4077 West Rd., Cortland

Something big is happening in Cortland — and it’s sparkling.

Robinson Family Jewelers, a trusted family-owned staple in the community, is preparing for a major move this May to a brand-new, expanded location at 4077 West Rd. The new showroom will be three times larger than its current space, marking an exciting new era for the business and its customers.

And before the doors close on Groton Avenue, they’re doing something just as big — a Moving Sale with up to 70% off everything in the store.

“This is a fresh start for us,” says the Robinson family. “We’re making room for all the new inventory in the new location, and that means incredible savings right now for our customers.”

From engagement rings and wedding bands to fine jewelry and one-of-a-kind pieces, every item in the current showroom is included in the sale. It’s a rare chance for shoppers to find stunning, high-quality jewelry at deeply discounted prices.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there.

With the move comes a major expansion in what customers will find inside Robinson Family Jewelers. The new location will introduce an all new watch selection, including Glock and Seiko timepieces, along with a wide variety of unique gift items. Shoppers can expect to find everything from GoatGuns (detailed 1/3 scale model firearms) to clocks, candles, frames, and other fun, easy-to-gift pieces — making it a true destination for more than just jewelry.

The move isn’t just about more space — it’s about a better experience. The new West Road location will feature a significantly expanded bridal selection, more opportunities for custom design, and a more open, comfortable environment where customers can take their time and enjoy the process.

“We’ve always focused on helping people celebrate life’s biggest moments,” the family shares. “This new space allows us to do that on a whole new level.”

Even with the growth, Robinson Family Jewelers remains rooted in what matters most — family values, personal service, and a genuine connection to the Cortland community.

But for now, the focus is on the final weeks at 3 Groton Ave — and the once-in-a-move savings that come with it.

Inventory is moving quickly, and when it’s gone, it’s gone. Customers are encouraged to stop in soon, take advantage of the deep discounts, and be part of this exciting transition.

One chapter is closing. A bigger, brighter one is about to begin.

Robinson Family Jewelers invites the community to shop the Moving Sale now — and get ready to experience something entirely new this May.

Pendell Resharp was started over 2 years ago, as a new division of the Pendell Companies. We opened 40 years ago as a family operated construction business. Brothers Gerry and Joe continue the tradition today with offering blade sharpening for all bandsaw sawmill owners. We are also able to sharpen your  chainsaw chains. We have remodeled our former shop to meet the needs of our customers. In addition, we offer a pickup and delivery service to any local sawmill owners. We are located at 407 Smith Hill Road Lisle, NY and we welcome anyone who is interested in stopping in and seeing the shop and sharpening equipment. You can reach our office at 607-634-4163 or Gerry at 607-423-4906, Monday-Friday 7:30-4:00. You can email us at pendellcompanies@gmail.com or send us a message on Facebook at Pendell Resharp.

Getting ready for warmer weather and Spring projects? Tully Lakes Hardware has everything you need and the best brands from Ace!  From pressure washing the deck to planting a garden, or repainting the house- Nightingale’s can help you get started. New this year: Nightingale’s now carries gas and battery powered Stihl equipment! The new Sthil department is ready to help you tackle spring cleanup projects around the yard- along with other top brands like Milwaukee, Ego, Husqvarna, Dewalt and Craftsman. Also, you’ll find a brand new assortment of fishing gear. Nightingale’s now carries a full aisle of rod and reel combos, live bait, and hundreds of different lures and tackle for bass, trout, walleye and panfish.

Nightingale’s can help you with other spring projects! Ripped or damaged window screens? Drop them off for repair. Is your lawn a mess after this past winter? Rent a power broom to get rocks and gravel out of your lawn, and pick up lawn repair products and grass seed. Decided this is the year for a fresh coat of paint on the house? Stop in to pick out a color from the Benjamin Moore color collection. Ready to tackle your flower and vegetable gardens? Nightingale’s rents rototillers and is stocked with garden soils, seed starting supplies, seeds, fertilizers, and mulches. Ready to kick off BBQ season? Find a full selection of new Weber grills, Treager Smokers, and Blackstone flattops- or pick up a new BBQ seasoning or sauce, or some new grilling accessories. Whatever project you are tackling- the friendly and helpful staff at Nightingale’s can help you get started!

Located in the Village Plaza, next to the Tully Post Office. Nightingale’s is open seven days a week. Monday–Friday 8am–7pm, Saturday 8am–5pm, and Sunday 9am–4pm. 

By Shana Karn, Owner

We’ve heard it repeatedly: “Thrifting and Flea Marketing is the next big trend for Gen Z and younger!”  When it comes to small businesses tapping into what’s trending and how to tap into it, there is a learning curve. In the past, trends started in larger urban areas—not in Cortland/Dryden. Often, it would take years for a “trend” to finally make its way to Central New York. However, we’ve seen this fast forwarded thanks to social media—and most recently TikTok. Youth, teen and young adult trends that begin in the bigger cities now make it to little ol’ CNY much faster.  See?! TikTok isn’t always a “bad” thing…at least for small businesses.  A quick search for “thrifting” on Tik-Tok or Instagram brings up more results than imaginable. Thrifting to resell, thrifting finds, thrifting near me, thrifting home décor, thrifting clothes are just a few of the hundreds of results at your fingertips.  And the reels, videos, & posts—predominantly from tweens, teens and young adults—most calling themselves “Influencers.”

Very few people believe me when I tell them that “Influencers” became a thing in the early 2000’s—2004 to be more precise. But it’s true. Influencer marketing began with bloggers and “mommy bloggers” leveraging niche audiences for sponsorships— influencing didn’t begin with Instagram and TikTok. It simply began with the realization that the Internet connects us all. YouTube “Creators” appeared around 2009-10 and helped turn “hobbies” into “careers.” Between 2012-2015, with the rise of social media and the promotion of products on Facebook, Instagram, etc, the FTC (in 2015) started regulating these endorsements, marking the recognition of this work as a paid industry. By 2016-18, we saw an explosion of “Influencers” largely due to Instagram’s shift in algorithm, Stories, and influencer agents becoming common. By 2018, “Influencer” was recognized as a potentially lucrative and highly sought after career. Virtual influence skyrocketed during the Pandemic (2020-2021) and parents of the Gen Z population cringed and asked “How? Why?” when their kids announced it as an actual career goal. I want to note here that, currently, 1 in 4 Gen Zers say they plan to become social media influencers—and the industry is predicted to be worth billions.

The “how and why” are simple: Influencers can earn an income—a small percentage will earn millions; an Influencer is a non-traditional position and doesn’t require formal education or starting in an entry-level position. The growth of social media platforms allows for faster career growth and monetization (earning money). But here is what it all boils down to: At some point, consumers began trusting “relatable” social media figures more than traditional celebrity advertisements, making influencers invaluable to brands. For those of us Gen Xers (and older) who are in retail, we need to pay close attention to this because if we want to take advantage of this thrifting and flea trend happening with the next generation(s) we have to involve them in our marketing and promotion. 

While I’ve had a stagnant TikTok for The Second Knob for a few years, last week we introduced TSK.Warehouse to TikTok with a bright, young assistant creator and guess what? We saw results within days. It is a new era, and we are embracing it with a semi-Gen Z vibe that inspires (and influences) thrifters and antiquers of all ages—not just the younger one. The feedback on our new TikTok account has been amazing and we believe it will only get better from here on out. 

Haven’t checked out TSK Warehouse? Now is the time to do so! We are open Tues-Sat from 9am-6pm and Sun from 10am-4pm. Our outdoor flea markets begin on Saturday, May 16 and we still have a few vendor spaces available! Call today to reserve yours: (607) 344-3900.

Serving Cortland, Tompkins, Tioga & surrounding counties
Free Estimates Available

Are you planning a bathroom renovation, kitchen upgrade, or new tile installation but worried about finding a contractor who will do the job right the first time? Tile installation requires precision, preparation, and experience to ensure the finished result not only looks beautiful but also lasts for years to come.

Hampton Tile, based out of Newark Valley, NY, is a small, family-owned, business dedicated to helping homeowners transform their spaces through professional tile installation and remodeling services. With over 12 years of experience in the construction and tile industry, the company is committed to providing reliable service, quality craftsmanship, and careful attention to detail on every project.

As a family-run business, Hampton Tile takes pride in building strong relationships with homeowners and treating every project with the same level of care and respect they would give their own home. Their goal is to help homeowners create spaces that are both functional and visually appealing while ensuring the work is completed properly and built to last.

Tile work requires skill, patience, and the right preparation to ensure surfaces remain level, waterproof, and durable. Hampton Tile focuses on delivering high-quality results while maintaining a clean and organized work environment throughout the project.

Here is what one satisfied customer shared in a Google review about their experience:

“Hampton Tile worked on my bathroom reno and did a great job. Very knowledgeable, reliable, does great work! Love my bathroom now. Highly recommend.“ — Linda C.

Hampton Tile specializes in a variety of residential services including:

• Bathroom Tile Installation
• Custom Tile Showers
• Kitchen Backsplashes
• Tile Flooring Installation
• Bathroom Remodels
• Kitchen Remodels
• Home Renovations
• General Contractor

Whether a homeowner is updating a single room, installing new tile flooring, or planning a larger remodeling project, Hampton Tile works closely with clients to bring their ideas to life with professional craftsmanship and durable materials.

The company understands that home improvement projects are an investment, and they strive to ensure every project meets the highest standards of quality and customer satisfaction.

Homeowners throughout Cortland, Tompkins, Tioga, and surrounding counties continue to turn to Hampton Tile for dependable service and professional results.

For more information or to request a FREE ESTIMATE, call 518-992-0331, email info@hamptontile.com, visit hamptontile.com, or find Hampton Tile on Facebook at facebook.com/HamptonTile/.

Spring is finally here, the birds are chirping and the days are getting longer. 

Now you need a place to put all that “stuff” you’ve accumulated over the winter, and the garage just isn’t big enough. You need a shed or maybe, another garage from Thee Amish Structures. Order your storage structure now and beat the rush. We have a variety of stock sheds available for immediate delivery. 

Since we can never count on Mother Nature, please keep in mind that deliveries are dependent on weather and ground conditions.

All sheds and garages come complete with your choice of Duratemp, Board n Batten, Lap or Log siding. Your choice of paint or stain color, trim color, and roof color. We offer 30 yr Architectural shingles w/underlayment and aluminum drip edge or metal roofing w/double bubble vapor barrier and as always, our prices include delivery and set up on your prepared site within 30 miles from our sales lot. For those who live farther than 30 miles, do not worry, let us know when you come in and we will calculate the extra delivery fee.

When you purchase a structure from Thee Amish Structures you will not encounter any hidden charges or fees, there is a 3% credit card service charge, however.

Sheds come complete with (1) double barn door, (2) 24×36” windows w/screens, end vents, diamond plate threshold, delivery and set on your prepared site. For structures 10’ in width and wider we also include (1) ramp.

Single wide garage structures come complete with (1) 8×7 or 9×7 insulated Clopay overhead door, (1) side door, (2) 24×36” windows w/screens, end vents, diamond plate thresholds, (1) ramp, delivery and set on your prepared site.

Double wide (1) story structures come complete (1) 9 lite house door, (4) 24×36” windows w/screens, (2) 8×7 or 9×7 Clopay insulated overhead doors, end vents, diamond plate thresholds, (2) ramps, delivery and set on your prepared site.

Double wide (2) story structures come complete with everything as the single story but includes (4) extra 24×36” windows w/screens, for a total of (8) windows, stairway to the 2nd floor, metal roof w/double bubble vapor barrier, and anchors if placing the structure on a concrete pad. 

We offer bank financing LightStream for purchases of $5000.00 and up, including furnishings! Check our website theeamishstructures.com for more information and click the Financing link. We also offer Rent to Own through SmartPay Rentals. 

At Thee Amish Structures, whether you purchase a structure, or we just give you a quote, our pricing comes complete with the cost of the building, any extra options you are looking for and delivery. You won’t have to worry about any surprises.

Stop in and check us out!

We are located at 32 North St., in the Village of Dryden, next to Dunkin’ Donuts. Visit our website at theeamishstructures.com.

Tail wagging in dogs began as a means of communication with other dogs, which we know from studying wolves and other wild canines; yet, tail wagging is far less common in wolves than in domestic dogs, and dog puppies wag their tails at an earlier age than wolf pups do. Tail wagging appears to be a more specialized means of communication in man’s best friend.

Most experts agree that when dogs wag their tails, they are communicating different emotions better interpreted based on the carriage of their tail as well as the speed and even the rhythm of the wag—subtleties that might make the difference between, “Yippee! You’re back home!” and “I’m considering attacking you.” 

Indeed, dogs use their tails to communicate signals beyond happiness to people and other dogs. A stiff, upright tail can display dominance; a tail held horizontally may signal neutrality; a lowered tail often reflects timidity; hyperactive wagging imbues excitement; and a slow-wagging tail communicates ambivalence. Furthermore the pattern of tail wagging can relay specific things. For example, the “circle wag” (when a dog’s tail sweeps around like a helicopter blade) expresses elation. Research even suggests that dogs wag their tail with a “bias” to the left or right based on whether they are experiencing positive or negative emotions. 

One veterinary physiologist suggests that tail-wagging in dogs is similar to people gesturing with their hands while talking. Imagine that! 

Article & photo by Margie Manthey

As winter [hopefully] fades and the first pops of green return to our beautiful CNY and Southern Tier, something begins to shift—not just in nature, but in us.  Spring, with the first songs of Robins and other birds appearing, invites fresh starts, lighter spaces, and renewed inspiration. It isn’t a surprise that this season is one of the very best for antiquing and thrifting. With treasure filled vendor malls like TSK Warehouse, Early Owego Antique Center, Bostwick’s and Found in Ithaca, our community is rich with opportunities for treasure hunting!

Spring Cleaning Means Fresh Inventory! When people begin spring cleaning, closets are cleared, attics are sorted, and storage units are finally opened. That means antique shops, vendor malls and thrift stores see an influx of [new old] unique pieces! From vintage linens to farmhouse décor to mid-century treasures and long forgotten collectibles, spring often brings some of the most inventory of the year. For TSK Warehouse and our friends at other shops and malls, this season is full of discovery.  Vendors refresh their booths. Estate sales increase—and we see tons of new consignments in our online auctions. Hidden heirlooms find their way back into the light!

Decorating for a Lighter Season! Spring inspires a softer aesthetic. People look for pastel glassware, floral, china, garden décor, vintage baskets, lace tablecloths and weathered wood accents.  Antique and thrift stores are treasure troves for these seasonal touches. Unlike big-box stores, antiquing offers a one-of-kind charm. A chipped enamel pitcher becomes a vase. An old shutter becomes wall art. A vintage quilt becomes a statement piece. Thrifting allows creativity to bloom!

Sustainable and Meaningful Shopping Spring symbolizes renewal—and what better way to embrace renewal than by reusing and repurposing? Antiquing and thrifting are inherently sustainable. Each item purchased is something rescued, reused, and given new life. In a world of mass production, secondhand shopping feels intentional. It slows down. It connects us to stories. Every piece carries history, character, and soul.

The Joy of the Hunt! There is something magical about thrifting in the spring. Warmer weather makes browsing flea markets, outdoor vendor events, and antique malls feel like and adventure rather than a chore. Windows get opened. Doors are propped wide open and welcoming. Sunlight hits cut glass and old silver just right.  For creative souls—especially those with an eye for photography or design—spring antiquing is rich with texture, patina, and storytelling. The season sharpens our appreciation for detail.

Preparing for Gatherings and Gifting. Spring also ushers in weddings, graduations, Mother’s Day, and other gatherings. Antique teacups, vintage jewelry, heirloom-quality décor and thoughtful handmade gifts make meaningful presents. Thrifted finds can be styled into beautiful, personal gifts that feel far more intimate than something off a shelf. For multi-vendor shops and malls, this season often becomes a hub of inspiration—customers searching not just for things, but for stories and connections. 

Spring is all about possibility. Antiquing and thrifting mirror that spirit. The season reminds us that beauty doesn’t have to be brand new—it just has to be noticed.  And perhaps that’s the real magic of spring shopping: it isn’t just about what we find. It’s about what we rediscover.

Owned by Judy June and her son Adam, June’s Cafe and Pizzeria in Dryden celebrated their one year anniversary last month. 

Enjoy a taste of home at their family style restaurant! They specialize in NY-style thin crust pizza, Buffalo Style wings, calzones, Italian-inspired appetizers & sandwiches, and fresh salads. And added two pasta dishes to the menu! All soups and salads are made fresh daily, plus they also serve sandwiches. 

June’s Cafe has amazing pizza and a welcoming atmosphere. Located on 22 West Main Street, in Dryden, their phone number is (607) 708-4025. Follow them on their Facebook page for daily specials and a link to their website junescafeandpizzeria.com. They are open daily from 11 am through 8 pm, with the option for dine-in, delivery, or carryout. We deliver from 5 pm to 7:30 pm with 10 miles. June’s also offers weekly specials Monday-Friday!  

June’s Café and Pizzeria also offers catering. Call and ask for details for your next get-together! Come check out June’s Cafe and Pizzeria for an enjoyable experience.

Isabelle’s Encore is reopening March 19th, refreshed! Lots of new and seasonal items. Excited to have added a very limited selection of clothing with a dressing room too!. Thursdays-Saturdays 10am-3pm. Check FB “isabellesencore” for changes. Questions please call (607) 423-5623 or email isabellesencore@gmail.com.