The Peru Gazette

Cannon discovered in Valcour Bay launched detailed underwater research

Click here for the Sun Community News story 

$75 Million Available for Police Departments and Sheriffs’ Offices Through the LETECH Grant Program and Another $25 Million Will Fund a New Statewide Records Management System

Albany, July 6, 2026 – Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a $100 million state investment in law enforcement technology and equipment. As part of this investment, $75 million is available for police departments and sheriffs’ offices to improve technology and modernize equipment, allowing them to more effectively solve and prevent crime, and improve officer and community safety. Another $25 million will fund a new, statewide records management system, replacing a decades-old platform to improve information sharing and streamline reporting. This new investment in the state’s LETECH Grant Program builds upon $127 million previously awarded through the program to 378 agencies from Western New York to Long Island, and is included in the FY27 Enacted Budget, which sustains record-level funding for public safety initiatives statewide.

“Keeping New Yorkers safe means ensuring the men and women who protect our communities have the tools and technology they need to meet today’s public safety challenges,” Governor Hochul said. “This investment will help agencies modernize equipment, strengthen public safety, and improve information sharing capabilities to enhance the work they do to protect the communities they serve, while continuing our comprehensive approach to reducing crime across the state.”

Administered by the state Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS), the LETECH program will fund a variety of equipment and technology, including but not limited to acoustic gunshot detection systems, drones, counter-drone mitigation systems, 3-D crime scene laser scanners, trauma kits and automated external defibrillators, body-worn cameras and vests, traffic and safety equipment, lighting, specialized records management systems, and patrol vehicle and officer equipment. Agencies also may purchase equipment and technology to support 911 centers, emergency management operations, parking and code enforcement, and communication platforms to engage with the community.

Peru Gazette 2024 File Photo

Championship Bass Fishing and East Coast Watercross Return to the Adirondack Coast

PLATTSBURGH, NY (July 6, 2026) – Get ready for one of the biggest summers on Lake Champlain! From championship bass fishing tournaments to high-flying jet ski racing, the Adirondack Coast is serving up weeks of nonstop action that will draw thousands of competitors and spectators to the region.

Whether you’re watching the country’s best anglers reel in trophy bass at the Dock Street Waterfront or cheering as personal watercraft soar through the waves at Plattsburgh City Beach, there’s no shortage of excitement on—and around—the lake.

More than 2,000 anglers, racers, crews, and fans are expected to visit throughout the season, generating millions in economic impact while filling local hotels, restaurants, shops, and attractions.

“These events showcase everything that makes the Adirondack Coast special,” said Kristy Kennedy, Vice President of Marketing and Tourism for the Adirondack Coast Visitors Bureau. “Lake Champlain is already one of the country’s premier freshwater destinations, and every summer we get to welcome some of the world’s best anglers and racers while introducing thousands of visitors to our communities.”

Reel in the Action

Professional bass fishing returns with an impressive lineup of tournaments featuring many of the sport’s biggest names. Best of all, spectators can watch daily launches and weigh-ins for free.

2026 Tournament Schedule

🎣 July 18 – Reynolds Boats Northern Bass Tournament
🎣 July 24–26 – MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit
🎣 July 31–August 2 – Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Championship
🎣 August 8 – MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League
🎣 August 13–16 – Bassmaster Elite Series
🎣 August 22 – Thayer’s Marine Tournament
🎣 August 27–29 – MLF Toyota Series

Lake Champlain’s reputation for world-class bass fishing continues to attract elite anglers from across North America and internationally, while catch-and-release tournaments help preserve this incredible fishery for future generations. 

Then… Turn Up the Throttle

Just across town, the excitement shifts from fishing rods to horsepower as East Coast Watercross returns to Plattsburgh City Beach, July 31–August 2.

Expect a weekend packed with:

• High-speed personal watercraft racing
• Edge-of-your-seat action on Lake Champlain
• Event merchandise
• Family-friendly fun
• Incredible waterfront views

Event Schedule

Friday, July 31 | Practice | 1:00 PM–5:00 PM
Saturday, August 1 | Racing | 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Sunday, August 2 | Racing | 10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Admission is free, with regular beach parking fees applying.

Whether you’re a die-hard fishing fan, a motorsports enthusiast, or simply looking for an unforgettable summer weekend, the Adirondack Coast is the place to be.

Plan your visit, find lodging specials, and learn more at goadirondack.com/bass and goadirondack.com/watercross.

The Great New York State Fair to Run Wednesday, August 26 Through Labor Day, September 7

Albany, July 6, 2026 – Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that admission and parking passes for The 2026 Great New York State Fair will go on sale Tuesday, July 7, at 9 a.m. Packed with incredible value, a single admission ticket costs $8 and includes access to all grounds entertainment, agricultural exhibits, live demonstrations, and the Chevrolet Music Series. Admission remains free for those aged 65 and older along with children 12 years old and under, continuing to ensure that The Fair is one of the most affordable fairs in the nation, providing an accessible space for the whole family to get offline and get outside. This year’s Fair will include more programming than ever before, with dozens of live performances and demonstrations, returning fan favorites and exciting new competitions, food and beverages from regional producers including a fresh lineup of vendors in the Taste NY marketplace, daily events in the reimagined Empire Room, and much more to discover. 

“The Great New York State Fair is a time-honored tradition, celebrating our agricultural heritage and a cornerstone of our summers here in New York State,” Governor Hochul said. “People shouldn’t have to break the bank to have fun. As of today, tickets for this affordable, family-friendly event that will be packed with old favorites and new attractions are now on sale. New Yorkers – get your tickets today and I’ll see you at The Fair this summer!”

For those fairgoers who have plans to attend The Fair multiple times over the 13-day run, the $25 Frequent Fairgoer option again allows fairgoers to enter The Fair once a day, every day during The Fair. A Frequent Fairgoer ticket is non-transferable and is available exclusively online. Parking for the Fair costs $12. Advance tickets for The Fair’s famous Midway, operated by Wade Shows, will go on sale in the coming weeks. 

There are three ways fairgoers can buy admission tickets and/or parking: online, over the phone, and in-person from August 26 through September 7.

• Online: The link to purchase admission tickets and parking will go live at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 7, at The Great New York State Fair’s website.
• Over the Phone: Starting July 7, tickets and parking may also be purchased over the phone by calling Etix toll-free at 1-800-514-3849 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday.
• At the Gate: Beginning Wednesday, August 26, kiosks positioned at all gates will be available for electronic ticket purchases. To minimize waiting time for the kiosks, large signs featuring QR codes will also be available at all entrances and in parking lots so fairgoers can use their smartphone to purchase tickets. Reverse ATMs are on site to convert cash into a usable card.

Including fees, the total cost for fairgoers will be:

• Admission: $8.32 per ticket ($8 admission, ticket fee of 14 cents, credit card processing fee of 18 cents)
• Frequent Fairgoer: $25.70 ($25 Frequent Fairgoer pass, ticket fee of 14 cents, credit card processing fee of 56 cents; note that the Frequent Fairgoer passes are available exclusively online)
• Parking: $12.41 per vehicle ($12 parking, ticket fee of 14 cents, credit card processing fee of 27 cents)

By John T Ryan 

Peru, NY –  The verbal volley between Theresa Larson and the Peru Town Board continued at the Town Board’s June 22nd Meeting. In June 2024, Lake Champlain Transportation (LCT) purchased six parcels, including the former Snug Harbor/Olde Valcour Marina, the Mariner Restaurant, which Larson co-operated, a dive shop, a campground, and properties directly across Route 9. Larson questions the legality and the precedent of the agreement the town reached with LCT. The agreement suspended the February 27 Cease and Desist Work Order issued by the Peru Code Enforcement Officer for alleged failure to obtain several building permits and a site plan approval. 

The agreement permits LCT to apply for building permits post-construction and to acquire temporary Certificates of Occupancy for work already performed, provided the work is brought into compliance. A June 10 deadline related to work at the dive shop and electrical work at the campsite was part of the agreement.  Larson asked about the June 10 deadline and said she can’t get answers to her questions from either the town’s attorney or the supervisor. Supervisor Craig Randall repeated what he said at previous meetings, “The matter is under consideration by the town counsel.” Larson responded, “We’ve been pretty patient about moving forward with a lawsuit, but at this point our hands are tied. We don’t want to put this burden on the town…” At this point, Councilman Kregg Bruno stated. “You keep threatening; you just come here every month saying the same thing over and over. Why don’t you just go ahead with it?”  After a few more comments, Larson and the person accompanying her exited the meeting. 

Town of Peru – LCT Agreement

Other Issues: 

The board discussed creating a place for young people to ride e-bikes and pedal bikes on the town-owned 100+ acre property north of the walking trail. Town Attorney Matt Favro will review the purchase contract to determine whether the town has the right to use the property for this purpose. If not, would the seller agree to modifying the contract to permit the proposed use? At the Board’s last meeting, Councilor Rick Barber said the town purchased the land utilizing a grant that may restrict the property’s future use. Attorney Favro said someone should also check the impact on the town’s liability insurance cost. 

Highway Superintendent Michael Farrell requested and received permission to use plastic liners to repair two culverts on Lapham Mills Road. Farrell said the work can be done in one day with no traffic stoppage. The Precision Group will inspect, video, pressure-clean, and install the liners for a cost of $52,851.50. 

Councilman Rick Barber reported that the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) approved the town’s erection of an American Flag at the Peru Dock, provided it is illuminated at night. Barber said a solar-powered light is acceptable to DEC. 

The board thanked Rulfs Orchard for donating 18 hanging flower baskets for use at Little Ausable River and Heyworth/Mason Park. It also thanked Kevin Soucy, owner of Signs and More on Mason Street in Morrisonville, for his no-charge replacement of all the exterior town hall lettering. 

Helen Nerska said her office will be selling Peru’s America 250 T-shirts at the June 27 town market at $15 each. Nerska also reported that the June 13 Lapham Mills Road history walk, narrated by Bob McGee, was informative and well received.  

Pam Barber reported that the summer concerts at Heyworth Main Park begin on Sunday, June 28, 6 to 8 p.m. 

The Board Approved: 

A Change Directive with Murnane Building Contractors at the Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade involving chimney and roofing repairs at the existing  materials handling building on a time and materials basis. Murnane will submit tracking documents for board approval. 

A Change Directive with K&L Plumbing at a total cost of $$8,828 involving application of epoxy coating to heaters and ductwork changes.  

A Change Directive with Triangle Electrical Systems providing for equipment and wiring to maintain power to the critical system during the transition to the new utility service.  Time-and-material tracking documents will be submitted for approval. 

A Resolution authorizing the hiring of Brandon Barnaby as a part-time seasonal worker in the water/sewer/parks department at an hourly rate of $18.29 with a June 30 start date. 

Click here to view the Peru Gazette Meeting video 

LAKE PLACID, NY (July 6, 2026) – The 27th Ironman Lake Placid will take place on Sunday, July 19; its course defined along roads throughout Lake Placid, Keene, Jay, Upper Jay, Au Sable Forks and Wilmington. There will be a number of road closures throughout these communities.

The public should expect road closures and associated traffic delays beginning shortly after 5:00 a.m. that day. Traffic pattern changes and delays will impact communities along the bike and run course.

In Lake Placid/North Elba:

• Cummings Rd. will be closed from 4:00 a.m. until midnight.
• Mirror Lake Dr. from Northwood Rd. to Main St. in Lake Placid – closed from 5:00 a.m. until 1:00 a.m on July 20.
• Northwood Rd. from Rt. 86 to Mirror Lake Dr. – closed southbound from 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Parkside Dr. in Lake Placid – closed from Mirror Lake Dr. to Main St. from 5:00 a.m. until 1:00 a.m on July 20.
• Colden Ave. from School St. to Mill Pond Dr. – closed from 6:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
• Main St. from the Post Office to Station St. – closed from 5:00 a.m. until 1:00 a.m on July 20.
• Rt. 73 from Mill Pond Dr. to River Rd. – closed from 5:00 a.m. until 1:00 a.m on July 20.
• River Rd. – closed from 11:00 a.m. until midnight.
• Bobsled Run Ln. – closed in both directions from 7:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.

Parking will not be permitted overnight on Saturday, July 18 on Mirror Lake Dr. in front of the tennis courts, nor on Parkside Dr. from Main St. to Mirror Lake Dr. Parking on Main St. from Parkside Dr. near the post office south is also prohibited overnight on Saturday, July 18.

Outside Lake Placid:

• Rt. 86 southbound to Lake Placid from Wilmington and Jay closed from 7:00 a.m. until 6:30 p.m.
• Rt. 9N closed northbound from Keene to Glen Rd. in Jay from 6:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
• Stickney Bridge Rd. – closed north and east bound from Glen Rd. to Rt. 9 from 7:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m; detour traffic is permitted in the opposite lane to access Jay and Keene.
• Rt. 9N southbound – closed from Stickney Bridge Rd. to the Rt. 86 intersection from 7:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
• Bilhuber Rd. will be closed to traffic from 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.
• Haselton Rd. will remain open from Bilhuber Rd. to the Town of Black Brook; no vehicle travel south of Bilhuber Rd. until 4:00 p.m.
• Rt. 73 south/eastbound from Lake Placid to Keene begins at 6:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

Read more »

Fiscal watchdog says independent oversight is needed to avoid waste and fraud.

Click here for the New York Focus story 

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole 

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!

Fire towers in the Adirondacks offer breathtaking views, but often times can be hard to access, due to their remote locations 

Click here for the Adirondack Almanac story 

When given an excessive amount of plastic trash, what do you do with it? How about…turn it into a bench?

Click here for the Adirondack Almanac story 

A new educational program invites participants to tour Lake Champlain from the water and learn about the area’s environment

Click here for the Adirondack Almanac story 

The hospital said it would expect to save $19 million dollars each year, but staff are skeptical of the long-term costs.

Click here for the vtdigger story 

If Handling Legal Sparkling Devices, Priority Number One is Fire Safety

Albany, July 3, 2026 Governor Kathy Hochul today urged New Yorkers to prioritize safety as they prepare for the July 4th holiday and the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Fireworks pose a significant risk, causing thousands of injuries each year, particularly among young people. These accidents are most common in the weeks surrounding the July 4th holiday.

Common causes of fireworks-related injuries are:

• A firecracker with a fast fuse explodes before it can be thrown.
• A misguided rocket strikes a bystander.
• Someone approaches a firecracker when it has not yet exploded.

In 2024, according to data from the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks started more than 34,000 fires, including 3,246 structure fires, 857 vehicle fires, 29,517 outside fires, and 459 unclassified fires. These fires caused $98 million in direct property damage.

The regular meeting of the Peru Town Board was held on Thursday May 28, 2026 at the

Peru Town Hall. Those present were Mr. Craig Randall, Supervisor; Mr. Richard Barber, Jr.,

Councilman; Mr. Mel Irwin, Councilman; Mr. Kregg Bruno, Councilman and Mrs. Christine

Crawford, Town Clerk. Also present was ; Mr. Courtney Tetrault, Water/Sewer Superintendent.

Mr. Nick Weaver, Councilman; Mr. Matthew Favro, Town Attorney; Mr. Michael Farrell,

Highway Superintendent; Ms. Pamela Barber, Confidential Secretary to the Board and Ms.

Kristen Marino, Recreation Director were excused. Absent were Mr. Tyler Jarvis, Deputy

Highway Superintendent; Ms. Helen Nerska, Historian, Mr. Duane Bibeau, Codes and Zoning

Officer and Mr. T’chaka Sikelianos, Dog Control Officer.

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

A Special meeting of the Peru Town Board was held on Friday, May 22, 2026 at the Peru Town

Hall. Those present were Mr. Craig Randall, Supervisor; Mr. Richard Barber, Councilman; Mr.

Mel Irwin, Councilman; Mr. Nick Weaver, Councilman and Mrs. Christine Crawford, Town

Clerk. Mr. Kregg Bruno, Councilman; was excused.

The meeting was called to order at 9:30 AM by Mr. Randall, with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Motion by Mr. Irwin; seconded by Mr.Weaver to Open the Special Meeting.

Ayes 4, Noes 0

Motion Carried

Motion by Mr. Barber; seconded by Mr. Weaver to Adjourn to Executive Session at 9:33 AM.

Ayes 4, Noes 0

Motion Carried

Motion by Mr. Weaver; seconded by Mr. Barber to Return from Executive Session at 9:48 AM.

Ayes 4, Noes 0

Motion Carried

RESOLUTION NUMBER:26.05-22.01

A RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE THE HIRING OF SPECIAL OUTSIDE COUNSEL OF COSTELLO, COONEY & FEARON, PLLC FOR LAND USE MATTERS AND AUTHORIZES THE SUPERVISOR TO SIGN THE ATTACHED ENGAGEMENT LETTER.

MOTION: Mr. Weaver SECOND: Mr. Barber

WHEREAS the Town Board has found that in the best interests of the Town, we are in need of outside counsel that specializes in land use matters.

WHEREAS, the Board has in front of them, the basic Terms of Representation from Costello, Cooney & Fearon, PLLC.

WHEREAS, according to those terms, the Town of Peru agrees to pay an upfront retainer fee of $2,500.00 to cover initial costs and hourly fees will vary from $225.00 to $425.00 per hour with specific rates reflecting the knowledge, experience and expertise of each individual assigned.

THEREFORE, BE IT

RESOLVED, said proposed authorization is approved and the Supervisor is hereby directed to execute the engagement letter attached.

AND, BE IT

RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall take effect immediately.

Roll Call: NO

Richard Barber x

Mel Irwin x

Nick Weaver x

Kregg Bruno Carried:4 Ayes;0 Noes

YES Excused

Motion by Mr. Irwin; seconded by Mr. Weaver to adjourn the Special meeting at 9:55AM

Ayes 4, Noes 0

Motion Carried

The regular meeting of the Peru Town Board was held on Monday May 11, 2026 at the

Peru Town Hall. Those present were Mr. Craig Randall, Supervisor; Mr. Mel Irwin,

Councilman; Mr. Nick Weaver, Councilman and Mrs. Christine Crawford, Town Clerk. Also

present were Mr. Matthew Favro, Town Attorney; Mr. Courtney Tetrault, Water/Sewer

Superintendent; Mr. Michael Farrell, Highway Superintendent; Ms. Pamela Barber, Confidential

Secretary to the Board; Ms. Helen Nerska, Historian and Mr. T’chaka Sikelianos, Dog Control

Officer. Absent were Mr. Kregg Bruno, Councilman; Mr. Tyler Jarvis, Deputy Highway

Superintendent and Ms. Kristen Marino, Recreation Director.

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

Motion by Mr. Weaver; seconded by Mr. Irwin to approve the minutes from the Regular

Meeting of April 17, 2026.

Ayes 3, Noes 0

Motion Carried

Community Input

Marque Moffit gives the Town an update on Library events. She thanks the Town for allowing them to use the park and for waiving the fee. The Library has 2 fundraisers coming up, the annual Book Sale from June 10-13 and a community wall calendar is in the works which will contain photos of the Town of Peru. The Library is also launching a survey to make sure all needs are met. Mr. Randall shares what a great team the Library has, and the Board thanks Ms. Moffit for the updates.

Teresa Larsen questions the town contract with LCT, but will hold her comments for later.

Corey Trombley is still looking for information on the LCT agreement, and he is advised by Mr.

Randall to have his attorney contact the Town’s Attorney for this project.

Motion by Mr. Weaver; seconded by Mr. Irwin to table accepting reports from all Departments. Read more »

Click here to view the Induction Program.  Chris Mazzella’s remarks begin at the 10 minute 45 second mark. 

Click here for the NCPR story 

Peru Gazette 2024 File Photo

Lake Ranked No. 5 in Bassmaster’s 2026 Best Bass Lakes – Northeastern Division

PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. (July 2, 2026) – The Adirondack Coast Visitors Bureau is proud to announce that Lake Champlain has once again been recognized as one of the premier bass fishing destinations in the country, earning the No. 5 spot in the Northeastern Division of Bassmaster magazine’s 2026 Best Bass Lakes rankings. The annual list recognizes the nation’s top fisheries based on tournament results, fisheries data, angler feedback, and overall fishing quality.

Stretching between New York and Vermont, Lake Champlain has long been regarded as one of North America’s most diverse and productive bass fisheries, offering exceptional opportunities for both largemouth and smallmouth bass. Its combination of expansive grass flats, rocky shoals, offshore structure, and stunning Adirondack scenery continues to make it a favorite among recreational anglers and professional competitors alike.

“Being recognized by Bassmaster once again reinforces what anglers have known for years—Lake Champlain is truly a world-class fishery,” said Kristy Kennedy, Vice President of Marketing and Tourism for the Adirondack Coast Visitors Bureau. “From first-time visitors to seasoned tournament pros, anglers come here for the incredible fishing, breathtaking scenery, and welcoming communities that make every trip memorable.”

In its 2026 rankings, Bassmaster highlighted Lake Champlain’s ability to consistently produce outstanding tournament weights while offering anglers the opportunity to target both trophy largemouth and hard-fighting smallmouth bass. The lake’s impressive performance during recent Bassmaster Elite Series competition further demonstrated why it remains among the nation’s elite fisheries.

The recognition comes as the Adirondack Coast continues to welcome some of the sport’s biggest events. Throughout 2026, Lake Champlain will host multiple nationally recognized bass tournaments, bringing thousands of anglers, families, and spectators to the region while generating significant economic impact for local businesses.

Beyond tournament competition, Lake Champlain offers exceptional public boat launches, marinas, lodging, restaurants, tackle shops, and outdoor recreation, making it an ideal destination for anglers planning everything from weekend getaways to bucket-list fishing adventures.

Whether chasing trophy bass, enjoying a family fishing vacation, or competing on the national stage, Lake Champlain continues to prove why it is one of the Northeast’s premier freshwater fishing destinations.

To learn more about fishing on Lake Champlain, upcoming tournaments, lodging, and trip planning resources, visit goadirondack.com/bass.