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Saturday,ÊD ecemberÊ26,Ê2015
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In SPORTS | pg. 10
All Valley teams inside
Joel Morris, Hannah Whitney named captains
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In OPINION | pg. 4
Our selfless North Country
Ordinary people doing extraordinary things
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In OTHER | pg. 3
Stuffing food shelves Volunteers step to the plate
Mild weather presents mixed verdict Heat miser pays visit to North Country, melting dreams
threatened to upend the tourism industry in what’s traditionally one of the busiest times of year. “The weather outside is frightful,” Regional Office for Sustainable Tourism CEO James McKenna told Essex County lawmakers on Monday. With the weather patterns expected to continue well into the holiday season, tourism officials have assembled a task force to ensure travelers don’t get cold feet and cancel scheduled trips. “There’s going to be a time period where they’re going to
HanginÕ Ê Tough
>> Story Continued | pg. 16
The extended stretch of spring-like weather is expected to last for another week, say meteorologists. Andrea Lang, a professor of atmospheric science at SUNY Albany, said the trend can be attributed to two factors: the polar vortex is one of the strongest on record, keeping cold air By Pete DeMola trapped at the poles. And in the tropics, the El Nino is among pete@suncommunitynews.com the three strongest since the 1950s, which typically leads to mild temperatures in the northeastern US. “Those two things together are giving us some exceptional ELIZABETHTOWN — What happens when you expect a winter wonderland, and just one week from Christmas, it’s warmth this time of year,” said Lang. more Miami than the North Pole? It’s a development that has baffled the North Country and
For Stec, it’s high energy at low key town halls
By Pete DeMola
pete@suncommunitynews.com
Local mechanic says business expansion key to survival
WESTPORT — Winter is tough in the North Country. But the next 30 days are likely to be more harrowing than usual for Bobby McGee, a local mechanic awaiting a decision by the town planning board that will allow him to grow his business. Pete McGee said the expansion is critical for DeMola the future of his operation, which started Editor as a small engine repair shop, but has since morphed into a towing operation that employs 12 people. The mechanic has two plots of land on Lake Shore Road, which is zoned residential. The current shop operates under a special permit. Another will need to be granted to allow for the expansion, which McGee envisions will contain a permanent carport-type structure to house tools and other equipment. McGee hopes the expansion will allow him to take on more repair work, a measure that will aid in the sustainability of his business, which right now, is touch and go. McGee has already lined up a contract with the state police
McGee’s Towing and Recovery in Westport is seeking to grow their business into a neighboring parcel. To do so, the business requires a special permit from the town’s zoning board. Owner Bobby McGee (center) says the expansion is critical to the company’s survival. Photo by Pete DeMola
to work on their fleet. “I’m not here to make a mess,” said McGee. “I’m just trying to do business. You look at Main Street and 95 percent of businesses are for sale.” McGee said he aims to keep the 2.8 acre lot tidy and clean. On Wednesday, McGee made his case to the planning board at a public hearing. The board systematically went through several checklists, including state-mandated environmental requirements, as they considered his application. Earlier site visits by planning board members revealed no >> Story Continued | pg. 18
KEENE — For the past week, Assemblyman Dan Stec has been holding a series of town hall meetings across the district. The freewheeling sessions, which the Queensbury rep describes as “low key” gatherings, are a dose of equal parts policy briefs and what the assemblyman frequently refers to as “inside baseball.” On Wednesday, he talked shop with about a dozen residents in Keene. Stec hit them with his big three issues — Pension forfeiture, the minimum wage and the region’s ongoing infrastructure needs, including broadband, which he called the “water and sewer” of the modern era. Many town halls from politicos are sanitized and varnished, talking points and platitudes. Then there’s Stec, who isn’t afraid to lambast Albany and shine some light into the state’s Byzantine structure of governance. Stec, who has positioned himself as the state legislature’s leading voice on stripping corrupted officials of their pensions, theorized something happened when three men went into a room on March 31, and hours later, the assembly opted against voting on their pension forfeiture bill. >> Story Continued | pg. 11
2 | December 26, 2015 • The Valley News Sun (CV)
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E-town hospital recognized by NICHE practices. Elizabethtown Community Hospital is one of 600 hospitals and health care facilities throughout North America to receive this designation; it is the only NICHE-designated hospital north of the Albany region in New York state. NICHE member hospitals commit to specific principles to achieve a high level of care for older adults. The principles relate to ensuring that the needs of older patients are recognized and understood by everyone taking part in their care, of having a structure of being patient-centered in its approach to care, and the ability of nurses at the hospital to make decisions and mobilize resources quickly whenever required. According to Victoria Savage, RN, manager of the hospital’s inpatient nursing unit, patients and their families can expect that the hospital places significant importance on ensuring that patients’ needs are met – and many of the specific principles endorsed by NICHE have been in place for a long time. “The specific approaches to our care of older patients are something that we have had in place for many years,” she
explained. “The NICHE program has recently assessed our hospital’s approach and designated our hospital as a NICHE hospital. It is an honor to have our work celebrated and endorsed by the NICHE program.” “Elizabethtown Community Hospital shows a tremendous commitment to meet the most critical challenge of our times - quality care of older adults,” said Barbara Bricoli, MPA, executive director - NICHE. “The hospital’s dedication to drive continuous improvement processes and enhance care marks it as a leader in the field.” Strategies that the hospital already had in place, that are endorsed by the NICHE program, included interventions to reduce falls, pain management for older patients as they react differently to many medications, and various strategies for managing and interacting with those who exhibit signs of dementia. Other specific strategies at the hospital that support the care of older patients includes promoting communication among nurses, pharmacists, therapy staff and patient families; along with proper discharge planning to ensure that the elderly patients have support when transitioning out of the hospital and back into their home, a family member’s home or a nursing home. “Our focus at Elizabethtown Community Hospital is to find ways to continually improve outcomes for our patients,” said Heather Reynolds, director of quality at the hospital. “Our team provides extraordinary care to each of our patients, and is able to meet the unique needs of each age group.” Julie Tromblee, chief nursing officer explained that positive patient outcomes – through the inpatient physical therapy program or care received in the nursing unit during an illness – are what the hospital strives for with each patient.
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ELIZABETHTOWN — University of Vermont Health Network – Elizabethtown Community Hospital has been recognized by the Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders (NICHE) program as a facility providing quality care to older adults. NICHE has recognized the hospital for excelling in its ability to meet the unique needs of its older patients. Geriatric issues are an incredibly important aspect of healthcare, especially considering that the population of upstate New York and Essex County is becoming older; people are also living longer. NICHE is a nurse-driven program designed to help hospitals improve the care of older adults through evidence-based
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The Valley News Sun • December 26, 2015 | 3
Volunteers ensure local food shelves are packed for the holidays By Pete DeMola
pete@suncommunitynews.com
ELIZABETHTOWN — Volunteers in dozens of communities have mobilized to ensure not a single family will go to bed hungry this holiday season. Food shelves across the tri-county region are reporting sizable hauls of gifted items and monetary donations. The community food shelf in Elizabethtown is in good shape, reported director Marilyn Jordan, owing to a group of regular donors. It’s because of this generosity — including 25 turkeys donated by Elizabethtown Community Hospital staffers, fresh produce offered at discount rates from local farmers and bread from Dogwood Bakery — that they’re able to assemble 50 gift baskets, which will be distributed on Monday. The shelf serves 400 families from New Russia, Elizabethtown, Westport, Wadhams, Lewis and Essex. “We feel like we’ve been very, very fortunate,” said Jordan. “We’re able to take care of a lot of people at Christmas.” Additional help has come from an unlikely source: Inmates from Moriah Shock who help unload and shelf stock alongside other volunteers, including those who ferry items from Plattsburgh. “That’s a huge help,” Jordan said. The Mooers Wesleyan Food Pantry is ground zero for families across northern Clinton County. They typically serve 160 families a month. “We’ve been very busy since Thanksgiving,” said Luanne Willette, the pantry’s co-director, adding volunteers are always welcome. St. Augustine’s Church Soup Kitchen, in Peru, serves 100
people each week and also relies heavily on donations, including those from corporate sponsors. While closed for Christmas Day, they plan on serving a holiday meal a few days beforehand. While the menu consists of items donated that week, the organization is seeking funds for a walk-in freezer and cooler to allow for longer preservation of donated perishables. The Ticonderoga Food Pantry, too, is aiding 80 local families. “Every little while, we find people who have no food, which is so sad,” said Margaret Beuerlein, the pantry’s director. Students from AuSable Valley Central donated 1,326 items as part of their Thanksgiving drive. Area businesses chipped in $1,000 in cash and $545 in gift cards, with proceeds split between food shelves in Black Brook, Chesterfield, AuSable and Jay. The support has been overwhelming, said Jason Castine, the teacher who spearheaded the drive, now in its second year, after being inspired by his students. “It’s great seeing a staff, students, and local businesses that care so much about helping others in the community,” Castine said. Carol Hackel, of Jay, distributed some of these items to 13 local families before Thanksgiving. Hackel recounted the tears and joy of the recipients, who were caught unaware by the visits of these local guardian angels. “See, that’s what this is all about,” she said. Items are still available for local families in need of a Christmas bump. Many pantries supplement donations with inventory purchased from the Northeastern Regional Food Bank, which sells bulk items at a reduced cost. The North Country has been particularly affected by the sustained economic downturn. The total number of meals provided to regional banks has risen by nearly 20 percent in the past six years, with total food
poundage increasing about 40 percent, said Susan Lindtner, the agency’s director. The bank provided 2 million more pounds of food this year than the last. “That’s a pretty significant increase over last year,” Lindtner said. Lindtner said this is likely attributed to the recent closing of several large employers in Franklin County. Seasonal employment trends also play a role, she said. At Saranac Lake’s First Presbyterian Church, the donation basket is packed and is ready to be delivered to the Saranac Lake Interfaith Food Pantry, which funnels the items back out to the community. In addition, the Ecumenical Council of Saranac Lake, a group of local churches, assembles holiday food boxes for 150 families. They include healthy snacks for kids on holiday recess who may lack those options at home. Every week, the pantry serves approximately 15 to 25 families in the Saranac Lake School District — even more at the end of the month when SNAP benefits run out, said Ann Cooney, a volunteer. “We’re doing really really well from generosity of people in the area,” said Cooney. “We’re overwhelmed with appreciation.” Reporter Teah Dowling contributed to this report.
4 | December 26, 2015 • The Valley News Sun (CV)
OPINIONS
Behind the Pressline
OurÊ goalÊ atÊ SunÊ CommunityÊ NewsÊ isÊ toÊ publishÊ accurate,Ê usefulÊ andÊ timelyÊ informationÊ inÊ ourÊ newspapers,Ê newsÊ products,Ê shoppingÊ guides,Ê vacationÊ guides,Ê andÊ otherÊ specialtyÊ publicationsÊ forÊ theÊ benefit of our readers and advertisers. WeÊ valueÊ yourÊ commentsÊ andÊ suggestionsÊ concerningÊ allÊ aspectsÊ of Ê thisÊ publication.
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OPINION
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Warm Wishes
his time of year we all think about others and putting a smile on the faces of those we love. Many feel even happier when they can create that smile for a perfect stranger. Giving and caring are the hallmarks of our nation. Despite the often combative and competitive nature of people in the media spotlight these days, beneath the visible crust is a nation of everyday people, going about their lives doing the small things that make our nation special. The holidays are all about hope, faith and love. It’s a time for giving and receiving, a time for friends and family and it’s a time to remember the true meaning of the season. For many it’s about how a small child born in a manger over 2000 years ago changed our world forever with a simple message. We hear a lot these days about apostasy, which is the term given to people turning away from any religious affiliation. For years we’ve heard the cry about the commercialization of Christmas and the effect it was having on the reason for season. The reality of life and religion can not be classified by terms or affiliations. Jesus made it very clear. Religion is all about how we care for each other and how we take care of those who are in need. He didn’t care what you called yourself, your state of life nor your position in society. In his eyes, all were equal. Religion is more about what’s in your heart and how you conduct your life which is why this is a season for all men and women of goodwill; Christian, Jewish, Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim, Atheist or Agnostic. Practicing an organized faith works perfectly for many Americans, but at the end of time we will all be judged not by our affiliation but by how we conducted our affairs here on earth. Gifting friends and family and treating them with respect throughout the year is important but how we choose to treat and respect the perfect strangers we come across says more about who you are than anything else you do. So let’s not get too caught up in all the crazy stuff we hear flying around in the media pitting one against another. We need to stay focused on making our world a better place every minute of every day. If we do that, everything else will take care of itself. On behalf of the Sun Community News & Printing staff and family I would like to wish you, your family and your community a very joyous and safe holiday, a prosperous new year and wish that we are all granted lives of joy, peace and caring. May God bless us all. Dan Alexander is CEO of Sun Community News
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Publisher ............................................................................................Daniel E. Alexander Associate Publisher ............................................................................................ Ed Coats Operations Manager ............................................................................... William Coats General Manager Central...................................................Daniel E. Alexander, Jr. Managing Editor ...........................................................................................John Gereau General Manager North ................................................................. Ashley Alexander General Manager South .................................................................Scarlette Merfeld
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EDITORIALS
What makes our tiny communities so special is you
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very year is busy. This has been no exception. Alongside the heavy-duty events that have recalibrated our national discourse — fear is in, economic concerns have taken a backseat — several local stories have emerged that will make likely make 2015 more memorable for historians. Two killers escaped from Dannemora, leading to a three-week manhunt that held the region captive and brought the nation’s attention to our otherwise sedate doorstep. We’ve seen the shocking fall of state and local officials, including those who have held hallowed roles right here in our very own backyards. Our local athletic teams came close to statewide victory, with most falling heartbreakingly short. Controversy swirled as a college attempted to rename themselves after a donor, giving birth to another round of impassioned discussion that has come to characterize North Country discourse. The seeds have been planted for sweeping statewide legislation, including minimum wage reform. Voters headed to the polls in local elections, dashing dreams and giving birth to others. Several legendary local leaders have retired. One village has dissolved and another has voted to follow in its footsteps. Fires have reshaped neighborhoods. Businesses have come and gone. Local emergency squads have pulled themselves back from the brink. And the tax cap continues to reshape life here in a place where life has never come easy. And of course, this weekly newspaper has seen our own rebranding, our own sun rising, casting rays over this dynamic, always-interesting landscape. Perhaps this is all just business as usual: The days creep by and some changes appear to be more sweeping than others. But the biggest stories this year are yours. We’re always amazed at the North Country’s penchant for helping others — Ordinary people doing extraordinary things. You. We’re inspired and moved by your selfless efforts. This year, we’ve witnessed schools being reborn from ash in Ticonderoga. We’ve watched as committed volunteers have raised barns from once-fallow fields in Essex; constructed community pavilions from donations in Wadhams; reignited dreams in Newcomb and created civic institutions from the recesses of their memories in Keeseville. You stepped to the plate to salvage a field trip to Washington, D.C. after a roaming charlatan raided your trust. We sat back in awe as teachers and student associations stuck up for alienated students. You’ve rallied for teachers across the region and walked alongside an educator from Saranac Lake to Albany in her quest to remedy injustice. You have filled food pantries, adopted children, started charitable programs, helped drug-addicted prison inmates, filled backpacks with food and stepped forward to fill vacant positions in all manner of civic organizations, from fire departments to ambulance squads. You have raised thousands for local families in need, constructed libraries in neglected communities and breathed technicolor into sleepy locales by way of regular cultural series. As public officials, you’ve have made it rain for your constituents. Through your efforts, funds have come in to raise the quality of life for those who
haven’t always had a voice. Communities have been linked in, wired and drawn closer to the world. We’ve slimmed down and have been enticed into making healthier lifestyle choices. As religious leaders, you’ve guided your flocks through these turbulent times. You’ve brought us closer to a moral center through both word and deed, including selfless acts like offering tickets to Pope Francis during his historic trip to the US. As veterans, you have humbly recounted stories from the battlefield, from the fronts of Europe to the scorched earth of Vietnam, while asking for nothing in return. And as just regular folks, you’ve inspired us. It’s been an interesting year. But only because of you. Thanks and happy holidays. See you in 2016. The Sun Community News Editorial Board is comprised of Dan Alexander, John Gereau, Pete DeMola and Keith Lobdell. We value your opinion and want to hear from you. Drop us a line on our new Facebook page, follow us on Twitter, or email us at johng@suncommunitynews.com.
Elizabethtown-Lewis Central School student Emmalee Turner
OPINION POLICY
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The Valley News Sun • December 26, 2015 | 5
LETTERS
ItÕ sÊ coolÊ today... To the editor: Honoring a 20-year-old promise (or was it a dare?) to perform in Harold Pinter’s first play, “The Room,” I’ve spent much of November in The Wooster Group’s Performing Garage in New York City, longing for home. Each week the “Leaving Adirondack Park” sign in Queensbury gets me down. I signed on to the project last year, as a commitment to the experimental theater company I was part of for many years. So here I am, writing the Upper Jay Art Center’s end-of year fundraising appeal from a noisy railroad flat on the Lower East Side. If I were younger, this would be really cool. But I’m not younger. Cool today, for my money, is a sweaty crowd dancing to a 13-piece Latin orchestra at The Recovery Lounge. (Thank you, Peg Wilson and Bob Andrews.) Cool is Maeve and Zoe Brammer bravely joining the cast of 16 in Caryl Churchill’s play “Love and Information,” directed by James Coleman. Cool is watching Liza Amirault growing up each year behind the microphone at the January Jams. And major cool is running into my pal Frank Owen at Stewart’s on a sunny day, laughing about a brief, brief-less appearance as King Lear I have been begging him to make at the Lounge someday (another dare). I am pleased to be using the phrase “10th anniversary” for the last time. It’s been a banner year, starting with grilled cheese sandwiches, beer, and Peter Landau’s brilliant public audition as a stubborn opossum. Thank you to everyone who participated in our 10th anniversary fundraising campaign-to those who gave, those who came, and those who gave again. It never stops, this asking for help. Think of it as a gift to the community. Your way to support the place where we gather to celebrate, relax and recover. That would be cool. Scott Renderer Artistic Director Upper Jay
BusinessesÊ makeÊ communityÊ fundraiserÊ aÊ success! To the editor: The Msgr. A.M. Gilbert Council 6136, Knights of Columbus wishes to thank all who helped in any way to make our recent community fundraiser a success. The proceeds from this function will help us to support our charitable programs throughout the year. We are grateful to all who attended and participated. Likewise, we would like to thank K of C members and their wives, the Ladies Auxiliary and other family members for their time and talent in assisting with this event. Special thanks to the following patrons for their generous support: The Golub Corporation (Price Chopper), R L Vallee Inc. (Irving/Almoto’s/Maplefields), Dragoon’s Farm Equipment, Church Oil Co., D.S. Specialties, JCS Mathews Corporation, Kavanaugh Reality (Joey Trombley), Hair Creations (Lisa Suprenant), Jim Rabideau Maple, Pizza Hut (Rte 3 Plattsburgh), Cornerstone Drug & Gifts, Supernaw Construction, NAPA (Ellenburg), Cindy’s Country Store, Rene’s Repair & True Value (Chazy), Border Press, Sample Brothers Maple Products, Kinney Drugs (Champlain), Ace Hardware, Bedard’s Auto, Mooers Forks Sheet Metal, Bourdeau Brothers, G.R.C. Beverages, Pine Grove Auto, Community Bank (Champlain), Varin’s Country Market & Deli, Ross Funeral Home and Coca Cola (Malone). Also, Riley Ford, Viau Meats (Hemmingford QC), Hamilton Funeral Home, LaBarge Insurance Agency, LES Farm Sales, Chazy Orchards, M & S Auto Body, Lowe’s Home Improvement, Hong Kong Jade Buffet, Della Toyota, Applebees, Sam’s Club, Sample Lumber, Auto Zone, Border View Grocery & Subway, Begore’s Supply, Dominic’s Hardware (Ellenburg), Dick’s Country Store & Music Oasis, Nephew’s Liquor & Wine, Ray’s Appliance Sales & Service, Perras Garage, Woodmen Of The World (Tim Gonyo), Plattsburgh Distributing, Tedford’s Garage, The Wooden Goose, Parker’s Chevy, Sandi’s Kountry Kitchen, Bee Line Logistics, Five guys, Bushey’s Auto Yando’s Big M, Plattsburgh Ford and Pepsi Cola (Keeseville). Orville Pratt Treasurer
QuitÊ smokingÊ forÊ NewÊ YearÕ s To the editor: Thinking About Quitting for the New Year? If you are a smoker thinking about quitting for the New Year, here are a few things you can do to before New Year’s Day to increase your chances of quitting for good. 1) Talk to your doctor or counselor – many North Country providers have made treating tobacco dependence a priority and are ready to help you be successful. 2) Ask about medications that can help – using medication can double your chances of becoming a former smoker. Even if you’ve tried a medication before and think it didn’t work, talk to your doctor about it anyway. There may be new options you can try. 3) Call the NYS Smokers’ Quitline at 866-NY-Quits – you’ll be able to talk to a cessation counselor who can help you make a plan, plus you may be eligible for a free 2-week supply of the nicotine patch. 4) Visit BecomeAnEX.org – this is a great website that can help you prepare to “become an ex.” 5) Identify your triggers and have a plan for dealing with those when your quit day arrives - each time you light up a cigarette, notice how you are feeling and what’s happening around you. What time is it? How strong is the urge? Write it down. After a couple of days, review what you have written and think about what you will do instead, starting New Year’s Day, when those moments or scenarios arise.
6) Tell family and friends about your resolution – find the people who will be supportive, and make a plan for being around people who may trigger an urge to smoke. Whether you decide to quit for New Year’s, or another day, remember that quitting for good is tough, but very possible with some planning, medication and support. Ann Morgan, project coordinator North Country Healthy Heart Network Saranac Lake
GratitudeÊ goesÊ toÊ theÊ wholeÊ community To the editor: We cannot begin to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated in The Magic of Christmas in Essex this year. We had such a wonderful turnout from start to finish and it’s because of so many people who pitched in to make it a worthwhile and festive event. We would like to acknowledge the following for their efforts: all of the visiting vendors and downtown Essex businesses (Adirondack Art Association, Pink Pig Antiques and Café, Essex Ice Cream Café, Neighborhood Nest, Lake Champlain Yoga & Wellness, ReNew, the Cupola House, College for Every Student, Essex Inn, Essex Community Church and the Belden Noble Library) for being open and for decorating, a huge thank you to Jay and Sarah White for all they did to make this event possible, Susan Hughes and the Pleasant Valley Chorale for their beautiful music, Tom and Mary Ann Mangano for their PR help, Colleen and Jim VanHoven, Drew Reithel of the Willsboro Diner for preparing the pancake breakfast, the members of the Essex F&A Masons and Ron Jackson, Frank Wahls and the Essex Volunteer Fire Department for all of their support, the Essex Beautification Committee and Boquet Valley Blooms for the festive decorations and greenery, Norma Goff and the members of the Essex Community Church, Hillary Stransky, Emily Phillips and the members of Essex Initiatives, Steven Kellogg for sharing his imagination and creativity with us, Supervisor Gardner, Cathy DeWolff, Bradley French and the Essex DPW for procuring and installing the permanent Town tree, Ted and Cathy Taylor of Taylor Tree Care for finding just the right Christmas tree, Jan and John Fortune for hundreds of cookies and delicious cocoa, Katie Shepard, George Davis and Donna Sonnet for helping get the word out, Pat Burnes, Sharon Boisen, Emma Paladino, Debbie Alterie, Jodi Browning, Deb and Fred Schrodt of Pink Pig Antiques and Café and Tom Duca for their extra efforts, the staff of CFES (Tara, Kristina and Chelsea) for helping organize the Reindeer Run, Michelle Maron of Lake Champlain Yoga & Wellness and Rick and Karen Dalton of College for Every Student for opening their businesses to house our vendors and finally, Santa and Mrs. Claus for taking time out of their busy schedule to be with the children. We thank everyone for coming to Essex to help celebrate the Christmas season and look forward to seeing you next year. Ken Hughes and Susie Smith Co-organizers, Christmas in Essex
WeÊ stuffed-a-bus!! To the editor: Many thanks to everyone who supported our efforts to support the Ticonderoga Food Pantry Saturday, Dec. 5, at the Ticonderoga Walmart store. Whether you purchased goods to help stock the shelves of the food pantry or if you made a cash donation, your support is very much appreciated. Thank you for your generosity, especially now during the holiday season. Thanks to your support, we were able to fill a full-size school bus with food for the food pantry. In addition, we were able to collect $920 in cash donations, also for the food pantry. We never cease to be amazed by the generosity of the citizens of our community. A special “thank you” goes out to Alex Smith and Jay Wells, the faculty advisors who organized this event. They reserved the school bus and organized the student volunteers who handed out flyers at Walmart and encouraged shoppers to help support the food pantry. Last, but most certainly not least, many thanks to all of the student volunteers who took time away from their Saturday to come out and help everyone to stuff-the-bus. John Bartlett Ticonderoga Kiwanis
VoiceYourOpinion Sun Community News welcomes letters to the editor. • Letters can be sent to its offices, 14 Hand Avenue, PO Box 338, Elizabethtown, 12932 • Or e-mailed to johng@suncommunitynews • Letters can also be submitted online at www.suncommunitynews.com Letters should not exceed 400 words and must be signed and include a telephone number for verification. Sun Community News reserves the right to edit letters for length and/or content. Letters deemed inappropriate will be rejected. Endorsement letters for announced political candidates are not accepted and are considered paid advertisements.
COMMENTARY
Little Bits Wind-up toys Gordie Little
Columnist
H
as anyone ever said, “You’re really wound up today”? It happens. It’s that time of year when you’d like to just crawl under the Christmas tree and take a nap. We’re supposed to be joyful, but the world is in such a state of being wound up and messed up, that it’s not so easy. I’ll try to lighten it up a bit. Unwind. Relax. Count your blessings, one by one, to quote a line from a great song. Travel back in time, if you will, to far less hectic days when toys didn’t have batteries. Yes, there was a time when you didn’t have to worry whether you had enough double A’s or triple A’s or regulars or lithiums or whatever. Remember when the best toy under the tree was mechanical with a key sticking out? I do. The best toy I ever had was the only toy I got one year, because that’s the way it was back then. It was a wind up tank--a replica of the famous Sherman tank. It was awesome. My tank had rubber treads. You turned the key until it couldn’t turn any more. There was a lever you pushed to start it up. It could climb over mountains of books. It could move up a slope so steep, it would finally tip over. Inside was a clockwork motor tough enough to withstand the fat hands of little Gordie Little. We would put the cat in a tiny wagon and hook it up to the tank which would tow it across the floor as long as the long-suffering kitty would sit still. What fun. How long has it been since you wound up anything but yourself? For me, it’s only been a few days. My weekly ritual includes winding my clocks and there are many. Kaye or I will sometimes wind up a music box from her collection and listen to the melody. But, we’d have to search drawers to find wind-up toys from when our brood was young. I awoke with that thought this morning. If I wanted to buy wind-up toys, could I find them on the Internet? The answer is a resounding YES. I took a trip down memory lane and typed “wind-up toys” into my favorite search engine. There they were, available for old codgers like me to goggle over, and for a new generation who has never known such things existed. I couldn’t find Sherman tanks, but I did come across a chicken that wiggled across the floor and laid eggs. Come to think of it, I believe I know a drawer in our hutch containing a wind-up purple Papa Smurf. It might be too late for you to pick some up this year, but, it’s a good exercise to remember back to a day before you put batteries into anything except a flashlight. Columnist Gordie Little may be reached at gordie@suncommunitynews.com.
6 | December 26, 2015 • The Valley News Sun (CV)
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KIDS-N-PEACE @ST JOHN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 10 CHURCH ST., ESSEX.
JAN.
17 Sun.
THRU
FEB.
7
Sun.
DEC. LOREN & KEVIN@ 29 TANNERY POND Tues. CENTER, NORTH CREEK.
Tuesday: 7:30 pm
Sundays: 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Helping our children choose peaceful solutions with Jesus as our guide. For grades K-5. For information & registration (required): 203-707-4229.
View our complete listing and other events online.
83316
JAN. FIBT WORLD CUP BOBSLED 08 Fri. & SKELETON@ AND JAN. MT. VAN HOEVENBERG, 09 220 BOB RUN Sat. RD., LAKE PLACID.
Fri.-Sat.: 8:30 am - 6:00 pm
Catch all the excitement as the world’s best bobsled & skeleton riders battle it out! Details: whiteface.com. View our complete listing and other events online.
Saturday: 1:00 pm
Take the plunge in the waters of Long Lake to start off your New Year! Registration fee is “pay what you may” and proceeds benefit The Wounded Warrior Project. Registration & Med Check at 10 am. Details: 518-624-3077 or www.mylonglake.com.
Thursday: 10:30 pm - 12:30am
A family friendly skating party to ring in the New Year. Hot beverages and snacks will be available. $5 donation per person. Proceeds benefit the Lake Placid Food Pantry. Details: 518-302-5028.
HORSE DRAWN SLEIGH RIDES@ SHELBURNE FARMS, SHELBURNE, VERMONT.
FAMILY SKATING@ AMERI-CAN NORTH SPORTS CENTER, 90 SHARRON AVE., PLATTSBURGH.
78606
DEC.
28 Mon.
THRU
DEC.
30 Wed.
Mon.-Wed.: 11:00 am - Noon
Free ice time is available to anyone each day. Skate rentals available for $2. No registration necessary. Details: 518-562-6860, townofplattsburghrecreation.com. View our complete listing and other events online.
RESOLUTION RUN@ HERITAGE MUSEUM, TICONDEROGA.
83318
JAN.
01 Fri.
Friday: 11:00 am
78612
DEC. SKATE INTO 2016@ 31 Thurs. OLYMPIC SPEED SKATING OVAL, LAKE PLACID.
View our complete listing and other events online.
View our complete listing and other events online.
83317
JAN. FEELIN’ LONG LAKEY 02 Sat. POLAR BEAR PLUNGE@LONG LAKE TOWN BEACH, LONG LAKE.
View our complete listing and other events online.
Tannery Pond Center presents Loren & Kevin. The Barrigar Brothers are talented guitarists who will perform in concert at the center. Admission is $15 for adults, Free for students and children. Details: 518-251-2505 or bspeach@tpcca.org.
The LaChute Road Runner’s Resolution Run is a 5k run or walk. Entry fee is $2 or donation of 2 canned goods. Proceeds benefit the Ticonderoga Food Pantry. Details: 518-585-6619. View our complete listing and other events online.
78613
DEC. NEW YEAR’S EVE 31 FIREWORKS@ Thurs. SHEPARDS PARK, LAKE GEORGE.
Thursday: 12:00 am
78610
DEC.
25 Fri.
THRU
JAN.
01 Fri.
Giddy-up, Giddy-up on these 20 minute rides from the Welcome Center. All rides are weather-permitting. Call for weather conditions and times: 802-985-8442. View our complete listing and other events online.
78614
Start your New Year off with a bang! Enjoy fireworks over Lake George at midnight. Finish off your year with a fireworks spectacular. Details: 518-668-5755. View our complete listing and other events online.
78611
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The Valley News Sun • December 26, 2015 | 7
West Chazy woman hand makes dresses for girls in Nicaragua Project grew from Mission of Hope work By Natasha Courter
news@suncommunitynews.com
WEST CHAZY — Lucille Dragoon is going to make 39 little Nicaraguan girls very happy this holiday season with handmade cotton sundresses. The 87-year-old West Chazy resident has worked on the project since spring and her dresses will be sent down to Central America in February. Mission of Hope The North Country chapter for The Mission of Hope began in 1998 after Hurricane Mitch devastated the nation. “It stalled over Nicaragua and El Salvador and more than 2,200 people lost their lives,” said Sister Debbie Blow. The trickle of refugees into the country, including to the Plattsburgh school where Blow worked as a principal, led to the formation of the North Country chapter. Since their formation, the group has taken 61 missions to the country. While there, the group aids in education and reconstruction efforts, among other services. Lucille’s Mission Lucille, a Utica native, eventually made her way to SUNY Plattsburgh. She married and raised a family. Daughter Jo eventually found herself in Nicaragua. Before long, they began sponsoring children. “I was very interested in what they were doing,” Lucille said. “It’s a really nice thing.” Jo suggested she take all of her scrap material and make something for the girls. “Unfortunately, Mom’s health does not permit this level of involvement, so this was her contribution,” said Tom Dragoon, Lucille’s son. With her arthritis and a fall back in November, nothing has stopped Lucille from her mission. “I had some materials here at the house and I went out and got a pattern,” Lucille said. “I got started and said, “This is fun, I’m having a great time.”” Before long, Lucille ran out of material for her dresses. On Mother’s Day, she received a box of fabric. “I was tickled pink,” Lucille said. “They couldn’t have given me anything I like to do better.” Once word got out to Lucille’s friends, they, too, began donating. Lucille was off and running and got up to 39 dresses from sizes five to 12. “I don’t like to sit down and do nothing,” Lucille said. “That’s also what’s got me going to do this.” Tom agreed: “For her to sit in front of a TV and not have a knitting needle in her hand is uncommon,” he said. “She will knit in the car all the way down to Plattsburgh and back.” If Lucille hunkered down, it would take her 24 hours to complete one dress. She takes her time and likes to tinker around the house. She will then sit down to work on a dress for a couple of hours. Lucille wants to make sure every stitch is perfect on each dress. If it wasn’t for a broken sewing machine, she would have reached her goal of 50
dresses. Her machine has been sent to Montreal for repair and she has been slowed down quit a bit, but she hopes to get back to it as soon as everything is fixed. The finished product The difficult part about getting people involved in doing something like this is them having the knowledge to knit or sew as well as having the financial backing, said Tom. “With my mother it’s like a tsunami,” NEVER STOP GIVING: West Chazy resident Lucille Dargoon has knitted 39 dresses for children Tom said. “A perfect gathering of all the el- in Nicaragua. For the 87-year-old, it’s a way to give back. She’s pictured here with her husPhoto provided ements needed to make something like this band, Edward. work.” wonderful about the North Country,” Blow said. “We get tre“She used very colorful patterns and put decorative buttons mendous support for the Mission.” on them,” Blow said. “Just to kind of specialize them.” When delivering the dresses to Blow’s office, Lucille seemed Lucille’s final touch on the dresses is buttons that help bring very emotional and deeply moved by the impact that she is out the colors. going to have from 39 little girls who will wear her colorful, Community members have heard about what Lucille has button-adorned sun dresses. done and they, too, would like to get involved. “She’s got a very strong commitment for helping,” Tom said. “One person gets inspired by another, and that’s what’s so “And she’s always been a giving soul.”
8 | December 26, 2015 • The Valley News Sun (CV)
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The Sun’s Top 10 of fall 2015
n perhaps one of the hardest years to judge, the staff at Sun Community News has come up with the top 10 games of the 2015-16 fall sports season. There were plenty of dramatic finishes, close calls and championship moments, not to mention all the thrills of a deep post-season run. Below is our list of the best games of the fall:
#5.Ê LakeÊ PlacidÊ boysÊ X-C
NYSPHSAA Cross Country Championships The Blue Bombers became the first team since Saranac Lake to bring home a cross country state championship for Section VII, racing their way to victory on a very demanding course at Monroe-Woodbury High School. Led by top runner Karl Schulz (above), the team was dominate throughout the regular season, and knew what to expect coming into the championships having already run the course.
#1.Ê TiconderogaÊ v.Ê Tioga
NYSPHSAA Class D football state championship What makes this game great is the pressure it was played under: this was the Class D state championship game, where Ti and Moriah had not come within 50 points of any team they had ever faced at the Carrier Dome. The Sentinels came out firing on all cylinders, scoring the first 14 points of the game. The ending was equally as exciting, but not as satisfying as the Ti faithful would have hoped for. On the second to last Tioga drive of the game, Ryan Trudeau (above) looked to have sealed the MVP title with a tackle for loss, sack and interception on three consecutive plays. While the game did not go the way the Sentinels had hoped (a 33-26 loss), they can hold their heads high knowing they represented the section and school well.
#3.Ê PHSÊ v.Ê EastÊ Aurora
NYSPHSAA Class B boys soccer championship The Hornets made the Class B state title game look like a Rhonda Rousey fight, throwing the first knock-out punch 34 seconds into the game as they went onto a 3-1 victory, earning the Class B state championship. The story of the weekend was German exchange student Hannes Kurzmann (above), who scored four of his team’s five goals and assisted on the other to Trevor Wills, which was the opener of the title game. J.D. Side (right) also played a large roll in net, making crucial diving saves to keep the opposition at bay The title also gave head coach Pat Shaughnessy his first as a rookie coach. Many remarked it was the first time they could remember a person who played in the state championship game (a 1-0 loss for the 2007 Hornets) returning as a coach, this time to win the title.
#6.Ê PHSÊ v.Ê Schalmont
NYSPHSAA Boys soccer regional final This was where the season was supposed to end, at the hands of second-ranked Schalmont, who many thought was the best team in the state, in the regional finals. No one told PHS that, as they scored a 3-2 victory to advance to the state Final Four. The rest, as they say, is history. State championship history.
#2. Griffins v. Chazy
Section VII/Class D boys soccer semifinal There’s more Elizabwthtown-Lewis/Westport games coming on this list, but the Class D semifinal at George Brendler field had the one key ingredient which not only elevates this to the best soccer game of the year, but had us debating if it should be number one itself. Venom. Paul Buehler and Rob McAuliffe respect each other, and these teams respect each other. But, they want to beat each other. This game had scoring - in fact, we can’t remember the last time we saw a regulation goal between these two teams in sectional play. High quality goals, too. Trey Hulbert heading a ball off a Hudson Stephens corner kick and Josh McCauley’s rocket from the top of the box just past the outstretched arms of Sam Napper (above). Eventually, it came down to penalty kicks, the most debated yet exciting way to advance, made more exciting by the 10 to 15 second delay in the official calling the final shot of the game no good, giving the Griffins a 3-2 edge and a trip to the Class D finals.
#4.Ê TiconderogaÊ v.Ê Moriah Section VII/Class D football finals
For the second time in three years, the Ti-Moriah rivalry came down to the end. It could have come down to the beginning. On it’s first drove of the game, the Vikings got to the Ticonderoga 15 yard line, failing to convert on a fourth down play. After the game, head coach Don Tesar said he should have went for the field goal. Why? Because that would wind up being the closest either team would get to scoring for the rest of the 48 minutes of play, heading into a scoreless tie overtime which was broken on the Sentinel’s first possession as they scored a 6-0 victory to advance into the state playoffs.
#7. Griffins v. Northern Adk. Section VII/Class D boys championships
Overttime is nothing new in the Class D sectional finals here, but usually it is between the Griffins and Chazy. With newcomer Northern Adirondack entering the mix, whoever was going to get out of Section VII alive was going to have a great resume in states. After a scoreless 80 minutes of play, the game came down to a Joel Morris penalty kick, which was converted to send the Griffins onto a magical ride through the state playoffs.
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#8. Griffins v. Fort Ann
NYSPHSAA boys soccer Class D championship After putting themselves on the map with a sectional title, the Elizabethtown-Lewis/Westport Griffins got past Chateaugay and Cincinnatus to make their way to either school’s first state championship game appearance against Fort Ann, the perennial bridesmaid who finally overcame the ghosts of championship’s past for a 1-0 victory over the Griffins. While the team would have loved to come away with a state title, many players and coaches remarked how special the experience was along with their desire to return to Middletown in years to come.
#9.Ê NorthernÊ Adk.Ê v.Ê Keene
Section VII/Class D boys soccer semifinals While the Class C and B semifinals were played on neutral sites, the Class D semifinals were, by far, the best day of soccer in 2015. Before the Griffins scored their win over the Eagles, the Beavers and Bobcats did battle for 80 minutes without a goal being scored. The Bobcats were able to find the golden moment in overtime, as Bryce Labarge (above) was able to send the Bobcats to their first Class D final in as many attempts.
(CV)
The Valley News Sun • December 26, 2015 | 9
#10.Ê NorthernÊ Adk.Ê v.Ê AVCS
Section VII/Class C girls soccer championship This game did not come down to penalty kicks as much as it came down to weather. In the driving rain and blustery wind (which killed our photographers camera), the Lady Patriots and Lady Bobcats battled through 80 minutes plus 30 more of overtime, neither team able to find the back of the net. In kicks, the Bobcats shutout the Patriots, 3-0, giving AuSable Valley alum Cammey Keyser the “student becomes the teacher” win over Patriots coach Bruce Bourgeois.
HonorableÊ mentions:Ê gamesÊ of Ê theÊ year
#11. Chazy v. Keene
#13. Beekmantown v. OFA
The Chazy Lady Eagles ended the unbeaten streak of the Keene Lady Beavers, claiming another Section VII trophy with a convincing win. The team would go on to lose to Chateaugay in the regional finals.
The Lady Eagles continued their run with a win over Ogdensburg Free Academy, a run which would come to an end in the regional finals.
Section VII/Class D girls championship
#12.Ê BeekmantownÊ v.Ê NCCS Section VII/Class B girls championship
It was the year for teams named Lady Eagles to end unbeaten streaks in 2015, as the Beekmantown squad did the same thing as Chazy, ending the perfect season for the Cougars with a 1-0 win to advance to the regional playoffs, where...
NYSPHSAA Class B girls regional semi
#14.Ê TiconderogaÊ v.Ê Peru CVAC regular season football
The Sentinels and Indians went back and forth in the second week of the regular season before the Sentinels were able to pull ahead for good late in the game. While a milestone win for the Sentinels, it may have set up the biggest game of the regular season, a 28-6 loss to
rival Moriah Vikings, which Sentinel coach Scott Nephew said was the moment his team started to focus on what they would need to do in order to win the Class D title and advance deep into states.
15.Ê CrownÊ PointÊ v.Ê Johnsburg Section VII/Class D quarterfinals
In their second season with a girls varsity soccer program, the Lady Jaguars pulled off the upset of the postseason when they defeated the Lady Panthers in the first round of play in Class D. The team would lose in the next round, but looks forward to continuing their rise in 2016 with a solid core of players returning.
Local athletes recognized with state, academic awards NYSSWAÊ AllÊ StateÊ girlsÊ soccer ScholarÊ athletesÊ honoredÊ inÊ Class B third team MVAC Kirsten Villemaire
Beekmantown
Class B fourth team Katie Matott
NCCS
Chazy Central Rural School
Class C fourth team Liza Marinis
Lake Placid
Long Lake Central School Chandler O’Brien-Brown (9), Karmen Howe (9) Minerva Central School Shane Bush-Lancaster (10), Taylor Feiden (12) Newcomb Central School
Crown Pt. Central School
Aiden LaCourse (11), Meghan O’Donnell (12)
Kolby Pertak (12), Maria Malone (12) Keene
Class D fifth team Makenna Magee
Justin Haverlick (12), Lura Johnson (9)
Michael Parent (12), Morgan Collins (12)
Class D fourth team Hanna Whitney
ELIZABETHTOWN — Officials of the Mountain and Valley Athletic Conference (MVAC) have announced scholar athletes for the 2015 fall sports season. One male and one female athlete are chosen for each sport season. The criteria for selection are a minimum of an 85 average, one who excels in academics and sport of the season and exhibits good sportsmanship and a positive attitude.
Keene Central School
Elizabethtown-Lewis Central School Trevor Brooks (12), Emma Disogra (12)
Northern Adk.
Indian Lake Central School Noah Pine (12), Taylor Carroll (12)
Boys soccer and football All State teams yet to be announced. Johnsburg Central School Joe Foote (12), Makayla Denno (12)
Schroon Lake Central School Ben Wisser (10), Emily Maisonville (10) Westport Central School Thomas Mero (12), Chloe Mitchell (11) Willsboro Central School Zach Pierson (12), Taylor Bigelow (12)
10 | December 26, 2015 • The Valley News Sun (CV)
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Morris, Whitney headline All Valley soccer teams All-ValleyÊ boysÊ soccerÊ team
All-ValleyÊ girlsÊ soccerÊ team
Starters
Starters
Coach: Paul Buehler, EL/W Griffins Captain: Joel Morris, EL/W Griffins
Coach: Jody Whitney, Keene Captain: Hanna Whitney, Keene
Goalie
Sam Napper, EL/W Griffins
Goalie
Sydney Snow, AuSable Valley
Defense
Anderson Gay, EL/W Griffins
Defense
Hannah Schwoebel, EL/W
Defense
Justin Haverlick, Keene
Defense
Elaina Smith, Keene
Defense
Trevor Brooks, EL/W Griffins
Defense
Brianna Savage, AVCS
Defense
Jaso Hannula, Lake Placid
Midfield
Hanna Whitney, Keene
Midfield
Stuart Baird, Lake Placid
Midfield
Tess Andrade, EL/W Griffins
MIdfield
Thomas Mero, EL/W Griffins
MIdfield
Taylor Gough, EL/W Griffins
Midfield
Miles Warner, Keene
Midfield
Mia Kennedy, Lake Placid
Striker
Joel Morris, EL/W Griffins
Striker
CorriAnne Stoner, Keene
Striker
Eric Montana, Lake Placid
Striker
Ellie Storey, EL/W Griffins
Striker
Liza Marinis, Lake Placid
Reserves
Reserves
Noah Mohr
Lake Placid
Kamm Cassidy
Lake Placid
Kourtney Keenan
AuSable Valley
Lucas Cross
Willsboro
Bailey VanNess
Keene
Zach Pierson
Willsboro
Vanessa Garrow
AuSable Valley
Ethan Wood
Saranac Lake
Camille Craig
Lake Placid
Alex Knapp
AuSable Valley
Mackenzie Kondrat
Lake Placid
Justin Farmer
Saranac Lake
Cameron Shipman
Lake Placid
Nate Devins
AuSable Valley
Elly Smith
Keene
Colden Blades
EL/W Griffins
Trina Bigelow
Willsboro
Trey Hulbert
EL/W Griffins
Payton Gough
Willsboro
Lucas Isham
Keene
Carley Sawyer
Saranac Lake
Josh Baldwin
Keene
Madison Gifford
Keene
SPORTS WRAP
GirlsÊ basketball Westport 56, Chazy 26
WESTPORT — The Lady Eagles of the south jumped out to a 22-6 first quarter lead to defeat their namesakes from the north Dec. 17. Ellie Storey paced Westport with 19 points, while Hannah Schwoebel added 11, Malynda Lobdell 10, Kaleigh LaMotte 6, Taylor Gough 4, Lizzie Stephens 4 and Chloe Mitchell 2.
Willsboro 48, Elizabethtown-Lewis 27 WILLSBORO — The Lady Warriors outscored the Lady Lions in each of the four quarters played to earn a win Dec. 17. Trina and Taylor Bigelow led the offensive charge for the Warriors, scoring 15 and 12 points, respectively. Peyton Gough added 6 points, while Alex Bliss scored 5, Sheila Wilkins 3, Shania Lincoln 2 and Kaitlyn Shaw 1. Emma Disogra scored 15 points for the Lions, with Myra Adams adding 4, EmmaLee Turner 3, Faith Bona 3 and Sierra Jacques 2.
AVCS 55, PHS 33 PLATTSBURGH — The Lady Patriots took a 27-10 lead into halftime and did not look back in defeating the Lady Hornets Dec. 17. Madison McCabe scored 25 points to lead the Patriots, while Sydney Snow added 11, Kourtney Keenan 5 and Tressa Loreman 4. The Patriots got 2 points each from Hannah Greenley, Leah Shay, Vanessa Garrow, Adele Bourgeois and Addyson Strong.
Keene 60, ELCS 25 KEENE VALLEY — The Beavers jumped out to a 34-12 halftime lead as they defeated the Lady Lions Dec. 15. Hanna Whintey scored 17 points to lead the Beavers, while Elaina Smith had 16, Elly Smith 8, Marta Padura 6, Caitlyn Lopez 5, Madison Gifford 4, Lura Johnson 2 and Daria Venner 2. Myra Adams paced the Lions will 12 points as Emma Disogra scored 11 and EmmaLee Turner 2.
Westport 40, Willsboro 37 WESTPORT — The Lady Eagles, once leading 34-14, were able to hold off a late charge by the Lady Warriors to earn a victory Dec. 15. Hannah Schwoebel paced the Eagles offense with 10 points, while Malynda Lobdell scored all 9 of her points in the third quarter. Ellie Storey added 8 points with Chloe Mitchell scoring 6 in her first game back from injury, Taylor Gough 5 and Lizzie Stephens 2. Trina Bigelow scored 15 points for the Warriors, while Peyton Gough scored 7, Sheila Wilkins 5, Shania Lincoln 4 and Kaitlin Shaw 2.
AVCS 60, Ticonderoga 31 TICONDEROGA — The Lady Patriots jumped out to a
16-4 first quarter lead as they scored a victory against the Lady Sentinels Dec. 15. Madison McCabe led the Patriots offense with 21 points, as Leah Shay added 10, Sydney Snow 6, Vanessa Garrow 5, Nia Blaise 5, Emily McDonald 4, Kourtney Keenan 3 and Tressa Loreman 2. Delany Hughes led the Sentinels with 13 points while Emily Pike scored 10, Kristen Palandrani 4 and Rachel White 2.
BoysÊ basketball AVCS 63, PHS 50
CLINTONVILLE — The Patriots took a 25-11 halftime edge and continued on for a victory over the Hornets Dec. 17. Nate Manning paced the balanced scoring attack for the Patriots with 18, while Joel Martineau added 14, Kobe Parrow 14, Alex Knapp 11, Luca Perez 5 and Landon Shay 1.
AVCS 55, Ticonderoga 40 CLINTONVILLE — Kobe Parrow scored 17 points as the Patriots were able to hold off the Sentinels Dec. 15. Nate Manning added 14, points, while Alex Knapp scored 12, Joel Martineau 4, Lucas Perez 2 and Landon Shay 2. Willsboro’s Kaitlyn Wilkins drives to the basket against Westport last week.
Elizabethtown-Lewis 47, Keene 46 ELIZABETHTOWN — Colden Blades scored 15 points to help lead the Lions past the Beavers Dec. 16. Joel Morris added 10 points, while Trevor Brooks and Thomas Celotti scored 7, Sam Huttig 4 and Anthony Celotti 4. Damian Brown scored 24 points for the Beavers with Josh Baldwin scoring 10, while Josh Haverlick, Lucas Isham and Noah Haverlick scoring 4. Tom Palen and Azriel Finsterer each scored 2 points.
Westport 42, Willsboro 33 WILLSBORO — The Eagles outscored the Warriors, 11-8, over the final eight minutes of play to give them the edge they would need to score a win Dec. 16.
Photo by Jill Lobdell
Sam Napper recorded a double-double with 17 points and 12 rebounds, while Anderson Gay also scored 17 points. Thomas Mero added 4 points, while Carter Storey and Wyatt Gough each scored 2. For the Warriors, Jesse Hearn scored 12 points to go along with 11 from Sean Lincoln, 3 from Max Longware and Trevor Bigelow, and 2 from Zach Pierson and Lucas Cross.
Wrestling
Beekmantown 67, AVCS 14 CLINTONVILLE — Dylan Baker had a strong showing for the Patriots, recording a 15-point tech fall as AVCS fell to the Eagles Dec. 16. Chance Lapier recorded a pin for the Patriots, while Landen Snyder scored a 2-0 decision for the AuSable wins.
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Stec looked at a reporter: “To boil it down into a soundbite,” he said, “when we talk about minimum wage, we’re talking about where we’re setting the floor. But let’s talk about raising the ceiling, too.” The long-term game plan, said Stec, shouldn’t be to base a career on the hike. Stec, a Republican, suspects the issue will be used as a bargaining chip in the upcoming budget process. The assemblyman surveyed the room, which contained several individuals known for their environmental advocacy work. “I have street cred when it comes to Assemblyman Dan Stec discusses public policy with Ron Konowitz at a town hall-style meeting on loving the trees,” he said. Wednesday, Dec. 16 in Keene. Attendees also got a peek behind the curtain of what happens after the initial Development Funds pomp from gold-plated policy initiatives fades, like the state’s From page 1 pledge in January to make broadband universal by 2019, a $1 billion project that seeks to leverage $500 million in private the assembly decided not to vote on this?” Stec asked. “They’ve investment. been giving it lip service,” he later said about his downstate “Here we are in the middle of December and the money colleagues. isn’t out the door yet,” said Stec, citing discussions with local officials. “A very bold promise was made on the timeline and The dozen-or-so attendees nodded. The assemblyman blasted the state’s budget process as level of service. You have to deliver on what you’re promis“weird” for the practice of tying spending to policy — “They ing.” Stec chalked it up to bureaucracy, nothing insidious. should be things done for their own sake separately” — and likened lawmakers scrambling to pass the end-of-session omHe said he pulled the governor aside at a recent function for nibus bill to college slackers. a polite discussion: Last month, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced he would “You gotta get the broad money out,” Stec told Cuomo. unilaterally establish a $15 minimum wage for all state work“I know, I hear you,” Stec recalled the governor as saying. ers. “We’re working on it.” Stec, a nuclear engineer by trade, compared the edict to opAttendees let it all sink in. erating a nuclear reactor: The event was held at the Keene Firehouse, a structure con“You don’t just start twisting knobs.” structed in 2013 after the old one fell into Gulf Brook followNorth Country businesses have to balance that issue with ing Irene. Photos of Cuomo at the ribbon cutting ceremony other needs, said Stec, citing a business who shifted their fo- lined the walls. cus from rising energy costs to the wage issue. “It’s fascinating to listen to Dan on how the whole system
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The Valley News Sun • December 26, 2015 | 11
works,” said Ron Konowitz, president of the Adirondack Powder Skier Association, who attended the meeting. Konowitz said he had concerns about several issues, including the failure of the state to add Forest Rangers to keep up with Forest Preserve additions, as well as what he perceives to be a sluggish State Land Master Plan process. Could it be a funding issue? Stec, whose father was a long-time forest ranger, said it was unlikely the head of a large state department would admit that their agency would be underfunded. But with more laws typically means a creeping bureaucracy, he said. “I think that’s a part of it,” said Stec. The lawmaker said he enjoys the town hall format. About one-third of his constituents in his four-county district, the 114th, live in the Glens Falls suburban area. Interacting with them is often as easy as going to the Aviation Mall, he said. For the rest, you just have to hit the road. “It’s never arm-twisting to get me to come to Keene or Lake Placid.”
12 | December 26, 2015 • The Valley News Sun (CV)
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The Valley News Sun • December 26, 2015 | 13
14 | December 26, 2015 • The Valley News Sun (CV)
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CCC val: “Just remember that you can”
PLATTSBURGH — Krista White didn’t get the jitters until she surveyed the stage at graduation rehearsals. After that, reality set in for the Clinton Community College valedictorian who managed to rack up a long list of accolades and accomplishments in just three semesters: Presidential scholar. Student senator. Member of Phi Theta Kappa, the prestigious international honor society for two-year college students. White, 19, also served as a member of the college’s student activity board and communications council. The Champlain resident said she wouldn’t trade the experience for anything. White, who graduated alongside 143 others on Friday with an AA in Liberal Arts: Humanities and Social Science, said the school was a
Clinton Community College valedictorian Krista White delivered the commencement speech to her classmates on Dec. 11. “Where do we go from here?” White asked. “The answer to that question varies from student to student.”
SALUTATORIAN Rodney G. Killam, graduating with an Associate of Science degree in Business Administration, was tapped as salutatorian. The New Brunswick native said while coming to college as an adult student with a family and full-time job was initially intimidating, the challenge was worth it. Killam resides in West Chazy with his wife, Ramona, and their four children. The grad, also a member of Phi Theta Kappa, plans to enter the business field at the administrative level, and possibly continue at SUNY Plattsburgh to obtain his BA.
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For White, the semester-long stint came during a year when two of Albany’s most powerful figures, former assembly speaker Sheldon Silver and senate majority leader Dean Skelos, were convicted on felony corruption charges. White was in the chambers in May when John Flanagan was sworn in as senate majority leader. “I was really excited,” said White, speaking to The Sun hours after a jury found Skelos and his son guilty of eight felony extortion and conspiracy charges. “I went in a good year for political corruption.” In addition to Griffo, White said she was pleased to meet Sen. Betty Little, whom she respects greatly, alongside her staff, whom White referred to as “amazing.” “These interactions furthered my interest in state government,” White said. White plans on attending law school, perhaps Albany Law, before embarking on some type of public service with the state. “I’m 19. I have a lot of years ahead of me to decide what I want to do.” The grad said none of it would be possible without the support of faculty, friends and family, including her advisor, Professor Tom Mandeville, and her mother, who served as her biggest cheerleader. “Her support and love has meant so much to me, I owe a lot to her,” White said.
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perfect fit for her. Following her graduation from Northeastern Clinton Central, White was unsure of her career path. The faculty and staff guided her in the right direction with hands-on advice. Their accessibility helped, as did the tightly-knit student body, whom White hailed for getting her to think in new ways. Now, she’s off to the University at Albany: SUNY, where she plans to double major in political science and criminal justice. “I think it is safe to say that most of us will agree when I say Clinton Community College was a perfect place to begin this voyage,” White told her classmates at her commencement speech on Friday. White has already spent a semester in the state capital, having participated in the state senate undergraduate assistants program, where she interned for Sen. Joseph A. Griffo of the 47th district. The grad became animated when discussing public policy, especially student loans, which she said need to be made more affordable. As part of her internship, White drafted mock legislation to address the issue.
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The Valley News Sun • December 26, 2015 | 15
Community, meet conservation Joint partnership between Willsboro and the Nature Conservancy aims to transform downtown preserve into recreational and educational destination By Pete DeMola
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WILLSBORO — After slicing through the center of town, the state’s steepest river takes a hairpin turn and creeps southeast. Running between walls of limestone and old-growth forest, each ecological feature tells a story before the Boquet dumps into Lake Champlain — Destruction. Renewal. Stability. Through a joint partnership, the town of Willsboro and the Nature Conservancy hope to share these stories with the public by way of a recreational trail system. The Nature Conservancy owns 110 acres along the riverbank. The path, which starts at the end of Gilliland Lane near the town boat launch, takes visitors from floodplain forest and wetlands to upland forest and back down again. Contained within the loop is an astonishing array of plants and animals, say experts who are familiar with the parcel, including Dan Spada, an environmental consultant who led an expedition through the property on a frosty late-autumn morning. Nature is a language, said Spada. You just have to know how to interpret it. He speculates a copse of old-growth sycamores could be the oldest northerly stand in the state. Behind the trees, which he pegged at 200-years-old, stood rows of thin white and green ash, with silver maples leaning over the river. Perhaps a catastrophic flood wiped everything away, he said. Spada pointed at gashes in the bark, indications of flood damage. The river regularly rises up and retreats, leaving pools that spawn amphibians. In the spring, the creatures dart between the chest-high lilies, sunflowers and ostrich ferns. Below, underneath the hardwoods and hemlocks, needle ice grew out of the dark soil, renewed by the floods and the resulting sediments.
Dan Spada is working to take an ecological inventory of the 110-acre preserve. Photo by Pete DeMola
The Boquet Nature Preserve, located in Willsboro, contains a diverse array of plant and animal wildlife. The Nature Conservancy has partnered with the town of Willsboro to make improvements designed to make the property more accessible to the public. Pictured above: The Nature Conservancy’s Director of Stewardship Todd Dunham hikes the trail earlier this month. Photo by Pete DeMola
COMMUNITY INTEGRATION Shea Flanagan, the TNC conservation intern leading the project, said the main goal of the multi-phase effort is to transform the property into a recreation and educational asset that can be used by the entire community — not just fitness buffs, but everyone from amateur scientists to residents of the nearby retirement home. At present, Flanagan is working with town officials to upgrade the main trail, known as the River Trail. Alongside a series of structural improvements — including those designed to make the trail more handicap accessible and user-friendly — the groups aim to add educational kiosks and interpretive materials that recount the tract’s ecological inventory. Eventually, the plans call for the construction of a loop and connector trails that link the preserve to town-owned property on two sides, which includes several assets, including a boat launch and beach. Subsequent year-round activities, including bicycling, snowshoeing and horseback riding, will ideally aid in putting the town on the map as a recreation destination, said Shaun Gillilland, the town’s supervisor. Perhaps businesses will also bloom to accommodate the visitors, including fishermen who may visit the town if salmon manage to make their way upriver, something the US Fish and Wildlife Service said is possible following the removal of
the Saw Mill dam earlier this year. “The whole concept is in its extreme infancy,” said Gillilland. For years, the land, once owned by Willsboro Industries, has sat unused. “A lot of people didn’t know this thing was there.” A chief goal of the project is to integrate the land into the daily lives of the elder care facility — including residents of the memory wing — and Willsboro Central, which has already established an outdoor classroom. In October, science teacher John Oliver installed three plots to monitor garlic mustard. Next year, he aims to launch an eradication program and install signage on invasive species. So far, he said, students have responded favorably to the program. “To be able to do stuff like that is great,” said Oliver. Students even gave the preserve a formal name, the Boquet River Nature Preserve, which was offered by second-grader Cora King. This involvement is crucial in the Nature Conservancy’s belief that healthy communities are tied to healthy environments, says the organization. “It’s a true community asset,” said Flanagan. The natural story of the preserve is far from over. Spada surveyed the landscape and noted the emergence of invasive species on the floodplain, including the emerald ash beetle, a pest that has “whooped” Ulster County. “When it gets here, this is going to be a different community,” said Spada. The Boquet River Nature Preserve is open for hiking, fishing, paddling, cross-country skiing and other sustainable recreation during daylight hours. It will remain open as improvements are made in phases over the next several years. To learn more, visit nature.org/adirondacks and townofwillsboro.com.
16 | December 26, 2015 • The Valley News Sun (CV)
Weather
From page 1 make the decision to come or not,” said McKenna. Lake Placid Econo Lodge Manager Kathy Studwell said bookings this month have dropped to their lowest December levels in five years. “It’s definitely made a hit on us,” said Studwell. “There’s nothing you can do.” Others have reported the opposite, like Todd Ottenstein, of Adirondack-Vacation, who said his vacational rent units in Wilmington are booked until spring, a measure he attributes to amenities that provide alternatives to hitting the slopes. “Our customers have a lot of money and they’re going to be spending it at the local stores and restaurants,” said Ottenstein. “It’s good for everybody.” On Wednesday, ROOST and their marketing partners rolled out a list of alternate activities. The list, which encourages visitors to “invent your own perfect holiday in Lake Placid,” assures them that despite the balmy forecast — temperatures are scheduled to hover in the mid-40s all next week, reaching as high as 55 on Christmas Eve — there’s plenty to do in the Olympic village, including a tribute ice show, wellness opportunities and skiing at Whiteface Mountain, which is open. “It’s no secret as it’s been a challenge, but we’re in the same boat as the rest of the east coast,” said John Lundin, a spokesman for the Olympic Regional Development Agency (ORDA). Lundin confirmed there have been some cancellations, but
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said he didn’t have exact data immediately available. Whiteface will make snow when conditions allow, said Lundin. At present, Whiteface, Gore Mountain and Belleayre Ski Center are the only three ski destinations open in state, said Ron Konowitz, President of the Adirondack Powder Skier Association. Konowitz attributed investments ORDA made in low-impact snowmaking machines for their ability to weather the trend. “It’s really paying off,” said Konowitz. The breezy climes are also a nail-biter for farmers and those in the agricultural biz who rely on a fairly predictable cycle. While the mild weather creates fewer infrastructure issues and is less stressful on animals — hens lay better, others eat less hay — the lack of snow cover will likely result in problems later in the season, said Racey Bingham, of Reber Rock Farm. Snow cover before a deep freeze creates an insulated layer that protects crops, including wheat, garlic and rye, from the cold. Without that cover, plants risk being damaged. Bingham said she’s heard reports of sap running from maple trees as a result of daytime thaws, a development she said was concerning and might have implications for maple season. “It’s a little strange and worrisome,” said Bingham. “We hope it will snow before it get really cold.” More than any other type of farming, fruit-bearing trees are severely affected by rapid changes in temperature, said Jay White, of the Boquet Valley Vineyard in Essex.
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Vines are not yet at the level of dormancy to protect themselves against severe cold. The result may be damaged or lost buds. “They’re going to be more vulnerable to damage in the winter,” said White. At least one group isn’t complaining. The spring-like temperatures has allowed the Essex County Department of Public Works to continue working on summer projects. The maintenance schedule has been extended, said Superintendent Chris Garrow, while overtime costs have been reduced, as has usage of the sand and salt mixture used to melt snow and ice. “It’s very unusual,” said Garrow. “Usually it’s a lot colder than it is now, which limits us.” For local residents and businesses, the temperatures mean they’ve largely avoided reliance on heating systems. A Griffith Energy representative said they could not comment on local issues and steered a reporter to their Rochester headquarters. A local company, Gordon Oil, did not return a call seeking comment. Is the weather a result of climate change? While the two factors have always been in the background, climate change will bring more extreme swings, said Lang, adding more research is needed to tease out the connection. “It’s likely climate change has enhanced the warm nature of this.”
Christmas Eve service slated ELIZABETHTOWN — The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd’s Christmas worship services will include a Christmas Eve family service: Thursday, Dec. 24, at 4 p.m. with the Christmas Eve candlelight service at 11 p.m. The Christmas Day Service will be Friday, Dec. 25, at 10 a.m.
Brunch to benefit EKMW WADHAMS — There will be a Sunday brunch Sunday, Jan. 3 at the Dogwood Bread Company, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This will be a sourdough waffle and quiche spectacular. All proceeds go to the EKMW Track Team. There is a suggested donation.
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The Valley News Sun • December 26, 2015 | 17
18 | December 26, 2015 • The Valley News Sun (CV)
McGee
From page 1 major problems, including drainage issues, said Dave Reckahn. Kip and Mary Trienens, by way of a letter entered into the public record, expressed concerns about a number of potential issues, including clutter and the environmental impact. Vehicles from the towing business come and go on a regular schedule, said McGee, while tires for clients are ordered on an as-needed basis and regularly disposed of in the county landfill. Cars with leaking fluids are drained before leaving the flat-bed truck, he said. Fencing has proved to be problematic in the past, McGee admitted, owing to a hard layer of bedrock that prohibits driving posts. Shrubbery is an option, he said. But past attempts to plant foliage have failed. Another neighbor, Kalene Hathaway, seemed pleased after McGee said business hours would remain the same, closing at 5:30 p.m. McGee noted the addition would improve public safety. If approved, his business’ driveway would be moved west to the new lot, a measure that would put more distance between the sharp turn on Lake Shore Drive with low visibility. While largely cordial, the hearing also was fraught with the underlying tension that perpetually bubbles beneath the lakeside community. Many said the permit has broader implications than just the survival of McGee’s business.
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“We really need this garage here,” said Helen Eagle, a resident who recently returned to the area. Eagle got a flat tire one morning and McGee had her on the road to an important appointment within the hour. That quick fix, said Eagle, was reassuring. The lack of businesses is troubling, she said, especially in a community that prides itself on tourism. If services continue to leave the community, Eagle said she would consider moving. “We need this man,” said Eagle. “Amen,” called a woman from the back of the room. Russ Paquette echoed similar sentiments. “Everything else is going downhill,” he said. “We can’t be putting people out of work in this time.” Sam Sherman said the town should re-examine their zoning laws and focus on encouraging businesses to stay and grow. “It’s becoming a very quiet town, a very dark town,” Sherman said. “I guess maybe people like living in a ghost town.” Board Chairman Chris Maron said he disagreed with that characterization. Rules and regulations are approved by the town board, he said. At one point, the board debated the impact that the proposed expansion would have on the neighborhood. “I think it does detract from the residential character of the area,” Maron said, later admitting that the concept of property value improvement is subjective. The planning board can either deny the permit, grant it or do so with conditions.
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“The best case scenario would be the permit is granted at the next meeting,” said Maron. If approved, McGee still faces additional permits and applications, including authorization from the state to operate a vehicle inspection facility, as well as a county-issued right-of-way work permit. McGee said he appreciated the process. “We either have to expand or die,” he said.
Akwesasne Casino bus trip planned SCHROON LAKE — The Schroon Lake Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring a Bus Trip to Akwesasne Casino on Sunday, Jan. 31, 2016. The Akwesasne Casino bus trip is open to all Schroon Lake Chamber Members, North Country Chamber Members as well as the public. The cost is $45 per person for Schroon Lake or North Country Chamber members, and $50 per person for non-chamber members. The bus will leave Schroon Lake Central School at 8:00 a.m. (you may park for the day), a pick-up will take place at Exit 30 @ 8:20 a.m., and a final pickup will be at Pray’s Farmers Market (you may park for the day). To reserve a spot on the bus today, call the Schroon Lake Chamber of Commerce at 532-7675. When making a reservation, chamber officials will need travelers’ birth dates, the full name on all travelers’ ID, travelers’ player’s card number (not required) and payment in full by Jan. 15. Call or email Schroon Lake Chamber Executive Director Tammy WhittyBrown at 532-7675 or director@schroonlakechamber.org for more information.
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Elizabethtown Social Center Arin Burdo
> Columnist
info@elizabethtownsocialcenter.org
A
nnouncing the winners of our annual Arthur G. Hooper Decorating Contest! What a challenge! The judging was tough, especially in Lewis this year. There were so many beautiful lights to brighten up our neighborhoods, with many new participants. It is so great to see so many people making the holidays bright and merry. There are always families who do an amazing job year after year and we appreciate and enjoy their efforts so much. But with so many new decorations, we decided this year to choose winners who had not won before, or at least in a very long time. So, without further ado, congratulations to the following winners: In Lewis, the Spirit of Christmas award goes to Wanda and Steve Duso on Rt.9. Jennifer and Andy Cassavaugh on Holburt Rd., won the Most Beautiful award. Most Original goes to Brandon, Julie and Pat Tromblee on Osawentha Dr. We would like to give Honorable Mentions to Chris and Danielle Bikowitz and Gary and Mitzi Hathaway, both on Rt 9. There are many festive decorations along Rt 9 in Lewis! Cutting Rd is also worth including in your decoration tour this year.
In Elizabethtown, the Spirit of Christmas award goes to Janet and Mike Hoff on Rt 9, toward New Russia. Most Beautiful was awarded to Beth and Ed Marvin on Water St. Candy and Jay Koehn on Park St. won the Most Original award. Honorable Mentions go to Toni and Bob Mowery on Park St., and Marian and Jim Cashin on Rt. 9. Water Street is, as always, a joy to drive down! We would also like to acknowledge the following businesses and organizations who decorated for the holidays: Flower Designs by Tracey, Aubuchons, Cobble Hill Golf Course, the Elizabethtown town park, Charm’s Hands Spa and Gifts, Kim’s Karpets, the Elizabethtown-Lewis Emergency Squad, Adirondack Outreach, and the Lewis Mountain Lake Services residences on Rt.9 and Wells Hill Rd. Thank you to everyone for creating a festive atmosphere in our towns! ELCS will not be open for Monday night basketball on Dec. 28 due to the holiday break. Check the facebook group “Social Center Adult Basketball” for updates. All fitness classes will take a break through the holiday season, resuming Thursday, Jan. 7 Teen Rec hours are Tuesday, Dec. 29 and Wednesday, Dec 30, 3 to 6 p.m.; and Saturday, Jan. 2, 2 until 9 p.m. The office and Teen Rec Hours will be closed Friday, Dec. 25, Thursday, Dec. 31, and Friday, Jan. 1. For more information, visit elizabethtownsocialcenter.org or call 873-6408.
Knights of Columbus Au Sable Forks Council 2301 named Mike Pelkey, of Au Sable Forks, Knight of the Year. Pictured on the left is Mike and Grand Knight Tom McDonald. Mike was presented with a plaque and a Knights of Columbus jacket.
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The Valley News Sun • December 26, 2015 | 19
Survival skills
Champlain Area Trails and Camp Pok-O-MacCready presented a Survival Skills program Saturday, Dec. 12 at the Blueberry Hill trail system in Elizabethtown. Instructors Zack Floss and Alex Mihavics covered advanced topics, including how to build a one person shelter.
Keene Central students learned a Latin percussion rhythm from community member Bob Andrews during a recent appearance at the school. The group then welcomed the 12-piece band, Alex Torres and His Latin Orchestra, by performing their groove. This was the band’s second arts-in-education visit to the school, sponsored by the Spanish Department. Photo provided
20 | December 26, 2015 • The Valley News Sun (CV)
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ONGOING EVENTS AT SARNAC TOWN HALL EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT FROM 7PM TO 9PM.GOOD COUNTRY MUSIC, ROUND, SQUARE AND LINE DANCING. ADMISSION A NONE PARISHABLE FOOD ITEM FOR THE LOCAL FOOD SHELF. REFRESHMENTS ARE SERVED WITH DONATION. CALL 518293-7056 ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES
FOR SALE
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2 Electric Guitar Cords, brand new, excellent condition, asking $15 for both. 518-585-9856. 2-55 Gallon Fresh Water Aquariums, Best Equipment, $200 Each. 518-708-0678 FLOTATION PONTOONS GREAT FOR BUILDING BARGE OR RAFT. CALL FOR SIZES AND PRICE. 518-561-2134 Hand Gun Ruger Vaquero 44 Magnum Stainless Steel, Single Action, Wood Grips, Fires 44 Mag. And 44 Special, Like New fire only once $550 OBO. 518-354-8654
XARELTO USERS have you had complications due to internal bleeding (after January 2012)? If so, you MAY be due financial compensation. If you don't have an attorney, CALL Injuryfone today! 1-800-340-6821?? ADOPTIONS ADOPTION - A Loving Choice for an Unplanned Pregnancy. Call Andrea 1-866-236-7638 (24/7) for adoption information/profiles, or view our loving couples at WWW.ANAAdoptions.com. Financial Assistance Provided
BUY-SELL-TRADE With The Classified Superstore 1-518-873-6368 Ext. 201
MINATURE TRAINS-LIONEL, American Flyer and HO scale, Vintage collection, perfect working condition, all electric, tracks, transformers, switches, display boards & buildings-negotiable 518-834-7929
Parabody 880 Gym Complete and Pacemaster Pro Plus Treadmill, excellent condition. Gym $300, Treadmill $300. 518-494-2270. Voicetone H1 Intelligent Harmony box, like new, excellent shape, asking $100. 518-585-9856.
(CV)
The Valley News Sun • December 26, 2015 | 21
22 | December 26, 2015 • The Valley News Sun (CV) FOR SALE SAWMILLS from only $4397.00 MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmillCut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. FREE Info/DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com 1-800-578-1363 Ext.300N
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NORTH COUNTRY LIVING MAGAZINE ASK YOUR SALES REPRESENTATIVE FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION OR CONTACT ASHLEY ALEXANDER 518-873-6368 EXT 105 OR EMAIL
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A Sun Community News
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LAVALLEE LOGGING
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is looking to harvest and purchase standing timber, All Species. Willing to pay New York State stumpage prices on all species. $ or % paid. References available. Matt Lavallee 518-645-6351 A CUT ABOVE THE REST!
LOGGING. LAND CLEARING. TIMBER MARKETING. Double Average Pay Immediately to Land Owner on Timber & Low Grade Chip Wood. Neat Forestry. 518-593-8752
PRECISION TREE SERVICE 518-942-6545
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WANTED TO BUY
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CASH FOR DIABETIC TEST STRIPS Up to $35/Box! Sealed & Unexpired. Payment Made SAME DAY. Highest Prices Paid!! Call Juley Today! 800-413-3479 www.CashForYourTestStrips.com CASH PAID for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS! 1 DAY PAYMENT & PREPAID shipping. HIGHEST PRICES! Call 1-888-7767771. www.Cash4DiabeticSupplies.com CASH PAID- up to $25/Box for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS. 1-DAYPAYMENT.1-800371-1136
THE SUN COMMUNITY NEWS & PRINTING 68 YEARS OF SERVING NORTH COUNTRY COMMUNITIES
WANTS TO PURCHASE minerals and other oil & gas interests. Send details P.O. Box 13557, Denver, Co 80201
DOGS COMMERCIAL PROPERTY
CASH for Coins! Buying Gold & Silver. Also Stamps, Paper Money, Comics, Entire Collections, Estates. Travel to your home. Call Marc in NY 1-800-959-3419
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IS YOUR VACATION HOME FOR SALE OR RENT? Promote it in print to nearly 4.3 million potential buyers (plus more readers online!) with a statewide classified ad. Advertise your property for just $489 for a 25-word ad, less for smaller coverage areas. Visit AdNetworkNY.com or call 315-437-6173 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
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DIVORCE $349 - Uncontested divorce papers prepared. Only one signature required. Poor person application included, if applicable. Separation agreements. Custody and support petitions.- 518-274-0380. CRUISE & TRAVEL CRUISE DEALS available for a limited time. Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Carnival and Norwegian. Hurry as these offers wont last! Call 877-270-7260 or go to NCPTRAVEL.COM to research. NCL CRUISE SPECIAL Pick one FREE Unlimited Beverages / FREE Specialty Dining / FREE WIFI / Free Shore Excursions! Hurry, limited time offer. Call for full details 877270-7260 or go to NCPtravel.com
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APARTMENT RENTALS WILLSBORO - 2 Bdrm Apartment, W/D, newly renovated, large yard, water/sewer incl. $590/mo + util. 603-553-0000
REAL ESTATE
HOME RENTALS WANTED TO BUY
4 BEDROOM HOME for sale in Lewis, NY Master bedroom on 1st floor large fenced in back yard Priced to sell at only $79,000 (518) 873-2362
VACATION PROPERTY
Wants to purchase minerals and other oil and gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, Co. 80201
AKC CHIHUAHUA, spayed female, 1 year old, up to date, black with white markings. Call 518-8732909.
HOMES
3 BEDROOM HOME NEAR ESSEX Ferry, wood flooring, 2 baths, fireplace, lake view, Available now $950 utilities not included. 518312-9053 REAL ESTATE SALES REAL ESTATE WILLSBORO, NY 1.06 acre lot w/water/sewer/power ($26,000) or Above lot with 1998 2bd/2bath mobile home ($49,000) 518-963-7320
Fishing For A Good Deal? Catch The Greatest Bargains In The Classifieds 1-518-873-6368 Ext. 201
PLATTSBURGH CONDO FOR SALE, South City, 1200 sq. ft., 1 ½ baths, 2 bedrooms, utility room, 3rd bedroom possible, screened porch, principal only! $74,900. 518-561-8037
Juggling Your Budget? Advertise Small, Get Big Results! Call 1-518-873-6368 Ext. 201
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(CV)
The Valley News Sun • December 26, 2015 | 23
24 | December 26, 2015 • The Valley News Sun (CV)
www.suncommunitynews.com
Published by Denton Publications, Inc.