Gouverneur Ice Rink opens for the season

by Rachel Hunter

The ice skating rink at Riverview Recreational Park in Gouverneur officially opened for the season on Saturday, January 15 at 4673 NY-58, Gouverneur.

Ice skating has been a favorite winter pastime for North Country families since at least the late 1880s. While the community’s ice rink has seen different locations over the years, what has remained the same is the North Country’s love of the ice.

The Gouverneur Ice Rink, now opened for the season and located near the Gouverneur Community Center, welcomes North Country residents of all skill levels to lace up their skates and enjoy the sport. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, organizers request that only one family use the bunkhouse at a time to put on skates.

The Gouverneur Ice Rink is possible thanks to many hours of volunteer support and donations from the Gouverneur community. Any notices regarding the ice’s condition will be posted on the Gouverneur Riverview Park Facebook page. For more information or to learn how to donate, call Jeremy at 315-921-1754.

Gouverneur Public Library hosting “Blind Date With A Book” and “Super Secret Surprise” Books Program now until Feb. 14

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Public Library, 60 Church St., Gouverneur this week started a new book programs for its patrons to encourage reading throughout the winter months leading up to the Valentine's Day holiday.

“Blind Date With A Book” is for all adults in the Gouverneur-area community to enjoy. Gouverneur Public Library Manager Greta Schrader said patrons will get a choice between historical fiction, romance, suspense and thrillers, and non-fiction. “The patron would come in, and the books are all covered up,” Schrader said. You get three words that describe the books for whatever stirs their emotions. They will bring it up to us. We’ll check them out. And when they get it home, they can open it.” As soon as the patron is finished reading their selection, they are welcome to make a return visit to the Gouverneur Public Library to pick another book. The program will last until Valentine’s Day, Monday, February 14.

A similar program has been established for local youth, and is called the “Super Secret Surprise Books Program.” All youths in the Gouverneur-area community are invited to stop by the Gouverneur Public Library and make their selections. Gouverneur Public Library Manager Greta Schrader said that youth will have the opportunity to select picture books, early chapter books, or chapter books. As soon as youths are finished reading their book selection, they are invited to make another selection. This program too will last until Valentine’s Day on Monday, February 14.

For more information on these programs, stop by or call the Gouverneur Public Library at 315-287-0191.

Gouverneur Central School District to host Food Box Distribution on Jan. 17

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Central School District will host a Food Box Distribution on Monday, January 17, starting at 11 a.m., at the Gouverneur Elementary School Parking Lot, 111 Gleason St., Gouverneur.

Organizers told the Gouverneur Tribune Press this week that 500 boxes of produce and dairy products will be available for distribution until all are gone.

All attendees are asked to follow the traffic cone pattern for safety and contactless pick-up.

DeKalb Jct. UMC to host free will Chicken and Biscuit Dinner on Jan. 11

by Rachel Hunter

A Free Will Chicken and Biscuit Dinner will be held on Tuesday, January 11, 5 to 6 p.m., at the DeKalb Junction United Methodist Church, 4302 Route 11, DeKalb Junction. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, the meals will be available via curbside delivery. All monetary and non-perishable food donations will be accepted to support the food ministries of the DeKalb Junction and Hermon United Methodist Churches.

All motorists are asked to come via the Gouverneur direction, so that they can turn directly into the parking lot and not have to cross the traffic on Route 11. All then are asked to follow the traffic cones, turn around and stop at the door where volunteers will bring out the required number of meals and Pastor Martha Helmer will momentarily visit with the folks in attendance. All meals are served on a first come, first served basis.

Organizer April Allen told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that the DeKalb Junction Methodist Church started its holiday food box ministry at least 15 to 20 years ago.

“Originally they provided all the fixings for a holiday meal at Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter, delivering to individuals and families in the Hermon-DeKalb School District that had been identified as being a family that would benefit from receiving a box,” Mrs. Allen said.

“At some point prior to 2012, they approached the Hermon Methodist Church to see if they would be willing to be a distribution point for the boxes for the families with a Hermon address which the Hermon Church was happy to do and within a couple of years the Hermon Church took over providing the food for and packing the boxes for those families.

“Today, the two churches operate separately but cooperatively. Each continues to provide holiday food boxes at Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter to individuals and families within the Hermon DeKalb School District. Both pantries have non-perishable food items they can provide to anyone living within the school district who finds themselves in need of food on a short-term basis,” Mrs. Allen said.

DeKalb Junction UMC and Old DeKalb UMC Pastor Martha Helmer told the Gouverneur Tribune Press this week that the food ministry serves about 20 local families, and are constantly seeking other residents who could benefit from the program. The mission is possible thanks to great deal of support received by community members, church members, and others. Pastor Helmer added that generous donations of canned goods and boxed food items are brought to the ministry from the Kendrew Church, since it is partially in the Town of DeKalb. “It’s a community project,” Pastor Helmer said.

Mrs. Allen agreed, saying that “both pantries rely solely on donations of non-perishable food items and money from their respective members and members of their communities to continue their ministries.” She added that both pantries have been the grateful recipients of food from food drives organized at the Hermon-DeKalb Central School and by other local groups, including Scouts.

When supplies get low at the local food pantries, the churches inform their congregation through a “needs list.” At the DeKalb Junction UMC and the Old DeKalb UMC, Pastor Helmer said they print the needs list in the church bulletin from time to time throughout the year, and ask for supplies like boxed macaroni, boxed potatoes, canned goods, juices, peanut butter, etc.

“When we get down, we just make a list and try to replenish because there are families who might need food in between the holidays,” Pastor Helmer said.

The North Country community has been generous to support the food ministries at the DeKalb Junction and Hermon United Methodist Churches in the past – even amid tough times like the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. Pastor Helmer told the Gouverneur Tribune Press this week that the food ministry is just one of many at the local United Methodist Churches.

“We try to do God’s work and God’s missions within our community and often that goes out to the larger community, country and the world, depending on the project,” she said.

Pastor Helmer said she is always amazed at God’s providence. While taking a course, Pastor Helmer encouraged the Seven Steeples United Methodist Churches (Edwards, South Edwards, Hermon, Russell, DeGrasse, DeKalb Junction, and Old DeKalb) to assist the Red Bird Mission in Kentucky.

“We boxed up and sent just shy of 95 pounds of baby needs items – wipes, diapers, shampoo, pacifiers, sippy cups, etc.,” she said. “It was the week before the tornadoes hit, and they were 10 miles from this mission. You can see how God was working in us getting that material there. I just thought that was God’s hand working. I was so pleased that was a good mission for our churches. Everybody was more than willing to help…”

Pastor Helmer said she hopes to do another mission project in the spring.

“It’s fun to help out where we can,” she said.

In addition, parishioners at the United Methodist Churches are able to donate to the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR), which assists dozens of disaster relief projects each year – including the recent disaster relief project for the Kentucky tornado victims. All donations are welcome for that project as well.

Among the many other projects, Pastor Helmer said the visitation ministry has grown exponentially amid the COVID-19 pandemic crisis.

“We appreciate anything anyone can do to help with the missions within our community, our country and our world,” Pastor Helmer said.

With only a few days remaining until the Chicken and Biscuit Dinner on Tuesday, January 11 at the DeKalb Junction Methodist Church, volunteers are readying to serve the North Country community another delectable dinner – with all donations going to the food ministries at the DeKalb Junction and Hermon United Methodist Churches. Organizers say the food pantry could use donations of applesauce, fruit cups, dry pasta, pasta sauce, canned soup, canned meat, etc.

Please check the expiration date to ensure it is not passed before making the donation. “We always end up with outdated products and we cannot use them when we pack our boxes,” Mrs. Allen said.

For more information on the DeKalb Junction United Methodist Church, call the office at 315-347-3383. Ed. Note: See upcoming editions of the Gouverneur Tribune Press for the announcement of future benefit dinners and other events across the North Country community.

Reminder: Food Box Distribution to be held Dec. 28 at Gouverneur Elementary

by Rachel Hunter

A food box distribution will be held on Tuesday, December 28, starting at 11 a.m., located at the Gouverneur Elementary School, 111 Gleason St., Gouverneur. The boxes will include dairy and produce items.

Gouverneur community members are asked not to line up prior to 10:30 a.m.

If you have any questions, please contact Stephanie LaShomb at 315-323-2953, or lashomb.stephanie@gcsk12.org.

Free To the Community: Drive-Thru Christmas Dinner on Dec. 23

by Rachel Hunter

The First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur, 34 Grove St., Gouverneur, will host a “Free To The Community Christmas Dinner” on Thursday, December 23, starting at 4 p.m.

The free Christmas dinner will be served via curbside only amid the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. There will be one-way traffic only, and all are asked to enter by Tangles and exit by KeyBank.

The Christmas Dinner will include ham, baked potato with all the trimmings.

The entire Gouverneur community is invited to attend. Please call 315-287-2440 for a pick-up time, no later than noon on Wednesday, December 22.

Village of Gouverneur board sets trick-or-treating hours

by Rachel Hunter

It’s official! Halloween Trick-or-treating in the Village of Gouverneur will be from 5 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, October 31. The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees voted unanimously on the matter during the Oct. 19 board meeting. In the past year, COVID-19 has kept the world from participating in many events – and Halloween was among the events impacted. According to guidance recently released by the CDC, it is safe for families to participate in collecting candy this year, using hand sanitizer and distributing candy outdoors. To see a list of all Halloween events in the Gouverneur community, check out this week’s calendar of events in the Gouverneur Tribune Press.

GHS Homecoming Weekend to feature yard games, bonfire, block dance, sporting events

by Rachel Hunter

The 2021 Gouverneur High School Homecoming Weekend will be held Sept. 24-25.

GHS Principal Cory Wood told the Gouverneur Tribune Press this week that, instead of the Homecoming parade, the students will play yard games from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, September 24, and enjoy the traditional bonfire at about 8 p.m. On Saturday from 8 to 10:30 p.m., the Homecoming Dance will take the form of a block dance behind the High School for all students in Grades 9-12. Admission cost is $5.

Due to restrictions amid the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, the GHS Wall of Fame Induction has been put on pause. The PowderPuff football games will also not happen.

The Gouverneur Central School District also announced a series of home games this week. It started on Monday, September 20 when the Gouverneur Wildcat Varsity Football won its first game of the season, 41-0, over St. Lawrence Central. Th Gouverneur Central School District is scheduled to host the season home opener on the Frank LaFalce Field in Gouverneur during Homecoming Weekend. The Gouverneur Wildcats vs. Malone Central game is scheduled for Saturday, September 25, at 1:30 p.m. The Gouverneur Wildcat Cheerleaders will also be in attendance.

The Gouverneur Wildcat Girls Varsity Soccer Team is scheduled for games this Thursday, September 23, at 4:30 p.m. against Canton on the Wildcat Soccer Field (Gouverneur Middle School), and on Saturday, September 25 at 10 a.m. on the Wildcat Soccer Field (Gouverneur Middle School) against Ogdensburg Free Academy. The Gouverneur Wildcat Boys Varsity Soccer Team will face Morristown at home on Saturday, September 25 at 10 a.m.

The Gouverneur Wildcat Varsity Volleyball Team held a home game against Clifton-Fine on Tuesday, September 21. For up-to-date schedule information, visit sectionxboces.com.

All are encouraged to show that they bleed Blue and Gold during the GHS Spirit Week and Homecoming Weekend. To learn more about Gouverneur Central School District, visit gcsk12.org.

Village of Gouverneur advises motoring public of paving schedule

The Village of Gouverneur, Department of Public Works, would like to advise the motoring public that on Monday, September 20th, we will be paving Clinton Street (From West Babcock to Little Bow Road), Parker Street (From Williams Street to Hailesboro Street) and Bellevue Street (From Johnstown to Adelia). Work will begin at 7:00 am and continue throughout the day. Of course, inclement weather will change this schedule. During the day, throughout the day these streets may be shut down to thru traffic and only emergency vehicles will be allowed through. The Village of Gouverneur Department of Public Works apologizes for any inconvenience and appreciate the public’s cooperation.

Village of Gouverneur issues boil water advisory

by Rachel Hunter

A boil water order was issued on Sept. 5 for the customers of the Village of Gouverneur Water System, who reside on the West Side, north of Route 11 (Johnstown side of Route 11). All customers were advised to boil water used for drinking and culinary purposes. Bottled water from a NYS certified source was offered as an alternative solution.

Village of Gouverneur Department of Public Work Supt. TJ Simmons said the reason for the boil water was that the water system on the north side of Route 11 tested positive for Total Coliform but negative for E. Coli. Total Coliform bacteria is harmless, but is an indicator that there could be a problem with water quality because of a very low free chlorine residual of this section of the distribution system.

In response, the Village of Gouverneur DPW flushed hydrants to get the free chlorine residual up on Sept. 5. They also flushed some hydrants in the affected area on Monday, September 6 and then the Chief Operator of the Water Filtration Plant was to take samples to ensure the Boil Water Order could be lifted. As of press deadline this week, no update had been publicized.

The Gouverneur Middle School was affected by the boil water advisory on the first day of school, Tuesday, September 7. The Gouverneur Central School District announced that it would boil all water for culinary purposes and provide all students, faculty, and staff with bottled drinking water while the advisory was in effect. Much gratitude was extended to all district families for the continued support while Gouverneur CSD brought all students back to in-person learning.

Future updates from the Village of Gouverneur will be posted on the Gouverneur Tribune Press Facebook page and reported in upcoming weekly editions of the Gouverneur Tribune Press.

GCSD: High levels of lead found in drinking water sources at GHS; samples taken during period of inactivity in May 2021

by Rachel Hunter

Gouverneur Central School District Superintendent of Schools Jacquelyn Kelly sent a letter to families in the Gouverneur Central School District on Aug. 25 after raised lead levels were reported in school drinking water sources at Gouverneur High School.

“Our district, with the assistance of the Jefferson-Lewis BOCES Health and Safety Office, took samples from drinking water sources such as water bubblers, drinking fountains, and sinks typically used for water consumption. Additionally, such locations as custodial closet sinks, bathroom sinks, and other locations that are not typically used as sources of drinking water were also tested,” Supt. Kelly said.

“The results of the testing revealed lead concentration above the New York State Department of Health requirement of 15 ppb (parts per billion) in several areas of the Gouverneur High School. I received the results on Friday, August 20 at 12:30 p.m. At that time, Mr. Simmons placed non-potable water signage at all outlets that tested about the action level (15 ppb) to the affected areas. Please be assured that all students and staff still have locations for water such as drinking fountains that tested below the limit.

“The “on-again, off-again” nature of water use at schools can raise lead levels in school drinking water. Water that remains in pipes overnight, over a weekend, or over vacation periods stays in contact with lead pipes or lead solder and, as a result, could contain higher levels of lead. It is important to note that this water sample was taken on May 13, 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, the water had not been in regular use for an extended period. All outlets that tested above the action level (15 ppb) will be retested once school is back in session. That will allow for a more regular and continuous use of all outlets.”

The following notice was posted to all parents, guardians and staff at Gouverneur High School: “Safe and healthy school environments can foster healthy and successful children. To protect public health, the Public Health Law and New York State Health Department (NYS DOH) regulations require that all public schools and boards of cooperative educational services (BOCES) test lead levels in water from every outlet that is being used, or could potentially be used, for drinking or cooking. If lead is found at any water outlet at levels above 15 parts per billion (ppb), which is equal to 15 micrograms per liter (μg/L), the NYS DOH requires that the school take action to reduce the exposure to lead.

“What is first draw testing of school drinking water for lead? The “on-again, off-again” nature of water use at most schools can raise lead levels in school drinking water. Water that remains in pipes overnight, over a weekend, or over vacation periods stays in contact with lead pipes or lead solder and, as a result, could contain higher levels of lead.

“Therefore, schools are required to collect a sample after the water has been sitting in the plumbing system for a certain period. This “first draw” sample is likely to show higher levels of lead for that outlet than what you would see if you sampled after using the water continuously. However, even if the first draw sample does not reflect what you would see with continuous usage, it is still important because it can identify outlets that have elevated lead levels.”

What are the results of the first draw testing? The Gouverneur High School samples collected on May 13, 2021 showed the following results: On Floor 1, in the Girls Locker Room (second sink), a sink, (172 ppb). On Floor 2, in the Classroom No. 352, a sink, 17 ppb. On Floor 1, in the Girls Pool Locker Room, first sink, 17 ppb. On Floor 1, Boys Pool Locker Room, first sink, 18 ppb. On Floor 1, Classroom No. 178, a sink, 29 ppb. On Floor 1, Kitchen Kettle (sink) – right, 22 ppb. On Floor 1, Classroom No. 125, third sink, 1210 ppb. On Floor 1, Classroom No. 125, second sink, 50 ppb. On Floor 1, Classroom No. 125, first sink, 815 ppb. On Floor 1, Classroom No. 125, fourth sink, 5190 ppb. On Floor 1, Classroom No. 126, first sink, 16 ppb. On Floor 1, Classroom No. 126, third sink, 70 ppb. On Floor 1, Girls Bath (near Exit 10), first sink, 6040 ppb. On Floor 1, Girls Bath (near Exit 10), first sink, 6650 ppb.

The following actions are being taken in response to the results: Non-potable water signage has been placed at all outlets that tested with lead levels above the action level (15 ppb). The school will implement a systematic flushing program to implement routinely. Retesting of all outlets that tested above the action level (15ppb) will occur once school is back in session which will allow for the continuous usage of all outlets. The kitchen kettle will be retested prior to the opening of school. Outlets that tested below the action level will remain in service with no restrictions.

Gouverneur Central School District families were also given the following information: “Lead is a metal that can harm children and adults when it gets into their bodies. Lead is a known neurotoxin, particularly harmful to the developing brain and nervous system of children under 6 years old. Lead can harm a young child's growth, behavior, and ability to learn. Lead exposure during pregnancy may contribute to low birth weight and developmental delays in infants. There are many sources of lead exposure in the environment, and it is important to reduce all lead exposures as much as possible. Water testing helps identify and correct possible sources of lead that contribute to exposure from drinking water.

“What are the other sources of lead exposure? Lead is a metal that has been used for centuries for many purposes, resulting in widespread distribution in the environment. Major sources of lead exposure include lead-based paint in older housing, and lead that built up over decades in soil and dust due to historical use of lead in gasoline, paint, and manufacturing. Lead can also be found in several consumer products, including certain types of pottery, pewter, brass fixtures, foods, plumbing materials, and cosmetics. Lead seldom occurs naturally in water supplies but drinking water could become a possible source of lead exposure if the building’s plumbing contains lead. The primary source of lead exposure for most children with elevated blood lead levels is lead based paint.

“Should your child be tested for lead? The risk to an individual child from past exposure to elevated lead in drinking water depends on many factors, including but not limited to, a child’s age, weight, amount of water consumed, and the amount of lead in the water. Children may also be exposed to other significant sources of lead including paint, soil, and dust. Since blood lead testing is the only way to determine a child’s blood lead level, parents should discuss their child’s health history with their child’s physician to determine if blood lead testing is appropriate. Pregnant women or women of childbearing age should also consider discussing this matter with their physician.”

For additional resources on lead exposure, visit www.health.ny.gov. To see the full report on the lead testing results, visit the Gouverneur Central School District website at gcsk12.org.

Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees hear monthly GPD Report

by Rachel Hunter

Village of Gouverneur Chief of Police Laurina Greenhill provided the following report to the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees ahead of its meeting on Tuesday, August 17 in the municipal courtroom.

The notable activities since the last board meeting (July 20, 2021) are as follows:

On July 22, 2021, Chief Greenhill and Officer Nathan Sheen spent about an hour meeting the youth attending the Gouverneur Rec program at the Gouverneur Recreation Park to talk about what police do and answer questions about law enforcement.

On July 26 and 27, 2021, Officers Alex Daggett and Jesse Sheen attended and successfully passed ARIDE training held at Potsdam Police Department. The Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE) course was developed to train law enforcement officers to observe, identify and articulate the signs of impairment related to drugs, alcohol, or combination of both, in order to reduce the number of impaired driving incidents as well as crashes which result in serious injuries and fatalities.

Many law enforcement officers are trained in Standardized Field Sobriety Testing (SFST) and the skill gained in the course as part of their overall enforcement of driving while impaired (DWI) laws. Additionally, some officers complete more advanced training through the Drug Evaluation and Classification (DEC) program and become Drug Recognition Experts (DRE). This course is intended to bridge the gap between the SFST and DRE courses and provide the participants with an awareness of drug impairment in the context of traffic safety.

As of July 31, 2021, Police Officer Hunter Birchenough has satisfactorily completed field training.

Chief Greenhill also extended gratitude to DPW Superintendent TJ Simmons and the rest of the DPW crew along with the NYSDOT for supplying barrels and assisting in setting them up to mark off no parking on N. Gordon St. for the week of the 2021 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair. The purpose was to keep that street open for emergency vehicles.

On August 11, 2021, Chief Greenhill attended the monthly Enhanced Elder Abuse Multidisciplinary Team meeting held via zoom for the purpose of updates and case consult and review.

On August 13, 2021, Chief Greenhill attended the monthly Child Advocacy Center Multi-disciplinary meeting via zoom to participate in case reviews.

For the month of July 2021, the Gouverneur Police Department received 379 calls for service and made 22 arrests with a total of 28 charges. The breakdown of the charges is as follows: Felony- 1, Misdemeanors- 9, Violations- 2, Infractions- 8, Bench/ Arrest Warrants- 4. There were also four mental health arrests (2 by police observation/investigation and 2 by pick up order from another authorized agent).

Mayor encourages public to attend upcoming events

by Rachel Hunter

At the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees Meeting, Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall encouraged the public to participate in the following community events:

Ryan’s Wish Foundation Golf Tournament: The 2021 Ryan’s Wish Foundation Golf Tournament will be held at Emerald Greens’ 18-hole golf course in Gouverneur on Saturday, August 21, 10 a.m.

The Ryan’s Wish Foundation helps literally hundreds of people and their families within the North Country. The Ryan’s Wish Foundation (501 (C) (3) nonprofit organization) is created to celebrate the inspirational life of Ryan Saidel. The foundation is dedicated to helping people who are battling a serious illness to “play and live strong.” The Foundation serves people in the tri-county areas of Northern New York: Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence Counties. Funds received from the Foundation can help offset traveling costs and other expenses incurred by individuals and their families during treatment or hospitalization.

The 2021 Ryan’s Wish Foundation Annual Golf Tournament will follow a 4 Team Captain & Crew format. Cost is $60.00 per member or $240 per team. Donations are appreciated. The tournament will be held on Saturday, August 21, 2021 at 10 a.m. at Emerald Greens Golf Course in Gouverneur, New York. To register: Call Emerald Greens at 315-287-4497 or Gary West at 315-955-2101; gwest29@gmail.com.

Silas Wainwright VFW Post 75th Anniversary Dinner/Dance: The Silas Wainwright Veterans of Foreign Wars Post, located at 100 W. Main St., Gouverneur, will hold its 75th Anniversary Dinner and Dance on Saturday, August 21. The event starts at 5 p.m. (cocktail hour) with dinner at 6 p.m. dinner and ceremony to follow. All are invited to stay for the 8 p.m. dance, featuring the local band, The Shoes. Cost is $14 (dinner and dance included). No reservations are required. The North Country community is invited to come and celebrate the 75th Anniversary of Silas Wainwright VFW Post No. 6338. For more information, call 315-287-4682.

The public is also informed that the Village offices and Department of Public Works will be closed on September 6, in observance of Labor Day.

The next regular meeting of the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees will be held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, September 21, in the municipal courtroom.

2021 Ryan’s Wish Foundation Golf Tournament to be held on Aug. 21 at Emerald Greens

by Rachel Hunter

The 2021 Ryan’s Wish Foundation Golf Tournament will be held at Emerald Greens’ 18-hole golf course in Gouverneur on Saturday, August 21, 10 a.m., to raise funds to help those diagnosed with cancer and serious illnesses throughout St. Lawrence, Jefferson, Franklin and Lewis counties.

Dr. Robert Saidel and his wife Rita founded Ryan’s Wish Foundation in memory of their son, who strived to live life to the fullest even as he battled cancer. Ryan Saidel from Gouverneur, NY was diagnosed with neuroblastoma when he was 14 years old and fought the disease for five years before he passed at age 19 on February 7, 2004. During his five-year struggle, Ryan touched the lives of countless people. To those around him, Ryan defined the word courage as he lived his life inspiring others to make the best of each and every day.

A year after Ryan’s death, the Ryan’s Wish Foundation was created to celebrate Ryan’s inspirational life, and is dedicated to helping others who are battling a serious illness “play and live strong.”

Many throughout the North Country community know of someone within the local area who has been helped from the Ryan’s Wish Foundation. The foundation continues to help literally hundreds of people and their families within the North Country. The Ryan’s Wish Foundation (501 (C) (3) nonprofit organization) is created to celebrate the inspirational life of Ryan Saidel. The foundation is dedicated to helping people who are battling a serious illness to “play and live strong.” The Foundation serves people in the tri-county areas of Northern New York: Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence Counties. Funds received from the Foundation can help offset traveling costs and other expenses incurred by individuals and their families during treatment or hospitalization.

The 2021 Ryan’s Wish Foundation Annual Golf Tournament will follow a 4 Team Captain & Crew format. Cost is $60.00 per member or $240 per team. Donations are appreciated. The tournament will be held on Saturday, August 21, 2021 at 10 a.m. at Emerald Greens Golf Course in Gouverneur, New York. To register: Call Emerald Greens at 315-287-4497 or Gary West at 315-955-2101; gwest29@gmail.com.

2021 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair officially opens on Tuesday

by Rachel Hunter

The 2021 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair officially opens on Tuesday, August 3 and runs through Sunday, August 8.With childlike enthusiasm, the Gouverneur community along with the rest of St. Lawrence County is eagerly awaiting the return of the annual county fair. From the 4-H Projects and Livestock Exhibits to the Coleman Bros. midway complete with rides and galore, food vendors, and great entertainers on the grandstand… There’s something for everyone at the 2021 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair!

The anticipation for this county fair has been building since before the cancellation of the 2020 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair due to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. With vaccinations on the rise and the return to “normal” activities, the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Board has spent months planning to truly make it one of the best county fairs in Northern New York.

Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Manager Don Peck of Gouverneur said that signs will be posted at the auto entrance (Rock Island St.) and the pedestrian entrance (East Barney St.) encouraging all those who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated to wear a mask while on the Gouverneur Fairgrounds, in accordance with the CDC and New York State Department of Health Guidelines.

The St. Lawrence County Public Health and the Community Health Center of the North Country (CHCNC) announced this week they would be holding COVID-19 vaccination clinics at the St. Lawrence County Fair, 85 East Barney Street, Gouverneur, NY 13542 at the CHCNC/Public Health Booth (Pfizer for anyone 12 years and older. Johnson & Johnson available while supplies last.) Walk-in only. The clinic will be held on the following dates: Tuesday, August 3rd, 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm; Wednesday, August 4th, 11:00 am - 7:00 pm; Thursday, August 5th, 11:00 am - 6:00 pm; Friday, August 6th, 11:00 am - 6:00 pm; and Saturday, August 7th, 11:00 am - 4:00 pm. Vaccinations are available at local pharmacies. If you or someone you know is homebound and is interested in receiving a COVID-19 vaccine, please call 315-386-2325.

Fair Manager Don Peck added that the Coleman Bros. Shows, Inc. will once again bring many rides and games to the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Midway. Wristbands are available at colemanbrothersshows.com. The 2021 Fair will see the return of traditional fair food vendors, and some new food trucks as well. There is still plenty of room under the grandstand for any vendor who wants to join the fun at the 2021 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair. Just call Fair Manager Don Peck at 315-771-7690 or go online at gouverneurfair.net.

Fair Manager Don Peck also added that tickets for the grandstand shows will be available online at gouverneurfair.net and at the Gouverneur Fair Office, 85 East Barney St., Gouverneur, until the start of fair week. Tickets will also be available at the gate during the fair. The 2021 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Grandstand Stage will feature musical talent and more you will not want to miss!

On Tuesday, August 3, 8 p.m., the opening night concert will feature the award-winning American Country Music band, Lonestar.

Lonestar is an American country music group consisting of Drew Womack (lead vocals, acoustic guitar), Michael Britt (lead guitar, background vocals), Dean Sams (keyboards, acoustic guitar, background vocals), and Keech Rainwater (drums). The group was founded in 1992 by Britt, Sams, Rainwater, lead vocalist Richie McDonald and bass guitarist/vocalist John Rich. Rich exited the band in 1998 and went on to become one-half of the duo Big & Rich. Since his departure, Lonestar has relied alternatingly on session and touring musicians for bass guitar accompaniment. McDonald exited the band in 2007 to record as a solo artist, and was replaced by former McAlyster vocalist Cody Collins before returning in 2011. After leaving the band a second time in 2021, McDonald was replaced by Womack, previously the lead vocalist of Sons of the Desert.

Lonestar has charted more than 20 singles on the Hot Country Songs chart, including 9 that reached No. 1: "No News", "Come Cryin' to Me", "Amazed", "Smile", "What About Now", "Tell Her", "I'm Already There", "My Front Porch Looking In", and "Mr. Mom". "Amazed" also charted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the first country song to do so since "Islands in the Stream" in 1983. "Amazed" and "My Front Porch Looking In" were the top country songs of 1999 and 2003, respectively, on Billboard Year-End. The group has recorded seven albums, one EP, and a greatest hits package for the defunct BNA Records, and one album each for three different independent labels. Three of their albums have been certified platinum or higher by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The band's first two albums were defined by honky-tonk and neotraditionalist country influences, but subsequent albums largely drew from country pop.

The Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Board agreed to turn this concert around, and all are invited to bring chairs as they will be seated on the grass behind the grandstand stage. There is great anticipation for this opening night concert. Tickets are still available online at gouverneurfair.net or through the fair office up until fair week. Tickets will also be available at the gate. For more information, call 315-287-3010.

The grandstand events continue on Wednesday, August 4 for the Firemen’s Parade, 7 PM. The New York Sire Stakes Harness Racing will be held on Thursday, August 5, starting at noon. Local musical talent and more are invited to perform in the Talent Show on Thursday, August 5, 6:30 PM. On Friday, August 6, the Rafter Z Rodeo will be put on two events – one at 2 p.m. and one at 8 p.m. On Saturday, August 7 will be the Hot Farm Pulling Series at 6 p.m. And on Sunday, August 8, at 1 p.m., there will be the one and only Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Demolition Derby.

The Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair will operate under the applicable guidance of CDC and all NYS DOH and local requirements during fair week. Officials say grandstand events may have limited capacity. Pre-Sale Tickets are available through Etix and the Fair Office (up to fair week). Visit gouverneurfair.net for more information. Tickets also available the day of show at the Gate. The Fair Office is now open Monday through Friday, 9:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. For more information, call 315-287-3010.

The 2021 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair will also see the return of free ground acts – the Rosaire’s Racing Pigs (by the NYS Maple Producers Sugar Shack) and the Eudora Farms Petting Zoo (by the Cattle Show Ring).

Fair Manager Peck also told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that much work has gone into preparing the grounds for the 2021 Fair. New work this year included renovating the Nesco Cattle Barn, horse stalls, and so much more. With fair entries already submitted, Fair Manager Peck said over 200 head of top-quality beef and dairy cattle along with sheep, poultry, goats, and more will be exhibited at the 2021 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair on the Gouverneur Fairgrounds.

The 4-H and Open Livestock Show Schedule and more has been announced as follows: On Monday, August 2, the 4-H Horse Show will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. This is a change from the three-day format used in previous years. The rain date for this show will be on Tuesday, August 3. Also on Monday, August 2 will be 4-H Poultry Show in the Sheep Barn at noon. 4-H Poultry will be in place by 11 a.m.

On Tuesday, August 3, the 4-H and Open Beef Show will be held at 9 a.m. in the Cattle Show Ring. The 4-H Dog Show will be held at 9:30 a.m. (immediately following the Beef Show). The 4-H Goat Show will be held at 10:30 a.m. in the Sheep Barn. At 1 p.m., the 4-H and FFA Dairy Judging Contest will be held in the Cattle Show Ring. At 3 p.m., the 4-H and FFA Dairy Fitting Contest will be held in the cattle show ring. The fair officially opens at 4 p.m. The 4-H Club Booth Judging will be held at 5 p.m. As well, the 4-H Rabbit Show will be held at 5 p.m. in the Sheep Barn.

Wednesday, August 4, is 4-H Spirit Day. At 10 a.m., 4-H Dairy Showmanship will be held in the Cattle Show Ring. The FFA Leadsmen Class will immediately follow. At 10 a.m., the FFA Tractor Driving, FFA Tree and Wildlife ID, FFA Field and Forage Contest will be held at the FFA Barn. At 1:30 p.m., the 4-H and Open Sheep Show will be held in the Sheep Barn. The 4-H Sheep Lead Event will be held at the grandstand, starting at 6:30 p.m., just before the Firemen’s Parade at 7 p.m.

On Thursday, August 5, the 4-H and Open Holstein, Gurnsey and Milking Shorthorn Show will be held at 9 a.m. in the Cattle Show Ring.

On Friday, August 6, the 4-H and Open Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, and Jersey Cattle Show will commence at 9 a.m. in the Cattle Show Ring.

On Saturday, August 7, the FFA building will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. for daily activities and demonstrations. The 4-H Cat Show will be held in the 4-H Youth Building at 2 p.m.

On Sunday, August 8, the release of 4-H exhibits and livestock will be from 3 to 4 p.m.

With lots to see and do at the 2021 Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair, make plans today to attend from opening day, Tuesday, August 3 through Sunday, August 8! For tickets and more information, visit gouverneurfair.net. See you at the fair!

Gouverneur Recreation Department starts Summer Youth Recreation Program

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Recreation Department commenced it Summer Youth Recreation Program on Monday, July 12. The weekly schedule featuring Park Palooza Game Fun at Riverview Recreational Park in Gouverneur, trips to the beach at Sylvia Lake. Other activities throughout the week include STEM fun, active play, and trips to Regal Cinema Movie Express and Thompson Park for Swim and Splash fun.

The first guest visitor was scheduled to be the Gouverneur Volunteer Fire Department on Thursday, July 15. Other guest speakers scheduled are from the Gouverneur Police Department (Thursday, July 22) and Gouverneur Rescue Squad (Thursday, July 29).

In addition, the Gouverneur Recreation Department will feature Senior Citizen Bingo Socials weekly on Fridays, 10 a.m. to noon, at the Gouverneur Recreation Center, located at the corner of Clinton St. and Trinity Ave. On Friday, July 30, the Gouverneur Recreation Department will also hold a senior citizen luncheon following the bingo social.

Future updates will be featured in an upcoming edition of the Gouverneur Tribune Press. For more information, call 315-287-0524.

Reminder: Sign-up local youth to participate to Gouverneur Recreation Department’s 2021 Summer Youth Program

by Rachel Hunter

Today is the last day to complete advance registration for the Gouverneur Recreation Department’s 2021 Summer Youth Program, which will be held July 12 to August 12, 2021. Advanced sign-up opportunities will be available today (Friday, July 8) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Gouverneur Recreation Center, at the corner of Clinton St. and Trinity Ave., in Gouverneur.

“We are encouraging families to drop by, say hi, and sign up for summer!” Director Canell said.

The Gouverneur Recreation Department’s 2021 Summer Youth Program will be based from Riverview Recreational Park in Gouverneur this year. The following weekly schedule of events have been planned:

The Summer Youth Program will feature “Morning Park Palooza” activities on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday mornings, 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. There will be supervised park play groups for ages 4 to 6, 7 to 10, and 11 to 14. The youth program will feature active play, theme days, arts and crafts, and there will be featured guests.

Afternoon swimming at Sylvia Lake in the Town of Fowler on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons for ages 7 to 14, 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

The Gouverneur Recreational Department will also be sponsoring outings for youth ages 7 to 14 on Wednesdays to Regal Cinema in Watertown and the Thompson Park Pool and Splash Pad.

“The recreation staff is excited to return and are eagerly preparing,” Director Casey Canell told the Gouverneur Tribune Press. He said that during bus outings, all youth as well as Recreation staff and volunteers will be required to wear a mask. Masks are not required, but welcome while youth engage in outdoor play and swimming. For more information, contact Recreation Director Casey Canell at 315-287-0524.

The Gouverneur Recreation Center also announced that the Gouverneur Recreation Department’s Senior Citizen program will begin Friday, July 16 and continue every Friday morning at the Gouverneur Recreation Center, located at the corner of Clinton St. and Trinity Ave., Gouverneur. “We will be hosting bingo and coffee socials,” Director Canell said. “All senior citizens are welcome.” For more information, contact Recreation Director Casey Canell at 315-287-0524.

More information about Gouverneur Recreation Department’s Summer Youth Program will be made available in upcoming editions of the Gouverneur Tribune Press.

Town of Gouverneur Council votes to donate to Gouverneur Chamber’s Light Up the Village and Town fundraising campaign

by Rachel Hunter

The Town of Gouverneur Council at its economic development meeting on Friday, June 25 unanimously voted to donate $500 toward the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce’s “Light Up the Village and Town” fundraising campaign.

The Gouverneur Area Chamber of Commerce has commenced its “Light Up Our Village and Town” fundraising campaign to raise enough funding for new lit snowflake decorations to be installed in the Gouverneur Village Park.

Due to the state of disrepair, the worn-out lit snowflake decorations that are on the village lampposts in the Gouverneur Village Park each holiday season are no longer able to be installed. Reportedly, the lit decorations were first installed in the Gouverneur Village Park in 1975 and have had minor repairs ever since. Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce President CJ Fitzgerald told the Gouverneur community in December of 2020 that the Gouverneur Chamber would be seeking monetary donations to fund replacements.

The Chamber hopes that, with enough community support, there will be enough funds to purchase lit snowflake decorations that can be installed down Main St. in Gouverneur. The entire Gouverneur community is invited to participate in the fundraising campaign – businesses, residents, civic organizations and more are invited to join the effort to help fund this project. Donations can never be too big or too small… Give what you can afford as every dollar will be appreciated.

The Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce has announced that there are sponsorship opportunities available. For a donation of $1,000 you can sponsor a light pole with a new snowflake in the business district for $1,000. A sponsorship plaque will be put on the pole with the sponsor name(s). Co-sponsorship opportunities are also available. All donations can be made online at www.gouverneurchamber.net, or mailed to the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce Office at 53 Herm Towne Road, Gouverneur, NY 13642 c/o Executive Director Donna Besaw.

As of press time this week, Executive Director Donna Besaw announced that businesses, organizations and individuals in the Gouverneur community have already donated a total of $16,775, which has been deposited in the Chamber’s account for the purpose of replacing the decorations. All donors have been listed on the Gouverneur Chamber website, gouverneurchamber.net.

Much gratitude is extended in advance to Gouverneur community for their generosity. More information and sponsorship reports from the Gouverneur Chamber’s “Light Up Our Village and Town” fundraising campaign will be featured in upcoming edition of the Gouverneur Tribune Press. For more information, visit gouverneurchamber.net.

No Fourth of July Fireworks Display in Gouverneur this year

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Fire Department recently announced that it has decided not to host a Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular in 2021 due to COVID-19 related restrictions.

The announcement read as follows: “We have had a lot of inquiries about hosting our 4th of July fireworks. Unfortunately with the unknown of the capacity rules, we elected not to have them again this year. We have to order the show three months in advance, so the decision was made last month not to host the show. Financially, we cannot put the display on unless we fill the fairgrounds to max capacity. With the restrictions in place, we would not be able to do that. We are looking forward to when we can host them again. When that time comes, you have our promise that we will make up for the last two years with the biggest display we have ever hosted! Until then, have a safe summer and we thank everyone for your support!”

GCSD Board of Education meeting open to public on June 28

The June 28, 2021 regular meeting of the Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education will be held in the High School Auditorium. This meeting will be open to the public and will begin at 5:30 PM.  The meeting will include a retirement recognition for Superintendent Lauren French. Current social distancing protocols and the use of masks while inside the school building will apply.