Gouverneur CSD residents to vote on $44M proposed budget for 2024-25

by Rachel Hunter

On Tuesday, May 21, Gouverneur Central School District residents will vote on the proposed $44,165,000 budget for the 2024-25 school year. The proposal carries a 3.59 percent spending increase over the current year and a 2.03 percent increase to the tax levy, which is at the levy limit.

The Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education held the annual budget hearing on May 13. The call to order was given by Board of Education President and Chairperson David Fenlong. There were over 30 Gouverneur Central School District staff, faculty, administrators, and community members present. A sample ballot was available for public perusal. The Budget Vote will be held on Tuesday, May 21, noon to 8 p.m., in the GHS Auditorium. The inspectors and officers of election were appointed at the May 4 meeting of the Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education as following: Chief Inspector Diane Kelley, Inspector Judith Poticher, and Assistant Clerk, Kim Shampine.

The presentation of the 2024-25 Proposed Budget was presented by Gouverneur Central School District Superintendent of Schools Jacquelyn L. Kelly as follows:

“I’d like to thank everybody for coming tonight,” Supt. Kelly said. “This is a nice crowd.”

The 2024-25 Proposed Budget contains three components – Administrative Component, Program Component, and the Capital Component.

There is $5,070,630 in the Administrative Component of the 2024-25 Proposed Budget. This is an increase of $368,089 over the current budget, and represents 11.48 percent of the total budget. “The primary reason for the increase is a central data processing shift,” Supt. Kelly said. “Software is now going to be recorded to the Administrative Component.” Supt. Kelly reminded the community that the Administrative Component includes expenses for the Board of Education, district clerk, Superintendent of Schools, Assistant Superintendent, business administration, auditing, treasurer, tax collector, purchasing, legal services, personnel services, records management, public information services, curriculum development and supervision, central data processing, central printing and mailing, central storeroom, judgments and claims and employee benefits attributable to salaries included in this component.

There is $31,710,087 in the Program Component of the 2024-25 Proposed Budget. This is an increase of $2,401,349 over the current budget, and represents 71.80 percent of the total budget. Supt. Kelly said the increase is a direct result of the District trying to “build in the positions that have been funded by the American Rescue Plan federal funding over the course of the past three years.” The community was reminded that the Program Component includes salaries and benefits of teachers, guidance, health services, psychological and social work services, pupil personnel services, co-curricular activities, interscholastic athletics, district transportation services (excluding bus purchases), contract transportation, recreation, youth programs, civic activities, employee benefits attributable to salaries included in this component, transfers to school lunch and special aid funds, and legal services relating to the program component. Supt. Kelly also said that one big part of this component is the cost of the third year of a three-year First Student transportation contract included in the 2024-25 proposed budget, which is about $2.5 million.”

There is $7,384,283 in the Capital Component of the 2024-25 Proposed Budget. This is a decrease of $1,239,898 over the current year’s budget, and it represents 16.72 percent of the total budget. “The decrease is primarily because of the $1.2 million project at the middle school,” Supt. Kelly said. The community was reminded that the Capital Component covers the cost of operation and maintenance of buildings, school bus purchases, debt service, transfers to capital and debt service funds, tax certiorari, judgements and claims, and employee benefits attributable to salaries in this component.

In looking at the budget comparison between the 2023-24 school year and the 2024-25 school year, Supt. Kelly noted that the total budget has increased. The budget for the 2024-25 school year is projected to be $44,165,000. The tax levy will be $7,066,189, with a tax levy increase of $140,638. The tax levy increase that is projected for the 2024-25 school year is 2.03 percent. The spending increase is $1,529,580 or 3.59 percent, and the District will be allocating reserve funds to cover the difference between the spending increase and the tax levy increase.

The estimated financial impact on property owners is as follows: If a property owner is eligible for Basic STAR, on a $60,000 home, the total increase is projected to be $8.12. On a $100,000 home, the total increase is projected to be $17.21. If a property owner is eligible for Enhanced STAR, on a $60,000 home, the total increase is projected to be $0. On a $100,000 home, the total projected increase is $7.27.

Supt. Kelly then said: “I want to give you a little background on how we arrived at the budget this year. As you probably know, this budget supports our long-term district-wide goals. We have had those goals in place for three years now. Our first goal is to bring consistency to curriculum decisions across grade levels and to provide appropriate professional development to support those curriculum decisions. We are trying to tie the professional development in with our curriculum. Our primary focus continues to be developing the foundational skills necessary for students to effectively read and write and do math. Our second goal is to continue to provide the social emotional support and academic opportunities for all students to be engaged and find success in school. Our primary focus in for all students to feel safe, welcomed at school, and want to be a part of our school community. Finally, we will continue to work to provide a continuum of the Special Education services district-wide to support the needs of all our students.

“This year, we had a couple of great planning sessions when talking about the budget, and what we thought we needed to include,” Supt. Kelly said. “So, district-wide, some of the additions to the budget this year are: We will have a school psychology intern joining us. We will have behavioral support. We will continue the afterschool and summer remedial and enrichment programming that has been funded by the American Rescue Plan funds for the last three years. We will have technology education support, orchestra, and we will continue our virtual psychologists. At the Gouverneur Elementary and Middle Schools specifically, we will continue to fund the Math Academic Intervention Services (AIS) Teachers, the Instructional Math Coach, Counseling Teaching Assistants, and we will be funding additional classroom aides specifically for the kindergarten classrooms. At the high school, we will be looking to add a Reading Academic Intervention Services (AIS) Teacher. We will be looking at BOCES Alternative Education Programming to address some of our needs at the high school.

“As I stated earlier, many of these positions have been funded over the past three school years utilizing the American Rescue Plan (ARP) federal funding that the District received as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis,” Supt. Kelly said. “While the funding is scheduled to end in summer of 2024, the needs of our student population continue to increase and these services are needed by our students and their families.”

Supt. Kelly said: “One last thing that I would like to add is that, in preparation for the New York State mandated shift to the use of electric vehicles and the district’s need to be prepared for that shift, the proposed budget includes the purchase of five new diesel-powered buses and one new gasoline powered Suburban. The budget also includes two fully grant funded electric powered vehicles. This will allow the district to determine the feasibility of using electric vehicles in a district of our size and terrain.

“The business office, administrative team, and I have worked hard, with faculty and staff input, to develop a fiscally sustainable budget that provides the preservation of the strong educational programming, safe and secure environments, and extracurricular activities that our community has supported over the years.”

It was also noted that, in addition to the budget, residents will be asked to elect four members to the Gouverneur CSD Board of Education. The top three vote-getters will be named to the three-year seats (July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2027) to succeed Nickolas Ormasen, Laurie Roberts, and Laura Spicer, and the fourth will fill the vacant term (May 22, 2024 to June 30, 2027) to succeed Lisa McGregor. The candidates on the ballot are: Laurie M. Roberts, Laura Spicer, Roland Roderick, Nickolas Ormasen, and Lisa McGregor. Full candidate bios have been published online at www.gcsk12.org.

Also on the budget will be a proposition that, if approved, would continue to allow a high school student to serve as an ex officio, not-voting member of the Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education.

There were no questions made public at the budget hearing.

Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education President David Fenlong extended gratitude to Supt. Kelly for the budget presentation.

All residents in the Gouverneur Central School District who are 18 years of age or older, a U.S. Citizen, and have resided in the district for at least 30 days prior to the election are encouraged to vote. The Gouverneur Central School District Budget Vote and Board Member Election will be held Tuesday, May 21, noon to 8 p.m., in the GHS Auditorium. There also will be the Gouverneur Central School District Art Show in the GHS auxiliary gym on Tuesday, noon to 8 p.m. For more information, visit www.gcsk12.org.

Frankie & The Moonlighters to perform at Sock Hop in Gouverneur

by Rachel Hunter

Frankie & The Moonlighters will offer sweet sounds from the ‘50s and ‘60s, on Saturday, May 18, 7-10 p.m. at the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035, 1419 US Highway 11, Gouverneur.

Admission to the sock hop is $3 (single) or $5 (couple). Due to the generosity of an anonymous donor, there will be a $100 prize for the best outfit, and judging will be at 8 p.m. Food will be available for purchase from 5 to 6 p.m. The Gouverneur Elks will offer the classic food options cheeseburger with French fries and shake, or hot dog with French fries and shake at a nominal $5 cost. The public is encouraged to attend.

Frankie & The Moonlighters, based in Bloomingdale, NY, is a nostalgia band with music from the ‘50s and 60s. Each band member has a day-job, thus the name “moonlighters.”

The “chief crooner” is Frank Whitelaw, 63, who currently serves as the Town of St. Armand Town Justice. He retired from the New York State Police after 24 years of service, and also served as Essex County Coroner for over seven years. “Music has always been my go-to throughout life,” Mr. Whitelaw said in an interview with the Gouverneur Tribune Press. “It was even my major in high school. It’s been a driving force. After I retired, I co-founded heavy metal band Sonic Boom with a friend. Eight years later, I wanted to try something different. Fifties doo-wop music has always resonated with me, so I decided to venture out and find a whole new group.”

Frankie & The Moonlighters consists of the following: Frank Whitelaw as primary lead vocalist, Donna Fortune, Melissa Nugent, and Jessica Kemp as backing and lead vocals, Mike Harrington on lead guitar, Barb Curtis on upright bass, Sue Grimm on keyboards, and Kevin McLaughlin on drums. The group formed in November of 2022, and was finalized in January of 2023.

“Everyone in the group is passionate about music and they give 100 percent,” Frank Whitelaw said. “The music is all from the ‘50s and ‘60s. We all have period-correct wardrobe, and our stage set is reminiscent of a performance stage from the ‘50s or early ‘60s. We give a high-energy show with a smattering of crooning ballads. We even have our audience play along on one of our songs, when the ladies hand out percussion instruments, so the audience can play along and sing along with us. Our shows are rated G, so we are family-friendly. The band has been evolving since forming. For only being a little over a year old, we are getting lots of great feedback. We tend to honestly self-critique, so this serves as the medium for growth and improvement. It’s rewarding when we see our audiences singing along, dancing and just having fun. The goal is, to let you leave your troubles at the door and just have a good time. No other agenda. Just rock around the clock.”

Frankie & The Moonlighters is booked around the North Country in 2024. The Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 will feature Frankie & The Moonlights during the sock hop on Saturday, May 18, and during the Elks’ Annual Car Show on Saturday, June 8. The band will also be playing the Clinton County Fair in July, Music on the Green at Riverside Park in Saranac Lake, Tupper Arts Sunset Music Series in August, Port Henry Farmers Market, The Battle of Plattsburgh celebration in September, a North Country Hospice benefit show in October, among others. The band is taking November off to hit the studio, to record their first EP.

Anticipation is high throughout to community for North Country’s ‘50s-‘60s nostalgia band, Frankie & The Moonlighters, to come to Gouverneur on Saturday, May 18. Organizers encourage residents to arrive early to enjoy the sock-hop fun! For more information, call the Gouverneur Elks at 315-287-1630.

Jeff Boyer Productions to return to Gouverneur Public Library this summer for bubble, energy shows

by Rachel Hunter

Jeff Boyer Productions will return to the Gouverneur Public Library this summer with Big Bubble Bonanza shows at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on July 10, and Fun With Energy Shows at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on July 17. It was confirmed by Gouverneur Public Library Director Karen King this week. Call 315-287-0191 now to reserve seats for these shows.

Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that a total of 159 local residents enjoyed the Big Bubble Bonanza Show, hosted by Jeff Boyer, during three shows at the Gouverneur Public Library in 2023. It was Judith Poticher, president of the Gouverneur Public Library Board of Trustees, who saw Mr. Boyer’s show first-hand and wanted to bring it to the Gouverneur Public Library for local families to enjoy. It was a smash hit, and there is much anticipation for Jeff Boyer Productions to return in 2024.

Jeff Boyer is a proven crowd-pleasing performer engaging, amusing and educating audiences for decades. He’s been excited about bubbles and physics since he was a kid. Studying acting at SUNY Jefferson (Watertown, NY) and the Boston Shakespeare Company brought his skills and calling into focus. Jeff moved into performing for family audiences in 1993. He’s enjoyed being part of ensemble casts and being a one-man show including musical theatre, drama, comedy, science and magic performance. He started Jeff Boyer Productions in 1999 and has been wowing audiences internationally with bubbles, science, and comedy ever since. A variety artist with over 25 years of entertainment experience, Jeff mixes the flair of magic, comedy, music and audience participation. He specializes in inclusion and diversity performance, seamlessly engaging audiences beyond language, cultural, age, and ability barriers. His dynamic style galvanizes communities. Jeff began creating bubble shows in 2005. His experience with school groups led him to raise audience participation to a new level. Jeff wows crowds of up to 1800 and spends much of his year touring internationally. When not on tour he loves to relax by the stream at home with his family and his favorite dog Lizzie.

With Big Bubble Bonanza, Jeff Boyer engages, delights and inspires those in attendance with a sensory-friendly bubble extravaganza, which will be fun for the whole family. North Country residents will have the opportunity to see the newest, funniest, zany spectacular from world-famous, Guinness Book of World Records-holding, master bubble wrangler Jeff Boyer, as he takes bubbles to the max with big bubble flair. Mixing comedy, music, and interactive bubble-magic, Jeff engages and delights audiences of all ages. The Gouverneur Public Library will be filled with excitement and delight from Jeff Boyer’s Big Bubble Bonanza, an interactive bubble show for all ages. The shows will be at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Wednesday, July 10. There is no cost to attend.

At the Fun With Energy Show, Jeff Boyer shows kids that energy is what makes our world work, through carefully laid out activities illustrating the laws and forces which govern the world around us. Jeff takes audiences on an exciting energy filled ride they’ll always remember. He brings kids right up on stage for interactive demonstrations that entertain and amaze. The shows will be held at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Wednesday, July 17, at the Gouverneur Public Library. There is no cost to attend.

For more information about Jeff Boyer, visit his website at http://jeffboyer.com.

Gouverneur Public Library Director Karen King also announces this week that the 2024 Summer Reading Program will run July 1-31. Sign-ups will be held throughout the month of June. Registering gives participants one ticket toward the grand prize in their age group. Tickets can be earned by completing the activities on the Summer Reading Activity Sheet, created by the Gouverneur Public Library staff. The grand prize winners will be drawn on Friday, August 2. For more information, call the library at 315-287-0191.

The Gouverneur Public Library, 60 Church St., Gouverneur, is open on Mondays to Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Fridays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. More details on the Gouverneur Public Library are available at gouverneurlibrary.org.

Reminder: Gouverneur Chamber Banquet is May 1

by Rachel Hunter

The Greater Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce’s 114th Annual Banquet will be held on Wednesday, May 1, 5:30 p.m. (social hour), 6:30 p.m. (roast beef dinner), at the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035, 1419 US Highway 11, Gouverneur.

Greater Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Donna Besaw of Gouverneur confirmed with the Gouverneur Tribune Press this week that tickets are still available at $25 per person. For more information, visit gouverneurchamber.net.

The Greater Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce will honor 2024 Award of Merit Recipient Clark Porter, a local businessman and entrepreneur. Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that a full sketch was published in the April 19 edition. The Award of Merit is presented annually to a “business or businessperson active in the community over a long period of time or has a notable record of accomplishments in civic activities.” Clark Porter has had membership in the Greater Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce since 2021.

Past recipients of the Award of Merit include Eldon B. Conklin (1991), Robert A. Porter (1992), Gale Ferguson (1993), Dr. Alexander Dodds (1994), Eleanor Jackson (1995), Korleen Spilman (1996), E. J. Noble Hospital Auxiliary (1997), Ice Storm Community Leaders (1998), Joe Laurenza (1999), Della Evans (2000), Gouverneur Rotary Club (2001), Dr. Tim Monroe (2002), Kinney Drugs, Inc. (2003), Dale and Kay Bush (2004), Fred Easton (2005), Cives Steel Co. (2006), Nancy J. Cappellino (2007), Judy Peck (2008), Dr. Robert Saide (2009), Joe and Carolyn Pistolesi (2010), Harland Brown (2011), Dick and Brad Conklin (2012), Spilman’s Garage (2013), Gouverneur Auto Parts (2014), Casablanca Restaurant (2015), Fun Unlimited (2016), Newvine’s NAPA Auto Parts (2017), New York Pizzeria (2018), Wilson and Glenda Bickford (2019), Hometown Heroes (2020-2021), Blevins Ford/Team Blevins (2022), Charles A. Gardner, Attorney (2023).

Anticipation is high in the Gouverneur community for this year’s Chamber Banquet as news spreads about local businessman/entrepreneur Clark Porter being selected for the Chamber’s 2024 Award of Merit. The banquet has been a topic of conversation at local municipal board meetings, the Gouverneur Area Development Corporation (GADC) meeting, among others. All North Country residents are encouraged to purchase their tickets early to ensure their seat at the 114th Annual Greater Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce Banquet on May 1. For more information, visit www.gouverneurchamber.net or call 315-287-0331 or visit the Chamber office at 53 Herm Towne Road, Gouverneur.

Youth Bureau Sponsors 4th Annual Trash Dash 5K in Gouverneur on April 27

by Rachel Hunter

On April 27 and 28, the St. Lawrence County Youth Bureau invites adults and youth to join them for a weekend of walking and picking up roadside trash. Residents will register and select one of five county locations. Walkers meet on Saturday, April 27, at Mills Park (Johnstown St.) in Gouverneur at 9 a.m. Other locations include Rensselaer Falls, Potsdam at 9 a.m. on Saturday, or in Massena and Ogdensburg on Sunday at 1 p.m.

Each year, the Youth Bureau schedules its Trash Dash close to, or on, Earth Day. This year, EARTHDAY.ORG commits to end plastics for the sake of human and planetary health, demanding a 60% reduction in the production of all plastics by 2040. More information, on plastic reduction, can be found on their website.

“This is a great opportunity to make a personal contribution to a cleaner environment, especially within our local communities. Our teens appreciate having service projects especially ones that are environmentally friendly and fosters civic pride. This also creates connectedness with individuals of all ages who are coming together for a good cause,” said Alexa Backus Chase, Youth Bureau Director.

Last year approximately 87 youth registered to attend which included several organizations such as Gouverneur High School’s Honor Society, PAL of Massena, Ogdensburg Key Club, Reality Check, Massena Interact Club, Lisbon Interact Club, NNCS Science Honor Society, and Heuvelton Boy Scout Troop 9.

“Trash Dashers” picked up over 1100 pounds of garbage from all five locations.

Adults, families, teens, and organization teams are welcome to participate. Email RZuhlsdorf@stlawco.gov to register or call 315.379.9464 with questions. Registration deadline is Tuesday, April 23. Parking and specific site locations can be found when registering online. Mandatory safety training is offered the day of the event.

Easter Egg Hunt Saturday at Riverview Park in Gouverneur

by Rachel Hunter

The Riverview Park Association and Gouverneur Recreation Department will present the 2024 Easter Egg Hunt Eggstravaganza on Saturday, April 13, with festivities starting at 10 a.m., at Riverview Recreational Park in Gouverneur. The public is invited and encouraged to attend.

Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that the inaugural Easter Egg Hunt, hosted by the Riverview Park Association and the Gouverneur Recreation Department, in 2023 was a success with hundreds of local youths hunting for colorful Easter Eggs on the athletic fields at the Riverview Recreational Park.

The 2024 Easter Egg Hunt Eggstravaganza will start at 10 a.m. with sign-ups, visits with the Easter Bunny, kids games, and more. The Easter Egg Hunt will start promptly at 11 a.m. for children 10 and under. It is estimated that there will be over 1000 Easter Eggs for the youths to find. There is no cost to attend, and all North Country families are welcome.

Organizers told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that the Easter Egg Hunt Eggstravaganza was scheduled to be held in mid-April, after the 2024 Easter holiday, in hopes that the athletic fields would be free of snowy conditions. All North Country children are urged to wear weather-appropriate gear for the hunt.

For many families Easter just isn’t Easter without the annual egg hunt. There have been community-wide Easter Egg Hunts in Gouverneur, Richville, Oxbow, DeKalb, and other North Country communities this 2024 Easter season, and there is much anticipation for the 2024 Easter Egg Hunt Eggstravaganza at the Riverview Recreational Park this Saturday, April 13.

Did you know? The custom of the Easter egg hunt comes from Germany. Some suggest that its origins date back to the late 16th century, when the Protestant reformer Martin Luther organized egg hunts for his congregation. The men would hide the eggs for the women and children to find. This was a nod to the story of the resurrection, in which the empty tomb was discovered by women.

In the German Lutheran tradition the Easter egg hunt is linked to the Easter Bunny – or the Easter Hare as he was originally known. The first written reference to the Easter Hare was in 1682 in Georg Franck von Franckenau’s essay, De ovis paschalibus (‘About Easter eggs’). However links between hares and rabbits and Easter go back earlier in central Europe. Hares were associated with fertility and with the Virgin Mary, and sometimes appear in paintings of the Virgin and Christ Child, and also in illuminated manuscripts. Custom had it that the hare would bring a basket of brightly painted eggs for all the children who had been good, and these would be hidden around the house and garden for the children to find.

The event is anticipated to be a great success, thanks to the volunteers and donations received from businesses and local community members in the greater Gouverneur community. To donate candy or for more information, call the Gouverneur Recreation Department at 315-287-0524 or call 757-323-9974.

In The Path of Totality: North Country views total solar eclipse

by Rachel Hunter

The North Country was in the path of totality for the Great North American Solar Eclipse on Monday, April 8.

Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that the path of totality included Gouverneur and the surrounding communities in the North Country region. Hundreds of public and private watch parties were scheduled, with people gathering at the Richville Free Library and Richville Playground, Gouverneur Public Library, Riverview Recreational Park in Gouverneur, among other local places to view the total solar eclipse. Eclipse viewing glasses were distributed throughout the North Country community, thanks to the North Country Library System (in coordination with the Solar Eclipse Activities for Libraries (SEAL) Project, managed by the Space Science Institute in Boulder, Colorado), as well as local businesses. The total solar eclipse proved to be an exceptional opportunity for family, friends, neighbors, community members, and visitors to the North Country to gather together.

The Great North American Eclipse, after years of anticipation, occurred on Monday, April 8. The total eclipse of the sun appeared in the skies above the U.S., all the way from southern Texas to northern Maine. The rare event − where the shadow of the moon plunges a narrow strip of land into darkness in the middle of the day − was an astronomical experience like no other that was unusually accessible to millions of people. The eclipse began at 3:23 p.m., and totality was at 3:29 p.m. in Gouverneur. There was some cloud cover which discouraged many “umbraphiles” or “eclipse chasers” from visiting the North Country. Livestream viewing of the eclipse was made possible by NASA.

New York State started making preparations about 18 months ago in readiness for the Great North American Eclipse. The North Country was reportedly highlighted as a good place to view the eclipse in such media outlets as USA Today and BBC News, among others. Expecting an influx of tourists, cooperation was received from the New York State Police, New York State Department of Transportation, in coordination with the St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office, Gouverneur Police Department (and other local law enforcement agencies across the state), Village of Gouverneur Department of Public Works and Town of Gouverneur Highway Department, as well as local fire departments, rescue squads, hospitals, and more. Massena and Ogdensburg’s international bridges also reported that they made special accommodations throughout the weekend to support anticipated traffic from Canada. The county’s Total Eclipse Task Force has also worked diligently the last few months to ensure there were preparations in place for any complications over the weekend.

St. Lawrence County was prepared for an influx of 50,000 or more tourists for the Great North American Eclipse. The St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce working for over a year to promote the county as a destination for Totality Seekers. As the Tourism Promotion Agent for St. Lawrence County, in partnership with the I Love New York program, one of the Chamber’s main goals was to have a strong online presence, and established a subsite, STLCtotality.com, which featured a public events calendar, approved viewing locations, an eclipse-themed playlist, where to buy local eclipse merchandise, view tips, safety precautions and more alongside the Chamber’s digital guides to St. Lawrence County, a business directory, and more. The Chamber encouraged local communities, tourism partners, and event planners to help provide a positive experience for visitors this weekend and in an effort to encourage return visits.

“Though we are a rural county, our area is attractive for those looking for a quieter destination with minimal traffic and an abundance of open skies,” said Kathryn Puleo, Tourism and Events Manager for the STLC Chamber. “We may have a few of these visitors return during our peak season to enjoy our beautiful waterways, hiking and multi-use trails, and premier fishing locations. Between the Canadian Border, the Thousand Islands Region, and the Adirondack Foothills, we really are in the middle of everywhere. We just need to continue to think outside the box and work together to put our best county face forward!”

The St. Lawrence County Chamber also reported that most of the county’s lodging was fully booked, as visitors planned to “arrive early and stay late” in the North Country region.

The Gouverneur Central School District was closed on Monday, April 8, utilizing an unused snow day. The District purchased viewing glasses for all students and employees. Any remaining viewing glasses were provided to the Gouverneur Public Library for the public’s use at the Watch Party at 60 Church St., Gouverneur. Much gratitude was extended for the donation. Other school districts closed for the day included Edwards-Knox Central, Harrisville Central, Hammond Central, and Clifton-Fine Central. The Hermon-DeKalb School District held classes on Monday, April 8. H-D Supt. Mark White, a former earth science teacher, took time to excite and educate the students about the total solar eclipse in preparation for the big moment. The Hermon-DeKalb family gathered outside the school for the moment of totality.

The total solar eclipse was also the talk of local politicians. New York State Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush (R,C-Black River) took to social media to encourage all to support the businesses in the path of totality.

At the Town of Gouverneur Council meeting on April 9, Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr. estimated that there were 200-300 people at the Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center parking lot and the Riverview Recreational Park in Gouverneur to observe the eclipse. “That was really cool,” he said.

Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall said, “I thought the whole event across the North Country was very good.”

Mayor McDougall added that there was only one major incident. The New York State Police issued the following report: On April 6, at approximately 3:04 p.m., State Police in Watertown responded to State Route 12E in the town of Brownville, for an individual who fell out of a moving trailer. Investigation revealed a 2019 Gray Ram pick-up truck, operated by Robert P. Woroniecki, age 59 from Stony Brook, NY was pulling a 2024 Gray Airstream (House Trailer) westbound on SR 12E. The driver's wife, Monika I. Woroniecka age 58, along with other family members were riding in the trailer for the last 20 minutes of their trip from Stony Brook. Witnesses behind the Airstream claimed they saw the passenger side door of the Airstream open, Monika Woroniecka’s arm hanging on the door after the wind caused the door to swing open, causing her to be thrown from the Airstream. Monika subsequently struck her head on the shoulder of the roadway. Cape Vincent Ambulance transported Monika to Samaritan Medical Center’s Emergency Room where she succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced deceased. The investigation is continuing.

Congresswoman Elise Stefanik attended the Adirondack Sky Center and Observatory’s “Totality in Tupper Lake” event at the LP Quinn Elementary School with members of the community and visitors to watch the eclipse. On April 8th, 2024, a total solar eclipse took place across the United States with NY-21 mostly in the path of the eclipse. The Adirondack Sky Center is one of twelve locations nationwide that will be providing NASA with a live video feed of the eclipse. “The historic solar eclipse has been a huge economic opportunity to showcase our Adirondack small businesses and communities. Our district is so proud that the Adirondack Sky Center and Observatory was chosen to play a pivotal role in today’s historic eclipse by supplying NASA with one of only twelve live video feeds of the event. Because of this incredible organization in NY-21, millions were able to witness and enjoy what for many is a once in a lifetime event,” said Congresswoman Elise Stefanik.

The Great North American Solar Eclipse is still the talk of the town, with many local residents eager for the next total solar eclipse, which is expected to occur in August of 2044. The eclipse will begin in Greenland, sweep through Canada and end around sunset in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota. The next total eclipse that New York State will see is expected on May 1, 2079. It will start in eastern Pennsylvania and end in the Atlantic Ocean. A total eclipse will be visible along the path of Philadelphia, New York City, Boston, and Portland, Maine in the United States. The North Country is not anticipated to be within the path of totality for the 2044 or the 2079 total solar eclipse. It is estimated that an area will only see an eclipse every 300-400 years. See more coverage in this week’s edition of the Gouverneur Tribune Press.

Richville Free Library to hold Eclipse Watch Party

by Rachel Hunter

North Country residents and visitors are encouraged to enjoy the Great North American Eclipse on Monday, April 8 at the Richville Free Library.

The Richville Free Library’s Eclipse Watch Party will be held on Monday, April 8, noon to 4:30 p.m., at the Richville Free Library, 41 School Street, Richville.

The Richville Free Library, established in 1932, officially took ownership of the building at 41 School Street, Richville, on January 1, 2022. The building was originally built in the 1960s, and was long the location of the Richville Christian Fellowship Church, which held weekly services there from 1992 to 2021 before moving to a new location in Gouverneur, and becoming the North Country Christian Fellowship Church. It was the long-held vision of Pastor Ford Reynolds of Richville that 41 School St. would be an excellent location for the Richville Free Library, and thanks to $90,000 in state funding secured through New York State Senator Patty Ritchie (R-Heuvelton) and the support from greater Richville community, that vision has become a vibrant reality.

Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that the move from 87 Main Street to 41 School Street in Richville allowed the Richville Free Library to grow and expand its offering for its patrons. In the past two years, the Richville Free Library under the leadership of Library Director Nancy Garrand, has become a community hub – a true resource for those in Richville and the surrounding communities. The Richville Free Library now has over 5,000 books available for loan alongside a myriad of other resources (computer workstations, thriving Children’s section, periodicals, historical resources, and so much more.) The Richville Free Library has featured community events, educational events, club meetings, musical experiences, and more for people of all ages since the library opened its doors at 41 School Street in Richville. The Richville Free Library just this past week held its Second Annual Easter Egg Hunt which utilized the spacious grounds adjacent to the Richville Free Library and connecting to the Richville Playgrounds.

As anticipation grows for the Great North American Eclipse on April 8, 2024, the Richville Free Library is hoping that the grounds will once again be well-utilized. St. Lawrence County is anticipating 50,000 tourists will be visiting as the North Country is in the path of totality. Richville Free Library Director Nancy Garrand has officially extended an invitation for all to enjoy the solar eclipse from the grounds around the Richville Free Library extending down towards the Richville Playground.

The Richville Free Library Eclipse Watch Party will be held on Monday, April 8, noon to 4:30 p.m. There is no admission fee, or registration necessary. All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, due to the danger to the eyes when viewing the solar eclipse. Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair or something to sit on, such as a blanket or tarp. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

Thanks to the North Country Library System, free eclipse glasses for viewing will be available. The distribution of glasses and eclipse information to libraries is led by the nationwide Solar Eclipse Activities for Libraries (SEAL) Project, managed by the Space Science Institute in Boulder, Colorado.

In preparation for the stellar event, the Richville Free Library is hosting Eclipse-related workshops that will be fun for the whole family. On Wednesday, April 3, the Richville Free Library held an information session about the Eclipse, complete with a question and answer period. This Saturday, April 6, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., there will be a Pinhole Camera and Viewing Shield making class. All those in attendance are asked to bring an empty cereal box. All other materials will be provided. Call the library at 315-287-1481 to reserve a spot.

The Richville Free Library is encouraging all to remember to prioritize health and safety during the total solar eclipse.

Keep Your Eyes Protected: Do not look directly at the sun during the eclipse (except during the limited time of totality when the sun is completely covered by the moon—and even then, with caution). Sunglasses will not protect your eyes. If your eyes are exposed to the sun without the appropriate protection, it can cause “eclipse blindness,” which can temporarily or permanently damage your eyes. One of the best ways to view a solar eclipse is through a pinhole projector where you look at a projected image made through a pinhole in cardboard paper. Or even easier, grab a colander from the kitchen (not the mesh kind, the one with holes in plastic or metal)! Another way to view a solar eclipse without harming your eyes is by using International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 12312-2 certified eclipse glasses from a trusted source.

Don’t Forget the Sunscreen: Springtime weather can be warm and sunny. The sun throughout the day can be very bright, including during the partial phases of a solar eclipse. It can damage your skin, even in cooler temperatures or on a cloudy day. To help prevent skin damage, wear a wide-brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants if possible when outdoors. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. Sunscreen should be applied to dry skin at least 15 minutes before going outdoors and again after swimming or perspiring.

Be Prepared: While on the Road: Traffic volume is expected to be very high on the day of the eclipse. Plan on staying in one place for the day. If you must be out, allow for plenty of extra travel time. Consider using 511NY for current travel conditions. Streets or bridges may be closed and depending on your location you may run into extensive traffic jams. Prepare by bringing water, fuel, medications, and food in your vehicle. Do not stop to view the eclipse along the roadway, especially interstates, parkways, and freeways. Choose a safe viewing destination off the road and arrive early to ensure you are ready for the big show!

Boots and a Jacket: Springtime weather can be cold, snowy, or have significant rainfall. Be prepared with the appropriate clothing/footwear, such as jackets and boots. Have alternate plans should the weather present hazards. If heading out on the trail to see the eclipse, check trail conditions. The Adirondacks can have snow, icy, and muddy conditions depending on elevation.

The Richville Free Library is just one of the local libraries in the North Country Library System (NCLS) planning a watch party event.

The Gouverneur Public Library will hold a watch party for 3-4 p.m., at 60 Church St., Gouverneur. There will be space-themed desserts, and a free raffle for a NCLS Eclipse-themed T-Shirt. Gouverneur Public Library Director Karen King told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that the T-shirt glows in the dark. The drawing will take place right after the total solar eclipse. All patrons are encouraged enter the free raffle during their next visit to the Gouverneur Public Library. You do not need to be present to win. The library will contact the winner after the drawing. On April 2, the Gouverneur Public Library announced that it is running low on the 2,000 eclipse glasses received through NCLS in preparation of the eclipse. “We are low on Eclipse Glasses. We unfortunately must limit people coming in for glasses to five-a-person. We at the Gouverneur Library take this as a sign that we have done well helping our community prepare for the eclipse, and for that we are grateful. We ask for your patience as we limit glasses, and hope that you understand.” For more information, call the Gouverneur Public Library at 315-287-0191.

Meeting at the Gouverneur Public Library on April 1, the Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce encouraged all visitors to enjoy all that “The One and Only Gouverneur” has to offer – accommodations, eateries, stores, etc. They also urged the motoring public to travel with caution on Monday, April 8, and to leave plenty of time for daily commutes. Chamber President Tim Reddick said: “It will impact all of us. It will be a legitimate impact on Monday afternoon, from 1 p.m. till 5:30 p.m.” Chamber Vice President Ray Babowicz then said: “If you got to be somewhere, go at 11 a.m. at least.” Visit the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce website, www.gouverneurchamber.net, for more details on the total solar eclipse and businesses in the Gouverneur community.

The Gouverneur Tribune Press also received the following Eclipse-related news briefs:

From New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) Acting Commissioner Daniel F. Martuscello III: On April 8, 2024 New York State will be at the center of a total solar eclipse which will impact all DOCCS facilities with some level of darkness during this event. However, 23 facilities fall directly within the path of totality and will experience total darkness, ranging from approximately one and a half minutes to approximately three and a half minutes. For facilities in the path of totality, visitation will be canceled and publicized on the Department webpage. Visitation at all other facilities will end at 2 p.m. The following 23 facilities will be in the path of totality during the eclipse: Adirondack, Albion, Altona, Attica, Auburn, Bare Hill, Cape Vincent, Cayuga, Clinton, Collins, Five Points, Franklin, Gouverneur, Groveland, Lakeview Shock, Marcy, Mid-State, Mohawk, Orleans, Riverview, Upstate, Wende, and Wyoming.

From St. Lawrence University: SLU is celebrating its position within the path of totality with a new website dedicated to informing the public about the Total Solar Eclipse on April 8, 2024. The website includes an explainer video from Henry Priest Professor of Physics Aileen O'Donoghue and will feature a livestream of the event with expert commentary. For more info, visit: stlawu.edu/total-solar-eclipse-2024.

From The Ogdensburg History Museum: To help the public better understand and prepare for this celestial phenomenon, Dr. Timothy Abel, PhD, will give a presentation at the Ogdensburg History Museum, 206 Ford St. The presentation will take place on Sunday, April 7th at 1 p.m. at the Ogdensburg History Museum, 206 Ford St. It is free and open to the public, and all are encouraged to attend and learn more about this rare astronomical event.

From St. Lawrence County Public Transit: “On April 8th, St. Lawrence County is anticipating tourist travel that may cause major traffic congestion. For rider and driver safety, buses scheduled to be in the path of totality during the eclipse will pause operations and will resume once it is finished. Please expect delays of an hour or more for all stops scheduled after 2:30 p.m. Affected routes: 22, 61, 62, 63, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70A, 70B, 71, 73, 74. Anyone with necessary travel affected by these changes may reach out to First Mile Last Mile at 315-644-6944.”

For more information on the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse, visit science.nasa.gov/eclipses.

Gouverneur’s own Nort Taylor to celebrate 102nd birthday with card shower

by Rachel Hunter

Gouverneur native Norton W. Taylor will celebrate his 102nd birthday with a card shower at his home on Sunday, April 7, 2024.

Norton Warren Taylor (affectionally known as “Nort”), the son of Martin Warren Taylor and Jessie May Robinson Taylor, was born on April 7, 1922 at his grandmother’s home at 87 Rock Island St., Gouverneur. Nort graduated from Gouverneur High School with the Class of 1940. He is a U.S. Air Force veteran (WWII, 1942-45), and enjoyed employment at Kinney Drugs throughout his career. Nort has been dedicated to serving those in the Gouverneur community and beyond. For over 60 years, he served as a member of the Gouverneur Rotary Club. He also served as president of the Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce. Nort is a member at the First Presbyterian Church, and has been involved as a member of the Gouverneur Masonic Lodge No. 217, along with other civic groups over the years. He also has enjoyed hobbies such as traveling, gardening, reading, etc.

Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that Nort Taylor had a drive-by birthday celebration and parade for his 100th birthday in 2022, and April 7 was declared “Nort Taylor Day” by the Village of Gouverneur. Nort has enjoyed quiet celebrations at home surrounded by the love of his friends, family and community members ever since.

A birthday card shower is being organized for Nort Taylor’s 102nd birthday on April 7, 2024. All cards can be mailed to the following address: Nort Taylor, 31 Meadow Lane, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

LOCASH, David Lee Murphy to headline double-header concert at County Fair

by Rachel Hunter

The 2024 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair will have a double-header headline concert featuring Country Artists David Lee Murphy and LOCASH on Saturday, August 3, 7 p.m., at the grandstand. The official announcement was made this week by Fair Manager Don Peck. The 2024 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair will open on Tuesday, July 30 and run through Sunday, August 4, at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds. Reserved seating is $70 per person. General admission is $50 per person. Starting in early April, concert tickets will be available for purchase online (www.gouverneurfair.net) or through the Fair Office at 315-287-3010.

First on the grandstand stage will be American Country Music Singer-Songwriter David Lee Murphy, best known for his #1 country hits "Dust on the Bottle" and "Everything's Gonna Be Alright", as well as the hit songs "Party Crowd", "Out with a Bang", "Every Time I Get Around You", "The Road You Leave Behind", and "Loco." He has released five solo studio albums: Out with a Bang (1994), Gettin' Out the Good Stuff (1996), We Can't All Be Angels (1997), Tryin' to Get There (2004), and No Zip Code (2018). His songs "Just Once" and "We Can't All Be Angels" appeared on the soundtracks of the films 8 Seconds (1994) and Black Dog (1998), respectively. Murphy took a hiatus from recording in 2004, and has co-written several singles for other artists, including the hits "Living in Fast Forward" for Kenny Chesney, "Anywhere With You" for Jake Owen, "Big Green Tractor" for Jason Aldean, and "Are You Gonna Kiss Me or Not" for Thompson Square. On April 6, 2018, Murphy and Kenny Chesney released a studio album together, No Zip Code, which features their hit song "Everything's Gonna Be Alright".

Next on the grandstand stage will be the Country Music Duo, LOCASH. Named “country music’s iconic feel-good duo” by PEOPLE, LOCASH – Preston Brust and Chris Lucas – are adding a new dimension to their hitmaking career with the launch of their own record label – Galaxy Label Group. With distribution by BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, LOCASH will continue “hitting homers and serving up first-class songs,” as hailed by American Songwriter. With fresh music expected to release in spring, this new era follows back-to-back high-profile collaborations “Let It Slide” (Leslie Jordan, Blanco Brown, LOCASH) and “Beach Boys” (feat. The Beach Boys’ Mike Love and Bruce Johnston). LOCASH is known for Platinum breakout “I Love This Life” and Gold #1’s “One Big Country Song” and “I Know Somebody.” LOCASH has earned eight charting singles, two successful albums, nearly 800 million global streams, and hold a history of nods from the genre’s biggest awards shows since launching in 2015.

Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fairgoers will not want to miss these two great shows.

Fair Manager Don Peck told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that the budget used to be less than $35,000 for the country headline star, but that had changed in recent years. Now, the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Association budgets $100,000+ in order to bring in top quality talent for the annual county fair. Sponsorships from local businesses and community members for the Saturday concert are being sought for the 2024 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair. Those interested are encouraged to call Fair Manager Peck at 315-771-7690.

Fair Manager Peck said the fair board is already in talks about the talent for the 2025 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair, and it is hoped that details will be announced during the 2024 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair.

For more information on the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair, visit www.gouverneurfair.net.