The Peru Gazette

Goulash

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!

Donald Joseph Auclair, US Air Force 1957-1961, Cold War

Donald joined the US Air Force along with 13 classmates from Tupper Lake High School under the buddy system. 

He attended basic training and AIT at Lackland Air Force Base to become an Admin Clerk. He was later assigned to Long Island Air Base as a part of Air Defense Command. He was later stationed at Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota. Donald recalled it being a very cold place with temperatures of -40F were soldiers received an extra $11/month for their troubles. He joked that Minot received its name because of all the patches in the fence, Airmen would refer to them as, “Hey that’s my knot.” 

Donald was assigned to pack KC135s when he met a Lt. Colonel who took him on as his right-hand man. He indicated it became easy work and everyone bowed to him because of his connection. Donald said at 17 years old, he grew up pretty fast at Lackland Air Force Base.

Raymond Bigrow, US Army 1972-1973, Vietnam, 

Raymond joined the United States Army on a promise by his recruiter that he could run track on the Army team, though he later learned that was not the case.

He attended basic training at Fort Dix as well as AIT.  Raymond was assigned to Fort Campbell Kentucky as a Personnel Specialist. Though the Army did not provide the opportunity Raymond initially entered for, he explained that he is a very proud Veteran. 

Raymond is actively involved in the American Legion and is commander of the Honor Guard and has also participated in over 250 funerals for Veterans as a member of the Honor Guard.

Patrick George Blinn, US Army 1969-1972, Vietnam

Patrick joined the US Army and attended basic training at Fort Dix. He later attended AIT at Fort Belvoir Virginia to be a diesel mechanic. 

 Patrick was sent to Quang Tri in Vietnam, a historic town which served as the frontline near the DMZ. Patrick later spent time in Hanover Germany, mostly ordering parts. 

Patrick recalled one story where he had to hitchhike from his base to the next base to fly home and he got picked up by an ammo truck. A child ran and jumped on the side of the truck and another soldier kicked the door open sending the child down an embankment into the river.  

After three years of service in the US Army, Patrick returned home carrying with him the experiences and memories of his time serving in Vietnam and Germany. His service was an important chapter in his life and a lasting part of his story as a US Army veteran.

William Robert Burns Jr., US Navy 1967-1997, Vietnam

Bill’s 30-year U.S. Navy career began with four years at the U.S. Naval Academy, where he was a four-year varsity tennis player and co-captain, followed by an all expense paid “tour” of Vietnam aboard the gunboat USS Gallup. 

After earning a Master of Public Administration from Harvard’s Kennedy School, Bill returned to sea, serving in increasingly responsible operational, engineering, and command positions. The highlight of Bill’s Navy career was commanding three ships, including the frigate USS Bagley, the ocean-going tug USS Ute, and, ultimately, the nuclear-powered cruiser USS Long Beach. 

Two memorable deployments stand out: Commanding the USS Bagley during Operation El Dorado Canyon in the Mediterranean and again as commanding officer of Long Beach, participating in Operation Fiery Vigil, helping evacuate military families and their pets following the catastrophic eruption of Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines.

As important as these patrols were, the lasting memory Bill has of that deployment was the moment he knelt on a sandy beach in Nice, France and asked his wife, Catherine, to marry him. She said yes and they will celebrate their 40^th wedding anniversary this coming December.

 In retirement, Bill worked on a study commissioned by Congress and devoted much of his time to volunteer work, church, family, and community service. He has enjoyed life with his wife, children, grandchildren, and their dogs, while reflecting on how richly God has blessed him.

George Desotelle Jr., US Navy 1965-1969, Vietnam

George joined the Navy with little hope of attending college, as he came from a family with one working parent and seven siblings. With several relatives who had served in the Navy, George was familiar with military life and found the Navy appealing.  

George attended boot camp in Great Lakes Illinois where he reported a very cold 6 weeks. He was then stationed on the USS Orion and sent to Naval Air Station Pensacola for additional schooling as a radio operator. 

George spent time in Winter Harbor Maine in Acadia National Park doing Communications and then completed his career aboard the USS Georgetown. George reported sailing into the Indian Ocean before having to turn back stateside due to mechanical issues.   

Dennis Raymond Doyle, US Navy 1962-1964, Vietnam

Dennis joined the Navy for the opportunity to see the world. He entered Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island, but later left the program and continued training at Great Lakes, Illinois.

He was sent to Norfolk, Virginia, where he waited about a month for orders to the USS Enterprise. Dennis recalled a 26-hour flight from Norfolk to Port Lyautey, Africa, followed by another five- to six-hour flight to Rhodes, Greece, where he boarded the Enterprise.

Assigned to the Executive Division, Dennis specialized in Journalism and Communications. He described the Enterprise as a “show ship,” where celebrities such as John Wayne and Bing Crosby came aboard. He served aboard for 22 months.

Dennis recalled going to the Officers Club in plain clothes with others. An officer he had interviewed recognized him but did not discipline him, later telling Dennis he could have ended up in the brig.

After 30 years with SUNY and 13 years with PARC, it is fitting that this ceremony takes place outside his former office.   

Kenneth Paul Ellis, US Army, 1969-1970 & 1991, Vietnam/Desert Storm

Ken was drafted into the US Army and attended basic training at Fort Dix. He then was sent to Fort Sam Houston to become, as he called it, “a grunt medic.” 

Ken was then sent to Korat, a base on the Cambodia/Thailand border which now serves as a base for the Royal Thai Air Force. At the time, this was a combat wing hub and Ken was sent there for close air support. Ken spent 1 month there, and this was designated a Hardship Tour Area. Ken received a 5 month early out and was discharged at Oakland Army Air Base. 

Ken later received an OCS Commission in 1991 after a Presidential Proclamation ordering him back to Active Duty during Desert Storm. Ken reported being on standby the whole time and serving approximately 2.5 months. 

When asked about any particularly humorous stories of his service, he simply replied, “Snakes & Monkeys.”

John Adrian Girouard, US Air Force, 1970-1974, Vietnam

John joined the US Air Force with a friend on the buddy system after receiving a draft notice. Unfortunately, John’s friend would pass in a car accident before they entered. 

John attended basic training at Lackland Air Force Base and received additional training at Lowry Air Base in Colorado to be a Material Facilities Specialist. John was then assigned to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware where he spent his time working in the warehouse.

John shared that one of the most difficult aspects of his service was being stationed at Dover, Delaware, home of the official Dignified Transfer location for the U.S. Armed Forces. He recalled witnessing the solemn arrival of metal transfer cases containing the remains of fallen service members—a deeply painful experience that left a lasting impression on him and continues to affect him to this day.

Robert Paul Lewis, US Army, 1967-1969, Cold War

Robert was drafted into the US Army right out of High School. He attended Basic Training at Fort Dix and then onto AIT at Fort Belvoir Virginia to train to become a Generator Operator and Mechanic. 

Robert was assigned to Weisbaden Air Base in Germany from January 1968 to June 1969.

Robert recalled fondly the good friends he made during his service. He especially remembered the “southern boys”. Robert also recalled chasing rats with the M151 and, one time when he was using the outhouse, a huge rat the size of a housecat came under the door. The unexpected encounter left Robert with a story he would never forget.

Robert went on to use the skills he learned during his service as a diesel bus mechanic for 21 years. He is also proud of his service as the Chaplain for the Keene Valley Legion for 20 years.  

John Wayne Patnode, US Marines, 1969-1971, Vietnam

John joined the Marine Corps on the buddy system with a close friend. He attended boot camp at Parris Island and ITR at Camp Lejeune.  John then attended pole climbing school at Camp Pendleton finally returning to Camp Lejeune for line training and running switchboard. 

John was sent to Vietnam in September 1970 outside Da Nang Hill until July 1971. John served as a door gunner on a medivac chopper for one month. He also served with the 1^st Battalion 5^th Marines as an MP for a while. 

John recalled a time where guys were out lifting weights and decided to lift a Commander’s Jeep between 2 stones. He said the Commander was good about it and gave them 20 minutes to get it put back. 

John credits the Marine Corps for teaching him discipline and unconditional respect for everyone.

John Poulin, US Army, 1953-1961, Korea

John volunteered to serve, and he said that they chose the Army for him.  He completed his basic training at Fort Dix and then finished cook school at the same location.

John was sent to Suwon Korea where he spent approximately 1 year there cooking for soldiers.  

John recalled one time finding a young Korean boy inside a trash can searching for food. He stated the boy had leprosy and it was hard seeing him like that.  John also reported enjoying his trip to Korea, especially the train ride to Suwon.

John returned to Fort Dix where he assisted with construction of new housing. John also served as the Colonel’s orderly on weekends. One time a new 2^nd Lieutenant once told John he needed to early morning PT with the other soldiers, but the Colonel stepped in and fixed it for him. 

Brian Robert Stork, US Marines, 1970-1974, Vietnam

Brian was drafted into the Army but decided he would go explore other opportunities at the recruitment office in Plattsburgh. He recalled hearing that the Air Force and Navy had delayed entry programs, but they were too far out. He remembers looking down the hallway and the Marine recruiter said, “Wanna go tomorrow?”   

Brian attended Boot Camp at Parris Island and ITR at Camp Lejeune to be an Avionics Technician. Brian saw several different assignments throughout his career, including Memphis TN Naval Air Station, Cherry Point NC, Lwakuni Japan, and Subic Bay Naval Air Station in Luzon Philippines.   

Brian recalled how the Philippines has Martial Law from 11pm to 4am and he had to catch an early flight, so he ran through town to get back to base with getting caught by the Philippines Police. Brian also recounted a time in Lwakuni where he had a few beverages the night before and then had the best time he ever ran on his PFT the next day. 

Brian reflected how in his entire time in the Marines, he never touched a plane. He thinks one time he leaned against an A4 while sweeping the hangar but spent most of his time working on equipment for planes and component repair. 

Brian also served in the NY Army National Guard from 1982-1983 and then the Vermont Air National Guard from 1984-2001.

Gary Earl Taylor, US Navy, 1972-1976, Vietnam

Gary researched every military branch before choosing the Navy, following in his older brother’s footsteps—though his wife jokes he only picked it to impress her mother and win approval to marry her.

Gary attended Boot Camp at Great Lakes Illinois and his Class A School also there where he went from an E1 to E3. 

Gary was assigned to the USS Simon Lake, hull number AS 33, and was responsible for the emergency diesel generator. He later worked in the boat shop where he took care of the Captain’s Boat and recreational boats. 

Gary reflected on his service years as a good time. He stated that he didn’t have to live on the ship and instead lived on the beach with his wife. He said their house was the party house and they had good times every weekend with guitars and country music. Gary said they did a lot of camping and saw bull fights and the running of the bulls. 

Gary received a commendation for repair to a hydraulic crane after working 2 weeks straight of 12 hours on and 12 hours off. 

Dennis Bardelcik, US Air Force 1969–1976, Vietnam Era

Dennis Bardelcik began his United States Air Force service at the age of 19. Inspired by his older brother, Dennis chose the Air Force and trained as a Navigation and Bombing Trainer Specialist, working with advanced flight simulator technology.

During his military career, Dennis worked with F-4 Phantom flight simulators and later served at RAF Upper Heyford in England. His work with classified simulator technology played an important role in preparing aircrews for combat missions.

After leaving active duty, Dennis continued his career in flight simulation with Singer Link, eventually relocating to the Plattsburgh area. He worked on F-111 simulators at the former Plattsburgh Air Force Base and witnessed remarkable advances in aviation technology throughout his career.

John Buttolph III, US Army 1964–1967, Cold War

John Buttolph III served in the United States Army from 1964 to 1967 during the Vietnam War era and the height of the Cold War. After completing two years of Army ROTC at Hillyer College, John chose to enlist rather than wait to be drafted.

Following basic training, John received specialized training in military intelligence at Fort Holabird. He was then assigned to the 513th Military Intelligence Group, Berlin Station, where he spent approximately two and a half years serving in West Berlin.

The 513th conducted Cold War intelligence operations, including espionage, counterintelligence, and signal and human intelligence collection and technical support throughout Europe.

Stationed near the famous Checkpoint Charlie, John experienced life in a city divided between East and West during one of the tensest periods of the Cold War. He remembers his time in Berlin as exciting, unique, and unlike anything else he could have experienced.

Michael McCole, US Coast Guard 1965-2000, Vietnam Era 

Michael McCole enlisted in the United States Coast Guard in June 1965, just days after graduating from high school at the age of 17. After basic training at Cape May, New Jersey, he served aboard the USCGC Cuyahoga, eventually becoming a Gunner’s Mate.

Michael deployed to Vietnam in support of Operation Market Time, helping prevent the movement of enemy supplies along the Vietnamese coastline. As a Gunner’s Mate Second Class, he served in the ship’s five-inch gun mount during combat operations.

After active duty, Michael returned to civilian life before reenlisting in the Coast Guard Reserve. He continued serving for another 28 years, ultimately retiring as a Master Chief Gunner’s Mate with more than 33 years of total service.

Throughout his Reserve career, Michael also became a certified small arms and marksmanship instructor, spending nearly two decades training Coast Guard personnel in firearms safety and qualification.

Paul Gainer, US Army 1966–1972, Vietnam 

Paul Gainer was drafted into the United States Army in January 1966 at the age of 19. After basic training at Fort Dix, New Jersey, he trained in the Signal Corps as a pole lineman before preparing for deployment to Vietnam.

Once deployed, Paul spent 21 days traveling by ship from California to Vietnam, crossing the International Date Line along the way. Once there, he was assigned to the Bearcat area, where he worked in communications, repairing radios, climbing poles, and performing guard duty.

Later, Paul transferred to an ammunition depot near Pleiku, where he drove a 2½-ton “deuce and a half” truck transporting ammunition and ordnance.

After about a year in Vietnam, Paul returned home aboard a C-130. Coming home was difficult, as he witnessed firsthand the poor treatment many Vietnam veterans received. Despite those challenges, Paul proudly served his country and carried the experiences of his service with him throughout his life.

Richard Harwood, US Marine Corps, 1975–1995, Vietnam Era /Cold War 

Richard Harwood began his United States Marine Corps journey at just 17 years old, enlisting with his mother’s hesitant permission. He entered Marine Corps recruit training, where he excelled as a rifleman and was meritoriously promoted as the highest shooter in his platoon.

Richard went on to train as a combat engineer and heavy equipment operator before serving at Camp Pendleton and later in Okinawa, Japan. During his time overseas, he supported Marines throughout Asia, traveling to the Philippines, Korea, and Taiwan while delivering critical parts and supplies to field units.

Richard later began a long and successful career in Marine Corps recruiting, serving in Oswego, Syracuse, Albany, and eventually Plattsburgh. While in Plattsburgh, he rebuilt the recruiting station into one of the top-performing stations in the district, earning Station of the Year.

Richard retired from the Marine Corps in 1995 as a Gunnery Sergeant after 20 years of dedicated service.

Dennis Hatch, US Navy 1976–1982, Cold War

Dennis Hatch proudly served during the Cold War era aboard the USS Piedmont. Dennis originally hoped to become an electrician in the Navy. During his testing, he was given what he was told were six numbers and asked to identify them. Unable to see the numbers, he thought the tester was joking with him. He soon learned that he was color blind, which prevented him from pursuing electrical work. Instead, he was assigned as a Navy patternmaker.

Aboard the USS Piedmont, Dennis worked in the ship’s foundry, creating detailed patterns from wood and plastic that were used to cast replacement metal parts. His work required precision and craftsmanship and helped keep the ship’s equipment and systems operating.

One of Dennis’s favorite memories came while carving a chess piece. An officer noticed his work and reminded him he was using Navy materials. Later, the chief in charge discovered the piece and, rather than disciplining Dennis, quietly asked him to make two chess sets—one for the chief and one for Dennis. Dennis still has his chess set today, a lasting reminder of his service.

Ron LeBlanc, US Army 1970–2005, Vietnam Era/ Cold War/Global War on Terror Era

Ron LeBlanc began his military career at age 22 when he joined the U.S. Army Reserves. What he expected to be a short commitment became a 35-year career in the Army Reserve and National Guard.

Ron joined during the Vietnam War era, knowing he could potentially be drafted. Encouraged by his father, who had served in the Plattsburgh Army Reserve, Ron chose to serve voluntarily.

Throughout his career, Ron served with units in New York, Vermont, and Massachusetts, beginning as a clerk typist before moving into computer operations, network security, and computer warfare training.

One of the highlights of Ron’s career was teaching at Norwich University, where he trained soldiers from around the world, including many from South America, in emerging military technologies. He valued the opportunity to work with people from different backgrounds and cultures while preparing the next generation of military professionals.

Laurent L’Esperance, US Navy/Vermont Army National Guard, 1964–2002              Vietnam 

Laurent L’Esperance comes from a long family tradition of military service and went on to dedicate more than three decades of his own life to serving his country.

Laurent enlisted in the U.S. Navy at about 20 years old, with the goal of pursuing medical training. After becoming a Navy corpsman, he was assigned to the Marine Corps at Camp Lejeune before deploying to Vietnam.

During his year in Vietnam, Laurent served as a combat corpsman with the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, providing medical care to Marines on the ground in areas including Chu Lai and Phu Bai. He witnessed the devastating realities of combat and cared for wounded service members during some of the most difficult moments of the war, including the Tet Offensive. For his actions and service, Laurent was awarded the Bronze Star.

After leaving active duty in 1968, Laurent continued serving in the Vermont Army National Guard for another 32 years, eventually rising to the rank of First Sergeant with a medical company.

Laurent is traveling today with his son-in-law Paul, a US Air Force Veteran who served in Iraq. 

Edward Lynch, US Navy 1969–1970, Vietnam Era

Edward Lynch was 18 years old when he enlisted in the United States Navy, following a strong family tradition of military service. His grandfather served in the Army during World War II, while his father was a Marine who served in the South Pacific. Growing up on Lake Champlain, Edward also had a natural love of the water, making the Navy a fitting choice.

Edward attended gunnery training at Great Lakes, Illinois, His training focused on naval weapons, including the operation, maintenance, and servicing of machine guns and shipboard guns. He then served at Naval Station Great Lakes. His assignments included working at the base marina, where he helped maintain boats used for training and operations.

Edward served during the turbulent Vietnam era. Following the unrest and anti-war demonstrations surrounding the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, he remembers the base being secured with razor wire and machine-gun positions. He witnessed demonstrations and the hostility sometimes directed toward servicemen.

William Clark Mason, US Air Force 1961-1965, Vietnam

Bill was 17, right out of high school and unable to afford college, signed up for the US Air Force before he would be drafted. He wanted to find a way to work, and the US Air Force gave him that opportunity.

When he was at boot camp at Lackland Air Force Base, his superior said he looked like a good person and assigned him as a road guard.

Bill did electronics training for 22 weeks at Keesler Air Force Base. He was working on a specific type of electronics machinery with the Ground Electronics Engineering Installation Agency that was on all the planes. It other words, it was the radar that directed the planes.

He traveled around to various areas to help those having difficulty with radar equipment and to protect the northern borders. While on one trip here to the North Country in 1964, he met his wife, Linda.  That same year he and three other personnel received a letter of commendation recognizing their outstanding performance installing C&E equipment at a facility at the US Naval Air Station in Key West, Florida.

Bill says without his service he never would’ve grown up. He and his wife, Linda, celebrated their 61^st anniversary yesterday and Bill credits Linda for helping him come out of his shell and to be a better person.

William Poupore, US Army 1967–1969, Vietnam 

William Poupore was drafted into the United States Army at the age of 19. A lifelong resident of Churubusco, New York, William grew up on his family’s dairy farm before answering the call to serve his country.

After completing his training, William was deployed to Vietnam with the 4th Infantry Division. He spent a year serving in the Central Highlands near Pleiku, close to the Cambodian border. As an infantryman, he spent nearly ten and a half months in the field, facing intense rain, thick jungle, steep mountains, and difficult terrain.

During his final six months in Vietnam, William volunteered for reconnaissance duty with Echo Company, serving as a scout in small teams moving through the jungle ahead of larger units.

After returning home, William continued his military service with the U.S. Army Reserve in Plattsburgh, eventually reaching the rank of Sergeant.  

Stephen Rivers, US Navy, 1966–1972, Vietnam 

Stephen joined the United States Navy Reserve while still in high school. At just 18 years old, he completed boot camp in Rhode Island and earned the rank of E-3 before reporting for active duty.

Stephen served aboard the USS Inflict, a wooden ocean minesweeper operating in the Western Pacific during the Vietnam War. After crossing the Pacific on the small ship through rough seas, he volunteered to become a Radarman. Through on-the-job training, he worked in the Combat Information Center, monitoring radar during minesweeping missions off the coast of Vietnam.

Stephen quickly earned the rank of Petty Officer Third Class. His commanding officer even wrote to his parents, noting that Stephen was believed to be one of the youngest petty officers serving in the Western Pacific at the time.

When Stephen returned home via California, he remembers being met by anti-war protesters rather than the appreciation veterans deserved.

After completing his active-duty service, Stephen fulfilled the remainder of his six-year commitment in the Naval Reserve, where he briefly taught radar training.

David Swarts, US Army 1965-1967, Vietnam 

David Swarts was drafted into the United States Army and began his military training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, followed by Fort Knox, Kentucky.

David’s ability to type quickly became an unexpected asset during his service, leading him to administrative duties. He was responsible for morning reports, personnel records, promotions, transfers, and official correspondence. His attention to detail and dedication earned him an impressive four promotions in just two years.

David spent approximately 19½ months serving in Germany, where his behind-the-scenes work helped keep his unit running smoothly. He took great pride in knowing that his efforts supported his fellow soldiers and helped ensure important personnel matters were handled correctly.

Military service was a family tradition for David. Five of his six brothers also served, including one brother who made the ultimate sacrifice, losing his life during World War II before David was born. David will be accompanied by his daughter, Autumn, a US Navy veteran. 

Anthony Trombley, US Navy 1963–1971, Vietnam Era 

Anthony Trombley served eight years in the United States Navy during the Vietnam era, spending most of his career aboard a nuclear-powered submarine.

After boot camp at Great Lakes, Anthony volunteered for the Navy’s nuclear power program. He completed specialized training in Machinist’s Mate operations, nuclear power, prototype systems, and submarine school in Groton, Connecticut.

Anthony was assigned to the USS Paddle, where he served as a machinist responsible for the mechanical systems supporting the submarine’s nuclear reactor plant, including turbines and pumps. He also completed specialized emergency welding training, preparing him to make critical repairs while at sea.

During his service, Anthony spent extended periods underwater, including an 84-day patrol. His work required tremendous technical skill, discipline, and responsibility while serving aboard a submarine with a crew of approximately 100 sailors.

Karl “Kit” Twetan Jr., US Navy  1969-1974, Cold War

After graduating from Canton College with an engineering degree, Karl enlisted in the Navy and trained as an electrician.

Kit spent his first two years serving aboard tugboats in Norfolk, Virginia, supporting ships throughout the harbor. He remembers the tugboats as some of the best duty he could have asked for. The small fleet handled just about everything in the harbor.

He later served aboard the USS El Paso, an amphibious troop transport carrying Marines throughout the Caribbean. As an electrician, Kit was responsible for the ship’s cranes and landing craft, making sure the equipment was ready whenever Marines needed to go ashore. They visited islands throughout the Caribbean, Panama, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

One of the most remarkable moments of his service came when he spotted a World War II destroyer being towed through the harbor. The ship’s name looked familiar, and he realized it was the very ship his father had served aboard during World War II. A remarkable connection between two generations of Navy service.

Looking back, Kit considers his Navy years a rewarding experience filled with good friends, great memories, and a deep sense of pride in having served his country.

The highs and lows of Adirondack gardening.

Click here for the Adirondack Explorer story 

Click here for the Adirondack Almanac story 

Plattsburgh, 9/5/26 – U.S. Oval, Veterans Memorial Park – Many people and organizations turned out early this morning to honor the 29 veterans flying to Washington D.C. on Honor Flights 72 and 73. Veteran photos and biographies will be posted tomorrow. As of today, 1,095 veterans, plus their escorts, have flown to Washington D.C. thanks to the North Country Honor Flight Program.

Click here to view Peru Gazette photos 

Ross is one of just three to be so honored

Click here to view the Sun Community News story 

As of September 5, 2026 the North County Flight has flown 1,095 veterans to Washington D.C.

Click here to see the veterans arrive at the U.S. Oval 

(PLATTSBURGH, NY – September 4, 2026) The Strand Center for the Arts is facing an immediate financial crisis. Without substantial support from the community now, they may not have the resources necessary to meet their current obligations and continue operating. 

“The world is changing around us and we need to change with it but first we need to be able to exist beyond this year. This is not the message we thought we would be sharing with the community now but, here we are,” said Megan Charland, the Executive Director of the Strand Center for the Arts. 

“The Strand is fortunate to have a committed and hard working staff, and our class, youth camp and event offerings in the arts center are often sold out fairly quickly. However, the theatre, where most of our profits come from, is underperforming considerably when compared to last year and compared to trends over the last three years. Across the country, performing arts organizations are navigating changing audience and ticket-buying trends, and the Strand is experiencing some of those shifts as well. Theatre revenue has historically made up 60-65% of the organization’s annual revenue. Just last year it was 66%. Theatre revenue through July is down 27% since last year, equating to a loss of about $140,000 in revenue. This reflects a national trend in declining ticket sales and the Strand is not immune. We need the support of the community to help us continue investing in the artists, performances, programs and experiences that bring our mission to life,” said Ryan Demers, Board of Trustees President of the Strand Center for the Arts. 

As a mission-driven non-profit organization, the Strand has always relied upon grants, sponsorships, and donations, both small and large, to supplement their earned income and support their efforts. Fundraising is currently lower than last year by about 30%. 

Programming revenue in the Strand’s arts center remains steady, which reflects the community’s desire for more classes and youth camps, but the revenue and profits from those efforts is significantly lower than those driven by the theatre. The Strand relies on grants and other forms of income to supplement their efforts, but those have decreased versus last year by 75% as funding is limited and more arts centers, like theirs, express greater needs. 

“In order to continue our mission to enrich, energize and engage our community through the arts, we’re asking you to donate what you can to help us get through this tough time. The Strand has been a Plattsburgh destination for the arts and entertainment for the last 26 years, and attracts over 35,000 visitors a year, and we hope to keep that going for another 26 years into the future,” said Ryan Demers, Board of Trustees President of the Strand Center for the Arts. 

“Right now, we urgently need to raise $50,000. Every contribution, whether it is $25, $100, $1,000, or more, will help us continue paying our immediate obligations and keep the Strand’s doors open. If the Strand has brought joy to you or someone you love, please stand with us now,” said Megan Charland, the Executive Director of the Strand Center for the Arts. 

To learn more and make a donation, visit their website at: www.strandcenter.org 

About Strand Center for the Arts 

Founded in 2000, the Strand Center for the Arts (SCA) is dedicated to offering arts education & cultural events to residents from Clinton, Essex & Franklin counties, and surrounding areas in Vermont and Québec, through a multi-disciplinary Arts Center and performing arts Theatre. The SCA strives to improve the quality of life for all members in our community by promoting creativity and self-growth, creating strong models for cultural & civic engagement, and by providing resources for better physical, mental & emotional health. We work to offer these services regardless of socio-economic status, age, or abilities. The SCA is a cultural and economic driver, and hub for family engagement, unique in capacity, reach & caliber as the only 

major arts center in a 50-mile radius: vital in the surrounding rural areas of the North Country region. Through diverse programs & partnerships, the SCA contributes toward improved personal wellbeing for people of all ages and ability with high-quality visual & performing arts classes; robust theatre offerings, including music, dance, comedy & film; and digital engagement efforts widely distributing arts resources. For more information on the Strand Center for the Arts visit our website: StrandCenter.org 

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By John T Ryan 

Peru, NY, September 3, 2026 – If you’ve ever admired the Irwins’ Maplegrand Farm on Jarvis Road, you might have noticed something different yesterday afternoon. One of the farm’s five silos is no longer there. 

Early Wednesday, six Amish men arrived and set up scaffolding inside the empty silo. By 8:30, 30 more Amish men joined them. Some climbed the 60-foot-high scaffolding and soon removed the silo’s metal crown. Then they removed the hoops encircling the silo before yanking out the 80-pound cement interlocking sections (staves) . Then they passed the staves to a man who shouted a warning before dropping them onto the hay pile below. Young men quickly gathered the staves and carried them to men stacking them on two large flatbed trailers. By 3 p.m., the silo was gone. The 1,200-plus staves and the crown were ready to be transported to an Amish farm in Ellenburg. The Amish said the silo would be rebuilt there by this afternoon. Why take down the silo? Jim Irwin explained, “We haven’t used the silos since we sold the cows in 2017. We needed more space to turn the equipment around. So, we offered the silo to the Amish.” 

Today, the Irwin brothers—Jim, Bob, Melvin, and Jim’s son, Tyler—focus on growing crops. Near the four silos that remain, a cornfield is thriving. Not far away, hay is almost ready for a second cut. A few days ago, the Irwins harvested oats across the road, and their nearby apple orchard is almost ready for picking. The Irwins are still farmers!

Jim, Bob, Melvin, and Tyler no plans to take down the silos that are still standing.  Maplegrand Farm is still a thing of beauty!  Thank you, Irwins. 

Editor’s Note – The Gazette respected the Amish request that photos not be taken of them.

The law would allow the state to charge the world’s biggest fossil fuel companies $3 billion annually over the next 25 years to pay for climate damages

Click here for the Adirondack Almanac story 

Click here for the Adirondack Almanac story 

How an Aug. 2024 incident that resulted in the deaths of a sow and two cubs turned a town into animal advocates.

Click here for the Adirondack Explorer story 

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September 10^th – 2:00 pm, 98 Ohio Avenue, Plattsburgh. Walking Tour of the Plattsburgh Oval.  Starting from the Clinton County Historical Association, with tour guides Maribeth Dunajski and Richard Caudell, hear histories of the historic buildings with special inside views of the Officers’ quarters and the Plattsburgh Memorial Chapel. Registration is suggested by calling 518-561- 0340.

September 12 – 10 am to Noon, Trinity Church, Plattsburgh. Macdonough’s Naval Career before and after the battle with Military Historian Thaddeus Booth Trudeau and The History of the Macdonough Monument with CCHA Director Helen Nerska.

September 16^th, 6:00 pm, Pine Harbour, 15 New Hampshire Street, Plattsburgh.  William Henry Miner and His Lasting Legacy in the North Country with Amy Bedard, Library Director, William H. Miner Agricultural Research Institute.  William Henry Miner’s life is a true Horatio Alger story. Orphaned as a pre-teen, Miner was sent from the Midwest to live with his aunt and uncle in Chazy, New York. Miner returned to the Midwest as a young man and eventually became a successful inventor of railroad equipment by the late 19th century. After achieving his wealth, Miner returned to Chazy with his wife Alice to establish Heart’s Delight Farm. The farm was a model of agricultural innovation and self-sufficiency. The Miners also believed in using their fortune to help others and their remarkable generosity continues to impact the North Country.

September 18^th – 12:30 pm. Plattsburgh Senior Center, 5139 North Catherine Street, Plattsburgh. The Grange Movement in Clinton County and its Legacy. Beginning in Mooers in 1897, the Grange Movement quickly spread throughout Clinton County providing access to what was declared in the Plattsburgh Sentinel in 1904 to be one of the “grandest educational organizations in the world.” Welcoming both men and women into their organizational hierarchy, granges and their leaders built halls, published histories, held educational forums and hosted community events throughout Clinton County. Helen Nerska, the daughter of a ‘granger’ shares her research on the impact of this nation-wide movement in our County.

September 19^th, 6:00 pm. Pine Harbour, 15 New Hampshire Street, Plattsburgh. Redford Glass Uncovered. The presentation with CCHA Director Helen Nerska will take participants back to a period more than 200 years ago to learn about the short-lived history of the Redford Glass Company.  Although the company was in business for only 20 years they produced products that demonstrated unique skilled craftsmanship that survive to this day.  By the end of the presentation participants will see how the Company, that was once famous and esteemed for its crown glass windowpanes, has become synonymous with unique and priceless glassware.

September 22^nd, 6:45 pm, Lake Forest Retirement Community, 8 Lake Forest Drive, Plattsburgh. “Revisiting the Brinkerhoff & Court Street Historic Districts: Gains, Omissions, and Losses over 50 Years.” With Dr. James Lindgren, Professor Emeritus, SUNY Plattsburgh. With the passage of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and the many threats to Plattsburgh’s rich cultural heritage in those years, Dr. Allan Everest and the Clinton County Historical Association jump-started a drive in the 1970s to protect endangered architecture in the city center. Their work led to the creation of four National Register Historic Districts, which included two very different districts on Brinkerhoff and Court Streets in 1982. This illustrated presentation assesses what was included, how it changed over the years, and the many issues still facing both districts.

September 24^th, 6:00 pm, Plattsburgh Memorial Chapel, Old Base, Plattsburgh. The Archaeological Examination of Arnold’s Bay. In October of 1776 a tiny bay on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain was the site of the final encounter of the three-day Revolutionary War Battle on Lake Champlain which started at Valcour Island. In this location, formerly known as Ferris Bay, five colonial vessels, under the command of Benedict Arnold, were burned to deny their capture by the British fleet. Arnold and his men crews escaped overland while under fire from the British vessels. Since 2021 the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum has been conducting a battlefield survey of Arnold’s Bay and the shoreline around it with a goal of refining our understanding of the battlefield and any remaining vessel wreckage through in-water and terrestrial survey.  Lake Champlain Maritime Museum Executive Director Chris Sabick will present the background history of the site and a description of previous archaeology work, and present preliminary results of recent excavations.

For more information, contact Helen Nerska, Director, Clinton County Historical Association.

(cell) 513-582-7246, (museum) 518-561-0240

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Ellenburg Depot man walks away from his job in Corrections 

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Top artists from the Champlain Valley — and one special guest performer from Delaware — present masterworks in existence at the time of the Battle of Plattsburgh

Plattsburgh, September 1, 2026 – For the second consecutive September, this year’s Battle of Plattsburgh Commemoration Weekend will feature for special programs showcasing music that would have been heard by audiences in Europe and in North America in September 1814, the month and year when the battle was fought. 

All four concerts will feature standout Champlain Valley performers whose professional credits range from Carnegie Hall to Broadway, from the Boston Symphony Orchestra to the Orchestra of St. Luke’s, from the Crane School of Music to Yale University, and from several other top-level venues across Japan, Canada, and multiple European nations — plus a special appearance by veteran stage and screen actor Steven Mumford, who will travel from Delaware to deliver an exclusive performance of his original monologue portraying Battle of Plattsburgh hero Commodore Thomas Macdonough.   

Each concert is free of charge with the purchase of a Battle of Plattsburgh Commemoration button, with all performances taking place in the sanctuary of the Trinity Episcopal Church in Plattsburgh.

The schedule of this unique Battle of Plattsburgh period music series includes: 

Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos By Champlain Strings. Sept. 12, 4 p.m. 

The Plattsburgh-based string orchestra that delighted listeners last year with The Four Seasons returns to present three of Johann Sebastian Bach’s masterpieces: the immortal Brandenburg Concertos No. 3, No. 5, and No. 6! Likely the first time that all three of these melodious works have been performed in the same program anywhere in the North Country! Featuring Champlain Valley-based professional soloists Marilyn Reynolds (violin), Robin Cameron-Phillips (flute), and John Curtis (harpsichord).

Beethoven’s Chamber Music For Wind Instruments By The Adirondack Wind Ensemble. Sept. 12, 5:30 p.m. 

Ludwig van Beethoven’s Octet for Winds and Sextet for Winds were popular classics at the time of the Battle of Plattsburgh, and both works remain gems of the wind instrument repertoire today. Daniel Gordon leads musicians from the Adirondack Wind Ensemble in presenting these two compositions by a composer who was still dazzling the Western world when the turning point of the War of 1812 occurred in our community.

McCarty & Macdonough: The Violist & The Commodore. Sept. 13, 1 p.m.

Violist Patricia McCarty, whose professional credits range from the Boston Symphony Orchestra to an impressive globally celebrated array of solo recordings, presents a program of solo viola classics by Georg Philipp Telemann, Johann Sebastian Bach, Alessandro Rolla, and more. 

Joining her will be award-winning actor and playwright Steven Mumford, who is traveling from Delaware to present an exclusive performance of his original monologue in the character of Commodore Thomas Macdonough, the hero of the Battle of Plattsburgh, telling this dramatic story through spoken episodes that intertwine with the music!

Battle of Plattsburgh Vespers. Sept. 13, 3 p.m. 

Helen Demong, Artistic Director of the Northern Lights Choir, leads a chamber chorus of North Country vocalists in a program of choral classics, joined by beloved collaborative pianist Jennifer Moore. Sacred and secular works by Mozart, Palestrina, William Billings, Michael Haydn, Tomas Luis de Victoria, and many more — plus some stunning vocal solos — will bring this commemoration weekend to a deeply moving conclusion.

The four concerts are produced by Plattsburgh resident Benjamin Pomerance and are made possible through the generosity of the Battle of Plattsburgh Commemoration Committee. 

Seating for each concert is first-come, first-served. Attendees are encouraged to come early to secure their seat of choice. 

For more information, please contact Benjamin Pomerance at pomerance.benjamin58@gmail.com

Peru Gazette file photo

BETA Technologies to unveil one-of-a-kind “P-51 Bustang” during a special 6:30 a.m. event at the U.S. Oval

PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. — September 1, 2026 — North Country Honor Flight will send 29 North Country veterans to Washington, D.C., on Saturday, September 5, for a day dedicated to honoring their service and sacrifice.

The veterans traveling on North Country Honor Flight Flights 72 and 73 represent several generations of American military service. The group includes a Korean War veteran, several Vietnam War veterans and veterans who served during the Cold War.

This mission will also mark the unveiling of a one-of-a-kind vehicle created specifically to transport North Country’s heroes.

Introducing the “P-51 Bustang”

Flights 72 and 73 are being sponsored by BETA Technologies, which has transformed a bus donated by Saranac Central School into a rolling masterpiece.

Patterned after the legendary P-51 Mustang, the specially designed bus has been affectionately named the “P-51 Bustang.” The one-of-a-kind vehicle represents a deep appreciation for the veterans it was created to serve.

“Rich, Ashley and the entire BETA Technologies crew have poured their heart and soul into the project. The P-51 Bustang will become a lasting part of our organization, and we are incredibly grateful. ” says Barrie Finnegan, Executive Director of North Country Honor Flight.

The P-51 Bustang will be officially unveiled at 6:30 a.m. Saturday, September 5, at the U.S. Oval in Plattsburgh, as the veterans arrive for their Honor Flight sendoff ceremony.

September 5 Sendoff

Veterans will travel through town with “Thunder in the ‘burgh” and arrive at the US Oval at approximately 6:30 a.m., where BETA Technologies will unveil the P-51 Bustang.

The official North Country Honor Flight departure ceremony will begin at 7:00 a.m.

Family members, friends, fellow veterans, community members, local officials and supporters are encouraged to gather at the U.S. Oval to give these 29 veterans the sendoff they deserve.

Following the ceremony, the veterans will continue to the airport and begin their journey to Washington, D.C. There, they will visit the memorials dedicated to the generations of Americans who served our country.

For many of these veterans, the trip will provide an opportunity to finally see memorials that honor their service and the service of their fellow soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines.

North Country Honor Flight extends its deepest appreciation to BETA Technologies for sponsoring Flights 72 and 73 and for creating a project that will remain a part of Honor Flight for years to come. Special thanks also goes to Saranac Central School for donating the bus that made this project possible.

Assemblyman Michael Cashman News Release of September 1, 2026 – “We have known cuts to Medicaid and increased eligibility requirements to access coverage were coming ever since the passage of the H.R.1 bill early last year. These cuts will undoubtedly result in lowered access to routine appointments, quality care, medication, and other healthcare needs for millions of New Yorkers. The changes have already begun to put strain on our local medical providers and instilled fear in many who rely on these programs.”

“Starting in September, New Yorkers enrolled in Medicaid plans will receive notice of potential changes in coverage via mail or email. It is essential that enrollees make sure their contact information is up-to-date with Medicaid to make sure they get the most accurate information regarding their specific situation.”

“Starting on January 1, 2027, many Medicaid enrollees will have new work and eligibility reporting requirements. Enrollees will be informed as to if they need to meet these requirements. Exemptions are made for individuals who are disabled, veterans with total disabilities, pregnant or recently pregnant individuals, caregivers to disabled individuals and young children, and additional qualifiers. A full list of exempt individuals can be found online here: https://info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov/stay-covered. Enrollees will likely have to provide evidence of their exemption to renew their coverage.”

“Many enrollees will also have to verify their continued eligibility twice a year as opposed to the current once a year. Enrollees should make sure their contact information is up-to-date, especially if they have recently moved.”

“While addressing abuse and fraud in our social systems is vital, implementing these measures will cause many eligible enrollees to be unjustly kicked from coverage due to the higher likelihood of clerical errors and filing mistakes. For the vast majority of enrollees, Medicaid coverage is a lifeline between their temporary hardship and accessing essential services. Adding barriers to health care is simply unjust, especially to communities that are already experiencing hardship and difficulty accessing care.”

“These cuts will also have a direct impact on our own rural communities and our already-strained providers. Our hospitals rely on Medicaid dollars to function. When people do not have healthcare coverage, they do not go to the doctor. People will get sick. People who have preexisting conditions will go without treatment. People will inevitably die because of these cuts and the lack of access to care.”

“As of July 2026, Clinton County had roughly 19,500 residents enrolled in Medicaid, Franklin County had roughly 14,500, and Essex County 7,900. These are thousands of residents right here in the North Country that are facing major changes to and potential loss of critical health care coverage.” 

Matej Kollar, Chief Financial Officer, University of Vermont Health Network-Alice Hyde Medical Center (AHMC) and Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH), said: “In our Emergency Department and clinics, we are already seeing more patients without health insurance as a result of changes to eligibility requirements and the increased cost of health insurance. With additional changes anticipated in the coming year, we expect to see that number increase even more. These changes come at a time when rural hospitals, like CVPH, are already operating on razor thin margins.”

“Our priority has been and will always be to provide the care our community needs. We look forward to working with our elected officials to ensure the North Country continues to have accessible and affordable healthcare now and for generations to come.” 

Bill Schneider, RN, New York State Nurses Association Second Vice President and a nurse at Adirondack Medical Center, said: “As a nurse in the North Country, I see how our patients need access to quality local care to stay healthy. We care for a large number of people who rely on Medicare and Medicaid. The federal Medicaid cuts will decimate rural healthcare and our patients’ access to care. We’ve already seen hospitals cut services and propose maternal health closures in anticipation of the deeper federal cuts that are coming this winter. We urge the Trump administration to reverse course and invest in the health of our communities instead of cutting access to lifesaving care.” 

Helen Wallis, 1199SEIU Vice President for the North Country, said: “Deep Medicaid cuts have a devastating impact on our communities, hospitals, and nursing homes. We’ve already seen cuts to the healthcare workforce throughout the North Country – we don’t want to see more jobs lost as a result of last year’s H.R. 1. Access to critical medical care in our rural communities is essential to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. When access to care is limited, people will not get the quality care they need to live and thrive.”

“We need to stand together as a community to call upon our federal government to reestablish Medicaid coverage to those in need while simultaneously preventing the abuse and fraud of these systems,” Cashman said. “New York State simply cannot foot the bill that this deficit will cause. I will do everything within my power to minimize the harms the North Country feels.”

“The Constitution is clear that Congress — not the President acting alone — possesses the authority to decide whether the nation enters war,” the letter from 27 Vermont veterans and Guard family members states.

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Schools are shifting away from full novels to excerpts to prep students for state exams and accommodate lower stamina for reading.

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