The Peru Gazette

Mexican Beef & Rice Skillet 

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!

The aviation company wants to build a Vermont empire. 

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Harkness, NY June 25, 2026 – Eighteen years ago, Art Ford dug his shovel into a hillside known as Serenity Garden on Clintonville Road, about 1.4 miles west of Harkness four-corners. Last Sunday, June 21, Ford opened a new chapter in the garden’s history by moving Serenity Garden to Clintonville, adjacent to the Methodist Church Thrift Store and in sight of the Ausable Valley School District offices. 

Last Sunday, Ford erected a sign at the Garden’s former location that reads: “No Trespassing, Due to extreme theft and vandalism, Serenity Garden has moved to Clintonville. The Food Stable will be at the Serenity Garden Greenhouse. Hope to see you there. Art.” 

Ford explained, “We started fixing the garden up for the spring. We’ve always lost stuff over the years. These last few years have been worse. This year, they really ramped it up. When we put plants down by the Cross, in two days they took almost every plant we put in.”

Ford said, “No matter what happens in your life, you’re going to have things happen to you. You’ll have things on the good side and on the bad side. If you dwell on the bad side, you’ll miss the good side. It’s not like the Garden has ended. The Cross is here, food staple is running, flowers are here, the angel is here, the same as always. People can still get involved in this garden and become a part of it.” 

Ford said people donated virtually all the flowers and hardware in his old garden, adding, “They want you to make something out of it. I never know what I’m doing. The Lord’s always doing his thing. It’s not like it’s a bad thing for the garden to move. It was time to move it anyway, to make something cool.” 

A logger by profession, Ford is using an excavator and brute strength to make space for a new Serenity Garden. A high rock wall made from rocks he unearthed with the excavator is a testament to the hard work he’s put in. People have already donated hand-painted rocks. There are a few changes: hanging plants are for sale in a greenhouse. Nearby perennials surround the Cross and there’s a beautiful mountain view in the background.  Beginning on Monday, June 29,  Art plans to be selling fresh cake donuts from his food truck. He also hopes to have his soft ice cream machine operational soon. 

The word “serenity” is defined as a state of calm, peace, and untroubledness. Speak to Art Ford, you’ll sense that state, and it will likely rub off on you. Please react to this story positively. That’s the reaction Art wants you to have. 

Click here to read our September 1, 2024 story on Serenity Garden  

Click here to read our September 4, 2021 story on Serenity Garden

Click here to read our May 19, 2014 story on Serenity Garden 

June 24, 2026 – The City of Plattsburgh is proud to announce that this year’s Fourth of July Parade Marshals are G&G Tire and Warren Tire, two longtime North Country businesses whose dedication to customer service, community involvement, and local pride have made a lasting impact on the region.

G&G Tire

For more than 60 years, G&G Tire has been a trusted part of the Plattsburgh community, building lasting relationships with generations of local customers. As a family-owned business spanning three generations, G&G Tire’s longevity reflects not only business success but also a deep commitment to the people and families it has proudly served throughout the region. For the Gonyo family, the business represents both a family legacy and a longstanding connection to the City of Plattsburgh.

Over the years, G&G Tire has celebrated numerous milestones, from expanding its operations and adapting to changing times to successfully transitioning leadership across three generations. Among the company’s proudest accomplishments are the relationships it has built within the community, taking pride in knowing many customers by name and supporting local organizations and events whenever possible. These achievements reflect a legacy of trust, service, and dedication that has endured for decades.

Being selected as a Fourth of July Parade Marshal is a meaningful honor for the Gonyo family. They view the recognition as a reflection not only of their family’s commitment to the community, but also of the loyal customers, dedicated employees, and countless supporters who have contributed to the company’s success over the last six decades. Looking ahead, G&G Tire hopes to inspire future generations to stay involved, support local businesses, and continue the tradition of giving back that helps make Plattsburgh such a special place to live, work, and raise a family.

Warren Tire

Founded in 1987, Warren Tire has spent nearly four decades serving the North Country while remaining committed to the values that have guided the business from the beginning. As the company transitions into its second generation of family leadership, its focus remains firmly on putting employees and customers first.

With more than 30 employees and a loyal customer base built over the years, Warren Tire credits its continued success to the support of the local community. The business takes great pride in maintaining and improving its downtown Plattsburgh properties, helping contribute to the appearance and vitality of the city’s historic downtown.

Warren Tire is also known for its commitment to giving back. Most recently, the company partnered in the creation of the “You Matter” mural on its Broad Street building, a project promoting mental health awareness and encouraging those in need to seek support. As the business approaches its 40th anniversary in 2027, Warren Tire remains grateful for the community that has supported its growth and success over the years.

The company also encourages residents to continue supporting local businesses, recognizing that the success of businesses throughout downtown Plattsburgh and the surrounding area depends on the continued support of the community. Warren Tire extends its sincere thanks to its loyal customers who have helped make nearly four decades of service possible.

Together, G&G Tire and Warren Tire represent the hardworking, community-minded spirit that helps make Plattsburgh such a special place to live and work. Through their commitment to serving local residents, supporting community initiatives, and investing in the future of the North Country, both businesses have made lasting contributions to our community.

The City of Plattsburgh is honored to recognize G&G Tire and Warren Tire as the 2026 Fourth of July Parade Marshals and thanks them for their many years of service to the North Country.

Mayor Wendell Hughes says, “The Fourth of July is one of Plattsburgh’s most cherished traditions, bringing our community together for a day of celebration, entertainment, and patriotic pride. As we commemorate America’s 250th birthday, we are honored to recognize G&G Tire and Warren Tire as this year’s Parade Marshals and thank them for the lasting impact they have made on our community.”

(PLATTSBURGH- June 24 2026) – Our nation will celebrate its 250th birthday this year, and what better way to spend your Fourth of July by joining us in Downtown Plattsburgh at the annual Fourth of July Celebration on Saturday July 4th 2026! This year’s celebration will feature a parade, free concert, downtown food court and a spectacular fireworks show!

This year’s Fourth of July celebration holds special significance as communities across the nation commemorate America 250, marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. As our nation reflects on two and a half centuries of history, freedom, and civic pride, the City of Plattsburgh is proud to celebrate this milestone with a day of patriotic festivities, community traditions, and recognition of the local organizations and businesses that help make our community strong.

Schedule of Events

The Trinity Park food court will be open at 12:30PM and feature local food trucks and vendors such as Love, Peace Grilled Cheese, Cousins Maine Lobster, Tammy’s Lunch Box and much more! The Fourth of July parade starts at 2:30PM and will showcase over 50 floats including the North Country Honor Flight, firetrucks and racecars, dance performances and more! The free concert at the Macdonough Park bandstand  will kick off at 5:30PM and the evening will close out with a fireworks display immediately following the performance, at approximately 9:30PM, viewable from Downtown Plattsburgh.

Free Concert at the MacDonough Park Bandstand
Enjoy an evening of genre-blending music at MacDonough Park!

At 5:30 PM, kick off the night with Joselyn & The Sweet Compression, a Kentucky-based soul and funk band known for their powerful vocals, tight horn section, and high-energy performances.

Headlining at 7:30 PM is SHEBAD, a Canadian indie soul and alternative R&B group blending jazz, neo-soul, and electronic influences into a captivating and genre-defying sound.

Bring a chair, gather your friends, and enjoy this free night of live music under the summer sky at MacDonough Park!

Details on Parade Registration:

Space is limited, but floats, vehicles and walking groups are encouraged to sign up until the deadline of 4:00PM Thursday June 25th 2026. Local businesses, schools and all community groups can sign up by completing the online form which can be found at www.discoverplattsburgh.com/events or on the City’s Facebook page. For more information on signing up or to volunteer, email events@cityofplattsburgh-ny.gov or call 518-536-7642.

Event Accessibility

Accessibility and inclusivity are important aspects of the Fourth parade so that all residents of Plattsburgh can enjoy the festivities. There will be a designated Accessibility Tent located on the North Lawn of City Hall. This area will provide an unobstructed view of the parade for folks who are wheelchair users or have mobility needs. In addition to the Accessibility Tent, a designated Quiet Zone will be established in front of North Country Home Services (151 Bridge Street) at the corner of Bridge and Jay Street. This area is designated for families and children with auditory sensitivities who require a quiet area to view the parade. Parade participants will not be playing music, blowing horns or sirens in this area.

Other Event details

Thanks to our event sponsors; Schluter Systems, Della Auto Group, Micro Bird Inc, UFirst Federal Credit Union, Dannemora Federal Credit Union, Norsk Titanium, Stafford Owens, Champlain National Bank, Happy Camper Pediatric Dentistry, and Hall Communications for helping to make this event possible. This event is free and public washrooms will be available in Trinity Park behind the Veterans Monument. Parade routes, road closures and all other details about the Fourth Celebration will be posted on www.discoverplattsburgh.com/events.

Kathaleen Kelly Cutone’s life as a skater has led to the upcoming Lake Placid Figure Skating Championships, where she plays an important role.

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Paul Smiths, N.Y. , June 24, 2026 News Release – Assemblyman Michael S. Cashman (D-Plattsburgh) hosted Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie (D-Bronx) at the Paul Smith’s Adirondack Watershed Institute on Wednesday as part of the Speaker’s annual state tour. During the visit, Speaker Heastie and Assemblyman Cashman announced $1 million for the Adirondack Watershed Institute to acquire additional modernized research and water testing equipment.

“It was an honor to host Speaker Heastie in Paul Smith’s today,” Cashman said. “I am thrilled to share that the Adirondack Watershed Institute will be receiving $1 million to advance their incredible public health and safety work. The Institute does great year-round research that supports the safety of drinking water throughout the Adirondacks as well as the environment at large. The freshwater lakes and rivers of the Adirondacks are some of our most important resources, and the Institute’s work protecting these waterways is critical to protecting our communities long-term. I am proud to have been able to showcase their incredible work, and I thank the Speaker for the $1 million investment to support their acquisition of new research equipment.” Read more »

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Nearly Half a Million Dollars in New Funding Will Expand the NYC Hotline’s Capacity To Connect Callers with Abortion Providers and Support Services

NYC, June 24, 2026 – Today, on the anniversary of the Supreme Court’s decision in ‘Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization’, which sharply restricted access to abortion nationwide, Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani announced that the New York State Department of Health and the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene are investing $495,000 to expand the New York City Abortion Access Hub’s referral network. The expansion will allow the Hub to connect callers with a broader network of abortion providers and support organizations outside the five boroughs, helping more people access reproductive health care regardless of where they live.

“As we commemorate four years since the Supreme Court’s disastrous Dobbs decision, New York is sending a clear message to the rest of the country: We’re not going to let Washington Republicans take us backwards,” Governor Hochul said. “Thanks to our support, we are expanding the reach of this vital resource so more people have access to safe reproductive health care.”

New York City Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani said, “Four years ago, the disastrous Dobbs decision stripped away a fundamental right and put reproductive health care out of reach for millions of Americans across this country. Since then, New York has led the fight to protect abortion care. On this anniversary, we are expanding the successful Abortion Access Hub so that anyone seeking care can more easily find it. Together with New York State, we are strengthening a lifeline that connects people to abortion care, medication, transportation, lodging and support. Because abortion is health care. And health care is a human right.”

New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “New York State will continue to fight to protect access to abortion care and reproductive healthcare for anyone in need of these vital services, despite ongoing politically motivated efforts to remove these hard-fought rights. Our partnership with New York City and the expansion of the Abortion Access Hub enables New York State to further protect these fundamental rights and remain a safe harbor for anyone seeking care.”

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Peru, NY, June 23, 2026 – Primary elections typically attract few voters. That wasn’t true in Peru, where ballots  cast outnumbered any other Clinton County district. 

Absentee and Early Votes are not included in the totals that follow.  

In the competitive race to replace Elise Stefanik in the 21st Congressional District, Peru’s Republicans voted: 

Robert Smullen – 118 

Anthony Constantino – 152

Peru Democrats voted: 

Stuart J. Amoriell – 89 

Blake Gendebian – 106

471 ballots were cast at St. Augustine’s Parish Center. Combined with 153 Absentee and Early ballots, 624 voters cast ballots.

Peru, NY , June 23, 2026 – Democrat and Republican Party members are eligible to vote in today’s primary. As of 8:45 a.m. about 50 Peru voters had cast ballot at St. Augustine’s Parish Center. Voters will determine the party Congressional candidates for the November election. The Polls are open until 9 p.m.

Sample ballots for each party.

ALTONA, N.Y., June 22, 2026  — Tucked away in the scenic countryside of northern Clinton County, Feinberg Park Campground offers visitors a chance to experience one of the Adirondack Coast’s hidden gems.

Following recent improvements to campground facilities and infrastructure, the Town of Altona is inviting campers, families, outdoor enthusiasts, and travelers to discover a destination that combines outdoor recreation, local history, and small-town charm. Located just minutes from the Canadian border and a short drive from Plattsburgh, Feinberg Park features wooded campsites, playgrounds, sports courts, open green spaces, and convenient on-site food service, all set within a peaceful natural setting.

In 2024, the park expanded its recreational offerings with the addition of a walking trail that winds through the property, providing opportunities for exercise, wildlife viewing, and a closer look at the area’s natural beauty. The trail has quickly become a favorite feature for both campers and local residents.

History lovers will also find something special at Feinberg Park. The property is home to the remains of the historic McGregor Powerhouse and hydroelectric dam, an impressive early twentieth-century engineering project built along the Little Chazy River. The stone ruins stand as a reminder of the region’s industrial heritage and create a unique backdrop for visitors exploring or staying in the park.

“Feinberg Park offers so much more than a place to camp,” said Brady Smart, interim Town Supervisor. “Whether you’re looking to enjoy the outdoors, walk the trails, learn about local history, grab a bite to eat, or simply spend quality time with family and friends, there’s something here for everyone. We’re proud to continue investing in this community asset and welcoming visitors to experience everything Altona has to offer.”

From weekend campers and seasonal guests to history enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers, Feinberg Park offers an affordable, family-friendly escape where nature, recreation, and history come together in one memorable setting. As travelers increasingly seek authentic outdoor experiences, Feinberg Park continues to stand out as a place to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy the beauty of New York’s North Country.

Reservations for campsites and seasonal stays are available through the Town of Altona.

For more information or to book a stay, visit www.townaltonany.gov/feinberg-park-campground.

Jessica Wescott

Patient’s DAISY Award nomination highlights nurse’s lasting impact

 Elizabethtown, NY – Every other week, Donna Haynes settles in for another infusion at University of Vermont Health Network – Elizabethtown Community Hospital – a routine that has become part of her life for more than a year and a half.

The visits can be long. The questions don’t always come all at once. And like many patients managing ongoing treatment, Haynes has learned that what happens in between appointments matters just as much as the care she receives while she’s there.

It was in those moments – the questions that linger, the need for reassurance and the search for answers – that one nurse began to stand out: Jessica Wescott, RN.

“Jessica has gone out of her way to educate me on ways to improve my quality of life,” Haynes says. “If she doesn’t know the answer to my questions, she always finds the time to gather information and report the answer to me the same day, even if it’s a phone call later.”

For Haynes, it’s that follow-through that makes a difference – care that doesn’t end when the appointment does. It’s an important part of building relationships with infusion patients that often grow over weeks, months and sometimes years.

Haynes says she’s also noticed how Wescott shows up for others.

“I’ve watched Jessica with her fellow co-workers, and she is always willing to lend a hand where needed,” Haynes says. Colleagues say Wescott brings a listening ear and steady support to every patient she sees.

Wescott’s approach – combining knowledge, compassion and a willingness to go the extra step – is what led Haynes to nominate her for the DAISY Award, a national recognition honoring nurses who make a meaningful difference in the lives of their patients.

“Jessica has a broad range of knowledge and willingness to go above and beyond,” Haynes adds. “I feel she deserves the DAISY Award.”

Wescott was honored with the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses during a surprise ceremony with her colleagues earlier this month. During the award presentation, she received a certificate commending her as an extraordinary nurse. Tate-Gutierrez, like all honorees, also received a DAISY Award pin and a beautiful and meaningful sculpture called “A Healer’s Touch,” which is hand-cared by artists of the Shona Tribe in Zimbabwe.

Elizabethtown Community Hospital launched the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses in 2022 to recognize and reward licensed nurses for making a meaningful difference in the lives of their patients. A nomination form can be filled out online at UVMHealth.org. Nurses may be nominated by patients, families and colleagues.  A committee reviews nominations and awards a deserving nurse each quarter.

The award is part of the DAISY Foundation’s mission to recognize the extraordinary, compassionate nursing care they provide patients and families every day. The DAISY Foundation is a national not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System). The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families. More information is available atDAISYfoundation.org.

At a Board of Regents meeting last Monday, state officials proposed eliminating credit-based diploma requirements.

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The Effort Brings Together Leaders from Government, Business, Sports and Community Organizations to Assess the Potential of Bringing the Olympic Flame Back to New York State

Albany, June 22, 2026 – Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the formation of the Lake Placid-New York City Olympic & Paralympic Winter Games Exploratory Committee, a statewide effort tasked with evaluating the feasibility of a future Winter Games concept linking Lake Placid’s Olympic legacy with New York City’s global platform. The committee will assess whether a modern, regionally coordinated Winter Games model-built around existing venues, sustainability, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement could support the State’s broader economic, tourism, infrastructure, and regional development goals.

“The time is now to return the Olympic flame back to New York,” Governor Hochul said. “Milano Cortina showcased the immense possibility that comes with a dual city Olympic Games. It’s clear we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build on Lake Placid’s Olympic legacy, New York City’s global platform, and the strengths that make our State unique. That’s why I’ve assembled some of the best and the brightest in sports, government and community leadership to take the steps necessary to ensure New York is in the best possible position to make the dream of a Lake Placid-New York City Olympic & Paralympic Winter Games a reality.”

About the Exploratory Committee Read more »

John Bingham, US Navy, 1961-1969, Vietnam

John felt a duty to serve, following the example of two uncles—one an admiral and the other a physician who served in Korea.

Originally hoping to become a submariner, he was unable to pass the pressure test required for submarine training. Instead, he attended Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island, later spending a year in graduate studies focused on defense intelligence and Arabic in preparation for a diplomatic assignment.

For two years, John served aboard an ocean-going minesweeper, a non-magnetic warship designed to locate and destroy naval mines in deep waters. He described it as “a wooden ship with iron men,” where every piece of iron had to be carefully tracked.

His final assignment in 1968 involved intelligence operations in the Mediterranean, monitoring Soviet naval activity. He also carried the disappointment of being unable to reach the USS Pueblo before its capture. Awarded the Naval Commendation Medal, John reflects that warfare is awful and demands immense sacrifice. 

Asked if he would serve again, his answer is simple: “Yes—but I’d do it better.”

Bernard Gwinn, US Navy, 1971-1977, Vietnam

Bernie’s father was in the US Navy, one uncle was in the US Marines and two uncles were in the US Army. In April of 1971, Bernie was in the early enlistment program. For the first two year of his marriage, he was gone 15 out of 24 months.

Bernie was a hull technician (ship fitter) and damage control man, being responsible for the watertight integrity of the ship. In 1972, Bernie was assigned to the USS Edward McDonnell and was one of five hull technicians on the ship. He was on the ship for 3 years and was only sick once as he knew what not to eat!

Bernie wanted to retire from the military so after two years of inactive service with the Navy, he joined the Army. In Fort Drumm, Watertown, he was a heavy vehicle operator, drove a deuce and a half and got supplies and rations for the field.

One of Bernie’s best memories was when he crossed the artic ocean and got his “blue nose”. During that US Navy artic cruise, he got to go on a Dutch ship and eat their food and drink their beer. Read more »