Monday, February 25, 2008

Farm-City Day organizers seeking volunteers

The Steuben County Farm-City Day Committee is seeking volunteers to help to organize this year's event, scheduled for Sept. 20.

With more than 1,600 people attending last year, more help is needed in planning for 2008. Volunteers are needed for children's activities, educational demonstrations, fundraising, publicity and more.

Farm-City Day is a one-day event held annually at a Steuben County farm. Farm-City Day is designed to be an educational, fun day on the farm where the public gets a first-hand, behind-the-scenes look at how a farm operates.

Anyone with an interest in promoting Steuben County agriculture is welcome and encouraged to attend the next planning meeting.

The next committee meeting is 1 p.m. March 19 in the South Conference Room of the Steuben County Office Building in Bath. If you are interested in helping plan Farm-City Day but are unable to attend this meeting, contact Jim Grace at Cornell Cooperative Extension at (607) 664-2316.

Watson Homestead Readies for its 2008 Elderhostel Season

For release…….February 22, 2008

Watson Homestead Readies for its 2008 Elderhostel Season

“Elderhostel” may be one of the most misunderstood names to the uninitiated, but for thousands of seniors throughout the country, and for all the staff at Watson Homestead, “Elderhostel’ means a great deal.

2008 marks the 26th year that Watson Homestead Retreat and Conference Center, located in East Campbell, will open its doors to groups of seniors who come from all over the country to attend specific weeks of life-long learning programs.

“We’ve just been notified that based on our record-breaking success in 2007, that Watson Homestead is now among the top 50 Elderhostel sites in the country,” said Jenny Monroe, Elderhostel Coordinator. “We’ve been a super site (offering twenty weeks of programs per year) for many years, but to be in the top 50 nationwide is quite an honor.”

Watson Homestead is the largest Elderhostel site in western New York, hosting 787 participants in 2007 who came for 27 program weeks from February to December. “Our most popular programs are Finger Lakes Sampler, Hands-on Glassmaking at the Studio of the Corning Museum of Glass, Corning’s Intergenerational Experience, and Hiking the Finger Lakes Trail,” added Monroe. “Nineteen weeks of these four programs were filled in 2007 which, along with nine other single program weeks, completing our offerings.”

Local Elderhostel programs highlight the Corning Museum of Glass and other major southern Finger Lakes regional attractions. Each program week includes at least 20 hours of lecture and/or experiential learning, plus field trips, activities and camaraderie among the participants, accommodations and home cooking at the Homestead. Elderhostel is an important part of the Homestead’s business profile, amounting to over 40% of annual earned revenue.

What’s In A Name?

Elderhostel, the largest international educational and travel provider for seniors, began humbly in 1975 when two friends combined the traditional European youth hostel concept with that of the respected position of “elders” found in Scandinavian folk schools. Their idea was to use college dorms, devoid of students for the summer, to house groups of senior citizens (over age 55 at present) who would be taught college level short courses by college faculty.

Watson Homestead, Elderhostel add one

Today, Elderhostel offers over 10,000 programs in 100 countries around the world with an average annual student body of 160,000. Since its inauspicious start over 30 years ago, over four million seniors have chosen to continue learning well into their 60s, 70s, 80s and beyond.

Decades ahead of other senior learning programs, Elderhostel is poised to take advantage of the bell-curve of baby boomers reaching retirement age. “I never cease to be amazed at the energy and vitality of the “elders’ who come to Watson Homestead. They are inspiring! Many participants sign up for two or three programs per year and find consistent high quality instruction and exciting new people who are interested in the same things they are,” notes Monroe.

Locals Are Invited Too

When individual courses do not fill to capacity, regional seniors are invited to join in. Current programs on sale of this type include:

Great Swing Bands, Memorable Radio Comedians and the History of American Aviation, March 30 – April 4, 2008
Survey sounds and images of the great dance bands of the Swing Era, a dynamic period of American cultural history, using authentic original recordings. Miller, Shaw, Ellington, Goodman, the Dorseys, Basie and other giants will be covered. Laugh again at wireless comedy-variety shows, comedy teams and their sketches, situation comedy and Jack Benny. Radio historian shares his extensive collection and will direct us in a radio play performance with sound effects! Pioneer aviator, Glenn Curtiss; the motorless flight history from the National Soaring Museum; and the 20th century military collection at the Wings of Eagles Warplane Museum provide tangible history as our historian instructor fills in the gaps. Gary Yoggy and Kirk House instruct.

Glass Collectors’ Compendium, April 20-23, 2008
It’s all here in the Crystal City for this program designed for collectors of antique and/or contemporary glass using the expertise of the staff of the Corning Museum of Glass (CMoG); dealers and appraisers; local artists and collectors. Special aspects include extensive use of the CMoG collections; Steuben Glass from 1903 to today; clinics on identification, conservation, photography and packing glass. Learn how to use on-line auction sites to buy/sell glass. Plus create a blown and fused glass object yourself to add to your collection! Bring photos and/or objects for identification and appraisal. Visit hot glass studios and the home of a private collector. Become more knowledgeable in four days about “all the possibilities of glass.” Tom Dimitroff instructs.

Corning’s Intergenerational Experiences Over the Centuries (four dates for 2008)
June 29 to July 4; July 20-25; July 27 to August 1; and August 3-8, 2008
Participate in activities from the daily life of an early 19th century frontier family. Discover glassmaking past and present. Explore the natural setting of Watson Homestead with its 600 acres, creek, woods and 36’ climbing tower. Hands-on experiences include blacksmithing, open hearth cooking, tin punching and glass blowing and fusing. Field trips to the Corning Museum
Watson Homestead, Elderhostel add two

of Glass with its Studio, Innovation Center and Hot Glass show. Hike down the famous gorge at Watkins Glen. The Benjamin Patterson Inn Museum complex includes 1796 inn, one-room schoolhouse, 1800s log cabin, and agricultural exhibit. At the Glenn Curtiss Museum see “Curtiss Jenny” and other early aeroplanes. Local sightseeing, art activities and a historic architecture guided walk complete this fun-filled week for grandparents and their grandchildren ages 8 to 12.


For more information, schedules and costs, contact Jenny Monroe at (607) 962-0541 ext. 403 or by email at watsonjenny@stny.rr.com.

To view the complete listing of local Elderhostel programs, go to www.watsonhomestead.com and click on the Elderhostel at the Homestead link.

To find the Elderhostel programs offered around the world, go to www.elderhostel.org.



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Watson Homestead Conference and Retreat Center, Inc.
9620 Dry Run Road
Painted Post, NY 14870
(607) 962-0451
www.watsonhomestead.com

The Mission of Watson Homestead, established in 1955, is to provide lodging,
facilities and programs to religious, community, social service and non-profit organizations,
and individuals, for personal, spiritual and educational enrichment
through a mission of Christian hospitality for all.

Statement from Watkins Glen International President Craig Rust Regarding IndyCar Series and Champ Car Merger

Statement from Watkins Glen International
President Craig Rust
Regarding IndyCar Series and Champ Car Merger


“Being not only a promoter but a fan of open wheel racing, I am thrilled to see the merger happen as it is very important to the success of open wheel racing to have one unified series. Watkins Glen International is excited to once again host the 4th of July weekend event with our partner Camping World and believe that our open wheel racing history and heritage, makes us a natural fit for the series on this holiday weekend. With a host of activities scheduled including a Friday night block party, fireworks and musical entertainment, along with all the great racing, we hope that all open wheel racing fans will come out to support the unified series on July 4-6, 2008.”

2008 Susquehanna River Sojourn - Chemung River

The Susquehanna River Sojourn will run tributary Chemung River to the North Branch of the Susquehanna in June 15-21, 2008, kicking off in Corning, NY and ending at Mehoopany, PA.

Over the course of the Sojourn, over 100 paddlers will take part in environmental and educational programs as they journey downriver, including discussions with elected officials aimed at how they plan to improve local water quality.

The public is invited to participate in evening programs and to mingle with Sojourners as they make their way down river. Evening programs educate paddlers and members of the local communities about the importance to protect and restore their local rivers and Chesapeake Bay.

Registration details to be posted soon. Registrations must be completed and returned to the Alliance at least 2 weeks prior to the Sojourn.

Volunteer Opportunities: We can always use volunteers on the Sojourn. Give us two days--Paddle for one! We need: Landing Captains Runners Staff to man registration tables and all kinds of other fun people to help out!

Number of Volunteers to Date: 10

Number of Volunteer Hours: 16

For more information contact: Donna Morelli (717) 737-8622

Monday, February 18, 2008

The Fourth Annual Civil War Encampment

The Fourth Annual Civil War Encampment will take place on March 8 and 9 at the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum of early aviation and local history in Hammondsport, NY. The encampment will include members from various reenactment units, to include the 140th New York Volunteer Infantry, the 9th New York Calvary, the 33rd Virginia Infantry, the 21st Georgia Infantry and the 26th North Carolina Infantry. There will be musket demonstrations, as well as camp life and medical displays.

Richard E. Yott, author of “From Soldiers’ Home to Medical Center: A Glance at the 125 Year History of the Bath Soldier’s Home,” will be available all day on Saturday, March 8, to talk about and sign his book.

Visitors will also be able to enjoy the Civil War Exhibit, “Soldiers of the Southern Tier: From Service to Veteran Organizations,” which is on display from March 7 through May 4, 2008. This exhibit will focus on the local soldiers and their service during and after the Civil War. If anyone has a photo of an ancestor from NY State, from within the Hornell to Elmira area, who was a soldier during the Civil War, and would like to see them included on the “Wall of Honor” during the exhibit, please contact the Curator, Rick Leisenring (curator@glennhcurtissmuseum.org or 607-569-2160).

Open daily from 10-4, the Curtiss Museum is located at 8419 State Route 54, Hammondsport. Admission is $7.50 for adults, $6.00 for seniors 65 and older, and $4.50 for students 7-18. Children 6 and under are free. Group rates are available for 10 or more. 607-569-2160. www.glennhcurtissmuseum.org

IN YOUR EASTER BONNET PARADE!

Imagine That! ’s annual
“IN YOUR EASTER BONNET” Parade!
Saturday, March 15th at noon.
Join the Easter Bunny and come to Imagine That!
wearing your Easter Bonnet, designed at home!
We’ll parade on the sidewalks on Market Street and
end at Imagine That! with Easter treats, Easter crafts
and pictures with the bunny!

For more information call (607)937-4242.

Imagine That! Children’s Shop
86 W. Market Street
Corning, NY 14830

Friday, February 15, 2008

The Great Market Street

A N T I Q U E S A L E
ONE DAY ONLY
Saturday, Feb. 23
10:00AM - 6:00PM

Join us Sat., Feb 23rd for a once a year buying opportunity hosted by the entire Market Street Antique & Collectible dealership. We are marking many of our items down, some significantly, in an effort to thin inventories and make room for more merchandise.

Visit the following shops Sat., Feb 23 for great deals offered for only one day.

94 West Antiques
94 West Market Street

Market St. Antiques & Collectibles
94 & 98 East Market Street

Twin Tiers Antiques Plaza
67 West Market St.

WITH EVERY PURCHASE AT ONE OF THE PARTICIPATING SHOPS YOU WILL RECEIVE DISCOUNT COUPONS FOR THE OTHER TWO SHOPS GOOD FOR ONLY FEB. 23!!

The Great Market Street

A N T I Q U E S A L E
ONE DAY ONLY
Saturday, Feb. 23
10:00AM - 6:00PM

Join us Sat., Feb 23rd for a once a year buying opportunity hosted by the entire Market Street Antique & Collectible dealership.

We are marking many of our items down, some significantly, in an effort to thin inventories and make room for more merchandise. Visit the following shops Sat., Feb 23 for great deals offered for only one day.

94 West Antiques
94 West Market Street

Market St. Antiques & Collectibles
94 & 98 East Market Street

Twin Tiers Antiques Plaza
67 West Market St.

WITH EVERY PURCHASE AT ONE OF THE PARTICIPATING SHOPS YOU WILL RECEIVE DISCOUNT COUPONS FOR THE OTHER TWO SHOPS GOOD FOR ONLY FEB. 23!!

Thursday, February 14, 2008

George Washington’s birthday

Date: February 12, 2008

For more information contact: Jessica Cunningham
Corning-Painted Post Historical Society
(607) 937-5281 or email corningpaintedposthistsoc@verizon.net


Release Date: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


An open house in honor of George Washington’s birthday is slated for Saturday, Feb. 23, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Benjamin Patterson Inn, 59 W. Pulteney St., Corning.

Come join the fun! President Washington and Betsy Ross will be in attendance, and all are invited to share his birthday cake.

Musicians and weavers, artifacts and craft demonstrations will be ongoing during the open house. A light soup lunch will be offered and a cherry bake sale is planned. Honest! There is much to celebrate for both children and adults. Guests will have the opportunity to view our new Italian lace exhibit: Lace, the Spaces Between, which details the story of domestic lace making by Italian immigrants in Corning during the 19th and 20th centuries.

Admission is free. For more information contact Jessica Cunningham at 937-5281 or visit our website at www.pattersoninnmuseum.org.

Monday, February 11, 2008

GLEN CLASHES GO TOE-TO-TOE FOR SPEED TV AWARD

Fans Select Hornish, Jr. vs. Kanaan Over Harvick vs. Montoya

Watkins Glen, NY (February 8, 2008) – Ever since the end of the 2007 racing season at The Glen, fans have debated which altercation was better: the Sam Hornish, Jr. and Tony Kanaan clash following the Camping World Grand Prix at The Glen or the shoving match between Kevin Harvick and Juan Pablo Montoya during the Centurion Boats at The Glen. SPEED TV gave fans the chance to vote for their favorite and by the slimmest of margins, they selected the Hornish, Jr. and Kanaan battle royale the most deserving of the “Temper, Temper” Award. The fist-de-cuffs between Harvick and Montoya finished a close second; 27% of the vote compared to 26%, respectively.

The “Temper, Temper” Award was one of many awarded during the broadcast of the SPEED Performance Awards on the evening of Thursday, February 7. The chance to vote on various categories attracted 100,000 fans and even with that number, the final results of the “Temper, Temper” Award were separated by only one percent. Fans that missed out on the excitement in 2007 must attend this year’s Camping World Grand Prix at The Glen, July 4-6, and Centurion Boats at The Glen, August 7-10. The SPEED Performance Awards will re-air February 15 at 3:00 PM.

Tickets for the racing action at Watkins Glen International are on-sale now! This year the season kicks-off with the Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series, June 6-7 paired with the NASCAR Camping World Series’ East Division on Sunday, June 8. Open-wheel racing returns for the 4th of July weekend during the Camping World Grand Prix at The Glen, July 4-6, and the Centurion Boats at The Glen NASCAR Sprint Cup and Zippo 200 NASCAR Nationwide Series weekend highlights the summer action, August 7-10. For more tickets and more information, please contact the Watkins Glen International ticket office at 866-461-RACE or log on to the official website www.TheGlen.com.

Thursday, February 7, 2008

Enjoy Roman-Style Celebration at Free February 2300° Event

Corning, NY –The Corning Museum of Glass celebrates the opening of its newest exhibition, “Reflecting Antiquity: Modern Glass Inspired by Ancient Rome,” on Thursday, February 21, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., with a free event, 2300°: Roman Remix.

This Roman-inspired evening will feature glassmaking demonstrations, live blues music, and plenty of food and drink.

Eric Meek and Lewis Olson, two of the Museum’s Hot Glass Show gaffers, will use Roman-style glassmaking techniques on the Hot Glass Show stage to illustrate how objects in “Reflecting Antiquity” were made.

The Rhode Island-based band, Roomful of Blues, will perform their combination of jump, swing, blues, R&B and soul in the Museum’s Auditorium. “There's no way you can stay in your seat with grooves like this,” says The Boston Herald.

Decadent Roman-themed food will be available for purchase, along with a bounty of complimentary hors d’oeuvres. A free shuttle bus will run from the Museum’s main parking lot off Rt. 17/I-86, exit 46, until 8:30 p.m.

At 2300o, hot glass gets interesting—and so do things at The Corning Museum of Glass. 2300o is a series of free, themed, art happening events at the Museum and each 2300o evening event features unique demonstrations using hot glass, live music and unique culinary delights.

Upcoming 2300o events and themes include:
March 20 – 2300o: Spring Equinox May 22 – 2300o: Tee Off for Summer (5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.)

The Corning Museum of Glass (www.cmog.org) is home to the world’s most comprehensive and celebrated collection of glass, with more than 45,000 objects reflecting 3,500 years of glassmaking history. An independent, non-profit, educational institution, the Museum is dedicated to the art, history, science, research and exhibition of glass. The Museum is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day and from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the summer. Children 17 and under receive free admission.

Tuesday, February 5, 2008

Radisson Hotel Corning - Open House

Please join us Wednesday, February 20th for our Open House, 5:00pm – 7:00pm.

We will be showcasing our new lobby renovations
and updated guest and meeting rooms!
Meet the staff, enjoy great food and take a tour!

Mark Your Calendars -- Looking Forward to Seeing You!