Silas Wainwright VFW Post 6338 to honor Veteran, Auxilian of the Year

by Rachel Hunter

The 79th Silas Wainwright VFW Post 6338 Anniversary Dinner & Dance will be held on Saturday, March 8 at the VFW Hall, 100 W. Main Street, Gouverneur. The event includes: cocktail hour (5 p.m.), pot roast dinner (6 p.m.), awards ceremony (7 p.m.), and dance featuring The Common Revolution (8 p.m. to midnight). Tickets are now available for purchase, $15 each, at the VFW Post 6338 during regular hours of operation.

The event will honor Veteran of the Year George Griffith of Gouverneur, and Auxilian of the Year Jeff Platt of Gouverneur. The announcement was recently made by Silas Wainwright VFW Post 6338 Commander Roland Roderick.

Veteran of the Year

George Griffith of Gouverneur has been selected as Veteran of the Year. Griffith graduated from Gouverneur High school, and enlisted into U.S. Navy in 1968. He went to Vietnam on a destroyer, the USS Agerholm. “We did plane guard, and went up the Mouth of the Mekong. We shot five-inch rounds. We shot a lot there. We would shoot all day, and unload ammo all night at sea.” Griffith served for three years, ten months and then returned to his beloved hometown of Gouverneur, NY. He was employed at Seaker Chevrolet in Gouverneur, iron works in Virginia and Gouverneur, Harrisville Manufacturing, and enjoyed a 30-year career at the Natural Dam paper mill.

Griffith joined VFW Post 6338 in 1968. Griffith told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that his father paid his membership while he was overseas. “I have been a member ever since,” he said. “I was always worried about not getting the membership paid. But then I won the life membership here a few years ago.” Griffith is now retired, and enjoys volunteering at the VFW Post 6338. “I just came here to help,” he said. Griffith serves as an assistant to Quartermaster William Randall, and helps the VFW Post 6338 with bookwork, writing checks, and counting the gambling tickets. As of press time this week, the hunt for the Queen of Hearts is still on. The jackpot is now over $55,000. The next drawing is Friday night, 6 p.m., at 100 W. Main St., Gouverneur.

Griffith encourages all North Country residents to apply for membership at the Silas Wainwright VFW Post 6338 in Gouverneur. For more information, call 315-287-4682 or stop by 100 W. Main St., Gouverneur during regular hours of operation.

George Griffith married Nancy Faye Marcellus on August 1, 1969, at the Gouverneur VFW Post rooms. The couple enjoyed nearly four decades of marriage, before Nancy passed away in 2008. The couple raised three children, Laura Schneller of DePeyster, Bryan Griffith of Gouverneur, Sarah Griffith of Gouverneur, and have grandchildren. Griffith is now in a relationship with Barbara Laidlaw of Gouverneur.

While he believes himself to be “no hero,” Griffith looks forward to celebrating the 79th Anniversary of the Silas Wainwright VFW Post 6338 with family and friends.

Auxilian of the Year

Jeff Platt of Gouverneur, a retired U.S. Air Force veteran, will be presented the Auxilian of the Year honor.

Platt worked as a telecommunications specialist and scientific laboratory technician. He went to basic training on December 10, 1973. He separated on December 31, 1993, and entered retired status on January 1, 1994. He retired after 20 years of military service. His first assignment took him to Okinawa, Japan. He was stationed at Fort George G. Meade in Maryland, cross-trained at McClellan Air Force Base in California, and Patrick Air Force Base in Florida. He received a National Defense Ribbon with a Battle Star for being a Vietnam-era veteran who served during Operation Desert Storm. He also has a commendation medal, and many awards.

“I was never in theatre of operations, so I am not eligible for the VFW,” Platt said, explaining that he belongs to the VFW Auxiliary at Post 6338, James Maloy American Legion Post 65, Heuvelton AmVets Post 1997, and the Air Force Sergeants Association.

Jeff Platt told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that he joined the Silas Wainwright VFW Post 6338 Auxiliary on October 16, 2015 under his eldest brother, Charles “Clifford” Platt, a life member of the VFW Post 6338, who was stationed at Korea. Platt has served the local post as conductor (2017), president (2018-2024), and senior vice president (2025), and a two-year trustee. At the district level, he has taken on the roles of senior vice president, president, treasurer, three-year trustee. At the state level, he is currently serving as Department of New York Assistant Chief of Staff for District 9. Platt also serves as the Scholarship Chairman and Youth Chairman for the VFW Post 6338 Auxiliary. He also takes great pride in the VFW Auxiliary’s support for veterans and families throughout the North Country region.

Jeff Platt has two children who live in Florida, four granddaughters, and a grandson. He is looking forward to the 79th VFW Post 6338 Anniversary Dinner and Dance on March 8, and celebrating with friends and family.

Mr. Platt encourages all youths to participate in the Illustrating America (Kindergarten to Grade 8) and Patriotic Art (Grades 9-12) contests. The deadline is March 31, 2025. For more information, call 315-287-4682 or visit vfwauxiliary.org. All submissions must be made through the Silas Wainwright VFW Post 6338 Auxiliary.

Anticipation is high for the 79th Silas Wainwright VFW Post 6338 Anniversary Dinner & Dance on Saturday, March 8. Purchase tickets now to ensure your seat. Stop by the VFW Hall at 100 W. Main St., Gouverneur for more information. The public is invited and encouraged to attend. Doors will open at 8 p.m. for those who would just like to see the free show from local band, The Common Revolution. For more information, call 315-287-4682.

Gouverneur COs on strike

by Rachel Hunter

Corrections officers from the Gouverneur Correctional Facility went on strike this past Tuesday (Feb. 18), joining strikes at other prisons across New York State.

People stood in frigid temperatures in front of the Gouverneur Correctional Facility, and at the local strike headquarters, which have been established at Mullin’s Restaurant in Gouverneur.

New York State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association (NYSCOPBA) said in a statement that it does not sanction the strikes. Strikes by government employees are illegal under a section of state Civil Service Law commonly known as the Taylor Law. Employees lose two days of pay for every day they are on strike.

As local media has reported, the strikes began Monday at Collins Correctional Facility near Buffalo, which went into lockdown for several days last week after contraband was found. The protest has since grown to several other facilities across the state. Discontent has been growing among corrections officers as they say they are forced to work extensive amounts of overtime due to a staffing shortage.

Union leaders recently issued a vote of “no confidence” in Daniel Martuscello III, the state corrections commissioner. Senator Dan Stec (R,C-Queensbury) has called for the resignation of DOCCS Commissioner Daniel Martuscello III. Stec sponsors legislation that addresses many of the concerns presented by correction officers, from a repeal of HALT to mandatory use of body scanners and improved secure vendor processes. Stec reports that these bills have become more important than ever, as a series of events inside correctional facilities have imperiled the safety of officers and civilian staff. “A few weeks ago, two dozen officers and civilian staffers at Upstate Correctional Facility received medical care after a synthetic drug exposure. Last week, inmates took over dorms and forced a lockdown at Collins. These events are occurring because of HALT, loopholes in the secure vendor process and use of body scanners and reduced staffing levels. It’s clear that Commissioner Martuscello is incapable of responding to these very real safety concerns and has lost the trust of our correction officers. For the safety of these dedicated men and women to help restore order and faith in the leadership structure of DOCCS, Commissioner Martuscello must resign or be removed from his post,” Stec said. Senator Stec penned a letter to Gov. Hochul calling for Commissioner Martuscello’s resignation.

On Tuesday, Senator Walczyk called on Governor Hochul to stop ignoring the pressing needs of correction officers and to take immediate action to ensure their safety and well-being. Correctional Officers (COs) are advocating for essential and simple improvements, including the implementation of body scanners, vendor secure mail options, and the repeal of the HALT Act—simple yet critical requests that have been overlooked and ignored by the Albany Democrats and Governor Hochul. In response to the ongoing unrest, Senator Walczyk issued the following statement: “It is no surprise that we find ourselves in this situation. Time and again, Corrections Officers have raised their voices for support and necessary reforms, yet their pleas have gone unanswered. Instead of prioritizing the safety of our COs  across the state, Governor Hochul and her colleagues have enacted policies that hinder their ability to do their jobs effectively and safely.  Our Corrections Officers face life-threatening conditions every day in an environment that has descended into chaos. The absence of meaningful reform has put them in harm's way.  It is high time we prioritize their safety and stop coddling criminals,” Walczyk emphasized. Senator Walczyk has a proven track record of advocating for Corrections Officers during his more than six years in the State Legislature. He has opposed measures granting the Governor the authority to close state prisons, called for the implementation of a secure vendor program, and championed the end of double-bunking in facilities. Additionally, he sponsored legislation to place drug-sniffing dogs in every state prison in New York. Walczyk is also a cosponsor of S.2656, which seeks to repeal the HALT Act—a law he opposed that limits the tools available to COs for maintaining order within correctional facilities. Senator Walczyk remains committed to fighting for the rights and safety of Corrections Officers, ensuring that they have the support they need to carry out their essential duties. Senator Walczyk represents four correctional facilities in his District, Gouverneur, Riverview, Cape Vincent and Hale Creek. 

NYS Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush issued the following statement: “The safety of the men and women inside our state correctional facilities has been increasingly at risk due to bad liberal policies such as the HALT Act where inmate on staff assault rates are up 76% and inmate on inmate assaults are up 169%. Staff and family pleas for help have been ignored compounded by massive staff shortages and forced closures causing this to be at a crisis and unstainable level of chaos. The Governor has mobilized the National Guard, but she should have been mobilizing common sense and prioritized safety in our correctional facilities. There needs to be an immediate course correction and I am prepared to apply as much outreach and pressure as possible.” Assemblyman Blankenbush along with Senators Dan Stec and Mark Walczyk introduced legislation earlier this month to require the use of body scanners in NYS Correctional Facilities by inmates and visitors.

NYS Governor Kathy Hochul on Feb. 18 announced preparations to utilize the New York National Guard to protect correction officers who are currently on the job, individuals in DOCCS care and the communities surrounding these correctional facilities. The Governor also directed Department of Corrections and Community Supervision Commissioner Daniel Martuscello and senior Administration officials to meet with leaders from the New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association to call for an end to the unlawful work stoppage that is causing significant public safety concerns across New York.

“The illegal and unlawful actions being taken by a number of correction officers must end immediately," Governor Hochul said. "We will not allow these individuals to jeopardize the safety of their colleagues, incarcerated people, and the residents of communities surrounding our correctional facilities. I have directed my Administration to meet with union leadership to resolve this situation and have also ordered the National Guard be mobilized to secure our correctional facilities in the event it is not resolved by tomorrow. Correction officers do difficult work under challenging circumstances, and I have consistently fought for them to have better pay and working conditions and will continue to do so.”

Governor Hochul prepared to deploy members of the New York National Guard to DOCCS facilities (Feb. 19) if the unlawful work stoppage does not end, and take appropriate disciplinary action as necessary. The Governor has also directed her Counsel to work with the Office of the Attorney General on legal mechanisms such as the Taylor Law which will compel employees to return to work.

DOCCS Commissioner Daniel F. Martuscello III said, “Earlier today we met with NYSCOPBA President Summers and his Executive Board to discuss a path forward to returning all facilities to normal operations and ending this illegal strike. The safety and security of the staff and incarcerated population is paramount to me. I value the hard work and commitment of the men and women at DOCCS who have had to sacrifice time with their families due to the current staffing shortage. However, this illegal job action involving NYSCOPBA members is causing irreparable harm to the operations of the department and jeopardizing the safety and security of their co-workers within these facilities. We will continue to develop strategies to reduce assaults and to bring more staff on board with NYSCOPBA, the recognized bargaining agency for correction officers and sergeants. There is always room for progress and for disagreements and we welcome continued dialogue with the union at the table. At this time, I am urging all those on strike to end this job action.”

Governor Hochul reports that she has worked with NYSCOPBA to improve salaries, benefits and working conditions for corrections officers. In March 2024, the union agreed to a collective bargaining agreement with the State of New York to improve working conditions for corrections officers: Increased salaries and starting pay for new employees by $6,500. Increased Correction Officer location-based pay by $500 to $1,000 per Officer for downstate assignments. Increased Correction Officer hazardous duty pay from $200 to $1,075. Provides 12 weeks of fully-paid parental leave. Governor Hochul has also fought successfully to pass new laws and implement administrative changes to protect corrections officers. This includes advancing legislation to authorize the use of body scanners in correctional facilities and securing funding to procure the deployment of this technology. The Governor also supported DOCCS implementation of the vendor package program leading to large reductions in contraband entering our correctional facilities. Governor Hochul has also expanded efforts to increase recruitment and hiring of new correction officers.

Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall raised the topic during the Feb. 18 meeting of the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees. “In case you haven’t heard, there’s been a number of things that have happened in the past month or two involving the Department of Corrections… There’s what happened at Marcy, and there’s been other labor relations problems at a couple of prisons, but one in western New York particularly, where for a while correctional officers had to give up some of the dorms that they were supervising, because of all the violence. As a result of that, some prisons decided to have some work stoppages, to some might be known as a wildcat strike, but nevertheless work stoppages. It is not sanctioned by the union, but nevertheless, it is important. They think it is important, and it is growing by the minute. Last night, on my way home, it was 14 and by this morning it was 26 correctional facilities. Here, locally, there was a protest in Ogdensburg this morning. I did not going to that, but their assemblyman did. Our State Senator, Mark Walczyk, came here to Gouverneur, to the prison. I went up this afternoon. It is an interesting situation. There’s a bunch of demands from the organized labor or the Corrections and members. If you haven’t heard Mullin’s is the strike or “work interruption” headquarters. That is a good way to put it… I was there for a bit, along with NYS Assemblyman Scott Gray. That is what is going on. I was probably underdressed for it, and I got (a DOCCS hat). One of those correctional officers felt sorry for an old guy with no hat. It was cold… there were burn barrels and the whole nine yards. Anyway, that is what is going on. It is a very unfortunate situation. As of an hour ago, the National Guard has been put on notice. They have not been activated. But her administration said that if this does not end by tomorrow night, they will be activated. Some of the people I talked to said, it will not be over tomorrow night. It would appear we will have some members of the National Guard at the correctional facility by Thursday or Friday at the latest. It’s unfortunate to say the least, in many ways. There you have it. I figured I would say something…” Mayor McDougall also reported that the Prison Advisory meeting, scheduled for Feb. 19, had been canceled.

During New Business, Deputy Mayor Charles Newvine asked: “Will the National Guard be held to the same workplace conditions as the correctional officers are held to?” Mayor McDougall said: “There’s ways around that. As many people know, the governor is very busy dealing with the Mayor of New York City. I am not saying, but I think our correctional facility and all the rest of them are very important too… This wouldn’t be the first time that the National Guard responded when prisons went on strike. It was a different strike, a different union in about 1980. In an emergent situation, things happen. The same work standards? I don’t know how that’s possible.”

“So, the answer to that question is no,” Deputy Mayor Newvine said.

“I doubt it,” Mayor McDougall said. “It is a huge problem, and hopefully it gets rectified sooner than later…”

The North Country community is coming to the aid of the local correctional officers, promising them financial assistance, donations, and other means of support. Monetary donations alongside donations of food items, plastic cutlery, take-out containers, and more are being accepted as long as the strike continues. For more information, stop by Mullin’s Restaurant at 1180A US-11, Gouverneur.

Wildcat Wrestling hosts fourth annual alumni night

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Wildcat Varsity Wrestling Program hosted its Third Annual Alumni Night celebration on Friday, February 7 at the Gouverneur High School.

The event honored the wrestling program’s tradition of success and culture since 1934, and the history of the Gouverneur Wildcat Varsity Wrestling Program was told in the photos, articles, and other memorabilia on display outside the main gymnasium.

There were over 30 Gouverneur Wildcat alumni members present, including the following: Aaron McEathron (2015), David Mark Dailey (1985), Kevin Murdie (2007), Mike Bresett (1976), Shawn LaBow (1992), Porky Roberts (2009), Tommy Sleeman (2004), John Murdie Sr. (1981), Jim Mullin (1983), Ben Hoffman (2009), Shawn Cummings (1993), Joel Baer (1994), Tom Sleeman (1970), Dave Bush (1966), Mike Tyler (1988), Mark Tyler (2001), David Perrigo (2007), Gerry Mannigan (1981), Christian Gillan (2014), Clark Canell (1988), Pete Price (1965), Carson Gates (2009), Chad Finton (1995), Mike Bush (1985), David Sleeman (2008), Tim Tyler (1977), Jim Minckler (1994), Bill Tupper (1996), Dillon Stowell (2013), Albert Redmond (1972), Dylan Morrison (2010), Justin Salter (2006), and Nathan Slate (2006).

The Wildcat Wrestling Alumni Night was the brainchild of volunteer coach Dylan Morrison and has gained momentum ever since its inception in 2022.

For more information about the Gouverneur Central School District, visit www.gcsk12.org.

Town of Gouverneur to purchase more sand to treat local roads

by Rachel Hunter

The Town of Gouverneur Council at its Feb. 11 meeting approved the purchase of 1,500 yards of sand for the Town of Gouverneur Highway Department to use this winter season for the treatment of local roads.

Town of Gouverneur Highway Department Superintendent Michael Wainwright said the following: “We plowed and sanded 23 times in January. 10 times we plowed twice in one day. So that is 33 times we plowed the township... We need to get some more sand. We have salt on surplus up to the state barn that we stockpiled in the fall in case of this problem. We did get 1,000 less yards of sand in the fall. We figured we’d have enough. But, like I say, we went 33 times around the township in a month. It really depleted our salt pile.”

Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr. said. “It’s the 11th of February, and we’ve already gone out six days in February.”

“Probably 1,500 yards of sand will do it, with the 100 ton of salt that we’ve already got. We’ve already paid for the salt. We don’t have to purchase that. It is at that point where if we get one good freezing rainstorm, and we are going to be in trouble. When it is 28 degrees and raining, and you’ve got four 10-wheelers running, it does not take long and you go through a lot of material. I just want to make sure it is okay to…”

“How many yards do you need,” Town Councilperson Lory Whitton asked. “And how much is it per yard?” It was estimated that the total cost would be about $8,000.

“We didn’t have to do it last year,” Supervisor Spilman said. “We were lucky. But every year that I have been here, we’ve had to. Usually it is a little later in the year. Into February and March, you are guessing on whether you are going to make it through.”

Supt. Wainwright said, “I’ve seen it where we’ve had to haul it twice in a winter.”

Councilperson Whitton asked: “Is there a time of year when it is cheaper?”

“No,” Supt. Wainwright said. “Cooke Sand and Gravel pretty much gives us the price that others can’t compete with.”

“You’ve got to do what you’ve got to do,” Councilperson Whitton said.

“Yeah, I just worry,” Supt. Wainwright said. “We could put up 1,500 yards over winter break and not go out. It has happened before. We put up 1,500 yards, and never went out again. Maybe we could cut back next year, depending on what we use. It’s just. We use a lot of sand. Salt’s in it. We have to put the extra in it to get the roads to melt. Maybe I have been a little excessive over it. I don’t know… We put that 100 ton of salt up to the state barn. Now we can just go up there, load our trucks and bring it back. We’ve already paid for it. It is just sitting there waiting in case of an emergency.”

“Then we can put it back next fall,” Supervisor Spilman said.

“Yes, a lot of times that price changes drastically in the middle of the winter,” Supt. Wainwright said. “They’ll jump it up $20 per ton.”

“It’s going to change now,” Deputy Town Supervisor Jay Bowhall said.

“But look at the way it has been,” Supt. Wainwright said. “There’s been storms way down into Texas. There’s states that have gotten snow and cold this year that don’t usually get it. A lot of the salt mines are here real close.”

There was no further discussion on the matter. The motion to allow Supt. Wainwright to purchase 1,500 yards of sand was made by Deputy Town Supervisor Jay Bowhall, seconded by Town Councilperson Lory Whitton. The motion carried, with full support from the Gouverneur Town Council.

“We’ve got to have what we’ve got to have this time of year,” Supervisor Spilman said. “We are going to use some more tomorrow morning, and more on Thursday and Friday and Sunday.”

In other news: The Town of Gouverneur is still working with FEMA on storm recovery.

The Town of Gouverneur Highway Department has started removing trees in preparation for the upcoming building move.

The Town of Gouverneur Highway Department reported a lot of breakdowns with the trucks this month.

The Town of Gouverneur Highway Department has started cleaning out fire hydrants.

The new heaters were installed in the Gouverneur Town Barn.

The next regular meeting of the Town of Gouverneur Council will be held on March 11, 6 p.m. at the Town of Gouverneur Offices Building, 1227 US-11, Gouverneur. For more information, call 315-287-2340 or visit www.gouverneurny.com.

Clifton-Fine Community Fund Supports Five Projects

The Clifton-Fine Community Fund of the Northern New York Community Foundation will support five community projects with $6,000 in grant funding for initiatives and programs that benefit residents of six southeast St. Lawrence County communities.

The Clifton-Fine Community Fund was established at the Community Foundation in 2013 as a geographic-specific fund to support projects and programs that positively impact the quality of life in the southeast St. Lawrence County region, specifically in the towns and hamlets of Fine, Oswegatchie, Star Lake, Newton Falls, Wanakena and Cranberry Lake. The fund aims to enhance the quality of life for all who live in the region while maximizing the opportunity for residents to give where they live.

“Each of these grants touches the lives of so many citizens across the Clifton-Fine region,” said Max DelSignore, Community Foundation vice president. “We are grateful for each recipient that properly stewards these meaningful grants and for the thoughtful donors who make these awards possible. The philanthropic spirit of this region shines through the Clifton-Fine Community Fund. The fund committee and the Community Foundation are eager to support its growth now and in the future.”

The Northern New York Community Foundation stewards this charitable fund. To build initial support, the Foundation awarded a $50,000 challenge grant to donors interested in giving to this philanthropic resource.

By the end of 2014, people from across the region came together to create a $100,000 community fund that will award grants to support local projects and nonprofit organizations in perpetuity.

A committee of Clifton-Fine region residents collaborates with the Community Foundation to evaluate grant requests each year.

Since 2014, the Community Fund has awarded more than two-dozen organizations nearly $56,000 to support 50 projects and initiatives. This year’s grant recipients are:

Clifton-Fine Central School, $2,000 to help continue an after-school program that has seen successful participation in past two years. Programs including art club, cooking, gymnastics, martial arts, and science club were offered to elementary, middle, and high school students. Martial arts experienced the highest participation rate with up to 40 elementary school students attending sessions. Grant funding will help the school district continue a martial arts program and retain a local instructor at a reduced rate.

Additionally, the Hilary J. Hooper Fund of the Northern New York Community Foundation will provide $5,000 to support the program. Mr. Hooper was a Newton Falls resident who passed away in December 2019. During his lifetime, he established a legacy fund at the Foundation to support several charitable organizations and needs in southern St. Lawrence and northern Lewis counties. One of Mr. Hooper’s charitable goals was to help with emerging needs at Clifton-Fine Central School.

Wilderness Health Care Foundation, $1,500 to help Clifton-Fine Hospital with its capital campaign project, which will create a new emergency services annex. The new space will allow for updated private treatment rooms, installation of contemporary equipment, enhancement of physical and occupational therapies spaces, as well as improved lab and imaging rooms. It is the hospital’s most important project in the last 30 years.

Cranberry Lake North Shore Hub, $1,000 to support replacement of a hazardous sidewalk, which hinders accessibility. Established in 2018, the Hub has become an important community gathering venue in Cranberry Lake. The organization offers speaker series, a concert series, events coordinated by the local library and Cranberry Lake Boat Club and much more.

Wanakena Historical Association, $1,000 to help acquire all-weather vinyl curtains for use on the front porch of its history center, which plans to use the porch as a year-round space to feature exhibits and displays, particularly in the spring and autumn seasons. The historical association is one of the most active nonprofit organizations in the Clifton-Fine region and is committed to showcasing the region’s rich industrial history.

Mervin Eno American Legion Post 1539, $457 to support the purchase of new kitchen pots and pans. The legion is actively working on kitchen upgrades to enhance its ability to continue veteran activities and support community gatherings. The Post was chartered in 1946 to support veterans who live in Clifton-Fine area communities. This grant is being supported in stewardship by the Clifton-Fine Economic Development Corporation.

The Clifton-Fine Community Fund will accept proposals for 2026 grant funding in August. Complete details and an application will be made available this summer. Meanwhile, to help extend the effort and make a gift to the fund, visit nnycf.org to access secure online giving.

About the Northern New York Community Foundation: Since 1929, the Northern New York Community Foundation has invested in improving and enriching the quality of life for all in communities across Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties. Through partnerships with businesses and organizations, charitable foundations, and generous families and individual donors, the Community Foundation awards grants and scholarships from an endowment and collection of funds that benefit the region. Its commitment to donors helps individuals achieve their charitable objectives now and for generations to come by preserving and honoring legacies of community philanthropy while inspiring others. The Community Foundation is a resource for local charitable organizations, donors, professional advisors and nonprofit organizations. It also works to bring people together at its permanent home in the Northern New York Philanthropy Center to discuss challenges our communities face and find creative solutions that strengthen the region and make it a great place to live, work, and play.

GHS Small Ensembles wows crowd in concert

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Central School District hosted the Gouverneur High School Small Ensembles Concert on Jan. 30.

A warm welcome was given by GHS Principal Nicole Donaldson. The crowd sat on the edge of their seats, as the talented student-musicians and vocalists took to the auditorium stage for a special evening of music.

The GHS Chamber Singers, directed by Choral Instructor Brett Worden, paid tribute to Audrey Snyder, a well-known choral composer who passed away on Jan. 22. The GHS Chamber Singers performed her arrangement of the folk-rock, folk-chamber ballad “Can’t Catch Me Now” by American singer-songwriter Olivia Rodrigo. Soloists included Taylor Edney, Brianna Scott, Lily Scott, Avian Burt, Alexander Hall, Liam Gallagher, and Hannah Dafoe. The Chamber Singers then wowed the crowd with songs from the musical, “Anastasia,” including “Once Upon A December” (featured soloist Jaylynn Dalton), and “Journey To The Past” (featured soloists Lillianna Shippee, Akaysha Shippee-Ray, and Audrey Ormasen). The Chamber Singers include the following student-vocalists: Abriana Casey, Jaylynn Dalton, Taylor Edney, Audrey Ormasen, Brianna Scott, Akaysha Shippee-Ray, Arianna Sibley, Cassidy Chambers, Hannah Dafoe, Alexis Dake, Alyssa Farr, Madison Hopper, Olivia McDougall, Lily Scott, Lillianna Shippee, Avian Burt, Liam Gallagher, Alexander Hall, Jackson Ritchie, and Zackery Schiszler.

The GHS Select Strings, directed by Instrumental Music Instructor Janeen Streeter, included the following: Audrey Ormasen (viola), Wyatt Slate (violoncello), Alexander Hall (double bass), and Janeen Streeter (violin). The Select Strings performed “Prelude for Cello” arr. by Lewis, “A Thousand Years” arr. by Moore (featured vocal soloist Audrey Ormasen), and “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik” by W. A. Mozart.

The GCS Jazz Band, directed by Instrumental Music Instructor Olivia Montagno, performed “Play That Funky Music” arr. by Victor Lopez, “Pure Imagination” arr. by Craig Skeffington (featuring Hailey Trimm on saxophone), and “Crazy Train” as arr. by Paul Murtha (featuring guitar solo by Nathaniel Celley). The GCS Jazz Band includes the following student-musicians: Joseph Caplinger (flute), Kylie Gallagher (flute), Tiamane Hull (flute), Hailey Trimm (saxophone), Mr. Brett Worden (saxophone), Nicholas Bloxham (trumpet), Malique Zeller (trumpet), Hannah White (French horn), Dallas Doxtater (euphonium), Carly Bartholomew (keyboard), Nathaniel Celley (guitar), Jackson Ritchie (bass), Liam Gallagher (mallets), Avian Burt (percussion), Gavin Davis (percussion), and Cruz Pawananon (percussion).

Much appreciation was extended to the community for their support of music education in the Gouverneur Central School District. Special gratitude was extended to GCS Superintendent of Schools Jackie Kelly, Assistant Superintendent Jessica Sullivan, GHS Principal Nicole Donaldson, Assistant GHS Principal Margeaux Davis, A/V Technician Richard Patton, Gouverneur CSD Board of Education, and the Gouverneur CSD custodial staff. For more information about Gouverneur CSD, visit www.gcsk12.org.

Village hires part-time police dispatcher

by Rachel Hunter

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees at its Jan. 21 meeting approved the hiring of a part-time police dispatcher at the Gouverneur Police Department.

A memorandum from Village of Gouverneur Chief of Police Darren Fairbanks said the following: “Having been approved by the Village board to hire a part-time dispatcher for the Gouverneur Police Department, we have identified a candidate, Reigan Ayen, 18, of Gouverneur, NY who meets the qualifications for such position. I am seeking the board’s approval to offer a part-time, non-competitive dispatch to Reigan at $17.31 per hour. I ask that Reigan’s hire be effective immediately, so arrangements can be made to begin her training, a minimum of 80 hours, as soon as possible. I also ask the board to waive the pre-employment physical requirement. She is already required to undergo the electronic fingerprinting at the expense of the Village in the near future. Thank you for your time and consideration in this matter.”

Mayor Ron McDougall added that Reigan Ayen is a part-time employee with the Village of Gouverneur Recreation Department.

The motion was made by Village of Gouverneur Trustee Troy Besaw, seconded by Deputy Mayor Charles Newvine. The motion carried.

The next regular meeting of the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees will be held on Feb. 18, 6 p.m., in the municipal courtroom. For more information, call 315-287-1720.

Gouverneur Public Library has new director

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Public Library warmly welcomed Ashley Morrison as its new library director, effective January 6, 2025.

Ashley Morrison, a Maryland native, earned her Bachelor’s in Educational Studies with a concentration in Elementary Education from Western Governors University and a Master of Science in Library Science from Pennsylvania Western University. She has been employed at college and public libraries since 2017. She moved to Northern New York with her husband, who is currently serving in the U.S. Army, stationed at Fort Drum. Morrison was employed at the Henderson Free Library (Henderson, NY) in 2023 as a part-time library assistant for six months before taking the full-time position as the library director. Morrison joined the Gouverneur Public Library Director in January 2025, and is excited to see what adventures lie ahead.

“Growing up I went to the library all the time,” she said. “I went to all the story times, did all the programs. I got all of my volunteer hours through the library. And then in college, I worked at my college library for a while. I always liked being in the library, so when the chance came up… I took a job as a clerk, and I just decided that I was going to stick with it… I really like it here. The staff is great. The board is great. The community has been great. It’s a really good experience.”

Library Director Morrison is looking forward to expanding the library’s programming and outreach. The library’s once-popular children’s storytime will now be dubbed as a “Family Story Time,” open to children of all ages. It will be held on Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. in the library loft. The event will feature book readings, singing, crafts, and more. The change is to encourage North Country families to attend, and take advantage of the resources of the local library.

The Gouverneur Public Library also plans to hold “School Break Activities” during the Gouverneur CSD’s Mid-Winter Break. The schedule includes: DIY Sticker Making (Feb. 18, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.), Craft Stations (Feb. 19, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.), Lego Challenge Day (Feb. 20, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.), and Craft Day (Feb. 21, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.). No RSVPs are required.

The Gouverneur Public Library has also announced the return of the Bubble Show Extravaganza by Jeff Boyer on Wednesday, July 23, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. shows. Space is limited for this popular event, and registration is required.

The Gouverneur Public Library will host an author event featuring Tessa Wegert on Thursday, July 10, 6:30 p.m., in the library loft. Tessa Wegert is the author of the popular Shana Merchant mysteries, the most recent of which is “The Coldest Case,” along with the upcoming North Country thriller series. Her books have received starred reviews from Publishers Weekly and Shelf Awareness and have been featured on PBS and NPR Radio. A former journalist and copywriter, Tessa grew up in Quebec and now lives with her husband and children in Connecticut, where she co-founded Sisters in Crime CT and serves on the board of International Thriller Writers (ITW). The author will present on her Shana Merchant series that is set in the Thousand Islands. More details will be reported as information becomes available about this event.

The Gouverneur Public Library will continue to promote its recurring programs: Legos At The Library (third Monday of the month, 4-5 p.m.), Empowerment Book Club (meets monthly at Jumbo’s), Young Adult Book Club (meets monthly at the library loft), Yarnivores (Tuesdays, 1 p.m., in the loft), Financial Fridays with Peaceful Finance with Mickael (every other Friday, 2-4 p.m., in the library loft), and the Summer Reading Program (sign-ups begin in June). See updates online via the library’s page on Facebook.

The library today (Jan. 31) wrapped up the Winter Reading Challenge, which encouraged North Country residents to dive into reading throughout the winter months.

The Gouverneur Public Library, a member library in the North Country Library System, has been serving the local community since 1886. The library looks forward to continue serving the community by supporting literacy and providing much-needed services, programming, and access to technology that are free to the community. In addition to circulating books, audiobooks on CD, DVDs, and periodicals, the library also offers the loan of musical instruments, snowshoes, fishing poles, discovery backpacks, and so much more. Patrons can use the online NCLS card catalog, and have their desired reading selection delivered right to the Gouverneur Public Library for pick-up.

The Gouverneur Public Library, 60 Church St., Gouverneur, is open on Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The library is closed on Saturdays. For more information, visit gouverneurlibrary.org or call 315-287-0191.

Town of Gouverneur accepts Data Collector’s resignation

by Rachel Hunter

The Town of Gouverneur Council at its Jan. 14 meeting accepted with regret the resignation of Data Collector Phyllis Shaw.

The letter of resignation was dropped off to Town Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr. in December 2024. It reads as follows: “Supervisor Spilman and the Town Board: I am writing to inform you of my resignation, effective February 1, 2025. My last day on payroll will be January 31, 2025 (close of business). I would like to thank the board for allowing me to serve my community as the Town/Village Data Collector. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the Board for giving me the opportunity to work with and get to know the amazing group of selfless public servants. If there’s anything I can do to assist with any transitional needs, please don’t hesitate to ask. Phyllis Shaw.”

Supervisor Spilman then said the following: “Phyllis is retiring from her regular job at BOCES, and so she is doing both at once…”

“Good for her,” said the town councilmembers and Supervisor Spilman. “I’m jealous,” Town Assessor Sherry Geer said. “Me too,” said Town Clerk Marion Bowhall.

“Can I get a motion to accept Phyllis’ resignation with regrets?” Supervisor Spilman asked. The motion was made by Councilwoman Lory Whitton, seconded by Councilman Curran Wade. The motion carried with full support from the town council.

“How long have you and Phyllis been working together?” Supervisor Spilman asked Assessor Geer. “Since Fowler, right?” Assessor Geer said since 2017. After some discussion, Supervisor Spilman said: “We’ll see what the future holds. She actually loves doing the data collection...”

The next regular monthly meeting of the Town of Gouverneur Council will be held on Tuesday, February 11, 6 p.m., at the Town of Gouverneur Offices Building, 1227 US Highway 11, Gouverneur. For more information, visit www.gouverneurny.com.

Walk With A Doc in Gouverneur draws over 20 participants

by Rachel Hunter

Walk With A Doc returned to Gouverneur on Saturday, January 18 at the Gouverneur Central School Middle School, 25 Wilson St., Gouverneur. All North Country residents were invited to join a variety of St. Lawrence County healthcare providers for a free, fun walk. This event was open to all and is for people of all abilities.

Walk With A Doc in Gouverneur is made possible thanks to the Community Health Center of the North Country, St. Lawrence County Public Health Department, and a Bridge To Wellness: St. Lawrence County Health Improvement Plan. The event was hosted by the Community Health Center of the North Country, with inspirational addresses by Community Health Center of the North Country (Gouverneur)’s Kylie Lansing, PA-C, and Clifton-Fine Hospital’s Michael McCrory, LMHC. Other health care professionals in attendance includes: Community Health Center of the North Country’s Pediatrician Dr. Donald Schuessler, and Brittany Terpstra, Physician Assistant, among others.

Walk With a Doc is a local chapter of an international 501(c)3 that is inspiring communities through movement and conversation. With an aim to make hope and health accessible to everyone around the world, the doctor-led walking groups are safe, fun and a free place to get in some steps, learn about health, and meet new friends. Walking is recognized by the Surgeon General of the United States of America as one of the single most important things we can do for our health.

The 20-person crowd at the Walk With A Doc in Gouverneur was officially welcomed by Raymond Babowicz, the Community Health Center of the North Country’s Director of Communications and Strategic Partnerships. “This is our fourth event here at the Middle School. It's hard to believe… We’ve always had a great relationship here with the school district, with Gouverneur CSD Superintendent of Schools Jackie Kelly and her predecessor as well. I think that is why it is one of our better-attended events. We appreciate all of you coming out today. This is a unique opportunity for us. Normally we just have one guest presenter, usually from the health center. Kylie will do that in a second. But first and foremost, Michael McCrory is joining us from one of our new partners down in Clifton-Fine. We are glad they have come on board, from an organizational perspective, to be a partner with the Walk With A Doc events.”

Michael McCrory, LMHC, of Gouverneur said he was glad to participate in the Walk With A Doc Program. “I am a licensed mental health counselor,” he said. “I live here in Gouverneur, even though I work in Star Lake. I am a full-time mental health counselor. We’re trying to grow our behavioral health program. Some of you may know we are going through a multi-million dollar expansion in our ER right now. In fact, there is a live cam you can watch via YouTube. We are also a new rural emergency hospital. I believe we are the first one in New York State… Mental health and emotional wellness is everything. It has to do with how you manage at work, how you do coping skills in life, parenting, physical health coping, etc. It is really everything, and really important. If you know somebody who needs help in that area… the reality is that we all do in different times of our life… it’s just like getting the common cold… everybody struggles sometimes. Seek some help. I think society overall has made progress in reducing the negative stigma that sometimes exists with seeking help… thankfully that is dying out. Healthy, strong people address their problems and work to improve their life. If we can be a part of that, we would love to be a part of that.”

“I think it is a perfect pairing today,” Mr. Babowicz said to the crowd. “It takes a healthy mind to have a healthy body, and a healthy body to have a healthy mind. Everybody has to work together.”

“We are very fortunate in this community,” Mr. Babowicz said. “We know we just celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Dr. Schuessler providing care here… And we are welcoming another pediatrician, Dr. Spicer. He will be joining us here in Gouverneur in a couple of months. And we are fortunate that Kylie Lansing, PA-C, joined us. We have a nice pediatric team now in the Gouverneur community.”

Kylie Lansing, PA-C, a Utica, NY native and a recent graduate of LeMoyne College, has joined the Community Health Center of the North Country (Gouverneur), and is new to the North Country community. “It is an honor to be with you all today,” she said to the Walk With A Doc in Gouverneur attendees. “I am new to this type of an event. It is very exciting. It is an honor to start my career in such a strong, rural community. I appreciate everyone who has been so welcoming, and I look forward to meeting you all. I was asked to speak about something that we noticed in the past couple of months… just the ER frequency and where you decide to seek care. There are some easy things to remember if you are thinking: “Should I go to the ER or maybe should I go see my primary physician?” Ask yourself: “Is it an emergency?” Emergency clinicians are trained to think in terms of what is going to acutely hurt you or kill you now. If it is not going to hurt or kill you now, then they will do what they can and send you out. There is no follow-up. Think about: “Do I have shortness of breath?” “Do I have chest pains?” “Am I eating okay?” “Am I going to the bathroom okay?” “Am I in significant amount of pain where this needs to be addressed now?” Another thing I would urge you to think about is the cost associated – not just the monetary cost that sometimes comes with these ER visits, but also the health costs that could possibly be there. There is no question in my mind that everyone has experienced some long ER wait times. And in that wait time, sometimes we can be exposed to some bacteria or illnesses that we might not normally be exposed to. And the last thing I would urge you to think about is: “What do I want them to do differently than my primary care provider would?” “What am I seeking out of this visit?” If they wouldn’t do anything differently, then I would urge you to see your primary care provider… because they do know your health history. They do have a relationship with you. You are not just another new patient that you are seeing on the day-to-day. Really build that relationship with your clinician. I think together we can build a healthier, happier future. I am really excited to meet you all, and I’m really excited to be here.”

The Community Health Center of the North Country this past week issued the following announcement: ”2024 was a year of significant change and planning at Community Health Center of the North Country (CHCNC). After a 10 year run at the helm, Anne Richey, CEO, retired in February. This ushered in a new era under Dave Bender, CEO, who joined the team after many years with St. Lawrence Health System. Other changes have come in other roles: Jennie Flanagan joined as Chief Operating Officer, and Alexander Bryden signed on as the new Chief Financial Officer.

“With new people comes new goals, new visions, and new plans to make those visions reality. There is a renewed commitment to the mission of providing comprehensive, equitable and accessible high quality healthcare and human services to people of all income levels and those with individualized needs. In 2025 this will be most noticeably evident with the addition of new providers and expansion of facilities to meet the needs of these new members of the CHCNC team.

“Starting this month you will see the first in a number of Doctors joining, as the team embarks on an extensive expansion of Pediatric Services. This begins with the return to the North Country of Pediatrician Scott Spicer, MD; he joins the pediatric team of Donald Schuessler, MD and Kylie Lansing, PA at the CHCNC location in Gouverneur. This will be followed by two pediatricians joining at the Ogdensburg health center this summer. Future primary care arrivals in 2025 include Family Practice Physicians at both the Canton and Ogdensburg locations with the potential for an additional Doctor in Malone as well. Finally, after an extensive time searching, CHCNC welcomed Sara Elliott, LCSW and Bob Stickels, LCSW-R to the Behavioral health unit at the Canton health center.

“With the growth in providers comes expansion in facilities. To accommodate the new Pediatricians, remodeling will take place at both the Gouverneur and Ogdensburg health centers which will result in nine new pediatric suites being added; this includes six in Ogdensburg and two in Gouverneur.

“Change can be unnerving, but at the same time exciting. The past 12 months have brought both to Community Health Center of the North Country. The one thing that has not changed is the 50-year commitment to serving the North Country communities the team cares for. Everyone is welcome, and most insurances are accepted at the Full Service Family practices in Canton, Gouverneur, Malone, and Ogdensburg. Services include but are not limited to: primary and pediatric care, dental, behavioral health, physical therapy, care management, outreach and enrollment, WIC, and many programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Optometry services are also available at the Arsenal Street center in Watertown.

“Community Health Center of the North Country, one of Northern New York’s premiere independent providers of healthcare services for people of all income levels is part of a national network of community health centers serving over 30 million patients including 300,000 veterans, 1 in 6 Medicaid beneficiaries, nearly 1.2 million homeless, and over 7.5 million children. Join the 2.4 million New Yorkers and over 100,000 people across the North Country entrusting Community Health Centers with their care. Experience, quality, and affordability; that, is the Community Health Center of the North Country experience.”

Thunderous applause sounded in appreciation of the inspirational and motivational addresses. Much gratitude was extended to all the attendees for participating as the walkers headed to the halls at the Gouverneur Middle School for the event. Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that the Gouverneur Central School District’s hall walking program is open to the community during the evening hours. The Middle School is open to walkers on Mondays and Wednesdays from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. The Elementary School is open for walkers on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Please call or stop by either building to fill out an application to participate. For more information, please visit www.gcsk12.org.

Much gratitude is extended to all those who made the Walk With A Doc event in Gouverneur possible. The next event will be held in late-summer at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds. The announcement will be reported in an upcoming edition of the Gouverneur Tribune Press. For more information on Walk With A Doc, visit walkwithadoc.org.

St. Lawrence County’s highway superintendents share concerns with North Country politicians

by Rachel Hunter

The Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center on Jan. 6 opened its doors to Highway Department and Department of Public Works superintendents from across St. Lawrence County.

The meeting was organized by Town of Fowler Highway Superintendent Randy Durham (who serves as president of the St. Lawrence County Highway Superintendents Association). Special invitations were gratefully accepted by NYS Senator (SD 49) Mark Walczyk, NYS Senator (SD 45) Dan Stec, NYS Assemblyman (AD 117) Ken Blankenbush, NYS Assemblyman (AD 116) Scott Gray and their staff personnel. All were invited to ride in a snowplow during the 8 a.m. coffee hour. The showcased equipment was from the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), Town of Fowler, Town of Gouverneur, and the Town of Hermon. The experience gave the political representatives the insight required to better advocate for the needs of the North Country.

All then were invited to enjoy a scrumptious breakfast during the hour-long meeting and Q&A session with the political representatives about funding concerns in the executive budget.

Town of Fowler Highway Superintendent Randy Durham opened the session by asking an update on CHIPS. Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that FY 2025 Executive Budget includes investments to continue road, bridge and safety improvement across New York. A portion of the budget is allocated as follows: $577.8 million in funding for the Consolidated Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS) and the Marchiselli Program, and $100 million for the Pave our Potholes (POP) Program. The FY 2025 executive budget is outlined at governor.ny.gov.

NYS Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush said: “It’s never enough…”

NYS Senator Dan Stec said the following: “It’s not likely at all that they will ever cut it. But I know a lot of people make the drive all the way to Albany every year. Every time I talk with the highway superintendents, I thank them for doing that. It seems odd to me that government has to panhandle to government to do something as basic as paving roads. But I’ll tell you this: The first year that you take the foot off the gas, that’s when we start looking at cuts. You have to keep advocating. You are well-received. It is a non-partisan issue. That’s good.

“The geographic divide… The NYC folks I don’t think necessarily understand the function and the nature of the highway departments upstate as much as we all do. It is a non-partisan issue. The nice thing about it is that the formula is fair. It’s a non-political formula… So the only thing you really have to worry about is arguing how big of the pie is for CHIPS. There is a fairness to it where you don’t have Democrat-run communities getting more funding than Republican. None of that. Everyone likes the formula. So really, it is a simple discussion: “How much can we put in there?” And that’s when you coming to Albany and knocking on doors helps. This time of year, the governor has already put together her budget. We will have to see what that is in a couple weeks. So, her work is done. I always tell everyone who is advocating for stuff that is in the budget… You want to make as many bites in that apple as you can. That means, start at the executive and start early. In the late summer/early fall, as a group, highway superintendents should be lobbying the governor for more, arguing with her first, and try to get her number up. And then obviously react to her number, and come in like you do in the winter, and talk to us. But like I said, the good news is that this is one area of Albany where it is not partisan at all. And everybody likes the highway department. Is it going to go up? I hope so. I know we all do… It has been easier to vote against the budget in the past few years, under one-party rule, because the priorities are off.

“The media will ask: “Is there anything in the budget that is good?” For crying out loud, at $239 billion, there better be a lot of good stuff in the budget. There’s a lot of good stuff in the budget, but is that the right number? No, it is too high. So then it is about priorities. I won’t make political speeches, but you guys read the news. You know where some of our money is going. It is $2.5 billion to NYC for one project that is questionable in nature. (That funding) would go a long ways to up CHIPS funding. It would go a long ways to fixing the Medicare reimbursement for nursing homes… We all drive the roads, every one of us – Republican and Democrat, rich and poor, working and retired, school buses… It’s an easy argument to push for more, and we will. But we always need your help.”

NYS Assemblyman Gray then said: “I think he said it best, like he always does… I would just like to say that last year they proposed a cut. The opposite party from us, they pat themselves on the back… When you go into Albany, make sure you advocate… and don’t settle for restoration.”

NYS Assemblyman Blankenbush then said: “There’s always a tougher fight in the Assembly than it is in the Senate. There 150 of us in the Assembly. When you have 60-some of those coming from NYC out of 150… Like Dan said, when you take a look at the upstate areas, the Republican and Democrats are pretty much in line with helping with CHIPS funding. But in the Assembly, we have that group of people who think the MTA is more important than our roads. And you know, that is the fight that we have when we are trying to get this budget through, and increasing the budget for CHIPS funding. That’s the fight we’ve had every since I’ve been down there. But they will spend a lot of money on that MTA. Back in the day of Governor Cuomo, they passed a bill that said that if the MTA had a percentage increase one year, then the same percentage increase would go for CHIPS. Then, when Andrew Cuomo became the governor, he did away with that bill. Trying to get that back is always the battle in the Assembly. We do that every year. Every year, you’ll find out that they’ll show you a decrease in CHIPS funding. By the time April 1 comes around, you’ll get it back up… But that’s our fight in the Assembly compared to the Senate.”

NYS Senator Walczyk said: “Know that from the North Country you have an alliance here that is right on board. Infrastructure matters. We understand what you are going through in town barns. We will support you in whatever way we can. As Ken pointed out, it would be great to get some parity and policy in headlines about the MTA and the mess down there, and all the silly things that the governor is trying to do to bail out the MTA. You all are the exact opposite than that. You are an efficiently run system. You share services exactly where it makes sense to. You go on your own, and you figure it out with really small staffs in the most efficient way possible. When we increase funding in CHIPS, we know that it is going to smart money. It is going to be about… Do we buy that with cash? Do we finance it? Can we leverage for this? How do we reduce the tax rate for our town? It is the opposite when you fund the MTA. They just look to have more contracts for political pay-off in NYC, and they continue to waste more and more money. So, this is smart money. As Senator Stec put it, there’s a lot of good. CHIPS is definitely part of the good in the New York State budget. We will do all that we can to support you.”

Senator Stec then said the following: “I want to thank and encourage y’all. The inter-municipal cooperation when we have emergencies and storms that hit… I know you have your own budgets to worry about. There are turf wars… It could easily become: “Good luck. You do you.” But I’ve never seen that with the highway departments. You guys have been good to each other, and I think the public sees and appreciates that. When it hits the fan and you are dealing with Mother Nature stuff, and you lend your hand to a neighboring town, that’s wonderful. I think it is a good-news story. You have a $65 billion capital plan for the MTA, and the MTA is the worst managed, corrupt entities in the state – very inefficient. Then, you throw into it the bad politics of congestion pricing to pay for it, which is just an increase in taxes in what is already the most-taxed state. You compare favorably to that. It is easy for us to say, “Hey, whatever you do for the MTA…” They worry about mass transit, and that’s all they focus on. Our job is to make sure that we are fighting to make sure you guys are getting more. We all want to increase CHIPS. Like Mark said, it is one of the high points, and it is defendable because it is the formula. It is not hand-waving and magic numbers. It is a formula that is tested, and makes sense. No one is complaining about the formula. The only thing is, how big is the pie? Any time I talk to highway folks about storms… track your time, track everything. We need to hit those emergency thresholds. If you don’t have those numbers, you can’t get reimbursed. Any time it starts, start tracking.”

There was no further questions on CHIPS. Other topics discussed include the following: Tier 6, recruitment and retention of employees, training, storm damage recovery, and much more.

The highway superintendents across St. Lawrence County were encouraged to attend Advocacy Day in Albany this March 2025. On that topic, Assemblyman Blankenbush said the following: “That matters. Everybody, even from NYC, knows when you guys are down there… and it really does get people to zero in on what we are trying to do. Don’t think that you are traveling to Albany, and that it doesn’t work. Because it does work. I want to encourage you to keep doing that.”

The St. Lawrence County Highway Superintendents Association plans to hold future trainings and meetings to benefit the municipal departments. Much gratitude was extended to Dave Spilman, Jr. and the Gouverneur Community Center for the use of the facility. A 50-50 raffle was conducted, and all funds donated were given in support of the work of the Gouverneur Community Center, which is made possible thanks to a collaboration between the Town of Gouverneur and the Village of Gouverneur. For more information, visit gouverneurcommunitycenter.com.

Partnering In Your Care Event is Jan. 29 in Gouverneur

You may have heard the term ‘partnering in your care,’ but are not really sure what it entails. Rochester Regional Health’s St. Lawrence Region is hosting discussion sessions to better explain what it means and how it can benefit you as a patient or community member.

The Partnering in Your Care model of healthcare was designed to give patients, their loved ones, and their proxies autonomy to be as proactive and engaged as possible in sustainable quality care; regardless of whether it’s at home, a hospital, or a long-term care facility. From lifestyle and nutrition choices to preventing and managing chronic diseases, individuals have more control over their health than they may realize.

The public is invited to attend the upcoming Partnering In Your Care educational event this month where the concept of ‘Partnering’ will be discussed and explained. The same content will be shared at three different locations to ensure everyone has access to a live session close to home.

Please RSVP for one of the following free educational sessions which all begin at 10 am: Wednesday, January 29 in the Community Room at Gouverneur Hospital, 77 West Barney Street, Gouverneur.
Thursday, January 30 in Conference Room A/B at Canton-Potsdam Hospital, 50 Leroy Street, Potsdam.
Friday, January 31 in the Board Room at Massena Hospital, 1 Hospital Drive, Massena.

Additionally, future discussions are being planned throughout 2025 as part of the full Partnering In Your Care education series and will include topics that support healthy living that were requested by patients and community members alike.

“Patient and family engagement are crucial aspects of healthcare. This level of participation involves creating conditions where patients, their family members, care partners, providers, and hospital staff work together as partners to improve the quality and safety of care,” noted St. Lawrence Director of Quality and Regulatory Affairs Jackie Scanlon.

“Through this collaborative partnership, community members can expect to have improved patient experiences and outcomes. By attending our community events, we hope our patients and local residents will gain a better understanding on what services we have for them, and how we are here to assist them,” Director Scanlon said.

Future Partnering In Your Care events will include providers and specialists in their fields discussing a variety of programs that focus on health and well-being and provide clarity around healthcare terms and requirements. This includes: Advanced Directives, Behavioral Health, Cardiology and Pulmonology, [Being a] Care Partner, Fall Prevention in the Home, Imaging, Infection Prevention, Medication Safety, Nutrition, Patient-Centered Medical Home model of care, Pathway to Excellence and Magnet nursing designations, Quality and Patient Safety, including the MyCare patient portal, Rehabilitation Therapy/Physical Therapy, Sleep Disorders, Stroke, Substance Use Disorders, [New] Technology, Trauma, Wound Care. The St. Lawrence Region is looking forward to sharing further information with the public on all of its upcoming Partnering In Your Care sessions.

To register for one of the January programs, please share your name, phone number, and indicate which location/date you will be attending by calling (and leaving a message) at 315-261-5413, or emailing corporatecommunications@rochesterregional.org. Please RSVP by Friday, January 24.

Gouverneur Rec Center helps local youths ring in the new year

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Recreation Center held a Winter Recess Pajama Party and New Year’s Celebration for local youth on Dec. 30-31.

Civilizations around the world have been celebrating the start of each new year for millennia. Today, most New Year’s festivities begin on December 31 (New Year’s Eve) and continue into the early hours of January 1 (New Year’s Day). Common traditions include attending parties, eating special New Year’s foods, making resolutions for the new year and watching fireworks displays. Many Americans on New Year’s Eve watch the ball drop on Dec. 31 in New York City. The 2025 New Year’s Eve Ball is a geodesic sphere, 12 feet in diameter, and weighs 11,875 pounds. The Ball is covered with a total of 2,688 crystal triangles that vary in size, and range in length from 4 3/4 inches to 5 3/4 inches per side. For Times Square 2025, all 2,688 crystal triangles that adorn the Ball are manufactured by Gillinder Glass, a New York-based manufacturer, and replaced for this New Year’s Eve celebration. For adults, there were New Year’s parties all over the North Country… but events for children were limited.

The Gouverneur Recreation Center, located on Trinity Ave., Gouverneur, was once again the place for area children to be in the days leading up to the holiday. Crafts, coloring, and more fun were the order of the day. Children donned pajamas and enjoyed the festivities. Much gratitude is extended to all those who made the School Winter Recess Pajama Party (Dec. 30) and New Year’s Bash (Dec. 31) events a success.

The Gouverneur Recreation Center will continue its programming for local youth and senior citizens in 2025.

The Gouverneur Recreation Center’s After-School Program (STEAM Studio) focuses on enhancing youths learning in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math. Students in Grades UPK to Grade 1 enjoy sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Students in Grades 2-4 enjoy sessions on Monday and Wednesday. Bus transportation is provided by the Gouverneur Central School District. The program features interactive social play, recreational opportunities exploring the STEAM field, theme days, and guests with fine arts appreciation.

The Before-School Morning Program continues to meet weekdays at the Gouverneur Elementary School. In partnership with the Gouverneur CSD, the enrichment program features early morning wake-up activities, interactive social play, arts and crafts, and breakfast.

Toddler Town meets Tuesday and Thursday mornings at the Gouverneur Recreation Center. The recreational pre-school playgroup program features: interactive socialization and active play, music and art, story and snack.

The Gouverneur Recreation Center’s Senior Citizen Program continues weekly on Friday mornings for a bingo and coffee social. The event features food bingo games with socialization.

For more information about the Gouverneur Recreation Center, call 315-287-0524.

Public invited to Walk With A Doc on Jan. 18 in Gouverneur

by Rachel Hunter

Walk With A Doc in Gouverneur will return to the Gouverneur Middle School on Saturday, January 18, 2025, 10 a.m., at 25 Wilson St., Gouverneur. All North Country residents are invited to join a variety of St. Lawrence County healthcare providers for a free, fun walk. This event is open to all and is for people of all abilities.

There is great anticipation for the first Walk With A Doc in Gouverneur of the 2025 year. Walk With A Doc in Gouverneur is made possible thanks to the Community Health Center of the North Country, St. Lawrence County Public Health Department, and a Bridge To Wellness: St. Lawrence County Health Improvement Plan.

Walk With a Doc is a local chapter of an international 501(c)3 that is inspiring communities through movement and conversation. With an aim to make hope and health accessible to everyone around the world, the doctor-led walking groups are safe, fun and a free place to get in some steps, learn about health, and meet new friends.

Walk With A Doc was started in 2005 by Dr. David Sabgir, a cardiologist in Columbus, Ohio. Frustrated with his inability to affect behavior change in the clinical setting, Dr. Sabgir invited his patients to go for a walk with him in a local park on a spring Saturday morning. To his surprise, over 100 people showed up, energized and ready to move.

Since that first event in 2005, Walk with a Doc has grown as a grassroots effort with a model based on sustainability and simplicity. A doctor gives a brief presentation on a health topic and then leads participants on a walk at their own pace. In 2009, Walk With A Doc became an official 501(c)(3) and added an Executive Director with a focus on building a program that could easily be implemented by interested doctors in other cities around the country. As a result of these efforts, the reach of Walk with a Doc now extends all around the globe with over 500 chapters worldwide, including Walk with a FUTURE Doc chapters led by medical students.

Walking was recognized by the Surgeon General of the United States of America as one of the single most important things we can do for our health. Now, as we usher in 2025, is the time to join the movement in making health and happiness accessible for all.

Walk With A Doc has released a list of 100 reasons why walking is important, and it can be viewed online at walkwithadoc.org. Did you know that walking is one of the best things you can do for your health? Many diseases, conditions, and ailments can be prevented or even healed by participating in regular physical activity. Fortunately, even moderate-intensity aerobic activity such as walking can provide these health benefits. All are welcome to join Walk With A Doc in Gouverneur on Saturday, January 18, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., at the Gouverneur Middle School to learn about the importance of physical activity, and to participate in a free, fun walk right here in the Gouverneur community.

For more information about Walk With A Doc, visit walkwithadoc.org.

Free To The Community: Over 400 Christmas Ham Dinners served at First UMC Gouverneur

by Rachel Hunter

The Free To The Community Christmas Dinner, hosted by the First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur and sponsored by the Friday Lunch Program, was held on Monday, December 23 at 34 Grove St., Gouverneur.

The Free To the Community Christmas Dinner has become an annual tradition for local families. The mouthwatering scent of Christmas ham, green beans, baked potatoes and desserts wafted through the fellowship hall at First UMC Gouverneur as a well-oiled team of volunteers prepared and served the holiday meal. By 4 p.m., dinners were already going out to eager community residents via curbside delivery.

One such North Country resident, who wishes to remain anonymous, told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that their family would not have had the opportunity to eat a hearty meal during the Christmas holiday if it were not for generosity shown at the Free To The Community Christmas Dinner. Other local residents told the Gouverneur Tribune Press said that the food received at the First UMC Gouverneur and local food pantries during the holiday season allowed them to pay their electrical bill, fuel oil, and/or rent. The North Country is reminded that local residents facing hunger are urged to take advantage of the First UMC Gouverneur’s Blessing Box Program, available 24/7 outside the church at 34 Grove St., Gouverneur. Donations for the food program are always gratefully accepted.

The First UMC Gouverneur’s Free To The Community Thanksgiving and Christmas Dinners are always well-received by the North Country community, and much appreciation is extended for their generosity and support of local residents during the holiday season. For more information, call the church office at 315-287-2440.

Town, Village host holiday party

by Rachel Hunter

The Town of Gouverneur and the Village of Gouverneur hosted a holiday celebration for their employees and families at the Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center on Dec. 21.

Did you know? Holiday parties in the U.S. have a long history. Christmas was declared a federal holiday in the United States on June 26, 1870. The tradition of holiday parties began in the 1930s during the Great Depression. The Town of Gouverneur and Village of Gouverneur host their annual holiday party in appreciation of their employees, and in celebration of the continued shared municipal services and working partnership between the Town of Gouverneur and Village of Gouverneur. The annual tradition of the Town/Village Holiday Party was stymied during the years of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, and was canceled in 2023 due to the uptick in local cases. But nothing squelched the Christmas spirit at the 2024 Town/Village Holiday Celebration.

With a sparkle in their eyes, Village/Town employees and their families started arriving at about 5 p.m. for the cocktail hour. Big smiles were on the faces of the town and village employees and their families as they walked into the Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center, noted the ornately decorated rooms and festive atmosphere, and enjoyed the fun and fellowship.

At 6 p.m., all were warmly welcomed by Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr. and Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall. All were invited to eat at the scrumptious holiday buffet. The tables were filled with Christmas ham, prime rib, poultry, pasta and meatballs, alongside many side dishes and desserts. Much appreciation was extended to all those who contributed towards the meal’s success.

At about 7 p.m., the party received a special visitor – straight from the North Pole. Jolly Old St. Nick arrived with “Merry Christmas” greetings for all, and invited all children (and adults) to visit with him at the foot of the Gouverneur Community Center’s large Christmas tree. In only moments, the children ran up to the legendary character and shared their Christmas wishes. They were followed by several adults who carried a high level of the holiday spirit in their hearts. Special holiday treats were distributed by a helper elf, Corryn Canell of Gouverneur.

Santa Claus was welcomed by Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr. and Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall, and was given a standing invitation to attend the Town/Village Holiday Celebration in future years.

Sleigh bells could be heard in the distance as Santa Claus gave his final farewells and headed back to the North Pole to prepare for his Christmas Eve deliveries to North Country children.

Town of Gouverneur Deputy Supervisor Jay Bowhall, Town Clerk Marion Bowhall and their family also distributed “Grinch dust” (colored sugar) to the local families. The annual tradition is known to help keep the magic of Christmas in the air during the holiday season.

Local dignitaries in attendance at the event included the following: Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr., Town of Gouverneur Deputy Supervisor Jay Bowhall, Town of Gouverneur Councilman Curran Wade, Town of Gouverneur Councilman William Infield, Gouverneur Town Clerk Marion Bowhall, Gouverneur Town Bookkeeper Diane Kelley, Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall and Former NYS Assemblywoman Dede Scozzafava, newly elected Gouverneur Town Justice Frederick E. Scozzafava, Village of Gouverneur Trustee Floyd McAdam, Gouverneur Code Enforcement Officer Rick Wood, Gouverneur Dog Control Officer Dan Moyer, Town of Gouverneur Highway Dept. Supt. Michael Wainwright and staff, Gouverneur Recreation Department Director Casey Canell, among others.

There were many wishes for a “Merry Christmas” and a “Happy New Year” alongside “Happy Holidays” at the event’s conclusion. Anticipation is high for the 2025 Town/Village Holiday Celebration. For more information on the Town of Gouverneur, call 315-287-2340. For more information on the Village of Gouverneur, call 315-287-1720.

Gouverneur-area youths pen letters to Santa Claus

by Rachel Hunter

Continuing a century-old tradition, the Gouverneur Tribune Press is once again opening its pages to publish the Christmas wishes from Gouverneur-area children in advance of the Christmas holiday. The messages below are delivered to the North Pole before Santa Claus’ sleigh is packed full of gifts for the good boys and girls around the world. The “One and Only Gouverneur, NY” has hundreds of children eagerly anticipating Christmas morning, with a hopeful glance for a special treat from Jolly Old St. Nick.

The messages were received from the Gouverneur Elementary School are transcribed as follows:

Dear Santa, my name is Isaac. I would like gumball. I have been nice. I will leave milk and cookies out for you. Love, Isaac.

Dear Santa, my name is Bailey. I have been nice. I need stuff to keep me warm. I need a cup to drink out of the cup. I need dolls. I want a stuffed dog. I will give you cookies and milk, Love, Bailey.

Dear Santa, my name is Hudson. I have been nice this year. I want a sled. I need a blanket to keep me warm. I will leave you cookies. Love, Hudson.

Dear Santa, my name is Landon. I have been very good this year. I hope you bring me Power Rangers, a phone/tablet and paper to color. I’ll set out cookies. Love, Landon.

Dear Santa, I love you. I need new pants, shirts, and shoes. I would love a Barbie. I need a book. Love, Raelynn.

Dear Santa, my name is Mia. I have been nice! I want a car from Christmas. I will leave cookies out for you! Love, Mia.

Dear Santa, my name is Caleb. I have been a little naughty and nice. I want a stuffed dinosaur. I need underwear. I will leave cookies and milk. Love, Caleb.

Dear Santa, my name is Maverick. I want toys. I need a hat. I will leave cookies and milk for you. Love, Maverick.

Dear Santa, my name is Zoey. I have been nice this year. I am wishing for makeup. I need mittens. I love you, Santa. Thank you for presents. Love, Zoey.

Dear Santa Claus, I know that you have been working hard. I hope everyone has a good Christmas. My family and me watch you on TV. I have been good this year. I really want to have the Meta Quest XR headset. I helped my mom. I take out the trash for my mom. I helped my dad to cut a tree and load up wood. I hope you have a jolly, merry Christmas. From Grayson.

Dear Santa, I have been good this year. My report card was good. When I accidentally tripped them, I said: “Are you okay?” and helped them up. I hope I did not get too naughty. I hope you have time to read this letter. If I’m not too bad, I want a giraffe plushie. From Braden.

Dear Santa, I have been very good. Santa, I want a dirt bike and phone. I want a North Pole elf. From Dezden.

Dear Santa Claus, I have been very good this year, so I hope you will see my Christmas list. I have helped my family a lot. I would like a McLaren Lamborghini, an iPhone 16, a PS5, a 100-inch TV, and action figure. From, Luca.

Dear Santa, I’ve been very good this year. I helped my mom do the dishes and I cleaned the house. I did something when nobody told me to do that. That’s why I’ve been good. I want a PS5 and a tracker, Nerf guns, and new shoes and a phone. From, Rhett.

Dear Santa, I have been very good this year. My report card was very good. I hope you give me some presents this year. I am so that you got me some presents last year. From, Kaylee.

Dear Santa, I am really good at school. I was nice to my family and my friends. If you don’t mind, please get me a blue squishmallow that is an owl. I hope you have a good Christas. You are nice to get me an elf of the shelf, Noah, last Christmas at my dad’s. Madelyn.

Dear Santa Claus, I have been the best I can be in school. I’ve been good at home. I helped my mom because she was in the hospital. I helped my mom with the dishes and I did all my chores. I’ve been so good this year. I got ten bucks. I know you are busy at the North Pole, but can you please give me Mini Brands 5? I hope you have a good Christmas. From, Benjamin.

Dear Santa Claus, I’ve been very good this year. I hope you take time to read this letter. I always help my mom at home. I really like my family. They are really nice. In the winter, I shovel the driveway for my parents. What I want for Christmas are slime kits. Love, Adalyn.

Dear Santa Claus, I think that I have been good by cleaning my house, and on my report card I got all 3s and 4s. I love Santa Claus because he gives me presents. Can I have a Xbox game and a $50 gift card please? Can I have the PlayStation 4 please? There are the reasons why I like Santa Claus. Love, Logan.

Dear Santa, I have been very good this year because I have been good by helping my mom and my sisters. I have been saying please, thank you, and you’re welcome. So, can I please get some presents? I want a hoverboard that’s blue and a phone, please. Love, Jryden.

Dear Santa, I have been good and my report card was very good. I would love a set of pens, chocolates and new bed sheets. Thank you, Aubrey.

Dear Santa, I have been very, very good because I have helped with decorating the tree, being a good friend, and I helped pick out a color for mommy’s nails. My report card was good. If it is not too much trouble, I want a sleeping mask, cute revel, and a new Barbie house. I hope you have a holly, jolly Christmas. From, Wren.

Dear Santa, in my opinion, I think I have been very good because I stick up for my friends and have been good in school. So, if you are not too busy this year, I want an iPhone, a puppy, kitten, and horse that has hair on the hooves. For the iPhone, I want a stitch and angel phone case. Can Snowflake stay for Christmas and my birthday? From, Hadley.

Dear Santa, I have been very good this year in third grade. I am nice to my friends. I would like to have a good Christmas this year with my family. I would like to go safely driving to my grandma’s house this year. I know you are busy. Thank you for everything. Love, Lanie.

Dear Santa, I have been okay this year. Would you please bring me a bike? Love, Liam.

Dear Santa, I have very good this year. Would you please bring me an Elsa microphone? Love, Celena.

Dear Santa, I have been good. Would you please bring me a Spiderman walkie-talkie? Love, Malex

Dear Santa, I have been good this year. Please bring me the three ruins? Love, Brenner.

Dear Santa, I have been good this year. Would you please bring me press-on nails? Love, Reya.

Dear Santa, I have been okay this year. Would you please bring me a Mickey Mouse walkie-talkie? Love, Brady.

Dear Santa, I have been good this year. Would you please bring me a stuffed animal? Love, Lilliana.

Dear Santa, I have been okay this year. Would you please bring me a Hulk skateboard? Love, Charly.

Dear Santa, I have been good this year. Would you please bring me a remote control Monster truck? Love, Leeum.

Dear Santa, Are you okay? Please a snowflake walkie-talkie? Love Kathryn

Dear Santa, I have been okay this year. Would you please get me a remote control trucks. Love, Easton.

Dear Santa, I have been okay this year. Would you please bring me a watch? Love, Myles.

Dear Santa, I have been okay. Would you please bring me a skateboard. Love, Denver.

Dear Santa, This year I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: clean my room. I would love for you to bring me a drumset, monster truck, and a bird that talks. Love, Stihl Keith.

Dear Santa, This year I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: I shared the kitchen set. I would love for you to bring me a kitchen set like Mrs. LaShomb’s, camera, and swingset. Love. Levi.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: clean my dishes. I would love for you to bring me: coconut, snowglobe. Love, Magdalena.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: I gave Novah a hug when she was sad. I would love for you to bring me: kitchen set. Love, Aubrey.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: I took care of the puppies. I would love for you to bring me makeup and a Barbie doll. Love, Karlie.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: I shared my books. I would love for you to bring me: unicorn, Barbies, baby doll. Love, Novah.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: I helped Daddy cook mac and cheese. I would love for you to bring me: marble run toy, Lego’s, matchbook cars. Love, Luke.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: be good. I would love for you to bring me: monkey and candy gun. Love, Hudson.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: I left cookies. I would love for you to bring me: Lego’s and Spiderman. Love, Grayson.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. I would love for you to bring me: Barbie dolls, Barbie car, and balloon. Love, Ellyanna.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: pick up the toys in my classroom. I would love for you to bring me: princess. Love, Noa.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: playing with my sister. I would love for you to bring me: Peppa Pig toy, Christmas book. Love, Landon.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: helping mommy clean up. I would love for you to bring me Barbie House, Barbie dolls, gabby gabby house, and fluffy blanket. Love, Brinley.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: I helped my sister get out of the Pack N Play. I would love for you to bring me: Nike hat (blue), clothes, and a fire truck. Love, Thomas.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: I shared my books with Mrs. LaShomb. I would love for you to bring me: a baby, markers, and a rubber dog. Love, Lindley.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: feed the animals. I would love for you to bring me: Barbie dolls, Baby dolls, pants (pajama ones). Love, Stella.

Dear Santa, I was okay this year. I helped bring the dog out. I am asking for a new PS5 and a new critters. I will leave you sugar cookies and milk. Love, Gauge.

Dear Santa, I was okay this year. I helped my mom do the dishes. I am asking for a little live pet dog. I will leave you sugar cookies and carrots. Love, Makenna.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped my cousin learn how to count by tens. I am asking for books, and a golden retriever – a toy one is good too. I will leave you sugar cookies and milk. Love, Kenya.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped my mom not yell at me. I am asking for 1000 V-Bucks and a candy cane. I will leave you chocolate chip cookies and milk. From, Jayce.

Dear Santa, I was okay this year. I helped my baby brother. I will leave you cookies and milk. I am asking for toy race cards, pink slime, and dollars. Love, Hailey.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped my brother. He was sent to the hospital. I am asking for platform UGGs (size 3), skincare, iPad, and pink Stanley. I will leave you sugar cookies and milk. I love you, Santa. From Payton.

Dear Santa, I was okay this year. I helped take out the trash. I am asking for Play-Doh and a pair of Nikes, car, and a PlayStation5. I will leave you a cookie with sugar. Love, Xavier.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped my mom do dishes. I am asking for a cat squishmallow… I will leave you chocolate chip cookies and milk. Love, Scarlett

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped my mom and dad clean. I am asking for new WWE toys, plushies, toy cars, Minion fart spray toy gun, monster toy and Mr. Beast toy. I will leave you chocolate chip cookies and milk. Love, Liam.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped my mom do the dishes. I am asking for a Barbie. I will leave you milk and cookies. Love, Jaelynn.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped with the decorations. I am asking for marbles. I will leave you cookies and carrots. Love, Charlotte.

Dear Santa, I was a little naughty and nice. I helped my mom wash dishes. I am asking for a dog this year. I will leave you milk and cookies and carrots for their reindeer. Love, Stacey.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped mom do the dishes. I am asking for a toy car. I will leave you a note on Christmas. Angler

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped my mom do the dishes. I am asking for Flash. I will leave you new glasses. I love you, Noelle.

Dear Santa, I was a little bad this year. I helped mommy find Mrs. Palmer in the cafeteria. I am asking for a real kitten because I want to have a friend. I will leave you milk. Love, Jenna.

Dear Santa, I was a little bad this year. I helped Mom get garage boxes sometimes. I am asking for a bakery, kitten and makeup. I will leave you cookies and milk, and carrots for your deer. Love, Jade.

Dear Santa. I was good this year. I helped Mommy bring in the groceries. I am asking for one million crayons. I will leave you cookies and milk. Love, Kasten.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped mom and dad. I am asking for V-Bucks. I will leave you a present. Love, Dauntae.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped dad mow the lawn. I am asking for a PS5. I will leave you cookies. Love, Garrison.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped mom to decorate the Christmas tree. I am asking for a Barbie doll. I will leave you cookies and milk. Love, Freya.

Dear Santa, I was okay this year. I helped Boppy feed the fish. I am asking for a Squishmallow. I will leave you a present. Love, Margot.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped feed the dog and cat. I am asking for a remote-controlled car in green. I will leave you cookies, carrots and milk. Love, Walker.

Dear Santa, I was good thus year. I helped dad with the lights. I am asking for a Barbie. I will leave you milk. Love, Riley.

Dear Santa, How are you doing? How are the reindeer? How is Snowball doing? Hey, Santa, can I have DS card. I hope your holiday is fun! From, Luca.

Dear Santa, I hope you are having a good time at the North Pole! I wish to get a blanket hoodie! I also wish for a puppy, please! My dog needs a friend. I also want a hamster, pretty please. I also want a Christmas without me and my sister arguing! From, Brinley.

Dear Santa, how are you? For Christmas, I would like a Lego battlefield. I would like a Robo DCS Pikachu. I would also like little Pokemon mini figures. How are your elves? From Michael.

Dear Santa, Are you going to have a good day today? I hope you do! This is my wishlist: Android phone, a bike, and a guinea pig. Those are my wishes. Make sure to drop it at the right house. I hope you have a wonderful day. From, Aydin.

Dear Santa Claus, I hope you’re doing okay at the North Pole this year. This year, for Christmas, I want Lego’s and right now in December, an elf for the next year and Pokemon cards. If you’re too busy, it’s okay if I don’t get any presents and it is okay if I get coal for Christmas. From, Jackson. Have a Happy New Year!

Dear Santa, how are you doing? I can’t wait for Christmas! Are you okay? Can I get a kitten, please? Can I get a guinea pig, please? Can I get an elf for the year, please? Have a happy New Year! From, Joey.

Dear Santa, How is the North Pole? I bet you love it there. Here is my Christmas list: Can I have a bike, please? A hoodie blanket, please. Can I also have some leggings, please? I hope you have a jolly Christmas. I hope the elves are working hard. From, Ava.

Dear Santa, I hope you have a great Christmas. I love adding joy to Christmas. Christmas is my favorite holiday. Santa, I hope you have a great Christmas Day. I hope the elves are working hard. I love getting together on Christmas with my family. Christmas is a happy holiday. Christmas is a joyful day. From, Evelyn.

Dear Santa, How are you doing this year? For Christmas, I want slime, please. I also want more Lego’s. How do you go to every home in the world in one night?! Have a jolly Christmas. From, Mia.

Dear Santa, I wish for a new bike. I wish for a new phone. I wish for new lipstick. I wish for new lights…

Dear Santa, I’m wondering what it is like in the North Pole. Do the elves look like my elf, Rosie, but moving? Do you use the toy machines or do the elves make them by hand, or do you buy them? And how do you reward the elves? Those are some questions, I hope you have a merry Christmas. From, Leighton.

Dear Santa, How are you doing? Here is my wish list: Butter and Cloud Peachie Babies Slime (Purple), a hamster, an Xbox, and hoodie blanket. Hope you have a jolly holiday season. From, Cora.

Dear Santa, I wish for some ameye gips please. I also want some Air Jordans please in blue. Also I a hoodie blanket. Also I want a big, big water bottle please. Also tell Rudolph I said “hi.” From, Jackstin.

Dear Santa, my name is Kiahi. I am 5 years old. This year I have been nice. There are three things I am wishing for: skateboard, cat and dog (stuffed one). I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From Kiahi.

Dear Santa, my name is Jade. I am 6 years old. This year I have been nice. These are three things I am wishing for: Barbie, Skateboard, toy car that I can ride in. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Jade.

Dear Santa, my name is Lula. I am 5 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are three things I am wishing for: skateboard, hoverboard, and a real cat. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Lula.

Dear Santa, my name is Izzie. I am 6 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are three things, I am wishing for: tiny Christmas tree, camera, and kitten. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Izzie.

Dear Santa, my name is Brayden. I am 5 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are three things I am wishing for: boots, RC car, and hoverboard. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Brayden.

Dear Santa, my name is Raiden. I am 5 years old. I have been nice. These are three things I am wishing for: race car, big trucks, and fire truck. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Raiden.

Dear Santa, my name is Autumn. I am 6 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are three things I am wishing for: camera, cat, and mystery gift. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. Love, Autumn.

Dear Santa, my name is Everly. I am 5 years old. Thus year, I have been nice. These are three things I am wishing for: bells, markers, and Hot Wheels race track. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Everly.

Dear Santa, my name is Declan. I am 6 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are three things I am wishing for: hoverboard, Pokemon stuffies, toy car. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Declan.

Dear Santa, my name is August. I am 6 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are three things I am wishing for: Spiderman, necklace for Mom, and gumball machine. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, August.

Dear Santa, my name is Mikey. I am 5 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are things I am wishing for: Army guy, Siren Head, and castle. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Mikey.

Dear Santa, my name is Aurora. I am 5 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are three things I am wishing for: axolotl, Moana sword, and shark race track. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Aurora.

Dear Santa, my name is Harper. I am 5 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are things I am wishing for: video game controller, puppy, and cow. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Harper.

Dear Santa, my name is Azariah. I am 6 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are three things I am wishing for: doll, heart ring, Christmas tree and presents. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Azariah.

Dear Santa, my name is Colby. I am 6 years old. This year, I have been nice. I am wishing for Power Rangers. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Colby.

Dear Santa, my name is Liam. I am 6 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are things I am wishing for: Spiderman, spider-web shooter, and Spiderman mask. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Liam.

This Is Christmas: Gouverneur Community Chorus performs cantata

by Rachel Hunter

The triumphant sounds of the holiday season thrilled the North Country community at the Gouverneur Community Chorus Christmas Concert on Sunday, December 15 at the First Presbyterian Church of Gouverneur.

A word of welcome was given by Gouverneur Community Chorus Conductor Paul Buell of Gouverneur, and an opening prayer of blessing was given by the Rev. Carrie Demers of the First Presbyterian Church of Gouverneur.

The concert opened with performances from the North Country Brass, which has had several performances in Gouverneur over the years. Mr. Buell introduced the group and said the following: “The North Country Brass provides some really strong brass music,” Mr. Buell said. “Brass instruments to me are at the heart of really good Christmas music because they are up and cheerful, and very bright. There’s no greater season in the world than the Christmas season.” Among the selections performed were “Silent Night” and “O Come, All Ye Faithful.” Thunderous applause sounded in appreciation of the special musical selections.

All then were treated to a powerful acapella vocal performance of “Sweet Little Jesus Child” from Kathleen Buell of Gouverneur. Thunderous applause sounded in appreciation of the classic holiday selection.

The Riverside Brass Quartet featured Paul Buell of Gouverneur (trumpet), Andrew Crecco (trombone), Glenn Roberts (trumpet), and Peter Popiel (tuba). The quartet performed “Rondeau” by Mouret, “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” by Runyan, “And The Glory of the Lord” from Handel’s Messiah, “Three Christmas Chorales” by Sheidt, and “Chorale and Fugue” by Bach. Thunderous applause sounded in appreciation of the classical, hymn and carol selections.

The Gouverneur Community Chorus then performed the cantata, “This Is Christmas,” by Mary McDonald. The Gouverneur Community Chorus formed about eight weeks ago, and has been practicing weekly for the auspicious occasion. The Gouverneur Community Chorus is conducted by Paul Buell of Gouverneur, and accompanied by Kathleen Buell of Gouverneur (organist) and Beth Johnson of Gouverneur (pianist). The vocalists included: Corey Brock, Karen Brungard, Jamie D’Addario, Carrie Demers, Brandon Griffin, Paige McCrea, Jackson Ritchie, Lori Ritchie, Rachel Schroeder, Don Schuessler, Glenda Schuessler, Dede Scozzafava, Marla Shampine, Susie Spilman, and Gail Thomas.  In this cantata, the story of Christmas was told through familiar carols, inspired original melodies, and thoughtful narration. The cantata was expertly narrated by Carol Amberg of Gouverneur. The cantata included nine musical selections: “This Is Christmas Love,” “Rejoice! Emannuel,” “He Shall Be Called” (Featuring Soloists Dede Scozzafava, Rachel Schroeder, Jamie D’Addario, and Corey Brock), “Glory Shone Around,” “He Is Born, The Holy Child,” “Sleep In Peace Tonight,” “This Is The Child, This Is The King,” “Repeat The Sounding Joy,” and “This Is Christmas Love (Reprise).” Thunderous applause sounded in appreciation of the Gouverneur Community Chorus’ talented cantata performance.

“What a great job they did,” Mr. Buell said. “I am so proud of what they were able to accomplish in only about eight weeks. They have put together a remarkably good show. For a choir of this size, I am terribly proud of them.”

The North Country also enjoyed Kathleen Buell’s stirring vocal solo of Schubert’s “Ave Maria.” Mrs. Buell also performed an organ solo of “Come, Savior of the Gentiles” by Johann Pachelbel.

A carol sing was enjoyed by all, included holiday favorites such as: “The First Noel,” “Joy To The World,” among others.

“Ladies and gentlemen, on behalf of the choir and the instrumentalists in the North Country Brass and the Riverside Brass Quartet, I’d like to thank you all for your generous applause,” Mr. Buell said. “It is a great pleasure to present this Christmas program to you each year. This is a labor of love for all of these individuals. They spend weekend after weekend putting this together, and have done so now for many, many years…”

The concert concluded with the much-loved carol, “Silent Night.” The song was first performed at a Christmas Eve service over 200 years ago, in 1818 in the village of Salzburg, Austria. The carol, however, began it life as a poem, written by Father Joseph Mohr.

A standing ovation was given for the Gouverneur Community Chorus, the North Country Brass and the Riverside Brass Quartet at the conclusion of the concert. Wishes for a “Merry Christmas” were shared as the North Country enjoyed a brief time of fellowship. Much appreciation was extended to all those who made the event possible. Mr. Buell encouraged anyone interested to join the 2025 Gouverneur Community Chorus. Student-vocalists from local school districts are invited to participate. For more information, contact the First Presbyterian Church of Gouverneur at 315-287-0560.

Free To The Community Christmas Dinner is Dec. 23

by Rachel Hunter

The Free To The Community Christmas Dinner, hosted by the First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur and sponsored by the Friday Senior Lunch Program, will be held on Monday, December 23, serving starts at 4 p.m.

Organizers told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that the meal will include: ham, baked potato, and all the trimmings.

The dinner will be served from the First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur, located at 34 Grove St., Gouverneur. All meals will be available via drive-thru only. The one-way traffic will enter by Tangles Salon & Day Spa in Gouverneur and exit by Key Bank. Call the church office at 315-287-2440 to make a reservation no later than 11 a.m. on Dec. 20.

Chamber kicks off holiday season with festive celebration

by Rachel Hunter

Gouverneurians came together on Saturday, December 7 in the Gouverneur Village Park to celebrate the start of the 2024 holiday season.

The Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade and festivities in the Gouverneur Village Park on Saturday, December 7. The event featured fun for the whole family with the annual Christmas parade, visits with Santa Claus, a mechanical reindeer ride, and refreshments. It was sponsored by Kinney Drugs, Lawrence Manor, Bonaparte Pharmacy, Community Health Center of the North Country, and St. Lawrence Health’s Gouverneur Hospital. The event highlighted the newly renovated Gouverneur Village Park, and Santa Claus visits were held in the new Gouverneur Village Park Gazebo.

The fun started at 2 p.m. with the opportunity to ride the mechanical reindeer, and enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides (thanks to Bango Valley Percherons in Richville) around the Gouverneur Savings and Loan Association parking lot. Many also enjoyed the opportunity to warm up in the fellowship hall of the First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur, enjoying hot cocoa and Christmas cookies. Over 800 cookies were prepared in advance of the event by the culinary arts students at Southwest Tech (BOCES) in Fowler and local bakers (Sweet Creations by Lindsey, Rock Island Sweet Treats, Rustic Rise Sourdough & Supplies, Sweet Treats Up The Street, and Shay Can Bake). North Country residents also enjoyed coloring alongside photo opportunities and visits from Mrs. Claus and a North Pole elf.

North Country families were awestruck by how the Village of Gouverneur Department of Public Works had decked out the Gouverneur Village Park in readiness for the holiday season. The park once again featured the lit snowflakes and arch décor that was purchased following the Chamber’s 2021 Light Up Our Village fundraising campaign. Over $20,000 was raised, thanks to nearly 50 local businesses and community members. The community was also impressed with all the holiday lights installed in the Gouverneur Village Park Gazebo. Others were thrilled to see the traditional wooden holiday decorations (Santa, nativity, carolers, and more) installed for the community’s enjoyment. Local businesses were also open on Saturday night, and the Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce encouraged all to “shop local” this holiday season and beyond. 

By 5 p.m. on Dec. 7, the North Country families had lined the sidewalks to enjoy the annual Christmas parade. Traffic control was handled throughout the event by local law enforcement, led by the Village of Gouverneur Police Department.

The parade was announced by Gouverneur Chamber Director Raymond Babowicz, assisted by Executive Director Donna Besaw and Director Donna Lawrence. They announced the parade from the Village’s temporary stage installed by the village gazebo.

The lead car in the 2024 Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade was the Village of Gouverneur Police Department apparatus, driven by Gouverneur Police Department Chief of Police Darren Fairbanks. Other law enforcement in the parade included the St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office and the New York State Police.

Local dignitaries in the parade included Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall, Village of Gouverneur Deputy Mayor Charles Newvine, Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr., and Town of Gouverneur Councilman Curran Wade.

The festively decorated Town of Gouverneur Highway Department plow truck, driven by Larry Allen and passenger Lorrine Allen, pulled the float featuring the Gouverneur Wildcat Football and Girls Basketball Program. The decorated Village of Gouverneur DPW truck was driven by Village of Gouverneur DPW Deputy Supt. Chris Fitzgerald with passenger Hadley Fitzgerald.

The Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce awarded its $50 prize to the Wild Wood Wrangler 4-H Club in appreciation of their equestrian display.

The local businesses participating included Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce’s Marble Sponsor Kinney Drugs, which was founded in Gouverneur in 1903. Other local businesses in the parade included the following: Newvine’s NAPA Auto Parts in Gouverneur, New York Pizzeria, McDonalds of Gouverneur, Black Lake Wedding & Party Rentals, Bango Valley Percherons, and PIXELIT with holiday greetings from Northern Credit Union. Local clubs and organizations participating included: Gouverneur Farmers Market, North Country Prenatal/Perinatal Council (NCPPC)’s Gouverneur Family Resource Center, and the Tri-County Jeep Club.

The Gouverneur Fire Department brought three apparatuses. Engine 17 was driven by Thomas Haynes and Amber Haynes. ETA-101 was driven by Dale Johnson and Sheila Johnson. The Gouverneur Fire Department was tasked by the North Pole to safely bring Santa to the park so he could meet with all the local children – and many of the youngest set squealed in excitement as they spotted Santa Claus waving atop GFD’s Rescue 4, driven by Dorwin Gore and Steve Bos. Other fire departments participating included: Richville Volunteer Fire Department (Michael Thomas, Keirsten Thomas, Corie Farr and Tammy Jenkins), and Oxbow Volunteer Fire Department’s Fightin’ 33 (driven by Chief James Maloy). The Gouverneur Rescue Squad also had a festively decorated ambulance, driven in the parade by Sam Berry.

Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and a North Pole elf were then directed toward the newly renovated Gouverneur Village Park Gazebo to greet and visit with the local children. Santa’s throne was positioned in front of an ornately decorated Christmas tree, donated by the Gouverneur Lions Club, for the event. A long line formed, and eager youngsters ran into Santa’s awaiting arms. The youths told Santa Claus their Christmas wishes and were given special gifts from Santa Claus’ helpers.

Much gratitude is extended to all those who contributed any type of service to the event’s success. For more information on the Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce, visit www.gouverneurchamber.net.