December 2013 community press

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BROWN ENTERPRISE AND MARKETING 7830 STATE ROUTE 434 APALACHIN, NEW YORK 13732

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APALACHIN • OWEGO • NICHOLS TIOGA CENTER • NEWARK VALLEY

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YOUR HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER • Volume 28

STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #9 APALACHIN, NY

www.TiogaWeb.com

DECEMBER 2013

Number 12

The Newark Valley Holiday Magic Festival will be held on Saturday, December 14, from 3:00 to 8:00 pm. Above: Santa arrives at last year's festival.

Join the festivities as the Village of Owego comes to life during the "Lights on the River" Friday, December 6, when Santa Claus throws the switch at 6:00 pm to light up the village just like he did before (pictured at right). The event concludes with a fireworks display at 8pm in Draper Park.

O Tannenbaum Holiday Showcase

Owego's Holiday Showcase marked the start of the holiday season in Owego last month. Above: Al Fargnoli of Sweeney's Market in Apalachin gave wagon rides after dropping off Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Tioga County Council on the Arts on Front Street where they enjoyed visiting with the children (below).

"A Victorian Christmas" is the theme for this year's O Tannenbaum Holiday Showcase at the Tioga County Historical Society Museum at 110 Front St. in Owego. Beautifully decorated six-foot trees, three-foot trees, wreaths, and other items are on display as part of a silent auction.

Final Bid Night is December 14.

The museum is open Tues-Sat 10am-5pm, and Sunday 11am-3pm during the event. The Gold sponsor of the event is Tioga Downs Racetrack.

FRESH CUT TREES BIG DIPPER TREE STAND Open Daily 9-9 till Christmas HAND MADE WREATHS AVAILABLE FOR ORDERING Big Dipper Tree Stand, Rt 434, Apalachin, NY

DECEMBER 2013

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

PAGE 2

Ti-Ahwaga Community Players Present "A Christmas Story"

From left, Jamie Cornell as Ralph (the narrator), Camden Dyer-Decator as Ralphie, Doug Benish as the Old Man (with his beloved leg lamp), Devin Cornell as Randy, and Nichole Langton as Mother on the set of "A Christmas Story," which opens at the Ti-Ahwaga Performing Arts Center in Owego on Saturday, December 7.

The Ti-Ahwaga Community Players will present Philip Grecian's adaptation of Jean Shepherd's "A Christmas Story" on December 7, 8, and December 12, 13, 14, 15 at the Ti-Ahwaga Performing Arts Center, 42 Delphine Street in Owego.

"A Christmas Story" portrays the riotous trials and travails of young Ralphie Parker on his quest for the one thing he wants for Christmas: a Red Ryder BB gun. His requests for the gun are reproved with a "you'll shoot your eye out" by his parents and even his teacher so he's not real sure he's going to get it. On top of that, skirmishes with his brother and the school bully leave him wondering if he'll make it to Christmas.

"Something about this show draws me back year after year," director Kathy Harris said. "It's warm and familiar, yet every new batch of actors keeps it fresh and fun. For me, directing "A Christmas Story" is like spending time with old friends you only see once a year. It's like coming home for the holidays."

The cast includes Jamie Cornell

as Ralph (the narrator), Doug Benish as the Old Man, Nichole Langton as Mother, Camden Dyer-Decator as Ralphie, Devin Cornell as Randy, Brendan Cornell as Scut, Thad Robertson as Flick, Cameron Cole as Schwartz, Laura Robertson as Esther Jane, Julia Langton as Helen, and Jane Nichols as Miss Shields.

Shows start at 8pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and 2pm on Sunday. General admission is $20 for adults, $10 for children 12 and under. Friday admission for students with ID cards is $10. Sunday admission for seniors 60+ is $17. Fine wines, beers, soft drinks and snacks are available to enjoy at your table during the show.

The show is underwritten in part

by Cuttermen Marine Services, LLC. To reserve seats, call the Ti-Ahwaga Performing Arts Center at 687-2130.

For more info, go to www.tiahwaga.com

Tioga County's

COMMUNITY PRESS

Volume 28 Number 12 December 2013 © 2013 Published by Brown Enterprise And Marketing 7830 State Route 434 Apalachin, New York 13732 Phone (607) 625-2222 or (607) 72-PRESS E-mail: press@tiogaweb.com www.TiogaWeb.com Publisher/Editor ---------- Fred J. Brown Jr.

Published monthly RECEIVED BY MORE PEOPLE IN TIOGA COUNTY THAN ANY OTHER NEWSPAPER • The Community Press, nor its advertisers are not responsible for typographical errors in articles or ads.

• Submitted articles are not guaranteed placement but are printed on a space available basis.

THIS PAPER IS FREE. IT IS PAID FOR BY THE ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT THEM

TELL THEM YOU SAW IT IN THE

COMMUNITY PRESS www.CommunityPress.us

DECEMBER 2013

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

PAGE 3

Local Pantry Provides Thanksgiving Baskets

From our family to yours: Best wishes for the love and peace this season brings. Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah

“90 Years of Being like Family” 8 Delphine St., Owego, NY 687-1803 www.warmcomfort.com

Volunteers from the Park Terrace Food Pantry meet to put the Thanksgiving Baskets together.

The volunteers of the Park Terrace Food Pantry on Glann Road in Apalachin prepared 125 Thanksgiving Baskets last month, serving over 400 people, a 16% increase from last year.

Each year the number of requests for baskets has risen since the pantry opened in 2004. This year's baskets

were made possible by the food drive conducted by the Scouts and leaders of Troop 43, the residents of Tioga Terrace, and many other generous donors who help the pantry throughout the year.

A sincere "thank you" to all who support the Park Terrace Food Pantry.

Lawnmowers, Small Engines - Repaired Alternators, Starters, Generators, Motors - Rebuilt

TIME TO GET YOUR

SNOWBLOWER CHECKED OUT AND READY FOR WINTER

Santa Phone 625-HOHO Although he is very busy this time of year, the Apalachin Lions Club persuaded Santa Claus to take phone calls for three nights in early December.

Santa has been happy to do this for the children in our area for many

years and he is looking forward to talking to his many young friends so he will know what they want for Christmas.

To talk to Santa call 625-HOHO (625-4646) between 6pm and 8pm on December 2, 3, or 4.

Lions Club Toy Collection Your help is needed with the Apalachin Lions Club annual collection of NEW or LIKE NEW toys for distribution to needy families in the Apalachin (13732), Campville (east to county line) and Little Meadows, Pa (18830) area.

Collection barrels are in the lobby of the Apalachin Elementary School, Tioga Hill School, Apalachin

Pharmacy, Apalachin Library, and White Tails (in Little Meadows) until December 11 With the generous support of many individuals, and organizations the Lions have been helping needy families for over 50 years with food and gifts during the holidays. The Lions thank you for your support.

For more info, call 625-2365.

Tioga Museum Extends Hours As part of the O Tannenbaum Holiday Showcase Fundraiser, the Tioga County Historical Society is open for extended hours which will include: Tuesdays - Saturdays, 10am to 5pm, and Sundays 11am to 3pm.

These hours are in effect through December 14.

The O Tannenbaum Holiday Showcase runs through December

14. The theme is a “Victorian Christmas” with more than 150 trees, wreaths, and other items up for bid.

Antique toys are also on display.

For more information, call 6872460 or visit tiogahistory.org. The museum is at 110 Front St. in Owego, and will be closed December 23 through January 1.

Van Dervort Repair And Rebuild Service

185 Shady Hill Road, Apalachin 625-4658 PICKUP AND DELIVERY AVAILABLE

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OUR GARAGE

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Corner of Pa. Ave & Rt 434

Apalachin

625-5345

From the staff of “Hometown Auto” and “Our Garage”

38 Main St., Nichols, N.Y. 13812 • (607) 699-7478

STAY WARM THIS WINTER

Kerosene Heater Supplies and Repair

Heaters – Electric & Kerosene

Bagged Coal Weather Striping Window Repair Wood Pellets

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

IS Y0UR CAR READY FOR WINTER?

Mon–Fri 8am–5pm Sat 8-noon

Oil Changes • Tires •Batteries & All Repairs SALES open Mon – Fri 9-5; Sat 10-2 PLOW TRUCKS ~ SUV’s ~ PICKUPS ~ CARS VANS ~ DUMP TRUCKS

DECEMBER 2013

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

PAGE 4

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Rent $950 mo. 2 month security. Call 607-372-3644 12/13 GOOD CLEAN USED FURNITURE: Bought and Sold every Saturday from 10am to 3pm. 129 McMaster St. Owego 607-242-6560 01/14 TILE WORK: over 40 years experience, walls, floors, counter tops, water damaged walls tub areas, shower stalls repaired. Quality Tile Tony 607-744-7853 01/14 TOP DOLLAR PAID: Wanted! Old fishing tackle, lures, reels, etc. Some items worth $500. and more!!! Call me first, collector not a dealer so I pay more.

Walt 687-5750 06/14 NEED IT CLEANED OUT or hauled away? We just charge less for one room to whole house. Also garages barns & sheds. MK’s Affordable Cleanouts 607217-7455 01/14 BUYING: Buying Antiques & Vintage Collectables, paying highest prices and I come to you! Call Dave at 607-240-9546 07/14

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DENT REMOVAL: door dings, hail damage, dents removed without harm to car finish! Olympic Detailing 607-625-2332

DOG BOARDING: Pleasant Valley Dog Kennel, 5367 State Route 38, Newark Valley, NY 13811. 35 years in business, indoor/outdoor runs. Daily rates $14 one dog, $21 two dogs same run 607-6428776 12/13 FOR RENT: 1 Bedroom Apartment on the 2nd floor. Right in the heart of Historic Downtown Owego, NY Close to Laundry mat, shopping, sight seeing, walking, parks, restaurants and so much more approx. 850 sq ft No Smoking or Pets!!!

Rental agreement for 1 yr Application with references and credit check Call And leave message 607-427-1736 WE CAN HELP!: We can help with your cleanouts—hauling –local moves –house cleaning and lawn care. Free Estimates.

Call 607-699-0212 11/13 SLEIGH BED: Twin sleigh vintage bed with mattress, plow for wheelhorse, and a very nice futon. Each $100. Call 570623-2562.

11/13 SNOWBLOWERS: Now in stock. Ariens Snowblower pre-snow sale. Joe Signs Equipment, Rt. 17C, Owego.

12/13 WANTED: Your classified ad for our December 2013 issue. Please send in form below by November 25.

You can advertise your garage, yard or other sales, events, or items wanted or for sale here in the Community Press, the paper with the largest distribution (by US Mail) in the Owego market area. The same low rate for both commercial or personal family ads. Only $5 for the first 20 words. 1 WORD PER SPACE (add $1 for each 4 additional words)

ALLEN MEMORIAL HOME, INC. Funeral Service Established in 1884 $5 $6 $7 $8 $9 Send your classified ad to: COMMUNITY PRESS 7830 Route 434, Apalachin, NY 13732 Make check or money order payable to "BEAM" or drop off your ad at Beam Electronics in Apalachin. (phone 625-2222, fax 625-2111) NAME ________________________________ PHONE ________________ ADDRESS ____________________________________________________

511-513 East Main Street Endicott, New York 13760 (607) 754-0110 For Pre-Funding, No Payment, Traditional & Cremation Options Call or visit us at www.allenmemorial.com

CITY __________________________ STATE ________ ZIP ____________ The Community Press goes to press on the first Monday of the month.

Your classified ad should be received no later than the fourth Wed of the previous month.

If you, or a friend or family member, are not receiving the COMMUNITY PRESS in the mail now and would like to receive it every month you can subscribe now!

Yes I would like to receive the COMMUNITY PRESS NAME: __________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS: _______________________________________________________________ TOWN: ________________________________ STATE: _________ ZIP: _____________ PHONE: _______________________________ Enclose check or money order for $25 Payable to B.E.A.M. and mail to: COMMUNITY PRESS, 7830 State Route 434, Apalachin, N.Y. 13732

DECEMBER 2013

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

PAGE 5

High Adventure Trek of a Lifetime In your home pet sitting and training to meet your needs.

Fully Insured (607) 972-3531 www.DoggyDooRight.org

NORTHERN LIGHTS LAMP SHOP 105 S. Duane Ave. Endicott, NY 607-748-1447 877-506-7678

A crew of Boy Scouts from Troop 221 in Vestal is preparing for a backpacking trek at Philmont in July of 2014.

The group of eight scouts and three adults will hike through the wilderness at the High Adventure Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico practicing their hiking, orienteering, and wilderness survival skills. The group will spend the first couple of days in advance of the trek getting acclimated to the altitude.

Base Camp is at 7,000 feet above sea level, and the scouts will hike to elevations nearing 12,000 feet.

Vestal is a little over 1,000 feet above sea level.

Along the way the crew will visit program areas to try gold mining, roping, black powder riflery, skeet shooting and climbing. Throughout the trek they will be carrying their “homes” in their backpack.

Training and preparation for this adventure is a yearlong process for Chet, Preston, Jay, Joey, Andy, Josh, Hunter and Eric along with the adult leaders of Mr. Haefner, Mr. Isaacs, Mr. Lethin, Mr. Moore (all pictured above).

Hours: T-F 9-5; Thurs 9-7 Saturday 9-5 www.NorthernLightsLampShop.com

HAPPY HOLIDAYS BRING YOUR LAMP IN FOR A NEW FABRIC SHADE LARGEST SELECTION IN THE AREA

• New Tiffany Style Lamps • • Porcelain Garden Night Lights • • Floor Lamps • Table Lamps •

• LAMP REPAIRS •

Celebrate New Years Eve at the Terrace With a Special Steak Dinner

Serving Lunch & Dinner or Just a Snack!

Stop in and try our Homemade Soup Specials

Tuesday-Steak Nite • Wed - Shrimp Nite • Thurs - Clam Nite Tim & Tyson –Saturday Dec 21st (Every 3rd Saturday of the month)

Karaoke Saturday Jan 4th (First Saturday of the month)

Tioga Downs Helps with Turkey Drive The Food Bank of the Southern Tier announces that from now through December 31, Tioga Downs Casino Racing & Entertainment will sponsor the 4th Annual Turkey Drive to ensure that local families in need can enjoy a plentiful holiday meal.

Tioga Downs will maximize every donation to this year’s Annual Turkey Drive by doubling it. Not only has Tioga Downs provided a generous $10,000 donation to kickoff the annual campaign, but they will also match all donations up to $20,000. Funds raised help acquire turkeys for distribution through the Food Bank’s network of hungerrelief agencies including food pantries and soup kitchens across the Southern Tier.

“The holidays are a time of joy that typically involve sharing meals with our loved ones, but so many of our neighbors right here in the Southern Tier are struggling. Many families are faced with very limited food budgets and some are even going without,” said Food Bank President and CEO Natasha Thompson.

“Thanks to the generosity of Tioga Downs, community members can have a huge impact on the lives of families in need this holiday season.

The Friendly Neighborhood Tavern Rt. 434, Apalachin, New York 625-3935

Serving Tioga & Broome County For over 20 years!

Doubling the donations to this year’s campaign goes a long way in the fight against hunger.”

To support the Turkey Drive, go to www.foodbankst.org to make a secure online donation. All donations are segmented by county. 100% of donations raised in each county stay in that county. The Food Bank distributes food to people in need through a network of more than 160 member agencies including food pantries and soup kitchens Broome, Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben, Tioga and Tompkins counties.

For more information, visit the Food Bank’s website at www.foodbankst.org or call (607) 796-6061.

Jazz Service at Owego Church - Dec 29 On December 29, the First Presbyterian Union Church, North and Temple Streets in Owego, will offer a jazz service of worship on Sunday morning at 10:00 am, followed by a coffee and tea social in the Fellowship Hall. The public is invited to attend.

Featured artists will be two of the Southern Tier’s most popular jazz musicians, Larry Lolli, a string musi-

The Terrace

cian and retired music teacher at Johnson City High School, and Doug Beardsley, a major jazz influence with over five decades experience as a keyboard artist. Doug’s musical style has been inspired by Bill Evans, while Larry is a string generalist who is equally as comfortable performing with orchestras and jazz groups. The service will be led by the Rev. Bob White.

Apalachin, NY (607) 625-3131 or (607) 754-2541

We bring our samples to your home or business to see in your lighting conditions.

Free Consultation ~ Free Installation

• Draperies • Top Treatments • Vertical Blinds • Mini Blinds • Cellular Shades • Roller Shades • All Top Brands

DECEMBER 2013

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

PAGE 6

Tioga Central YES!LEADers Complete Training Chainsaws

Chaps

Protective Helmets

Wedges Hatchets Gloves

Ear Protection

Boots

Chains Bars Oil & more...

CHAINSAW

FULL LINE OF POWER EQUIPMENT

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HEADQUARTERS

(607) 689-0330

www.JoeSignsEquipment.com “QUALITY SALES & SERVICE SINCE 1947”

6845 Route 434 , Apalachin, New York Hours: Mon-Fri 9am to 7pm, Sat 9am to 1pm (CLOSED SUN) 625-2129

Forty-nine students from Tioga Central High School completed their training to become YES! LEADers. YES! LEADers are middle and high school students who teach elementary school students about skills they need to resist drugs and alcohol, the importance of positive self-esteem in making safe choices and effectively handling peer pressure.

The YES! Launch training program teaches YES! LEADers how to be role models for younger students through team activities and educational sessions Trained YES! LEADers are substance-

free role models for younger students, who use their leadershiop skills to develop resistance skills in elementary school children through interactive activities and age-appropriate entertainment.

Tioga Central's YES! LEADers are also committed to helping their community. Each year, they participate in a variety of outreach activities that help younger students. YES! Safe Choices for Kids, a partnership between Senator Libous and Lourdes Hospital, is now in its 25th year. For more information, go to www.YesSafeChoices.org.

Castellucci Annual Blood Drive - Dec 19 Town of Owego Supervisor Donald Castellucci Jr,'s 17th Annual Memorial Blood Drive will be held December 19, 1:30 to 6:30 pm at the Owego Elks Club. As in the past, a rigatoni and meatball dinner will be served to all donors. To make an appointment, call 1 -800-redcross or visit the website www.redcrossblood.org.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year (CLOSED CHRISTMAS & NEW YEARS DAY)

The blood drive is held in memory of Donald's parents, Donald and Grace Castellucci Sr. The family asks that a food item be brought to be donated to Tioga County Rural Ministry. Cash donations in the Donald and Grace Castellucci’s memory are also accepted and sent to the Rural Ministry as well.

Local Student Awarded Full Scholarship 24 Hour Emergency Prescription Service 7 Days a Week - 725-6359

New Homeowners Insurance

A local student has been awarded a full scholarship to a prestigious university. JordanAnn Wilson, who will graduate from Seton Catholic Central High School in Binghamton in 2014, has been selected to receive a full scholarship to play Lacrosse at Niagara University, a Division 1 school. Niagara University, a Catholic university in the Vincentian

Tradition, is located in Lewiston, N.Y. “Only one young woman and one young man were selected to receive scholarships from Seton,” said JordanAnn’s father Larry Wilson. “I am proud of my daughter’s hard work, dedication and success. She has shown how determination and effort lead to reward.”

Wine & Beer Tasting - January 17

We can insure your home for market value or an agreed amount.

Non smoker discounts.

WORK COMP • NY DBL • BUSINESS • FARM OWNERS • AUTO • TRUCKERS

John A. Sykas - Skyline Services 891 Pennsylvania, Little Meadows, Pa.

The Owego Apalachin (OA) Foundation for Excellence in Education’s annual Wine and Beer Tasting event will be held on January 17, 2014, 6:00 to 9:00 pm, at the Owego Treadway Inn. Tom Westcott & Ultra Vibe will provide entertainment and local restaurants will provide refreshments. Nearby wineries, breweries, and cheese houses will showcase their products with samples.

Local businesses and residents generously provide a wide variety of goods and services for the silent auction.

Tickets are available at Lawler’s Liquor Store, Scott Smith & Son, and The Kitchen Store. Pre-Sale ticket prices: couples $40, singles $25, designated driver $10. At-the-door ticket prices: couples $45, single: $35. www.OAFoundation.com.

Help Students Get Playground The students of Tioga Central Elementary School do not have a playground, and you can help them.

When you purchase any sweet treat from Berry Bear Frozen Yogurt on Rt. 17C in Owego from December 4 through December 8, and present the ticket below, 10% of your purchase will go directly to the Tioga Central

Elementary Playground Fund.

If you are a community member or local business interested in donating directly to the Tioga Elementary PTO playground fundraising drive, please send it to: “Tioga/Nichols PTO playground fund” Located at: Tioga Elementary School, (c/o PTO) PO Box 241 Tioga Center, NY 13845.

Wish you a Safe and Happy Holiday Season!

5780 Route 434, Apalachin, NY 13732 TOWING

(607) 625-5653

RENTALS

(607) 625-9904 COMMUNITY PRESS

DECEMBER 2013

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

PAGE 7

GOLDWELL OPI The commander's visit was a joint visitation with New York Auxiliary President Barbara Corker and New York Sons of the American Legion (SAL) Detachment Commander John Chang.

Chang noted that, like the department commander, his personal project this year is to collect donations for the National Emergency Fund, especially since the fund helped so many New York families in the devastating wake of Hurricane Sandy.

Corker said her project is to support the American Legion's Operation Comfort Warriors, and for two reasons. First, unlike other charities, 100 percent of donations go directly to helping wounded warriors. Second, it's important to "show our warriors our love."

Christmas Cantata - Dec 8 A Christmas Cantata celebrating the Messiah's Birth will be performed on Sunday, December 8, at 7:00 pm at the Newark Valley United Methodist Church, Route 38, Newark Valley The Christmas Cantata, A Great and Mighty Wonder, written by Tom Fettke, will be performed by a combined choir

of singers from the churches of the Newark Valley area. It will be directed by Jewel Griffith, with piano accompaniment by Brenda Yeier.

In case of inclement weather, the performance will be held on Monday, December 9, at 7:00 pm.

Ribbon Cutting at First American Realty

A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held on November 15 at First American Realty at 54 Central Avenue in Owego (across from Rite-Aid).

First American Realty, which is owned and operated by Roger Katchuk, is a full service licensed real estate brokerage with membership with the Greater Binghamton and Elmira/Corning Association of Realtors.

The home of First American Realty is a newly renovated, historical space that was recently a warehouse. It w originally being built in 1865 as a blacksmith’s shop and carriage house.

A complete build out has been done in an open concept/New York City industrial theme. Much of the original brick has been retained and the original window openings that were boarded shut have been opened up.

All new plumbing, heating and electric has been installed. High speed internet and the ability to stream real estate listings and information from computer to large flat screen complement the office. Conference and meeting areas have been created as well as a break area kitchen and modern rest rooms.

The building is in a flood zone and all the HVAC was raised to the ceiling and receptacles were built 4 feet off the floor. Carpenters elevated cabinets and vanities and because of the open concept they were able to reduce the amount of studded walls needed.

The space now allows for real estate seminars and lectures while at the same time having a unique space to help clients.

Celebrating 33 Years in Business –

Owners Kate & Betsy, along with staff: Bob, Jen, Julie, Jennifer, Nickie, & Lyda

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

OPI Spa Pedicures (European Touch Chair – newest technology) OPI Spa Manicures • Cuts Perms • Color • Highlights • Foils Facial Waxing • and more …

Now using Goldwell Color

GREAT Y HOLIDA GIFT IDEAS

Tender Loving Care by Maureen 7 Lake Street, Owego, N.Y. (607) 687-2009

FAIRYTALES

New York State American Legion Commander Kenneth Governor brought a message of "Service First" to the local Legion Family in his visit to Tioga County last month.

It's about reinvigorating the core mission to serve men and women in uniform, veterans and families, community and nation, he said during dinner at Owego American Legion Post 401.

A sign that the Department of New York is on the right track in putting "service first," Governor noted, is the Americanism trophy that New York walked away with at the Legion's national convention this past summer. "We were honored for having the best Children and Youth, and Family Assistance Programs in the entire American Legion."

Open: Monday – Saturday

BED HEAD

Kenneth Governor, Department of New York commander, speaking during one of his stops across New York State.

(Photo by Doug Malin)

56 North Avenue, Owego, N.Y. MATRIX

MOROCCALOIL

KMS

'Service First' to Area's Legion Family

DECEMBER 2013

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

PAGE 8

Big Dipper - A Christmas Tree Tradition

In honor of Veterans Day, members of the Owego Kiwanis last month created a Star of Flags at the Kiwanis Flag Pole Circle on Route 434 near the Hiawatha Bridge.

The Big Dipper Christmas Trees & Wreaths has been a staple of the Holiday Season in Apalachin for almost two decades.

Owner and Operator Paul Kapr is an avid tree lover and curator. He has worked for years in the landscaping and tree service business. Selling Christmas trees is just an extension of that excitement and he is giving back to the environment. For every Christmas tree he sells he plants one at his local tree farm. “It isn’t about the money” says Kapr, “It’s about planting trees, taking care of God’s creation, and giving a quality experience to our customers – a fresh local Christmas Tree!”.

At the Big Dipper Christmas Trees and Wreaths, customers get the whole Christmas experience…

Christmas music, free hot cocoa, candy canes, and fresh cut local trees. They even load it up and tie it down for you.

Their wreaths are also locally custom handmade, fresh from our trees. “Growing trees locally is at the heart of it all,” says Kapr.

The Big Dipper Christmas Trees & Wreaths is on Route 434 in Apalachin, just off Rt. 17 Exit 66.

Holiday Open House in Corning - Dec 7 A Holiday Open House will be held on Saturday, December 7, 10am to 3pm at the Patterson Inn Museum, 59 W. Pulteney Street in Corning. Admission is free.

Children’s activities include make and take crafts, visit with Santa, face painting, and storytelling. A soup and sandwich lunch is available. Features of this event are an Attic Treasures sale of holiday items; mixed dozen cookie sale; a gift boutique; raffles; three classical guitar performances by William Groome; blacksmith demonstrations; hearth cooking; mantles and windows decorated by the Corning Garden Club. www.pattersoninnmuseum.org

Route 17 exit 63

DECEMBER 2013

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

Students Fill Shoeboxes for Operation Christmas

Students at Mrs. Reeves' 2nd Grade class at St. Patrick's School in Owego recently participated in Operation Christmas Child. The students filled shoeboxes with simple gifts, and wrapped the shoeboxes and the lids. The filled shoeboxes will be sent to needy boys and girls in other countries by Samaritan’s Purse, a Christian relief and evangelism organization led by Franklin Graham.

For more information, go to www.samaritanspurse.org

PAGE 9

Johnson's Pools & Spas Wins Award

Johnson' Pools and Spas of Owego has been granted a Bronze Aard in the 2013 International Awards of Excellence sponsored by the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals.

The award was for a freeform pool project built locally in 2013 by

Johnson's Pools and Spas.

Features of the winning venture include natural waterfalls, a swim-up bar, a spill-over spa, an outdoor fireplace, and stamped concrete.

The award is especially significant as the gold and silver award winners were firms in affluent and opulent cities across the world, including Dubai, UAE; Saint-Laurent-du-var, France; and The Hamptons, New York.

Johnson's Pools and Spas is family owned and operated in Owego since 1977. They are located at 1088 Route 434. For more information, call them at 687-2872 or visit www.johnsonspools.com

Life Choices Center Receives Grant Life Choices Center of Broome County has received a $2000 grant from The George A. and Margaret Mee Charitable Foundation to purchase new parenting curriculum for their Smart Choices program which is available to new or expecting moms or dads in the community.

Life Choices Center is a nonprofit organization serving both Broome and Tioga Counties (with office locations in Binghamton in Owego)with free and confidential services for those facing an unplanned pregnancy or related situation. Formed in 1992, Life Choices Center continues to educate and equip local women and men with the knowledge and resources needed to properly care for their children.

The George A. and Margaret Mee Charitable Foundation grant will be used to purchase new parenting curriculum to update the current materials used during weekly Smart Choices classes and one-onone mentoring.

“Since implementing the updated curriculum into our program,” said Executive Director, Russ Smith, “inexperienced moms and dads say they feel very prepared to care for their children as they are engaged in the modern and relatable up-todate videos. We appreciate the Mee Foundation enabling us to revamp this valuable program and positively impact the lives of many children.”

Life Choices Center is accepting donations to further assist those facing an unplanned pregnancy. For more information on Life Choices Center or how you can support its community efforts, please call Laura at 607-205-8506 or visit their website: www.LifeChoicesCenter.org.

Route 17 exit 63

DECEMBER 2013

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

AUTO • BOAT • RV • DETAILING

PAGE 10

Vestal High School Students Selected for NYSSMA All-State Winter Festival

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Vestal Central School District’s Music Department is pleased to announce that two Vestal High School students have been selected by the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) for its All-State Conference scheduled for December 5 - 8 in Rochester.

Katie Glasgow, a junior, will be singing with the Women’s Chorus

during the annual Winter Festival.

Selected as an alternate for one of the band concerts is Paula Carris, a senior trumpet player.

Katie is in Vestal Voices, under the direction of Vestal High School Music Teacher Austin Kiley, and Paula is in the Golden Bears marching band, under the direction of Band Director Gregory Harris.

Lions Thank Community The Apalachin Lions Club would like to thank the community for the hundreds of winter coats donated for those in need during the First Annual Apalachin Lions Coat Drive.

A special thanks to Blessed Trinity at

St. Margaret Mary’s, the Apalachin Library, Johnson’s Pools & Spas in Owego, Physical Health and Performance in Sweeny’s Plaza for collecting the coats, and the Open Door Mission Outreach for distributing the coats.

Now Booking Patients for December at Our Owego Office

DECEMBER 2013

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

PAGE 11

CCE Tioga to Recognize "Friends of Extension" The Annual Dinner Meeting of Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) of Tioga County will be held on Monday, December 9, from 6:00 to 8:30 pm at the Owego Treadway on Rt 17C in Owego.

The evening will include a buffet dinner, a review of program highlights from the year, and election of new board members. In addition, the association will give out board and staff appreciation awards, as well as several “Friends of Extension Awards.” These awards will be given to community members who have demonstrated dedication and on-going commitment to support CCE Tioga and its mission to help improve the quality of life for citizens of Tioga County.

Friend of Extension Award Nominees are: 4-H Youth Development: Skip Jackson; Family Development: Shawn Yetter; Agriculture: Lisa Bloodnick; Community Nutrition and Wellness: Sister Mary O’Brien; Community Development and Public Issues: Barbara Riley; Campus Collaborator: Michael Duttweiler; Spirit of Extension: Tioga Opportunities, Inc.; Friend of Extension: Kathy Roush; and Board Recognition: Matthew Frisbie.

Invitations were sent to community leaders, participants, board members, partners, staff, and award recipients. If you would like to attend, call Tina Murphy at 687-4020. The fee for the dinner is $21 per person.

Employee of the 4th Quarter Congratulations to Christopher Kallin, Child Support Enforcement Supervisor, for being selected Tioga County Employee of the 4th Quarter.

Christopher Kallin began his employment with Tioga County in 1980 as a temporary Social Welfare Examiner, and was made permanent in 1981. Chris was promoted to a provisional Child Support Enforcement Supervisor in 1987. This position became permanent in 1989, and is the position Chris currently holds.

As the Supervisor in the Child Support Unit, Chris is responsible for training and mentoring new staff. Chris is the liaison for the Department of Taxation and Finance, one of child support’s administrative enforcement remedies, and he is the liaison for LabCorp, Child Support’s paternity DNA testing partner. In addition, Chris also accomplishes tasks of a support investigator. Chris is responsible for establishing paternity and support, and enforcing child support orders. Chris has an excellent relationship with custodial and non-custodial parents, as well as collaborative partners in the child

support process. He is very professional and an excellent representative of the department.

Chris and his wife, Kristen, reside in Owego with their 2 daughters, Kendra, 17, and Makenna, 14.

Chris will be honored as the Employee of the Quarter at the Legislative meeting to be held on December 10, at 6:00 pm in the Hubbard Auditorium. All are invited to attend and celebrate this occasion.

materials and food will be provided. Let CCE know if your child has dietary restrictions.

The gift fair will be held at 56 Main Street in Owego in the basement conference room. Cost of the day is $25 (lunch included) $20 each for siblings. Call Cornell Cooperative Extension, Tioga County at 687-4020 or e-mail mew58@cornell.edu to register.

CCE Tioga provides equal program and employment opportunities. Accommodations for persons with special needs can be requested.

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Nature's Gifts - Holiday Gift Making Fair for Kids Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) of Tioga County is hosting a gift making fair for children ages 6 to 12 on Saturday, December 7.

The children will make unique and high quality gifts like jewelry and magnets made from recycled materials, natural dye batik, leaf print ornaments and more. Drop your child off for the day at 10am and pick them up at 2pm.

Each child should come prepared with a list of 5 people they hope to make gifts for. Children will even have the opportunity to prepare a healthy lunch with the help of the nutrition staff. All

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DECEMBER 2013

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

PAGE 12

Breakfasts with Santa

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December 14 - Apalachin A breakfast of decorated pancakes with Santa will be held Saturday, December 14, 9am to 11am at the Apalachin United Methodist Church, 303 Pennsylvania Ave. (across from fire station). The children can sit on Santa's lap and let him know what they want for

Christmas. There is no charge for this event.

December 21 - Newark Valley Enjoy a Breakfast with Santa at the Newark Valley Fire Station, Route 38 in Newark Valley on Saturday, December 21, from 8:00 to 11:00 am. Free will offering.

Veterans News Remember/Honor a Veteran with a Christmas Wreath by Dec 14 You can help Wreaths Across America reach their goal of community members placing a Christmas wreath on veterans' graves in the Community Press' circulation area of Apalachin, Owego, Nichols, Tioga Center, Newark Valley, Lounsberry, Campville, LitttleMeadows, Friendsville and Warren Center.

Local organizers hope 2013 will be the year that a wreath is placed on every grave on or before National Wreaths Across America Day, Saturday, December 14. Here's how: Veterans do Veterans memorials in Owego, Nichols, Candor, Spencer Van Etten, Waverly and The Valley. Churches donate a wreath for placement at cemetery entrances. Pastors are encouraged to tell the wreaths story on Sunday, December 8. Their message: every time you help wreath laying for veterans, you are also honoring their families and preparing a new generation to appreciate America's freedoms.

Fallen Heroes grave wreath placement by Gold Star Mothers and Families or relatives. Veterans graves by their families. Some veterans may have no one because their family members may be deceased or live out of area. For them, volunteer to get a wreath, visit the cemetery you are most familiar with, find the grave of a veteran and place an evergreen.

Veterans' graves have an American flag, some have a flag holder, many have a veterans memorial plaque on the back of the headstone, or if the grave marker if flat on the ground, look for a war era inscription.

The mission of Wreaths Across America is to Remember the fallen, Honor those who served and Teach our children that our freedom isn't free.

The Tioga County Veterans Memorial and Tioga County Union Memorial in Court House Square will have wreaths placed by Gold Star Mothers and Families supported by veterans from American Legion Post 401 and their Ladies Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion, Chapter 480 Vietnam Veterans of America, Tioga County Marine Corps League, Glenn A. Warner Post 1371, Veterans of Foreign Wars and Ladies and Men's Auxiliaries, Veterans of Mod-

ern Warfare of Iraq and Afghanistan and Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War. American Legion Posts in Nichols, Candor, Spencer Van Etten, and Waverly and VFW Posts in Waverly and Sayre and Waverly Friends of the Cemetery will coordinate wreath laying and remembrance ceremonies.

Thousands of wreaths will be laid at Arlington National Cemetery at 11am Dec. 14, and 900 participating locations in every state, Puerto Rico and 24 cemeteries overseas where Tioga County Fallen Heroes have been buried since World War II. Why wreaths during the holidays?

Gold Star Mothers and Family or the families of veterans who have passed just want to know all those sacrifices and lost holidays were not in vain. Tioga County has 172 fallen heroes from all wars. There are an estimated 5,000 deceased veterans in Tioga County.

Three videos on www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/evednts/ blog explain Wreaths Across America.

Hear why it matters from the founder, an American Gold Star Mother who lost her son, and from the personal stories of those who serve and sacrifice.

Local contact is Glenn A. Warner Post 1371 Veterans of Foreign Wars Memorial Chairman Jim Raftis, 6874229, or jraftis2@stny.rr.com. All of you in the community are our partners.

To complete the mission help is needed from many individuals, families, veterans, churches, and all organizations.

Participants are asked to report what you are doing for a summary story.

Remember Pearl Harbor Dec 7 Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day is Saturday, December 7. Five from Tioga County were there that Sunday morning in 1941. Owego's first casualty of WWII was Seaman Delmar D. Sibley still aboard the sunken USS Arizona. Four others survived. One is living - Bill Kennedy of Owego - and three are deceased Army Combat Infantryman Richard Hopkins of Berkshire, Army Cook Don Stocks and Marine Buster Dunham, both of Owego.

The American flags at the Tioga County Veterans Memorial are flown at half staff to honor those who died in the attack on Pearl Harbor.

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Wishing You a Merry Christmas and Safe Travel Jim & Linda Barno

DECEMBER 2013

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

PAGE 13

Youth Group “Attacks” Cemeteries

by Norma Paisley

Corner of Main St & Pa Ave., Apalachin, NY 625-2212 Sat-Wed 7am-3pm • Thurs 7am-4pm, Friday 7am-8pm Breakfast & Lunch • With Daily Specials •Take-Out Available

Bring in a New Hat or Gloves Get a FREE Beverage with a Meal! ~ Holiday Platters Available ~ ~ Order Your Boar’s Head Holiday Ham by Dec 9th ~ Featured Artist for December—Jean Krawczyk Looking for Local Artists for our Monthly “Art Display” - stop in for details

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LITTLE MEADOWS, PA. 570-623-3508 Most folks wouldn’t get a great feeling if they saw a bunch of teenagers in a cemetery in late October. If those teens had a variety of implements with them, it would seem certain that they were up to no good, but that wasn’t the case when the Warren Center Baptist Church Youth Group descended on four local cemeteries on October 26.

It was a crisp Saturday morning and a heavy layer of frost still remained at 8:00 am as the teens got started. They came prepared with weed-whackers, lops, hedge trimmers and other tools designed to clean up some abandoned and overgrown cemeteries.

While the majority of the group was busy clearing brush and trimming trees at a family cemetery, known as the Brainard Cemetery, which had been neglected so long that headstones were not even visible, a few hung back near the Warren Center Baptist Church and paid tribute to our veterans. McKenna Wheaton, her grandfather Fred Wheaton and Jason Vandervort set about drilling holes into the bases of the headstones of veterans to ensure a firm receptacle for the poles of the new flags that they placed on each grave.

McKenna explained that the flags are commonly stuck into the ground and often tip over becoming victims of the lawn mower or blowing away. The group felt this service was important because it makes the cemetery look nice and it’s an honorable thing to do for our veterans.

Within only three hours the teens had conquered four cemeteries including two on Casterline Road just outside of Warren Center. In spite of the chilling weather and the early morning task the group was happy to perform. Renee Herb, lead-

er of the youth group says the group was instructed to come up with a community service and cleaning up the local cemeteries was one of the suggestions. Says Herb, “We chose this service because they (the cemeteries) are a neglected area that needed to be addressed.” Address it they did. The Brainard cemetery was hardly recognizable as the same place.

Krista Jones admitted that she was not part of the youth group but wanted to help anyway because “the people buried in the cemetery might not have family to come and care for it.” The other group members agreed this service was important for those who served and to make the community look like someone cares.

The Warren Center Baptist Church Youth Group is made up of twenty teens aged 13-17. The group strives to be a good example for other teens and to provide community services when and where they can.

For more information about the youth group or Warren Center Baptist Church, call (570) 395-3422 or send an email to jenningslarry79@yahoo.com

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DECEMBER 2013

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

PAGE 14

Tioga County Recognizes Foster & Adoptive Home

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The Hennings at Logan and Mason’s adoption in September 2013.

From left to right: Millie, Logan, Joseph, Mykal, Hon. Gerald A.Keene, Mason, Zachery, Maylee, and Maurice.

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owner - Mike Roberts

Tioga County would like to recognize one of our own foster and adoptive families, who have opened their hearts and their home to many children over the years.

Millie and Maurice Henning have been foster parents for Tioga County since 2001. During their 12 years as foster parents, they have fostered 46 children and adopted six of them. They have fostered children of all ages, from newborns to teenagers. Maurice has lived in Tioga County since 1961, and Millie moved to the area in 1998. They made the decision to become foster and adoptive parents after Millie’s daughter, who was eight at the time, asked if they could do so. Millie was in foster care herself from age one to age eighteen, and feels that this experience gave her insight into both the struggles the Hennings would face as foster parents and the struggles that children in foster care face. She was especially interested in providing care for sibling groups due to her own separation from her siblings. Millie did not know she had siblings until placed in her third foster home, where two of her siblings were also placed. Millie later found out that she has 12 brothers and sisters.

Millie and Maurice treat all the children who come into their home as though they were their own. The family eats all their meals together and spends time together, including going on vacations as a family. Children who live in the home have big birthday celebrations, and get to sit at the head of the table and

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be treated like kings and queens. Millie remembers her own experience of being told she wasn’t good enough because she was a foster child, and the family tries hard to prevent the children in their home from being labeled this way by others.

They do not use the words “foster child” in the home, and welcome the children as members of the family. Millie and Maurice agree that this mindset makes saying goodbye harder when it is time for the children to leave, but that it is worth it. They believe that saying goodbye to the children is the hardest part of the job, but are happy to have been able to maintain contact with many of the children they’ve fostered over the years.

When asked what advice they would give to people considering becoming foster parents, Millie says that kids are placed in a foster home for a reason and that she sees foster parenting as an opportunity to show them that life can be different. Millie says that prospective foster parents “better have a strong heart, because it will get broken” [when the children leave]. Maurice says that “the Lord blesses us with the love of children, but we still have to pray for patience”. Both Millie and Maurice describe foster parenting as being trying at times, but worth it. Millie says “the more kids, the merrier”, and finds the house to be too quiet without children around.

Maurice feels that fostering “makes a house a home” and that it has made his life more complete.

Do you have room in your heart and in your home? Join the team that care about kids, the Tioga County Foster Parenting Program - because temporary care makes a permanent difference. Help provide Tioga County homes for Tioga County kids. Tioga County is in need of caring foster and adoptive families like the Hennings, who are able to provide a nurturing home for children, including sibling groups, teenagers, and children with special needs.

For more information about becoming a certified foster and/or adoptive parent, contact Janice O’Connell at the Tioga County Department of Social Services at (607) 687-8346 or janice.oconnell@dfa.state.ny.us or go to http://www.tiogacountyny.com/ departments/foster-care-adoption-homefinding-unit.html

DECEMBER 2013

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

PAGE 15

Traditions At The Glen Casino

On November 14, 2013, Bill Walsh (above) announced that the Walsh Family, owners of Traditions at the Glen in Endwell, NY, will be applying for a Casino and Gaming License from the State of New York. Traditions now joins Vista Hospitality Group in Binghamton and Tioga Downs Casino in Nichols for a chance to win big! Only one license will be issued by the state.

Some time next year the state will spin the wheel, where will it stop?

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New Broil King gas grills in stock fully assembled Gas grill parts for all makes of grills in stock!

Father Bill Moorby (4th from left) joins the Kindergarten and First Grade students and teachers of St. Patrick's School in Owego for a Thanksgiving Feast. The feast was held during the children's lunch hour on Friday, November 22.

Christmas Romance Novel Now Available Book Signing - Dec 6 A new contemporary Christmas romance novel, Nothing Short of A Miracle, by local author and Historian for the Town/Village of Candor Carol Henry, is available in digital or print format.

Henry will hold a book signing on Friday, Dec. 6, 4-6:30 pm at the Candor Masonic Lodge on Rt. 96B in Candor.

Henry’s other new release, Ribbons of Steel, a family saga based on the Great Rail Road Strike of 1877, depicts Candor in the late 1800s.

Henry's other books will also be available. To reserve books in advance, call (607) 659-7661 or email carolhenry@frontiernet.net.

www.carolhenry.org.

DECEMBER 2013

TIOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY PRESS

PAGE 16

Groundbreaking at Tioga Downs 19 LAKE STREET, OWEGO

Specializing in fun and games for the entire family Holiday hours: Mon-Fri 10-6; Thurs till 7; Sat 10-4; Sun 11-4

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Shop where Santa shops!

November 18, 2013 - Groundbreaking ceremony at Tioga Downs for a new, 275-space parking garage.

Tioga Downs Casino and owner Jeffrey Gural wishes to thank the voters of the Southern Tier for their overwhelming support toward the passage of Proposition #1 in last month's election, allowing for 4 full-scale casinos in Upstate New York.

Tioga Downs will be applying for a license in the Southern Tier region.

Tioga Downs plans to build a new 136 room hotel, events center and expand the gaming floor that will include table games and a poker room.

According to Jeff Gural, Chairman and CEO of American Racing and Entertainment, the expanded facility will provide over 600 construction jobs and 200 permanent jobs running the Casino and hotel complex.

“We are very, very pleased with the passing of Prop 1. The results were overwhelming, especially from our surrounding counties that understand

that legalizing full gaming will create jobs in the Southern Tier and have a positive impact on the economy. Tioga Downs Casino has been a good neighbor and will continue to give back to the Southern Tier,” said Gural. Additionally, the taxes paid by the new casino will greatly benefit education across the entire state.

On November 18, 2013, Tioga Downs Casino held a special day of activities and offers to celebrate the passage of Proposition #1, which included the groundbreaking for the new 275-space parking garage and a special $5 buffet for the public all day in the County Fair Buffet.

Tioga Downs Casino is located along the north side of NY Route 17/ I86, two miles west of exit 62 in Nichols, NY.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Sweeneys Plaza, Rt 434, Apalachin

Wishing all our customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year.

Holiday hours: Christmas Eve. 10-6 Christmas Day. Closed New Years Eve. 10-9 & New Years Day. 11-4

Friday Wine Tastings

Thirsty Owl Dec 20 4-7pm Homer Dec 27 4-7pm

1429 Main Street, Apalachin, N. Y.

Call Earl for an appointment 625-3015

Gift Certificates Available Case Discounts on non-sale wines