Chautauqua Lake Living

Bemus Bay Condos Have New Owner

2012-02-05T08:30:00.000-05:00

Bemus Bay Condos Have New Owner - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Lowe's Inside Out Home Improvement Tips | Produced by Inman News

2012-01-25T16:08:00.000-05:00

Lowe's Inside Out Home Improvement Tips Produced by Inman News

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

New IRS regulations impact owners of rental, investment properties

2012-01-24T12:59:00.000-05:00

New IRS regulations impact owners of rental, investment properties

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

Chautauqua Institution Makes Changes For 2012 Season

2012-01-21T12:55:00.000-05:00

Chautauqua Institution Makes Changes For 2012 Season - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Registration begins for annual Winter Festival Treasure Hunt

2012-01-15T11:05:00.001-05:00

Registration begins for annual Winter Festival Treasure Hunt - ObserverToday.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Dunkirk The Observer

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

Registration begins for annual Winter Festival Treasure Hunt

2012-01-15T11:05:00.000-05:00

Weather has been nice to fishermen

2012-01-12T05:44:00.000-05:00

Weather has been nice to fishermen - ObserverToday.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Dunkirk The Observer

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

A Winter Roller Coaster….Sky High!

2012-01-09T18:13:00.000-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8MCa7hyRZw8&feature=player_embedded

Visit the new Mountain Coaster near the Tannenbaum Lodge and get ready for a thrilling ride down through the woods! The Mountain Coaster is similar to a roller coaster but it is low to the ground and follows the contours of the terrain. You ride alone or with a friend in a “car” attached to rails that pulls you up the hill, then it follows a zig zagging spiraling path down the mountain. You can control their speed of your car with levers on the sides of the car. Children must be at least 3 years old and 36 inches tall to ride with an adult or 8 years and 42 inches tall to ride alone. Riders must be able to perform certain physical tasks to participate. Contact Holiday Valley for more information...

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Who’s Who In Lake Organizations?

2012-01-08T09:38:00.001-05:00

Who’s Who In Lake Organizations? - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

2012-01-02T07:10:00.001-05:00

Chautauqua Lake Single Family Lakefront 2011 House sale statistics will be posted on www.chautauqualakehomes.com/faq.html on or before January 15.

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Holiday Valley Snowmaking Update

2011-12-26T11:07:00.000-05:00

Mother Nature has not been her normal snowy self yet this winter, but never fear...she will eventually arrive! In the meantime Holiday Valley has been making snow at every available opportunity. Below are photos showing the 10 to 15 foot mounds of manmade snow on the Northwind trail.

These mounds were made over 2 nights when the temperatures dropped to the low 20's and teens. The crew lets the snow "cure" for a day then the mounds are spread out over the slope with a hydraulic grooming tractor.

After the anticipated snowfall on Friday night the slope will be groomed once again to open for skiing on Saturday. Holiday Valley currently has 6 slopes open and has made snow on and additional 6 slopes that they anticipate will open over the weekend.

For more information contact

Jane Eshbaugh
Director of Marketing
Holiday Valley Resort
716-699-3904
jeshbaugh@holidayvalley.com

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Holiday Valley Tubing Park and Mountain Coaster set to open this week

2011-12-24T09:21:00.001-05:00

Holiday Valley Tubing Park and Mountain Coaster set to open this week. Enchanted Mountains of Cattaraugus County, New York ... Naturally yours

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Lake Erie Wine Trail

2011-12-21T17:29:00.001-05:00

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Lake-Erie-Wine-Country-Holidays---Ticketing-Info.html?soid=1103731747655&aid=l0Ww2AuOsrc

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Short on real estate down payment? Use your IRA

2011-12-14T09:33:00.000-05:00

Real Estate Tax Talk

By Stephen Fishman
Inman News™

CORRECTION: The original version of this column contained an error that has been corrected. For the purposes of individual retirement accounts, individuals are considered first-time homebuyers if the individual or the individual's spouse did not own a principal residence at any time during the previous two years.

With the much stricter loan qualification standards in effect today compared to times past, borrowers are often required to put down at least 20 percent of the purchase price to obtain a home loan. There are lots of people who would like to purchase a home in these times of low interest rates but can't come up with the down payment.

Fortunately, first-time homebuyers who have IRAs (individual retirement accounts) may have more money available for a down payment than they realize. Ordinarily, the money in an IRA can't be withdrawn before age 59.5 without incurring a 10 percent income tax penalty.

However, there is a special exemption for first-time homebuyers. They can withdraw up to $10,000 in IRA funds to purchase a first home without paying the penalty. A married couple can each withdraw $10,000, giving a total of $20,000.

Are taxes due on the withdrawal?

Whenever money is withdrawn from a traditional IRA, it must be reported as income and regular income tax paid on it. This applies to withdrawals for buying a first home. However, this rule does not apply to Roth IRAs.

Like traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs are tax deferred. Unlike traditional IRAs, however, contributions to Roth IRAs are not tax deductible. Instead, withdrawals are tax free after age 59.5.

So long as the Roth IRA has been in existence for at least five years, withdrawals up to $10,000 for a first-time home purchase are completely tax free -- neither income tax nor a penalty tax need be paid.

However, if the Roth IRA is less than 5 years old, income taxes may have to be paid on the withdrawal, but no penalty tax.

Who is a first-time homebuyer?

The good news is that a person can qualify as a first-time homebuyer for these purposes even if he or she has owned homes in the past. For IRA purposes, you're a first-time homebuyer so long as you, or your spouse, did not own a principal residence at any time during the previous two years.

The two years are measured from the time the new home is acquired. This is the date a binding sales contract is signed or building or rebuilding has begun.

What can the money be used for?

The IRA withdrawal can be used to help pay for any costs involved in buying, building, or rebuilding a home. It may also be used for reasonable settlement, financing, or other closing costs.

Moreover, the money can be given to a child, grandchild, parent, or other ancestor to buy a first home so long as that individual qualifies under the rules.

The money must be used to pay these costs within 120 days after it is withdrawn from the IRA account. If the home purchase is canceled or delayed, no taxes will be due so long as the money is put back into the account within 120 days of its withdrawal.

Stephen Fishman is a tax expert, attorney and author who has published 18 books, including "Working for Yourself: Law & Taxes for Contractors, Freelancers and Consultants," "Deduct It," "Working as an Independent Contractor," and "Working with Independent Contractors." He welcomes your questions for this weekly column.

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Snowmobile safety class for youth planned

2011-12-09T08:28:00.000-05:00

Snowmobile safety class for youth planned - ObserverToday.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Dunkirk The Observer

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

‘Dramatic reduction’ for snowmobile patrols

2011-11-28T08:30:00.000-05:00

‘Dramatic reduction’ for snowmobile patrols - ObserverToday.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Dunkirk The Observer

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

2012 REALTOR officers installed

2011-11-26T09:38:00.000-05:00

2012 REALTOR officers installed - ObserverToday.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Dunkirk The Observer

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & and Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Peek'n Peak prepares for winter

2011-11-19T16:39:00.000-05:00

By: Mark Goshgarian

With the snowflakes falling, a Chautauqua County ski resort is prepping for the winter season. YNN's Mark Goshgarian sat down with the new owner of Peek'n Peak for a preview of what's to come.

"Not only was the lake the warmest it’s been in years, but the forecasters are saying there's going to be a lot of snow, so with those two in combination we feel like it’s going to be a great season,” said Nick Scott Jr.

Scott Enterprises Vice President and owner Nick Scott Jr., predicting a great winter at Peek'n Peak Resort and Spa in Findley Lake. The family owned hospitality business in Erie, Pennsylvania, purchased the financially troubled resort in August. Since then, it has already lowered the prices on its season passes and recently purchased a brand new snow groomer.

"It'll allow us to build new and improved terrain parks for our snow boarders, we're also enhancing the terrain parks for the snowboarders this year,” said Scott.

As part of its overall enhancement plan, the company is looking to hire about 500 employees, many seasonal, and spend more than four million dollars in renovations and upgrades over the next year. Crews are already repairing roofs and making improvements to the Peek's lodging facilities as well.

"We've started designing the interiors of the room and we're getting ready for that renovation. Room renovation is going to be about a million six and so we've started looking at plans for that,” said Scott.

Plans also include packaging the Peek with one of Scott Enterprise's many other ventures, like Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park in nearby Erie that features a brand new 12,000 square foot wave pool.

Scott said, "And so the nice thing is a family can come, enjoy Splash Lagoon in the evening, get up in the morning and go skiing for the day, come back and enjoy Splash Lagoon some more."

Still too early to mark on your calendar when the ski season will begin, the weather will determine when the resort opens for the winter, meantime for updates, you can log on to the Peek's website at http://www.pknpk.com/

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Chautauqua Lake Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Cockaigne Ski Area Looks For Buyer

2011-11-13T12:17:00.001-05:00

Cockaigne Ski Area Looks For Buyer TransWorld Business

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

NY Most Visited Ski Resort

2011-11-09T18:47:00.001-05:00

November 08, 2011

Original PRWeb article: New York's Most Visited Ski Resort Village - Ellicottville, NY...

New Retail Incentive Program Offers Free Lift Tickets, Gives Back to Charity and Provides Unique Slope-Side Demo Opportunity

Ellicottville, (PRWEB) November 08, 2011

It's more than the ski slopes that are being groomed for another exhilarating season in Ellicottville, NY. Skiers and boarders are too.

Six locally owned and operated ski and board shops - all within walking distance in a town ranked one of the top five ski and outdoor destinations in the east - are sealing Ellicottville's top spot as a place to shop for gear and clothing with the launch of a new retail program and a chance to purchase some of the best in snow sport apparel and equipment at the best prices, straight from the pros themselves.

"Anyone familiar with Ellicottville knows that this is a great place to ski or board, with more than 100 runs right at our doorstep," says Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Brian McFadden. "What they might not know is that we're also home to some of the best ski and board shops around, including stores that are nationally recognized and Gold Medal rated by Ski Magazine."

This season, Ellicottville's 'Sensational Six' stores are offering a range of perks and incentives for savvy ski and snowboard enthusiasts, from amateurs to seasoned pros. Details include:
Free Lift Ticket at Holiday Valley or HoliMont (weekday only for HoliMont) for anyone spending $500 or more at any one of the participating shops

10% Off Ski or Board Jackets in return for clean and gently used jackets (At participating shops only; used jackets will be donated to local families in need)

Free Demo Day at Holiday Valley - Dec. 17 - A slope-side opportunity to 'try before you buy' with all major brands represented

Not only do Ellicottville shops represent every top brand of snow sport equipment and apparel, but they're also nestled in a fun little village at the base of the ski hills that makes shopping for gear more of a vacation than a chore on a to-do list, adds McFadden.

"Our shops aren't spread out over a major metropolis or situated in an expansive supermall; they're right in our historic downtown tucked next to a variety of other boutiques, restaurants and of course our legendary nightlife, so shoppers can immerse themselves in the whole snow sport experience," says McFadden. "I don't know of any other destination in the east where you will find so many award-winning shops, so many products and styles to choose from and so much expertise, all clustered together."

Price and value also come into play, especially when comparing prices to retail establishments north of the border in Canada. "Anyone who does their homework and compares the exact brand north and south of the border will be shocked by how much you can save when you buy stateside," says McFadden.

MORE ON ELLICOTTVILLE'S 'SENSATIONAL SIX'
Ellicottville's 'Sensational Six' stores: The City Garage, Dekdebruns, Mud Sweat and Gears, The Red Door, Apres and The Boardroom. They can all be found on Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce's website, http://www.ellicottvilleny.com, where visitors will also find recently completed videos on Ellicottville as a snow sport destination as well as video 'shorts' on each of the shops involved in this new promotion.

For more information about Ellicottville, on everything from ski and snowboard getaways (including great mid-week packages) to exploring the town's numerous shops, restaurants and night spots, go to the website or call 800-349-9099. Ellicottville is conveniently located in Western New York - just south of Buffalo, surrounded by the Enchanted Mountains, with Allegheny State Park at its doorstep.

For the original version on PRWeb visit: http://www.prweb.com/releases/prweb2011/11/prweb8915977.htm

December deadline for Chautauqua Institution’s annual literary prize

2011-11-09T10:30:00.000-05:00

December deadline for Chautauqua Institution’s annual literary prize - ObserverToday.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Dunkirk The Observer

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Holiday Valley Awaits Ski Season with Beer and Wine Festival

2011-11-06T15:29:00.000-05:00

Holiday Valley Awaits Ski Season with Beer and Wine Festival

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

$4M renovation planned for Peek'n Peak

2011-11-03T15:51:00.000-04:00

$4M renovation planned for Peek'n Peak will receive a $4 million facelift.

Business First

Date: Thursday, November 3, 2011, 7:24am EDT

Peek'n Peak Resort & Spa

The new owners of the Chautauqua County resort plan to renovate its hotel and purchase new equipment for its ski hills, according to the Jamestown Post-Journal.

Also included in the plans are a new phone network and a new reservation system.

Peek'n Peak was purchased by Scott Enterprises for $11.3 million in August through U.S. Bankruptcy Court proceedings. The 1,150-acre resort employs more than 1,000 in the winter and 350 in the summer.

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Senecas announce $66k sponsorship for new snowmobile trail near casino

2011-11-01T08:57:00.000-04:00

Senecas announce $66k sponsorship for new snowmobile trail near casino - The Salamanca Press: News - Senecas announce $66k sponsorship for new snowmobile trail near casino: News: When the snow begins to fly, commuters will have a new way of
getting to the Seneca Allegany Hotel and Casino this winter, as
members of the S…

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Seminar on aiding homeowners in challenging tax assessments

2011-10-31T08:39:00.000-04:00

Seminar on aiding homeowners in challenging tax assessments - ObserverToday.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Dunkirk The Observer

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

November in Chautauqua County

2011-10-27T16:25:00.002-04:00

Upcoming Events...

November 12 - 20 -2012 United States Figure Skating Eastern Sectional Championships, Jamestown Savings Bank Ice Arnea, Jamestown.

November 19 -Thanksgiving with the Birds, Jamestown Audubon Center

November 23, - January 14, 2012 - Annual Holiday Exhibit, Fenton History Center, Jamestown

December 2 - Christmas Parade, Third Street, Jamestown

December 3 - Homemade Holidays, Jamestown Audubon Center

December 3 - Miracle on Main Street, Fredonia

January 15, 2012 - Currier and Ives Sleigh Rally, Chautauqua Institution

Ski season looks bright at recently bought Peek'n Peak

2011-10-24T11:37:00.000-04:00

The coming ski season is looking bright -- and white -- thanks to the sale of a financially struggling regional resort and the reopening of another.

Western New York's Peek'n Peak Resort and Spa, operating in bankruptcy for the past year, was recently purchased by the Erie, Pa., family that owns the nearby Splash Lagoon Indoor Waterpark.

"It's a fantastic resort," said new owner Nick Scott Jr., vice president of Scott Enterprises, which also owns a dozen hotels and restaurants in Erie. "It just needs a little TLC."

The Clear Fork Ski Resort near Mansfield, closed since 2006, was purchased this year by four Richland County men, who plan to reopen the 191-acre park in December.

Though the resort has appealed to skiers and snowboarders primarily from the Columbus area, marketing manager Heidi Flynn said, "We're hoping to bring people here from all over Ohio."

Regional skiing info

Peek’n Peak Resort and Spa in Findley Lake, N.Y.: 716-355-4141. Clear Fork Resort in Butler, Ohio: 419-883-2000. More ski information: The 2011 Cleveland Winter Sports Show is next weekend at Lakefront Arena, 5310 Hauserman Road, Parma. The event — which will feature information from dozens of resorts, plus sporting goods outfitters and more — runs 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 30. Admission is $5; free, children 12 and younger. For information: jjgadventures.com or 216-496-4685.

Changes at the Peak

Peek'n Peak, 90 minutes east of Cleveland and a favorite destination for Northeast Ohio skiers, was purchased in 2006 by Chardon real estate developer Paul Kiebler, who never was able to fund his grand plans for the resort. In 2010, he filed for bankruptcy, citing $28 million in debt.

The property was auctioned in August, when the Scott family emerged as high bidders, paying $11.3 million for the resort and its 1,150 acres.

Top priority for the new owners: fixing the roof and making other improvements to the Inn at the Peak, the 107-room hotel; adding new grooming and rental equipment; and upgrading the sewer and water systems.

Longer term, Scott said, he hopes to add more four-season attractions to the resort, including a zipline course, mountain biking trails and more.

In the meantime, Peek'n Peak has lowered the price of its season passes (hurry -- the deal is good only through October) and has already begun creating links between the resort and Splash Lagoon, which is about 20 miles west of Findley Lake.

Despite the bankruptcy, Scott said Peek'n Peak had a good year last year, drawing 225,000 skiers. "It's been a very special place for a lot of people," said Scott, who himself learned to ski there.

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate and Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Lake Erie Wine Country to host Harvest Wine Weekends

2011-10-23T14:59:00.000-04:00

Lake Erie Wine Country to host Harvest Wine Weekends - ObserverToday.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Dunkirk The Observer

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Chautauqualakehomes.com October 2011

2011-10-15T09:44:00.001-04:00

Chautauqualakehomes.com October 2011, a photo by rickandjuliarealtors on Flickr.

New Peak Owners Expand Regional Base

2011-10-14T14:36:00.000-04:00

New Peak Owners Expand Regional Base - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Free Skiing at Holiday Valley

2011-10-11T10:51:00.001-04:00

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Free-Skiing-at-Holiday-Valley---Put-more-Holiday-in-your-Holiday-Party.html?soid=1011053813887&aid=NKdmkkScvpI

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Fall Festival

2011-10-08T15:33:00.003-04:00

Gorgeous weekend perfect for Fall Fest: wivb.com

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Club To Hold Car Show At Peek’n Peak On Sunday

2011-10-07T16:34:00.000-04:00

Club To Hold Car Show At Peek’n Peak On Sunday - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

Ellicottville's Fall Festival set for this weekend - The Salamanca Press: News - Ellicottville's Fall Festival set for this weekend: News

2011-10-06T13:52:00.001-04:00

Ellicottville's Fall Festival set for this weekend - The Salamanca Press: News - Ellicottville's Fall Festival set for this weekend: News: ELLICOTTVILLE - As the surrounding hills glow in brilliant
color, Ellicottville once again hosts its ever popular Fall
Festival.

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Holiday Valley's Mountain Coaster

2011-10-02T12:10:00.001-04:00

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rickandjuliarealtors has shared a video with you on YouTube: Holiday Valley's Mountain Coaster The Mountain Coaster is located at Holiday Valley Resort in the Tannenbaum area next to the Aerial Adventure Park. The Mountain Coaster is similar to a roller coaster with cars that ride upon a track. One or two riders load a car and travel 1,865 feet up the hill parallel to the Spruce Lake lift. At the apex the car begins its thrilling 2,490 foot descent zigzagging and spiraling down through the woods. There are 15 curves, 12 waves, 2 jumps and a giant spiral along the length of the ride. The average grade is 15.2% with a maximum of 23.6%. Riders can accelerate or decelerate using handles on the sides of the car. "Recommencer" by DoKashiteru (feat. ditto ditto, Grayson Wray) http://ccmixter.org/files/DoKashiteru/20513
© 2011 YouTube, LLC 901 Cherry Ave, San Bruno, CA 94066

Autumn in Chautauqua County

2011-09-29T16:56:00.000-04:00

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Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau Autumn 2011

Taste the Harvest...

Bring home local produce from area farm stands and Farmers' Markets that stay open into October.

The Busti Cider Mill & Farm Market operates mid-September through November with group tours of the working cider mill.

Call for an appointment 716-487-0177 or 716-484-7300. Busti Cider Mill & Farm Market is located at 1135 Southwestern Drive, Jamestown.

Downtown Jamestown Farmers Market

Every Friday 10am - 3pm through October 28th. Weekly farmers market offering locally grown produce, fresh flowers and herbs, goat milk fudge, fresh-frozen meats, pumpkins, maple products, jams and jellies, homemade baked goods, eggs and more!

119 - 121 West Third Street, Jamestown 716-664-2477

Open for business!

Stop at Lake Erie Wine Country's newest member, 21 Brix Winery, located on Route 20 between Brocton and Westfield. Try some of their delicious wines, including a Cherry Wine, Noiret Ice Wine, Cabernet Sauvignon, Noiret, Chardonnay, and Riesling as well as three house blends. The retail area offers a wide variety of merchandise, including seasoning packets and chocolate. The Tasting room is open 10 AM to 6 PM, 7 days per week.

Upcoming Events...

October 1 & 8 - Saints and Sinner Cemetery Tours, Lakeview Cemetery, Jamestown

October 2 & 9 - Twilight Mausoleum Tours, Lakeview Cemetery, Jamestown

October 8 - Chili Cook-off, Crossroads Market, Westfield

October 8 - Laughter is the Best Medicine, Benefit for Centaur Stride, Dunkirk

October 8-9 & 15-16 - Peek'n Peak Fall Festival, Findley Lake

October 14 - Derek St. Holmes, & The Queen City All Stars, Jamestown Savings Bank Ice Arena, Jamestown.

October 14-15 - Harvest Moon Cemetery Tours, Fredonia

November 4-6 & 11-13- Harvest Wine Weekends, Lake Erie Wine Country

November 5-6 - Christmas Through the Village, Findley Lake

November 12 - Open Studio Tour, Chautauqua Lake Erie Art Trail

November 12 - 20 -2012 United States Figure Skating Eastern Sectional Championships, Jamestown Savings Bank Ice Arnea, Jamestown.

Ahhh Fall...the aroma of grapes ready for harvest, the brilliance of changing leaves, and the welcome of community festivals and celebrations. What a perfect season to be in Chautauqua County.

Fall at the Peek...

Peek'n Peak Resort and Spa Fall Fest

- Celebrate the turning of the leaves at the 24th annual Fall Fest October 8 & 9 and October 15 & 16 from 10am - 5pm. Enjoy family fun with a handmade craft show, pumpkin cannon, ski lift rides, farmer's market, and more. Purchase your snow season pass during Fall Fest at the lowest rates in years. Visit Peek'n Peak for season pass pricing and full event details.

Sip, swirl, savor the wine...

Harvest Wine Weekends

November 4-6 and 11-13

Celebrate the fall harvest in Lake Erie Wine Country
over two weekends in November, just in time to collect recipe ideas for the holidays. Sample bounteous autumn fare paired with inspired wine choices. Purchase a ticket and set your own itinerary, visiting any of 21 wineries over two days. Receive an event wine glass, gift, and a $5 voucher to spend on wine at any winery or on food at participating restaurants. All tickets are reserved.

Laugh with Lucy...

Come and celebrate the 60th anniversary of I Love Lucy. The show that made TV history first aired October 8, 1951, and this fall, the Lucy-Desi Center for Comedy and Desilu Playhouse, a museum dedicated to the show, will host special exhibits to commemorate the event. See the door to the now legendary Studio A from CBS Columbia Square in Hollywood. Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz walked through this door to shoot the first episode of I Love Lucy. Other special commemorative exhibits include: The Santa suit worn in the "missing" Christmas episode of I Love Lucy, which aired in 1956 but was the only episode not aired in syndication. The Playhouse also features a tribute to I Love Lucy writer Madelyn Pugh Davis, who passed away this year.

Ghostly tours...

On October 14-15 the historic cemetery in Fredonia, NY comes alive with ghosts of famous, infamous, and villainous residents during Festivals Fredonia's Harvest Moon Cemetery Tours led by ghostly guides in horse-drawn trolleys. In Jamestown, learn some of the more than 43,000 personal stories of "Saints and Sinners" in Lakeview Cemetery with tours led by members of the Fenton History Center on October 1st and 8th. Twilight Mausoleum Tours take place October 2nd and 9th. Reservations are required for all cemetery tours.

Visit Festivals Fredonia and Fenton History Center for more information.

Hockey anyone...
Jamestown's brand new North American Hockey Team, The Ironmen, start their first season at the Jamestown Savings Bank Ice Arena Oct 7 at 7:05pm when The Ironmen take on Port Huron Fighting Falcons. Visit Jamestown Savings Bank Arena for tickets or call the Arena Box Office at 716-484-2624.

See the full calendar of events for Chautauqua County

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May 25 - June 17, 2012

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Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau | P. O. Box 1441 | Chautauqua | NY | 14722

Visit Chautauqua County.mov

2011-09-22T08:42:00.002-04:00

http://youtu.be/s9rrlqj3FNo?hd=1

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate and Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Plans Continue For Busti Apple Festival

2011-09-19T10:20:00.000-04:00

Plans Continue For Busti Apple Festival - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

1891 Fredonia Opera House To Screen ‘A Little Help’

2011-09-18T15:47:00.001-04:00

1891 Fredonia Opera House To Screen ‘A Little Help’ - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Officials promote welfare-to-work program to clean Chautauqua Lake

2011-09-03T06:52:00.000-04:00

Officials promote welfare-to-work program to clean Chautauqua Lake - ObserverToday.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Dunkirk The Observer

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

Erie's Nick Scott to buy Peek'n Peak

2011-08-24T16:10:00.000-04:00

Nick Scott, who owns Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park in Erie is purchasing the Peek for $11.3 Million.
For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Several Bids Made For Peak

2011-08-17T11:32:00.000-04:00

Several Bids Made For Peak - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Blood, Sweat And Tears, Arturo Sandoval Top Week Eight

2011-08-14T13:23:00.001-04:00

Blood, Sweat And Tears, Arturo Sandoval Top Week Eight - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Mountain Coster Opening at Holiday Valley on August 20

2011-08-13T15:47:00.000-04:00

Mountain Coster Opening at Holiday Valley on August 20

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

History Comes Alive

2011-08-13T08:36:00.000-04:00

History Comes Alive - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

Holiday Valley To Host International Bowhunting World Championships

2011-08-09T07:35:00.000-04:00

Holiday Valley To Host International Bowhunting World Championships - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

Chautauqua Art In The Park Is Open To Region

2011-08-05T16:31:00.000-04:00

Chautauqua Art In The Park Is Open To Region - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Sale of Peek'n Peak to occur by Aug. 25

2011-08-02T15:05:00.000-04:00

By ED PALATTELLA, Erie Times-News
ed.palattella@timesnews.com

One of the most important dates in the 47-year history of Peek'n Peak Resort & Spa arrives on Aug. 25.

A bankruptcy judge in Cleveland on that date is scheduled to approve the sale of the 1,150-acre ski and golf complex, near Findley Lake, N.Y.

How that sale will occur remains undecided.

The Peak's main creditor and bankruptcy trustee could pick the buyer, based on a review of bids, on Aug. 22.

Or the trustee and the creditor, Huntington National Bank, could arrange to sell the Peak at an auction on Aug. 24.

Either way, the sale will not become final until a judge in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Cleveland approves it on Aug. 25.

The court has set no minimum bid, though Huntington National Bank is owed $17 million, including fees and costs.

The Peak is not expected to fetch that high of an offer. Huntington agreed it would receive no more than $13.1 million from the sale, indicating the bank already expects to lose millions of dollars on its investment, according to court records.

The sale will bring a sense of certainty to the Peak, whose owner, Kiebler Recreation LLC, of Chardon, Ohio, outside Cleveland, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in May 2010.

Kiebler's owner, real estate developer Paul E. Kiebler IV, failed to come up with a reorganization plan, which would have let his company pay its debts and retain ownership.

U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Randolph Baxter in June appointed a trustee to run the Peak and prepare it for a sale. Baxter on Thursday approved the bidding procedures.

The Peak remains in business, with about 300 employees during golf season and about 1,000 during ski season. The new owner is not obligated to keep those employees, according to the proposed sale agreement, though the agreement also states that the "buyer intends to hire many of the affected employees as new hires."

The Peak's trustee, David O. Simon, a veteran bankruptcy lawyer in Cleveland, said he expects the Peak to draw a large number of prospective buyers, who have until Aug. 12 to submit sealed bids to him.

"We've had a tremendous amount of activity from prospective serious buyers," Simon said on Monday.

The new owner will inherit a regional attraction that, according to court records, can be profitable if it is not carrying large debts. Kiebler Recreation's debts became unmanageable as it borrowed to pay for the purchase and to expand the resort's condominiums.

Kiebler Recreation bought the Peak in January 2006 from the Cross family, of Waterford. Brothers Eugene and Norbert Cross, both now deceased, bought the Peak in 1988.

Kiebler Recreation owes the Crosses $8.4 million, and the family is likely to recover only a fraction of that amount, if anything, however the Peak is sold, according to court records.

ED PALATTELLA can be reached at 870-1813 or by e-mail.

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate or Living visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Two top lake experts to speak on Chautauqua shoreline

2011-08-01T09:49:00.000-04:00

Two top lake experts to speak on Chautauqua shoreline - ObserverToday.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Dunkirk The Observer

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Buyers Interested in Peek'n Peak

2011-07-30T14:07:00.000-04:00

Buyers Interested in Peek'n Peak - WICU12/WSEE Erie, PA News, Sports, Weather and Events

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

How Long Will You Live?

2011-07-28T13:20:00.000-04:00

Try this Fun Exercise: Take a minute and see how long you will live it may help you decide if should take out a 15, 30 year mortgage or pay all cash (<:

http://media.nmfn.com/tnetwork/lifespan

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Rifle Bill passes in? Chautauqua County

2011-07-28T09:34:00.000-04:00

Rifle Bill passes in?Chautauqua County - ObserverToday.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Dunkirk The Observer

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit:
www.chautauqualakehomes.com

Chautauqua County Fair Starts Today

2011-07-25T06:13:00.000-04:00

Fair Starts Today - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

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2381 Canal Road, Ashville, NY $124,900

2011-07-23T15:06:00.000-04:00

2381 Canal Road, Ashville, NY Powered by Postlets

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

376 Marvin Parkway, Jamestown, NY | Powered by Postlets

2011-07-23T15:03:00.000-04:00

376 Marvin Parkway, Jamestown, NY Powered by Postlets

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Leif Ericson Viking Ship Arrives on Chautauqua Lake

2011-07-15T15:46:00.000-04:00

Leif Ericson Viking Ship Arrives - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

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2370 West Lake Road, Ashville, NY Canal Front

2011-07-09T17:14:00.001-04:00

2370 West Lake Road, Ashville, NY Powered by Postlets

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Viking Ship to Sail the Waters of Chautauqua Lake

2011-06-29T15:35:00.000-04:00

June 29, 2011 Updated Jun 29, 2011 at 12:26 PM EDT

Jamestown, N.Y. (WKBW release) -- The Vikings are coming! The Vikings are coming!

Centuries ago, such a statement would have been viewed as an ominous warning of impending doom to coastal towns and villages throughout western Europe. Today, however, it should be met with great enthusiasm, as anyone wanting to catch a glimpse of a replica Viking ship will have the chance to do so on July 14 when The Norseman sails the waters of Chautauqua Lake.

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The event is being held to help promote the 2011 Scandinavian Folk Festival, taking place July 15 – 17 at the Gerry Rodeo Grounds, located just 10 minutes north of Jamestown.

The Norseman is a ship owned by The Leif Ericson Viking Ship, Inc. – a not-for-profit education group from Philadelphia aimed at raising awareness of Leif Ericson and the Viking's role in world history. It is a 40 foot-long replica and has a mast that rises 24.5 feet above the waterline. The sail is 17 feet by 17.5 feet. The vessel also features a figurehead, representing a sea serpent that was hand-carved by artist and sculptor Marty Martinson. The shields on the side represent the countries of Canada, Denmark, Finland, Greenland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. It is rated for a maximum crew of 20 people.

The Norseman's tentative schedule is to embark from Chautauqua Lake's Long Point State Park on the morning of July 14 and sail to Bemus Point. From there it is on to the historic Chautauqua Institution, before returning back to Long Point. The ability to sail is dependent on the weather.

Not only will local residents and summer visitors have an opportunity to see this unique vessel in action, but one local person will also get to ride on the boat with a guest. Festival organizers are holding a drawing where one lucky winner will receive two boarding passes to complete the sail. Tickets for the drawing can be obtained for $12. In addition to being entered into the drawing, anyone who buys a ticket will also receive a weekend pass to the Festival (also valued at $12). Tickets may be purchased at Ecklof Bakery, Peterson Farm or the Reg Lenna Box Office. The drawing will take place on July 10.

The tenth annual Scandinavian Folk Festival will be celebrated July 15-17, 2011 at the Gerry Rodeo Grounds on Rt. 60 in Gerry, N.Y. There, The Norseman will be docked as part of the Viking Village theme area. Vikings will be reenacting many aspects of daily life including ancient Viking competitive sports. A Viking Kubb tournament will be held on July 16.

The Festival will also celebrate our Scandinavian culture with traditional and contemporary Scandinavian music and folk dancing in the entertainment tent, the shops in the market tent, presentations in the lecture tent, craft demonstrations along with a child and family center in the culture tent and, of course, Swedish meatball, pancakes and korv dinners.

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

By WKBW News

CWC Adds Two Conservationists

2011-06-29T10:59:00.000-04:00

CWC Adds Two Conservationists - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Peek'n Peak trustee: Resort is 'healthy'

2011-06-25T15:24:00.000-04:00

By ED PALATTELLA, Erie Times-News
ed.palattella@timesnews.com

Eighteen years ago, David O. Simon learned how to ski at Peek'n Peak Resort and Spa, near Findley Lake, N.Y.

This week, Simon, a veteran bankruptcy lawyer in Cleveland, started preparing the Peak for a sale in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Cleveland in September.

Just as he has enjoyed the Peak as a skier, Simon said he has good feelings about the future of the ski and golf complex, whose Cleveland-area parent company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy 13 months ago.

"It is a healthy resort," Simon said. "The place has a heartbeat, a strong heartbeat. It needs the right kind of operator to give it some tender loving care and to bring it back."

As trustee, Simon is overseeing the Peak and arranging for its sale at a public auction, which he said he wants to occur by the end of September. Proceeds from the sale will go to the Peak's creditors, none of which is expected to recover all its losses.

U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Randolph Baxter, seated in Cleveland, on Monday approved the trustee appointment of Simon, 61, a lawyer for 37 years. Simon assumes oversight of the operations of the Peak from Paul E. Kiebler IV, a real estate developer from Chardon, Ohio, east of Cleveland.

Kiebler had controlled the resort as the owner of Kiebler Recreation LLC, which bought the Peak from the Cross family, of Waterford, in January 2006.

Kiebler Recreation filed for Chapter 11 protection in May 2010, declaring debts of $28 million. That includes what is now more than $17 million owed to Huntington National Bank, Kiebler Recreation's main mortgage holder and the primary secured creditor for the Peak's property.

Huntington and the other creditors earlier this month petitioned for the appointment of a trustee, claiming that Paul Kiebler was mismanaging the Peak. They also said he failed to come up with a Chapter 11 plan for Kiebler Recreation to reorganize, settle its debts and retain ownership of the Peak.

Simon, who is regularly appointed a bankruptcy trustee, visited the Peak on Saturday and will work out of his office in Cleveland, where he runs his law practice. His trusteeship fees will come out of the bankruptcy estate of Kiebler Recreation.

The Peak remains in business, with its president, Robert Swenson, and about 300 employees on the job. The Peak's workforce grows to about 1,000 in winter.

"My function is essentially the same as upper management," Simon said. "I oversee the operation of the resort and anything related to it."

Kiebler Recreation fell into unmanageable debt as it borrowed to buy the Peak and expand the condominiums on the 1,150-acre resort, which opened in 1964.

Since it filed for bankruptcy, the Peak has recorded $16 million in sales and other revenue but lost $2.7 million after paying operating expenses and professional fees related to the bankruptcy, according to court records.

"I think it perhaps tried to grow too big, too fast, which created a capital shortage," Simon said of the Peak. "That is not uncommon. We see that all the time."

He said a "healthy" number of prospective buyers have contacted him, though the list is confidential at this stage.

A new owner, Simon said, will need to infuse the Peak with cash but should also have the advantage of carrying a reasonable debt load.

Baxter set a Sept. 1 deadline for the sale of the Peak. Simon said he now expects the sale to occur by Sept. 30.

"We recognize the seasonal nature of the resort," Simon said. "The timing of the sale is optimal between golf season and ski season. We don't want to do it in the middle of either season."

ED PALATTELLA can be reached at 870-1813 or by e-mail.

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Chautauqua Lake 14th Annual Antique & Classic Boat Show

2011-06-24T10:02:00.002-04:00

Show Information

Chautauqua Lake Twin Tier Chapter, ACBS Inc.
Bemus Point Casino Docks & Village Park

July 8 & 9 2011

14th Annual Antique & Classic Boat Show

Motels/Hotels:

Lenhart Hotel 20 Lakeside Dr. Bemus Pt. 716.386.2715
Chautauqua Suites 215 W. Lake Rd Mayville 716.269.7829
Webb's 115 W. Lake Rd. Mayville 716.753.2161
Best Western 200 3
Hampton Inn 4 W. Oak Hill Rd Jamestown 716.484.7829
Comfort Inn 2800 N Main St Ext Jamestown 716.664.5920
Radisson 150 4
Athenaeum Hotel Chautauqua Institution 716.357.4444
3rd St. Jamestown 716.484.8400 th St. Jamestown 716.664.3400

Bed & Breakfasts:

The Inn at Pheasant Run Bemus Pt. 716.386.4174
Country House Bemus Pt. 716.386.3182
Morning Glory Bemus Pt. 716.386.5938
Plumbush Chautauqua 716.789.5309

Activities:

Bemus Point Ferry Bemus Pt. 185 year-old car ferry to Stow
Chautauqua Belle Mayville Steam paddle wheel boat tour on the Lake
Summer Wind Celoron Park Sightseeing boat tour on the Lake
Chautauqua Institution http://www.ciweb.org/ Arts Festival (Sat & Sun)
Lucy-Desi Museum http://www.lucy-desi.com/
Wine Tours http://www.chautauquawinetrail.com/
Visit out Chapter Web-site: http://www.cltt-acbs.org/
Visit the Chautauqua County site: http://www.tourchautauqua.org/

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Our show location will be in the historic Village of Bemus Point, at the Bemus Point Casino Docks and adjacent Village Park. Bemus Point is located off NY Interstate 86, Exit # 9. Turn left onto Route 430 and proceed one mile to the stop sign; then left onto Lakeside Dr.; The Village Park and Casino are one quarter mile on your left.

Allison Krause at The Chautauqua Institution July 29

2011-06-23T16:52:00.002-04:00

Tickets are sold out at the CI Box Office but are available at: The SUMMER WIND

http://www.thesummerwind.com/boat.asp

Lucille Ball Memorial Park

P.O. Box 514

Celoron, NY 14720

Phone: (716) 763-SHIP (7447) - Fax: (716) 664-4944

email: marilyn@thesummerwind.com

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

CLA Continues Pledge To Keep Lake Beautiful

2011-06-15T16:23:00.000-04:00

CLA Continues Pledge To Keep Lake Beautiful - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Chautauqua Lake Returning To Normal Seasonal Levels

2011-06-13T07:23:00.001-04:00

Lake Returning To Normal Seasonal Levels - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Lake Groups Need More Money

2011-06-09T07:33:00.000-04:00

Lake Groups Need More Money - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Chautauqua Marina Site Of Fishing, Boating Week Events

2011-06-09T07:24:00.000-04:00

Chautauqua Marina Site Of Fishing, Boating Week Events - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Housing Shortage Is Likely Coming, Report Says

2011-06-09T07:21:00.000-04:00

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Housing Shortage Is Likely Coming, Report Says

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

Chautauqua County Summer Begins

2011-06-02T14:52:00.000-04:00

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Summer-Begins-in-June-Chautauqua-County-E-news.html?soid=1102660329276&aid=eLKb8_OxerU

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

Time For Emergency Work

2011-06-02T05:50:00.000-04:00

Time For Emergency Work - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Peak To Be Sold

2011-05-25T19:14:00.000-04:00

Peak To Be Sold - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Boaters Beware

2011-05-25T06:55:00.001-04:00

Boaters Beware - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Sky-High-Opens-at-Holiday-Valley

2011-05-18T08:49:00.001-04:00

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Sky-High-Opens-at-Holiday-Valley.html?soid=1011053813887&aid=DP8GtHdPfnY

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

A New High-Altitude Adventure

2011-05-15T13:32:00.000-04:00

A new high-altitude adventure - Olean Times Herald: News - A new high-altitude adventure: News: "ELLICOTTVILLE — The snow is gone and the snow shovels are in
storage, but work at Holiday Valley hasn’t stopped."

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

For Sale: 4BR/2BA Single Family House in Mayville, NY, $574,900

2011-05-13T13:07:00.000-04:00

For Sale: 4BR/2BA Single Family House in Mayville, NY, $574,900

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

For Sale: 4BR/3+1BA Single Family House in Falconer, NY, $294,900

2011-05-13T13:03:00.000-04:00

For Sale: 4BR/3+1BA Single Family House in Falconer, NY, $294,900

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

Boating Business To Open In Celoron

2011-05-01T11:11:00.000-04:00

Boating Business To Open In Celoron - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

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Bemus Point Seasonal Laborer

2011-04-30T13:52:00.000-04:00

Job Title

Seasonal Laborer

Source

Village of Bemus Point

Location

Bemus Point, NY 14712

Date Posted

4/30/2011

Job ID

202682-541458

Job Description

Seasonal Laborer

The Village of Bemus Point will be taking applications to hire a part-time seasonal laborer. Applicant must have valid NYS drivers license and be at least 21 years old. Applicant should have experience in the operation of lawn care equipment and be familiar with dump truck operation.

Applications may be obtained in person at:

13 Alburtus Ave.
Bemus Point, NY

Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri 8:30 am to 12:30 pm.

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

Top Condition

2011-04-30T07:44:00.000-04:00

Top Condition - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

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Summer Wind Set To Cruise Back Into Lake

2011-04-29T08:06:00.000-04:00

Summer Wind Set To Cruise Back Into Lake - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

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Auction Service Holds Grand Opening

2011-04-24T08:22:00.002-04:00

Auction Service Holds Grand Opening - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Holiday Valley Upgrades, More Than New Park

2011-04-17T10:48:00.000-04:00

Posted by The Villager on April 14, 2011

Additions Include Automated Snowmaking, New Chairlift, Groomer and Clubhouse Chalet
By Eric Hund
Univ. of Pittsburgh at Bradford

Holiday Valley Resort will soon offer more warm weather activities as construction on their Sky High Adventure Park nears completion.
Jane Eshbaugh, Holiday Valley Resort marketing director, said they should complete work on the aerial adventure park in early May, and that the park should be open to the public by May 21.
The new park is the largest piece of a $5.4 million capital expansion project by the resort.
The park consists of a 4 acre tree top obstacle course comprised of over 100 platforms located within the tree canopy, connected by rope climbs and wooden bridges. The course tests participants' balance and climbing skills as well as their strategic ability of those attempting to complete the course.
Eshbaugh said there are eight different courses within the aerial adventure park divided into five different difficulty levels.
There are two courses each for the three easiest and intermediate levels and one course each for the more difficult and most difficult.
She said the aerial park would be open for the spring, summer and fall seasons.
Eshbaugh added that construction is underway for a Mountain Coaster near the Tannenbaum Lodge that would run uphill parallel to the Spruce Lake lift.
The two-person ride is similar to a roller coaster in that it is a car affixed to rails, but that is where the similarity ends. After reaching the summit, the car zigzags through the trees down the ravine towards the base, and contains controls so the passengers can control the cars speed.

"It is a thrilling ride as you go whipping through the trees," she said.
Eshbaugh said the mountain coaster is likely to be finished in July, and would remain open all year.
She said the goal of the Sky High Adventure Park is to attract more offseason tourists to the resort, as well as offering more incentives for conferences and groups seeking to use team-building exercises.
The new park will be open to the public. All participants must be able to perform specific physical requirements. The minimum age for use of the aerial park is seven. The Mountain Coaster has a minimum height requirement of 36 inches if riding with an adult or 42 inches if riding alone.
The resort will require participants to listen to a safety lecture and wear a special climbing harness featuring a double locking lanyard with a special latch system that only allows one end of the latch to open at a time thereby keeping participants connected to a safety line even when changing courses.
Eshbaugh said that other improvements for the resort are planned, including the installation of new pipeline and hydrants along the recently completed Bear Cub beginner slope.
The resort also plans to install new automated snowmaking on the Mardi Gras trail.
The automated system allows the resort to create snow more efficiently while using fewer resources.
A computer linked to two weather stations, one near the top and bottom respectively, controls the snowmaking machines, and allows the units to adjust for differences in temperature, humidity, wind and other various factors that can control snow quality along the slope.
Eshbaugh said this allows the resort to best utilize weather windows that are optimal for snowmaking.
Another upgrade is the planned replacement of the double chairlift at SnowPine Village with a quad chairlift.
In addition, the resort will purchase a Grooming Machine.
The groomer has a hydraulic tiller on the rear that resurfaces the ski slopes each night by grinding up the top layer of firm snow and laying down a soft corduroy surface. The machine also has a hydraulic blade on the front, which can be used either to smooth out humps, or to add moguls or shapes.
She said that plans are also underway to design and build a new Clubhouse Chalet.
"This process has taken several years to plan, and construction will most likely take place next spring," she said.
Timing will be critical, as the entire building must be complete by the start of the 2012-13 winter season.
The resort also plans to alter the course of the Holiday Valley Road, which currently runs straight between the Clubhouse and parking area, which currently forces people to cross the road to reach the ski slopes from the parking area.
The new route will redirect around the parking area, creating easier access for patrons.

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living: visit http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Mortgage Interest Deductions

2011-04-12T13:13:00.000-04:00

Daily Real Estate News For More Information On Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

Chautauqua County Greenway Plan Public Survey

2011-04-07T12:37:00.003-04:00

The Chautauqua County Department of Planning and Economic Development is creating a plan to develop greenways and trails as well as to preserve open spaces for recreation, enjoyment and eco-tourism based economic development within the county.

Greenways are: Linear corridors of open space designed for recreation, transportation or conservation purposes, or a combination of both. Examples include: Recreation & Transportation Greenways - Hiking trails, walking / bike paths, equestrian trails - Canoe / kayak trails - Snowmobile & ATV Trails Conservation Greenways - Conservation of agricultural and forestry resources - Conservation of rare, threatened or endangered species habitat - Conservation of sensitive natural resources April 2011 Towards the end of the survey, you may choose to participate in the planning process by giving you the opportunity to tell them:

Your opinion of how greenways and trails impact quality of life in Chautauqua County
Which existing greenways and trails you use
How frequently & why you use them
What is important to you in establishing and maintaining new / existing greenways, trails, and open spaces.

Your input on this survey will guide the recommendations being developed in the Chautauqua County Greenway Trails Planning effort.

Thank you for taking the time to participate!
Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and colleagues to participate by forwarding this email to them -- the more who complete the survey, the better!

Remember, your input will help to shape the future of Chautauqua County.
Click Here to Start the Survey

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Peek'n Peak Resort Next Stop for East Coast Snocross Series

2011-03-21T16:22:00.001-04:00

After a pair of off-weekends that saw some teams venture west to compete in national events, the time has come to get back at it here in the east.

With just two points races remaining, those in the hunt for class titles will be highly focused as East Coast Snocross (ECS) gets set for Round 8 on the 2011 schedule on Saturday and Sunday, March 26-27, at the beautiful Peek'n Peak Resort& Spa in Findley Lake, New York.

Spectator gates open at 10 a.m. each day, with racing getting under way promptly at 10:30 a.m. Admission is just $12 per day for adults, children age 10 and under are admitted free with a paying adult. Pit passes (valid through the weekend) will be available for an extra $10.

Leading the charge into Findley Lake is Pro division point leader Mathieu Morin. The veteran rider from Val-D'Or, QC, has enjoyed a dominant season, winning 10 finals and the prestigious ECS $3,000 Challenge. Other Pro riders to watch as they chase Morin in Findley Lake include Hulten Speed Sports teammates Danny Poirier and Matt Piche (Polaris); Green Mountain Racing teammates Jason Boron and Matt Pichner (Arctic Cat); along with rookie sensations Corin Todd (Arctic Cat) and Lincoln Lemieux (Ski-doo).

Riders to watch in the talent-filled Semi-Pro division include point leaders Jacob Muller (Saturday) and Lucas Brunelle (Sunday). Only two points separate Brunelle from Chris Ackerman, while Muller maintains an 11-point margin over Ackerman in Saturday competition. Other Semi-Pro riders who will be gunning for wins and podium finishes include Jesse James Bonaduce, Jake daSilva, Dale Petrus, Joey Stock and Todd Smith.

Along with a full card points racing in the Pro and Semi-Pro divisions, Round 8 at Peek'n Peak will also feature some great battles in the Sport, Women and Junior divisions. The riders in these developmental classes work just as hard during race weekends while enjoying some great quality time with their families.
Last year at Peek'n Peak, eventual series champion Bobby "The Rage" LePage swept the Pro finals. The highly-aggressive Minnesota native returned to the ISOC national circuit for 2011 and will not be competing. In Semi-Pro action, Corin Todd and Ash Woskob split the finals. Todd has advanced to the Pro ranks while Woskob is currently out with a broken wrist.

Conveniently located just a short drive from several major interstate highways, the Peek'n Peak Resort& Spa is home to winter's perfect playground. This multi-generational gathering place is ideal for families and groups looking to enjoy the snow on and off the slopes.

Along with a host of restaurants, a ski school, indoor pool and playground, the mountain offers 27 perfectly-groomed trails serviced by eight lifts. Peek'n Peak also features miles of cross-country terrain for skiing and snowshoeing. To learn more, go to www.pknpk.com.

East Coast Snocross, presented by Woody's Traction and AMSOIL, is the new sanctioning body for snowmobile racing in the northeastern United States. ECS maintains a regional circuit intended to keep grass-roots snocross racing healthy in this part of the snowbelt, while also cultivating new talent for tomorrow's factory-backed Pro teams.

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

Historic Bemus Point Business Changes Hands

2011-03-21T16:12:00.002-04:00

Historic Business Changes Hands - post-journal.com News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Jamestown Post-Journal

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Win A Trip To Chautauqua

2011-03-10T12:33:00.000-05:00

Chautauqua: An American Narrative captures the unique environment and opportunities provided by the venerable institution. With an incredibly rich history and a vibrant present-day, it is a uniquely American experience with a pervasive, yet sometimes forgotten, place in American culture and history. Don't you want to visit?? Read on for details!
Monday, March 7th at 8pm, WXXI-TV, Cable 11 & 1011, DT 21.1
Membership Gift Options:
$75 – DVD of the program
$120 – DVD plus the WXXI MemberCard
Click here to make your pledge!
Details on the trip giveaway:
We're giving away a trip for two to the opening weekend of the Summer season at Chautauqua Institution, June 25-26! The package, courtesy of Koning Day Tours, includes lodging at the Anthenaeum Hotel, round trip transportation via deluxe motorcoach, a performance by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and meals!
You can pledge in any amount to enter the drawing automatically. Just click 'yes' to the question on the pledge form. There is no pledge necessary to enter. To enter without making a donation, call our membership office at (585) 258-0200.
For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

5 Big Reasons to Love Your Small House + Storage Tips

2011-03-10T12:25:00.000-05:00

Richard, need storage ideas for small spaces? Read more

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Hello Richard,
Living in a small home doesn't mean you can't live large. A small home gives you more money and time to enjoy your home -- and life! We know storage is the #1 issue, but we've got tips, including kitchen storage ideas, to help maximize your space. ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: A look at the toll this winter's snowstorms took on home owners. More.

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Will strong season ease debt issues at Peek'n Peak?

2011-03-05T15:08:00.002-05:00

By ROBB FREDERICK, Erie Times-News
http://us.mc1147.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=robb.frederick@timesnews.com

The Willis kids have been waiting for this.

Their membership in the Meadville Snow Leopards group allows them to ski at Peek'n Peak Resort and Spa every Sunday. They haven't missed a week.
Beginning Monday, the girls' passes are valid every day. It's one way the resort, about four miles south of Findley Lake, N.Y., acknowledges that spring is coming.
"We're hoping for another storm," said their mother, Chris Norwood. "We're snow people. And this has been a fabulous winter."
The Peak's managers think so, too.
"The snow has been great," said Robert Swenson, the resort's president. He's hoping for cold weather through March 27, when the resort hosts the East Coast Snocross finals.
"After that," he said, "we'll have to play it day by day."
The Peak needed a big winter. The resort's owner, Ohio-based Kiebler Recreation LLC, filed for bankruptcy protection in May, claiming debts of $28 million.
The bulk of that money -- $15.6 million -- was owed to Huntingdon National Bank. The bank attempted to foreclose on the property, only to back off in December, giving the Peak another ski season to generate income.
The arrangement requires monthly payments over a period of 25 years, with a balloon payment at the end of the fifth year.
Swenson would not discuss the specifics.
"There is nothing to report at this time," he said. "It's moving forward. And it really has not affected us at all."
New York state regulators added another hurdle in December. A court motion by the state's Department of Environmental Conservation noted violations at the Peak's sewage-treatment facility, and at three gas wells owned by the resort.
The wells had been abandoned but not plugged, the department alleged. The sites were not marked.
State regulators say those problems have been corrected. They have not alleged that any pollution occurred.
"The facility has been extremely cooperative and responsive," said Lori Severino, a spokeswoman for the Department of Environmental Conservation. "That's worth noting."
The sewage issue has not yet been settled. A state permit issued in 2007 required the resort to design improvements to its on-site treatment plant, which discharges into French Creek, according to the court filing.
The permit was modified in 2009. The resort's operators had decided not to expand -- a move that would have stressed the existing sewage system, according to the court records.
The records were filed in Ohio, where Kiebler Recreation is based.
The state still required design improvements to the sewage plant. The Peak's operators said the bankruptcy filing had delayed that.
"Our resort has experienced a couple of devastating financial years, due to many factors," General Manager Brad Gravink wrote in an undated letter to the Department of Environmental Conservation. "Once we emerge from this, we will be in a position to engineer, seek approval and install the required improvements."
A hearing on the matter has been scheduled for March 15.
The financial issues at the 1,150-acre resort could have an effect on all of Chautauqua County. No company brings more business to the county in winter, said Andrew Nixon, the executive director of the Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau.
"They've had three good ski seasons in a row," Nixon said. "This year probably has been the best because of the consistency of the snowfall.
"If they didn't have that debt," he said, "they'd have been wildly profitable in the last couple years."
Swenson, the resort's president, said his focus is on the future. When the seasons change, the Peak's income will shift from lift tickets to greens fees.
"Everybody's still thinking 'ski'," he said. "But we're pretty much in golf mode right now."

ROBB FREDERICK can be reached at 870-1733 or by e-mail.
For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Lakewood Board Approves Wine Retailer

2011-03-05T13:49:00.002-05:00

March 5, 2011 - By Dennis Phillips, dphillips@post-journal.com

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LAKEWOOD - If everything proceeds as planned, there will be a new wine and liquor store along Chautauqua Avenue this summer.

On Monday, the Lakewood Village Board approved a special-use permit application for Samuel Whitmore of Lakewood. Whitmore is in the process of opening the store to mainly sell wine at 119 Chautauqua Ave., Lakewood.

Duane Anderson, village trustee, said Whitmore is planning to carry wine vintages that are not currently available in the area.

Whitmore was not at the meeting to give comment on his new business. However, according to the minutes of the village's Feb. 16 Planning Board meeting, Whitmore said he is going to provide a different, more specialized selection of wine. Whitmore, who said he has worked in the wine business for many years in California, hopes to appeal to both the tourist from Chautauqua Institution during the summer months and local residents year round.

Whitmore said he is going through the application process for a liquor licenses and wants to be able to open his new business by the end of May. He plans to renovate the building for his new wine shop by redoing the floors and installing wood shelves. He said one to two part-time employees also may be hired.

The planning board also approved the special-use permit application.

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Chautauqua Lake Real Estate Is Off To A Great Start

2011-02-25T12:19:00.002-05:00

Data is only considering single family Lake Front homes based on Chautauqua County multiple listing systems (MLS).

Comparing the first 50 days of 2010 to the first 50 days of 2011 Chautauqua Lake Front home sales have soared.

In 2010 January 1^st to February 19^th , based on the Chautauqua County MLS there were 4 recorded closed transactions.

In 2011 from January 1^st to February 19^th the Chautauqua County MLS system recorded 15 closed transactions. This accounts for a 250 percent JUMP in closed listings for the first 50 days of the year.

Compared below is the average closed price.

2010

AVERAGES:		List Price	Closing Price	Bedrooms	Full Baths	Half Baths	Est Sq Ft	DOM
AVERAGES:		$566,250	$444,750	4.0	2.0	1.0	2,425	243

2011

AVERAGES:		List Price	Closing Price	Bedrooms	Full Baths	Half Baths	Est Sq Ft	DOM
AVERAGES:		$448,000	$410,250	4.0	2.0	1.0	2,313	141

Please note Days on market (DOM) has shortened by 42 percent from 2010.

Buyers are feeling much more confident in the market and are looking to get on board prior to prices going up.

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Still plenty of time for ice fishing

2011-02-24T08:45:00.003-05:00

Picture Courtesy: www.grizzlygary.com

February 24, 2011 - By GENE PAUSZEK, OBSERVER Outdoors Columnist

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There is still a lot of safe ice on Chautauqua Lake with about 12 inches reported away from the shoreline.

Yellow perch and bluegills are the target species, but walleye hits are becoming more numerous. Crappie activity is usually a low light bite.

Lake Erie ice fishing has centered around the Hamburg area. With the warm spell last weekend, area tributaries opened up a bit, but cooler temperatures have restricted creek fishing for awhile. Look for the trout to make a break upstream when the mouths of the creeks open up. It won't be long now.

Trout continue to be caught off the Dunkirk pier with spoon casters and bait fishermen doing progressively better. Brown trout sizes have reportedly been bigger and anglers can expect the bigger rainbows to appear soon.

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

CLA Continues Accepting Ice Pick Guesses

2011-02-05T08:10:00.002-05:00

February 5, 2011 - By Sharon Turano sturano@post-journal.com

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About $6,000 has been raised so far for the Chautauqua Lake Association by those guessing when the ice on the lake will break, but residents can keep guessing.

The Chautauqua Lake Ice Pick is a fundraiser where people predict the time and date when a tripod placed on the ice will fall into the lake this spring for a $5 donation to the lake association.

Peter Sullivan, event organizer, adopted the idea after visiting Nenana, Alaska, where an event was held to predict when the ice breaks. The Alaskan tradition began when people awaited Alaska's Tanana River's ice break to signal the start of when boats with supplies could reach them. He adapted the event for Chautauqua Lake, and the local fundraiser asks people to predict when a tripod, placed on the ice near Stow will fall into the lake this spring.

The contest has its own website at http://www.clakeicepick.org/, where predictions can be made via credit card or by sending a check. Guessing will take place through Feb. 28. All online guesses must be submitted by midnight in order to qualify. All offline guesses must be sent in envelopes postmarked by Feb. 28. The winner will be for the first date beginning March 1. If there is no ice after March 1, the contest, with guesses intact, will carry over to 2012.

Last year's ice broke March 20.

Sullivan invites people to continue to guess, or just donate to the association. His goal for this year's event is to raise $10,000 total.

"We need the public to jump in; anybody can help us get there," he said.

The Chautauqua Lake Association works to protect and improve the quality of Chautauqua Lake, striving to ensure the natural beauty, safety and utility of the lake as a recreational resource.

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Chautauqua County Housing Sales Up In December

2011-02-04T09:38:00.002-05:00

February 4, 2011 - By Dennis Phillips, dphillips@post-journal.com

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The numbers of houses sold in December 2010 in the county increased when compared to November and December 2009.

The state Association of Realtors monthly housing survey indicated that 83 single-family homes were sold in December, which was an increase of seven from November when 76 houses were sold. Also, December saw a yearly increase of eight more homes being purchased in the county when compared to December 2009, when only 75 units were sold.

The increase in houses being purchased in December 2010 followed a productive November when 75 properties were purchased, which was 12 more than in October.

Even with the increases in houses being sold at a ''historically'' affordable time to buy a house with low mortgage rates, numbers usually tend to be down during the winter months, said Jan Murray, county board of realtors executive officer, in December.

''It is a seasonal slow down,'' she said. ''We do expect it to be slow at the beginning of the year, but that is normal.''

Ms. Murray said the county's housing market does have some tourist buyers from people who like winter activities. However, not the same activity realtors see with summer homes.

''We have some buyers, but not as many as in the summer,'' she said. ''We do have winter buyers that like both the winter and summer season.''

Ms. Murray said numbers will probably continue to be down until other economic factors pick up as well, like employment. Even when housing sales are down, Chautauqua County doesn't see drastic changes in the housing market like some other areas of the state, like New York City.

''I've seen that through the 30 years I've been in real estate,'' Ms. Murray said. ''We don't have the highs and we don't have the lows. We just keep plugging along.''

For the year 2010, the federal homebuyer tax credit and low mortgage rates did help bring consumers to the housing market, particularly in the first half of 2010. As a result, 74,718 existing single-family homes were sold in New York state in 2010, a decrease of 4.6 percent from 2009.

''Without the federal homebuyer tax credit, we would undoubtedly be telling a much different story about the Empire State's 2010 housing market,'' said Duncan R. MacKenzie, state Association of Realtors chief executive officer. ''The tax credit, low mortgage rates and large inventory combined to help New York State homebuyers overcome larger concerns about the economy.''

MacKenzie said with little chance of another federal housing credit incentive, the future of the housing market in the state rests with the decisions made by state lawmakers who are addressing a state budget deficit, struggling economy and high property taxes.

''New York's realtors are hopeful and supportive of Gov. (Andrew) Cuomo's efforts to cap property tax growth, and efforts to revitalize the state's economy and create jobs will be a significant factor in the future of the housing market,'' he said. ''(State Association of Realtors) joint consumer research project with the Siena Research Institute shows the majority of New Yorkers value homeownership as part of the American dream and that they are optimistic about the housing market going forward in 2011. We believe that for this optimism to be fully realized our leaders in Albany must enact a property tax cap, provide mandate relief and create homebuyer savings programs.''

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Cockaigne To Reopen Wednesday

2011-01-29T13:17:00.002-05:00

Tent To Arrive From National Guard On Monday

January 29, 2011 - By Dave Emke, demke@post-journal.com

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CHERRY CREEK - In just a few days, skiers will be coming down the slopes at Cockaigne Ski Center once again.
A news conference will be held at Cockaigne today at 10 a.m., where owner Jack VanScoter is expected to announce that the center will reopen for business Wednesday night.
A large tent is expected to arrive from the Army National Guard's 2-101 Cavalry in Buffalo on Monday, and it will be used as a temporary lodge. The ski center's historic lodge, originally the Austrian pavilion during the 1964 New York World's Fair, burned to the ground earlier in the week.
Assemblyman Andy Goodell is helping to coordinate the effort to support the ski center, and he said Friday that agencies including the American Red Cross of Southwestern New York, the Chautauqua County Health Department, the Department of Environmental Conservation, and the state Office of Parks and Recreation are all banding together to get Cockaigne up and running again as quickly as possible.
RED CROSS WORKS TO BRING IN TENT
According to Jeff Laumer, director of emergency services for the American Red Cross of Southwestern New York, the National Guard promotional tent that will serve as Cockaigne's temporary lodge will measure approximately 60 feet by 20 feet.
Laumer said the Red Cross' goal is always to help people get back on their feet after disaster strikes. Cockaigne Ski Center employs more than 200 local individuals, and the Red Cross is there to help them, Laumer said.
As the slopes at Cockaigne were not affected by the fire, and with other area ski lodges chipping in to help with rental equipment, what was needed was a lodge. Laumer said he started calling National Guard units in the area to try to make something happen, eventually making a connection.
''I thought if we could just set something up and help them provide a lodge, that would help them continue to provide operations,'' he said.
After the tent is delivered by the National Guard on Monday, a volunteer team put together by Laumer will assemble it and put it in place for Cockaigne's use. The use of a tent as a lodge will be a return to Cockaigne's roots, as a tent was used as a temporary lodge in 1966 for the ski center's first year of operation while the Austrian pavilion was being reconstructed on site.
''Hopefully, it can stay in place for the rest of the season to serve as their replacement lodge,'' Laumer said. ''It's the first step to coming to a solution.''
MANY COMING TOGETHER
Goodell said that in addition to the tent, the Cockaigne that those who visit will see for the remainder of the season will have many amenities - just in a different setting.
Arrangements are being made with a local food service provider to offer fare such as hot chocolate, hot dogs and hamburgers, he said. Porta-potties will be available as restroom facilities, and picnic tables are being brought in from Midway State Park. Temporary business offices have already been set up in the form of a trailer.
For ski clubs and others who rent their equipment, the ski center plans to have items available. The difference is that - as Cockaigne's equipment was destroyed in the fire - the names on the equipment will reflect the local lodges who have chipped in their support.
''It's likely that if you go to Cockaigne and need ski rentals, you might have skis from Peek'n Peak or Holiday Valley or somewhere else,'' Goodell said. ''There has been a tremendous amount of support coming through.''
Goodell said that in addition to him, local economic development staff including Bill Daly of the county Industrial Development Agency have reached out to Cockaigne, as has County Executive Greg Edwards and the state Economic Development Agency.
All have been coming together to help Cockaigne both in the short term and the long, Goodell said. However, present-day needs must be addressed before anything down the line can be tackled.
''The owner is focused on getting the place opened, and that's an incredible process,'' Goodell said. ''The long-term future of Cockaigne will be addressed as soon as the immediate demands of getting the place opened are taken care of.''
OVERWHELMING SUPPORT
The remains of the former lodge are in the process of being relocated from their current location to a cleared area near the ski center's entrance, from which they will be removed in the spring.
At the same time, a volunteer effort is being coordinated to begin the effort to transform the former Grainery Restaurant, located across the street from Cockaigne, into a more permanent lodge. Goodell said work is already being done to attempt to transfer the lodge's liquor license to the former restaurant, and that the Alcohol Beverage Control board is being very cooperative in the effort.
Goodell said he is coordinating the effort even though Cockaigne is not in his Assembly district because he has special ties to the ski center. Not only is he a certified ski instructor at Cockaigne who lost all of his equipment in the fire, he said, but many of the center's employees live in his district.
''I took the lead just because of the employment impact on Chautauqua County, and because I have a longtime personal relationship with Cockaigne,'' he said.
Goodell said Assemblyman Joe Giglio - in whose district Cockaigne sits - is also very supportive of the effort, as is state Sen. Cathy Young.
''Certainly, they will do anything they can to help the employees and help the organization survive this,'' he said. ''And we're lucky to have those two there.''
Goodell said that the overwhelming support that has been shown from so many different people and agencies has been incredible.
''It really is heartwarming, and it some ways it's what's unique about Chautauqua County and the people here,'' he said. ''We have a reputation for pulling together and helping each other when we really need to.''

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

Fire destroys Cockaigne Ski Area lodge

2011-01-26T09:33:00.002-05:00

Updated: January 26, 2011, 1:37 AM

CHERRY CREEK — The smoldering remains of one of Western New York's most notable buildings served as a gathering place Tuesday for awestruck Southern Tier residents who planned their winters around the Cockaigne Ski Area.

The ski site's main lodge had been proudly known as the Austrian Pavilion at the 1964 World's Fair in New York City. Nearly all of the ornate wooden structure, purchased in 1965 and reconstructed the next year at the ski facility, was destroyed Monday night in a towering fire that could be seen for up to five miles.

Because of the "extensive damage," fire inspectors from the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office, who finished digging through the icy, charred beams of the lodge's remains Tuesday evening, said the cause might never be determined.

Officials said they don't suspect foul play in the fire, which started in the lodge's ski rental area.

Owner Jack Van Scoter declined to comment Tuesday about the fire, which hit at the peak of ski season, or about his plans for of the ski area. A damage estimate had not been determined, and whether the ski area was insured remained unclear.

"It's the focal point of this whole area," said John Carson, 45, of Eden, who as a child spent each cold season in a winter home across the road from the ski area. "It was home to a lot of people, a lot of friendships, and that was what Cockaigne was all about."

Their beloved winter area offered 1,100-foot slopes and affordable prices. But at about 10:20 p.m. Monday, a Chautauqua County plow driver noticed flames in the back portion of the two-story lodge.

The first of the 150 responding firefighters, from the Cherry Creek Fire Department and six other companies, went into a defensive stance as they poured water on the blaze to make sure the signature arches on the building's top didn't fall dangerously.

"Me and my son had to come here [Monday night], for whatever reason, until we couldn't stand to watch [it burn]," Carson said.

The remains were still smoldering when Tim Cobb, a Cassadaga Fire Department chief, arrived at noon Tuesday to relieve the first shift of workers. He described the fire as "very large," and one neighbor said firefighters told him they were pumping 3,000 gallons per minute from tankers and a nearby stream.

Absent Tuesday were the once-regular busloads of high school students from ski clubs at Southwestern, Falconer and Fredonia high schools.

In their place was a nonstop chain of vehicles carrying visitors who wanted to see the unfortunate ruins first hand.

"It was open 106 days [a year]. I was out there 101 days," said Steven Cardot, 19, a Forestville High graduate who worked at Cockaigne. "Snowboarding was my life. I can't do anything now. I've got no snowboard, and I can't afford to drive to [other ski areas]."

Cardot and Nate Mages, 19, looped around the cordoned-off perimeter where firefighters blasted the smoldering wood and Van Scoter worked with fire officials to try to figure out where the fire started.

Upon walking up to the ruins, Mages recognized the equipment and rental room "where we sat every day." He emerged with blackened hands and, most importantly to him, the shovel he used to dig and pack snow to make snowboarding jumps.

"My shovel's still there," Cardot said. "I want to get it. I want to put it on my wall."

Cardot's carefree memories were like those of many who gathered Tuesday. On the front of the lodge, the sign reading "Gemutlich" — German for "agreeably pleasant" — remained largely intact.

"I grew up skiing here," said Mike Eaker, 53, who first worked at Cockaigne as a lift attendant in 1976 and has worked ski patrol since 1980. "My family skied here. My kids skied here. They were family here, wherever they came from, whether it be Cleveland, Toronto, or any other ski towns. They were family."

Two members of that family said Tuesday that they've been drawn to the area for 37 years because of the care skiers took for each other.

"Everyone here kind of watched out for one another," said Eden resident Carol Wagner. "It's been a way of life for a lot of people. It was a wonderful place. It will be sorely missed."

Wagner, whose son grew up skiing on Cockaigne's three slopes and 17 trails before he reached the Junior Olympics, said she hopes Van Scoter can find some way to operate the slope again.

Carson said Van Scoter operated the ski area's rental stations and restaurant/bar area with a personal touch.

"You'll see him running through, picking up plates after lunch," Carson said. "He knows all of his employees."

"He's pretty upset," said Carol Wagner, another Eden resident.

News Staff Reporter Gene Warner contributed to this report.

cspecht@buffnews.com

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living visit: http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/

Owners, Renters Agree: Owning a Home Is a Smart Decision

2011-01-20T12:58:00.002-05:00

Press Release Source: National Association of Realtors On Wednesday January 19, 2011, 1:08 pm EST

WASHINGTON, DC--(Marketwire - 01/19/11) - A substantial majority of both home owners and current renters agree that owning a home is a smart decision over the long term. That's according to the results of a National Association of Realtors® survey of 3,793 adults conducted online by Harris Interactive.
The American Attitudes About Homeownership survey found that in today's challenging economy, 95 percent of owners and 72 percent of renters believe that over a period of several years, it makes more sense to own a home. In addition, an overwhelming majority of home owners are happy with their decision to own a home -- 93 percent of owners surveyed would buy again.
"Home owners and renters agree that home ownership benefits individuals and families, strengthens our communities, and is integral to our nation's economy," said National Association of Realtors® President Ron Phipps, broker-president of Phipps Realty in Warwick, R.I. "The results of this survey illustrate just how important issues related to home ownership are to people in this country."
The survey uncovered some differences between home owners and renters, as well. While more than half of owners are "very" or "extremely" satisfied with the overall quality of their family life, only one-third of renters report the same levels of satisfaction. Similarly, 43 percent of home owners are very/extremely satisfied with their community life, compared with 30 percent of renters.
A majority of renters -- 63 percent -- said that it was at least somewhat likely that they would purchase a home at some point in the future. Among this group, young adults (18-29 years old) have the strongest aspirations for home ownership; only 8 percent of young adults said that it was "not at all likely" that they would purchase a home at some point in the future.
In today's market, many aspiring home owners are faced with worries about job security and creditworthiness. Among renters who are very or extremely likely to buy a home in the future, three out of five consider confidence in job security and creditworthiness to be an obstacle.
One point of agreement between renters and home owners was support of the mortgage interest deduction (MID). Seventy-four percent of owners and 62 percent of renters say it's "extremely" or "very" important that the MID remain in place.
"At a time when the middle class is under increasing economic pressures, both home owners and renters agree that the mortgage interest deduction should not be targeted for change," said Phipps. "Given strong public support of and aspirations toward owning a home, we need to keep policies in place that support and encourage responsible, sustainable home ownership for our future."
This survey was conducted online within the U.S. and fielded October 6-20, 2010. A total of 3,793 adults, 18 and older were surveyed, including 1,880 home owners, 1,115 renters, and 798 young adults. All samples came from the Harris Poll online database and were weighted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, region and household income to be representative of the U.S. general population of adults 18 and older. Propensity score weighting was also used to adjust for respondents' propensity to be online. Results are available online at www.realtor.org/statsanddata/homeownership/attitudes_homeown.
The National Association of Realtors®, "The Voice for Real Estate," is America's largest trade association, representing 1.1 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.
Information about NAR is available at www.realtor.org. This and other news releases are posted in the News Media section.
REALTOR® is a registered collective membership mark which may be used only by real estate professionals who are members of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® and subscribe to its strict Code of Ethics. Not all real estate agents are REALTORS®. All REALTORS® are members of NAR

For more infornation on Chautasuqua Lake Real Estate & Living Visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

Holiday Valley to Build Sky High Adventure Park

2011-01-15T10:01:00.002-05:00

January 13, 2011 9:54 am Chautauqua-Allegheny, Winter, snow sports

Ellicottville, N.Y. - Holiday Valley's President, Dennis Eshbaugh announced on Jan. 8 that the resort will be constructing an Adventure Park in the Tannenbaum area at Holiday Valley. The park will feature an Aerial Adventure Park and a Mountain Coaster. The Aerial Park will open in June of 2011 and the Mountain Coaster will open later in the summer. More elements will be added to the park in the future.
Holiday Valley will be working with Outdoor Ventures Group of Southport, Connecticut to design and build the Aerial Park and Wiegand Sports of Utah and Germany for design and construction of the Mountain Coaster.
The Aerial Park is a series of platforms and "bridges" to be built in a 4 acre section of the woods adjacent to the Tannenbaum slope. The wooden platforms are built in the trees and the bridges connect the platforms. Bridges may be logs, hanging chunks of wood, loops of rope or other options and the challenge is to figure out how to get across to the next platform. A successful crossing is not a strength issue; it is more strategy and balance. There are different levels of difficulty and the more difficult the course, the higher up it is in the trees. Some courses have zip lines between areas. All participants wear a harness that has a special locking lanyard that safeguards them from falling if they slip or let go. Samples of the platforms and bridges have been installed in the ceilings of each of Holiday Valley's base lodges and a video of a similar park is available at www.holidayvalley.com/skyhigh.
The Mountain Coaster is similar to a roller coaster, but it will be built in the woods next to the Spruce Line slope. People ride up the mountain in a "car" that is attached to rails, and then it follows a zig zagging spiraling path down the mountain. Riders are able to control their speed with hand brakes on the car. The Mountain Coaster will operate year 'round, and the Aerial Park will operate spring, summer and fall. Plans are to begin construction of the Mountain Coaster in April and it will be open for business this summer.
Mr. Eshbaugh said, "We're really excited about the new Sky High Adventure Park. It will help attract more visitors to our region and give them a totally new outdoor experience."
Holiday Valley (http://www.holidayvalley.com/ ) in Western New York State is a leading eastern North American year 'round resort. Fifty-eight slopes and 13 lifts offer challenging skiing and snowboarding. An 18 hole golf course, mountain biking trails and a 3-pool complex provide summer activities. Lodging is available on the slopes and golf course and in nearby Ellicottville, a quaint village with shops, restaurants and an exciting night life

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

THINKING ABOUT SPRING—The Chautauqua Lake Association

2011-01-14T12:25:00.002-05:00

THINKING ABOUT SPRING—The Chautauqua Lake Association will kick off its first Chautauqua Lake Ice Pick fundraiser at 4 p.m. today at the Stow Ferry. Based on an Alaskan tradition, the contest asks participants to make an exact prediction when a large tripod, to be placed on Chautauqua Lake near Stow today, will fall into the lake this spring. The winner gets a plaque and bragging rights. A$5 donation is required for each guess and can be paid in the form of credit card or check. Entries are being accepted through Feb. 28. For more information, call the association at 763-8602 or go to www.clakeicepick.org, where you can download a printable entry ticket or pay online

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

Sled in Style with a Chautauqua County Snowmobile Group

2011-01-13T09:34:00.002-05:00

Published Wednesday, January 12th, 2011 in Scott Wise

The Chautauqua Star and Bulletin Board is proud to feature our "Winter Recreation" section, located on pages 6 and 7 of our Sports section. Join us every week as we showcase each of the local snowmobile groups and see what they bring to our area.

The Chautauqua Lake Snowmobile Club maintains almost 300 miles of trail in Chautauqua County. Submitted Photo.

If you're from Chautauqua County, you probably hear more often than not, "Why on earth would you want to live somewhere where you only have two months of summer?"
For the dedicated snowmobilers in the area, their answer will be, "Because we get five months of winter!"
With over 450 miles of groomed trails in Chautauqua County, there's enough trail to spend a winter out of the house and on the sled.

One of the greatest things about being an avid snowmobiler in Chautauqua County is the assurance that you're not alone. There are five snowmobiling groups in Chautauqua County- the Chautauqua Lake Snowmobile Club, the Cherry Creek Sno-Goers, the Ellery Sno-Cruisers, the Lake Effect Trail Breakers and the Sunset Drifters. All of these groups offer benefits for members that guarantee not only a great ride, but a safe one.
The Chautauqua Lake Snowmobile Club is the largest in Western New York, encompassing around 300 miles of the trails in the county. The club has over 1,500 members and has been in existence for over 40 years.
"The first perk of being in a club is the camaraderie and friendship of the people who come and ride," said Marcus Maloney, Events and Activities Coordinator for the Chautauqua Lake Snowmobile Club.
But making friends isn't the only benefit to joining a club in New York State. Any club member can receive a discount on their state registration fees.
"All of the clubs have seen a ride in membership because of that discount," said Maloney, who is a member of three Chautauqua County clubs. "For the Chautauqua Lake Snowmobile Club, our membership fee is only $30 for a family for the season."
Maloney stresses that the importance of joining a snowmobile club is not just to get a discount, but for the safety and guaranteed maintenance of traveling the group's trails.
"We have nine groomers that take care of our trails year-round," said Maloney. "One hundred percent of our proceeds go toward trail maintenance and safety."

One of Chautauqua Lake Snowmobile Club's 9 Trail Groomers.

The Chautauqua Lake Snowmobile Club also has a clubhouse located of Hannum Road in Mayville, at the corner of two popular trails. Members can take a break from the cold with a hot chocolate, coffee, pop or just spending some time getting to know the other riders on their trail.
Members also enjoy monthly meetings throughout the year, where they meet to discuss the trails, exchange safety concerns, share stories and learn about groomer operation and regulations.
"We usually ride for about three to four months a year- November or December until St. Patrick's Day," said Maloney. "We spend the rest of the year sharing stories and looking forward to the next year- building bridges and trimming trees. The whole trail system is also now GPS Coordinated, so you don't have to worry about getting lost."
Trail membership is also good for local business. Members come from Ohio and Pennsylvania and bring more winter business to the hundreds of popular local business and restaurants along the trails.
"Most of our members like to go out and try lots and lots of different places," said Maloney. "We're nothing without local businesses, and they're all huge supports of our clubs and the trails."
For more information on the Chautauqua Lake Snowmobile Group, including trail conditions visit www.chautauquasnow.com or call their 'Sno-Phone' at 716-753-2924.

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com

Pending home sales continue recovery

2011-01-10T05:57:00.002-05:00

According to the National Association of REALTORS, pending home sales rose again in November, with the broad trend over the past five months indicating a gradual recovery for 2011. The Pending Home Sales Index rose 3.5 percent to 92.2 based on contracts signed in November from a downwardly revised 89.1 in October.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said historically high housing affordability is boosting sales activity. "In addition to exceptional affordability conditions, steady improvements in the economy are helping bring buyers into the market," he said. "But further gains are needed to reach normal levels of sales activities." To read the full NAR report, and an interview with Lawrence Yun, click here.

C. Rick & Julia McMahon
Broker/partners Real Estate Advantage
Bemus Point & Jamestown, NY
716-483-3300 or 484-2020
http://www.chautauqualakehomes.com/