SLC Democratic Committee presents Silas Wright Award to Ron McDougall

by Rachel Hunter

The St. Lawrence County Democratic Committee recently presented Ronald P. McDougall of Gouverneur with the Silas A. Wright Award, the highest honor bestowed up St. Lawrence County Democrats for their service to the community, the party, and upholding Democratic values.

The presentation was made by 2018 Silas Wright Award recipient Ernie LaBaff at the St. Lawrence County Democratic Committee Annual Dinner on Oct. 19 at SUNY Potsdam.

Ron McDougall was born and grew up in Waddington, NY. After graduating from Madrid-Waddington Central School, Ron began work at the St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center in 1967 before being hired in 1968 at General Motors Chevrolet Motor Division in Massena. Ron is married to Dede Scozzafava and resides in Gouverneur with a remote location of Sylvia Lake. Together, they have four children, Steven of Spreckles, Calif., Michelle of Waddington, Matthew of Macomb, and Molly of Massena.

As a General Motors employee and proud member of the UAW Local 465, Ron quickly rose through the Union Leadership ranks. As Plant Safety-Joint Programs Administrator and UAW leader, Ron learned the important partnership between organized labor and elected officials. It is safe to say that there is not a Statewide or National candidate for office who did not know Ron McDougall’ name when a trip to Northern New York was on the agenda. As a staunch advocate for organized labor, Ron was on the picket line for the previous UAW strikes, the initial one being in 1970 and supporting Union Brothers and Sisters in strikes and pickets throughout the state include the renown NYSUT Teachers strike in St. Regis Falls in 1980. This strike was one of the last public sector strikes in NY. Ron was on hand in 2009 as the UAW flag was lowered for the last time at Central Foundry/Castings in Massena.

Ron has served 38 years as the President of the Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence Counties Trades and Labor Council. Ron is Co-chair and has been involved in the Massena Solidarity Day Parade since its inception in 1980. The Solidarity Parade is one of the largest Labor Day Parades in New York State. Ron currently serves as the President of UAW Local 465 Retiree Council in Massena and serves on the Region 9 UAW Board.

Currently in his 12th year as Mayor of Gouverneur, Ron is seeking his next term. He is a delegate to the New York State Democratic Committee from Assembly District 117 and serves as a Regional Vice-President to the Democratic Rural Caucus.

The St. Lawrence County Democratic Committee reports that Ron has always been a strong supporter of politicians who back organized labor and equal rights for all. A keen observer of politics and human nature, Ron rarely forgets a name, a face, or an interaction. It is those encyclopedic qualities that have made him a force in Northern New York politics for the past 50 years.

Ron McDougall now joins the elite list of Silas Wright award Recipients, which includes the following: Francis “Bill” Healey (1995), Betty Bradley (1996), Ruth F. Garner (1997), Donald Smith and Stanley Morrill (1998), Robin M. St. Andrews (1999), James J. McFaddin (2000), Mark Bellardini (2002), Katherine B. Reasoner (2003), Patrick Brady (2004), Walter Basmajian (2005), Don and Barbara Burns (2006), K. Daniel Haley (2007), Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence Central Trades Labor Council (2008), Roger Sharlow (2009), June F. O’Neill (2010), Josie Catanzarite (2011), Keitha Arquiett (also recognized Ernie LaBaff) (2012), Marie Regan (2013), Sallie and Tom Brothers (2014), Frederick S. Morrill and Vernon “Sam” Burns (2015), Mark Bellardini (2016), Sylvia Kingston (2017), Ernie LaBaff (2018), The Democratic Family (2019), Eugene Nicandri (2022), and Ronald McDougall (2023). There were no recipients awarded in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis.

The St. Lawrence County Democratic Committee Annual Dinner also included a welcoming address, Pledge of Allegiance by Eric Yager (served as an officer in the United States Army from 2017-2018 rising from the rank of Specialist to Major), national anthem by the Madrid-Waddington choir, moment of remembrance by Zoey French of Madrid-Waddington Central School, Invocation and Benediction by Lay Pastor Martha Helmer of DeKalb Junction UMC, greetings by St. Lawrence County Democratic Committee Mike Zagrobelny, dinner, keynote address by Ken Tingley (author and retired editor of the Post-Star in Glens Falls), remarks by guest officials (Judith Hunter, Chair of the NYS DRC, and Carl A. Falotico, Supreme Court Justice Candidate) and concluding with the singing of “God Bless America”.

Many words of congratulations have been extended to Ron McDougall after he accepted the St. Lawrence County Democratic Party’s highest honor.

For more information on the St. Lawrence County Democratic Committee, visit stlcdemocrats.com

Village of Gouverneur sets Trick-or-Treating hours

by Rachel Hunter

The Village of Gouverneur has set trick-or-treating hours on Halloween, Tuesday, October 31 for 5 to 7 p.m.

The decision was made at the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees meeting on Oct. 17.

Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press are reminded to prioritize safety this Halloween. Costume and traffic safety are essential for trick-or-treaters.

The following tips can help make a safe and happy holiday for everyone:

Costume Safety: To help ensure adults and children have a safe holiday, fda.gov has compiled a list of Halloween safety tips. Before Halloween arrives, be sure to choose a costume that won't cause safety hazards. All costumes, wigs and accessories should be fire-resistant. If children are allowed out after dark, fasten reflective tape to their costumes and bags, or give them glow sticks. Opt for nontoxic Halloween makeup over masks, which can obscure vision; always test makeup in a small area first to see if any irritation develops. Remove all makeup before children go to bed to prevent skin and eye irritation.

Here's a scary statistic: Children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year. Lack of visibility because of low lighting at night also plays a factor in these incidents.

Keep these tips in mind when your children are out on Halloween night: A responsible adult should accompany young children on the neighborhood rounds. If your older children are going alone, plan and review a route acceptable to you. Agree on a specific time children should return home. Teach your children never to enter a stranger's home or car. Instruct children to travel only in familiar, well-lit areas and stick with their friends. Tell your children not to eat any treats until they return home, and take care to avoid any food allergies.

Safety Tips for Motorists: Parents and anyone who plans to be on the road during trick-or-treat hours: Watch for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs. Enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully. At twilight and later in the evening, watch for children in dark clothing. Discourage new, inexperienced drivers from driving on Halloween.

In addition to setting trick-or-treating hours, the Village of Gouverneur also promoted the upcoming Gouverneur Trunk or Treat on Friday, October 27, 6 p.m., at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds. The event is annually sponsored by the Community Health Center of the North Country and Seaway Valley Prevention Council. Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall said, “I learned today that SUNY Canton is going to have one at the same time. Interesting. (Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr.) and I made the observation that we will have more people. One year, there was 1,500 people…” For more information on the Gouverneur Trunk or Treat, call SVPC at (315) 713-4861.

Mayor McDougall also promoted the Gouverneur Recreation Department’s 28th annual Community Costume Spooktacular on Saturday, October 28, 11 a.m., at the Riverview Recreational Park in Gouverneur. There will be music, entertainment, costume party showcase, costume contest, Halloween parade and more festive fun. All ages are welcome. This event is weather permitting. For more information, call the Gouverneur Recreation Department at 315-287-0524. See related story inside this edition.

See the community calendar in this week’s Gouverneur Tribune Press for more local Halloween events.

The next meeting of the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees will be held on Tuesday, November 21, 6 p.m., in the municipal courtroom. For more information, call 315-287-1720.

Gouverneur CSD Board of Education hears proposed capital project update

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education’s decision on the proposed $57.38 million capital project has been delayed.

GCSD Superintendent of Schools Jackie Kelly gave the following update at the Sept. 25 meeting: “As you know, the plan was to ask the board to vote on a resolution for the capital project at tonight’s meeting. As part of the capital project, the district must comply with the environmental review process required by the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA). The board cannot approve an action until the SEQR process is complete. The SEQR process is not yet complete. The paperwork has all been submitted to the DEC for review, so we are just waiting to hear from them. At this time, the plan is to bring the resolution for the capital project back to the Board of Education at the meeting on October 16, 2023. Once that is approved, an official date for the vote can be set. We are still planning on that being on December 12, 2023, and we are within our timeframe to do that. If anything changes, I’ll keep the public and the board informed.”

There was a lengthy discussion about the project’s use of capital reserve funds.

In other recent school news:

The Gouverneur CSD Board of Education meeting on September 11, 2023 opened with a 9/11 remembrance. “September 11, 2001 is a day that will live in infamy. In 2001, four commercial airplanes were hijacked by the terrorist group Al-Qaeda. Two of the planes crashed into the North and South towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, another crashed into the Pentagon in Arlington County, Virginia (just outside Washington, D.C.), and the final plane crashed into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania after passengers attempted to stop the hijackers from hitting their intended target of Washington, D.C. There was a total of 2,977 victims on that day and thousands of Americans have also died since then due to 9/11 related illnesses.” Supt. Kelly then called for a moment of silence “for the victims of this terrible terrorist attack.”

During discussion, the Staff Recognition Award was presented to GMS Music Instructor Sarah Stedman. “The District Shared Decision-Making Committee has chosen Sarah Stedman to receive the Staff Recognition Award for the month of June. If you attended any of the middle school concerts during the 2022 – 2023 school year, you would know why Sarah is the recipient of this month’s recognition award. The Wildcat chorus is incredible! She instills confidence and pride in her students and they leave middle school with a true love of music. Sarah makes personal connections with her students, and she schedules lessons and rehearsals during her planning time and after school in order to meet the needs of all.” Much gratitude was extended to Ms. Stedman as she accepted the honor.

GCS Supt. Kelly then shared the following Wildcat news items:

“Although we are only a few days into the school year, it has been a great start! It began Tuesday, September 5 th with the second Annual Employee Recognition Ceremony. All employees joined Mr. Fenlong and me in recognizing a number of the members of our faculty and staff who have achieved milestones in their careers at the Gouverneur Central School District. The employees who have achieved five, ten, fifteen, twenty, twenty-five, and thirty-five years of service were recognized with a certificate and a pin. We also recognized all of our 33 new hires as well as the employees who have moved to new roles in the district. A sense of positivity and excitement swirled throughout the auditorium.

“Then on Thursday, we welcomed back our students. The students were greeted by an enthusiastic team of administrators, teachers, teaching assistants, aides, and staff in each of our buildings. It is great to have the students back.

“I’d also like to take a moment this evening to share an honor that the District received recently from Fort Drum. Prior to his reassignment to Fort Gregg-Adams in Virginia, Garrison Commander Colonel James Zacchino presented the District with a Certificate of Appreciation for exceptional service and support to our military connected students from 2021 – 2023. The certificate states: “Gouverneur Central School District leaders and educators have served Fort Drum Families with great dedication and compassion. Your commitment to educational excellence personifies the Army value of selfless service to our military community. Your professionalism is above reproach and has ensured effective and consistent communication while providing top notch educational services. Thank you for your sincere care and outstanding support of our Fort Drum military connected students.” We wish Colonel Zacchino and his family the best of luck in his new role of Deputy Quartermaster Commandant and we look forward to working with the new Garrison Commander of Fort Drum Colonel Matthew Myer.”

The Gouverneur CSD Board of Education accepted the request for resignation from Heather Richardson (Secondary Mathematics Teacher, effective August 31, 2023) and Laura Ritchie (2.75-hour Food Service Helper, effective September 7, 2023).

The board also approved the following appointments:

Through the McKinney-Vento consortium grant, GCSD is able to have the following people support our identified homeless population: M-V DTST Members include Monica Scott, Kayley Learn, Pam Mahay (Support Leader), Stephanie Plaisted (Support Leader), Christie Warren, Jenelle Yeoman. M-V Mentors: Monica Scott (Liaison/Mentor); Hunter Hitchman, Kayley Learn, Christie Warren, Grace Mashaw.

The board approved Gouverneur Elementary Afterschool Tutoring – Instructors for the 2023-2024 school year: Corey Rogers, Penny Matice.

The board approved High School Afterschool Tutoring – Instructors for the 2023-2024 school year: Lisa Carbone, Sarah Wood, Sam Sochia, Nanette Holt, Jean Johnson.

The board appointed Billie Jean Sheen and Mackenzie D. Reynolds to the positions of Teacher Aide. The board appointed Kaylee Ordway to the position of Individual Aide. The board also approved the appointment of the following GCS staff as tutors for 2023-24: Lisa Carbone, Christine Cognetti, Tabitha Kirkpatrick, Jessica Miller, Marie Moore, Ken Nicholas, Kim Reed, Melinda Schiszler, Monica Scott, Robert Webster, Saddie Whitaker, Terri Whitaker, Cherie Zira.

The board approved the appointment of returning substitutes and tutors for 2023-24: Penny Matice, Tutor; Hannah Stowell, Teacher, Teaching Assistant. The board approved the appointment of the following new substitutes for 2023-24, pending completion of all requirements: Cafeteria: Penny Petrie. Classroom (Teacher, Teaching Assistant, Aide): Caitlin Cardinell; Alyssa Edick; Kaitlynn Morse; Nicole Marriott; Jamie Mitchell; Danielle Newton; Grace Pope; Brianna Prashaw; Danielle Towne. Clerical: Patricia LaClair.

The board also approved 2023-24 Advisors as follows: Cory Young (Deanonian, Grade 12 Advisor, Math Club, Webmaster), Emily Bason (Musical Director No. 1, Whiz Quiz), Robert Decker (GHS Art Club, Musical Set Director), Kylie Spinner (FFA), Brett Worden (Select Choir-Chamber Singers), Bethanie Denesha (Deanonian 2, Grade 11 Advisor), Julia Streeter (Honor Society 9-12), Paul Buell (Select Strings), Brett Lupi (Stage Band), Evelyn Barton (GHS Student Council), Sarah Wood (Varsity Club, Science Olympiad, Grade 11 Advisor), Samuel Sochia (Science Olympiad), Heather Parker (Grade 12 Advisor), Kathleen Stamper (Grade 10 Advisor), Jean Johnson (Grade 9 Advisor), Michael Bason (Competitive Speaking Club, Senior High Fall Play), Meaghan Matthews (Costume Club), Hailey Cook (Winter Color Guard), Alissa Collier (K-Kids Club), Brooke June (Elementary Robotics), Katherine Doster (Elementary Military Kids Club), Jenelle (Yeoman) Patchin (Pep Band, Tri-M Advisor).

The board also approved Pam Stevens for 12 hours (two days of curriculum work) with the 12:1:1 classroom.

The board approved the appointment of the following students as Monitors for the 2023-2024 school year, pending completion of all requirements: Kaden Wells, Gavin Davis, Madison Hopper. These students will be assisting in the Auditorium with lights, sound and stage setup for a number of events this school year.

The board acknowledged the unpaid leave of absence for childrearing purposes for a probationary employee from September 1, 2023 through April 16, 2024. The board approved the appointment of Anita Sleeman to the non-probationary position of long-term substitute.

The board approved the appointment of Joseph Wahl Jr. to the non-probationary position of long-term substitute for the Physical Education position that is encumbered by a vacancy, effective September 7 through November 8, 2023.

The school board approved the following teachers as mentors or mentees for the 2023-24 school year. The mentees include: Michele Brenno, Mike Bryant, Jamie DeRusso, Brett Lupi, Grace Mashaw, Julie Neiss, Korrine Patterson, Alexis Ritter, Kylie Spinner, Carol Trombly, Jade Walker, Gina White, Colter Whitmore, Pat Williams, Brett Worden. The mentors include: Brittany Buckmaster, Lisa Carbone, Alissa Collier, Robert Decker, Beth Denesha, Sara LaPoint, Brittany Lewis, Amber Ormasen, Monica Scott (mentoring 2 mentees), Elizabeth Siebels, Sam Sochia, Shawn Typhair, Marcy Tyler, Jenelle (Yeoman) Patchin (mentoring 2 mentees).

The board appointed Bette Prashaw, Carol Ormasen, and Jamie Mitchell as 2.75-hour food service helpers.

The board appointed Patricia Williams to the temporary position of Family and Consumer Science teacher, effective September 11, 2023 through June 26, 2024.

The board approved the appointment of Abigail Bowman as the Student Board Representative for 2023-24. Ms. Bowman is the president of the Student Senate and is a member of the High School Class of 2024. Vice President Bates commented that the board appreciates GHS Principal Cory Wood putting her name forward and they look forward to working with her.

The board approved a merger request with Harrisville Central School District to allow their students to participate on the Gouverneur Wildcat Boys Cross-Country Team at all levels during the 2023-24 school year.

The board accepted with gratitude and appreciation the donation of 100 bottles of sunscreen from Kinney Drugs to the district schools.

The board accepted with appreciation and gratitude the donation of $105 from the Class of 1973 received on September 6, 2023. This donation will be combined with a previous donation from the Class of 2018 in the amount of $1,850 to be donated to the new school store at he high school. Supt. Kelly shared the School Store was started by the Class of 2018. GHS Principal Wood said that, in addition to school supplies, general Wildcat apparel would be available, and students would run the store and learn about merchandising, etc. President extended gratitude to those involved for their generosity.

At the Sept. 25, the GCSD Board of Education welcomed the new Student Board Representative Abigail Bowman.

Supt. Kelly offered the following announcement in the Wildcat News segment: “I’m proud to announce the launch of the Positivity Project, fondly known as P2, across the district in Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8. The Positivity Project is an initiative designed to promote character strengths and foster a positive school culture. During the second week of school, the entire Gouverneur Middle School united in an extraordinary drone photo shoot, capturing an aerial view of the symbolic P2 shield. The Positivity Project, a widely recognized program, equips schools with resources to cultivate character development and positive relationships. By embracing the 24 character strengths, the Gouverneur Elementary School and the Gouverneur Middle School aims to create a supportive learning environment where students thrive academically, socially and emotionally. Through the Positivity Project, the Gouverneur Central School District is committed to nurturing kindness, empathy, and collaboration among students. This week’s character trait is teamwork, and as adults we all know how important this trait is throughout life. I am looking forward to keeping the public and the board informed throughout the school year about the great success we experience with this new initiative.

“I’d also like to take a moment this evening to recognize Lauren French. The Distinguished Service Award is given in recognition to one individual who has shown exemplary commitment to public education. This award is going to be presented to Lauren, Retired Life Member and former superintendent of the Gouverneur Central School District. Lauren served on the Board of Directors for LEAF, Inc., the Executive Committee, House of Delegates, Commissioner’s Advisory Council, the Conference Committee, and the Membership Sub-committee and has presented at Women’s Initiative programs, the Future Superintendents’ Academy (FSA), and the New Superintendents’ Institute throughout her career as a superintendent. In retirement, she continues to support both NYSCOSS and LEAF, Inc. through teaching FSA participants and co-facilitating a webinar series on personal and financial wellness for education leaders with Equitable. She also serves as a leadership coach for LEAF, Inc.’s Leadership Coaching program. This award will be presented to Lauren during the opening keynote on Sunday, October 1, 2023… Congratulations to Lauren.” Great applause sounded in recognition of Mrs. French’s great achievements.

The school board was invited to attend the Southwest Tech (BOCES) Open House on Oct. 5, 5 to 7 p.m., in Fowler.

The school board approved a series of memorandum of agreements. A MOA was approved between GCSD and the Gouverneur Education Association to recognize the Fall and Spring Trap Team advisors as presented. A MOA between GCSD and the Gouverneur Education Association was approved to provide addition compensation to teachers who voluntarily forfeit a preparation period in order to provide coverage for a class period and teaching assistants who substitute teach when no substitutes or other appropriate means are available. A MOA between GCSD and the Gouverneur School Related Personnel Union was approved to provide the additional compensation to teacher aides who substitute teach when no substitutes or other appropriate means are available. A MOA between GCSD and the Gouverneur Administrators Association was approved to include provisions for the job title of athletic coordinator for 2023-24 as presented.

The school board approved the following appointments: GES Afterschool Tutoring Instructor (Caitlyn Sullivan), GMS Afterschool Tutoring Instructors (Kim Reed, Melissa Sweeney, Jennifer Wilcox, Danielle Peake, Terri Whitaker, Brandon Griffin, Robert Webster, Christine Cognetti, Nola Farns, Julie Neiss, Melinda Schiszler, Shari Ronas, Gina Taylor, Sean Devlin, Lisa Stowell), GMS Afterschool Tutoring Lead Teacher Stacey Devlin, High School Detention Monitors Bob Dunkelberg and Lisa Dunkelberg.

The board also approved the following substitute appointments. For Teacher/Teaching Assistant/Aide: Hailey Cook, Gina Johnson, Alexandria Klimowicz, Bridget White. For Cafeteria: Britney Gardner, Amy Saxbury-Christensen. For Clerical: Patricia Bush.

The board approved the following 2023-24 advisors: Paul Cappellino (Fall Trapshooting Team), Brandon Griffin (Drama Club 7/8), Monica Scott (Honor Society 7/8), Heather Rose (Student Council 7/8), Sarah Stedman (Military Kids Club HS/MS), Kelly Wilson (Military Kids Club HS/MS), and Lisa Stowell (History Club).

The board approved the appointment of Cortney Evans-Eppolito as a Lifeguard Instructor for the 2023-2024 school year.

The board appointed Kylie Helvie to the temporary position of special education teacher (September 26, 2023 to June 26, 2024).

The board granted an unpaid leave of absence to Aaron McEathron from his position as physical education teacher for the purpose of serving as the athletic coordinator for the 2023-24 school year.

The board acknowledged the medical leave for an employee from September 5 to September 28, 2023.

The board approved the leave of absence of Kimberly Flood from her position as Food Service Helper (5-hour) and appoint her as a long-term substitute cook (6.5-hour) for an employee, beginning on September 26, 2023 to continue until employee returns, expected on or about December 31, 2023.

The board formally accepted the gift of the donation from the family and friends of Mrs. Jenny Reddick (’64), in the amount of $325.00, and increase the 2023-24 budget by the same. Ms. Reddick passed away June 12, 2023. In her memory the family asked in lieu of flowers a donation be made to the GHS Art Department. It is the wish of the family to provide these funds to assist our Art Department to encourage and develop our student artists. This gift is in addition to that accepted at the July 31, 2023 regular Board of Education meeting.

The next meeting of the Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education will be held on Monday, October 16, 5:30 p.m., in the GHS auditorium. For more information, visit gcsk12.org.

Public welcome to Open Swim at GHS Pool

The Gouverneur High School has announced that open swim began on Monday, September 25th.

Morning swim will be offered Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6:00 to 7:15 a.m.

It will be open to the public for a cost of $1.25 per person.

For more info, please call the Gouverneur CSD Athletic Office at 315-287-1900.

Gouverneur Recreation Department to offer scarecrow making, games and more at 2023 Gouverneur Pumpkin Festival

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Recreation Department will offer scarecrow making, carnival games, scavenger hunt and other children’s activities at the 2023 Gouverneur Pumpkin Festival this Sunday, September 24, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds. The announcement was made at the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees meeting on September 19 by Gouverneur Recreation Department Director Casey Canell. In 2023, the Gouverneur Pumpkin Festival is a two-day event, September 23-24. See the full schedule inside this edition.

Director Canell also reported the Gouverneur Recreation Department’s Fall 2023 schedule as follows:

The Before-School Morning Program meets weekdays at the Gouverneur Elementary School. In partnership with the Gouverneur Central School District, the enrichment program features early morning wake-up activities, interactive social play, arts and crafts, breakfast and more. Highlights this month included a Meet and Greet with families at the school.

There is bus transportation provided by the Gouverneur Central School District for the After-School Program (Recreation Center Studio), which offers recreational opportunities exploring the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) field. There are theme days and guests with fine arts appreciation, gaming stations with tournaments, interactive social play. The after-school program is open on Monday and Wednesday from Grades 2-4 and Tuesday and Thursday for UPK-Grade 1. Highlights this month included fall fun theme days.

Toddler Town continues to meet on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. The recreational preschool playgroup program features interactive socialization, music, art, story, snack, and active play.

The Senior Citizens Program continues to meet on Friday mornings for bingo and coffee social. The program features food bingo games with socialization. All area seniors are welcome.

Much gratitude was extended to the Spilman family for their continued support of the Rec Center facility.

The next meeting of the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees will be held on October 17, 6 p.m., at the municipal courtroom. For more information about the Gouverneur Recreation Department, call 315-287-0524.

Local poultry fanciers crow about awards

by Rachel Hunter

North Country poultry fanciers were among the over 125 exhibitors at the 41st Annual Show of the Twin Tier Poultry Club in Bath, NY. The show included over 1,300 birds (226 large fowl, 713 bantams, 381 waterfowl, 6 guineas, and 3 turkeys).

Among the honors presented at the show, Twin Tier Poultry Club Show Secretary Robert Whitney presented the following honors to the local poultry fanciers:

Floyd Rood of Hermon won Champion Old English Game Bantam in the Open Show. His granddaughter, Makayla Brown of Hermon, won Champion Old English Game Bantam in the Junior Show.

Autumn Genter of Edwards won Reserve Champion Continental in the Junior Show for her Salmon Faverolles.

Other North Country poultry fanciers participating in the open competition included the following: John Hunter of Can-Am Cluckers in Gouverneur, Tim Tallman of North Bangor, Craig and Tammy Cook of Lisbon, and Keep on Truckin’ Homestead in LaFargeville. The local poultry fanciers also enjoyed connecting with exhibitors from all over the United States (Florida, Maine, Ohio, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Delaware, Vermont, New Jersey, West Virginia) and Canada.

Rachel Hunter of Gouverneur won the top prizes in the Twin Tier Club Poultry Club’s 2023 Arts and Crafts Competition, winning Grand Champion and People’s Choice honors for a 5x7 inch acrylic painting depicting the poultry evaluation at a previous Northern New York Poultry Fanciers Fall Show. The painting was matted and framed in a 8x10 inch barnwood frame that was purchased through North Country CrossRoads in Gouverneur. She also received Reserve Grand Champion for a 5x7 photo of a Columbian Wyandotte at Can-Am Cluckers in Gouverneur. She also received first place honors on a rooster-themed handpainted wooden pendant.

The North Country poultry fanciers extended much gratitude to the Twin Tier Poultry Club for the exceptional show experience, and look forward to exhibiting once again in 2024.

The Northern New York Poultry Fanciers will promote poultry excellence this Sunday, September 17 at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds with its 25th Fall Show. NNYPF President John Hunter of Gouverneur said over 4s00 birds have been registered into the competition. Judging will start at 9:30 a.m. For more information, call NNYPF Show Secretary Floyd Rood of Hermon at 315-379-9498.

Walk With A Doc in Gouverneur is this Saturday

Walk With A Doc in Gouverneur will be held this Saturday, September 9, 10 a.m., at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds.

The free, fun walk will be led by Gouverneur’s own Brittany Terpstra, PA, from the Community Health Center of the North Country. The topic is “Staying Active This Coming Winter.” The event is open for all and is for people of all abilities.

There is great anticipation for the second and final Walk With A Doc in Gouverneur of the 2023 year.

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

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

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

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

Walking was recognized by the Surgeon General of the United States of America as one of the single most important things we can do for our health. Now, as we usher in 2023, is the time to join the movement in making health and happiness accessible for all.

Walk With A Doc has released a list of 100 reasons why walking is important, and it can be viewed online at walkwithadoc.org. Did you know that walking is one of the best things you can do for your health? Many diseases, conditions, and ailments can be prevented or even healed by participating in regular physical activity. Fortunately, even moderate-intensity aerobic activity such as walking can provide these health benefits.

The public is welcome to join Walk With A Doc in Gouverneur this Saturday, September 9, 10 a.m., at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds. For more information, contact the Community Health Center of the North Country at 315-713-9369.

Bottle/Can Drive Fundraiser to benefit Gouverneur Wildcat Boys Basketball Program is Monday

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Wildcat Boys Basketball Program will hold a can and bottle drive fundraiser on Monday, September 4, 9 a.m. to noon, at Newvine’s NAPA Auto Parts in Gouverneur. Volunteers are also willing to pick-up cans and bottles at local residences and businesses on Monday. Call 315-212-6515 to arrange for pick-up.

The funds raised will go towards the purchase of new basketball warm-ups for the JV and Varsity teams, and to offset the cost of entry fees for upcoming tournaments, and team dinners throughout the school year.

All North Country residents are urged to show their support of the Gouverneur Wildcats at this fundraiser. For more information on the Gouverneur Wildcat Boys Basketball Program, visit their Facebook page.

Notice: Village streets to be paved on Monday, Tuesday

The Village of Gouverneur Department of Public Works has informed the motoring public that Grove Street, Helena Street, and McKean Street is expected to be paved on Monday, August 28 and Tuesday, August 29. Work will begin at 7 a.m. and continue throughout the two days. If inclement weather exists, the scheduled will change.

During the two days, throughout the day, these streets may be shut down to thru traffic and only emergency vehicles will be allowed through.

“We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your cooperation,” Village of Gouverneur DPW Supt. TJ Simmons said.

For more information about the Village of Gouverneur, call 315-287-1720.

Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary to host 26th Antiques In The Park on August 26

by Rachel Hunter

The 26th Antiques In The Park, sponsored by the Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary, will be held on Saturday, August 26, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., in the Gouverneur Village Park. All funds raised will be used in support of the Gouverneur Hospital, an affiliate of St. Lawrence Health and Rochester Regional Health.

This will be the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic crisis that the ever-popular Antiques In The Park will be held in Gouverneur. The Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary recognized Antiques In The Park’s 25th anniversary in 2018. With the unwavering support from the community, the GH Auxiliary hopes that the event will once again be a thriving success and continue to grow in future years.

As of press time this week, the following antique dealers had already registered to be featured vendors at the 2023 Antiques In The Park: Peter Burke of DeKalb Junction, Suzann Conklin of DeKalb Junction, Gary Scott of Gouverneur, Mavis Bush and Karen Averill of Canton, Linda Gault of Watertown, Tammy Finley of Gouverneur, Carol Venton of Gouverneur, and Mike and Jodi Hatch of Hailesboro. North Country residents and visitors alike can expect to see antique furniture, vintage clothing, glassware and so much more at this year’s event. The Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary is still seeking vendors, and all antiques dealers are urged to contact GHA President Kim Halpin for more information at 315-276-4494.

The Gouverneur Museum will have a historic display at the Antiques In The Park and the Gouverneur Museum will be open throughout the day at their 30 Church St. location, just a short walk from the Gouverneur Village Park.

Antiques In The Park will also include a food truck, bake sale, raffles and auctions.

The Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary will hold their big raffle fundraiser, an antique picture frame (donated by the Gouverneur) filled with a $100 bill and $100 worth of lottery tickets (made possible by the GH Auxiliary). Raffle tickets are $2 each or three tickets for $5. The tickets are currently on sale at the Lifesaver Gift Shop at the Gouverneur Hospital. Also, GHA representatives will be at Kinney Drugs on Clinton Street selling tickets on August 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, and 25th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets will also be sold at the event in the park. The drawing will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, August 26 in the Gouverneur Village Park.

The Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary will also hold a silent auction, thanks to the generous small businesses and residents in Gouverneur and the surrounding communities. To learn more or to donate, call Nancy Green at 315-287-7750.

There is much anticipation in Gouverneur for the return of the Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary’s Antiques in the Park, and the North Country community is encouraged to come out in great numbers to support the Gouverneur Hospital. For more information on the Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary, call GHA President Kim Halpin at 315-276-4494.

Village paving delayed one week due to rain

by Rachel Hunter

The Village of Gouverneur reports that the paving projects on Grove St., McKean St., and Helena St. were delayed one week due to the recent rainy weather.

Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that the paving was originally scheduled for the second week in August, following the 2023 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair. It is now anticipated for this upcoming week, the third week in August.

The announcement was made by Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall at the Town of Gouverneur Council meeting last Tuesday. For more information, call the Village of Gouverneur at 315-287-1720.

Gouverneur CSD to provide free school supplies for district students

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Central School District recently informed the community that, for the 2023 - 2024 school year, the Gouverneur Central School District will once again provide all students with free school supplies. Historically, teachers have provided families with school supply lists prior to the start of the school year. This year, families will not have to assume any of the costs related to purchasing school supplies. The District will be using a portion of federal funding to purchase school supplies for all students. The supplies have been ordered and will be distributed to students during the first week of school.

In other news: The Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education held a meeting on Monday, July 31 in the Gouverneur High School auditorium. Board President David Fenlong called the meeting to order, and all then stood and recited the Pledge of Allegiance.

GCS Superintendent of Schools Jackie Kelly then told of a “couple great things happening in the District” that she wanted to share with all those present at the July 31 board meeting.

Supt. Kelly first recognized GHS Science Teacher Lisa Dunkelberg on a recent achievement.

“Jan DeWaters, assistant professor in the Institute for STEM Education in the School of Engineering at Clarkson University, and three New York State high school teachers recently returned from Taiwan where they gave a workshop on project-based energy education. Lisa Dunkelberg, a science teacher at Gouverneur High School, along with DeWaters and two other educators led the two-day workshop. The workshop was a follow-up to a weeklong workshop previously delivered in Taiwan by DeWaters’ team. This is one component of a multi-year initiative to promote energy literacy, energy education, and green energy technology development. The workshops were attended by approximately 50 middle and high school teachers from all over Taiwan. I’d like to congratulate Mrs. Dunkelberg on this great achievement. We are lucky to have her on our team, and we are proud when someone of Lisa’s caliber is in a foreign country, because she is not only representing Gouverneur, but she is showing off the strong commitment we have to high quality teaching here at the District. Congratulations, Lisa.” Great applause sounded throughout the auditorium as the announcement was made.

Supt. Kelly also shared the following: “Last week, a team of administrators, teachers, counselors, and support staff from the Gouverneur Central School District attended the Positivity Project Summer Leadership Conference in Savannah, Ga. The Positivity Project (also known as P2) was first implemented at the Gouverneur Elementary School in the 2022-23 School Year. This year, it will be implemented through Grade 8. This program is designed to empower students to build more positive relationships with one another, and with their teachers. P2 is a character education curriculum that enables students to understand, appreciate, and exemplify the importance of character in themselves and others. The program focuses on character strengths, such as creativity, perseverance, open-mindedness, and love, providing the foundation for genuine self-confidence grounded in self-awareness. Character strengths aren’t about ignoring the negative. Instead, they help students overcome life’s inevitable adversities. Through the use of federal funding, the District was able to send and train 10 employees in preparation for the implementation of P2 this school year.”

Supt. Kelly then shared a letter written to the Board of Education from Gouverneur Middle School Principal Robert Kotz. “Dear Board of Education Members and Mrs. Kelly, I would like to thank you for the opportunity to attend the Positivity Project Summer Leadership Conference. It was a great experience for all members of the team, which included four members from the Gouverneur Elementary School and six members from the Gouverneur Middle School. Throughout the conference our team had the opportunity to explore various topics related to fostering positivity, resilience, and empathy in our educational environment. Our team is confident that the positive impact of this conference will extend beyond the classroom, benefiting the faculty, staff, and community. Our team felt that the sessions provided us with practical tools and strategies that we can implement during the upcoming school year. The financial support provided by the American Rescue Plan federal funding made it possible for our team to collaborate with the extended Positivity Project community. We believe that the connections we have made at the conference will continue to provide many diverse ideas and strategies throughout the years to come. Sincerely, Bob Kotz and the P2 Leadership Team.” Updates from the P2 team will be provided to the school board throughout the year. After a question from Board Member Laurie Roberts, Supt. Kelly said: “There is a curriculum that is part of the Positivity Project. That will occur in morning meetings, advisory at the Middle School. The curriculum is very easy to use. It is a quick one- to two-minute video, and then it results in discussions amongst the kids and the staff. We are excited to see where it goes.”

Board President David Fenlong, in unfinished business, reported that a public hearing was held on July 10, 2023 with Rob Klimowicz, District Chief Safety Officer, in attendance. No additional comments have been received and the draft 2023-2024 School Safety Plan has not been changed since it was posted. The 2023-2024 School Safety Plan will be adopted at the next meeting on August 21, 2023.

Upon presentation and recommendation of Supt. Jackie Kelly, the Board approved the following items as a Consent Agenda: Minutes of the Organizational Meeting of July 10, 2023 (now posted online at gcsk12.org), CSE Business, and CPSE Business.

Upon presentation and recommendation of Supt. Jackie Kelly, the Board approved the following personnel items: The school board accepted the resignations from Hannah Jock, Physical Education Teacher, effective July 11, 2023, Katrina L. Moore, agriculture teacher, effective August 29, 2023, Nichole Johnson, special education teacher, effective August 30, 2023, and Cortney Evans-Eppolito, high school physical education teacher, effective July 26, 2023.

The school board also approved the following appointments: Adrienne Lake (CSE, CPSE Chairperson), Korrine Patterson (Physical Education Teacher), Michelle Benda (Physical Education Teacher), Marietta Kitto (Family and Consumer Science Teacher), Katrina Cook (Keyboard Specialist), and Stacie Hale (School Nurse).

The school board also appointed Brittany Fairbanks, LPN, for the 2023 Begindergarten Program from August 21-24, 9 to 11 a.m.

The school board approved up to three days between August 1-31 for new curriculum planning for the following teachers Mike Bryant (Business), Alexis Ritter (Art), Heather Parker (12:1:1) and Lisa Dunkelberg (Biology).

The board approved up to 10 days between August 1-31 for Jamie DeRusso for summer guidance support.

The board approved the appointment of returning substitutes for 2023-24 as presented, including: Maureen Baer, Amber Barr, Valerie Bogardus, Jeffrey Burt, Antoinette Cogan, Adrienne Cox, Nicole Cudhea, Pamela Doty, Nazzarena Easton, Julia Fahrig, Michelle Fiacco, John Free, Shawna Gilbo, Kim Harmer, Jennifer Hay, Kylie Helvie, Sabrina Jones, Brandy Kelley, Julieanne Koerick, Anita Mantia, Tracy McCarthy, Ethan Mitchell, Peyton Mussaw, Amanda Newvine, Kaylee Ordway, Donna Parks, Chelsi Peck, Sullivan Rumble, Maureen Schesser, Cathy Schiszler, Nikolaus Schiszler, Deana Shepard, Roxanne Todd, Ciera Vanderbogart, Joseph Wahl, Patricia Williams, and Ling Wu.

The school board approved the following Fall 2023-24 Coach recommendation for Modified Girls Soccer Coach Chelsie Griffith, pending completion of any outstanding certification requirements.

The school board approved the appointment of students as lifeguards for the 2023-24 school year, pending completion of all requirements. This includes Raegan Devlin, William Riutta, and Riley Shepherd.

The school board acknowledged the unpaid leave of absence for childrearing purposes for a tenured employee in accordance with Article 12.3.1 of the contract with the Gouverneur Teachers association.

The board also appointed Polly Sergel to a non-tenure track appointment as an English teacher.

The board approved a series of temporary appointments. Grace Mashaw was appointed to the one-year position of teaching assistant-counselor for the 2023-24 school year, funded by the American Rescue Plan. Jade Walker was appointed to the one-year position of teaching assistant-counselor for the 2023-24 school year, funded by the American Rescue Plan. Paul Buell was appointed to the temporary position of Music Teacher for the 2023-24 school year in a non-probationary capacity without eligible for an appointment on tenure, funded by the American Rescue Plan. Michelle Brenno was appointed to the temporary position of Special Education teacher for the 2023-24 school year in a non-probationary capacity without eligibility for an appointment on tenure.

Upon presentation and recommendation of Supt. Kelly, the Board rescinded the appointment of Michelle LaVigne as School Tax Collector and appointed Rachel Wainwright, Village of Gouverneur, as School Tax Collector for 2023-24. Supt. Kelly said: “Prior to COVID, the Village did collect our taxes for us. as we’ve done in the past, the Village is going to once again collect our school taxes this year. Rachel Wainwright will be collecting taxes in person daily at the village offices located at 33 Clinton St., Gouverneur. Taxes can be paid Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and taxpayers can still mail in tax payments and the address will be listed on the bill. But taxes will no longer be collected here at the high school. This option actually provides better hours to the taxpayers to pay their taxes in person…”

The board also had its first policy review reading of four policies. Policy 3420 (Non-Discrimination and anti-harassment in the School District) was updated. The Civil Rights Compliance Officer was changed from Carol LaSala to Jessica Sullivan. Policy 3421 (Title IX and Sex Discrimination) was updated. The Title IX Coordinator changed from Carol LaSala to Jessica Sullivan. Policy 5676 (Privacy and Security for Student Data and Teacher and Principal Data) was updated. The Data Protection Officer changed from Shannon Mattice to Jacquelyn L. Kelly. Policy 6122 (Sexual Harassment in the Workplace) was updated in response to the release of an updated model sexual harassment prevention policy for employers in NYS. This is a required policy. The board will take action on these policy changes at the next board meeting on August 21.

The school board approved the AIA Document C132-2019 Standard Form of Agreement Between Owner and Construction Manager as Advisor for the Middle School Renovations & Site Work Project.

The school board declared the following equipment as surplus and authorized the Business Manager to sell or dispose of the following items: one small kettle, two steamers, one double kettle, one 4-burner vulcan gas stove, five double convection ovens.

The school board formally accepted the gift of the donation from the family and friends of Jenny Reddick (GHS ’64), in the amount of $830, and increase the 2023-24 budget by the same. Ms. Reddick passed away on June 12, 2023. In her memory the family asked in lieu of flowers a donation be made to the GHS Art Department. It is the wish of the family to provide these funds to assist our Art Department to encourage and develop the student artists. Board President Fenlong extended gratitude to all those who donated in memory of Mrs. Reddick. “We appreciate this,” he said.

The school board also adopted RS 2418 (Standard Work Day Resolution for Employees). It was resolved that the district established the standard work days for its employees and will report days worked to the New York State and Local employees’ Retirement System based on the time keeping system or the record of activities maintained and submitted by these members to the clerk of this body. The Print Aide will work 7.5 hours per day.

The next meeting of the Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education will be held on Monday, August 21, 5:30 p.m., in the GHS auditorium.

Village promises to help raise up presenters at 2023 GBOC Walk

by Rachel Hunter

Marilyn LaPierre of Gouverneur inquired at the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees meeting on July 18 if the new gazebo would be installed in time for the 2023 Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund Walk on Saturday, October 7. Mrs. LaPierre is member of the Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund Committee.

Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall said, “It is iffy, to be fair, if we are going to have it in time or not for the Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund Walk. However, we are committed to getting a truck or build a temporary stage, if it is not there… We have to have something to raise people up. We’ll know when we get closer, but either way, we are committed to doing that.”

“That is greatly appreciated,” Mrs. LaPierre said. “Thank you.”

The 2023 Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund Walk is scheduled to be held on Saturday, October 7 in Gouverneur. More information will be published as details are finalized. The Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund assists individuals who live in St. Lawrence, Jefferson, Lewis, and Franklin counties, New York, by providing financial assistance with household, medical, travel, and living expenses during a patient's treatment of both breast and ovarian cancers. All financial support received goes directly to assist newly diagnosed patients with their recovery. For more information, visit www.gouverneurbreastovariancancerfund.com.

Gouverneur Community Wide Rummage Sales this weekend

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Community Wide Rummage Sale Weekend will be held on Friday, July 14 through Sunday, July 16. See inside this edition of the Gouverneur Tribune Press for the rummage sale listings. A decades-long tradition for many North Country families, all local residents are urged to shop at all the rummage sales in the greater Gouverneur community.

The Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce, going great in Gouverneur in since 1908, has encouraged participation in the 2023 Gouverneur Community Wide Rummage Sale Weekend. Executive Director Donna Besaw told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that the Chamber has secured the official permits to allow anyone to set up a rummage sale in the Gouverneur Village Park from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on July 14-16. Many North Country residents have seen the huge banners advertising the event in downtown Gouverneur, which were provided through the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce and installed by the Village of Gouverneur Department of Public Works.

There is great anticipation for the 2023 Gouverneur Community Wide Rummage Sale Weekend with hopes for lots of participation from residents in Gouverneur and the surrounding communities. For more information on the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce, visit www.gouverneurchamber.net.

GVFD to host fireworks spectacular this Sunday

Gouverneur Volunteer Fire Department is celebrating 145 years of service to Gouverneur and the surrounding areas by hosting the largest, most spectacular, and longest fireworks held in the North Country on Sunday, July 2, at dusk, at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds.

There are local vendors here selling hamburgers, hot dogs, BBQ, pizza, fried dough, cotton candy, candy apples, popcorn, toys, cheesecake on a stick, locomotive rides and much more. So enjoy the show and support your local vendors.

Be on the lookout for the firemen selling 50-50 raffle tickets. These are also available at the fireman’s tent.

The show is sponsored by local businesses: Superior Plus Energy Services, Conklin Insurance, The Casablanca Restaurant, Dunn Paper, GS&L Northland Veterinary Hospital, KT Contracting, Empire Northeast, RSI Roofing, Tripp Fuels div of Glider Oil, Blevins Ford, Cives Steel, Vanderbilt Minerals LLC, MRSLC, Newvine’s Napa, Fun Unlimited, Hill Top Energy, Titan Mining.

“This show wouldn’t be possible without the contributions from these fine local sponsors,” the Gouverneur Fire Department said in a prepared statement. “We wish everyone a safe holiday and enjoy the show.”

Jesus Revolution: Richville Church to host movie matinee this Saturday, June 24

The Lighthouse Community Church will hold a matinee movie showing of “Jesus Revolution” on Saturday, June 24, 1:30 p.m., at 209 Main St., Richville. Admission is free, and free snacks and refreshments will be served.

Inspired by a true movement, “Jesus Revolution” tells the story of a young Greg Laurie (Joel Courtney) being raised by his struggling mother, Charlene (Kimberly Williams-Paisley) in the 1970s. Laurie and a sea of young people descend on sunny Southern California to redefine truth through all means of liberation. Everything changes when Laurie meets Lonnie Frisbee (Jonathan Roumie), a charismatic hippie-street-preacher, and Pastor Chuck Smith (Kelsey Grammer) who have thrown open the doors of Smith’s languishing church to a stream of wandering youth. What unfolds becomes the greatest spiritual awakening in American history. Rock and roll, radical love, and newfound faith lead to a “Jesus Revolution” that turns one counterculture movement into a revival that changes the world.

The North Country community is invited and welcome to attend.

Gouverneur Ecumenical VBS to be held June 26-30 at First UMC Gouverneur

by Rachel Hunter

Gouverneur’s Ecumenical Vacation Bible School this summer will be Monday, June 26 to Friday, June 30, 2023 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. (noon). Sponsored by the Gouverneur United Methodist and St. James Churches, VBS will be held at the First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur this year.

All boys and girls from 4 years old through those who have just finished 6th grade are welcome and encouraged to attend. Teenagers who have finished grade 7 are welcome to come and help.

This summer, the 2023 Gouverneur Ecumenical VBS will be “stellar,” and local youths will be launched on a cosmic quest where they’ll have a blast shining Jesus’ light to the world.

For more information or to pre-register, visit gouverneurumc.org.

Gouverneur to commemorate Flag Day this Saturday

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce will present the Flag Day Parade and Business Extravaganza in conjunction with the Friends of the Library’s Arts In The Park Celebration this Saturday, June 10, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., in the Gouverneur Village Park. The day promises to be jam-packed with loads of family-friendly fun for the young and young-at-heart.

Flag Day – which commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States on June 14, 1777 – has been celebrated in the Gouverneur community with much fanfare since the Elks held their Flag Day Ritual here in the early 1900s. The Flag Day festivities expanded over time, much to the credit of the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce (going great since 1908), and now is a family tradition for many North Country families, especially those in Gouverneur and the surrounding communities. And the 2023 Flag Day Parade and Business Extravaganza is no exception.

The Gouverneur Village Park will be the place to be on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. In addition to the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce’s Business Extravaganza (in keeping with their mission to encourage North Country residents to shop local), the Friends of the Library will host the 32nd Annual Arts In The Park Celebration featuring over a dozen local artists and crafters. Through major fundraisers like Arts in the Park, the Friends of the Library are able to further assist the Gouverneur Public Library with wish-list items as directed by management. Due to generous community support in years past, the Friends have been able to support the Gouverneur Public Library with the purchase of the book drop-off bin located at the library’s entrance, a large screen monitor for the library loft, and a shelving cart to help assist in the re-shelving of books, among other needed items. All North Country residents are encouraged to show their support of the Gouverneur Public Library this Saturday. The artists and crafters will be on site from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The rain location will be St. James School.

Also available throughout the day will be children’s games (made possible by the Gouverneur Recreation Department), farmers market vendors, food trucks (including Rollin’ Soul, Mullin’s, and Cotton Candy ‘N More), static display of vehicles from Ft. Drum, vendors and displays from local businesses, service organizations, churches, and community groups, music by DJ Bob Hughes and so much more.

The Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 will tell the history of the flag during a special ceremony at 12:30 p.m. in the Gouverneur Village Park. All are invited to come and join the commemoration of the American Flag. The Gouverneur Elks, with support from other volunteers, will carry their large American Flag in the Flag Day Parade. It is reported to be one of the largest in Northern New York.

The Gouverneur Flag Day Parade is at 2 p.m. Line-up is at 1 p.m. Parade participants are urged to enter on Wilson St., marching down to the Johnstown Street intersection. The parade will turn left down Main Street, going over the Route 11 Bridge (over the Oswegatchie River) and march by the crowds in the Gouverneur Village Park. The Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce announced this week that Gouverneur Chamber Director Donna Lawrence will serve as emcee and call the parade. Anyone interested in participating in the parade is welcome. The Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce will award a $50 prize for the Most Patriotic Float (presented following the parade).

Among the many parade participants looking forward to being in the 2023 Gouverneur Flag Day Parade are three marching bands. This includes the Gouverneur Marching Wildcats, the Indian River Marching Warriors, and the Copenhagen Marching Knights. As faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall, the Gouverneur Marching Wildcats will premiere their 2023 Show, “Groovy Gouvy,” which includes “That's The Way I Like It,” “Low Rider,” and “Funkytown.” All North Country residents are encouraged to check out the local marching bands as they start their season.

The Gouverneur Lions Club will hold their Pick a Duck fundraiser in the Gouverneur Village Park on Saturday. The drawing will be held following the Flag Day Parade at 3 p.m. Tickets are being sold by the Gouverneur Lions, and will be available on Saturday. The first place prize of $500 is sponsored by Conklin Insurance. The second place prize is a complete flag pole with set-up sponsored by the LaPierres. The third place prize is $200 sponsored by Precision Contracting. The fourth place prize is a $100 Lottery Tree sponsored by Lawrence Manor. All funds raised will go to support their mission of serve the blind and visually impaired and the greater Gouverneur community.

While enjoying all of the many festivities in the Gouverneur Village Park on Saturday, all North Country residents are urged caution around the Gouverneur Memorial Arch which is scheduled for repair work soon. Much gratitude is extended to the volunteers in the Gouverneur Garden Club for beautifying the Gouverneur Village Park and other areas in the community ahead of Flag Day.

In addition to all of the events in the Gouverneur Village Park, the following events have also been announced:

The Gouverneur Masonic Lodge No. 217 will hold its annual Flag Day Chicken Barbecue fundraiser on Saturday, starting at 1 p.m., at the Gouverneur Masonic Temple, Trinity Ave., Gouverneur.

A craft fair will be held on Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center, 4673 NY-58, Gouverneur, to benefit the Ryan’s Wish Foundation, a nonprofit organization 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 Gouverneur Wrestling Golf Outing will be held on Saturday, 10 a.m. tee-off, at the Emerald Greens’ 18-hole golf course in Gouverneur. All proceeds will benefit Friends of Gouverneur Wrestling. The next Gouverneur Wrestling Club Inc. fundraiser will be a Father’s Day Chicken BBQ on Sunday, June 18, 11 a.m. till gone, at the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035.

All North Country residents are encouraged to join the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce’s Flag Day Parade and Business Extravaganza and the Friends of the Library’s arts In The Park Celebration this Saturday in Gouverneur Village Park, as well as the many other events in and around the Gouverneur community. For more information about Gouverneur’s Flag Day activities, visit www.gouverneurchamber.net.

Gouverneur Memorial Day Observance to be held Monday

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Memorial Day observance will be held on Monday, May 29, 10 a.m. in Gouverneur. The annual observance is jointly hosted by the James Maloy American Legion Post 65 in Gouverneur and the Silas Wainwright VFW Post 6338 in Gouverneur. The public is invited and encourage to attend to help pay tribute to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

The Gouverneur Memorial Day Parade is scheduled to start at 10 a.m. sharp. As is tradition, the parade will line-up on Rock Island St. (in front of Dunkin’) in Gouverneur, starting at 9:30 a.m. All marching bands, marching units, local clubs, local businesses and civic organizations are welcome to participate in the parade. American Legion Post 65 Commander Jason Carvel told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that he has received confirmation that the Gouverneur Wildcat Marching Band, Civil Air Patrol, Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce, Gouverneur Rescue Squad, Gouverneur Fire Department, local dignitaries, among others will be participating in the Memorial Day Parade. Coffee and donuts will be available for all parade participants starting at 8 a.m. at the James Maloy American Legion Post 65, 163 E. Main St., Gouverneur.

The Gouverneur Memorial Day Parade will start at 10 a.m. sharp, turning right onto East Main St. (Route 11) in Gouverneur and traveling past the Gouverneur Village Park, over the West Main Street (Route 11) bridge over the Oswegatchie River where the U.S. Navy Remembrance will be the conducted. The parade will then turn left on Hailesboro St. to the Riverside Cemetery where the Gouverneur Memorial Day ceremony will be held.

American Legion Commander Jason Carvel confirmed to the Gouverneur Tribune Press that the guest speaker will be Command Sergeant Major (CSM) Joseph Grimsey of the 91st Military Police Battalion, Fort Drum, NY. The Civil Air Patrol will escort the special guests during the presentation of ribbons.

Following the Gouverneur Memorial Day observance at Riverside Cemetery, all North Country community members and visitors in attendance will be invited to the James Maloy American Legion Post 65 for a free luncheon.

For more information about the Gouverneur Memorial Day observance, call American Legion Commander Jason Carvel at 315-877-2411.

Hydrant flushing notice

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 am to 3:00 pm Wednesday, May 24, 2023 and then again from 6:00 am to 3:00 pm on Thursday, May 25, 2023. 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. If you have any further questions, you can contact the Department of Public Works at 287-0110.