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APALACHIN • OWEGO • NICHOLS TIOGA CENTER • NEWARK VALLEY
CAMPVILLE • BARTON • CANDOR SMITHBORO • CATATONK
YOUR HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER • Volume 36
www.CommunityPress.us
NOVEMBER 2021
Hose Team & VFW Monte Carlo Night Fundraiser - Nov. 6
Owego VFW Post 1371 and VFW Auxiliary with Owego Hose Teams, Inc. are bringing back Monte Carlo Night after a one-year absence, Saturday, November 6, from 7:00 to 11:00 pm, at the Owego VFW Post 1371 Hall, 207 Main Street in Owego. A donation is asked at the door but $9 is recommended. Proceeds will be split by the hosting organizations. The Hose Team will use funds to support its 1866 Amoskeag Steam Fire Engine restoration and Steamer House project. The VFW uses funding for a variety of community programs to include its annual Christmas party and movie for area children. Games will include Black Jack, Big Six Wheel, Beat the Dealer, Money Wheel, Chuck-of-Luck, 50/50, and Turkey Raffle. Food, drink and entertainment will be provided. DJ Tom Donovan, Jr. of Flat Rats Adventures will be spinning your favorite tunes of today and yesteryear from 9:00 pm
until closing. The Owego Free Academy Making the Band (MTB) will perform from 7:00 to 9:00 pm. MTB is a group of Owego Free Academy student musicians. This group was formed in August 2007 and since then has developed a large fanbase who enjoy supporting the efforts of these young musicians. MTB performs a sampling of both well-known and upcoming rock, pop, and indie artists. MTB is a training experience for high school students to learn to perform popular music outside the walls of a concert hall. OFA is the first school in the Southern Tier to sponsor a group like this and MTB has quickly become one of the premier ensembles at the school. Many student musicians have the talent and desire to continue performing after high school and MTB provides them with an experience to learn how to be a professional musician. All COVID-19 protocols will be followed at the event.
Veterans’ Day in Owego - November 11 Veterans Day 2021 is back home to Glenn A. Warner Memorial Hall of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1371 at 11:00 am, Thursday, November 11. Welcome Home to Veterans of Modern Warfare in Afghanistan and Iraq. Joining them will be veterans of Vietnam, Korea and WWII. The Honor Guard of VFW Post 1371 will post and retire the Colors. National Anthem. Invocation/Benediction by Deacon Michael Donovan. Veterans will share their military stories. Tioga County Veterans Service Agency Director Michael F. Middaugh will read the Honored Names of Deceased Tioga County Veterans from Memorial Day. He will also cover his agency’s services. Do Something for Veterans’ Day The public is asked to “Honor All Who Served.” Encourage veterans to share their military stories with the younger generation before it is too late. Participate in Owego-Apalachin Middle School’s 8th Grade Social Studies “In Harm’s Way” project. Teacher Mike Bartlow’s students are tasked with finding and interviewing a veteran for “In
STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #9 APALACHIN, NY
Harm’s Way.” Let there be an abundance of American flags downtown and in residential neighborhoods. For example: Owego Kiwanis’ small American flags in a V formation in Kiwanis Circle off Rt. 17C by McDonalds. In-store support for the Buddy Poppy Program in Apalachin at Blue Dolphin and Sweeney’s and in Owego at Community Shop, Parkview and Owego Kitchen. “Thank You, Veterans” banners posted on the south and north bound sides of the Owego North Avenue Underpass and entrances to communities. Creative patriotic decorations. Write “thank-you” notes to veterans at Riverview, Elderwood, and Oxford Veterans Home. Little things mean a lot - rake leaves at the home of a veteran, sound fire/emergency alarms and sirens on fire trucks and emergency vehicles, ring church bells 11 times at 11 am. Think out of the box for other activities. For more information contact the VFW Post 1371 Veterans Day Chairman Jim Raftis at jraftis2@stny.rr.com.
Number 11
Steamer House Site Groundbreaking
A ground breaking ceremony was held on October 18 for the future Steam Fire Engine House to be constructed immediately north of Fire Station #2 at the former Lloyd’s Barbershop site on North Avenue in Owego. The building will house and showcase the Owego Fire Department’s 1866 Amoskeag Steam Fire Engine and 1938 Sanford Hose Truck now under the care, custody, and control of Owego Hose Teams, Inc. Mike Haas with Delta Engineers and Steve McElwain with McElwain Engineering designed the site and building plans through in-kind contributions to the planning phase of the project thus far. The building is modeled after one located in Marathon, NY, and will be constructed of cedar wood frame and glass solarium walls for 360 degree viewing with a steeple supporting an antique fire bell previously located in the clock tower of the Owego Central Fire Station. The bell was removed earlier this year and is under repair at the Verdin Bell Company in Ohio. Once installed in the Steamer House it will ring again.
Veterans Day Ceremony November 11, 11:00 am at the VFW Post 1371 Owego
Another feature of the site will be an eternal flame honoring past and present volunteer firefighters. The 8-foot high structure with a flame at the top will burn 24 hours a day, recognizing the never-ending commitment of volunteers. John Chandler with JOC Construction is handling all site work that should be completed this year. Building construction by Middendorf Contracting could begin next spring . The Hose Team and fire department personnel removed the abandoned barbershop building, fencing, and trees that were on the site, paving the way for Chandler’s work to begin immediately. The Steam Fire Engine is under repair at Firefly Restorations in Hope, Maine. The 154-year-old Steamer has not been operational since the late 1980s at which time it was the oldest operating licensed steam fire engine in the United States. Work on the Steamer is projected to be completed sometime next year. You can donate to the project by becoming a “Steam Booster” at www.OwegoHoseTeams.com.
NOVEMBER 2021
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
PAGE 2
Grace’s Place
Starting at:
$189.95
Grace’s Place is a free “drop off” Senior Respite program held monthly on the second Saturday afternoon from 1:00 to 4:00 pm at Grace Lutheran Church, 709 Main Street in Vestal. Following two trial sessions, Grace’s Place was officially initiated January 2019. COVID halted operations March of 2020. Targeted demographics are caregivers of seniors in need of socialization. Caregivers get a few hours to “do their own thing.” Seniors enjoy a variety of age-appropriate activities including crafts, an interactive audiovisual program, games, and a snack.
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Your Local Gold Service Center! We’re the only Elite STIHL Dealer in the area! Your Chainsaw Headquarters for over 70 years!
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The Apalachin Lions, in conjunction with its parent organization (Lions Clubs International), is sponsoring a sophomore student from Owego Free Academy and Vestal Senior High School to participate in the regional Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) workshop. It will be held in the spring of 2022. The Apalachin Lions believe that
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table. Cost is $6.00 and includes a hot turkey sandwich and a beverage. Nichols American Legion Post 1624 is at 119 Dean Street in Nichols. For more information, call (607) 699-7994.
Tioga Co. Chamber of Commerce Announces New President & CEO
185 Shady Hill R., Apalachin 607-625-4658 PICKUP AND DELIVERY AVAILABLE
607-625-3131 or 607-754-2541
HOBY will benefit the participant as well as his/her peers, the school, and the community at large. Students can get more information from their school’s guidance department: at Owego Free Academy contact Kim Hakney and at Vestal Senior High School contact Rebecca Martino.
Turkey Party in Nichols - Nov. 13 The Annual Turkey Party of the Nichols American Legion, Sons and Auxiliary, will be held on Saturday, November 13, from 6:00 to 9:00pm. The event includes raffles, games of chance, and pie
Van Dervort Repair And Rebuild Service
Apalachin, NY
Volunteers are parish members and friends, Binghamton University Alzheimer’s Association members and premedical students. Guests must be accompanied by a caregiver to their initial visit to establish appropriateness and ensure comfort level. Guests should be able to eat and toilet independently; may have vague memory issues or early Alzheimer’s. Masks and COVID-19 vaccinations are required of all participants, guests, and volunteers. For more information, call (607) 7480840.
The Tioga County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors announced a new leadership at the Chamber. Sabrina Henriques has been named as the new President and CEO and started at her new post on Tuesday, October 12. Ms. Henriques is currently working to complete a Master’s Degree in Accounting and Finance to accompany her undergraduate degree in Business and Quality Assurance. She has an extensive background living and working all over the country and world, working with both federal and nonprofit organizations. Prior to her move to Tioga County, Ms. Henriques served as Executive Director for the Danville Library Foundation in Illinois, Fundraising and Quality Manager for the Goodwill International Founda-
Martin
Plumbing & Heating Quality Reliable Service 3908 Waverly Road, Owego, New York 13827
607-687-1295
FURNACES BOILERS WATER HEATERS GOULDS WATER PUMPS PLUMBING FIXTURES SEWER & DRAIN CLEANING WATER CONDITIONING AIR CONDITIONING
“ON THE RUN AROUND THE CLOCK”
tion in Colorado, Program Manager for the Aviano Community Center in Italy, VP of Development at 1221 Grant Services in Mississippi and the Gulf Coast, Fielding Director for SMS Hawaii in Honolulu and most recently as Director of Development and Communications with Catholic Charities of Broome County. Tioga County Chamber of Commerce Board Chair LeeAnn Tinney stated, “We are certainly fortunate to bring Sabrina on board as our new President and CEO. She brings with her extensive knowledge and background in the world of nonprofits, fundraising, and community relations.” Tinney went on to say that Ms. Henriques brings a fresh perspective and is looking forward to the direction she will take the Chamber. As Chamber President and CEO, Henriques is responsible for leadership, operational planning and management, fundraising, advocacy, and business development. “My current plans for the Chamber involve building a targeted marketing plan to increase membership, expand existing programs to include young adults and youth, and identify potential grant funding sources”, Henriques stated. “I am very mission committed. I attribute my work ethic to being in a military environment for over 20 years,” said Henriques. Ms. Henriques resides with her family in Apalachin. Her husband is retired from the military and now owns and operates a dental practice in Vestal. Tioga County's
COMMUNITY PRESS
Volume 36 Number 11 November 2021 © 2021 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
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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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COMMUNITY PRESS www.CommunityPress.us
NOVEMBER 2021
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
PAGE 3
Groundbreaking Held at Waterman Center 19 Delaware Ave., Endicott, NY 13760
CALL 607-754-0707 • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INSTALLATIONS •
On October 8, the Tioga County Chamber of Commerce held a groundbreaking ceremony at Waterman Conservation Education Center in Apalachin. Waterman Center is breaking ground on a facility that will demonstrate various techniques for storm water management. It will include a variety of water pervious surface in their parking lot and a series of vegetated retention ponds and wetland areas to purify runoff before reaching our sensitive waterways. A meandering path will connect exhibits on water quality, flood prevention, and erosion distributed
between wooded meadows, pools, and storm water installations. More frequent extreme weather events expose the entire Susquehanna and Chesapeake Bay watershed system to flooding and pollution visitors to the new immersive exhibit will investigate how these techniques can minimize these impacts and how they might be employed at their homes and businesses. Waterman Center is at 403 Hilton Road in Apalachin. For more information, visit its web site at www.watermancenter.org
6278 Rte. 434, Apalachin
Margaret Karpel – E-mail: mkarpel@stny.rr.com
INDEPENDENT AVON REPRESENATIVE
Call today for an appointment 607-625-3591
Happy Thanksgiving, friends
Remembering to be Thankful
Apalachin Lions Annual Coat Drive The Apalachin Lions is collecting clean useable winter coats now through November 21. You can drop off the coats at the following locations: • St. Margaret Mary’s Church on Pennsylvania Avenue in Apalachin. Leave the coats on the table at the right as you exit mass; • Apalachin United Methodist Church
at 303 Pennsylvania Avenue in Apalachin; • Apalachin Library on Main Street in Apalachin during regular library hours; and • Johnson’s Pools and Spas, Rt 434 in Owego. The coats will be given to those in need. The Apalachin Lions thank you for your help.
Scott Smith & Son
Former Owego School Superintendent Writes Historical Novel
8 Delphine St. Owego, NY
607-687-1803 www.warmcomfort.com
Nearly 100 years of Being like Family
JOHN Fran Murphy, former Owego Free Academy Superintendent of Schools, visited Riverow Bookshop in Owego last month to sign copies of his new historical novel, “Teacher Spy Assassin.”
Murphy, who resided in the Owego area during the 1980s, spearheaded computer technology growth for Owego school students and was very active in the community at large.
Rick Pedro PIANO TUNING & REPAIR 15% off your first tuning
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8240 Route 434 Apalachin (1.4 miles east of Pa. Ave.) 607-258-0008 • Mon - Fri 8am - 5pm
Oil Changes • Tires •Batteries & All Repairs
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607-759-9282 • Apalachin, NY Stream & Ditch Repair Gravel –Mulch—Topsoil 607 222 4096 rpedro1@stny.rr.com
www.rickpedro.com
Email: mwbmwmrw@aol.com www.MikesGroundworks.com
Excavation Retaining Walls FULLY INSURED
NOVEMBER 2021
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
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NOVEMBER 2021
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
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Area Ribbon Cuttings
Chat-A-Wyle
OPEN FOR DINING INSIDE!
Our Hours are: 11am to 3 pm Monday thru Saturday (closed Sunday) We will be closed Thanksgivings Day
Our regular menu is available for Take-Out or Dine In
Please call ahead for take out 607-625-2834 LIKE US ON FACEBOOK
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on October 23 to celebrate the opening of Fondation, a home, life and style boutique at 167 Main St. in Owego. Owners Amber Lopez and Adriel Guy offer ethically sourced products including home goods, furniture, and clothing.
Your #1 store for premium CBD and Hemp products. Apothecary of Mary CBD Store 332 Broad Street, Waverly, N. Y. Monday thru Saturday • 607-249-6128 www.apothecaryofmarycbdstore.com
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on October 26 for Pet Passages of the Finger Lakes at 1040 Owego Road in Candor, a full service funeral home offering personalized care to guide you through the loss of your pet. Fingerlakes.ny.petpassages.com
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
20 lb. Refill A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on October 22 to celebrate the purchase of a 107-acre farm in Candor by Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE), Tioga County. The farm is at 343 Cass Hill Rd. and consists of 75 acres, open pasture, and 32 wooded acres.
CALL FOR COMPETITIVE PRICES • 607-748-3989 •
PROPANE FUEL OIL • KEROSENE
WOOD PELLETS & COAL by the Bag 19 LAKE STREET, OWEGO Specializing in fun and games for the entire family
GET READY FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON
COLORFORMS 70th Anniversary Set The Classic Picture Toy That Sticks Like Magic
New Broil King gas grills in stock fully assembled Playmobil Advent Calendars
We are stocked up and ready for Christmas For Holiday hours please call • Follow us on Facebook
Gas grill parts for all makes of grills in stock! Call for Furnace Installation Estimates
NOVEMBER 2021
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
PAGE 6
Dollar General Donates 100 Books To Tioga Hills Elementary School
Join us for Karaoke Saturdays Nov 13th 8pm We are open for TAKE OUT or DINE IN We will be closed Thanksgiving Day
The Terrace The Friendly Neighborhood Tavern Rt. 434, Apalachin, New York 625-3935
HAPPY THANKSGIVING Sk
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from the employees of Skyline Services
1-800-258-9404 Check out our new Mobile Web Site!
Dollar General became a part of the neighborhood with a 100-book donation to Tioga Hills Elementary School on October 26, 2021. It is part of the company’s mission, “Serving Others.” The books were dropped off by the manager of the Dollar General located at 2301 Vestal Parkway West, April Halstead, and an associate (and Tioga Hills parent) Kathy Lamphere. Tioga Hills Principal Hayley Crimmins anticipated placing the books in the school library so that all of the school’s students could enjoy them.
Coat Drive Tioga State Bank and Moreton Cleaners are sponsoring a Coat Drive until November 19. Drop off your new or gently used coats to Tioga State Bank
offices in Spencer, Candor, Owego, Newfield, or Waverly. The coats will be distributed throughout Tioga County.
County Legislature Meeting - Nov. 9 WE INSURE NEW YORK & PENNSYLVANIA FARMS • MOBILE HOMES • RENTALS • HOMEOWNERS AUTO • TRUCKERS • WORK COMP • BUSINESS
Skyline Services
891 Pa Ave, Little Meadows, Pa.
The eleventh regular meeting of the Tioga County Legislature will be held at 12:00 Noon on Tuesday, November 9, in the auditorium of the county office building at 56 Main Street in Owego. The 2022 Tentative Budget Hearing will be held on Nobember 9 at 9:30 am in the auditorium
Committee meetings and legislative worksessions will be held in the auditorium. Individuals who require accommodation or axiliary aid should contact the legislative office at 687-8240. With advance notice, necessary auxiliary aids will be provided at no cost to the person requesting assistance.
Coleman & Daniels FUNERAL HOME LLC
6519 Rt 434 Apalachin, NY 607-625-3010
300 Main Street Endicott, NY 607-785-0411
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
FOR SALE: Burn barrels $10 each or 3 for $25. Call 607-205-9547 10/21
HELP WANTED: Wanted experienced mechanic. Must have New York State Inspection License Apply in person only. Nicks Garage, Main St Apalachin. 2421
765 Main Street Vestal, NY 607-748-4695 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
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 BEE SWARMS WANTED: Bee swarms wanted on trees and in buildings. Call 607-625-3318 or 607-201-4357 4/22
WANTED: Your classified ad for our December 2021 issue. Please send in the your ad by November 24, 2021., with payment of $7.50
SEND US YOUR CLASSIFIED ADS Community Press, 7830 Rt 434, Apalachin, N.Y. 13732
NOVEMBER 2021
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
PAGE 7
50 Years Ago November 1971 It’s November 1971. The Anglican Church ordains its first women priests. The People’s Republic of China joins the UN. A Northwest Orient Airlines 727 is hijacked by “D. B. Cooper” who claims to have a bomb in his briefcase and demands 4 parachutes and $200,000 in twenty-dollar bills. After the plane lands in Seattle, Cooper is given the money and parachutes and the other passengers are allowed to leave the plane. Per Cooper’ demands, the plane takes off for Mexico City. But somewhere between Washington and Nevada, Cooper jumps out of the plane with a parachute and the money, and is never seen again. In Tioga County, Ruton E. Beauter is elected sheriff, and legislators are elected to the new Tioga County Legislature which replaces the Tioga County Board of Supervisors. The Owego Town Board passes a budget of $1,929,001.97 for 1972.
The Village of Owego plans to build a scenic promenade on the river behind Front Street. The first snowfall brings two inches of snow. The Tioga County Board of Supervisors aughorizes the purchase of the old Owego Jr. High School for $140,000, contingent upon the approval of voters. Top Tunes include “Gypsies, Tramps & Thieves” by Cher, “Theme from Shaft” by Isaac Hayes, “Imagine” by John Lennon & The Plastic Ono Band, and “Family Affair” by Sly & the Family Stone. Wednesday night TV shows include “Adam-12,” “Bewitched,” “NBC Mystery Movie,” “Shirley’s World” starring Shirley MacLaine, “Rod Serling’s Night Gallery,” and “Mannix.” Movies playing in local theaters include “Paint Your Wagon,” “Bullitt,” “See No Evil,” “West Side Story,” and “Around the World in 80 Days.”
2713 Pennsylvania Ave., Apalachin, NY 13732
CALL MAGGIE FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY Floyd Wright Jr. “The Wright Choice” Open: Monday - Friday 8am to 5pm 607-625-5279 • www.ApalachinAutoRepair.com
Book Bonanza at Coburn Library - Nov 5 & 6 The Friends of the Coburn Free Library will hold a Book Bonanza on Friday, November 5 from 10:00 am to 5:00pm, and Saturday, November 6, from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. Come to the library, located at 275 Main Street in Owego, and browse the many available books (fiction & nonfiction) for children and adults. There will also be a selection of DVDs, CDs, and audio books.
There is no charge for any of these great offerings, but donations are greatly appreciated. The installation of the elevator annex entry makes accessing the Book Bonanza much easier than in the past. Please be aware that masks are required while in the library and that you are asked to BYOB ( Bring Your Own Bag).
719 Main St, Apalachin, NY 625-3333
STEM STEM is now meeting Mondays at 2:30 instead of 2 pm. This group will meet each Monday in November. Story Time November Schedule 11/2 and 11/4 will be as usual. 11/9 will be the only one storytime this this week. (11/11 is Veteran’s Day) 11/16 and 11/18 will be as usual. 11/23 and 11/25 – NO Story Time (Thanksgiving week) 11/30 and 12/2 will be as usual. Friends of the Library Tuesday, November 9, 6:30-7:30pm There hasn’t been a meeting since before the pandemic. Get to know each other again and talk about the group’s goals. If you would like to join the meeting, just come. Maker Space Saturday, November 20, 11am-1pm Making fabric corn decorations and cinnamon stick macramé wall hangings. Little ones can weave or paint an Indian corn decoration and there will be various other projects to try for any skill level. If you missed the library’s Harvest Fest, you’ll have a chance to make one of the very cute fabric pumpkins. Hours The library will be closed on Thursday, November 11, for Veteran’s Day, and on Thursday & Friday, November 25 & 26 for Thanksgiving. Veterans The librarians want to thank Veterans for their service with a small sweet treat. Stop in and let them know that you have served our country. And thank you!
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
At The Apalachin Library
Coat Drive Now until Nov. 27 The library is helping the Apalachin Lions collect coats. You can drop off clean, useable coats when the library is open.
Have a Happy Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving Recipes Do you have a favorite Thanksgiving recipe that you’d like to share? The librarians are collecting recipes now through November 23 and putting them on a display in the library. After Thanksgiving, the librarians will take them down, and make copies for anyone who would like them. If you’d like a recipe card, they will be near the display. The Book Barn All Danielle Steel books are half price in November. The library is not taking non-fiction books - this includes cookbooks, craft books, and any informational books. Featured Author This month’s featured author is Elizabeth Strout. She has written eight novels including “Olive Kitteridge” which won the 2009 Pulitzer Prize for fiction. Find her books on display in the library.
Rental
607-625-9904
members call us directly
Happy Thanksgiving from
Vestal Wine & Liquor ( 4 Corners Plaza next to Big Lots) Phone 607-785-8451
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • 364 Days a year!
www.VestalWineAndLiquor.com
OPEN THANKSGIVING DAY 9:30 am – 3:00 pm Evan Williams 1.75 L
$26.99
Jigsaw Puzzle There is a jigsaw puzzle out on a table. If you have a few minutes and would enjoy helping put it together, please do!
Tanqueray Gin 1.75 L
The Big Library Read Now through Nov. 15 The Big Library Read is an opportunity for those with a valid library card to read the same digital title at the same time without any wait lists or holds. You can join others around the world in borrowing and reading Natalie D. Richards’s thriller, “Five Total Strangers” from your digital library. (https:// flls.overdrive.com) Readers can discuss online at https://biglibraryread.com/join-thediscussion.
$39.99
Little Blue Food Cupboard The little blue food cupboard is in the lobby now. Donations of Thanksgiving meal items are appreciated. Please take whatever you would like anytime the library is open. Everyone is welcome.
Towing 607-625-5653
Captain Morgan Spiced 1.75 L
Jameson
Svedka
Johnnie Walker
2 for $60
1.75 L
1.75 L
$49.99
2 for $40
Red 1.75L $36.99
Smirnoff Vodka
Bacardi Rum
$38.99
$18.99
$19.99
Jim Beam
Titos
Black Velvet
Kahula 1.75 L.
1.75 L.
$28.99
1.75 L.
1.75 L
$33.99
1.75 L
1.75 L
$16.99
NOVEMBER 2021
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
PAGE 8
O’Tannenbaum Holiday Showcase The Tioga County Historical Society opens its annual O Tannenbaum Holiday Showcase Fundraiser on Tuesday, November 2, at 10:00 am, at its museum in Owego. More than 100 trees, wreaths, and other items will be up for auction. A toy display, “Toys of the Old West”, will also be on display. Children can write and mail letters to Santa – and receive responses in the mail – and even visit him when he stops by the museum. All proceeds directly benefit the Tioga County Historical Society. The Tioga County Historical Society Museum is at 110 Front Street in Owego. For more information, call the museum at 687-2460 or visit tiogahistory.org.
607-625-2212
TAKE OUT – or - DINE IN Hours: Wed - Sat 7 am to 1:30 pm Sunday 7 am to 1 pm (Closed Mon & Tues) Closed Sun Nov 7 Closed Thanksgiving week (Nov 22 to 26) OPEN Nov 27 & 28 www.facebook.com/gigisplaceapalachin
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Open on Thanksgiving Day 10 am - 5 pm
Sweeneys Plaza, Rt 434, Apalachin
White Wines
Red Wines
Riesling Gewurztraminer Sauvignon Blanc Pinot Grigio
www.NikosAutoDetailing.COM
Pinot Noir Zinfandel Syrah
NOW CARRYING KOSHER WINES
Gift Certificates Available • Case Discounts on non-sale wines
1429 Main Street, Apalachin, N. Y.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS
Thank you to all of our Veterans for their service Veterans Day November 11th
A FULLY COMPUTERIZED AUTO REPAIR CENTER DOMESTIC & FOREIGN Call Earl for an appointment 607-625-3015
Alonnie 12
Sophia 13
Nick Rossi Sr.
NOVEMBER 2021
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
Rehabilitation Project Completed in Village of Owego
PAGE 9
Veteran Recognition for Tioga County
Tioga County to Participate in Operation Green Light
167 - 169 and 171 Main Street, Owego - Before
167 - 169 and 171 Main Street, Owego - After TEAM Tioga, the Village of Owego and local property owners, Alan and Kirsten Briggs and George and Diane Awad, are pleased to announce the recent completion of the Village of Owego Main Street Rehabilitation project. This $1.3 million project, which was developed under the Empire State Development Restore New York Round V and Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) programs, included the full interior and exterior rehabilitation of two vacant mixed-use buildings located at 167169 and 171 Main Street in the heart of the Village’s downtown central business district. Village of Owego Mayor, Michael Baratta, noted “These buildings are located in a highly visible area of the Village, and are one of the first impressions that visitors and residents have of downtown Owego. The Village is incredibly pleased with this investment in the heart of our downtown, and we look forward to our continued partnership with Team Tioga and New York State in the revitalization of our historic downtown through the DRI program.” The rehabilitation of the buildings included the build-out of two new commercial spaces on the first floor, and ten residential units on the second and third floors, in addition to building façade improvements that maintain both the historical integrity and character of the Village's commercial district. Brittany Woodburn, Deputy Director of Tioga County Economic Development and Planning, noted, “Both the Restore NY and DRI programs have had a truly meaningful impact in Tioga County and the Village of Owego. The rehabilitation of these buildings has not only helped strengthen the Village’s vibrant main street community, but it has also spurred additional economic
investment through the attraction of new businesses, visitors and residents.” Jon Ward, Vice President and Commercial Services Officer with Tioga State Bank, added, “As a local community banker, I have the unique opportunity to participate in projects like these that not only improve a community, but the community that I live and work in. I am honored to see, firsthand, the difference Tioga State Bank can make in our neighborhoods.” The Restore New York Communities Initiative and DRI programs provide municipalities with financial assistance to aid communities in their efforts to transform downtown neighborhoods into vibrant centers that offer a high quality of life and are magnets for redevelopment, business, job creation, and economic and housing diversity. Thanks to a nearly $1,000,000 investment by the New York State Department of State and Empire State Development through these programs, the local property owners are happy to report that the transformation of this particular block of Main Street in Owego has been achieved. Alan Briggs, property owner at 167169 Main Street stated, “The costs associated with historic redevelopment, often make the renovation of historic structures infeasible. The Restore New York and DRI funds in partnership with local lender, Tioga State Bank, were crucial in allowing us to complete the full scope of this project.” George Awad, property owner at 171 Main Street also added, “We are greatly appreciative to New York State, Tioga County, the Village of Owego and Tioga State Bank for all of their assistance with these projects. Without the efforts of all, we would not have been able to make transforming these historic buildings a reality.”
As we get closer to Veterans Day, Legislative Chairwoman Martha Sauerbrey encourages the community to participate in Operation Green Light as an expression of support and gratitude for men and women in uniform. Operation Green Light is a collaboration between the NYSAC, NYSCEA, the NYS County Veteran Service Officers’ Association, and the 62 counties of New York State. Its mission is to show support for veterans of all military conflicts, with a special emphasis on the veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as raise awareness about the challenges faced by many veterans and the resources that are available at the county, state, and federal level to assist veterans and their families. The Legislature will recognize all Veterans and Active Military employees of Tioga County at the Legislative Meeting on November 9 at noon.
Tioga County is encouraging area residents to recognize the importance of honoring all those who made immeasurable sacrifices in preserving freedom by displaying a green light in a window of their residence and/or business. This can be an exterior light that neighbors and passersby see, or an interior light that sparks a conversation with friends. Tioga County’s iconic courthouse will be illuminated green to honor and support our Veterans who selflessly served our great Nation. Tioga County is asking everyone to join in this meaningful tribute. The release continued, “Green is the color of hope, renewal, and wellbeing. By this simple act of changing one light to green, we can spark meaningful conversations regarding the recognition of Veterans and help ‘green light’ them forward and let them know that they are seen, appreciated, and supported.”
Senior Citizens Foundation Awards Grants Tioga County Senior Citizens Foundation (TCSCF) announces its 2021 annual grant donation for projects to aid local senior citizens. Grants of $51,000 were recently awarded to non-profit organizations that serve older adults living in Tioga County, NY. The mission of TCSCF, since 1982, has been to help groups and organizations provide services that improve the lives of local seniors. With this year’s donation, the Foundation has awarded over 2.2 million dollars to local nonprofits. To favor increased investment in long-lasting projects this year, and because of limited investment account funding available, the grant committee was unable to fulfill many of the worthy requests. However, TCSCF President Ralph Kelsey and the volunteer directors are pleased to name the following recipients of the $51,000 in the 2021 competitive grant process: Four libraries in the county – large print books and books on CD/DVD Candor Emergency Squad – toward purchase of a Zoll Heart Monitor for emergency calls Candor Historical Society – toward an indoor, accessible restroom Catholic Charities Tioga Outreach – emergency assistance for the elderly Coburn Free Library – accessible entrance/bathroom project (project complete)
Project Neighbor of Newark Valley – personal care items and cleaning supplies for needy seniors Tioga County Health Department – to provide needy senior citizen pet owners with items not covered by other funding, to promote safety and cleanliness Tioga County Open Door Mission – emergency assistance for elderly Tioga County Rural Ministry – emergency assistance for elderly Town of Berkshire Recreation Department – toward development of northern loop of walking trail at Berkshire Creekside Park Town of Richford - toward purchase of an accessible picnic table for the park Village of Nichols – toward paving the unfinished, shady portion of walking trail in Kirby Park Senior Citizens Foundation seeks contributions, memorials, and bequests that will help ensure the investment account will be able to continue funding senior projects forever. Make your tax-exempt donation to ensure the Foundation continues its mission at: www.tcseniorfoundation.com. Nonprofit administrators are invited to complete a grant request application at the website or get an application from TCSCF, P.O. Box 117, Owego, NY 13827. Applications for next year must be received by June 1, 2022. Awards will be announced in September 2022.
NOVEMBER 2021
TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS
An open letter to the Apalachin Fire District Taxpayers. Dear Apalachin Taxpayers, There is a lot going on with your local fire district and I wanted to make sure we keep you all updated on where things are. At the October meeting, the Board of Fire Commissioners adopted the 2022 budget. Most common question answered first – yes, we are staying within the 2% tax cap limit for next year. With that said, budget pressures that the artificial constraint this law put in place is definitely stretching our financial flexibility. I personally believe it is likely we will to override this limit in future years to meet current service levels. For example, we replaced our 20year-old pumper this year at a cost of approximately $750,000. While specifications were improved to meet current regulatory and safety standards, it’s otherwise comparable in quality and size to the equipment it replaced. Yet the average inflation of fire apparatus has been over 7% per year over the past 20 years! At a household level, just imagine your mortgage price going up 7% annually while your income is capped at a 2% increase. While not a perfect analogy, you can feel where this will lead to friction on your budget. And this doesn’t factor in payroll, fire hoses, training, insurance, and other required investments. The resulting tax levy for 2022 totals $1,095,222, representing an increase of 2.22% (because of the complex formula NYS uses, this is still within the ‘2% tax cap’). The average taxpayer in Apalachin will see a tax increase of approximately $6.00 next year. The tax levy is only part of the budget however. In addition to the tax levy, the commissioners reviewed EMS coverage trends over the past two years and had two startling learnings. First, our call volume has increased almost 40% year over year. We are on track to respond to over 1,000 calls this year. It was not too long ago we were barely doing 500-600 calls annually. With the increase in call volume, we’ve also seen our volunteers stretched beyond capacity and our response rate was dropping significantly at night when we rely solely on volunteers. The Commissioners felt we really had no choice but to invest in expanded EMS coverage with paid medics at night. Accordingly, starting in
October, we’ve begun staffing our station with at least one paid medic 24x7. They will be supplemented during the day, 7:00 am – 3:00 pm M-F by a paid driver/EMT and by volunteers all other hours. As you can imagine, this is a very expensive investment, requiring an additional $100,000 annually to support. Fortunately for the remainder of 2021 and 2022 the investment will be covered by the profits the District created on our contract with NYS serving at the COVID testing site that ended in May of this year. However, this was one-time money that will be exhausted before the 2023 budget. The Commissioners will continue evaluating the effectiveness of this investment during the year and will be prepared to make any difficult decisions required in advance of the 2023 budget. Finally, I want to take a moment to recognize an incredibly important asset to our fire district and community whose work often goes unnoticed by most. Our long time Treasurer, Fred Meyn, has decided to retire at the end of October. Fred has served our district for over a decade with the knowledge, skill, and unwavering commitment to integrity and financial stewardship we only wish more of our public servants had. Fred developed not just some, but all of our financial tools and reporting that enable the elected commissioners to make the best decisions possible. Fred made our jobs easier because we knew he did the homework, asked the right questions, and did it right – every time. On behalf of the entire Board of Fire Commissioners and a community that likely doesn’t know how lucky they were to have him, thank you Fred for your many years of service to us all. You will be missed. With that, I wish you all a wonderful Thanksgiving with your friends and family. Be safe and if you have any questions or comments, I invite you to reach out at any time and look forward to hearing from you.
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Project Lifesaver
Vestal Lodge #2508 recently held a joint press conference with local law enforcement to educate the local community about what “Project Lifesaver” is all about and how those in need can go about obtaining one of these devices thru their local police department. Officers from Vestal police department; Broome County Sheriff; Endicott police department; Johnson City police department; Port Dickinson police department; Binghamton police department; Owego police department; and Tioga County Sheriff’s Department, as well as New York State Senator Fred Akshar, all came out in support.
During the press conference on behalf of the lodge, Esteemed Leading Knight Mindi Moniz presented a $4,677.54 check to Vestal Police Department. This was enough to purchase 10 Project Lifesaver devices, as well as to purchase window decals that alert first responders of present conditions an individual may have and assist better in response etiquette. The window stickers were given to each of the police departments present to hand out to those in need in their communities. Project Lifesaver is a location device for “at risk” individuals, such as autism and dementia, who have a tendency to wander.
“Drug Take Back” in Vestal
Sincerely, Brian Rieber Chairman, Board of Fire Commissioners Apalachin Fire District (607) 765-2974 chairman@apalachinfd.com
Senior Citizens Foundation Awards Grants Tioga County Senior Citizens Foundation (TCSCF) announces its 2021 annual grant donation for projects to aid local senior citizens. Grants of $51,000 were recently awarded to non-profit organizations that serve older adults living in Tioga County, NY. The mission of TCSCF, since 1982, has been to help groups and organizations provide services that improve the lives of local seniors. With this year’s donation, the Foundation has awarded over 2.2 million dollars to local non-profits. To favor increased investment in long-lasting projects this year, and because of limited investment account funding available, the grant committee was unable to fulfill many of the worthy requests. However, TCSCF President Ralph Kelsey and the volunteer directors are pleased to name the following recipients of the $51,000 in the 2021 competitive grant process: Four libraries in the county – large print books and books on CD/DVD Candor Emergency Squad – toward purchase of a Zoll Heart Monitor for emergency calls Candor Historical Society – toward an indoor, accessible restroom Catholic Charities Tioga Outreach – emergency assistance for the elderly Coburn Free Library – accessible entrance/bathroom project (project complete) Project Neighbor of Newark Valley –
personal care items and cleaning supplies for needy seniors Tioga County Health Department – to provide needy senior citizen pet owners with items not covered by other funding, to promote safety and cleanliness Tioga County Open Door Mission – emergency assistance for elderly Tioga County Rural Ministry – emergency assistance for elderly Town of Berkshire Recreation Department – toward development of northern loop of walking trail at Berkshire Creekside Park Town of Richford - toward purchase of an accessible picnic table for the park Village of Nichols – toward paving the unfinished, shady portion of walking trail in Kirby Park Senior Citizens Foundation seeks contributions, memorials, and bequests that will help ensure the investment account will be able to continue funding senior projects forever. Make your taxexempt donation to ensure the Foundation continues its mission at www.tcseniorfoundation.com. Nonprofit administrators are invited to complete a grant request application at the website or get an application from TCSCF, P.O. Box 117, Owego, NY 13827. Applications for next year must be received by June 1, 2022. Awards will be announced in September 2022.
Pictured (left to right) K-9 “Grizz”; Vestal Police Department Deputy Katirae Smith; Vestal Police Department Chief John Butler; Vestal Police Department Captain Stace Kintner; Elroy the Elk; New York State Senator (and Vestal Elks Lodge member) Fred Akshar. Vestal lodge #2508 partnered with Vestal police department to host a “Drug Take Back” event at their lodge. Several Vestal police department officers, including K-9 “Grizz” and his handler Deputy Katirae Smith were on hand thruout the day to meet the public and hand out drug awareness literature, coloring books, and stickers. Elroy the Elk was there to meet &
greet everyone, hand out coloring books and literature, and to remind everyone the importance of drug awareness. More than 100 community members came out in support of this event and brought over 40 pounds of unwanted medications...which was safely collected and disposed of by the Vestal police department.
Dougherty Receives Award as Long-Standing President of Candor’s Historical Society At the September meeting of the Candor Historical Society, Milton Dougherty received a special plaque commemorating his 22 years as President of the Candor Historical Society after stepping down to make way for a new president and Board of Directors. Dougherty remains a member in good standing of the society. Photo by Carol A. Henry