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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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Governor Andrew Cuomo COVID-19 Live Report for June 11, 2020

 

North Country Gets the Go For Phase 3 Beginning June 12th

The North Country Chamber of Commerce is welcoming the announcement that Phase Three of the business re-opening process can begin TOMORROW in the North Country region.
All Phase Three businesses are reminded that their re-opening must follow state guidelines, including affirming on-line to the guidelines for their sector and creating and having available a COVID-19 safety plan for their operation. The affirmations and the templates for plans for Phase Three businesses can now be found on the Forward NY website, and for those who haven’t taken part in one or more of the Chamber’s safety training webinars, all of them can be accessed at our website at northcountrychamber.com.
The North Country Chamber website continues to be a key online destination for finding information and links of all kinds related to the pandemic and re-opening, including access to our Daily Dose e-newsletter which is distributed Monday through Friday to almost 5,000 business and community leaders across our region and has become a go-to source of timely information and guidance.
Business Categories in Phase 3 include:
  • Food Service
  • Personal Care
Personal Services include:
  • Tattoo & Piercing Facilities
  • Appearance Enhancement Practitioners
  • Massage Therapy
  • Spas
  • Tanning
  • Cosmetology
  • Nail Specialty
  • Waxing
Public Pools & Playgrounds:
  • Public pools and playgrounds are allowed to open at the discretion of each locality.
Templates and instructions for all industries can be found at forward.ny.gov.

Up for debate: City mayor candidates discuss issues | Local News | pressrepublican.com

Source: Up for debate: City mayor candidates discuss issues | Local News | pressrepublican.com

Socially Distant, But Close to Everything

Source: Socially Distant, But Close to Everything

Adirondack Flagpoles: Passion, Pride, Perfection

Source: Adirondack Flagpoles: Passion, Pride, Perfection

Governor Andrew Cuomo June 10th COVID-19 Email

One of our goals is to take this unprecedented moment and Build Back Better. We are accelerating infrastructure improvements and construction projects from Long Island to Buffalo and continue on essential projects that will benefit the state as we enter the post-COVID new normal.
Today marked the opening of a new Arrivals and Departures Hall at LaGuardia Airport’s Terminal B. This is the biggest milestone to date in the airport’s ongoing transformation from an airport showing wear and tear to a world-class facility.
Photo of the Day: Today at LaGuardia airport in Queens, I cut the ribbon on the new Terminal B, which will open on Saturday (Photo by Kevin Coughlin)
Here’s what else you need to know tonight:
1. The deadline to submit absentee ballots has been extended to June 23rd. To be counted, primary ballots must be postmarked by June 23rd. A previously issued Executive Order allows all New Yorkers to vote absentee in the June 23rd primary elections and ensures every New Yorker registered to vote receives a postage-paid absentee ballot application in the mail.
2. New Yorkers and local governments can easily track daily COVID-19 testing results through a new dashboard. To complement the early warning dashboard, this dashboard allows people to easily track COVID-19 daily test results in your region and county. View the dashboard here.
3. In the 40 days since we launched Nourish NY, it has provided New Yorkers across the state with access to nutritious food. To date, 353 distributions have taken place, enabling more than 90,000 households to receive Nourish NY products from thousands of NY farms.
4. The total number of COVID hospitalizations continues to decline. Total hospitalizations fell to 2,190, from 2,344 the day before. Yesterday, we tested 62,297 New Yorkers and only 1% tested positive for COVID.
5. Four site-specific permanent art installations were unveiled today at the new LaGuardia Airport. These public artworks reflect the creativity, energy, culture, and spirit of the Empire State, and provide focal points of beauty in the terminal. Public art can show the world who we are and say, when you come to New York you will be amazed and inspired.
Tonight’s “Deep Breath Moment”: After almost three months of distance learning, the faculty at the Henry Viscardi School miss their students! So they recorded a video montage to share a special message with all. The K-12 school, based in Long Island, serves children with severe physical disabilities and medical complications.
If you were forwarded this email, you can subscribe to New York State’s Coronavirus Updates here.
Ever Upward,
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo

Clinton County COVID-19 June 10th Weekly Briefing

Sewer Project on Hold, Good Bond Rating, Searching for New IT Provider, Questions About Engineering Cost and More

By John T. Ryan

Peru – Peru residents will not see the expected major sewer system upgrade this year. At its Monday, June 8th meeting, the Peru Town Board unanimously rejected a $4,939,995 bid by Rifenburg Construction of Troy. The bid exceeded cost estimates by just over $1 million. Town Supervisor Brandy McDonald said COVID-19 restrictions delayed local contractors’ scheduled work; therefore, not a single local contractor submitted a bid. The Board plans to advertise for bids this October with construction in 2021. Town Attorney Matt Favro said the signed property easements expire at the end of 2020. They will have to be resigned. 

Supervisor McDonald reported that a recent meeting with municipal bond rating company S & P Global representatives went very well. S&P Global assigned Peru an A+ rating. McDonald said the S&P staff said very few towns receive such a high rating, which should result in lower interest rates for significant projects such as the sewer system upgrade. 

The Board accepted the resignation of IT provider Tom Lemieux effective at the end of June. The Board plans to interview Primelink, Inc. and Twinstate Technologies of Plattsburgh. The Board considered hiring a larger provider when they hired Lemieux in February 2019; however, the cost would have been $150 to $175 per hour plus mileage. The Town paid Lemieux $50 an hour. 

Lemieux will spend his last few weeks working to resolve software upgrades and system issues that began several weeks ago. The most severe problem involved the loss of all data from 2017 to the present. Lemieux recovered data up to March 2019 and he is working on completing the remaining restoration process. 

The Board delayed signing an annual term agreement with AES Northeast, its primary engineer on infrastructure projects such as the sewer system upgrade and complex issues at the treatment plants. Counselor Kregg Bruno said he needed more time to review the contract and commented that he isn’t happy with some of AES’ engineering charges. Bruno would like the Board to consider hiring another firm. After discussion, the Board agreed to take up the matter at its June 22nd meeting. Bruno agreed with other counselors that AES should continue as the primary engineer on its ongoing projects. The Board did approve a short-term AES contract to resolve EPA compliance issues at the water treatment plant. The problem involves filter backwashing, not drinking water quality. 

It appears that asphalt will replace the brick pavers in front of the Town Hall. Salt applications have deteriorated the pavers since their 2014 installation. The Board decided to contact Fuller Construction to determine the cost of asphalt paving and packing.  

Code Enforcement Officer Bob Guynup will administer NYS COVID-19 restaurant reopening regulations. Currently, restaurants can offer take-out service and restricted outdoor dining. Livingoods plans to erect a tent in its parking lot. Barriers must protect diners in an outdoor eating area. 

Over 100 property owners made their voices heard at three Board of Assessment Review hearings. In a typical year, the five-member Board accomplishes its duties in one session; however, a major property reassessment this year resulted in higher assessments for several taxpayers. The additional hearings raised the Town’s hearing cost from $1,100 to $1,700. 

Supervisor McDonald informed the Board that an NYSEG LED lighting program will permit the Town to install LED street light lamps at a cost not to exceed $2,788.85. After learning the bulbs should cut electricity costs by at least one-half, the Board quickly approved participation in the program.

Clinton County June 10th COVID-19 Report – All No Change Except Active Cases -1, Recovered +1, Tested +105

Vermont plans to reopen K-12 classrooms in the fall – VTDigger

Source: Vermont plans to reopen K-12 classrooms in the fall – VTDigger

Peru High School Senior Parade 2020 Drone Video

DOL: Unemployment claims in the North Country up nearly 800% from last year | NCPR News

Source: DOL: Unemployment claims in the North Country up nearly 800% from last year | NCPR News

Governor Cuomo’s June 9th COVID Email to New Yorkers

Now that the whole state has begun reopening, we are closely monitoring each region to make sure we don’t see any spikes in COVID cases. Our strategy from the outset was a data and fact-based approach and we continue to apply that same approach as we move New York forward. We are seeing spikes in other states like Florida, and in countries around the globe, which is a very real reason we must be watchful. Just because we reopen does not mean that we need to experience a spike. That’s why we must continue to be smart and diligent.
Stop the Spread Campaign.
Tip of the Day: Wear a mask to stop the spread.
Here’s what else you need to know tonight:
1. The Mid-Hudson Valley entered Phase 2 of reopening today. Long Island will enter Phase 2 tomorrow, June 10th. You can read more about our New York Forward guidance for Phase 2 here.
2. The new deadline for filing property tax abatements is July 15, 2020. Yesterday, I signed legislation authorizing local governments to extend this deadline in recognition of the hardships many families and businesses continue to face as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
3. New York, in partnership with CORE, has established 11 new testing sites in communities that have been particularly impacted by COVID-19. CORE (Community Organized Relief Effort) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to saving lives and strengthening communities affected by or vulnerable to crises.
4. Metro-North has taken unprecedented steps in preparing for riders’ return to the service. Trains and stations are cleaned and disinfected nightly, and the state is delivering 500,000 cloth masks, as well as 10,000 gallons and 100,000 2-oz. bottles of hand sanitizer to the railroad. Remember: You MUST wear a mask when riding public transportation systems — it’s mandatory and a sign of respect for your fellow riders.
5. Testing remains a top priority. There are now more than 800 COVID-19 testing sites across the state. More information on where and how to get tested for COVID-19 is available at coronavirus.health.ny.gov.
Tonight’s “Deep Breath Moment”: Antonio Gwynn Jr., a Buffalo, NY high school senior, spent 10 hours, by himself, cleaning up damage from protests in the city. In recognition of his selfless work for his community, he was rewarded with a car and a college scholarship from Medaille College.
If you were forwarded this email, you can subscribe to New York State’s Coronavirus Updates here.
Ever Upward,
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo

Assemblyman Billy Jones June 9th COVID-19 Update

COVID-19 June 9 Updates

Phase 3 Guidelines

Future guidelines for Phase 3 are now available on the NY-Forward website.

Please note that this does not mean that the North Country has been cleared to open under Phase 3- these guidelines were released so that we can prepare to move into Phase 3.

Food Services Information

Personal Care Information

Outdoor Recreational Sports Guidelines

Last week, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that outdoor low-risk recreational activities will be permitted under Phase Two.

The Empire State Development recently released those guidelines, and the following are considered essential under Recreation:

Parks and other open public spaces, except playgrounds and other areas of congregation where social distancing cannot be abided

Outdoor, low-risk recreational activities are permitted so long as social distancing and cleaning/disinfecting measures are in place:
  • Tennis
  • Batting cages
  • Aerial rope courses or zip lining
  • Rope courses including aerial rope courses
  • Toss/bowl games, such horseshoes, bocce, bean bag toss, croquet
  • Shuffleboard
  • Shooting ranges
  • Swim classes and swim instruction
  • Flying disc games, such as disc golf and frisbee
  • Non-motorized boat use and rentals, such as rowboats, kayaks, canoes
  • Golf and driving ranges, except miniature (mini) golf, with food and retail services subject to the restrictions that are currently in effect within the region.
  • Drive-in movie theaters so long as social distancing and cleaning/disinfecting measures are in place.
  • Marinas, boatyards, and recreational marine manufacturers, for ongoing marina operations and boat repair/maintenance, where such facilities adhere to strict social distancing and sanitization protocols.
  • In regions that are not within the first phase of the state’s regional reopening plan, use of such sites for the purposes of personal use or operation of boats or other watercraft is permissible, provided that no establishment offer chartered motorized watercraft services or motorized boat rentals.
  • Restaurant activity at such sites are limited to take-out or delivery only.

NY-Forward Statewide Guidelines

The NY-Forward has a section on its website that includes statewide guidelines in industries that were not covered under certain phases- such as dentistry, religious and funeral services, and racing activities.

Guidelines for child care and day camps were recently added to the website.

Child Care and Day Camps

A

Police Reform Legislation Moves Swiftly Through New York State Legislature | NCPR News

Source: Police Reform Legislation Moves Swiftly Through New York State Legislature | NCPR News

Four new members nominated to the Adirondack Park Agency board | NCPR News

Source: Four new members nominated to the Adirondack Park Agency board | NCPR News

Americans can visit family in Canada – but they’ll have to quarantine for two weeks | NCPR News

Source: Americans can visit family in Canada – but they’ll have to quarantine for two weeks | NCPR News

Clinton County June 9th COVID-19 Report – Positive +0, Probable +0, Recovered +1, Tested +220

St. Augustine’s Church to Resume Pubic Masses This Weekend

Peru Gazette File Photo

This message was emailed to parishioners this morning.
 
We will begin public Mass again this weekend; however, we MUST abide by the guidelines of public worship. Please read the below notice from our Diocese carefully.
Good afternoon!
 
It will be wonderful to see you and once again be in the presence of Christ.
 
Before we begin the celebration, We would like to review with you the precautions we are implementing to keep us all safe and healthy.
 
First and foremost: Anyone who is at higher risk or is feeling sick should remain at home. Anyone who has been in close contact with a COVID positive individual should self-quarantine for 14 days. We encourage all parishioners to heed this directive.
 
You will need to “sign-in” when you arrive at church. PLEASE keep social distancing in mind as you enter the church. If you are with your family, please sign in as a family. i.e. “The John Doe Family”. If you are attending as an individual, please sign in as yourself. i.e. “Jane Doe”.
 
Ushers will be available to help you at all times.
 
During Mass, please respect signage and markers placed to assure safe social distancing by maintaining at least a six-foot distance from others outside of your household. Please wear your mask. Members of a single household do not need to practice social distancing in church, they may sit together, but everyone must wear a mask.
 
There will be no offertory procession, no holding of hands during the Our Father and no Sign of Peace. It is important that we keep a healthy social distance whenever possible and that we wear face masks when it is not possible.
 
We will not pass the collection basket. The collection basket will be at the exits of the Church, please continue to support our parish financially by either using electronic giving, mailing your gift, or placing your envelope in baskets available at the exits of the church.
 
The bulletin will be available at the exits of the church.
 
The celebrant and assisting ministers will perform hand hygiene after receiving Communion and prior to distributing Communion.
 
For Holy Communion, remove your face covering prior to approaching for Communion. Please receive Communion in the hand. Replace your mask after receiving Communion. Scientists tell us that momentary interaction, like receiving Communion, presents an acceptable risk, especially if you sanitize your hands before leaving the church and the priest or minister sanitizes their hands before distributing Communion.
 
The cup will not be offered.
 
Once you have received Holy Communion, please move directly to the exits of the Church. There are two exits; one to the left and one to the right (behind the organ). Maintain social distancing inside and outside of the church. Once you are outside, go directly to your vehicles and leave. Do not gather in the parking lot.
 
Thank you for your patience and understanding. All are asked to follow these guidelines because that is the only way to stay healthy and respect the health of others.
 
Let us seek the intercession of Saint Joseph, protector of the Church, as we come together.
 
In His Peace
God Bless

Governor Andrew Cuomo Live June 9, 2020

G

Stefanik Cosponsors Great American Outdoors Act

From the office of Congresswoman Elise Stefanik

Saratoga, NY – Congresswoman Elise Stefanik is cosponsoring the Great American Outdoors Act, bipartisan legislation that supports the National Parks and Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund. This will support the nearly $22 billion backlog of deferred maintenance projects on federal lands and also makes funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) permanent. This bill is the House companion legislation to the Great American Outdoors Act introduced in the Senate (S. 3422) by Sens. Cory Gardner (R-C0) and Joe Manchin (D-WV).

“This important legislation will not only restore our national park and public lands, preserve our natural landscape, and protection recreation areas, but it will also create jobs in our communities,” said Congresswoman Stefanik. “As Co-chair of the Roosevelt Conservation Caucus, I have been a longtime advocate for permanently authorizing the Land and Water Conservation Fund as well as the Restore Our Parks Act, which are both included in this bill. President Trump has called on Congress to pass this legislation, and I am very encouraged by the Senate moving this forward and a House companion bill gaining strong bipartisan support. I will continue to work to protect our natural and historic areas that are so important to the culture of the North Country.”

NYS Posts Phase 3 Guidelines

Taken from the North Country Chamber of Commerce Website, a Great Resource
 While Phase Three is not in effect yet, Phase Three Guidelines for FOOD SERVICE and PERSONAL SERVICES are now posted on the Forward.ny.gov website.
Personal Services Include:
  • Tattoo & Piercing Facilities
  • Appearance Enhancement Practitioners
  • Massage Therapy
  • Spas
  • Tanning
  • Cosmetology
  • Nail Specialty
  • Waxing
These Guidelines do not substitute for the Guidelines for Hair Salons/Barber Shops but are in addition if they engage in any of these added services.
NOTE: Phase three has NOT started yet, but we welcome the posting of the guidelines ahead of the start. Restaurants/Food Services and Personal Services should read and affirm the updated Guidelines and either update or create their Safety Plan while awaiting the start of Phase Three, hoping in a matter of days but with no firm date.

Hundreds of Burlington residents call for defunding police department  – VTDigger

Source: Hundreds of Burlington residents call for defunding police department – VTDigger

BUDGET VOTE CHANGED – GOVERNOR TO EXTEND SCHOOL BUDGET VOTING TO JUNE 16TH

Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced in a news release Sunday that he would issue an executive order extending the deadline for school election ballots sent via mail. Executive Order No. 202.39 now allows the school district to receive absentee ballots until 5:00 PM on June 16th, if sent by mail. The public may now view the live canvassing of the entire ballot lot on June 16th.
Peru Central School District
District Office
Sherri Provost,
District Clerk, Secretary to the Superintendent of Schools, Records Management Officer

This is what people in the Auburn, NY think of the North Country

Posted on Facebook’s “Saranac Past” page by Tim Bell

This isn’t a post about just Saranac but about the whole region in North Eastern NY.

I’m from Saranac but currently, work in Auburn. After the escape from Clinton, more than a few officers from Auburn went up to Clinton to help find the escaped inmates.

This story is about the people up there in that area. Saranac, Dannemora, Cadyville, Morrisonville, Chazy, Redford and others….

Officers at Auburn continue to talk about the kindness of the people in the area where I grew up. One officer would say that a couple would drive up to a checkpoint with coolers filled with ice-cold drinks to give to the officers. Another woman showed up with new socks for everyone. After a long day, a few officers were looking to get a few drinks and hang out. A guy invited those officers to his garage and shared some cold drinks. Others provided food.

Time and time again the people of the North Country came through. One Officer at Auburn said it best when he said “The state of NY didn’t care about us. The people up there cared about us.” I have heard repeatedly through the years from all officers that were up there as to how nice everyone was. It makes me proud to be from that area.

Hats off to all of you.