVP
323 Owego St., Unit 5
Montour Falls, NY 14865

RSVP expanding tax counseling service

To the Editor on Jan. 23:

Schuyler-Yates RSVP has offered free tax counseling for the elderly for over 30 years. This year, trained RSVP volunteers will again offer persons 60 and older assistance to prepare and submit their federal and New York State tax returns. But 2012 will bring a few changes to the program.

Our goal is to continue offering tax counseling for Schuyler County residents 60 and older, while expanding the program to make this free tax preparation service available to more low and moderate income Schuyler County residents. The United Way of the Southern Tier’s CA$H tax assistance program helps low and moderate-income households as well as seniors. CA$H and RSVP volunteer tax preparers will be available Wednesdays, February 1, 8 and 15 at the Human Services Complex in Montour Falls, and throughout the tax season at locations in Chemung and Steuben Counties . To schedule an appointment with CA$H, call the 2-1-1 Helpline by simply dialing 211 or call 1-800-346-2211.

RSVP will resume our tax service for seniors Wednesdays, between February 22 and April 11, also at the Human Services Complex. If you are a Schuyler County resident, age 60 and older, and wish to make an appointment for tax counseling between February 22 and April 11, call 607-535-8242 and leave a message. An RSVP volunteer will contact you to schedule a time.

If you have general questions about our free tax preparation services or filing your tax return, please call Lilly Hartman at RSVP, 607-273-1511 or call the 2-1-1 Helpline.

Dick Evans
Director, Schuyler / Yates RSVP
323 Owego St., Unit 5
Montour Falls, NY 14865

Fire was caused by an older freezer

To the Editor on Jan. 22:

We want to let you know that the fire that burned our barn/farm shop down on January 9th was all caused by an older freezer. The compressor had malfunctioned and started the fire. We would like to thank the Beaver Dams, Montour Falls, Watkins Glen, Odessa, Monterey and North Corning Fire Departments for coming and helping to save the rest of our buildings and animals.

Please let others know that they need to have all older freezers checked on a regular basis so that this does not happen to anyone else.

Harold Mattison and Jane Nichols

I will return my $148 as a donation

To the Editor on Jan. 15:

This legislature has determined that they should get a cost-of-living adjustment in their salary on an annual basis. I just want to clarify that the amount of the 2012 salary increase for each legislator (8) is $148.00, plus the chairman will get an increase on the amount he is paid in addition for being chairman. I attempted to prevent any increase in my salary through resolution, but the legislature denied me that opportunity. I will return my $148.00 increase back to the taxpayers as a donation.

Barbara Halpin, Legislator District 3

Thanks to all who helped Seneca Santa

To the Editor on Jan. 15:

Seneca Santa, Inc. 2011 served approximately 367 children from 175 families. Without the support of individuals, businesses, civic groups, and various organizations, none of this would have been possible.

Hazlitt Winery offers the chance for people to donate their time and monies while enjoying the holiday season with their annual fund-raiser. It has become as much of a tradition in Schuyler County as the Seneca Santa program itself.

Debbie Simpson, Terri Orbin, Jim, Mary, and Laura Mack, Eleanor Callanan, Mary Coykendall, Jeff Pastore, Jenny Chicone, Marilyn Cross, Mary Ann Cleary, Sue Brace, Judy VanSkiver, Kathy Gillette, Bill Kennedy, Vickie Perrazini, Nicki Bruno, Rick Moshier, and Mary Jane Harnas gave unselfishly of their time and energy.

The Watkins Glen Presbyterian Church, Drs. Schultz and Fitzgerald, Frank’s Disposal Service, Marty Roberts and his co-workers, Dr. Berry, Karey Solomon, the Girl Scouts, Tara Ellis and Wal-Mart, the students and faculty/staff at the Watkins Glen High School, Jim Scott and his Junior Varsity basketball team, the volunteer firemen and women of Schuyler County, the bagging “elves.”

There is nothing better than acknowledging and recognizing people who make it all happen. All of the above mentioned were an integral part of Seneca Santa 2011. Personal thanks and gratitude to all those unmentioned individuals whose unwavering support throughout the years have made hundreds of children have a memorable Christmas. For understanding the importance of this longstanding tradition and always being there, I thank you and ask God’s blessings on each and every one of you.

Peggy Scott
President

Bob Burnside was a tireless volunteer

To the Editor on Jan. 13:

The death of Bob Burnside leaves a hole in United Way of Schuyler County. He was a longtime active volunteer serving on the board of directors. The key word is “active.” He was not just a board member who showed up to meetings to vote. He was involved in every avenue possible.

From just plain brainstorming ideas to working with the county employees participating in payroll deduction to the annual spaghetti dinner, he was a positive force and a tireless volunteer. Most recently, he was best known for his expertise managing the take-out dinners at the Moose Club spaghetti dinner.

Along with his family and many friends, the community has suffered a loss as well. We will miss him.

Peggy Scott
Executive Director
United Way of Schuyler County

Thanks to all who helped with tourney

To the Editor on Jan. 8:

I would like to say thank you to all of the people involved in helping with the annual Mike Watson Invitational wrestling tournament.

Local businesses who made contributions, please know that without your support this tournament would not be as successful as it was. Each year when the WG wrestling program puts the tournament together I realize that we live in a great community that is supportive and willing to “go the extra mile” to do what is right for the student athletes of WG.

To the parents and fans who donate their weekend to volunteering, your efforts are greatly appreciated. When we began to organize the event I was extremely happy with the number of families who stepped forward to help in any way possible. Thank you.

After the tournament is over, and this happens every year, coaches from the other schools approach me to thank WG for hosting and to tell me how much they like the event. Each time I hear a “thank you” or “great tournament,” please know that if you helped out in any way these comments are for you as well. So, if you donated to this successful event in any way at all, give yourself a pat on the back, smile, and know that you made it all possible.

Nils Watson
WGHS wrestling coach

Get involved: Come to Tea Party meeting

To the Editor on Dec. 19:

The first meeting for year 2012 of the Odessa Tea Party will be held Wednesday, January 4, 2012. This group represents the Schuyler County area and has been recognized as one of the most active and influential groups in the area. There are three new groups in the surrounding area that are the result of members attending the Odessa meetings and starting their own groups. This is a good testament for the Odessa Tea Party group.

Guest speaker for the January 4 event is Bill Nojay, well known radio personality, who has agreed to give us his insight on the current political events going on in our country now. Mr. Nojay has a wealth of experience and often provides a stimulating view of the political atmosphere in our country.

I do hope the people of Schuyler County and the surrounding areas will get involved and learn what some of our options are and action we can take as citizens to correct the current trends of spend, spend, spend, to the point we are broke. Our federal government is broke. Our state is broke. Our own local governments continue to increase our taxes. The one thing that seems to be lacking is the desire to tackle the big issues of entitlements and mandates in an effort to curtail the ever increasing tax burden on local residents. I encourage each of you to attend this meeting, join the Tea Party and get involved. Support your political leaders who are fighting for you. Let people know what you think and where you believe we need to make reductions to lower our tax levy.

A friend once reminded me: Saying NOTHING is saying something; Not to speak – is to speak; Not to Act – is to act.

The year 2012 elections may be the most important in our lifetime. We the people are the 4th branch of government and we have been silent for too long. Each of us should take the action and be responsible for becoming as informed on the important issues as we can. Do not rely on just what you read on the Internet or local papers. Do your own research and learn as much about the issues as you can. Do not be hyped by political parties, whether they be Republican, Democrat, Libertarian, or whatever. The Odessa group tends to strongly support the Constitution, not a political party. If political candidates demonstrate by their actions that they support the Constitution and basically smaller government, the group tends to support those candidates. Again, we are non political. But very strong on the Constitution.

Mark your calendar: January 4, 2012 at 7:00 p.m.
Odessa Tea Party Meeting
Odessa Municipal Building
300 E. Main Street, Odessa, NY

We urge you to get involved and join us. Bill Nojay is an excellent speaker and will offer some stimulating commentary. Time will be allotted for questions at the end of the program.

Bill Card, Odessa Tea Party

How do we get a response from legislators?

To the Editor on Dec. 14:

I attended the Schuyler County Legislature’s public meeting on Monday night, December 12. At this meeting, the Legislature adopted a 2012 budget containing a 2.1% increase in the property tax levy. I must admit that I still don’t understand this Legislature’s insistence on passing a tax increase. I worked in Corporate America for many years, and more than once during financial crises, I and my fellow employees endured salary freezes. We didn’t enjoy this but we were simply grateful to still have jobs, and somehow, we all seemed to survive! Legislators, did you ever consider a freeze on all County employees’ wages rather than raising our taxes? I am confident that the amount saved would have been enough to avoid a tax increase, would it not?

I also don’t understand why taxpayers cannot obtain answers to the questions that they pose to our Legislators during these “public” meetings. Several taxpayers were present and asked questions about various topics pertaining to the budget. The response from Chairman Fagan was that “this is not a question and answer session.” Other speakers provided suggestions on how to cut taxes. Not a single Legislator provided positive feedback to the speaker such as, “we’ll look into the matter,” “it’s something we will investigate” or “we’ll take this into consideration for next year’s budget.”

My question to the Legislators is: Why hold a public meeting if you are not actually willing to listen and respond to the public’s concerns? My question is rhetorical, as I understand that monthly public Legislature meetings are required under New York State law, but it would be of great benefit to everyone living in Schuyler County if the Legislature was truly willing to engage in an ongoing dialog with its concerned citizens.

Lastly, I wish to thank Legislator Halpin for attempting to forgo her 2% cost of living increase, for acknowledging the public who were present at the meeting and for explaining many items being discussed. She seems to be the only Legislator who has the public’s interests at heart.

Mary Jane Harnas

Please support Seneca View

To the Editor on Dec. 14:

I never fully appreciated the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility until my grandmother moved in during the winter of 2002. She had previously been living in an assisted living facility in Syracuse, but my mother -- Kathy Fragola, a long-time supporter of Schuyler Hospital and Seneca View -- recognized that her mother needed better, and more personal, care than she had been receiving.

I visited my grandmother several times at Seneca View until her death five years later. What I saw greatly impressed me. Above all else, there was (and still is) the top-notch staff that took care of every facet of her care: physical, emotional, and mental. The obvious affection they had for all their residents shone through when they would discuss their health. As a visitor, I never felt that I was coming at the wrong time or that my attention was an intrusion on the daily routine. My children were welcome to come, run around, and make noise, and our visits were fun family events.

My grandmother, though fading in her faculties, blossomed there. Smiles were frequent, she participated in many activities and rarely could be found in her bed in the middle of the day. Both my mother and I wished that we had moved her there sooner, so she could have enjoyed more of what Seneca View has to offer.

I feel strongly about contributing to Schuyler Hospital’s 2011 Family of Friends Campaign to renovate Seneca View, but not just because of the terrific care my grandmother received. Seneca View is a strong asset to the community as a whole. Elderly people need a place to go when they can no longer live alone, and the closer they can stay to their network of family, friends, church, and history, the easier the transition to assisted living is. By supporting Seneca View, we are all ensuring that it will be there if/when it is needed for our own families. I feel better about living far away from my mother because I know that – if needed – she can live in Seneca View, look out over the beautiful lake, and be treated as well (if not better) than if she lived anywhere else. Please, support Seneca View. Chances are someone you know-- a teacher, a friend’s parent, your bus driver-- has been or will be there. Don’t you want it to remain a place they can be proud to call home?

Michelle Hoffman
Needham, MA

Investing in early learning builds economy

To the Editor on Dec. 12:

Investments in quality early learning will boost the local economy through increased local spending, decreased employee absenteeism and increased ability to attract and retain qualified employees.

The Schuyler County child care industry provides approximately 158 jobs which allow families to work and generate income. Parent payments to child care providers and programs feed the local economy because workers and employers spend their income in the local community; buying food, paying mortgages, and purchasing services. According to a report by America’s Edge, “for every $1 invested in early care and education in New York, $1.86 is generated in additional spending within the state.”

Expanding child care investments will benefit businesses everyday through reduced absentee rate and turnover. A survey of local businesses conducted by the Schuyler County Child Care Coordinating Council (SCCCCC) in 2009 indicated that child illness is one of the top two reasons for employee absenteeism. In addition child care needs are one of the top four reasons. Research indicates that the average parent misses 5 to 9 days of work per year due to child care issues, costing U.S. businesses $3 billion a year in lost productivity. Research confirms that parents using quality child care programs not only have reduced absenteeism rates and lower turnover, their productivity increases as well.

Building the local economy begins with quality child care and educational programs. This allows businesses to attract and retain skilled employees. More importantly, quality early learning experiences, beginning at birth, prepare children for school and for life as they become our future workforce.

For information on ways you can support quality child care in Schuyler County, contact Debbie MacDonald at 535-7964. To read the full America’s Edge Report, Strengthening New York Businesses Through Investments in Early Care and Education, visit the business page of our website at www.sccccc.org and download the America’s Edge Report.

Debbie MacDonald, SCCCCC

Family-tree researchers seeking input

To the Editor on Dec. 8:

These are some of the last names in my husband's family tree. They all fall under the Hewlett-Finch line or the Grover-Seamon line and also the Seamon-Wright line. There are 3,952 people that we have found so far. If anyone reading this is related to any of the following people, please email me at: magruff5@juno.com and put “family” in the subject line.

Bacon, Bailey, Brown, Burlingame, Campbell, Chaffee, Chapman, Cooper, Cornell, Cranmer, Crispell, Cunningham, Davis, Dean, Decker, Dickson, Doolittle, Drake, Evens, Ferris, Finch, Forsyth, Gable, Gallow, Grant, Grover, Hall, Harris, Hewlett, Hill, Hoffman, Hollenback, Hyde, Jayne, Johnson, Lewis, Lisk, Lockwood, Marshall, Mathews, Miller, Mott, Myers, Nero, Parker, Parshall, Personius, Peterson, Poole, Predmore, Rorick, Rose, Rumsey, Seamon, Shaw, Sherman, Smith, Swartwood, Teeter, Theetge, Thomas, Towsend, Tyler, Van Zile, White, Whitman, Wolfe, Woodin, Wright, Zimmer

Tom and Sharon Bradford

Board to receive anti-fracking petition

To the Editor on Dec. 8:

On December 13th, 2011 at 7 p.m. concerned residents will present a petition to the Town Board of Hector, NY calling for the board to enact a local ban or a moratorium for hydrofracking in the Town of Hector. Since the town hall can only safely accommodate 60 people, additional citizens will be holding a candlelight vigil outside the town hall.

In recent months citizen’s groups in Hector have been working to educate the board on the inherent dangers of hydrofracking, including health and safety issues, overall quality of life and the negative impact to the local economy, which depends heavily on tourism, wineries and agriculture.

The petition effort began in the early autumn of 2011 and is being presented now because of concern that the state DEC may begin issuing permits for hydrofracking in 2012.

The Hector Town Hall is located at 5097 State Route 227, Burdett, NY. Board meetings are the second Tuesday of every month from 7-9 p.m.

Josh Harben, Volunteer, Media/Public Relations
Hector Clean Water Initiative

Small amounts do make a difference

To the Editor on Dec. 8:

On behalf of those taxpayers who were unable to attend the Schuyler County Budget Meeting on November 30th, I would like to thank Legislator Barbara Halpin for taking the initiative of reviewing the budget, line item by line item, and recommending changes. I am very disappointed that our other Legislators were unwilling to support her in this effort. It appeared that the majority of our Legislature was unwilling to address many of the changes Barbara proposed.
I was especially upset that, in response to Ms. Halpin’s proposal to eliminate the Legislators’ 2% cost of living increase for the coming year, Legislator Tom Gifford replied: “Like my $102 is going to make a difference.” Small amounts DO make a difference and we should be looking at every penny being spent, especially in these trying times.

I heard other noteworthy comments from our legislators, such as “the program has been in place for years and years” or “it’s been done this way in the past.” For better or worse, this is 2011 and we have a stagnant economy. Many of our taxpaying citizens are fighting to make ends meet. Tough decisions must be taken to cut or eliminate programs which do not benefit the majority of taxpayers.

Finally, I believe it is unfortunate that the Legislature’s committee meetings are held during daytime hours, when the majority of taxpayers are working and therefore unable to attend and provide input. The evening Legislature meeting where public comment is allowed is merely a rubber-stamp meeting to approve decisions already made. But hey, what’s the problem? A lack of oversight? We don’t need to worry about oversight -- our Legislators are elected to represent the taxpayers’ best interests and that’s what they’re doing. Right?!!

Mary Jane Harnas, A Concerned Taxpayer

'Light of Hope Brunch' set at restaurant

To the Editor on Dec. 5:

Every year, more than 1,500 children are reported abused and neglected in Chemung, Schuyler, and Steuben Counties. To raise awareness of alarming statistics like these, CASA of the Southern Tier, Inc. will host a brunch on December 11th from 10:00 am until 2:00 at Castel Grisch Winery and Restaurant on Irelandville Rd., Watkins Glen, NY.

All proceeds will benefit the children in our community. Tickets are $20/person, $10/child, gratuity and alcohol not included. Table and time reservations must be made in advance, so please call 535-9614 to reserve your seat today. Please call the CASA office at (607) 936-CASA (2272) for your tickets in advance, or they may be purchased at the door.

CASA of the Southern Tier, Inc., (affiliated with the National CASA Association), is a nonprofit organization that advocates for the best interest of abused and neglected children in Family Court through trained community volunteers. We hope you will join us in giving children hope for a positive future. Thank you.

--Amy Plumley
CASA of the Southern Tier, Inc

Tell them you don't want taxes raised

To the Editor on Dec. 5:

Kudos to all of you who attended meetings, participated in Mark’s survey, called me, emailed me or met me personally. Your participation in Schuyler County government is appreciated and very much needed.

Despite our best efforts, the Schuyler Legislature is determined to raise your taxes. I have done all I can do. Now you and every like-minded taxpayer in Schuyler must do your part by calling your elected representatives and telling them you do not want your taxes raised again.

If you do not know the contact information for your representatives, go to the Schuyler County website, www.schuylercounty.us and click on Legislature. At the bottom of the page is a link to the contact information for legislators. Keep up the great work!!

Barbara Halpin, Legislator, District III

Kristy is a role model for our children

To the Editor on Dec. 3:

We were very happy to read on The Forum the letter from Kristy Wood. What a wonderful piece of news in an otherwise sad situation. Kristy was our first (and only for a long time) babysitter 14 plus years ago. It was very evident then as it is now that Kristy was committed to doing her best and that Schuyler County was her home!

Having Kristy as a Pharmacist serving the Schuyler County community is an example to others (students and young adults) that there are great opportunities for them in our community. Kristy went out into the "world" and worked hard to acquire skills necessary to come home and make a difference. And what a difference she has made!

We are very fortunate to have Kristy serving a critical need in the community and serving as a role model for our children.

Tom and Lisa Phillips

They will be greeted by a familiar face

To the Editor on Dec. 3:

I am currently the head pharmacist at CVS and I have been working in pharmacies since I started at Watkins Glen Drug & Surgical over 10 years ago. In addition to various internships, my professional work experience includes Schuyler Hospital and Montour Pharmacy. I live and work in this community and knowing what Montour Pharmacy used to be when Nick owned it, it breaks my heart to see this happen. Having worked there and at WGD&S, I know what it means to be a hometown pharmacy.

My whole life is here in Schuyler County and I consider myself fortunate to be able to serve my family, friends and the community that I love. I hope that former Montour Pharmacy customers will take some comfort in knowing that they will be greeted by a familiar face when they come to the Watkins Glen CVS.

Your hometown pharmacist,
Kristy Wood, PharmD

The budget survey results are in

To the Editor on Nov. 29:

I would like to inform all your readers that the Schuyler County Budget survey has been completed and the results compiled. The results are available here. I hope that everyone will look at these results, especially the comments following the charts. These comments are well worth reading and I hope that our legislators will consider them carefully.

We collected 53 responses to the survey. 77% of respondents said that property taxes were too high, and 66% of respondents said that they would be willing to sacrifice current services for lower property taxes. 65% of respondents felt that the Department of Social Services presented an opportunity for reducing services as a means to lower taxes, followed by 39% who felt that the Youth Bureau and the Sheriff's Department also presented such opportunities.

I thank all those who took the time to participate in this survey. It would not have been possible without your help. I also encourage everyone to attend the budget workshop on Wednesday morning, November 30 at 9:00 AM in the Legislative Chambers in Watkins Glen.

Mark Rondinaro
Watkins Glen

Real trees preferable to artificial ones

To the Editor on Nov. 20:

I believe it would be an appropriate time to get an important message to your readers. Many think it is better to use an artificial tree than to cut a real one, when just the opposite is true.

A real tree is biodegradable, renewable (planted like a crop of corn and replanted the following year), made in America, provides employment and is good for our air quality, whereas an artificial tree is a petrochemical, not biodegradable, made in China, does nothing for our air quality and, when disposed of, remains in our landfills for a very long time.

Joe Stevenson
West Hill Tree Farm

Survey is a wonderful idea

To the Editor on Nov. 19:

It is my opinion Mr. Rondinaro has a wonderful idea to help the Legislature in Schuyler County with everyone's input by way of the survey link listed below in his letter to the editor.

I encourage all taxpayers to definitely take that survey and send your ideas which could help our leaders who seem a bit lost for ideas in adjusting our budget . Our input could be just what the doctor ordered.

So wake up Schuyler taxpayers. Instead of complaining in private about taxes, make your voice heard on Mark's constructive survey instead...

Kudos to Mark for his great idea.

Alan Hurley, a seriously concerned taxpayer

Survey will gauge budget sentiment

To the Editor on Nov. 18:

I wish to commend the Schuyler County Legislature for choosing to postpone adoption of the 2012 budget. This will allow a budget workshop of the entire legislature to consider possible modifications to the proposed budget.

In support of that process, and in the interest of expanded public involvement in the legislative process, I have prepared a short Online Schuyler County Budget Survey, located at "http://goo.gl/MsUg8". I invite all adult residents of Schuyler County to participate in this survey, and give your opinion as to whether you would be willing to make the tradeoff of reduced services in return for lower property taxes. The survey should take no more than five minutes. The results will be presented to the County Legislature in advance of the budget workshop.

The survey asks for personal contact information, which is required so that I can present the legislature with a list of survey participants, to prove that participants are actual residents of Schuyler County. No individual responses will be linked to contact information; the legislature will only be provided with the aggregated totals and a list of all participants. I will also make the aggregated responses available to The Odessa File as well. Survey participants will have an opportunity to request that the survey total be sent to them by email. All responses and contact information will be deleted after the survey is completed, except for the names and email addresses of those requesting to be notified of future surveys.

I intend that this survey is the first of many inviting county residents to voice their opinions on a range of issues such as term limits for County Legislators, evening meeting times for all Legislative Committee meetings, and legislative redistricting options. This survey is a first effort and is somewhat simplistic; I apologize in advance if anyone feels that it is not as well structured or as complete as it could be. I welcome all input for my future efforts, especially if there are any professional pollsters residing in the area. If you would like to contact me to discuss the survey, my email address is rondinaroforschuyler@gmail.com.

Mark Rondinaro

Nothing is disparaging if true

To the Editor on Nov. 17:

I was in attendance at the recent county budget presentation and was happy to offer comments. Regarding Legislator Halpin feeling disparaged, nothing is disparaging if true. Legislator Halpin railed about being left out of the process, about how services and jobs may need to be cut and additional fees and revenue sources identified. In the very meeting to follow, she individually brought Intro 24 to increase funding for legal services by nearly 25 percent.

Legislator Halpin, if the $2,000 increase you proposed spending wasn't needed in its original line item, then cut it! Not shift it. I thought that this was your entire message????

Paul Marcellus
Watkins Glen

Thanks to those who spoke up at meeting

To the Editor on Nov. 16:

I want to thank those who came to the county budget hearing Monday evening and especially those who spoke up. You really influenced the Legislature to slow the budget adoption process down. You are proof that citizen participation can make a difference. Please keep it up!

I also want to respond to a disparaging remark made by Paul Marcellus. He questioned my support of Intro No. 24 that increased the contract for legal services in the Office for the Aging. The increase was within that department’s budget (another line was decreased) and so there was no increase in the county budget overall.

I would remind Paul that I did not support the 2011 budget because it increased the tax levy.

Barbara Halpin
Schuyler County Legislator

He was 'king' of repair and renovation

To the Editor on Nov. 12:

I just read ,with great sadness, of the passing of George Conklin on November 9th -- "unexpectedly at age 88" (we should all be so fortunate!). George was the Watkins Glen Central School District Superintendent of Buildings & Grounds from 1959-1985 who counted both John Cook and Lloyd Peak among his most unforgettable colleagues because "both were compassionate and fair in their dealings with people, and the students' interests were always first."

The greatest changes seen during his years of service -- in his own words from a 2000 survey -- were "new additions of the Shop, Girls Gym and Music Room at the Middle School, closing of the Burdett School, night football and bleachers on the Athletic Field and the change from coal to gas fuel in the Middle School boilers."

Most people were never aware of how many thousands of dollars George saved our District -- he was the "king" of repair and renovation and could do more with bailing wire and nails than any other person. Nothing was ever bought to replace anything until the old item had been repaired, renovated and rejuvenated as many times as possible. When I wrote the "100 Years Book" in honor of our 100th graduating class in 1982 and again when I wrote the updated version of our district's history (2008-2009), one of the first people I sought out for advice, information and recollections was George, and he was so honest and candid and happy to share his memories and experiences.

George had an outstanding career with our School District, and to his wife and family we extend heartfelt condolences.

Brian J. O'Donnell
President, WG Board of Education

Taxpayers should voice their concerns

To the Editor on Nov. 12:

Schuyler County taxpayers need to come to the county budget hearing at 6:30 p.m. Monday the 14th at the Human Services Complex in Montour Falls. The county budget, as proposed, will raise your taxes. If the proposed budget is adopted, the tax rate per $1,000 of assessed value will increase from $8.17 per $1,000 to $8.38 per $1,000. The only way to keep from raising the tax rate is to decrease or eliminate some services. Attend the public hearing and let the legislature know whether you want increased taxes or decreased services.

Barbara Halpin, Legislator District III

I thank District 1 voters for their support

To the Editor on Nov. 10:

I thank District 1 voters for their recent support allowing me to continue to represent them on the County Legislature. I sincerely appreciate this vote of confidence and look forward to continuing to work on their behalf meeting the challenges before us.

I am honored to be given the opportunity to represent them and look forward to great things in the coming years. I would also like to give a special thanks to all who supported me during this campaign to help get me re-elected.

Stewart F. Field Jr.
Legislature District One

Thanks to those who voted for me

To the Editor on Nov. 10:

I would like to thank all the voters of the towns of Reading, Tyrone and Orange who voted for me in Tuesday's election for legislator in District 1 of the Schuyler County Legislature. I especially want to thank all of you who promoted my candidacy and my platform of increased transparency, responsiveness and competence in local government.Your support was heartwarming and much appreciated. I will not forget your efforts on my behalf, and will continue to look for opportunities to serve our community.

I also wish to congratulate my opponent, Mr. Stewart Field, Jr., on his victory in this race. I wish him good luck and great success in the next four years. I know that he will do his utmost to represent the interests of the people of the district.

Finally, I would like to ask my supporters for one last favor as we wind down this campaign. I will be traveling throughout the towns in the next few days, retrieving my yard signs for disposal. If, by next Monday, you see any signs remaining out, I ask that you please contact me by phone (at 607-398-0648) or by email (at rondinaroforschuyler@gmail.com) letting me know where the remaining signs are located, and I will pick them up. I have a few signs which I cannot account for, and do not wish to have them littering our beautiful area. Alternatively, feel free to grab any of my signs and recycle them yourself.

Mark Rondinaro

Thanks to all of my supporters

To the Editor on Nov. 9:

Well, the voters have spoken. I wish to express my deepest gratitude to my supporters in the recent Town of Dix Judge's race. We ran a very positive campaign, and stuck to our goal and issue-oriented agenda to bring about change, and although we didn't win, we ran a campaign we can all be proud of.

A special thank you to the voters who may have had trouble locating my name in the bottom right on the ballot. That was something that was beyond our control. Once again, congratulations to my opponent and thank you so much to everyone in Dix who stuck with me over the past eight months.

Ron Alexander
Watkins Glen

Good luck to all those elected

To the Editor on Nov. 9:

My congratulations go out to Gary Jackson, the newly elected Town of Tyrone Supervisor. And my special thanks go out to all who supported my campaign across the Town of Tyrone.

The voters have spoken. Now Tyrone has a new slate of competent leadership that will work diligently to seek ways to cut taxes and reduce costs.

Good luck to all elected officers!

Alan Hurley

I'm confident we'll achieve our goals

To the Editor on Nov. 9:

Let me begin by thanking all of you who voted for me in the Primary Election in September and again, or for the first time, yesterday in the General Election. Your votes are a statement about your confidence in me to perform the duties of the position of Schuyler County Treasurer.

To those who did not vote for me in either election… I hope in the next four years, I can earn your respect and support for the work performed and efforts made within the Treasurer’s Office.

Now that this election is behind us, if you have yard signs in support of my campaign, call me and I will gladly come and pick them up, as well as signs for other candidates too. (607-962-5100, leave name/address/phone#)

Accuracy, Accountability, Respect, Client-Friendly Interactions, and Disclosure… These are our goals, and I’m confident we will achieve them. Again… thank you for your support.

Schuyler County Treasurer-Elect
Gary Whyman

I congratulate Dennis Morris

To the Editor on Nov. 9:

I would like to thank all of the voters who cast their ballot for me. I would also like to thank the wonderful people who helped me with my campaign. I would especially like to thank my wife, Susan, my children, Isabella and Georgio, and my mother, who stuffed envelopes for hours at a time and never once complained. Running for public office is a humbling experience that takes complete dedication. Many candidates put their necks on the line tonight. Half of them lost (myself included). For sure, they all gave it their all. While on the campaign trail, I had the pleasure of crossing paths with almost every candidate in Schuyler County. I applaud the effort that each of them put in.

I congratulate Dennis Morris on his victory. He fought hard and convinced a majority of the voters that he is the best person for the job. I wish him luck as the new Schuyler County Court Judge. As for me, I will continue to serve in my role as District Attorney with the goal of keeping Schuyler County one of the safest places to live in New York State. It has always been and will always be an honor to serve this county.

Joseph G. Fazzary

I will try to live up to the legacy

To the Editor on Nov. 9:

I would like to thank the voters of Schuyler County who have entrusted me with this honored position. During the last eight months I had the pleasure of meeting thousands of you personally and I appreciate that you allowed me a few moments of your time. I am humbled by your support and will try to live up to the legacy of the Judges who have served Schuyler County so well in past years. I cannot thank my family and supporters enough for the wisdom and encouragement they have given me. Quietly, this team of Republicans, Conservatives, Democrats and Independents worked together towards a common goal that transcended traditional labels.

Thanks to all.

Dennis Morris

The Pulse of the Neighbors

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