The Stahley family boasts a rich and colorful legacy that weaves through the vibrant tapestry of Bemus Point. Their story is one of deep-rooted connections and memorable moments within this charming village. Submitted photo

BEMUS POINT- The Stahley family has a long history in the Village of Bemus Point. One famous tradition is the yard sign that counts down the days until the tourists go home. The aforementioned sign was started by Robert (Bob) Stahley, who has since passed away.

“This is the stuff legends are made of,” remarked Jake Stahley, son of John and Maureen Stahley, grandson of Bob Stahley, and a current resident of Bemus Point, where he lives with his wife and children. “I remember my grandfather used to put up a sign that displayed a countdown from the day the tourists arrived until their last day in the village.”

John Stahley, the current patriarch of the Stahley family and a lifelong resident of Bemus Point, recounts, “The sign sparked a lot of discussion here. Some locals enjoyed it, while many tourists were indifferent, with a few even vandalizing it. My father didn’t mind; he’d just create another sign and keep the countdown going. It was all in good fun–his way of engaging with people and sharing his humor.”

Furthermore, other villagers echoed John’s sentiments and shared cherished memories of the ‘countdown sign’ and Bob himself.

“Oh. …The sign,” said Bemus Point Mayor Jeff Molnar. “Some loved it, others didn’t want it, but it was consistent around here, year after year – just like Bob was.”

Following Bob Stahley’s death in 2004, many have wondered if the countdown would return to the renowned front yard of the family’s multigenerational estate on Lakeside Drive in the Point.

“No,” said Maureen Stahley firmly, a retired schoolteacher and current member of the Bemus Point Board of Trustees, regarding the revival of the famous ‘count down sign.’

Bemus Point is characterized as a quintessential lakeside community, as described by Jake Stahley. It features a vibrant atmosphere filled with diverse and engaging residents, reminiscent of a cinematic portrayal where unique personalities thrive on their quirkiness, including those of his late grandfather.

“Bemus Point feels like a movie, filled with diverse individuals, each with their own traits, yet forming a cohesive community,” he remarked. “My grandfather is one of them, and his countdown clock has become legendary. My question is, who will be the next legends to follow in the footsteps of my grandfather and father?”

Molnar noted that other legendary events in Bemus Point’s history have included a unique boat race, where pick-up trucks towed rowboats down the center of the village road. Additionally, there were bed races, featuring beds with wheels racing down the main thoroughfare, along with various other quirky events.

“I recall the bed races being an event organized by a graduating class of seniors,” remarked Josh Stahley. “My grandfather, along with the entire community of Bemus Point, are truly down-to-earth, good people. After returning from World War II, my grandfather went straight to work and started a family. He would give you the shirt off his back. Although he was a bit gruff, he had a great sense of humor and was quite funny.”

Echoing Josh’s thoughts, his younger brother Luke added, “As I recall, the sign read ‘terrorist, go home.’ It appeared to be a clever play on words. My grandfather, like the men of his generation and my father’s, was a devoted family man. Each Labor Day, my grandparents would sit beside that sign; Grandpa would savor a glass of whisky and water while smoking his cigarettes, waving farewell to the departing tourists.”

Josh Stahley said, “Bemus Point is a small, friendly village with a close-knit community. Many stories about events, people, and unique happenings shape its identity. Most importantly, we take pride in being a welcoming and family-friendly place.”

Jake Stahley confidently stated, “at this point, nothing surprises me about this village; it’s brimming with fascinating characters straight out of a movie.”