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

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.

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

Moritz Schrader with a map of his country, Germany, on display during his talk. His hometown is circled, near Hamburg.

Exchange students talk about their visits

WATKINS GLEN, March 10 -- Exchange student Moritz Schrader of Germany, who is attending Watkins Glen High School, was the primary speaker Wednesday at the weekly Books Sandwiched In gathering at the Motor Racing Research Center.

The Friends of the Library-sponsored event also featured exchange student Seimei Sanga of Japan, who is attending Odessa-Montour High School, and Anthony Curren, an O-M student who visited Spain on a summer exchange program last year.

Schrader talked about his homeland, comparing the geography (similar to here), school systems (our U.S. system is "easier," he said) and governments. He also said that of all the different foods he has tried here, he has yet to find one he hasn't liked.

Schrader speaks English well, having studied it mandatorily throughout his school career. He said he also studied French, but didn't like it and didn't do well with it.

He will remain here until "sometime in July"; then he must return home to Schwarme in Germany to resume his schooling. This year hasn't counted toward his graduation requirements, and he has two more years to complete.

After his talk, Sanga addressed the audience, explaining in his halting English -- he knew none when he arrived, and has progressed rapidly -- that he is from Toyama, which is in the "snow country" about five hours north of Tokyo. Two of his siblings have also experienced exchange programs, he said: one in Canada, and one in Australia.

Curren spoke of his six weeks in a suburb of Madrid. One of the members of the family with whom he stayed visited here afterward, and plans a return visit. For his part, Curren said his experience in Spain opened his eyes to the desirability of travel. "I want to see more of the world," he said.

Photos in text: Seimei Sanga (top) and Anthony Curren at Wednesday's Books Sandwiched In.

Obituary: Bessie Wood Henderson

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

Bessie Wood Henderson

Bessie Wood Henderson, 91, formerly of Watkins Glen, NY passed away on Friday, March 5, 2010 as the result of a fall.

Bessie was predeceased by her parents, Christopher and Lena Mae Wood Burley, and her husband, William J. Henderson. She is survived by her son Gary, his wife Patricia, and her four grandchildren, Gregg and his wife Liza, William, Michael, and Katharine. Bessie was blessed with three great-grandchildren, Mason, Emily, and Madeline Henderson, as well as a beloved niece, Beverly Craver and her husband Donald, who also survive.

Bessie graduated from Elmira Business Institute and began a career that included positions with the International Salt Company and the Schuyler County Treasurer’s Office. In 1964 she accepted a position with Central Asphalt and her friend Bud Suits. She loved her Central Asphalt family and stayed there until her first retirement 20 years later. After retiring from the asphalt company, Bessie began working at H & R Block. She continued to do tax returns until she retired again at age 88.

Bessie was blessed with many, many friends from her work career, her community service with the International Order of the Rebekahs, and her service to the Presbyterian Church Community. Bessie’s unfailing and unconditional love for her family sustained us through much heartache. We know that our newest guardian angel will continue to sustain us in the months ahead.

A funeral service will be held at The First Presbyterian Church, 520 N. Decatur Street, Watkins Glen, NY on Thursday, March 11, 2010 at 11 a.m. The family will receive friends at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th Street, Watkins Glen, NY from 3-7 p.m. on Wednesday, March 10, 2010. Burial will be in Laurel Hill Cemetery in Cayuta, NY.

Expressions of sympathy in memory of Bessie may be made to Roswell Park Alliance Foundation, Elm & Carlton Streets, Buffalo, NY 14263. You may sign a guestbook or view her memorial online at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com

Obituary: Faith E. Clark

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

Faith E. Clark

Faith E. Clark, age 77, of Pre-Emption Road, Watkins Glen, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, March 7, 2010.

Friends and family may call from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 10th, at the Haughey-Wood Funeral Home, 119 Fifth St., Watkins Glen. Her funeral will be held immediately following at 1 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be at Scotchtown Cemetery in Erin, NY at the convenience of the family.

Faith was born in Corning, NY on August 3, 1932, the daughter of the late Walter and Lila Mae Rapplee. She had been employed with Corning Glass, Ingersoll Rand, Westinghouse, and Thayer Products. She was a member and deacon of the Altay Baptist Church and was actively involved in the American Cancer Society.

In addition to her parents, Faith was predeceased by her husband, Herbert Clark, in 1983.

Faith is survived by her children, Louis James Wright, Ray (Michele) Wright, and Gary Wright; her grandchildren, Donald, Helen, Ernest, Rebecca, Christopher, Ray Jr., Jeffrey, Shawn, and Jessica; great grandchildren Emma, Kayla, Shylee, Joey, and Danielle; sisters and brother, Joyce Knight, Marjorie, Lee and Joseph Blake, and Richard Rapplee; and several nieces and nephews.

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

Obituary: Emma C. Roccisano

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

Emma C. Roccisano

Emma C. Roccisano, age 75, of Watkins Glen, NY passed away Saturday, March 6, 2010 at Schuyler Hospital in Montour Falls, NY.

Emma’s family will receive friends at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, March 9, 2010 at the Link at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, 905 Decatur St., Watkins Glen, NY. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated following at 10 a.m. at the Church, with Father Paul Bonacci, celebrant. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Schuyler Outreach, c/o Catholic Charities of Schuyler County, 607 Franklin St., Watkins Glen, NY 14891 or to St. Mary’s of the Lake Church Cemetery Fund, PO Box 289, Watkins Glen, NY 14891, or to the charity of one’s choice.

Emma was born in Santa Nicola, Italy on November 3, 1934, the daughter of the late Cosimo and Angela (Dichiera) Manno. She was a cook at Scuteri’s in Watkins Glen for many years and cared for many area children in her home. Emma was a long-time parishioner of St. Mary’s of the Lake Church and was active in the Church’s bazaar. She was a loving mother and grandmother.

Emma is survived by her son, Joseph (Suzanne) Roccisano of Dunkirk, NY; her daughters, Diana (Robert) Groll of Watkins Glen and Rose (Vince) Barto of Findlay, OH; her grandchildren, Megan Groll, Hannah Roccisano, Elise Groll, and Amy and Grace Barto; sisters-in-law Carmela Manno of Akron, OH and Yolanda Smith of Montour Falls; many nieces and nephews; several other relatives in Italy and Australia; and close friends AJ Peters and Diane Koi-Thompson. In addition to her parents, Emma was predeceased by her husband, Harry F. Roccisano, on January 3, 1983; and by her brothers, Ottavio and Armando Manno.

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

Obituary: Mary E. Wolfe

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

Mary E. Wolfe

Age 89, of Odessa, NY, passed away on Thursday, February 25, 2010 at the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility, Montour Falls, NY.

Mary was born in Newark Valley, NY on Dec. 7, 1920, the daughter of Jesse and Ina Kellam. She married James L. Wolfe in 1937, and moved their family to Odessa in the 1950s. Mary worked for Chef’s Diner and later Mary’s Diner in Montour Falls; and owned and operated Mary’s Kitchen on Wheels.

She was predeceased by her parents; two brothers; her husband of 70 years, James L. Wolfe; a son, Jesse Wolfe; son-in-law Shawn Northrup, and three grandchildren.

She is survived by a son, Jeffrey Wolfe, and daughters Marty Northrup and Mary Beth (John) Wallenbeck, all of Odessa; daughter Darlene (David) Gillis of Pine City; daughter-in-law Sandy Wolfe of Odessa; 10 grandchildren, Bill (Angie) Mosher, Brian Wallenbeck, Mike (Sonja) Wallenbeck, Matthew (Martha) Gillis, David (Mellissa) Gillis, Kristi Gillis, Amanda (Shawn) Gillis, David (Mary) Wolfe, James (Pamela) Wolfe, and Rebecca Wolfe; 11 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 Monday, March 1, from 6-7 p.m., with a funeral service immediately following at 7:00 p.m., Rev. Steve Conners officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to her church, Church of Christ, PO Box 237, Horseheads, NY 14845.

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

Vickio discusses his book at Sandwiched In

'Tales of the Famous' is due out this Spring

By Brian J. O'Donnell

WATKINS GLEN, Feb. 17 -- Local author Tony Vickio discussed his forthcoming book, "Tales of the Famous," during a talk Wednesday at the Friends of the Watkins Library's "Books Sandwiched In" series at the library.

Many people know Tony for his passion as one of the founding fathers of "The Spirit of Schuyler" -- a philanthropic group that offers financial assistance to Schuyler County residents in times of dire need. His well-written book, "Tales of the Famous," speaks to his other passions of sign painting, racing and restoration of his Corvette -- all of which he discussed Wednesday in front of an audience of more than 25 people.

When you read his book you will never watch another NASCAR race -- or any other race -- in quite the same way again, and you will know how lucky we are to have the "famous" among us here in Schuyler County.

Tony kids a lot about not caring to do much reading himself, but you have to believe he has done a tremendous amount, for his book is well written and paints an outstanding visual of his exciting -- and yes, world famous -- life.

What began as a suggestion from his wife Harriet that he jot down some of the many, many memories of his exciting life's experiences grew into a four-year project resulting in a most interesting look into racing and fast cars. He is the most down-to-earth and approachable guy you'll ever meet, yet he has rubbed shoulders with the "famous" of the racing world for the last 25-plus years and has been sought after for his skills and expertise by most NASCAR tracks on the East Coast.

Watch for "Tales of the Famous" this spring and be prepared to take a journey through Tony's eyes that you'll never forget!

Photo in text: Tony Vickio during his presentation Wednesday. (Photo by Beth Vickio)

Obituary: Glen C. Mason

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

Glen C. Mason

Age 92, of Hector, passed away peacefully at Schuyler Hospital on February 13, 2010.

Glen was born on May 25, 1917 in Elmira, the son of the late John and Nellie Mason. Shortly after graduating from high school, he married Leona May Brown of Hector, who was to be his beloved wife for the next 66 years. Leona predeceased him in December 2002.

He is survived by his five children: John H. Mason of Hector, James A Mason (Susanne) of Trumansburg, Anne E Watson (Frank) of Cheraw, SC, Glen C. Mason II of Hector and Paul H Mason (Linda) of Fenton, MI. He dearly loved and took great delight in his 10 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

With the advent of WWII, he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving overseas in England and Germany. He was honorably discharged in October of 1945. He was proud of his Navy service and was a member of the U.S. Naval Institute and The American Legion Post 676.

Glen was a member and Elder of the Hector Presbyterian Church; also volunteering with and serving for many years as secretary and treasurer for the Valois-Logan-Hector Volunteer Fire Company. He was a former member of the Odd Fellows Temple, Lions Club and Rotary Club.

Glen began his career as a draftsman at the Shepard Niles Crane and Hoist Company in Montour Falls. While busy working and raising a family, he took evening classes and studied engineering through the International Correspondence Schools. He went on to become an engineer with the New York State Department of Transportation. Following his retirement from the DOT he became a licensed Real Estate Broker and founded the firm of Glen C. Mason Real Estate in Watkins Glen.

You may consider a donation in lieu of flowers in his memory to either the V-L-H Ambulance Fund, P.O. Box 12, Hector, NY 14841, or the Hector Presbyterian Church, 5511 St. Rt. 414, P.O. Box 96, Hector, NY 14841.

There are no calling hours. A Memorial Service will be held in the spring at the Hector Presbyterian Church.

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

Arrangements are by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Obituary: Ronald R. Phillips

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

Ronald R. Phillips

Age 81, of Watkins Glen, passed away at the Bath VA Medical Center on February 13, 2010.

Ron was born in Montour Falls on February 20, 1928, the son of John R. and Hazel (Goltry) Phillips. He served in WWII in the 82nd Airborne and retired after teaching for 25 years with Dundee Central School. He was a member of the Retired School Teachers Association of Schuyler County and American Legion Post 676.

The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. Fourth St., Watkins Glen on Thursday, Feb. 18, from 6-8 p.m., with a funeral service to immediate follow at 8:00 p.m. Burial will be Friday at 10 a.m. at Pleasant View Cemetery in Reading Center, with military honors.

He is survived by his daughter, Cassy (Scott) Dickerson, of Watkins Glen; sister Wanda Rowan, St. Cloud, FL; three grandchildren, Scott (Bonnie) Dickerson of Newfield, Raymond (Janelle) Dickerson of Bossier City, LA, and Thomas Dickerson of Watkins Glen; and three great-grandchildren, Cherish, Destiny, and Aaron Dickerson. He was predeceased by his parents, son Ronald R. "Chip" Phillips II, and grandson Philip Dickerson.

Those wishing may consider a memorial donation to the Arbor Day Foundation.

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

Occupational Therapist back from Haiti

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Feb. 14 -- Occupational Therapist Shaila Singh sees her profession in a whole new light since returning from Haiti earlier last week.

"I never realized the power of therapy," she said after spending eight days working with earthquake victims in Haiti. "There is a lot of power in what we do."

Singh traveled with a 7-member medical contingent of United Sikhs, a United Nations-affiliated, international non-profit, non-governmental, humanitarian relief, human development and advocacy organization.

She said the timing is right for physical rehabilitation, now that victims are recovering from acute injuries. Singh talked about how grateful the people are for help, and how hard they are working to recover, but much more help and supplies are needed.

The daughter of Schuyler Hospital’s Dr. Jagmohan Singh, who practices Internal Medicine, Shaila Singh was able to secure some supplies for the trip from the hospital’s Rehabilitation Department, and expressed her gratitude to the staff during a visit to the department.

"I left everything in Haiti," Singh said – including the splints, braces and other medical materials she took -- as well as some of her own clothing and the flip-flops off her feet.

The need is still great for splints, crutches and therapy equipment, she said, but also for shoes, bedclothes, clothing, water and food. Singh showed photos of makeshift medical facilities and supplies, including wheelchairs constructed of lawn chairs on wheels.

"The people of Haiti are just trying to get over the earthquake and move on," she added, noting how impacted she was by their strong faith. Despite so many people suffering from dehydration, protein deficiencies and injury, living in makeshift tents, and impoverished, there is also much prayer and song.

Singh, who is currently living with her family in Watkins Glen, hopes she can return to Haiti in March.

"It’s an ongoing process," she said of the recovery of the people and their country. "I’m concerned that once the media goes away, so will the medical help. And I plan to help for as long as I can."

Photo in text: Shaila Singh (Photo provided)

From left: Assemblyman Tom O'Mara, Ethan Clark, Margaret Lucero, Jesse Turner, Lucy Craig, Megan Dupuy, Jessi Woodward, Senator George Winner, and Caitlyn Lawton

Youth Court members visit legislators

WATKINS GLEN, Feb. 13 -- Several members of the Schuyler County Youth Court traveled to Elmira Feb. 5 to meet with State Senator George Winner and Assemblyman Tom O'Mara.

The meeting was held to discuss the youths' perspective on Schuyler County and to allow them to voice their concerns over Governor David Paterson's proposed budget -- which includes a proposal to cut the TANF program (which provides summer jobs to youths in low-income families).

The meeting was held in place of a Youth Leadership Forum with representatives in Albany -- a gathering which the group was unable to attend due to budget constraints.

Obituary: Celestia A. Thurston

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

Celestia A. Thurston

Age 79, of Watkins Glen, NY passed away Thursday, February 11, 2010 at Schuyler Hospital in Montour Falls, NY.

In keeping with her wishes, there will be no prior calling hours. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, February 13, 2010 at 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, 905 Decatur St., Watkins Glen, NY with Father Paul Bonacci, celebrant.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her name to the Watkins Glen Fire Co.., 201 N. Perry St., Watkins Glen, NY 14891.

Celestia was born in Montour Falls, NY on May 22, 1930, the daughter of the late Roswell and Dorothy Green. She first worked full time from 1950 to 1952 for Dr. Tague and Dr. Norton. She also worked for 34 years for Schuyler County, was the Commissioner of Jurors and was elected the Schuyler County Clerk in November of 1975, taking office on January 1, 1976.

Celestia had also been employed since 1985 as a fire instructor at the NYS Academy of Fire Science. She worked in registration a Watkins Glen International Raceway, was the first secretary of the Watkins Glen Grand Prix and was a part-time clerk at the Gold Mine in Watkins Glen. She was the former secretary for the Watkins Glen Chamber of Commerce and a member of St. Mary’s of the Lake Church.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, A. Keith Thurston, on October 7, 1984.

Celestia is survived by her sons, Ernie E. (Brenda M.) Thurston of Port Orange, FL, Alan K. (Karen C.) Thurston of Montour Falls, and Kenneth R. (Renee M.) Thurston of Watkins Glen; her daughters, Sheryl C. (Linwood Standish) Thurston of Burdett, Debra L. McDonald of S. Carolina, and Wendy K. (Victor) Scuteri of N. Carolina; grandchildren Derick M., Mitchel D., Aidan K., Kendra R., and Aaron K. Thurston, Jennifer K. and Daniel B. Bardeen, Randy A. Jr., Travis K., Aarin D., and Austin M. McDonald, and Anita, Anthony, and Philip Scuteri; two great grandchildren; special cousin Helen Marie Sipperly, several cousins and her special K-9 companion "Ollie."

Friends and family may sign the guestbook at www.haugheywoodfuneralhome.com

Obituary: Palmena 'Polly' Serefine

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

Palmena K. ‘Polly’ Serefine

Age 95, of 313 9th St., Watkins Glen, NY passed away Sunday, February 7, 2010 at Schuyler Hospital in Montour Falls.

Friends and family may call from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, February 10 at the Haughey-Wood Funeral Home, 119 Fifth St., Watkins Glen. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 11 at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, 905 Decatur St., Watkins Glen. Interment will be at Holy Cross Cemetery in Watkins Glen.

Memorial contributions may be made in her name to St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, PO Box 289, Watkins Glen, NY 14891.

Polly was born on April 5, 1914 in Watkins Glen, NY, the daughter of the late Joseph and Kathleen Barile. She was a member and past president of St. Theresa’s Society and a parishioner of St. Mary’s of the Lake Catholic Church. She was employed with International Salt Co. in Watkins Glen.

Polly is survived by her children, Justine A. Serefine of Fresno, CA, Alice M. Sanchez of Patterson, NJ, Julia F. (Emmitt) Metcalf of Okay, OK, Sally L. Serefine of Watkins Glen, NY, Peter A. (Sandy) Serefine of Elmira, NY, and Paul J. (Christine) Serefine of Brighton, MI; 12 grandchildren; many great grandchildren; sisters Virginia DeDominick of Watkins Glen, NY and Barbara (James) Spena of Watkins Glen, NY; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Angelo J. Serefine; her brothers, Joseph and Bernard Barile; and sisters Elizabeth (Dr. William) Frank, Margaret Barile, Josephine (John) Carpenter, Louise (Hamm) Andrews, and Mary (Ellis) Blunt.

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

One of the popular stops at Casino Night was the Money Wheel.

Montour firefighters host Casino Night

MONTOUR FALLS, Feb. 7 -- The annual Casino Night -- a fund-raiser for the Montour Falls Fire Department at the fire hall -- drew a large crowd Saturday night despite the chill and snow outside.

Games of chance such as craps, Bingo and blackjack were spread throughout the department's truck bays and community room.

The event, running from 7-11:30 p.m., had several consistently popular stops -- the main one being bingo, where scores of players were competing. Card games around the bays were also drawing crowds, as was the craps table.

Photo in text: Dealer Tom Carson drew a Blackjack on this hand.

Left: The craps table was busy. Right: Deb Switzer was handling money for the Bingo game.

Scores of competitors were wielding Bingo cards.

Obituary: Nicolina E. Biagetti

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

Nicolina E. Biagetti

Age 82, of Salt Point Road, Watkins Glen, NY, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 6, 2010 at Schuyler Hospital in Montour Falls, NY.

Friends and family may call from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, February 9 at the Haughey-Wood Funeral Home, 119 5th St., Watkins Glen. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 10 at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, 905 Decatur St., Watkins Glen, with Father Paul Bonacci celebrant. Interment will be at Holy Cross Cemetery, Watkins Glen.

Memorial contributions may be made in her name to St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, PO Box 289, Watkins Glen, NY 14891 or to the Schuyler County Volunteer Ambulance Association, PO Box 2, Watkins Glen, NY 14891.

Nicolina was born in Watkins Glen on July 23, 1927, the daughter of the late Anthony and Roma Franzese. She had worked at the Watkins Glen High School library, Jefferson Village, and the Tourist Center at the Chamber of Commerce. Nicolina was a very active parishioner of St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, where she enjoyed participating in the Women’s Prayer Groups and Bible Studies. She enjoyed writing and reading poetry. She was very devoted to her entire family and was very proud of her husband, children and grandchildren.

Nicolina is survived by children, Carl (Ellen) Biagetti of Silver Spring, MD, Rosanne Doane of Watkins Glen, NY, and Lida (Michael) Riedlinger of Pittsford, NY; her grandchildren, Adam (Casey) and Anthony Doane, Michael and Samuel Biagetti, and Clara and William Riedlinger; two great grandchildren, Jordan and Michael Doane; her brother, Albert Franzese of Watkins Glen; a sister, Carolyn Quirk of Hyde Park, NY, a sister-in-law, Mary Borra of Alpine, NY; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Nicolina was predeceased by her husband, Frank E. Biagetti, on December 22, 2009.

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

Obituary: Helen Human

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

Helen Marie Marcellino Human

Age 77, of 401 Tenth St., Watkins Glen, NY passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 4, 2010 at the Arnot-Ogden Medical Center surrounded by her loving family.

Friends and family may call from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday, February 8, at the Haughey-Wood Funeral Home, 119 Fifth St., Watkins Glen. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, February 9 at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, Decatur St., Watkins Glen. Interment will be at Holy Cross Cemetery in Watkins Glen.

Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to the charity of one’s choice.

Helen was born in Watkins Glen, NY on May 17, 1932, the daughter of the late John and Nellie Marcellino. She was a member of the Watkins Glen High School graduating Class of 1950. Helen was employed as a telephone operator for AT&T, by the Glen-Baxter Dairy, and as a library clerk for Watkins Glen Central School. She was a past member of the Watkins Glen Elk’s and St. Mary’s Guild, and a parishioner of St. Mary’s of the Lake Church in which she was very actively involved.

She had volunteered for many area organizations including the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Schuyler County Veteran’s Service Agency. She was a member of the Watkins Glen High School Alumni and a key organizer for the Class of 1950. She was well known for her Jell-o Cakes, pasta fragiol, and her annisette cookies. Helen was a very loving and proud mother and grandmother and was very active in her grandchildren’s activities and lives. With all of her love and kindness, Helen was a mother and grandmother to many of her family's friends and extended relatives.

Helen is survived by her children, Charles Human Jr. and Patty (Jeff) Meehan, both of Watkins Glen, and Brenda (John) Leu of NC; her grandchildren, Jeffrey Charles, Marissa Kari, and Katherine Amanda Meehan; her brother, Rocco Marcellino of Watkins Glen; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to her parents, Helen was predeceased by her husband, Charles L. Human Sr.; her brothers, Joseph and John Marcellino; her sister, Rose Huber; and sisters-in-law Teddie Marcellino and Lucille Marcellino.

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

Obituary: Margaret Donnelly

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

Margaret “Maggie” Donnelly

Margaret “Maggie” Donnelly passed away peacefully at the age of 95 on Saturday, January 30, 2010.

She is survived by her son Michael Donnelly and his wife Bonnie of Odessa, NY; daughter Marie Ames and her husband Dan of Verona, NY; and sister Evelyn Miles of Maryland. She also had six grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. Margaret’s husband Eugene passed away in 1974.

Margaret was born in 1914 in Glen Burnie, Maryland, and lived in Montour Falls for over 45 years. She was a member of the Montour Falls Methodist Church and was also a Charter Member of the Montour Falls Moose Lodge. She was an avid bird watcher, liked reading, and enjoyed working with young children as a volunteer teacher’s aide at B.C. Cate elementary school.

Arrangements are being handled by the Ness-Sibley Funeral Home in Trumansburg. In keeping with Margaret’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. Those wishing to make a donation in her memory may consider the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility in Montour Falls or a charity of your choice.

The family wishes to thank and recognize the staff at The Falls Home and the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility for the compassionate and highest quality care extended to Margaret during the later years of her life.

Man charged in meth case; motel room scene of probe

MONTOUR FALLS, Feb. 3 -- State Police and other investigators were gathered outside a room at the Relax Inn Wednesday as a CCSERT team removed material from the room in a methamphetamine case that had resulted in a man's arrest hours earlier.

BCI Investigator Joe Kelly said the arrest of the man -- Frank N. Barra, 31, of Corning -- came early Wednesday morning in Montour Falls during a traffic stop on Main Street. The investigation led police to the motel, where they exercised a search warrant for the room, which Kelly said had been rented by Barra.

Inside the room, Kelly said, was an "inactive meth lab," meaning there were ingredients present for starting a meth operation, but not for finishing it. The CCSERT unit (the Contaminated Crime Scene Emergency Response Team from the State Police) arrived on site late in the morning, and started determining what items were potentially hazardous.

A hazardous-waste team had been dispatched from the Buffalo area, Kelly said, to remove hazardous items to a dump site outside this area. Non-hazardous items would be held by State Police as evidence.

Montour Falls firefighters were present outside the motel "as a precaution," said Kelly, who explained that ingredients used in making meth are highly flammable.

He said the motel owners were not involved in the case. The motel is located at the corner of Rts. 224 and 14 in Montour Falls.

Barra was arraigned in Montour Village Court on two felony charges -- Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, 3rd Degree, and Criminal Possession of Marijuana, 3rd Degree -- and sent to Schuyler County Jail in lieu of bail. Further charges were pending, Kelly said.

Photo in text: Members of the State Police Contaminated Crime Scene Emergency Response Team outside the motel Wednesday afternoon.

Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards is chosen as Conservation Farmer of the Year

Congressman Massa addresses SWCD's annual banquet. Govt.

Special to Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Feb. 2 -- Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards is the recipient of the 2009 Conservation Farmer of the Year award presented by the Schuyler County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) at its Annual Luncheon held Monday at the Human Services Complex in Montour Falls.

The award is “meant to recognize farmers who have been committed to conservation for a number of years,” said Elaine Dalrymple, District Field Manager, who presented this year’s award.

Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards -- a grape grower and winery in the Town of Hector -- is owned by Elaine Hazlitt and her son, Doug Hazlitt, and daughter, Leigh Hazlitt Triner. John Santos, their vineyard manager, was also recognized.

“Nearly everyone in Schuyler County knows that the Hazlitt family is one of the oldest farm families in the county, with a long tradition of protecting their natural resources,” said Anthony J. Specchio, Chairman of the Schuyler SWCD Board of Directors. “This farm uses cover crops and mulch between their vineyard rows and they keep their headland areas vegetated to prevent soil erosion. They use integrated pest management (IPM) and nutrient management practices to reduce pesticide and nutrient runoff, and even produce their own compost, mixing grape pomace with horse manure.”

Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM), a statewide program helping farm families continue to farm cleaner and greener in today’s globally competitive environment, has been embraced by Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards, says Jerry Verrigni, District Manager. “They have participated in all levels or tiers of AEM, from planning to implementation and evaluation of best management practices. They have installed an agrichemical mixing facility to prevent pesticide spills, they are presently working with SWCD on evaluating all their pesticides for runoff and leaching potential from vineyard sites, and they participate in Vine Balance, an AEM program that promotes sustainable practices by growers, processors and wineries."

This is the third annual Conservation Farmer award since the District revived its recognition program started years ago. "We feel it is very important to recognize the efforts of our farmers to protect the environment,” says Dalrymple. “Today’s farms may look different than those of past generations, but new technology doesn’t replace age-old stewardship practices -- and Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards is a wonderful example of a farm carrying on the tradition of conservation started generations ago.”

“Just like my father, grandfather and great grandfathers did for their children, I am doing the right things to keep this land in farming and to be a good neighbor,” said Doug Hazlitt. “Protecting soil and water is just good business; we make our living from the land and we care about protecting our soil and water resources for future generations.”

Also recognized at the Annual Luncheon were Dick Winnett, Coordinator of the Finger Lakes Resource Conservation and Development Council, who received the Service Award for his years of assistance to the District; and Josh Hornesky, Soil Conservationist with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, who received the Merit Award for his recent help to the District in installing best management practices on farms.

Photos in text:

Top: The 2009 Conservation Farmers of the Year award was presented to Doug Hazlitt, left, co-owner of Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards, and vineyard manager John Santos. Not shown are co-owners Elaine Hazlitt and Leigh Hazlitt Triner.

Bottom: From left: Josh Hornesky, Soil Conservationist with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, recipient of the 2009 Merit Award; Anthony J. Specchio, Chairman of the Schuyler County Soil and Water Conservation District Board of Directors; and Richard Winnett, Coordinator of the Finger Lakes Resource Conservation and Development Council, recipient of the 2009 Service Award. (Photos provided)

Kelsey Wood, right, and her mother Cyndy discuss the food selection -- pasta made to order -- with a chef at Veraisons Thursday night.

Warm fellowship on a cold night

DUNDEE, Jan. 29 -- It was bitterly cold outside, but the inside of Glenora's Veraisons Restaurant Thursday night was warm -- with stove-top flames heating skillets containing hand-picked pasta concoctions, and with the warmth of camaraderie.

"Friends and family. Do you need anything else?" said Tom Phillips, the night's Celebrity Chef and, in his daytime job, Superintendent of the Watkins Glen School District.

Phillips indeed had family present -- his wife, Lisa, and daughter, Halle, among other relatives -- and he had friends. There were scores from Schuyler County, and a group from Elmira.

"Those are people I've known for years, when I was growing up in Elmira," he said, pointing to a gathering of several men and women at the pasta preparation tables.

Those tables are where Veraisons' chefs were hard at work, preparing tasty-looking dishes of pasta, order by order. The going was a little slow because more than a hundred folks had reservations, and dozens more were walk-ins. But nobody was complaining. "We had salad while we waited," said one person in the pasta line.

"Look at this crowd," said Phillips, whose chef abilities were put in the background by the professional chefs -- a staff led by executive chef Orlando. What Phillips was doing when approached for an interview was visiting with the diners, most of whom he knows. He took his guest role seriously -- and had in fact helped promote the evening through an article in the Star-Gazette on Tuesday.

Part of the proceeds of the night go to the charity of Phillips' choice -- which is the Spirit of Schuyler, which provides emergency funds to county residents in need. On hand Thursday night were members of that volunteer organization.

The Pasta Night-Guest Chef program is in its fourth year at Veraisons. It is held weekly from January through April. Phillips was a guest chef once before -- last year.

"This is great," he was saying Thursday night. "Look at the turnout. And it's a wonderful cause."

Photos in text: Among the diners were (top, from left) Max Neal and Betty Vinti and (bottom) Kristine Somerville.

Left: Chef Phillips tends to a flaming skillet. Right: Phillips with his wife Lisa and daughter Halle.

New member

The Watkins-Montour Lions Club inducted a new member -- Kevin McKeown -- at its Jan. 25th meeting at the Harbor Hotel. McKeown's wife, Jennifer, joined the club in September. Both were sponsored by club member Emily Grimmke. From left: Lions Club President Tom McGarry, Grimmke, Jennifer McKeown and Kevin McKeown. The Lions, who meet the second and fourth Monday of every month, are a service organization always looking for new members. (Photo provided)

Obituary: Deborah J. Krasniewski

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

Deborah J. Krasniewski

Age 53, of Montour Falls and formerly of Addison, passed away on January 22, 2010.

Deb was born in Auburn, NY, the daughter of Harry and Lillian Livermore. She grew up in Elmira and later moved to Addison and Montour Falls. She loved her family, often taking her grandchildren, family and friends fishing.

Deb was a talented crafts person; and enjoyed Native American ceremonies. She loved to celebrate life and enjoyed making many memories with her friends and family.

She was predeceased by her loving companion, Theodore Krasniewski; father Harry; brothers and sister, Joe, Harry, Jeff and Glenna Livermore; and granddaughter Cassandra French. She is survived by her mother, Lillian Livermore of Lindley; children Lillian (Dean) Pauley of Burdett, Christi (Dale) French of Watkins Glen, Stephanie Lawson of Montour Falls, Alisha (Bill Grist) Lawson of Addison, and Stephen Lawson of Avoca; sisters and brother, Romaine (Valentine) Salaman of Waterloo, Gale (Jerry) Anders of Ringgold, GA, Lucinda Livermore of Elmira, and Timothy (Ann) Livermore of Olympia, WA; nine 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, January 27, from 6:00-8:00pm. A funeral service will immediately follow at 8:00pm.

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

Two containers rested alongside Rt. 224 in Odessa after striking the overpass.

Flatbed load hits overpass, goes flying

ODESSA, Jan. 24 -- For the second time in mere months, a flatbed trailer load has struck the railroad overpass in Odessa. The accident occurred Saturday afternoon.

This time, the load -- instead of excavation equipment -- was large containers used by scrapyards. They were being hauled from Geneva to Pennsylvania by a driver for Penn's Best of Meshoppen, Pa., located southeast of Wyalusing.

The driver and a passenger -- both declined to identify themselves to the media -- said they had driven the load of four containers south from Geneva and through Watkins Glen, only to come to an abrupt halt in Odessa.

The men noted that the overpass height is not marked -- standard, a Department of Transportation spokesman said after the September accident, for overpasses that meet state-road height regulations.

"We were going really slow," said the passenger. "We were almost past the overpass, but caught it about a foot short of going through."

Two of the four containers went flying from the vehicle, landing on the side of the road -- one parallel to the roadway, and one on an angle down in a ditch. Its back flap was twisted, and a nearby road sign was flattened.

State troopers were on the scene, interviewing the driver and passenger, and waiting for some help to arrive to remove the containers from the roadside. A check later in the night, well after dark, showed that the container nearest the road was gone, but that the damaged one remained in the ditch.

The accident has echoes of the one on Sept. 3, when an excavator -- being carried west -- hit the overpass and was ripped from its truck's flatbed. The equipment was extensively damaged.

No injury was reported in the September accident, and there was none Saturday.

"Nah," said the passenger. "Like I said: We were going slow."

Photos in text:

Top: The Penn's Best truck pulled into the Odessa-Montour bus-garage lot after the accident.

Bottom: The back flap of one of the scrapyard containers was left twisted after the collision.

Obituary: Kathryn R. Doolittle

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

Kathryn R. Doolittle

Age 91, of Watkins Glen, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 19, 2010.

Kathryn was born in Odessa, NY on May 11, 1918, the daughter of Charles and Harriett Rundle. She retired as the Commissioner of Social Services of Schuyler County. Throughout her lifetime, she served on several committees, boards, groups and civic organizations related to her profession and her family.

Although recognized for her many volunteer efforts, she was especially proud of these three awards: Zonta Women of Achievement in 1993; Office for the Aging Volunteer of the Year in 2001; and New York Women of Distinction by Senator John R. Kuhl, Jr. in 2002.

She was predeceased by her husband, John M. Doolittle, in 1995. She is survived by children Karen Bartone of Watkins Glen; John B. Doolittle (Barb Donnell) of St. Joseph, MO; Peggy (Jim) Scott of Burdett; and Cheri Doolittle of Albany; friend David Bartone; grandchildren Lisa (Jason) Confer of Crofton, MD; Tony (Sue) Bartone of Corning; Nick Bartone of Harrisburg, PA; and Kyle, Colleen and Collin Scott of Orlando, FL; great-grandchildren Chad and Tate Confer; also Jordan, and Nicky and Cal Bartone.

The family will receive friends at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen, on Friday, January 22, from 6:00-8:00pm. A funeral service will immediately follow at 8:00pm. Burial will be at Lakeview Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes you may consider a memorial donation in Kathryn's name be made to the Schuyler Outreach Food Pantry, c/o “Catholic Charities of Schuyler County Food Pantry,” 112 Tenth St., Watkins Glen, NY 14891.

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

Obituary: C. Edward Coon

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

C. Edward Coon

Age 98, of Beaver Dams died peacefully on January 18, 2010.

Calling hours will be held Thursday, January 21, from 5-8 p.m. at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen; with a funeral service on Friday at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Ed was born in Beaver Dams to Ethel Smith and George Coon and raised on the family farm.

Ed was predeceased by two brothers, Liston and Justin Coon, and a sister, Winifred Coon Elder. He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Florence "Torncie." Thurston Coon. He is also survived by three children and their spouses, Gary Coon (Rahno) of North Carolina, Linda Austin (Charles) of Massachusetts, and Amy Gee (James) of Beaver Dams. Ed, known as "Baump" by his grandchildren, is survived by grandchildren Pam Snyder, Jennifer Reinhardt, Lisa Coole, Amy Sheppard, Danielle Austin, Paul Ruocco, Holly Gee, and Anya Malnoske, as well as by 14 great grandchildren.

Ed graduated from Northside Blodgett High School in 1930, riding the train everyday from Beaver Dams to Corning. Later Ed went on to study at Geneseo Normal School, earning his teaching certificate in 1938. He taught in the one-room schoolhouse in Beaver Dams and later went on to serve as principal at Hammondsport High School, where he also coached the baseball team. Ed returned to Beaver Dams in 1946, where he built houses on speculation. During this time he also drove school bus for his father-in-law, Frank Thurston, transporting local teens to high school in Corning.

In 1959 Ed founded Coon Travel Trailer, bringing the excitement and newness of recreational vehicles to this region. In 1965 he and his wife and youngest daughter flew to California, took delivery of and drove back one of the first Class A motorhomes manufactured to sell at his business.

Ed was a founding member of the Beaver Dams Fire Department, helping to construct the original firehouse. He was also a lifetime member of the Beaver Dams Methodist Church, where in his youth he was actively involved in church camps and activities.

Over the course of two years beginning in 1938, Ed and his wife Torncie built a two-bedroom log cabin for their young family which still stands today. The logs were felled by Ed and skidded to the home site by his wife. This log cabin home was featured in the magazine Better Homes and Gardens in 1948. Later the log cabin museum was furnished with turn of the century items and opened as a museum for all to enjoy.

Ed and his wife spent many years camping with the Shanty Shifters and FMCA, once in their retirement years, driving their motorhome to Mexico. He and his wife were well known for their dancing at the outdoor concerts in Watkins Glen. Ed was involved in the Watkins Glen Senior Citizens Bowling League and was a 20-year participant in the Senior Olympic Games. For many years, Ed and his wife hosted children through the Fresh Air Children's Organization, bringing children from New York City to the country for a few weeks in the summer.

Ed could entertain others for hours with stories of his childhood and the years gone by in Beaver Dams.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Beaver Dams Fire Department orto The Arc of Schuyler.

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

Obituary: Paul 'Sonny' Barber, Jr.

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

Paul “Sonny” Barber, Jr.

Age 69 of Skyline Drive, Montour Falls, NY passed away Friday, January 15, 2010 at the Arnot Ogden Medical Center in Elmira.

Friends and family may call from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, January 22 at the Haughey-Wood Funeral Home, 119 Fifth St., Watkins Glen. His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 23 at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church in Watkins Glen. Interment will be at Montour Cemetery in Montour Falls.

Sonny was born in Montour Falls on August 4, 1940, the son of the late Paul and Marie Barber, Sr.. Paul was a self-employed farmer, drove trucks and school buses, and ran a produce stand. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, was a member of the Skyline Hunting Club, the Future Farmers of America and the Mechanics Club, enjoyed dancing and going to auctions, and loved taking trips in the spring to Florida. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by brother, Joseph James Barber.

Sonny is survived by his wife, Linda Barber; his children, Michael Barber, James (Jessie Myers) Barber, David (Marcia Crout) Barber, Lee Ann Barber, Tammy (Al Summers) Barber, and Joseph (April Mace) Barber; grandchildren Errick, Brennon, Mahalamae, Anna, Trace and Jayden; sisters Betty (Stan) Landon and Mary Jane (Mike) Harnas; a brother, Ernie Barber; a special uncle, James Barber; a special aunt, Anna Sgrecci; cousins Henry and Patty Sgrecci; several nieces, nephews, and cousins; his special friends, Bill Yaw, John Chassion, Gerry Purvis, Larry Rinker, Pat Bartholomew and Ed Perry; and many close personal friends too numerous to mention.

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

Obituary: Paul B. Beebe

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

Paul B. Beebe

Age 81, of Odessa, NY, passed away on Friday, January 15, 2010 at Schuyler Hospital, Montour Falls, NY.

Paul was predeceased by his wife Theresa and by siblings Clyde, Joy, Neal and Nelson Beebe. He is survived by children Paul (Winona) Beebe of Montour Falls and Roxanne Edsall (Wayne Mosher) of Odessa; brother Guy (Ginger) Beebe of Montour Falls; sister Elsie Brewer of Dundee; brother Merton (Gladys) Beebe of Alpine; sisters-in-law Connie Beebe of Horseheads and Marion Beebe of Apalachin; 3 grandchildren, Jason (Emily) Edsall, and Bryon and Amber Beebe; 3 great-grandchildren, Jacob Edsall, and Matthew and Kayla White; and dear friends Donna and Vern Meek of Savona.

Paul served in the United States Army during World War II. He was retired as Schuyler County Highway Superintendent, and was a member of the Mechanics Club of Montour Falls, the Elks B.P.O.E. 1548 of Watkins Glen, and the International Union of Operating Engineers.

The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. Fourth St., Watkins Glen, on Monday, January 18, from 12 noon-2 p.m. A funeral service will be held immediately following at 2 p.m.; Rev. Beverly Karr-Lyon will officiate. Burial will follow at Laurel Hill Cemetery, Odessa, with military honors.

Memorials may be made to Schuyler County Ambulance, P.O. Box 2, Watkins Glen, NY 14891.

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

Obituary: Willis Frost Haring

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

Willis Frost Haring

Age 73, of Watkins Glen, passed away unexpectedly at home on Friday January 15, 2010.

He is survived by his loving wife, Glenna Ergott; children Willis, Matthew, and Lorie Haring, son Raymond (Marcie) Ergott and their children Jim (Holly) and Bob (Lori) Ergott; daughter Sara Kim Andrews (Mike Jayne) and her children Erica and Josh Doolittle; and several other grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind many special friends.

Friends and relatives are invited to call on Tuesday, Jan. 19, from 6-8 p.m. at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen. A funeral service will immediately follow at 8 p.m.; burial will be at Montour Cemetery.

Mr. Haring was retired from the Watkins Glen State Park. Willis loved auctions, the outdoors, feeding his turkeys and caring for his chickens.

Memorials may be made to the American Kidney Foundation or to a charity of one’s choice.

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

Obituary: Albert P. Stooks

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

Albert P. Stooks

Age 91, of Watkins Glen, died Sunday, January 10, 2010 at Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility, Montour Falls.

He is survived by his children, Albert “Gene” and wife Lonie Stooks, of Wolcott, Patsy (Richard) Kibler of Corning, and Phyllis (Dean) Laughlin of Bradenton, FL; 8 grandchildren and several
great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Albert served in the United States Army in World War II in Germany and France. He was a member of the VFW Post 2674 and American Legion Post 555 of Watkins Glen.

He worked as a heavy-equipment operator for International Salt and later Akzo in Watkins Glen.

A private graveside service with military honors will be held at Elmwood Cemetery in Caton at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements are by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen (www.Royce-Chedzoy.com)

Obituary: Elizabeth Ethel McKee

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

Elizabeth Ethel McKee

Age 53, of Watkins Glen, passed away December 31, 2009 as the result of an automobile accident.

Elizabeth “Betsy” McKee is survived by 5 children, Melita Greenleaf, Jason Greenleaf, Rachel Greenleaf, Michelle Benavides and David Greenleaf; four grandchildren, Alexae and Steven Greenleaf and Calvin and Alessandra Benavides; her mother, Ahava McKee; siblings Deborah Maynard, Rita McKee, Timothy McKee, Philip McKee, Anna Mori, Joel McKee, Phoebe Morrison, Nathaniel McKee, and Jed McKee; many nieces and nephews, and many, many friends. She was predeceased by her father, Robert McKee, and sister, Ruth Frouman.

Elizabeth was a kind and compassionate woman who loved her hometown of Watkins Glen, and the Finger Lakes region. She raised her children on her idyllic second-generation family farm in Reading Center, and cherished outdoor activities, including sailing, gorge swimming, camping, and gardening.

She was devoted to health and wellness and worked as a Registered Nurse at Schuyler Hospital and through home health care agencies; she was the first Massage Therapist in Schuyler County and taught Nutrition through Cornell Cooperative Extension. She had an avid interest in the mind-body connection to wellness and spoke passionately on this topic.

Elizabeth had a deep, true love for people, taking as much of an interest in new acquaintances as dear friends, and was particularly interested in the stories of individuals with illnesses and the elderly. She epitomized the concept of giving back to one’s community, and brightened the lives of so very many people.

The family will receive friends and relatives on Saturday, January 9, from 2 pm-4 pm at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 East 4th St., Watkins Glen, followed by a Memorial Service at 4:00pm at the funeral home. A reception will follow at the conclusion of services at St. Mary’s of the Lake Parish Center, 10th Street and Decatur.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Elizabeth’s memory to Southern Tier Hospice, 11751 East Corning Rd., Corning, NY 14830, (607) 962-3100, www.sthospice.org.

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

Obituary: James M. Powers

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

James M. Powers

Age 70, of Watkins Glen, passed away at home on Tuesday, January 5, 2010.

He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Ruth (Shultz) Powers; three children, Rebecca (John) Pezzulo of Seneca Falls, Wendy (Mike) Didas of Dansville, and Michael (Jamie) Powers of Watkins Glen; a brother, Thomas (Alice) Powers of Hector; eight grandchildren, Jessica and T.J. Pezzulo, Margorie, Sabrina and Hope Didas, and Quincy, Jacob and Joshua Powers; and many special friends.

There are no prior visiting hours. A memorial service will be held at the First Presbyterian Church, 520 N. Decatur St., Watkins Glen at 10:00am on Saturday, January 9, 2010; Rev. Beverly Karr-Lyon will officiate. A reception will be held following services.

Jim was born on August 12, 1939, the son of Bernard and Lucile Powers. He was a graduate of Watkins Glen High School Class of 1957. Following school, he entered the United States Navy, where he honorably served with the Seabees. Jim served as a New York State Trooper from 1961 to 1981, last serving with Troop E in Horseheads, NY.

He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Watkins Glen, the Mechanics Club of Montour Falls, and the Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 426 of Montour Falls, and a lifetime member of the Elks, B.P.O.E. 1548 of Watkins Glen..

In lieu of flowers, those wishing may consider a donation in his memory to the American Cancer Society, or in honor of his granddaughter Quincy Powers, to the Friedriech’s Ataxia Research Alliance, 102 Pickering Way, Suite 200, Exton, PA 19341.

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

The recent Youth Court induction ceremony. (Photo provided)

Schuyler Youth Court inducts 7 members

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Dec. 24 -- The Schuyler County Youth Court recently inducted seven new members.

Caitlyn Lawton, Michel Wead, Mackenie Moss, Lucy Craig, Kristyn Pennhollow, Ethan Clark and Megan Dupuy were sworn in by Town of Reading Center Justice Raymond Berry. The ceremony wrapped up a six-week training course where prospective members learned about different areas of the justice system.

The Schuyler County Youth Court is a volunteer program made up of youths aged 13-18 from around Schuyler County. These youths hear actual cases which come from local agencies such as the Sheriff's Department and from county schools, and then determine sentencing for the offenders, mostly through community service.

The Youth Court on average hears between 10 and 15 cases per year and currently has 28 members consisting of youths from both the Odessa-Montour and Watkins Glen schools.

For more information about Youth Court, contact Adam Lawton at 607-535-6801.

Odessa 6-year-old helps rescue her mother after car crash

By Charlie Haeffner

ODESSA, Dec. 15 -- We have a young heroine in our midst.

Her name is Hannah Hubbell, and she's 6 years old -- a first-grader at B.C. Cate Elementary School. She lives on Speedway in Odessa.

What she did was this: She helped save her mother in the wake of a car crash.

The crash occurred at midafternoon Sunday, during a freezing rain. The car, a four-door 1998 Mercury Sable driven by Hannah's mother, Holly Hubbell, hit black ice along Route 224 as Holly was driving eastbound between Odessa and Van Etten. It slid off the road, over an embankment and into a tree alongside a pond, coming to rest out of sight of the roadway. Holly was pinned in the car, in and out of consciousness, and seriously injured.

Hannah had been seated in the back on the driver's side of the car -- next to a friend named Summer, also 6 -- and she was initially stuck, her ankle caught between the floor and the door, where the side of the car had buckled. Hannah managed to wriggle loose, though, and climbed out of the car through a broken window, scrambled up the embankment and flagged down a pickup truck.

Since there was no cell service there, the truck driver raced off to find a residence from which he could call 911, and Hannah returned to the wrecked car, freeing her young friend. Together, they went back up to the road and flagged down more vehicles -- the drivers of which kept an eye on them until rescuers could arrive to extricate the mother from the wreckage.

Six years old. Imagine.

"I think it's great that such a young girl had the presence of mind to go up to the road and flag down traffic," said Schuyler County Sheriff William Yessman, "and then go back and get her friend out. A heroine? Yes, I would call her that. For a 6-year-old to do something like that and not panic after a traumatic accident -- with her mother in pain and unable to get out -- is remarkable. Most 6-year-olds would want to stay with their mother."

Once Holly was freed -- with help from a Jaws Of Life hydraulic tool brought to the scene by the Odessa Fire Department -- she and the girls were transported to Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre. The two young girls were treated and released; Summer had but a scratch, and Hannah a bruised ankle. But Holly was admitted with some serious injuries: 10 broken ribs, a lacerated spleen and a punctured lung. She was still in the Intensive Care Unit Tuesday -- but her husband, Robert Hubbell, was hopeful that she might be moved to a regular room by Wednesday.

"We're waiting to see what the spleen wants to do," he said. "If it's healing, then we're on the right track. If it isn't, then they'll have to remove it. They said they'd know in 48 hours, but now they're giving it another day. It's showed signs of improvement, and if it continues to, then they'll move her out of ICU."

He said his wife was in and out of consciousness during the accident, and thus didn't recall many details. He conceded that the tree that was struck was both a curse and a blessing. It caused the injuries sustained by Holly, but prevented the vehicle from reaching the pond, which could have been worse.

He said he doesn't know who the pickup-truck driver was, but would like to find out so he can thank him for helping.

*****

Robert Hubbell kept his daughters Hannah and Kylee -- a fifth-grader at Hanlon Elementary -- out of school for the two days following the crash, both because of the trauma and to have them with him at the hospital.

Whiile they were there on Monday, they missed the arrival at B.C. Cate of investigating deputy Andrew Yessman, who was delivering some gifts -- mood pencils and a frisbee among them -- to Hannah at the school. He left them with the principal.

Andrew's father -- Sheriff Yessman -- plans to honor Hannah Thursday, while he is at the B.C. Cate school as part of a Lions Club program during lunchtime. The Sheriff said he -- along with Andrew, who will stop by -- will present Hannah at that time with a Certificate of Appreciation for the brave and important thing she did -- the role she played in helping to save her mother.

Meanwhile, on Tuesday, while keeping an eye on his wife and her progress at Packer Hospital, Robert Hubbell was both anxious about his wife ... and thankful that help had arrived so quickly after the accident.

Was he impressed with Hannah's actions?

"Oh, yes," he said. "I'm a proud father."

Photos in text: Hannah Hubbell and the wrecked car. (Photos provided)

Roets: We need to address suicide problem

WATKINS GLEN, Dec. 11 -- The Schuyler County Director of Public Health and Community Services says it's time for the county -- and the public in general -- to address and try to find a solution to the problem of suicide.

"We don't talk about suicide, and we don't ask about suicide, but it's around us," George Roets told Rotarians at the weekly luncheon meeting of the Watkins-Montour Rotary Club. "It shouldn't be somethng secret, something covered up. We need awareness that it's a problem, and we need to shine a light on it."

Toward that end, he said, two programs to train people to help in the effort have been started locally, with more sessions planned. One is called safeTALK, and the other is called ASIST. Roets said he is hoping to get the word out, to generate interest among the general populace. The safeTALK training is much shorter and much less intensive than the ASIST training, which involves intervention skills.

"We hope to train people and start to have a positive effect," he said, noting that the need is evident in the damage done to a community whenever a suicide occurs. The feelings of guilt in surviving family members, the degree of training that is lost with the victim, the loss of future earnings, and so on -- all impact a community.

The problem spans age groups from young to old, he added. He didn't have local statistics, but said he would be disseminating some soon. In the meantime, he hopes to see training proceed, the organization of a steering committee to help get the word out that suicide needs to be combatted, and the spread of an awareness of the extent of the problem and how it can be fought.

The next safeTALK session will be Jan. 19 from 12:30-4 p.m. in the Human Services Complex, 323 Owego St., Montour Falls. Registration is required, as space is limited. Call Chris Burns at 607-535-8282 to register, or email him at cburns@co.schuyler.ny.us

Photo in text: George Roets addresses Rotarians.

Assemblyman Tom O'Mara dropped by to congratulate the honorees, including Max Neal (right).

Schuyler Hall of Fame inducts Neal, Callanan and Howell

WATKINS GLEN, Oct. 29 -- The Schuyler County Hall of Fame formally inducted three of the county's most notable citizens into its illustrious ranks Wednesday in a formal ceremony at Seneca Lodge.

Max Neal, the Honorable John Patrick Callanan Sr. and James D. Howell were added to the roll of honor, joining 35 previous honorees. The trio's induction was announced several weeks ago by the Hall's Selection Committee. The committee reviewed 13 nominations.

The ceremony, emceed by Brian J. O'Donnell, featured introductions by Hall of Famer Kenneth Wilson for Max Neal, by County Judge J.C. Argetsinger for Judge Callanan, and by Jeff Confer for Jim Howell.

Both Neal and Howell presented remarks, as did a daughter of Judge Callanan. The judge has been ill and was unable to attend.

Under joint sponsorship through Schuyler County and the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce, the Hall of Fame was established in 1995 to honor individuals who:

-- are or have been residents of Schuyler County;
-- have distinguished themselves and in doing so, brought reflected prestige and honor to Schuyler County; and…
-- have been actively involved in their field of endeavor for a significant number of years in Schuyler County.

Photo in text: Inductee Jim Howell

A brief look at the 2009 inductees

A brief look at our 2009 inductees with a partial list of their accomplishments and affiliations:

Max Neal:

--President of the Schuyler County Chamber of Commerce (now the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce) 1991-98; Vice President of Tourism 2001-2004; Interim Chamber President in both 2008 and 2009;
--Schuyler Hospital Health Foundation Executive Director 1999-2000; “Family of Friends” Chair 2004-2008; and Board Chair 2009-Present;
--NYS Distinguished “Woman of the Year” in 2005; a “Paul Harris Fellow” awarded by Watkins-Montour Rotary Club, and American Red Cross “Volunteer of the Year”;
--Member Schuyler County League of Women Voters (President 2009), American Red Cross Board, Arts of the Southern Tier Board, Watkins-Montour Rotary, and Schuyler County Empire Zone Board;
--Member Corning Community College Development Foundation Board and Elmira College President’s Council;

The Honorable John P. Callanan Sr.

--Schuyler County Judge, Surrogate & Family Court 1983-1997;
--N.Y. State Assemblyman 1964-1966 (the last NYS Assemblyman to represent Schuyler County alone);
--Watkins Glen Board of Education Member 1966-1977 (President 1971-1976);
--Past President – Schuyler County Chamber of Commerce;
--Watkins-Montour Rotary Club, Past President and a “Paul Harris” fellow;
--Member, Boy Scouts Board (recipient of “Silver Beaver” award), early supporter of the Squires (Drum & Bugle Corps), Committee Member to help create the Watkins Glen Golf Course, and Member of the Southern Tier Library Board;
--Member, St. Mary’s Parish Council
--Initiated CASA – Special Advocate for Children in Schuyler County Family Court.

James D. Howell

--Environmental Health Director for Schuyler County for 35 plus years; assisted many with land use for new and existing housing and for environmental health & safety;
--Master of Ceremonies for Italian-American Festival and Montour Falls Firemen’s annual parade for many years;
--Volunteer for The Arc of Schuyler in promoting its annual golf tournament;
--Awards include being named a “Paul Harris Fellow” by Watkins-Montour Rotary Club (their highest honor) and the Seneca Lake Pure Water Association honor of “Seneca Lake Protector”;
--Has been or still is a member of the Montour Falls Planning Board and Montour Falls Fire Department, First Presbyterian Church and Schuyler Hospital Foundation Board of Directors, and many others…

Plaques – with formal pictures of each honoree along with a number of their achievements – will be added to the “Hall of Fame” display at the Schuyler County Office Building. They were also on display at the ceremony.

Photos in text: From top, Max Neal, Judge John P. Callanan, James D. Howell

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

Among the many on hand to honor the inductees:

From left: County Administrator Tim O'Hearn, Tony Vickio, Hall of Famer Jean Argetsinger

Providing introductory remarks for the honorees:

From left: J.C. Argetsinger (for Judge Callanan), Ken Wilson (for Max Neal), and Jeff Confer (for Jim Howell)

Some of their remarks:

J.C. Argetsinger, about Judge Callanan: "In politics, he was always positive. He won his voters one by one. He'd go out and talk to them. He enhanced every office he went into. He had a certain moral dignity...He could hold his own with the greatest intellectuals, but he had a common touch.

Ken Wilson, about Max Neal: "She gets involved whenever and wherever she is needed. She loves the community and is loved back...Max, you have made a difference."

Jeff Confer, about Jim Howell: "He's always whistling and singing a happy tune... He is devoted to the people of Schuyler County. He is proud of his community and the county he calls home."

Emcee Brian J. O'Donnell.

Marx named to Catholic Charities post

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Aug. 24 -- Former Corning Incorporated executive Paul Marx has been hired to become Director of Catholic Charities of Schuyler County effective Sept. 1.

The appointment was announced by Marie Finnerty, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of Catholic Charities of Chemung and Schuyler Counties.

Marx (pictured at right) recently retired from Corning Inc. after 32 years in various engineering, marketing and executive management positions. He elected to take early retirement to pursue a second career in human services.

According to Finnerty, Marx is familiar with the work of Catholic Charities, having served as a member of the Boards of Directors of the former Catholic Charities of the Southern Tier, the Diocesan Catholic Charities organization and most recently the Catholic Charities of Steuben County.

Marx, who has bachelor's and master's degrees in Engineering from the University of Notre Dame, said he is "excited about my new career in the human services sector and, especially, my new role with Catholic Charities. I look forward to working for the continued economic development of Schuyler County and the providing of needed services to those in the community with our staff and the many people who are in public service in the county and villages.”

Marx and his wife, Alice, live in Corning. They have eight children and two grandchildren.

Dr. John Carozza, chairperson of the Catholic Charities of Schuyler County Advisory Council, said of Marx: “We are delighted to have Paul join our team. He is a skilled executive with a strong desire to serve people in need in this county. We look forward to working with him.”

Catholic Charities has served Schuyler County since 1980. It provides a range of human services, including Emergency Services (Schuyler Outreach and Nutrition Outreach and Education), Victim Services (First Step) and Youth Development Services (Watkins Glen Youth Center, Teen Center, 21st Century Base Camp, Runaway and Homeless Program, Partnership For Youth and PINS Diversion).

Photo in text: Paul Marx (Photo provided)

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.