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YOUR HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER • www.TiogaWeb.com Volume 31

FEBRUARY 2016

Owego Elementary Homecoming

Number 2

Tioga Downs Wins Industry Awards

The results are in and Tioga Downs won in multiple categories for the December Best of Slots issue of Strictly Slots, the monthly magazine that highlights casinos and new slot machines and video poker games. Tioga Downs received two first place awards and seven total awards out of 18 categories. “The hard working and dedicated staff – from the top to the bottom – is why we were able to bring home these recognitions,” Tioga Downs Owner Jeff Gural said. “I would like to express my sincere appreciation for all guests, staff and the region as a whole that have helped make Tioga Downs the premier entertainment destination in the Southern Tier.” The casino placed first in two categories, “Casino Where You Feel Luckiest” and “Best Comps.” It also took home two second place prizes, “Best Nickel Slots” and “Best 50-cent Slots.” Strictly Slots officials also named Tioga Downs to three third place wins in the “Best Video Slots,” “Best Progressive Slots”

and “Best Slot Club Promotions” categories. Strictly Slots is a national monthly magazine aimed at slot machine and video poker players. The magazine focuses on upcoming, new slot machines and video poker games, as well as casino amenities. Strictly Slots features regular articles from notable gambling authors, including Bob Dancer, Jeffrey Compton, Frank Legato and Frank Scoblete. Strictly Slots is published by the Casino Publishing Group, which also publishes Casino Player magazine, America’s most popular gaming magazine. Typical Strictly Slots topics include the following: history of slot machine, the principle of slot machine work, new strategies for playing video poker, casino reviews and latest casino news. Tioga Downs offers live harness racing, video lottery terminals, video poker and electronic roulette. A variety of eateries are also part of the current entertainment complex. For more information on Tioga Downs, please visit www.tiogadowns.com.

Tioga Chamber Annual Dinner - February 11 Winter Beach Party!

Students from the Owego Elementary School were welcomed home by hundreds of parents and members of the community. The students were displaced from the school during the flood of 2011 and have been bused to Endicott to attend Linnaeus West Elementary

School. On January 6th a convoy of busses lead by fire and police vehicles paraded their way from the Owego Treadway to the new Owego Elementary School, being greeted by hundreds of onlookers for their first day back in Owego.

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The Tioga County Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual dinner, community awards and silent auction on Thursday, February 11, at the Owego Treadway Inn. This year’s theme is “Winter Beach Party.” Cocktails begin at 5:30 pm, with dinner at 6:30 pm. A Silent Auction will continue throughout the evening with items donated by chamber businesses and supporters. This annual event is always popular and well-attended. As always, the highlight of the evening will be the presenta-

tion of the Community Awards. Special recognition is given to those who have made a significant contribution to the community. The “Winter Beach Party” theme will remind remind guests that the cold of the season doesn’t matter. Leave the winter doldrums behind and enjoy the party with music by “Outer Reef.” The cost of the dinner is $40 per person. Reservations and payment are required by February 4, 2016. For more information and reservations, contact the Tioga County Chamber of Commerce at 687-2020.

VALENTINE Package $59.95! 7830 Rt 434, Apalachin (607) 245-6139 or 625-2332

FEBRUARY 2016

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

PAGE 2

Young Adults Learn Work Skills in Apprenticeship Program

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY Show your Valentine how much they are loved & appreciated Bring your valentine to the Blue Dolphin Restaurant

Enjoy a complementary glass of wine with our Valentine Dinner Specials 625-3830

Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE), Tioga County has teamed up with Broome-Tioga Workforce New York to provide 18 to 24 year old at risk young adults the opportunity to participate in a “Youth Apprenticeship Training Program” to learn valuable workplace skills. In accordance with the Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA), the program assists out of school youth, 18 to 24 years old, to overcome barriers to employment; such as high school dropout, offender, etc. The primary objective is to provide these at risk young adults with the necessary skills and knowledge to secure gainful employment; many of whom enter the program without basic job/academic skills and a lack of job history. Cara Zampi, CCE Youth Employment Educator, provides one-on-one Career Placement & Work Readiness classes for at risk young adults. During the youth orientation with the participants Cara will create an Employment Plan for each of them. The goal is to place the young adult at a worksite that will align with their employment goal. During the past month, one participant, Robbie (shown in photo), stated that he enjoys working with his hands

and wants to learn more about carpentry and/or welding. Robbie was placed at a worksite, Curtis Custom Woodworking in Owego, owned by Don Curtis, for an eight-week period. After Robbie completed the Apprenticeship Program, Curtis had many positive things to say about his work. “Robbie’s work ethic made him one of the best workers that I have ever had. He wasn’t afraid to ask questions and was very eager to learn,” said Curtis. In these difficult economic times many business owners agree that maintaining a high staff load is difficult and hard to afford. By engaging young adults through the Youth Apprenticeship Training Program businesses find it is economical and a good opportunity to help young adults learn valuable skills and build workplace experiences. Businesses participating in the program are helping to ensure that young adults have the skills necessary to be successful in the local workforce. To learn more about the Youth Apprenticeship Training Program or to refer a young adult to the program, contact Cara Zampi at Cornell Cooperative Extension, Tioga County at 687-4020 or visit tioga.cce.cornell.edu.

Tioga County's

COMMUNITY PRESS

Volume 31 Number 2 February 2016 © 2016 Published by Brown Enterprise And Marketing 7830 State Route 434 Apalachin, New York 13732 Phone (607) 72-PRESS or (607) 625-2222 E-mail: press@tiogaweb.com www.TiogaWeb.com

Publisher/Editor ---------- Fred J. Brown Jr.

Published monthly RECEIVED BY MORE PEOPLE IN TIOGA COUNTY THAN ANY OTHER NEWSPAPER • The Community Press, nor its advertisers are not responsible for typographical errors in articles or ads. • Submitted articles are not guaranteed placement but are printed on a space available basis. THIS PAPER IS FREE. IT IS PAID FOR BY THE ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT THEM

TELL THEM YOU SAW IT IN THE

COMMUNITY PRESS www.CommunityPress.us

FEBRUARY 2016

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

Italian Dinner to Benefit Apalachin Library February 21 at Ransom Steele

PAGE 3

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An Italian dinner benefit for the Apalachin Library will be held on Sunday, February 21, at Ransom Steele Tavern, 552 Main Street in Apalachin. The Italian dinner includes Lasagna with meat or meatless baked ziti, antipasto salad, garlic knots, dessert, coffee, tea, soda, water. A cash bar will also be available. Dinner seatings are at Noon, 1:00,

2:00, and 3:00 pm. Takeout is also available. Entertainment will be provided by banjo player Rob Siegers and singer/ songwriter Marian Tewksbury. Tickets are $15 for adults, and $10 for children, and must be purchased in advance at Apalachin Library, 719 Main Street in Apalachin.

• Herbal Body Wraps • Paraffin “Vita C” facials •

Lawnmowers, Small Engines - Repaired Alternators, Starters, Generators, Motors - Rebuilt

TIME TO GET YOUR

SNOWBLOWER CHECKED OUT AND READY FOR WINTER

Lake St. Building to House Investment Services, Upscale Apartments, and New ATM Tioga State Bank’s Lake Street Investment Services office, in space at 18 Lake Street, Owego, is currently being renovated to provide office space for two investment management professionals. The building will also house four upscale apartments and a 24/7 depositautomated ATM. According to Tioga State Bank’s President and CEO Robert M. Fisher, “We are pleased to be involved with this restoration-improvement project in one of our core neighborhoods. The Lake Street development is a harbinger of good things to come for this area, we think. For people to be able to meet with

local investment services representatives in a newly renovated space like this, right on Lake Street, is a real plus for our community. The added convenience of a 24/7 deposit-automated ATM will also be a welcome addition for local businesses and consumers.” Tioga State Bank provides financial services to the Southern Tier of New York State and Northern Pennsylvania with eleven offices in Broome, Tioga, Chemung and Tompkins Counties. The bank’s website address is www.tiogabank.com and phone number is 1-888-303-4872.

Arts Council Launches Arts Incubator The Tioga Arts Council's Arts Incubator gives artists the space to create, learn and connect. Made possible with a grant from the Community Fund of the Community Foundation for South Central New York, this innovative project represents TAC's commitment to pioneering new kinds of opportunities to help creatives succeed. TAC's Arts Incubator is a studio rental program for emerging visual artists, performing artists, and writers in Tioga County, NY. Each of the 100-200 square feet semi-private studio spaces shares a common space, kitchenette and bathroom facility with other creatives, providing opportunities for collaboration, socialization, learning and skill sharing above a public gallery space. All studios include: 24 hour private access, a common work sink and rest rooms, a common area for the display of artwork, free WiFi, and access to a

Technology Lab as available. Studio 2, which is available immediately, overlooks the Susquehanna River. It measures 7.5 feet by 11 feet plus a 9 feet x 4 feet closet and has two windows, high ceilings, and a storage closet. All inclusive monthly rent for this space is $150.00. Studio 3, which is available immediately, is 11 feet by 16 feet, has one window and a storage closet. All inclusive monthly rent for this space is $250.00. Application guidelines are available at http://www.tiogaartscouncil.org/artsincubator. The Tioga Arts Council is located at 179 Front Street in Owego, and is open Mondays, 10 am to 4 pm, and Tuesdays through Saturdays 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. For more information, contact Executive Director Abbey Hendrickson at tiogaartscouncil@gmail.com or (607) 6870785.

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Philadelphia Flower Show Bus Trip - March 8 Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County is offering a bus trip to the PHS Philadelphia Flower Show on Tuesday, March 8, 2016 with the snow date of Thursday, March 10. This year’s Flower Show theme is “Explore America,” a tribute to our National Parks. Join Broome County Master Gardeners to attend the world's longest-running

and largest indoor flower show. The cost is $78 per person. The registration deadline is Tuesday, February 23. The busses will leave the Cracker Barrel parking lot at 6:30 am. There will be a rest stop on the ride down and on the way home. To register, call (607) 584-9966 or visit http://tinyurl.com/hyy4by2.

Mon–Fri 8am–5pm Sat 8-noon

Oil Changes • Tires •Batteries & All Repairs SALES open Mon – Fri 9-5; Sat 10-2 PLOW TRUCKS ~ SUV’s ~ PICKUPS ~ CARS VANS ~ DUMP TRUCKS

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FEBRUARY 2016

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

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PAGE 4

Wildlife Habitat for Senior Residential Living The Carantouan Greenway has been funded by the Tioga County Senior Citizen Foundation in support of wildlife habitat development for senior residential living. Many seniors leave behind their own gardens, perennial beds, and green space; in exchange for residential living. This projects aims to give some of that back. Based on a needs assessment conducted with residents of Muldoon Gardens in Waverly, the project includes the design and development of wildlife habitat that will include native plant pollina-

tors, a bird feeder, nesting box, birdbath, and an architectural design to complement the historic Muldoon building. The garden is being developed at the entry to the original school-door-entrance; adjacent to existing seating and picnic areas. Residents have expressed interest in maintaining the gardens, feeding the birds, and relaxing in the enhanced outdoor space. Upon completion this spring, the garden will be certified by the National Wildlife Federation, as a Certified Wildlife Habitat.

Owego Businessman Keith Slocum, Production Manager for Our Green Acres in Owego, was recently presented an Excellence in IPM Award from the New York State Integrated Pest Management. This program has been designed to help producers of crops to use less pesticides and to use them effectively. Mr. Slocum’s award was for his cooperation in monitoring pheromone

traps for detecting the presence of the moths that lay the eggs that cause the larvae to get into the sweet corn. It is only after the moths are present and detected that the word goes out that growers should take preventative action. The objective is to create a program where growers have the information to utilize a minimum of pesticides.

WANTED: Tractor or Jeep. 1940’s Empire tractor or Willys Army Jeep. Rusty or Broken down, infield OK! Call 570-395-41.27 05/16

TOP DOLLAR PAID: Wanted! Old fishing tackle, lures, reels, etc. Some items worth $500. and more!!! Call me first, collector not a dealer so I pay more. Walt 607-972-5739 09/16

JT Construction Your Home Improvement. Specialist - roofing, siding’ decks, windows. Fully insured 100% satisfaction guaranteed. 607-625-5068 02/16

DENT REMOVAL: door dings, hail damage, dents removed without harm to car finish! Olympic Detailing 607-625-2332

FOR SALE: Sears Electric Snow Blower very powerful $200. Toro electric snow shove, unused $80. 30 cup coffee maker $25 607-687-2334 02/16

FOR SALE KENNEL: Heavy duty galvanized modular chain link fence kennel with one gate 6W x 8L x 4H (new $400) $250 excellent condition 607-624-2766 07/15

NEED IT HAULED MOVED or CLEANED: We can help local moving . Cleaning of houses, garages, attics, out buildings! Call 607-699-0212 4/16 WANTED: Vintage Jewelry men’s and women’s including watches. Also old toys, paintings and vintage collectables. Call Dave at 607-372-7860 11/16 NEED IT CLEANED OUT: Need it cleaned out, we just charge less! Attics to basements. Also garages sheds and barns. Call MK’S Affordable Cleanouts at 607 217-7455 Free Estimates! 3/16

DOG BOARDING: Pleasant Valley Dog Kennel, 5367 State Route 38, Newark Valley, NY 13811. 40 years in business, indoor/outdoor runs. Daily rates $14 one dog, $21 two dogs same run 607-6428776 06/16 WANTED: Your classified ad for our March 2016 issue. Please send in form below by February 25.

SEND US YOUR CLASSIFIED ADS

You can advertise your garage, yard or other sales, events, or items wanted or for sale here in the Community Press, the paper with the largest distribution (by US Mail) in the Owego market area. The same low rate for both commercial or personal family ads. Only $5 for the first 20 words. 1 WORD PER SPACE (add $1 for each 4 additional words)

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Send your classified ad to: COMMUNITY PRESS 7830 Route 434, Apalachin, NY 13732 Make check or money order payable to "BEAM" or drop off your ad at Beam Electronics in Apalachin. phone 625-2222 NAME ________________________________ PHONE ________________ ADDRESS ____________________________________________________ CITY __________________________ STATE ________ ZIP ____________ The Community Press goes to press on the first Monday of the month. Your classified ad should be received no later than the fourth Wed of the previous month.

FEBRUARY 2016

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

PAGE 5

Rebuild Owego Candidates

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HARDSCAPING  Field Stone  Walkways  Patios  Retaining Walls  Repairs

TREE & SHRUB TRIMMING • FALL CLEANUPS www.Williams-Landscape.com

Rebuild Owego Party Candidates for election on March 15, 2016. They are (left to right) Theresa Gosart, Richard VanHall, Kevin Millar, Rodney Marchewka, Patrick Cartwright Jr. The Rebuild Owego Party recently announced candidates for Village of Owego Mayor, Clerk/Treasurer and Trustees. They are going door to door to get signatures on a petition in order to get on the ballot for the March 15, 2015 village elections. Kevin Millar is running for Mayor, Rod Marchewka is running for Clerk/ Treasurer, and Theresa Gosart, Richard

VanHall, Kevin Millar, Rodney Marchewka, Patrick Cartwright Jr.. Richard, Theresa and Patrick are running for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Ward Trustee positions, respectively. The Rebuild Owego Party is working to keep village services of Police and Fire Departments intact, encourage business development and remaining below the tax cap for the 4th consecutive year.

“Taxpayers First” Party Candidates Running for Village Offices

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Watch the Daytona 500 with us! Left to Right: Steve May, Mike Phelps, Earl Hartman, and Ed Morton. Four Owego residents have formally announced their candidacies for Village of Owego offices that will be on the ballot on March 15. They are running on the “Taxpayers First” Party line. Current Village Trustee Steve May is running for Mayor, current officeholders Mike Phelps and Earl Hartman are running for re-election as Trustees, and newcomer Ed Morton is also running for Trustee. The “Taxpayers First” Party line is focused on three priorities: 1) Financial accuracy and accountability; 2) Maximizing efficiency and fffectiveness; and 3) Ensuring that taxpayers make final decisions on major issues. The candidates will be visiting residents face-to-face by going door-to-door to collect petition signatures, share information and answer quesntions. Steve May was first elected to the Village Board in 2014. He’s running for Mayor this year with a keen focus on improving financial and public accountability after a career spent building businesses in the private sector. He currently owns and operates Owego & Harford Railway and 10 other local companies. He lives on Montrose Avenue with his wife, Cheryl. Incumbent Trustee Mike Phelps is running for re-election after first being elected in 2014. He is a third generation resident of Owego and graduate of Owego Free Academy. He is a graduate

of Elmira College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice Administration and serves as a member of the Vestal Police Department. He and his wife, Terra (Seaver) and their four children live on Talcott Street in Owego. Incumbent Trustee Earl Hartman is also running for re-election. Earl was appointed in 2010 by former Mayor Arrington to fill a vacated seat and has served for two subsequent terms as an elected Trustee. He was born and raised in Owego and is retired from Cornell after 42 years in Civil Engineering Project Design and Management and as their NYS Code Official. He currently serves as an EMT with Village of Owego Emergency Squad and is very active in his Church. Earl’s wife Judy (Baker) also grew up in the village and they have four children and seven grandchildren. James Edmond (“Ed”) Morton is a first-time candidate for public office but is an eighth generation Owego resident. He was born and raised in Owego, is a graduate of Owego Free Academy, and holds a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Applied Economics from Cornell’s Dyson School of Management. He currently serves as Senior Vice President at Chemung Canal Trust and is the Treasurer and a Board Member of A New Hope Center. He and his wife, Kari, and their four children live on Front Street.

FEBRUARY 2016

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

PAGE 6

Apalachin Girl Scouts to Sell Cookies Saturday February 13th

$100 Purse Guaranteed! Upcoming Tournaments March 5

FREE POOL Tuesday nights 6-10

KARAOKE – Saturday March 19th start at 7

Pitch Tournament February 27th Stop in for details and more dates

TRY OUR WEEKLY SPECIALS

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POLICE • FIRE EMERGENCY

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BEARCAT SCANNER It's Girl Scout Cookie time! Apalachin Girl Scout Troop #40514 will hold cookie sales at Apalachin Fire

Station #1, 230 Pennsylvania Avenue, from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm on Sunday, February 28, and Sunday, March 6.

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New Broil King gas grills in stock fully assembled Gas grill parts for all makes of grills in stock! Call for Furnace Installation Estimates

Tioga Center EMS squad Captain Art Mayer presented a “ThankYou” photo to Tioga Downs’ Jeff Gural for his donation of $16,400 to enable the Tioga Center EMS to purchase a muck needed power lift cot.

Village of Waverly Receives Grant The Village of Waverly has been awarded $300,000.00 in grant funding through the New York Main Street Program which provides funding to assist New York’s communities with “Main Street” downtown revitalization efforts. Building owners of mixed-use properties on Broad Street in Waverly (from Fulton Street to Pennsylvania Avenue), will be able to apply for these funds to complete interior and exterior renovation projects. Eligible property owners will be invited to a public information meeting, where they will be able to find out more about this wonderful funding opportunity. Teresa Saraceno (pictured), Deputy Director of Tioga County Economic Development and Planning, applied on behalf of the Village of Waverly, and was an instrumental part in securing these funds for the Village. She worked tirelessly with the Village, throughout the rigorous Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) process. Her expertise and persistence assured the successful funding of the Waverly Downtown Revitalization Program. Teresa will continue to work with the Village as the Program Administrator, throughout the course of these projects.

Included in the grant is a $15,000.00 Streetscape Enhancement, which will improve the aesthetics of the three block area on Broad Street, with such things as trees, planters, hanging baskets, directional signage and bike racks. This is not the first time that Teresa has successfully secured funds through the New York Main Street program for our local communities. The Village of Owego (2005 and 2010) and the Village of Nichols (2012) are both past recipients of NYMS grants. Through the commitment of Tioga County Economic Development and Planning, on behalf of the Waverly community, the downtown will soon shine.

FEBRUARY 2016

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

PAGE 7

Floyd Hooker Estate Fund Awards Grants

SERVING BREAKFAST & LUNCH

Tuesday-Sunday -7am to 3pm (Closed Monday) www.facebook.com/gigisplaceapalachin

Left to right: Marty Borko (CFTT Board), Lori Elllis (Catholic Charities), Theresa Pipher (Carantouan Greenway), Ryan Cirbus (O-A School District Music Teacher), Katherine Gould (O-A School District Chorus Teacher), and Chris Bradley (Carantouan Greenway). Absent: Food Bank of the Southern Tier The Community Foundation for the Twin Tiers (CFTT) recently awarded $19,625 in grants from the Floyd Hooker Estate Fund. Floyd “Vic” Hooker died in 2007 and designated 30% of his estate to benefit the youth of Tioga County. Some of these funds were placed with CFTT and provide funding to school districts, or non-profit agencies working with school districts, to benefit the youth in Tioga County. Grants were recently awarded to the following: Catholic Charities, Tioga Outreach Center received $8,318 to support its countywide YES Individual Mentoring Program. The grant will help with costs for group activities, a family dinner, and mentor mileage reimbursement. The other part of the funding will help YES Club activities including a community service event, a therapeutic program, and a reward outing at the end of the school year. The Food Bank of the Southern Tier received $2,500 for its Back Pack

Program to provide children with meals during school breaks, holidays, and weekends. These are meals that the students would otherwise get as a free or reduced meal, when school is in session. Carantouan Greenway & Waverly School District, Butterfly Life Cycle & Wildlife Garden received $2,531. This request was for the Carantouan Greenway to work with both Waverly School District Elementary Schools to purchase butterfly kits and other needed materials for the classrooms to enhance the Butterfly – Lifecycle curriculum. The funding would also allow for the purchase of materials needed to establish a Wildlife Garden adjacent to one of the schools, which will be certified by the National Wildlife Federation as an official wildlife habitat. Owego Apalachin Middle School Music Department received $6,276 to expand its curriculum. The funding will enable the Music Department to purchase instruments which will create a hands on experience, beyond what current instruction can offer.

Apalachin Garden Club to Meet February 4 Are you interested in the Apalachin Federated Garden Club? The public is invited to the club’s meeting on Thursday, February 4, 7:00 to 8:00 pm, at the United Methodist Church, 303 Pennsylvania Avenue, Apalachin. Adults only, please. There is no charge. You can join the members in a sing-a-

Public Relations Workshop

The Tioga County Chamber of Commerce will present a Public Relations Workshop on Thursday, February 25, 8:30 am to 12:00 pm at the Owego Treadway Inn and Conference Center. The workshop focuses on understanding the basics of effective public relations and sound communication strategies and using public relations as a marketing tool. Participants will learn how to identify themes of clear, consistent and creative expressions of brand, important elements underlying marketing communications, and how to deal with negative media. The workshop’s facilitator is Maggie Barnes, a professional communicator for 25 years. She and her husband own MB Communications. She is a FEMA certified Public Information Officer and a member of the Southern Tier Regional Incident Management Team through NY. The cost is $30 ($20 for chamber members). Advanced reservations and payment are requested by February 19. Contact the Tioga Chamber at (607) 687-2020 or info@tiogachamber.com.

long or tap along with Robert Siegers playing banjo and Marian Tewksbury singer and guitarist. Light refreshments will be served. The object of the Apalachin Federated Garden Club is to beautify gardens, homes, and community and to aid in the promotion and protection of plants and wildlife.

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FEBRUARY 2016

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

Team Trivia Night - March 4 The Owego Apalachin Foundation For Excellence in Education is planning a Team Trivia Night to be held on Friday, March 4, from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at the Owego Elk's Club on Front Street in Owego. The host for the evening will be DJ John Adams. The Foundation is looking for support from local businesses, community groups, school groups, individual families through the sponsorship of a team. Teams may consist of as few as two to as many as eight team members. A donation of $225 for a business or organization team or $125 for a family team is tax deductible. Prizes will be awarded to the top three teams.

Ladies Luncheon The Owego Christian Women’s Club will hold a “When You Wish Upon A Star” ladies luncheon on Wednesday

Funds raised from this event will be available to the community through a grant process that supports innovative educational programs. They also are available through scholarships given to graduating seniors. To date the foundation has given over $118,496 in grants and $29,100 in scholarships. For more information go to the web site: www.OAFoundation.com. You can be a team or sponsor a team. Entrants are urged to register as early as possible. To sponsor a team, call Janey Sargent at 625-2725, or visit oafoundation.com for a Team Trivia application or for more information.

Mon-Sat 11 till closing; Sunday open at 1pm

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Super Bowl Party

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Feb 12th: Feb 13th:

Music by: Acoustic Brew

Valentine Dinner Special

• Surf & Turf Dinner for 2 $60

Feb 21st:

Tioga Downs Brings Back Popular Tribute Concert

Spirit of Johnny Cash - A Sold Out Event Again

February 17 from 11:30 to 1:30 pm at the Owego Treadway, the cost is $13. For more information contact carol at 607-785-3101 or cgg350@aol.com

7 Days a Week

Feb 7th:

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Daytona 500 Party

• FREE Food & Snacks • Drink Specials (during the race) Mar 4th: Music by: Dusty Wayne and Mr. Pete Music Duo

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A popular tribute concert to legendary American musicians returns to Tioga Downs this month. The entertainment complex is bringing back The Spirit of Johnny Cash, which also features the music of Elvis Presley, Bruce Springsteen and more Saturday, February 6. This same show entertained a sold out audience during its 2013 run at Tioga Downs. “We are confident fans of all ages will enjoy this show that highlights the music of some of the most influential musicians in history,” said owner Jeff Gural. “We are pleased to be able to offer an evening of great entertainment at an affordable price.” The Spirit of Johnny Cash will occur on February 6 at 7:00 pm and 9:00 pm on the Tioga Indoor Stage. While tickets for both performances have already sold out, there will be a small number of tick-

ets available for sale from VIP guests that register for comp tickets but do not show up to claim them. The unclaimed VIP tickets will be made available on the evening of the show at the Tioga Downs Gift Shop for $10 per ticket. Harold Ford is widely regarded as one of the best Johnny Cash tribute artists, bearing striking vocal and physical similarities to the late musician. Cash’s own brother who has seen Ford perform sings his praises. After seeing his show in 2014, Tommy Cash told Harold, “There's hundreds of Johnny Cash impersonators, but you're different. I LIKED what I SAW!” (Source: http:// thespiritofjohnnycash.com/). Tribute artist Laura Lucy joins Ford on stage as June Carter Cash. For more information on Tioga Downs, visit www.tiogadowns.com.

FEBRUARY 2016

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

PAGE 9

Apalachin Lions Club Scholarships 2016 The Apalachin Lions Club 29th Annual Scholarship program will award $3000 in scholarships to deserving students from the class of 2016 who live in the 13732, and 13760, 18830 zip codes. This covers Apalachin, Campville (east to the Broome County line), and Little Meadows, PA. The scholarships are awarded to students who have made outstanding contributions in service to their community and school. Distribution of scholarships will be as follows: One $1000 scholarship will be awarded to students who attend Owego Free Academy and Vestal High School .And

one $1000 scholarship will be awarded to a student who attends either of the following schools: Broome Tioga BOCES, Montrose Junior-Senior High, Seton Catholic Central High School, Ross Corners Christian Academy, and Home Schooling (LEAH). The distribution of scholarships is based on the relative numbers of students from Apalachin, Campville and Little Meadows attending each of the schools. Information and applications may be obtained at the schools Guidance Office, or Vestal LEAH.

Vestal High Alumnus Receives Super Bowl Icon A golden football for a former Golden Bear… John Schultz, Vestal High School class of 1971, is the third past Super Bowl participant in our area to receive a gold football as part of the National Football League’s 50th Anniversary High School Honor Roll. To celebrate Super Bowl 50, the NFL sent a gold football to every high school in the world who has produced a player or coach who has appeared in a Super Bowl. John Schultz, an All-Conference champion who played for the Golden Bears from 1969 – 1971 under iconic Coach Dick Hoover, took the field as a Denver Bronco in Super Bowl XII on January 15, 1978, versus the Dallas Cowboys. As a Super Bowl player, Mr. Schultz also receives his own gold football, to mark a chapter in his life when he went from the New York State champion

Golden Bears to the red, black and gold of the University of Maryland, and then to Denver. In 1976, he was selected by the Broncos as a wide receiver, punt returner and special teams’ player. Schultz was named co-captain of the Broncos in 1977, helping his team capture the AFC championship and head for the first Super Bowl to be played in a domed stadium, the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans. To help honor Schultz, Vestal High School held a special pep rally on Friday, January 22, in the school’s gymnasium. Members of the school board, students, staff, and members of Schultz’s family were on hand to celebrate Schultz’s achievements and the honor of receiving a gold NFL football. The school also honored Schultz by retiring his number 43.

Owego Little League News 2016 Officers and Directors Owego Little League (OLL) President Ken Winters announces his Officers and Board of Directors for the 65th season: VP Baseball - Steve Terry VP Softball - Dave York. VP Teener - Jim Lavo. Secretary & Uniform Manager - Brandy Beach. Player Agent, Webmaster and Scheduler - Eric Hawkins. Equipment Manager - Nichole Wayman. Raffle Manager - Denis McCann. Safety Officer - Mike Hopkins. Picture Day Chairman - Phil Wiles. Parade Marshall - John Loftus. League Elder - Tom Ash. Board, Billboards - Steve Lounsberry Information Officer - Rich Ives. Senior Director - Dick Franz. Public Relations - Jim Raftis. Photo Committee - Joe Fuller President - Ken Winters. 2016 Calendar Calendar of Events from first meeting at The Countryside Community Center. Highlights provided by Player Agent, Webmaster and Scheduler Eric Hawkins: - On Line Registrations Open. Visit the OLL Website www.eteamz.com/owego. - In Person Registrations: Tuesday, Feb. 16, and Thursday, Feb. 25, from 6 to 7 pm at the Tioga County Boys and Girls Club. - Mandatory Coaches Meeting Wednesday, March 2, at the Ron Dougherty Tioga County Office Building, Main Street. - Indoor Clinic: Saturday, March 5, for 7 to 9 year olds from 9:00 to 11:00 am, and 10 to 12 year olds from 1:00 to 3:00 pm at OAMS gym. - Baseball Drafts: Majors and Minors Monday, March 28, at 7:00 pm. Modified Tee Ball and Tee Ball Tuesday, March 29, at 7:00 pm. - Practice: Starts Saturday, April 2, at Hyde Park.

- Opening Day, Picture Day, Homecoming dates are pending. - Post Season Tournament Dates: June 27 through July 10 and July 11 through July 24. Teener League Registrations VP Teener Jim Lavo reports Owego Teener League Signups have started. Check OLL Website www.eteamz.com/ owego to register. Do not wait to sign up. This year Lavo anticipates having two 14 and under teams (ages 13 and 14) and at least one 16 and under team (ages 15 and 16). Teener season starts the first week of June and ends at the end of July with the Tri County Teener League Playoffs and Championships. Teener is looking for coaches. Contact VP Teener Jim Lavo at (607) 9539751 for information about coaching or playing. Go to the OLL Website www.eteamz.com/owego often for updates from Webmaster Eric Hawkins. Sign up to volunteer for coaching, managing, umpiring, scoreboard operator, playing field preparation or other duties. Visit Little League-Williamsport Visit LittleLeague.org to get all your Williamsport Little League news, rules updates, and more. Most important now is the section for Parents to Stay Informed, Connected and Educated in the Parent Orientation Program. Dugout Chatter Former OLL Baseball VP Chris Rieg will coach in the Teener League. His son Mason has moved up to Teener. Natural son-parent baseball progression. Thanks Chris for your years of dedicated service and coaching to OLL. Safety Officer Mike Hopkins is a paramedic. League Officers say new VP Baseball VP Steve Terry is a great guy and a huge asset to the program. Reminder to email Dugout Chatter briefs and your memorable moments in OLL to jraftis2@stny.rr.com.

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FEBRUARY 2016

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

From the Photo Vault - February 1971

PAGE 10

NORTHERN LIGHTS LAMP SHOP 105 S. Duane Ave. Endicott, NY 607-748-1447

Hours: T-F 9-5; Thurs 9-7 Saturday 9-5 www.NorthernLightsLampShop.com

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Tioga County Sheriff Paul Taylor (seated) along with Undersheriff Warren Wiser (right) started a County ID program, a system of uniform proof of age for young people ages 18 to 21, (and anyone older). This will be the only proof of age that will be accepted by taverns, hotels and other dispensers of alcoholic beverages in Tioga County after May 1, 1971.

300 Main Street Endicott, NY 607-785-0411

765 Main Street Vestal, NY 607-748-4695 Mark J. Murphy, Lic. Mgr. Ronald Yurecka

Photo by: Fred J Brown Jr.

The Owego North Elementary School PTA announced their Valentine Fashion Show

Selling at a Farmers’ Market - Workshop Are you interested in becoming a farmers’ market vendor in the 2016 season? Do you think the rules and regulations are too strict to sell your products? Come to a workshop being held at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County on Thursday, February 4, starting at 5:30 pm. This workshop will focus on all aspects of selling at a Farmers’ Market, including permits and insurance, marketing and farmers market coupon programs (such as SNAP, EBT, WIC and FreshConnect), basic food safety, and products needed to fill niches at the various farmers’ markets in Broome County. The regional farmers’ market currently under construction will be highlighted as a potential selling opportunity. You will hear from local farmers’ markets seeking vendors, including Highland Park, Endicott Visitor Center, Otsiningo Park and Downtown Binghamton. The cost is $15 per farm or family. Contact Carol at (607) 584-9966 or clf62@cornell.edu to register or for more information. You can also register and pay securely at: https://reg.cce.cornell.edu/sellingatfarmersmkts_203

Steven Gabriel, Lic. Mgr. Kurtis VanAbs

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Phone (607) 625-4395 Fax (607) 625-5488

6276 State Route 434 Apalachin, NY 13732

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FEBRUARY 2016

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

PAGE 11

Vestal Art Students Capture Scholastic Gold Key Awards 7 New St., Apalachin, N.Y.

Margaret Karpel – Owner E-mail: mkarpel@stny.rr.com

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Call today for an appointment (607) 625-3591

Karaoke Saturday - February 6th

Next To Kin - Back with us in March

Left to right: Vestal Gold Key Award winners Emma St. Pierre, Kristen Garrison, Samantha Cooper and Brielle Sarkisian. Several Vestal High School art students last month received multiple awards in the regional Scholastic Art Awards ceremony at the Clemens Center in Elmira, New York. A number of students received receiving Honorable Mentions and four received the highest level of achievement on the regional level – a Gold Key award. The four Vestal students who received a Gold Key award are Emma

Pancake Supper February 9 St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Owego will hold a Shrove Tuesday All You Can Eat Pancake Supper on February 9, 5:00 to 7:00 pm, in the great hall. There will be a 50/50 Raffle and gift prizes. The menu includes pancakes, sausage, scrambled eggs, applesauce, dessert, and hot and cold beverages. Cost is $6.00 for adults, children (6 to 12 years) $3.00, and free for children 5 and younger. The building is fully handicapped accessible, with elevator entrance on the Liberty Street side of the church. The church is at 117 Main Street in Owego. (687-2830) Parking is available on Liberty Street and in the church parking lot.

Super Pancake Breakfast February 7 A Super Pancake Breakfast will be held on Sunday, February 7, from 8:00 am to 12:00 Noon, at Tioga Oppoqrtunities, 9 Sheldon Guile Boulevard in Owego. The menu is all-you-can-eat pancakes, sausage, scrambled eggs and fruit. There will also be juice, coffee, and tea. A free will offering is accepted. All proceeds from the breakfast will benefit the Tioga County Rural Ministry.

Free Ice Cream Social February 13 There will be a free Ice Cream Social on Saturday, February 13, from 6:00 o 8:00 pm, at the Apalachin United Methodist Church, 303 Pennsylvania Avenue in Apalachin (625-2733). This the perfect time to bring your sweetheart(s) for a “sweet treat” to celebrate Valentine's Day! The event will be fun for the whole family!

St. Pierre, Kristen Garrison, Samantha Cooper and Brielle Sarkisian. Their art pieces will advance to New York City for the national judging in April. Following the awards ceremony, the young artists were invited back to the Arnot Art Museum for a light reception. The exhibit featuring artwork by the regional Scholastic Art Award winners will be on display there until March 2.

Bring Your Sweetheart to the Terrace and Celebrate Valentine’s Day with us Friday & Saturday Feb 12 & 13

The Terrace The Friendly Neighborhood Tavern Rt. 434, Apalachin, New York 625-3935

FEBRUARY 2016

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

PAGE 12

Connecting Cultures at OFA

Peanut and Emma TOWING & ACCIDENT RECOVERY AUTO RENTAL with Direct Billing to Insurance

Art Class with Beadwork Artist, Karenlyne Hill - Left to Right: Kristina Smith, Elizabeth Tombs, Emma Packard, Alicia Twoey, Samantha Caldwell, Kaitlyn Kipp, Marissa Berthiaume, Conner Spicer, Jazmyne Barreca, Cassidy Bond, Janae Conklin, Karenlyne Hill (Bead Artist), Susan Camin (Art Teacher), Victoria Miller, Morgan Watkins. Not pictured: Chantel Fineout, Amanda Smith

Over the past year, Owego Free Academy art students in Susan Camin's sculpture class had the opportunity to learn about Native American art and culture firsthand. Hickory Edwards, a canoe maker and paddler from the Tur-

tle Clan of the Onondaga Nation, and Karenlyne Hill, a bead artist from the Snipe Clan, Onondaga Nation, gave presentations about their traditional ways.

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Wine Tasting Friday Feb 12th from 4pm-7pm hosted by Yates Cellars Group with Finished Artwork - Back Row, Left to Right: Susan Camin, Amanda Smith, Jazmyne Barreca, Emma Packard, Elizabeth Tombs, Victoria Miller, Kristina Smith. Front Row, Left to Right: Marissa Berthiaume, Morgan Watkins, Alicia Twoey, Janae Conklin, Samantha Caldwell. Not pictured: Kaitlin Kipp, Conner Spicer, Cassidy Bond, Chantel Fineout

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Call Earl for an appointment 625-3015

FEBRUARY 2016

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

Grant Applications Accepted The Owego-Apalachin Foundation for Excellence in Education is now accepting grant applications through February 28, 2016. Application forms may be requested now through February 28, or the application forms may be downloaded at the foundations’s website up to the February 28th deadline. Grants will be awarded at the foundation’s Annual Grants Award Ceremony this year on Wednesday, April 27, hosted by Owego Apalachin Middle School, 3 Sheldon Guile Boulevard in Owego. Ideas for grants can be submitted by students, teachers, staff, parents, residents, businesses and/or agencies. The foundation will be looking for ideas that will help prepare students for the challenges of this century and enhance their

educational experiences. The foundation encourages grant requests up to $500.00 per grant. Only one request per program. Multiple grants will be awarded in one period. Grants must be used within one year of acceptance. No stipends will be accepted. No recess or playground equipment will be accepted. No instructor training will be accepted. To apply for a grant application, download the application from the foundation’s website (to make sure you get the updated copy of the application) at OAFoundation.com. Completed grant applications must be received or postmarked on or before February 28, 2016.

“Check Out Hunger”

The Food Bank of the Southern Tier has announced the start of their annual Check out Hunger fundraising campaign. For the past 22 years, the Food Bank has partnered with local grocery retailers to raise donations to help support hunger -relief efforts and increase awareness surrounding the issue of hunger in the Southern Tier. Now through March 5, donation coupons are conveniently located at participating store checkout registers for shoppers to make a donation of their choosing. Coupons are available in $2, $3, or $5 increments with barcodes that simply include the donation in the checkout total. “Check Out Hunger is the Food Bank’s single largest fundraising campaign of the year,” said Natasha Thompson, President and CEO of the Food Bank of the Southern Tier. “The funds that come in from this campaign allow us to continue growing the services we

provide to our neighbors in need.” Participating stores include Tops Friendly Markets (Owego, Bath, Big Flats, Corning, Elmira, Ithaca, Lansing, and Watkins Glen), Wegmans Food Markets (Johnson City, Corning, Elmira, Hornell, and Ithaca), Jubilee Foods (Horseheads), and Save-A-Lot (Elmira). All donations stay in the Southern Tier and directly support hunger-relief programs including the Mobile Food Pantry and BackPack Program™. “Last year, Check Out Hunger raised nearly $268,000, and we are hoping to see this program continue to grow,” added Thompson. “Every $1 donation allows us to provide 3 meals to our neighbors in need, so the impact of these donations is very real.” To learn more about making a difference in the fight against hunger, visit the Food Bank of the Southern Tier website at FoodBankST.org or call (607) 7966061.

December Milk Production Up 3.5% in NY Milk production in New York during December 2015 totaled 1.20 billion pounds, up 3.5 percent from December 2014, according to Blair Smith, State Statistician of the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, New York Field Office. Production per cow averaged 1,940 pounds in December, 50 pounds more than December 2014. The number of milk cows on farms in

the State was 620 thousand head, 5,000 head more than December 2014, but unchanged from November 2015. The average milk price received by New York farmers in November 2015, at $20.00 per hundredweight, is up $0.80 from October 2015 but down $3.80 from November a year ago. The complete Milk Production report and all other NASS reports are available online at www.nass.usda.gov.

WEB EXTRA PAGE 1

The Village of Owego

From the Mayor’s Desk The Village of Owego Flood buy outs of flooded properties have been finalized. The last closing will take place on Friday, January 29.There were a total of 18 buyouts of severely damaged or repetitively seriously damaged properties. The total property tax loss to the village from the buyouts will be $6,171 annually. These properties were paid for by FEMA funds that the village received and they appear in deed transfers as the village buying the property. The street lights on North Avenue near the railroad underpass are being worked on. A change in specifications led to a delay, but completion is expected by February 15. These lights are LEDs and will cost the village much less in electricity and maintenance. The village is also looking into buying all the cobra heads street lights from NYSEG and converting them to LEDs. There are NYSEG grants to do this and the village would not have to pay monthly rent on the poles anymore. Conversion to LEDs will greatly reduce the cost of electricity and maintenance. We are also looking for sturdy LED lights to install in the pedestrian underpass on Paige Street. The Evergreen Cemetery Grant is in process. An engineering firm has met with Jeff Soules and the mayor to review the project and to draw up a Request for Proposal (RFP) and a bid package to restore the stone walls in the cemetery. The village is preparing a RFP for a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) to have a solar energy firm build a solar array from which the village would buy electricity. We would save about 25 % of what we currently pay for electricity. The village hired a firm to do an audit of utility companies that provide services to village residents. They are supposed to pay the village a gross utility receipts tax. The village received a check for $4,269 from Verizon for unpaid gross

receipt taxes that were due. The Tax Cap was met and the Tax Cap Freeze Efficiency Plan was filed with NYS Department of Taxation and Finance by the village in August. This has resulted in tax rebate checks going out to village residents. We conferred with the NYS Division of Taxation & Finance last week and were informed that they are sent out in no particular order, but are all being processed. This is the first year this tax rebate was in effect and the Comptroller’s Office had to check all the efficiency plans to make sure they met the required criteria. Village officials have met with Crystal Tramunti, FEMA CRS Office, and are waiting on her report to see what the village needs to do next to enter the CRS Program Five village homes have been elevated as part of FEMA or NY Rising flood mitigation programs. One of the homes elevated was the first home in a historic district elevated in New York and it was the subject of a front page Press article in December. There are other homes that are planning elevation of their homes or elevation of mechanical systems above the flood plain. It has been a mild winter and that has helped to keep village expenses down for snow removal and salt spreading. Christmas tree disposal will continue until February 12. Please put trees out before February 12. Unwanted televisions and other electronic waste can be returned to Best Buy or Staples. There is also an e-waste disposal site in Candor. Village of Owego Elections are March 15, Noon to 9:00 pm. The last day to register with the Tioga County Board of Elections to vote is in this election is March 4, 2016.

Hearth Cooking Workshop: The Early African American Kitchen A Hearth Cooking Workshop about Early African American Kitchen will be held on February 9, at 3:00 pm, at Heritage Village of the Southern Finger Lakes in Corning. Michael Twitty will lead a small group in preparing foods that would have been common at the hearths of early African American slaves in the South, as well as free Blacks on the

Northern frontier. Learn the hands-on skills of hearth cooking in the period kitchen of the Benjamin Patterson Inn. The cost is $10, and pre-registration required. Availability is limited, call (607) 937-5281 by Monday, February 8, to reserve your space in the workshop. Visit www.heritagevillagesfl.org for more information.

Homesteading Series Learn how to raise more of your own food Do you have a bit of land? Have you been dreaming of raising more of your own food? Do you love the taste of farm -fresh eggs or smoked bacon? Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) of Tioga County has you in mind! CCE Tioga kicks off a series of presentations on the basics of livestock care and homesteading skills that run from through April. Over the next few months, they will cover how to raise all sorts of livestock: chickens, rabbits, goats, sheep, beef cattle and pigs. They will discuss how to sell your meat and how to buy meat from local producers. They will inform you on the best ways to store your meat and vegetable harvest. There will be something for everyone, and all presentations are given by experts.

The classes for February, March, and April are: February 2 - Raising Pigs, $5 fee February 11 - Raising Sheep for Fiber and Meat, $5 fee February 18 - Raising Goats, $5 fee March 3 - Raising Meat Rabbits, $5 fee March 8 - Marketing and Selling Your Livestock, free March 30 - Raising Beef Cattle, $5 fee April 5 - Buying Local Meat, free April 13 - Ways to Store your Food, $5 fee. All classes run from 6:00 to 7:30 pm at the Ronald E Dougherty Building, 56 Main Street in Owego, and are open to all. Register for one or more classes by calling (607) 687-4020 or email Barb Neal at ban1@cornell.edu.

FEBRUARY 2016

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

Tioga Downs Celebrates Successful 2015 Looks ahead to even better 2016 After a successful 2015, Tioga Downs is ringing in the new year by announcing plans for increased investment in its events and the facility. Winterfest, the free family-friendly celebration of the holiday season, drew more than 13,000 people to the entertainment complex last month. The festivities ran two fewer days in 2015, but total Winterfest attendance saw an increase of 3,000 visitors from the previous year. The number of visitors watching the holiday parade more than tripled compared to 2014. “Word has spread that Winterfest is the community holiday gathering not to be missed,” said Tioga Downs owner Jeff Gural. “That coupled with December’s unseasonably warm weather made Tioga Downs the place to be this year.” Temperatures on three Winterfest dates reached into the 50s. Special activity nights proved popular again this year with more people coming out to enjoy the light show and brand new family photo booth area as well as the ice bar, craft show and ice sculpting evenings. Hundreds of guests enjoyed visiting the live reindeer, and additional new attractions are already being planned for Winterfest 2016. Tioga Downs’ revenues were up for the year by more than a million dollars, and the addition of full gaming this year

promises to yield further increases for 2016. “Additional revenue means more opportunities for us to invest in our community,” Gural said. “Tioga Downs remains thankful for the public support that made the gaming license possible and remains committed to giving back in every way we can.” Construction on an expanded gaming complex is underway. Tioga Downs officials have confirmed that construction is on budget as well as on schedule. The poker room, which represents the first phase of the casino expansion, is expected to open July 1. Tioga Downs offers live harness racing, video lottery terminals, video poker and electronic roulette. A variety of eateries are also part of the current entertainment complex. Jeff Gural owns Tioga Downs in Nichols, NY and Vernon Downs in Vernon, NY. Tioga Downs is beginning the process of transforming into a full casino gaming resort to serve the Southern Tier and beyond as well as expanding its facility and workforce to accommodate live casino gaming. In the last decade, Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs have created more than 700 family-sustaining jobs and donated millions to nonprofit organizations. For more information on Tioga Downs, please visit www.tiogadowns.com.

4-H Tractor and Machinery Operations Certification Program - Begins Feb. 9 The Tioga County 4-H Tractor and Machinery Operations Training and Certification program will begin Tuesday, February 9, in the auditorium of the Ronald E. Dougherty County Office Building, 56 Main St., Owego, at 7:00 pm. The cost of the program is $20 for non 4-H members and $10 for 4-H members. Registration forms and brochures can be picked up in advance from the Cornell Cooperative Extension, Tioga County Office, 56 Main St., Owego, NY. Parents/guardians must attend the first meeting and are encouraged to attend the remaining classes. Participants (with a parent) can register at the orientation meeting but should plan to arrive early to complete the required forms before the class starts. Students must complete all classes before receiving a certificate. The training program will enable youth 14 and 15 years of age, who wish to work as a hired employee for someone other than a parent or legal guardian, and operate a farm tractor that is 20hp or greater, to obtain the U.S. Department of Labor’s Hazardous Occupations Order in Agriculture (HOOA) certification. The program will provide participants with the required 24 hours of instruction, and it will include group discussions, demonstrations, field trips, hands-on activities, independent study, and field assignments.

During the educational phase of the program, youth will receive instruction in the safe operation of agricultural tractors and related machinery. Certification upon completion of the educational phase of the program will include a written examination, a tractor and machinery skills demonstration, and a tractor and machinery driving course. Participants must receive a minimum passing score of 70% in each test area to be issued a certificate of completion. The program is available to anyone 12 years of age and older, however only individuals 14 and older will be able to operate equipment and receive a certificate of completion. Individuals over age 15 are encouraged to attend as well. The top six participants will be eligible to participate in the New York State 4-H Tractor Operator’s Contest at the annual Empire Farm Days event. Tentative dates for the remaining classes which will be held at various farm and equipment dealers in Tioga County are: Tuesdays: February 16 and 23, and March 1, 8, and 15 from 7:00 to 9:00 pm each night. Three classes will be held on Saturdays, February 27 and March 5 from 10:00 am to noon; and March 19, from 9:00 am to noon. To find out more about the Tioga County 4-H Program, contact the 4-H Office, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Tioga County at 687-4020 or visit tioga.cce.cornell.edu.

“Thanks” from Salvation Army

The Tioga County Service Unit of the Salvation Army, Empire State Division would like to thank all of the many individual volunteers and various organizations that helped with their annual Red Kettle drive this past holiday season. Special thanks to the kettle coordinators in each area of Tioga County: Alicha Hatch, Candor; Ronald Wheelan, Owego; Dot Richter, Nichols; Audrey McKean, Spencer; Shirley Callahan, Newark Valley and Kem HartBaker, Tioga County Salvation Army

Treasurer. Thank you for your generosity of giving back to your community. Please consider donating your talent or time to help this worthy organization. Monies raised through the Red Kettle drive remains within the specific areas of the county where the money was donated to assist those in need throughout the year. Through your donations or fundraising efforts, you are helping the Salvation Army to “Do the Most Good” all year long.

WEB EXTRA PAGE 2

Boating Safety Course Offered The Susquenango Sail and Power Squadron will offer a boating safety course. Classes will be held 7:00 to 9:00 pm on five consecutive Tuesdays, February 16 to March 15 ; or on April 25, 7:00 to 9:00 pm, April 30, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and May 2, 7:00 to 9:00 pm. All classes held at the Johnson City High School. In New York, you must attend a classroom course and hold a safety certificate for: Personal Watercraft (PWC)— minimum age to operate a PWC is 14; regardless of age, a safety certificate is required. Motorboats—New Law Effective May 1, 2014: all individuals born on or after 5/1/96 are now required to successfully complete an approved course in boater education in order to operate a motor-

boat. Motorboats—Children under the age of 10 may not operate a motorboat unless a person born before 5/1/96, or a person with a boating certificate born after 5/1/96, is on board. Children 10 years of age or older must successfully complete an approved boating course to operate a motorboat alone. Upon successful completion of the course you will receive a NYS approved USPS Boating Safety Certificate to operate recreational boats, including personal watercraft. (Mandatory for all PWC operators regardless of age) Short seminars are available to expand boating skills or to learn how to use equipment. For a list of seminars, visit www.susquenango.org for a complete list. For more information and to register, visit www.susquenango.org or call (607) 797-7391. Please give your name and contact info if interested.

The New Year Brings New Opportunity for Our Community’s Economy by Senator Fred Akshar The New Year brings our community new opportunities and a fresh start on the challenges we face. To be successful, we must pursue these opportunities, and face these challenges, together. Thanks to the hard work of the Southern Tier Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) our community recently got some very good news $500 million in economic investment. The REDC Co-Chairs, Binghamton University President Harvey Stenger and President and CEO of Corning Enterprises Tom Tranter, worked with a talented and passionate group of local leaders to put forth the best plan in the State. I applaud all of the REDC members for their hard work and dedication. It really paid off and it’s a good example of how we can work together for success. But this $500 million will only take us so far in meeting our Region’s needs for jobs, opportunity and economic growth. We need to continue partnering with the private sector, invest in our current workforce and get out of the way of small businesses. Binghamton University’s Downtown Campus has brought new life to the City of Binghamton’s downtown area because the private sector stepped up. And as I toured Johnson City with Mayor Deemie in November, we talked about how eager we are to see how the new Pharmacy School may trigger similar private investment in the Village. While our Region prepares for the return on the REDC’s hard work along with private investments, it will be critically important that job seekers gain the skills they need for today’s evolving job market. During a recent tour of SUNY Broome’s campus, President Kevin Drumm and I talked about the college’s plans to meet this need with its highly qualified educators and modern facilities. This capacity for exceptional workforce training will be vital to our economic success and growth. I’ve said before that I don’t believe that it’s government’s responsibility to create jobs. I’ve visited Tioga Hard-

woods in Berkshire, Harris Diner in Owego, Whitney Point Pre-School, Raymond Corp. in Greene, Johnston and Rhodes Bluestone in Hancock and many other business in between. They’re on the same page. They know how to grow their business far better than government. What they want is for government to stop stunting their growth with cumbersome regulations and outrageous taxes so they can thrive on their own. As your State Senator, that’s where I’m focused. A whopping 91 percent of our local employers are small businesses. The State needs to make owning a business or doing business here just as easy as it is in our neighboring state 15 or 20 miles down the road. I’ve already started working with the New York State Business Council to put together a very practical package of small business tax relief and regulatory reform. When we return to Albany for Session I’ll introduce my first legislation ever and it’ll be this package of bills. Being elected to the Senate by the people of the Southern Tier is a humbling and very exciting experience—and one that I take very seriously. I’ll be an independent and energetic voice to cut through the congestion that gets in the way of progress for Upstate. What I’ve heard and seen while spending time in each of the 40 cities and towns in the 52nd District is going to be most useful as I work to make sure that we’re not forgotten by the Governor and his administration. And I’ve learned that I’m only going to be a great representative for you if I continue to keep my ears--and feet--to the ground as much as possible. I’m looking forward to rolling up my sleeves and getting to work for our future. Fred Akshar is the recently elected Senator representing the 52nd District, including Broome, Tioga, and parts of Chenango and Delaware Counties.

FEBRUARY 2016

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

4-H to Offer Bird Projects 4-H Program to offer Meat Bird, Fall Turkey and Ring-Necked Pheasant Projects for Youth 9 to 19 years old The Tioga County 4-H Program is offering three different 4-H bird projects for youth 9 to 19 years old. An introductory meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 9, at 6:00 pm in the CCE conference room of the County Office Building. Youth must be enrolled members of the 4-H Program in order to participate. Enrollment information will be available at the meeting. • 4-H Meat Bird Project The 4-H Program has once again partnered with Bruce’s Processing, Athens, PA for the 4-H Meat Bird Project. 4-H project members will receive up to 15 birds each; the birds must be taken in five bird lots. There are a limited number of birds available so registrations will be on a first-come, first-served basis. All birds must go through the 4-H Livestock Auction at the Tioga County Fair. • 4-H Fall Market Turkey Project The 4-H Program has partnered with the Owego Kiwanis, to offer the 4-H Fall Turkey Project. A Kiwanis sponsor will purchase six birds for the participating 4-H member. The 4-H member is responsible for all feed and butchering costs. At the end of the project, the spon-

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sor will get a bird free of charge. The 4H member will then be responsible for finding buyers for the remaining five birds. The program will begin in June and 4-H youth will raise the birds until late October at which time the birds will go to the butcher. • 4-H Ring Neck Pheasant Raise and Release project The 4-H Ring-Necked Pheasant Raise & Release project is being made available to 4-H through the DEC. Following the introductory meeting, 4-H families will have until February 29 to decide whether to commit to the project or not. The 4-H office will order all pheasant chicks which are delivered in early May. In order to ensure proper rearing and release conditions for the birds, project leaders will assist members in preparing rearing facilities and evaluate the release site before approving them for the project. Youth will monitor their project and report on their experiences and release numbers to the DEC. The rearing of pheasants requires a great deal of responsibility and commitment but it is an enjoyable and rewarding project. People enjoy seeing and hearing pheasants, and many look forward to the fall hunting opportunities. For more information, contact the 4-H Office, CCE, Tioga County at 687-4020 or visit tioga.cce.cornell.edu.

A New Hope Center Volunteer Hotline Training Volunteers are needed to staff the 24 hour crisis hotline, to provide support, counseling, and crisis intervention services. Training is free. Volunteers who complete the training may be eligible to receive NYS DOH Rape Crisis Counselor certification. Help people from your home. Classes are scheduled to begin Monday, February 1, 2016, and will run once a week for ten weeks (finishing up on 4/18/16) from 5:30pm to 8:30pm each

week at the New Hope office at 20 Church Street in Owego. A light dinner to be provided each session. There will be no classes on President’s Day (2/15/16) and Easter Monday (3/28/16) . Please pre-register and get the details to attend the training You can register by calling New Hope office at 687-6887, by emailing franb@anewhopecenter.org, or through Facebook at: A New Hope Center.

County Legislature Meeting - February 9 The second regular meeting of the Tioga County Legislature of 2016 will be held at Noon on Tuesday, February 9, in the Edward D. Hubbard Auditorium, 56 Main Street in Owego. If you are attending, and require ac-

commodation or auxiliary aid, contact the legislative office at 687-8240. With advance notice, necessary auxiliary aids will be provided at no cost to the person requesting assistance.

Free Income Tax Assistance Free Income Tax Assistance is available at several locations in Broome County on a first-come, first-served basis or by appointment now through April 15. This program, which is sponsored by AARP and Broome County Office for the Aging, is designed for taxpayers with middle and low income with special attention for those age 60 and older. Counselors are trained by the IRS. Taxpayers are asked to bring forms indicating Federal income tax paid: all W-2’s, 1099’s (i.e. bank interest), & any other statements reflecting 2015 income and tax-deductible expenses, including receipts of property tax, charitable donations, medical expenses, mortgage payments and child-care expenses as well as Social Security numbers for all dependents. Also bring your copy of the 2014 income tax returns. For more information, call J. Tassey at 625-2658. Walk-In Sites No Appointment Required: • Endicott - George F. Johnson Library, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm • Johnson City - Oakdale Mall, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, Close Friday starting March 18. (See sign at mall

office for AARP site location) • Vestal - Vestal United Methodist Church, 328 Main Street, Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, 9:30 am to 1:30 pm. Appointments-Only Sites • Binghamton - Broome County Library, 185 Court Street, Mondays through Saturdays, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Call 211 or 1-800-901-2180 (Monday - Friday, 8:30 to 4:00 pm) for appointments. • Senior Centers - 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Call for appointments. Binghamton First Ward, 226 Clinton Street, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 797-2307 Broome West Endwell, 2801 Wayne Street, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 785-1777 Whitney Point, 12 Strongs Place, call for days, 692-3405. Johnson City, 30 Brocton Street, 9:30 am to 1:30 pm, Tuesdays, Wednesdas, Thursdays, 797-3145. Union Center Christian Church, 950 Boswell Hill Road, Mondays, 3:00 to 7:00 pm. For appointments, call 7548222 Monday through Thursday, 9 am to 4 pm. If local school district cancels classes (due to weather) tax aide sites will be closed.

Grant Opportunities The Community Foundation for South Central New York has announced several grant opportunities for non-profit organizations operating in Broome, Chenango, Delaware, Otsego and Tioga Counties. “Our 2016 grant cycle has officially opened and we look forward to supporting the important work of non-profits in our community.” said Tina Barber, Program Officer at The Community Foundation for South Central New York. Online Application Applicants will be able to complete and submit applications online. There are several opportunities that are currently open including: The Small Grants Program for requests under $5,000, The Community Fund for requests from $5,001 to $15,000, and the Broome Library Foundation Fund for libraries in Broome, Chenango, Delaware, Otsego, and Tioga counties.

The deadlines for these opportunities vary so applicants should visit www.donorswhocare.org to view each set of guidelines and start the application process. The Community Foundation for South Central New York, a nonprofit organization founded in 1997 and headquartered in Johnson City, encourages and facilitates personal and institutional philanthropy throughout the region by managing 90 funds established by donors to achieve specific charitable goals. From these funds, the Foundation has awarded over $10 million in grants to the area’s nonprofits, schools, and municipalities to help address community concerns and improve the quality of life in the region. The Community Foundation serves donors and nonprofits in Broome, Chenango, Delaware, Otsego and Tioga Counties.