Clinton Community College ranked for online programs
Posted: April 22nd, 2019 under Education News, Northern NY News.
Comments: none
Ausable River from Au Sable Forks to Lake Champlain – April 20, 2019
Posted: April 20th, 2019 under Adirondack Region News, Environmental News, General News, Northern NY News.
Comments: none
A Raging Ausable River
Posted: April 20th, 2019 under Environmental News, Northern NY News.
Comments: none
Imagine No Daily Newspaper
Press Republican Editorial of April 20, 2019
VIEWPOINT
Imagine no daily newspaper
With great dismay we got the news — Northern New York Newspaper Corp. and its Watertown Daily Times couldn’t make payroll.
It was the first time ever and it was a matter of timing, Watertown Times Managing Editor Alec Johnson told us. Not enough revenue from advertising and subscribers had come in soon enough, so paychecks had to be delayed.
Just one day, he said.
But revenues, from subscriptions and advertising, declined dramatically the first quarter of the year, CEO and Co-Publisher John B. Johnson said.
But such an eventuality is one many, many newspapers have come to face in recent years.
In part, a decline in print advertising is not quickly enough being offset by revenues from digital advertising.
As well, Alec wrote in an eloquent editorial about the shortfall and its larger implications in the world of journalism, there’s a perception by the public that newspapers are hale and hearty.
A recent Pew Research Center study, he wrote, “found a startling number of Americans believe local newspapers are in good financial shape.”
Yet, he said, “the past decade has been the worst on record for newspapers covering communities throughout the country, including here in northern New York.”
That study says 71 percent of respondents had that glowing perception of newspapers’ financial health, while just 14 percent had directly paid for a local news service.
There’s a true disconnect there.
And Pew Executive Director Amy Mitchell said, as she shared the survey results, attempts by the industry to educate consumers have been largely unsuccessful.
“We as an industry are largely to blame for that misperception,” Alec wrote, “because we follow our mission to inform our readers seriously, without complains about meager wages along the line, from reporting, to printing, publishing and distributing the news, and in the face of financial adversity.”
We digested Alec’s words, nodding our heads in agreement. And we wondered how people would feel if their daily paper went away.
We know the Watertown Daily Times well; in fact, for a few years now, our paper and theirs has been part of a coalition sharing coverage of the very large 21st Congressional District.
Our North Country papers share other news and sports stories, too. In the interest of giving all of our readers the best possible coverage, we set aside the traditional competitiveness one newspaper has for another and have worked collaboratively.
It’s been a terrific experience; our reporters and theirs, our editors and theirs, share a true comradeship in our pursuit of a common goal.
To cover the news.
The Watertown Times does what we do: report breaking news, including fires and crime; follow unfolding stories; write features that capture North Country life at its finest, arts, health, faith and more; cover business, politics and any other news of importance to the region. And local sports!
Then there are events calendars, birth announcements, honor rolls, police reports. Photos of the senior play, your grandson’s kindergarten graduation, the play at home that sees the underdog win the game.
It would all be gone.
In Watertown, Alec said, they are working to redefine the business of journalism.
They must, he said, “re-evaluate all we do and focus on areas that are self-sustaining.”
They shouldn’t have to go it alone.
When an advertiser buys space in a newspaper, the benefit is two-fold. Yes, it promotes whatever information the buyer wants to get out there.
But it also helps assure that the paper will be there to be a vehicle for that ad.
As Northern New York Newspapers work to right the ship, the big beneficiaries of a lot of past news coverage could lend a hand.
Hospitals, colleges, major industries, nursing homes …
Buy some ad space.
Think of how businesses and organizations support public television and radio. They buy ad space.
Locals, buy subscriptions. Support your paper’s survival.
“The time is now,” Alec told us. “They can’t be putting it off.
“Papers all across the country are fading away.”
Posted: April 20th, 2019 under Business News, General News, Northern NY News, Peru/Regional History.
Comments: none
Enjoy the Kitchen Band
The R.S.V.P. Kitchen Band performs bi-monthly at the noontime nutrition program at St. Augustine’s Parish Center. They were in Peru this past Wednesday. Retired Peru Central custodian Earl Southmayd was the lead singer on this song. They’re a great, fun group.
Posted: April 19th, 2019 under Arts and Entertainment, Community Events, Peru News.
Comments: none
Fresh census data documents upstate population shrinkage
Posted: April 19th, 2019 under Adirondack Region News, Northern NY News, Peru/Regional History.
Comments: none
Can the Adirondack Park be a welcoming place to all visitors? | NCPR News
Posted: April 18th, 2019 under Adirondack Region News, State Government News.
Comments: none
Bears on the Jabez Allen Rd.
John Hart Photo
By John HartMamma Black Bear and what appears to be a yearling cub just prowling their way up the hedgerow near the house Wednesday, April 10th @ 11:45PM! The only other time I’ve seen a bear hereabouts was way back in the Fall of ’85, so this was an occasion worth sharing, for sure!
Posted: April 18th, 2019 under Environmental News, General News, Peru News.
Comments: none
Dannemora buildings to be razed at last
Posted: April 18th, 2019 under Law Enforcement News, Northern NY News, Peru/Regional History.
Comments: none
Flood warning in place along lake shore
Posted: April 18th, 2019 under Northern NY News, Weather News/History.
Comments: none
Cuomo Changes Veterans’ Education Benefits Policy
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today directed the Higher Education Services Corporation to broaden the interpretation of eligibility for New York’s Military Enhanced Recognition Incentive and Tribute (MERIT) Scholarship. Under the new interpretation, college tuition and related costs will be covered for all children, spouses, and financial dependents of members of the United States Armed Forces who die or become severely and permanently disabled, or missing in action while performing their military duties. Click here for more information.
Posted: April 18th, 2019 under Peru/Regional History, State Government News.
Comments: none
Stefanik Statement on the Release of Redacted Mueller Report
Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Elise Stefanik released the below statement following the release of the redacted Mueller Report:
“I have consistently supported the Mueller investigation and was one of the first Members to call for transparency of the Mueller Report to the American people. I will be reading the Mueller Report as it is made available to Members of Congress,” said Congresswoman Stefanik. “AG Barr was clear that the process was completed with a high degree of transparency, no executive privilege, limited redactions, and resulted in a report of no collusion between Russia and the Trump campaign. I am proud of my record of calling for full transparency, and will continue to focus on what matters: interference in our elections by Russia and other foreign adversaries.”
Posted: April 18th, 2019 under Congressional News, Peru/Regional History.
Comments: none
Zoning Board Approves Stewart’s Variance Request
Site Drawing
Stewart’s Representaive Chuck Marshall
Zoning Board of Appeals
April 18, 2019 Peru – Last night the Peru Zoning Board of Appeals approved Stewart’s Shops request for a variance to construct a new 3,856 square ft. convenience store. Peru’s Zoning law restricts convenience stores in the hamlet to 2,500 sq. ft.; however, a variance can be granted if the benefit to the community prevails over adverse impacts. Board members James Falvo, James Bosley, Tom Fusco and Sean Lukas voted yes. Steve LaBounty voted no saying the building was too large. Stewart’s still has to present its plans to the Planning Board which will consider such matters as fencing, greenery, lighting and noise mitigation.
Several residents attended last night’s meeting. Michael Blaine said, “I think it’s a fantastic project. We know who Stewart’s is. There are no surprises here. It will be a more safe intersection. It’s a win, win for the area.”
Several issues that will undoubtedly come before the Planning Board were discussed. If Stewart’s acquires the property to the north where a few mobile homes are currently located, John and Jean Manusco said their home will be only 50 inches from Stewart’s property line. They are concerned about privacy and noise. Stewart’s representative Chuck Marshall tried to allay their fears saying, “We’re a big company, but we try to make accommodations.” Marshall said constructing a 4- foot fence between the shop and their property would not be a problem. He will also consider additional greenery. He gave his phone number to the Manuscos so that they could call him to discuss their concerns.
Denise Laduke, who lives directly behind Stewart’s, is concerned about noise during the early morning hours, especially since the new store would be closer to her property. She said, “In the summer when your windows are open you can hear the loud clanging from garbage trucks at 4 or 5 a.m.” Marshall said constructing a 6-foot high fence to mitigate noise would not be a problem.
Posted: April 18th, 2019 under Business News, Peru News, Zoning Board News.
Comments: none
Peru home badly damaged by fire
Posted: April 18th, 2019 under Peru News.
Comments: none
Man arrested after carrying gasoline cans into St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Source: Man arrested after carrying gasoline cans into St. Patrick’s Cathedral – New York Daily News
Posted: April 18th, 2019 under Law Enforcement News.
Comments: none
Approved Minutes of the Peru Town Board’s March 25, 2018 Meeting
The regular meeting of the Peru Town Board was held on Monday, March 25, 2019 at the Peru Town Hall. Those present were Mr. Brandy McDonald Supervisor-Excused; Mr. James Douglass, Councilman; Mr. James Langley, Councilman; Mr. Melvin Irwin, Councilman-Excused; Mr. Richard Barber, Councilman; Mr. Matthew Favro, Town Attorney; Mrs. Dianne Miller, Town Clerk. Also present Mr. Courtney Tetrault, Water/Sewer Superintendent; Mr. Michael Farrell, Highway Superintendent; Ms. Pamela Barber, Secretary to the Board :and Mr. Dave Drollette, Dog Control Officer.
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Mr. Douglass, Deputy Supervisor with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Motion by Mr.Langley, seconded by Mr.Barber to approve the minutes from the March 11, 2019 meeting.
Ayes 3 Nays 0 Motion Carried
Community Input and Questions
None
RESOLUTION NUMBER: 19.03.25.01
A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE SALE OF THE TOWN WATER DEPARTMENT’S 2008 FORD F250 PICKUP TRUCK IN “AS IS” CONDITION
MOTION Mr. Langley SECOND: Mr. Douglass
WHEREAS, Douglas Rushford has offered to buy the Town Water Department’s Ford F250 Pickup truck on March 25, 2019 in “As Is” Condition for the Price of Six Thousand Two Hundred Fifty Dollars and no cents ($6,250.00); and
WHEREAS the Town Board finds that this offer is reasonable and proper,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the proposed sale of the Town Water Department’s Ford F250 Pickup truck , In “As Is” Condition, to Douglass Rushford is hereby approved for the amount of Six Thousand Two Hundred Fifty Dollars and no cents ($6,250.00); and
| Roll Call: | YES | NO | |
| Richard Barber, Jr. | x | ||
| James Douglass | x | ||
| Mel Irwin | Excused | ||
| Jim Langley | x | ||
| Brandy McDonald | Excused |
Carried: 3 Ayes 0 Nays Motion Carried
RESOLUTION NUMBER: 18.09.24.02
A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF MARK LUKENS TO THE TOWN OF PERU PLANNING BOARD.
MOTION: Mr. Barber SECOND: Mr. Langley
WHEREAS, The Peru Town Planning Board has recommended that Mark Lukens be appointed to fill the Town Planning Board seat vacated by Benjamin Wright through December 31, 2021.
THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, the Peru Town Board agrees with the recommendation of the Planning Board and appoints Mark Lukens to complete the term of the seat vacated by Benjamin Wright through December 31, 2021.
AND, BE IT
RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall take effect immediately.
| Roll Call: | YES | NO | |
| Richard Barber, Jr. | x | ||
| James Douglass | x | ||
| Mel Irwin | Excused | ||
| Jim Langley | x | ||
| Brandy McDonald | Excused |
Carried: 3 Ayes 0 Nays Motion Carried
Acceptance of Michael Hanlon’s Resignation Letter
Motion by Mr. Langley, seconded by Mr. Barber to accept Michael Hanlon’s letter of resignation effective March 29, 2019.
Electronic Death Certificate Registry
Mrs. Miller stated starting April 18, 2019 all death certificates will be filed electronically with the N.Y.S. Department of Health.
Sewer Collection Project Update
Mr. Tetrault stated AES is looking at the Stewart plans to possible incorporate new lines at the same time the town would be installing.
Ms. Barber stated the closing will be April 4, 2019 for the Sewer Upgrade Project financing with $3,611,397 Short-term financing (BAN) through NYS Clean Water State Revolving Fund until the US Rural Development monies come in and $1,1006,481 from the WIIA Grant.
Dangerous Dog Boarding Update
After much research Ms. Barber stated two options for dangerous dog boarding. Malone- SPCA has a yearly contract flat fee of $ 1050.00 and Adirondack Vet Hospital located in Westport has no upfront fees but daily fees which could accumulate quickly as it can be a very long drawn out process to deem a dog dangerous. After discussion of options, Mr. Favro is going to review Malone-SPCA contract. Mr. Langley thanked Ms. Barber for all the time spent inquiring all possible options.
Other Business
Mr. Barber stated the Peru Library has new air conditioner installed water in basement from pond in back of building, water in alcove and furnace issues caused by water. J Hogan refrigeration was able to remedy all issues.
Mr. Tetrault stated all billing for water/sewer is done and bank card acceptance is online. New DEC representative will be meeting Mr. Tetrault March 26, 2019 for a meet and greet.
Mr. Farrell stated there are 150 million dollars in CHIPS monies. The Telegraph Street bridge study will cost approximately $ 100,000. Karl Weiss will be assisting in writing the 80/20 grant.
A $50,000 grant will be used for Reservoir Road repair. Mr. Farrell stated top priority for road repair will be Howard Drive and Haynes Drive.
Mr. Douglass stated he spoke with Sally Soucia from JCEO and she has three possible candidates for the JCEO position and will be conducting interviews on Wednesday.
Mr. Douglass attended the Main Street project meeting March 19, 2019. Adele Douglas stated the possibility of the grant money may be used for blacktop for Heyworth Mason Village area.
Public Comments on Agenda Items Only
RESOLUTION NUMBER: 18.09.24.03
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE POST-AUDIT PAYMENT OF CERTAIN CLAIMS, BILLS AND INVOICES OF THE TOWN
MOTION: Mr. Langley SECOND: Mr. Barber
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 2019:
From Town Of Peru Vouchers in March 2019: #201900215 through and including #201900383
Abstract dated 3/25/2019
For the dollar amount totaling: $200,308.26; of that, $43,031.90 was wired, credit cards and prepaid; and $157,276.36 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 | ||
| James Douglass | x | ||
| Mel Irwin | Excused | ||
| Jim Langley | x | ||
| Brandy McDonald | Excused |
Carried: 3 Ayes 0 Nays
Motion by Mr. Langley, seconded by Mr. Barber to adjourn the regular meeting at 7:57 PM.
Ayes 3 Nays 0 Motion Carried
_________________________Supervisor _________________________Councilman
_________________________Councilman _________________________Councilman
_________________________Councilman
Posted: April 17th, 2019 under Town Board News.
Comments: none
Firefighters battle flames in Peru
Posted: April 17th, 2019 under Peru News.
Comments: none
New Employee Hire Approved & More
By John T. Ryan
Peru – Town Supervisor Brandy McDonald is still recovering from shoulder surgery but he was able to chair the Monday, April 8, 2019 Town Board meeting.
Here is a summary of the meeting highlights:
The next Town Board meeting was rescheduled to Thursday, April 25th at 7 p.m. Supervisor Brandy McDonald has scheduled medical treatment and Deputy Supervisor Jim Douglass will be out of town on April 22.
Christopher Malin was hired as a Water-Sewer Maintenance Worker 1 at a pay rate of $17.05 per hour. Malin has a degree from Paul Smith’s College and two years water-sewer work experience in Washington County. That experience will enable him to take the NYS Water Plant Operator Licensing Examination as soon as possible.
Clinton County will begin replacing the Davern Road bridge in July.
Liability insurance coverage for Youth Commission volunteers was discussed. Some questions remain unanswered and the matter is being researched. Most claims should be covered under the Town’s general liability policy.
The Board discussed adopting a local law that would clarify the party that would incur any professional fees related to Zoning Board and Planning Board applications and permits. Engineering fees would be the most common fees. Town Attorney Matt Favro will present a law for consideration at the Board’s next meeting. Code Enforcement Officer Bob Guynup said most towns have such a law.
A two-year CPA Contract with the accounting firm Boulrice and Woods was approved.
The Board approved a two-year shared services agreement with the New York State Department of Transportation (DOT).
A Board Workshop was scheduled for May 7th at 5:30 p.m. with AES Engineering to make recommendations regarding the planned sewer system upgrade.
Water-Sewer Superintendent Courtney Tetrault is coordinating Main Street sewer upgrade construction with any sidewalk upgrades that might be undertaken with Stewart’s construction and Main Street improvement grant monies. He does not want to have to tear up a new sidewalk.
Posted: April 17th, 2019 under Town Board News, Water & Sewer Dept. News.
Comments: none
DEC Statewide Forest Ranger Highlights for 4/8 – 4/14/19
Town of Peru
Clinton County
Training: On April 12, DEC Forest Rangers participated in an active shooter drill led by the New York State Police at the Peru Central School. Throughout the drill, teachers and school employees acted as students and practiced standard operating procedures for response to an active shooter incident. The day-long training was supported by Clinton County Emergency Services, including local fire and EMS providers, and the participation of DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers (ECOs) and local, county, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.
Village of Lake Placid
Essex County
Award Reception: DEC Forest Rangers were recently recognized for their dedication and professionalism during the annual Adirondack Park Local Government Day in Lake Placid. During the ceremony, town of Horicon Supervisor Matt Sampson presented the Division of Forest Protection with a certificate on behalf of the Adirondack Association of Towns and Villages, Adirondack Local Government Review Board, and the Adirondack Park Agency. “These brave men and women safeguard the state’s wildlands and waters, as well as the millions of people who use them annually,” the certificate read. “Since the establishment of the Forest Preserve in 1885, Forest Rangers have served as wildland firefighters, wilderness first responders, and protectors of state lands. On a local level, Forest Rangers are an integral component of emergency services and public outreach. They provide invaluable training to local volunteers for wilderness first aid, search and rescue, and wildland fire management. Our Forest Rangers are highly respected community members who teach citizens to avoid life-threatening situations, while promoting natural resource protection.”
Posted: April 17th, 2019 under Adirondack Region News, Environmental News, Law Enforcement News, State Government News.
Comments: none
Census shows fewer family farms in New York state – newyorkupstate.com
Posted: April 17th, 2019 under Agricultural News, Peru/Regional History.
Comments: none
Upcoming Meetings of the Peru CSD Board
Peru Central’s Board of Education will meet for Budget Workshop #7 on Tuesday, April 23rd at 6:00 PM. The Board will also gather for a Special Meeting on Thursday, April 25th at 7:15 AM. Both meetings will be held in the Jr/Sr High School Community Room. Anticipated topics include:
- Establishing a 19-20 Budget
- Vote on BOCES Budget and Board Candidates
The full agendas are available on the District’s website (perucsd.org)
All are welcome.
Posted: April 17th, 2019 under Peru School News.
Comments: none
Wednesday Soup Kitchen Menu
Soup Kitchen at St. Augustine’s Parish Center April 17th Menu
Served 4:30 to 5:45 p.m. All are welcome!
Coleslaw
BBQ Chicken
Rice…See More
Posted: April 16th, 2019 under Community Events.
Comments: none
St. Augustine’s Holy Week Schedule
Posted: April 16th, 2019 under Religious News.
Comments: none
Cobb formally announces bid to unseat Stefanik
Posted: April 16th, 2019 under Congressional News.
Comments: none
Hussains: Living well — until Schoharie limo crash – Times Union
Posted: April 15th, 2019 under Law Enforcement News.
Comments: none