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.

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.

Gouverneur students will activate HOPE with Sweethearts & Heroes

An amazing duo of superheroes without capes, including a Purple Heart Recipient who has released a children’s book, will be in Gouverneur to teach students and educators how to activate compassion, empathy and HOPE in their classrooms — and beyond.

Sweethearts & Heroes will be in the Gouverneur Central School District (CSD) on Tuesday, Dec. 10 and Wednesday, Dec. 11. Sweethearts & Heroes aims to prevent hopelessness, bullying and suicide by providing dynamic, inspiring content that centers on the human interaction skills necessary for schools and other organizations to change all aspects of their culture — skills such as empathy, compassion and teamwork.

Sweethearts & Heroes offers a profound, engaging signature presentation that calls for HOPE (Hold On, Possibilities Exist), Empathy and Action; Circle, which is built on the ancient ritual of communicating in a circle to build compassion and empathy; and the BRAVE Youth Leadership Program, which trains older students in bully drills that they, in turn, teach to students in lower grades, thus creating a sustainable, student-directed initiative that can change a school’s culture.

During this school year, Sweethearts & Heroes started offering Train the Trainer, which teaches current educators how to weave their own Circle trainings for future hires; and STEP (the Student Teacher Empathy Program), which teaches high school students how to present Sweethearts & Heroes’ signature assemblies for students in grades K-2 and 3-5.

Sweethearts & Heroes’ central team of traveling presenters includes: Tom Murphy, Director and Founder, of St. Albans, VT; Ret. U.S. Army Sgt. Rick Yarosh, a HOPE expert, Purple Heart recipient and motivational speaker from New York who was burned severely while serving in Iraq; and Pat Fish, BRAVE Program Director & Circle Specialist, also of New York.

“Sweethearts & Heroes doesn’t focus on creating another SEL (social-emotional learning) or Human Skills curriculum,” Murphy said. “Instead, we implement practices and habits that genuinely empower and nurture students’ growth. When people genuinely connect on a daily basis, they naturally develop the capacity for more meaningful interactions and thoughtful responses. Prioritizing human skills shouldn’t require extra preparation or a separate curriculum — it should be our primary focus. After all, before we can effectively teach academic subjects, we must first be teachers of humanity.”

For more than 16 years, Sweethearts & Heroes has presented what Murphy calls “‘the ‘stop, drop and roll’ of bullying” to more than 2.5 million students in school districts from New England to Hawaii and north into Canada. Sweethearts & Heroes also tailors its presentations and workshops for businesses, non-profits and civic groups. Murphy said, “We go where we’re needed. That’s what heroes do.”

During Veterans Day week, Yarosh released A Bridge Named Amos, the inspiring, true story of his hero and service dog, Amos, who died in October, just before the book went to press. Born on Christmas, Amos was a lovable, black Lab who traveled with Yarosh over thousands of miles to hundreds of schools with Sweethearts & Heroes. Together, they taught children and adults how to overcome challenges, celebrate differences and embrace empathy. A Bridge Named Amos is told from Amos’ warm perspective, and it comes with a free downloadable workbook. OESJ Central School District (NY) Art Teacher Kevin Cannon illustrated the book.

Sweethearts & Heroes’ other books include Boredom School: For Those Bored in School, a collection of captivating, humorous and thought-provoking poems by Pat Fish; and 13 Pillows For Affective Teachers, a novel by Tom Murphy and Brian McKeon, of New York, that covers the themes of HOPE, Empathy and Action in the Sweethearts & Heroes curriculum.

In September, during National Suicide Prevention Month, about 140 students from seven Upstate New York schools attended Sweethearts & Heroes’ first three-day — and phone-free — Youth Leadership Summit with Spartan Race at Killington Resort in Vermont.

Sweethearts & Heroes has also created The HOPE Classroom, a digital subscription service designed for various grade levels and different school sizes. This value-packed offering can allow Sweethearts & Heroes to be in every school in the U.S. For more on Sweethearts & Heroes, find them here on social media.

Gouverneur Lions roar into the holiday season with Christmas Tree fundraiser

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Lions Club is holding its Annual Christmas Tree Fundraiser, starting Small Business Saturday (November 30). The sale is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Nov. 30-Dec. 1 and Dec.7-8 at Emerald Greens, 1485 US-11, Gouverneur. As in past years, the Gouverneur Lions Club will be offering free delivery. Pre-orders are available, call 315-771-1433. The Gouverneur Lions Club is a visible force for good, and all proceeds will benefit the local community.

Did you know? The Gouverneur Lions Club for over 85 years has worked to improve health and well-being, strengthen local communities. The club has a rich history of community service and helping to enrich the lives of local residents. King Lion Betsy Cummings, president of the Gouverneur Lions Club, has told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that the club’s main focus is on efforts to support the blind and visually impaired. The club also supports efforts to improve the environment, aid during natural disasters, and fight pediatric cancer and diabetes.

Did you know? The Gouverneur Lions Club was organized on October 31, 1935. It was the first group with international affiliations to be formed here. In fact, it was one of the first Lions Clubs that were established north of the rail line from Syracuse to Albany. On August 12, 1935, the first northern club was started at Tupper Lake. Canton and Massena followed, on October 21, 1935. Ten days later, the Gouverneur Lions Club completed its formation. Herbert A. Dye of Niagara Falls was the district governor in 1935, and his territory was the entire state of New York, including Long Island. One visit to each club was required during his one-year term. To ensure better roads for the district governor’s long trip from Niagara Falls, the formal charter presentation was postponed until May 15, 1936. Harold Murphy had been elected the first president at the organization meeting in October. Vice-presidents were the late Glen W. Severance, the late Roy D. Gibbs and Walter Clinch. Robert G. Cottrell was secretary-treasurer. The first club activity, back in 1935, was a school banquet for the school football team which played in the championship but didn’t win it. The Lions invitation was issued prior to that important game. The invitation stated that, “win, lose, or tie, we back you and want you as our guests.” Gold footballs were presented to each varsity player. Since Helen Keller challenged Lions to become “Knights of the Blind” in 1925, the Lions Club International has improved eye health and eye care for hundreds of millions of people around the world. Today, 80 percent of vision impairments are preventable or curable, so the service is more important than ever before. Lions and Leos screen vision, educate communities, build clinics and support the blind and visually impaired through assistive technology and vocational training programs. The Gouverneur Lions Club is just one of the 49,000 clubs who bring hands and hearts to the communities they serve in nearly every country on earth.

The Gouverneur Lions Club is excited to once again enrich the lives of the community with the 2024 Christmas Tree fundraiser. The fragrant scent of the evergreen trees triggers holiday memories past and present. Don’t miss the opportunity to “shop local, support local” and get your hands on a Christmas tree… or more! Call 315-771-1433 for more information.

The Gouverneur Lions Club is always accepting new members. For more information, call 315-771-1310.

Reminder: RSVP for Free Thanksgiving Dinner on Nov. 28

A free community-wide Thanksgiving Dinner will be held on Thanksgiving Day (Thursday, November 28) at the First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur, 34 Grove St., Gouverneur. Serving starts at 11:30 a.m. There is no cost for the Thanksgiving Dinner, featuring turkey with all the trimmings. The meal is sponsored by the Friday Senior Lunch Program, and is available via take-out only. Reservations are required. Call the church office at 315-287-2440 by Nov. 26.

Save The Date: Chamber’s Christmas Parade is Dec. 7

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce will hold its Annual Christmas Parade and Festivities on Saturday, December 7, in downtown Gouverneur. The event is sponsored by the Chamber’s Marble Member Kinney Drugs, Gold Members Bonaparte Pharmacy, Community Health Center of the North Country, Gouverneur Hospital and Lawrence Manor.

The fun starts in the Gouverneur Village Park at 2 p.m., with free mechanical reindeer rides (2-5 p.m.) and horse-drawn wagon rides (2-4:30 p.m.). There will be free hot cocoa and cookies available in the basement of the First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur (34 Grove St.), and a children’s coloring contest will be on site.

The parade will line-up, 4 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., near Green Funeral Home. All parade participants are required to sign-in upon arrival. The parade will start at 5 p.m. There will be a $50 prize for the best parade float. All businesses, churches, clubs and organizations, schools, and families are welcome to participate. The Chamber encourages all to showcase their holiday spirit with creative lighting during the parade.

Santa Claus will once again be the special guest of the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce for the holiday celebration Santa will greet the children and give them a gift, immediately after parade, under the new village gazebo.

Mark your calendar for Saturday, December 7, and make plans to join this memorable holiday celebration in Gouverneur. For more information on the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce, visit www.gouverneurchamber.net.

Veterans Day Observance is Nov. 11

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Veterans Day Observance will be held on Monday, November 11, 11 a.m., at the Gouverneur Memorial Arch in the Gouverneur Village Park. The public is invited and encouraged to attend.

The guest speaker is LTC Richard T. Sposito, Jr., who hails from Newport News, Viriginia. Upon graduation from the Longwood University ROTC, he received his commission in the Military Police Corps in 2007. Following graduation, he attended the MP Basic Officer Leader Course at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. His first assignment was to Fort Campbell, Kentucky where he served as Platoon Leader and Assistant Operations Officer in the 4th BCT, 101st ABN DIV (AASLT), deploying to Afghanistan in 2008-2009.

LTC Sposito graduated from the MP Captain’s Career Course in 2012 where he received an M.A. in Business and Organizational Security Management from Webster’s University and was assigned to 94th MP BN (Seoul, ROK) assuming command of the 55th MP CO (Camp Casey, ROK). Upon completion of command, MAJ Sposito was assigned to The Citadel (Charleston, SC) as an APMS. In 2017, LTC Sposito graduated ILE at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas and was assigned to the 16th MP BDE serving both as the BDE Chief of Operations and Training Officer, deploying as part of the contingency response force to the Southwest Border in 2018. While still at Fort Bragg, LTC Sposito served as BN XO, 503d MP BN then BDE XO, 16th MP BDE from 2019-2021. Following the completion of his time in the 16th MPBDE, LTC Sposito served as the Military Police Organizational Integrator, Forces Command from 2021-23.

Currently, LTC Sposito serves as the Commander, 91st Military Police Battalion and Director of Emergency Services, Fort Drum, New York. His awards include Meritorious Service Medal (3OLC), Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device (1OLC), Army Achievement Medal (2OLC). His badges include the Combat Action Badge, German Armed Forces Efficiency Badge (Gold), Chilean Parachutist Badge, US Army Parachutists Badge, Air Assault Badge, and Pathfinder Badge. His unit awards include the Meritorious Unit Citation. He is also a recipient of the General MacArthur Leadership Award.

LTC Sposito is married to the former Carla Blum from Gloucester, Virginia and together they have two children, Kaitlyn and Abigail.

Following the Veterans Day Observance, the public will be invited to attend a luncheon at Silas Wainwright VFW Post 6338, 100 W. Main St., Gouverneur. Remember:  “All gave some, some gave all. We did not know them all, but we owe them all.” For more info, call 315-287-4682.

Gouverneur CSD Board of Education hears Wildcat news

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur CSD Board of Education heard the Wildcat news report, given by Gouverneur CSD Supt. Jackie Kelly, at the Oct. 21 meeting.

“As you know, our cafeterias have begun to use locally sourced food, and tonight I have some facts about that to share with you,” Supt. Kelly said. “The Gouverneur cafeterias have served approximately 1,600 pounds of locally grown, picked and processed apple slices as well as unprocessed apples. We served 250 pounds each of salsa mix, diced onions and diced green peppers. We also just began to receive butternut squash. We started using corn on the cob and green beans that had been flash-frozen allowing us to have fresh vegetables throughout the entire school year. These fruits and vegetables are grown and harvested by our local farmers right here in St. Lawrence County. Then, they are processed and packaged in the Harvest Kitchen at the Cornell Cooperative Extension in Canton. Apples, salsa mix, onions and green peppers are delivered to Gouverneur and neighboring school districts each week by St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES staff. We are also using local potatoes to make homemade French fries as well as fresh beef and pork products that are sourced locally. We are very excited to be able to offer these vegetables, fruits and meats to our students, and we are continuing to work to offer more locally grown produce in the future.

“Next, in our Wildcat news, I want to share a great opportunity in which some of our students participated last week. On Thursday, October 17, some of our high school students here at Gouverneur participated in St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES Annual Manufacturing Day. The event had students tour manufacturing facilities across the region, learning about the array of products that are made right here in the North Country and discovering the variety of careers possible in the industry. This year, some of the companies right here in Gouverneur (including Kinney Drugs, CIVES Steel, and Riverside Iron) participated in this special event. Our students from Gouverneur visited Riverside Iron and the Five Mile Farm in Lisbon. At Riverside Iron, our students saw some of the miscellaneous ornamental and structural steel fabricated right here in Gouverneur. Our students also visited the Five Mile Farm in Lisbon, which has been in the Akins family since the mid-1800s. Today, the fifth, sixth and seventh generations work together on the farm. Our students got to see a modern farm, including a 50-cow rotary parlor that improves the efficiency of milking cows in operation. Manufacturing Day is a national initiative spearheaded by the Manufacturing Institute. It is traditionally held in the month of October, or whenever there is an opportunity to spark interest in the next generation of manufacturers. In this part of the region, the effort is organized by St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES, who coordinates the business visits with St. Lawrence County Industrial Development Agency. Over 340 students from St. Lawrence County attended this event, and students from Hammond, Morristown, and Lisbon visited businesses right here in the vicinity of Gouverneur. I’d like to thank Mr. Sochia for chaperoning this educational opportunity for our students.

“Finally, I’d like to provide an update on the RECOVS grant. As you know, we were the recipient of the 2023-2025 New York State RECOVS Recover from COVID School Program Grant in the amount of $508,000. This money is helping us continue some of our ARP-funded positions through the year 2025. In addition to the two social worker positions that were created, we will still be working with Gouverneur Behavioral Health to expand student access to school-based mental health professionals right here in our school buildings. We are all very excited about the development of this relationship with a local organization that will help support our students and their families. As a reminder, Gouverneur was one of only two school districts in the North Country to receive this grant, and it is a tremendous opportunity for us, our students and their families. Thank you!”

Much gratitude was extended to Supt. Kelly for her report.

In other news:

The Gouverneur CSD Board of Education was recognized during the School Board Appreciation Week, October 14-18. The Board includes: David Fenlong, President, Todd Bates, Vice President, Brooke Bush, William Cartwright, Lisa McGregor, Nickolas Ormasen, Laurie Roberts, and Laura Spicer. Appreciation was extended to the Board for all that they do. Gouverneur CSD Supt. Kelly said: “The New York State School Boards Association recognized Oct. 14-18, 2024 as School Board Recognition Week,” she said. “This is a time to promote awareness and understanding of the important work performed by our school boards. Board members are required to make difficult decisions and spend countless hours studying education issues and regulations in order to provide accountability to our community stakeholders. Our board members spend many hours volunteering their time to ensure strategies, resources, policies and programs align with our district goals. School board members give the citizens of Gouverneur a voice in decision making. They are advocates for public education. It takes strong schools to build a strong community. These men and women devote their time to make sure our schools help every child to have the opportunity to be successful. Every decision they make is not only in the best interest of our 1,444 students but also in the best of interest of our district families, our faculty and staff members, and the entire community of Gouverneur. Thank you, to each and every one of you, for all that you do for all of the stakeholders in our district.” A tribute video was posted on the Gouverneur CSD Facebook page following the board meeting. During public comment, Jerrilyn Patton, Co-President of the Gouverneur Education Association, presented a small token of appreciation (gift certificate to the Casablanca Restaurant in Gouverneur) to the school board members in gratitude for all the work that they do, and the support of the students, school programs, etc. For more information on the Gouverneur CSD Board of Education, visit www.gcsk12.org.

The Gouverneur CSD Board of Education heard the audit report from Crowley & Halloran, CPAs, P.C. The Board then accepted the external auditor’s report for fiscal year, ending June 30, 2024.

The Board approved the following recommendations for tenure: Bobbie Holmes (Science Teacher) and Jean C. Johnson (English Teacher).

The Board approved the addendum to the Memorandum of Agreement #5 between the Gouverneur Central School District and the Gouverneur School Related Personnel Union to provide additional compensation to teacher aides who substitute teach when no substitutes or other appropriates means are available to extend through the 2024-25 school year.

The Board approved Memorandum of Agreement #1 between the Gouverneur Central School District and the Gouverneur Education Association to amend Appendix A to recognize DEI Club (Class E).

The Board accepted resignation requests from Erika J. Woodrow (Individual Aide), Elizabeth Rathbun (2.75-hour Food Service Helper), and Michelle Fiacco (2.75-hour Food Service Helper).

The Board approved the following appointments: Ashley Barr and Lindsey McCormick were named Gouverneur Elementary Afterschool Tutoring Instructors. Pam Stevens was named a Middle School Afterschool Tutoring Instructor. The following substitutes were appointed: Carlton M. Bresett, Mallorie Fuller, Rachel Laso, Morgan Prashaw, Jennifer Stiles, Gabrielle Platt. The Board approved the following 2024-25 advisors: Select Strings (Janeen L. Streeter), FFA Assistant (Taylor A. Rollins), FFA Summer 2024 (Kylie Torres).

The Board appointed the following 2024-25 winter coaches: Varsity Wrestling (George J. Baer), Basketball Girls 8th Grade (Evelyn G. Barton), Basketball Boys 7th and 8th Grade (Jarrett W. Bullock), JV Wrestling (Shawn Cummings), Wrestling 7th & 8th Grade (David M. Dailey), Varsity Girls Basketball (Sean Devlin), Winter Cheerleading (Erica Dowling), Volunteer Girls Basketball (Chelsi Peck), Girls Wrestling (Dylan Morrison), Modified Indoor Track (Julie K. Neiss), Basketball Girls 7th Grade (Korrine Patterson), Varsity Boys Basketball (Michael A. Shattuck), Basketball Girls JV (Rick L. Vrooman), Indoor Track (Kurtis P. Wells), Swim Boys Volunteer Assistant (Saddie R. Whitaker), and Swim Boys (Brett M. Worden).

The Board appointed students Kristen Burns as lifeguard, fitness room attendant. It also appointed Cayleigh Flynn as fitness room attendant.

The Board revised the appointment of Grace Mashaw, School counselor, to a probationary period, effective September 24, 2024 to September 23, 2028.

The Board appointed Madison L. Hurlbut to the non-probationary position of long-term substitute to replace a certain employee, effective September 17, 2024 to approximately December 13, 2024.

The Board had its first reading in its policy review for the following: 3231 (Complaints and Grievances by Employees), 3232 (Complaints and Grievances by Students), 3421 (Title IX and Sex Discrimination), 4250 (Evaluation of the Superintendent and other Administrative Staff), 5240 (School Tax Assessment and Collection/Property Tax Exemptions), 5681 (School Safety Plans), 8212 (Fire and Emergency Drills, Bomb Threats, and Bus Emergency Drills), 6550 (Leaves of Absence), 7220 (Graduation Requirements), 7224 (Virtual Instruction), 7470 (Student Government), 7540 (Student Directory Information), 8130 (Equal Educational Opportunities), and 7555 (Educational Services for Married/Pregnant Students). It is anticipated that the Board will adopt the recommendations at the Nov. 4 board meeting.

The Board approved the request for the Varsity Wrestling team to attend and compete in the following tournaments: Windsor Holiday Tournament, Windsor, NY (December 27-28), Peru Invitational, Peru, NY (January 4), Dame of Thrones, Halfmoon, NY (January 5), and King and Queen Bison Invitational, Latham, NY (January 25-26).

The Board approved the request for the Varsity Girls Basketball team to attend and compete in the following tournament: VVS Holiday Basketball Tournament, Verona, NY (December 27-28).

The Board approved the request for one member of the local chapter of the FFA to attend the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis from October 20-26, 2024. The student traveled with Assistant FFA Advisor Taylor Rollins and the Lowville chapter, and will cover her own expenses. The Board noted that it is interested in hearing about the trip at a future meeting.

The Board approved the request from the Class of 2025 for an overnight trip to Boston, Mass. in May 2025.

The Board authorized the Business Administrator to dispose of items declared as surplus that are obsolete, no longer useful or necessary for school district purposes and of no value to the school district.

The Board appointed Alissa McEathron, Julie Neiss, and Stephanie Plaisted as Teacher Ambassadors to the St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES for the 2024-25 school year.

The next regular meeting of the Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education will be held on Monday, November 4, 5:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.gcsk12.org.

Community Watch in Gouverneur gaining momentum

by Rachel Hunter

Interest in the Gouverneur Community Watch group is growing in the local community.

The community watch program’s purpose is to create an alert neighborhood by using simple crime prevention methods. The program works through the mutual aid of neighbors watching the property of other neighbors and reporting suspicious activity to police. The monthly meetings are maintaining the interest of over 30 community members. Also there are representatives from the New York State Police, St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office, and the Gouverneur Police Department. Local dignitaries who have expressed their support include Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall, Village of Gouverneur Deputy Mayor Charles Newvine, Village of Gouverneur Trustee Floyd McAdam, Village of Gouverneur Trustee Troy Besaw, Village of Gouverneur Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn, Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr., Town of Gouverneur Deputy Supervisor Jay Bowhall, Town of Fowler Supervisor Rick Newvine, among others.

The third meeting of the Gouverneur Community Watch Group was held on Oct. 16 at the Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center. The 80-minute meeting provided updates, and answered community members’ questions and concerns with the support of local law enforcement.

The meeting was emceed by Village of Gouverneur Deputy Mayor Charles Newvine, who reported that work has already begun to establish crime reporting zones in Gouverneur. The zone committee met a couple of times in the past month to arrive at the following recommendation: Zone 1 (Jefferson, W. Babcock, W. Barney, Austin, Clinton, Mill, Vaile, Snow, Dexter, Pearl, Johnstown, Ethel, E. Babcock, Trinity, E. Main, Barnes), Zone 2 (E. Barney, Barnes, Howard, Trinity, E. Main, N. Gordon, Caroline, Rock Island, Gleason, Valley, Meadow, Dale, Birchwood, Waid, Rowley, Edith), Zone 3 (Grove, Dodge, S. Gordon, Sterling, Beckwith, Averell, Depot, Pooler, Dorwin, Spencer, Factory, Lincoln, Bullard, Scotch Settlement), and Zone 4 (Bellevue, Vista, Adelia, Smith, Wilson, Murdock, Washington, Preston, W. Main, Reid, Starbuck, Prospect, McKean, Helena, Eckman, Parker, Hailesboro, River, Graves, William, South, Water). The group used the Village of Gouverneur’s brush pick-up zones to determine the zone recommendation. The zones may be further developed as future input is given.

Deputy Mayor Newvine said the success of the Gouverneur Community Watch group depends on community participation. The Gouverneur Community Watch Group needs volunteers, who are interested in seeing change in the local community. The group is currently looking to tailor the program to the needs of the Gouverneur community. But it needs people who are willing to put their name on the dotted line and sign-up to help. Deputy Mayor Newvine said now is the time for the Gouverneur Community Watch group to get organized.

“Crime is in your backyard in this small little town,” Deputy Mayor Newvine said, and then asked those present: “Will you be willing to observe, document and report?” He highlighted the reporting excellence by Dale Cronk, Sr., a Village of Gouverneur resident. “Mr. Cronk is very well-documented. Where he lives is a very problematic area in the Village. He keeps it very well-documented with a portfolio of where, what, when and why and how it happened. If you are willing to do that, then that’s a great thing. I will tell you: You will have to sign something. You will have to put your name on a piece of paper. That criminal will know your name and your address. That is the truth. They have the right to know that. That process isn’t slow for them to get it… What is your commitment level to this as far as having a community watch and having your name and personal information out there. That is something you have to ask yourself. The truth is that people are going to know who you are, and that’s not a lot of fun.” Deputy Mayor Newvine encouraged all those interested in volunteering to have a point of contact card that lists all local law enforcement phone numbers, and the zone coverage schedule.

Deputy Mayor Newvine said there are no protections that exist for those involved in the Gouverneur Community Watch group. He told the crowd, “If someone breaks onto my property, and my father sees it and tries to do something about. He is going to get arrested for assault, and that criminal is going to get trespass. He doesn’t care. He is a criminal, and it just goes in his file. This working class gentleman is going to get assault, and he is going to pay a lawyer and go to court and it is going to cost him money. That’s why these guys say that the justice system is broken… Are you willing to patrol and observe? Are you willing to do that? Are you willing to patrol the streets at 2 o’clock in the morning till 4 o’clock in the morning. There’s no coverage here from the Village police department from 11 p.m. on. So, 11 p.m. to 2 a.m., 2 a.m. to 4 a.m., and 4 a.m. to 6 a.m. These criminals are working while we are sleeping. That’s the shifts we are talking about here. Is it going to happen in the day? Yes, crime happens during the day too. But a lot of it goes on at night. Are you willing to do that? That is something you need to ask yourself.”

Deputy Mayor Newvine then gave the crowd the good, the bad, and the ugly about crime in Gouverneur and the surrounding community. “The good news is that we are here. We have people involved here, and we are going forward with this. We are going to be proactive and not reactive to this. That is what we are trying to do. That is the good news. We are trying to do something,” he said.

“The bad news is that it is worse than you think. If you think it is bad out there, it is worse than you think. Very recently, I have gotten up early to drive through the Village with my dog. I check on Newvine’s Auto Parts and I cruise around by the car wash, and I go back through town. If you want to get up at 5 o’clock in the morning and check on what’s going on in this Village, please do. Driving through the Village during the day, it doesn’t get much better. So, it is worse than you think. There’s probably about 11 people sleeping underneath the bridge. (Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr.) runs into it at Riverview Park all the time. That is the bad news, and there’s not much help out there… for them or for us. The other thing is that it is going to get worse before it gets better. If you think it is bad now, it is going to get worse before it gets better.

“This is the ugly part. I am going to give you the truth with as much grace as possible. If you haven’t talked about home defense with your loved ones at your house, you are already behind the eight ball. I have had the discussion with my kids not too long ago. They know exactly what is going to happen at my house if somebody breaks in. They know exactly what they are going to do, where they are going to be, and what they are going to do when they get there until I come get them. I know what I am doing at my home. I know exactly what is going to happen at my home if somebody should break in. If you don’t have that conversation with your loved ones, you are already behind the eight ball. That is the truth with as much grace as I can muster.

“Are you going to be willing to patrol? Meaning, if you are going to take the 2-4 a.m. shift on Prospect Street, are you going to patrol? I’ll give you a sign. I’ll give you a hat. We’ll put something on your car. What if a criminal comes up to you? Do you have a taser? Do you have mace? Do you have a pistol? If you do, I hope it is concealed carry. If not, you have to be going to the range or from the range. And if you do have concealed carry, you have to be retreating with that firearm and it has to be your last line of defense. If it isn’t, you are going to jail. That is the truth. If you are on patrol and you are observing and reporting, and you get out of your car, and that criminal comes to you, are you going to go hands on? Because there are people who talk about fighting and there’s people that fight. Those criminals are the last one. That is the truth… If you haven’t talked about home defense with your family, you need to do that. The First Amendment says that you can say anything you want. The Second Amendment says you better have a gun if you are going to do it. That is just the truth. If you are going to try to observe and report, and somebody wants to go hands on… are you going to go hands on? That is something you have to ask yourself.”

Village of Gouverneur resident Judy Brown then asked: “Where are they all coming from?” Deputy Mayor Newvine responded, “There is a mental health crisis in this community, and we are seeing it. Gouverneur Hospital sees it. They go Thursday to get help… on Sunday, they sign themselves out until Monday. They cope until Thursday, and they do it all over again. And there’s nothing you can do. There’s people in such a mental health crisis that they don’t know what to do. There’s help out there, but they don’t want it.”

“Why is it happening more here?” asked Village of Gouverneur resident Miki Hopper. “Don’t think it is happening just here,” Deputy Mayor Newvine said. “It’s not. It’s Canton. It’s Ogdensburg. It’s Potsdam. It’s worse in other places. But you are going to see more foot traffic here.” Deputy Mayor Newvine reminded the crowd that citizens are to observe and report only, and to let the local law enforcement agencies handle the policing. “There cannot be vigilante justice,” Deputy Mayor Newvine said. “But we’ve got to try to take back our community. “Can we fix all of it? Probably not. We can’t fix Canton. We can’t fix Ogdensburg. We can’t fix Potsdam. We’re concerned about that, but we need to fix Gouverneur. It’s a small, little town that I grew up in, was fortunate to move away for four years to go to college, and came right back here to sell brake pads. You all have a vested interest in this town. If you didn’t have a vested interest, you wouldn’t be here. We’re not doing it for our own sake. I mean, we are. But we are doing it for the sake of our children, our grandchildren. It doesn’t look like it did when I was in high school. It doesn’t look like it did five years ago. Things have changed. The system is broken.”

The Gouverneur Community Watch group wants to purchase and install 10 solar-powered surveillance cameras at high-crime locations in the Village of Gouverneur. The locations have been noted by Village of Gouverneur Chief of Police Darren Fairbanks of the Gouverneur Police Department. Maps of potential locations were distributed at the community watch meeting. “We are going to first prioritize where the problem areas are, and stick them in the right spot. You are going to see that the hottest spot is over by Prospect St.,” Deputy Mayor Newvine said. “That is just the truth. They go over there a lot. You can cut from Prospect St., right behind NAPA onto Main St., and you can get from Prospect St. over to Parker St. where they can hide a little bit on the west side of town.” It is estimated that $50,000-$100,000 is needed to fund the project. Generous donations are already being promised. The group is also discussing fundraisers to help support the project. There also have been discussions on signage, social media presence, and so much more.

But more people need to be involved. The Gouverneur Community Watch Group is looking for participation from local clubs and community organizations, and is seeking representatives from the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce, the Gouverneur Lions Club, the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club, the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035, among others. The group also plans to reach out to elected officials, including: St. Lawrence County District 5 Legislator Harry Smithers (R-Gouverneur), NYS Senator Mark Walczyk, NYS Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush, and others.

The Gouverneur Community Watch group needs a logo. Deputy Mayor Newvine said he contacted GHS Art Teacher Robert Decker on the topic. A logo design contest is anticipated, and local students are encouraged to participate.

The Gouverneur Community Watch group meets on the third Wednesday of each month, 6 p.m., at the Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center, 4673 NY-58, Gouverneur. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 20. All those interested are encouraged to attend. For more information on how you can get involved, email cwnewvine@yahoo.com or phone Newvine’s NAPA Auto Parts at (315) 287-4098.

Village sets trick-or-treating hours

by Rachel Hunter

It’s official! Trick-or-treating in the Village of Gouverneur will be from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, October 31 (Halloween). The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees voted on the matter during the Oct. 15 meeting. See the Tribune’s community calendar for local Halloween happenings.

Gouverneur Trunk or Treat is Oct. 25

by Rachel Hunter

The 7th Annual Gouverneur Trunk or Treat, sponsored by the Community Health Center of the North Country and Seaway Valley Prevention Council, in partnership with the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Association and Gouverneur Central School District, will be held on Friday, October 25, 6 p.m., at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds. All trunk-or-treaters are encouraged to wear their best costume, as the annual event once again is held via a walk-through format.

Motorists are asked to park in the Gouverneur Central lot on E. Barney St. Costumed children will then make their way through the fairgrounds entrance between the parking lot and the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair office. They will then walk down the Gouverneur Fair Midway, stopping at each vehicle with decorated trunks and receive their treats. This is a free community event, and all are invited to attend.

Seaway Valley Prevention Council and the Community Health Center of the North Country hope that the Gouverneur Trunk or Treat will once again be a fun, family-friendly way to get the word out about what services are available for people dealing with substance use issues. The idea originated with the Seaway Valley Prevention Council who in partnership with the Massena Drug-Free Community Coalition held a successful Trunk or Treat at Massena High School years ago, drawing in hundreds of costumed children. Piggybacking on this rousing success while seeking a fun, engaging way to spread the word in the local community about the services available to those with substance use issues, SVPC and CHCNC thought the best way would be to bring a Trunk or Treat event to Gouverneur. The event drew an estimated 1,400 costumed community members in 2023.

The Community Health Center of the North Country and the Seaway Valley Prevention Council have put a call-out for trunks at the 2024 Gouverneur Trunk or Treat. All businesses, organizations and individuals interested in decorating a trunk are encouraged to register their vehicle by emailing clebeau@svpc.net. The Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce informed the Gouverneur Tribune Press that they will be there with their decorated trunk, and encourage the local business community to register. All those entering decorated trunks are encouraged to start the planning process, and pack candy (or other treats) for the trunk-or-treaters. Make sure to arrive early for set-up so that you can hand out candy and show off your decorations.

Mark your calendars today for the 2024 Gouverneur Trunk or Treat event, sponsored by the Community Health Center of the North Country and the Seaway Valley Prevention Council, on Friday, October 25, 6 p.m., at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds.

Village of Gouverneur hears monthly GRD report

by Rachel Hunter

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees at its Sept. 17 meeting heard the following report from Gouverneur Recreation Department Director Casey Canell.

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 included a Meet & Greet with families at the school

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. This month, the youths enjoyed Fall Fun theme days.

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.

The Senior Citizen Program continues to be held weekly on Friday mornings for food bingo games and coffee social. All area seniors are welcome to attend.

The Gouverneur Recreation Department was at the 13th Annual Gouverneur Pumpkin Festival at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds on Sept. 22 with various youth activities, including scarecrow making, carnival games and a scavenger hunt. They also had various youth activities at the Community Health Center of the North Country’s Celebration of Dr. Schuessler on Sept. 14 at the Gouverneur Village Park. The Gouverneur Recreation Department also attended the Youth Bureau Advisory Board Meeting on Sept. 10.

Gratitude was extended to the Spilman family for their continued support of the Gouverneur Recreation Center facility.

Also, gratitude was extended to GS&L for the recent contribution to the Gouverneur Recreation Department. Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that the Gouverneur Savings and Loan Association (GS&L) recently applied for and distributed $10,000 grants to five local businesses and organizations in the Gouverneur community. The $50,000 was made available through the 2024 Small Business Recovery Grant (SBRG) program. This grant, provided by the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York, offers substantial financial support to businesses and non-profits across their district.

The next meeting of the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees will be held on Tuesday, October 15, 6 p.m., in the municipal courtroom. For more information, call 315-287-1720.

Notice: Hydrant Flushing in Gouverneur is Oct. 2-3

The following is a public service announcement from the Village of Gouverneur:

The Village of Gouverneur Department of Public Works wishes to inform residents that hydrant flushing will be done during the day, from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 2, 2024 and then again from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 3, 2024.

Residents may notice a loss of water pressure and a slight discoloration of the water. While the water is safe to drink, residents are encouraged to hold off on doing white laundry.

“Thank you for your cooperation and we are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause,” DPW Supt. TJ Simmons said. If you have any further questions, you can contact the Department of Public Works at 287-0110.

Village board hears GPD report

by Rachel Hunter

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees at its Sept. 17 meeting heard the monthly report from the Gouverneur Police Department.

Village of Gouverneur Chief of Police Darren Fairbanks reported the following: “The last week of August 2024, members of the Gouverneur Police Department participated in a multi-agency training held at Clifton-Fine Central School in Star Lake, New York, and were trained Active Shooter scenarios. Thank you to the St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office for the invitation and having my agencies participation in that event.

“For the month of August 2024, the Gouverneur PD received 477 calls for service 269 of those calls for service required police intervention. 151 of those calls for service were IBR criminal complaints (on average 25 new criminal investigations per officer for the month with 52 concurrent investigations previously reported). The PD effected 23 arrests for a total of 36 charges - Felony- 8, Misdemeanors- 13, Violations- 2, Infractions- 6, Bench/ Arrest Warrants- 0, Fugitive From Justice – 1 (United States Marshal Service).

“In the month of August 2024, the Gouverneur PD responded to and investigated 16 motor vehicle collisions.

“In the month of August 2024, the Gouverneur PD responded to 9 incidents inside and outside the Village of Gouverneur due to outside law enforcement not being available or to provide assistance to outside law enforcement and 18 incidents involving the Gouverneur Fire Department and or Gouverneur Rescue Squad at incidents requiring our presence.

“We received 51 requests for general welfare or mental health checks in which 12 were determined mental health related. Of the 12 mental health calls our agency took 7 into custody for emergency involuntary evaluation with all 7 being by police observation/investigation. 2 were individuals under 18 years of age and 0 repeats. There were 0 attempts at utilizing the Mobile Access Program.

“There were two reported non-fatal drug overdoses inside the Village of Gouverneur.

“I would also like to commend my staff for their hard work and dedication in ensuring that the students and staff had a safe return to school on Monday with the recent events and social media threats involving Gouverneur Central School District. I’d like to thank the New York State Police, St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office, NYS Police BCI, and our federal law enforcement partners for their assistance this weekend.”

Much gratitude was extended to Chief Fairbanks for this monthly report, and for answering questions that followed at the monthly village board meeting.

The next regular meeting of the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees will be held on Tuesday, October 15, 6 p.m., in the municipal courtroom. For more information, call 315-287-1630.

Village board hears property maintenance officer report

by Rachel Hunter

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees at its Aug. 20 meeting heard a report from the Village of Gouverneur’s Property Maintenance Officer Glen Besaw.

“I wrote six more tickets,” he said. “Four more properties were inspected, and this Thursday (Aug. 22) will be a very busy day in court. I think we have like six cases coming to court. Some of them have been dragging a long time. Hopefully, some of them will be taken care of this week… I have noticed that some people that I have contacted lately have been more than willing to comply without having to take any action on them. So maybe we are making some headway there. Hopefully that is a bright spot for us. I found that, by working in the evenings, it is easier to make contact with people. So I’ll be doing that. This evening, I’ll go and see six more people. Hopefully we will have some success in court. And hopefully word will get out, and people will become even more willing to comply.”

Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall then opened the floor for questions.

Village Trustee Troy Besaw said: “So, you seem to be getting a good response then for some of these individuals that are getting in front of a judge?”

“It’s finally that some of them are coming around,” PMO Besaw said. “I think they realize that we are not going away.”

“That’s good,” Trustee Besaw. “It’s a slow process.”

PMO Besaw said, “It’s not our court’s fault or anything like that. It’s just the system we have through the state.”

“You have been in the court with some of these people four times, correct?” Trustee Besaw said.

“Oh yeah,” PMO Besaw said.

“Holy man,” Trustee Besaw said. “That’s not a cheap venture for the village in any stretch of the imagination.”

“Yeah,” PMO Besaw said. “I think they are getting the point that it’s not going to go away. They have to comply sometime.”

Trustee Besaw said: “I would hope so… thanks!”

There was no further discussion on PMO Besaw’s monthly report.

The next regular meeting of the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees will be held on Tuesday, September 17, 6 p.m., at the municipal courtroom. A public hearing on Local Law No. 2 of 2024 (Establishing Burning Regulations) will be held at 5:55 p.m. For more information, call 315-287-1720.

Town of Gouverneur tentatively approves $30K micro-enterprise loan for upgrades to Rossie-Gouverneur Area Dog Pound

by Rachel Hunter

The Town of Gouverneur at its Aug. 13 meeting tentatively approved the micro-enterprise loan application for Dog Control Officer Daniel Moyer to make state-mandated upgrades to the Rossie-Gouverneur Area Dog Pound.

The town board unanimously approved the loan in the amount of $30,000 at zero percent interest. The loan is tentative upon Gouverneur Area Development Council (GADC) approval. The funds will be used towards the purchase of a Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) unit, which needs to be installed by December 31, 2024 due to new state regulations.

Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that Dan Moyer is the dog control officer in 19 municipalities, and a total of 22 municipalities utilize the Rossie-Gouverneur Area Dog Pound. Starting in 2025, the New York State Department of Ag & Markets says animal shelters need to meet certain specifications in order to operate. The Rossie-Gouverneur Area Dog Pound needs a laundry list of upgrades, including a HVAC system and more.

During the Aug. 13 town board meeting, DCO Moyer said the following: “I can’t fail… I told the State that I will not fail, due to the fact that all of these towns that I deal with, including (the Town of Gouverneur, there’s nobody to take your dogs. The SPCA is full to their hat. Potsdam is full. They’ve got no room. And I’ll be honest with you, right now, I have six empty kennels right now in the facility. I was glad to get the three dogs out this last week from Gouverneur, because I need the space. I also deal with the Watertown SPCA with the Town of LeRay. They were putting dogs in the aisles, and it is just: We don’t know what to do. We don’t know where to go.

“These improvements are needed for the health and wellbeing of the dogs… We are only supposed to be a two-week holding facility until the owner claims the dog, or the dog goes to another facility like Gracious Friends Animal Sanctuary, Friends 4 Pound Paws, or Potsdam or Watertown. But they can’t take them. We’ve got some dogs that have been in the pound. There’s one from Gouverneur that has been in the pound since October. My wife and I don’t believe in euthanizing these dogs, unless it is court-ordered. We are holding them longer, and we are holding them on our dime. People are not claiming them. They are getting adopted. Friends 4 Pound Paws, God bless them, just took a dog last month that was on the euthanization list. They turned around and said that it was one of the best dogs they ever have had in. And they got it adopted out. Gracious Friends took three pit-bull puppies the other day. They didn’t have room for the mother, but they knew they could move the puppies. It’s just… we don’t know where to go. We have no idea.”

DCO Moyer is working with the Town of Gouverneur to apply for grant money through the New York State Department of Ag and Markets to fund the upgrades. But he told the Town of Gouverneur that needs a plan, just in case the funds don’t come through by the year’s end. That’s why he applied for grant money through the Town’s micro-enterprise loan program.

“I don’t know how many of you know my situation,” DCO Moyer said. “Last spring, we lost the garage and the horse barn. I’ve rebuilt that. So far, we’ve put almost $15,000 to $20,000 of our own into this facility because it is a viable operation. We believe it. Yeah, when this HVAC system comes in, it is going to raise the electric bill. It is going to raise the fuel bill. Some of the towns might have to pay more for the services that we offer. But I have explained that to them, and 99 percent of them are understanding of that.”

Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman Jr. said: “It is either that or they have to build their own facility. That would be $200,000 just for a facility and then you have to hire employees, pay the utilities… And if we do that, we are looking at a lot more cost.”

DCO Moyer continued, saying: “Not to brag, but most of these towns like me as a dog warden. If they don’t use me as a facility, and I pick up a dog for example in Rossie or Edwards, and have to take it to Potsdam, that is two hours out of my day. I wouldn’t be able to do the towns. They would be hiring another dog warden. While that is not a bad thing in some instances, I don’t want to see that happen. It is so much more convenient for me to pick up the dog in Gouverneur, Rossie, go home, put it in the pound. I eat dinner, go down and take care of them. I go in the morning to take care of them before I have breakfast. I am not driving all over the place… In a nutshell, I need a hand. Consider it, please.”

Supervisor Spilman said: “Our micro-enterprise loans are not like bank loans. We have the right to set the interest rate on them. We don’t have to use prime as a marker. Our last two loans have come in at four percent. I suggest that, because Dan does do the service he does for us, for the community – that we consider a zero percent loan.” After some discussion, the Town of Gouverneur Council unanimously approved the $30,000 loan, tentative upon GADC approval, at zero percent interest.

“I wasn’t expecting zero percent,” DCO Moyer said. “Thank you.”

“We are a small community,” Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr. said during the discussion. “We all need to take care of each other.”

There was no further discussion.

The next regular meeting of the Town of Gouverneur Council will be held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, September 10 at the Town of Gouverneur Offices Building, 1227 US Highway 11, Gouverneur. For more information, call 315-287-2340.

Wildcat News: Gouverneur CSD summer school programs a success

by Rachel Hunter

The success of the Gouverneur Central School District’s summer school programs were reported to the Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education at its Aug. 19 meeting.

Gouverneur Elementary School Principal Rich Trowbridge said the following: “First of all, I would like to say thank you very much for supporting the summer school program. It is a great feeling to know that our kids are somewhere for three days per week getting food and being cared for. So, thank you. We make it fun or we wouldn’t have the numbers that we have. We floated right around 70 kids per day. We were down a little bit during Fair Week and Swim Week, but that is understandable. We make it fun. Basically, we come in. We make the kids breakfast. We do 30-45 minutes of Math and ELA. We have a bit of fun at recess. We feed them, and then we send them home. So they are getting two meals, three days per week, which is awesome for some of our students. I think the teachers go out of their way to make sure the students are enjoying themselves. We had field trips to Timbernook, which the kids absolutely adored. We walked to the Fair to see the animals. We walked to the bank. We walked to New York Pizzeria to make some pizza. We had a day of swimming. One of our teachers made solar s’mores on a cardboard box and aluminum foil. It was super cool and worked awesome. We had a food truck frenzy week, which you had to be there to understand. We had an ice cream social. It is just a lot of fun. The kids have a good time. The best part is, because they are having such a good time, I don’t have a lot of discipline. I get to go, enjoy and laugh with the kids. The teachers really do an amazing job. The perfect example is that our numbers stay high. Last year, we had 80 students all summer. This year, we sent fourth grade to the middle school. So, for us to have 70, we probably had a better turnout than we really did last year. I just wanted to say thank you.” Principal Trowbridge then encouraged the Board to view a photo slideshow when time allowed.

Gouverneur Middle School Principal Michael Hammond reported the following: “Good evening Board of Education members, Supt. Kelly, and community. I am pleased to present the summer school program at the Middle School for the 2024 session. This summer, our group was a tremendous success, thanks to the hard work and dedication of our employees and the enthusiasm from our students. First, let’s highlight Physical Education, which was led by Mr. Devlin. This summer, students participated in 30-minute sessions that included a range of activities from volleyball, basketball, kickball, and frisbee. The programs emphasized hand-eye and foot-eye coordination, cardiovascular exercise, and teamwork. A rememberable experience was had at the high school during their trip to the pool where students enjoyed a Swim Day after they were tested by Mr. Devlin and the lifeguards. The students thoroughly enjoyed this culminating activity of their physical education experience.

“Next, our reading program was managed by Mrs. Baer. She worked with small groups of fourth to sixth grade students on intensive word work, including word parts, segmenting, blending, and vocabulary strategies. These students engaged in interactive word games, reading short stories, and various writing exercises.

“We were lucky to have a Life Skills and Special Ed program this year at the Middle School, led by Mrs. Buckmaster and supported by an exceptional team of TA’s – Mrs. Rose, Mrs. Simmons, Mrs. Kirpatrick, and Mrs. O’Donnell Thompson. The program provided students with practical skills and academic support. They participated in writing activities, reading comprehension exercises, and math lessons focused on real-life applications. Special projects included a walking field trip to Save-A-Lot to practice store etiquette. Students had a special event with Dr. Ben, who demonstrated gravity and forces through engaging experiments, like the egg protection using cushions and parachutes. Students also made lemonade for teachers, and participated in many activities.

“Fourth grade, as Mr. Trowbridge said, we welcomed to the Middle School this summer. That enrichment program was led by Ms. Cognetti (ELA and Science), Mrs. Stowell (Math and Social Studies), and supported by Mrs. Zira. The program included activities such as math fluency fact kit games, ELA reading of “The Chocolate Touch” and “Phoebe The Spy,” science experiments like the potato ring challenge and the aluminum foil boat challenge. Students created posters on the States and had various exercises in math concepts and interactive activities.

“In sixth grade, our enrichment program was hosted by Mr. Shattuck (Math) and Mrs. Devlin (ELA). They provided a well-rounded curriculum. Mr. Shattuck focused on reviewing ratios, unit rates and proportionality through problem solving activities. Mrs. Devlin led students in reading “Bud, Not Buddy” by Christopher Paul Curtis and exploring historical contexts, such as the Great Depression, and jazz music.”

“Our seventh and eighth grade general education enrichment and credit recovery programs were led by Ms. Anson (Math), Mrs. Neiss (ELA), and supported by Mrs. Byrns. They also delivered comprehensive instruction. Ms. Anson focused on reviewing math skills from seventh grade to prepare students for algebra, with practical applications such as budgeting and portfolio creations. The ELA students explored the Olympics and wrote research essays on athletes. Mrs. Neiss’ ELA credit-recovery students completed a novel study, practicing editing, summarizing and vocabulary skills.

“In conclusion, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to all the staff members who contributed their time, effort and expertise in making this summer program a success. We averaged 50-60 students each week. Their dedication has made a significant impact on our students’ academic and personal growth. Thank you for your attention.”

“Thank you,” Gouverneur CSD Board of Education President David Fenlong said, and opened the floor for comments from the board members present.

Board Member Laurie Roberts said: “It was such a beautiful summer. It was either blistering hot or raining hard. I am sure some of those days were hard, but I appreciate the comments on incorporating social etiquette. I know a lot of kids don’t get that opportunity, so I appreciate the time and organization it took to go to those places. It sounds like a lot of fun, and when kids are having fun, sometimes they don’t realize that they are learning. So I appreciate that took place as well. Hopefully that summer slide that a lot of kids suffer... those kids won’t suffer that summer slide as they face the academics in the fall. So, thank you for keeping that attendance up. It means a lot that those kids are coming to school and choosing to come here on those nice summer days. Thank you to everybody who had a hand in that.”

There were no further comments from the Board, and Board President Fenlong concluded the Wildcat News report with the following: “We appreciate everything you do, especially in the summer and all year round. Thank you.”

During public comment, Supt. Kelly read the following letter from Tina French: “Dear Mrs. Kelly, I am extremely grateful for the time and money the district has spent to invest in our students this summer. From my household, I had one attend elementary summer school and my older boys were able to attend both football and wrestling camps, as well as take advantage of the fitness center hours and summer football practices. This would not have been possible without the support of the district. I hope that in the future, we can look into being able to offer these opportunities again, as I am sure my children weren’t the only ones to benefit. As a full-time working mother with a husband who travels at least three weeks of every month, it is difficult to provide these opportunities without support. Had we not been provided with these opportunities, my children would have been home or with their grandmother unengaged and unmotivated. On behalf of all who were able to benefit from summer schools and the multiple district-supported sports camps, I truly thank you. I also want to extend a thank you to the many staff who support our students in multiple avenues without compensation and truly just for the good of the students and the growth of the district. My children have benefited immensely from the generosity from this district and its supporters. Again, I say thank you and appreciate all that is done to make this happen.”

“We appreciate all positive comments,” Gouverneur CSD Board of Education President David Fenlong said, expressing gratitude to all those who made the summer opportunities possible.

In other news:

The Board approved the Gouverneur Central School District School Safety Plan for the 2024-25 school year. A public hearing was held on July 22, 2024. No additional comments were received. The only change to the posted drafted was an update to the safety team members reflecting new administrators. Upon presentation and recommendation by Gouverneur CSD Superintendent of Schools Jackie Kelly, the Board of Education approved the School Safety Plan for 2024-25 to be submitted to the New York State Board of Education Department and distributed to specified agencies, as presented.

The Board, upon presentation and recommendation of Supt. Kelly, approved a series of personnel items. This included the resignations of 6-Hour Food Service Helper Connie A. Davis (effective July 31, 2024), Grade 4 Elementary Teacher Morgan Hutton (effective August 2), Secondary Art Teacher Alexis Ritter (effective August 8), and Reading Teacher Candace J. Grant (effective August 26).

The Board accepted the resignation of Rachel Curry from her position as Elementary teacher (Middle School Math AIS) and appointed Rachel Curry to the probationary position of Middle School Assistant Principal, effective August 26, 2024.

The Board approved a series of instructional appointments, including the following High School Business Teacher Angela Bicklehaupt LaJoy (effective September 3), Elementary Teacher to Reading Teacher Caitlyn Sullivan (effective September 3), Elementary Teacher Lindsey McCormick (effective September 3), Elementary Teacher Jennie Dalton (effective September 3), Elementary Teacher Ashley Barr (effective September 3), STEM Teacher Benjamin Reed (effective September 3), Title I .30 FTE Teacher – St. James Judith Tomford (effective September 3), Individual Aide to Teaching Assistant Wendy Stowell (effective September 3), Teacher Aide to Teaching Assistant Kara L. Mashaw (effective September 3), Individual Aide to Teaching Assistant Sarah Scott (effective September 3).

The Board also made the following non-instructional appointments: The Board appointed Kathryn Stubbs to the 12-month Secretary I position, effective August 28. The Board modified the appointment of Janice S. Rushlo, 6-hour Food Service Helper to the position of Courier/Food Service Helper (12-month), effective August 21. The Board appointed the following individuals as teacher aides, effective September 3: Tracy McCarthy, Caitlin Cardinell, Alyssa Edick, and Pam Doty. The Board appointed the following individuals as individual aides, effective September 3: Alexandria Klimowicz, Roxanne Todd, Amber Hosmer (pending completion of all new hire requirements), Grace Holmes (pending completion of all new hire requirements), Michelle Deaton (pending completion of all new hire requirements), and Jamie Mitchell.

The Board approved a series of substitutes and tutors for the 2024-25 school year. Returning substitutes are Patricia Bush, Sheila Callahan, Nathan Gates, Laney Smith, and Joe Wahl. The Board appointed Valerie Graves for up to 10 days for clerical support. The Board appointed Melissa Raymo for up to 10 days for clerical support. The Board appointed the following new substitutes, pending completion of all requirements: Kayla Absalon, Shannon Bishop, Jessica Currier, Riannon Holly, Dede Scozzafava, Lindsey Mandigo, and Madison Hurlbut. The Board approved the following returning tutors: Jessica Miller, Marie Moore, Kenneth Nicholas, Desiree Simmons, Ling Wu, Cherie Zira, Brittany Buckmaster, Lisa Carbone, Christine Cognetti, Lisa Dunkelberg, Julie Neiss, Jennifer (Maude) Palumbo, Kim Reed, Melinda Schiszler, Beth Siebels, Pam Stevens, Saddie Whitaker, and Terri Whitaker.

The Board appointed the following personnel for summer Regents review: Matt Miller, Global History (Monday and Wednesday).

The Board approved a revision to the American Rescue Act Summer Academic and Enrichment Camp Directors, funded through ARP: Joseph Wahl, Volleyball Camp, for an additional week of camp due to the number of participants.

The Board had its first reading of several policies that have been reviewed. The Board is recommended to delete Policy 1630 (Absentee Ballots), 6212.1 Incidental Teaching), and 7513 (Medication and Personal Care Items). The following policies were revised: 5620 (Fixed Asset Inventories, Accounting, and Tracking), 5685 (Use of Surveillance Cameras), 6192 (Workplace Violence Prevention Policy Statement), 6470 (Staff Use of Computerized Information Resources and Email), 7210 (Promotion and Retention of Student), 7370 (Student Use of Computerized Information Resources), 7521 (Students with Life-Threatening Health Conditions), 7530 (Child Abuse and Maltreatment), 8260 (Title I Parent & Family Engagement), and 8271 (Internet Safety and Internet Content Filtering Policy). The following policies – 5670 (Records Management), 5672 (Information Security Breach and Notification), 5673 (Employee Personal Identifying Information), 5674 (Data Networks and Security Access) – remain unchanged.

The Board approved the tax warrant for 2024-25 in the amount of $7,139,239 ($7,066,189 school, $73,050 library).

The Board approved participation in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) Program for 2024-25. Breakfast and lunch meals will be served to all students at no cost. Breakfast for an adult is $2.95 plus tax. Lunch for an adult is $5.09 plus tax.

The Board authorized petty cash funds for the following: Tax Collector Rachel Scott ($200).

The Board changed the location of several board, originally at the Gouverneur High School auditorium. The meeting will still begin at 5:30 p.m. Meetings on November 18 and March 3 will be held in the Gouverneur Middle School Cafeteria. Meetings on December 9 and March 17 will be held in the Gouverneur Elementary School cafeteria.

The Gouverneur Central School District will welcome students for the first day of school on Sept. 5. Also announced was Freshman Orientation (Aug. 28), New Teacher Orientation (Aug. 29), Pre-K and Kindergarten Orientation (Sept. 3), Grades 1-4 Orientation (Sept. 3), Middle School Orientation (Sept. 3), Sept. 3-4 (Staff Development) Days. The next regular meeting of the Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education will be held on September 9, 5:30 p.m., at the Gouverneur High School auditorium. For more information, visit www.gcsk12.org.

7th Annual Johnny’s Ride is Saturday

by Rachel Hunter

The 7th Annual Johnny’s Ride will be held this Saturday, August 24, starting at 10 a.m. from the James Maloy American Legion Post No. 65 in Gouverneur. Sign-ups will be at the Gouverneur Legion on August 23, 5 to 8 p.m., and August 24, 8 to 10 a.m. The cost is a $20 donation per bike or car.

Johnny’s Ride is held annually in memory of John J. “Johnny” Washburn, who passed away in 2017 at the age of 47. John graduated from Gouverneur High School and worked locally at DJ Walters Chevrolet and for the Village of Gouverneur. He enjoyed four-wheeling, motorcycling, and spending time with his friends and family. He was a member of the Gouverneur Vol. Firemen Exempts.

Gouverneur Village Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn told the Gouverneur Tribune Press has reported that all proceeds from the 7th Annual Johnny’s Ride will benefit “Johnny’s Kids” and go to support improvements at Mills Park, located on Johnstown St., on the west side of town. A playground fund in memory of John J. Washburn was established in 2022, and there is great anticipation to see a playground built on the west side of town for the community’s youth. Monetary donations can be given at any time to the Village of Gouverneur to make this playground happen and put smiles on children’s faces. This year, all proceeds will go to the Mills Park Playground Fund in honor of the late Johnny Washburn and Former Gouverneur Village Trustee Nelson Lawrence. Kickstands will go up at 10 a.m., and all vehicles are more than welcome to participate.

The Chicken BBQ at the American Legion will start at 1 p.m. The Chicken BBQ is included with the sign-in fee, with a limit of two people per bike/vehicle registered. The Chicken BBQ is also open to the public. There will also be raffle tickets available for purchase (50-50, guns and more). Much gratitude is extended to the North Country community for their ongoing support. It was noted by Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall at the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees meeting on Aug. 20. For more information on the 7th Annual Johnny’s Ride, call or text Josh (315-323-6895) or Shelly (315-323-3543) with any questions.

All those interested in making a donation to the Mills Park Playground Fund can do so at any time to the Village of Gouverneur, 33 Clinton St., Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Ryan’s Wish Foundation Annual Golf Tournament to be held this Saturday

by Rachel Hunter

The 2024 Ryan’s Wish Foundation Annual Golf Tournament will be held at Emerald Greens’ 18-hole golf course in Gouverneur on Saturday, August 17, 10 a.m., to raise funds to help those diagnosed with cancer and serious illnesses throughout St. Lawrence, Jefferson, Franklin and Lewis counties.

Dr. Robert Saidel and his wife Rita founded Ryan’s Wish Foundation in memory of their son, who strived to live life to the fullest even as he battled cancer. Ryan Saidel from Gouverneur, NY was diagnosed with neuroblastoma when he was 14 years old and fought the disease for five years before he passed at age 19 on February 7, 2004. During his five-year struggle, Ryan touched the lives of countless people. To those around him, Ryan defined the word courage as he lived his life inspiring others to make the best of each and every day.

A year after Ryan’s death, the Ryan’s Wish Foundation was created to celebrate Ryan’s inspirational life, and is dedicated to helping others who are battling a serious illness “play and live strong.”

Many throughout the North Country community know of someone within the local area who has been helped from the Ryan’s Wish Foundation. The foundation continues to help literally hundreds of people and their families within the North Country. The Ryan’s Wish Foundation (501 (C) (3) nonprofit organization) is created to celebrate the inspirational life of Ryan Saidel. The foundation is dedicated to helping people who are battling a serious illness to “play and live strong.” The Foundation serves people in the tri-county areas of Northern New York: Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence Counties. Funds received from the Foundation can help offset traveling costs and other expenses incurred by individuals and their families during treatment or hospitalization.

The 2024 Ryan’s Wish Foundation Annual Golf Tournament will follow a 4 Team Captain & Crew format. Cost is $75 per member or $300 per team. All donations are appreciated. The tournament will be held on Saturday, August 17, 10 a.m., at Emerald Greens Golf Course in Gouverneur.

NYS Ag Commissioner Visits County Fair

by Rachel Hunter

New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball visited the 2024 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair on Friday, August 2.

The Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Association warmly welcomed NYS Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball. The fair board shared their gratitude for the state funding that has allowed for many upgrades to the fairgrounds in recent years, including the new dairy cattle barn in 2024 and infrastructure improvements.

Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Manager Don Peck (who serves as NYS Association of Agricultural Fairs District 3 Director) and Gouverneur Fair President Beth Martin led NYS Ag Commissioner Ball on a fairgrounds tour, stopping at the cattle barns, FFA Building, 4-H Youth Building, Dairy Princess Booth, and more. Commissioner Ball also had the opportunity to talk with St. Lawrence County Dairy Promotion, 4-H’ers, FFA members, dairy cattle exhibitors, etc. In addition to the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Association, those joining the tour included North Country dignitaries: Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall, NYS Assemblyman (AD 116) Scott Gray (R-Watertown), NYS Senator Mark Walczyk’s Office (Mike Schenk). Also in attendance was Elizabeth Wolters, Deputy Commissioner for the Department of Agriculture and Markets.

Richard A. Ball was nominated as Commissioner of the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets in 2014. A native New Yorker, Mr. Ball has made a living in agriculture his entire life. His inspiration to become a farmer came from his grandparents, who were lifelong dairy farmers. At 18 years old, Mr. Ball began his own career in agriculture as a farm worker on a vegetable farm. He later became operations manager of that same farm. After 20 years there, in 1993 the opportunity arose to be a farm owner and for the past 30 years, he has been the owner and operator of Schoharie Valley Farms in Schoharie, NY, which consists of 200 acres and produces a wide range of vegetable crops, small fruits and greenhouse crops. The farm serves both retail and wholesale consumers through an onsite farm market and ships to brokers and restaurants in the local area as well as New York City. Mr. Ball has held a number of positions within agriculture and community organizations at the local, state and national level, including the New York State Vegetable Growers Association, the New York Farm Bureau, the American Farm Bureau and the Schoharie County Chamber of Commerce. He served as the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) 2021-2022 President, where he helped guide the implementation of NASDA’s priorities and additional policies adopted at NASDA’s 2021 annual meeting. He is also the former President of Food Export Northeast. Mr. Ball along with his wife, Shirley, reside on the farm in Schoharie and appreciate having three generations engaged in the farm operation.

More than 75 persons arrived on Friday, August 2 at the Harry Parow Cattle Show Ring on the Gouverneur Fairgrounds to hear from NYS Ag Commissioner Ball and other dignitaries including Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall, NYS Assemblyman (AD 116) Scott Gray (R-Watertown), NYS Senator Mark Walczyk’s Office (Mike Schenk).

“Thank you so much, everyone, for the warm welcome,” Commissioner Ball said, extending gratitude to the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Association for the fairgrounds tour. “I have to tell you that you have good leadership in this county – the Assemblyman, fair director, and your mayor here. I don’t have to stop and explain agriculture… It’s great to be here on behalf of the governor, and on behalf of the rest of our agricultural community. The governor’s been to my farm, and we’ve talked quite a bit about agriculture. And we’ve talked an awful lot about the fairs. At the Department in the last few years, we’ve really made an effort to try to communicate better with Albany about what’s important to our farmers, and to let our farmers know what is going on in Albany. The governor and I have talked many times about the fairs. This year, we’ve got some pretty good initiatives. We want to make sure that agriculture remains the center of our fairs – our fair system, all our county fairs and our state fair together. We need more young people that think with their head and their hands in our farm communities, in our manufacturing facilities across the state. This is an opportunity to connect dots with young people and consumers on what you do every day in agriculture.”

Commissioner Ball added, “It is very fun for me to be here. Thank you for what you do. The North Country is an important part of New York. Rural America is an important part of it too… We live, we work, we farm a couple hours away from the most amazing, most diverse and biggest marketplace anywhere in the world. I can’t think of a better time, even though it is a challenging time, to be involved in agriculture… There’s no place in the country that I would rather farm than New York State. Thank you for what you do in agriculture. Thank you for what you are doing at the fair here. Let’s grow our fairs, and help keep agriculture as a viable life for the next generation. Thank you very much. It is great to be with you.”

Thunderous applause sounded in appreciation of Commissioner Ball’s address to farmers in St. Lawrence County.

For more information on the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair, visit www.gouverneurfair.net.