The Arctic League, which brings Christmas smiles to dozens of needy children and families in Chemung County each year, is closing in on this year’s goal of $175,000 after a major contribution from Tioga Downs Casino and Resort.
On Friday, Jim Weed, director of marketing at Tioga Downs, presented an $8,000 check to Bob Kramarik, chairman of the Arctic League.
The contribution increases this year’s total donations to $168,000, bringing the group within striking distance of its goal.
Last year marked the 21st year in a row that the Arctic League achieved its goal and was able to close its “Big Book” before Christmas. The Arctic League far exceeded its 2023 goal, also $175,000, and completed its Christmas appeal slightly earlier than normal, with a total of more than $213,000.
The annual telecast, the league’s largest fundraiser, raised about $27,000 earlier this month.
Jim Weed, director of marketing at Tioga Downs Casino Resort, presents an $8,000 donation to Arctic League Chairman Bob Kramarik on December 13, 2024.
How do you support the Arctic League?
Donation locations are located throughout the Elmira area and there are signs indicating where these locations are located:
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Large flat shoes: Miniers, Canal St.
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Elmira North side: Community Bank NA, 300 W. Water St.; Haskins Gardens, 955 College Ave.
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Elmira South Side: Chemung Canal Trust Co., 951 Pennsylvania Ave.; Maple Avenue Christmas Tree Farm, 1520 Maple Ave.; Solutions Credit Union, 907 Broadway.
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Elmira Westside: West End Beverages and Groceries, 1806 W. Water St.
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Elmira Heights: Chemung Canal Trust Co., McCann’s Boulevard and College Avenue; Banfield Baker Corp., Miracle Mile; Annie’s Hallmark Card & Gift Shop, 2058 College Ave.
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Horse heads: Chemung Canal Trust Co., 602 S. Main St.; Horse Head Prints, 2077 Grand Central Ave.; Pudgie’s Pizza, 134 W. Franklin St.
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Pine Town: Hamilton Meats, 1451 Pennsylvania Ave.
People can also mail donations to: Arctic League, PO Box 113, Elmira, NY 14902. Donations can be made online at arcticleague.com/donate.
What’s planned for Christmas Eve deliveries this year
According to Mike “Robby” Robertson, Arctic League board member, those wishing to help deliver packages on Christmas Eve should arrive at the Arctic League headquarters, 249 W. Clinton St. in Elmira, at 9 a.m. .
The volunteers must follow the pick-up route organized by Elmira police officers and Arctic League board members. Drivers do not need to leave their vehicles as packages are loaded for delivery.
The American Legion post on Lake Street will provide a hot, light breakfast after volunteers complete their deliveries.
All areas outside the City of Elmira will be served by volunteer fire departments.
This article originally appeared in the Elmira Star-Gazette: Arctic League appeal closer to $175,000 goal after Tioga Downs donation
