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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.

Comment Policy

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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Traffic is flowing on Maiden Lane

August 17, 2026 – The Peru Water Sewer Parks Department successfully replaced a sewer line at 22 Maiden Lane today. The homeowners also replaced the sewer line leading into their house. The street is open again.

Peru Fire Station Expansion Project continues. August 17, 2026.

Run For Jon supports families who have children under 18 who are in need of serious medical care

The 36th annual Run For Jon will be held Saturday, August 29th, 5 PM at Forrence Orchards on Mannix Road in Peru. It attracts hundreds of walkers, kids fun runners and runners every year, in addition to their friends and family who attend as spectators. There are numerous door prizes for participants, donated by our generous donors.

It is also a great race, sanctioned by USA Track & Field, with some of the best runners in the Northeast participating. Over the years, the race has attracted state and national champions as well as a few Olympians.

The Run For Jon, Inc. is dedicated to supporting families in the New York counties of Clinton, Essex, and Franklin who have children under 18 in need of serious medical care. Our grassroots initiative focuses on assisting with non-medical expenses such as transportation and lodging, ensuring that families can focus on their child’s health and well-being.

Run For Jon Inc is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, EIN 45-2905801. All donations are deemed tax-deductible absent any limitations on deductibility applicable to a particular taxpayer.

Website: https://runforjon.org

Link to registration page: https://runsignup.com/Race/NY/Peru/RunForJon

Link to donation page: https://runsignup.com/Race/Donate/NY/Peru/RunForJon

Donations from sponsors or individuals are welcome!

New Police Officer Registered Apprentice Program at Clinton Community College

Five New Recruits Enrolled as Part of the New Program’s First Cohort

August 12, 2026 – The New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL), in partnership with Clinton Community College, the SUNY Plattsburgh University Police Department, the Lake Placid Police Department, the Tupper Lake Police Department, and the Essex County Sheriff’s Office, today celebrated the inaugural signing ceremony of Clinton Community College’s new Police Officer Registered Apprenticeship Program. Five new recruits signed on today as the first cohort of apprentices under the new program during a ceremony held at the Institute for Advanced Manufacturing (IAM) Building at Clinton Community College.

New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, “We need police officers. And that means we need to support the workforce development models ensuring that New York State has the highly skilled and well-trained workforce to fill those very important jobs. Governor Hochul is also committed to doing exactly that. This new registered apprenticeship program will help the recruits signing today gain the skills and real, lifetime, on-the-job experience that’s needed to keep communities safe. That is something that will benefit every single New Yorker.”

This innovative program, a partnership between the Zone 9 Police Executive, SUNY, Clinton Community College, and NYSDOL, offers a unique career pathway for aspiring officers to earn a paycheck while learning the essential, hands-on skills they need to succeed in their law enforcement careers. Clinton Community College will facilitate the 12-month program. Recruits will be employed by participating departments prior to beginning their academy training. The academy, which runs from August 17, 2026, to February 8, 2027, will be conducted at the Zone 9 Police Training Academy, located on the Clinton Community College campus, providing expanded facilities and the opportunity to earn college credits toward an AAS or BAS in fields such as Criminal Justice or Human Services.

Clinton Community College President Ken Knelly said, “The departments aren’t just participants, they are co-creators, and they’re collaborators. The academy becomes the foundation, and the apprenticeship ensures the values we teach carry forward into practice, producing officers who are more thoughtful, consistent, and confident. It also fosters peer support, shared learning, and a sense of accountability from day one, helping recruits grow together and reinforcing these values as they transition into the field. The investment in this program is important because it allows a focus on what matters most, building officers who are prepared, not just for the job, but for the people that they serve.”

SUNY Plattsburgh University Police Department Chief Patrick Rascoe said, “Today’s signing represents much more than the launch of a new academy. It represents a commitment by higher education, state government, and law enforcement to invest together in the future of policing. This academy stands as proof that when higher education, state government, and law enforcement work together toward a common goal, extraordinary things can happen. Today’s signing is not the end of that work, it’s the beginning. I have no doubt this partnership will benefit our profession and the communities we serve for many years to come.”

Lake Placid Police Department Chief Charles Dobson said, “We need to encourage young men and women to consider policing as an honorable and rewarding career. We need to show them that policing offers purpose, opportunity, and the chance to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. The apprenticeship model is an important part of that strategy, allowing departments to focus on outcomes instead of upfront costs.”

Registered Apprenticeships are a Pathway to Success

Registered apprenticeships span a wide range of industries, including building and construction, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, information technology, financial services, childcare, education, and transportation.

As of June 2026, NYSDOL supported almost 18,000 apprentices across more than 900 programs offered by more than 600 sponsors statewide. In 2025 alone, NYSDOL approved 107 new programs, 44 new sponsors, and 17 new trades.

New Yorkers interested in learning more about registered apprenticeships can visit the NYSDOL Apprenticeship Webpage. Businesses interested in sponsoring a program can learn more by visiting the NYSDOL Apprenticeship Sponsor Webpage.

About Clinton Community College

Clinton Community College is a member of the State University of New York system and home of the Institute for Advanced Manufacturing and Zone 9 Police Training Academy. Clinton offers 20 associate degree programs, six certificates, transfer pathways and advisement options, multiple non-credit professional credentials and many flexible learning options including online and evening courses. As part of the SUNY system, Clinton credits transfer seamlessly. For more information, visit them online at clinton.edu.

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Unitary America Expands Past 300 Supporters; Adding Over 130 in the Past Five Weeks

PLATTSBURGH, NY – Unitary America, led by its Leader Garrett Monette, has announced its rapid expansion to over 330 supporters, tripling in size since the beginning of April. The organization only had less than ten in early November.

Unitary America is responsible for several programs operating throughout Clinton County, including food giveaways, trash cleanups, bread giveaways, community gardens, bug box installation, and community advocacy. The organization credits this growth to the rapid roll-out of new community initiatives, its increasing frequency of events, and grassroots organizing efforts throughout Plattsburgh. Garrett Monette adds that “This success is due to the tangible, on-the-ground action that we do every day, every week, and every month. We’re helping alleviate current suffering, while advocating for long-term changes that prevent future suffering. We’re seeing an unprecedented surge that reflects the salience of our mission: putting our communities first, and leaving no resident behind.”
Unitary America is working on several new community initiatives, and is working on expanding its current programs into areas around the Plattsburgh area. “We want to triple-down on what we are currently doing. We’ve fed over 300 households, cleaned up 800 pounds of garbage, and uplifted our community in less than one year, and with only $1,000 in funding. Despite this, there’s much more than needs to be done. No one left behind. Let’s keep the momentum going,” added Monette.
Due to the surge in growth,  Unitary America is hosting an information session at the Plattsburgh Public Library on Saturday, August 15th, from 1:00-2:00 pm. “We need all those wanting to help their communities. We need do-ers, people that want to get things done. We’re neighbors helping neighbors,” Monette stated.
More information about Unitary America can be found on their website: unitaryamerica.org.
An updated event calendar can be found at unitaryamerica.org/events, updated regularly.

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR LISTINGS

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 11:00 AM TO 12:30 PM
FOOD DRIVE – Unitary America is hosting a food drive at the Plattsburgh Public Library, between the hours of 11:00 am. and 12:30 pm. All those who need groceries, bread, and any other non-perishables are welcome to attend, while supplies last. Food has been collected from donation boxes set up at local stores throughout the Plattsburgh area.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 29, 10:00 AM TO 3:00 PM
TRASH CLEANUP – Unitary America is hosting a trash cleanup, removing garbage from the Saranac River and surrounding areas, between the hours of 10:00 am and 3:00 pm. All those wanting to help protect their local environment, need volunteer experience, and want to get involved in their community are welcome to attend. All supplies will be provided.

New York State 2026-27 Hunting and Trapping Licenses on Sale

Deer Management Permits Available through October 1

Read more »

Governor announces winners of 2026 New York Wine Classic

Weis Vineyards from the Finger Lakes Wine Region Named Winery of the Year

August 10, 2026 – Governor Kathy Hochul announced the winners of the 40th Annual New York Wine Classic, a nationally recognized competition highlighting the best of New York’s wine industry. Ryan William Vineyard from the Finger Lakes earned the prestigious Governor’s Cup for their 2025 Pinot Blanc while Weis Vineyards from the Finger Lakes was awarded Winery of the Year. This is the third consecutive year and the fourth time overall that Weis Vineyards has been awarded Winery of the Year. The winners were announced this evening during a special live virtual event hosted by the New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF).

“Congratulations to Ryan William Vineyard, Weis Vineyards, and every winery who participated in this year’s Wine Classic,” Governor Hochul said. “From the vineyards of the Fingerlakes to wineries across the state, New York’s wine industry represents the very best of our agricultural heritage, innovation and craftsmanship. These award winning producers are creating exceptional products, supporting good paying jobs and helping showcase New York State as a world-class destination for wine lovers everywhere.”

The New York Wine Classic, organized by the NYWGF, is one of the most respected wine competitions in the country, highlighting the impressive range of wines produced across the state’s distinct American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) – including Lake Erie, Niagara Escarpment, Finger Lakes, Upper Hudson, Hudson River Region, Champlain Valley of New York, and Long Island. The competition recognizes the skilled winemakers, passionate growers, and regional diversity that continue to comprise New York’s wine industry and their unique varietals.

The Governor’s Cup is the Classic’s most esteemed award, recognizing the “Best of Show” of the competition, while the Winery of the Year award is presented to the winery with the best overall showing based on the level and number of awards in relation to entries. Additional honors are awarded in various categories including Best Sparkling, White, Red, Pink, Dessert, Specialty, and more.

The Best of Category winners are: Read more »

WORLD’S LARGEST BATTERY-ELECTRIC AIRCRAFT COMPLETES HISTORIC FIRST FLIGHT AT PLATTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

August 13, 2026 CLINTON COUNTY, NY Clinton County today celebrated Heart Aerospace’s announcement that the Heart X1 demonstrator successfully completed its historic first flight at Plattsburgh International Airport on Wednesday, August 12, 2026.- 

Spanning 106 feet, measuring 76 feet nose to tail and weighing more than 25,000 pounds at takeoff, the X1 is the largest battery-electric aircraft ever flown. The milestone places Plattsburgh and Clinton County at the center of a significant moment in the evolution of electric aviation.

The piloted mission lasted 27 minutes, reached an altitude of 1,100 feet above ground level and demonstrated more than one megawatt of power from the X1’s all-electric propulsion system. Powered entirely by batteries, the aircraft used approximately $5 worth of electricity during its first flight. The mission included taxi, takeoff, climb, maneuvering and landing, demonstrating all-electric flight at a scale relevant to commercial airline operations.

Heart Aerospace selected Plattsburgh International Airport for the X1 program because of its extensive airfield infrastructure, 11,750-foot concrete runway, relatively low air-traffic density and location within the North Country’s growing cluster of transportation and aerospace innovators.

“Today, the eyes of the aviation world are on Clinton County, New York,” said Clinton County Legislature Chairperson Mark R. Henry (Area 3-R, Chazy). “The first flight of the largest battery-electric aircraft in history is an extraordinary achievement for Heart Aerospace and a tremendous source of pride for Clinton County. This milestone shows that our airport is more than a transportation asset. It is a place where the future of aviation is being developed, tested and proven.”

The flight was conducted under an FAA Special Airworthiness Certificate in the Experimental Category. Before receiving authorization to begin piloted flight testing, the X1 underwent an extensive ground-testing program that included structural, propulsion and systems testing, as well as low- and high-speed taxi tests.

“This is an exciting moment for Heart Aerospace and for Clinton County,” said Clinton County Legislature Airport Committee Chairperson David G. Bezio (Area 4-D, Plattsburgh). “A great deal of work and coordination went into preparing for this flight, and I want to recognize the Heart Aerospace team, our airport staff and everyone who helped make it possible. Having a milestone of this significance take place here demonstrates the value of Plattsburgh International Airport and the opportunities it can bring to our community.”

The X1 is a full-scale demonstrator representative of Heart’s ES-30 production aircraft. It was developed to validate key technologies, aerodynamics and flight performance, as well as Heart’s organizational capabilities to design, build, test and operate an electric commercial aircraft. Heart established its X1 flight-test base at Plattsburgh International Airport as the company advanced the aircraft through ground testing, FAA review and final flight preparations.

“Supporting an experimental flight program of this scale requires tremendous coordination, professionalism and attention to safety,” said Plattsburgh International Airport Director Patrick Sharrow. “Our airport team has been proud to work alongside Heart Aerospace and its flight-test team throughout this process. Seeing the X1 take flight from Plattsburgh International Airport is an unforgettable moment and a powerful demonstration of what this facility is capable of supporting. With additional hangar, industrial and testing space available, we are well positioned to support other companies working to build the future of aviation.”

The milestone further establishes Clinton County as a destination for next-generation aviation and transportation technology. Heart Aerospace joins a growing group of innovative companies and institutions utilizing the region’s infrastructure, workforce and strategic proximity to major United States and Canadian markets.

“This is exactly the kind of opportunity we envisioned as we worked to build Clinton County’s reputation as a hub for advanced transportation and sustainable aviation,” said Molly Ryan, Executive Director of the County of Clinton Industrial Development Agency and Clinton County Director of Economic Development. “Heart Aerospace could have chosen locations around the world for this milestone, and the fact that this historic flight took place in Plattsburgh speaks volumes about our airport, our regional assets and the relationships that made it possible. We are also developing the talent aviation companies need through programs such as Clinton Community College’s Mechanical Technology A.A.S. degree, helping ensure that companies locating here have access to both world-class infrastructure and a skilled workforce. Our goal now is to build upon this achievement, support Heart’s continued success and ensure that today’s global attention creates additional opportunities for Clinton County.”

Heart Aerospace is developing the ES-30, a conventional fixed-wing, 30-seat hybrid-electric regional airliner, for FAA Part 25 certification. The company is targeting entry into service in 2031 and has received customer commitments from major air carriers including United Airlines, Air Canada and JSX.

About Plattsburgh International Airport Read more »

Businesses brace for impact as Trump’s 50% tariff on Canada draws closer

Click here for the Vermont Public story 

“Plattsburgh City Police Department’s 2″d Community Bike & E-Mobility Safety Forum”

When: September 10th, 2026 at 6:00pm
Where: Durkee Street @ the Riverside Pavilion {Old Farmers market}

The Plattsburgh Police Department is excited to invite you to our 2nd Community Bike & E-Mobility Safety Forum, happening in just one month! Whether you ride a traditional bicycle, an E-bike, a scooter,or any other mobility device, this interactive session is packed with practical tips for riders of all ages.

What to expect:
Clear breakdowns of right-of-way rules and NYS laws for E-bike classifications.
Best practices for safely sharing the road with pedestrians, drivers, and other riders.
Walkthroughs of real-world scenarios.
A friendly on bese we proper lina and base bike ma strance
Bring your wheels! This event we will be adding a group ride and a fun obstacle course where you can test
your skills!

Special Perk:
All attendees will receive a “Friends of Downtown Plattsburgh” bike ticket! Redeem it for exclusive deals at participating downtown businesses– just look for the green signs in their shop windows.

Let’s work together to keep our community safe. See you there!
Authorized release by; Chief Jarrod Trombley

PLATTSBURGH CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT DATE OF RELEASE: August 14, 2026

Community Alert: Fraudulent Online Rental Opportunities

Criminals are posting fake rental listings online to steal your money and personal information. These scams often appear on social media, classified sites, and rental platforms. Scammers copy real photos and details, underprice the property, pressure you to act fast, and demand payment before you ever see the place.

How to Identify Fake Rental Listings

Watch for these common red flags:

The rent is far below market rate for the neighborhood or similar properties. If it looks too good to be true, it almost always is.

Pressure to pay or decide immediately — “Someone else is interested,” “You must send a deposit today to hold it,” or similar urgency tactics.

Demand for money before you view the property or sign a lease (application fees, deposits, first month’s rent).

Payment only by untraceable methods: wire transfer, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or apps like Venmo/Zelle/Cash App before any legitimate agreement.

The “landlord” refuses to meet in person or show the property, often claiming to be out of town, overseas, or unavailable.

Requests for sensitive personal information early — Social Security number, bank details, driver’s license copies, or credit-score screenshots before you have agreed to rent.

Inconsistencies when you research: The same address listed at different prices or by different contacts; the property appears for sale instead of rent; photos reverse-image-search to other listings or real-estate sites.

Poor communication — vague answers about the property, grammar/spelling issues, or only texting/emailing.

PLATTSBURGH POLICE DEPARTMENT Jarrod Trombley,45 PINE STREET PLATTSBURGH, NY 12901, 518-563-3411

518-566-9000 FAX

Chief of Police

Protect yourself:

Search the exact address online. Read more »

CCIDA RELEASES FINAL BLUFF POINT CAMPUS FEASIBILITY STUDY

August 14, 2026 – Clinton County, NY – The County of Clinton Industrial Development Agency (CCIDA) has released the final feasibility study for the future redevelopment of the Clinton Community College property at Bluff Point. Prepared by CPL, the study examines the physical condition, infrastructure, environmental characteristics, and long-term redevelopment potential of the approximately 104-acre campus overlooking Lake Champlain. The final report was positively received by both the CCIDA Board of Directors and the Clinton County Legislature.

“This study gives us a thoughtful and realistic starting point for considering the future of an incredibly important property,” said Molly Ryan, Executive Director of the County of Clinton Industrial Development Agency. “The final concept reflects extensive feedback from stakeholders, community members, economic development partners, and county leaders. That input resulted in a stronger, more flexible plan that can be pursued in phases and adjusted as additional information becomes available.”

The study finds that the property is physically suitable for mixed-use redevelopment. Its existing infrastructure, natural setting, accessible utility corridors, and opportunities for adaptive reuse provide a strong foundation for future investment.

“Our analysis confirmed that the Bluff Point campus has strong potential for mixed-use redevelopment, supported by its existing infrastructure, natural setting, adaptable buildings, and proximity to regional transportation assets,” said Andrew Kosa, Principal at CPL. “The final framework was deliberately designed to be flexible and phased. The feedback received throughout the process helped refine the vision into a more practical roadmap that can respond to market conditions, infrastructure capacity, available funding, and future development partnerships.”

The conceptual framework, known as Voyage Champlain, envisions four complementary areas that could incorporate housing, recreation, hospitality, cultural programming, education, and community gathering spaces. Potential elements include:

  • Workforce and market-rate housing
    • Townhomes and residential development
    • All-season recreational amenities and trails
    • Adaptive reuse of existing campus buildings
    • Community, cultural, and educational spaces
    • Hospitality, dining, and complementary commercial uses
    • Preservation of open space, historic character, and views of Lake Champlain

The framework is intentionally flexible and is not a final development plan or a commitment to construct every element shown in the study. Rather, it provides a roadmap for evaluating opportunities, attracting potential partners, and making informed decisions about the property over time.

“This is a unique property with tremendous history and potential,” said Clinton County Legislature Chairman Mark Henry (R-Area 3, Chazy) “The Legislature’s positive reception of the report is an important step, but we also recognize that successful redevelopment will require careful planning, realistic financial analysis, and strong public and private partnerships. This study provides us with a foundation for that work. We have an opportunity here and we must be prepared to seize it.”

The recommended approach emphasizes phased implementation based on market demand, infrastructure capacity, funding availability, and the interest of qualified development partners. Housing is identified as a potential early component that could establish activity on the property and support future recreational, commercial, hospitality, and cultural uses.

“The revised study offers a much more practical and responsive vision for the property Economic Development Committee Chair Joshua Kretser (D-Area 9, Plattsburgh). “It reflects the feedback that was provided throughout the process and recognizes that redevelopment must happen thoughtfully, in phases, and with a clear understanding of market demand and infrastructure needs. The committee looks forward to continuing that work as additional information and potential partnerships are developed.”

Before any major redevelopment decisions are made, the report recommends several additional steps, including:

  • Detailed utility and infrastructure analysis
    • Environmental review and site investigations
    • Market and financial feasibility studies
    • Continued community and stakeholder engagement
    • Identification of public, private, and philanthropic partners
    • Development of an appropriate governance and implementation structure

“We’re looking forward to seeing the Bluff Point redevelopment take shape and the potential it has to help address some of the needs within our community,” said Kristy Kennedy, Vice President of Marketing, Operations & Business Development at the North Country Chamber of Commerce. “The revised framework appropriately combines vision with flexibility, providing a foundation for continued analysis and partnership while allowing the ultimate direction of the property to respond to real market opportunities.”

The study represents the beginning of a longer planning and redevelopment process. Future decisions will be informed by additional technical analysis, market conditions, potential partnerships, available funding, and continued input from county leaders and the community.

“The release of this report does not mark the end of the planning process. It gives us a responsible path forward,” Ryan said. “Our next steps will focus on validating the market, understanding infrastructure needs, exploring partnerships, and continuing to engage the Legislature and the community. Any future development will need to be financially sustainable and provide a clear long-term benefit to Clinton County.”

The final Clinton Community College Bluff Point Campus Feasibility Study and concept materials are available at:

https://www.clintoncountyida.com/work-with-us/featured-projects/p/item/2811/clinton-community-college-feasibility-study

St. Augustine’s Community Meal/Soup Kitchen Menu for Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Chicken and Biscuits 

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!

St. Augustine‘s Community Meal/Soup Kitchen menu for Wednesday, August 12, 2026

St. Augustine’s Community Meal/Soup Kitchen Menu for Wednesday, August 12, 2026.

Ravioli
Salad
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!

Wednesday Maiden Lane Road Closure Cancelled

  • Town of Peru W/S is cancelling the road closure on Maiden Lane. 

    We will be rescheduling it at a later date.

Search for armed and dangerous murder suspect expands to Plattsburgh

Homicide suspect is known to frequent Clinton County and the Plattsburgh area

Click here for the Sun Community News story 

New affordable multi-family housing opens in Rutland

Click here for the vtdigger story 

UVM Health says big change is afoot — but is it enough to balance the budget?

“Already, the network has proposed $140,000,000 in cuts to expenses such as administrative staff, clinician time and supply costs.”

Click here for the vtdigger story 

Trump administration moves to deregulate Head Start, opening door for sweeping change

Click here for the Vermont Public story 

Peru Town Board Monday, August 10 Public Hearing and Meeting Agendas and Resolutions

PUBLIC HEARING AGENDA & REGULAR MEETING AGENDA FOR AUGUST 10 2026

Agenda – Public Hearing, August 10, 2026 @ 5:45 p.m. 

Local Law #1 of 2026 

TO ESTABLISH RESIDENCY REQUIREments FOR THE DEPuTY TOWN CLERK 

1. Call the meeting to Order 

2. Pledge Of Allegiance

3. Roll Call 

4. Motion: To Open the Public Hearing 

5. Discussion: Proposed Local Law #1 of 2026 – “A Local Law to change the Residency Requirements of the Deputy Town Clerk

6. Motion: To Close Public Hearing 

7. Motion: Adjourn 

Patrick Leahy Lake Champlain Basin Program to Support Cultural Heritage and Artist-in-Residence Initiatives

Grand Isle, VT – The Patrick Leahy Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP), in coordination with NEIWPCC, offers funding for projects that interpret the region’s natural and cultural resources, as well as Artist-in-Residence programs that engage the public through the arts.

Interpretive projects will further the goals of the Champlain Valley National Heritage Partnership (CVNHP) and may fall into one of two categories: the CVNHP Special Program or Core Grant Program. Special Program grants are intended to support multi-jurisdictional or regional initiatives that interpret a “confluence” of any of the CVNHP’s three interpretive themes: Making of Nations, Corridor of Commerce, and Conservation & Community.

CVNHP Core Grant projects may highlight the above interpretive themes, engage youth in local heritage, support museum and library collections, or sponsor internships at museums and historic sites.

Artist-in-Residence projects will recruit artists to highlight the basin’s science, culture, and history to build greater public understanding and appreciation.

Grant Program Award Amount
CVNHP Special Program $10,000 to $40,000
Core Grant Program: “Confluence” Interpretive Theme Grants Up to $10,000
Core Grant Program: Internship Grants Up to $10,000
Core Grant Program: Collections Grants Up to $10,000
Core Grant Program: Local Heritage Grants Up to $5,000 (local); up to $10,000 (regional / multi-jurisdictional)
Artist-in-Residence Up to $40,000

“Both the cultural heritage and Artist-in-Residence grant programs exemplify one of our guiding principles: that appreciation leads to understanding, which leads to greater stewardship,” said Jim Brangan, Interim NEIWPCC Division Director of Lake Champlain Programs. “Through creative projects that interpret our connection to this region, partners are bringing more people into the shared effort to protect and restore the Lake Champlain watershed.”

Applicants to CVNHP grant programs will first submit a project pre-proposal and a subset of applicants will be invited to submit a full proposal for funding consideration. Pre-proposals are due on October 16, 2026, at 5:00 p.m., and awarded projects are anticipated to begin work in December 2027.

Applicants to the Artist-in-Residence grant program will submit full proposals, due on September 29, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Awarded projects are targeted to begin work in February 2027. An additional RFP for 2027 Artist-in-Residence projects in Québec will be issued separately.

The CVNHP and Artist-in-Residence grant opportunities are supported by funds awarded to NEIWPCC by the U.S. National Park Service and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, respectively, on behalf of the Lake Champlain Basin Program.

The CVNHP was established by the U.S. Congress in 2006 to recognize the importance of the historical, cultural, and recreational resources of the region and to assist efforts to preserve, protect, and interpret those resources. The National Heritage Area also works to enhance the quality of the tourism economy and to encourage working partnerships among state, provincial, and local governments and non-profit organizations in New York, Québec, and Vermont.

The 17th annual CVNHP International Summit will be held in Burlington, Vermont on September 23, 2026. While attendance is not required, the summit hosts a Foundant primer and offers networking opportunities to develop competitive projects for this funding opportunity. Please register at this link.

The proposal guidelines, list of eligible entities, submission requirements, and an electronic submission application link are available below:

For more information about CVNHP and Artist-in-Residence grants, please contact Jim Brangan at jbrangan@lcbp.org.

North Country at Work: Growing flowers with love in the Champlain Valley

Ilyssa Rae Brown is growing over 50 varieties of flowers: zinnias, sunflowers, celosia, snapdragons, calendula…

Click here for the NCPR story 

Locals learn more about the APA’s new headquarters planned in Saranac Lake

Click here for the NCPR story 

Peru School Board meets Tuesday, August 11

Regular Monthly Meeting August 2026

Peru CSD Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the High School Community Room. It is anticipated that an executive session will take place immediately following the 5:30 PM start, and that the Board will reconvene for open public session business at approximately 6:00 PM. The meeting will be recorded and will be available on the District’s website at www.perucsd.org.

The meeting is open to the public and current District, County, State and Federal safety procedures and protocols will be followed.

Currently, two (2) public comment opportunities are planned as follows:

First public comment: Related to items on the agenda. Comments are limited to three (3) minutes per speaker.

Second public comment: Comments are limited to three (3) minutes per speaker.

Individuals who are unable to attend the regular meeting in person may submit public comments by emailing perucomments@perucsd.org no later than noon on Tuesday, August 11. Online comments are also subject to the conditions stated above.

Anticipated topics include:

  • Bus Bids

  • Personnel Appointments

  • Start of School Update

  • Revised Academic Calendar

The complete agenda will be available via BoardDocs on the District’s website (www.perucsd.org).