Our team is committed to raising up the youth of Elmira.
WILLIAM E. FREEMAN
Executive Director
William A. Freeman is a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience advising both U.S. and foreign companies.
Having spent much of his career working in Asia and the Middle East, he is the ideal professional to assist Avalon’s overseas clients as they expand in the U.S. and our North American clients source product and expand their presence in these critical regions.
William E. Freeman has been since 2004 to Present an Operations, Logistics and Management Consultant with Avalon Net Worth (NYC), a boutique Investment Bank. Avalon operates primarily in the $25 million to under $1 billion marketplace. Bill has aided emerging market firms acquire equity, mezzanine debt and lines of credit in the range of $25 to $50 million and has brought in International Consulting assignments.
RITA MCCABE
Treasurer
Rita McCabe: A Dedicated Professional and Community Leader
Rita McCabe’s journey is a testament to dedication, expertise, and community commitment. A proud graduate of Southside High School in Elmira, she pursued her passion for nursing at the Arnot Ogden School of Nursing, earning her B.S./RN. Further advancing her knowledge and skills, Rita obtained a Master’s Degree in Nursing from Syracuse University, laying a strong foundation for her professional career.
Before stepping into management, Rita took on significant responsibilities that showcased her leadership and versatility. Notably, she served as Head of Security and Director of Risk Management, roles that demand vigilance, strategic thinking, and the ability to safeguard organizational interests. Her promotion to management was a natural progression, reflecting her competence and commitment.
Beyond her professional achievements, Rita has been deeply involved in volunteer work, enriching her community in numerous ways. She has held influential positions such as member of the Board’s Executive Committee, Officer and Trustee of Able 2, and Vice President of the Steele Memorial Library Foundation of Chemung County. Additionally, her volunteer efforts extend to Bampa’s House in Corning and Chemung County Public Health, where she actively contributes her time and expertise.
Rita McCabe embodies the spirit of service through her vast experience and impactful contributions. Her blend of professional excellence and community involvement continues to inspire and drive positive change, making her an invaluable asset to both her field and her community.
MARTIN CHALK
Board Member
Marty Chalk is currently serving his third term as a Chemung County Legislator. Marty is on the important Aviation and Budget Committees, the re-districting committee and Chairs the Personnel Committee.
Marty Chalk is a lifelong resident of Elmira and Chemung County. He is the father of two children, two stepchildren, and the grandfather to six grandchildren. Marty is very active in the community, serving as the President of the Elmira Water Board, President of the Chemung County Sports Hall of Fame, President of St. Peter and Paul’s Cemetery, and most recently the President and Founding member of the Friends of the Elmira Civil War Prison Camp. Marty also serves as a Board Member of the Chemung County Historical Society and the Cystic Fibrosis Taste of the Tiers Committee.
Marty was recognized as the recipient of the 2019 Lifetime Achievement Award at the annual Twin Tiers Sports Awards Banquet.
JUDY MORDUE
Secretary
Judith “Judy” Mordue, the younger sister of the Honorable Norman A. Mordue, dedicated many years of service to her community through her professional work and volunteer efforts. Over the course of her career and volunteer service, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to public service, the arts, and the well-being of those around her.
Judy served as a legal secretary in the Chemung County District Attorney’s Office from January 2000 until her retirement on December 31, 2016. Throughout her career, she held a variety of positions, beginning her professional journey with Marine Midland Bank, where she developed strong organizational and customer service skills that would serve her well throughout her career.
Judy also devoted nearly two decades of service as an Election Inspector, contributing to the integrity of the local election process. Continuing her dedication and commitment to public service, she is currently in her fourth season volunteering with the AARP Tax-Aide Program, assisting community members with free tax preparation services.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Judy has been deeply involved in the arts and community service. She is an active member of the Elmira Little Theatre, where she has served in several leadership roles, including President, and has performed in numerous stage productions.
Outside of her professional and volunteer endeavors, Judy enjoys a variety of recreational and social activities. She is an avid bowler and enjoys participating in trivia competitions and playing euchre, activities that reflect her enthusiasm for friendly competition and social connection. Above all, she is deeply devoted to her family and friends and is known for her warmth, kindness, and loyalty. She also has a lifelong love for animals, particularly dogs and horses.
DONALD QUICK JR.
Board Member
Partner Emeritus, MMB+CO
Donald G Quick, Jr., CPA is Partner Emeritus with MMB+CO of Elmira.
As a graduate of RIT, Don is based in the Elmira office with more than 40 years in the accounting profession. Due to his expansive history with the Firm, he is able to provide assurance, tax and consulting services to many closely held companies in various industries. Don is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the New York State Society of CPAs and is highly involved in the community.
He serves on several boards and committees, including serving on the Arnot Health, Historic Elmira Inc, Healthcare trustees of New York State and Southern Tier Economic Growth, Inc. boards.
Mr. Quick preciously served on the boards of Chemung County Historical Society Inc, Five Rivers Council of Boy Scouts of America, and various other community boards.
KAREN G. FELTER
Board Member
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Karen G. Felter is an attorney providing legal services covering Civil Litigation: Defense, Appellate, Business Litigation, Civil Litigation: Plaintiff, Employment Litigation: Defense and Insurance Coverage.
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Karen Felter, who practices law in Syracuse, New York, was selected to Super Lawyers for 2017 – 2025. This peer designation is awarded only to a select number of accomplished attorneys in each state. The Super Lawyers selection process takes into account peer recognition, professional achievement in legal practice, and other cogent factors.
Prior to becoming an attorney, she studied at Albany Law School. She graduated in 1992. After passing the bar exam, she was admitted to legal practice in 1993 and joined Smith, Sovik, Kendrick & Sugnet P.C. as an Associate.
In 1998 she accepted an opportunity to become Principal Law Clerk to The Hon. Norman Mordue where she remained until 2014 when she rejoined Smith, Sovik et al as a Partner.
While working for Judge Mordue Karen researched and wrote hundreds of decisions and assisted in numerous criminal and civil jury trials on issues including employment discrimination, civil rights, federal agency regulatory matters, patent and copyright disputes, and all other types of civil litigation falling under the court’s diversity of jurisdiction.