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

----------

Curly's Family Restaurant, Watkins Glen

Sponsoring this People page:

Curly's Family Restaurant, located on Route 14 near the P&C Plaza in Watkins Glen. Phone: 535-4383.

Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Website!! To link to the Curly's Family Restaurant website, you can click on the photo at left or click here.

SchuyLines has arrived

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

Obituary: Ahava Nordquist McKee

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Putnam Funeral Home & Crematory, Kingsland, Texas.

Ahava Maria Nordquist McKee

Age 90, of Burnet, Texas passed away on January 23, 2012. She was born to Andrew and Ethel (Webster) Nordquist on May 4, 1921 in Odessa, New York.

Ahava was born at home, weighing only 3 pounds. She was the third of five children in a home with strong Christian values. Raised in the country, she learned resourcefulness and frugality as well as a love of nature, all of which she passed on to her children.

She married Robert Lewis McKee on September 16, 1944. In 1948 they purchased a 100-acre farm (circa 1853) in Rock Stream, NY, where they raised their 11 children. They instilled in their family strong work ethics and Christian values which included daily Bible reading and prayer and regular church attendance.

In 1980, after Bob’s retirement, they began spending winters in Old Towne, FL. In 1997, after Bob’s death, she began spending winters in Texas with her daughters while still spending summers in New York State. She also traveled to other areas of the country to visit her children. In 2003, she made Texas her permanent home, living with her daughter, Rita, until January 2009, when she moved to Burnet with her daughter Phoebe.

She was a cheerful and adventurous person who enjoyed Bible reading, playing piano, singing, gardening, sewing, and playing Scrabble. She will be greatly missed.

Survivors include her children, Debbie (Daniel) Maynard of Chattanooga, TN, Rita McKee of San Antonio, TX, Tim McKee of Fletcher, NC., Phil (Dona) McKee of San Rafael, CA, Anna (Rick) Mori of Shady Cove, OR., Joel (Yunhee) McKee of Incheon, S. Korea, Phoebe (Russell) Morrison of Burnet, TX., Nat (Dinah) McKee of Alexandria, VA., and Jed McKee of Philadelphia, PA. Survivors also include 26 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren, a sister, Alethea Kolhonen, and a brother, Dean (Erma) Nordquist.

Ahava was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Robert Lewis McKee; daughters Ruth Frouman and Elizabeth McKee, brothers James and David Nordquist, and grandsons Brian Howell, Manoli Frouman and Daniel Frouman.

A memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Sunday January 29 at Hoover Valley Baptist Church. An online guest register and maps may be found at www.PutnamCares.com.

Memorials can be given in the name of Ahava to The Galilean Children’s Home at PO Box 880, Liberty, KY 42539, www.galileanhome.org or Scott & White Hospice, 200 W. Ollie St., Llano, TX. 78643, www.sw.org/hospice/hospice.

Cremation arrangements were entrusted to the Putnam Funeral Home & Crematory, 145 Texas Avenue, Kingsland, Texas 78639.

Obituary: Margaret L. Conway

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Margaret L. Conway

Age 88, died peacefully at Founders Pavilion in Corning on January 16, 2012.

Mrs. Conway was born on April 19, 1923, in Middle Village, Queens, New York, as Margaret Lillian Cosenza. She attended elementary school in Middle Village. After moving with her family to Garden City, she attended and graduated from Sewanhaka High School (Class of 1935). In December of 1941, shortly after the United States entered World War II following the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Mrs. Conway moved to Washington, D.C., to perform administrative support for the United States Navy. She returned to New York in the spring of 1942 to work for the Air Defense Command at Mitchel Field in Garden City, where she was employed throughout the war years. In 1948, she married Thomas F. Conway, and began raising a family after the birth of their first child in 1950.

The Conways owned a hardware store in Garden City from 1959 to 1968, and in 1966 they opened Admiral Travel Agency, which they operated until 1978. Starting that same year, Mrs. Conway began to manage the American Express Travel Agency in Garden City. During this time, she served as president of the Garden City Chamber of Commerce, was a member of the board of directors of the Guide Dog Foundation, and was an active member of several professional organizations, including Soroptimist International and the Long Island Center for Business and Professional Women. As part of her job, Mrs. Conway traveled extensively throughout the world, flying on the Concorde to Europe and visiting Japan, Taiwan, Panama, and numerous destinations in the United States. In 1983 she was promoted to the position of Director of Executive Travel Management Services, working in the American Express Headquarters in Manhattan until her retirement in 1991. During her tenure at American Express, she was inducted into the Travel Hall of Fame.

The Conways moved to Watkins Glen, New York in 1991 and opened the Seneca Lake Watch Bed and Breakfast. Mrs. Conway became active in the Watkins Glen Chamber of Commerce, the Finger Lakes Bed and Breakfast Association, and the League of Women Voters. Following the death of her husband in 1996, Mrs. Conway continued to operate Seneca Lake Watch by herself, welcoming countless visitors to the Finger Lakes region that she had come to love. She retired in 2000, and moved to Corning in 2005.

Mrs. Conway is survived by four children and ten grandchildren: Mary Plank of Charlottesville, Virginia, her husband Douglas, and their children Alexander, Nicholas, and Marissa; Thomas Conway, of Bedford, New York, and his children Christian, Thomas, Michelle, and Matthew; Michael Conway, of Massapequa, New York, his wife Maira, and their daughter Michaela; and George Conway, of Corning, New York, his wife Julie, and their children David and Benjamin.

A viewing will be held at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen on Friday, January 20, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, January 21, at 10:00 a.m., with interment following the service at Holy Cross Cemetery in Watkins Glen.

A “Candle of Remembrance” may be left for the family at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com.

Obituary: Ora Pike

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Ora Pike

Age 67, of Montour Falls, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, January 15, 2012.

She is survived by her loving husband of 45 years, Wendall; children Rose (Steven) Liszka of Watkins Glen, Mickey Pike of Rochester, Wayne (Therri) Pike of Wisconsin, Frederick Pike (Diane Pfleegor) of Rochester, and Roger Pike (Debra Pike) of Prattsburg; brothers-in-law Norman (Mary) Pike of Hornell, and Francis (Karen) Pike of Russell; special granddaughters, Jennifer and Clarissa Pike; 13 additional grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen, on Wednesday, Jan. 18 from 2-4 p.m., with a memorial service following at 4 p.m.

You may sign a guestbook online or “Light A Candle” in her memory in “Obituaries” at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com

Obituary: Frank G. Wood

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Frank G. Wood

Age 49, of Odessa, NY, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, January 15, 2012.

He is survived by his loving wife of 19 years, Teresa; beloved children, Kara, Frank A. and Kacie Wood, all at home; parents, Frank G. Wood, Sr. and wife Linda of Lynchburg, VA; his mother, Bonnie Covington of Trumansburg; two brothers, Floyd “Woody” (Patricia) Wood of VA, and Filip (Megan) Wood of VA; six sisters, Mishel Powell of VA, Stefani (David) Tucker of VA, Helena Childress of VA, Jesicalyn (Randy) Byars of VA, Meggin (Jason) Pitcher of Trumansburg, and Yvonne (Don) Price of VA; brothers-in-law, Tracey (Karen) Cole of Beaver Dams, and James Cole of Odessa; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Alex and Marjorie Cole of Watkins Glen; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen, on Thursday, Jan. 19 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. The funeral service will be held on Friday at 10 a.m. at the funeral home, Rev. Beverly Karr-Lyon officiating. Burial will be at the Union Cemetery of Hector in Burdett.

Frank worked at Borg-Warner of Ithaca for 29 years, and was most recently the Safety and Security Manager. Frank was a very devoted family man. His greatest pleasure in life was doing things with his children and being involved in every aspect of their lives. He was also a loving, compassionate husband who will be greatly missed. He was always there for us, and always will be forever and always. We love you.

Memorial donations may be made to the Odessa Fire Dept., 300 E Main St , Odessa, NY 14869; or Schuyler Ambulance, PO Box 2, Watkins Glen, NY 14891. You may sign a guestbook online or “Light A Candle” in his memory in “Obituaries” at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com

Obituary: Demetri Jacob Smith

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Demetri Jacob Smith

Infant son of Jonathan and Clara Smith of Rock Stream, NY, was brought into this world and departed on Wednesday, January 11, 2012 at Arnot-Ogden Medical Center.

He is also survived by his loving brother, Vladimir Smith; maternal grandfather, John Hutchens of Dundee; paternal grandparents, David and Anita Smith of Watkins Glen, and aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was predeceased by his maternal grandmother, Sarah Hutchens.

Though your time with us was brief, the love you brought into our lives will always be remembered.

A private graveside service was held at the Pleasant View Cemetery in Reading Cemetery. A “Candle of Remembrance” may be left for the family at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com.

Obituary: Winifred 'Winnie' Covert

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Winifred "Winnie" Covert

Age 76, of Trumansburg, NY, passed away at Cayuga Medical Center on January 9, 2012, surrounded by her loving and devoted husband of 53 years, Stanley, and her beloved son Daniel, daughter-in-law Shelly, Shelly's mother, Karen Thurnheer, and her beloved grandchildren Vanessa, Valerie and Ethan.

Winnie was born August 1, 1935, one of seven children, to Victor and Golda Switzer Rumsey. She is survived by her husband, Stanley; son, Daniel (Shelly); grandchildren, Vanessa, Valerie and Ethan; sister, Freda (Bill) Covert of DeRuyter; sisters-in-law, Joan Rumsey of Red Creek, Margaret Covert of Watkins Glen, and Angelina Covert of Burdett; brothers-in-law, William (Ann) Covert of Corning, Norman (Ruth) Covert of Burdett, Walter Watkins of Red Creek, and Jerry Chamberlin of Raeford, NC; and many uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

She had many close friends, and schoolmates from the Trumansburg Central School Class of 1953. Winnie retired from NCR Ithaca in 1999 with 36 years of service. She was a wonderful, giving, and caring person to all throughout her life. She enjoyed her many close Car Pride friends, working outside, keeping her home neat, and of course, shopping on the QVC Network. She especially enjoyed her grandchildren. Winnie fought a very courageous battle with cancer over the past year.

The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen; on Saturday, Jan. 14 from 12-2 p.m.; with a memorial service immediately following at 2:00 p.m. Interment will be at Union Cemetery, Burdett.

Memorial donations may be made to the Calvary Baptist Church, PO Box 413, Trumansburg, NY, 14886; or the American Cancer Society. You may sign a guestbook online or “Light A Candle” in her memory in “Obituaries” at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com

Nicholas Drake, Jennifer Hall engaged

Mr. and Mrs. Charles Drake of Rochester, NY are pleased to announce the engagement of their son, Nicholas Ryan Drake, to Jennifer Hall, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Hall of Louisville, Kentucky.

Currently, Jennifer is the fitness graduate assistant for the Department of Campus Recreation at the University of Mississippi and finishing up a Master’s of Science degree in Health Promotion. Prior to Ole Miss, she completed a Bachelors of Science degree in Education: Exercise Science & Psychology at the University of Kentucky. Jennifer was a 2005 graduate of Presentation Academy, Louisville, KY and has worked five summers for Wellspring Camps, Florida, a scientifically-based adolescent program for overweight teens. She recently began a full-time job as Program Director for Wellspring, Florida.

Nicholas joined the Drexel University staff in Philadelphia, PA, in June 2011 as the coordinator of Health, Fitness, and Wellness in Drexel's Recreation Center. He recently finished his second Master’s degree in Kinesiology and Health Promotion from the University of Kentucky. Prior to UK, he completed a Master’s of Education degree in Sport Administration from Xavier University, a Bachelor’s of Science degree in physical education from SUNY Cortland and an Associate’s degree from Corning Community College. Nicholas was a 2000 graduate of Watkins Glen High School, Watkins Glen, NY. In addition, he served as a staff sergeant in the Army Reserve and was deployed to Iraq in 2007-2008. While in Iraq he was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious service.

The couple is planning a spring 2013 wedding and will be residing in Philadelphia.

Obituary: Tomasine Fazzary Sacco

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by a member of the family.

Tomasine Fazzary Sacco

Age 92, of 495 Cayuta Ave, Waverly, NY and formerly of Watkins Glen, NY passed away Friday, December 16, 2011 at Elderwood Health Care, Waverly, NY.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Thursday, December 22 at St. James Catholic Church, Chemung St, Waverly, NY. Memorials may be made in Tomasine’s memory to St. James Church, 503 Clark St, Waverly, NY 14892 or St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, PO Box 289, Watkins Glen, NY 14891.

Tomasine was born January 16, 1919 in Watkins Glen, NY, the daughter of the late Antonio and Maria (Palamara) Fazzari. She is survived by her daughter, Lisa Sacco-Lawrence; a granddaughter, Amanda Nicole Lawrence of Lockwood, NY; a sister, Carmela Simiele of Watkins Glen, NY; brothers James (Marie) Fazzary of Orange City, Florida and Sam (Doris) Fazzary of Burdett, NY; sisters-in-law Nancy and Reda Fazzary of Watkins Glen, NY, Mary (Vince) Catarisano, and Vincenzia and Teresa Sacco of Waverly, NY; and several loving nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Tomasine was predeceased by her husband, Rosario (Roy) Sacco; siblings Michael (Angelina) Fazzari, Jennie (Joseph) LaFace, Andrea Fazzari, Mary (Louis) Perazzini, Frances (James) Peters, Dominick Fazzary, and Henry Fazzary; and brothers-in-law Medio Simiele, and Joseph, Leonard, Salvatore, Santo and Saverio Sacco.

Obituary: Charles A. Kennison, Jr.

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Charles A. Kennison, Jr.

Age 71, of Watkins Glen, passed away on December 30, 2011.

The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen, on Saturday, January 7, 2012, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., with a funeral service at the funeral home following at 2 p.m. Burial will be at Lakeview Cemetery.

Chuck is survived by his wife, Cherie; his children, Larry (Nancy) Kennison, William (Linda)
Kennison, Deborah Simpson, Robert Simpson Jr. (Tiffany), Kenneth (Danielle) Cummings, and Lowell “L.J.” Cummings Jr.; a step-mother, Lorraine Sheesley; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Richard (Barb) Sheesley, Nancy Boylan, Billy (Bobbie) Sheesley, John (Jackie) Sheesley, Steven
(Mary) Sheesley, and Terry Lynn (Eric) Herr; 20 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and many aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Chuck, known as the “Lil Ole Gunmaker,” raced the number 9x car for over 50 years on dirt tracks all across the country. He worked for 20 years at Ithaca Gun, and later at Mickey Marollo Racing Engines in Pine City, Stapleton Engines in Elmira, and the Painted Post Car Mart.

Memorial donations may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, 26 Broadway, 14th Floor, New York, NY 10004; or the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility, c/o Schuyler Health Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 828, Montour Falls, NY 14865.

You may “Light a Candle” of remembrance or sign a guestbook online in “Obituaries” at
www.Royce-Chedzoy.com.

Schuyler County Administrator Tim O'Hearn reaches into a barrel for the winning ticket. At left is Odessa Fire Chief Mike Tomassi.

Fire Department raffle raises $5,500

Pennsylvania man wins $9,000 cash in drawing

ODESSA, Dec. 24 -- A Pennsylvania man won $9,000 Friday night in a raffle drawing run by the Odessa Fire Department to raise funds for a new emergency ATV vehicle.

A $25 ticket purchased by Larry Capitanos of West Secane, Pa. -- outside of Philadelphia -- was drawn by Schuyler County Administrator Tim O'Hearn at a gathering of firefighters and friends at the fire hall.

Capitanos -- an electrician with Exelon Nuclear -- knew of the raffle through Odessa 2nd Assistant Fire Chief Mike Hines, who is employed by G.E. Nuclear. The two men have worked together in Pennsylvania, where G.E. contracts to do maintenance work on Exelon equipment.

Capitanos had a choice of taking $9,000 cash or $11,000 in equipment from Ithaca Recreation Sports. The ticket selected was one of 716 sold by the department, which earned $5,500 toward the purchase of an ATV to be used in emergency situations -- such as in ice rescues and at brush fires.

Chief Mike Tomassi said the funds raised -- although not the total amount needed -- will enable the department to start shopping for a Polaris ATV. The balance is available in the department budget, he said.

Hines phoned Capitanos right after the drawing, asking him: "Are you ready for Christmas? You just won $9,000."

Capitanos, at first dubious, was finally convinced, saying "Wow, that's great." He then chose the cash over the $11,000 in merchandise.

Hines (a New York Yankees fan) then told Capitanos (a Philadelphia Phillies fan): "Maybe you can donate a little to the Phillies so they can maybe get somewhere this year."

Tomassi said he wanted "to thank everyone who bought tickets and helped the department."

Photos in text:

Top: A Polaris ATV was on display at the fire hall during the drawing. It is similar to one the fire department will be purchasing -- although theirs will have a bigger engine, a second seat, and all-weather tracks in place of wheels.

Bottom: 2nd Assistant Chief Mike Hines talks to raffle winner Larry Capitanos.

Obituary: Kay Tobey

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Kay Wellman Tobey

Age 58, of Odessa, NY, passed away peacefully at home after an extended illness.

She is survived by her husband, James Tobey; a son, Justin (Crystal) Tobey of Brooktondale; brothers Craig (Marge) Wellman of King Ferry and Loren Wellman of Montour Falls; brother-in-law Gerald Tobey of Watkins Glen; granddaughter Mya Tobey; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, John and Clara Wellman; brothers Lloyd Wellman and Leonard Adams; and sister and brother-in-law, Arlene and Don Fisher.

A celebration of her life will be held at the Odessa Wesleyan Church, 304 Church St. in Odessa,
at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December, 31.

She enjoyed gardening, babysitting and children, dogs, camping, crafts, sewing and her home.

Memorial donations may be made to her church; to Southern Tier Hospice, 11751 E Corning Rd., Corning, NY 14830; or to the ALS Assoc. of Upstate New York, 890 Seventh North Street, Ste. 108, Liverpool, NY 13088.

You may sign a guestbook or “Light A Candle” in her memory online at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com. Arrangements are by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Obituary: William J. Franzese

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Haughey-Wood Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

William J. Franzese

William J. Franzese was born in Montour Falls, NY on March 25, 1931, the son of the late Dominick and Carmella Romeo Franzese.

Bill, as he was known, served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict and was honorably discharged in March 1954. He married the love of his life, Carol, on May 22, 1954. He worked with his father, uncle, cousin and four brothers at the family-owned construction company D&T Franzese Bros. Inc. He and Carol later owned and operated the Longhouse Lodge Motel and the Longhouse Manor until his retirement on 12/31/01. His son Jim took over and owns these properties now.

Bill loved to travel and particularly liked to cruise. He and Carol loved to dance and, in fact, met on a dance floor in 1953. He built a total of four homes during their long married life and was always happiest when he was working on their home and grounds.

He was a member of the Board of Trustees for Schuyler Hospital for nine years. He was also very active with the Squires Jr. Drum and Bugle Corps. All of his children were in the Squires, and the members of the corps have kept in touch throughout the years.

The loss of his daughter, Sandy, in 1987 was the saddest moment in his life. He was also predeceased by his parents and four brothers, Nick, Jim, Joe, and Richie. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Carol; son James Franzese and Mary Wilson; and daughters Jeannette Franzese, Mindy and her husband, Andy Catron, and nephew/son, David and his wife Lori DeHond. His grandchildren are Greg and Colleen Franzese, Jennifer Franzese, Thomas Lloyd, Amanda Lloyd, Michayla Catron, Liana Catron and Dennis DeHond. He is also survived by three great grandchildren, Tyler Franzese, Benjamin DeHond and Sophia Franzese. Nephews Bruce and Brian DeHond were always an intregal part of his family. He is survived by his brother Dominick and sister-in-law Midge Franzese, sisters Jane Franzese and Sr. Margaret Franzese, MPF, and sister-in-law Vera Franzese. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins, and godchildren Julie Franzese-Bonzo, David Franzese, Mark Quirk and Joseph Franzese III.

Friends and family may call from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, December 22 at the Haughey-Wood Funeral Home, Watkins Glen, NY. His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, December 23 at 10 a.m. at St. Mary's of the Lake Church, with Rev. Paul Bonacci, Celebrant. Bill was a member of St. Mary’s from birth.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Watkins Glen Public Library, 610 S. Decatur St., Watkins Glen, NY 14891 endowed fund for the Career Center founded in honor of his daughter, Sandra Franzese Black; to Southern Tier Hospice, 11751 East Corning Rd., Corning, NY 14830, or to St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, PO Box 282, Watkins Glen, NY 14891.

Friends and family may sign the guestbook at www.haughey-woodfuneralhome.com

Obituary: Mark H. Burchell

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Mark H. Burchell

Age 54, of Hector, NY passed away unexpectedly at home on Monday, December 19, 2011.

A celebration of his life will be held at the Hector Presbyterian Church on Monday, Dec. 26 at 10:00 a.m.

He is survived by his children, Kenneth Burchell, Kylie (Michael) Rodrigues, and Mark Burchell, all of Hector; his mother, Elsie Burchell of Florida; brothers and baby sister, Ronald Burchell of Bennettsburg, Kevin Burchell of Florida, Suzanne (Robert) Raiford of Florida, and Chris Burchell of Burdett; a grandson, Austin Hazlitt; his favorite buddy, Bandit; best friends Robert Johnson and Jerry Damiani and their families; and several nieces and nephews, all of Hector. He was predeceased by his father, Kenneth Z. Burchell, and a sister, Cassie Burchell.

Mark lived and worked in the Hector area as a well-known carpenter. He enjoyed hunting the Hector woods and fishing on Seneca Lake. He loved making others laugh and spending time with family and friends.

You may sign a guestbook or “Light A Candle” in his memory online at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com.

Obituary: Kenneth L. Larson

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Kenneth L. “The Great Lard” Larson

Age 48, of Watkins Glen, passed away at home after an extended illness on Friday, December 16, 2011.

The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen, on Tuesday, Dec. 20 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday at 11 a.m. Burial will immediately follow at Lakeview Cemetery, with a public reception to follow at the Mechanics Club in Montour Falls.

He is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, Susan D. Larson; his children, USN Petty Officer Kristofer Larson, AWR3 of Florida, and Kendra and Katherine Larson, still at home; his parents, Ralph “Butch” and Susan A. Larson; sisters Pamela (Frank) Switzer of Muncie, Indiana, and Bonnie Larson (and Ed McManus) of Watkins Glen; brothers Carl (Becky) Larson of Tupper
Lake, NY, and Erik (Debbie) Larson of Jupiter, FL; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Jerry and Helen Gregory of Watkins Glen; a brother-in-law, Alan Gregory of Watkins Glen; and 11 nieces and nephews.

Those wishing to remember Ken may consider a donation in his memory to a charity of one’s choice, or to the GLM Memorial Soccer Fund, 700 N. Decatur St., Watkins Glen, NY 14891, or The Ronald McDonald Foundation, Charitable Accounting, One Kroc Drive, Oak Brook, IL 60523.

You may sign a guestbook or “Light A Candle” online at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com.

NY Farm Bureau honors Ken Bell

Special to The Odessa File

BINGHAMTON, Dec. 16 -- Ken Bell -- a longtime leader in the New York Farm Bureau's membership efforts -- was recently honored by the Farm Bureau for his distinguished service to agriculture. The award was presented at the organization's annual State Meeting in Binghamton.

“This is one of the most prestigious awards that New York Farm Bureau can bestow, “said Dean Norton, president of the Farm Bureau. “I am proud to recognize the contributions that Ken has made to our organization and to New York agriculture.”

Also honored was Mark Twentyman of Suffolk County, an agriculture assessment supervisor in the Office of Real Property Tax Services.

Bell, says a press release from the Farm Bureau, "has long been recognized as a leader and a pioneer in New York Farm Bureau’s membership efforts. His service to the agricultural community began more than 40 years ago when he was hired as a field representative for the Hudson Valley, and he later transitioned to a position in the Southern Tier.

"Eventually Ken left Farm Bureau to start a successful greenhouse and delivery service, but his dedication to the organization never waned. A member of the Schuyler County Farm Bureau for decades, he also served as state membership chair, where he truly found his calling.

"As a relentless advocate for membership growth, Ken Bell used his position as chairman to educate and motivate county membership chairs and inspire them to redouble their own efforts. He believed strongly in building membership through personal relationships and continual outreach."

Added Norton: “Ken Bell is widely recognized in Farm Bureau as a true innovator. Through his membership efforts, Ken has laid the groundwork for our organization for countless years to come.”

Photo in text: Ken Bell (right) accepts award from New York Farm Bureau President Dean Norton. (Photo provided)

Obituary: Shirley A. Champion

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Shirley A. Champion

Age 73, of Burdett, NY, passed away at her “second home” on December 13, 2011, with her family at her side, at the home of her daughter in Alpine.

Born on May 20, 1938, she was the youngest daughter of the late Robert L. Usher Sr. and Anna Bush Usher. She married Arthur B. Champion, who predeceased her in May 1995. Also predeceasing her were a sister, Mary Frith, and brothers Robert, William and George Usher.

Shirley was a lifetime resident of Burdett, working at Westinghouse, several vineyards in the Hector area and then Cornell University, retiring in 2000. Shirley loved to fish, hunt, play cards and spend time with her grandchildren. She was a beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother to her family and was always there for anyone in need. Shirley will be truly missed by her friends and family.

Surviving her are two daughters, Lorraine Evans (Nick Lupo) of Alpine and Sharon Champion (Paul Knapp) of Ithaca; grandchildren Andrew Champion (Olivia Miller), Eric Wheaton and Peter (PJ) Knapp; great-grandchildren Andrew J. Champion Jr. (CJ) and Kristopher Champion; step-grandchildren Sylvia, Lexi and Juli; a brother, John Usher (Christine); a sister, Pauline Goelz (Jim); sisters-in-law Paulina Usher and Gay Usher; and a very special sister-in-law and friend, Regina Usher. Also several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Calling hours will be on Saturday, Dec 17 at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen, from 12-2pm; with a funeral service immediately following at 2pm. Burial will be at Hector Union Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to the Burdett Fire Dept., P.O. Box 238, Burdett, NY 14818, or the Schuyler County Volunteer Ambulance Association, P.O. Box 2, Watkins Glen, NY 14891.

You may sign a guestbook or “Light A Candle”online at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com.

Obituary: Lena S. Salvatore

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Haughey-Wood Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Lena S. Salvatore

Age 94, formerly of Watkins Glen and Arizona, passed away at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester on Saturday, December 10, 2011.

Lena was born in Watkins Glen, NY on August 25, 1917, the daughter of the late Antonio and Augusta Pazzaglini Mosconi. She was a communicant of St. Mary’s of the Lake Church and was one of the founding members of the St. Mary’s Guild. Lena worked for over 40 years at the International Salt Company in Watkins Glen and had wintered in Arizona with her husband, C. Daniel Salvatore. She had been residing at the Brentlin Woods Assisted Living Home, where she easily made many friends. Lena enjoyed and treasured her great grandchildren.

Lena is survived by her son, Dan Salvatore of Morris, Illinois; her grandchildren, Danette (David) Porter of Scottsville, NY, Kara (John) Lagas of Illinois, and Carina Salvatore of Arizona; her great grandchildren, Patrick Warren, Anne Porter, Cory Lagas, and John Lagas; as well as many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Lena was predeceased by her husband and best friend, C. Daniel Salvatore; her brother, Alfred Mosconi; and her sisters, Josephine Salvatore and Queenie Porccelli.

Lena’s family will receive friends and relatives from 10 a.m. to 12 noon on Wednesday, December 14 at the “Link” at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, 905 Decatur St., Watkins Glen, NY, where a Mass celebrating her life will be held at noon.

Friends and family may sign the guestbook at www.haughey-woodfuneralhome.com

Schuyler County Judge J.C. Argetsinger, right, applauds after Law Clerk William Elkins (left) was given a Certificate of Appreciation for his many years of service.

'There is a time to judge .... and there is a time to retire'

WATKINS GLEN, Dec. 13 -- Friends, colleagues and admirers turned out by the (many) dozens Monday afternoon to honor retiring Schuyler County Judge J.C. Argetsinger and his longtime Law Clerk, William C. Elkins.

The two are retiring at the end of the year, and Argetsinger -- the County Judge for 14 years and the District Attorney before that --said that in planning the party, he had modeled it on one thrown by Judge John P. Callanan upon his retirement in the 1990s. "He knew how to do it right," said Argetsinger, who recently reached the mandatory retirement age of 70. Elkins is approaching 89.

About 45 minutes into the two-hour celebration, Argetsinger -- microphone in hand -- told a crowd of more than 100 people gathered in the County Courtroom that the judges who had preceded him in office "had such a tremendous impact on my life." He pointed to William N. Ellison, present at Monday's party, and to Callanan, whose wife was on hand.

"And Bill Elkins here," the judge said, pointing to Elkins, seated nearby, "has been calling this room home for a long time. He has given 60 years of service to Schuyler County, and 24 as Law Clerk" -- a role that is essentially the judge's counsel.

Elkins, Argetsinger pointed out, was "a true war hero" before settling in Schuyler County. "He was a combat officer in World War II, and was shot out of a fourth-floor window in Germany by a tank." Elkins sustained significant wounds, but recovered to pursue a career in the law "and fortunately he came here," the judge said, adding:

"It's a wonderful time we've had here. There has been a time for sorrow -- we've seen that -- and a time for joy, like here today.

"There is a time to judge," he added, "and there is a time to retire."

Elkins spoke to the crowd, too, saying that Schuyler County "is the best county in the world. I first saw this county on a troop transport from Fort Niagara to Fort Bragg in 1943. I was impressed by its beauty, not knowing that six years later I would get my first job here. It was with Henry Valent, who got me started in the practice of law.

"Since grade school," he said, "I have been so impressed with the philosophy of the United States, with its Constitution." It is the rights the nation espouses, he added, that "it has been my job to protect."

He thanked Judge Argetsinger, Judge Callanan "and the many lawyers with whom I worked. And thanks for making me an adopted child of Schuyler County."

District Administrative Judge Bob Mulvey of Tompkins County presented framed Certificates of Appreciation to Argetsinger, Elkins and retiring Lindy Tobey, secretary to Argetsinger and Elkins for the past seven years.

"The state," Mulvey told the honorees, tongue in cheek, "is having financial trouble, so it will need the frames back."

Photos in text:

Top: Schuyler County Judge J.C. Argetsinger, left, watches as secretary Linda Tobey studies her Certificate of Appreciation.

Middle: Judge Argetsinger.

Bottom: Law Clerk William Elkins.

Left: Montour Falls Mayor John King was on hand. Right: Incoming Schuyler County Judge Dennis Morris was, too.

Schuyler County Legislator Stewart Field, left, and Max Neal chat with J.C. Argetsinger.

Left: Schuyler County Assistant District Attorney Josh Navone. Right: Montour Falls Village Justice Don Spaccio, left, talks with Dr. James Norton at the retirement party.

Old signs recall the campaigns of J.C. Argetsinger for District Attorney and County Judge.

Obituary: Ralph L. Dean

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Ralph L. Dean

Age 80, of Burdett, NY, passed away on December 9, 2011.

The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen, on Tuesday, Dec. 13 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. A Fireman’s Memorial Service will be conducted at 7:30 p.m. The funeral service will be held at the funeral home at 10:00 a.m Wednesday, Dec. 14, Rev. Richard Evans officiating. Burial will follow at the Union Cemetery of Hector.

Ralph was born in Reynoldsville on Nov. 24, 1931, the son of Earl and Lillian Dean. He worked 39 years at BorgWarner Automotive of Ithaca. Ralph also served for 56 years in the Burdett Volunteer Fire Department, and was current president.

He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Sue Dean; children Melissa (Kyle) Hubbel of Alto, MI and Brian (Amy) Dean of Fuquay Varina, NC; 6 grandchildren, Ashley, Bradley, Alissa and Morgan Dean, and Sarah and Brooke Hubbel; a great-grandson, Noah Hill; a brother, Joel (Kathleen) Dean; sisters Eloise Velie, Beverly Davis, Dorothy (Robert) Royce, Patricia Mahoney, Lois (James) Drake, and Betty (Vincent) Lake; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Ruth, Margaret, and Lorrain Dean, Geta (Pierre) Biever, Bruce (Sandra) Gunning, and Clair Gunning (Peggy States); and many nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his parents; brothers Lloyd, Donald, Wallace and John Dean; and a sister, Phyllis Tuttle.

Memorial donations may be made to the Burdett Fire Dept., P.O. Box 238, Burdett, NY 14818 or to a charity of one’s choice. You may “Light a Candle” of remembrance or sign a guestbook online in “Obituaries” at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com.

Obituary: John D. Wilkinson, III

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Nunn and Harper Funeral Home, Rome, NY.

John D. Wilkinson, III

John Daniel Wilkinson, III, of Watkins Glen, New York, passed away November 21, 2011.

He was born August 18, 1935 in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, the son of John D. and Alberta Quinn Wilkinson, Jr. He was a graduate of Cortland High School in Cortland, NY and attended Ithaca College, Elmira College, and Syracuse University. He was a former owner of the Western Auto Store in Trumansburg, NY.

He was retired as a Chemist in Quality Control from the Akzo Noble Salt Company, Watkins Glen, where he worked for over 35 years. He was instrumental in the workings of the credit union at that company, formerly known as International Salt.

John proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army in the Signal Corps from 1959-1963. He was a member of the St. Mary's of the Lake Church, and served on several committees, addressing building needs, care of the cemetery, and guidance regarding the Boy Scout Troop. He was a member of the choir at St. Mary's and a past member of the First Presbyterian Church and choir. He was a past member of the Watkins Glen Elks and Peach Orchard Chorus.

John is survived by two sisters, Sandra D. Richards, Cincinnati, Ohio, and Dr. Deborah Q. Wilkinson, New Hartford, NY; one niece, Brittany Q. Richards; and two nephews, Dr. Christopher W. Tjoa and Aaron E. Tjoa (Godson), and several cousins.

John, recalled by many as Uncle John, was known for his infectious smile and saying “Have a super day!” He is lovingly remembered by his family and many wonderful friends.

Memorial Services will be announced in the spring. Burial will be at Glenwood Cemetery, Watkins Glen. Donations in his name can be directed to the Schuyler County Office for the Aging or the Bath Veteran's Administration Outpatient Program.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Nunn and Harper Funeral Home, Inc., 418 N. George St., Rome, NY.

Obituary: Jared McCabe Palmer

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Haughey Funeral Home, Corning.

Jared McCabe Palmer

Age 34, of 117 Etruscan Lane E., Corning, NY, died Monday, December 5, 2011 at his home.

He was born February 15, 1977 in Elmira, NY, the son of Jacquelin Standish. A lifetime resident of the area, he attended Corning High School and was a member of the Watkins Glen High School Class of 1995. He was also a graduate of Corning Community College, SUNY Brockport and SUNY Cortland.

Jared was a Health & Fitness Instructor / Personal Trainer affiliated with CSCA, and also a certified kettle-bell instructor. He loved health, fitness and nutrition, loved teaching and was a recipient of the Purple Belt in Brazilian Ju Jitsu. He also fought MMA throughout the country – holding many titles.

Surviving him are his mother, Jacquelin Standish, Corning, NY; his maternal grandmother, Janet Standish of Horseheads, NY; sisters Amy Lynn Palmer of Corning, NY, Erin Maureen Palmer of Ocala, FL, Julia Marie Palmer of Corning, NY and Miranda Leigh Austin of New Paltz, NY; nephews Christopher Jared Disimile and Kyle James Horton; a niece, Izabella Lissette Pena; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Friends may call at the Haughey Funeral Home, 216 E. First St., Corning, NY, on Thursday, December 8 from 4 to 7 p.m., with a funeral service to follow at 7 p.m.

Hospital welcomes Chief Nursing Officer

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Dec. 7 -- Schuyler Hospital has a new Chief Nursing Officer: Jann Marks, MBA, BSN, RN, NEA, BC.

In addition to holding a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Marks holds a Master of Business Administration and Finance. She is also a Nurse Executive Administrator, Advanced, and Board Certified.

Working for the last year as a global Nurse Consultant, Marks was previously Chief Nursing Officer at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, and Vice President / Chief Nursing Officer at Adventist Hinsdale Hospital in Hinsdale, Illinois.

She is a published writer, an experienced speaker and presenter, has earned numerous awards for her work, and is a member of the American Organization of Nurse Executives, among other organizations.

Marks is a native of the Syracuse, NY, area.

Obituary: Jeanette Voorheis Thorpe

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Jeanette Voorheis Thorpe

Age 65, of Alpine, NY, went home to be with our Lord after an extensive illness, in her home on Thursday, December 1, 2011.

Jeanette was born in Montour Falls, the daughter of Frederick and June Voorheis. Through the Grace of God she touched many lives working as an Administrator at Cornell University for over 30 years, and through her vision of God's work.

She was predeceased by her parents; and husband, Larry R. Thorpe. She is survived by her loving sons, Daniel and David Thorpe of Alpine; daughters, Karen (Duane) Bivona of Texas, and Cody Kimball-Cook of Ithaca; a sister, MaryJo and husband Thomas Thorp of Hector (and their children, Carine and husband Robert Kenyon, Fredrick Thorp, Heather and husband Brian Sheeler, Sarah and husband Christopher Macnamara, and Benjamin and wife Christina Thorp); sisters-in-law, Ellen and husband Mick McClain, and Joyce Thorpe, both of Watkins Glen; a brother-in-law, Eugene Thorpe of Florida; three grandchildren, Ryan Thorpe, and Jessica and Taylor Bivona; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and her A.I.M. Angels!!

The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen, on Thursday, Dec. 8th from 4 p.m.-6 p.m., with a funeral service following at 6 p.m. Burial will be at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Odessa at the convenience of the family.

Memorial donations may be made to the Humane Society of Schuyler County, 2386 CR 10 Alpine, NY 14805. You may “Light a Candle” of remembrance or sign a guestbook online in “Obituaries” at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com.

Local woman receives statewide award

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Nov. 27 -- Eileen Uribe, owner of Seneca Valley Books & Paper Collectibles, Watkins Glen, was recently presented a statewide award recognizing her as a successful entrepreneur with a disability.

Mrs. Uribe has received services through the Office of Adult Career and Continuing Education Services-Vocational Rehabilitation (ACCES-VR), including the installation of ramps, a gravel walkway, and the purchase of a laptop, all of which enabled her to expand her business.

Mrs. Uribe, who with her husband George also repairs antique furniture and makes one-of-a-kind items, is a featured artist at the Franklin Street Gallery and Gift Shop in Watkins Glen. She has also been a dealer at the Seneca Market.

State Senator Tom O'Mara and Assemblyman Chris Friend attended the award ceremony, held at the Radisson Hotel Corning. It was coordinated by representatives from ACCES-VR (formerly VESID), which works closely with employers to assist them in recruiting qualified employees. During the past year the Southern Tier ACCES-VR office, which serves nine counties, placed more than 700 individuals with disabilities into employment.

Also honored at the ceremony were the Elmira EOP Head Start Program, Chemung County Transit and the Radisson Hotel Corning, recognizing their efforts to recruit and accommodate employees with disabilities. It was held in observation of National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

Obituary: Rudolph 'Rudy' Hoppe

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Rudolph "Rudy" Hoppe

Age 69, of Hector, NY, who lived an amazing and full life, went to join his family on November 24, 2011.

Rudy's life will be celebrated and remembered on Monday, Nov. 28 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen, NY. Burial will be at Holy Cross Cemetery on Tuesday, Nov. 29 at 10 a.m.

He is survived by his son, Jesse Hoppe of Scranton, PA; a daughter, Sarah (Luke) Farno, and grandson Jacob Rudolph of Tipton, IN; a brother-in-law, Frank (Patti) of Los Angeles, CA; and a sister-in-law, Laura Hoppe of Waverly, NY. He was preceded in death by many family and friends, including his wife and brother. He will be missed every day by his family, friends and garage but will continue on in our hearts and memories forever.

You may extend condolences to the family online at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com.

Obituary: Marian L. Scaptura

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Marian L. Scaptura

Age 95, of Watkins Glen, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 21, 2011.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, November 26, at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, Watkins Glen. The family will receive friends and relatives at the church prior to the Mass from 9:00-9:30 a.m. A reception will be held at the St. Mary’s Center following funeral services.

Marian was predeceased by her husband, James F. Scaptura, and seven brothers and sisters. She is survived by her daughter, Lela Potter of Hector; three grandchildren, James (Linda) Potter, Richard (AnnMarie) Potter, and Mary Jo (Mike) Gates; and eight great-grandchildren.

Memorial donations may be made to the Seneca View “Family of Friends” Fund, c/o Schuyler Hospital Health Foundation, PO Box 828, Montour Falls, NY 14865; or the Humane Society of Schuyler County, 2386 CR 10, Alpine, NY 14805.

You may “Light a Candle” of remembrance or sign a guestbook online in “Obituaries” at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com. Arrangements are by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Jim and Bonnie Howell, foreground, and Jim and Barbara Halpin, background, were among many November Splendor diners who also danced to the music of the New York Rockin' Revue.

November Splendor offers food, dance, and some news

WATKINS GLEN, Nov. 20 -- The annual November Splendor dinner-dance presented by the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary and the Schuyler Health Foundation Saturday night in the Harbor Hotel ballroom offered plenty of food, an array of prizes, and some news of note.

Health Foundation Executive Director Bill Little announced as dinner was being served that the Family of Friends Campaign -- designed this year to finance renovation of the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility -- had reached its announced goal of $200,000, and was pressing onward and upward toward a needed $400,000.

That latter sum was announced months ago when the hospital unveiled a plan to do more in the renovation than originally planned -- including an upgrade of all residential rooms instead of just shared living facilities. The project -- now underway -- will also include a new kitchen and the renovation of other areas of the facility. Co-chairs of the campaign are Max Neal and Ken Wilson, seated together at Saturday's gala. Honorary chairs are Dr. James W. and Rita T. Carmony.

Neal has termed the Seneca View project "simply the right thing to do for the people of this community." Little called it "near and dear to the hearts of many." Reaching the initial $200,000 goal, he added, was "testament" to the generosity "of the people in this room and many who couldn't be with us here tonight."

The November Splendor gala -- a fund-raiser for the Seneca View project which attracted about 225 diners -- featured hors d'oeuvres and a cash bar at 6 p.m., a buffet dinner at 7, then dance music by the New York Rockin' Revue shortly after 8, and raffle drawings at 10.

Raffle prizes included a large-screen TV package with DVD player and Wii; dinner or a cocktail party by Bower Catering; a wine rack with New York state wines; a Gaffer District Weekend on Market Street in Corning; a Lucky Lottery Tree; an overnight stay at the Harbor Hotel, and a Kindle. The grand prize was a Weekend Escape to Las Vegas valued at $2,000.

The New York Rockin' Revue band has performed at the past two New Years Eves at the Harbor Hotel, and is scheduled again this year and next. The group also played at a party there earlier this year upon the retirement of Schuyler Hospital President/CEO Rick Stelzer. His successor, Andy Manzer, was among Saturday night's November Splendor diners.

The band is comprised of Dan Horning on guitar, fiddle and vocals; his wife, Becky Horning, on bass, guitar and vocals; Michael Trig Lehmann on drums and vocals; and a man simply known as Budman on keyboards and vocals.

Their alternately driving beats and soft mood music repeatedly attracted enough dancers to fill the ballroom's dance floor.

Sponsors for the evening included Jerlando's Ristorante & Pizza Co., Hunt Engineers, Architects and Surveyors, the Manning & Napier Group of Companies, Bower's Catering and Bower Farms, the Harbor Hotel, Keegan Associates, The Bonadio Group of CPAs, Consultants & More, The Dundee Observer and Watkins Review & Express, the Elmira Savings Bank, and the Welliver firm.

Photos in text:

Top: Becky Horning, vocalist for the New York Rockin' Revue, made her way around the dining tables of the ballroom, guitar in hand, during the group's opening number.

Second: Max Neal and Ken Wilson, co-chairs of the Family of Friends campaign. The initial campaign goal of $200,000 has been met, but the project -- renovation of the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility -- has been expanded to $400,000.

Third: Watkins Glen Mayor Mark Swinnerton and wife Margaret were among Saturday night's diners at the November Splendor event.

Bottom: A dance couple execute a polished move to the music of the New York Rockin' Revue.

The New York Rockin' Revue band poses in the lobby near the Harbor Hotel ballroom before taking the stage. From left: Budman, Becky Horning, Michael Trig Lehmann and Dan Horning.

Left: One of the raffle prizes, a rack full of New York State wines. Center: Rockin' Revue band member Dan Horning. Right: Schuyler Health Foundation Executive Director Bill Little.

Left: Mike and Rebekah LaMoreaux. Right: A couple dances to the Rockin' Revue music.

Couples dance to some slow music at November Splendor.

Obituary: Ruthanna L. Secord

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Ruthanna L. Secord

Age 81, of Burdett, NY, left the arms of her family to be with her family in Heaven on Wednesday, November 16, 2011.

The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen, on Sunday, Nov. 20 from 1-3 p.m., with a funeral service following at 3 p.m. The burial and committal service will be held Monday at 1 p.m. at the Union Cemetery of Hector in Burdett.

She is survived by her loving family: her husband of 57 years, Marvin R. Secord; children, Robert (Anne) Secord of Logan, Patricia (Eric) Bower of Burdett, and Susan (Lynn) Jensen of Burdett; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Dorothy and Virginia Lott, James Bardeen, Carol Carnahan, Howard (Diane) Secord, Harold (Frances) Secord, and Barbara (Bob) Smith; seven grandchildren; and two great-granddaughters. She was predeceased by her parents, Edward A. and Gladys M. Lott; son Craig; and brothers and sisters, Edward C. “Bud” Lott, Clifford A. “Kip” Lott, Freda M. Blanchard, and Leda F. Bardeen.

Ruthanna was born in Burdett, NY, the daughter of Edward and Gladys Lott. She graduated from the Watkins Glen Central School, Class of 1948. She retired from the NYS Fire Academy food service department in Montour Falls. Ruthanna was a charter member of the Logan Community Center, Past President of the V-L-H Fire Company Auxiliary, and former secretary of the Hector Grazing Association. She was the loyal bookkeeper for the family business, Marvin Secord’s Garage.

Ruthanna was “big sister,” fiercely protective of her brothers and sisters, and remained so throughout her life. This love and devotion continued with her own children and grandchildren.

She was an avid flower gardener, a bird lover and could be spotted on her John Deere lawnmower, any day of the week for hours at a time.

Memorial donations may be made to the V-L-H Fire Company, 5736 Rt. 414, Hector, NY 14841. You may sign a guestbook or view her memorial online at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com.

Obituary: Aletha E. Dilmore

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Aletha E. Dilmore

Age 81, of Watkins Glen and formerly of Beaver Dams and Reading Center, passed away at home surrounded by her loving family on Monday, November 14, 2011.

The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen on Friday, November 18 from 6-8 p.m., with a memorial service following at 8 p.m. The burial will be held at the convenience of the family at Oldfield Cemetery in Hornby, NY.

Aletha was born in Corning, NY, the daughter of O. Dean and Theresa (Perry) Hall. Aletha worked at Schuyler Hospital for 20 years until her retirement in 1996. She was predeceased by her parents; also husband Arthur L. Dilmore in 1969; and son Harold in 1964.

She is survived by her children, Lynda Dilmore of Florida, Karen (Dexter) Hines of Beaver Dams, Patricia Harnas of Watkins Glen, Debby (Peter) Cigalotti of Florida, and Arthur (Misty) Dilmore of Florida; eight grandchildren, Shanin Pfeiffer, JoLynn Dickinson, Sean (Vanessa) Harnas, Eric Cigalotti, Brandon Cigalotti, Cody Dilmore, Jeremiah (Lauren) Dilmore and Benjamin Dilmore; nine great-grandchildren, Denise Pfeiffer, Leslie Sills, Gabriella Dickinson, Michael Dickinson, Oscar Dilmore, Archer Dilmore, Jadyn Harnas, Gracie Harnas and Lilliana Harnas; and one great-granddaughter, Natalisa Pfeiffer.

Memorial donations may be made to Southern Tier Hospice, 11751 East Corning Road, Corning, NY 14830. You may sign a guestbook, “Light A Candle” or express condolences to the family online at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com.

Seasoned Seniors slate meal for Nov. 18

By BONNIE SEELEY

ODESSA, Nov. 13 -- The Seasoned Seniors of Schuyler County will meet at noon on Friday, Nov. 18 in the Fellowship Hall of the Odessa Baptist Church for a celebration of Thanksgiving.

Anyone wishing further information may contact Bonnie Seeley at 607-594-2588 or 607-426-6025.

“I’ll fix the turkey, and y’all bring the fixin’s for a magnificent holiday dinner,” said Seeley. "We’re sure you’ll enjoy the dinner and our musical guest, Martha Kress."

The Seasoned Seniors is a loosely-structured organization which has been meeting for close to 16 years in one form or another. It has evolved over the years into a tightly-knit group of loving and caring friends from throughout the Schuyler County Community and beyond.

Established in February 1996 by Seeley, a retired OMCS teacher, and former Odessa Baptist Church Pastor Randall Stone, its origin stemmed from a desire to include residents of the then-new Sydney Place Apartments into the Odessa community.

November and December have always been reserved for sharing a holiday meal. Additionally, for Thanksgiving sharing, participants bring canned goods and other non-perishable items to share with Schuyler Outreach. December sharing takes the form of Seniors decorating a small Christmas tree with (often hand-made) hats, scarves and mittens to be distributed by Seneca Santa to needy youngsters throughout Schuyler County.

Jim Guild, left, talks to visitors at the Open House at his apartments on Franklin Street.

Evening features trio of Open Houses

SCHUYLER COUNTY, Nov. 12 -- Open houses were the order of the evening Friday in Watkins Glen and Montour Falls.

Jim Guild hosted an open house debuting his four new apartments on North Franklin Street, in the Royce-Cole Building near Fourth Street. The luxury apartments drew a steady stream of area residents.

Up the street, at the Four Dragons Martial Arts center, an open house was held to help raise funds for the Wounded Warrior Project. Patrons watched videos about the project -- a national movement to help our wounded soldiers -- and snacked on cookies.

In Montour Falls, the planned Child Care Center in the former Rural-Urban Center -- My Place -- A Play and Learning Center -- presented an open house that offered parents a chance to get a look at the facility well in advance of its planned January opening.

Photo in text: Visitors at the Four Dragons Martial Arts facility on Franklin Street.

Parents check out the in-progress construction at the Child Care Center in the former Rural-Urban Center in Montour Falls.

Obituary: George L. Conklin

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

George L. Conklin

Age 88, of Rock Stream, NY, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, November 9, 2011.

The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen, on Saturday, November 12, from 2-4 p.m., with a funeral service following at 4 p.m.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Greeba (Hays) Conklin; sons and daughters-in-law, Gary and Alice Conklin of Reading Center, and Gregory and Joetta Conklin of Rock Stream; and grandchildren Jessica, Jennifer, Jaclyn and Andrew. He was predeceased by his parents, Claude and Bertha Conklin, and by sisters Claudia Switzer and Ella Andrews.

He served during World War II, from 1942-1945, and served in the Battle of Normandy, receiving the European-African-Middle Eastern Service Medal and WW II Victory Medal.

George worked for 26 years as Superintendent of Buildings and Grounds for Watkins Glen Central School, from 1959-1985.

Memorial donations may be made to the Humane Society of Schuyler County, 2386 CR 10, Alpine, NY 14805; the Reading Community Church, PO Box 23, Reading Center, NY 14876; or the Watkins Glen Booster Club, PO Box 267, Watkins Glen, NY 14891.

You may sign a guestbook, “Light A Candle” or express condolences to the family online at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com.

Obituary: William Cherock, Jr.

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Haughey-Wood Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

William Cherock, Jr.

Age 88, of Perry Street, Watkins Glen, NY passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, November 5, 2011.

Bill was born on August 30, 1923 in Watkins Glen, NY, the son of the late William and Rose Cherock, Sr. Bill served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1946. He worked for 43 years at International Salt Co. in Watkins Glen and for 10 years at Watkins Glen Golf Club. He also worked as a part-time bartender for many local businesses. He was a member of the VFW, American Legion, and the Watkins Glen Elks Lodge #1546. He enjoyed golfing, gardening and being outdoors, and loved to spend time with his family.

Bill is survived by his wife of 65 years, Mary Rose (Frank) Cherock; his children, Peter (Andrea) Cherock and Patti (Dennis) Macy; his grandchildren, Ryan, Ambry (Frank) Giattino, Alexis Cherock, and Amanda Cherock; great grandchildren, his Little Princess Isabella Cherock, Landon Giattino, and Connor Cherock; his brother, John (Grace) Cherock; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Bill was predeceased by his brothers, Frank, Joby, and Nick Cherock; and his sister, Paula Kutz.

A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at 9 am Friday, Nov. 11 at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, 905 Decatur St., Watkins Glen with Father Paul Bonacci officiating.

Memorials may be made to the Southern Tier Hospice, 11751 East Corning Rd., Corning, NY 14830.

Friends and family may sign the guestbook at www.haughey-woodfuneralhome.com

Obituary: Robert Louis Herzig

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Robert Louis Herzig

Age 80, of Watkins Glen, NY died October 31, 2011 after a long, courageous battle with cancer.

Bob was born on July 25, 1931 in New Bremen, NY to Samuel Lewis and Magdalena Weir Herzig. He graduated from Lowville Academy, Lowville, NY in 1949, attended Syracuse University and graduated from Central City Business Institute. He married Nancy Niebergall on July 4, 1952 in Fort Smith, Arkansas and would have celebrated 60 years of marriage in July.

The family resided until 1967 in Syracuse, where he was a sales manager for a northern New York memorial company before moving to Watkins Glen, NY, where Bob purchased the George E. Hoare Memorial Co., Inc. and remained active in his job as President until his illness in 2010.

He served in the U.S. Army for two years during the Korean Conflict. During his years in Watkins Glen, Bob served on the Planning Board of St. Mary's of the Lake Cemetery Association, was a former member of the Watkins Glen Planning Board, and was appointed chairman of the Senior Citizens Apartment Planning Committee, which resulted in the construction of the Jefferson Village Senior Citizens Apartments. He was a longstanding member of the Chamber of Commerce.

Bob, a devoted son, husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, was predeceased by his parents and nephew, Stephen Allen Shedd. He is survived by his wife, Nancy; children, Katherine Susan and James F. Specchio, and David John and Sharon Isley Herzig; grandchildren, Jane and Daniel Campany, Sarah Emily Specchio, John Robert Herzig and Stephanie (Herzig) and Nicholas Johnson; and two great grandchildren, Emily Elizabeth and Anthony Charles Campany. He is also survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Katherine (Herzig) and Owen E. Shedd, and two nephews, Peter L. and Paul O. Shedd.

Family and friends are invited to the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. Fourth Street, Watkins Glen, NY, on Thursday, Nov. 3, where calling hours will be held from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held at the conclusion of calling hours.

Memorials may be made to the Watkins Glen Library, Watkins Glen Fire Company, or Schuyler Ambulance.

The Herzig family would like to offer special thanks to Dr. Dayakar Reddy, Dr. Robert Lambert, Falck Cancer Center and many others, for their care and friendship during Bob's long illness.

To share a memory, "Light A Candle" or send the family a condolence, please visit www.Royce-Chedzoy.com

Obituary: Alfred J. Perry

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Alfred J. Perry

Age 82, of Watkins Glen, went to be with his Lord on October 31, 2011.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, Nov. 4 from 5-7 p.m. at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen. A funeral service will be held Saturday at 11:00 a.m. at the Bradford Baptist Church, Bradford, NY, followed by burial in the Bradford Cemetery.

He is survived by his loving wife of almost 64 years, Pauline (Fink) Perry; daughters and sons-in-law, Janet and James Saunders of Hornell, and Judi and Don Paris of Oviedo, FL; a sister, Grace Ameigh; brothers Albert Perry, Charles (June) Perry, Robert (Lillian) Perry, Edward (Alice) Perry, and Lawrence (Cora) Perry; 7 grandchildren; and 27 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents; and by sisters Celia Bowdin and Doris Pipes.

Alfred James Perry was born in Tyrone, NY on January 23, 1929 at home. He was the oldest son of nine children to parents Raymond and Mildred Perry. Alfred farmed his entire adult life on Kelly Hill Road and worked for more than 40 years until his retirement from Dresser-Rand in Painted Post.

Memorials may be made to the Bradford Baptist Church, 2788 Yawger Hill Rd., Bradford, NY 14818.

To share a memory, "Light A Candle" or send the family a condolence, please visit www.Royce-Chedzoy.com

Hospital gathers 1st and last babies

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Oct. 30 -- With Schuyler Hospital’s Obstetrics Unit, Stork’s Landing, officially closing on Oct. 31, the hospital staff has delivered its last scheduled baby.

Dominick James Spina was born Oct. 27 to Steven and Crystal Spina. Dominick is the couple’s fourth boy, weighing in at 7 lbs. 9 oz., and 20” long, with lots of dark brown hair. Dominick’s mom, Crystal, is Activities Aide in the hospital’s Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility, and got her wish that her baby would arrive before Stork’s Landing closed. The couple’s other three boys were also born at Stork’s Landing.

The Spinas recently gathered with the first baby to be born at Schuyler Hospital, when the facility opened its present location in 1972 – Amy DeRaiche, and her mom, Jean Swinnerton, both of whom work as nurses in Schuyler Hospital’s Surgical Department.

Photo in text: From left, Crystal and Dominick Spina, Amy DeRaiche, and Jean Swinnerton. (Photo provided)

Obituary: Marjorie S. Lynch

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by a family member

Marjorie S. Lynch

Age 90, of Watkins Glen, NY passed away peacefully on Friday, October 14, 2011, surrounded by her loving family.

Marge was born on April 12, 1921 in Sullivanville, NY, the daughter of the late Charles and Frances Beardsley Shafer. She graduated from Horseheads High School at the age of 16. After graduating from cosmetology school, she opened her own beauty salon in Montour Falls, NY where she met and married her beloved husband, Milton (Butch) Lynch. They were married on January 28, 1943.

Marge lived in Montour Falls most of her adult life where she and Butch raised their three children and happily spent every summer at the family cottage on Seneca Lake. In 1989, they moved permanently to the lake residence. In the fall of 2010, Marge moved to Jefferson Village Apartments in Watkins Glen, NY, where she quickly made many new friends. She was an active member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church.

Her life has been devoted to loving and caring for her family. She was overjoyed at the birth of each child, grandchild and great grandchild and gave freely of her time to care for and love each and every one of them. Her legacy of nurturing, loving and giving will live on through all who had the gift of knowing her.

Marge was predeceased by her spouse of 62 years, Butch Lynch, and by her siblings, Maude Turner and Francis (Pete) Shafer. She is survived by her children, Jacalyn (Richard) Marshall, Roger Lynch, and Rebecca (James) Guild; her grandchildren; Michelle (Mark) Simiele, Joseph Lynch, James (Ally) Guild, Erin Guild and Travis (Wioletta) Marshall; her great grandchildren; Alexis Gonzalez, Mariah Gonzalez, Christopher Simiele, Havana Guild and Broderick (Brody) Guild; her sister, Carolyn Congdon; her special nurse, Vallerie Franzese-Lynch, and her many nieces and nephews.

Friends are invited to attend a graveside service for Mrs. Lynch on Tuesday, October 25 at 11:30 a.m. in the Montour Cemetery (enter through third entrance). The Rev. Jane Winters will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Food Bank of the Southern Tier or to the Humane Society of Schuyler County. Arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY.

Obituary: Larry Bond

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Larry Bond

Age 53, of Hector, NY passed away unexpectedly on Friday, October 21, 2011.

The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen, on Wednesday, Oct. 26 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 1 p.m. Burial will be at Hector Presbyterian Cemetery.

He was predeceased by his mother, Barbara Bond Miller; a sister, Patricia Bond; a brother, Bruce Bond; brother-in-law Larry Caslin, and sister-in-law Lisa Bond. He is survived by his parents, George and Beverly Bond; brothers and sisters, Linda (Charles) Knapp, Tim Bond (Kathleen Winslow), Susan Caslin, Charles Bond, George (Rita) Bond, Debra (Skip) Opdyke, Craig Bond (David Trimble), Viola (Paul) Woodworth, and Leslie (Scott) Crane; step-brothers and step-sisters, Barbara Corribeau, Penny Mapes, and Wendy, Arthur, Kevin and Martin Pierce; a sister-in-law, Angela Bond; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins, and close friend Annie Walker.

Larry worked for many years at the Glen Animal Hospital in Watkins Glen.

Those wishing may consider a memorial donation to the Humane Society of Schuyler County, 2386 CR 10, Alpine, NY 14805 or to a charity of one’s choice. You may sign a guestbook online or view his memorial at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com.

Obituary: Rita Ann Remetta

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Rita Ann Remetta

Age 87, formally of Dunmore/Scranton/Clarks Summit, PA and, Port Richey, Florida, passed away at the Montgomery Family Care Home in Odessa on October 19, 2011.

Born in Dunmore, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late Joseph P. and Anna Voytek. Her husband of fifty years, Major General John J. Remetta, passed away March 2, 1992.

Rita moved to Cayuta, New York to be with her daughter Rita Tague Carmony (James W.) in 1996. She also has a daughter Carolyn Ann Flores (Lee) in Trinity Florida; grandchildren Steffanie Tague Trumino (Michael), William F. Tague Jr.( Serafina), Kristin Vencevich (Rob), Ryan Flynn (Nicole), Tara Flynn, and Alycia Leavitt; great grandchildren William F. Tague III and Syria Franscea Tague, Jenna Cane and Evan Robert Vencevich, and Sara Grace Trumino; and step great-grandchildren Derek, Dakota and Alexis. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Marion Remetta Durdach (William) and Sylvia Remetta (the late Joseph), and by several nieces and nephews.

Rita was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She took great pride in her family, her home, and her gardens. She was active in the Catholic churches in Florida and Dunmore. She loved the Florida sunshine but always had a soft spot in her heart for the changing seasons of the north. Rita and John would make several trips between the North and the South every year. Rita was a classy dresser and had many outfits for every temperature change!

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 25 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary's of the Lake Church in Watkins Glen, NY.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Seneca View “Family of Friends” Fund, c/o Schuyler Hospital Health Foundation, PO Box 828, Montour Falls, NY 14865.

You may “Light A Candle” or sign a guestbook online in “Obituaries” for the family at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com. Arrangements are with the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Obituary: Elwyn L. Voorhees, Jr.

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Elwyn L. Voorhees, Jr.

Age 61, of Elmira and formerly of Bennettsburg, NY, passed away October 19, 2011.

The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen on Monday, Oct. 24 from 12-2 p.m. A funeral service will be held there at 2 p.m., with burial to follow at Hector Union Cemetery.

Elwyn is survived by his nephew and niece, Byran and Cindy Voorhees of Watkins Glen. He was predeceased by both parents, Elwyn Sr. and Mary Voorhees, and brother Norman Voorhees.

He formerly worked for the construction union in Elmira.

You may sign a guestbook or "Light A Candle" online for the family at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com

Sparky the Fire Dog was led around the fire station by firefighter Brent Miller. Sparky -- a national figure who teaches about fire safety -- was a hit with young Open House visitors.

Open House promotes fire prevention

WATKINS GLEN, Oct. 13 -- The Watkins Glen Fire Department held its annual Open House Wednesday night, an event that coincides with Fire Prevention Week.

Scores of area residents, many with children, attended the event, held throughout the fire station. Informational displays, demonstrations and firetruck rides were provided, along with free food.

A smoke trailer brought in by the West Elmira department taught kids and adults how to react if they awaken in the middle of the night to a fire in the home. Elsewhere, kids could spray a burning container fueled by gas; when they hit the proper sensors, the fire would die.

Firefighter Charlie Scaptura was demonstating rescue equipment used in extricating people from elevated locales. Nearby, kids were rolling on a mat on the floor, practicing the Stop, Drop and Roll technique a person can use in case his or her clothing catches fire.

Sparky the Fire Dog was wandering around, greeting visitors. The Watkins Glen Police Department had a table promoting Halloween safety, while the Schuyler County Sheriff's Department was on hand producing cards for kids to carry as part of Operation Safe Child.

There was also a table where interested visitors could submit applications for fire department membership.

Photos in text:

Top: Firefighter Charlie Scaptura demonstrates a rappelling rescue technique.

Bottom: A youngster, assisted by a firefighter, hoses down a "burning building"-- a wooden model with painted windows that fell away when struck by the water.

A child practices the Stop, Drop and Roll technique on a mat at the fire department.

The department's newest truck, a pumper delivered a couple of weeks ago.

Obituary: Salvatore Chicone

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Salvatore Chicone (Subby)

Age 89, died Sunday, October 9, 2011 at Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility.

The family will receive friends and relatives on Tuesday, Oct. 11 from 6-9 p.m. at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Wednesday at St. Mary’s of the Lake Catholic Church, Decatur Street, Watkins Glen, with The Rev. Paul Bonacci as celebrant. Burial will be at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Salvatore was born on November 26, 1921 to Carmello and Domenica Ciccone and was a lifelong resident of Watkins Glen. Growing up on Magee Street in Watkins Glen (Little Italy) shaped his core values and the faith-filled life that he cherished. Love of family, hard work and respect for his fellow man were paramount.

He enlisted in the Army before his high school graduation to serve his country in World War II. He became part of the 1st Infantry Division of the Big Red One. He was engaged in three campaigns during his four years in WWII: Oran, North Africa as part of the “Torch” Invasion, “Operation Husky” in Sicily, and D-Day at Omaha Beach in Normandy, France. Throughout his tour of duty Salvatore was awarded several medals, including a Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, Bronze Star, Silver Star and a sharpshooter pin. Nineteen days before the war ended, he was wounded with shrapnel from an artillery shell and recuperated in a military hospital in England.

After returning home, Salvatore married Millie Rondinaro, and started a construction business with his brother, Joseph. His son, David, joined the business in 1971 and his grandson, Vincent in 2002 as a cabinetmaker. Chicone Builders/Chicone Cabinet Makers continued to have three generations present every day until February 2009, when Sal suffered a stroke. Sal also accomplished his dream of earning a college degree. He then taught Industrial Arts and enjoyed being called to substitute-teach throughout the Elmira district.

He is survived by his children, Douglas & Deborah DePuy of Montour Falls and David & Jennifer Chicone of Watkins Glen; three grandchildren, Seth DePuy of Charlottesville, VA, Vincent & Sarah Chicone of Montour Falls, NY, and Andrew & Susan Chicone of Fort Myers, FL; great-granddaughters Ella Louise and Loretta Mae Chicone of Montour Falls, NY, and Lucy Sophia Chicone of Fort Myers, FL ; “Sal’s Gal,” Virginia Eaton and her family; a sister, Jenny Ciaravino of Vestal, NY; many nieces and nephews, and many great nieces and great nephews. This was a life overflowing with family and friends.

He is predeceased by his loving wife, Millie; sisters Francina Scaramuzzino, Rose Holmes, Antoinette Catalfamo, and Nancy Chicone; and brothers Angel, Andrew, Rocco, and Joseph Chicone.

Salvatore was a member of St. Mary’s of the Lake Catholic Church and also attended Burdett Methodist Church. He was a Rotarian and received the Paul Harris Award and the Chamber of Commerce’s “Business Man of the Year Award.”

In lieu of flowers, please kindly consider a donation in his memory to the 2011 Family of Friends Campaign, c/o Schuyler Health Foundation, Inc., 401 West Main St., P.O. Box 828, Montour Falls, NY 14865.

The family gratefully acknowledges Seneca View Nursing Facility that lovingly embraced and cared for Sal for the last 2½ years. You may view his memorial or express condolences to the Family online at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com.

Watkins Glen School Superintendent Tom Phillips, left, and Schuyler County District Attorney Joe Fazzary -- a candidate for Schuyler County Judge in the Nov. 8 general election -- wear the remnants of a pie-eating contest at Saturday's Falls Harvest Festival in downtown Montour Falls. (Photo by Emily Grimmke)

Now ... some pie-eating photos

MONTOUR FALLS, Oct. 10 -- The 5th annual Falls Harvest Festival in downtown Montour Falls drew a large crowd Saturday (see story below), and among the draws was the annual pie-eating contest.

There were several contests during the day, with the primary event coming late in the afternoon and featuring various county, school and village officials.

Competing were Watkins Glen School Superintendent Tom Phillips, Schuyler County District Attorney (and County Judge candidate) Joe Fazzary, County Legislator Phil Barnes, Town of Dix Councilman Scott Yaw, County Administrator Tim O'Hearn, Watkins Glen Mayor Mark Swinnerton, Watkins Glen village trustee Scott Gibson, and Montour Falls Mayor John King.

The winners, according to a panel of judges, were Yaw and Gibson. But that mattered little compared to the fun it all generated, evident in the faces of spectators near the action.

Photo in text: Schuyler County Administrator Tim O'Hearn. (Photo by Emily Grimmke)

Falls Harvest Festival pie-eating contestants (and contest winners) Scott Yaw (left) and Scott Gibson. (Photos by Emily Grimmke)

Members of The Crooked Lake Fiddle Club graced the entertainment stage.

Sunny skies greet Falls Harvest Festival

MONTOUR FALLS, Oct. 9 -- The fifth annual Falls Harvest Festival was greeted with sunshine and unseasonable warmth Saturday -- a perfect day for a family outing.

The festival -- along Main Street in Montour Falls -- offered something for everyone, from goats and alpacas for the kids to see, to vendor stands and demonstration booths and a chainsaw-carving tent, to a car show.

There were contests, one of the more popular being the scarecrow contest. Prizes were available for winners in different classes. Among those judging the contest was Dennis Morris, candidate for Schuyler County Judge.

There were the annual pie-eating contests, and musical entertainment, and information booths. The booths were run by various organizations, such as the Humane Society of Schuyler County and the Schuyler County Historical Society.

Music was provided in the parking lot near the Mechanics Club by the Odessa-Montour Central School Chorus, then The Crooked Lake Fiddlers, and then Joe Crookston with the BlueBird Jubilee.

There were also songs being sung in front of the Montour House by William Christoffels, accompanied on piano by his wife Donna. They were promoting The Old Havana Courthouse Theater, which recently concluded its inaugural, summerlong run of melodramas on the second floor of the Village Hall. They are planning a second summer run in 2012.

There was warmth on the Main Street, and the smell of varied foods, and the sound of music and of camaraderie that comes with a pleasant, shared experience.

To cap off the day, a fireworks display after sunset dotted the darkened sky above the nearby Shequagah Falls.

Photos in text:

Top: Mark Watson demonstrates how to carve a wood stump into an animal figure.

Bottom: A display of pumpkins caught the attention of this young girl.

A car show was held on the west end of Main Street.

Left: Kids were entertained in various ways at the festival. Right: A popular venue for children was an inflatable slide.

Left: An alpaca pen attracted a steady stream of children. Right: William Christoffels, accompanied on piano by his wife Donna, sings in front of the Montour House.

Ron Havens, one of the Scarecrow Contest entrants, poses with his creation.

Obituary: Florence Thurston Coon

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Florence Thurston Coon

Age 96, a lifelong resident of Beaver Dams, NY, died peacefully on October 7, 2011.

“Torncie” was born to Frank and Grace Thurston on August 15, 1915, the youngest of five children, the others being: Kenneth, Clifford, Keith, and her beloved sister Grace Mary. She married her husband, C. Edward Coon, in 1938 and they were married 71 years before his death in 2010.

She is survived by three children and their spouses, Gary (Rahno ) Coon of NC, Linda (Charles ) Austin of MA, and Amy (James) Gee of Beaver Dams; grandchildren Pamela Snyder, Lisa Coole, Amy Sheppard, Paul Ruocco, Jennifer Reinhardt, Holly Gee, Danielle Austin, and Anya Malnoske; 14 great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

She was a graduate of Northside High School, Class of 1938. Torncie loved gardening, painting, camping, traveling, bowling, music and dancing. She and Ed could be found, up until a few years ago, dancing at outdoor summer concerts at Lafayette Park in Watkins Glen. Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her family, for which her family is forever grateful.

Friends and family are invited to calling hours at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen, on Monday, Oct. 10 from 3-6 p.m. In honor of Mrs. Coon’s wishes, committal at Beaver Dams Cemetery will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity. The family wishes to thank the staff at Bethany Village as well as Southern Tier Hospice for their compassionate care and support.

You may sign a guestbook or express condolences online at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com.

Obituary: Pauline C. Powers

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Elmira Star-Gazette.

Pauline (Polly) C. Powers

Age 71, of Burdett, died unexpectedly on October 1, 2011 at the Presque Isle, Maine hospital.

She was born July 23, 1940, in Presque Isle, Maine, the daughter of Thomas and Evelyn (Trombley) Powers. In her early 20s, Polly was the youngest division manager for Sears Roebuck for all of New England at the time, before moving to New York. She owned and operated Pauline's Fireside Antiques, and had been employed at the Rambling Brook Inn and Big Johnson's Sport Bar for several years. Polly was a 25-year member of the Women's Barber Shop Chorus, a 15-year member of the Burdett Community Players, and was a longtime member of the Royal Order of Moose Lodge Chapter 1401, Montour Falls.

She is survived by three sons, Don Nilson (Deb) of Mooresville, NC, and Randy Nilson (Catherine) and Adam Thorpe (Valerie), all of Burdett, NY; daughters Taina Nilson (Dana) of Montour Falls and Peggy Sue Thorpe (David) of Ithaca, NY; a brother, Thomas Powers, and a sister, Jeanne Powers, both of Presque Isle, ME; grandchildren Angela Collins, Taelor Blaha, Ashley Nilson, Kyle Bailey, Chance Van Cleef and Olivia Budzak; 4 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

For Polly, the community she lived in was her family as well. She was a vibrant, spirited, and loving woman who was always eager to meet new people and share stories with old friends. She would light up a room with her smile and laughter. She will be greatly missed.

A celebration of life and a time of remembrance will be held Tuesday, October 11 from 6-8 p.m. at the Moose Lodge, Chapter 1401, 2096 State Route 14, Montour Falls. Donations in her memory may be made to the Moose Lodge or the Dale and Christoper Powers Scholarship Fund, care of Northern Maine Community College, 33 Edgemont Drive, Presque Isle, ME 04769. Online condolences may be made at www.duncan-graves.com

Obituary: James Paradiso

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

James "Ratsie" Paradiso

James "Ratsie" Paradiso died at home surrounded by family on September 30, 2011. He was 75 years old.

Did you know Ratsie? If you met him you wouldn't forget him. He was a unique individual, for sure. A native and lifelong resident of Watkins Glen, he served in the Army before receiving a degree in electrical engineering from Alfred College. He worked briefly for Shepard Niles before life took him in another direction.

In 1963 he assumed responsibility for the family restaurant after his father fell ill. A successful businessman, he was the owner and operator of Paradiso’s Restaurant for 34 years, catering to locals, tourists, and the occasional race-car driver. Upon entering retirement, he embraced newfound opportunities, resuming gardening, volunteering for local organizations, and bartering with businesses to keep Watkins Glen's Adopt-a-Highway program thriving.

One of his greatest pleasures came from his participation in the region’s pool-playing community. He was a skilled shooter, having learned the sport at Shang’s Pool Hall as a youth, and was well known in the area, competing in many tournaments, some as far away as Las Vegas.

Though his preference for socializing was limited, over the years he was a member of several local clubs, including the Elks, Moose, Redman, American Legion, Mechanics Club and the VFW.

Jim lived life on his own terms; there was no way around that. A man of few words, he had much to say, infusing everything with his dry wit, humor, and unique view of the world. He was a seeker of knowledge, evidenced by the stacks of books, papers and clipped articles on his kitchen table. If you were one of the lucky ones, that information made it to you in some unusual and unexpected way, with a spirited debate not far behind.

Jim was a generous soul, and what one might describe as a "zealot" in the "reduce, reuse, recycle" movement. Jim's health declined rapidly in the past few years and he was the fortunate recipient of exceptional support from many people who cared for him greatly, including his sister Jo Pat Wright, who selflessly gave of her medical knowledge, time, patience and love; his sister Mary Cook, his son Greg, his daughter Olivia, his lifelong friend and ex-wife, Liz, and his care providers, Anna Snyder, Jesse Parish, and Connie Rekczis.

Having moved beyond his physical being, we envision him engaged in an animated reunion with his much loved family who eagerly awaited his arrival -- his parents Ratsie and Angie, his sister Cliss, and his children Jimmy and Lisa.

Jim is survived by his children Greg (Cathy) Paradiso of Parkton, MD, Anne (Charles Baah) Paradiso of Burlington, VT, Julia (John Davis) Paradiso of Burlington, VT and Olivia Paradiso of Watkins Glen. He is also survived by his brothers Paul and Bob, and his sisters Mary (David) Cook and Jo Pat (Jack) Wright. "Papa" had ten grandchildren -- Caitlin, Angelo, Anna, Gianni, Gabriel, Juliana, Sam, Eva, Theo and Sofia -- and likely will be remembered as a jokester, somewhat eccentric, and probably a bit grumpy; as Jim would have said, “a curmudgeon.”

At his request there will be no funeral or service. Family and friends are invited to a life celebration at the former location of Paradiso's Restaurant in Watkins Glen (now Bleachers Sports Bar and Grill) from 5-10 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 6.

As a pragmatist, Jim would see no value in flowers. If you would like to remember him, he has suggested donations to the Schuyler County Ambulance Association and the Watkins Glen Police Benevolent Association. And when the next opportunity presents itself, we ask you to grab a Coors Light and raise a short glass in his memory. We sure will miss you, Jim -- until we meet again.

You may express condolences to the family online in "Obituaries" at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com. Arrangements are by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Members of the Watkins-Montour Lions at the Strong Kids/Safe Kids event were, from left: President Jim Swinnerton, Brian O'Donnell, Bob Mizzoni, Sight Committee Chair Gloria Brubaker, Emily Grimmke, and Mark Swinnerton. (Photo provided)

Lions provide sight screenings for kids

WATKINS GLEN, Sept. 28 -- Members of the Watkins-Montour Lions Club -- using one of the Lions District computerized 20-E2 cameras -- performed 34 eye screenings at the Sept. 24th Strong Kids/Safe Kids event in Clute Park.

Screenings continued the following Tuesday at Schuyler Head Start, where 81 pre-school-aged children were screened and 12 were referred for further evaluation by a vision specialist. According to a club spokesman, the Lions Club is dedicated to assisting with the cost of the exams and glasses for those families who demonstrate need.

The Lions Club will also be screening children at the Watkins Glen Pre-K, the B.C. Cate Pre-K, the Bradford Central Pre-K and the Schuyler Nursery School.

Photo in text: Lion Brian O'Donnell with a young Strong Kids/Safe Kids festival-goer. (Photo provided)

Obituary: Warren L. Coats

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Warren L. Coats

Age 89, of Montour Falls and formerly Mecklenburg, passed away on September 25, 2011.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Barbara Coats; sons, Frederick (Laurie) Heimes of Evergreen, CO, and Peter (Liz) Coats of Mecklenburg, NY; a sister, Rena (Ray) Kist of Boston, NY; a brother-in-law, Don Butcher of Fredonia, NY; two grandchildren, Shane Coats and Lauren Coats; loving nieces and nephews; and a much loved couple, Ed and Karen Riley. He was predeceased by his parents, Stewart J. and Clara (Canfield) Coats; and a sister, LaVona Butcher.

The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen, on Friday, October 14, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, Oct 15 at 11:00 a.m. at the Mecklenburg United Methodist Church, 6063 Turnpike Rd., Mecklenburg. A reception and Firemen’s Service will follow at the Mecklenburg Fire Company.

Warren graduated from Odessa High School in 1939. As a veteran of WWII, he served in the U.S. Army Air Corps with the 11th Bomb Group H in the Pacific Theater from 1942-1945. He later graduated from the school of Agricultural Engineering at Cornell in 1949. He worked for Therm, Inc. and later as a broker for the Patterson Real Estate Company of Ithaca. With his wife Barbara, they also owned and operated the Mecklenburg Grocery store for several years.

Warren served on the Schuyler County Legislature from 1986-1989. He was a member of the American Legion Post #676 of Odessa. As a life and charter member, and past chief, he served at the Mecklenburg Volunteer Fire Company for 65 years. He was a member and past Trustee of the Mecklenburg United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Mecklenburg United Methodist Church, PO Box 66, Mecklenburg, NY 14863; or the Mecklenburg Volunteer Fire Company, PO Box 108, Mecklenburg, NY 14863.

You may view his memorial or sign a guestbook online at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com.

Leadership Schuyler deadline: Sept. 23

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Sept. 15 -- Leadership Schuyler has extended the deadline for participants to apply to take part in the class of 2011-12 – the 11th class in the program.

Applications are due no later than Friday, Sept. 23 for the program, designed to develop individuals for future leadership roles in the Schuyler County area.

Applications are available on-line at www.leadershipschuyler.com

Program sponsors SCOPED and the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce are seeking program candidates who live or work in Schuyler County and are interested in developing leadership skills, knowledge of community issues, and pursuing leadership roles in their community and career.

Topics involve Vision, Team Building, Leadership, Communication Skills, Emotional Intelligence, Conflict and Collaboration, Managing Change, Coaching Skills, Presentation Skills, Motivation, and Professionalism.

Since 2001, the program has continued to evolve to create leaders and community participants. To date, the program has graduated over 185 individuals.

In addition to sessions focusing on leadership skills that run from September through May, Leadership Schuyler participants take part in small group service projects of their choosing. Some past projects have targeted organizations including the Schuyler County Historical Society, Red Cross, Humane Society, and the Spirit of Schuyler.

For more information, contact Leadership Schuyler at (607) 535-4341 or visit www.leadershipschuyler.com

Obituary: Kim Marie Verstringhe

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Kenneth J. Perkins Funeral Home, Gorham, New York.

Kim Marie Verstringhe

STANLEY, NY, -- Kim Marie Verstringhe, age 55, formerly of Montour Falls, died Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2011 at Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester.

Friends may call Friday, Sept. 23 from 3-5 and 7-9 p.m. at the Kenneth J. Perkins Funeral Home, 2583 E. Main St., Gorham, NY. A memorial service will be held Saturday, Sept. 24 at 3 p.m. at the United Church, 11 Gibson St., Canandaigua, NY.

Memorial contributions may be made to Embrace Your Sisters, P.O. Box 322, Canandaigua, NY 14424; or Central NY Affiliate for Susan G. Komen For the Cure, 5008 Brittonfield Parkway, Suite 300, E. Syracuse, NY 13057.

Kim was born in Montour Falls, NY, the daughter of Elden and Marjorie Wetmore Tewksbury. She graduated from Odessa-Montour Central School in 1974. Kim received her Bachelor’s Degree from SUNY at Cortland, and her Master’s degree from Elmira College. She was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma Sorority. Kim taught reading for 25 years, including 18 years in the Marcus Whitman Central School District, Rushville, NY.

Kim touched and enlightened more lives than she could have imagined. She never complained during her 23-year battle with breast cancer, and found something positive in every moment.

She is survived by her husband, James Verstringhe; children, Nora (Justin) Miller and Lucas Spencer; step-children, Kimberly S. Verstringhe and Michelle (Lorenzo) Fabiani; three grandchildren, Anthony and Jackson Miller and Gino Fabiani; a sister, Lorie (D.L.) Winner; and nieces and nephews, Shane (Rita), Alicia (Andrew), Sara (Keith), Emily (Kenny) and Aaron.

Obituary: Frederick Depew

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Haughey-Wood Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Frederick Depew

Age 80, of County Road 14, Montour Falls, NY passed away Sunday, September 18, 2011 at Schuyler Hospital.

Fred was born on October 28, 1930 in Montour Falls, the son of Russell and Frances Pelham Depew. He graduated from Odessa-Montour Falls Central School in 1949. He then attended Elmira College and SUNY at Oswego, where he received a degree in Vocational Technical Education.

Fred was a retired 1st Sergeant in the United States Army, serving over 20 years for the Corps of Engineers. He also served 25 years with, and retired from, the New York State Department of Correctional Services as an Educational Supervisor.

He was a member of the International Brotherhood of Carpenters & Jointers of America, the BPOE of Watkins #1456, and the American Legion Post of Watkins Glen, and was a communicant of St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, Watkins Glen. He loved his family and greatly enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Fred is survived by his wife, Rosemary Simiele Depew; brothers Claude Oliver Depew of Honeoye, Clyde Orville Depew of Prattsburg, and Eugene Nelson of Zephyrhills, Florida; sisters Ruth Ainah Bennett of Montour Falls and Sarah Mary Copper of Florida; a special niece, Krista Green, and many other wonderful nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his brothers Russell Paul, Gail Francis, and Bela Earl (Bill) Depew; and a sister, Doris Anna Field. Another brother, Ernest Neal Depew, passed away as an infant.

Friends may call at the Haughey-Wood Funeral Home, 5th Street, Watkins Glen, between 4 and 8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 22. There will be a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. Friday at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, 905 Decatur St., Watkins Glen, with Father Paul Bonacci officiating. Interment will be at St. Mary's Cemetery, Watkins Glen. A reception will follow at the BPOE Lodge of Watkins #1456.

Contributions in Mr. Depew’s honor may be made to the Humane Society of Schuyler County, 2386 County Route 10, Alpine, NY 14805; the Falck Center, 600 Roe Avenue, Elmira, NY 14905-1629l; or a charity of one’s choice.

Arrangements are with the Haughey-Wood Funeral Home, 119 Fifth St., Watkins Glen, NY 14891. Friends and family may sign the guestbook at www.haughey-woodfuneralhome.com.

Obituary: Florence R. Foley-Luppold

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Florence R. Foley-Luppold

16 February 1927-13 September 2011

Age 84, formerly of Alpine and Big Flats, New York, died Sept. 13, 2011.

Lake lover, pie baker, gardener, napper supreme. Seamstress, crafter, homemaker, campfire cook. Woods walker, rock collector, beach comber, bird watcher. Coffee addict, lead foot, hostess extraordinaire. Adventure seeker, old house explorer, Fingerlakes trekker. Generous of heart, kind to strangers, light of spirit, quick to laugh. Pittsburgher to her final day. Devoted to her siblings and nieces and nephews too numerous to name but much beloved. Friend. Wife of the late John J. Foley and the late Manfred Luppold. Mother and Grandmother we adored and will miss always. Peaceful journey, Flo.

With love from your children: Stephen (Holly) Foley, Marianne (Lester III) Reimsnyder, JoAnne (Scott Green) Foley, Barbara (Michael) Kohberger, Karen (Ray) Thrall, Joyce (Barry) Hexum, Kathleen (John Hedlund) Foley.

And from your grandchildren: John William Foley, Sara (Corey) Rynders, Les (Min) Reimsnyder, Roarke, Kelsey & Nolan Baldwin, Kaitlin Kohberger, Ryan (Rebecca) Pritchard, Kristin (Dave Cowan) Pritchard, Colter & Nors Hexum, Josephine & Henry Foley-Hedlund

And your great-grandchildren: Arianna Mastronardi, Anna & Adam Pritchard, Marvin & Alyssa Reimsnyder.

There will be no calling hours, and a private memorial will be held at the convenience of the family.

To remember Florence, please do something kind for a stranger. Condolences may be expressed to the family online in “Obituaries” at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com. Arrangements are by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Obituary: Dorothea M. Henry

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by a granddaughter of Mrs. Henry.

Dorothea M. Henry

Dorothea M. Henry, formerly of Little York, NY, passed away on Tuesday, September 12, 2011, surrounded by her loving and caring family.

Dot, or Dottie as she was affectionately known, was born in Waverly, New York, in June 1921 to Clarence W. and Edith A.( LaFever) McCray. She graduated from Waverly High School and then attended Buffalo State Teachers College where she earned a B.S. in Education. She taught kindergarten at Oakfield Central School for a number of years. While teaching at Oakfield, she met Wilber E. Henry. On December 29, 1948 Dottie and Wilber were married.

In 1964 Dottie and Wilber moved to Little York, New York with their five children. In April 2003, Wilber passed away after 54 loving years of marriage. Dottie continued to live at Little York until 2009, when she moved to the Appleridge Senior Living Complex in Horseheads, New York.

Dottie’s life was full of many interests and activities. She was a member of the Homer Congregational Church since 1966, and was a member of the Order of the Amaranth, for which she had served as Grand Royal Matron of the state organization at one time. She also belonged to Eastern Star.

Dolls, miniatures, and ceramics were some of her hobbies. She created porcelain and ceramic dolls, had belonged to the Syracuse Area Miniature Enthusiasts, and had held weekly ceramic workshops at the Homer and Cortland Senior Citizens Centers.

Dottie is survived by her five children, Jane (Roger) Sullivan of Otego, NY, James (Sheri) Henry of Ithaca, NY, John (Rebecca) Henry of Strafford, NH, George (Jennifer) Henry of Carol Stream, IL, and Joanne (Jay) Adams of Savona, NY; 20 grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her brothers Richard and Robert, and is survived by her sister, Fran of Edmond, OK and a brother, Theodore of Montour Falls, NY.

Calling hours will be at the Wright Beard Funeral Home, 9 Lincoln Avenue, Cortland, NY on Thursday, Sept. 15 from 4 to 7 p.m. Services will be at the Homer Congregational Church, 28 South Main Street, Homer, NY on Friday, Sept.16 at 1 p.m. Burial will be at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the American Diabetes Association, 358 N. Mildred Avenue, Syracuse, New York 13206.

To offer on-line condolences, visit www.wright-beard.com.

Obituary: Margaret H. Peck Adams

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Margaret H. Peck Adams

Age 90, formerly of Watkins Glen, passed away on Monday, September 12, 2011.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, September 17 at 1:00 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 610 Decatur St., Watkins Glen, Rev. Beverly Karr-Lyon officiating. Burial will follow at Glenwood Cemetery.

Margaret was predeceased by her husbands, Arthur J. “Joe” Peck Jr. and Truman R. Adams. She is survived by her children, Arthur J. Peck III (Donna) of Breesport, NY, Jean P. (Robert) Swinnerton of Hector, NY and Grace Ann (Ronald) Pelino of Las Vegas, NV; six grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the 2011 Family of Friends Campaign, c/o Schuyler Health Foundation, Inc., 401 W. Main St., P.O. Box 828, Montour Falls, NY 14865. You may view her Memorial or sign a guestbook online at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com.

Obituary: Donald Michael Dean

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Donald Michael Dean

Age 43, of Burdett, NY and formerly of Goldsboro, NC, passed away after a battle with cancer on September 9, 2011 at Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, NY.

The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen, on Tuesday, September 13, from 12 noon-2 p.m. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial with military honors will immediately follow at the Union Cemetery of Hector, Burdett, NY.

Mike is survived by his sons, Aaron and Ethan Dean of Watkins Glen; his mother, Margaret Dean of Burdett; brothers Rex (Donnell) Nunemaker of Centerville, PA, and Brad Nunemaker of Union City, PA; and a sister, Elizabeth (Charles) Hill of Garland, TX. He was predeceased by his father, Donald M. Dean.

Mike was a graduate of Watkins Glen Central School, Class of 1987; and later served seven years in the U.S. Army. He was a life member of the VFW Post #2674 of Watkins Glen and a member of Moose Lodge #426 of Montour Falls.

You may view his memorial or sign a guestbook online at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com.

Hospital offers car seats to families in need

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Sept. 9 -- Thanks to funds from CARA (Championship Auto Racing Auxiliary) Charities, Schuyler Hospital is offering car seats to Schuyler County families in need.

To help keep Schuyler County children safe, Schuyler Hospital provides the car seats at no cost to families – if they meet eligibility requirements after completing a brief application.

Mothers planning on giving birth or local families with small children can apply for a car seat by contacting Schuyler Hospital at (607) 535-8639 ext. 2353.

Harvest Celebration honors Debra Whiting

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Sept. 9 -- The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce will hold its second annual culinary event, Debra Whiting’s Harvest Celebration, formerly known as A Taste of the Finger Lakes, from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 13 at the Watkins Glen Community Center.

The name of the event was changed to honor the late executive chef and owner of Red Newt Cellars Winery & Bistro, Debra Whiting, who died in an accident on the New York Thruway on June 30. Whiting served on the Chamber’s board of directors from 2008 to 2011, and was its chairwoman in 2010. She was the driving force behind the inaugural culinary event in 2010

“This is bittersweet for all of us. We know how much promoting the area meant to Deb -- which makes it that much more important for us to follow through and put on another amazing event in her honor,” said Rebekah LaMoreaux, Chamber president and CEO.

The purpose of the event is to capture the essence of culinary creations and farm fresh produce during the heart of harvest, while displaying numerous local restaurants, farm markets, wineries, breweries, and other food vendors in the area. Attendees and guests will have the opportunity to see, sample and socialize while enjoying a variety of Finger Lakes fare.

“We’ve made this upscale event financially appealing by continuing to offer feasible ticket prices and free vendor spaces,” LaMoreaux said. “We want everyone to walk away with something special from this experience.”

Ticket prices per person are $35 in advance and $40 at the door. There is no cost for chamber member vendors to register a display space for their products. The cost for non-chamber member vendors is $50. All reservations for booth spaces must be made no later than Sept. 16.

Musical entertainment will be provided, once again, by guitarist William Groome. His musical genre consists of acoustic, classical, and folk.

For more information on tickets or booth space registration, contact the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce at 607-535-4300 or email Katie@watkinsglenchamber.com no later than Sept. 16.

500th package for our troops

A volunteer group met on Wednesday, Aug. 31 to pack and prepare to ship their 500th package for our troops. A spokesperson, Patricia Beckwith, said the group started this endeavor back in February 2008. The volunteers are from the Wayne Ladies Auxiliary, Wayne American Legion, and Wayne Sons of the American Legion, with help from several other community members. They come together on the first Wednesday of each month at the Wayne Legion Post. Mrs. Beckwith and some others do the shopping for, and organizing of, items for the packages. The group has a system for packing the boxes, filling them -- including in each a letter from the group -- and taping them shut in a matter of 15-20 minutes. If anyone knows of a deployed soldier to whom the group could send a package, contact Joan Scott, Veterans Service Officer of Schuyler County, at jscott@co.schuyler.ny.us.

Schuyler youths shine at State Fair

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Sept. 8 -- Several Schuyler County 4-H members had their work displayed and participated in competitions at the New York State Fair, which recently ended.

Dog handler Kayla Grady, along with her pet Spot, achieved Grand Champion status in the pre-novice agility show. In the horse ring, Amelia Stamp rode in dressage and hunt seat divisions, and Danielle Teed and Sarah Teed showcased their Gymkhana skills.

Our First Lego League® Team #4903, The Servo Slammers, took first place in the the first-ever State Fair Robotics Mars Rover Challenge. 4-H officials said the team formed in the early summer and has been working hard to prepare for this challenge.

Two 4-H youths took on leadership positions within the Youth Building at the State Fair. Emily Johnson was a Teen Assistant (TA), and along with 12 fellow TA’s worked with the State 4-H office staff, CCE 4-H Educators and volunteers to keep the youth building flowing smoothly throughout the Fair. Dane Ort was a Teen Leader in the Poultry area and was responsible for behind-the-scenes upkeep in the Poultry area of the Youth Building. He assisted with hands-on education about baby chicks, ducks and fowl and even took a few turns as “Eggbert,” the informative egg.

Schuyler County 4-H members who had their project work exhibited at the State Fair were: Simonne DeWalt, Kayla Grady, Autumn Steel, Danielle Teed, and Sarah Teed. Each participant received at least one blue ribbon for their work.

For more information on how you can become involved with animal, robotics, teen leadership or other 4-H projects, contact CCE Schuyler County at 607-535-7161 or email schuyler4h@cornell.edu

Racing Research Center President J.C. Argetsinger, left, shakes hands with Pete Lyons.

Writer Pete Lyons discusses Formula One

WATKINS GLEN, Aug. 29 -- Author Pete Lyons -- using photos from his family archives -- told Saturday of his experiences as a motorsports reporter covering Formula One in Europe and the United States in the 1960s and '70s.

Lyons' talk in the Watkins Glen Elementary School auditorium was part of the International Motor Racing Research Center's ongoing celebration of the 50th anniversary of the first Formula One race at Watkins Glen on Oct. 8, 1961.

Lyons, a Center presenter at its annual open house in 2008, is well-known as the top American writer on Formula One and as the preeminent Can-Am race writer.

The author, who illustrated his talk with a power-point presentation of photos from the early days of Formula One racing at Watkins Glen, has authored several books, including "Can-Am, "Can-Am Photo History," last year's "Can-Am Cars in Detail," and his newest work, "Fast Lines: Memorable Moments in Motorsports," published by Vintage Racecar Magazine.

In introducing Lyons, Center President J.C. Argetsinger called him "the dean of American racing writers and photographers," and a man who "has lived the kind of life we all would have liked to live."

Lyons, who grew up in Westchester County, was close enough to visit Watkins Glen on occasion with his father, Ozzie, at a young age. It was from those early experiences that Lyons developed a love for the sport of racing that helped carry him into his writing career. He was a writer and photographer for several major motorsport publications across the years.

He said covering racing in the old days was a far cry from the commercialized sport of today -- where drivers are hard to interview alone, and where guardrails and regulations keep race photographers well back from the racetrack. In his day, he said, he could get within a few feet of the track, and without guardrails separating him from the vehicles roaring by.

"In those times, things were more relaxed," he said. "There was time to chat with the race people, and they did."

After his talk, the audience and author returned to the Racing Research Center, where Lyons signed copies of his latest book, which were on sale on a table there.

Photos in text: Author Pete Lyons and copies of his latest book, on sale at the Center Saturday.

From the Lyons archives: The start of the first Formula One Grand Prix at Watkins Glen.

From the Lyons archives: Pit road at Watkins Glen in the early 1960s.

With retirement of Lloyd Wetherbee, changing times are ahead for SWCD

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Aug. 25 -- The Schuyler County Soil and Water Conservation District recently celebrated 22 years of dedication and expertise provided by its District Technician, Lloyd Wetherbee, who announced his retirement. A retirement luncheon was held in his honor.

Wetherbee, known statewide for his expertise in map making and Geographical Information Systems (GIS), has other talents that he honed over more than two decades. Drain-tile layout, erosion control, stream stabilization, state and federal permitting, critical area seeding, agricultural value assessments, pond management, and administration of the annual Green Arbor seedling program are just a few of his areas of expertise.

Wetherbee will continue to work 10 hours a week to help transfer his knowledge to the Soil and Water District’s new hire, Rebecca Collins.

According to an SWCD press release, "Rebecca is a very talented, enthusiastic young woman who was born and raised in Chemung County and continues to live there in the Town of Catlin. She spent nearly a year learning from some of the area’s best natural resource professionals" with the Chemung County Stormwater Team, and the Chemung County Soil and Water Conservation District.

“Rebecca has always gone above and beyond the call of duty, and her growth in knowledge over the last year far exceeded my expectations,” said Chemung County Stormwater Team Professional Engineer Jimmie Joe Carl.

“Lloyd is one of the most technically talented individuals I have ever worked with,” said Schuyler County Soil and Water District Manager Jerry Verrigni. “His ability to independently accomplish what would normally take two or three people to do is simply uncanny.”

“I think I will miss his dry sense of humor the most. It has kept us all laughing over the years,” said Grazing Specialist John Wickham.

“Change is always difficult, and Lloyd’s meticulous talents will be greatly missed," said District Field Manager Elaine Dalrymple, "but I am glad he will be staying on part-time for awhile. We are looking forward to working with Rebecca and watching her build her own professional niche.”

More than 40 professionals from around the region wished Wetherbee well at the luncheon. For his part, he looks forward to spending more time in his new role as a grandfather, and exploring the outdoors that he loves so much.

"His legacy," said the press release, "remains evident throughout the county with the many maps he has created and the many conservation practices he has installed."

Photo in text: Rebecca Collins, new Schuyler County Soil and Water District Technician, and Lloyd Wetherbee at his retirement luncheon. (Photo provided)

Cyclists start their 100-mile journey, leaving from the Human Services Complex parking lot.

300 participate in annual Tour de Cure

MONTOUR FALLS, Aug. 21 -- More than 300 bicyclists participated Saturday in the second annual Finger Lakes Tour de Cure in support of research and education to combat diabetes.

About 100 cyclists departed from the Schuyler County Human Services Complex at 7 a.m. on the Century Ride -- a 100-mile trek around Seneca Lake. Three other groups, one in each succeeding hour, rode out on shorter trips of 65, 35 and 10 miles. The event is run by the American Diabetes Association.

The goal of the event: to raise $100,000 in the fight against diabetes. It goes toward research and education, says tour director Jessica Bottoms of Syracuse, and adds to awareness of the disease.

Each participant in the Tour files a $25 registration fee, and gathers a minimum of $150 in pledges.

One of the Century Ride participants was Kirk Peters of Hector, who said he had gathered $1,000 in pledges. He was riding on his 20-year-old Vitus bike, which "is French, and used to be the top of the line in its day," he said. The bike weighs about 10 pounds more than today's lightweight models.

Matt Gill, a sophomore at Watkins Glen High School, was also in the 100-mile ride. He has been riding 30 to 60 miles once a week recently, and so was ready for anything except rain. "I hope it doesn't rain," he said. "It makes it harder to ride."

Sponsors for the event increased this year, with Lockheed Martin among those coming on board. Other sponsors include Schuyler Hospital, Cayuga Medical Center, 99.5 WOKN, WLVY 94 Rock, Tops, Saint Joseph's, Walgreens, Kingsbury's Cyclery, WVIN 98.3, Novo Nordisk, The Addison Post, and AM 1480 WLEA.

The first Seneca Lake-based tour was last year, with 150 riders and with Clute Park in Watkins Glen serving as the starting and finish point. But Bottoms said there was a problem in securing the park this year on the desired date, which led her group to the Human Services Complex.

"The park is beautiful," she said, "but this works out better with parking. And as the event grows, we could park around the corner, too, in the B.C. Cate school parking lot. We already have a date for next year at this same location. It's Saturday, August 18, 2012."

The American Diabetes Association also operates Tours elsewhere in New York -- in Rochester, Albany and Buffalo -- and in 43 other states.

Photos in text: Participants Kirk Peters (top) and Matt Gill.

Left: The T-shirt design. Right: Tour director Jessica Bottoms.

Red Riders are those Tour de Cure participants who have diabetes. They wore red vests on the ride, and were encouraged along the way by calls of "Go Red Rider, Go."

Balloons marked the start and finish point at the entrance to the Human Services Complex lot.

The dock was a popular spot at Hazlitt Beach, site of the Schuyler County Farm Bureau's annual picnic. Dinner at the event was provided by Carol Bower Catering.

Dairy farmers honored at annual picnic

Special to The Odessa File

HECTOR, Aug. 17 -- Two Schuyler County dairy farms -- Gaige Farms owned by brothers Dick and Gary Gaige and Seneca Valley Farms owned by Ed Gates and his sons Lance and John -- were each presented with an Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM) "Farmers Partnering to Protect Our Environment" roadside sign Tuesday in recognition of their conservation of natural resources and commitment to environmental protection.

The signs were presented at the Schuyler County Farm Bureau's annual summer picnic, attended by more than 150 people at Hazlitt Beach.

The Schuyler County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) presented the sign awards, assisted by Ben Dickens, chairman of the Schuyler County Agriculture and Farmland Protection Board. Stephanie Bergen, Schuyler County Farm Bureau President, congratulated each of the farmers.

The Schuyler County Farm Bureau and the Schuyler County Agriculture and Farmland Protection Board are co-sponsors of the awards with the Soil and Water District.

Gaige Farms, which straddles the border of the Towns of Catharine and Hector, has been in the family for nearly 160 years. It has 1,200 acres and milks 400 cows. The Gaiges, said the SWCD, are leaders in the use of farming practices that increase and maintain soil organic matter, reduce soil compaction and minimize soil erosion, with high crop production a consistent result. Gaige Farms has implemented many other conservation practices, including strip and cover cropping, diversion ditches, nutrient management, roof runoff management, and manure storage.

“Protecting soil and water is just good business and AEM provides technical and financial assistance that promote environmental stewardship and long-term profitability,” said Gary Gaige. Brenda Gaige, Dick’s wife, also works full time on the farm as does Dick’s son, Brandon. Meg Gaige, Gary’s wife, helps manage the farm books.

Seneca Valley Farms is located near the Village of Burdett and has been in the Gates family since 1967. The farm has 800 milking cows and 1,900 acres. Being close to a village, the owners try to plow down their manure whenever possible to lessen odor complaints, and try to respond to all such complaints in a prompt fashion. This farm, says SWCD, does an excellent job in keeping records of manure spreading by field to reduce fertilizer use and protect the environment.

Other conservation practices installed on this farm include a silage leachate collection system, manure storage, nutrient management, minimum tillage, integrated pest management, cover and strip cropping and roof runoff management.

“We truly try to be good neighbors and protect water quality," said Ed Gates. "I think our Burdett and Hector neighbors appreciate the open spaces that farming maintains.”

Susan Gates, John’s wife, also works on the farm full-time as does Lance’s son, Taylor, when not in school, and Lance's daughter, Siara. John’s children, Gavin, Colin, and Madison Gates, help out when needed, as does Grace Dalrymple, Ed’s daughter, when she is home from college.

“In today’s society," said Dickens, "agriculture may not appear to be a direct part of our lives, but it is a leading industry in Schuyler County with nearly one-third of the county being actively farmed. Behind the scenes, Schuyler’s farm families play a vital role by providing fresh, high quality foods, maintaining open space and scenic views, and supporting our economy.”

“The Gaige and Gates’ farms," added Elaine Dalrymple, SWCD Field Manager, "are two of nearly 200 AEM farmers partnering to protect natural resources in Schuyler County and ensuring that farming remains a vital part of life in our county.”

Photos in text:

Top: Dick (left) and Gary Gaige, owners of Gaige Farms, with their AEM sign. (Photo provided)

Second: John (left), Ed (middle), and Lance Gates, owners of Seneca Valley Farms. (Photo provided)

Third: State Senator Tom O'Mara, right, chats with Jim Hazlitt at the picnic.

Fourth: Live entertainment was provided at the picnic by musician Brett Beardslee.

Present at the Farm Bureau picnic: Schuyler County Judge candidates Joe Fazzary, left, and Dennis Morris. They are squaring off in a Republican Primary set for Sept. 13.

Curious George gets a hug from a young girl as a boy moves in for one.

Curious George, music entertain kids

ODESSA, Aug. 13 -- Curious George visited the Dutton S. Peterson Memorial Library Friday afternoon, entertaining kids as apart of the library's ongoing celebration of its 25th anniversary.

Curious George, a popular monkey in children's literature, posed for pictures with the kids on hand, and got hugs from some of them.

The children, and adults on hand too, were also entertained by Uncle Joe and the Rosebud Ramblers, a musical group featuring banjo music.

Photo in text: Uncle Joe and the Rosebud Ramblers perform.

Birthday girl Mary Birge, with her cake in the background.

Mary Birge marks her 100th

Burdett centenarian looks ahead 'to 10 or 20 more years'

MONTOUR FALLS, Aug. 5 -- Mary Birge turned 100 Friday, and to celebrate, she gathered with friends at the Silver Spoon Cafe in the Schuyler County Human Services Complex.

She had received more than 300 birthday cards in recent days, and more were being delivered to her luncheon table. Nearby sat a cake with "Happy 100th Birthday" written on it. Mary was taking it all in and enjoying the moment.

"It's nice," she said. "I'd like to go another 10 or 20 years. It's not unheard of. But it's not in my hands; it's up to God."

Mary -- who said "we (meaning family predecessors) have spelled the last name Burge, and then Burg, but finally settled on Birge" -- is a retired federal employee. She worked for 20 years for the Veterans Administration Hospital in Canandaigua, doing a variety of jobs often nursing related -- "though I wasn't a nurse. Just say I was a federal employee."

But she was much more. In her ten decades she has been a school teacher -- "for three or four years in schools in the area" -- and an employee at the Seneca Army Depot and Shepard Niles.

Now, long into her retirement years, she maintains a keen interest in many things: gardening, politics, and shopping among them. Just the day before, she had been at the Tops market in Watkins Glen -- a regular stop -- and found when she reached the checkout that the store was giving her the cartload of goods for free in honor of her 100th birthday. And Stillman's Greenhouse provided her with a corsage for the occasion, along with what Office for the Aging Transportation Coordinator Rick Davis described as "a box of goodies."

Davis has been transporting Mary around Schuyler County -- to such places as Tops and Stillman's -- for the past 25 years, and says she's a remarkably sharp woman who can in part attribute her longevity to her diet. "She eats well," he said. "She eats greens and fruits; I tell you, collards and vinegar work for a lot of people."

Mary doesn't mention diet as her secret to a long life, though. "It was good parents, and good ministers, and good friends," she said. "I can't take complete credit. And of course there is the Good Lord."

Mary's base of relatives -- nieces and nephews -- live out in Denver, so the celebration Friday was one with friends. She has never married, never had any children. "Oh, I've been in love," she said, "but the gentlemen who proposed to me, I didn't love. I couldn't see living with them, being their wife. But it's all worked out pretty well."

She lives in an apartment in Burdett, and gets around the area in the OFA van driven by Davis. "She told me she doesn't know what she'll do when I'm gone," said Davis, who just turned a relatively young 60.

Mary still gardens -- and took a tumble last week while tending to a miniature rose bush in a garden behind her apartment building.

"I hit my head here," she said, pointing to the right side of her skull. "But I don't think it did any damage. I called the firemen on this" -- and she pointed to a Link to Life button on a wristband on her right arm -- "and they came and helped me."

She has a strong interest in politics -- and a special disdain for Congressmen who "don't have to pay for their own health insurance. Mine comes out of my pension. They should have to pay, too."

And she said that while she is a Republican, she voted for President Obama and thinks he is "doing the best job possible under the circumstances. That's a very difficult job nowadays."

After the lunchtime gathering -- a regular occurrence put on by OFA, but with "more people than usual, here for Mary," said Davis -- she was going to return home. She didn't have any big plans, just the usual for a centenarian: working around her apartment, tending to her flowers, taking a nap, "and dealing with my birthday cards."

Many of the cards have come from around the country, at the urging of a national organization called The Good Old Days, which publishes a magazine of the same name. It urged readers to wish Mary a happy 100th, and scores of them responded.

"I've removed all the cards from their envelopes," she said. "It's a lot of cards, from all over the country. I'm keeping them in a special box. I think they're wonderful, and I'll keep them until the day I die."

But again, she's in no hurry.

"I have no arthritis, no diabetes, and I have a good appetite," she said. "'Food tastes good to me. I'm able to use my legs, although I did have a hip replacement and I use a walker.

"I figure I'm good for 15, maybe 20 more years," she said, this time increasing her earlier bottom estimate by five years. "God willing, that is."

Photos in text:

Top: Office for the Aging transportation coordinator Rick Davis applauds as Mary is serenaded with the "Happy Birthday" song by the 50 or so diners in attendance at Friday's luncheon.

Middle and bottom: The birthday cake -- "You don't see many cakes with 'Happy 100th,'" said one observer -- and the basket on her table where diners could deliver birthday cards to Mary.

A sign on the wall and balloons at the OFA luncheon highlighted Mary's milestone.

Helping to rebuild after Katrina

WGHS students from Hector church join effort in New Orleans area

Special to The Odessa File

HECTOR, July 26 -- Hurricane Katrina hit the City of New Orleans on August 29, 2005. Six years later, the people there are continuing to rebuild.

From July 17-23, ten Watkins Glen High School students and three adults -- all associated with the Hector Presbyterian Church -- went to New Orleans as part of Project Homecoming to aid the cause.

Project Homecoming is a rebuilding ministry of the Presbytery of South Louisiana, funded mainly by Presbyterian Disaster Assistance. Utilizing volunteer labor and experienced construction staff, Project Homecoming rebuilds homes of uninsured, under insured, elderly and disabled survivors of Hurricane Katrina in the Greater New Orleans area. Since its inception in April 2007, Project Homecoming has rebuilt 120 homes at less than one-third the cost charged by contractors.

The 10 students were all part of the Hector Presbyterian Church Youth Group known as the Hector Youth Connection. Their journey was a mission project set up through the Presbyterian Church by Hector Pastor Jim Yao.

One of the adults participating, Michele Gimbar, related the following:

"We stayed at The Olive Tree Village in Pressburg, La., which was one of the areas hardest hit with flood water, and were part of a group of 70 (our 13, with the others from a church in Columbia, Washington).

"Our local group worked on two houses, mostly exterior painting, but we did do some insulation and window framing. The mission trip also included community service with Second Harvest Food Bank and Green Light. We sorted food for Second Harvest to be redistributed to area food pantries.

"The other project, Green Light New Orleans, invests energy in people by assisting New Orleans residents in-person, one household at a time. As volunteers we installed free energy-efficient light bulbs to demonstrate that a mass movement of individual actions creates a significant impact on our environment and community. We met so many wonderful and resilient people through all our projects.

"In addition, we saw the impact of Hurricane Katrina on the ecosystem through a tour of the bayou, visited the 9th Ward -- which was the site of the levee failure -- listened to some jazz in the French Quarter, and feasted on po boys, gumbo, oysters and other fine New Orleans cuisine."

Photo in text: The Hector Presbyterian Church was represented on the trip by, front from left, John Flowers, Sarah Hazlitt, Maggie Myers, Elena Likoudis, and Sarah LaMascus; and back from left, Jenna Gimbar, John Fausold, Michele Gimbar, Gavin Gates, Zach Dvornicky-Raymond, Bryson Clarkson, Pastor Jim Yao, and Sarah Wickham. (Photo provided)

Man charged in crash; 6th person dies

Note: A sixth victim, Elva J. Hershberger -- whose husband Melvin was killed in the July 19 crash described below -- died Tuesday, July 26 at Strong Memorial Hospital from internal injuries sustained in the accident. The man charged in the crash, Steven Eldridge, now faces a sixth count of criminally negligent homicide, police said.

From press and TV accounts

PENN YAN, July 20 -- Police have charged a Penn Yan man with five counts of criminally negligent homicide following a crash in the Yates County Town of Benton early Tuesday afternoon that killed five Steuben County Amish farmers riding in a passenger van.

According to newspaper and TV reports, Steven Eldridge, 42, has also been charged with driving while intoxicated, reckless driving, unsafe passing, speed not reasonable and prudent, and failure to keep right.

He had recently been paroled after serving two years in prison in connection with the theft of a Rochester police car and a subsequent high-speed chase in 2006.

Police said Eldridge -- while driving a car Tuesday on Pre-emption Road -- tried to pass a large, slow-moving farm tractor and collided with the oncoming van, which then veered into and under the tractor.

Killed in the crash were two men and three women: Melvin Hershberger, 42; Sarah Miller, 47; Melvin Hostetler, 40; Anna Mary Byler, 60; and Elizabeth Mast, 46.

Ambulances, fire trucks, police and helicopters rushed to the scene, removing bodies and transporting eight injured van passengers to hospitals. The tractor driver, Tim Labarr, 44, of Dresden, was reported at first to have minor injuries, but later reports said he sustained internal injuries and was being treated at Geneva General Hospital. Eldridge -- according to varying news accounts -- was either uninjured or received minor injuries.

The road -- located seven miles northeast of Penn Yan in the northern part of Yates County -- was closed for seven hours, then reopened.

Eldridge, reports said, was arraigned in Town of Benton court and placed in the Yates County Jail in lieu of $250,000 cash bail or $125,000 bond. He is scheduled back in court Friday morning.

The Amish farmers were from the Steuben County towns of Jasper and Woodhull, visiting Yates County on a tour of farms arranged by Cornell University to look at different methods of farming. A total of 14 people were in the van; one escaped injury.

Yates County Sheriff Ronald Spike said the accident occurred at 12:41 p.m. when Eldridge, southbound, attempted to pass the tractor "on a curve, in a no-passing zone, at an intersection" by entering the northbound zone in front of the van.

"When he did," the sheriff said, "he collided with the van." The van veered into the path of the farm tractor "and ... became embedded in and under the tractor ... I've been in this business for 40 years; it's one of the worst accidents I've ever seen." The tractor had spray equipment attached to it -- a portion of which, Spike said, became embedded in the van.

Signs along the road, one published report noted, caution drivers about the curve and urge a reduction in speed. Others indicate slow-moving farm vehicles might be using the road.

Left: Paul Marcellus with some pottery he was selling at the party to raise funds for the Humane Society. Right: Humane Society President Georgie Taylor at the gathering.

Party raises funds for Humane Society

HECTOR, July 24 -- The ongoing effort to raise funds for the Humane Society of Schuyler County's new multi-purpose facility on Marina Drive in Montour Falls took the form of a party Saturday at Hazlitt's 1852 Vineyards.

The party offered a festive atmosphere with vendors, a food tent, a wine bar, ice cream, and music by Jared Campbell, a singer-songwriter featured on MTV's Real World and a finalist in the Independent Music World Series.

The Humane Society, led by President Georgie Taylor, is in the midst of a $350,000 capital campaign for the new facility, which will bring together its current functions at a clinic on County Route 10 and at the former (and outmoded) county animal shelter on Van Zandt Hollow Road.

The new facility will be in the former Kurtz Enterprizes building on Marina Drive.

All money raised at Saturday's party will benefit the Humane Society's building project, society officials said.

Photo in text: Singer-songwriter Jared Campbell performs at Saturday's fundraiser.

Scout plans fund-raising on park project

ODESSA, July 19 -- Life Scout Lee Sidle, as part of his Eagle Scout project -- establishment of a park on the north side of Rt. 224 in Odessa, near where the old footbridge used to exist -- is now fund-raising toward that purpose.

Sidle says he is seeking "either donations of money or product donation." A list of such products follows: lamp posts and fixtures, chain-link fence, flowers, one tree, bushes and mulch. He is also seeking "tools to borrow (saws, chainsaws, pruners, clippers)." Total cost of the project is estimated at $2,200.

He is also considering "selling" sections of fence and affixing small plaques to the fence naming each section's benefactor: "This section of fence donated by ..."

Sidle can be reached by e-mail at Lee.Sidle@gmail.com,

Odessa fire department honors Gardiner

Special to The Odessa File

ODESSA, July 21 -- The Odessa Fire Department held an appreciation ceremony at the Odessa Fire Station Wednesday evening for firefighter Gene Gardiner, who retired at the end of June after serving the department for 58 years.

Gardiner joined the department in September 1953, and served as Fire Chief from April 1964 through March 1967. He also served through the years as Assistant Fire Chief, Training Officer, President, Secretary and Treasurer.

The ceremony included a history of Gene’s firefighting career presented by 1st Assistant Chief John Jelliff, remarks by Fire Chief Mike Tomassi, and the official retirement of Gardiner’s department badge (Badge #1).

During his career, the department had 18 different chiefs, including himself. He was one of the original members of the unit's rescue squad.

Gardiner is retired from Bennet Tool & Die in Horseheads. .

"Gene’s dedication to duty and his willingness to do whatever was asked of him by his officers is legendary," said Jelliff, "and has earned him the respect of his peers. Gene worked harder at the age of 80 than many people half his age did. If ever there was a member of the Odessa Department who new members should emulate, it should be Gene Gardiner."

Photo in text: Odessa Fire Chief Mike Tomassi, left, and Gene Gardiner. (Photo provided)

M.A.S.H. Camp offers healthcare experience

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, July 16 -- Earlier this week, 10 students going into 8th and 9th grades spent two days at Schuyler Hospital in Montour Falls, gaining hands-on experience in a variety of potential healthcare careers.

Schuyler Hospital co-sponsored the Medical Academy of Science and Health (M.A.S.H.) Camp on July 13-14 along with the Central New York Area Health Education Center (CNYAHEC) and Excellus BlueCross BlueShield.

The students learned CPR, injected saline water into an orange, viewed their own cough-generated germs in the lab, tested their lung capacity, helped Seneca View residents paint birdhouses, treated “wounds” on oranges in Physical Therapy, tried out some of the imaging machines, and gave each other wrist casts. They also toured Schuyler Ambulance and had a special visit from the LifeNet of NY/Guthrie Air medivac helicopter.

The campers were also awarded special certificates by a representative of U.S. Congressman Thomas Reed.

Two of the students were considering being nurses, one confirmed his interest in being a heart surgeon, and a fourth decided after the camp that she would like to pursue physical therapy.

M.A.S.H. Camp at Schuyler Hospital takes place annually each July, and is coordinated by CNYAHEC.

For more information contact Schuyler Hospital at (607) 210-1950 or go to www.schuylerhospital.org

Photo in text: Schuyler Hospital’s 2011 M.A.S.H. Campers (L to R) showing off the casts they applied to each other: Jennifer Kakretz, Taylor Kennard, James St. Julien, Brianna Struble, Justin Neu, Callie Ann Stillman, Rebekah Lynch, Skylar Gray, Nia Walton, and Hannah Stone. (Photo provided)

Obituary: Debra Whiting

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Debra Whiting

Age 52, of Hector, NY, passed away on June 30, 2011 as a result of an automobile accident.

She is survived by her loving husband and best friend, David Whiting; sons and loves of her life, Ryan Dougherty and Brenton Whiting; mother, Bernice Schaaf of Connecticut; brothers and sisters, Randy (Charlene) James of Texas, Sandy (Bill) Callnan of Vermont, Ronny (Donna) Schaaf of Connecticut, Gordon (Denise) Schaaf of New Hampshire, Theona (Wayne) Palma of North Carolina, and John Schaaf of North Carolina; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Jim and Bernita Whiting of California; and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Jim and Pat Whiting of California, Donna and Harry Orlyk of Salem, NY, John and Mary Whiting of Catherine, NY, and Andi Whiting and Frank Osborn of Watkins Glen. She was predeceased by her father, Joseph Schaaf.

Debra was co-owner of the Red Newt Cellars in Hector, a renowned chef, chair of the Finger Lakes Culinary Bounty and the immediate past chair of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

Services for family and close friends will be held at Hector Presbyterian Church at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, July 5.

A celebration of Debra’s life will follow at the Red Newt Cellars, 3675 Tichenor Road, Hector, on Tuesday, July 5, from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.

Those wishing may consider a donation in memory of Debra to the Food Bank of the Southern Tier, PO Box 2127, Elmira, NY 14903; or to the Hector Presbyterian Church, PO Box 96, Hector, NY 14841.

Please send tributes, memories and condolences to “Obituaries” at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com. Arrangements are with the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Friends mourn loss of Debra Whiting

Red Newt Winery & Bistro co-owner dies in Thruway accident

HECTOR, July 2 -- Friends gathered Friday at the Red Newt Winery and Bistro in Hector and later across the lake at Lakewood Winery to mourn the death Thursday night of Debra Whiting, Red Newt co-owner, a renowned chef and the immediate past chair of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

Whiting -- who with her husband David had owned and operated Red Newt since 1998 -- died from injuries sustained in a two-vehicle accident Thursday night on the New York Thruway. David was injured in the crash and hospitalized at Syracuse Upstate Medical Center, although friends said Friday night that he was being released from the hospital.

Police said the accident occurred in the westbound lanes of the Thruway in Montezuma, Cayuga County, when the Whiting van and another westbound vehicle collided, with each veering off the roadway and overturning. The Whitings' vehicle went off the right side of the road and struck a tree. One of the passengers in the other vehicle was hospitalized.

Debra Whiting was airlifted to Auburn Memorial Hospital, where she died of internal injuries.

Red Newt office manager Greg Tumbarello said the Whitings had been enroute home from a pleasure-and-business trip to Vermont when the accident occurred. They had been conducting talks there with a Burlington wine association with an eye toward expanding their market in that state.

While the winery remained open Friday, the Red Newt Bistro was closed for the day -- although family and friends were welcome to gather there to support one another. There was, accordingly, a steady of stream of visitors at the Bistro throughout the day.

Later, friends gathered in the evening at Lakewood Winery, talking about Deb and all that she accomplished in life, and pondering what they could possibly do to help the family. One person suggested working at the Bistro, while another talked about organizing a possible fund-raiser, with money going to the Food Bank -- one of Deb's passions.

Deb Whiting, they all agreed, was an uncommon person. "She ran," said one, "but she didn't just run. She ran in marathons."

"And she didn't just dance," added another. "She taught others how to dance."

And always the talk returned to her abilities in the kitchen, where she established a reputation for outstanding and imaginative preparations.

"She would take ingredients that you wouldn't think would work in a particular recipe," said one, "and it would turn out amazing."

The Whitings were a close-knit couple, always appearing together at family and public events. They loved traveling, too -- particularly, said Tumbarello, back in April when they went to California to pick up a customized Volkswagen van and drive it home cross-country. "They were really excited about that," he recalled.

They were in that van on the Thruway, he added. David Whiting was at the wheel when -- according to a State Police Troop T sergeant -- he edged into the left lane and collided with a 2004 Buick driven by Ian Olinski, 18, of Nedrow, Onondaga County.

Olinski's car went off the road into the median and overturned, while the Whitings' van veered right, went off the right shoulder and hit a tree, the sergeant said. No charges were filed, but an investigation was pending, he added.

Debra Whiting, a native of Atlanta, Ga., was a microbiologist who, early on, worked as a lab supervisor at Cornell University and, in 1992, opened a catering business called Seneca Savory. She and David opened Red Newt Winery and Bistro in 1999.

She and David -- a Watkins Glen High School and Binghamton University graduate who worked as a winemaker at Dundee's McGregor Vineyard and at Chateau LaFayette Reneau, Swedish Hill and Standing Stone -- met in 1988 and married two years later.

Debra was a self-taught chef known for her clever and distinctive bistro meals. Back in August, a camera crew was at the bistro to tape promos of her in the kitchen for the Food Network reality show "Chopped." She later traveled to New York City to compete on the show, which has not aired.

She had been working on a cookbook, and planned to release it in 2012. She was a spokesperson for the Finger Lakes food industry, utilizing local produce at the bistro and promoting it around the region.

She was also a founder of the Finger Lakes Culinary Bounty, a group devoted to developing a regional culinary tourism movement.

Beyond that, she was a past president of the Watkins Glen Parent-Teacher Association, and last year served as chairwoman of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

At the gatherings Friday, the mourning was mixed with concern for David.

"What can we do to help him?" more than one person asked.

"Just be there for him," was the prevailing answer.

A statement from Red Newt can be found here.

A letter about the Whitings is on Forum.

Honorees (from left) George Winner, James Bacalles and Junior Specchio sporting part of their awards: Scout hats.

Specchio, Winner, Bacalles honored

Boy Scouts present the three men with 'Distinguished Citizen' Awards

ELMIRA, June 30 -- Raphael "Junior" Specchio Jr., former State Senator George H. Winner Jr. and former Assemblyman James G. Bacalles were honored Wednesday night by the Five Rivers Council of the Boy Scouts of America as its 2011 Distinguished Citizens during a dinner at the Elmira College Campus Center.

Specchio (pictured at right), a longtime Ford dealer in Watkins Glen who has contributed many years to Scouting and to his community, was introduced to the large crowd by old friend William Ellison, retired State Supreme Court Justice, who said Specchio is a man who "thinks about what is good for his neighbors and his community."

Specchio has served in the Watkins Glen Fire Department for 63 years in many capacities, including chief; has been a Town of Reading councilman, a state Democrat committeeman, and a longtime board member of the area Chamber of Commerce; has served as a local, district and state officer of the Elks; was instrumental in one of the early drug-awareness programs; and was a founder and served as president of the Seneca Santa program. He has served the Boy Scouts organization for more than 40 years, including as the Five Rivers Council president.

Winner, who served 13 terms as a State Assemblyman starting in 1978 and then three terms as State Senator before retiring from his seat, was introduced by his cousin, A. Scott Welliver, who told some humorous stories about Winner's formative years.

Winner, during his legislative career, helped his constitutents attain significant state resources for projects such as the Clemens Center renovation, the CCC Workforce Development Center, infrastructure transportation including Interstate 86, and Watkins Glen International; and Economic Development projects such as Sikorsky Black Hawk, DeMets, Sitel, Corning Inc. and others. He has served on many boards and task forces in support of area organizations.

Bacalles, who served on the Steuben County Legislature and as Corning Mayor before becoming an Assemblyman for 15 years, was introduced by James Griffin, who recounted various experiences the two have shared in Scouting -- which has been a strong influence in Bacalles' life since childhood. He has served as Five Rivers Council president, recently stepping down after eight years in the post.

Bacalles, retired from political life after losing to Tom O'Mara in a run for the State Senate last year, has served on many area boards of directors, including Corning Hospital/Founders Pavilion, the United Way, the Office for the Aging, RSVP, the Career Development Council, the Southern Tier Central Regional Planning Board, Catholic Charities of the Southern Tier and Steuben County, and others.

The awards evening, which started with a social hour, was emceed by Carl T. Hayden. The dinner chairs were A. Scott Welliver and G. Thomas Tranter.

Many Schuyler County residents were on hand in support of Specchio, including Watkins Glen Mayor Mark Swinnerton, former village trustee William Smagner, restaurateur Rick Savard, Watkins Glen School Board President Brian O'Donnell, recent WGHS graduate Casey Holland, former Chamber of Commerce president Maxine Neal, current Chamber president Rebekah LaMoreaux, Legislator Stewart Field, Ken Wilson, and others. Also present: State Senator Tom O'Mara and Assemblyman Chris Friend.

Each of the honorees was presented with a Scout hat and a statuette, and all three spoke in recognition of the evening's awards -- with a general theme.

As Specchio put it, "all the things" for which he, Winner and Bacalles were being honored "can only be done with other people" helping along the way.

"You can never be successful on your own," said Winner, to which Bacalles added: "I have a million people to thank tonight."

In his closing remarks, Specchio summed up the evening: "Thank you all for being here, and God bless the Boy Scouts of America."

Photos in text:

Top: Junior Specchio speaks to the crowd after being honored with a Distinguished Citizen award.

Middle: A. Scott Welliver, left, with his cousin, honoree George Winner, during the presentation ceremony.

Bottom: Honoree James Bacalles addresses the dinner gathering.

Left: Junior Specchio with Patrica Suits Ellison. Right: Junior Specchio (center) with two District Attorneys: Weeden Wetmore (left) of Chemung County, and Joe Fazzary of Schuyler County.

Testimonial speakers Willam N. Ellison (left, on behalf of Junior Specchio) and A. Scott Welliver (on behalf of George Winner).

Jeannette Frank named to position of Executive Director at Arc of Schuyler

Special to the Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, June 27 -- Jeannette Frank has been appointed as Executive Director of The Arc of Schuyler, effective July 1, it has been announced by Harold J. Hoffmeier, Jr., President of The Arc's Board of Directors. Frank will replace James E. Wilson, who is retiring as of June 30.

After Wilson announced his retirement to the Board of Directors, the board began a search process and identified Frank as a candidate for the executive director position.

“We are pleased to have someone who has been part of the organization for so many years and who shares the organization’s commitment and values and is ready to take over this important role,” Hoffmeier said. “Jeannette is well qualified to offer a smooth transition for the individuals who receive supports through the agency, their families, the staff and the other organizations that collaborate with The Arc.”

Frank received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from The College of St. Rose in Albany, NY. She started at The Arc as an Outreach Worker in 1979 after moving to the area.

“I was hired to talk with families about The Arc and our plans to bring services to Schuyler County that their sons or daughters could access. Instead I found myself listening and learning so much from those parents,” Frank said. “They told me about their hopes, dreams and fears. It was a different time then. The choices families faced were either no help at all or being told by professionals to place their child with a disability in an institution.”

Since then Frank has served in various capacities at The Arc and was instrumental in the establishment and oversight of the programs now offered. She has worked in the position of Assistant Executive Director for many years.

Frank’s commitment to working in the field of developmental disabilities began with a powerful experience while working at The Arc.

“I accompanied Bonnie Baker, a parent of two individuals with disabilities and president of our board at the time, on a visit to the Craig Developmental Center in Sonyea, New York,” said Frank. “It was a terrible place with locked doors and barred windows where up to 3,000 people once lived. Bonnie said to me, ‘No one should ever have to live in an institution.’ Her statement made me realize that what we were trying to do at The Arc was critically necessary. I have met so many families like Bonnie’s since then; my commitment is continually reinforced by my experiences with these families.”

Frank acknowledges that changes in the way organizations like The Arc provide supports are on their way and that supports and services people may have assumed will always be there could be in jeopardy without strong advocacy regarding what it is that parents and individuals with disabilities want and need.

“The next few years we need to be vigilant and be a participant in helping to design whatever changes may come. I am certainly prepared to listen and lead during this critical time.”

The Arc of Schuyler is a chapter of NYSARC, Inc. and The Arc of the United States and provides supports to over 300 individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. For more information about The Arc, call 607-535-6934, visit www.arcofschuyler.org or find The Arc on Facebook at www.facebook.com/arcofschuyler.

Photo in text: Jeannette Frank (Photo provided)

Distinguished Alumni honorees Colonel Allan P. Waite, Jr. (left) and Dr. Joseph J. Del Rosso.

250 attend WGHS Alumni Banquet

WATKINS GLEN, June 26 -- More than 250 people were on hand Saturday night at the Watkins Glen Community Center for the 86th annual Watkins Glen High School Alumni Banquet.

Honorees for the evening included two Distinguished Alumni award recipients, Dr. Joseph J. Del Rosso (Class of 1951) in the field of Education, and Colonel Allan P. Waite, Jr. (Class of 1976) in the field of Music.

Del Rosso has had a long and distinguished career in education, both as teacher and administrator. He was a college professor at SUNY Brockport, at Stanford University and at the University of Southern California, and was later superintendent of two school districts in New York State -- in East Rochester and in Suffolk County -- before becoming executive director of SCOPE Education Services on Long Island, a not-for-profit, private organization that provides support services to school districts.

Colonel Waite is the commander and conductor of the United States Air Force Band in Washington, D.C. He has been in command of that organization since mid-2010, after working for the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs, overseeing community relations policy involving, among other things, bands, honor guards and the use of emerging media -- a job in which "he helped influence band policy throughout the military," says a USAF Band press release.

Three WGHS students were also honored with scholarships: graduating seniors Amber Swartz, Shannon Hazlitt and Marissa Pike.

Banquet committee members were Susan Stocum Chaffee, Julie Franzese Bonzo, Debbie Simpson, Kathy Lodge Richtmyer and Stephen Schouten.

Alumni Association Board of Directors officers are Peggy Doolittle Scott (Class of '70), president; JoPat Paradiso Wright ('61), vice president; Donna Ney Lodge ('77), secretary; and Phyllis Hollenbeck Teeter ('60), treasurer.

Photos in text:

Top: WGHS alums Nancy Franzese and Maggie Field pose at the banquet.

Bottom: Scholarship recipient Shannon Hazlitt, who graduated from Watkins Glen High School earlier in the day.

Scholarship recipients Amber Swartz, left, and Marissa Pike. Both graduated from Watkins Glen High School earlier in the day.

The plaques in honor of the Distinguished Alumni.

The Firemen's Festival boasts some colorfully lit rides.

Firemen's Festival ends on a wet note

Firefighters' Parade photos are here.

MONTOUR FALLS, June 12 -- The annual Montour Falls Firemen's Festival on the Firemen's Fairgrounds concluded Saturday on a soggy note as rainstorms repeatedly swept through the region.

However, the jewel of the weekend -- the annual Firefighters' Parade down Main Street -- was squeezed in between storms, barely finishing before a storm hit at 6 p.m.

Authorities said they hurried the parade along, cutting down its usual 90-minute running time to about 60.

Meanwhile, rain in the afternoon and then again at the end of the parade kept attendance down at the festival -- which featured rides, games, food, caricature drawing, and musical entertainment. Tom Bloodgood and his Unusual Suspects -- including Scott Muir, Mark Stephany and Lou Cicconi, among others -- were the featured musicians Saturday night.

"Yes, it's affected things," Fire Chief Jeff Confer said of the rain as he surveyed a soggy festival grounds that lacked a lot of the people that had been present Thursday and Friday nights. However, "we're doing all right," he said.

The ever popular parade featured seven bands, along with many fire units from around the region. Jim Howell once again served as the emcee.

Photos in text:

Top: Bingo is always a popular feature at the Montour Falls Firemen's Festival.

Bottom: Marilyn Monroe and Elvis were the main attractions on a Schuyler Hospital float in the parade.

Firefighters' Parade photos are here.

From left: Rebecca Zafonte, Taylor Thoman and Stephanie Letteer with a prize they won.

Stuffed-animal prizes are on display at various games around the festival grounds.

This spinning ride attracted a steady stream of festival-goers Thursday night.

Former Odessa-Montour varsity basketball standouts (from left) Brittany Evans, Cassie Fitch and Katie Ray arrived at the festival together Friday night.

Scott Muir, left, and Mark Stephany were part of the featured festival band Saturday.

Firefighters' Parade photos are here.

Ector-Berry engagement announced

Sam and Kathy Ector are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Taraha Lynn Ector, to Jared Keith Berry, son of Chris and Mary Berry.

The bride-to-be is a 2007 Watkins Glen High School graduate and is currently employed by Seneca Dental as a Dental Assistant.

The groom-to-be is currently employed by The Olive Garden.

The couple plan to exchange their vows in the Summer of 2012.

Photos of specific classes were the order of the day. Here: The Class of '59.

Odessa alums gather for a picnic

ODESSA, May 29 -- They gathered, 250 strong at Catharine Park Saturday for the OMCS All Alumni Pig Roast Picnic.

It was a gathering for anyone who had ever attended school in Odessa or Montour Falls, and it featured lots of food and beverage, and offered live music provided by an Odessa alumna, Cindy Tague Smith ('70) of Amston, Conn., and her husband, Jim.

The picnic reunion was organized by Kathy Cole Cleveland of Cayuta and Allan Stone. Stone -- a Robert E. Lee lookalike -- made the journey from his home in Hinton, West Virginia to enjoy the day, which started under threatening skies that eventually cleared.

Stone's white-bearded looks do not go to waste, his wife Shirley said. He participates in Civil War Reenactments, and often portrays General Lee. Shirley participates, too -- in "whatever role they need me to do."

The day featured class photos, with those on hand from, say, the Class of '59 or the Class of '66 posing on the lawn of the park.

"I've seen people here I hadn't seen in forty or fifty years," marveled Mary Brown Pound, a lifelong Odessa area resident.

Tents for the gathering were provided by Tom Wood and Tim Jaynes, and Wood provided some tables that Jaynes helped set up.

The fairly large size of the turnout surprised the husband of one O-M alumna, who said he didn't think the picnic had been advertised much. The number of people on hand, he said, "is pretty impressive."

Photos in text:

Top: Cindy Tague Smith ('70) of Amston, Conn., and her husband, Jim, provided music for the reunion picnic.

Bottom: Reunion organizers Allan Stone and Kathy Cole Cleveland.

Alumni Mary Brown Pound and Bev Seafuse Martin were among the 250 people attending the reunion.

Lucretia West wins Gallery Award

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, May 27 -- The Franklin Street Gallery and Gift Shop awarded artist Lucretia West the People’s Choice Award on May 25 during its Women in the Arts Exhibit.

West’s oil painting “Hands of the Father” was showcased at the gallery along with work from over 40 other artists as part of the Festival of the Women in the Arts, a community collaboration among non-profit organizations, schools and cultural organizations. The Franklin Street Gallery kicked off the festival on March 12 with an opening reception that attracted more than 100 artists and community members.

Attendees of the reception and visitors to the gallery from March 12 through April 30 submitted their votes for their favorite piece to receive the People’s Choice recognition.

Ileen Kaplan received Honorable Mention for her acrylic painting, “Breakfast.” Both West and Kaplan received prize money. A portion of the registration fees to participate in the exhibit will benefit the continued operation of the Franklin Street Gallery.

The gallery is operated by The Arc of Schuyler, a non-profit organization providing supports to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and is sustained by grants, fees for programs, commissions and donations from gallery supporters.

For more information on programs, events and how you can support the Franklin Street Gallery and Gift Shop, visit it at 209 N. Franklin Street in downtown Watkins Glen, call 607-535-2571 or visit www.facebook.com/franklinstreetgalleryandgiftshop.

Photo in text: Lucretia West with her painting, “Hands of the Father.” (Photo provided)

Rick Stelzer at the drums during the hotel party in his honor.

Hospital hosts Stelzer farewell events

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, May 24 -- To honor the career and community impact of retiring Schuyler Hospital President / CEO, Rick Stelzer, the Schuyler Health Foundation, Auxiliary, and Hospital Board sponsored not one, but two, farewell events on May 21 and 22.

On Saturday, May 21, a testimonial dinner and dance was held at the Harbor Hotel in Watkins Glen. Highlights of the evening were many.

The testimonial portion of the evening was hosted by J.C. Argetsinger, who praised Stelzer for “saving our hospital” since he started at Schuyler Hospital six years ago, including forming positive relationships with staff, and making equipment and facility improvements. “Rick gave this hospital back to the community,” Argetsinger said. .

Argetsinger also celebrated Stelzer’s community dedication, which has included involvement with the Chamber of Commerce, the United Way Board, and the Watkins-Montour Rotary.

Long-time colleague Caroll Ashley spoke of mentoring Stelzer from his rise as an orderly up through the ranks at an Ohio health system. He described Rick as eager to learn and grow, sharing what he’s learned with others, and a leader who just “gets things done.”

Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce representatives Rebekah LaMoreaux, Deb Whiting and Rob Halpin presented Stelzer with a plaque honoring his dedication to the Chamber as a Board Member and Past Board Chair.

Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary representatives Midge Franzese and Kathy Fragola thanked Stelzer for his long-time support – joining the Auxiliary was one of the first things he did after being named CEO/President. They presented Stelzer with a $500 donation to the Schuyler Health Foundation in his name.

Susan Payne, Chair of the Hospital Board when Stelzer began at Schuyler, praised Stelzer for the professional and tenacious manner in which he tackled his job head-on, for the community relationships he built and repaired, and for solidifying the staff on all levels as one team.

On behalf of the Hospital Board, Foundation Board, and Auxiliary, Payne presented Stelzer and wife, Marilyn, with a plethora of gifts to lure them back to the area from their retirement home in the Carolinas – including gift certificates for overnight stays and dinners at a number of local establishments.

Payne concluded her comments by donning Stelzer in a cape emblazoned with the Schuyler Hospital “S.” “You are our super hero,” Payne said.

Following his humble remarks expressing his deep gratitude to all those in attendance, the kind words, and all the friends and colleagues he has bonded with over the years, Stelzer put down the microphone and picked up a set of drumsticks.

For several songs throughout the evening, Stelzer took a seat at the drumset to play along with the band employed for the weekend’s events, “NY Rockin’ Revue,” drawing dancers to the floor, and cheers from the crowd.

The next day, Stelzer spent some time at a free community picnic and outdoor festival at Clute Park – held in his honor. There again, Stelzer joined “NY Rockin’ Revue,” taking up the drums along with Dr. Vincent LaDelia on guitar and vocals, for two songs.

The family-friendly event featured a chicken bbq, raffles, a car show, and lots of kids activities.

The weekend’s events were sponsored by Welliver, Jeff’s On-Site Services, and Chemung Canal Trust Company.

For those who wish to commemorate Stelzer’s career service with a charitable gift to Schuyler Hospital, a fund has been established in his name. These gifts, as well as the net proceeds from the two farewell events, will go to the 2011-12 Family of Friends fund-raising effort to acknowledge Stelzer’s service to Schuyler Hospital and the community.

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

Photos in text:

Top: Rick Stelzer, left, and his wife, Marilyn, right, enjoy the hotel celebration.

Second: Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce President Rebekah LaMoreaux speaks while former Chamber Board Chair Deb Whiting, left, listens, during the hotel party.

Third: Rick Stelzer dons a cape with the help of Susan Payne.At left, watching, is Rick's wife, Marilyn.

Bottom: From left, Linda Confer, Carol Bower, Terrie Sautter and Rita Tague-Carmony at the Sunday celebration at Clute Park. (Photos provided)

Midge Franzese, left, and Kathy Fragola present a check from the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary to the Schuyler Health Foundation's Family of Friends campaign in honor of retiring Hospital President/CEO Rick Stelzer. (Photo provided)

Galloway-Lattin engagement announced

The families of Richard and Eleanor Lattin of Montour Falls, NY and Diane Galloway of Sagamore Hills, OH, proudly announce the engagement of their children, Charles Clawson Lattin II and Ashley Marie Galloway.

Chas is a 2002 graduate of Odessa-Montour Central School, a 2007 graduate of Alfred State College, and is currently pursuing a Mechanical Engineering Degree at the University of Arkansas. Ashley is a 2004 graduate of Nordonia High School, a 2008 graduate of Virginia Tech and is currently pursuing a Graduate degree in Civil Engineering at the University of Arkansas.

The couple plan to marry in August 2012 in Montour Falls.

Photo in text: Ashley Marie Galloway and Charles Clawson Lattin II. (Photo provided)

The Leadership Schuyler graduating class of 2011. (Photo by Michelle Benjamin)

Leadership Schuyler graduates 23

WATKINS GLEN, May 6 -- The Leadership Schuyler Class of 2011 was graduated Thursday night in a commencement exercise at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel.

The class, with 23 members, brings to 189 the number graduated in the program since its inception. The first graduating class was that of 2002.

Leadership Schuyler is designed, says its website, "to develop individuals for future leadership roles in the Schuyler County area." It involves an orientation session, a dozen two-and-a-half-hour sessions and the commencement ceremony.

Jeffrey Dill, president of J.R. Dill Winery, LLC, was the keynote speaker. Two individuals -- graduating class members Brian Kenney and Denise Wickham -- also spoke, chosen by their classmates to do so.

Kenney, who works for Welliver Inc., said he took the Leadership course because -- as a person new to the community -- he saw it as a way to meet people and learn about the community. But it became more than that.

He and his classmates, he said, developed "a common goal, to challenge ourselves to a higher level of professionalism ... and received valuable knowledge" about how business and government work together. "I found the experience very rewarding," he noted.

He challenged his classmates to take what they had learned "and make your business a better place." And he challenged the local community leaders "to provide the opportunity to allow the graduates to use their newfound skills to make a difference."

Wickham, athletic director at Watkins Glen High School, said that "leadership is a powerful word," and that it "is a journey and not a destination ... We evolve and change" and find new passions and interests "we didn't even know existed. Today's mighty oak is yesterday's tiny nut that held its ground."

Leadership, she added, "is selfless ... never be afraid to admit you are wrong or made a mistake." A good leader, she said, will "build a strong team. Have faith in yourself and in the abilities of those you lead."

The 23 graduates: Tonya Andrysick of Watkins Glen International, Holly Baker of The Arc of Schuyler, Kimberly Bennett of Chemung Canal Trust Company, Steven Bennett of the Schuyler County Ambulance Service, Andrew Billotte of Welliver, Janine Bond of the Town of Hector, Christina Chely of the Finger Lakes Wine Country Tourism Marketing Association, Daniel Doty of Cargill Salt, Michael Evranian of Watkins Glen International, Jill Gaylord of Schuyler Hospital, Carlton Gleason of Schuyler Hospital, Donna Grimes of Tops Market, Michael Hughey of the Village of Montour Falls, Brian Kenney of Welliver, William Little of Schuyler Hospital, Kenneth Mansfield of Glen Baptist Church, Jennifer Rodriguez of Arnot Health, Wendy Shutter of The Arc of Schuyler, Ann Welliver-Hartsing of Welliver, Katherine Thompson of Red Newt Cellars, Denise Wead of Elmira Savings Bank, Gary Whyman of Dresser-Rand, and Denise Wickham of WGHS.

The Facilitator for the group was Linda Lathrop of Joint Education & Training (JET). The Advisory Board members are SCOPED Executive Director Kelsey Jones, Jamee Mack of Schuyler County, Gail Hughey of Schuyler County, Odessa-Montour Central School District Superintendent James Frame, Watkins Glen Central School District Superintendent Tom Phillips, Michelle Benjamin of Schuyler Hospital, Kathy Walruth of Schuyler County, Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce President Rebekah LaMoreaux, Arc of Schuyler Executive Director Jim Wilson, and Schuyler County Sheriff William Yessman.

After receiving their graduation certificates and congratulations from Lathrop and from SCOPED's Jones and the Chamber's LaMoreaux, the graduates were presented with certificates from Congressman Tom Reed’s office for their achievement.

Photos in text: Keynote speaker Jeffrey Dill (top) and Commencement speaker Brian Kenney, one of the 23 graduates.

Left: Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce President Rebekah LaMoreaux. Right: David and Deb Whiting, owners of Red Newt Cellars in Hector, were on hand.

Leadership Schuyler Advisory Board member Jim Wilson, left, talks with Assemblyman Christopher Friend, a guest at the ceremony.

Emily DeSantis reacts after climbing out of Seneca Lake following her jump into it.

Polar Bear Plungers find the water cold

WATKINS GLEN, May 1 -- The eighth annual Polar Bear Plunge at the Tiki Bar Saturday was marked by sunny skies -- a divergence from the dominant rain of the past few weeks.

But the theme of the day was, after all, the cold that participants would be experiencing -- and in keeping with that theme, a sometimes chilling north wind was encouraging spectators to keep their sweatshirts on.

Not that the wind was anything like the water. No ... the water of Seneca Lake was something else again: wavering between 39 and 41 degrees, according to announcements in the hour leading to the first plunge of the day.

"You should have seen their eyes," said Dave Centurelli, a Sheriff's Deputy who each year oversees safety on the dock from which participants enter the water, and who helps pull them back up the ladder. He is assisted in the effort by diver Terry Stewart.

"When they came up after hitting the water, their eyes were huge," Centurelli said. "That water was shockingly cold."

Indeed, none of the jumpers exhibited an inclination to stay in the water for long. In fact, most went in quickly, without frills -- just straight dives or jumps -- as though in a hurry to get the whole ordeal over with as fast as possible.

Ninety people signed up, but fewer than that went in -- starting with the first three people on the list, each a no-show when it was time to jump. There were several more no-shows later on.

Proceeds from the day went to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation. Each jumper received a T-shirt.

Photo in text: One couple from Elmira -- he dressed in a suit and she in a bikini -- did a fancy tandem entry into Seneca Lake.

The crowd in front of the Tiki Bar, awaiting the start of the Polar Bear Plunge.

Left: Before the registered jumpers began, this unidentified man took an impromptu leap. Right: Jerry Foster of San Diego did a flip. He said he was anxious to return home, where the water is much warmer.

Left: Eric Shay of Montour Falls goes airborne. Right: Mark and Leira Stephany of Watkins Glen were among the spectators.

Brad Jacobes took a running start before hitting the water.

A couple follows a scenic route upon leaving the Polar Bear Plunge.

Trout-Giberson engagement announced

The families of James and Maria Beylo of Watkins Glen, NY, along with Michael and Audrey Giberson of Barnegat, NJ, proudly announce the engagement of their children, Tralene Marie Trout and Michael John Giberson, Jr.

Tralene is a 2003 graduate of Watkins Glen High School. Michael is a 2001 graduate of Southern Regional High School, Manahawkin, NJ. They are both currently employed with the Sikorsky Aircraft – Military Helicopter Completion Center.

A 2012 wedding is being planned.

Photo at right: Tralene Marie Trout and Michael John Giberson, Jr. (Photo provided)

From left: Graduates Alexandria Hassan, Aubrey Tomassi and Patrick Rekczis.

Firefighting I graduates receive their certificates

ODESSA, April 13 -- It was graduation night Tuesday for 18 people -- men and women who completed the state-mandated Firefighter I training required of entry-level firefighters. The ceremony was held in the Odessa Municipal Building.

Each of the graduates completed 91 hours of instruction -- through books and through hands-on experience that included firefighting at a Fire Academy burn building in Montour Falls last weekend.

Graduates were from around the region -- people mostly with basic experience at area fire departments, but until now without the training for full-fledged engagement in battling blazes. With the certificates bestowed Tuesday night, said fire training instructor Glen Miller, some of them will be able to join in those firefighting efforts, while some will still have to meet mandates of their own departments.

Odessa Fire Chief Mike Tomassi said there are still department training regulations that new firefighters in Odessa must meet regarding the use of air packs -- equipment essential to entering a burning structure.

Four of the graduates are from the Odessa department: Tomassi's daughter Aubrey, Todd LaRow, Patrick Rekczis and Alexandria Hassan. A fifth, Rekczis' wife Rebecca, has nearly completed the state-required course work.

Also represented were the Watkins Glen, Hector, Mecklenburg, Elmira Heights, and Van Etten departments. Among the Watkins contingent were Sarahjane McPherson and Devon Monteiro. The youngest graduate was Nick Dalrymple from the Hector department.

"You should be proud," the graduates were told by Bill Kennedy, Schuyler County Emergency Management Fire Coordinaor. "You've worked hard, and this is a tremendous accomplishment."

Kennedy said the course involved the study and use of fire equipment, hazardous materials study, written tests, and hands-on skill stations.

He told the graduates that they might wish to pursue other, advanced trainings, but cautioned them: "Don't be too anxious to take every one. Practice what you've learned (first) in order to do it well. Then, as you go forward, you can continue to learn."

Added Miller, who served as lead instructor in the course: "This class has worked very hard. I'm proud to be associated with them."

Photos in text: Sarahjane McPherson receives her certificate from instructor Glen Miller; and a celebratory cake cut into sections and distributed after the ceremony.

Left: Schuyler County Emergency Management Fire Coordinator Bill Kennedy. Right: Graduate Nick Dalrymple from the Hector Department.

Children's author Tedd Arnold reads from his book Five Ugly Monsters.

Author Tedd Arnold entertains kids at Odessa Municipal Building reading

ODESSA, March 26 -- Popular children's author Tedd Arnold of Elmira treated kids to readings from several of his books Saturday during a gathering at the Odessa Municipal Building.

More than 100 fans -- about half of them children -- were on hand for the visit, which was part of the Dutton S. Peterson Memorial Library's yearlong 25th anniversary celebration.

"Twenty-five years is a great achievement for a small library in a small town," said Arnold, who previously visited here for a reading in 2007. He has published more than 50 children's books.

Arnold, born in Elmira, worked as a commercial illustrator in New York City before changing careers. After publication of his breakthrough book, No Jumping on the Bed, "I moved back to Elmira to work on books full-time," he told his audience.

He said he is often asked where he gets the ideas for his books. Beyond early ones that were inspired by his own children, the origin of the ideas is a mystery. "I don't really know," he said. "Ideas can happen any time, any place."

He interspersed his readings Saturday with drawings -- of characters from his books, mostly, much to the delight of the young in the audience.

One that particularly tickled them was Green Wilma, a little girl who, in a popular Arnold book, turned green and very froggish -- and developed a liking for flies as snacks. In a twist ending, Wilma discovers that her transformation was all a dream -- only not in the mind of a little girl, but rather in the mind of a frog.

Photos in text:

Top: Tedd Arnold draws a character...

Bottom: ... that fascinated his young audience. More than 100 people attended Arnold's presentation in the Odessa Municipal Building.

*****

Tedd Arnold points to the book whose popularity helped him pursue writing full time: No Jumping On the Bed.

Children's author Tedd Arnold reads to the kids from one of his books, and has them respond with key lines from the book, which ..they knew by heart.

Conservation District employee honored

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, March 25 -- A Schuyler County Soil and Water Conservation District employee was recognized with a prestigious Merit Award at the recent statewide Conservation District Annual Meeting at the Auburn Holiday Inn.

Elaine Dalrymple, District Field Manager, was honored for overall dedication to conserving natural resources in 13 years of service to the Soil and Water District. Last year, Schuyler district employee John Wickham, a grazing specialist, was similarly recognized.

In accepting the award, Dalrymple stated that she felt the award was a tribute to the entire Schuyler County Conservation District staff since “we work together as a team.” She also stated that Conservation Districts have a unique role: “We are a grassroots organization that works with local folks, we know how to design and build things, we have a good understanding of nature and we aren’t afraid to get our hands dirty.”

Dalrymple’s job addresses a number of conservation priorities, including Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM), where she is a Certified Nutrient Management Planner and a Certified Crop Advisor assisting farmers with the development of conservation and nutrient management plans; stormwater management; and soil and water quality education, working with regional specialists and Cooperative Extension.

Dalrymple also works with the Wetland Team of the Upper Susquehanna Coalition to build wetlands for the enhancement of biological diversity and water quality, and for flood attenuation.

Another aspect of her job is to promote soil and water conservation efforts in the media. “Working with our local media has been an eye-opening experience," she said. "My background is agronomy and environmental science, but conveying the Soil and Water Conservation District mission of enhancing and protecting the natural resources of Schuyler County to the general public requires a different kind of knowledge that I am just beginning to learn. I have acquired a much deeper respect for reporters and all those involved with the media.”

Dalrymple has lived in Schuyler County for 25 years. Previous to her position at the Soil and Water Conservation District, she was the Agriculture Extension Agent for Cornell Cooperative Extension.

Photo in text: Elaine Dalrymple at the annual meeting. (Photo provided)

Aerial view of Marina Drive. The animal clinic-shelter would be in the Kurtz Building.

Montour Falls Planning Board okays proposed shelter-clinic

MONTOUR FALLS, March 3 -- The Montour Falls Planning Board Wednesday night unanimously approved a Special Use Permit for the Humane Society of Schuyler County's proposed animal shelter-clinic in the Kurtz Enterprizes building on Marina Drive.

The vote clears the way for the Humane Society to purchase and renovate the building, if it so chooses -- a move that clearly is its preference, if Society President Georgie Taylor's reaction to the vote is an indicator.

"Woo Hoo," she exclaimed, thrusting her arms upward a moment after passage of the measure. Planning Board Chairman Terry Stewart, a smile on his face, answered: "Order in the court."

The Society will, accordingly, soon undertake a capital campaign to raise an estimated $350,000 needed on top of expected funds from the sale of its current spay-neuter clinic on County Route 10 in the Town of Catharine and the dog shelter on Van Zandt Hollow Road.

Taylor said that even if the Society were to decide to stick to its previous plan to renovate and enlarge the Town of Catharine facility, the cost there is not significantly less than the anticipated cost at the Kurtz site. And the Catharine project has been hampered, Taylor has said in the past, by a cost-increasing list of conditions placed on it by the Town Council.

"It's our preference," she said of the Kurtz facility. "The (Humane Society) board has not yet voted, but our preference is to provide a centrally located resource and to be visible." The Kurtz facility would fill both requirements and, said Taylor, "enable us to attract more volunteers and build a sustainable base."

Part of the decision on which site to choose will rest on negotiations for the Kurtz building -- whose owners, Jim and Kim Kurtz, "have been supportive of the Humane Society from the start," Taylor said, "and are truly animal lovers" -- and on an assessment of total costs. "We're still looking at the cost," said Taylor, "but the reality is we feel there is a significant advantage to being in Montour Falls."

Should the Humane Society decide Montour Falls is, indeed, where it wants to be, renovation and construction will follow purchase of the building -- and fairly soon. Taylor said the Society hopes "to begin construction in early summer, and complete the building by early December."

The structure would provide shelter for up to 24 dogs and 36 cats, and offer spay-neuter and pet adoption services. It would also permit the closing of the aged Van Zandt Hollow dog pound, which is short on space, service and appeal.

The Planning Board vote followed a brief meeting at which board members asked Taylor about security, noise abatement, staffing, hours of operation and the anticipated date of occupancy.

Taylor assured them that noise reduction would be pursued through landscaping, opaque partitions and small-group pods that will reduce stimuli, and with sound-reducing insulation.

The Society would hope to complete the renovation and construction work before moving in, she said, although that timetable might be influenced by funding idiosyncracies that require sale of the Town of Catharine shelter before completion of the Kurtz site. That, she said, would mean moving surgery, office and some cat adoption services in first -- but no dogs until the renovation is completed.

Chairman Stewart noted before the vote that the project brings with it "so many positives," and explained afterward that the board couldn't "deny this arbitrarily. We don't want to disrespect the people against it, but without a substantial reason to reject it, we couldn't."

Photos in text:

From top: Humane Society President Georgie Taylor reacts after the vote; Planning Board Chairman Terry Stewart; and Planning Board member Bill Hall.

The Benedicts' house, featured on The Today Show.

Montour Falls home featured on segment of Today Show

MONTOUR FALLS, Feb. 12 -- A group of three-dozen people -- friends, family and fellow Watkins Glen Methodist Church members -- were on hand Friday morning at the home of John and Gerri Benedict, 203 S. Genesee St., Montour Falls, to watch The Today Show.

Specifically, they were on hand to watch a segment of the NBC morning show called Today's Real Estate, where the building at that address -- an 1873 structure built by Albert Cook and now serving as the Almost Heaven Bed and Breakfast -- was one of six featured homes.

The show segment was conducted by Today's Al Roker with real estate mogul Barbara Corcoran -- and showed homes in Palm Springs, Louisville, Seattle, Laurie, Mo., and Montour Falls that sell for under $450,000. The big drawing card for this one was its history, size (6,000 square feet on 5.6 acres), and proximity to nearby Shequagah Falls.

Gerri Benedict said she got The Today Show to feature photos of the building by emailing the program twice, and then -- at the program's direction -- by contacting Barbara Corcoran on her Facebook page. Corcoran had Benedict send her some photos, and that led to Friday's segment, which lasted less than two minutes.

Benedict said she was up at 3 a.m. preparing quiche and donuts for her guests. "I guess I shouldn't have got as nervous as I was getting ready for it," she said. "It turned out to be quite nice" -- although she wishes a picture of one of the guest bedrooms had been shown. "They're really nice," she added.

She and John bought the structure about three years ago, and put it on the market for $449,000 six months ago. It is an Italianate-style mansion built by the brother of Montour Falls leading light Charles Cook.

She said that in part, she went to the effort of getting the structure on The Today Show because "I wanted to put Montour Falls on the map."

Photos in text: TV images from The Today Show segment.

Beauty in the light

The editor's son David was enroute from Odessa to Morrisville when the rainbow on the right caught his attention northeast of Ithaca.

David tried several shots, and found with most of them that a rainbow is ethereal -- difficult to capture in a photograph unless there is a dark background for contrast. For a few moments, that contrast existed enough for him to capture this image ... an example of beauty in the light.

(Photo by David Haeffner)

Some links to people features

Here are some links to other pages on this website dealing with features about people:

A tale called "Bubba," about a childhood hero, can be reached by clicking here.

Tales of life along Steam Mill Road years ago, submitted by now-Australian resident Betty Appleton, can be reached by clicking here.

A story about the editor's family being menaced by a maniac on the highway can be reached by clicking here.

A story about the Lazio-Clinton campaign in Schuyler County, and its relationship to herbal remedies, can be found by clicking here.