Mohawk Valley Express Volume 3 Number 9 September 2023

20th Annual Garlic & Herb Festival September 9th!

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VOLUME 3: NUMBER 9

SEPTEMBER 2023

Get ready for a stinkin’ good time on September 9th

festival cuisine, live entertainment, family Get ready for a stinkin’ activities, and more good time because the planned for visitors.

Mohawk Valley Garlic and Herb Festival will According to organizer return to Little Falls for its Julie Webster, “This all 20th year on September started back when Marge 9, 2023, from 10 a.m.

Balder was the director until 5 p.m. in Canal of the Mohawk Valley Place.

Center for the Arts. She They’ll have the area’s came over to Mom and best garlic growers, me and said hey, I think produce vendors, fine this could be an amazing artisans, food product thing, but it’s going to take producers, herbs a lot more organization and flower vendors, and bodies.”

By Dave Warner

A Passion for Peonies

Photo by Dave Warner - An aerial view of the 2022 Mohawk Valley Garlic & Herb Festival at Canal Place in Little Falls New York.

“It was only eight garlic vendors the first year, and this year, we have twenty-eight, which I believe is our highest number. We’re up to 94

total vendors,” she said.

beautiful peonies and other perennials on a farm named for her grandfather.

Her husband, Jason, was raised in Guyana and is from a farming family. He was employed as a software engineer in New York City, where they met.

Growing up on a Mennonite farm in upstate New York, Cate had farming in her blood.

“I was gardening from age 2!” Cate laughs.

After graduation, she moved to the city and worked on Wall Street as a Technology Risk Manager for many years.

As time passed, gardening became more important to Cate, and she started a garden at their home in Brooklyn.

Deciding they needed more space, they moved to Salisbury.

something unique for the area: Peonies. Cate Located on Route 29A in Crawford, her husband Salisbury, NY, Lyndaker Jason, and their three About Lyndaker Farms specializes in children cultivate Farms

By Carol Vogel

The Crawford Family at Lyndaker Farm: Left to Right: Zachery, Cate, Catherine, Naomi, and Jason. Photo by Carol Vogel

State soil is perfect for garlic growing.”

Webster said they used to do an educational day Last year was the first and wished they could bring it back. “New York Please See GARLIC Page 3

While Cate’s focus is the peony and cut flower

farm, Jason teaches Technology at West Canada Valley. He’s also an instructor of computer engineering and leads the FHA chapter. “My parents were both teachers,” Jason explains. Jason loves that he is home when the kids get off the bus and can work on the family farm. They raise their own vegetables and meat for their family. Jason smiles, “The flowers are for the people.”

Please See PASSION Page 2

BILL MACRI

ASSOCIATE BROKER C: 315.360.1920 O: 315.866.2209 bill.joemacrirealty@gmail.com joemacrirealty.com

235 S. Main St. Herkimer, NY 13350 W W W . M O H A W K V A L L E Y E X P R E S S . C O M

M O H A W K

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They have three children, Catherine, Zachery, and Naomi, who help around the approximately 38-acre farm. Two acres of the farm are dedicated to peonies and cut flowers and provide a healthy habitat for pollinators.

Peony Basics Peonies have existed since 1000 BC in the gardens of China and eventually reached Japan, a major producer of peony plants today.

Peony roots and seeds were prized in the East for their medicinal properties, aiding in treating asthma headaches and even helping relieve childbirth pain.

Today, there are about 40 species of peony originating from Asia, Europe, and North

America. The American Peony Society recognizes the standard six forms – Single, Japanese, Anemone, Semi-double, Bomb, and Full Double.

There are multiple colors and variations among the varieties.

Cultivating peonies takes time and patience - it takes 2-3 years to propagate them. Cate also mentioned that weeding is a full-time job. “It feels like a losing battle when it comes to weeds, but we have a plan. While weeding the first few years will be important - as plants grow and mature - the weeds won’t win, and weeding will be sporadic and hopefully down to once a year.”

Farm Offerings Lyndaker Farms carries all four types of peonies:

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herbaceous, herbaceous hybrid, tree peonies, and Itoh’s. “We have hundreds in each category. In some categories, we probably have 1000+.

Our total production area is currently over 2 acres” with more space waiting to be planted this fall.

They also have a large amount of Tree Peony seedlings that are being trialed. “These are peonies not yet registered or introduced to the market. We are trialing them to see which are special enough to warrant market introduction.

We’ve already introduced four and have others we’re hoping to propagate this year and introduce in 2024 or 2025.”

and all the fantastic plants they offer. Their website includes excellent resources on peony care and has a blog with informative posts to help you create your gorgeous gardens. Their annual catalog comes out in July and is available on their website.

The American Peony Society visited Lyndaker Farms this spring for a tour. Although the weather was rainy and not cooperative, Cate said it was exciting to have a busload of folks from all over the world to see their farm and discuss everything peony!

Cut Flowers

spring than anticipated, but it may be closer to 5,000 by the time the season ends. Most of these perennials are in their first year of growth and are not anticipated to be at peak production until 2025.”

While the farm sells to collectors and the public, Cate explains, “Our target market is florists and designers. We do not operate a roadside stand, but we do get a fair amount of DIY event requests. In these cases, folks just buy buckets of blooms from us and do the design work themselves.

We don’t actively market this service - it’s just something that’s developed organically as people have learned about our farm.”

Cate adds, “In addition to the peonies, we Cate and Jason are have at least 3000 incredibly knowledgeable perennials, but I am likely Currently, the farm and eager to share and underestimating.

We teach about gardening planted many more this Please See PASSION Page 5

Lyndaker Farms. Image courtesy of Cate Crawford

Come to the

20th Annual Mohawk Valley Garlic & Herb Fest 10am-5pm, Sat. September 9, 2023

Eat, Stink & be Merry!

Canal Place, Little Falls, NY www.mvghf.com Service Dogs Only

M O H A W K GARLIC From Page 1

year back after Covid, and the festival was packed. “We had no idea what to expect, and we wanted to extend the gate to include everyone in Canal Place. We had some growing pains with parking and whatnot, but there was so much love and support last year that we now have a fantastic budget this year.”

She said that there will be more portapoties, more shuttles, and more things to do this year.

“Our horse-drawn carriage will be back. He was here all day last year and did an amazing job.”

Webster said that they have a lot of good music on tap as well. “We have a new one named Garlic.Band, and it’s very appropriate.”

“We have more food vendors than we’ve ever had, in addition to the local ones,” she stated.

They’ll also have some artisans, but they have

to be ‘from the earth.’

“Wood, metal, fiber, pottery, those kind of things.”

She also said that they promised better parking and they’ve worked really hard on that. “For sure, Industrial Boulevard, and we might do Veterans Memorial Park as handicapped ones. We have two handicappedaccessible buses and two school buses.”

“5-Axis Motorsports is also gracious enough to let us use their parking lot. There’ll be better signage, and it will all be on the website the week before, so don’t try driving down to Canal Place, just go to the map,” Webster stated.

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Inc. hopes to be able to soon offer Agricultural scholarships in addition to supporting the MVCA and other local nonprofits with our funds,” she said.

Because this is their 20th year, it’s a really big deal.

“Rain or Shine, always a Stinkin’ Good Time,” Webster laughed and said. “No rain date.”

For more information, you can email mohawkvalleygarlic@ gmail.com or visit their website at mvghf.com.

She also said they have a new logo, which will be available on select merchandise.

“In the last few years, our donation admissions at MVGHF have allowed us to become a nonprofit.

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M O H A W K

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SEPTEMBER 2023

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS - SEPTEMBER Board of Public Works Meeting - Bills 6:30 pm September 5, 2023 and Regular Session Common Council 7:00 pm in the Mayor’s Meeting - Auditing of the Conference room in City bills: 6:30 p.m. Regular Hall.

Meeting: 7:00 p.m. City Hall.

September 20, 2023 Urban Renewal Agency September 9, 2023 - 8:15 am - Mayor’s Mohawk Valley Garlic Conference room in City & Herb Festival, Canal Hall.

Place, 10 am - 5 pm.

September 21, 2023 September 12, 2023 A ‘meet the candidate’ Recreation Commission event will be held from 7 6:00 pm in the Mayor’s pm until 9 pm at Rock City Conference room in City Centre, 690 E Main St. Hall.

This is a chance to meet, greet and ask questions September 13, 2023 of Deborah Kaufman, Police and Fire Board who is running for Mayor.

Meeting - Bills 8:30 am Seating is limited, so you and Regular Session must RSVP to hold a 9:00 am in the Mayor’s seat.

Conference room in City Hall.

September 22, 2023 Tony Sweet Community September 18, 2023 Presentation on Fall Color City of Little Falls

Photography. Rock City Centre, 690 East Main St, 7 pm - 8:30 pm. Free, but reservations required at creativeoutpost.org/ events/.

to the community from all over the Northeast.

For details, visit www. littlefallscheesefestival. com.

September 28, 2023 Herkimer County Office of the Aging Awards presentation - Office for the Aging Persons of the Year: Joan & Roy Dolgeville VanSlyke, Little Falls, September 23, 2023 Outstanding Contribution: Tony Sweet Fall Color September 15, 2023 Photography Workshop 9 am - 4 pm - A Fall Michael Bulger, Little 9 am - 4 pm. Free, but Rummage Sale at Falls. 5 pm at Francesca’s reservations required the Dolgeville United Banquet Hall at 144 E. at creativeoutpost.org/ Methodist Church, 21 N. Main Street, Ilion. For events/.

Helmer Ave., Dolgeville. reservations call Kathy Come shop and get some Fox 315-867-1121.

September 27, 2023 great bargains! For more Golf Commission information, call 315-429- Herkimer Meeting - 8:00 am at the 7381.

Little Falls Municipal Golf September 19, 2023 Course.

September 16, 2023 6:30 - 7:45 pm Friends of 9 am - noon - A Fall October 7, 2023 Rummage Sale at the Basloe Library ‘Meet Little Falls Cheese the Dolgeville United the Author’ event, with Festival, downtown, 10 Methodist Church, 21 N. local author and historian am - 5 pm. The Little Helmer Ave., Dolgeville. James M. Greiner to Falls Cheese Festival Come shop and get some speak about his new has become known great bargains! For more book. This event is free as New York State’s information, call 315-429- and open to the public. premier gathering 7381. of cheesemakers, September 23, 2023 reminiscent of its early Town of Little Falls Chicken Reggie history as the nation’s Challenge - Herkimer cheese market capital. October 5, 2023 VFW 1 - 4 pm. Adults With 80 booths, 22 New Rabies Vaccinations York cheesemakers, at the Little Falls Town $10, children 6-12 $5.00, and over 120 varieties Garage, 478 Flint Ave under 5 free. Chinese auction, 50/50 raffle, free of cheese to sample, the from 5:30 - 7:00 pm. activities for ages 7 & 2022 festival drew an under. estimated 10,000 visitors Mohawk

LITTLE FALLS PUBLIC LIBRARY PROGRAMS FOR SEPTEMBER 2023 MON

TUE

All programs are subject to change. To stay up to date follow us on Facebook & Instagram and check out our website!

4

11

18

WED

(315)-823-1542 www.LFLibrary.org Little Falls Public Library @LFLibrary

5

Laurie's Make & Take 3:30pm5:30pm

Teen Creative Writing 5:15

Teen Creative Writing 5:15

12

Bluey Party for families 4:30pm

19 MV Gives

Teen Creative Writing 5:15 Book Club 5:30pm

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7

13 Flash Fiction 5:30pm

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Dream Workshop 5:45pm

Flash Fiction 5:30pm

1

Sharon's Bracelet Class 3-4:45pm

10am-12pm

14

Learn Cursive 3:15pm

SAT

2

Lunch & Learn 11am1pm

15 Playdate Plus 16 10am-12pm

Acoustic Open Mic 12pm sign up 12:30-2:30 performances

21Learn Cursive 22 Playdate Plus 23 3:15pm

10am-12pm

Intro to Signing with Baby 11:30am

donation day!

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FRI

8 Playdate Plus 9

Flash Fiction 5:30pm

Flash Fiction Open House 5:30pm with MVCA 4pm-8pm Mohawk Valley Gives

Library opens at 12pm

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THU

28 Learn Cursive 29 Playdate Plus 30 3:15pm

10am-12pm

Teen Advisory Board 4pm

Kids Craft with Miss Jess 1pm

M O H A W K PASSION From Page 2

is almost exclusively perennials or biennials.

Since they are limited in production while they cultivate, they are currently working with two local florists, Creative Designs by Tiffany in Dolgeville and Pheobe’s Floristry in Ilion. “Both are fantastic to work with, are very innovative in their designs, and provide an outstanding service to their clients,” Cate says.

She is excited to grow in the near future. “We’re also in conversation with a handful of other local and regional designers/ florists, but - until our production ramps up next year and into 2025 - we simply don’t have enough product to establish working relationships. I will say, though - most upstate NY florists appear to WANT

local products. They seem to immediately get that the local product quality has the potential to exceed product that’s had to travel much longer distances.”

The Healing Power of Nature Like many, Cate has struggled with health conditions but says, “I farm not despite - but because of - disability.”

Cate’s journey sounds familiar, “I know I’m not the only one (particularly the only woman) who’s been seriously ill and repeatedly dismissed.”

After decades of searching for answers regarding health issues that left medical experts at a loss, she was diagnosed with four autoimmune diseases and two neurological conditions.

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“All are now either in remission or very well managed.” Cate explains, “The farm has been one of the core pillars underpinning my healing.

And I’ve also become aware of how many chronically ill folks are finding work with nature helps mend what they thought was irreversibly broken.”

Page 5

Bowl of Beauty Peonies. Image courtesy of Cate Crawford

“Out of my experience, I’ve started a substack, “The Chronic Gardener” (catecrawford.substack. com). It’s kind of like a Farm/Garden Journal, but specifically from the perspective of someone doing that work while living with real, daily limitations. My goal is Fresh cut Peonies in a vase. Image courtesy of Cate Crawford that others living with the Future when you meet them. “We chronic illness (or other love the area. When we enduring hardship) may Cate and Jason’s were looking for a farm, see themselves in the passion for peonies and stories we share.” we targeted this region the natural beauty of the Family, Flowers, and Adirondack foothills is felt Please See PASSION Page 6

everyone

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M O H A W K

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Oppenheim United Methodist Church in part for its unique, state, with so many completes Phase 1 of stained glass project

PASSION From Page 5

almost unreal beauty.”

Cate explains. “But we’ve come to love it for so many reasons. We feel so at home in our children’s school district - Dolgeville Central School. Jason teaches at West Canada, loves his students, and believes in/strongly supports the mission of that school as well. Not to mention the friends we’ve made and the wonderful neighbors we have here in Salisbury.”

great small businesses and outdoor activities at one’s fingertips. We’d not be surprised if the area continues to increase in popularity in the coming years, much like what we’ve all witnessed in the Hudson Valley. Quality of life here is fantastic!”

Visit their website, www. lyndakerfarms.com, to read more about the farm, learn gardening tips, sign “We also feel this area up for their mailing list, has huge potential. It’s and shop their catalog. surely one of the most You can even schedule a beautiful parts of NY walking tour of the farm!

Installation • Sales • Service Commercial • Agriculture • Residential

Elmer Fisher 315.219.2171

746 State Hwy. 163 Fort Plain, NY 13339

The Oppenheim United Methodist Church recently completed Phase 1 of a project to repair and restore the stained glass windows in their church.

The windows are estimated to be over 100 hundred years old and several were donated by early members of the congregation.

The restoration was done by the Adirondack Stained Glass Works in Gloversville, NY, using a

process developed by Louis Tiffany at the turn of the last century. Cracked or broken pieces were replaced, the glass was cleaned, and the lead soldering was removed. The pieces were then reassembled and soldered back together with copper foil.

The project was funded through donations, memorial contributions, and a generous Adam and Nellie Horn Foundation

grant. A total of three large windows were repaired.

The Church is currently raising funds to repair additional windows.

The Oppenheim United Methodist Church would like to express our sincere thanks to the Adam and Nellie Horn Foundation for the grant awarded to our church. These funds allowed us to repair a third window that was in very poor condition.

SENIOR MEALS FOR SEPTEMBER To reserve a meal, call the Herkimer County Office for the Aging at least one business day in advance, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, at 315-867-1204 or 315-867-1634. If you will not be home for meals, call 315867-1204 at least a day in advance. All sites are handicapped accessible.

Sep 01 - Macaroni and cheese, green beans, stewed tomatoes and zucchini, pudding.

Sep 04 - Closed for Labor Day. Sep 05 - Turkey cold plate, cottage cheese, macaroni salad, peanut butter cookie.

Sep 06 - Chicken and biscuits, mashed potatoes, mixed vegetables, pears.

Sep 07 - Roast pork, stuffing, Brussels sprouts, ice cream.

Sep 08 - Philly cheeseburger, O’Brien potatoes, broccoli, watermelon.

Sep 11 - BBQ chicken, baked beans, cucumber and tomato salad, pineapple.

Sep 12 - Beef tips over noodles, green beans, apple crisp.

Sep 13 - Pork chops, stuffing, cauliflower, gelatin.

Sep 14 - Frittata, sausage, hash browns, muffin, fruit cup.

Sep 15 - Spaghetti and meatballs, tossed salad, garlic knot, brownie.

Sep 18 - Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, country blend vegetables, pudding.

Sep 19 - Chicken stir fry, fluffy rice, vegetables, fresh fruit.

Sep 20 - Baked fish in lemon sauce, seasoned pasta, spinach, frosted birthday cake.

Sep 21 - Roast turkey dinner with gravy, stuffing, broccoli, Mandarin oranges.

Sep 22 - Ham and scalloped potatoes, peas and carrots, oatmeal raisin cookie.

Sep 25 - Chicken marsala, noodles, Italian blend vegetables, frosted cupcake.

Sep 26 - Cream of broccoli soup, egg salad on a Kaiser roll, three-bean salad, peaches.

Sep 27 - Pulled pork on a bun, baked beans, corn, brownie.

Sep 28 - Lasagna, tossed salad, garlic bread, cookie.

Sep 29 - Yankee pot roast, oven roasted potatoes, carrots, chef’s choice pie.

All meals are served with 8 ounces of milk, a slice of bread, and margarine.

Desserts have no concentrated sweets. The suggested donation is $3. Mail donations to Herkimer County OFA, 109 Mary St., Suite 2501, Herkimer, NY 13350. Envelopes are available from drivers.

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Self-taught artist opens show at Mohawk Valley Center for the Arts MVCA is proud to present self-taught artist Eric Whitfield and his first solo show, opening at the Mohawk Valley Center for the Arts on 9/9 through 10/14.

Born in Austin, TX to artist parents and raised in Upstate NY, Whitfield’s childhood spun on the axis of the art world, and he’d become enthralled with all things creative.

Whitfield’s father, esteemed artist Doug Whitfield whose paintings are world renowned, is still thriving in his art career. As a young artist trying to find his wings, outgrowing his father’s

king-sized shadow became a sort of crux in his pursuit of creating art that he could identify as uniquely his own. When asked how he finally stepped out of this shadow Whitfield divulged it was by “literally working through it.” Any success Whitfield has had in his art career beginnings can be attributed solely to his own perseverance, following his intuition and his heart.

in numerous festivals, shows, and pop-up gallery exhibits. Several of his paintings hang in Franca’s Wine Room in Rome, NY, and he has a solo show on deck for 2024 at the Sand Lake Center for the Arts in Averill Park, NY.

Join us on Saturday 9, 2023 for the opening event. Gallery Hours are Thursday through Saturday from 12-4PM. Eric Whitfield is currently Opening Event: Saturday represented by the from 2PM – 4PM at Mineral Point Gallery in 401-403 Canal Place, Mineral Point, WI as well Little Falls, NY. The as the 4 Elements Studio exhibit is free and open in Utica, NY. Over the to the public. Donations years he’s participated appreciated.

Photo submitted - One of the stained glass windows that has been repaired at Oppenheim United Methodist Church.

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M O H A W K

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SEPTEMBER 2023

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World famous landscape photographer set to give community presentation and free workshop in Little Falls

Just a great atmosphere a bit. Then, we have a to photograph in,” he creative session and look The Creative Outpost said. at the shots they made, is bringing famed critique them, and talk landscape photographer “We’ll come in a couple about ways to enhance Tony Sweet to Little Falls of days early and look them,” he remarked. “It on September 22nd around again. Sue and I should be a really fun and 23rd to give a free really are looking forward time.” community presentation to it.” at Rock City Centre The Creative Fall Color at 7 p.m. and then a When asked about the Photography Workshop workshop the next community presentation, will have a morning field day from 9-4 p.m. The he stated, “The show is session, lunch, class and community presentation about autumn color - how image critiques, and an and workshop focus will colorful it is in the fall - the additional late afternoon/ be Creative Fall Color reflections, the leaves, sunset field session.

Photography. and creative techniques you can use to enhance Tony is a Nikon Legend Tony and his wife have that. It’s going to be a fun Behind the Lens. After already made one trip presentation to watch.” successful careers as a here, scoping out the area jazz musician/ educator for the best shots. “Little “For the workshop, we’ll and professional Falls is special. You have get together and walk magician, Tony settled water running through around. I’ll point out on photography as it, the old mills, and some things while letting his chosen means of abandoned buildings. them go off on their own personal expression.

By Dave Warner

Over the last 30 years, on Photography and Tony has become an creativity. Tony and in-demand speaker Susan Milestone throughout the United States and Canada Please See FAMOUS Page 9

See you at the

Cheese

Festival!

NEW YORK STATE’S PREMIER GATHERING OF CHEESEMAKERS SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7 • 10AM-5PM • LITTLE FALLS, NY LITTLEFALLSCHEESEFESTIVAL.COM

M O H A W K FAMOUS From Page 8 conduct Visual Artistry photography location workshops in the United States, Canada, and Iceland. Tony maintains an active speaking schedule to photography organizations, industry trade shows, and PPA schools across the continental United States and Canada. He also conducts Visual Artistry

Creativity Seminars.

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SEPTEMBER 2023

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Digital Photography (’09) and HDR Photography (2011). He and Master Photo Workshops have co-produced four photography DVDs: Visual Artistry, HDR Made Easy, Visual Literacy, and Flower Photography Artistry, as well as an iPhone instructional video series.

Times published an interview with Tony on Tony’s photography is macro photography. published worldwide in every medium and is Tony has authored five represented by Getty books on the art of Images. For national photography: Fine Art ad campaigns, Tony’s Nature Photography images are also used (’02), Fine Art Flower

by Nikon, Exposure Photography (’05), Software, Singh Ray, Fine Art Nature Topaz, Lensbaby, and Photography: Water, others. The New York Ice, Fog (’07), Fine Art Tony

finished,

whole area is unique and beautiful and a fantastic place to be in the fall. It’s incredible.”

To sign up for the free Community Presentation or workshop visit creativeoutpost.org/ events. Space is limited to 35 in the community presentation and 15 in the workshop, so please “The sign up quickly.

Medicare Savings Program (MSP)

What is the Medicare Savings Program?

The MSP is a State funded Medicaid program. The Medicare Saving Program will pay your Part B premium for you each month.

Starting January 1, 2023, eligibility for the Medicare Savings Program (MSP) expanded in New York to individuals with Medicare who have an income up to $2,280 per month and couples with monthly incomes up to $3,077.

If approved the Medicare Saving Program may cover the Medicare Part B premium, which in 2023 is typically $164.90 a month for most people.

An additional benefit of the Medicare Savings Program is an automatic enrollment into Extra Help for Medicare Part D. Extra Help is a program to help people with limited income and resources pay for their Medicare prescription drug costs like premiums, deductibles and coinsurance.

If would like an application or need assistance completing an application contact Herkimer County Office for the Aging/ NY Connects at 315-867-1371.

You can also visit our Website at: herkimercounty.org, then departments, then office for the aging, then assistance applying for Medicare Savings program and extra help.

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Local non-profits to participate in special match campaign

UpMobility Foundation and Match Challenge The Community for several local Foundation of Herkimer organizations. and Oneida Counties will host the second-annual The biggest opportunity 24-hour day of community is for the Little Falls giving, “Mohawk Valley Youth and Family Gives,” on September Center’s ongoing Capital 20th to benefit local Campaign. UpMobility nonprofits serving the two has created two levels counties. Several non- of giving for the all-day profit organizations in September 20th event: Little Falls will participate in the campaign. #1 Match - Any dollars raised online OR through What makes it really a grant from a donorinteresting for Little advised fund between Falls non-profits is the September 13 and participation of the September 30, 2023,

By Dave Warner

will be eligible for a 3:1 match, up to $200,000 per organization. #2 New Donor Bonus - To incentivize and reward organizations for effective new donor acquisition, organizations will additionally receive $300 per online gift from a self-identified new donor, up to $9,000 per organization (equivalent to 30 new donors).

Deborah Kaufman, Chairman of the Youth Please See MATCH Page 12

Photo by Andy McEvoy - Evan Martyniuk, one of the interns for The Creative Outpost, works a camera during a summer Diamond Dawgs baseball game.

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and the Mohawk Valley and Family Center Capital Center for the Arts will Campaign, stated, “This is be eligible for that level. an incredible opportunity They will also receive an for the organization, and additional match of up to we hope everyone will $9,000 - matching $300 participate. Whatever per new donor. amount you give will triple in value. If you donate The two organizations are $10,000, that becomes planning a collaborative event at the Little $30,000.”

Falls Public Library on Little Falls Public Library September 19th from 4-8 Two other organizations p.m. to promote the event will be at the 2:1 match and take early donations. level, up to $50,000 per Refreshments will be organization. The Little served, and computers Falls Public Library will be available for MATCH From Page 10

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people to make early to 75 new donors). donations.

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themselves in new and creative ways and gain new supporters while they’re at it. It’s also an educational opportunity for community donors to learn about many amazing organizations that they may not be familiar with.”

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Locally created & sponsored film accepted into two film festivals

Movies by Movers Film Festival as one of 15 ACT 1: ICU, a film films presented during produced by local Hannah their online showcase.

Straney and filmed ADF’s Movies By Movers in Little Falls with the is a multi-faceted festival support of local donors, dedicated to celebrating has been accepted into The Creative Outpost, the conversation between two film festivals. a Little Falls non-profit body, movement, and 501c3 organization camera.

Straney stated, “These focused on creative acceptances mark a content, film, and media The film was also selected significant achievement education, coordinated for the 2023 DANCE and motivate us to both student involvement. CAMERA ISTANBUL pursue submissions to The Little Falls Youth & Impro Dance Fest. Dance other festivals and create Family Center (formerly Camera Istanbul is an more compelling films.” the YMCA) handled the international Dance Film business side of things, & Dance Photography The making of this one such as insurance for Festival, while ”Seeing for Straney was different the project, and Mark Dance Through the Lens” in several ways, in Regan, who owns the and was founded by a that it was supported powerhouse on West Mill group of independent by local donations and St, allowed the group to artists and art explorers businesses and involved use the facility for filming. who are building a greater awareness of a teaching component, multicultural art forms in where students from ACT 1: ICU was selected Little Falls High School for the 2023 ADF’s Please See FILM Page 14

By Dave Warner

spent two hours on the set getting instruction on everything from cameras to the creativity involved in shooting this kind of project.

Photo by Dave Warner - Nathan Nirschl and Hannah Straney discuss some of the dance moves they’ll be doing during one of their 2022 films made in Little Falls.

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connection with the field of dance.

This Dance Camera Istanbul festival takes place in October, and they are still awaiting awards and showing details.

Straney stated, “I think when you make something and spend so

much time and energy, and you get so many people involved in creating it and making it come to fruition, it then begs another step forward to bring it into the public eye.”

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projects. “That allows us to expand the number of people we’re currently working with, and we’ll have an easier time submitting to other festivals. It just builds support for you as an artist and your projects She hopes that the moving forward.” recognition and awards allow them to raise Retrograde Studios and more funding for future Straney will return to Upstate NY in the Fall to embark on another project. This time, they will collaborate with world-renowned dancer Kevin Pajarillaga, Emmy award-winning producer Joe Hill, and accomplished creative directors Baylie and

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McCall Olsen out of LA. “Kevin is dancing with the Gibney Dance Company out of New York City, a world-renowned dance company that tours worldwide,” she said.

“These awards have helped us expand the reach of those willing to work with us.”

Straney aims to raise $5,000 for the fall project in Little Falls. “While we partner with Huron Studios in Brooklyn, NY, we hope to gather additional support from within Little Falls. All donations will be greatly appreciated,” she stated.

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When asked why Little Falls, she said, “The setting is really important for me, especially since I grew up in Little Falls. I have fond memories but also a memory bank to draw from. I have these images in my brain about what emotions I want to pull from and how I want to make the space feel,” Straney said.

“Many of those spaces can be found in Little Falls. It feels natural for me to come back here and to bring people with me to work here,” she remarked.

A donation page has been established at creativeoutpost.org/ projects/, where you can help fund this project to help make it happen.

Straney said, “I am so excited for the beauty of Little Falls to once again set the backdrop for our next film. We’re really hoping that anyone who is interested and thinks the project is exciting or fun and willing to help out will get involved. Anything will be appreciated.”

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The NFL’s Connection to Little Falls; Steve Gregory & Rosanne Geraty Gregory Share Their Pro Football Journey The two of them met in a Sociology class at Steve Gregory coached Syracuse University. for the Miami Dolphins Rosanne was a freshman last season and was a studying Advertising, & safety during his NFL Steve was a sophomore playing days. He is studying Marketing & married to Little Falls Finance. native Rosanne Geraty Gregory, and when They were both athletes football season would at the time. Rosanne end, they would spend played field hockey, time here in Little Falls at and Steve was playing her childhood home. as a defensive back for Syracuse football.

Beginning Years at Syracuse Rosanne already had an appreciation for football Rosanne is the daughter since she and her family of Maria & Richard Geraty started going to Syracuse and sister to Richard Jr. If games when she was Geraty Pools comes to only six years old. She your mind, then you have stated, “My whole family the right family. Steve went. We tailgated...it grew up in Staten Island, was a big deal.” When NY. she met Steve, her family

By Denise Louise Gregorka

was very happy to hear he was on the football team.

They both laughed when Steve stated, “That’s the joke. The only reason she went to Syracuse was to find me.” The last year Steve played at Syracuse, Rosanne’s mom and dad went to every home and away game with her except one. She said, “They were always there and supportive.”

Steve & Rosanne, with daughters Aviana (9) & Vivienne (2) enjoying family time this summer in Little Falls.

Steve remembers the bittersweet emotions Professional Playing of going to San Diego Career “It’s exciting, but it’s hard when you are in ~ San Diego Chargers a relationship. She was Steve was signed by the finishing up school, and San Diego Chargers as I was going across the an undrafted free agent country to live in San Diego.” Rosanne had in 2006. already taken a job in

Manhattan, so she didn’t go with him his first year.

He was on the west coast, and she was on the east coast. Steve stated, “In order for us to stay close to each other, she would come on weekends and fly the red-eye to get back to work.”

Please See NFL Page 16

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Grandparents Day at the Irish Cultural Center of the Mohawk Valley

NFL From Page 15

Rosanne was juggling her career & flying off to Join us at The H.A.R.P. PM with writer, musician, necessary supplies and San Diego just to see Museum at the Irish and storyteller Deirdre our crack team of crafters Steve and watch him play.

Cultural Center of the McCarthy who will will be there to help. Rosanne remembers, “It Mohawk Valley on Sunday entertain us with her story Appropriate refreshments was fun, though. It was September 10 at 2:00 PM about The Rescue of will be provided as well. exciting! I would take the for our Grandparents Day Fairy Queen Maeve and There is no charge for red-eye home and take Activities. perhaps other stories. the subway to work...I Deirdre lives in Central this program, but please would just do it. I never Grandparents (and Square and originally register in advance to thought about it much.” parents), are you looking hails from Co. Limerick, ensure that we have for something different Ireland. enough craft materials.

They both knew that to do with your precious Steve’s playing career young ones? Why not We will also have a The event will be held at was just getting started bring them to the Irish craft activity that the the Irish Cultural Center and was not a sure thing.

Cultural Center of the kiddos and adults can of the Mohawk Valley, Steve stated, “As a young Mohawk Valley and learn work on together to take 623 Columbia St, Utica, player in the NFL and pro some fun and different home a little souvenir The Irish Cultural sports, you don’t know things about Irish culture. as a reminder of your NY. fun afternoon together. Center and the H.A.R.P. how long it’s gonna last The afternoon starts at 2 We will provide all the Museum are wheelchair or if you’re really gonna accessible and open to all. make it. She just went to school and got this great Please register for free on degree. For her to not Eventbrite by visiting our take a job in New York events calendar at iccmv. City in order to move org/events-calendar. out to San Diego, not

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good year. I asked her to move out to San Diego with me.” Rosanne did make the move but also found a job for herself.

Rosanne’s family still managed to go to the games. Steve commented, “She started going to away games with her parents in college, and that kind of transitioned to my NFL career, so that was big, especially when she moved to San Diego with me. Her parents would always meet her at away game cities. It kind of became a little thing for her and her parents to do.

They would meet up in random cities to see me play. She has probably been to every NFL stadium in the country. It knowing if I’d make it after was a good way to stay that year, was risky. After close because we were that season, things were living on the west coast, better, and I had a pretty and they were on the east coast.”

Steve has great memories from the Charger days, recalling, “We bought a house in San Diego, and I loved when everyone would come and visit us. After games and Please See NFL Page 17

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NFL From Page 16 after a win, being at home celebrating with your family, and having everybody around was enjoyable. Even on the day of the game, I always ate a steak before the game. It would be eight in the morning, and I’d be grilling a steak. I’d be eating my pre-game meal, and everyone was tailgating at the house.”

Steve found it relaxing to have family around before the game, saying, “If you are just sitting there by yourself with the stress of the game and the pressure of having to go out and perform.... it was a way to take your mind off things when you’re hanging out with your family, and they are enjoying it all.”

Steve, Rosanne, and the family would drive into the stadium and park in the player’s parking lot.

It was separated from the fans’ lot. Their family would be excited to see all of the players coming in.

After the games, all of the players would head back to the player’s parking lot, which was shielded

from the public. Steve stated, “We were a good team back then, and we won a lot. After games, everyone would be around their cars; trunks opened up, coolers out, and we’d all be hanging out in the parking lot. The players and the coaches would be there. After a win, the whole stadium cleared out, and we would celebrate together with players and families interacting. It was such an enjoyable time. Times were different back then.

People weren’t taking a lot of pictures and putting them on social media.”

They decided to get married during Steve’s last year in San Diego.

They came back to Syracuse for their wedding.

Names - L-R - First Row Brianna Yaghy, Dawna Crossman, Julia Allison, Michelle Teta, Ginger Countryman, Donna DeRosa, Eunice Hight, Naomi Gage, Lenore Signorelli, Jessica Bladek, Deborah Marucci, Linda Roche, Breanna Handy, Annalysse Guenthner.

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The Dolgeville Community Band, conducted by Katlin Wolford, performed at the Violet Festival in June and held concerts in July at Plowe Park in Dolgeville and at the New Hartford Community Band Festival at the Village Green in August in New Hartford.

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Rosanne’s mother, Maria’s maiden name, was Gregory, and she became Geraty when she wed. Rosanne’s maiden name was Geraty, and she became Gregory Please See NFL Page 18

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game, they would have a big meal under the when wed! What are the which a bunch of players stadium, in the tunnel chances? lived. Many of us players, with the players and their me, Wes Walker, and a families. You could take ~ New England Patriots couple of other friends whoever you wanted were living across the out onto the field. The In 2012 Gregory signed street from each other, stadium was cleared out, with the New England and it was fun! After and everyone was on the Patriots as a safety. games, we would all get field. People were taking together with the families pictures with the players, and kids were playing.

Steve and Rosanne there.”

That was pretty unique.” uprooted and bought a townhouse in Foxborough Rosanne remembers right behind the stadium. hanging out with many of I couldn’t let Steve get Steve stated, “New the players, Tom Brady away without asking him England was unique for one, and being a about the famous “Butt because there were little star-struck, but she Fumble,” which occurred communities right around eventually got used to it. on Thanksgiving Night 2012 in the second the stadium literally within walking distance. There Steve recalled, “A cool quarter of the game at were homes that were thing about the Patriots MetLife Stadium in East close to each other in was that after every Rutherford, New Jersey.

The Jets quarterback, Mark Sanchez, attempted to improvise off a broken play, ran upfield with the ball, and plowed into the backside of his own lineman, Brandon Moore. The collision flattened Sanchez, who fell backward and lost Contact me for all your real estate needs! the ball; Steve Gregory recovered it and ran it back for a touchdown.

NFL From Page 17

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commented, “The best thing about the Butt Fumble is that we were playing on Thanksgiving, which is football at its best. We were playing the prime-time game, and we were in New York playing against the Jets, which is my backyard... that’s where I grew up.

Everything about that day, the location, and the moment was just as good as it gets. That was probably the best game I ever had. When it happened, nobody knew it was a butt fumble. It was a play in the game in which I scored a touchdown. It wasn’t until later on the news media started calling it the Butt Fumble, and it took off.” Every year on Thanksgiving, the NFL plays the Butt Fumble footage, and Steve says he gets interviewed about it almost every year.

Rosanne remembers the excitement of that day before the game “Everyone was there, and a couple of players The Patriots blew out the came over. We had Jets, 49-19, in New York. Thanksgiving dinner from Tom Brady, Vince Wilfork, Boston Market in our and Steve Gregory were hotel room before, and awarded Player of the then we all went to the Game honors. Steve game. It was so much

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fun.”

Gregory was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs on July 31, 2014, but decided he didn’t want to continue playing football. He stated, “ I signed with them, went to training camp, and about ten or twelve days in, I decided I didn’t want to play anymore. I was getting older. My body was hurting. We just had a baby...all that stuff. I was exhausted from the physicality of the game.

So, I decided to retire.”

At the age of thirty-one in 2014, he announced his retirement from football. He ended his career with 357 tackles, seven interceptions, 25 defended passes, three sacks, and two touchdowns out of 111 NFL games.

Coaching Career ~ Syracuse Steve and Rosanne went back to Syracuse after he retired from playing.

They bought a house and planned on living there as they decided what direction to take next.

They had some real estate deals in the making. The following season, they had dinner at Syracuse head coach Scott Shafer’s home. Scott offered Steve a coaching job for Syracuse, and he took it. On June 4, 2015, the Syracuse athletic department announced Gregory would return as a special teams quality control coach. He spent the season coaching and thought, “I like it. I can do this. This is something I would be interested in pursuing.” During that time, Rosanne was home with a child and took over the real estate business Please See NFL Page 19

M O H A W K NFL From Page 18 end of things. She said he was gone a lot and stated, “When you are a coach, you work all the time. You don’t stay home if you are sick... you have to go.” After the season, Steve was let go. He explained, “ Unfortunately, at the time, they fired the athletic director, the head coach, and then the entire staff.”

Steve laughed. “I ended up getting fired from my alma mater!”

a big help for me with the girls and also is good company since he’s gone so much.” Both Rosanne & Steve agreed that it had been a good life.

Steve remarked, “It’s like a way of life. Every year it’s something new and something to look forward to. Someone to root for and cheer for. Everyone feels like they are part of that organization trying to go and win a super bowl. Every year that is refreshed when the new ~Detroit Lions season comes along, and there’s excitement about Steve was offered some it.” He was promoted to miscellaneous coaching defensive backs coach in jobs but decided to wait 2020. until the right offer came along, stating, “We didn’t In 2021, Gregory want to move the family joined the Dolphins as at the time if it wasn’t the a defensive assistant, right level of coaching. where he would reunite So the next two years, no with Dolphins head coach opportunities came along, Brian Flores who Steve and we just focused on knew as far back as high real estate. We stayed in school. Flores coached touch with people I know Gregory with the New who were in the coaching England Patriots, where and professional sports Flores was his Safeties world.” Matt Patrica, who coach. Steve said, “I’ve Steve was close with, got known ‘Flo’ for a long the head coaching job time, and he brought for the Detroit Lions. He me in.” When Steve left brought Steve to Detroit for Miami, Rosanne had as a defensive assistant just given birth to their coach. Rosanne was second child two weeks hesitant but felt she prior. She said, “It was needed to support during Covid, and I was Steve. She stated, “It’s alone in Detroit with the definitely a different life. two girls, getting one to A different world, playing school and having a new vs. coaching, as far as baby as well.” She was the time commitment, feeling the sacrifices of but I know it makes the job at that moment in him happy. I like to see time. everyone happy. Our family and friends come In 2022, Steve was to see us all the time retained by Mike when he’s coaching, and McDaniel and was I love that.” promoted to the Dolphins safeties coach.

She shared that it is difficult when Steve is Steve said he liked gone coaching. Her coaching for Miami and mom, Maria, stays with stated that it was also them during some of a fun city. He said, “We the winters. Rosanne didn’t win as much as stated, “She’s definitely we would’ve liked to. The

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first year was a rocky one.”

When Flores was fired, they kept Steve for another year, but he was let go in January 2023 when the head coach decided to change out the defensive coordinator whose job Steve was pretty much tied to. He explained, “We were kept there together like a package deal.”

Commenting on being let go, he stated, “This one was the toughest one so far.” He added, “Having been in this for a while now, we start to realize the instabilities of it. You don’t get sad because you lost your job. You get sad that you have to uproot your family.” They want their daughters to be happy and want to make the right choices going forward. Every time a new job comes along, they have to move the girls, and the girls have to make new friends, change schools, and re-adapt.

Steve stated, “Those are things we talk about a lot...what’s really worth it, what’s not worth it...do we want to keep doing this?” They love that their oldest daughter, Aviana, is so good at meeting people and socializing, but they still want to do what is best for her and her younger sister.

Rosanne explains that there is a lot to moving from one job to another in different cities. “There are highs and lows with the lifestyle. It’s everything.

People don’t think about it. It’s changing doctors, dentists, sounds silly, but even hairdressers.... everything in your life. You lose all of your friends.

You lose everything. It’s a weird feeling and very isolating. But, you have to keep going.” Still, they

Steve playing for the Chargers.

Following the game, Tom Brady, Steve Gregory, and Vince Wilfork were awarded Player of the Game honors. They were presented with John Madden’s favorite Thanksgiving day meal: the turducken (a chicken stuffed into a duck stuffed into a turkey).

both are very appreciative of the opportunities they have been given and realize that playing and coaching in the NFL has been a privilege.

Present Day

Steve and Rosanne are still living in Florida and are waiting to see what is next for them. They say they will live their life, enjoy their family, do real estate, and see what the future brings.

It became very apparent to me that this couple clearly loves their family more than anything in the world.

It has been a pleasure for me to hear and share their story.

I would suggest that we be on the lookout.... for you just might find Steve Gregory coaching your favorite team in the future!

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M O H A W K

V A L L E Y

SEPTEMBER 2023

E X P R E S S

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