The Peru Gazette

“Since the beginning of this public health crisis, our students and their families have shouldered many burdens with respect to their education. With that said, our graduating seniors have truly been robbed of a once in a lifetime experience, and school districts across the state are looking for state guidance on how to properly acknowledge their accomplishments without endangering public safety.

“New York State has without a doubt been a leader throughout this crisis, however, they have failed to issue any guidance on this issue despite the fact that several other states have. New York State needs to follow suit, and they need to do so immediately so that school districts can prepare. New York State students and school districts have and continue to do their part to flatten the curve. The superintendents and school officials are doing the best possible job under these circumstances, but they need guidance to continue to ensure their students’ and their families’ safety. We must find a way to acknowledge these students’ accomplishments amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, and the guidance must come from the executive as soon as possible to assist these school districts in issuing direction.”

Source: Police charge local man for alleged threat to shoot protesters | News, Sports, Jobs – Adirondack Daily Enterprise

Governor Cuomo Tweet: “Starting tomorrow, outdoor dining will be permitted in regions that are in Phase 2 of reopening (Capital Region, Central NY, Finger Lakes, Mohawk Valley, North Country & Southern Tier). Staff must wear masks & patrons must cover face when not seated. Tables 6′ apart.”

Source: “I’m angry”: NY21 candidate Cobb attacks Stefanik on police brutality response | NCPR News

Source: Clinton County Fair organizers hopeful to open drive-in theater on fairgrounds

Source: Mall titan: Lockdown puts store operators in ‘grave danger’   | Local News | thedailystar.com

Source: Top Onondaga County lawmaker predicts layoffs after legislature balks at new energy tax – syracuse.com

Source: George Floyd’s Death Spurs Vermonters to Call for Police Reform | News | Seven Days | Vermont’s Independent Voice

HIRING CHALLENGES

The facility has 25 open positions, and over the past 30 days has experienced challenges hiring despite a much higher local unemployment percentage than prior to the pandemic.

It was suspected that increased unemployment benefits established through federal relief legislation that provide people an additional $600 per week may play a part.

Source: Stefanik tours Mold-Rite Plastics | Coronavirus | pressrepublican.com

Source: Burlington City Council postpones action on wealth tax

Source: Cuomo’s office explains why Destiny USA can’t reopen yet – syracuse.com

Source: Cluster of Covid-19 cases in Winooski hits 7 people – VTDigger

Source: Birchwood nursing home totals 21 deaths, now deemed free of Covid-19 – VTDigger

Source: Hundreds rally in Saranac Lake demanding justice for George Floyd | NCPR News

Source: Chateaugay barber retiring after 65 years | Top Stories | mymalonetelegram.com

Saratoga, NY – Congresswoman Elise Stefanik released the following statement on NY-21 law enforcement being called to serve across New York State during protests and riots:

“Americans are united in support of justice for George Floyd, his family, and in the right to peaceful protest,” said Congresswoman Stefanik. “The rioting, looting, destruction, and violence causing loss of life cannot be tolerated. Our New York State and NYC law enforcement needs support from the National Guard. I have heard from many families of North Country law enforcement this evening who are being called to their barracks and will be deployed across the state. Our entire community prays for the safety of ALL. We must end the dangerous rioting and violent destruction of lives.”

This will LIFT your SPIRIT!

Source: Joyful Noise: virtual choirs keep Dean Lichterman’s love of singing alive | NCPR News

Source: Stefanik: Police involved in George Floyd’s death should be prosecuted to the “absolute fullest extent” | NCPR News

            Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Plattsburgh) worked to pass a bill that he co-sponsored that would provide tax relief to both North Country schools and taxpayers (A.10189). The bill helps ensure that schools that have closed due to COVID-19 without the presence of a declared state of emergency will not have state aid withheld.

            “Our school districts shouldn’t have to fear cuts in state funding due to circumstances beyond their control,” Assemblyman Jones said. “Furthermore, our property taxpayers shouldn’t have to see their tax rates skyrocket to make up for this lost aid. This legislation would help provide our students with much-needed aid while also protecting North Country taxpayers from painful rate hikes during this difficult time.”

            The bill would amend Chapter 605 of 2019, which exempts school districts from a reduction in aid when the superintendent is required to close the school or schools due to a state or local declaration of emergency. The legislation clarifies that schools that choose to close out of an abundance of caution during the 2019-2020 school year due to COVID-19 will be protected from reductions in state aid.

            “North Country schools shouldn’t be penalized for taking the necessary precautions to keep our students and families safe,” Jones said. “I’ll continue to fight for our communities during these trying times.”