Arctic League announces closure of Big Book; meeting the target for 22 years in a row

ELMIRA, NY (WETM) – The closing bell rang, and the final word was signed in the 'Big Book' at the Arctic League on Friday, capping off another successful year of bringing joy to thousands in Chemung County.

Elmira Police Department officers were in full uniform on Friday, December 20, to make a final donation to the Arctic League on behalf of the Police Benevolent Association.

PBA members came together to donate and present the Arctic League with a donation of $2,500, helping the Arctic League surpass its goal of $175,000. The donation from the EPD PBA is equal to the largest donation ever received from the PBA and it is a tradition for the PBA to be the last signature in the book every year.

The Panther Claus program provides gifts to 114 students in the Campbell-Savona School District

The Christman Campaign for 2024 reached a total of $189,767.64 or 108.43% of the set goal. The Arctic League added that any additional donations will be used for the 2025 Christmas campaign.

Arctic League officials said volunteers are needed on Christmas Eve, December 24, to help deliver packages to families around the region. Starting at 9 a.m., traffic can begin on College Avenue and 2nd Street northbound.

Vehicles will follow at the Arctic League where packages will be loaded into volunteer vehicles, police and Arctic League staff will be available to help with directions. Officials said donations to areas outside of Chemung County will be delivered by volunteer fire departments. Those who volunteer are welcome to a hot breakfast at the American Legion on Lake Street in Elmira after the delivery is made.

Anyone still in need of holiday gifts in 2024 can contact the Arctic League and apply by Monday, Dec. 23 at 10 am.

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