The heart of the Mohawk Valley helps those in need

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Travel to any city, town or village throughout the Mohawk Valley and you’ll find communities working hard to bring people together. This month, we’ve come across different ways that communities and businesses alike are doing what they can to really show the heart of the Mohawk Valley.

Little Falls 30 Days of Thoughtfulness

Small business owners throughout the City of Little Falls is in the middle of a month-long effort to collect, and in some cases, match donations to help local not-for-profit organizations as we head into the holiday season.

“Our business partners have each selected a not-for-profit to support. At each business location, canisters for your donations & posters about the organization, will be available throughout November.

We are a small, but generous community. Please help us support those organizations who do so much for this community and others.”

– Think Local Little Falls 30 Days of Thoughtfulness Third Thursday brochure

Businesses throughout Little Falls are collected donations to help pets, the local food pantry, community outreach and so many more.

Download the brochure for a list of participating businesses and who they’re sponsoring.

Dolgeville Flood Victims’ Fund

The not-for-profit, Dolgeville Forward, is doing so much to help the victims of the October 31 – November 1 flood. The catastrophic flooding on North Main Street and along the East Canada Creek caused many to leave their homes and everything they owned because of the rising water. Many homeowners are unable to return to their homes because of safety reasons. The excerpt below is from the Dolgeville Forward Go Fund Me page.

To donate to the Dolgeville Flood Victims Fund, go to the Dolgeville Forward Go Fund Me page.

Dolgeville Forward,Dolgeville NY November 9, 2019b

“Over twenty residences were affected, many of them now uninhabitable; several homes will likely be total losses.  Residents in flooded homes lost everything in their cellars and garages and on the first floors of their homes.  Many homeowners cannot return to their homes and have had to find alternative living arrangements.  Several of those affected are renters and resources available to them are scarce.   Now, to make things even worse, weather has turned prematurely cold, it is snowing, and most of the homes are not connected to power, natural gas, or water.  

  Dolgeville Forward, Inc. has established a Go Fund Me page to process donations, which will be deposited in the Dolgeville Forward 2019 Flood Victims’ Fund account for disbursement to flood victims to assist them in recovery.”

– Dolgeville Forward Go Fund Me page

For more information about the flood recovery efforts, visit the Dolgeville Forward Facebook page.

Stuff the Bus at Wakefield Furniture

Stuff the Bus Toy Drive at Wakefield Furniture | Herkimer NY | Mohawk Valley Today

Wakefield Furniture is kicked off the Stuff the Bus events on Saturday, November 16, at 138 N. Main Street Herkimer, NY.

This annual toy drive gives all of us an opportunity to donate unwrapped toys that will be distributed by local charities to children throughout the Mohawk Valley.

Do you have a story to share about the great things happening the in the Mohawk Valley? Let us know!

Stuff the Bus Toy Drive at Wakefield Furniture | Herkimer NY | Mohawk Valley Today

Stuff the Bus Toy Drive at Wakefield Furniture in Herkimer

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The 12th Annual Fidelis Care Stuff the Bus Toy Drive is kicking off the events this year on Saturday, November 16, at Wakefield Furniture on 138 North Main Street in Herkimer. This annual toy drive has collected over 100,000 toys over the past 10 years to give to local charities. Each year, the collected toys are then given out to kids throughout the Mohawk Valley by the local charities. This annual toy drive has collected over 100,000 toys over the past 10 years! Each year, the collected toys are given out to children throughout the Mohawk Valley by the local charities.

Wakefield Furniture sponsors Stuff the Bus

During a recent stop at Wakefield Furniture, we were happy to talk with John about the Stuff the Bus drive. He told us that he’d just received the Stuff the Bus toy collection box that they had in front of their counter. John told us how happy he was that they were involved in the drive to collect toys for local children.

Stuff the Bus Toy Drive at Wakefield Furniture | Herkimer NY | Mohawk Valley Today
Stuff the Bus Toy Drive collect box.

Order furniture online, get delivery throughout the Mohawk Valley.

While talking with John, we took a few minutes to find out more about their online ordering and delivery. We were excited to hear about their new online ordering feature on their website. In addition to online ordering, Wakefield Furniture offers free delivery for folks that live within 50 miles of Herkimer.

Wakefield Furniture | Herkimer, NY | Mohawk Valley Today

We’ve ordered from Wakefield a number of times, and have always been happy with the furniture, delivery and service. In addition to online ordering, they have a showroom with a variety of furniture on the floor. If you don’t see what you’re looking for in the showroom, ask to see their catalogs and you’ll be sure to find what you need.

If you haven’t been to Wakefield Furniture, stop by with a toy to donate to Stuff the Bus and get to know the folks there.

Wakefield Furniture | Herkimer, NY | Mohawk Valley Today
Wakefield Furniture showroom

Herkimer Diamonds are easy to find at Fall Hill Bead and Gem

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Recently, I had an opportunity to talk with Kim about their new Herkimer Diamond jewelry. I got to browse the many gems, glass beads, and jewelry. What’s great is that Fall Hill Bead and Gem offers so much to Mohawk Valley residents and visitors alike.

Herkimer diamonds jewelry

Fall Hill Bead and Gem has a truly beautiful selection of Herkimer diamond jewelry. Browse the simple wire wraps, Herkimer diamonds set in sterling silver rings, pendants and earrings. In addition, you’ll find expertly crafted one-of-a-kind designs by Adam. It’s easy to get lost in the faceted Herkimer Diamond jewelry, featuring stones cut from their own stock. Their jewelry is made in house in the jewelry studio.

Fall Hill Bead and Gem | Herkimer Diamonds, Gem, Beads| Little Falls, NY | Mohawk Valley Today

Fall Hill Bead and Gem opened in 2008. Drawn to the area in search of Herkimer Diamonds, Kim and Adam fell in love with Little Falls, NY, moved to the area from Pittsburgh, and decided to open a shop. In order to ensure the best selection, Kim and Adam travel to the Tucson gem show every year. As a result, they bring back handpicked unique crystal and the most beautiful tumbled precious and semi-precious gemstones available.

Create your own jewelry with the Herkimer Diamond beads drilled in-house in the jewelry studio.

Choose from a variety of loose beads like Czech glass, precious gemstones, bone, wood and other natural materials. Most importantly ask Kim about their bead strands and other jewelry making supplies. In addition, you’ll find hemp, leather, satin, elastic cording, as well as finished chains and chain by the foot. Be sure to visit their website at fallhillbeadandgem.com.

Fall Hill Bead and Gem | Herkimer Diamonds, Gem, Beads| Little Falls, NY | Mohawk Valley Today

While I have a long list of favorite locally owned shops and restaurants throughout the Mohawk Valley, Fall Hill Bead and Gem on West Main Street in Little Falls, NY, is a frequent stop for me. It’s located right next to That Little Place on Main where we love to get a bite to eat, and across the street from Paca Gardens, where I can get what I need to bundle up for the coming winter.

Image by Mohawk Valley TodayImage by Mohawk Valley Today

September Sampler Tonight in Little Falls

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Each third Thursday of the month, Little Falls throws itself a party. Tonight, Little Falls is featuring a September Sampler where ticket holders can sample pasta and desserts for $9. The four different types of pasta are from Ruggiero’s Trattoria with Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo, Ed and Bud’s Mushroom Stew over Pasta, the Italian Feast‘s special Spaghetti Sauce over Penne Pasta, and the Travelodge’s Chicken Riggies.

Not only that, you can also enjoy three desserts from Ed’s Pizza featuring a new and yummy Nutella Pizza, Il Caffé‘s famous Chocolate Chip Cookies , That Little Place on Main‘s wonderful Pumpkin Spice Silvers, along with the Meeples Mug House debut of Butterbeer (non-alcoholic cream soda)!

Life is full of endless pastabilities!
Mohawk Valley Through the Lens Exhibit at Herkimer College | Mohawk Valley Today

This week has been all about the arts

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What a great week we’ve had appreciating the art and talent throughout the Mohawk Valley.

Mohawk Valley Through The Lens

Mohawk Valley Through The Lens Opening had its opening reception in the Cogar Gallery at Herkimer College. It was wonderful to meet Gabe, Cliff and Todd. All of the artists have a talent for capturing the beauty of the Mohawk Valley in their own unique way, showing us all how fortunate we are to be in this place we call home!

Mohawk Valley Through The Lens at the Cogar Gallery, Herkimer College
Oscar Stivala Evolving Exhibit Mohawk Valley Center for the Arts | Mohawk Valley Today

Oscar Stivala’s “Evolving”

In Little Falls, Oscar Stivala’s “Evolving” opened a gallery exhibit at the Mohawk Valley Center for the Arts. As a local artist, he works in a variety of media including acrylics, mixed media, wood, and more. There’s so much that we loved about Stivala’s work including the wonderfully creative use of media and color. What a treat!

Mohawk Valley at Canajoharie by Edward Gay 1876, Oil on Canvas (Detail) Arkell Museum Canajoharie NY | Mohawk Valley Today

Arkell Museum

On Thursday, we visited the Arkell Museum which was a perfect way to slow down on an otherwise busy day. The Arkell Museum‘s galleries are home to a wonderful collection including John Singer Sargent, Windslow Homer, Edward Gay, Edmund Tarbell, and so much more.

Free Forest Bathing Downloadable

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This sign was created and hung on a tree in preparation for a reunion we were hosting. I made it just for a bit of fun to encourage family to enjoy a walk in the woods, and it worked! Download the SVG file and create your own or make a variation that will work for you. To make the sign

  • Download the “Free Forest Bathing” sign in a scalable SVG file.
  • Cut a pine board to size.
  • Paint the board with black chalkboard paint. Let the paint dry.
  • Print the downloaded file to match the size of the board you want to use and secure the printed paper to the board using painter’s tape.
  • Trace the letters (outline the thicker font) by using a dull point on the paper to leave an indentation to follow on the pine board. I used a small hex point screwdriver. The trick is to choose something that’s not too sharp (you don’t want to rip the paper) but that’s strong enough to leave a good indentation in the wood. The small hex screwdriver worked for me.
  • Once I traced all of the letters, I pulled up one end of the paper and checked to make sure I could see all of the letters. Satisfied with the results, I painted the letters in with an iridescent white paint; you could also use white chalk paint.
  • The trees on the sign below look a little different than the printable because I added them freehand with the paint. I included trees in the printable to make it easier. Happy trails!
Free Forest Bathing This Way Downloadable | Mohawk Valley Today-1
Download Free Forest Bathing This Way
Main Street Little Falls NY | Mohawk Valley Today

Spring has sprung in the Mohawk Valley!

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After the long winter chill it is so nice to be out and about in the Mohawk Valley. You can see the neighborhoods, towns and villages shaking off the chill of winter and stepping out into the community. People going out for walks, village spring clean ups planned, and people looking forward to being outside and active here in the Mohawk Valley.

Little Falls NY | Mohawk Valley Today-1-2

We attended the Think Local Little Falls and Main Street First bi-weekly meetings. These volunteer groups work together making a difference in Little Falls. With the month-long event, “One City One Book – The One and Only Ivan” wrapping up with a party, plans are underway for the May Wellness Walkabout and the Art Walk in June.

Little Falls Historical Society members working on new exhibits | Mohawk Valley Today

Little Falls Historical Society Museum works hard to preserve the past and educate us all on the rich history of Little Falls. On Friday, we spent some time with the volunteers at the museum working on the new Sports Wing, Camp Jolly, Prohibition, and Suffragettes exhibits for the upcoming season opening. 

Picture Perfect Fine Art Gallery | Mohawk Valley Today-3

We were able to catch both of the owners of Picture Perfect Fine Art Gallery, Dorine and Phyllis, in the gallery in Canajoharie, NY. We took the opportunity to learn more about their story and recorded a video interview that we hope to share soon. They shared their story of their past 28 years in business and their joy and passion for the arts.

Be sure to check out the Mohawk Valley Today Events Page. As you and your family get out and enjoy the warmer days you can find activities and events all across this great place we call the Mohawk Valley.  

Retro Ruby's Photography Herkimer NY | Mohawk Valley Today

From Herkimer to Canajoharie and plenty of places in between

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Canal Side Inn Little Falls NY | Mohawk Valley Today

Mohawk Valley Today places to go

We had a great week beginning with photos at the The Café at Stone Mill and Canal Side Inn both located in Canal Place in Little Falls. Also on our list was taking photos at Retro Ruby’s Photography on N. Main Street in Herkimer. Taking photos here was a ton of fun as there are some really awesome sets and photo props that just made our time there a blast.

Dr. Bob Albrect as the English Professor in A Biologist, English Professor, and Psychologist Walk Into a Bar...

A Biologist, English Professor, & Psychologist Walk Into a Bar…

This One City, One Book event, was one that we didn’t want to miss! We arrived early and enjoyed a very nice meal at Ruggiero’s Trattoria. Once the event started, everyone knew they were in for a treat. Ruggiero’s hosted a great crowd and we were happy to gather with friends while discovering more about the book and each other.

Out and About in St. Johnsville, Canajoharie, & Fort Plain

Starting on Route 5, we headed to St. Johnsville for Parkside Drive Inn. We were so happy about Parkside’s season opening and couldn’t pass up their signature salad. On to Canajoharie, we had an opportunity to talk with Dorine about Picture Perfect Fine Art Gallery and how they do on-site framing at their location on Erie Blvd.

On Canal Street in Fort Plain

Chef Aaron’s garlic and cheddar grits with sautéed mushroom and spinach.
The mushrooms include shiitake, oyster and beech mushrooms, for a delicious vegetarian dish.

In Fort Plain, we stopped in to say “Hi!” to Rebecca at Highwheeler Coffee and were thrilled to be able to chat over the best freshly ground coffee that just hit the spot. While there, we had a chance to talk with Chef Aaron at The Table at Fort Plain. Chef Aaron and his team are already planning for Mother’s Day. Chef Aaron shared with us about how people throughout the Mohawk Valley go to The Table as a destination. Because Fort Plain is midway between Albany and Utica, many travel to The Table at Fort Plain to meet with friends and family while enjoying a delicious meal made from the best locally sourced ingredients.

We’re out and about every week and look forward to meeting you in our travels through the Mohawk Valley.

Cover photo was taken by G. Rogers at Retro Ruby’s Photography in Herkimer, NY.

That Little Place on Main 5th Year Anniversary | Mohawk Valley Today

Happy 5th Anniversary
to That Little Place on Main!

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For five years now, Tara, Gary, Marshall and Taylar, have created “that little place” where local folks and visitors alike enjoy breakfast, lunch, pies, and so much more. When you walk in the door, you’re welcomed into the heart of their family-run diner where they provide the best food, made from the best ingredients in the area. You’ll hear the sizzling on the grill, smell the coffee brewing, and while you listen to the old time music, you’ll be in the middle of an experience they’ve created to make you feel right at home. You know that when you walk in the door, you’re in the right place at the right time.

That Little Place on Main 5th Year Anniversary | Mohawk Valley Today
Tara and Gary

This year marks their fifth anniversary at That Little Place on Main and they have so much to celebrate.

With Marshall at his side, Gary has perfected the process of letting the flavor of the food he prepares really come through. He wants the locally sourced ingredients he uses to speak for themselves. From the moment produce and ingredients are sourced, special attention is given to freshness for optimum flavor.

Not only are the meals delicious, the service is friendly and warm.

Notes on tables in the booths left by customers share the many thanks and and great times had by all. After five years, Gary’s favorite thing about the diner is “the community that is created here, the stories told over the counter, and the people…the people.”

That Little Place on Main 5th Year Anniversary | Mohawk Valley Today

Five years is a milestone of success for any business, and That Little Place on Main has achieved this with plenty of momentum. Their focus on home-cooked meals, served in a friendly atmosphere, has proved to be a winning formula for Tara, Gary, Marshall and Talyar, as well as anyone who walks in the door. 

Be sure to stop by That Little Place on Main and congratulate Gary and Tara, and Taylar and Marshall, too, on their fifth year of serving Little Falls.

Always ask about the day’s specials as you are sure to be in for a treat. Check out the pies on the counter and grab the carrot cake when you can. Their cinnamon swirl pancakes are always a hit.

John and Emily at That Little Place on Main
John Krasinski and Emily Blunt at That Little Place on Main for breakfast!
Maple Weekends Mud Road Sugar House

Visit Maple Weekend Sugar House

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It was our first visit to a Sugar House, and to be honest, we didn’t know what to expect.  One thing for sure, a lot of time, energy and effort goes into making one of the most wonderfully natural food products available.

Maple Weekends Mud Road Sugar House

This past weekend, we met the folks at Mud Road Sugar House in Ephratah, NY, who have been making maple syrup for over 30 years. This family business has grown and improved over the years with upgrades to the process including more efficient evaporators, reverse osmosis systems, improved filtering equipment, and more efficient sap collection and storage.

The traditional image of collecting sap from maple trees uses metal buckets that hang on the sides of the trees. Stepping back in time, wagons pulled by horses used to transport the sap to the sugar house. Once there, boiling off the water in the sap was an around the clock operation in order to produce the syrup. 

Modern improvements today offer the ability to collect larger quantities of sap, faster boiling times, and increased production. Mud Road Sugar House has been through the evolution of maple syrup production and continues to improve their processes. Their focus is on quality syrup, available in a variety of grades, yielding an exceptional maple syrup and maple syrup products. 

Maple Weekends Mud Road Sugar House

We really enjoyed the tour of the sugar house, listened intently as the process was explained and we sampled freshly produced maple syrup on pancakes, as well as specialty products like maple mustard, and maple syrup that has been stored in oak whiskey barrels for a wonderfully unique flavor.

Visiting an operating sugar house during New York State’s Annual Maple Weekend is just another reason why we love living in the Mohawk Valley. We recommend going out to see the process for yourself during the upcoming Maple Weekend. We think you will enjoy visiting any one of these wonderful locations while they’re producing the local maple syrup we all love.

Here are the maple producers participating in NYS Maple Weekend in the Mohawk Valley:

Mud Road Sugar House

Frasier’s Sugar Shack,

Brower Road Sugar House,

Millers Mills Maple,

Buck Hill Maple Farm,

Two Saps Syrup and

Maple Hill Farm

Be sure to visit a Maple Weekend Sugar House events happening at locations throughout the Mohawk Valley during NYS Maple Weekends!

You may also like Is it too soon to make Maple Syrup?, and How to identify maple trees to make your own maple syrup.

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