SoFLX Living

Meet Brian Lee Whisenhunt and Mitchell Smith

Brian Lee Whisenhunt and Mitchell Smith live in the Village of Painted Post, NY with their two dogs, Stella Josephine Parker and Nova Delphine Parker (The Parker Sisters), in a mid-century ranch that backs up to the woods. “Our family life is centered on time with friends and family; exploring the Finger Lakes region; lots of gardening and work around our property; travel and exploring different cities and communities near and far; we’re also makers and performers, so we’re always creating something or developing a new scheme of some sort.”

Brian and Mitchell moved to the Finger Lakes from Midland, TX – “which is way out in West Texas desert” – in December of 2016. “After all that time away from bodies of water, large trees, and lush vegetation, we spent the first summer in the Finger Lakes in a little bit of shock. Honestly, we were both enraptured by the verdancy of this region and couldn’t get enough of the natural beauty of it. We still can’t.”

They met in Wichita, KS before moving to Austin, TX, and then to Terre Haute, IN before heading back to Texas. Neither of them is from any of those places, so they’ve created family, found friends, and built community around them wherever they’ve gone.

Brian was born and raised in Tulsa, OK and Mitchell is a native of upstate New York. That’s a bit of a joke between them because even though Mitchell was born in the Norwich area, he and his mother left when he was 3 years old, and he hadn’t been back Upstate until his move with Brian. 

Brian’s role as the Executive Director of The Rockwell Museum brought them to the area. Though Mitchell still has family in the area and childhood photos from the region, they still didn’t quite know what to expect when moving here. Mitchell’s mother didn’t really have fond memories and was worried they would be bored— but they have found that not to be the case! 

“Like a lot of people, our previous New York experience was New York City, so we didn’t know a lot about the area. We were unaware of just how different it would be,” Mitchell said. “We did some research before Brian had applied to be the new executive director at the Rockwell Museum, but we were concerned about the size of Corning, NY, and as a queer couple, initially weren’t quite sure we wanted to move somewhere so small—even in New York state.” In the end, Corning and the areas around it have proven to be an amazing place to live for them. “No matter where our travels take us, it always feels like such a comfortable, welcoming, and easy place to return to.” 

Other than having to drive their dogs across the country in a 3-door Toyota Yaris, the move was easy for them and things quickly fell into place once Brian accepted his new job. “We closed on our house in less than two months and were able to move in the day after we arrived in December. We had some help on the ground, so our advice to those relocating to the area is to never ignore tips and tricks from friends, neighbors, and acquaintances. Find someone who made the move recently and get all the info you can from them.”

Their best tip, however, is “Start a list on your phone of the places, spaces, and things to do in the Finger Lakes! Everyone here is so generous in sharing the things they love and we’re still checking things off and adding to the list we started when we moved here.”

While Brian is enjoying his work at the museum, Mitchell has had a few jobs since arriving to the area, including working for the Hangar Theatre in Ithaca, 171 Cedar Arts Center in Corning, and now at Corning Community College Development Foundation where he is currently serving as the Director of Development. 

Since they both have professional roles with community connections, they spend quite a bit of time on the events and activities of those organizations, like the Elmira Little Theater (ELT) and the Museum Association of New York (MANY). Mitchell was on the board of ELT and is a past president of the organization and Brian currently serves as the president of the Board of Directors of MANY.

“We found and developed a community of friends since our arrival that’s much deeper and more expansive than where we’ve previously lived. There is just something extremely welcoming about Corning and the region—it’s hard to describe, but beautiful to experience. Beyond the amazing people, the area is just beautiful. We try to spend the summer exploring with our dogs Stella Jo and Nova Dee. We have a lifetime membership for the State Parks and take advantage of the natural beauty that surrounds us whenever we can.” Though they won’t name their favorite State Park here because it’s quiet and off the beaten path and they want it to stay that way! “But if you see us out and chat us up and we’ll be happy to share all our secret favorite things.”

Brian and Mitchell’s day-to-day is pretty quiet and low-key. They appreciate their short commutes to work and the time it affords for their family, doing things around the house and relaxing after work. “We are lucky our careers support personal missions to increase access to art and culture for everyone. We love living in a community that truly appreciates the arts and the value they add to the quality of life.”

Like a lot of people in the region, how they spend their time is informed by the seasons and the weather. At the time of this publishing, it’s summer in the Finger Lakes, so that means they’re trying to soak it all in and make the most of it. “This past weekend, we went to four different art openings in Corning on Friday evening. Afterward, we met some friends out for a late dinner at The Cellar which is one of our favorite places to eat and to take friends from out of town. Michael and Ellen (the owners) do a wonderful job at showcasing the produce and products of the region, no matter your dietary needs. On Saturday, we took Stella Jo and Nova Dee for a walk at their favorite park and then to run errands. They love being out and about. In the afternoon, we went kayaking with the Chemung River Friends and that evening attended a Solstice wine-tasting dinner at Silver Threads Vineyard, a small but excellent bio-intensive winery on Seneca Lake. Sunday the weather was amazing, so we spent most of the day working in our garden and around our property. In the evening, we made pizzas with friends and sat around the fire for a low-key finale to the weekend. Not every weekend is so fun-filled, but a lot of the summer ones are!”

After living here for almost seven years, Brian and Mitchell are confident that whatever activity, community, or needs feed your happiness, you’ll find it in the Finger Lakes. “If you want a more urban experience with shopping and well-known restaurants, it’s easily accessible. But, the next day, you can find yourself in the woods on a hike along a waterfall after a beautiful breakfast at a little mom-and-pop cate. The variety and possibilities are truly endless.”

They added, “We think it’s important to know there are so many places to find your community in the Finger Lakes as we have through The Rockwell Museum, Elmira Little Theater, and so many other cultural organizations, festivals, and activities. The most important thing is to get out there and connect. You are not going to make the deepest community connections in the Finger Lakes from your home!”

Thank you, Mitchell and Brian, for sharing your story! Read more SoFLX stories to learn about life, work, and play in the Southern Finger Lakes.

Meet Reverend J. Gary Brinn

Reverend J. Gary Brinn is a clergyperson serving the United Church of Christ as the Pastor and Teacher at The Park Church (TPC) in Elmira.

He moved to the area two years ago, in the summer of 2021 after serving as a transitional minister in Door County, Wisconsin. Prior to that, he served at churches on the coast of Maine and on Long Island.

He knew about The Park Church and its amazing history from his prior years serving in the UCC’s New York Conference (UCCNY). “I knew little about Elmira,” he said. “I was conducting a nationwide search for my next call when UCCNY staff reached out and asked me to consider applying at The Park Church. The church was (and is) a great fit, with the added bonus of bringing me back to the East Coast, a conference I love, and near family in the Rochester area.”

Despite not knowing much about Elmira, Rev. Gary quickly learned about the impacts of de-industrialization, the 1972 flood, and the role of the carceral state in the local economy. “These concerns actually excited me,” he shared. “This was a place where you could do real ministry, and have a real impact.”

The reverend has found the first two years in the area to be non-stop learning, all confirming those first impressions. “What I did not expect was a congregation as deeply engaged and committed as I am. This has been a real blessing.”

Still, the relocation didn’t come without its challenges. “We were still in pandemic mode, with a hot housing market, and both the congregation and the outgoing interim minister wanted me here as quickly as possible.” He added, “Finding a suitable home that would be available almost immediately was a challenge. (It was my first glimpse of the need for housing justice work in Elmira.)”

Rev. Gary finally did find a home on the north side, in Elmira’s 4th City Council District, where he lives with his beloved Golden Retriever, Oscar.

In addition to community, some of the other benefits Rev. Gary feels he has received from moving here were very personal, from a sister (and now his mother) in Rochester to collegial relationships from his prior call. “I am blessed to be working with some amazing church members and community organizers. Elmira’s critical needs made it possible for me to start getting deeply involved in community organizing and leadership within a year of my arrival. Like most places, there is an ‘old boys network,’ but it has less power in a time of crisis and opportunity.”

Rev. Gary’s week centers on Sunday worship. On most other work days, he likes to head downtown for three hours in the Pastor’s Study of his historic church, where he works at a desk once used by the Reverend Thomas K. Beecher. “I may meet with congregants, plan worship, or return calls. I usually work from home in the afternoon, writing and attending meetings via Zoom. Several nights a week, there are events and meetings, some online, some at the church,” he said, adding, “These days, if I am not in a meeting, I spend an hour or so knocking on doors as I campaign for a City Council seat.”

And like most homeowners, he finds the house and yard are an ongoing project. He enjoys watching sports and has had a chance to see our local teams and last year’s NASCAR weekend at Watkins Glen. “When I’m not otherwise engaged, you might find me reading, or playing a new RPG on my Xbox.”

While Rev. Gary admits that Elmira has plenty of challenges he also feels that is absolutely the best thing about it and he has a lot of hope in the newcomers making the area their home. “Enthusiastic new residents can have an impact as entrepreneurs, community activists, and even as homeowners restoring property.”

For those looking at the Southern Finger Lakes as a potential relocation destination, Rev. Gary offers this insight: “In a time when some wish to impose their religious views on others, you will find freedom in New York State. No one is going to come between a woman and her doctor. Your LGTBTI+ kids will be as safe as they can be anywhere. There is much more to be done… and to borrow from the United Farm Workers, “Sí se puede!” (Yes, it is possible!).”

Thank you, Reverend Gary for sharing your story! Read more SoFLX stories to learn about life, work, and play in the Southern Finger Lakes.

Meet Sarah Shirley

Sarah Shirley grew up in Hammondsport, NY, and worked in Corning at Market St. Restoration which is now the Gaffer District. She attended architecture school in the 90s and after graduation, moved to New York City where she spent the next 30 years working in the fashion and media industries. Eventually, Sarah decided to move back home, and today, she lives in Corning with her Italian partner, Salvatore.

Because Sarah’s parents still live along Keuka Lake, her move back home was a lot easier than most. “I stayed at my parents’ lake house for a while. Then I found a sweet, completely renovated pied a terre on Market St…and the process was so easy because the building owner is the coolest person I have ever met in my life.”

Sarah did have some concerns about moving back, especially after living in a very dynamic city, working in such a creative industry, and traveling all over the world. “However,” she said, “I find the culture in Corning to be quite inclusive and creative. There are a lot of people here who care and want to make a difference.”

In 2019, Sarah opened a temporary clothing line pop-up in Hammondsport called Mersur, which she has since turned into a permanent store. “I really had no intention of having a permanent store,” she said, “and wanted to focus on an online shop, but the store, my talents, and my offerings seemed to be a hit so I decided to sign a year-round lease.” This summer will be Mersur’s 5th summer on Keuka Lake and Sarah has plans to open a Mersur outpost on Market St.

Still, for all the things NYC offered Sarah, she says, “There is definitely more space here and I love the convenience of the simpler things, like having a parking spot right behind where I live,” a big plus since, she added, “In New York City, parking is expensive or you may need to park far from where you live if you are fortunate enough to have a car.” Sarah also loves Wegmans. “Actually, I am obsessed with Wegmans and very happy to have a store right down the street. Grocery shopping in NYC can be very difficult.” She also enjoys seeing childhood friends and having more family nearby. “I do miss NYC a lot but I am lucky because I usually go there at least once a month for business and pleasure.” But closer to home, Sarah says she has more room to paint and for her creative outlets.

While many things in the region are familiar to Sarah, there are a few changes she is enjoying. “The businesses on Market St. have all changed over and there’s tons of hair salons which is cool. I also am really surprised at how all the wineries and breweries have grown and enlarged. There are also a lot more diverse restaurants, but I’d still love more restaurants to go to!”

As a small business owner, Sarah says she finds it difficult at times to get out as much as she’d like. Most of her days, she says consist of “Coffee, walk, work, dinner, walk, repeat.” But still, she has fun routines that appeal to her more eclectic soul, such as painting with a group of architect friends online on Wednesday nights, cooking with her partner, and connecting with others around food, which they both enjoy. “I love to go to Keuka Lake and have dinner on the deck of our family lake home. Walking is amazing here in the Finger Lakes and there are tons of places to explore.” She added, “ I also love going to all the farms and buying flowers, picking fresh produce, and working with the local Amish to create custom upholstered furniture and pillows. Keuka Lake is where I spend most of my time in the summer, while most mornings or evenings, I’m walking Market St. for inspiration and exercise. If I have time off, I love to explore other lake towns with my partner.”

For those looking to explore the area, Sarah recommends, that they enjoy nature and all that it has to offer. “There are the lakes to explore, miles of trails, tons of waterfalls. In addition to the outdoors, Sarah recommends that people who are thinking of relocating work on building community by getting involved in something they love, such as art, yoga, music, self-improvement work, or by hosting dinner parties and expanding their social circle through meet-ups with like-minded individuals.

Sarah notes, “The world is your oyster, so make the best of where you are at any given time. Bring your talents and lead with your strengths. Invest in your relationships and in your community and your life will be very rich.” She adds, “The area has a lot to offer if you are curious enough to explore. I also think there is a lot of untapped potential of the area and still a hidden gem to other more popular urban areas.”

Thank you, Sarah for sharing your story! Read more SoFLX stories to learn about life, work, and play in the Southern Finger Lakes.

Meet The Weber Family

The Weber family – Margareta, Dennis, and their daughter Emma, moved to Corning’s Market St. from Germany, close to Frankfurt, on August 12, 2021.

Dennis was hired by Corning Inc. in Germany in 2019. He visited the area once in 2019, stayed for two weeks, and told Margareta how beautiful the little town is. In early 2021, they were offered to temporarily relocate to Corning as expatriates, where Dennis works as a Sustainability Communications Manager. “That was exciting; we did not have to think about it very long and decided we wanted to come to Corning,” Dennis recalls.

Dennis loved the area clearly, but Margareta and Emma had never been, and Dennis was concerned about whether they would like it. “As a family, we can only be as happy as our daughter Emma,” Dennis said, “so Emma’s well-being was our greatest concern.” They wondered about all the things parents of a young child would be worried about: Would she adapt to the new situation? Would she quickly pick up English as a second language? The pandemic was still ongoing; everybody wore masks. Would that keep Emma from learning English?

When they agreed to come to Corning, they understood that Margareta would not be allowed to work due to visa regulations. As an energetic doer, they wondered how she would cope with the new situation. “That is why we chose Market Street over a country residence,” Margareta said, “to stay close to where Dennis works, so we can have lunch together and tackle any upcoming issues without delay.”

All concerns aside, they were excited to come to the United States. They had visited the States multiple times, and Dennis had spent years here. “We were excited to see New York City again and Niagara Falls. But most of all, we were excited to live in America and not be limited to, let’s say, two weeks of vacation. We wanted to travel and explore.”

Since their move, they say so many positive changes have happened. “We love it here in Corning. All worries about how we would adapt are gone,” they said, adding, “The duration of our stay was extended from one year to three years. We are very happy about that extension, as there is still much to explore.”
Margareta was granted eligibility to work, exciting news as that was a missing piece to what they consider their family’s luck. She now works at the Heathered Grey boutique on Market Street and is very engaged in sharing and promoting the family’s Corning experience on Instagram.

Emma is thriving in what the Webers describe as Corning’s extraordinary educational institution. “ItsyBitsy Inspirations on Sunset Drive granted the best possible start for Emma’s American journey,” Margareta said. “She picked up English and reached the level of US-born children her age fascinatingly quickly.” Now Emma is in Kindergarten at Carder Elementary, and her parents say her happiness with her school is mirrored in her daily excitement to learn and looking forward to the next day of school. “From our perspective as parents, Emma’s integration could not have gone any better.”

“After a while, when we started to visit places the second or third time, we realized that we had arrived as residents,” Dennis said, adding, “Corning now has a calming certainty about it as our home.”

The Webers cannot say they had tough challenges to manage upon their arrival, partly because of the tremendous support from Corning Inc.’s global mobility team. “Due to COVID, we couldn’t visit to see and decide about our housing options,” Dennis said, “and the visa process was certainly more challenging during the pandemic.” But once they were here, Dennis describes that the professional support and the warm-hearted, open arms of Corning’s people helped them settle in and feel good. “Believe it or not, Corning has a German community of maybe a dozen families. Our fellow Germans made and still make our Corning experience more pleasant!”

The family has found that Corning is safe, offers excellent education, and has a remarkable portfolio of activities and events, especially given its size. “People are friendly and willing to help,” Margareta said, “Living on Market Street allows us to be in the middle of most of Corning’s excitements.” She added, “We love the YMCA with all its opportunities. We enjoy high school sports and theater plays and love how Americans make culture, sports, and events easily accessible.”

They also feel a comparison seems unfair since they left their German home during COVID. “We had a great life in Germany; nothing is better or worse there, only different.”

During the week, their daily routines differ little from other families – work, school, afternoon and evening courses, and story time. During the weekends or holidays, they are known to be extraordinarily active explorers. “Emma has seen 17(!) states since we arrived. We have visited NYC four times, Niagara three times, Washington D.C., Boston, and Charlotte each twice, Buffalo, and Rochester. We spent a week each in Florida and Kentucky.”

But they equally enjoy a stroll on Market Street, preferably during one of the beautiful events, which is always appreciated. Centerway Bridge and its painted maze is a favorite spot in town.

Other favorites for them are the drives to Watkins Glen, Ithaca, Wellsboro, the PA Grand Canyon, and the many lakes. “We love Keuka Lake State Park, hiking the Glen, or visiting Harris Hill. We take our boat to Lake Cowanesque, Hammond Lake, or Keuka Lake.”

Dennis loves American football and visits CPP High games and the magic Penn State games at Beaver Stadium. No stadium in Germany can hold 110,000 spectators. Dennis also started hunting and takes Emma fishing.

For those considering relocating to the area, the Webers invite folks to come and see how special Corning is. “Those who visited us do not need further convincing.”

They added that the portfolio of activities, events, and institutions exceeded their expectations. “No need to worry about any small country town’s danger of boredom.”

They also agree that Corning is an excellent place to raise kids. “The town is safe. We have no concerns when walking Market Street at any time of day or night. Our daughter is thriving in an excellent school. Currently, the teacher-student ratio in Emma’s class is 1-16. The town is taken care of. Parks, roads, buildings, and facilities are in good shape. Corning has not suffered the consequences of an economic downturn.”

They added, “We love Corning and its extraordinary offer to our young family. Come and see. The advantages are obvious once you are here!”

Thank you, Dennis, Margareta, and Emma, for sharing your story! Read more SoFLX stories to learn about life, work, and play in the Southern Finger Lakes.

Meet Meg Hopkins

Meg Hopkins, a Penn Yan native, grew up playing lacrosse, which in Penn Yan is a big deal. The sport provided Meg the opportunity to attend the University of Vermont in Burlington and, she says, really launched her to where she is today. 

“After college graduation and a summer road trip around the US, I moved to Nashville, TN in the beginning of 2016,” she said. “Here is where I jump-started my career in marketing obtaining a  position with the Williamson County Chamber of Commerce and Office of Economic  Development. After one year, I was managing the Marketing Department on my own.”

Even though Meg was loving her career, something was still missing. After spending the weekend at Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival with her partner, Eddie Rivera, they decided they both needed to travel. So, in July 2019, they sold everything they owned in Nashville and bought one-way tickets to Koh Samui Island in Thailand.  

“At the beginning of February 2020, Eddie and I found ourselves in Split, Croatia. As we all know now, this is when the pandemic started to really hit Europe.” She added, “Thankfully, Eddie, being a retired Army Veteran, already had a plan to get us back to the United States.”  

With just their backpacks and the clothes on their backs, they landed back in the States in the middle of February 2020. They stayed in Florida for about two months and then decided to come back up to the Finger Lakes and stay with Meg’s family.

This move would prove to be longer term than they originally thought. “Being a native to the Finger Lakes and with a worldwide pandemic going on, Eddie and I decided to lay low and head back to Penn Yan safely in April 2020,” she said. “It was one of the best decisions that we made!” 

Ultimately, they decided to stay in the Finger Lakes and purchase their home in Geneva.  

For Meg, having grown up in the Finger Lakes her whole life, she was nervous about the opportunities available. Upon returning to the States, she reached out to Nashville, TN business owner, and asked if he was looking to hire someone remotely. “Thankfully he was!” 

Nevertheless, Meg was nervous that if she didn’t find something remote, or based out of a larger city, that she wouldn’t have had another opportunity like it in Upstate New York. However, after being back for 3 years, she sees that that is not the case. She shared, “There are tons of opportunities for young professionals.”  

Meg found that the small-town feel that she grew up with remains the same, adding, “Having had so many new experiences and traveled extensively, I can tell you that that feeling is unmatched by most.  Growing up I always thought of it as a hindrance – a hindrance to my growth, a hindrance to becoming me – but now I see it as a positive.” 

She now describes the small-town feel as warm and welcoming and finds that it has evolved much in the last ten years. “The growth that we’re seeing is intentional and that’s truly important to this area,” Meg said. “Having worked for an Office of Economic Development in the richest county of Tennessee,  I’ve seen how growth can be overwhelming to its locals. However, here in the Finger Lakes,  we’re seeing the kind of growth that works for all of its citizens, not just some. Small businesses are coming back and thriving. Larger companies are calling this place home and revamping their work culture to fit what’s most important to the people they hire.”  

At first though, she said it was difficult coming back to the States, let alone the Finger Lakes area. But, after seeing what she describes as some amazing places, she was able to look at the Finger Lakes with a new sense of appreciation. “This place is absolutely beautiful, and it made coming back here much easier. Plus,” she said, “the intentional growth I mentioned above, also helped. I was worried that I would move back here with my partner, and there would be nothing for us to do. Today, we’re thankful for the businesses that have reinvented themselves here in the Finger Lakes and the new businesses that have opened their doors based on the passions the owners have.” 

Today, Meg owns Simple Marketing LLC, based out of Geneva.  

“When we first bought our home here in Geneva and I really started to explore, I noticed how most small businesses and organizations don’t have the access nor the resources to fully promote themselves. At the time I was working remotely for a small digital marketing firm based in Nashville and I was astonished and some of the invoices we sent out.” It was then that she realized she could make her skills accessible to local businesses and organizations that really need them. So, in April 2021, she took a leap and started taking on small clients, helping with all things digital marketing from website design to social media management. By May  2021, she knew that she could do this on her own.  

Some of the advantages that Meg has found to living in the area as opposed to a larger city is the connectivity, which she says is unlike anything she has ever witnessed. “I have yet to market myself or my business. All my clients I work with have been sent to me through word-of-mouth. It  always amazes me when I get an email or a text from someone that says, ‘So and so  recommended your services.'”  

She added, “You get the feeling that everyone wants to see everyone succeed. That everyone works hard to uplift others. I am beyond thankful for the small community of people that I have met that continue to uplift me and my business. It never goes unnoticed and makes you want to do the same for everyone else. “

Some of the ways that Meg and Eddie like to spend their time include taking their dog on long walks, walking to downtown Geneva, and having lunch or walking to the waterfront. At night, they typically spend time on Linden Street at their favorite bar/restaurant, Microclimate. “The owners of Microclimate are amazing, and we love experiencing what they have to offer.”

For anyone looking to relocate to that area Meg says, “Give it a chance. Even though the towns in the Finger Lakes are small, the people, businesses, and organizations make up for it. I’ve seen the growth here and it truly is unmatched. The atmosphere still encourages you to  slow down while also providing you with constant opportunities to do something fun and  different.” 

She also added, “The biggest thing that you’re going to get when you relocate here is the community. Prepare to start connecting with people you normally wouldn’t. Prepare to start connecting with people in ways you normally wouldn’t. The sense of community and collaboration that you get here is open to everyone if you just accept it!” 

Thank you, Meg, for sharing your story with us! Read more SoFLX stories to learn about life, work, and play in the Southern Finger Lakes.