In the next episode of the Building Local Business podcast, host Carl Ulinski sits down with Joe Chilelli, the passionate owner behind the transformation of the iconic H.G. Munger Department Store building on Main Street in Herkimer, NY, into the bustling Mohawk Valley Community Market.

Joe shares his journey—from immigrating from Italy, building multiple businesses over 26 years in the Mohawk Valley, to purchasing the historic 1918 structure in 2018 and turning it into a multi-level destination. Facing a major setback when the COVID-19 pandemic delayed the planned opening, Joe pivoted brilliantly by adding an Italian market component, allowing the doors to open in July 2020 amid restrictions.