left, Jaedan Eilers, Olivia Woods, Haley Hickey, Sam Fath, Megan Derushia, Marley Johnson and Quinn Gowett.

Majority of graduates remain in region to launch rewarding health care careers 

PLATTSBURGH, NY – Four of the seven recent graduates of the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) School of Radiologic Technology have joined the health system to begin a rewarding health care career in the North Country.

Celebrated at the June 26 ceremonies held at CVPH were Megan A. Derushia, Lisbon, NY, Jaeden A. Eilers, West Chazy, Samuel W. Fath, Colchester, VT, Quinlan G. Gowett, Mechanicville, NY, Haley E. Hickey, AuSable Forks, Marley E. Johnson, Brunswick, GA and Olivia G. Woods, Massena. As graduates, each has earned an associate’s degree in math, science and technology from Empire State College and are prepared to sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist (ARRT) examination.

Eilers, Hickey and Woods have joined the CVPH Radiology team while Fath is employed by the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, VT.

The CVPH School of Radiologic Technology is one of many career opportunities offered by the UVM Health Network Center for Workforce Development. The Center is helping to ease the workforce shortage in the region by offering innovative and affordable career advancement opportunities to current health system employees and job seekers. A complete listing of available programs can be found online at uvmhealthnetworkcareers.org/training-programs.html.

Established in 1965, the CVPH School of Radiologic Technology is a two-year comprehensive program that incorporates class time and practical experience to train radiographers dedicated to delivering exceptional patient care. It is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology and approved by the New York State Department of Health to train radiographers eligible for a New York State license. The school has been recognized for its excellent pass rate received on the examination given by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (AART). For more information, call 518-562-7510 or go online to UVMHealth.org/CVPH.

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DEC Forest Rangers and Lands and Forest Staff Deployed to Two Different Fires

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that 11 New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Forest Rangers and Lands and Forests staff are traveling to Colorado to support ongoing efforts to contain wildland fires raging in the state. Wildland firefighters were deployed this week for an anticipated two-week assignment.

“New Yorkers are always ready to volunteer when other states need our help,” Governor Hochul said. “We’re fortunate to have well-trained incident command and wildland firefighting experts in New York State to lend emergency assistance and support. I thank all the responders working the fires for their efforts and look forward to their safe return.”

Lisa Carylon is from Geneva, NY

Lisa’s Carlyon’s sunrise on Lake Champlain

Mary Freida and Lisa Carlyon arrived at Ausable Point at 4:30 a.m. to capture our beautiful sunrise.

By John T Ryan

Early this morning at Ausable Point, several artists were enjoying the stunning scenery of our region. These talented individuals are part of the 40 artists participating in the Keeseville Community Arts Festival.

On Friday and Saturday, you can view their landscape and architectural paintings at the Plein Air Show and Sale, held at the Old Stone Mill, located at 126 Sable Street. Paintings will be available for purchase from the opening reception on Friday, which runs from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., through Saturday afternoon from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. There is a suggested donation of $15 at the door, which includes a limited-edition KEESEVILLE glass and a complimentary beverage from Ausable Brewing Company. A portion of the artwork sales and donations will benefit AdkAction.

The Plein Air art program is just one aspect of Keeseville’s Community Festival. The event also features pottery demonstrations, a 5K color run, plein air painting sessions, a dye workshop for kids, barn quilt making, a free ice cream bar, live music and performances, and much more. For more information about all the activities, please visit https://www.adkaction.org/keeseville-community-arts-festival/.By John T Ryan

Janet Arsenault from Frederick, Maryland looked westward with the Adirondacks in the distance.

Wickham Marsh attracted Katie Langford of Glens Falls, NY.

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July 16, 2025

July 15, 2025

The 2026 property tax levy growth will be capped at 2% for local governments that operate on a calendar-based fiscal year, according to data released today by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. This figure affects tax cap calculations for all counties, towns, and fire districts, as well as 44 cities and 13 villages.

“Allowable tax levy growth will be limited to 2% for a fifth consecutive year,” DiNapoli said. “The challenge for local governments will be maintaining essential local services within this cap, while still dealing with higher prices for commodities and services and the potential impact of policy choices at the federal level.”

In accordance with state law, DiNapoli’s office calculated the 2026 inflation factor at 2.64% for those local governments with a calendar fiscal year, above the 2% allowable levy increase.

The tax cap, which first applied to local governments (excluding New York City) and school districts in 2012, limits annual tax levy increases to the lesser of the rate of inflation or 2% with certain exceptions. The law also includes a provision that allows municipalities to override the cap.

Chart 
Allowable Tax Levy Growth Factors for Local Governments

Conversation takes place in Hemmingford, PQ. 

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Avalanche Pass Trail Closed to Protect Public Safety; Slide on Mount Colden Impacting Access

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced the closure of the Avalanche Pass Trail in Keene, Essex County, after recent rainstorm events resulted in mud and rockslides. The closure affects the portion of the Avalanche Pass Trail from the intersection with the Lake Arnold Trail to the southern end of Avalanche Lake. DEC staff are working to assess the damage and condition of the area impacted by the mud and rockslides. Hikers should avoid the area until the trail reopens. 

Impacted routes include the passage south to Lake Colden area from the Adirondak Loj, and loop routes over Algonquin Peak, Mount Colden, and Mount Marcy back to the Adirondak Loj through Avalanche Pass. An alternate route through Lake Arnold is possible but hikers are advised conditions are extremely wet and muddy. DEC will provide updates once the trails are reopened.

In addition, a slide on the southeast side of Mount Colden into Feldspar/Lake Arnold trail in Keene, Essex County, resulted in trail blockage. A short bushwhack around debris is necessary to continue on the trail. Hikers are encouraged to take extreme caution if seeking alternate routes or navigating debris. DEC staff are checking other trails in the High Peaks for storm damage or slide impacts that could potentially require trail closures or cleanup work that could impact usage. 

Hikers are advised to check the Adirondack Backcountry Information webpages for updates on trail conditions, seasonal road closures, and general recreation information for the Adirondacks.

View the HikeSmartNY webpage for detailed information on safety and preparedness and what to do in case of an emergency in the backcountry.

Love our New York lands by finding alternate forms of sustainable outdoor recreation, always practicing Leave No TraceTM, and giving back through volunteer work and stewardship. Visit DEC’s website for more information about recreating responsi

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Triple Crown Finale Brings Big Thrills to Plattsburgh City Beach

The final round of the East Coast Watercross Triple Crown is making a splash on the Adirondack Coast August 1–3, 2025, as 100 of the country’s top racers hit the water at Plattsburgh City Beach for a high-octane weekend of jet ski racing, freestyle stunts, and adrenaline-fueled action.

Athletes from Florida, Texas, Wisconsin, Arizona—and even Canada—will take on a wild 30-buoy course in pursuit of podium finishes and their share of a prize pot totaling around $25,000. Triple Crown points have been building all season long, with earlier rounds in Alabama and Michigan. The final stop in Plattsburgh is where it all gets decided.

Racing runs from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM each day, and spectators can expect fast-paced, edge-of-your-beach-chair excitement from start to finish. While there’s no formal freestyle competition this year, a midday freestyle show will give fans a taste of the jaw-dropping tricks that make this sport so spectacular.

And best of all? It’s totally free to watch (just bring a beach parking pass!). Limited-edition merchandise will be available for purchase on-site, making it easy to bring home a piece of the action.

📍 Location: Plattsburgh City Beach, 4 Beach Road, Plattsburgh, NY
📅 Dates: August 1–3, 2025
🕙 Time:

• Friday, August 1: Practice Day | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
• Saturday, August 2: Race Day | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Sunday, August 3: Race Day | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM à Be sure to treat yourself to a tasty lunch from the Adirondack Food Therapy food truck—serving up delicious eats on Sunday!

💵 Note: Regular beach parking rates apply.

Whether you’re a die-hard motorsports fan or just looking for an epic way to spend a summer weekend, Watercross at the Beach is one you won’t want to miss.

Learn more at goadirondack.com/watercross! 

Plan your summer getaway now at goadirondack.com and experience why Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Coast are the ultimate freshwater destination for adventure, sport, and family fun.

A Peru Town Board Work Session has been scheduled pn July 22 at 4PM at the Peru Town Hall.

Credit Helps Address Connection Between Extreme Heat and Worker Health and Safety, as Highlighted by NYSIF’s 2024 Report

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of the New York State Insurance Fund (NYSIF)’s new Extreme Heat Equipment Credit. The credit helps qualifying small businesses protect their workers through the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE) and supplies designed to minimize the effects of heat exposure.

“Extreme weather events have unfortunately become our new normal, and here in New York, we are prioritizing resources to help our small businesses and workers statewide,” Governor Hochul said. “Our hardworking employees across the state deserve to have access to necessary benefits in instances of heat-related illnesses, especially those who work long hours outdoors.”

With 2024 being the hottest year on record, and each year between 2015-24 ranking among the 10 hottest years on record, rising temperatures have become a critical occupational hazard for many industries. Extreme heat can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion and can exacerbate preexisting conditions such as asthma, kidney disease, or heart disease. Exposure to extreme heat can also impair cognitive and motor functions, increasing the risk of on-the-job accidents.

The NYSIF Extreme Heat Equipment Credit is available to small businesses — up to 10 employees — in manufacturing, warehousing, carpentry, landscaping and farming; industries where workers are often exposed to extreme temperatures. These businesses can receive a one-time credit of $1,000 or 10 percent of their annual workers’ compensation premium, whichever is less, toward the purchase of PPE designed to protect workers from the effects of extreme heat.

Today’s initiative is the latest in NYSIF’s commitment to promote worker safety and combat the effects of climate change. NYSIF recently expanded its Climate Action Premium Credit to additional providers of health care services as well as entities engaged in the medical supply chain. The program provides financial incentives and technical support for climate action planning and implementation.

Eligible purchases under the NYSIF Extreme Heat Equipment Credit program include but are not limited to fans, ventilation systems, cooling vests, ventilated hard hats, UV-resistant safety glasses, and cooling towels. NYSIF policyholders that qualify can apply for the credit on the NYSIF website at nysif.com/ppe.

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