Reminder: GFD Fireworks Spectacular on July 5

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Fire Company will host the largest display of fireworks in the North Country on Tuesday, July 5 at dusk. The event will be held at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds. There is a donation charge at the gates for entry. The gates will open at 4 p.m., and the public is welcome and encouraged to attend. Food vendors will be on site at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds as well. The event was mentioned during the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees meeting on Tuesday, June 21.

Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that, after a two-year hiatus, the Gouverneur Fire Department is making plans to come back with the biggest show the Gouverneur Fire Department has ever done.

“It will be the largest show in the North Country for sure,” Gouverneur Fire Chief Tom Conklin told the Gouverneur Tribune Press in a recent interview. “We are looking forward to putting on the show for the community to celebrate the Fourth of July.

“We originally planned to have it on July 4th but being the size of our show, our vendor, was doing to other shows that same night and he didn’t have enough equipment for the size of our show. So we moved it to July 5 because the vendor (Majestic Fireworks) needed all of his equipment for the size of our show alone.”

The Gouverneur Fire Department Fireworks Spectacular is made possible due to the generous sponsorship received from Gouverneur businesses and community members. As of press deadline this week, the list of sponsorships included over 20 names.

As always, the Gouverneur Fire Department asks that no one bring their own fireworks as it is a huge safety concern for the company putting the show on and for the families attending the show.

Don’t miss the GFD Fireworks spectacular at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds on Tuesday, July 5!

Flag Day Parade is Saturday

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce sponsored Annual Flag Day Parade and Business Extravaganza will be held on Saturday, June 11, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The annual tradition will return to the Gouverneur community after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. The event promises to have fun for the whole family, starting at 10 a.m. with fun and activities in the Gouverneur Village Park, including the following: craft vendors, food vendors, business vendors, music and children’s games. Local vendors are invited to bring a table to the Gouverneur Village Park and join the fun! For more information, call the Chamber office at 315-287-0331.

The Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 will hold its Annual Flag Day Ceremony in the Gouverneur Village Park starting at 12:30 p.m. to celebrate the anniversary of the flag’s birth and to recall the achievements attained beneath its folds. The public is welcomed and encouraged to attend. The ceremony will be conducted at the bandstand, as is tradition.

At 1 p.m., the Gouverneur Masonic Lodge No. 217 will start to serve its Flag Day Chicken BBQ, take-out only, available from the Masonic Temple on Trinity Ave. in Gouverneur. See details in related ad inside this edition.

At 1 p.m., parade participants are invited to head to Wilson St. to Johnstown St. to lineup for the Annual Flag Day Parade. The Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce is inviting all who wish to participate to join in the fun this year – local dignitaries, classic/antique vehicles, area children riding bicycles, local businesses and organizations, school marching bands, and others. The Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce will also award a $50 check to the most patriotic float in the parade. As in the past, the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce asks anyone with candy for the children to pass it out instead of tossing it into the street. The Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce invites all to join (either as parade participant or spectator) to make this parade the best one yet!

At 2 p.m., the parade will commence from Wilson St./Johnstown St. and turn down Main Street traveling across the Route 11 bridge toward the Gouverneur Village Park. The parade will disembark at the Northern Credit Union Parking Lot.

Spectators are encouraged to lineup along the parade route and enjoy the parade. The Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce has ordered 300 American Flags, and they will be distributed in advance of the parade. All are encouraged to arrive early at the Gouverneur Village Park to enjoy the festivities.

Don’t miss a moment of the fun during the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce sponsored Annual Flag Day Parade and Business Extravaganza in the Gouverneur Village Park this Saturday, June 11! For more information about the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce, visit gouverneurchamber.net.

Memorial Day observance in Gouverneur to be held on May 30

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur community is invited and encouraged to attend the Memorial Day Observance in Gouverneur will be held on Monday, May 30, starting at 10 a.m. in downtown Gouverneur.

The observance is annually organized jointly by the Silas Wainwright VFW Post No. 6338 in Gouverneur and the James Maloy American Legion Post No. 65 in Gouverneur. The 2022 Memorial Day observance is hosted by the Silas Wainwright VFW Post No. 6338.

VFW Commander John Holt informed the Gouverneur Tribune Press this week that the 2022 Gouverneur Memorial Day observance will start with the annual Memorial Day parade. Lineup will once again be at 9:30 a.m. on Rock Island Road in Gouverneur. There will be coffee and donuts for parade participants at the James Maloy American Legion Post No. 65 beforehand.

At the 10 a.m. start time, the parade will turn onto Route 11 and will travel the parade route past the Gouverneur Village Park. The 2022 Parade Marshal will be Roland Roderick. The U.S. Navy Wreath presentation will be at the Route 11 bridge over the Oswegatchie to salute the dead. The parade will then turn left onto Hailesboro St. to Riverside Cemetery where the 2022 Gouverneur Memorial Day Ceremony will be held.

Commander Holt confirmed that the Gouverneur Wildcat Marching Band will be featured in the Memorial Day Parade, and will provide music at the ceremony to follow at Riverside Cemetery (William St., Gouverneur).

Invitations were sent to local dignitaries, and the Village of Gouverneur and the Town of Gouverneur shared details of the annual observance at their respective monthly meetings.

All those in attendance at the Gouverneur Memorial Day Observance will be invited to a luncheon at the Gouverneur VFW Hall, 100 W. Main St., Gouverneur, following the Memorial Day ceremony.

In addition to the 2022 Gouverneur Memorial Day observance, the Silas Wainwright VFW Post No. 6338 will also host Memorial Day ceremonies at Brasie Corners and in the Town of Edwards. North Country community members are encouraged to attend those observances as well. Further details will be reported when information is received by the Gouverneur Tribune Press.

Gouverneur CSD budget proposal calls for 1.5 percent tax levy increase

by Rachel Hunter

Gouverneur Central School District Superintendent of Schools Jacquelyn Kelly presented the final budget proposal for 2022-2023 at the budget hearing on Monday, May 9.

The $41,316,007 budget includes spending increases in staffing, employee benefits, BOCES, equipment purchases and other items. The district is appropriating fund balance and using reserves to minimize the tax levy in the amount of $4,033,445. The tax levy is $6,787,112, an increase of 1.5 percent ($100,283). In the 2021-22 Budget Year, the tax levy was set at $6,686,829, a 2.94 percent increase ($90,677). The Gouverneur Central School District also anticipates a 5.35 percent increase in State Aid for a total of $30,093,545.

The budget was presented in three parts, as per Sections 207 and 2601-a of the Education Law and as amended by Section 15 of Chapter 171 of the Laws of 1996.

There will be a decrease in the administrative component of $238,124, for a total of $4,700,567, which represents 11.38 percent of the total budget. The administrative component includes expenses for office and administrative costs, salaries and benefits for certified school administrators who spend 50 percent or more of their time performing supervisory duties, data processing, public information, legal fees, property insurance, and school board expenses.

In the Program Component, the budget proposal calls for an increase of $2,290,643 for a total of $28,327,442. This represents 68.56 percent of the total budget. This portion includes salaries and benefits of teachers and supervisors who spend the majority of their time teaching, such instructional costs as supplies, equipment and textbooks, co-curricular activities and interscholastic athletics, staff development, and transportation operating costs.

In the Capital Component, the budget proposal calls for a decrease of $696,086, for a total of $8.288,998. This represents 20.06 percent of the total budget. This covers all school bus purchases, debt service on buildings, and leasing costs, tax certiorari and court-ordered costs, and all facility costs, including salaries and benefits of the custodial staff, service contracts, maintenance supplies and equipment, and utilities.

The financial impact on property owners is as follows: For those with a $60,000 home value, a $11.97 increase. The increase with Basic STAR is $5.98. The increase with Enhanced STAR is $0. For those with a $100,000 home value, a $19.95 increase. The increase with Basic Star is $13.96. The increase with Enhanced STAR is $7.54.

Gouverneur Central School District Superintendent of Schools Jacquelyn Kelly said that the budget supports the District’s long-term goals, which were reported as follows: “Goal #1: Our first goal is to bring consistency to curriculum decisions across grade levels and provide appropriate professional development to support those curriculum decisions. Our primary focus will be on developing the foundational skills necessary for students to effectively read and write.

“Goal #2: Our second goal is to provide the social emotional support and academic opportunities necessary for all students to be engaged in school and find success.

“Goal #3: Finally, we will provide a continuum of Special Education services district-wide to support the needs of all our students.”

Supt. Kelly continued, “The proposed budget focuses on preserving the strong educational programming, safe and secure environments, and extracurricular activities that our community has supported over the years. This budget also provides for additional academic support for all students. This is a fiscally responsible and educationally sound spending plan that focuses on providing the academic supports necessary for all students to be successful. This budget will support needs created as a disruption to education due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the addition of: a Math Academic Intervention Services (AIS) teacher, two (2) Special Education teachers, an Art teacher, a Business teacher, and a Social Studies teacher.”

The Gouverneur Central School District Budget Vote and Board of Education Member Election will be held on Tuesday, May 17, noon to 8 p.m. at the Gouverneur High School. All voters are also encouraged to check out the GHS Art Show in the GHS Auxiliary gymnasium.

Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press are reminded that there are three seats open for the school board, and two incumbents’ names will appear on the ballot – Dr. William Cartwright and Naaman Lowry. The candidates’ biographical sketches can be found on the District website at gcsk12.org. As of press deadline this week, two candidates have informed the Gouverneur Tribune Press of their write-in campaign, Steve Jackson of Gouverneur and Mark Hendrick of Gouverneur. The vacancies will be filled by the three candidates with the most votes, to include any write-in candidates. For more information, visit gcsk12.org.

Town of Gouverneur Council holds moment of silence in memory of Deputy Supervisor Eldon Conklin

by Rachel Hunter

The Town of Gouverneur Council held a moment of silence and remembrance at the town flagpole in memory of Eldon Conklin before its May 10 town board meeting. Pictured (from left): Town of Gouverneur Highway Superintendent, Town of Gouverneur Data Collector Phyllis Shaw, Town of Gouverneur Councilman Curran Wade, Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall, Town of Gouverneur Assessor Sherry Geer, Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr. Village of Gouverneur Trustee Troy Besaw, Town of Gouverneur Councilwoman Jaimee McQuade, Gouverneur Dog Control Officer/Beaver Control Specialist Dan Moyer, Town of Gouverneur Bookkeeper Diane Kelley, Gouverneur Town Clerk, Town of Gouverneur Councilman Jay Bowhall. (Rachel Hunter photo)

The Town of Gouverneur honored the memory of Eldon Conklin, elected town councilman and appointed deputy supervisor, at the May 10 council meeting with a moment of silence and the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance at the Town of Gouverneur flagpole.

Eldon Conklin passed away at his Depot St. home in Gouverneur at 3:45 p.m. on Friday, May 6 at the age of 92. (See the full obituary inside this edition.)

At the start of the town council meeting, Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr. urged all in attendance to meet at the town flagpole adjacent to the Town of Gouverneur parking lot.

Supervisor Spilman told the crowd gathered that it was Eldon Conklin’s vision to have a 50-foot flagpole installed so the American Flag could be properly displayed at the Town of Gouverneur Offices building, 1227 US Highway 11, Gouverneur. And that vision became a reality in 2021. The Town of Gouverneur Highway Department worked in cooperation with the Village of Gouverneur Department of Public Works to install the 50-foot flagpole, and it was designed to be a daily reminder of the ultimate sacrifices that the 9/11 victims and our American servicemembers have given in the name of freedom. It was dedicated in a special ceremony to Eldon Conklin “for his many years of community service and never-ending commitment to our community.”

Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr. arrived at the Town of Gouverneur Offices Building on the morning of Saturday, May 7 and lowered the American Flag to half-staff. Supervisor Spilman at the May 10 town board meeting said he saw no more fitting tribute. The crowd gathered then, with eyes raised toward the American Flag and hand over their heart, recited the Pledge of Allegiance: “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

The Town of Gouverneur Council then returned to the Town of Gouverneur Offices building and a moment of silence was held in Eldon Conklin’s memory.

Those in attendance included Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr., Town of Gouverneur Councilman Curran Wade, Town of Gouverneur Councilman Jay Bowhall, Town of Gouverneur Councilwoman Jaimee McQuade, Gouverneur Town Clerk Marion Bowhall, Gouverneur Town Bookkeeper Diane Kelley, Town of Gouverneur Assessor Sherry Geer, Town of Gouverneur Data Collector Phyllis Shaw, Town of Gouverneur Highway Superintendent David Perrigo, Gouverneur Dog Control Officer and Beaver Control Specialist Daniel Moyer, Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall, and Village of Gouverneur Trustee Troy Besaw.

The next regular meeting of the Town of Gouverneur Council will be held on Tuesday, June 14, 6 p.m., at the Town of Gouverneur Offices Building, 1227 US Highway 11, Gouverneur. For more information on the Town of Gouverneur, call 315-287-2340.

DeKalb Town Historian to present history of Coopers Fall Iron Company on May 16

Bryan Thompson, the DeKalb Town Historian, will present the history of the Coopers Falls Iron Company on May 16 at 7 p.m. at the Meetinghouse Museum, 696 E. Dekalb Rd., Dekalb Junction.

The lecture is free and everyone is welcome.

The Town of DeKalb Historical Association recently received an ingot produced at Coopers Falls Iron Company and Thompson has researched the history of the production process there.

Reminder: Buy tickets early for Chamber Banquet on May 4

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce is urging North Country residents to purchase advance sale tickets for the 2022 Chamber of Commerce Banquet. The banquet will be held on Wednesday, May 4, at the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035, 1419 US Highway 11, Gouverneur, starting at 6 p.m. (cocktail hour), 7 p.m. (turkey dinner), with the awards ceremony to follow.

The Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce will present its Award of Merit to Team Blevins and Blevins Ford. Also, Former Gouverneur Mayor/Gouverneur Town Councilman Curran Wade will serve as the guest speaker, to talk about the history of the LifeSavers monument in the Gouverneur Village Park. There is much anticipation for the return of this annual event.

The Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce wishes to remind local businesses and residents that there will be no tickets sold at the door this year. Advanced sale tickets are now available until May 3 at the Gouverneur Savings and Loan and the Gouverneur Community Bank, as well as the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce office. Tickets will only be available on May 4 through the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce Office. For more information, call 315-287-0331. Tickets are also available online at gouverneurchamber.net.

Village of Gouverneur urged to increase transparency in local government

by Rachel Hunter

The Village of Gouverneur at the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees meeting on Tuesday, March 15 was urged by Village Trustee Troy Besaw to increase its transparency in local government.

The topic was raised six months after NYS Gov. Kathy Hochul, in late October 2021, signed two pieces of legislation boosting transparence in state and local government. The first piece of legislation required documents that are going to be discussed at open meetings to be made available on request or posted on the government's website at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. The second piece of legislation requires the MTA to publish its data in formats that are easily accessible and can be easily downloaded and used by the public.

"There's no excuse for keeping New Yorkers in the dark on the actions governments take to help their constituents, and we've been committed to greater transparency since Day One," Governor Hochul said. "These pieces of legislation will require important local government documents and MTA data to be properly available for constituents to read and utilize. New Yorkers should be informed about the work government does for them every day, but we have to make it easier for them to get that information."

The first legislation is “Making Documents Available Prior to Open Meetings (S.1150-A/A.1228-A).” This legislation makes documents to be discussed at open meetings available to the public at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting. The Open Meetings Law is intended to empower the public through the accessibility of meetings of public bodies. The law requires them to make available to the public relevant documents, such as any proposed rule, regulation, or resolution. However, the current law only requires documents to be made available prior to meetings "as determined by the agency or department." This standard has resulted in some government bodies failing to make materials available in advance of meetings, reducing transparency. This legislation requires any proposed resolution, law, rule, regulation, policy, or amendment to be made available upon request and to be posted to the body's website at least 24 hours in advance of their discussion at an open meeting, giving the public access to these important documents in advance.

At the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees meeting on March 15, 2022, Village Trustee Troy Besaw said the following: “Mayor, I came across that the governor put out a mandate that we had to post our agenda 24 hours prior to a meeting, and the meeting minutes had to be posted by 15 days following the meeting date. We are not doing that.”

“Is that an actual law now or is that a proposal?” Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall asked.

“That’s an actual law,” Trustee Besaw said.

The Gouverneur Tribune Press raised the question in late 2021 to local municipalities, asking how they were going to adhere to the new regulations. While comments were made regarding the difficulty of the mandate, no further comments were made in public session. The Town of Gouverneur has made changes to its website that would potentially allow for the prompt posting of monthly agendas and related documents. But there has been no changes made to the Village of Gouverneur website. The latest meeting minutes published and posted for the public’s viewing online by the Village of Gouverneur was in September 2018.

The Open Meeting Law, revised in February 2022, states the following: “If the agency in which a public body function maintains a regularly and routinely updated website and utilizes a high-speed internet connection, such minutes shall be posted on the website within two weeks from the date of such meeting…” In the same subsection, the law states that unabridged video recordings or unabridged audio recordings or unabridged written transcripts may be deemed to be meeting minutes. The law also states: “Nothing in this section shall require the creation of minutes if the public body would not otherwise take them.” The full Open Meeting Law document is available for viewing at opengovernment.ny.gov.

After some discussion, Village of Gouverneur Trustee Troy Besaw once again encouraged the Village of Gouverneur to follow the new regulations for the prompt posting of agendas, meeting documents, and meeting minutes.

There was no further discussion on the matter.

The next regular meeting of the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees will be held on Tuesday, April 19, 6 p.m., in the municipal courtroom.

Gouverneur CSD Board of Education presents School Staff Recognition Award to GHS Art Instructor Robert Decker

Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education President David Fenlong presented the GCS Staff Recognition Award to GHS Art Teacher Robert Decker during the March 28 GCSD Board of Education meeting at the GHS auditorium. (Rachel Hunter photo)

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education at its March 28 meeting presented a 2021-22 School Staff Recognition Award to GHS Art Instructor Robert Decker.

GCSD Board of Education President David Fenlong said the following: “One of the things the board likes to do is recognize staff members who make a positive difference, and who are willing to go above and beyond their normal duties. This award is special as the recipient is recognized by their peers. The District Shared Decision-Making Committee receives nominees and has made the tough choice to come up with a winner for this evening. We had some great nominees, and tonight the winner is Mr. Robert Decker.”

Board President Fenlong then read the framed resolution as follows: “Whereas, The efforts of the Gouverneur Central School District Instructional Staff are essential to the successful operation of the District’s schools and programs, and

Allison Carvel as Cinderella performing in the GHS’ production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella. Behind her is just one of the set pieces created by GHS Art Instructor Robert Decker, who was recently presented with a 2021-22 School Staff Recognition Award. Also pictured in the pit is Musical Director Kathy Buell. (Rachel Hunter photo)

“Whereas, The District Shared Decision-Making Team, in consideration of his nomination, recognizes Mr. Robert Decker as a worthy recipient of the Gouverneur Central School Staff Recognition Award for the 2021-22 school year, and

“Whereas, The District Shared Decision-Making Team determined Mr. Decker’s worthiness of this recognition because, “Mr. Decker has gone above and beyond by donating his time to build the marvelous sets for our school’s musicals over the years. He is kindhearted and very willing to create set pieces that take many, many hours to design, build and paint. He is often seen working late into the afternoons and evenings. The students and the directors really appreciate his dedication and hard work to put these together in such a short time. Our community will also enjoy all of his work when they come to the show,” and

“Therefore, The Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education recognized Robert Decker as a recipient of the Gouverneur Central School Staff Recognition Award for the 2021-22 school year. The Board of Education congratulates Mr. Decker on his nomination and award, and extends its appreciation for his dedication and service to the students and families of the Gouverneur Central School District.”

The resolution was approved on March 28, 2022 by the Board of Education of the Gouverneur Central School District.

Great applause sounded as the award was presented to Mr. Decker.

“Thank you for everything you have done for the District, Mr. Decker, as an art teacher, educator, and as well as for the musical,” Board President Fenlong said. “I went to the musical. Wonderful pieces. They really helped to bring the show together. We thank you for everything you do as an educator. You go above and beyond, so thank you again.”

Later in the meeting, GCSD Board of Education President David Fenlong said the following to GCSD Board of Education Student Representative Cole Siebels (who played Prince Topher in the GHS’ production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella): “I just want to say on behalf of the board how truly proud we are of how well you and Allison Carvel (as Cinderella) represented the District with your interview with WWNY, and also in your roles.”

“Thank you,” Mr. Siebels said. “We had a really good time putting on the show. I know a lot of people, including myself, were really nervous about this one. There were times when we thought we were a little bit behind, but everyone really came together and worked really hard. Of course, the set was amazing. On many occasions, students would talk and say (GHS Art Instructor Robert Decker) is really keeping this show together with everything that he is doing. We were amazed at everything he did, and is very deserving of that award. We noticed many nights he would stay late into the night to finish the set pieces.” Mr. Siebels also commended the dedication of GHS Musical Director Emily Bason, and Musical Directors, Kathy and Paul Buell. “I think this is the beginning of seeing our numbers increase. I know a lot of younger people who are really interested in these musicals now and want to be a part of them. I think we did a good job promoting the shows, and I hope to see it continue and have more support into the future.”

In conclusion, President Fenlong commended all those involved in the GHS Musical on its great success. He then mentioned that the next theatre production in the Gouverneur community will be when Missoula Children’s Theatre, a professional theater company with costumes and sets, puts on a camp on July 25-30, 2022. The camp is open to all youth in grades Kindergarten through Grade 12. The opportunity is presented through the Gouverneur Recreation Department. Registration starts May 1. For more info, call Recreation Director Casey Canell at 315-287-0524.

For more information about Gouverneur Central School District, visit gcsk12.org.

Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education approves personnel changes

by Rachel Hunter

Upon the presentation and recommendation of Gouverneur Central School District Superintendent of Schools Jacquelyn Kelly, the GCSD Board of Education at its March 28 meeting approved the following personnel items as a consent agenda:

The Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education approved the resignation request from Michelle Benda, Physical Education teacher, effective June 24, 2022.

The Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education approved the resignation request of Lauren VanCour, School Social Worker, effective April 17, 2022.

The Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education also approved several appointments. They are as following: Instructional – The school board approved Caitlyn A. Sullivan, Elementary Teacher in the PreK-6 Elementary Tenure Area, for a four-year probationary period commencing on April 4, 2022. Ms. Sullivan’s initial assignment is Grade 3. Extra Duty: The school board approved Brandon Griffin as an instructor for middle school afterschool tutoring. Substitutes: The school board approved the following substitutes: Madison Brooks, Logan Garrison, Luke Gates, Alyssa Gilbert, Kylie Helvie, Christal Mann, Kaylee Ordway, Brooke Richards, Sarah Shepherd, Kiesha Smith, April Sochia, and Hannah Stowell. Student Lifeguards: The school board also appointed the following student lifeguards: Sierra Billings and Gage Cornell.

The Gouverneur Central School District also approved the appointment of Polly Sergel, who is provisionally certified in Literacy (Grades 5-12) and permanently certified in Agriculture, as the long-term substitute for a leave-of-absence employee. Later in the meeting, the school board acknowledged the paid and unpaid medical leave of absence.

The Gouverneur Central School Board of Education also extended the unpaid Child Rearing Leave of Absence for a probationary employee from February 28, 2022 through April 8, 2022 (previously scheduled to end April 1, 2022), in accordance with Article 12.3 of the contract with the Gouverneur Teachers’ Association.

Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education President David Fenlong said: “We definitely want to wish congratulations to everyone who was appointed. And we want to thank Michelle Benda for her 32 years with the District and everything she has done here. We wish everybody well.”

The next meeting of the Gouverneur Central School District will be held on Monday, April 11, 5:30 p.m., in the GHS Auditorium. For more information about Gouverneur Central School District, visit gcsk12.org.

VFW Post 6338 Auxiliary celebrates 75-year milestone

by Rachel Hunter

At the Silas Wainwright VFW Post No. 6338 Anniversary Dinner celebration on Saturday, March 12, the VFW Auxiliary was recognized for its 75th anniversary. In attendance were the following: Post Commander John Holt, Auxiliary Conductress and Patriotic Instructor Julie Holt, VFW Post 6338 Auxiliary/District 9 President President Jeff Platt, VFW Auxiliary Treasurer Sara Platt, VFW Auxiliary Chaplain Ruth Mead, VFW Post 6338 Jr. Vice Commander Karl Beck, and VFW Trustee Rob Sargent as well as NYS Assemblyman Kenneth Blankenbush (R,C,I-Black River) and NYS Senator Patty Ritchie Representative Kevin Wells. Other VFW committee members present included Post Sr. Vice Commander Roland Roderick and VFW Auxiliary Sr. Vice President and Kitchen Chair Melissa Simione. Also present was Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall.

After a scrumptious ham dinner and dessert served by the VFW Auxiliary Kitchen Staff, VFW Auxiliary Treasurer Sara Platt gave the history of the VFW Auxiliary in part as follows: “Twenty-eight ladies met on March 10, 1947 for an informal meeting to form the auxiliary. The ladies from Watertown and Ogdensburg that were to do the installation were not able to attend that day so the installation was on March 26, 1947 at the post room over the Sunshine store. The first dues record book shows 32 charter members with 3 more ladies joining in April.

“The ladies became very active in fundraising right away, with lots of raffles and bingo, as well as selling a variety of items. Some of the items raffled then might not be as popular as a prize today were a toaster, an iron, a piece of luggage, purse, punch bowl set, picnic pack, electric percolator, thermal blanket, clock, deer lamp, and a lace tablecloth. Their first raffle tickets were ten cents each or three for twenty-five cents. The prize was a portable radio and they made a profit of $100. Items they sold were ballpoint pens, Stanley products, fruitcakes, Sue Mackin products which were sold until 1968, billfolds, holiday napkins, and had a merchandising club. They also had card parties and played quizzo games. An interesting note I saw on bingo was in April 1951 the police chief said: “No more bingo.” But in September 1951, they started bingo again. Perhaps that is when registering with the village clerk began. I remember when the post and auxiliary started bingo again in 1979 paperwork had to be done each week. That time, bingo ran for 13 years until October 1992 with the auxiliary assisting the post weekly.

“National programs they participated in that we still do today include Buddy Poppy, Hospital, Youth, National Home for Children, and Essay Contests. The first poppy drive was held in 1947 with a profit of $114.75 after paying for the poppies. It was noted in a May 1955 article in the Gouverneur paper that they had given over $5,000 to worthy cause in the first eight years. This included dental work for children, purchasing an oxygen tent and contributing to the purchase of an iron lung for the E. J. Noble Hospital in Gouverneur. Televisions were donated to Sunmount Hospital as well as many items on several occasions donated to the veteran who were patients in Sunmount. In more recent years our donations for the hospitalized veterans have gone to the Syracuse VA Hospital. We have donated flags to some local organizations and businesses over the years. The ones I noticed mentioned in the minutes were Cambray Court, Gouverneur Rescue Squad, Kinney Nursing Home, Girl Scout troops, the People’s Place and the Purple Toad. In the 1950s, Auxiliary 6338 had a state winner in the essay contest. In 2019, we had a state winner in the patriotic art contest. We have had several students place first, second, or third in district over the years with the first place moving on to state. Over the past 74 years, 10 of our members have served as county council president. In St. Lawrence County Council, Barbara Scott (1952-53), Doris Rumble (1960-61), Gertrude Simmons (1964-65), Rose Rowe (1968-69), Virda Crandall (1970-71), Betty Benjamin (1980-81), Betty Jean Turnbull (1984-85), Agnes Marchione (1986-87), Vickie Foote (1988-89), and Marlene Webster (2000-01). In Mohawk Adirondack County Council, Marlene Webster (2009-2010). Five members have served as district president: In District 4, Gertrude Simmons (1967-68), Agnes Marchione (1984-85), Betty Jean Turnbull (1988-1989), Marlene Webster (2010-2011). In District 9, Marlene Webster (2019-2020), and Jeff Platt (2021-2022).

“Some of the other activities that were started years ago that are still done are as follows: In April 1960, Mildred Gassett suggested a teacher’s tea to honor a retiring teacher. Lillian Todd was selected as the first recipient. Rhoda DeJourdan was chairman of the tea the second year and Lucille Pritty the third. I believe from 1963 on Rhoda was the chairman until she was unable to do so in 1978 when Doris Young served as chairman. In 1979, Betty Benjamin became chairman and served in that position for the next several years. We now honor all the retiring teachers each year as well as other school staff. We have missed the tea for the past two years, but hopefully we will be able to honor the retirees again soon.

“In the 1960s, a mitten tree was done for the VFW National Home for Children. We still do a collection of hats and mittens each December but they are given to the local school children at Head Start and the elementary school. We are fortunate to have two ladies who keep busy with a crochet hook. Thank you Linda McEathron and Ruth Mead, and thank you to all the members who donate to this project.

“In the 1940s and 50s and until 1988, Halloween and Christmas parties were held for the children of the post, auxiliary and Dad’s members. The records say there was no party in 1991, but in 1992 the auxiliary started hosting a Halloween party for all area children and that is an event we still hold each year. In November 1989, Virda Crandall organized a craft fair as a way to raise money for the auxiliary. They are still held the first Saturday of December each year. In December 1963, it was decided to hold a three-way Christmas party for the post, auxiliary and Dad’s. The post and auxiliary continue this tradition each December and that is also the day the auxiliary presents the membership pins to auxiliary members for 5, 10, 15, and so on years of membership.

“In the afternoon on Memorial Day, we still do a service at the grave of Silas Wainwright in Brasie Corners. When I first joined the auxiliary, the American Legion went with us, then we went on to Rossie with them for a service at James Maloy’s grave. It was noted in the May 1990 minutes that Rachel Devendorf, Silas’ sister had asked that we please go to Rossie first so that when we finished the service for Silas we could day and visit with the family. We usually had to hurry away to Rossie where there was usually no Maloy family waiting. From the start, the auxiliary has always tried to help with the purchase of items needed in the kitchen or around the club. Several times in going through the minutes, it was noted a donation to help pay for the refrigerator so I guess we have through a few of them over the years. Some of the other items the auxiliary has contributed to or purchased are stove, sink, dish sets, drapes, linoleum, hot water heater, ladies room dressing table and decorating in the original club rooms. At this post home over the years, we have purchased or donated toward a copier, two stainless steel sinks, curtains, food chopper, electric frying pan, kitchen stool, picnic table, mirror in the bar room, air conditioner, the insulating of the bar and entryway, drop ceiling and florescent lights in the front room, and an automatic glass washer along with many kitchen supplies. In 1989, we purchased the cement for the side door ramp and in 2002, the outdoor sign. We have also donated toward heating fuel and the electric bill several times.

“There are also some activities from the past that are no longer done. In 1951, a food stand was started at the fair with members of the post, auxiliary, and Dad’s working together. It was noted the first year the auxiliary’s share of the profit was $21. The last year I saw working at the fair food tent mentioned was 1975 with a profit that year of $1620.93. In 1955, members took part of the civil defense watch. In 1968, there was a donation to radio-free Europe. In the 1960s, packages were sent to the troops in Vietnam, and in 1991 to those in Desert Storm. On February 10, 1972, a group of 18 ladies met to organize a marching unit to represent the auxiliary. Julie Allen was chosen as president with Thelma Smith serving as sergeant at arms. They chose the name Blue Brigade and began raising funds to purchase uniforms. In three and a half months, they raised $1,1000 of the $1,300 needed. Their first parade was May 1972 Memorial Day Parade. They marched in 13 parades the first year. I believe the brigade disbanded in 1979 as it was mentioned they marched in November 1978 with 25 members.

“A few other things I read in the minutes that I found interesting: In 1960, the auxiliary was invited to parade at the international celebration in Ogdensburg on July 2. The Canadians were to present us with a flag. It was noted this was the first time in history it had happened so it required special permission from the queen. In 1972, we received an invitation to send a representative to a meeting to be held in April at the Bank of Gouverneur for the purpose of establishing a museum. In January 1949, there was a dedication of the charcoal painting of Silas Wainwright done by Min Washburn. In June, an open house was held the community to see the painting. In March 1959, it was noted that among the few things salvaged from the fire were two tables, 36 chairs, the auxiliary flags, and the picture of Silas. On May 16, 1960, there was an open house for members to see the new club rooms, and for the public on May 29.

“Retaining current members and recruiting new members has been an ongoing project of the auxiliary since 1947. In May 1951, our members took part in the installation of Edwards Auxiliary 9484 and in February 1991 Betty Jean Turnbull of our auxiliary helped set up Hammon Morristown Auxiliary 10515. Unfortunately in years since, both of these auxiliaries have disbanded but several members from each transferred to our auxiliary as well as members of Theresa Auxiliary 6655 when it disbanded. In July 2015, when our named was changed from ladies auxiliary to auxiliary and male relatives of veterans were allowed to join, we were able to increase our membership. Our current membership is 209, but it has been higher. In June 1987, 295 members gave use 100 percent plus 21. In June 1992, membership was 302. In March of 1968 with 193 members, our auxiliary had the highest membership in District 4 and in October 1970 with 200 members we were the largest in New York State. We are now in District 9 and can once again say that we have the highest membership in the district. However, District 9 only has nine auxiliaries and we could not claim that if we were still in District 4. We are always looking for new members. So if anyone would be interested in joining our auxiliary member, please see one of our members for an application form.

“In September 1978, we were asked about selecting an auxiliary member of the year. I don’t remember why it was not done at that time, but in 1986 it was started and has continued with the exception of 2021 due to COVID-19 restriction on being able to hold a celebration. Congratulations to our 36th recipient and to Silas Wainwright VFW Auxiliary to Post 6338 on your 75th Anniversary.”

The past presidents of the Auxiliary to VFW Post 6338 are as follows: Mary Sterling (1947-48), Alma Rumble (1948-49), Barbara Scott (1949-50), Audrey Carpenter (1950-51), Marjorie Dier (1951-52), Maybelle Pistolesi (1952-53), Doris Sigourney (1953-54), Ruth Boscoe (1954-55), Betty Marwick (1955-56), Olive Ann Hopper (1956-57), Doris Rumble (1957-58), Evelyn Pickert (1958-59), Mildred Gassett (1959-60), Gertrude Simmons (1960-61), Virda Crandall (1961-62), Rhoda Dejourdan (1962-63), Lucille Pritty (1963-64), Rose Rowe (1964-65), Ruth Cahoon (1965-66), Nina Erickson (1966-67), Edna Klock (1967-68), Irene Glasford (1968-69), Gladys McCready (1969-70), Julie Allen (1970-71), Thema McIntosh (1971-72), Thelma Smith (1972-73), Marjorie Gibson (1973-74), Kathleen Goodale (1974-75), Rosalie McEathron (1975-76), Betty Benjamin (1976-78), Doris Young (1978-80), Betty Jeanne Turnbull (1980-81), Agnes Marchione (1981-82), Nellie Stowell (1982-83), Marge Gibson (1983-84), Patricia Hamilton (1984-85), Louise Cahoon (1985-86), Doris Knight (1986-87), Vickie Foote (1987-88), Dorothy Macaulay (1988-89), Sue Porter (1989-91), Nellie Stowell (1991-92), Vickie Foote (1992-95), Trudie Dusharm (1995-96), Mary Shrewsberry (1996-98), Sylvia Donaldson (1998-99), Marlene Webster (1999-2002), Trudie Dusharm (2002-03), Marlene Webster (2003-04), Rosalie McEathron (2004-06), Robin Jarboe (2006-07), Marlene Webster (2008-2011), Debbie Walsh (2011-13), Diane McDougall (2013-15), Renee Martin (2015-16), Melissa Simione (2016-17), Tiffany Waite (2017-18), and Jeff Platt (2018 to present).

A plaque and citation in recognition the Auxiliary to Silas Wainwright VFW Post 6338 was presented during the ceremony by the VFW Auxiliary Department of New York. The following letter from Darlene Baker, Chaplain of the VFW Auxiliary Department of New York, by the order of President Ruth Huber, was read in part as follows: “Your auxiliary has maintained its membership and participated in auxiliary programs for 75 years. You are all to be commended for your dedication and support of our veterans and their families for all these years. The Post and Auxiliary work harmoniously with each other and have accomplished great things. Many changes have occurred within our organization since March 30, 1947. The most notable is the eligibility of men to join our great organization. While the name may have changed from Ladies Auxiliary to VFW Auxiliary, our mission has remained the same to serve veterans and their families… On behalf of the Department of New York, I present the citation to mark your 75th anniversary. On this momentous occasion, you should be proud to be part of this milestone anniversary. Best wishes on continued success and your participation in this great organization. Thank you for your courtesies extended to me. We stand… “united to defend the freedom of veterans and their families.”” The plaque and citation were accepted on behalf of the Auxiliary to VFW Post 6338 by President Jeff Platt.

During the momentous occasion, the Auxiliary to VFW Post 6338 was also presented physical copies resolutions from the New York State Assembly (presented by Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush) and New York State Senate (from New York State Senator Patty Ritchie, presented by Senator Ritchie’s representative Kevin Wells). The resolutions also commemorated the milestone 75th Anniversary of VFW Post 6338, which was celebrated in 2021.

Many words of congratulations were extended to the Auxiliary of VFW Post 6338 in recognition of their 75th anniversary.

Village of Gouverneur proclaims “Nort Taylor Day”

by Rachel Hunter

The Village of Gouverneur has declared “Nort Taylor Day” in Gouverneur on his 100th birthday – Thursday, April 7, 2022.

Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall made the declaration with the full support of the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees at the March 15 meeting. Mayor McDougall said plans have long been in the works to make Gouverneur native Norton Warren Taylor’s 100th birthday an occasion to remember. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, Mr. Taylor’s family decided to hold a drive-by celebration in lieu of a party at the Gouverneur Community Center.

The entire Gouverneur community is invited to participate in the drive-by celebration, which is planned for Thursday, April 7, 2022 with line-up at the Gouverneur Elementary School parking lot at 5:45 p.m. The parade will go by Mr. Taylor’s residence. A birthday card shower has also been organized. Those who wish to join the fun are encouraged to send cards to Mr. Taylor at 31 Meadow Lane, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees will hold its budget hearing on April 7, 4 p.m., with a special board meeting to follow. The next monthly meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 19, 6 p.m., at the municipal courtroom.