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YOUR HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER • www.CommunityPress.us Volume 37
JUNE 2022
Memorial Day 2022 Celebrated in Owego
Number 6
Owego Strawberry Festival - June 17 & 18
On Memorial Day, we remember and honor those who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. On Memorial Day, Monday, May 30, 2022, a parade was held in Owego. A Roll Call of Honor was read by Mary Beth Jones and JoAnn Walter, and a Service of Remembrance was given by Jim Raftis. The Honor Roll was broadcast live on WEBO Radio and on the Internet .
Hose Team Honors Longtime Owego Little League Volunteers
Coming off the heels of a two-year hiatus, the 40th Anniversary celebration for Owego’s Strawberry Festival is here. The bar has been raised for this year’s “Strawberry Jubilee” and things will be back in grand fashion for this free festival. What makes this year special is that Owego Little League Volunteers Dick Franz & Jim Raftis with the “Garden Hoser” Tee Ball Team. The Owego Hose Team “Garden HosFormed in 1952, Owego Little League er” Tee Ball Team honored two longtime provides the children of Owego and the Owego Little League volunteers Dick surrounding area the opportunity to play Franz and Jim Raftis as “Honorary Manbaseball and softball for free. Hyde Park agers” at their game at Hyde Park on now consists of five fully enclosed fields Saturday, May 7. plus the Teener field on the Owego Free “Dick and Jim are the epitome of what Academy grounds, dugouts, field house, we have come to call the greatest generatwo storage buildings, batting cage, tee tion our country has to offer,” said Hose cage, a pitching complex, two pavilions, Team Treasurer John Loftus. “This small and lighted fields. The strong community tribute for all they have done for Little support over the years has given the League and Owego with nearly 70 years Owego community an outstanding proof dedication showed our young Tee gram for area youth thanks to tireless Ballers what community service is all public servants like Dick Franz and Jim about.” Raftis. This includes hosting the New Both Franz and Raftis have served York State 10U Little League ChampionOwego Little League as volunteers for ship. The premier tournament for players several decades and are Senior Members 10 years of age brings top Little League of the League’s Executive Board. Raftis, teams and talent from around the state to age 90, has been involved with Owego the Village of Owego. Little League since 1955. One of the fields at Hyde Park, Raftis Field, was named after his grandfather, Nick Raftis, who was a professional baseball player. Known as the “Voice of Owego,” he is a well-known former Owego radio personality. Franz, age 89, also has served Owego Little League since its early days in the 1950s and has a field named after him that was dedicated in 1986. A Lifetime Member of Croton Hose Company #3 of the Owego Fire Department, Franz led Owego’s first Central New York Dick Franz & Jim Raftis receive Champion Hose Racing Team in 1959. plaques as “Honorary Managers.”
the festival’s founder, Pat Hansen, will be serving as the parade’s Grand Marshal, riding through the crowd and thanking the thousands of attendees that have arrived at one of New York’s iconic festival for a collective 40 years. This year’s festival puts a focus on local, highlighting the talent within our community. With more than 20 live band performances and vendors that have been perfecting their craft during the two-year pandemic-break, this year’s event is sure to be a culmination of all good things to come - a jubilee! Featured again will be the Dinosaur Adventures. This year, however, they will bring their baby along with them. The parents, who will be in attendance as well, are excited to introduce their brood at this year’s jubilee. There will also be fireworks, vendors, jugglers, face painting, super heroes, and so much more. And of course there will be strawberries!
The Automobile in Tioga County: More Than Just a Ride A new exhibit representing aspects of the auto in Tioga County is on display at the Tioga County Historical Society Museum at 110 Front Street in Owego. The exhibit includes a historical perspective on car dealers, service stations, licensing, and advertising, world famous drivers racing at the fair grounds, and NASCAR drivers’ early beginnings. There are toy cars manufactured in Tioga County as well as the Champion Wagon Company of Owego that built electric trucks circa 1909. There’s even a local boy made good - George Pierce, of the Pierce-Arrow nicknamed “the Ameri-
can Rolls-Royce,” was raised and schooled in Waverly, NY. On display is one of the very few 1913 Monarch motorcycles with belt drive and magneto ignition in existence. The Soap Box Derby Car built and driven by Bill Terry, the winner of the 1968 Owego Soap Box Derby Race sponsored by the Owego Jaycees, Bill Graham and Trabucco Chevrolet, went on to compete in Akron, Ohio. There is so much more to see. The exhibit is open until September 30, 2022, Tuesday through Saturday, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
“Concerts in the Park” at Hickories Park Concerts in the Park will be held on Wednesday evenings, June 29 - August 3, 2022, at Hickories Park in Owego. Admission is free. In the event of inclement weather, the concert will move to the Owego Elks Lodge.
The June 29 concert will include fireworks. This series is made possible in part with funding from the Town of Owego.
June 29 Basin Street Jazz Band and Fireworks July 6 Jess Novak & Ben Wayne July 13 Tom Jolu July 20 Hot Dogs & Gin July 27 John Manfredi Band Aug. 3 Next To Kin
7:30 - 9:30pm 7:00 - 9:00pm 7:00 - 9:00pm 7:00 - 9:00pm 7:00 - 9:00pm 7:00 - 9:00pm
JUNE 2022
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
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“Tioga State Bank partners with Hose Team on Bell Stock Program”
Historic fire bell to be installed in new Steamer House
Owego, N.Y. – The TSB Foundation has partnered with the Owego Hose Team and purchased 20 pounds of bell stock to preserve the historic Owego Central Fire Station Bell that was removed last spring. The bell is currently under restoration at the Verdin Bell Company facility in Ohio where it is undergoing sandblasting with a fine polish, then will be installed in the Hose Team’s Steamer House building planned next to Owego Fire Station #2 on North Avenue. “We appreciate TSB Foundation’s commitment to this piece of the Steamer project,” said Hose Team Executive Board Member and Past Owego Fire Chief Dan Gavin. “If all goes accordingly, construction of the Steamer House Building could start this summer including the installation of fire bell.” Manufactured by MeNeely Bell Company of Troy, New York, the bell was presented to the Village of Owego by Dr. Sidney Wells Thompson on December 11, 1911,
the year Owego Central Fire Station was built. Construction of a “Steamer House” will showcase the Owego Fire Department’s 1866 Amoskeag Steam Fire Engine and 1939 Sanford Hose Truck. Modeled after a Steamer House located in Marathon, NY, it will be constructed of cedar wood frame and glass solarium walls for 360-degree viewing with a steeple for the fire bell. The bell will eventually chime on the hour and for special occasions as it did in the past. All funds for the Steamer project are being raised privately by the Hose Team. To help offset additional costs for the bell, the Hose Team is selling “Doc ‘T’ Preferred” bell stock as a nod to Dr. Thompson who donated the bell in 1911. For $25, an individual can buy one pound of the historic bell with only 813 pounds, the bell’s weight, to be sold. To date, 545 shares have been sold with only 268 remaining. A similar campaign was held in the early 1900s that raised funds for the “Old Joe” bell located in the Court House Square. “Doc ‘T’ Preferred” stock can be purchased on the Hose Team website at www.OwegoHoseTeams.com. All contributions are tax deductible as the Hose Team is a recognized 501c3 Not for Profit organization.
County Legislator Meeting - June 14 The sixth regular meeting of the Tioga County Legislator will be held at 12 Noon on Tuesday, June 14, in the auditorium of the County Office Building, 56
Main St., in Owego. Individuals requiring accommodation or auxiliary aid may contact the Legislative Office at 687-8240.
Spencer, Van Etten and Candor Elderly Housing
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“ON THE RUN AROUND THE CLOCK”
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COMMUNITY PRESS
Volume 37 Number 6 June 2022 © 2022 Published by Brown Enterprise And Marketing 7830 State Route 434 Apalachin, New York 13732 Phone (607) 72-PRESS or (607) 727-7377 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
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JUNE 2022
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
PAGE 3
8 Main Street, Owego NY (in front of Price Chopper Plaza) (in Tioga Pack & Ship parking lot)
Now Open • Hours: 10am - 5pm in Owego Open at Home: Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10626 State Route 38, Newark Valley
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On April 23, a group of Apalachin Lions Club members and community volunteers assembled to pick up trash along the club’s designated three-mile stretch of Rt. 434. The Apalachin Lions undertake this civic improvement event twice a year, in the spring and the fall. The Lions invite any and all volunteers from the community to join them.
Tioga Co. Republican Committee Held Annual Dinner The Tioga County Republican Committee held its annual Spring Dinner in April. Approximately 140 enthusiastic Republicans gathered at Donoli’s in Apalachin. The Keynote Speaker was NYS LT Governor Candidate and retired NYC Police Officer, Alison Esposito, who gave an impassioned speech on rising crime and bail reform. Other speakers included Congresswoman Clau-
KEVIN
LUKE
dia Tenney, NYS Attorney General Candidate Michael Henry, NYS Senator Tom O’Mara, Assemblyman Chris Friend, and Mayor Rich David. Local candidates spoke as well. Spencer Committeewoman Joyce Pasto was honored as Republican of the Year. Republican Chairman Donald Castellucci, Jr. stated, “It has been a while since I have witnessed enthusiasm like this at the local level. Continued corruption, one party rule, bail reform, crime rising at unprecedented levels and tax and spend policies have many voters motivated. I am looking forward to working with a new slate of elected state Republicans beginning in January.”
19 Delaware Ave., Endicott, NY 13760
CALL 607-754-0707 • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INSTALLATIONS •
Serving Lunch & Dinner or Just a Snack! Stop in and try our Homemade Soup Specials
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“I am so grateful to have Gary and Debbie Howard’s endorsement for my run! Thank you both for all your support!” Gary Hellmers Please don’t forget to VOTE! New York Republican Primary Tuesday June 28th
New York General Election - Tuesday Nov. 8th
JUNE 2022
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
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JUNE 2022
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
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Vocational Training Available 2713 Pennsylvania Ave., Apalachin, NY 13732
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SERVICE NEW CUSTOMERS WELCOME Call Maggie for your appointment
Floyd Wright Jr. “The Wright Choice” Open: Monday - Friday 8am to 5pm 607-625-5279 • www.ApalachinAutoRepair.com
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Are you interested in learning a new skill or changing your career path? Vocational Training might be for you! Have you ever dreamed of becoming a welder or an electrician? How about a cosmetologist or phlebotomist? Are you interested in learning a new skill or looking for a change in career? Would you like to do vocational training but don’t know where to start? Vocational Training opportunities begin soon at Broome-Tioga BOCES in Johnson City. Applications will be accepted in June for classes starting in September. Tioga County Rural Ministry may be able to help you fulfill your dreams. For more information, call Alycia at 687-3021.
Spencer Family, Newark Valley, and Owego Community Garden Apartments Non-Smoking Facility One and two bedroom units available for rent Available for qualifying low-income families, elderly and disabled persons of any age. Rent is based on income. Heat, hot water and garbage included. Laundry room on-site. 19 Orchard Street, Spencer, N. Y. 14883 Office: 607-589-4630 TDD 800-662-1220
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
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Monday’s & Wednesday’s July 18th thru August 10th
Recreational Classes age 3 thru Adult
Dance camps for ages 3 and up Register thru our website: www.KathyHansenDance.com
New Broil King gas grills in stock fully assembled Gas grill parts for all makes of grills in stock! Call for Furnace Installation Estimates
963 Glen Mary Dr. Owego, NY 13732
For inquires, feel free to email us at: Kathy@kathyhansendance.com
JUNE 2022
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
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Ribbon Cutting at Tioga Arts Council
Grace’s Place offers you time to do “your own thing” while Seniors enjoy a variety of age appropriate activities, crafts, music and a snack.
We specializes in concrete work and stone landscaping. We also have experience in pole barns, sheetrock and taping along with any kind of demo. All with fair honest prices. Call us for a quote today
Second Saturday of the month, 1-4 PM PROVIDER LOCATION - QUESTIONS Grace Lutheran Church 709 Main St. Vestal, NY 607-748-0840 For more information and to request a registration packet please go to your web browser and enter: GraceLutheranChurchVestal.com/grace-place Complete the on-line request
On May 19, Tioga Arts Council (TAC) in Owego officially launched its new retail space. This program represents a way for TAC to promote arts and make supplies more accessible, to support its mission, and to serve as a year-round fundraiser for TAC. It is also another wonderful way for TAC to celebrate its 50th Anniversary and to serve the community for another 50 years.
Walk-Up Mobile Food Pantry - June 29 ~ ONLY 6 MILES SOUTH OF ROUTE 434 ~
LITTLE MEADOWS, PA. 570-623-3508 Open: 7 Days A Week 10:00 am till closing
SERVING LUNCH & DINNER HOMEMADE SOUPS HAPPY HOUR ~ 3:30 – 5:30 Mon–Fri
The Foodbank of the Southern Tier and the Apalachin Lions will hold a Walk-Up Mobile Food Pantry on Wednesday, June 29, from 10:00 to 11:00 am at St. Margaret Mary’s Church, 1110 Pennsylvania Avenue in Apalachin.
CALL US FOR ALL YOUR CATERING NEEDS! MONDAY
WEDNESDAY
PIZZA NIGHT
WING NIGHT
FRIDAY
Steak & Seafood on the Grill Deep fried Haddock
SATURDAY BBQ Chicken & Ribs
GAS STATION HOT DOGS Sunday June 26th (outside—weather permitting)
HAPPY FATHER’s DAY
Coleman & Daniels
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 06/22 HELP WANTED: Wanted experienced mechanic. Must have New York State Inspection License Apply in person only. Nicks Garage, Main St Apalachin. 12/22
Pre-registration is required. Registration will be held on Tuesday, June 28, at 8:30am until full. Phone 211 or go to www.foodbankst.org/cfd At the 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 4/23 WANTED: Your classified ad for our June 2022 issue. Please send in your ad by May 25, 2022, with payment of $7.50
SEND US YOUR CLASSIFIED ADS Community Press, 7830 Rt 434, Apalachin, N.Y. 13732
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 $7.50 for the first 20 words. (add $1 for each 4 additional words)
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Rent is based on income for qualifying persons 62 years old or older or disabled of any age. 19 Orchard Street, Spencer, N. Y. 14883 Office: 607-589-4630 TDD 800-662-1220
JUNE 2022
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
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50 Years Ago June 1972 It’s June 1972. Stevie Wonder, 22, is the warm-up act for the Rolling Stones 30-city tour. A folk Mass is held at the grave of Robert F. Kennedy to commemorate the 4th anniversary of his assassination. Elvis Presley, 37, performs his first concert in New York City. The EPA bans nearly all use of the pesticide DDT. The musical “Fiddler on the Roof” sets a record with 3,225 straight performances on Broadway. Jack Nicklaus wins the US Open. Hurricane Agnes hits New York and Pennsylvania causing massive flooding in the Elmira-Corning area and in Wilkes -Barre, PA, where the Susquehanna crests at over 40 feet. At the Watergate Complex in Washington, D.C., five men are arrested for breaking into the Democratic National Committee Headquarters. The Air Force unveils the new F-15 jet fighter. President Nixon says no new draftees will be sent to Vietnam. At the annual Apalachin Firemen’s Field Days, Lisa Potter is crowned Little Miss Apalachin.
Broome County Airport celebrates its 21st anniversary. A state of emergency is declared in Tioga County due to flooding caused by Hurricane Agnes. Fifteen bridges are washed out or impassible. One-third of the Village of Owego is evacuated. Marvin Park is under nine feet of water. Tioga County residents form collection drives to help the flood victims in Elmira, Corning, and Wilkes-Barre. Best selling books include “The Winds of War,” “Captains and the Kings,” “The Word,” “The Boys of Summer,” and “Jonathan Livingston Seagull.” Top tunes include “Day by Day” by Godspell, “Last Night I Didn’t Get to Sleep at All” by the Fifth Dimension, “Take It Easy” by the Eagles, and “Rocket Man” by Elton John. Movies playing at local theaters include “Clockwork Orange,” “Swiss Family Robinson,” “101 Dalmatians,” “What’s Up Doc?” and “Play Misty for Me.” And Wednesday night TV shows include “Adam-12,” “The Courtship of Eddie’s Father,” “The Smith Family,” “Medical Center,” “Night Gallery,” and “Mannix.”
Hiawatha Island Adventure - June 12 Climb aboard Waterman Center’s boat on June 12 from 9 am to 3 pm for a “Big Island” adventure. Join an island hike and historical tour. Enjoy stories of years gone by and free S’mores. You’ll pass by ruins of the famous Hiawatha Hotel, the old farmstead, and fields while
learning about the island’s past and future as a treasured nature preserve. The Hiawatha Island Tour costs $10 per person. Reserve your tickets online at watermancenter.org or call the center at 625-2221.
HAPPY FATHER’S DAY DAD & GRANDPA
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Montour Family Apartments, L.P. 115 Raymond Street, Montour Falls
One, two and three bedroom units. All ground floor. Available for low income families, elderly and disabled persons of any age. • 15 minutes from Arnot Mall • Non-smoking facility • Rent is based on income • Includes heat, hot water, and garbage pick-up • Laundry on site. Montour Family Apartments, LP 19 Orchard Street, Spencer, N. Y. 14883 Office: 607-589-4630 TDD 800-662-1220
JUNE 2022
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
PAGE 8
WE ARE STILL OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Sweeneys Plaza, Rt 434, Apalachin
Gift Certificates Available Case Discounts on non-sale wines
Black Velvet Toasted Carmel 750 ml. $12.99 • 1.75L $20.99 360 Vodka 1.75 L. $21.99 Hard Ice $2.98ea Adult Freezer Pops Glenlivet 12 year Scotch With 2 Spey Glasses 750 ml. $56.99
TAKE OUT – or - DINE IN
Wed - Sat 7 am to 1:30 pm (closed Mon & Tues) Sunday 7 am to 1 pm
We will be closed June 11 & 12
www.facebook.com/gigisplaceapalachin
www.NikosAutoDetailing.COM
1429 Main Street, Apalachin, N. Y.
A FULLY COMPUTERIZED AUTO REPAIR CENTER DOMESTIC & FOREIGN HAPPY FATHER’S DAY From Nick’s Garage Call for an appointment today 625-3015
JUNE 2022
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
County Legislator Meeting - June 14 The sixth regular meeting of the Tioga County Legislator will be held at 12 Noon on Tuesday, June 14, in the auditorium of the County Office Building, 56 Main St., in Owego. All Committee Meetings and Legislative Worksessions will be held in the Legislative Confer-
ence Room. Individuals requiring accommodation or auxiliary aid may contact the Legislative Office at 687-8240. With advance notice, necessary auxiliary aids will be provided at no cost to the person requesting assistance.
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Coburn Free Library Eliminates Late Fees for Youth Materials
Tioga County Rural Ministry Offers Drawing for Farmer’s Market Line of Credit Low- and moderate-income residents of Tioga County can register now to win $100 worth of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other products from area farms. Winners receive a $100 line of credit for use at this year’s Owego Farmers Market, open 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, Tuesdays and Fridays in the Walgreen’s parking lot in Owego.
To register, call Tioga County Rural Ministry at (607) 687-3021. Or stop by Tioga County Rural Ministry at 143 North Avenue in Owego, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Thursday, or 10:00 am to 2:00 pm Fridays. The registration deadline is June 15.
Winners will be contacted by phone.
by Caroline Beckenhaupt Beginning immediately, the Coburn Library in Owego will no longer assess late fees on its children’s and young adult collections. This includes youth movies. Meredith Gallaro, the executive director of the library, is very happy about this change which was recently approved by the library’s board of directors. “We just care about the books. While I want our materials returned in a timely manner, I don’t believe the answer to late returns is penalizing patrons,” she says, “I believe in building an atmosphere of respect and caring while working toward our mission of putting books into young people’s hands.” Gallaro elaborates, “I know there are people out there holding onto materials because they know they are long overdue. The patron is the most important to us. We welcome you back. Overdue charges are forgiven.” What does this mean for library
patrons? 1) You will no longer receive an overdue fine for the late return of children’s and YA materials. 2) You are still responsible for returning your items so that others may enjoy them. 3) While you will be billed for youth items that are over 30 days overdue, if you return the item, the bill will be cleared from your account. 4) Fines still apply for adult items. 5) The library cannot clear bills for items owned by other libraries. The library’s goal for this change is to remove barriers for families and encourage the use of youth books, movies, and multimedia. Indeed, all materials for children and young adults will now be fine-free. If you have a long-lost or ignored children’s or young adult book that you have been feeling guilty about, you may now return it with pride–and no penalty.
Candor Historical Society Landscape Painting Raffle
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Candor Lower Dam, prior to its demise, an oil painting by local artist Kay Stash, is being raffled to benefit the Candor Historical Society’s general operating funds. Tickets for this 18 X 24-inch artwork are 2 for $10. Photo by Carol A. Henry
JUNE 2022
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
Vendors Wanted for Rotary’s November Arts & Crafts Fair Owego Rotary Club’s popular Arts and Crafts Fair is coming back for its 12th year. Rotary organizers invite local artisans, craftspeople and vendors of farm goods and homemade foods to reserve a booth to display their items for sale on Sunday, November 20, from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, at the Owego Elks Lodge. Vendors may request an application for a booth by sending an email to: contact@owegorotary.org or by calling 687-0229. Applications will also be available at three shops on Front St. in Owego: Black Cat Gallery, Riverow Bookshop, and Tioga Arts Council. On fair day, shoppers will find the event is free, open to the public, and will have an extensive basket collection available. It coincides
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Local Author’s Newest Book
with the always popular Sunday Owego Elks Emporium Market which increases visibility and draws higher traffic at the location. The large number of displays and the wide variety of items will offer shoppers unique selection just in time to begin their holiday shopping. Owego Rotary’s event not only benefits local artisans and appreciative shoppers but aids in the global effort to eradicate polio. Proceeds will be donated to The Rotary Foundation’s campaign to ‘END POLIO NOW.’ Rotary is committed to achieving a polio-free world.
Town of Owego to host Alzheimer Association’s Southern Tier Walk to End Alzheimer’ Dear Editor All too often, many of us hear of a friend or family member having to deal with the devastating effects of Alzheimer's or dementia on their loved ones. My family now understands these struggles as we begin the walk down this path with my mother-in-law, Loretta SanyshynCahill. The Alzheimer's Association® is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Pursuing their vision of a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia by providing critical care, support, and education to all those affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia in our community. In addition, the Alzheimer's Association is the largest nonprofit funder of Alzheimer's research. I am pleased to announce that the Town of Owego will host the Alzheimer Association’s Southern Tier Walk to End Alzheimer's at Hicko-
ries Park, Owego on September 18, 2022. Taking place in more than 600 communities across the nation, Walk to End Alzheimer's is the world's largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer's care, support, and research. I am humbly asking that you support this event, financially, by volunteering to help make the event a success, or by spreading the word in the community. In the 30 years I have lived in Owego, I have found it to be a caring, giving community. No matter how big or small the cause, our residents always demonstrate their generosity and care for others. I am confident this event will not be an exception. For more information, or to get involved, please contact Kirsten Johnson, Walk Manager, at kiiohnsonalz.orci or (315) 612-2747. Respectfully, Donald Castellucci, Jr. Owego Town Supervisor
Tioga State Bank Featured in National Business View Magazine Tioga State Bank was featured in the April/May issue of the national publication, Business View Magazine. The article centered around the bank’s community-first commitment to serving its customers and communities, especially during the early months of the Coronavirus outbreak. In the article, Tioga State Bank President and CEO Robert Fisher stated, “The bank processed almost 950 loans during the pandemic, averaging around $69,000 per loan, with its largest loan amounting to $2.7 million. “We were doing whatever we could to help small businesses that needed the money to keep their businesses going – and it felt really good,” Fisher added. “Never have I seen our team come together and work like that. People were working on evenings, nights, and weekends because it was truly a mission to help our community and customers get through this.” In addition, the TSB Foundation, Inc. and bank employees worked out in the community helping with food distribution to residents in need and to front-line health care providers as a thank you
for their countless hours of dedication. The article can be found at: https://businessviewmagazine.com/ digital-magazines/apr-2022/171/ Mr. Fisher recently completed his term as Chairman of the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA). In this role, he crisscrossed the nation, educating and advocating for the important role and unique value that community banks provide for Americans and their communities. Topics the ICBA promotes include banking access, financial literacy, cybersecurity, banking careers, and more. Tioga State Bank, with 100 employees and $547 million in assets, provides financial services to the Southern Tier of New York State and Northern Pennsylvania with eleven conveniently located community offices in Broome, Tioga, Chemung, and Tompkins counties. The bank’s website address is www.tiogabank.com and phone number is 1-888-303-4872. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.
Local author Sue Heavenrich’s newest children’s book is all about fungi. Coauthored with Alisha Gabriel, “Funky Fungi: 30 Activities for Exploring Molds, Mushrooms, Lichens, and More” goes well beyond pizza toppings. Published by Chicago Review Press, Funky Fungi releases June 21 and is filled with activities perfect for summer vacation. “We’re hoping our book will inspire kids to head outside and explore fungi,” says Sue. The book illustrates the diverse roles fungi play in the environment, from decomposers to plant partnerships and even how they’re used to clean up pollution. If some fungi cause itchy feet and human diseases, others provide the cures. Fungi even play a role in crime scene investigations, helping forensic scientists determine who-done-it. “This is an entire kingdom of organisms that we are still learning about,” says Sue. “Scientists have described and named around 140,000 species of fungi, but most mycologists believe that number represents only five percent of the total.” Funky Fungi highlights some local connections, too. “Readers get to visit Hawk Meadow Farm in Trumansburg, where Steve and Anne Sierigk cultivate mushrooms on logs,” says Sue. “We also profile Dr. Kathie T. Hodge, mycologist at Cornell University and director of Cornell Plant Pathology Herbarium.” Sue and Alisha started working on Funky Fungi during the pandemic, but the idea was planted years earlier. During a nature walk at a writing workshop, Alisha stopped to photograph a mush-
room and the two writers began talking about fungi, writing, and children’s books. When things shut down due to Covid, collaborating on a book made sense. “I feel we bring complementary skill sets to the project,” says Sue, a biologist and former high school science teacher. She shares hands-on science activities and reviews STEM books on her blog, Archimedes Notebook, and for more than 20 years wrote the science column for Ithaca Child. Her books include “13 Ways to Eat a Fly,” illustrated by David Clark, and “Diet for a Changing Climate: Food for Thought” with co-author Christy Mihaly. Alisha is an elementary music teacher and adjunct professor at Southwestern University. Not only has she used her writing skills to win four grants to benefit her students, but she’s played flute and piccolo for video games – and even a TV commercial. Her books include “Good Sports: Elliot Mack, Quarterback, and Silento:
Chamber of Commerce’s “Spotlight on Nonprofits” The Tioga County Chamber of Commerce announced that Tioga County Rural Ministry has been named the first “Spotlight on Nonprofits” for June 2022. Tioga County Rural Ministry’s (TCRM) mission is to serve the unmet needs of the poor, sick and elderly in Tioga County. A small staff, over 200 volunteers, and generous community support help deliver on this mission. Providing emergency food is TCRM’s largest service. TCRM supports county residents with financial assistance for other pressing life needs such as housing, utilities, car repairs, and Covid relief. TCRM also provides unique services to improve quality of life with accessibility ramps, spring cleanup for seniors, back-to-school clothing for
teens, Mapleridge Ranch camperships for youth, and refurbished used bicycles for children and adults. In addition, this year TCRM began offering tuition assistance to low to moderate income residents interested in attending BOCES classes to provide a path toward skilled jobs that will enable attainment of a living wage, e.g., plumber, electrician. The “Spotlight on Business” program, sponsored by WEBO, Your Hometown Station, and the “Owego Pennysaver” is another opportunity for the Tioga County Chamber of Commerce to show its appreciation to chamber members for supporting the Tioga County Chamber of Commerce and for investing in our community.
JUNE 2022
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
Tioga Downs Relaunching Regional Community Foundation After pausing the program due to the ongoing pandemic, Tioga Downs Casino Resort is stepping up to once again help organizations in their community. The Tioga Downs Regional Community Foundation is once again accepting grant applications, and will distribute $1 million to 501(c)3 organizations that combat local poverty and community deterioration. “It’s a special day to be able to resurrect this program,” says owner Jeffrey Gural. “The pandemic has been hard on all of us, and for us to be able to relaunch this effort to support organizations who are doing everything they can to make our community a better place is crucial. It’s part of our mission to help those who are putting in the work to change lives, and this foundation allows us to do that.” The Regional Community Foundation aims to provide funds to groups that advance charitable, reli-
gious, literary, scientific, and educational purposes in Broome, Tioga, Chemung, and Bradford (PA) counties. Its mission is to promote economic and community development in the counties surrounding Tioga Downs. Interested applicants must mail a hard copy of their complete application to PO Box 15, Nichols, NY 13827, and must be postmarked no later than October 1st, 2022. Applications can be found on the Tioga Downs Casino and Resort website here. Grant recipients will be announced in early November, and will be awarded on Giving Tuesday, November 29th, 2022 in an evening ceremony at the Tioga Downs Casino and Resort event center. For interview opportunities regarding the Tioga Downs Regional Community Foundation, please contact Stephen Donnelly & Associates.
Apalachin Library
719 Main Street, Apalachin, NY (607) 625-3333 www.apalachinlibrary.org Summer Reading Program The theme is Oceans of Possibilities and there is something for everyone from the youngest to the oldest in the family. 4th of July The library will be closed Monday, July 4. Have a happy and safe holiday. Thank You Thank you to everyone who supported this library by voting “YES” on May 17. Maker Space Saturday, June 18, 11am-1pm There will be something for all ages. Story Time Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10:30am Story Time will continue until June 16. There will be no story time on June 21/23 or June 28/30. Summer Story Time will be held July 5/7 through August 23/25. The theme for each week will be the ocean, water, and fish. Each session will include reading, games, songs, a craft and a snack. This program is for preschoolers through early elementary children and an adult. Youth Sewing Meet Up Tuesday, 5 - 6:30pm For youth ages 10-18 who are interested in sewing. Bring a project that you are working on, an idea for a project, or just to find out more about it. Book Barn Thanks for donating wonderful books to the library. The Book Barn is a great community asset. Imagine getting a whole bag of books for $5.00! The Friends of the Library maintain the book barn and are always in need of more people to help sort books, shelve books, and more. Oceans of Possibilities Have you and your family ever been fishing? If you are interested in trying it out, the library has fishing poles and tackle to loan. Loans are for 7 days and there are no holds placed on this equipment. Don’t forget Empire Passes. They give you free parking at NY State Parks. (Adults need fishing licenses, don’t forget).
June at the Coburn Free Library 275 Main St. in Owego, 687-3520
Use the library’s events page or contact the library to register for an event. (www.coburnfreelibrary.org/events) Tech Support Tuesday Tuesdays, 2-3pm Registration is required. Storytime with Mrs. G Wednesdays, 10:15am Registration is requested. Book Sale June 10, Friday, 10am - 5pm, and June 11, Saturday, 1pm - 4pm Sponsored by the Friends of the Coburn Free Library.
Taming the Dragon of Anxiety with Sarah Mission Thursday, June 16, 5:30-6:30pm. Registration is required. LEGO Club Tuesday, JUNE 21, 6pm Registration is required. Literary Art Club Saturday, June 25, 2pm A new kind of book club. Registration is required.
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Reader’s Club Preschoolers through 12th Graders can sign up to read a number of minutes each week that they choose beginning the week of July 3rd. When they complete their reading minutes each week, they can come to the library, let us know that they are done, and choose a book to keep. This program ends on August 19th. Teens and Adults This summer, the librarians are encouraging you to think about possibilities. For 6 weeks beginning the week of July 3, stop in to see what they have for you to think about – maybe something new to do. After 6 weeks you can fill out a card with what you did and thought about the program. Drop the card in a bag for a drawing. Two people will win prizes. Family Night Thursdays in July, 7pm Free family fun July 7 - Family BINGO July 14 - The Bubble Man July 21 - Movie night “Finding Nemo” A free concession stand will be available. July 28 - Magician David Black American Girl Program July 18 or August 8, 1-3pm Children ages 8 to 13 may choose July 18 OR August 8. Turn the clock back to 1934 and learn how Kit Kittredge weathered hard times with courage and enthusiasm. Participants will make an authentic Depressions Era recipe, learn about hobo code, and try newspaper writing. Please sign up for this program. Receive a book about Kit at the program. Fabric Dying Tuesday, July 12, 6:30 pm OR Tuesday, August 2, 6:30 pm Join Brianna on either July 12 or Aug. 2 to learn the art of dyeing fabrics with vegetable dyes. You do not need to bring anything but you do need to register. There will be a limited number of spaces because of the nature of the craft.