Welcome to the premiere of Valley Vibes! Hosts Dana Sherry and Gennaro Di Luigi sit down with Boyd Bissell, founder of Heidelberg Bread, to explore the deep connections and evolving landscape of the Mohawk Valley. This first episode sets the tone for what Valley Vibes aims to be: a conversation hub that unites the region’s history, entrepreneurship, arts, and future growth.

Key Highlights:

• The mission of Valley Vibes: Connecting the often-siloed communities of the Mohawk Valley and promoting collaboration.
• Boyd Bissell’s journey: From opening the first Heidelberg Bakery in 1983 to expanding to a large-scale production facility in Frankfort.
• Turning a pumpkin patch into a business hub: How Heidelberg became the first tenant at the Frankfort Business Park, catalyzing further development in the area.
• A passion for authenticity and art: Boyd’s unique blend of artisan baking, European culinary traditions, and his extraordinary personal art collection now housed at the new Heidelberg space.
• Giving back: Boyd’s creation of the Heidelberg Foundation and his work supporting the Masonic Medical Research Lab, along with his vision for community revitalization.
• The future of the Mohawk Valley: How initiatives like the DRI grant and economic growth projects are shaping Herkimer, Utica, Rome, and beyond.

Valley Vibes Links:

Heidelberg Links:
Website - https://heidelbergbread.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/heidelberg_bread
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/heidelberggroupinc