Town of Fowler questions county’s bridge priorities

by Rachel Hunter

The Town of Fowler Council at its January 7 regular town board meeting talked about the St. Lawrence County Board of Legislators recent vote for the temporary replacement of the historic twin bridges on Jones Road that cross the west branch of the St. Regis River in Hopkinton.

Deterioration to the trusses of the historic structures (originally built in 1902) caused them to be flagged by the New York State Department of Transportation and were subsequently closed by the St. Lawrence County Department of Highways in September 2019.

At the December 2019 full board meeting, SLC Legislators voted to sign a contract with Delta Engineers, Architects, and Land Surveyors, DPC, and the state Historical Preservation Office will play a vital role in project approval with the engineering fee not to exceed $60,000.

Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that it was in 2016 that St. Lawrence County legislator agreed to “close indefinitely” the Emeryville Bridge, County Route 22, in the Town of Fowler, after it was red-flagged by the New York State Department of Transportation for structural deficiencies.

Town of Fowler Then-Supervisor Michael Cappellino and Town of Fowler Supervisor-Elect Rick Newvine arrived at the December full board meeting to ask the St. Lawrence County Board of Legislators why the Hopkinton bridges had been prioritized over the Emeryville Bridge in the Town of Fowler.

The discussion commenced as follows: “We’re not opposed to having (Hopkinton) bridges replaced,” Supervisor Cappellino said. “We’re actually looking forward to the precedence, but one of the concerns is that we have been without a bridge for a number of years now and we have been taken by surprise here that a snowmobile bridge is going to be replaced, actually two bridges are going to be replaced, instead of one 40-foot bridge in the Town of Fowler.

“The vehicle count on the Emeryville Road that was done just recently is 193 cars. Those cars have been isolated from traveling to Tripp’s, several garage and repair shops in the Town of Fowler… (The Emeryville Bridge) has been closed about three years, and there haven’t been any grounds made to replace that bridge. That’s why we are here tonight. It just seems like a seasonal limited-use road is not really a priority. We were told Emeryville Bridge was not a priority, and now we are looking at a seasonal, limited-use bridge that is being prioritized before this bridge.

“Again, the county installed a temporary bridge in Emeryville in repairing another bridge, they put a temporary bridge on the bridge and then pulled in right out as soon as it was complete.

“I asked Don at one point if the County could leave that for snowmobile traffic, four-wheeler traffic, or light-duty cars, and we were told, “Absolutely not. That’s coming out of there.” Almost immediately.

“Again, I think the Town of Fowler at that time had offered to enter negotiations with the County to pony up for $50,000 toward replacement of the bridge. The estimated cost of the bridge was $100,000 to $125,000. For some reason, that was turned down. I am not sure if politics played a part in this. We all know the county sued the town a few years ago for ownership and the county ended up losing that suit. The state found in Supreme Court, that the county owned that bridge and I have questioned since then, is that why we’re not replacing this bridge?”

Legislative Chairman Joseph Lightfoot (R-Ogdensburg) immediately asked: “Are you asking me that question? “The answer is no. Just so we are loud and clear about that.”

Then-Supervisor Cappellino continued his address as follows: “Once again, I’m not opposed to this bridge being replaced, because it does help county residents,” Supervisor Capellino said. “I’m just asking for some fairness for the people in the Town of Fowler.”

It was at the Tuesday, January 7 meeting of the Town of Fowler Council that Town of Fowler Councilman Jeff Andrews asked St. Lawrence County District 5 Legislator Henry Leader (R-Gouverneur) about the St. Lawrence County Board of Legislators voting to spend $135,000 to build the bridges. It has been reported that the St. Lawrence County Department of Highways’ Multi-Use Trail Project covered the cost of construction, and that the contract was awarded to J.E. Sheehan Contracting Corporation.

St. Lawrence County District 5 Legislator Henry Leader (R-Gouverneur) responded as follows: “I voted for us. Mike and Rick came, and I was ready to jump in because it didn’t look like they were going to get a platform to speak and they did speak. The reason I finally voted for the bridge was because of the argument that it was going to help the economy, tourism… I don’t know what businesses they say would be benefited. I don’t know. But I absolutely agree that if you are going to spend that much money for a temporary bridge, you’d have to remove the bridge. It could have been a lot better with Fowler for a lot cheaper. And Fowler is willing to be a partner with them. And honestly, I like (SLC Legislator Kevin Acres’) argument that it is a precedent, because it is a precedent… and if I am given the opportunity, I am still going to advocate for Fowler on that.”

Councilman Andrews said, “They spent the money basically on a snowmobile… and they won’t spend it for a year-round (bridge).”

“And they did it in a hurry,” said Town of Fowler Supervisor Rick Newvine.

“Mike said we don’t want to see anyone else harmed, and we want to see the county prosper, but it is not really fair based on how we were treated – and I absolutely agree with that,” Legislator Leader said.

Discussion continued for several moments before Legislator Leader then said the following: “I technically represent Gouverneur, but I am absolutely loyal to Fowler as well.

“I appreciate you doing that Henry, but I feel like, as far as I am concerned, we haven’t seen our legislator at one meeting,” Town of Fowler Councilman Lynn Bishop said, referring to SLC District 4 Legislator William Sheridan (R-Hammond).

Town of Fowler Supervisor Rick Newvine said, “I called today and left a message, but…”

Legislator Leader said, “In my experience, if it helps the County and it helps this part of the County, good. I don’t have any ego. I don’t want to make any enemies here necessarily, because we might get the chance and need the votes for us. I know everybody is worried about money, and that’s the whole sales tax thing that the state is pushing on the county. But honestly, the county should probably bear it more than the towns and the villages. Every penny counts when you try to put the local budget together… If anything, just think of it as having two representatives. I don’t mind being called for anything.”

“Okay, I appreciate it,” Councilman Andrews said to Legislator Leader as the discussion ended and the Town of Fowler Council continued with the business at hand.

The next meeting of the Town of Fowler Council is to be held on Tuesday, February 4, 7 p.m., Fowler Town Hall, 87 Little York Road, Fowler.

Ed. Note: As of press time this week, the replacement bridges on Jones Road in Hopkinton are now open for recreation use only.

Town of Gouverneur to install fire alarm system, Knox Box system at town barn

by Rachel Hunter

The Town of Gouverneur Council at its Jan. 14 meeting agreed to install a fire alarm system and Knox Box system at town barn and offices building, 1227, US Highway 11, Gouverneur.

Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr. said the following: “(Town of Gouverneur Deputy Supervisor Eldon Conklin) and I met with our insurance representative two weeks ago, and one of the suggestions he stressed was a fire alarm system for our building. There’s been quite a few, well, I think four municipalities I think he said that have had total losses.”

Town of Gouverneur Highway Superintendent Ed Cardinell took the opportunity to inform Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr. and the Town of Gouverneur Council who had not yet heard of the losses the Village of Theresa had suffered after its public works garage, village office went ablaze shortly before noon Tuesday. “That’s almost a brand new building,” Supervisor Spilman said.

The cause is still under investigation.

Supervisor Spilman reminded the Town of Gouverneur Council that the insurance representative suggested the move last year as well, and that the Town of Gouverneur received quotes, but never acted on it.

Supervisor Spilman said they had reached out to Alltech Integration Systems, Stat Communications, and NCC Systems Inc. who plan to give quotes to the Town of Gouverneur. “One has given us a quote already – it is coming in at about $11,200,” Supervisor Spilman said. “What we would like to do tonight is to get a motion to authorize us to purchase fire alarm system not to exceed $15,000 that way once we get the quotes in we won’t have to wait to get things going on it. Ed has been going through everything that has a battery attached to it in the shop; it is now getting a master disconnect switch put on it… I couldn’t imagine, especially since we have so many things under one roof, if we had a loss here…it would be catastrophic.”

The motion to authorize the purchase of the alarm system not to exceed $15,000 was made by Town of Gouverneur Councilman Curran Wade, and seconded by Town of Gouverneur Councilwoman Jaimee McQuade. All were in favor. The decision was unanimous,

The decision was also made during the meeting to install a Knox Box system at the building. Supervisor Spilman explained to the town board that it would allow the fire department “the opportunity to come to the building and punch a code in a box a have a code waiting for them and be able to access the building if nobody is around.”

“I think it is a good idea,” he said. (By) having a Knox Box on the building for (Chief Conklin) and the guys to get in… they don’t have to go out to the building, get a key. I know they have a key to the Community Center and at our meeting tomorrow I am going to bring up a suggestion that we purchase one of these Knox Boxes where the first responders come directly to the building to get in.”

In addition, Supervisor Spilman said the following: (Town of Gouverneur Deputy Supervisor Eldon Conklin) brought it up. At the Town Court, we never had a loss policy down there. We added $150,000 worth of value to the policy for an $160 per year. It’s pretty minimal, but just the cost it would take to recreate the files down there would astronomical.”

There was some discussion before the town board continued with the business at hand.

The next regular meeting of the Town of Gouverneur Council is to be held on Tuesday, February 11, 6 p.m. at the town offices building.

Lights on the River to benefit local food pantries

by Rachel Hunter

More than 100 boxes of non-perishable food items and close to $30,000 will be split between 16 food pantries in St. Lawrence Counties, as a result of Lisbon’s Lights on the River event.

The local food pantries set to benefit include the Gouverneur Neighborhood Center, Hammond Neighborhood Center, and the Richville Food Pantry.

There were about 70 displays from area businesses, organizations, etc. at the 10th annual event.

Walk With A Doc to be at Gouverneur Middle School on January 25

by Rachel Hunter

Walk With A Doc: Gouverneur will be held on Saturday, January 25, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., Gouverneur Middle School, 25 Wilson Street, Gouverneur.

Did you know? 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. Healthy snacks, coffee, and blood pressure checks are an optional part of a Walk with a Doc event. The Walk added an Executive Director in 2009 and focused 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 recently 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. Will you join in making health and happiness accessible for all?

The next event Walk With A Doc in Gouverneur is to be held on Saturday, January 25, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., at Gouverneur Middle School, 25 Wilson Street, Gouverneur.

With an aim to make hope and health accessible to all, the Community Health Center of the North Country and St. Lawrence County Public Health are sponsoring this free, fun walk. All those interested in attending are invited to join a variety of St. Lawrence County healthcare providers and discover a new, safe place to walk, learn about health, and meet new friends.

This is event is open to all, and is for all abilities. The Gouverneur Middle School is accessible for all walkers, strollers and wheelchairs. There is no registration required, and all are welcome to attend.

Don’t let the winter weather keep you from getting in some steps. Mark your calendar today for the Walk With A Doc: Gouverneur on Saturday, January 25 at Gouverneur Middle School for a warm and dry event inside the school building.

GHS Chorus lauded by town supervisor for carol singing at GCC

by Rachel Hunter

Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr. told the Town of Gouverneur Council at its Dec. 10 meeting lauded the Gouverneur High School Chorus, conducted by Renee Powlin, which sang Christmas carols to over 85 people at the Gouverneur Community Center earlier that day.

The Gouverneur High School Chorus includes the following students: Soprano: Madison Brooks, Corryn Canell, Makayla Cassell-Beck, Allison Carvel, Sarah Crook, Saraphenna Filiatrault, Kortney Knight, Hope Leader, Chelsea Manning, Jenika Richards, Shaylee Smith, Abigail Way, and Ariana Zeller. Alto: Hannah Bango, Haley Blair, Hailey Bodah, Makayla Brooks, Niciara House-Bowman, Corinne LaPierre, Mariah Manning, Camila Marquez, Mikayla McNeil, Ariel Mooney, Emily Mullin, Gabrielle Platt, Elizabeth Riutta, Jahonna Sloan, and Jaelynn Stevens. Tenor: Jacob Carvel, Shacoria Jackson, Makyle Pankey, Cole Siebels, Brett VanSant, Kaleb Webster, and Marina Wood. Baritone/Bass: Noble Baker, Connor Canell, Hazen Given, Richard Nichols, Jr., Christopher Weaver, and Kolby Wells.

Much applause was given to the students throughout the concert by those in attendance. The crowd consisted of those enjoying meals at the Gouverneur Congregate Dining Center as well as members of the Gouverneur Senior Citizens Club and the Shakespeare Club.

“They did a wonderful job. It’s always a big treat to have them there, and really appreciate working with Gouverneur High School Principal Cory Wood and Gouverneur Central School District Superintendent of Schools Lauren French to make it available for these kids to come over and then perform for us. It made the day kind of special.”

The next meeting of the Town of Gouverneur Council is to be held on Tuesday, January 14, 6 p.m., in the town offices building.

Town of Gouverneur posts speed limit signs on Little Bow, Van Buren roads

By Rachel Hunter

Town of Gouverneur Highway Department workers on Tuesday, December 10 put 55 MPH speed limit signs on the Little Bow Road and Van Buren Road in hopes to curb speeding on town roads.

“We’ve had complaints from taxpayers about the speed at which cars are traveling down those roads,” Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr. said during the Dec. 10 town board meeting.

“I contacted (SLC Superintendent of Highways Donald Chambers) about the process of lowering the speed limit, and this is the first step. We actually have to post them at 55 MPH. That was the speed limit already. But now we put signs up, and the next thing is to do a study on it and that could take up to 18 months to get any action there. But this was a first step…

“The hard part is getting action from the state. We call the county and they do what they have to do. That’s a pretty simple process. That about a couple weeks. And then, if they deem it is feasible or necessary, they pass it along to the state and then the state takes it into consideration.

“Mr. Chambers told me that he has had a county road that has been waiting 18 months for a determination on it. If anybody has a question on why we posted the speed limit, just call me. That’s the easiest way. It’s a process, and this is just the first step.

“It all came from a lady down on the Little Bow Road who had this kid in this big truck just keep tearing by her house. Finally, she stood in the middle of the road. He stopped, and she asked, “Why are you going so fast down through here?” He said, “I can go as fast as I want, there is no speed limit.” Well, yes there is. It is 55 MPH but there is no sign to tell him it is 55 MPH. Now, there is.”

The next meeting of the Town of Gouverneur Council is to be held on Tuesday, January 14, 6 p.m., in the town offices building.

2019 Gouverneur Christmas Parade draws crowd

by Rachel Hunter

Santa Claus giving a hug to a local child at the 2019 Gouverneur Christmas Parade as he made his way to the gazebo to greet the Gouverneur-area children. (Rachel Hunter photos)

Holiday spirit sparked in the Gouverneur community on Friday, December 6 during the 2019 Gouverneur Christmas Parade, sponsored annually by the Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce.

The highlight of the event was the arrival of Santa Claus direct from the North Pole for the occasion. He jumped off his sleigh at the Gouverneur Fire Department and jumped atop one of the fire engines at about 5 p.m. in preparation to greet all the local children in the Gouverneur-area community.

Parade participants formed in the municipal parking lot by Aubuchon Hardware, and the Gouverneur residents lined Main Street in anticipation of the grand event. As soon as traffic control measures were taken by the Gouverneur Police Department, the parade commenced down its route, each entry being announced by Chamber Director Gale Ferguson. The parade was escorted down Main Street by Village of Gouverneur Chief of Police Laurina Greenhill in a Gouverneur Police Department apparatus.

Local dignitaries joining the parade were Town of Gouverneur Deputy Supervisor Eldon Conklin, Village of Gouverneur Trustee Troy Besaw, Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ronald McDougall, and Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr.

Next up was the Village of Gouverneur Department of Public Works truck, which had decorated in festive holiday lights, ornamental inflatable yard decorations and other Christmas décor in addition to Gouverneur Wildcat flags. The Village of Gouverneur DPW received the Best Holiday Float Award, receiving the $50 Award. The Chamber also expressed that the Village of Gouverneur DPW did a great job once again decorating and getting the village park ready for the annual Christmas parade. The driver was Village of Gouverneur Motor Equipment Operator Chris Fitzgerald with his daughter, Hadley Fitzgerald, as passenger.

“Merry Christmas” greetings were wished by students and staff at St. James School who entered a live nativity float.

“Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year” wishes were extended from Nick Ciambra of the New York Pizzeria in Gouverneur.

Next up were scouts and leaders with the Gouverneur Cub Scout Pack 21, sponsored by the First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur. Also in the parade were Gouverneur Cub Scout Pack 2035, led by Cubmaster Chris Gates, in a festively decorated float complete with a reindeer and lit Christmas yard ornaments.

A hay wagon filled with many Gouverneur Elementary School students was driven down the parade route by Jay Rizza. The children excitedly waved as the anticipation built in the moments leading up to Santa Claus’ arrival.

Marching on foot were Cadette/Senior Girl Scout Troop 50340 with co-leaders Sandy McDougall and Kristy McDougall.

The Gouverneur Dunkin’ Donuts store wished everyone in the community “Merry Christmas” as the Dunkin’ mascot joined the Christmas parade in Gouverneur.

Also participating in the parade on a float supporting “Team Ollie” were the Marble City Bombers Travel Softball Teams 16U, 14U, 12U, and 10U.

The Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Association brought a float that advertised the 2020 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair and the opening night performance by Lonestar on Tuesday, August 4, 8 p.m. All were encouraged to check out Lonestar’s Christmas music this holiday season. For more ticket info, visit gouverneurfair.net.

The Gouverneur Teachers Association marched a brought a special “Elves on the Shelf” themed float, which featured New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) Vice President Paul Pecorale and Amber Ormasen as the elves.

Gouverneur Savings and Loan Association marched and brought their mascot, Benjamin, to the 2019 Gouverneur Christmas Parade. The Gouverneur Savings and Loan Association has full branches in Gouverneur, Alexandria Bay and a lending office in Lowville.

Also participating were the Gouverneur Wildcat Girls Basketball Program with players from the modified, JV, and Varsity Girls Basketball team, coached by JV coach Rick Vrooman and Head Varsity Coach Sean Devlin.

The Town of Gouverneur Highway Department truck pulled a float that carried the 2019 Gouverneur Wildcat Varsity Football Team, who had the honor of being four-time Section 10 Champions and became NYS Class C Championship finalists, and also the Gouverneur Mini-Cats. The float was decorated in Gouverneur Wildcat flags and banners and Christmas décor that inspired awe.

“Merry Christmas” wishes from Bango Hollow Farm of Theresa were issued as parade onlookers watched Cathy Dane of Gouverneur drive the team of “Dean” and “Pixie” down the parade route.

Empire State Mines then joined parade with their enthusiastic Christmas miners, eager to wave hello to all the parade attendees.

The Happy Helpers 4-H Club marched down the parade route, and wished the Gouverneur community a “Merry Christmas.”

Tim and Cindy Bango of Bango Valley Percherons in Richville brought the Gouverneur Pee Wee Major and Minor Football team in a wagon pulled by their team of draft horses.

“Merry Christmas” wishes were issued from Team Blevins, and all in attendance were encouraged to stop by their new location.

The parade also included the musical stylings of the Gouverneur Central band, led by Ms. Jenelle Yeoman, which brought holiday cheer for all to hear.

The parade culminated with fire trucks from local departments. Richville Fire Department brought ETA 10. Oxbow Fire Department brought Oxbow 33-1-2, driven by Allen Aldridge with passengers Mike Manning, Kelsey Denicola, Ally Aldridge, and Curtis Denicola. Gouverneur Fire Department brought Engine-17, driven by Vinny Ferry, and Truck 2, driven Barry Gale. But, the biggest draw was the Rescue-4 truck, driven by GFD Chief Tom Conklin, which carried Santa Claus, who waved to all the local children as the fire truck made its way down the parade route.

At the culmination the parade, Santa Claus made his way to the gazebo where he heard the children’s wishes. Hot cocoa and cookies were available at the First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur, having been made available by the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce. There also were horse-drawn wagon rides around the Gouverneur Savings and Loan Association that were made available to local residents, due to the generosity of MacFadden-Dier Leonard Insurance.

All those in attendance were also encouraged to head over to the Gouverneur Community Center for the 8:30 p.m. free showing of “The Grinch.”

Much gratitude is extended to all those who participated in the 2019 Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce sponsored Christmas Parade! Check this week’s calendar listings for more upcoming holiday events.

Local dignitaries participating in the 2019 Gouverneur Christmas Parade, sponsored by the Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce. From left: Town of Gouverneur Deputy Supervisor Eldon Conklin, Village of Gouverneur Trustee Troy Besaw, Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ronald McDougall, and Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr.

Village of Gouverneur Department of Public Works festively adorned its truck for the 2019 Gouverneur Christmas Parade, sponsored by the Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce. The truck was driven by Chris Fitzgerald, and the passenger is his daughter, Hadley Fitzgerald. The Village of Gouverneur DPW won the $50 award for the best float. (Rachel Hunter photos)

Members of the GCS band and family, led by Ms. Jenelle Yeoman, bringing some holiday cheer for all to hear.

Gouverneur Teachers Association “Elves on the Shelf” themed float featured a special guest elf, New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) Vice President Paul Pecorale. Also on the float, but not pictured: Gouverneur’s own Amber Ormasen. (Rachel Hunter photos)

Fear The G! Gouverneur Wildcat Football players on a festive float, pulled by a Town of Gouverneur Highway Department truck during the 2019 Gouverneur Christmas Parade.

Village board changes monthly meeting time

by Rachel Hunter

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees at its annual meeting on Monday, December 2 approved a time change for its monthly board meetings.

The meetings will now be held on the third Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m.

If a meeting falls on a legal holiday, an alternate date will be established.

The 2020 annual meeting will also be held at 6 p.m. on the first Monday in December.

The motion was made by Village Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn, and seconded by Village Trustee Rick Wood. All those in attendance were in favor.

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees held its annual meeting on Monday, December 2 with Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall, Village of Gouverneur Trustee Rick Wood, Village of Gouverneur Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn, Village of Gouverneur Clerk/Treasurer Barbara Finnie, Village of Gouverneur Deputy Clerk/Treasurer Kristina Ayen, and “Mr. Gouverneur” Joe Wing in attendance. The meeting opened with pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence was observed.

Village of Gouverneur Clerk/Treasurer Barbara Finnie administered the Oath of Office to newly elected officials, Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ronald McDougall, Village of Gouverneur Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn, and Village of Gouverneur Trustee Rick Wood. Mayor McDougall then designated his deputy mayor to be Charles Newvine. The mayor, deputy mayor and deputy are authorized to sign checks and to deposit and withdraw village monies in the absence of the treasurer or as otherwise required. The motion was made by Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn, seconded by Trustee Rick Wood and carried.

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees then approved the following: Henry J. Leader to be reappointed to act as Village Attorney for the Village on a fee basis for a term to expire December 7, 2020. Joseph Laurenza to be reappointed Village Historian on a contractual basis for a term to expire December 7, 2020. Barbara A. Finnie to be reappointed as Clerk/Treasurer for a term to expire December 6, 2021. Kristina L. Ayen to be reappointed Deputy Clerk/Treasurer for a term to expire December 6, 2021. Rachel Wainwright to be reappointed Tax Collector/Keyboard Specialist for a term to expire December 6, 2021. The motion for approval was made by Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn, second by Trustee Rick Wood and carried.

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees then approved a resolution for payment in advance of audit of claims for public utility services, postage, freight and express charges, debt service, health insurance and all such claims presented at the next regular meeting for audit, and the claimant and officer incurring or approving the same shall severally liable for any amount disallowed by the Board of Trustees. This will take effect immediately. The motion was made by Trustee Rick Wood, seconded by Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn, and carried.

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees also has determined to pay a fixed rate (current approved IRS/State rate) for mileage as reimbursement to officers and employees of the Village who use their personal automobiles while performing their official duties on behalf of the Village. This shall take effect immediately. The motion was made by Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn, seconded by Trustee Rick Wood, and carried.

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees, acting in accordance with Section 89, Par. 20 of the Village Law, designated the Community Bank, N.A. and the Cooperative Liquid Assets Securities System – New York (CLASS) as the official depositories of the Village of Gouverneur. The treasurer and deputy treasurer is directed and required to deposit and keep the Village funds in said banks, in accordance with the resolution dated July 18, 1983. The motion was made by Trustee Rick Wood, seconded by Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn, and carried.

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees also authorized officials and employees to attend meetings, conference or schools as benefits the municipality. The mayor, village clerk/treasurer, and deputy clerk/treasurer was authorized to attend the New York State Conference of Mayors Annual Meeting and Training School, New York State Conference of Mayors Fall Legislative Meeting, New York State Conference of Mayors Winter Legislative Meeting, St. Lawrence County Mayors Association Quarterly Meetings, NYS Managers Association Conference, NYS Conference of Mayors and Fall Training School for Fiscal Officers and Municipal Clerks, St. Lawrence County Clerk/Treasurer Association Quarterly Meetings, and St. Lawrence County Mayors Association Quarterly Meetings. The superintendent of public works was authorized to attend the New York State Conference of Mayors Annual Public Works Training School, Annual Highway Superintendent School, Superintendent Monthly Meeting in Canton. The youth director was authorized to attend the NYS Youth Bureau Annual Conference, Monthly St. Lawrence County Youth Bureau Meetings. Water filtration plant officers were authorized to attend the Central NY Rural Waterworks Conference. Certified Sewer Plant Operators were authorized to attend Operator Recertification Training Sessions. This will take effect immediately. The motion was made by Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn, seconded by Trustee Rick Wood, and carried.

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees designated the Gouverneur Tribune Press as the official newspaper of the Village of Gouverneur with the understanding that the Village of Gouverneur reserves the right to use the Watertown Daily Times for items such as public notices that may require immediate release. If there is a resolution or motion establishing these items for immediate release said resolution or motion shall contain the name of the paper in which the notice is to appear. The motion was made by Trustee Rick Wood, seconded by Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn, and carried.

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees also adopted a resolution for the establishment of a Youth Commission. The motion was made by Trustee Rick Wood, seconded by Shelly Simons-Washburn, and carried. There were three votes in favor, and no nays.

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees then approved Mayor McDougall's appointment of the following members to the Youth Commission, with terms expiring December 7, 2020: Casey Canell, Stanley Young, Kristina Ayen, Rick Wood, Robert Ritchie, and Eldon Conklin. The motion was made by Trustee Shelly Simons-Washurn, seconded by Trustee Rick Wood, and carried.

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees then approved Mayor McDougall's appointment of the following members to the Boardof Ethics Committee with terms expiring December 7, 2020: Ronald McDougall, Laurina Greenhill, and Eldon Conklin. The motion was made by Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn, seconded by Trustee Rick Wood, and carried.

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees approved that the Gouverneur Zoning Board of Appeals will hold regular meetings in the municipal courtroom on the second Thursday of every month at 6 p.m. Special meetings, other than the Zoning Board's regularly scheduled meeting, will be published in the Village's official newspaper. Members include: Joseph Codner (Charles Halpin unexpired term, 2017-2022), Gary Hughes (2019-2024), Russ Currier (2018-2023), and Michael McDonald (2018-2023). There is a vacant seat on the zoning board, the unexpired term of Karl Bender (2017-2022). The motion was made by Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn, seconded by Trustee Rick Wood, and carried.

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees approved that the Gouverneur Planning Board will hold regular meetings in the municipal courtroom on the second Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Special meetings, other than the Planning Board's regularly scheduled meeting, will be published in the Village's official newspaper. Members are James Bowhall (2019-2024), Kenneth Nicholas (2016-2021), David Spilman, Jr. (2019-2024), Lance Lamar (2017-2022), and Deanna Hadfield (2019-2024). The motion was made by Trustee Rick Wood, seconded by Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn, and carried.

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees appointed Charles Newvine as the Fair Housing Officer for the Village of Gouverneur for a term to expire December 7, 2020. The motion was made by Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn, seconded by Trustee Rick Wood, and carried.

Mayor McDougall appointed members to the Community Center Board as follows: Mayor (term expiring December 6, 2021), Rick Wood (December 6, 2021), Cynthia Denesha (December 6, 2021), Roxann Finley (December 5, 2022), and Robert Ritchie (December 4, 2020). The appointments were approved by the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees. The motion was made by Trustee Rick Wood, seconded by Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn, and carried.

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees also adopted the procurement policy without any changes from the previous year after its annual review. The motion was made by Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn, seconded by Trustee Rick Wood, and carried.

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees also adopted the procurement policy without any changes from the previous year after its annual review. The motion was made by Trustee Rick Wood, seconded by Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn, and carried.

Village of Gouverneur Clerk/Treasurer Barbara Finnie, Village of Gouverneur Deputy Clerk/Treasurer Kristina Ayen, Village of Gouverneur Trustee Rick Wood, Village of Gouverneur Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn, and Mayor Ronald McDougall with “Mr. Gouverneur” Joe Wing at the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees meeting on Monday, December 2 in the municipal courtroom. (Rachel Hunter photo)

Mayor McDougall then announced that the following Village employees had surpassed milestones in their years of service to the Village of Gouverneur: Jason Whitton – 20 years, John Kelley – 20 years, and Alex Daggett – 5 years.

Mayor McDougall appointed the following trustees to various departments of the village government: Mayor McDougall and Trustee Simons-Washburn (Village Clerks Office), Mayor McDougall, Deputy Mayor Newvine, and Trustee Besaw (Recreation Department), Mayor McDougall and Deputy Mayor Newvine (Department of Public Works, including Water Plant, Sewer Plant, Electric, and Sidewalks), Mayor McDougall and Trustee Wood (Police Department), Mayor McDougall and Trustee Simons-Washburn (representatives of the village board on the Audit Committee), and Mayor McDougall and Trustee Besaw (representatives of the village board on the sharing of government services committee with town board members. The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees approved the aforementioned appointments. The motion was made by Trustee Shelly Simons-Washburn, seconded by Trustee Rick Wood, and carried.

The 2020 Annual Meeting of the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees is to be held on Monday, December 7, 2020 at 6 p.m. in the municipal courtroom.

Local Veterans Day Observance to be held Monday

by Rachel Hunter

The local Veterans Day observance will be held this Monday, November 11, 11 a.m., at the Memorial Arch, in the Gouverneur Village Park. The Gouverneur community is invited to join in paying tribute to the military veterans of this great country. A luncheon will follow at the James Maloy American Legion Post No. 65 at about noon.

Unofficial election results released

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Community Center served as Gouverneur’s polling place during the 2019 General Election. For the first time, voters used a stylus to sign their name on an electronic pollbook before casting their ballots. Pictured, voter waits to receive a ballot. (Curran Wade photo)

The unofficial election results came in after the polls closed at 9 p.m., and were released as follows by the St. Lawrence County Board of Elections:

In the contest for Village of Gouverneur Mayor, incumbent Ronald P. McDougall pulled away with the lead, receiving a total of 266 votes (125 Democratic, 141 Republican) over People’s Choice Candidate George Harder, who received 215 votes.

Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall (right) stands with Village of Gouverneur Trustees (from left) Rick Wood and Shelly Simons-Washburn at the campaign watch party, held at the Casablanca Restaurant in Gouverneur on Tuesday, November 5. All sought re-election to their current elected seats. (photo provided)

The contested race for two trustees to fill seats on the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees, the top vote-getter was incumbent Shelly Simons-Washburn with 375 votes (168 Democratic, 207 Republican), followed by incumbent Richard J. “Rick” Wood with 360 votes (157 Democratic, 203 Republican), and People’s Choice Candidate Scott Hudson with 165 votes. There were two write-in votes.

In the Town of Gouverneur, voters re-elected David L. Spilman, Jr. as Town of Gouverneur Supervisor. As the sole candidate, he received 625 votes (231 Democratic, 394 Republican). Voters also re-elected Stanley H. Young, Jr. as Town Justice with 629 votes (224 Democratic, 405 Republican). In the contested election for two councilpersons to fill seats on the Gouverneur Town Council, the top vote-getter was Jay L. Bowhall with 596 votes (225 Democratic, 371 Republican votes), followed by incumbent Jaimee McQuade with 485 votes (194 Democratic, 291 Republican), and Steven Jackson with 171 votes. There was one write-in vote cast.

Town of Gouverneur Supervisor David Spilman, Jr. stands with Town of Gouverneur Councilwoman Jaimee McQuade at the campaign watch party on Tuesday, November 5 at the Casablanca Restaurant in Gouverneur. Both sought re-election to their current elected seats in the 2019 General Election. (photo provided)

In the Town of Fowler, voters elected Ricky W. Newvine as the new Town of Fowler Supervisor. The sole candidate, he received 314 votes (96 Democratic, 218 Republican). In the contested election for Fowler Town Clerk, Tami L. Gale (currently appointed to the position) received the most votes (283) over Democratic challenger Melissa M. Tuttle (64 votes).

Randy Durham was re-elected to the position of the Town of Fowler Highway Superintendent with 290 votes (89 Democratic, 188 Republican, 13 Conservative). There also were two write-in votes cast. Voters also elected Phyllis M. Shaw (151 votes) and Kathleen M. Besaw (269 votes) to the two open assessor positions. As well, voters elected Jeffery A. Andrews (280 votes) and Karen M. Simmons (275 votes) to the open Town of Fowler Council seats.

In the Town of DeKalb, voters re-elected John M. Frary as Town of DeKalb Supervisor with 314 votes (135 Democratic, 179 Republican), and Barbara Creazzo as Town of DeKalb Clerk with 264 votes. Town of DeKalb voters elected Wayne Holland as the new Town of DeKalb Highway Superintendent with 285 votes (255 Democratic, 30 DIR). In the contested election to fill two seats on the Town of DeKalb Council, the top vote-getter was political newcomer Andrew Fenton with 246 votes (210 Democratic, 36 NEW), followed by Constance J. Elen with 194 votes (160 Republican, 22 Conservative, 12 Independent), and incumbent Rae Ann Davis with 165 votes on the Democratic line.

In the Town of Clifton, voters elected John G. Dragun as Clifton Town Justice with 112 votes (56 Republican, 56 Democratic). There were two write-in votes. In the uncontested race for the two seats on the Town of Clifton Council, John Russell received the most votes (100), followed by Julia Lanphear (94 votes). There were also four write-in votes.

In the Town of DePeyster, Brian Hicks was the top vote-getter for Town of DePeyster Justice. There were 39 write-in votes cast. In the uncontested election to fill two seats on the Town of DePeyster Council, Daniel Chamber was the top vote-getter with 103 votes (22 Democratic, 81 Republican), followed by Leslie Hargrave with 86 votes on the Republican line. There were seven write-in votes cast.

In the Town of Edwards, Frederick J. Finley was re-elected as Town of Edwards Justice with 96 votes (77 Democratic, 19 Open Government). Michele D. Robillard (102 votes) and Jeffery D. Shippee (87 votes) were re-elected to their seats on the Town of Edwards Council.

In the Town of Fine, voters cast their ballots to fill two empty seats on the Town of Fine Council. The top vote-getter was Carlton Cheyenne Kerr (149 votes), followed by Jeremy E. Thompson (133 votes). There were also eight write-in votes cast.

In the Town of Hammond, voters cast their ballots for Theodore P. Elk (138 votes) and James C. Pitcher (161 votes) to fill two seats on the Town of Hammond Council.

In the Town of Hermon, Michael J. Perry, Sr. was elected Town of Hermon Supervisor with 201 votes on the Democratic line. In the contested race for Town of Hermon Clerk, Karen A. Wayering received the most votes (186; 181 Republican, 5 GRA) over Democratic challenger Jessica M. Love with 94 votes (90 Democratic, 4 SUN). The contested election for Town of Hermon Highway Superintendent, there was a tie. Robert E. Reed (DEM, FUL) and Brian Brunet (REP, CON) both received 145 votes. In the contested race for Hermon Town Justice, the top vote-getter was Heather Robinson Boyce with 139 votes on the Democratic line over Chris Valez with 136 votes on the Republican line. In the uncontested race to fill the two seats on the Town of Hermon Council, voters cast their ballots for Bernard F. Reed, Jr. (178 votes) and John Reed (177 votes).

In the Town of Macomb, voters elected Steve Burke as the Town of Macomb Supervisor with 153 votes (106 Democratic, 47 Independent). There was one write-in vote cast. In the uncontested race for Town of Macomb Clerk, incumbent Jessyca Cardinell was re-elected to the position with 190 votes on the Republican line. There were three write-in votes cast. In the contested race for Town of Macomb Highway Superintendent, the top vote-getter was Bill Law with 137 votes (132 Republican, 5 BET), followed by John Simmons with 59 votes (50 Democratic, 9 Independent), Donald L. Bayne, Jr. (29 votes), and Aaron Cardinell (12 votes). There also were four write-in votes cast. In the contested race for the two open Town of Macomb Council seats, the top vote-getter was Richard L. Youngs (153 votes), followed by Bret Martin (134 votes), and Shawn Clark (109 votes).

In the Town of Morristown, James T. Phillips, Jr. pulled ahead in the contested election for Morristown Town Justice with 227 votes (174 Republican, 28 Conservative, 25 Independent) over Arik G. Turner who received 221 votes. There was also one write-in vote. In the race to fill two seats on the Town of Morristown Council, the top vote-getters were Republican candidates David VanArnam (324 votes) and Gary B. Turner (279 votes), over Conservative candidate Ethyn Moquin (210 votes).

In the Town of Pitcairn, the top vote-getter in the Supervisor race was Clyde W. Sam Frank, Jr. with 106 votes on the Republican line over Democratic challenger Nancy J. McIntosh’s 69 votes. In the uncontested race for Town of Pitcairn Clerk, Rebecca J. Moore received 156 votes on the Republican line. In the contested race for Town of Pitcairn Highway Superintendent, the top vote-getter was Jerry McIntosh with 99 votes on the Democratic line, followed by Rod Moore with 66 votes. Lawrence Evans (98 votes) and Ann M. Hall (103 votes) were elected to fill the two Town of Pitcairn Council seats. In the uncontested race for Pitcairn Town Justice, the sole candidate Rick Bearor received 153 votes on the Republican line.

In the Town of Rossie, Harry E. Turnbull was re-elected as Town of Rossie Supervisor with 68 votes on the Republican line. Lynn A. DeCondo was re-elected as Town of Rossie Clerk with 68 votes on the Republican line. Voters cast their ballots for Alwin H. Fleming for Town of Rossie Superintendent of Highways. There was one write-in vote cast. In the uncontested race for the two open Town of Rossie Council seats, voters cast their ballots for Michael Moroz (42 votes) and James T. Mandigo (44 votes). There were two write-in votes cast.

In the Town of Russell, voters cast their ballots to decide who would become Town of Russell Supervisor. The top vote-getter was Timothy White with 276 votes (234 Republican, 26 Conservative, 16 Independent), followed by Michael Perry with 211 votes (199 Democratic, 12 PRO). Voters re-elected Tess Eells as Town of Russell Clerk with 454 votes (175 Democratic, 279 Republican). In the contested race for Town of Russell Highway Superintendent, Larry White pulled ahead with 279 votes (266 Democratic, 13 PRO), followed by Franklin H. Mackin III with 219 votes (210 Republican, 9 ROA). In the uncontested race to fill two seats for Town of Russell Council, the top vote-getter was Charles Kerr with 373 votes (180 Democratic, 193 Republican), followed by Tomorrah Nezezon Averill with 283 votes (263 Democratic, 20 PRO). There was one write-in vote cast.

In the Village of Rensselaer Falls, voters re-elected Michael Hammond as mayor with 33 votes on the Democratic line. The two seats on the Village of Rensselaer Falls Board of Trustees will be filled by Jolene LaSiege (31 votes) and James Blackburn (29 votes).

St. Lawrence County voters also cast their ballots for a new county clerk. The top vote-getter was Sandy Santamoor, current Deputy County Clerk, with 10,282 votes (8,355 Republican, 1,227 Conservative, 700 Independent) over her Democratic opponent Janet Otto Cassada who received 6,472 votes (5,928 Democratic, 544 WOR).

The sole candidate for St. Lawrence County Sheriff was Brooks J. Bigwarfe, who received 14,014 votes (10,304 Republican, 1,809 Conservative, and 1,901 Independent). He will replace current St. Lawrence County Sheriff Kevin Wells of Gouverneur who is set to retire at the year’s end. There were 47 write-in ballots cast.

St. Lawrence County voters also cast their ballots for four State Supreme Court Justice (4th Judicial District) candidates. The top vote-getter was James E. Walsh with 10,156 votes, followed by Dianne N. Freestone with 9,159 votes, Rebecca A. Slezak with 9,020 votes, Michael R. Cuevas with 8,957 votes, Julie A. Garcia with 7,202 votes, and Michael Violando with 5,787 votes.

These election results are unofficial, and do not include absentee ballots. To see complete results, visit stlawco.org.

Gouverneur community pauses to remember life, legacy of longtime youth advocate

by Rachel Hunter

Looking to the future, Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall encourages Laurie Allen’s grandchildren – Laurie Ruth Allen and Harley Quinn Allen – to stand by the Jane Magnolia tree that was dedicated last Saturday, November 2 in front of the Gouverneur Community Center. (Rachel Hunter photo)

A magnolia tree, planted at the Gouverneur Community Center, was dedicated in memory of Laurie Allen on Saturday, November 2. A crowd of over 25 persons attended the special dedication ceremony. Local dignitaries in attendance included Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ronald McDougall, Village of Gouverneur Clerk/Treasurer Barbara Finnie, Village of Gouverneur Chief of Police Laurina Greenhill, Town of Gouverneur Supervisor David Spilman, Jr. and Town of Gouverneur Deputy Supervisor Eldon Conklin.

The ceremony was a great celebration of the life and legacy of the late Laurie Allen, a longtime youth advocate in the Gouverneur area. Mrs. Allen passed away after battling against cancer on May 14, 2015. It was Dede Scozzafava at the 2015 Gouverneur Breast Cancer Walk who first suggested that something should be done in Laurie's memory, and was joined in the effort by Laurie's friend, Donna Sawyer, and Gouverneur Recreation Director Casey Canell.

Laurie accomplished much in her years as youth advocate, serving as a member of the Gouverneur Recreation Committee and chairperson for the St. Lawrence County Youth Advisory Board. She also volunteered at St. James School for 25 years teaching art, and was responsible for creating the scenery for all the plays and shows.

Mrs. Allen and her son Corey were responsible for starting indoor roller hockey rink at the old Great American store in the former Ames plaza, along with the help of Casey Canell (current Gouverneur Recreation Director) and the Gouverneur Recreation Committee.

She also brought children from the Gouverneur Recreation Center to the family home on California Road to enjoy hiking on the nature trails and summertime barbecues.

Laurie Allen – along with her husband Darrell and their three sons Corey, Jason and Justin – was also instrumental in clearing the land (with the help of equipment from Zinc Corporation of America) for what is now the current Riverview Park in Gouverneur, including the land where the Gouverneur Community Center now is.

The dedication service commenced at about 12 p.m. (noon) in front of the Gouverneur Community Center. All were invited to surround the magnolia tree that was recently planted on the left side of the sidewalk entrance into the community center. Mrs. Sawyer had hung a red ornament the one of the magnolia tree’s branches which drew much attention during the ceremony. The idea came from Casey and Stacey Canell of Gouverneur as the dedication ceremony was being organized. The Jane Magnolia tree offers vibrant pink blooms and a longer season of color, and is in a league of its own when it comes to the Magnolia family. And because it blooms later than most varieties, it’s unaffected by the late spring frosts that cause other Magnolia blooms to fall. The tree will grow to be 10- to 15-feet tall, and 5-10-feet wide. It is a cold hardy variety down to -20 degrees.

At noon, Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ronald McDougall welcomed all those in attendance. “As many people do in this community and throughout Northern New York, (Laurie Allen) battled cancer, and she put up one heck of a fight,” he said. “There’s no question about that. We will never forget her… She touched a lot of lives in this community for a long time through the Recreation Department. We have Riverview Park as an outcome of that.”

A plaque, by Harland Brown of Brown’s Jewelry Store in Gouverneur, was presented and ready by Mayor McDougall as follows: “The Jane Magnolia Tree given in loving memory of Laurie Allen for her many contributions to the Gouverneur Recreation Program on this day, November 2, 2019.”

Mayor McDougall then gave the floor to Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr. to say a few words: “If you folks look left and right, this is what she helped start… It serves thousands of people each year. So, this is wonderful.”

Town of Gouverneur Deputy Supervisor Eldon Conklin then said the following: “I can’t remember her not being there, and involved in the Recreation Committee. Also, when we were having problems getting the Recreation Center set up at the fairgrounds, she was there always.”

“She was always supportive, and definitely a visionary,” Mayor McDougall said.

In the spring of 2020, Supervisor Spilman announced that the plan is to move the magnolia tree to the right of the Gouverneur Community Center sign by State Highway 58 in Gouverneur. “The tree is actually going to be planted by the entrance, because it is going to grow a bit too big for where it is now,” Supervisor Spilman said.

Meanwhile, it will be protected by the Gouverneur Community Center in the winter months.

“If you see the pictures, in a few years it won’t work here… It will be moved out there where more people can see it, but the plaque will be put in a prominent position in the Gouverneur Community Center. Anyone who uses the facility will remember Laurie.”

Laurie Allen’s best friend and co-organizer of the dedication ceremony, Donna Sawyer, then invited the family to say a few words. Much appreciation was extended for all the work that went into organizing the event.

“The Recreation Center, the Recreation Department was very important to Laurie,” Mrs. Sawyer said. “I wasn’t involved in that, but we were best friends. We did a lot together. We raised our kids together. We tore our kitchens apart together. We did a lot of things together – road trips and things of that nature. She epitomized grace and courage, and we miss her.”

Mrs. Sawyer then read a letter from Gouverneur Recreation Director Casey Canell was read as follows: “Today is a day to reflect on the memory of one of the biggest advocates for our Recreation Department… Laurie Allen. Laurie was active in the Gouverneur Youth Commission where she served as president when the Gouverneur Recreation Department was established more than 25 years ago. She served as a liaison and representative for Gouverneur on the St. Lawrence County Youth Bureau Advisory Board for many years. Laurie volunteered countless hours and was instrumental in the development of year-round programming for the Recreation Department.

“Laurie’s presence is greatly missed! She did so many things behind the scene people don’t realize, and she never wanted recognition. However, I find it so appropriate that this tree celebrates her memory for all the beautiful things she did to enrich the lives of our youth throughout the years. In her honor, the tree and memorial plaque will be a reminder of Laurie’s influence and all that she has done for our community.

“Dear Laurie, my friend and confidant… your warm smile, enthusiasm and encouragement are truly missed. We are all more blessed because of your dedication and impact on our community. This moment is for you… Thank you for everything!”

Mrs. Sawyer then told the crowd gathered that it was Laurie Allen who got Director Canell started with the Gouverneur Recreation Department in a part-time capacity years ago. “Casey is just Laurie in that the Gouverneur Recreation Department was so important to Laurie,” she said. “I want to thank everyone for coming today.”

Mayor McDougall then closed the ceremony with the following: “We are remembering the past, but we should look to the future.” Attention was then directed to Laurie’s young grandchildren, Laurie Ruth Allen and Harley Quinn Allen, who paused with the dedication plaque by the magnolia tree. Great applause sounded.

“I don’t know if any of you know how many children pass through the Gouverneur Recreation Center. We get (Director Canell’s) reports every month at the town and the village. Last month, it was 1,600 children in his different programs. The smallest I have ever seen is 800 in a month. That is usually in the summer when he is doing his summer youth program. Just to give you an idea of how far this has gone, and how Laurie helped get this all to happen. It’s wonderful.”

After a few more comments, Mrs. Sawyer said the following: “She was definitely a force to reckoned with when it came to the Recreation Department.”

The ceremony continued for several moments as those gathered remembered the life and legacy of Laurie Allen.

Second Annual Gouverneur Trunk or Treat to be held Oct. 25

by Rachel Hunter

The Second Annual Gouverneur Trunk or Treat, sponsored by the Community Health Center of the North Country and Seaway Valley Prevention Council, in partnership with the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Association and Gouverneur Central School District, will be held on Friday, October 25, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds.

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

This is a free community event, and all are invited to attend.

Seaway Valley Prevention Council and the Community Health Center of the North Country hope that the Gouverneur Trunk or Treat will be a fun, family-friendly way to get the word out about what services are available for people dealing with substance use issues.

The idea originated with the Seaway Valley Prevention Council who in partnership with the Massena Drug-Free Community Coalition held a successful Trunk or Treat at Massena High School in 2017, drawing in hundreds of costumed children. Piggybacking on this rousing success while seeking a fun, engaging way to spread the word in the local community about the services available to those with substance use issues, SVPC and CHCNC thought the best way would be to bring a Trunk or Treat event to Gouverneur in 2018. The inaugural event was a rousing success with hundreds of costumed youth participating.

Recalling the fun, Gouverneur-area families are already anticipating this year's event. The Second Annual Gouverneur Trunk or Treat has been announced at the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees meetings and the Town of Gouverneur Council meetings the past couple months. Town of Gouverneur Supervisor David Spilman, Jr. said he gave out over 1,500 pieces of candy last year, and is hoping to distribute double that number this year. All are encouraged to check out all of the decorated trunks while at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds.

The Second Annual Gouverneur Trunk or Treat is still looking for individuals, community organizations, and businesses to decorate a trunk and hand out treats on Friday, October 25. Organizers also encourage wellness-focused agencies to join, distributing healthy alternatives to candy and other items of interest to the costume youngsters in attendance. As of press time on Tuesday, there were 41 trunks registered. For more info or to register a trunk, call Ray Babowicz of the Community Health Center of the North Country at 315-386-1156 ext. 8311, or call SVPC at (315) 713-4861 or email jbrock@svpc.net.

The Second Annual Gouverneur Trunk or Treat will be handicap accessible, allowing it to be a safe, secure alternative to trick or treating in the local community for people of all abilities. Make plans to join the free, family-friendly fun on October 25, 5:30 to 7:30 at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds.

Gouverneur Fire Department holds open house

by Jessyca Cardinell

The Gouverneur Fire Department hosted its annual open house on the afternoon of Saturday, October 12 at its fire station, located on US Highway 11 in Gouverneur. This event is a great opportunity for people of the community and those surrounding to come and see all that the department has to offer.

The Gouverneur Fire Department has gone above and beyond for many years to ensure that the community of Gouverneur, as well as those surrounding are safe in all kinds of emergencies including accidents and fires.

Everyone was able to come and check out all the extensive equipment the Gouverneur Fire Department has been blessed to obtain through funding and grants.

London Wood, 5, is all smiles of excitement as she gets to take a look around inside one of Gouverneur Fire Department's fire trucks with her family at the annual GFD Open House. (photo by Jessyca Cardinell)

There were interactive demonstrations, including how to properly use a fire extinguisher. Everyone was welcomed to climb inside the big trucks and take a look over everything inside and get the feel for what the inside is like. This was a huge hit with the youngsters attending the event.

The New York State Police had a car and trooper available for questions, and all those in attendance were able to check out the inside of the patrol car.

The St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department was available with one of their patrol vehicles as well as their free service they offer doing ID cards for children. These identification cards help in case a child is ever lost or abducted. They will now be in a system that makes finding them an easier process.

There were a variety of delicious foods to eat, including hearty chili made by Casablanca Restaurant in Gouverneur. Many of the GFD firefighters helped with barbequing foods and serving residents and those attending the event.

Great job Gouverneur Fire Department for putting together this wonderful event for those you serve and protect.

Cats win 54-0; first time under lights

by Dick Sterling

The Gouverneur Wildcat football team has played their home games on the field at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds for generations. There have been plenty of memorable games and players over the years. But last week the Wildcat varsity football team did something that no other team has ever done… they treated their fans to a game under the lights.

Friday Night Lights has become a theme across America. That’s when most high school football teams play their games. Most stadiums now have lights and fancy turf fields. But Frank LaFalce Field, in Gouverneur, has always featured Saturday afternoon contests… that is until last week, when portable lights were brought to town and surrounded the field. Fans poured into the facility… parking spaces were hard to find… the weather cooperated and so did the football team. Gouverneur stretched its regular season winning streak to 27 straight, clinched their fourth straight Northern Athletic Conference title, and improved to 6-0 this season as they pummeled the Massena Red Raiders 54-0.

The Wildcats, currently ranked eighth in the New York State Sportswriters Association Class C poll, took less than 20 seconds to find the scoreboard against the Red Raiders and never looked back, Gouverneur will close out the regular season tomorrow (Saturday) afternoon at Canton. In two weeks, the Cats will host the Section 10 Class C championship game against the winner of next week’s game between Ogdensburg and St. Lawrence Central.

The Wildcats received the opening kickoff and Cayden Stowell fielded the kick just inside his own 20-yard-line and returned the kick 81 yards for a touchdown. The two-point conversion brought the score to 8-0 with just a few seconds erased from the clock.

Moments later the Wildcat defense, which has played outstanding football for the entire season, came up big again as they tackled a Massena player in the end zone for a safety, making the score 10-0. Massena kicked off and sophomore Kyle Savage controlled the kick and returned it 46 yards for another kickoff return touchdown. The conversion attempt failed and with 6:30 to play in the quarter the Cats held a 16-0 advantage.

On their next offensive possession, Mitch Tyler took a handoff from Quarterback Caleb Farr and ran 18 yards to the endzone. The conversion attempt was good and the Cats held a 24-0 advantage at the end of the opening quarter.

Gouverneur scored the only points in the second quarter as Farr scored on a short run. The conversion attempt was good and the Cats held a 32-0 lead at the half.

There was only one score in the third quarter. Joseph Cummings ran one in from 15 yards out with 7:05 to play in the third quarter to make the score 40-0 after another successful two-point conversion.

The Wildcat scored two more touchdowns in the fourth quarter. Savage scored on a 25-yard run and Jared Wilson broke free for a 70-yard touchdown run. Both conversion kicks split the uprights to bring the final scored to 54-0.

Town of Gouverneur keeps tax rate hike under tax cap

by Rachel Hunter

Town of Gouverneur taxpayers will see a slight increase in the tax rate in 2020, according to the tentative town budget. The tax rate will be $3.80 per $1,000 assessed value for property owners in the Town of Gouverneur and $3.10 per $1,000 assessed value for property owners in the Village of Gouverneur. Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr. said that this increase is under the two percent tax cap.

The following tentative budget was released at the Oct. 8 town board meeting.

The $2,216,616 budget calls for $715,079 to be raised by tax. This includes $441,964 (general fund), $212,345 (town highway fund), and $60,770.

The following preliminary 2020 Town of Gouverneur salary schedule was released as well: Supervisor ($10,506), Deputy Supervisor ($550), Bookkeeper ($25,300), Town Councilmen ($13,028 total/$3,257 per councilman), Town Clerk ($32,000), Deputy Town Clerk ($11,700/975 hours at $12 per hour), Town Justices ($40,126 total/$20,063 per town justice), Court Clerk(2) ($58,240/$29,120/ 40-hour week at $14 per hour), Assessor ($15,000), Data Clerk ($4,000), Attorney ($5,000), Cleaning Service ($3,120), Highway Superintendent ($55,725), Historian ($500), Highway Employees ($21.69 per hour), Code Enforcement ($12,190), Code Enforcement – Shared Services ($12,000), Planning/Zoning Secretary ($600), Clerical – Board of Review ($600), Board of Review (5) ($50 per meeting attended), and Dog Control ($9,850 ($5,000 DCO/$4,850 Pound).

The Town of Gouverneur also held a public hearing on Local Law No. 2 of 2019, allowing for an override of the tax cap. The local law was later adopted by the town board during regular session.

The public hearing for the 2020 budget will be held on Thursday, November 7, 6 p.m., in the town offices building.

St. James School welcomes family support coordinator

Family Support Coordinator Karley Wake (photo by Jessyca Cardinell)

by Jessyca Cardinell

St. James Catholic School recently welcomed a new position into its staff, as it recently added a family support coordinator.

Karley Wake began her position at St. James along with St. Mary’s in Canton. She is alternating between the two schools, offering a great new opportunity for families to have extra support.

Mrs. Wake, who is originally from Harrisville and recently moved back to the area, has two children including a daughter who is in second grade at St. James.

“My hope is to help strengthen families and offer support for families and help them navigate the different systems. This includes the St. James Parish as well as the greater Gouverneur community. School is a huge part of a child’s social life and it’s important for families to be involved in what their children are doing,” said Mrs. Wake, who recently sent a survey home for families to fill in out in hopes of being able to help their specific needs and get to know them each individually a little better.

Mrs. Wake will be working on family-focused events to bring families out and together. The preschoolers will be able to sign books out in the month of October, as they have previously not been able to do so. For Thanksgiving Mrs. Wake is working on organizing a dinner for the families of the school to enjoy together. There will be a Family Book Club which the community as a whole will be able to be involved in.

“In October we will have a Parent’s Night Out event, which is an opportunity for parents to have child care provided so they can enjoy a date night together. For single parents this could mean a self care night,” said Mrs. Wake, excited for the opportunity this will provide parents.

Mrs. Wake has extensive experience and educational background, as she received her bachelor’s degree from St. Lawrence University and her Master’s Degree from The University of Kentucky.

She previously worked as a vocational counselor at Credo in Watertown and prior to that as Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation in Ohio.

“I saw an ad listed on Indeed for this position and I was on the fence about applying for it because I wasn’t sure I was ready to go to work with a small child at home. I put in my application just before the deadline and got the phone call,” said Mrs. Wake, about how this job opportunity presented itself to her.

Congratulations to Mrs. Wake on this fantastic position and opportunity to work so closely with these Catholic schools and the communities in which they are located.