In This Issue:
8th Annual Donald Brubaker Golf Tournament
Teen Center Fundraiser Tomorrow
Message from New York State
“Glorious T” Press Release
Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance Information Request
BMW Car Rally Here Next Week
Upcoming Events

8th Annual Donald Brubaker Golf Tournament

The Eighth Annual Donald Brubaker Memorial Golf Tournament, coordinated by the Schuyler County Chamber of Commerce/Watkins Glen Promotions is days away. This event, sponsored by Excellus BlueCross BlueShield will be held this Friday, September 19th at the Watkins Glen Golf Course on Route 14, in Watkins Glen. Following a one hour registration, the event will officially begin at 10:00 a.m. with a shotgun start.

For the third year in a row, the sixteen teams of four players each have signed up weeks prior, in anticipation for this popular annual event.

For event information, contact the Schuyler County Chamber of Commerce / Watkins Glen Promotions at (607) 535-3003 or

Events@schuylerny.com

Teen Center Fundraiser Tomorrow

Come support a great cause! Tomorrow, September 18th, from 6:00 -9:00 p.m. there will be a Community Harvest Dinner and Auction Fundraiser - “A Taste of Seneca.” This community event, being held at the Community Center in Watkins Glen, is presented by local chefs, restaurateurs, wineries and businesses.

The cost for this event is $35/ticket plus a live auction and 50/50 raffle. There will be limited tickets available at the door. You can find advanced tickets at Red Newt Cellars, Catholic Charities, The Chamber, or you can call (607) 535-2050. All the proceeds will go to benefit the Schuyler County Teen Center, and will be put towards efforts of keeping the Center running!

Message from New York State

Empire State Development ANNOUNCES 9 PERCENT increase in direct tourism spending for New York State in 2007

Tourism industry growth exceeds $50 billion mark for first time

Empire State Development (ESD) recently announced a 9 percent increase in direct tourism spending for New York State in 2007. Last year visitors spent $51 billion in the local economy, according to a study commissioned by the Department of Economic Development’s Division of Tourism. This includes a $44 billion contribution to the State’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), a 12 percent increase that exceeds the State’s overall GDP growth by 5 percent.

A vital and growing component of the State’s economy, tourism spending has seen exceptional growth for four consecutive years, with the growth rate accelerating over 2005 (8.6%) and 2006 (7.2%). As the ninth largest employer in the state, tourism supported 672,000 jobs, or 6 percent of all employment during 2007, with a total associated income of $26 billion. Tourism generated $6.8 billion in state and local taxes.

The results of the study commissioned by the Division of Tourism follow the Governor’s May announcement of a revitalized long-term marketing strategy for the iconic “I LOVE NY” brand campaign that is anticipated to increase New York State tourism spending to $60 billion by the year 2020. This new direction promotes New York as a high value drive-to destination for 80 million people who live within a 5-hour drive, as well as the influx of Canadian and European travelers who benefit from the exchange rate.

While domestic tourism increased 7 percent last year, overseas and Canadian visitors were the most significant contributors to this growth due in part to this beneficial exchange rate. New York saw a 15 percent jump in overseas visitor spending in 2007 while Canadian spending rose 11 percent. This translates to nearly $14.4 billion in international visitor spending, representing 28 percent of all visitor spending in 2007.

Indicators suggest tourism can continue to bolster the New York State economy despite the current recessionary climate. Canadian and overseas travelers continue to benefit from an extremely favorable exchange rate in 2008 with the US Department of Commerce reporting international arrivals to the United States up 11.5 percent in the first 4 months of this year. Hotel rooms sold and room revenues, a concrete early indicator of the tourism industry performance, show New York State continues to hold steady in the first seven months of 2008, particularly compared to the national average. While the nation has seen declines in rooms sales and only a 3.7% growth in room revenue relative to the first 7 months of 2007, New York room sales rose 3% and revenues grew over 9%. For the critical month of July, room sales were up 4% and revenues were up 11% relative to July of 2007. In addition, employment in Leisure and Hospitality as reported by NYS Department of Labor has grown 1 percent relative to June 2007 amidst stagnation in employment growth statewide and a broader economic slowdown.

“The increase in tourism spending is especially significant in today's tough fiscal climate as it is essential to the overall economic health and vitality of New York State that its tourism industry remains highly competitive,” stated Kenneth A. Schoetz, acting upstate chairman of Empire State Development. “New York’s unique cultural and entertainment offerings are varied and vast enough to fit into any vacation budget, whether it's touring through the Finger Lakes, simply enjoying the sea shore on Long Island or living it up in one of our great cities. The results of the study are very encouraging and prove once again that New York State continues to be a great choice for vacationers everywhere.”

“Tourism continues to be a driving force for economic growth in New York State,” said Avi Schick, Downstate ESDC President. “The strategy we have been pursuing this past year is enabling us to make the best of the current economic situation – exposing domestic travelers who are re-evaluating their travel options to the high-value destinations of New York, and harnessing the influx of international travelers to drive visitation to new parts of the state.”

“With the state’s current economic condition it’s especially critical that we maintain a strong statewide brand and we continue to do that,” said Thomas Ranese, ESDC Chief Marketing Officer. “We are using the best and most up-to-date marketing techniques to increase awareness of the many natural, historic and cultural attributes that New York State has to offer and we are seeing the fruits of our labor. The remarkable growth seen over the past four years proves that New York State’s tourism industry continues to be a valuable asset to the state’s economy.

“Typically, we would expect a letup after such exceptional period of growth. Yet New York has essentially gone from strength to strength over the past four years,” said Adam Sacks, Managing Director of Tourism Economics, the firm commissioned to measure the economic impact of tourism for the state.

For more information on vacation options in New York State, visit www.ILoveNY.com. Media may view elements of the new campaign at thebeat.ILoveNY.com.

"Glorious T" Press Release

Montour Falls, NY – There is cause for celebration in the village of Montour Falls and The Montour Falls Improvement Association welcomes your visit to the Village’s “Glorious T” Historic District.

The district is an off-the-beaten-path treasure centered on the 156 foot tumbling waterfall, Shequagua Falls, in downtown Montour Falls. The Association, a small group of local residents, raised funds, collaborated with local municipal entities, and volunteered many hours towards projects to direct visitors to the district.

Officially placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978, the “Glorious T” is comprised of 24 buildings and Shequagua Falls. Aptly named, the “T” takes the name from its shape: West Main Street forms the stem, and Genesee Street, running north to south, forms its crossbar.

Newly installed gateway street signage and colorful custom-designed pole banners designed by area resident, Kate Bartholomew and sponsored by local businesses guide the visitor through the village. And, a detailed eight page brochure illustrated by local artist Robert O’Neill of O’Neill Gallery takes the traveler on a walking tour of the historic buildings and landmarks.

“Montour Falls is very fortunate to have such a rich history and exceptional architecture.

The Montour Falls Improvement Association hopes that by highlighting the historic district with street and banner signage and a self-guided walking tour brochure visitors and/or tourists will also patronize Main Street businesses,” says the organization’s president John King.

“With the impending re-development of one of the district’s oldest buildings, the Montour House, efforts like this help to spur downtown revitalization,” adds Kelsey Jones, Executive Director of Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development (SCOPED).

The walking tour brochure is available at the Schuyler County Chamber of Commerce, Schuyler County Historical Museum, the Montour Falls Memorial Library and businesses along Main Street in the Village.

The “Glorious T” Historic District is conveniently located on Main Street, just off State Route 14, the byway to Seneca Lake and its bustling wineries, Watkins Glen State Park and the Watkins Glen International race track.

The Montour Falls Improvement Association is a volunteer citizens group dedicated to the restoration, rejuvenation, and preservation of the Village of Montour Falls through community action and involvement. To learn more about the group contact can be made through email at mfiagroup@yahoo.com or by calling (607) 535-2445.

For Additional Information Contact: Antoinette Di Ciaccio, call 607-535-7886 or email

adiciaccio@yahoo.com

Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance Information Request

Our partner, Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance is currently working on a couple of editorial opportunities with their marketing firm, and they are looking for your input. Please respond to Miranda Odell Polmanteer with any information, and note that it is in reference to the Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance request.

Fall Hunting Season

Deer season opens November 15, 2008 and FLTA is looking for an expert guide who could provide information about land where a visitor can hunt, safety, regulations and any other pertinent information for the season. Additionally, if any lodging facilities offer hunting packages please let us know by October 1, 2008.

GPS Maps

As Global Positioning Systems (GPS) are becoming more and more popular; FLTA is looking to take advantage of the growing trend. GPS devices can download entire trips or help you plan trips to make vacationing easier, so FLTA is looking for anyone who may have created a “Finger Lakes” trip or may know of a trip that may already be available.

Remember, please respond to Miranda Odell Polmanteer with any information. Thank you for your help!

Miranda Odell Polmanteer's Email

BMW Car Rally Here Next Week

Dear Chamber and Community Members,

The Chamber would like to inform all of you that from Tuesday September 23- Sunday, September 28 the village will be expecting around 1,000 individuals to be visiting the area for the BMW Car Club of America’s (BMW CCA) Oktoberfest.

This is a great opportunity for the community businesses to promote themselves. If your business plans on offering any incentives to these guests, or is willing to be open for extended hours, please notify the Chamber.

Thank You!

For more information on the BMW CCA or their Oktoberfest event, visit

www.bmwcca.org

Upcoming Events

EVENTS:

September 17-21, 2008 - Finger Lakes Fiber Tour - (607) 535-9710 - http://fingerlakesfibers.com/

September 18, 2008 - “A Taste of Seneca” Community Harvest Dinner and Auction - 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. - Community Center, Watkins Glen - Cost: $35/person - (607) 535-2050

September 19, 2008 - 8th Annual Donald Brubaker Memorial Golf Tournament (Rain or Shine) - 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Registration - 10:00 a.m. Shotgun Start - Watkins Glen Golf Course - (607) 535 -3003

September 20, 2008 - Cans for Cats Fundraiser - 9:00 a.m.- Noon - Wright’s Beverage, Franklin Street, Watkins Glen - (607) 546-7710 http://www.schuylerhumane.org/index.html

September 23-27, 2008 - BMW CCA Oktoberfest - (800) 878-9292 www.bmwcca.org

OUTDOORS:

September 18, 2008 - Guided Walk Behind the Waterfalls - 11:00 a.m. - Watkins Glen State Park: Meet at the end of the parking lot at the main entrance - (607) 535-4511 - www.nysparks.com

September 19, 2008 - Guided Walk Behind the Waterfalls - 11:00 a.m. - Watkins Glen State Park: Meet at the end of the parking lot at the main entrance - (607) 535-4511 - www.nysparks.com

September 20, 2008 - Guided Walk Behind the Waterfalls - 11:00 a.m. - Watkins Glen State Park: Meet at the end of the parking lot at the main entrance - (607) 535-4511 - www.nysparks.com

September 20, 2008 - Roving Naturalist - 1:00 p.m. -3:00 p.m. - Watkins Glen State Park - (607) 535-4511 - www.nysparks.com

September 20, 2008 - History Walk the Catharine Valley Trail with Historian Gary Emerson - 10:00 a.m. - South Genesee St Trailhead (hike to Cook Street and back with refreshments at the Silver Spoon Café before returning to Genesee St) (607) 535-7105

MUSIC:

September 17, 2008 - Live Entertainment: Richie Stearns - 7:00 p.m. - Red Newt Bistro - (607) 546-4100 - www.rednewt.com

September 20, 3008 - Live Entertainment: The Deceivers - 7:00 – 11:00 p.m. Belhurst Castle - Rte 14, Geneva - (315) 781-0201 - www.belhurst.com

WINE & CULINARY:

September 19, 2008 - Wine Makers Table - 5:00 p.m. - Red Newt Bistro - (607) 546-4100 - www.rednewt.com

Tuesdays at Village Marina Bar & Grill – 2 for 1 drafts, $3.95 wings – 3 p.m. until close – (607) 535 – 7910

Wednesdays at Village Marina Bar & Grill – “Hump Day” 2 for 1 martinis – 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. – (607) 535-7910 Thursdays at Village Marina Bar & Grill – “Dinner for 2”; 12” pizza and a pitcher of beer for $12.99 – 4 p.m. - close – (607) 535-7910

Thursdays at the Red Newt Bistro- Wine lover’s Night - Any bottle of wine is half price with dinner - 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. – (607) 546-4100 –www.rednewt.com

Fridays at the Red Newt Bistro- Bistro-made Pasta Night- Hand made pasta specials in addition to the full menu- 7:00 -9:00 p.m. – (607) 546-4100 – www.rednewt.com

Fridays at Village Marina Bar & Grill – Karaoke- 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. – Starting February 8 – (607) 535 -7910

Sundays at Village Marina Bar & Grill – Nascar Fans; Beer and Food specials with prizes for picking the winning driver – Start of the race - (607) 535-7910

ARTS:

September 18 – 20, 2008 - Carder Steuben Club Annual Symposium - Cost: $235 for non-club Members. Registration required. Contact Scott Hansen at hngseh@aol.com for more information or to register

September 21, 2008 - Families Explore: Egypt - 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. - The Corning Museum of Glass - (607) 974-3306 - www.cmog.org

MISCELLANEOUS:

September 20, 2008 - Corning Community College Cool Kids: “The Raptor Project” - 10:00 a.m. - Main Dining Room; Commons Building, Corning Community College – (607) 962-9507 - www.corning-cc.edu/community/youth

September 22, 2008 - Heating Your Home with Your Own Trees - 5:45 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. - Arnot Forest Lodge - Cost: Pre-registration $12/person; Event day $15/person - (607) 535-7161

September 24, 2008 - CCC Financial "Fare" - 10:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m. - Main Dining Room, Commons Building, Corning Community College - (607) 962-9144

September 24, 2008 - CCC Walter R. Smith Visiting Scholar Series: Dr. William Danko - 8:00 p.m. - Triangle Lounge, Commons Building, Corning Community College - (607) 962-9144

September 25, 2008 - Improving Communication in the Workplace Seminar - 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. - SCOPED Conference Room - Cost: $40/person - (607) 351-8024 - www.chaikaunlimited.com

September 21-27 is National Rehabilitation Awareness Week. Schuyler Hospital wants you to know that, for every $1 spent on rehab care, it is estimated that $11 are saved on long-term disability costs. Make your appointment with the licensed rehabilitation professionals at Schuyler Hospital today.

Sign up for JET’s New Educational Courses (before September 22, 2008) - October 21, 2008 - Dysfunction’s of a Team The Challenge and November 14, 2008 – Emotionally Intelligent Leadership - 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. - JET Inc Office - Elmira Heights - (607) 734-1574 - www.jet-inc.com

Public Service Announcement - September is National Head Lice Prevention Month. Schuyler Hospital wants you to remember to "screen, detect, remove, protect!” Early detection of head lice is the best edge there is to stop communicable diseases in general but also an important opportunity to stem lice outbreaks before they grow into big problems.

Monday Night Knitting is Back - Take 20% off anything you buy while knitting with us on Monday evenings - Finger Lakes Fibers Yarn Store (607) 535-9710 - www.fingerlakesfibers.com

Cheer on your local school athletes:

http://www.watkinsglenschools.com/fallsportsschedule2007.cfm http://www.omschools.org/sportsschedule.cfm