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The editor is John Ryan at email: perugazette@gmail.com. The Peru Gazette is a free community, education and information website. It is non-commercial and does not accept paid advertising.

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The Peru Gazette welcomes comments on posted stories. The author MUST include his/her first and last name. No  foul or libelous language permitted. The Peru Gazette reserves the right to not publish a comment.

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Literacy Volunteers of Clinton, Essex, and Franklin Counties Receives $10,000 Grant

Plattsburgh, NY – The Dollar General Literacy Foundation (DGLF) recently awarded Literacy Volunteers of Clinton, Essex, and Franklin Counties a $10,000 grant to support adult literacy. This local grant is a part of the Foundation’s more than $10.6 million donation to support adult, family, and summer literacy programs in the 48 states where Dollar General operates. With today’s grants, the DGLF also has helped more than 20 million individuals achieve their educational dreams since its inception in 1993. Click here to learn more about the DG Literacy Foundation. 

“We are thrilled to announce that the Dollar General Literacy Foundation has awarded our organization a significant grant to support our adult literacy and education programs. This generous funding will enable us to expand our reach, enhance our resources, and provide comprehensive support to adult learners,” said Karen Dispo-De Boos, Executive Director of Literacy Volunteers of Clinton, Essex, and Franklin Counties. “We are grateful for this opportunity to continue positively impacting the lives of our participants and the community.”

“We believe individuals of all ages deserve access to a quality education, and the Dollar General Literacy Foundation is thrilled to support thousands of learners across the country as they enrich their lives with literacy and education,” shared Denine Torr, Executive Director of the Dollar General Literacy Foundation. “This year’s spring grant cycle is equally exciting as we surpass impacting more than 20 million individuals. We hope these funds provide resources needed to positively change students’ lives, helping them build a brighter future for themselves and future generations.”

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation supports organizations that increase access to educational programming, stimulate and enable innovation in the delivery of educational instruction, and inspire a love of reading. Each year, DGLF awards funds to nonprofit organizations, schools, and libraries within a 15-mile radius of a Dollar General store or distribution center to support adult, family, summer, and youth literacy programs. The Foundation also offers a student referral program for individuals interested in learning how to read, speak English, or prepare for the high school equivalency exam. Referrals to a local organization that provides free literacy services are available online here or through referral cards found in the Learn to Read brochures that are available at the cash register of every Dollar General store.

Celebrating Juneteenth A Celebration of Black Culture and Liberation

(PLATTSBURGH, NY—Strand Center for the Arts is scheduled to celebrate Juneteenth early on Friday, June 14, from 5 to 8 p.m. The Strand Center will honor Black culture and liberation on the center’s front lawn with live performances, food, art displays, activities, and more. This event is free and open to the public.

Live performances include comedy with Ray Robinson and friends, music by Ras Juba and poetry by Mercedez. Elizabeth Marquise, Wendell Robinson, and Dee Wolfe are among the featured artists who will display and sell their works.

Participating local businesses and organizations include Island Vybz, Flawless Taci, Jerard Greene and John Brown Lives!

The event will also have activities such as an interactive trivia wheel, guessing games and more.

Juneteenth is a holiday rich in Black history, culture, and solidarity. These things are integral to the day and to the Strand Center’s celebration of it.

“I’m looking forward to seeing unity,” said Miss Pat, a participating vendor at the event.  m“I’m looking forward to seeing friends getting together and people showing up with their families to celebrate our culture together.”

Showcasing and celebrating Black culture and liberation is important in remembering the past, celebrating the present and inspiring hope for the future. As participating artist Elizabeth Marquise succinctly put it, this event is a chance for “unity among all of us for our future generations.”

NCPR is hiring a reporter

Click here for more information 

USA Dance session at the Peru VFW tonight, June 3

Dear Dancing Friends,
You are invited to join USA Dance Plattsburgh’s dance session tonight, Monday, June 3 (and every Monday eve) from 6-8pm at the Peru VFW Post 309, 710 NY-22B, Peru, near the Schuyler Falls town line. These weekly “practice” sessions are free and everyone is welcome. Our repertoire of dance music includes Ballroom dances-Waltz, Tango, and Foxtrot; Latin dances-Rumba, Cha Cha, and Salsa; and Swing dances-East Coast and West Coast Swing. No partner or experience is required.
THIS SATURDAY is our Second Saturday Dance, with lessons on June 8 at North Country Squares Dance Club on the Fairgrounds. An Intermediate Cha Cha lesson will start at 6:15 pm and a beginner Cha Cha lesson will start at 7 pm, followed by general dancing from 8-9:15 pm. Our instructors will be Vermont-based, David Larson and Rebecca Brookes! The cost is $15/person and $10 for USA Dance members and students. All are welcome!
The Green Mountain Chapter continues to host Sunday classes for new dancers! Cha Cha will be taught on June 9 and June 16 from 4:30-5:30p with an hour of open practice from 5:30-6:30p at Lines Vermont, 10 Farrell Street, #6, South Burlington. Each session is $12/person. No experience or partner is needed, all are welcome
USA Dance Chapters’ simple mission is to promote social ballroom dancing in the local community. Regarding our informal Monday night sessions at the Peru VFW, they are low-key and have casual attire. Although there is no formal instruction at the weekly sessions, veteran dancers are happy to help with the basic steps or show you a new figure when you’re ready. A small donation (no more than $5) is appreciated – but optional to help cover the weekly rental fee. The Post bar will be open to purchase water, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages (no outside beverages are permitted).
For more information on USA Dance and Social Dancing or to become a member of Chapter #3068 (or renew), visit https://usadance.org/.
Other dance opportunities that may be of interest:
–Adirondack Contra is hosting a Contra Dance on Saturday, June 22, at the North Country Squares Dance Club on the Fairgrounds. No experience or partner is needed – all are welcome! The dance will feature caller Jeremy Clifford and live music with Adirondack 2-Step. Cost is $10/person and $5/students.
The Peru VFW Post 309 hosts a live band, Just Jammin’, every Thursday evening from 5 to 8 p.m., which attracts a dancing crowd—all are welcome to attend.
The English Country Dance group is hosting a dance on Friday, June 7, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the North Country Squares Dance Club, 84 Fairgrounds Road, Morrisonville. Callers review and teach the figures before the music plays. Admission is $5/person.
–Snowmotion Dance with instructor Sarah Snow offers numerous group lessons at StudiONE, 294 N. Winooski Ave. #112A, Burlington, VT. Latin Tuesdays feature a beginner’s Salsa class 7-8 pm and Intermediate Bachata 8-9 pm. The cost per class is $20. Visit the website at https://www.snowmotionstudios.com/
–Vermont Swings hosts Tuesday classes at the North Star Community Center, 20 Crowley Street, Burlington, VT, 6:30-7:30 pm. A social dance follows, starting at 7:30 pm. Costs: $15/$10 (Student w/ ID) by the week for a series or one-time classes. No partner is required. Dancers can pre-register at https://vermontswings.com/classes. Please bring a change of clean, non-marking shoes (or socks) to protect your knees and the beautiful wooden floor. Email contact@vermontswings.com with any questions. See the forwarded email below!
–The 802 Westie Collective offers a monthly dance and weekly lessons on Wednesdays at the North Star Community Center, 20 Crowley Street, Burlington, but will be taking July and August off. Visit https://802westiecollective.org/ for more info.
If you have any questions, please feel free to call/text/email (cell: 518-645-1930). With appreciation for our social dance community,
Diana Wardell, President
USA Dance Plattsburgh #3068

Explore Historic Clinton County during the 15th Annual Adirondack Coast Museum Days Weekend

Free Admission 10 am to 4 pm, Saturday, June 15, and Sunday, June 16, 2024

(Please note some exceptions in days and times)

The Adirondack Coast Cultural Alliance (ACCA) hosts the 15th Annual Museum Days Weekend throughout Clinton County June 15-16, 2024, inviting visitors and residents to “be a tourist in your own backyard” and explore the area’s wealth of museums, galleries, and cultural organizations. Participating locations will offer free admission for two days from 10 am to 4 pm (with some exceptions as noted), including demonstrations, tours, exhibits, hands-on activities, and more.  This year’s event coincides with the first of two New York State “Path Through History” Weekends in 2024. The Museum Days Weekend schedule will be published in the Plattsburgh Press Republican and on the Adirondack Coast Cultural Alliance Facebook page and ACCA Website – www.adkcoastcultural.org. 

Museum Days were the “brainchild” of Bob Parks, then publisher of the Press-Republican in 2008.  This year would have been the 17th year except for the two years of COVID.  Museum Days is an opportunity for you to experience the rich history of Clinton County.  Each museum has a unique story, and most are run by volunteers.  Museum Days is only possible because of each venue’s dedicated staff and volunteers.  Please take some time to support our local history on Museum Days Weekend, but if you cannot make it that weekend, check the Adirondack Coast Arts & History Passport for more details.  The Passport is available at any venue participating in Museum Days and the Adirondack Coast Visitors Bureau located at 7061 US Rt. 9 in Plattsburgh, open Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.  Volunteers are an important part of preserving our history, please consider volunteering at our local museums.

Participating museums, cultural centers and historic sites are: Read more »

Peru’s Maggie Garrow sets Section VII pentathlon record in a busy day at the outdoor track

“I’m pretty excited … I worked really hard for this,” Garrow said.

Click here for the MYNBC5 story 

Class of 2024 Banners In Place

June 1, 2024—Proud parents of Peru High School’s graduating seniors placed 121 banners on the fence before the intermediate School this morning. Erecting banners began when the COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of an in-person graduation. Today, banners may be part of PCS tradition. The people erecting the banners hope no one will remove them until after graduation. Then, they can be removed. 

Captain Christopher J. Garrow Memorial Bridge Bill Passes State Legislature

News from Assemblyman Billy Jones and State Senator Dan Stec

            A bill to name the Carpenter’s Flats Bridge across the Ausable River in the Towns of Ausable and Peru in honor of Captain Christopher J. Garrow passed the state legislature yesterday. Captain Garrow was a 23-year veteran of the New York State Police who died last year from illnesses stemming from his service at Ground Zero after the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. The bill was introduced by Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Chateaugay Lake) and sponsored by Senator Dan Stec (R-Queensbury) in the Senate.

            “I am proud to have worked with the state police, the Town of Ausable, the Town of Peru and Clinton County to introduce this bill to honor Captain Garrow for serving our communities and helping to keep us all safe,” said Assemblyman Billy Jones. “Captain Garrow gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country and memorializing him this way for his family and loved ones is a small way for the North Country community to show our appreciation for his decades of service.”

“When our nation needed him most after the September 11 terrorist attacks, Captain Christopher Garrow put his health and life on the line. We owe him a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid. Renaming the Carpenter’s Flats Bridge in his hometown is a way to honor him and his family and ensure his service and sacrifice are never forgotten,” said Senator Dan Stec.

“Trooper Garrow was a highly respected individual who represented the New York State Police with distinction and honor,” said Tim Bresett, Supervisor for the Town of Ausable. “The renaming of the Carpenter’s Flats Bridge to Captain Christopher J. Garrow Memorial Bridge is a very fitting tribute to his 22+ years of service protecting and serving the community and the people of New York.”

            Captain Garrow graduated from Peru High School and joined the United States Marine Corps, earning the rank of Sergeant and being awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal and Good Conduct Medal. He became a member of the State Police in 2000 and finished his career at the Troop B Zone Headquarters in Lewis. He is survived by his loving wife and his two daughters.

It’s crop planting time in Peru, NY

By John T Ryan

When you’re enjoying delicious cheese today, take a little time to think about Adirondack Farms employees like Dakota Sayward.  The Peru Gazette talked to Sayward yesterday morning along Mannix Road as he pumped 550 gallons of liquid fertilizer into a 16-row corn planter.

Dakota said he plants about 250 acres of corn daily. So far this spring, he’s planted about 2,300 acres in Peru and Plattsburgh, and he’ll plant 2,000 more over the next few days.

The John Deere Tractor he’s driving and the Ultraplant corn planter he’s pulling have been outfitted with the latest farm technology. Once Sayward aligns the tractor on the rows, satellite guidance steers the tractor and dispenses precise amounts of seed and fertilizer. Champlain Valley Agronomics, also located in Peru, analyzes Adirondack’s fields to determine the satellite guidance and the fertilizer needed in every row.

A Willsboro native, Sayward has worked for Adirondack Farms for about ten years. The Peru Gazette applauds hardworking farm employees like Dakota Sayward. They are genuinely essential workers. Adirondack Farms has 115 employees.

Husband charged in death of devoted local mother

Peru man jailed after multi-day search that ended in an early morning traffic stop in Plattsburgh

Click here for the Sun Comunity Newss story 

Neighboring County Reports Five Positive Rabies Specimens This Year:  Clinton County Residents Urged to Remain Vigilant 

Clinton County, NY, May 31, 2024. Essex County, which borders Clinton County to the south, has reported five confirmed cases of rabies in wildlife this year. Rabies is a deadly viral disease that is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals. Though no cases have been identified in Clinton County this year, the Clinton County Health Department (CCHD) felt it appropriate to alert our residents of precautions to take. 

Amanda Masten, a Senior Public Health Sanitarian at CCHD emphasizes the importance of remaining vigilant and taking necessary precautions. “Usually, rabies is spread through an animal bite; however it can also happen when infected saliva gets into an open cut, your eyes, nose or mouth,” explained Ms. Masten. “Once symptoms manifest, rabies is almost always fatal. This is why prevention measures are crucial.” 

CCHD advises all residents to follow these precautions: 

Ensure Pets Are Vaccinated: Ensure that all pets, including dogs, cats, and domesticated livestock, are up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations. Vaccination not only safeguards pets but also acts as a barrier against rabies transmission to humans. CCHD offers free rabies vaccinations for dogs, cats and ferrets. A full schedule of upcoming clinics can be found at www.clintonhealth.org/rabiesclinics. 

Avoid Strange-Acting Wildlife: Exercise caution around wildlife, particularly if they exhibit abnormal or aggressive behavior. Do not approach or attempt to handle wild animals, even if they are injured. Teach children to do the same. 

Report Suspected Cases: If you encounter a wild animal displaying unusual behavior such as aggression, disorientation, or excessive drooling, promptly notify local animal control or the health department. 

By following these straightforward yet crucial precautions, residents can help reduce the risk of rabies transmission and protect the health and well-being of their families and pets. Additional information, including future Rabies Vaccination Clinic dates, can be found in CCHD’s North Country Health Effect available at http://www.clintonhealth.org/nc_healtheffect/Rabies.pdf and the latest edition of CCHD’s Talking Health Blog available at https://cchdtalkinghealth.blogspot.com/. 

Recycle Right NY—Pizza Boxes

Hey New Yorkers! We all know our pizza is the best, so let’s do it justice and make sure we recycle our pizza boxes right. Whether you prefer a thick and doughy Sicilian crust or a thin and crispy Neapolitan, there is one thing we need to come to agreement on—recycle that pizza box when you’re done!

Every year in the U.S. about 3 billion pizzas are enjoyed. That’s a lot of sauce, cheese, dough, and… cardboard! According to the American Forest & Paper Association, pizza boxes are made of high-quality corrugated paper, which can be recycled at least seven times (AF&PA). 

We know there is confusion among New Yorkers about whether a greasy pizza box is recyclable or not. The majority of recycling programs in New York State accept whole empty pizza boxes, even if there is a bit of grease residue. Before putting a pizza box in the recycling bin, remove any wax paper and the little plastic “table,” scrape the box of any remaining crust or cheese, and recycle that valuable cardboard! If you are ever unsure if the amount of leftover cheese and grease stuck on the pizza box makes it recyclable or not, the next best thing you can do is split the box in two, and only recycle the top half of the box. Check your local recycling program guidelines.

Remember this: Pizza boxes can be recycled, pizza can not. 

Peru Library Book Sale – June 13,14, 15

Adirondack Regional Blood Center Makes Giving Blood Easy In June

Peru Collections on June 10  

PLATTSBURGH, NY (5/31/2024) – The blood and blood products donated this month at the Adirondack Regional Blood Center’s community drives will help hundreds of North Country residents.  The Blood Center, a program of the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH), relies on generous donors to meet the constant need for blood in our region. 

In June, there will be numerous opportunities to give and the Donor Center, located at 85 Plaza Blvd. is open Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4 pm.  Walk ins are always welcome.

Here is the community drive schedule for this month:

  • Monday, June 3, Adirondack Medical Center, Redfield Room, Saranac Lake, noon to 4 pm
  • Tuesday, June 4, Offices of the Town of Long Lake, 2 to 5 pm
  • Wednesday, June 5, Bloomingdale Fire Department, 3:30 to 6:30 pm
  • Friday, June 7, Plattsburgh City Police Community Center, Margaret Street, 10 am to 2 pm
  • Monday, June 10, St. Augustine Parish Center, Peru, 3 to 6:30 pm
  • Tuesday, June 11, Liberty Utilities, Massena, 11 am to 2 pm
  • Wednesday, June 12, Keene Fire Department, 3 to 6 pm
  • Thursday, June 13, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation headquarters, Ray Brook, 10 am to 2 pm
  • Friday, June 14, Lake Side Coffee, Rouses Point, 8 am to noon
  • Tuesday, June 18, St. Edmunds Church Hall, Ellenburg Depot, 4 to 7 pm
  • Wednesday, June 19, Alice Hyde Medical Center, Malone, 11 am to 3 pm
  • Thursday, June 20, Altona Fire Department, 4:30 to 8:30 pm
  • Friday, June 21, BHSN Inc., Route 22B, Morrisonville, 1 to 4 pm
  • Monday, June 24, Riley Ford, Chazy, 1 to 4 pm
  • Tuesday, June 25, Chateaugay American Legion, 4 to 7 pm
  • Thursday, June 27, Morrisonville Ambulance Service, Banker Road, 4 to 7 pm
  • Friday, June 28, Massena Elks Club, 11 am to 2 pm

Blood collected at these drives and at the Donor Center is used by patients in hospitals across the North Country, including Alice Hyde Medical Center, Elizabethtown Community Hospital (including the Ticonderoga campus), and CVPH. In addition to meeting 100% of these facilities’ needs, the Adirondack Regional Blood Center provides blood and blood products to Massena Memorial Hospital and Adirondack Medical Center.

Blood donors must be at least 17 years old (16 years old with written parental/guardian consent), in generally good health, and weigh at least 110 lbs. Prior to donating, a screening questionnaire addressing personal medical, social, and travel history must be completed, and a donor card or another form of identification is also required. Donors must wait 56 days between donations.

Learn more about the Adirondack Regional Blood Center, giving blood and becoming a sponsor at UVMHealth.org/GiveBlood or call 518-562-7406.

Champlain Area Trails Receives $100,000 Smart Growth Grant from the Department of Environmental Conservation

The Department of Environmental Conservation announced that it has awarded Champlain Area Trails (CATS) a $100,000 Smart Growth Grant. This grant underlines the department’s continued commitment to capital projects and community development initiatives that synergize environmental protection, economic development, and community livability, especially within the special protective conditions of the Forest Preserve.

The grant, focused on “Increasing Permanent Public Access to Trails in the Champlain Valley of the Adirondack Park,” will enable CATS to enhance permanent public access to trails on private lands. This initiative not only promises to enrich the Champlain Valley, a jewel in the eastern part of the Adirondack Park known for its stunning natural beauty and recreational significance but also to strengthen community ties and support local economies through sustainable recreational opportunities. Read more »

DEC Forest Rangers summoned to Ausable Point Campground

Town of Peru
Clinton County
Stuck Truck: On May 27, Acting Captain Booth and Forest Ranger Odell responded to Ausable Point Campground for a report of a vehicle stuck on the beach. Following a brief investigation, Rangers determined the operator had attempted to launch their boat from the foot access to the beach the previous evening and got stuck. Boats may only be launched from designated boat launch sites. The operator was ticketed for unauthorized motor vehicle use on State land and launching a boat in an area other than a designated boat launch. A local tow company recovered the vehicle.

What we know about Lisa Dashnaw, woman found dead in vehicle in Plattsburgh

Click here for the MYNBC5 story 

NEWS From the Mission of North Country Mission of Hope Executive Director Deacon James Carlin

I want to take a moment to thank all those individuals and families who have served in the past, presently serve, or have family members who have served or are serving in our military for all they have meant to the legacy of liberty and freedom in the United States of America. May we all work to honor and preserve what they have dedicated and, in many cases, lost their lives to protect.
Now that summer has unofficially kicked off and we are all eager to get out and enjoy all the North Country has to offer, I’d like to share a couple of exciting options with you.
Annual Color Run
Mark your calendars for June 9th! The North Country Mission of Hope is hosting our annual color run at Rulfs Orchards in Peru, NY. This event is not just about running, walking, or strolling through the beautiful course that runs through the Rulf. It’s about experiencing the beauty of our region, enjoying a great time with family or friends, and, most importantly, supporting our Medical Services in Nicaragua. Your entry fee directly contributes to the general health, women’s mental health, and eye and dental clinics serving those in need in rural Nicaragua. Join us on June 9th at noon at Rulf’s Orchards in Peru, NY. Pre-register and pay at the following web link: https://www.adirondackcoastevents.com/upcoming-races
and click on the Mision of Hope Color Run
Return of the Annual Towne Meeting Concert
As the sun sets on June 9th, the Mission will host our annual concert featuring Towne Meeting at St. Augustine’s Church in Peru, NY. This is not just a concert; it’s a community gathering filled with songs, stories, jokes, and laughter. It’s a chance to come together, enjoy each other’s company, and support a great cause. Your donations from this concert directly benefit our Eco Program, which provides environmentally sensitive stoves and clean drinking water filters to those living in our service area of Nicaragua. These programs are not just about preserving the environment; they’re about protecting people from the adverse effects of unclean drinking water. Join us for this special evening at 7 pm on June 9th.
20th Annual McSweenys / North Country Mission of Hope Golf Tournament
Our 20th annual McSweenys / North Country Mission of Hope Golf Tournament will be held at the Barracks Golf Course on Friday, August 9th. The shotgun will start at 12:30 pm, and registration will begin at 11 am. In addition to the beautiful day of golf and the wonderful meal of Michigans and sides provided by McSweeny’s and the Barrack’s, we will have a gift basket raffle, balloon pop, 50/50, mulligans and course contests, and more.
The golf tournament is our largest fundraising event and supports our feeding programs in Nicaragua. We are deeply grateful for your past support, which has provided 70,000 to 80,000 meals for the neighborhood. For many, this meal is the only one they may have in a day. I have attached a registration form to this email, or you can contact me directly at jpcarlin1963@gmail, and I will help you to register.
In addition to golfers, we need volunteers for the event day. We also need volunteers to provide us with the 25 to 30 gift baskets to be raffled off and gift cards between $10 and $25 for the balloon pop. Please help support efforts to feed children and families in any way possible!
MOHtown News and Requests
Our MOHtown (Sr. Debbie Blow, OP warehouse) chief, Jim Dumont, asked me to let you know that we need 5 to 6 volunteers to help with a more significant donation on Tuesday, June 25th. He would like the volunteers to meet at MOHtown (3452 NY State Rt 22, Peru) at 8:30 am. If you can help, please give him a call at 518-651-6009. He has also asked me to request donations of packing tape, pallets, and home health care equipment (wheelchairs, walkers, commodes, electric beds, slide boards, etc.)
Our New Website is Up and Running!
We are pleased to announce that we have a new website. Over the next few months, we hope to add some additional pages and features. Please go and take a look and let us know what you think. http://www.ncmissionofhope.org.
Education Sponsors Mailing
We are sorting and getting ready to mail the annual education sponsors mailing, which includes a photo and letter from your sponsored student. They should be going out soon. Thank you to everyone who sponsors a child. We know that education can transform a child’s future; your caring and generosity make that possible!
On a Personal Note
I have made great strides in my recovery and have been cleared to return to my daily routine. With that will come my return to the office. At first, on a limited basis, but I will be back full-time with continued PT and your prayers.
Thank you for your support and prayers over the years, mainly as I have recovered from my accident.
You are all indeed a blessing.
Yours in Hope,
Deacon James Carlin, Executive Director
North Country Mission of Hope

Apply Now to Clinton Community College

World Turtle Day was May 23

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar today reminded New Yorkers that turtles are nesting in May and June and encouraged motorists to ‘give turtles a brake.’ In New York, thousands of turtles are killed each year by unsuspecting drivers when turtles cross roads to find nesting areas.
“Vehicle strikes are a major cause of mortality among turtles and at this time of year, turtles are particularly vulnerable as they seek sandy areas or loose soil in which to lay their eggs,” Interim Commissioner Mahar said. “When traveling on roads near rivers and marshy areas, DEC encourages drivers on New York roads to slow down and keep a lookout for turtles in our communities.”
Drivers who see a turtle on the road are encouraged to slow down to avoid hitting it with their vehicle. If the vehicle can safely stop and drivers are able to safely do so, motorists should consider moving the turtle to the shoulder on the side of the road in the direction it was facing. Motorists are advised not to pick turtles up by their tails, which could injure the turtle. Most turtles, other than snapping turtles, can be picked up safely by the sides of their shells. Snapping turtles have necks that can reach far back and have a strong bite, and should be picked up by the rear of the shell near the tail using both hands, or dragged safely across the road on a mat or blanket. Never drag turtles by the tail as doing so can dislocate the tail bones.
A licensed wildlife rehabilitator maybe able to help if an injured turtle is found.
DEC reminds people not to take turtles home. All native turtles are protected by law and cannot be kept without a DEC permit. Most of the 11 species of land turtles that are native to New York are in decline. Turtles are long-lived species and it takes many years for a turtle to reach maturity. Losing even one mature female can have a negative impact on a local population. Learn more about New York’s native turtles on DEC’s website.
DEC recognizes May 23 as World Turtle Day®. American Tortoise Rescue (ATR), a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the protection of all species of tortoise and turtle, created World Turtle Day® to celebrate and protect turtles and tortoises and their disappearing habitats around the world. These gentle animals have been around for 200 million years, yet are rapidly disappearing due to smuggling, the exotic food industry, climate change, loss of habitat, and the illegal pet trade.
Follow @NYSDEC’s social media accounts on May 23 for more information about turtles in the state.

 

Brandy McDonald announces he’ll be leaving the town supervisor position

Wednesday, May 29, 2024, Peru, NY – At tonight’s Town Board meeting, Brandy McDonald announced he’d be leaving his position as Town Supervisor in September or October.  He said, “It’s not an easy decision for me, but sometime in September or October, I will be stepping down as town supervisor.  My wife is working in Plattsburgh; we found a place in Plattsburgh and decided to downsize, but we haven’t found a place in Peru. He added,” I love this town, the people, and I love you guys. I’m going to miss it, but it’s the right thing to do.” McDonald said the house in Plattsburgh is under contract; he will not put his Peru house up for sale until July or August.

He hoped that one of the current board members would step up to the supervisor role. If not, they could appoint someone else.

If a board appoints one of its members, the board can either fill the open position or leave it vacant. The supervisor and council positions would be on the November 2025 ballot, with the winning candidate taking office as soon as the election is certified.

 

 

May 29, 2024, 7:20 p.m. Northern Orchard Farmstand, Union Rd., Peru, NY

North Country dealerships come together for new YMCA

Brennan Buick, Goss Chevrolet and Riley Ford applauded for massive $150K donation

Click here for the Sun Community News story 

Police identify woman’s body found inside vehicle in Plattsburgh

Police released the details of an autopsy into the victim on Wednesday afternoon, death ruled a homicide

Click here for the MYNBC5 story

Towne Meeting June 9 Concert to benefit North Country Mission of Hope