Don Castellucci to Retire after 30 Years of Service
In the middle of 2024, I began to contemplate my future plans and where I wanted to be over the next couple of years. When I began elected office in 1996, I had no intention of serving as long as I have. I believe you have to know when to pass the torch to the next generation. Beginning my 30th year in office, I believe that time is now, if it wasn’t before! I am humbled to be the longest serving elected official in Town history.
The privilege to serve this community has been a blessing. My parents taught me the importance of helping others whether you had nothing or everything. I’ve learned over time that you very well might be the answer to someone else’s prayer to God. I know many blessings have come to me and our family and I always try to pay it forward. I am fortunate to be a member of the Apalachin Lions Club for the last 28 years. The members have taught me the importance of giving back to the community and the difference you can make right in your own back yard. The Owego Elks has taught me the same. Their partnership with me over 25 years hosting blood drives for my mom and dad, Catholic Charity events and other personal events has been invaluable. I have volunteered my time to many local events over the past 30 years as well. My 17 years serving on the Resolutions and Executive Committees on the NYS Association of Towns was one of the highlights of my career. I have made many friends and worked with colleagues on all levels of government. Representing the Town on these levels has created many fond memories
Like any other profession, you have ups and downs. You have made some decisions you might change knowing what you know now. Overall, I am confident I have made the correct decisions on most of the issues that the town has faced during my tenure. Making those decisions was never a one-person undertaking. I have been blessed to have many good people around me over time, that were good public employees as well. They have put the public first and have always tried to assist the residents.
The most difficult times during my tenure were the 2006 and 2011 floods. Seeing family’s lives devastated twice was not easy. In 2006, the Board at the time had not experienced anything of that magnitude. It took all levels of government to address the situation. I will always be impressed on how the community stood together and bounced back from that disaster. In 2011, the magnitude of the flood was even worse than 2006. Having some experience from 2006 was helpful but I needed a different skill set
to address the safety and administrative piece of the event. It definitely took a team effort and the experience the department heads had from 2006 was invaluable. Again, the community demonstrated courage and resiliency. That is something I will never forget.
With bad experiences comes a silver lining. After 2011, we were able to rebuild and retool the towns operation and infrastructure.
Hickories Park has had many upgrades, including new electric sites, sewer for campers, the Dog Park, a rebuilt band shell, new electric throughout the park and much more. Camping is at an all -time high. The park has become a destination site for locals and travelers. We have a new disc-golf course in Campville. We are currently repurposing the Tioga Terrace Park with basketball and pickle ball courts. There is a walking path and more amenities coming in the future.
A lot of infrastructure has been rebuilt or updated. Well houses and pump stations have been rebuilt. Water wells have been redeveloped. There is now stand by power at many of our wells and pump houses. Our Apalachin sewage treatment plant was upgraded and we are currently upgrading our Owego sewage treatment plant. Bridges and culverts such as Valley Road, Foster Valley Rd, Long Creek Rd, Gaylord Rd and Dutchtown Rd have been rebuilt (to name a few). Most of these projects were facilitated with NYS and FEMA saving local tax dollars.
My most satisfying achievement was the building of the 9-11 Memorial in Hickories Park. It encompasses all of the 9-11 narrative. It is still visited by many people each summer. We were also able to host the Tunnel to Towers Rolling Museum. It will be bittersweet when I officiate my last 9-11 ceremony this year.
The other project which I am most proud of, is the new Shared Services Building. The benefits are many. All of our equipment is now able to be stored indoors which extends the use of life. The equipment is now out of the flood plain. We have a fuel tank located on campus so if there is an emergency event, we can respond. The town needs to be able to respond to emergency events immediately. We now will have access to most of the needed equipment at all times. The town was recently designated as a Storm Ready Community. We have created an emergency operations center (EOC) in the new building. We are continually adding information to our website to help residents navigate storms and emergencies. The building has the potential to become an emergency shelter if needed. The Town was able to run water and sewer to the new building and the town hall. This gives the town or a developer an opportunity to invest in water and sewer lines from Lopke to the village line. These are just some of the advantages of the new building.
The Town Hall was built in 1987. We have continually upgraded the facility. There are new windows, upgraded HVAC, roof repairs, a recently paved parking lot and we are utilizing new security protocols. This will help extend the useful life of the building.
About six years ago, the town purchased the street lights and converted them to LED lighting. This has created significant savings for users.
As a family-owned small business, Brickhouse Pizza Company offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience with authentic wood-fired, brick oven pizzas, calzones, oversized gourmet sandwiches, and what many claim to be the best meatballs you’ll ever taste. With 40 years of pizza-making expertise, from Long Island to Brook-
lyn, they are excited to share their passion for exceptional food in a cozy, friendly atmosphere. Since relocating to Berkshire, NY, in 2017, the Tricollas have become active community members, also owning Tricolla Farms wedding and event barn venue in Berkshire. Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, Brickhouse Pizza Company welcomes guests to dine in or take out. Discover the taste of true wood-fired pizza and more at Owego’s newest dining destination.
Tioga County Chamber of Commerce Announces New Board Members for 2025
The new members joining the board are:
Christopher Cice, Financial Advisor, Carrie Whitmore, Tompkins Cortland Community College
Daniel Reinhart, SR Architecture Studio PC
Michelle Pelton, Confection Connection
Les Wagner, Wagner Lumber
The Tioga County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the appointment of five new members to its Board of Directors for the year 2025. These dedicated professionals bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a strong
commitment to the growth and success of the local business community.
"We are thrilled to welcome such a talented and diverse group of individuals to our Board of Directors," said Sabrina Henriques, Ph.D., President and CEO of the Tioga County Chamber of Commerce. "Each new member brings unique expertise and perspectives from different industries that will strengthen our efforts in advancing the Chamber’s mission. Their collective insight will be invaluable as we continue to advocate for local businesses, foster economic growth, and improve the quality of life in Tioga County in 2025 and beyond."
Castellucci cont’d
We also share many services with the State, County and Village of Owego, along with other municipalities across the County. While many people know I believe the tax cap is a political scam at the state level, even with all of the projects we have completed, we have been under the tax cap since 2017.
One of the issues that I regret that I haven’t been able to address to date is the internet access in some areas of the town. I am sure there are other issues but this is one that comes to mind.
Closing, I would like to thank everyone for their support over the past 30 years. It has overall been the experience of a lifetime. The ups and downs, the supporters and detractors all make the
road of life the success it can become. Certainly not last, I want to thank my family. Vicki and I have been blessed with the many friends and acquaintances we have made over the years. From my first fundraiser at Metro’s Restaurant in 1995 until now, the support has been limitless. We are blessed with two successful children, Donald and Lauren and now our daughter in law, Emily. We were blessed with community support with the kids travel sports and academic fundraisers. Life is never perfect and ours is no different than anyone else’s, but this is still a great place to raise a family. We are forever grateful to the community.
At the Apalachin Library
719 Main St. Apalachin, NY 607-625-3333
Open Mon, Tues, Thurs: 10am-7pm; Fri & Sat: 10am-2pm www.apalachinlibrary.org
Storytime: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10:30am Join Miss Wendy for read alouds, singing, playing, dancing, and crafts! Tuesday and Thursday each week are the same theme. No registration required.
Mahjong: Mondays, 2pm-4pm No experience or registration required.
Tech Time with Tina: By Appointment Call to sign up for some one-on -one help with any tech topic! Zen
Before Zzzzzs: Tuesdays | 6pm Grab your yoga mat and join yoga instructor Sheehan Shotwell for an inspiring yoga practice each week. No registration required.
Pokémon Club: Saturday, February 1, 11am-1pm See next page for details!
Senior First Friday Program – Scandanavian-Inspired Art Class Friday, February 7, 11am-1pm See next page for details about this program! Registration is required.
Evening Book Club: Thursday, February 13, 6:30pm The Secret Lives of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd The March book will be How to Read a Book by Monica Wood. No registration required.
Kids Landscapes Painting Class: Saturday, February 15, 11am-1pm See next page for details! Registration is required.
WAITLIST ONLY Afternoon Book Club: Thursday, February 20, 1pm Everyone in My Family has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson The March book will be Presumed Innocent by Scott Turow. No registration required.
Wintertime Mini Golf: Saturday, February 22, 11am-1pm You’ve heard of Christmas in July… but what about Mini Golf in Winter?! Thanks to CK’Sters, we can do that in February! Registration is required, and space is limited, so sign up soon!
Pam BrownAnnounces Candidacy for Town of Owego Clerk
Pam Brown of Apalachin announces her intention to run for Town of Owego Clerk in the 2025 election. A lifetime resident in the Town of Owego, she has resided in Apalachin for the last 41 years. She resides there with her husband Gregg. They have two children, Jake and Dan Brown as well as two grandchildren.
Pam began her career at the town in November of 2023 as Deputy Town Clerk and Deputy Tax Receiver. She was appointed Town Clerk at the Town
of Owego Board Meeting (1/21/25), replacing retiring Town Clerk, Mary Kennedy (06/30/2025). She has a financial background, working for 9 years at a local financial institution. She also has customer service experience, working in retail for 5 years. Pam has been training under Town Clerk Mary Kennedy for the past 13 months.
Pam stated, “I look forward to meeting residents during the campaign. I also look forward to serving the residents of the Town “at the counter” in the future.
Dapolito Announces Run for Town of Owego Supervisor
Joe Dapolito officially announces his intention to run for Town of Owego Supervisor. Joe recently purchased a home in the Village of Owego. Prior to that he lived in Apalachin (Tioga Terrace) for 7 years. Joe has 2 Children who Graduated from Vestal High School.
Joe brings with him a strong list of qualifications. He served in the USMC, from 1997-2000. Took Marketing and Business Management at Broome Community College. While living in Tioga Terrace Joe served on the Terrace Civic Association as Vice President and President. While serving he helped with many neighborhood projects, like helping spearhead the revitalization of Tioga Park. He also served on the Vestal Gridiron Board for 4 Years as Vice President.
His employment includes extensive
sales manager experience at Feduke Ford, Jack Sherman and Gault Chevrolet. He is currently a Business Consultant for ADT Security. He also has experience in financial management, contract negotiations, customer service and strong leadership skills.
When asked why he is running for Supervisor he said, “I believe my skillset is a great fit for town management. I want to help develop the path forward for the town and all its constituents. It’s time for fresh eyes to take a look at the direction the Town is headed. I think I can develop a team to move the Town forward in a positive and clear direction. It is the responsibility of the next generation to make decisions for the future I am excited about the opportunity to serve our town.
LoftusAnnounces Run for Town of Owego Supervisor
Former Mayor sees opportunity for growth. Owego, N.Y. – Former Village of Owego Mayor John Loftus will announce his candidacy for Town of Owego Supervisor on Friday, January 10th at 11 AM at the Baker Fireman’s Fountain in the Courthouse Square, Owego. Loftus is seeking the Republican nomination for the fouryear term replacing incumbent Don Castellucci who is retiring.
“I have unique experiences and talents in public service over the years that can help propel the Town forward,” said candidate Loftus, a Republican from the Village of Owego. “We need to maximize partnerships across the board (Village, Town, County, State, Federal) to continue Owego’s growth as whole.” Loftus served as Village of Owego Mayor from 2006-2008 with major accomplishments that included north bank stabilization of the Susquehanna River behind the Front Street business district known as “Riverow.” Not only did the project stop erosion along the river's edge, preserving the businesses along the river, it added the much used “Riverwalk” connecting Ahwaga and Draper Parks for recreational purposes. Loftus said, “Everyone sees and enjoys the Riverwalk today but the real drive to get that project done was bank stabilization for the businesses on Front Street. We had to coordinate with 16 landowners of 21 different land parcels to get the job done. It was not an easy task, but we did it.”
A volunteer and Life Member with the Owego Fire Department’s (OFD) Croton Hose Company #3, Loftus also serves as Treasurer of the
Owego Hose Teams. The Hose Team has raised and invested over $500,000 of non-taxpayer funds for the Baker Fireman’s Fountain restoration and 1866 Amoskeag Steam Fire Engine repair and construction of its Steamer House on North Avenue in the heart of Owego. No stranger to big projects, Loftus oversaw repairs to the historic Owego Central Fire Station in the late 1980s as Village of Owego Deputy Mayor and Fire Commissioner. His service to the Owego community also extends to Owego Little League, Knights of Columbus, and the Owego Strawberry Festival Committee as Parade Chair. He is currently employed as a manager at Innovation Associates (iA) with a career history dating back to Lockheed Martin in the early 1990s. He lives with wife Mary on the Flats in the Village of Owego. -more- The Class of 1975 Owego Free Academy graduate wants to bring fiscal transparency and efficiency to the job. Loftus said, “The Town Supervisor is a key position and I believe I have the right qualifications to best serve the people in that position.” Loftus is running as a Republican in the June 24th primary. He will be circulating petitions for ballot status February 25th – April 3rd.
Spaghetti Dinner
Friday, February 21, 4pm-6:30pm
Free To-Go or Eat In Community Dinner
Little Meadows
United Methodist Church 843 Pennsylvania Ave,
Little Meadows, PA 18830
Call: (570) 623-2746 Or EMAIL: LMUMCC175@gmail.com
By February 18, 2025, to Reserve your dinner or just stop at the church between 4-6:30pm to pick up a dinner to take home or join us and eat in.
Apalachin Lions Club Scholarships 2025
The Apalachin Lions Club 38th Annual Scholarship program will award $4500 in scholarships to deserving students from the class of 2024 who live in the 13732, and 13760, 18830 zip codes. This covers Apalachin, Campville east to the Broome County line, and Little Meadows, PA. The scholarships are awarded to students who have made outstanding contributions in service to their community and school.
Distribution of scholarships will be as follows: One $1500 scholarship will be awarded to students who attend Owego Free Academy and Vestal High School .And one $1500 scholarship will be awarded to a stu-
dent who attends either of the following schools: Broome Tioga BOCES, Montrose Junior-Senior High, Seton Catholic Central High School, Ross Corners Christian Academy, Northeast Bradford Hight School and Home Schooling (LEAH).
The distribution of scholarships is based on the relative numbers of students from Apalachin, Campville and Little Meadows attending each of the schools.
Information and applications may be obtained at the schools Guidance Office, or Vestal LEAH. Please return the complete application to the Guidance office or Vestal LEAH on or before: March 28, 2025
Gary HelmersAnnounces Candidacy for Town of Owego Supervisor
Gary Helmers, a lifelong resident of Tioga County, has announced his candidacy for the position of Town of Owego Supervisor. With over 27 years of experience in law enforcement, fraud investigation, and construction, as well as his current service on the Owego Town Board, Helmers is committed to bringing integrity, transparency, and practical leadership to local government.
Helmers' extensive law enforcement background includes serving as a Sergeant with the Tioga County Sheriff’s Department and as a Senior Officer with the Vestal Police Department. Throughout his career, he earned multiple commendations for his outstanding service, including serving as PBA President, being a member of the SWAT team, and receiving both Officer of the Year and Investigator of the Year awards. Additionally, Helmers is a certified NYS and National K9 Master Trainer, further showcasing his dedication to public safety and community wellbeing.
In addition to his law enforcement career, Helmers worked for 14 years as a fraud investigator, utilizing his keen investigative skills to protect businesses and individuals from fraudulent activity. He also brings valuable experience from his time working in construction with Central Asphalt as a paver and oiler, where he gained a deep understanding of infrastructure and community development.
Gary and his wife, Barbara, own and operate G&B Farms, a horse boarding facility in Owego. Their business exemplifies their commitment to supporting local agriculture
and small businesses, and it provides Gary with a unique perspective on the needs and concerns of rural communities.
Helmers’ varied background has equipped him with the skills necessary to manage personnel, address public concerns, and make thoughtful, well-informed decisions. His commitment to integrity, honesty, and transparency in every aspect of his work has earned him the trust of the community, and he is ready to bring these values to the office of Town Supervisor.
“As a lifelong resident of Owego and an active member of our community, I am proud to announce my candidacy for Town Supervisor,” said Helmers. “I believe in a transparent, responsible approach to leadership, and I am committed to ensuring Owego remains a safe, vibrant, and prosperous place to live and work. My diverse experience gives me the tools to effectively manage our town’s growth, improve infrastructure, and support local businesses while keeping the best interests of our residents at the forefront.”
Currently serving as a Councilman on the Owego Town Board, Gary Helmers has already demonstrated his dedication to improving the community. As Supervisor, he aims to continue focusing on practical solutions for infrastructure improvements, public safety, and economic development, all while maintaining the values of honesty, transparency, and fiscal responsibility.
For more information on Gary Helmers’ campaign or to get involved, please visit Gary Hellmers for Owego Supervisor Facebook Page.
Floyd HookerYouth Grants for 2024
The Board of Directors of the Community Foundation for the Twin Tiers (CFTT) has approved the 2024 Floyd “Vic” Hooker Youth Grants for Tioga County, NY. A total of $18,100 has been awarded to five non-profit organizations serving youth in Tioga County, NY.
The 2024 Floyd Hooker Youth Grant Recipients are: Catholic Charities of Tompkins/Tioga Counties, CorningElmira Musical Arts, Inc., Lions Camp Badger, The Salvation Army of Tioga County, NY and Tioga County Rural Ministry, Inc.
The Terrace
50 Years Ago by
It's February 1975.
Punxsutawney Phil doesn't see his shadow, indicating that spring is just around the corner!
In Britain, Margaret Thatcher, 49, is elected leader of the Conservative Party.
Bess Truman, widow of President Harry Truman, celebrates her 90th birthday.
Chinese year 4673, the year of the rabbit, begins.
After a New York City radio station plays a George Carlin monologue on the air, the FCC rules that the broadcast was indecent.
Patty Hearst turns 21. She was kidnapped over a year ago at her where-abouts is still unknown.
John N. Mitchell, H. R. Haldeman, and John D. Ehrlichman are sentenced to 2 1/2 to 8 years in prison fro their roles in the Watergate cover-up.
The United States is in the deepest recession since World War II. Prices are rising. Unemployment is high.
Daylight Saving Time returns two months earlier this year in accordance with the 1973 emergency federal legislation which seeks to reduce the use of energy.
In a speech given at SUNY Binghamton, social critic Dick Gregory says he has evidence that the CIA has infiltrated the press, is involved in illegal drug operations and is providing weapons to juvenile gangs. He also says that if more of the world's plantable land were used
Beverly Brown
to grow food then there would be enough to feed 40 billion people.
Doctors Briones, Abraham, Farescal, and Ryan announce plans to open a combined practice at 17 Lake Street in the Village of Owego. The Tri-Cities Opera performs Rigoletto at the Binghamton Masonic Temple.
Syracuse University raises undergraduate tuition from $3,030 to $3,340.
Some students at Owego Free Academy are circulating petitions in favor of creating designated student smoking areas in the school to prevent students from smoking in the bathrooms. School officials attempted to discourage smoking in the bathrooms by removing the doors from the stalls. This has not stopped students from smoking there.
The Vestal High School band wins the 34th annual Edison Pageant of Light field band competition in Fort Meyers, Florida, and places first in the Largo Band of Gold National Competition in Largo, Florida.
New York's unemployment rate is the highest since the Depression. Saturday night TV shows include Emergency, All in the Family, The Jeffersons, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Bob Newhart, and The Carol Burnett Show.
Movies at local theaters include Young Frankenstein, Earthquake in Sensurround (You'll FEEL it as well as see it!), Dustin Hoffman in Lenny, and The Stepford Wives.
JOANNE BABCOCK AWARDED THE 2024 BILLAND SARAH RANSOM COMMUNITY SERVICEAWARD
The Community Foundation for the Twin Tiers (CFTT) and the Waverly Rotary Club proudly honor JoAnne Babcock as the 2024 recipient of the Bill and Sarah Ransom Community Service Award. This prestigious award celebrates individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication to community service, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the Valley community.
William H. Ransom was a prominent Valley businessman and an active member of numerous organizations. His leadership and vision were integral to groups such as the Sayre Presbyterian Church, Waverly Rotary Club, Tioga State Bank, Community Foundation for the Twin Tiers, Sayre Historical Society, and Guthrie Healthcare System. Bill’s tireless efforts helped strengthen the community, making it a better place to live, work, and thrive.
Sarah Ransom shared Bill’s passion for civic engagement. She cofounded Bradford County Partners for Family and Community Development and served on the boards of the Bradford County United Way, Robert Packer Hospital, The Bridge, Troy’s Glenwood Cemetery, Bradford County Library, and Valley Chorus. Sarah also served on the Sayre Borough Council, dedicating her life to enriching her community.
JoAnne Babcock continues this legacy of community leadership through her remarkable professional contri-
butions and volunteer efforts. She is an active member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks, Lodge #1148 in Sayre, PA, where she participates in charitable initiatives and community service projects. JoAnne has also served on the board of the National Association of Social Workers - Pennsylvania, advocating for social work professionals and policies that promote positive change.
Nominated by Brittney Mink, JoAnne’s passion for helping the most vulnerable children who have experienced abuse sets her apart as a true champion of compassion and advocacy. Her tireless dedication reflects the values of “Service Above Self,” embodying the qualities that Bill and Sarah Ransom upheld integrity, compassion, and selflessness.
JoAnne’s work ensures that every child has the opportunity to heal and thrive. Her efforts make a profound and lasting impact on the lives of those she serves, exemplifying the spirit of giving back to the community.
CFTT and the Waverly Rotary Club extend heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to the fund, enabling the recognition of individuals like JoAnne Babcock, who inspire us with their selfless dedication to building a stronger, more compassionate community
Coughlin & Gerhart, LLP Announces Kopp as New Partner
Coughlin & Gerhart, LLP is pleased to announce Nathan Kopp as the firm’s newest partner as of January 1, 2025! Kopp joined the firm after practicing for many years in Chicago, Illinois and Salt Lake City, Utah. He grew up in the Ithaca area, attended Cornell University and returned to the area with his family to raise his children as Ithacans. His practice is focused on trusts, wills and estate planning, business representation and commercial transactions, and real estate. He is a member of the New York State
Bar Association, the Tompkins County Bar Association, and the Broome County Bar Association. He has practical experience across a broad range of different practice areas, including significant civil litigation and trial experience, which enables him to manage his clients’ risk exposure while guiding them efficiently through transactions and legal issues.
Kopp was listed in the category of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch™ for (Business Organizations (including LLCs and Partnerships) for 2025. He sits on the board of the Ithaca Voice and is very active in the Tompkins County community.
“We are thrilled to welcome Nate as a partner," said Rachel Abbott, Managing Partner, Coughlin & Gerhart. "Nate’s extensive legal experience, in trusts, estates, business, and real estate, coupled with his impressive litigation background, makes him a tremendous asset to our clients and team. His recognition as one of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch is a testament to his commitment to clients and excellent legal skill. We look forward to his continued contributions as we grow and serve our communities together,” said Abbott
Lions Foodbank for February
Foodbank Of the Southern Tier APALACHIN LIONS WALK-UP MOBILE FOOD PANTRY 2025 will be held on Wednesday February 26th from 10 to11 am. at St. Margaret Mary’s Church 1110 Pennsylvania Ave. Apalachin, NY 13732.
Pre-registration required
HELP WANTED: Wanted experienced mechanic. Must have New York State Inspection License Apply in person only. Nick’s Garage, Main St Apalachin. 12/25
TOP DOLLAR PAID: Wanted! Old fishing tackle, lures, reels, etc. (PRE 1960) Old coins and currency. Call me first, collector not a dealer so I pay more. John 607-321-4085 04/25
REGISTRATION is the Tuesday before – (February 25th) At 8:30 AM until full (current limit of 125 registrations).
If you register please attend. Phone: 2-1-1 or Online: www.foodbankst.org/cfd
This is a Walk-up Pantry Bring a cart or bags to carry food!
BEE SWARMS WANTED: Bee swarms wanted on trees and in buildings. Call 607-625-3318 or 607-201-4357 12/25
WANTED: Your classified ad for our December 2024 issue. Please send in your ad by Nov 27, 2024, with payment of $7.50 first 25 words 25¢ each word after 25
and
Blue Velvet Big Band. The Snowflake Follies will take place on Sunday, February 23, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the JCSC, located at 30 Brocton Street in Johnson City, NY.
Emceed by former local radio celebrities and JCSC Board Members, Wally and Mary Roper, the event promises to
be a delightful way to chase away the winter blues. Guests are invited to enjoy the mellow sounds of the Blue Velvet Big Band while dancing or simply listening to the music.
Admission is $12 for general admission and $10 for SUNY students. A concession stand will be available. All ages are welcome. For more information or to inquire about the event, please call the JCSC at 607-797-3145
Mark Clark to Run for Highway Superintendent
After completing my last term in 2021, I believed my time in public service had come to a close. However, I am announcing that I am running for the position of Highway Superintendent for the Town of Owego in the upcoming June 2025 Primary.
During my previous tenure, I worked tirelessly to improve our roads, enhance public safety, and ensure that the Owego Highway Department operated efficiently and responsibly. It is with the same dedication and commitment to public service that I now seek to return to office, as I believe Owego deserves better leadership and accountability in the Highway Department.
With 45 years of experience in road maintenance and public service, I have the expertise to address the challenges facing our community. During my previous time as Highway Superintendent, we
made significant strides in improving our infrastructure and ensuring that our roads were safe, well-maintained, and properly serviced.
However, in the past three years under the current administration, much of the progress we achieved has been undone. Road conditions have deteriorated, critical maintenance projects have been delayed, left incomplete, or executed improperly. Additionally, there has been a troubling lack of transparency and oversight within the Owego Highway Department. It is clear that the current leadership has not delivered the level of service and accountability that Owego deserves. Given the opportunity, i will put the department and infrastructure back in “the right direction “.
Respectfully, Mark Clark, Candidate for Highway Superintendent Town of Owego
