Let the Adventure Begin - May 2023

Camp Turner Celebrating 100 Years at Allegany State Park

Quaker Trail Extension

Kinzua Bridge State Park Tornado

New Activities at Rock City Park

Bigfoot Hunter Coming to Kane

Picture this for a few moments. In an early part of the day you go on a hike in a forest area — perhaps in an area that is among the wildest places in the United States east of the Mississippi River.

The air, still cool for the season, is fresh and clean and you marvel at the mountain laurel that is in full bloom. Perhaps you take out a pack rod and dip a line in a bubbling stream along the trail and you hook a little jewel of a wild brook trout.

With the brisk morning hike over, you sit down to a delicious lunch in locally-owned restaurant or cafe. Maybe after some rich coffee has been enjoyed, you take a stroll along the

Venture Out season is upon us

town’s business district and do a bit of shopping in locally-owned stores. Maybe it’s then back home (or to the camp, a campsite, hotel or vacation rental) for a rest and then to freshen up. Later it’s out to dinner at another great local spot that adds its own flavors and touches any number of delightful offerings.

The night is then capped off by perhaps enjoying a favorite drink and music played by talented area musicians at a well-known tavern. Also possible that night is taking in a concert by a renowned artist at a topflight casino/events venue.

By most folks’ standards, that would have been a heck of a day, and

it’s all so easily within reach — any day of the week — for residents and visitors of the Alleghenies during the summer season.

The myriad activities such as hiking, riding, fishing, boating and camping can be enjoyed in endless combinations and tied in to stops at favorite restaurants and taverns as we are free to wander and shop in our favorite small businesses of the villages and towns.

The natural beauty and accessibility of the Alleghenies is there for us and should never be taken for granted. The past few years many of us have rediscovered some of the simple pleasures of walking or cycling on a

trail, casting a line, floating on a river and spending a day in the woods or a weekend at a campsite. Visitors from outside the area have discovered what life can be like in the Alleghenies as well, and they are returning for more.

So, as we like to say, Venture Out, both on the trails and waterways and the village and town sidewalks. Keep up the pursuit of outdoor activities that have become ever more popular, and take part in your favorite community events and celebrations, as well as entertainment venues, in the Alleghenies.

Venture Out season is upon us.

With a large inventory, from parts to paint, Randolph Auto has all you could possibly need for your Auto, Truck, Farm or Fleet.

Quaker Trail extension nearing completion in Allegany State Park

By Rick Miller

QUAKER RUN — Phase 2 of the Quaker Multi-Use Trail in Allegany State Park is nearing completion, the culmination of an $8.5 million investment in safety and connectivity for walkers, hikers and bicyclists in the Quaker Area.

Crews are putting the finishing touches on a 3.6-mile extension of the first phase of the trail, 1.6 miles of 10-foot wide blacktopped pathway with several bridges that runs from Taft Trail to the Quaker Store.

The extension of the trail goes from Quaker Store to the parking lot at the Quaker Lake Bathhouse. There are numerous scenic overlooks on the path along the length of Quaker Lake.

The initial 1.6-mile path cost nearly $2 million and was constructed in 2020. There are four bridges on the 10-foot-wide trail between Taft Trail and Quaker Store — three which are 60 feet long and one 20-foot bridge.

The 3.6-mile extension to Quaker Lake features a bridge which crosses Quaker Run near the current bridge that carries traffic to Cain Hollow Campground and the Quaker Bathhouse. The $6.5 million cost of the trail extension includes $1.2 million grant from the Ralph C. Wilson Foundation.

Park officials see the Quaker Run MultiUse Trail as a key transportation and rec-

reation trail designed to provide a safe and enjoyable means of biking or hiking around the Quaker Run area.

Jay Bailey, regional director for the Allegany Region of the Office of State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, said, “The work is currently ongoing, and is scheduled to be completed in late spring, barring any setbacks due to weather. The trail will be fully open to the public for the summer season.”

The asphalt-paved trail connects destinations across the Quaker Area, including camping areas, hiking trails and recreational areas.

The trail extension will include eight pedestrian bridges and an elevated boardwalk crossing a wetland. As with the first section of the trail, it will traverse through woodlands, across streams and other natural features, connecting with trailheads and park amenities along the way to the swimming beach.

“There is a theoretical Phase 3 in our minds that would extend the trail to Science Lake in some form, though no prediction on a timeframe or what that segment would ultimately look like is clear for now,” Bailey said. “In the meantime, we hope our campers and the general public enjoy the major improvements that Phase 1 and Phase 2 provide in moving about the park in a safe and enjoyable way.”

Photos by Rick Miller Quaker Lake is visible from the new Quaker Multi-Use Trail in Allegany State Park. Phase 2 is almost complete at a cost of $6.5 million including $1.2 million from he Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation.

Several bridges carry the new Quaker Area Multi-Use Trail over Quaker Run near Quaker Lake. The new 3.6-mile section will open in time for summer hiking and biking, joining the initial 1.6 miles of the initial trail that began in 2020.

Kinzua Bridge State Park marking 20 years since tornado struck

By Marcie Schellhammer

Kinzua Bridge State Park is marking some milestone anniversaries this year — 60 years since the park’s creation and 20 years since an F1 tornado struck the viaduct, knocking over 11 of its 20 towers.

The Beginning

Construction of the original iron viaduct began during 1881, starting with the placement of the stone piers. When completed during 1882, the Kinzua Bridge Viaduct was the highest railroad viaduct in the world. It was constructed as an alternative to laying an additional eight miles of track over rough terrain along the line leading to McKean County’s coal, timber, and oil lands.

Built of iron, the original viaduct was approximately 301 feet high, 2,053 feet long, and weighed 3,105,000 pounds. The towers were a patented design called Phoenix Columns. The columns were lighter in weight and had greater strength than cast iron columns of similar shape and size.

By 1900, it became necessary to rebuild the entire structure with steel to accommodate heavier trains. Later that year, about 100 to 150 men, working 10-hour shifts, completed the rebuild in 105 days. The new steel viaduct had the same measurements, but now weighed 6,706,000 pounds. That build stood the test of time.

Creation of the park

For nearly 60 years, freight was hauled across the viaduct, high above the Kinzua Gorge. However, freight traffic was discontinued in 1959, and the Erie Railroad sold the bridge to scrap metal dealer Nick Kovalchick of Indiana, Pa., for $76,000.

Kovalchick saw the bridge and reconsidered, selling it to the state instead.

In 1963, Gov. William Scranton signed a law that created Kinzua Bridge State Park, which officially opened during 1970. Kinzua Viaduct received national recognition when it was placed on the National Register of Historic Civil Engineering Landmarks in 1977. Beginning during 1987, excursion trains from Knox & Kane traveled from Marienville through the Allegheny National Forest, stopping on Kinzua Viaduct before returning to their point of origin.

Deterioration

Spot inspections had shown issues with rust and deterioration, so in 2002, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources shut down the bridge to the passenger train to do a full-scale inspection.

During the inspection engineers found sections of steel were rusted through. Then, during August of 2002, the bridge was closed to all traffic, including pedestrians. Interest and attendance waned.

Engineers determined high winds could create lateral pressure on the bridge, causing it to shift the center of gravity, thus increasing the weight on one side. Such an event could send the whole bridge crashing to the bottom of the Kinzua Creek Valley.

Massive repair efforts began in

2003 in an effort to save the structure. Beginning in February, 2003, W. M. Brode Co. of Newcomerstown, Ohio, a national leader in railroad bridge construction and repair, began working to restore Kinzua Viaduct.

Brode’s crew was at the bridge on July 21, 2003. They had stopped working for the day because the weather was deteriorating.

The tornado

At approximately 3:15 p.m., an F1 tornado (wind speed 73 – 112 mph) struck the side of Kinzua Viaduct. Eleven towers from the center of the bridge were torn from their concrete bases and thrown to the valley floor.

In 2004, the DCNR informed Knox & Kane that the bridge would not be rebuilt.

The Knox & Kane Railroad was sold at auction in 2008 to Kovalchick Corp. — the same company that had saved the viaduct in 1959. The rails were scrapped, and the rail corridor was turned into a rails-to-trails project.

As for the Kinzua Bridge State Park, out of tragedy came triumph.

The rebirth

While worries mounted that all hope was lost for the majestic structure, the DCNR decided to reimagine the park as a learning experience.

Contractors worked to build a skywalk, which would serve as an overlook for the fallen towers on the floor of the Kinzua Gorge. The skywalk includes a glass floor that affords a look straight down at the bridge below. The tracks and decking that had been on the bridge were removed at the skywalk.

A state-of-the-art visitors center was erected at the park as well. The center holds interactive historical displays, a train car, a huge tower with a statue of a man suspended from the side as the builders would have been. There is information on wildlife and engineering. The facility contains a store that sells products made in the PA Wilds.

What began as an engineering marvel has become a destination attraction that tells its history and educates visitors on nature in the park itself.

New activities to be featured at Rock City Park

By Kate Day Sager

After 21 years of hosting annual activities at Rock City Park, owners Dale and Cindy Smith decided to try something new.

On the third Saturday of every month this season, the historic park will feature flea markets for the public. The event will replace the annual arts and craft show, explained Cindy Smith.

“Dale and I came up with this idea after we participated in a flea market in Florida to see how it works. So we decided that we’re going to host a flea market here from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. the third Saturday of every month.”

The Smiths have received enthusiastic responses from those who want to participate in the event. The fee to rent a space is $35.

The park, featuring gigantic rock formations along hiking trails, opened May 1 and will remain open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week through

Oct. 31. The facility is located at 505 Route 16 South near Olean, N.Y.

Cindy Smith said the park will continue some of its older traditions, such as the annual Gem and Mineral Show. This year’s show will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 30 and Oct. 1.

“People really look forward to the (Gem and Mineral Show), and we do, too,” she added.

As for the preparations involved in opening the park for the season, the Smiths said there were plenty of fallen branches and other debris to collect from the trails.

“We had a couple of really wild wind storms this past winter,” Cindy Smith recalled.. The clean-up work continued through the first few weeks of the park’s opening, but didn’t deter visitors who arrived from local communities, as well as from around the nation. The park is an enjoyable destination for the Smiths, too.

“Everyday is a new experience, we

enjoy being here,” Dale Smith shared. “It’s kind of refreshing to come here every spring.”

As in the past, a favorite attraction at the park is the lifesize statue of Bigfoot, which can be found at the beginning of the trail. A silhouette of Bigfoot will be featured on each of the new signs that are being created to identify the large rock formations along the trails.

Also drawn to the park over the years have been young couples who want to experience unique weddings.

“We have some weddings lined up by people who want to get married here,” Cindy Smith commented. “One couple wants to get married at the end of the month (May); they had their first date here and they’re so excited.”

The majority of couples have their ceremonies in a gazebo on top of large rocks near the entrance to the trail. The park averages about a half

a dozen weddings a year. In fact, the Smiths’ own son and daughter-inlaw married at the park 20 years ago. Some of the newlyweds also have had their photos taken with Bigfoot.

For the average visitor, there are scenic views on the 45-minute hiking trail along the park’s prehistoric ocean floor. The trail also contains the largest exposure of quartz conglomerate in the world among the gigantic rock formations.

In addition, visitors can enjoy picnic areas, an expanded museum, a souvenir and rock shop, virtual video tour, fluorescent rock room, and refreshments and snacks. Merchandise offered includes Bigfoot memorabilia and clothing such as hoodies and souvenirs.

For more information, contact the park at 866-404-ROCK or visit online at www.rockcitypark.com.

Photos Kate Day Sager

Dale and Cindy Smith help burn some of the fallen branches that were found along the Rock City Park grounds during cleanup operations at the historic park this spring.

A family from New Mexico relax at a picnic table in Rock City Park prior to hiking the trail with other family members.

Camp Turner celebrating 100 years at Allegany State Park

By Deb Everts

QUAKER RUN — Camp Turner

is hosting a Centennial Celebration Weekend July 13-15 to commemorate its 100th anniversary operating at Allegany State Park.

The three-day celebration marking the camp’s big milestone year will be a special one for campers, staff members and alumni alike. In honor of the historic occasion, the event will be filled with camp activities, a Mass, a banquet and will conclude with a campfire.

An alumni social will take place at Mr. Goodbar in Buffalo on Thursday, July 13, giving alums the opportunity to share memories and stories of their days at Camp Turner.

The real celebration begins Saturday, July 15 when guests will enjoy a full afternoon and evening of activities from 1 to 7:30. The day will include a special Mass featuring the Diocese of Buffalo’s Bishop Michael Fisher, a celebration banquet and a centennial campfire with songs, skits and s’mores to round out the evening.

Guests will enjoy camp activities including archery, horseback riding, arts and crafts, guided nature hikes and more. Camp staff will be available

to give tours, answer questions and provide more information.

“There are going to be so many people here that were campers and staff members in the 1960s, ’70s, ’80s and ’90s — every decade through right now,” said Camp Director John Mann. “They all love the same thing. They all are committed to the mission of camp, which is ‘honor God in the children confided to our care.’”

Anyone who worked on staff, spent a summer as a camper or came with their favorite group to Camp Turner should sign up soon and bring their family for this once in a lifetime event. Attendees must RSVP prior to both the Alumni Social and main celebration event by reserving a spot online at eventbrite.com.

THE CAMP was originally established in 1922 by the Rev. Charles A. Kreahn as a resident camp for boys between 8 and 15 at Bear Lake. In 1923, the camp moved to its second site within the recently established Allegany State Park.

Mann said the camp became a coed camp in 1990 when Camp Maryglen, an all-girls camp in Eden, closed and they merged.

Now sponsored by Our Lady of Victory Charities (OLV), children ages 7 to 16 of all religious affiliations come to the camp from all over Western New York. The camp’s programming encourages the development of community living skills, self-care skills, interpersonal skills, values and spirituality.

“We want to help kids discover the presence of God in each other, in the staff and in nature,” Mann said.

Summer Camp has a capacity of 80 to 90 kids each week, according to Mann. He said the camp is not only a fun trip, but it’s also an educational one. Campers can do things like wood shop to learn about basic tool safety and how to use the tools. They learn about nature when they go for hikes in the forest.

Camp activities include horseback riding, horse care, archery, hiking, basketball, soccer, lacrosse, court hockey, nature study, low ropes course, arts and crafts, campfires, creek-walking, all kinds of indoor and outdoor games, beach trips, dances and more.

Other special activities offered during most sessions include fishing, drama, Zumba, table games and digital photography. Special programs

for older campers include a high ropes course adventure, backpacking trips, outings and leadership training workshops.

PEOPLE MAY wonder what keeps Mann coming back year after year.

Mann takes great pride in being a part of the history of Camp Turner that is now 100 years old. He has been camp director for 20 years, starting out as a counselor in 1983. He has also operated Winter Camp for a number of years.

Mann said he’s very proud of the campers. He hopes to be a good influence on them by encouraging and inspiring them to go out into the world to do good.

“It’s also the pride of watching the staff grow up and seeing what they accomplish after they go out in the world,” he said. “They make lifetime friendships and they learn a lot of job skills that are transferable to a wide variety of careers.”

Camp Turner is located at 9150, Route 3, on the Quaker-side of Allegany State Park. More details and information can be found online at campturner.com or by calling (716) 354-4555.

Photo provided Camp Turner, a resident camp for boys and girls, is celebrating its 100-year anniversary of being established in Allegany State Park. Shown is a group of older campers on the trail during an overnight backpacking trip last summer.

Bigfoot hunter, researcher, documentary producer coming to libraries

By Mandy Colosimo

Two local libraries will be hosting Mike Familant, a Bigfoot researcher and documentary producer, in June. He will be at the Friends’ Memorial Public Library in Kane, at 7 p.m. on June 7, and at the Hamlin Memorial Library in Smethport at 7 p.m. on June 12. Both events are free to the public. Expect the presentation to last about an hour and include a powerpoint presentation showcasing real evidence, stories from expeditions, and much more. A question and answer session will be held after the presentation and Familant will be available after for photographs and autographs.

Familant is a Bigfoot researcher and producer of the documentary series, “In the Shadow of Big Red Eye.” He and his research team travel across the United States and document their expeditions searching for America’s most elusive, and best loved, cryptid

— Bigfoot. He has been researching this amazing creature for over 12 years, and has captured some impressive evidence along the way, from the Florida swamps to the North Country of Maine and everywhere in between.

In June, he will share his evidence and experiences with patrons and community members and exhibit some extraordinary evidence backed by facts which he and his team have collected throughout his journey, along with some of the unfortunate experiences which come along with Bigfooting.

Bigfoot, Sasquatch, Grassman, Skunk Ape or Big Red Eye, whatever name you choose to call this large, bipedal hominid, Familant has probably tried to track it down.

“After all, a world with the possibility of Bigfoot or the Loch Ness Monster is far superior than one without,” he said.

According to Familant, “Twelve years ago, a profound fifteen min-

utes changed the direction of my life forever. Imagine camping for the first time in your life, in the middle of the vast North Florida wilderness — tens of thousands of acres of nothing but you and a few people. At 4 a.m., while sitting around the campfire, fist-sized rocks, five of them, are hurled at you, crashing down through the pine canopy, landing no more than 10 feet away. My friend threw a rock back, and at that exact moment I knew it wasn’t a person that threw those rocks when a 10-pound, laptop-sized rock crashed down on the forest floor next to us.”

Familant said for the show, they don’t just look for Bigfoot. There is a mission statement, of the show, to get friends and families off the couch and into nature to see what this amaz-

ing world has to offer. And, he has noticed that many people, since the COVID lockdowns ended, are out exploring and venturing more outside. For a sneak peek, check out a few of his show including his docuseries “Squatchables” (how to get into Bigfooting) on his YouTube Channel, “Sussex County Bigfoot,” or follow his Facebook page “In the Shadow of Big Red Eye” to keep up with the team’s expeditions and to see their newest evidence.

Bigfoot hunter, Mike Familant, will give presentations in June at the library in Kane and the library in Smethport.

Mike Familant, the producer of the documentary series, “In the Shadow of Big Red Eye,” will be making stops in Kane and Smethport in June to show evidence he has collected in his travels as a hunter and researcher of Bigfoot.

Enjoy favorite summer events in Ellicottville

By Deb Everts

ELLICOTTVILLE — With summer just around the corner, the Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce and Holiday Valley Resort are currently planning a full schedule of favorite events for visitors to enjoy.

Start the summer off June 17 at Holiday Valley’s popular Mudslide Obstacle Trail Run.

For a good muddy time, participants can choose between the long course, short course or the kids race. All runners will be timed and awarded a finisher’s medal. To register for the mudslide event, visit online at runsignup.com.

Rock in the Fourth of July weekend, June 30 to July 2, at Ellicottville’s Summer Music Festival.

Presented by the chamber and hosted by Holiday Valley, the threeday music event featuring live music, outdoor theater and a pet parade is one of the area’s biggest and most anticipated events of the year.

The festival will feature a live rock music concert at 7 p.m. Saturday on the slopes of Holiday Valley Resort.

Featuring The Players — former members of Chicago and Earth, Wind & Fire — and opening act Barracuda-America’s Heart Tribute, fans can expect to hear all the great hits from these legendary icons.

The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra will close out the music festival at 8 p.m. Sunday,, performing patriotic favorites to a spectacular fireworks display hosted by the resort.

“This is an amazing weekend that always brings a great crowd to our town,” said Brian McFadden, the chamber’s executive director. “We’ve been hosting Summer Music Fest for over 25 years now and it never disappoints. One of the things our guests love about this event is that you can bring your own chairs, blankets and picnic baskets into the concerts, and there are no parking fees. It’s a oneof-a-kind experience and very family-friendly. Kids love it just as much as adults.”

People looking for an outdoor, evening activity will have the Ellicottville Gazebo Series to look forward to this summer.

Presented by the Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Niagara Label Company, locals and visitors alike will have the opportunity to enjoy free, live music performed by some of the region’s most talented artists while relaxing in the village square every Thursday night from June 30 through Aug. 4. All performances run 7-9 p.m. at the village gazebo.

Holiday Valley will hold its 3rd annual 42 North HillTap Festival Saturday, July 22 from noon to 9 p.m. at Spruce Lake.

Relax to the tunes of Kody & Herren, Ten Cent Howl and The Probables. The ticketed event includes access to the event, two stages of live music, vendor demos, food trucks, chairlift ride and parking. To purchase tickets and find out more, visit ellicottvilleny.com and eventbrite.com.

The annual Jazz and Blues Weekend returns to Ellicottville July 28-30

when the village will come alive with the syncopated rhythm of jazz and the sultry melodies of the blues.

The free, three-day event kicks off Friday and continues through Sunday featuring talented jazz and blues performers on the street and at various restaurants, bars and nightclubs.

Food lovers will flock to the Taste of Ellicottville, Aug. 12 and 13, to sample a smorgasbord of mouth-watering, delicious foods created by some of the best local restaurants.

Experience some of the signature dishes of the local culinary talent in Ellicottville’s walkable four-block village. The event is still in the planning phases. Stay tuned for scheduled hours, judges and updates.

Tickets to Ellicottville’s summer events can be purchased through the chamber’s website at ellicottvilleny. com. For ticket prices and other information, contact the chamber at (716) 699-5046.

Artisans & More

Photo provided

Shown are music lovers on the slopes of Holiday Valley enjoying a previous Summer Music Festival.

salamancahistoricalmuseum.org

125 Main St., Salamanca NY 14779

716-945-2946

Open Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday 10AM-4PM

3 Floors of Exhibits to Explore

Krieger House

What famous showman signed the guest register?

41 Star Flag

Why are there less than 5 known to exist?

Ray Evans

Three times Academy Award Winner (Famous Christmas classic almost had di erent title)

Trees, hills and water surround the region GO CAMPING, ENJOY THE ATTRACTIONS

By Mandy Colosimo

The region is surrounded by forests and hills, rivers, streams and reservoirs. Get out this summer and enjoy all the area has to offer — go camping.

Reservations are easy and can be made online at recreation.gov or by calling (877) 444-6777.

For questions regarding the Allegheny National Forest, which is marking the 100th year since it was established in 2023, reach out to the Bradford Ranger District at (814) 3624613.

The campgrounds listed below are all in the Bradford Ranger District: Kiasutha Campground, named for a Seneca Indian chief, is located near Kane, but includes nearby attractions such as Jake’s Rocks, the Kinzua Dam and Kinzua Beach. Campers in recreational vehicles or tents can enjoy swimming, sailing, power boating, water skiing, and fishing.

The campground has a wheel-

chair friendly fishing area as well. Walleye, bass and musky are a few of the main catches. A fishing license will be required. Check to see which state, New York or Pennsylvania, as well as if an Indian Reservation

license is needed before fishing on the reservoir.

Another campground in the area has a historic past. Red Bridge, also near Kane, was once a German prisoner of war camp during World War II. In the 1960s, as part of the Kinzua Dam project, the campground was constructed. Now, campers, both RV and tenters, can enjoy swimming and bank fishing, with a proper license, on the lake. The campground is on the eastern shore of Kinzua Bay of the Allegheny Reservoir, however, there is not a boat launch or direct access to the water from the campground.

Willow Bay Campgrounds, about 16 miles outside of Bradford, has camping for those who prefer cabins, tents, or want to bring the RV. The bay opens

to the Allegheny Reservoir which allows for even more fun on the water. Enjoy wading in the creek, or swimming, sailing, boating, and water skiing on the bay. Fishing for walleye, bass and musky are typical on the bay and at the reservoir. Permits are required. Other activities in the area include hiking on the North Country National Scenic Trail.

A little further out, near Warren, is Hearts Content Campground. This one boasts having some of the oldest trees, 300-400 year old white pine, hemlock, and beech. Rumor has it that they even whisper to those who listen. There are sites set for tent or RV camping at Hearts Content and hiking or horse riding are a couple of the extra activities some have enjoyed. Although there is a creek, there isn’t any fishing or other water-related activities at this campground.

For more information about the campgrounds, visit https://www. fs.usda.gov/activity/allegheny/ recreation/camping-cabins/?recid=6083&actid=29

Seneca Allegany Casino has full slate of summer shows

By Kellen M. Quigley

SALAMANCA — The Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino has again lined up plenty of entertainment and musical acts for its summer 2023 schedule.

Among those musical acts visiting the Seneca Allegany Events Center this year include REO Speedwagon, the Ultimate Kenny Rogers Tribute, the Oak Ridge Boys and a Musical Tribute to Celion Dion.

The classic rock band REO Speedwagon will perform on the Seneca Allegany Event Center stage at 7 p.m. June 24.

Formed as a college band at the University of Illinois in the late 1960s, REO Speedwagon sped to stardom in the 1970s and ’80s, fueled by a long list of hit songs.

The band earned steady radio play and a legion of fans with hits like “Ridin’ the Storm Out,” “Time for Me To Fly,” “Roll With the Changes,” “Take It on the Run,” “Keep On Loving You,” “Can’t Fight This Feeling” and “In My Dreams,” among others.

The band reached their critical and commercial peak in the 1980s with their 1980 LP “Hi Infidelity” going Diamond with over 10 million copies sold. Their 1978 album “You Can Tune a Piano, but You Can’t Tuna Fish” and subsequent follow-ups “Good Trouble” in 1982 and “Wheels Are Turnin’” in 1984 all went Platinum.

Through it all, REO Speedwagon has sold more than 40 million records, charting 13 Top 40 hit singles while continuing to play high-energy live shows for audiences across the United States and Canada.

Tickets start at $55.

Experience the music of Grammy Award-winning superstar Kenny Rogers with musical experience that spans

over six decades of hit after hit song at 2 p.m. Tuesday, June 27.

This show recreates the magic of a night with Rogers in the Ultimate Kenny Rogers Tribute Show, “The Gambler Returns.”

This full band top production show will take you on a musical journey through the career of an American icon and legend that sold over 120 million albums worldwide and racked up some 24 No.1 hits including “The Gambler,”

“Ruby”, “Lady,”

Through the Years,” “Islands in The Stream,” “Lucille,” “She Believes in Me” and so many more.

Tickets start at $49.

The country vocal quartet Oak Ridge Boys are bringing their Front Porch Singin’ Tour to the Seneca Allegany Event Center stage at 7 p.m.

Saturday, July 22.

The Oak Ridge Boys first stepped onstage together 50 years ago, and they’ve been thrilling audiences ever since. The quartet’s blend of gospel and country music — along with exquisite harmonies — helped propel the Oak Ridge Boys to superstardom and the top of the charts.

The group was founded in 1943 as the Oak Ridge Quartet. They became popular in Southern gospel during the 1950s before changing their name in the 1960s. The current lineup consists of Duane Allen, Joe Bonsall, William

Lee Golden and Richard Sterban.

The Oak Ridge Boys have produced 17 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Country Singles Chart, including “I’ll Be True to You,” “Bobbie Sue,” “I Guess It Never Hurts to Hurt Sometimes,” “Make My Life With Yo,” and the all-time classic “Elvira,” among many others.

Along the way, the Oak Ridge Boys have sold more than 40 million albums and earned scores of industry honors, including multiple Academy of Country Music Awards, Country Music Association Awards and Grammy Awards. The band has also been inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2000 and the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2015.

Tickets start at $25.

Live from Las Vegas, the number one Celine Dion tribute show in the world is coming to the Seneca Allega-

ny state at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 19.

Using her world-class voice to take on the persona of Celine Dion along with her magnetic stage presence and gorgeous custom-made costumes, this show sails through a fantastic set of greatest hits playing to the audience as only Dion can.

Singing her songs with passion, she gets the crowds pumping with “Drove All Night,” “Love Can Move Mountains” and “I’m Alive,” covering every inch of the stage while she powerfully holds that last long, high note of such beautiful ballads as “My Heart Will Go On,” “The Power of Love,” and “Because You Loved Me.”

Tickets start at $49.

Tickets may be purchased online at senecaalleganycasino.com or ticketmaster.com or in person at The Logo Shop inside Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino.

Photo provided

The Oak Ridge Boys are coming to the Seneca Allegany Event Center on Saturday, July 22. The quartet’s members are (from left) Richard Sterban, William Lee Golden, Joe Bonsall and Duane Allen.

Artists announced for popular arts, crafts show in Kane

KANE — Kane’s 17th Annual Art in the Wilds art show is set for Saturday, June 24, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, June 25, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Fine artists and artisans submitted applications and photos to a jury panel, which decided on the final slate of participants for the 2023 show. Artists were chosen for the quality of their work, and with consideration to balancing the variety of media.

Last year the artists were thrilled to be back doing a live show because they missed the interaction with the browsers and buyers in their booths. The Art in the Wilds committee has been planning throughout the year, and again will be planning for a safe show for everyone.

Art in the Wilds welcomes the following artists to the 2023 Show: Ceramics/Pottery: Lana Heckendorn, Karen McKee, Krysta Robinson, Amanda Wolf, Francine Zajac

Fiber arts: Pamela Bartl, Connie Blair, Debbie Penley, Jill Rouke.

Glass: Amy Hahn, Michelle Hoff, Kalpana Lehman

Jewelry: Gerina Faison, Peggy Houser, Christina Krautz, Donna Little,

LeAnne Marquis, Deborah Moyer, Kaylee Taylor, Diane Wright.

Leather: Elie Abdelahad

Mixed Media: Victor & Megan Huston-Field, Dawn Johnson

Painting/Drawing: Chandler Beatty, Al Dornisch, Denise Drummond, Laura Gardner, Jack Paluh, Ellen

Paquette, Alexis Rodefer

Photography: Jane Axman, Larry

Downey, Rocky Holland, Gene Pembroke, Curt Weinhold

Sculpture: Anthony Arkus

Wood: Gregg Kristophel, Jack Northrop, Robert Vrboncic

Art in the Wilds is a family friendly event and a great way to enjoy a day at Evergreen Park. Each year the twoday show draws thousands of people from throughout western Pennsylvania and New York.

“This wonderful art show would not be possible without the support of our generous community-minded sponsors,” said Julie Cleland, President of Art in the Wilds. As a 501(c)3 non profit organization, Art in the Wilds is able to promote the show with local and regional advertising. Donations also provide needed services for the weekend.

Supporters include grants from the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, the Kane Community Development Foundation, the Cleland Endowment and the Northwest Charitable Foundation. Major sponsorships include Zook Motors and Ed and Julie Malmstrom.

In addition, Art in the Wilds partners with several organizations including the Kane Chamber of Commerce, Allegheny National Forest Vacation Bureau, PA Route 6, and the Wilds Cooperative of Pennsylvania. For more information visit www. artinthewilds.org or Facebook.

File photo

Artist Ellen Paquette is shown at an Art in the Wilds show. The annual event is set for June 2425 in Kane.

What to know about Great Wellsville Balloon Rally 2023

By Kathryn Ross

WELLSVILLE — Founded in 1975,

The Great Wellsville Balloon Rally carries decades worth of family entertainment with the 46th annual event set for July 21-23.

But if the Rally was founded in ’75 and this summer is 2023, shouldn’t it be the 48th annual event?

“Nope,” Chairman Brad Thompson explains with one word, “COVID,” canceled the Rally for two years. But even odder than that, and not usually known to many, but still a factoid for local trivialists, in 1988 the 13th Rally was canceled due to superstition and the 14th Great Wellsville Balloon Rally (GWBR) was held in its stead.

But nothing weird is happening this year, Thompson assured. As of mid-May there were 24 balloonists scheduled for the event with only a few slight changes.

“Many of our original pilots are gone now or have retired from ballooning” in lieu of letting their children take the rudder of the airships, he noted. For example, longtime balloonist and many-times balloonmeister Bill Childs, who was first one of the pilots of the blue swirled Carpet Town balloon of old, and since retirement the pilot of the multi-colored Child’s Play, has turned piloting duties over to son Gary.

Thompson noted that stricter physical restrictions concerning high blood pressure and diabetes for pilots are also keeping some of the older pilots from flying in the Rally. But the surnames are very much the same.

Pilots so far are: Jennifer Fritton flying Emilia Air Heart, Gary Childs flying Child’s Play, Brett Engroff flying Stars and Stripes, Damon Flick flying Prism Too, Dawn Chase flying

Peace and Quiet, Dwight Cramer flying Paradise Island IV, Kenny Shumate flying B-Happy, Bob Grandinetti flying Rainbow, Sean Richardson flying Sky Candy, Scott Saxton flying Miss Molly, Tony Saxton flying Rachel’s Dream, Vicki Ketchener flying Blu-By-U, Anthony Seeger flying Carolina Twist, Lee Teitsworth flying Remax, Jim Oliver flying Up-C-Dazey, Rick Buckles flying Typnady, Greg Lavadas flying Yeowaza, Jo-Ellen Smith flying Baby Autumn Aire, Brian McGee, Andrew Rohrer flying Sky Turkey, Keith Sproul flying SkyBluePink, Kyle Buckles flying Rising Star, Kelly Hilberth flying Just Golden and Bruce Byberg flying Autumn Dream.

Photos of each balloon may be found on the Rally’s website: greatwellsvilleballoonrally.com under pilots.

Thompson said they hope to have 30 balloons at the Rally. But high gas prices, stricter regulations and the cost of travelling are limiting factors, even though Short’s Propane supplies the Rally pilots with free propane throughout the event.

Free is the operative word when it comes to the GWBR held at Lagoon Field in Island Park. There is no cost of admission. The committee asks that attendees only keep off the field, don’t smoke (there’s gas around) and please don’t bring pets because of the crowd.

Parking is also limited at the field. Free shuttles run continuously throughout each flight from the Wellsville and RiverWalk plazas on state route 417 and from the Northern Lights Plaza on state route 19 east of the village. Streets leading to the Rally site are often crowded with cars with some visitors walking blocks to get into the event.

There are activities for children, a DJ on Friday night, a live band, and

fireworks display on Saturday night and a food court throughout the weekend offering sustenance at both the morning and evening launches.

The Rally takes off with its first flight at 6 p.m. Friday night followed on Saturday morning at 6 a.m., Saturday night at 6 p.m., and Sunday morning at 6 a.m. It is a weather dependent event. Flight delays are often caused by high winds or nearby thunderstorms and there isn’t much that the Rally can do about that.

However, while waiting for liftoff pilots often sell tethered rides in their balloons. They liftoff for about 100 feet above the field while still tethered to the ground and with their gondolas loaded with riders who paid a small fee. The 30-to60-minute, full-blown rides can be purchased from individual pilots by registering at the GWBR tent.

GWBR Week will kickoff with a parade at 11 a.m. July 15 on Main Street. Events are often scheduled throughout the week including pizza contests, trivia contests and the free Music on the Lawn concert.

During Balloon Rally weekend, there is a Main Street Festival which features a street full of vendors,

games for kids and plenty of hotdogs, burgers, sausages, sweets, and some entertainment. It starts after the first launch on Saturday and ends at 5 p.m.

After Sunday’s 6 a.m. launch the event turns to its pilots, honoring them at a special, private brunch before saying goodbye until next year.

Traditionally the Great Wellsville Balloon Rally poster features a local historic building with a flight of balloons including the balloonmeister’s craft, but this year official Rally artist Tracey Hetzel was given free rein to choose her own subject. She chose to highlight the entire village. The posters and official t-shirts are on sale now at Fisher’s Pharmacy, Community Bank and on the Rally website.

Eldred World War II Museum not to be missed

By Cory Angell

ELDRED — The Eldred World War II Museum is a success story with 8,000 visitors annually. It has gained recognition over the years with scholars of history, other historical organizations and some notable people coming to visit or make presentations.

“Everyone always asks why it’s here,” said Steve Appleby, the curator for education and programs. “There was a munitions plant that was operated in the Eldred area during the war.”

Appleby said George Roudebush, an American lawyer, was involved with the decision to locate the plant in Eldred. About 35 years ago, his son, Tim Roudebush started the museum because he was shocked by how little young people knew about the war.

“He saw the need to educate the next generation,” said Appleby, a retired Army noncommissioned officer and Special Forces soldier who grew up in Eldred. “I see a great need today. We all should learn of the sacrifices of those who came before and be thankful for the freedoms we have. In honor of them, we should take advantage of what we have and reach our full potential, no matter what we do.”

Appleby said there are a lot of student visitors, professors of history and authors who visit the museum. Their last program had 200 in attendance and they continue to grow in popularity as word spreads.

Jim Cheney, the creator of UncoveringPA.com, has visited 1,200 destinations across Pennsylvania for more than a decade. With more than 180,000 followers, his impression was sure to spread the word.

“Despite being a privately owned museum in a small town, it is one of the state’s

most interesting history museums,” said Cheney. “Anyone with an interest in military history should put a visit high on their list of things to see and do in McKean County, Pennsylvania.”

Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity visited the museum and took to her social media saying, “It’s a tremendous facility with an incredible collection of artifacts and memorabilia. The knowledgeable staff have so much to share about World War II. Pennsylvania is lucky to have such a fantastic resource.”

Appleby noted that the National World War II Museum has referred donors of exhibits to the Eldred museum.

“That speaks volumes,” said Appleby. “When our nation’s official World War II Museum knows us and recommends us for exhibits, that really adds to our importance.”

Tyler O. Gum, curator of the Pennsylvania Military Museum in Boalsburg, said it can be hard to quantify the true value of the museum.

“Here you have immediate access to primary sources, artifacts, oral history, and other critical pieces of history,” said Gum. “The work completed in smaller museums is just as important as their larger counterparts. The only difference is they do more work with substantially less resources and fanfare.”

The little museum that could, seems to be chugging along.

“Tim Roudebush had a vision to teach future generations about the sacrifices made by the men and women who won World War II,” said Appleby. “The museum grew from its one room beginning to over 15,000 square feet of regional and international exhibits. The reputation of the museum has grown and is now considered one of the top World War II museums in the world. We’re proud of that.”

You too can visit the Eldred WW II Museum at 201 Main Street in Eldred. Hours for March – November are Tuesday - Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. and visit their website at eldredpawwiimuseum. com.

Photos courtesy of Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity visited the Eldred World War II Museum March 27. Jesse Case, executive director (left) and Steve Appleby, curator (right), provided Garrity, who is a veteran, with a tour.

Nearly $900,000 in upgrades planned at Onoville Marina

By Rick Miller

ONOVILLE — There’s a lot going on at the Cattaraugus County-operated Onoville Marina this summer. And there’s more going on after camping and boating season is over.

Crystal Abers, director of the county Department of Economic Development, Planning and Tourism, which oversees Onoville, said new water, sewer and electric lines are being installed.

A long-awaited upgrade is the availability of high-speed internet services provided by Armstrong Cable,

which should be operational between mid-June and early July.

After the camping and boating season ends in October, Abers said there are plans to replace two bathrooms, the ticket booth and two other buildings. Two of the buildings are expected to be completed this fall and the other three in the spring.

St. George Contracting, Fredonia, is the general contractor and KelKur Electric, Olean, is the electrical contractor for the nearly $900,000 in upgrades.

Construction will not interfere with camping or other marina activities, Abers said.

Onoville Marina has 73 camping sites, 48 of which are seasonal. The transient sites are available for up to 30 days in June and July. All available dock space has also been rented, but transient docks remain available.

Go online to www.onoville.com or follow the link on the Enchanted Mountains website at www.enchantedmountains.com. Users will be redirected to the Campspot site where they can self-register, Abers said.

The marina has 400 slips for boats ranging from $728 for the season for a 22-foot craft to $2,423 per season if your boat is 47 feet long.

The marina’s premier event is

Onofest, which combines musical entertainment with food and vendors for a day of fun in the sun (hopefully). Over the years, Onofest has become a popular regular event. This year’s Onofest is scheduled for July 22 and will feature DJ Slim.

The 12,000-acre Allegheny Reservoir has 91 miles of shoreline, with plenty of places to fish, waterski or just relax.

Cattaraugus County officials are planning to expand camping to county-owned property nearby.

The marina is located at 704 W. Perimeter Road, Frewsburg, N.Y., south of Steamburg off Interstate 86.

Cattaraugus County’s Amish Trail marks 15th year

By Rick Miller

Cattaraugus County’s Amish Trail turns 15 years old this year.

There are just under 3,000 Amish residents, most residing in the western part of the county in the towns of Conewango and Leon.

The Amish Trail was designed to help guide visitors back in time, while at the same time advertising Amish businesses and other area small businesses.

Many visitors come to Cattaraugus County expressly to drive through Amish country to buy quilts or order furniture.

Horse-drawn Amish buggies on the road and farm machinery working the fields, long closelines loaded

with clothes drying in the breeze and children walking to or from a nearby one-room schoolhouse are everyday sights along the Amish Trail.

The Amish Trail’s main focus are the towns of Conewango and Leon, along both sides of Routes 62 and 241, but extends into Dayton, New Albion and Napoli. Another branch of the Amish Trail includes sections of the towns of Otto, East Otto and Mansfield, north and south of County Road 13.

Everything from furniture and sheds to quilts and baked goods can be found along the Amish Trail.

The Cattaraugus County Office of Economic Development, Planning and Tourism lists 137 Amish businesses and dozens of local small businesses along the Amish Trail.

Salamanca, Gowanda and Randolph also have local businesses listed on the Amish Trail. Contact information is also provided.

The latest Amish Trail brochure contains a tear-out map of the trail with numbers that correspond to Amish businesses. There are a large assortment of hand-painted signs advertising their businesses. Among the featured Amish shops in the brochure are:

• Chip off the Oak Block, Seager Hill Road, Conewango Valley, for custom kitchen and bathroom cabinets.

• Countryside Buildings, Seager Hill Road, Conewango Valley, sheds, hunting blinds and custom buildings.

• Country View, Frank Road, Cattaraugus, for quilts, candies, candles, jelly and jam.

continued on next page

Photos by Rick Miller

Wooden sheds and poly furniture are for sale at this Amish-owned business along the Amish Trail in Cattaraugus County.

A horse-drawn Amish buggy rides down Route 62, part of the Amish Trail in western Cattaraugus County.

Amish Trail

• Fairview Lawn Furniture, Amish-made outdoor furniture, picnic tables and swings.

continued from previous page

The Amish community benefits from the program because of the increased exposure to their lifestyles.

Remember to drive slow on the road in Amish country. Give the horse-drawn buggies, wagons and farming implements a wide berth so as not to spook the horses. Slow down and enjoy a relaxing drive.

Be particularly careful driving at night when the buggies are often hard to see. Most have a reflective triangle in the rear of the vehicle and some have a glass lens with a candle for greater visibility.

Don’t forget there are no Sunday sales by the Amish.

As summer progresses, expect to see more roadside stands with fresh vegetables as well as baked goods.

The cost of the Amish Trail signs and brochures are paid for from county bed tax revenues used to promote tourism.

The purpose of the Amish Trail program is not to exploit the Amish, but to bring business to both Amish and other small business shops among the Amish communities.

Amish Trail brochures are available from the county Office of Economic Development, Planning and Tourism or online at www.AmishTrail.com. Use the map to create your own trip through Amish Country. The online map at www.AmishTrail.com/Map can filter Amish business by products.

The Leon Historical Society Museum also offers personalized tours of the Amish Trail and answer questions about the Amish way of life. Call Leon Historian Pat Bromley at (716) 2965709 or for more tour information go online to www.AmishTrail.com/Tour.

Ellicottville’s Spiritual Gem

CRYSTALS OF EVERY SHAPE, TAROT CARDS, SPIRITUAL BOOKS, INTENTION CANDLES DIVINATION TOOLS, SINGING BOWLS, GONGS, DREAMCATCHERS, CRYSTAL JEWELRY & PYROGRAPHY BY LOCAL ARTISANS

NATURAL