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Sectional results and much more » pg. 12 Published By Denton Publications Inc.
March 14, 2020
Burgh/North Countryman
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• EDITION •
Firefighter union, city agree on contract; council approved
Health facilities changing policies for Coronavirus CVPH says those worried about symptoms should call before seeking treatment as facilities in the area also change visitation procedures By Andrea VanValkenburg STAFF WRITER
PLATTSBURGH | As the Coronavirus now spreads through New York, local health-care facilities are changing protocols and offering advice to those facing COVID-19-like symptoms. In accordance with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the University of Vermont Health Network-Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) is urging anyone who is mildly ill and believes
Locally-sourced food accessible in city gym
A variety of vegetable, dairy and beef farmers, along with area apple, maple and beverage producers, gathered at the City of Plattsburgh gym for Cornell Cooperative Extension’s annual “Food from the Farm” event on a recent Saturday afternoon. Featuring three local restaurants and 20+ vendors from throughout the North Country, individuals enjoyed samples of recipes, baked goods and produce amid live music and participating non-profits and event sponsors.
Schwartz, Mayor Read and F.D. Chief Lawliss announce agreement to improve fire response, staffing concerns
Photo by Alina Walentowicz
they may have COVID-19 symptoms to call their health-care provider or the hospital Emergency Department before seeking treatment. See VIRUS POLICIES » pg. 11
County health department educates on infection management
Pictured left: At a recent press conference held at the City of Plattsburgh, a Clinton County Health Department (CCHD) representative facilitated the distribution of educational information concerning infection management as a precaution, should any local cases of COVID-19 emerge in or around the city. CCHD’s Director of Health Care Services Erin Streiff reiterated basic hygiene measures all community members should be taking, such as frequent hand-washing for the minimum duration of 20 seconds, using hand sanitizer with 60 percent alcohol content or above, avoiding touching one’s face and eyes and remaining home from work or school when one presents cold- or flu-like symptoms. Though the virus in question has not emerged locally at this time, vulnerable populations remain the highest concern, such as elderly folks residing in nursing homes or assisted living centers. Should any local cases be identified, the city has a consistent emergency response plan in line with the potential for widespread illness-related concerns. Photo by Alina Walentowicz
City of Plattsburgh Fire Chief Lawliss (pictured) praises dedicated union negotiation team for approved agreement; hopes for continued city, fire and union collaboration. Photo by Alina Walentowicz
By Alina Walentowicz STAFF WRITER
PLATTSBURGH | At one of the weekly press conferences recently held at Plattsburgh City Hall, Mayor Colin Read (D) was joined by local firefighter union association President Jamie Schwartz and Fire Department Chief Scott Lawliss to announce awaited updates to the firefighters union contract. See FIREFIGHTERS CONTRACT » pg. 9
Police: Victim recovering Regional business leaders, from city stabbing lawmakers talk cell coverage Donald Houghtaling is facing a slew of charges in connection with the violent Sunday morning melee
By Andrea VanValkenburg STAFF WRITER
PLATTSBURGH | A near-deadly stabbing has left one man with serious injuries and another facing a slew of charges. See STABBING » pg. 10
Historic circa-1833 Peru church to undergo repair Donations sought to offset cost for repairs By Andrea VanValkenburg STAFF WRITER
PERU | With grant funding and community support, the Peru Community Church will soon get some much needed repair. See CHURCH REPAIRS » pg. 14
By Alina Walentowicz STAFF WRITER
PLATTSBURGH | Priority business issues identified in line with results from the North Country Chamber of Commerce’s recent Annual Issue Survey includes “state action to address gaps in cell coverage throughout rural regions of New York.” At the chamber’s recent legislative breakfast, Sen. Betty Little (R) and other area officials challenged the assertion that 100 percent cell coverage exists throughout the state. “Everybody thinks we have 100 percent coverage, and I don’t know who figures that out because they’re wrong,” Little said at the event, noting this
Area lawmakers, including Assemblyman Billy Jones (D), discussed area cell coverage at the chamber’s recent legislative breakfast. Photo by Alina Walentowicz
as particularly challenging when considering the Adirondacks as a destination for visitors. See CELL COVERAGE » pg. 7
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Business community considers state action on cell connectivity a top 2020 issue