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JANUARY 2015
Volume 30
STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #9 APALACHIN, NY
The Town of Owego 2014 in Review
Number 1
Fire Destroys House in Little Meadows
by Donald Castellucci, Jr. Town of Owego Supervisor I hope you and your families enjoyed a blessed Christmas and holiday season. I wish all of you a happy and healthy new year as well. So far we have been spared the harsh winter we endured last year. Hopefully that trend will continue! As we look forward to a new year, I wanted to highlight some of the information and facts that have occurred during the 2014 year. As I do each year, I want to take a moment to thank the Town of Owego employees for their continued dedication to the town and its residents. Their efforts contribute to the quality of life we have come to appreciate. I will highlight the upcoming 2014 budget followed by an overview of the projects by department, and some miscellaneous information in conclusion. If you live in the Village of Owego the tax levy increased by $30,300 which in turn resulted in a total town tax of $66.02 on an average assessed home of $62,800. This resulted in an increase of $2.34 for 2015. If you live outside the village, you pay the town wide and town outside tax. The town outside tax levy increased $139,520 and as stated above, the town wide tax levy increased $30,300 for a total increase of $169,820. The total tax paid is $386.14 based on the average assessed home of $99,900 dollars. The town wide portion is $105.02 and the town outside portion is $281.12. In 2014 the total town tax was $362.60. This resulted in a tax increase of $23.54 for 2015. Factors negatively affecting the budget: the economy remains weak, an approximate loss of assessment of 1.8 million dollars in the town and village, continued state mandates and continued loss of revenue at the Hickories Park. The loss of assessment was much worse but was offset by some new construction, commercial improvements and other development. The 2014 amount of revenue received at Hickories Park was approximately $160,000 in camping fees and pavilion rentals. The revenue is still
not back to pre-flood levels but is increasing. We expect with the upgrades completed this spring that the revenues will continue to rise back to normal levels as long as the weather cooperates. At Hickories Park we hope to have the dog park completed by mid to late spring. Also we anticipate that a new long lasting band shell will be in place. A big thank you to Senator Libous, The Mildred Faulkner Foundation and some donors to be named later for making this project cost free to the town. The process has begun to rebuild the boat launch at Hickories and should be completed in the spring. Continued paving and patching will also occur in 2015. By this summer the park upgrades should be completed and back to full capacity. Our Highway Department had a very busy year as they continue to maintain the current infrastructure and are readying for a busy winter and spring season. Work completed last year included the total pavement reconstruction in the Ray Lee Development (Lori Drive), pavement rehabilitation in the Lincolnshire Development, pavement reconstruction of five roads in Tioga Terrace, pavement overlay on Strong Road, pavement surface treatment on Ridgefield Road in Crestview Heights and over $286,000 in paver patching and manual hand patching. Additionally the Whittemore Hill Bridge was replaced. Regular drainage maintenance continued as well.
A three-bedroom, single-family ranch house at 13830 Route 858 in Little Meadows, PA, was destroyed by fire on Saturday, December 27, 2014. No one was in the house, and no injuries were reported. The Little Meadows Fire Department responded to the fire. They were assisted by fire departments from Apalachin, Susquehanna, Warren Township, Rome, Rush/Lawton, Vestal, and Endicott. Route 858 was closed for several hours while the firefighters worked to extinguish the blaze. Little Meadows and Apalachin Fire Departments returned to the scene about 8:45pm because the fire had rekindled. The fire was quickly put out and no other hot spots were detected.
The 10-year-old house, which is listed for sale, is located just north of the intersection of Rt 858 and Bowbridge Road (near St. Thomas the Apostle Cemetery). A large, detached polebarn/ garage near the house was not affected by the fire.
Thanks from the Apalachin Lions Club
CONTINUED ON PAGE 11
2 0 1 5
The Apalachin Lions Club thanks White Tails in Little Meadows, PA, for their help with the Lions' 2014 Christmas Basket Program, and for donating toys and food. Pictured, left to right: Jeff Kuhr, Heather Vaugn and Apalachin Lion President Jake Brown.
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JANUARY 2015
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
PAGE 2
Southern Tier Region passed over by New York State for a Casino! Traditions, Tioga Downs, and Senator Libous make last minute plea to Cuomo
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December 17, 2014 -- The Gaming Facility Location Board (GFLB) recommends only 3 of the 4 possible casino licenses for New York Sate, with the one license in the “Eastern Finger Lakes/Southern Tier” Region going to Lago Resort & Casino in Tyre, Senaca County instead of Tioga Downs in Tioga County or Traditions in Broome County.
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December 19, 2014 - NYS Senator Tom Libous asks for the fourth license to be granted in the true Southern Tier region. December 22, 2014 - The Oneida Indian Nation, owner of Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, NY, announces plans to build a $20 million, 67,000 square foot Yellow Brick Road casino in the Village of Chittenango (about 15 miles east of Syracuse).
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December 23, 2014 - At a joint news conference (pictured above) with Jeff Gural of Tioga Downs, Peter Walsh of Traditions announces that the Traditions team will give their full support to Tioga Downs in its fight for the 4th license. “Mr. Gural reached out to our team to discuss a unified front to fight for the Southern Tier,” Walsh said. “...the entire Southern Tier can now stand together and fight for that 4th license. There is no longer a division over Tioga or Traditions. We have put our pride and our differences aside as over 1000 jobs are at stake and this is far too important for our community. This unified front is our best chance at bringing the entire Southern Tier together to secure this 4th license…. This partnership will ensure that both Broome and Tioga will maximize the potential benefit from a casino in the region… This partnership ... has the ability to benefit much more than either one of our projects could have alone."
December 25, 2014 - On their Facebook page, Traditions wishes "Merry Christmas to everyone from the Traditions - Tioga Downs team." December 26, 2014 - Governor Andrew Cuomo writes a letter to the NYS Gaming Commission and the Gaming Facility Location Board (GFLB) asking them to "consider issuing a new Request for Application to seek a qualified applicant to submit a new bid that would allow the fourth and remaining gaming license to be awarded to a location in New York's Southern Tier" Cuomo pointed out that the applicant chosen on December 17 proposed a casino in an area “well north of the actual Southern Tier" Cuomo concluded: "I am requesting the GFLB consider approving a new bidding process for Region Five with the hope that a qualified Applicant will come forward to site a casino with the fourth available license in the true Southern Tier. Indeed, as this would be the last license issued in New York State, it may excite national competition by interested parties that submit even better Applications than the first round." Tioga County's
COMMUNITY PRESS
Volume 30 Number 1 January 2015 © 2015 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
JANUARY 2015
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
Southern Tier Food Bank in Hall of Fame The Food Bank of the Southern Tier has been inducted into Feeding America’s 2014 Advocacy Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame recognizes food banks that have completed a series of advocacy projects including outreach to local supporters as well as engaging lawmakers on a local, state, and federal level. Out of 205 total Feeding America network members, the Food Bank of the Southern Tier joins an elite group of just 21 to be named to the Advocacy Hall of Fame for 2014. “For us, advocacy work isn’t simply about providing assistance to meet the need that exists today as much as it is about educating the public and our lawmakers about policy opportunities to reduce the overall need in the Southern Tier on a long-term basis,” said Natasha Thompson, Food Bank of the Southern Tier President & CEO. “There are several key issues headed for Congress in 2015, and our efforts this year put us in a terrif-
ic position to engage lawmakers and articulate our priorities on this upcoming legislation.” Events hosted by the Food Bank of the Southern Tier in 2014 included a bill announcement in May from Congressman Tom Reed, the organization’s first ever Legislative Breakfast in September, a visit to the Food Bank from U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand in December, as well as a host of additional outreach throughout the year. Heading into 2015, the Food Bank is gearing up to work with federal officials on the Child Nutrition Reauthorization Act which includes programs such as the National School Lunch Program and the Summer Food Service Program among others. Another priority for the Food Bank in 2015 is the reintroduction of Congressman Reed’s food donation tax incentive legislation that failed to pass in the Senate. www.feedingamerica.org
Candor Man Charged with Manslaughter On December 25, 2014, the Tioga County Sheriff’s Office arrested Ronald A. Warner Jr., 39, from 111 Ithaca Road, Candor. Warner was charged with a Class C Felony, Manslaughter in the 2nd degree for recklessly causing the death of Daryl S. Dayhart, 56, from Brooktondale, NY. This was a result of an investigation following an emergency 911 call at or about 10:20 pm on December 24, 2014, of a disturbance at Punk’s Place Bar at 21 Mill Street in the Village of Candor.
An autopsy was performed at Lourdes Hospital by Dr. James Terzian on December 26, 2014, and observed by Tioga Sheriff’s Investigators and DA Kirk O. Martin. The cause of death was determined to be from blunt head trauma due to physical assault. Mr. Warner was arraigned by the Village of Candor Justice Swartz whom remanded him to the Tioga County Jail in lieu of $125,000 cash or $250,000 bond.
PAGE 3
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A Job Well Done - Scouts of Troop 43 in Apalachin are pictured with some of the food they collected for Thanksgiving baskets.
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JANUARY 2015
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
Tioga Central HS Senior Awarded Scholarship
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FOR SALE: Beautiful Shetland Fleeces $10 each clean assorted colors. Galaxy Gas Range N.G. clean works fine $100 call 607-589-6911 01/15
TIRES • TIRES • TIRES: Buy Direct. SAVE 30%-70% Famous Brands! Nichols NY Tire Hotline: (607) 699-3200 (Free Quotes) 02/15
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A Tioga County resident has been awarded a $1,000 per year "Educational Foundation Academic Distinction" scholarship to attend Alfred State. Rachel Schweiger of Barton is slated to graduate in 2015 from Tioga Central High School and intends to enroll in the veterinary technology program. The “Educational Foundation Aca-
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PAGE 4
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PERMANENT COSMETICS OF NY: Enhance brows, eyes and lips with permanent cosmetics. Bonnie Drumm at White Rose Day Spa 307752-3032. 01/15 GOLF-CARS: New, Used and customized. Buy direct. Large Selection, gas and electric. Yamaha, Ez-Go, and ClubCar. Golf-Cars USA, Nichols, NY (607) 699-3500 02/15 BUYING: Buying Antiques & Vintage Collectables, paying highest prices and I come to you! Call Dave at 607-372-7860 07/15
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WANTED: Vintage Jewelry men’s and women’s including watches. Also old toys, paintings. Call Dave at 607-3727860 11/15 DENT REMOVAL: door dings, hail damage, dents removed without harm to car finish! Olympic Detailing 607-625-2332 DOG BOARDING: Pleasant Valley Dog Kennel, 5367 State Route 38, Newark Valley, NY 13811. 38 years in business, indoor/outdoor runs. Daily rates $14 one dog, $21 two dogs same run 607-6428776 06/15 FOR RENT: 1 Bedroom Apartment on the 2nd floor. Right in the heart of Historic Downtown Owego, NY Close to Laundry mat, shopping, sight seeing, walking, parks, restaurants and so much more approx. 1000 sq ft No Smoking or Pets!!! Rental agreement for 1 yr Application with references and credit check. $650 plus utilities. Call And leave message 607-427-1736 WANTED: Your classified ad for our February 2015 issue. Please send in form below by January 24.
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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, fax 625-2111) 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.
JANUARY 2015
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
PAGE 5
Libous to Gaming Commission:
“Give the True Southern Tier a Chance”
MORE MONDAYS
Buy 1 Breakfast or Lunch get 2nd (equal or lesser value) 1/2 price
NOW SERVING BREAKFAST & LUNCH ALL DAY Watch for our new menu coming soon! Congratulations to Perry S., our Dec. Gift Certificate winner
Open: 7 Days a week 7am - 3pm • 625-2212 www.facebook.com/gigisplaceapalachin In response to last month’s casino siting decision, Senator Libous is calling on the New York State Gaming Commission, its appointed Gaming Facility Location Board, and the Governor to reconsider the Southern Tier's two applications for the fourth authorized casino license. “I’m stunned at the Gaming Facility Location Board’s decision to deny a casino to the real Southern Tier in Johnson City or Nichols,” said Senator Libous. “The chosen Tyre site is closer to Canada than it is to Binghamton.”
“I was not part of the independent casino siting process. It's clear the people I represent lost out on muchneeded jobs and opportunity,” said Senator Libous. “That's what I'm asking for: Give the true Southern Tier a chance.” The original casino siting legislation that Senator Libous supported allows up to two licenses in each region. New York State will not invest any money into any of the casinos; they are funded solely by private investment.
Apalachin Girl Wins 3rd Place in Lands’ End Holiday Art Contest This fall, more than 500 kids submitted artwork for the Lands’ End Kids’ annual Holiday Art Contest with the theme “We Love Winter.” Nellie Doak, age 11, of Apalachin, won third place in the contest, winning a $100 Lands’ End gift card. “From glitter glue to markers and crayons, we saw so many wonderful entries. However, Nellie’s stood out for its creativity and artistry,” said Syndi Stark, vice president of Lands’ End Kids. “We’re thrilled to award her a Lands’ End gift card to get great items for winter and the holiday season.” The contest, announced on Landsend.com and on the Lands’ End Facebook page, prompted children across America to draw what they love about winter in hopes of having their work selected and featured by Lands’ End. Nellie’s artwork (pictured) featured whimsical squirrels, feeding from a Christmas tree. The 2014 Holiday Art Contest consisted of three age categories: one to six, seven to nine and 10 to 12. Each of the age categories awarded a first, second and third place prize, for a total of nine winners. First prize was a $500
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Lands’ End gift card, second prize was a $250 gift card and third prize was a $100 gift card. Lands’ End, Inc. is a leading multichannel retailer of casual clothing, accessories, footwear and home products. See the 2014 Holiday Art Contest winners’ work at www.landsend.com/ artcontest/ and on the Lands’ End Facebook page and Pinterest.
Saturday Jan 17
Gene Hummel Saturday Jan 24 Karaoke Saturday - February 7th Tue –Steak Nite Wed - Shrimp Nite Thurs - Clam Nite
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JANUARY 2015
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
PAGE 6
CFTT Awards Grants from Floyd Hooker Fund
Left to Right: Jon Ward (CFTT Advisory Board), Mike Barbieri (Tioga Central School District), Danielle Farnbaugh (Food Bank of the Southern Tier), Petrea Rae (Catholic Charities), Brian Eldridge (United Way), and Angela Klopf (CFTT, CEO). Absent is: Project GROW and Spencer Van Etten Central School District. The Community Foundation for the Twin Tiers (CFTT) awarded $21,385 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, NY. Grants were recently awarded to the following: Catholic Charities, Tioga Outreach Center: Awarded $2,130 for its Youth Engagement Services (YES) program. The program provides mentoring to students and will help support group activities and a family dinner. Food Bank of the Southern Tier: Awarded $2,000 for its Back Pack Program. This program provides children with meals during school breaks, holidays, and weekends. Project GROW: Awarded $1,460 to pay for materials needed to renovate the green house at the Waverly School District. Tioga Central School District: Awarded $2,795 to fund the Lego
Mindstorms EV3 program for the middle school students. This program will expand the District’s curriculum and instruction, and offer more Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). United Way of Tioga County: Awarded $4,000 to continue working with students, selected by the schools, to be placed in its member non-profit agencies during the summer. This provides help and support to the nonprofits and it helps the students be more active in their communities and to think about philanthropy. The funding pays for the stipends to the students working in the non-profits. Spencer Van Etten Central School District: Awarded $9,000 to build a low -power FM radio station. This local media outlet will allow students to develop basic broadcasting skills and the English Department is planning to offer a broadcast journalism elective. Grant applications will be sought out again in October 2015 for any school or school based programming within Tioga County, NY. Contact CFTT at 570-8884759 or via e-mail at cftt@stny.rr.com to find out more.
Reeves Welcome a Baby Girl Aaron and Amanda (Brown) Reeves of Sayre, PA, are the proud parents of a baby girl, Kaitlin Hana Rose, who was born on December 3, 2014, at Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre. Kaitlin is the granddaughter of Ken Reeves of Sayre and Lori Reeves of Endicott, and Fred and Janet Brown of Apalachin, and the great-granddaughter of Junko Clymer of Sayre (formerly of Nichols). Aaron and Amanda also have a two-year-old son, Aiden.
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JANUARY 2015
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
Owego YES! Leaders Complete Training
16 YES! LEADers from Owego Free Academy attended a special training aimed at building the skills they'll use to talk to elementary students about the dangers of drugs and alcohol later in the school year. Sixteen students from Owego Free Academy completed their training to become YES! LEADers. YES! LEADers are middle and high school students who teach elementary school students about skills they need to resist drugs and alcohol, the importance of positive selfesteem in making safe choices and effectively handling peer pressure. The YES! Launch training program teaches YES! LEADers how to be role models for younger students through different team activities and educational sessions. Trained YES! LEADers are substance-free role models for younger students, who use their leadership skills
to develop resistance skills in elementary school children through interactive activities and age appropriate entertainment. Later in the school year, Owego’s YES! LEADers will visit elementary classrooms for their unique, hands-on presentations. They’re also committed to helping their community throughout the year, and will host a variety of outreach projects. YES! Safe Choices for Kids, a partnership between Senator Libous and Lourdes Hospital, is now in its 26th year. For more information about YES! LEADS, visit www.YesSafeChoices.org.
(left to right) Owego Free Academy YES! LEADers Mikayla Weston, Ben Siemer, Sara Wierbowski and Erica Sandtorv work together on the Life Raft activity, an activity designed to encourage teamwork and communication development during their YES! Launch training.
St. Baldrick's 2015 in Candor Wanted Men, woman, and children to have their heads shaved at the March 8, 2015 St. Baldrick's Event in Candor It's that time of year.... Let's make this year's event even bigger! St. Baldrick's Foundation is a volunteer-driven charity dedicated to raising money for childhood cancer research. The Candor American Legion Family along with the Candor Emergency Squad will be hosting one of St. Baldrick's signature head-shaving events at the Candor American Legion on March 8, 2015, from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. They are hoping to have at least 50 participates shaving their heads in solidarity with kids with cancer and raise money to conquer childhood cancers. Why all the shaved heads? Worldwide, a child is diagnosed with
cancer every three minutes, and one in five children diagnosed in the U.S. will not survive. With only 4% of all federal cancer research funding dedicated to pediatric cancer research, St. Baldrick’s Foundation volunteers, supporters and donors are needed to continue the battle against this devastating disease. This will be Candor's 5th St. Baldrick's event. In the past four years, they have shaved 236 heads raising over $130,000. Become a shavee and a “hero to a kid with cancer.” If shaving isn't for you, come cheer on the shavees. There will also be music, food and raffles. To sign up to become a shavee or to donate to the event or a shavee go to www.stabalricks.org/events/ CandorNewYork If you have questions, please contact Kelly Starkweather at 659-5450 or 9724395 or krstarkwe@gmail.com
PAGE 7
JANUARY 2015
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
PAGE 8
Friends of Cornell Cooperative Extension See article page 9
Saturday January 17th Sign up at 1 pm Starting at 2pm stop in for more details Check with us for other dates
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JANUARY 2015
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
Friends of Cornell Cooperative Extension (Photos on page 8) The Cornell Cooperative Extension many years of partnership and support of Association of Tioga County (CCE Tiothe EatSmart NY program. ga) recognized several “Friends of ExtenThe Spirit of Extension Award went sion” and staff at their dinner and Annual to Tioga State Bank and its staff for their Meeting on December 8, 2014, at the many years of partnership, Board service, Owego Treadway Inn. and financial support for CCE Tioga and Executive Director Andrew Fagan especially for the “Taste of Tioga,” 4-H welcomed the more than seventy guests, Youth Development and Family Develthanking them for their continued support opment programs. Ralph Kelsey, Tioga of the Cornell University affiliated nonState V-P, thanked CCE Tioga and exprofit that provides a wide array of compressed how important Cooperative Exmunity educational programs and sertension is to him personally and to the vices. It is part of the national Cooperagreater community and stressed that it is tive Extension System established to help important for the County to continue to extend research and local knowledge to support the organization, especially for foster economic, social, and environmenthe future of agriculture. tal improvement of individuals, families, The Friends of the Association and communities, especially in the areas Award went to Ruthanne and Dick Orth of agriculture, home economics, 4-H, and for their many contributions to CCE Tiocommunity betterment. ga for more than a decade, including volFagan began the evening by introducunteer leadership for the 4-H teen leadering the members of the volunteer Board ship program (now goLEAD), staff and of Directors including Michael Glos, Board trainings, and providing leadership Charley Truman, Tom Gartung, Karen and services in several committees, inLindhorst, Leslie D’Arcy, James Pratt, cluding fundraising and strategic planAustin Blinn, Drew Griffin, Gary Jones, ning. Ruthanne Orth, Cornelia Mead, Michelle Fagan also recognized Ruthanne Orth Dunham, and Kristi Van Dusen. He also and Drew Griffin for completing six welcomed Tioga County Legislator Wilyears of service on the CCE Tioga Board liam Standinger III, Owego Mayor Kevin of Directors. Michael Glos, Board PresiMillar, and State Extension Specialist dent, then helped recognize staff for comPaul O’Connor. pleting milestone years of service includFagan, who also serves as the Execuing, Lisa Westin-Bialy (5yrs), Meg Ward tive Director of CCE Chemung County, (10 yrs), Jody Tatich and Fagan (15yrs). continued the evening with the “State of Fagan surprised, long-term Senior Adthe Organization” report, stating “It has ministrative Assistant, Tina Murphy, with been a year of change, but we have still the Association Appreciation award for made significant contributions to Tioga nearly 30 years of continuous, dedicated County.” He welcomed new agriculture service to CCE Tioga, stating that for and horticulture educators, Michele Kline over 15 years, “Tina has been my right and Barbra Neal. He noted how the state and left arms…She takes care of all of has moved toward allocating funds on a the small things that add up to big things more regional basis and how it has negafor our organizations…. I could not do it tively impacted programs such as Nutriwithout her.” tion and Reality Check, as well as the Glos then led the business portion of overall CCE Tioga budget. All program the meeting. Minutes from the previous areas, including Family Development, 4year’s meeting were read and approved. H Youth Development, and Youth EmHe and Fagan introduced an amendment ployment, shared a few program impacts to the organization’s constitution required that are highlighted in the new 2014 Anby the IRS and introduced five candidates nual Report which were available for all for the Board of Directors. Tioga County guests. Fagan also proudly stated that he, residents in attendance then voted, passthe Board, and staff have worked hard to ing the amendment and electing Kristi “get their house in order,” completing Van Dusen, Austin Blinn, Marty Borko, their 2014-18 Strategic Plan, adopting Lisa Bloodnick, and Audrey Lowes to 3 new operating guidelines, and passing year terms on the Board of Directors. another outside audit with flying colors. They will join the Board at their organiThe most emotional part of the evenzational meeting in January 2015. ing came when Fagan and staff presented For more information about CCE Tiothe “Friend of Extension Awards.” Each ga, call 687-4020. Copies of the Annual year CCE Tioga recognizes individuals Report are available at the CCE Tioga and organizations that make significant office in the County Office Building, 56 contributions to CCE Tioga and who exMain Street in Owego, and it will be upemplify the spirit of extension. loaded CCE Tioga’s new website which will be launched this month. The Campus Collaborator Award went to Cornell University’s Community and Regional Development Institute staff member, Heidi Mouillesseaux-Kunzman, Tax Preparation for her many years of program support, trainings, and partnership. Fagan highlighted her leadership in offering the national “Stronger Economies Together” curriculum to the Tioga County Rural Economic Area Partnership (Tioga REAP) which is leading to the development of a biomass industry cluster in the Southern Tier. Heidi expressed her thanks and added that she is glad that as a life-long resident of Tioga County that her efforts are seen as valuable by CCE and the Tioga County community. The 4-H Youth Development Award went to Cathy Robinson for over 20 years of volunteer leadership. The Family Development Award went to Brie Burgess, co-owner of the Railhouse Restaurant in Waverly, for her partnership and fundraising support for the Waverly Family Resource Center. The Agriculture and Natural Resource Award went to Gail Lawson for her many years of service and volunteer leadership for the Tioga County Master Gardener Program. The Community Nutrition and Wellness Award went to Karen Rice from Tioga Opportunities, Inc. for her
PAGE 9
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JANUARY 2015
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
PAGE 10
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Low to moderate income individuals and families are invited to Participate in a Mobile Food Pantry Distribution sponsored by the Apalachin Lions Club in partnership with the Food Bank of the Southern Tier. The distribution will be held on Thursday, January 29, 1:00 to 2:00 pm, at St Margaret Mary’s Catholic Church parking lot, 110 Penn. Avenue,
in Apalachin. Please bring your own bags or boxes. Call Food Bank of the Southern Tier (607) 796-6061 with any questions. In addition to The Mobile Food Pantry, The Owego Apalachin Family Reading Partnership will be distributing free children's books.
Wine and Beer Tasting - January 16 The Owego Apalachin Foundation for Excellence in Education’s annual Wine and Beer Tasting will be held on January 16, 6:00 to 9:00 pm, at the Owego Treadway Inn. Hosted by the Owego Apalachin Foundation for Excellence in Education, this annual event is the primary fundraising initiative. Tom Westcott & Ultra Vibe will provide lively entertainment and local restaurants will provide scrumptious refreshments. Nearby wineries, breweries, and cheese houses will showcase their products with samples. Local businesses and residents generously provide a wide variety of goods and services for the silent auction that always generates excitement as the winning bids are announced.
Tickets are available now at Lawler’s Liquor Store, The Wine Connection, and any foundation board member. Pre-sale ticket prices: couple tickets $40, single tickets $25, designated driver $10. Atthe-door ticket prices: couple tickets $50 and $40 for single tickets. The Owego Apalachin Foundation for Excellence in Education is a nonprofit community organization that provides grants for innovative programs benefiting children in the area as well as scholarships to four Owego Free Academy (OFA) seniors who will pursue a career in a youth-oriented field. For more information, visit www.OAFoundation.com.
In Memory of Joan Battey By Donald Castellucci, Jr. Not many places are fortunate enough to have that one person in the community who exemplifies America, what it stood for and where it needs to get back to. The person, who could at any time say to you, “I told you so.” but was respectful enough to not embarrass you. The person who, understood most political ploys, how society is being manipulated through so called education and the new societal norms and could undress any politician or administrator by just placing the facts in front of them. The person who has so many national contacts, many of whom you read every day, yet you never know of the connection. That person lived right here in Apalachin. Her name was Joan Battey. Many of my friends have heard me refer to her as my second mom and her husband, Fred, my second dad. We go back 21 years now. I met her at her door as I embarked on my first political campaign. I remember it like it was yesterday. In 1993 I had submitted my petitions to the Board of Elections for a position on the Owego Town Board. I was new to the area and the political process. My petitions were challenged (rightfully so) and I was knocked off the ballot. I was so angry about it; I decided to run a write-in campaign. Being an amateur and naive, I let that anger translate into the literature I was handing out. That fateful day, I knock on Joan’s door! She was on the telephone. I handed her my literature and was on my way. On my way back up the other side of the street, Joan was outside waiting for me! I remember the call: “Young man, young man come over here!” She read me the riot act! “You cannot be negative like this if you want to get into politics.” And the lecture went on. I explained my side and while she understood she did not back away from her point. We exchanged pleasantries and I was on my way. I don’t remember how we began to be in contact but we did. She spoke at local Republican functions. I would think this lady had some extreme ideas, but I listened. She never said anything that she could not back up with facts. As time went on our relationship grew. She provided more information than anyone could read. If you needed anything she and Fred would have it at their
fingertips (That is true to this day). The more I read the more outraged I would get. The country I was raised to love and respect was/is being dismantled from within. When you start to look how agendas are connected you have a whole new perspective. I think the most important thing Joan taught me was to connect the dots. Do not look at issues as silos. The connections are there for anyone who wants to find them. I do not want this to be a political piece so I will stop there! Joan Battey reached out and did more for this country than most Americans. She touched the lives of so many people but she never had any idea of how many. I would feel bad when she would get frustrated because I knew she felt like what she did was for nothing. Results don’t happen overnight. She has created more patriots then she will ever now. I would consider her the Matriarch of the Tea Party in many ways and most people who know her would agree! She was Tea Party when the Tea Party wasn’t cool! This is why I have faith in the next generation. The educational email loop she and Fred organized and shared information with from parents, school board personnel and politicians from almost all 50 states was second to none. The columnists, many of which you read, officials from within the Reagan Administration, right down to the next door neighbor were all part of her network. No one was too little or too big. I was blessed to have met Joan and Fred. This community had one of America’s greatest defenders living within it. Not many people knew and that is how she would want it. The prize was not fame or notoriety, it was getting back America to the country it once was. Joan’s job and accomplishments are finished. It’s time the next generation takes the mantle. Over the next couple of months I am going to try and find a couple of my past columns that Joan inspired within me. I am sure the naysayers of the past will see the reality of today. Ronald Reagan stated, “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction.” Joan understood that, do you? God Bless you, Joan, and rest in peace. You deserve it after a job well done.
JANUARY 2015
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
Local Students Win Poster Contest
PAGE 11
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
2014 - The Year in Review by Town of Owego Supervisor Donald Castellucci, Jr.
Tioga County winners (Rear, L-R) Nathan Ackley and Olivia Nittinger of Chemung Elementary and (Front, L-R) Kohen Hugo, Alissa Moreno and Andrew Larrabee of Lincoln Street Elementary were among 27 elementary students who were presented awards for their creative entries in YES! Safe Choices for Kids’ Red Ribbon Week Poster Contest. Over 1,000 elementary school student Each of the young artists was artists from Tioga, Broome, and presented with a personalized certificate Chenango Counties entered the YES! and Toys "R" Us gift card. Safe Choices for Kids Red Ribbon Week Red Ribbon Week is one of the oldest Poster Contest held this fall. The 27 and largest drug prevention programs in winners were recognized recently at a the nation. The tradition of displaying reception held at the B-Sens Arena Club Red Ribbons is a symbol of intolerance in Binghamton. towards the use of drugs. Students used In Tioga County, winning posters their creativity and knowledge about the were designed by Andrew Larrabee, dangers of alcohol and drugs to design Alissa Moreno and Kohen Hugo of original artwork for the YES! Red Lincoln Street Elementary and Olivia Ribbon Week Poster Contest. Nittinger, Makenzie Nichols, Nathan YES! Safe Choices or Kids is a Ackley and Karalyn Hollenbeck of partnership between Senator Tom Chemung Elementary. Libous and Lourdes Hospital. YES! “This contest is a great way for kids to works to help kids in our area learn learn about the dangers of drugs and skills they need to resist using alcohol alcohol at an early age,” Senator Libous and drugs. YES! also provides parents said. “It’s a fun, creative chance for kids with useful tips and fun activities they to take a stand and develop skills that can use as starting points in talking will help them make safe choices as they about substance abuse with their kids. get older.” www.YesSafeChoices.org
Beginning January 1, 2014, the minimum usage charge for water bills will be based on a minimum usage of up to six thousand gallons at a rate of $34.00, an increase of $2 plus the $6 billing fee for a total of $40.00 per cycle. There will be a charge of $5.00 per thousand gallons for additional usage. Capital charges will not increase and will remain at $120.00 per year. Sewer bills will be based on a minimum usage up to six thousand gallons at the rate of $40.00, an increase of $2. There will be a charge of $5.50/ per thousand gallons for additional usage. The capital charge per unit will remain at $110.52, the same as 2014. Homes that have municipal sewer but do not have municipal water will be increased $24 to $348.00 per year ($116.00/bill) for sewer use and the sewer capital fee will remain at $110.52 per year. Several important projects still need to be completed within the utilities department. These include the Main Street water pump house, which was finally approved by FEMA with the help of federal officials, and mitigations at the Apalachin sewage treatment plant that are is still pending approval from FEMA three years later. A new state mandate regarding disinfection upgrades to the Owego sewage treatment plant has been mostly funded by a Water Quality Improvement Grant in the amount of $748,000 dollars on a project cost of approximately $880,000. While this grant is appreciated, it is another example of a mandate not funded in the amount of approximately $132,000. The awarded bid for the Main Street project went to G DeVincentis and Son in the amount of $653,000. The Apalachin Creek project was completed helping to protect an important sewer line that was heavily damaged in the 2011 flood. In 2015 the start of a public works project on Newberry and Lancaster Roads in
Crestview Heights will begin. We continue to implement an estimated five year rate structure to help reduce our reliance on fund balance and have a truer revenue vs expense budget. Lastly after declining water usage, creating less revenue for the town, we appear to have bottomed out. In 2005 usage peaked at about 200,000,000 gallons. In 2013 and 2014 usage is about 156,000,000 gallons. It is imperative to be able to try and accurately predict revenue while trying to address aging infrastructure, increasing costs as well as federal and state mandates. While the town is continuing to recover from the 2011 flood, there is still a lot that remains to be completed. Recently the town finished closing on, and demolishing, 23 properties at a cost of 1.8 million dollars. This was covered 75% by the federal government and 25% by the state. There are several elevation project applications that are in progress as well. Also the town, in conjunction with the village, is moving forward on a joint DPW building to be located on the town hall property. The project has received preliminary approval and will be moving forward in an incremental approval process implemented by the federal and state government. Hopefully I have created a snapshot of 2014 in an understandable manner that explains the narrative of positive projects happening in the town as well as the costs that accompany them. My goal, as well as the board, is to continue to identify and evaluate long term solutions to issues in the most fiscal responsible way possible. I look forward to working with the residents of the town over the next year. I am privileged to enter my 20th year in public service and I would like to personally thank all of the residents for that honor. May all of you have a happy, healthy and blessed new year!
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JANUARY 2015 PAGE 12 ___
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
Tioga Downs Donates towards Bandera Family Christmas Dinner
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Tioga Downs Casino has generously donated $3,300 towards the Bandera Family Christmas Dinner. Christmas 2014 marked the 25th Anniversary of the event. Thanks to the donation from Tioga Downs, the dinner was able to serve up to 4,000 free dinners on Christmas Day. Without the donation, they would have been able to serve only 1,500 dinners. The dinners were at the Binghamton
Post 80 American Legion. President of Tioga Downs Casino, Tom Osiecki presented the check for $3,300 to Bill Bandera at Tioga Downs Casino. Tioga Downs is always proud to contribute back to the community that supports them. Tioga Downs Casino is located along the north side of NY Route 17/ I-86, two miles west of exit 62 in Nichols, NY.
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MARY
JANUARY 2015
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
Partnership keeps some bus service in Tioga The Tioga Rides system was discontinued after November 30; however, the neighboring county of Chemung has partnered with Tioga County and New York State Department of Transportation to preserve some east west connections for riders. Starting December 1st, Chemung County’s C TRAN system will pilot four bus runs departing from Elmira and serving both counties on weekdays. Both Tioga and Chemung counties experienced significant funding losses due to a change in the administration of Medicaid funding. County leaders are pleased to see some service saved through this new partnership. Tioga County Legislative Chair Martha Sauerbrey said, “Due to the Medicaid funding loss, Tioga County was unable to sustain our transit system both now and in the future, but this new partnership will allow us to meet the needs of some of our most vulnerable residents—people with disabilities, the poor, and seniors.” Chemung County Executive Tom Santulli agreed with the benefits to the area, “Chemung County has had many successes in sharing services. Our legislature is pleased to see the shared regional effort with Tioga County that combines funding to create a win-win situation.” Prior to the establishment of the new pilot service, C TRAN proposed elimi-
nation of the Wellsburg-Waverly route. Chemung County held two public hearings on proposed changes that began for C TRAN on November 17. During the hearings several Chemung County and Tioga County riders expressed to the Legislature their use of the WellsburgWaverly run for access to healthcare services at the Robert Packer Hospital. At a Tioga County public hearing, families of Achieve clients expressed the importance of transit service to maintain independence for their loved ones with developmental disabilities. The new service will have three runs with an end destination of Owego that will depart Elmira at 6:45 am, 11:00 am, and 1:00 pm. The last run on the new route will travel between Elmira and Sayre, PA, departing Elmira at 4:30 pm. The fare will be $3 from Elmira to Sayre and from Sayre to Owego, and $6 from Elmira to Owego. The counties will evaluate the success of the pilot service in mid-2015. The new service will complement the Coach USA Shortline service that runs from Elmira to Waverly, Owego, and Binghamton and returns three times daily. Riders seeking additional information on the C TRAN service should contact the customer service department at (607) 734-5211.
Tourism Office Disappointed in Gaming Decision December 17, 2014 Owego, NY - The Tioga County Tourism Office is disappointed in the decision of the New York State Gaming Commission not to recommend Tioga Downs Casino for the Southern Tier Gaming License. Tioga County businesses, the local and regional economy, and the local workforce would have benefitted greatly from the expansion of this important business and tourism attraction. “We are sad for the hardworking business owners and residents of Tioga County, Tioga Downs Casino, and the Southern Tier region, for being overlooked in this decision. However, we look forward to working with Tioga Downs Casino, and to their continued involvement as a generous and responsible community partner and tourist attraction,” said Rebecca Maffei, Tioga County Tourism Director. Tioga County Tourism is proud to support the tourism businesses whose owners and employees work hard to make our county a unique, authentic
place to visit and to live. We will continue in our efforts to work alongside community organizations and tourism businesses to promote the wonderful events, communities, activities, and attractions in Tioga County. We have faith in the strength, ingenuity and resiliency of our residents. Tioga County Tourism will continue to work alongside community members to support economic growth and spread the word that Tioga County is a fun, dynamic, beautiful, and special place to experience. “Tioga Downs’ expansion would have been a boon to our local and regional economy, but our community has always grown at a grassroots level. We have many local businesses, government agencies, residents, and organizations that are moving things forward from the county and community levels. I expect new and exciting things to come in the tourism sector of our economy, which supports independent businesses and helps contribute to a high quality of life,” said Maffei.
WEB EXTRA PAGE 1
Thank You for Help with Blood Drive Dear Editor I am writing to thank everyone who helped make the 18th Annual Memorial Blood Drive in memory of my parents a success. Without the combined efforts of many people and businesses, we would not be able to continue this drive. Thirty -five units of blood were collected in turn helping 105 patients. Thank you to the Owego Elks for hosting this event for the past 18 years. Thank you to the Red Cross employees who always do their best to make sure everyone is treated well and timely. TOPS Markets, Owego, The Ale House, Vestal, and Jim Roma’s Endicott, always
contribute items toward the dinner. Thank you to the media for always making sure the word gets out. Most importantly I thank the donors, who come each year donating blood, and contributing food and dollars in my parents’ memory to the Tioga County Rural Ministry. Lives are saved and people are fed each year during the season where giving is most noticed. Thank you for the continued support and for giving the most important gift: the gift of life. Sincerely, Donald Castellucci, Jr. Town of Owego Supervisor
Apalachin Lions Club: “Thanks” A long standing tradition in Apalachin has been the Apalachin Lions Christmas Basket Program. This year 57 families were provided with boxes of food, gift certificates for food, and gift certificates for children 12 and under. On average each family received a package worth approximately $150. Although this program is spearheaded by the Lions, it is a total effort by many people and organization in Apalachin, Campville east to the Broome County line and Little Meadows, PA. All the food and toys come from community efforts and the Lions club furnishes approximately $4000 in gift certificates.
The Apalachin Lions Club wishes to thank the following for donations or assistance with this effort: Apalachin Post Office, Apalachin Pharmacy, Apalachin Elementary School, Frontier Telephone Co., O-A Family Reading Partnership, St. Margaret Mary’s Church, Target, Tioga Hills Elementary School, Sweeney’s Market, Tioga County Marine Corps League, Stroehmann’s Bakery, and White Tails Bar and Grill in Little Meadows. In addition to the named donors, many contributions of food gift cards or assistance were received from throughout the area.
News Briefs The Local VMW - Veterans of Modern Warfare - normally meet on the first Saturday of the month at Owego's Historic First Baptist Church, Church and Main Streets, at 11:00 am. Use the back ramp entrance. All Vets are welcome, especially those from Desert Storm and subsequent conflicts. See you the second Saturday of the New Year on January 10. Call Bill Reynolds at (607) 644-5690 with questions/comments. The Monday Afternoon Book Club meets the second Monday of each month, from 1:00 to 2:00 pm at the Coburn Library, 275 Main Street in Owego (687-3520). The Tioga County Industrial Development Agency 2015 Annual Meeting and 1st Regular Meeting are scheduled for Wednesday, January 7, 2015. The annual meeting will commence at 5:00 pm with the 1st regular meeting immediately following at 5:30 pm. Meetins are held at the Ronald E. Dougherty County Office Building, 56 Main Street, Owego in the Hubbard Auditorium.
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CCE’s Newsletter for Farmers, Gardeners The Chemung and Tioga Associations of Cornell Cooperative Extension have teamed up to create a newsletter to provide farmers and gardeners with information on upcoming meetings, updates, strategies, cultural practices, marketing ideas and research results from Cornell University and Cornell Cooperative Extension. “Agriculture is a vital part of our regional economy,” stated Andy Fagan, Executive Director of CCE Chemung and CCE Tioga. “It is more important than ever that Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chemung and Tioga Counties help farmers find and apply the latest information and technology on their farms. Therefore, I am pleased to announce this joint effort of the agriculture programs of each association.” The first issue, published last month, offers articles highlighting topics that range from blueberries to record keep-
ing. “We know that farming in Tioga and Chemung Counties is diverse. With an increased interest in locally grown food among consumers, more people are interested in raising their own food. Others are interested in purchasing that which is grown locally. Our newsletter is one way we will share information to help all producers - large and small, grow and market their products and build successful businesses” added Michele Kline, Ag Team Leader at the Tioga Association of CCE. If interested in receiving the monthly newsletter, contact Michele Kline by email at ms328@cornell.edu or phone (607) 687-4020 to join the mailing list. Print copies are available for farmers and gardeners at the local CCE Offices in Chemung County at 425 Pennsylvania Avenue in Elmira and Tioga County at 56 Main Street in Owego.
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USDA To Survey Milk Production In January, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will reach out to milk producers across the country to begin collecting information for the 2015 Milk Production report. “NASS surveys milk producers quarterly to create an accurate estimate of milk production in all states in the Northeast and the nation,” said Statistician Adam Pike. NASS conducts the Milk Production survey every January, April, July, and October. In the Northeast, NASS will survey 2882 dairy farmers this year asking them to provide the number of milk cows in the herd, number of cows milked and total milk production for the first day of the month. The dairy industry relies on the monthly Milk Production report to make decisions about the marketing of milk.
By participating in the survey, milk producers can ensure that NASS provides timely, accurate and objective data that all sectors of the U.S. milk industry depend on to help make sound business decisions. “At NASS we have a strong commitment to respondent confidentiality,” Pike said. “We are required by law to protect the privacy of all responses and publish data only in aggregate form, ensuring that no individual producer or operation can be identified,” he said. Survey results will be published in the monthly Milk Production report. All NASS reports are available online at www.nass.usda.gov. Both national and state specific reports are available via a free email subscription. For more information, call the NASS Northeastern Regional Field Office at 1-800-4981518.
Volunteers Need for Crisis Hotline A New Hope Center is looking for volunteers to staff the 24 hour crisis hotline, to provide support, counseling, and crisis intervention services. Upon completion of the classes, volunteers are eligible to receive NYS DOH Rape Crisis Counselor certification, and help people from your home. Classes are scheduled to begin Monday, January 26, 2015, and will run once a week for ten (10) weeks. Classes will be held from 5:30 to 8:30 pm each week,
at the New Hope Center offices at 20 Church Street in Owego. Please pre-register and get the details to attend the training. To register, call the office at 687-6887 or send an email to franb@anewhopecenter.org. Registration can also be made through Facebook at A New Hope Center. A New Hope Center is a NYS Licensed organization providing comprehensive, progressive services for victims of abuse.
4-H to Offer Bird & Poultry Projects The Tioga County 4-H Program is now offering three different 4-H bird and poultry projects for youth 9 to 19 years old. 4-H Fall Market Turkey Project The 4-H Program has partnered with the Owego Kiwanis, to offer a first year pilot of the 4-H Fall Turkey Project. A Kiwanis sponsor will purchase six birds for the participating 4-H member. The 4H member is responsible for all feeding and butchering costs. At the end of the project, the sponsor will get a bird free of charge. The 4-H 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. The maximum number of youth that will be accepted is 10. 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. This project is open to 4-H youth 9 to 19 years old. 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. The deadline to sign up for either the 4-H Turkey project and/or the 4-H Meat Bird project is Friday, Jan. 9, 2015. Youth must be enrolled in the 4-H Program before they can participate in these projects. There will be a mandatory information session on Saturday, Jan 10, 2015 at noon in the CCE Conference of the Ronald E. Dougherty County Office Building (formerly the Tioga County Office Building). . 4-H Ring Neck Pheasant Raise & Release project The 4-H Ring Neck Pheasant Raise & Release project is being made available
to 4-H through the DEC. 4-H families that are interested in participating in this project must attend a mandatory introductory meeting on Thursday, Feb 5, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m., in the CCE Conference of the Ronald E. Dougherty County Office Building (formerly the Tioga County Office Building). Following the introductory meeting, 4-H families will have until Feb. 27 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. Youth must be enrolled in the 4-H Program to be able to participate in this program. For those participating in the project, there are a number of responsibilities to plan on. The project leaders will review project requirements, discuss rearing techniques, and explain project expectations. The leaders will assist members in preparing rearing facilities and evaluate the release site before approving 4-H members for the project in order to ensure proper rearing and release conditions for the birds. Youth and project leaders will monitor progress together and share their experiences with other participants. The number of pheasants released must be recorded in the 4-H member’s project record book at the end of the project and sent to the 4-H Office. Those numbers must then be reported to the DEC. The rearing and release of pheasants requires a great deal of responsibility and time commitment by 4-H youth and families. So, why raise pheasants? Rearing pheasants is enjoyable, challenging and teaches youth responsible behavior. Released pheasants offer fall hunting opportunity. People enjoy seeing and hearing pheasants. To find out more about the Tioga County 4-H Program contact the 4-H Office, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Tioga County at 687-4020.