St. Lawrence County Holstein Club hosts 2020 show at Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County fairgrounds

by Rachel Hunter

Noah MacDonald of Elm-Dell Farm in Richville showing at the 2020 St. Lawrence County Holstein Show. He won the Master Showman award. (Rachel Hunter photo)

The 2020 St. Lawrence County Holstein Club Show was hosted at the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fairgrounds at the Harry Parow Show Ring on Thursday, August 13.

Spectators arrived throughout the day to see the high-quality dairy cattle get evaluated. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, all those gathered were encouraged to wear facial coverings and abide by all local and health recommendations while in attendance.

The 2020 SLC Holstein Club Show judge was Adam Liddle, who owns and operates Liddleholme Farm in Argyle, N.Y., with his wife, Nicole, and children, Anthony, Brock and Hailee. Liddle developed an appreciation for deep pedigrees and show types by working as a herdsman for PamTom Farm, Reid’s Dairy and Ridgedale Farm prior to purchasing his farm and developing his own herd. His 75-cow milking herd has an elite breed age average of 110.7% and a lactation average of 22,000 lb. of milk. Liddleholme cattle have earned numerous All–New York and Junior All–New York awards, as well as nominations for All-American and Junior All-American recognition. Liddle serves on Expo’s Dairy Cattle Show Committee and is a director of the Tri-County Holstein Club. He’s judged many shows, including the Northeast Fall National, All-American Junior Show, Western National Spring Show and Wisconsin State Fair Junior Show. In 2008, he was the associate judge of Expo’s International Holstein Show.

All those in attendance were impressed with the high-quality Holsteins that were entered from dairy cattle farms all around New York State.

Full results will be published once they are made available to the Gouverneur Tribune Press.

Junior member holds a Holstein heifer’s head high during the 2020 SLC Holstein Show at the Gouverneur St. Lawrence County Fairgrounds on Thursday, August 13. (Rachel Hunter photo)

2020 SLC Holstein Club Show Judge Adam Liddle talks to LouAnne King of Midas-Touch Genetics and her grandson, Simon, about the heifer in the showring. (Rachel Hunter photo)

2020 SLC Holstein Club Show Judge Adam Liddle talking with exhibitors about the heifer they were showing. (Rachel Hunter photo)

Exhibitors position their dairy cattle in the show ring for the judge as he makes his final determinations in the class. (Rachel Hunter photo)

2020 SLC Holstein Club Show Judge Adam Liddle looks over the dairy cattle in a class in the Harry Parow show ring at the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fairgrounds. (Rachel Hunter photo)

Junior exhibitor looks her Holstein heifer in the eye as she leads it around the Harry Parow show ring during the 2020 Holstein Club Show at the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fairgrounds on Thursday, August 13. (Rachel Hunter photo)

Keeping eyes on the judge, exhibitors were astute to follow the judge’s directions around the show ring during the 2020 SLC Holstein Club Show on Aug. 13. (Rachel Hunter photo)

More showmanship action at the 2020 St. Lawrence County Holstein Club Show in Gouverneur. (Rachel Hunter photos)

More showmanship action at the 2020 St. Lawrence County Holstein Club Show in Gouverneur. (Rachel Hunter photos)

More showmanship action at the 2020 St. Lawrence County Holstein Club Show in Gouverneur. (Rachel Hunter photos)

USDA Food Box Distribution hosted at Gouverneur Community Center

by Rachel Hunter

North Country community members started getting in line for the USDA Food Box Distribution Program as early as 6:15 a.m. on Thursday, August 6 on State Highway 58 in front of the Gouverneur Community Center.

The free event was open all with no registration necessary. Staff and volunteers were on-hand to provide curbside pick-up of family style food boxes. Families received a total of three boxes – including a box of frozen meats, a box of produce and a box of dairy products. North Country community member were informed that products would be provided while they lasted, and the program would end when all products have been distributed.

The USDA Food Box Distribution Program is part of the Federal COVID-19 Food Assistance Program. The program is intended to purchase surplus commodities to assist farms and food businesses while making products available for free to those suffering from the economic impacts of the pandemic. This specific event is made possible by the work of the Gouverneur Community Center, Cornell Cooperative Extension of St. Lawrence County, the Gouverneur Neighborhood Center and GardenShare. Local distributors, such as Renzi Foodservice, deliver the products to non-profit partners who manage distribution to local families and individuals.

While no early arrivals were requested, distribution commenced in advance of the 10 a.m. start time. Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr. reported to the Town of Gouverneur Council at its Aug. 11 meeting that the Renzi Foodservice truck arrived at 8:30 a.m.

“We had a bunch of great volunteers,” Supervisor Spilman said. “They got it all unloaded in a half-hour, 45 minutes. At 9:15 a.m., we started handing out and it was all gone before 10 a.m. They got 20 pounds of frozen meat, 20 pounds of produce, and 20 pounds of dairy. It really went well. I had some disappointed people that showed up at 10 a.m. And I was warned that this is how this happens from the lady that does it every week up in Edwards… She does it a 5 p.m. at night, and has people lining up at 2 p.m. But it was a great turnout. We helped a lot of people, and I want to thank all the volunteers who came down and helped – and Cornell Cooperative Extension, I can’t say enough about them. Hopefully we’ll be able to do another one in the future.”

Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman Jr. and Cornell Cooperative Extension of St. Lawrence County Executive Director Patrick Ames started turning away vehicles on State Highway 58 at 9:59 a.m. The last box was distributed in front of the Gouverneur Community Center at about 10:15 a.m. The speed at which these USDA food boxes were distributed showcases the incredible need for such programs in the Gouverneur community. It was through the dedicated volunteer support of many St. Lawrence County agencies and local community members that made this event possible. Much gratitude was extended to the volunteers as the motorists made their way through the curbside pickup lines.

According to Supervisor Spilman, about 340 to 360 USDA Food Box Distributions were made available to the North Country at the Gouverneur Community Center, 4673 State Highway 58, Gouverneur, NY.

First Presbyterian Church of Gouverneur commences Fruit Bags Program with ENF grant funding

The First Presbyterian Church of Gouverneur Fruit Bags Program had its first distribution on Wednesday, July 29. The bags were packed in the basement of the First Presbyterian Church of Gouverneur. From left: Volunteers Susie Spilman, Carol Amberg, Terry Streeter are pictured with the packed bags that are tagged and ready for distribution. The bags are resting on the picnic tables that were recently built and made available for the North Country community members to use. (Rachel Hunter photo)

by Rachel Hunter

The First Presbyterian Church of Gouverneur on Wednesday, July 29 distributed the first round of “Fruit Bags” to shut-ins and senior citizens in the Gouverneur community. This was made possible due to the generosity of a $1,700 grant distributed from the Elks National Foundation to the First Presbyterian Church of Gouverneur by the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035. Its purpose? To serve community members – especially senior citizens – in need during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis.

A selection of fruit, including such fruit as peaches, apples, oranges, bananas, plums, nectarines, and clementines, were put in paper bags. A tag with an explanation of the program along with one of four Bible verses was included (I John 4:11, Psalm 133:1, Proverbs 17:17, and Galations 6:2). Volunteers who assisted in putting the bags together included Jim Mosher, Terry Streeter, Carol Amberg, Barb Laidlaw, Joe Laurenza, Judy Brown, and Susie Spilman.

A total of $244.84 was spent on the first round of the Fruit Bag Program, and a total of 70 people throughout the Gouverneur community received the Fruit Bags.

Seniors citizens throughout the Gouverneur community received the Fruit Bags, including those who were shut-in, and those at Cambray Court and Kilkarney Court.

Much gratitude is extended to the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 for making this program through the $1,700 ENF grant.

The First Presbyterian Church of Gouverneur also invites the North Country community to enjoy sitting at the picnic tables in front of the church building. Organizer Susie Spilman said the idea to build and position a couple picnic tables under the tree’s shade when church members spotted that several motorists had their cars parked along Church St. and were eating their lunches in their vehicles. She supervised the project, while the pressure treated wooden tables were assembled by Teddy Markwick and Kyle Spilman. The project took a couple hours to complete, but now the First Presbyterian Church of Gouverneur hopes the community will make good use of the tables in the future.

GCSD Board of Education discusses re-opening plan

by Jessyca Cardinell

The Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education met for their monthly meeting at the Gouverneur Central Middle School on the evening of Monday, August 3rd. Everyone was welcomed to watch the meeting via Facebook Live, a safe alternative during this confusing time of COVID-19 Pandemic

A major topic of discussion was the upcoming 2020-2021 school year, which is in the works of becoming a functioning plan to assist the Gouverneur Central School District families, staff and students.

“At this time, we are sharing Gouverneur Central School District’s reopening plan, approximately 80 pages worth of work, this was accomplished by a team of fifty-seven people with over three hundred people in the community providing input. A good thing to note is this is a working document, it’s a live document as we find out more information and collect more questions in the community. We will address those and redesign the plan with the given information we know about,” said Mrs. French

“What is very difficult is it’s like a chicken and the egg type story, do you put the plan out and then get feedback or do you get feedback first and then make the plan. So what we have done is with the 57 individuals that have volunteered to sit on this and with the comments we got from the community we are putting an initial draft and then we will be looking at feedback,” said Mrs. French as she went over the drafted item.

“The survey is basically going to be asking parents to make a commitment and that is, here is the plan we are looking at, here is the commitment we need from you. What is it and where is the disconnect? What is the connection between what your family needs and the school?” said Mrs. French. “Basically what we have done is divide the student population in half with the letters of the alphabet A-K and L-Z. There are 808 students in the first half of the alphabet and 838 students in the second portion of the alphabet. Those students will be placed in their grade appropriate classrooms. What that will enable us to do is to socially distance all of our scholars. The average classroom can hold about ten students. When you look at the elementary, I don’t want to say easy, because none of this will be particularly easy, but it will be easy for us to hold students in groups of about ten in the elementary. This enables them to be socially distanced and they will also be wearing masks during this time. Classrooms will have their encores pushed in so that students will be limited to exposure and there won’t be as many opportunities for our scholars to be mixing with different groups of children. This would mean music would be pushed in, PE will be pushed in, this way our scholars will be pretty much a group of nine or ten other students with their teacher and about one or two other push in teachers,” said Mrs. French.

She shared exciting news that meals can be served in homes, the school is looking into being able to provide meals in bags for students to be take home and enjoy.

“Another thing we’ve looked into is in order to litigate congestion in the hallways, we have designated certain doorways as UPK and Kindergarten doorway, a 1st and 2nd grade doorway and a 3rd and 4th grade doorway,” said Mrs. French.

Mrs. French shared that the bussing situation will also provide social distancing for students, as 61% of the school population uses the bus as transportation to and from school. This amounts to approximately 360, however this will be separated in half to about 160 students and separate doorways.

Mrs. French stated that students with be based in small groups, limited interaction and socially distancing int the classroom, providing a safer atmosphere. The School District will also be looking for ways to help assist families seeking childcare.

“With families coming with by the letter of their last name, the entire family will be coming into school and leaving a 1st or 2nd grader home while an older sibling is at school. That jumps to the next step which indicates we will be going back to a single bus run, students will be picked up on a single trip and they will be taken home on a single trip.” said Mrs. French, who explained why this would be more effective.

“When we looked at how much time it would take to clear a bus and clean a bus and then letting the bus sit in a resting stage while the disinfectant has time to work, which is a good chunk of time, then send that bus back out to get another bus run of students, there’s no way we could get all students into a seven hour day. It will be a single run A-K, what we are looking at is Monday and Tuesday will be A-K, Wednesday will be a remote day and Thursday and Friday will be L-Z,” said Mrs. French.

“Another thing we have indicated is we will certainly work with families who have blended families.” said Mrs. French, this would mean those families with two last names who are not in the same group would still get to attend school at the same time. This would also be helpful as families do not have to social distance on the buses.

This Mrs. French stated is the reason for the second survey, a way to get a closer look at what families need.

Mrs. French went over the various options that they are looking for feedback on, including parents who are interested in remote learning only, meaning their student would acquire attendance through a remote platform.

“We are also looking at a hybrid modeling your student is in two days a week and then three days a week with remote learning included. We are also looking at students who are self-contained and get outside serves including speech and P.T. The things that we cannot send people who provide those services to individual homes. Those students are in classes of eight or less so we can actually meet their needs here at school and again keep the environment as safe as possible,” said Mrs. French.

Mrs. French stated that is the purpose of the survey, to figure out which model of learning parents are most interested in their students receiving. Whether that be the hybrid model which includes in school learning as well as remote learning from home, or if the preferred model would be a completely remote learning experience from home.

When it comes to masks, there has been a great debate and concern about this.

“Right now, the medical opinion is that they wear their mask 100% of the time in school.” said Mrs. French, who expressed more input from the community would be really appreciated on this plan in the works.

The survey will be put out through the GCSD Wildcats Facebook Page. If there is no response from Facebook, there is a team of 20 people who will be calling families in order to ensure that there is 100 percent participation opportunity for the survey.

“I do understand it is very hard to put a survey out on Facebook because you have populations of people who do not have access to quality technology, which is why we will do a check off, the survey will be due by Friday, as it is going Live tomorrow at 11 a.m. On Friday, if we do not have a response then we will start triaging those names between the twenty people who have volunteered to collect the data. Family engagement should be very constant,” said Mrs. French, who gave Nurse Bev Martin and Harold Simmons credit for being substantial in knowledge of health and safety.

The school district is looking at hands free hand sanitizer dispensers to help with controlling and eliminating contamination. The air flow meets the safety concerns and regulations in the Middle School and Elementary, which is wonderful news. The High School needs to a closer look to make some changes.

“There are all sorts of things we are going to have to be doing in terms of taking trainings and so Bev Martin has to do hygiene and respiratory health and mask wearing.” said Mrs. French, who stated that Mrs. Martin is in fact making videos to help with education in these areas.

Parents will be asked to take their child’s temperature every morning before sending them to school as a precaution to ensure that no sick children are sent to school.

“We are purchasing three cloth masks for every teacher and every student. They will be washable so they can go home and be laundered. If a student comes to school and has forgotten their mask, they will be given a disposable mask for the day. The district is looking at ways in providing students with breaks from wearing the masks in safe manner.

Social distancing will require us to be careful of the exchange in the hallways. Students are pretty much going to be delegated to certain areas of the school.

We have no resolved lunch yet. Some of the other schools with whom I’ve spoken are actually taking the extra time and are setting up in the gymnasium and social distancing lunch that way.” said Mrs. French, who again stated these areas really need some feedback from families and staff so the school is prepared with what the community would like to see and what would make them feel comfortable. Gouverneur Elementary is looking at lunches being held in individual classrooms.

Parent pick-up is another avenue that needs to be explored.

“We are working with bussing 61% of students, we are also looking for parent commitment transport because we might actually be able to do bus runs differently,” said Mrs. French.

Mrs. French explained the concern with splitting half days with various running around from parents as they try to keep up with the differing schedules if they have multiple children who all go to different schools in the District. It could cause a lot of chaos, confusion and frustration.

Mrs. French said details like one staircase is for going up and one for going down is being looked at to lessen the possibility of contamination in the High School.

“We’ve set up restricted areas in terms of someone comes to school and doesn’t feel well. That child is set up in an isolation room. That is something we have to set up under certain perimeters. With testing we have different sources available where testing can take place. What we have to do in what order and how long. This is probably going to be one of the biggest areas in Gouverneur as far as compliance. I think it is very important that people understand why we are doing what we are doing.

Right now we are limiting when teachers and support staff can come in the building. The reason for that is, if I come into the building and I turn out to test positive for COVID, and I used the faculty lounge to do some xeroxing and I went to the bathroom and into the kitchen to get water out of the cooler and then went into my classroom; then someone later on followed some of my same patterns and touched surfaces that I may have touched, if we don’t know who’s been there, we can’t accurately trace the individuals that were there after me. It’s going to be very important that we know when people arrive at the building, are in the building and leave the building,” said Mrs. French.

Mrs. French stated that work is aggressively being done so teachers have the ability to set up their classrooms and get ready for the upcoming school year. This includes getting rid of items no longer allowed that have potential to spread the virus.

Mrs. French stated that many items will have to be thoroughly gone through including toys, calculators and items that are frequently handled and touched.

The school district is looking at UV cabinets to store items so they can be disinfected properly and used again.

Mrs. French stated that food is vital to be provided and students will be able to take home their lunch for the portion of the week they are not at school.

“Probably the biggest concern not only for teachers and administrators but for families as well is the social, emotional well-being of each scholar. This is not an easy situation to be in, so we have counseling planned, we have the trauma team and social workers. Our staff has been generating

“We are giving parents the opportunity to look at this and say to themselves, what best meets the needs of our family, our scholars and the resources we have. They will then make a commitment on the survey as that comes out. If no one responds to this survey on Facebook, we figure it would take each one of us making 78 phone calls. We know we will have a lot of good response from people,” said Mrs. French.

Mrs. French stated in conclusion,

“Do parent have a choice? Yes they do,” said Mrs. French.

She went over what had been stated previously, “Letters of the last name, A-K and L-Z in terms of what days they come in on. We will work with blended families to put in one group. We will provide transportation; however these are going to be commitments. They are not going to be opt in or opt out, we cannot do that when we have to socially distance kids,” said Mrs. French.

Mrs. French explained she really needed the Board of Education to have the opportunity to listen to the information and ask questions pertaining to the reopening of school for the 2020-2021 school year.

Mrs. Laurie Roberts, GCSD Board of Education Member, asked about those families who do not have thermometers at home and are unable to obtain one.

Mrs. French stated the school is looking into helping those families out and providing them with the thermometer to use to ensure everyone is checked daily.

The District is also required to social distance during fire drills, ensuring students stay the six feet apart. The one circumstance where this will not be necessary is in the case of a real fire. This will also be the case for shelter in place drills, the students will be socially distancing, unless there is an actual real threat.

When it comes to remote learning Mrs. French said that dependent on grade level it will look very different.

High School students will have a work level more closely related to college students, while younger grades will have less expectations on them and more interactive.

The District has been looking into a way to work with families to make the work at home less stressful than the period from March to June this past school year. Many parents were concerned it was too much busy work and Mrs. French and the staff at Gouverneur Central are looking into ways to alleviate this concern. Offering more fun and different looking models and experiences, as they now have more time to plan such learning.

As the meeting continued many areas are being discussed and looked into to make the most of this upcoming school year with the circumstances as they are. The District has many strict guidelines to follow and is doing their best execute and effective plan.

All parents are asked to participate in the survey as to give the Gouverneur Central School District a better grasp on what exactly will work the best for families and students to ensure a successful school year for all.

Thirst of the Dead: Gouverneur native authors, plays lead zombie in short horror film to air in over 60 countries this October

by Rachel Hunter

Gouverneur native Gregory French in all of his zombie makeup as the lead zombie in “Thirst of the Dead.” (photo courtesy of Coastal Independent Films)

There is not much to celebrate during a zombie apocalypse – but when five friends stumble across a rare commodity (a six-pack of beer) their celebration leads to some trouble. That was the premise of a short film, “Thirst of the Dead,” written by Gouverneur native Gregory French, and produced by Coastal Independent Films, Myrtle Beach, SC.

In an interview with the Gouverneur Tribune Press, Gregory French told how he got the idea for the film: “There’s a product out there that is a metal beer koozie that holds a beer bottle, but also has a lid that screws on and keeps it from spilling. I use it all the time. It is one of my favorite things, because I burn a lot of beer… and so I was using that and somehow it got knocked off of my end table onto my cement patio. I picked it up and the beer inside was still good. None had spilled. The bottle was not broken, and I was like: “Wait a second. This gives me a really neat idea for a commercial for these guys.”

“So I came up with a zombie apocalypse and there is some survivors that are searching through a convenience store for whatever and they find a six-pack of beer. They are celebrating because beer is like a commodity in the post-apocalyptic zombie world, I’m sure. So when you find it, you have to celebrate the little things. So they are hanging out, celebrating, and the lead guy. He has his in one of these bottle holders – and all of a sudden they are making too much noise celebrating and a zombie comes in and kind of knock over all their beers and they all break except for the one that was in the container. That was the idea I pitched to them for the commercial, but nothing ever came of it.

So maybe for or five years later, we formed Costal Independent Films, my film production company. We were pitching ideas, and it just pops back into my head. Hold on a second, I got an idea for a commercial that I was working on. It might be what we are after. So I went home and developed a script based on the zombies and beer type of thing and turned it from a 30-second commercial into the movie that became Thirst of the Dead. It’s got a lot more parts than the zombie knocking over the beer…”

“Thirst of the Dead” by Coastal Independent Films won the 2020 Homegrown Horror Award at the Crimson Screen Horror Film Fest in Charleston. (photo courtesy of Coastal Independent Films)

Formed in July 2019, the group of passionate filmmakers at Coastal Independent Films, were looking for creative ideas. And by September 2019, a group formed and started pre-production work on “Thirst of the Dead.” Usually a month-long process of meticulous planning, it took the group less than a month. And the filming which can take weeks, took place in one day – October 13.

The filming took place on 30-acres of rural land on the outskirts of Myrtle Beach owned by one of the production team members. “He had a small house on it, and at the time he was building another room, so that’s where we filmed because it looked like we were able to take the unbuilt room and put some set dressing on it to make it look like a broken-down building,” French said. “There was already a lot of boxes from construction and stuff, so we needed to make it look like the scavengers were finding stuff to look through and find cans of food or whatever. So that was good, but his property has some pretty heavily wooded areas but also has this nice open field. There is a dirt road, gravel path, and it also has this beautiful stream with really calm water where it goes into a waterfall. And so staying in that one place, we were able to get a lot of different environments and make it look like they were on this epic journey – traveling miles and miles when really we were just turning the camera around… We were all within the same 30-acre area.”

Gregory French said his experience on the set of “The Walking Dead” allowed him to play a convincing zombie – and to teach others to do the same.

“We had an open call for all the zombie extras,” he said. “I was the only one we knew was going to be a zombie. We had an open casting call for other zombies, and we had a whole bunch of other people come in and I had to teach them, like, how to be a real zombie, Walking Dead- style zombie. We didn’t want it to be hokey. If a zombie film is not done the right way, it can look kind of cheesy and hokey and the makeup can be kind of ehhh… but we wanted it to be as good as The Walking Dead zombies with The Walking Dead makeup. We want the people who watch this to be like totally blown away that a totally non-Walking Dead group could pull off this level of performance and material and everything. I think we nailed it.”

Coastal Independent Films also had some help from Sean Krumholtz of RedHouse FX.

“I met him through The Walking Dead,” French said. “Through Season Three, Season Four, they were sending me to different places for Walking Dead pictures and autographs and whatever. I was at a (charity event called) a Zombie Run.. and I kept seeing this really good zombie makeup coming through. And so I asked five or six people with just this amazing makeup, “Who is doing your makeup?” I don’t remember what he said he was doing, computer engineer or something, and I was like, “No, I am going to put you in touch with some people. You need to be doing this… and now, this is what he does. He is a professional makeup artist… He’s that good. So when we decided to do Thirst of the Dead, I knew he was the guy that I wanted to do my makeup. I knew there was going to be some closeup shots of my face or whatever – and I wanted him to do it. He worked on the makeup he was going to do for me for two months.”

Gregory French got in the makeup chair at 5 a.m. on October 13 and four-hours later had transformed into the lead zombie for the Thirst of the Dead film.

“It seems like a long time, but being on The Walking Dead – that’s a typical day. You show up at 5 a.m. You sit in a chair, and you let them work on you, and then three hours later, you look in a mirror and you don’t recognize who you are.

“And that’s one of the things, strange enough, that a lot of people can’t handle… there’s different levels of makeup on The Walking Dead. If you are going to be featured and you are going to be all up in the camera, you are in the makeup chair for a long time – and it is very claustrophobic. It’s hard to breathe. We film all summer long it Atlanta, so it is super hot, sweaty. A lot of time they put dental implants in, so you can’t close your mouth all day… and a typical day is 12-16 hours in the makeup. And if you are going to be a super-feature, they put contact lenses in, and these lenses they are cataract lenses… so you cant see anything. It’s very claustrophobic. A lot of the guys are like, this is pretty cool, but then at the end of a couple hours are like, “Okay, this sucks. Get me out of here...” They start freaking out. There is a core of us that they use over and over and over because for some reason, it doesn’t bother us at all… and we can still give a really convincing performance acting in this hot, sweaty makeup without needing to take too many breaks and crying because it hurts or whatever.”

“Thirst of the Dead,” a 13-minute film won the 2020 Homegrown Horror Award at the Crimson Screen Horror Film Fest in Charleston. A few days later, Mr. French, the film’s writer and lead zombie, heard from Shorts TV, an international television channel. They wanted to buy the rights to the film and air it in over 60 countries.

“I got an email from them,” Gregory French said. “I was out camping in the woods when I got it, so I had like spotty cell coverage anyway. So I got an email… One of the directors of Thirst of the Dead, his daytime job is a lawyer, so I told him about it. So I told him to look it over. He said, “Dude, this is legit. This is real.” So then we finally got our contract signed and their contract signed and everything sent to them...

“We had to do a whole behind-the-scenes bumper for this that they will air before the film. On their channel, they will have like the filmmakers spotlight, and it will talk about like making the film, and so we had to do a whole sit-down interview with like the crew. So I did one as the writer, the two directors were there, the cameraman, the sound-guy – and we all did our own thing. It was like its own production all in its own, coming up with what we were going to do for that. So they said it was going to air around the October timeframe, around Halloween, which makes sense because it is horror. It is not really horror. It is a lighthearted zombedy… The way it is written and filmed, you don’t know it is a comedy until the funny stuff happens. It looks very scary at first, and then you’re like, “Wait a second, did that really just happen?” And then it goes back to being serious again… It sets the hook by that first funny thing that happens, and then it just takes you along for the rest of the ride...”

“Thirst of the Dead” is set to air on Shorts TV in October, just in time for Halloween. You can find it in a variety of places, including DirecTV(Channel 573), AT&T U-Verse (Channel 1789), AT&T TV NOW, Google Fiber (Channel 603), Frontier Communications (Channel 789) and Hotwire (Channel 560). For more information, visit: shorts.tv/en/

Gregory French also informed the Gouverneur Tribune Press that he got his directorial debut on The Vegetarian, which will come out on Labor Day. It was filmed it mid-March, and it is still in post-production.

“I had never directed before,” he said, explaining that Coastal Independent Films provides the opportunity to learn from the best in the film production industry. “I had no idea what I was doing. There’s a lot that goes into it. You don’t just show up and say action. You have to have the vision. You have to control people, and tell the actors like, “Okay, I like what you are doing here but do it this way instead, and bring that out of them, but also leading up to it… all the pre-production things, you have to know which cameras you have to use, which lenses the cameras need to use, and where you need the camera focused, and everything the camera is going to see has to be planned out before we get on set… and I had no idea that is what a director did. I just thought they showed up and said, “Okay, you go over here, action.” And there is a lot more to it, and I learned from Paul (Inman) one of the guys who directed the Thirst of the Dead, he taught me the whole process, helped me to get my whole shot lists and everything. I’m learning a lot. I’ve never edited before, so I am starting to get into that, but there’s a lot that goes into that than I can possibly learn in a year.”

Gregory French’s acting talents are no stranger to the Gouverneur community. He got his start on the Gouverneur High School stage when he was a fifth grader, when he took on the role as Louis in the “King and I.”

“I had no idea what I was doing, but I guess Mary Lou Scott, the musical director at the time, knew they needed a kid and asked my mom – and said, “Yeah, I’ll ask him.” Of course, I could sing and do all that stuff when I was a kid and so I auditioned and the next thing I know I am up there on stage. And then I was in every musical since fifth grade until I graduated. I always loved performing. I love being in front of people. I love the applause. I don’t know why. It is just who I am. So that really got me started.”

After graduation, Gregory French joined the US Air Force, and served during Operation Desert Storm. “While in the military, I was in different acting groups and such at different stations. If there wasn’t one, I’d start one at whatever base I was on.” He then moved to Myrtle Beach, SC to attend Coastal Carolina University for Marine Science and got a job at the Dixie Stampede. One of the emcees was leaving, so I told the head of production there, “Hey, I would like to audition… I had been there for a couple years already and I had the show memorized, because you hear it every night. The only thing I couldn’t do was ride a horse, and the whole show was on horseback. So I went and took some horseriding lessons… the one who trained all the riders. He lived right down the street from me… and so, I spent a couple weeks learning how to ride a horse so I could look like I knew what I was doing. So when I auditioned, “They were like, “Holy crap, man! Yeah. Hired!” So I was the Master of Ceremonies. There’s two roles that person does… one night I would be the master of ceremonies out there leading the show and singing on the horseback and doing all that stuff, and on nights that I wasn’t that, I’d be the comedian… It was a lot of fun. I’ve always tried to find something new where I could be in front of people.

“And then I was playing in a rock band here in town and a guitar player from my band he makes local commercials. He’s in advertising. So every once-in-a-while he’ll have me do voice-overs for a radio spot or whatever, because I do a lot of voices and impressions also. One day, he was like, “I need someone to be on camera. Are you interested?” And I was like, “Yeah man, whatever, I’ll do it.” That commercial still plays every year around football time because it is the football team’s commercial – and it’s been 10 years and it is still playing, because it is that good of a commercial. Once he saw what I could do on camera, anytime he needed something for a commercial, “Hey man, you’re my go-to.” So I started doing a lot of commercials with him – and it started out as no pay or only like $6 because it was just as a favor to him. But then we were on a really big commercial for one of the resorts here, and so he brought in actors from all over the southeast… and that’s what the professional job was, acting. And he kept using me for all these shots. And all these other actors were like, “You’re good, man. Where do you get training? Who is your agent?” And I was like, “I am just helping him out. He is a friend of mine.” And they were like, “Wow, you should look at doing this more professionally than what you are doing… because your talents are being wasted doing what you are doing.” And I was like, “Oh man, I appreciate that.” So I made some contacts and realized that the Southeast is one of the hotspots for TV and movies...”

Gregory French has been featured on TV programs including "The Walking Dead" and "Under the Dome" and has had small parts in several movies such as "Spiderman: Homecoming", "Iron Man 3", "Parental Guidance", and "We're the Millers." He also enjoys the Indie Film world, where he has earned starring roles in movies such as the horror film, "The Legend of 7 Toe Maggie," and the military comedy, "Weekend Warriors." Greg has now added "Stunt Performer" to his resume after completing several stunt training classes, and is looking forward to his career as a Stunt Actor. Gregory is represented by Reel Sisters Talent out of Wilmington, NC.

Gregory French is looking forward to upcoming project with Costal Independent Films.

On Wednesday, August 5 he announced that Coastal Independent is producing a Stephen King film.

“They give us a Stephen King story – one of his short stories to develop a script out of and then film it, and we got approval for everything so far, so now we are in pre-production on a Stephen King film… We are really stoked about that. But not only that, we are starting on our next projects… so we have about two years worth of films already lined up. We’re just pumping it out. We’re trying to do one film every two months with shorter films in between. Most places will do like one film every six to eight, maybe 10 months, some only one film every year… so we are kicking them out here.”

Coastal Independent Film premieres "SHOTS! A Guy Walks Into A Bar" this week and "The Vegetarian" on Labor day. Follow them on Facebook and Youtube.

USDA Food Box Distribution Slated for August 6 in Gouverneur

A USDA Food Box Distribution Program will be held at the Gouverneur Community Center, 4673 State Highway 58, Gouverneur, on Thursday, August 6th, 10:00 am to 12:00 noon. The event is open to all with no registration necessary. Staff and volunteers will be present to provide curbside pick-up of family style grocery boxes. Families will receive a total of three boxes, including a box of frozen meats, a box of produce and a box of dairy products. Products will be provided while they last, and the program will end when all products have been distributed. No early arrivals please.

The USDA Food Box Distribution Program is part of the Federal COVID-19 Food Assistance Program. The program is intended to purchase surplus commodities to assist farms and food businesses while making products available for free to those suffering from the economic impacts of the pandemic. This specific event is made possible by the work of the Gouverneur Community Center, Cornell Cooperative Extension of St. Lawrence County, the Gouverneur Neighborhood Center and GardenShare. Local distributors, such as Renzi Foodservice, deliver the products to non-profit partners who manage distribution to local families and individuals.

Direct questions to David Spilman, Director of the Community Center at 315-287-9144 or Patrick Ames, Executive Director of Extension, at 315-379-9192, ext. 226.

About Cornell Cooperative Extension: Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities and provided equal programs and employment opportunities.

USDA Food Box Distribution hosted by Gouverneur Kiwanis to be held August 5

Volunteers preparing for the distribution on July 29 at the Gouverneur Elementary School in conjunction with the free milk distribution, hosted by the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club. (Rachel Hunter photo)

by Rachel Hunter

The USDA Food Box Distribution at the Gouverneur Elementary School, hosted by the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club in partnership with Renzi Foodservice was canceled on Wednesday, July 29 due to a mix-up in communication.

The first USDA Food Box Distribution in Gouverneur was organized to be a free, first-come, first-served event. The pre-packaged boxes on the Renzi Foodservice truck were to contain produce, dairy and frozen meats. The USDA Food Box Distribution Program is part of the Federal COVID-19 Food Assistance Program. Local distributors, such as Renzi Foodservice, deliver the products to non-profit partners who manage distribution to local families and individuals.

Gouverneur Cub Scouts Pack 2035 Cubmaster Chris Gates volunteering at the Free Milk Distribution, hosted by the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club in partnership with Hood Dairy, on Wednesday, July 29 at Gouverneur Elementary School. (Rachel Hunter photo)

The news spread like wildfire in the Gouverneur community, and local residents arrived as early as 6 a.m. to get a distribution. By the 8 a.m. scheduled start time, motorists had surrounded the bus loop and filled Gleason Street and had reportedly even started lining up on Rock Island St. Shortly after 8 a.m. news of the miscommunication was received on site when the Renzi Foodservice truck hadn’t arrived, and the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club issued its sincere regrets via its Facebook page and informed each attendee of the mix-up at the event.

It was reported to the Gouverneur Tribune Press that USDA Food Box Distribution will be held at the Gouverneur Elementary School on Wednesday, August 5, but no further details were available by press time.

All Gouverneur community members who stopped by the Gouverneur Elementary School on Wednesday morning had the opportunity to receive free milk.

The Gouverneur community is reminded that 5,376 units of milk is delivered by HP Hood LLC each week for families in need throughout the North Country. The free weekly milk distribution is held at the Gouverneur Elementary School, 111 Gleason Street, Gouverneur, 8 a.m. to noon, every Wednesday through August 26. Pick-up is at the bus loop entrance at the rear of the elementary school building. Follow the traffic cones and signs for guidance to the cafeteria loading dock area, and simply let the volunteers know how many gallons and what type you would like. This is a curbside pick-up only. Please remain in your car safely distanced. Volunteers will come you wearing a face mask, abiding by COVID-19 regulations.

Stephanie LaShomb helping to register North Country residents at the free weekly milk distribution, hosted by the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club, at the Gouverneur Elementary School, on Wednesday, July 29. (Rachel Hunter photo)

This past week, organizers started collecting demographic data on those attending and encouraged all those participating to fill out the Census.

In addition, the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club received a $500 grant to support families and community during the COVID-19 pandemic from the Northern New York Community Foundation COVID-19 Community Support Fund. Local farmers – thanks to the work of Brian Bennett of Bittersweet Farm, a small family farm in DePeyster, which is certified organic with NOFA-NY – have graciously partnered with the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club to bring fresh, local produce for distribution at weekly free milk giveaway at the Gouverneur Elementary School on Wednesday, July 22 and Wednesday, July 29. Bittersweet Farm also made an additional donated contribution to increase the amount of produce available to the North Country community. The vegetables to North Country consumers on Wednesday, July 29 included green beans, summer squash, zucchini, potatoes, and so much more.

Also, there was a distribution of cereal, made possible by the Kinney Drugs Warehouse and the First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur.

To keep informed on the latest breaking information about the USDA Food Box Distribution events hosted by the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club, follow their Facebook page as well as the GCSD Wildcats Facebook page. Gouverneur Kiwanis Club President Charity Zawatski said a final agreement has not been formalized with Renzi Foodservice, but the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club has requested to enter an agreement to host a weekly USDA Food Box Distribution at the Gouverneur Elementary School.

Village board recognizes GPD’s dedicated service a month after Treyanna Summerville’s death

by Rachel Hunter

Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall at the July 21 Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees publicly extended gratitude to the Gouverneur Police Department for its dedicated service this past month since the death of Treyanna Summerville.

“As we are all aware, we had the tragedy at 135 Rowley St. involving a death and alleged murder. A difficult situation on a number of us, whether it be the DPW or other agencies, outside agencies, recognition things that took place afterwards, some down by the high school, and vigils and marches and other things. Particularly, for the Police Department it has been a most difficult situation – far and above what many of the rest of us went through other than of course the family who lost a family member, and has one person charged, and another out on bail. Justice for Treyanna. We all want that. We want justice for all. How that comes out, I don’t know… But it was four weeks ago yesterday, and it has been difficult… Particularly to (Chief Laurina Greenhill) and the Police Department on behalf of the Village Board, I’d just like to publicly thank you, all of you.”

There were no other comments made at the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees meeting last Tuesday.

The next meeting of the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees will be held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, August 18.

NNY Community Foundation COVID-19 Support Fund grants Gouverneur Kiwanis Club $500 award to support community during COVID-19 pandemic

by Rachel Hunter

Brian Bennett of Bittersweet Farms in DePeyster joins Stephanie LaShomb and Gouverneur Kiwanis President Charity Zawatski filling bags of produce from local farmers to be distributed during the free weekly milk distribution on Wednesday, July 22. Mr. Bennett told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that $250 worth of produce was brought for distribution to the community on Wednesday, July 22 and $250 worth of produce from local farms will be made available for distribution at the Wednesday, July 29 distribution at Gouverneur Elementary from 8 a.m. to noon. All are welcome. (Rachel Hunter photo)

The Gouverneur Kiwanis Club received a $500 grant to support families and community during the COVID-19 pandemic from the Northern New York Community Foundation COVID-19 Community Support Fund.

Local farmers – thanks to the work of Brian Bennett of Bittersweet Farm, a small family farm in DePeyster, which is certified organic with NOFA-NY – have graciously partnered with the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club to bring fresh, local produce for distribution at weekly free milk giveaway at the Gouverneur Elementary School on Wednesday, July 22 and Wednesday, July 29. Bittersweet Farm also made an additional donated contribution to increase the amount of produce available to the North Country community.

“We appreciate the partnership with Brian Bennett from Bittersweet Farm and their local support for our community,” Gouverneur Kiwanis Preside Charity Zawatski said. “The gratitude of our community goes to the Northern New York Community Foundation and their continued support in giving back and providing for all Northern New York communities.”

Mr. Bennett this past Wednesday brought summer squash, green beans, peppers, strawberry rhubarb jam, cabbage and more – but it wasn’t just from his own garden. He said the produce came from about six or seven different farms around the North County, including some Amish families and some farms that were represented at the Canton Farmers Market. Bittersweet Farm also donated one-pound bunches of LambsQuarter, otherwise known as “Wild Spinach.” Mr. Bennett said he recommends experimenting when preparing dishes with the LambsQuarter as there are dozens of good ways to use the leaves – everything from Spanikopta (or Greek Spinach Pie) to omelets, fritatas, quiches, and stir-frys (with bacon and onions). He added that LambsQuarter is sturdier than common spinach and freezes well. The green is higher in iron and Vitamin C than any one can find in the grocery store.

Mr. Bennett said he was glad to hear about the $500 grant from Northern New Community Foundation amid the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, and the ability to help to stimulate the local farming community through this distribution effort.

While at the July 22 weekly free milk distribution, the Gouverneur Tribune Press learned that the First United Methodist Church and Kinney Drugs Warehouse donated 600 boxes of cereal to be paired with the weekly food donation.

Gouverneur Kiwanis Club President Charity Zawatski also informed the Gouverneur Tribune Press that tthe Gouverneur Kiwanis Club has partnered with Renzi Foods and will be distributing the USDA Food Boxes that are pre-packaged and contain produce, dairy and meat as available. At this time, no registration is required. The first distribution will be July 29th from 8:00-10:00 until boxes and supply are gone. “We anticipate weekly distribution as long as Renzi's has it available,” President Zawatski said. “This is a curbside pick-up at 111 Gleason Street. This is FREE and OPEN to anyone who wishes to come and get boxes of food. This is not affiliated with the Summer Feeding School Lunch Program, which is also still available. Please remain in your car, make sure your trunk is clear for loading.”

President Zawatski also announced the following: “The People Project facilitated by Mary Wills, American Federation of Teachers, NYS United Teachers and the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club all partnered and were able to get a grant sponsored through T-Mobile for Internet data hot spots for our community. We are receiving four. These are good for two years and all the data is paid for. Locally, Brandi Jenkins supported the placement at the Richville Snack Shack with one data hot spot located there for use. A second location is at the Fowler Town Hall and was supported by Rick Newvine. In addition, free books will be distributed to children as donated through the People Project.”

First UMC of Gouverneur volunteer and GCSD Board of Education Member Naaman Lowry stands with a portion of the 600 boxes of cereal that were made available for distribution at the free weekly milk distribution on July 22 at the Gouverneur Elementary School. (Rachel Hunter photo)

In conclusion, President Zawatski said: “So, clearly, during COVID-19, the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club is very active and supporting the community.”

The Gouverneur Tribune Press reminds all to take advantage of the free offerings made available through the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club, especially the free weekly milk distribution. The free weekly milk distribution is held at the Gouverneur Elementary School, 111 Gleason Street, Gouverneur, 8 a.m. to noon, every Wednesday through August 26. Pick-up is at the bus loop entrance at the rear of the elementary school building. Follow the traffic cones and signs for guidance to the cafeteria loading dock area, and simply let the volunteers know how many gallons and what type you would like. This is a curbside pick-up only. Please remain in your car safely distanced. Volunteers will come you wearing a face mask, abiding by COVID-19 regulations.

For more information, check out the GCSD Wildcats page.

Fire alarm system to be installed at Town of Gouverneur Office Building in September

by Rachel Hunter

Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr. at the July 14 meeting of the Town of Gouverneur Council announced that the fire alarm system will be installed at Town of Gouverneur Office Building and at the Friends 4 Pound Paws Building, starting the first week in September.

Supervisor Spilman told the town council members that Alltech Integrations, Inc. “got backed up because of COVID-19.” “Things just kind of went backwards on them,” he said.

“On that note, I met with our insurance inspector, and went through all the properties and the lift stations and pump stations last Friday, and he took a lot of pictures and updated some things. We should be getting that report soon.”

The next meeting of Town of Gouverneur Council is to be held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, August 11.

Free milk for all available in Gouverneur this summer

by Rachel Hunter

Volunteers distributing free milk to community members in need, thanks to the weekly distribution hosted by the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club. The weekly shipment of 5,376 units of milk from Hood is received at Gouverneur Elementary and then distributed each Wednesday morning from 9 a.m. to noon. (Rachel Hunter photo)

Gouverneur Kiwanis Club President Charity Zawatski announced to the Gouverneur Tribune Press this week that all 5,376 units of milk delivered by HP Hood LLC had been delivered to families in need throughout the North Country within the first week of the free milk distribution.

The free weekly milk distribution is held at the Gouverneur Elementary School, 111 Gleason Street, Gouverneur, 8 a.m. to noon, every Wednesday through August 26. Pick-up is at the bus loop entrance at the rear of the elementary school building. Follow the traffic cones and signs for guidance to the cafeteria loading dock area, and simply let the volunteers know how many gallons and what type you would like. This is a curbside pick-up only. Please remain in your car safely distanced. Volunteers will come you wearing a face mask, abiding by COVID-19 regulations.

This milk is free to anyone. “You do not have to be a school member, student or live in Gouverneur,” President Zawatski said. “It’s open to everyone from anywhere.” All are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity.

President Zawatski also announced that the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club has partnered and shared with the Hammond Central School District, Heuvelton Central School District, Lisbon Central School District, Edwards-Knox Central School District, SLU Office of Student Activities and Leadership, Office of Aging in Gouverneur and surrounding locations (including the Gouverneur Community Center), Ogdensburg Boys and Girls Club, Salvation Army of Ogdensburg, and local food pantries in Gouverneur Ogdensburg, and Canton.

As was earlier edition of the Gouverneur Tribune Press, the first free milk distribution was held on Wednesday, July 8, the pop-up distribution event being hosted by the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club. The distribution is being made possible through the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Glazier Packing won the bid to conduct the distribution through the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and asked HP Hood LLC – one of two dairy processors supplying milk to Glazier Packing – for help finding communities in need. Glazier has, in turn, partnered with the Gouverneur Kiwanis as a registered 501c3 to coordinate the distribution.

“It’s really a joint effort between many parties,” HP Hood Communications Specialist Laura Lynn said. “But it is all being made possible because of USDA.”

In an attempt to find communities in need and reach local families, HP Hood Communications Specialist Laura Lynn said their sales team got to work, reaching out to the local community. It was Senior Sales Representative Heather Love that reached out to the American Red Cross locally in the area. “They are the ones that connected her to the Kiwanis and set up the relationship between Glazier and Kiwanis,” Lynn said.

Each week, 5,376 units of milk will be trucked to the Gouverneur Elementary School in preparation for the distribution. A total of 1,344 units of each of the following four products will be available for distribution: 2% half-gallons, 2% full-gallons, 1% half-gallons and %1 full-gallons. The distribution at Gouverneur Elementary will be through Wednesday, August 26.

All North Country community members who would like free milk are encouraged to stop by Gouverneur Elementary on Wednesday mornings from 8 a.m. to noon. Pick-up is at the bus loop entrance at the rear of the elementary school building. Follow the traffic cones and signs for guidance to the cafeteria loading dock area, and simply let the volunteers know how many gallons and what type you would like. This is a curbside pick-up only. Please remain in your car safely distanced. Volunteers will come you wearing a face mask, abiding by COVID-19 regulations.

“We do have some other volunteers coming to help – like the Gouverneur Cub Scouts Pack 2035, St. Lawrence County Dairy Princess, Tedra Cobb, Cerebral Palsy Association, and Bittersweet Farm, and our own kids that wish to help,” President Zawatski said. “We welcome volunteers and they can contact Charity if their group or organization would like to help.”

For agencies, schools or other programs, call Charity at 315-727-5839 or email at zawatski.charity@gcsk12.org to make special large quantity pick up arrangements.

Don’t miss your chance to pick up free milk at Gouverneur Elementary this summer!

Harry A. Smithers II appointed District 5 SLC Legislator

by Rachel Hunter

Harry A. Smithers II of Gouverneur was appointed as District 5 Legislator by the St. Lawrence County Board of Legislators at its July 6 full board meeting.

The seat was formerly vacated by Henry Leader of Gouverneur, who resigned effective May 31, 2020 from the District 5 seat following a recommendation from the St. Lawrence County Board of Ethics. In the opinion of the SLC Board of Ethics, a conflict existed requiring Mr. Leader to choose between his role as St. Lawrence County Legislator or as municipal attorney for the local townships (Case and Leader in Gouverneur).

District 4 Legislator William Sheridan (R-Hammond) spoke in the legislative chambers about search committee’s decision to choose Mr. Smithers to fill the vacated seat.

“We interviewed some very fine candidates for this seat, but we chose this gentleman here who is part of the fabric of District 5 and that includes Gouverneur and DePeyster. He has a stake and a gain in that district. The search committee felt that he would serve this legislative body and the people of St. Lawrence County and the people of his district very well,” SLC Legislator Sheridan said.

“Harry is the co-owner and operator of Smithers Tire Service and he’s owned it since 1977 to this present time, and before that he was a seventh grade teacher at Ogdensburg Free Academy, but decided to join the family business – and is the co-owner of that business.

“He was educated right here in the North Country at our schools. He got a BA degree from SUNY Potsdam, and majored in Chemistry and Biology and graduated in 1973. Since then, he’s done 30 hours of post-graduate study at SUNY Potsdam, St. Lawrence, and the College of Saint Rose.

“As far as community service is concerned, he has a lot of community service that goes on. I’ll just touch on a little bit of what he does. He’s been a member of the Fowler Baptist Church since 1981 in an active role. He’s taught Sunday School for 10 years for children, and 20 years for adults. He’s served as a deacon and a trustee for multiple terms. And served from 1993 to 2005 on the Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education. He’s been involved in things like community softball league from 1968 to 1995, performed in church plays, and in community and interfaith choruses. He’s involved in quite a few other things as well.

“I’ll talk to you about his personal life as well. He has been married for 42 years to his wife, Julie. Harry and Julie have four grown children, and he does enjoy gardening and hunting…” Legislator Smithers said he has been a registered Republican for the past 40 years.

“He has a lot of good references,” Legislator Sheridan said. “The first one on the top of my mind was Henry Leader, who was the person who Harry will be taking his seat here. And so that was something that I thought was important that he put Henry Leader as a reference...” Other references listed by Mr. Smithers included Don Schuessler, M.D., Howard Maxson (pastor at Fowler Baptist Church), Rick Newvine (business associate and Fowler Town Board Supervisor), John Dixon (past principal at Gouverneur High School and business relationship), Kathy Felio (friend and associate on church boards).

“He spoke about his political philosophies a little bit…” In Legislator Smither’s Statement of purpose, he said the following: “I have a strong belief in the role of government in our lives – we must maintain an environment of freedom within the guidelines of the law.

“We must serve to protect and defend citizens as to their safety and ability to explore opportunities to succeed…

“Spending should be in accordance with income, in other words a balanced budget…

“While we are created to be equal, we have unique, individual personalities and abilities. This applies to communities as well.”

After giving this “sketch,” Legislator Sheridan also told the SLC Legislators that he has a “good sense of humor.”

A resolution was unanimously approved by all SLC legislators present at the full board meeting. The resolution was by District 1 Legislator James Reagen, District 2 Legislator David Forsythe, District 3 Legislator Joe Lightfoot, District 4 Legislator William Sheridan, District 6 Legislator Larry Denesha, District 8 Legislator Kevin Acres, and District 15 Legislator Rita Curran. It was written as follows: “Whereas, former Legislator Henry Leader, having submitted his resignation to this board effective May 31, 2020, and by virtue thereof the seat from District 5 having been vacated, and

“Whereas, an ad hoc committee of the remaining Republican Legislators has been appointed by the Chair of the Board of Legislators, and

“Whereas, the ad hoc committee has submitted its recommendation to fill the vacancy created to this Board, and

“Whereas, by the wording of Local Law 7 for the Year 1978, this Board is bound to follow that recommendation,

“Now, therefore be it resolved that upon recommendation of the ad hoc committee, Harry A. Smithers II is hereby appointed effective July 6, 2020, to fill the vacancy created by the resignation, and pursuant to Section 42 of the New York State Public Officers Law, that this appointment will expire on December 31, 2020.”

Harry A. Smithers II of Gouverneur then took and signed the oath of office in a special ceremony at the beginning of the July 6 SLC Board of Legislators full board meeting.

Legislator Smithers told the Gouverneur Tribune Press this week that he is looking forward to serving the Gouverneur and DePeyster communities in his newly appointed role on the St. Lawrence County Board of Legislators. In addition to the full board meeting each month, Legislator Smithers will attend the monthly sub-committee meetings (Finance, Services, Operations) and will also be giving county reports to the Town of Gouverneur Council, Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees, and Town of DePeyster Council at their monthly board meetings.

GHS Class of 2020 commencement held at Gouverneur Fairgrounds

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Central School District held the 132nd Gouverneur High School Commencement Ceremony, celebrating the Class of 2020 at the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fairgrounds on Friday, June 26 at 7 p.m.

The Gouverneur Central School District worked to give the GHS Class of 2020 as much of a traditional graduation as possible – even amid the COVID-19 pandemic crisis and its related restrictions. The Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education, GHS faculty and staff filled the grandstand stage while the graduating seniors were seated socially distant on chairs on the grounds behind the grandstand stage. The ceremony was displayed on a 25-foot Jumbotron was positioned to the right of the stage, and the family members in the parked cars behind were encouraged to tune into 89.1 FM to hear the ceremony. Along with GCS School Resource Officer Robert Klimowicz, the Gouverneur Police Department and the New York State Police were on patrol to ensure the safety of all those present.

In advance of the commencement exercises, the graduating seniors donned the traditional academic regalia and were presented with a GHS Class of 2020 facial mask and floral corsage. They also received a purple awareness ribbon lapel pin, which they proceeded to pin on their graduation robes in remembrance of Treyanna Summerville, a GHS senior who was found murdered on June 22 just days before the GHS Class of 2020’s graduation. This was just one of the recognitions that a student committee decided to implement after meeting on June 24 with GCS Superintendent of Schools Lauren French and GHS Principal Cory Wood. The group also decided to create a program insert in recognition of Treyanna. This was later posted on the GCSD Wildcats Facebook page. The student committee also decided that blue flowers would be available on an empty chair near the grandstand stage for the graduates to pickup as they returned to their seats. The position of the chair and the display of the flowers was set up by GCS Dean of Students Chris Marshall.

A slideshow of student photos introduced all those gathered to the GHS Class of 2020 before the commencement ceremony began. Then, as Pomp and Circumstance the GHS Class of 2020 was led to their seat by the GCS Superintendent of Schools Lauren French, GHS Principal Cory Wood. The national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner” was led by GHS senior Taylor Ormasen. All then joined in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

GCS Superintendent of Schools Lauren French then informed those gathered in-person and those watching via the livestream on Facebook that the ceremony consisted of two components – and that the first was to pay recognition to the life of Treyanna Summerville.

GCSD Board of Education President David Fenlong made the following comments: “We gather here tonight for a celebration of great honor and tradition in your life. But that life is sometimes is dotted with tragedies – and our school and our community have experienced such a tragedy. Your senior year was already interrupted by devastating health crisis, and we know it made things very difficult for you. But this week, we know there are things in your life that are even more difficult. More difficult to understand, and more difficult to handle. We want to celebrate Trey’s life with you and remain hopeful and optimistic in what lies ahead together. You have a wonderful graduation here and a future to prepare for, but there is no rush to move on or move forward as we know it will be stressful in just finding time to grieve in this ever-changing world will be hard. So we carved out some time… this time tonight to celebrate Trey what we felt was the best way together, like we always do, like a team, as friends, as a school, and a community. Thank you.”

GCS Superintendent of Schools Lauren French then took to the podium and gave the following address: “In speaking with the 10 students who assisted in putting this program together in honor of Trey, what I was most struck by was their ability to sit in the same room, have different opinions, listen respectfully, politely, and with honesty to all of the voices that were expressed and come to a compromise, which is what you are seeing tonight. They chose the picture of Trey that they wanted to use. They chose the quote that they wanted to have underneath the picture. They asked to have it on blue paper. And in the end, there was a quote from one of the members of the committee that was very significant.

“What’s also very difficult is how to transition between this event, which is a recognition of Trey – and your graduation. And so, I thought if I could do something symbolic for you, it may assist. This is my book of my life. I have 18 of them. I am halfway through the 18th book. Things that are important to me I jot down. I write notes. Some of you are in this book. One of the pages I dedicated to Trey. But the page following that, I have dedicated to your graduation. And I want you to understand that Trey is always in my book. I have written on those pages. I haven’t finished writing – but it is okay for me to turn the page and write graduation. I celebrate tonight. Celebrating graduation does not minimize how much some of you loved Trey. You should not feel guilty for celebrating tonight. You have spent years getting to this point. So, in your mind, what I would like you to do is make a note on that page that says “Trey, I’ll come back.” Turn the page in your mind and say. “I graduate tonight.” To make that happen, please turn either left or right and shout loudly to the person next to you… and you better shout louder than I do: “I’m graduating tonight!” Let me hear it!” Take a few moments sometime today, tonight, the next couple weeks and continue to remember her… but also think that this is your time to celebrate. Thank you.”

GHS Principal Cory Wood then encouraged all to applaud or honk their car horns for the GHS Class of 2020.

“We know you wanted to do that,” he said. “We’ll have more chances to do that tonight. I want to thank you for coming tonight. Good evening… Planning a COVID graduation has been difficult. I am excited that we are able to host this as we are doing it tonight. Our seniors are on stage here together, and we’re going to celebrate them. In order to assist our families, a pre-paid professional quality photo by Gidget Wainwright Photography will be taken of each senior receiving their diploma compliments of the Senior Class Parent Group, and a DVD or a disc drive will be shared also of tonight’s proceedings being recorded by Mobile Graphics Technology. With these points in mind, I ask that you tune in the radio, and enjoy this beautiful evening.”

Three student speakers – Celia Carbone, John Erdman, and Marina Wood – selected from the GHS Class of 2020 Honors Group then addressed the GHS Class of 2020. See related story inside this edition.

GCS Superintendent of Schools Lauren French then took the podium to give her address to the GHS Class of 2020. She inspired the graduates with the following words: “Put yourself out there. Either put yourself out there to learn something, to do something, or to help someone.” After reminiscing about the GHS Class of 2020, she encouraged the graduates to think about all that someone who is 90 or 100 years old has lived through in addition to COVID-19, and to make connections with people. “So, I know it has been difficult… but I one of the things I want you to know is that there are wonderful connections that we make with every single person… Take care of yourself and take care of each other,” Mrs. French said in conclusion.

GCSD Board of Education President David Fenlong then addressed the GHS Class of 2020 and all those in attendance. See related story inside this edition.

A pre-recorded song selection made possible by GHS Music Teachers Renee Powlin, Victor Correa III, and Jenelle Yeoman played as the cameras swept over the GHS Class of 2020.

GHS Principal Cory Wood introduced the GHS Class of 2020, touted their accomplishments and certified to GCS Superintendent of Schools Lauren French and GCSD Board of Education President David Fenlong along with all those present that “each of these students has fulfilled the requirements for graduation in accordance with the guidelines established by New York State Education, The Board of Education at Gouverneur Central School. With great pride, I present the Gouverneur High School Class of 2020.” Great applause sounded and motorists honked their horns at the announcement.

This year, the awards as follows were presented along with the presentation of the graduate’s diploma:

Senior Academic Achievement Awards were presented to following: Celia Carbone, Hailey Clancy, Hillary Cook, Taylor D’Agostino, John Erdman, Austin Fayette, Gracie Manning, Taylor Ormasen, Kate Rushlo, Evan Shampine, and Marina Wood. These seniors made the honor roll every marking period since they began their high school career as ninth grade students. They have earned honor roll status 15 times in the last four years.

Most Improved Student: Brittany LaForty, Elijah Looker, Lisa Marie Lopez-Baez, Hailey Palmer, Jacob Shippee. Outstanding Student: Kurtis Brown, Austin Fayette, Hannah Fuller, Keera Lando, Logan Phillips, Christopher Trejo. These Southwest Tech BOCES Students have displayed outstanding dedication to their vocational program.

The Mariano Pistolesi Memorial Wrestling Scholarship of $500 given in his memory by his family was presented to Tyler Tupper. Mr. Pistolesi was a member of Gouverneur’s first wrestling team in 1934. Mariano Pistolesi was an avid outdoorsman, and a huge wrestling fan. This award is given to a graduating senior of the wrestling team planning a post-secondary education and is based upon dedication, inspiration, and perseverance in the face of adversity.

The William E. Appleby, Jr., Humanities Award of $500 was presented to Shelbie Alguire. This award is given in Mr. Appleby’s memory by his family. He was a gifted teacher, writer, and accomplished musician. He taught English at Gouverneur for over 25 years providing leadership and inspiration to young adults. This award is given to a graduate pursuing post-secondary education in English, music, or the arts.

The Kiwanis Club Scholarship of $500 was presented to Hailey Clancy. This award is given based upon a letter of personal reference, community service, and academic achievement.

The Roger O. Favro Memorial Scholarship of $500 was awarded to Marina Wood. This award is given in memory of Mr. Favro who served his country in the United States Army, held the office of Canton Town Justice, and was a highly respected social studies teacher at Gouverneur for 30 years. The award is given to a graduate who best exemplifies ethical character, civic responsibility, community service, and a sincere appreciation of social studies.

The Faye S. Hopper Scholarship of $500 was presented to Connor Canell. This award honors Mrs. Hopper’s commitment to musical excellence while serving the Gouverneur First United Methodist Church for 62 years as organist and is given annually to a college-bound senior who has demonstrated musical excellence and shared the gift of music with the school and community.

The Elizabeth Kirchner Gleason Scholarship of $500 was presented to Shacoria Jackson. This award is given to a graduate planning to continue formal study of a visual art field in college. It is given by retired Gouverneur art teacher Elizabeth Gleason in memory of Lillian Tood and Diana Lynde, deceased Gouverneur art teachers.

The Key Club Scholarship of $1,000 was presented to Kayleigh Orr. This scholarship, sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Gouverneur, is given to a graduating Key Club member who has shown exemplary leadership in carrying out the club’s agenda.

The New York State Academic Excellence Awards of $500 per year, based upon specific Regents exam scores, were presented to Evan Shampine, John Erdman, Daniel Leslie. Taylor Ormasen was awarded $1,500 per year.

The following members of the GHS Class of 2020 picked up a diploma on the grandstand stage during the commencement: Allen Abar, Shelbie Alguire, Shyanne Andrasko, Nathan Ayen, David Baker, Leeann Barbarito, Amelia Beaver, Kurtis Brown, Emily Burgess, Connor Canell, Celia Carbone, Jacob Carvel, Hailey Clancy, Hillary Cook, Jacob Corcoran, Katlyn Coutermarsh, Jaycee Cronk, Dean Crook, Taylor D'Agostino, Jenna Davis, Stefan Delity, Chloe' Dockstader, Hunter Donaldson, Xander Dowling, Nicholas Embry, John Erdman, Caleb Farr, Cullen Fawcett, Austin Fayette, Francesca Flores, Hannah Fuller, Mariah Fuller, Megan Fuller, Logan Garrison, Emily Geer, Lily Griffith, Maureen Griffith, Airian Hadfield, Xavier Hall, Taylor Hance, Logan Hardy, Alexis Hays, Ariana Hays, Mason Henderson, Kayla Hocking, Lindsey Houghton, Cailyn House-Baillargeon, Haydn House-Hall, Bailey Hurd, Erin Infield, Steven Jackson Jr., Shacoria Jackson, Tessa Jenne, Christian Kingsbury, Brittany Laforty, Keera Lando, Corinne LaPierre, David LaVeck, Daniel Leslie, Haley Leslie, Elijah Looker, Lisa Marie Lopez-Baez, Logan Malaney, Gracie Manning, John Martin III, Gage Mashaw, Neil Matott, James McCollum, Charles McDougall Jr., Emma McDougall, Jade McIntosh, Michael Morrow, Taylor Ormasen, Kayleigh Orr, Ashley Otto, Hailey Palmer, Johnathin Patchin, Katelynn Petrie, Logan Phillips, Tanner Pignone, Hailey Rheome, Makayla Rickett, Alissa Rivera, Chancler Rowe, Kate Rushlo, Alexus Sawyer, Evan Shampine, Jacob Shippee, Mitchell Shippee, Alexis Simmons, Halie Simmons, Riley Simmons, Kelsee Soper, Rochelle Stamper, Alexis Stevens, Riley Storrin, Cayden Stowell, Hunter Stowell, Christopher Trejo, Tyler Tupper, Samantha Turner, Mitchell Tyler, Brett VanSant, Jacob Walker, Kayla Way, Logan Way, Breyden Wicks, Carter Wilson, Marina Wood, Austin Worster.

All then applauded and motorists honked their car horns for the GHS Class of 2020. The senior slideshow was presented on the Jumbotron, so the class could watch it together. The Alma Mater Song was then song by all those in attendance, and GHS Principal Cory Wood gave these final words: “Okay graduates, there’s not more to say. You guys have been through a lot. As you leave, remember what started here. Take it forth. Live the life, live the lives that you talked about living…” The GHS Class of 2020 then observed the changing of tassel ceremony and threw their mortarboard in the air in a triumphant gesture. The recessional was then held, and the students made their way to the senior parking lot. GHS Class of 2020 members then chose to walk to the village park to honor the memory of Treyanna Summerville at the night’s conclusion.

All members of the Gouverneur Central School family are devastated by the loss of our scholar Treyanna Summerville. Additional discussions are being led by a group of Trey's peers to continue to develop avenues of remembrances. The administrative team remains in contact with counsel and legal authorities to be mindful that all legal processes need to be followed to protect the investigation.

Justice for Trey: Gouverneur community holds candlelight prayer vigil for murder victim

by Rachel Hunter

A heartbroken Gouverneur community on Monday, June 22 cried out “Justice for Trey” at the candlelight prayer vigil as hundreds gathered in the Gouverneur Village Park to mourn the loss of 18-year-old Treyanna Summerville.

As of press time on Tuesday, the Gouverneur Tribune Press confirmed that a 13-year-old unidentified suspect was charged with second-degree murder in the ongoing homicide investigation into Treyanna’s death. The arrest of the 13-year-old took place at New York State Troop B- Gouverneur Station, 1005 US Highway 11, Gouverneur at 3:20 p.m. on Monday. District Attorney Gary Pasqua said the suspect was arraigned in the youth part of St. Lawrence County Court on Monday afternoon. Pasqua wouldn’t comment whether Summerville’s death was the result of a domestic incident because it is the subject of an ongoing homicide investigation.

Anyone with information or tips for law enforcement is encouragement to contact their local police agency or the State Police to report relevant information, anonymously or otherwise, so that appropriate action may be taken. State police spent all day Monday investigating the Gouverneur High School student’s death at 135 Rowley Street. The first 911 call came in at 3 a.m.

Treyanna Summerville’s identity was released to news outlets Tuesday morning after authorities could notify family members of her death. Her identity was, however, widely known and spread on social media, throughout the Gouverneur community, and at the candlelight prayer vigil as the community gathered to mourn her loss.

The candlelight prayer vigil was scheduled to commence at 8 p.m. Traffic and pedestrian control was handled by the Gouverneur Police Department and St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office. The Village of Gouverneur Department of Public Work was also in the Gouverneur Village Park. New York State Police were still investigating the scene on Rowley Street at the time, which is why it was moved from its original location at 135 Rowley Street, Gouverneur.

Gouverneurians arrived with candles and signs to place at the base of the tree adjacent to the Gouverneur Village Park. The candles were lit in Treyanna’s memory. Tears flowed as Gouverneur community members prayed and remembered a life taken too soon. In addition, for those who did not bring candles, tapered candles, were passed out by Jessica Miller of Route 11 Diner as Gouverneurians entered the park. The candlelight prayer vigil lasted about an hour, and culminated with the singing of “Amazing Grace.”

Treyanna Summerville, 18, was a member of the GHS Class of 2020 and was only a few short days away from walking across the stage to receive her high school diploma. The GHS Class of 2020 came out in strong numbers as the grieved over the loss of one of their own. Papers filled with messaged were put in an Angel Jar and will be placed on Treyanna Summerville’s seat at the GHS Class of 2020’s Commencement.

On Tuesday morning, Gouverneur Central School District issued this statement: “We are heartbroken over the tragic death of Treyanna Summerville and join the Gouverneur Central community in mourning her loss. We understand our students and staff will have many questions and strong emotions as they grieve. We have assembled our Crisis Intervention Team, made up of a professionals trained to help with the needs of students, parents, and school personnel at difficult times such as this. Counselors are available to meet virtually with students as needed. Please call 315-287-1900 and your request will be directed to a counselor. In looking for comfort I found this Korean Proverb – When a child dies, You bury the child in your Heart. Treyanna, you are safely in my heart. We are working with a committee of students to create a fitting recognition for Treyanna at graduation. These details will be shared when finalized.”

Southwest Career and Education Center also released the following statement: “We join together with the Gouverneur community, our students and faculty in mourning the tragic, heart wrenching loss of Treyanna Summerville. Our staff is here and available to all. We will be joining the supports GHS is putting into place for everyone and by your side always.”

Further details will be reported when they are made available to the Gouverneur Tribune Press.

Gouverneur- Richville Christian Fellowship Offers Drive-Thru Food Pantry

by Jessyca Cardinell

A Drive-Thru Food Pantry has opened at 71 Smith Street, Gouverneur, operated by the Gouverneur-Richville Christian Fellowship Church, to help those in the Gouverneur-area who are in need of groceries. The distributions will be held on the second Thursday of the month from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and the fourth Saturday of the month from 9 to 11 a.m.

“Our food pantry just did our first food distribution just last month,” said April Sochia, a member of the church. “We started by delivering boxes to Cambray Terrace and Courts on May 27.” On June 11, the first drive-thru food distribution was held at the church’s 71 Smith Street location.

The church felt, as a whole, that there was a burden to reach those in the community who are in need of food.

“Bob Dale was instrumental in getting the ball rolling before I jumped on board,” Mrs. Sochia said. “I am running the food pantry with the support of my church and family. One night at dinner we were talking with our children about the undertaking of running a food pantry and they all had such a vision for helping others. It was inspiring!” said Mrs. Sochia, who stated her children have been with her during this journey as there are truck deliveries as well as setting up and organizing the building.

“When our church merged back together in Richville that left our Gouverneur building vacant. We have been waiting for an opportunity to use that building to reach needs in the community. Having a food pantry is an awesome way to do that,” said Mrs. Sochia

The quality food is being ordered from the Food Bank of Central New York, so families are sure to be sent away with a variety of nutritious food.

When it comes to the community support, Mrs. Sochia stated the response has been great.

“This community has been incredibly supportive! We have had refrigerators and freezers donated to us, as well as monetary donations. When we were receiving our first food truck delivery, Wayne Scott from Reliable Towing stopped and offered to help us get food right to our building. That has been a tremendous blessing. We are so grateful for the support from the community. You can find us on Facebook at GCF Compassion Outreach,” said Mrs. Sochia for those interested in more details and updates.

As well as support from the community, the food pantry has also received support from larger retailers including Potsdam Lowes, who donated a brand new refrigerator.

“That was a tremendous blessing. A friend of a friend is friends with the manager at Lowes and had asked if they could help us out to get a refrigerator. We were hoping for a discount, but he said that they would be happy to donate one to us! We have had three of our refrigerators donated to us,” said Mrs. Sochia with great excitement.

Be sure to follow the food pantry Facebook page and keep up with all the wonderful things the food pantry is sure to bring to the community. Fantastic job Gouverneur-Richville Christian Fellowship on your fantastic contribution to your community!

Donations are always accepted at P.O. Box 126, Richville, NY 13681. Questions can be sent to gcfcompassion@gmail.com and (315) 355-7506.

Grace Food Pantry set to re-open on June 25

by Rachel Hunter

Grace Food Pantry Founder and Christian Life Fellowship Pastor Robert LaVeck has announced the physical re-opening for the Grace Food Pantry will be on Thursday, June 25.

The Grace Food Pantry has been in operation since 1999 in the basement of the Christian Life Fellowship Church, 52 Church St., Gouverneur, under the direction of Pastor Robert LaVeck. For the past 21 years, the mission of the Grace Food Pantry has always been about more than just food – providing for the physical needs and spiritual concerns of the North Country community as well. It closed for a couple weeks at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, and then began serving the North Country community on an appointment-only basis. Now, the Grace Food Pantry is look forward to re-opening its doors to the North Country community.

In order to guarantee personal distancing space in the Grace Food Pantry, a volunteer will sit outside the food pantry doors to regulate foot-traffic flow. Pastor LaVeck told the Gouverneur Tribune Press this week: “In Grace Food Pantry, masks will be worn and personal distances will be regulated,” Pastor LaVeck said. “There are hand sanitation stations every six feet.” He said there are about 15 volunteers that are eager to serve North Country residents, and that social distancing between the volunteers will not be an issue due to the tables inside the Grace Food Pantry.

Pastor LaVeck also told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that there is plenty of food and baby products available. Due to weekly supply trips to receive donations from the United Way in Watertown, Pastor LaVeck said there is plenty of baby food, diapers, wet wipes, and more for local families in need.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, the Grace Food Pantry was meeting the needs of anywhere from 1,000 to 1,500 people each month. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic crisis Pastor LaVeck said that the Grace Food Pantry has received several generous contributions from local businesses, nonprofit agencies, and community members to assist in their mission. But help is still needed. For more information on how to donate, call Pastor LaVeck at (315) 287-7656.

Sunday Morning Worship services at 10:30 a.m. have physically re-opened at Christian Life Fellowship Church. In accordance with the 25 percent capacity ruling from NYS Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced last on Saturday, Pastor LaVeck said that up to 30 people could attend. He also told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that the church’s services on Facebook were receiving 40-60 views per week, and that he would continue posting them on a weekly basis. He added that the re-opening of the church was done in a careful manner, and that everyone in attendance will continue to wear face masks and will be seated six feet apart. Hand sanitizer in spray bottles will be made available to everyone in attendance.

For more information, call (315) 287-7656.

Gouverneur High School recognizes Honors Group 2020

Gouverneur High School is pleased to recognize an Honors Group rather than class valedictorian and salutatorian. To become eligible for the Honors Group, one needs to have a Grade Point Average of 90 or above for 3 ½ years of high school. This year, Gouverneur Central has 16 members in the Class Of 2020 Honors Group.

Shelbie Alguire

Shelbie is the daughter of Brayton and Dana Alguire. She has been a part of National Honor Society, Tri-M Music Honor Society, high school musicals, and orchestra. She enjoys art and music and is an active volunteer within the community who enjoys helping others. Shelbie plans to attend SUNY Potsdam in the fall to major in biology and to pursue a career as a physician assistant.

Celia Marie Carbone

Celia is the daughter of Matthew Carbone and Lisa Carbone. While in high school, she was the National Honor Society president, vice president of Key Club, and stage manager for musicals. She participated as a member of the varsity golf and Whiz Quiz teams. She received first place in the Patriot’s Pen essay and was awarded the Wells College 21st Century Leadership Award. Celia plans to attend University at Buffalo to major in psychology. She also plans to attain a PhD and become a clinical psychologist.

Hailey Clancy

Hailey is the daughter of Patrick and Shelley Clancy. Throughout high school, she has been a three-season athlete participating in JV soccer, varsity cross country and indoor and outdoor track and field teams. Hailey was also a member of choir, National Honor Society, a captain of the cross-country team, as well as a scholar athlete all four years. In the fall, Hailey plans to attend Elmira college to major in nursing with a minor in Spanish. She plans to join the cross-country team and possibly the track and field team. She is considering continuing her education to become a nurse practitioner.

Hillary Cook

Hillary is the daughter of Peter and Barbara Cook. A three-sport athlete through high school, she has also been a member of National Honor Society, Varsity Club, Student Senate, and vice president of her class since sophomore year and will cherish these moments, experiences, and people for a lifetime. In the fall, Hillary plans to attend Monroe Community College on a pathway toward becoming a dental hygienist.

Taylor D’Agostino

Taylor is the daughter of Mr. Vincent D’Agostino and Mrs. Lori Gagnon. Throughout high school, she has participated in JV soccer, JV and varsity softball, varsity indoor track, and cheerleading, receiving the Scholar Athlete Award each season, as well as the Athlete of Distinction Award for cheerleading. She also participated in Varsity Club and was a photographer for yearbook. She has been in the top 10 of her class with high honors/academic excellence each quarter. She was a member of the National Junior Honor Society and nominated to participate in the HORIZONS camp at Clarkson University for three years. She has attended many seminars for the empowerment and leadership of women and took summer classes at St. Lawrence University to receive extra credits. Taylor has earned 35 college credits through Syracuse University Project Advance. In the fall, Taylor plans to attend SUNY Plattsburgh to get a master’s degree in nursing with a minor in Spanish and become a pediatric nurse practitioner.

John Erdman

John is the son of Daniel and Andrea Erdman. During high school, he has participated in varsity soccer, outdoor track, cross-country and indoor track. He is Class of 2020 treasurer, National Honor Society parliamentarian, and Varsity Club treasurer. John also achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts. He plans to attend Clarkson University to study aeronautical engineering. John’s career goal is to design and fly planes for commercial, military, and/or public use.

Austin Fayette

Austin is the son of Dustin and Wanda Fayette. Throughout high school, he has accomplished many dreams and goals. Enjoying hands-on activities, he decided to pursue agricultural classes, helping him learn about the outdoors. He participated in trap shooting for two years, receiving the All State High Average Award in the spring of 2019. Austin attended the metalworking program at Southwest Tech, which offered him many certifications and opportunities. After high school, Austin plans to join the workforce and is interested in attending the Georgia Lineman School in the fall of 2021.

Lily Griffith

Lily is the daughter of Garth Lawrence and Lynn Griffith. Throughout high school, she was involved in band and participated in high school musicals as stage crew prop manager. She was also an active member of FFA and attended many events involved with leadership activities and beneficial community service work, such as donating to food pantries. Lily plans to attend college at SUNY Canton to earn a bachelor degree in nursing and pursue her dream of helping people.

Gracie Manning

Gracie is the daughter of Justin and Melissa Terpstra of Gouverneur, and Greg Manning of Alexandria Bay. She played JV and varsity volleyball throughout high school. She has been a member of National Honor Society since 10th grade and active in St. James Youth group. Gracie plans to attend Franciscan University of Steubenville in Ohio to major in psychology and to become a faith-based counselor after completing a master’s degree.

Emma McDougall

Emma is the daughter of Jamie and Sandy McDougall. Throughout high school, she has participated on the yearbook staff, thespian society, select strings, and the high school musical. This year, she was inducted into National Honor Society. Emma is also active in 4-H where she serves as vice president and has been a part of many community service activities. She plans to attend Keuka College to major in forensic psychology and become a criminal profiler.

Jade McIntosh

Jade is the daughter of Dave and Julie McIntosh. Throughout high school, she has taken advanced classes as well as college classes. She was also an athlete throughout high school, playing soccer, softball and indoor track, receiving the Academic Achievement Award for each varsity sport, as well as the Athlete of Distinction Award. She also participated in travel soccer teams and a travel softball team. In addition, Jade held two part-time jobs. In the fall, she plans to attend SUNY Canton in the dual degree program for nursing where she will obtain an associate’s degree followed by a bachelor’s degree. Jade plans to also earn a master’s to become an orthopedic nurse practitioner.

Taylor Ormasen

Taylor is the daughter of Nickolas and Amber Ormasen. In high school, she was treasurer of yearbook, thespian society, high school musical, high school band, CODA, and National Honor Society. Taylor was a member of Chamber Singers, sang the national anthem at football games and other sporting events, and attended All County chorus in grades 5-11. She played the tenor saxophone in band ensemble, jazz band, and pep band and participated in Whiz Quiz and Robotics. She took accelerated courses, AP classes, and credits through Syracuse University Project Advance. Taylor spent her senior year at The Clarkson School, an early college program through Clarkson University. She was both an elected representative and secretary for The Clarkson School Council as well as chief yearbook editor. She was also a member of the highly selective University Honors Program, where she performed astrophysics research and served as the Service Representative and Class of 2023 Representative on the Steering Board. She was an Ambassador for the Honors and early college programs. Taylor made president's list with 4.0's both semesters, and was honored at the University Recognition Award Ceremony. This fall, Taylor will major in Political Science and Pre-Law at Columbia University in New York City.

Kate Rushlo

Kate is the daughter of Marc and Jan Rushlo. Throughout high school, she has participated in volleyball and has been a member of the National Honor Society. She plans to attend SUNY Potsdam to major in biology and pursue a career in the medical field.

Evan Shampine

Evan is the son of Ivan and Barbara Shampine. While in high school he participated in volleyball, indoor/outdoor track, and the high school musical. Evan plans to attend University at Buffalo to major in biochemistry and education, to become a high school science teacher.

Samantha Turner

Samantha is the daughter of William and Dawn Turner. Throughout high school, she played volleyball. She received the Sportsmanship Award and the Section X Athlete of Distinction Award for grades received while on the team. Samantha plans to attend SUNY Potsdam to become a history teacher, a career she chose hoping to help students learn and enjoy school.

Marina Camille Wood

Marina is the daughter of Cory and Sarah Wood. Throughout high school, Marina has been president of the Class of 2020. As a junior, Marina was elected secretary of National Honor Society and secretary of Varsity Club. This past year, she was elected as vice president of National Honor Society, president of Varsity Club, and also served on the Board of Education as a student representative. Marina was very involved in varsity athletics, moving up as a freshman to varsity basketball and varsity softball playing at this level for three years. Due to an injury in the fall, she was unable to play these sports her final season. Marina graduates with 38 college credits. She will attend Syracuse University to major in Political Science and International Relations at the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs and then plans to attend law school.

Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 parking lot maxed out for Inaugural Drive-In Bingo

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 parking lot was maxed out to a capacity crowd for its inaugural Drive-In Bingo on Wednesday, May 20.

It was organized amid the COVID-19 pandemic crisis to allow Northern New Yorkers a chance to play bingo – at a time when many facilities across New York State have been closed to gamers since March. This includes the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035, which was holding weekly bingo sessions on Wednesdays up until the COVID-19 shutdown mandate of all bars and non-essential businesses by Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

The idea to host the drive-in bingo came from Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 Esteemed Leading Knight Krista Wainwright, who said she spent at least a couple hours each night, for more than two weeks, in preparation of the event, copying papers, making plans, getting bingo boards together, etc. In advance of the event, ELK Wainwright said she had a grand total of 305 bingo player boards ready – and hoped she would have enough.

The Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 went through many approval procedures in order to hold the event. On Wednesday afternoon, starting at 2:30 p.m., vehicles starting filling the Gouverneur Elks Lodge parking lot and it hit max capacity by 5 p.m. – an hour before the first bingo game was to begin. The vehicles were parked end to end, with six-foot distance between each row. The Gouverneur Elks were able to get 100 cars in the parking lot, and sold 224 bingo player packets during the inaugural event.

At seeing the filled-to-capacity parking lot, Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 Exalted Ruler Gresford Speid said, “This is historic.” He explained that people throughout the North Country have wanted something to do, to do something beyond the four walls of their own home, and one way they could do that is to attend the inaugural Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 Drive-In Bingo.

When motorists arrived to the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 on Wednesday afternoon, they all entered the first driveway at the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035. There they met Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 Esteemed Leading Knight Krista Wainwright who was busy at the Gouverneur Elks Lodge pavilion distributing bingo player packets with assistance from Lodge Secretary Jimmy Jackson (PER, PSVP, PDDGER), Lodge Treasurer Todd Menard, House Committee Chair Sandy Pryce, and North Central District #6240 Past State President Timothy Kelly.

The motorists were then directed to Gouverneur Elks serving as parking attendants, for further instruction and to await for the 6 p.m. bingo start time. Gouverneur Elk volunteers sold 50-50 raffle tickets. Food was available for all those in attendance, and paddle signs were given to get the attention of the Gouverneur Elks serving the vehicles. The meal options were quickly served to the vehicles.

As the bingo caller, North Central District #6240 State Vice President Roderick Pryce, Past Exalted Ruler of Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035, welcomed all those in attendance and encouraged everyone to abide by the set social distancing guidelines.

“We don’t want to get shut down,” he said.

SVP Pryce reminded everyone to wear a face mask when they left their vehicle, and to keep a six-foot clearance between persons. All were told to use the tape on the ground as a guide as they lined up in front of the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 to go to the bathroom. The area was policed by Gouverneur Elk Richard Wainwright.

At 6 p.m., as the drive-in bingo got underway, Gouverneur Elks were sent all over the parking lot to repeat the bingo call, so that no one would miss each announcement. In order to accomplish this, the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 used microphones connected via Bluetooth technology. As soon as the first ball popped up and SVP Pryce called it out loud, the thrill and anticipation of a potential bingo win excited all those in attendance at the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 Inaugural Drive-In Bingo. It took little time at all for the first two car honks of the night – the signal that someone had found a bingo! Gouverneur Elks then verified the numbers, and awarded the prizes after each game throughout the night.

The 50-50 raffle prize of $600 went to Rita Clarke of Russell. She donated $200 back to the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035. The Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 expressed great gratitude at the gesture.

At the end of the evening all those in attendance were released by parking attendants out of the far driveway exit, handing the bingo player boards back to the Gouverneur Elks in the process. A great time was had by all those in attendance, and many have said that they look forward to future event. Participants came from all over New York State from the Adirondacks and below Syracuse to participate in the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2025 Inaugural Drive-In Bingo.

ELK Wainwright said there are a few improvements the Gouverneur Elks are going to make to make future Drive-In Bingo events better for everyone involved. The first lane by the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 will be reserved for those needing handicap-access, so they have better access to bathroom facilities. The Gouverneur Elks will also be changing up their meal options, but food will still be available. ELK Wainwright is also looking for a way to more easily distribute the bingo player cards to those in attendance.

ELK Wainwright announced that the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 was hosting its second Drive-In Bingo Event on Wednesday, June 3 on May 21. In a little over 24 hours of publicity on social media, over 300 people called ELK Wainwright and registered to attend. No more registrations are being taken for this date. Future drive-in bingo dates are as follows: July 8 (due to the Fourth of July holiday), August 5 and September 2.

For more information on the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035, check out its Facebook page.

About 180 pounds of marijuana seized after traffic stop in DeKalb

by Rachel Hunter

SLC Deputy Greg Anderson pictured with about 180 pounds of marihuana seized at a traffic stop along US Highway 11 in the Town of DeKalb on May 13. (photo provided by the SLC Sheriff’s Office)

About 180 pounds of marijuana with an estimated street value of $360,000 was seized by St. Lawrence County Sheriff Deputies on Wednesday, May 11. It was found to be in the possession of Brandy J. Fisher, 26, of Moira, and Damon L. Etienne, 22, of Hogansburg. Deputies charged Fisher and Etienne with Criminal Possession of Marihuana 1st Degree, a class C Felony, following a traffic stop on US Highway 11 in the Town of DeKalb.

Fisher was also charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 7th, an A Misdemeanor, as she was found to be in possession of a small amount of cocaine.

Fisher and Etienne were arraigned by Honorable James Phillips of Morristown Town Court and released on their own recognizance. Fisher and Etienne are to appear in Town of DeKalb Court at a later date. Deputies were assisted by US Border Patrol.

The investigating officer was SLC Deputy Greg Anderson. The SLC Sheriff’s Office reported that Deputy Anderson was named Deputy of the Year in 2019 and “continues to strive to work hard for the people of St. Lawrence County. We are proud of Deputy Anderson and look forward to what his future brings. Great work!”