Let's be honest. New York State treats the Southern Tier like redheaded step children.

Look how they dissed us with the casino announcement. Look how they ignore our serious need for jobs and resources here. They are happy to take our tax money, but when it comes to giving us something in return for it, we get the shaft.

So, when James Finch, Conklin Supervisor, made his joke to the Wall Street Journal about seceding from NY and becoming part of Pennsylvania, it didn't come across as a joke.

There are a few groups who have taken it seriously and are looking into the process of seceding. I can't blame them. The taxes are less in Pennsylvania, fracking is allowed, and businesses aren't afraid to open their doors.

But, the process of seceding does have costs. For example, what about BU and SUNY Broome? They are state schools. They would either have to get a special waiver to remain with New York's system, become private, or be absorbed into the PA university system.

That is just the tip of the iceberg. It's something to think about.

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