BINGHAMTON, NY – Today, Senator Webb delivered $72,000 to Spiedie Fest and Balloon Rally Expo Inc. to provide for operational support throughout the festival. The funds were distributed through two operational grants, both of which flowed through the New York State Urban Development Corporation (UDC). 

David Pessagno, Co-Founder and Event Coordinator at Spiedie Fest, “We are so thankful that Senator Webb recognizes how people of all ages can come out and enjoy an event that has something for everyone and to deliver us $72,000 to allow this event can grow and put on an event the community can be proud of.” 

Said Senator Lea Webb, “I look forward to attending Spiedie Fest every year. This is one of the largest events in the Southern Tier, bringing thousands of people to our area. There are so many people who work tirelessly behind the scenes to bring us the Spiedie Fest and Balloon Rally we have come to know and love, and I am proud to be able to deliver this funding and provide operational support to the festival.” 

In 1983, Paul Van Savage and Rob Salamida started a Spiedie Cooking Contest when Otsiningo Park first opened. Two years later, David Pessagno, Ron Rogers, and Joe Slavik held the first Spiedie Fest Balloon Rally. Over the past 42 years, it has grown into a full three-day event that attracts over 100,000 people from across the country. 

Photos from the event are available here. Video of the event is available here. 

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