Issuu

SPECIAL FALL ARTS PREVIEW

M O H A W K VA L L E Y

LIVING SEPTEMBER 2026

The People. The Places. The Stories.

MEDITERRANEAN Food Tour

FAMILY FARMS

COMPLIMENTARY

Ready to Conquer

BACK TO BACK TO SCHOOL SCHOOL

IN STYLE WITH OUR FAMILY FRIENDLY SUV’S!

new volkswagen

Tiguan

2026 mazda

cx-50

2026 ford

bronco sport

PLUS OVER 500 USED VEHICLES & FIRST TIME

STEETPONTEAUTOGROUP.COM

all new redesigned 2026 toyota

rav4

2026 Lincoln

Nautilus

2026 Nissan

Rogue

2026 chevy

Trax

BUYERS PROGRAM AT UNITED AUTO SALES!

MOHAWK VALLEY

LIVING

SEPTEMBER 2026 ISSUE 154 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & OWNER CARRIE BYRNE PUTELO CREATIVE DIRECTOR COLLEEN INGERTO DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT & STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS LAURYN JOHNS DIRECTOR OF BRAND MARKETING & INTEGRATED MEDIA KAYLA ANDERSON MEDICAL & HEALTH EDITOR DR. JULEEN QANDAH STYLE EDITOR AT LARGE JOANNE DONARUMA WADE FITNESS EDITOR LISA BRIGGS DESIGNER SARAH BURNS CONTRIBUTING EDITORS JENNIFER BAILEY SARAH FOSTER CALERO KAILA CHAMPOUX ROANN DESTITO LIBBY LEMIRE NAT LEVIN HEATHER LOVELAND-BUTTON BEN SIMONS TOM STARR MARKETING & CONTENT ASSOCIATE BROOKE FRAWLEY COVER PHOTOGRAPHY JESSICA ROTKIEWICZ, JMR VISUALS JMRVISUALS.COM CONTACT US: advertising@mohawkvalleyliving.com press@mohawkvalleyliving.com 315-272-7437

Facebook

Instagram

Editor’s Letter Dear Readers, September has always felt like a beginning. Even as the calendar hints at summer's end, September arrives with fresh notebooks, familiar routines, and the quiet excitement of starting something new. It's a season of harvest, but it's also a season of possibility. This month, our cover celebrates some of the growers and producers who nourish the Mohawk Valley. Their work reminds us that growth doesn't happen overnight. It takes patience, care, resilience, and faith in what's to come. Those same qualities seem to find their way into every corner of life this time of year. Back-to-school season always makes me nostalgic. I still remember laying out first-day outfits, packing lunches, snapping those annual photos on the front steps, and walking Luke and Lila to their elementary school before making the drive into the city for work. I don't miss the commute, but I miss those moments that felt so ordinary at the time and now mean everything. It's funny how the days can feel so long while the years pass in the blink of an eye. Today, the little hands I once held on the walk to school belong to confident young adults finding their own paths. Luke is beginning his first year of medical school, and Lila is entering the final year of her master's program in occupational therapy. This time next year, she'll be caring for people right here in the community that helped shape her. Watching them grow has been the greatest privilege of my life, and it reminds me that every season prepares us for the next one. As I look around the Mohawk Valley, I see that same story unfolding everywhere. It's in the farmers harvesting the fruits of months of hard work. It's in the artists preparing for a new season of performances, exhibitions, and creativity. It's in local shops welcoming the change of

Carrie Byrne Putelo Editor-in-Chief & Owner season with fresh style and inspiration. It's around our tables as Mediterranean flavors remind us that food has a remarkable way of bringing people together, no matter where we call home. Growth looks different for each of us. Sometimes it's measured in acres planted or businesses built. Sometimes it's found in classrooms, studios, kitchens, or the quiet realization that the children who once needed us every step of the way are ready to make their own mark on the world. Wherever this September finds you, I hope you'll take a moment to appreciate how far you've come, embrace what's ahead, and celebrate the people who continue to help our region grow. Happy September.

Carrie

Wherever this September finds you, I hope you'll take a moment to appreciate how far you've come, embrace what's ahead, and celebrate the people who continue to help our region grow.

4 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

Alicia Alicia Brockway Brockway

VP, Sr. Sr. Business Business VP, Banking Officer Officer Banking

Brian Brian Bonura Bonura

Regional Manager Manager Regional Mohawk Valley Valley Mohawk

KevinM. M. Kevin Gaglione Gaglione

SVP,Director Director&& SVP, CRE Team Leader CRE Team Leader

Meet our Local Team.

We know businesses here in the Mohawk Valley Valley deserve a banking team that knows the community, community, because we’re part of it. Whether you’re starting starting aa business, growing, or planning for the future, future, our our local experts are here to guide you every step step of of the way. Visit us online or at your nearest branch. branch.

John John Hobika Hobika

VP,Relationship Relationship VP, Manager Manager

Marianne Marianne Stowell Stowell

SVP,Commercial Commercial SVP, BankingOfficer Officer Banking

Frank Frank Tamburrino Tamburrino David David Wood Wood

SVP,Cash Cash SVP, Management Management Sales Sales Manager Manager

Commercial Commercial Portfolio Portfolio Manager Manager

BeaconBank.com BeaconBank.com 8/26 8/26

Member FDIC FDIC Member Equal Housing Housing Lender Lender Equal

MOHAWK VALLEY

LIVING

IN THIS ISSUE 04

Letter From The Editor

UP FRONT 08

September Musts

In The Know

MV Spotlight

MV’s Best

MV Roots

MV Entertainment

A View from the Bench

LIFESTYLE & WELLNESS

46 FEATURES 46 55

73 6 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

Buzzworthy

See what’s happening this month

MV Eats

The Mediterranean Food Tour

Rooted Here

Family Farms of the Mohawk Valley

Fall Arts Preview

MV Style

MV Fit

MV Harvest

MV At Home

MV Health

MV Antiques

CAPTURED 94

A Look Back

Giving Back

Buzz worthy

Happenings in the Mohawk Valley in September

SEPT

12 -13

Copper City Brewing Oktoberfest

St. George Mediterranean Festival

SEPT

18,20,25,27,29

Martina McBride

Gigs on the Green Concert Series

The Fall Gateway Trains

Running strong since 2017, this is a classic CCBC event. Enjoy Marzen, German eats from Rocking German Cuisine food truck, special barrel glassware, and a LOT of polka from the amazing Fritz’s Polka Band Location: Bellamy Harbor + Utica Harbor Point

Country music superstar Martina McBride brings her powerful vocals and chart-topping hits to Turning Stone Resort Casino for an unforgettable evening featuring fan favorites spanning her legendary career. Location: Turning Stone

SEPT

18-19, 25-26 Saranac’s Oktoberfest

Three weekends of Oktoberfest fun at the Biergarten! This annual family-friendly event is packed with yodeling, trivia, German dancing, stein hoisting and much more. Plus, all of your favorite German foods & beers (& plenty of NA options!). Location: Saranac Brewery 8 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

Taste the flavors and traditions of the Mediterranean at this annual festival featuring authentic cuisine, live entertainment, local vendors, raffles, and family-friendly fun. Admission is free. Location: St. George Church, New Hartford

Gather on Griffo Green for a free evening of live music from Last Left, local food vendors, craft beverages, family activities, and yard games during Rome's popular outdoor concert series. Location: Griffo Green, City Hall, Rome

SEPT

Fairchild Folk Festival 2026

The perfect way to head into fall! Enjoy local music at the Fairchild Folk Festival with an afternoon of live performances, food trucks, and family-friendly fun. Bring a lawn chair and relax at one of our area’s favorite folk music traditions. . Location: Remsen

SEPT

Enjoy the beauty of Adirondack fall foliage aboard the Fall Gateway Train. This scenic round-trip rail excursion from Utica to Thendara winds through colorful forests, rivers, and breathtaking mountain views. Location: Union Station, Utica

SEPT

19-20

Spirit of Rome 2026

Simple Farms Sunflower Festival

Sample local food, craft beer, wine, cider, seltzers, and more at Spirit of Rome, a tasting event set against the scenic backdrop of Woods Valley Ski Area. Enjoy a buffet dinner, live entertainment, outdoor games, and regional flavors. Location: Woods Valley Ski Area, Westernville

Celebrate sunflower season with a weekend of family fun featuring blooming sunflower fields, free hayrides, a sunflower maze, live music, craft vendors, games, delicious food, and U-pick sunflowers to take home. Location: Simple Farms, Remsen

Buzzworthy

Sarah’s Spotlight: Event of the Month SEPT

Canal Cities Classic + Utica History & Heritage Festival Bellamy Harbor + Utica Harbor Point

I’m so excited for this dual event to celebrate all things Erie Canal and local history! The inaugural Canal Cities Classic Regatta and Utica History & Heritage Festival highlight the Erie Canal through recreation, history & entertainment. As the CCC paddle race finishes at Harbor Point, it’s followed by a festival featuring live music, food trucks, exhibits, and family fun. SARAH FOSTER CALERO is President, Oneida County Tourism & Contributing Editor, Mohawk Valley Living

SEPT

Boonville Potato Festival

Flower Hill Farm’s Fall Festival

2026 Oneida Lake Chicken Wing Run

Awesome Country Farmhouse, Boonville Description: Celebrate Boonville's agricultural heritage at the Potato Festival with potato-inspired foods, local vendors, live music, family activities, a petting zoo, contests, crafts, and fun for all ages. Location: Awesome Country Farmhouse, Boonville

Welcome fall at Flower Hill Farm with local artisans, food trucks, fresh flowers, pumpkins, mums, seasonal décor, and a relaxing day surrounded by the beauty of the countryside. Location: 104 Boon St., Boonville

Watch hundreds of high-performance boats gather on Oneida Lake during this exciting annual charity event. The weekend also features live entertainment, food, and family-friendly festivities in Sylvan Beach. Location: Sylvan Beach

For local events and more, visit

oneidacountytourism.com

SEPT

26-27 Remsen Barn Festival of the Arts

Stroll through historic downtown Remsen during this beloved arts festival featuring more than 225 artists and crafters, live entertainment, local food vendors, and a weekend of creativity and smalltown charm. Location: Remsen

SEPT

Facebook

Instagram

52nd Annual Falling Leaves Road Race Join the Utica Roadrunners for this 52nd annual fall tradition featuring a 5K, scenic 14K through Roscoe Conkling Park, a kids' run, and a festive post-race celebration in downtown Utica. Location: Utica

MohawkValleyLiving.com | 9

Things to Do

September Musts

By Lauryn Johns

Photo: Cherry Valley Kite Festival Facebook

WELCOME THE ARRIVAL OF FALL

WATCH THE SKIES COME ALIVE

RIDE THE ADIRONDACKS BY RAIL

Visit the Sharon Springs Harvest Festival, where the historic village comes alive with local vendors, fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and seasonal flavors. Spend the day enjoying live music, delicious food trucks, hands-on workshops, and family-friendly activities while exploring one of the region's most charming destinations. It's the perfect way to celebrate the season, support local farmers and artisans, and make lasting autumn memories.

Thousands of colorful kites will fill the skies above historic Cherry Valley during the Kite Festival, a beloved local tradition. From aweinspiring aerial performances and giant display kites to hands-on kite building, family activities, local vendors, and breathtaking countryside views, this one-of-a-kind event promises a weekend of fun for all ages. Don't forget to bring your own kite and join the celebration.

Experience the beauty of the Adirondacks aboard the Adirondack Railroad. Whether you choose a one-hour scenic excursion or the full-day Adirondack Mountaineer adventure to Tupper Lake, you'll travel through forests, over rivers, and past breathtaking mountain scenery. It's a relaxing and unforgettable way to experience the region, especially as the fall colors begin to shine.

Sharon Springs Harvest Festival

Cherry Valley Kite Festival

The Adirondack Railroad

September 19th & 20th, 10:00am - 5:00pm 199 Main Street in Sharon Springs facebook.com/sharonspringsharvestfest

September 25th & 26th 212 Campbell Road in Cherry Valley cvartworks.org/2026-kite-festival

2568 State Route 28 in Thendara adirondackrr.com/thendara

CELEBRATE LIFE ON THE FARM

UNLEASH SOME FOUR-LEGGED FUN

SAY CHEESE!

Spend a day at Hu-Hill Farm during Montgomery County's annual Sundae on the Farm celebration. Tour a working dairy farm, enjoy agricultural demonstrations, family-friendly activities, and learn where your food comes from— all while celebrating 100 years of Hu-Hill Farm. Top it all off with a free ice cream sundae, courtesy of Stewart's Shops.

Grab your leash and head to Woofstock, a tailwagging celebration packed with live music, delicious food, local vendors, and plenty of four-legged fun. Whether you're bringing your pup or simply love dogs, this community favorite offers a day full of great vibes while supporting a wonderful cause. It's one event both humans and their furry friends won't want to miss.

Calling all cheese lovers! Sample more than 120 varieties of New York-made cheese while exploring artisan foods, craft beverages, live music, and local vendors at the Little Falls Cheese Festival. Held in the historic Erie Canal city once known as a global cheese capital, this beloved event is a delicious celebration of New York's rich dairy heritage.

Sundae on the Farm Sunday, September 20th, 10:30am - 4:00pm 232 Lighthall Road in Fort Plain sundaeonthefarm.com 10 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

FCRSCPA’s 14th Annual WOOFstock

Little Falls Cheese Festival

Saturday, September 12th, 1:00pm - 6:00pm 114 East Shore Road West in Caroga Lake facebook.com/events/2194480291373094

Saturday, October 3rd, 10:00am - 5:00pm Main Street in Little Falls littlefallscheesefestival.com

In the Know

$100,000 Miracle Drawing is Celebrating 30 Years! In 1996, an idea was born to help make a difference to children’s healthcare in the Mohawk Valley. Now, 30 years later, the annual Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) $100,000 Miracle Drawing has raised more than $10 million to help transform children’s healthcare throughout Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS). Every ticket purchased over the years represents a shared commitment by our community to the children and families we care for. “The impact of the Miracle Drawing is everywhere you look at MVHS,” says Debbie Wainwright, CMN Program Director. “Thanks to our community’s support, one $100 ticket at a time, we are able to provide life-saving care, innovative treatments and vital equipment to those in need. Together we’re not just raising funds, we’re raising hope, possibilities and futures for all children and it’s so rewarding to be a part of it.” One child who has a bright future thanks to the community’s support of the $100,000 Miracle Drawing is local 2026 CMN Champion, Christian, from Utica. When Christian’s mom developed preeclampsia at 33 ½ weeks into her pregnancy, her life was saved when he was delivered by emergency C-section. Weighing just 3 pounds, 9 ounces, Christian received oxygen and was immediately intubated, saving his life. During his 22 days in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), he continued to receive lifesaving care by a full team of specialists. Christian was initially treated for jaundice and 12 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

required a feeding tube. He worked with physical therapists who helped to promote calming and self-regulatory behaviors using positioning equipment such as Dandle wraps. Occupational Therapists helped him to develop sensory and motor skills and Speech Therapists helped with feeding and swallowing. Christian's parents were cautioned that he may need a feeding tube for a while and there may be a delay in reaching some milestones. However, not only did Christian grow without the need for a feeding tube, but since leaving the NICU, he has met or exceeded every milestone! Today, he is a happy, healthy and very active 3-year-old who enjoys gymnastics and sports – especially Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills. “Stories like Christian’s are what makes my job so meaningful and fulfilling,” Wainwright notes. “Year after year, while we are out in the community selling tickets we see so many of the same people supporting us. I’m constantly inspired by so many of them who share their own miracle story. What’s amazing is that this whole project is about chance – a chance to win $100,000, but it’s also about a chance to change a child’s life. Even if you don’t win the big prize you will definitely achieve the second.” $100,000 Miracle Drawing tickets are still on sale and the grand prize drawing will be held on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 6 p.m. in the Sammon Family Birthing Center lobby at Wynn Hospital.

TICKET LOCATIONS Purchase your tickets with cash, check or credit card* AmeriCU Credit Union Locations Herkimer: EFK Plaza, 326 E. State Street; North Utica: 401 Herkimer Road; Yorkville: 4957 Commercial Drive Chanatry's Hometown Market 485 French Road, Utica* Countryside Stove & Chimney 9509 River Road, Marcy Curtis Lumber 8448 Seneca Turnpike, New Hartford GPO Federal Credit Union Locations Barneveld: 8585 State Route 28; Dolgeville: 39 North Main Street; Downtown Utica: 301 Bleecker Street Ilion: 3 Central Plaza; New Hartford: 4311 Middle Settlement Road; South Utica: 2711 Genesee Street Mohawk Valley Federal Credit Union 9212 River Road, Marcy Mohawk Valley Health System Foundation Office: 4th Floor; Faxton Campus: 1676 Sunset Avenue, Utica* Remington Federal Credit Union 39 Central Plaza, Ilion Special Metals Federal Credit Union 4340 Middle Settlement Road, New Hartford Utica Gas & Electric Federal Credit Union 215 Old Campion Road, New Hartford *These locations accept credit cards.

Request Your Ticket Online! Scan the QR Code at left with your phone’s camera to submit your request for a ticket. A member of the MVHS Foundation Office will contact you for more information.

FREE PROSTATE CANCER SCREENING EVENT Upstate Urology at MVHS – 1675 Bennett Street, Utica September 14, 24 and 28 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. | 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

September 23 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Men age 45 to 75 – don’t wait. Get screened. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death in American men. Early diagnosis of prostate cancer significantly increases the likelihood of survival. Take this important step for your health and schedule an appointment today by visiting mvhealthsystem.org/prostate-screening-form. or scan the QR code. 315–624–4600

In the Know

By Carrie Byrne Putelo By Carrie Byrne Putelo

Planning a Kitchen Planning Kitchenor orBath BathProject? Project?Start StartHere. Here. OneidaFloor Floor is is bringing bringing area forfor a fall evening filled with Oneida area design designand andhome homeprofessionals professionalstogether together a fall evening filled with ideas,answers answers and and inspiration inspiration for ideas, foryour yournext nextproject. project. you’vebeen beenthinking thinking about about updating updating your IfIfyou’ve your kitchen or bathroom, Oneida Floor is giving kitchen or bathroom, Oneida Floor is giving you you goodreason reasontotostart start asking asking those those questions. a agood questions. On Thursday, September 10, from 4 to 7:30 On Thursday, September 10, from 4 to 7:30 p.m., the family-run Utica business will host a p.m., the family-run Utica business will host a special kitchen and bath design evening, special kitchen and bath design evening, bringing together area professionals who can bringing together areafrom professionals who can help with everything tile and flooring to help with everything from tile and flooring countertops, color, installation and design. to countertops, color, installation and design. Bring the photos you’ve saved on your phone, you’ve your phone, Bring the photos the project you’ve been saved puttingon off, or simply the you’ve off,toordo simply with anproject idea you’re notbeen quiteputting sure what what to doand with anyet. idea notisquite sure Theyou’re evening meant to be relaxed yet. The with evening meantdemonstrations to be relaxed and useful, food,is prizes, and useful, food, prizes, demonstrations and plentywith of time to look around and talk with plenty timework to look around and talk with peopleofwho on these projects every day. people who work on these projects every day. Joining the Oneida Floor team will be interior designer Alosio of team Uniquely Joining theLinda Oneida Floor willYours, be interior Sandro, Linda ownerAlosio of Mohawk Valley Granite, designer of Uniquely Yours, a regionalowner stone of and countertop fabricator, Sandro, Mohawk Valley Granite,and a Ryan D’Alessandro, owner of Summit Flooring, regional stone and countertop fabricator, and whoD’Alessandro, specializes in shower, bath and flooring Ryan owner of Summit Flooring, installation. who specializes in shower, bath and flooring installation. Having everyone together makes it easy to ask the questions that naturally comeitupeasy when Having everyone together makes to ask you’re working on a home. Does this tile work the questions that naturally come up when with that countertop? What flooring makes you’re working on a home. Does this tile work sense for a busy kitchen? How do you update with that countertop? What flooring makes an older home without losing the character you sense for a busy kitchen? How do you update love about it? an older home without losing the character you love it? Andabout you certainly don’t need to arrive with a complete renovation plan. Sometimes seeing And you certainly don’t to through arrive with a materials in person andneed talking an idea complete renovation plan. Sometimes seeing is the best place to begin. materials in person and talking through an idea is the best place to begin.

14 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

AALongtime LongtimeUtica UticaBusiness Business IfIfyou Floor before, youhaven’t haven’tbeen beeninside insideOneida Oneida Floor before, the event is also a nice opportunity to get to the event is also a nice opportunity to get to know a family business that has been part of know a family business that has been part of the area for decades. the area for decades. Located at 600 Rutger Street, just outside Located at 600 Rutger Street, just outside Utica’s Rutger Street Historic District, Oneida Utica’s Rutger Street Historic District, Floor is owned by Tim and Michelle LinckOneida of Floor is owned Tim and Michelle Linck of Sauquoit, whoseby connection to the business Sauquoit,awhose connection the business continues long tradition in thetoflooring and continues a long tradition in the flooring and tile trades. tile trades. Oneida Floor has been in business alongside its alongside Oneida Floor has been sister company, Dick Tile in & business Marble, since the its sister company, Tile &tile Marble, since the 1960s. Dick Tile &Dick Marble’s and terrazzo 1960s. Tile &inMarble’s tile and terrazzo work canDick be found schools and hospitals work can be found schools and hospitals throughout New YorkinState, bringing generations experience in the trade to the throughoutofNew York State, bringing family business. generations of experience in the trade to the family business. Today, the Oneida Floor showroom offers a thoughtfully selectedFloor mix of porcelain offers and a Today, the Oneida showroom ceramic tile, luxury vinylmix tile,ofhardwood thoughtfully selected porcelainand and carpet. offervinyl installation services,and ceramicThey tile,also luxury tile, hardwood project andinstallation interior design help, carpet.management They also offer services, and theirmanagement experienced team can helpdesign help, project and interior homeowners work through thecan inevitable and their experienced team help questions that come up once a project begins. homeowners work through the inevitable questions comebusiness up oncehave a project begins. Years in thethat flooring also left them with a collection of fun vintage tile finds. Years in the flooring business have also left If you love old patterns, interesting colors or them with a collection fundon’t vintage simply finding somethingofyou see tile finds. If you love old patterns, interesting colors everywhere else, it’s worth asking to take a or simply you don’tolder see look. In finding an area something filled with beautiful everywhere else, it’s askingpiece to take homes, sometimes thatworth unexpected is a look. In an area filled with beautiful older exactly what a room needs. homes, sometimes that unexpected piece is exactly what a room needs.

Oneida Floor alsoalso carries supplies for people in in Oneida Floor carries supplies for people thethe trades, including quarry tile, VCT, wall base, trades, including quarry tile, VCT, wall base, adhesives, mortars andand tools. adhesives, mortars tools. Bring Your Questions Bring Your Questions Home projects can be exciting, but they can Home projects can be exciting, but they can also get complicated pretty quickly. There are a get complicated pretty There lot also of decisions between the firstquickly. idea and the are a lot of decisions between the first idea and the finished room, and sometimes the most helpful finished room, and sometimes the most helpful thing is simply being able to talk them through thing is simply talk them with someone whobeing knowsable theto materials andthrough with someone whowork knows the materials and understands how they together. understands how they work together. That’s really what this evening is about. That’s really what this evening is about. Come with a project. Come looking for Come with a project. Come looking inspiration. Bring your family and wanderfor inspiration. Bring your through the showroom. Askfamily aboutand thatwander bathroom wanted to Ask redoabout for years throughyou’ve the showroom. thator thebathroom kitchen floor you wanted can’t decide on. for years or you’ve to redo the kitchen floor you can’t decide on. You may leave with a plan, a new idea or just a better of where Yousense may leave withtoabegin. plan, a new idea or just a better sense of where to begin. And sometimes, that’s all you need to get a project And started. sometimes, that’s all you need to get a project started.

In the Know

Captain

Starr Wooden Makes History

I first met Starr Wooden nine years ago, not long after I moved to the Mohawk Valley, through my cousin, who also serves with the Utica Police Department.

By Carrie Byrne Putelo

“The secret of success is consistency of purpose.”

Last November, while putting together our first responders issue, I asked Starr to join us for the cover shoot. She – Captain Starr Wooden couldn’t make it because she was taking the captain’s exam. So when I heard she had been promoted, becoming the first woman to hold the rank in Utica Police and was working for Enterprise Rent-A-Car. Department history, that moment came right back to me. There has always been historical distrust of law enforcement, and I had a cousin who After 18 years with the department, Starr has reached worked in the profession. I spoke with him a milestone for both her career and the city she serves. about becoming a police officer and asked if he thought I asked Captain Wooden to reflect on the years that brought her here, the challenges along the way and what I could do the job. He supported me and told me to take as many tests as possible. this moment means to her now.

Where were you when you learned you would become captain? It’s funny because I was driving by myself to a doctor’s appointment in Cooperstown when my phone rang and I saw that it was Chief Williams. I was thinking to myself, “Oh, is this the deciding moment?” When I answered, the chief was apologetic because he did not want to give me the news over the phone, but I was not at work that day. The next thing he said was that he was proud to tell me I was being promoted to captain. I was immediately elated, but in shock at the same time. This was something I had been working hard toward, and the hard work paid off. I couldn’t thank the chief enough. When I hung up the phone, tears immediately came to my eyes. I was so happy I could hardly speak.

When, in April 2007, Thomas Lindsey was killed. Living in Utica, I saw that the murder of this officer was part of a disconnect between the police and the community, and that there was a lot of tension between the two. It was at that point I felt that maybe I could help bridge the gap. I eventually took and passed the Civil Service test for UPD and was hired in June 2008.

What advice has stayed with you? “The secret to success is consistency of purpose.” And, if you want change, then you have to be a part of change.

What has your career taught you about leadership?

There isn’t one particular moment in my career that has tested me. My entire career has tested me. Sometimes you have a particular plan for how you want to grow What has the response meant to you? through your career, and then you experience hurdles, like not getting a position you want or not getting The response I have been receiving has been totally supportive, and it means the world to me. Obviously, getting promoted when you know you have worked hard for it. promoted is a notch in your belt and selfsatisfying, but Then I had to think back to that one piece of advice: seeing the support from all around reinforces my belief in “The secret to success is consistency of purpose.” That the style of leadership I implement and how I have treated kept me motivated and pushed me to want to develop, everyone I have encountered throughout my career. mentor, and motivate others.

What does it mean being the first woman and first woman of color, to serve as captain? What it really means to me is that no matter where you come from, what your background is, or who you know, the opportunity to grow and make a difference is there, and that your merit and work ethic matter. I hope that by shattering that glass ceiling here, it opens up opportunities for other people like me who aspire to do great things in a profession here women make up only a small percentage of full-time law enforcement officers.

What first drew you to law enforcement? Back in 2006 and 2007, I was kind of in limbo. I had left my career in the engineering field as a product manager 16 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

It also taught me to stay true to my roots, my style of leadership, and what I wanted to achieve, which is building that bridge between the police and the community I grew up in, and helping make the department even greater than when I joined.

Beyond being the first, how do you hope your leadership will be remembered? I hope people will remember that in every leadership role I held, I never forgot where I came from. That I fostered building bridges between the department and our community in order to build better trust. I emphasized taking care of my people in-house: teaching them, mentoring them, motivating them, and developing them to be the future of our department.

CaptainWoodenisnotdefined simplybybeingthefirst. “Captain Starr Wooden’s promotion is both a historic moment for the Utica Police Department and a well-earned recognition of the leadership she has demonstrated throughout her career. As the first female Utica Police Officer to attain the rank of Captain, Starr has reached a milestone that I believe will have a lasting impact on our department, particularly for the women who serve today and those who may consider a career in law enforcement in the future. What makes this promotion especially meaningful, however, is that Captain Wooden is not defined Wooden is not defined simply by being the first. She has earned the respect of simply by beingthrough the firsther fellow officers her professionalism, work ethic, compassion, and ability to lead. She has also played an important role in strengthening the relationship between our department and the community through her leadership of our trust-building program, an initiative that has become a model for how law enforcement agencies can build meaningful relationships with the people they serve. Captain Wooden represents the type of leader we want developing the next generation of Utica Police Officers. I am extremely proud of what she has accomplished, proud of what this promotion represents for our department, and confident that she will continue to make a significant contribution to the Utica Police Department and the City of Utica in her new role.”

Mark Williams,Williams, Chief of Police Utica Police Department

Utica Comets Ticket Packages

6 Game Pack $140 ($23 PER GAME)

October 10

November 25

December 27

January 23

March 7

April 10

OPENING NIGHT

SOCK TOSS NIGHT

THANKSGIVING EVE STAR WARS NIGHT SPECIALTY JERSEY

WIZARDING NIGHT

FAN APPRECIATION NIGHT

12 Game Pack $285 ($23 PER GAME)

PICK FROM 20 OF OUR BEST GAMES THROUGHOUT THE SEASON!

UTICACOMETS.COM/PACK

In the Know

EveryLabel LabelTells TellsaaStory Story Every Turning personal experience into purposeful action.

Turning personal experience into purposeful action. By Lauryn Johns For most of us, grabbing a snack or For most of us, a snack or we sitting down forgrabbing dinner is something sitting down twice for dinner is For something we rarely think about. Devin Sailer, rarely think native twice about. Forlived Devinwith Sailer, an Oneonta who has 31 an Oneonta native who has lived with 31 life-threatening anaphylactic allergies life-threatening anaphylactic allergies since infancy, every ingredient has to be since infancy, has to be checked, everyevery mealingredient carefully planned checked, meal carefully planned and everyevery restaurant visit begins with and every restaurant begins questions most of us visit never have with to ask. questions most of usthe never have to ask. “For a lot of people, task seems “For a lot of people, the task seems insurmountable,” Sailer says. “But for insurmountable,” Sailer me, it’s just normal life.”says. “But for me, it’s just normal life.” Growing up, that “normal” looked Growing up, that “normal” looked different than it did for many of his different than it did for many of his classmates. After his family fought for classmates. After his family fought for his right to attend elementary school his right to attend elementary school because of the severity of his allergies, because of the severity of his allergies, lunchtime often meant sitting at a lunchtime often meant sitting at a separate allergy-free table or pulling a separate allergy-free table or pulling a desk away from everyone else. “It was an desk away from everyone else. “It was an isolating and and eye-opening eye-openingexperience,” experience,” isolating he says. “It was one of the defining he says. “It was one of the defining moments of of my my childhood.” childhood.” moments Those experiences experiencesmade madeSailer Sailermore more Those aware of the challenges facing others. He aware of the challenges facing others. He remembers classmates classmatesgoing goinghome homewith with remembers backpacks full full of offood foodfor forthe theweekend weekend backpacks and, through through his hismother’s mother’swork workin in and, women’s health, health,learning learningabout aboutfamilies families women’s staying in in domestic domesticviolence violenceshelters. shelters.ItIt staying raised aa question questionthat thatstayed stayedwith withhim: him: raised What happened happened to tochildren childrenwith withsevere severe What

By Lauryn Johns

food allergies when they suddenly found food allergiesin when they suddenly found themselves ashelter? That question themselves in ashelter? question became SafeToEat, theThat nonprofit Sailer SafeToEat, nonprofit Sailer became founded while stillthe in high school. Today, founded while stillpartners in high school. the organization with Today, the organization with businesses and partners food manufacturers to businesses and food manufacturers to provide allergen-safe food and provide allergen-safe food educational resources to and domestic educational resources to domestic violence shelters. Donations are sorted violence shelters. Donations are sorted into care packages and delivered directly into care packages and delivered directly to shelters. to shelters. Partnerships with companies including Partnerships including Vermont Nutwith Freecompanies Chocolates and Vermont Nut Free Chocolates and LesserEvil Snacks have helped expand LesserEvil Snacks have helped expand the organization’s reach, while support the organization’s reach, while support closer to home has allowed Sailer to closer to home has allowed Sailer to continue serving shelters throughout the continue serving shelters throughout the region. Because of the confidential region. Because of the confidential nature of those shelters, he’ll never know nature of those shelters, he’ll never know exactly how many people SafeToEat has exactly how many people SafeToEat has helped.“If “IfI simply I simplysay saySafeToEat SafeToEat has has helped. helped a certain number of people, it’s helped a certain number of people, it’s easytotoget getlost lostininthe thestatistic,” statistic,” says. easy hehe says. “Youforget forgetthese theseare arepeople people who are “You who are inin criticalsituations.” situations.” critical Thisyear, year,Sailer Sailerwas wasrecognized recognized This nationallyasasone oneofofJCI JCIUSA’s USA’s 2026 Ten 2026 Ten nationally OutstandingYoung YoungAmericans. Americans. For him, Outstanding For him, therecognition recognitiondoesn’t doesn’tchange change the the the mission.“Our “Ourgoals goalsremain remain the same,” mission. the same,” hehe says.“Give “Giveasasmuch muchfood foodtoto many says. asas many sheltersasaspossible.” possible.”AtAtjust just Sailer shelters 18,18, Sailer

has turned a challenge he has faced his has turned a challenge he has faced his entire into a way help others. entire lifelife into a way to to help others. When asked what hopes people take When asked what hehe hopes people take away from his story, his answer is simple. away from his story, his answer is simple. hope people realize special,” “I “I hope people realize I’mI’m notnot special,” he he says. “I’m just a person who decided says. “I’m just a person who decided to to act.” act.” Sometimes making a difference begins Sometimes making a difference begins with a problem know firsthand. Other with a problem wewe know firsthand. Other times, it begins with noticing what times, it begins with noticing what someone else is facing and deciding to do someone else is facing and deciding to do something about something about it. it.

theWaterway Waterway Following the

CanalCities CitiesClassic Classicinvites invitespaddlers paddlersto toexperience experiencethe theMohawk Mohawk Valley from a whole new perspective. The Canal Valley from a whole new perspective. before highways highwaysand andinterstates interstates Long before linked our our communities, communities,the theErie ErieCanal Canal linked carried carried people, people, goods goodsand andideas ideasthrough through the heart heart of of our our region. region.Nearly Nearly200 200years years later, that that same samewaterway waterwaycontinues continuesto to bring people people together, together,this thistime timefor for recreation, recreation, adventure adventureand andaanew new tradition tradition connecting connectingRome Romeand andUtica. Utica. On Saturday, Saturday, September September19, 19,the theinaugural inaugural Bank Bank of of Utica Utica Canal CanalCities CitiesClassic Classicwill will bring bring paddlers paddlers together togetherfor foran an18-mile 18-mile canoe canoe and and kayak kayakrace racefrom fromBellamy Bellamy Harbor Harbor in in Rome Rome to toUtica’s Utica’sHistoric Historic Harbor Harbor Point. Point. Following Followingthe theErie ErieCanal Canal before before joining joining the theMohawk MohawkRiver, River,the the course course offers offers aa new newway wayto toexperience experience one one of of the the Mohawk MohawkValley’s Valley’sdefining defining waterways. waterways.

friendly race, friendlyactivities. activities.After AfterSaturday’s Saturday’s race, the celebration continues at Harbor the celebration continues at Harbor Point and Pointwith withawards, awards,entertainment entertainment and food foodvendors. vendors.

The The weekend weekend begins beginsFriday Fridayevening eveningwith with re-race celebration at Bellamy re-race celebration at BellamyHarbor Harbor featuring featuring live live music, music,food foodand andfamilyfamily-

Whether from the Whethercompeting, competing,cheering cheering from the shoreline or simply discovering from aa shoreline or simply discovering from different appreciate the differentperspective perspectiveand and appreciate the

18 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

waterways that have shaped thethe waterways that have shaped Mohawk Valley for generations. Mohawk Valley for generations.

We’ve been here for generations, and we’ll be here for many more. EST. 1927

When you bank local, you Bank with Utica. bankofutica.com

In the Know

September: A Season of Discovery, Giving & Tradition By Carrie Byrne Putelo

Power Up the School Year with STEM Discovery at the NY Energy Zone As another school year begins, curiosity is back in the classroom. Questions are being asked, discoveries are waiting to be made, and students are beginning to imagine what their futures might hold. At the New York Power Authority’s NY Energy Zone in Utica, learning comes to life through hands-on experiences that make science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) engaging and memorable. The NY Energy Zone is New York State’s first and only learning center dedicated to electricity. Visitors can watch a 3D theater presentation, and experience more than 40 interactive science exhibits including building a micro grid, designing solar and wind installations, exploring the electric grid and even step into the role of a control room operator. Interactive exhibits connect the history of electricity with the technology shaping its future while offering a behind-the-scenes look at the important work of NYPA’s Frederick R. Clark Energy Control Center in Marcy. Best of all, admission to NY Energy Zone is free. Designed with education in mind, the facility also features a dedicated STEM learning space for school programs, youth organizations and community groups. Whether a field trip sparks an interest in engineering or a family visit inspires a new way of thinking about energy, each experience encourages visitors to explore, ask questions and see how electricity powers everyday life. Families can continue that learning exploration at the Wildlife Festival on Saturday, September 12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the NY Energy Zone and Utica Zoo, 35 Utica Zoo Way. The event offers another opportunity for visitors young and old to connect science, nature and discovery through a day of hands-on exploration. The event offers FREE admission to the Utica Zoo, courtesy of NYPA. Admission to the Energy Zone is always FREE and shuttle service will be available from the Parkway Recreation Center and MVCC for the event. As students head back to school this fall, the NY Energy Zone offers a place to experience STEM in a way that feels active, approachable and fun. It is where curiosity can lead to understanding and where the next generation of innovators can begin to see what is possible.

Mark your calendar for festivals, traditions and community happenings throughout September Sept. 11-13 | Fall Festival of Quilts The Mohawk Valley Quilt Club presents its Fall Festival of Quilts Sept. 11-13 at the Utica Curling Club in Whitesboro. Held every two years, the show features hundreds of quilts, vendors, demonstrations, raffles and Kids Can Sew activities. Admission is $5 per day; children 12 and under are free. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday. The club is located at 8300 Clark Mills Rd., Whitesboro. Sept. 18 | Mohawk Valley Gives The fifth annual Mohawk Valley Gives returns Sept. 18, bringing the region together to support nonprofits serving the Mohawk Valley. Hosted by the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties and UpMobility Foundation, the event raised more than $6.5 million for hundreds of organizations last year. Early giving begins Sept. 14, with opportunities to donate to participating nonprofits, sponsor prizes or create a fundraiser. Sept. 26-27 | Mercantile Outdoor Market Foothills Mercantile hosts its Mercantile Outdoor Market Sept. 26-27 along Route 12 in Barneveld. The two-day market features vintage, antique, retro and artisan vendors, along with food and other regional offerings. Browse one-of-a-kind finds, meet area makers and enjoy an early fall outing in the Mohawk Valley. Hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. both days. Admission is free. Sept. 26-27 | Sts. Cosmas and Damian Pilgrimage St. Anthony and St. Agnes Church celebrates its 112th annual Sts. Cosmas and Damian Pilgrimage Sept. 26-27 in East Utica. The weekend includes Masses, processions, Blessing of the Sick, music by Coro Italiano and La Banda Rossa, and traditional festival foods. Sunday’s Grand Procession begins at noon. The church is located at 413-415 St. Anthony St., Utica. Sept. 30 | Grants for Women-Owned Businesses The Women’s Fund of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, with Baird Private Wealth Management and Griffiss Institute, is offering five $5,000 grants to eligible women-owned businesses in Herkimer and Oneida counties. Funds may support equipment, technology, consulting, training, education and marketing. Applications are due Sept. 30, with grants awarded in November. Details are available at womensfundhoc.org. 20 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

CALABRIACOFFEE COFFEE CALABRIA GENESEEST. ST.NEW NEW 5252 GENESEE HARTFORD HARTFORD

@CALABRIACOFFEE @CALABRIACOFFEE HOSTVENUE VENUE HOST

SIP. SHOP. SOMETHING WORTHY. SIP. SHOP. SOMETHING WORTHY.

Worthyisispopping poppingup upinin Worthy NewHartford Hartfordfor foraashopping shoppingexperience experience New youwon’t won’twant wantto tomiss! miss! you

SUNDAY9/20 9/20AT AT SUNDAY CALABRIACOFFEE COFFEE CALABRIA 9-12PM 9-12PM

Worthy Designer Resale Boutique Worthy Designer 767 Lenox Ave, Resale OneidaBoutique 767 Lenox Ave, Oneida

Worthyboutiqueoneida.com Worthyboutiqueoneida.com

(315) 367-5003 (315) 367-5003

MV Spotlight

By Carrie Byrne Putelo

Utica University Celebrates 80 Years Eight decades of learning, opportunity and an enduring connection to the Mohawk Valley.

Utica University has been part of the Mohawk Valley for 80 years, but its connection to this community goes all the way back to the beginning. In September 1946, local leaders and hundreds of residents gathered at Hotel Utica to celebrate the opening of the city’s first institution of higher learning. This September, Utica University will return to that same historic downtown setting to celebrate its 80th anniversary. The 80th Anniversary Community Dinner will be held Wednesday, September 30, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton Historic Hotel Utica, exactly 80 years after the University’s first Convocation ceremony. It is a fitting place to mark the occasion. Eight decades ago, Hotel Utica was where the community came together to welcome a new college and recognize what an institution of higher learning could mean for Utica and the surrounding region.

Over the next eight decades, generations of students passed through its classrooms and went on to build lives and careers here in the Mohawk Valley and far beyond it. The University grew and changed along the way, becoming part of the lives of countless people and families throughout the region. The Mohawk Valley helped shape the University, too. From those who supported the idea of a college in Utica in its earliest years to the businesses, organizations, alumni and friends who continue to support its students today, that relationship has always extended beyond campus.

That shared history is what makes the 80th anniversary more than a University milestone. It is part of our region’s story, too.

1946

TODAY

Utica University opened in 1946 at a time when higher education was out of reach for many young people in the area. Having a college in Utica meant students could pursue an education closer to home, opening doors to opportunities that had not been available to generations before them. The school’s earliest days looked very different from the University we know today, but its relationship with the region was there from the very start.

22 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

Returning to Hotel Utica brings that story back to one of the places where it began. The anniversary dinner will bring together alumni, friends and supporters to remember the University’s early years, celebrate the generations who followed and look ahead to what comes next. The celebration will also support today’s students. Proceeds will benefit student activities, conference participation and other opportunities that give students experiences and connections beyond the classroom. A lot has changed since hundreds of people gathered at Hotel Utica to welcome a new college in 1946. Eighty years later, gathering there again is a meaningful way to celebrate that history, the generations who have been part of it and an enduring connection between Utica University and the Mohawk Valley.

MV Spotlight

Beacon Bank Builds on Berkshire Bank’s Legacy in the Mohawk Valley

Beacon Bank recently completed a multimillion-dollar branch renovation project that included many locations in the Mohawk Valley, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing the client experience.

By Carrie Byrne Putelo

As proof that a bank's presence in a community is shaped as much by its people as by its name, you need look no further than the longtime local bankers leading Beacon Bank in the Mohawk Valley.

business model that combines the resources of a larger financial institution with the responsiveness and accessibility of a smaller institution.

Together, they bring decades of combined experience in business banking, commercial lending and commercial real estate, as well as a deep understanding of the region and long-standing relationships built through years of serving local businesses and organizations:

Earlier this year, Berkshire Bank rebranded to Beacon Bank, following a merger where it combined with three other community banks while maintaining local leadership and focus. While the name is new, the people behind it and their commitment to personal service and local relationships are not.

Alicia Brockway, senior business banker Brian Bonura, regional manager Kevin M. Gaglione, director & commercial real estate team leader John Hobika, relationship manager Marianne Stowell, commercial lender Frank Tamburrino, cash management sales manager David Wood, senior commercial banking portfolio manager They are now able to offer local decision making, expanded solutions and responsiveness thanks to Beacon Bank’s unique 24 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

That local connection is central to Beacon Bank's philosophy and position the bank to support the continued growth and success of the Mohawk Valley, as evidenced by its recent completion of a multimillion-dollar branch renovation project that included many of its locations in the Mohawk valley. With a history spanning nearly 200 years, Beacon Bank believes the strongest relationships are built close to home, that its local bankers understand the needs of local businesses and should be empowered to make decisions with those needs, and the needs of its communities, in mind.

E B R AT I N L E G

YEARS - EST. 1995 -

SAME HOMETOWN DINER

Looookk!! BBrraanndd NNeeww L

WHERE EVERY MEAL

FEELS LIKE HOME

For over three decades, Boulevard Diner has been a hometown favorite in the Mohawk Valley— serving homemade breakfasts, hearty lunches, classic dinners and desserts made with care. Come hungry, settle in and enjoy the familiar flavors that have kept generations coming back.

BREAKFAST

LUNCH

DINNER

- Made from Scratch Meals -

- Daily Specials -

- Homemade Desserts -

24 Roosevelt Drive in Whitesboro

(315) 768-3042

boulevarddinerny.com

Open 7am-8pm, Monday- Friday, Sunday 7am-2pm

Boulevard Diner

MV Spotlight

30 Years Years at the Boulevard 30 Boulevard ByCarrie CarrieByrne ByrnePutelo Putelo By Forover overthree threedecades, decades, Rich Rich Grimaldi Grimaldi and For and hisfamily familyhave havegrown grown Boulevard Boulevard Diner his Diner intoaaplace placegenerations generations of of Mohawk Mohawk Valley into Valley familieshave havecome cometo to know know as as their families their own. own. I first met Rich Grimaldi years ago, so I first met Rich Grimaldi years ago, so sitting down with him recently to talk sitting down with him recently to talk about 30 years at Boulevard Diner felt less about 30 years at Boulevard Diner felt less like an interview and more like catching like an interview like up with someoneand I’vemore known forcatching a long up with someone I’ve known for a long time. time. I grew up in New Jersey, where diners are I part grewofup inlandscape. New Jersey, where diners the I won’t say thereare part the I won’t say there wasof one onlandscape. every corner, but sometimes was one on way. everyThey corner, it felt that werebut thesometimes places you itwent felt that way. They were the it, places to without overthinking the you went to that without overthinking it, the places somehow worked for places that lunch, somehow worked fordessert breakfast, dinner, coffee, breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee, dessert or a conversation you didn’t want to rush. when I found Boulevard it orSo, a conversation you didn’tDiner wanthere, to rush. gave me Ithat same feeling. It was here, it So, when found Boulevard Diner comfortable in a way that made gave me that same feeling. It wasthis area feel a little more like home. comfortable in a way that made this area feel a little more like home. Of course, most of us know Boulevard It’smost one ofofthose places that has OfDiner. course, us know Boulevard been around enough thatthat you has don’t Diner. It’s onelong of those places necessarily stop to think about how it been around long enough that you don’t became what it is know necessarily stop totoday. think You about howwhere it it is. You’ve by it countless became whatdriven it is today. You knowtimes. where I’d probably joke with RoAnn Destito that it is. You’ve driven by it countless times. it’s one of the few places I don’t need I’d probably joke with RoAnn Destito that Google Maps to get to. Chances are you’ve it’s one of the few places I don’t need met someone there for breakfast, stopped Google Maps to get to.over Chances are you’ve in for lunch, lingered coffee and pie met someone there for breakfast, stopped in the afternoon, or sat across the table infrom for lunch, and pie family lingered or friendsover overcoffee dinner. in the afternoon, or sat across the table But sitting Rich and talking about from familywith or friends over dinner. the past 30 years made me look at the But sitting with Rich andBehind talkingthe about diner a little differently. the past 30 years made mestory lookof atathe familiar restaurant is the young diner differently. Behind chef,aalittle family, a lot of hard workthe and a familiar restaurant is the story of a young business that kept growing because chef, a family, a lot ofback. hard work and a people kept coming business that kept growing because 26 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026 people kept coming back.

Rich’s began with food. Rich’spath pathtotoBoulevard Boulevard began with food. He University, Heattended attendedJohnson Johnson& &Wales Wales University, where arts and built wherehe hestudied studiedculinary culinary arts and built the that would thefoundation foundationfor fora acareer career that would eventually Boulevard eventuallylead leadhim himtotocreate create Boulevard Diner. In 1995, Rich and Roxanne took a Diner. In 1995, Rich and Roxanne took a leap of faith and opened the restaurant in leap of faith and opened the restaurant in a building that had once housed a Chinese a building that had once housed a Chinese restaurant and had been closed for some restaurant and had been closed for some time. time. It is hard to picture that now. The It is hard Diner to picture thattoday now. has The Boulevard we know Boulevard Diner we know today has grown considerably from those early grown considerably from those early days. The building expanded, the menu days.and Thethe building expanded, the menu grew restaurant continued to grew and the restaurant continued evolve as more people walked throughtothe evolve as more people walked through the doors. doors. Looking at old photographs, you can see that history unfold. There is something Looking at old photographs, you can see about seeing aunfold. familiar placeisas it once that history There something was that makes stop place for a minute. about seeing a you familiar as it once You what has what wasnotice that makes youchanged stop forand a minute. has added and realize thatand while all Youbeen notice what has changed what of usbeen were added busy living our ownthat lives, the all has and realize while diner and changing right the of us was weregrowing busy living our own lives, along dinerwith was us. growing and changing right along with us.

Rich’s culinary background andand Rich’s culinary background Roxanne’s early experience in restaurants Roxanne’s early experience in restaurants and hospitality have always been an an and hospitality have always been important part of the story. Boulevard important part of the story. Boulevard may be be a diner, butbut there is a is trained chefchef may a diner, there a trained behind it, someone who has spent his life behind it, someone who has spent his life in food and understands what it takes to in food and understands what it takes to run a kitchen day after day. There are the run a kitchen day after day. There are the dishes people expect and love from a dishes and love from a diner, butpeople there isexpect also the experience diner, but there is also the Rich and Roxanne brought withexperience them Rich Roxanne brought with them from theand beginning. from the beginning. Thirty years in the restaurant business is years It inmeans the restaurant business is noThirty small thing. early mornings nolong small thing. It means mornings and days, weekends andearly holidays, and long days, weekends holidays, changing tastes and changingand times. It changing tastes changing means adapting andand continuing totimes. show It adapting continuing upmeans and serve people,and year after year.to show upwhen and serve people, year after year.so And Rich talks about those years, much the story back to the years, so Andofwhen Rich comes talks about those people. much of the story comes back to the people. There are customers who have been coming Boulevard Diner forhave years, Theretoare customers who been people withtoa Boulevard favorite booth or for a favorite coming Diner years, meal. Theywith walka through door people favoritethe booth orand a favorite know theThey staff,walk and the staff knows them meal. through the door and know the staff, and the staff knows them

1995

OUR SPECIALITES NEUROSURGERY

SPINE SURGERY

ONE TEAM. ONE PLAN.

INTERVENTIONAL PAIN MANAGEMENT

BETTER OUTCOMES.

PROUDLY SERVING CENTRAL NEW YORK New Hartford • Utica • Rome • Lowville • Canton • Hamilton • Amsterdam • Cazenovia

ORTHOPEDICS

REGENERATIVE MEDICINE

Your care plan is built collaboratively by our multidisciplinary team.

GET ANSWERS. SCHEDULE TODAY. 315-792-7629 cnybrainandspine.com

MV Spotlight right back. You can stop in planning to grab a quick meal and end up seeing someone you know, catching up over coffee and staying a little longer than you expected. Think about all the conversations that have taken place there over three decades. Good news shared over breakfast, problems talked through over coffee, families meeting for dinner, friends catching up over lunch. Those moments may never make it into the official history of a business, but they are part of Boulevard’s story just the same. And while customers were raising families and moving through their own lives, Rich and Roxanne were raising their family, too. That may be one of my favorite parts of the story today. Their sons, Richie and Michael, have been working with their parents since their early teens. They grew up with Boulevard Diner as part of their lives, seeing firsthand the long hours, hard work and commitment it takes to run the business. Today, they are helping carry it forward, bringing new knowledge and ideas while building on the foundation their parents created as the next generation of the Grimaldi family at Boulevard Diner. Anyone who has been around a family business knows it is rarely just a business. It comes home with you. The kids grow up around it, seeing the good days and the hard ones. So, when those children grow up and choose to become part of what their parents built, it means something. As Rich and I talked, I thought about how quickly 30 years can pass. We remember the milestones, but so much happens in between, in the places we return to until one day we realize how deeply they’re tied to our memories.

28 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

2005 Maybe you went to Boulevard with your parents when you were younger. Maybe it was where your family went for Sunday breakfast. Maybe you took your kids there for pancakes, stopped for coffee with someone you hadn’t seen in a while or spent an afternoon talking over a piece of pie. Everyone’s Boulevard story is a little different. That is why this anniversary feels like more than simply marking 30 years in business. It is about Rich and his family and what they have built, but it is also about becoming one of those well-known places people count on. In 1995, Rich and Roxanne opened the doors to Boulevard Diner and began building something of their own. Today, Rich can look around the restaurant and see longtime customers still coming through those doors, new families making their own memories and his sons working beside him.

The building is bigger. The business has grown. Another generation of the Grimaldi family is now part of the story. And yet Boulevard Diner still feels like what a good diner has always been: a comfortable place to walk in, sit down, order something good and spend a little time together. When I asked Rich what he thought Boulevard had become known for over all these years, his answer was simple. Boulevard Diner, he said, is a place to eat, not to dine. And I think that says it perfectly. It is not about making a meal complicated. It is about being comfortable, being welcomed, seeing familiar faces and knowing you can come as you are. Maybe that is why Boulevard felt comfortable to me all those years ago, and why it still does. You’ll find Boulevard Diner at 24 Roosevelt Drive in Whitesboro.

Quality first!

Thurs & Fri: Sat: 9-5 www.boulevardtrailers.com • Mon-Wed: 9-6, Thurs: 9-5, Fri:9-8:30; 9-4, Sat: 9-1

And no oneMENAGERIE: beats our prices! ANIMALS IN ART

STORIES UNTOLD: THE BOOK REIMAGINED

VINYL PATIO DOORS, June 8, 2025 EXTERIOR,Through STEEL AND STORM DOORS VINYL REPLACEMENT AND CUSTOM Wellin Museum of Art BOW AND BAY WINDOWS Hamilton College WE HAVE WINDOWS 198 FOR College Hill Rd., Clinton MOBILE HOMES 315-859-4396 hamilton.edu/wellin

May 24 - July 27, 2025 View Old Forge 315-369-6411 viewarts.org

FREE IN HOME ESTIMATES!

315-865-5517 365,LetHolland Having anRte. art opening? us know for a Patent free listing in our monthly guide! Email: mohawkvalleyliving@hotmail.com

Making homes beautiful for over Spring has 100 years Sprung!

Over 50 Years in Business at the Same Location!

Looking for Child Care? MV Best of the Best Garden Center 2024

2024

RECEIVE A tar Orchards Market & Bakery REFERRAL LIST NOW!

Hardwood Flooring, Laminate, Waterproof Flooring, Located Tile, at theCarpeting Ceramic Shoppesand at the FinishRugs. Line Area

Come walk through our garden of fabrics!

F T O N O O Bossone’s Sausage & Meat Co. R N E W Y O R K E N E R G Y Z O N E / U T I C A ZP OO © Utica’s Pork Store Tues-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-1pm, Sun &Utica Mon • (315) 733-0421 • www.enjems.com 2010 OriskanyClosed St. West, Family Monuments Mausoleums & Columbariums Granite Cleaning & Repairs Cemetery Lettering Pre-Need Memorials

2026WildLife Festival

Preplanning Provides Peace of Mind Deli items • Beef • Steaks • Cheeses • Dry Goods Saturday, September 12 Catering Trays Made to Order 10Dough! am – 4 pm Sundays: Fried Meatballs & Fried

Try our Famous Sausage!

711 Bleecker St., Utica

8am-6pmF • 315-853-1024 • NorthStarOrchards.com R(315) E 765-6409 E F aOpen: mThurs i l y& Fri:F9-4,uSat:n8-2,aSun:t 8-Noon 2 L o c a t i oGinanTrzepacz-Timpano s in 1 for seasonal updates! • Live entertainment • Enjoy magic by Jim Okey and comedy magician DeWayne Hill • Chainsaw sculptures by Mark Tyoe • Face painting

• Bounce houses • Specialty vendors • Giveaways • Arts & crafts activities • Photo booth

VISIT FOLLOW John S. Dyson New York Energy Zone OUR WEBSITE

41 • Caricature artist

• Food trucks • Live and in-person: Special appearances from some of our favorite princesses!

(315) 736-1781 1309 Champlin Ave., Yorkville FREE admission to the Utica Zoo, courtesy of NYPA. Admission to the Energy Zone is always FREE and shuttle service will be available from the Parkway Recreation Center and MVCC for the event.

Experience over 40 interactive science exhibits at the New York Energy Zone

New York Energy Zone 315-792-8720

US ON FACEBOOK

be Not to

Utica Zoo Way, Utica NY 13501

315-792-8720 EnergyZone@nypa.gov

By Lauryn Johns There’s something especially meaningful about being named one of the best when the recognition comes from the people who know you best: the people who live, work, shop, dine and raise their families right here in the Mohawk Valley. At Mohawk Valley Living, we spend every month sharing the stories of the people, businesses and organizations that make this region what it is. So when Mohawk Valley residents choose their favorites, we think those familiar names deserve a little extra recognition. With more than 130 categories, we couldn’t possibly feature every winner here. Instead, we’re shining a spotlight on a few familiar faces we’ve had the pleasure of getting to know, along with businesses our readers and neighbors know well. More Than a Title A Community’s Choice Award means something because of exactly what its name suggests: the community chooses. Behind those votes are real experiences. The server who already knows your order. The physical therapist who helped you get back to doing what you love. The local banker who was there for a first home or new business. Or the place your family has been going for so long, you can’t quite remember when the tradition started. Those everyday experiences are what build trust and loyalty over time. When the people you serve take the time to recognize you, that’s an honor worth celebrating.

30 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

The Places We Gather If there’s one thing Mohawk Valley residents have opinions about, it’s where to eat. Breakfast, burgers, Greek food, a good steak. We know our favorites. Boulevard Diner earned the community’s vote for Breakfast, while Symeon’s was chosen for Greek Food. The Black Stallion earned top honors for Steakhouse, Roosters took home the win for Burgers, and Brimfield Farm Winery was voted the community’s favorite Winery. For Rooster’s, this year marks a third consecutive Best Burger win, an honor made even more meaningful by its beginnings as a one-person shop on Charlotte Street. Now at 51 North Genesee Street, Rooster’s remains rooted in local relationships and genuine hospitality, serving fresh-baked buns from Salvatore’s Bakery and beef from Chanatry’s. Faith guides the Christian-owned business, while its name honors Rooster “Mackenzie” Eisland, whose personality lives on through the rooster-with-sunglasses logo inspired by a favorite photo of him.

Different menus and different reasons for visiting, but these are more than places to grab a bite or a drink. They’re where birthdays are celebrated, friends catch up, families gather and traditions are made. Businesses We Trust Some of our strongest relationships with area businesses are built when we need someone we can count on. This year, Helen M. Sarandrea P.T. PLLC was recognized as the Mohawk Valley’s choice for Physical Therapy Clinic, while Wadas Eye Group earned Eye Care Clinic. Beauty by Beer received the community’s vote for Facials, and Carbone Fitness was recognized as the area’s favorite Fitness Center/Gym. Their services may be very different, but each recognition reflects the confidence of the people they serve. That same trust matters when we’re making some of life’s bigger decisions.

More Than Awards: A Reflection of More Than Awards: A Reflection of Community Community There are awards that recognize There are awards achievement, andthat thenrecognize there are awards achievement, andstory. then there are awards that tell a deeper that tell a deeper story. First Source Federal Credit Union has First Credit Union has been Source honoredFederal for over two decades in the been honored for over competition, two decades in Best of the Best award forthe Best of the Best award competition, the last six years placing first in fourfor the last six years placing first Best in four categories: Best Credit Union, categories: Best Credit Union, Best Mortgage Lender, Best Place to Work, Best Mortgage Lender, Owned Best Place to Work, Best Locally (Member) Business. Locally (Member) Owned Business. While receiving these honors is certainly While receiving these honors certainly meaningful, what makes themisespecially meaningful, makes them especially significant iswhat how they are earned. These significant is decided how theybyare earned. These awards were community vote, awards by community vote, making were themdecided a reflection of the trust, making them a reflection of the trust, relationships, and connections built over relationships, and connections built over time between First Source, its members, time between First Source, its members, and community partners. and community partners. For more than eight decades, First For more than eight decades, First Source has operated under the credit Source has operated under the credit union philosophy of people helping union of people helping people.philosophy As a member-owned financial people. As asuccess member-owned financial institution, is measured not institution, success is measured not simply by numbers, but by the impact simply by numbers, but by the impact made in the lives of individuals, families, made in the and livesorganizations of individuals, families, businesses, businesses, and organizations throughout Central New York. throughout Central New York.

The recognition highlights the role First The recognition highlights the rolereach First Source plays in helping members Source plays in helping members reach important financial milestones, while the important financial honors of Best Placemilestones, to Work andwhile Best the honors of Best Place to Work and Locally (Member) Owned BusinessBest speak Locally (Member) Owned Business speak to a culture built on collaboration, to a culture on collaboration, service, andbuilt a shared commitment to the service, and a shared commitment to the community. community. In many ways, these awards belong to In many ways, awards belong to more than justthese First Source. They belong more than just First Source. They belong to the members who choose to bank to the members who partners choose towho bank locally, the business locally, the business partners who collaborate on community initiatives, collaborate on community initiatives, and the employees who bring First and the employees who bring First Source's mission to life every day. Source's mission to life every day.

Most importantly, it is a moment to Most is a moment to pauseimportantly, and express it gratitude. pause and express gratitude. To every member, employee, community To every and member, partner, voter employee, who helpedcommunity make this partner, andpossible: voter who helped make recognition thank you. Yourthis recognition possible: thank you. confidence and support are the Your confidence support are theSource foundation and of everything First foundation of everything First Source does. does. Because at the end of the day, these Because at the of the day,being these awards are not end simply about awards are not simply about being named the best, they are about the named the best, about the community that they madeare it possible. community that made it possible. Together, We Are Community. Together, We Are Community.

32 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

especially at home in the Mohawk Valley, where the changing seasons are such a big part of how we experience the year. The Places That Make This Home Some places become so familiar that it’s easy to forget how fortunate we are to have them here. Munson was recognized in both the Art Gallery and Museum categories, honoring an institution that has long connected the Mohawk Valley with art, culture and creativity. And maybe that’s what a list like this really shows us. What makes the Mohawk Valley special isn’t one landmark, restaurant, shop or institution. It’s the collection of places and people we’ve

come to know as our own. It’s knowing exactly where you want to go for breakfast. Having a business you recommend without hesitation. Seeing familiar names pass from one generation to the next while new ones find their place here. It’s seeing the people behind these businesses employ our friends and neighbors, support area causes and continue investing in the region they call home. That’s the part of “local” that can’t always be measured in a transaction. Chosen by the Mohawk Valley Some of this year’s honorees have been serving the Mohawk Valley for generations. Others are building their tories right now. Some earned recognition in one category, while other took home several honors.

Their stories are different, but every recognition has one important thing in common: it came from you. Every nomination was someone taking a moment to say, “This place deserves to be recognized.” Every vote represented a customer, client, neighbor or friend choosing a business or organization that made an impression on them. Collectively, those votes tell a bigger story about what the Mohawk Valley values. We value businesses that take care of their customers. We value quality and consistency. We value longtime local institutions and the entrepreneurs willing to build something new. Most importantly, we continue to value local.

At Mohawk Valley Living, we have the privilege of meeting the people behind so many of the names on these pages. We see the work they do, the people they employ and the ways they continue to invest in this region. To those featured here, and to all of the 2026 Best of Mohawk Valley Community’s Choice Award winners, congratulations. And to everyone who voted for a favorite, recommended a business to a friend or simply chose to shop, dine and do business close to home, keep doing it. Those choices are what keep the Mohawk Valley’s favorite places part of the place we call home.

Wynn Hospital Golf Classic Returns to Turning Stone The Wynn Hospital Golf Classic presented by Bank of America brought 57 teams to Turning Stone Resort Casino on August 19, raising approximately $250,000 to support Wynn Hospital. Played across Shenendoah and Kaluhyat, the annual outing helps support patients and families throughout the Mohawk Valley. Among the teams taking part was the group pictured at right, who have played together in the tournament since 1993.

34 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

MV Roots

By Libby Lemire

MV ROOTS:

SAM WINEBURG Sam’s accomplishments could fill pages. I stumbled upon him—one of the country’s leading experts in figuring out what’s real online—while trying to determine whether some content I found was legit. A quick Wikipedia check said “born and raised in Utica.” I felt that small-world thrill and pride that this world-renowned digital expert was one of our own. After graduating from UFA, Sam spent his undergraduate years at Brown and UC Berkeley, and earned his Ph.D. in Psychological Studies in Education from Stanford. He worked as a research psychologist studying how people learn and make decisions at both the University of Washington and Stanford. In 2022, he co-founded the nonprofit Digital Inquiry Group (DIG), which focuses on how people think, reason, and evaluate information online. Time, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Washington Post, NPR, ABC, NBC, and CBS have all featured Sam’s work—he’s become a major voice in the fight against misinformation and disinformation. Sam was recently back in town visiting an old friend—the one who sat in front of him in Spanish class for four years—and he was happy to share the details of his visit. Predictably, he began with our food: “You can’t get Italian food like you can in Utica…” He hit Ventura’s and admired the waiters still wearing tuxes. He discovered Emerson Ave Coffee, calling it “a lovely little coffee shop,” and said, “If I were to move back to Utica, I could write there.” He stopped for a “nostalgic Utica Club” at Killabrew, where someone approached him and asked, “Are you Sammy Wineburg?” Other than the fact that he doesn’t go by “Sammy,” he was delighted and said, “It’s the type of thing that happens in a small town, not in Seattle.” 36 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

“

We live in an attention economy—it’s about keeping our eyes glued to the screen. Before we give over our attention to any source, we need to pause for a minute. The most valuable thing we have in a digital society is our attention, and we shouldn’t waste it. His family owned Ruth’s Department Store on Whitesboro Street—a “variety store.” Before that, it was the Wineburg Creamery. His ancestors were dairymen, the first to bring yogurt to Utica, according to his father. And yes, Sam is well aware of Chobani’s contributions to the area. Sam was the editor of UFA’s school newspaper, The Corridors. It was judged best in the state in 1976, and Sam was awarded Journalist of the Year. He says the odds were stacked in his favor, thanks to his co-editor, Mark Danner, who later won the MacArthur “genius award.” Also in those years, Sam discovered a love for running on Utica streets when “running shoes were your Converse All-Stars.” He painted houses for the city and spent hours at Murnane Field watching his left-handed brother play first base for Utica College. But one memory from home stays with him, and it helped shape who he is today. His UFA social studies teacher, Elaine Cantor, took the entire class to a hearing at the Public Utilities Commission where she testified against a rate increase. “The idea that an ordinary citizen could make their voice heard, in a very powerful, articulate way, made a lasting impression on me.” As we pioneer through a quickly changing virtual frontier, Sam is at the forefront of how people make thoughtful decisions about what to believe. He wrote a book: Verified: How to Think Straight, Get Duped Less, and Make Wise Decisions about What to Believe Online, which Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Ressa praised as “the way to navigate spin, trolls and lies.”

”

Asking a couple of basic questions can save us from the regrettable rabbit hole. If we don’t know the source—whether it’s an influencer, a website, or a claim—ask: Who’s behind this? And what’s their reputation? Not doing that, Sam says, is like hiring a roofer who knocks on your door and says: “I’m in the neighborhood fixing roofs…I’m really honest, I'll give you the best price.” You would never choose a roofer on that basis—you would check that person's reputation. Borrowing from what professional fact checkers do, Sam teaches a technique called lateral reading. Lateral reading means using the full context of the online ecosystem to assess credibility. It means searching to see what credible, known sources say about an organization, an influencer, a video, or an assertion. The internet is an interconnected source network—the way you know about any source is by understanding how it connects to others. “The internet has created a state of confusion,” said Sam. Don’t be bamboozled by seemingly professional charts, impressive-sounding stats, advisory boards, scientific-sounding endorsements, supposed credentials—or assume a .org is trustworthy—anyone can get a .org domain, including hate groups. Dig deeper. “We live in an attention economy—it’s about keeping our eyes glued to the screen. Before we give over our attention to any source, we need to pause for a minute. The most valuable thing we have in a digital society is our attention, and we shouldn’t waste it.” Thanks for sharing, Sam.

Old Forge

Adirondack Base Camp

Explore all of Our Communities:

Thendara

Eagle Bay

Big Moose

Stillwater

Only 1 scenic hour from the Mohawk Valley Yet a World Apart It’s Our Nature

Come lose yourself And find your Adirondack Spirit

KURT GARDNER Photography Main Street Old Forge

OldForgeNY.com

MV Entertainment

There’s No Place Like Home There’s No Place Like Home Broadway Comes to Utica

Broadway Comes to Utica Some stories just stay with you, and The Wizard of Oz has always been one Some stories justdaughter stay with you, and of those for my and me. We The Wizard of Oz has always been watched it together when she wasone oflittle, those for my and me. loved thedaughter characters and theWe watched it together when she was music, and at one point she even little, loved characters and the ruby dressed as the Dorothy for Halloween, music, and at all. one point she even slippers and dressed as Dorothy for Halloween, ruby slippers and all.

Then, as she got older, she fell in love with THE WIZ, discovering a whole new version of a story she already knew so Then, as she got older, she fell in love well. I still have that photo of her as with THE WIZ, discovering a whole new Dorothy, and when I saw that version of aUtica storywas sheopening already its knew Broadway newso I still have that photo of her well. season with THE WIZ, September as 29–3 Dorothy, and whenbrought I saw that 0, it immediately me back to Broadway Utica was opening its new those years. season with THE WIZ, September 29–3 is probably part of why am soto 0,That it immediately brought meI back excited to see this show. We all know those years. Dorothy, the yellow brick road, the That is probably partand of why I am Scarecrow, Tin Man Lion, butso THE excited to see this show.story We all know WIZ takes that familiar and gives Dorothy, the yellow bricklife. road, the it a completely different Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion, but THE 38 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026 WIZ takes that familiar story and gives it a completely different life.

The original Broadway production opened in 1975 and became a The original Broadway production sensation, winning seven Tony Awards, opened in 1975 and became a including Best Musical and Best sensation, winning Tony“Ease Awards, Original Score. Songsseven including including Best Musical and Best on Down the Road,” “Everybody Original and Score. Songsbecame including Rejoice” “Home” part“Ease of on Down Road,” “Everybody the show’sthe lasting legacy, and for Rejoice” andof“Home” became generations audiences, THE part WIZ of the show’s lasting and for became its own waylegacy, of experiencing generations of audiences, THE WIZ Oz. became its own way of experiencing Now, Oz. more than 50 years later, an allnew production is bringing that story back stages across America, Now,to more than 50 years later,direct an allfrom Broadway. Directed by Schele new production is bringing that story Williams, with choreography by direct JaQuel back to stages across America, Knight and additional material by from Broadway. Directed by Schele writer andwith television host Amber Williams, choreography by JaQuel Ruffin, everything Knight the andproduction additional takes material by people love television about the show and writer and host Amber introduces to a new generation. Ruffin, the it production takes everything people love about the show and it For me, that is what makes seeing introduces it to a new generation. now so much fun. I know the story, and IFor want tothat see the costumes, me, is what makesthe seeing it choreography and the way Emerald now so much fun. I know the story, and City comes to life. I want to hear those I want to see the costumes, the songs performed live and see how this choreography and the way Emerald creative team has taken a show with so City comes to life. I want to hear those much history and made it feel fresh songs performed live and see how this again. creative team has taken a show with so much historyofand made it feel fresh At the center it all is still Dorothy and her journey to find her way home, again. but as with so many stories we first At the center of it allyou is still Dorothy discover as children, begin to see and her journey to find wayget home, something different in ither as you but asItwith so many stories we first older. is about finding courage, discover as children, beginleaning to see recognizing your own you strength, something different in itand as you get on the people beside you older. It is about finding understanding where youcourage, belong. recognizing your own strength, leaning on the people beside you and understanding where you belong.

Maybe that is one reason the story has endured for so long. There is also Maybe that is one reason the story has something especially meaningful to me endured for so long. There is also about getting to experience it with my something especially meaningful daughter now. A story that was onceto me about getting to experience it with withamy part of her childhood, complete daughter now. A story that was once Dorothy costume and ruby slippers, part of her complete with a and that she childhood, later rediscovered Dorothy costume ruby slippers, through THE WIZ, isand something we now and she later rediscovered get to that share together. Instead of throughitTHE WIZ, iswe’ll something watching at home, get to sitwe innow a get to share together. of theater together and seeInstead that familiar journey liveitonstage. watching at home, we’ll get to sit in a theater together and see that familiar That is one of the things I love most journey live onstage. about theater. Even when you know the story, there is still something That is one of the things I love most exciting about the moment about theater. Even whenthe youlights know gothe down andthere the music No two story, is stillbegins. something performances are exactly the same, exciting about the moment the lights and for the next few hours, the entire go down and the music begins. No two audience gets to are stepexactly into another performances the same, world together. and for the next few hours, the entire audience gets tofortunate step into to another We are incredibly have world together. Broadway Utica bringing productions like this to our community, and THE We are incredibly fortunate to have WIZ feels like the perfect way to open Broadway Utica bringing productions the season. It brings back the Oz we like this to our community, and THE know while making it feel completely WIZ feels like the perfect way to open new. the season. It brings back the Oz we knowawhile making it feel completely I have feeling when the curtain goes new. up, I will be thinking about that little girl dressed as Dorothy all those years I have a feeling when the curtain goes ago. There really is no place like home. up, I will be thinking about that little girl dressed as Dorothy all those years ago. There really is no place like home.

Lila and I will see you at the show!

WHAT IF IT’S WHAT IF IT’S

NOT JUST JUST AGE? AGE? The fatigue. The fatigue. The restless nights. The restless nights. The stubborn weight. The stubborn weight. The brain fog. The brain fog. The mood changes. The mood changes. The loss of libido. The loss of libido. The feeling that something is… different. The feeling that something is… different.

Maybe your body is asking for answers. Maybe your body is asking for answers. Hormone optimization begins with listening to your Hormone begins to youra symptoms,optimization looking at the rightwith labs,listening and creating symptoms, looking at the right labs, personalized plan for where you areand nowcreating — not a personalized plan fororwhere you are where you were five ten years ago.now — not where you were five or ten years ago. YOUR HORMONES. YOUR HEALTH. YOUR NEXT CHAPTER. YOUR HORMONES. YOUR HEALTH. YOUR NEXT CHAPTER. Discover personalized hormone optimization at Discover personalized hormone optimization at

LL U UX XX X G G LL O O

BE A U T Y B A R BE A U T Y B A R FOUNDED BY AMANDA STEWART, FNP-BC, BOARD-CERTIFIED

FOUNDED BY PRACTITIONER, AMANDA STEWART, BOARD-CERTIFIED FAMILY NURSE SKILLEDFNP-BC, IN ACUTE CARE MEDICINE. FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER, SKILLED IN ACUTE CARE MEDICINE. LOOK GOOD FEEL GOOD DO GOOD LOOK GOOD FEEL GOOD DO GOOD 2604 Genesee St. 2604 Genesee Utica, NY 13502St. Utica, NY 13502

315-316-0014 315-316-0014

luxxglobeautybar.com luxxglobeautybar.com

PER S ONAL IZED HO RM O NE O P TIM IZATIO N PER S ONAL IZED HO RM O NE O P TIM IZATIO N

MV Entertainment

SEPTEMBER ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR

By Megan Wright

43rd Annual Iroquois Arts Festival (1) When: September 5th-6th @10:00am-4:00pm Where: Iroquois Museum, 324 Caverns Rd, Howes Cave Empty Pockets Ranch 6th Annual Sunflower Festival (2) When: September 5th-6th @10:00am-4:00pm Where: Empty Pockets Ranch, 5172 State Route 145, Cobleskill Fort Klock’s 53rd Annual Craft Fair When: September 12th-13th @9:00am-3:00pm Where: Fort Klock Historic Restoration

Amsterdam’s Italiafest (3) When: September 12th @11:00am-9:00pm Where: Bridge St, Amsterdam

Mohawk Valley Garlic & Herb Festival (4) When: September 12th Where: Canal Place, Little Falls FCRSPCA’s 14th Annual Woofstock (5) When: September 12th @1:00pm Where: Sherman’s Park, 114 East Shore Road West, Caroga Lake Sharon Springs Harvest Festival 2026 When: September 19th @10:00am-5:00pm; September 20th @10:00am-4:00pm Where: 199 Main Street, Sharon Springs

Sherman’s Park Car Show (6) When: September 19th @10:00am-2:00pm Where: Sherman’s Park, 114 East Shore Road West, Caroga Lake Remsen Barn Festival of the Arts Events When: September 26th-27th Sat: 10:00am-6:00pm, Sun: 10:00am-5:00pm Where: Remsen Arts Center, 9627 Main Street, Remsen The Wiz (7) When: September 29th-30th @7:30pm Where: The Stanley Theatre, 259 Genesee Street, Utica

COMING SOON Utica Comets: Home Opener When: October 10th @6:00pm Where: Adirondack Bank Center, Utica Info: uticacomets.com

Little Falls Cheese Festival One of the Mohawk Valley’s favorite fall traditions returns Saturday, October 3, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. along Main Street in Little Falls. The Little Falls Cheese Festival brings together New York State cheesemakers, gourmet foods, craft beverages, live music, food trucks and more. Sample and shop everything from cheddar and gouda to goat cheese, curds, yogurt and butter. New this year are ticketed guided cheese tastings led by The Cheese Traveler of Albany. When: October 3rd @10:00am-5:00pm Where: Main Street, Little Falls Info: littlefallscheesefestival.com 40 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

MV Entertainment

THE MUSIC SCENE By Tom Starr

British Invasion Tribute (1) When: September 10, 6:30pm Where: Paris Hill Barn, 2817 Old State Rt. 12., Paris

Cincinnati Creek in Concert (2) When: September 11, 7:30pm-9:30pm Where: Remsen Arts Center, 9627 Main St., Remsen Dark Star Orchestra (3) When: September 15, 7:00pm, doors open 6:00pm Where: Saranac Brewery, 830 Varick St., Utica Suzy Bogguss (4) When: September 18, 8:00pm Where: The Showroom at Turning Stone, Verona Sons Of Hudson (5) When: September 19, 3:00pm-6:00pm Where: Sunken City Cider, 193 Stryker Road, Gilboa

Zebra 50th Anniversary Tour (6) When: September 19, 7:00pm-10:00pm Where: Capitol Theatre, 220 West Dominick St., Rome Edwin McCain (7) When: September 19, 8:00pm Where: The Showroom at Turning Stone, Verona Annie & the Hedonists in Concert (8) When: September 20, 4:00pm-6:00pm Where: Remsen Arts Center, 9627 Main St., Remsen Martina McBride (9) When: September 25, 8:00pm Where: The Event Center at Turning Stone, Verona

Brantley Gilbert: Real American Tour ft. John Morgan & Jay Webb (10) When: September 26, 7:00pm Where: The Event Center at Turning Stone, Verona Glen Conservancy Hall Concerts - Kevin McKrell (11) When: September 27, 3:00pm-5:00pm Where: Glen Conservancy Hall, 1538 Mill Point Rd., Glen

DON'T MISS SIRSY (12) When: September 17, 6:30pm Where: Unity Hall, 101 Vanderkemp Ave., Barneveld

“The little band with the big sound…” - Boston Globe “Krahmer has one of the most powerful and flexible voices you’ll ever hear.” - Albany Times Union “Pouring their souls out was SIRSY… just phenomenal!” DAMN! This band is the complete package…” - Will Tompkins - SXSW “Both my ears and spirit were healed… one of the few times I’ve gotten chills at a show!” - Shutter 16 Magazine

COMING SOON Jordan Davis (13) When: October 24, 8:00pm Where: The Event Center at Turning Stone, Verona 42 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

A View From the Bench

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE Through The Lens of a Judge By Hon. Bernadette T. Clark

With each day that passes, it becomes increasingly clear that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant concept of the future; it is part of our daily lives. Likewise, AI also is more frequently becoming an issue within our judicial system. As a Judge, I cannot ignore the profound ethical challenges AI presents. Nor can I ignore the potential that AI poses to influence and reconfigure legal proceedings. This article focuses on AI from a Judge’s perspective, including its impact, benefits, and risks, as well as the role of human judgment in the judicial system. AI—particularly, generative AI—is increasingly being used by attorneys, self-represented litigants, and members of the judiciary, to draft legal documents including motions, decisions, and court orders. Although AI can generate briefs, memoranda of law, and other legal papers with staggering efficiency, it occasionally “hallucinates,” meaning AI platforms sometimes literally make up laws, statutes, or case citations that do not exist. Filing papers that contain AI hallucinations can be a very costly mistake for lawyers and self-represented litigants. Numerous lawyers have been sanctioned by Judges—sometimes severely— for submitting court filings that contain cases or other citations hallucinated by AI. AI hallucinations are dangerous because the information they produce looks plausible on its face but in fact does not exist. When attorneys and litigants cite non-existent legal authorities created by AI,

they mislead and misinform courts. Attorneys and litigants who rely upon AI-generated legal research without verifying that the resulting citations are accurate risk misinterpreting the law and suffering devastating professional and ethical consequences. Effective June 1, 2026, the New York State Unified Court System issued Part 161 regulating the use of AI by attorneys in the New York State Courts. Under this rule, the use of AI is permitted in preparing documents that are submitted to New York State Courts. Although many states require lawyers to disclose the fact that they used generative AI in creating their submissions, New York does not require such a disclosure. Part 161 defines AI as:

“a machine–based system that can, for a given set of human-defined objectives, make predictions, recommendations or decisions influencing real or virtual environments, and that uses machineand human-based inputs to perceive real and virtual environments, abstract such perceptions into models through analysis in an automated manner, and use model inference to formulate options for information or action.” Under the model rule, Section 161, Appendix A, attorneys and litigants are required to

44 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

Hon. Bernadette T. Clark, Supreme Court Justice

As the timeless adage goes, trust but verify … especially when using AI. carefully review any paper filed with a Court and independently ensure that it contains no fabricated or fictitious cases, statutes or other relevant materials. According to this model rule, attorneys and selfrepresented litigants are held to the exact same standards, and no distinction will be made if this requirement is not met. If this requirement is violated, the violating attorney or party may be subject to sanctions or other actions as the Judge finds appropriate. The use of AI in court papers is increasing, especially with self-represented individuals. While these submissions are acceptable, Courts are growing increasingly concerned that

self-represented litigants may have difficulty distinguishing between real and hallucinated cases and statutes. This is especially worrying because there have been several reported cases where even attorneys have overlooked non-existent citations in their submissions because, on their face, the AI-generated “hallucinated” cases look very real. AI is an amazing tool and using it undoubtedly saves time. However, the user must beware! To avoid problems, be sure to check and double-check any Court submissions thoroughly and carefully. As the timeless adage goes, trust but verify… especially when using AI.

MV Eats

Mediterranean Kitchen & Steak House 18 Canal Street, Fort Plain Our first stop was Mediterranean Kitchen & Steak House in Fort Plain, where owners Frank and Hanife welcomed us to their restaurant on Canal Street. I started with the Greek salad, a fresh combination of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion and parsley with a beautifully light olive oil dressing. It was simple and so good, especially with the warm, freshly made pita, lightly toasted until it was just crispy around the edges, exactly the way I like it. I packed up the rest of the salad and pita and had it for dinner that evening. Lightly toasted again, the pita with that fresh salad made the perfect light summer dinner.

Symeon’s Greek Restaurant, Yorkville

A Mediterranean Food Tour with RoAnn Destito

By Carrie Byrne Putelo

Every other month, RoAnn Destito and I set out on an MV Eats food tour, and while we always have a plan, there is usually a detour or two along the way. That is part of the fun. This month, we decided on a Mediterranean food tour, which gave us a large sample of family owned places to stop. The Mohawk Valley has a wonderful mix of Greek, Lebanese and Middle Eastern restaurants, many with family recipes and food traditions that have been part of our region for generations. RoAnn also has a story or a memory connected to just about everyone, which makes having her along half the fun. Over the course of our tour, there was warm, homemade pita, grape leaves, kebabs, fresh salads with lemon and olive oil, lentils and rice, kibbeh, moussaka, Turkish coffee and, naturally, plenty of baklava. We talked about the people behind the food, recipes that reminded RoAnn of meals shared years ago, and the little things that make you want to come back. And then there are the unscheduled stops. On our way back from Fort Plain, RoAnn and I decided we couldn't drive through St. Johnsville without stopping at Parkside Drive-In to see what new homemade ice cream flavors they had been making. We even convinced Lila to make the trip and meet us there for ice cream. Was ice cream technically part of our Mediterranean food tour? Not exactly. But when RoAnn and I head out for MV Eats, staying completely on course has never really been the point. Good food, good people and a few unexpected stops along the way usually make for the best stories. 46 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

For my entrée, I ordered the chicken gyro with rice pilaf. RoAnn chose the grape leaves, which she declared very, very good, along with moussaka, the classic Greek eggplant dish served with rice. We finished with two pieces of pistachio baklava, perfectly flaky, buttery and just sweet enough. It’s a wonderful little find if your travels through the Mohawk Valley take you through Fort Plain.

MV Eats

Zeina’s Cafe 607 Varick Street, Utica At Zeina’s Cafe, the only thing that may be better than the food is the hospitality. Albert and Sarkis were there to welcome us, but we missed Layla that day, so RoAnn and I told them we would just have to come back. Not that we needed much convincing. We had kibbeh, made with lamb, onion, spices and pine nuts, along with tabbouleh and grape leaves filled with meat. The flavors were fresh and familiar, the kind of food that immediately brings to mind family recipes and meals shared around a table. For RoAnn, that connection is especially personal. She remembered the days when Layla would cook for her at home and the wonderful lunches and dinners they shared over the years. That’s one of my favorite parts of taking these food tours with RoAnn. A dish arrives at the table and, before long, there’s a story to go with it. And then there was the Turkish coffee, served by Albert. Strong and rich, it definitely gets your attention. I usually don’t drink my coffee black, but Turkish coffee is different. There’s something about the tiny cup, the deep flavor and the conversation that comes along with it. Between the food, the stories and missing Layla, we left knowing this was one stop we’d be making again soon.

Symeon’s Greek Restaurant 4941 Commercial Drive, Yorkville Symeon’s is one of those places RoAnn and I already know and love, so this stop felt a little like visiting an old favorite. Symeon and I live in the same neighborhood, and he joined us for the whole lunch, making it feel as much like catching up with a neighbor as another stop on our food tour. RoAnn ordered the souvlaki lunch platter, while I went for the Greek chicken salad with Thracian chicken, artichokes, roasted peppers and Symeon’s Greek dressing, which is out of this world. And then there were the pita bread croutons. I’m not sure I’ve ever had croutons quite like them. Crispy, flavorful and completely addictive. We also ordered two appetizers for the table: Melitzanes Tiganites, fresh eggplant deep-fried and sprinkled with Symeon seasoning, and Calamarakia Tiganita, calamari in Symeon’s original batter, deep-fried and finished with that same seasoning. I’m not usually a huge eggplant fan, but this was the best eggplant I’ve ever had. It was incredibly crispy, and Symeon explained that the secret is frying it twice. Whatever the method, it works. This is a must-order. The calamari was just as good, crisp and tender with that unmistakable Symeon seasoning. It was a lovely lunch at one of our favorite places, made even better by having Symeon at the table with us.

48 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

& Delivery!

315-797-7709

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

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

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

Sheri’s

EASTSIDE DINER

Sat 6am-Noon, Sun 7am-Noon

Outside Seating & Grab-and-Go Available!

Breakfast, Lunch, Deliveries, Take Out & Catering!

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

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

315 735-7676

Catering & Banquet Facilities Available • www.69steakhouse.com

“We are your home town pizzeria!” Order online or on our app! Open 7 Days a Week

Voted #1 Best of the Best!

315-736-4549

4462 Commercial Dr. www.tonyspizzeriaanddeli.com

best burgersVoted Top 10 around! in NYS for

best burgers! Friday Fish Fry!

Breakfast • Lunch Homemade & Fresh Daily!

11:30am-8pm

Ope Open n frid friday ay fofor r DinDinner! ner!

Open Mon-Sun 7am-7pm or later 1717 Rt. 8, Cassville Winter Hours: M-Th 7-2 Friday 7am-8pm

Friday Fish Fry • Breakfast Served All Day

2199 Bleecker St., Utica (315) 790-5250

Open 7 Days a Week: 6am-2pm, Sunday 7am-2pm

Fri 7-8, Sat 7-1, Sun 7-Noon

Breakfast Sandwiches Deli-Style Wraps/Sandwiches Salads, Soups & more! Homemade Baked Goods & Multi-Color Bagels - a kid’s favorite!

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

(315) 790-5353 • Open 7 Days a Week

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

87 years

serving the Mohawk Valley!

Visit our 2 locations:

Oriskany Blvd., Yorkville • Ilion Marina, 190 Central Ave, Ilion

Contemporary American • Private Functions • Reservations Recommended

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

MV Eats

Karam's Middle East Bakery, Yorkville

Mariam’s 372 Oriskany Blvd., Whitesboro Mariam’s has a charm all its own, including the feel of the old diner it once was, counter and all. It gives the place a familiar, casual feel before the food even arrives. The fattoush salad immediately got my attention. Fresh lettuce, cucumbers and tomatoes were topped with perfectly seasoned, crispy pita chips and a dressing made with pomegranate juice, oil and vinegar that was out of this world. You could taste just a hint of sweetness from the pomegranate, but it wasn’t overpowering. It was light, fresh and just right.

hot right off the grill and served with rice. The chicken was beautifully seasoned and so tender that when I pulled a piece from the skewer with my pita, it practically fell apart. That’s when you know it’s good. The rice had a wonderful flavor of its own, too, and with the fresh pita and kebabs, this was one of those meals where RoAnn and I kept reaching across the table for another taste of everything. We finished with homemade rice pudding made with orange blossom water and topped with finely shaved coconut. The subtle floral flavor of the orange blossom made it something a little different and a lovely way to end our meal.

Fresh, flavorful and made with care, Mariam’s was another delicious Then came the chicken kebabs, steaming stop on our Mediterranean tour.

Karam’s Middle East Bakery 137 Campbell Avenue, Yorkville Walking into Karam’s Middle East Bakery feels a little like walking into someone’s kitchen. Mary Ann and Segean Karam have a way of making everyone feel like family, whether you’ve been coming for years or it’s your first visit. RoAnn ordered the mjedra, a traditional Lebanese dish of lentils and rice topped with caramelized onions. I love lentils, so of course I had to have a taste. It’s one of those simple, comforting dishes that doesn’t need much fuss, just good ingredients and plenty of flavor. I ordered the beef and rice, tender slices of beautifully seasoned beef served over rice. We also shared the Lebanese salad, filled with fresh vegetables and parsley and lightly dressed with lemon and olive oil. Everything was bright and fresh, and of course, even better with Karam’s fresh, house-made pita. Our own Mohawk Valley Living health editor, Dr. Juleen Qandah, knows Karam’s well and stops in regularly for her family's favorites like grape leaves tabouli, and meat and spinach pies. But as good as the food is, part of what makes a stop at Karam’s so special is Mary Ann and Segean themselves. There’s conversation across the counter, food made with care and a warmth that makes you want to stay awhile. At Karam’s, you really do feel like family.

50 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

FreshHaddock HaddockGiambotta Giambotta Fresh 9663River RiverRd., Rd.,Marcy Marcy 9663

MushroomStew Stew Mushroom Chicken & Biscuits Chicken & Biscuits MeatloafGoulash Goulash&&More! More! Meatloaf

315-797-7709 315-797-7709

Family-ownedrestaurant, restaurant, Family-owned forover over40 40years, years,serving serving for traditionalLebanese Lebanese traditional dishessuch suchasaschicken chicken dishes kabobs&&hummus. hummus. kabobs

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

623French FrenchRoad Road 623 NewHartford, Hartford,NY NY13413 13413 New 315-733-2709 315-733-2709

Sheri’s Sheri’s EASTSIDE

EASTSIDE DINER DINER

Lunches Served Friday & Saturday

HappyHour HourDaily Daily4-7, 4-7,$3 $3Domestic DomesticDrafts Drafts&&$3.50 $3.50Well WellMixers Mixers Happy

Tuesday:All-U-Can-Eat All-U-Can-EatSpaghetti Spaghetti Tuesday: Call cater Call usus toto cater your work work oror Wednesday:Pasta PastaandandBoneless BonelessWings WingsSpecials Specials your Wednesday: family events! family events! Thursday:All-U-Can-Eat All-U-Can-EatChicken ChickenRiggies Riggies Thursday:

Servingall allyou youfavorite favorite Serving homemadecomfort comfort homemade foods!Breakfast Breakfastserved served foods! allday! day! all

TakeOutOut Take Delivery! & &Delivery!

Serving Serving Lunch Dinner Lunch &&Dinner Lunches Served Friday & Saturday

Mon-Thu6am-1pm, 6am-1pm,FriFri6am-7pm, 6am-7pm, Mon-Thu Sat 6am-Noon, Sun 7am-Noon Sat 6am-Noon, Sun 7am-Noon

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

TakeOutOut&&Catering! Catering! Take

Check out our weekly specials Check out our weekly specials onon facebook and www.rososcafe.com facebook and atat www.rososcafe.com

Open:Monday-Friday: Monday-Friday:8-2 8-2 Open: 185Genesee GeneseeStSt2nd 2ndFloor, Floor,Utica Utica 185

315735-7676 735-7676 315

best best VotedTop Top10 10 Voted burgers burgers NYSfor for around!ininNYS around!

bestburgers! burgers! best Friday Friday Fish Fry! Fish Fry!

Breakfast• •Lunch Lunch Breakfast Homemade&&Fresh FreshDaily! Daily! Homemade

11:30am-8pm 11:30am-8pm

O Ope pe Open Open nn frfr id friday id friday for ayay fofo r rfor DDinner! Din in nDinner! enre!r!

Open Mon-Sun Open Mon-Sun or later 7am-7pm or later 1717 8, Cassville 17177am-7pm Rt.Rt. 8, Cassville Winter Hours: M-Th Winter Hours: M-Th 7-27-2 Friday 7am-8pm Friday 7am-8pm

FridayFish FishFryFry• Breakfast • BreakfastServed ServedAllAllDayDay Friday

2199Bleecker BleeckerSt.,St.,Utica Utica(315) (315)790-5250 790-5250 2199

Open 7 Days a Week: 6am-2pm, Sunday 7am-2pm Open 7 Days a Week: 6am-2pm, Sunday 7am-2pm

7-Noon FriFri 7-8,7-8, SatSat 7-1,7-1, SunSun 7-Noon

Breakfast BreakfastSandwiches Sandwiches Deli-Style Deli-StyleWraps/Sandwiches Wraps/Sandwiches Salads, Salads,Soups Soups&&more! more! Homemade HomemadeBaked BakedGoods Goods&& a kid’s Multi-Color Bagels favorite! Multi-Color Bagels - a kid’sfavorite!

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

(315) 790-5353 • Open 7 Days a Week (315) 790-5353 • Open 7 Days a Week

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

409Oriskany OriskanyBlvd., Blvd.,Whitesboro Whitesboro• •(315) (315)736-7869 736-7869 409 Catering& &Banquet BanquetFacilities FacilitiesAvailable Available• www.69steakhouse.com • www.69steakhouse.com Catering

“Weare areyour yourhome home “We townpizzeria!” pizzeria!” town Orderonline onlineor or Order onour ourapp! app! on Open7 Days 7 Daysa aWeek Week Open

Voted Voted #1Best Bestofof #1 theBest! Best! the

315-736-4549 315-736-4549

4462Commercial CommercialDr.Dr. 4462 www.tonyspizzeriaanddeli.com www.tonyspizzeriaanddeli.com

Serving Lunch & Dinner Lunches Served Friday & Saturday

87years years 87

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

Tuesday: All-U-Can-Eat Spaghetti Celebrating servingthe the 20 Years in Wednesday: $.99 Chickenserving Wings Business! Thursday: All-U-Can-Eat Chicken Riggies Valley! Mohawk Valley! Mohawk

Visitour our2 2locations: locations: • (315) 736-7869 Visit 409 Oriskany Blvd., Whitesboro

Catering &Blvd., Banquet Facilities Available • www.69steakhouse.com OriskanyBlvd., Yorkville Ilion Marina, 190Central CentralAve, Ave,Ilion Ilion Oriskany Yorkville • •Ilion Marina, 190

Contemporary ContemporaryAmerican American• Private • PrivateFunctions Functions• Reservations • ReservationsRecommended Recommended

900 900Culver CulverAve., Ave.,Utica Utica• 315-765-0271 • 315-765-0271• Open • OpenWed-Sat Wed-Sat4:30-8pm 4:30-8pm Visit Visitwww.willowsofutica.com www.willowsofutica.com

MV Eats

Lafa Mediterranean by Zeina’s 4666 Commercial Drive, New Hartford Elias Zeina opened Lafa with the idea of offering quick-service Mediterranean food that still feels fresh, thoughtful and full of flavor. It has become a great spot for people to stop in, build a meal their own way and enjoy food that is both satisfying and easy to feel good about. At Lafa, RoAnn and I went in two different directions, which is part of the fun here. There are plenty of ways to mix, match and make your meal exactly the way you like it. I started with the Santorini Salad but made it my own. I swapped the romaine for mixed greens, skipped the tomatoes, added broccoli and red cabbage, and chose the hot honey hummus instead of the classic. It made for a colorful plate with plenty of crunch, freshness and a little sweet heat from that hot honey hummus. RoAnn went for the saj wrap with lamb meatballs and loaded it up with broccoli, Kalamata olives, pickled cucumbers, crispy chickpeas, rice pilaf and marinated tomatoes, along with lemon herb tahini and tzatziki. She chose classic hummus on the side. Lafa has become one of those places where people can come together over a quick lunch or dinner without sacrificing freshness or flavor. And judging by our two very different orders, RoAnn and I clearly have our own ideas about how to build the perfect Mediterranean meal.

Phoenician Restaurant 623 French Road, New Hartford Phoenician is one of those places that has been part of my Mohawk Valley story from the beginning. I first went there not long after I moved here, and I’ve been going back ever since. There is always a warm welcome from the Karam family, and the food is consistently spot on. My go-to favorite is the chicken skewer over rice pilaf. By the time RoAnn and I arrived at Phoenician, we were on our third stop of the day, so pacing ourselves had become important. We decided to split my favorite and pair it with hummus and tabouli salad. The chicken is so tender it pulls right off the skewer. My perfect bite is a piece of that chicken wrapped in pita with a little rice pilaf and hummus. Simple, fresh and so good. After all these years, Phoenician is still one of those places I can count on for a warm welcome and a meal I know I’m going to enjoy. And even on our third lunch of the day, RoAnn and I managed to finish more than we planned.

One More Taste of the Mediterranean Our Mediterranean food tour may be coming to and operated small businesses that are at the an end, but there’s one more delicious reason to heart of our Mohawk Valley communities. keep exploring. The 2026 St. George Mediterranean The families welcoming us in, Symeon pulling Festival returns Saturday, Sept. 12, and Sunday, up a chair for lunch, RoAnn remembering meals Sept. 13 at 350 Higby Road in New Hartford. Layla once made for her, the new people we It’s a fitting finale to our tour and a chance to met along the way, and the easy conversations celebrate the food, traditions and flavors that that happened everywhere we stopped. These have become such a meaningful part of our are the things that make a food tour feel like region’s story. more than a list of restaurants.

52 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

Come hungry, and consider it one more stop on Mediterranean food has become such a your own Mediterranean food tour through the familiar part of the Mohawk Valley, but every Mohawk Valley. stop reminded us that behind those familiar dishes are family traditions, memories and By the end of this tour, RoAnn and I had eaten recipes that continue to bring people together. our way through more pita, hummus, kebabs, salads, rice, eggplant, baklava and Turkish And really, that is why RoAnn and I keep doing coffee than we probably should admit. But as these tours. always, the food was only part of the story. We may set out looking for a good meal, but we What stayed with me most were the people almost always come home with new friends, a behind it. So many of our stops are small owned few good stories and a reason to go back.

7686 Route 5, Clinton (315) 853-7300 www.knottybynature.com

• Mon-Fri: afe 133 Mill St.,needs. Rome, New York9-5, Sat: 9-4:30, Sun: ClosedNew Hartford esigned forwww.polishfoodutica.com your

315-337-8070

Tues-Fri: 10:30-5, Sat: 10:30-1:30

tive? Our fitness center is open daily from 5 AM – 10 PM, e environment for your health and wellness journey.

In-Store Inventory!

Open Mon -Sat: 10am-5pm www.ironwoodfurniturestore.com

PULASKIPrimitive Simply I T

B Wine Spirits Free Shipping Spring has Ilion R.A. Dudrak

PRATT MUNSON rty, oulevardCabinetry ealing with MLS Laser Therapy! FIRST-YEAR on, Horn’ s Family Farm for Every erapy and Fitness, we’re committed to providing cutting-edge EXHIBITION 8088railers Rt. 12, Barneveld Inc. you heal fasterPasture Budget! Beef That’s and Raised feel better. whyMay we offer Laser Truffles and18, Chocolate Covered Kitchen & Bath Cabinets Through 2025MLS “The King” Woodhull Rd., Forestport Strawberries for Mom!pain, 11821 asive, technology designed to reduce Hardwood Flooring & CountertopsSparkling Diamond Find the Farm Raised Pork Window or us! FDA-approved MEAT (315) 392-7072 Thu: 10-6, Fri & Sat: 8-8, SunMARKET & Mon: 10-6, Tue & Wed: closed Engagement Rings &perfect Bands gift for recoveryFree time. Range Whether Eggs (Chicken &you're Duck) recovering from an injury,

& Sprung!

FREE In-Home Polish Estimates Comerelief walk Homemade Foods Mom! condition, the Frozen MLS Chicken Laser delivers targeted to get you Ring Inspections Installation Available ...or let her Variety of Kielbasa • Cold Cuts Raulli’ s BLOOD & SPIT: Old-fashioned Donuts through our Munson Located at the Cleaning shop with a on all weathertech products for 315-822-0010 Pierogi • Golabki Photography by Carlie Sherry & Sarah Phyllis Smith 310your Genesee St., Utica Iron Works Local Products 10OtherEast St., Ilion • (315) 894-8142 Shoppes at theMain Finish Line In-store Repairs wer of advanced healing—schedule appointment today! Custom hand-made Route 5 , Sherrill 363-3131 garden of fabrics! cate! gift certifi iron railings, fences & gates. 315-797-0000 the month of june! perfect for dad! La-Z-Boy & Amish Corner Rte.Reception: 8 & 20, Bridgewater May 2 of - 31, May 2, 5-7pm, Talk: May 31, 1pm 16 College St., Clinton • 765-6463 315 733-7676 www.alisonsjewelry.net 68-0032 or visit performancetherapyandfitness.com Tues-Fri 10am-5pm, Open Mon-Sat: 9-9, Sun: 12-5 •Open All Tues-Fri credit10-5:30, cards accepted 9629 Main St., Remsen munson.art Sat 10-4, Sun-Mon Closed

Quality first!

941-7539 • Tues-Fri: Noon-6, 10-3 States, New York SatJohnsville, 10am-1pm, Closed SunUnited &Sat: Mon r St, Saint(315) NY, www.facebook.com/sosweetcandycafe

And no oneMENAGERIE: beats our prices! Mother’s Day, ANIMALS IN ART VINYL PATIO DOORS, Communion June 8, 2025Party, EXTERIOR,Through STEEL Graduation, AND STORMCollege DOORS Horn’s Family Farm VINYL REPLACEMENT Memorial Day AND CUSTOM

Pasture Raised Beef Truffles and Chocolate Covered Museum ofor Artsmall for us! Nothing is too big WINDOWSStrawberries for Mom! Farm Raised Pork BOW AND BAYWellin Hamilton College Free Range Eggs (Chicken &WEDuck) HAVE WINDOWS 198 FOR College Hill Rd., Clinton Frozen Chicken MOBILE HOMES 315-859-4396 hamilton.edu/wellin Old-fashioned Donuts Other Local Products FREE IN HOME ESTIMATES! 707 Bleecker Street, Utica, New 16 York College315-735-9712 St., Clinton • 765-6463 9629 Main St., Remsen

Caruso’s Pastry Shoppe

www.froassfurniture.com 1201 Lenox Ave., • (315) 732-8007 Cabinetry by Shiloh, www.raullis.com Showroom OpenUtica TuesThe 11-6, 4576 Middle Settlement Rd. Other Side Mon-Wed: 9-5:30 2 Oriskany Blvd., Whitesboro • (315) 736-5851 www.polishfoodutica.com • Mon-Fri: 9-5, Sat: 9-4:30, Sun: Closed Wed-Sat 11-4 or by appt. Aspect & Waypoint www.facebook.com/simprimitive • Open Wed-Sat 10-4, Sun 10-2 133 MillGenesee St., Rome, New Hartford 2011 St., New UticaYork • 315- 735-4825 • theothersideutica.org

made furniture Thurs & Fri: Sat: 9-5 www.boulevardtrailers.com • Mon-Wed: 9-6, Thurs: 9-5, Fri:9-8:30; 9-4, Sat: 9-1 315-337-8070 www.knottybynature.com

Tues-Fri: 10:30-5, Sat: 10:30-1:30

Hu B

Cof

STORIES UNTOLD: Nursery Open PULASKI s n o ti era Shopping... THE BOOK by Appointment 3 GenGift

Wine & Spirits

Serving the y! lle Mohawk Va

IlionWORLD REIMAGINED OF GOOD.

that does a

Only

May 24 - July 27, 2025

CLASSIC GARDENS

BUILDING11821 STONES Woodhull Rd., Forestport

392-7072 Thu: 10-6, & Sat: 8-8, Sun & Mon: 10-6, Tue & Wed: closed MEAT MARKET Complete Landscape(315) Services &Fri Nursery View

Old Forge• Walks and Patio Installation Homemade Polish Foods • Planting design & installation 315-369-6411 •Variety Spring and Fall • Walls and Water Gardens ofCleanup Kielbasa • Cold Cuts viewarts.org • Pruning, Edging, and Mulching • Mulch Delivery or Pick-Up Pierogi • Golabki Custom hand-made ironMowing railings, fences & gates. • Lawn Installation and Renovation • Lawn

Raulli’s 10 East Main St., Ilion • (315) Iron 894-8142 Works

H Sp

Open Mon-Sat: 9-9, Sun: 12-5 • All credit cards accepted From start to finish, 1201 Lenox Ave., Utica • (315) 732-8007 315-865-5517 Rte. 365, Holland Patent Having an art opening? Let us know for a free listing in our monthly guide! Email: mohawkvalleyliving@hotmail.com Making Call: 315-735-2206 One call does it all! Residential and Commercial Septic homes The Oldeand Mother’ s Day, Barney’s New Installation Repairs Looking for Communion Party, beautiful LIQUORS Spring has Angels KountryCollege Market Ilion Graduation, Horn’ s Family Farm Spring has for over JEFF’S & WINES Memorial Day ChildYourGod Care? Sprung! (315) 525-3330 100 years 2024 Sprung! AMISH & M Bless America Source for: Come walk You Veterans Garage and Come walk RECEIVEThank A tar Orchards Fine furniture through our Entry Doors made in the USA Caruso’ s Pastry Shoppe through our Market & Bakery Mon 7-2, Wed-Fri 7-2, Sat 7-2, Sun 7-Noon, Closed Tues Open Tues-Fri 10-5:30, Sat 10-4, Sun-Mon Closed (315) 941-7539 • Tues-Fri: Noon-6, Sat: 10-3

www.facebook.com/sosweetcandycafe Over 50 Years in Business at the Same Location!

www.raullis.com 47 Clinton Rd (Rt 12B) 133 Mill www.polishfoodutica.com • Mon-Fri: 9-5, Sat: 9-4:30, Sun: ClosedSt., Rome, New York New Hartford 315-337-8070

Wine Spirits

w MV Best of the Best Call 315-794-2624 to set up an appointment Garden Center 2024for a free estimate within 24 hours.

HOURS AND BY APPOINTMENT:

Thursdays 10:00am – 4:00pm 2nd Saturday of Every Month 10:00am – 4:00pm Every Saturday from Thanksgiving to Christmas

D O O R

& H A R D WA R E Farmers Market on Village Green

FIND A GIFT FOR EVERYONE IN THE FAMILY.

Dog Sitting & Daycare

HANDCRAFTED Pasture Raised Beef Truffles and Chocolate Covered 10:00am – 4:00pm Strawberries for Mom! Farm Raised See our website for Pork changes 4361 Acme Road, Ilion in hours due to exigent circumstances We Sell & Service Free Range Eggs (Chicken & Duck) • Home FURNITURE Hardwood Flooring, USE THE WILLIAMS STREET ENTRANCE Environment Frozen Chicken Laminate, We can customize any of our Clean & Safe • Old-fashioned Donuts Waterproof Flooring, Located at the Located at theof new pieces furniture! • Friendly Ceramic Tile, Carpeting Other Local Products Shoppes at the Finish Line garden of fabrics! Residential &Finish Commercial Shoppes at the and Area Rugs. Big dogs (315) 858-1010 • Line 1058 Route 28, Jordanville, 13361 •16Spacious College St., Clinton • 765-6463 of fabrics! buildingstonesshoppe.square.site Tues-Fri 10am-5pm, Open Mon-Sat: 9-9, Sun: 12-5garden • All credit cards accepted welcome too! 9629 Main St., Remsen

Nothing is too big or small for us! 1

Gift Boxes-Shipped! Homemade Pies OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! Bulk Foods & Spices Mon-Sat 9am-9pm, Sun 12pm-6pm Canned Goods, HALF & FULL315-735-9712 CASE DISCOUNTS 707 Bleecker Street, Utica, New York Mon-Tues & Thurs-Sat: 11am-4pm, Wed Closed Family owned and10am-5pm, operated for over 5010am-5pm, years! Tues-Fri •Sun: Daily FB videos Open Tues-Fri 10-5:30, Satclosed 10-4, Sun-Mon www.YanukExcavating.com (315) 941-7539 •Park Tues-Fri: Noon-6, Mon 7-2, Wed-Fri 7-2,Candies, Sat 7-2,Jams, Sun 7-Noon, Closed Tues 8 SouthBroad RowSt., Clinton, NY10-3 13323 facebook.com/buildingstonesshoppe www.jeffsamishfurniture.com Sat 10am-1pm, Closed Sun &&Sat: Mon 505 Utica www.facebook.com/sosweetcandycafe Sat 10am-1pm, Closed Sun Mon 2010 Oriskany St. West, Utica • (315) 733-0421 www.enjems.com 8231 State RouteDeli 12,Meats Barneveld (315) 896-4444 Facebook:•Barneys Angels Dog Sitters Open M-F 8-4:30 • (315) 735-5577 • www.jmdoor.net & Cheeses, Yogurt, Baked Goods, Nursery Open Family Monuments ns Mother’ s Day, Outdoor Furniture, by Appointment 3 Generatio e Mausoleums & Columbariums th g in Contractor Only rv e Communion Gifts & More! S k Valley! Granite Cleaning &Party, Repairs Prince-Boyd & Hyatt Horn’ s Family Farm Mohaw Cemetery Lettering Custom College Graduation, Home For Funerals, Inc. CLASSIC GARDENS Pre-Need PastureMemorials Raised Beef T Woodworking Memorial Day Home-like surroundings for your Farm Raised Pork Complete Landscape Services & Nursery convenience & comfort.and Softwoods • Kiln Dried Hardwoods Preplanning Provides Nothing is too big small for us!e use Free Range Eggsor(Chicken &b Duck) Try our Famous Sausage! Pre-arrangement Plans with o Peace of Mind t • Planting design & installation • Walks and Patio Installation •prey-payment Hardwoodorand Pine flooring t607-286-9201 Phone: Frozen oChicken Deli items • Beef • Steaks • Cheeses • Dry Goods no payment options. N www.wightmanspecialtywoods.com • Spring and Fall Cleanup • Walls and Water Gardens on all weathertech products Old-fashioned Donuts Catering Trays Made to Order •210 Mouldings • the Wall Coverings Court St. • Siding ofOther Your personal • Pruning, Edging, and Mulching •West Mulch Delivery or Pick-Up for month APRIL! MonLocal - Fri: 8:00am - 4:30pm Products an! Meatballs •&Lawn Rome •Mowing 336-1510 Sundays: Fried Dough! Installation and Renovation • Lawn Sat: 8:00am - 12:00pm HandymFried NowHandicapped Buying Hardwood Accessible 6505 Route 5,711Vernon, NYSt., 13476 (315) 829-3035 2 Oriskany Blvd.,Logs Whitesboro • (315) 736-5851 9629 Main St.,Highway Remsen Bleecker Utica 146 County 35a O 47 Clinton Rd (Rt 12B) (315) 941-7539 Tues-Fri: Noon-6, A quick solution your everyday problems! 707 Bleecker Street, Utica, New York www.boulevardtrailers.com • Mon-Wed: 9-6, Thurs:315-735-9712 9-5,• Fri: 9-4, Sat: 9-1 Sat: 10-3 Mon-Wed to 9-5, Thur-Fri 9-6, Sat 9-4 Follow us on facebook www.princeboydhyatt.com (315) 736-1781 Portlandville, NY 13834 (315) 765-6409 Open: Thurs & Fri: 9-4, Sat: 8-2, Sun: 8-Noon 8am-6pmINSURED • 315-853-1024 Wightman Specialty Woods 7-2, Sat 7-2, Sun 7-Noon, Closed Tues Mon 7-2, Wed-Fri New Hartford Gina Trzepacz-Timpano • CALL FOR• NorthStarOrchards.com A FREE ESTIMATE (315) 750-0903 FRANKFORT 1309 Champlin Ave., Yorkville Good Friends Good Times Good Wines

10 East Main St., Ilion • (315) 894-8142

REFERRAL LIST NOW!

F T O N O O oulevard R P Quality. Experience. © Inspiration.T railers Inc.

Bossone’s Sausage & Meat Co.

Utica’s Pork Store Edward Smith

Free Shipping Caruso’s Pastry Shoppe

Call: 315-735-2206

for seasonal updates!

Cover Story

ROOTED HERE: Family Farms of the Mohawk Valley By Carrie Byrne Putelo

I’ve known for months that I wanted to tell the story of our family farms in this issue of Mohawk Valley Living. What I wasn’t sure of was exactly how I wanted to tell it. Last year, we focused on one farming family and their story. This year, I wanted to pull the lens back and look at farming across our region, from dairy and produce farms to flower farms and orchards, and even hydroponic farming right in the heart of Utica’s Corn Hill neighborhood. I wanted to know how these families came to farming and what the land, the work and the farm itself mean to them. I wanted to understand what has changed from one generation to the next, what has tested them, what they’re most proud of and, perhaps most importantly, what keeps them going. What I didn’t expect to discover was just how connected they all are. There is a shared purpose among these farmers that goes far beyond what they grow, raise or produce. They are feeding our families, supporting one another and continuing a way of life that has shaped the Mohawk Valley for generations. When you walk into a place like North Star Orchards, where we photographed this month’s cover, you’re greeted by a beautiful farm market overflowing with colorful fruits and vegetables, fresh-baked goods and locally made products. It’s easy to admire it all and start filling your basket. What you don’t immediately see is everything it took to get there. The work begins long before

anything reaches the farm stand. There are fields to prepare, seeds to plant, animals to care for and crops to tend. There are early mornings and long days, equipment to maintain and problems to solve. There are seasons that cooperate and seasons that don’t. One unexpected frost, too much rain or not enough can change months of work almost overnight. And yet, they keep going. For some, that means carrying on what their parents and grandparents built. For others, farming is a path they found for themselves. Their operations have changed with new technology, new crops, new markets and new ways of reaching customers, but so much of what matters remains the same: hard work, resilience, family and a responsibility to leave something worth carrying forward. I was also struck by how often their stories intersect. One farm market may carry vegetables grown by another nearby farmer. A dairy operation may work with another farm to grow its herd. Locally made products travel from one farm stand to another. Farmers share knowledge, resources and, when needed, a helping hand. Each has its own specialty and story, but together they form a network that keeps more of what we eat grown, raised and produced right here in our region. That may be what stayed with me most while working on this issue. At a time when we hear so much about where our food comes from and

Cover Photography: Jessica Rotkiewicz, JMR VISUALS

how it is produced, there is something reassuring about meeting the people who are actually growing it. You can stand in their fields, walk through their barns, see their greenhouses and orchards, and begin to understand the care, uncertainty and commitment behind what eventually ends up on our tables. I also wanted to know what these farmers wish the rest of us understood about farming today and what they hope comes next. Their answers are different, just as their farms are different. But beneath them is something shared: pride in what they do, respect for those who came before them and hope that another generation will be willing to carry it forward. After spending time with these farmers, I have an even greater appreciation for what they do every day, not only for their own families and businesses, but for all of ours. This month, we’re taking you beyond the farm stand and into the fields, barns, orchards and greenhouses of the Mohawk Valley to meet some of the people helping feed our region and hear the stories behind the food we so often take for granted. I think you’ll look at that next basket of apples, gallon of milk or just-picked tomato a little differently. MohawkValleyLiving.com | 55

Cover Story

George Joseph & Family

NORTH STAR ORCHARDS

WESTMORELAND

North Star Orchards began with five vacant acres and an idea. George Joseph was attending SUNY Oswego when he worked at an orchard and discovered he liked the work. Back home in Clinton, his parents had five vacant acres across the road. “I really liked the work, and my parents had five vacant acres across the road, so I said, ‘Well, let’s put an orchard down.’ I planted my first orchard when I was in college.” After graduating, George went to Alaska, but kept coming home to care for his orchard. “I made a lot of mistakes and learned a lot of things.” Eventually, a farm became available, and George had saved enough to buy it. “We bought the farm and started it with a game plan. We had a plan. That’s how it started.” North Star began as a wagon on the corner. For about eight years, George developed the farm while living elsewhere and returning seasonally. “We built a business, and I think the benefit was that it gave the community ownership in what we were doing. Every year, people would ask, ‘What are you doing next?’ That became part of it.” George never wanted North Star to be just

56 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

another fruit stand. It became a farm market, embraced agritourism and grew into a multiseason operation. “We went from asparagus right through to Christmas trees. We became a multi-season farm and did things differently from others.” Today, it is easy to see the bustling market, bakery and seasonal offerings and forget where it began. “We started with a rundown old farm.” Building it meant figuring things out along the way. Weather, deer, freezes and drought remain constant challenges, but George sees solving those problems as part of what keeps farming interesting. “There are constant challenges when you’re growing crops, whether it’s weather, deer, freezes or drought. But I think that’s also what makes it intellectually interesting. You’re always figuring things out and finding ways to overcome those challenges.” There is also the uncertainty that comes with building a business. “As an entrepreneur, the biggest challenge is the uncertainty of success. It’s humbling. You have to grow with your successes.” That makes what North Star has become especially meaningful. Unlike many farms, it was not something George inherited. “When I look at what we’ve built, I would say I’m most proud of starting from nothing. It’s not a generational farm. We started with an idea.” Over time, that idea became something he believes can continue beyond his own family. “We took what may have been an unworkable farm and turned it into a business model that can be replicated long after we’re gone. Whether it’s my family or another family, we’ve built a model that works.” George has taken that thinking beyond North Star. Through his role as a County legislator, he helped start the Upstate Growers and Packers Co-op, bringing producers together from Schoharie to Buffalo. “The question is, how

does a small little farm like ours sell to Blue Apron, a national company? Because of those connections, we could create opportunities that a small farm couldn’t create alone.” North Star also gives families a way to experience agriculture as fewer children grow up around farms. “Over the generations, kids have lost some of that connection to what farms are really about. It used to be that you lived near a farmer, were related to a farmer, or you were a farmer. That doesn’t happen as much anymore.” For George, what North Star has become comes back to a simple philosophy. “I think the key to it is passion, perseverance, and nobody telling us we couldn’t do it.” And after starting a farm that was never generational, he would like to see it become one. “The next generation. Fortunately, I do have kids in it, and hopefully they’ll continue. I would especially like to see a third generation because that would show how sustainable what we built really is.” What began with five vacant acres, a rundown farm and a plan has become a business George believes can last. Seeing another generation carry it forward may be the best measure of what he built.

VISIT NORTH STAR ORCHARDS Address: 4741 NY-233, Westmoreland, NY 13490 Hours: Daily: 8am–6pm; seasonal operation runs mid-April through December 24. Farm Market Favorites: Farm-fresh seasonal produce, apple cider, aged cheeses and New York State products, plus scratch-made pies, half-moon cookies, muffins, breads and other treats from the in-house bakery. While You’re There: Depending on the season, pick your own blueberries, apples or pumpkins, cut your own tulips, explore the greenhouse or return during the holidays for Christmas trees and seasonal favorites.

James Paul

BLACQUE ACRES UTICA

Blacque Acres began with James Paul’s belief that fresh produce should be available yearround in the community he has spent much of his life serving. “This farm started as a thought that I could provide fresh produce to an underserved community, all year long. My love for the community and the youth and families that I’ve worked with over the past 25 years is what’s brought me to this work.” Blacque Acres is a nonprofit hydroponic farm in Utica’s Corn Hill neighborhood, providing fresh produce year-round while supporting youth and families through education and outreach. Unlike the fields and barns often associated with farming, James grows food right in the neighborhood he serves. “My farm is in the community that I serve. It’s hyperlocal and allows me to provide our produce with very little transportation or storage. Being active and visible in the community makes my community so much smaller. Our connection is organic.” The farm partners with Mosaic Health to provide food boxes through a prescription program. James also creates opportunities for young people through cooking classes, day trips and STEAM classes, using the farm as another way to reach youth and help address violence in the community. What people may not realize is that Blacque Acres operates around James’s fulltime career. “My typical workday starts with me going to my full-time job that pays the bills. I then go to the farm after work and the daily tasks there vary.” Those tasks include planting seeds, transplanting seed plugs into grow towers, harvesting, delivering produce and maintaining the farm. His family helps, but they have jobs of their own, too. “People don’t always see or understand that all the work put into the farm is done after the work day. I get help from my family, but they all work as well, so the farm is run on a part-time basis, in terms of hours. It’s designed that way.” Learning what grows best in a hydroponic environment has been one of James’s biggest challenges. “My greatest challenge has been figuring out what grows best in the farm and what I can do to get the best outcomes. I’ve started to work with consultants that have a much better understanding of hydroponic agriculture than I do.” But the response from the people around him has been one of the most rewarding parts of building Blacque Acres. “I am most proud of the willingness of my community to want to jump in and help. There are always people asking how they can volunteer or have we thought about partnering with this certain group, to help get the food out.” For James, the farm is another way to give back to the place that has given so much to him. “Doing this work in the Mohawk Valley

means that I’m giving back to a community that’s given me so many opportunities. Raising my family here has been a blessing and I hope that I can be a blessing to others.” Growing food where it is distributed also shapes how he thinks about the larger food system. “I wish that people could truly understand that buying local produce reduces travel time and the need for preservatives when it comes to distribution. The people that bring your food to you are members of the community and seek to be good neighbors and stewards of the community that they serve.” James hopes Blacque Acres can become self-sufficient, expand its footprint and eventually hire help. He is also thinking about what the work can teach the next generation. “I hope to pass on to the next generation a work ethic that helps them understand that this work is task based and not time based. Every day isn’t the same and there are times when you must work longer than you thought you would, but the job has to get done and you work through it.” It is a lesson James lives himself. “I started this farm with just a vision. My passion and dedica-

tion to the community allowed me to receive funding to start the farm with no capital of my own. That shows that there are great partners in this community that believe in helping their neighbors and this is just one of the ways that we do that.” In the middle of Corn Hill, James is growing more than food. He is building connections, creating opportunities for young people and finding another way to serve the place that led him to farming.

BLACQUE ACRES | CORNHILL HYDROPONICS Address: James Street, Cornhill, Utica, NY Growing Year-Round: Fresh greens, herbs and vegetables are grown 365 days a year using hydroponics inside a 40-foot shipping container. About: Founded by James Paul, this nonprofit urban farm works to provide fresh, affordable produce to the community while bringing innovative, sustainable agriculture to Utica’s Cornhill neighborhood. Support Local: Look for Blacque Acres during September’s Mohawk Valley Gives campaign. MohawkValleyLiving.com | 57

Cover Story

izing, irrigating, weeding, staking and constant monitoring for pests and blight. Months of work can be affected by one bad weather event, while fuel, fertilizer and seed costs continue to rise. “I still hear, ‘I remember when corn was a dollar a dozen.’ Prices have to reflect what it actually costs to grow food today.” Weather and workforce have been two of the farm’s biggest challenges. Shawna is also concerned about agricultural land being converted for other uses, including solar development. “We need that energy development, but not at agriculture’s expense.” What she is most proud of is continuing what her grandparents began. She sees that legacy in customers who first came with their parents and grandparents and now return with children and grandchildren of their own. She also sees it in Candella’s relationship with Hope House in Utica, where excess produce helps feed people who need it. For Shawna, farming is part of building a stronger region. “I never hesitate to look for ways to help build a better Mohawk Valley, and running this farm is very much part of that.” It is personal, too. “It means standing up for myself, so my daughters and the other young women I have watched grow into future leaders of this community know they can do the same, and never have to be afraid to say and do what is right.” She also wishes more people understood how much work happens before food reaches their kitchen. “I have a saying: every young person should have to work on a farm for a week — hauling hay, harvesting, sorting, picking.”

Shawna Papale

CANDELLA’S FARM & GREENHOUSES

MARCY

Candella’s Farm & Greenhouses has been part of Shawna Papale’s life since she was a child. The farm was started by her grandparents, Rose and Frank Candella, both immigrants who Shawna remembers as “two of the hardest-working people you could ever meet.” Her parents became the second generation, and today Shawna and her brother, Michael, are carrying the family farm forward.

For visitors, Candella’s may mean picking berries, walking through the greenhouse or filling a basket with fresh produce. Behind that experience is another side of farm life. Field work is critical, but much of Shawna’s day is spent on reporting, compliance, finances, hiring, marketing and customer expectations. After years working in economic development, she has brought those skills back to the farm.

“I learned work ethic as a child working alongside my grandparents, and that shaped who I am. One of my biggest regrets is that my own daughters never got to know them.”

There isn’t much of an off-season. Candella’s sells trees, wreaths, centerpieces and kissing balls through December. Winter brings paperwork and repairs, and the greenhouses reopen in March. Then there is the work behind the food itself. “I am still amazed by how many times we touch a single product.”

More than 120 years later, Candella’s remains a family farm, but it has continued to change with each generation. Its U-Pick operation has grown from strawberries to include blueberries and raspberries. During COVID, the family started its Harvest Box program, their version of a Community Supported Agriculture. Shawna’s daughters and other young people working on the farm took the lead, handling planning, operations and customer relationships. “Working together is what made the program succeed, and they all learned life skills along the way, from those first boxes during COVID to the many customers who still get their box weekly today.” 58 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

A tomato plant starts from seed in April. Before a tomato reaches a customer, there is seeding, greenhouse care, hardening off, planting, fertil-

VISIT CANDELLA’S FARM & GREENHOUSES Address: 9256 River Road, Marcy, NY 13403 Phone: (315) 736-8782 Hours: Mon–Fri: 9am–6pm | Sat–Sun: 9am–5pm Seasonal Favorites: Farm-fresh corn, cauliflower, cousa squash and cucumbers, plus tomatoes and hot or sweet peppers for canning and freezing. Shop fall mums, pumpkins and corn stalks as the season shifts into autumn.

That work ethic has carried into her own family. Her daughter Gabby graduated from law school, Sara graduated from Cornell, and her nephew Mikey earned a degree in respiratory therapy. Their paths may take them beyond the farm, but all three still help when needed. “Those paths were strengthened by the work ethic they gained at Candella’s Farm, and I know my grandparents and parents would be so proud of them.” Shawna would love to see Mikey take over the farm one day, but believes the decision must be his. “Coming from a farm background is something to be proud of no matter what path a person takes — we need CEOs and executives, but a farmer is just as important, and part of the fabric of our community.” More than 120 years after Rose and Frank Candella began the farm, another generation is carrying it forward, shaped by the same work ethic Shawna learned beside her grandparents.

not always see. Ben points to rising costs for fuel, seed, fertilizer, labor, electricity, twine and equipment repairs. Finding reliable labor has become one of his biggest concerns, leading the family to mechanize parts of its hay, firewood and other operations. He is also concerned about finding good, viable farmland without competing with neighboring farmers, particularly as land is considered for green energy projects. Even with those challenges, Ben’s outlook keeps coming back to family. He is proud of what he has built and confident in Christopher’s ability to carry it forward. Anderson has already taken an interest in farming, and Ben’s daughter-inlaw, Megan Goldstein, is part of the family effort too. “My wife and I are so blessed to have a daughter-in-law, Megan Goldstein, who not only helps me with my articles and understands Agriculture, but puts up with us.” Much of what the farm produces stays in the area, from firewood that heats homes to meat in family freezers and hay sold throughout the region. Ben has also seen more people wanting to know where their food comes from. “I do believe that in recent years there's been more of a push for the everyday person that wants to know where their food products come from, and I surely don't blame them one bit!” That connection is part of why Ben advocates for agriculture. He wishes more people understood just how dependent farming remains on the weather. “I do wish more people understood that we are at the mercy of Mother Nature on a daily basis.” Good weather often means longer days and making the most of conditions while they last. When the weather changes, the work simply changes with it.

Farmer Ben

BEN SIMONS Farming is the life Ben Simons has always known. He grew up on a small family farm in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, milking cows, making hay and harvesting wood for firewood. When he and his wife, Robin, came to New York in 1984, they worked on several rented farms before settling on Starr Hill Road. “When I first moved out here from New Hampshire, all I knew is I wanted to milk cows. The very thing I knew and loved.” Over the next 40 years, Ben and Robin built an operation that today includes six farms totaling 1,100 acres, along with another 600 acres they rent in Steuben, Remsen, Lee Center and Boonville. In 2024, Ben retired from dairy farming after four decades, but the work did not stop. The farm has expanded its beef, pork, hay, corn, soybean and firewood operations, with Ben’s son, Christopher, helping shape what comes next. “However, in recent years, I've let my son, Christopher take the helm and make our farm

more diversified. He's really passionate about this and it makes me grateful everyday.” A typical day still starts around 6 a.m. Christopher and Ben’s grandson, Anderson, arrive shortly after 7, and the three usually begin with a family meeting about the day ahead. They might make hay, work on firewood or repair equipment in the shop, but farming has a way of changing even the best-laid plans. “However, it's not too hard to get off kilter and have to re-adapt to the day's plans because it's constantly changing from what we had planned.” By evening, the family comes together for supper and to catch up on the day. Ben says retirement from dairy has hardly slowed him down. “Now that I've retired from the dairy farming, I found that I am just as busy if not more than before with all of my advocacy; through radio stations, social media, and the various newspaper articles, and also helping my son keep the farm running smoothly.” Behind those days are challenges people do

After growing up in New Hampshire, Ben has found something familiar in the Mohawk Valley. “The work that I do in the Mohawk Valley means to me the overwhelming feeling of the people are just like those in New Hampshire.” He values the relationships he has built here, along with the open farmland and views along Starr Hill Road. “And every morning that I look out my windows to see the views, I know I am a blessed man.” Some of Ben’s most meaningful memories connect the generations, including his father-inlaw coming from New Hampshire to work on the farm with Christopher. “A memory that sticks with me is when my father-in-law came out from New Hampshire to farm with my son, when he could, meant more to me then anything else.” When Ben came to New York, he wanted to milk cows. Forty years later, Christopher is helping carry the farm forward, with Anderson growing up alongside them. “Me and my wife's families have farmed for many generations, and I have no doubt that my family will for many more to come.” MohawkValleyLiving.com | 59

Cover Story

plan—and sometimes a backup plan for your backup plan!” For all the work and uncertainty behind the scenes, Tracey wants the experience for customers to feel easy. “We want all of the hard work behind the scenes to make their experience easy and enjoyable—the hardest decision they have to make is simply what color they want to take home.” What she is most proud of are the relationships that have grown along with the business. Families come for vegetable plants and flowers in spring, return for pumpkins in fall and come back at Christmas to choose their tree. “What I am most proud of is that our business makes people happy. We have created a place where people can come, slow down, enjoy the beauty around them, and make memories.” Doing this work in the Mohawk Valley has special meaning for Tracey. “This area has a strong agricultural history, and I’m proud to be a small part of carrying that tradition forward.” Casler Flower Farm mentors students from area schools and welcomes FFA chapters for tours and handson learning, along with garden clubs, women’s groups, 4-H groups and other organizations.

Tracey Casler

CASLER FLOWER FARM WEST WINFIELD

For Tracey Casler, agriculture has always been part of life. She grew up in a family with strong agricultural ties and was active in 4-H and FFA. After high school, Tracey earned a bachelor’s degree in horticulture from SUNY Cobleskill, completed an internship at Chester’s Flowers in Utica and later worked at Baker Greenhouses. After marrying and having children, she wanted to stay connected to horticulture while raising her family. “I wanted to find a way to continue working with plants and keep my hands in the soil while raising our family.” In 2001, Tracey began growing cut flowers and selling them from a roadside stand and at farmers markets. A gift shop followed in 2005, and in 2009, her father helped build the family’s first greenhouse, drawing on her parents’ own greenhouse experience. Today, Casler Flower Farm has evolved into a place where customers come to them. “We have worked hard to create a place where people come to us—a quiet country escape where customers can slow down, enjoy the surroundings, and spend the day.” Spring brings greenhouses filled with plants grown on the farm. Fall brings homegrown 60 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

pumpkins, mums, cornstalks and seasonal décor. At Christmas, there are local trees, handmade kissing balls, wreaths and fresh arrangements. “We have grown from a small roadside flower stand into a destination that is really about the experience as much as the products.” Creating that experience takes months of work customers rarely see. Although the spring season doesn’t open until May 1, growing begins at the end of February, with constant attention to furnaces, greenhouse temperatures and snow loads. Once the plants begin growing, there is always something to do, from spacing and cutting back to fertilizing, watering and monitoring for pests and disease. Before spring plants are finished selling, fall mums are already being planted. Then Christmas brings long days creating wreaths, kissing balls and fresh arrangements. “There really isn’t much of an ‘off-season’—one season simply flows into the next.” Weather remains one of the greatest challenges. An unexpected cold night can threaten months of work, while heavy snow can put the greenhouses at risk. Over the years, the family has adapted its greenhouses, heating systems, growing practices and crop planning. “We have also learned that you always need a backup

“We truly believe in investing in the next generation. Agriculture has given our family so much, and being able to share our knowledge and experiences with young people is one of the ways we can give back to the community that has supported us.” That next generation is already part of Tracey’s own family. Her husband is a dairy farmer, her son a crop farmer and her daughter an agricultural consultant. “Our entire family is involved in agriculture, and that is something I am incredibly proud of.” One memory captures what the farm has come to mean. During a terrible snowstorm, a family arrived to choose their Christmas tree because their children were home from college. “They told us that it wouldn’t be Christmas without a Casler Christmas tree.” For Tracey, that put years of work into perspective.

VISIT CASLER FLOWER FARM Address: 895 Babcock Hill Rd, West Winfield, NY 13491 Phone: (315) 822-5135 Season: September 1–Christmas Eve & May 1st ‘til sold out Hours: Wed–Mon: 9am–6pm | Closed Tuesdays Seasonal Favorites: Mums, pumpkins, local foods & country gifts, homemade wreaths, kissing balls and local Christmas trees.

Finding a dependable seasonal workforce has been another challenge in a small community with a shrinking labor force. The Mill has adapted by supplementing its American workforce with seasonal employees through the H-2B visa program, working alongside year-round and local seasonal staff. For Bill, the work is rewarded by the people who walk through the doors. “I am most proud of seeing our customers' expressions and the positive experiences they have when visiting the Mill. Many visitors have never seen cider being made before, and they are impressed that we can produce a superior product in much the same manner it has been done for generations. Being able to preserve that history while continuing to grow and improve the business is very rewarding.” Those visitors have also become part of the Mill’s connection to the region. “Our regional visitors are some of our best ambassadors. They are the people who champion what we do, bring their friends and families to visit, and spread the word about the Mill. We are fortunate to be part of a larger tourism community centered around Cooperstown and the Mohawk Valley, and the success of all of us is interconnected.”

Bill Michaels

FLY CREEK CIDER MILL

FLY CREEK

Fly Creek Cider Mill has been part of the landscape outside Cooperstown since 1856. For Bill Michaels, carrying that history forward is both a family legacy and a responsibility. Bill’s parents purchased the property in the early 1960s. He began his career in hospitality before returning to Fly Creek in 1999 to purchase the Mill from them. “It gave me the opportunity to bring my hospitality background home and continue something that had already become an important part of our family and the community.” Since then, the Mill has evolved from primarily a fall operation into an eight-month destination, opening around Mother’s Day and continuing until just before Christmas. A major renovation in 2016 modernized the building and brought cider production directly into the retail experience. The product line, foodservice offerings and farm winery portfolio have also grown, while preserving the historic character

generations of visitors remember. Bill remains a hands-on owner, overseeing cider production, marketing and financial operations while working closely with the management team. “There is a tremendous amount of behindthe-scenes work required to have the Mill ready for our visitors every day. Keeping things fresh, new and clean is a huge undertaking that I don't think many people realize when they visit.” Part of that work is balancing the Mill’s history with the realities of operating today. Cider is still produced using equipment dating back to the late 1800s, but everything must meet modern standards for quality and food safety. “Historic authenticity is something we pride ourselves on. We want people to experience cider being made in much the same way it has been for generations while meeting all of today's standards for quality and food safety.”

Bill wishes more people understood that same connection when it comes to the food they buy. “I wish more people understood how much work, risk and commitment are behind the food and products they enjoy. Whether it is an apple grower, a cider maker, a small food producer or a family-owned business, there are real people behind those products who care deeply about their quality. Buying locally and visiting places where food is actually produced gives people a much greater appreciation for that connection.” With a history that began long before the Michaels family arrived, Bill thinks of the future in terms of stewardship. His children have careers and interests of their own, and he doesn’t know who will eventually carry the Mill forward. “More importantly, I hope that whoever eventually becomes the next steward of the Mill has the passion, patience and resilience to continue growing the operation while respecting what makes it special. The Mill has been operating since 1856, long before my family became involved, and my hope is that it remains a thriving business and destination for generations to come.” Nearly 170 years after the Mill was built, much has changed. What Bill hopes to preserve is the experience generations of families have made part of their own traditions.

VISIT FLY CREEK CIDER MILL & ORCHARD Address: 288 Goose Street, Fly Creek, NY 13337 Hours: Daily: 9am-6pm through December 20th celebrating it's 170th season. Mill Favorites: Fresh-pressed sweet cider, Mill-aged extra-sharp New York cheddar, Mill-made fudge and specialty foods, along with apple wines and hard ciders made from New York State apples. While You’re There: Take a complimentary self-guided tour to see the historic cider-making process, explore the Mill Store Marketplace and Tasting Room, and spend some time along the Millpond Boardwalk. MohawkValleyLiving.com | 61

Cover Story

ment, buildings and infrastructure require significant investment, and for Suzie and Peter, one of their greatest challenges has been managing growth. “The old adage is true: they don’t call them growing ‘pains’ for nothing!” Suzie’s previous career as a grant and proposal writer has helped them secure grants for upgrades. Even as the business has grown, they have kept it small enough to remain directly involved. “I am super proud that we’ve built a name and reputation for delicious, quality farm products. There are no shortcuts here, but rather dedicating oneself to showing up—day after day—and simply doing the work.” They have also built it as a family. Their eldest daughter, Harper, is taking on more responsibility in the cheese plant and with the animals while experimenting with “fun & funky cheeses.” Now in their mid-50s, Suzie and Peter are thinking about retirement in another 10 years and how to set the next generation up for success. For a family that came to the Mohawk Valley from somewhere else, the relationships they found here have become an important part of the story. “We were welcomed with open arms by our neighbors and helped at every turn. We’ve also found ‘our people’—customers, stores, and restaurants that love what we do. We’ve found a home here in the Mohawk Valley and we’re incredibly fortunate!” Suzie sees those relationships as inseparable from farming. “How are we NOT connected to the people and communities around us?!? While we believe the quality of our products speak for themselves, it is the personal relationships that carry us forward.”

Suzie Jones

JONES FAMILY FARM HERKIMER

More than 20 years ago, Suzie Jones and her husband, Peter, were living just outside Boston, doing, as Suzie puts it, “very un-farm-y things,” when they decided to make a big change. Both originally from Wisconsin, Peter grew up working on neighbors’ farms, while Suzie grew up visiting her uncle’s butcher shop. They moved to the Mohawk Valley and began raising the things they enjoyed. “As it turns out, lots of other people enjoyed what we were raising, too!” That beginning grew into Jones Family Farm, although getting from there to here has involved plenty of change. “I feel like we’ve gone through about a million changes.” Suzie and Peter first raised chickens, then goats. Encouragement from neighbors, customers and restaurateurs led them to try goat cheese and cream cheese and eventually expand into chicken sausage and gelato. Along the way, they built partnerships with the Bagel Grove, Tailor & the Cook and Nola’s. New York State distributors and programs such as New York Food for New York Families have helped get their products into food hubs, universities, restaurants and retailers across the state. 62 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

On the farm, every day begins with feeding and watering the animals. What comes next can change by the hour. Some days are dedicated to cheesemaking, others to processing chickens in their 5A slaughterhouse or making deliveries. “Folks may be surprised at the number of hats we have to wear as farmers—and how quickly we sometimes have to change those hats. One minute I may be creating invoices in QuickBooks and the next will have me in the barn helping a pregnant ewe give birth.” What people may not see is the investment behind making a farm like theirs work. “I’m quite certain that most people don’t understand or even see the scale of investment that goes into making cheese or farming in general.” Equip-

VISIT THE JONES FAMILY FARM Address: 753 Caldwell Rd, Herkimer, NY Hours: Daily: 10am–6pm through September Farm Store Favorites: Artisan goat, sheep and cow cheeses, including chèvre and feta, plus farm-fresh eggs, pastured poultry and small-batch gelato and sorbet. While You’re There: Take in scenic Mohawk Valley views and peek through the viewing window into the farm’s processing areas.

She also wishes people understood how their food choices ripple through the larger agricultural economy. Productive farmland supports feed and seed dealers, equipment sellers and repairmen, banks and veterinarians, helping maintain the network farms depend on. “If we could all dedicate a small portion of our weekly budget to supporting local, that money would stay in our communities.” After more than two decades, Suzie and Peter have built more than a place to raise animals and make cheese. They have built a family business and found a home in the Mohawk Valley, supported by relationships that have carried them through all those “million changes.” Perhaps Suzie says it most simply: “Supporting local NOW means having it around for when we need it most.”

Cover Story

FARM FRESH DESTINATIONS

Orchards, farm markets and family farms across the region After meeting some of the families behind our region’s farms, we wanted to keep the story going by showing you a few more places where you can experience that connection for yourself. Across the Mohawk Valley, family farms, orchards and farm markets offer everything from fresh-picked produce and local meats to cider, baked goods, flowers and seasonal experiences. Some have been part of their communities for generations, while others are creating new traditions of their own. These are places worth the drive, where you can shop local, enjoy the season and bring a little piece of the farm home with you.

BARBER’S FARM

Address: 3617 NY-30, Middleburgh Phone: (518) 827-5454 Hours: Mon-Sun: 9am-5:30pm Description: Six-generation family farm dating back to 1857, offering highquality fruits, vegetables, dairy, spring bedding plants, herbs and more through its farm market and satellite markets. Website: www.barbersfarm.com Collin's Farm and Creamery

BELLINGER’S ORCHARD

Address: 685 Argersinger Road, Fultonville Phone: (518) 922-8558 Hours: Wed-Sun: 9am-5pm Description: Fruit orchard and pumpkin farm offering apples and other fruits, seasonal pumpkin picking and fall harvest activities. Website: bellingersorchard.com

COLD SPRING FARM

Address: 4933 NY-145, Cobleskill Phone: (518) 231-1624 Hours: Mon-Sun: 9am-6pm Description: Family-owned produce and greenhouse farm growing fresh vegetables, fruits, flowers and plants, with a farm stand offering produce, local products and seasonal goods. Website: facebook.com/ coldspringfarmny

COLLIN’S FARM AND CREAMERY

Address: 8744 Thomas Road, Rome Phone: (315) 723-2735 Hours: Mon-Sun 7am-7:30pm Description: Family-owned dairy farm and creamery producing fresh milk, cheese curds and other farm products available through its on-farm store. Website: collinsfarmandcreamery.com

CONBEER’S FARM

Address: 1807 Hickory Hill Road, Fonda Phone: (518) 853-1454 Hours: Mon-Sat: 8am-6pm Description: Local produce farm and farm market offering fresh seasonal agricultural products and farmgrown goods for the community. Website: facebook.com/p/ Conbeers-Farm-100068429815051 64 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

CULLEN PUMPKIN FARM

Address: 587 Cullen Rd., Richfield Springs Phone: (315) 867-3878 Hours: Mon-Fri: 12pm-6pm | Sat-Sun: 10am-6pm Description: Pumpkin and fall harvest farm growing pumpkins, gourds, squash and sweet corn for seasonal picking and purchase. Website: cullenpumpkinfarm.com

DREAM WEAVER FARM

Bellinger’s Orchard

THE FARMSTEAD MARKET

Address: 3588 NY-28, Milford Phone: (607) 663-5590 Hours: Open 24/7 Description: Self-service farm stand offering farm-fresh beef, chicken, eggs, milk, seasonal produce and sweet corn, along with a variety of locally made pantry goods. Website: facebook.com/profile. php?id=61578364552281

Address: 650 Allen Lake Road, Richfield Springs Phone: (315) 717-5254 Hours: Mon-Sun: 8am-8pm Description: Family livestock and produce farm raising naturally grown beef and sheep while growing vegetables, grains, hay and other farm products. Website: facebook.com/ dreamweaverfarmny

FLOWERHEAD FARM

DYGERT FARMS

FREEDOM FARM MARKET

Address: 243 Dygert Road, Palatine Bridge Phone: (518) 495-4887 Hours: Open 24/7 Description: 13th-generation family dairy farm located in the Mohawk Valley in Palatine Bridge, NY. Website: facebook.com/dygertfarms

EMPTY POCKETS RANCH LLC Address: 5172 NY-145, Cobleskill Phone: (607) 766-5381 Hours: Mon-Sun: 10am-6pm Description: Family-owned farm offering locally produced goods, including sheep milk soaps, eggs and take-and-bake pot pies, along with seasonal U-PICK sunflowers and pumpkins. Website: emptypocketsranch.com

Address: 928 County Route 35, Maryland Phone: (607) 447-4064 Hours: Fri-Sun: 9am-8pm Description: Family-owned flower farm growing unique varieties of fresh-cut flowers and offering seasonal bouquets, flower shares and flowers for local customers. Website: flowerhead.farm Address: 4826 State Route 5, Vernon Phone: (315) 829-4880 Hours: Tue-Fri: 9am-5:30pm | Sat: 9am-3pm | Sun: 9am-2pm Description: Seasonal farm market offering annuals, perennials, shrubs, fruit trees, vegetable plants and produce, along with locally made gifts, Christmas wreaths and Christmas trees. Website: facebook.com/ freedomfarmmarketvernon Cullen Pumpkin Farm

Cover Story

Windy Hill Orchard & Farm Market

FARM FRESH DESTINATIONS HU-HILL FARM STORE

Address: 232 Lighthall Road, Fort Plain Phone: (518) 993-4337 Hours: Open 24/7 Description: Multigenerational family farm store specializing in quality food and animals, with all products certified organic. Website: facebook.com/HuHillFarmStore

HUGHES FARM

Address: State Route 12B, Deansboro Phone: (315) 796-2994 Hours: Mon-Sat: 9am-6pm | Sun: 9am-4pm Description: Family-owned produce and flower farm offering seasonal fruits and vegetables, flowers, plants, pumpkins, raw honey, maple syrup and other locally grown products. Website: facebook.com/p/HughesFarms-Deansboro-NY-100048482387371

THE JOHNSON'S FAMILY FARM

Address: 132 N Main St, Northville Phone: (518) 863-3262 Hours: Mon-Wed: 8am-4pm | Thu-Sat: 8am-5pm | Sun: 8am-4pm Description: Family farm store and café offering local produce, homemade soups, juices and smoothies, sandwiches, bakery and deli items, and products from more than 40 local producers. Website: facebook.com/ feedtheworldgoodfoodandmusic

JULIANO FARMS

Address: 2365 State Route 5, Utica Phone: (315) 735-9385 Hours: Mon-Sat: 7:30am-6pm | Sun: 7:30am-4pm Description: Farmers' market offering fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods and flowers, along with a deli and seating. Website: facebook.com/ JulianoFarmsLLC

LAKEVIEW ORCHARD

Address: 5605 State Route 30, Schoharie Phone: (518) 295-7139 Hours: Mon-Sun: 9am-4pm Description: Family farm and market growing vegetables and offering fresh produce, local products, gifts, baked goods and greenhouse plants through The Carrot Barn. Website: schoharievalleyfarms.com

Address: 133 County Hwy 123, Mayfield Phone: (518) 613-4070 Hours: Fri-Sun: 9am-4pm Description: Orchard and fruit farm offering U-PICK apples, berries and other fruits, seasonal vegetables, fresh cider, baked goods and farm market products. Website: facebook.com/ lakeview.orchard.2025

TASSLEBERRY FARMS

ROGERS FAMILY ORCHARD

Address: 729 Snells Bush Rd, Little Falls Phone: (315) 601-8016 Hours: Not yet announced Description: Fifth-generation dairy farm dating back to 1867, raising dairy cows and growing corn, hay and peas across 1,000 acres, with a seasonal fall corn maze and more. Website: facebook.com/profile. php?id=100091685094856

Address: 260 Co Rd 131, Johnstown Phone: (518) 762-8736 Hours: Mon-Sun: 10am-5pm Description: Third-generation family orchard offering apples, blueberries, sweet corn, pumpkins and other seasonal produce, along with U-PICK apples, fresh cider and a farm store. Website: facebook.com/ RogersFamilyOrchard

SAVICKI’S FARM

Rogers Family Orchard

SCHOHARIE VALLEY FARMS/ THE CARROT BARN

Address: 3295 State Route 12, Clinton Phone: (315) 765-6858 Hours: Mon-Sat: 9am-6pm | Sun: 10am-5pm Description: Local vegetable and produce farm market offering fresh-grown vegetables and a variety of seasonal produce. Website: savickisfarmmarket.com

66 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

Address: 4879 Stop 7 Road, Whitesboro Phone: (315) 829-5378 Hours: Open 24/7 Description: Self-service farm stand stocked with seasonal produce, where customers can purchase what they need and leave payment in the box. Website: facebook.com/swistakfarm

TIMMERMAN FARMS

WEST END FARM

Address: 110 West End Rd, Herkimer Phone: (315) 985-3845 Hours: Mon-Sun: 9am-7pm Description: Farm offering seasonal vegetables and melons, including pumpkins, peppers, tomatoes, lettuce, cucumbers, squash, corn, cauliflower and broccoli, along with pork, chicken, turkey and eggs. Website: westendfresh.com

WILL’S CACKLEBERRY CASTLE PUMPKIN FARM

Address: 1175 Hillsboro Road, Camden Phone: (315) 245-0104 Hours: Seasonal hours TBA Description: Seasonal pumpkin and fall activity farm offering pumpkins and family-friendly fall attractions, including hayrides and corn mazes. Website: facebook.com/ willscackleberrycastle

WINDECKER FARM

Address: 656 Minots Corner Rd, Schuyler Phone: (315) 335-2408 Hours: Thu-Fri: 4pm-8pm | Sat: 10am-4pm | Sun: 10am3pm | Mon-Wed: Closed Description: Fourth-generation family farm tending 550 acres in the Mohawk Valley, raising dairy and beef herds, growing hay and offering locally raised beef and farm-fresh milk. Website: windeckerfarm.com

WINDY HILL ORCHARD & FARM MARKET

Address: 577 East Street, Cassville Phone: (315) 822-0046 Hours: Mon-Fri: 10am-5pm | Sat-Sun: 9am-5pm Description: Family-owned U-Pick orchard in Cassville offering fresh apples, beautiful scenery and a place for families to enjoy seasonal traditions together. Website: facebook.com/ WindyHillOrchardWEST

Will's Cackleberry Castle Pumpkin Farm

Bellinger’s

Orchard , LLC. Pick Your Own & Ready Picked Apples

Open daily 9-5

Over 50 Varieties of Apples Throughout the Growing Season, Homemade Apple Cider Donuts, Cheese, Honey, Maple Syrup and other local gourmet NYS Products!

685 Argersinger Rd, Fultonville 518-922-8558 www.bellingersorchard.com

Cover Story

ROADSIDE HARVEST A guide to farm stands around the Mohawk Valley CLARK MILLS FARM STAND

Address: 8725 Clark Mills Rd., Whitesboro Hours: Open daily, 8am–8pm Description: More than a traditional produce stand, Clark Mills Farm Stand brings together an ever-changing mix of home-produced and handmade goods. Stop for fresh free-range eggs, spring seedlings and houseplants, then browse seasonal crafts and décor, apparel, jewelry, home goods, novelties and toys. There’s even a free library. The stand is also the creator of the CNY Farmstands Facebook group, helping connect shoppers with farm stands throughout Central New York. Website: ClarkMillsFarmStand.com Facebook: Clark Mills Farm Stand

From honor-system stands tucked along country roads to small family-run setups stocked with whatever is freshest that day, these are the kinds of places you may pass without even knowing they’re there. Expect seasonal produce, eggs, flowers, baked goods, honey and other locally made finds, often sold just steps from where they were grown or made.

HUGHES FARMS

Address: Route 12B, Deansboro Hours: Monday–Saturday, 9am–6pm Sunday, 9am–3pm Description: The selection at Hughes Farms changes with the seasons, which is part of the fun of stopping by. Depending on the time of year, you might find farm-grown vegetables and fruits, sweet corn, berries, peaches, melons, pumpkins and winter squash. The stand also carries flowers, bedding plants, hanging baskets, herbs, free-range eggs, local raw Clark Mills Farm Stand

KUHL FAMILY FARM

Address: 175 Stroupe Rd., Ilion Hours: Saturday–Monday, Wednesday & Thursday, 8am–7pm Closed Tuesday & Friday Description: At Kuhl Family Farm, you’ll find baked goods alongside seasonal produce grown without chemicals, garlic and raw honey. One of the stand’s specialties is potato flake sourdough bread, made with locally sourced organic wheat berries freshly milled in-house. Facebook: Kuhl Family Farm

Brookview Farm Market

68 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

Hughes Farms

for the table, Brookview Farm Market offers eggs, tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce and florals. Facebook: Brookview Farm

SHILOH HOMESTEAD FARMSTAND

Address: 8265 Clark Mills Rd., Whitesboro Description: A stop for farmfresh staples and a little color

Address: 2604 Gridley Paige Rd., Deansboro Hours: Open daily, self-serve Description: This small hobby farm has an especially sweet story behind its roadside stand. Shiloh Homestead Farmstand is a homeschool project for the family’s daughters, giving them a hands-on way to learn while sharing what the farm produces. Look for organic sourdough bread and baked goodies, farmfresh free-range eggs, honey and seasonal fruits and vegetables. Facebook: Shiloh Homestead

Kuhl Family Farm

Shiloh Homestead Farmstand

honey, maple syrup, jams and jellies, jarred goods, sweet cream butter, Collins Creamery products and more. Fall brings pumpkins, gourds, hay bales and cornstalks, along with plenty of reasons for a return trip. Facebook: Hughes Farms - Deansboro NY

BROOKVIEW FARM MARKET

Pumpkin P umpkin S Season eason Is Back! Ba k! Is

Petal & Bloom is a beautifully restored historic farmhouse in Rome, NY that’s made for meaningful getaways. THE PERFECT ESCAPE FOR Family Getaways Weddings & Celebrations Retreats & Reunions Friends & Cozy Getaways

52 52 Genesee Genesee St. St. New Hartford, NY 13413

New Hartford, N 13413

315.624.0130 315.624.0130 calabriacoffee.com calabriacoffee.com

BOOK YOUR STAY TODAY in Rome, NY Historic Charm. Modern Comfort. Timeless Memories.

Cover Story

Woodshill Homestead

ROOTED & RAISED

Address: 11370 Bell Hill Rd., Deerfield Hours: Always open Description: Flowers and fresh-picked produce share the spotlight at Rooted & Raised. The stand offers seasonal vegetables and fruit, flowers and cut bouquets, hanging baskets, garlic and honey. As summer gives way to fall, look for mums and pumpkins, too. Facebook: Rooted & Raised

HOPE HOLLOW BAKERY STAND

Address: Corner of Sleepy Hollow Rd. & Holmes Rd., Rome Hours: Fridays, 11am–6pm Saturdays may be added this fall. Description: A roadside stop for anyone who believes a country drive is better with something freshly baked waiting at the end. Hope Hollow Bakery Stand is a small-batch artisan bakery offering scratch-made cookies, scones, muffins, artisan

breads and handcrafted preserves. Inspired by French country charm and a love of genuine hospitality, Hope Hollow brings a bakery experience to a quiet roadside corner in Rome. Facebook: Hope Hollow Bakery Stand

WHEN YOU KNOW, YOU KNOW

Address: 13 Thomas Drive, Rome Hours: Open daily, 8am–8pm Fresh-cut flowers are the specialty here, joined by herbs and market bags. It’s a simple stop for a bouquet to bring home, give to a friend or brighten the table. Facebook: WYKYKGarden

PICK FARM SWEET CORN & VERGA VEGETABLES

Address: 7108 W. South St., Westmoreland Additional produce tent: 6991 W. South St. Hours: Self-serve Description: For more than 50 years, sweet corn has been a summer tradition

at Pick Farm. The family has been growing and selling it since 1970, with corn picked fresh daily and sold right in front of their dairy farm. Find sweet corn at the farm stand at 7108 W. South St., or head a little farther up the road to the larger tent at 6991 W. South St. for more corn and a changing selection of fresh-picked produce, including tomatoes, lettuce, peppers, eggplant, cantaloupe and cucumbers. Both locations are self-serve, making it easy to stop whenever you’re passing through. Facebook: PickFarmSweetCorn

WOODSHILL HOMESTEAD

Address: 9743 Sessions Road, Sauquoit Hours: Always open Description: Woodshill Homestead is a colorful stop for flowers and seasonal farm favorites. Right now, visitors can cut their own blooms from a mix that includes zinnias, cosmos, sunflowers, snapdragons, celosia, bachelor buttons and yarrow.

Little Family Farm Stand When, You Know, You Know,

Pick Farm Sweet Corn and Verga Vegetables

Hope Hollow Bakery Stand

70 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

Rooted & Raised

The stand is also offering garlic, with pumpkins joining the lineup this fall. Instagram: @woodshillfarmstead

LITTLE FAMILY FARM STAND Address: 6164 Trenton Road, Utica Hours: Always open, self-serve Little Family Farm Stand makes it easy to stop for locally grown produce and seasonal favorites whenever you’re passing by. Along with fresh produce, the self-serve stand offers a selection of shelf-stable goods from area producers, including local honey, maple syrup, salsa, jams and pickled items. Come fall, look for pumpkins joining the mix, too. Facebook: Little Family Farm Stand

TAKE THE BACK ROADS Farm stand season is a good excuse to skip the quickest route home. Bring a little cash, keep an empty market bag in the car and watch for roadside signs. What’s available can change from one week, or one morning, to the next. That’s the beauty of buying with the season. And when you find a stand you love, tell someone about it. These small stops are part of the landscape of Central New York, connecting the people who grow, bake and make here with the neighbors who appreciate what they do. Please note: Farm stand hours, seasonal offerings and availability may change. Check individual Facebook pages before making a special trip. For more farm stands throughout Central New York, visit the CNY Farmstands group on Facebook at facebook. com/groups/cnyfarmstands.

Fall Arts Preview

FALL ARTS PREVIEW Museums, Music, Theater and Creativity Across the Mohawk Valley By Carrie Byrne Putelo

There is something about fall that makes us want to wander. Cooler air, changing leaves and shorter days invite us to slow down and spend an afternoon exploring. While summer belongs to outdoor festivals and concerts on the lawn, autumn draws us toward the museums, galleries, theaters and performance halls that help tell the story of the Mohawk Valley. Across the region, new exhibitions, concerts, theater productions and special programs offer plenty of reasons to get out and explore. From major cultural institutions to smaller galleries and performance spaces, fall is a wonderful time to discover just how much creativity is close to home.

Where Every Visit Can Be Different Few places bring together as many art forms under one roof as Munson in Utica. A visit might begin in the galleries, continue with a concert and end with an independent film or a live broadcast from the Metropolitan Opera. This fall brings a final opportunity to experience Watercolor Stories: Art of Charles E. Burchfield, along with the annual Pratt Munson Faculty Show. Keyboard Conversations® returns with performances that combine music and storytelling, while The Met: Live in HD brings Metropolitan Opera productions to Utica. October welcomes a new Pratt Munson Gallery exhibition featuring Patrick Brennan, Linda Sormin and Stephanie McMahon, followed by Munson After Dark for Halloween. With exhibitions, music, film and special programs filling the calendar, there is always another reason to return.

A Fall Tradition in Cooperstown Autumn seems especially at home in Cooperstown, where Fenimore Art Museum and Fenimore Farm offer two very different ways to spend a fall day. At Fenimore Art Museum, visitors have one last chance to see The Linda McCartney Retrospective: From the Light before it closes in early September. The museum's collections span American folk and fine art, photography and American Indian art, while changing exhibitions offer something new with each visit. In October, Art in the Dark invites guests to explore the galleries by lantern and ultraviolet light. Across the road, Fenimore Farm celebrates New York's agricultural heritage through hands-on history and seasonal traditions. Harvest Festival, Blacksmith Weekend and Tractor Fest bring demonstrations, music, crafts and family activities to the grounds. As Halloween approaches, Things That Go Bump in the Night leads visitors through the village by lantern light for an evening of ghost stories, folklore and local legends. Together, the museum and farm make Cooperstown an easy destination for a full day of art, history and fall tradition. Pictured from top: Fenimore Farm Tractor Fest, Keyboard Conversations® at Munson Museum of Art, Happy Little Beech-Nuts At Arkell Museum, Things That Go Bump in the Night at Fenimore Farm 72 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

COMMUNITY ARTS Classes for adults, teens, and kids

Take a class this fall!

Lisa Berardino, Serenity, acrylic, 2026.

JEWELRY

FASHION + FIBER PAINTING

INTRO TO JEWELRY MAKING With Luke Towne | Beginners Mondays, 6–9 p.m. Sept. 14–Nov. 9 (no class Oct. 12)

FASHION SEWING With Niki English | Intermediate Tuesdays, 6–9 p.m. Sept. 14–Dec. 14

INTERMEDIATE PAINTING With Joe Murphy | Intermediate Mondays, 6–9 p.m. Sept. 14–Dec. 7

Cost: $255, Member: $245

Cost: $275, Member: $255

Cost: $300, Member: $285

CERAMICS

MINI-COURSE SIT & KNIT FOR INTERMEDIATE With Rebecca Robbins | Intermediate Thursdays, 6–9 p.m. Oct. 29–Dec. 9

VISIBLE STUDIO MUNSON MUSEUM MASTER COPIES With Yulia Levkovich | Intermediate Wednesdays, 1–4 p.m. Sept. 16–Dec. 2

MINI-COURSE SALT FIRED CERAMICS With Veronica Byun | Intermediate Session 1: Wednesdays, 6–9 p.m. Sept. 16–Oct. 21 Session 2: Wednesdays, 6–9 p.m. Nov. 4–Dec. 9 Cost: $300, Member: $275, Materials Fee: $40

BEGINNING POTTERY With Veronica Byun | Beginners Wednesdays, 9 a.m.–noon Sept. 14–Dec. 7

Cost: $85, Member: $75

Cost: $300, Member: $285

SEWING STUDIO Niki English | Intermediate Tuesdays, 6–9 p.m. Sept. 15–Dec. 8

ILLUSTRATION

Cost: $295, Member: $265,

Cost: $380, Member: $260, Materials Fee: $40

Class may be observed by the public while working in the Museum of Art galleries.

#INKTOBER WORKSHOP PEN AND INK DRAWING WITH RETRO SORRENTO With Maria Vallese | All Levels Saturday, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Oct. 24 Cost: $85, Member: $70

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

KIDS AND TEEN CLASSES Saturday morning art classes are available for kids ages 4 to 18 with two sessions: OPTION 1: Sept. 19–Oct. 24 OPTION 2: Nov. 7–Dec. 12

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

Fall Arts Preview Looking Through a Different Lens At Hamilton College, the Wellin Museum of Art opens the exhibition Storytelling: Photographers Making Meaning | Works from the Wellin Museum's Collection, exploring how photographers use images, sequencing, text, and presentation to create narrative. Drawn from the museum's collection, the exhibition includes work by Eve Arnold, Rhona Bitner, Danny Lyon, Mike Mandel, Wright Morris, Bill Owens, Gordon Parks, Milton Rogovin, Keisha Scarville, Lorna Simpson, and Garry Winogrand. The Wellin Museum of Art is free and open to the public. Nearby, Wellin Hall brings another dimension to a fall visit with Hamilton College's Performing Arts Series. This season includes Ruckus: The Scottish Corelli, featuring Keir GoGwilt, the New York Classical Players and Seraph Brass. Together, the museum and performance hall make Clinton a destination for both visual art and live music this fall.

Art Across the Valley The region's creative energy extends well beyond its largest institutions. View Arts Center in Old Forge brings together watercolor, printmaking and plein air work, while the Arkell Museum in Canajoharie explores both American art and regional history. Closer to home, the Rome Art and Community Center, Mohawk Valley Center for the Arts, Sculpture Space, The Other Side Gallery and Kirkland Art Center continue to support artists through exhibitions, classes and special programs. Cooperstown Art Association and Earlville Opera House add even more opportunities to see new work and connect with artists throughout the fall. Together, these museums, galleries and arts organizations help make creativity part of everyday life across the Mohawk Valley.

Earlville Opera House

Curtain Up Fall also marks the return of live performance. Broadway Utica opens its season at the Stanley Theatre with the Tony Award-winning musical The Wiz, while Hamilton College's Performing Arts Series brings music to Wellin Hall. Ilion Little Theatre, Players of Utica, Earlville Opera House and other regional organizations round out the season with theater, concerts and community productions. There is something special about experiencing a performance together, when the lights dim and an audience settles in to share the same story.

A Season of Discovery One of the joys of living in the Mohawk Valley is knowing there is always something more to discover. A new exhibition, a concert, a play or a gallery you've driven past but never stepped inside. Fall offers a perfect reason to explore. Take the scenic route. Spend an afternoon in a museum. Listen to live music. Visit a gallery or support a community theater.

The Met: Live in HD: Macbeth

Some of the season's most memorable moments may happen beneath colorful trees. Others are waiting inside the museums, theaters, galleries and historic places that continue to share the stories and creativity of the Mohawk Valley.

FEATURED

MUNSON MUSEUM OF ART (310 Genesee St., Utica) A Season of Art, Music & Film

Every visit to Munson offers something different. This fall, visitors have a final opportunity to experience Watercolor Stories: Art of Charles E. Burchfield before it closes Sept. 13, then enjoy a season filled with live music, opera, gallery exhibitions and special events. Keyboard Conversations® returns with two engaging performances, The Met: Live in HD brings world-class opera to the big screen, and a new exhibition featuring Patrick Brennan, Linda Sormin and Stephanie McMahon opens in the Pratt Munson Gallery. The season concludes with Munson After Dark, transforming the museum into one of the area's most anticipated Halloween celebrations. Whether you're discovering an exhibition, attending a concert or spending an afternoon with friends, Munson offers countless reasons to return throughout the season. 74 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

The Met: Live in HD: Così fan tutte

FEATURED

Fall Arts Preview SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER

ARTS GUIDE WELLIN MUSEUM OF ART

MUNSON MUSEUM OF ART

Storytelling: Photographers Making Meaning

Watercolor Stories: Art of Charles E. Burchfield (1)

When: Sept. 12, 2026 - June 12, 2027 (see website for museum hours) Where: Wellin Museum of Art, Hamilton College, Clinton

Youth & Family Programs

When: Sept.1, Oct. 9 and Nov. 11 Where: Wellin Museum of Art, Hamilton College, Clinton

When: Through Sept. 13 (see website for museum hours) Where: Munson Museum of Art, 310 Genesee St., Utica

Winterizing Your Garden

When: Friday, Sept. 11, 11:00am - noon Where: Pribble Room, Munson, 310 Genesee St., Utica

Keyboard Conversations®: Virtuoso Variations

HAMILTON COLLEGE MUSIC Fall Faculty Concert

When: Friday, Sept. 4, 7:30pm Where: Hamilton College, Clinton

Ruckus: The Scottish Corelli, featuring Keir GoGwilt When: Friday, Sept. 11, 7:30pm Where: Hamilton College, Clinton

When: Saturday, Sept. 12, 7:30pm Where: Sinnott Family-Bank of Utica Auditorium, Munson

Munson Book Club: Whistler

When: Tuesday, Sept. 15, 6:00pm Where: Art Research Library, Munson

The Met: Live in HD: Twenty Years of the Met in Cinemas

New York Classical Players

When: Friday, Sept. 18, 7:30pm Where: Hamilton College, Clinton

When: Saturday, Sept. 19, 1:00pm Where: Sinnott Family-Bank of Utica Auditorium, Munson

Renee Heitmann, voice with Sar-Shalom Strong, piano

The Met: Live in HD: Così fan tutte

When: Saturday, Sept. 19, 7:30pm Where: Hamilton College, Clinton

Family Weekend Department of Music Concert When: Saturday, Sept. 26, 7:30pm Where: Hamilton College, Clinton

Homecoming Jazz

When: Friday, Oct. 2, 9:00pm Where: Fillius Events Barn, Hamilton College, Clinton

Seraph Brass

When: Saturday, Oct. 10, 7:30pm Where: Hamilton College, Clinton

Jazz Festival Concert

When: Friday, Oct. 23, 7:30pm Where: Hamilton College, Clinton

When: Saturday, Oct. 3, 1:00pm Where: Sinnott Family-Bank of Utica Auditorium, Munson

The Met: Live in HD: Macbeth

When: Saturday, Oct. 17, 1:00pm Where: Sinnott Family-Bank of Utica Auditorium, Munson

Keyboard Conversations®: The Romantic Music of Brahms When: Saturday, Oct. 24, 2:00pm Where: Sinnott Family-Bank of Utica Auditorium, Munson

Munson After Dark: Halloween (2)

76 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

Pratt Munson Faculty Show (3)

When: Through Oct. 4 Where: Pratt Munson Gallery, 310 Genesee St., Utica

Patrick Brennan, Linda Sormin & Stephanie McMahon

When: Opening reception Friday, Oct. 16, 3:00 - 5:00pm Where: Pratt Munson Gallery

FENIMORE ART MUSEUM The Linda McCartney Retrospective: From the Light (4)

When: Through Sept. 7 Where: Fenimore Art Museum, 5798 State Hwy 80, Cooperstown

Opening of the Masterworks Gallery

When: Sept. 26 Where: Fenimore Art Museum

Janet Munro: Portraits of Fall

When: Opens Sept. 26 Where: Fenimore Art Museum

Capturing a Masterpiece Photography Contest When: Submissions accepted through Nov. 2 Where: Fenimore Art Museum

Art in the Dark Tours

When: Saturday, Oct. 31, 9:00pm - midnight Where: Root Court, Munson

PRATT MUNSON GALLERY

When: Oct. 21, 22, 28 & 29, tours at 6:30 and 7:30pm Where: Fenimore Art Museum

WELLIN MUSEUM OF ART

Storytelling: Photographers Making Meaning | Works from the Wellin Museum's Collection On View: Sept. 12, 2026 June 12, 2027 Tues–Sat, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Closed Sunday and Monday Where: Wellin Museum of Art, Hamilton College, Clinton Photography has the power to capture a single moment, but it can also tell a much larger story. This fall, the Wellin Museum of Art presents Storytelling: Photographers Making Meaning | Works from the Wellin Museum's Collection, an exhibition exploring how photographers build narrative through images, series, and text. By combining photographs with sequencing, scale and presentation, the exhibition reveals how meaning can deepen, shift and even challenge what we think we see. Info: hamilton.edu/wellin 4

celebrate Fall AT F E N I M O R E FA R M

2026

Fall Events

Blacksmit

h Weekend

HARVEST FESTIVAL Sept 12-13 llage Scarecrow viTi me a on Once Up

BLACKSMITH WEEKEND Sept 26-27 SCARECROW VILLAGE Sept 26 - Nov 1 TRACTOR FEST Oct 10-11 THINGS THAT GO BUMP IN THE NIGHT Oct 10, 16, 17, 23, 24 & 30 TRICK OR TREAT AT THE FARM Oct 24

Harvest Festival

SCAN FOR TICKETS FENIMOREFARM.ORG Hours: September 14 – November 1 Tuesday – Sunday, 10AM - 4PM Closed Mondays COOPERSTOWN, NY

Fall Arts Preview SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER

ARTS GUIDE FENIMORE FARM Harvest Festival

When: Sept. 12-13, 10:00am - 5:00pm Where: Fenimore Farm, 5775 State Highway 80, Cooperstown

Blacksmith Weekend When: Sept. 26-27, 10:00am - 5:00pm Where: Fenimore Farm

Scarecrow Village

When: Sept. 26 - Nov. 1 Where: Fenimore Farm

Tractor Fest

When: Oct. 10-11, 10:00am - 5:00pm Where: Fenimore Farm

Things That Go Bump in the Night Tours

When: Oct. 16, 17, 23, 24 & 30 (multiple tours nightly) Where: Fenimore Farm

COOPERSTOWN ART ASSOCIATION Fine Arts on the Lawn (1) When: Sept. 5-6, 10:00am - 4:00pm Where: Cooperstown Art Association

Made in New York: A Fine Craft Invitational

When: Through Sept. 25, Tuesday Saturday 11:00am - 4:00pm Where: Cooperstown Art Association

... continued

THE OTHER SIDE GALLERY

ARKELL MUSEUM

Definitions: Sculpture/Mixed Media by Ben Garlington (2)

When: Through Dec. 30 Where: Arkell Museum, 2 Erie Blvd., Canajoharie

When: Sept. 4-26 Where: The Other Side Gallery, 2011 Genesee St., Utica Opening Reception: Friday, Sept. 4, 5:00 - 7:00pm Artist's Talk: Saturday, Sept. 26, 1:00pm Gallery hours: Thursdays & Saturdays, noon - 2:00pm

VIEW ARTS CENTER 17th Annual Plein Air Paint Out & Auction When: Sept. 3-5 Where: View Arts Center

45th Annual Adirondacks National Exhibition of American Watercolors (3) When: Through Sept. 27 Where: View Arts Center, 3273 Route 28, Old Forge

A Legacy in Print: ANEAW Posters Throughout the Years When: Through Sept. 27 Where: View Arts Center

Happy Little Beech-Nuts

Arkell's Inspiration: Art for the People

When: Through Dec. 30 Where: Arkell Museum, 2 Erie Blvd., Canajoharie

ILION LITTLE THEATRE When: Sept. 18 - 27 Where: Ilion Little Theatre, Ilion

Misery (Special Add-On Production) When: Oct. 23 - 25 Where: Ilion Little Theatre, Ilion

WORTH THE DRIVE

EARLVILLE OPERA HOUSE

Shadowplay by Christopher Swift & Alexandros Skouras When: Oct. 3 - Nov. 7 Where: East Gallery, Earlville Opera House

Take a Walk on the Wild Side by Bill Baburchak When: Oct. 3 - Nov. 7 Where: West Gallery, Earlville Opera House

Lily Pond Paint & Sip (4)

Landfall by John Paul Gardner

When: Oct. 3 - Dec. 12 Where: Arts Café, Earlville Opera House

ALSO EXPLORE Mohawk Valley Center for the Arts (Little Falls), Players of Utica (Utica), Sculpture Space (Utica)

FEATURED

FENIMORE ART MUSEUM & FENIMORE FARM Celebrate Fall in Cooperstown

Autumn comes alive at Fenimore with two destinations offering unforgettable seasonal experiences. Catch the final days of The Linda McCartney Retrospective: From the Light before it closes Sept. 7, then experience a full calendar of fall traditions at Fenimore Farm. Harvest Festival, Blacksmith Weekend and Tractor Fest celebrate New York's agricultural heritage with demonstrations, music, crafts and family activities, while October evenings bring lantern-lit adventures during Art in the Dark and Things That Go Bump in the Night tours. From remarkable art to hands-on history and seasonal traditions, Fenimore offers some of the Mohawk Valley's most memorable ways to experience autumn. 78 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

Blithe Spirit (5)

ROME ART AND COMMUNITY CENTER When: Sept. 9, 6:00 - 8:00pm Where: Rome Art and Community Center, 308 W. Bloomfield St., Rome

Blacksmith Weekend

Roof Replacing? R oof Needs Needs Re placing? CALL THE ROOFING KING TODAY! TODAY!

ROOFING ROYALTY… SAVING$ ALL YEAR RO N ARE A AITING YO ! ROOFING ROYALTY… SAVING$ ALL YEAR ROUND ARE AWAITING YOU! Complete Roof Replacement Roof Inspections Roofing Repair

ROOFINGKing (315) 269-3519 ROOFINGKINGUSA.COM

Turn Your Backyard Into a Destination Latham: Available at Geraty Pools & Spa Experience the difference: • Custom Inground Pool Design • Expert Installation and Project Management • Advanced Water Care Systems • Energy Efficient Pool Technology • The Brand You Can Trust Visit Geraty Pools & Spa - Schedule Your Pool Consultation Today! Geraty Pools & Spa 234 South Caroline Street Herkimer, NY 13350 Call (315) 866-4030 geratypools.com

VINYL • ALUMINUM • CHAIN LINK • WOOD

Central Central New New York’s York’s premier premier Central Central New New York’s York’s premier premier fence fence installation company! fence installation company! fenceinstallation installation company! company!

ayyrr afo a afoTTrrEEaa!! to fo fo atollllddto a Cto ayyddQ a O O CCaallllC U U Q E E E E T T O !! QUUO F RRFFEERREE EEQ F WWW.BANDKFENCING.COM WWW.BANDKFENCING.COM WWW.BANDKFENCING.COM WWW.BANDKFENCING.COM

Exclusive This Month: Enjoy $500 Off Any Full Yard Installation Scan the Scan the QR QR for for photos photos and and reviews! reviews!

Scan the Scan the QR QR for for photos photos and and reviews! reviews!

MV Style

The Worthy Edit FALL 2026

By Jen Bailey

As the curator and owner of Worthy, the trusted luxury resale boutique here in the Mohawk Valley, I love finding beautiful pieces, giving them a second life, and making them feel fresh again. Here’s what I’m loving for Fall 2026: rich colors, classic patterns, great denim, cozy textures, and a few elevated statement pieces.

Rich Color & Classic Patterns Dark brown is having a major moment! From chocolate to espresso, it’s sophisticated, versatile, and incredibly simple to wear. If you have a cooler complexion, try espresso; warmer skin tones can lean into chocolate. My favorite way to incorporate this trend? Accessories. A dark brown handbag, boot, belt, or flat can transform an outfit without a closet overhaul. Pair your brown pieces with cream, butter yellow, soft pink, blues, or greens. And don’t forget burgundy. A burgundy bag or pair of flats is such an easy way to add the perfect splash of fall color. For patterns, plaid and stripes are leading the way. Layer plaid under a sweater, let it peek out from a jacket, or add it with a cozy scarf. Stripes are a forever classic: easy, flattering, and wearable all year long.

The Power of Good Denim I will always believe in the power of great denim. Forget about chasing one “perfect” silhouette and wear what makes you feel amazing. Bootcut, baggy, barrel-leg, or wide-leg, you have options! Dark denim is especially chic this fall. I also love denim jackets, overalls, and the classic denim dress styled with a tall boot. It’s effortless and polished.

Suede Season If there’s one texture that instantly makes an outfit feel luxe, it’s suede. A fabulous suede boot, handbag, or shoe adds warmth and texture without trying too hard. One of my favorite combinations is a suede jacket paired with dark denim. It always works and always looks so good! A friendly reminder: protect those beautiful suede pieces with a water-protectant spray. You can easily find one online or at your local big-box store.

A Little More Sparkle: Desert Diamonds I went straight to the experts when researching Fall jewelry trends, and what I found is the perfect detail for any outfit. Desert Diamonds, available at Steve Lennon & Co Jewelers (23 Genesee St. New Hartford) offer a beautiful alternative to traditional diamond tones. These natural diamonds range from soft cream and warm champagne to deep amber and rich whisky shades. I love how naturally they complement this year’s earthy fall color palette. They’re warm, unique, sophisticated, and proof that your jewelry can have a little personality! 80 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

The Finishing Touch: Structured Blazers & Coats Finally, structured blazers and tailored coats are a must. They’re my go-to when an outfit needs that little something extra. Throw an oversized blazer over denim for an effortless everyday look, or layer a tailored coat over a sweater dress for instant polish. These are the pieces that can pull an entire outfit together and make you feel ready for any occasion. At Worthy, I love helping women feel confident without having to start completely over. Sometimes all it takes is the right color, a great accessory, the perfect denim, or one fabulous coat to make your wardrobe feel brand new. Trust Worthy to help you find it!

LOSE LOSE WEIGHT WEIGHT FOR THE FOR THE

LAST

TIME!

F I T B O DY B O O TCA M P.C O M (315) 725-3789 | (315) 941-5791

whitesborofitbody@gmail.com | clintonfbbc@gmail.com

MV Style

FALL 2026 BEAUTY: Make It Your Own I have always believed beauty and style are most powerful when they help us feel confident in who we already are.

nicate comfortably with others. To this day, I receive messages from former students saying, “thank you for helping me like myself.”

I owned and operated Joanne’s Fashion Charm Modeling School in the ‘80s and 90’s, teaching girls ages 3 to 18 etiquette, self-improvement, confidence and modeling techniques. We met on Saturdays at the Sheraton Hotel in Downtown Utica, today the Delta Marriott.

The message was always the same: trends can be fun, but they should never wear you.

I have fond memories watching young ladies develop their mindset to shape their self-image far more than their physical traits. They learned to stand tall, walk with confidence, care for themselves and commu-

Joanne Fanelli

For fall 2026, beauty is moving in a softer, more polished direction. Hair has warmth and dimension. Skin is healthy and radiant. Makeup feels lighter, enhancing rather than hiding. The best beauty choices are the ones that still feel like you. We asked three Mohawk Valley beauty experts to share what they’re seeing this fall.

Amanda Stewart

By Joanne Donaruma Wade

Caitlin Hilts

Owner, Joanne Fanelli Salon

FNP-BC, Owner Luxx Glo Beauty Bar

Makeup Artist, Makeup by Caitlin Hilts

A Fresh Look for Fall

Healthy Skin Is the Goal

As we approach fall, I always feel like clients are ready for a fresh look, and it’s exciting to mix current trends with what works for the individual.

Hydrated, radiant skin is about skin health, not just adding moisture. When we talk about that “glow,” we’re looking at hydration, a healthy skin barrier, even tone, collagen quality and the skin’s ability to retain moisture. Beautiful skin is built through consistency.

Makeup That Still Looks Like You

This year, once again, there’s a rebirth of the bob, from mid-length to short. The overall silhouette has more fullness and bounce than in years past, with soft, intentional layering. Color is shifting, too, with spicy dimensional browns and blondes that are softer and more golden. Brunette is anything but one-dimensional. From rich chocolate and warm caramel to cool espresso and softer ash tones, there’s a brunette for almost everyone. Darker tones can make the eyes pop and bring life back to most skin tones, as long as the color isn’t too flat or too dark. For someone who wants an update without a dramatic change, face-framing or a short- to mid-length fringe can give a quick lift. Summer can be harsh on hair, so I like peptides, clarifying shampoos, and pigmented shampoos and conditioners. To add volume and dimension to mid-length and longer styles, I love texturizing sprays and powders that give the hair a thicker feel. Reach Joanne Fanelli Salon at 315-732-5529. 82 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

I recommend starting with a medical-grade skincare routine tailored to your skin, daily SPF and ingredients that support collagen and cell turnover. Treatments such as radiofrequency microneedling, biostimulators and other regenerative therapies can help improve the quality of the skin from within. Fall is one of my favorite times for skin rejuvenation. Neuromodulators like Botox remain popular for softening expression lines and maintaining a refreshed appearance without looking overdone. Instead of asking, “What can I inject?” I ask, “What does this face actually need?” For women in their 40s, 50s and beyond, invest in skin quality and collagen first. Hormonal changes can affect hydration, elasticity, collagen and even how skin responds to treatments. Don’t abandon SPF because summer is over. UV exposure is a year-round issue. You don’t necessarily need more treatment. You need the right treatment plan for where you are now. Reach Amanda Stewart at luxxglobeautybar.com or 315-316-0014.

I think we are seeing a huge shift toward enhancing rather than covering! The really matte, full-coverage makeup that was popular for years is being replaced with fresh, skin-like finishes where you can still see someone’s natural skin and freckles underneath. Cream and liquid products, soft glowy cheeks, slightly fluffed brows, and more natural lashes are really popular right now. Over my almost nine years of experience in bridal makeup, my clients have always wanted to feel glamorous, but now more than ever, they want to look like themselves—just elevated. It’s less about completely transforming the face and more about strategically enhancing someone’s favorite features! For metallic eyes, I love using a soft champagne gold shimmer just on the lid or inner corner. It catches the light and makes the eyes pop without feeling like “too much” for everyday wear. Fall is one of my favorite seasons for makeup because I love all of the warm, rich tones—chocolate browns, bronze, copper, terracotta, plum and burgundy. If I could recommend one product to update your makeup bag this season, it would be the Saie Glowy Super Gel. Follow Catilin on Instagram or Facebook @makeupbycaitlinhilts

SCREEN

FREE SATURDAY At the

Utica

ZOO

September 26th

FREE ENTRY

12PM TO 2PM BROUGHT TO YOU BY

CHILD CARE COUNCIL Of Cornell Cooperative Extension

MV Fit By Lisa Briggs

BUILDING STRENGTH in September

Why getting stronger matters more than you might think September always feels like a reset. The kids are back in school, summer schedules start settling down, and we begin getting back into more of a routine. It is also a really good time to think about strength.

Photo Credit: Erin Covey

And I do not just mean how much weight you can lift. For women especially, strength training becomes more important as we get older. We naturally begin losing muscle as early as our 30s, and over time, that can affect everything from balance and bone health to energy and how easily we move through everyday life.

I also want them to notice that strength showing up in everyday life. Maybe the stairs feel easier, you can carry something you used to need help with, or you simply feel more confident moving your body.

That is why I tell women all the time not to be afraid to lift weights.

Strong muscles support strong bones

I still hear women say they do not want to strength train because they are worried about getting bulky. But lifting weights is not about becoming a bodybuilder. It is about building and maintaining the strength your body needs to support you through life. Think about the things you do every day. Carrying groceries into the house, picking up your kids or grandkids, climbing stairs, getting up from the floor, moving something around the house, working in the yard, or lifting your suitcase when you travel. Those things may not feel like exercise, but that is exactly the kind of movement we are preparing our bodies for when we strength train.

Muscle matters as we age As we get older, maintaining muscle becomes something we have to be more intentional about. The good news is that you can build strength at any age, and you do not need to spend hours in the gym to make a difference. A few consistent strength workouts each week can go a long way. Squats, rows, presses, lunges, carries and other functional movements help train your body for the things you ask it to do outside of the gym. At Fit Body Boot Camp, we focus a lot on functional strength for that reason. Of course I want people to leave a workout feeling stronger, but 84 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

Those are the changes that matter.

For women, bone health is another important reason to strength train. As we age, especially through and after menopause, taking care of our bones becomes even more important. Weight-bearing exercise and resistance training are both ways we can help support bone strength over time. Strength also plays a big role in balance and stability. Strong legs, hips and core help us move with more control and stay steady on our feet. We might not think much about fall prevention when we are younger, but the strength and balance we build now can help us stay active and independent later. That is one of the things I love most about strength training. You are not just exercising for today. You are building a stronger body for the years ahead.

Stop making the scale the only goal A lot of women start exercising because they want to change how they look, and there is nothing wrong with wanting to feel good in your clothes. But I also want women to notice everything else they are gaining along the way. Maybe the scale has not changed much, but you are using heavier dumbbells. Maybe you can do a push-up you could not do before, your balance is better, or you have more energy at the end of the day. You may notice

that something that used to feel difficult suddenly feels easier. That is progress too. There is a confidence that comes from realizing your body is capable of more than you thought. When you begin focusing on what your body can do instead of only what it looks like, your whole mindset can start to change.

Start where you are If you have never strength trained before, you do not need to walk into a gym and know exactly what to do. You also do not need to lift the heaviest weights in the room. Start where you are. Learn good form, choose a weight that challenges you while still allowing you to move safely, and build from there. As you get stronger, you can gradually increase the resistance. Most importantly, stay consistent. September is a great time to begin because so many of us are already getting back into routines. Make strength training part of yours. Do it for your muscles, your bones, your balance and your independence. Do it so the things you love to do stay easier for as long as possible. And yes, do it because feeling strong feels really good.

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

WWW.HBEGROUP.COM

Insurance...We Can Help DOLGEVILLE • 315-429-3181

HERKIMER • 315-866-3140

REBUILD STRENGTH AND MOVE WITH CONFIDENCE

Our focus is helping you recover, rebuild strength, and return to the activities you enjoy PT , our team most. Led by Jerry Bushey, PT, provides personalized physical therapy for sports injuries, orthopedic conditions, and post-surgical recovery. Therapy , a nonWe also offer MLS Laser Therapy, invasive, FDA-approved treatment designed to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and accelerate healing.

Recover faster. Move better. Get back to doing what you love. Looking to stay active? Our fitness center is open daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., offering a supportive space for your health and wellness journey. Our Location 30 Center St Saint Johnsville

Scan For information

MV Harvest

Caramelized Leek Galette If you're looking for a reason to stand over the stove, stewing leeks is a pretty good one. You’ll be rewarded with a heavenly smell as they cook down in a bath of butter, cream, and wine, seasoned with thyme and mustard. Lest that sound overly rich, each of those ingredients is used with restraint, so the sweet freshness of the leeks doesn’t get lost. It’ll be hard to believe while cooking, but they taste even better than they smell. A vegetable galette is my go-to for most special occasion dinners, since they look impressive, can serve a crowd, and are adaptable to the season. Don't let the pastry intimidate you; a food processor makes the dough very forgiving. Just make sure to chill it properly before By NAT LEVIN you roll it out. Local Foods Mohawk Valley

Ingredients:

Directions:

For the crust: (adapted from Smitten Kitchen and the Zuni Cafe)

In the bowl of a food processor, combine the flours and salt and pulse five times to combine. Add the cold butter and pulse until the butter breaks down to nickel-sized pieces. Add the yogurt and 3 tablespoons of the cold water. Pulse until the dough begins to hold together and the butter is the size of small peas. All the flour should be incorporated. If it looks too dry, sprinkle in water by the tablespoon until the dough holds together.

• 1 cup / 120 grams all-purpose flour • 1/4 cup / 27 grams rye flour • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt • 1/4 cup / 60 grams yogurt • 4 tablespoons / 60 ml cold water • 8 tablespoons / 113 grams cold unsalted butter, sliced into tablespoons and chilled in the freezer for at least an hour if you remember! For the filling: • 4 leeks, thinly sliced into rounds • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter • 1/3 cup white wine • 1/3 cup half and half or heavy cream • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (sub 1 teaspoon dried thyme) • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt • 3/4 - 1 cup / 3-4 oz ounces sharp cheddar, grated on the large holes of a box grater

Scrape the dough into a ball, gathering any stray bits. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour, or 30 minutes in the freezer. The dough can be made up to two days in advance. Before starting on the filling, preheat the oven to 400. Clean the leeks carefully - they are often sandy. Trim the root and peel off the thicker outer layers of skin. Rinse directly under the faucet, then slice the white and light green part into rounds, reserving the tough green upper part for stock. If there is still visible grit or sand, agitate in a bowl of cold water, changing water as needed, until the leeks look clean. Melt the butter in a Dutch oven or other heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the mustard, thyme, and salt and whisk until the mustard has dissolved. Add the leeks, wine, and cream. Stir a few times to distribute the leeks around the pan, then cover and cook over low-medium heat for 15 - 20 minutes, until the

leeks are very soft. Remove the lid, turn the heat up to medium, and cook until the liquid has evaporated from the pan and the leeks are beginning to brown in spots. They will continue to color in the oven. While the leeks are cooking, remove the dough from the fridge. On a lightly floured counter, roll the dough into a roughly 8” by 12” rectangle. Fold each short end toward the center, then roll out again into another rectangle. Repeat the folds two times. After the last fold, roll out into a rectangle approximately 10” x 15”. Rough, uneven edges are fine. Make sure the counter is floured enough so that the dough doesn’t stick. Carefully transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate while the leeks finish cooking. When you’re ready to assemble, scatter most of the grated cheddar over the dough, reserving a small handful of cheese to scatter on top. Spread the cheese all the way to the edges, then spoon out the leek filling, leaving a 2” gap between the edge and the filling. Fold the edges of the dough towards the center, so they cradle the filling, pinching the corners to keep them in place. Bake at 400 for 30 - 40 minutes, until the crust is goldenbrown and the top has begun begun to color. Check after 30 minutes if your oven tends to run hot. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Serves 4 as a main course or 8 as an hors d’oeuvre.

Local Foods Mohawk Valley is an online local food collective offering the Mohawk Valley the best local food year-round via a virtual store. Customers shop online from over fifteen local vendors Wednesday–Sunday and pick up on Tuesday at the St. Mary’s Preschool in Clinton between 5:00–6:30pm. www.localfoodsmohawkvalley.com 86 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

oh, nt

ered

2! 63

dlosed

y, n,

us!

Shop Our In-Store Inventory!

7686 Route 5, Clinton (315) 853-7300

Open Mon -Sat: 10am-5pm www.ironwoodfurniturestore.com

Cabinetry for Every Budget!

Kitchen & Bath Cabinets Hardwood Flooring & Countertops

FREE In-Home Estimates Installation Available

315-822-0010

Corner of Rte. 8 & 20, Bridgewater

(315) 823-9200

Cabinetry by Shiloh, Aspect & Waypoint

Showroom Open Tues 11-6, Wed-Sat 11-4 or by appt. www.knottybynature.com

LIQUORS & WINES

Simply Primitive PULASKI

Stop In after the Remson Barn Fest!

8088 Rt. 12, Barneveld

MEAT MARKET

Find the perfect gift for Mom! ...or let her shop with a gift certificate!

Homemade Polish Foods Variety of Kielbasa • Cold Cuts Pierogi • Golabki

1201 Lenox Ave., Utica • (315) 732-8007

Good Friends Good Times Good Wines

Welcome to the Station!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! Mon-Sat 9am-9pm, Sun 10am-6pm

HALF & FULL CASE DISCOUNTS 8231 State Route 12, Barneveld (315) 896-4444

www.polishfoodutica.com • Mon-Fri: 9-5, Sat: 9-4:30, Sun: ClosedWed-Sat 10-4, Sun 10-2 www.facebook.com/simprimitive • Open

Barney’s Angels Ilion Dog Sitters

Wine & Spirits Boarding, Kennel & Daycare Services

Check out Barney’s Angels Dog Sitters on 11821 Facebook!Woodhull Rd., Forestport

(315) 392-7072 Thu: 10-6, Fri & Sat: 8-8, Sun & Mon: 10-6, Tue & Wed: closed 315-525-3330 • 4361 Acme Rd., Ilion

• Home Environment • Clean ~ Safe • Daily Facebook Dog Videos Better Business • Friendly & Spacious Bureau Approved Custom hand-made iron railings, fences & gates. • We take both big & small dogs!

Raulli’s 10 East Main St., Ilion • (315) Iron 894-8142 Works Open Mon-Sat: 9-9, Sun: 12-5 • All credit cards accepted www.raullis.com

133 Mill St., Rome, New York 315-337-8070

JEFF’S HANDCRAFTED

AMISH FURNITURE

We can customize any of our new pieces of furniture!

Fine furniture made in the USA

(315) 858-1010 • 1058 Route 28, Jordanville, 13361 Mon-Tues & Thurs-Sat: 10am-5pm, Sun: 11am-4pm, closed Wed www.jeffsamishfurniture.com

IRONWOOD Furniture

Sparkling Diamond Fine Jewelry Engagement Rings & Bands

Ring Inspections Jewelry Repair Cleaning In-store Gift Items Repairs

315 733-7676 www.alisonsjewelry.net

4576 Middle Settlement Rd. New Hartford

AMISH

Jelly Cupboards, Bookcases, Hutches, Tables, Baker’s Racks, Benches, Coffee/End Tables, Have a sparkling year! Hoosiers & much 4576 Middlemore! Settlement Rd., New Hartford *10% off-c

315 733-7676 Tues-Fri: 10:30-5, Sat: 10:30-1:30

7686 Route 5, Clinton (315) 853-7300

Open Mon -Sat: 10am-5pm www.iron

Swan Pools & Spas

Tues-Fri: 10:30-5, Sat: 10:30-1:30

Taking orders for safety covers. FREE In-Home Estimates

Kitchen & Bath Cabinets Hardwood Flooring & Countertops

Installation Available Free installation with purchase!

315-822-0010

Corner Rte. 8St., & 20, Bridgewater 3989ofOneida Washington Mills

132 E. Main Street, Ilion Showroom Open Tues 11-6, Wed-Sat 11-4982-9760 or by appt. (315) 895-4321 www.swanpool.net (315) www.knottybynature.com

C A

At Home

By Heather Loveland-Button, owner of Home Sweet Home Cleaning & Gardening LLC

A Back-to-School Reset September has a way of changing the rhythm at home. After a fun, busy summer filled with loose schedules and later bedtimes, school brings structure back into our lives—and into our homes. Instead of waiting until New Year’s Day to set goals and create new routines, consider the beginning of the school year as your family’s fresh start. A school-year vision and shared calendar can provide the structure a busy household needs while reducing some of the mental load parents carry every day. Start by putting the entire school calendar into one shared digital calendar. Include holidays, half-days, activities, appointments, and important deadlines. Then, schedule a recurring weekly family review. Use that time to look at the week ahead, coordinate pickups and drop-offs, plan meals, and make any necessary shopping or packing lists. Remember to schedule time for yourself, too. Exercise, date nights, time with friends, and quiet time are much more likely to happen when they are treated as priorities instead of afterthoughts. Bedtime is important for adults as well as children, so consider setting a recurring bedtime alarm. Give yourself time to wind down with screen-free reading, journaling, stretching, or meditation before going to sleep.

Reset the Outgrown Clothes As you shop for new school clothes, be discerning when putting away summer clothing. Ask yourself: Will this still fit next year? Is it in good enough condition to keep? Does my child even like wearing it? Keep a paper bag or donation bin inside each child’s closet for clothing they have outgrown. When the container is full, it is ready to go directly to a donation center. This prevents unwanted clothes from being mixed back into drawers and closets. 88 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

Work With the Natural Drop Zone To build routines that last, work with the rhythms your family already has. If your children come through the door and immediately kick off their shoes and drop their backpacks and coats, that area is your natural drop zone. Instead of fighting it, turn it into a functional mini-mudroom. Add a shoe organizer, baskets for hats and gloves, and a few sturdy hooks for backpacks and jackets. The same approach works for mail. As soon as you bring it inside, sort it near the recycling or garbage bin. Discard junk mail and empty envelopes immediately, then place everything else into simple categories such as “file,” “pay,” and “respond.”

Make the Kitchen Work Harder The kitchen often becomes the command center of the home during the school year. Before the week begins, clear expired food from the refrigerator, create space for lunch supplies, and place frequently used snacks where children can reach them. Whenever possible, prepare one part of the next day the night before. Fill water bottles, pack nonperishable lunch items, set out breakfast supplies, or make sure backpacks and permission slips are ready to go. You do not have to prepare everything—just choose one task that will make the morning easier. A quick nightly kitchen reset can also make a big difference. Load the dishwasher, wipe the counters, put away loose papers, and return items to their proper places. Waking up to a reasonably clean kitchen creates a calmer start to the day.

Choose One Space at a Time A back-to-school reset does not require reorganizing the entire house. Choose the one space creating the most frustration and begin

there. It might be the entryway, homework area, laundry room, kitchen counter, or children’s bathroom. Ask yourself: What is not working here, and what simple change would make it easier? Sometimes the answer is not purchasing another organizer. It may be removing unnecessary items, moving supplies closer to where they are used, or assigning each family member a basket or hook.

Prepare for the Colder Months Early fall is also a good time to handle a few seasonal tasks before colder weather arrives. Wash frequently used blankets, clean beneath furniture, wipe down baseboards, check entryway mats, and make room for coats, boots, hats, and gloves. There is no need to complete everything in one weekend. Choose one small project each week and build momentum gradually. A home reset is not about creating a picture-perfect house. It is about creating a home that supports the people living in it. Find one thing each week that can be done the night before to make life a little easier, the home a little cleaner, and your routines a little stronger. We are not looking for perfection. We are looking for ways to make our busy lives more manageable—because, at the end of the day, these years go faster than we want them to.

Heather’s Back-to-School Reset List • Add the school calendar to one shared family calendar. • Designate one place for backpacks, shoes, and school papers. • Keep a donation bag in each child’s closet. • Clear out the refrigerator before the school week begins. • Prepare one thing each night for the following morning. • Reset the kitchen before bedtime. • Choose one small area to organize each week. • Make space for coats, boots, and cold-weather gear.

MV Health

By Dr. Juleen Qandah

THE BRAIN ON IMPACT

What Every Parent, Athlete, and Coach Should Know About Concussions This Fall September in Central New York means sports are back. Stadium lights. Soccer fields. Volleyball courts. Cheerleading mats. Packed sidelines. Weekend tournaments. And somewhere, right now, a teenager is saying: “I’m fine, Coach.” Even though they may not be. As an ER physician, I see concussion season arrive every fall. And despite better awareness, many families still misunderstand what a concussion actually is. It is not simply “getting your bell rung.” It is not always dramatic. And it does not require being knocked unconscious. A concussion is a brain function injury. That distinction matters. The brain is an extraordinary organ: about three pounds, roughly 86 billion neurons, and trillions of connections coordinating everything from balance and memory to mood, judgment, and reaction time. It also has the consistency of gelatin and sits suspended in fluid inside the skull. During a concussion, the brain can rapidly accelerate, rotate, or shift inside the skull. Even when there is no bleeding, fracture, or visible abnormality on a CT scan, that sudden movement can disrupt the brain’s electrical signaling and metabolism. In other words, the brain’s operating system temporarily glitches. That is why symptoms can look so different from one athlete to another. A concussion may cause headache, dizziness, 90 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

nausea, blurred vision, balance problems, sensitivity to light or noise, fatigue, confusion, slowed thinking, memory issues, irritability, anxiety, emotional swings, or sleep changes. Symptoms may appear immediately or unfold over several hours. Parents often notice the most important sign before an athlete says anything out loud: “They just don’t seem like themselves.” Believe that instinct. Teenagers are especially tricky because many do not want to leave the game. They may minimize symptoms, hide dizziness, or insist they are fine because the team needs them. But the teenage brain is still developing. The frontal lobe, which helps with judgment, impulse control, planning, and emotional regulation, is one of the last regions to fully mature, often not until the mid-20s. This helps explain both teenage confidence and teenage decision-making. It also means young athletes deserve extra caution after a head injury.

The most important rule is simple:

No athlete with a suspected concussion should return to play the same day. A second head injury before the brain has recovered can be dangerous. While rare, severe brain swelling after a repeat injury can be catastrophic. No championship, tournament, rivalry game, or senior season moment is worth permanent neurologic harm. Recovery from concussion is also not one-sizefits-all. Many adults improve within one to two weeks, while adolescents may take longer. Symptoms can worsen with poor sleep, dehydration, stress, loud environments, too much screen time, or returning to activity too quickly. Years ago, concussion care often meant sitting in a dark room for a week. We now know prolonged total isolation is usually not best. Mod-

ern recovery usually involves short-term rest, hydration, sleep, symptom monitoring, gradual return to school, and gradual return to exercise. The key word is gradual. Another common ER question is: “Shouldn’t we get a CT scan?” Sometimes, yes. But often, no. A concussion is usually a functional injury, not a structural one. CT scans look for emergencies such as bleeding, skull fracture, swelling, or other serious trauma. A normal CT does not rule out a concussion. And because CT scans involve radiation, especially important in children, physicians use them carefully. Red flags that deserve urgent medical evaluation include repeated vomiting, worsening headache, seizure, confusion that is getting worse, difficulty waking up, weakness, numbness, slurred speech or loss of consciousness. Sports are incredible for kids. They build discipline, resilience, friendships, confidence, teamwork, and memories that last a lifetime. But brains only come in one model. This fall, if something seems off, say something. Pull the athlete. Get them evaluated. Let the brain recover. Toughness is not pretending the brain is fine. Real toughness is protecting it.

Concussion Red Flags Go to the ER immediately if an athlete has: • Repeated vomiting • A headache that is getting worse • Seizure • Confusion that worsens over time • Trouble waking up • Weakness, numbness, or trouble walking • Slurred speech • Loss of consciousness • Any behavior that feels suddenly “not like them” When in doubt, pull them from play and have them evaluated. No game is worth gambling with the brain.

IMPROVE YOUR HOME THIS FALL.

PAY WAY, WAY LATER.

financing for 36 MONTHS *Financing available only to approved buyers. See Design Consultant for complete details. Expires 9/30/26.

FREE CONSULTATIONS! 315-624-7344 NEWYORKSASH.COM

MV Thrift By Kaila Champoux

The Village Basement If you're looking for a welcoming shopping destination filled with personality and the perfect amount of sassy style, look no further than The Village Basement. After years of shopping at the original store, longtime friends Kate Hoover and Amanda Hanna made the shop their own when they took over the business on October 1, 2018. They poured their love of fashion and finding great deals into The Village Basement to give pre-loved treasures a second chance and share them with shoppers looking for the same. When you step inside, you'll be greeted with an expertly curated playlist for happy shopping vibes. You'll immediately notice the impressive purse wall lined with designer bags to match any outfit. Walk a little farther, and you'll discover something different: the clothing is organized by color rather than size. "It's a sensory thing," Kate explains. "It's smoother for the eye." The color arrangement also encourages shoppers to keep an open mind. Every brand fits differently, and pre-owned clothing can shrink or stretch over time. Pants remain organized by size, but the colorful displays invite customers to browse, discover, and try something they might have otherwise overlooked. The Village Basement offers an ever-changing collection of women's clothing in inclusive sizes, ranging from everyday wear to formal attire, along with shoes, purses, jewelry, home décor, furniture, antiques, and small appliances. Inventory is constantly rotating. After eight weeks on the sales floor, items are moved to the

clearance rack where they are discounted by 35% to make space for the next wave of treasures. Unsold items are then donated to Sauquoit Valley Friends and Neighbors in Clayville to benefit the local community. Designer brands like Gucci, Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Yves Saint Laurent, however, never make it to clearance. Kate and Amanda pride themselves on understanding the value of both everyday and luxury pieces, giving shoppers confidence that they're getting a fair price. One never knows what might arrive through the door. Kate still talks about a stunning floorlength embroidered faux fur Free People coat affectionately nicknamed the "Viking Coat." Naturally, she couldn't let that one get away. "When I wear it," she says, "I feel like the coolest thing walking the earth."

Fun Fact: Nearly half of Amanda's wardrobe came from The Village Basement!

Consignors receive 40% of the selling price on standard items, while higher-end merchandise is evaluated individually with a more favorable split. The best consignors "drop and shop," bringing freshly laundered, in-season clothing in a variety of styles.

Kate and Amanda love that fashion always comes full circle. They enjoy reminiscing whenever familiar styles return, and lately they've noticed a younger generation embracing resale through trends like "Granny Chic" and "Cottage Core." Over the years, customers and consignors have become regulars who stop by to catch up and shop. The owners also appreciate the

Mohawk Valley's spirit of "community over competition," where they have noticed that local consignment shops support one another rather than compete. The Village Basement has proudly participated in community events like Chicks Along the Canal in Little Falls, celebrating women-owned businesses such as their own, throughout the region. Whether you're hunting for a designer handbag, decorating your home, or simply taking your time browsing the rainbow of racks, every visit promises something new and the excitement of finding the perfect piece for your home or wardrobe.

Most Memorable Item That Came Through The Doors: More than once, the owners have opened totes overflowing with designer pieces.

The Village Basement

70 Genesee Street, New Hartford (parking & entrance in back)

Hours Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday: 9 a.m.– 5 p.m. Thursday: 9 a.m.– 7 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m.– 4 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m.– 3 p.m.

Consignment Acceptance Times Thursday: 9 a.m.– 6 p.m. Friday: 9 a.m.– 4 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m.– 3 p.m. Please call ahead before dropping off consignments to confirm space is available and that your items are appropriate for the current or upcoming season.

What They're Looking For Freshly laundered, in-season clothing in a variety of styles. Kate especially loves discovering unique jewelry and one-of-a-kind treasures.

Additional Information Staff Shout-Out: "We wouldn't be able to do what we do without our amazing staff!” 92 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

11821 Woodhull Rd, Forestport (315) 392‑7072

Hours: Thu, Sun & Mon: 10am–6pm, Fri & Sat: 8am–8pm, Tue & Wed: Closed

Saturday Sept. 26 10-6

2026

Sunday Sept. 27 10-5

Over 225 Exhibitors Line Main Street! Arts & Crafts • Farmers Market Country Cooking • Entertainment & Much More! All in the Rural Welsh Traditions of Remsen, NY (12 miles North of Utica on Route 12) FREE ADMISSION • NO PETS Paved Parking - Follow Signs on Route 12N & 12S

www.remsenbarnfestival.org

Thanks to our sponsors: The Daily Sentinel • Flack Broadcasting

utternut Barn Primitives B 50th Year “Something to Crow About” Offering Early Antiques Primitive Wares Needfuls Purposeful Stuff Richfield Springs, NY Open Most Every Day: 10-5 315-858-0964 www.butternutbarnprimitives.com

Vendors Wanted!

All kinds of Unique Vendors!

Also home of

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

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

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

Look Back AALook LookBack Back A Look Back

The Longest Shortest Days The TheLongest LongestShortest ShortestDays Days By Libby Lemire ByBy Libby Libby Lemire Lemire

As I write this, back-to-school season has not quite reached the fever pitch that it will. I’m now on the periphery Aslooking As I write I write this, this, back-to-school back-to-school season has has not not quite quite reached reached the the fever fever pitch pitch that that it it will. will. I’m I’m now now onon the the periphery periphery in, merely listening to season the hustle and bustle associated with it all. looking looking in,in, merely merely listening listening toto the the hustle hustle and and bustle bustle associated associated with with it all. it all. September never passes without my reflection on the age-old quandary of time’s fleeting nature. “I can’t believe my September September never never passes without without mymy reflection reflection onon the the age-old age-old quandary quandary of of time’s time’s fleeting fleeting nature. nature. “I can’t can’t believe mymy baby is going topasses kindergarten,” or “Can you believe she’s going to college?” are common turns of“Iphrase. I believe was told baby baby is is going going to to kindergarten,” kindergarten,” oror “Can “Can believe believe she’s she’s going toto college?” college?” are are common common of of phrase. phrase. was I was told told many times, “You’ll blink and they’ll beyou allyou grown up,” but,going as with many things in life, untilturns Iturns experienced it Imyself, it wasn’t relatable. many many times, times, “You’ll “You’ll blink blink and and they’ll they’ll bebe allall grown grown up,” up,” but, but, asas with with many many things things in in life, life, until until I experienced I experienced it myself, it myself, it it wasn’t wasn’t relatable. relatable. I moved back to the Mohawk Valley with two small children. After playing musical houses for a couple of years, we settled into atoneighborhood and became the new young family. As playing my children werehouses learning toa walk, my I moved I moved back back to the the Mohawk Mohawk Valley Valley with with two two small small children. children. After After playing musical musical houses forfor couple a couple ofneighbors of years, years, wewe were navigating teenagers.and settled settled into into a neighborhood a neighborhood and became became the the new new young young family. family. AsAs mymy children children were were learning learning toto walk, walk, mymy neighbors neighbors were were navigating navigating teenagers. teenagers. One of the greatest things about our move back was reconnecting with families I had known who were now raising their own. Some things weren’t my contemporaries growing up, but age disparities seem to disappear when raising One One of of the the greatest greatest things about about our our move move back back was was reconnecting reconnecting with with families families I had I had known known who who were were now now raising raising children around the same age. There were four generations of friendship in my daughter’s kindergarten class. their theirown. own.Some Someweren’t weren’tmymycontemporaries contemporariesgrowing growingup,up,but butage agedisparities disparitiesseem seemtotodisappear disappearwhen whenraising raising children children around around the the same same age. age. There There were were four four generations generations of of friendship friendship in in mymy daughter’s daughter’s kindergarten kindergarten class. class. I love the phrase “the longest shortest day” in reference to family life. When kids are sick and snotty, the days can feel long, but the“the totality of their time under roof is short. I love I love the the phrase phrase “the longest longest shortest shortest day” day” inyour in reference reference toto family family life. life. When When kids kids are are sick sick and and snotty, snotty, the the days days can can feel feel long, long, but but the the totality totality of of their their time time under under your your roof roof is is short. short. Happy Back-to-School, everyone. Enjoy the time. Happy Happy Back-to-School, Back-to-School, everyone. everyone. Enjoy Enjoy the the time. time. 94 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

S S

a ns

Gift Shopping...

ns 3 Generatio e th g in rv Se lley! Mohawk Va

Nursery Open by Appointment Only

WORLD OF GOOD. BUILDING STONES that does a

CLASSIC GARDENS

Complete Landscape Services & Nursery • Planting design & installation • Spring and Fall Cleanup • Pruning, Edging, and Mulching • Lawn Installation and Renovation

• Walks and Patio Installation • Walls and Water Gardens • Mulch Delivery or Pick-Up • Lawn Mowing

315-853-5665

47 Clinton Rd (Rt 12B) New Hartford

Call: 315-735-2206

HOURS AND BY APPOINTMENT:

Thursdays 10:00am – 4:00pm 2nd Saturday of Every Month 10:00am – 4:00pm Every Saturday from Thanksgiving to Christmas

D O O R

& H A R D WA R E Farmers Market on Village Green

FIND A GIFT FOR EVERYONE IN THE FAMILY.

Dog Sitting & Daycare

(315) 525-3330

10:00am – 4:00pm

4361 Acme Road, Ilion

See our website for changes in hours due to exigent circumstances

We Sell & Service

Barney’s Angels

• Home Environment • Clean & Safe • Friendly Residential & Commercial dogs • Spacious Ave.BigClinton, 114 McBride NY buildingstonesshoppe.square.site Family owned and operated for over 50 years! • Daily FB videos welcome too! 8 SouthBroad Park RowSt., Clinton, NY 13323 facebook.com/buildingstonesshoppe 505 Utica Facebook: Barneys Angels Dog Sitters Open M-F 8-4:30 • (315) 735-5577 • www.jmdoor.net

Garage and Entry Doors

USE THE WILLIAMS STREET ENTRANCE

Nursery Open by Appointment Only

Quality. Experience. SIC GARDENS Inspiration.

Come Swing a Sample a variety of NYS wines scape Services & Nursery • Kiln Dried Hardwoods and Softwoodsin our rustic century old hayloft!

! ORT

ht !

e r

12-7 ars!

or.net

atand the View! • Walks and Pine Patio Installation •Few Hardwood flooring

Offering winePhone: tastings,607-286-9201 wine by the glass, wine slushies, local NYS cheeses & chocolates www.wightmanspecialtywoods.com

(315) • Walls and Water Gardens •8300 Mouldings •723-7682 Wall • Siding Brimfield Farm Winery Brimfield St.,Coverings • Mulch Delivery orClinton Pick-Up

brimfieldviewdrivingrange.com • Lawn Mowing

Now Buying Hardwood Logs

OPEN DAILY 9-Dusk Call: 315-735-2206 Follow us on facebook Wightman Specialty Woods

Barney’s Angels

Dog Sitting & Daycare

(315) 525-3330 4361 Acme Road, Ilion

• Home Environment • Clean & Safe • Friendly Big dogs • Spacious • Daily FB videos welcome too! Facebook: Barneys Angels Dog Sitters

Mon - Fri: 8:00am - 4:30pm

IRONWOOD Furniture

AMISH MADE

Jelly Cupboards, Bookcases, Hutches, Tables, Baker’s Racks, Benches, Coffee/End Tables, Hoosiers & much more!

8300 Brimfield Clinton Sat: 8:00amSt.- 12:00pm (315) 853-8175 • Open 7Highway days a week 146 County 35a12-7 Mid-April thru October Portlandville, NY 13834 www.brimfieldfarmwinery.com

ALL TABLE SETS

10% OFF STORE WIDE! *10% off-cash/check - 5% off-credit card

7686 Route 5, Clinton (315) 853-7300

Shop Our In-Store Inventory!

Open Mon -Sat: 10am-5pm www.ironwoodfurniturestore.com

Giving Back

Birdies Fore Babies Inspiring Hope, One Grant at a Time Some of the most meaningful ways we give back begin with a chapter we never would have chosen for ourselves. For Stephanie and Steve Lowe, that chapter was a seven-year journey through infertility. It was filled with hope, heartbreak, difficult decisions, and the emotional and financial challenges that so many individuals and couples quietly face while trying to grow their families. Many people in our region know Stephanie through her work as a partner at Cooley & Lowe Wealth Management and Steve as the owner and president of Valley Signs. For Stephanie, Birdies Fore Babies is part of a continued commitment to charitable and community initiatives throughout the Mohawk Valley. Her involvement reflects the kind of local leadership that reaches beyond the workplace, bringing people together around meaningful causes and offering support where it is needed most. Both Stephanie and Steve have built careers grounded in service, but one of the most personal and meaningful ways they have given back grew from their own experience with infertility. Although their own journey did not end the way they had hoped, it led them to a new purpose. In 2021, Stephanie and Steve founded CNY Birdies Fore Babies, a nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals and couples pursuing fertility treatment. Through financial grants, the organization helps ease the burden for those who may not have the insurance coverage or resources needed to continue their journey. Their mission is simple: Inspire hope, one grant at a time.

By Carrie Byrne Putelo

Infertility is often an invisible struggle. By sharing their own story, Stephanie and Steve are helping bring greater awareness to the challenges so many people face while letting others know they are not alone.

Our infertility journey didn’t end the way we had hoped, but it led us to a purpose we never expected. CNY Birdies Fore Babies is proof that hope, compassion, and community can transform heartbreak into something meaningful and help make other families’ dreams come true. — Stephanie Lowe

”

Every grant awarded is about more than financial assistance. It represents another chance, another step forward, and the hope of building a family. Support for Birdies Fore Babies comes from donations, sponsorships, volunteers, and the generosity of people throughout Central New York. The organization's annual charity golf tournament has become its signature fundraiser, bringing together golfers, businesses, families, and supporters who believe in its mission. This year's tournament will be held Friday, September 11, 2026, at Cedar Lake Club. For those who attend, the impact is impossible to miss. Throughout the course, signs display photographs of babies whose families received Birdies Fore Babies grants. As golfers make their way from hole to hole, they are greeted by smiling faces that serve as a powerful reminder of what generosity can make possible. Those photos tell the story better than words ever could. They are a celebration of hope fulfilled and a tribute to the donors, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters whose kindness helped make each family's journey possible. Stephanie and Steve know firsthand that every family's path is different. Through Birdies Fore Babies, they have transformed their own experience into a lasting gift for others, helping hopeful parents continue their journey

“As recipients of the CNY Birdies Fore Babies grant, we can honestly say you changed the course of our lives. IVF made it possible for us to become parents to our incredible son, Ardi. Your generosity gave us more than financial support—it gave us the chance to build the family we had dreamed of. We are forever thankful.” – Kelli, Chris and Ardi Rimer 96 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine SEPTEMBER 2026

“

and reminding them that they don't have to walk it alone. It is a beautiful example of how compassion, perseverance, and a caring community can come together to change lives, one grant, one family, and one baby at a time. Every gift to CNY Birdies Fore Babies helps give an individual or couple the chance to keep moving forward on their journey to parenthood. To learn more, support the annual tournament, or make a donation, visit visit cnybirdiesforebabies.org or scan the QR code. Your generosity could help place another smiling face along the course in the years ahead.

CANASTOTA WATERVILLE WATERVILLE CANASTOTA Route 41544154 Route 31 31 697-2214 (315)(315) 697-2214

Route 962 962 Route 12 12 841-4181 (315)(315) 841-4181

LOWVILLE LOWVILLE

Route 82078207 Route 26 26 376-0300 (315)(315) 376-0300

WhitesFarmSupply.com WhitesFarmSupply.com

* © Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2026. $0 Down, 0% A.P.R. financing for up to 36 months on purchases of new Kubota BX23s equipment dealers’ * © Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2026. $0 Down, 0% A.P.R. financing for up to 36 months on purchases of new Kubota BX23s equipment dealers’ in-stock inventory is available to qualified purchasers through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A.; subject to credit approval. Example: 36 monthly in-stock inventory is available to qualified purchasers through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A.; subject to credit approval. Example: 36 monthly payments of $27.78 per $1,000 financed. Customer instant rebate of $4,500 on Kubota BX23s available with cash or standard rate financing, payments of $27.78 per $1,000 financed. Customer instant rebate of $4,500 on Kubota BX23s available with cash or standard rate financing, including $0 Down, 5.99% A.P.R. financing for up to 84 months. Customer Instant Rebate is not available with 0% A.P.R. or other promotional including $0 Down, 5.99% A.P.R. financing for up to 84 months. Customer Instant Rebate is not available with 0% A.P.R. or other promotional financing. Offers expire 09/30/26. Terms subject to change. For complete warranty, disclaimer, safety, incentive offer and product information financing. Offers expire 09/30/26. Terms subject to change. For complete warranty, disclaimer, safety, incentive offer and product information consult your Dealer or KubotaUSA.com. consult your Dealer or KubotaUSA.com.

LET’S SHOW

everyone THAT MOHAWK VALLEY GIVES!

SEPTEMBER 18 0 0 . $ 5 MUM I MIN ATION DON

Support over 440 local organizations doing great work in our community!

How does it work?

• Visit givemv.org on Friday, September 18, between midnight and 9:00 p.m. • Browse the list of amazing nonprofits • Give to the organizations and causes that matter Scan most to you!

me!

givemv.org HOSTED BY

P R O U D LY S P O N S O R E D B Y