The Peru Gazette

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 »

Source: More Norsk machines bound for Plattsburgh | News | pressrepublican.com

Homeland Security Honor Guard & Au Sable Valley School Superintendent Paul Savage

There was a huge turnout of local residents this morning for the North Country Honor Flight Ceremony at the U.S. Oval. What a wonderful send-off for the deserving War War II and Korean War Era Veterans.

Click here to view all our Peru Gazette photos. 

A message from Town of Plattsburgh Supervisor Michael Cashman

Early this year the Towns of Plattsburgh and Town of Schuyler Falls NY passed a joint resolution asking Senator Betty Little and Assemblyman D. Billy Jones to sponsor legislation to name the NYS RT 22B Morrisonville Bridge after North Country Legend Gordie Little. Senator Little successfully got the NYS Senate to pass the legislation. We just got word Assemblyman Jones was successful in getting the NYS Assembly to pass the same. A special thank you to our two representatives for working so hard on this. It now goes on to Governor Cuomo for his signature. We will keep people updated.