The Buck Ramble NNY Roundup.
From dancing under hospital fluorescents to municipal money moves, Watertown is buzzing today. Hospital staff threw a prom for an injured senior confined to a bed. At the Jefferson County SPCA, Pepper the nine-year-old German Shorthaired Pointer awaits adoption. Civic bodies convene tonight — the City Council meets at 7 PM for budget and ordinance discussions, and the Planning Board holds hearings on a two-lot subdivision and Mirabito Holdings’ site plan. Community life includes the 20th Annual Mental Health Awareness Walk and the grand opening of Zoo New York’s season. Five candidates vie for two school board seats, while a Massena man drew a two-year federal sentence for human smuggling. Council also approved bonding up to $12 million to fix a leaking reservoir, and scattered showers are forecast with highs near 60 °F.
Health and Community
Hospital Wing Prom
Hospital staff turned a ward into a dance floor for a high school senior recovering from a severe back injury. Volunteers and a live DJ ensured the teen’s prom night sparkled despite her IV stand.
SPCA Spotlight: Pepper
Pepper, a nine-year-old German Shorthaired Pointer mix, is ready for adoption at the Jefferson County SPCA. This gentle senior arrives spayed, microchipped, and up-to-date on shots, eager for a forever home.
Government and Civic
City Council Meets Tonight
The Watertown City Council convenes at City Hall at 7 PM to review 2025–2026 budget adjustments and local ordinances. Residents can attend in person or stream the meeting online to voice their views on public safety and development.
Planning Board Public Hearings
At 5 PM, the Planning Board opens hearings on a two-lot subdivision proposed by Gurney McCabe and a site plan for Mirabito Holdings’ new fuel facility. Sign permits for Jersey Mike’s and Ashley Furniture, plus a lot-line adjustment request, complete the agenda.
Community Events
20th Annual Mental Health Awareness Walk
Advocates gather at Thompson Park on May 21 for the 20th Annual Mental Health Awareness Walk, raising funds and breaking stigma around mental wellness.
Zoo New York Season Opening
Zoo New York opened its gates this weekend for the busy season, unveiling new exhibits and fundraising campaigns for animal care.
Education and Elections
School Board Race Heats Up
Five candidates, including incumbents and challengers, are vying for two three-year terms on the Watertown City School District board. Candidate forums are scheduled across the district through this week.
Justice and Legal
Massena Man Sentenced
Peter Buckshot, age 28, was sentenced to two years in federal prison for transporting undocumented aliens through the Watertown area. The U.S. Attorney’s Office emphasized the seriousness of cross-border human smuggling.
Infrastructure
Reservoir Replacement Bonding
The City Council approved bonding up to $12 million to replace the leaking reservoir that has lost hundreds of thousands of gallons of treated water daily. Officials must file a preliminary engineering report with the state by the end of May to qualify for grant funding.
Weather Update
Scattered showers are expected through the day with highs near 60 °F and breezy northwest winds. Conditions should begin to clear by late afternoon.
Buck Ramble Wrap-Up
So lace up your rain boots, scope out Pepper at the SPCA, and maybe sneak in a dance move under fluorescent lights. Whether you’re storm-proofing your day or storming the council chamber, keep your umbrella handy and your opinions loud. This is Buck Ramble, signing off until tomorrow’s ripple in 13601!
