Hammondsport approves school sale

    HAMMONDSPORT—The Hammondsport board of education approved the sale of the former Glenn Curtiss Memorial School to Simon Sananas, Wednesday, Feb. 15.
    Sananas offered $301,000 for the building and property, which used to house grades four to six.  This is the second time the district has offered to sell the property; the first time to the town of Urbana was turned down by district residents in a referendum vote.  This time, the district received two offers.  One, which was rescinded last month, was from Cindy Tallo for $250,000.  Developer Jim Keena wanted to turn the property into apartments.
    Sananas is proposing to turn the former school into a non-profit community art museum and cultural center.  He has explained it will assist disabled persons with physical and mental rehabilitation through art.  Sananas has stated he wants to offer programs for Hammondsport students, showcase art, and invite artists to participate with the center.
    In other business:
    • The board approved refinancing serial bonds from the 2003 capital project.  The board then also authorized using up to $300,000 against the the outstanding balance on the serial bonds to decrease what the district owes.
    • Superintendent Kyle Bower said Hammondsport is looking to offer adult education classes.  He explained BOCES can organize classes at Hammondsport if there is enough interest and people willing to teach courses.  Bower said the instructors need only be someone "interested in sharing their knowledge."
    • Three elementary students were recognized at the meeting.  Abby DeArmitt was honored for her good behavior and attitude in class.  Jacob Webber and Kyara Crooks were recognized for participating in the 29th Congressional District longhouse competition.
    • A number of spring coaching assignments were approved: Chris McConnell to modified baseball; Dan Conley to varsity baseball; Barb Yahn to modified softball; Lynn Binnert to varsity softball; Marc Hopkins to varsity girls track; Jason Brayman to varsity boys track; Tom Jackson to varsity boys tennis; and Leo Stermole to varsity golf.