NH Town Crier

12/30/2025

NHFD Holds American Red Cross Blood Drive
The New Hartford Volunteer Fire Department will host an American Red Cross Blood Drive on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, from 10am to 2pm at the fire station. Reservations may be made by calling 1-800-RED CROS (1-800-733-2767). Reservations are appreciated and walk-ins are always welcome.

12/29/2025

New Hartford Central School District Kindergarten Registration for the 2026-2027 school year
***To be eligible for kindergarten, a child must be 5 years old on or before December 1, 2026 In-person registration dates:
• Bradley Elementary 33 Oxford Road, New Hartford 13413
o January 20, 2026: 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
• Hughes Elementary 340 Higby Road, New Hartford 13413
o January 22, 2026: 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
• Myles Elementary 100 Clinton Road, New Hartford 13413
o January 27, 2026: 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Additional in-person registration opportunities will be announced at a later date for parents/guardians who are unable to attend in January. Parents/guardians are encouraged to complete the New Hartford Registration packet and prepare the necessary documentation prior to attending the in-person dates. To access and download the registration packet, please visit: https://newhartfordcentralsdny.sites.thrillshare.com/page/student-registration.
If you have any questions, please contact the Office of Student Services at 315-624-1231 or email [email protected] or [email protected]

12/28/2025

What the History (WTH)!
submitted by Dennis Webster is a New Hartford resident, and author of regional books on true crime, ghosts, local history, and asylums. He can be reached at [email protected]
Snow Pleasures of the Season
Is there anything more enjoyable yet more depressing than snow. Yes, that fluffy white dandruff of Mother Nature that falls to our New Hartford soil, piling up, causing us to shovel it, snow blow it, and plow it, all while lamenting the return of spring flowers and green prickly grass. Those of us driving in our town are certainly grateful for the long hours and dedication our workers have within the New Hartford Highway Department, who arise in the middle of the night darkness to plow our streets so we can travel to work and run errands with safe snow-free roadways. We certainly are in close proximity to the largest snowfall annually in New York State in Ava that receives on average 191.37 inches per year. Snow falls when our temperature falls below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. If you zoomed down to the microscopic level, you’d see there are thousands of shapes and designs of snowflakes. The snowflake micrography was discovered in 1885 by Wilson Alwyn Bentley. This doesn’t change the fact that we have learned to adapt to the annual snowfall with clothing changes, heating systems firing up, and crocks of hot chocolate consumed to warm the body and soul. We also have snow tires placed on our vehicles, snow brushes deployed at the ready for accumulated snowflake windshield removal, garages to nestle away our cars, and automated starters to warm our vehicles before we deploy our life missions into the winter. One has to wonder; how did our ancestors travel in snow back in the old days? The pre-industrial revolution made cabin fever a common thing as we’d only travel on foot with snowshoes or by horse drawn sleigh. As humans gathered in greater collection in cities or towns like New Hartford, they required snow manipulation or removal, so different ways were created to ease our travels. Snow rollers were large, weighted wheels that were pulled by horse or oxen that would flatten the snow. Other ways included horse drawn plows. The accumulated snowbanks would cause a deployment of man muscle who would hand shovel the banks into horse drawn wagons for relocation to outer areas or dumped into rivers to melt. The first snowplow was invented and used in Milwaukee in 1862 and was pulled behind a horse drawn cart. The invention of motorized vehicles vastly improved ways of manipulating snow and removing it for an increased and advanced urban population. Why our grandparents could more easily walk five miles to school every day in a little less sized snow piles; however, they still walked in the blizzards uphill both to and from their school. I would suggest, dear reader, that you think of, and perform fun activities in the snow from our childhood. Drop to the ground and flap your arms and legs to make a snow angel, pack a wad of snow between your mitten-adorned hands to make a snowball to throw at your favorite person, roll large balls of snow in three different sizes and stack them on top of each other to make a snowman. You can also snowshoe, cross country ski, go sledding down a hill, or build yourself and nice snow fort to hide away from the elements. My only advice of caution to you is to steer clear, let alone partake in a taste of the yellow snow. Happy winter my friends!

12/27/2025

Stanley Theatre Series Barry Manilow Song Writer, Singer, Pianist

Born Barry Alan Pincus on June 17, 1943, in Brooklyn, New York, he was raised Jewish. At the time of his Bar Mitzvah, he changed his surname to Manilow, his mother’s maiden name. With an early fascination for music, Barry attended the New York School of Music and the esteemed Julliard School of Music. Destined to have a lifetime of music, while still in his 20s, he directed a CBS network musical TV show in 1967. Barry worked on musicals with Ed Sullivan Productions, also writing commercial jingles for Dr. Pepper and Band Aid, State Farm Insurance (Like a good neighbor, State Farm is There). His voice in the 70s complemented the McDonald’s jingle, “You Deserve a Break Today “. As an early song writer and performer, Barry was modestly successful. However, when he teamed with Bette Midler for a nightclub act, he as her pianist, and later as her musical director, his musical career blossomed. Barry subsequently worked with an array of performers including Mel Torme, Sarah Vaughn, and others. Some of his hits include Copacabana, I Write the Songs, Can’t Smile Without You, Mandy, Looks Like We Made It, to name a few. Generally, his whole life has been and remains at this writing devoted to music, both as a writer and performer. His musical achievements were distinctly recognized by his induction in the Songwriters Hall of Fame in June 2002. Barry Manilow’s memorable appearance at the Stanley Theater happened in November 1993. At this writing with Barry now in his 80s and living in Palm Springs, he continues to make musical appearances but at much lessened frequencies.

12/26/2025

Winter Recess: Drop In Legos
Get out of the house this Winter Recess and come build with us! Drop in Legos will be offered December 26th, 27th and 28th in the Corasanti Room while the library is open. Come build your next masterpiece and leave it for us to display. We can’t wait to see what you create!

12/25/2025

12/24/2025

Sugar Cookie Fudge
1 (14 oz) can Sweetened Condensed Milk
2 1/2 cups White Chocolate Chips
1 1/4 cup Sugar Cookie Mix
2 tbsp Butter
Christmas Sprinkles
Line a 9 x 9 pan with parchment paper and set aside. Add sweetened condensed milk to a sauce pan and stir often over medium heat. Once hot, stir in white chocolate chips, sugar cookie mix, and butter. Continue stirring until melted and smooth, then remove from heat.
Stir in desired amount of Christmas sprinkles.
Pour mixture into prepared pan and top with more sprinkles.
Place in the refrigerator and allow to set before cutting.

12/22/2025

Fireworks and Family Fun The Annual Downtown New Year’s Eve Celebration is Coming!
Bank of Utica, in partnership with the City of Utica and its Public Safety Departments, is happy to invite the community to celebrate the start of 2026 at the sixth annual Bank of Utica New Year’s Eve event happening in the heart of downtown Utica. This free event features live music and street entertainment, food and beverage deals, and family-friendly fun for everyone.
Bank of Utica New Year’s Eve takes place on Wednesday, December 31, from 6:30 p.m. to midnight. This year’s celebration again features live music, a magic show, roaming street performers, aerial and acrobatic acts in the Bank of Utica windows, big yard games, and a deejay so the party never stops.
Cast your vote for who brings the heat in the UPD/UFD/DPW Chili Cook-Off, join in for the kids’ countdown at 9 p.m., watch the ice-carving demonstrations, take your photo on the ice throne, and enjoy beverages from Saranac Brewery and Utica Coffee.
Keep toasty warm throughout the night by the bonfire as anticipation builds for the Bank of Utica tower countdown to midnight. And don’t miss the oohs and aahs of the dazzling fireworks display when the clock strikes 12.
"If families are looking for something that’s a little bit different to ring in the New Year, wrap up warm, and come join us for a colorful and joyful celebration that’s sure to be a fun night out for everyone," said Barry Sinnott, senior vice president of Bank of Utica. “There’s something powerful about starting a new year surrounded by your community.”
Mayor Michael Galime stated, “I can't wait to ring in another year on Genny at the Bank of Utica New Year’s Eve Celebration. We collaborate on this event each year, exemplifying exactly what we can do as a community together. Here's to 2026.”
Where: Genesee Street, between Bank Place and Devereux Street
When: Wednesday, December 31, from 6:30 p.m.to 12:00 a.m.
Who: Hosted by Bank of Utica Senior Vice President Barry Sinnott, Utica Mayor Michael Galime, and Greater Utica Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Kari Puleo
Entertainment: Music by Grit ‘n’ Grace and Soul Mine, plus magician and entertainer Wade Live!
Food/Drink Specials: F.X. Matt Brewing Company, Utica Coffee Roasting Company, Delta by Marriott, Griffin’s Pub, Mōtus, Irwin’s Fine Food, and more!
Visit www.bankofutica.com for the full event schedule, link to order event merchandise, and parking details.
About Bank of Utica Founded and headquartered in downtown Utica since 1927, Bank of Utica is the largest commercial bank in the Greater Utica/Oneida County area in terms of deposits, offering a multitude of deposit and loan products for commercial and personal customers.

12/21/2025

New Hartford Highway News submitted by Highway Superintendent, Richard Sherman
I want to begin by thanking everyone for your patience during our blacktop season. We apologize for the delays in paving some of the roads. The scheduling depended on the availability of the paving company, and we appreciate your understanding as we worked within their time frame.
Thank to everyone for getting your leaves out for pickup. The one-man leaf trucks are working extremely well again this season! They’ve been busy in every neighborhood, picking up leaves a couple of times each week. After the holidays, please remember to dispose of your live Christmas trees as soon as possible, so we can get them cleaned up and out of the way of the plows. Thank to everyone for getting your leaves out for pickup. The one-man leaf trucks are working extremely well again this season! They’ve been busy in every neighborhood, picking up leaves a couple of times each week. After the holidays, please remember to dispose of your live Christmas trees as soon as possible, so we can get them cleaned up and out of the way of the plows.
Our winter season started early this year, but our plow trucks, sanders, and brine anti/de-icing trucks were ready to go. These brine trucks are used before storms to help prevent snow and ice from bonding to the road surface, and after storms to speed up the melting process. Using liquid brine is much more cost-effective than traditional road salt. Whenever possible, we rely on brine anti/de-icing methods to help keep our roads safe while saving money.
Each winter, after snowstorms, we see piles of snow left in roadways when driveways are plowed out. Please remember that New York State law prohibits moving or leaving snow or ice on any public roadway:
· NYS Vehicle & Traffic Law §1219 – It is unlawful to place or permit snow or ice to remain on a highway in a manner that endangers travel.
· NYS Highway Law §214 – It is unlawful to deposit snow or other materials onto the roadway of any public highway.
These laws exist to prevent serious accidents caused by snow and ice left in the road. Snow piles can freeze into solid blocks, obstruct visibility, and create dangerous conditions for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.
Please remember that there is no parking on Town roads between 2:00 AM and 7:00 AM from October 1st through April 30th. This restriction allows our highway crews to effectively clear snow and ice from the roads during winter months. We also ask residents to keep the Town right-of-way clear of any objects, such as portable basketball hoops and other obstacles. Items left in the right-of-way can interfere with snow removal operations and may be damaged by plowing equipment. Thank you for your cooperation in helping to keep our roads safe and accessible for everyone this winter!
The Town of New Hartford Highway Department currently has several full-time openings for Motor Equipment Operator (MEO) positions. We offer a competitive employment package and a great opportunity to join our dedicated highway team. Applicants must possess a valid Class A or Class B CDL license.
Applications can be submitted through the Oneida County website under the listing for the Town of New Hartford. Join us in helping keep our town’s roads safe and well-maintained year-round!
If you have any questions or concerns, please call me at the Highway office (315) 733-7500, personally at (315) 534-2998 or e-mail [email protected].

12/20/2025

Our cafe is open! Want a warm drink while you read? K-Cups are available at the circulation desk for just $1.50!

12/20/2025

The Genesis Group News
As a nonprofit organization dedicated to community growth, we rely on the generosity of individuals and businesses like you to sustain our vital work. As we launch our 2026 Annual Appeal, we kindly ask for your financial support, which plays a crucial role in empowering us to continue serving our community and fulfilling our mission.
We continue to witness firsthand the profound impact our programs and initiatives have had on the lives of those we serve. None of this would be possible without the support of donors like you. Together, with your support we can create stronger connections and lasting change in our community.
Genesis Group areas of focus include: Community Forums, Small Business Assistance Program, Education, Literacy, Healthcare, Drones, Tourism, AgriBusiness, Banking and Finance and more.
*To make a donation visit: www.TheGenesisGroup.org
19th Annual Celebration of Education
Class of 2025
sponsored by Genesis and First Source Federal Credit Union
Education Hall of Distinction Inductees:
Dr. Brian Bellair
Lisa Putnam
James Weaver
Education Distinguished Service Honorees:
James “Jim” DuRoss
Richard Engelbrecht
Nicholas Laino
Outstanding Educators
Stephanie Behr - Madison BOCES
Kate Bugeya - New Hartford CSD
John Bunker - Remsen CSD
Robert Burns - Whitesboro CSD
Leanne Byard - Herkimer BOCES
Kelly Dwyer Miller - Morrisville-Eaton CSD
Janis Farley - Utica Notre Dame
Dr. Patrice Hallock - Utica University
Laura Hoffman - Sauquoit Valley CSD
Alison Keeler - New Hartford CSD
Erika Kistowski - Remsen CSD
Ron Klopfanstein - Utica University/Utica CSD
Jennifer Krohn - Mohawk Valley Community College
Taylor McNamara - Cornell Cooperative Extention
Dr. Kelly Minerva - Utica University
Dr. Kathleen Rourke - SUNY Poly
Amanda Roy Small - Mohawk Valley Community College
David Schiavi - Utica CSD
Colleen Sparacino - NY Mills Union Free Schools
Dr. Jim Staihar - SUNY Poly
Sharece Toner - Utica Notre Dame
Christine Tucker - Owen D. Young CSD
Jolene Vanderhoof - Vernon-Verona-Sherrill CSD
Outstanding Programs
ACE Program - SUNY Poly (Advancing Completion Through Engagement)
Adirondack STEAM Program - Adirondack CSD
Mohawk Valley Junior Frontiers - Utica CSD, Rome Free Academy and Utica Academy of Science Charter School
MVCAA Head Start Program - Mohawk Valley Community Action
Phaethon - Herkimer County Community College (Literary and Arts Publication)
West Canada Valley Band Program - West Canada Valley CSD