The Peru Gazette

From the Office of the Peru Central School Superintendent

Peru Jr/Sr High School received a report on Friday, October 23 that a group of student athletes, while off campus, took actions which violated the District’s Conduct & Discipline Policy and Philosophy of Interscholastic Sports.  District administrators immediately began to investigate the actions, and continue to address the matter, as provided for under Board policies.

The Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Patrick Brimstein said, “The Peru community recognizes that athletics offer young people an opportunity to learn and grow, and values its athletic traditions. It is unfortunate when students, for whatever reasons, decide to ignore the guidance and behavioral expectations provided by the District’s policy and philosophy, and make decisions which may be harmful to themselves and their teammates. While the actions taken by District administrators in response to the athletes’ misconduct is confidential, the District takes violations of its behavior code seriously.  The District is taking steps to promote the wellbeing of all of its students.”

The District’s anti-hazing policies are clearly written and intended to safeguard the dignity and wellbeing of all students.  The District will strictly enforce its anti-hazing policies. Any reports of hazing are handled on a priority basis, and may result in the immediate removal of a student athlete from athletic competitions.

New York National Guard troops, in conjunction with the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, will be presenting a free disaster preparedness class at the Northeastern Clinton Central High School here on Monday, Nov. 2.

The two-hour program begins at 5:30 p.m. in the Francis “Bud” Moore Auditorium. The school is located at 103 Route 276 in Champlain.

The event is part of Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s continuing Citizen Preparedness Corps Training Program, which provides citizens with the knowledge and tools to prepare for emergencies and disasters, respond accordingly, and recover as quickly as possible to pre-disaster conditions.

Working with the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) and local emergency management personnel, troops are conducting these training events across the state.

Citizens should register for the event at http://www.nyprepare.gov/aware-prepare/nysprepare/

Since the program’s launch in early February 2014, Read more »

Peru United Soccer Club still has limited openings for our U06, U08, and U10 programs.  Give your child an opportunity to play and burn some energy this winter with our indoor soccer program.  Our programs offer the following:

All teams strive for the smallest squad size possible.  This allows for more 1-on-1 training time and more playing time.

U06:

– 8, 1-hour training dates held in the Peru Intermediate Gym

– Saturdays (11/7, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/5, 12/12, 1/2, 1/9) 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

– Includes Peru United training shirt

– ONLY $60 for Session 1

U08/U10:

– 8, 1 1/2-hour training dates held in the Peru Intermediate Gym

– 8 indoor soccer games played at the Crete Civic Center

– U08 games primarily on Thursdays

– U10 games primarily on Tuesdays

– Saturdays (11/7, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/5, 12/12, 1/2, 1/9) 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

– Includes Peru United Soccer Club jersey.

– ONLY $135 for Session 1, and ONLY $235 for Session 1 AND 2!

We are open to anyone, regardless of the community you live in or the school your children attend.  We accept cash, check, and credit cards.  Please act fast and contact us, teams are filling up much quicker than expected and we don’t want anyone to miss out.

Thank You,

Alex Jess – Executive Director

 Copy of 2015-16 Registration Form.pdf

 Copy of 2015-16 Letter to Families.pdf

 Copy of 2015-16 Sport Parent Code of Conduct.pdf

By Don McBrayer

Feral Cats, and how to handle them, has been an ongoing topic at Town Board meetings for a number of years. The Town Board is aware of the recent increase in the number of stray and feral cats, but find it difficult to offer solutions that are effective without being cruel to the cats or a burden on the taxpayer.

My thinking is that the first step to resolving a problem is by understanding the problem. If we understand what feral cats are, how the live, what the risk to humans and pets are, and how to control their numbers we can begin to take steps to get feral cats under control.

What is a feral cat? A feral cat is a cat that does not socialize with humans. They are usually 2nd or 3rd generation cats that have never been pets or lived in a home. They are clean, robust animals that can fend for themselves and are acclimated to living outdoors. They live an average of 2 years (though some studies show they can live as long as 10 years or more with proper food and shelter). They are capable of breeding every few months. Like many animals in the wild, they produce a lot of offspring to offset the fact that 75% of their young do not survive past six months. They very rarely carry disease, and are no more a threat to humans or other pets than domesticated cats. Think of them like we do pigeons or squirrels; living near humans, depending on us to some degree, but not tame. It is very difficult to make a feral cat a pet. Learn more at: www.alleycat.org/FeralCat

www.forgottencats.org/feralcat.php

www.aspca.org/adopt/feral-cats-faq

Are those smells of pies and pumpkin rolls baking tempting you already for Thanksgiving? If so, the Ladies Guild of the Peru Community Church will again be offering assistance by selling baked apple pies, unbaked apple pies, pumpkin pies and pumpkin cream cheese rolls. The deadline for ordering any of these delicious treats is Sunday, November 15^th at noon. All items can be picked up at Fellowship Center on Tuesday, November 24^th from 2:00 to 6:00pm. The pumpkin rolls are $12 each and the pies are $8 each. To order, please call 643-8641.

Regular Mtg Agenda26Oct2015

Source: Breaking: Paul Smith’s College accepts court ruling, finds new donor | NCPR News

Monday, November 16^th 2015, 10AM-12pm, PLATTSBURGH PUBLIC LIBRARY, 19 Oak Street Plattsburgh, NY 12901

Free and Open to the Public

Learn what the big energy users in your home are, which appliances are costing the most to use, and more.

Low-cost and no-cost methods to reduce energy bills will be emphasized. Learn also how to get financial help to make larger energy efficiency improvements.

To RSVP call Cornell Cooperative Extension at 561-7450, or email Sara Bull at slk95@cornell.edu.

ITHACA — Students from five local schools made the trip to Ithaca College to take part in the 11th annual High School Gospel Music Invitational Sept. 25-26.

Source: Local high school students ‘go to church’ at Gospel festival – Sun Community News & Printing

PLATTSBURGH — The Alliance for Positive Health’s Syringe Exchange Program reached new heights by collecting 17,000 used syringes, gaining 61 members, saving nine lives from overdose and getting three people into treatment.

Source: Local group collects over 17,000 syringes in exchange program – Sun Community News & Printing

Story Update: Peru Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Photo: Front L-R Shawn Edwards, Peter Keenan Sr., Theresa Bobal Sindelar, Brent Banker. Back Row L-R Kris Bruno who accepted on behalf of his brother Kregg Bruno, Matt St. Clair, Mark and Sarah Wheet who accepted on behalf of their daughter Stephanie Wheet.

The 2015 Peru Athletic Hall of Fame banquet was held at the American Legion on the Quarry Road, October 3rd.

The inductees were: Brent Banker – Coach

Brent Banker graduated from Peru High School in 1980. As an athlete, he participated four years in track and field as a distance runner- from 1977 to 1980. In those four years, the track and field teams won two CVAC titles in1977 and 1980, and one Section Seven championship in 1978. He was one of the captains of the 1980 track team. He was a state qualifier in 1980 for the 3200 meter event.

Brent also ran cross country for three years- from 1977 to 1979. He was a state qualifier in cross country in 1978 and 1979. He was captain of the 1979 team. In 1979, the cross country team won both the CVAC championship title and the Section Seven crown.

Brent coached at Peru from 1987 to 1995. From 1987 to 94 he coached girls’ junior varsity soccer and girls’ junior varsity volleyball. From 1989 to 1991, girls’ varsity volleyball 92 to 95 and girls’ varsity track and field from 1987 to 1995.

He was head coach for the girls’ varsity track and field team from 1988 to 1995. During this time teams compiled 76 wins and 1 loss. They won seven CVAC titles and seven Section Seven titles. From 1989 to 1995 the teams won 65 consecutive dual meets.

As the girls’ varsity volleyball coach, his teams recorded 46 wins and 7 losses. They won one CVAC title in 1992 – 1993 season and won two Section Seven titles in the 93-94 and 94-95 seasons.

Matthew St. Clair – Athlete

Matt, a 2003 graduate of Peru High School, was one of the most outstanding football players in New York State during the 2001 and 2002 seasons. In 2001, he had 44 receptions for 1014 yards and 16 touchdowns for the Indians in their state championship season- which culminated with Matt’s two touchdown receptions and one interception that earned him most valuable player in the state championship game.

His performance did not wane his senior year. He earned first team all-state for the second straight year as the Indians went undefeated in the regular season, only to be upset in the playoffs. Other noteworthy honors that he received were 2000 CVAC Section 7 1^st team wide receiver, the 2001 New York State Class B 1^st team wide receiver, and the CVAC – Section 7 1^st team wide receiver. In 2002 Matt was recognized as the CVAC-Section 7 1^st team wide receiver and punt returns, CVAC-Section 7, 2^nd team free safety, North Country Super Bowl – offensive player of the game, and CVAC career leader in receiving yards and touchdown receptions. He also won the honor of career leader in receiving yards and touchdown receptions in the history of Peru Central School. Matt’s football career culminated with a total of 85 receptions, 1795 yards, 28 touchdowns and 1 conversion.

Matt was also outstanding in basketball and baseball, but his football career for the Indians places him among the Peru greats in the Hall of Fame.

Melvin Bob Bruno – Athlete 

Bob graduated from Peru Central School in 1948. Bob lettered in Soccer, Basketball, and Baseball. Tony Papero, Athletic Director at Peru High School, was quoted as saying “Bob Bruno was, by far, one of the finest athletes I have ever coached at Peru Central School. He gave 100% to each of three sports in which he competed and he excelled at all three”. Bob was a teammate on several outstanding teams-alongside fellow classmate and Hall of Fame inductee Pete Keenan.

After graduation from Peru, Bob joined the U. S. Army during the Korean War. Upon his discharge from the Army he attended SUNY Plattsburgh and graduated in 1963. Bob was employed at Peru Central School from 1961 until retirement in 1992. He spent twenty-six years as classroom teacher at Northside School, followed by five years as administrator of the Intermediate School.

Bob’s entire adult life was dedicated to education and community betterment. He was a member of Board of Directors of the Clinton County Industrial and Agricultural Fair and President from 1977 through 1983. He was Recreation Director of the Town of Schuyler Falls from 1974 through 1983. He also served in local government was a member of the Clinton County Legislature from 1984 to 1998-serving as the Chairman from 1986 through 1996. He served on the Clinton County Nursing Home Board and Clinton Community College Foundation Corporate Board.

In April of 1996 Bob proposed the establishment of Clinton Community College to the Legislature and through his hard work the college was established. In 2006, Clinton Community College was awarded the first ever Honorary Degree in the Humanities. In 2008 a street was dedicated to Bob, known as the “BOB BRUNO WAY”.   In his spare time, he was a race car driver at Airborne Speed way along with other race tracks.

Bob graduated from Peru Central School in 1948. Bob lettered in Soccer, Basketball, and Baseball. Tony Papero, Athletic Director at Peru High School, was quoted as saying “Bob Bruno was, by far, one of the finest athletes I have ever coached at Peru Central School. He gave 100% to each of three sports in which he competed and he excelled at all three”. Bob was a teammate on several outstanding teams-alongside fellow classmate and Hall of Fame inductee Pete Keenan.

After graduation from Peru, Bob joined the U. S. Army during the Korean War. Upon his discharge from the Army he attended SUNY Plattsburgh and graduated in 1963. Bob was employed at Peru Central School from 1961 until retirement in 1992. He spent twenty-six years as classroom teacher at Northside School, followed by five years as administrator of the Intermediate School.

Bob’s entire adult life was dedicated to education and community betterment. He was a member of Board of Directors of the Clinton County Industrial and Agricultural Fair and President from 1977 through 1983. He was Recreation Director of the Town of Schuyler Falls from 1974 through 1983. He also served in local government was a member of the Clinton County Legislature from 1984 to 1998-serving as the Chairman from 1986 through 1996. He served on the Clinton County Nursing Home Board and Clinton Community College Foundation Corporate Board.

In April of 1996 Bob proposed the establishment of Clinton Community College to the Legislature and through his hard work the college was established. In 2006, Clinton Community College was awarded the first ever Honorary Degree in the Humanities. In 2008 a street was dedicated to Bob, known as the “BOB BRUNO WAY”.   In his spare time, he was a race car driver at Airborne Speed way along with other race tracks.

Peter Keenan Sr. – Athlete 

Pete graduated from Peru High School in 1948. While at Peru, Pete competed in Soccer 45-48, Cross Country 46 and 47, Basketball 45-48, Baseball 45-48, Track 47 and 48 and 8 man football in 1947. Pete played soccer for 4 years. There was no soccer in 1944 because of the war. School closed at noon so students could pick apples.

In Basketball Pete played for 4 years and was chosen a league all-star four times. The 44-45 and 47-48 teams were outstanding. Pete played baseball from 1945-1948 and won the class B Sectionals in 1948.

Pete also starred in Track-running the 100 yard dash. He was a member of the star 880 relay team and also excelled at the shot put.

Pete also coached on the varsity baseball team in 1985. Pete is a man who wears more than one hat. Pete is a Justice of the Peace in Peru and a member of the Clinton County Legislature. He umpired baseball for many years in both the men’s’ CVBL and the high school CVL.

Shawn Edwards – Athlete 

Shawn, a 1991 graduate of Peru High School, was a three sport athlete. While attending Peru he competed in soccer, wrestling and track. He earned 10 varsity letters: 6 in wrestling, 3 in soccer and 1 in track and field.

Shawn played varsity soccer for three years and was captain his junior and senior years. He led the team to a sectional title as a junior; he was noted for his flip throw in and his knuckle ball kick on the ball. He was named Honorable Mention Team his sophomore year and chosen to be a First team All-Star his junior and senior year.

His high school career started in seventh grade on the wrestling team. Needless to say, Shawn excelled in wrestling, winning 20 tournament titles. He was the first Peru wrestler to win 5 sectional titles and 5 Peru Invitational titles. He held the record for a number of years with 103 pins. He was also named Outstanding Wrestler in a number of tournaments. He was the first wrestler to enter the Sesquicentennial Club with a record of 150 and 27. Shawn went to the state tournament 5 times and placed 6th in the NYSPHSAA meet as a sophomore. He placed 2nd as a senior when there was only one division. After high school, Shawn went to Morrisville Community College where he compiled a record of 20 and 10 and qualified for the NJCAA National Wrestling Championships in Bismarck, ND.

Stephanie Wheet – Athlete 

Stephanie graduated in 1994 where she lettered in soccer, basketball and softball. She participated in varsity soccer all four years in high school and was team captain in 1994.

She played basketball from 91 through 94 and was captain in 1994. In 1993, she received the Sportsmanship Award at the Queensbury Holiday Tournament, and in 1994 she was voted the team’s most valuable player for the season.

Stephanie lettered all four years in softball and was captain in 1994. In 1991, she received the Sportsmanship Award for the year. In 1993, the team was the first team in Section Seven to win the scholar/athlete state championship. This was achieved by having the highest team grade point average of all the girls’ softball teams in the state. The team won the CVAC title and the Section Seven championship with a 16-2 record. Stephanie was selected to the All CVAC All-Star Team. In 1994, she was named to the elite All-State” 4^th team at the catcher position. This is a distinction that no other softball player in Section Seven had received to that point. She also received the team’s most valuable player award and was selected to the All-CVAC All-Star Team’s Catcher of the Year. Stephanie hit .572, scored 37 runs and drove in 42 runs that year. In June of 1994, she received the Ray A. Kroc youth achievement award for demonstrating all around excellence in the areas of citizenship, leadership, scholarship and extracurricular activities.

Theresa (Bobal) Sindelar – Athlete

Theresa (Bobal) Sindelar, Peru High School class of 1987, made her high school swimming debut in 1981, swimming on the varsity team as a 7^th grader. That year, she became the Section Seven champion in both the 100 yard butterfly and the 200 yard individual medley, setting school and section records in both events. She broke her own record the following year and continued to set pool, school and section records. The record times for each event were improved yet again in 1983 at the Section Championships and then again at the New York State meet. Theresa continued to shine in her two events over the years, and set pool and school records in other events as well, becoming the only swimmer in 1987 to have ever won sectional titles in an event six times. She was awarded Most Outstanding Swimmer honors by the Section many consecutive years. The Peru Varsity Swim team that Theresa was a part of won the Section Seven title for seven years straight.

Proud to be a student athlete, Theresa was also a part of the National Honor Society, French Honor Society, Model United Nations, Harvard United Nations and was a Regents Scholarship recipient.

The Peru Gazette posed six questions to each of the four candidates for the Peru Town Board. Ms. Blakelee’s responses were received four days after our October 14th deadline.

Summarize your educational background, primary employment, a little about your family and past community involvement.

I grew up in a large family in Windham, NY in the northern Catskills, graduated with a BA from Trinity College in Washington, DC where I spent most of my career as a journalist. In 2004, my husband and I moved back to upstate New York where I received a graduate degree in education from SUNY Plattsburgh.

Before moving to the North Country as executive producer at Mountain Lake PBS, I worked for the NewsHour with Jim Lehrer for 21 years where I covered politics, the economy, education, environmental and urban issues, defense, and the arts. Previous to the NewsHour, I worked for ABC News “20/20”, various PBS units, local news, and as an independent documentary producer. I date myself when I mention that my first big story was Watergate. While at the NewsHour, I won several awards including an Emmy and a Benton Fellowship to the University of Chicago. Now at age 67, I am very involved in my church, and President of the Board of Trustees at the Adirondack History Museum. I am also still writing stories for regional magazines, including Strictly Business and Strictly Food for Thought.

How will your background and/or successes assist you as a Clinton County Legislator?

I have been covering government as a journalist most of my working life which has given me a good working knowledge of the issues facing us.

What county issues concern you the most and how would you address these issues?

I am very concerned about the stifling effect of high property taxes and the lack of economic growth and well-paying jobs. If elected, I will work to bring more opportunities and better paying jobs to Clinton County. With more and better paying jobs, we broaden the tax base and reduce the number of people relying on social services which in turn would reduce our individual taxes.

Why should a person vote for you?

I come from a family that believes in service and giving back to the community and I am at a point in my life where I can do that and be honored to serve.

What party lines will your name appear on?

Working Families

The Peru Gazette posed six questions to each of the four candidates for the Peru Town Board. Here are Brandy McDonald’s responses.

Summarize your educational background, primary employment, a little about your family and your past community involvement.

 I graduated from Peru High School in 1993 and remained in Peru to raise my family.  I am happily married to my wife Amy of 15 years and we have three children.  I currently work for Hynes Electric Supply.  My first experience as a participating community member for the Town of Peru was my voluntary involvement with our Town Youth Program as a Committee Member for six years.  I also volunteered as a coach of eight years for our Peru Town Youth Program. I have been a Peru Town Councilman for the past eight years and served as the Town Deputy Supervisor for the last six years.

How will your background and/or successes assist you as a town council member?

My eight years as a town counselor along with my additional experience as the Deputy Supervisor for the last six years has given me vast knowledge of what is required to perform these positions properly and efficiently.  Over the years, I have been able to listen to our town residents with their issues and concerns, so I have a great understanding of what our residents expect from their town board.

What town issues concern you the most?

One issue our community faces is the expenditures of maintaining our roads during the winter months as the cost of salt we require to keep our roads safe, continues to significantly increases every year.  The annual increase in health insurance premiums is another important town issue effecting our town.  The other town board members and I are continually searching for ways to keep our budget under control, while managing these significant expenses which are a necessity to our community.

How would you address these issues?

 I will continue my diligent work with our town board members to find ways to cut unnecessary expenditures to manage the unforeseen increases in necessary expenditures.  The increase in health insurance premiums is actively researched by reviewing all the possible health plans offered in our area, so we can find a good affordable health plan for our employees.

Why should a person vote for you?

Residents should vote for me, because I am a determined councilman with a strong passion for being an active representative for all Peru residents. I work very hard to maintain the positive fellowship with all of our town board members, as it is important to our town that we work together to improve our town’s ability to keep moving forward.

What party lines will your name appear on?

•       Democrat
•       Conservative
•       Independence
•       Working Families

Thank you,

Brandy McDonald

The Peru Gazette posed six questions to each of the four candidates for the Peru Town Board. Here are Jim Langley’s responses.

Summarize your educational background, primary employment, a little about your family and your past community involvement.

Mount Assumption (Seton)HS Canton ATC AAS in Banking, Insurance and Real Estate.  The Aetna School of Insurance (Harford Ct.).  Insurance Agent/Broker since 1980.    Married to Tammy (Mischler), 2 children Tiffany (married) ELA teacher Troy NY. Tyler; joined family business 2015 and Peru JV Football coach.  Keeseville Elks Club, Plattsburgh Moose Lodge, Apple Valley Corporate Board, Community Bank Advisory Board.  Past member of Peru & Clinton County Planning Board.  County Legislator since (1999) past Chairman of the Board for 13 years (longest in county history)

How will your background and/or successes assist you as a town council member?

As Chairman of Clinton County legislature I worked with Governors, Federal and State Law makers, Major Official in the FAA in DC and NYC. Traveling to all their offices many times.  I have never let party get in the way of accomplishing my tasks.  Locally, worked with State officials, elected or otherwise.  While at the county we built a Connector Road, a Fire Training Tower, began a tourism committee that funds fishing derbies amongst other tourist events. Constructed a new Airport and weathered many natural disasters plus the loss of Plattsburgh Air Force Base. I believe in looking forward.

 What town issues concern you the most?

Providing services and staying within the tax cap.  I would like to see expansion of the existing infrastructure, paving going back to 10 miles a year, reuse of the Heyworth Building and more recreation for residents. I’m concerned with the absenteeism at the council and I don’t favor annual salary increases for the Council.

How would you address these issues?

We need to expand our tax base by getting more residences.  Encouraging development by making zoning friendlier for investors.  We need to work with our departments and get their input for growth, do more work in house, obtain grants.   I have 17 years of service to the county and impeccable attendance records.

Why should a person vote for you?

In short, my working experience with a high level of government at a low cost.

 What party lines will your name appear on?

Republican, Independence and Reform.

The Peru Gazette posed six questions to each of the four candidates for the Peru Town Board. Here are Kregg Bruno’s responses to the questions stated below.

Summarize your educational background, primary employment, a little about your family and your past community involvement. How will your background and/or successes assist you as a town council member? What town issues concern you the most? How would you address these issues? Why should a person vote for you? What party lines will your name appear on?

I married my wife Bonnie in 1987 and moved to Peru to raise my family, Christopher and Katie, and send them to Peru School where Bonnie and I both graduated from. I got involved in the community, coaches youth soccer, softball, and baseball for 12 years. My interest in politics began when I started attending board meetings in which nothing was being accomplished and the town of Peru was not being properly represented.

I want to continue to represent the people of Peru because I like the direction the Town is going in. The present Town Board has produced many new accomplishments that we should be proud of. The present Board has been able to set politics aside, work as a bi-partisan group, set and achieve goals and strive to keep Peru a great place to live and raise a family.

Budget time is always a crucial time of the year. With new tax caps, rising health care, and the importance to keep taxes affordable, its critical to make important financial decisions. Keeping the roadways and sidewalks up to date, as well as building new safe route to school, are always important in my decision making. Safe and clean water are a must throughout any community, and our Water and Sewer Departments have met the challenges. To continue to meet the needs of the community is also very important to me. Improvements to our new Heyworth Village walking trail and Parks, to keep a happy healthy community is something I’ll keep striving for. I’ll be going door to door and answering any question people may have before the election.  I want to thanks everyone for their past support and future support to continue to help Peru to grow and remain a great place to live. Thanks Kregg

The Peru Gazette posed six questions to each of the four candidates for the Peru Town Board. Here are Dwane Bast’s responses.

Summarize your educational background, primary employment, a little about your family and your past community involvement.

In 1982 I graduated from Peru Central School then continued my education at R.I.T. My wife and I own Adirondack Coffee Roasters, which started in Peru in 2007. Due to the need to expand our business we moved to Plattsburgh in 2013. I have been an active member of the Peru Knights of Columbus since 2007. I have been active with the Peru music boosters and also the soup kitchen. Every year I help with the Applefest, Peru walk of faith, and the Peru wrestling boosters.

How will your background and/or successes assist you as a town council member?

I believe that being my a business owner has given me the skills to work well with others, plan and follow a budget, time management and the ability to multitask.

What town issues concern you the most?

My first concern is that some of our town council have taken large amounts of time off at tax payers’ expense. The second is that we budget for only one year at a time and do not look consider a longer term approach.

How would you address these issues?

I will work hard for my pay and be available. If something took me away, I would find a way to pay back the town for time I was absent. I would also try to bring five and ten year plan to our town.

Why should a person vote for you?

I am hard working and care about our town. I believe that with some hard work, we can be one of the best towns in New York.

What party lines will your name appear on?

Republican and Reform Party lines.

The Peru Gazette posed six questions to each of the two candidates for Area Seven of the Clinton County Legislature. Here are Robbie Timmons’ responses.

Summarize your educational background, primary employment, a little about your family and past community involvement.

• Graduate of Peru High School (1985)
• Graduate of Paul Smith’s College (1989), degree in Hotel Restaurant Management
• Worked for several years in restaurant management positions
• Worked for the Town of Peru Highway Department and served as the elected Highway Superintendent for six years
• In 2008 started Rob’s Repairs providing remodeling, electrical and plumbing services
• Served ten years as a volunteer firefighter with Peru Fire Department
• Parents: Loretta and the late Robert Timmons
• My wife Michelle (Duprey) and I have two daughters, Lacy and Allie

How will your background and/or successes assist you as a Clinton County Legislator?

• While working for the Peru Highway Department, intensely involved in recovery from the 1998 ice storm and the severe floods of 1996 and 1998
• Worked collaboratively with the County and surrounding town highway departments dealing with these disasters
• Familiarity with federal and state disaster agencies brings a level of expertise to the Legislature on these issues
• As a successful private contractor for 7 years, I understand issues affecting small business owners

What county issues concern you the most?

• Further economic development
• Training of work force to meet employers’ demands
• Develop budgets to serve taxpayers’ needs within mandated tax cap
• Continued development of Plattsburgh International Airport

How would you address these issues?

• Continued growth of transportation hub
• Broadband, natural gas, wind and solar expansions
• Enhanced tourism promotion; support local businesses
• Collaborate with CCC, CV-TECH and local schools to properly train employees for vacant positions and future employment
• Develop appropriate budgets under mandated tax cap working with state legislators to assure the cap allows sufficient growth for needed services
• To enhance PIA as an international airport, we must work with local, state and federal officials to reach full potential

Why should a person vote for you?

• My experience with government budgeting and operations and my business success provides the skills to work effectively and cooperatively with County legislators, administrators, and departments.

What party lines will your name appear on?

• Republican and Reform Party lines

The Peru Gazette posed six questions to each of the two candidates for Area Five of the Clinton County Legislature. Here are Peter Keenan’s responses.

Summarize your educational background, primary employment, a little about your family and your past community involvement.

I am a widowed father of four and grandfather of four. I graduated from Peru Central School and Clinton Community College. I attended Plattsburgh State. I was in the Army Signal Corp. for two years during the Korean War Era. After 26 years, I retired from the New York State Dept. of Corrections. For 20 years, I drove school bus for Peru Central School. I was Peru Town Justice for 24 years. I have been an active member of the Peru Knights of Columbus for 33 years and a state chairman for 14 years. I was a softball and baseball umpire for 40 years. I was the Grand Marshall for the 2010 Applefest Parade. I was on the Dannemora Federal Credit Union Board of Directors’ Supervisory Committee for 10 years. I am the incumbent Area 5 Clinton County Legislator for the past 4 years.

How will your background and/or successes assist you as a town council member?

My upbringing, professional career, and extensive community involvement have prepared me well to serve on the Legislature.  I was born and raised in Clinton County and have lived here all of my life. I know the people and their challenges and will use my life experiences and good old fashion common sense to serve the good people of Peru and Schuyler Falls.

What county issues concern you the most?

Enticing economic development and job growth and keeping county property taxes stable along with the successful completion of the airport expansion. I am a member of the airport committee and securing airline service to a major hub city is an ongoing effort.

How would you address these issues?

The County Legislature, as a team that I am proud to be part of, have been successful in controlling county spending and in fact we delivered a property tax rate and levy decrease for the 2015 budget. We have accomplished that by careful scrutiny of spending and by prioritizing the needs of the citizens. We have made investments when there is a clear benefit for the tax payers and held the line on spending when that line is blurred.

Why should a person vote for you?

I hope that my record and the success of my first term would warrant the confidence of the voters for a second time. I have tried my best to make the right decisions for Clinton County and have always been available to hear the concerns of any citizen.

What party lines will your name appear on?

Democratic and Working Families Party.

The Peru Gazette posed six questions to each of the two candidates for Area Five of the Clinton County Legislature. Here are Rhonda Barber’s responses.

Summarize your educational background, primary employment, a little about your family and past community involvement.

I attended Saranac High School, graduating in 1986. I then went on to graduate from Siena College in Loudonville, NY in 1990 with a degree in finance. After college, I returned to Plattsburgh and started E-Z Sto. Upon my father’s retirement in 1999, my sister came on board and we are now co-owners of X-Plo/E-Z Sto. Our primary operations are transportation, storage and commercial warehousing. We have approximately 20 employees. My past community involvements have included coaching various teams for Saranac School and Peru Youth Commission; serving on various boards i.e. Plattsburgh Youth Hockey, Plattsburgh Lady Hornet Varsity Girls Hockey and Saranac Varsity Boys Hockey Booster Clubs; parent/team manager of various youth teams, Clinton Community College Foundation and NFIB Professional Business Leaders.

How will your background and/or successes assist you as a Clinton County Legislator?

I have always loved being involved, making decisions and being a part of making a difference. I am a great communicator and ideas are only as good as they are sold. The best ideas need to be communicated to the people for action to occur. In addition, I am a hard worker who is extremely organized. I give 110% in everything that I do. My keen business sense will allow me to run government like a business.

What county issues concern you the most? How would you address these issues?

I will NEVER vote to increase the tonnage coming into the landfill. I will also fight for my area to get compensation in exchange for being the counties dumping ground. I will push to build recreational, cultural and youth activities. I will sell the county as a tourist destination while promoting our region and lake. I will pursue increased shopping such as possible outlets which will draw people to the area and lead to increased tax revenue allowing us to maintain a stable tax rate.

Why should a person vote for you?

Our community needs new energy and forward thinking. I plan to serve the public interest with passion and competence while continuing to strengthen our towns with hard work and a keen business sense. These are the values that I deeply care about and are embedded in my daily work as a local business owner.

What party lines will your name appear on?

Republican, Independence, Conservative and Reform parties

The Peru Gazette expresses its thanks to the candidates for the Clinton County Legislature and Peru Town Board who were kind enough to respond to our questionnaire. We hope their answers will be of interest to local voters.  Rhonda Barber and Peter Keenan are competing for the Clinton County Legislature’s Area 5 Seat. Carol Blakeslee-Collin and Robbie Timmons are competing in Area 7.  Ms. Blakelee-Collin did not respond to our questionnaire. Four candidates are seeking two positions on the Peru Town Board. Kregg Bruno and Brandy McDonald are incumbents. They are being challenged by Dwane Bast and James Langley.

All the candidates deserve praise for their willingness to serve their fellow citizens. In spite of opinions to the contrary, The Peru Gazette believes that public service is one of our society’s highest callings and we believe that the vast majority of elected representatives serve to the best of their ability.

An equally high calling is the responsibility of every registered voter to cast their vote on Tuesday, November 3rd. In a typical non-presidential election year fewer than 50% of eligible voters take the time to vote – a very sad statistic.

Babbie Rural & Farm Learning Museum Presents:

2 consecutive weekends

October 16-17 and 23-24

Candy Harvest – Geared for younger children and will include fun, games and candy! Dress up in your costume and enter the contest!

5:00-7:00 pm                                    $1.00 admission

Soul Harvest – open to all ages, but parental discretion is advised as there will be gore, violence, and plenty of jump scares.  We are not responsible for loss of sleep due to nightmares, fear of the dark, or residual memories of horror imprinted on your mind.

8:00 – 10:00pm                                    $5.00 admission

On Saturday October 17^th, 2105 at 4:30 PM the Peru Democrats will hold a “Meet and Greet” for all candidates who are running in the November election.

Location will be: Murphy’s Restaurant, Rt. 22B, Peru.

Fun and free food for all. Come and meet the candidates. 

Mike Derrick, who is a Peru native and a candidate for the 21st, Congressional District in the 2016 election, will be among the speakers.

Peru Central School District is pleased to announce learning opportunities for residents in its new Community Education Program.

We are excited to offer the following 5 events for our first fall session:

Event                                                                    Date                                      Times

• Basics of Digital Photography                    10/22                                     5:30 – 8:00pm
• Microsoft Word for Beginners                    11/2 & 11/5                         6 – 8 pm
• Essential Oil Make & Take                          10/23/15                              6 – 8:30pm
• 5 Hour Pre-licensing                                    10/24/15                              9 am – 2
• Zumba Dance (starting 11/3)                     Tuesday/Thursdays        6-7 pm and Saturdays 9 – 10am

If you’re interested in hosting or participating in an event, or have an idea for one, we’d love to hear from you! 

For more information, contact Sheila at snugent@perucsd.org or 643-6020 or Lori at lagnew@perucsd.org or 643-6022

Harkness Methodist Church Annual Chicken and Biscuit Dinner

Harkness Church Hall—481 Hallock Hill Rd, Peru

Sunday, October 18^th—serving begins at 4:00 p.m.

Adults, $9; Seniors, $8; Children 6-12, $5; Preschoolers, free

Takeouts available