An amazing company, right under our noses
By Dave Warner
If you had told me there was a company in Dolgeville that manufactured everything from hospital curtains to flak jackets, escape systems for oil rigs, and much more, I would have no clue who they were. And that’s exactly what I thought as I listened to Skip and Brenda Gehring speak about their company, called Gehring Tricot, Corp., at a recent event in the Village.
Brenda grew up in St. Johnsville, went to school here, and met Skip through a mutual friend. “He knew my family and knew Skip’s and kind of introduced us. As they say, the rest is history.”
She then moved to Long Island, where Skip was at 21. “I was raised here but grew up down there,” she said.
“There are so many experiences that I had on Long Island that really changed my life. It opened up my eyes and broadened my horizons.”
Brenda was interested in art and studied interior architectural design. “I was a stay-at-home mom for most of the initial years of my married life.”
The company originally made lace and curtains, and its sales and headquarters were on Long Island. “Most of our customers for what we were making at the time were in New York City. That’s what the business was in 1946,” Skip stated.
“My grandfather started this with his brother early on. Then, he started Gehring textiles, going off on his own,” he said.
In 1956, his grandfather purchased Helmont Mills
in St. Johnsville, and then in 1964, he purchased the building in Dolgeville as a dye house.
Skip is the third generation of management for the company, and all five of their children work there. “We’re on the fourth generation, and they all work in different areas, and none of them report directly to me,” Skip mentioned.
His father passed away in
Special art show planned at Main Street Mercantile for October 12th
By Dave Warner
Kali Kat Schafer is spearheading an Art Show on October 12, 2024, from 6 to 9 pm at Main Street Mercantile in Little Falls centered around survivors of domestic abuse, sexual assault, and childhood abuse. The YWCA will be there with an informational booth as a show of support and alliance to showcase the cause and support anyone who shows up that night, seeking an outlet for a harmful situation they might be in.
2001, and the company now has four times as many employees as it had back then. “We’ve grown the company through purchases and just our own internal growth.”
Skip spent six years in the Navy, and a year in Germany working for a company that makes the textile machines that they are using today in St. Johnsville. His father wanted him to have that experience to transition
Schafer is originally from Oregon but has lived in New York State for the past twenty years and has lived in Little Falls for the last ten years.
“I’ve always been a creative type with my nose in a book, and I’m very passionate about animals as well.”
That love for animals has allowed her to become a professional dog groomer. She’s also a writer and photographer and has had shows at Main Street Mercantile herself.
Her interest in photography came about because she had been an avid hiker but came down with lyme disease. “I was looking for a way to feel really immersed in nature but not necessarily push my body the way I had in the past,” she stated.
“When you’re looking through the lens, that’s all you see.”
the company from laces and curtains to the highly technical things that they do today.
“When the free trade agreements hit in the mid90s, there were thirteen other mills up here that were doing what we did, and they’re all gone. We’re the only one left. There were 1.2 million textile workers then, and it fell to 286,000.”
One of her subjects for the camera has been the sculpture in old cemeteries. “I’ve traveled a lot to photograph rural and garden cemeteries in this country. They’re teeming with life because they’re a sanctuary for trees and animals. They’re not going to get bulldozed over next month for a new apartment complex.”
She felt that some of the epitaphs she’d seen on stones had spoken to her, and she found out that in the late 1800s, there was a whole school of people called ‘the graveyard poets.’ “These were people you’d hire to write your epitaph. I thought that was really interesting. Also the way that the epitaphs reflected society at the time was really interesting as well.”
Schafer said that she was hooked on photography
Photo by Dave Warner - Kali Kat Schafer is organizing an art show at Main Street Mercantile in Little Falls, on October 12, 2024 from 6-9 pm.
Photo by Dave Warner - Skip and Brenda Gehring, owners of Gehring Tricot, Corp. in Dolgeville. Please See NOSES Page 3
because it gave her a way to express her perspective on people and things. “I also really got into photographing birds—they are just so beautiful, and there’s a certain stillness required to capture them.”
She said that she just got hooked on photography because it allowed her to become immersed in this world. “It gave me a similar feeling as when I would climb these high peaks and get to the summit.”
The upcoming show on the 12th, is also something that Schafer is very passionate about. “This is huge for me. There is a movement called ‘Take Back the Night,’ which is something that I have attended for many years now. October is domestic violence awareness month, which is why we’re having this show this month.”
The show is for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. “I think we all know that this is a big problem in our society - that there are a lot of people walking around
that have suffered these kinds of abuses.”
She remarked that thanks to the ‘Me Too Movement,’ it’s really been brought to the forefront of people’s minds.
“I feel like when I speak to other survivors or just people in the community, the thing that keeps coming up is, we know this is a problem, but what can we do to help? How can we help people?” she stated.
That got her to thinking about something that she might be able to do, and she came up with this idea of an art show. “Let’s give survivors a moment to show something that they’ve made. It doesn’t have to be about their abuse. We’re not just survivors, we’re people and there’s so much more to people than their life experiences,” she stated.
Schafer said that many artists use their craft for healing purposes.
“I also wanted this to be a community outreach opportunity because there are a lot of services
out there that people don’t know about. I’ve personally benefited from counseling through the YWCA, and there’s counseling for folks who just can’t afford it.”
The YWCA will be at the show, and they’re also going to have some folks from Cornell there as well. “We’ll also have some information about programs that are offered through Catholic Charities. Between these programs, there are a lot of resources for people. Whether you’re in an abusive relationship and you don’t have housing, or whether it’s counseling.”
“I was hoping to create an event to not only honor survivors but educate anyone who comes to the show about these resources,” she said.
Schafer believes the biggest resource we have is community. “It doesn’t cost anything. All we have to do is put forth a little bit of heart. Acceptance, community, and support are foundational to people being well.”
“We’re calling the show Solidarity. I wanted
everyone who comes there to know you are seen, loved, and not alone. We’re holding space for you.”
Even if you’re not personally affected, you know someone who has experienced this or has heard of someone who has experienced it. “It’s such a widespread epidemic in our society.”
She feels that just showing up to an art show is a way to show your interest in the subject and to help with the healing. “We see who you are through your art and what you’re bringing into this world.”
There is a mixture of art, with several artists showing their work. Some are local, and one is even from NYC.
“I’ve been so grateful and happy with the response I’ve gotten from people who want to participate,” she stated.
They’ll be photography, oil painting, and sculpture.
She said she’s also thankful for Alexandra Tamburro and Main Street Mercantile. “It’s an amazing resource that we have in our community. That space she has created is gorgeous.”
“This is something we both feel strongly about, and it’s only going to benefit our community,” she remarked.
The show opens on October 12th and runs through the first week of November. Find out more by visiting Main Street Mercantile on Facebook.
Lunch & Learn - Samhain: Irish Halloween Origins & Traditions
Join us at The H.A.R.P. Museum at the Irish Cultural Center of the Mohawk Valley on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at 11:00 am for a presentation on Irish Halloween Origins & Traditions. After the program you can enjoy a delicious lunch in the beautiful Five Points Pub designed and built by
Dublin craftsmen.
In modern Ireland and Scotland, the name by which Halloween is known in the Gaelic language is still Oíche Shamhna. According to Celtic lore, Samhain is a time when the boundaries between the world of the living and the world of Please See IRISH Page 6
Their focus today is on defense contracts, medical, and other specialities, and they have 260-270 employees.
“We have locations in Dolgeville and St. Johnsville, but also Fall River, Massachusetts, and Tampa, Florida. Presently, I’m in various stages of negotiation with three of our competitors who are strugglingdiscussing a merger with ours,” he said.
Skip said that being the oldest son in the family, his path had been pretty much established for him. When he was young, he’d come up and work in the factory in Dolgeville and live with some of the employees.
“That was all part of my growth. When I got out of the Navy, I spent my first five or six years working in the factory on the floor in each of the respective businesses.”
He said the goal wasn’t to learn to be the best mechanic but to figure out how to retool it for a different path. “During the last six years, we’ve probably put over $15 million into upgrades and changing what we’re doing, and that doesn’t include the acquisitions.”
With that, everything they do now is custom for each of their customers. In many cases, military contracts are solesourced because of what and how they do things.
“From ballistics to military firefighting apparel to battle dress uniforms, to tactical vests, and camouflage for soldiers.”
“All of the NFL uniforms are custom-made by us, and we’re the only ones in the world that can do it because we’re using recycled yarn and dying that yarn - nobody else does it,” stated Skip.
Even items like chainsaw chaps are created by the company.
Skip said that when competing with overseas companies, leadership has to be actively involved in what is happening on the floor.
“All of the officers of the company, including my wife, have to be active in understanding what we’re doing. Then, you really have to understand
the customers.”
He also said they compete by going one step further on the supply chain. “The company that we purchased in Florida is an end-product manufacturer.” They are now part of the Gehring Tricot chain.
During the pandemic, they were one of the few companies ordered to stay open by the Pentagon because of the nature of what they made.
Another of the more amazing products they make involves soldiers and the clothing they wear under their gear when in combat situations.
“The problem in the past was that you’d get IEds that go off and give massive cuts to our soldiers from shrapnel. Eighty percent of the limbs that got amputated were because the underarmor melted, and they couldn’t get it out. It was like candle wax around the veins, so they had to amputate the limb,” Skip said.
So, they developed a fiber and fabric that, when hit with an IEd, will turn to ash, like a cigarette. “You can hose it out and save the limb.”
They also make a fabric that goes behind bulletproof vests. This fabric absorbs trauma, helping prevent broken ribs and other damage to the body. “Most of what we do here is just that specialized.”
Skip also said that the biggest killer in the world is the mosquito, and they’re the only company in the country that is putting a proven mosquito/bug repellent that kills them on contact, into their fabric.
“That’s saving lives also, and that’s kind of what we do here,” he stated.
When asked what the ‘coolest’ product they make is, Brenda said they are always trying to ‘out-cool’ each other. Her favorite story is a jacket that was sitting on the table in front of me. “We made that fabric, and it went to the end product manufacturer. Then, it went to a soldier who wore it in the field every day for six months. He sent it back to the company and told them he wanted it to return because he wanted them to know how well it was done.”
“They sent it back to us so that we would know how well it wore,” she said. To me, the jacket looked brand new, like it had just come off the rack.
“What we’re able to do is develop some really special fabrics,” Skip said.
The company also makes uniforms for the Herkimer College cross-country team and the Mohawk Valley Diamond Dawgs.
They have also entered the sustainability area, working directly with NYSERDA on energy
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reduction and efficiency and wastewater recycling.
“We’re working to take a load off the grid, reducing the amount of electricity being used,” Skip said.
To stay competitive, the company is now actively recruiting local talent. They hadn’t previously needed to market the company in the area.
“Now, things have changed since I’ve taken over. Getting people to stay is hard because they’re always revolving.”
“We want to let people know that there are a lot of opportunities for growth with our company. We need floor manufacturing people, all the way up to electricians, maintenance, machine operators, engineers, and chemists between
Dolgeville and St. Johnsville,” Skip said. “We do a lot of in-house training of people.”
Brenda said that not everyone needed a college degree to work there. “If we find someone with an aptitude towards maintenance, we’ll train them.”
“I studied engineering in college but learned it in the Navy,” Skip stated.
Last summer, they had an intern program for 14-19-year-olds, and 38 students were involved in it. Brenda couldn’t do that this year because of her daughter’s wedding, but she plans to have the program
Photo by Dave Warner - An array of products made by Gehring Tricot, Corp.
Please See NOSES Page 5
City of Little Falls
October 1, 2024
Common Council Meeting—Auditing of the bills: 6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting: 7:00 p.m. in City Hall.
October 12, 2024
Opening reception for Tony Thompson and Adam Spiridilozzi at the Mohawk Valley Center for the Arts from 2 - 4 pm.
October 16, 2024
Golf Commission Meeting—Regular Meeting: 8:00 a.m. at the golf course.
October 21, 2024
Recreation/Harbor—
Regular Session 6:00 p.m. in the Mayor’s Conference room at City Hall.
October 21, 2024
Board of Public Works Meeting—Bills 6:30 pm and Regular Session 7:00 pm in the Mayor’s Conference room in City Hall.
October 22, 2024
Zoning Board of Appeals—Zaida Project, 6 p.m., in the Mayor’s Conference Room in City Hall.
October 23, 2024
Urban Renewal Board Meeting—Regular Session, 8 a.m., in the Mayor’s Conference Room in City Hall.
October 31, 2024 Halloween in Little Falls5-7 pm.
Little Falls Elks
October 13, 2024
Fall Craft Fair 11 am - 4 pm. Inside and outside, handmade items & direct sales vendors. 50/50
raffle & basket raffle.
October 25, 2024
Halloween Party starting at 7 pm. Music buy DJ Breezy, food & drinks, costume contest. Members free, guests $5.00.
Dolgeville
Farmers’ Market every Saturday in October from 9 AM - 1 PM at Plowe Park.
October 5, 2024
Dolgeville Methodist Church Chicken BBQ Drive Thru – 3 p.m. until sold out.
October 11, 2024
Painting Pumpkins @ Auskerada Place – 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
October 17, 2024
Dolgeville Forward meeting - 6:30 PM, location TBA. Check the Dolgeville Forward Facebook page for more information.
October 26, 2024
Farmers’ Market
Customer Appreciation Day. We will have free hot dogs, hot chocolate, a fire pit with marshmallows, and more.
October 31, 2024
Village of Dolgeville Trick or Treat – 5-7 p.m.
Herkimer
Arc herkimer Farmer’s Market - The pop-up market will be open every Wednesday from May 15 through October 16 at the Gail W. Brown Center, located at 411 Folts Street in Herkimer. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities supported by
Arc Herkimer will oversee the market, which will be open to the public from 10:00 am until 1:00 pm each Wednesday.
October 8, 2024
DRI LPC Meeting #5 from 4-6 pm at Herkimer Community College, Robert McLaughlin College Center Room CC 282/283. The outcome of this meeting is to create the final slate of recommended projects for the Herkimer RI Strategic Investment Plan.
Fort Plain
October 13, 2024
Open House and Tour at Isaac Paris House
Enjoy a visit into the past at the Open House and Tour of the 1786 Isaac Paris House, located BEHIND 105 Mohawk St., Fort Plain, NY, on Sunday, October 13, between 2 and 4 p.m.
The house was originally built as a trading post and dwelling for Isaac Paris, Jr. He became head of his family at the tender age of 16 when his father and brother were killed at the Battle of Oriskany.
There will be a program on Saving the U.S.S. Slater, the last Destroyer Escort from WWII docked at the Port of Albany on the Hudson River.
thrilled to announce a lineup of engaging events for October that cater to art lovers, genealogy enthusiasts, mystery seekers, and community advocates. Join us for a series of programs designed to educate, entertain, and enrich our local heritage.
Watercolor Painting Class
Date: Monday, October 14, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM
Cost: $25 per person (All supplies included)
Seating: Limited availability!
Reserve your seat now! Join local artist Vicki for an inspiring watercolor painting class. Vicki has selected a new picture to guide participants in this creative journey. No experience is necessary—just bring your enthusiasm!
Roots and Research
Genealogy Course
Class Dates: October 10, 17, 24; November 7, 14, 21
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: Historical Society, 406 N. Main St, Herkimer Cost: $60 (with Ancestry Membership); $80 (includes Ancestry Membership)
Class Size: Limited to 12 participants
for the missing leading lady, Frangelica, and her manager, Teddy “10%” Tardugno. Enjoy dinner before the thrilling search begins. A production by Cynthia Quackenbush.
Brooks’ BBQ Chicken Dinner
Date: Friday, October 18, 2024
Time: 3:30 PM
Location: 320 North Prospect Street, Herkimer, NY
Note: Drive-thru Pick-up ONLY; tickets must be presented at pick-up. Grab your BBQ chicken dinner with ease! Purchase tickets early at HCHS (406 North Main Street), call 315-8666413 or visit our website.
Book Talk: American Community by Mark Ferrara
Discover the journey of intentional communities that challenge mainstream notions of the American Dream. Mark Ferrara’s thoughtprovoking book explores the rich history of communal living, emphasizing harmony, equality, and social justice. Don’t miss this enlightening discussion!
Fall Raffle
Drawing Date: November 9, 2024
Prizes:
1st Prize: Handmade Crocheted Quilt (approx. 6ft x 6ft)
The open house, tours, and program are sponsored by the Fort Plain Chapter, NS Daughters of the American Revolution, to commemorate the 134th anniversary of the society’s founding on October 11, 1890. Exciting October Events at the Herkimer County Historical Society
The Herkimer County Historical Society is
Unlock your family history with our sixweek genealogy course, perfect for advanced beginners to intermediate researchers. Explore techniques and resources to enhance your genealogical research skills.
Murder Mystery: Curtains for Frangelica
Date: October 12, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM (Dinner), 6:00 PM (Search Begins)
Location: Herkimer Elks, 124 Mary St, Herkimer, NY
Join us for an evening of intrigue as we search
2nd Prize: Handmade Crocheted “Sofa” Throw (approx. 3ft x 5ft) and Pillow
Tickets: 1 for $5.00 or 3 for $10.00
Tickets are available for purchase at HCHS and provide a chance to win beautiful handmade items crafted by our HCHS Legacy Loopers Yarn Craft Group.
Join us this October for a month of creativity, exploration, and community spirit Call 315-866-6413 for details.
Little Falls Public Library Calendar
Crossman
Names - L to R - First Row - Donna DeRosa, Dawna Crossman, Mary Brown, Lenore Signorelli, Ginger Countryman, Naomi Gage, Amy Haas, Linda Roche, Anthony Lyon, Jessica Bladek, Lillian Bladek, Briana Randall, Michelle Teta, Anna Thayer, Ashley Robotham, Deborah Marucci, CONDUCTOR- Katlin Wolford.
Second Row - Erin Thayer, Brianna Yaghy, Anthony Dangler, Nicholas Mosher, Andrea Vance, Barry Gage, Emma Gage, Gretchen Neary, Peter Holmes, Brennan Bladek, Darian Howe, Nancy Schuyler, Karlie Vokins, Annalysse Guenthner.
Third Row - Bob Harvey, Harrison Zogby, Aaron Baldwin, Mark Case, Francis Roche, Philip Nash, Jade Broat, Hannah Getman, Jaron Case, Ryan Simpson, James Pierce, Colin Comstock, Shaad Madison, Gary Bush.
Dolgeville Community Band Season a wrap
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. Also, at the New Hartford Community Band Festival in August at the New Hartford
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again and accommodate approximately twenty students next year.
“It was a learning experience for all of us,” Brenda said. “All of our employees were really
Recreation Center in New Hartford. And the Little Falls Public Library, Community Concert Series, sponsored by the Central New York Community Arts Council, in August at the Little Falls Public Library in Little Falls.
accepting of the kids.” To find out more about the company, you can visit its website at http://www. gehring-tricot.com/, call 315-429-8551, or email gtsales@gehringtextiles. com.
SENIOR MEALS FOR OCTOBER
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.
Oct 01 - Fish on a bun, stewed tomatoes, oven roasted potatoes, applesauce.
Oct 02 - Chicken and biscuits, mashed potatoes, peas, pudding.
Oct 03 - Ziti with meatballs, tossed salad, garlic roll, sugar cookie.
Oct 04 - Turkey dinner with gravy, stuffing, Brussels sprouts, pineapple.
Oct 07 - Cream of broccoli soup, chicken salad sandwich, three-bean salad, cookie.
Oct 08 - Hamburger cabbage casserole, beets, corn, Mandarin oranges.
Oct 09 - Oktoberfest, sauerbraten, German potato salad, zucchini, black forest cake.
Oct 10 - Chicken in lemon sauce, seasoned noodles, broccoli, no bake cake.
Oct 11 - Egg bake, hash browns, sausage, muffin, fruit cup.
Oct 14 - Columbus Day - no meal.
Oct 15 - Sweet sausage with peppers and onions, seasoned noodles, squash, brownie.
Oct 16 - Lasagna, tossed salad, Italian blend vegetables, pudding.
Oct 17 - Chicken and wild rice casserole, spinach, red cabbage, apple brown Betty.
Oct 18 - Hamburger deluxe, O’Brien potatoes, peas, peanut better cookie.
Oct 21 - Beef stew with vegetables, biscuit, peaches.
Oct 22 - Chicken parmesan, rotini in sauce, green beans, frosted birthday cake.
Oct 23 - Cream of spinach soup, turkey sandwich, carrot raisin salad, fresh apple.
Oct 24 - Pulled pork on a bun, baked beans, cauliflower, cookie.
Oct 25 - Chili con carne, carrots, corn bread, tropical fruit.
Oct 28 - Chicken marsala, noodles, baby lima beans, apple crisp.
Oct 29 - Ham with scalloped potatoes, broccoli, fruit cocktail.
Oct 30 - Tuna noodle casserole, corn, green beans, frosted cupcake.
Oct 31 - Yankee pot roast, roasted potatoes, carrots, pudding parfait.
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.
Photo & Story by Dawna
New Herkimer County Vets Center opens in Ilion
By Donna Thompson Herkimer
County’s military veterans looking for services from the county’s Veterans’ Services Agency, a place to meet with other veterans, or even somewhere to relax can now do all of those things at the new Herkimer County Veterans Community Center in Ilion.
And, in addition to a new home for the county’s Veterans’ Services Agency, the center comes with the addition of the Joseph P. Dwyer Veterans Peer Support Project, a program to help veterans transition back into civilian life.
A grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Wednesday afternoon at the 25 Central Plaza location, and those in attendance agreed that the center is a needed facility.
“This is a great thing. It’s a monumental day
for Herkimer County,” said Herkimer County Legislator Robert Schrader, who serves as chairman of the Veterans Administration Committee. “This has needed to happen for years. We all know that freedom is not free, and we need to support those who have given us that freedom.”
State Assemblyman Brian Miller recalled how his uncle used to say he had “done the trifecta” as he flew in three wars. “We need to do all we can for our veterans,” he added.
“It’s a vision I had,” said Herkimer County Veterans’ Service Agency Director Richard Louis, who saw the need for a building dedicated “to us as veterans,” as he addressed the county officials, veterans, and others who gathered at Central Plaza for the opening. Louis himself is a retired veteran, having served nearly 24 years in the Air Force.
The new veterans’ center, located in a building that once housed a dental office, fulfills his vision. Veterans can come to the new location to request help from the Veterans’ Services Agency with disability claims, pensions, health care benefits or connecting with a Veterans Administration hospital or clinic, financial support, property tax exemptions, requesting military records, burial benefits, and more. But they can also stop in just to have a cup of coffee or watch television, said Louis.
While the center’s hours will run from 8 to 4, the dedicated space will offer the flexibility that will allow meetings of groups of veterans to take place at other times, according to Louis.
And those opportunities are among the plans for the center, with the addition of the Joseph P. Dwyer Veterans Peer Support Project.
Dwyer, who served in the Iraq war, was famous for a photo taken of him helping an ailing Iraqi boy. He struggled after returning to civilian life, though, said Louis, and died as a result of an overdose of prescription medication. It is hoped that the program that bears his name will assist veterans facing challenges with PostTraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), thoughts of suicide, or mental health problems caused or exacerbated by their experiences in the military to adjust to civilian life.
The peer-to-peer program was launched in 2012 in Suffolk County and is now offered in a number of
counties throughout New York State with funding provided by the state. It aims to reduce veteran isolation and associated mental health issues by having participants meet with fellow veterans in secure, comfortable settings, according to the New York State website. The Association for Mental Health and Wellness website states that the program “has steadily demonstrated that the peer-to-peer model holds tremendous untapped value as a tool for helping veterans transition and reintegrate back into civilian life.”
The new center is handicapped accessible with parking spaces nearby. Once plans for the center were set in motion, work on the building began in June, according to Louis.
MVCA showcases a visual arts collaboration between Tony Thompson and Adam Spiridilozzi
Adam is a multi-media artist from Utica New York that has spent his artistic career exploring all forms of artistic expression.
He sees the creation of art as a psycho-cosmic experience, exploring the relation of the inner self (psyche) and the external world (cosmos), in which un-traversed mental/emotional/ spiritual realms or states are brought into ‘art-form’ through the lens of self.
Tony Thompson is an Upstate NY based visual artist who grew up in Baldwinsville and currently resides
in Utica. In 2003 Tony started gaining attention in the community for his vivid, unique style, often featuring distorted characters and urban expressions of his life experiences. Thompsons work is characterized by its bold color schemes balanced by a bit of raw edge, inviting viewers to step into a surrealist world of street art.
Join us on October 12th for the Opening Reception for Tony Thompson and Adam Spiridilozzi at 2:00 PM at MVCA, 401 – 403 Canal Street, Little Falls, NY 13365. Phone: 315823-0808.
the dead become
allowing spirits and other supernatural entities to pass between the worlds to socialize with humans. It is the time of the year when ancestors and other departed souls are especially honored.
At this program you learn how some of Ireland’s most ancient Samhain traditions have evolved over the centuries to what we now know as Halloween.
The program will be presented by traditional Irish musician and Gaeilge student Michael Hoke.
A $20 registration fee will cover the program and lunch; meal tax and gratuity are included. Please register by calling 315-733-4228
Photo by Donna Thompson - Lee Watkins, a Vietnam War veteran, cuts the ribbon during the grand opening ceremony for the new Herkimer County Veterans Community Center at 25 Central Plaza in Ilion.
Photo by Donna Thompson - A banner on the outside of the new Herkimer County Veterans Community Center in Ilion’s Central Plaza welcomes local veterans.
Photo Walk group starting in Little Falls
By Dave Warner
There are many photographers in Little Falls and more than you might realize since every modern smartphone has a pretty good camera. Karin Boepple is the first one that comes to mind for me. She’s always walking and posts images almost every day. She sees many things that most of us miss because we’re either too busy, not paying attention, or not up when she is to capture those special moments.
Others, like myself, walk around all the time, taking pictures and telling everyone how beautiful Little Falls and the surrounding Mohawk Valley are, but they don’t stop to smell the roses and showcase that beauty. It’s one thing to cover an event; it’s another to just slow down, walk around, and look for something unique.
The displays at Ann Street
Deli & Restaurant (right) are always spectacular, but who captures them in a unique way and highlights them? A lot of us tend to focus on the river but look closer. Even as we get deep into fall, there are still flowers and interesting things to photograph that you don’t see whizzing by in a car.
So now’s the time to band together, get the best images we can, and learn a little bit in the meantime. I’ve had this idea for a while, but I talked to Kali Kat Schafer a couple of weeks ago about a story, and she reminded me of it.
But what exactly is a photo walk, and how will this work? It’s simply a group of people who want to get together and walk different specific routes, taking the best pictures that they can. Each person can help others take pictures during and after the walk, passing
on their knowledge and experience. It’s an easy, non-threatening way to teach your friends or others interested in photography some of the things that you’ve learned.
It’s a way to see things from a different and new perspective, but just being out and looking around will improve your ‘ability to see,’ which is extremely important when taking pictures.
Each month, we start at a different location and walk a specific route. Afterward, we return to the office at 25 W Mill Street, where we download and look at the images, edit, critique, or even post them online for everyone to see.
You can bring anything from simple to complex gear. It’s totally up to you. Just the smartphone in your pocket? That’s good enough. Do you have a 35mm camera and want to bring a tripod? That’s
Historical Marker Dedicated at Frisbie House in Salisbury
Story
and
photos by Carol Vogel
On Sunday, September 22, the Salisbury Historical Society held a dedication ceremony at the Frisbie House. After many years, a historical roadside marker was unveiled to celebrate this important local home.
Nora Cool-Guinup, president of the Historical Society, led the dedication. She spoke of the home’s history, the great restoration project, and the dedication of the volunteers and members as they continue to care for the Frisbie House.
“We, the members of the Salisbury Historical Society, dedicate this sign to those who volunteered their time to restore and preserve this house for future generations. We applaud those volunteers who are still with us today and those who have passed and thank them for all their dedicated work. We have this beautiful home for the Historical Society to showcase our history and educate about the past.” Before unveiling the marker, Nora also introduced a special guest, “We have Mrs. Carlin here today, if you do not know, she was the project Manager of the restoration project!”
The unveiling was a proud moment for all involved and attending, especially for former Society President, Elaine Carlin.
The Frisbie House is a Federal-style home built in 1805 - 1806 by Bilious Avery for Augustus Frisbie. Inhabited as a single-family dwelling and including land used for farming, the home had many owners. After 1914 the Tanner family turned the home into a two-family apartment house.
According to the Salisbury Historical Society, “In 1981, the Salisbury Historical Society took title to the property because it is the oldest frame building still standing in Salisbury and to provide a home for the society
and its collectors.”
The Society hosts a special installation each year along with its regular collection of local artifacts, furniture, art and lifestyle. This year’s installation is honoring Local Military Veterans and will be on display until November 2024.
Restoration Project:
There was a large amount of work to do to restore the Frisbie back to its original configuration. Volunteers, with the leadership of Elaine Carlin, worked to take out partitions, two kitchens and bathrooms as well as a second set
fine, too. Do you want to shoot video instead of images? That’s highly encouraged as well.
Is it raining on the day of the photo walk? In my mind, colors are more vibrant on rainy days. The water drops on leaves and flowers, as well as the falling rain, all add to the impact of the photographs.
Here are some final thoughts: Wear the appropriate clothes and shoes. You don’t want to have blisters or be too cold or wet. Make sure you
sign up for the free walks at creativeoutpost.org/ events now since we’re keeping this to about 14 people each time. We’ve got them scheduled for October, November, and December.
When you post images online as part of this group, use #LittleFallsPhotoWalk to let people see them. Ultimately, this is about having fun, reducing stress, and improving your mood. Think of it as a private retreat where creativity and relaxation meet.
of stairs. Research was an important part of the restoration process to determine the original layout of the home. Information was found to help construct chair railings, walls and flooring. Wallpaper and original paint colors were noted as the walls were stripped and repaired.
With over 50 volunteers working on the restoration for over 8 years, it was
no small feat. Work included foundation wall re-pointing, replacing cedar clapboards on 3 sides of the house, 19 window restorations, a new roof, insulation and central heating installation. Local craftsman and technical professionals aided in this endeavor creating a community wide restoration project.
Please See Frisbie Page 8
Photo by Dave Warner - one of several images taken in a 30 minute period, within 100 yards of my office.
Augustus Frisbie House, Home of the Salisbury Historical Society.
The Frisbie House
From Page 7
“Not only were there people who did the physical work on the house but there were many people behind the scenes looking for grants and fundraising as it cost thousands of dollars to do this project,” explained Nora. Nora mentioned that during the project, Elaine kept a journal for the Society detailing the work that was done each day. She also took many photos as the work progressed. Serving as a record of how the restoration was done step by step, these are great resources for the society moving forward. Nora added, “Over 12,000 hours went into this restoration project!”
On display were images of the project from beginning to end showing the incredible amount of work it took to restore the home.
Historic Marker
The Historical Society
applied to the Pomeroy Foundation for the sign. It took some time after the sign was delivered before it could be installed at the Frisbie House. Nora said that while the sign had been approved, completed, and delivered in 2020, with Covid and other delays, they were only now able to place it and hold the dedication ceremony.
The William G Pomeroy Foundation provides grant assistance for historical marker signage. According to their website, “Our grants are open to 501(c)(3) organizations, nonprofit academic institutions and local, state and federal government entities.”
“The William G. Pomeroy Foundation is committed to supporting the celebration of the preservation of community history and working to improve the probability of finding appropriate
donor matches or other life-saving treatments for blood and cancer patients. Established by Trustee Bill Pomeroy in 2005 to bring together his two greatest passions, The Pomeroy Foundation is a private philanthropic organization located in Syracuse, NY. As the nation’s leading funder of historical roadside markers, the Pomeroy Foundation has awarded more than 2,400 grants for markers and bronze plaques in 48 states and Washington, D.C. To learn more about the Pomeroy Foundation, visit www. wgpfoundation.org.”
Commemorating History
Antique Appraisal Day at Norway History Center
By Carol Vogel
On Sunday, October 20th, bring in your treasures for appraisal at the Norway History Center located at 1067 Newport-Gray Road. Leigh Keno (of Antiques Roadshow fame and Keno Auctions) and Mark Reardon (Reardon Enterprises, Antique Historian, and Vintage Car Collector) specialize in Early American Antiques, including furniture, stoneware, bottles, folk art, Petrolina, vintage signs, tools, and all things automotive. Don’t miss this rare chance to speak with these professional antique historians regarding your family heirlooms and antiques!
related to the local area.
The blue sign with yellow lettering is a familiar sight as you travel the roads here in the Mohawk Valley and signifies the importance of the Historic landmarks they highlight. This marker speaks to the hard work and dedication of the volunteers and members of the Salisbury Historical Society and the community that supports their effort to preserve the area’s rich history for future generations.
The Frisbie House is located at 109 Route 29A in Salisbury Center, NY. It is open Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m., weekly from June to November. Please call 315-429-8030 to make an appointment or schedule a group tour. For more information, visit the Salisbury Historical Society on Facebook
The appraisal event runs from 2 to 5 p.m., and admission and appraisals are free. Refreshments will be served. Donations are always appreciated, and they help fund the Norway Historical Society and its mission of preserving the local past for future generations.
Upcoming Events: The Norway Historical Society will have a booth at the West Canada Valley Central School’s Craft Fair on November 19th, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Their Historical Stores 2025 Calendar, all their publications, and much more will be available!
About the Norway Historical Society
The Norway Historical Society is housed in the former Baptist Church at 1067 Newport-Gray Road. The History Center provides a space to preserve and house historical documents
From the Society: “The Norway Baptist Church was built in 1830 by Robert Crandall on land that Dudley Smith deeded to the Church. The Church operated until 1977 when the pastor died. The remaining members could not find another pastor or the funding to pay a full-time pastor and make necessary repairs to the building. In 1997, Helen Wheatley spearheaded a citizens group to save the 1830 Baptist Church. The town acquired the property in 2001 and formed a Historical Commission to manage and preserve the building, collect and organize records and artifacts, and disseminate the history of the town to local residents. The building was dedicated in November of 2002 as the Norway History Center. The first floor now contains many records, photographs, and family historical sketches. Military records and much more from the early days of Norway to the present. The sanctuary on the second floor is available for weddings and other special occasions. The church is listed on the State Register of Historic Places and the National Register of Historic Places. The Norway Historical Society was chartered in 2007.”
The Historical Society is open seasonally (springfall) on Sundays and Mondays from 1-4 pm. Please call 315-868-8405 for tours at alternate times. Visit their Facebook page for more information.
Norway Baptist Church, Home of Norway History Center.
Photo provided by Norway Historical Society