Story explores idealism vs reality 

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Elizabethtown, NY, March 23, 2026  –  For anyone recovering from an injury or illness, getting therapy at the right time can make all the difference. When care is close by and appointments are available, patients can regain strength, independence and confidence sooner. That’s why University of Vermont Health Network – Elizabethtown Community Hospital opened a new outpatient rehabilitation center today at 78 Park Street.

Hospital officials say the new space – more than double the size of the former rehab area at Elizabethtown Community Health Center – gives patients earlier access to care, increased privacy and advanced technology normally unavailable in many rural settings.

“With expanded space and state-of-the-art technology, we’re raising the standard of rehabilitation available in our region,” says Bob Ortmyer, hospital president. “For a century, Elizabethtown Community Hospital has brought essential health care closer to home. Today’s opening is a continuation of that legacy.” 

Meeting a Growing Need

Rehab visits at Elizabethtown Community Hospital have increased steadily, reaching nearly 10,500 visits last year, putting the previous location at almost 100% capacity. The number of visits could surpass 13,000 per year by 2029. Even as the region’s overall population is projected to dip slightly in the next three years, the 65+ population – those most likely to need rehabilitation – is expected to grow by nearly 10%, and they already account for more than half of rehab visits.

The new facility is expected to reduce wait times by approximately 10%, thanks to more treatment rooms, expanded scheduling flexibility and plans to add additional therapists as demand continues to grow.

“The demand is there right now, and it’s only increasing as our population ages,” explains Bill Doherty, Director of Rehabilitation. “This new facility gives us the capacity and the setting we need – not just for today’s patients, but for the growing number of people who will rely on us in the years ahead.” 

A Space Designed for Healing

Inside the building, patients will find:

• 11 private treatment rooms
• A 5,700‑square‑foot open gym filled with natural light
• A team of 10 physical, occupational and speech therapists provide comprehensive, coordinated care for patients of all ages
• Expanded services for orthopedic, neurologic, sports injury, pelvic health, vestibular, lymphedema, cardiac and pulmonary rehab

They’ll also be able to use advanced technology like the AlterG anti‑gravity treadmill, LiteGait system and Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) therapy. These tools help people move, rebuild strength and return to daily life sooner – all in a setting designed around comfort, safety and results. Additionally, the center supports cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation.

“What excites us most is what this means for our patients,” Doherty adds. “Every piece of this space was designed with them in mind. With the technology and room we have now, we can guide people through recovery in ways that are safer, more effective and more personalized than ever. It’s a level of care our community deserves – right here at home.” 

A Community Effort – With Gratitude to Donors and Leaders

The project is a $9.5 million investment. A majority of the funding, $6.5 million, comes from the New York State Health Care Facility Transformation Program. Hospital support and generous community donors covered the remaining cost. Elizabethtown Community Hospital recognizes its long-standing partnership with PC Construction and E4H Architecture, whose experience in rural health care brought the design to life. And hospital officials are grateful for the support of local and state leaders who champion investments that improve access to care for the North Country.

Temporary donor plaques will be on display, with permanent recognition to be installed in time for the Community Open House on July 18 to celebrate the hospital’s centennial.

The opening comes as ECH marks its 100th year of serving Essex County — a milestone that underscores the hospital’s decades‑long commitment to expanding access to essential services.

“As we celebrate our centennial, this new center reflects exactly what ECH has always been about,” Ortmyer said. “Listening to our community, identifying what people need most, and building toward a healthier future.”

Facility Snapshot

• Name: Elizabethtown Community Hospital Outpatient Rehab
• Address: 78 Park Street, Elizabethtown, NY
• Operating Hours: 7:15 am to 4:30 pm, Monday-Friday
• Size: 13,000 square feet
• Services: Orthopedic, neurologic, sports injury, pelvic health, balance/vestibular, lymphedema; cardiac and pulmonary rehab
• Team: 10 therapists across PT, OT, and Speech
• Technology: AlterG, LiteGait, BFR therapy
• Access Impact: ~10% reduction in wait times expected with added capacity

About Elizabethtown Community Hospital

University of Vermont Health – Elizabethtown Community Hospital is a not-for-profit critical access hospital with locations in Elizabethtown and Ticonderoga and six community-based primary care centers serving Essex County and the Adirondack Park region. As part of a rural academic health system serving Vermont and northern New York, we provide essential emergency, inpatient, rehabilitation and specialty care close to home. Together, we deliver access to leading-edge technology, advanced treatment options and the highest level of compassionate care while addressing the critical needs and unique challenges facing our patients, their families and our employees.

Plattsburgh, NY, March 23, 2026 -— The Plattsburgh YMCA Board of Directors today announced the unanimous appointment of Jeffrey L. Collen as Interim Chief Executive Officer, along with additional leadership steps to support the organization during this critical time.

Collen was identified through YMCA of the USA (Y-USA) and selected by the Board for his extensive experience leading YMCA organizations through periods of transition and operational improvement.

Collen brings decades of executive leadership experience within the YMCA movement, having served as CEO and Interim CEO for multiple YMCA associations across the country.

Most recently, he has served in interim executive roles with YMCA associations in Alabama, Mississippi, and Missouri, where he has been recognized for strengthening operations, improving program quality, rebuilding community trust, and guiding organizations through complex organizational challenges.

Over the course of his career, Collen has successfully led organizations through financial distress, operational restructuring, and community reinvestment-restoring stability, enhancing member experience, and developing strong leadership teams.

The Board intentionally sought an experienced, external leader to provide an independent, objective, and transparent assessment of operations and to help guide the YMCA forward.

“We are grateful to have someone of Jeff’s caliber stepping into this role at such a critical time,” said Courtney DeLaura, Chair of the Plattsburgh YMCA Board of Directors. “His experience working with YMCAs across the country, particularly during times of transition, will be instrumental as we work to stabilize operations and move forward with a clear and accountable path.”

In addition, the YMCA announced that Stephanie Purcell, currently serving as Membership Director, will step in as Acting Director of the Bright Beginnings Childcare Center.

Purcell brings over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, youth programming, and YMCA operations. She holds a Bachelor of Liberal Arts with a concentration in Early Childhood Education from Cazenovia College and has served in multiple leadership roles within the Plattsburgh YMCA, including Director of the Y’s Time Before & After School Program and Director of Y Wee Care.

In these roles, Purcell has overseen childcare operations, staffing, curriculum development, and regulatory compliance, while building strong relationships with families and the community. Her background also includes experience as a lead teacher and camp director, with a consistent focus on creating safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environments for children.

The YMCA continues to work closely with the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), law enforcement, and legal counsel to implement all required corrective actions and safeguards following the allegations of physical abuse in the Bright Beginnings Childcare Center.

“Our focus remains on child protection and accountability,” said Molly Ryan, Vice Chairperson for the YMCA Board of Directors. “We are committed to taking the necessary steps to ensure that the Bright Beginnings Childcare Center can safely reopen under the strongest possible standards for child safety and oversight.”

The Board emphasized that the organization is actively working to:

• Strengthen policies, reporting procedures, and staff training
• Ensure full compliance with all regulatory requirements
• Reestablish safe and effective operations within the childcare center

The Bright Beginnings Childcare Center will remain closed until further notice. The YMCA will continue to provide updates to families, staff, and the community as progress is made toward reopening.

—

Plattsburgh, NY, March 23, 2026  — Assemblyman Michael Cashman (D – Plattsburgh) proudly hosted the 10th Annual Women of Distinction Ceremony, recognizing an inaugural class of eight extraordinary women whose leadership, service, and compassion continue to shape communities across the North Country. Each honoree reflected a shared and powerful idea—to inspire by example. The evening’s program was emceed by Linda Bourgeois, herself a former Woman of Distinction honoree recognized by former Assemblyman Jones.

Special thanks were extended to the MHAB Life Skills Campus for graciously hosting the event and for their ongoing commitment to supporting individuals and families throughout the region.

“Each of these women leads not just through words, but through action,” Assemblyman Cashman said. “They inspire by example through service, resilience, and a deep commitment to lifting others up. Their stories remind us what’s possible when leadership is rooted in purpose.”

The 2026 Women of Distinction honorees include:

• Kara Stark Elliott (Business)
• Ellie Jent (Community & Civic Affairs)
• Katie Hendrie (Health Care)
• Patricia LaValley (Civil Service)
• Julie Coon (Education)
• Kristeen Colby (Humanitarian Work)
• Amy Asadourian (Military Service/Law Enforcement)
• Michelle Breen (Volunteerism)

Each honoree received an official New York State Assembly Proclamation from Assemblyman Cashman in recognition of their lasting contributions. Their stories marked by perseverance, leadership, and service serve as a powerful source of inspiration for communities throughout the region.

Assemblyman Cashman also announced that planning is already underway for next year’s Women of Distinction program, building on this year’s momentum and continuing the tradition of recognizing women who lead and inspire by example.

“The North Country is stronger because of these women,” Cashman added. “And this is just the beginning. We look forward to continuing this important tradition for years to come.”

Click here for the Adirondack Almanac story 

Click here for the Syracuse.com story 

Chciken and Biscuits

Vegetable 

Fruit

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!

A coalition of scholars, advocates and organizations launched John Brown America250, an initiative to reexamine the historical record

Click here for the Adirondack Almanac story 

The Saturday, March 21, Press-Republican has an excellent in-depth story on City school issues 

Click here for the MSN story 

Click here for the NCPR story 

Click here for the Adirondack Explorer story 

Click here for the vtdigger story 

Clisk here for the New York Focus story 

Peru Gazette file photo

PLATTSBURGH, N.Y., March 29, 2026  — Mayor Hughes today issued the following statement regarding the recent decision by the New York Power Authority (NYPA) to increase hydropower rates supplied to municipal utilities:

“The City of Plattsburgh has long benefited from some of the lowest electric rates in New York due to our access to clean hydropower. However, NYPA’s approved rate increases will have a direct impact on our municipal electric system and, ultimately, on our residents and businesses.”

A much larger increase was averted last year when the Governor stopped the proposed rate increase. The increase came about when the debt service increased to over 25 million dollars and  recently topped 51 million dollars. As part of this agreement this debt has been forgiven.

NYPA recently approved a phased increase in its “preference power” rates, which supply public power systems like Plattsburgh’s. The increases are scheduled to begin in 2026 and continue gradually over six years.

“We understand that any increase in utility costs places added pressure on families—especially at a time when affordability remains a top concern across the North Country.”

Local and regional officials have consistently highlighted rising energy costs as a major issue for residents, with affordability cited as a key concern in recent public forums.

The Mayor emphasized that the City will work to minimize impacts where possible:

“Our Municipal Lighting Department will carefully evaluate how these changes affect our rates and will continue to prioritize reliability, transparency, and cost control. We are committed to keeping Plattsburgh’s electric service among the most affordable in the state.”

The City also plans to:

• Monitor NYPA rate adjustments and long-term impacts
• Advocate for policies that protect municipal power customers
• Provide updates to residents as more information becomes available

“We will continue to advocate at the state level to ensure that Plattsburgh will not be disproportionately impacted by rising energy costs but this deal does solidify our Preferential Hydro power till 2040 and insures clarity and limits for future rate increases. ”

The most concrete deadline for climate action would be pushed out to the end of her potential second term.

Click here for the New York Focus story 

Plattsburgh, NY, March 20, 2026  — Following the allegations of physical abuse, the Plattsburgh YMCA has taken decisive personnel actions. The employment of the individual directly involved was terminated following the initial allegation. Since then, the Plattsburgh YMCA Board of Directors has terminated the employment of the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Operating Officer, the Bright Beginnings Director, and the Lead Teacher following a review of the circumstances surrounding this matter.

The Board of Directors continues to work closely with the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) and local law enforcement as their investigations remain ongoing. The organization is also working in consultation with legal counsel to ensure all appropriate steps are taken in response to the findings to date.

To provide experienced leadership during this time, the YMCA is in the process of bringing on an Interim Chief Executive Officer through YMCA of the USA (Y-USA). This individual will support the organization in stabilizing operations, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements, and guiding the YMCA through this critical period.

“Our focus remains on the safety and well-being of the children and families we serve,” said Molly Ryan, Vice Chair of the Plattsburgh YMCA Board of Directors. “We are taking this matter extremely seriously and are committed to taking the necessary actions to address what has occurred and to rebuild trust within our community.”

The YMCA is actively working with OCFS and legal counsel to implement all required corrective actions and safeguards. These steps are essential to ensuring that the Bright Beginnings Childcare Center can safely reopen in the future under the strongest possible standards for child protection and oversight.

“We recognize the impact this situation has had on families, staff, and the broader community,” said Richelle Gregory, Secretary for the Plattsburgh YMCA Board of Directors. “While we cannot undo what has happened, we are committed to transparency, accountability, and making the changes necessary to move forward responsibly.”

The Bright Beginnings Childcare Center will remain closed until further notice. Additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available and as the organization progresses through the required steps toward reopening.

Albany, March 20, 2026 – New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, Montgomery County District Attorney Christina Pearson, and New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James announced the arrest of MaryBeth Shults, the former Executive Director of the Fulton-Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, for allegedly stealing $440,351 from the Chamber.

“Instead of helping small businesses grow and thrive in her community, Shults allegedly helped herself to $440,351 to fund her lifestyle,” DiNapoli said. “My thanks to Montgomery County DA Pearson and State Police Superintendent James for their partnership in rooting out the misuse of public funds.”

“The Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office takes matters of public trust and misuse of public funding very seriously,” said Montgomery County District Attorney Christina Pearson. “We thank the  New York State Comptroller, Thomas DiNapoli and his professional staff members and the members of the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation for their diligence in conducting this investigation, which led to the arrest of MaryBeth Shults for three felony level charges.”

“Cases like this represent a serious breach of trust and undermine the integrity of organizations that serve and support local communities,” said New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James. “The New York State Police will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to investigate allegations of financial crimes and hold individuals accountable when they exploit positions of authority for personal gain.”

Shults’ actions first came to light when she attempted to purchase a $160,000 home with Chamber of Commerce funds, prompting the launch of a joint investigation by State Comptroller DiNapoli’s Office, the New York State Police and the Montgomery County District Attorney.

DiNapoli’s forensic examination of the Chamber’s accounts discovered that, in addition to the attempted home purchase, Shults embezzled over $440,000 in Chamber funds starting almost immediately upon appointment as the Chamber’s Executive Director in June of 2025.  As Executive Director, Shults had access to the Fulton-Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce bank accounts. She allegedly used her access to write checks to herself, made unauthorized cash withdrawals, and pay for high priced items including a $57,000 down payment on a pick-up truck. She also spent $220,000 on personal farm equipment, a snowmobile, and furniture.

Shults was terminated in early March of this year when her alleged crimes came to light.

The Fulton-Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce receives funding from Montgomery County, Fulton County, other local municipalities, and state grants.

She was charged with Grand Larceny second degree, Possession of a Forged Instrument first degree, and Falsifying Business Records first degree. Shults was arraigned before Judge Wayne Moratta in the Town of Amsterdam Town Court and is scheduled to appear back in court on May 5.

The charges filed in this case are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

(PLATTSBURGH, NY – March 20, 2026) The Strand Center for the Arts is excited to host

“Holding space, ” a collaborative exhibition between the Strand Center for the Arts and BHSN

(Behavioral Health Services North) for Mental Health Month in May. This show will be composed of work from the general public as well as artwork created by residents in BHSN’s PROS program.

Mental health is a universal human experience and often goes hand in hand with the arts. It is common knowledge that art can be used as a creative outlet for processing one’s mental health.

This process looks so vastly different from person to person, as everyone’s psyche is individual to them. This exhibition invites artists to submit 3-5 pieces of work that represent their own journey with art and mental health. Some questions artists may ask themselves as they create or curate work for this show: What are the correlations between art and mental health? How has art impacted your mental health journey? How has your experience with mental health informed your practice as an artist?

This exhibition will be a place to hold space for those who need it. “With this exhibition being an open show for the public to submit artwork, it’s likely to see a lot of familiar artists as well as new ones. These types of exhibitions, especially ones with a theme, give the general public a greater opportunity to display their work. Having this exhibition up all through Mental Health Month in May is a big plus.

Strand Center for the Arts Gallery Hours:

Open 1 p.m. —9 p.m. Wednesday, Open 1 p.m., —5 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Open 10 a.m. —3 p.m. Saturday,  Closed Sunday—Tuesday

Click here for the New York Focus story 

CVPH Photo

10,000 eggs, Easter Bunny, and inclusive fun April 4

Plattsburgh, NY, March 20, 2026 — The Foundation of CVPH is “hopping” into spring with its Annual Easter Egg Hunt planned for Saturday, April 4 at 10 am sharp on the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) front lawn.

This community tradition will feature 10,000 candy‑filled eggs spread across the lawn. To ensure a fun and inclusive experience, the event will include a separate hunting area for children ages 3 and under, as well as a quiet hunting area for children who may benefit from a calmer environment. Families are encouraged to come prepared — this is a BYOB event (Bring Your Own Basket) and is held regardless of the weather and hunting conditions.

Serving as guest of honor is the Easter Bunny who will be greeting families and posing for photos.

“There’s something really special about being able to offer this tradition to the community each year. We see many of the parents with their children who were once egg hunters themselves,” said

Michelle Senecal, Foundation Manager of Events and Special Projects. She added that Easter Egg Hunt would not be possible without the amazing support of CVPH volunteers. “Many thanks to volunteers who spend hours filling thousands of eggs.”

Known by some as “the fastest minute in Plattsburgh,” the egg hunt moves quickly, so families are encouraged to arrive early and be ready to go when the hunt begins at 10 a.m. sharp.

Convenient parking is located in the Medical Office Building lots just off the Cornelia Street entrance. For more information, contact Senecal at 518-314-3359 or msenecal@cvph.org.

1. Call Meeting to Order

2. Pledge of Allegiance

3. Roll Call

4. MOTION: Approval of Minutes for the Regular Meeting of March 9, 2026. 

5. Community Input. 

6. DISCUSSION:   Engineering Update on Telegraph Road Over Dry Mill Brook.

7. DISCUSSION:   Engineering Update on the Water Plant Upgrade Project.

8. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Hiring Atlantic Testing Laboratories for Material Testing for Lyons Rd. Culvert Project.

9. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Hiring of Full Time Seasonal Laborer for the W/S/V and Parks Dept.

10.  RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Approval of Money Transfer from Water Debt Service to Pay H34 Water Project Bill.

11. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Appointing James Douglass to the Board of Assessment Review.

12. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION: Appointing of a Deputy Town Clerk/Registrar of Vital Statistics. 

13. DISCUSSION/MOTION: Application for Use of Heyworth Mason Park By the Peru Free Library.

14. DISCUSSION/MOTION: America 250 Presentation By Historian, Helen Nerska.

15. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION:  Approve of Proposal for Engineering Services for the Valcour Wastewater Treatment Plant Update Report by AES Northeast.

16. DISCUSSION: Other Business. – Councilmen

17. DISCUSSION: Other Business. – Dept. Heads 

18. DISCUSSION: Public Comments on Agenda Items Only.

19. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION:  Pay Bills – March 2026

20. MOTION:  Adjourn to Executive Session.

21. MOTION:  Return from Executive Session. 

22. MOTION:  Adjourn Meeting.

Closures are Effective Immediately due to Spring Thaw in DEC Region 5 and Region 6

The Peru Central School District Board of Education will conduct a series of two budget workshops to develop the 2026-2027 budget. These sessions are scheduled for 6:00 PM on Tuesday, March 24 and Thursday, March 26, 2026. Both workshops will be held in the High School Community Room.

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

The complete agendas for each workshop will be available via BoardDocs on the District’s website at www.perunighthawks.org.