Over a decade ago, Jeff Burkhart, a firefighter, felt a void in commemorating the events of 9/11. Determined to honor the fallen and those still affected, he spearheaded the initiative to organize stair climbs. Since its inception in 2015, the Central New York Stair Climb has been a powerful tribute to the first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice. Participants don full gear and climb 110 stories, symbolizing the towers of the World Trade Center. See the full video here - https://youtu.be/t12uFJ8Show

Check out our latest MTCS #podcumentary, featuring the inspiring journey of local artists and entrepreneurs, Arthur Hutchinson and Matthew Ferguson, as they create stunning murals across Central New York (CNY). We first connected with Arthur and Matt when VIP Structures unveiled their new headquarters, The Post, in 2023, which prominently showcased local artwork in its design. (Link to VIP Structures - https://www.vipstructures.com/) In this video, we delve into Meg Tidd's narrative of VIP's intentional approach to The Post's design, highlighting themes of sustainability, community collaboration, and the celebration of regional and company culture through art. Special thanks to Robert Angelicola and Nicolas Angelicola from ROI Office Interiors for sharing their insights and experiences in partnering with VIP to bring this vision to life, providing an incredible space for their team to thrive. Join us as we shine a light on this inspiring story of creativity and collaboration! Read part of the transcript below: Participants: Meg, Mike, Pete Meg: We're grateful for the relationship we've built. Remembering our first meeting on June 16th, 2020, your story was inspiring. Since then, we've made significant progress, especially with our move to a new space. The decision to relocate was driven by our desire for a more unified work environment and a stronger connection to the community. Our new office design reflects our values, thanks to collaborations with local artists like Arthur and Matt. They captured our vision beautifully, emphasizing sustainability, diversity, and community engagement. Arthur's work, in particular, resonated with our purpose of finding a better way for our people, planet, and community. His mural symbolizes our commitment to these ideals and serves as a reminder of our mission. Mike: Arthur's attention to detail and passion for our values were evident throughout the process. His collaboration with Matt from A&M Graphics brought our vision to life in ways we hadn't imagined. Pete: It's inspiring to see the impact of intentional decisions on company culture and community involvement. The thoughtfulness behind every aspect of the office design, from the murals to the wayfinding signs, reflects Meg's leadership and vision. Meg: Our goal is to continue fostering community connections and supporting local artists like Arthur and Matt. Their work adds vibrancy to our space and reinforces our commitment to making a positive impact. Pete: I'm impressed by the emphasis on community engagement and sustainability. It's a testament to the company's values and its role in shaping the local culture. Mike: We're excited to explore new opportunities for community collaboration, such as partnering with grant writers to support nonprofit storytelling. Our goal is to share meaningful stories that reflect the diversity and vibrancy of our community. Meg: Thank you, Pete, for your continued support and contributions to our journey. You and Bernadette have become an integral part of our community, and we're grateful for your presence and collaboration. Mike: Absolutely, Pete. Your involvement has made a significant impact on our company culture and community outreach efforts. We look forward to continuing our collaboration and making a difference together. Pete: Thank you both for your kind words. I'm honored to be part of this journey and excited to see where our collective efforts lead us. Let's continue working towards a better future for our people, planet, and community.

Join us on a captivating journey through time as we delve into the intriguing history of Oak Knitting Mill, nestled in the heart of Upstate New York. Originally established in [year], this historic mill stands as a testament to the region's industrial past and enduring legacy. In this video, we'll uncover the fascinating story behind Oak Knitting Mill, from its humble beginnings as a textile powerhouse to its present-day transformation into a vibrant cultural hub. Through immersive visuals and insightful narration, we'll explore the architectural marvels of this landmark building, showcasing its intricate brickwork and timeless charm. Discover the pivotal role Oak Knitting Mill played in shaping the local community and economy, serving as a vital source of employment and innovation for generations. From the clacking of machinery to the skilled hands of workers, we'll evoke the sights and sounds of a bygone era, offering a glimpse into the daily life within these historic walls. But Oak Knitting Mill's story doesn't end with its industrial past. Today, it has been lovingly restored and repurposed by [Company/Organization Name], breathing new life into its storied halls. Learn about the innovative initiatives and cultural events that now call Oak Knitting Mill home, from artisan markets to creative workshops, fostering a sense of community and connection for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're a history enthusiast, architecture buff, or simply curious about the hidden gems of Upstate New York, this video promises to inspire and educate. Join us as we uncover the timeless allure of Oak Knitting Mill and celebrate the enduring spirit of this historic landmark.

Join us for an exclusive insider's view into the remarkable transformation of The Post, a historic landmark in downtown Syracuse, New York. In this engaging conversation, Mike Durkin shares insights into the evolving business landscape of the area, highlighting the vibrant community and exciting developments taking place. As Mike settles into his new office space within The Post, he reflects on the building's rich history and its promising future. From its exposed brick walls to its soaring glass halls, The Post stands as a symbol of resilience and innovation, attracting a diverse array of businesses and entrepreneurs. Learn about the latest developments within The Post, including VIP Architectural Associates' move into the redeveloped space, alongside other notable tenants like Chase Design and NBT Bank. With NRG Energy also set to join the community soon, The Post is poised to become a bustling hub of activity, driving economic growth and revitalization in downtown Syracuse. Discover the creative potential of The Post's unique features, such as its expansive glass-walled press hall, which has sparked ideas for innovative uses like a rock climbing wall. Mike and his team are committed to leveraging The Post's distinctive attributes to attract businesses that will not only thrive but also contribute to the vibrant fabric of downtown Syracuse. Join us in celebrating the success of The Post's redevelopment and the visionaries like Jeremy and Gary Thurston who have played a pivotal role in its revitalization. As Syracuse continues to evolve, The Post stands as a beacon of progress, offering an inspiring glimpse into the city's bright future. Don't miss this fascinating discussion about the power of community, innovation, and collaboration in shaping the destiny of downtown Syracuse.