Gouverneur Rec Center helps local youths ring in the new year

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Recreation Center held a Winter Recess Pajama Party and New Year’s Celebration for local youth on Dec. 30-31.

Civilizations around the world have been celebrating the start of each new year for millennia. Today, most New Year’s festivities begin on December 31 (New Year’s Eve) and continue into the early hours of January 1 (New Year’s Day). Common traditions include attending parties, eating special New Year’s foods, making resolutions for the new year and watching fireworks displays. Many Americans on New Year’s Eve watch the ball drop on Dec. 31 in New York City. The 2025 New Year’s Eve Ball is a geodesic sphere, 12 feet in diameter, and weighs 11,875 pounds. The Ball is covered with a total of 2,688 crystal triangles that vary in size, and range in length from 4 3/4 inches to 5 3/4 inches per side. For Times Square 2025, all 2,688 crystal triangles that adorn the Ball are manufactured by Gillinder Glass, a New York-based manufacturer, and replaced for this New Year’s Eve celebration. For adults, there were New Year’s parties all over the North Country… but events for children were limited.

The Gouverneur Recreation Center, located on Trinity Ave., Gouverneur, was once again the place for area children to be in the days leading up to the holiday. Crafts, coloring, and more fun were the order of the day. Children donned pajamas and enjoyed the festivities. Much gratitude is extended to all those who made the School Winter Recess Pajama Party (Dec. 30) and New Year’s Bash (Dec. 31) events a success.

The Gouverneur Recreation Center will continue its programming for local youth and senior citizens in 2025.

The Gouverneur Recreation Center’s After-School Program (STEAM Studio) focuses on enhancing youths learning in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math. Students in Grades UPK to Grade 1 enjoy sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Students in Grades 2-4 enjoy sessions on Monday and Wednesday. Bus transportation is provided by the Gouverneur Central School District. The program features interactive social play, recreational opportunities exploring the STEAM field, theme days, and guests with fine arts appreciation.

The Before-School Morning Program continues to meet weekdays at the Gouverneur Elementary School. In partnership with the Gouverneur CSD, the enrichment program features early morning wake-up activities, interactive social play, arts and crafts, and breakfast.

Toddler Town meets Tuesday and Thursday mornings at the Gouverneur Recreation Center. The recreational pre-school playgroup program features: interactive socialization and active play, music and art, story and snack.

The Gouverneur Recreation Center’s Senior Citizen Program continues weekly on Friday mornings for a bingo and coffee social. The event features food bingo games with socialization.

For more information about the Gouverneur Recreation Center, call 315-287-0524.

Public invited to Walk With A Doc on Jan. 18 in Gouverneur

by Rachel Hunter

Walk With A Doc in Gouverneur will return to the Gouverneur Middle School on Saturday, January 18, 2025, 10 a.m., at 25 Wilson St., Gouverneur. All North Country residents are invited to join a variety of St. Lawrence County healthcare providers for a free, fun walk. This event is open to all and is for people of all abilities.

There is great anticipation for the first Walk With A Doc in Gouverneur of the 2025 year. Walk With A Doc in Gouverneur is made possible thanks to the Community Health Center of the North Country, St. Lawrence County Public Health Department, and a Bridge To Wellness: St. Lawrence County Health Improvement Plan.

Walk With a Doc is a local chapter of an international 501(c)3 that is inspiring communities through movement and conversation. With an aim to make hope and health accessible to everyone around the world, the doctor-led walking groups are safe, fun and a free place to get in some steps, learn about health, and meet new friends.

Walk With A Doc was started in 2005 by Dr. David Sabgir, a cardiologist in Columbus, Ohio. Frustrated with his inability to affect behavior change in the clinical setting, Dr. Sabgir invited his patients to go for a walk with him in a local park on a spring Saturday morning. To his surprise, over 100 people showed up, energized and ready to move.

Since that first event in 2005, Walk with a Doc has grown as a grassroots effort with a model based on sustainability and simplicity. A doctor gives a brief presentation on a health topic and then leads participants on a walk at their own pace. In 2009, Walk With A Doc became an official 501(c)(3) and added an Executive Director with a focus on building a program that could easily be implemented by interested doctors in other cities around the country. As a result of these efforts, the reach of Walk with a Doc now extends all around the globe with over 500 chapters worldwide, including Walk with a FUTURE Doc chapters led by medical students.

Walking was recognized by the Surgeon General of the United States of America as one of the single most important things we can do for our health. Now, as we usher in 2025, is the time to join the movement in making health and happiness accessible for all.

Walk With A Doc has released a list of 100 reasons why walking is important, and it can be viewed online at walkwithadoc.org. Did you know that walking is one of the best things you can do for your health? Many diseases, conditions, and ailments can be prevented or even healed by participating in regular physical activity. Fortunately, even moderate-intensity aerobic activity such as walking can provide these health benefits. All are welcome to join Walk With A Doc in Gouverneur on Saturday, January 18, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., at the Gouverneur Middle School to learn about the importance of physical activity, and to participate in a free, fun walk right here in the Gouverneur community.

For more information about Walk With A Doc, visit walkwithadoc.org.

Free To The Community: Over 400 Christmas Ham Dinners served at First UMC Gouverneur

by Rachel Hunter

The Free To The Community Christmas Dinner, hosted by the First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur and sponsored by the Friday Lunch Program, was held on Monday, December 23 at 34 Grove St., Gouverneur.

The Free To the Community Christmas Dinner has become an annual tradition for local families. The mouthwatering scent of Christmas ham, green beans, baked potatoes and desserts wafted through the fellowship hall at First UMC Gouverneur as a well-oiled team of volunteers prepared and served the holiday meal. By 4 p.m., dinners were already going out to eager community residents via curbside delivery.

One such North Country resident, who wishes to remain anonymous, told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that their family would not have had the opportunity to eat a hearty meal during the Christmas holiday if it were not for generosity shown at the Free To The Community Christmas Dinner. Other local residents told the Gouverneur Tribune Press said that the food received at the First UMC Gouverneur and local food pantries during the holiday season allowed them to pay their electrical bill, fuel oil, and/or rent. The North Country is reminded that local residents facing hunger are urged to take advantage of the First UMC Gouverneur’s Blessing Box Program, available 24/7 outside the church at 34 Grove St., Gouverneur. Donations for the food program are always gratefully accepted.

The First UMC Gouverneur’s Free To The Community Thanksgiving and Christmas Dinners are always well-received by the North Country community, and much appreciation is extended for their generosity and support of local residents during the holiday season. For more information, call the church office at 315-287-2440.

Town, Village host holiday party

by Rachel Hunter

The Town of Gouverneur and the Village of Gouverneur hosted a holiday celebration for their employees and families at the Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center on Dec. 21.

Did you know? Holiday parties in the U.S. have a long history. Christmas was declared a federal holiday in the United States on June 26, 1870. The tradition of holiday parties began in the 1930s during the Great Depression. The Town of Gouverneur and Village of Gouverneur host their annual holiday party in appreciation of their employees, and in celebration of the continued shared municipal services and working partnership between the Town of Gouverneur and Village of Gouverneur. The annual tradition of the Town/Village Holiday Party was stymied during the years of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, and was canceled in 2023 due to the uptick in local cases. But nothing squelched the Christmas spirit at the 2024 Town/Village Holiday Celebration.

With a sparkle in their eyes, Village/Town employees and their families started arriving at about 5 p.m. for the cocktail hour. Big smiles were on the faces of the town and village employees and their families as they walked into the Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center, noted the ornately decorated rooms and festive atmosphere, and enjoyed the fun and fellowship.

At 6 p.m., all were warmly welcomed by Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr. and Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall. All were invited to eat at the scrumptious holiday buffet. The tables were filled with Christmas ham, prime rib, poultry, pasta and meatballs, alongside many side dishes and desserts. Much appreciation was extended to all those who contributed towards the meal’s success.

At about 7 p.m., the party received a special visitor – straight from the North Pole. Jolly Old St. Nick arrived with “Merry Christmas” greetings for all, and invited all children (and adults) to visit with him at the foot of the Gouverneur Community Center’s large Christmas tree. In only moments, the children ran up to the legendary character and shared their Christmas wishes. They were followed by several adults who carried a high level of the holiday spirit in their hearts. Special holiday treats were distributed by a helper elf, Corryn Canell of Gouverneur.

Santa Claus was welcomed by Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr. and Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall, and was given a standing invitation to attend the Town/Village Holiday Celebration in future years.

Sleigh bells could be heard in the distance as Santa Claus gave his final farewells and headed back to the North Pole to prepare for his Christmas Eve deliveries to North Country children.

Town of Gouverneur Deputy Supervisor Jay Bowhall, Town Clerk Marion Bowhall and their family also distributed “Grinch dust” (colored sugar) to the local families. The annual tradition is known to help keep the magic of Christmas in the air during the holiday season.

Local dignitaries in attendance at the event included the following: Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr., Town of Gouverneur Deputy Supervisor Jay Bowhall, Town of Gouverneur Councilman Curran Wade, Town of Gouverneur Councilman William Infield, Gouverneur Town Clerk Marion Bowhall, Gouverneur Town Bookkeeper Diane Kelley, Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall and Former NYS Assemblywoman Dede Scozzafava, newly elected Gouverneur Town Justice Frederick E. Scozzafava, Village of Gouverneur Trustee Floyd McAdam, Gouverneur Code Enforcement Officer Rick Wood, Gouverneur Dog Control Officer Dan Moyer, Town of Gouverneur Highway Dept. Supt. Michael Wainwright and staff, Gouverneur Recreation Department Director Casey Canell, among others.

There were many wishes for a “Merry Christmas” and a “Happy New Year” alongside “Happy Holidays” at the event’s conclusion. Anticipation is high for the 2025 Town/Village Holiday Celebration. For more information on the Town of Gouverneur, call 315-287-2340. For more information on the Village of Gouverneur, call 315-287-1720.

Gouverneur-area youths pen letters to Santa Claus

by Rachel Hunter

Continuing a century-old tradition, the Gouverneur Tribune Press is once again opening its pages to publish the Christmas wishes from Gouverneur-area children in advance of the Christmas holiday. The messages below are delivered to the North Pole before Santa Claus’ sleigh is packed full of gifts for the good boys and girls around the world. The “One and Only Gouverneur, NY” has hundreds of children eagerly anticipating Christmas morning, with a hopeful glance for a special treat from Jolly Old St. Nick.

The messages were received from the Gouverneur Elementary School are transcribed as follows:

Dear Santa, my name is Isaac. I would like gumball. I have been nice. I will leave milk and cookies out for you. Love, Isaac.

Dear Santa, my name is Bailey. I have been nice. I need stuff to keep me warm. I need a cup to drink out of the cup. I need dolls. I want a stuffed dog. I will give you cookies and milk, Love, Bailey.

Dear Santa, my name is Hudson. I have been nice this year. I want a sled. I need a blanket to keep me warm. I will leave you cookies. Love, Hudson.

Dear Santa, my name is Landon. I have been very good this year. I hope you bring me Power Rangers, a phone/tablet and paper to color. I’ll set out cookies. Love, Landon.

Dear Santa, I love you. I need new pants, shirts, and shoes. I would love a Barbie. I need a book. Love, Raelynn.

Dear Santa, my name is Mia. I have been nice! I want a car from Christmas. I will leave cookies out for you! Love, Mia.

Dear Santa, my name is Caleb. I have been a little naughty and nice. I want a stuffed dinosaur. I need underwear. I will leave cookies and milk. Love, Caleb.

Dear Santa, my name is Maverick. I want toys. I need a hat. I will leave cookies and milk for you. Love, Maverick.

Dear Santa, my name is Zoey. I have been nice this year. I am wishing for makeup. I need mittens. I love you, Santa. Thank you for presents. Love, Zoey.

Dear Santa Claus, I know that you have been working hard. I hope everyone has a good Christmas. My family and me watch you on TV. I have been good this year. I really want to have the Meta Quest XR headset. I helped my mom. I take out the trash for my mom. I helped my dad to cut a tree and load up wood. I hope you have a jolly, merry Christmas. From Grayson.

Dear Santa, I have been good this year. My report card was good. When I accidentally tripped them, I said: “Are you okay?” and helped them up. I hope I did not get too naughty. I hope you have time to read this letter. If I’m not too bad, I want a giraffe plushie. From Braden.

Dear Santa, I have been very good. Santa, I want a dirt bike and phone. I want a North Pole elf. From Dezden.

Dear Santa Claus, I have been very good this year, so I hope you will see my Christmas list. I have helped my family a lot. I would like a McLaren Lamborghini, an iPhone 16, a PS5, a 100-inch TV, and action figure. From, Luca.

Dear Santa, I’ve been very good this year. I helped my mom do the dishes and I cleaned the house. I did something when nobody told me to do that. That’s why I’ve been good. I want a PS5 and a tracker, Nerf guns, and new shoes and a phone. From, Rhett.

Dear Santa, I have been very good this year. My report card was very good. I hope you give me some presents this year. I am so that you got me some presents last year. From, Kaylee.

Dear Santa, I am really good at school. I was nice to my family and my friends. If you don’t mind, please get me a blue squishmallow that is an owl. I hope you have a good Christas. You are nice to get me an elf of the shelf, Noah, last Christmas at my dad’s. Madelyn.

Dear Santa Claus, I have been the best I can be in school. I’ve been good at home. I helped my mom because she was in the hospital. I helped my mom with the dishes and I did all my chores. I’ve been so good this year. I got ten bucks. I know you are busy at the North Pole, but can you please give me Mini Brands 5? I hope you have a good Christmas. From, Benjamin.

Dear Santa Claus, I’ve been very good this year. I hope you take time to read this letter. I always help my mom at home. I really like my family. They are really nice. In the winter, I shovel the driveway for my parents. What I want for Christmas are slime kits. Love, Adalyn.

Dear Santa Claus, I think that I have been good by cleaning my house, and on my report card I got all 3s and 4s. I love Santa Claus because he gives me presents. Can I have a Xbox game and a $50 gift card please? Can I have the PlayStation 4 please? There are the reasons why I like Santa Claus. Love, Logan.

Dear Santa, I have been very good this year because I have been good by helping my mom and my sisters. I have been saying please, thank you, and you’re welcome. So, can I please get some presents? I want a hoverboard that’s blue and a phone, please. Love, Jryden.

Dear Santa, I have been good and my report card was very good. I would love a set of pens, chocolates and new bed sheets. Thank you, Aubrey.

Dear Santa, I have been very, very good because I have helped with decorating the tree, being a good friend, and I helped pick out a color for mommy’s nails. My report card was good. If it is not too much trouble, I want a sleeping mask, cute revel, and a new Barbie house. I hope you have a holly, jolly Christmas. From, Wren.

Dear Santa, in my opinion, I think I have been very good because I stick up for my friends and have been good in school. So, if you are not too busy this year, I want an iPhone, a puppy, kitten, and horse that has hair on the hooves. For the iPhone, I want a stitch and angel phone case. Can Snowflake stay for Christmas and my birthday? From, Hadley.

Dear Santa, I have been very good this year in third grade. I am nice to my friends. I would like to have a good Christmas this year with my family. I would like to go safely driving to my grandma’s house this year. I know you are busy. Thank you for everything. Love, Lanie.

Dear Santa, I have been okay this year. Would you please bring me a bike? Love, Liam.

Dear Santa, I have very good this year. Would you please bring me an Elsa microphone? Love, Celena.

Dear Santa, I have been good. Would you please bring me a Spiderman walkie-talkie? Love, Malex

Dear Santa, I have been good this year. Please bring me the three ruins? Love, Brenner.

Dear Santa, I have been good this year. Would you please bring me press-on nails? Love, Reya.

Dear Santa, I have been okay this year. Would you please bring me a Mickey Mouse walkie-talkie? Love, Brady.

Dear Santa, I have been good this year. Would you please bring me a stuffed animal? Love, Lilliana.

Dear Santa, I have been okay this year. Would you please bring me a Hulk skateboard? Love, Charly.

Dear Santa, I have been good this year. Would you please bring me a remote control Monster truck? Love, Leeum.

Dear Santa, Are you okay? Please a snowflake walkie-talkie? Love Kathryn

Dear Santa, I have been okay this year. Would you please get me a remote control trucks. Love, Easton.

Dear Santa, I have been okay this year. Would you please bring me a watch? Love, Myles.

Dear Santa, I have been okay. Would you please bring me a skateboard. Love, Denver.

Dear Santa, This year I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: clean my room. I would love for you to bring me a drumset, monster truck, and a bird that talks. Love, Stihl Keith.

Dear Santa, This year I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: I shared the kitchen set. I would love for you to bring me a kitchen set like Mrs. LaShomb’s, camera, and swingset. Love. Levi.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: clean my dishes. I would love for you to bring me: coconut, snowglobe. Love, Magdalena.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: I gave Novah a hug when she was sad. I would love for you to bring me: kitchen set. Love, Aubrey.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: I took care of the puppies. I would love for you to bring me makeup and a Barbie doll. Love, Karlie.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: I shared my books. I would love for you to bring me: unicorn, Barbies, baby doll. Love, Novah.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: I helped Daddy cook mac and cheese. I would love for you to bring me: marble run toy, Lego’s, matchbook cars. Love, Luke.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: be good. I would love for you to bring me: monkey and candy gun. Love, Hudson.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: I left cookies. I would love for you to bring me: Lego’s and Spiderman. Love, Grayson.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. I would love for you to bring me: Barbie dolls, Barbie car, and balloon. Love, Ellyanna.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: pick up the toys in my classroom. I would love for you to bring me: princess. Love, Noa.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: playing with my sister. I would love for you to bring me: Peppa Pig toy, Christmas book. Love, Landon.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: helping mommy clean up. I would love for you to bring me Barbie House, Barbie dolls, gabby gabby house, and fluffy blanket. Love, Brinley.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: I helped my sister get out of the Pack N Play. I would love for you to bring me: Nike hat (blue), clothes, and a fire truck. Love, Thomas.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: I shared my books with Mrs. LaShomb. I would love for you to bring me: a baby, markers, and a rubber dog. Love, Lindley.

Dear Santa, This year, I have been very nice. One thing that I did that was extra nice was: feed the animals. I would love for you to bring me: Barbie dolls, Baby dolls, pants (pajama ones). Love, Stella.

Dear Santa, I was okay this year. I helped bring the dog out. I am asking for a new PS5 and a new critters. I will leave you sugar cookies and milk. Love, Gauge.

Dear Santa, I was okay this year. I helped my mom do the dishes. I am asking for a little live pet dog. I will leave you sugar cookies and carrots. Love, Makenna.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped my cousin learn how to count by tens. I am asking for books, and a golden retriever – a toy one is good too. I will leave you sugar cookies and milk. Love, Kenya.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped my mom not yell at me. I am asking for 1000 V-Bucks and a candy cane. I will leave you chocolate chip cookies and milk. From, Jayce.

Dear Santa, I was okay this year. I helped my baby brother. I will leave you cookies and milk. I am asking for toy race cards, pink slime, and dollars. Love, Hailey.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped my brother. He was sent to the hospital. I am asking for platform UGGs (size 3), skincare, iPad, and pink Stanley. I will leave you sugar cookies and milk. I love you, Santa. From Payton.

Dear Santa, I was okay this year. I helped take out the trash. I am asking for Play-Doh and a pair of Nikes, car, and a PlayStation5. I will leave you a cookie with sugar. Love, Xavier.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped my mom do dishes. I am asking for a cat squishmallow… I will leave you chocolate chip cookies and milk. Love, Scarlett

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped my mom and dad clean. I am asking for new WWE toys, plushies, toy cars, Minion fart spray toy gun, monster toy and Mr. Beast toy. I will leave you chocolate chip cookies and milk. Love, Liam.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped my mom do the dishes. I am asking for a Barbie. I will leave you milk and cookies. Love, Jaelynn.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped with the decorations. I am asking for marbles. I will leave you cookies and carrots. Love, Charlotte.

Dear Santa, I was a little naughty and nice. I helped my mom wash dishes. I am asking for a dog this year. I will leave you milk and cookies and carrots for their reindeer. Love, Stacey.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped mom do the dishes. I am asking for a toy car. I will leave you a note on Christmas. Angler

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped my mom do the dishes. I am asking for Flash. I will leave you new glasses. I love you, Noelle.

Dear Santa, I was a little bad this year. I helped mommy find Mrs. Palmer in the cafeteria. I am asking for a real kitten because I want to have a friend. I will leave you milk. Love, Jenna.

Dear Santa, I was a little bad this year. I helped Mom get garage boxes sometimes. I am asking for a bakery, kitten and makeup. I will leave you cookies and milk, and carrots for your deer. Love, Jade.

Dear Santa. I was good this year. I helped Mommy bring in the groceries. I am asking for one million crayons. I will leave you cookies and milk. Love, Kasten.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped mom and dad. I am asking for V-Bucks. I will leave you a present. Love, Dauntae.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped dad mow the lawn. I am asking for a PS5. I will leave you cookies. Love, Garrison.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped mom to decorate the Christmas tree. I am asking for a Barbie doll. I will leave you cookies and milk. Love, Freya.

Dear Santa, I was okay this year. I helped Boppy feed the fish. I am asking for a Squishmallow. I will leave you a present. Love, Margot.

Dear Santa, I was good this year. I helped feed the dog and cat. I am asking for a remote-controlled car in green. I will leave you cookies, carrots and milk. Love, Walker.

Dear Santa, I was good thus year. I helped dad with the lights. I am asking for a Barbie. I will leave you milk. Love, Riley.

Dear Santa, How are you doing? How are the reindeer? How is Snowball doing? Hey, Santa, can I have DS card. I hope your holiday is fun! From, Luca.

Dear Santa, I hope you are having a good time at the North Pole! I wish to get a blanket hoodie! I also wish for a puppy, please! My dog needs a friend. I also want a hamster, pretty please. I also want a Christmas without me and my sister arguing! From, Brinley.

Dear Santa, how are you? For Christmas, I would like a Lego battlefield. I would like a Robo DCS Pikachu. I would also like little Pokemon mini figures. How are your elves? From Michael.

Dear Santa, Are you going to have a good day today? I hope you do! This is my wishlist: Android phone, a bike, and a guinea pig. Those are my wishes. Make sure to drop it at the right house. I hope you have a wonderful day. From, Aydin.

Dear Santa Claus, I hope you’re doing okay at the North Pole this year. This year, for Christmas, I want Lego’s and right now in December, an elf for the next year and Pokemon cards. If you’re too busy, it’s okay if I don’t get any presents and it is okay if I get coal for Christmas. From, Jackson. Have a Happy New Year!

Dear Santa, how are you doing? I can’t wait for Christmas! Are you okay? Can I get a kitten, please? Can I get a guinea pig, please? Can I get an elf for the year, please? Have a happy New Year! From, Joey.

Dear Santa, How is the North Pole? I bet you love it there. Here is my Christmas list: Can I have a bike, please? A hoodie blanket, please. Can I also have some leggings, please? I hope you have a jolly Christmas. I hope the elves are working hard. From, Ava.

Dear Santa, I hope you have a great Christmas. I love adding joy to Christmas. Christmas is my favorite holiday. Santa, I hope you have a great Christmas Day. I hope the elves are working hard. I love getting together on Christmas with my family. Christmas is a happy holiday. Christmas is a joyful day. From, Evelyn.

Dear Santa, How are you doing this year? For Christmas, I want slime, please. I also want more Lego’s. How do you go to every home in the world in one night?! Have a jolly Christmas. From, Mia.

Dear Santa, I wish for a new bike. I wish for a new phone. I wish for new lipstick. I wish for new lights…

Dear Santa, I’m wondering what it is like in the North Pole. Do the elves look like my elf, Rosie, but moving? Do you use the toy machines or do the elves make them by hand, or do you buy them? And how do you reward the elves? Those are some questions, I hope you have a merry Christmas. From, Leighton.

Dear Santa, How are you doing? Here is my wish list: Butter and Cloud Peachie Babies Slime (Purple), a hamster, an Xbox, and hoodie blanket. Hope you have a jolly holiday season. From, Cora.

Dear Santa, I wish for some ameye gips please. I also want some Air Jordans please in blue. Also I a hoodie blanket. Also I want a big, big water bottle please. Also tell Rudolph I said “hi.” From, Jackstin.

Dear Santa, my name is Kiahi. I am 5 years old. This year I have been nice. There are three things I am wishing for: skateboard, cat and dog (stuffed one). I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From Kiahi.

Dear Santa, my name is Jade. I am 6 years old. This year I have been nice. These are three things I am wishing for: Barbie, Skateboard, toy car that I can ride in. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Jade.

Dear Santa, my name is Lula. I am 5 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are three things I am wishing for: skateboard, hoverboard, and a real cat. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Lula.

Dear Santa, my name is Izzie. I am 6 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are three things, I am wishing for: tiny Christmas tree, camera, and kitten. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Izzie.

Dear Santa, my name is Brayden. I am 5 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are three things I am wishing for: boots, RC car, and hoverboard. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Brayden.

Dear Santa, my name is Raiden. I am 5 years old. I have been nice. These are three things I am wishing for: race car, big trucks, and fire truck. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Raiden.

Dear Santa, my name is Autumn. I am 6 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are three things I am wishing for: camera, cat, and mystery gift. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. Love, Autumn.

Dear Santa, my name is Everly. I am 5 years old. Thus year, I have been nice. These are three things I am wishing for: bells, markers, and Hot Wheels race track. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Everly.

Dear Santa, my name is Declan. I am 6 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are three things I am wishing for: hoverboard, Pokemon stuffies, toy car. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Declan.

Dear Santa, my name is August. I am 6 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are three things I am wishing for: Spiderman, necklace for Mom, and gumball machine. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, August.

Dear Santa, my name is Mikey. I am 5 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are things I am wishing for: Army guy, Siren Head, and castle. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Mikey.

Dear Santa, my name is Aurora. I am 5 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are three things I am wishing for: axolotl, Moana sword, and shark race track. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Aurora.

Dear Santa, my name is Harper. I am 5 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are things I am wishing for: video game controller, puppy, and cow. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Harper.

Dear Santa, my name is Azariah. I am 6 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are three things I am wishing for: doll, heart ring, Christmas tree and presents. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Azariah.

Dear Santa, my name is Colby. I am 6 years old. This year, I have been nice. I am wishing for Power Rangers. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Colby.

Dear Santa, my name is Liam. I am 6 years old. This year, I have been nice. These are things I am wishing for: Spiderman, spider-web shooter, and Spiderman mask. I will set out cookies and milk for you on Christmas Eve. From, Liam.

This Is Christmas: Gouverneur Community Chorus performs cantata

by Rachel Hunter

The triumphant sounds of the holiday season thrilled the North Country community at the Gouverneur Community Chorus Christmas Concert on Sunday, December 15 at the First Presbyterian Church of Gouverneur.

A word of welcome was given by Gouverneur Community Chorus Conductor Paul Buell of Gouverneur, and an opening prayer of blessing was given by the Rev. Carrie Demers of the First Presbyterian Church of Gouverneur.

The concert opened with performances from the North Country Brass, which has had several performances in Gouverneur over the years. Mr. Buell introduced the group and said the following: “The North Country Brass provides some really strong brass music,” Mr. Buell said. “Brass instruments to me are at the heart of really good Christmas music because they are up and cheerful, and very bright. There’s no greater season in the world than the Christmas season.” Among the selections performed were “Silent Night” and “O Come, All Ye Faithful.” Thunderous applause sounded in appreciation of the special musical selections.

All then were treated to a powerful acapella vocal performance of “Sweet Little Jesus Child” from Kathleen Buell of Gouverneur. Thunderous applause sounded in appreciation of the classic holiday selection.

The Riverside Brass Quartet featured Paul Buell of Gouverneur (trumpet), Andrew Crecco (trombone), Glenn Roberts (trumpet), and Peter Popiel (tuba). The quartet performed “Rondeau” by Mouret, “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” by Runyan, “And The Glory of the Lord” from Handel’s Messiah, “Three Christmas Chorales” by Sheidt, and “Chorale and Fugue” by Bach. Thunderous applause sounded in appreciation of the classical, hymn and carol selections.

The Gouverneur Community Chorus then performed the cantata, “This Is Christmas,” by Mary McDonald. The Gouverneur Community Chorus formed about eight weeks ago, and has been practicing weekly for the auspicious occasion. The Gouverneur Community Chorus is conducted by Paul Buell of Gouverneur, and accompanied by Kathleen Buell of Gouverneur (organist) and Beth Johnson of Gouverneur (pianist). The vocalists included: Corey Brock, Karen Brungard, Jamie D’Addario, Carrie Demers, Brandon Griffin, Paige McCrea, Jackson Ritchie, Lori Ritchie, Rachel Schroeder, Don Schuessler, Glenda Schuessler, Dede Scozzafava, Marla Shampine, Susie Spilman, and Gail Thomas.  In this cantata, the story of Christmas was told through familiar carols, inspired original melodies, and thoughtful narration. The cantata was expertly narrated by Carol Amberg of Gouverneur. The cantata included nine musical selections: “This Is Christmas Love,” “Rejoice! Emannuel,” “He Shall Be Called” (Featuring Soloists Dede Scozzafava, Rachel Schroeder, Jamie D’Addario, and Corey Brock), “Glory Shone Around,” “He Is Born, The Holy Child,” “Sleep In Peace Tonight,” “This Is The Child, This Is The King,” “Repeat The Sounding Joy,” and “This Is Christmas Love (Reprise).” Thunderous applause sounded in appreciation of the Gouverneur Community Chorus’ talented cantata performance.

“What a great job they did,” Mr. Buell said. “I am so proud of what they were able to accomplish in only about eight weeks. They have put together a remarkably good show. For a choir of this size, I am terribly proud of them.”

The North Country also enjoyed Kathleen Buell’s stirring vocal solo of Schubert’s “Ave Maria.” Mrs. Buell also performed an organ solo of “Come, Savior of the Gentiles” by Johann Pachelbel.

A carol sing was enjoyed by all, included holiday favorites such as: “The First Noel,” “Joy To The World,” among others.

“Ladies and gentlemen, on behalf of the choir and the instrumentalists in the North Country Brass and the Riverside Brass Quartet, I’d like to thank you all for your generous applause,” Mr. Buell said. “It is a great pleasure to present this Christmas program to you each year. This is a labor of love for all of these individuals. They spend weekend after weekend putting this together, and have done so now for many, many years…”

The concert concluded with the much-loved carol, “Silent Night.” The song was first performed at a Christmas Eve service over 200 years ago, in 1818 in the village of Salzburg, Austria. The carol, however, began it life as a poem, written by Father Joseph Mohr.

A standing ovation was given for the Gouverneur Community Chorus, the North Country Brass and the Riverside Brass Quartet at the conclusion of the concert. Wishes for a “Merry Christmas” were shared as the North Country enjoyed a brief time of fellowship. Much appreciation was extended to all those who made the event possible. Mr. Buell encouraged anyone interested to join the 2025 Gouverneur Community Chorus. Student-vocalists from local school districts are invited to participate. For more information, contact the First Presbyterian Church of Gouverneur at 315-287-0560.

Free To The Community Christmas Dinner is Dec. 23

by Rachel Hunter

The Free To The Community Christmas Dinner, hosted by the First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur and sponsored by the Friday Senior Lunch Program, will be held on Monday, December 23, serving starts at 4 p.m.

Organizers told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that the meal will include: ham, baked potato, and all the trimmings.

The dinner will be served from the First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur, located at 34 Grove St., Gouverneur. All meals will be available via drive-thru only. The one-way traffic will enter by Tangles Salon & Day Spa in Gouverneur and exit by Key Bank. Call the church office at 315-287-2440 to make a reservation no later than 11 a.m. on Dec. 20.

Chamber kicks off holiday season with festive celebration

by Rachel Hunter

Gouverneurians came together on Saturday, December 7 in the Gouverneur Village Park to celebrate the start of the 2024 holiday season.

The Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade and festivities in the Gouverneur Village Park on Saturday, December 7. The event featured fun for the whole family with the annual Christmas parade, visits with Santa Claus, a mechanical reindeer ride, and refreshments. It was sponsored by Kinney Drugs, Lawrence Manor, Bonaparte Pharmacy, Community Health Center of the North Country, and St. Lawrence Health’s Gouverneur Hospital. The event highlighted the newly renovated Gouverneur Village Park, and Santa Claus visits were held in the new Gouverneur Village Park Gazebo.

The fun started at 2 p.m. with the opportunity to ride the mechanical reindeer, and enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides (thanks to Bango Valley Percherons in Richville) around the Gouverneur Savings and Loan Association parking lot. Many also enjoyed the opportunity to warm up in the fellowship hall of the First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur, enjoying hot cocoa and Christmas cookies. Over 800 cookies were prepared in advance of the event by the culinary arts students at Southwest Tech (BOCES) in Fowler and local bakers (Sweet Creations by Lindsey, Rock Island Sweet Treats, Rustic Rise Sourdough & Supplies, Sweet Treats Up The Street, and Shay Can Bake). North Country residents also enjoyed coloring alongside photo opportunities and visits from Mrs. Claus and a North Pole elf.

North Country families were awestruck by how the Village of Gouverneur Department of Public Works had decked out the Gouverneur Village Park in readiness for the holiday season. The park once again featured the lit snowflakes and arch décor that was purchased following the Chamber’s 2021 Light Up Our Village fundraising campaign. Over $20,000 was raised, thanks to nearly 50 local businesses and community members. The community was also impressed with all the holiday lights installed in the Gouverneur Village Park Gazebo. Others were thrilled to see the traditional wooden holiday decorations (Santa, nativity, carolers, and more) installed for the community’s enjoyment. Local businesses were also open on Saturday night, and the Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce encouraged all to “shop local” this holiday season and beyond. 

By 5 p.m. on Dec. 7, the North Country families had lined the sidewalks to enjoy the annual Christmas parade. Traffic control was handled throughout the event by local law enforcement, led by the Village of Gouverneur Police Department.

The parade was announced by Gouverneur Chamber Director Raymond Babowicz, assisted by Executive Director Donna Besaw and Director Donna Lawrence. They announced the parade from the Village’s temporary stage installed by the village gazebo.

The lead car in the 2024 Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade was the Village of Gouverneur Police Department apparatus, driven by Gouverneur Police Department Chief of Police Darren Fairbanks. Other law enforcement in the parade included the St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office and the New York State Police.

Local dignitaries in the parade included Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall, Village of Gouverneur Deputy Mayor Charles Newvine, Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr., and Town of Gouverneur Councilman Curran Wade.

The festively decorated Town of Gouverneur Highway Department plow truck, driven by Larry Allen and passenger Lorrine Allen, pulled the float featuring the Gouverneur Wildcat Football and Girls Basketball Program. The decorated Village of Gouverneur DPW truck was driven by Village of Gouverneur DPW Deputy Supt. Chris Fitzgerald with passenger Hadley Fitzgerald.

The Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce awarded its $50 prize to the Wild Wood Wrangler 4-H Club in appreciation of their equestrian display.

The local businesses participating included Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce’s Marble Sponsor Kinney Drugs, which was founded in Gouverneur in 1903. Other local businesses in the parade included the following: Newvine’s NAPA Auto Parts in Gouverneur, New York Pizzeria, McDonalds of Gouverneur, Black Lake Wedding & Party Rentals, Bango Valley Percherons, and PIXELIT with holiday greetings from Northern Credit Union. Local clubs and organizations participating included: Gouverneur Farmers Market, North Country Prenatal/Perinatal Council (NCPPC)’s Gouverneur Family Resource Center, and the Tri-County Jeep Club.

The Gouverneur Fire Department brought three apparatuses. Engine 17 was driven by Thomas Haynes and Amber Haynes. ETA-101 was driven by Dale Johnson and Sheila Johnson. The Gouverneur Fire Department was tasked by the North Pole to safely bring Santa to the park so he could meet with all the local children – and many of the youngest set squealed in excitement as they spotted Santa Claus waving atop GFD’s Rescue 4, driven by Dorwin Gore and Steve Bos. Other fire departments participating included: Richville Volunteer Fire Department (Michael Thomas, Keirsten Thomas, Corie Farr and Tammy Jenkins), and Oxbow Volunteer Fire Department’s Fightin’ 33 (driven by Chief James Maloy). The Gouverneur Rescue Squad also had a festively decorated ambulance, driven in the parade by Sam Berry.

Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and a North Pole elf were then directed toward the newly renovated Gouverneur Village Park Gazebo to greet and visit with the local children. Santa’s throne was positioned in front of an ornately decorated Christmas tree, donated by the Gouverneur Lions Club, for the event. A long line formed, and eager youngsters ran into Santa’s awaiting arms. The youths told Santa Claus their Christmas wishes and were given special gifts from Santa Claus’ helpers.

Much gratitude is extended to all those who contributed any type of service to the event’s success. For more information on the Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce, visit www.gouverneurchamber.net.

Gouverneur students will activate HOPE with Sweethearts & Heroes

An amazing duo of superheroes without capes, including a Purple Heart Recipient who has released a children’s book, will be in Gouverneur to teach students and educators how to activate compassion, empathy and HOPE in their classrooms — and beyond.

Sweethearts & Heroes will be in the Gouverneur Central School District (CSD) on Tuesday, Dec. 10 and Wednesday, Dec. 11. Sweethearts & Heroes aims to prevent hopelessness, bullying and suicide by providing dynamic, inspiring content that centers on the human interaction skills necessary for schools and other organizations to change all aspects of their culture — skills such as empathy, compassion and teamwork.

Sweethearts & Heroes offers a profound, engaging signature presentation that calls for HOPE (Hold On, Possibilities Exist), Empathy and Action; Circle, which is built on the ancient ritual of communicating in a circle to build compassion and empathy; and the BRAVE Youth Leadership Program, which trains older students in bully drills that they, in turn, teach to students in lower grades, thus creating a sustainable, student-directed initiative that can change a school’s culture.

During this school year, Sweethearts & Heroes started offering Train the Trainer, which teaches current educators how to weave their own Circle trainings for future hires; and STEP (the Student Teacher Empathy Program), which teaches high school students how to present Sweethearts & Heroes’ signature assemblies for students in grades K-2 and 3-5.

Sweethearts & Heroes’ central team of traveling presenters includes: Tom Murphy, Director and Founder, of St. Albans, VT; Ret. U.S. Army Sgt. Rick Yarosh, a HOPE expert, Purple Heart recipient and motivational speaker from New York who was burned severely while serving in Iraq; and Pat Fish, BRAVE Program Director & Circle Specialist, also of New York.

“Sweethearts & Heroes doesn’t focus on creating another SEL (social-emotional learning) or Human Skills curriculum,” Murphy said. “Instead, we implement practices and habits that genuinely empower and nurture students’ growth. When people genuinely connect on a daily basis, they naturally develop the capacity for more meaningful interactions and thoughtful responses. Prioritizing human skills shouldn’t require extra preparation or a separate curriculum — it should be our primary focus. After all, before we can effectively teach academic subjects, we must first be teachers of humanity.”

For more than 16 years, Sweethearts & Heroes has presented what Murphy calls “‘the ‘stop, drop and roll’ of bullying” to more than 2.5 million students in school districts from New England to Hawaii and north into Canada. Sweethearts & Heroes also tailors its presentations and workshops for businesses, non-profits and civic groups. Murphy said, “We go where we’re needed. That’s what heroes do.”

During Veterans Day week, Yarosh released A Bridge Named Amos, the inspiring, true story of his hero and service dog, Amos, who died in October, just before the book went to press. Born on Christmas, Amos was a lovable, black Lab who traveled with Yarosh over thousands of miles to hundreds of schools with Sweethearts & Heroes. Together, they taught children and adults how to overcome challenges, celebrate differences and embrace empathy. A Bridge Named Amos is told from Amos’ warm perspective, and it comes with a free downloadable workbook. OESJ Central School District (NY) Art Teacher Kevin Cannon illustrated the book.

Sweethearts & Heroes’ other books include Boredom School: For Those Bored in School, a collection of captivating, humorous and thought-provoking poems by Pat Fish; and 13 Pillows For Affective Teachers, a novel by Tom Murphy and Brian McKeon, of New York, that covers the themes of HOPE, Empathy and Action in the Sweethearts & Heroes curriculum.

In September, during National Suicide Prevention Month, about 140 students from seven Upstate New York schools attended Sweethearts & Heroes’ first three-day — and phone-free — Youth Leadership Summit with Spartan Race at Killington Resort in Vermont.

Sweethearts & Heroes has also created The HOPE Classroom, a digital subscription service designed for various grade levels and different school sizes. This value-packed offering can allow Sweethearts & Heroes to be in every school in the U.S. For more on Sweethearts & Heroes, find them here on social media.

Giving Thanks: Volunteers serve up 400 turkey dinners

by Rachel Hunter 

A total of 400 turkey dinner meals were served at the Free To The Community Thanksgiving Day Dinner on Nov. 28 at First UMC Gouverneur.

The free community-wide thanksgiving dinner has been an annual tradition for many local families for over 25 years, ever since the Ice Storm of 1998. The dinner was hosted by the First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur and sponsored by the Friday Senior Luncheon Program. The 2024 Thanksgiving Day Dinner, offered free to the Gouverneur community, included the traditional meal of turkey and all the fixings. The meals were served up and delivered curbside by a well-oiled team of volunteers. 

Organizer Judy Bush of Gouverneur said it was a blessing to be able to feed so many North Country residents on the holiday. Much appreciation is extended to all those who contributed any type of service toward the event’s success, and to the volunteers who helped at every step of the meal preparation, serving and the curbside delivery process.

The delectable Thanksgiving Dinner has been the talk of the town, and many North Country residents are looking forward to upcoming meals at First UMC Gouverneur. For more info or to donate to the First UMC Gouverneur’s Friday Senior Luncheon Program or the Blessing Box Program, call the church office at 315-287-2440.

Gouverneur Lions roar into the holiday season with Christmas Tree fundraiser

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Lions Club is holding its Annual Christmas Tree Fundraiser, starting Small Business Saturday (November 30). The sale is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Nov. 30-Dec. 1 and Dec.7-8 at Emerald Greens, 1485 US-11, Gouverneur. As in past years, the Gouverneur Lions Club will be offering free delivery. Pre-orders are available, call 315-771-1433. The Gouverneur Lions Club is a visible force for good, and all proceeds will benefit the local community.

Did you know? The Gouverneur Lions Club for over 85 years has worked to improve health and well-being, strengthen local communities. The club has a rich history of community service and helping to enrich the lives of local residents. King Lion Betsy Cummings, president of the Gouverneur Lions Club, has told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that the club’s main focus is on efforts to support the blind and visually impaired. The club also supports efforts to improve the environment, aid during natural disasters, and fight pediatric cancer and diabetes.

Did you know? The Gouverneur Lions Club was organized on October 31, 1935. It was the first group with international affiliations to be formed here. In fact, it was one of the first Lions Clubs that were established north of the rail line from Syracuse to Albany. On August 12, 1935, the first northern club was started at Tupper Lake. Canton and Massena followed, on October 21, 1935. Ten days later, the Gouverneur Lions Club completed its formation. Herbert A. Dye of Niagara Falls was the district governor in 1935, and his territory was the entire state of New York, including Long Island. One visit to each club was required during his one-year term. To ensure better roads for the district governor’s long trip from Niagara Falls, the formal charter presentation was postponed until May 15, 1936. Harold Murphy had been elected the first president at the organization meeting in October. Vice-presidents were the late Glen W. Severance, the late Roy D. Gibbs and Walter Clinch. Robert G. Cottrell was secretary-treasurer. The first club activity, back in 1935, was a school banquet for the school football team which played in the championship but didn’t win it. The Lions invitation was issued prior to that important game. The invitation stated that, “win, lose, or tie, we back you and want you as our guests.” Gold footballs were presented to each varsity player. Since Helen Keller challenged Lions to become “Knights of the Blind” in 1925, the Lions Club International has improved eye health and eye care for hundreds of millions of people around the world. Today, 80 percent of vision impairments are preventable or curable, so the service is more important than ever before. Lions and Leos screen vision, educate communities, build clinics and support the blind and visually impaired through assistive technology and vocational training programs. The Gouverneur Lions Club is just one of the 49,000 clubs who bring hands and hearts to the communities they serve in nearly every country on earth.

The Gouverneur Lions Club is excited to once again enrich the lives of the community with the 2024 Christmas Tree fundraiser. The fragrant scent of the evergreen trees triggers holiday memories past and present. Don’t miss the opportunity to “shop local, support local” and get your hands on a Christmas tree… or more! Call 315-771-1433 for more information.

The Gouverneur Lions Club is always accepting new members. For more information, call 315-771-1310.

78 Years of Making The Community Bloom: Village presents appreciation plaque to Gouverneur Garden Club

by Rachel Hunter

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees at its Nov. 19 meeting presented an appreciation plaque to the Gouverneur Garden Club for their decades-long work of “making the community bloom.” The honor was bestowed to Gouverneur Garden Club President Miki Hopper by Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall, joined by Deputy Mayor Charles Newvine, Trustees Floyd McAdam, Troy Besaw, and Shelly Simons-Washburn. Thunderous applause sounded as the plaque was presented to the Gouverneur Garden Club.

Did you know? The Gouverneur Garden Club has been dedicated to civic improvement for over 78 years. On April 10, 1946, the Outlook Club invited representatives of different clubs to meet with them at the home of Louise Anderson to discuss the organization of a Garden Club. Stella Rogers of Somerville and a Mrs. Milligan of Lowville were guest speakers. The first meeting of the Gouverneur Garden Club was held at the home of Eva Hodge on May 22, 1946 with 15 members present. Civic improvement has always been the main interest of this club, with a proven record over the course of its history.

The Gouverneur Garden Club’s active membership total is now at over 30 persons strong and has experienced much growth over the last several years. The 2024 club officers are as follows: President Miki Hopper, Vice President Marylou Trop, Recording Secretary Christine Betrus, Corresponding Secretary Carol Venton, and Treasurer Ruth McClure. The Gouverneur Garden Club’s mission is “to share knowledge and experience, promote interest in all varieties of gardening, provide community beautification and environmental conservation, and instill civic pride.”

The Gouverneur Garden Club was busy as bees in 2024 with their beautification work and more. It all started on March 7 with an organizational meeting at the Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center. The club met in April and May with educational presentations on hydroponic gardening (presented by Chris Gates of Gouverneur) and “My Favorite Tools” (presented by Club Member Lea Dickson).

On May 24, the Gouverneur Garden Club held its Spring Plant Sale fundraiser, with generous support from the North Country community. It was held in the Gouverneur Village Park, near the fountain due to the Village Park Improvement Project. This fundraising event has been a staple in the Gouverneur community since at least the early 1980s. Hundreds of plants (ground covers, houseplants, perennials) were available for sale. The funds raised went to help the club beautify the Gouverneur community.

In keeping with the Gouverneur Garden Club’s motto “Making Our Community Bloom,” committee members maintain gardens throughout the Gouverneur community during the spring, summer and autumn months. The Gouverneur Garden Club worked hard to beautify the local gardens. This includes the following: Rock Island Planters (Sponsored by the Gouverneur Garden Club), Aubuchon Hardware Planter (Chairperson Miki Hopper), Riverview and Grove St. Cemeteries (Chairperson Connie Stowell, Ruth McClure, Kathy Rust, Bonnie Porter, Brenda Willard, Roxy Boyd), Beckwith Street Garden (Chairperson Connie Stowell, Ruth McClure, Kathy Rust, Roxy Boyd, Brenda Willard, Bonnie Porter), Gouverneur Museum Planters (Lea Dickson), Village Park, Gazebo, Barrels, Clock Stand (Chairperson Shelly Bush, Linda Betts, Lea Dickson, Cande Houghton, Laurie Scott, Karen Green, Donna Lawrence, Roberta O'Neill), Harry Mills Park (Chairperson Connie Stowell, Ruth McClure, Kathy Rust, Brenda Willard, Roxy Boyd, Bonnie Porter), Tractor Supply Planters​ (Chairperson Carol Venton and Laurie Scott), Sandbox Garden And Park Street (Chairperson Miki Hopper, Co-Chairperson Linda Hull, Irene Gardner, Joan Mason, Lynn Nicholl, Marylou Trop, Carol Venton, Sharon Villeneuve), Community Center (Chairperson Christine Betrus, Glenda Bickford, Julie Henry, Phyllis Myers, Roxy Tyler). The Gouverneur Garden Club in 2024 painted paving stones, and placed them as signs by the local gardens. Much appreciation is extended to these Gouverneur Garden Club members for their beautification efforts.

This spring, faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that the Gouverneur Garden Club received a donation of inmate labor from the Gouverneur Correctional Facility to grow 110 geraniums, 70 dusty millers, 40 zinnias. All materials were provided by the Gouverneur Garden Club, and the plants were added to the local gardens by the Gouverneur Garden Club members. Much gratitude was extended to the Gouverneur Correctional Facility for their continued support.

The Gouverneur Garden Club took an educational field trip in June to the Willow Tree Nursery in Potsdam, and enjoyed a picnic lunch at Riverview Park in July. The August meeting was held at the 2024 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair. The club once again had its booth under the grandstand, and had several submissions in the “Creative Containers” educational exhibit. In September, the Gouverneur Garden Club had a mum and plant sale and basket raffle at the 2024 Gouverneur Pumpkin Festival, presented by the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Association and the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce. In November, the Gouverneur Garden Club received a presentation on making ground pine wreaths by Club Member Cande Houghton.

Last Friday, November 22, the Gouverneur Garden Club assisted the Gouverneur Hospital by decorating its evergreen wreaths in advance of the holiday season.

The Gouverneur Garden Club has a Christmas luncheon planned on December 5, and will have a program planning session on January 3. The Gouverneur Garden Club continues to seek new members to help keep up the tradition of beautifying the Gouverneur area. Those interested in flora are always welcome at Gouverneur Garden Club meetings. The Gouverneur Garden Club is inclusive of all genders, and anyone interested in joining is encouraged to contact any Gouverneur Garden Club member. Meetings are regularly announced in the community calendar section of the Gouverneur Tribune Press. For more information on the Gouverneur Garden Club, visit www.GouverneurGardenClub.com or visit their page on Facebook.

Reminder: RSVP for Free Thanksgiving Dinner on Nov. 28

A free community-wide Thanksgiving Dinner will be held on Thanksgiving Day (Thursday, November 28) at the First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur, 34 Grove St., Gouverneur. Serving starts at 11:30 a.m. There is no cost for the Thanksgiving Dinner, featuring turkey with all the trimmings. The meal is sponsored by the Friday Senior Lunch Program, and is available via take-out only. Reservations are required. Call the church office at 315-287-2440 by Nov. 26.

GMS Drama Club presents Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka Jr.

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Middle School Drama Club presented Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka, Jr. on the Gouverneur High School Auditorium stage on Friday, November 15 and Saturday, November 16.

The GMS Drama Club’s production of “Willy Wonka, Jr.” was based on the timeless classic, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” by Roald Dahl with words and music by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley. It was presented through a special arrangement with Music Theatre International (New York, NY). The production was directed by GMS Social Studies Teacher and GMS Drama Club Advisor Brandon Griffin. Assistant Directors were Michele Brenno, Jaime Hughes, and Catie Yablonski.

GMS Drama Club’s production of Willy Wonka Jr. proved to be  a scrumdidilyumptious musical that delighted everyone's sweet tooth. The score and scenes included favorite musical numbers, such as “Pure Imagination,” “The Candy Man,” “(I’ve Got A) Golden Ticket),” “Oompa-Loompa,” “There’s No Knowing,” “I Want It Now!” and more. As well, it offered some new favorites, including: “Think Positive,” “Cheer Up, Charlie,” “I Eat More,” among others. Throughout the production, the colorful set and on- and off-stage action drew the audience into the world of Willy Wonka and kept the crowd on the edge of their seats for the entire performance.

The GMS Drama Club featured its 70-plus student-actors in the production this past weekend with three shows to delight the local audiences. The cast included the following: Willy Wonka (Emma Riutta), Candy Man (Robert Millemon), Oompa-Loompa 1 (Isla Countryman), Oompa-Loompa 2 (Alexander Mendez-Sands), Oompa Loompa 3 (Aubree Spicer), Oompa Loompa 4 (Genevieve Plowman), Oompa Loompa 5 (Rylie Hitchman), Charlie Bucket (Rowan Burt), Grandpa Joe (Ruby Griffith), Grandma Georgina (Aubrianna Mason), Grandma Josephine (Mya Seymour), Grandpa George (Luke Bartholomew), Mr. Bucket (Hendrix McSweeney), Mrs. Bucket (Kailey Lewis), Matilda (Aria Austin), James (Carter D’Agostino), Phineous Trout (Elizabeth Bason), Augustus Gloop (Carter McGill), Mrs. Gloop (Sophie Gemmill), Veruca Salt (Brooklyn Anderson), Mrs. Salt (Karsyn Cudhea), Violet Beauregarde (Paisley Casey), Mrs. Beauregarde (Raeleigh McIntosh), Ms. Teavee (Izabella Vann), and Mike Teavee (Gunner Hewitt). The other Oompa-Loompas included: Allison Bressette, Lauren Terpstra, Harper Walters, Aria Austin, Kameran Bice, Adrian Cimeneri, Aryona Petrie, Ellie Sweeney, Karissa Hamilton, Evelynn Riutta, Easton Smith, Keelee Bice, Aspen Chase, Megan Hays, Laila Hoffman, Lainey McDougall, Daphne Bearden, Abigail Brown, Carter D’Agostino, Scarlet DeBault, River Ervin, Lucy Hoffman, Annesa Koerick, Mya Larsen, Alexis McIntyre, Bria Merkley, Dakota Morrison, Mali Pawananon, Maddie Simmons, Isabel Storie, Makenna Turner, Sarie Whiteford, Leah Weems, and London Wood. The Squirrels included: Leighton Anderson, Ridge Burt, Rowan Chase, and Masyn Cudhea. The crew included: Curtis Terpstra, Alexa Merkley, Jude Nichols, Laila Bearden, Madison Nichols, Kiara Callahan, Jenson Pistocco, Katelynn Losey, Evelynn Vann, Brycen Parshley, Jeiza Rivera-Rodriguez. Thunderous applause sounded at the final bows for the Gouverneur Middle School and St. James School students included in the production.

The GMS production of Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka Jr. was dedicated in memory of Mr. Griffin’s grandmother, the late Marilyn Griffin (1943-2022), a great supporter of the arts who loved to watch her grandchildren perform in the local productions at the Gouverneur Central School District and beyond.

The Gouverneur Middle School Drama Club extended a word of gratitude to all those who contributed any type of service toward the production’s success, and for the community’s support. With the funds raised, the Gouverneur Middle School Drama Club will be able to bring its members to see Disney’s “The Lion King” at the Landmark Theatre in Syracuse this December. A special word of appreciation was extended to the Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education, Gouverneur CSD Superintendent of Schools Jackie Kelly, GHS Principal Nicole Donaldson, GMS Principal Michael Hammond and Assistant Principal Rachel Curry, GHS secretarial staff and custodial staff, and GMS secretarial staff. A special word of gratitude went out to Casey Canell, Stacy Canell, and Corryn Canell for the box office assistance, alongside volunteers Heather Rose and Justin Terpstra, among others.

The North Country community is still abuzz about the spectacular production, and is looking forward to attending the next GMS Drama Club production. For more information on the Gouverneur Central School District, visit www.gcsk12.org.

Save The Date: Chamber’s Christmas Parade is Dec. 7

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce will hold its Annual Christmas Parade and Festivities on Saturday, December 7, in downtown Gouverneur. The event is sponsored by the Chamber’s Marble Member Kinney Drugs, Gold Members Bonaparte Pharmacy, Community Health Center of the North Country, Gouverneur Hospital and Lawrence Manor.

The fun starts in the Gouverneur Village Park at 2 p.m., with free mechanical reindeer rides (2-5 p.m.) and horse-drawn wagon rides (2-4:30 p.m.). There will be free hot cocoa and cookies available in the basement of the First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur (34 Grove St.), and a children’s coloring contest will be on site.

The parade will line-up, 4 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., near Green Funeral Home. All parade participants are required to sign-in upon arrival. The parade will start at 5 p.m. There will be a $50 prize for the best parade float. All businesses, churches, clubs and organizations, schools, and families are welcome to participate. The Chamber encourages all to showcase their holiday spirit with creative lighting during the parade.

Santa Claus will once again be the special guest of the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce for the holiday celebration Santa will greet the children and give them a gift, immediately after parade, under the new village gazebo.

Mark your calendar for Saturday, December 7, and make plans to join this memorable holiday celebration in Gouverneur. For more information on the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce, visit www.gouverneurchamber.net.

Veterans Day observed in Gouverneur

by Rachel Hunter

The 2024 Gouverneur Veterans Day Observance was held on Monday, November 11, at 11 a.m., at the Gouverneur Memorial Arch in the Gouverneur Village Park. The annual event is made possible through the efforts of the Silas Wainwright VFW Post 6338 in Gouverneur and the James Maloy American Legion Post 65. This year’s observance drew the largest crowd reported in recent years.

A word of welcome was given by Master of Ceremonies, Robert Sargent, Senior Vice Commander of VFW Post 6338. The invocation was given by American Legion Post 65 Commander Jason Carvel. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by VFW Post 6338 Commander Roland Roderick and American Legion Post 65 Commander Jason Carvel.

The Presentation of Wreaths was conducted by VFW Post 6338 Commander Roland Roderick and American Legion Post 65 Commander Jason Carvel. The Presentation of Flowers was conducted by Linda McEathron, VFW Post 6338 Auxiliary President, and Emma Hoffman, American Legion Auxiliary President. The Presentation of the Yellow Rose was made by Carla (Cappellino) Frank in honor of all Gold Star Mothers. The Presentation of the Red Rose was made by Lynda Andrews, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) descendant. Sons of the American Legion Member Mark Jenkins presented a wreath. A wreath was also presented by Gouverneur Middle School Principal Michael Hammond from the Gouverneur Central School District.

All then enjoyed the sounds of a bagpipe selection, “Amazing Grace.”

The guest speaker was LTC Richard T. Sposito, Jr., who hails from Newport News, Viriginia. Upon graduation from the Longwood University ROTC, he received his commission in the Military Police Corps in 2007. Following graduation, he attended the MP Basic Officer Leader Course at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. His first assignment was to Fort Campbell, Kentucky where he served as Platoon Leader and Assistant Operations Officer in the 4th BCT, 101st ABN DIV (AASLT), deploying to Afghanistan in 2008-2009.

LTC Sposito graduated from the MP Captain’s Career Course in 2012 where he received an M.A. in Business and Organizational Security Management from Webster’s University and was assigned to 94th MP BN (Seoul, ROK) assuming command of the 55th MP CO (Camp Casey, ROK). Upon completion of command, MAJ Sposito was assigned to The Citadel (Charleston, SC) as an APMS. In 2017, LTC Sposito graduated ILE at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas and was assigned to the 16th MP BDE serving both as the BDE Chief of Operations and Training Officer, deploying as part of the contingency response force to the Southwest Border in 2018. While still at Fort Bragg, LTC Sposito served as BN XO, 503d MP BN then BDE XO, 16th MP BDE from 2019-2021. Following the completion of his time in the 16th MPBDE, LTC Sposito served as the Military Police Organizational Integrator, Forces Command from 2021-23.

Currently, LTC Sposito serves as the Commander, 91st Military Police Battalion and Director of Emergency Services, Fort Drum, New York. His awards include Meritorious Service Medal (3OLC), Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device (1OLC), Army Achievement Medal (2OLC). His badges include the Combat Action Badge, German Armed Forces Efficiency Badge (Gold), Chilean Parachutist Badge, US Army Parachutists Badge, Air Assault Badge, and Pathfinder Badge. His unit awards include the Meritorious Unit Citation. He is also a recipient of the General MacArthur Leadership Award.

LTC Sposito is married to the former Carla Blum from Gloucester, Virginia and together they have two children, Kaitlyn and Abigail.

In his address, LTC Sposito said the following: “Today, we gather to honor those who have worn the uniform, those who have served this nation with courage and dedication, and those who have made countless sacrifices to protect the freedoms we hold dear. This day is not only about remembrance – it is about gratitude, respect, and a solemn acknowledgement of the debt we owe our veterans, past and present.

“While World War I officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed in June of 1919, the fighting ended about seven months before than when the Allies and Germany put into effect an armistice, signed on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. For that reason, November 11, 1918, was largely considered the end of “the war to end all wars” and dubbed Armistice Day. Following World War II and the Korean War, and at the urging of veterans service organizations, Congress amended the commemoration yet again by changing the word “armistice” to “veterans” so the day would honor American veterans of all wars.

“Veterans Day gives us the opportunity to pause and recognize the men and women who have taken an oath to serve. Today, there are about 18 million living veterans, from WWII to our most recent conflicts in the Middle East. They come from every corner of our nation, from all walks of life, yet they share a common, noble purpose: to defend our country and protect the values we cherish.

“Today in Gouverneur, we celebrate a rich history of military service and a proud tradition of supporting our veterans. This community has sent its sons and daughters to serve in times of peace and in times of war, and we honor those who answered the call to serve.

“Personally, I am a third-generation soldier. Both grandfathers and my father served before me, and I am entering my 18th year of service. So, it’s safe to say that I have been around a few military communities. But when I was assigned here to Fort Drum last summer… I was told about a phenomenon, an idea that I did not take seriously. That of the North Country. I was a skeptic. I thought that I had been around, and it was expected around key holidays that we would be asked to participate in events, march in parades, eat a few free meals… the normal stuff. But wow, did I underestimate the North Country. Upon my arrival, I was immediately embraced by the community. I was asked: “How can we support you and the soldiers?” And it was the most genuine offer I have experienced. The James Maloy American Legion Post No. 65 and Commander Jason Carvel. The Silas Wainwright VFW Post 6338 and Commander Roland Roderick. Local community partners and local citizens. Veterans supporting veterans. There is no nobler calling, and I salute you. It is the rich and genuine community that makes the difference in the North Country. I have made friends for life. Friends who have called this community home for generations and some who upon completing their service to our nation never wanted to leave. You have made a difference in so many and have shown that service does not end when you remove the uniform. That the person who swears the oath is one of character, selflessness and of servitude.

“All of you, and those before you, are the reason our soldiers never want to leave, staying here once they complete their service, why Fort Drum is a hidden gem, and why the North Country will always be near and dear to my heart. President George Washington said, “The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve in any war shall be directly proportional to how they perceive the veterans of earlier wars were treated and appreciated by their nation.” If every town was Gouverneur, and every region was the North Country, we would be in a great place.

“We are privileged to live in a country that values freedom, justice and democracy. But those values are not guaranteed. They have been defended and preserved by the brave actions of our servicemembers. Today, we remember those who have served across generations – in World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, and other conflicts. Each generation of veterans has contributed to the legacy of service that we celebrate today.

“Former Chief of Staff of the Army General Raymond Odierno said: “The strength of our nation is our Army (military), and the strength of our Army is our soldiers.” Something that I find incredible is that since 1973 our military has been an all-volunteer force. During times of known and potential conflict, you have raised your right hand to serve… and unfortunately, we have had servicemembers in harms way almost every year since then. And yet you continue to volunteer to serve. To our veterans here today, we honor your service and your sacrifices. You have endured hardships and demonstrated resilience, facing challenges with courage far beyond what should have been asked of you. We are grateful for your service and your example. Your nation owes you a debt of gratitude that can never be paid.”

Thunderous applause then sounded for the veterans in Gouverneur and beyond.

“The last part of Gen. Odierno’s quote is that the “strength of our soldiers is our families.” As we stand together today, let us remember the families of our veterans. Their support, love and sacrifice are often unseen but essential to the strength of our military. They carry the weight of the unknown. They, too, bear the burden of service, and deserve our deepest gratitude,” LTC Sposito said.

The crowd erupted in applause for the veterans’ families.

“It’s an honor to serve with and for all of you,” LTC Sposito said. “Thank you, Gouverneur, for standing with our veterans. May God bless our veterans, their families, and the United States of America.”

Applause then sounded in appreciation of LTC Sposito’s address.

The honor guard salute was conducted by the VFW and American Legion’s combined firing detail, conducted by Karl Beck, Sergeant-at-Arms at VFW Post 6338. “Taps” was performed by GHS Instrumental Music Teacher Olivia Montagno. Benediction was given by VFW Post 6338 Auxiliary Chaplain Ruth Mead.

Much appreciation was extended to those who attended the ceremony, and who contributed any type of service towards the event’s success. All were invited back to the VFW Post 6338, 100 W. Main Street, Gouverneur, for a free luncheon.

For more information about the local veteran organizations, call the VFW at 315-287-4682, or the American Legion at 315-287-4590.

Veterans Day Observance is Nov. 11

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Veterans Day Observance will be held on Monday, November 11, 11 a.m., at the Gouverneur Memorial Arch in the Gouverneur Village Park. The public is invited and encouraged to attend.

The guest speaker is LTC Richard T. Sposito, Jr., who hails from Newport News, Viriginia. Upon graduation from the Longwood University ROTC, he received his commission in the Military Police Corps in 2007. Following graduation, he attended the MP Basic Officer Leader Course at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. His first assignment was to Fort Campbell, Kentucky where he served as Platoon Leader and Assistant Operations Officer in the 4th BCT, 101st ABN DIV (AASLT), deploying to Afghanistan in 2008-2009.

LTC Sposito graduated from the MP Captain’s Career Course in 2012 where he received an M.A. in Business and Organizational Security Management from Webster’s University and was assigned to 94th MP BN (Seoul, ROK) assuming command of the 55th MP CO (Camp Casey, ROK). Upon completion of command, MAJ Sposito was assigned to The Citadel (Charleston, SC) as an APMS. In 2017, LTC Sposito graduated ILE at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas and was assigned to the 16th MP BDE serving both as the BDE Chief of Operations and Training Officer, deploying as part of the contingency response force to the Southwest Border in 2018. While still at Fort Bragg, LTC Sposito served as BN XO, 503d MP BN then BDE XO, 16th MP BDE from 2019-2021. Following the completion of his time in the 16th MPBDE, LTC Sposito served as the Military Police Organizational Integrator, Forces Command from 2021-23.

Currently, LTC Sposito serves as the Commander, 91st Military Police Battalion and Director of Emergency Services, Fort Drum, New York. His awards include Meritorious Service Medal (3OLC), Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device (1OLC), Army Achievement Medal (2OLC). His badges include the Combat Action Badge, German Armed Forces Efficiency Badge (Gold), Chilean Parachutist Badge, US Army Parachutists Badge, Air Assault Badge, and Pathfinder Badge. His unit awards include the Meritorious Unit Citation. He is also a recipient of the General MacArthur Leadership Award.

LTC Sposito is married to the former Carla Blum from Gloucester, Virginia and together they have two children, Kaitlyn and Abigail.

Following the Veterans Day Observance, the public will be invited to attend a luncheon at Silas Wainwright VFW Post 6338, 100 W. Main St., Gouverneur. Remember:  “All gave some, some gave all. We did not know them all, but we owe them all.” For more info, call 315-287-4682.

Cambray Court Apartments has grand re-opening celebration

by Rachel Hunter

The grand re-opening celebration at Cambray Court Apartments, 68 W. Main St., Gouverneur, was held on Tuesday, October 29.

All were welcomed by Ronald P. McDougall, president of the Cambray Housing Corporation, Gary Hallock, project consultant, as well as representatives from financing partners (Community Bank, N.A.), NYS Housing Trust Fund Corporation – Division of Housing and Community Renewal, Development Authority of the North Country, Federal Home Loan Bank of New York, St. Lawrence County Community Development Agency, NYS Energy Research and Development Authority), Architect Engineer (Aubertine & Currier LLC of Watertown, NY), General Contractor (ConTech Building Systems, Inc. of Gouverneur), Management Agent (United Helpers Management Company of Ogdensburg), and Legal Services (Cannon, Hayman, Weiss, LLP of Albany). Also recognized were the Cambray Housing Corporation Board of Trustees, local politicians, and state representatives in attendance, including New York State Assemblyman Kenneth Blankenbush, and NYS Senator Mark Walczyk’s Office Manager Bonnie Fikes, among others.

The celebration was emceed by Gary Hallock, project consultant. “Everyone in this room has had a hand in somehow touching this project,” he said. “I want to extend my personal appreciation for all that you have done in getting it done.” A special word of gratitude was also extended to Ronald P. McDougall (Village of Gouverneur Mayor and Cambray Housing Corporation President) and Board Members Scott Gillan, Ron Tuttle and Duane Winters for their confidence throughout the project.

The floor was then given to Ron McDougall, who warmly welcomed all those in attendance. “Thank you for being with us this morning,” he said. “It’s very important that we have affordable, public housing. That is our goal, and has been our goal for 15-20 years. It is a big day for Cambray Housing, for the citizens of Gouverneur, and for the Village of Gouverneur. We certainly appreciate everyone coming. It’s been a little while. Good things come slow… but we are here and it is done, as much as it can be. We have some issues to close on – some housekeeping issues, but other than that we are all set.

“We got a housing shortage now more than ever in New York State, and particularly in Northern New York. We knew we needed new affordable housing. A little history for everyone… The finished project has been a few years in the making, starting with the flooding 10 years ago. After the flooding, we tore down the flood-impacted apartments on this campus, and built a new 70-unit project next door. Then we totally renovated the project we are celebrating today. So now we have a new campus comprised of our sister project, Cambray Terrace next door, and the newly renovated Cambray Court apartments. The two projects will provide high quality and affordable housing for our low-income seniors for at least another 30 years. A job well done by everyone involved. When I look around the room, I see that everyone here had a role in making this a reality, and I sincerely appreciate your commitment to the task at hand.

“I’d like to take a minute to recognize some folks who have been especially important to this endeavor.

“Clearly, we wouldn’t be here today without the generous support of our financial partners. After all, money is the driving force in what we have accomplished. Community Bank provided a construction loan of almost $4.4 million, and sponsored our $350,000 Federal Home Loan Bank grant. Community Bank Senior VP Ron Bacon is here with us today, and I’d like to acknowledge and thank Ron and the bank for their unwavering support, continued support, and lengthy support of our project.

“The Development Authority of the North Country (DANC) is providing $1 million. Early on, DANC also provided critical pre-development funding, which we badly needed to get the project rolling. DANC Executive Director Carl Farone is with us today, and I extend a huge thank you to Carl, the DANC Board, and to DANC’s Michelle Capone, for their tremendous support of the project.

“The New York State Division of House and Community Renewal is providing $3.4 million toward the renovation. We’d like to thank our HCR Rep Craig Thompson for his support of Cambray Housing. And let’s not forget our local partner, St. Lawrence County Community Development, which provided over $160,000 for energy-related improvements. Thank you for your efforts on our behalf.

“There are others, whose important contributions I should acknowledge, of course. Brian Jones and Noah Landers were the project architects. I think you’ll all agree and there’s been a remarkable transformation of the project from a tired old seventies deal to the present. And locally, our own ConTech Building Systems of Gouverneur was the project contractor. I extend a big thank you to Katie DeJesus, Nate Cole, and Cody Connors for their day-to-day construction expertise.

“Last, and certainly not least, I would like to thank our management company United Helpers Management for the outstanding job they did during construction and every day in managing our project… I thank Regional Director Beth Snyder, project manager Andria Johnson, John Ashley, Jim LaVair, and Jim Cook for all that they do in operating an efficient operation, day in and day out.

“I would just like to say, without ridiculing any other construction that goes on in the community or in other places in Northern New York, yes it took a while. But our local contractor, local management company… the quality is greatly improved from other endeavors that we’ve had in this community before, believe me. I certainly appreciate it. I know at times I might have been a little surly, particularly when people here didn’t have cable TV on Thanksgiving last year. I think I told the architects: “I’ll be watching football. I bet you will too. These people want to watch football.” So thanks to our guiding light, Gary Hallock, project consultant… Things were moving slow, but let’s face it. Getting the properly trained labor crew is difficult. I don’t care where you go, and it is still difficult today, even though the so-called pandemic maybe over to a certain degree. It was difficult doing projects like this during a pandemic, but we did the best we could here in Northern New York. I couldn’t be happier.”

Project Consultant Gary Hallock then underscored the vital role of the financial partners.

DANC Executive Director Carl Farone then said: “From the Development Authority’s perspective, it has been a pleasure teaming up with you folks and making this a reality. Typically, when the authority gets involved in projects, they are not easy. They are multiple phases, multiple years. It’s not typical that it is through a pandemic, but kudos to sticking with this project and providing the affordable housing to the Gouverneur area. Congratulations!”

NYS Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush said: “Thanks for the invitation… What I always look at during these ribbon-cuttings is what you’ve been talking about – the financial partners. The reason I say that is because the State of New York spends a lot of money. If you add Texas and Florida together, we have bigger budgets than both of those states added together. But when I say that, the funding that the State gives to projects like this… that is what we should be spending money on. This type of stuff. I’m always encouraged when I look across the board, at all the financial people in this room that have helped this project. I want to thank all you guys for doing that. I am just happy to be here today. It’s really nice to see, across the board, all the help that we get in our communities.”

NYS Senator Mark Walczyk’s Office Manager Bonnie Fikes said the following: “I just want to say hello from the Senator. He is currently in Kuwait, still deployed with his service in Army Reserves, and hopefully will be home very soon. We certainly recognize the need for affordable housing in this area… I have a history with housing. It seems like we can always get the money to build a project. It is very hard to get the money to keep it up. So, thank you for the invitation.”

Community Bank N.A. Vice President Ron Bacon then said the following: “I think it was Ken Snyder that steered me to this project. I thought it was a great opportunity, a very important project for the county, and I was more than happy to become involved. For those that don’t know, construction lending has a lot of risk, and we have everything in this project. We had record price increases. We had the project re-bid out one or two times. We had to extend this thing numerous times. We had interest rates that nobody anticipated from the beginning that affected the interest cost of the project. I mentioned we had cost overruns, and we have delays. Those are all reasons that banks hesitate some to do construction lending. There is a lot of risk, but we got through it. I want to thank the permanent lenders who are paying our construction loan off for their understanding and ability to increase their loan commitments over time. Without that, we wouldn’t have gotten out of this. I really want to thank Gary. He’s been the glue that’s held this whole project together. It was great working with him, and without his cooperation and the information that he provided, we would never have gotten through this like we did. We had some sleepless nights… but we are here. Great project!”

The celebration concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and thunderous applause sounded in grateful appreciation for the project’s finalization.

Gouverneur CSD Board of Education hears Wildcat news

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur CSD Board of Education heard the Wildcat news report, given by Gouverneur CSD Supt. Jackie Kelly, at the Oct. 21 meeting.

“As you know, our cafeterias have begun to use locally sourced food, and tonight I have some facts about that to share with you,” Supt. Kelly said. “The Gouverneur cafeterias have served approximately 1,600 pounds of locally grown, picked and processed apple slices as well as unprocessed apples. We served 250 pounds each of salsa mix, diced onions and diced green peppers. We also just began to receive butternut squash. We started using corn on the cob and green beans that had been flash-frozen allowing us to have fresh vegetables throughout the entire school year. These fruits and vegetables are grown and harvested by our local farmers right here in St. Lawrence County. Then, they are processed and packaged in the Harvest Kitchen at the Cornell Cooperative Extension in Canton. Apples, salsa mix, onions and green peppers are delivered to Gouverneur and neighboring school districts each week by St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES staff. We are also using local potatoes to make homemade French fries as well as fresh beef and pork products that are sourced locally. We are very excited to be able to offer these vegetables, fruits and meats to our students, and we are continuing to work to offer more locally grown produce in the future.

“Next, in our Wildcat news, I want to share a great opportunity in which some of our students participated last week. On Thursday, October 17, some of our high school students here at Gouverneur participated in St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES Annual Manufacturing Day. The event had students tour manufacturing facilities across the region, learning about the array of products that are made right here in the North Country and discovering the variety of careers possible in the industry. This year, some of the companies right here in Gouverneur (including Kinney Drugs, CIVES Steel, and Riverside Iron) participated in this special event. Our students from Gouverneur visited Riverside Iron and the Five Mile Farm in Lisbon. At Riverside Iron, our students saw some of the miscellaneous ornamental and structural steel fabricated right here in Gouverneur. Our students also visited the Five Mile Farm in Lisbon, which has been in the Akins family since the mid-1800s. Today, the fifth, sixth and seventh generations work together on the farm. Our students got to see a modern farm, including a 50-cow rotary parlor that improves the efficiency of milking cows in operation. Manufacturing Day is a national initiative spearheaded by the Manufacturing Institute. It is traditionally held in the month of October, or whenever there is an opportunity to spark interest in the next generation of manufacturers. In this part of the region, the effort is organized by St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES, who coordinates the business visits with St. Lawrence County Industrial Development Agency. Over 340 students from St. Lawrence County attended this event, and students from Hammond, Morristown, and Lisbon visited businesses right here in the vicinity of Gouverneur. I’d like to thank Mr. Sochia for chaperoning this educational opportunity for our students.

“Finally, I’d like to provide an update on the RECOVS grant. As you know, we were the recipient of the 2023-2025 New York State RECOVS Recover from COVID School Program Grant in the amount of $508,000. This money is helping us continue some of our ARP-funded positions through the year 2025. In addition to the two social worker positions that were created, we will still be working with Gouverneur Behavioral Health to expand student access to school-based mental health professionals right here in our school buildings. We are all very excited about the development of this relationship with a local organization that will help support our students and their families. As a reminder, Gouverneur was one of only two school districts in the North Country to receive this grant, and it is a tremendous opportunity for us, our students and their families. Thank you!”

Much gratitude was extended to Supt. Kelly for her report.

In other news:

The Gouverneur CSD Board of Education was recognized during the School Board Appreciation Week, October 14-18. The Board includes: David Fenlong, President, Todd Bates, Vice President, Brooke Bush, William Cartwright, Lisa McGregor, Nickolas Ormasen, Laurie Roberts, and Laura Spicer. Appreciation was extended to the Board for all that they do. Gouverneur CSD Supt. Kelly said: “The New York State School Boards Association recognized Oct. 14-18, 2024 as School Board Recognition Week,” she said. “This is a time to promote awareness and understanding of the important work performed by our school boards. Board members are required to make difficult decisions and spend countless hours studying education issues and regulations in order to provide accountability to our community stakeholders. Our board members spend many hours volunteering their time to ensure strategies, resources, policies and programs align with our district goals. School board members give the citizens of Gouverneur a voice in decision making. They are advocates for public education. It takes strong schools to build a strong community. These men and women devote their time to make sure our schools help every child to have the opportunity to be successful. Every decision they make is not only in the best interest of our 1,444 students but also in the best of interest of our district families, our faculty and staff members, and the entire community of Gouverneur. Thank you, to each and every one of you, for all that you do for all of the stakeholders in our district.” A tribute video was posted on the Gouverneur CSD Facebook page following the board meeting. During public comment, Jerrilyn Patton, Co-President of the Gouverneur Education Association, presented a small token of appreciation (gift certificate to the Casablanca Restaurant in Gouverneur) to the school board members in gratitude for all the work that they do, and the support of the students, school programs, etc. For more information on the Gouverneur CSD Board of Education, visit www.gcsk12.org.

The Gouverneur CSD Board of Education heard the audit report from Crowley & Halloran, CPAs, P.C. The Board then accepted the external auditor’s report for fiscal year, ending June 30, 2024.

The Board approved the following recommendations for tenure: Bobbie Holmes (Science Teacher) and Jean C. Johnson (English Teacher).

The Board approved the addendum to the Memorandum of Agreement #5 between the Gouverneur Central School District and the Gouverneur School Related Personnel Union to provide additional compensation to teacher aides who substitute teach when no substitutes or other appropriates means are available to extend through the 2024-25 school year.

The Board approved Memorandum of Agreement #1 between the Gouverneur Central School District and the Gouverneur Education Association to amend Appendix A to recognize DEI Club (Class E).

The Board accepted resignation requests from Erika J. Woodrow (Individual Aide), Elizabeth Rathbun (2.75-hour Food Service Helper), and Michelle Fiacco (2.75-hour Food Service Helper).

The Board approved the following appointments: Ashley Barr and Lindsey McCormick were named Gouverneur Elementary Afterschool Tutoring Instructors. Pam Stevens was named a Middle School Afterschool Tutoring Instructor. The following substitutes were appointed: Carlton M. Bresett, Mallorie Fuller, Rachel Laso, Morgan Prashaw, Jennifer Stiles, Gabrielle Platt. The Board approved the following 2024-25 advisors: Select Strings (Janeen L. Streeter), FFA Assistant (Taylor A. Rollins), FFA Summer 2024 (Kylie Torres).

The Board appointed the following 2024-25 winter coaches: Varsity Wrestling (George J. Baer), Basketball Girls 8th Grade (Evelyn G. Barton), Basketball Boys 7th and 8th Grade (Jarrett W. Bullock), JV Wrestling (Shawn Cummings), Wrestling 7th & 8th Grade (David M. Dailey), Varsity Girls Basketball (Sean Devlin), Winter Cheerleading (Erica Dowling), Volunteer Girls Basketball (Chelsi Peck), Girls Wrestling (Dylan Morrison), Modified Indoor Track (Julie K. Neiss), Basketball Girls 7th Grade (Korrine Patterson), Varsity Boys Basketball (Michael A. Shattuck), Basketball Girls JV (Rick L. Vrooman), Indoor Track (Kurtis P. Wells), Swim Boys Volunteer Assistant (Saddie R. Whitaker), and Swim Boys (Brett M. Worden).

The Board appointed students Kristen Burns as lifeguard, fitness room attendant. It also appointed Cayleigh Flynn as fitness room attendant.

The Board revised the appointment of Grace Mashaw, School counselor, to a probationary period, effective September 24, 2024 to September 23, 2028.

The Board appointed Madison L. Hurlbut to the non-probationary position of long-term substitute to replace a certain employee, effective September 17, 2024 to approximately December 13, 2024.

The Board had its first reading in its policy review for the following: 3231 (Complaints and Grievances by Employees), 3232 (Complaints and Grievances by Students), 3421 (Title IX and Sex Discrimination), 4250 (Evaluation of the Superintendent and other Administrative Staff), 5240 (School Tax Assessment and Collection/Property Tax Exemptions), 5681 (School Safety Plans), 8212 (Fire and Emergency Drills, Bomb Threats, and Bus Emergency Drills), 6550 (Leaves of Absence), 7220 (Graduation Requirements), 7224 (Virtual Instruction), 7470 (Student Government), 7540 (Student Directory Information), 8130 (Equal Educational Opportunities), and 7555 (Educational Services for Married/Pregnant Students). It is anticipated that the Board will adopt the recommendations at the Nov. 4 board meeting.

The Board approved the request for the Varsity Wrestling team to attend and compete in the following tournaments: Windsor Holiday Tournament, Windsor, NY (December 27-28), Peru Invitational, Peru, NY (January 4), Dame of Thrones, Halfmoon, NY (January 5), and King and Queen Bison Invitational, Latham, NY (January 25-26).

The Board approved the request for the Varsity Girls Basketball team to attend and compete in the following tournament: VVS Holiday Basketball Tournament, Verona, NY (December 27-28).

The Board approved the request for one member of the local chapter of the FFA to attend the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis from October 20-26, 2024. The student traveled with Assistant FFA Advisor Taylor Rollins and the Lowville chapter, and will cover her own expenses. The Board noted that it is interested in hearing about the trip at a future meeting.

The Board approved the request from the Class of 2025 for an overnight trip to Boston, Mass. in May 2025.

The Board authorized the Business Administrator to dispose of items declared as surplus that are obsolete, no longer useful or necessary for school district purposes and of no value to the school district.

The Board appointed Alissa McEathron, Julie Neiss, and Stephanie Plaisted as Teacher Ambassadors to the St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES for the 2024-25 school year.

The next regular meeting of the Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education will be held on Monday, November 4, 5:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.gcsk12.org.

Sixth Annual Gouverneur Trunk or Treat a success with over 1,200 attending

by Rachel Hunter

North Country community members arrived in droves to attend the 2024 Trunk or Treat in Gouverneur. The annual event was sponsored by the Community Health Center of the North Country and Seaway Valley Prevention Council who worked in partnership with the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Association and Gouverneur Central School District.

The Community Health Center of the North Country and the Seaway Valley Prevention Council started the event in 2018, and now they hold Trunk or Treat events across the North Country in Gouverneur, Ogdensburg and Massena. Over 3,800 persons were in attendance at the 2024 Trunk or Treats. The highest attendance was at the Ogdensburg Trunk or Treat with 1,351 persons attending. Second was Massena with 1,268 persons in attendance. Gouverneur had 1,215 persons in attendance. Due to the great amount of community support, Gouverneur had the most decorated trunks (42). Massena had 36, and Ogdensburg had 28. All treaters in attendance at the 2024 Gouverneur Trunk or Treat were welcomed by Community Health Center of the North Country and Seaway Valley Prevention Center staff.

Due to the generous contributions from the many organizations, clubs, local businesses, and community members in attendance, a total of 42 decorated trunks were set up down the fairgrounds midway to distribute “treats” to all those in attendance. The treats ranged from the sweet to the nutritious, as well as toys, crafts and much more. With the proclamation, “Trick or treat!” the youngsters took the available treats. The fairgrounds was the ideal locations as the midway was a walkable location for people of all ages, all abilities. Much gratitude to all those who made the event a success in the Gouverneur community.

The event included decorated trunks by the Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce, Seaway Valley Prevention Council, Community Health Center of the North Country, James Maloy American Legion Post 65, GHS Key Club, Gouverneur Peewee Cheer, FirstStudent, Kinney Drugs, Head Start, Gouverneur Savings and Loan Association, Gouverneur Public Library, among many others. The Jumbo’s Food Truck was also available on grounds. Also in attendance were the Gouverneur Fire Department, Gouverneur Rescue Squad, and Gouverneur Police Department.

The Sixth Annual Gouverneur Trunk or Treat event once again served as a fun, family-friendly way to get the word out about what services are available for people dealing with substance use issues. The idea originated with the Seaway Valley Prevention Council who in partnership with the Massena Drug-Free Community Coalition held a successful Trunk or Treat at Massena High School, which attracted hundreds of costumed children. Piggybacking on this rousing success while seeking a fun, engaging way to spread the word in the local community about the services available to those with substance use issues, SVPC and CHCNC thought the best way would be to bring a Trunk or Treat event to Gouverneur. Now, Gouverneur-area families say that it has become a tradition that they look forward to each Halloween.

For more info on how you can help at the Seventh Annual Gouverneur Trunk or Treat in 2025, call the Seaway Valley Prevention Council at (315) 713-4861 or visit svpc.net. For more information about the Community Health Center of the North Country, visit chcnorthcountry.org.