John Christensen
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Articles by John Christensen
Tucker's steadying influence is example the city needs
I recently returned from an eye-opening exploration of Pope Leo’s encyclical on safeguarding the human person in the time of artificial intelligence at the McGrath Institute at the University of Notre Dame. Topical experts and panel discussions broke open the dialogue with some of life’s biggest and deepest questions about what it means to be human. It was simultaneously frightening and hopeful, universal and personal, philosophical and practical.
PAGES PAST - 1926: Woman Disappears from Presbyterian Manse
1926: The former manse of Penn Yan First Presbyterian Church, from whence 29-year-old Minnie Frisbie disappeared 100 years ago. Photo Credit: John Christensen/Chronicle-Express PAGES PAST The Chronicle-Express: Consolidation, January 1, 1926, of the Yates County Chronicle (1824) and the Penn Yan Express (1866); the Rushville Chronicle (1905) and… Previous Post SPORTS ROUNDUP
FLEDC CEO Steve Griffin named Chair of NY State Economic Development Council
Skip to content Steve Griffin, CEO of the Finger Lakes Development Center (Yates County's IDA), has been named Chair of the New York State Economic Development Council Board of Directors for a two-year term. The NYSEDC represents over 1,000 member organizations and partners across the state.
AFTER THOUGHTS Stay engaged with Public Safety Building discussions
Skip to content The old Yates County Jail, built in 1904-'05, was razed in 2001 to make way for the new county office building. Photo Credit: File Photo By Gwen Chamberlain Just a few days after Frank Mitchell escaped from the certified decrepit 1857 Yates County lock-up, the county’s newest jail was ready… Login to continue reading Sign up for complimentary access Close
Penn Yan man to challenge O'Mara for State Senate
Home Uncategorized Penn Yan man to challenge O'Mara for State Senate Penn Yan man to challenge O'Mara for State Senate Jim Bobreski, of Penn Yan, is challenging NY State Senator Tom O'Mara for the 58th District on the Democratic ticket. Bobreski is an inventor, process engineer, former nuclear power worker, and farmer.
SOLDIERS & SAILORS '108 Holes for Health' Golf Challenge tees it up for summer
Golf professional Bob King and golfer Michael Gleason kick off the 2026 Finger Lakes Health Foundations 108 Holes for Health Golf Challenge at Challenge host course Lakeside Country Club in Penn Yan. Golfers of all abilities can take on the Challenge of playing 6 rounds of golf when and where they want between June 15 and September 15, for a chance to win a $500 Wegmans gift card and other prizes.
SPORTS ROUNDUP PYA Lax, 29x Sectional Champions!
SOLDIERS & SAILORS '108 Holes for Health' Golf Challenge tees it up for summer
Keuka College alumnus becomes youngest port leader in nation
Tom Drumm, Keuka College class of '15, was recently named CEO of the Port of Oswego Authority a waterfront district with an illustrious history and a promising future. OSWEGO – A 33-year-old Keuka College alumnus is now the youngest person to oversee a major U.S. port of call. Tom Drumm, ’15, was appointed… Previous Post SPORTS ROUNDUP
Penn Yan plays host for Contract Bridge Regional Tournament
PENN YAN – The American Contract Bridge League is bringing their 2026 District 4 Regional Tournament to Keuka Lake this year. Players will be in…
AFTER THOUGHTS The jail that inspired poetry
AFTER THOUGHTS The jail that inspired poetry By Gwen Chamberlain In 1982 Steven King published a short story — “Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption” — that became a popular 1994 feature movie,…
Town of Torrey Memorial Day Service
DRESDEN – The Town of Torrey will hold its annual Memorial Day Service at 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 25 at the Gazebo at the corner…
A YATES COUNTY CONVERSATION: 'Housing
Yates County Concerned Citizens Do we have a shortage of attainable housing in Yates County? Do you know someone employed in the area or hoping…
2026 Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony in Penn Yan
PENN YAN – The 2026 Memorial Day Parade will begin at 10 a.m.on North Main St. and proceed to Courthouse Square at the corner of…
Surprise reunion, inspiring messages highlight Keuka College Commencement
Home Uncategorized Surprise reunion, inspiring messages highlight Keuka College Commencement Surprise reunion, inspiring messages highlight Keuka College Commencement Management major Madisyn Theresa Robinson-Mayer embraces her brother, Army Combat Medic Specialist Tyler Robinson, after he surprised her with his attendance at Keuka College's Commencement ceremony on Saturday. Madisyn was one of two student speakers at the ceremony.
Volunteers needed to place Veterans' grave flags May 21
May 21, volunteers are needed to help in returning the Veterans' grave flags at Lakeview Cemetery in time for Memorial Day. PENN YAN – Volunteers are needed to help the Johnson-Costello Post #355 place the memorial flags on Veterans graves at Lakeview Cemetery in Penn Yan… Previous Post URGENT: Report Your Seneca Lake Shoreline Damage
URGENT: Report Your Seneca Lake Shoreline Damage
Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association is seeking documented damage reports with specific addresses to direct state inspectors and assist county and state emergency action. Photo Credit: Provided/Chronicle-Express From Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association: As you know, Seneca Lake has been at sustained high levels for over a month. With recent high-wind events,… Previous Post SPORTS ROUNDUP
Milly's Pantry Grand Reopening May 16
PENN YAN – Milly’s Pantry will celebrate our grand opening from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 16. This is a chance to honor…
Corvette Thunder in the Glen Returns May 15-16
Free Saturday festival features hundreds of Corvettes, live music, family activities, and historic parade laps. Photo Credit: Provided/Chronicle-Express WATKINS GLEN — Corvette enthusiasts and motorsports fans will gather in the heart of the Finger Lakes this spring for the return of Corvette Thunder… Previous Post CARTOON
YATES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Seeking nominations for 2026 Community Awards
The Wall That Heals Committee were recognized in 2025 with the Jack Snow Award for their outstanding dedication to community enrichment through volunteerism, leadership, collaboration, and engagement. This committee worked tirelessly to bring the traveling replica version of the Vietnam Memorial Wall to Yates County in August of 2024. The Yates County Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for its Annual Community Awards. Nominations must be submitted by Wednesday, May 20, 2026.
Alexander pleads guilty in Esperanza fraud case
The familiar sight of the historic Esperanza Mansion from Rte. 54A., now operating under the name "The Mansion at Keuka Lake." Photo Credit: John Christensen/Chronicle-Express John Christensen The Chronicle-Express PENN YAN – In Yates County Criminal Court April 29, Todd Alexander entered a plea to 4th degree Grand Larceny before… Previous Post GUEST ESSAY Are we past the point of no return?
GUEST ESSAY Are we past the point of no return?
The Public Safety Building in Penn Yan was built in the early 1970s. Photo Credit: File Photo I confess, I had not paid much attention to local government affairs since moving back to Penn Yan in 2012. Recently, however, several issues have… Previous Post Penn Yan Farmers' Market opens June 20
Penn Yan Farmers' Market opens June 20
Home Uncategorized Penn Yan Farmers' Market opens June 20 Penn Yan Farmers' Market opens June 20 The freshest and most local produce is to be found at the Penn Yan Farmers' Market every Saturday morning. Get there early for the best selection.
POLICE REPORTS: Vehicle break-ins under investigation
The Penn Yan Police Department will be taking part in the nationwide Click It or Ticket enforcement campaign from May 18 through May 31, reminding drivers and passengers that wearing a seat belt is one of the simplest and most effective ways to stay safe on the road. Officers will be conducting increased patrols and enforcement efforts throughout the campaign to encourage compliance with seat belt laws and reduce preventable injuries and fatalities.
Mobile Dairy Experience brings hands-on learning
Home Uncategorized Mobile Dairy Experience brings hands-on learning Mobile Dairy Experience brings hands-on learning One of the interactive exhibits lets the students get hands-on experience with modern milking equipment. Photo Credit: Provided/Chronicle-Express PENN YAN — Students across the Penn Yan Central School District recently stepped outside their traditional classrooms and into the world of modern agriculture, thanks… Previous Post 'Celebrate Service...
'Celebrate Service... Celebrate Yates' puts the spotlight on community
Keuka student volunteers at Oak Knoll Cemetery in Keuka Park. Photo Credit: Provided/Chronicle-Express YATES COUNTY – Volunteers from across Yates County came together on Sunday for the annual Celebrate Service… Celebrate Yates (CSCY) initiative, continuing a tradition of… Previous Post OUTDOORS 'Lights Out!' for migrating birds
OUTDOORS 'Lights Out!' for migrating birds
Photo of American Goldfinch Photo Credit: Photo by Mary Ellen Staten FINGER LAKES – The trees have leaves, the grass is green, and birds can be heard all around. Spring is finally in full swing. While… Previous Post CARTOON
KC Expo will showcase student scholarship, creativity May 2
Junior Occupational Therapy majors, from left, Hayleigh Vanderhos, Anna Taylor, Curtis Law, and Sarah Klein present their poster during the 2025 Keuka College Expo. This year’s event will be held on Saturday, May 2, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Lightner Library. KEUKA PARK – Keuka College will host its fourth annual Keuka College Expo (KCx) on Saturday, May 2, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in… Previous Post FL Camerata performs 'From Darkness to Light' May 2-3
FL Camerata performs 'From Darkness to Light' May 2-3
FL Camerata performs 'From Darkness to Light' May 2-3 CANANDAIGUA — The Finger Lakes Camerata, a chamber choir based at Finger Lakes Community College, will give two free concerts the first weekend in May.…
Leadership of Tucker pointing us to progress
In this world of sound bites, quick fixes and empty promises, I wanted to personally thank Mayor Sharon Tucker for always communicating honestly and openly with the community and giving us credit for being able to understand the nuances of tough decision-making. She seems to be the only one willing to have hard conversations with real people about real questions as I witness her participation on public panels for neighborhoods, youth violence, public investments and homelessness, to name a few.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR Housing: If not here, where?
Skip to content I have watched the annexation battle with some detachment because we are not residents of Milo. But as a Yates County taxpayer, I am horrified… Login to continue reading Sign up for complimentary access Close
Bipartisan support for bill to expand organ donor registration
Legislators from the Bronx to Buffalo told their personal stories about organ and tissue donation, encouraging New Yorkers to enroll in the Donate Life Registry. The event was led by Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes and Assembly Member Phil Palmesano (right) to kick off Donate Life Month.
COLE CIRCUS FRIDAY AT PENN YAN ACADEMY
Comedian “Pacusito” is one of many new features of the Cole All-Star Circus, coming to Penn Yan Academy this Friday, April 24, 7:00 PM, sponsored by the Penn Yan Music Boosters. The Cole All-Star Circus returns to Penn Yan this Friday, April 24. Showtime is 7:00 PM in the Penn Yan Academy gym. The Music Boosters… Previous Post Help honor Penn Yan Academy's athletic legacy
Help honor Penn Yan Academy's athletic legacy
PENN YAN – Nominations are now being accepted for the Penn Yan Academy Athletic Hall of Fame. This honor recognizes teams, individual athletes, coaches, and…
Yates County Habitat for Humanity seeks 22nd partner family
This two-story house on Bigelow Ave. in Dundee is the twenty-first home built by Yates County Habitat for Humanity. The partner family that will eventually live in this home has contributed nearly 500 hours of 'sweat equity' working alongside Habitat volunteers. Photo Credit: Provided/Chronicle-Express DUNDEE – A new home is rising on Bigelow Ave. in Dundee, two days a week. Dedicated volunteers from Yates County Habitat for Humanity have… Previous Post SPORTS ROUNDUP
Record Store Day, April 18 at WaxPax Records
The Yates County Chamber of Commerce celebrated the official ribbon cutting for WaxPax Records on Friday, March 27, welcoming the new record shop to downtown Penn Yan at 112 Main Street. ENN YAN – WaxPax Records will have special hours and happenings on Record Store Day taking place on Saturday, April 18. They will have hundreds… Previous Post 'Music Man Jr.' on PYA stage this weekend Next Post SPORTS ROUNDUP
'Music Man Jr.' on PYA stage this weekend
Marian the Librarian (Ellie Heise) falling for "flim-flam man" Harold Hill (Elder Dimpfl). Photo Credit: Provided/Chronicle-Express John Christensen The Chronicle-Express The Musical Theatre Company of The Seneca School of Performing Arts will be performing “Music Man Jr.” at Penn Yan Academy… Previous Post AFTER THOUGHTS Water woes bring me back
AFTER THOUGHTS Water woes bring me back
By Gwen Chamberlain This isn’t what I thought I’d be writing about upon my return. My last column, published in December, included a list of…
Growers and vintners still buzzing from 2025 vintage
Home Uncategorized Growers and vintners still buzzing from 2025 vintage Growers and vintners still buzzing from 2025 vintage Bully Hill Vineyards in Hammondsport Photo Credit: Rima Brindamour NY Wine & Grape Foundation, Written by Kathleen Willcox and Robin Shreeves NEW YORK – Across the Empire State, the buzz on the 2025 harvest… Previous Post PY Youth Soccer teams end seasons on high notes
PY Youth Soccer teams end seasons on high notes
Growers and vintners still buzzing from 2025 vintage
Hoban resigns from Milo Town Council
John Christensen The Chronicle-Express PENN YAN – Teresa Hoban, the Penn Yan businesswoman and chiropractor who was recently re-elected as a Village of Penn Yan…
KLA receives $105K grant to fight invasive fanwort
John Christensen The Chronicle-Express KEUKA LAKE – The N.Y. State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has announced more than $5.1 million to reduce the negative…
'Leave a Legacy' during Donate Life Month
Skip to content PENN YAN — The Yates County Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is teaming up with Donate Life New York State (NYS) in observance of National… Login to continue reading Sign up for complimentary access Close
HERE'S TO YOUR HEALTH Vaccination is not an 'experiment'
HERE'S TO YOUR HEALTH Vaccination is not an 'experiment' Dr. Wayne S. Strouse, MD, FAAFP President Elect, NY State Academy of Family Physicians It is late in a relatively long and brutal winter, and…
Boating advisory for Seneca, Canandaigua, Keuka Lakes
HERE'S TO YOUR HEALTH Vaccination is not an 'experiment'
Penn Yan attorney acquitted of rape charges
John Christensen The Chronicle-Express PENN YAN – Following a week-long trial, Attorney Thomas E. Plan, 30, of Penn Yan, has been acquitted of two charges…
Road closure on Rte. 230 in Barrington
Skip to content Between Andrews Hill and Crystal Springs Road The New York State Department of Transportation is advising motorists that a portion of State Route 230, between… Login to continue reading Sign up for complimentary access Close
Penn Yan FFA excels at Western Substates Leadership Development events
Home Uncategorized Penn Yan FFA excels at Western Substates Leadership Development events Penn Yan FFA excels at Western Substates Leadership Development events Penn Yan FFA members at the Western Substates Leadership Development Events. Photo Credit: Provided/Chronicle-Express ALFRED – Students from the Penn Yan FFA chapter earned multiple top finishes and advanced competitors to the state level. At the Western Substates Leadership… Previous Post NY needs to take charge of its energy future.
NY needs to take charge of its energy future. Here's how.
NY needs to take charge of its energy future. Here's how. By Suzanne Hunt and Jigar Shah New York is in an energy affordability crisis. This winter exposed the flaws in our system, and many New…
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