Name: Laura Powers
Age: 40s
Location: Little Falls
Occupation: Financial Advisor
What are your top 3 interests?: Helping others (professionally, personally, and through community service).
Promoting the region’s assets and connecting great people together who share a goal to improve our community.
And, of course, exploring the Mohawk Valley (particularly Little Falls!) with my family.
Tell us about yourself! Who are you?: Highlights: Wife (10 years), mother of twin boys (8 years old), financial advisor (18 years with Strategic Financial Services in Utica), and an advocate for the Mohawk Valley.
I am originally an Air Force “brat” and was born on a base in Oklahoma. My parents are Mohawk Valley natives and, after moving around every few years, we finally returned to Little Falls in the early 90s where I attended LFHS.
Why should we feature you?: I am an energetic optimist that thrives on new ideas and initiatives to grow our city while maintaining a caring focus on assisting community members in need. I believe that winning only happens with collaboration and, truly, we rise highest together.
I adore this community and have planted my roots here with my husband and our sons. Beyond living in LF, I involve myself with as many projects and organizations as my free time will allow. At my core, I am a helper – that shines through in my work as a financial advisor and my efforts as a community leader.
I am often referred to as “Little Falls’ biggest cheerleader.”
What do you love about living here?: I love raising my sons in this small idyllic city because of the people – they are what make Little Falls so special!
We have that tight-knit community feel without having to sacrifice assets that many smaller-sized communities lack. We have a critical access hospital, movie theater, public pool, quality education, numerous (beautiful!) public parks, golf course… the list goes on! Of course, the picturesque setting of our city alongside the valley walls with the Erie Canal running through is simply gorgeous!! And you cannot overlook the perfect location – the midpoint between Albany and Syracuse right off the NYS Thruway – convenient!
Little Falls is sometimes called the “city of festivals” – there is always a celebration or event to be enjoyed. And even more, it is a welcoming community that encourages ideas, conversation, and participation. You do not have to jump through insurmountable hoops to have your voice heard.
What is Upstate, NY to you?: Upstate NY, to me, is the poster child of revitalization – a true renaissance story that shows what can be accomplished when people care and put in the work.
Upstate NY is beautiful and rich in history.
Upstate NY is a great place to raise a family.
Upstate NY is good people!
Are you originally from here?: No
If no, where are you from?: Air Force born – Oklahoma
How long have you lived here?: nearly 30 years
Why do YOU choose to live here?: The people. I love the energy and commitment people have for Little Falls. They love this city and it shows through volunteerism, private investment, community events, the business community, and schools. The people of Little Falls truly believe in Little Falls. I want my children to grow up in a community that reaches for their dreams and makes it a reality for generations to come.
List some of your favorite, local “must-visit” hot spots:: (see below, thanks!)
List some of your favorite, local “must-do” activities:: Attend every single festival!
Wander along the canal and explore Moss Island – Watch the rock climbers, wander the island, bike along the trail, and take in the beautiful views.
Catch a Diamond Dawgs game!
Take out some pins at our bowling alley – well maintained with a retro feel.
Take in a movie at Valley Cinemas with a giant bag of popcorn!
Antique shopping throughout historic Canal Place.
Hike to Buttermilk Falls (waterfall).
Work out at our Youth & Family Center.
Grab a bite at any of the local eateries!
Shop at our local boutiques.
