PRESORTED
CARRIER ROUTE POSTAL CUSTOMER
BROWN ENTERPRISE AND MARKETING 7830 STATE ROUTE 434 APALACHIN, NEW YORK 13732
YOUR HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER • Volume 36
STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #9 APALACHIN, NY
www.CommunityPress.us
JANUARY 2021
Tom Kelley Named Apalachin Lions “Lion of the Year”
Number 1
The Town of Owego: 2020 in Review Looking Ahead to 2021 By Donald Castellucci, Jr., Town of Owego Supervisor
Lion Naomi Rupright (left) presents the Apalachin Lion of the Year Award for 2020 to Lion Tom Kelley Lion Tom Kelley was named the Apalachin Lions Club’s “Lion of the Year” for the 2019 - 2020 Lions year. Lion Tom has been an active member of the Apalachin Lions for over 25 years, serving as Bulletin editor, Lion Tamer, and board member several times. Lion Tom was also presented the “District Bulletin Editor of the Year” award by the Finger Lakes District. He has served the community in providing
Eye Screenings for children, manning the phones for Santa at “Santa Phones” and working on the annual Broom Sale. He is also the club photographer, and if you have ever seen Emmett Kelley at the annual Easter Egg Hunt, that’s Lion Tom! Congratulations Lion Tom Kelley. This award is well deserved. You exemplify the Lions motto, WE SERVE!
Girl Scouts 2021 Cookie Season
Scouts to Team Up with Local Businesses Organizations Local troops need places to safely host drive-thru cookie booths and handle program logistics due to the pandemic The Girl Scouts of NYPENN Pathways (GSNYPENN) Council serves girls in grades K-12 across 26 counties including Tioga and Broome Counties in New York and Bradford and Tioga Counties in Pennsylvania. The council is looking for help from local businesses and community organizations to help local girls have a positive and successful cookie season despite the continuing pandemic. The GSNYPENN council is looking to connect with area businesses or community organizations in high-traffic areas with large parking lots to allow girls and their troop leaders to safely host drive-thru cookie booths beginning in February to maintain social distancing, abide by Covid-19 protocols, and continue to serve the community. Troops also need inside, secure locations to set up and provide cookie delivery, storage, and pickup. Places like empty storefronts, unoccupied businesses, etc. The annual cookie program runs through the end of March and helps power Girl Scouts’ activities for the year through experiences like community service projects, badge work, camp, travel and more all while girls gain important entrepreneurial, business and life skills. This major fundraiser is the life-
blood of the council—100 percent of proceeds (after paying the baker) are used to maintain the properties and programs used by local troops throughout the year. “We’re looking to help our GSNYPENN Girl Scouts have a positive and successful 2021 cookie program by connecting with our local communities to help host drive-thru booths and provide safe, secure locations for girls’ cookie season logistics. We’re getting creative to overcome the challenges our troops will once again face due to the pandemic,” says Ray Mulno, Director of Retail Operations & Product Programs at GSNYPENN. The council requires use of locations beginning in early February through the end of March. It will provide insurance information for business owners and organizations. Those who can assist will receive publicity through the official Girl Scout Cookie Finder app, GSNYPENN Community Partners Facebook page and any cookie season advertising the council places - which will, in turn, help drive additional customers to these businesses and community organizations’ locations. If your business or organization can help local Girl Scouts, contact Ray Mulno at rmulno@gsnypenn.org or 315.698.9400 x2022.
With 2020 finally behind us, hopefully 2021 will bring some normalcy back to our lives. The year certainly wouldn’t go away quietly! Forty inches of snow followed by three inches of rain caused some minor flooding. The storm lead to some flooding in Hickories Park and some minor flooding in areas along the river and creeks. The area really dodged a bullet. I was very thankful the community was spared the devastation of another flood, especially on Christmas Day. I hope your Christmas and holiday was blessed with family and friends. Our way of life has certainly changed this year. We may not have been able to celebrate exactly like we wanted but the reason for the season remains constant. As I begin my 26th year in office, I look to the many challenges that still lie ahead. COVID will remain front and center, the economy will remain fragile, and we will still face obstacles as the year progresses. How we deal with those obstacles is what will determine how successful we will be, as individuals and as a community. The Town government has been determined and prepared in dealing with COVID. At the same time, we have not lived in fear. Most in the community have followed safe practices and the results of that are evident. If you drive by the Town Hall, you have noticed the Shared Services Facility is in its final phase of construction. There have been delays due to COVID and the availability of timely delivery of materials and supplies. Overall, the project has moved smoothly. The cost of construction is still projected at 9.4 million dollars with a plus or minus of $250,000. The process during construction has created some cost savings. There have also been some additional costs incurred as well. We have to see at the end of construction what those costs net out to be. It is anticipated that the Parks Department and the Administrative offices of the Utilities Department will be moving in late January through early February. The Highway Department will move in at the end of the snow season as to not have to operate out of different locations during storm events. I will have a financial update on Phase One of the project at the completion of construction. Phase Two of the project is going to be completed in 2021. The Board is currently discussing the financing and final design. It is estimated to be a cost of about 3.3 million dollars. The Town has secured a $500,000 grant so far to date for the construc-
tion of the salt storage facility. Phase Two is projected to consist of the new salt barn, cold storage for equipment not used in the winter, a storage yard for highway materials and a drop off for Town of Owego residents to drop off brush. The final costs and design will be forthcoming at some point in January. When this project is complete, the Town will be better prepared for emergencies as well as be able to respond quicker and more efficiently. You only have to look a few weeks back to see that Owego Creek almost flooded again. This could have resulted in the flooding of the current highway facility for the third time in 14 years. You can also see the advantage of moving the Parks Department to the town hall site. After 2011, the Town along with FEMA completed restoration and replacement projects which included electrical replacement, the new entrance, directional drill for the water and sewer lines and a new Park Office at the camping sites. All other assets have been moved to the Town Hall and now will be part of the Shared Services Facility. While this past week, the flooding was not nearly as severe, it was evident how quickly the park was able to reopen. There was also no worry about equipment being damaged. The Town budget can be found on the Town website. We were under the tax cap for the fourth year in a row. Although many believe the tax cap is 2%, it is actually 2% or the rate of inflation, whichever is lower. This year it was 1.56%. It has been lower. Many of you know I refer to this as the “tax cap scam.” It is Albany political gamesmanship pointing the fingers at everyone but the one who has the deficit, Albany. You can’t be under the tax cap and have over a 15-billion-dollar deficit. (other than in Albany and Washington!) (continued on page 7)
JANUARY 2021
Martin
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
COVID-19 Update From Tioga Co. Public Health Dept.
Plumbing & Heating Quality Reliable Service 3908 Waverly Road, Owego, New York 13827 (607) FURNACES BOILERS WATER HEATERS GOULDS WATER PUMPS PLUMBING FIXTURES SEWER & DRAIN CLEANING WATER CONDITIONING AIR CONDITIONING
687-1295
“ON THE RUN AROUND THE CLOCK”
PAGE 2
December 30, 2020 Tioga County COVID-19 Vaccination Updates Currently, the COVID-19 vaccination process is taking place at a regional level with the Governor making the determination when the vaccine can be given to the next population on the prioritization list. New York State is in Phase 1A of Distribution, which covers the following priority groups: • Healthcare personnel (i.e., paid and unpaid personnel working in a healthcare setting) • First responders in medical roles, such as emergency medical services providers • Medical examiners and coroners, funeral workers • Ambulatory care providers • Long-term care facilities (LTCFs) staff and residents, including congregate settings overseen by Office of People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), Office of Mental Health (OMH), and
Lawnmowers, Small Engines - Repaired Alternators, Starters, Generators, Motors - Rebuilt
TIME TO GET YOUR
SNOWBLOWER CHECKED OUT AND READY FOR WINTER
Van Dervort Repair And Rebuild Service
185 Shady Hill Road, Apalachin 625-4658 PICKUP AND DELIVERY AVAILABLE
Serving Tioga & Broome County For over 25 years!
Office of Addiction Service and Support (OASAS) New York State will likely be in Phase 1A for the next several weeks. Residents of Tioga County that are eligible to receive vaccination at this time are being notified and directed on how to be vaccinated. At this time, Tioga County does not have a confirmed date to receive vaccine; however, this could change based on directives from the Governor. In Phase 1A, the only administering entities are hospitals, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), and in some counties, Point of Dispensing sites run by the Local Health Department. Please note that this decision was made by the Governor’s Office. Distribution is subject to a variety of factors, with the main factor being the availability of the vaccine, which is limited. Availability is expected to become less of an issue over the next few months, as New York State is now administering both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine. Katie Wait, Tioga County Public Health’s Vaccine Initiative Coordinator, asks, “Please be patient with us as we work through this process. We understand that you have questions that are
unanswered, and we understand that is frustrating however, we will update you with any new information we receive as soon as it becomes available.” Our team here at Public Health is experiencing a higher than normal call volume with questions regarding when a particular population will be receiving their vaccine. As our phone lines are very busy, we would appreciate limiting your calls on this until we receive more information. We will continue to put out updates as they come down from New York State, so please continue to follow our Facebook Page and Website for future updates. Tioga County Public Health, along with our planning partners from Tioga County Office of Emergency Services, Local School Superintendents, Department of Social Services, Waverly Police Department, and The Tioga County Legislature, are focusing planning efforts on when the vaccine becomes widely available at the community level. Again, we kindly ask that you remain patient with us, and we will publish any new information as it is released.
Curbside Recycling Changes in Tioga County What and why curbside recycling is changing in Tioga County Tioga County has provided residents with countywide curbside recycling collection since 1992. In June of 2020, Tioga County went out to bid for this service and the lowest bid came in at more than double the current rate. Due to this rate more than doubling the current rates, the county could not increase taxes without exceeding the NYS mandated 2% tax increase rate cap. The tax cap is important to stay under because other county programs rely on the funding that is tied to staying under the cap. Staying below the cap also drives the property tax relief check that residents may receive from New York State. Recycling Is NOT going away! You are still required to recycle. What is going away is the “RECYCLE” tax levy on your county tax bill and the county contracting for curbside recycling. As of December 31, 2020, the county curbside recycling contract with Taylor Garbage came to an end. Residents are
required to contract with a private hauler for recycling pickup starting January 1, 2021. Two new businesses have opened and there are four options for Tioga County for curbside recycling only as well as curbside trash & recycling collection. They are: 1. B&E Disposal (607) 699-3406 2. Taylor Garbage (607) 797-5277 3. Bert Adams Disposal (607) 648-4863 4. RPM Group (607) 223-8714 Casella (607) 358-7771 provides only curbside trash & recycling collection in Tioga County. According to Taylor Garbage, starting January 1, 2021, residents are no longer allowed to drop recycling off at their transfer stations, only trash. Residents were originally told that they would be able to drop recycling off at one of the transfer stations in the county based on information from the NYS Department of Conservation (NYSDEC); however, NYSDEC came back later and said this is not the case.
New Cleaning Service in So. Tier Aiming to Combat COVID-19
Apalachin, NY (607) 625-3131 or (607) 754-2541
We bring our samples to your home or business to see in your lighting conditions. Free Consultation ~ Free Installation
• Draperies • Top Treatments • Vertical Blinds • Mini Blinds • Cellular Shades • Roller Shades • All Top Brands
In today’s world, peace of mind when it comes to cleanliness is paramount at home and in public spaces. In fact, according to Deloitte, 60% of customers and employees say being constantly able to see a business’ cleaning efforts is the most important part of the experience. Superior UV is a cutting-edge cleaning service founded in California and with branches in Pennsylvania and New York, that employs top-of-the-line, medical-grade technology to provide thorough cleaning and sanitizing services for residential and commercial needs. The company’s highly effective and budget friendly approach centers upon the cleaning capabilities of ultraviolet-c (UVC) radiation. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA,) UVC radiation has been used for decades for its germicidal properties which reduce the spread of diseases such as tuberculosis. Since the emergence of the coronavirus pandemic, there has been increased interest in UVC technology, and for good reason. UVC radiation is proven to destroy the outer protein coating of viruses like the coronavirus. UVC light damages the DNA or RNA code of these pathogens, and when it does so, it triggers lethal mutations that prevent viruses and bacteria from reproducing. “We are excited to bring Superior UV to the Southern Tier as a resource for individuals and businesses looking to ensure that their space, and the people in it, are safe from viruses and bacteria,”
said Stephen Donnelly, President of UV New York LLC, the New York franchisee for Superior UV. Donnelly added that the UV cleaning process is nontoxic, making it a safer, less costly and more effective alternative to harsh cleaning products. To inquire about commercial or residential cleaning services from Superior UV, go to www. superioruvc.com. Tioga County's
COMMUNITY PRESS
Volume 36 Number 1 January 2021 © 2021 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 2021
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
PAGE 3
Toys, Toys, Toys! 19 Delaware Ave., Endicott, NY 13760
CALL 607-754-0707 • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INSTALLATIONS •
NO JOB TOO SMALL General Home Repairs Basic Chores
Call Barry Vallequette at: 607-725-7556 Tioga County Rural Ministry (TCRM) held its annual Toys for Tots distribution on Thursday, December 10 at the VFW in Owego. The distribution served 111 families. Due to COVID, only ten families were able to shop at a time.
TCRM would like to thank the VFW for hosting the distribution and the US Marines for the abundance of toys. Thanks also to all the various other groups and individuals who provided toys or volunteered their time to make the distribution a success.
At the Apalachin Library 719 Main Street, Apalachin, NY 625-3333 www.apalachinlibrary.org Hours: M. Tu, Th 10am-7pm; Fr, Sa 10am-2pm Story Hour Tuesdays, 10:30am, via Zoom Story Hour will continue on Tuesdays, January 5, 12, 19, and 26 at 10:30 am. Miss Wendy will have your craft bags ready, as usual. If you can let her know ahead of time that you need bags, that would be helpful. Legos Saturday, January 16, 11 am Find the link on Facebook or email Brianna for more information. Closed January 18 The Apalachin Library will be closed on January 18, Martin Luther King Day. Friends of the Library Meeting January 18, 6:30 pm If the meeting is via Zoom, library staff will send out the link and put it on Facebook. It’s time to have elections and some changes to the by-laws. If you would like to be considered for the position of president or treasurer, let Cathy Sorber or Kaela Chase know. COVID During this time of COVID, libraries are being very careful. The Apalachin Library quarantines everything that comes in the book drop for 7 days as does the Finger Lakes System. This is
why it’s taking longer to get items from other libraries. If you notice that things aren’t coming off your card as quickly as they used to, it’s probably due to quarantining. Books donated for the Book Barn are quarantined before they go into the barn. Budget Cuts Because of state budget cuts, the Finger Lakes Library System has had to reduce staff. Instead of 3 drivers they only have one. Most libraries are getting fewer deliveries per week. The Apalachin Library has gone from 3 weekly deliveries to 2.
LUKE
CHRIS
8240 Route 434
Apalachin
JOHN
(1.4 miles east of Pa. Ave.)
(607)
258-0008
Mon–Fri 8am–5pm Oil Changes • Tires •Batteries & All Repairs
Rick Pedro PIANO TUNING & REPAIR 15% off your first tuning
The Book Barn The Book Barn will remain closed until the end of January. At that time, the library staff will reassess opening. The library staff will be taking book donations (no encyclopedias, text books, condensed books or magazines.) New Non-Fiction Books “Wintering” by Katherine May, “Keep Moving” by Maggie Smith, “Stamped” by Jason Reynolds (YA), and “Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future” by Ashlee Vance.
607 222 4096 rpedro1@stny.rr.com
www.rickpedro.com
Tioga Downs Appoints New Director of Security Tioga Downs Casino Resort has announced the addition of Robert Otto in the position of Regional Director of Security. Mr. Otto comes to Tioga Downs with more than 30 years of law enforcement experience, which includes a distinguished career with the Philadelphia Police Department. A graduate of Chestnut Hill College with a degree in criminal justice, Mr. Otto joined the Philadelphia Police Department as an officer and rose through the ranks to Lieutenant, where he assisted with the oversight of all investigative and specialized tactical units for the entire depart-
ment. Mr. Otto has extensive education in his field, having attended the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command, the Penn State University Police Executive Development Program and the Penn State University Police Supervisory Program. He has also received numerous commendations and awards from the Philadelphia Police Department, community organizations, private sector organizations, and local and state legislative bodies such as Philadelphia City Council and State Representatives.
IS YOU CAR READY FOR VACATION?
TIRES • BATTERIES • OIL CHANGES CAR CLEANING & POLISHING
NEED A TOW? IN AN ACCIDENT? REQUEST THE POLICE TO CALL BECK’S! • Daily & Weekly Rentals • Direct Billing to Insurance Co. •
5780 Route 434, Apalachin, NY 13732 Rental
625-9904
Towing 625-5653
members call us directly
JANUARY 2021
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
PAGE 4
5th Graders Celebrate Holidays with Community Box Project
Serving Lunch & Dinner or Just a Snack! Stop in and try our Homemade Soup Specials
We are open for TAKE OUT or DINE IN
The Terrace The Friendly Neighborhood Tavern Rt. 434, Apalachin, New York 625-3935
www.NikosAutoDetailing.COM
E FREATES IM EST
A holiday tradition that completes a social studies unit on wants and needs, the 5th Grade Community Box Project at Tioga Hills Elementary was continued in 2020, with some modifications due to COVID-19. Facilitated by the 5th grade teachers each year, the students also learned a lesson in kindness and giving back to the community. Students and their families filled the shoe boxes with personal care items at home. Then, during their in-person day of attendance the week of December 7 11, 2020, student cohorts wrapped their boxes in the classroom and walked them down Glann Road to the Park Terrace Community Food Pantry, housed in the basement of the Park Terrace Methodist Church. Ben Cucci, founder of the nonprofit Nathan’s Butterflies, is a student in Mrs. Schake’s class. He helped secure donations for 15 additional boxes to add to the class’s total, as well as bulk amounts of face masks and hand sanitizers to be included in each family’s box this year. Altogether, the students delivered 55 hand-wrapped, hand-decorated shoe boxes filled with personal care items to
the Apalachin Food Pantry. Students also received a tour of the pantry from Brenda Cronk, the mother of 5th grade teacher Sarah Gilliland, and a codirector of the food pantry. After each tour, Mrs. Cronk explained to the students that the families who rely on the food pantry throughout the year really appreciate the community boxes of toiletries that the students donate during the holidays, as they are not able to provide such items through the pantry. She thanked them for all they do for this project, and how nice they make the boxes look.
607-759-9282 • Apalachin, NY Landscaping Stream & Ditch Repair Gravel –Mulch—Topsoil Excavation New Lawn Installation
Brush Hogging Water Drainage Retaining Walls Paver Walkways & Patios
Email: mwbmwmrw@aol.com www.MikesGroundworks.com
ANE EAMLESS UTTERS
FULLY INSURED
• GUTTERS • FASCIA • SOFFIT • SIDING • DOORS • DECKS • WINDOWS
625-4076
• Free Estimates • Fully Insured • • Family Owned Since 1976 •
• Garry • Kevin • Rory •
Tioga Opportunities Kicks Off “Spirit of Hope” Fundraising Campaign Tioga Opportunities, Inc. has launched its first annual year-end fundraising campaign, Spirit of Hope, in an effort to further the organization’s mission to strengthen communities while empowering individuals and families to achieve independence and enrich their quality of life. In a Spirit of Hope, Tioga Opportunities, Inc. is asking for the support of the surrounding community with a tax-deductible donation in order to continue to respond to the evergrowing and changing needs that many people are facing in Tioga County. Donations to the campaign will play a vital role to ensure the level of service and response to those in need during the ongoing pandemic. The campaign will continue through January 31, 2021. “At the start of 2020, no one
knew what COVID-19 was and could not have imagined what the impact of a worldwide pandemic would have on our families, our neighbors, and our communities.” Said Maureen Abbott, Executive Director. “Tioga Opportunities, Inc. has stood steadfast in the face of these uncertain times. We have continued to provide much needed support and assistance to those in most need. Our doors have remained open and our staff were deemed essential workers who have continued to respond to our clients.” Secure online donations may be made on the agency’s website at www.tiogaopp.org/donate or mailed to Tioga Opportunities, Inc., Spirit of Hope Campaign, 9 Sheldon Guile Blvd., Owego, NY 13827. www.tiogaopp.org
JANUARY 2021
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
PAGE 5
New Owner for Apalachin Business
Chat-A-Wyle NOW OPEN FOR DINING INSIDE! PLUS TAKE-OUT Our Hours are: Monday thru Saturday 11am to 3 pm
Our regular menu is available for Take-Out or Dine In
Please call ahead for take out 607-625-2834 LIKE US ON FACEBOOK
Floyd and Maggie Wright (left) have taken over ownership of “Apalachin Auto” on Pennsylvania Ave. in Apalachin from Mike and Barbara Roberts (right). Mike will be helping Floyd during the transition. Mike’s future plans are to be the next Town of Owego Highway Superintendent.
2713 Pennsylvania Ave., Apalachin, NY 13732
Teresa Aveson Receives Distinguish Service Award
Floyd Wright Jr. “The Wright Choice” 607-625-5279 • www.ApalachinAuto.com
Pictured, left to right, Lion John Crosby, Teresa Aveson, and Linda Aveson. Teresa Aveson received the Robert J. Uplinger Award from the Apalachin Lions in recognition of her commitment and long-time dedication to the local Special Olympics program sponsored by the Apalachin Lions Club. The Apalachin Lions presented the Robert J. Uplinger Award to Teresa Aveson at her home on December 14, 2020, in recognition of her on-going support to the Apalachin Lions Special Olympics program for more than 25 years. The Robert J. Uplinger Distinguished Service Award (often referred to as the “RJU Award”) is presented by a Lions Club or District to a Lion or nonLion member of the community that has demonstrated a commitment to service over a period of time and that embodies
the ideals of the Lions motto “We Serve.” This significant recognition is offered through donations to the New York State & Bermuda Lions Foundation, which provides matching grants to Lions Clubs in Multiple District 20 for projects that benefit their local communities. The award includes an engraved plaque, lapel pin and letter of recognition. The RJU Award is named after Robert J. Uplinger, the first Lion from New York to be International President of Lions Clubs International.
$11.23 +tax
20 lb. Refill
116 Vestal Road, Vestal, New York 992 Conklin Road, Conklin, New York HOURS: Monday – Friday 8 am – 5 pm Conklin - Saturday 8 am – noon Vestal - Saturday 8 am - 2 pm
CALL FOR COMPETITIVE PRICES • 748-3989 •
PROPANE FUEL OIL • KEROSENE
WOOD PELLETS & COAL by the Bag
New Broil King gas grills in stock fully assembled
(L to R) Lion John Whiting, Teresa Aveson, Linda Aveson and Lion Sue Whiting.
Gas grill parts for all makes of grills in stock! Call for Furnace Installation Estimates
JANUARY 2021
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
Code Enforcement Officer Job Opening The Village of Spencer is actively seeking an individual for the position of Code Enforcement Officer. The position requires a minimum of 10 hours per week. The qualified candidate should have the following abilities: 1. The ability to utilize Microsoft Office software. 2. The ability to read and understand blue prints. 3. The ability to read and interpret the NYS Building Codes. 4. The ability to climb stairs and walk at construction sites. The candidate must currently be certified as a NY State Code Enforcement
Officer or willing to complete an 18-day certification program over a 6-month period. Additionally, the candidate must obtain 24 hours of continuing education credits yearly and be available to attend Village board meetings. If you are interested in the position, please drop off resume at the Village of Spencer Village Hall at 41 N. Main Street or mail a resume to the Village of Spencer, PO Box 346, Spencer, NY 14883. http://www.villageofspencer.com
2 0 2 1
Sk
yl
ine
vi Ser
Y gN n i v Ser
Wishing You A Better 2021
ces &
PA
We have HOT deals on Insurance for you!
1-800-258-9404
Call us for your Home & Auto Insurance needs!
PAGE 6
Floyd Hooker Fund Youth Grants Awarded The Board of Directors of the Community Foundation for the Twin Tiers has approved the 2020 Floyd Hooker Fund youth grants for Tioga, County NY. The awards total $18,100 to 4 nonprofit organizations serving Tioga County, NY. “The Community Foundation for the Twin Tiers and its Tioga County Advisory Board is committed to making an immediate impact by following the wishes of a former Tioga County, NY, resident Floyd Hooker. His commitment to the young people of Tioga County through his fund at the Community Foundation will support youth programs in the county forever. Making a substantial impact by supporting projects and programs that will make a real difference in improving the health and welfare of our young people in all corners of Tioga County, NY,” said Suzanne Lee, President and CEO of the Community Foundation for the Twin Tiers. “This level of investment in our area is a shining example of what one individual chose to do with their legacy.” Community Options New York For the purchase of curriculum materials for the Tioga Youth Employment Program for youth with disabilities. Grant Amount: $600 Apalachin Lions Foundation To provide holiday baskets for families in need which include food vouchers, toys and store credits for children. Grant Amount: $1,500
Tioga County Rural Ministry For the support of the Back to School Program that provides low income teens with the ability of purchasing clothing as part of a self-esteem building program. Grant Amount: $8,000 Cooperative Extension Tioga County For the purchase of Chromebooks for participants of the WIOA youth employment program ages 17-25. This will assist participants in vocational trainings that include conducting employment searches. Grant Amount: $8,000 The Community Foundation for the Twin Tiers serves the counties of Bradford, Potter, Sullivan, Tioga (PA) and Tioga (NY). Since 2002, the Community Foundation has built a strong reputation for helping individuals, families, corporations, and non-profit organizations achieve their charitable goals. Through its grant making, Community Foundation partners with non-profits to find solutions to the area’s most pressing issues. It is through this potent combination of its generous community members and organizations working hard at helping those who are less fortunate that the Community Foundation can fulfill its mission. The Community Foundation currently has $7 million in assets and manages over 115 funds. www.twintierscf.org (570) 888-4759
WE INSURE NEW YORK & PENNSYLVANIA FARMS • MOBILE HOMES • RENTALS • HOMEOWNERS AUTO • TRUCKERS • WORK COMP • BUSINESS
Skyline Services
891 Pennsylvania, Little Meadows, Pa. HELP WANTED: Wanted experienced mechanic. Must have New York State Inspection License Apply in person only. Nicks Garage, Main St Apalachin. 2/21
Coleman & Daniels FUNERAL HOME LLC
6519 Rt 434 Apalachin, NY 607-625-3010
300 Main Street Endicott, NY 607-785-0411
TOP DOLLAR PAID: Wanted! Old fishing tackle, lures, reels, etc. Call me first, collector not a dealer so I pay more. John (607) 321-4085 06/21
BEE SWARMS WANTED: Bee swarms wanted on trees and in buildings. Call (607) 625-3318 or (607) 201-4357 4/21 WANTED: Your classified ad for our January 2021 issue. Please send in the form below by January 26, 2021.
SEND US YOUR CLASSIFIED ADS Community Press, 7830 Rt 434, Apalachin, N.Y. 13732
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)
$5 $6
765 Main Street Vestal, NY 607-748-4695
$7 $8 $9
Mark J. Murphy, Lic. Mgr. Steven Gabriel, Lic. Mgr. Ronald Yurecka Lisa Klein
Locally Owned and Operated Proud to be Serving Our Community for over 135 Years Traditional Funeral & Cremation Options Pre-Arrangement Counseling & Financing www.ColemanAndDaniels.com
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.
JANUARY 2021
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
The Town of Owego: 2020 in Review… continued from page 1
One of the negative effects on the budget was a net loss of about 1.1 million dollars in assessed value of the Town. This was caused by challenges to assessments. Fortunately, there was less pressure on the budget in other areas with a minimal increase on most insurances and a couple with no increase. We were also fortunate to experience little impact on our sales tax revenue compared to 2019. Lastly, we set a record in parks revenues, collecting $248,000. If you live in the village, the townwide tax rate is $1.212007 per $1000 of assessment. That is an increase of .13 cents from last year. A home assessed at $64,033 will pay $77.61 in total town taxes. That is an increase of $8.21 from 2020. If you live outside the village you pay both, townwide and town outside taxes. The total tax rate is $4.214917 per $1000 of assessment, an increase of .15 cents from last year. A home assessed at $96,992 will pay
$408.81 in total town taxes, an increase of 15.03 from 2020. Please feel free to contact me with any questions. With the use of social media, facts have a miraculous way of getting misrepresented. Dutchtown Road and Long Creek Road had severe damage during the rain event of August 2018. Dutchtown Road replacement is completed at an approximate cost of 1.2 million dollars. FEMA will cover 75% and the State will cover 12.5% of the cost. The Long Creek Road Bridge is open and near completion. It is anticipated to be completed mid-spring. That cost is about 1.5 million with a majority of that cost being covered at the same rates. I’d like to welcome Joann Lindstrom to the Town as the new Planning and Zoning Administrator. She has hit the ground running and has quickly become an asset to the Town. I want to thank Peter Gordon for volunteering to be the Town Historian last year. He has taken
on projects throughout the Town and has much enthusiasm in preserving our history. I want to thank all the department heads for their continued hard work. They find ways to be innovative and save costs. I was not surprised when I asked for budgets to come in at 10% less than last year, they were all at or near the mark. As always, thank you to the employees who help make the Town successful every day. Lastly, I want to thank all of you for the privilege to serve as the Town Supervisor. As I mentioned last February, I will be running for my last term in 2021. Politics aside, it is a rewarding job. There are good and bad times but I am
blessed to have good people around me (even Dean Morgan) to help make this a great community to live in. Many people have helped myself and my family over the past 26 years. Whether it was school functions, the kids playing 2-3 sports a year or support and friendship, I have always felt blessed. It is the reason why I try to give back to the community when I can. I ask that you continue to take precautions during these trying times but do not live in fear. Keep safety first and take care of your neighbors. I wish all of you a Blessed, Healthy and Happy New Year! God Bless …
20 2 1 From our family to yours: “Our prayers and blessings for a healthy and improved New Year”
Nearly 100 years of being... like “Family”
50 Years Ago
8 Delphine St., Owego, NY 687-1803
January 1971
It’s January 1971. Cigarette commercials air for the last time on TV. The United States begins its second decade of involvement in Vietnam. Stanford beats Ohio in the Rose Bowl, 27 - 17. Fashion designer Blackwell’s “Worst Dressed” list for 1970 includes Jane Fonda, Goldie Hawn, Sophia Loren, and Marlo Thomas. Blackwell’s welldressed list includes Princess Grace of Monaco and Nancy Reagan. President Richard Nixon celebrates his 58th birthday. Gallup polls show that a family of four needs $126 a week to make ends meet. Astronaut Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin, the second man to walk on the moon, announces plans to retire from the space program. The Baltimore Colts win the Super Bowl, beating the Dallas Cowboys 16 13. Pennsylvania Attorney General Fred Speaker declares capital punishment in Pennsylvania unconstitutional and decrees that the state’s electric chair be dismantled. Cold weather reaches as far south as central Florida where temperatures fall into the 20s. After a 121-day trial in Los Angeles, Charles Manson and three of his women followers are found guilty of the Sharon Tate murders. The U.S. Mint unveils the design for the new $1 coin, the first to be minted since before WWII. The coin features General Dwight D. Eisenhower on one side and the American eagle on the other. The eagle honors the first moon landing. Apollo 14, a manned mission to the moon, is launched from Cape Kennedy, Florida. Astronauts Alan Shepard, Edgar Mitchell, and Stuart Roosa say they’ve absolutely solved the danger of a repeat of the Apollo 13 problem. The Vestal Planning Board approves plans for construction of a 70,000square foot Grand Way store in the Vestal Plaza and an expansion of the existing Grand Union supermarket. Link Division of the Singer Company lays off 140 workers, reducing the work force to 2,650. The Owego Village Board of Trustees votes to request the Owego Water
PAGE 7
www.warmcomfort.com
Works to fluoridate the village’s water supply. Fluoridation is not expected to begin until mid 1972. J. Dickson Edson is elected president of the Tioga County Chamber of Commerce. Final 1970 census figures show that 46,513 people live in Tioga County, 20,336 in the Town of Owego, and 1,233 in Apalachin. Movies in local theaters include “Cougar Country,” “Rio Lobo,” “I Love My Wife,” “Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice,” and “The Great White Hope.” “All in the Family” debuts on CBS on Tuesday nights. “Masterpiece Theatre” hosted by Alistair Cooke premieres on PBS on Sundays with its first serialized drama “The First Churchills.” Other Sunday night TV shows include “Disney,” “Hogan’s Heroes,” “The FBI,” “Bonanza,” and “The Bold Ones.” And a 3-pound, 1-ounce box of Cheer Detergent costs 87 cents. Happy New Year!
6278 Rte. 434, Apalachin
Margaret Karpel – E-mail: mkarpel@stny.rr.com
INDEPENDENT AVON REPRESENATIVE
Call today for an appointment (607) 625-3591
Tax Preparation
Bookkeeping Business Consultant
DARLING TAX SERVICE Vicki Darling
Phone (607) 625-4395 Fax (607) 625-5488
6276 State Route 434 Apalachin, NY 13732
Vicki@DarlingTaxService.com
JANUARY 2021
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
PAGE 8
Whitings Receive Distinguished Service Award
625-2212 TAKE OUT – or - DINE IN
Wed - Sat 7 am to 1:30 pm (closed Mon & Tues) Sunday 7 am to 1:00 pm (Closed Jan 9)
FACE COVERING REQUIRED www.facebook.com/gigisplaceapalachin
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Sweeneys Plaza, Rt 434, Apalachin Lions Sue and John Whiting John and Sue Whiting have been members of the Apalachin Lions for several years and have long been involved in the club’s Special Olympics program. In recognition of their dedication to Special Olympics and their ongoing involvement in community activi-
ties via the Apalachin Lions, Johan and Sue Whiting were recognized with the Robert J. Uplinger Distinguished Service Award. They were presented with a plaque, a letter of recognition, and lapel pins at the Lions Wrapping Party on December 9, 2020.
COME IN AND CHECK OUT OUR NEW ITEMS
“Looking Forward to a Better New Year” Christian Brothers Brandy 750 ml. $11.99
2 0 2 1
Leroux Jezynowka Blackberry Brandy 1 L. $14.99 Merry’s Irish Cream 750ml $12.99 Strawberry or Slated Carmel Gift Certificates Available • Case Discounts on non-sale wines
1429 Main Street, Apalachin, N. Y.
Call Earl for an appointment 625-3015
MARY 95