The Peru Gazette

Occupational Therapist Billie Pearl honored for extraordinary patient care

October 26, 2026 – CVPH News Release, Plattsburgh, NY – When people come to the hospital, they’re often facing more than a medical challenge. They may be carrying fear, uncertainty or circumstances that make an already difficult situation even harder.

For one patient at University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital, those circumstances included arriving without any personal belongings. In addition to focusing on the patient’s clinical needs, Billie Pearl, an occupational therapist at the hospital, saw a person who deserved comfort, dignity and a sense of normalcy during a difficult time.

After learning the patient was unhoused and had been admitted without their belongings, Pearl took action. On her own time, she worked to locate the patient’s personal items and brought them to the hospital. The gesture wasn’t part of a treatment plan, but it made all the difference for the patient.

According to Kalie Leduc, a physical therapist who works with Pearl, the moment reflects the compassion Pearl brings to her work every day. “Billie truly embodies ‘patients first,’” Leduc says. “She goes above and beyond for all her patients, consistently treating each person with compassion, dignity and respect.”

Leduc adds Pearl is known for taking extra time with patients to ensure they feel heard, valued and supported throughout their care. “Acts like this are not part of her job description,” Leduc says. “They reflect the kind of person she is.”

Occupational therapists help patients regain the skills needed for daily life after illness, injury or hospitalization. Colleagues say Pearl combines that clinical expertise with a genuine commitment to the people she serves, seeing each patient as more than a diagnosis or medical condition.

“Her dedication, kindness and genuine commitment to providing exceptional care make her an outstanding role model for our team,” Leduc says.

That commitment is why Leduc nominated Pearl for the hospital’s latest BEE Award. Pearl was presented with the honor during a surprise ceremony with her colleagues. During the award presentation, she received a certificate commending her for her extraordinary work. Pearl, like all honorees, also received a BEE Award pin, a beautiful and meaningful sculpture and a basket filled with bee-themed gifts.

The BEE Award – which stands for Beyond Extraordinary Everyday – recognizes Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital employees in non-nursing roles who support patient care and make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients, families and coworkers. Nomination forms and boxes are located at each of the hospital’s main entrances and on the UVM Health Network website. Support staff may be nominated by patients, families and colleagues. A committee reviews nominations and awards a deserving employee each quarter.

More appointments, shorter waits at AHMC and CVPH

10/26/26 – CVPH News Release – Malone/Plattsburgh, NY – Patients across the North Country are gaining faster access to X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan and mammography services, thanks to expanded imaging capacity at Alice Hyde Medical Center (AHMC) and Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH), both part of the University of Vermont Health Network (UVMHN)

While AHMC and CVPH maintain their own imaging departments and appointment schedules, both hospitals share the health network’s commitment to providing timely, high-quality care close to home.

Combining state-of-the-art imaging technology with exceptional patient care, AHMC and CVPH offer a wide range of diagnostic services including x-ray, CT, MRI, and mammography – many with same day appointments.

“When people need diagnostic imaging, they want quality care without unnecessary delays or long drives. “We are committed to helping patients get the testing they need sooner and closer to home so they can spend less time traveling and more time focused on their health,” said AHMC Director of Radiology Services Kaela Bonesteel.

“Our radiology team has looked for ways to expand hours of operation and streamline their processes to accommodate patient needs. Their efforts and commitment to the people we care for shows in everything they do,” said Jay Gonyea, CVPH Director of Radiology Services.

In Malone, diagnostic services are located at 133 Park St. CVPH offers imaging services in several Plattsburgh locations:

• 2^nd Floor, Main Campus, 75 Beekman St.
• Women’s Imaging Center, 89A Plaza Blvd
• CVPH Diagnostic Center (The Plaza), 89 Plaza Blvd.
• Valcour Imaging, 16 Degrandpre Way, Suite 400
• Open MRI, 23 Consumer Square

In Champlain, imaging services are available at the Champlain Diagnostic Center, 828 State Route 11.

With a physician referral, appointments can be easily scheduled on MyChart or by calling Scheduling at AHMC 518-483-3000, or CVPH Scheduling at 518-562-7340.

MyChart is UVMHN’s patient portal offering a safe, convenient way for you to:

• Make appointments – including mammograms, lab/blood draw appointments
• Communicate securely with your physicians
• Check on imaging test results
• Receive reminders about upcoming visits or recommended vaccinations
• Begin the check in process a week before the scheduled appointment or procedure
• Pay your bill

Learn more about MyChart and create an account with the University of Vermont Health Network at UVMHealth.org/MyChart.

Roman Catholic Community of St. Alexander and St. Joseph Parish, Clinton County — $125,000, JCEO — $118,396

October 26, 2026 – Governor Kathy Hochul today announced  $8.3 million in capital grants for 59 food banks and emergency food assistance organizations across New York State through the New York Providing Local Access to Essential Sustenance (NY PLATES) program. The grants will help organizations expand food storage, improve distribution and upgrade facilities that serve New Yorkers facing food insecurity.

“No New Yorker should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from,” Governor Hochul said. “As Washington cuts critical food assistance programs, New York is stepping up to help the organizations that families depend on every day. These investments will give food banks and pantries the equipment and infrastructure they need to reach more people, reduce food waste and ensure families across our state have access to fresh, nutritious food.”

North Country  – Total Amount Awarded $243,395

• Roman Catholic Community of St. Alexander and St. Joseph Parish, Clinton County — $125,000: Facility improvements to support food pantry services at St. Joseph’s Community Outreach Center in Plattsburgh.
• Joint Council for Economic Opportunity of Clinton and Franklin Counties, Clinton County — $118,396: Improvements to its Plattsburgh food pantry and distribution facility to strengthen food storage and community services.

6 PM 

1. Call Meeting to Order

2. Pledge of Allegiance

3. Roll Call 

4. Community Input.

5. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Approve Work Change Directive GC-CD.19 from Murnane Bldg. Contractors, Inc. for the Peru WWTP Project.

6. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Approve Work Change Directive GC-CD.20 from Murnane.

7. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Approve Work Change Directive GC-CD.21 from Murnane.

8. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Approve Work Change Directive GC-CD.22 from Murnane.

9. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Approve Contract with Suozzo, Doty & Associates for SECURE Project. 

10. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Accept Resignation for Planning Board Member.

11. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Accept Recommendation to Reappoint Planning Board Chairman.

12. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Accept Recommendation to Reappoint Planning Board Member.

13. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Accept Resignation or F/T Clerk To Town Justice.

14. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Accept Resignation for P/T Clerk To Town Justice. 

15. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Hiring of P/T Temporary Interim Clerk To Town Justice.

16. DISCUSSION: C & S Companies Monthly Report on Telegraph Rd. Culvert 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 October 2026 Bills.

21. MOTION: Adjourn to Executive Session.

23. MOTION: Return from Executive Session.    
24. MOTION: Adjourn Meeting.  Agenda and Resolutions 10:26:26

Click here for the Vermont Public story 

Baked Haddock 

Rice

Vegetable

Bread

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!

CLINTON COUNTY, NY – Clinton County celebrated its past and looked toward its future on October 23 at the John H. Zurlo County Government Center, opening time capsule boxes preserved for five decades and sealing a new capsule to be opened on October 23, 2076.

Held during America’s 250th anniversary year, the ceremony brought together former and current County officials, employees, families, and students to reflect on the community’s history and preserve a record of life in 2026.

“Today is about more than opening a time capsule. It is about remembering where we came from, recognizing the people who served our community, and preserving a piece of our lives today for the generations who will follow us,” said Clinton County Legislature Chairman Mark Henry.

Preparations brought an unexpected discovery: what organizers initially believed was one time capsule box turned out to be ten. Former legislators Janet Duprey and Robert Garrow, who served in 1976 and helped place the original capsule, returned to help open boxes during the celebration.

“When we placed these items in the time capsule, we were preserving a little piece of Clinton County for people we might never meet,” said Duprey. “To be here today, sharing this moment with former colleagues, current County leaders, and young people who will carry our community forward, is truly special.”

“This brings back memories of the people we served with and the work we did together for Clinton County,” said Garrow. “It is wonderful to see that history remembered and to know that another generation will have the same opportunity when the new capsule is opened in 2076.”

The ceremony recognized former legislators and staff, honored their contributions, and remembered those who have passed away.

Beekmantown Middle School teacher Amy Criss and sixth-grade student leaders representing the Class of 2033 joined the celebration. The students contributed letters describing their lives, sharing their perspectives, and predicting what the world might look like in 2076. Their participation connected the County’s history with a generation that may return to open the new capsule in 50 years.

Representatives of the County’s past, present, and future joined together to seal the new capsule, which contains materials documenting County government, community life, and the priorities shaping Clinton County today.

Chairman Henry thanked County Historian Anastasia Pratt for helping safeguard the historical materials and preserve their stories for future generations. He also recognized the County Clerk, County staff, local schools, and others who contributed to the celebration and new capsule.

The original boxes and their contents will be displayed at the Government Center over the coming months, allowing residents to explore this snapshot of Clinton County’s past. Following the display, the materials will be transferred to the County Historian for safekeeping and preservation.

The newly sealed capsule will remain in the County Clerk’s secure custody until a new stone faceplate is completed. It will then be secured at its designated location until October 23, 2076, when America celebrates its 300th anniversary.

“We are preserving not only objects, but memories, community pride and a connection between generations,” Henry said.

Peru, NY, October 24, 2026 – Our community welcomes thousands of Canadian visitors, especially at this time of year. They love our local food. Hundreds of Canada Geese stopped by an Adirondack Farms’ cornfield this morning.

Click here for the Sun Community News story 

October 23, 2026 – PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. – This morning, Assemblymember Michael S. Cashman (D-Plattsburgh) held a press conference amplifying concerns his office has received regarding allegations of poor quality of care in the Clinton Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. Community member Nora King, whose mother was housed in this facility, shared her mother’s story during the press conference.

“My team has taken numerous calls from constituents whose loved ones are housed within this facility,” Cashman said. “After attending a residents council meeting and speaking directly with some current residents back in July, I reached out directly to the leadership of this facility, and have still yet to hear back with any response to their residents’ valid concerns.”

“Currently, New York state is unable to regulate privately-owned for-profit practices, which make up roughly 70% of nursing homes in New York State. As I continue to work toward long-term solutions, including establishing direct, clear oversight of these facilities, there are still avenues for families to report concerns in the meantime.”

“I have been in direct contact with the Department of Health, Attorney General’s office, and the Comptroller’s office. I encourage anyone with reports of negligence or concerns to reach out directly to both the Department of Health and my district office to further amplify their stories. Families deserve the confidence that their loved ones are receiving quality and dignified care, and I will continue to fight to make sure these families receive just that.”

Detailed information regarding concerning behaviors or quality of care can be reported to the Department of Health at their 24-hour hotline 1-888-201-4563 or via email to nhintake@health.ny.gov. Assemblyman Cashman’s district office can be reached at 518-562-1986 or via email at cashmanm@nyassembly.gov.

Click here for the Yahoo!News story 

Click here for the Adirondack Explorer story 

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.

During the first nine months of 2026, Forest Rangers conducted 277 search and rescue missions, extinguished 93 wildfires covering more than 224 acres, and participated in 54 prescribed fires that served to rejuvenate 1,355 acres of land. In 2025, DEC Forest Rangers conducted 362 search and rescue missions, extinguished 202 wildfires covering 840 acres, participated in 68 prescribed fires that served to rejuvenate 1,649 acres of land, and worked on cases that resulted in more than 1,100 tickets and arrests. Also in 2025, 41 Forest Rangers were deployed to fire assignments in 10 different states.

Town of Harrieststown
Franklin County
Wilderness Rescue: On October 7 at 11:32 a.m., Ray Brook Dispatch received a call from a hiker on Ampersand Mountain assisting another hiker suffering from extreme abdominal pain. Forest Ranger Bowler and Saranac Lake Rescue Squad made contact with the 27-year-old from Nebraska approximately one mile from the trailhead. They treated the patient until Rangers Adams, Jeffery, and Lewis arrived with ATVs to transport the subject to the trailhead to an awaiting ambulance. The incident was clear at 1:48 p.m.

Ampersand rescue

Hamlet of Keene Valley
Essex County
Training: On October 8, five Forest Ranger instructors worked with 22 Rangers on technical rope rescue training. Rangers scaled the Beer Walls in the Chapel Pond area. Read more »

75 Actions across 17 agencies involving access to child care and other services, small businesses, state operations

October 21, 2026, Governor Hochul News Release – Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the second wave of state regulatory reform actions through her EXPRESS NY initiative to make government work better for New Yorkers. The 75 regulatory reform actions across 17 state agencies build on the first wave of 50 reforms announced in June. To date, EXPRESS NY has advanced more than 120 actions spanning more than 20 state agencies and authorities. The reforms will save New Yorkers tens of millions of dollars and an estimated 5 million hours in time previously wasted filling out unnecessary paperwork, waiting in line, navigating confusing instructions and websites. More than 2.5 million New Yorkers are expected to benefit from these actions.

The 75 regulatory reform actions are focused across four primary areas: Read more »

Governor Hochul News Release, October 21, 2026 – Governor Kathy Hochul today signed commonsense gun safety legislation to expand firearm safe storage requirements and prevent individuals prohibited from possessing guns from purchasing ammunition. Governor Hochul signed these bills at the New Yorkers Against Gun Violence annual benefit dinner on the fifth anniversary of the death of 17-year-old Francesco, who died by suicide after accessing an unsecured shotgun, and for whom ‘Francesco’s Law’ is named after.

“Keeping New Yorkers safe is my number one priority, which is why as Governor, I set out to enact one of the nation’s most advanced gun safety agendas — funding gun violence prevention programs at record levels and passing landmark legislation to prevent firearm tragedies,” Governor Hochul said. “Today, I’m proud to make our nation-leading laws even stronger to keep guns and ammunition out of the wrong hands and make our children and communities safer.”

S.7236/A.7943 strengthens background checks for purchasing ammunition by aligning them with the requirements for purchasing a firearm. This law clarifies that individuals prohibited by law from owning a rifle or shotgun or subject to a temporary or extreme risk protection order may not purchase ammunition.

A.1962-B/S.9629, known as ‘Francesco’s Law,’ requires gun owners to securely store firearms in an appropriate, locked storage container when they are not being used and creates stronger penalties for when minors and unlicensed individuals access unsecured guns. This legislation closes a gap in state law that allowed gun owners to leave firearms unsecured in homes without children or prohibited individuals.

Following the death of her son in 2021, Diana Cochran helped establish Francesco’s Foundation and became a leading advocate for stronger gun safety laws to prevent other families from experiencing similar tragedies.

Click here for the Vermont Public story 

Click here for the Yahoo News story 

Click here to view the Peru Gazette video on YouTube. 

Click here for the Syracuse.com story