Tag: Blog

We’re thrilled to share a brand-new and easier way for residents to get in touch with their local government. Clerk Julia Wallace is now carrying a dedicated Village Clerk Cell Phone, and you can call or text her directly at 607-261-0705 whenever you need assistance. With open office hours being rather limited, we know it hasn’t always been easy to reach us at times. This new service is designed to make communication quicker, more convenient, and more responsive so you never feel like you are waiting for answers!

You can text this line at any time of day, and Julia will respond as soon as she is available! She monitors the phone daily, regardless of open hours, and wants residents to feel completely comfortable reaching out whenever something comes up. The only time you may notice a slight delay are if she is out of town or you message in the evening hours. If you’ve never texted the line before, just ensure that you include your first and last name so we know who we are talking to!

So what can you text the clerk phone for? Here’s just a few ways to take advantage:

• Questions or concerns about general Village operations
• Questions or concerns about tax payments and billing
• Code inquiries or assistance securing permits
• Filing complaints
• Maintenance and plowing requests or concerns
• Requesting house call services.
• Requesting meetings with Clerk or with other Village officials.
• Requesting reminders about upcoming meetings/community events.
• And whatever else you think we may be able to help you with!

If you’re unsure whether something can be resolved via text, go ahead and send the number a message anyways! We’ll be here to point you in the right direction.

We want every resident of Freeville to feel that their local government is accessible and that their voices are heard! Your questions and concerns matter and we want you to know that support is only a text message away! Save the number today: 607-261-0705. We can’t wait to hear from you!

The Dryden Center for Community (DCC) has officially taken a major step forward in its mission to create a vibrant, inclusive gathering space for all. Stephanie Ortolano–Executive Director of the DCC and a dedicated member of our Board of Trustees–and her team have officially closed on the organization’s new home: the former Dryden Methodist Church. You can read more about the closing by checking out this story posted in Tompkins Weekly: https://www.tompkinsweekly.com/news/dryden-center-for-community-representatives-complete-purchase-of-church-building-34bbf27b

Stephanie and her team envision the DCC as a welcoming hub where creativity, collaboration, and community spirit flow freely. The newly acquired space will open the door to a wide range of opportunities and spaces, including:

• Music and art workshops
• Rental spaces for events, meetings, and community dinners
• Game nights, dances, and social gatherings
• Rehearsal spaces for bands and musicians
• and countless other activities shaped by community interest!

The goal is simple but powerful: to create a place where people of all ages and backgrounds feel at home, inspired, and connected.

Want to follow the transformation of the space and be the first to know about upcoming programs and events? Visit drydencenter.org to sign up for the newsletter, donate to support the project, or get in touch with the DCC team. You can also stay connected by following the Dryden Center for Community on Facebook.

The DCC team and the Village of Freeville are thrilled to see this dream become a reality. The engagement and support of the community has been essential every step of the way, so we thank our residents for all they’ve done to support this mission. The future of the DCC is bright, and this new space is just getting started! We all are ready and eager to see what comes next for the DCC.

If you’re looking for a fun way to shake off the winter chill, gather your sharpest friends and head over to the Dryden Vets Club on Route 13 for an evening of friendly competition and community spirit. The Dryden Little League is hosting a Trivia Night Fundraiser on Monday, February 9, from 6:30 to 8:30 PM, and everyone is invited to join the excitement.

This isn’t just any trivia night—it’s a chance to show off your knowledge, support local youth sports, and maybe even walk away with some cash. Teams can sign up right at the door, and it’s only $5 per person to play. Whether you’re a seasoned trivia buff or just in it for the laughs, you’ll fit right in.

Here’s the twist that makes the night even more thrilling: Half of all registration fees go directly to the winning team. That means your brainpower could literally pay off. The other half supports Dryden Little League, helping provide equipment, field maintenance, and opportunities for young athletes in our community.

So don’t spend another cold Monday night cooped up at home. Come out, bring your A-game, and enjoy a lively evening with neighbors and friends. You’ll be supporting local ball players and giving yourself a shot at victory—all while having a great time.

For more information, refer to the flyer below or reach out to ball@drydenlittleleague.com.

New York State has been under a state of emergency since Friday due to the extreme cold and the significant winter storm expected to impact our area today. With the heaviest snowfall anticipated over the course of today, we want to check in, offer guidance, and ensure everyone feels supported and prepared.

Please take every precaution as conditions worsen throughout the day. A few important reminders and tips:

• Stay indoors whenever possible. Freezing temperatures and strong winds can create dangerous conditions in minutes.
• Avoid unnecessary travel. Roads may become hazardous quickly and visibility can drop without warning. If you must travel, ensure you pack food, water, and blankets.
• Prepare for potential power disruptions. Keep phones charged, gather flashlights, and have blankets accessible.

Please note that office hours for tomorrow will depend on weather and road conditions. Our priority is the safety of both residents and staff.

Storms like this can be stressful, but our community has always shown resilience and care for one another. Thank you for your patience, your cooperation, and your commitment to staying safe.

Wishing each of you warmth, comfort, and peace as we get through this winter weather together. Stay safe, stay indoors, and take good care of yourselves.

The Freeville Elementary School PTA is excited to invite our community to a delicious night out for a great cause. Join us at Brewer’s Taproom and Kitchen on Friday, January 23rd from 4:00–8:00 PM for an evening that brings together good food, good company, and meaningful support for our school. Brewer’s Taproom and Kitchen is located at 1384 Dryden Road Ithaca, NY 14850.

Brewer’s will generously donate a portion of all sales—including both dine‑in and take‑out orders—to benefit Freeville Elementary School and the PTA. Every meal enjoyed helps fund programs, activities, and resources that directly support our students and teachers.

Whether you’re planning a family dinner, grabbing takeout on your way home, or meeting up with friends, your participation makes a real difference.

If you’d like more information, feel free to reach out at freevillepta@gmail.com or visit the Freeville Elementary PTA Facebook page for updates.

Can’t make it to Brewer’s but still want to support the PTA? No problem—just use the QR code on the flyer below to explore additional ways to contribute. Every bit of support helps strengthen our school community.

We hope to see you there for a night of great food and even greater impact.

The Freeville Community Council extends a warm invitation to Village residents, first responders, and public servants to a story-filled community potluck dinner. If you’re involved with the Village, you’re invited! Post office workers, fire fighters, volunteers, please come on out!

The event will take place on Saturday, January 31st from 5:45PM until 7:30PM in the Social Hall of the Freeville Methodist Church. Please bring a dish to share and your own utensils, bowls, and plates if possible. The FCC will provide both hot and cold beverages. Dinner will be served at 6:00PM.

Starting at 7:00PM, attendees are invited to participate in the sharing of “Freeville Stories.” Anyone who is interested will be granted five minutes to share a memory or story about life in Freeville. Think of stories large and small, from just last week or from several years ago! Freeville residents always make a friendly and supportive audience. Don’t want to share? No worries! Get comfortable with a warm beverage and enjoy the tales of Freeville’s past.

If you are interested in sharing a story, please email clerk@freevilleny.org so the clerk can coordinate with FCC president Ryan Maher.

We hope to see you there!

A new year brings fresh energy, new friends, and the perfect chance to nurture your well-being. This January, Yoga for Life with Michelle welcomes you into a slow-flow practice designed to warm the body, calm the mind, and help you step into the new year, or perhaps into a new year’s resolution, feeling grounded and renewed.

Whether you’re brand new to yoga or returning to your mat after some time away, these sessions are designed to welcome you exactly as you are. No experience needed — just bring an open heart, an open mind, and a willingness to move with intention.

Dates:

• Saturday, January 17
• Saturday, January 24
• Saturday, January 31

Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Location: Freeville United Methodist Church

Cost:

• $10 per class
• or $25 for all three sessions

Please plan to arrive a few minutes early to sign in and settle into your space.

No fancy gear required — just comfortable clothing and a willingness to explore movement with curiosity. Whether you join for one class or all three, you’ll be welcomed with warmth.

Start your year with intention, connection, and a little more ease!

As we welcome a fresh year full of possibility, the Village extends heartfelt thanks for your continued support, trust, and partnership. Our community thrives because of the care, involvement, and neighborly spirit each of you bring to it!

As always, your voice matters. Residents are encouraged to share questions, ideas, and concerns during privilege of the floor portions of monthly Board of Trustees meeting which occur the first Tuesday of every month at 7:00PM in Village Hall. We ask that you notify the clerk at clerk@freevilleny.org if you plan to attend for privilege of the floor so we know to expect you, but this is not mandatory. Your participation guides the decisions that shape our village’s future.

With winter continuing to give us it’s worst, we also want to remind everyone to take advantage of our house call service. If you or someone you know could benefit from such a visit, please don’t hesitate to reach out! We’re here to help ensure everyone stays safe and supported.

If you’re looking for more ways to get involved with your local government or want more information about Village proceedings, please feel free to ask questions and continue to monitor the Village website and blog.

Thank you again for being such an engaged and caring community. Wishing you a healthy, joyful, and hopeful New Year!

If you’ve been meaning to add a little more movement, calm, or balance into your week, here’s a reminder that Freeville has a weekly yoga class open to all residents.Yoga for Life meets at the Freeville Methodist Church and offers a welcoming, judgement-free space to stretch, breathe, and move at your own pace. This class has been a part of our community for several years, and it continues to be a steady, accessible option for anyone looking to support their physical and mental well-being close to home.

Yoga for Life focuses on mindful movement designed to improve mobility, strength, and balance. The class is suitable for all experience levels and participants are encouraged to listen to their bodies and move in ways that feel right for them. Yoga can help reduce stress, improve posture and circulation, improve physical and mental health, while also giving residents a chance to slow down in the middle of a busy week to reconnect with yourself and community.

Feel free to visit Yoga for Life with Michelle on Facebook for more information. Class schedules are posted there and classes are offered once a week at the Methodist Church. Punch cards are offered to purchase multiple classes, but come try out your first class for free ($10 fee for FUMC may apply)! No pre-registration is required, just arrive a few minutes early!

Michelle hopes to see some more faces of Freeville at Yoga for Life classes in the coming weeks!

Our Village thrives when neighbors step up to get involved! Local government should never feel distant and I can assure you that the processes for getting involved is far from complicated! Right now, there are several ways you can take part, whether you’re looking for a larger commitment to the Village or a monthly volunteering opportunity.

Serving as Mayor or on the Board of Trustees is a meaningful way to help guide our community. You’d have direct say in the passage of Village laws, how we budget, and what projects are approved. The process for running is simple: just stop by the Village Hall to pick up and independent nomination petition and the brief guide that contains deadlines, how to’s, and other useful information for completing the document. You’ll need signatures from 5% of the Village population– that’s only 17 signatures! Once you collect them and submit the petition ahead of the deadline, your name will be on the ballot.

If you don’t want to run for a position, prefer a smaller commitment, but still want to get involved, consider serving on the Planning Board or Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA). These boards play an important role in shaping how our Village grows residentially and commercially. No petition is required–just an interest in serving and learning!

Getting involved does make a difference! Your input helps shape projects and decisions that affect daily life in Freeville. You can build connections by working alongside neighbors who share your level of care and commitment to our community. You may also find a sense of personal growth as you will gain valuable experience in leadership and civic engagement.

If you’re interested, please feel free to reach out to me via email or phone or stop down at the Village Hall during our open hours. Whether you run for office or join a board, your involvement will help keep our Village strong, welcoming, and moving forward.