2023 Walk: Over $150,000 raised to support North Country breast, ovarian cancer patients

by Rachel Hunter

The North Country community arrived in the Gouverneur Village Park on Saturday, October 7 in strong support of the Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund at its 22nd annual walk.

It is estimated that over $150,000 was raised in support of the fund’s mission to provide financial assistance to those fighting Breast or Ovarian cancer or a cancer that has metastasized from those cancers. The Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund assists individuals who live in St. Lawrence, Jefferson, Lewis, and Franklin counties providing financial assistance with household, medical, travel, and living expenses during a patient's treatment of those cancers. Every penny of support goes directly to assist newly diagnosed patients with their recovery.

The 2023 Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Walk – as is becoming an annual tradition – is held during October (Breast Cancer Awareness Month) to help promote screening and prevention of the disease, which affects one in eight women in the United States every year and 2.3 million women worldwide. It falls soon after Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month each September, the second most common gynecologic cancer and the most deadly one in the country. The sea of pink and teal quickly amassed in the Gouverneur Village Park on Saturday morning, as hundreds gathered joined cancer survivors in walking in honor of a loved one battling cancer or in memory of someone lost to cancer. Pre-registration numbers grew over 100 persons strong before the 2023 walk, with hundreds more registering in-person. The first 300 persons to register received a thank-you bag filled with goodies from the Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund and local sponsors. Each person who had over $40 in pledges donated received a free 2023 Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund T-shirt.

First Student Bus Garage of Gouverneur donating its services to all walkers starting at 9 a.m. through the end of the walk ceremonies at the Riverview Recreational Park. Many North Country residents took advantage of the service both to the Gouverneur Village Park and on the return trip following the ceremonies and raffle drawings. Much gratitude was extended to First Student of Gouverneur for its generous donation.

From breakfast available from Dunkin’ in Gouverneur to pink and teal hair extensions and informational booths from medical centers and organizations, there was something for everyone to do in the Gouverneur Village Park. Tickets were available for the Big Button Raffle (featuring hundreds of items from local businesses, artists/crafters, and more) the big raffle (featuring a 22-inch Leslie’s rose gold necklace with a Rose Gold Ribbon with a pink Sapphire and Teal Diamond with accent diamonds (retail value over $2,300), hand designed and set by Harland Brown of Brown’s Jewelry in Gouverneur). New this year, attendees had the opportunity to purchase pink and teal gumballs for a quarter donation.

The 2023 Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund Walk – held annually rain or shine – saw a great turnout, despite the inclement rainy conditions. Pink and teal raincoats, umbrellas and other seasonable attire could be seen throughout the Gouverneur Village Park as the opening ceremonies began. The Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund Committee welcomed all those in attendance, including several local dignitaries: New York State Assemblyman (116th District) Scott Gray, Gouverneur Village Mayor Ron McDougall, Town Councilman Curran Wade, Town Councilwoman Lory Whitton, Village Trustee Floyd McAdam, among others.

The crowd was energized by local media personalities, Community Broadcasters’ Johnny Spezzano and WWNY-TV’s Makenzie Piatt, at the onset of the opening ceremonies. The Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund Committee and its guests this year were on a raised platform from KT Contracting in Gouverneur, due to the recent improvements to the Gouverneur Village Park. Mayor McDougall promised that the Kinney Gazebo would be installed by the 2024 Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund Walk. The national anthem was performed by Deb Ward of Gouverneur.

The guest speaker was Lynn Tharrett of Massena. “I absolutely love seeing the sea of pink and teal. It is so heartwarming to see everybody here today… This is my ninth year as a breast cancer survivor. I want to start off today by thanking this amazing organization. They have supported me ever since the very beginning. Terry Pistolesi reached out to me when I was first diagnosed in 2014, and she and all of these lovely women have been by my side since. I cannot thank them enough for all that they have done for me, and for the women in our four counties. Thank you.

“When you are little, everyone always asks you what you want to be when you grow up. I knew from a young age that I wanted to be a teacher… but I never remember thinking that I wanted to be a cancer survivor. Yet, from the young age of 22, cancer has been something that has defined pretty much who I am today. In fact, it has defined me just as much as being a fifth grade teacher for 20 years has. It can’t be helped, because what we do and who we surround ourselves with, the decisions that we make, and the major events in our lives shape us like a ball of clay. At 22, I was diagnosed with Stage 2B Hodgkins Lymphoma. I went through nine months of chemotherapy and came out a survivor five years later. When I was 36, I lost my dad to esophageal cancer at the veery young age of 58. At 42, I was diagnosed with HER2- multifocal, invasive ductal breast cancer. Since that time, my breast cancer has been back in my bones and my pleural cavity in 2017, 2019, and this past spring. Last December, I had to say goodbye to my best friend, my mom, also from cancer at the age of 69 – again, way too young. I guess you could say that life has handed me lots of lemons, especially in the form of cancer. I refuse to let it hold me down, because what I have learned through all of this, is that we all matter. But it is also what you make from those lemons that is going to define you. It is going to define who you are, what you do, and how you survive this thing called life. So today, I am encouraging all of you to take your lemons and turn them into pink lemonade with me. Thank you.”

The Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund Committee was then introduced, including Mona Allen, Judy Bush, Tammy Blevins, Marilyn LaPierre, Bridgette LaPierre, Joey Shelly, and Terry Pistolesi. Much applause sounded for the work that the committee does all year-round.

Mrs. Pistolesi then took the microphone and said the following address: “Thank you so much for coming out today. It is more than we anticipated, considering the weather. Every one of you showed up. That’s what I wanted to say today. I heard from a friend that the most important thing to her when she was sick was people showing up. And I have not been able to forget that. It’s not just showing up today. It’s not showing up the day of diagnosis. But it is showing up when they are going through chemo. It is taking five minutes to send a note to say hello or making that phone call that most of us tend to forget… Show up. All of you today have shown up for every survivor, for everyone who is fighting this disease, and for everyone that we are honoring today in our memory. Thank you so much for showing up. It means more to all of us than you will ever know...”

The opening prayer was then offered by Fr. James “Jay” Seymour of St. James Catholic Church in Gouverneur. The prayer of hope and comfort was taken from Psalm 62.

The sea of pink and teal then mustered out toward East Main Street in Gouverneur to start the one-mile walk to Mills Park, before crossing the pedestrian footbridge to the Riverview Recreational Park in Gouverneur. The walk was led by the Gouverneur Police Department, driven by Officer Sheen, in the GPD-412 apparatus. Next was the Superior Plus Propane’s “Delivering Hope” truck, followed by the Gouverneur Fire Department, and the Gouverneur Rescue Squad. The GPD and GFD assisted with traffic control. Grove and Church streets were closed by barricades provided by the Village of Gouverneur. The sea of pink and teal upon arrival at the Riverview Recreational Park in Gouverneur enjoyed refreshments, the survivor ceremony, and raffle drawings.

Much gratitude is extended to all those who showed support of the 2023 Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund Walk, including over 80 local sponsors. Those who would still like to donate can mail their donation to: Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund, PO Box 64, Gouverneur, NY 13642. For more information, follow the Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund’s Facebook page.

Gouverneur Memorial Arch restoration work nearing completion

by Rachel Hunter

D B Masonry in Gouverneur has nearly completed all of the repairs needed at the War Memorial Arch in the Gouverneur Village Park.

Owner Naaman Lowry told the Gouverneur Tribune Press this week that 95 percent of the project’s work is done.

The Village of Gouverneur contracted with D B Masonry in Gouverneur for the project work, which included repairs and cleaning to the Memorial Arch in the Gouverneur Village Park. The project included grinding out and repointing old mortar joints, repairs to the concrete top, restore the marble corner on the southwest corner of the arch, and the cleaning and powerwashing of the monument. The project cost was estimated to cost over $30,000, which was funded through a grant secured through New York State Senator Patty Ritchie’s office in 2019 to allow the Village of Gouverneur to make a series of upgrades to the Gouverneur Village Park. Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall told the public that the Memorial Arch was the Village’s top priority in the list of items to be addressed. Other project work will include the installation of a new gazebo and other improvements in the Gouverneur Village Park. (It is estimated that the village park improvements will continue on Monday, October 9.)

D B Masonry in Gouverneur told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that the project was more involved and more expensive than previously projected, due to extensive amount of restoration work needed, especially at the top of structure.

“The grant was for $32,000. I had to do a change order for $7,800 because of the unsuspecting cracks in the stone that I had to fix,” Mr. Lowry said, explaining that it added to the materials cost and the estimated project time. The project was delayed from its original schedule due to backordered materials and supply chain shortages.

The repair and restoration work was daunting, but D B Masonry tackled it head-on this summer. “There were one to three inch cracks all the way across both sides of it,” Mr. Lowry said. “Over the years, all of that water got down in it, and calcified. We had to grind that out… and that was just from the water leaking inside. Once we started grinding some of the mortar joints out, there was nothing behind them but dirt. So it was lucky that we addressed it now.”

Mr. Lowry said the repairs will weatherproof the Memorial Arch against further damage, even during the North Country’s harsh winters.

“We repaired the top with a waterproofing concrete, and then we also sealed the top,” he said. “We also caulked the big joints with a waterproofer sealant, and then we put the concrete over that, so hopefully that will last a little bit.” Mr. Lowry suggests that the Village of Gouverneur look at the condition of the Memorial Arch every 10 to 15 years for maintenance purposes.”

The Village of Gouverneur asked D B Masonry to take the scaffolding down in readiness for the “sea of pink and teal” that will arrive in the Gouverneur Village Park for the 2023 Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund Walk this Saturday, October 7. There is a small amount of sealant and joint-filling work that D B Masonry will tackle at a later time. D B Masonry in Gouverneur was “very proud” to do the repairs and restoration work on the War Memorial Arch for the Village of Gouverneur.

Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that the Gouverneur Memorial Arch was built in the center of the downtown village park in 1905. The effort was funded by the local Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.) from the proceeds of special postcards printed with the architect's design for the arch. The Gouverneur Museum reports that close to 200 families made additional donations. Their names were placed on a list that was sealed inside the cornerstone before it was laid. The memorial arch was dedicated on August 30, 1905, as part of the town's Centennial celebration. Over the arch is engraved "Lest We Forget," the theme and purpose of the monument. Various plaques list the names of Gouverneur's first settlers from 1805-1807, and local residents who lost their lives during the Civil War, World Wars I and II, and the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Newly restored, the Gouverneur Memorial Arch continues to stand as one of the area’s most prominent landmarks in the Gouverneur Village Park. For more information about the Memorial Arch, visit www.gouverneurmuseum.com.

Gouverneur CSD Board of Education hears proposed capital project update

by Rachel Hunter

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

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

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

In other recent school news:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The board also approved the following appointments:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Public welcome to Open Swim at GHS Pool

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

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

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

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

Giant Pumpkin Drop thrills crowd at 12th annual Gouverneur Pumpkin Festival

by Rachel Hunter

The 2023 Gouverneur Pumpkin Festival drew crowds to the Gouverneur Fairgrounds on Sunday, September 24 to witness the Giant Pumpkin Drop. An annual fall tradition for many local families, the Giant Pumpkin Drop was truly a hit as residents from all over St. Lawrence County and beyond witnessed the pumpkin-smashing action

The promise of big cash prizes drove North Country residents to purchase raffle tickets for the 2023 Gouverneur Pumpkin Festival’s Giant Pumpkin Drop at pre-festival sale locations (including the Gouverneur Farmers Market) and at the Pumpkin Fest on Saturday and Sunday. Among the local dignitaries present on Sunday were Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall, Town of Gouverneur Councilman Jay Bowhall, and St. Lawrence County Legislator District 5 Harry Smithers (R-Gouverneur).

The pumpkin dropped was a 486-pounder grown by Fair Director Lyle Hotis of Gouverneur. It was gutted of its meat and seeds by Fair Director Dave Bishop of DeKalb. The public was then invited to take the giant pumpkin seeds, and grow their own giant pumpkin for exhibition at the 2024 Gouverneur Pumpkin Festival. The pumpkin was then relocated to the Horse Show Ring on the Gouverneur Fairgrounds, where it was harnessed and filled with water and numbered golf balls for the Giant Pumpkin Drop contest by a well-oiled team of volunteers and officials from the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Association. The numbers on the golf balls corresponded with raffle tickets sold in advance of the contest. Big cash prizes were promised to the top three winners, after the lengths traveled had been measured and the furthest traveled determined.

At the 4 p.m. start time, the 486-pound pumpkin now brought in estimates of a 700-pound weight after being gutted and filled with water and golf balls. The crane, donated by RSI Roofing Inc. in Gouverneur and operated by Barry Turner, then lifted the harnessed gourd up in the air a total of 75 feet. With great anticipation, the crowd with the help of Fair Manager Don Peck of Edwards began the countdown. The giant pumpkin was released by Pastor Dave Hart of Richville with assistance from the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Association officials. Moments later, the giant pumpkin smashed onto the wooden surface below, sending pumpkin meat, water and the numbered golf balls flying in all directions.

After some measuring and determinations, local youths helped to gather the golf balls from the grounds in and around the Horse Show Ring as the results were determined by Fair Secretary April Patton and Treasurer Linda Bishop. The results then were announced by Fair Manager Don Peck of Edwards and echoed by Chamber Director Connie Stowell of Gouverneur as follows: The first place prize of $500 went to Jessica Sweet of Gouverneur (golf ball numbered 218 traveled a total of 122.2 feet). The second place prize of $250 went to Rachel Riley of Richville (golf ball numbered 850 traveled a total of 111.3 feet). The third place prize of $100 went to TJ Simmons of Gouverneur (golf ball numbered 105 traveled a total of 105.6 feet). Congratulations were extended to all the winners.

Throughout the 2023 Gouverneur Pumpkin Festival, local youth had the opportunity to win pumpkin giveaways. The pumpkins were provided by Charlie Burt of Rowan’s Little Pumpkin Ridge of Gouverneur and Mike Livingston of DeKalb. The youth winners were all smiles as they gratefully accepted the pumpkins, and gratitude was extended to the local pumpkin growers for making the giveaways possible.

The North Country community, still riding on the high from the 2023 Gouverneur Pumpkin Festival, is already making plans to attend the 13th annual event in 2024.

For more information on the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Association or the Gouverneur Pumpkin Festival, visit gouverneurfair.net.

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

by Rachel Hunter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12th Gouverneur Pumpkin Festival this weekend

by Rachel Hunter

Fair President Beth Martin selling raffle tickets ahead of the 2023 Gouverneur Pumpkin Fest’s Giant Pumpkin Drop, which will be held at 4 p.m. on Sunday, September 24 at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds. The funds raised will go to support the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair. (Rachel Hunter photo)

The 12th Annual Gouverneur Pumpkin Festival, presented by the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair and the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce, will be held on Saturday, September 23, noon to 6 p.m., and Sunday, September 24, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds. Proceeds raised will help the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Association with its building and maintenance fund. Much gratitude is extended to this year’s sponsors, including RSI Roofing, Gouverneur Garden Club, Blevins Ford, and Crane Operator Barry Turner.

A crowd favorite now for over a decade, the Giant Pumpkin Drop will be held at 4 p.m. on Sunday. The public is invited to purchase $5 raffle tickets, and have the chance to win big cash prizes at the 2023 Gouverneur Pumpkin Festival. Each entrant’s corresponding number will be on a numbered golf ball that is put into a giant pumpkin in advance of the drop. The top three golf balls that travel the furthest are then determined, and the winners announced. Big cash payouts are promised, and the local winners will not be disappointed. The prize for the furthest ball traveled is $500, second place is $250, and third place is $100.

Tickets will be available for sale in pre-festival locations throughout the Gouverneur community. Fair Director Lyle Hotis of Gouverneur harvested his giant pumpkins on Wednesday, September 20 and they will be available for viewing in various locations before the Pumpkin Fest as volunteers sell pre-festival Giant Pumpkin Drop tickets. Follow the fair’s Facebook page for up-to-date information on the pre-festival ticket sale dates and locations.

One of the giant pumpkins grown by Mr. Hotis will be the one used for the 2023 Giant Pumpkin Drop on Sunday. Giant Pumpkin Drop tickets will also be available throughout the 2023 Gouverneur Pumpkin Festival on the Gouverneur Fairgrounds this Saturday and Sunday.

Giant Pumpkin growers from all over the North Country will converge at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds for the 2023 Giant Pumpkin Weight Contests. All growers can bring their entries on Saturday or Sunday. The Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off will be held on Sunday, 1 to 2 p.m., with the awards ceremony to follow. Prizes will be distributed to the top winners. The prizes in the senior division are as follows: first prize ($200), second prize ($100), and third prize ($50). The prizes in the junior division are as follows: first prize ($50), second prize ($25), and third prize ($10). There also will be a Guess The Pumpkin Weight 50/50 Raffle, tickets will be $1 each. There also will be free pumpkin giveaways for the youth.

Vendor space is still available to crafters, vendors, and flea marketers, and registration forms are now available online at gouverneurfair.net and gouverneurchamber.net.

The 2023 Gouverneur Pumpkin Festival schedule is as follows:

The Pumpkin Festival fun will begin on Saturday, September 23 with craft show, children’s activities, vendors, food (hot dog cart, New York Pizzeria, Cotton Candy N More, Mullins, etc.), and games. There will be a chicken barbecue, $15 per dinner, starting at noon till sold out. Only 100 chicken halves will be available for sale, so all those interested in enjoying the scrumptious chicken barbecue dinner is encouraged to come early and enjoy the meals at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds. The Gouverneur Pumpkin Cruise-In Classic Car Show, sponsored by Blevins Ford, will be held on Saturday, 1 to 3 p.m. The long-awaited auction (in-person and Facebook live) will be held at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds Youth Building for the exceptional pieces created by chainsaw carving artist Jennifer Black at the 2023 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair. The North Country can preview the items anytime during the 2023 Gouverneur Pumpkin Festival. Advance photos have also been posted to the Don Peck Auctioneer Facebook page.

On Sunday, September 24, the fun will begin at 8 a.m. with registration for the First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur’s annual Pumpkin Run/Walk 5K. There will be yoga at 8:15 a.m., walk/run kick-off at 8:45 a.m., mat pilates at 9:45 a.m., and zumba at 10:05 a.m. The cost is a $35 registration fee. For more information, visit the event page on Facebook. The UMC Gouverneur Church Service will follow at 11 a.m. in the FFA Building.

The craft show and draft horse wagon rides (by Bango Valley Percherons) will be held on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Steelin’ Country will perform in the Youth Building from noon to 2 p.m. The Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off will be held from 1 to 2 p.m. with the awards for youths and adults to follow. The Giant Pumpkin Drop will be held at 4 p.m. There also will be children’s activities by the Gouverneur Recreation Center on Sunday.

With something for everyone, the 2023 Gouverneur Pumpkin Festival promises to be a community event not to be missed. For more information, visit the Gouverneur Fair website, www.gouverneurfair.net.

Local poultry fanciers crow about awards

by Rachel Hunter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Carolyn Pistolesi Memorial Golf Tournament raises over $11,000 to support breast, ovarian cancer patients

by Rachel Hunter

The 2023 Carolyn Pistolesi Memorial Golf Tournament on Sunday, September 10 at the Gouverneur Country Club raised over $11,000 for the Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund. A North Country tradition for over two decades, the benefit golf tournament has raised over $2 million in its history, and helped about 1,000 people. The event in 2023 was named in memory of Carolyn Pistolesi, a founding member of the Gouverneur Breast Cancer Fund, who passed away on September 11, 2022.

The origin story of the Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund has been reported as follows: After losing a very dear friend to Breast Cancer in 2000, Carolyn Pistolesi and Marilyn LaPierre decided to show their support in the fight against Breast Cancer by participating in a Breast Cancer Walk/Run in Norwood, New York in August. Monies raised at this event went to help women who were diagnosed with Breast Cancer through the Healthy Living Partnership of St. Lawrence County and the Jefferson/Lewis Healthy Women's Partnership.

These two partnerships had money through state funds to help diagnose women, but if they were above the qualifying financial assistance level once diagnosed, there were no funds to help them in their treatment. All funds raised during the event were used to provide treatment and services to these women. On the way home, both women felt good that they had done something positive in memory of their dear friend Donna Weldon.

A few weeks went by, and these two women, both members of the Gouverneur Business Women Club, were together again doing something related to Breast Cancer. During their monthly meeting, DeDe Walter, a local businesswomen, community member, mother, wife, sister, and Breast Cancer survivor, happened to be the month's guest speaker. DeDe was on the Board of Directors for the not-for-profit that supported the walk attended by Carolyn and Marilyn back in August. She talked about the upcoming major fundraiser in October and her involvement in the cause, but what really touched the group was when she spoke about her experience dealing with Breast Cancer. How she felt, how her family and friends rallied around her to support her as best they could, and her fears for her daughter as she became older. She also spoke of what she wanted to see for other Breast Cancer patients in the future. She was one of the lucky ones; she had survived and had a story to tell.

After DeDe was done speaking and the members wiped away a tear or two, then president Marilyn LaPierre said, "Wouldn't it be nice if we could do something like that too." With that statement, the Gouverneur Business Women's Breast Cancer Walk was started. The members talked and bounced ideas around, and Marilyn asked for volunteers. Six women said they would start the committee. Marilyn LaPierre, Carolyn Pistolesi, Judy Bush, Mona Allen, Becky Fiacco, and Terry Hitsman-Moses. The committee formed, ideas were had, and now it was time to put it all together and achieve the results they desired, to help women in the Gouverneur area who couldn't afford all the extra expenses brought on when fighting Breast Cancer.

Living in a small community with a population base of about 4,500 residents, no one knew what to expect from the first walk. The committee members all voiced what they thought they'd raise, with the most aggressive goal being $10,000.00. They all decided that whoever had the closest goal to the actual amount raised would be taken out for the dinner of their choice. No committee member was prepared when they raised over $19,500.00 in the first year. The idea of making the walk an annual event was discussed, and decided that the committee needed to create its own organization. With the advice of a local attorney, the application to become a 501(c)3 was completed, bylaws written, and official board members named. Effective March 21, 2003, the official not-for-profit exemption was official. In 2014, the "Gouverneur Business Women's Breast Cancer Walk Fund" became "Gouverneur Breast Cancer Fund." A new website was launched to observe the change. In 2020, the walk was postponed due to COVID-19 restrictions. The Fund decided to attempt a "virtual" walk to be held during the months of September and October 2020. The 2021 Walk was cautiously scheduled for October 2, 2021. In 2022 the very successful Gouverneur Breast Cancer Walk was held on October 1, 2022. Also, in 2022, the organization officially became the Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund, as the name better aligns with the Fund’s mission.

The Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund’s mission is to alleviate at least some of the financial burden patients face during their treatment and allow them to focus on recovery and healing. Patients receive financial assistance with medical expenses, household expenses, rent, mortgages and car payments as a few examples. All support goes directly to assist newly diagnosed patients with their recovery. The Fund assists individuals who live in St. Lawrence, Jefferson, Lewis, and Franklin counties, New York, by providing financial assistance with household, medical, travel, and living expenses during a patient's treatment of both breast and ovarian cancers.

The 2023 Carolyn Pistolesi Memorial Golf Tournament drew its own sea of pink and teal to the Gouverneur Country Club with North Country residents making donations to support the Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund, while remembering the life and legacy of Carolyn Pistolesi. Although Carolyn’s journey with this disease was short, her legacy continues through the organization that she was so dedicated to, and her vision continues to touch the lives of men and women in their fight.

The teams were greeted by the Gouverneur Breast and Fund Committee, including volunteers Judy Bush, Connie Stowell, and Terry Pistolesi at the registration table.

Organizer Connie Stowell of Gouverneur welcomed all those in attendance at the 1 p.m. start. “The most important thing is to have fun today. We are going to make Carolyn proud,” she said. The Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund and all those in attended extended gratitude to Connie Stowell for her fundraising efforts every year.

The 2023 Carolyn Pistolesi Memorial Golf Tournament also included raffles, food, and fun for all.

Terri Moore of Gouverneur was proclaimed the winner of the $500 Princess House Shopping Spree, which was donated by Connie Stowell.

Many of those in attendance showed much interest in the Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund’s raffle for a 22-inch Leslie’s rose gold necklace with a Rose Gold Ribbon with a pink Sapphire and Teal Diamond with accent diamonds (retail value over $2,300), which was hand designed and set by Harland Brown of Brown's Jewelry in Gouverneur. Raffle tickets for the necklace and the many items donated by local businesses and community members in the button raffle are now available from any Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund Committee Member and will also be available at the Walk. The drawing will be held on October 7.

The 2023 Carolyn Pistolesi Memorial Golf Tournament received support from the Gouverneur community through event and hole sponsorships, donations for the raffle table and more. Much gratitude was extended to the following sponsors: Kinney Drugs Foundation, Casablanca, Gouverneur Hospital, Joel and Bridgette LaPierre and girls, Pistolesi Girls, KT Contracting, Pistolesi Rentals, Northland Veterinary Clinic, Patti Visconti and Laura Carbone, Lauren French, Fun Unlimited, Barb and Phil Tulley, Anita and Tom Sleeman, Gouverneur Savings and Loan, Route 11 Diner, Community Bank, Luanne and Tom Hilts, Chris and Al Betrus, Bill Miller Painting, as well as those who donated raffle items and volunteered.

The 2023 Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund Walk will be held on Saturday, October 7. Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. in the Village Park, or register online at www.gouverneurbreastovariancancerfund.com. The first 300 registrations received will receive a free gift bag, and all who donate with a minimum of $40.00 registration fee, receive a free t-shirt. The public is reminded that all donations are used to support patients going through breast, ovarian cancer, or a cancer that has metastasized from said cancers, living in St. Lawrence, Jefferson, Lewis or Franklin Counties of New York. For more information, visit www.gouverneurbreastovariancancerfund.com.

Pickleball craze hits Gouverneur

by Rachel Hunter

The pickleball craze is going strong in Gouverneur – with no sign of souring any time soon.

The pickleball courts at Mills Park in Gouverneur were established in 2022, thanks to $1,000 in memorial and private contributions. The courts were recently resurfaced thanks to the Village of Gouverneur who allocated American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding for the improvement of Mills Park, including the pickleball courts. It is anticipated that colors will be added in Spring 2024. Now, over a year since the third pickleball court was added in Mills Park, the pickleball craze has hit a fever pitch, and the Gouverneur, NY Pickleball group is inviting people of all levels and abilities to join the fun.

What is pickleball? Pickleball is a racket or paddle sport in which two (singles) or four (doubles) players hit a perforated, hollow plastic ball with paddles over a 34-inch-high net until one side is unable to return the ball or commits an infraction. The game was created in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, at the summer home of Joel Pritchard, who later served in the United States Congress and as Washington's lieutenant governor. Pritchard and two of his friends, Barney McCallum and Bill Bell, are credited with devising the game and establishing the rules.

While it resembles tennis and table tennis, pickleball has specific rules, paddles and court dimensions. The court is 44 feet long and 20 feet wide, and the paddle is larger than the one used in table tennis. The hard plastic ball used in pickleball produces less bounce than tennis balls. On each side of the net is a 7-foot area known as the non-volley zone (or the kitchen), where the ball must bounce before it is hit. The rules specify side-out scoring, where only the server can score a point. The minimal amount of bounce, the non-volley zones, and the underhanded stroke with which all serves are made, give the game a dynamic pace.

Between 1965 and 2020, pickleball became a popular sport in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, and began to grow in popularity elsewhere. In 2021-2023, the sport was named the fastest-growing sport in the United States by the Sports and Fitness Industry Association, and by 2023 it was estimated to have over 4.8 million players. The growing popularity of the sport has been attributed to its short learning curve, its appeal to a wide range of ages and fitness levels, and its low startup costs. There are now thousands of pickleball tournaments throughout the United States.

Organizer Barbara Little told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that the concept of pickleball is a beautiful combination of camaraderie and competitiveness, and that people of all levels and abilities can enjoy the sport. “It is a great way to meet people,” she said. The Gouverneur Pickleball Courts are often in use, and those who want to join are encouraged to come to Mills Park on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 9 to 11 a.m., or on Saturdays. Join the Gouverneur, NY Pickleball Facebook group or visit www.playtimescheduler.com to discover the best time to head to the local courts.

Certified Pickleball Instructor Michael Rivers of Watertown has a passion for pickleball and wants to see the sport grow through Northern New York. He has been a frequent fixture at the Gouverneur courts – putting on clinics and giving guidance and instruction on the game of pickleball to those in attendance. He also has put on clinics in Alexandria Bay, Watertown, Croghan, and more. “I just want to get people enthused,” he said. “It’s addictive. You can chat back and forth and exchange cherry cobbler recipes if you want. It’s fun. We’re not curing cancer. We’re just having fun. I play in tournaments. I compete. But anywhere in between, it’s fun… The rules of this sport are so unique that it mitigates the difference in skill level. When I was playing competitive racquetball, I played someone that was just starting – and it was no fun for them, and no fun for me. But that doesn’t happen in this sport really… now don’t get me wrong, good players find who the weak players are, and they attack. But if you can master the three shots… and I teach them in every clinic… serve, return a serve, third shot. If you know those, you can play. I just love it. And most of these guys when we started were 2.0. They couldn’t serve. They didn’t know the rules. They’ve got a ways to go, but we’ve been doing this a while… The goal is to make this fun, so that you don’t get into pickleball snobbery where the 4.0 doesn’t want to play with the 2.5. I don’t play like that. You just pick your rotation and you go out and have fun. It’s a great sport.”

Anyone interested in pickleball is encouraged to join the Gouverneur, NY Pickleball group and get involved as this sport continues to grow throughout the North Country and beyond.

Walk With A Doc in Gouverneur is this Saturday

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GH Auxiliary Antiques In The Park deemed a success

by Rachel Hunter

Treasure seekers were thrilled at the variety of antiques available for purchase from vendors across the North Country region at the 26th Antiques In The Park, sponsored by the Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary. All funds raised will be used in support of the Gouverneur Hospital, an affiliate of St. Lawrence Health and Rochester Regional Health.

The event was moved to the St. James School gymnasium due to inclement weather. This was the first time in the event’s history that it was not held in the Gouverneur Village Park. But the rain didn’t dampen the spirits as big smiles and joy-filled laughter filled the St. James School as North Country residents enjoyed talking with the vendors. There were streams of customers throughout the day, as the local community greatly welcomed the return of Antiques In The Park. With continued support, it will continue to be a thriving fundraiser for the Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary and continue to grow in future years.

The Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary held their big raffle fundraiser for an antique picture frame (donated by the Gouverneur Museum) filled with a $100 bill and $100 worth of lottery tickets (made possible by the GH Auxiliary). Raffle tickets were $2 each or three tickets for $5. Pre-sale tickets were sold at the Lifesaver Gift Shop at the Gouverneur Hospital as well as Kinney Drugs on Clinton Street. Tickets were also available for sale at the 2023 Antiques in the Park, and GH Auxiliary members warmly greeted all those in attendance. The winner’s name was picked at the 3 p.m. drawing, and the winner was Collette Green from Gouverneur.

Many North Country residents also participated in the silent auction, which was made possible due to the great support from community members, local artists and small businesses. As well, there was much support at the Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary bake sale, at the Nibbles Snackery food truck, and more.

There is much anticipation for the Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary’s Antiques In The Park to return in 2024. For more information on the Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary, call GHA President Kim Halpin at 315-276-4494.

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

by Rachel Hunter

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

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

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

Notice: Village streets to be paved on Monday, Tuesday

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

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

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

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

Ryan’s Wish Foundation Golf Tournament raises funds for those diagnosed with cancer, serious illnesses

by Rachel Hunter

The 2023 Ryan’s Wish Foundation Annual Charity Golf Tournament was held on Saturday, August 19 at Emerald Greens’ 18-hole golf course in Gouverneur. Golfers turned out in great number to support the Ryan’s Wish Foundation’s mission to help those diagnosed with cancer and serious illnesses throughout St. Lawrence, Jefferson, Franklin and Lewis counties.

Gouverneur’s own Dr. Robert Saidel and his wife Rita founded Ryan’s Wish Foundation in memory of their son, who strived to live life to the fullest even as he battled cancer. Ryan Saidel from Gouverneur, NY was diagnosed with neuroblastoma when he was 14 years old and fought the disease for five years before he passed at age 19 on February 7, 2004. During his five-year struggle, Ryan touched the lives of countless people. To those around him, Ryan defined the word courage as he lived his life inspiring others to make the best of each and every day.

A year after Ryan’s death, the Ryan’s Wish Foundation was created to celebrate Ryan’s inspirational life, and is dedicated to helping others who are battling a serious illness “play and live strong.”

The Ryan’s Wish Foundation (501 (C) (3) nonprofit organization) is created to celebrate the inspirational life of Ryan Saidel. The foundation is dedicated to helping people who are battling a serious illness to “play and live strong.” The Foundation serves people in the tri-county areas of Northern New York: Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence Counties. Funds received from the Foundation can help offset traveling costs and other expenses incurred by individuals and their families during treatment or hospitalization. More than $1 million has been distributed to help North Country residents who had been diagnosed with cancer and serious illness throughout St. Lawrence County, Jefferson County, and Lewis County.

The welcoming address was given by John Cunningham, owner of Emerald Greens in Gouverneur, joined by Dr. Robert and Rita Saidel of Gouverneur. “We would like to thank you for joining us today,” Mr. Cunningham said. “We would like to thank you for showing your support of the Ryan’s Wish Foundation.” He also extended gratitude to the Ryan’s Wish Foundation Board for their help organizing the event, along with the Emerald Greens staff.

“Again, we want to thank everyone for coming out today,” Dr. Saidel said. “You know our mission, and you probably maybe even had some friends or others that we have helped in the past. We do St. Lawrence County, Jeferson County, and Lewis County. This year, there has been a lot of people with a lot of health problems that are critical… and that needs transportation, multiple trips to Boston, Syracuse. Because of your donations and coming here to show your support, we are able to not turn down anybody, which is a blessing.”

Great applause sounded as the 20 registered teams of golfers headed out to play on Emerald Greens’ 18-hole golf course last Saturday.

Donations to the Ryan’s Wish Foundation are always gratefully accepted: Ryan's Wish Foundation, c/o Dr. Robert Saidel, P.O. Box 326, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Exhibitors showcase top quality beef cattle at county fair

by Rachel Hunter

The 2023 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Open and 4-H Beef Cattle Show was held in the Harry Parow Memorial Cattle Showring on the Gouverneur Fairgrounds on Wednesday, August 2. Beef Cattle Superintendent John Hunter of Gouverneur opened the competition to both purebred beef cattle and dairy-beef entries this year.

The Open and 4-H Beef Show was evaluated by Steve Ledoux of Adirondack Beef Company in Croghan.

Supreme and Grand Champion went to a Red Angus cow, Phillips Mildred 922, with calf, Max, at side, exhibited by Otter Creek Cattle Company in Redwood. Reserve Grand Champion went to the White Park yearling heifer, Whitmore’s Molly, exhibited by Whitmore Family Farm in Gouverneur. Both exhibitors are making plans to exhibit their beef cattle at the New York State Fair.

The Overall Dairy-Beef Champion was a Wagyu-Jersey crossbred finished steer, Willy, exhibited by Graham Rozler of Cowbell Acres in Canton. Reserve went to a prospect steer, Roc-Val Rayne, exhibited by Harlin Brown of Richville. Reserve Senior Champion went to a finished steer over 1,000 pounds, exhibited by Otter Creek Cattle Company. Reserve Junior Champion and Calf Champion was won by Whitmore Family Farm in Gouverneur. More ribbons were presented in the 4-H and open competition for the exhibitors’ quality entries in the breed classes.

4-H’er Luke Steifel of Otter Creek Cattle Company in Redwood won Overall Master Showman and the Junior Master Showmanship honors. Reserve Master Showman went to 4-H’er Isabella Perretta of Canton who was also named Senior Master Showman. The Reserve Junior Master Showman went to 4-H’er Kelsey Whitmore of Whitmore Family Farm in Gouverneur. The Reserve Senior Master Showman went to Ty Steifel of Otter Creek Cattle Company in Redwood. Chloe Whitmore received a Cloverbud ribbon for her participation, and Graham Rozler of Cowbell Acres in Canton, and Harlin Brown of Richville received blue ribbons for their participation in the 4-H showmanship classes.

The exhibitors who competed in the 4-H and Open Beef Show were also allowed entry into the first-ever Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Beef Cook-Off Contest. A trophy and $100 gift card to J & S Feed and Outdoors in Gouverneur was presented to the top winner, Cowbell Acres in Canton. Other participants included the following: Otter Creek Cattle Company in Redwood, Roberts Family in Heuvelton, and Whitmore Family Farm in Gouverneur. The judges were Fair President Beth Martin, Jerry Sauls of J & S Feed and Outdoors in Gouverneur, and Floyd Rood of Hermon. The winning entry was awarded for its exceptional taste, appearance, texture, and more. All exhibitors in the 4-H and Open Beef Show are encouraged to consider entering the Second Annual Beef Cook-Off at the 2024 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair.

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

by Rachel Hunter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Village paving delayed one week due to rain

by Rachel Hunter

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

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

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

Wildcats Win Mascot Competition

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Marching Wildcats took first place during the 2023 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair’s Carlton Peck Day Mascot Competition on Wednesday, August 2.

The mascot competition has been a beloved feature of the Carlton Peck Band Day for over a decade – and the 2023 Mascot Competition did not disappoint with a standout performance by the Gouverneur Wildcats.

Gouverneur Wildcat Mascot Maxwel Lucas, with the support of his Gouverneur Wildcat bandmates, blew away the competition with their stellar performance, which featured songs and scenes from Disney’s The High School Musical, Beauty and the Beast, Star Wars, Pirates of the Caribbean, Guardians of the Galaxy, The Little Mermaid and more. The Wildcats worked for weeks in preparation for the performance, and fairgoers were wowed by the talents of the students on the grandstand stage.

In recognition of the exceptional performance, Band Day Director Sean Peck awarded Gouverneur Wildcat Mascot Maxwel Lucas a $25 cash prize. Great cheers and applause sounded from the crowded grandstand in support of the Gouverneur Wildcats.

There is much anticipation building for the 2024 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair’s Carlton Peck Band Day. For more information on the county fair, visit www.gouverneurfair.net.

Gouverneur CSD to provide free school supplies for district students

by Rachel Hunter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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