By Kate Bartlett
The Elysian Center will be celebrating a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony as an Agritourism Destination on November 17 at 9am. Located at 4578 Johnson Road in Bemus Point, The Elysian Center is creating a welcoming, sustainable destination that brings together equestrian experiences, agriculture, wellness, recreation, lodging, events, and tourism to strengthen individuals, enrich the community, and support the local economy. Join the community in celebrating this exciting new endeavor.
Situated on a scenic 70-acre property, The Elysian Center is a multi-use rural development and agritourism destination in Chautauqua County. Designed to blend agriculture, hospitality, recreation, and community programming, the campus features a barn, pastures, three miles of walking trails, and both indoor and outdoor arenas. It is a newly developing regional destination that hosted its public open house on October 1, 2026.
The facility operates as a collaborative commercial enterprise working alongside A Gentle Path Foundation, Inc., an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit formerly known as A Stable Home Foundation, Inc. The Foundation provides charitable community and equine-assisted programs on the property. The ribbon cutting ceremony is a public celebration of The Center’s dedication and involvement as an agritourism destination.
A Gentle Path Foundation is a Bemus Point-based nonprofit established approximately five years ago. Its programs serve children and adults of varying abilities, including individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as seniors and veterans. Its work emphasizes equine-assisted learning, life skills, wellness, and inclusive community experiences.
Susan Tilley has been involved with A Gentle Path Foundation since its inception and is the current Secretary of the organization. “We are excited about this collaboration,” remarks Susan. “The Elysian Center is providing incredible opportunities for the community. In combination with its nonprofits, it serves as a platform for many equestrian and agricultural programs in the area, and we’re excited for what’s to come.”
Both entities have been in discussions with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County and 4-H about future partnerships. Discussions with Cornell Cooperative Extension have identified possibilities for agriculture, horticulture, animal science, equine education, and 4-H youth development, classrooms, and meeting space at the 70-acre property. These plans remain under discussion. Representatives from Cornell and 4-H, along with elected officials and small business representatives, are expected at the ribbon cutting ceremony.
The Equestrian Center is a major focus of The Elysian Center, offering state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor riding arenas, horse shows, clinics, and equestrian events, such as mounted shooting exhibitions and family-oriented horsemanship days.
The property is also an event space for weddings and other events. Its large scenic venue space is equipped to host private celebrations, galas, and corporate retreats against a backdrop of pastoral views and open acreage. Planned on-site cabins and private retreat accommodations are designed to let visitors stay overnight immersed in Western New York’s natural environment.
The Elysian Center, Inc. is led by President Mark Campanella and Vice Presidents Elisa Campanella and Roxanne Skeels, who also serves as Treasurer. Mark brings more than 15 years of commercial real estate experience and serves as Vice President of Sinatra & Co. Real Estate. Elisa, a former teacher and athletic scholarship recipient, brings a background in education and community involvement. Roxanne has more than 30 years of executive leadership experience, including founding and leading technology consulting firm iQdata Services, Inc., and serves as volunteer Executive Director of A Gentle Path Foundation.
On Saturday, November 28, from 10am-5pm, The Elysian Center will host two confirmed events: an Equine Trail Sports Obstacle Challenge and a Tack Swap. The Tack Swap, held in collaboration with 4-H and A Gentle Path Foundation, will offer opportunities to buy, sell, and exchange equestrian supplies. Vendor spaces are $20 for a 10-by-10-foot area, with proceeds benefiting 4-H and A Gentle Path Foundation. Food and refreshments will be available. For Tack Swap vendor information, contact Susan Tilley at 716-912-8156.
The name “Elysian” evokes a place of extraordinary beauty, peace, and happiness. For the leadership team, the Elysian experience is about connecting people with nature, horses, learning, and one another: “More than a destination — a place to connect, discover, and belong.”
Join in commemorating The Elysian Center at the ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday, November 17 at 9am. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, follow on social media and visit elysiancenterny.com.