Mountain Home, April 2018

E E R F he wind

as t

The Secret Life of Trout

A Pennsylvania Afishionado Reveals the Secrets of Fly Fishing

Our Annual Fishue!

Hammondsport’s Pelican’s Net Giant Grouper in Yates County Is Fly Fishing in Our DNA?

By Dave Wonderlich

APRIL 20181

Your Regional Airport

delta.com

aa.com

united.com

Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport has competitive pricing, unparalleled convenience, and the most customer friendly staff around. With three airlines servicing daily flights to Detroit, Philadelphia and Newark, you have an opportunity to fly to over 700 one-stop destinations around the world.

We look forward to serving your air travel needs in 2018.

One-stop connections to over 700 global destinations Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport, 1 Culligan Drive Ithaca, NY 14850

Volume 13 Issue 4

The Secret Life of Trout

12

Teach a Man to Fish...

By Peter Ryan

By Dave Wonderlich

...and if you’re lucky, he’s your grandson and he loves it.

A Pennsylvania afishionado reveals the secrets of fly fishing.

17

Mother Earth

By Gayle Morrow Fish like toast, too.

20

6 The Art of Fish

Catching a Great Meal

By Nicole Landers A shared interest turns everyday elements into aquatic masterpieces.

By Evan Stewart Eisenberg

The Pelican’s Net serves the best of surf and turf in Hammondsport.

34

Back of the Mountain

By Bernadette Chiaramonte Nature’s palette.

24 Arc de Triomphe

By Mike Cutillo Leaving the bleachers for a great cause at Watkins Glen International.

Cover by Tucker Worthington, photo

by Bernadette Chiaramonte; top photo courtesy Dave Wonderlich; center, courtesy Alan and Rosemary Bennett; bottom photo courtesy The Arc of Schuyler.

28 3

JUST ONE

LOOK...

TAKE A LOOK AT BROOKSIDE It only takes one look to know we understand the importance in creating a home unique to you.

Since 1979, we continue to meet high-quality standards through superior products, affordable pricing, customized builds and attention to detail. We truly build homes that last.

OUR FREE HOME UPGRADES INCLUDE: • Granite kitchen countertops • Hardwood flooring • Superior Walls® insulated basement walls • NuWool® dense pack insulation

Our reputation is GET IN TOUCH Selinsgrove 570.374.7900 1734 N. Susquehanna Trail

Lycoming Mall 570.546.5707 300 Lycoming Mall Circle

Mansfield 570.662.7900 303 Gateway Drive

BrooksideHomes.com

w w w. m o u n ta i n h o m e m ag . co m Editors & Publishers Teresa Banik Capuzzo Michael Capuzzo Associate Publisher George Bochetto, Esq. Managing Editor Gayle Morrow D i r e c t o r o f O pe r a t i o n s Gwen Button Advertising Director Maia Mahosky S a l e s R ep r e s e n t a t i v e s Robin Ingerick, Linda Roller, Richard Trotta Gallery Manager/ Circulation Director Michael Banik Accounting Amy Packard D e s i g n & P h o t o g r ap h y Tucker Worthington, Cover Design Contributing Writers Maggie Barnes, Mike Cutillo, Evan Eisenberg, Melissa Farenish, Elaine Farkas, Alison Fromme, Carrie Hagen, Don Knaus, Cornelius O’Donnell, Ann Duckett, Roger Kingsley, Nicole Landers, Janet McCue, Brendan O’Meara, Peter Petokas, Linda Roller, Peter Ryan, Micah Sargent, A.J. Sors, Ruth Tonachel, Dave Wonderlich C o n t r i b u t i n g P h o t o g r ap h e r s Mia Lisa Anderson, Bernadette Chiaramonte, Diane Cobourn, Christopher Keays, Jan Keck, Nigel P. Kent, Roger Kingsley, Johnathan Mack, Ken Meyer, Mike O’Brien, Linda Stager, Mary Sweely, Clayton Vargeson, Sue Vogler, Sarah Wagaman, Curt Weinhold D i s t r i b u t i o n T eam Layne Conrad, Grapevine Distribution, Gary Hill, Duane Meixel, Linda Roller T h e B ea g l e Cosmo (1996-2014) • Yogi (2004-2018) ABOUT US: Mountain Home is the award-winning regional magazine of PA and NY with more than 100,000 readers. The magazine has been published monthly, since 2005, by Beagle Media, LLC, 87-1/2 Main Street, Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, 16901, and online at www.mountainhomemag.com. Copyright © 2018 Beagle Media, LLC. All rights reserved. E-mail story ideas to editorial@mountainhomemag.com, or call (570) 724-3838.

TO ADVERTISE: E-mail info@mountainhomemag.com, or call us at (570) 7243838.

AWARDS: Mountain Home has won over 85 international and statewide journalism awards from the International Regional Magazine Association and the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association for excellence in writing, photography, and design.

DISTRIBUTION: Mountain Home is available “Free as the Wind” at hundreds of locations in Tioga, Potter, Bradford, Lycoming, Union, and Clinton counties in PA and Steuben, Chemung, Schuyler, Yates, Seneca, Tioga, and Ontario counties in NY. SUBSCRIPTIONS: For a one-year subscription (12 issues), send $24.95, payable to Beagle Media LLC, 87-1/2 Main Street, Wellsboro, PA 16901 or visit www.mountainhomemag.com.

4

SHOWCASE STORAGE FOR YOUR CAR, TRUCK, BOAT, ETC. DEALERSE WELCOM

Call 570-660-2969 today to speak to Dave Lamphier about this amazing opportunity.

CLOSE TO TOWN WITH COUNTRY FEEL. Nice views

from this custom executive home in Wellsboro boro in the Hickory Heights subdivision. Single story living with additional 2nd floor space containing 2 bedrooms and a 3rd bathroom. Professionally landscaped. Maple flooring and kitchen cabinets. Third bedroom on main level can be used as family room / media room. Full basement. Two washer/dryer hook-ups, One in basement one on first floor.

Many extras. Listing agent is a Licensed Real Estate Agent in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania MLS 129789 .................................. $347,900

570-745-3649

115 Groupe Rd. Jersey Shore, PA 17740

65 Main Street • Wellsboro, PA www.pennoakrealty.com

570-724-8000

Terry Bryant - Broker/Owner • Dave Miller - Realtor • Dave Lamphier - Realtor Cathy Shumway - Realtor • John Johnson - Realtor • Misty Gardner - Realtor

This summer, relax and let the Holland Grill do the work for you!

Great food and no flare-ups.

Now you can pay attention to your guests and not your grill!

The TOHF Mission is to promote alternative and integrative services and products for optimal health.

Fresh Stock Arriving Daily of Shade and BUY TREES Ornamental Trees ONLINE at www.bowerandbranch.com HIC#PA016725

Over 30 Years of Landscaping Excellence!

Bring in this ad for

20% Off

Indoor Merchandise!

Excluding Holland Grills.

Offer ends 4/30/18

w w w. m a r t i n s g a r d e n c e n t e r. c o m

Keynote Address—Lewis Freedman, RD and Priscilla Timberlake, authors of The Great Life Cookbook

CLASSES ALL DAY, HANDS-ON PRACTITIONERS AND A VARIETY OF VENDORS ALL EVENTS NO CHARGE BREAKFAST $5.50 — LUNCH $10.00

St. James Episcopal Church 30 East Wellsboro Street Mansfield, PA 16933

FMI visit st-james-mansfield.diocpa.org or https://www.facebook.com/TheOtherHealthFair or email theotherhealthfair@gmail.com or call 570-662-2003.

5

6

© Linda Stager

The Secret Life of Trout A Pennsylvania Afish ionado Reveals the Secrets of Fly Fishing

I

remember the beginning of a trout season, a while back, that followed an especially long, cold winter. A group of us spent parts of the chilliest days meeting at each other’s homes tying the flies we would need for the coming year and discussing our trout season strategies. Back then, most trout fishing was done from the usual opener some time in April until Labor Day; therefore, a lot of trout angling knowledge centered on that time frame, with the off season almost a void regarding flies and trout habits. Well, since it was so cold, most of the conversation that particular night centered around the idea that nothing was going to happen on the creeks the first week or two of the season, fly-wise, because of the frigid temperatures.

“I’m not going fly fishing,” one of the group announced. “It is too cold for anything to be happening. I may use bait.” It’s not that using bait is a bad thing, or that people who use bait are less capable anglers somehow, but for fly tiers and fly fishermen who spent all winter tying imitations, to abandon their creations because of a cold season opener was considered an admission of doubt regarding the liklihood of success using those creations. Isn’t it amazing what narrow definitions we put on ourselves and the avocations we enjoy? One plus I will give the group was that most admitted they learned to nymph fish using a red worm with a natural drift on smaller creeks. They progressed until they

were using only imitations and a few only wanted to use a certain fly, and let where that particular fly might be determine where they were going to fish.

Since Al Troth and I taught together in the Montgomery School District, we usually found at least a little bit of time during the week to talk fishing. We decided to fish Slate Run the first day together. No up-early for Al to get to our spot for the first cast, however.

“Let’s meet at Slate Run’s Hotel Manor for lunch, then head up Slate,” Al said. He knew what he was doing.

“Sounds great,” I said. “But do you think that is early enough?”

“We’ll take our time,” he continued.

“We don’t want to be on our stretch until the sun climbs over the ridge top and hits the water. Most of the other people will be off the Run by then.”

After burgers and fries, we put our boots on and headed up the streamside trail. We passed many anglers on their way back; it seemed most acted sorry for us because we had gotten such a late start. We didn’t fish until we were well into the woods past the lower stretch that attracts so many fisherpeople. We got to a beautiful gliding pool that the sun illuminated against the stark rock cliff and deep green pines. We stood back and watched as small gray-blue flies began poking through the surface.

“The Paraleptophlebia are just starting,” Al whispered, with a look on his face as if he had just seen his best

friend. “Most people use a Blue Quill to imitate them.” He suggested a size 18 but I have found in the years since then that a sparsely tied size 16 usually works as well and has better hooking quality.

As the trout started to feed on the wing-drying, surface-floating Paraleps, Al smiled and said, “Go ahead, you go first.”

He and I had fished several times that winter on a limestone spring creek so I had a good idea of how he would present the Blue Quill. The water was fairly low and very clear for the first day, so I went with a nine-foot leader tapered to 6X and tied on three extra feet of 7X tippet. Now, I most likely would fish with a 6X tippet and go longer in length, but at the time I didn’t want the trout to be aware of a toothick tippet. The old Fenwick Fiberglass FF79 went back and forth a few times and the fake Paralep coasted to the surface in the quiet air. It glided a few feet in the stronger current, then slowed in the quieter water. The surface parted ever so slightly and a Slate Run brown trout sipped the fly as if it were a spoonfull of hot soup. I raised the Fenwick tip to set the hook and the first trout ran in protest.

This was just the beginning. The trout fed as long as the sun was on the water, and they fed as if it were May, cooperating all afternoon. It was a day of April surface feeding we would not soon forget.

Remember, it had been a long cold winter. We picked a stream that was a tributary and considered colder and farther behind in the development of fly

courtesy Aaron Munzer

By Dave Wonderlich

SeeSee Secret Life on Mooney on page page 88 7

Secret Life continued from page 7

activity. The water that day warmed a little more than three degrees in that stretch but was enough to stimulate the early season Paraleps as well as the metabolism of the trout. This was the beginning of my understanding that the temperature of the water at any given moment is not as important as what it was a few hours before, relative to the present temperature.

I have seen the temperature at sixtyfive degrees drop to fifty-four, which is still a good bug hatching and trout feeding range, and watched the trout stopped feeding because of the shock to their metabolism. At the same time I have experienced day after day of excellent fishing when the morning water temperature was thirty-four and rose to thirty-seven—the trout fed and actively moved to feed even though thirty-seven is never thought to be an active feeding temperature.

Feeding and activity temperature is definitely relative. Gone are the days when we thought that water below the mid-fortys put the trout into a semidormant state. You may have heard that in the cold of early spring you have to put the bait, lure, or imitation in front of the trout’s nose to get it to hit. Not so if the water temperature has risen just a few degrees.

Another concern my fishing friends, and probably most other anglers, had over the years was water level. When you have a late spring with snow still on the ground higher in the mountains, there is a good chance the water may be up. When you couple the remaining snow with frozen ground and April showers, you have the makings for early season high water.

Later, when the trees are starting to leaf out, the roots pull a lot of moisture from the soil and most areas can take a bit more precipitation without making the creeks run bank full. Typically anglers do not want their favorite spot to be “blown-out” by high water since they have waited so long to get back on the stream.

Another spring Al and I again drove to Slate Run to fish Pine Creek.

Pine is fairly big water to begin with early in the season, but when we got there I said, “Now what are we going to do? It’s almost flood water!” I never thought we’d fish.

“We’ll fish,” Al said. “The trout will still be there, in a different position in the stream and we’ll have 8

See Secret Life on page 10

cover story side bar

Courtesy Dave Wonderlich

to be very careful.” He was right. We put our boots on, rigged our rods with nymphs, and stood at the top of the bank with the current rushing and swirling just below. I had my rod ready but just stood there wanting to see what Al was going to do. He had a few split shot between the nymphs, took some line off the reel, cast behind himself once, then moved the rod forward to place the flies not more than six feet off shore and straight up current. He lifted the rod tip, then let the current take the flies, and lifted the tip again. Al was lifting the tip of the rod to hook what could have been a trout since the line had paused and jerked under the surface further. There was debris in the water and the flies and line were being bounced by the branches and everything else floating by. It was amazing to me that he kept going. He lifted the tip again and the rod bowed; the fish dove deep and used the current to put up a great fight, running, twisting, bulldogging the bottom, and shaking its head. Al was patient, carefully netted the big brown, then released the fish to fight again. I stood there a bit dazed and disbelieving. Al caught at least a dozen trout that day without moving more than ten feet up or down stream. He knew the fish would be in the slower edge water, and with all the natural feed presented in the current, the trout would be having a smorgasbord.

I learned so much from this man in my younger years, and most of it was in contrast to conventional fishing wisdom.

If the creek you are going to fish is very high like Pine was that day, don’t even think of wading; the water is extremely dangerous (a flotation device may well be in order—wear it). Al and I wore waders because we had spikes on the bottoms, which was wonderful since the stream bank can be very slippery. I have seen anglers approach Pine at Tomb Flats and slide all the way in from the edge of the bank.

Please be careful. Fish near the water but don’t wade, present your offering a few feet out where the trout will be holding. Watch for a slight pause of the line and there is a good chance it will be a trout. High water is a great time to fish nymphs, red worms, wax worms, larvae, minnows, spinners, and plugs. Use a tight line between yourself and the offering and you will probably

Fishing Facts to Put in Your Creel • Trout are always looking for a meal.

Being aware of their environment, through habit and instinct they know the best places to position themselves to intersect insects, minnows, crayfish, and terrestrials like inchworms, crickets, and grasshoppers. They do this and survive in all water levels and temperatures; it is for the angler to think about water conditions and to have a thoughtful idea of where the trout might be positioned.

Don’t overlook their need for survival.

• For very high to medium water, fish the edges; trout can survive there without expending too much energy and food will drift through their streamside locations.

• As the water level lowers, trout will be looking for places to eat as well as protection from predators. Not far from shore look for a little deeper water that has a more swift flow next to it. Trout love to lie in this water, then dash into the current, grab an insect, and in a flash be back home. Look for creases in the water made by the two differing surface speeds. Fish these areas and you may never go fishless!

• Check the water temperature where you want to fish. If it is on the rise, fish a shallow emerger or dry fly. You may also do well with a grub or worm under a strike indicator; this will allow you to present the bait shallower in the water column where the fish are more aware of the drifting food.

• If you like smaller streams and the water is not low and slow, try a nymph or worm in the current. Follow the insect with the rod tip as it makes its way downstream and it will be much easier to detect a strike and set the hook.

Minnow fishermen and those who use streamers love this type of water earlier

in the season; cast downstream and work the offering as if it is struggling to get out of the current into calmer water.

Hang on to your rod!

• In the lowest water, watch for pockets made by rocks. They provide a break in the current, give protection, and food is filtered around them to the waiting fish.

• If you feel like there is too much water on a big creek to know where to fish, in your mind divide the stream into sections of different types of flow. If you can see surface differences with surface speed creases, you can concentrate on one of these areas as if it is separate from the whole body of water. I do this when bass fishing on the Susquehanna. One width of the river may break down to five or six different-appearing streams; this makes the angling approach purposeful instead of just casting into a huge body of water without a reason for the method.

• If flies are hatching, trout are coming up and feeding off the surface, and you are a spinner fisherperson, try flies with your spinning outfit. If you are using six pound or lighter monofilament, all you have to do is tie a dry fly on the end and put a bobber about five or six feet above. Flies are almost weightless, so the bobber will give the necessary weight to cast the fly. After it lands above the feeding trout, slowly reel the bobber away from the fly so it doesn’t scare the rising fish. When the trout takes the imitation, pick the rod tip up to set the hook. Don’t worry about all the various flies to start, just get a couple Adams. Be careful, you may find you are the one who gets hooked (you can buy some fly outfits that don’t require a mortgage).

Don’t forget to use dry fly floatant—it will definitely help the fly float much longer.

9

Courtesy Dave Wonderlich

Angling author: Dave Wonderlich poses with his catch in Pine Creek.

Secret Life continued from page 9

hook the trout in the mouth. If you are on Special Regulation Water, the mouthhooked fish will be so much easier to safely release. If the hook is deep or near the gills, cut the leader, the water will rust the hook out, and the trout will live.

Later, I realized what I watched Al do that day (just before the year designation changed from the 60s to the 70s) was the basic key to catching trout. What if the water is a little lower? Always think about the trout. The fish are living because instinct has them move out of the current when the energy it takes to stay in the fast water is greater than the nutrition they’ll get from food intake. Trout naturally act with conservation of energy. The colder the water, the easier it is for the fish to recover from expended energy since colder water typically contains more oxygen. So, as the water level decreases, the trout move back away from the bank and take up more normal positions near current lanes which filter the food to them.

I have watched the water levels drop day after day to the point where anglers felt comfortable wading once again. It amazes me to see them move right out into a beautiful channel to cast to the water on the other side. I am sure they were standing right where the trout wanted to hold and watch for insects. One day there was a very good March Brown hatch on a particularly wide pool. The water was

10

colder that day—the near side was in full sun and the other side was in shadow. I’m sure there was little thought of why they were doing it, but three fishermen waded, to near the tops of their waders, to spots a little over half way across Pine. I was there to get some March Brown pictures but couldn’t help watching to see if the trout would rise to their flies in the dark shadow area they were trying to reach.

They fished for maybe fifteen minutes and cast well, but the only trout feeding were the ones behind them in the sunlight—the fish were now rising to March Browns that these guys had just walked through to get to where the grass was greener.

“Try behind yourselves, they are feeding there!” I suggested. One angler turned around a little indignant and told me he didn’t fish for chubs. Oh well, they were beautiful “chubs,” with big dark spots and already had red adipose fins.

The same kind of thing happened at Clark Farm-Utceter Station Access below Black Walnut Bottom Access on Pine. It was early in the season and there were quite a few anglers there. They all headed for the top of the pool where the riffle enters—there is good current against the rock outcroppings on the far bank and there are always fishermen there. Of course, I headed to the left instead of the right and went downstream into the long glassy pool. It is here where the sun warms the water a little more, fly activity picks

up, and the trout cruise the surface looking for emerging insects. You spot insects hatching, watch the line of a trout moving as it feeds, cast six or eight feet ahead, and more times than not the trout will find your fly. It is a lot of fun, it is quiet, and no one else is down there with you. When I’ve gone back to the car I’ve heard, “There’s that guy that was catching all those chubs down at the bottom of the pool.” If you hear that, just smile and let them believe it; it will keep your spot to yourself, and those huge chub-brownies down there, cruising for a meal, will be your secret.

There are endless variations to what trout will be doing on any given day. With some consideration of water condition, anglers can have a very good idea of where the trout will be and how best to present the offering. No one is ever sure what will work, but a well thought-out approach will certainly increase chances for a hookup. If all else fails, turn left instead of right, let the rest of the anglers have the “good” water, and remember: don’t tell anyone when you discover your own secret angling El Dorado!

Former high school English teacher Dave Wonderlich is an originator and a former editor of Shooting Sportsman magazine and Game Country Magazine. He is a fulltime writer.

r e v e F g n i r p S

at Larry’s

2018 Raptor® 90

Sport Center, Inc. ...it’s time to get out and play!

47th Annual SPRING OPEN HOUSE

2018 Raptor® 700R

Saturday, April 14th • 9am to 5pm

FREE FOOD

DEMO RIDES

DOOR PRIZES

We’re Wheelin’ and Dealin’ on Nearly 500 In-Stock Vehicles!

Raptor 90 is recommended for use only by riders 12 years and older and always with adult supervision. All other ATV models are recommended for use only by riders 16 years and older. Raptor 700R is recommended for experienced riders only. Yamaha recommends that all ATV riders take an approved training course. For safety and training information, see your dealer or call the ATV Safety Institute at 1-800887-2887. ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Always avoid paved surfaces. Never ride on public roads. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Never carry passengers.

Never engage in stunt riding. Riding and alcohol/ drugs don’t mix. Avoid excessive speed. And be particularly careful on difficult terrain. Specifications subject to change without notice. Professional rider depicted on closed courses. Shown with optional accessories. ©2016 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved.

SPRING TRAINING is FAMILY FUN time!

One year limited factory warranty + Four years Yamaha Extended Service = Five years coverage: Certain exclusions apply, see terms of each for details.

Professional riders depicted on closed courses. Dress properly for your ride with a helmet, eye protection, long sleeves, long pants, gloves and boots. Yamaha and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation encourage you to ride safely and respect the environment. For further information regarding the MSF course, please call 1-800-446-9227. Do not drink and ride. It is illegal and dangerous. Some models shown with optional accessories. ©2017 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. • YamahaMotorsports.com

Professional rider depicted on closed course. Dress properly for your ride with a helmet, eye protection, riding jacket or long-sleeve shirt, long pants, gloves and boots. Do not drink and ride. It is illegal and dangerous. Yamaha and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation encourage you to ride safely and respect the environment. For further information regarding the MSF course, please call 1-800-446-9227. ©2017 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved.

• YamahaMotorsports.com

M E O C L W E S A G VE YS DA

SATURDAY MAY 5TH 9AM-5PM

SEE SOME NEW STARS IN VEGAS this year...the All new YAMAHA Star Venture & Star Eluder...HERE NOW!

OPEN HOUSE

FREE LUNCH

DEMO FREE LIVE SHOWS RIDES at Noon & 1:30pm

Spin the Wheel and

HIT IT BIG

on Clothing & Accessory Purchases!

Larry’s Sport Center, Inc. 1913 US RTE. 6, GALETON, PA (814) 435-6548 Hours: M, T, Th, F 9am-7pm; Sat. 9am-5pm; Closed Sun. & Wed.

“The Fun Dealership...Serving the Area Since 1971”

w w w. l a r r y s s p o r t c e n t e r. c o m 11

Courtesy Peter Ryan

Baiting buddies: Author Peter Ryan (right) shows off a catch with grandson Mitchell during one of their many fishing expeditions.

Teach a Man to Fish...

...And if You’re Lucky, He’s Your Grandson and He Loves It

By Dr. Peter Ryan

E

arly in his life, my daughter Erin’s middle son, Mitchell, showed interest in fishing. He always wanted to see pictures and discuss the exotic places I had been and hear about fish I had caught.

He also told me of going fishing on Lake Wisconsin with a neighbor, and about the fun he had catching sunnies and bass off a dock with his cousins at their cottage. In 2008, Erin and her three boys moved from Wisconsin to Danville, Pennsylvania, giving Mitch and me more opportunities to fish together. He was only six, but Mitch was intrigued with fly fishing and I worked with him the next few years on fly selection, casting, wading, and fishing etiquette.

As he grew, Mitch’s skill increased but he also became involved in youth sports, resulting in his unavailability to fish with his grandfather. By May of 2015, I wanted to discern if Mitch had indeed received my DNA for the passion of fly fishing.

I got permission from his mom, school,

and lacrosse coach for Mitch to leave after school on a Thursday and fish with me the next three days.

We arrived at the Hotel Manor that afternoon, got on our gear, and headed downstream below Slate Run. Big Pine was in great shape…good flow, green but not too clear, with caddis flies hatching up and down the stream and trout rising everywhere. It was a fly fisher’s dream! We observed two anglers leaving below the bridge and hurried to take their vacated spot. Mitch looked at me and inquired, “Pop, you have your favorite Orvis Far & Fine rod. What rod will I use?” I handed him my rod and explained that I was not fishing, only guiding, and asked what fly he would put on. “Tan elk-hair caddis, size forteen, right?”

“Exactly,” I responded, and queried Mitch as to where he intended to make his initial cast. Mitch pointed to a spot sixty feet upstream where we had seen a large trout

rise periodically. I asked him how many fish are rising between us and that fish.

“Five or six,” Mitch replied.

“Right,” I responded, “and what will those fish do when your fly line lands across the area in which they are feeding?”

“Probably spook and quit rising?” my grandson guessed.

“Yeah, so let’s start on the trout rising closest to us and work upstream.”

Mitch made a nice cast to a trout steadily rising about two rod lengths above us. Just as the fly entered the feeding zone, the current grabbed the fly line and dragged the fly away from the fish. “Upstream mend,” I instructed him. He nodded OK, made another cast, performed the upstream mend, and the caddis fly imitation drifted naturally down toward the still-rising trout.

Just as the fish tipped up to take the fly, Mitch ripped the rod up and back, instantly moving the fly away from the trout and into a tree behind him. Frustrated, Mitch See DNA on page 15

12

welcome to

WELLSBORO Manicure Spa Pedicure Waxing

73 Main Street • Wellsboro, PA 16901

570-948-9299

Hours: Mon-Sat. 9:30am-7:30pm; Sun. 10am-6pm

April showers bring May flowers, protect your electronics.

Hamilton-Gibson Productions

Tioga Office Products We have plug & play external 96 East Avenue • Wellsboro, PA

570-724-4060 top1@ptd.net

Blithe Spirit

hard drives for backup of data and surge protectors.

Printer Cartridges • Laser Machine Sales • Decorative Paper Fax/Scanning Service • Copying & Printing Services • Office Paper

Vintage comedy by witty Noel Coward that has been delighting audiences since first produced in 1941. sponsored by

Wellsboro Electric Co. and Citizens & Northern Bank April 13, 14, 15, 20, 21 Warehouse Theatre, Wellsboro, PA Warehouse Theatre

 hamiltongibson.org (570) 724-2079 Reserve online or by phone 13

AVIATION MUSEUM

Olde Barn Centre ~ ANTIQUES ‘N SUCH ~

CLOSED January & February

One Piper Way Lock Haven, PA 17745

(570) 748-8283

Fax: (570) 893-8357 • E-mail: pipermuseum@comcast.net

WWW.PIPERMUSEUM.COM Present this ad and receive % Your Gift Shop Purchase!

“Furniture and Accessories of all periods” “A beautiful blend of past and present” U.S. Route 220 N, 1/2 Mi. East of Pennsdale OPEN THURSDAY—SUNDAY: 10-5

570-546-7493 -- www.oldebarncentre.com

14

10 OFF

Enjoy a meal overlooking the Susquehanna River.

Henry’s is not just a restaurant,

IT’S A TRADITION!

(570) 326-1607

5693 N. Route 220 Hwy., Linden, PA 17744

welcome to

WILLIAMSPORT

DNA continued from page 12

retrieved his fly and I chuckled. “Mitchell, remember me saying, ‘We learn from our mistakes’? You just learned if you strike with that much force, your fly gets ripped out of the fish’s window and into a tree. That’s known as negative reinforcement.”

“Funny,” he replied with a smirk I recognized as the same one that was on my face at age thirteen. As Mitch moves into position to cast, I continued to offer instruction.

“Now remember, when the fish rises to take the fly, raise the rod gently with your right hand and strip-strike the line with your left.” He made the cast, turned to me and said, “Upstream mend” with that same silly smirk, just as the fly drifted perfectly and was inhaled by a fourteen-inch feisty brown trout. The battle was on and Mitch expertly played the fish into the eddy behind him, followed by a gentle release after showing me how beautiful it was.

I stepped back and upstream from Mitch and sat on a big rock and just watched. He hooked and landed four more trout without even looking my way…poetry in motion! He was now totally in rhythm with the rod, line, stream, fish—and it was beautiful to watch. It was rhythm, spirit, body, and mind working effortlessly together and in unison. It is a feeling I cannot explain. When it comes to fishing, it’s either in your DNA or it’s not. Mitch caught and released five more browns and a rainbow and continued to be in rhythm, and I continued to just watch. After releasing the rainbow, Mitch looked over to me and asked, “What do you think, Pop?” I told him he was definitely “in the zone,” doing everything right, and to please bring me his phone so I could take a few pictures before it’s too dark. I again moved back, upstream and out of his way. He was back in rhythm—casting with a stroke and a concentration enhanced by his athleticism. The tan elk-hair caddis was still landing upright in the strike zones and several more brown trout succumb to the temptation. I took pictures until it was so dark we couldn’t see, and then it was time to leave.

In silence, we scrambled back to the car, removed our gear, and walked into the Hotel Manor. As we awaited our pizza and drinks, Mitch looked at me seriously. “Something happened to me out there tonight,” he said. “I can’t explain it. Everything seemed so easy, so natural. I could cast without thinking and the fly would land precisely where I wanted it to without really knowing how I did it. Does that ever happen to you?”

“Yes,” I explained, “but not all the time. It is called being in rhythm. It is as if your spirit, body, and mind are so in tune that everything is effortless, which is why it is difficult to explain to someone who has never experienced that feeling.”

As the waitress delivered our dinner, Mitch looked straight into my eyes.

“Pop, this was the best day ever!”

“You mean the best fly fishing day ever.”

“No Pop, the best day ever. Thank you.”

How fortunate and truly blessed I am to have had a son, and now a grandson, both possessing my DNA for fly fishing passion.

For his sixteenth birthday present, Mitch and I are headed this summer for a two-week fly fishing trip to Montana. I can’t wait!

ROAN Inc.

AU-003943-L AY-000087-L

THE ORIGINAL ROAN AUCTIONEERS

REAL ESTATE & CONTENTS AUCTIONEERS OF COGAN STATION, PA

®

CELEBRATING 70+ YEARS IN BUSINESS - SPECIALIZING IN REAL ESTATE: LAND & FARMS, ESTATES, BUSINESS LIQUIDATIONS, SPECIALTY COLLECTIONS & GENERAL CONSIGNMENTS

UPCOMING IN APRIL & MAY 2018

CONTINUING OUR BI-WEEKLY THURS. AUCTIONS - 4/12 & 4/26* REAL ESTATE & CONTENTS @ 8495 RT. 54, WATSONTOWN, PA / 30 ACRE FARM / CONTENTS OF TRACTORS/MACHINERY/ TOOLS/HOUSEHOLD - MAY 4TH & 5TH* * ANNUAL PRE-MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND AUCTION @ OUR GALLERY - MAY 25TH & 26TH*

*

*

3530 Lycoming Creek Road * Cogan Station, PA 17728 (800) 955-ROAN * (570) 494-0170 * www.roaninc.com

Dr. Pete Ryan is a retired Coudersport dentist, worldwide fly fisherman, founder and president of the God’s Country Chapter of Trout Unlimited, and member of the Alfred University Sports Hall of Fame.

15

welcome to

WILLIAMSPORT

Catherine Burns cebrunsins@verizon.net

insurance services

rhondajw82@yahoo.com

A FULL SERVICE AGENCY

Medicare Supplemental Plans Life Insurance Home Health Care Dental Insurance Pre-paid Funerals 401k Rollovers Home & Auto Insurance

Medicare Advantage Plans Annuities Long Term Care Insurance Group Health Insurance

1108 West Southern Avenue South Williamsport, PA 17702 Phone: 570-327-1598 Fax: 570-327-1599 mjrakestraw@gmail.com

Call us for all of your insurance needs!

DRESSES for any SPECIAL OCCASION In-stock sizes 4–24

Colony Classics

1605 E. Third Street • Williamsport (570) 327-1989

16

justinrjohnson237@gmail.com

Courtesy Steve Belcher

Mother Earth

Catching memories: (l to r) Fred Lantz, Craig Vance, Steve Belcher, Dan Shipe,and Tom Hoover

Fish Like Toast, Too

By Gayle Morrow

I

f you know Dan Shipe, you know that he loves to fish. From native brook trout to cutthroat to steelhead to drum—if it has scales and fins and lives in the water, he’s interested in convincing it to attach itself to the end of his line. It takes a lot this time of year to get him off the water.

But music is another passion, one he has shared for many years with a variety of friends in a variety of bands. One of the most popular, at least in these parts, was Burnt Toast. An upbeat, bluegrassy band, Burnt Toast formed in the mid-1990s and played to enthusiastic crowds at numerous local festivals and venues.

Members, some of whom had played together in North Fork Alliance, another regionally popular band, included Dan (vocals, guitar), Craig “Laz” Vance (guitar), Fred Lantz (mandolin, banjo, really “anything with strings,” Dan says), Tom Hoover (guitar, mandolin, vocals), and Steve Belcher (bass). The group enjoyed several years of making music together, both with the original lineup and with the other musicians who occasionally sat in; by about 2000, though, the members of Burnt Toast had all moved on to other bands.

“We’ve all established our names in the music business individually,” says Steve.

In March of 2017, Tom Hoover died. Both Dan and Steve, the band’s only local residents, were out of town at the time; the other Burnt Toast members were not living in the area, either, so

there was not an opportunity for any sort of band-based memorial.

“Fred (Lantz, who lives in Vermont) and I talk a lot,” Steve says, and the subject of a Burnt Toast reunion had come up. “We always had a blast every time we got together…so we thought this would be a nice chance to say goodbye to Tom.” Enter the Deane Center for the Performing Arts as the venue for the April 20 show, commitments from the remaining original Burnt Toast members to play, and positive responses from invitations to two other musicians—Jeff Wisor (fiddle) and Chad Darou (dobro).

“It is a nice opportunity to play for the hometown crowd,” Steve continues. “We haven’t played together in a long time, but I think it’s like riding a bike. This is gonna be a lot of fun. It’s a big deal for us to play for our hometown folks.”

“All the musicians in Burnt Toast were a big inspiration to me musically,” says Dan. “It’s exciting to have four out of five of the original members together. They are amazing musicians.”

Tickets are twenty dollars and you can call the Deane Center at (570) 724-6220 to reserve seating. The show starts at 7:30, and guests are welcome to bring adult beverages and snacks. Burnt Toast will play the following evening, April 21, at the Bullfrog Brewery in Williamsport.

Fish all day, sing all night!

17

SUE VOGLER

BERNADETTE CHIARAMONTE

LINDA STAGER

LINDA STAGER

MARY SWEELY

SARAH WAGAMAN

NIGEL P. KENT

BERNADETTE CHIARAMONTE

LINDA STAGER 18

BERNADETTE CHIARAMONTE

LINDA STAGER

NIGEL P. KENT

SARAH WAGAMAN

“April, come she will…”

S

imon and Garfunkel knew about April, how it is the beginning of a monthslong love affair with warmth, water, and growing things. In April the birds are back and nesting, trout are rising to an assortment of hatches, a bear cub might peak out from the newly-leafed underbrush, the chorus of peepers again brings music to the evenings. “When streams are ripe and swelled with rain…” we, too, feel the richness of life stirring all around.

BERNADETTE CHIARAMONTE

MARY SWEELY

19

Catching a Great Meal

The Pelican’s Net Serves The Best of Surf and Turf in Hammondsport

By Evan Stewart Eisenberg

“H

ark now hear the sailors cry, smell the sea, and feel the sky…”

Van Morrison’s evocative sea-song lyrics floated on the breeze as we pulled open the main hatch at Pelican’s Net restaurant, located on the main highway, State Route 54, which connects the outside world to this very charming lakeside town of Hammondsport, New York.

Pelican’s Net Coastal Grille & Draught House is a classic roadside landing, luring in the hungry dinner guest with a welcoming aged and weathered exterior, classic dockstyle posts, and thick hemp rope draped about, giving the look of a lagoon-style seafood shack. Don’t let the rustic décor fool you…the cuisine offered inside has made the stuff of recent local legends.

Twin brothers, Mark and Mike Waldrop, opened Pelican’s Net a few

20

years ago with an earnest desire to serve the absolute freshest, highest-quality seafood and premium meats available.

They are meticulous about their sources and sourcing, gathering the best ingredients with gusto and passion while maintaining a light, fun attitude, serving their loyal (new and returning) customers with a warm handshake, a smile, and expertly prepared cuisine.

“We take our fish mongers and meat purveyors very seriously, striving for top tier products from around the country,” Mark says.

Their education in the restaurant business includes a long stint learning the ropes in The Branding Iron, their mother’s (Judy Pear) well-known Keuka Lake establishment. There, as teens, they learned how to bus tables, prep, and manage the front and back of the house. They studied

the ins and outs of marketing, and learned customer service, all of which they apply today in a professional, yet very warm, manner.

The Twins, as they’re known around Hammondsport, finally ended up opening their own place in the late summer of 2011. Since then the two high-spirited brothers have been a team, feeding hungry land lubbers and captains’ crews, steering Pelican’s Net together through rough waters and challenging winds of change, all the while creating a place to share their passion for great American cuisine.

Naysayers said running and sustaining a successful seafood and steak house in the middle of upstate New York, with its harsh winters and fickle tourism seasons, couldn’t be done. But the two forged on with their passion and dream and now have a very See Pelican on page 23

Truck Cap and Tonneasu Covers

SALES • PARTS • SERVICE

9179 MAYNARD ROAD • LINDLEY, NY Exit 6 off Rt. 15, Lindley, NY • 607-523-7396

Hours: Mon-Wed.,Fri. 8-5; Thurs. 8-7; Sat 8-Noon; Closed Sunday

w w w . s tat e l i n e c a m p i n g c e n t e r . c o m

Welcome to Corning’s Corning’s Gaffer GafferDistrict District Welcome to We to to Wecarry carryan anarray arrayofofproducts products complement compliment your yourhair haircare careand and beauty beautyneeds. needs.

2018 CAMPGROUND ACTIVITIES

Friday Evenings: Candy Bar Bingo, Movie & Popcorn Night Saturday Mornings: Arts & Crafts, 11:00 p.m. in the pavilion ($ cost) Weekends: Wagone Rides, Card Games, and Horseshoe Tournaments (depending on participation) May 13th— MOTHER’S DAY PANCAKE BREAKFAST: Pancakes, sausage, coffee and juice. Moms eat free!

Adults $5, kids $2. 9:30 AM in the pavilion.

May 25th- to 28th—MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND – POOL OPENS: Ice Cream Social, Camp Bell BINGO, Horseshoes, Euchre and a Dance with DJ Biggie Entertainment!

June 2nd & 3rd—STONE SOUP, 1 BETTER BAND & HORSESHOE TOURNAMENT: Join the group by helping prepare Stone Soup, join the benefit Horseshoe Tournament, and enjoy the band “1 BETTER” from 7-11 pm.

607.936.8541

July 28th—MICRO BREWERY TASTING & OLDIES NIGHT: Saturday: 4-6 PM Local Micro-Brewery tasting to raise money for our charity, Camp Good Days.

Followed by Oldies Night Luau Party with DJ Biggie.

Aug 4th—NASCAR WEEKEND PEDDLE CART RACES: 2nd annual peddle cart races. Heats by age group.

Prizes awarded. Karaoke Night with DJ Biggie.

August 11th—LOCAL WINERY TASTING: Saturday: Join us for a Wine Tasting ($5) 4-6 PM. Donations go to Camp Good Days & Special Times

June17th— FATHER’S DAY PANCAKE BREAKFAST; Pancakes, sausage, coffee and juice. Dads eat free!

Adults $5, kids $2. 9:30 AM in the pavilion.

August 17th & 18th—CHRISTMAS IN AUGUST: Saturday: Noon, lunch and photo with Santa ($3.00).

Wagon ride to the ice cream shop with Santa, later a wine & cheese party with Santa (7-11 PM) and dance with DJ Biggie Entertainment!

June 23rd—POT LUCK DINNER & TRIVIA NIGHT: 6pm. Watch our Square Dance Club dance all weekend.

August 25th—“BOOTS ON” BAND from 7-11 PM: Local Country band. Cover charge for the band - $5.00 per person for non-campers, kids under 8 free.

June 29th to July 1—KICK-OFF TO SUMMER & SAM PALLET BAND (7-11 PM): Slip N Slide during the date, Wine Tasting ($5) from 4-6 PM (all for charity) and Dance with DJ Biggie on Sunday.

Aug 31st-Sep 2nd—LABOR DAY WEEKEND CELEBRATION: Saturday: Ice Cream Social, Camp Bell BINGO, Horseshoes, Euchre and SUNDAY Dance with DJ Biggie Entertainment!

July 6th to July 8th—4th of JULY CELEBRATION: Saturday: Ice Cream Social followed by Camp Bell BINGO, and Horseshoe Tournament. Sunday: Dance with DJ Biggie!

Sept. 16th—HORSESHOE TOURNAMENT: 10 AM to find out who is the “Best” and who gets the “Horse’s Ass” trophy. Food and non-alcoholic beverages. Donations benefit “Camp Good Days”.

July 14th—DEATH BY CHOCOLATE & TRIVIA NIGHT: 7PM for a pot luck of CHOCOLATE. Share your favorite and follow it up with some Trivia!

October 5th to 7th—HALLOWEEN WEEKEND: Prize for the Most Unique RV decorations! Saturday: 11 PM, in the pavilion, free Halloween Activity; 2 PM: Trick or Treat Kid’s Parade and Costume Contest.

Wagon ride at dark. Sunday, 7-9 PM Join us for a good old fashion Barn Dance. Watch our Square Dance Club dance all weekend.

July 20th to July 22nd—3rd Annual SAW MILL FESTIVAL & CROSSROADS BAND: Lots of activities and trophies for winners from different age group and activities.

24 W. Market St., Corning, NY 14830

APRIL 14, 2018

5th Annual Charity Race for The Arc of Schuyler

3.4 Mile Timed Run/Walk or 1 Mile Pit Road Walk

Call 607-527-3001 or visit campbellcampground.com for full event listings and more information

BRING IN THIS AD FO R

10% OFF

Not to be combined with other offers.

CAMPBELLCAMPGROUND.COM | 607-527-3301

7:00 AM Check-In ▪ 8:00 AM Start

$30 Adults ▪ $15 Kids REGISTER ONLINE www.arcgrandprixrun.org

Register online by April 12 or on race day!

AFTER PARTY at Grist Iron Brewing Co. Join us for music, raffles, food, and brews!

21

welcome to

CORNING’S GAFFER

DISTRICT

24 27 2018 Pip’s Boutique

Spring Has Sprung!

NINTH ANNUAL

Bring in this Ad and Receive $10 OFF Your Whole Purchase!

Mon-Wed: 10am-6pm Thurs-Fri: 10am-7pm Sat: 10am-6pm Sun: 11am-4pm

GlassFest is four days of glassmaking demonstrations, music, entertainment, art vendors, food and more!

22

89 E. Market Street Corning, NY 14830 (607) 962-6301 pipsboutique.com

SHOP LOCAL...

IT MAKES A DIFFERENCE!

Become a Pip’s Fan on

Pelican continued from page 20

loyal following, anchored, so to speak, in a fabulous location.

Moor yourself at Pelican’s Net intimate bar for a very well-rounded selection of local, regional, and national brews, or explore the wide range of wine offerings from the Finger Lakes region. The twins also offer hand-crafted cocktails derived from age-old mixologists’ recipes, and spontaneous creations using locally sourced products and unique combinations.

The specter of seasonal highs and lows could give even the most jaded pirate the shivers, but the twins handle that aspect of their business masterfully. People often travel great distances to partake of the intimate and caring atmosphere Mark and Mike create for their patrons. It’s home away from home for many people who are seeking a high-quality meal, no matter how far the drive.

Mark and Mike work as a team, managing the kitchen, creating mixology, handling seating, the restaurant floor, and the customers’ needs. Their focused, hands-on technique is obvious from the second you cross the threshold, from the

fun, sea-shack décor, to the savory scents wafting from the kitchen. They do their best to spend time with each customer, chatting in between trips to the bar and kitchen.

The siren song of any quality seafood/ steak restaurant is product freshness. Mark and Mike have their raw cargo regularly shipped from high-end purveyors at mid-west beef markets and from the seafood markets on the East, West, and Gulf coasts. The twins’ skill is reflected in the well-rounded, rotating menu which features classic seafood dishes, and seasonal offerings of Chilean sea bass, tuna, salmon, and mahi-mahi. Pelican’s Net also offers premium New York strip steak, prime rib, BBQ ribs, pot roast poutine, and their own gourmet burgers, created from a specific mix of ground beef that has a delicate fat to lean ratio.

Their creamy, homemade lobster bisque, French onion soup, and New England clam chowder are prepared using quality ingredients, showcasing the best of what these hearty soups have to offer.

Lighter fare includes a fish sandwich, grilled chicken sandwich (with fries, slaw, or salt potatoes), gourmet po’ boys stacked

high, crabcakes, and classic dinner salads with field greens. The famous homemade corn bread complements many of the main dishes; sides of fresh corn, green vegetables, or buttery salt potatoes are perfectly consistent with what one would expect from a traditional ocean-side seafood shack.

Take note: the luscious cheese cake with fresh fruit compote and other fun desserts may be required to finish off this dining experience.

Pelican’s Net features intimate live entertainment on weekends, showcasing local acts and DJs, often with a theme attached, like “Frank Sinatra Night” or “Saint Pat’s Party.”

Pelican’s Net is easy to find, with plenty of parking on both sides of the building at 8465 State Route 54. Seasonal hours do apply. Reservations are recommended. Call Mark or Mike at (607) 569-3536.

Evan Stewart Eisenberg, musician, foodie, newbie real estate agent, lives in Odessa, New York, and tends to drink a lot of coffee during writing sessions.

4x4 TRUCK CENTRAL

600

NEW TRUCKS

IN STOCK!

w w w. s i m m o n s - r o c k w e l l . c o m 23

Courtesy Alan and Rosemary Bennett Just one of the group: Alan and Rosemary Bennett pose with one of their clay creations; a grouper replication.

The Art of Fish

Shared Interests Turn Everyday Elements Into Aquatic Masterpieces

By Nicole Landers

I

t’s early, early spring and the Finger Lakes are blanketed in snow that resembles dollops of marshmallow fluff draped on tree limbs. Peering through the windshield, I barely make out the name on the street sign, half plastered with thick snow, directing me up and up to Alan and Rosemary Bennett’s home and studio. It’s a wonder this creative duo lives at such a high altitude, while venturing down below the water’s surface to gain their artistic inspiration. Alan and Rosemary both work in clay, recreating creatures and themes of an aquatic nature. Alan’s realistic threedimensional fish gaze with glassy eyes from their wall perches, as if staring at me from the other side of a scuba mask. Rosemary’s pieces take the more practical forms of vases and teapots with beautifully sculpted scenes of ocean-inspired themes. Sometimes, however, he throws the pots and carves on

24

them. They both often mix glazes and work together on the glazing and firing—truly a joint effort on every piece.

Visitors to the property are greeted by the site of a rustic barn with schools of fish out of water, hanging on the boards, the one in the center labeled “Bennett Clay Fish.” I must be at the right place! Inside and out, fish are clinging to the walls of the buildings.

Later I learn that giant sea turtles and other aquatic creatures occupy most horizontal surfaces, now hidden under the snow.

Rosemary, who was trained in art therapy and works at The Arc of Steuben, is welcoming from the start, clearing a comfortable meeting area at her kitchen table amidst more wonderful creatures above our heads and surrounding us in the cozy room. Alan, who has been teaching ceramics part-time at Mansfield University for the past four years, enters a few minutes

later, taking a break from the fish he told me he’d be working on all day. The couple is preparing a large commission—a shoal of menhadens being chased by tuna that will appear to move through a wall. It will be a sight to see!

Alan has been enamored with fish for as long as he can remember; Rosemary has fond memories of fishing with her “fish crazy” family on summer vacations to Maine. The two met at art school at Ohio State University, where their shared interest in sculpting and all things fish was the start of something special. Alan recalls admiring Rosemary’s drawings of an octopus.

“We have a similar way of drawing, although Rosemary’s [drawings] tend to be more detailed,” he says.

“In grad school, Alan made pots with beautiful fish sculptures on them, then [over See Art on page 26

k Ä

À Ì Î ÄÌÏA

k

:

Ä A Y åÌ$Y

Î Ì

FULKERSONWINERY.COM

Also available in local stores.

Now shipping to PA.

Lakewoodvineyards.com 4024 State Route 14 Watkins Glen, NY 14891 877-535-9252

Pastries in the French tradition.

Intimate gatherings in 7am-2pm Mon-Fri any style.

8am-2pm Sat

COFFEE • ESPRESSO DRINKS ELEGANT SPECIAL EVENTS ROOM • BUSES WELCOME!

401 West Main St., Montour Falls, NY • (607) 210-4457

AWARD-WINNING WINES • SPECTACULAR VIEWS Come for the wine. Stay for the view.

Hours: Open 7 days. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

5081 State Route 414 — Hector, NY 14841

800.4NY.WINE • CLRWINE.COM

25

“Down right masterful instrumentalists”

Art continued from page 24

time] his fish jumped off the pots,”says Rosemary, referring to the three-dimensional form his art takes today. Often the couple will be working on the same piece, doing different parts. Alan chimes in, “We share back and forth. It’s like having extra hands from the same body. It’s wonderful!”

The two started snorkeling in the 1980s, happy spending time with their muses—the fishes. “We do most of our snorkeling in Keuka Lake,” Rosemary says. Alan describes the experience of swimming close to pike, bluegill, catfish, bass, rock bass, and giant carp as “magical.” He has gone so far as to pack oil pastels and a canvas down below the water to paint plein mer. But the real magic happens back up on dry ground.

Early in their careers they spent time in Mexico, where Alan worked as a consultant designer for El Palomar, a ceramics business first opened by Americans in the 1960s. There he designed and painted lead-free stoneware for export, mainly to Japan and Germany. They both recall the experience with great fondness— “there’s nothing like the light [in that part of Mexico],” Rosemary reminisces. Alan agrees, and describes having difficulty designing for the New England market, as his eyes had already “become accustomed to the color.”

When they arrived back in the states, Rosemary remembers, “we were making pots with bright colors and intricate designs, but nobody wanted them. Then Alan went to a show in Connecticut and put up a sculpture of a fish on a snow fence and people were fighting over it.”

••• The studio, which was bathed in the low afternoon sun, seemed to have the perfect conditions for detailed applications.

“We live in our studio,” Rosemary laughs, immediately going to work. She picks up a large trigger fish that had been bisquefired, making the piece rigid enough to hold and glaze. She had carefully laid out the intricate pattern of colors, taking cues from a reference picture. Alan mixed a glaze of light blue that, after firing, will become a vibrant blue; thanks to the chemical processes that occur under high heat.

Alan has been perfecting his glazes for decades. He and Marissa Scott, a colleague from the English Department at Mansfield University, are working on a book that will allow other artists to replicate his methods. “Alan is very interested in special effects glazes,” Rosemary explains.

One example, crystal glazing, uses a mixture of metals passed through a fine screen and applied with bran flakes. Alan jokes that he “got the idea at breakfast one morning.” The results are an other-worldly, three-dimensional appearance. Colors are also a career-long challenge to Alan. He explains that “getting the purples to work on a piece along with other colors is difficult in high fire temperature ceramics.” He’s excited to publish the book, summarizing forty years of research into a reference guide, written in everyday English, for ceramic artists.

Raku glazing is probably the most exciting process the couple uses. Pieces are fired in a special kiln designed to reach a temperature of 1,870 degrees Fahrenheit. The piece is then “fished” out and smothered in sawdust. The clay undergoes thermal shock, creating tiny cracks in the iridescent glaze. In the end, the surface looks remarkably like scales. The piece is then dipped in water to halt the cracking process.

See Art on page 30

26

• Open 7 days a week •

Delicious comfort fooD • Daily specials cozy fireplaces • Beautiful Decor outDoor Dining • Dog Dining area

QQ

Sunday Brunch Buffet

Chinese, Japanese & American Restaurant

11 am — 2 pm

#1 Restaurant in Mansfield PA —Trip Advisor

SERVING ANY SIZE PARTY WITH 150-SEAT CAPACITY

Hours: Sun-Thurs 11am-9:30pm; Fri-Sat 11am-10pm

570-513-0888/0889

Just Off Rt. 6 & 1-99/Rt.15 • Across from the Quality Inn 200 Gateway Drive, Mansfield, PA • 570-662-3222 www.lambscreek.com

181 N. Main St., Mansfield, PA 16933 (next to Pizza Hut)

www.qqbuffet.com

Since 2008, Nelle and her staff have welcomed guests to Lambs Creek Food & Spirits. And, as owner of the famous Wellsboro Diner, she has enjoyed serving delicious comfort food for over 20 years!

The Famous

Wellsboro Diner esT. 1939

Draper’s Super Bee Apiaries, Inc. Honey...How sweet it is!

We produce and sell high quality, natural honey products and much more.

We’ll Ship Your Christmas Gifts For You!

Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Saturday 8am-1pm

www.draperbee.com

32 Avonlea Lane Millerton, PA 16936 800-233-4273 or 570-537-2381

One of “The 10 Best Classic Diners in America” — Huffington Post

Stacked Hot Roast Beef Sandwiches Fresh-Baked Mile-High Pies Our Own Cookies & Cakes 570-724-3992 Open 6:00 a.m.

Monday-Saturday 7:00 a.m. Sunday

Check Out Our Gift Store!

• Open 7 days a week • 27

Courtesy The Arc of Schuyler Dashing tutus: Sisters, and regular attendees of the race, Brande Flaitz (left) and Aimee Parry don their unusual race wear.

Arc de Triomphe

Leaving the Bleachers for a Great Cause at Watkins Glen International

By Mike Cutillo

W

atkins Glen International is known as the Mecca of North American road racing. In six-plus decades, it has hosted everything from Formula One to IndyCar to the wildly popular NASCAR Winston Cup series races. Champions at The Glen have included some of the biggest names in racing— Jeff Gordon, Rusty Wallace, Kyle Petty, Bobby Unser, Emerson Fittipaldi, and Jackie Stewart, to name just a handful.

But once a year, for going on half a decade now, the venerable track has hosted a different kind of “grand prix.” Instead of shiny, multimillion-dollar race cars, the competition is much more…well, pedestrian.

That’s because they are pedestrians. And the only four-wheeled vehicles, generally, are strollers filled with toddlers, powered by parents who bring the whole family to take part in The Arc of Schuyler’s Grand Prix. Participants run or walk–-or push those strollers—over the scenic, high-banked track’s famed 3.4-mile distance. It’s a unique day of family fun and fundraising for The Arc of Schuyler. Some take it seriously (medallions are awarded to winners) while others just stroll (there is a one-mile loop for those 28

who prefer a casual walk).

This year’s event, which will be the fifth annual, is Saturday, April 14, and, as always, it coincides with the opening of the track for the racing season. “We are so pleased to partner with the Arc of Schuyler County,” says Watkins Glen International President Michael Printup. “Their marquee fundraising event, the Grand Prix during our Opening Weekend at The Glen, is something that so many people in our community look forward to each year. How many other major league sports venues give you the opportunity to touch, let alone walk and run, on their surface? We are able to do that here at WGI, and it’s a pleasure to be a part of their mission.”

The Arc of Schuyler is a family-based non-profit organization dedicated to meeting the needs of people, and the families of people, with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism, by providing quality services and advocacy. Through community partnerships, they create innovative opportunities for learning and participation that encourage independence and inclusion. This annual charity race benefitting The Arc has attracted more than 2,000 participants and raised nearly $40,000 since 2014. Runners and

walkers get the green flag at 8 a.m., and the event includes sponsors and vendors, T-shirts, an awards ceremony, live music, food, and a raffle and post-race party at Grist Iron Brewing Co. in Burdett.

Holly Baker, the director of community relations for The Arc of Schuyler, says the number of participants has grown steadily and at a pace that organizers did not expect. “The first year, we didn’t have extremely high expectations, we thought maybe 250 people,” she reflects. “But we had about 500, and that was really exciting so we knew we had a home run with the event. We’ve probably added about 100 more each year and last year had about 800.”

“The Grand Prix Run has grown tremendously since its debut in 2014,” adds Arc Executive Director Jeannette Frank. “Its success is a result of community partnerships between The Arc of Schuyler, Watkins Glen International, generous local sponsors, volunteers, and people who want to support a great organization in Schuyler County.”

Tom McGarry, of nearby Montour Falls, is a runner himself and has been on the event’s planning committee from the start.

After brainstorming some fun and fund-raising ideas, he suggested a race. Everybody liked that, so the question became where.

“We approached Watkins Glen, and they were very open to it,” Tom says. “Being a runner myself, I thought it was quite a unique location. It’s not a normal distance because there are 5Ks (3.1 miles) and 10Ks (6.2), but ours is 3.4 miles because it’s based on the length of the track.” He adds that the track’s high banks and hills also add to the race’s special appeal.

As part of the track’s opening weekend, participants also can purchase tickets after The Arc Grand Prix to drive their own personal vehicles around the circuit. “It’s a win-win for the track because it’s their opening day,” says Tom, “and so there are people already there, and it fits together with what they’re doing and what we’re doing to raise awareness and raise some funds.”

Dena Carrigan also volunteers at the event, and she says it has become not just a race but a destination, with many out-of-state participants planning vacations and long weekends around it.

“Visitors come to Schuyler County to participate in this event and the Watkins Glen International Opening Weekend activities that follow,” she says. “We integrate the event into our community by partnering with local businesses and sponsors to create an experience beyond the race. As examples, there’s a packet pickup event at Colonial Pottery & Creamery in Watkins Glen and a very well attended after-party at Grist Iron. It’s not uncommon to see people wearing race shirts eating at local restaurants or visiting shops and wineries following the race. We’re also thrilled to have local radio show host Ally Payne as our event emcee. I’m proud to be involved with the Arc, this event, and excited about its impact on our community.”

You can pre-register at www.arcgrandprixrun.org. Early registration for adults is twenty-five dollars, which increases to thirty dollars come race day; registration for children thirteen and under is fifteen dollars.

Then, dust off the running shoes, and if you’re bringing the toddlers, oil up the wheels on the strollers—just like Mario Andretti or Mark Martin might do.

Mike Cutillo is a journalist who has covered the Finger Lakes region for over thirty years. Watkins Glen—both the racetrack and the bustling village—is one of his favorite spots.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! 10AM - 5PM

S

18

, 20

22 ept.

8231 Pleasant Valley Rd. Hammondsport, NY 14840 FLBM.ORG

INFO@FLBM.ORG (607) 569-2222

There’s always something happening in Hammondsport!

April 14-15: Keuka Lake Wine Trail’s Tapas & Wine Weekend May 5-6 & 19-20: Keuka Lake Wine Trail’s Keuka in Bloom June 2: Hammondsport’s Village Yard Sales June 23-24: Keuka Lake Wine Trail’s Fire it Up BBQ & Wine Weekend July & August: The Palettes of Keuka area art display July & August: Music in the Park: 6p-8p Thursdays on the Village Square July 7-8: Keuka Lake Art Show July 21-22: Wine Country Classic Boats’ Boat Show & Regatta August 18-19: Hammondsport Festival of Crafts

w w w. h a m m o n d s p o r t . o r g 29

welcome to

BRADFORD CO.

Aquatic art: A welded metal fish creation by sculptor Craig Wilson (top) and colorful ‘Peter the Perch’ by collage artist Phiddy Webb.

Funded in part by the Bradford County Tourism Promotion Agency

All Under One Roof...

SMALL ANIMAL • LARGE ANIMAL

W W W. T R OY V E TC L I N I C . C O M

Spring and so are the

SERVICES OFFERED: Healthy Wellness Exams Exams for Sick Pets Laser Surgical Procedures Portable Digital Radiology Acupuncture In-House Bovine Pregnancy Testing Customer Pet Portal • Online Store House Calls Available Pet Cremation Services Fully Stocked Pharmacies Pet Suplies: Flea & Tick Medication Food, Toys & Treats 24-Hour Emergency Service for Both Clinics In-House Grooming Suite

Is Just Around the Corner...

CHICKS • GUINEAS • TURKEY & BANTAMS FIRST COME—FIRST SERVED Check out our Poultry Schedule on Facebook.

Call to ensure Arrival!

ROCKWELL’S

Feed, Farm & Pet Supply

Your Neighborhood Pet Supply Store!

1943 SHUMWAY HILL RD., WELLSBORO, PA HOURS: 7:30-5:00 M-F • 8:00-1:00 SAT. 570-724-0967 OR 877-797-4575 30

Happy Easter!

Art continued from page 26

As Rosemary applies, and we discuss, glaze, Alan has been working a piece of clay, quickly transforming a non-descript slab into a beautifully formed shad. “I started out making a trout, but it wanted to be a shad,” he muses. “We often say that if we listen to what the fish wants, it comes out good. That’s why we need so many glazes, because they ask for a lot.” The tail is forked—he skillfully shapes it into two parts and uses a special knife to create divisions that resemble tail fins. For the whites of the eye he uses porcelain and a high-iron clay for the iris. The last step is to remove clay to create a hollow form. “You have to gut the fish,” Alan jokes.

Other artists in the Finger Lakes are inspired by the scaly swimmers within our lakes. Craig Wilson, with a life-long appreciation of wildlife, works in metal and wire. The Rochesterarea sculptor has been creating contemporary figures of fish, frogs, and other nature-inspired scenes for more than fifty years.

Penn Yan collage artist Phiddy Webb uses texture and patterns to create unique, colorful designs, of which fish are some of the most popular. The whimsy in Phiddy’s work is reflected in the names of her pieces, such as Wiley the Walleye and Peggy the Perch. The Bennetts, Craig, and Phiddy will be featured at the Arts Center of Yates County’s (artscenter@ycac.org) Gone Fishin’ exhibit opening on Friday, May 4 from 5-7 p.m. The show will be on display through June 2.

Other local venues for Alan and Rosemary’s artwork include: Spotlight Exhibition, West End Gallery, www.westendgallery.net, through the end of April; Arts in Bloom Open Studios, Steuben County Art Trail, www.artsinbloom.net, April 28-29, with Alan and Rosemary demonstrating Raku both days at their studio; Artizann’s, Naples, www.naplesvalleyny.com/artizanns-giftsfinger-lakes; Arts Center of Yates County, Penn Yan. Nicole Landers is a freelance writer in the Finger Lakes. Her interests include the arts, agriculture, and natural environment.

REAL ESTATE

Start Planning your

Dream Home

Start Planning your

Dream Home

Hearthstone features an unmatched ability to create any imaginable style of custom, luxury, hand-crafted Log and Timber Frame homes or Heavy Timber commercial structures.

Scott Walker,your Project Manager Start Planning

570-295-1083 • Lock Haven, PA 17745 swalker@hearthstonehomes.com • www.hearthstonehomes.com

Dream Home

Hearthstone features an unmatched ability to create any imaginable style of custom, luxury, hand-crafted Log and Timber Frame homes or Heavy Timber commercial structures.

Scott Walker, Project Manager

570-295-1083 • Lock Haven, PA 17745 swalker@hearthstonehomes.com • www.hearthstonehomes.com

Hearthstone features an unmatched ability to create any imaginable style of custom, luxury, handcrafted Log and Timber Frame homes or Heavy Timber commercial structures.

Scott Walker, Project Manager: 570-295-1083 Lock Haven, PA 17745 • swalker@hearthstonehomes.com

www.hearthstonehomes.com

754 Canton Street, Troy PA • 570-297-7770 HOURS: Monday-Saturday 8am-5pm 31

REAL ESTATE

814-435-7788

CIMINO HARDWARE

Buy online at Truevalue.com. Pick up in store.

Spring Lawn & Garden

SALE

Everything You Need for Your Fishing Adventures!

Licenses • Gear • Bait Apparel & More!

16 West Street • Galeton, PA 16922 • 814-435-9911 159 US Route 6 • Coudersport, PA 16915 • 814-274-2218

SEPTIC PUMPING & PORTABLE TOILETS • Softwashing is safer and cleans better than power washing.

• We clean decks, patios and docks.

• Eco-Friendly and biodegradable cleaners.

We’re #1 in the #2 Business!

491 YAHN ROAD • GALETON, PA

800-264-8274

K

aties oncrete

11261 Rt. 287 MIDDLEBURY CTR., PA 570-376-2005

BUY 1, GET 1 FOR

5

$ *

For all your concrete needs.

Specializing in ready mix & precast concrete.

Call Today & Ask for Your FREE estimate!

206 W. Water Street ADDISON, NY 607-359-3436

Includes all Best Look® Interior and Exterior Paints** and Exterior Stains * Gallon-sized containers. Of equal or lesser value. **Excludes oil-based paints and floor enamels.

Limit 4 per customer. See store for details.

ONLY $ 629,900

BUY ONE GET ONE

FREE

WHITE DOVE™ ROLLER COVER * Includes 3/8" and 1/2" naps only.

Of equal or lesser value.

778527 778554

477 Tioga Street Wellsboro, PA Office: 570-723-8484 Fax: 570-723-8604

BORDERING 1,000s OF ACRES OF STATE LANDS!

MOUNTAIN HOME OF A LIFETIME ON 31 ACRES 3+ beds, VERY open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, stone fireplace, luxury kitchen, finished full basement with game room, family room, professional office, 3 car attached garage. Also has a 2 car detached garage with upstairs, outdoor kitchen area, and deck. Fully furnished with toys in the garage!

MLSR130639A

www.mvrwellsboro.com 32

YOU NEED IT — WE HAVE IT It’s in our warehouse — FAST & FREE delivery to our store!

S AV I N G S S TA R T APRIL 19-28

PD: APR 2018 (770)

w& Im pro ved hi Ve cle Lis tin gs!

Matthews Motor Company is a family owned and operated full service car dealership. We have an on-site NAPA Service Center and a AAA Approved Body Shop. We also have the largest Car Rental Fleet in Tioga County. County.

CPHARMACY ooke’s

Prescriptions In-Town Delivery 570-297-2848 14 Elmira Street Troy, PA 16947

Promote your business here!

Call (570)724-3838!

SHOPPING

Ne

Visit our Website at

www.matthewsmotorcompany.com

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

SERVICE DIRECTORY

SHOPPING

Mountain Home

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Autism Fantasy Fiction

by Paul Nelson

Inspired by his autistic son Michael

FISHER’S AUTISM TRILOGY

Available at Amazon & Bookstores

paulcnelsonbooks.strikingly.com “For Real Service in Real Estate”

114 E. High St., Painted Post, NY Ph: 607-937-5438 • Fax: 607-962-3536 rwintersre@stny.rr.com 4525 County Rt. 11 Cameron Mills, NY $102,500

Morris Chair Shop

Nice older home, has 5 bdrms, 1 1/2 baths, awesome sun porch, all natural hardwood floors, 4 upstairs bdrms, 1 bdrm down. Carriage house, black smith shop. 1.2 ACRES ................................ C-6 www.realestatebywinters.com

54 Windsor Ln., Morris, PA 16938 (570) 353-2735 www.MorrisChairShop.com

Bowl for Kids Sake!

Benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Twin Tiers in Tioga County, PA

Friday, April 27th 7pm to 10pm Maple Lanes Bowling Alley

Hauber ’s Jewelry • Diamonds & Quality Jewelry • Bulova & Seiko Watches and Clocks • Fenton, Charms, Trophies and Engraving “We do watch batteries!”

Delivery Available

FEATURING

ATHENS PENNA.

Gun Safes • All Sizes

607-426-9533 • 570-882-9971 607-738-7985

Register Online at www.bbbstwintiers.org or call 570-265-3009

Made in the USA!

Liberty book Shop 1 East Park St., Avis, PA 17721 • 570-753-5201 www.TheLibertyBookShop.com

Used, Rare and Out-of-Print Books.

Your source for unusual books on any subject.

Browse our in-stock selection of over 40,000 hardcover books and paperbacks.

Spend the night in a bookshop!

See listings on Airbnb.com.

HOURS: Thurs & Fri 10-6; Sat 10-3

(or by appointment, feel free to just call)

FUN...

ALWAYS IN BLOOM

25 Main St. Wellsboro, PA • 570-723-4263 www.popscultureshoppe.com 33

B A C K O F T H E M O U N TA I N

Nature’s Palette

By Bernadette Chiaramonte

W

hen April winds arrive, and the soft rains patter onto the awaiting Earth, small white heads of bloodroot, nestled among the dried leaves, stand at attention along the ragged, wooded roadsides. I am as fascinated by the green capes that wrap them so gracefully as I am by the blossoms themselves.

34

LAKEFRONT

LIVING

Nestled in the “Napa Valley of the East” you will love to call Keuka Harbor

HOME.

Voted America’s coolest small town in 2011, one can enjoy over 90 wineries within driving distance, unique artistic shops and a quaint village atmosphere! Relax with a cup of coffee on your private patio or sip wine on your dock as you view a slice of heaven on one of New York State’s cleanest lakes.

Visit

keukaharbor.com

Call today for more information

716.909.1785

bretllewellyn@HowardHanna.com

Bret Llewellyn: Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker, 504 Elmwood Ave. Buffalo, NY 14222 Sponsor: Garrett Landing, LLC: 4 Centre Drive Orchard Park, NY 14127

Orthopaedic excellence.

We are proud to be the only joint replacement program in the region awarded the Gold Seal of Approval by The Joint Commission, which represents the highest standard of care.

That means you can have confidence that the best orthopaedic care for hip and knee replacement is right here at UPMC Susquehanna.

JOINT REPLACEMENT PROGRAM

570-321-2020 | UPMCSusquehanna.org/Ortho 36