Patricia (Owens) Gessner, Class of 1971

With degrees from SUNY Fredonia and Western Connecticut State University, "Patty" Gessner could have taken her show on the road. Instead, she returned to Port Jervis to raise her family and give back to her hometown. Patty has been a member of the Broome Street Traveling All Star Band since 1988. That same year she and her husband opened Al's Music Shop. There she offers lessons to children of all ages. She's taught Sunday school, volunteered for a local food pantry, and has run a preschool musical play group. Her true blessing in life is her job at the Salvation Army Thrift Store. Patty Gessner has dedicated her life to helping others.