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

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

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As New York’s K-12 enrollment declines, homeschooling and charter schools are on the rise

Click here for the NCPR story 

DEC Seeks Public Input on Draft Policy to Improve Access to Outdoor Recreation for People with Disabilities

New Policy Provides Framework for Identifying Opportunities for the Use of Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices. Written Comments Accepted until Monday, March 9; Virtual Public Meeting on Wednesday, February 4

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Amanda Lefton today announced the release of a draft Commissioner Policy to improve access to the outdoors for people with mobility disabilities. The proposed policy guides the use of Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices (OPDMDs) on DEC-managed lands by consolidating and streamlining several existing DEC policies and procedures and establishes a framework to identify new opportunities for the use of OPDMDs by people with mobility disabilities.

“DEC manages nearly 5 million acres of land to conserve natural resources while providing diverse outdoor recreational opportunities, from hiking and bicycling, to camping and hunting,” Commissioner Lefton said. “Forests and natural areas provide physical and mental health benefits to millions of New Yorkers and this proposed policy would improve transparency and help ensure those benefits are available to people of all abilities.”

DEC welcomes all visitors to explore State lands and is committed to providing an ever-increasing range of accessible outdoor recreation opportunities. The new policy is part of DEC’s ongoing efforts to making reasonable modifications to the State’s general policies, practices, and procedures to ensure that people with disabilities are afforded equitable access, without taking any action that would fundamentally alter the nature of its programs, services, or activities.

OPDMDs are battery or fuel-powered devices, other than wheelchairs, used for locomotion – including golf carts, scooters, e-bikes, and other personal mobility devices. DEC currently administers an accommodation program for people with mobility disabilities and is committed to advancing accessibility for people with disabilities.

The new draft policy is intended to replace Commissioner Policy 3 (Motorized Access Program for People with Disabilities), continuing the permitted opportunities identified under that policy for cars, trucks, and ATVs, while also expanding opportunities for a wider range of devices.

The proposal provides clear information about public recreation opportunities that allow OPDMD uses in select locations across the state, provide guidance for evaluating additional device uses over time. The proposal also identifies areas of DEC-managed lands where certain categories of OPDMDs would not be allowed due to public safety issues, risks to natural resources, or other concerns.

Written comments on the draft policy will be accepted through March 9, 2026. DEC is also hosting a virtual public meeting on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at 6 p.m. for those interested in learning more. To register for the public meeting, or to access the draft policy and provide comments, visit DEC’s website.

For information about DEC’s accessible recreation destinations and explore the range of wheelchair-accessible opportunities statewide, including an interactive online map to identify accessible features on DEC lands, visit DEC’s website.

Peru Youth Basketball Program Seeking Rec. Director

Basketball program seeking assistant to Rec Director. Should be available now until March 24 Saturday’s for games and weeknights for practices. Would prefer someone associated with the school district to help access facilities.

Clinton Community College Joins Regional Nursing Consortium to Expand Student Pathways

Partnership with North Country colleges leverages SUNY investment to address critical healthcare workforce needs
 
PLATTSBURGH — Clinton Community College has entered into a partnership with three other North Country colleges and universities to boost enrollment across nursing programs and expand pathways for students.
The initiative is part of a $1 million investment from the State University of New York’s High Needs Nursing Fund, announced last month, which aims to strengthen the healthcare workforce statewide. This effort aligns with SUNY and New York State’s broader strategy to address the critical shortage of healthcare professionals.
The North Country Nursing Consortium includes Clinton Community College, SUNY Canton, SUNY Jefferson and North Country Community College. The institutions will receive more than $60,000 combined to establish the partnership and form a collaborative network.
“This partnership reflects our commitment to meeting the region’s healthcare needs,” said Maggie Courson, interim vice president of academic affairs at Clinton Community College. “By working together, we can open more doors for students, strengthen nursing education and ensure our graduates are ready to serve communities across the North Country.”
Through this consortium, student applicants who are waitlisted at one institution will have the opportunity to be redirected to another college with available capacity. In addition, the partnership will enable faculty sharing in specialized areas where instructors are limited, such as psychiatric nursing.
Peggy Bolster, assistant professor at Clinton Community College, will help lead instruction related to mental health. From shared curriculum to potential distance learning opportunities, the consortium is designed to maximize resources and expertise.
“I am very excited about the idea of a nursing consortium,” said Bolster. “It is an opportunity to share best practices and critical resources. I believe it will greatly benefit nursing students by broadening resources and incorporating more experts in specific fields. This, in turn, will further prepare students for the workforce.”
Clinton, which saw an overall enrollment increase of more than 9% year-over-year this past fall, and a 50% year-over-year increase in nursing program enrollment, is working to expand programming. The formation of the consortium comes at a pivotal time for both students and the region’s healthcare system.
To learn more about Clinton Community College’s Nursing Program, visit clinton.edu.

Town of Peru Youth Commission 2026 Meetings

*Anticipated for the fourth Tuesday of each month excluding February, June, and December

January 27 @ 7:00 pm Peru Town Hall

March 24 @ 7:00 pm Peru Town Hall

April 28 @ 7:00 pm Peru Town Hall

May 26 @ 7:00 pm Lapham Mills Park

July 28 @ 7:00 pm Lapham Mills Park
August 25 @ 7:00 pm Lapham Mills Park
September 29 @ 7:00 pm Lapham Mills Park
October 27 @ 7:00 Peru Town Hall
November 24 @ 7:00 pm Peru Town Hall

*Meeting may be changed or canceled based on the events happening in the Town of Peru and/or the Peru Central School District. Appropriate notice will be provided.

Recent NYS Forest Ranger Rescues

Hamlet of Elka Park
Greene County
Dog Rescue: On January 1 at 2:20 p.m., Ray Brook Dispatch called Forest Ranger Peterson about an injured dog on the Pecoy Notch trail on Twin Mountain. Ranger Peterson hiked in from the Roaring Kill trailhead and reached the hiker and a 40-pound dog. Ranger Peterson provided foot warmers to the hiker, who was wearing spring/summer hiking boots. The dog had cold front paws but otherwise was in good health. Ranger Fox arrived and kept the excited dog happy with treats. On the hike out, Rangers educated the 31-year-old from Pawling about proper winter clothing and footwear.

Rangers suggest hiking with the “10 Hiking Essentials,” including proper footwear and moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics that keep your skin dry and help regulate your body temperature.

Forest Ranger and dog during snow rescue

Dog rescue

Town of Newcomb
Essex County
Wilderness Rescue: On January 2 at 9 a.m., Essex County 911 contacted Ray Brook Dispatch about a 911 text from a hiker who fell through the ice into a stream on the trail between Lake Colden and Algonquin Peak. The 38-year-old from Brooklyn was not injured and kept warm with dry layers and a sleeping bag until rescuers could reach them. At 3 p.m., the Lake Colden Caretaker reached the subject and assisted them to the interior outpost. At 4:15 p.m., Forest Rangers began hiking with the subject toward Adirondak Loj. Rangers used snowmobiles for part of the trip and reached the trailhead at 8:23 p.m. 

Be sure to properly prepare and plan before entering the backcountry. Visit DEC’s Hike Smart NYAdirondack Backcountry Information, and Catskill Backcountry Information webpages for more information.

If a person needs a Forest Ranger, whether it’s for a search and rescue, to report a wildfire, or to report illegal activity on state lands and easements, they should call 833-NYS-RANGERS. If a person needs urgent assistance, they can call 911. To contact a Forest Ranger for information about a specific location, the DEC website has phone numbers for every Ranger listed by region.

$17 million federal funding for North Country Projects

WASHINGTON, D.C., Elise Stefanik News Release of Jan. 7, 2026 – Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) successfully delivered $17,078,064 million in funding for projects across Upstate New York and the North Country.

“I’m proud to have secured more than $17 million in federal funding for critical projects that will strengthen North Country innovation, protect public health, and keep our communities safe. From supporting cutting-edge biotechnology research at the Trudeau Institute, to upgrading aging wastewater systems in Upstate towns that have waited decades for relief, these investments will deliver real results to New York’s 21st District. This funding will also improve access to clean, reliable drinking water and enhance Northern Border security and maritime safety on Lake Champlain. Throughout my time in Congress, I have delivered significant results and nearly $1 billion in federal funds, and that work will continue this year,” said Stefanik.

Funding recipients include:

Trudeau Institute

  • $4,200,000 to enable the biotech research institute to identify, develop, and disseminate best practices for the application of process control, automated data collection, and measurement techniques in the biosciences and biotechnology, as well as advance the mission of the National Institute of Standards and Technology by facilitating more rapid commercialization of biotechnology in both the public and private sectors.

“Trudeau is a uniquely important asset for the North Country and for the nation,” said Garry Douglas, President of the North Country Chamber of Commerce. “Securing fresh federal support for its research endeavors has been one of our priorities in Congress, working actively with Congresswoman Stefanik and with Senators Schumer and Gillibrand, including meetings in Washington in the fall. The Congresswoman’s appropriation of $4.2 million for bio research together with $2.5 million from the Senators for modernization of specialized equipment will help to sustain and grow Trudeau’s vital work for years to come. This is a very welcome advance at the very start of the new year. Onward and upward!”

Village of Evans Mills

  • $2,000,000 to replace its deteriorating wastewater treatment facility with a new wastewater treatment and disinfection facility.

“On behalf of the Village of Evans Mills, we extend our sincere gratitude to Congresswoman Elise Stefanik for her leadership and support in securing Community Project Funding for our wastewater infrastructure and UV disinfection facility. This vital investment will enable us to modernize our treatment system, enhance water quality, and uphold our commitment to environmental stewardship by protecting local waterways and downstream communities,” stated Village of Evans Mills Mayor Robert Boucher. “We also recognize and thank our dedicated Village employees, whose expertise and dedication make projects of this scale possible. For a small municipality, federal support of this nature is critical to advancing major infrastructure improvements while minimizing the impact on local taxpayers. We are pleased to see this project included in the FY26 appropriations bill and look forward to the lasting benefits it will provide for public health and the environment.”

Village of Broadalbin

  • $2,000,000 to improve drinking water and replace a failing 95-year-old water tank and water lines.

“We are deeply grateful to Congresswoman Stefanik for securing $2 million towards the replacement of our aging water tower,” said Village of Broadalbin Mayor Steve Murray.”Replacing this critical infrastructure, which has served our community for nearly a century, has faced years of delays due to lack of resources. With this funding, we can finally move forward with a permanent solution, shifting from costly temporary fixes to a reliable, long-term system. This investment will ensure access to safe, dependable water for residents and businesses for generations to come.”

Village of Port Leyden

  • $2,000,000 to replace severely deteriorated water mains.

“On behalf of the residents of the Village of Port Leyden, I extend sincere appreciation to our partners for this significant $2 million award. The funds allocated will enable the completion of our comprehensive water infrastructure improvement project, a critically important initiative that will enhance the safety, efficiency, and long-term sustainability of the Village’s water system,” said Village of Port Leyden Mayor Heather Collins. “We are especially grateful to Congresswoman Elise Stefanik and Senator Charles Schumer for their sponsorship and steadfast commitment to securing this investment in our community. This award reflects a shared dedication to protecting public health, supporting environmental stewardship, and strengthening the foundation upon which Port Leyden will continue to grow and prosper for generations to come.”

Village of Hudson Falls

  • $2,000,000 to replace deteriorating water mains.

Town of Lake Luzerne

  • $1,784,000 to rehabilitate its existing water storage tank and replace antiquated water mains within the Lake Luzerne Water District.

“It is exciting to hear that Congresswoman Stefanik’s EPA Stag Drinking Water State Revolving Fund grant for the Town of Lake Luzerne is still proceeding. This grant of $1,784,000 will allow our small upstate Adirondack tourist town to replace parts of our municipal system that in some cases are over 100 years old,” said Town of Lake Luzerne Supervisor Jim Niles. “Last year alone we had to perform emergency repairs on 11 leaks, in a system that serves approximately 1,100 homes.  Clean reliable water is a fundamental component to the health and quality of life in our community, and it is essential to our largest industry which is tourism. We are currently working on the engineering phase of our system upgrades, so when we get the grant we can hit the ground running.”

Town of Herkimer

  • $1,594,064 to replace inadequate and failing septic systems.

“The Town of Herkimer’s East Herkimer Sewer Project is an economic development project based on installing municipal wastewater infrastructure to allow for local businesses to grow and develop,” said Town of Herkimer Supervisor Dominic Frank. “As such it is consistent with Congresswoman Stefanik’s steadfast support for economic growth in our area, and the Town of Herkimer cannot thank her enough for seeing the value in this project. This project has a dramatic impact to our area as it will allow for not only existing businesses to grow as 20 to 40 manufacturing and health care jobs will be created, but also allow for new planned development such as a skilled nursing facility and a community center to be constructed in the immediate area. Furthermore, the municipal wastewater infrastructure will serve the section of the Town already served by municipal water creating an area ready for further development. Many thanks to Congresswoman Stefanik and Congress for these vital funds that will impact the Town of Herkimer and our County for years to come.”

Town of Richmondville

  • $1,000,000 to improve the current aging and failing wastewater treatment system and provide for the safe disposal of wastewater.

“Our sewer project planning started four years ago,” said Town of Richmondville Supervisor Jeff Haslun. “The Town of Richmondville previously has been awarded three grants, an Enhanced WIIA grant through Environmental Facilities Corporation, an Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law through the Environmental Facilities Corporation, and a Schoharie County ARPA award. Our project is expected to start construction this spring and with this additional funding support it will help minimize any debt service that those citizens will have to pay, which when the Town of Richmondville did an income survey, it revealed that 76% of the residents were of low to moderate income with a median household income of $40,601. The Town of Richmondville thanks the efforts of our sponsors, Rep. Elise Stefanik and Sen. Charles Schumer.”

Clinton County

  • $500,000 to enable the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office to obtain a maritime patrol vessel, allowing for safe operations in all weather conditions and enhancing Northern Border Security and interstate maritime safety on Lake Champlain.

“Lake Champlain is a major international body of water shared with Canada,” said Clinton County Sheriff David Favro. “With this funding the Clinton County Sheriff’s office will be able to more effectively enforce laws and provide rescue services to the residents and many guests of this beautiful natural resource.”

CVPH Blood Drive, Monday Jan. 12

Peru – CVPH Donor Center Blood Brive, Monday, January 12, 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., at St. Augustine’s Parish Center, 3030 Main St. in Peru. The blood collected by the Donor Center provides more than 95% of the blood used at CVPH and is used to supply other hospitals in Elizabethtown, Malone, Massena, Saranac Lake and Glens Falls.
St. Augustine’s Knights of Columbus Council 7273 is coordinating the drive

New York Launches Lawsuit Against UPS Over Alleged Seasonal Worker ‘Wage Theft’

Click here for the New York Now story 

Gov. Hochul Signs a Bill To Allow Certain Retailers To Buy and Resell Wine and Liquor

Click here for the New York Now story 

Adirondack-inspired play area opens at Albany International Airport

Click here for the Adirondack Almanac story 

The feds gave New York key evidence on horse racing’s largest doping ring. State regulators have done nothing with it for years.

Click here for the New York Focus story 

Could New York State actually adopt a universal childcare model?

Click here for the NCPR story

DEC Encourages Volunteer Campground Ambassadors to Sign Up for 2026 Camping Season

Peru Gazette May 2023 photo at Ausable Point Campground

Volunteers Help Less-Experienced Campers Enjoy their Stay and Make Lasting Connections with the Outdoors. Applications Due by January 30, 2026

DEC News Release of January 6, 2026 – The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced today the opening of the 2026 application period for the Campground Ambassador program to connect more New Yorkers with the outdoors. Like other campground host programs, volunteer Campground Ambassadors assist DEC campground staff in welcoming and assisting the millions of visitors who vacation in the Adirondack and Catskill parks each year. This program also complements Governor Kathy Hochul’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative to promote physical and mental health by encouraging kids and families to put down their phones and computers, take a break from social media, and enjoy recreation and the outdoors.

“Providing exciting programming for our campers all season long is integral to the ongoing success of DEC’s affordable Adirondack and Catskill campgrounds,” DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said. “Campground Ambassadors assist DEC staff by enhancing the customer service experience at our facilities and conduct fun, educational, and meaningful activities. We look forward to welcoming back our seasoned campers and introducing new campers to everything our facilities have to offer.”

Ambassadors aid in connecting campers and day users to nature through environmentally themed activities and programming. DEC is encouraging New Yorkers that are passionate about camping and the outdoors to help us introduce new campers to DEC facilities and other outdoor activities through this volunteer opportunity.

Ambassadors will serve two weeks during DEC’s core camping season (July through Labor Day). In consideration for services provided, a campsite will be provided for the duration of their stay at one of the following participating locations:

Adirondacks 

Ausable Point Campground and Day Use Area

Buck Pond Campground and Day Use Area

Cranberry Lake Campground and Day Use Area

Fish Creek Pond Campground and Day Use Area

Frontier Town Campground, Equestrian and Day Use Area

Lewey Lake Campground and Day Use Area

Luzerne Campground and Day Use Area

Meacham Lake Campground and Day Use Area

Moffitt Beach Campground and Day Use Area

Nicks Lake Campground and Day Use Area

Northampton Beach Campground and Day Use Area

Rogers Rock Campground and Day Use Area

To apply for the 2026 program please visit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DECAmb26

Applications must be received by January 30, 2026. Read more »

Clinton County Legislature holds Organizational Meeting

Mark Henry continuing as Legislature Chairman

Clinton County, NY News Release of January 6, 2026 – The Clinton County Legislature successfully concluded its annual reorganizational meeting, formally establishing its leadership team for the coming year. The meeting underscores the Legislature’s continued commitment to progress, stability and the well-being of communities throughout Clinton County.

Mark Henry (Chazy, Area 3-R) was re-elected as Chair of the Clinton County Legislature. Francis Peryea (Altona, Area 2-R) was elected Deputy Chair, bringing a strong local perspective and commitment to community service. Rob Timmons (Peru, Area 7-R) will continue serving as Republican Leader, while David Bezio (Plattsburgh, Area 4-D) will serve as Democratic Leader.

As Clinton County looks toward the year ahead, legislative leaders expressed optimism about the opportunities before them.

“I am honored to continue serving as Chair of the Clinton County Legislature,” said Mark Henry, Chairperson of the Clinton County Legislature (Chazy, Area 3-R). “Our focus remains on meeting the needs of our communities while supporting economic development, public safety, healthcare and education. Through collaboration and responsible governance, we can continue strengthening Clinton County for all residents.”

“I’m proud to step into the role of Deputy Chair and to continue serving the people of Clinton County,” said Francis Peryea (Altona, Area 2-R) Deputy Chairperson of the Clinton County Legislature. “This job is about showing up, listening and working together to solve problems. If we keep our focus on our towns, villages and neighborhoods, we’ll keep moving the County forward.”

“I remain enthusiastic about the future of Clinton County and our responsibility to provide strong, effective services for residents,” said Rob Timmons, Republican Leader of the Clinton County Legislature (Peru, Area 7-R). “Collaboration and thoughtful decision-making will continue to guide our work.”

“Constructive dialogue and accountability are essential to good government,” said David Bezio, (Plattsburgh, Area 4-D) Democratic Leader of the Clinton County Legislature. “I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure decisions are made in the best interest of county residents.”

The Legislature also recognized Christine G. Peters, Esq. in her new role as County Administrator, overseeing daily County operations and supporting the implementation of legislative priorities.

Click here for a Home Town Cable video of the meeting 

Double bassist Jean Félix Mailloux, Montreal-based Cordâme blends genres on Sunday February 1st at The Saranac Methodist Church

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Montreal-based ensemble Cordâme will present a program of reimagined works by Ravel, Debussey and Satie with the works of founder Jean Félix Mailoux on Sunday, February 1st at 3pm at the Methodist Church on Rt. 3 in Saranac.  Admission at the door only; General Admission $20, Children and Students $10. 

Cordâme is a Montreal-based ensemble formed in 2004 and led by composer and double bassist Jean Félix Mailloux. The group explores the intersection of classical music, jazz, and world influences, crafting evocative and richly textured soundscapes. For Cordâme’s recent 20th anniversary Mailloux curated a program blending original compositions with reimagined works by Ravel, Debussy, and Satie, including Daphnis et Chloé, Gnossiennes, and Trois morceaux en forme de poires. His own pieces, such as “À vol de colibri”, “Naïve”, and “Plante Caméléon”, reflect Cordâme’s evolving sound while paying tribute to these great masters.

Cordâme has earned critical acclaim with 11 albums, international tours across Quebec, Canada, the U.S., and Asia, and awards including the 2025 Opus Prize for Jazz Concert of the Year in 2025 for Fabula Femina and Album of the Year in 2013 for Lieux imaginés, and an ADISQ (Québec Association for the Recording, Concert and Video Industries) nomination for Da Vinci Inventions. Their Satie Variations tour was a finalist for the 2018 Rideau Touring Award, was the winner of Accès Culture Award 2016-1017 and featured over 55 performances around the province of Quebec.

We look forward to seeing you on February 1st to start our 2026 calendar.  For more information on all the upcoming shows, please visit hillandhollowmusic.org.

This project is made possible with funds from the Statewide Community Regrants program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and administered by the Adirondack Lakes Center for the Arts.

$67.5 Million Competitive Grant Program Will Support New and Renovated Public Playgrounds, Advancing Youth Wellness and Community Connection

Peru Gazette October 2017 photo

NYS News Release off January 6, 2026 – Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that a new funding opportunity through the New York Places for Learning, Activity, and Youth Socialization (NY PLAYS) Initiative, a competitive grant program that will provide $67.5 million in capital funding to help municipalities and nonprofit organizations construct, expand and renovate public playgrounds for all abilities across New York State.

NY PLAYS is part of the Governor’s broader Unplug and Play Initiative, which encourages children and families to put down their devices and engage in outdoor recreation, physical activity and in-person social connection. Research shows that outdoor play supports physical health, emotional well-being and social development, and the NY PLAYS Initiative is designed to help communities advance safe, welcoming spaces where young people can learn, play, and thrive.

“Playgrounds are where kids build confidence, friendships, and lifelong healthy habits,” Governor Hochul said. “Through the NY PLAYS Initiative, we’re helping communities across New York create safe, inclusive outdoor spaces that support physical activity, emotional well-being and real human connection. By investing in playgrounds, we’re investing in the health and happiness of our children of all abilities and the strength of our neighborhoods.”

The NY PLAYS Initiative is overseen by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York. Of the total funding available, not less than $35 million will be reserved for playground projects located in underserved communities, helping ensure equitable access to high-quality outdoor play spaces statewide.

Eligible municipalities and nonprofit organizations may apply for NY PLAYS grants ranging from $100,000 to $2.5 million for the acquisition, design, construction, major renovation or equipping of public playgrounds, along with other related capital costs necessary to complete a project. Grantees must demonstrate a 20 percent match toward total project costs. For-profit entities are not eligible to apply. Read more »

Governor Hochul, Mayor Mamdani and Police Commissioner Tisch announce crime in NYC continued to fall in 2025

Photo provided

NYPD Data Shows 2025 was the Safest Year for Gun Violence in New York City on Record With the Fewest Shooting Incidents And Shooting Victims

Subway Crime Reached the Lowest Level in 16 Years

Peru Gazette Note – Read the stats toward the end of the release; there are still many problems to solve 

NYS News Release of Jan. 6, 2026 – Governor Kathy Hochul, Mayor Zohran Mamdani and NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch today announced that New York City remains the safest big city in the country. New 2025 data released by the NYPD and detailed this morning during a press conference show that the city is safer above and below ground, with murders, retail theft, robberies, and subway crime continuing to decline. Shooting incidents and the number of individuals harmed by gunfire also reached record lows last year across the city.

“When I became Governor, I made keeping New Yorkers safe my top priority and tackled crime head-on in New York City and across the state. Since then, I have made unprecedented investments in police and public safety – more than $3 billion – to make New York’s neighborhoods and subways safer,” Governor Hochul said. “Our aggressive approach is paying off: crime has fallen to record lows, making New York a safer place to live, work and visit. I look forward to continuing this work with Mayor Mamdani, Police Commissioner Tisch and the brave men and women of law enforcement who sacrifice so much to ensure New York remains the safest big city in the country.”

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said, “Last year, New York City had its safest year for gun violence ever. This achievement—among many others—is a testament to the leadership of Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, the dedication of the NYPD, and the tireless work of community-based organizations that help keep our neighborhoods safe. This work, however, is not done. Together with Police Commissioner Tisch and Governor Kathy Hochul, we will continue to drive down crime—addressing the needs of New Yorkers and working with our officers to deliver public safety.”

NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch said, “These historic reductions in crime did not happen by chance or accident — they are the direct product of a deliberate, data-driven strategy achieving unprecedented public safety milestones for New York City. The NYPD drove shooting incidents and shooting victims to the lowest levels in recorded history and delivered the safest year on our subway system, outside of the pandemic era, since 2009. These numbers describe an agency that’s firing on all cylinders: taking down violent gangs, removing thousands of guns off the street, and shattering record-low violent crime numbers. New York City is still the safest big city in the country, thanks to the extraordinary work of the women and men of the NYPD who answer the call every day to protect and serve.”   

The following data were compiled by the New York City Police Department as of December 31, 2025. Read more »

Opening reception, Saturday, January 10 at 10 a.m.

Here’s Every Bill That Kathy Hochul Vetoed in 2025

One hundred and forty laws that almost were.

Click here for the New York Focus story 

New York Counties Have Received Millions From Opioid Lawsuits, But Many Won’t Say How They’ve Spent It

Click here for the New York Focus story 

Farming the sun: Solar pairs up with sustainable agriculture

Farmer Rebekah Pierce shows how mixing food and energy builds local resilience and saves farms.

Click here for the Adirondack Almanac story 

Revolutionary War shipwrecks are caught in a preservation debate

A push to save relics from Battle of Valcour Island, 250 years after American forces clashed with the British on Lake Champlain

Click here for the Adirondack Explorer story 

DEC Announces Release of Final Adirondack Brook Trout Pond Management Plan

First Revised Plan in Nearly Half a Century will Guide Management to Ensure the Future of This Unique Fisheries Resource

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Amanda Lefton today announced the release of the final Adirondack Brook Trout Pond Management Plan. The brook trout is New York’s state fish and an iconic symbol of the Adirondacks and DEC’s new plan identifies the current risks, challenges, and opportunities that will guide the State’s management actions at Adirondack brook trout ponds for the next 15 years.

“Other than Maine, New York’s Adirondack Park is the only other location in the lower 48 states that supports a significant number of ponded brook trout fisheries, which shape the region’s ecological legacy and future,” Commissioner Lefton said. “A collaborative process guided by the latest science helped create a roadmap to improve the status of these unique fisheries and address emerging challenges to pond-dwelling Adirondack brook trout. DEC appreciates all who helped contribute to the plan’s development and looks forward to implementing the measures that will strengthen brook trout conservation.”

In the United States, pond dwelling populations of brook trout are extremely rare outside of Maine and New York. Brook trout ponds are an important component of the natural heritage of the Adirondacks, providing a unique angling opportunity in an often-secluded location. Once ubiquitous on our northern landscape, up to 90% of brook trout pond habitat has been lost due to anthropogenic factors, including poor silvicultural practices, acid-precipitation, and incompatible and detrimental fish species introductions. Retaining this resource is imperative to preserve our Adirondack natural heritage and a key element of the ecosystem.

It has been 46 years since the original DEC plan for managing pond-dwelling brook trout was created and many factors contributing to the health of the fishery have changed during that time. The final plan was developed based upon an intense review of what fisheries managers have learned over the past four decades, public feedback from three information sessions, input from a focus group of sportspersons and conservation organizations, and feedback received from a 45-day public comment period. Expected benefits associated with the plan include:

  • Protection of existing and establishment of new self-sustaining brook trout populations.
  • Safeguarded hatchery brook trout production for fishing and restoration purposes.
  • Maintenance and expansion of heritage broodstock waters.
  • Consistent and standardized data collection and management, and development of a decision support tool for management actions.
  • Creation of a citizen science brook trout pond angler partnership program and deployment of a citizen science survey to provide information on angler use, catch, and harvest.
  • Uniform fishing regulations.
  • Improved management of “put, grow, and take” recreational fishing.
  • Increased awareness about the value of ponded brook trout populations and human and ecological threats to the security of those populations.
  • Actions to reduce the spread of incompatible and detrimental fish, including baitfish.
  • Consideration of climate change in management actions.

A final copy of the plan and more information about Adirondack brook trout pond management can be found on the DEC website.

The plan is just one way DEC’s investments in habitat enhancement, angler enjoyment, and research will help continue to protect brook trout and other Adirondack fisheries. Earlier this year, DEC announced a $100 million investment from the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act and other capital funds for State hatchery improvements, including enhancements at the Adirondack Fish Hatchery that will help construct a new brook trout broodstock building. DEC also held the “Trek for Trout” citizen science initiative aimed at collecting information from anglers about their fishing trip. DEC and partner organizations Trout Unlimited, NY Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, Trout Power, Native Fish Coalition, Paul Smith’s College, and State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry posted signs at 148 Adirondack brook trout ponds. In addition to a pond-specific QR code, signs posted by the volunteers for use by anglers include important messaging about the prohibition of baitfish use in brook trout ponds. Watch a video about the Trek for Trout on DEC’s YouTube page.

State Comptroller audits find many downstate school districts are not complying with lead testing requirements

School Districts – Lead in Water: Testing and Reporting (2025-MS-2)

[read complete report – pdf]

We also issued individual reports for the following municipalities: Bayport Blue Point Union Free School District, Chazy Union Free School District, Cheektowaga-Maryvale Union Free School District, Commack Union Free School District, DeRuyter Central School District, East Bloomfield Central School District, Fredonia Central School District, Glen Cove City School District, Germantown Central School District, Harpursville Central School District, Indian Lake Central School District, Johnstown City School District, Moravia Central School District, Oxford Academy and Central School District, Pine Plains Central School District, Poland Central School District, Ravena Coeymans Selkirk Central School District, Sullivan West Central School District, Tupper Lake Central School District, Wayland-Cohocton Central School District, York Central School District

Purpose of Review

Using the New York State (NYS) Department of Health’s (DOH) Lead Testing in School Drinking Water Guidance Manual (DOH guidance), we assessed whether the officials at 21 school districts (together, Districts) that had 26,099 enrolled students for the 2023-24 school year:

  • Developed and maintained a sampling plan to identify all water outlets for sampling or exemption,
  • Sampled and tested all required potable water outlets for lead contamination for Cycle Two,
  • Had a remedial action plan detailing which water outlets they exempted from sampling and how they were secured against use and also which outlets exceeded the lead action level and the remedial actions taken, and,
  • Reported the testing results to all required parties within the required time periods.

For these 21 Districts we determined:

  • None sampled and tested or exempted all required potable water outlets for lead contamination in Cycle Two,
  • Only one developed and maintained a complete sampling plan,
  • Only one had a complete remedial action plan in place, and
  • Just one reported testing results to all required parties within the required timeframes.

Sampling and Testing – Of the 6,431water outlets we identified at select areas within various buildings at all 21 Districts, that students, staff and the public may have had access to and could have consumed water from, we determined:

  • 1,867 (29 percent) were not sampled for testing or properly exempted by Districts’ officials, and
  • 418 (6 percent) could not be matched to a District test result because records were not available and District officials were not certain whether appropriate remediation was completed. These water outlets were not properly secured against use during our fieldwork.

These conditions occurred because most of the Districts did not develop or maintain a complete sampling plan and did not have or maintain a complete remedial action plan.

Sampling Plans – Only one District developed and maintained a complete sampling plan to identify all water outlets for sampling or exemption, 16 did not have a sampling plan, and four had an incomplete sampling plan.

Remedial Action Plans – Only one District had a complete remedial action plan that detailed which water outlets they exempted from sampling and how they would be secured against use. Sixteen Districts had no remedial action plan and four Districts had an incomplete remedial action plan.

Reporting Testing Results – Only one of the 21 Districts properly reported testing results to the required parties for Cycle Two. The remaining 20 Districts had at least one or more issues with reporting their test results, including no reporting at all, late reporting, no documentation of reporting, no notification to staff, students’ parents and/or guardians in writing, and/or no posting of all test results on the Districts’ websites.