Mohawk Valley Living November 2025 by Mohawk Valley Living

At Pumpernickel’s Deli in the New Hartford Shopping Center, owner and chef Phil Amodio is known for his homemade pies—pictured here are his classic Apple and Blueberry. Other favorites include Chocolate Cream, Coconut Cream, and Chocolate Peanut Butter—each baked from scratch with a perfectly flaky crust and rich, decadent filling. Enjoy a slice at the deli or order a whole pie in advance for the holidays.

NOVEMBER

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & OWNER

CARRIE BYRNE PUTELO

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

COLLEEN INGERTO

MEDICAL & HEALTH EDITOR

DR. JULEEN QANDAH

STYLE EDITOR AT LARGE

JOANNE DONARUMA WADE

FITNESS EDITOR

LISA BRIGGS

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

SARAH FOSTER CALERO

JILL HAYES

NAT LEVIN

BRIANNA MINER

KATIE REILLY

BEN SIMONS

CARLY STEET MATHIAS

MARKETING & CONTENT ASSOCIATE MEGAN WRIGHT

advertising@mohawkvalleyliving.com

press@mohawkvalleyliving.com 315-272-7437

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Cover Photo credit: Lillie Ruth Photography

GIVING

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.

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.

Meet the Team:

Dr. Paul Caruso, D.D.S. Diplomate, American Board of Orthodontics

Dr. Cynthia Micaroni, D.D.S.

Dr. John Hamlin, D.D.S.

Editor’s Letter

Dear Readers,

November is the month when gratitude takes center stage, and this issue is all about giving thanks. We are honoring the first responders who show up for our community every day, often sacrificing their own time with family to keep us safe. We are also highlighting two remarkable organizations, The Rescue Mission of Utica and Mother Marianne’s West Side Kitchen, whose volunteers make sure no one in our community goes without a Thanksgiving meal. Their work reminds us what this season is truly about: compassion, service, and sharing what we have.

Carrie Byrne Putelo Editor-in-Chief & Owner

This month also marks the debut of our MVL Pie Trail, a sweet celebration of local bakeries and the people behind them. From homemade apple to chocolate cream, each pie tells a story, and I hope it inspires you to bake, share, and savor the season.

Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays. It reminds us to slow down, gather with loved ones, and take stock of what truly matters. For me, that gratitude begins right here in the Mohawk Valley — in the places, people, and stories that fill these pages every month. Whether it is a firefighter pulling an overnight shift, a family-owned bakery keeping a generations-old recipe alive, or volunteers serving meals to neighbors in need, this region has an incredible heart. And because traditions matter, I am sharing a family favorite this month: my grandmother’s savory sausage stuffing, passed down to my mom, and now to me, and soon to my kids.

As Mohawk Valley Living continues to grow, both on the page and on screen, I am filled with gratitude for the people who make it all possible. To my husband, son, and daughter, and to my mom, thank you for believing in me. To my dear friends, extended family, and everyone who has supported every new idea and late-night deadline, including the wonderful new people this endeavor has brought into my life, your encouragement means the world to me.

Wishing you a Thanksgiving filled with warmth, laughter, and the comfort of good company.

With love and an exceptional amount of gratitude,

Carrie

P.S. Tune in to Mohawk Valley Living TV every Sunday on WKTV (NBC) at 7:30 AM and WFXV (FOX) at 10:30 PM.

Granny Carville’s Savory Sausage Stuffing

A beloved family recipe passed down through generations - it’s sweetened with applesauce and filled with love.

Ingredients (for a 15 pounds turkey):

• 15 cups torn white bread (tear and season the bread the night before; let sit in a covered pot overnight to slightly dry and absorb flavor)

• 2 cups Classic Seasoned Stuffing Mixture

• 2 tsp poultry seasoning

• 2 tsp dried sage

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 ½ tsp salt

• 5 tbsp butter (to sauté onions and celery)

• 1 large sweet onion (mince in food processor)

• 2 cups celery (mince in food processor)

• 2 lbs sausage (we use Jones original sausage)

• 4-5 cups applesauce to moisten

Directions:

The night before, combine bread, 2 cups classic stuffing mixture, and seasonings in a large pot and cover.

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

In a large skillet, sauté onions in butter and when translucent/lightly brown, set aside. Repeat with celery and set aside. Then cook sausage until cooked through, lightly browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat and set aside.

Add cooked onions, celery, and sausage to the bread mixture and stir to combine. Then add applesauce until moist.

Transfer to a large baking dish and bake for 1 hour, covered, then an additional 15 minutes uncovered until crisp on top.

Granny Nora and Grandpa Tom Carville, 11 children, 41 grandchildren, 90 great-grandchildren, and a life well lived.

23 Genesee St., New Hartford

Mitten Drive

Buzz worthy

Happenings in the Mohawk Valley in November

Halloween at Exit 33, Verona

The Halloween celebration continues Saturday, November 1 at Exit 33, Turning Stone. Party the night away with music and entertainment, themed cocktails, and $1,000 in costume prizes. Doors open at 9 PM — come dressed to impress for one of the region’s biggest Halloween weekends! turningstone.com/nightlifelounges/e33halloween

2,9,23

Utica

Curling School, Whitesboro

Learn to curl or sharpen your skills during a 2-hour Utica Curling School session at noon on Sundays, November 2, 9 & 23 at 8300 Clark Mills Rd, Whitesboro. Equipment is provided; bring clean athletic shoes and warm, flexible clothing. Open to individuals 21+ years old and is $100 for nonmembers. Register at uticacurlingclub.org

Pumpkin Succulent Fall Workshop Series, Utica

On Thursday, November 6 and Thursday, November 13, join The Plant Stand at 2604 Genesee Street, Utica, for a hands-on workshop from 6 - 7:30 PM. Participants will create a ceramic pumpkin planter filled with succulents, with all materials provided. Cost is $55.

Final month of Harness Racing at Vernon Downs, Vernon

It’s the final month of harness racing at Vernon Downs, with races on November 1, 7, 8, 14 & 15. Spectate from inside while watching the horses & placing your bets. Don’t forget to stop by the buffet & Mr. G’s after for food and entertainment, and of course enjoy the casino! vernondowns.com/racing

Traditional Irish Session at Five Points Pub, Utica

Love Irish music or storytelling? Join the Traditional Irish Session at Five Points Public House on Wednesday, November 5 at 7 PM. Come to play—or just come for the craic! You don’t need to be Irish, just have a love for Irish culture and community.

A Man Named Cash: Johnny Cash & June Carter Tribute, Capitol Theatre, Rome

11th Annual Flags for Heroes, Utica Honor local heroes during the 11th Annual Flags for Heroes, hosted by The Good News Center from November 4–11. Purchase a flag for $40 to celebrate someone special. Proceeds benefit Sitrin’s Military Program. The recognition ceremony takes place Saturday, November 8 at 3 PM at Utica’s Parkway Recreation Center. thegoodnewscenter.org/flags-for-heroes

Isaac French, Music at the Manor, Rome

On Wednesday, November 5, enjoy an evening of live acoustic music with Isaac French at Beeches Manor (7900 Turin Road, Rome) from 6 to 9 PM. Free admission; food and drinks available on site. (Presented by Beeches Manor’s “Music at the Manor” series.)

A Christmas Story, Stanley, Utica

The beloved holiday classic comes to life on stage with A Christmas Story, The Musical at The Stanley Theatre, Tuesday and Wednesday, November 11–12 at 7:30 PM. From the creators of Dear Evan Hansen and La La Land, this Tony-nominated hit is a heartwarming, hilarious Christmas favorite. NOV 1 THRU NOV

Step into the legacy of Johnny Cash and June Carter with A Man Named Cash at the Capitol Theatre in Rome on Saturday, November 8 at 7:30 PM. Featuring Eric Hofmanis and Megan Houde. All ages. Don’t miss this unforgettable tribute! www.romecapitol.com/event/a-man-namedcash-john-cash-june-carter-tribute

Photo: Vernon Downs website

NOV 1

Art Alive! Family Day, Munson, UticaFREE Event

Celebrate Veterans Day at the Munson with Art Alive! Veterans Day on Tuesday, November 11, from 10 AM to 2 PM. Enjoy a performance by Pushcart Players (“Stone Soup and Other Stories” at 11 AM) plus a workshop at 1 PM. Free and family-friendly — bring your curiosity and enjoy the creativity! www.munson.art/art-alive/veterans-day

Breakfast with Santa, New Hartford

On Saturday, November 22, 8–10 AM, enjoy breakfast, music, raffles, and photos with Santa, hosted by Stuff the Bus CNY at the New Hartford Volunteer Fire Department. $8 adults, $4 ages 4–7, free for ages 3 and under.

Sarah’s Spotlight: Event of the Month Taste of CNY, Westmoreland

Agritourism is one of the largest industries in Oneida County, and we’re proud to live in an area that celebrates it! Join me on Saturday, November 1 from 11 AM – 2 PM at North Star Orchards for the 2nd annual Taste of CNY event by Cornell Cooperative Extension. This family-friendly event will have children’s activities, shopping, live music, and food sampling! It’s the perfect way to celebrate the harvest season & show appreciation to our farmers. We can’t wait to see you there.

SARAH FOSTER CALERO is President, Oneida County Tourism & Contributing Editor, Mohawk Valley Living

Polar Express Train Ride, Utica

From November 14 through December 21, the Adirondack Railroad invites passengers to board the magical Polar Express at Utica’s Union Station, enjoy hot chocolate and cookies aboard the ride, meet Santa, and receive the first gift of Christmas — a silver bell. adirondackrr.com/utica/polar-express

Rome Lights Fest 5K, Rome

On Friday, November 28, join the holiday kickoff in Rome with the festive 5K walk/run (or 1.3-mile walk) beginning at 5PM at City Hall, winding past Vogel Park, and returning for the tree lighting and fireworks. Participants will receive a commemorative long-sleeve shirt; stay for vendor booths, food trucks, and evening festivities. runsignup.com/Race/NY/Rome/RomeLightsFest5k

Wellin Kids Program at Hamilton College, Clinton - FREE Event

On Saturday, November 15, drop into the Wellin Museum at Hamilton College for handson artmaking inspired by crowns, hats, hoods, and headbands in the current exhibition. Grades kindergarten through 2nd grade meet at 2-3 PM; grades 3rd- 5th at 3:30-4:30 PM. Admission is free, and children must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver. hamilton.edu/wellin/education/youth-andfamily/wellin-kids

For local events and more, visit

NHFD

In the Know

Duke Nails Celebrates 15 Years

of Pampering Perfection

For 15 years, Duke Nails has been a go-to destination for relaxation, self-care, and beauty in the Mohawk Valley. Tucked inside Hannaford Plaza in Washington Mills, this neighborhood favorite has built its reputation on more than flawless manicures — it’s known for creating an entire spa experience that leaves clients refreshed, renewed, and ready to take on the world.

From the moment you walk through the door, Duke Nail’s warm, inviting atmosphere sets the tone for a truly indulgent visit. Soft music, calming scents like lavender, and friendly, attentive staff make every appointment feel like a well-deserved escape.

The service menu is as comprehensive as it is luxurious. Guests can choose from spa manicures and spa pedicures, each designed to exfoliate, hydrate, and revitalize tired hands and feet. They specialize in gel manicures and pedicures, gel polish, and dip powder nails — and they’re also one of the few salons in the region offering Gel X,

Duke Nails

60A Kellogg Rd, New Hartford (315) 733-1700

“Every year, we donate gift certificates to local churches, community offices, police stations, banks, and hospitals - and to countless fundraisers across the Mohawk Valley, so people can enjoy a little self-care. It’s our way of giving back to the community that has given us so much. After fifteen years, our clients truly feel like family, and their support inspires us to keep raising the standard of care every single day.”

— Karol

the breakthrough nail extension technique that’s become a must-try for beauty lovers. But nails are just the beginning. Many treatments include soothing extras like hand and foot massages, sugar scrubs and hot paraffin wraps, turning an everyday appointment into a mini spa retreat. Every detail — from the cleanliness and comfort of the space to the personalized attention each client receives — reflects Duke’s unwavering

commitment to exceptional service. As they celebrate 15 years of business, Duke Nails remains a beloved part of the community — a place where customers know they’ll be treated like family and leave looking and feeling their best. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick polish refresh or planning a full afternoon of self-care, Duke Nails is the perfect spot to relax, recharge, and rediscover the joy of pampering.

A Pretty Cool Way to Spend a November Day in Oneida County

Looking for something fun to do when the air turns crisp and the days grow shorter? Explore the Heart of New York Craft Beverage Trail, a self-guided

route connecting local breweries and wineries across Oneida County. It’s an easy way to experience the season — one sip (and one stop) at a time.

Here’s why it’s especially great for November:

• It strikes the perfect balance between cozy and adventurous — you can explore while staying warm inside welcoming tasting rooms or enjoy the fresh air and sit outside.

• Many stops are family-friendly, with outdoor spaces, games, and seasonal menus that make it fun for everyone. It’s the epitome of “something for everyone.” Adults can enjoy adult beverages, kids can enjoy soft drinks and space to run around, and most places offer great food options.

• The mobile passport makes it simple to check in, earn prizes, and discover new favorites along the way.

• You’ll be supporting local — a win for your weekend and the community.

Learn more and download your free trail passport at: www.oneidacountytourism.com/whatto-do/visitor-trails/heart-of-ny-craft-beverage-trail/

Content and images provided by Oneida County Tourism

Han, Owner Duke Nails

In the Know

A Community That Shows Up

Celebrating Ability and Inclusion

October is National Down Syndrome Awareness Month, a time dedicated to education, celebration, and inclusion — and a reminder of how powerful our community becomes when every individual is given the chance to thrive. People with Down syndrome are born with three copies of the 21st chromosome instead of two, a condition known as Trisomy 21. That’s why March 21 (3/21) is recognized around the world as World Down Syndrome Day — a date chosen to reflect “three copies of chromosome 21.”

Here in the Mohawk Valley, we see the power of inclusion every day — and few examples shine brighter than Anthony Murad. If you’ve stopped by Chef’s Express, you’ve probably met Anthony, whose infectious energy and welcoming smile instantly make people feel at home. He’s not just part of the team there — he’s part of the heartbeat. Whether he’s greeting guests, helping with meals, or chatting with regulars, Anthony shows up with enthusiasm and

pride, proving that meaningful work is about more than a paycheck. It’s about purpose, connection, and belonging.

Opportunities like the one Anthony has at Chef’s Express don’t just change lives for individuals with Down syndrome — they strengthen our entire community. They demonstrate what’s possible when inclusion isn’t treated as an initiative or a talking point but as a daily practice. When workplaces, arts programs, and local organizations open their doors and embrace people for who they are, they help unlock potential, build confidence, and create a richer, more compassionate community for everyone.

You can stop by Chef’s Express, 241 Genesee St., Utica, to see Anthony and the rest of the talented bakers in action — each one making the world a little brighter (and a lot more delicious) with every smile and every treat they create. While you’re there, maybe try my favorite lemon muffin — truly the best I’ve ever had.

Chef’s Express is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. To place

Rallying Together for Hillary

November 8th, 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM

Jennifer Ellis Styling Studio, 9834 River Road, Utica

When Hillary Pruitt was diagnosed with invasive ductal

carcinoma in 2021 at just 29 years old, she faced breast cancer head-on and beat it. Her courage and resilience inspired everyone who knew her. Now, four years later, she’s fighting an even tougher battle - stage 4 triple-negative metastatic

“Everybody needs help, sometimes we get nervous, sometimes we have good days and sometimes bad days. Just like everyone else and being treated like everyone else. But I want others to understand where I need help.”

— Anthony Murad, baker at Chef’s Express

an order — including holiday orders, specialty cakes, cupcakes, or larger custom requests — call (315) 927-0082 or email chefsexpress@thearcolc.org Please allow at least 48 hours’ notice for all preorders.

breast cancer. The cancer has returned in one of her lungs and, more recently, in her brain. It cannot be cured, only treated.

The demanding treatments, travel for care, and debilitating symptoms have made it impossible for Hillary to work, and her focus now is on healing and spending time with her family - especially her one-year-old son.

Determined to help, friends and neighbors are coming together to ease the financial burden and give Hillary the support she deserves.

On Saturday, November 8, the community will gather at Jennifer Ellis Styling Studio in Utica for a special fundraiser benefiting Hillary and her family. From 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., guests can take part in

a day filled with ways to give back, including:

• Drive-thru chicken BBQ (pre-order at jsellis1218@yahoo.com)

• Nothin’ Bundt Cakes (pre-order available)

• Permanent jewelry by Linked N Love

• Basket raffles and bake sale

• A family-friendly Dirty Soda Bar

Every dollar raised will go directly toward helping Hillary focus on what matters most: her health and precious time with loved ones.

For more information, to donate, or to pre-order food or desserts, email jsellis1218@yahoo.com or call Jennifer Ellis at (315) 794-5840.

Hillary Pruitt and family

Be Social

Wynn Hospital Gala

Five hundred guests gathered on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Turning Stone Resort and Casino for the Wynn Hospital Gala. The black-tie event—the second hosted by the healthcare organization— honored namesake donors Andrea and Steve Wynn, whose enduring commitment to excellence and community continues to inspire. From Steve’s early days in Utica to the couple’s far-reaching philanthropy, their story reflects vision, generosity, and a deep affection for people and place.

Longtime Wynn family friend Paul Anka, one of the most successful singersongwriters in history, provided entertainment in the showroom. The creator of classics like “My Way,” “She’s a Lady,” and “Put Your Head on My Shoulder” delivered an unforgettable performance spanning seven decades of music. He blended video duets with legendary artists, mingled with the audience, and surprised guests with a special version of “My Way” written for the Wynn Hospital— honoring Andrea and Steve Wynn, Linda Romano, Ray Halbritter, hospital staff, and retiring MVHS President/CEO Darlene Stromstad.

The night’s true beneficiary was the Wynn Hospital itself. The generosity of attendees directly supports its mission of providing life-saving and life-changing care. Patients and families in attendance reminded everyone that the Gala was more than an elegant celebration—it was a testament to what a united community can achieve for exceptional healthcare.

– Photos from the gala were provided thanks to Nancy L. Ford Photography and Adam Brockway Photography.

Mohawk Valley Health System Welcomes New President & CEO

The evening also marked an exciting new chapter for Mohawk Valley Health System, welcoming Dr. William W. LeCates, the organization’s new President and Chief Executive Officer.

Mohawk Valley Living proudly joins the community in welcoming Dr. LeCates and celebrating this next era of innovation and excellence in care.

THANK YOU TO ALL WHO SUPPORTED THE

Wynn Hospital Gala

HELD AT TURNING STONE RESORT CASINO!

We are grateful to Wynn Hospital benefactors, Andrea and Steve Wynn and the Wynn Family Foundation for their outstanding support of the gala. Special thanks to legendary singer-songwriter Paul Anka for his incredible performance.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

COCKTAIL HOUR SPONSORS

IBEW Local Union 43 and NECA Finger Lakes Chapter

HEALTHCARE HERO SPONSORS

IBEW Local Union 43 and NECA Finger Lakes Chapter

The Abraham Families

Adirondack Bank

Louis Aiello

Enessa Carbone and Family

Central New York Brain and Spine Neurosurgery

Central New York Cardiology

Coca - Cola Beverages Syracuse

Ronald and Sheila Cuccaro

Denyse and Greg Evans Marc and Judy Isaacs

Denyse and Greg Evans

MVHS Volunteer Association

Marc and Judy Isaacs MVHS Volunteer Association

Denyse and Greg Evans Marc and Judy Isaacs MVHS Volunteer Association

TABLE SPONSORS

Excellus BlueCross BlueShield

FustCharles LLP

Mohawk Valley Anesthesia Group

Pike Construction Services

Mohawk Valley Anesthesia Group

Pike Construction Services

Frank & Maria Sardelli, IHO

FustCharles LLP

Mohawk Valley Anesthesia Group

FustCharles LLP

Gilroy Kernan and Gilroy

Mohawk Valley Living

Gilroy Kernan and Gilroy

Mohawk Valley Living

Gilroy Kernan and Gilroy

Bill and Debbie LeCates

Wendy and Mark Levitt

Levitt & Gordon Esqs

Masonic Medical Research Institute and SUNY Polytechnic Institute

Mohawk Healthcare

MVHS Medical Staff

The Oneida Collier Group at Morgan Stanley

Oneida Indian Nation

Pacemaker Steel and Piping

Dr. Todd Pfannestiel and Dr. Aimee Zellers

Frank & Maria Sardelli, IHO

Anthony “Wooge” Sardelli

Steet Ponte Auto Group

Darlene Stromstad

TeamHealth

Vituity

Richard and Carol Zweifel

MV Entertainment

NOVEMBER ENTERTAINMENT

CALENDAR

Sunday Bingo Brunch at The Tap House (1)

When: Every Sunday beginning November 2, 10:15 AM – 1:00 PM

Where: The Tap House at Brewery Ommegang, 656 County Highway 33, Cooperstown Bingo, brunch, and beermosas — Sundays done right!

46th Annual Herkimer County Arts & Crafts Fair (2)

When: Saturday, November 8, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Where: Herkimer College, Herkimer

One of the region’s largest juried craft fairs, featuring over 100 artisans, handmade goods, and seasonal shopping.

A Christmas Story: The Musical (3)

When: Tuesday & Wednesday, November 11–12, 7:30 PM

Where: The Stanley Theatre, 261 Genesee St, Utica

The beloved holiday classic comes to life on stage in this Broadway-style musical adaptation.

Comedy Night Live (TV’s Tommy Bechtold) (4)

When: Friday, November 14, 7:30 PM, doors at 6:45 PM

Where: Capitol Theatre, 220 W Dominick St, Rome

An evening of stand-up comedy featuring TV personality Tommy Bechtold.

Tom Papa: Grateful Bread Tour (5)

When: Friday, November 14, 8:00 PM

Where: The Showroom, Turning Stone Resort Casino, Verona Nationally acclaimed comedian Tom Papa brings his signature humor and stories to the Mohawk Valley stage.

Fall into Fun Craft & Vendor Fair (6)

When: Saturday, November 15, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Where: Utica Recreation Center, 200 Memorial Parkway, Utica

A family-friendly vendor market featuring handmade goods, local products, gifts, and more.

It’s a Wonderful Life — Ilion Little Theatre (7)

When: Friday–Sunday, November 28–30 (Fri/Sat 7:30 PM; Sun 2:00 PM)

Where: Ilion Little Theatre, 13 Remington Ave, Ilion

A timeless holiday classic returns to the stage, capturing the spirit of the season in this beloved production.

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas (8)

When: Sunday, November 30, 3:00 PM

Where: The Stanley Theatre, 261 Genesee St, Utica

A dazzling holiday tradition featuring the iconic sounds of Mannheim Steamroller in a spectacular live performance.

UPCOMING EVENT!

Clue (9)

When: Sunday, December 14, 7:30 PM, Monday, December 15, 11:00 AM & 7:30 PM

Where: The Stanley Theatre, 261 Genesee St, Utica

Murder, mystery, and mayhem collide in Clue—the laughout-loud whodunit where six suspects, one crime, and endless twists keep you guessing to the end.

THE MUSIC SCENE

Rock Valley Brewing – Multiple Acts (1)

When: Saturday, November 1 – Seattle Sons, 8:00 PM; Saturday, November 8 – Northern Outlaws, 8:00 PM; Saturday, November 15 – Holidays City Blues, 8:00 PM

Where: Rock Valley Brewing Co., 56 West Mill Street, Little Falls

Almost Queen (2)

When: Friday, November 7, 8:00 PM

Where: Rome Capitol Theatre, 220 W Dominick Street, Rome

The Stray Cats (3)

When: Saturday, November 8, 8:00 PM

Where: The Event Center, Turning Stone Resort Casino, 5218 Patrick Rd, Verona

Uncaged – Zac Brown Tribute (4)

When: Saturday, November 15, 7:00 PM

Where: Foothills Performing Arts & Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta

FJ – A Tribute to Foreigner & Journey (Featuring Constantine Maroulis) (5)

When: Saturday, November 15, 8:00 PM

Where: The Showroom, Turning Stone Resort Casino, 5218 Patrick Rd, Verona

Alana Springsteen (6)

When: Sunday, November 16, 8:00 PM

Where: The Showroom, Turning Stone Resort Casino, 5218 Patrick Rd, Verona

Live Dead & Brothers – Grateful Dead / Allman Members (7)

When: Wednesday, November 19, 7:30 PM

Where: The Stanley Theatre, 261 Genesee Street, Utica

High ’N’ Dry – The Ultimate Def Leppard Tribute Concert (8)

When: Saturday, November 22, 6:30 PM

Where: The Parish on Broadway, 730 Broadway, Utica

CHECK OUT ALL THE EVENTS THIS MONTH!

DECEMBER 14 | 7:30 PM

DECEMBER 15 | 11 AM & 7:30 PM

The Mohawk Valley Pie Trail

11 Slices to Savor the Flavors of the Season

By Brianna Miner

The chill in the air and the changing leaves can only mean one thing: the holiday season is upon us. And what better way to celebrate than with the sweet, delicious goodness of pie. From local bakeries and homestyle diners to farm-fresh markets and stands, the Mohawk Valley is serving up some seriously satisfying slices—and whole pies—that the whole family will love.

Whether you prefer the fall classics of apple and pumpkin, the lightness of cream, or something more unique, here are eleven places to consider for your holiday pie fix.

2 Campbell’s Diner

1 Fly Creek Cider Mill

288 Goose Street, Fly Creek • (607) 547-9692 • flycreekcidermill.com

This well-known fall destination offers fun for the whole family, but don’t forget to indulge in a slice of pie before you go home. With flavors such as apple caramel nut, blueberry, or “fruits of the farm,” these pies can be enjoyed by the slice or a la mode— because pie and ice cream are the perfect pairing for your taste buds.

10208 State Route 28, Forestport • 315) 392-2013

Family owned and operated for over 25 years, Campbell’s Diner is not only a great place to get breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but a destination for dessert, too. The top pie flavors include raspberry cream, chocolate peanut butter, and fresh apple

3 Juliano Farms LLC

2365 State Route 5, Utica • (315) 735-9385

A great farm market for all your fall decor needs such as mums, gourds, and pumpkins, don’t forget to hit up the bakery at Juliano Farms for your fall flavors, too. They’re serving up the classics of apple, dutch apple, and pumpkin for you to enjoy this holiday season.

A Taste of Stars Hollow A Taste of Stars Hollow

*Available until Thanksgiving!

5 Holland Farms

50 Oriskany Boulevard, Yorkville (Also now in Manlius!) (315) 736-6044 • hollandfarms.com

4 North Star Orchards

4741 State Route 233, Westmoreland (315) 853-1024 • northstarorchards.com

A beloved farm market and bakery, North Star Orchards has been a Mohawk Valley staple since 1986. Their in-house bakery offers freshly prepared, made-from-scratch pies and other delicacies every day of the week. With ten enticing flavors, including pumpkin, apple crumb, mince, peach, and cherry, these pies come in six-inch or nine-inch sizes, perfect for sharing.

A not-so-hidden gem in Yorkville, Holland Farms is well known for their beloved Half Moon cookies and the Utica tradition of tomato pie. Amidst their menu of mouthwatering treats is a selection of homemade pies that deserve their own fame. Offering flavors of cream pies and double crust fruit pies in both slices and whole pies, there’s always something yummy to choose from.

6 Gingerbread Bake Shop

3991 Oneida Street, New Hartford (315) 737-5460

This small bakery has a loyal following for a reason. The sweet treats pack a punch at Gingerbread Bake Shop, and their seasonal pies are no exception. Bursting with flavor and baked to perfection, we guarantee you’ll be asking for seconds.

Rosito’s Bakery

37 James Street, Amsterdam • (518) 842-2616 • rositosbakerydeli.com

The sweet treats of Rosito’s Bakery have been satisfying customers since 1993. And what’s not to love about their made-to-order pie offerings? With ten flavors offered year-round and another selection of holiday favorites, these pies will surely delight, whether you choose a fruit pie like blueberry or pineapple, a banana cream or lemon meringue, or a holiday staple like pecan or berry

Bonnie’s Country Store

11821 Woodhull Road, Forestport (315) 392-7072

This store is known to deliver both smalltown charm and big flavor. They offer over 20 seasonal and year-round flavors, such as pecan, raspberry crumble, and blueberry, in both nine-inch and six-inch sizes. Whether you’re looking for your own sweet treat or something to share with the family, the pies at Bonnie’s Country Store promise to wow you.

Cakery Café

12 South Main Street, Dolgeville • (315) 429-9591 • cakerycafeny.com

You can’t go wrong with a custom pie order from Cakery Café. Always made from scratch, they offer ten delicious cream and fruit pie options to choose from. Ranging from apple and cherry berry to death by chocolate and peanut butter, there is sure to be a flavor (or several) that will satisfy your taste buds.

10 Schoharie Valley Farms

5605 State Route 30, Schoharie (518) 295-7139 • schoharievalleyfarms.com

If their delicious carrot cakes, cookies, and brownies are any indication of the delectable flavors found in their bakery, then the pies at Schoharie Valley Farms are not to be missed. They’re offered seasonally and just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday.

11 Patty Jean’s Country Restaurant

8318 State Route 28, Newport • (315) 845-8877

Nestled in Newport, Patty Jean’s Country Restaurant is serving up delicious meals and the perfect pies to go with them. Flavors range from strawberry rhubarb and coconut cream to apple crisp and raspberry. Always homemade and featuring made-from-scratch custards, any choice is sure to satisfy this holiday season.

Worth the Drive

If you’re looking to enjoy the journey—and the sights of upstate New York in the fall—as much as the destination (that piece of pie on a fork heading for your mouth), then here are four places that are well worth the drive. Visit Smith’s Orchard and Bake Shop in Ballston Spa, where they offer over twenty flavors of pie in both large and mini sizes, perfect if you’re feeding the family or just in need of a sweet treat for yourself. Magpies on Pink Street, located in Delancey, announces their pie options every Tuesday, offering customers two new delectable flavors every week. If you’re looking for some family fun with your slice of pie, then head on over to Beak and Skiff Apple Orchards in Lafayette or Tim’s Pumpkin Patch in Marietta, where you can pick your own apples or pumpkins, wander their respective gift shops, and, of course, indulge in sweet treats. Whether you are a diehard apple pie fan or a pumpkin pie fanatic, these destinations will not disappoint!

Don’t miss Friendly Bake Shop, located at 122 E. Main Street in Frankfort — a beloved local favorite known for its hand pies, baked fresh all year long. When the holiday season arrives, the ovens turn out full-sized pies in classic flavors like fruit, pumpkin, and chocolate custard. Go early if you’re hoping to snag one of their legendary donuts — they sell out fast!

Other Local Places We Love

• Eddie’s Paramount Diner

• Savicki’s Farm Market

• Salvatore’s Italian Bakery & Bagel Shoppe

• Pumpernickel’s Deli

The Restaurant Guide

Family owned and operated, Ohio Tavern offers a cozy, consistent dining experience 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 and visitors, especially hunters and snowmobilers. The menu spotlights creative specials alongside customer favorites like Fish Fry, Riggies and Reubens. This is a favorite time of year at the Tavern for comfort food specials like Hot Covered Turkey Dinner & Mini Stuffed Pumpkins (as seen on WKTV). They also offer a variety of decadent desserts made locally in Newport at The Mixing Bowl by Mackenzie. Check out Facebook and Instagram for daily menus and drink specials.

2755 NY‑8, Cold Brook, NY; (315) 826 5050; Open Wed–Sat 12–9pm; Sun 12–8pm; Mon–Tue closed.

Known for its warm atmosphere and homemade Italian-American cuisine, The Black Stallion in Vernon offers favorites like Chicken Riggies, Italian Greens, arancini, steaks, fresh seafood, and homemade desserts. Seasonal menus feature locally sourced ingredients, generous portions, and attentive service. Catering is also available for any size event.

5656 State Route 5, Vernon; (315) 829-2203; Wed–Thu 3–9pm; Fri–Sat 3–10pm;

FIRST RESPONDERS

Faces of Courage in the Mohawk Valley

By Carrie Byrne Putelo

Sheriff Robert Maciol

ONEIDA COUNTY SHERIFF

As a 14 year old kid, I would ride my bicycle down to the New York Mills Fire Department and visit with the firemen and quickly began to look up to them, especially the Chief at that time - Ron Roman. I joined the department on my 18th birthday and 38 years later,

Each November, as we pause to give thanks, we honor the men and women who never hesitate to answer the call. They are the ones who run toward emer-

—SPONSORED BY—

gencies, bring calm to chaos, and carry our community’s safety with quiet strength and compassion.

In this special issue, Mohawk Valley Living invited local first responders to share what drives them, the moments that shaped their calling, and the gratitude that sustains them. Their stories reveal the humanity behind the uniform—people guided by purpose, experience, and service to something greater than themselves.

Together, their words remind us that gratitude is not only felt, but shown. This issue is our way of saying thank you—to those who serve and to the community partners who stand beside them.

Presented with appreciation to our sponsors: CNY Brain & Spine and First Source Federal Credit Union — organizations whose continued commitment to compassion, care, and community reflects the very spirit of those we celebrate here.

I remain a lifetime member of the department. Joining the fire department gave me the opportunity to become friends with several of the New York Mills Police Officers and I proudly became a police officer with them two years later at the age of 20. Even after 36 years of being in law enforcement, I still wake up excited for what’s ahead along with knowing that whatever we do today, we will make a positive difference in someone’s life.

The most life changing call that I have ever been on was on June 7th of 2011 when Deputy Kurt B. Wyman was shot and killed in the line of duty. The events of that day and beyond were very difficult for Deputy Wyman’s Family, the members of the Sheriff’s Office, and the community.

Although it was more than 20 years ago while working as a Whitesboro Police Officer, I remember holding on to a toddler that had been very seriously injured in a car accident while Assistant Fire Chief Duane Evans and other members of the Whitesboro Fire Department performed life saving measures on her. One of the highlights of that year was when her parents brought her to the station to meet us and say thank you.

Over this past year, I am most grateful for the more than 500 dedicated men and women of the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office who put their lives on the line day after day, during some of the most challenging times, to keep the people of Oneida County safe. Our Deputy Sheriffs, Investigators, Correction Officers, School Resource Officers, Special Patrol Officers, Court Security Officers, and civilian staff members all deserve recognition for what they do.

My wife Tammy and I operate a working farm at home where we raise a herd of beef cattle along with having several horses, chickens, dogs, cats, and a donkey. Although it’s a lot of work taking care of the animals and making lots of hay in the summertime, it’s awesome therapy - especially when you saddle up one of the horses!

The diversity in law enforcement is truly inspiring as I look to the future. Departments now have specialized units that never existed before like Domestic Violence Units, Crisis Response Teams, Unmanned Aerial Units (Drones), highly trained SWAT teams, and technologically advanced Forensics Units. The future of public safety, especially in our region, is in great hands.

Anthony Arrigo

PARAMEDIC/OPERATIONS MANAGER, KUNKEL AMBULANCE SERVICE

I have always wanted to make a difference in people’s lives, an actual tangible difference and I found that in EMS. Seeing firsthand the positive impact we have on our community keeps me coming back day after day.

A cardiac arrest 2 years ago. The patient dropped in church, lifeless, no pulse, not breathing and between a coordinated effort from bystanders, FD and our ambulance we were able to bring the patient back to life! To the point they were talking to me on the way to the hospital which is unheard of! and they made a full recovery and now push for CPR training for all, and AEDs being installed in public locations that did not have one. We saved the patient’s life, and they are now responsible for possibly saving countless lives through their efforts and passion.

I am extremely grateful to have coworkers I can call family. We support and care for each other, we are there for one another and all share a very special bond, that bond is hard to find, but when you do, you cherish it!

When you believe in the mission, the reason you are here, it’s no longer a job, it’s a calling. While times do occasionally get stressful, we have each other to lean on. People with similar experiences who are always there to help lift you up and bring you back to center.

In the grand scheme of things EMS is still in its infancy as a profession, I love to see the new technology that is always evolving, each time making patient care and survivability more obtainable for both patients and providers. With that a new generation of hungry, compassionate providers steadily flowing in that we can impart our knowledge and experience on, passing the metaphorical torch to them.

Tressa LaBella LIEUTENANT, UTICA FIRE DEPARTMENT

I like helping people. I’ve always been a big believer in small acts of kindness. Pursuing a job in such a fulfilling career made a lot of sense to me. I’m committed to my job because I’m committed to keeping the people I work with safe and the community I serve.

It’s not one call in particular. Some calls don’t always end well, so for me it’s being able to look a family member in the eye and relay good news. When those take place, it reminds me of why I’m in this profession.

For my support system, and that’s my family. I have a big support system and I pride myself on being there for others, but also knowing I have people there for me, both at home and with the people I work with.

That’s a tough one, because I think people in my profession are prone to burnout. My dad always says “ don’t sweat the small stuff, it’s all small stuff.” I try to remember that, and it helps me to navigate through the stressful times I’m faced with. I also like to read and workout, so those are definitely outlets for me.

I hope the next generation of first responders continue to mirror our community. For me it’s about visibility, I hope future generations see themselves in the diverse group of first responders we have and hopefully it gives them the inspiration to achieve their goals.

“As we gather in this season of gratitude, I want to give thanks to the men and women who protect, serve and strengthen Oneida County every day. Our law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMTs, paramedics and 911 dispatchers embody courage, compassion and commitment in the face of challenge. The dedication of our first responders keeps our communities safe and our families secure, and for that, we are forever grateful.”

—

Anthony J. Picente Jr., Oneida County Executive

Matthew Borden

EMT-B, KUNKEL AMBULANCE SERVICE

At 18, I nearly lost my life to illness, and it was the calm, skilled medical team around me that kept both me and my mother grounded. That experience opened my eyes to the impact first responders have in someone’s darkest moments. It inspired me to dedicate my life to being that same source of strength and reassurance for others.

On July 17, 2023, my partner Anthony and I revived a patient whose odds of survival in the field were less than 10%. It was one of those moments that truly reinforced why I chose this career. Seeing that patient later visit the station and stay in touch over time reminded me how powerful teamwork and persistence can be.

I’m most grateful for my two sons, Brantley and Lucca, who give me strength and purpose every day. They remind me why it’s important to show up fully, both as a responder and as a father. My family keeps me grounded no matter how chaotic the work gets.

Balance comes from cherishing every second with my family and not taking time for granted. I make it a rule to never go to bed angry and to always remind my loved ones how much they mean to me. Even small moments of peace help recharge my mind and heart.

Despite all the negativity in the world, I still believe there are more good people than bad. The next generation is entering this field with stronger training, better technology, and a deep sense of compassion. Their drive and heart give me faith that the future of EMS is in good hands.

Marissa Vomer

OFFICER, UTICA POLICE DEPARTMENT, CRISIS RESPONSE TEAM, K9 UNIT

I became a police officer because I’ve always had a strong desire to help people and I quickly learned that I wasn’t built for a desk job. From my first day on the job, I knew I had found my calling. The difficult days are inevitable, but the good moments when you know you’ve made a difference make it all worthwhile and keep me committed.

One call that has always stayed with me involved helping a woman reconnect with her adult son who struggled with addiction. After many conversations, he eventually entered rehab and stayed sober for nearly two years before sadly losing his battle with addiction. His mother later included me in his obituary, thanking me for helping give her that time with him. I keep that obituary on my desk as a reminder that what might seem small to me can have a profound impact on someone else.

In my work, I’m most grateful to serve on our Crisis Response Team and to work alongside my K9 partner, Penny. I never imagined my career would lead me here, and I truly love what I do.

In my life, I’m deeply grateful for my family. Their support means everything to me.

In my community, I’m thankful for the local agencies that work tirelessly to help those in need; their compassion and dedication inspire me daily.

I try to keep work and home separate as much as possible. When I’m home, my focus is completely on my family. They are like my reset button. Spending time with them reminds me of what’s most important and helps me recharge for whatever comes next.

I’m hopeful that the next generation will continue breaking down the stigma around mental health in law enforcement. It’s encouraging to see more agencies creating peer support programs and offering post-critical incident seminars to help officers process difficult experiences. As awareness grows, I believe we’ll see healthier officers, stronger communities, and hopefully, fewer officers’ lives lost to suicide.

Penny K9 PARTNER

Comprehensive. Collaborative. Complete Care.

Dr. Nicholas Qandah

Minimally Invasive Spine Specialist Neurosurgeon

Dr. Satish Krishnamurthy Neuro-Oncology Neuro-Vascular Neurosurgeon

Dr. M. Asad Khalid Sports Medicine Joint Replacement Orthopedic Surgeon

Dr. Edgar Remotti

Interventional Pain and Spine Specialist Anesthesiology/Pain

We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Edgar Remotti, Harvard-Trained, Interventional Pain Management Specialist, to the CNY Brain & Spine team. Dr. Remotti’s arrival reflects our commitment to expanding access to world-class physicians and advanced treatment options in the Mohawk Valley.

Zachary Capron

PARAMEDIC, AMR OF CNY AND AMCARE AMBULANCE

I was raised in a family of first responders, and some of my earliest memories are of spending time at the firehouse with my mother, who began her career as an EMT and later became a nurse. Her dedication to helping others made a strong impression on me from a young age. As soon as I was old enough, I joined the local fire department and quickly realized how meaningful it was to serve my community. That experience motivated me to pursue my EMT certification, and eventually, I became a paramedic to expand the ways I could help others. While the work can be demanding, I find constant motivation in the opportunity to make a difference. Each day brings new chal-

Nicholas Capron

LIEUTENANT/ PARAMEDIC- BOONVILLE FIRE CO & PARAMEDIC SUPERVISORAMCARE AMBULANCE

What got me interested in becoming a first responder was growing up around it, my mother was an EMT and a member of our local fire department so it only felt right to continue that. What truly keeps me committed is the fact that I can truly make a difference in someone’s life on their worst day.

A call that impacted me was when I was a Basic EMT, I had a lady that was unresponsive. The cause was unknown but I had done everything that I could do. I knew I needed a Paramedic and there wasn’t any available. At this point I realized that I needed to further my education and take my Paramedic class to provide a higher level of care to the patients in my community.

I am most grateful for my wife, family, and my work family. They are there to help push through the tough moments when things

lenges and chances to learn and grow, both personally and professionally, and that’s what continues to fuel my commitment to this field.

During my time as a first responder, I’ve responded to a wide range of calls — from routine transports to high-acuity emergencies. The ones that stay with me the most are the moments where I’ve had the opportunity to truly make a difference in someone’s life. One call that had a lasting impact on me was the first time I was part of a team that successfully resuscitated a patient in cardiac arrest ,something that’s rare to see in the field. Being there in that critical moment and watching everything we train for come together reminded me why this work matters. It showed me the power of teamwork, preparation, and staying calm under pressure. That experience really solidified my commitment to this profession. I’m most grateful for the opportunity to help train the next generation of first responders. In my current role, I’m not just a paramedic, I’m also a preceptor, which gives me the chance to guide new providers as they step into a career of service. Watching someone grow from a nervous student into a confident, capable provider is incredibly rewarding. It’s a privilege to pass along the knowledge, lessons, and experiences I’ve gained, knowing that what I share today can help save lives tomorrow. Being part of someone’s journey in this field is one of the most meaningful parts of my career.

don’t go right. My work family especially helps when there is a rough call and you are all just there together.

Kerry Carville

SERGEANT, UTICA POLICE DEPARTMENT

Since I was little, I have been that protector of others- whether it be my siblings, friends or even my parents- always wanting to do whatever possible to make their lives easy and happy. I strive to help others and it brings me so much joy in my career to protect and serve my own community.

Early in my career there was a young woman in her teens who was brought here from an island to be adopted. She struggled so much overcoming the trauma from her childhood - she often became aggressive, destructive and acted out and this led to almost destroying the adoption. I responded to many calls at her home and eventually created a trusting relationship with her- it took years, but seeing her light up when she saw it was me that showed up at her house to help her and how I was always able to calm her down really meant something to me. I made it my duty to try to connect with the “difficult ones” and to see hope when others couldn’t. She showed me that glimmer of hope in her eyes and it guided me throughout my career - I still think of her when things sometimes feel hopeless and it helps me remember why I do this work and love to help. I will always answer this question by saying my faith and my family. I love the work I do but it doesn’t come easy. My family supports me each and every day through the lowest and proudest moments of my career and I would not be able to do this job without them.

Victoria Finley

PARAMEDIC SUPERVISOR AT AMCARE AMBULANCE

I was looking for a career change from waitressing, so in 2014 I took the EMT course and became an EMT shortly after. Being able to walk into a stranger’s house on their worst day, quickly gain their trust and truly be able to help them when they really need the support keeps me committed to the work.

To me, it’s not always the

major traumas or neardeath saves that change your life. The decisions you make for other peo-

Rachel Gural

FLIGHT NURSE, MERCY FLIGHT CENTRAL, GRIFFISS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

When I was a new nurse, being a flight provider seemed like the pinnacle of what I could achieve - it was a “someday” goal. Now, it’s an “every day” goal to keep showing up, putting up, and being part of a team I am very proud of.

About seven years ago, when I was new to HEMS, my partner and I responded to a scene call where a law enforcement officer lost his life. It was eye-opening for me to experience the true professionalism and dedication of the providers around me as they responded valiantly to a tragedy involving an individual that several of them knew on a personal basis. When faced with similar situations, I now strive for that level of exemplary behavior in hopes that it will allow me to support those around me, just as I felt supported years ago.

I’m beyond grateful for the members of my team: the pilots, paramedics, and nurses at MFC are a fantastic example

ple when they are most vulnerable impact my life. The decisions are not always easy and not always black and white, but they are important to the patient and they are important to me.

I am grateful for my husband who has continued to support me with every move that I have ever made. AmCare, who has become more than a family to me. Also my community which has given me the opportunity to grow into the person I am today.

of symbiosis in what can be some of the highest-stakes situations possible. Without each other, we are nothing.

LIEUTENANT/PARAMEDIC, ILION FIRE DEPARTMENT

I began this journey in 1998 as a volunteer for the Frankfort Fire Department. I became an EMT in 1999, was hired as a career in 2010, and became a paramedic in 2011.

I’ve always strived to help others, be there in need. Protect and provide for my community and those surrounding. I’m fortunate to have been given the privilege to serve our residents of Ilion.

It’s pretty difficult to nail down one particular incident that has made a lasting impact on me. We work together as a team, either a house fire that may have impacted us as a crew, or a positive outcome during a cardiac arrest. It’s all of us together that make a difference. Not one individual.

I’m grateful for the opportunity and the ability to serve as a firefighter and as a paramedic. The men and women that I work with are what makes this career possible. We are a small department, and rely on one another day in and day out. We are a family and it takes all of us to be successful.

“It is an honor to support those whose quick actions and steady hands save lives every day. Their courage inspires everything we do in medicine.”

— Dr. Nicholas Qandah, CNY Brain & Spine

Stan Dorozynski

Greg Myers

FLIGHT NURSE, MERCY FLIGHT CENTRAL, GRIFFISS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

I’ve been a first responder for many years, dedicating nearly the last 13 to Mercy Flight Central. My inspiration comes from a deep family tradition of involvement in emergency services, with my parents, siblings, and grandparents all having served in some capacity. Today, my commitment is sustained by recognizing the significant, tangible impact we have on our community during its most critical moments.

It is difficult to single out one call, as every incident where we respond to critical need is profound and impactful. My experience has quickly taught me just how fragile and precious life truly is, meaning every mission—big or small— holds significant personal weight. Ultimately, know-

ing we make a tangible difference in our patients’ lives provides the biggest, most consistent personal reward.

I am most profoundly grateful for the patience and enduring support of my family. This line of work often demands sacrifices, requiring us to miss important life events with loved ones. Those missed moments simply make the time we are able to spend together even more cherished and meaningful.

Richard Harvey

CRITICAL CARE TECH, SUPERVISOR FOR AMCARE AMBULANCE

Seeing my father being a volunteer and helping others inspired me to become a first responder. My father was and always will be my hero, and helping others in their time of need — and helping new providers exceed — continues to inspire me.

A 9-year-old cardiac arrest that was a code save. Going to see him in the

Jenn Samson

AEMT & AMBULANCE CAPTAIN, J.S. KOSTER HOSE COMPANY, INC.

My inspiration to become a first responder began when my father suffered a heart attack. Although I wasn’t there when it happened, hearing about how the first responders’ quick actions and calm professionalism saved his life made a lasting impact on me. Their dedication motivated me to pursue a path where I could do the same for others, and I remain committed to this work because it allows me to provide help, hope, and care in someone’s most critical moment.

The most life-changing call I’ve responded to involved two young children who were seriously injured in a head-on ATV collision. One of the boys was criti-

hospital the following day and having him run up to me, give me a hug, and say “thank you for saving my life so that my parents and brother and sister won’t be sad” — that moment will stay with me forever. I’m grateful for my coworkers — with the demand on EMS, they’ve all stepped up. Some of my coworkers have really come out of their comfort zone and have exceeded expectations to become outstanding providers. I’m also grateful for the support of my wife as I’m in a paramedic online class.

cally hurt and barely hanging on when we arrived, and working quickly to stabilize him and get him into the ambulance for air transport was one of the most intense and emotional moments I’ve ever experienced. When he finally came home from the hospital, our department brought the fire trucks to his house to welcome him back, and seeing the tears in his eyes as he thanked us reminded me why I chose this profession—to be there when every second counts and to play even a small part in giving someone a second chance at life. I’m grateful for my coworkers, who have become like family and constantly encourage me to step outside my comfort zone and grow. The experiences and knowledge I’ve gained through this work have not only made me better at what I do, but have also helped me become a stronger, more confident person.

Todd Stevens

FIREFIGHTER/REGISTERED NURSE

My inspiration for becoming a first responder comes from my family. Growing up with my father being in law enforcement and my 3 older brothers all first responders as well ( 2 in law enforcement and 1 Fire service) I was always surrounded by it. The gratification of helping my community and the relationships built through my career has kept me committed to the work.

I have had many interesting calls in my career thus far. Though something that has stuck with me to this day came from my nursing career. It was a patient who talked about the importance of time. They talked about enjoying family, friends and all the little things early in life while we are still healthy and able. As most of the time people look towards retirement as being the time that you get to enjoy all the things you have worked most of your life for. Your health is never guaranteed and no one knows what the future may bring. So the best thing you can do is to enjoy as much of it as you can while you can.

In life, I am most grateful for my family. As demanding as the fire service and nursing can be, I have always had the best support when it comes to my family. I consider my brothers and father not just family but my best friends. We have always had a close relationship and are always there for each other no matter the situation. At work, I am most grateful for my coworkers. A 24hr shift brings a lot of opportunity for critical situations and emergencies. However my coworkers at the firehouse are like an extended family. We are all close and support each other both on the job and outside. I am very thankful for my coworkers and grateful for the opportunity given to me to give back to my community.

Jaimie Stasio

FIREFIGHTER, CITY OF ROME

I was called to change professions and become a firefighter in my 30’s after assisting someone back to life from an overdose. Being the first female, first firefighter married to a fireman, and first pregnant woman in our department, I remain committed today because I get to be a trailblazer for those who serve after me. I hope to see women thriving in a male dominated profession one day.

After responding to a suicide call last year, I am more aware of the fragility of humans. We see many tragic incidents and are exposed to cumulative stress on the job, but seeing someone take their own life has made me pause more often to consider what others may be facing in silence.

I am most grateful this past year to have given birth to a beautiful and healthy baby boy. Navigating motherhood and a full time career has had many challenges and adjustments, all of which I thank God for. I have a very full and rich life which I appreciate, even on the worst days.

Larry Tamburrino

CRITICAL CARE TECH AT AMCARE AND LAKE

DELTA FD

I am a past Chief of the Lake Delta volunteer fire department. I served as Chief for 14 1/2 years and am now currently the first Assistant chief. I first joined the fire department in 1990 and I have been very active in participating in fire training and EMS.

I’ve often been asked why do you volunteer and do what you do without getting paid. Many people don’t realize that there are many areas in this country that aren’t covered by paid or career fire departments and rely solely on their volunteer departments. When I was chief of the fire department, I used to be very involved in the fun drive and I would read the special notes that Citizens in our community would write thanking us for responding to their emergency when we are called to a house, a school or on the side of the road to help somebody. I remember that this is that person worst day and we are there to help.

One call that comes to mind is we were called to respond to an elderly female who became tangled in a motorized stationary bicycle in her living room.

Her ankle was caught in the pedal mechanism and the motor would not stop, once it felt the ankle getting caught in the peddle. The end result was a significant injury of her right ankle, however, we run an advanced life support rescue with paramedics and EMTs, and they were able to medicate this patient while other fire department members help disentangle her ankle from the mechanism of the bicycle, and she was transported to a hospital and successfully went through surgery and is able to walk as if nothing has ever happened. That is a success. Every call does make a difference in someone’s life however, this one seems to stand out in my memory. Without the support of my wife and family, I cannot have continued to do this service.

Starr Wooden

LIEUTENANT,

UTICA POLICE DEPARTMENT

What inspired me to be a first responder was when Officer Thomas Lindsey was killed in the line of duty. I was aware of the divide between the community and law enforcement and felt that by me being from the area maybe I could help foster better relationships between UPD and the community. What keeps me committed to being in this career is the fact that even though there is still a long way to go, each small act continues to add to the community bank account.

Matthew Yelton

FLIGHT PARAMEDIC & CLINICAL SUPERVISOR, MERCY FLIGHT CENTRAL, GRIFFISS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

My drive to become a first responder was ignited by grow-

The most interesting call I have responded to was when I was a rookie officer. I was responding to a disorderly person call and

ing up in a rural community, where I watched friends, families, and neighbors consistently come together to help those in need. The opportunity to give back to the community that I call home ultimately fuels my commitment to continue this service. I am committed to serving to the best of my ability for as long as I am capable.

Having served as a first responder for the better part of 15 years, it wouldn’t do justice to the overall impact of all my patient encounters to single out just one as the most life changing. Instead, what impacts me most is the universal trust placed in us to care for someone during their darkest, most critical hour. These peo-

while I was en route I stumbled upon a house that was on fire. I immediately stopped my patrol car and began evacuating the residents who were unaware that the house was on fire. I was able to get all of the residents out of the house with no one injured. Most recently I participated in a student program and one of the children that I helped get out the house was part of the group. It felt great to see that child had grown into a young adult.

I am most grateful for all of the positive interactions that I am able to forge day in and day out in order to facilitate building bridges to combat the distrust between law enforcement and the community they serve.

ple often have no idea who we are or what we’re capable of, yet they unequivocally entrust us with the safety of their life or the lives of their loved ones without question.

I am most grateful for the opportunity to work alongside some of the industry’s most talented professionals right here in the community where I began my pre-hospital career. This means I can continue raising my family with the confidence that my loved ones will receive exceptional care and compassion from my fellow first responders in the Mohawk Valley. Knowing I can trust my community’s caregivers while serving them myself is what I appreciate most.

As we reflect on the stories shared throughout these pages, one truth becomes clear: courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to act in spite of it. Every call answered, every life saved, and every quiet moment of service is the heartbeat of the Mohawk Valley.

Our gratitude extends not only to those featured here, but to every first responder who protects and strengthens this community with compassion and resolve. We also honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Their names, their service, and their families remain forever in our hearts.

Mohawk Valley Living proudly thanks our community partners and sponsors who share this commitment to service: CNY Brain & Spine and First Source Federal Credit Union, organizations that, like our first responders, continue to make a difference where it matters most - right here at home.

IN MEMORIAM

Mohawk Valley First Responders Lost in the Line of Duty (2005–2025)

Over the past two decades, these fallen heroes gave their lives in service to others. Their courage reminds us that service is not simply what they did; it is who they were.

ONEIDA COUNTY

• Officer Joseph Daniel Corr, New Hartford Police Department, End of Watch February 27, 2006

• Officer Thomas M. Lindsey, Utica Police Department, End of Watch April 12, 2007

• Deputy Kurt B. Wyman, Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, End of Watch June 7, 2011

• Patrolman Kevin F. “Bing” Crossley, Whitesboro Police Department, End of Watch April 11, 2018

• Firefighter Michael D. Sowich, New Hartford Fire Department, End of Watch March 2, 2007

HERKIMER COUNTY

• Firefighter/Safety Officer Robert Fitch, East Herkimer Fire Department, End of Watch November 28, 2017

• K-9 Ape, Federal Bureau of Investigation (assisting local and federal teams), End of Watch March 14, 2013

OTSEGO COUNTY

• Trooper Jill E. Mattice, New York State Police (SP Oneonta), End of Watch January 20, 2010

FULTON COUNTY

• Officer Robert J. Johnson, Northville Police Department, End of Watch July 4, 2017

MONTGOMERY COUNTY

• Trooper Jeremy J. VanNostrand, New York State Police, End of Watch November 27, 2018

SCHOHARIE COUNTY

• James Foote, Summit Fire Department Commissioner, End of Watch November 2024

FROM SURVIVAL TO PURPOSE:

How One Local Miracle Sparked a Mission to Save Lives

By Carrie Byrne Putelo

It began as an ordinary Sunday morning. Ann and her husband were getting ready for a three-day Christian concert festival but decided first to attend St. Mary’s Church in New York Mills. Moments after the service began, everything changed.

“The last thing I remember was telling my husband that I did not feel well,” Ann recalls. “He yelled out for help as I collapsed. Lori, a nurse practitioner, came running from her pew. She recognized that I did not have a pulse and it was a cardiac arrest. She yelled out for 911.”

In those first critical minutes, three people inside the church became her lifeline. “Tom, a volunteer fireman, immediately started chest compressions,” she says. “Then Ryan, who was a registered nurse at the time, took over and continued for almost 15 minutes. There was not an automatic external defibrillator at church, but he was young and strong. He would not give up.”

As oxygen loss became a concern, Lori turned to Ann’s husband. “She asked him if he could do rescue breaths on his wife,” Ann says. “He learned it in the pew and on the spot.” Tom performed the breaths until first responders arrived. They continued CPR, delivered two shocks inside the church, and a third in the ambulance—moments before Ann’s heart began to beat again.

It was the teamwork inside St. Mary’s that held time still long enough for help to arrive.

The Responders

For Paramedic Anthony Arrigo and EMT

Matthew Borden, both of Kunkel Ambulance Service, that July morning was a defining moment—a call that would stay with them for life.

Arrigo, now Operations Manager, describes EMS as more than a job but a calling. Saving a life that morning reaffirmed the power of teamwork, training, and faith under pressure. Borden, who entered the field after surviving a near-fatal illness at 18, says the experience deepened his belief in perseverance and the human spirit.

Both credit their tight-knit team at Kunkel for the support that sustains them, de-

scribing their coworkers as family. Their reflections speak to the heart of emergency medicine: compassion, composure, and commitment to the people they serve.

Later, Arrigo would step out of the ambulance to tell Ann’s husband she was alive again. He later told her he wished her husband could have seen his own face at that moment—a mixture of disbelief, relief, and gratitude.

A Second Chance

Ann’s life looks very different today. “I spend less energy worrying about what might happen because we cannot predict the future or control it. I value relationships more. I appreciate the essence of time, realizing there may be just minutes between life and death.”

Her mission now is education—and action. “If nothing is done, in about four minutes, cognitive impairment sets in during a cardiac arrest,” she says. “Every second counts. Education takes the fear out of action.”

She smiles when she talks about her rescuers. “To others, it might be hard to understand why a paramedic would tattoo your initials in a heart on his arm. But it gives

me such a peaceful feeling, that I’m giving hope—that a cardiac arrest can survive—to first responders.”

Today, Ann has established close relationships with her three lifesavers from church and with Anthony and Matthew, who credit that day—and bringing Ann back to life—as the most impactful moment of their careers.

Carrying It Forward

Out of that extraordinary day came a new purpose. Ann now serves as a CPR advocate and Red Cap Ambassador for the American Heart Association, speaking about the importance of quick action and training. Her team, Ann’s Angels, was named in honor of the people who saved her life and was one of the top three community teams in last year’s America’s Greatest Heart Run & Walk. This March, she’ll be walking again—side by side with friends, family, and the heroes who made her second chance possible. Through courage, skill, and purpose, one Sunday morning’s tragedy became a movement of gratitude—a living reminder that every heartbeat is a gift, and that learning to save one can change everything.

Matt Borden, Ann Furner and Anthony Arrigo during one of many reunions.

“Where Good Friends Meet”

Family owned and operated, Pumpernickel’s Deli in New Hartford offers a cozy dining experience where everything is made in-house by owner and chef Philip J. Amodio. The menu features comforting favorites like Pot Roast, Hot Covered Turkey Sandwich, and Mushroom Stew, plus freshly roasted meats, stacked sandwiches, and hearty soups—all prepared from scratch. And don’t forget to save room for dessert: Phil’s homemade pies—Apple, Blueberry, Chocolate Cream, Coconut Cream, and Chocolate Peanut Butter—are all to die for.

New Hartford Shopping Center, Center Court,120 Genesee Street ; (315) 735-8121; Mon–Wed 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Thurs–Fri 11 a.m.–8 p.m., Sat 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Closed Sunday

REVIVED IN THE STANDS:

A Mohawk Valley Lifesaver and the Power of CPR

It was supposed to be an unforgettable Sunday for a different reason. Candice and her father, Brian, were surrounded by the roar of Bills Mafia, the energy electric as fans filled Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park. The crowd was on its feet when, in an instant, everything changed.

“I remember the feeling of my dad’s face in my hands once I realized he was not in his body,” Candice says. “His normally vibrant green eyes were dull but open, his skin was gray and clammy, his mouth agape, and his chin falling to his chest. There was no breath, and the only thing holding him upright were my hands on his face. Everything around me went black.”

Amid the thunder of 70,000 fans, Candice’s world narrowed to a single, devastating realization: her father was gone. She didn’t even think of CPR; she was certain it was too late. Then, from the noise and chaos, voices began calling for help. Fans around them started shouting, their urgency rising until it broke through the stadium noise.

Somewhere in the crowd, nurse Danielle Johnson heard those calls. “I overheard yelling, but with the added panic from the situation, it was almost drowning out the normal stadium noise,” Danielle remembers. “When I heard someone specifically yell ‘we need medical help,’ I walked down toward the commotion.”

In seconds, Danielle assessed the scene, introduced herself to Candice, and immediately began CPR. “It was roughly two minutes of compressions when I saw Brian gasp for air and open his eyes,” she says. “An incredible amount of relief ran through me at that moment.”

Candice will never forget that instant. “I held his face in my hands again, this time in disbelief,” she says. “‘Dad, can you hear me?’ He said yes. ‘Can you see me?’ He said yes. It was like I watched him come back into his body, the sparkle returning to his eyes, the color to his face. I hugged him and kissed his forehead in absolute shock.”

Stadium medics arrived within moments, and the crowd erupted, not in cheers for a touchdown, but for life itself. “Complete strangers were hugging and celebrating that

he was breathing,” Danielle says. “We were no longer strangers. We were Bills Mafia.”

Brian was escorted to the stadium medical center, stabilized, and later transported back home to Clifton Springs for further evaluation. After days of testing, doctors discovered an electrical issue with his heart, an arrhythmia caused by his SA node. Within a week, he received a pacemaker and was back home, healing and grateful.

Since then, Candice and Danielle have stayed in touch, bonded by the moment that forever changed their lives. “We talk often,” Danielle says. “We even went to a game together. The reaction from Bills fans online has been overwhelming. The kind words and prayers for Brian and everyone involved show the true family dynamic of the Buffalo Bills and their fans.”

For Candice, the experience has redefined everything. “I moved back home to be closer to my family after years in California, and this reminded me I made the right choice,” she says. “It reinforced how precious time is and that letting people know you love them is the most important thing of all.”

Both Candice and Brian now hope to become CPR certified and help inspire others to do the same. “You don’t learn CPR to save your own life,” Candice says. “It might save the life of someone you love, and that might just save you too.”

Danielle agrees. “Anyone can do this,” she says. “You never know when you’ll need it or who you could save. Trust your instincts. CPR saves lives.”

Today, the three of them—Candice, Brian, and Danielle—share more than a story. They share a bond formed in the unlikeliest of places, under the brightest of stadium lights, in a moment when time stood still and hope took over.

“The American Heart Association established CPR, and updates the guidelines regularly. When Damar Hamlin collapsed, we saw that quick CPR and use of an AED is the best way to save someone who has had a sudden cardiac arrest. We created the Nation of Lifesavers with the goal of having one member of each household know Hands-Only CPR. Since we established it, 17.7 million more people know this lifesaving skill. When we see people like Ann and Brian, we are reminded of why it’s so important that every single person in the community is prepared to take action.”

— Heather Evans, Executive Director of

the American Heart Association

Barneveld’s Danielle Johnson, Brian Dodge and Candice Dodge.

GRATITUDE IN ACTION: How the Mohawk Valley Comes Together to Give Back

By Carrie Byrne Putelo

Thanksgiving has always been about more than the food on the table. It’s about the people gathered around it, and the quiet ways we care for one another as the days grow shorter and the air turns cold.

In my family, that sense of connection is what makes the day so meaningful. Every year, all of us, my mom and my Aunt Diane, my cousins and their children, and now even their children, all gather under one roof to celebrate together. My cousin Korin somehow manages to pull it all together, the food, the warmth, and the laughter, and my cousin Todd started a tradition I hope never ends. Before anyone picks up a fork, we go around the table and share what we are thankful for. It is simple, but it always ends up being the most special moment of the day. Hearing each person’s words, from the youngest to the oldest, fills the room with reflection and love. For a few quiet minutes, everything slows down, and we remember what really matters.

A friend recently shared her own Thanksgiving tradition with me that I will never forget. She and her husband start every Thanksgiving morning at church, no matter how busy the day ahead may be. For years, their priest has read the same message after Mass, Abraham Lincoln’s 1863 Thanksgiving Proclamation. It moved them so deeply that her husband began reading it aloud at their own family table after prayer each year.

Lincoln’s words remind us why this holiday exists in the first place. In the middle of the Civil War, a time of deep division and loss, he called for a national day of

“Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens.” His hope was to bring the country together, to pause, give thanks, and find unity in gratitude despite hardship.

That same spirit lives on here in the Mohawk Valley. You can see it in church basements and community centers, in kitchens filled with volunteers tying aprons, packing boxes, and serving hot meals to neighbors they may never meet. It is in the classrooms collecting cans for local food drives, the businesses hosting coat collections, and the teams of volunteers who show up every year to make sure no one spends the holiday alone.

At the heart of that work are two local organizations that turn gratitude into action every single day.

Rescue Mission of Utica

201 Rutger Street, Utica (315) 735-1645 | uticamission.org

For decades, the Rescue Mission of Utica has been at the heart of community care during the holidays. Each November, their staff and volunteers ensure that hundreds of local families, seniors, and individuals in need can share a warm meal and a reminder that they are not forgotten.

This year, the Rescue Mission’s Annual Turkey Giveaway will take place on Monday, November 24 at 2 p.m. at their main campus, 201 Rutger Street in Utica. The Utica Comets generously donate the frozen turkeys, while the Mission provides all the fixings, including potatoes, stuffing,

green beans, and baking pans. Families begin lining up well before the giveaway begins, and more than 300 full meal kits are distributed each year.

On Thanksgiving Day, the Mission will host its beloved Great Thanksgiving Feast, open to anyone in the community. Guests can enjoy a traditional meal in the main dining room from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., or request home delivery if they are unable to leave home. Meal deliveries can be reserved beginning Monday, November 3, by calling (315) 735-1645 ext. 2100 (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.).

Beyond the meal itself, the Mission’s work is powered by volunteers and donors who give their time and resources. Volunteers are needed on Thanksgiving morning to package meals for delivery, drive and deliver meals to homes, or serve and assist in the dining room during the community feast.

Ways To Help

• Volunteer on Thanksgiving Day: (315) 735-1645 ext. 2103

• Donate frozen turkeys, boxed stuffing, potatoes, green beans, and pre-packaged pies

• Monetary gifts stretch even further thanks to the Food Bank of Central New York partnership

• Donate gently used winter coats year-round (greatest need: large men’s and women’s sizes)

As the Mission notes, “Because of our relationship with the Food Bank of Central New York, every dollar goes farther. We can buy food at a fraction of retail cost or receive USDA food at no charge.”

On the Cover

Mother Marianne’s West Side Kitchen

702 Columbia Street, Utica 315-735-3289 | mmwsk.org

Mother Marianne’s West Side Kitchen began in 2008 with a simple mission: to serve soup and sandwiches to those in need. Named in honor of Saint Marianne Cope, who was raised in Utica and later devoted the final 30 years of her life to caring for those with leprosy on the island of Molokai, the kitchen continues her legacy of compassion, dignity, and service.

Today, the Kitchen has grown into a vital community resource, providing hot meals five days a week to anyone in need, with the option to dine in, take out, or bring home a bagged lunch for later. On weekends, volunteers prepare and distribute bagged lunches packed with extras, ensuring that no one goes hungry. So far this year, as of October 1, 2025, the Kitchen has served 44,424 meals, following 58,320 in 2024 and 43,182 in 2023, a steady reflection of growing community need.

Holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter bring special menus “with all the fixings,” and additional volunteers join in to serve. The kitchen operates entirely through the dedication of more than 50 volunteers, coordinated by Kitchen Manager Mike Pilat. Each day’s crew, from cooks and servers to prep teams, runs the operation “like a well-oiled machine.” The only paid staff members are a security guard and a part-time maintenance worker shared with the church.

As former director Ed Morgan once told a new volunteer, “You may be the only human contact a person has today. Make it positive.” That philosophy continues to guide every interaction at West Side Kitchen, which serves people from all walks of life, including the unhoused, refugees, single parents, senior citizens, and anyone struggling to get by.

Ways to Help

• Volunteer at the Kitchen

10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Visit mmwsk.org or email mail@westsidekitchen.org

• Volunteer at the West Side Boutique Contact Nancy Robert at nancyrobert@mmwsk.org

• Donate monetary gifts, clean clothing, footwear, coats, and new personal care items. Drop off donations Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., at 702 Columbia Street

• Support through grants or local partnerships such as Hannaford, Price Chopper, and Compassion Coalition

The West Side Boutique, established in 2018, offers guests free clothing, footwear, coats, hygiene products, and even toys for children. Guests are paired with a volunteer “personal shopper,” ensuring that every visit feels personal and dignified. The Boutique also provides free monthly haircuts, blood pressure checks, and works with local organizations to share donations throughout the community.

Each meal served, coat shared, or smile offered at Mother Marianne’s West Side Kitchen is a testament to what the Thanksgiving season embodies most: faith, gratitude, and generosity, the simple and enduring power of giving back.

The beauty of Thanksgiving is that it offers everyone a chance to be part of that culture of care. For those who want to get involved, opportunities abound. These organizations welcome donations of food, funds, and time in the weeks leading up to the holiday. Businesses can adopt families. Individuals can sign up to volunteer at a community meal or help pack food baskets. Even something as simple as checking on an elderly neighbor or dropping off a bag of groceries can make a difference. Because in the end, the heart of Thanksgiving is not found in the perfect turkey or the most elaborate table setting. It is found in quiet, shared moments of kindness, in the hands that prepare a meal for someone they have never met, and in the gratitude that grows when we choose to give.

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By Jill Hayes & Katie Reilly

WINDOWS WITH CHARACTER

Bringing Modern Design to a Cooperstown Home

To kick off the new At Home feature, it’s fitting to showcase one of the most unique and elaborate projects completed by New York Sash. This Cooperstown renovation highlights two of the biggest trends for window remodeling in 2025 – dark colors and geometric shapes - and it serves as a great showcase for what’s possible when design meets craftsmanship.

Mike and Lori Fink, owners of Tin Bin Alley—an iconic candy shop on Main Street in downtown Cooperstown—know a thing or two about family business and community commitment. Like New York Sash, they’re family-owned and dedicated to providing their customers with the very best. When it came time to remodel their home, they made the trip to our Idea & Design Center Showroom in Whitesboro to explore what we had to offer.

“Our experience with (Lead Installer) Chris and the entire crew was great! They all worked professionally and showed great respect for our home. It was a pleasure getting to know each and every person through this entire project!”

– Lori Fink, Google

Multiple meetings and visits later and the design process took off. With so many unique window sizes and shapes, this project required creative solutions and custom craftsmanship – something our team excels at. In total, 38 new windows were installed, from large picture windows that capture the scenic Cooperstown views to geometric trapezoid and triangle designs that flood the home with natural light. We also installed three matching patio doors, with future plans in discussion for composite siding to complete the exterior transformation.

Modern Design

One of the fastest-growing design trends right now is dark and bold painted windows

— and this Cooperstown home shows why. The homeowners chose a bronze exterior finish inside and out to match the current style of their home. Black exterior screens complete the look, blending into the bronze frame for a clean, seamless appearance. Painted finishes allow homeowners to add curb appeal while keeping the efficiency and performance of premium vinyl windows.

Another detail that makes this project stand out? Not a single double-hung window was installed. Every opening was carefully designed with casement, picture, awning, and slider styles—an uncommon choice that gives the home a modern look while maximizing light and ventilation.

Worry-Free Remodeling

New York Sash is a full-service company. For Mike and Lori, that meant we handled every step of the process: design, measurement, manufacturing coordination, delivery, installation, and warranty. Our goal is to make home remodeling as simple and stress-free as possible.

If you’re thinking of upgrading your window, siding, bath or doors but don’t know where to start - visit the New York Sash Idea & Design Center Showroom. You can see our products installed in real displays, have your questions answered and set up a time to meet with one of our experienced Design Consultants at your home.

Project for a Purpose

November is a great time to stop in. We’re hosting Projects for a Purpose in honor of Veteran’s Month. For every in-home price quote we schedule from the Showroom, we will donate $50 to Feed Our Vets, a local food pantry supporting Veterans and their families. And because we believe everyone deserves a chance to save, we’re extending our 22% Veteran’s Discount to all customers throughout November.

If bright bold colors and geometric shapes is your style – or you prefer a classic double hung with colonial grids – a new bathtub upgrade or tub to shower conversion – or maybe you just really need a new entry door – trust New York Sash. Let us show you what we mean when we say, Let Our Family Take Care Of Your Family.

THE APARTMENT CONNECTION

Deborah Bali • Andrew Samel • Angela Pohleven

My Thanksgiving Tradition: Swedish Apple Pie

By Joanne Donaruma Wade

I’ve always loved to bake, but Thanksgiving is when my kitchen truly comes alive. Every year, I host my entire family—and somehow, I end up making about fifteen pies. One of my favorites is a Swedish apple pie, a recipe a coworker passed along to me years ago when I was working at The Arc. It’s been part of my Thanksgiving table ever since.

What I love most about this pie is its simplicity. I start by peeling and seasoning fresh apples with a little cinnamon and sugar, then arranging them in a glass pie dish. In one bowl, I mix butter and egg; in another, flour, sugar, and salt. I combine the two, stir in chopped walnuts, and spread the batter evenly over the apples. As it bakes, the topping transforms into a golden, buttery shell with a soft crunch and a warm, comforting aroma that fills the kitchen. It’s elegant in its ease—and always a crowd favorite.

Thanksgiving Traditions

in the Mohawk Valley

We asked Mohawk Valley residents to share some of their most cherished Thanksgiving traditions.

Judy Galimo

With so many children, nieces, nephews and cousins in the LaBella family, a new Thanksgiving tradition we have started over the last 10 years has been our annual touch football game Thanksgiving morning. Cider and donuts afterwards!

Jenna Peppenelli

My thanksgiving tradition is … no matter where everyone eats their main meal, we all end up at my cousin’s home to play cards after dinner. I’ve always been thankful for those pitch games where we spend time, laugh and banter with each other.

Amy DeMetri

One of the things I remember most vividly and had a great impact on me and our larger Italian family was Thanksgiving prayer. My grandfather, Felix, (Phil), Vennero, would stand at the table every year, raise his glass of red wine and give thanks to God for all our blessings!

Batter:

• ¾ cup melted butter

• 1 cup flour

Ingredients:

• 9–12 peeled apples

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 1 tablespoon sugar

Although he’d recite prayer in Italian, we all understood each and every year, his greatest blessing was his family, each and every one of us!

We do continue with this tradition, however, it’s in English, but has the same meaning, la familia, family. This exercise brings back so many wonderful memories and reminds me what a wonderful life I’ve lived.

Marianne Hagadorn

Every Wednesday before Thanksgiving, my son Logan and I bake all of our pies from scratch. It’s a tradition I carry on from my Grandmother, my Father’s mother. I don’t have a lot of memories of her, so it is one that I cherish and am thrilled to pass it on to my son.

Danielle McDonough

Every year, I make my childhood best friend’s aunt’s stuffing. Aunt Becky made the best stuffing, at least in my opinion (I grew up on stove top). It has cranberries and apples, fresh herbs (sage, rosemary and thyme), and a lot of butter. The recipe feeds an army, so I now give it to my neighbors to feed their families too. It’s now a multiple family tradition!

Kathy Caruso

Thanksgiving is truly a time to give thanks and be grateful for

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 egg

• Dash of salt

• ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts)

everything God has given us. Health or healing, for a a wonderful community to live in, friends and family...and for the years given with them. Simple joys of time together. Since most of our family now has gone or moved away, our traditions have changed but one thing that was always special to Thanksgiving for me, was making something that was individualized for each person, no matter how many we were. To let everyone know that they were important. One year everyone got their own stuffed cornish hen, another year a stuffed squash, and another personal sized pies.

Maria Murad Blais

Thanksgiving is so special and full of holiday traditions for us- we wake up and start cooking our family recipes right away! We watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade while enjoying some of the food that’s cooking. One of our favorite traditions is writing what we are thankful for in a basket and during dinner, each family member reads a card and we all guess who is thankful for what! Thanksgiving is a holiday full of family, food and truly spending quality time together!

Gail Belden Harrington

Every Thanksgiving, our family finds its rhythm — familiar

Directions:

Toss sliced apples in cinnamon and sugar.

Place in a glass pie plate. Pour batter over the top of the apples. Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.

dishes, small surprises, and lots of laughter. Aunt Shirley’s scalloped carrots are always on the table, creamy and golden as ever. My baked cranberries — now “Gail’s Signature Baked Cranberries” — began as a simple recipe but evolved with grapes, craisins, and pineapple. They’ve been a favorite since the first time Grandmama served them. Courtney makes the best stuffing (never inside the turkey!), and Brittany carries on her great-grandmother’s centuryold pumpkin pie recipe. Shane’s specialty comes the next day — thick turkey sandwiches with stuffing and a scoop of cranberries. For us, Thanksgiving is about more than food — it’s the memories, the laughter, and the love behind every dish.

Mary Jane Tottey

Well, the first year I was a single Mom I was determined to cook the entire Thanksgiving feast on my own as my former husband was the chef in the family. Unfortunately, the only cook book I was left with was the Mickey Mouse cook book. Consequently, our menu was Mowgli Fruit Salad, Tom Thumb Turkey, Minnie Mouse mashed potatoes and Goofy Green Bean Bake. Recalling that turkeys often

had pop ups indicating readiness, I purchased several to be sure ol’Tom was cooked! When time was up our roast turkey resembled a porcupine. The people at the Butterball Hotline were most gracious and talked me through the process. While our dinner would not win a culinary competition, my three Disney Princesses were most complimentary…for which I was most thankful!

Catherine (Sciortino) Pillmore

When I was young, Thanksgiving at my Aunt Nancy Sciortino’s was a celebration fit for a king. The table came alive with festive tissue Tom Turkeys and paper cloths covered in smiling Pilgrims, while the smell of her perfectly roasted turkey drifted down the street. More than the food, it was about our little family gathered together — one more year, one more blessing. The next morning meant Black Friday adventures at the Riverside Mall in North Utica — bundled up, chasing the best deals with the other early birds. Those simple days were magical: a kitchen filled with love, warmth, and laughter. Now, as Nonna to nine grandchildren, I try to bring back a bit of that magic — tissue Tom Turkeys and all.

Mary Beth’s Swedish Apple Pie

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Squash Lasagna

This lasagna is the answer to my longtime desire to incorporate winter squash into a pasta dish without the result being overly sweet, heavy, or monotonous. Right in time for the holidays, I envision this as a suitably autumnal vegetarian entree at Thanksgiving and beyond!

Honeynut squash has rich, dense ﬂesh and fewer seeds than butternut, but you can substitute butternut, kabocha, or red kuri. Homemade pasta adds great ﬂavor; if rolling by hand, aim for 1 mm thickness—or use boxed noodles. A food processor helps, but everything can be done by hand.

Read through before starting—some steps can (and should) be done in advance. The squash purée keeps up to 4 days; the ricotta layer and pasta dough can be made a day ahead. Bring chilled dough to room temp for 1 hour before rolling. Drain any excess liquid from the ricotta mixture before using. Make béchamel shortly before assembly.

Pasta

2¼ cups (270 g) ﬂour

3 eggs

In a food processor, combine ﬂour and eggs until a cohesive ball forms. Wrap tightly and rest 1 hour (or overnight in fridge).

Squash Purée

Béchamel

Assemble

Squash Purée

3 lb honeynut squash (yields ~2 cups)

2 tsp red wine vinegar

2 tsp red wine vinegar Chili ﬂakes, kosher salt, black pepper

Chili ﬂakes, kosher salt, black pepper

Preheat oven 350°F. Prick squash, roast on parchment 1 hour, then cool in oven. Scoop out seeds, scrape ﬂesh into processor, and purée until smooth. Add salt, vinegar, chili ﬂakes, and pepper; blend again. Set aside.

Spinach–Ricotta Layer

1 (12 oz) bag frozen spinach, defrosted and drained well

1 (15 oz) container whole-milk ricotta

1 (12 oz) bag frozen spinach, defrosted and drained well

1 (15 oz) container whole-milk ricotta

2 garlic cloves, lightly crushed

¼ cup olive oil

Kosher salt, black pepper

2 garlic cloves, lightly crushed ¼ cup olive oil

Kosher salt, black pepper

Warm oil and garlic 10 min over medium heat until fragrant; cool slightly. In processor, combine ricotta, spinach (squeezed dry), garlic and oil, 1 tsp salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and green.

2½ cups (570 g) whole milk, room temp

3 Tbsp unsalted butter

3 Tbsp ﬂour

½ tsp kosher salt, black pepper

½ tsp kosher salt, black pepper Melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in ﬂour until golden. Gradually add milk ½ cup at a time, whisking until smooth. Reduce heat to low, stir in salt, then whisk in squash purée spoonful by spoonful until silky. Adjust seasoning.

Melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in ﬂour until golden. Gradually add milk ½ cup at a time, whisking until smooth. Reduce heat to low, stir in salt, then whisk in squash purée spoonful by spoonful until silky. Adjust seasoning.

Cheeses

Preheat oven 400°F. Lightly oil a 9×13 dish and spread a thin layer of béchamel (just enough to coat the bottom). Cut one pasta sheet vertically in half and arrange to cover. You’ll make six layers total—reserve the seventh sheet to patch gaps.

dish and spread a thin layer of béchamel (just enough to coat the bottom). Cut one pasta sheet vertically in half and arrange to cover. You’ll make six layers total—reserve the seventh sheet to patch gaps.

Layer in order: Pasta

Layer in order:

Pasta

Thin béchamel

Dollops of ricotta mixture

Cheeses

8 oz fresh mozzarella, grated

8 oz Parmesan, grated or microplaned

Roll the Pasta

Bring chilled dough to room temp for 1 hour before rolling. Divide dough into 7 pieces. Roll each through a pasta machine twice per setting, to about #6 (thin and translucent). Lay lightly ﬂoured sheets aside for assembly.

Dollops of ricotta mixture

Mozzarella

Parmesan

Repeat until all pasta is used, ﬁnishing with béchamel and a generous shower of Parmesan on top.

Bake 40–50 min, until bubbling and golden. Broil brieﬂy for deeper color if desired. Rest 20 min before serving.

NAT LEVIN

Local Foods Mohawk Valley

NAT LEVIN

Local Foods Mohawk Valley

Gratitude in Motion

By Lisa Briggs

The weeks leading up to the holidays can feel like a sprint, with packed schedules, long to-do lists, and the constant pull of everything (and everyone) needing our time. But when life speeds up, our health and wellness shouldn’t fall to the sidelines. In fact, this is exactly when mindful movement and a gratitude-centered approach can change everything, not just how we move, but how we feel.

People often think wellness is about how hard you can push, but I believe it’s really about how well you can care for yourself. Gratitude and movement are two of the most powerful tools we have, especially when the season gets busy.

A Different Kind of Workout Season

Instead of chasing new records or stressing over calories, fall is the perfect time to shift focus from performance to purpose. Movement should be less about checking a box and more about grounding yourself, body, mind, and spirit. That’s the philosophy behind my approach at Fit Body Boot Camp, where high-energy sessions are designed not just to build strength but to reset your mindset.

Even a 30-minute workout can become a gratitude practice. I often encourage clients to use that time to reflect on what their bodies are capable of, how far they’ve come, or even the people who show up to support them. When you move with intention, the experience transforms from a task into a form of self-care.

Create Rituals That Restore You

Wellness this season isn’t about overhauling your life, it’s about creating small rituals that keep you centered. Maybe it’s a short gratitude journal entry before bed, or a five-minute stretch and breathwork session before your morning coffee. At Fit Body Boot Camp, I often encourage clients to pair their weekly strength ses-

“People often think wellness is about how hard you can push, but I believe it’s really about how well you can care for yourself. ”

—Lisa Briggs, Owner, Fit Body Boot Camp

sions with restorative practices, like our Sunday yoga class. The 45-minute session is open to the public every week at 8:30 a.m., and it’s one of my favorite ways to slow down and reconnect. Yoga isn’t about being perfect in a pose, it’s about being present. It’s where I see people truly release stress and remember what they’re thankful for.

Community, Connection, and Gratitude

One of the most overlooked benefits of movement is how deeply it connects us to ourselves and to others. Whether it’s showing up for a small group workout, joining a friend for a brisk walk, or volunteering together at a local event, shared activity builds a sense of belonging. At our studio, I see it every day: people lifting each other up, celebrating wins big

and small, and creating a support system that goes far beyond fitness. That’s the heart of gratitude, appreciating not just what we do, but who we do it with.

This season, instead of striving for perfection, choose presence. Slow down. Breathe deeper. Move with intention. And remember that gratitude isn’t something you practice once a year, it’s something you build into your body, your breath, and your life, one mindful movement at a time.

LISA BRIGGS is the owner of Fit Body Boot Camp in Whitesboro and Clinton & Contributing Editor, Mohawk Valley Living

MV Health

VAPING VS. SMOKING

What You’re Not Being Told

By Dr. Juleen Qandah

November is Lung Cancer Awareness

Month, and every year I see patients walk through the ER doors convinced that vaping is the “safe” alternative to cigarettes. The truth? It’s not that simple.

A Shocking Reality

Depending on the device and strength, a single vape pod can deliver as much nicotine as an entire pack of cigarettes, often without users realizing it. Most teens who pick up vaping have no idea that in just a few puffs, they’re exposing their brain to more nicotine than most adults ever did starting out with cigarettes. Nicotine is one of the most addictive substances on earth, more addictive than heroin in terms of how quickly it hijacks the brain’s reward pathways.

And here’s something even more disturbing: while the 2019 outbreak of vaping-related lung injuries (known as EVALI) made headlines for sending thousands, some as young as 17, to hospitals gasping for air, the story didn’t end there. Even today, we continue to see patients with severe lung inflammation, unexplained respiratory symptoms, and airway damage linked to vaping products. Many of them genuinely believed they were making a healthier choice, until they found themselves struggling for oxygen.

What Vaping Doesn’t Tell You

Vaping products don’t contain tar, but they do contain chemicals like formaldehyde (yes, the same chemical used to preserve cadavers) and diacetyl,

If you’re vaping because you think it’s harmless, you’re gambling with your lungs.

which is linked to “popcorn lung,” a scarring disease of the small airways that causes chronic cough and shortness of breath. And unlike cigarettes, vaping liquid comes in candy-like flavors that are tailor-made to hook kids.

On the flip side, we know the risks of smoking all too well: smoking causes 1 in 5 deaths in the U.S. every year, damages nearly every organ system, and remains the leading cause of preventable cancer. So yes, smoking is worse, but “less deadly” doesn’t mean safe.

The Myth of Quitting With Vapes

Many smokers tell me they started vaping to quit cigarettes. But here’s the catch: most become “dual users,” still smoking while also vaping, keeping nicotine addiction alive and kicking. Compare that to FDA-approved options such as patches, gum, lozenges, and medications that have decades of evidence proving they can double or even triple your chances of quitting successfully.

Secondhand Risk: Not Just Smoke

We don’t talk enough about the secondhand vapor problem. It may look harmless, but those tiny particles contain nicotine and toxins that can irritate the lungs, trigger asthma attacks, and affect heart health. For children, there is no safe level of exposure.

My Message as a Physician

If you’re vaping because you think it’s harmless, you’re gambling with your lungs. If you’re smoking, you already know the odds. Either way, the best decision is to break free altogether. Talk to your doctor, use the tools we know work, and don’t wait until you are sitting in an ER struggling to breathe. Quitting is hard, but I promise you: every cigarette you don’t smoke, and every vape you don’t inhale, gives your body a chance to heal. And that’s a fact worth sharing this November.

Fall on the Farm

As the fields turn golden and the air cools, farmers across the Mohawk Valley begin to shift gears. Fall marks both an ending and a beginning — a time to gather the rewards of a long season and prepare the land for rest. For local farmer and advocate Ben Simons, it’s also a moment to pause, take stock, and appreciate the rhythm of life on the farm.

By Ben Simons

For me and most farmers, fall is a time to reap the rewards of the hard work and dedication that come with the spring months. Additionally, summer inputs, costs, and maintenance are necessary to keep the crops productive. We often ask ourselves if we’re making the most of our opportunities. What practices should we continue using, and what could we improve for next year? Fall is also a time for being outside, enjoying the mild days that bridge summer and winter. It’s one of my favorite times of year.

to its high starch content and tough kernel, which makes it unpalatable for humans.

Soybeans have been harvested and stored/sold to mills for most of the year. But corn is in full swing for most, depending on the environment and if the area has received a ‘killing frost,’ now, this doesn’t mean it’s killing the crops, instead killing the plants to make it so our equipment can better manage the crops for harvesting abilities. However, we are constantly at the mercy of Mother Nature, no matter the time of year. However, in the fall, it becomes a bigger issue because combining corn or soybeans with three feet of snow on & in between the rows is a real hassle. Although it’s possible, it’s definitely a challenging task. The same goes for the amount of rain we receive. Having too much rain means the crops have to be dried more, which in part uses a lot more propane and electricity, and we all know those inputs aren’t cheap! The corn in this area is used mainly for cattle, swine, and poultry consumption due

To put it bluntly, the crops are running a bit behind schedule. We had a good start at the beginning of spring, but then it started raining nonstop. I know many farmers in the area struggled to sow their seeds. And by the time they were able to get back into the fields to plant, it became apparent that it may not have happened at all, but some farmers did get it in the ground by ‘mudding it in’; it isn’t the best practice, but it was a necessity. After the crops were planted, the weather became ridiculously dry, stunting their growth and affecting some of the yields. The crops have matured, and the weather is in our favor, so I have faith and high hopes that it will be a good harvest season. But we will see it when it happens.

Preparing for winter is no different from any other timeframe; relying on Mother Nature to determine when to do things and when to hold off on certain tasks is just as unpredictable as the rest of the year. For most, once their equipment has been cleaned of crop debris, it’s been put away snugly in their pole barns and winterized if needed. So, that way, the cold weather of winter doesn’t destroy the necessary components of our equipment. Preparing our fuel needs by cutting the diesel fuel in our tractors and small diesel engines is also

a necessity. We usually cut the diesel with kerosene at a 50/50 rate, because if we don’t do this before the cold weather, it can affect how the motors operate and cause the diesel to gel, preventing it from flowing. We are also taking inventory on crops like hay, corn, and soybeans to assess their marketability and making necessary deals where it is appropriate. Checking on livestock, rounding them up, and housing them in the barns ensures they’re all vaccinated against any sickness throughout the winter.

During the winter months, farmers can use any free time to work on equipment repairs and plan their crop rotations for the coming year. They also evaluate the crops and yields to determine which variety of seed performs best on different types of ground. The land has various

kinds of consistencies, so not one seed works for everyone; that’s why multiple brands sell a multitude of different traits on their seed. They also calculate inputs & costs to determine if they have reached the ‘breakeven’ point. Paying off debts and making the crops pay for themselves, covering seeds, fertilizers, and other input costs ahead of the coming spring, helps the salesmen secure better deals for the farmers.

I thank God for all that He has provided to us, making my advocacy a genuinely worthwhile experience. I do this for the community I farm and love, because many people in it are so far removed from agriculture that they’ll never have these experiences in their lives. By talking to a farmer, one can gain insight into why farmers do what they do.

Ben Simons

Looking for

Dawn

Huge Storewide Retirement Sale

MV Road Trip

Road Trip

Drive of the Month MV Road Trip

Drive of the Month

Colder weather has arrived and with that, all things cozy in Central New York! I know the transition from warm weather to cold is a tough one, but bear with me as there are still a lot of cool things to do around here!

I am thankful to live in a place that gives us four seasons, and I love exploring different sights and stops nearby. As my kids are getting a little older, I’m really embracing a different pace, where not everything has to be rushed and hurried.

As I was recently driving home from working in Johnstown to get the kids off the school bus, I had some extra time. I was heading on my normal route to jump onto the thruway, when I saw a few signs for “Apple Cider Donuts,” and arrows pointing me 2 miles away. I couldn’t resist, and was so glad I made this pitstop to Sand Flats Orchard. Not only was the drive beautiful, with actual rolling hills and a bridge over the slow rolling Cayadutta Creek, but the Orchard was adorable. They have Apples, gifts, and homemade apple cider donuts. I picked up a fresh batch to bring home, which we devoured instantly.

I’ve always loved the modern glass facade that can be seen from I-90. We viewed the “Through the Lens” exhibit by local photographer, John Bayne Young, and all of the Beech Nut history! While in the area, we had to take a detour to Sharon Springs to stock up on some Beekman 1802 product. If you haven’t been, the shop mimics their mission statement of spreading kindness: it’s bright, inviting, and sunny. For lunch, we went to the Black Cat Cafe, mainly because I loved the name. Bonus: they have their own cookbooks!

Winding down this month, I couldn’t end without an evening out with my husband. While we didn’t do this in November, a little while back, we went on the Adirondack Beer & Wine Train. A 10/10 in my book of date night ideas! It was a relaxing evening as we rolled along to Remsen Depot, listening to live music, enjoying the views and great weather. Did you know, they offer all different types of train rides? From Adirondack tours, Halloween family rides, and a “Cabin Fever” ride in the spring, it’s a great way to get out of the house.

My drive home took me along the beautiful Route 5 West through Sprakers and Canajoharie following the Mohawk River. I had a hard time not staring at the views as the leaves still had some color, and I normally take the Thruway home so I was trying to soak it all in!

CARLY STEET MATHIAS

After our train ride, we walked next door to grab dinner at the Tailor and the Cook, where you can typically find us in front of the fireplace most fall and winter weekends! Then capped the night off with a drink, and ok, the Bavarian Pretzel at Baggs Square Brewing. Since we both share German heritage, this is one of our favorite spots to go for some authentic fare!

While on my way, I took some time in Canajoharie to find the Arkell Museum on Erie Boulevard. I’ve never had a chance to visit.

On a separate trip, my mom and I had a girls day and went to the Arkell to finally check it out!

After our train ride, we walked door to grab dinner at the Tailor the Cook, where you can typically find us in front of the fireplace fall and winter weekends! Then capped the night off with a and ok, the Bavarian Pretzel Square Brewing. Since we both German heritage, this is one favorite spots to go for some authentic fare!

I hope this Drive of the Month takes you somewhere new, inspires you to take some time to take the less traveled path, and be thankful for all the hidden treasures you find along the way in the Mohawk Valley.

While on my way, I took some time in Canajoharie to find the Arkell Museum on Erie Boulevard. I’ve never had a chance to visit.

On a separate trip, my mom and I had a girls day and went to the Arkell

Main Street Utica on a Fall Evening

Cayadutta Creek, Fonda, NY

CARLY STEET MATHIAS

Main Street Utica on a Fall Evening

Cayadutta Creek, Fonda, NY

CARLY STEET MATHIAS

Main Street Utica on a Fall Evening

Cayadutta Creek, Fonda, NY

Main Street Utica on a Fall Evening

Cayadutta Creek, Fonda, NY

CARLY STEET MATHIAS

treasures that tell a story, from heirloom furniture and vintage ornaments to handcrafted décor and timeless jewelry. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect gift or simply browsing for inspiration, these local favorites make holiday shopping feel like an adventure.

Victorian Rose Vintage, Antiques, Crafts & Collectibles

3371 Maple Ave, Bouckville, NY 13310 315-893-1786 • victorianrosevintage.com

Mohawk Valley Community Market Antiques & More

142 North Main St, Herkimer, NY 13350 315-219-9195 • mohawkvalleycommunitymarket.com

The Potting Shed Antiques 52 Oriskany Blvd, Whitesboro, NY 13492 315-736-5214 • thepottingshedantiques.com

The Queen’s Closet & Attic Addicts 22 Oriskany Blvd, Yorkville, NY 315-736-9160 • facebook.com/tqcaa

Butternut Barn Primitives

1185 Allen Lake Road (County Highway 27), Richfield Springs, NY 13439 315-858-0964 • butternutbarnprimitives.com

Suggested Route

Start your day in Bouckville and make your way east through Herkimer, Whitesboro, and Yorkville before ending in Richfield Springs for a perfect antique-filled outing.

Route: Bouckville ➜ Herkimer ➜ Whitesboro ➜ Yorkville ➜ Richfield Springs

Approx. total driving time: 1 hour, 45 minutes (without extended browsing stops)

MV Arts

NOVEMBER ART HAPPENINGS

Munson After Dark: Day of the Dead Celebration

When: Saturday, November 1, 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM

Where: Munson Museum of Art Root Court, 310 Genesee St, Utica Cost: Members $15; Non-Members $20

Ongoing Independent Pottery Program

When: Every Monday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Where: View Arts Center, 3273 NY-28, Old Forge

Drawn in Glass: Glass Sculptures by Tina Betz

When: November 7th-29th, Thursdays and Saturdays from 12 PM – 2 PM Where: The Other Side, 2011 Genesee St, Utica For more information: call (315) 395-5235

Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair

When: Saturday, November 8, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Where: Arkell Museum, 2 Erie Blvd, Canajoharie

The Met: Live in HD La Bohème (Puccini)

When: Saturday, November 8, 1:00 PM

Where: Munson Museum of Art, Sinnott Family – Bank of Utica Auditorium, 310 Genesee St, Utica

Jupiter String Quartet

When: Friday, November 14, 7:30 PM

Where: Wellin Hall Schambach Center, Hamilton College, 198 College Rd, Clinton

Utica Creative Reuse:

Knitting 101

When: Monday, November 17, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Where: 734 Columbia St, Utica

In May 2025, Utica Creative Reuse opened up in Utica, N.Y. This new storefront is a place where reusable materials are recycled and used for art education. By using materials that would otherwise be thrown to waste, Creative Reuse creates art products that can be brought back into the community. Utica Creative Reuse is a place where the community can go to learn and create art, or give back by recycling old materials. In November, the new store will be hosting Knitting 101, and more events to come as time passes.

Christmas on Main Street: Holiday Ornament Painting

When: Friday & Saturday, November 28 & 29, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Where: Old Forge’s annual Christmas on Main Street –View Arts Center, 3273 State Route 28, Old Forge

Independent Pottery Program at View Arts Center

Day of the Dead Celebration at Munson

Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair at Arkell Museum

The Met: Live in HD at Munson

Drawn in Glass: Glass Sculptures by Tina Betz

Holiday Ornament Painting at View Arts Center

Celebrate the Holidays at MUNSON

Join the holiday magic at Munson with Victorian Yuletide: Fancy Goods—a joyful two-month celebration where history meets the holidays!

Victorian

Yuletide:

Fancy Goods

On view Nov. 11 through Jan. 4

Free admission

Explore the beautifully decorated rooms of Fountain Elms and discover how the Erie Canal shaped shopping and gift-giving in the Mohawk Valley.

Munson Holiday Open House

Thursday, Dec. 11 | 5 to 7 p.m.

• Horse-drawn Wagon Rides

• Holiday Cookies and Hot Chocolate

• Munson Art Market (noon to 7 p.m.)

Free and open to the public

Victorian Yuletide sponsor: Gail Kulaga

Giving Back

A Day to Remember

A Small Community with a Big Heart Raises Millions for its Local Nonprofits

By Carrie Byrne Putelo

What happens when a small but mighty community unites for one day with the goal of giving back? You get a recordbreaking, heartwarming event that leaves a lasting impact on everyone involved.

On September 19, the spirit of generosity soared as the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties and UpMobility Foundation hosted the fourth annual Mohawk Valley Gives, a highenergy online giving day that once again shattered records and all expectations. Over $6.5 million was raised for nonprofits across Herkimer, Oneida, and Otsego counties in Central New York, thanks to the incredible support of more than 8,100 donors worldwide.

Donations poured in from 42 states, including the

District of Columbia, and five countries, totaling an astonishing 14,100 individual donations, with contributions ranging from $5 to an incredible $1 million.

From early morning countdowns to late-night matching gift challenges, the day was full of excitement. Local businesses and media stations helped spread the word far and wide while social media lit up with stories of impact and direct calls for donations.

“We continue to be amazed by the community’s passion and growing support for Mohawk Valley Gives, it truly

Win Big with Save of the Day

Looking for a chance to drive away in a brand-new 2026 Chevy Corvette - or take home $75,000 in cash? Here’s your shot. The Save of the Day Foundation is hosting its biggest raffle ever, with only 2,000 tickets available at $100 each.

The winning ticket will be drawn January 31, 2026 during a Utica Comets home game, and every dollar raised goes directly to support the foundation’s work in our community.

How to Enter:

Tickets can be purchased at Comets games, or at participating locations including Davidson Chevrolet, The Tailor & The Cook, and Babe’s. You can also scan the QR code for more details and to buy online — and if you order through the QR code, your ticket will be mailed directly to you.

Don’t wait - with limited tickets and a prize this exciting, they won’t last long.

gets stronger every year, and we can feel it,” said Alicia Dicks, president/CEO of the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties. “Our nonprofit partners are doing impactful work that touches lives across the area, and this event gives people a meaningful way to give back to the causes they care about. Mohawk Valley Gives is a powerful celebration of local generosity, community involvement, and the vital role nonprofits play in making our region a better place for all.”

The funds raised will directly benefit over 360 nonprofits, supporting everything from

food insecurity and education to arts and healthcare.

One hundred percent of all donations go straight to the nonprofits that receive them. What started as a small grassroots campaign raising $630,000 in 2022 has taken off and become a true shining example of what is possible when a community shares a vision of a vibrant future and works toward it together. Since the event’s inception, over $14 million has been raised for the nonprofit sector in the Mohawk Valley.

Mohawk Valley Gives will return in September 2026. Learn more at givemv.org.