State VFW official congratulates local post

State VFW official
congratulates local post
by Sandy Wyman
At the Silas Wainwright Post 6338 Veterans of Foreign Wars in Gouverneur on Saturday, March 11, amid all the observances observed was the 71st anniversary of the post.
Post Commander Dominick Simione read with reverence the post history bringing everything that the organization stands for into the evening of celebration.
Guest speaker for the auspice occasion was New York State Junior Vice Commander of the VFW Eugene Ratigliano.
“A year ago, you celebrated your 70th anniversary. It was a major milestone in the history of this post. And here you are, continuing to carry on that tradition.
“I am honored to be here to represent the Dept. of New York and our commander Dennis Sullivan, who is absent due to another commitment.
“Our success as a national organization begins right here in this post, the foundation on which the VFW is built.
“Your celebration this evening is just as it continues the commitment to America’s veterans. You continue to forge ahead and continue to fight for veterans’ rights.
“In order to stand steady, we need a strong membership. We are nearly three-quarters through the VFW year and membership is the focus of our effort as we draw down to the national convention in June.
“As an organization, the VFW relies on a large membership base to give it strength, power and influence to represents the interests of its members.
“Each member we keep and recruit allows us to fulfill our commitment to supporting our veterans.
“That is why it is so important to keep those members we have recruited as well as getting back into the fold those who have not renewed their memberships.
“We know how hard it is to recruit that member in the first place, let’s not leave them stranded by having them going out the back door.
“Continue to encourage members who have not paid their dues to do so, so that we can remain strong and viable, I am sure all of you would like to see our state commander, Dennis Sullivan, make that goal of 100 percent in membership.
“We can improve membership by keeping faith in our VFW programs, the Voice of Democracy, Patriot’s Pen, National Military Service, Teacher of the Year, Scouting and of course, Americanism.
“Much of what you do sometimes is never reported in the community, we need to do a better job of that.
The National Commander of the VFW has said many times that we need to press the brand, that is, advertise the VFW and make it more viable in the community.
“By celebrating your anniversary each year like you have been doing, keeps alive the hopes and dreams of those veterans that founded this post in 1946.
“It is important to take pride in your past achievements and I wish you great success on continuing to build on those principles and serve your community.
“I am most happy to be here on behalf of our state commander and to benefit by the kind hospitality shown.
“At this time, I would like to have Post Commander Dominick Simione and Post Auxiliary President Melissa Simione come to the podium for a presentation.”
The post was then presented with an embossed citation that states:
“Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States awards this citation to Silas Wainwright Post 6338. Congratulations and best wishes to the Officers and Members of VFW Post 6338 On the occasion of the celebration of its 71st anniversary. We share the pride that all of you have in the many accomplishments of the post during the past 71 years of service.
“Our organization was founded in 1899 when 13 Spanish-American War veterans gathered in the rear of a tailor shop in Columbus, Ohio and little did they dream that what they started in their dedication to assist those who fought for our country would turn into the over two-million-membership that it is today.
“Just as our founding fathers recognized the need for an organization that would work for the good of former servicemen, it is reassuring to note that today’s veterans are becoming increasingly aware of the needs for the continued growth of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, an organization that has earned the right to be called the Veterans’ Advocate.
“As VFW Post 6338 marks its 71st year in extending the VFW hand of comradeship and assistance to those in need, may the post continue to grow and expand as we all join together in preserving a proud, free and secure America.”
Speaking on behalf of the New York State Auxiliary President Karen Dotson was Jean Ratigliano who had the following accolade:
“I bring greetings from our president who was unable to attend, nevertheless she wishes to extend to the comrades and members of the Silas Wainwright Post 6338 a happy anniversary and the best of wishes for the year to come.
“This year TEAM NY has attained outstanding milestones and would like to express her gratitude for your continued support of our mission to veterans and their families.
“Thank you for your service and dedication.”
Handshakes, applause and photos were plenty for all involved.
The VFW’s across this nation are a mainstay in the landscape of America that stay the course of veteran causes and this post located in Gouverneur is a great example.

“Our Future is Bright” drive at Gouverneur Hospital in full swing

by Sandy Wyman
The Our Future is Bright Campaign at Gouverneur Hospital is on track for fund-raising for the new emergency room now under construction at the health care facility.
Over this past weekend hospital officials held open house meet and greets for the public to gather information on the project underway.
With proper signage in place, demolition is ongoing without any disruption to services for patients and families dealing with health related emergency care.
The new emergency room will be triple in size, according to the detailed architect plans that were on display along with a three-dimensional rendering on the final outcome after renovations are complete.
Gouverneur Lions Club Treasurer John Johnson and a contingent of members were on hand as he presented a check in the amount of $1,000 to Gouverneur Hospital CEO David Bender towards the campaign as the first installment of a three-year commitment towards a total of $2,000.
According to hospital officials before press time, they were most appreciative of the donation and the public participation shown for the project.
The construction is to be completed in a ten-month time span and has an associated cost of $2.3 million.

Former Fowler judge pleads guilty

Former Fowler judge pleads guilty

Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman and St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office and New York State Police on March 3 announced the guilty pleas of Paul M. Lamson, the former Judge for the Town of Fowler Justice Court in St. Lawrence County, for abusing his position as a judge by giving beneficial rulings to defendants that appeared before him in exchange for sexual favors.
Lamson last Friday entered guilty pleas before the Honorable Derek P. Champagne in St. Lawrence County Court, to the charges of bribe receiving in the third degree in violation of Penal Law § 200.10, a class “D” felony and official misconduct in violation of Penal Law § 195.00(1), a class “A” misdemeanor. As part of a plea agreement, the defendant is expected to be sentenced to two to six years in state prison.
“Judges who exploit their positions in exchange for sexual favors show blatant disregard for their victims, the trust of the general public, and the judicial system as a whole,” said Attorney General Schneiderman. “We will continue working with our partners in law enforcement to root out public corruption and hold those individuals responsible accountable.”
A joint investigation by the Attorney General’s Office, the St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office and the New York State Police revealed that Lamson had solicited defendants who had criminal cases pending before him in Fowler Town Court, to perform sexual favors and that in exchange for those sexual favors, Lamson agreed to use his authority as a judge to assist those defendants in their criminal cases. The investigation further revealed that Lamson did, in fact, issue favorable rulings for the benefit of those defendants.
“The St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office received information that initiated multiple operations with the assistance of the NYS Violent Crime Investigative Unit and the investigators of the NYS Attorney General’s Office over several months,” said St. Lawrence County Sheriff Kevin Wells. “Those operations yielded a successful arrest and conviction in a timely manner of Paul Lamson. The St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office will continue to work with their law enforcement partners to combat this and other crimes in St. Lawrence County.”
New York State Police Superintendent George P. Beach II said: “It is deplorable for any entrusted public official to use their authority and public office to take advantage of others especially in this manner. Judge Lamson was appointed by the people in his community to uphold the law and used the very bench that he presided over to break the law himself and to victimize and manipulate the individuals he was sworn to protect through a fair judicial process. When a public official shows such a blatant disregard for the law it is particularly disturbing. No one is above the law and such abuse of power, especially when it involves abhorrent acts like this, will not be tolerated.”
Lamson was the Town Justice for the Town of Fowler Justice Court from 2006 to December 1, 2016, when he resigned.
 On March 3, in St. Lawrence County Court, Lamson admitted to soliciting and accepting sexual favors from individuals who had pending criminal cases before him in the Town of Fowler Justice Court, upon an agreement or understanding that his judgment, action, decision and exercise of discretion as the Justice for the Town of Fowler Court, would be influenced with respect to those defendants’ cases.
The defendant further admitted that he did, in fact, provide favorable rulings on these defendants’ behalf.
For example, Lamson admitted that in exchange for sexual favors, he kept a defendant at liberty as opposed to sentencing that defendant to a period of incarceration. Lamson is expected to be sentenced to two to six years in state prison at the time of his sentencing on June 1, 2017.
On February, 24, the Attorney General announced the guilty plea of Delmar House, the former village justice for the Village of West Carthage Court in Jefferson County, for abusing his position as a judge by reducing a fine for a defendant who appeared before him in exchange for sexual favors, and by paying a portion of that defendant’s fines in exchange for additional sexual favors.
House pleaded guilty to bribe receiving in the third degree, and receiving a reward for official misconduct in the second degree, and is expected to be sentenced to up to six months’ incarceration and five years of probation.
Assistant Attorney General Mary Gorman is prosecuting this case and was assisted by Senior Analyst Joseph Conniff under the supervision of Public Integrity Bureau Chief Daniel G. Cort and Deputy Bureau Chief Stacy Aronowitz. The investigation was handled by Investigator David Buske of the Investigations Bureau, with support from Supervising Investigator Richard Doyle, Deputy Bureau Chief Antoine Karam, and Bureau Chief Dominick Zarrella.
The Attorney General acknowledgesthe St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office, the New York State Police and the New York State Office of Court Administration for their valuable assistance in this investigation. The joint investigation was conducted with Detective Sean O’Brien of the St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office and Senior Investigator John Donahue of the New York State Police.

Trinity Ave. not suited to CDL road skills testing, says NYS DMV

by Rachel Hunter
Gouverneur residents seeking a Commercial Driver’s License might soon have to travel to Massena to get it done.
According to Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles told the St. Lawrence County Clerk that they don’t like the “ambience” of Trinity Ave. in Gouverneur.
 Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall shared this information at the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees meeting on Feb. 21, and invited Town of Gouverneur Deputy Supervisor Eldon Conklin to speak on the matter as well.
The Town of Gouverneur and the Village of Gouverneur has been in conversation with NYS DMV officials in Albany about how to keep the testing in Gouverneur. They looked at six or seven different locations in Gouverneur, but Deputy Supervisor Conklin said they liked the back parking lot behind the Gouverneur Fire Department the best.
Gouverneur Fire Chief Tom Conklin said, “Our membership said it was fine, to keep it here in Gouverneur to try and benefit the community. Then we went the Town to let them know that we approved them to use our back parking lot. The only concerns we had was, in the winter time, plowing… We can’t guarantee it is going to be done. But if the Town wanted to plow it out, they are welcome to use it.”
Mayor McDougall said, “They agreed to that.”
Chief Conklin continued, “There was no issue on our behalf. We just wanted to make sure the entrance to our driveway, that they didn’t have to drive around our fire station because if we had members responding to calls, they would be in the way. They would just have to do a better entrance off the Kennedy Road to make the parking lot, so they weren’t going in the front of our station.”
Trustee Shelly Washburn-Simons asked, “So what is the reason they want to do this? I guess I am confused.”
Mayor McDougall responded, “Well, there are several reasons… ”
Deputy Mayor Charles Newvine said, “I think they are having a problem doing it from the Trinity location as to what they have to do to pass that CDL test. It is hard for them to start at Trinity and perform what they have to do.”
Deputy Supervisor Conklin then said, “What they need is a four-lane highway! They like the four-lane highway so trucks can change lanes.”
“We can’t help them out there,” Trustee Washburn-Simons said.
“It won’t fit,” Deputy Mayor Newvine said.
“Not right now,” Mayor McDougall said. “Maybe in 20 or 30 years.”
Deputy Supervisor Conklin then told of the hassle it will be if the road skills testing gets moved to Massena.
“People will have to borrow a truck or a bus to take a road test. Plus they will have to drive it to Massena and back,” he said.
Deputy Mayor Newvine then said, “Plus, you have to have to have a driver to go with you so…”
Discussion continued, but no further action was taken on this matter.
“We are working on it,” Mayor McDougall said in conclusion.
The next meeting of the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees will be held on March 21 at 7 p.m. in the municipal courtroom.

Raising a champion of champions: Franklin Academy athlete gives gold medal from sectional win to Gouverneur coaches in memory of Brennan Stevens

by Rachel Hunter
After winning the Section 10 title in the triple jump, Franklin Academy (Malone) Track Athlete William Bilow with blue ribbon and gold medal in hand walked over to Track and Field Coordinator John Tebo – and asked if he could give them to the Gouverneur Central School coaches in honor of Brennan Stevens.
Brennan Stevens, the son of Gordon and Karen Stevens of Gouverneur, passed away in an automobile accident in the fall. In addition to being well-known force on the football team, he won the Section 10 title in the triple jump last spring.
Mrs. Stevens said Brennan and William were always pushing each other to their personal best in track, setting goals, and enjoyed watching each other achieve.
At the start of the track season, William Bilow spoke to his mother and told her that, if he won the triple jump title, he would give his medal to the Gouverneur coaches to honor Brennan Stevens so she was not surprised when Mr. Tebo asked her about it.
The next morning William Bilow wrote Gordon and Karen Stevens on Facebook, and tears poured as they read the following:
“Last night I won the triple jump at sectionals. I gave my medal to the indoor track chairman in hope it finds you. Brennan would have won it, so it’s only right that you guys have it. You have a great family, and are always kind whenever I see you, and I can’t thank you enough. It means a lot. Love and prayer, William.”
Mr. Stevens responded as follows: “What an unbelievable act of sportsmanship this young man has shown.
“To the people of Malone and the North Country, you have a champion of champions. It takes a community to help raise a family but it takes a special kind of family to raise an individual such as this.
“The kindness, thoughtfulness, selflessness, and respect of this young man we cannot say we have ever seen before… Whenever we saw him at competitions, he was always kind and courteous to all around.
“To the Bilow family, you should be very proud of yourselves for raising such an amazing wonderful young man.”
Gordon and Karen Stevens along with the entire Gouverneur community wish William Bilow success at the New York NYSPHSAA Indoor Track and Field State Championships on March 4 at The Ocean Breeze Track and Field Center on Staten Island.
Karen Stevens told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that she and her husband plan to attend the state championships, believing that they would be going anyway if Brennan were still alive.
Gordon and Karen Stevens said they plan to send William Bilow to track camp at St. Lawrence University this summer. Ever since accident last fall, the couple has wanted to send two student athletes to the camp in Brennan’s memory – and they are honored to be able to send a student who is so deserving.

Town of Gouverneur officials trying to reduce chargebacks

by Rachel Hunter
Since St. Lawrence County does not have a community college, hometowns pay “chargebacks” that cover part of a student’s tuition at a New York State community college.
In order to do so, students are required to obtain a certificate of residency from county officials. The regulation is outlined in Section 6305 of a state education law that dates back to 1955. The county pays the fee directly to the colleges and then charges each town and the city of Ogdensburg for their respective students.
Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Robert Ritchie on Feb. 14 at its monthly board meeting reported that this year’s chargeback totals were $82,599.21 – and that the Town of Gouverneur was working to reduce that list.
Supervisor Ritchie said one thing they can do is ensure that a Gouverneur student actually lives within the town lines.
“Unfortunately, there are a few people in the Town of Fowler who have a Gouverneur address,” he said. “They are put on our list because it goes by mailing address. We have to go through this list and kind of look at the names. If we are not sure of the address on here, we have to literally go out and check the roads to see if it is within the township or if it is just over the line.
“Now Mike (McQuade) has gone through the list and made about eight or nine changes of people on the list who shouldn’t be there. We found one person who was charging us for semesters in 2016 that moved out of town in 2015. It is a situation!”
Deputy Supervisor Eldon Conklin added, “Mike (McQuade) has done a heck of a job of tracing it, and making the county aware and making them look things over…”
Supervisor Ritchie then told the following: “I remember when Don Peck was supervisor about 10 years ago, that the whole board went over to the tax people over at the county. We had a list, and I think we saved between $10,000 and $12,000. It’s just that they go by the address that the kid gives them.”
Supervisor Ritchie said they also have found that Gouverneur students sometimes go to a community college for the fall semester, and do not return in the spring. The certificate of residency is good for the entire school year, and thus there is no way to tell when a student drops out or transfers to a four-year college.
“It’s a hard thing,” Supervisor Ritchie said. “We do it by asking about names. Do you know this one? Do you know that one? They don’t really argue with us when we tell them that these aren’t ours that they got to look elsewhere to charge somebody the money but it is just kind of a nuisance to have to do it.
“We have talked about how a student can register in the fall and it carries over into the spring. They ought to have to re-register in the spring… so you would have a fall list and a spring list. It shouldn’t be an automatic thing.”
Supervisor Ritchie then asked the town board to look the list over, and to give the office or Mike McQuade a call if they find errors.
“We do the best we can, but it is sort of an expensive thing when it comes down to chargebacks,” Supervisor Ritchie said. “And now the governor wants to give everyone a free ride!”
The next meeting of the Town of Gouverneur board is to be held on March 14 at 7 p.m. at the town hall.

Town of Edwards releases info to help TDS Telecom bring better Internet service to area

Town of Edwards releases info to help TDS Telecom bring better Internet service to area
by Rachel Hunter
The Town of Edwards has released information on its underground utilities to aid TDS Telecom bring better high-speed, broadband Internet service to area residents.
TDS Telecom (TDS®) will soon expand broadband to nearly 9,000 locations in New York, thanks to funding from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
The FCC allocated an average of $3.1 million a year for the next 10 years to reach residents in some of the hardest to serve areas in New York. The funding will also be used to maintain a voice and broadband network as well as building out to these locations.
New York residents can now visit the TDS website to find out how this federal program may impact their location. As TDS finalizes the engineering and buildout plans, more details, including project start dates, will be added to the website.
Depending on location, most TDS customers in eligible rural areas will receive guaranteed broadband speeds of 25Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload (25/3). Under the agreement with the FCC, the remaining customers will receive broadband service at lower speeds of 10/1 and 4/1Mbps.
“We are proud to be part of this massive modernization project with the FCC,” said Scott Brooks, manager – state government affairs at TDS. “We are eager to begin work to build faster connections to nearly 9,000 locations in New York.”
Last month it was announced that TDS elected to receive approximately $75.1 million a year to increase broadband access in 25 states from the FCC’s Alternative Connect America Cost Model, under the Connect America Fund (CAF) program. TDS will leverage the funds over the next 10 years to support the buildout of rural broadband networks to nearly 160,000 locations across the country.
TDS has been doing business in New York since 1973 and owns six telephone companies in the state. TDS employs 32 people in New York.
For nearly a decade, TDS has worked with FCC Commissioners, their staff and federal trade associations to create a plan to allow for the expansion of rural networks served by rate-of-return companies, including TDS. CAF ensures more residents of rural America will have access to improved broadband service and reliable speeds.
Town of Edwards Highway Superintendent Duane Sykes said the following in regards to the project at the Feb. 8 town board meeting:
“They are going to use existing utility poles, but if they need to set some, they need to know where the underground utilities are,” he said. “It’s pretty cut and dried. The Development Authority of the North Country has all the information on a disc and just emailed it to them. So that is going to be happening. I am guessing this summer there will be high-speed internet everywhere. It’ll be fiber optics.”
The next meeting of the Town of Edwards board is to be held on March 8 at 7 p.m. at the Edwards Town Hall.

14th annual St. James Gala produced Old West Outlaws and Angels

by Jessyca Cardinell
Gents and gals dressed in their best old western attire as St. James School presented its 14th annual Gala, “Outlaws and Angels: The Legendary Old West”. All with the purpose of having a wonderful evening out while raising money for the small Catholic school with a big heart.
“Thank you to everyone for coming out tonight to support our little school and its mission,” said Principal Clara Cummings as the night of eventful fun was in full swing.
St. James School's dimly lit gymnasium was set up to make one feel as though they had truly taken a step back in time. Tables were set with wooden slab centerpieces, accented with a cowboy boot adorned with a beautiful bouquet, antique oil lamps, glass bottles and candlelight. Many volunteers and St. James parents helped in setting up as did Elite Events by Lenny, whom donates the linens used and assisted the decorating crew with their expertise.
The bar was set up in a true saloon style with bartenders Pam Doty and Rachel Wainwright working hard to get everyone's drinks. The dessert bar was complete with Western decor including a saddle and wooden wagon wheels, it was full of decedent desserts many locals had made including Sweet Treats Up the Street by Stacy Canell. A table was also filled with appetizer items including jumbo shrimp, fruit, crackers and other snacks.
The Gala Gals (Bridgette LaPierre, Clara Cummings-St. James principal, Julie Wainwright-alumna, Laurel Bartholomew-St. James School secretary/parent volunteer, Brandy Parshley-parent volunteer, Dayna Leader-parent volunteer and Mary Elizabeth Friot, St. James second grade teacher) work very hard to make sure everything needed to make the Gala a success.
 Countless hours and effort are put forth in this dedication. Mrs. LaPierre, Mrs. Cummings and Mrs. Wainwright have all served on the Gala committee since the first one 14 years ago.
    As the Gala's features were all ready to go, Wendy Drake was set up for the Gala in the St. James School's library with her professional camera for the outlaws and angels who wanted nice photos taken-as a couple or with friends to capture the essence of the night.
DJ Pete Thuman of Watertown, and alumnus of St. James School, provided the music for the night and has done so for at least the last 11 years of the Gala.
    A silent auction was set up with bid cards along the back wall broken up into four categories “Fool's Gold”, “Flake”, “Nugget” and “Mother Lode”. These items included many rustic handmade pieces and items donated by local businesses and community members. From home decor, gift baskets and toys, to gift certificates and even a set of Adirondack chairs with a small table.
    Silver and gold Sheriff badges were available for purchase by Kindergarten teacher Mrs. Ashley Barr, FAITH group secretary Staci Hayden and Mandy Dake, upon entering the gymnasium. Each badge corresponded by number to a prize. These prizes included gift certificates for local businesses, jewelry, decorative items and few treasure chest keys for a chance to win a greater value prize.
Treasure chest keys were sold by the Gala Gals during the event which could possibly unlock one of the chests on the stage and reveal a prize. Once all the gold keys had been sold, participants lined up ready to test their luck and see if they could get their hands on one of the extravagant prizes.
The prizes available included a jewelry package from Brown's jewelry, $500 cash prize, 300 gallons of fuel oil from Bush Fuels, a romantic evening at the Clearview and dinner at Mullin's Restaurant, an Adirondack package, Elegant Evening Package, Queen for a Day package by Tangles Salon, $300 in gift certificates, Travel in Style luggage and $500 Cowboy Shopping Spree.
As people unlocked the treasure chests, St. James kindergarten teacher, Ashley Barr would play a tambourine letting everyone know there was a winner. Congratulations to everyone lucky enough to unlock those treasure chests! The winners are as follows: Betsy Cummings (300 gallons of fuel oil), Diane Monroe ($500 cash), Angela Ferrick ($300-plus in various local gift certificates), Kristy Kulp (Queen for a Day at Tangles), Josh Jaques (Elegant Evening Package), Diane Monroe (Jacuzzi Suite Romantic Evening), Charlene Mullin (Four-Piece Jewelry Package), Chuck Van Vleet (Adirondack Package), Amanda Newvine (Travel Luggage), Adam Davis (Cowboy Shopping Spree).
Katey Doty and Jessica Doty Allen worked as servers for the night. Nathan Whitton was also a server and organized high school students who volunteered their time to serve as well, filling water glasses and passing out hors d’oeuvres to those looking for a quick bite. The servers also passed out all the courses of dinner to everyone and cleaned up the tables as well.
The aroma of a delicious dinner filled the air, as a gourmet meal was being cooked to perfection by Joe Pistolesi Mr. Pistolesi had help from Melvin Rumble, Laurie Weekes, Natalie Towne, Mark Leonard, Laurie Leonard and Jennifer Link, a St. James parent. The servers brought out roasted red pepper soup, followed by chef's salad and rolls. The main course was Bermuda Triangle which included chicken cutlet, filet of beef, shrimp with hollandaise sauce, Utica greens and roasted carrots.
The live auction proved to bring in top dollar with its array of fantastic items, these items included, Fisher Price Ride On Power Wheels Dune Racer with helmets, Romantic Wine and Dine Package, Progressive inner Cruise for six at Sylvia Lake, Favorite Things Party Hosted by the Gala Gals, Handcrafted Reclaimed Pallet Coffee Table made by Joe Besaw, 14K yellow gold choker necklace valued at $2,750, Travis Tritt Concert Get Away, Circle of Friends Package, Vino Temp/Wine Bar and a Booze Cruise around Sylvia Lake.
This year's Gala raised $4,000 in Tuition Angels which is money that goes directly to support tuition assistance for families of St. James School which need a little help in making tuition payments.
A highlight of the night proved to be the hilariously fun Outlaws Beware! A new sheriff was in town, portrayed by Clara Cummings and Bridgette LaPierre with help from Brandy Parshley and Julie Wainwright, was ready to nab any gamblers, rustlers, bank robbers and anyone else who was caught breaking the law at the Gala.
The outlaws, who played along in good fun, were cuffed and stuffed into the small jail cell constructed by Dan Parshley and weren't allowed out until enough cash was collected from the attendees to pay off the defendant's bail.
First to be nabbed was Lori Pistolesi Wade for smuggling in a flask. Her bail was set at $100. Joe Laurenza was thrown in the slammer and his bail set at $200.
Next was Sister Gregory who was spotted by Mrs. Cummings not wearing the proper attire of cowgirl boots. Her bail was set at $300 and her arrest raised $414!
Next on the list of suspects was Father Shane Lynch, whose bail was set at $500 for impersonating a sheriff, resisting arrest and open container.
Last was Amber Ormasen, who was arrested for indecent exposure and her bail was set at $300. The bail money raised was close to $2,000.
As the dinner and auctions came to a close, the night continued on with a great time of drinks and dancing.
Fantastic job to everyone involved in this event, from volunteers and organizers to sponsors and local businesses who donate to this great cause. St. James School's mission is to “provide a quality Catholic education for students to grow spiritually, academically, socially and psychically, in partnership with families and in harmony with the specific gifts given by God to each student.”
Gouverneur Central High School volunteers include the following: Daniel Whitton, Emily Farrell, Sam Cushman, Erica Briggs, Jenneca Cook, Shayne Hays, Taylor Ormasen, Gracie Manning, Cassidy LaPierre, Corinne LaPierre, Grace Cummings, Bailey Soper, Mary Kate Wainright, Michaela Douglass, Noah Forsythe, Brittany Richardson, Ashley Toppin, Katie Andrews, Julia Erdman, Emily McGregor.
The 2017 Gala Sponsors were listed as follows:
Crown of Jewels – Judy Brown and Joe Laurenza, Tim and Diane Monroe.
Diamond – Blevins Ford Inc. and Team Blevins, LLC, Gouverneur Savings and Loan Association, RSI Roofing, Inc.
Gold – Case and Leader, LLP, Family of Anatolio (Tony and Quinta) Pistolesi, Weekes Insurance Agency.
Silver – Dr. Scott Day, Albert and Theresa Desormeaux, Friends of St. James, Family of Marianno and Maybelle Pistolesi.
Bronze – A Plus Auto Care, Inc., Firley, Moran, Freer & Eassa, CPA, P.C., Friends of St. James, KPH Healthcare Services, Inc., Lacy Realty, LLC -Penny Bogardus, Michael LaPierre PT -Gouverneur PT, Marlene Hajal Mouaikel, MD, Newvine's Auto Parts, NY Pizzeria, RJ Wood Real Estate, LLC, Richville Furniture -Ron Bovay Specialty Floors.
The treasure chest sponsors were BCS Landscaping, Brown's Jewelry and Friends of St. James, Bush Fuels, Mr. and Mrs. Dan Caruso, Clearview Motel, Lawrence Manor, Mr. and Mrs. C. Audet, Nicola's on Main & Grill, 211, other fine Lake Placid Businesses, Northern Collision, Tangles Salon and Day Spa, Touch of Grace and Nelson's Dry-cleaning & Tuxedo, various local vendors.


   

Gouverneur woman charged with grand larceny, identity theft after allegedly stealing debit card

Gouverneur woman charged with grand larceny, identity theft after allegedly stealing debit card

Sarah M. Kriplin, 28, of Gouverneur was arrested on Wednesday, February 8 at 4:15 p.m. at the Gouverneur Police Department on an arrest warrant and charged with grand larceny in the third degree and identity theft in the first.  
Kriplin allegedly stole a debit card from another person and used that card to make various purchases between November 24, 2016 to January 6, 2017 totaling $3,553.99 without the consent of the owner.
She was arraigned at the Gouverneur Town Court before Justice Travis Dann and released under supervision of probation.
Village of Gouverneur Police Chief Laurina Greenhill reported the above in the police blotter to the Gouverneur Tribune Press. Other blotter items include the following:
Joshua R. Daniels, 34, of Gouverneur was arrested on Friday, February 3 at 11:32 a.m. for criminal contempt 2nd (10 counts) and conspiracy 6th (6 counts).  It is alleged that between January 12th- 20th, 2017 he made ten phone calls to another person in violation of a stay away order of protection and during six of those occasions conspired with another to assist him in making contact with that person.
He was processed at the St. Lawrence County Correctional where he is being held on unrelated charges.  He was issued appearance tickets returnable to the Town of Canton Court.
A 53-year-old Gouverneur man was arrested on Friday, February 3 at 2:15 p.m. on a mental health pickup order. He was transported to Claxton Hepburn Medical Center for evaluation.
A 49-year-old Gouverneur man was arrested on Tuesday, February 7 at 7:08 p.m. on a mental health pickup order. He was taken into custody and transported to Gouverneur Hospital Emergency Room per direction of the pickup order.
Heather L. Loucks, 26, of Gouverneur was arrested on Thursday, February 9 at 3:58 p.m. on Trinity Avenue and charged with criminal mischief 3rd, endangering the welfare of a child and disorderly conduct following investigation of a February 5, 2017 domestic incident.
During the dispute she is alleged to have taken a laptop that belonged to the other party and smashed it over her knee causing damage and then pushed the other party while that party was holding a child.
She was issued appearance tickets returnable to the Gouverneur Town Court.

Fowler playground plans sent to New York State for approval

Fowler playground plans sent to New York State for approval
by Rachel Hunter
The final draft of the proposed Town of Fowler playground has been sent to New York State for approval, according to Town of Fowler Deputy Supervisor Rick Newvine.
Copies of the plans were passed around at the Feb. 7 meeting of the Town of Fowler board.
The playground has a capacity of 70 persons, and is designed for youth (ages 2-12). The use zone is 67’x62’ with an area of 4,158 sq. feet and a perimeter of 258 feet. The equipment manufacturer is Playworld, and the sales representative is R.E. Woodson Inc. of Rochester, N.Y.
The listed playground equipment includes two pre-designed playgrounds (one for children two to five years of age, and one for children five to 12 years of age), a spinner, a heavy-duty swing set with four belt seats, and an accessible swing seat.
Colors are yet to be determined.
The playground will be Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant, and will include a wheelchair ramp entrance.
The total estimated cost to purchase all materials is $48,742.
Deputy Supervisor Newvine said it is expected to meet the requirements of the $50,000 grant made available to the Town of Fowler from New York State through Senator Patty Ritchie’s office.
The playground project's administrative committee consists of Town Clerk Kelly Harmer, Councilwoman Karen Simmons and Councilman Rick Newvine. Debra Tupper was appointed to the playground committee in January.
The next meeting of the Town of Fowler board is to be held on March 7 at 7 p.m. at the Fowler Town Hall.

GPD Blotter: 18-year-old Gouverneur woman charged with unlawful imprisonment

Destiny Jo S. Hart, 18, of Gouverneur was arrested at 11:50 a.m. on Wednesday, February 1 at the Gouverneur Police Department upon follow up investigation of a January 29, 2017 domestic incident at a Sleepy Hollow Rd. apartment.
Hart was charged with unlawful imprisonment 2nd and disorderly conduct. Hart engaged in a verbal argument with another person that was loud enough to disturb the neighboring apartment.
As the arguing escalated she blocked a bedroom door to prevent the other party from exiting the bedroom and leaving the apartment.
She was issued appearance tickets returnable to the Gouverneur Town Court.
Village of Gouverneur Police Chief Laurina Greenhill announced this and the following police blotter items:
Kyle R. Lashbrooks, 20, of Gouverneur was arrested at 9:02 p.m. on Saturday, January 28 on W. Main St. following a traffic stop.  He was charged with unlawful possession of marijuana, inadequate muffler, unsafe tires, inadequate stop lamps and operating with no headlamps. He was released on appearance tickets returnable to the Gouverneur Town Court.
Scott A. Hayden Jr., 23, of Gouverneur was arrested at 2:40 p.m. on Sunday, January 29 at the Gouverneur Police Department following investigation of a domestic incident at a Sleepy Hollow Rd. apartment.  He was charged with disorderly conduct and animal cruelty.  It is alleged he engaged in a verbal argument with another that was loud enough to disturb the neighboring apartment.  As he was leaving the apartment he was witnessed kicking a Jack Russell Terrier dog. He was arraigned at the Gouverneur Town Court before Justice Travis Dann and released on his own recognizance to appear at a later date.
Samantha R. Law, 28, of Gouverneur was charged at 8:41 a.m. on Monday, January 30 on Depot St. following investigation of a vehicle and traffic incident on January 29, 2017.  She was issued traffic summonses for inadequate headlamp and failure to notify DMV change of address on her driver’s license and vehicle registration.  All returnable to the Gouverneur Town Court.
Amy L. Turner, 48, of Antwerp was charged at 12:47 p.m. on Monday, January 30 with passed red light on W. Main Street. Turner was issued a traffic summons returnable to the Gouverneur Town Court.
A 49-year-old Gouverneur man was arrested at 4:22 p.m. on Tuesday, January 31 as a result of mental health pick up order. He was transported to Claxton Hepburn Medical Center for a mental health evaluation.

GTA stands up for the Day of Action

by Brooke Santamont
Members of the Gouverneur Teacher’s Association (GTA) showed solidarity in taking action on Jan. 19 to show their support for public schools.  
Co-Presidents Pam Mahay and Brooke Santamont visited each school to support fellow GTA members in showing unity by standing up for recent public education concerns.  
The GTA members held up shields to reclaim our schools and to show what they stand up for daily for all students, teachers, and within our community.  Many shields addressed slowing down the Common Core, to stop over-testing, addressing the needs of poverty, under funding concerns, and to show the teacher union's apprehension for Betsy DeVos, who is President Donald Trump’s choice for education secretary.  
The GTA members wear red every Tuesday to show their support for our public schools!

Here are some examples of the shields that the GTA members created showing what they stand up for daily for local public schools and students! (photo provided)

Here are some examples of the shields that the GTA members created showing what they stand up for daily for local public schools and students! (photo provided)

East Side Elementary GTA members support Take Action Day by wearing red! (photo provided)

East Side Elementary GTA members support Take Action Day by wearing red! (photo provided)

West Side Elementary GTA members support Public Education and took action to reclaim focus on our public schools. (photo provided)

West Side Elementary GTA members support Public Education and took action to reclaim focus on our public schools. (photo provided)

The High School and Middle School GTA members came together to support Take Action Day! (photo provided)

The High School and Middle School GTA members came together to support Take Action Day! (photo provided)

Gouverneur Police Chief applauds department for efforts in 2016

by Rachel Hunter
For the calendar year of 2016, the Gouverneur Police Department responded 4,910 calls for service, and made 705 arrests.
The arrests were for offenses in penal law, vehicle and traffic law, mental hygiene law, correction law, ag and markets law, public health law and bench warrants issued pursuant to criminal procedure law, executive law, and the Family Court Act along with miscellaneous offenses.
“In my opinion, our agency should be applauded for our efforts considering we are not fully staffed and given that a police officer is not on duty for approximately 1,560 hours due to that manpower shortage,” Chief Laurina Greenhill said at the Jan. 17 meeting of the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees.
Chief Greenhill also reported the following notable items of the Gouverneur Police Department since the last village board meeting:
The Gouverneur Police Department answered 361 calls for service, wrote eight traffic tickets, and arrested 30 people with a total of 53 charges.
On Dec. 28 and 29, Officer Whitton and a member of the New York State Police shared a transport detail to Ohio to take into custody Joshua Daniels who had been taken into custody by Ohio authorities after fleeing New York. Police investigation determined that Daniels was involved in the connection of several burglaries that plagued the Gouverneur area in recent months. He was charged with five counts of burglary in the third degree, four counts of mischief in varying degrees, five counts petit larceny, and one count grand larceny in the third. A co-defendant, Thomas M. Barbarito, was charged earlier in the month in connection with the burglaries.
On Jan. 9, as a member on the Board of Directors, Chief Greenhill attended the opening of the new session of the David Sullivan St. Lawrence County Law Enforcement Academy. The county chiefs and the county sheriffs spoke briefly to new cadets.
On Jan. 13, Chief Greenhill attended the Child Advocacy Center Multidisciplinary Team Meeting to go over more protocols, and began keys review as part of the ongoing development of a child advocacy center in St. Lawrence County.

Gouverneur Tribune Press adopts 10-digit phone number policy

by Rachel Hunter
The Gouverneur Tribune Press will begin publishing 10-digit phone numbers in the newspaper, effective February 3, 2017, to help aid in the dialing transition.
New York State regulators announced that 315 had been projected to become "exhausted" in the third quarter of 2010. The New York State Public Service Commission at the time weighed two options: an overlay area code, or a split into two codes. A split would have included a north-south arrangement, splitting Oswego County and the north from 315, or an east-west split, with Oswego and Onondaga forming the boundary. Regulators met to discuss a second code in the 315 region; because of economic conditions, assignable numbers did not run out in the third quarter of 2010 as predicted.
In March 2017, telephone companies will start giving out phone numbers in area code 680, which will cover the same 18-county region as 315.
For most of us, that means one big change:
Beginning at 12:01 a.m. Feb. 11, 2017, we will have to dial an area code for every phone call we make, even local calls within area code 315. Even calls to your spouse or your next-door neighbor. If you don't dial the full 10-digit number, including area code, you'll get a recording telling you to hang up and try again.
For now, you can get away with dialing either seven digits or 10 for local calls. But it's time to start thinking about what you have to do to prepare.
Yes, it's for real this time.
Plans for a second area code have been debated, and vigorously opposed, for 18 years. State senators and other public officials lobbied hard to prevent a second area code, arguing that it would be a big hassle. But the state Public Service Commission finally pulled the trigger on a new area code last year, concluding that it can't be put off again. Area code 680 is definitely coming.
Here are the key dates to remember:
Feb. 11, 2017: Mandatory 10-digit dialing begins. All local calls must be dialed with 10 digits (area code plus seven-digit number) as of this date. If you dial a local call with just seven digits, you will not get through.
March 11, 2017: This is the earliest date for phone numbers in area code 680 to go into service. The new area code will be assigned to new phone numbers. Nobody with an existing 315 number will have to switch area codes.
You can still call 911. You'll still dial just 911 to reach emergency responders. The same goes for other N11 services such as 411, 211, 511 and 811.
Calling rates won't change. Nothing about your phone bill should change as a result of the additional area code. You will continue to pay the same rates for the same kinds of calls.
Some calls will require 11 digits. Most mobile phones and digital landline phones will complete calls if you dial just 10 digits. But on traditional landline phones, you will have to dial 1 plus the 10-digit number to call outside of your own area code.
Start updating your contact list now. Chances are, you have a contact list in your phone that allows you to simply tap a name rather than dial that person's number. If you entered your Central New York contacts without the area code, you'll have to add 315 to the numbers. Once 10-digit dialing kicks in, your calls won't go through without the area code.
Reprogram any automatic dialing equipment you may have. Do you have a home alarm system that automatically dials a local call center when it trips? Do you have dial-up internet service that connects your modem to a local phone exchange? Make sure equipment such as this is reprogrammed to dial the 10-digit number including area code.
Ordering new business stationery? Now is the time to start updating your business cards, stationery, personal checks or other printed materials to add your area code.
Help your children get ready. Teach children and anyone else who needs help how to dial 10 digits.

Friends For Jake benefit to be held on Jan. 29

by Rachel Hunter
A “Friends For Jake” benefit will be held on Sunday, January 29 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Mullin's Restaurant, located at 1180A US Highway 11 in Gouverneur.
The event will be hosted by friends of Jake Ferrick, 8, the son of Jason and Angela Ferrick of Gouverneur – who is fighting against cancer after being diagnosed with Stage Four High Risk Neuroblastoma.
The following update was taken from Team Jake's GoFundMe page, posted November 30, 2016:
“Jake underwent 16 months of cancer treatment at Golisano Children's Hospital in Syracuse.  He had extensive chemotherapy for months, radiation treatment, two stem cell transplants, and immunotherapy.  He lost a considerable amount of weight.  He lost his ability to walk, and he was unable to attend school during his entire first grade year.  
“We were so hopeful for the ending scans to show us that all this horrible treatment had taken away this nightmare.  Unfortunately, our hopes disappeared when we found out that he still had extensive cancer left in his hip.  Jake's doctors told us that they had done all that they could do for him, and he would have to be referred to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, one of the best Neuroblastoma Research hospitals in the country.  
“Two weeks later, Jake and his parents were on the way to Philadelphia.  While there he underwent a new treatment called MIBG therapy where radioactive medication was infused through his body to hopefully begin a new regimen of cancer therapy.  He also had a genetic study of his cancer by taking a small sample of tissue from inside his hip bone.  
“Apparently, Jake suffers from a mutated ALK gene which continues to produce cancer cells.  The doctors in Philadelphia are putting Jake into a clinical study where he can receive a medication that may be able to turn off this mutated gene.  But before he could qualify for the clinical trial, he had to be built up nutritionally.  Since he has been unable to eat much during this year and a half of treatment, he has become very thin and weak, so he has just been given a nasogastric tube which will infuse nutrition into his body hourly.  
“We are hoping and praying that this clinical trial will be the answer to our prayers and bring our little Jake back to us cancer free and healthy, but it is going to be a long drawn out uphill battle with many trips to Philadelphia starting again on December 4th.  
“We have been so blessed to have received both financial and emotional support from our awesome family, friends, and community.  The outpouring of love and support has been heartwarming over this year and a half.  But, we are afraid that all these trips to Philadelphia will be a huge financial burden to our family in the long run.”
Jake's friends – Trey D'Agostino, Robert (RJ) Kulp, and John-Michael Leader – wanted to help to lessen that burden, and so they decided to organize this dinner with the help of Tina Mullin of Mullin's Restaurant who said she believes God gave them the restaurant so that they can help others.
The “Friends For Jake” benefit will be held on Sunday, January 29 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Mullin's Restaurant, located at 1180A US Highway 11 in Gouverneur. It will feature a $10 spaghetti dinner, and the three youngsters will be the servers. Mrs. Mullin said meals can be split for children in attendance. There also will be take-outs available.
The event will also feature a bake sale (hosted by friends of Jake from St. James).
Everyone interested in attending are encouraged to wear yellow and maroon, Jake's favorite colors.
Those who are interested in donating toward the cause are encouraged to donate gas cards to help alleviate that cost for the Ferrick family.
Pre-sale tickets are available at the St. James office or by calling Mullin's at 287-0063.

Robert (RJ) Kulp.

Robert (RJ) Kulp.

John-Michael Leader.

John-Michael Leader.

Trey D'Agostino.

Trey D'Agostino.

Congresswoman Stefanik sworn in for second term

On Jan. 3, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY-21) was sworn in to her second term representing New York’s 21st District in the United States Congress. She issued the following statement:
“I am honored to have the opportunity to continue fighting on behalf of our great district,” said Congresswoman Stefanik. “Over the next two years, I look forward to working in Congress on bipartisan solutions that will help families across the North Country. This new Congress and Administration brings important new opportunities to get our economy growing, rebuild our national defense, and grow opportunities for all Americans. I look forward to working hard on your behalf and I thank you for the opportunity to serve.”

Gouverneur, DeKalb, Edwards proclaim National School Choice Week

by Rachel Hunter
National School Choice Week (January 22-28, 2017) has been recognized and proclaimed by municipalities in the North Country, including Gouverneur, DeKalb, and Edwards.
School choice means giving parents the opportunity to select the best K-12 education environments for their individual kids. These options include traditional public schools, public charter schools, public magnet schools, online learning, private schools, and homeschooling.
During National School Choice Week, millions of Americans will celebrate these effective education options for children.
National School Choice Week 2017 will eclipse the 16,745 events last year with nearly 4,000 more rallies, open houses, roundtable discussions and other planned events centered on highlighting the virtues of a wide variety of school choice options, from homeschooling to private schools, to online academies and charter schools.
National School Choice Week 2017 will run from January 22-28, just days after New York businessman Donald Trump is slated to be sworn into office on January 20.
President-Elect Trump in November announced he intends to appoint Michigan philanthropist and longtime school choice advocate Betsy DeVos as his education secretary.
“Betsy DeVos is a brilliant and passionate education advocate,” Trump said. “Under her leadership, we will reform the U.S. education system and break the bureaucracy that is holding our children back so that we can deliver a world-class education and school choice to all families.”
DeVos is chairman of the American Federation for Children and board member of other school choice organizations that have supported National School Choice Week.
“The status quo in education is not acceptable,” DeVos said in November. “Together, we can work to make transformational change that ensures every student in America has the opportunity to fulfill his or her highest potential.”
DeVos has a long history of championing private school vouchers and other educational options in Michigan and other states, and helped to found the charter high school West Michigan Aviation Academy in Grand Rapids.
She’s also earned high praises from a variety of influential political leaders, including Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder and former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush.
“Betsy’s appointment will mean great things for Michigan and for children around the nation as she takes her no-nonsense commitment to empowering parents to the highest levels in Washington,” Gov. Snyder said.
Empowering parents with options for their children’s education is the whole goal of National School Choice Week.
“Every January, National School Choice Week spotlights the millions of students, parents, teachers, and civic leaders who make education options a reality in their own communities and states,” NSCW president Andrew Campanella said.
“With 2017 poised to be a pivotal year for school choice, National School Choice Week will provide an unprecedented chance to celebrate school choice where it exists, and demand it where it doesn’t.”
For more information, visit SchoolChoiceWeek.com.

Northern New York Community Foundation Youth Philanthropy Grant applications due Feb. 1

The deadline for Youth Philanthropy Grant applications is Feb. 1.
The council will evaluate all proposals and have up to $20,000 to award in grant funding this June.
The Youth Philanthropy Council of the Northern New York Community Foundation is accepting grant requests from non-profit organizations for programs, projects or initiatives positively impacting the quality of life in Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties.
Agencies providing services anywhere within the tri-county area are encouraged to apply.
The deadline to submit a proposal for consideration is Feb. 1.
The Youth Philanthropy Council consists of 14 representatives from three local school districts: Watertown High School, Immaculate Heart Central School, and Sackets Harbor Central School. Over the program’s history, the council has issued more than $90,000 in grant funding and supported more than 50 non-profit organizations located in Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties.
The Youth Philanthropy Council program is made possible through the generosity of Watertown Savings Bank, Renzi Foodservice, RBC Wealth Management, and annual gifts made to Friends of the Community Foundation Community Betterment Fund.
Non-profit organizations interested in applying for grant funding through the Youth Philanthropy Council may contact council advisors Max DelSignore (max@nnycf.org) or April Fallon (april@nnycf.org) to obtain the program’s grant guidelines.
Proposals should include a general description of the organization and request, the grant amount requested, how the funding will be utilized and the expected impact of the program or project.