PLATTSBURGH, March 3, 2026 – Active educators in Clinton and Essex Counties are invited to apply for a $1000 grant that will assist them in their classroom endeavors. The local association of the Retired Educators of New York (RENY), known as the Northeastern Zone (NEZ), will offer the Kramer Memorial Educator Award of $1000 to be awarded to a local educator.
This biennial award honors Dr. Karl Kramer, former professor and mentor to Education Majors at SUNY Plattsburgh, and long time devoted member of the Northeastern Zone of RENY. The grant is designed to assist active educators in developing and implementing an innovative program or project.
To be eligible for the grant, an educator must be a full time teacher, nurse, counselor, or administrator in a public school district in the Northeastern Zone region, Clinton and Essex counties (Lake Placid, Minerva, Newcomb). The full grant amount must be used for a program or project to improve instruction, academic achievement, or in support of a current issue in a classroom, school, or district. The grant is for the 2026-2027 school year. The winner of the grant will be determined by the end of June, 2026.
Informational packets with directions and contact information were sent electronically to District Superintendents in March, 2026 for distribution to educators in their districts. Please contact your Superintendent’s Office for information packets if you didn’t receive one. Additionally, links for the application can be found on the NEZ (https://www.renynez.com) and NCTRC websites (https://www.northcountrytrc.com). Grant applications must be submitted electronically to the Educator Award Committee by May 16, 2026.
Posted: March 3rd, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Education News, General News, Northern NY News, Service Org News.
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March 12th, 2:30 pm, Meadowbrook Healthcare, 154 Prospect Avenue, Plattsburgh. Welcome to the Witherill with memories shared from the book authored by the late Susan Howel Hamlin.
March 12, 6 pm, Advisor’s Room, Beekmantown High School, Haynes Road Entrance, West Chazy– The Davidson Sisters: Darkness and Light. Local teenaged poets and sisters, Lucretia and Margaret Davidson, were once known nationwide as tragic and romantic figures in the literary world. Through anecdotal stories, journal entries, letters, and their own works, Author Lisabeth Guay will share insights into who these two extraordinary young ladies of Plattsburgh once were. Seating is limited. Call 518-561-0340 before January 21 to reserve a seat.
March 20th, 12:30 pm, Plattsburgh Senior Center, 5139 North Catherine Street, Plattsburgh. Struggle in the Snow: The Storming of Quebec with Thaddeus Booth-Trudo. New Year’s Eve 2025 was the 250th Anniversary of the attempted storming of Quebec City by American forces under the command of Generals Richard Montgomery and Benedict Arnold. Learn more about this event and the brave patriots who participate in this early revolutionary war battle.
March 31st, 6:45 pm, Lake Forest Retirement Community, 8 Lake Forest Drive, Plattsburgh. The Clinton County Suffrage Story with Helen Nerska. After nearly 70 years of persuasion, New York State allowed women to vote in all elections. Hear the stories of the many Clinton County women and men who dedicated themselves to achieving this right for women.
Posted: March 3rd, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, City News, Community Events, National History, Northern NY News, Peru/Regional History.
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Customers invited to round up purchases during March to fund critical community services
Schenectady, N.Y., March 2, 2025– Market 32 and Price Chopper are inviting customers to round up their purchase total to the nearest dollar at checkout to benefit local United Way chapters and the various nonprofit partners they help support across the chain’s six-state footprint. The campaign runs now through March 31.
Funds raised will help advance United Way’s work addressing critical community needs, including food insecurity, housing stability, access to education, childcare, and financial empowerment programs that support individuals and families.
“United Way works at the heart of communities to identify urgent needs and mobilize resources where they can make the greatest impact,” said Pam Cerrone, director of community relations for Market 32 and Price Chopper. “Every donation—often just a few cents—adds up quickly to help fund essential services. And because funds raised stay local, customers can feel confident their contributions are directly helping neighbors in the same communities where they live, work, and shop.”
United Way partners with a broad network of vetted nonprofit agencies to ensure resources are distributed effectively and strategically. In addition to funding direct services, United Way convenes community
Posted: March 3rd, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Business News, Charity Events, Community Events, General News, Northern NY News, Regional NY-VT News, Upstate New York.
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Spaghetti
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!
Posted: March 2nd, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Community Events, General News, Northern NY News, Peru News.
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By John T Ryan
Peru, NY – The Peru Town Board conducted a Regular Meeting on February 23, 2026, following the Water Treatment Plant Improvement Project Public Hearing. The board approved a resolution to move forward with the $9.4 million treatment plant project. Previously, the board applied for and received a $5 million NYS Environmental Facilities Corporation (NYSEFC) Water Improvement grant. Thanks to residents responding to an income survey the board authorized, Peru qualified for a 30-year, 0% NYSEFC hardship loan. Nevertheless, $4.4 million of the $9.4 million project will have to be financed. The estimated annual cost per equivalent housing unit is $452.98 based on 822 housing units in the water district. The ultimate cost to the taxpayer will depend on their property’s assessed value. The Clinton County Health Department mandated that the water district improve water clarity/turbidity.
At a May 2024 public hearing, Barton and Loguidice engineer John Frazer Jr. said that more severe storms have resulted in high turbidity over the past two decades, and many communities are experiencing the same issues. Barton and Loguidice recommended installing clarification equipment that will function before the existing filtration process. They also recommended drilling an on-site well. The plant’s new equipment will mix the well water with water from the existing reservoir. Frazer said the additional process would require more staffing once it’s online.
The Board awarded the Lyons Road culvert replacement project to Ed Garrow & Sons, the low bidder at $317,205. Highway Superintendent Michael Farrell estimates that Lyons Road will be closed to traffic for approximately 30 days. He’s not sure when Garrow will begin construction.
Once the Telegraph Road culvert/bridge is replaced the town plans to transfer ownership to Clinton County because the County would assume future maintenance, guide rail and bridge replacement costs. The county requires that an engineer be on-site during the bridge’s construction to ensure it conforms to county requirements. At a previous meeting, Highway Superintendent Michael Farrell reported that an on-site inspector would cost $250,000. Farrell sought more quotes and at this meeting he informed the board that M J Engineering quoted $80,000 which the board voted to approve. Luck Brothers is expected to begin the project as soon as the weather permits.
Deputy Highway Superintendent Tyler Jarvis described the in-house truck maintenance work he and his staff are performing to keep expenses down. Recently, they replaced a truck’s front end, radiator, and water pump. Jarvis would like to purchase an engine analysis computer. He is researching the available equipment and the cost. Repairing equipment in-house is much less expensive than relying on dealer maintenance.
Peru Free Library member Rocky Divoll presented library statistical data to the board and reported, “The library is holding its own. Donations are down quite a bit. Our librarian Stacey Bousquet is doing a fabulous job. Everyone is invited to attend board meetings.” Supervisor Craig Randall commented on the library’s excellent programs and how much the library adds to the quality of life in Peru. The town and school are the library’s primary revenue sources. Library board meetings are the 2nd Thursday of each month at 7 p.m.
Click here to go to the library’s excellent website. At 6:43 p.m., the board adjourned to executive session to discuss potential litigation. Supervisor Craig Randall said he didn’t expect any actions to be taken following the executive session.
Posted: March 1st, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Community Events, County Government News, Environmental News, General News, Highway Dept. News, Northern NY News, Peru Library News, Peru News, Peru/Regional History, Town Board News, Water & Sewer Dept. News.
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Peru, NY – On February 23, at 5:45 p.m. The Peru Town Board held its second 202-B NYS Town Law 202-B Public Hearing regarding the Peru Water Treatment Plant Improvement Project. A similar hearing was conducted in May of 2024; however, the board wanted to ensure that the required public notice was given, hence, it concurs this hearing.
The proposed improvements would improve water quality by treating turbidity in the raw water source. The attached Barton and Loguidice Engineering Report was available for review.
The report states that maximum amount to be expended for the improvements is $9.4 million. Assuming receipt of a 50% NYS Environmental Facilities Corporation Water Water Infrastructure Improvement (WIIA) grant and a 0% hardship 30-year loan, the average annual cost per equivalent dwelling unit would be $452.98. The tax ultimately paid by the taxpayer is dependent on a property’s assessed value. As usual, no one questioned the board. The meeting adjourned at 5:52 p.m.
Posted: March 1st, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Community Events, Northern NY News, Peru News, Peru/Regional History, Water & Sewer Dept. News.
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Posted: March 1st, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Education News, Faces of Peru, National History, National News, Northern NY News, Peru News, Peru resident news/accomplishments, Peru School News, Peru/Regional History, Sports News.
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Senator Dan Stec (R,C-Queensbury) today issued the following statement concerning the leaked NYSERDA memo outlining the exorbitant implementation costs of the CLCPA:
“The leaked memo from Governor Hochul’s handpicked head of NYSERDA is a bombshell and a scathing indictment of the CLCPA.
“Because of it, Upstate New Yorkers can expect their energy costs to rise an average of $4,000 per household and gas prices can rise to over $5 a gallon as a direct result of these green energy policies. These numbers, which come directly from NYSERDA President and CEO Doreen M. Harris, highlights the reality of what my Senate Republican Conference colleagues and I have been saying for years: The CLCPA is going to drive up costs and crush our families and small businesses.
“What’s even worse is that in a recent City & State article, Senate Democrats made it clear that they have no intentions of making any changes to the unaffordable and unfeasible CLCPA in the upcoming budget.
“At a time when, according to a recent Marist poll, one-in-three New Yorkers plan to move out of the state due to the escalating cost of living, perhaps my colleagues on the other side of the aisle should reconsider their position and put an end to the failing CLCPA mandates.
Editor’s Note – On Monday the Peru Gazette will ask for Mr. Stec for a comment regarding Republican efforts to combat climate change.
Posted: February 28th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Environmental News, Northern NY News, Political News, State Legislator News.
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Posted: February 28th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Business News, Environmental News, General News, National News, Northern NY News, Peru/Regional History, Political News, State Government News, Statewide News.
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 SARATOGA, N.Y., February 28, 2026 – Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership, released the following statement:
“As a senior Member of the House Armed Services Committee and the House Select Committee on Intelligence, I have always been consistent that Iran cannot have nuclear weapons capabilities that would threaten the national security of the United States. Iran is the world’s largest sponsor of terror and has targeted, killed, and wounded U.S. service members and civilians throughout the Middle East over the past decades including soldiers from the 10th Mountain Division. Additionally, the sick Iran regime controlled by the blood-thirsty ayatollah terrorists have destroyed a nation, continued to pursue nuclear weapons threatening America and all of humanity, slaughtered innocent Iranians, and shed blood across the Middle East including of Americans.
I know President Trump has to make some of the most difficult decisions imaginable and there is no decision more serious that military action to protect our national security and American lives.
God Bless our brave men and women in uniform. The American people are praying for your safety.” |
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Posted: February 28th, 2026 under Congressional News, National History, National News, Northern NY News, Political News.
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Photo provided
Westport, NY – The Mental Health Association (MHA) proudly celebrates 60 years of dedicated service to the community on March 3, 2026. For six decades, MHA has remained committed to promoting mental wellness, supporting recovery, and providing compassionate, person-centered services to individuals and families across the region.
Founded in 1966, MHA has grown from a small community initiative into a comprehensive behavioral health organization offering a wide range of services. Throughout its history, the agency has expanded programs to meet emerging community needs while remaining steadfast in its mission to ensure that mental health support is accessible, responsive, and stigma-free.
Over the years, MHA has developed and strengthened programs including crisis response, opioid response, care coordination, housing support, peer services, community education initiatives, and other services such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The organization continues to adapt and innovate to address the evolving mental health landscape while maintaining a strong foundation of compassion and advocacy.
Among one of its most impactful services is it’s operation of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, providing 24/7 crisis counseling and emotional support.
MHA proudly serves as the regional 988 contact center covering Franklin, Essex, Clinton, and Hamilton Counties in Northern New York. Read more »
Posted: February 28th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Community Events, County Government News, Heathcare News, Northern NY News, Peru/Regional History, Upstate New York.
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Sun Community News photo
PLATTSBURGH, NY, February 27, 2026 – The Plattsburgh Polar Plunge benefiting Special Olympics New York will take place on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Plattsburgh City Beach on Lake Champlain. Hundreds of participants from across the North Country are expected to take the icy leap in support of local athletes with intellectual disabilities.
The Polar Plunge is one of the region’s most anticipated winter fundraising events, bringing together community members, law enforcement agencies, schools, businesses, and families to make a direct impact on the lives of more than 50,000 Special Olympics athletes across New York State — including hundreds right here in the North Country.
Every dollar raised stays local and helps provide:
- Free year-round sports training and competition
- Health screenings and wellness programs
- Unified sports opportunities in schools
- Leadership and life-skills development for athletes
There is no cost to athletes or families to participate in Special Olympics programs, thanks to the generosity of supporters and plungers who are willing to take the icy challenge.
Participants can register as individuals or form teams, set fundraising goals, earn incentives, and enjoy a high-energy atmosphere filled with music, costumes, and community spirit before taking the plunge into the waters of Lake Champlain
Event Details:
📍 Plattsburgh City Beach – Lake Champlain
📅 Saturday, March 28, 2026
🕘 Registration and festivities begin at 10AM with Plunge beginning at 12 Noon.
Community members who may not wish to plunge are encouraged to attend, cheer on participants, volunteer, or support a local team.
Jarrod Trombley
Chief of Police
Posted: February 28th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Charity Events, Community Events, General News, Lake Champlain News, Law Enforcement News, Northern NY News.
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February, 28, 2026, Sections VII Facebook page – Tonight before the finals at the NYS Wrestling Championships, Coach Mike Hogan was again honored with a NYS Hall of Fame induction. He was already inducted into the 