Gouverneur Community Wide Rummage Sales on this weekend

by Rachel Hunter

The 2021 Gouverneur Community Wide Rummage Sales are on this weekend (June 4-6). The Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce recently moved the annual event to the first weekend in June after hearing from community members that they wanted it to be held earlier due to all the autumn obligations.

The response has been tremendous, and with other towns and villages in St. Lawrence County holding their own community wide rummage sales this weekend, there has never been a better time to get your rummage sale fix!

The Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce reminds the Gouverneur community to practice COVID-19 protocols, social distancing of six feet and wearing masks while visiting rummage sales, especially those held in enclosed spaces like a garage.

All Gouverneur residents hosting rummage sales are reminded that it is against local law to put rummage sale signage on any curb, sidewalk, pole, post, tree, rock, fence, hydrant, bridge, another sign, or other surface located on, over, or across any public street, right-of-way, property, or thoroughfare. To serve the local community, the Gouverneur Tribune Press has opened up its classified section this week to all rummage sale advertisements. While the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce is not creating a map this year, rummage sale listings can be found in this week’s edition of the Gouverneur Tribune Press!

Don’t miss your chance to snag some great deals this weekend at the 2021 Gouverneur Community Wide Rummage Sales – Friday, June 4 through Sunday, June 6. Hours vary at each participating rummage sale location. For more information about the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce, visit gouverneurchamber.net.

Memorial Day 2021: Gouverneur remembers those who gave the ultimate sacrifice

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur community gathered together on May 31 during the 2021 Gouverneur Memorial Day Observance to pay tribute to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. The annual observance was hosted by the James Maloy American Legion No. 65 in conjunction with the Silas Wainwright VFW Post No. 6338 in Gouverneur.

The 2021 Gouverneur Memorial Day Parade lined up on Rock Island Road at 9:30 a.m. Traffic control was handled by local law enforcement. At the 10 a.m. start time, the parade turned right onto Route 11 past the Gouverneur Village Park where the Gouverneur community waited in great expectation – donned in patriotic gear and waving American flags.

The Parade Marshal was Ed Ramos.

The parade was led by Village of Gouverneur Chief of Police Laurina Greenhill in a Gouverneur Police Department car. Next was the color guard from the James Maloy American Legion Post 65 and Silas Wainwright VFW Post 6338. In addition the veterans, there were also auxiliary members as well as the Sons of the American Legion. Both the American Legion and the VFW had floats in the parade.

Local dignitaries also participated in the parade, including Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall, Village of Gouverneur Deputy Mayor Charles Newvine, Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr., Town of Gouverneur Councilman Curran Wade. Town of Gouverneur Deputy Supervisor Eldon Conklin, Village of Gouverneur Clerk/Treasurer Barbara Finnie among others also were in attendance at the observance.

Also in attendance were the Gouverneur Cub Scout Troop 21, Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035, and Civil Air Patrol of the Ft. Drum Composite Squadron. A crowd favorite was the appearance by Marble City Bomber Softball, a traveling 10u, 12u, 14u, and 16u girls softball organization dedicated to providing girls in NNY the opportunity to play competitive ASA softball. The youth threw candy to those along the parade route, and many community members along Main Street scurried to pick up the free candy during the parade.

There were also tactical military vehicles brought to the Gouverneur Memorial Parade by the NY Army National Guard.

The Gouverneur Fire Department also brought Engine-18 and Truck 2 to the parade. The Gouverneur Rescue Squad brought it’s a-175 vehicle. Also in attendance were DeKalb-Richville Fire District’s Engine 12 truck and Oxbow Fire Department’s Fighting 33 truck.

Also in attendance was the St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office and the New York State Police.

The U.S. Navy Wreath was presented at the Route 11 bridge over the Oswegatchie to salute the dead. It was conducted by Mike Webster and Mike Knowlton. The parade then turned left on Hailesboro St. to the Riverside Cemetery where the 2021 Gouverneur Memorial Day Ceremony was to be held.

The Master of Ceremonies Gloria Weldon welcomed all in attendance. The invocation was conducted by American Legion Auxiliary President Deanna Cline, and the Pledge of Allegiance was hosted by local cub scouts from Gouverneur Cub Scout Troop 21, followed by the national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

Master of Ceremonies Gloria Weldon then conducted the acknowledgement of local dignitaries, including St. Lawrence County Legislator District 5 Harry A. Smithers II (R-Gouverneur), St. Lawrence County Legislator District 6 Larry Denesha (R-DeKalb), Gouverneur Village Mayor Ronald McDougall, Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustee members, Gouverneur Police Chief Laurina Greenhill, Town of Gouverneur Supervisor David Spilman, Jr., Town of Fowler Supervisor Rick Newvine, Town of Macomb Supervisor Steve Burke, Town of Rossie Supervisor Harry Turnbull.

Bagpipe selections, including “Amazing Grace,” were performed by Jeff Forsyth of Antwerp.

Master of Ceremonies Gloria Weldon then introduced the guest speaker, Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ronald McDougall.

In his address, Mayor McDougall said the following: “It’s a great day to be an American. Somebody mentioned that to me a little while ago, and yeah, it is. There is no question about that. We’ve had our controversies recently and we have our history of controversies. But it is a great day to be an American. For 245 years or so, it has always been a great day to be an American – not just today.

“I was advised to talk about Memorial Day as I remember it… Better known as Decoration Day to some, when I was a child, I remember the local parades. I lived in Waddington… We remembered the World War I veterans. The reason I am stumbling a bit is they seemed so old. But in the reality, when I looked in the mirror this morning, I look just like they did as I was growing up in the early ‘50s. That’s the way I remember that…

“Yes, there was some remembrance on Memorial Day with family. But then I got older, as a teenager in the Vietnam era, and I was a Hawk, in favor of the war. I was in favor of justice and the war and defending ourselves across the globe, no matter where or when. And of course, at that time, it was Vietnam…”

Mayor McDougall then remembered a former classmate at Madrid-Waddington Central School and former co-worker, PFC Larry Edward Christie, who passed away on March 27, 1969 in Vietnam. Mayor McDougall told the crowd gathered that he had a paradigm shift as reality struck and he realized the definition of sacrifice. He said he still remembers the day that his mother called him to inform him that a United States Marines vehicle was parked in front of the Christie home. “I knew ultimately what that message was more than likely,” Mayor McDougall said, explaining that two dress Marines and a priest arrived at the home. “For anybody who knows, it has been the same for decades, centuries. When the military comes to the mother’s house or the spouse’s house, it is usually not good news. And on that day, Arvilla Christie became a Gold Star Mother. So that day, even a small place like Waddington … even smaller than Gouverneur… Vietnam had come home, for sure.

“PFC Larry Edward Christie, a Marine, was born on October 7, 1949. He was two weeks younger than me. He died on March 27, 1969. And yes, his remains were found. Not only was he a teenager, but also a volunteer. He did not get drafted. He also left a widow, Rita, and an infant daughter. Supreme sacrifice in Waddington on that day in March, 53 years ago.

“For St. Lawrence County there is actually 26 deceased – one from Gouverneur, Raymond Lee Cook. He was in the Army. He was born in 1945, and his remains were found as well. Out of the 26 fatalities, there is one MIA, Kenneth Frank Backus. He was an Air Force Captain. He was born in 1938 from Pyrities, and his remains were not found. So, PFC Christie and 25 others from St. Lawrence County were added to the full amount in the Vietnam War. For those who remember, there were north of 50,000 – significant to say the least, no question about that.

“Yes, Memorial Day has been commercialized. We’ve gone to the fifth Monday whenever it falls in May, but nevertheless we recognize it. This is my 53rd year of remembering Larry, for a few minutes on Memorial Day. Waterloo was declared by President Johnson and agreed to by Congress to be the first Memorial Day or Decoration Day celebration. They had a community wide celebration versus some other parts of the country that just had something at the cemetery – something like this.

“Since 1969, I’ve been more of a cautious Hawk, which includes two decades of a war soon to conclude in Afghanistan. Some people say, “Why?” How quickly can you forget? It hasn’t been quite two decades. How can you forget that we were attacked on September 1, 2001. What choice did we have? I know it has been difficult, and I know some people in NNY made the ultimate sacrifice. But what were we to do? Those killers attacked us based in Afghanistan. They didn’t care what race you were. They didn’t care what country you were from. They didn’t care what religion you were. They were just out to kill people and send a message to the rest of the world, starting with the No. 1 country, the United States of America… We should never forget that…

“I’ve had several calls throughout this COVID time. A short call was scheduled at the last minute. It was a nice spring day. I decided to take it on my cell and come over here to the cemetery and walk around a little bit… A lot of sites were not marked like they are today, it was obvious that we have a lot of veterans in this cemetery. There’s no question about that… Through all our cemeteries, you will see centuries of people who served this great nation. You are going to hear Taps in a few minutes, and when you hear Taps, I’ll be thinking of Larry… And I ask each one of you to think of a lost one, relative or friend. Everyone here has some. This is a military community. It is the largest community in St. Lawrence County closely associated with Fort Drum 10th Mountain Division. Think about that.

“God bless our military, past, present and of course our future. If democracy is to survive in this country, for this country, we need a strong military. God bless you and God bless America. Thank you.”

The Presentation of Ribbons was then hosted with escort assistance by the Civil Air Patrol and local cub scouts. The ribbons were placed on the memorial wreaths as follows: Donald Payne (WWI), Bill Randall (WWII), Jacob Little Sr. (Korea), Ronald Hartle (Vietnam), Michael Knowlton (Panama, Desert Storm), Mathew Billings (Bosnia), John Holt (Somalia/Haiti), Roland Roderick (Afghanistan), John Holt (Iraq), Gerald Barker (POW/MIA), Nicole Shippee (Womens Veterans Memorial), Jason Carvel (American Legion Post 65), Deanna Cline (American Legion Ladies Auxiliary), John Holt (Gouverneur VFW Post 6338), Jeff Platt (Gouverneur VFW Auxiliary), Ruth Mead (Gold Star Mothers), Lynda Andrews (Daughters of the American Revolution), Mark Jenkins (Sons of the American Legion).

James Maloy American Legion Post 65 Commander Jason Carvel then gave the last roll call, listing the deceased American Legion and VFW members. They are as follows:

American Legion Post 65 Members: Gerald Elliott, Jerry Cornell, James Abrantes, Edward Cousino, and Gary Mott.

VFW Post Members: James Williamson, Gregory Dritschel, Richard McCarthy, Richard McCormick, Robert Thornton, Gordon Mandigo, Donald McIntosh, Erwin Hamilton.

American Legion Auxiliary Member Kathy Davis.

VFW Auxiliary Members: Helen Balance, Leona Kelsey, Alma Rumble, Marilyn Bresett, Loueen Brasie, Zelphia McIntosh, Desiree Bales, Kristie Smith, Joseph Wing, Linda Gardner, Agnes Marchione, Linda LaBlanc, Gloria Scott Johnson, Martina Facey, Annette Meade, Alice Patton, Viola Fukes, Alyce Sullivan.

American Legion Sons Members: Darrell Isereau and Joe Hunter.

Taps and Echo were performed by Gouverneur Central students Jack Schroeder and Liberty Bush.

“God Bless The USA” by Lee Greenwood was broadcasted over the loudspeakers. When the song cut short due to technological issues, the crowd took the opportunity to finish it in proud, patriotic style.

The benediction was then given by VFW Auxiliary Chaplain Ruth Mead.

As the ceremony came to a close, much gratitude was extended to all those who took part and/or contributed any type of service for the Memorial Day remembrance. Special appreciation was extended to the Village of Gouverneur for their assistance in setting up the ceremony. Also to the members of the color guard and all the participants in the parade and ceremony.

All those in attendance were then invited to partake in the free luncheon at the American Legion Post No. 65 following the ceremony.

Gouverneur Farmers Market opens June 3

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Farmers Market, sponsored by the Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce, is returning to the Gouverneur Village Park this summer. It will be open every Thursday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., from June through October. The 2021 Gouverneur Farmers Market season will open this Thursday, June 3.

Gouverneur Farmers Market Director Linda Brown told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that she anticipates at least seven vendors to make their return during the 2021 Gouverneur Farmers Market season. But there is still plenty of room for local vendors to sign up to join the farmers market fun. For more information, call Linda at 315-287-0384.

Are you looking for farm-fresh produce, plants, local products, crafts and more? Don’t miss the Gouverneur Farmers Market this summer on Thursdays in the Gouverneur Village Park!

GHS announces Class of 2021 Honors Group

Gouverneur Central High School is excited to announce the 2021 Honors Group. Eligibility for the senior Honors Group is based on an overall average of 90 or above for 3 ½ years of high school. Gouverneur Central has 18 members in the Class Of 2021 Honors Group.

ELLEN BAER

Ellen is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joel and Denise Baer. Throughout high school, she has participated in many clubs and athletic activities. She is an active member of Varsity Club, Student Senate, and the National Honor Society. Ellen has served as the class president since her freshman year, in addition to participating in swimming, basketball, and softball. Ellen will attend SUNY Potsdam in the fall where she will become an elementary and special education teacher.

HOLLY BARTON

Holly is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph and Evelyn Barton. During her high school career, Holly has been involved in various clubs and activities including National Honor Society and Student Senate. As part of the National Honor Society, Holly has completed many hours of community service in Gouverneur as well as the surrounding area. She has been active in soccer since middle school and was team captain on both the junior varsity and varsity teams. She also served as class secretary for four years. Holly will attend SUNY Brockport in the nursing program. After becoming a registered nurse, she hopes to continue her education with the goal of becoming a nurse practitioner.

HAYLEE CAMPBELL

Haylee is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gary and Mona Campbell. She is a member of National Honor Society and Student Senate, where she served as the class treasurer since 9th grade. Throughout high school she played varsity soccer and indoor and outdoor track and field. Haylee has earned over 30 college credits during high school and received a scholarship to Elmira College and SUNY Canton. In the fall, Haylee will attend SUNY Canton in the nursing program with the long-term goal of becoming a nurse anesthetist.

CORRYN CANELL

Corryn is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Casey and Stacy Canell. She has participated in athletics and sports including Cross Country, Varsity Indoor and Outdoor Track & Field, and American Kang Duk Won Karate, as a brown belt. She has also participated with Thespian Society involving various musicals and drama productions including: Jazz Band, Chamber Singers, All-County Band and Chorus, Tri-M Music Honor Society President, CODA Secretary and Missoula Children’s Theatre. Additional activities include Key Club, Varsity Club, Yearbook and National Honor Society. Corryn participated in the Hugh O’Brien Youth (HOBY) Leadership Conference and Medical Academy of Science and Health (MASH) Camp and has participated in various service activities within the community.

Corryn will attend St. Lawrence University in the fall majoring in biochemistry or neuroscience with minors in music and sports studies and exercise science, pursuing a career as an Ophthalmologist/Optometrist.

BREENA DRAKE

Breena is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Brian and Kimberly Drake. She has been a member of the indoor and outdoor soccer teams and has served as a captain. As a sophomore, Breena was inducted into National Honor Society. She will attend North Country Community College in Radiologic Technology with plans to further her education and become a certified radiologist.

DYLAN FARR

Dylan is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Tony and Tzveta Farr. He has been named to Academic Excellence every quarter throughout his high school career while taking many college-level classes. He has also been a member of the Varsity Golf and Varsity Soccer teams. Dylan will attend Clarkson University to study Environmental Engineering or Engineering and Management and pursue a career in business or engineering.

KATHERINE FULLAM

Katherine is the daughter of Mr. Robert Fullam II. Katherine has been a member of orchestra, where she was the first chairman of the second violins, performed a NYSSMA solo, was in Select Strings and selected for All-County. Last year, she was inducted into Tri-M Music Honor Society. Her plans include full-time employment with the possibility of college in her future.

CLAIRE KNOWLTON

Claire Knowlton is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Timothy and Robyn Knowlton. She has been accepted to, and will be attending, SUNY Cobleskill where she will pursue a double major in Canine Training and Management and Psychology. Claire has been president of Key Club since her sophomore year, a member of girls’ swim team, a member of National Junior Honor Society, National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, Yearbook Club, and employed as a lifeguard by the school. Claire received the Sage Scholar award from Russell Sage College her junior year. Claire is graduating with 24 college credits through North Country Community College, Hudson Valley Community College, and Syracuse University. Claire has been accepted into the Honors Program at SUNY Cobleskill for this coming fall and hopes to join the school’s Canine Club where she can be surrounded by dogs for days. In the future, Claire plans to enter the world of Animal Assisted Therapy. 

HOPE LEADER

Hope is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry and Dayna Leader. Hope has participated in swimming, cheerleading, musicals, Chamber Singers, National Honor Society, and Dean Oratorical competition. In the fall, she will attend Franciscan University of Steubenville, majoring in nursing.

LAUREN MCCARTHY

Lauren is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Sean and Tracy McCarthy of Gouverneur. Throughout high school she was an active member in Key Club and volunteered her time with the Backpack Program, Salvation Army bell ringing during the holidays and providing daycare during functions at the elementary school. Lauren was a member of the Varsity Basketball Cheerleading team. She was a member of Chamber Singers and performed a NYSSMA solo at Crane School of Music for two years. Additionally, she was a photographer for yearbook. Lauren earned three college credits from a psychology course through Hudson Valley Community College this year. She may continue other college courses in this field. She plans to continue in employment as she decides what field of education she wishes to pursue.

REESE MORENZ

Reese is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Rusty and Nicole Morenz. During her high school career, she has participated in junior varsity and varsity soccer, been a member of the Key Club and National Honor Society. Reese was selected to attend the Horizons I and II program at Clarkson University and awarded the Clarkson University High School Achievement Award. She will attend the dual nursing program at SUNY Canton with the goal to continue her education and become a nurse practitioner.

LEEAH MORRISSIEY

Leeah is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Adam and Misty Morrissiey. She has participated in Student Senate as vice president, Key Club and is a member of National Honor Society. Leeah was a member of the girls’ varsity track team and girls’ varsity swim team where she broke five school records including two individual records and three relay records. She is a certified lifeguard and currently works part-time at Dunkin’ Donuts. Leeah also volunteers at Friends for Pound Paws. After graduation, Leeah will attend St. Lawrence University to study Marine and Wildlife Biology.

GAVIN NICHOLS

Gavin is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Leonard and Virginia Nichols. During his high school career, he participated each year with the trap shoot team, Jazz Band, and is currently participating in varsity track. Gavin achieved honor roll since his freshman year and achieved high honors in his sophomore and junior years. Gavin plans to secure full-time employment.

WILLIAM SCHROEDER

William is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas and Valarie Schroeder. He has played in the high school Orchestra for four years and has participated in its Select Strings for a year. He participated as a member of the Cross-Country Team his entire high school career, as well as Varsity Wrestling for three years. During his time at Gouverneur High School he has been a part of the Varsity Club, assisted with stage crew for the high school musical, and volunteered at Grace Food Pantry during the summer. William will attend University at Albany in pursuit of a degree in biology and continue his education to pursue a degree in medicine. His goal is to become a medical doctor.

SHANTALL SWEET

Shantall is the daughter of Ms. Jessica Sweet and stepdaughter of Mr. Patrick Cyrus. During her time in high school, she has accomplished many things both academically and athletically. Shantall plans to attend SUNY Adirondack in the fall where she will major in psychology and play basketball. After completing her degree at SUNY Adirondack, Shantall will attend a four-year university (undecided) and complete her bachelor’s degree. Shantall plans to attend the FBI academy to become a Criminal/Forensic Psychologist in the future.

MATTHEW TURNER

Matthew is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Scott and Sonya Turner. He participated in Varsity Football and Indoor Track and Field and was a member of the National Technical Honor Society. Matthew will attend Clarkson University to study mechanical engineering. His career goal is to work for NASA, creating new and advanced technology in the mechanical engineering field.

KOLBY WELLS

Kolby is the son of Mr. and Mrs. George and Tonya Wells. He participated in many activities ranging from arts to athletics. He has been a member of the high school Drama Club, Thespian Society, Chamber Singers, Select Strings, NYSSMA, CODA officer, Area All-State and All-County, Whiz Quiz, JV Baseball, Indoor Track & Field, Outdoor Track & Field, Cross Country, National Honor Society and Key Club. He has run light and sound for productions and been on the yearbook staff. As a recipient of the Augsbury North Country scholarship, Kolby will attend St. Lawrence University majoring in geology with interest in becoming an environmental geologist.

JARED WILSON

Jared is the son of Mr. Willie Wilson and Mrs. Kyle Baker. He has been named to the honor roll throughout high school and has participated in both baseball and football. Jared will attend Onondaga Community College for an AAS in computer science with plans to transfer to a four-year college to receive a bachelor’s degree in computer science.

State Police investigate fatal crash in Fowler

On May 13, 2021, at approximately 10:32 a.m., State Police responded to State Route 58 in Fowler for a report of a one-car crash. An investigation at the scene revealed that a 2014 Jeep Compass operated by 66-year-old Debra A. Day of Fowler, was traveling east on State Route 58, when her vehicle ran off the south shoulder of the road and struck a rock wall head on. The vehicle then rolled and eventually landed back onto all four wheels in the southbound lane of traffic. Day was transported by LifeNet to SUNY Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse where she succumbed to her injuries. An autopsy is pending. This investigation is ongoing.

Wildcats host first wrestling tournament; Baer, Cummings, Griffith, Tupper all win

Gouverneur Wildcat Wrestler Carter Baer using his strength to dominate over his Franklin Academy opponent. (Rachel Hunter photo)

Gouverneur Wildcat Wrestler Zoe Griffith uses forward pressure to pin her opponent. (Rachel Hunter photo)

Gouverneur Wildcat Wrestler Joseph Cummings going to head-to-head with his Franklin Academy opponent during last Wednesday match at home. (Rachel Hunter photo)

Gouverneur Wildcat Wrestler Drew Gates knocks his Canton opponent to his feet using pressure from the side. (Rachel Hunter photo)

by Dick Sterling

Wrestling is back!

The high school sport that the Gouverneur Wildcats are most dominate in finally made its return after a long break due to the COVID 19 pandemic. The last New York State championships for high school sports that was completed before the COVID cancellations began was wrestling. On February 29,2020, Gouverneur’s Carter Baer won a New York State title at 138 pounds. Baer, now a junior, finished the season with an impressive record of 45-3. Other Wildcat wrestlers took part in the state tournament and offered some impressive matches.

After the 2020-21 season was postponed, wrestlers were finally able to return to the mats last Wednesday as the Wildcats hosted the first of three round robin tournaments. Modified and varsity wrestlers are divided into weight class and each will get two or three matches.

Baer, who has tried to remain sharp, has competed in a few select tournaments in recent weeks, but this was his first opportunity to compete in the familiar surroundings of the Gouverneur High School gyms. The talented junior was impressive as he pinned two different wrestlers from Malone wrestling at 170 pounds.

The Wildcats most impressive female wrestler, Zoe Griffith, was also very successful at the round robin tournament as she faced off against wrestlers from Canton, Massena and Ogdensburg and earned a pin in all three matches at 120 pounds.

Joseph Cummings (170) earned pinfall victories over two opponents from Malone and Trayton Tupper (145) also earned a pin in both of his matches.

Young modified wrestlers Mason Dusharm, Tanner King, Ryan Mashaw and JD Minckler each earned victories at the tournament.

Wildcat wrestling fans are hopeful that high school sports will return to normal by the time the next regular season kicks off in November. The Wildcats are chomping at the bit to get back to competition in the sport that they have proven to dominate for many years.

New Behavioral Health Wing Opens at Gouverneur Hospital

by Rachel Hunter

During a private Open House ceremony on Monday night, Gouverneur Hospital unveiled its brand new Outpatient Behavioral Health Services wing located in the easterly side of the Hospital.

Gouverneur Hospital Board members Mark Brackett, Roger Cook, Andy Leonard, and Ted Totten; St. Lawrence Health Board Member Brian Gardam; Deputy Chief of Staff Logan Eddy from Senator Patty Ritchie’s office; and Gouverneur Mayor Ronald McDougall were among those in attendance to learn about and view the new space.

From left: Deputy Chief of Staff Logan Eddy from Senator Patty Ritchie’s office, GH Board Member Ted Totten, St. Lawrence Health Director of Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Services Heather Rich, and other staff members are shown in the Behavioral Health Registration area. (SLHS photo)

Gouverneur Hospital CEO Eric Burch welcomed the guests and commented on all the successes the Hospital has seen come to fruition since it formally opened in January 2014. Some of the milestones include the completion of a $2.5M renovation and expansion of the Emergency Department, upgrading Imaging Services with 3D mammography, and the relocation of Inpatient Detox services from Potsdam to Gouverneur.

“Our hospital and St. Lawrence Health have so much to celebrate and be proud of as we are well on our way to fulfilling the North Country’s health care needs and reducing gaps in care,” he said.

“In 2018, we submitted a formal request for New York State Health Care Facility Transformation grant funding to help address the overwhelming need for opioid use and mental health services across the State,” Mr. Burch said. “With these funds, we will be able to expand how we offer substance use disorder, behavioral health, mental health, and detox services through an integrated, collaborative continuum of care with primary and specialty care providers.

“We’re undoubtedly making progress; however, it’s critical that we continue identifying and building out areas where we can improve availability to behavioral health services,” he added.

Behavioral Health Director Jayme Smith, PsyD, pointed out a number of the advancements made to the Behavioral Health and Substance Use Disorder (SUD) services throughout St. Lawrence Health have happened within Gouverneur Hospital. Among those additions are Detox services, an Outpatient SUD clinic, and the Maternal Wraparound Program for pregnant and addicted women.

“We are truly thankful that Gouverneur Hospital has been supportive and responsive in rising to meet the need for Behavioral Health Services,” Dr. Smith said.

From front: St. Lawrence Health Director of Outpatient Psychiatric Services Laurie Zweifel, PhD; St. Lawrence Health Chief Financial Officer Donna McGregor, Gouverneur Hospital CEO Eric Burch, and Executive Administrative Assistance Kimberly Smith are in the Behavioral Health Registration area. (SLHS photo)

“The Gouverneur Hospital Outpatient Behavioral Health Service area has been our most ambitious undertaking to date. This clinic will be the first in our system to provide the full range of outpatient, evidence-based practices under an Office of Mental Health license,” she added. “With this new licensure, we will be able to provide children, adolescents, and adults, cutting edge treatment in a range of modalities, regardless of the acuity of their mental health disorder.”

Dr. Smith said by offering Intensive Outpatient Services to our local youth, St. Lawrence Health is making a commitment to provide a new level of care for them, which is not currently being offered anywhere else in the area.

“This program will help keep our kids out of the hospital and in their homes and schools, where they should be, and we are poised and ready to start providing this much-needed treatment for them,” she said.

St. Lawrence Health President David Acker, FACHE, said, “We personally feel a tremendous sense of responsibility to ensure our community has local access to care and we will continue to make specialty care, like Behavioral Health, a priority for our area. While this new space is beautiful and affords many benefits, the exceptional staff working within the suite are truly our greatest resources we can offer our patients.”

Dr. Smith in an interview with the Gouverneur Tribune Press said the following: “The goal is really to provide patients with a one-stop shop. If people have mental health issues, in the clinic, they will be able to receive individual therapy, group therapy, medication assessment, medication management. Likewise, if they have any addiction concerns, they can get therapy to help with the addictions… We are so excited that we are going to be able to provide really any care that a person might need. One of the things that we are really focusing on for this clinic in particular is service to youth. We really want to make sure that children and adolescents are going to be able to access best care. We are looking specifically to do something called an Intensive Outpatient Program for adolescents. Intensive Outpatient is actually a great service because it creates a lot more service and structure than a traditional outpatient model where you come in once a week and see your therapist and then you go home. But Intensive Outpatient, you will go three times per week for about three hours. This kind of really intensive treatment helps keeps kids out of hospitals. That is what we are really going for… What can we do to make sure that mental needs are met in a way that kids can stay home. They don’t have to go to the inpatient. We are really excited about doing that.”

When asked about the need in the North Country for behavioral health services, Dr. Smith said the following: “We find significant need across St. Lawrence County, but particularly in Gouverneur. Really, the children and adolescents are struggling. We see this in the news with the recent rash of suicides. We are seeing it in the schools. I think Covid has increased a lot of stress in people, making people feel a lot more isolated. And so we are hoping that by being able to provide group therapy, we can reduce those feelings of isolation and really start helping people with some mental health needs that maybe they were not paying attention to, or were unable to gain access to care through the pandemic.”

Dr. Smith also told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that the new Outpatient Behavioral Health Services wing at Gouverneur Hospital would create around 10 new positions. “We have hired some of those positions, but we are still looking to hire,” she said. “We are excited that we are adding jobs in the community.”

Dr. Smith also said the following: “We’ll take any route of entry. Anyway you can get to our door, we will take care of you. You can call and give a self-referral. You can have your doctor refer you. You can even do a walk-in. We have appointments every day that are open to people who might be in crisis. So, anyway you get there we will help… This is really a premiere clinic. We don’t have any Office of Mental Health clinics like this in any of our other locations, so Gouverneur Hospital is really the first place, the first clinic where we are going to offer Office of Mental Health (OMH) services and Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) services. So it is really pretty exciting.”

Don’t put your health care on hold, to learn more about St. Lawrence Health’s Behavioral Health Services, and to take a look inside the new wing at Gouverneur Hospital, please visit https://www.stlawrencehealthsystem.org/services/behavioral-health. For more information on Substance Use Disorder Services, visit https://www.stlawrencehealthsystem.org/services/substance-use-disorder.

GHS to release virtual theatrical performance on May 20

Theater is back at Gouverneur! Gouverneur High School Grades 10-12 to present: 6 Ft. Scenes, a play by Lindsay Price. The performance will be released for viewing at: 7:00 PM, Thursday, May 20th on the GCSD Facebook Page. Donations can be made to the High School Musical Department at the High School.

A total of 15 scenes will be performed by: Cole Siebels, Hazen Given, Noble Baker, Maia Ontiveros and Alan Boclair. "A collection of 15 scenes in which no two characters get within 6ft of each other. Use them to explore the physical and emotional distance between people - what causes us to stay apart?" It is directed by Emily Bason with assistance from Alex Clancy (lighting) and Kolby Wells (sound).

A special word of gratitude is extended to Gouverneur High School Principal Cory Wood, Grant Hanlon and Robert Decker.

Murder Investigation: Rossie man gunned down inside Richville home, SLC Sheriff makes 3 arrests

St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Deputies have charged John C. Anson, 29, of 580 County Route 18, Richville, with murder in the second degree (A-1 Felony), Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the second degree (C Felont), after an investigation that occurred at 580 County Route 18, Richville, at approximately 2:30 a.m. on Tuesday, May 4. Deputies were initially called to the residence for a burglary in progress with an unknown male inside.

Upon their arrival, deputies found Justin A. Massey, 40, of Rossie, NY deceased with a gunshot to his body.

Also charged during the incident are Charles M. Anson, 51, of Richville with three counts of Reckless Endangerment (D Felony) and Tampering with Physical Evidence (E Felony). Kayla M. Briggs, 25, of DeKalb Junction with Tampering with Physical Evidence (E Felony).

Both Ansons are currently being held at the Sheriff’s Office awaiting arraignment in front of a local court judge. Due to New York State Bail Reform, Kayla Briggs will be issued an appearance ticket and released.

The St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office was assisted on scene by the New York State Police, the Department of Homeland Security Investigations, the North Country Crime Analysis Center, and the St. Lawrence County District Attorney’s Office.

It is not believed that any other suspects are at large as it relates to this particular incident. The investigation remains pending.

The Sheriff’s Office will release more information when it becomes available. As the North Country mourns the loss of Justin Massey, the Gouverneur Tribune Press will update this story as more information is made available.

Annual Gouverneur Kiwanis Club sponsored Cemetery Clean Up Day a success

Gouverneur High School National Honor Society members and Gouverneur K-Kids Club members helping to remove fallen tree limbs and more from one of the roadways at Riverside Cemetery in Gouverneur. They were assisted by a Town of Gouverneur Highway Department operator and payloader. (Rachel Hunter photo)

Clean-up efforts get underway at the Riverside Cemetery in Gouverneur on Saturday, May 1. Pictured: Gouverneur Cemetery Supervisor Steelson Schwelnus talks with the equipment operators from the Town of Gouverneur Highway Department, Village of Gouverneur Department of Public Works and Gouverneur Cub Scout Pack 2035 Cubmaster Chris Gates along with the GHS National Honor Society Members. (Rachel Hunter photo)

Gouverneur High School National Honor Society Advisor Marcy Tyler passing out rakes to GHS National Honor Society Members during the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club sponsored Cemetery Cleanup on May 1 at Riverside Cemetery in Gouverneur. (Rachel Hunter photo)

Nancy Holdstock of Gouverneur volunteering during the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club sponsored Annual Cemetery Cleanup at Riverside Cemetery in Gouverneur on Saturday, May 1. (Rachel Hunter photo)

Gouverneur High School National Honor Society Members joining the clean-up efforts at the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club sponsored Annual Cemetery Cleanup on Saturday, May 1 at Riverside Cemetery in Gouverneur. (Rachel Hunter photo)

Village of Gouverneur Department Motor Equipment Operator lifts the bucket on the backhoe to bring tree logs, brush, and more into the disposal area during the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club sponsored Annual Cemetery Cleanup on Saturday, May 1 at Riverside Cemetery in Gouverneur. (Rachel Hunter photo)

Volunteers worked hard throughout the morning of Saturday, May 1 to facilitate tree and branch removal using chainsaws and more at Riverside Cemetery in Gouverneur during the 2021 Gouverneur Kiwanis Club sponsored Cemetery Cleanup Day. Here is just a portion of the work completed. (Rachel Hunter photo)

by Rachel Hunter

The Annual Gouverneur Kiwanis Club sponsored Cemetery Cleanup at Riverside and East Riverside Cemeteries on Saturday, May 1 was a success with more than 30 local residents volunteering to assist in the clean-up efforts.

The focus was on tree and branch removal, but many local residents also helped with leaf-raking and other clean-up efforts. The Town of Gouverneur Highway Department provided a payloader from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., and the Village of Gouverneur Department of Public Works provided a backhoe and operator.

Despite a year off due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Gouverneur community did not skip a beat – once again coming together to accomplish much tree and branch removal at the local cemeteries in advance of the Memorial Day holiday.

The Gouverneur Kiwanis Club also cooked and provided hot dogs and bottled water for the volunteers.

The cemetery clean-up efforts were made possible by volunteers from the Gouverneur Kiwanis Club, Gouverneur Kiwanis K-Kids Club, Gouverneur High School National Honor Society, Gouverneur Cub Scout Pack 2035, Gouverneur Lions Club, Gouverneur Garden Club, as well as many other community members.

Much gratitude is extended to all who helped with the clean-up efforts at the local cemeteries, as well as all those who made this event possible.

Gouverneur Pack 2035 Cubmaster Chris Gates told the Gouverneur Tribune Press this week that while a lot of work was accomplished during the Annual Gouverneur Kiwanis Club Cemetery Clean-Up Day on May 1, there is still a lot left to do.

Anyone who would like to assist with cemetery cleanup efforts on Saturday, May 8 are invited to arrive at Riverside Cemetery at 9 a.m. Cubmaster Gates said that the Pack also plans to set flags, clean headstones and plant trees the same day. All are encouraged to bring gloves, a rake (if you have one) and some energy to get the cemetery cleaned up before Memorial Day. For more information, call Cubmaster Chris Gates at 315-212-3033.

Hydrant flushing in Gouverneur on May 5, 6

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

The Village of Gouverneur, Department of Public Works, wishes to inform residents that hydrant flushing will be done during the day, from 6:00 am to 3:00 pm Wednesday May 5, 2021 and then again from 6:00 am to 3:00 pm on Thursday May 6, 2021.

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

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

Village of Gouverneur COVID-19 Pandemic Update

submitted by Mayor Ron McDougall

Well Gouverneur here we are on week fifty-nine of this dreadful pandemic. Remember the following seven pillars:

1. WEAR A MASK

2. SOCIAL (PHYSICAL) DISTANCE

3. WASH YOUR HANDS

4. STAY HOME IF SICK

5. STAY LOCAL

6. GET TESTED

7. GET VACCINATED (when available to you)

In breaking news this past weekend both Federal and State Governments approved the Johnson and Johnson vaccine suspension to be over effective immediately. The eleven day so called pause will help a number of our citizens who prefer the Johnson and Johnson so called one and done vaccination process. It should be noted that our St. Lawrence County Health department has at least 100 Johnson and Johnson shots available at present and expect more to be available soon.

For pillar number 7 vaccinations are possible by the following means:

1. To register you can get on the NYS site - am I eligible and if this becomes difficult you can also call one of the following numbers where you will be able to talk to a person and schedule your vaccination. The number is 1-833-NYS-4VAX OR 1-833-697-4829.

2. Here in St. Lawrence County older adults needing assistance scheduling vaccine appointments can call the County Office for the Aging at 315-386-4730. St. Lawrence County Public Transit is offering route deviations to bring riders to COVID-19 vaccination sites. Maps and schedules are viewable at slcnypublic-transit.com. The Public Health Department is also available to assist with registration and answer questions at 315-386-2325 or SLCCOVID19SHaredMailbox@stlawco.org.

Globally, India which seems to be most infected country presently with of course a dense population and a limited amount of vaccines or health care capacity. Worldwide there is an estimated 150 million cases that have been documented of which well over 3 million have lost their lives.

Here in our own country we are averaging 50,000 positive cases per day which is down about 10 percent from a week ago. Nationwide vaccines seem to be widely available at this time with the addition of the Johnson and Johnson being added to the supply chain. Of our 50 states and territories Michigan seems to be the most severe infected state at this time.

In State news the Governor was in Syracuse yesterday and announced the State Fair will go on this year as scheduled for the full 18 days from August 20th until September 6th. However there will be strict COVID guidelines instituted and 50 percent capacity limitations. In other state news on Friday, April 23rd it was announced that 60 year olds and above will be able to access vaccine clinics by simply walking in. This will be effective statewide however it is recommended to still schedule appointments when possible. Also effective April 1st all Correctional Facilities will be reopened to visitations with COVID guidelines in place.

From the Control Room Board our top priority remains getting as many people vaccinated with whatever type of vaccine is available as soon as possible. Here in Northern New York our rate of infection decreased to 1.38 percent over the weekend.

In St. Lawrence County news our Board of Legislators did hold a meeting last evening. However there was no COVID presentation made by the County Health Department or their representatives. Our County Administrator Ruth Doyle did update us on vaccination clinics along with vaccine availability. In addition she was complementary to the Gouverneur Rescue Squad in there help to administer vaccines to home bound residents not only in Gouverneur but other areas of our County.

The following is Countywide data for the past week:

TUESDAY, APRIL 20, 2021 – MONDAY, APRIL 26, 2021.

NEW CASES - +95 = 7123 TOTAL (vs 131 new cases a week ago)

RECOVERED CASES - +111 = TOTAL 6915 (vs 190 a week ago)

HOSPITALIZATIONS - +4 = 11 CURRENTLY

DEATHS - 0 = still at 95 TOTAL

COVID TESTS ADMINISTERED - +9,174 = 302,653 TOTAL

(vs 10,432 a week ago)

ACTIVE CASES - -16 = 113 CURRENTLY

Here in Gouverneur we have had six new positive cases in the past week which stands at a total of 625 currently. At present our isolations now total five versus nine the week before last. In other Gouverneur news our Community Center in partnership with St. Lawrence County is hosting a second shot clinic on Friday, April 30th. Let me remind you to be fully vaccinated you need to get that second shot. I find it somewhat alarming that nationwide eight percent of individuals who received the first shot did not for whatever reason receive the second shot. Also this Friday, April 30th the Gouverneur Fire Department will host a so called pop up vaccination clinic from 2-4 p.m. As of this morning they have 13 open appointments available. Next week our Gouverneur Fair Board meets again and I anticipate many decisions will be made about the status of this year’s Gouverneur - St. Lawrence County Fair. With the State Fair announcement yesterday it certainly appears that our local fair will be open on a somewhat limited basis.

From my aspect as your Mayor and a Control Room Board member our COVID performance and response to it are on a continuous improvement trend. However in a bit of caution it would seem countrywide and here locally we have about half our population inoculated. The question remains what about our second half of the population? To obtain our goal of herd immunity we have to get a majority of the second half of our population inoculated. It is a fact that as our supply increases that the vaccination process is slowing. In another bit of caution remember in general our three approved vaccine types are estimated to be 95 percent effective so in turn even if you are fully vaccinated there is still one chance in twenty that you could be re-infected. So remember adhere to the pillars. Until next week keep the faith, better days are coming. Take care and God bless.

St. Lawrence County Youth Bureau hosts first-ever 5K Trash Dash in Gouverneur

Gouverneur High School National Honor Society members gathered on Saturday, April 24 in the GHS parking lot to join in the St. Lawrence County Youth Bureau sponsored 5K Trash Dash in Gouverneur. Participants included: Torie Salisbury, Elizabeth Riutta, Reese Morenz, Mariah Manning, Noel LaPierre, Ella Impaglia, Hailey Cook, Raelin Burns, Ava Bartholomew, Cole Siebels, Maya Bartleson, Kaitlyn Gibson, Kobe Steorts, Abigail Way, Cassidy Hardy, and Allison Carvel. (Rachel Hunter photo)

GHS National Honor Society members don safety gear and open their trash bags to prepare for the 5K Trash Dash, sponsored by the St. Lawrence County Youth Bureau, in Gouverneur on Saturday, April 24.

GHS National Honor Society members pick up trash alongside County Route 11 in Gouverneur during the 5K Trash Dash, sponsored by the St. Lawrence County Youth Bureau, on Saturday, April 24. (Rachel Hunter photo)

St. Lawrence County Youth Bureau Director Alexa Backus (left) and GHS National Honor Society Adviser Marcy Tyler (right) and SLC Youth Committee Chairman and GHS NHS Member Cole Siebels (behind) hands on safety equipment to participants in the 5K Trash Dash, sponsored by the St. Lawrence County Youth Bureau, on Saturday, April 24 in Gouverneur. (Rachel Hunter photo)

by Rachel Hunter

The St. Lawrence County Youth Bureau on Saturday, April 24 and Sunday, April 25 sponsored a 5K Trash Dash. Participants helped to clean trash from the side of county roadways in five locations – including Gouverneur on Saturday, April 24, starting at 9 a.m.

“Youth members, on our Advisory Board, were motived to increase county environmental awareness and decided to offer a trash dash on Global Youth Service Day during the weekend of April 24th and 25th. This is a wonderful opportunity to bring generations together and help clean up our county roads,” said Alexa Backus, St. Lawrence County Youth Bureau Director.

This event was also sponsored by Hershey’s Young Heroes and Youth Service America. Gouverneur High School Junior Cole Siebels, who also serves as the St. Lawrence County Youth Committee Chairman and is a Gouverneur High School National Honor Society Member, was recently awarded a $250 Hershey’s Young Heroes Grant for this initiative.

“We are excited to be conducting this initiative. Not only does this benefit our local environment, we also believe this is a great way to bring members of the community together for a really good cause. We hope to spread awareness about serious issues facing our county and expect to make a lasting positive impact,” said Cole Siebels, Hershey’s Youth Heroes grant recipient.

Global Youth Service Day (GYSD) celebrates and mobilizes the millions of young people who improve their communities through service. GYSD is celebrated each April in more than 100 countries with young people working together to address the world’s most critical issues and help their communities thrive.

“Our country is witnessing a divisiveness not seen in generations,” said Steven A. Culbertson, CEO and president of YSA (Youth Service America), the leader of GYSD. “At YSA, we understand that youth service levels the playing field, providing productive spaces where young people can come together for the common good, and be contributors not spectators. We need youth in St. Lawrence County, New York to be leaders and problem solvers today, not just the leaders of a distant tomorrow.”

The St. Lawrence County Youth Bureau collaborated with the St. Lawrence County Weights and Measures and the St. Lawrence County Highway Department to make this initiative possible.

On Saturday, April 24, about 20 participants gathered in the parking lots at Gouverneur High School to join the 5K Trash Dash. With 16 members participating, the largest group in attendance was the GHS National Honor Society along with GHS National Honor Society Advisor Marcy Tyler. Looking at all those who decided to come out in support of the event, Siebels said the following: “I’m glad that we had a lot of people who were willing to come out, help the community, help protect the environment. This is a good-sized group to have. I am very pleased with the turnout.”

Each attendee throughout St. Lawrence County participating in the St. Lawrence County Youth Bureau sponsored 5K Trash Dash was given a hard hat and safety vest (courtesy of the St. Lawrence County Highway Department), gloves (courtesy of the Police Activities League of Massena) and plastic bags once they joined the event. In Gouverneur, a short safety briefing was held in the GHS parking lot in advance of the clean-up efforts. All were encouraged not to pick up anything that looked suspicious (i.e. hypodermic needles, batteries, bottles with dark liquid inside), and that the item in question would be flagged for further investigation. The participants were urged to walk as far along the 5K route as they felt that they were able, before making the return trip to the GHS parking lot.

It took the participants over two hours to travel about two miles north of the Rock Island St. entrance to the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fairgrounds, as they picked up trash and debris alongside both sides of County Route 11 in Gouverneur. More than seven large plastic bags were filled and left for pick-up by the St. Lawrence County Highway Department. All participants upon their return to the GHS parking lot received Hershey chocolate candy bars as a reward for all their hard work.

Siebels said there is great hope to make the St. Lawrence County Youth Bureau sponsored 5K Trash Dash an annual event. “I hope that if we don’t continue it, which I believe we will, that other people would organize something similar to it. I hope that we can gain more participation as the years go on. I hope people see this, what we’re doing and will want to join in the future.”

Much gratitude was extended to all who made the St. Lawrence County Youth Bureau’s 5K Trash Dash event possible.

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

by Rachel Hunter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GCS Superintendent Search Community Presentation to be held this Thursday in GHS Auditorium

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Central School Board of Education has selected Jacquelyn L. Kelly as the finalist in the search for a superintendent candidate.  Kelly will present to stakeholder groups on Thursday, April 22, 2021. A community presentation will be held at the Gouverneur High School Auditorium on Thursday at 6 p.m. It will consist of a 20-minute PowerPoint presentation by the candidate, followed by a 20-minute Q&A period. This is an in-person event, and will not be livestreamed on the GCSD Wildcats Facebook page.

All groups will be provided with a feedback form that will be provided to the Board of Education on Friday, April 23, 2021. Following the stakeholder sessions, the Board will review the feedback forms, conduct final reference checks, and discuss next steps.

Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that longtime superintendent Lauren French recently announced her retirement at the end of this school year, leaving the post vacant.  

BOCES District Superintendent Thomas Burns was called upon by the school district’s Board of Education to act as a consultant in the selection of a superintendent of schools, and in the recruitment, screening and evaluation of candidates. This service is provided under the BOCES Administrative Services.  

Jacquelyn Kelly has over 20 years of experience as an educator, and has served as Assistant Superintendent for Ogdensburg City School District in Ogdensburg, NY since 2019. Prior to this post, Ms. Kelly acted as Primary Principal at John F. Kennedy Elementary School in Ogdensburg, NY. Kelly holds a CAS as a School Building Leader from St. Lawrence University, a Masters of Science in Education from Nazareth College, and a Bachelor of Science in Management from St. John Fisher College.  

Don’t miss the opportunity to hear from the candidate on Thursday, April 22, 6 p.m., in the GHS Auditorium.

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

by Rachel Hunter

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

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

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

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

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

Volunteers needed for Gouverneur Kiwanis Club Annual Cemetery Cleanup on May 1

by Rachel Hunter

The Kiwanis Club of Gouverneur is spearheading its Annual Cemetery Cleanup after a year off due to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. The primary focus of the work will be tree and branch removal. All North Country community members are invited to help on Saturday, May 1. Those participating are invited to bring chainsaws, nippers etc., and gloves. Organizers said that leaf raking is fine, but is not the top priority.

The public is welcome to begin at 8 a.m., and work as long as they wish. As in years past, the Kiwanis Club of Gouverneur will have a registration table for volunteers at Riverside Cemetery. Groups such as Boy and Girl Scouts, sports teams and families are welcome to attend and help as long as they observe the generally accepted COVID prevention measures. The cemetery is in an open-air situation, and the Kiwanis Club believes the risks are minimal. Masks should definitely be worn at registration and at the food station unless eating at the time. The Gouverneur Kiwanis Club members will be available to sign students papers to indicate that they have volunteered on the day of the annual cemetery cleanup.

The Town of Gouverneur will provide a payloader from 9 to 11 a.m. or so. The Village of Gouverneur will provide a backhoe and operator.

The Cemetery Committee wishes to inform the public that all Christmas and other decorations will be removed and discarded as of the clean-up day. Families wishing to retain such materials should remove them before then.

The Kiwanis Club of Gouverneur, Inc. will cook and provide hot dogs and bottled water for volunteers.

For more details, call Lyle Hotis at 315-276-5199.

DOT Physical By Appt business opens in Gouverneur

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

by Rachel Hunter

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

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

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

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

Veterans bestowed honor for 50 years of continuous American Legion membership

by Rachel Hunter

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

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

Both veterans said that they were drafted.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

COVID-19 Update: GCSD on remote learning through February

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Central School District on Feb. 18 announced that it would continue education via its remote learning model through the end of February. Students in out-of-district programs (i.e. BOCES, Ag Academy, etc.) continue to attend as long as they are not placed under quarantine, said Superintendent of Schools Lauren French.

“One of the things that we are looking at is we have a very high rate of student infection right now,” Superintendent French said in her weekly COVID-19 update to the GCSD community. “What I did is I went back and collected information… In January, we were basically getting one positive student every three days. Now we have one positive student every one and a half days, which means in the last nine days, we have taken six positive students. We took an additional positive student today. We’ve taken several positive employees. And so, because these people will not come off of quarantine until the end of next week, I am expressing my concern right now so that parents can make best decisions for their children that we will remain remote.

“I do understand that causes a great deal of consternation in the community. I know that not everybody is happy with that decision. What I have to do is make a decision on what is best for the vast majority of people. Personally, I am responsible for the health and safety of almost 2,000 people. We have just under 1,600 students. We have very close to 300 employees. Then we have the bus garage staff, and while they are not my direct employees… they are employees of First Student … they are employees that I care about and people that help us every day. So I have to be mindful that my decisions also take their care and their wellbeing in mind.

“I know some people have been critical on where I am getting my numbers (on the rate of infection) from… I explained it recently this way: The information that is posted about Gouverneur is just the Village and Town of Gouverneur. Our school district actually takes in seven different zipcodes. When people look at just Gouverneur and see that in the county yesterday we had 69 positive cases. Gouverneur, yesterday, only had 45. Those were not 45 new cases…

“So part of the consternation is: “Well, where is Mrs. French getting her numbers from?” Every night I get a file that is securely downloaded from Public Health. It goes to several people in the Nurse Department, and confirms all of the names of the people that I have to keep track of. Yesterday, that list was 134 people. Today, the list was 144 people. Those are the data points that I have to look at. So, in order to be mindful that people have to make safe plans for their children… I agree with that, and I want to support that… we will be remote for the next week. The reason for that is the majority of our people who are on quarantine right now will be off next Thursday and next Friday.

“The second piece of information that I have to ask people to help me with is: This is not a one-size fits all solution. A lot of times people have said, “Why can’t we do what Edwards is doing? Why can’t we do what Hermon-DeKalb is doing? Why can’t we do what Hammond is doing or Indian River?” We have a very discreet set of parameters that make Gouverneur Central School unique. We have many more students than Hammond, Hermon-DeKalb or Edwards. That is one thing.

“Some of those schools have parts of their campus that can be isolated. We do have three distinct campus settings – Elementary, Middle and High. But that doesn’t always make a difference if the bus is dropping students off at all three locations and the transmission occurs on the bus. Please understand, I am not putting bus drivers under the bus so to speak. Our bus drivers are the very first group of people that greet our kids, try to get them to school every day safely, support them. They are the individuals that notify us with needs and concerns and things for us to be aware of so I would never undermine their primary responsibility in keeping our students safe. But our busing, in terms of the fact that Gouverneur is 223 sq. miles – that is larger than both Canton and Potsdam combined. We pull in a lot of kids from a lot of areas, which means those students (not only on buses, but also in different areas) are exposed to a lot of different things.

“There are two things I am working on right now – and that is to reassure, not only my staff, but also the community that we are constantly plugging ahead to try to make a difference and to try to mitigate as many things as we can amid this pandemic. The first thing I am working on is COVID testing for athletes. The only fly in the ointment in my mind is that you do not have to be tested to play. That is state law, by the way, that’s not a Lauren French law. The state says that testing cannot be a pre-requisite to join a team. So, even if I test 90 percent of my athletes, and 10 percent say, “I am not testing,” they are still allowed to play. I don’t begrudge them the right to play but that certainly makes it very difficult to try to isolate and identify prior to any level of spreading whether or not an athlete is positive. However, regardless of that point, we are still going to go forward… We’ve been working on the paperwork and the permission slips that should be able to go out relatively quickly.

“The second thing I am working on, and find very valuable… I think it is going to be a game changer for us. The CDC just released new guidelines, and they are very interesting…The guidelines right now with CDC say: If you have had a vaccination, and you have had both vaccinations, that after a certain period of time, you don’t have to be put in quarantine anymore if you have been exposed to a positive person. You still have to be mindful that you can still be a carrier, and still carry the illness home to a child or an immunocompromised loved one or to a family member that you are taking care of. But to understand that to have two vaccinations gives you some level of protection…

“What I did today was send out a data collection form. It will be a private form, because this is confidential medical information. It is not mandatory that they take it because it is medical data, but for those people that are willing to take the collection… it will ask several questions: 1) Have you received both vaccinations? If so, will you have them both in place by March 1. Will you have them both in place by April 1? If we can get a good analysis of how many people and where they are and who has been vaccinated… then whenever any positive student case comes in, then we would be able to in all likelihood leave staff in place, allow them to continue teaching and only isolate a smaller number of students. This does not preclude students, but it certainly will enable us to have a safer opportunity to have staff present at the building and offering their instruction, keeping the routine in place. So, working this week on both of those, not only the athletic testing but also the vaccination requirements gives me a positive feeling that we are doing the right thing to try to move forward.

“As I said earlier, I know that this is not going to meet the needs of everyone. I understand that. I don’t think there is any one decision that I can make that would satisfy the needs of everyone. So, I fall back on what I have always found to be true and to always be the right decision. That is, to not compromise the safety of my staff or my scholars. This is the only way I can do this because it is the only variable I can control.

“I hate the fact that we have told people that they are in quarantine, that there are positive test results, and they refuse to quarantine. Those people who go out in the community are jeopardizing everything that we are trying to do. I just shudder about that because that is a cavalier attitude to take toward people who only want to be safe, and to be happy. Those individuals have the right to make that decision. It is just that it is counterintuitive and counter productive to what we are trying to do at school… and it continues the spread. I can’t control that, and therefore it makes it that much more difficult to open school.”

Superintendent French also shared that GCSD has had a lot of people helping by “making support visits to people in profound need.”

“The level of need in this community is huge,” Superintendent French said. “The home visits that I have made this week… the home visits, they are just sad. Thinking about them, we have people right now that are at home dealing with metastatic cancer and have a positive loved one. And the fear of the person with cancer – not only trying to get chemo, but stay isolated from a positive student is hard. I’ve walked into two of those situations where people with metastatic cancer now have a positive student living in the home. And it just makes you cry for them. It makes you sad…

“The other thing that I look at and think about is… I had a mom call. Both mom and son were positive, had to quarantine, could not go out of the house, didn’t have enough food, and so I called and said, “What sounds good to you?” She said some sandwich things, and I roasted a chicken and called her. I said, “I am going to come over and leave it on your porch… just turn a light on.” She said she had a dog and would have to hook him up because he is a big one… I said, “Is that all you need?” And I could tell by her voice that it wasn’t. So I pressed her… She said, “I need dog food.” I had to laugh. She said, “I am embarrassed to ask you for dog food.” And I said, “Well, your dog has to eat over the next 10 days, so I’ll get you dog food.” So I went to Price Chopper and got 10 cans of dog food. And this is how small town Gouverneur is… the checkout girl is a student. She said, “Mrs. French, I didn’t know you got a dog.” And I said that I didn’t. But that is what I love about Gouverneur. We do have people that when they need help, we have others that will help them.

“If somebody is looking for something to do, please post on Facebook that you are willing to help someone else. Right now, we have a lot of people who could use a kind word. They could use a kind message. They could use a kind thought. As we are remote this week, the whole goal is to stop the spread. You can do that by staying at home, staying masked, washing your hands, and thinking about protecting others.

“Until we can slow this down, it is going to be very difficult for us to return to normal. The two biggest things that are going to get us back to normal? One, having our staff receive their vaccinations. I am working at that. The second is when we are back at school and do the testing for athletes. Athletes are being given the priority because of the close contact that they are going to be in. And then, we will look to extend that out into the community.

“I thank you. I know that this is not easy. I have offered many, many times, if you need something, I am more than happy to help make it work for you. We’ve got an absolutely wonderful staff. I could not be where I am today without that group of people. I couldn’t be here today without our bus drivers. I couldn’t be here today without my board. Never have I gone through it. To be truthful, my great-grandfather died in it in 1918. I just happened to read his obituary the other night, both he and my great-grandmother died in it in 1918. Maybe I am sensitive to the fact that a pandemic is real, but being kind to people right now is what we need the most. I do care about you. I care about this community. We will get through this if we work together.”

Much gratitude was extended to all the community members who are volunteering to help amid the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. For those who are in need, leave a message with Mrs. French 315-486-2689, or at any of the school offices and they’ll try to connect your needs with a volunteer. All are encouraged to accept volunteer support.

For future COVID-19 updates at Gouverneur Central School District, follow their Facebook page (GCSD Wildcats) or read upcoming editions of the Gouverneur Tribune Press. Any questions can be directed to building principals – High School (287-1900), Middle School (287-1903), and Elementary (287-2260).