Mohawk Valley Living January 2026 Issue

MOHAWK VALLEY

LIVING JANUARY 2026

NEW YEAR

New You

Your Guide to a Better Year With Lisa Briggs & MV Experts

THE GREAT MVL FOOD TOUR

Winter’s Best Soups & Stews

LET’S GO

A Winter Playbook for Outdoor Fun in the Mohawk Valley

FREE

MAGA ZINE TAKE ONE!

HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY HAPPYNEW HAPPY NEW NEW NEW NEW NEWYEAR! YEAR! YEAR! YEAR! YEAR! YEAR!

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MOHAWK VALLEY

LIVING

JANUARY 2026 ISSUE 146 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & OWNER CARRIE BYRNE PUTELO

CREATIVE DIRECTOR COLLEEN INGERTO

DIRECTOR OF INTEGRATED MEDIA & MARKETING LAURYN JOHNS

MEDICAL & HEALTH EDITOR DR. JULEEN QANDAH

STYLE EDITOR AT LARGE

JOANNE DONARUMA WADE

FITNESS EDITOR LISA BRIGGS

HOME EDITOR JILL HAYES

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS SARAH FOSTER CALERO ELIZABETH LEMIRE NAT LEVIN KATIE REILLY BEN SIMONS

FEATURE CONTRIBUTORS CRISTI KAIDO ALYCE SHORT STEPHEN TURNBULL DOUGLAS WALTERS LAURA CANDELLA WEIMER

MARKETING & CONTENT ASSOCIATE MEGAN WRIGHT

CONTACT US: advertising@mohawkvalleyliving.com press@mohawkvalleyliving.com 315-272-7437 Want to receive Mohawk Valley Living delivered to your door?

Stay connected to the best of the Mohawk Valley with our exclusive content on food, entertainment, local businesses, and more! For a limited time, receive a 12 month subscription for just $36. To subscribe visit mohawkvalleyliving.com/subscribe/ Facebook

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Cover Photo: Erin Covey Triple chair ski lift at McCauley Mountain in Old Forge

Copyright ©2026. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of Mohawk Valley Living Entertainment LLC

GIVING YOU A

CONFIDENT SMILE! What Sets Us Apart Dr. Caruso, Dr. Micaroni, Dr. Hamlin and our team want everyone who visits our offices to feel relaxed from the moment they step through our door. People choose our practice because we are friendly, compassionate, straightforward, and honest.

INVISALIGN

Get trusted, specialist care at Caruso Orthodontics

We use the latest technology that make treatment more comfortable, and will work with you to find a care plan that meets your goals and expectations.

And, because we know emergencies don’t always happen during office hours, we provide emergency services, and special hours throughout the day to accommodate any patient having an orthodontic issue.

Our doctors are on call 24/7 for any emergencies or questions that may arise during our patients’ treatment.

Call now for a complimentary consultation.

BRACES

Meet the Team:

DENTOFACIAL ORTHODONTICS

Dr. Paul Caruso, D.D.S.

Dr. Cynthia Micaroni, D.D.S.

Dr. John Hamlin, D.D.S.

Diplomate, American Board of Orthodontics

Diplomate, American Board of Orthodontics

Diplomate, American Board of Orthodontics

www.carusoortho.com

New Hartford

Herkimer

Oneonta

1 Paris Road New Hartford, NY 13413 (315) 724-5800

420 East German Street Herkimer, NY 13350 (315) 866-2344

10 Dietz Street Oneonta, NY 13820 (607) 431-1021

Editor’s Letter Dear Readers, As I welcome the new year with Mohawk Valley Living and with all of you, I keep coming back to how grateful I am for this work. Sharing the places, people, and experiences that make this region so special has been one of the greatest joys of my life. This past year reminded me, again and again, how strong and generous this community is. Being able to tell those stories, shine a light on local talent, and celebrate the things that make the Mohawk Valley feel like home is something I never take for granted.

Every January feels like a fresh start, but this year I found myself thinking less about reinvention and more about resetting in ways that actually feel possible. We live in a world that pushes constant improvement, yet the things that move us forward are usually much simpler. Small shifts. Better habits. Clearer priorities. A little more care for ourselves and the people around us.

Carrie Byrne Putelo Editor-in-Chief & Owner

That is the spirit behind this issue.

Our cover story brings together local experts and voices to explore what a “new you” can look like when it is grounded in real life. From fitness with Lisa Briggs to health with Dr. Juleen Qandah, and to strength, recovery, nutrition, and mental clarity shared by others in our community, each piece offers something you can carry into the new year without the pressure of perfection. It is about choosing what supports you and letting go of the rest.

Our MVL Food Tour with RoAnn Destito is back, and this time we’re keeping warm with the region’s best places for soup. Our Winter Playbook for Outdoor Fun follows the same idea. This is the time of year when the Mohawk Valley can feel quiet, but there is so much to do if you know where to look. Old Forge, outdoor trails, and cold-weather adventures all made the list.

Our MV Grown section looks ahead to the 2026 farm season with a candid look at what the past year taught us and what farmers are preparing for now. No industry reflects resilience quite like agriculture, and this month’s piece reminds us how much work goes into keeping our region fed.

We also have MV At Home with guest editor Jill Hayes, January entertainment, arts, events, and a closer look at the stories that shape life in the Mohawk Valley as we enter a new year.

And in our Giving Back column, I wanted to focus on a different kind of resolution. January tends to be about bettering ourselves, but the most meaningful change often comes from what we do for other people. Choosing one or two organizations to support all year, in whatever way fits your life, can make a real difference. Consistency matters more than scale.

Thank you for beginning 2026 with us. I am excited for everything ahead this year and honored to continue telling the stories of a region I care so deeply about.

With heartfelt gratitude and my warmest wishes for the year ahead,

Carrie

This past year reminded me, again and again, how strong and generous this community is.

4 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

MOHAWK VALLEY

LIVING

IN THIS ISSUE 04

30

Letter From The Editor

UP FRONT 08

Buzzworthy

10

In The Know

14

MV’s Best

See what’s happening this month

Local Gas

16

Be Social

18

Entertainment

Highlighting who was out and about

LIFESTYLE & WELLNESS

47

6 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

54

MV At Home

56

MV Harvest

58

MV Grown

60

MV Arts

FEATURES

62

MV Road Trip

24

CAPTURED

24

MV Eats

The Return of the Great MVL Food Tour

30

New Year, New You

47

The Mohawk Valley’s Winter Playbook

64

The 2026 Nexus Center Home Show

Lentil Salad with Cumin-Lime Vinaigrette

A New Year on the Farm

Celebrating Art, Culture & Community

Giving Back

A New Year of Service

Buzz worthy

Happenings in the Mohawk Valley in January

JAN

1-11 Not-So-Tiny Nutcrackers at Oneida County History Center, Utica Explore the magical world of miniature nutcrackers at the Oneida County History Center from January 1–11. This whimsical exhibit features intricate designs and festive craftsmanship for all ages. The History Center is open Tuesday–Saturday, 10 AM–4 PM. oneidacountyhistory.org/not-so-tiny-nutcrackers

JAN

8-11 The Mitchell Bonspiel Invitational at Utica Curling Club, Whitesboro The historic Mitchell Bonspiel Invitational returns Thurs., Jan. 8 through Sun., Jan. 11 at the Utica Curling Club, 8300 Clark Mills Rd., Whitesboro.

Founded in 1885, this international event features six competitive draws with a four-game guarantee.

JAN

2

Harlem Globetrotters at Adirondack Bank Center, Utica The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters take over Friday, January 2 at Adirondack Bank Center in Utica. Expect trick shots, high-flying dunks, and family-friendly fun as the team puts on its signature basketball show. Tip-off is at 7 PM — grab your seats early and enjoy the spectacle! empirestatetix.evenue.net/events/GTE

JAN

13

Winter Cardinal Paint & Sip at RACC, Rome Join the fun Tuesday, January 13 from 6–8 PM for a Winter Cardinal Paint & Sip at the Rome Art and Community Center, 308 W Bloomfield St., Rome. Create a seasonal painting while enjoying drinks, snacks, and a relaxing night out. Cost is $40 for members and $45 for non-members. https://romeart.org

JAN

8

Woodland Farm Brewery Thursday Trivia Night, Marcy Join the fun Thursday, January 8 at 6:30 PM at Woodland Farm Brewery, 6002 Trenton Rd. in Marcy for Trivia Night — friendly competition, great brews, and a lively atmosphere. Bring a team or play solo and test your knowledge. Check the brewery’s event calendar for start time and details. www.woodlandbeer.com/events

JAN

13

Mark Twain Tonight! At The Stanley, Utica Experience Mark Twain Tonight! on Tuesday, January 13 at 7 PM at The Stanley, as acclaimed actor Richard Thomas brings Twain’s wit, humor, and storytelling to life on stage. A memorable night for literature lovers, theatre fans, and anyone who enjoys a smart evening out. thestanley.org/events/mark-twain-tonight

JAN

JAN

17

Three Kings Day by Mohawk Valley Latino Association, thINCubator, Utica Celebrate Three Kings Day on Saturday, January 17 from 6–8 PM at MVCC’s thINCubator, 326 Broad St., Utica, hosted by the Mohawk Valley Latino Association. Enjoy traditions, culture, and community. Todos son bienvenidos. mvlautica.org/events.html 8 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

JAN

17

1 Wild Night - The Ultimate Bon Jovi Experience, Rome Rock out Saturday, January 17 at 7:30 PM as Rome Capitol Theatre presents One Wild Night — the ultimate Bon Jovi experience — with Best Shot opening at 7:30 PM and One Wild Night at 9 PM. Doors open at 6:45 PM at 220 W Dominick St., Rome. romecapitol.com

17, 24, 31 Cabin Fever Train, Utica Enjoy the Cabin Fever Train on Saturday, January 17, 24 or 31 as you ride from Utica to the Remsen Depot for a cozy campfire, hot chocolate, and s’mores before returning. Each ticket holder receives an Adirondack Railroad campfire mug and all the ingredients for two s’mores. adirondackrr.com/cabin-fever-limited

Buzzworthy

JAN

18

Train Show at Union Station, Utica Explore the Annual Toy Train Show at Union Station, 321 Main St, Utica, on Sunday, January 18, from 9:30 AM to 3 PM! Sponsored by the Toy Train Collectors Society Ltd, the show brings 40+ vendors, 120 tables, operating layouts and displays, plus a sick train clinic for free assessments. Find trains, parts, collectibles and fun for all ages. facebook.com/TTCSUticaTrainShow

JAN

23

Dancing with the Stars LIVE at Turning Stone, Verona Experience Dancing with the Stars LIVE at The Event Center, 5218 Patrick Rd, Verona, NY, on Friday, January 23, 2026 at 8 PM! Enjoy dazzling routines, stunning costumes, and the talent of your favorite pros, plus a special guest star. turningstone.com/entertainment/event-calendar

JAN

7-31 Sarah’s Spotlight: Event of the Month

JAN

24

Community Art Classes at Munson, Utica Explore Community Art Classes at Munson, 310 Genesee St, Utica, beginning on Saturday, January 24. For over 60 years, Munson has offered inspiring classes for kids, teens and adults, taught by professional artists in stateof-the-art studios shared with Pratt Munson. munson.art/community-arts

Ski or Board Under the Lights at Woods Valley, Westernville

JAN

(9100 NY-46, Westernville)

25

Kids Takeover Utica Comets, Utica Kids Takeover Utica Comets at the Adirondack Bank Center on Sunday, January 25, 2026 at 3 PM! For one magical day, kids run the show — from music to game ops and in-arena fun. Expect creativity, chaos, and plenty of laughs as young fans help bring the game to life, with memories for all ages to enjoy. UticaComets.com

JAN

31

-THRU-

For local events and more, visit

FEB

oneidacountytourism.com

1

2026 Home Show at Nexus Center, Utica Visit the 14th Annual Home Show at the Nexus Center Saturday, January 31 from 9 AM–6 PM and Sunday, February 1 from 9 AM–4 PM. Find vendors, expert advice, and inspiration for remodeling, building, décor and more. Presented

by New York Sash. Admission info online and updates posted! HomeShowAtNexusCenter.com

Facebook

Instagram

I grew up snowboarding at Woods Valley and it made me learn at a young age that we’re so fortunate to be a true four-season destination.

Between the amazing renovations, cozy chalet, live music, snowtubing, and of course winter conditions, it’s the perfect time to visit Woods Valley. Enjoy nighttime skiing & snowboarding Wednesdays through Saturdays through 1/31 & experience some adventure under the stars. Night tickets are $45.

More information:

woodsvalleyskiarea.com/night-lift-tickets/ SARAH FOSTER CALERO is President, Oneida County Tourism & Contributing Editor, Mohawk Valley Living

MohawkValleyLiving.com

9

In the Know

By Carrie Byrne Putelo

MVHS: Your Partner in Health In today’s fast-paced world, achieving and maintaining good health is more than just scheduling an occasional doctor’s appointment. It is about building an ongoing relationship with a health system that supports your goals, guides your decisions, and stands beside you through every stage of life. A strong health system is more than a collection of clinics, specialists, and services. It is a trusted partner in your wellness journey, committed to helping you live a healthier, more fulfilling life.

At Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS), that partnership extends from prenatal and primary care through specialty services, emergency care, inpatient hospital services, and post-acute support.

A cornerstone of this partnership is accessibility. That means being a supportive health system that provides care that is easy to reach and simple to navigate. MVHS is striving to do this by removing obstacles that make healthcare

feel complicated or out of reach.

When care is convenient, patients are more likely to stay engaged, ask questions, and make proactive decisions about their health.

Over the next year, MVHS will continue to expand access to care, strengthen the quality of patient care and experience, and grow to meet the healthcare needs of

community members. In addition to clinical care, MVHS is also committed to the broader spectrum of wellness, including mental health, nutrition, preventive screenings, and community support.

overall quality of life in the region.

Through collaborative initiatives and engagement with community organizations, agencies, and foundations, MVHS is striving to help build healthier communities.

MVHS is not only a partner in individual healthcare, but also a community partner focused on improving the health and

Looking ahead to 2026, MVHS remains focused on supporting a healthier year for the Mohawk Valley.

A Taste of Italy, Rooted in the Mohawk Valley Spending an afternoon with Joe Chilelli at the Mohawk Valley Community Market in Herkimer feels less like a visit and more like an introduction to a story still unfolding.

Born in Italy and brought to the United States at just two years old, Joe carries his heritage with intention, but here, it is thoughtfully focused. As owner of Mohawk Valley Community Market, he has transformed a historic former department store into a vibrant, 30,000-square-foot destination built around local vendors, curated retail, and a renewed sense of place.

Throughout the market, antiques, collectibles, vintage finds, and new items fill the space across multiple levels. Vendors like Renewed and Reused contribute to the character of the market, while Joe has also introduced a beautiful selection of antique and like-new furniture on the first floor, creating an inviting entry point that immediately sets the tone for discovery.

After descending the building’s original staircase and weaving through even more collectibles, the atmosphere shifts into a carefully preserved culinary experience tied directly to the building’s history. Tucked into the lower level is Munger’s 1918 Luncheonette, 10 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

where Italian-inspired offerings nod to both Joe’s roots and the legacy of the original Munger’s Department Store. Tables are detailed with newspaper clippings and historic photographs from the department store’s early years, offering a glimpse into the building’s past. Joe even shares that when original light fixtures were discovered in the basement, he worked to have them carefully replicated, preserving continuity and honoring the character of the space.

“It’s the Mohawk Valley’s best-kept secret,” Joe says.

Stone-oven baked personal pizzas are crafted using imported Italian flour and high-quality olive oils. Flavor combinations range from prosciutto with fresh arugula and a balsamic drizzle to rotating specials. One standout features a fried eggplant, zucchini, and pesto,

rich, balanced, and memorable.

The Italian market adjacent to the luncheonette extends this experience with intention. Sfogliatelle are shipped directly from Naples, while Italian pasta and specialty items arrive from Brooklyn. This sourcing mirrors the original Munger’s Department Store, which curated merchandise from New York City to bring big-city style and quality to the Mohawk Valley.

Mohawk Valley Community Market is not about a single theme. It is about thoughtful curation. History meets modern retail through its diverse vendor mix, antiques and collectibles, curated furnishings, and a culinary anchor that honors the building’s origins. Under Joe Chilelli’s direction, the space feels intentional, layered, and distinctly Mohawk Valley.

In the Know

By Carrie Byrne Putelo

Success Circle and the Women Leading a New Era of Connection What Success Circle Offers Success Circle is based in Utica and built for women who want to grow without feeling overwhelmed or isolated. The group offers:

• Monthly Coffee Connections that bring together entrepreneurs, creators, and professionals

• Workshops that focus on time Success Circle is one of the most quietly influential communities rising in the Mohawk Valley right now, and at the heart of it are its co-founders, Tricia Sticca and Christine Spiak. Together, they have built a space where women business owners feel supported, encouraged, and seen. After attending several of their events myself, I can say with confidence that the environment they have created is thoughtful, welcoming, and unlike anything else happening locally.

The Founders Tricia Sticca is a leadership coach and business owner who works closely with clients to help them clarify goals, improve

Tricia Sticca & Christine Spiak, founders of Success Circle

team dynamics, and lead with intention. Her coaching style is grounded in purpose and personal development, which shines through in every Success Circle gathering.

Christine Spiak is a money coach and founder of Compass Financial Wellness. She specializes in financial behavior, debt payoff strategies, budgeting systems, and everyday money confidence.

Christine recently became a Certified Profit First Professional, which allows her to guide business owners through a proven cash flow and profitability framework.

Tricia and Christine are the co-founders of Success Circle, and the mission is clear. They want to give women a place to grow their businesses through genuine connection, practical tools, and shared experience.

After attending their Coffee Connections events myself, I can say they are some of the most worthwhile networking opportunities in the area. The conversations are meaningful, the introductions are genuine, and you walk away with not only ideas and inspiration but also real professional relationships. It

is the type of group where people talk openly about challenges and successes and leave feeling energized rather than drained.

The Accelerator Membership provides women entrepreneurs the tools, resources, and network they need to break through business barriers and achieve the success they’ve been striving for. Participants gain confidence in managing finances, boosting cash flow, mastering time management, and making bold decisions, all while building a supportive network of like-minded women.

What’s New Christine’s Profit First certification is a significant addition to what Success Circle can offer members.

It gives local business owners access to a nationally recognized financial system taught in a oneon-one, personal way. Success Circle has also continued to grow its workshop offerings and its support ecosystem for women balancing business and life.

Tricia recently earned her Professional Certified Coach credential through the International Coaching Federation, a designation

Inclusive Yoga at In Bloom Yoga: Spirit and the Spectrum There is a certain calm you feel the moment you walk into In Bloom Yoga, and it is especially present during Spirit and the Spectrum, a donation-based class created for individuals of all abilities. This is one of those programs that truly shows what community can look like when everyone has a place. Participants of all backgrounds and needs practice together, and the room settles into a rhythm that feels

mastery, business clarity, systems, and mindset

• Financial wellness guidance that helps women understand cash flow and feel confident in their decisions

• A growing network of women

who support one another in both business and life

that reflects advanced skill, deep experience, and a commitment to the highest standards in the coaching profession.

Why It Matters The Mohawk Valley is full of women launching new ventures, growing established businesses, and stepping into leadership roles. Success Circle gives them a professional home base. It provides clarity, structure, and community while keeping connection at the center.

If you are a woman in business looking for direction, support, or simply a strong network, Success Circle is one of the most valuable resources in the region. I have seen firsthand how empowering it is, and I look forward to watching even more women join in. find it to be a grounding hour where they can simply show up as they are.

supportive, gentle, and genuinely welcoming.

The instructor brings training from the Kelberman Center and Asanas for Autism, and you can see that experience reflected

12 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

in every part of the class.

Movements are accessible, visual cues are helpful, and the pacing is steady and comfortable. Families often share that this class gives their loved ones a space to move, breathe, and feel accepted. Others

What stands out most is the warmth. There is no pressure to perform or keep up. The focus is on creating a space where every person feels seen and supported.

It is a beautiful reminder that wellness should feel safe and accessible, and that connection can grow in the simplest moments.

If you are looking for a practice rooted in kindness and community, Spirit and the Spectrum at In Bloom Yoga is a class that truly lifts people up.

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MV’s Best

Fueling FuelingEvery Every Drive Drive

The Gas Across AcrossCentral CentralNew NewYork York TheSteady SteadyPresence Presenceof of Local Local Gas

By Carrie Byr eByr e Putelo

By Carrie Putelo

Family owned operated since 1985, LocalGas Gashas hasbecome becomeaatrusted trusted Family owned andand operated since 1985, Local constant across Central New York.

Alongside its sister companies, Buell constant across Central New York. Alongside its sister companies, Buell Fuel and Center State Propane, the network now serves more than Fuel and Center State Propane, the network now serves more than 35,000 customers across counties throughoutUpstate UpstateNew NewYork, York, 35,000 customers across 55 55 counties throughout supporting homes, businesses, and state agencies alike. supporting homes, businesses, and state agencies alike. heating propane, wood pelletsthat thatkeep keephouseholds households FromFrom heating oil, oil, propane, andand wood pellets warm, to gasoline, diesel fuels, and diesel exhaust fluid that keep daily warm, to gasoline, diesel fuels, and diesel exhaust fluid that keep daily life moving, Local Gas plays a steady role behind the scenes. Drivers life moving, Local Gas plays a steady role behind the scenes. Drivers also benefit from the Buell Fuels Card, which offers weekly Tuesday also billing benefitand from the Buell Fuels Card, which offers weekly Tuesday per-gallon discounts at the pump, adding convenience to billing and per-gallon discounts at the pump, adding convenience to every fill-up. every fill-up.

Peter Clayton Homes of Frankfort, shares; Peter Ryan, Ryan,Home HomeConsultant Consultantforfor Clayton Homes of Frankfort, shares; “Local game changer to my morning routine.

“LocalGas Gashas hasbeen beenananabsolute absolute game changer to my morning routine.

There work week than FreeFree Coffee There isisno nobetter betterway waytotostart startthethe work week than Coffee Mondays Everything is always so so Mondaysand andaafresh freshbreakfast breakfastsandwich. sandwich.

Everything is always clean, quick, and convenient, with a great selection of fresh food clean, quick, and convenient, with a great selection of fresh food options.

Krispy Krunchy Chicken is my options.And Andwhen whenlunchtime lunchtimehits, hits, Krispy Krunchy Chicken is go-to. my go-to.

The staff is extremely friendly and helpful.”

The staff is extremely friendly and helpful.”

That consistency, community focus, and everyday reliability are exactly That consistency, community focus, and everyday reliability are exactly why Local Gas continues to earn its place among MV’s Best.

why Local Gas continues to earn its place among MV’s Best.

Each Local Gas station follows a simple mission: make the stop quick,

Eacheasy, Localand Gas stationLocals follows a simple mission:coffee, make commuters the stop quick, reliable. come in for morning top off easy,their andtanks reliable.

Locals come in for morning coffee, commuters top off before heading to work, and travelers rely on the clean theirlayouts tanks before headingservice to work, and pass travelers relyCentral on the New cleanYork. and consistent as they through layouts and consistent they pass through Central New and Deansboro and York.

Many locations offerservice on-siteas propane refills, Morrisville a step further with full-service for those Many locationsgooffer on-site propane refills, andfueling Deansboro andwho need assistance.

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While every station shares the same dependable foundation, many reflect character of their communities.

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Inside, customers find Krispy Krunchy Chicken and a wide selection of . and customers love starting the week with FREE Coffee Every Monday freshly made food, from breakfast sandwiches to wings and subs.

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In Frankfort, thefrom Localbreakfast Gas Travelsandwiches Plaza supports driversand on the move with a certified CAT Scale, showers, laundry facilities, and ample rest

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Builtthe on recent reliability and shaped by Hill Express in Blossvale the North Shore of Oneida Lake,the it remains local needs, Local Gason continues to fuel every drive across region. rooted in the communities it serves. Built on reliability and shaped by 14 needs, MohawkLocal Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026 drive across the region. local Gas continues to fuel every

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Be Social Out & About in the Mohawk Valley Mohawk Valley Living’s Holiday Celebration Community, conversation, and connection were at the heart of Mohawk Valley Living’s holiday party, with special thanks to our generous sponsors Drs. Nick and Juleen Qandah and CNY Brain & Spine.

The evening brought friends, partners, and collaborators together at 72 Tavern & Grill, where beautifully prepared food, festive drinks, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere set the tone for an easy, memorable night of conversation and celebration. It was exactly the kind of gathering that reflects what the season and our community are all about.

Guests headed home on a sweet note with decadent brownies from The Brownie Company, a delicious way to wrap up a wonderful evening.

16 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

Be Social

Share your Mohawk Valley moments with us!

Please send photos to press@mohawkvalleyliving.com

MohawkValleyLiving.com

17

MV Entertainment

1

JANUARY ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR Mike Zuglan’s 2026 Joss Northeast 9-Ball Turning Stone Classic XLI (1)

2

3

When: January 8–11 Where: The Event Center, Turning Stone Resort Casino, Verona

Oneida County Public Market — Winter Market (2)

When: Saturdays, January, 10 & 24, every other Saturday through April 18th, 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM Where: 321 Main Street, Utica (inside the REA Wing of Union Station)

Mark Twain Tonight! (3) When: January 13, 7:00 PM Where: The Stanley Theatre, 259 Genesee Street, Utica

4

5

Munson Book Club — The Art Spy (4)

When: Tuesday, January 20, 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM Where: Pratt Munson Library, 510 Henry Street, Utica

Dancing With the Stars LIVE! 2026 Tour (5)

When: January 23, 8:00 PM Where: The Event Center, Turning Stone Resort Casino, Verona

6

Buntport Theater: The Rembrandt Room (6) When: Friday, January 30 and Saturday, January 31, 7:30 PM Where: Edwin Barrett Theatre, Hamilton College — Limited seating, reservations suggested

The 14th Annual Home Show at Nexus (7)

7

When: January 31, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM & February 1, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Where: Utica University Nexus Center, 317 Oriskany Street West, Utica

18 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

2nd Annual Sock Toss Game UTICA COMETS VS SYRACUSE CRUNCH JANAURY 9 • 7PM

UTICACOMETS.COM/TICKETS

MV Entertainment

1

THE MUSIC SCENE Uncle Charlie & the Meatballs (1) Where: Vernon Downs Casino When: January 10, 8:00 PM - 12:00 AM Where: The Bunker When: January 31, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

2

3

Rick Stone at Rock Valley Brewing Co (2)

When: January 17, 7:00 PM Where: Rock Valley Brewing Co., 56 West Mill St, Little Falls

1 Wild Night — The Bon Jovi Experience & Best Shot — The Pat Benatar Experience (3) When: January 17, 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM Where: Capitol Theatre, 220 West Dominick St, Rome One night, two powerhouse tribute acts featuring the hits of Bon Jovi and Pat Benatar.

5 4

Midweek Fridays @ Rock Valley Brewing Co (4)

6

When: January 24, 7:00 PM Where: Rock Valley Brewing Co., 56 West Mill St, Little Falls

Chayce Beckham (5)

When: January 24, 8:00 PM Where: The Showroom, Turning Stone Resort Casino, Verona

Lee Brice with Deltona (6)

When: January 30, 8:00 PM Where: The Stanley Theatre, 259 Genesee Street, Utica

20 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

COMING SOON! Forever Seger: The Silver Bullet Experience (7)

When: February 13, 8:00 PM Where: The Showroom, Turning Stone Resort Casino, Verona

7

Let Let it it snow. snow. Let Let it it pour. pour.

BABESUTICA.COM 315.735.0777 80 N. GENESEE ST. UTICA, NY BABESUTICA.COM 315.735.0777 80 N. GENESEE ST. UTICA, NY

MV Entertainment

UticaComets Comets December December Update Utica Update Joe , Director ofofBroadcastin and Media Relations , Utica Comets

By Benson Joe Benson Benson, Director Broadcasting and Media Relations, Comets

By Joe , Director of Broadcastin and Media Relations , Utica Utica Comets

November, December usheredininsome somegood goodfortune fortunefor forthe the LikeLike November, December ushered Utica Comets. their first gameofofthe themonth, month,the theComets Cometspicked picked Utica Comets.

In In their first game their road seasoninina athrilling thrilling4-3 4-3overtime overtime up up their firstfirst road winwin of of thetheseason win in Rochester.

After the Comets went up 3-0 early the win in Rochester. After the Comets went up 3-0 early ininthe second period, the Americans stormed back to tie the game at second period, the Americans stormed back to tie the game at three, but Xavier Parent eventually served as the hero in overtime, three, but Xavier Parent eventually served as the hero in overtime, winning the game for the Comets and helping snap the team’s winning the game for the Comets and helping snap the team’s eight-game skid. eight-game skid.

Two days later, the Comets welcomed the Bridgeport Islanders to Twotown daysand later, the Comets welcomed the Bridgeport to recorded a season high in goals, defeatingIslanders the Islanders town and recorded a season high in goals, defeating the Islanders 5-1 with goals from five different players and eleven players 5-1getting with goals from fivesheet. different players players on the score One of whichand waseleven forward Lenni getting on the score sheet.

One of which forward Hameenaho who has been a shining starwas as of late forLenni Utica, Hameenaho who a shining star as of late for Utica, working his wayhas to been the top of the leaderboard in scoring.

Jakub working to the top of the leaderboard in scoring.

Malekhis wasway terrific in net, making 30 saves in route to his Jakub first Malek was terrific making 30 saves in route to his first professional winininnet, North America. professional win in North America.

The Comets traveled to Allentown to face the Lehigh Valley the nextto night and despite trailing 2-0 entering ThePhantoms Comets traveled Allentown to face the Lehigh Valleythe third period, managed erase the deficit overtime.

Phantoms the next night to and despite trailingand 2-0force entering the Dmitri Osipov scoredtohiserase first goal of the and season early in the third third period, managed the deficit force overtime. period and then Kyle the game justin1:27 left, a Dmitri Osipov scored hisCriscuolo first goaltied of the seasonwith early the third shorthanded the second game. period and thengoal Kylefor Criscuolo tiedstraight the game withThe justPhantoms 1:27 left, a ultimately goal won in butstraight it was a game. well-earned point for shorthanded forovertime, the second The Phantoms Utica who extended its point streak to three games to startforthe ultimately won in overtime, but it was a well-earned point month of December.

Utica who extended its point streak to three games to start the month of December.th On December 10 , the Comets welcomed Syracuse to town, their sixth meeting of the season against the Crunch and still in search On December 10th, the Comets welcomed Syracuse to town, their of their first win against them. The Comets exercised some sixth meeting of the season against the Crunch and still in search 22 their Mohawk Magazine 2026 exercised some of firstValley win Living against them.JANUARY The Comets

demons of of 3-2, extending their demonsand andedged edgedthe theCrunch Crunchbybya ascore score 3-2, extending their point was Utica defenseman point streak streaktotofour. four.Playing Playinga apivotal pivotalrole role was Utica defenseman Dmitri game forfor thethe firstfirst time Dmitri Osipov Osipovwho whonetted nettedtwo twogoals goalsininthethe game time in his AHL career.

Seamus Casey also picked up his first goal of in his AHL career. Seamus Casey also picked up his first goal of the season which stood to be the game winner. the season which stood to be the game winner.

Amidst the streak of success, the Comets lost a couple key players Amidst the streak of success, the Comets lost a couple key players to injury and had a few players called up to New Jersey. One of to injury had Angus a few players calledwho up to Newup Jersey.

One of them wasand forward Crookshank, picked his first th them was forward Angus Crookshank, who picked up his first goal as a Devil on December 11 thagainst Tampa Bay. Forward goal as a Devil on December 11 against Tampa Bay. Forward Xavier Parent, who had led the Comets in scoring prior to his Xavier made Parent, ledthat the same Comets in scoring prior to his callup, hiswho NHLhad debut game.

Defenseman Colton callup,has made NHL debut thatsteady samereps game.

Colton White alsohis continued to get in aDefenseman Devils uniform White his hascallup, also continued getrating steady reps in aassists Devilsthrough uniform during recording to a +4 and three during callup, recording a +4 rating three assists his first his 13 games, including the helper onand Crookshank’s firstthrough goal his first games, including the helper on Crookshank’s first goal with New13Jersey. with New Jersey.

Utica will round out the month with some key divisional matchups Rochester, Toronto Belleville, as well as a Utica will against round out the month withand some key divisional tough Atlantic Division foe in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. matchups against Rochester, Toronto and Belleville, as well as a tough Atlantic Division foe in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton.

The Comets' upcoming schedule is jam-packed with games and funschedule theme nights, such as The home Comets' upcoming is jam-packed the Red Out game on December 27th at 6 p.m. andas with home games and fun theme nights, such much more coming up in January. the Red Out game on December 27th at 6 p.m. and much more coming up in January.

Don't miss out on all that the Adirondack Bank Centermiss has out to offer! tickets, fans can visit Don't on allFor that the Adirondack Bank uticacomets.com/tickets or call 315-970-9070.

Center has to offer! For tickets, fans can visit uticacomets.com/tickets or call 315-970-9070.

MV Eats

MVL

Food Tour

with RoAnn Destito

By Carrie Byrne Putelo

There is something about winter in the Mohawk Valley that makes a steaming bowl of something comforting feel like pure joy. And for us, this tour has become a tradition.

Our first outing took us across the region on an unforgettable ice cream adventure. The second brought us to orchards and farms in search of the best cider and donuts. Now in our third installment of the MVL Food Tour, RoAnn Destito and I set our sights on the warm and hearty dishes that get us through the cold months.

Soups and stews.

If ice cream was about nostalgia and cider and donuts were about seasonal charm, this winter tour focused on comfort, richness, and the kitchens that have mastered the art of warming you from the inside out. And just like a good soup or stew, these tours have become something slow built and meaningful for us.

Every stop is seasoned with friendship, stories, and the kind of laughter that makes the whole experience feel even richer. Together we hit the road with one purpose.

Find the coziest bowls across the Mohawk Valley and share the verified details so you can plan your own tour.

1. Crust Kitchen and Bar 86 Hangar Road West, Suite 101, Rome • (315) 356-8000 We kicked things off in Rome with a classic chili that set the tone for the entire tour. This bowl has everything you want. Beef, peppers, onions, kidney beans, and a deep, slow simmered flavor that tells you the recipe has been perfected over time. It is served with shredded cheese, sour cream, and enough slices of their signature bread to share.

We were also lucky that Chris Destito, co-owner of Crust with Frank Belmonte, was in the house. Not only is he half of the creative team behind Crust’s incredible sandwiches, he is also RoAnn’s son, which made the stop feel especially meaningful. And when I say incredible, I mean truly incredible. If you have not had one of Crust’s sandwiches, consider this your sign. They really are that good. And of course try the chili or their soup of the day while you are at it.

Rich, filling, and exactly what you want on a cold winter day.

I would absolutely order it again.

24 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

MV Eats

2. Symeon’s Greek Restaurant 4941 Commercial Drive, Yorkville • (315) 736-4074

We continued our tour at one of the most beloved restaurants in the Mohawk Valley. Symeon’s Greek Chicken Soup is a bowl of pure comfort. The lemon brightens the broth, the egg creates a silky finish, and the Pastina brings that familiar warmth everyone loves. Shredded chicken adds heartiness to every spoonful. It feels medicinal and soul warming and is exactly what you crave on a cold winter day.

Symeon himself stopped by our table, just as he is known to do with every table, and the hospitality was incredible. We shared a great moment with him, full of laughs and stories.

Experiences like that remind you why dining here always feels special.

4. Mel’s at 22 22 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown • (607) 322-4012 Cooperstown gave us two exceptional soups and the perfect way to end day 1.

Chicken and Rice Soup A classic made with generous pieces of chicken, fresh vegetables, rice, and a broth that warms you immediately. Light, comforting, full of flavor, and ideal for a cold afternoon in Cooperstown. I loved it so much that I brought some home to my daughter, who has been a little under the weather, so she could have it for dinner.

New England Clam Chowder Thick, creamy, and full of clams. Potatoes, onions, celery, and that unmistakable coastal flavor make this one of the best chowders we have had.

RoAnn has spent plenty of time in Cape Cod and said this rivals anything she has tasted there.

3. Café Daniele

And with that, day two was officially underway.

1556 Mohawk Street, Utica • (315) 724-5821 At Café Daniele we found a mushroom stew that defines winter comfort. The dish arrives bubbling and fragrant with mushrooms, sausage, peppers, and onions.

It is served over pasta cooked perfectly al dente. A longtime customer leaned over to tell us it was the best he had ever had and that he had been coming there for years. Fresh, generous, full of high quality ingredients, and absolutely packed with sausage.

We were also joined by The Honorable Supreme Court Justice Bernadette Clark, who lit up the table with her warmth and conversation. It was such a pleasure to see her, and she loved the mushroom stew just as much as we did.

A standout stop on the tour.

MohawkValleyLiving.com

25

MV Eats

5. Pumpernickel’s Deli 120 Genesee Street, Center Court, New Hartford • (315) 735-8121 Pumpernickel’s delivered not one, but three standout bowls that reminded us why this longtime favorite continues to feel like home for so many in the Mohawk Valley.

The Sausage and Bean Soup was hearty and deeply satisfying, packed with celery, carrots, and a variety of beans that gave each bite texture and warmth. It is the kind of soup that feels both nourishing and indulgent at the same time.

The Chicken Florentine Soup was another highlight. Loaded with tender chicken, celery, carrots, and orzo, it was rich without being heavy

and comforting in the way only a well-balanced chicken soup can be.

And for mushroom lovers, the Mushroom Stew did not disappoint. Sausage, peppers, mushrooms, red sauce, and perfectly al dente rigatoni come together in a bold, flavorful dish that feels like a full meal in a bowl. Each option felt generous, thoughtfully prepared, and exactly what winter calls for.

6. Peter ’s Cornucopia Inc.

38 New Hartford Shopping Center, New Hartford • (315) 724-4998 At Peter’s Cornucopia, we found two soups that felt deeply rooted in comfort and tradition, with a third tempting option also on the board that day.

The Chicken and Dumplings was absolutely delicious. A creamy broth filled with chunks of chicken, carrots, and celery, paired with soft, pillowy dumplings that instantly brought to mind the center of a chicken pot pie. The dumplings act like a tender, comforting crust, soaking up the flavor while keeping the dish light enough to finish every bite. Served hot and satisfying, this one truly stood out.

The Moroccan Lentil Soup offered something a little different while still feeling familiar. Lentils, carrots, celery, and onion come together with warm Moroccan

26 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

spices that are flavorful without being overpowering. It is balanced, comforting, and especially fitting for the season. And for those who follow tradition, lentils on New Year’s Day symbolize good luck for the year ahead, making this bowl feel even more meaningful.

They also had a Broccoli Cheddar Soup available that day, adding another classic, comforting option to an already strong lineup.

MV Eats

8. Crazy Otto’s Empire Diner

100 West Albany Street, Herkimer • (315) 866-8801 Crazy Otto’s delivered a true diner classic with their Beef Vegetable Soup, and it was exactly what you hope for when you order it.

7. Roso’s Cafe Catering 185 Genesee Street, 2nd Floor, Utica • (315) 735-7676

This bowl was loaded with big chunks of beef, potatoes, carrots, peas, onions, celery, corn, and green beans, all in a tomatobased clear beef broth. Hearty, rustic, and full of vegetables, it felt like a soup that has been perfected over years of daily specials and loyal regulars. Crazy Otto’s is known for its breakfast, burgers, sandwiches, and comfort-driven menu, and this soup fits right in.

RoSo’s brought us the first bisque of the tour, and it did not disappoint.

The Sweet Potato Bisque was creamy, smooth, and full of flavor, offering a slightly sweet, comforting profile that felt perfect for winter. Warm, well-balanced, and deeply satisfying, it stood out as something a little different on the tour.

A downtown Utica staple, RoSo’s is known for its fresh and creative sandwiches and salads, along with weekly specials that keep locals coming back. It is a go-to spot for lunch and takeout, and their ever-changing soup menu, including vegetarian-friendly options, makes it an easy favorite for anyone looking for variety and thoughtful, well-prepared food.

9. WuKong Asian

together in a well-balanced broth that feels authentic and satisfying. The texture, depth, and seasoning made this one of the most memorable hot and sour soups we have had.

435 Main Street, New York Mills • (315) 316-0996

The Dumpling Soup was equally impressive.

A light chicken broth with a subtle hint of sesame oil sets the stage for delicate porkfilled dumplings topped with scallions. The dumplings themselves are small, tender, and wrapped in a thin skin that avoids heaviness and lets the filling shine. It leans more toward a refined dumpling soup than a traditional wonton soup, and it was absolutely delicious.

Restaurant

WuKong brought bold flavor and balance to the tour with two exceptional soups.

The Hot and Sour Soup was rich and deeply flavorful without being overly spicy.

Mushrooms, tofu, bamboo shoots, cabbage, egg, and wood ear mushrooms come

The bowls may be empty, but the adventure isn’t over. This winter tour was all about comfort, connection, and the local kitchens that bring our community together. Thank you for being part of it. RoAnn and I will be back soon with our next MVL Food Tour!

MohawkValleyLiving.com

27

The Restaurant Guide Fresh Haddock Giambotta 9663 River Rd., Marcy

Mushroom Stew Chicken & Biscuits Meatloaf Goulash & More!

315-797-7709

Family-owned restaurant, for over 40 years, serving traditional Lebanese dishes such as chicken kabobs & hummus.

Snap the QR code to see our hours and menu on our Facebook page.

623 French Road New Hartford, NY 13413 315-733-2709

Sheri’s

EASTSIDE DINER

Happy Hour Daily 4-7, $3 Domestic Drafts & $3.50 Well Mixers

Tuesday: All-U-Can-Eat Spaghetti Wednesday: Pasta and Boneless Wings Specials Thursday: All-U-Can-Eat Chicken Riggies

Serving all you favorite homemade comfort foods! Breakfast served all day!

Take Out & Delivery!

Serving Lunch & Dinner Lunches Served Friday & Saturday

Mon-Thu 6am-1pm, Fri 6am-7pm, Sat 6am-Noon, Sun 7am-Noon

Outside

Breakfast, Lunch, Seating & Grab-and-Go Deliveries, Available!

Take Out & Catering!

Check out our weekly specials on facebook and at www.rososcafe.com

Open: Monday-Friday: 8-2 185 Genesee St 2nd Floor, Utica

315 735-7676

Call us to cater your work or family events!

409 Oriskany Blvd., Whitesboro • (315) 736-7869 CRUST KITCHEN & BAR Catering & Banquet Facilities Available • www.69steakhouse.com

Watch Mohawk Valley Living TV every Sunday 7:30 AM on WKTV & Voted Best of PM on WFXV.#1 “We 10:30 are your home the Best!

town pizzeria!”

Order online or on our app!

Open 7 Days a Week

315-736-4549

4462 Commercial Dr. www.tonyspizzeriaanddeli.com

best burgersVoted Top 10 around! in NYS for

best burgers!

Friday Fish Fry!

Breakfast • Lunch

11:30am-8pm

Family Homemade owned and operated, Ohio Tavern offers a cozy, consistent dining experience & Fresh Daily! where everything is cooked in-house by the husband-and-wife team. The 40-seat dining room delivers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that draws in both locals pe Open n and visitors, especially snowmobilers. The Tavern is a favorite destination for O riders, frid friday located on trail C4. The trails in Ohio are beautiful & impeccably maintained byay fofor r DinDinner! ner! volunteers from the local snowmobile club, The Ohio Ridge Riders.

The menu spotlights creative specials alongside snowmobilers favorites, including Open Mon-Sun Friday Fishand Fry •stews, Breakfast Servedwings All Dayand a variety of appetizers. hearty soups burgers, 7am-7pm or later 1717 Rt. 8, Cassville St.,NY;Utica 790-5250 27552199 NY‑8,Bleecker Cold Brook, (315)(315) 826‑5050; Open Wed–Sat 12–9pm; Sun 12–8pm; Winter Mon–Tue closed.

Hours: M-Th 7-2 Friday 7am-8pm Open 7 Days a Week: 6am-2pm, Sunday 7am-2pm Fri 7-8, Sat 7-1, Sun 7-Noon

Breakfast Sandwiches Deli-Style Wraps/Sandwiches Salads, Soups & more!

Homemade Baked Goods & Multi-Color Bagels - a kid’s favorite!

2 Locations: 219 N. Genesee St., Utica 1401 Oriskany Street W., Utica

(315) 790-5353 • Open 7 Days a Week

Free Delivery (min. $25) • Family Owned & Operated!

87 years

Catch recent episodes serving theon YouTube Mohawk Valley! @MohawkValleyLivingTV Visit our 2 locations: Oriskany Blvd., Yorkville • Ilion Marina, 190 Central Ave, Ilion

Contemporary American • Private Functions • Reservations Recommended

900 Culver Ave., Utica • 315-765-0271 • Open Wed-Sat 4:30-8pm Visit www.willowsofutica.com

ite rt ved

Fresh Haddock Giambotta 9663 River Rd., Marcy

Take Out & Delivery!

s

E R

y

e50 2 n

315-797-7709

Serving Serving Fresh Haddock Giambotta Mushroom StewLunch & Dinner Lunch & Dinner Lunches Served Friday & Saturday

Lunches Served Family-owned Friday & Saturday restaurant, Chicken & Biscuits for over 40 years, serving Happy HourGoulash Daily 4-7, Domestic Drafts & $3.50 Well Mixers Meatloaf &$3 More! traditional Lebanese Happy Hour Daily 4-7, $3 Domestic Drafts & $3.50 Well Mixers dishes such as chicken kabobs & hummus.

Tuesday:

All-U-Can-Eat Spaghetti Tuesday: All-U-Can-Eat Spaghetti Breakfast, Lunch, Deliveries, Call us to cater Call us to cater your work or Wednesday: Pasta and Boneless Wings Specials your work or Take Out & Catering!

Wednesday:family Pastaevents! and Boneless Wings Specials family Check out our weekly specials on Thursday: All-U-Can-Eat Chicken RiggiesThursday: All-U-Can-Eat Chicken RiggiesSnap the QR code to events! see our facebook and at www.rososcafe.com

hours and menu on our Open: Monday-Friday: 8-2 page.

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On the Cover

NEW YEAR NEW YOU

A new year invites a fresh look at how we move, think, live, and care for ourselves and this month, a team of trusted experts helps shape that reset. We open with cover model and fitness expert Lisa Briggs, whose perspective on consistency, courage, and simply showing up for yourself sets the tone for the year ahead. From there, Financial Health expert Doug Walters CFA, Dr. Juleen Qandah, Psychotherapist Alyce Short, Leadership & Professional Growth expert Stephen Turnbull, home and lifestyle expert Laura Weimer, and Certified Nutrition & Wellness Coach, Cristi Kaido each bring their own lens on well-being, creating a thoughtful, wellrounded start to the year.

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU:

How Consistency, Courage, and Joy Shape a Stronger 2026

By Lisa Briggs, Cover Model, New Year New You Issue When I was invited to be the cover model for this issue, I felt deeply honored. Being featured here is not just a celebration of fitness. It is a celebration of what it means to keep showing up for yourself year after year, even when life is busy, even when the path is challenging, and even when the finish line feels far away. As I look toward my fiftieth birthday in 2026, I can say with complete honesty that I am healthier, stronger, and more grounded now than I was at twenty-five. And I want every person reading this to know that if I can do it, you can do it too.

Fitness did not transform my life because I chased perfection.

It transformed my life because I committed to consistency. Because I learned to make space for myself. Because I found forms of movement I genuinely enjoy. And because I stopped seeing hard work as punishment and started seeing it as a pathway that leads directly toward the life I want to live.

You can find me somewhere in between inspiring others, working on myself, dodging negativity, and slaying my goals. That sentence has guided so much of my journey. It reminds me that we are all works in progress. We are all balancing responsibilities, stress, families, careers, grief, hope, and ambition. But showing up again and again creates a rhythm that carries you forward.

Once you build that rhythm, fitness stops feeling like a chore and starts becoming something you look forward to.

30 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

On the Cover Persistence Is a Muscle and You Can Build It Persistence is the cornerstone of everything we do at Fit Body Boot Camp in Clinton and Whitesboro.

People often assume transformation is about motivation, but motivation is fleeting. Persistence is what shows up for you when motivation fades. Persistence is the quiet promise you make to yourself every morning. Persistence is the belief that you do not have to set records. You simply have to keep going.

My clients hear me say this every day. Consistency beats intensity. Anyone can crush one tough workout. But showing up three, four, or five times a week is where the real change happens. That is where confidence builds. That is where your body learns to trust you again.

And consistency does not mean perfection. If you miss a day or lose momentum, you do not start over. You simply start again. That mindset shift alone changes everything.

Movement Should Never Feel Like a Punishment One of the most important lessons I have learned, and one I teach in both of my studios, is if it doesn’t challenge you, it’ll never change you, but challenging yourself doesn’t have to feel like a punishment. It should feel purposeful. It should feel empowering. It should feel fun.

Hard work is not a punishment. It is a pathway to your dreams. Own it and keep going.

At Fit Body Boot Camp, we focus on workouts that energize rather than exhaust. We build community. We laugh. We cheer each other on. We celebrate small wins. Because when fitness is enjoyable, it becomes part of your lifestyle instead of something you check off a list.

The more joy you feel while you move, the more sustainable your progress becomes.

Before and After Is About Possibility People know my studios for our before and after results, but what

I want readers to understand is that the real transformation happens long before the photos are taken. The visible change is simply evidence of something deeper.

It is evidence of belief in yourself.

Just because something feels hard does not mean it is impossible. Some of the most remarkable transformations I have witnessed did not begin with motivation.

They began with doubt. People came in feeling unsure, overwhelmed, and intimidated. But they decided to show up. They kept showing up. And over time, they proved to themselves that they could do hard things.

That belief is where everything begins. When you stop convincing yourself that change is out of reach, you step into a new version of yourself that is defined by strength and confidence.

The Power of Early Mornings Making time for yourself can feel impossible in a world full of responsibilities. But the most powerful thing you can do is carve out even a small window of your day for your own wellbeing.

Making time for yourself matters.

Early mornings can be the most peaceful time for self-care. There are so many benefits to waking up earlier, even on a Sunday.

I always tell clients that if you own your morning, you own your day. Whether it is a workout, a quiet cup of coffee, stretching, or a short walk, that early moment sets your tone. You start from a place of clarity, strength, and self-respect.

It is not about discipline as punishment. It is about creating space in your life to breathe, reflect, and prepare. When you give yourself that space, everything else feels more manageable.

Do It for Your Future Self As I move toward fifty, I find myself thinking often about the way time reshapes our priorities. I am more grateful than ever that I chose to invest in myself long before I fully understood the long-term impact. Strength is a gift. Mobility is a gift. Energy is a gift. These are not things to take for granted. They are things we

TOP 10 THINGS FOR A BETTER YOU THIS YEAR

1 do not feel ready. Progress Show up even when you begins with simply being present.

2 enjoy. Joy makes habits stick.

Strength train twice a 3 week. Strength supports Choose movement you

4

5 Momentum builds through Celebrate small wins.

progress, not perfection.

6 Even ten minutes creates

Make mornings your time. clarity and energy.

7 on nourishment and hydration.

Build a supportive 8 community. Surround yourself Fuel your body wisely. Focus

with people who want you to succeed.

balance, metabolism, and overall wellness.

9 essential to performance and

Set weekly intentions. A simple plan creates powerful consistency.

10 hard things. Because you are,

can nurture and protect through steady, mindful movement.

What I want for every reader is the same thing I want for myself.

A life filled with longevity, freedom, and vitality. Fitness is not about perfection. It is about caring for the future version of yourself and recognizing that even the smallest effort creates a ripple.

You do not need the perfect plan or the perfect timing. You simply need to begin.

When 2026 brings my fiftieth birthday, I will step into it feeling better in my body than I did in my twenties. That did not happen overnight. It happened because I kept showing up even when the

Prioritize rest. Recovery is

mental health.

Believe you are capable of and your results will prove it.

process felt slow. It happened because I found joy in movement.

It happened because I stopped giving up on myself. And that is something every person reading this is capable of.

I also know I did not walk this journey alone. I am endlessly thankful for my husband, my boys, my friends, my family, and my Fit Body Boot Camp family who helped make 2025 such an incredible year. Their support, encouragement, and belief in me pushed me forward in ways words cannot fully express.

Here is to another great year of growth, strength, and showing up for ourselves.

MohawkValleyLiving.com

31

On the Cover

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU:

Build Financial Clarity and Confidence for 2026

By Douglas Walters, CFA Strategic Financial Here’s a question: Why do most New Year’s resolutions fail by February? It’s not because we’re lazy—it’s because lasting change is hard, and relying on willpower alone is an uphill battle.

But here’s the good news: the improvements we aim for each January can have a profound impact on overall well-being. Research shows1 that life satisfaction stems from a mix of career, social, physical, community, and yes—financial health.

I’ll leave diet and exercise advice to the experts (still working on that myself). But when it comes to your wallet and retirement plan, that’s my lane. So, let’s dive in.

Start Small: The Power of Marginal Gains It’s time to start thinking small.

Instead of chasing sweeping changes that are hard to maintain, focus on small, consistent wins. Consider Sir Dave Brailsford, who transformed a sub-par British cycling team by applying a philosophy of “marginal gains”—tiny, evidence-based im-

THREE ACTION STEPS FOR 2026 Ready to start? Here’s a simple framework to kick off the year:

1 clarity on what is most

provements like better aerodynamics, avoiding handshakes to minimize illness, and even painting the team truck floor white to spot dust. The result? Eight gold medals at the Beijing Olympics.

Your financial life works the same way. Small, achievable steps can compound into big results over time.

Think Holistically, Act Incrementally One problem we all face is knowing where to start. A comprehensive financial plan covers significant ground:

• Goals: What matters most to

you?

• Budget: Are you tracking and sticking to it?

• Taxes: Are you saving and giving efficiently?

• Retirement: Will your resources last?

• Investments: Are they aligned with your risk tolerance?

• Insurance: Are you protected from life’s curveballs?

• Estate: Are your documents in order?

• Education: Are you saving for loved ones?

That’s a lot, and it is only scratching the surface of a good plan.

Trying to tackle everything at once is overwhelming. Instead, put your British cycling helmet on, and break it down into small incremental improvements.

Update Your Goals: Get important to you today.

2 Choose 1-3 achievable actions Take a Few Baby Steps:

you can take today to better your plan.

3 Check-Up: A fresh

Schedule a Financial perspective from a trusted advisor can uncover opportunities and risks you might miss.

32 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

Clarity and Confidence So, where to start? I would recommend beginning by creating clarity around what is most important to you today. When you know what matters most and have a plan to get there, everything feels less overwhelming. Begin with the essentials:

• Never created a budget or emer-

gency fund? That’s step one.

• A house and family, but no will or life insurance? Start there.

• Not maxing out your 401(k)?

Consider bumping contributions by 1%.

• Unsure if your investments match your goals? Take time to review and adjust.

These aren’t dramatic changes— they’re small, achievable steps contributing to momentum that can build and compound over time.

Focus on progress, not perfection.

Confidence comes next. It’s what happens when clarity turns into action. When you can see the roadmap and measure progress, you feel more secure about the future.

That sense of confidence isn’t just about numbers; it’s about peace of mind. Like the British cycling team, incremental improvements can transform an average plan into an exceptional one.

The new year is about fresh starts.

If you want clarity and confidence in your financial life, now is a great time to take action. Remember: small steps forward can lead to big results over time.

Douglas Walters is the Chief Investment Officer at Strategic Financial Services, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute personalized investment advice.

1. Gallup. (2010, May 4). The five essential elements of well-being.

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On the Cover

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU:

A Doctor’s Guide to Resetting Your Health in 2026

By Dr. Juleen Qandah, Emergency Physician & MV Living Medical Editor A new year naturally inspires us to refresh our goals, declutter our homes, and reset our routines, but it’s also the perfect time to hit “reset” on your health. Not with trendy cleanses or unrealistic resolutions, but with evidencebased choices that create longterm vitality.

Think of January as your annual

medical audit. The same way we winterize cars, review finances, or purge closets, we should recalibrate the body: update screenings, rethink habits, tune up mental health, and set ourselves up for a year of strong energy, disease prevention, and longevity.

Below is your 2026 Medical Reset Checklist, tailored by age group and sex, and infused with practical, empowering tips to help you walk into the new year with clarity and confidence.

THE “NEW YEAR, NEW YOU” MINDSET Before we get into screening lists, here’s the paradigm shift:

Health isn’t simply the absence of disease; it’s the presence of capacity.

Energy. Strength. Sleep. Mental clarity.

Stress resilience. Mobility. Joy.

In 2026, let’s focus less on restriction and more on replenishment:

• Add foods that support you, not diets that punish you • Add movement you enjoy, not workouts you dread • Add relationships and routines that give you oxygen • Add medical knowledge so you can advocate for yourself A new you means you understand your body and use that knowledge to thrive.

 Skin Check We have fewer sunny days, yet skin cancers still show up in January exams. Do a self-check or book dermatology.

 Dental & Vision Prevention beats repair — especially with gum health’s connection to heart disease.

 Update Vaccines THE UNIVERSAL HEALTH CHECKLIST Updated Labs  (every 1–2 years unless high risk)

• CBC/CMP (baseline health) • Lipid panel • A1c • TSH (especially women >40) • ApoB & Lipoprotein(a) if family

 Blood Pressure Check Hypertension remains a silent cause of stroke and heart disease in our region.

Aim for <130/80.

 Mental Health Screening

history of heart disease

Ten minutes with a PHQ-9 or GAD-7 can save years of silent suffering.

in Upstate NY winters)

Normalize this: everyone should check in on their stress, mood, and sleep.

• Vitamin D (common deficiency

34 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

• Flu (yearly) • COVID booster (if due) • Tetanus/Tdap (every 10 years) • Shingles (50+) • Pneumonia (65+, or younger if chronic illness)

Health and Science Made Simple A seminar series presented by MMRI and Mohawk Valley Living.

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E-Cigarettes: Understanding Effects on the Heart

PTSD: From Trauma to Treatment

Autism: What the Research Really Says

Peripheral Vascular Disease and Spinal Injury

Cannabis and Health: A Scientific Look at CBD

This free seminar series is open to the public.

Location: Masonic Medical Research Institute | 2150 Bleecker St., Utica For the latest seminar series dates and speaker lineups, please visit mmri.edu/seminarseries.

On the Cover

AGE & SEX–BASED HEALTH CHECKLISTS

• Thyroid screening every 1–2 years • Colon cancer screening starting at 45 • Review perimenopause symptoms:

TOP 10 MEDICAL TESTS TO KICK OFF THE NEW YEAR

2

4

Treat stress like blood pressure - measure, manage, and monitor.

Meditation, therapy, journaling, proper sleep hygiene.

8 (Colonoscopy or

Colon Cancer Screening Cologuard): If you’re 45+, this saves lives by catching polyps before they become cancer.

factor - The Mohawk Valley has a higher-than-average rate of premature Coronary Artery Disease, making this extremely important.

Hemoglobin A1c: Shows your average blood sugar over the last 3 months.

Detects diabetes years earlier than fasting glucose.

9 Screening: Depending on

Mammogram or Prostate sex. Early detection reduces mortality by up to 40%.

10 don’t know osteoporosis

fatigue, jaw pain, or shortness of breath may be more common than chest pain.

After age 40, you lose 1% of muscle each year unless you strength train. Muscle mass is one of the strongest predictors of longevity and independence.

Upstate New Yorkers have some of the highest Vitamin D deficiency rates in the country. It’s

sympathetic tone and inflammation.

Stable blood sugar beats willpower.

Small swaps go far: fiber first, protein centered meals, limiting sugary drinks, and prioritizing whole foods.

nearly 70% of adults are deficient, affecting immunity, mood, and bone health.

Lipid Panel + ApoB: ApoB is the true particle count that predicts heart disease more accurately than LDL alone.

Women’s heart disease looks different and often gets missed. Nausea,

Sleep deprivation elevates blood pressure the very next day. Just one bad night boosts

pickleball, winter hikes, strength training, dance - joy fuels consistency.

Vitamin D Level: Upstate

DEXA Scan: Most people starts silently in your 40s.

A DEXA scan reveals bone strength early.

High-Sensitivity CRP: A

Data shows small, consistent movement is more powerful than sporadic intense workouts.

These are simple, powerful shifts to carry into the whole year.

7 NY’s long winters mean

5 measure of inflammation

Walking just 8 minutes a day lowers your allcause mortality by 15%.

Mental

Checks liver, kidney function, and electrolytes - your body’s “operating system” status.

Lipoprotein(a): A

testing identify risk long before plaque becomes dangerous.

3 Hygiene

40 have particularly high rates of undiagnosed thyroid disease.

3 genetically inherited risk

Your heart attack risk is measurable 10–20 years before you ever feel a symptom. ApoB and Lp(a)

Metabolic

Thyroid Panel (TSH ±

Comprehensive

DID YOU KNOW?

2 Health First

6 Free T4/T3): Women over

1 Metabolic Panel (CMP:

sleep, hot flashes, metabolism shifts • Heart health assessment: ApoB, Lp(a), A1c, blood pressure Women Men • Pap smear every 3 years • Colon cancer screening starting at 45 • HPV vaccination if not completed • Prostate cancer discussion at 50 (or 45 • Discuss menstrual irregularities, if African American or family history) fertility plans, or PCOS symptoms • Cholesterol, ApoB, A1c every 1–2 years • Baseline cholesterol by age • Abdominal aortic aneurysm ultrasound 20; ApoB if family history once at 65 if ever smoked Mental health/lifestyle check: sleep, • stimulant use, stress load, exercise routine • Testosterone symptoms review (fatigue, muscle loss, libido changes) Men Blood pressure yearly • AGES 65+ • Cholesterol screening at least once This is about optimizing longevity in 20s; earlier if family history and mobility, not limiting life.

• Testicular self-exam monthly Mental health and alcohol-use check • Key Priorities: — men under 40 are often overlooked • Annual Medicare Wellness Visit • STD screening if at risk • Fall-risk screening • Cognitive screening (normalizes AGES 40–64 the conversation early) This is the decade where early • Vision + hearing checks detection changes everything.

• Vaccines: shingles, pneumonia, flu, COVID Women • Continue cancer screenings as • Annual mammogram beginning at 40 appropriate for life expectancy and health • Bone density test (DEXA) if post• Consider cardiology review if BP, menopausal or risk factors lipids, or symptoms have changed

AGES 18–39

THE 5-PILLAR 1 Movement You Enjoy HEALTH RESET Walking,

- elevated levels correlate with cardiovascular disease risk.

the long winter + indoor lifestyle and it affects mood, immunity, and bone health.

4 Screenings Preventive

Most life-threatening illnesses give warning signs years in advance. Testing is empowerment.

Most colon cancers start as polyps that could have been removed years earlier. A colonoscopy is preventive, not diagnostic.

Mental burnout mimics medical illness: brain fog, palpitations, dizziness, fatigue.

A mental health check-in often changes someone’s entire year.

Hydration alone can improve headaches, energy, and kidney function. Most adults are mildly dehydrated, especially in the winter.

People with strong social ties live 5–7 years longer.

Community is literally medicine.

5 & Purpose

Community

Social connection strongly predicts longevity - stronger than exercise in some studies. Join a group, volunteer, create a routine that lifts you.

The goal of a new year isn’t perfection. It’s awareness. When you understand your body, your risks, and your strengths, you step into the year with power. This January, give yourself the gift of knowing your numbers, knowing your needs, and knowing your path forward. Here’s to a healthier, stronger, more vibrant 2026 for the entire Mohawk Valley.

36 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

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On the Cover

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU:

Start With the Space That Holds You in 2026

By Laura Candella Weimer

The Weight We Carry Into a New Year January arrives with a bright promise yet often lands like a blunt reminder that life doesn’t magically reset because the calendar does. We drag old stress into a new year—some outside of our control—which is exactly why it becomes so important to create a restorative space rather than an overwhelming one.

A cluttered entryway, piled-up laundry, saved mementos from past versions of yourself— these things pile up quietly until the air feels thick with unfinished business. And when your space feels crowded, your mind often follows. We wear burnout like armor, then wonder why everything feels so heavy.

“When your space breathes, you do too.”

But what if the quickest path to calming your nervous system isn’t a shinier, stricter version of yourself, a gym membership you may not use, another vision board that becomes clutter, or endless manifesting that fades into a distant thought?

Your Home: The First Place Your Body Tries to Exhale What if the most immediate path to calm is intentionally shaping the space around you to support who you already are—exhausted, hopeful, brilliant, flawed, evolving?

Your home should be your first sanctuary, not another source of noise.

We don’t talk enough about how deeply our nervous system responds to our surroundings. A cluttered entryway can spike cortisol.

A messy kitchen can derail healthy choices before the day even begins. A bedroom draped in last week’s laundry whispers that rest must be earned rather than allowed.

The next time you walk into each room, pay at-

tention to how your body responds. It tells the truth before your mind catches up. Your shoulders either rise toward your ears as you brace for the chaos… or they drop, your breath softens, your nervous system loosens, and your body finally relaxes.

Start Where the Truth Stings If you feel angst in a particular room, start there—where the discomfort whispers loudest:

• An overfilled junk drawer that jams before you can fully open it

• Plastic storage containers with unmatched tops

• Lone socks saved out of hope of finding their match

• A corner holding a version of you that no longer fits

Decluttering isn’t about aesthetics. It is nervous-system maintenance.

And remember: you don’t hold onto objects because you need them. You hold onto them out of fear that releasing the item releases the memory. But the moment isn’t in the mug, the children’s art projects, or the sweet card from your late grandma. The memory already lives in you.

“Honor the memory, not the object.”

If letting go feels uncomfortable, ease into it.

Take photos. Record a short video explaining why the item mattered. Preserve the meaning while reducing the weight. Then donate or dispose of the items; give them a chance to have meaning for someone else.

13 WAYS TO TRANSFORM A ROOM AFTER THE CLUTTER IS CLEARED Quick, design-focused changes that are affordable, high-impact, and nervous-system friendly

1

2

Warm the lighting: Swap harsh 5000K bulbs for calming 2700K. Rearrange furniture: Open pathways and invite natural light.

3 lighting > overhead glare.

Add a lamp: Soft, layered

38 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

Small Shifts, Big Regulation A “fresh new you” rarely comes from explosive, expensive change. It comes from clearing emotional noise you’ve stepped over for months… maybe years. With simple, intentional shifts, you can create a home where your nervous system can regulate.

The “fresh new you” is a reclamation, not a makeover. It is choosing softness over chaos, clarity over clutter, and intention over autopilot-living.

Start small. Start imperfect. Start wherever you are. Your body will thank you long before your mind understands why.

You don’t need to fix yourself this year. You only need to create a space where your best self can finally breathe.

4 Remove one loud color to

9 Natural light regulates the

5 or pillow adds warmth

10 Hooks + a tray keep daily

6 busy patterns with

11 fridge fronts and paper piles.

Make your bed: A 12 25-second reset that

Simplify the palette: quiet the room.

Add texture: A throw without clutter.

Choose solids: Replace grounding tones.

7 $6 air-purifying plant lifts Bring in a plant: Even a

8

the energy instantly.

Use containers: Trays or baskets make everyday items look intentional.

Open blinds daily: nervous system.

Create a drop zone: life contained.

Reduce visual noise: Clear

elevates the whole room.

13 Familiar fragrances tied to Add meaningful scent:

positive memories create immediate calm.

On the Cover

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU:

Career & Professional Development in 2026

By Stephen Turnbull, Founder - T5 Insurance Services Every January, people step into the new year with good intentions. They buy the planner, clean the office, join the gym, set big goals and still end up frustrated when nothing truly changes. The reason is simple: real professional development starts with one thing most people overlook.

A promise. Not a resolution. Not a wish. A promise you make to yourself and refuse to break.

When I look at the most defining moments of my career, whether it was launching my own insurance agency, building a team from the ground up, starting The Make An Impact Podcast, or developing local networking groups, they all began with a personal commitment.

A deal I made with myself that no one else could enforce.

“Show up. Do your job & Do the right thing.”

That single mindset has shaped everything I’ve built. It’s not glamorous. It’s not complicated. But it’s the anchor. Most people don’t struggle because they lack potential, they struggle because they break their own promises. They talk big, set goals, set expectations…and then negotiate with themselves the moment things get uncomfortable.

If you want to grow in your career this year, start by becoming someone you can trust.

When you say you’re going to do something, follow through. When you set a standard, pro-

tect it. When you choose a direction, stay the course long after the excitement wears off.

That’s where confidence comes from not from achievement, but from knowing you’re someone who keeps your commitments. But commitments don’t mean much without something bigger to guide them: VISION. It’s surprising how many people are working hard without a clear idea of what they’re actually building. They’re putting in hours, taking meetings, saying yes to everything, but they don’t have a picture of the future they’re aiming for. Without vision, everything becomes blurry. It’s like trying to go through life without the glasses you know you need. You can still move forward, but you’re squinting and stumbling the whole way. Vision sharpens the path.

When I started my business, I knew the kind of agency I wanted to create, one rooted in service, relationships, education, and impact.

That clarity shaped every decision, from how we treat clients to the way we use media to tell meaningful stories. Whether it’s through the insurance agency, the podcast, or the lo-

cal networking events, everything ties back to a simple, focused picture of the future.Your professional growth needs the same level of clarity. A vision for your career. A vision for the leader you want to become. A vision for the life you want your work to support.

Once that picture comes into focus, you stop drifting and start building. You move with intention. You say no more often. You spend your time on the things that match the vision and walk away from what doesn’t. Combine a clear vision with a promise you refuse to break, and the entire year changes. You’ll feel more certainty, more direction, and more ownership over where you’re going.

Growth doesn’t come from motivation. It comes from discipline, clarity, and honoring the commitments that push you forward.

So this year, don’t just set goals because it’s January ... Sharpen your vision, make a promise to yourself and build the life and the career you keep saying you want.

One brick at a time. You got this, I know you do.

5 WAYS TO MAKE REAL CHANGE THIS YEAR

1 excuses. This is the foundation of real growth.

Create a clear vision for your career and 2 life. If you don’t know where you’re going, you

Keep the promises you make to yourself, no

can’t build toward it.

3 closer to your goals. Small, consistent actions Protect one daily habit that moves you compound.

4 your vision, it doesn’t belong on your calendar.

Move with intention, not impulse. Discipline 5 outperforms motivation every time.

Say “no” more often. If it doesn’t align with

40 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

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NEW YEAR, NEW YOU:

Intention: Your Theme of 2026

By Alyce Short, LCSW, MBA of Greenhouse Therapy Co. In today’s society, we are obsessed with getting answers. Whether it be from good ol’ Google, or your new AI-chatbot – we all have a search history a mile-long. However the truth remains that some of the most important questions can only be answered by one source… ourselves.

As a psychotherapist, I dedicate my work to helping clients find their answers. Often through challenging them with the right questions and exploring their inner thoughts, feelings, traumas, fears, hopes and dreams. There is no such thing as the right or wrong time to get on the self-reflection bandwagon, however the beginning of a new year is always a great time to do some inner-work – whether it be on your own or with the support of a professional.

This year, I’m assigning you a personal “theme” that will help guide you on your self-growth journey.

This theme can help you ask yourself the right questions, and more importantly, find fulfilling answers that will make you forget all about your favorite search engine.

This year’s theme is: Intention.

What is the significance of intention? What does it mean to be intentional? How do I incorporate intentionality into 2026? Let’s talk about it.

My simple definition of intention

is: the conscious act of self-determination. When we are intentional, we possess full awareness and consciousness behind the decisions we make and actions we take. We are both present and active in our day-to-day lives. And we feel more in control of our emotions because we have a more regulated nervous system.

Unfortunately, many of us struggle to be intentional. We live in a society that places value on quantity over quality and maintaining a fast-paced environment filled with quick fixes. Most people wake up and react to their day – answering to an alarm, answering to a notification, answering to a boss. The nervous system is already in survival mode by 9AM. The reality is, our nervous system and body at-large thrive off of slow, thoughtful, and (yeah you guessed it) intentional moments.

My favorite question to ask a client is, “So what are you going to do about it?”. And luckily for you, I am giving you the answers to this one.

Slow down. Remove yourself from autopilot. Spend more time considering how you exist within your body. Many of us carry tension within our neck, back, and shoulders without even realizing it. Take a deep breath, and pay more attention to your body language. Are you presenting calm and collected, or ragged and rigid? Slow down your speech. Take pauses between sentences. Allow yourself to enter a deeper level of thought before speaking thoughts

5 QUICK TIPS TO MAKE MEANINGFUL, INTENTIONAL CHANGES IN THE NEW YEAR

out loud. Not every thought that comes to the front of your mind is meant to be given attention. Be intentional with your words.

Write things down. Write down your goals, the positive thoughts you’d like to occupy your mind, and the positive emotions you’d like to be filled with. We significantly increase the ability to change our world when we use all of our sensory organs to put it into fruition. Write it down, read it to yourself, read it aloud, talk about it with others, and close your eyes to visualize it. When we take these steps, we embed our intentions into our subconscious.

It becomes an active part of our world, not just a thought that crosses our minds.

2 out a seasonal text to all of As each season changes, send

your loved ones. Let them know how much they mean to you and that you’re proud of them.

Get to know yourself through 3 minutes to accomplish, do it

1 journaling. If you need a place

to start, consider buying a self-reflective workbook such as How to Meet Yourself by Dr. Nicole LePera.

42 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

If it takes less than 3

immediately. Do not let small tasks linger. Do them before they even have the chance to make it onto a to-do list. A clear mind is a healthy mind.

Create meaning with everything that you do. Figure out what you value most, and make small moments happen every single day that reflect your values. The small things leave the biggest impact. Vocalize your feelings to loved ones, offer compliments to strangers, and prioritize self-care by taking that extra 5-minutes in the shower just to enjoy the warmth. When we live with purpose, we are living intentionally.

I challenge you to take this as an introduction to intentional living, and a commitment to strengthening the relationship you have with yourself this year. Allow 2026 to bring lasting improvements that your older self will thank you for.

4 run away from your feelings, Invite vulnerability. Don’t

instead, run toward them. Cry when you feel like it – it’s the best coping mechanism we have.

5 shower, dance while cooking Have more fun. Sing in the

dinner. Romanticize your little life. Laughter is the second-best coping mechanism we have.

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NEW YEAR, NEW YOU:

Sip, Smart, Live Brighter with a Mindful Approach to Wellness in 2026

By Cristi Kaido When people think about starting fresh, they often imagine big, dramatic changes. New diets, new routines, new rules to follow. But meaningful change rarely begins with extremes. In my experience as a wellness coach, certified nutrition coach, and personal trainer, true transformation happens through small, sustainable habits that come from self-awareness.

It begins with a single choice to treat your body with care, curiosity, and compassion.

moment came in 2020 when a six inch blood clot near my heart led to emergency surgery. My surgeon told me that my health and low resting heart rate likely saved my life. That experience shifted my perspective in a way I will never forget. It helped me understand how deeply connected our daily habits are to our longterm wellbeing. It also became the spark that eventually inspired The Mindful Mixer, a space where I could blend my passion for health, creativity, and community into something meaningful.

My journey into wellness began long before I launched The Mindful Mixer, but the defining

The Mindful Mixer offers mocktail workshops, wellness events, and alcohol-free experiences that

44 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

On the Cover

highlight nourishing, seasonal ingredients. While the drinks are fun and beautiful, the real magic happens between the sips.

Each workshop includes a guided pause called the Ritual of the Sip. Guests take a moment to reflect on the flavors, their mindset, and how they want to feel in their daily lives. This short moment of mindfulness helps people build a deeper connection to the drink and to themselves.

I have always believed that wellness should feel accessible, encouraging, and rooted in joy. We do not grow by punishing ourselves or following rigid rules. We grow by slowing down, listening to our bodies, and choosing habits that support our lives. Whether I am coaching a client through nutrition goals, teaching a group about anti-inflammatory ingredients, or helping someone real-

FIVE SIMPLE TIPS FOR MEANINGFUL CHANGE THIS YEAR

1 always wins. Choose one

Start small. Consistency micro habit, like drinking 8 ounces of water first thing in the morning.

2 Focus on adding color,

Add before you subtract. protein, hydration, and whole foods rather than restricting.

3 that feels good. Walking, Move daily in a way

stretching, strength training, yoga, or dancing all count.

ize that wellness can be simple, my role is always the same. I help people take sustainable steps toward feeling better.

One of the core philosophies I teach is the importance of approaching wellness with curiosity instead of judgment. Instead of asking why you cannot stick to something, ask what your body needs today. Instead of focusing on what to remove, explore what can be added. More protein, more hydration, more movement, more whole ingredients, more connection, more breath.

Mocktails have become a powerful tool in this work. They give people room to explore flavor, creativity, and connection without the pressure of alcohol. For some, they support healthier habits. For others, they offer a fun way to incorporate more plants and functional ingredients into their day.

For everyone, they are a reminder that celebration does not require sacrificing health.

As we begin a new year, my hope is that people feel inspired rather than overwhelmed by change.

You do not need to reinvent everything on January 1. You can begin with one small shift. Drink more water, step outside for ten minutes a day, add color to your plate, take a breath before eating, or build one mindful moment into your routine.

Wellness is not a race or a trend or a challenge to conquer. It is a relationship with yourself. Like any relationship, it evolves and strengthens with practice.

Nourish your

Whether I am coaching, hosting workshops, or creating mindful mocktail experiences, my mission is simple. I want to help people feel good in their bodies, feel connected in their lives, and feel empowered to make choices that bring them closer to the healthiest and happiest versions of themselves.

and relationships matter.

Reach out, check in, and gather with intention.

Here is to a year of intentional choices, joyful nourishment, and brighter living, one mindful sip at a time.

4 moment a day. Pause Create one mindful

before a meal or sip and check in with your breath and your body.

5 connections. Community

As you move through this issue, you will also notice a unique connection behind the scenes. Cristi Kaido, whose work blends wellness coaching, nutrition guidance, and mindful mocktail experiences, has been collaborating closely with Lisa Briggs at Fit Body Boot Camp as they explore new ways to support personal wellness through movement, mindset, and intentional daily habits. Mohawk Valley Living is proud to support their efforts. This collaboration will begin with the Mohawk Valley Dry January Challenge, a community-centered wellness initiative designed

by Cristi Kaido, founder of The Mindful Mixer, to encourage mindful choices throughout the month.

Fit Body Boot Camp, with locations in Clinton and Whitesboro, will serve as the founding gym partner, and restaurant partners, including Vine & Fig in Rome, are being brought on to support the challenge. Participants will receive a challenge T-shirt (designed by local wellness branding expert, Vanessa Colangelo of LifeWellBranded, Co), weekly mocktail recipes, simple wellness guidance, and access to a private Facebook community for accountability and encouragement. Each partnering restaurant will feature a “Mindful Mixer Mocktail of the Week,” with a portion of sales donated to Center For Family Life & Recovery. At the end of the month, a celebration event will be held with mocktails and the announcement of the total funds raised for the community.

We extend our sincere thanks to each of this month’s experts: Lisa Briggs, Doug Walters, Dr. Juleen Qandah, Alyce Short, Stephen Turnbull, Laura Weimer, and Cristi Kaido. Their insight brings depth and purpose to this issue and offers guidance for beginning the year with clarity and intention. Each reminds us that meaningful change does not come from dramatic reinvention but from deliberate choices, steady habits, and a willingness to care for ourselves in new ways.

Here is to a year of growth, balance, and possibility. May each intentional step, no matter how small, move you closer to the life you want to create.

MohawkValleyLiving.com

45

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Winter Guide

LET’S GO!

The Mohawk Valley’s Winter Playbook

By Elizabeth Lemire

Snow came early this year - many of us were still raking leaves when a foot of fresh powder arrived to cover them. As I write this, another round of significant snowfall is blanketing the region, closing schools and local businesses while plows hustle to keep up. Snow predictions aren’t always perfect, but no matter how much snow falls in the Mohawk Valley, here is your playbook for a few easy, accessible gems to help you glide through winter.

Black River Environmental Improvement Association (BREIA), Herkimer County Cross-Country Skiing, Snowshoeing BREIA’s 1,500 acres were a gift from Gilbert Butler to the people of the Mohawk Valley and to anyone lucky to visit. The land is so stunning that it makes you wonder if what you are looking at is real. Mr. Butler, who grew up in Utica, wanted to give back to the community where he was raised. As a lifelong lover of the outdoors, he wanted everyone to have access to nature, specifically in an area he had cherished throughout his life. He purchased the Tug Hill land 41 years ago and has preserved it and developed it into a world-class recreational facility open to all, year-round.

As a great admirer of this man’s environmental philanthropy (Google “Butler Parklands”), it’s also worth noting that he is responsible for

the largest kids’ outdoor recreational program - right here in the Mohawk Valley - serving 8,000 to 10,000 children each year. His goal? Give them a great time, help them fall in love with the outdoors, and inspire them early to be good environmental stewards.

BREIA offers 80 kilometers of groomed trails, warming huts stocked with firewood, and skis, boots, and snowshoes for loan - at no cost. Josh Entwistle, a local mason, is so passionate about these trails that it’s hard not to prioritize getting to them. He loves the five points of accessibility, the breathtaking scenery, and the fact that, should you need equipment, Gilbert Butler has you covered.

Public access points are best understood by looking at the fantastic interactive maps at breiax-countryski.org. The “Trail Conditions” tab provides up-to-date information on plowed parking lots, warming hut access, and loan program hours.

MohawkValleyLiving.com

47

Winter Guide

Town of Webb Snowmobiling Old Forge, the largest hamlet in this 500-square-mile area, is celebrated as the snowmobiling capital of the East. The region has earned national and international recognition for its size and breadth of trails, and for the fact that almost all restaurant and lodging options are accessible by snowmobile.

Tourism began in the late 1800s, when the railroad ruled the North Country, long before the development of roads. Even today,

one cannot drive from southern Herkimer County to northern Herkimer County (Old Forge area) without briefly entering Oneida County unless you’re on a snowmobile!

There are 39 intersecting and converging trails to choose from, winding through forests, along the rivers and lakes, and over hilltops. The trail system is magnificently maintained by full-time town employees, who operate a fleet of grooming machines two shifts per day, seven days a week.

It’s up to you whether you want something short and scenic or a route with major mileage. The terrain is varied enough to keep you interested all season and enticing enough to bring visitors back for generations.

Specific trail information is available on the New York State Snowmobile Association website, NYSnowmobiler.com, or you can stop in at the Old Forge Visitor Information Center for a map and the required permit. Permits are also available at OldForgeNY.com.

Thanks to new snowmaking equipment, Val Bialas is no longer at the mercy of Mother Nature. This upgrade, made possible by $2 million secured by Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon, will be a game-changer for winter enthusiasts eager to ski even when natural snow is scarce.

But when you have snow and no lift, what’s the point? In an era when few things are repairable, a combination of vintage parts, time, and talent brought the lift back to life. Special thanks to Joe and Josh Amodio from New Age Hotrods for scouring the planet for the parts and repairing what was once deemed a teardown. Skiers and snowboarders get ready to hop on the hill - a full opening is expected in early 2026.

Outdoor Skating on the Parkway

Val Bialas Ski Center, Utica Downhill Skiing, Snowboarding, Outdoor Skating Many of us have experienced the disbelief that Utica has a zoo.

But people are even more flabbergasted when you tell them that Utica has a ski hill. It’s unique for a city of our size - there are barely a handful of municipally run ski areas, maybe five total in Maine and New Hampshire. But surely no resort anywhere offers glimpses of lions as you bomb down the mountain.

Mayor Galime has long championed the hill’s revitalization, calling Val Bialas “a key recreational asset to the city of Utica.”

48 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

The new, outdoor rink on the Parkway is fantastic fun, and we at MVL applaud the city for its renewed investment in recreational amenities that can be enjoyed by all. Now fully staffed and running its own Zamboni, the rink is ready for sliding and gliding!

Public skating: Wed–Fri 4–9 pm; Sat 12–4 pm & 6–9 pm; Sun 12–4 pm.

January School Break: Jan 1 closed; Jan 2–3, 12–4 pm & 6–9 pm; Jan 4, 12–4 pm.

Admission: $5, rentals $5.

Winter Guide

Utica Curling Club, Whitesboro Curling But what is curling, anyway? Most sports are identifiable by their name, but “curling” might need a little explanation at least for me. In one sentence: two teams compete to slide a 40 lb. granite “stone” to the center of a target.

Curling has been part of the Mohawk Valley for a very long time. Not much in our playbook dates back to 1868, but the Utica Curling Club does. We’re fortunate to have this renowned facility here, serving both local residents and visitors who come for national and international tournaments hosted at UCC.

Chenango Canal Trail Walking, Cross-Country Skiing, Snowshoeing After a tragic bike accident claimed the life of a beloved Hamilton College professor, Sam Pellman, the college community and Clinton residents were motivated to get people off the road and onto safer paths. Beginning in 2018, with help from the Town of Kirkland, the county, and the state, the group, now Kirkland Trails, Inc., revitalized a portion of an old railbed that once ran from Binghamton to Utica (fun fact: one section now serves as our current arterial).

If serenity and quiet sound appealing, walk, cross-country ski, or snowshoe the Chenango Canal Trail. Depending on your stamina, you can travel two miles to Deansboro from the Dugway Road trailhead and continue for three more miles to Oriskany Falls on the Town of Marshall Towpath Trail. You’ll pass through fields, follow a winding creek, and encounter the original clapboard train depot, with its leaded-glass windows - worth looking through for a moment, to glimpse a different time. Just past the depot, donkeys and sheep may trot down the hill to say hello, or more likely, try to mooch some food.

The trails are beautifully maintained by the Town Highway Department under Superintendent Jon Scott, who supports efforts to improve people’s quality of life. The Mohawk Valley thanks you!

This year, the Utica Curling Club will offer a Winter Curling Sampler on Thursdays in January and February - a four-session introduction showcasing the different aspects of the game. Mike Krumme, a longtime club member, said that one of curling’s biggest attractions is its sportsmanship and friendliness. Curling culture emphasizes shaking hands before and after the game, supporting opponents and teammates, and, his favorite part socializing post-match, where winners buy losers their drink of choice. Mike also points out another big selling point: no equipment is required. If you’re interested in league play or just starting out, contact curlingsampler@uticacurlingclub.org.

Photo credit: Ernest Williams

Root Glen, Clinton Winter Walk, Cross-Country Skiing, Snowshoeing A gem of the Mohawk Valley in all seasons, and quietly majestic on a cold, winter day. Established as a “place of beauty for public enjoyment,” it never disappoints as you navigate its lovely bridges and occasional steep paths. The elements can make the crushed red stone icy, so note the weather conditions or use crampons.

Connected to Root Glen are the Kirkland Glen Trails, which meander through the 7.5 acres of land filled with towering trees that create a natural canopy should you run into inclement weather.

MohawkValleyLiving.com

49

Winter Guide

McCauley Mountain, Old Forge Downhill Skiing, Snowboarding, Cross-Country Skiing, Snowshoeing, Fat-Tire Biking Once a loyal McCauley person, always a loyal McCauley person.

They fall in love, and it’s hard for them to ski anywhere else in the Mohawk Valley - just ask Paul Rayhill. The terrain can be steep, rocky, and challenging, but that’s exactly what the thrill seekers love. For those who prefer to take it a little easier and soak in the landscape, there are meandering blues and greens at the summit. As you ascend to the top, the magnificent view on a clear day creates clusters of people debating whether they’re seeing Blue Mountain, Whiteface Mountain, Mount Marcy, or all three.

There is a fantastic beginner hill for those just starting out, nicely situated near the base of the lodge. New this year is a “magic carpet” lift - a very welcome innovation for those of us who grew up hanging on to a rope for dear life.

Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, fat-tire biking McCauley also boasts 15K of groomed Nordic trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, all well marked and documented on a clear trail map for your pocket. New this year - thanks to Doug Wescott, of the Mountainman Outdoor Supply Company - is a dedicated fat-tire biking trail. Call ahead if that is your desired activity, because it’s Doug and his dog Willow, who prep the Reggie Trail for riding.

Pond skating in Old Forge Skating, Ice Hockey

Osceola Ski & Sport Resort, Camden Cross-Country Skiing, Snowshoeing

A new skating rink with regulation-sized hockey boards now sits at the intersection of Upper Joy Tract Road and Railroad Avenue in Old Forge, designed for free skating, figure skating, and hockey. Mike Farmer, Tourism Director for the Town of Webb, puts safety concerns to rest with a laugh: “There are no fish under our skating ice, and although you can fall down, you cannot fall in!” An added bonus, the town’s Zamboni will keep the ice in great shape. There are no set hours - after dark, if the moon is out, you’re golden; otherwise, the lights shut off at 10 PM.

Dustin Hite has cross-country skied for 40 years. He trained in Lake Placid, raced competitively, and skied with kids who went on to become Olympians: “They succeeded, I went to work.” Six years ago, Dustin and his wife built a ski center from scratch on Tug Hill, a spot famous for some of New York State’s best snow and beautiful scenery. The center features 20 km of groomed trails, rentals for all ages, lessons, ski and snowshoe sales, and full-service repairs. Once you’ve had your fill of skiing or snowshoeing, relax by the fireplace with warm soup or a cold beer. Reservations are recommended.

50 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

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Winter Guide

Photo credits: Oneida County Tourism

Woods Valley, Westernville Downhill Skiing, Snowboarding, Tubing Woods Valley creates a five-star experience for skiers, snowboarders, and sledders from three to eighty-five. It might not be the longest run of your life, but its exceptional hospitality, state-of-the-art snowmaking, and meticulous grooming

make it a multigenerational favorite.

Despite having one of the shortest verticals in the area, the Woods family continues to innovate - expanding terrain, adding lifts, upgrading the lodge, and inspiring kids to play outside with super-cool terrain parks, carousels, and car-

Indoor Ice Skating

Phil Rayhill championed the idea of converting an old rail corridor between New Hartford and Whitesboro into a safe, accessible path that is particularly beautiful in winter, and it is plowed! There are fascinating wetlands, woods of evergreens, active beavers, osprey, blue herons, bald eagles, and an array of dogs to observe as you walk the 3.8-mile trail with a friendly community that will come to know your name if you’re a regular.

Utica University Nexus Center (Utica) – Public skating hours vary; check nexusutica.com/public. If no hours are listed, none are available.

Clinton Arena (Clinton) – Public

skating: Wed 12–2, Thu 11:30–4:30, Sun 4–6, school holidays 12–2. Admission $5, rentals $5. Skate sharpening daily 7 a.m.–11 p.m.

Wed–Fri 1–2:30, Fri 7:30–9, Sat 1–2:30 & 7:15–8:45, Sun 3–4:30, school holidays 1–2:30. Admission $2, rentals $3, season passes $50. Skate sharpening available.

Whitestown Community Center & Ice Rink (Whitesboro) –Public skating: Sat

7–8:45 pm, Sun 1–2:45, school holidays 1–2:45. Join “Skate and Shoot” Sun 7 pm—flow atop the ice and take shots on goal (bring helmet, gloves, stick).

Admission $5, rentals $5. The only rink in the area open year-round!

New Hartford Recreation Center (New Hartford) Public skating: Fri 6:30–8,

Sat 6–7:30, Sun 3–4:40. Adult Skate: Tue–Fri 11-12:30. Admission $2, rentals $5.

52 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

Whether your passion is skiing, snowboarding, or tubing, when you’ve had your fill of crisp “mountain” air, step inside for a roaring fire, live music, and an après-ski scene that lingers well after the lights have dimmed on the mountain.

Rayhill Trail, New Hartford/ Whitesboro Winter Walk

All of the following rinks are open to the public. Their hours vary, which actually works in your favor—if one isn’t open, another likely is.

Kennedy Arena (Rome) – Public skating:

pets that make the ride up the mountain half the fun.

The Root Farm, Sauquoit Hiking, Snowshoeing, Cross-Country Skiing The Root Farm began in 1997 as Dr. Alice Root’s small equine-assisted therapy center and has since grown into a place where people of all ages and abilities can connect with nature. In winter, the farm’s peaceful trails are ideal for hiking, snowshoeing, skiing, and quiet exploration. Go at your own pace on a self-guided outing, or join a guided walk to discover more about the land and the wonderful animals that call it home. Snowshoes are available to rent, and registration is required.

Rates: • Self-guided: $10 (add $5 for snowshoe rental) • Guided: $17 (add $3 for snowshoe rental)

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At Home

2026 NEXUS CENTER HOME SHOW Begin the New Year with Fresh Home Inspiration By Jill M. Hayes Homeowners across the Mohawk Valley will have their premier opportunity to jump-start renovation plans and find fresh home inspiration when the 2026 Home Show at the Nexus Center returns on Saturday, January 31 and Sunday, February 1, 2026. Presented by New York Sash, it is the region’s largest and most exciting home-improvement event! This twoday showcase brings together the area’s top remodelers, designers, and service providers—along with a full lineup of entertainment to make the weekend fun for the entire family.

The Nexus Center transforms into a vibrant marketplace featuring more than one hundred vendors specializing in every area of home improvement, from kitchen and bath remodeling to lawn equipment, energy-efficient windows, siding, fencing, and more. For homeowners, the ability to compare so many services and products in one place is invaluable. Instead of juggling multiple appointments or showroom visits, guests can speak directly with professionals, gather inspiration, and explore options at their own pace.

The show’s timing is intentional. January is widely recognized as one of the smartest months to plan or buy home improvements.

Contractor schedules are more open, pricing is often more competitive, and suppliers often run post-holiday promotions. With new budgets and renewed motivation, homeowners find the New Year to be the ideal moment to kick off projects that will enhance comfort, efficiency, and property value throughout 2026.

Show sponsor and returning exhibitor Clin54 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

Jill M. Hayes Owner and CEO New York Sash

ton Tractor and Implement Co. will display a range of equipment to tackle all kinds of outdoor property projects, including Ferris mowers, Kress electric mowers, Hotsy hot water pressure washers, and New Holland tractors.

Owner John Calidonna highlights the value of the in-person experience: “It’s an opportunity for people to see the products first-hand and talk to the experts at Clinton Tractor about what products are right for them.”

New York Sash describes what you’ll find from the presenting sponsor: “When homeowners visit New York Sash at the Home Show, they’ll see real products on display to see, touch, and feel, with experts to talk with to get your questions answered, and amazing deals to get your spring projects started.”

Another returning exhibitor is B&K Fencing, whose owner Tyler Brown shared what visitors can expect: “We will be presenting several different samples of fence, showing customers the durability of our products along with different styles and colors that we have to offer.”

Adding even more excitement to the weekend, New York Sash is once again teaming up with the Home Show for an amazing contest: The $25,000 Home Improvement Giveaway! One lucky homeowner will win $25,000 worth of New York Sash products professionally installed in their home. The winner can choose between new windows, siding, doors, or a new bathroom, all of which can be seen on display at the New York Sash booth. The drawing will take place live at the Home Show, with a $1,000 cash kicker if the winner is in attendance when drawn.

Katie Reilly, VP of Marketing and Culture at

A Major Giveaway Returns for 2026 Home Show Attendees

With 2026 underway, the Home Show at the Nexus Center Show it the ultimate destination for homeowners ready to turn New Year inspiration into real home transformation.

Whether you are dreaming big or planning practical upgrades, it is the perfect way to spend a weekend exploring, learning, and envisioning what your home can become in the year ahead.

For more information on the 2026 Home Show at Nexus Center and enter to win free admission tickets, visit homeshowatnexuscenter.com

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MV Harvest

By NAT LEVIN Local Foods Mohawk Valley

Lentil Salad with Cumin-Lime Vinaigrette Lentil salads are a wonderful vehicle for a big, flavorful dressing, as well as a variety of vegetable colors and textures. This salad makes a fantastic packed lunch and an even better breakfast - add a nine-minute egg and slice of good toast and you have an exceptionally filling and nutritious meal at any time of day. Pepitas and slivered onions add crunch and color to the kale, and the feta lends a pleasingly salty bite. Consider adding in thinly sliced celery or carrot along with the kale, or chunks of roasted bee or sweet potato. The dressing might taste sharp if you’re sampling it directly out of the bowl, but it needs to be bright and strong enough to enliven the lentils and kale, two fairly stodgy ingredients that are transformed by the citrus and spices in the vinaigrette.

For the salad 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed Half bunch of kale (about 3 packed cups), de-ribbed and torn into bite-sized pieces 2 tablespoons finely chopped pickled jalapeños ¼ cup toasted pepitas ½ a small (the size of an egg) red onion or shallot, very thinly sliced 4 ounces feta, crumbled

For the vinaigrette: Juice of two limes, about 1/4 cup 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 2 teaspoons ground cumin 1 teaspoons ground coriander 1 large clove of garlic, pounded to a pulp or finely grated 1 teaspoon honey 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon water

In a medium sauce pan, cover the lentils with several inches of cold water and add two teaspoons of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then turn down to a robust simmer and cook for 15 - 30 minutes, until the lentils are tender, but not falling apart. The amount of time needed to cook them will depend on the age and variety of the lentil; brown lentils cook more quickly than green. Start tasting after 15 minutes.

While the lentils are cooking, make the vinaigrette. In a measuring cup or small bowl, combine all the ingredients.

Place the slivered onions and kale in the bottom of a large bowl. Pour in about half the vinaigrette, and use your hands to massage it into the kale.

When the lentils are done, drain them well, then add to the kale along with the rest of the vinaigrette. Add the pickled jalapeños, pepitas, and feta, and toss a few times to combine. Let sit at least an hour before serving for the flavors to blend.

Local Foods Mohawk Valley is an online local food collective offering the Mohawk Valley the best local food year-round via a virtual store. Customers shop online from over fifteen local vendors Wednesday–Sunday and pick up on Tuesday at the St. Mary’s Preschool in Clinton between 5:00–6:30pm. www.localfoodsmohawkvalley.com

56 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

MV Grown

A New Year on the Farm: What We Learned and What Comes Next in 2026

As we move into 2026, farmers across the Mohawk Valley are taking stock of the year behind us and

By Ben Simons preparing for the one ahead. No two seasons are ever the same, and the past year offered plenty of reminders of how quickly conditions can change. Weather, global markets, soil health, and labor all shaped the story of this year’s harvest, and each will influence the choices we make as a new season begins.

Last year’s hay season was a perfect example of that unpredictability. The year before (2024) had produced one of the heaviest hay crops in recent memory. Many of us wondered if we would be able to sell it all. Then this past year turned dry. The first cutting came in beautifully, but the second and third were extremely light. Thankfully, the surplus from the previous year moved well, and demand in markets like New England stayed strong enough to keep prices steady. It was a reminder that agriculture has a way of balancing itself out, even when the weather does not cooperate.

The larger conversation this past year centered squarely on soybeans. You could hardly open a newspaper, social media pages, and news outlets without seeing something about soybean prices and the stifling international purchasing. Soybeans remain one of the most globally influenced crops we grow, and what happens overseas has a direct impact on farms here at home.

Earlier in the year, the price of soybeans and corn fell to levels farmers have not seen in such a long time. That drop came from slower export activity and an oversupply that pushed the market down.

The United States produces a large quantity of soybeans that we need to export approximately a third of our national crop to maintain a healthy market. When those 58 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

exports soften, prices follow. We felt that firsthand. Then, late in the year, several large international orders were placed and the soybean market responded almost immediately. Prices climbed sharply. They are still not at the highs of a few years ago, but the shift gave many farmers renewed confidence heading into 2026. It also highlighted how quickly this market can move, which is why long term planning can feel like a moving target.

For that reason, crop rotation remains one of the most important tools on any farm.

On our farm we rotate from hay to corn to soybeans and then back to hay. This protects the soils health, helps manage weeds and disease, and creates long term stability, even when prices rise and fall. Some years soybeans are the strongest crop. Other years corn takes the lead. Rotation keeps the land productive and helps farmers avoid chasing short lived price trends. As we look ahead to 2026, rotation is one of the few things farmers can depend on regardless of what the markets do.

Labor will also remain a significant topic in the new year. Modern agriculture requires skilled, committed workers, especially on year round operations like dairy and livestock farms. Programs such as H2A were originally designed for short term harvest help, but many farms today need long term, stable

labor to operate safely and efficiently. When a worker learns the animals, the barns, and the rhythms of a farm, it becomes difficult to replace that person every few months.

Conversations around updating the current system will continue to be a priority for farmers nationwide in 2026.

Consumers heading into the new year can expect overall stability in food costs rather than major swings. National farm groups reported generally strong yields across the United States, with transportation costs easing and commodity prices leveling off.

Certain proteins, like beef, may still run higher due to ongoing supply pressures, but staple items such as vegetables, grains, and pantry essentials remain steady. The most important takeaway is that American agriculture continues to produce enough food to feed our own communities and support global demand.

As we enter 2026, farmers will start another year the way they always have. We prepare the soil, make our plans, watch the markets, and stay ready for whatever the weather brings. Farming will always carry risks, but it also carries purpose. Less than two percent of Americans grow the food that sustains the entire country. It is an honor to be one of them, and I look forward to another year of sharing the work of agriculture with the Mohawk Valley.

www.clintontractor.net

315.853.6151

MV Arts

By Megan Wright

JANUARY ART HAPPENINGS Ron Rakowski: The Best of Winter Comes to Old Forge When: Now until Feb. 28, 2026 Where: View Arts Center, 3273 NY-28, Old Forge

Curious Constructions

Ron Rakowski at View Arts Center

When: Now until March 7, 2026 Where: View Arts Center, 3273 NY-28, Old Forge

Curious Constructions at View Arts Center

Imagine That! Wit, Wonder and Whimsy When: Now until March 7, 2026 Where: View Arts Center, 3273 NY-28, Old Forge

Capturing Stillness

Capturing Stillness at Rome Art & Community Center

When: January 8-30, 2026 Where: Rome Art and Community Center, 308 West Bloomfield St., Rome

Watershed: Paintings

by Leigh Yardley

Imagine That! Wit, Wonder and Whimsy at View Arts Center

When: January 9 - 31, Artist Talk- Saturday, Jan 31, 1:00 PM Where: The Other Side Gallery, 2011 Genesee St., Utica

The Met: Live in HD at Munson “I Puritani,” Bellini When: January 10, 2026, 1:00 PM Where: Munson, 310 Genesee St, Utica

Winter Cardinal - Paint and Sip When: January 13, 2026, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Where: Rome Art and Community Center, 308 West Bloomfield Street, Rome

Watershed: Paintings by Leigh Yardley at The Other Side Gallery

The Met: Live in HD “I Puritani” at Munson

The Met: Live in HD at Munson - “The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay,” Bates When: January 24, 2026, 1:00 PM Where: Munson, 310 Genesee St, Utica 60 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

Winter Cardinal Paint & Sip at Rome Art & Community Center

The Met: Live in HD “The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay” at Munson

COMMUNITY ARTS Classes for adults, teens, and kids

Take a class this spring!

Heather Smith, Good Girl with a Pearl Earring, Gouache on paper, 2024

JEWELRY

FASHION

PAINTING

WORKSHOP BEZEL-SET PENDANT With Shannon Stockbridge | All Levels Thursdays, 6–9 p.m.

Jan. 29–Feb. 12

SEWING STUDIO With Niki English | Intermediate Wednesdays, 6–9 p.m.

Jan. 28–April 15

INTERMEDIATE PAINTING With Joe Murphy | Intermediate Mondays, 6–9 p.m.

Jan. 26–April 20 (no class Feb. 16)

Cost: $166, Member: $150

INTRO TO JEWELRY MAKING With Luke Towne | Beginners OPTION 1: Afternoons: Mondays, 1–4 p.m.

Jan. 26–April 20 (no class Feb. 16) OPTION 2: Evenings: Mondays, 6–9 p.m.

Jan. 26–April 20 (no class Feb. 16) Cost: $399, Member: $360

CERAMICS

MINI-COURSE SALT FIRED CERAMICS With Veronica Byun | Intermediate Wednesdays, 6–9 p.m.

Jan. 28–March 4

Cost: $289, Member: $261

Cost: $315, Member: $284

MINI-COURSE SIT & KNIT FOR INTERMEDIATE With Rebecca Robbins | Intermediate Thursdays, 6–9 p.m.

March 12–April 16

OIL PAINTING PORTRAITURE With Yulia Levkovich | All Levels Tuesdays, 6–9 p.m.

Jan. 27–April 14 Cost: $315, Member: $284

Cost: $90, Member: $81

WORKSHOP NUNO FELTED SHAWL With Mallory Zondag | All Levels Saturday, March 14, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

Cost: $147, Member: $133, Materials Fee: $20

WOODWORKING MINI-COURSE THE ART OF CREATING USEFUL WOODWORK With Joe Koronowski | Beginners Thursdays, 5:30–8:30 p.m.

March 12–April 16

Cost: $270, Member: $243, Materials Fee: $75

Cost: $315, Member: $284, Materials Fee: $40

For full list of classes, visit munson.art/community-arts

KIDS AND TEEN CLASSES Saturday morning art classes are available for kids ages 4 to 18 with two sessions: OPTION 1: Jan. 31–March 7 OPTION 2: March 14–April 18

REGISTER FOR A CLASS TODAY! munson.art/community-arts 315-797-8260 communityclasses@munson.art 310 Genesee St., Utica, N.Y.

MV Road MV Road Trip Trip MV Road Trip Drive of the Month Drive of the Month The crunch of snow under my boots

Sunday during the winter regularly brings us during to Woods Area in Sunday theValley winterSki regularly Westernville, just outside of Rome. brings us to Woods Valley Ski Area in The recent renovations to the lodge Westernville, just outside of Rome. are beautiful, and also makes this a The recent renovations to the lodge great place for anyone, whether are beautiful, and also makes this a you’re skierfor or anyone, not! There’s always greataplace whether live entertainment, even on you’re a skier or not! There’s always weeknights, a great food live entertainment, evenand on drink menu, and a gigantic burning weeknights, a great wood food and drink fireplace to keep you warm the menu, and a gigantic woodwith burning pops and crackles thewith perfect fireplace to keep adding you warm the pops and crackles adding day. the perfect soundtrack to your snowy My soundtrack yourgone snowy day. My husband and Itohave night husband I have night skiing a fewand times forgone a different skiing a few date night out!times for a different date night out!

Our kids have learned so much Our kids have much during their ski learned lessons,so and during their ski lessons, and watching them improve each winter watching has been sothem fun toimprove watch. each You’llwinter be has been so fun to watch.

You’ll be able to easily find us: my husband able towill easily us:gummy my husband and son be find eating sharks and son will be eating gummy sharks on the chair lift, while I’ll be running on the chair lift, while I’ll be running after my daughter down the bunny after my daughter down the bunny hill because, despite all those hill because, despite all those lessons, her favorite thing is to still lessons, her favorite thing is to still fly down the hill without stopping. fly down the hill without stopping.

as IThe walk our dog, the silence hanging crunch of snow under my boots in the cool air, and the warm glow of as I walk our dog, the silence hanging lights as the day grows darker are in the cool air, and the warm glow of justlights a fewas reasons I love winter. the daywhy grows darker are Maybe because I’m always the just it’s a few reasons why I loveon winter. go and I welcome the stillness that Maybe it’s because I’m always on the comes with the cold the months, butthat go and I welcome stillness winter is truly to me. but comes with beautiful the cold months, winter is truly beautiful to me.

This month, we’re exploring some funThis andmonth, classic we’re winterexploring activitiessome to do fun andNew classic winter to do in Central York that activities get you out in Central Newmoving York that get you out of the house and around of when the house and moving around even it gets dark out seemingly even when it gets dark out seemingly after lunchtime. after lunchtime.

Our first stop is the New Hartford first stop is the New Hartford RecOur Center.

My husband and I Rec Center.

My kids husband recently took our hereand oneI recently kidsanhere one Friday nighttook andour it was absolute Friday night and it was an absolute blast (from the past!) This was the blast (from past!)night This was place to be on athe Friday in the place to be on a Friday night in I Junior High and High School, and Junior High and High School, and I was excited to see that it’s still a was excited to see that it’s still a popular place. I have no shame in popular place. I have no shame in admitting I grabbed one of those admitting I grabbed one of those balance bars as we did laps around balance bars as we did laps around the rink, and after a few hundred While our winter weekend is over, I the rink, and after a few hundred While our winter weekend is over, I times around, I started to get the can’t help but give a mention to a times around, I started to get the can’t help but give a mention to a hang of it again! fun tradition my Dad and I do most hang of it again! fun tradition my Dad and I do most years: a weekday years: a weekdayspent spentatatGore Gore Since we were within walking Mountain!

Even Since we were within walking Mountain!

Eventhe theboss bossgets getstotoplay play distance of One Genny, grabbing a a hooky sometimes. distance of One Genny, grabbing hooky sometimes.I love I lovethe theride rideup up fewfew slices of pizza and dessert was during the winter, slices of pizza and dessert was during the winter,it’s it’sa adrive drivewe we naturally thethe perfect way to to end our during allallseasons, naturally perfect way end our take take during seasons,but butwinter winter evening. feels so different because evening. feels so different becauseyou younotice notice Following ourour Friday escapades is a Following Friday escapades is a cozy Saturday brunch.

We’ll gogo cozy Saturday brunch.

We’ll anywhere that serves pancakes: anywhere that serves pancakes: Creekside Cafe or Debbie’s in in Creekside Cafe or Debbie’s Washington Mills, while another Washington Mills, while another favorite is Knead to Eat Bakery & Cafe favorite is Knead to Eat Bakery & Cafe in Franklin Square in Utica. sure in Franklin Square in Utica.

BeBe sure to get their pancake board, you won’t to get their pancake board, you won’t be disappointed! be disappointed!

Pancake Board KneadtotoEat Eat Pancake Board atat Knead

I hope Drive of the Month brings you the calm andclarity clarityofofwinter’s winter’s I hope thisthis Drive of the Month brings you the calm and stillness, and the warmth and excitement that come with a perfect snowy stillness, and the warmth and excitement that come with a perfect snowy day. day.

62 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

CARLY STEET MATHIAS CARLY STEET MATHIAS

Woods Valley at Night!

Woods Valley at Night!

so many views and details you don’t so many youfull don’t get to seeviews whenand the details trees are of get to see when the trees are full of leaves. After a full day of skiing, leaves.on After full home day of is skiing, dinner theaway at the dinner on the way home is thehave Ohio Tavern in Cold Brook. at They Ohio Tavern in Cold Brook.

They amazing home style favorites onhave amazing home their menu, andstyle theirfavorites dessertson are their menu, and their desserts are out of this world! out of this world!

I’d like to end this with a shout out I’d like to end this with a shout out to a few activities we have yet to try to a few activities we have yet to try out, but are on our list this winter: out, but are on our list this winter: Snowshoeing at the Utica Zoo and a Snowshoeing at the Utica Zoo and a visit to the new Children’s Museum! visit to the new Children’s Museum!

A Antiques ntiques & &C Collectibles ollectibles Celebrating 27 years in business!

Pristine, Practical, and Priced Right!

Specializing in estate sales, large and small.

Conducted with respect and dignity.

Call for a consultation: (315) 736-9160

Consignment at its Finest!

Clothing, Jewelry Household Items, Furniture Winter Hours Begin Monday October 6th: Tues-Fri 11-5pm & Sat 10:30-3pm Closed: Sun & Mon New consignment by appt. only

22 Oriskany Blvd., Yorkville (315) 736-9160

Facebook: The Queens Closet & Attic Addicts

Vendors Wanted!

Also home of

All kinds of Unique Vendors!

Artisans, Crafters, Antiques to Retro, including Food Items 315-628-1506 renewedandrescued.com

142 North Main St., Herkimer • 315-219-9195

Open 7 days a week: Mon-Sat: 10am-4:30pm, Sun 10am-2pm • mohawkvalleycommunitymarket.com

coins

antiques

jewelry

THE POTTING SHED ANTIQUES

ALL U.S. COINS WANTED

Buying and Selling Coins, Large Selection of Jewelry (gold, silver, costume), and Antiques. Buying scheduled by appointment.

Thurs & Fri 10-5, Sat 10-4, Closed Sun-Wed • www.thepottingshedantiques.com

315-736-5214

Don Hartman, 52 Oriskany Blvd., Whitesboro (Next to Kinney’s)

Dawn Marie’s Treasures Vintage & New gifts 13 College Street, Clinton • 315315-796-9099 796-9099

Happy New Year!

This is our last month before the new tenant comes in February. Fixtures for sale along with 75% off merchandise.

Help support us one last time before sending us off. Thank you for supporting our small business all these years.

Open Mon-Sat 10--6, Sunday 11-4 See you soon and Thank you for your support.

We will miss you all.

Giving Back

A New Year of Service

Every January, we talk about setting goals that make us healthier, more organized, or more disciplined. But what if one of the most meaningful resolutions we make has nothing to do with improving ourselves and everything to do with showing up for someone else?

a long list of resolutions that fade by February, choose one, three, or even five organizations that genuinely mean something to you and commit to supporting them throughout the year. It does not have to be grand. It just has to be intentional.

This month, I am inviting readers to think about service as a personal reset. Instead of creating

Some people give monthly donations. Others volunteer once a season. Some families choose a

By Carrie Byrne Putelo

cause together and make it part of their routine.

The point is not how much you do. It is the decision to consistently help an organization whose work matters to you.

Here are a few places across our region where even a small commitment can make a real difference:

Clinton Symphony Orchestra of the Mohawk Valley

ICAN (Utica)

ICAN supports children, teens, and families through mentoring, trauma-informed The Clinton Symphony Orchestra keeps live classical music thriving programs, and community-based services in our region, uniting professional musicians, students, and the throughout the Mohawk Valley. Volunteers community through meaningful performances. They are currently fundraising for their next concert series on Saturday, May 30, 2026, help with community activities, special events, family care kits, and outreach efforts. which includes an Education Concert for elementary students Even a small time commitment can make a and a special “side-by-side” performance pairing high-school meaningful difference for local families. musicians with orchestra professionals. Award-winning conductor Octavio Mas-Arocas, originally from Spain and now based at Phone: 315-792-9039 Website: ican.family Michigan State University, will lead the series. Funding ensures these Or donate via ican.family/donate performances—and the educational opportunities they provide— remain accessible for young musicians throughout the region.

Phone: 315-216-7795 Website: clintonsymphonyorchestra.org Or donate through the Donate link on their homepage.

Not everyone can foster or adopt, but there are so many other ways to help. The shelter always needs support with dog walking, enrichment activities, housekeeping, and socialization. Even thirty minutes of your time can make a meaningful difference for a dog waiting for a home — a short walk, some playtime, or simple companionship helps reduce stress and keeps them happier and more connected while they wait for their next chapter.

You can also take part in the Paws & Pages Reading Program, a heartwarming opportunity where kind kids ages 6–15 can build literacy skills while providing comfort to shelter pets. Sitting with an animal and reading aloud helps soothe anxious dogs and cats, giving them calm, positive interaction that truly matters.

Phone: 315-738-4357 Website: anitas-sshs.org Or donate via anitas-sshs.org/donate

Herkimer Next, Inc.

MVCAA Diaper Bank

Utica Zoo

Next strengthens communities in Herkimer County and beyond by working with local nonprofits, small businesses, municipalities, and grassroots efforts with grant writing, board development, supportive housing, research, planning, and more. If you want to give your time or expertise in a way that uplifts the entire county, this is a meaningful place to begin.

Phone: 315-864-0009 Website: www.herkimercountynext.org Or donate via the Give link on their homepage

Diapers remain one of the highest unmet needs for families in crisis. MVCAA’s diaper bank distributes thousands each year and always needs help with sorting, packaging, and small workplace or neighborhood drives. Even one box goes directly to families who need it.

Phone: 315-624-9930 Website: mvcaa.com Or donate via mvcaa.com/donate

The Zoo welcomes volunteers throughout the year for animal care support in non-contact roles, education programs, grounds projects, and major events. With flexible shifts and clear training, it’s easy to get involved in a way that fits your schedule. You can also support the Zoo through their Adopt-an-Animal program, which directly helps provide daily care, enrichment, and conservation resources for the species you choose.

Phone: 315-738-0472, Ext 42 Website: uticazoo.org Or donate via uticazoo.org/donate

Where to Begin Take an evening this month to reflect. What issues feel personal to you? Which organizations have you admired from a distance but never reached out to? Who could use your help on a consistent basis?

64 Mohawk Valley Living Magazine JANUARY 2026

Anita’s Stevens Swan Humane Society

Write down a short list. Contact one organization. Set a reminder for next month. The goal is not perfection. The goal is follow-through.

As we step into the new year, I love the idea that service can shape us just as much as we hope to shape the world around us. A small

commitment, carried month after month, becomes something meaningful. In a community like ours, where kindness genuinely matters, it might be the most lasting resolution you make all year.

Canastota

4154 Route 31 (315) 697-2214

Waterville

962 Route 12 (315) 841-4181

Lowville

8207 Route 26 (315) 376-0300

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