The Peru Gazette

Click here to view Ausable Chasm at 7:40 a.m. today. (June 30, not July 30 as stated at the beginning of the video) 

FLASH FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT FROM 11 AM EDT THIS MORNING THROUGH LATE SATURDAY NIGHT… THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN BURLINGTON HAS ISSUED A * FLASH FLOOD WATCH FOR CENTRAL AND NORTHERN VERMONT, AS WELL AS ALL OF NORTHERN NEW YORK * FROM 11 AM EDT THIS MORNING THROUGH LATE SATURDAY NIGHT. * NUMEROUS SHOWERS AND EMBEDDED THUNDERSTORMS PRODUCED A SWATH OF HEAVY RAINFALL ACROSS CENTRAL AND NORTHERN PORTIONS OF THE NORTH COUNTRY SINCE YESTERDAY AFTERNOON, WITH RADAR AND AUTOMATED GAGE REPORTS INDICATING ONE AND HALF TO TWO AND HALF INCHES OF RAIN HAVE FALLEN. THIS RAINFALL HAS LED TO RAPID RISES OF CREEKS AND SMALLER RIVERS. * SCATTERED TO NUMEROUS SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS WILL DEVELOP ACROSS THE AREA DURING THE AFTERNOON HOURS TODAY AND AGAIN SATURDAY, WITH ADDITIONAL RAINFALL AMOUNTS OF 1 TO 2 INCHES OR HIGHER EXPECTED THROUGH SATURDAY NIGHT. THIS ADDITIONAL RAINFALL WILL LIKELY CAUSE ADDITIONAL RISES ON AREA CREEKS AND RIVERS, WITH LOCALIZED FLASH FLOODING A DISTINCT POSSIBILITY. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS… A FLASH FLOOD WATCH MEANS THAT CONDITIONS MAY DEVELOP THAT LEAD TO FLASH FLOODING. FLASH FLOODING IS A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION. YOU SHOULD MONITOR LATER FORECASTS AND BE PREPARED TO TAKE ACTION SHOULD FLASH FLOOD WARNINGS BE ISSUED. &&

CALL MEETING TO ORDER AT 7 PM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL of June 14, 2017 minutes.
OPEN FLOOR to public hearing
APPLICATIONS:

1. Site Plan Review: P-2017-013 Leon Blair
Site Plan Review – Retail Store
2924 Main St.
Peru, NY 12972
7. ANY FURTHER BUSINESS:
8. CEO REPORT:
9. ADJOURNMENT

By John T. Ryan

Peru – This week 260 teens from six states have been participating in community service projects at 85 sites within a 30 mile radius of Plattsburgh. They are participating in a Catholic Heart Workcamp. Three groups have been in Peru painting the classrooms at St. Augustine’s Parish Center, gardening at St. Patrick’s Oratory and painting a Peru resident’s home. Hope Griffin, the group leader at the parish center explained, “We hope the workcamp will help the teens realize what it means to be Catholic, how works go together with faith. We want them to be spiritually engaged with the service they’re performing.”

The teens working in the Plattsburgh region came from Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey, Michigan and New York. They are being housed at Seton Catholic High School. Their day begins with mass and faith sharing. From 8:30 AM to 3 PM they have been painting, gardening, cleaning up yards, working in soup kitchens and building handicapped ramps. When they return to Seton Catholic they participate in faith-building, music and fun activities. Nine local priests were present last night for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Undoubtedly their sleeping bags and air mattresses feel good at the end of the long day.

Several of the teens working in Peru have participated in work camps for two or more years. Alexia Willoughby explained, “I participated last year and loved it. I wanted to help out again.” Bradley Yeich said, “I liked it the first two years. I enjoy getting to know new people.” Peyton Snidanko, a 9th grader said, “I knew kids who came before me. I got excited and wanted to help.” Erin Judge said 50 to 60 young people from her parish’s youth group are participating this summer. Peyton, Alexia, Bradley and Erin are all from Michigan.

The Catholic Heart Workcamp program began in a Florida parish in 1993 and continues to expand. The program includes play as well as work. The Michigan teens stopped at Niagara Falls on the way to Peru. About 80 youths will tour Lake Placid before leaving for home. They appear to have all appreciated this region’s beauty and hospitality. Let’s hope they return.

On June 10, New York State Environmental Conservation Officer Brad Buffa received information about an individual from Keeseville that had posted photos on his Facebook page indicating he had taken over the limit of turkeys during the May turkey hunting season. Photos on the subject’s Facebook page showed the individual with one turkey taken on opening day and two turkeys taken on Mother’s Day. The hunter posted a picture of himself with the two turkeys captioned: “Two birds with one stone, (well, shot).” Hunters are only allowed two turkeys during the spring season and cannot take more than one turkey per day. ECO Buffa interviewed the individual who posted the photos. He admitted to taking all three turkeys, claiming he accidentally shot the two turkeys with one shot. In total, four tickets were issued for the hunting violations, including Taking Over the Season Limit and Over the Daily Limit of Turkeys. The tickets are returnable on June 26 in the Chesterfield Town Court.

Persons of any faith or of no faith can appreciate the gift Peru has in St. Patrick’s Oratory and Mother Cabrini Shrine. Father Alan Shnob, volunteers and staff put their hearts and souls into caring for it. It’s a place of peace, serenity and beauty. Click here for photos taken today June 28, 2017. 

POTSDAM, NY – Nick Lawliss of Peru, N.Y., a senior at Clarkson University majoring in mechanical engineering, received the Mechanical & Aeronautical Engineering Staff Award as the most promising senior in his major. The recipients are selected by the mechanical & aeronautical engineering faculty based on scholastic performance and other activities.

Editor’s Note: Please appreciate these wonderful people who find time to serve our community. Let them you know you appreciate them when you have an opportunity.

Officials at United Way of the Adirondack Region, Inc. have named Todd McCarthy the 2018 campaign chair. Mr. McCarthy is the owner of Lenny’s Shoe & Apparel. Todd is a United Way of the Adirondack Region, Inc. board member and has served for two years on their Allocation Committee. He is a staunch supporter of many charities in the region and is a dedicated volunteer. “Todd was a good choice because of his enthusiasm and dedication to United Way’s mission” stated Kathy Snow, Director of Development. “His energy just radiates from him on to all he touches thus making him a good leader.”

Chad Dashnaw has been awarded the 2017-2018 Faculty Memorial Scholarship. Dashnaw, a Biochemistry major from Peru, has been involved with undergraduate research and work in the student lab..

The scholarships are being given in memory of Margaret Hannay and Fr. Mathias Doyle, O.F.M.

Founded in 1937, Siena College is a private, Catholic Franciscan, residential, liberal arts college with a student body of about 3,000. Siena College offers 31 degree programs, 80+ minors and certificate programs, and professional curricula in teacher preparation/education, pre-medical, pre-law and social work. A student-to-faculty ratio of 11-to-1, average class size of 21, rigorous academics, Division I athletics, intramural sports and widespread service and advocacy experiences nurture each student’s personal growth while providing the education of a lifetime.

Amy Hartman of Peru, New York, was recently initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society. Hartman is pursuing a degree in Nursing at State University of New York College at Plattsburgh.

Hartman is among approximately 30,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.

Phi Kappa Phi was founded in 1897 Read more »

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today unveiled a new exhibit featuring rare Adirondack and Catskills artifacts, including historic maps, antique survey equipment, field notebooks, and photographs that tell the story of creation of the Adirondack and Catskill parks. The Birth of the “Blue Line” exhibit illustrates the vision, foresight, and toil that led to creation of the Forest Preserve 125 years ago.

“The Adirondacks were once threatened by excessive logging and deforestation,” Commissioner Seggos said. “It took the dedicated efforts of conservationists, local residents, land managers, and concerned New Yorkers to protect these vital lands and waters. Visiting the Birth of the “Blue Line” exhibit is a great way to learn more about these magnificent lands, residents and their rich history. Today, Governor Cuomo and DEC are committed to preserving the resources and character of the Adirondacks while creating new opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy one of our nation’s most beautiful places.”

Noted land surveyor Verplanck Colvin raised the alarm about threats to Adirondack resources as early as 1868. In 1884, a state forest commission created a detailed map of remaining timber resources in northern New York. An 1891 map includes an outline of a proposed Adirondack Park, delineated by a line drawn in blue ink. This is considered by historians to be the first map of the park.

Over time, the term “blue line” was understood to represent the actual boundary of the Adirondack Park. On May 20, 1892, Read more »

Washington Street Extension

Buttonwood Subdivision

Buttonwood Subdivision

By John T. Ryan

Peru – A proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Town of Peru and Buttonwood subdivision developer Donald Swain would exempt Swain from including sidewalks in the next phase of his development. The matter is on the Monday, June 26th Peru Town Board meeting agenda.

While the MOU’s details have not been released, its primary provisions involve Swain deeding land to the town of sufficient size to construct a much-needed sewage lift station to service his subdivision. Swain would also provide subdivision walking access to Sullivan Park. The town would agree to not require sidewalks when Swain develops 20 lots north of Winding Brook Drive.

At the board’s June 12th meeting Town Supervisor Peter Glushko indicated that he is satisfied with the MOU. He noted that sidewalks weren’t required for Buttonwood’s first phase and sidewalks in the next phase wouldn’t be connected to any existing sidewalks. He said, “They would lead to nowhere.”  Glushko is also very concerned with the costs to be incurred upgrading the aging sewer system. Grants are being sought; however, substantial costs will undoubtedly be incurred by the district’s 552 users.

At the June 12th meeting, Peru resident John Ryan (this reporter) expressed the opinion that sidewalks are important in a family-oriented subdivision. Families appreciate the safety they offer to children within the subdivision even if not connected to other sidewalks. Sidewalks also conform to the Peru Comprehensive Plan’s goal of making the town more pedestrian friendly. Ryan cited the Washington Street Extension as an example. The street has attracted several young families;  the children play safely on the sidewalk; and the homes are among the most salable in Peru.

Ryan also asked if the Planning Board had been consulted and if the MOU would preclude Planning Board action to require  sidewalks when Swain begins to develop the lots.  The Planning Board had not been consulted and Town Attorney Matt Favro said he believed the MOU would negate any Planning Board attempt to require sidewalks.

Peru Gazette attempts to contact Donald Swain were not answered; however, developer George Barnett Jr. described the dilemma local developers face. He said, “To construct a 500 foot cul-de-sac for four lots would cost $20,000 per lot just for development. If you have to sit on the land for any amount of time you’re going to lose money.” Property values in Peru have remained stable over the past 15 to 20 years while development costs have drastically increased.

As for sidewalks, Barnett said, “I think sidewalks are an improvement, but I think they should be done at the town’s expense. The town should be working with developers. Developed property will bring the town much more revenue than vacant land.”

Planning Board Chairman Richard Williams said he had not been informed of the proposed MOU.  He commented, “We like the idea of sidewalks.  We required the Washington Street Extension developer to include sidewalks. He originally wanted to paint a line on the highway to designate a walking zone.”

Planning Board Member and former Comprehensive Planning Board Committee member Adele Douglas said, “I definitely favor sidewalks when traffic is an issue. I’m not so sure inside a residential development.” She said a consultant told the Comprehensive Planning Committee that residential development is trending toward fewer paved surfaces because of runoff and environmental issues. She pointed out that Peru zoning law requires sidewalks in the hamlet, but does not require them outside the hamlet. Buttonwood is not designated as being in the hamlet. Note related article.  The need for sidewalks is often debated (2015 article) 

June 26 @ 7:00 PM at the Peru Town Hall
Call Meeting To Order

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll Call

MOTION: Approval of Minutes for the June 12, 2017 Regular Board Meeting.

Community Input

DISCUSSION: Dog Walk Fund Raising Event.

DISCUSSION/RESOLUTION: Proclamation Canada 150.

DISCUSSION: Left Over Water Funds and Water Plant Upgrades.

DISCUSSION: Grant Updates.

DISCUSSION: Lead/Copper Sampling.

DISCUSSION/MOTION: Declaration of 2004 Ford F250 Surplus.

DISCUSSION: Ball Field Maintenance.

DISCUSSION: Swain MOU Update.

DISCUSSION: IT Update.

DISCUSSION: Main Street Project Walk Audit.

DISCUSSION: Internal Audits.

DISCUSSION: Other Business.

DISCUSSION: Public Comments on Agenda Items Only.

DISCUSSION/RESOLUTION: Approve/Pay Bills.

MOTION: Adjourn

Onterrio LaDuke stopped and talked

By John T. Ryan

Peru – Stephanie Ormsby is #4 in our Peru Gazette photo series featuring people who make Peru a wonderful place to live.

For many of the people who bring children to Peru Elementary School’s grade 3-6 entrance, Stephanie Ormsby’s warm greeting is a wonderful way to start the day. Each morning, during good weather and bad, she’s at the school’s front entrance greeting drivers and children with a bright smile and an enthusiastic wave. It was difficult taking photos Wednesday morning because so many boys and girls wanted to give her a hug or to say a few words to her. When a student and her dad arrived on a motorcycle, Stephanie waved to the dad and then joined the student to wave goodby as he drove away and a second and third time as he traveled down Pleasant Street.

Elementary Principal Matt Slattery is very aware of Stephanie’s work saying, “We all appreciate the positivity, optimism and friendly disposition Stephanie brings to the start of each day.”

Many people send Stephanie thank you notes or just say “thank you for being so nice.” When people ask how she keeps such a positive attitude she responds, “Why wouldn’t I?” She does admit that during the snowy and rainy days being so nice can be challenging. She commented, “I hate getting my hair wet!”

L-R Zoey Snider, Stephanie, Nora Mesec, Cierra LaDuke, Natalie Baker

Stephanie greets Haleigh Herringshaw

Stephanie Ormsby has been a Peru Elementary School teaching assistant for 22 years and has been greeting everyone at the school’s front entrance for the past five years.

Source: Prevost lands biggest contract in its history | Local News | pressrepublican.com

This is very big news for all the North Country! 

VISTA OPPORTUNITY – AmeriCorps VISTA Member (Volunteers in Service to America)

United Way of the Adirondack Region, Inc. is seeking a dynamic individual with excellent communication skills, problem solving skills and ability to work effectively as part of a team and manage multiple projects.

Preferred skills and qualifications:
Education:
Associate’s degree or higher
Skills:
Excellent communication skills.
Problem solving skills.
Ability to work effectively as part of a team and manage multiple projects.
Experience in Human Services and nonprofit sector is helpful.

Source: Legislature passes bill to ban use of e-cigarettes indoors – Capitol Confidential

Source: Cuomo signs bill to raise the age for marriage – Capitol Confidential

Source: Battle over NYC schools has impact upstate – Times Union

Very important story that all NYS residents should read.

Source: Malone’s Valehaven adult home to close in August | Local News | pressrepublican.com

Spring 2017 Semester

Presidential Scholars: 

Clarkson University – Samantha Crosby, a senior majoring in communication and Nick Lawliss, a senior majoring in mechanical engineering

Siena College – Michael Mills and Alyssa Murphy

SUNY Canton – Jamie Vogt, a criminal investigation major

SUNY Potsdam – Kali Dorey, a psychology major; Molly Lawliss, a childhood/early childhood education major; Matthew Nugent, a business economics major.

Dean’s List: 

SUNY Canton – Chase R. Boyer, a business administration major; Otis Edwards, an air conditioning maintenance and repair major; Raymond P. Flick, a veterinary science technology major

SUNY Geneseo – Teagan Plimpton and Maria Remillard

SUNY Potsdam – Keagen Briggs, a history major and Hillary Drake, an exercise science major

The University of Vermont – Rebecca Pellerin, a microbiology major

By John T. Ryan

Peru – James Hilchey joined the Boy Scouts at age 12. Tonight, at age 18, he became an Eagle Scout in ceremonies conducted at St. Augustine’s Parish Center. The son of Jennifer Reyell-Cameron and Christopher Hilchey, James will be a senior at Saranac High School this fall. Peru Troop 8049 Scout Master Fred Tuller complimented Hilchey saying, “James has grown a lot. He’s become a good role model for upcoming scouts.”

Eagle Scout candidates must satisfy numerous requirements including planning, developing, and giving leadership to others in a service project helpful to any religious institution, any school, or their community. Hilchey concentrated on Baker Cemetery in Morrisonville by leading a graveyard cleanup, a cemetery mapping and constructing a cemetery sign-in box.

Tonight he thanked others saying, “I couldn’t have completed the project without the help of others.” He mentioned his grandparents Craig and Lynn Hilchey, Eric Hidook, Richard Mason Jr. and Richard Mason Sr., D.J, and Sam Trombley.

The Boy Scouts have many requirements to achieve their highest rank of Eagle Scout. They include:

1.Be active in your troop for at least six months as a Life Scout.

2. As a Life Scout, demonstrate Scout Spirit by living the Scout Oath and Scout Law. Tell how you have done your duty to God, how you have lived the Scout Oath and Scout Law in your everyday life, and how your understanding of the Scout Oath and Scout Law will guide your life in the future. List on your Eagle Scout Rank Application the names of individuals who know you personally and would be willing to provide a recommendation on your behalf, including parents/guardians, religious (if not affiliated with an organized religion, then
the parent or guardian provides this reference), educational, employer (if employed), and two other references.

3. Earn a total of 21 merit badges Read more »