Click here for the NCPR story 

Albany, June 10, 2026 – Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that nearly $140 million in federal funding is available to support counterterrorism and emergency preparedness efforts across the state. The funding, provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency through its FY 2025 Homeland Security Grant Program and its Emergency Management Performance Grant, supports regional homeland security preparedness efforts, including planning, organization, equipment, training and exercise activities which are critical to sustaining and improving community prevention, protection, response, and recovery capabilities. The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services manages these programs in close coordination with local stakeholders.

FEMA’s Homeland Security Grant Program is comprised of three separate risk-based grants aimed at assisting state, local and tribal efforts in preventing, preparing for, protecting against and responding to acts of terrorism. Those programs are the State Homeland Security Program, the Urban Area Security Initiative and Operation Stonegarden.

Note – Clinton County awarded three grants. Scroll down to see the exact amounts. 

Award amounts are listed below: Read more »

Changes Are Part of Ongoing Work to Improve Affordability and Long-Term Sustainability

UVM Health Statement, June 9, 2026 – BURLINGTON, Vt. – University of Vermont Health today informed employees that 142 positions have been eliminated. Of those, 76 positions have been permanently eliminated, and 66 will be posted as new roles with restructured job descriptions. The majority of these workforce reductions are in areas not providing direct patient care, with targeted clinical changes where necessary.

UVM Health also notified additional employees that the health system is undertaking a reorganization of their positions or departments.

These actions are part of a larger and urgent effort to address significant financial shortfalls, improve sustainability, and ensure long-term access to high-quality health care across the region.

Today’s actions, which are happening systemwide in Vermont and Northern New York, support the following ongoing goals:

• Continue to align services and capacity with patient demand.
• Reduce administrative complexity and duplication.
• Consolidate certain functions to operate more efficiently.
• Improve how our teams work together to provide care.

The health system’s HR team is working with affected employees, offering transition support and opportunities to pursue other roles within the organization. The team is also engaging with union partners and ensuring employees receive the support and protections outlined in their contracts.

“These are extremely difficult decisions because of their impact on our valued colleagues,” said UVM Health Chief Executive Officer Stephen Leffler, MD. “We must make these hard choices to ensure we can continue to provide high-quality care that is accessible and more affordable for the communities we serve.” 

Addressing a significant financial challenge

These changes are necessary to address financial and operational pressures that UVM Health is facing along with hospitals and health systems nationwide. The health system is facing a projected $300+ million financial gap over the next three years. Since January, UVM Health has seen financial losses that amount to roughly $460,000 per day.

There are significant efforts already underway across the organization to begin addressing this gap, including:

• Reducing temporary contract “locum” and “traveler” staff (providers, nursing and non-nursing).
• Pausing discretionary spending.
• Right-sizing operations to hospitals’ daily patient census.
• Reducing scheduling backlogs and improving patient access in areas like radiology and endoscopy.
• Pausing variable pay for leaders.
• Transforming clinical schedules system-wide to increase patient access to care.

The changes also address the organization’s broader affordability goals by achieving greater operational efficiency. 

Ongoing Focus on Administrative Efficiency

UVM Health is continuing a yearslong effort to reduce administrative expenses across the health system.

• In July 2025, the system eliminated 146 roles – 77 of which were filled – mostly in “shared service” administrative support functions.
• That built on earlier actions the health system took throughout the year to gradually cut several hundred primarily non-direct patient care roles.
• Late last year, multiple senior leadership positions were eliminated as part of a restructuring at the UVM Health system level. 

Looking ahead

This sustainability work will continue over the next several years, in response to anticipated shifts in reimbursement for patient care and the need to embrace a new model for health care providers, here and across the country.

UVM Health expects additional actions will be needed over time, along with continued focus on protecting access to care, maintaining quality and safety and improving affordability.

“These steps are necessary to address the financial realities facing health care today,” Dr. Leffler said. “They are part of a longer-term effort to build a more sustainable system that can continue to serve our communities for years to come.”

Click here for the VPR story 

Plattsburgh, NY – [June 9, 2026] – Champlain Valley Educational Services (CVES) Career and Technical Education (CV-TEC) proudly recognizes Shaelene Dedrick, a young professional from the CV-TEC Mineville Campus, for earning a Gold Medal and crowned National Champion at the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference (NLSC).

Shaelene, a young professional in Dr. Todd Menia’s New Visions Medical Careers program, representing CV-TEC & Ticonderoga Central School, achieved national distinction as the Gold Medalist in the Job Skill Demonstration (Open) competition, rising to the top among the nation’s most talented competitors.

The SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference, held annually in Atlanta, is the nation’s premier showcase of career and technical education, bringing together more than 19,000 participants and featuring over 6,500 state champions competing in industry-driven events aligned to real-world workforce expectations.

The Job Skill Demonstration (Open) competition evaluates a participant’s ability to perform and clearly explain an entry-level technical skill, using hands-on demonstrations supported by practical applications, experiments, or visual aids. Competitors are required to deliver a timed presentation that highlights both technical proficiency and communication skills, reflecting the critical combination of competencies needed in today’s workforce.

Shaelene’s accomplishment reflects the high level of skill development, confidence, and professionalism fostered through CV-TEC’s New Visions Medical Careers program and her dedication to excellence in her field.

In addition to Shaelene’s national gold medal achievement, CV-TEC proudly represented New York State across multiple competitions at the national level. CV-TEC competitors included:

• Shaelene Dedrick (Ticonderoga Central School) – Job Skill Demonstration (Open) – Gold Medalist
• Bryan DesForge (Saranac Central School) – Pin Design
• Owen Fuller (Peru Central School) – Automotive Service Technology
• Hunter Garrand (Peru Central School), Damian Lannon (Saranac Central School), Jasmine LaValley (Northern Adirondack Central School), and Jacob Locke-Betters (Ausable Valley Central School) – Entrepreneurship Team Competition
• Gabriella Gill (Keene Central School) – Prepared Speech

CV-TEC was also proud to have a New York State SkillsUSA Officer represent New York at the national conference, demonstrating leadership and service at the highest level of the organization.

• Bailey Douglas (Ausable Valley Central School)

SkillsUSA is a national workforce development organization and career and technical student organization that partners education with industry to ensure that young professionals develop the technical, leadership, and employability skills required for career success. Its competitions are designed and evaluated by industry professionals to reflect current workforce demands.

“Shaelene’s achievement is an outstanding example of what happens when preparation, passion, and opportunity come together,” said Nicole Santaniello, CV-TEC Lead SkillsUSA Advisor. “We are incredibly proud of all of our young professionals who represented CV-TEC and New York State with professionalism, skill, and integrity on the national stage.”

“Shaelene’s success, along with the accomplishments of our entire SkillsUSA team, demonstrates the strength of our programs and the dedication of our young professionals and CV-TEC Team Members,” said Michele Friedman, Executive Director of Career and Technical Education at CVES. “We are proud to celebrate this national achievement and the continued impact of career and technical education in preparing the future workforce.”

This national recognition highlights CV-TEC’s commitment to preparing young professionals through rigorous, hands-on learning experiences aligned to in-demand careers and industry standards.

For additional information, please contact:  Santaniello__nicole@cves.org

Click here for the vtdigger story 

L-R – Lincoln Sunderland and Town Supervisor Craig Randall

Peru, NY, June 9, 2026 – It’s been a memorable week for Lincoln Sunderland. On June 4, he celebrated his 86th birthday. At the Monday, June 8, Peru Town Board meeting, the Town Board recognized Sunderland for his work in preserving Peru history and former New York State Assemblywoman Janet Duprey recognized Sunderland for his role as president of the leadership group that founded Apple Valley Senior Housing. Janet told Sunderland, “We couldn’t have done it without you.”  The group met in 1977, got a loan in 1979 and opened the beautiful facility in 1980. 

Peru Town Historian Helen Nerska led the presentation. Nerska said, “Tonight it is our privilege and pleasure to recognize Lincoln Sunderland for his work in recording and sharing Peru history. We initiated this recognition when, in the historian’s office, we kept referring back to this book — which we began respectfully calling our Peru History bible. We also knew that these three books were produced by Lincoln Sunderland and donated to our town for sharing. Currently, proceeds from the book sales go to the Babbie Farm.”

“Other than a book written in 1913 by the Peru Grange, these are the only books that exist on Peru History. And I can’t stop there; we also found his work on the history of the Peru Community Church in our files – maybe a future publication?” 

“Lincoln was born and raised in Ellenburg as one of 12 children — and, like a number of us here, grew up on farmlands and woodlands that I now see were the most incredible playgrounds a child today could imagine. His autobiography would resonate with those of us lucky enough to have been raised on Clinton County farms. He was educated to be a science teacher, so his day job, so to speak, was teaching biology and earth science at Peru High School. He did this for 32 years.” Nerska added that Lincoln has been an active member of the Peru Lions Club since 1969 and said, “I believe he’s the oldest living member.” 

Sunderland’s wife, Ann, a longtime elementary school teacher at Peru Central, collaborated on many of her husband’s activities, including being an active member of the Peru Lions Club. Go to the Turkey Trot or the Lions roadside pickup, and you’ll often see Lincoln and Ann working side-by-side. The couple raised three daughters, Carolyn, Beverly and Jill. As Beverly commented, “What amazing role models!”

Funding Supports Updating Water Infrastructure, Combatting Harmful Algal Blooms, Protecting Drinking Water, Increasing Flood Resilience, and Treating Contamination from Landfills

Read more »

PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. , June 9, 2026 – Assemblyman Michael S. Cashman (D-Plattsburgh) announced funding for various educational programs throughout the 115^th district today, including $100,000 for the AuSable Valley Central School District. The announcement comes after the legislative concluded late last week.

“I am thrilled to share that I was able to secure $255,000 for six different organizations that support early and adult education throughout the North Country,” Cashman said. “From events that introduce the importance of literacy at an early age to on-the-job training for adult learners, each of these organizations puts on incredibly important programs, and I am proud to have continued to bring resources back to the North Country.”

“I am especially proud of the $100,000 I was able to designate to the AuSable Valley Central School District. The district has been strained with the realities that come with being a rural school district, and these monies will assist with various educational experiences within the district. I will continue to engage with school leadership from across the district to better understand their needs and goals in advance of next year’s budget.”

Mark Francia, the Superintendent of Schools for AuSable Valley Central School District, shared his excitement in a statement.

“We are extremely grateful to Assemblyman Cashman for securing $100,000 in Bullet Aid for AuSable Valley Central School District,” Francia said. “Earlier this fall, members of our Board of Education and I had the opportunity to meet with Assemblyman Cashman and discuss the financial challenges facing rural school districts. He took the time to listen, understand our concerns, and advocate on our behalf.

“This funding demonstrates Assemblyman Cashman’s commitment to the students, families, and communities of the North Country. While financial pressures continue to impact AuSable Valley and many other local school districts, this support shows that he understands the unique challenges rural schools face and is willing to fight for the resources our students need to be successful.”

“On behalf of our students, staff, Board of Education, and community, I want to thank Assemblyman Cashman for his advocacy and continued support of public education in the North Country.”

An additional $155,000 was designated to five other educational organizations and programs throughout the district. The funding breakdown is as follows:

• $100,000 to AuSable Valley Central School District for various educational programs.
• $50,000 to Clinton Community College for the Pathways for Women to Careers in Technology and Manufacturing program.
• $40,000 to the North Country Chamber of Commerce for on-the-job training activities.
• $25,000 to Lake Placid Association for Music, Drama and Art for the Art of the Olympians Program.
• $20,000 to John Brown Lives! for the annual Adirondack Family Book Festival.
• $20,000 to the 1814 Commemoration for the annual Battle of Plattsburgh events.

            The funds were allocated to the district during one of the final votes of the 2026 legislative session.

Area residents should anticipate increased traffic throughout the region

The 70th Annual Porsche Parade will bring more than 1,340 cars and 2,600 attendees to the area. The week-long gathering is the largest in Porch Club of America (PCA) history, featuring competitive events, rallies, local tours, membership meetings, member outings, seminars, kids’ activities, and banquets.

WHEN: June 12 – 20, 2026

WHERE: Village of Lake Placid, the Conference Center at Lake Placid, ORDA venues, and the surrounding area.

WHY: Traffic impacts should be anticipated – vehicles will be traveling throughout the Adirondacks. People are also encouraged to attend the public events, such as the parade on Saturday with more than 250 cars currently registered to take part.

NOTE: The event aligns with the Lake Placid Marathon on Sunday, June 14.

• Lake Placid Marathon impact:
  • LP Marathon Team is sharing information with athletes about the Porsche Parade.
  • Some Porsche event arrivals will take place on June 13
  • Suggestion for race packet pickup on Saturday June 13 (12 – 6 p.m.):
    • Athletes are encouraged to use Wesvalley parking lot; walk to Olympic oval.
  • The majority of vehicles will arrive on Sunday, June 14 – Lake Placid Marathon day.

TIMELINE / ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

• Friday, June 12 – Saturday, June 13: Early arrival begins; anticipate 500 vehicles / 1,000 people
• Sunday, June 14: Majority of arrivals; expect 800 vehicles / 1,600 people
  • This is Lake Placid Marathon day
  • Porsche Parade registration and initial meetings are relocating to Saranac Lake High School for the day to accommodate marathon logistics.
• Monday, June 15: Concours d’Elegance at the Olympic Oval from 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. This free event marks the only time that the public has access to the vendor village. The public is encouraged to view the automobiles and speak with Porsche owners vying for awards.
• Friday, June 19: Cars & Community event in Saranac Lake 5 – 9 p.m. The public event features unique cars from across the region – many Porsche owners will be displaying their vehicles.
• Saturday, June 20 10:00 a.m.: Parade of Porsches. Spectators are encouraged to watch the Porsche Parade. Participants will depart from the Lake Placid Olympic Jumping Complex, turning left onto Route 73. They will turn right on Route 86 toward Wilmington, then right onto River Road, returning to the ski jumps. Roads will remain open. The parade will have a police escort. Traffic may be asked to wait at intersections to allow the procession to pass.

Traffic impact:

• There are a number of tours and destination drives planned throughout the area, including visits to Ticonderoga, Tupper Lake, North Creek, Ausable Chasm, Blue Mountain Lake, North Hudson, Lake George, Plattsburgh, and more.
• Drivers and homeowners may notice an increase in Porsche traffic.

Click here for the NCPR story 

1. 
   2. Call Meeting to Order
   4. Pledge of Allegiance
   3. Roll Call 
   4. MOTION/DISCUSSION: To Accept Reports from all Departments: Meeting of May 11, 2026
   5. MOTION/DISCUSSION: To Accept Reports from all Departments: (Water/Sewer/Valcour; Highway; Town Clerk; Dog Control; Youth Department; Code/Zoning; Supervisor’s Report; Court; Website; and Banking Reports, JCEO);
   6. MOTION: Acceptance of Minutes for the Regular Meeting of May 28, 2026.
   7. Community Input. 

   7a.       DISCUSSION: Special Recognition Presentation to Lincoln Sunderland.

   8. DISCUSSION: Engineering Ventures Discussion on Wescott Rd. Culvert/Bridge.
   9. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Accept Proposal for Food Waste Recycling Program Vendor.
   10. DISCUSSION: Damage to Walking Trail and Town Owned Property.
   11. DISCUSSION/MOTION: Approval of Murnane Building Contractors Pay App. #11 for Peru WWTP Project. 
   12. DISCUSSION/MOTION: Approval of John W. Danforth Company Pay App. #11 for Peru WWTP Project. 
   13. DISCUSSION/MOTION: Approval of K & L Plumbing & Heating Pay App. #6 for Peru WWTP Project.
   14. DISCUSSION/MOTION: Approval of Triangle Electrical Systems Pay App. #9 for Peru WWTP Project.
   15. DISCUSSION: AES Northeast Monthly Report on Peru Wastewater Project.
   16. DISCUSSION: Barton & Loguidice Monthly Report on Water Project.
   17. DISCUSSION: Other Business. – Town Board.
   18. DISCUSSION: Other Business. – Dept. Heads.
   19. DISCUSSION: Public Comments on Agenda Items Only.
   20. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Pay May 2026 Bills.
   21. MOTION: Adjourn to Executive Session.
   22. MOTION: Return from Executive Session.           
   23. 28. MOTION: Adjourn Meeting.

LCRI replaces old research boat with new 36-foot, high-tech vessel

ALBANY, NY, June 6, 2026  – Assemblyman Michael S. Cashman (D-Plattsburgh) shared some of his legislative wins upon the conclusion of the 2026 legislative session. The Assemblyman was the sponsor of 7 passed pieces of legislation, one budget provision, and co-sponsored an additional 21 pieces of legislation that also passed.

“I am proud to announce that seven of my bills have passed through the legislature, as well as many bills I co-sponsored,” Cashman said. “From supporting our veterans, small business owners, corrections officers, deputy sheriffs and first responders, to working on everyday affordability and recreational access, these bills cover a wide range of issues. I proudly work across the aisle, with each of my bills that were passed garnering bipartisan support.”

“One of the primary roles of state legislators is to bring home resources to the district. Voters entrust legislators to be their voice down in Albany, and my advocacy throughout the legislative process – from introduction, through committee, and to a final floor vote – has proven successful on each of these bills. These bills now await the Governor’s signature if passed in the Senate side as well.”

“There is always more work to be done, and my team and I have already begun preparing for next year’s session. On day one, we will be refiling many of our current bills, prioritizing our timeout box legislation, pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome and pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections legislation, and Camp Gabriels legislation. While it is frustrating that many bills must sit in limbo, I will remain dogged in pushing for these measures and many others to move further during the next session. I will continue to fight for North Country residents and look forward to being back in district for the off-session months.”

The legislative session was initially scheduled to run until June 4, but was extended into Friday to allow legislators to pass more bills. The state budget being passed over one month late was a contributing factor in this session extension. Assemblyman Cashman previously announced his budgetary wins, including $12.5 million for Tupper Lake’s water systems and funding for various local organizations and programming. Cashman will be doing a district tour following the conclusion of session highlighting a few of these budgetary wins and to continue seeking projects requiring support.

“This year, the ability of the legislature to pass legislation was heavily bogged down by the severely delayed state budget. It was incredibly frustrating to go through the budget process in negotiations that should not have been part of the budgetary discussions, but government is sometimes requires compromise. I am proud of the budget measures I have secured for the district as a freshman legislator, and I welcome discussions about measures the district needs to seek future funding measures.

Below is a list of a few of the highlighted pieces of legislation that Assemblyman Cashman sponsored and co-sponsored that passed during the legislative session.

• Legislation which requires the public service commission to review the economic impact of utility rate changes before implementing wide-scale rate increases.

• Legislation that allows veterans to fish for free within state parks, providing further recreational opportunities to those who have served our country.

• Legislation that allows the benefits of surviving spouses of firefighters killed in the line of duty to be disbursed.

•  Legislation that creates a real property tax exemption for surviving spouses of correction officers who die in the line of duty; and legislation that was included in the state budget, ensuring the benefits of correction officers to be dispersed to beneficiaries if they are to die in the line of duty.

• Legislation that establishes a one-year moratorium on the construction of data centers in the State of New York.

• Legislation allowing out-of-state healthcare professionals to perform services at Lake Placid Iron Man events in 2026.

L-R CVPH ED Nurse Manager Michael Wells, RN, CVPH ED Medical Director Nicholas Aunchman, MD and CVPH ED Advanced Practice Provider Manager Maurice Pauquette, PA.

CVPH ED team honors legacy of compassion, care 

Plattsburgh, NY, June 3, 2026 – Family, friends and colleagues of Nicole Killian, NP, gathered recently at the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) Emergency Department to dedicate its General Treatment Area in her honor and to celebrate the lasting influence she continues to have on patient care and the spirit of teamwork she so deeply valued.

Known for her quiet strength, empathy and ability to connect with people, Killian, of Richmond, Vt., held a doctorate in nursing and had an extensive health care background. In addition to practicing as a nurse practitioner at CVPH, she also volunteered as an Advanced EMT for the Richmond Rescue Squad, and worked clinically at New York Presbyterian Hospital and for Solis Health, both in Manhattan. In 2023, at the age of 28, Nicole died tragically while hiking in British Columbia.

In his welcoming remarks, CVPH Emergency Department Medical Director Nicholas Aunchman, MD called Killian “a steady presence in moments of uncertainty, a compassionate voice in times of fear and a trusted colleague who elevated everyone around her.”

“It is fitting that this space — this general treatment area — will carry her name,” he said. “This is a place where care begins, where decisions are made, where comfort is offered, and where lives are impacted. It reflects the very heart of what Nicole stood for: compassionate, skilled, patient-centered care.”

CVPH ED Nurse Manager Michael Wells, RN echoed Aunchman’s sentiments and added, “The dedication ties her legacy to something much larger:  the collective purpose of this Emergency Department team. It ensures that what she represented – steady care, professionalism, and compassion – remains connected to our daily work.”

Wells added, “Emergency medicine requires skill, sharp judgment, adaptability, and a kind of compassion that doesn’t pause when things get busy or difficult. It also requires teamwork. No one succeeds here alone. Every outcome, every moment of reassurance, every difficult decision is the result of people working together with a shared purpose. And this Emergency Department team does exactly that, every single day.”

Calling Killian patient, dedicated and committing to always putting her patients first, CVPH Emergency Department Advanced Practice Provider Manager Maurice Pauquette, PA noted, “In a year where we are celebrating our centennial – 100 years of caring for patients across the North Country – we are dedicating a clinical space to someone who represents the very best of what and who we strive to be.”

Aunchman recalled how Nicole embodied the quiet strength and resilience that defines emergency medicine. “She showed up, day after day, ready to serve others — not for recognition, but because it was who she was. Her dedication to patient care and her commitment to her team left a lasting imprint that we continue to feel.”

Her participation on the team, according to Wells, reflected the strength and commitment that continues to define the group. “This team shows up under pressure, supporting one another through long shifts, difficult cases, and moments that extend well beyond the end of a shift. Much of their work is unseen and often goes unrecognized, yet it has a profound impact on patients, their families, and the hospital,” he said.

The General Treatment Area is located within the department and includes 10 patient rooms. Just beyond its entrance, the ED team has placed a sign dedicating the space to Killian, along with a photo collage featuring the nurse practitioner with coworkers, family and friends and sunflower artwork, a personal favorite of their colleague. The memorial was funded by The Foundation of CVPH. A paver remembering Killian is part of the Foundation’s Circle of Healing and Hope, surrounding the Angel of Hope on the hospital’s main lawn.

Chicken’n Biscuits

Vegetable 

Fruit Snack 

Dessert 

Served 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., take-out only, at St. Augustine’s Parish Center, 3030 Main St., Peru, NY 12972. 

All are invited and welcome!

SUNY Canton 

Emma Baker named to SUNY Canton President’s List.

Isaac Lane named to SUNY Canton President’s List.

Dusty LeClair  named to SUNY Canton President’s List.

SUNY Potsdam 

Ethan Luoma set to graduate summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education

Madison Tromblee set to graduate with a Master of Science in Education degree in Literacy

Sarrah Zagrodzki set to graduate with distinction with a Master of Science in Education degree in Literacy

University of Nebraska-Lincoln 

Kathryn Ku’uleilani Bowman earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry with high distinction from the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.

Click here for the NCPR story 

Plattsburgh, NY (June 3, 2026) — The North Country Chamber of Commerce has been named one of just 12 recipients nationwide of an Award of Excellence in Communications by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) for its innovative “We Know Canadians…” campaign.

Based in Alexandria, Virginia, ACCE represents more than 1,600 chambers of commerce and economic development organizations and over 9,000 professionals across North America. The organization’s annual Awards for Communications Excellence program recognizes the most effective and creative communications and marketing initiatives undertaken by chambers of commerce.

“Strong communications are central to how chambers lead, serve and demonstrate impact,” said ACCE President & CEO Sheree Anne Kelly. “This year’s Awards for Communications Excellence winners show what is possible when strategy, creativity and execution come together to engage members, elevate community priorities and tell the chamber story with clarity and purpose.”

The North Country Chamber was recognized in the Campaigns Category for its “We Know Canadians…” initiative, a cross-border effort designed to reinforce the longstanding relationship between Northern New York and Canada through fact-based storytelling and shared history.

Launched during a period of heightened political tension, the campaign highlighted documented examples of collaboration, friendship, and mutual support between Canadians and Americans. Through bilingual video content, social media assets, and coordinated partner outreach, the campaign focused on strengthening people-to-people connections while emphasizing the importance of the cross-border relationship that has long defined the region.

The effort brought together an extensive coalition of partners, including the Consul General of Canada in New York, Québec’s Delegate General in New York, tourism organizations, elected officials, businesses, and community leaders on both sides of the border. The campaign generated more than 100,000 video views, substantial local and international media coverage, and widespread partner amplification that significantly expanded its reach and impact.

The campaign was developed largely in-house by the North Country Chamber’s leadership and marketing team, leading the conceptualization, scripting, design, and execution.

Judges praised the initiative, stating: “This was a really creative and well-executed campaign, produced in French and in English. It was sensitive, subtle and an example of successful collaboration across many agencies. It was a powerful one.”

“This has been a special endeavor to us, expressing timely and heartfelt messaging,” said Garry Douglas, President of the North Country Chamber of Commerce. “It is important and overdue that our Canadian friends hear our respect and appreciation for how they are there for us, and that Americans remember, learn and appreciate the depth of this special relationship.”

A panel of communications and marketing professionals from 16 U.S.-based chambers of commerce evaluated entries submitted from across the country. Projects were judged within annual revenue categories and across communications disciplines including digital media, campaigns, publications, and websites.

As an Award of Excellence recipient, the North Country Chamber will now advance to compete for ACCE’s highest honor, Best in Show, with winners to be announced during ACCE’s Annual Convention in New Orleans on July 21.

Albany, June 1, 2026 – New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, Albany County District Attorney Lee C. Kindlon, New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James, and Acting Medicaid Inspector General Frank T. Walsh, Jr. today announced the arrests of four defendants for allegedly using three Medicaid transportation companies to systematically defraud the program out of more than $1.6 million. Those arrested were Jawad Choudhary, 44, his brother Junaid Choudhary, 43, both of Clifton Park, Danya Matthew, 56, of Springfield Gardens, and Kenneth Smith, 34, of New York City.

“The defendants allegedly tried to scam New York’s Medicaid system out of over $1.6 million by billing for non-existent services, inflating charges, and paying kickbacks,” DiNapoli said. Read more »

Click here for the WTVB Story 

Guidelines for $81 Million First Round of FY27 Council on the Arts Grants Now Available Here

Albany, June 6, 2026 – Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $161 million in grant funding for New York State artists and nonprofit arts and culture organizations in FY2027, with applications now available for the first round of funding, totaling $81 million. The second round of applications for Capital Project funding, totaling $80 million, will open in fall 2026. These opportunities reflect New York State’s unwavering commitment to its unparalleled arts and culture sector and are administered by the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA).

“Arts and culture are key components of New York’s global influence,” Governor Hochul said. “From driving tourism to building robust neighborhoods to engaging young learners, the impact of our unparalleled cultural sector is felt statewide. These funding opportunities will ensure that our artists and cultural organizations will continue to strengthen their communities and inspire the world.”

Included in these grant opportunities is critical general operating support for organizations, which provides funding for day-to-day activities for thousands of organizations statewide, as well as support for artists, affordable rehearsal space, folk arts apprenticeships, and performing arts residencies. Grant application guidelines are available at arts.ny.gov/OpportunityGuidelines.

Prerecorded opportunity webinars will be available to view on the NYSCA website on Friday, June 5, 2026. Virtual office hours will be held throughout June. Registration for the webinars as well as an updated schedule will be available here.

Guidelines for the following opportunities are available to download on the NYSCA website:

Support for Organizations: Provides flexible operating and programmatic funding for qualified nonprofit arts and culture organizations. Awards range from $10,000 to $49,500.

Support for Artists: Funds creative commissions to individual artists across the state. The commission areas include Choreography, Composer, Film, Media, and New Technology, Folk and Traditional Arts, Interdisciplinary, Literature, Theater Commissions, and Visual Arts. The award amount is $10,000.

Support for Targeted Opportunities:

• Rehearsal and Studio Space for the Performing Arts: This funding is intended to support creative rehearsal time and organizations that provide viable and affordable space for non-profit arts groups and artists.  Awards range from $15,000 to $35,000.
• Folk and Traditional Arts Apprenticeships: This funding provides individuals experienced in folk art with opportunities to study with master folk artists from their own community. The award amount is $10,000.
• Performing Arts Residencies: This opportunity supports a minimum three-consecutive-week residency by New York-based performing arts groups in a targeted area in New York State outside of the applicant’s home county and outside New York City. Awards range from $15,000 to $35,000.

Read more »

TUPPER LAKE, NY (June 4, 2026) – The highly anticipated Tupper Lake Tinman Triathlon returns on Saturday, June 27, kicking off at 8 a.m. and continuing its legacy as one of the longest-running triathlons in North America.

Recently rated one of the Best Ironman 70.3 & Half-Distance Races in the U.S. for 2026 by Triathlon Magazine, the event draws athletes from across the United States—including Colorado, Arizona, Illinois, Ohio, Oregon, Washington, Kentucky, North Carolina, Texas, and Florida—as well as international participants from Canada and Colombia.

Now in its 44th year, the Tinman will welcome more than 400 athletes from across the Western Hemisphere in five events:

• Tinman (1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike, 13.1-mile run)
• Aquabike (1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike)
• Team Relay (1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike, 13.1-mile run)
• Olympic (0.93-mile swim, 26-mile bike, 6.2-mile run)
• Sprint (0.5-mile swim, 12.6-mile bike, 3.1-mile run)

Race Director Wendy Peroza, a 25-year volunteer and race director for the past 10 years, credits the event’s continued success to the passion and dedication of the local organizing committee. “This race is entirely community-driven and plays a vital role in Tupper Lake’s summer season,” she said.

Many participants and their families extend their stay to explore the region and experience some of Tupper Lake’s newest attractions. This year is especially exciting as visitors can enjoy the first full summer season of the completed 34-mile Adirondack Rail Trail connecting Lake Placid and Tupper Lake, creating new opportunities for cycling, walking, and outdoor recreation throughout the region.

Visitors can also experience TROLLS: Save the Humans at The Wild Center, a new exhibition featuring six larger-than-life, folklore-inspired trolls that encourage people to reconnect with nature and become better stewards of the Earth. Beyond race weekend, guests enjoy the area’s hiking, paddling, local dining, and craft beverage scene, making Tupper Lake a destination for athletes and families alike.

Returning for the 2026 event is the Tinman Virtual Training Club, sponsored by Hotel Saranac. This free two-part training series features expert-led sessions on training and race-day preparations. Sessions are led by Sean Luitjens, who has completed more than 350 triathlons and ultras, ranging from local sprint races to World Championship events. Recordings are available at TupperLakeTinman.com/tinman-virtual-training.

Packet Pick-Up & Registration
Packet pick-up and registration will take place in the Tupper Lake Library Community Room on Friday, June 26, from 1 – 8 p.m.

Volunteer Opportunities & Stipends
Volunteers are still needed for packet pick-up, course setup, and race-day support, including on-water paddle support. Nonprofit groups of eight or more are eligible for $200 stipends to support their organizations. Sign up at TupperLakeTinman.com/volunteers or email tinman@tupperlake.com.

Visit TupperLakeTinman.com or follow @TupperLakeTinman on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.

June 6, 2026 – 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.

Town of Keene
Essex County
Wilderness Rescue: On May 26 at 9:22 p.m., two hikers called Ray Brook Dispatch to report they were lost on Giant Mountain. The 19- and 21-year-olds were out of food and water, didn’t have extra layers of clothing or headlamps, and their cell phone batteries were running low. Forest Ranger Rooney spoke to the hikers on the phone and directed them to a lean-to the pair remembered seeing. Ranger Rooney instructed them to do whatever they could to stay warm until Rangers arrived. Just after 12 a.m., Rangers Ezumah and Rooney reached the subjects, provided warming layers and food, and hiked them back to their Ranger trucks. Rangers provided a courtesy ride to the subjects’ vehicle at Roaring Brook Falls. Resources were clear at 3 a.m.

Rangers suggest packing enough food and water to last through the night just in case the unexpected happens. Extra layers and headlamps are among the 10 Hiking Essentials all hikers should bring with them.

Town of Moreau
Saratoga County
Wilderness Search: On May 27 at 5:50 p.m., New York State Police (NYSP) requested Forest Ranger assistance in the search for a missing hiker in Moreau Lake State Park. The 88-year-old began hiking at the Western Ridge trailhead at 9:30 a.m. The subject is an avid hiker, but their caretaker called NYSP when the hiker did not return home by evening. Five Rangers, New York State Parks staff, and NYSP K9s and drones participated in the search. At 12:15 a.m., Ranger Morehouse located the subject in good condition just off the East Ridge trail. Rangers assisted the hiker out of the woods. Resources were clear at 2:45 a.m.

Town of Johnsburg
Warren County
Wilderness Rescue: On May 28 at 4:47 p.m., Warren County 911 requested Forest Ranger assistance with a canoer stranded on shore after their canoe sank on Thirteenth Lake. Ranger Savarie reached the 63-year-old from Delmar and helped repair the canoe before assisting them to their vehicle.

Ranger Savarie patches hole in canoe

Town of Watson
Lewis County
Wilderness Recovery: On May 29 at 11:15 a.m., Rangers Evans and Lee responded to a report of a deceased subject off Adsit Road in the Croghan Tract Conservation Easement. The 74-year-old from Lowville was last seen the previous evening when they headed to their camp near the easement. The subject’s family was concerned and drove to the camp. They followed ATV tracks leading to the easement and found the subject deceased. Rangers worked with the Croghan Fire Department, Lewis County Search and Rescue, New York State Police, and DEC’s Bureau of Environmental Crimes Investigation to transport the subject on a Ranger UTV to the Lewis County Medical Examiner.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation offers condolences to the family. Read more »