Death Notice: Elena Vitali Richardson

Elena Vitali Richardson, 83, of Watkins Glen died unexpectedly on Wednesday, Sept. 1 at Arnot-Ogden Medical Center. Calling hours were Friday, Sept. 3 at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen. A Mass of Christian burial was held at Saturday, Sept. 4 at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, Watkins Glen. For the complete obituary, see People.

Death Notice: Christine C. Cosgrove

Christine C. Cosgrove, 77, of Watkins Glen died unexpectedly on Saturday, Sept. 4 at the Arnot-Ogden Medical Center, Elmira. Calling hours and a funeral service were held Wednesday, Sept. 8 at the Haughey-Wood Funeral Home, Watkins Glen. For the complete obituary, see People.

Death Notice: James 'Matthew' Floyd

James "Matthew" Floyd, 32, of Lakemont, NY and Palestine, Texas -- a U.S. Marine veteran and a U.S. Salt Company employee -- died unexpectedly after a brief illness on Friday, Sept. 3 at Arnot-Ogden Medical Center, Elmira. A calling hour and memorial service were held Wednesday, Sept. 8 at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen. For the complete obituary, see People.

Ribbon-cutting marks opening of new winery

The opening of the new J.R. Dill Winery along Rt. 414 on the east side of Seneca Lake was marked with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, Aug. 20. Business.

Left: Jeffrey R. Dill, the new winery's owner.

Warriors lose to Syracuse Shock

The Southern Tier Warriors minor-league football team fell Saturday, Aug. 28 to the unbeaten Syracuse Shock, 40-6, in a North American Football League game in Syracuse The loss dropped the Warriors' season mark to 3-5 heading into a game Saturday, Sept. 11 against the Glove Cities Colonials in Jamestown. Warriors.

Graduation ceremony focuses on 1 student

Only one of five Watkins Glen High School summer graduates attended the Aug. 26 summer commencement exercise at the school, but the event wasn't lacking in enthusiasm or satisfaction. Schools.

Left: Graduate Donny Solberg

Andrew Cuomo visits Montour Falls, WGI

Gubernatorial candidate Andrew Cuomo's campaign stopped in Montour Falls Thursday, Aug. 19 and then at Watkins Glen International. For story and photos, see Govt.

Left: Andrew Cuomo

Proposed restaurant clears hurdle

A proposed Oriental Hibachi Buffet restaurant at 511 N. Franklin St. in Watkins Glen is given final site-plan approval by the village Planning Board. Renovation of the building's interior comes next. Business.

Scalfone repeats in rainy Half Marathon

The 2nd annual Catharine Valley Half Marathon attracted 200 runners Aug. 22 in a steady, often heavy rain. Nick Scalfone successfully defended his title from last year, while Katie Aldridge led the women. Race.

Left: Half Marathon winner Nick Scalfone and girlfriend Lisa Blum

Southworth & Rays entertain at the park

Steve Southworth & The Rockabilly Rays performed 1950s and early '60s music Tuesday night at the weekly Concert in the Park series at Watkins Glen's Lafayette Park. The concert attracted an estimated 400 people. The last installment of the 2010 series is next Tuesday, when Girls Gone Mild play blues, folk, jazz and rock music.

Left: Steve Southworth

True Love schooner christened at mixer

The 1926 Malabar schooner True Love was christened Wednesday, Aug. 18 as part of a Chamber of Commerce mixer held on the Seneca Harbor Pier. For a story and photos, see Features.

Pictured: True Love co-owners Josh Navone (left) and his wife Lisa (inset)

Watkins board hears about drilling effects

The Watkins Glen Village Board -- with an eye toward the possibility of Marcellus Shale drilling in the state -- heard a report Aug. 16th on the socio-economic effects of such a thing occurring. They also heard from Police Chief Thomas Struble on the recent Italian-American Festival. Government.

Left: Watkins Police Chief Thomas Struble at the meeting

Summary of Aug. 16 School Board meeting

The Watkins Glen School Board met Monday evening, Aug. 16, and dealt with several matters -- including approval of a tax levy that reflected a lower than expected tax rate of $11.55 per $1,000 of assessed value, up 34 cents. The tax rate had been expected at $11.63. Board.

Left: Watkins School Board member Kevin Field

From the creative mind of Ron Havens ....

Conservatives beware. Catharine Corners' Ron Havens -- known for his politically charged statuary in front of his home -- weighs in with more cartoons, his 40th collection on this website. Toons.

Montoya: Heluva Good champion at The Glen

Juan Pablo Montoya (left) cruised to victory Aug. 8 in the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen NASCAR auto race at Watkins Glen International. The victory, Montoya's first at WGI, was his second on the Sprint Cup circuit in four seasons. He finished 4.736 seconds ahead of Kurt Busch. Race.

Final Images here.

Legislators back plan for new animal shelter

The Schuyler County Legislature on Aug. 9th backed an effort by the local Humane Society to build a new animal shelter, and passed two local laws providing early retirement incentives to county workers. Legislature.

Left: Legislature Chairman Thomas Gifford

Summary of Watkins School Board meeting

The Watkins Glen School Board met Monday evening, Aug. 2. A meeting summary provided by the school district office appears here.

Left: School Board President Brian J. O'Donnell

Couple meets boy saved by their son's heart

It was an emotional day July 31st for Holly and Andrew Campbell -- both teachers in the Odessa-Montour school district -- as they met the boy who received the heart of their late son Jake in 2007. The meeting came at the U.S. Transplant Games. People.

Left: Holly Campbell and Beckham Scadlock, who received Jake's heart

Town of Catharine moves its offices

The Town of Catharine offices will now be located on Park Road, across from Catharine Park. Government.

Left: Sign in the door of the old office on Grant Road

State candidates speak in Odessa

Longtime Assemblyman and current State Senate candidate James Bacalles (R-Corning) and former Elmira Mayor and current State Assembly candidate James Hare (D-Elmira) were guest speakers Wednesday night, Aug. 4 at a meeting hosted by We the People in the Odessa Municipal Building. We the People is hosting appearances by various candidates during this election season, including GOP Assembly candidates Paul Marcellus and George Richter on Aug. 18.

Italian-American Festival, Hector Fair draw to end

The Italian-American Festival held its annual parade and fireworks July 31st. The festival, at Clute Park in Watkins Glen, ended Aug. 1. Festival. The 52nd annual Hector Fair concluded its run July 31st with an auto show and fireworks. Hector

Grant will spur study of alternative energy

The Watkins Glen School District received an $86,300 Appalachian Regional Commission grant Tuesday to be used to incorporate the study of renewable energy into the high school curriculum. Grant.

Local celebrities bag groceries, raise funds

Local celebrities -- including politicians and business people -- bagged groceries Thursday at Walmart in Watkins Glen as part of an annual Bag-A-Thon fund-raiser for the Schuyler Health Foundation. Business.

Left: Local celebrity bagger Linda Confer

Welliver, Glenora are Vintage GP sponsors

Welliver McGuire and Glenora Wine Cellars are the new sponsors for the Glenora Wine Cellars U.S. Vintage Grand Prix presented by Welliver-McGuire, Sept. 10-12 at WGI. Business.

O-M unveils honor roll

The 6th Marking Period Honor Rolls for Odessa-Montour's Middle and High Schools have been released. See them here.

Area youths participate in annual Boys' State

A number of Schuyler County high school students were among the graduates of the 74th annual Boys' State program held recently at Morrisville State College. People.

Fittipaldi visits WGI, Watkins Glen

Former Formula 1 and CART racing champion Emerson Fittipaldi was at Watkins Glen International and in Watkins Glen July 14 in connection with a documentary he is shooting. Fittipaldi.

Johnston Sr. named WGHS football coach

Michael Johnston Sr. -- a former Horseheads athletic director and former Odessa-Montour principal -- was appointed head football coach at Watkins Glen High School July 7th by the Watkins Glen School Board.

The board also re-elected Brian O'Donnell to his second one-year term as School Board president, while Mike Myers was re-elected as Board vice president. Football..

Odessa fire department observes its 100th

A community open house July 10 at the Odessa fire hall helped mark the 100th anniversary of the village's fire department. Features.

Dehumanization ....

... of others could logically lead to the same for ourselves. Column.

WGHS lists honor roll for the 4th quarter

The 4th Quarter High Honor and Honor Rolls for Watkins Glen High School have been released. See them here.

Annie Jr. wraps up run

The Lake Country Players production of the musical Annie Jr., featuring a young cast, completed its weekend run Sunday with a performance in the Watkins Glen High School auditorium. Features.

Power wins IndyCar Camping World at Glen

Team Penske's Will Power, the Camping World Grand Prix at The Glen pole-sitter, took the lead from teammate Ryan Briscoe on the 44th lap of the 60-lap race and went on to win the IndyCar event July 4th at the Watkins Glen International track. It was Powers' third victory of the season and added to his lead in the season points standings.

Left: This sky diver was a Camping World pre-race attraction. (Photo by Susan Bleiler)

Barnes appointed to Schuyler Legislature

Schuyler County Republican Chairman Philip C. Barnes (left) was appointed June 30th to the county Legislature to complete the unexpired term of Paul Marcellus, who resigned. The vote was 5-1, with Legislator Barbara Halpin opposed. Govt.

OFA helps Glen man celebrate his 100th

About 25 people were on hand June 28 at the Schuyler County Office for the Aging Congregate Meal Site at the Human Services Complex to help Warren Kendall of Glen Avenue in Watkins Glen -- a frequent visitor to the site -- celebrate his 100th birthday. Warren -- a widower and former store owner -- was born June 28, 1910. Warren loves dancing "and has shown off his talents at our Senior Citizen Dinner Dances," said an OFA official, adding: "He maintains the sparkle in his eyes, a genuine smile, and a kind heart."

WGHS sends seniors out on "the next step"

A total of 89 Watkins Glen High School seniors graduated Saturday afternoon in a ceremony in the school auditorium. Speeches were presented by five different members of the class, including Valedictorian Phillip Kellogg and Salutatorian Jenna Swarthout. Said one of the speakers, Eric Mack: "Here's to the next step." Awards and scholarships also highlighted the event, which drew a capacity crowd. Graduation.

Left: WGHS graduate Lee Ann Gezzi.

Odessa-Montour says farewell to its seniors

A total of 69 Odessa-Montour High School seniors received their diplomas Friday night in a Commencement Exercise in the school auditorium. The keynote speaker was Dr. Stephen Spaulding. The valedictorian was Katie Griggs, while the salutatorian was Stephanie Letteer. For story and photos, see Graduation.

Left: Salutatorian Stephanie Letteer

Board OKs fund-raising for possible Malawi trip

The Watkins Glen School Board on June 22 gave its blessing for the high school's Model United Nations and Global Issues class to seek funding for a possible trip by seven to 10 students to Malawi in 2011. Board.

Left: Student Sarah Bond addresses the School Board.

Board focus: zoning, recycling and a sign

The Watkins Glen Village Board on June 21 approved a Local Law updating zoning, approved a recycling bid, and talked about an annoying sign at 4th and Decatur. Government.

Death Notice:
Judy Lynn Chrisman

Judy Lynn Chrisman, 34, of Horseheads -- a 1994 graduate of Watkins Glen High School -- died Saturday, June 19 after a battle with cancer. Calling hours were June 24 at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen. A funeral service was held there June 25. For the complete obituary, see People.

Rotary honors Ciccone as Paul Harris Fellow

Rose Ciccone, originator and longtime director of the Concerts in the Park series in Watkins Glen, was honored June 24th by the Watkins-Montour Rotary Club as it named her a Paul Harris Fellow. The award is presented to people who reflect the Rotary Foundation goals of peace and goodwill. Ciccone, a former member of the Watkins Glen Village Board, was earlier this year named the Senior Citizen of the Year by the Schuyler County Office for the Aging.

Death Notice: Frank D. Ganung

Frank D. Ganung, 87, of Moreland -- a dairy farmer, a former Schuyler County Legislator and the Town of Dix Supervisor from 1961-2005 -- died at home on Saturday, June 19. There are no visiting hours and no service. Burial will be in Roby Cemetery in Grover, Pa. at the convenience of the family. For the complete obituary, see People.

It was sunny & rainy at Cardboard Boat Regatta

The 17th annual Cardboard Boat Regatta at Seneca Harbor had a crowd, plenty of food, sunshine, stifling heat, cooling breezes and a downpour. And, oh yes, it offered an entertaining afternoon. Features.

Left: Taking a tumble

New playground opens at B.C. Cate school

A new playground -- part of a multi-faceted Odessa-Montour School District construction program -- got its first use Friday at B.C. Cate Elementary School. Opening.

Left: Superintendent James Frame with a student on the playground

Franzese announces run for Legislature

Angeline Franzese (R-District 2), a member of the Schuyler County Legislature from 1982-1997 and its first female Chair (1992-96), has announced she is seeking a seat on that same legislative body in this year's election.

Franzese (right), a mother of four, grandmother of five and a Watkins Glen businesswoman, ran without success for a seat four years ago. In her announcement Friday, she said: "As a Conservative Republican, I will put the people's health and safety first. Jobs will be a top priority. I will work for real job growth and support the businesses that can bring the jobs we need."

All three District 2 seats are up for grabs They are currently held by Chairman Thomas Gifford and Michael Yuhasz -- Republicans both reportedly circulating petitions -- and by Paul Marcellus, a Republican who has announced a run for the State Assembly instead of seeking re-election to the Legislature.

No County Hall of Fame inductions this year

The will be no Schuyler County Hall of Fame nominations or inductions this year, the Hall's Advisory Committee has announced. The move, it said, is designed to "maintain the integrity of this most prestigious Schuyler County award." People.

Expansion planned for Watkins motel

The owner of the Budget Inn on South Franklin Street in Watkins Glen is planning to expand the facility, and is trying to ally with Best Western. Business.

Legislator Marcellus plans Assembly run

Republican Schuyler County Legislator Paul Marcellus (left) confirmed Tuesday that he will seek the 137th Assembly District seat being vacated by Tom O'Mara. Marcellus will face a September primary against opponents that include Chemung County legislator Christopher Friend and Town of Chemung Supervisor George Richter. Govt.

Locally produced film debuts at Glen Theater

Rocky Hollow Lodge, an independent movie produced by a Painted Post filmmaker and featuring Watkins Glen talent, debuted Thursday nilght at the Glen Theater. Features.

Left: Movie poster

Mecklenburg landmark goes tumbling down

The fire-charred remains of a Mecklenburg building that served over the years as a hotel, boarding room, nursing home and bar were leveled and buried Wednesday. Demolition.

Gathering at park celebrates Flag Day

The annual Watkins Glen Elks Lodge Flag Day Service was held Monday evening at Lafayette Park in Watkins Glen. Members of the local VFW post and area Scouts participated. People.

Our Schuyler Spring MVPs: Markley, Olafson

High school track standouts Joe Markley of Odessa-Montour and Shelby Olafson of Watkins Glen are The Odessa File Schuyler Spring MVPs. This is Olafson's third such honor, and Markley's first. Sports.

Sunny weather greets crowd at Relay for Life

The sun was shining as the Schuyler County Relay for Life got under way Friday evening, June 11th on the Watkins Glen High School athletic field. Opening speeches and a survivors' march started an evening of music, games, a celebration of cancer survivors, and a remembrance of loved ones lost. Relay.

Left: T-shirt design

Montour Falls parade: flags, trucks & bands

The 54th annual Montour Falls Grand Parade highlighted the final day of the 3-day Firemen's Festival, attracting marching bands, classic cars, color guards and trucks from 17 fire departments. For a story and photos, see Features.

Left: Color guard marches by

Schuyler Scholars feted; Fazzary delivers keynote

Schuyler County District Attorney Joseph Fazzary was the keynote speaker June 10th as 19 seniors from the Watkins Glen, Odessa-Montour and Bradford high schools were honored for finishing their careers in the top 10% of their class. Scholars.

Left: DA Joseph Fazzary

Racing Center given NASCAR vehicle

A NASCAR vehicle and archives from the Road Racing Drivers Club were donated June 10th to the International Motor Racing Research Center in Watkins Glen. Among those present: former racers Rusty Wallace (left) and Bobby Rahal. Sports.

They gathered at WGHS for a friend

Scores of students gathered in the Watkins Glen High School lobby early Tuesday morning, June 7, for a group photo. To find out why, see People.

Left: The scene in the lobby

School Board thanks 7 who are retiring

Seven Watkins School District employees retiring soon are honored by the School Board. Retiring.

Left: Teacher Kate LaMoreaux, left, and administrator Billie Bauman

Scott finishes 1st at Live Like Liz 5K Run

Cody Scott of Ithaca places 1st at the 5th annual Live Like Liz 5K Race/Walk Sunday in Watkins Glen -- an event that drew hundreds of participants. Race.

Left: Winner Cody Scott

Top Drawer 24 honored in ceremony at the park

Two-dozen high school student-athletes -- the 2010 Top Drawer 24 -- were honored Wednesday evening in a gathering at the Watkins Glen State Park pavilion. For a story and photos, click here.

Pruett, Rojas win again in Sahlen's 6-hour race

Two-time defending champions Scott Pruett and Memo Rojas won again Saturday in the Sahlen's 6 Hours of the Glen endurance race at Watkins Glen International. Sports.

Musician Baze spreads awareness of cancer

Elmira native Christine Baze, a cervical-cancer survivor, has taken her message of cancer awareness around the country -- and was in Watkins Glen recently for four appearances, culminating in one at the Village Marina. Features.

Left: Christine Baze

Local celebs scoop on behalf of Devon Shaw

Part of the fund-raising effort on behalf of the family of cancer-stricken WGHS freshman Devon Shaw was a Celebrity Scoop Thursday at the Great Escape Ice Cream Parlor in Watkins Glen, with proceeds going to Devon's family, courtesy of Great Escape owner Peter Honsberger. Among the scoopers (left) were Watkins Glen Mayor Judy Phillips and Watkins Glen Elementary School principal Rod Weeden. Scoop.

Senka taking over at Mane St. Hair Designs

Watkins Glen hair stylist Jeff Senka has moved to Mane Street Hair Designs in Odessa, and will be taking over the business from retiring owner Maria Eaton at the end of the month -- and renaming it. Business.

Left: Jeff Senka

Hurley Haywood joins Legends of the Glen

Racing legend Hurley Haywood -- a 7-time winner at The Glen -- was inducted Friday into the Legends of the Glen, a Hall of Fame of Watkins Glen drivers, executives and others influential in the history of the racetrack. The induction was announced at a ceremony in the WGI Media Center. Sports.

Left: Hurley Haywood during Friday's ceremony.

Winner won't be seeking re-election to Senate

State Senator George Winner (left) will not run for re-election to a 4th two-year term this fall. The Republican senator served in the Assembly for 26 years before succeeding John R. Kuhl in the Senate in 2005. Assemblymen Tom O'Mara and James Bacalles will reportedly square off in the GOP primary in September. Democrat Pam Mackesey is also seeking the Senate seat. Winner.

28 inducted into NHS at Watkins ceremony

The Watkins Glen High School chapter of the National Honor Society inducted 28 new members June 1st in a ceremony in the high school auditorium. Induction.

Left: Candles were lit as part of the ceremony.

WGES Read for Speed winners get WGI treat

Winners in the annual Watkins Glen Elementary School Read for Speed program -- held in conjunction with Watkins Glen International -- visited the track Thursday to meet with drivers Alex Gurney (left) and Jon Fogarty, to get a tour of the track and to eat some ice cream. Sports.

Left: Driver Alex Gurney, who competes this weekend at WGI.

Family of Friends campaign begins

The annual Schuyler Hospital Health Foundation Family of Friends campaign got under way Tuesday with a kickoff ceremony at the hospital. Speakers included Foundation Executive Director Steven Strathmann (left), hospital President Rick Stelzer and Campaign Chair Jim Howell. The goal of the fund drive is $150,000, to be used for enhanced women's health services for all ages.

He's walking across the country ... again

Jim Hickey (left) of New Jersey is trying to walk from coast to coast -- this is his 5th try -- to raise awareness of cancer and other diseases. Walk.

Rotary gets a deadlift demo, honors Diliberto

The Watkins-Montour Rotary Club was treated to a weightlifting demonstration of the deadlift May 27, and honored lift mentor Ralph Diliberto with a Paul Harris Fellowship. See People. For speech about Diliberto, click here.

Left: Ralph Diliberto

Confers to co-chair United Way drive

Montour Falls couple to lead 2010 Schuyler County drive, which has a goal of $128,000. Drive.

Left: Jeff and Linda Confer with son Cayden

Rose Smith is setting up shop in Montour

Hair stylist Rose Smith is opening her own business on Main Street in Montour Falls as her long-time place of employment, Mane Street Hair Designs in Odessa, changes hands. Business.

Left: Stylist Rose Smith

Governor Paterson visits Watkins Glen

Governor David Paterson was a guest of the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel Saturday night, May 22. A spokesman said the governor, in a low-keyed visit, was in the area for the graduation of his daughter Ashley from Ithaca College Sunday. The governor was staying on the hotel's second floor.

Left: Gov. David Paterson as he arrived at the hotel May 22 at about 11:20 p.m.

Flare Up!: Hands-on safety tips for the lake

Safe use of fire extinguishers and flares while boating was part of a hands-on instruction titled Flare Up! at Clute Park in Watkins Glen Saturday, May 22. Among the features: the firing of outdated flares. Features.

Glen Planning Board OKs vestibule

The Watkins Glen Planning Board gave its blessing May 19th to construction of a vestibule on the rear of the 313-315 N. Franklin St. building damaged by fire late last year. The building, owned by Jim Guild, is being renovated into commercial space and upscale apartments. Board.

Left: Board member John Vona

Hundreds turn out for Devon's Day benefit

Hundreds of adults and students were on hand at the Seneca Harbor Station Restaurant May 16 for Devon's Day -- a day on behalf of cancer-stricken Watkins Glen freshman Devon Shaw. People.

Left: Devon Shaw and his sister Kendra

O'Hearn reappointed by county Legislature

Schuyler County Administrator Tim O'Hearn was reappointed to his post for a four-year term May 10th at a meeting of the county Legislature. O'Hearn has been administrator since 2005. Government.

Left: Tim O'Hearn at May 10 meeting.

WGI sets Ferrari weekend in Sept.

Watkins Glen International is opening the annual FCA Art of Ferrari Challenge on Sept. 3-5 to the public, creating another event weekend. Ferrari.

There was plenty to see at the Green Grand Prix

Hybrid cars, various displays, discussions, a Discovery Channel crew, a solar car -- there was a lot to see Saturday at the 6th annual Green Grand Prix in Watkins Glen. Features.

Boy Scout Troop 2000 wins 2010 Steps Out

A final-week move from third place to first gives Boy Scout Troop 2000 the championship of the 4th annual Schuyler Steps Out walking competition. The Red Cross finished second, and WalMart was third. Features.

Down goes the Snack Shack

Workers demolished the old Snack Shack concession stand at Odessa-Montour Central School's Charles Martin Field May 4th as part of the district's facilities improvement project. A sturdier stand with rest rooms will be constructed in its place.

Watkins firefighters hold annual banquet

Awards, tributes and a buffet were the order of the evening May 1 at the Watkins Glen Fire Department's annual banquet. Features.

Left: Emcee Tom Carson

Argetsinger receives ARTS Council award

Joan Argetsinger of Montour Falls was honored April 30 when the S. Roberts Rose Arts Achievement Award was presented to her by the ARTS Council of the Southern Finger Lakes at its annual meeting in Corning. People.

Left: Joan Argetsinger

Fire guts home near Cayutaville

A fire possibly electrical in nature sent flames soaring from a home on Chapman Road near Cayutaville Friday night, April 30. Ten fire departments responded to the blaze, which gutted the structure. Firefighters were on site for seven hours. Fire.

Left: The fire as seen from a distance. (Photo by Kim Peak)

O-M retains Schuyler Envirothon title

Odessa-Montour High School is the Schuyler County Envirothon champion for the sixth straight year, and will compete in the state competition on June 2. Schools.

Wilson assumes presidency of League

Jim Wilson, Executive Director of the Arc of Schuyler, was handed the gavel April 27 as the new president of the Schuyler County League of Women Voters -- the first man to hold the office in the local League's 55-year history.The exchange from outgoing president Max Neal took place at the League's annual meeting at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel. For a story on the meeting, see Features.

Blinker light taken down in Odessa

State workers removed the blinker light on Rt. 224 in downtown Odessa April 27, a move that had been expected later in the spring. The Dept. of Transportation has said the light was outdated, and doesn't plan to replace it. Mayor Keith Pierce expressed concern publicly and to Assemblyman Tom O'Mara about the removal -- citing the safety the light was designed to provide.

Polar Bear Plunge draws crowd to lake

Dozens of people took turns leaping into the cold waters of Seneca Lake April 24 at the Tiki Bar's 7th annual Polar Bear Plunge, a fund-raiser for the Red Cross. Features.

Hannah Capozzi gives a final report

Rotary Exchange Student Hannah Capozzi, who spent part of the school year in Switzerland, is back home and reporting on her experience. She also told about it at Thursday's meeting of the Watkins-Montour Rotary Club (left). Hannah.

Watkins Village Board OKs 2010-11 budget

The Watkins Glen Village Board, following a public hearing at which one person spoke, adopted the 2010-11 village budget April 19th -- a spending plan with a 2.25% increase in the tax levy. Government.

Left: Village Board member William Smagner

SCOPED's Jones earns Small Business award

J. Kelsey Jones, the executive director of the Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development (SCOPED), has been named winner of a Financial Services Champion of the Year Award by the U.S. Small Business Administration's Syracuse District office. Business.

Left: Kelsey Jones

Renovated Montour House dedicated

A dedication of the recently renovated Montour House in Montour Falls was held April 20, with state, county and village officials-- and developer Bruce Nelson -- speaking to about 100 onlookers from the second-floor portico of the building. A reception followed, with guests touring the facility. Music for the event was provided by the Feel Good Jazz Band, a trio from Binghamton and Ithaca. Ceremony.

Firefighters say farewell to Chief

Visitation at the Odessa Village Hall and a memorial service at the high school highlighted the April 17 farewell to former Odessa Fire Chief Bobby Franklin, who died April 11 of cancer at the age of 46. People.

Center honors Milliken with 99th birthday party

Famed racer Bill Milliken was on hand April 17 as the Motor Racing Research Center in Watkins Glen honored him with a party marking his 99th birthday. Milliken.

Left: Bill Milliken

Odessa issues annual water quality report

The Village of Odessa updates its residents on their water supply with its annual Water Quality Report. Water

'12 Angry Jurors' ends its 2-day Watkins run

The Lake Country Players concluded a two-day, three-performance run of "Twelve Angry Jurors" April 17 in the Watkins Glen Elementary School auditorium. Features.

Left: Mike Truesdail portrays the juror who refuses to vote the defendant guilty.

Health commissioner visits Schuyler

New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Richard Daines visited Schuyler County April 7th as part of a 3-day, 6-county tour to check in with county Health Departments durng National Public Health Week. "I want to see what projects are working for them," he said. He made three stops in Schuyler, including a meeting with the Schuyler County Commission on Underage Drinking to discuss the teen alchohol problem, and presentation of a certificate to the Schuyler Health Department for its efforts in fighting Swine Flu. "It's been fun," he said of his first day on tour. "I'm getting good ideas."

Ribbon cut at Shared Services building

The opening of the Shared Services Facility at the corner of Decatur Street and Fairgrounds Lane in Watkins Glen was officially recognized April 7th with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the north end of the facility. The structure, which houses several county and village departments and dozens of vehicles, was cited by speakers such as County Administrator Tim O'Hearn and Watkins Glen Mayor Judy Phillips as an example of how municipalities can create a more efficient delivery of services by joining forces. The building was designed by Hunt Engineers, which had representatives on hand for the ceremony.

More from and about the Historical Society

Brian J. O'Donnell provides another in a series of articles stemming from the Schuyler County Historical Society, focusing on some historical facts. History.

Anglers turn out, but trout fail to follow suit

The first day of trout season drew anglers -- as usual -- to Catharine Creek April 1st, but they reported few trout catches. People.

Left: At Catharine Creek

Former State Senator Smith dies

Former New York State Senator William T. Smith of Big Flats -- a longtime farmer and staunch proponent of legislation that strengthened drunk-driving laws -- died Tuesday, March 30 at the age of 94. A funeral service was held on Saturday, April 3. Smith -- nicknamed "Cadillac" after protesting federal farm subsidies by using his subsidy to buy a Cadillac -- became a prime supporter of strong DWI laws after his daughter Judith Smith Kelemen was killed by a drunk driver in 1973. He served in the Senate from 1962-1986.

Photo in text: Senator Smith's Steuben County Hall of Fame photo

Reports sound cautionary notes on drilling

Ad Hoc Task Force reports at the Schuyler County Council of Governments meeting Jan. 27th urged caution -- and plenty of planning -- in preparation for the possible onslaught of Marcellus Shale drilling operations in the area. Government.

Health forces Micha to step down at BOCES

Greater Southern Tier BOCES Superintendent Anthony Micha has retired, forced out by health at the age of 63. Micha said there have been concerns about his health since heart surgery in October. "I love this job," he said, but he was leaving it two years early because it's "the best thing for BOCES and me." A former Waverly superintendent, Micha has been in education for 43 years. He took over at Schuyler-Chemung-Tioga BOCES in 2004, and continued in the leadership role when that group merged with Steuben-Allegany BOCES and became the Greater Southern Tier BOCES in 2006. An assistant superintendent, Horst Graefe, will oversee daily operations under interim superintendent Allen Bucyk, who heads up the Broome-Tioga BOCES.

Photo: Tony Micha at a recent Watkins-Montour Rotary Club meeting

Odessa issues its winter newsletter

The Village of Odessa brings its residents up to date on local happenings by issuing its Winter 2009-10 Newsletter. See Newsletter.

Program to keep tabs on young drivers

A new program designed to help parents keep tabs on their young-adult children's driving habits is being implemented by the Schuyler County Sheriff's Office. It is called STOPPED -- Sheriffs Telling Our Parents and Promoting Educated Drivers. Government.

Farewell to a friend

Joanne Mathers Fitch of Odessa died Dec. 6 after a long battle with cancer. Here, the editor says goodbye to a wonderful friend. Farewell.

Stephanie O'Brien is back with lifestyle column

Watkins Glen High School alum Stephanie O'Brien returns with her 11th installment in an ongoing series of columns that focuses on healthy lifestyle choices. Column.

Left: Stephanie O'Brien

A look at members of Schuyler Hall of Fame

A continuing look at the membership roll of the Schuyler County Hall of Fame, featuring the latest inductees. Hall of Fame.

Left: Schuyler Hall of Fame member Judge John Callanan