In this episode of Valley Vibes, we sit down with John Piseck, CEO of the Herkimer County IDA, to talk about the big moves, bold plans, and fresh energy shaping the Mohawk Valley. From major projects and infrastructure wins to how collaboration across towns is sparking real progress, this conversation is packed with insights (and a few laughs).

✨ What you’ll hear in this episode:

• 🚧 Why Herkimer County is seeing a surge in development and opportunity
• 🤝 The power of teamwork between towns, schools, and local leaders
• 🏗️ How brownfield cleanups are turning liabilities into prime real estate
• 📈 Strategies for attracting major companies (and keeping them happy)
• 💡 Lessons in overcoming roadblocks and keeping momentum alive

Whether you’re curious about economic growth or just love hearing how local leaders are driving change, this episode will leave you inspired about the Mohawk Valley’s future.

In this episode of Valley Vibes, we dive into Herkimer’s revitalization, Utica’s waterfront dreams, and how big ideas are transforming the Mohawk Valley. Hosts Gennaro and Dana are joined by developer Tony Morali, who shares his vision for River Lofts and why Utica’s future feels so exciting right now.

✨ What you’ll hear in this episode:

• The bold vision behind Utica’s River Lofts project
• How Harbor Point is becoming a true community hub
• Why boutique shops and walkable spaces could redefine local living
• A peek into turning old buildings into lifestyle destinations

Whether you’re curious about real estate, local history, or just love a good story about small-town momentum, this episode has it all.

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Tony Morali's Links:
River Lofts - https://www.riverloftsutica.com
Morali Architects - https://moraliarchitecture.com

🎙️ Utica is on the rise — and Mayor Mike Galime is here to spill all the details! From waterfront dreams to revitalized streets, this episode is packed with big updates and bold visions for the city’s future.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• The grand opening of Utica’s Harbor Promenade (and why it’s a game-changer)
• Fresh energy in downtown and West Utica with condos, businesses, and more
• How Veek Street is redefining itself as a food + entertainment hub
• Big plans for events, trails, and turning the waterfront into the place to be
• The mayor’s vision for making Utica a regional destination

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If you’re curious about what’s next for Utica (and how it’s all coming together), this is the episode to tune into!

Valley Vibes Links:

Welcome to the premiere of Valley Vibes! Hosts Dana Sherry and Gennaro Di Luigi sit down with Samantha Colosimo-Testa & Tony Morali.

Key Highlights:

• The mission of Valley Vibes: Connecting the often-siloed communities of the Mohawk Valley and promoting collaboration.
• The River Lofts Project: Transforming a historic landmark into a vibrant community that seamlessly blends the past with the future, creating an unparalleled living experience in Utica.

Valley Vibes Links:

Tony Morali's Links:
River Lofts - https://www.riverloftsutica.com
Morali Architects - https://moraliarchitecture.com

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