Gouverneur Lions Club present Robert J. Uplinger Distinguished Service award to Dan and Tina Mullin

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Lions Club awarded the Robert J. Uplinger Distinguished Service Award to Dan and Tina Mullin of Mullin’s Restaurant in Gouverneur at a special ceremony on April 14.

“We give out these awards to people who exemplify what Lions are about,” Gouverneur Lions Club President Betsy Cummings said.

The Lions Club Robert J. Uplinger Distinguished Service Award was established in 1993. The award honors outstanding individuals (both Lions and non-Lions) or organizations who provide a significant service to their Club, District or Community. The award presentation included an engraved plaque and a letter of congratulations from the New York State & Bermuda Lions Foundation, Inc., along with a commemorative lapel pin.

Robert J. Uplinger became a member of the Syracuse Lions Club in 1946 where he served as Club president, Zone Chairman, and District Governor. He became a Lions International Director in 1964-66 and then he was elected to the prominent office as Lions International President in 1971-72. Uplinger was an industrial engineer and the owner/operator of Robert J. Uplinger, Inc., a distributor of power transmission equipment.

The letter from New York State & Bermuda Lions Foundation President Lion Richard Steger reads as follows: “Dear Danny and Tina, the officers and members of the New York State and Bermuda Lions Foundation extend congratulations for being named a recipient of the Robert J. Uplinger Distinguished Service Award by the Gouverneur Lions Club for “recognition for all you have done to fulfill the needs in the community and for helping our Lions Club.” You are among those who are honored by Lions and Lionesses for generous service. The Robert J. Uplinger Distinguished Service Award affirms your strong interest, dedication, and service to others through Lionism. The Robert J. Uplinger pin will identify you as someone who has done more than his share and truly believes in the motto of Lionism, “We Serve.” The donations to the Robert J. Uplinger Distinguished Service Award Program are a significant monetary source of the Foundation and these funds are returned to the Lions Clubs through grants to further Lionistic work. Congratulations and our best wishes to you as an honoree.”

The Mullins extended much gratitude for the award, which they hung proudly in the dining area for all to see. The Gouverneur Lions Club members told the Mullins it was a “well-deserved honor” for their dedicated service to the Gouverneur community.

For more information on Mullin’s Restaurant in Gouverneur, call 315-287-0063.

Stewart’s Holiday Match Program allocates $1,000 to Grace Food Pantry

by Rachel Hunter

Grace Food Pantry Founder Pastor Robert LaVeck accepting a $1,000 from Gouverneur Stewart’s Shop Store Manager. The funds were allocated from the Stewarts Holiday Match Program. The funding will go to help purchase food for those in need throughout the North Country. (Rachel Hunter photo)

Stewart’s Holiday Match Program allocated $1,000 to the Grace Food Pantry in Gouverneur. The check has been presented, and the funds will be used to purchase food items for those in need throughout the North Country region.

The Grace Food Pantry in Gouverneur is just one of more than 60 organizations in St. Lawrence County to benefit from the Stewart’s Holiday Match Program. The program, in total, was able to allocate a total of $1.88 million to a total of 1,715 organizations this year. Over $32 million has been granted since 1986. From Thanksgiving Day through Christmas Day, Stewart’s customers impressively donated over $941,000 to the program. Each individual donation is matched penny for penny by Stewart’s Shops. There are no administrative costs and 100% of the funds benefit local, non-profit children’s organizations. For more information, visit stewartsshops.com.

The Grace Food Pantry has been in operation since 1999 in the basement of the Christian Life Fellowship Church, 52 Church St., Gouverneur, under the direction of Pastor Robert LaVeck. For over 20 years, the mission of the Grace Food Pantry has always been about more than just food – providing for the physical needs and spiritual concerns of the North Country community as well. The large operation is run on volunteer support. The operation takes up the entire church basement. A total of 25 freezers and refrigerators are running. Each month, local residents receive a full package of food items, including fruit, vegetables, dairy, meat, bread items, and so much more. Weekly, local residents are invited to “glean” needed items such as bread, dairy items and frozen meat. Much gratitude is extended to all those who support the work of the Grace Food Pantry in Gouverneur.

Volunteer help and financial assistance is needed now, perhaps more than ever before, due to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. The food pantry is open every Thursday from 9 to 11:45 a.m. and by appointment. Masks and temperature tests are available as well as hand sanitizing stations throughout the facility. For more information or to learn how you can donate, call Pastor LaVeck at 315-287-7656.

DOT Physical By Appt business opens in Gouverneur

Rachel Raven, FNP-C, opens DOT Physical by Appt in the Gouverneur Mini Mall this week. (Rachel Hunter photo)

by Rachel Hunter

“DOT Physical By Appt” has opened in the Gouverneur Mini Mall, 137 East Main St., Gouv.

“The purpose of the business is to perform CDL physicals for truck drivers and bus drivers,” said owner Rachel Raven, FNP-C. “We are also doing drug tests which can be done by individual request or contracting with employers.”

The business will also offer group discounts for employers on CDL physicals.

The business is open Monday through Saturday, by appointment only. Appointments can be scheduled by calling or texting 315-323-7360. The business is located at 137 East Main St., which is the mini-mall next to Northern Federal Credit Union. Raven said the business is in Pamela Strouse’s old office.

Veterans bestowed honor for 50 years of continuous American Legion membership

by Rachel Hunter

The National American Legion on Sunday, March 14 recognized two local veterans for 50 years of continuous membership. The honor was bestowed upon Michael F. Gaebel and Ronald J. Hartle by James Maloy American Legion Post No. 65 Commander Jason Carvel and 1st Vice Commander Jeff Dusharm during a special ceremony at the Legion home. American Legion members extended congratulations to the two veterans on the auspicious occasion.

“Today’s a very special day,” Commander Carvel said. “It’s a really big deal, “Elvis” Ronald J. Hartle and Mike Gaebel have been continuous members of this Legion for 50 years…” Much applause echoed in the American Legion rooms at the announcement. “It’s such a big deal that the national Legion commander and adjutant signed these certificates of achievement, mailed them to me, and wanted me to present them today on their behalf.”

Both veterans said that they were drafted.

Commander Carvel informed all gathered that Mr. Hartle was drafted in 1966 and served in Vietnam. He joined the American Legion in 1971, and has enjoyed serving as an active member at the James Maloy American Legion Post No. 65. He is a past commander, and still serves in various officer roles and executive committee roles at the Legion.

“His help is invaluable,” Commander Carvel said. “We appreciate you.”

Mr. Hartle extended gratitude to Commander Carvel for the recognition.

Commander Carvel then turned his attention to Mike Gaebel, who got drafted in 1970 and was sent to Germany. Commander Carvel said that Gaebel was part of the firing squad at the American Legion for many years, and also served as a vice commander at one time. He continues to be an active member at the James Maloy American Post No. 65.

“These guys know how important this Legion is to not only themselves, but us, the whole community,” Commander Carvel said. “You guys are something for all of us to look up to. We all appreciate who you guys are and what you guys represent. Thanks for being here.”

The following orders were presented as follows: “Certificate for continuous membership in grateful appreciation for faithful and dedicated allegiance to the ideas of the American Legion. Be it known that Michael F. Gaebel and Ronald J. Hartle, longtime and dedicated members of the American Legion Post No. 65, Department of New York has certified to be members in good standing continuously for 50 years. Be It Foreknown that such record of consistent loyalty to the American Legion merits the honor of being cited as an outstanding contributor to the programs of the American Legion. Witnessed therefore, this testimonial of personal gratitude is given under the hand of the national commander and duly attested by the national adjutant on this 14th day of March, 2021. Signed, James W. Oxford, National Commander of the American Legion.”

As the orders were read, Commander Carvel with the assistance of 1st Vice Commander Dusharm presented the citations to the two veterans.

Much applause sounded once again in recognition of this incredible accomplishment. The veterans then told the American Legion Post No. 65 that they will continue to serve as active members as long as they were able. Mr. Hartle added that his passion for continuous membership in the American Legion came from strong family roots. He said that six members of his family were among the past commanders of the James Maloy American Legion Post No. 65.

The ceremony concluded shortly thereafter with invitations for all those gathered to purchase and enjoy a drink in the bar. For more information on American Legion Post No. 65, call 315-287-4590.

Chief: Dashnaw’s Pizzeria a total loss, but laundromat saved

by Rachel Hunter

Gouverneur Fire Chief Thomas Conklin on the morning of Wednesday, February 24 called the structure fire at Dashnaw’s Pizzeria, located at 174 East Main St., Gouverneur, a total loss. Due to the hard work and efforts of the Gouverneur Fire Department, the laundromat side of the business was saved.

In an interview with the Gouverneur Tribune Press at about 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday morning, Chief Conklin reported the following: “At 3:33 a.m., we were alerted for a structure fire at Dashnaw’s. A passerby called it in. On my arrival, I found fire showing in the roof. Engine 17 got here fairly quickly, and we went in and knocked the main body of the fire down. We stopped the fire from entering the laundromat. The laundromat has no fire damage inside. He is estimating anywhere from $600,000 to $750,000 in laundry equipment was saved. Obviously our goal when we got here was to contain the fire in the affected building. So, we did. We stopped the fire here from entering that way, and knocked the main body of the fire down. Unfortunately, the restaurant is a total loss. But the laundromat, with some electrical fixes and stuff like that, should be able to be up and running in the next few weeks. Our goal, obviously, if you can stop it from entering another business, and it is connected… the guys did a good job. We had every truck out of the department here, about 26 members. We fought the fire ourselves. Richville Fire Department did help us with traffic control. Overall, it is a sad day when a local business is affected like this, but best-case scenario, we put the fire out in the restaurant and we saved their laundromat. There were no injuries. Nobody got hurt. We are just here… I called the state investigators in, because the county fire investigators were not available – and I don’t do our own fires. We wanted to get a good fire investigation done, so we could determine the cause of the fire.”

Chief Conklin told the Gouverneur Tribune Press on Wednesday morning that they would be on scene until about mid-day. “There’s a lot of stuff from the ceiling that we have got to muck out of there,” he said.

More information will be reported once made available to the Gouverneur Tribune Press.

Gouverneur Lions Club presents Robert J. Uplinger Distinguished Service Award to Friends 4 Pound Paws

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Lions Club presents Friends 4 Pound Paws in Gouverneur with the Robert J. Uplinger Distinguished Service Award at a special ceremony on Thursday, February 11. From left: Friends 4 Pound Paws President Clover Forsythe, Co-Chair Lynnie Patton, Secretary Dawn Forsythe accept the honor from Gouverneur Lions Club President Betsy Cummings and Treasurer John Johnson. (Rachel Hunter photo)

The Gouverneur Lions Club presented Friends 4 Pound Paws in Gouverneur with the Robert J. Uplinger Distinguished Service Award at a special ceremony on Thursday, February 11.

“The Lions Club knows what goes on, and how dedicated everyone is at Friends 4 Pound Paws,” Gouverneur Lions Club Treasurer John Johnson said.

The Lions Club Robert J. Uplinger Distinguished Service Award was established in 1993. The award honors outstanding individuals (both Lions and non-Lions) or organizations who provide a significant service to their Club, District or Community. The award presentation included an engraved plaque and a letter of congratulations from the New York State & Bermuda Lions Foundation, Inc., along with a commemorative lapel pin.

Robert J. Uplinger became a member of the Syracuse Lions Club in 1946 where he served as Club president, Zone Chairman, and District Governor. He became a Lions International Director in 1964-66 and then he was elected to the prominent office as Lions International President in 1971-72. Uplinger was an industrial engineer and the owner/operator of Robert J. Uplinger, Inc., a distributor of power transmission equipment.

The letter from New York State & Bermuda Lions Foundation President Lion Richard Steger reads as follows: “Dear Friends 4 Pound Paws, the officers and members of the New York State and Bermuda Lions Foundation extend congratulations for being named a recipient of the Robert J. Uplinger Distinguished Service Award by the Gouverneur Lions Club for “recognition and appreciation of the volunteers who give essential care to cats and dogs and who provide a pathway for their adoption.” You are among those who are honored by Lions and Lionesses for generous service. The Robert J. Uplinger Distinguished Service Award affirms your strong interest, dedication, and service to others through Lionism. The Robert J. Uplinger pin will identify you as someone who has done more than his share and truly believes in the motto of Lionism, “We Serve.” The donations to the Robert J. Uplinger Distinguished Service Award Program are a significant monetary source of the Foundation and these funds are returned to the Lions Clubs through grants to further Lionistic work. Congratulations and our best wishes to you as an honoree.”

Lions Club President Betsy Cummings alongside Treasurer Johnson presented the honors to the Friends 4 Pound Paws leadership team – President Clover Forsythe, Co-Chair Lynnie Patton, and Secretary Dawn Forsythe. The plaque inscription reads as follows: “Robert J. Uplinger Distinguished Service Award: Awarded to Friend 4 Pound Paws in recognition and appreciation of the volunteers who give essential care to cats and dogs who provide a pathway for their adoption.”

Friends 4 Pound Paws President Clover Forsythe said she had a perfect spot on the wall to hang the distinguished honor. Applause sounded at the completion of the awards ceremony. “This is an amazing award, and we thank you so much,” President Forsythe said.

Friends 4 Pound Paws President Clover Forsythe informed the Gouverneur Lions Club that Friends 4 Pound Paws would be celebrating their 10-year anniversary in May of 2021.

Friends 4 Pound Paws Inc. was established on May 30, 2011, by a group of concerned citizens, hoping to save the forgotten ones – the local pound dogs. Friends 4 Pound Paws began with a simple desire to “Give our pound dogs a second chance at Life”.

Friends 4 Pound Paws is a 501(c)3 non-profit charitable organization, feline and all-breed canine rescue. Its mission is to help promote adoptions from the Gouverneur, Russell and Fowler Dog Pounds. We have established a foster care program to help save the dogs that have been scheduled for euthanasia. F4PP promotes spaying and neutering as a general ideal, and spays and neuters all dogs and cats that are of age at time of adoption, or enter into a neuter contract with the new adopting families.

All of the rescues receive immediate medical care, vaccinations and lots of love. Friends 4 Pound Paws also accepts owner surrenders of unwanted animals when there are open foster homes. “We will not stop until they all have a home.”

In talking about the Friends 4 Pound Paws location at 55 Owl Street, Gouverneur, President Forsythe said the following: “When these two rooms were built a year ago, in December, we were getting ready to do a grand opening or a grand open house – and then the pandemic started. So we still haven’t done a big open house, so the community can come through. Maybe by May, we will be able to do something… We are excited to celebrate that.”

President Forsythe then directed the attention of the Gouverneur Lions Club leadership to a picture on the wall that showcased the first two dogs that Friends 4 Pound Paws helped – a pitbull and a chihuahua. “Both of those dogs have now passed on, but they both had great lives.” The picture enlargement and the picture frame was constructed by BOCES students at Southwest Tech in Fowler.

President Forsythe then told the Gouverneur Lions Club their 2020 adoption stats. “We had 70 dogs adopted. I had 20 transfers to the Potsdam shelter. In cats, we had about 130 adopted. These are all adopted animals.” In spite of their small size, Friends 4 Pound Paws does tremendous work with the resources that they are given.

President Forsythe also took the Gouverneur Lions Club on a tour of the facility.

“We’ve got 27 cats and three dogs right now,” she said. “We’ve got one that is leaving tomorrow, and getting adopted. There are two new pups. There is one senior dog in like a Hospice-type foster home, a 14 ½ year old, Harriet…

“For the past year, it has been difficult for all kinds of organizations to stay afloat. But we have been really blessed here. We have gotten community support like you would not believe. People come in with money, food… It’s been really amazing.

“In fact one day, it was like March 17, it was when everything started to close. We had to cancel all kinds of fundraisers, but this guy called me and he said, “I have a large donation for you.” I said, okay, I’ll be here tomorrow, and we’ll meet.” An hour later he calls me back and he says, “I would like to come today.” So I came back over and I met him, and he comes in with $5,000 in cash. So it was well worth my trip back. I was hysterical. I was crying and carrying on… And we had some other really good donations since all this started. We’re doing okay here. One thing – we don’t take in any more animals than we can take care of. We have our limits, and there are other shelters around. If I can’t do it or Lynnie can’t, we send them elsewhere.”

Upon questions from the Gouverneur Lions Club, President Forsythe said that foster families are always needed.

“There’s always an option out there,” she said. “I just wish we could get more people to spay and neuter. I really wish that… especially for the cats. It’s awful… You go anywhere in the village, out of town, out in Macomb… I have more people telling me about all the cats out there. But you can only do what you can do.”

The Friends 4 Pound Paws leadership team announced that plans are still a go for their annual spring flower sale. “That is a really good fundraiser,” President Forsythe said. “Pickup is outside. We usually do that the middle of May. And we’ll be doing that flower sale again.”

Friends 4 Pound Paws also raises money through auction, held twice per month, on their Facebook page (Friends 4 Pound Paws Auction). “We’ve been doing auctions now for about four years,” President Forsythe said. “Everything in the auction that we post is donated. It’s unbelievable the stuff that gets donated. We’ll usually generate, in a good month, $1,000. And that pays the bills. That’s really all that anyone can do right now… It’s all volunteer, and that keeps us going.”

The Friends 4 Pound Paws also features an ongoing candy bar fundraiser and candle fundraiser. “Every dollar adds up. It’s amazing at how quickly all that little stuff can add up,” President Forsythe said.

Much gratitude was extended to the Friends 4 Pound Paws for the tour of the shelter facility. For more information on Friends 4 Pound Paws, visit www.friends4poundpaws.org or call 315-842-PAWS.

Gouverneur Lions Club President Betsy Cummings also announced that the Gouverneur Lions Club will host its Spaghetti Dinner (take-out only) will be held on Sunday, March 21, serving from 4 p.m., and includes meatballs, salad and rolls. Call Mullin’s Restaurant to pre-order at 315-286-3393. Cost donation is $10 per meal. All to benefit the Lions Club projects serving the Gouverneur community and beyond. More information will be reported once made available to the Gouverneur Tribune Press.

Gouverneur community to participate in virtual benefit events this week

An insulated hunting shack, donated by Silver Line Spray Foam, positioned outside St. James School this past week drew attention to the upcoming St. James Virtual Gala. This is just one of the items that will be auctioned off on Feb. 13. Registration forms are available at stjamesk-6.org. (Rachel Hunter photo)

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur community is invited to participate this upcoming week in virtual fundraisers for St. James School and the Kiwanis Club of Gouverneur, Inc.

St. James Gala

The first live auction will be held on Saturday, February 13, 7 to 8 p.m., to benefit St. James School. The 2021 St. James Gala is virtual this year, and there is much fun to be had as community members support this small Catholic school with a big heart. There is no charge to register. The online registration form is available at http://stjamesk-6.org/. This event features auctioneer Don Peck and the “live” auction, Treasure Chest Raffle Drawing, and games.

Online auction bidding is also open until Sunday, February 14. Once registered, bidders will receive a link to the online auction. Once registered, a link will be provided to you.

This year, virtual gala attendees may purchase a “Key” raffle ticket. The tickets will be entered into the Treasure Chest Raffle. At the Virtual Gala on Saturday, February 13, 2021, officials will pull one ticket for each of 10 treasure chest prizes. Attendees do not need to be “present” to win. Organizers said there is no limit on the number of key raffle tickets attendees can purchase.

Some prizes include the following:

Jewelry Package by Brown’s Jewelry and Friends of St. James- Cluster of Diamonds totaling 1 carat on a 14 karat white gold chain. Valued at $1,250.

Gas for a Year - 12 $50 gift cards to Philly Fuels, Inc. Valued at $600.

$500 CASH prize -sponsored by BCS Landscaping, Northern Collision, and Friends of St. James.

300 Gallons of Fuel Oil from Bush Fuels.

Romantic Evening in a Jacuzzi Room at the Clearview Motel and dinner at the Casablanca Restaurant. Includes a champagne basket.

Elegant Evening Package includes an overnight stay at the Lawrence Manor, two tickets to the 2022 Gala and hairstyles by Tangles Salon. Includes a gift basket.

Queen for a Day by Tangles Salon and Day Spa, valued at over $300

About Town - $300+ in Gift Certificates at various local vendors.

Something for Him - $300 gift card to Small Town Supply- Ace Hardware.

Corona Deck Party - 48,000 BTU Propane Patio Heater and accessories for a deck party long after the summer nights have passed.

Key raffle tickets are $25 each or five for $100.

The 2021 St. James Virtual Gala will also include a “Play Like Jack” game. Just like in the Titanic movie, Jack wins his boarding pass in a poker game. Attendees can play the Gala version of Texas Hold’Em by purchasing a randomly assigned hand for $10. Attendees will be "dealt" two cards randomly which will be posted at the virtual gala Facebook "live" event. Once all the cards are purchased, the three "community cards" will be displayed. Attendees will pair their two cards with the community cards to determine their hand. The best hand wins half the pot.

2021 St. James Virtual Gala attendees also have the opportunity to become a Tuition Angel to a St. James School student by making a donation of $200. All money will go directly to credit a family's tuition balance who qualifies for tuition assistance based on income or situations, such as a loss of job or family illness.

St. James Parish School, located in Gouverneur, NY, is a private elementary school where faith and education come together. St. James School opened its doors in September 1960. Three Sisters of St. Joseph occupied the convent and taught in the school. One grade each year was added to the school until by 1965 there were eight grades. A kindergarten class was added in 1972. St. James School is a Catholic elementary school providing an excellent education for children in preschool through sixth grade. Joined together in a community of faith, St. James challenges students academically, while encouraging them to embrace the values that Jesus taught: faith in God, prayer and service, love and respect for self and others, compassion, responsibility, integrity, peace and justice. At St. James School, it is their mission to educate the whole child, mind, body, and soul. Today, with the scarcity of teaching sisters, lay teachers are employed at the school. St. James students are encouraged to expand their performing arts through our Christmas musicals, and Fine Arts Festival each year. The youth also actively participate in weekly Masses at church. St. James School has moderate tuition rates and receives tuition assistance from the Bishops Fund, Kremer Foundation Grant, Mater Dei Foundation, and the Msgr. Service Scholarship Fund. The mission of St. James Parish School is to provide a quality Catholic education for students to grow spiritually, academically, socially, and physically, in partnership with families and in harmony with the specific gifts given by God to each student. If you would like more information, please call 315-287-0130 or visit http://stjamesk-6.org/.

Kiwanis Auction

The Kiwanis Club of Gouverneur, Inc. is set to benefit from a “live” virtual auction on Wednesday, February 17, at 5 p.m.. Gouverneur Kiwanis Club President Charity Zawatski announced this week that Donald Peck of Gouverneur has generously agreed to donate his time for the virtual auction on Facebook. If you would like to be a part of this event, please contact Don Peck on Facebook and ask to be a “friend” and you will be able to see and participate in the auction.

President Zawatski reported that the Kiwanis Backpack Program supplies over 100 bags of to the youngest in the community. She added that the Kiwanis Club, this past summer, was able to provide fresh dairy and produce to the entire community. “We would not be able to continue these programs without the support of businesses and individuals,” she said. “Our biggest obstacle has been fundraising due to COVID-19 restrictions.”

President Zawatski said the Kiwanis Club is now accepting monetary donations or merchandise ahead of the Feb. 17 auction. Please contact Stephanie LaShomb at 315-323-2953 for more information or if you have any questions. Much gratitude is extended in advance for the support.

“Without community members such as yourself, we wouldn’t be able to continue,” President Zawatski said.

For more information on the Kiwanis Club of Gouverneur, speak with any Kiwanis Club member or visit the Kiwanis Club’s page on Facebook.

During the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, many in-person fundraising events have been canceled to “stop the spread.” The Gouverneur community is greatly encouraged to engage with this virtual benefit events and help support the St. James School and the Kiwanis Club of Gouverneur, Inc. More on these fundraisers will be reported in upcoming editions of the Gouverneur Tribune Press.

Gouverneur Correctional Facility gets morale booster

by Rachel Hunter

The Town of Gouverneur and the Village of Gouverneur partnered with the North Country Store (Philadelphia, NY) and Kinney Drugs (Gouverneur, NY) to provide lunch for the correctional officers at the Gouverneur Correctional Facility on Saturday, January 23.

Town of Gouverneur Supervisor David Spilman, Jr. said: “Today, we are trying to boost some morale. The Gouverneur Correctional Facility is one our biggest employers in town here, and the hardest hit right now.”

A quantity of 120 North Country Store submarine sandwiches (60 turkey and 60 ham) along with snacks, soda and bottled water from Kinney Drugs was delivered to the Gouverneur Correctional Facility.

Paul Trombley of Gouverneur talked with the Gouverneur Tribune Press this past week about how the initiative progressed from an idea to a reality – in only one short week. He said the following: “The manager of the North Country Store (Philadelphia, NY) is a retired corrections officer, Matthew Montroy. I am a retired officer. And I manage the nutrition site in Gouverneur for the SLC Office For The Aging. I pretty much meet with Town of Gouverneur Supervisor David Spilman, Jr. every morning. We were talking about the numbers and stuff that are coming out of the Gouverneur Correctional Facility, and how helpless people feel that they can’t do anything to help them. That’s the thing right now. There’s a lot of feelings of helplessness and hopelessness – because there is not much that you can do. I said, “Well, it is a state-run facility. They pretty much take care of their own.” But there is one thing we can do. We can feed the troops! I can remember being an officer there, and being locked in during a crisis… sometimes for three days. With something coming from the outside in, I can remember pizzas being delivered. I remember McDonalds sending boxes of sandwiches in. It just gives you a little pickup, a little boost, a sense of normalcy. So within five minutes, that’s what we decided to do. We’ve gotten about a week into the planning stages, and got it all together. I contacted some fellow retired officers, and got some contributions to help cover the costs. So that’s what it comes from Gouverneur Correctional retirees, Town Supervisor David Spilman, town officials, and Mayor Ron McDougall.”

Mr. Trombley added the correctional officers retire young, and then “find something else to do.” As such, he connected immediately with Mr. Montroy. “I reached right out to him because I know he makes a good product,” Mr. Trombley said. “It is a North Country famous sandwich, and he dove right in and said it was not a problem.”

When asked why Matthew Montroy wanted to get involved in the project, he said the following: “I am a retired corrections officer myself – and it not only helps the corrections officers but maybe they’ll try our product and shop with us again.” Mr. Montroy said he brought in extra North Country Store employees and staff on Saturday morning, and it took them about two hours to make the subs. “We’ve got quite a process from start to finish. Of course, we’ve got the meat slicing to do because everything is fresh. It takes about three and a half minutes to get a sub all the way through – from start to finish. We were timing it.”

Town of Gouverneur Supervisor David Spilman, Jr. said the Town of Gouverneur and the Village of Gouverneur were also grateful for the donations from Gouverneur’s own Kinney Drugs, Inc. to allow them to provide snacks, bottled water, and soda to the Gouverneur Correctional Facility. Supervisor Spilman explained that the Town of Gouverneur gets a donation of nonperishable food items when stocked items get close to the sell-by date. The initiative started a couple years, when he got in contact with Linda Hill at the Kinney Drugs Warehouse. Since then, they have supplied nonperishable food items all around the county – at the nutrition sites, local food pantries, Gouverneur Kiwanis Wildcat Backpack Program, “Anyone we can help, we do it,” Supervisor Spilman said.

Recently, Supervisor Spilman said, the distribution has benefitted from the connections and enthusiasm of Dr. Robert Saidel, who in retirement, has been greatly involved in the distribution work. Supervisor Spilman said, “I gave him a key to the building where I store it, and he goes and gets all the ARC houses and has his own little circuit. He has endless amounts of energy. Some of the last stuff we got actually ended up in NYC. A friend of his is a lawyer and helps out with five homeless centers there. So we took a bunch of sweaters and jackets from our consignment store, and the loaded the first half of the van. The second half we put some of the snacks. They met in Pennsylvania, and ended up in NYC. It’s good…”

Once all the volunteers arrived at the Gouverneur Community Center, the boxes of food and beverage items were loaded in awaiting vehicles and were immediately driven to the Gouverneur Correctional Facility. Through a gate order, the volunteers were able to donate the items just in time for lunch on Saturday, January 23. Much gratitude is extended to all those who made this morale booster possible.

Village seeks $500,000 grant to help fund renovations at former Jumbo’s Diner building

The former Jumbo’s Diner building lot on East Main Street in downtown Gouverneur. (Rachel Hunter photo)

by Rachel Hunter

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees made official its approval and endorsement of the Village of Gouverneur’s application to NYS Home and Community Renewal for funding under the 2020 New York Main Street Program at a special teleconference board meeting on Jan. 13. The application is for $500,000 in financial assistance will go towards the building renovations at the former Jumbo’s Diner building and adjacent properties owned by Clark Porter of Gouverneur.

Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall told the village board that, while it was the village’s plan to hold the vote at the regular meeting on Jan. 19, the application needed to be filed on Jan. 15. “We need to get it together tomorrow, so we decided to do this today,” Mayor McDougall said. “We already agreed to this verbally (on December 15), but we have got to go through this process to make sure everything is correct, and for our auditors, and it is just the right thing to do.”

The village board then heard the Main Street Downtown Anchor Project resolution as follows: “Resolution by the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees approving and endorsing The Village of Gouverneur in its application to NYS Homes and Community Renewal for funding under the 2020 New York Main Street Program.

“Whereas, the Village of Gouverneur desires to apply for $500,000 in financial assistance through the 2020 Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) under the New York Main Street Downtown Anchor Program; and

“Whereas, the application proposes funding to assist property owner to complete building renovations to downtown “main street” building on Corner of West Main Street and Clinton Street; and

“Whereas, the proposed funding will contribute to ongoing community revitalization efforts; and

“Whereas, the grant application requires that the applicant obtain the approval and endorsement of the governing body of the municipality in which the project will be located.

“Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved, that the Board of Trustees of the Village of Gouverneur approves and endorses the 2020 New York Main Street Downtown Anchor Program for assistance prepared and to be submitted by the Village of Gouverneur.”

The motion to accept the resolution was made by Village Trustee Troy Besaw, and seconded by Village Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn. Deputy Mayor Charles Newvine then requested discussing the resolution – a request that was granted by Mayor McDougall. Deputy Mayor Newvine then asked the following: “I know we already agreed to this, but the only question I had was… There is no address on this. It just says the corner. Does that just mean the corner building, or all of the buildings that owner owns on the corner?” Village Clerk/Treasurer Barbara Finnie said it meant the whole lot, which was confirmed by Mayor McDougall. “So the 1, 3, 5, 7 East Main Street address?” Deputy Mayor Newvine asked. “Yes, so I will add that to the resolution,” Clerk/Treasurer Finnie said.

“And then the other question that I had: Is the owner of that property using his own company to do the work, and if so, does this grant just cover material cost and no labor? Like our sidewalk grant does? Or does the grant cover labor as well?”

Mayor McDougall then said the following: “The grant covers labor. Some of it would be his company and some of it would be by others. For instance, the roofing company… He didn’t do his own roof. He had been doing some work in there. But the roof was accomplished. RSI did the roof.”

Clerk/Treasurer Finnie then said that the owner would “have to put in a percentage of the cost of the grant.”

Deputy Mayor Newvine then said the following: “I understand that… I am just questioning it because if he were to use his own labor force, he wouldn’t have to pay to have his guys working… he wouldn’t have a payroll cost. He would have his own company and be able to maintain payroll by the grant money that we are giving him.”

Mayor McDougall said “yes” and Deputy Mayor Newvine then said: “Thanks, I just wanted to make sure that was clarified.”

Discussion continued for several moments before Mayor McDougall called for a roll call vote, and the motion carried.

Mayor McDougall extended gratitude to the village trustees for their time. He also added that the Village of Gouverneur was scheduled to reopen the Municipal Building on Jan. 19 at 8 a.m. The Village of Gouverneur’s open hours of operation along with meetings are considered tentative based upon COVID-19 isolations, quarantines and other pandemic guidelines. He informed the village board that the meeting at 6 p.m. on Jan. 19 would include COVID-19 protocols, including facial coverings, sanitizer, temperature check and social distancing, etc.

Mayor McDougall also reported the following: “Another note that is important – FERC relicensing – I signed the paperwork in consultation with our attorney, Case & Leader, and our senior attorney there, Bob Leader. I did that on Monday, January 11.”

The motion to adjourn the special meeting was made by Trustee Besaw, seconded by Trustee Simons-Washburn. The motion carried with all votes in favor.

Structure Fire

On Monday, January 11 at 5:20 p.m., the Gouverneur Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire. 11-1 arrived on scene confirming a working fire. The GFD Engine 17's crew was assigned interior attack entering the front door to stop the fire from entering the house from the attached garage. Crews were able to make a good hit on the large body of fire stopping it in the entry way from the garage. Units were on scene for three hours overhauling to make sure all hot spots were out. Members were able to remove an animal from the house unharmed. One Gouverneur firefighter had minor burns from interior operations. Gouverneur Fire Response: 11-1, 11-2, 11-3, Engine 17, Engine 18, ETA-101, TA-6, Rescue 4, Truck 2, R-75. Mutual aid: Edwards FD (engine for draft and tanker to the scene) and Harrisville FD (tankers to the scene).

CHMC Foundation receives gift from CHMC Auxiliary

Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center Foundation received a generous $100,000 donation from the CHMC Auxiliary for the construction of the Children’s Mental Health Unit at CHMC. “Inpatient psychiatry services for children and adolescents is a growing need in the North Country. At Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center, when we see a child or adolescent in the Emergency Department who requires more than outpatient care, we are forced to wait for an open space in one of the few hospitals in the state who offer inpatient children’s mental health,” states Randy Fipps CHMC Administrator of System Integration and Behavioral Health, “The creation of this unit is vital to the health and wellness of the youth in our community. We are so grateful for this gift of support.”

The inpatient unit is specifically designed to meet the developmental and psychiatric needs of children and adolescents who require more than outpatient mental health services. Having a facility in St. Lawrence County means more children who need help can get it closer to home and family: with more than 900 youth (children and adolescents) presenting in the CHMC Emergency Department with mental health challenges each year, this is a necessary service for the community. This 12-bed unit will accommodate youth diagnosed with pediatric psychiatric disorders and will staff healthcare professionals trained to work in the field. The therapies and treatments provided at the Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center Children’s Mental Health Unit will improve quality of life and outcomes for patients. Patients will receive individualized, evidence-based treatment while also attending classes, meeting with their families, and expressing themselves through supervised activities.

Mental health and wellness impact more than just an individual: when a person misses work, when a parent can’t take their child to an appointment, when a family worries about the fate of their loved one – these are situations that affect many in subtle and obvious ways. If you are interested in supporting the CHMC Children’s Mental Health Unit, please contact the CHMC Foundation for information on investing in the North Country youth.

In order to provide meaningful support to the Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center, the Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center Foundation was formed in 1984. Our goal is to faithfully serve our community by listening to and advocating for their healthcare needs and concerns. We engage the community to make these needs a reality. Over the years, the foundation has invested over $46 million in new or renovated healthcare facilities and services for the people of the North Country. Over $21 million of that investment has come through the contributions of thousands of donors and the hard work of hundreds of volunteers who care deeply about the quality of life in their community.

Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 serves up over 210 roast beef dinners to senior citizens

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 turned its face toward senior citizens (55 years or older) in the Gouverneur community on Sunday, December 20 as it served up roast beef dinners to all those who attended its annual Senior Citizen Holiday Dinner – just before the Christmas holiday. The scrumptious roast beef dinner was complete with mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, and a roll. Over 210 dinners were served in one hour. Curbside service started at 11:30 a.m. to handle the incredible demand.

While usually a time for senior citizens to enjoy the fellowship of their neighbors, the event was held via a drive-thru style due to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. Gouverneur seniors said they appreciated the warmth of the Gouverneur Elks as they served up the hot roast beef dinners, as the seniors still enjoyed a big dose of the Gouverneur Elks’ hospitality and dedicated service while in the drive-thru lineup. Many senior citizens living alone in the Gouverneur community said it was an opportunity to get out, see some friendly faces, and enjoy a good meal as well – that they didn’t have to shop for and cook from scratch themselves.

Joy lit up the eyes of the senior citizens as they took the packaged roast beef dinners from the Gouverneur Elks members. The seniors donned facial masks and used hand sanitizer to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the local community. Others were delivered the roast beef dinners to their homes, thanks to the volunteerism of younger members of the Gouverneur community, as well as the Gouverneur Elks.

The Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 has hosted the annual Senior Citizens Holiday Dinner for over 40 years. Much gratitude was extended to all who made the event possible. The Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 did not anticipate the incredible turnout, as the 2019 Senior Citizens Dinner only drew 150 local residents. The Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 is already planning to make enough meals for 300 senior citizens in 2021.

Did you know? The moving spirit for the Elks was an Englishman named Charles Algernon Sidney Vivian. Born October 22, 1842, this son of a clergyman was a successful comic singer and dancer in the music halls of London. In November 1867, Vivian arrived in New York City to try his fortune. Other actors and entertainers soon gravitated toward his magnetic personality. With everything closed on Sunday because of New York City Blue Laws, a group of theatrical people began meeting for their own amusement under Vivian's leadership. A loose organization was formed to make sure the larder was well-stocked for these gatherings. They called themselves the Jolly Corks, a name derived from a trick introduced by Vivian in which the uninitiated purchased a round of refreshments. When one of their members died shortly before Christmas in 1867, leaving his wife and children destitute, the Jolly Corks decided that in addition to good fellowship, they needed a more enduring organization to serve those in need.

On February 16, 1868, they established the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and elected Vivian to head it. Its social activities and benefit performances increased the popularity of the new Order. Membership grew rapidly. Elks traveling to other cities spread the word of the Brotherhood of Elks. Soon there were requests for Elks Lodges in cities other than New York. In response to these appeals, the Elks asked the New York State legislature for a charter authorizing the establishment of a Grand Lodge with the power to establish local Lodges anywhere in the United States. When the Grand Lodge Charter was issued, the founders then received the first local charter as New York Lodge No. 1 on March 10, 1871.

Dissension soon erupted. Legitimate actors headed by George F. McDonald wanted to restrict membership to the theatrical profession. This view was opposed by Vivian and his friends. Taking advantage of Vivian's absence due to an out-of-town engagement, the McDonald group summarily expelled Vivian and several of his closest friends. Years later the Order rectified this illegal act, but it gave rise to a controversy whether Vivian was actually the founder of the Order. In 1897, a formal inquiry firmly established his right to this honored title.

Vivian continued, after his expulsion from the Order, to enchant audiences across the country. He starred with some of the largest road companies of the time. Together with his actress wife, the former Imogene Holbrook, Vivian set up a repertoire theater in Leadville, Colorado. Shortly thereafter he died of pneumonia on March 20, 1880. In 1889, the Elks moved his body from Leadville, Colorado, to Mt. Hope Cemetery, Boston, Massachusetts. Mrs. Vivian received a stipend from the Order her husband founded until her death in 1931.

The legacy of Charles Vivian continues to this day. In addition to aiding members in distress, the Elks raise money for children with disabilities, college scholarships, youth projects and recreational programs for patients in veteran's hospitals.

On June 14, 1907 the Order held a Flag Day observance. This tradition later was declared a national holiday by President Harry S. Truman.

During World War I, the Elks funded and equipped the first two field hospitals in France and built a 72-room community house in Camp Sherman, Ohio, and a 700-bed rehabilitation hospital in Boston, which they turned over to the War Department. They also raised money for the Salvation Army's frontline canteens.

Their loans to 40,000 returning veterans for college, rehabilitation and vocational education were the precursor of the GI Bill. When World War II broke out, the Elks were the only civilian organization asked to help recruit construction workers for the military, a task that was completed three months ahead of schedule. The Elks also contributed more than half a million books to the Merchant Marines so that their men would have reading material on board ship. The Korean War again brought out the best in the Elks. They donated more than half a million pints of blood to help wounded soldiers. When the wounded from Vietnam needed help, the Elks responded. They provided the funds for a recreation pavilion at the Navy Hospital on Guam. The wounded at Tripler Medical Center in Hawaii were sweltering in the heat. When the Elks heard of their plight, they purchased 24 air-conditioning units so these patriots could recuperate in some degree of comfort.

When Operation Desert Storm took place, the Elks again led the support for our fighting men and women in the Persian Gulf. Subordinate Lodges undertook letter-writing campaigns to help keep up the spirits of the defenders of freedom. The Elks were also among the first to welcome them home and thank them for a job well done.

The Elks’ story is long, their work humble, and their history proud. As long as there are those who need help, the Elks are dedicated to being there to give aid and comfort. The Gouverneur Elks are proud to be able to give to those in need this holiday season. For more information on the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035, call 315-287-2100.

Helping Neighbors This Holiday: GHS National Honor Society members ring the bell for Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign

by Rachel Hunter

The familiar sound of the iconic red kettlebells are ringing again this holiday season, but there are fewer of them and donations aren’t what the Salvation Army typically receives during its annual Red Kettle Campaign. While volunteers stick to strict COVID-19 guidelines, like wearing masks and socially distancing outside of stores, the charity organization said it expects to collect only about half as much as it did in 2019. But that didn’t stop National Honor Society students at Gouverneur High School from volunteering over 75 hours with the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign.

The Red Kettle Campaign is the Salvation Army’s single largest fundraising event of the year. This year, the need is greater than ever before. Since March, the Salvation Army has provided more than 13 million meals.

The Red Kettle Campaign got its start in 1891. Salvation Army Captain Joseph McFee was distraught because so many poor individuals in San Francisco were going hungry. During the holiday season, he resolved to provide a free Christmas dinner for the destitute and poverty-stricken. He only had one major hurdle to overcome -- funding the project. “Where would the money come from?,” he wondered. He lay awake nights, worrying, thinking, praying about how he could find the funds to fulfill his commitment of feeding 1,000 of the city's poorest individuals on Christmas Day. As he pondered the issue, his thoughts drifted back to his sailor days in Liverpool, England. He remembered how at Stage Landing, where the boats came in, there was a large, iron kettle called "Simpson's Pot" into which passers-by tossed a coin or two to help the poor.

The next day Captain McFee placed a similar pot at the Oakland Ferry Landing at the foot of Market Street. Beside the pot, he placed a sign that read, "Keep the Pot Boiling." He soon had the money to see that the needy people were properly fed at Christmas. Six years later, the kettle idea spread from the west coast to the Boston area. That year, the combined effort nationwide resulted in 150,000 Christmas dinners for the needy. In 1901, kettle contributions in New York City provided funds for the first mammoth sit-down dinner in Madison Square Garden, a custom that continued for many years. Today in the U.S., The Salvation Army assists more than four-and-a-half million people during the Thanksgiving and Christmas time periods.

Captain McFee's kettle idea launched a tradition that has spread not only throughout the United States, but all across the world. Kettles are now used in such distant lands as Korea, Japan, Chile and many European countries. Everywhere, public contributions to Salvation Army kettles enable the organization to continue its year-round efforts at helping those who would otherwise be forgotten.

On Wednesday, December 16, Salvation Army Regional Services Coordinator Sam Reeder and Service Extension Director Ann Vail brought the Big Red Kettle to the Gouverneur Price Chopper from 2 to 4 p.m. Mr. Reeder said that all funds raised in the Gouverneur Service Unit of the Salvation Army stay local to help families in need during the holiday season. He said they work through the Gouverneur Neighborhood Center and its Director Angela Ferrick of Gouverneur to provide food and other vouchers to help families with expenses relating to fuel, shelter, etc. All those in the Gouverneur community are encouraged to help their neighbors in need. The National Honor Society will be ringing the iconic bells at Price Chopper until through Christmas Eve.

Donors don’t have to touch the kettles if they don’t wish to. Each kettle will have the opportunity for people to donate electronically using their smartphones through Apple Pay or Google Pay and there will also be a QR code on each kettle. It has also been placed on various flyers that have been hung around the Gouverneur community. For more information on how to donate, visit give.salvationarmy.org.

National Honor Society Advisor Marcy Tyler told the Gouverneur Tribune Press this week that this is the fourth year that the National Honor Society at Gouverneur High School has participated in the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign – and is a great way for the students to give back to families in the local community. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, the honor society has reduced its community service requirements to 20 hours. But Advisor Marcy Tyler said many Gouverneur students are still meeting and exceeding the 30 hours of community service, seeking inventive ways of helping families in the local community. This year, the students have contributed more than 75 hours to “ringing the bell” for the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign alone.

The National Honor Society members from Gouverneur High School include the following: President Peyton Mussaw, Vice President Kaitlyn Gibson, Secretary Hailey Morrissiey, Treasurer Kolby Wells, Ellen Baer, Holly Barton, Cierra Besaw, Raelin Burns, Haylee Campbell, Corryn Canell, Alex Clancy, Joseph Cummings, Alexis Devlin, Breena Drake, Claire Knowlton, Reese Morenz, Leeah Morrissiey, Torie Salisbury, Cole Siebels, Connor Wood, and Ariana Zeller.

Many Gouverneur community members said that the thrill of dropping change into the red kettle gives their holiday spirits a jolt – each and every time they donate. They recognize the dedication of the National Honor Society students, and desire to give back to their neighbors in need this holiday season. “With so much going wrong in the world right now… this is one way I can make a difference,” one donor said after putting change in the red kettle.

Don’t miss the opportunity to donate toward the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign here in Gouverneur. The National Honor Society student will be ringing the bell through Christmas Eve. For more information on Salvation Army, visit salvationarmyusa.org.

2020 Christmas Decorating Contest: Public voting closes today

by Rachel Hunter

Public voting in the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce sponsored 2020 Christmas Decorating Contest remains open through Friday, December 18. Community members can cast their votes via a digital ballot on gouverneurchamber.net or via a paper ballot at local participating retailers (Kinney Drugs locations, Newvine’s NAPA Auto Parts, Jreck Subs, Sunflour Bakery, and Mrs. Beasley’s Liquor Store) as well as the Gouverneur Library and the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce office. The holiday displays were lit up by Saturday, December 12 around the Gouverneur community and many local residents have enjoyed taking a tour of all the light displays in the local vicinity ever since.

The Christmas displays varied with the use of lights, music, inflatable Christmas decorations, traditional décor, and so much more! A special spotlight shone on the local businesses who participated in the contest. Small Town Supply purchased and donated the Christmas decorations that outfitted the Gouverneur Library’s display, which was ornate in its simple elegance. AOK Engineering, PLLC, 158o US Highway 11, Gouverneur, had a light show with the Christmas lights on the wooden constructed mine shaft set to festive music, as well as various other lights and decorations throughout the former Harvest Corn Maze location. Stowell’s Logging on County Route 11 (Rock Island Road) featured lights outlining their equipment at the business. Sunflour Bakery and Cafe, 1034 US Highway 11, Gouverneur was decorated as a gingerbread house with gingerbread, peppermint and other sweet treats outlining the structure. The Route 11 Diner, 985 US Highway 11, Gouverneur, also thrilled community members with their inflatable Christmas decorations outside the restaurant. Community Bank, 100 East Main Street, Gouverneur and the Northern Credit Union, 145 East Main Street, offered viewers a look back at the traditional elegance of a classic Christmas display.

A variety of Christmas displays are also available for viewing at the following homes: Sean Devlin, 261 Rowley Street, Gouverneur, Christine Buckley, 207 Rowley Street, Gouverneur, Ernie Boclair, 124 East Barney Street, Gouverneur, Wendy & Sid Peters, 134 Park Street, Gouverneur, Amanda McCarthy, 151 Clinton Street, Gouverneur, Deanna Shepard, 2164 County Route 11 (Rock Island Rd.), Gouverneur, Tammy Findley, 2192 County Route 11 (Rock Island Rd.), Gouverneur, Karen Cowles, 1275 County Route 12 (Johnstown Rd.), Gouverneur Chris Cowles, 1280 County Route 12 (Johnstown Rd.), Gouverneur, Renee Smith, 125 Depot Street, Gouverneur, Linda Clement, 41 Sterling Street, Gouverneur, Justin Kirby, 64 Beckwith Street, Gouverneur, Kourtni Brown, 70 William Street, Gouverneur, Rick & Erin Rotundo, 16 Graves Street, Gouverneur, Greg & JoAnn Crandall, 20 Graves Street, Gouverneur, Shawna Gilbo, 154 Hailesboro Street #37, Gouverneur, Melissa Breckenridge, 486 Doane Road, Gouverneur, Stefan Evans, 4979 State Highway 58, Gouverneur. Community members are especially urged to take the journey outside the Village of Gouverneur and see all of the magnificent Christmas displays in the outlying areas in the Town of Gouverneur and beyond.

Don’t miss your opportunity to vote in the 2020 Christmas Decorating Contest, sponsored by the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce! Vote today. A winner will be selected in both the business and residential categories with the top vote-getters each receiving a $50 cash prize.

For more information about the contest, visit gouverneurchamber.net

North Country Receives First Doses of COVID-19 Vaccine

St. Lawrence Health System (SLHS) has received an initial shipment of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines, and expects the second half of the doses to arrive in approximately 20 days. This vaccine is administered as a two-dose series, three weeks apart.

The System will be vaccinating its clinical staff members at Canton-Potsdam Hospital, Gouverneur Hospital, Massena Hospital, and other neighboring hospital facilities in accordance with governmental guidelines.

The management, allocation, and distribution of the vaccine in the U.S. is being handled under Operation Warp Speed. Northern New York was expected to receive 3,700 of the first 85,000 shots in the initial shipment; half of the 170,000 doses. The second half of the order is expected to arrive 21 days afterward.

“The New York State Department of Health has directed all hospitals and health systems to follow their Guidance for Prioritization of Healthcare Personnel in Hospitals for COVID-19 Vaccination during the initial roll-out of the program based on a limited vaccine supply. Hospitals and health systems must be prepared for an initial supply of vaccine that will not cover the entire healthcare workforce at once,” noted SLHS Chief Administrative Officer Jeremy Slaga.

“Healthcare hospital personnel are designated a top priority because of their exposure to the virus and their critical role of keeping hospitals functioning. Not every hospital will receive the vaccine in the first allocation; however, all hospital personnel working in high-risk settings will be afforded equitable access to this vaccine,” he added.

“As a recipient of the initial distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine, Canton-Potsdam Hospital will work with neighboring facilities and administer the reserved portion of this first shipment to staff,” Mr. Slaga stated. “The intent of this allocation methodology is to create equity across regions and hospital systems and the communities they serve.”

St. Lawrence Health System’s Associate Chief Medical Officer and St. Lawrence County Board of Health President Andrew Williams, MD, FACP, was the first staff member of the System to receive the vaccine on Tuesday. He noted the distribution of the product is cause for excitement in the medical field, as well as throughout the general public.

“This vaccine is a ray of light. Hopefully the introduction of the vaccine will represent the beginning of the end of the pandemic,” Dr. Williams said. “The arrival of a safe, effective vaccine can only be viewed as a huge step ahead.

“I look forward to it being administered throughout the community. It is so important for North Country residents to receive the shots to protect themselves, their family, and the community. It is terribly sad to see people dying from COVID-19, and it is important for people to understand that many who have recovered remain with disabilities as a result of the infection,” he added.

Pfizer-BioNTech announced this past Friday that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized the Emergency Use Authorization of the mRNA vaccine against COVID-19 in individuals 16 years of age or older.

Pfizer-BioNTech has reported the vaccine, which is administered into the muscle, may not protect everyone against COVID-19. The company also said the duration period for protection against COVID-19 after receiving the vaccine is currently unknown.

Adverse reactions reported in clinical trials of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine include injection site pain, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, chills, joint pain, fever, injection site swelling, injection site redness, nausea, feeling unwell, and swollen lymph nodes. Severe allergic reactions have included difficulty breathing, swelling of the face and throat, rapid heartbeat, rash over the body, and dizziness/weakness.

The website Let’s Get Immunized NY (https://www.letsgetimmunizedny.org/) states “Vaccines are one of the greatest contributions to public health in the modern era and they are most effective if everyone receives them. This is known as herd immunity.”

Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 presents $900 ENF grant to Town of Fowler SOS Program

by Rachel Hunter

Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 Exalted Ruler Gresford Speid presented a $900 Elks National Foundation grant to be used to support the Town of Fowler Support Our Seniors (SOS) program at the Town of Fowler Council meeting on Nov. 5 at the Fowler Town Hall.

“On behalf of the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks Gouverneur Lodge No. 2035, we would like to present this check to the Town of Fowler’s SOS program for 2020-2021,” ER Speid said during the presentation. Town of Fowler Supervisor Rick Newvine gave the privilege of accepting the check on behalf of the Town of Fowler to Town of Fowler Highway Superintendent Randy Durham, a Past Exalted Ruler of Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 who was the “driving force behind getting the grant.”

“I would like to say: It is a pleasure to accept this on behalf of the Town of Fowler, and thank you for your help,” Mr. Durham said.

Much applause sounded through the Fowler Town Hall as all those gathered celebrated the Town of Fowler’s ability to help more seniors with the additional funds.

Town of Fowler SOS Organizer Deputy Supervisor Karen Simmons, later in the meeting, reported the following update on the program: “We are getting ready to make another delivery on Nov. 20, the Friday before Thanksgiving. It is going to be a little different this time. It is going to be kind of along the lines of Thanksgiving. I have 72 people already on the list. We are going to buy enough for 75, so we have room for a few more if there is somebody who needs to be on there. I volunteered Town of Fowler Supervisor Rick Newvine to help him deliver. Everybody is just so appreciative of it. Everybody when I call just thanks me and says what a nice job. They are so thankful for the Town of Fowler for doing this. They said they don’t know any other town around that would do something like this. They really appreciate it. And that makes you feel good.”

Supervisor Newvine said the program is possible because of the people in the Town of Fowler. “It is all donated money,” he said.

Michael Cappellino of Fowler then asked for it to be made public the amount of the check presented by the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035. Deputy Supervisor Simmons announced $900. Town of Fowler Bookkeeper Barbara Finnie said that the Town of Fowler SOS fund currently had a little over $1,000 in it. Deputy Supervisor Simmons then said: “We are going to spend the majority of it.”

There was some more discussion, and then the Town of Fowler Council continued to discuss business at hand. The next meeting of the Town of Fowler Council will be held on Dec. 14 at 6 p.m. in the Fowler Town Hall, 87 Little York Road, Fowler. Those with any questions can contact Karen Simmons at (315) 287-4753 or Supervisor Rick Newvine at (315) 287-4753 or Town Clerk Tami Gale at (315) 287-0045.

More than 400 trick-or-treaters attend First Annual Parkstead Gouverneur Halloween Trunk N Treat

by Rachel Hunter

More than 400 trick-or-treaters got their fill of candy and other treats at the First Annual Parkstead Gouverneur Halloween Trunk N Treat on Saturday, October 31 at 500 Sleepy Hollow Road, Gouverneur. While respecting social distance guidelines amid the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, costumed youth made their way down the sidewalk, visiting each decorated trunk offering candy and treats. Each Parkstead Gouverneur resident or community member wore gloves and masks as they handed out individually wrapped candy. Delightful squeals and smiles (behind masks) abounded as the youth filled up their treat bags.

Parkstead Gouverneur Property Manager Stormy Cox, Assistant Property Manager Sean Peck, and Leasing Agent Vaughn Butler (dressed in costume as Alvin and the Chipmunks) along with many other staff members and volunteers made the event possible. Much gratitude is extended to Henry and Christine LaQuier for their traffic control efforts. Mr. Peck said that many community members were able to park on Pooler Street, so ample parking space was not an issue at the Trunk N Treat event.

Abiding by the 4 to 6 p.m. time suggested by the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees, many trick-or-treaters were able to collect all the treats offered in daylight conditions. Many trick-or-treaters then also chose to go trick-or-treating at homes around the Village of Gouverneur during the 5 to 7 p.m. time. Assistant Property Manager Sean Peck extends gratitude to the Gouverneur community for coming out to Parkstead Gouverneur and supporting the event.

“This is not going to be a one-time thing,” Mr. Peck said. “We are going to do it again next year. We hope, if there’s no pandemic, that they will remember who was there for them last year, and come back to us next year. I just want to let the community know how much we appreciate everything – and if they are ever looking for a new home, come see me at Parkstead. There has not been one negative about the event. I have not heard one negative thing at all… There was no negative. We had to hand out very few masks. We appreciate the fact that everyone listened, came, and wore a mask. And you could tell everybody was social distancing all the way through.”

Assistant Property Manager Sean Peck said that the event also included many donations from businesses around the Gouverneur community. Fidelis Care in Gouverneur donated Halloween-themed treat bags along with hand sanitizing wipes that were readily used by all those in attendance. Dunkin’ Donuts in Gouverneur donated coffee mugs and gift cards for youth winning the costume contest. Kinney Drugs in Gouverneur donated glow sticks and other treats to hand out to the youth in attendance. The Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Association also donated 10 traffic cones that were used to show the Trunk N Treat start point and also to outline the walking areas.

In addition, Parkstead Gouverneur also hosted a guessing game where youth were able to guess how many pieces of candy were in a jar. Trevor Sixberry won the contest, and was awarded a Dunkin’ Donuts thermos for his win. Parkstead Gouverneur also hosted a costume contest. The winners will be announced at a later date in the Gouverneur Tribune Press once the evaluation is finalized. Mr. Peck said the winners will receive a mug from Dunkin’ Donuts and a $10 gift card. The photos will also be posted on the Parkstead Gouverneur Facebook page.

The creativity of the decorated trunks amazed many of those in attendance. From witches and warlocks to Hocus Pocus, and so much more… the costumed youth approached each trunk with excitement as the walked down the sidewalk. The largest and most anticipated trunk was the one designed by the Gouverneur Cub Scouts Pack No. 2035, organized by Cubmaster Chris Gates of Gouverneur. The display was a country farm theme and all costumed youngsters were invited to put their treat bag underneath PVC pipes for a bag of individually wrapped candy and a gift certificate from 7-Eleven in Gouverneur for a free medium Slurpee Drink.

Parkstead Gouverneur Assistant Property Manager Sean Peck said he was touched by several community members’ willingness to come back and thank Parkstead Gouverneur for organizing the event for the kids on Halloween night.

Mr. Peck said: “They told me: “You were the only game in town.” I said, “What do you mean? There was regular trick-or-treating.” They said, “Rowley Street was a ghost town. There was literally like five houses that were set up to give out candy on Rowley Street, and that is usually the mecca of trick-or-treating.” I got a lot of messages from people saying: “Thank you again for what you guys did. The kids would have had nothing if it weren’t for you.”

“Every kid that left said they had a bagful of candy… There was plenty of candy on hand to give out… One girl that came at the very end, she made out like a bandit, because everybody just dumped what they had left and she walked out of here with two bags full. I thought everybody was going to hit us early, and they did because the last 30 minutes there weren’t very many. But the community came out, and we appreciated that. The community, as we are, to have 400? That’s huge. A lot of work and effort went into it, and we appreciate it. We are going to plan more events, as the pandemic ends, that involves the community. We want to be a part of the community and we are going to be here.”

Mr. Peck said that Parkstead Philadelphia also had a Halloween event – a party for the kids living in the apartment complex. He said there were about 20 youth in attendance – but that it was nothing like the draw in Gouverneur at the Trunk N Treat event.

“I had expectations of what it would be,” Mr. Peck said. “It met and exceeded every one of those. It did. I did not expect 400. I told everyone, maybe 200-300. And we hit 400-plus. That was awesome. We appreciate the community being respectful and everything else through the pandemic, wearing a mask. We maybe used a half of a box, 20 to 25 masks. That by itself says a lot about this community, being respectful and listening to the COVID-19 regulations.

“It gave the community, the kids, something to do that kind of just took their minds off of everything else for that 15 to 20 minutes that they were here and walking the property. The event was to bring attention our way, which we know we did. We do have a couple apartments to rent, so I am hoping we do get some allocations off of it – but it was to bring the community together. I think that this location we have is perfect for something like that. We’re spread out enough… so social distancing wasn’t going to be an issue. We had Pooler St. that we parked the cars on. Parking was not an issue whatsoever.. There was a lot of people who did a lot to help us. It was just beyond successful.”

The results of the First Annual Halloween Trunk N Treat Costume Contest will be released in an upcoming edition of the Gouverneur Tribune Press. Follow Parkstead Gouverneur on Facebook for the announcement of future events and activities in the Gouverneur area.

Gouverneur Girls Varsity Soccer Team host Senior Night Celebration

by Rachel Hunter

Eight seniors on the Gouverneur High School Wildcat Girls Varsity Soccer Team were celebrated on Wednesday, October 14 before the home game against Franklin Academy (Malone Central). The seniors included: Holly Barton, Haylee Campbell, Breena Drake, Rorey Fuller, Elaina Lumley, Reese Morenz, Hope Simmons, and Laney Smith. The ceremony was led by Girls Varsity Soccer Coach Mark Martin and assisted by Coach Kurt Wells.

“Good evening, ladies and gentlemen and welcome to the Gouverneur Soccer Field for our special evening as we recognize our eight amazing seniors. I would like to take a quick moment to thank a few of our own. Our Board of Education, Superintendent of Schools Lauren French, Principal Cory Wood, and our Athletic Director Chris Marshall for giving us all a chance to play soccer this season during this tough year we have all had to face.”

Coach Martin then recognized the seniors from Malone Central. Each was presented with a floral bouquet and had their picture taken. The seniors were as follows: Jacklyn Santamore, Ryleigh McCauley, Madison Klepfer, Jordan Pickering, Madison Ansari, Taylor Covey, and Jessica Delisle. Much gratitude was extended to Malone Huskies Girls Varsity Soccer Coach Terry Collins and the soccer team for allowing time for the senior night festivities before the game.

Coach Martin then continued his address as follows: “As a graduating senior athlete, you have been challenged to set your goals high, stretch yourself, and to be industrious in all that you do. You have also been taught that athletics is a preparation for life and what you learn from being on a team is a microcosm of life. The things your coaches and teachers taught you about life are about to begin making sense. You will soon see what they meant.

“Our new life’s journey may have you continue in athletics, but most will not. You possibly could play in college, but most have taken off their competitive cleats for the last time. Other than recreational league games, most will not be under a coach’s influence any longer. You will learn to appreciate the fact that you were a member of your Gouverneur High School team and had the opportunity to play soccer.

“As you graduate, don’t forget what you have been taught, both on and off the playing field. Be a leader among family and friends. Be a leader in your community or on your campus. Be a responsible citizen and a good representation of all those who have invested their time to prepare you for this point in your life.

“In conclusion, athletics have now played an important role in your educational process. Coaches, teachers and parents have finished their task of training you. Make sure you thank them. Take what you have learned from all of them and make a smooth transition into “the rest of your life.” I wish you the best. We will all be cheering for you.”

Coach Martin then moved forward with the individual recognition of each senior. As their names were called, floral bouquets and a photo collage of their time on the GCS Soccer Field were presented to each senior. Each senior was joined in the celebration with their parents, and took the opportunity for a photo opportunity. The seniors were as follows:

Reese Lorenz, daughter of Rusty and Nicole Morenz, is a six-year school soccer player. She played summer travel an indoor soccer and adult league in Lowville. Reese will be going to attend SUNY Canton for Nursing.

Hope Simmons, daughter of Ed and Desiree Simmons, is a four-year school soccer player. She played in Lowville adult league. Hope hopes to study Criminal Law.

Rorey Fuller, daughter of Jason and Jenelle Fuller, is a six-year soccer player who played summer league, indoor league, Lowville adult league. Rorey plans on going to SUNY Canton to get her Bachelor’s Degree so she can apply for SUNY Upstate Medical and specialize as an OBGYN.

Holly Barton, daughter of Joe and Evelyn Barton, is a six-year school soccer player. She is a two-year starter, and is a year-round soccer player (indoor and outdoor Lowville Adult League). Holly is going to study to be a Registered Nurse.

Breena Drake, daughter of Brian and Kim Drake, is a six-year school soccer player, two-year varsity starter. She is a year-round soccer player (Lowville Adult League). She will be attending North Country Community College study Radiologic Technology.

Haylee Campbell, daughter of Gary and Mona Campbell, is a six-year school soccer player. She is a three-year varsity soccer player and starter. She was part of the 2018 Undefeated Class B Co-Championship Team. She is going to attend SUNY Canton for Nursing.

Laney Smith, daughter of Ed and Patti Smith, is a six-year school player, year-round soccer player, who also played in the Lowville Adult League. She was the 2018 Section 10 Defensive MVP, Two-Time First-Team All Northern, Times All North First Team, and led the Wildcats to the 2018 Undefeated Co- Class B Championships. She was the top three-scorer last year as a defensive player. Laney Smith was one of Coach Martin’s first players from Gouverneur that started at the age of 10. She played for two years on the Section 10 Select Team, and for two years has been co-captain. “One of the Gouverneur’s top girl soccer players… period!” Coach Martin said. She will be attending SUNY Potsdam for teaching.

Elaina Lumley, daughter of Allison Woods, has played soccer year-round for seven years full-time, starting when she was 10 years old. Coach Martin said that, other than his own daughter, Ireland, Elaina has played the most soccer for him. She started on defense on the 2018 Undefeated Class B Co-Championship and Central League Championship Team. Her defense group allowed only five goals all season. “Elaina has always been a rock in our Gouverneur club and the school program,” Coach Martin said. “She is a player that I will definitely miss! Elaina, it has been an honor to coach you full-time for all these years. Thank you for helping us build a successful program and sticking with me to the end.” Elaina will be attending either SUNY Jefferson or SUNY Canton and hopes to study Nursing.

A final word to parents and players: Much gratitude was extended. “I’m truly honored and blesse for the time, effort, commitment to myself and to our Gouverneur Girls Soccer Program. We are on top because of you. Seniors, good luck. Now let’s go play.”

But before the game commenced the Coach Martin was presented with a signed soccer ball with all the girls names as a “thank you” for his years of coaching. “On behalf of everyone at Gouverneur Soccer, who has been taught how to play soccer, summer or during school, the seniors would like to give Coach Martin a little gift,” Coach Wells said. Coach Martin graciously accepted the gift and elbow-bumped the presenting seniors in gratitude in keeping with the COVID-19 health recommendations.

The Gouverneur Girls Varsity Soccer Team then took a group picture with parents on the Gouverneur Soccer Field before game play commenced. Gouverneur won, 2-1, against Malone. Many words of congratulations were extended to the team following the first home game win.

Gouverneur Wildcat Boys Varsity Soccer celebrates Senior Night

by Rachel Hunter

The seven seniors on the Gouverneur Wildcat Varsity Boys Soccer Team were celebrated during Senior Night before the first home game of the season on Tuesday, October 13.

All were welcomed to the Gouverneur Wildcat Varsity Boys Soccer Senior Night by Gouverneur Wildcat Varsity Boys Soccer Coach Lucas Hayden.

“This has not been the greatest year so far with everything going on,” Coach Hayden said. “They can’t have all their friends and family here… I have seven seniors this year. Three of them I have had since Modified, and four of them this is my first year actually coaching them. They all work hard in practice. They all dedicate their time, definitely. I am proud of them. I know you guys should be… I’d like to thank them for playing, and I’d like to thank (the parents) for doing the running around for them.”

Gouverneur Wildcat Varsity Boys Soccer Coach Lucas Hayden was assisted in the ceremony by Gouverneur Wildcat Varsity Girls Soccer Coach Mark Martin, who distributed the flower bouquets to the seniors. The seniors then presented the bouquets to their parents in a show of appreciation. Photos were then taken of each senior and their parents.

The seniors honored were as follows: Brock Cox, the son of Amanda Cox and Charles Newvine; Joseph Cummings, the son of Shawn and Clara Cummings; Kyle Gaumes, the son of Robin and Cindy Gaumes; Daniel Hall, the son of John and Betty Hall; Jordan Hayden, the son of Lucas and Staci Hayden; Wyatt Holmes, the son of Greg and Bobbie Holmes; and Garret Leclair, the son of Nichole Fullerton and Jimmie Leclair.

Many words of congratulations were extended to all the seniors on the Gouverneur Wildcat Varsity Boys Soccer Team.

The Gouverneur Wildcat Varsity Boys Soccer Team ended a hard-fought game against Ogdensburg Free Academy with a 2-1 loss for the Wildcats. The next home game for the Wildcats will be on Oct. 26 against Salmon River. For full schedule information, visit sectionxboces.com.

Halloween Trunk N Treat to be held October 31

by Rachel Hunter

Parkstead Gouverneur Assistant Property Manager Sean Peck of Gouverneur eagerly anticipates decorating for the Halloween Trunk N Treat to be held on October 31, 6 to 8 p.m., hosted by Parkstead Gouverneur. Pictured with Mr. Peck are “his boys” Billy Joe, Axle the Rebel, Junior, and Billy Bob which will be part of the Halloween décor at the Halloween Trunk N Treat on Halloween Night. (Rachel Hunter photo)

A Halloween Trunk N Treat, sponsored and hosted by Parkstead Gouverneur, will be held on Halloween Night, Saturday, October 31, 6 to 8 p.m., at 500 Sleepy Hollow Rd., off Pooler St., Gouverneur.

“The Trunk N Treat we are going to open up to the public because we wanted to make sure that with everything going on with COVID that we wanted to make sure the kids had something,” Parkstead Gouverneur Assistant Property Manager Sean Peck of Gouverneur said. “With Parkstead, I am deep into community. I want to get our complex into the community. Some of our residents came to me, and said: “What are we going to do for the kids?” I said, “Well, I am thinking about a Trunk N Treat. And they said, “Well, that’s what we were thinking.” So at that point we decided to go ahead and open it to the public.”

The Halloween Trunk N Treat will start at the Parkstead Gouverneur Leasing Office. “All the people giving out candy will be on one side of the road, so that way kids are not running all over the complex. So, they are going to go down the one side of the road, turn the corner and go back around. All the residents will be lined up on the side of the road here and they will be required to wear a mask and gloves to hand out candy, because they are handing out. On the back side, where we don’t have apartments, where the tennis courts and basketball courts are… I have actually had some people call and say, “Can we come and help?” So they are going to come and we are going to set them up over in that area. If the kids are wearing costumes that don’t require a mask, we ask that they do put a mask on. We just want to make it fun, but safe for everybody and just do our part to help Gouverneur. All of us have been through enough with this, but the kids don’t deserve to lose Halloween. Halloween is my favorite holiday, and I wanted to make sure that this was going to be a special one for them. It is the least we can do. We have a big enough complex… We have 100 shares on Facebook already. With phone calls and responses, I am expecting we will probably have well over 100 kids come. It’s really good, not just for us but the community.”

Regarding social distancing requirements, Assistant Manager Peck said the Parkstead staff will be located throughout the property. We’ll let them know that the families can walk together, because they are a family. But the next one must be six feet apart, and we’ll just make sure that we stagger them. We are doing it from 6 to 8 p.m., so over a two-hour period, I don’t think everyone is going to come at one time. So we’ll be able to spread it out… Tell them to get to one car and then get to the next, so someone else can start. We just want to keep it moving along… We just don’t want the kids to be running all over, because that might cause some issues with the social distancing requirements.

“We looked into it. The governor is not canceling Halloween. He did say that in his press conference. And we just are making sure that whoever is handing out candy wears a mask and gloves. We are going to make sure that if they don’t wear a mask and gloves, that they are provided. We’ve already ordered masks and gloves to make sure that everyone has masks and gloves. So we will provide that, and we are just following everything that is in the guidelines right now. It is going to be a fun event, and it is for the kids. It is 100 percent for the kids…. The last group that gets here at 8 p.m., we will let them push on through. All of our residents have been given the flyers, and I am going to see if businesses around town will put them in their windows.”

Parkstead Gouverneur will also host a Best Costume Contest. “We are going to ask local business to donate prizes for the costume contest,” Assistant Property Manager Peck said. “And we are also going to be taking pictures of everybody and we are going to post them on our webpage… so that people can go in and print off their kids in their costumes.”

Parkstead Gouverneur Assistant Property Manager Sean Peck, the son of Carlton Peck (of Peck Band Awards fame), said he’s looking forward to becoming more active in the community in the future. “Everybody knows what my dad did,” he said. “Dad was always the one who made sure things were bigger than what they were supposed to be… I am following in his footsteps. I want to make sure that is really big for the kids. I am excited… my bosses are excited, and the community’s excited. We just want everyone to know that Parkstead is here. We are in this community, and we want to be a part of the community. We are going to do a lot more community activities once a lot of this passes, and we are going to do more things. We are here. We love this community, and we want to be part of the community. I just got the Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce stuff in the mail. We are going to join the Chamber… I am already an assistant director with the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Association. That fair has been a part of my life since the day I was born. I am 51, and dad has been active at the fair for 56 years, so it has been a part of my life since the day I was born. Gouverneur has always held a special place in my heart… I am here now, and I am here to stay. And now it is time for me to do what dad always wanted to do – and dad always wanted to be back here and part of the community. So now it is time for me to follow in his footsteps. So we’ll start with (Trunk N Treat) and use the Parkstead Gouverneur complex for everything.”

Parkstead Gouverneur Assistant Property Manager Sean Peck said the company has been getting more involved in the community lately with the giveaways at the Gouverneur Pumpkin Festival, social media postings, and more. The company is looking forward to inviting the public to Parkstead Gouverneur for the Halloween Trunk N Treat on October 31, 6 to 6 p.m. All CDC guidelines amid the COVID-19 crisis will be enforced.