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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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NBC 5 Daily COVID-19 Update

The Latest
A leading coronavirus model upped its predicted death toll again, projecting 74,000 Americans will die from the virus by August. The projection was adjusted due to longer peaks in some states and signs that people are becoming more active again, according to Dr. Chris Murray, the director of the University of Washington’s Institute for Help Metrics and Evaluation. States including Georgia, Texas, Michigan, Hawaii and Alaska have begun reopening, while other states have set dates for the reopening process to begin.

Here’s what else you need to know about COVID-19 in the U.S.:

• There have been more than 1 million coronavirus cases in the United States and more than 57,000 deaths.

• Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease official, said Tuesday he’s “almost certain” the coronavirus will come back in a second wave later this year.

• President Donald Trump on Monday announced a “blueprint” to set guidance on how states should handle coronavirus, distinguishing the roles between states and the federal government.

• Admiral Brett Giroir, director of U.S. coronavirus testing, said the federal government will continue to help states procure supplies for testing, despite new guidelines that describe it as a “supplier of last resort” in obtaining tests.

Hospital Beds Needed

Just received this message from Sister Debbie Blow, Director of the North Country Mission of Hope

We received multiple requests for hospital beds today. We have none ahead. If anyone has one to donate and was “waiting” till we are officially open again, please contact us. We could use some. We also need some good quality wheelchairs. We’ve had higher demands for both.

These are essential items at this time when folks are caring for loved ones. Let us know if you can assist.

Thanks,
Sr. Debbie
518-643-5572
dshope2@charter.net

Coronavirus New York: Governor Andrew Cuomo’s 12-step plan to reopen NY – ABC7 New York

Source:coronavirus New York: Governor Andrew Cuomo’s 12-step plan to reopen NY – ABC7 New CYork

More than 1,000 prison staff contract coronavirus statewide, 20 inmates test positive in Washington County | NCPR News

Source: More than 1,000 prison staff contract coronavirus statewide, 20 inmates test positive in Washington County | NCPR News

Cuomo officials say without federal help, deep state budget cuts coming | NCPR News

Source: Cuomo officials say without federal help, deep state budget cuts coming | NCPR News

No Increase in Clinton County lab-confirmed positive cases

April 28, 2020

Lab-confirmed positive 63, Recovered 51, Deaths 3

Probable* 3, Recovered 2, Deaths 1

Suspect** 41, Recovered 40, Deaths 0

Active Cases 10

Tested 670

Plattsburgh – Clinton County Health Department (CCHD) reports that as of today, there are 10 active cases of COVID-19 in the County. Of those who were tested and were positive for COVID-19, 51 have recovered. An additional 40 individuals who were considered suspect for having COVID-19 have recovered, along with two of the probable causes. In total, since testing began, 93 people have recovered, 10 continue to have symptoms ranging from severe to mild and four have died. Reports of testing in Clinton County provided by CCHD indicate that between April 22nd and April 28th, 126 individuals have been tested. During the same time frame, 7 new cases have been reported.

“Recovery numbers are a good reminder that most of the people who contract COVID-19 will have a mild or non-life-threatening course of illness. That’s important to keep in mind,” stated John Kanoza, Director of Public Health in Clinton County.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to advise that older adults and people who have severe underlying medical conditions such as heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness. However, the CDC has also noted that younger adults are also getting COVID-19, and some are requiring hospitalization, even intensive care. (https://bit.ly/35beVyH).

“As we move forward it will be important to have plans in place to protect the most vulnerable among us. We also need to keep in mind that COVID-19 can affect anyone at any age. Residents will be asked to continue to monitor their own health and communicate symptoms to their health care providers. Businesses and organizations are being asked to have policies in place that ensure worker safety. Contact tracing will continue and community support for compliance with quarantine and isolation guidance will be needed,” stated Mr. Kanoza.

In a video briefing released today, Eric Day, Director of the Clinton County Office of Emergency Services (OES) reported that his department has supplied health care providers, emergency medical service providers and nursing homes with personal protective equipment (PPE). Cloth masks have been distributed to the nursing home and congregate-living residents, as well as to essential businesses. Earlier releases of information from the County have indicated increased testing capacity and an effective contact tracing system. Sufficient PPE and testing are among the criteria outlined by Governor Cuomo as necessary to begin resuming a more normal level of activity. Mr. Day also used the video opportunity to remind residents of the value of community efforts including physical distancing and wearing masks. Mr. Day noted, “As things begin to open up, we can’t back down. We can’t lower our guard.” The video may be accessed at https://youtu.be/EKFRILxGj2Q.

*Probable = Individuals tested for COVID-19 with inconclusive test results.
**Suspect = Individuals suspected of having COVID-19 based on clinical assessment

COVID-19 can result in severe disease, including hospitalization, admission to an intensive care unit, and death, especially among older adults. Everyone can take actions, such as social distancing…

Clinton county April 28, 2020 COVID-19 Update

VSC chancellor Spaulding to resign after campus closure backlash – VTDigger

Source: VSC chancellor Spaulding to resign after campus closure backlash – VTDigger

County takes measures to help close budget gap | Coronavirus | pressrepublican.com

Source: County takes measures to help close budget gap | Coronavirus | pressrepublican.com

Franklin County to lay off employees due to COVID-19 losses | Coronavirus | pressrepublican.com

Source: Franklin County to lay off employees due to COVID-19 losses | Coronavirus | pressrepublican.com

Administrator: 150 Clinton County employees furloughed through program | Coronavirus | pressrepublican.com

Source: Administrator: 150 Clinton County employees furloughed through program | Coronavirus | pressrepublican.com

NY pension fund to loan $50M to small, struggling businesses | Newsday

Source: NY pension fund to loan $50M to small, struggling businesses | Newsday

April 27th Blood Drive Successful

Kelly Crowley

Bob Woods

Peru – Heidi Cormier of the CVPH Blood Donor Center told the Peru Gazette this morning that yesterday’s blood drive at St. Augustine’s Parish Center was very successful. She said, “It was an awesome drive.”

Forty-one people came to the blood draw with 30 donating including six or seven first-time donors. Blood banks love first-time donors because once people discover donating is so easy they usually return. Occasionally, people aren’t able to donate because of medications, iron levels, etc.

Heidi expressed thanks to all the donors, to the Peru Knights of Columbus for hosting the drive and especially to Grand Knight Keith Kemp who stood outside all afternoon keeping people spaced and organized.

COVID-19 GLOBAL UPDATE

More than 180 nations worldwide have confirmed cases of the coronavirus. The following have the highest number as of 4 a.m. ET*:

  1. US 988,469 (+2.33%)
  2. Spain 229,422 (+1.23%)
  3. ]Italy 199,414 (+0.88%)
  4. France 165,977 (+2.32%)
  5. Germany 158,758 (+0.63%)
  6. UK 158,348 (+2.80%)
  7. Turkey 112,261 (+1.93%)
  8. Iran 91,472 (+1.10%)
  9. Russia 87,147 (+7.66%)
  10. China 83,938 (+0.03%)

Source: Johns Hopkins University

Longtime Hoosick Falls football coach Ron Jones dies | Football | poststar.com

Source: Longtime Hoosick Falls football coach Ron Jones dies | Football | poststar.com

Despite soaring unemployment, companies struggle to find workers – VTDigger

Source: Despite soaring unemployment, companies struggle to find workers – VTDigger

Burlington considering severe budget reductions caused by Covid-19 – VTDigger

Source: Burlington considering severe budget reductions caused by Covid-19 – VTDigger

Farmers have too much food to sell. New York might buy it | NCPR News

Source: Farmers have too much food to sell. New York might buy it | NCPR News

Ravens, Crows and Wolves: A harmonious group – – The Adirondack Almanack

Source: Ravens, Crows and Wolves: A harmonious group – – The Adirondack Almanack

Police searching for two suspects in deadly Burlington shooting

Source: Police searching for two suspects in deadly Burlington shooting

Wednesday’s Soup Kitchen Menu

St. Augustine’s/Peru Community Church Soup Kitchen Menu – Wednesday, April 29th

Take-out only – Served 4:30 – 5:45 p.m.

Pulled Pork
Baked Beans
Coleslaw
Cake

Section VII weighs local decision for regular seasons – Sun Community News & Printing

Source: Section VII weighs local decision for regular seasons – Sun Community News & Printing

Approved minutes of the Peru Town Board’s April 13, 2020 meeting

The regular meeting of the Peru Town Board was held on Monday, April 13, 2020, at the Peru Town Hall.  Those present were Mr. Brandy McDonald, Supervisor; Mr. Richard Barber, Councilman; Mr. Kregg Bruno, Councilman; Mr. James Douglass, Councilman; Mr. Mel Irwin, Councilman; and Mrs. Judy Akey, Deputy Town Clerk and Courtney Tetrault Water and Sewer Superintendent.  Matt Favro, Town Attorney was present via teleconference.

The meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM by Mr. McDonald, with the Pledge of Allegiance.  

Motion by Mr. Barber, seconded by Mr. Bruno, to include the reports from the following departments into the meeting record: Water/Sewer/Valcour; Highway; Dog Control; Code/Zoning Report; Supervisor’s Report; Court Reports; Web Site Report; Banking Report and Enterprise Report, Town Clerk and Youth reports. 

 Ayes 5 Nays 0 Motion Carried

Motion by Mr. Bruno; seconded by Mr. Douglass to approve the minutes from the Town Board Regular Meeting of March 23, 2020.  Ayes 5 Nays 0 Motion Carried 

Motion by Mr. Bruno; seconded by Mr. Douglass, to Waive Late Fee on W/S Billing for 90 Days.  Ayes 5 Nays 0                                                                      Motion Carried

Discussion to replace Town Hall roof and for the work to go out for bid was decided upon.  The roof is approximately 3960 sq. ft. and shingles, metal fascia and a 6ft. water barrier, similar to the Court House, will be needed.  A bid will be placed in the newspaper. Anybody with proof of insurance and workmen’s comp can bid on the project.   

Motion by Mr. Irwin; seconded by Mr. Barber, to replace Town Hall Roof and send out the project for bid.  Ayes 5 Nays 0                                                 Motion Carried

Mr. McDonald stated that the State of Emergency for the Town of Peru, due to COVID 19, has been extended for another 30 days.  He also shared information from Kelly Donoghue, of Clinton County 911 Emergency Services.

RESOLUTION NUMBER:  20.04.13.1

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE POST-AUDIT PAYMENT OF CERTAIN CLAIMS, BILLS AND INVOICES OF THE TOWN

MOTION: Mr. Richard Barber                          SECOND: Mr. Kregg Bruno

WHEREAS, the Town Board has reviewed and audited the following claims, bills and invoices for services rendered and goods provided to the Town in March 2020:

From Town of Peru Vouchers in March 2020; #20200277  through and including #202000332.

Abstract dated 3/20/2020

For the dollar amount totaling: $129,098.88; of that, $13,381.59 was wired, credit cards and prepaid; and $115,717.29 is remaining to be paid and

WHEREAS, the Town Board finds said claims, bills and invoices to be acceptable in form and reasonable in amount; 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT

RESOLVED, that payment of the aforementioned claims, bills and invoices is approved and the Supervisor be and hereby is authorized to make such payment; and be it further

RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall take effect immediately.

Roll Call: YES NO
Richard Barber, Jr. x
Kregg Bruno x
Mel Irwin x
James Douglass x
Brandy McDonald x

Carried: 5 Ayes 0 Nays

Motion by Mr. Barber; seconded by Mr. Bruno, to go into Executive Session at 6:14PM to discuss a land purchase.  Ayes 5 Nays 0                                     Motion Carried

Motion by Mr. Irwin, seconded by Mr. Douglass, to return to the regular meeting from Executive Session at 6:30PM   Ayes 5 Nays 0                                     Motion Carried

Discussion in Executive Session to purchase a parcel of land from Peru Community Church was decided on.

Motion by Mr. Barber, seconded by Mr. Bruno, to purchase a parcel of  land from Peru Community Church, for the new Peru Sewer Project, and to ask AES to provide a metes and bounds, plus two to three estimates of fair market value.

Ayes 4 Nays 0 – Mr. Douglass abstained                   Motion Carried                                           

Motion by Mr. Bruno; seconded by Mr. Douglass, to adjourn the regular meeting at 6:36PM.  

Ayes 5 Nays 0 Motion Carried

_________________________Supervisor  _________________________Councilman

_________________________Councilman _________________________Councilman

_________________________Councilman ________________________Deputy Town Clerk

A community working together for a great cause

Peru JCEO Food Shelf Outreach Worker Samantha Barton, Bob Herforth, Peru Town Supervisor Brandy McDonald, Bob Manchester

L-R Bob Manchester and Bob Herforth inventorying the food and health supplies.

By John T. Ryan

Peru – For the past several years Peru Knights of Columbus Council 7273 has conducted a Lenten food drive at St. Augustine’s Church with a goal of collecting 1,000 pounds for the Peru JCEO Food Shelf by Easter Sunday. When Governor Cuomo issued the COVID-19 ‘PAUSE’ Order on March 17th and public masses were suspended, the knights questioned if their goal was attainable. They still needed 600 pounds of food.

They didn’t have to worry. Parishioners and many other Peru residents responded to a call for help and last Friday the 1,000 pounds goal was exceeded and a campaign to collect 1,000 more pounds has begun. Each time the council collects 1,000 pounds, the Knights of Columbus Supreme Council sends the Peru Council a check for $100 which the Peru Council donates to the Food Shelf.

Food Drive Co-chairmen Knights Bob Manchester and Bob Herforth presented the $100 to JCEO Outreach Worker Samantha Barton. They also presented an extra $500 check on behalf of the Peru Council.

Manchester and Herforth expressed thanks to St. Augustine’s parishioners, the Peru community, and especially to Town Supervisor Brandy McDonald who publicized the need and picked up food and monetary donations at people’s homes. Brandy went above and beyond the call of duty.

The Knights ask everyone to please keep the food plus health and household supplies coming. Oftentimes health items are in short supply at the food shelf i.e. toothpaste, diapers, sanitary napkins, paper towels, dish detergent, toilet paper, etc. Place donations in or near the baskets inside St. Augustine’s Church entrance/narthex. Donations will be secured daily and delivered to the Peru Food Shelf each week.

Amid COVID-19 stay at home orders, North Country sees a surge in domestic violence cases | NCPR News

Source: Amid COVID-19 stay at home orders, North Country sees a surge in domestic violence cases | NCPR News