The Peru Gazette

September 24, 2017 Letter to Editor

Dear Editor:

Many sponsors and area businesses, organizations and friends of Scott supported the inaugural Coach Scott Woodward Memorial Duathlon on September 23^rd in the Town of Peru. More than $3,000 was raised for Scott’s memorial scholarship at Peru Central School where annually three seniors who participate in track, cross-country and football are each awarded a $1,000 scholarship to help defray college expenses.

Recognition and thanks to sponsors William Ashley, Jennifer Gaetjens Brandenstein, Aaron LeClaire, Casella Waste, Mark & Tanya Dunham, Forrence Orchards, Kinetic Running, Sen. Elizabeth Little, Peru Federal Credit Union, Peru Health Mart, Cathy Phillips, Marty Shea, Robert Stern, TD Bank, Donna Uliva, Kris Wheeler & Roby Politi, Sally Woodward, Carl “Mike” Zerrahn, and John Zerrahn.

Thanks also to the following businesses and individuals who donated raffle prizes, food and beverages: Adirondack Health, Dunkin Donuts, Hannafords, Kinetic Running, Lisa G’s, Maui North, Mirror Lake Inn, Northern Orchards Inc., ORDA, PepsiCo, Placid Planet, Price Chopper, Rulfs Orchards, Stewart’s Shops and Terry Robards Wine & Spirits.

Special thanks to the NYS Police and Peru Fire Department who provided traffic control and kept the participants safe, John Flynn and the Town of Peru who provided use of the Lapham Mills Recreation Park to stage the event, and Mike Francia and the Peru Cross Country Team and Chazy Varsity Soccer Team who assisted in setting up, directional signage, and cheering on racers. Thank you also to Carole Richards Millea and Cindy Shinault who oversaw the raffles, Mark Morrow who swept the course, Sara Facteau Dunham, Travis Dunham and Sally Woodward for their assistance in planning this event and the 52 participants who competed in the duathlon.

The duathlon’s success is directly linked to these businesses and individuals, and their support ensures that Coach Woodward’s legacy will continue at Peru Central School for years to come.

Sincerely,

Cheryl Breen Randall

Cheryl (Woodward) Breen-Randall

Duathlon Coordinator

By John T. Ryan

Peru – Lifelong Peru resident Loretta Timmons (80) is a patient at UVM Medical Center in Burlington. She is a victim of a horrific dog-biting incident at 3:45 Friday afternoon outside her 778 Union Road home. Mrs. Timmons was attacked as she checked her mail. Three dogs owned by Michael James of 781 Union Road were involved in the incident. One of the dogs, an American Bulldog, has a biting history. That dog was euthanized this afternoon.

The NYS Police have an open case on the incident. Peru Town Control Officer David Drollette said he is issuing nine tickets: Three for having dogs running at large, three for having dogs not licensed in the Town of Peru and three for the actual attack.

Mrs. Timmons’ daughter-in-law, Michelle Duprey Timmons, just posted this hopeful Facebook message.

“I have been conflicted about posting about this because my mother in law is an incredibly private person but due to the outpouring of support we wanted to publicly thank everyone and update. My mother in law was mauled by three dog. We are unsure how many bit her but it caused significant facial injuries. They life flighted her to VT immediately. After a 5+ hour surgery that went better than expected she is making great progress. She is awake and alert and beginning to communicate with us. She is improving nicely. We again thank you for the unbelievable support and will keep everyone updated. This has been an incredibly trying 24 hours for our family and please keep the positive vibes and prayers coming. She will need them as we move into a long recovery.”

10/20/17 Correction made to the number of tickets issued. David Drollette issued nine tickets, not seven as originally stated. 

Thanks to Joanne Kennedy the Peru Gazette has a few photos of this morning’s Scott Woodward Duathlon. Over 50 people competed in the ‘Coach’s Just Du It!” duathlon created by family and friends of Scott. The run/bike race started and finished at Lamham Mills Recreation Park in Peru. All proceeds support a memorial scholarship fund at Peru Central School established in his name.

A message from John Stafford, a member of the Keeseville-Peru Ecumenical Choir. Yes, it is almost that time of year.

Anyone thinking about joining the Peru / Keeseville Ecumenical Choir, the first rehearsal starts tomorrow Sunday Sept 24th 6:30pm at the United Methodist Church on Front St in Keeseville. It’d be great to have some new folks join us!

L-R Back Row – Counselors James Langley, Brandy McDonald, James Douglass, Town Clerk/Tax Collector Kathy Flynn. L-R Front Row – Town Atty. Matt Favro, Supervisor Peter Glushko, Counselor/Deputy Supervisor Donald McBrayer

Editor’s Correction: The gentleman speaking about the Jenkins Street drainage issue who was initially identified as Adam Sullivan was not Adam Sullivan. I am trying to identify that individual.

By John T. Ryan

• North Bend and Jenkins Street Parking Ban
• Storm Sewer Drainage Issues on Jenkins Street 
• Vandalism at Laphams Mills Park 
• Metal Roof Installed at Lyon Road School House 

It appears that on-street parking may no longer be permitted on either Jenkins Street or North Bend Street if some members of the Peru Town Board have their way. Enforcement of a parking ban is holding up board action. Town Attorney Matt Favro expressed his opinion stating, “It’s a waste of time to put signs up if you can’t enforce it.” Highway Superintendent Michael Farrell requested the ban on the narrow streets citing snow plowing problems during the winter months. Attorney Favro said he would confer with the NYS Police and the Clinton County Sheriff’s Department to determine if they have the time and resources to enforce any parking ban. Restricting on-street parking during the winter months was also discussed.

Jenkins Street has another issue: storm drainage. A street resident said the town’s storm drains have not been handling water runoff. He presented photos to amplify his complaint. He said, “I spend hundreds of dollars a year running my sump pump. This has been happening for the 14 years I’ve been there. I have sink holes, garbage and even seagulls and so do my neighbors. Action has to be taken quickly.”  He mentioned runoff from the Peru Central School parking lot as one of the possible causes. Town officials have discussed the problem during several meetings, but they have been unable to locate storm sewer easements giving the town access to private property. Councilor James Langley recommended that the town use its high tech instruments to locate the storm lines and that residents be asked to grant easements.

Lyon Rd. School

Vandals broke a window in a Laphams Mills Park storage building. They also stole keys and may have taken the golf cart on a joy ride. The board discussed installing wire mesh over the building’s five windows. Attorney Favro stated that the NYS Police need to have a more visible presence in the community. The board decided to install three additional exterior lights. The replacement window will cost $170.

Historian Ron Allen reported that a metal roof and sheathing was being installed on the historic Lyon Road Schoolhouse at a labor cost of $2,100. Blair Brothers of Dannemora performed the work. Allen said the roof’s substructure is in good shape.

The board approved a resolution opposing a Saranac Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) proposal to relocate a monument commemorating the Battle of Valcour to Clinton Community College. The monument is located in the Town of Peru on the east side of Route 9, a few hundred yards south of the Valcour Conference Center. The Battle of Valcour took place in the Town of Peru and the monument overlooks the scene of the battle.

The board accepted Councilman Donald McBrayer’s internal audit of town fiscal officer Peter Glushko. All was in order. McBrayer complimented Pam Barber and Judy Akey for their competent work.

Believing that it is time to change computer software vendors, the board scheduled a workshop for Monday September 25th at 6 p.m. Town personnel have not been satisfied with the support being given by its current provider KVS. Software provider Logics LLC will describe the advantages of its software.

James Falvo was reappointed to a five-year term on the board of assessment review.

Highway Superintendent Michael Farrell reported that Parsons Road culvert repairs are almost complete.

The town is receiving a $41,000 FEMA grant to help cover the cost of snow removal during last winter’s blizzard.

Department heads are working on their FY 2018 budgets. Supervisor Glushko asked that the budget proposals be completed by September 20th.

Source: Plattsburgh International Airport Secures  $900K in grant funds – Sun Community News & Printing

AGENDA – TOWN BOARD REGULAR MEETING, September 25 @ 7:00 PM

Call Meeting To Order

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll Call

MOTION: Approval of Minutes for the September 11, 2017 Regular Board Meeting.

Community Input

DISCUSSION: Tobacco Free Facilities.

DISCUSSION/RESOLUTION: Clinton County Assessment Services Contract.

DISCUSSION/MOTION: Adjourn to Executive Session.

DISCUSSION/MOTION: Return to Regular Session.

DISCUSSION: Reducing ZBA Make Up.

DISCUSSION/MOTION: Water/Wastewater Grant Application Approval.

DISCUSSION: Town Water/Wastewater Projects.

DISCUSSION: Town IT Update.

DISCUSSION: Workers Comp.

DISCUSSION: Battle of Valcour Monument Update.

DISCUSSION/RESOLUTION: Logics Software Update.

DISCUSSION: Other Business.

DISCUSSION: Public Comments on Agenda Items Only.

DISCUSSION/RESOLUTION: Approve/Pay Bills.
MOTION: Adjourn

The Town of Peru, will be holding a workshop on Monday, September 25, 2017 at 6:00 PM.  The purpose of the workshop will be to view a new software system from Logics, LLC.  The workshop will take place at the Town Hall, with the regular meeting to follow.

Kathleen Flynn

Town of Peru

Town Clerk

If you need additional information please call me at 643-2745 #2.

Harry Duprey

Mike Ortell

Mike Rock

Alison Spear

Lynn “Ezero” Dwinell

The Peru Athletic Hall of Fame newest members are: Mike Rock Class of 67, Harry Duprey 71, Alison Spear 83, Lynn “Ezero” Dwinell 86 and Mike Oertel 2003.

The 2017 Hall of Fame banquet will be held on Saturday, October 7th at the Plattsburgh Moose Lodge, 90 Sharron Avenue. 6:00 social, and 7:00 dinner @ $30.00 per person.

Please get your reservations into Cathy Phillips ASAP. Checks can be sent with the names listed to Cathy Phillips, 4 Vista Drive, Willsboro, NY 12996 Home phone 518-963-7963 Cell 518-572-1235. Make checks payable to: Peru Athletic Hall of Fame.

Mike Rock graduated from Peru Central School in 1967. During his high school years Read more »

Celebrating the 109th dinner last year

The dinner this year will be presented at the Harkness Church Hall (776 Hallock Hill Road, Peru) on Sunday October 15th from 4 until 6:30pm. Bring your family and meet your friends at one of the North Country’s best church suppers; the meal includes chicken and biscuit, gravy, mashed potatoes, squash, peas, coleslaw, dessert and a beverage. That’s one delicious dinner, still a great bargain at $9.00 for Adults, $8.00 for Seniors, Children of ages 5-12 eat for $5.00, and meals for Pre-schoolers are Free.

Source: New Jersey man found dead near Wallface Mountain | Local News | pressrepublican.com

Parade Grand Marshals Norman and Ann Torrance

Peru High School Band

Thanks to the participation of local schools, institutions, groups and many individuals the 2017 Applefest Parade was a great success.

Click here to view more Peru Gazette parade photos.

L-R Jenna LaFountain, Michael Abair, Tim Sengenberger, Jonathon Kraus, Zachary Fleury, Kevin Compeau, Mike Contessa, Shawn Wallace, Eric Bever

By John T. Ryan

The staff at Champlain Valley Agronomics (CVA) is #16 in our Peru Gazette series featuring people who make Peru a wonderful place to live. They differ from almost all the other people we’ve featured because if you’re not in the business of agriculture you may not know about their presence in our community. For this reason, this is a more in-depth story than usual.

Former Agway employees Eric Bever and Mike Contessa co-own Champlain Valley Agronomics. When they left Agway in 1999 to form an agricultural consulting firm, it’s doubtful that they ever imagined returning to a building at 10 Train Road that once housed the Peru GLF/Agway. A building that once was filled with feed bags and later refrigeration equipment now houses offices, computers and high-tech machines.

From 1999 to 2008 they worked out of Eric Bever’s Peru home. In 2008, after having hired two employees, they rented their current building from J. Hogan Refrigeration and purchased it in 2009. Today Bever and Contessa have seven employees and are about to add three more. CVA’s service area includes Albany County north to Clinton County and west to include St. Lawrence County.

At a point in history when farmers profits are being squeezed by low milk prices and environmental regulations are increasing, Champlain Valley Agronomics’ services are in high demand. Eric Bever explained, “We’re a two-fold service provider. We have a crop production side and an environmental side. Right now we are helping farmers decide when to chop corn. During the growing season we look for bugs and insects and manage how farmers combat them. We also provide farmers with nutrient management systems. We determine a crop’s nutrient requirements and determine the amount of manure and commercial fertilizer to be applied. We work to mitigate risk and we’re constantly making modifications.”

CVA technicians transport four-wheelers to farms where they transit fields to take crop, soil and manure samples or examine field grades to determine nutrient runoff potential. They also use GPS equipped drones to locate the precise location of wet areas, potential drainage issues and crop productivity.

L-R Eric Bever and Mike Contessa and a Precision Planting machine

At the Peru headquarters technicians use the field data to determine the type and amount of fertilizer or insecticides that should be applied. If their analysis detects poor productivity of a given crop over an extended period of time, the farmer might be advised to improve drainage or to switch to another crop. The goal is to achieve maximum crop production with minimum inputs.

CVA also sells equipment dedicated to precision seed planting and seed control. When integrated with CVA’s aerial mapping and soil analysis, the equipment ensures that planters properly spaces seeds and plant at the proper depth. Mike Contessa said, “I’m on high alert during planting season. I can look at my iPad and see how the seed is being planted on every field, the furrow depth and how many gallons of fertilizer are being applied. If it’s not being done correctly, I immediately communicate with the planter operator.”

Farms with 200 head or more of cattle must comply with a wide range of environmental regulations. Mike Contessa explained, “We work with all the state regulatory agencies to ensure that farms stay in compliance or to get into compliance. Farms must have certain permits. We take care of their permit filing and documentation. USDA also provides grants to help farmers comply with these regulations. The grants are competitive, so we work with farmers to get them ranked as high as possible. Our goal is to have no pollution happening on a dairy farm and to utilize all the manure nutrients for crop production.”

New Rides and Foods

Parade Grand Marshals Norm & Ann Torrance. They have probably worked at every Applefest

Father Shnob worked on apple pies all day.

John Guynup has the booths looking just like new

Applefest preparations are underway at St. Augustine’s. Given the beautiful weather forecast, it should be a great Applefest.

On Saturday, September 16th and Sunday, September 17th St. Augustine’s Parish will host the 40th Annual Applefest at the parish grounds, 3030 Main St. in Peru. Saturday’s parade begins at 11 a.m. at the Peru Elementary School and proceeds down Pleasant and Main Streets to the parish grounds.

Following the parade there will be live music, a giant craft fair, apple fritters, fried dough, other great foods, games, several new rides and chainsaw carving shows. Sunday’s chicken bbq begins at noon.

It’s not too late to register for Coach Scott Woodward’s “Just DU It” Memorial Duathlon scheduled for Saturday, September 23^rd at 9:00 am at the Lapham Mills Recreation Park in Peru, NY. The duathlon will begin with a 2.5 mile run, followed by a 12 mile bike ride, and concludes with an additional 2.5 mile run. There is both an individual or team category and a fat tire division. To register for the event or to make a donation, go to the Adirondack Coast Event’s website at www.adirondackcoastevents.com and click on “Race Calendar and Results”. For further information, visit the duathlon’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/coachwoodward/ or email Cheryl Breen Randall at cbreenlp@gmail.com.

The run portion of the race will start at the Lapham Mills Recreation Park along Route 22 west to the Village of Peru and turn around at the Hayworth-Mason Park entrance back to the recreation park. Cyclists will start out at the recreation park and cycle east on the Lapham Mills Road, turning right on Route 9 cycling along the Lake Shore and turning right on the Caristrap Road. Cyclists will continue by turning  right on the Jabez Allen Road, left on Bear Swamp Road and right on the Dashnaw Road back to the recreation park.  Residents along the route and drivers should be aware of runners and cyclists from 9 am until approximately noon.

All proceeds of the duathlon will benefit the Scott W. Woodward Memorial Scholarship at Peru Central School where three scholarships will be awarded annually to a senior female and male track and/or cross country runner and a varsity football player.  Scott was an alumnus and longtime track and cross country coach at Peru Central School, and enthusiastic cyclist winning four NYS Time Trial Championships for Team Placid Planet.

Source: Search for missing man takes rangers into harshest Adirondack terrain | NCPR News

Source: New York just made it easier for teachers to get certified – Times Union

Source: Whispering Maples repairs to begin – Sun Community News & Printing

Completed Jarvis Rd. Bridge

By John T. Ryan

Peru – Construction of a new Jarvis Road Bridge began on June 12th. Today, following an inspection by Clinton County Highway Superintendent Al Rascoe, the bridge was opened for traffic. A John Deer tractor driven by Tyler Irwin was the first vehicle to cross the bridge.

New Century Construction of Watervliet was the general contractor on the $765,000 project that was completed far ahead of the October 31st deadline. Al Rascoe said, “We’ve had good experiences working with New Century.”

Tyler Irwin was the first “civilian” to drive across the bridge.

Tyler Irwin

The bridge replaced an approximately 60 year old structure. The new bridge is expected to last approximately 75 years. It’s being paid for by county, state and federal funding.

The Jarvis  Road bridge is very important to Peru’s dairy farmers and orchardists, as well as, people traveling from Clintonville, Au Sable Forks and other communities to  Morrisonville, Plattsburgh and Dannemora.

Source: Primary elections coming up Tuesday | Local News | pressrepublican.com

L-R Religious Education Director Janice Morse, Parish Secretary Rebecca Watkins, Pastor Rev. Alan Shnob, Bookkeeper Jackie Black.

The St. Augustine’s & St. Patrick’s Parish staff is #15 in the Peru Gazette photo series featuring people who make Peru a wonderful place to live. Guided by Rev. Alan Shnob they do their best to assist parishioners and to welcome new members to the 700 family parish community. St. Augustine’s Church was incorporated in 1883 and a church was blessed in 1891. The first Mass at today’s church was celebrated in 1981.

AGENDA – TOWN BOARD REGULAR MEETING
September 11, 2017
7:00 PM

Call Meeting To Order

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll Call

Moment of Silence for 9/11 Remembrance.

MOTION: Approval of Minutes for the Town Board Regular Meeting of August 28, 2017

DISCUSSION/MOTION: Reports from all Departments: (Water/Sewer/Valcour; Highway; Town Clerk; Dog Control; Youth Department; Code/Zoning; Supervisor’s Report; Court; Website; and Banking Reports)

Community Input

DISCUSSION/RESOLUTION: No Parking on North Bend Street.

DISCUSSION/RESOLUTION: No Parking on Jenkins Street.

DISCUSSION: Pleasant Street Drainage

DISCUSSION/RESOLUTION: Battle of Valcour Monument Relocation.

DISCUSSION/RESOLUTION: Internal Audit Acceptance.

DISCUSSION: Lyons Road Schoolhouse Roofing Update.

DISCUSSION: Tobacco Free Continued Discussion.

DISCUSSION: Clinton Co. Health Dept. Healthy Neighborhoods Initiative Grant Application.

DISCUSSION: Logics, LLC Software Workshop.

DISCUSSION: Laphams Mills Park Vandalism.

DISCUSSION: September 15 Water Operator Training.

Other Business.
Community Input on Agenda Items.

Motion to Adjourn.

Source: Report: two North Country hospitals lost millions of dollars in recent years | NCPR News