The Peru Gazette

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Peru, NY, June 23, 2026 – Primary elections typically attract few voters. That wasn’t true in Peru, where ballots  cast outnumbered any other Clinton County district. 

Absentee and Early Votes are not included in the totals that follow.  

In the competitive race to replace Elise Stefanik in the 21st Congressional District, Peru’s Republicans voted: 

Robert Smullen – 118 

Anthony Constantino – 152

Peru Democrats voted: 

Stuart J. Amoriell – 89 

Blake Gendebian – 106

471 ballots were cast at St. Augustine’s Parish Center. Combined with 153 Absentee and Early ballots, 624 voters cast ballots.

Peru, NY , June 23, 2026 – Democrat and Republican Party members are eligible to vote in today’s primary. As of 8:45 a.m. about 50 Peru voters had cast ballot at St. Augustine’s Parish Center. Voters will determine the party Congressional candidates for the November election. The Polls are open until 9 p.m.

Sample ballots for each party.

ALTONA, N.Y., June 22, 2026  — Tucked away in the scenic countryside of northern Clinton County, Feinberg Park Campground offers visitors a chance to experience one of the Adirondack Coast’s hidden gems.

Following recent improvements to campground facilities and infrastructure, the Town of Altona is inviting campers, families, outdoor enthusiasts, and travelers to discover a destination that combines outdoor recreation, local history, and small-town charm. Located just minutes from the Canadian border and a short drive from Plattsburgh, Feinberg Park features wooded campsites, playgrounds, sports courts, open green spaces, and convenient on-site food service, all set within a peaceful natural setting.

In 2024, the park expanded its recreational offerings with the addition of a walking trail that winds through the property, providing opportunities for exercise, wildlife viewing, and a closer look at the area’s natural beauty. The trail has quickly become a favorite feature for both campers and local residents.

History lovers will also find something special at Feinberg Park. The property is home to the remains of the historic McGregor Powerhouse and hydroelectric dam, an impressive early twentieth-century engineering project built along the Little Chazy River. The stone ruins stand as a reminder of the region’s industrial heritage and create a unique backdrop for visitors exploring or staying in the park.

“Feinberg Park offers so much more than a place to camp,” said Brady Smart, interim Town Supervisor. “Whether you’re looking to enjoy the outdoors, walk the trails, learn about local history, grab a bite to eat, or simply spend quality time with family and friends, there’s something here for everyone. We’re proud to continue investing in this community asset and welcoming visitors to experience everything Altona has to offer.”

From weekend campers and seasonal guests to history enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers, Feinberg Park offers an affordable, family-friendly escape where nature, recreation, and history come together in one memorable setting. As travelers increasingly seek authentic outdoor experiences, Feinberg Park continues to stand out as a place to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy the beauty of New York’s North Country.

Reservations for campsites and seasonal stays are available through the Town of Altona.

For more information or to book a stay, visit www.townaltonany.gov/feinberg-park-campground.

Jessica Wescott

Patient’s DAISY Award nomination highlights nurse’s lasting impact

 Elizabethtown, NY – Every other week, Donna Haynes settles in for another infusion at University of Vermont Health Network – Elizabethtown Community Hospital – a routine that has become part of her life for more than a year and a half.

The visits can be long. The questions don’t always come all at once. And like many patients managing ongoing treatment, Haynes has learned that what happens in between appointments matters just as much as the care she receives while she’s there.

It was in those moments – the questions that linger, the need for reassurance and the search for answers – that one nurse began to stand out: Jessica Wescott, RN.

“Jessica has gone out of her way to educate me on ways to improve my quality of life,” Haynes says. “If she doesn’t know the answer to my questions, she always finds the time to gather information and report the answer to me the same day, even if it’s a phone call later.”

For Haynes, it’s that follow-through that makes a difference – care that doesn’t end when the appointment does. It’s an important part of building relationships with infusion patients that often grow over weeks, months and sometimes years.

Haynes says she’s also noticed how Wescott shows up for others.

“I’ve watched Jessica with her fellow co-workers, and she is always willing to lend a hand where needed,” Haynes says. Colleagues say Wescott brings a listening ear and steady support to every patient she sees.

Wescott’s approach – combining knowledge, compassion and a willingness to go the extra step – is what led Haynes to nominate her for the DAISY Award, a national recognition honoring nurses who make a meaningful difference in the lives of their patients.

“Jessica has a broad range of knowledge and willingness to go above and beyond,” Haynes adds. “I feel she deserves the DAISY Award.”

Wescott was honored with the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses during a surprise ceremony with her colleagues earlier this month. During the award presentation, she received a certificate commending her as an extraordinary nurse. Tate-Gutierrez, like all honorees, also received a DAISY Award pin and a beautiful and meaningful sculpture called “A Healer’s Touch,” which is hand-cared by artists of the Shona Tribe in Zimbabwe.

Elizabethtown Community Hospital launched the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses in 2022 to recognize and reward licensed nurses for making a meaningful difference in the lives of their patients. A nomination form can be filled out online at UVMHealth.org. Nurses may be nominated by patients, families and colleagues.  A committee reviews nominations and awards a deserving nurse each quarter.

The award is part of the DAISY Foundation’s mission to recognize the extraordinary, compassionate nursing care they provide patients and families every day. The DAISY Foundation is a national not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System). The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families. More information is available atDAISYfoundation.org.

At a Board of Regents meeting last Monday, state officials proposed eliminating credit-based diploma requirements.

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The Effort Brings Together Leaders from Government, Business, Sports and Community Organizations to Assess the Potential of Bringing the Olympic Flame Back to New York State

Albany, June 22, 2026 – Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the formation of the Lake Placid-New York City Olympic & Paralympic Winter Games Exploratory Committee, a statewide effort tasked with evaluating the feasibility of a future Winter Games concept linking Lake Placid’s Olympic legacy with New York City’s global platform. The committee will assess whether a modern, regionally coordinated Winter Games model-built around existing venues, sustainability, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement could support the State’s broader economic, tourism, infrastructure, and regional development goals.

“The time is now to return the Olympic flame back to New York,” Governor Hochul said. “Milano Cortina showcased the immense possibility that comes with a dual city Olympic Games. It’s clear we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build on Lake Placid’s Olympic legacy, New York City’s global platform, and the strengths that make our State unique. That’s why I’ve assembled some of the best and the brightest in sports, government and community leadership to take the steps necessary to ensure New York is in the best possible position to make the dream of a Lake Placid-New York City Olympic & Paralympic Winter Games a reality.”

About the Exploratory Committee Read more »

John Bingham, US Navy, 1961-1969, Vietnam

John felt a duty to serve, following the example of two uncles—one an admiral and the other a physician who served in Korea.

Originally hoping to become a submariner, he was unable to pass the pressure test required for submarine training. Instead, he attended Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island, later spending a year in graduate studies focused on defense intelligence and Arabic in preparation for a diplomatic assignment.

For two years, John served aboard an ocean-going minesweeper, a non-magnetic warship designed to locate and destroy naval mines in deep waters. He described it as “a wooden ship with iron men,” where every piece of iron had to be carefully tracked.

His final assignment in 1968 involved intelligence operations in the Mediterranean, monitoring Soviet naval activity. He also carried the disappointment of being unable to reach the USS Pueblo before its capture. Awarded the Naval Commendation Medal, John reflects that warfare is awful and demands immense sacrifice. 

Asked if he would serve again, his answer is simple: “Yes—but I’d do it better.”

Bernard Gwinn, US Navy, 1971-1977, Vietnam

Bernie’s father was in the US Navy, one uncle was in the US Marines and two uncles were in the US Army. In April of 1971, Bernie was in the early enlistment program. For the first two year of his marriage, he was gone 15 out of 24 months.

Bernie was a hull technician (ship fitter) and damage control man, being responsible for the watertight integrity of the ship. In 1972, Bernie was assigned to the USS Edward McDonnell and was one of five hull technicians on the ship. He was on the ship for 3 years and was only sick once as he knew what not to eat!

Bernie wanted to retire from the military so after two years of inactive service with the Navy, he joined the Army. In Fort Drumm, Watertown, he was a heavy vehicle operator, drove a deuce and a half and got supplies and rations for the field.

One of Bernie’s best memories was when he crossed the artic ocean and got his “blue nose”. During that US Navy artic cruise, he got to go on a Dutch ship and eat their food and drink their beer. Read more »

C. Edward Bombard Jr., US Army, 1960-63, Cold War

After basic and clerk-typist training at Fort Dix, Ed trained at Fort Eustis, Virginia, as a Transportation Movement Specialist, coordinating the movement of military vehicles. He was later deployed to North Africa with the 3rd Army, serving in a small unit that oversaw port operations for the Libyan government. Although the unit included ten officers, Ed recalls that the enlisted men handled most of the day-to-day work.

At just 20 years old, Ed earned a rapid promotion to E-5 after stepping in as chief of operations during another soldier’s medical leave. During his 25 months of service, he valued both the responsibility and the opportunity to travel aboard C-130 flights to France, Germany, and England.

Looking back, Ed says he would enlist again without hesitation, calling military service a rewarding experience that taught him responsibility and maturity at a young age.

Richard Brosseau, US Navy, 1966-1970, Vietnam

Richard joined the U.S. Navy through the delayed enlistment program while working construction in Vermont. Service ran in his family—his father served in World War II, and his brother was also in the Navy.

He trained in Pensacola, Florida, where he became a plane captain, responsible for inspecting propeller aircraft and ensuring they were ready for flight. Later, in Oceana at Virginia Beach, he worked on F-4 Phantom jets, maintaining those same high standards.

Richard spent three months aboard the USS Independence, including a stop in London, where he took part in performances held for the Queen. He later completed a nine-month European cruise, spending 40 days at sea before sighting land.

During carrier war games, lights went dark as opposing aircraft searched for them—if found, 100-pound bags of flour hitting the deck meant they’d been “hit.” Richard valued his Navy service and the opportunity to see the world. Read more »

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6:00 PM

1. Call Meeting to Order

2. Pledge of Allegiance

3. Roll Call

4. MOTION: Approval of Minutes for the Regular Meeting of June 8, 2026 and Special Meeting of June 15, 2026. 

5. Community Input. 

6. DISCUSSION:   

7. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Approve Work Change Directive No: GC-CD.07 from Murnane Bldg. Contractors.

8. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Approve Work Change Directive No: M-CD.02 from K & L Plumbing & Heating Inc. 

9. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Approve Work Change Directive No: E-CD.02 Triangle Electrical Systems, Inc.

10.   RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION:  Approve Sales Contract with INQUIK Bridge Systems for Wescott Rd. Bridge Replacement Project.

11. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION:  Approve Proposal with The Precision Group for CIPP Lining for Two 30” Culverts on Laphams Mills Rd.

12. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Approval to Hire a Part Time Seasonal Employee Water/Sewer/Parks.  

13. DISCUSSION: C & S Companies Project Status Report for Replacement of Telegraph Road over Dry Mill Brook.

14. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Approval of Money Transfer from Water Debt Service to Pay H34 Water Project Bill.

15. DISCUSSION: Other Business. – Councilmen

16. DISCUSSION: Other Business. – Dept. Heads 

17. DISCUSSION: Public Comments on Agenda Items Only.

18. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION:  Pay Bills – June 2026

19. MOTION:  Adjourn to Executive Session.

20. MOTION:  Return from Executive Session. 

21. MOTION:  Adjourn Meeting.

Click here for the Vermont Public story 

Includes multiple Adirondack rescues

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Forest Rangers respond to search and rescue incidents statewide. Working with other State agencies, local emergency response organizations, and volunteer search and rescue groups, Forest Rangers locate and extract lost, injured, or distressed people from across New York State.

Iamlet of Pine Plains

Dutchess County
Wildland Fire: On June 5 at 1:30 p.m., Forest Rangers Grillo and Pries responded to a 911 radio call about a brush fire on Shultz Hill Road. When Rangers arrived, they observed the fire spreading in a field of grasses and scrubs. Rangers worked with Amenia, Milan, Millerton, and Pine Plains Fire Departments on the suppression efforts. By 3:45 p.m., firefighters contained the 0.5-acre fire.

Pine Plains fire

Town of North Hudson
Essex County
Wilderness Rescue: On June 8 at 9:46 p.m., Ray Brook Dispatch received a call from Essex County about a 911 text for an ill hiker on the Lillian Brook trail in the Dix Mountain Wilderness. At approximately 1:30 a.m., Rangers and a Paramedic from Schroon Lake EMS reached the 52-year-old from Potsdam. Rangers determined the hiker could not continue on their own. The Paramedic provided IV fluids and then Rangers carried the subject to the Elk Lake trailhead where they were met by a Schroon Lake Ambulance. Resources were clear at 5:40 a.m.

City of Albany
Albany County
Prescribed Fire: On June 9, A Forest Ranger joined staff from the DEC’s Divisions of Fish and Wildlife and Lands and Forests, and Albany Pine Bush to conduct a controlled burn of 29 acres at the Albany Pine Bush.

Prescribed fire is an important land management tool used to improve habitat for lands and wildlife. These burns are regulated by law and regulation and require technical expertise to safely conduct. Controlled burns help prevent the spread of invasive species, and in some areas, prescribed fire is used to reduce the buildup of wood, timber litter, and other fuel to reduce the potential for wildfires that threaten public safety and critical infrastructure. DEC carefully and responsibly implements prescribed fires only when conditions are favorable to meet land management goals.

Albany Pine Bush prescribed burn

Burn Boss Briggs at Albany Pine Bush prescribed burn

Town of Keene
Essex County
Wilderness Rescue: On June 9 at 4:04 p.m., Ray Brook Dispatch received a call from a member of the Student Conservation Association about one of their members having a seizure while doing trail work in Avalanche Pass. Forest Ranger Odell spoke to the trail crew’s supervisor who said the 23-year-old from Pennsylvania had epilepsy that could be affected by exertion in the hot weather. New York State Police Pilot Sergeant Beck flew Rangers Bowler and Martin to the subject. They loaded the subject into the helicopter, and Sergeant Beck flew them to Adirondack Medical Center. Resources were clear at 6:11 p.m.  Read more »

Peru Gazette 2019 file photo

LAKE PLACID NY (June 16, 2026) – The Lake Placid and I Love NY Horse Shows are returning to the North Elba Show Grounds for the 57th time this summer, bringing nearly 1,000 horses and their riders to the Adirondacks. The equestrian competitions will take place over two weeks, between June 23 and July 5, with more than $700,000 in prize money awarded.

The Lake Placid Horse Show (LPHS) takes place from June 23 – 28, beginning at 8:00 a.m. each day. The event will feature two weeks of Olympic-level equestrian competition. The I Love NY Horse Show is scheduled to take place from June 30 – July 5, also beginning at 8:00 a.m.; ending at approximately 5:00 p.m. each day. There will be no competition on June 29.

Tickets to the events may be purchased at the gate. Admission is as follows: free admission on Tuesdays; Wednesday – Friday $8, Saturday – Sunday  $12. Veterans receive a 50% discount.

Children 12 and under receive free admission when accompanied by a paying adult. Organizers are hosting “Community Appreciation Day sponsored by Uihlein Foundation” on Saturday, June 27 with free admission for local residents, a dog costume contest, and other family activities. Read more »