Sen. Helming Toasts To American-Made, Locally-Made Tanks in Geneva

Senator Pamela Helming (R,C,I – Canandaigua) today visited Vance Metal Fabricators Inc., a Geneva-based, large-capacity metal fabricator and weld shop, to toast three new 2,500-gallon stainless steel tanks that the company manufactured for Lakewood Vineyards in Watkins Glen. With several Vance Metal officials joining Senator Helming for the toast, the tanks traveled by truck later Thursday about 30 miles from Geneva to Watkins Glen for an event to commemorate the installation of the American-made, locally-made tanks at the winery.

“What an exciting celebration this was for these products that were made right here in Geneva, New York – American-made and locally-made. It is also great that these tanks were produced for a company that is also based in the Finger Lakes region. I encourage other local businesses to support one another by buying local and buying American whenever possible. I enjoyed visiting Vance Metal and seeing the outstanding work that they do,” Senator Helming said.

Founded in 1880 by James R. Vance as the Vance Boiler Works in Geneva, Vance Metal works in industries ranging from heavy manufacturing to technology to agriculture. The company built its first winery tank in the 1990s and has supplied Lakewood Vineyards for the past decade.

"We would like to thank Senator Helming and her staff for touring our facility and supporting New York manufacturers. It was truly a pleasure to meet her and to share what we do at Vance Metal Fabricators. We have a long, rich, proud history that dates back to 1880. We wouldn’t be where we are today if it wasn’t for our extraordinary employees and loyal customers like Chris Stamp and Lakewood Vineyards. We truly appreciate Chris’s buy local approach and the positive impact it has on our employees and their families,” said Pat Farrington, Marketing/Sales Manager for Vance Metal.

In addition to toasting the tanks, Senator Helming toured the manufacturing facility on Gambee Road in Geneva, where she learned how the company that started operations in 1880 has expanded and evolved over time. It now manufactures tanks for wineries, breweries, and distilleries throughout New York State and more than 20 states around the country. She also talked with Vance Metal officials about what she can do in the New York State Senate to support them and similar companies that serve as both small businesses and manufacturing facilities.

“I am proud to support local, small businesses and manufacturing facilities that employ many residents of our community and strengthen our local economy. I will continue to look for ways to advocate on their behalf however and wherever I can. I thank Joe Hennessy, Chris Jennings, and the Vance Metal staff for hosting me,” Senator Helming said.

Carried by tractor trailer from Geneva to Watkins Glen, the three tanks were adorned with banners displaying the Vance Metal and Lakewood Vineyards logos and raising awareness of buying local. Once they arrived at the winery, the tanks were toasted again.

“Chris Stamp, at Lakewood Vineyards, along with many of our friends in the food and beverage world, feel strongly about supporting local manufacturers. We greatly appreciate Chris’ continued commitment to locally made products and Vance Metal Fabricators. American-made matters,” said Joe Hennessy, Vance Metal President.

“We do business locally whenever possible. Whether it’s buying local wine or stainless steel tanks, the economic multipliers raise the tide for everyone in the Finger Lakes,” said Chris Stamp, President and Winemaker at Lakewood Vineyards.

Senator Tom O’Mara (R,C,I-Big Flats) represents Lakewood Vineyards as part of the 58^th District and also serves as a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee.

“It’s fantastic to help celebrate this cooperation between two outstanding Finger Lakes industries working together to strengthen the American-made, locally produced movement. 
This high-quality partnership continues to showcase the diversity and strength of Finger Lakes agriculture and manufacturing,” Senator O’Mara said.
 

Senator Helming represents the 54^th Senate District, which consists of Seneca and Wayne Counties, parts of Cayuga and Ontario Counties, and the towns of Lansing and Webster. For more information, please visit Senator Helming’s website, or follow @SenatorHelming on Facebook or Twitter.

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