by Rachel Hunter
North Country children will have the opportunity to swim at Sylvia Lake in Fowler this summer through the Gouverneur Recreation Department’s Summer Youth Enrichment Program.
Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that the New York State Department of Health has announced changes to state regulations that would require the Gouverneur Recreation Department to bring an additional lifeguard on premises during trips to local beaches or pools. Gouverneur Recreation Department Director Casey Canell did some research on the topic, knowing that there was a potential for swim to be removed from the Summer Enrichment Program if something was not done.
The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees at its June 18 meeting approved the hiring of Meredith Bush of Gouverneur (certified lifeguard) and Abigail Lucas of Gouverneur (recreation attendant). The rate of pay for both new hires is $15.60 per hour. The approval came upon the request and recommendation of Gouverneur Recreation Director Casey Canell. The motion to hire was made by Village Trustee Troy Besaw, seconded by Deputy Mayor Charles Newvine and Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn.
In discussion, Trustee Troy Besaw asked: “This solves our problem with the lifeguard situation, correct?”
“Yes, the kids will be able to swim using our recreation department at Sylvia Lake and other places,” Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall said.
Deputy Mayor Charles Newvine said, “Just so you are aware, there will be four people, four lifeguards for a spot that is about as big as this room.”
“That is what they want,” Village of Gouverneur Clerk/Treasurer Barbara Finnie said.
“Thank you, New York State,” Trustee Besaw said.
“Yes, it is better known as an unfunded mandate,” Mayor McDougall said.
There was no further discussion, and the motion carried with all votes cast in favor.
“Okay, Casey, and congratulations to the people involved,” Mayor McDougall said.
Trustee Besaw then said, “And congratulations for reaching out, and finding some individuals, when we were in a tough spot here. Nice job.”
In other news: Gouverneur Recreation Department Director Casey Canell gave the following monthly report.
The Before-School Morning Program meets weekdays at Gouverneur Elementary School, and is hosted in partnership with the Gouverneur Central School District. Enrichment program features early morning wake-up activities, interactive social play, arts and crafts, and breakfast. Highlights this month include Kids Kindness Recognitions and Bingo Fun Theme Days.
The After-School Program meets at the Gouverneur Recreation Center STEAM Studio on Trinity Ave., Gouverneur, for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Match activities. The After-School Program is held on Mondays and Wednesdays for Grades 2-4, and Tuesdays and Thursday for those in UPK-Grade 1. Bus transportation is provided by the Gouverneur Central School District. The program highlights include recreational opportunities exploring STEAM field, theme days and guests with fine arts appreciation, gaming stations with tournaments, and interactive social play. Highlights this month included Summer Fun Fest and Father’s Day Projects.
Toddler Town meets on Tuesday and Thursday mornings for a recreation pre-school playgroup. The program features interactive socialization, music and art, story and snack, and active play. Highlights this month included Father’s Day Arts with Parents & Me interactive play.
The Senior Citizen Program continues to be held weekly on Friday mornings for bingo and coffee social. All area seniors are welcome to attend. Highlights this month include Flag Day Theme Bingo.
In related business: The Gouverneur Recreation Department on June 15 hosted the carnival games at the 2024 Greater Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce Flag Day Celebration. Gratitude was extended to the Gouverneur Chamber for the prizes.
Sign-ups are underway for Missoula Children's Theatre (MCT) Summer Recreation Program Performing Arts (July 22 to July 27) for youth in Grades K-12. The 2024 show is Sleeping Beauty. Packets are available at the Gouverneur Recreation Center. For more information, call 315-287-0524
The Summer Youth Enrichment Program is currently being planned for July 8 to August 15, 2024.
Much gratitude was extended to Director Canell for his report.
The next regular meeting of the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees will be held on Tuesday, July 18, 6 p.m., at the municipal courtroom. For more information about the Village of Gouverneur, call 315-287-1720.