In the heart of New York's stunning North Country, Watertown offers a uniquely endearing blend of small-town charm and modern
amenities, making it a perfect place to call home. With its vibrant community spirit and breathtaking natural backdrops, this city invites residents and visitors alike to embrace a life intertwined with both culture and nature.
Watertown's rich historical tapestry enriches its character, boasting beautifully preserved architecture, including the historic Paddock Arcade, the oldest continuously operating covered shopping mall in the country. This locale serves not just as a commercial hub but as a community gathering space, where locals connect over coffee or explore the diverse boutique shops.
For those seeking an outdoor adventure, the proximity to the spectacular Thousand Islands region offers endless possibilities. From scenic hiking trails to invigorating water activities on the mighty St. Lawrence River, outdoor enthusiasts find their paradise within reach. The Black River, right in town, provides thrilling white-water rafting and picturesque riverbank walks.
Education and community values thrive with excellent schools and organizations that foster growth and connection. Watertown is also known for its family-friendly events and festivals that highlight local talents and flavors, creating occasions to celebrate throughout the year.
With its welcoming atmosphere and dynamic opportunities, Watertown, New...
Discover the Charm of Watertown, New York
Discover the Charm of Watertown, New York: A Community That Beckons
In the heart of New York's stunning North Country, Watertown offers a uniquely endearing blend of small-town charm and modern amenities, making it a perfect place to call home. With its vibrant community spirit and breathtaking natural backdrops, this city invites residents and visitors alike to embrace a life intertwined with both culture and nature.
Watertown's rich historical tapestry enriches its character, boasting beautifully preserved architecture, including the historic Paddock Arcade, the oldest continuously operating covered shopping mall in the country. This locale serves not just as a commercial hub but as a community gathering space, where locals connect over coffee or explore the diverse boutique shops.
For those seeking an outdoor adventure, the proximity to the spectacular Thousand Islands region offers endless possibilities. From scenic hiking trails to invigorating water activities on the mighty St. Lawrence River, outdoor enthusiasts find their paradise within reach. The Black River, right in town, provides thrilling white-water rafting and picturesque riverbank walks.
Education and community values thrive with excellent schools and organizations that foster growth and connection. Watertown is also known for its family-friendly events and festivals that highlight local talents and flavors, creating occasions to celebrate throughout the year.
With its welcoming atmosphere and dynamic opportunities, Watertown, New York, is more than just a place to live—it’s a community where life flourishes with a delightful blend of tradition and vibrancy.
FEATURED STORY
Winter Roof Repairs in Central NY: What You Need to Know
by Eric Gregory
Many homeowners in Central New York believe that roof work has to wait until spring, but that is not always the case. Roofing professionals often make safe and lasting repairs throughout the winter, even in freezing temperatures. When a January leak appears in Utica or Watertown, waiting until April can allow water to spread, insulation to become wet, and ceilings to stain. Addressing the issue quickly keeps your home safe and reduces long-term costs.Modern roofing materials are designed to be flexible in cold weather. Asphalt shingles, for example, can be warmed before
6 | HelloWatertown, New York • Winter Issue
Eric Gregory
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
installation to prevent cracking, and sealants can be adjusted to cure properly in lower temperatures. The key is experience. Contractors familiar with winter conditions in Central NY know how to handle snow, ice, and wind safely while keeping the roof watertight.Winter roof repair often starts with clearing snow and ice from the affected area. Roofers then locate the source of the leak, which is not always where the water appears inside the home. Ice dams along eaves are common, and melting snow that refreezes can lift shingles or block drainage. By carefully removing these blockages and sealing gaps, a
Hello Watertown, New York • Winter Issue |7
Winter Roof Repairs in Central NY: What You Need to Know
Many homeowners in Central New York believe that roof work has to wait until spring, but that is not always the case. Roofing professionals often make safe and lasting repairs throughout the winter, even in freezing temperatures. When a January leak appears in Utica or Watertown, waiting until April can allow water to spread, insulation to become wet, and ceilings to stain. Addressing the issue quickly keeps your home safe and reduces long-term costs.
Modern roofing materials are designed to be flexible in cold weather. Asphalt shingles, for example, can be warmed before installation to prevent cracking, and sealants can be adjusted to cure properly in lower temperatures. The key is experience. Contractors familiar with winter conditions in Central NY know how to handle snow, ice, and wind safely while keeping the roof watertight.
Winter roof repair often starts with clearing snow and ice from the affected area. Roofers then locate the source of the leak, which is not always where the water appears inside the home. Ice dams along eaves are common, and melting snow that refreezes can lift shingles or block drainage. By carefully removing these blockages and sealing gaps, a skilled roofer can stop active leaks and prevent new ones from forming.
There are limits to what can be done, however. Full roof replacements in the coldest months can be difficult if temperatures drop below 20 degrees or if high winds create safety hazards. In those cases, temporary repairs may be applied until conditions improve. These might include installing an ice and water barrier, replacing small shingle sections, or sealing flashing to prevent moisture from entering. Once spring arrives, permanent repairs or full replacement can follow.
Quick winter repairs often prevent costly structural damage later, especially when handled by an experienced roofing crew. Ignoring a leak through the season risks rot, mold, and interior water damage that can be far more expensive than a midwinter fix.
For homeowners in Central NY, the best approach is to call a local roofer familiar with cold-weather roofing techniques. They can assess whether a repair can be completed safely or if temporary measures make more sense. Every situation is different, but winter roofing in Central NY is more practical than many think, especially when handled by a team prepared for the season.
skilled roofer can stop active leaks and prevent new ones from forming.There are limits to what can be done, however. Full roof replacements in the coldest months can be difficult if temperatures drop below 20 degrees or if high winds create safety hazards. In those cases, temporary repairs may be applied until conditions improve. These might include installing an ice and water barrier, replacing small shingle sections, or sealing flashing to prevent moisture from entering...
Bright Smiles for the Holidays: Tips for Keeping Kids’ Teeth Healthy
The holiday season in Watertown is a magical time—filled with festive lights, family gatherings, and plenty of delicious treats. But for children, all those sweets can mean trouble for their teeth. With a little planning and care, you can protect your kids from post-holiday cavities while still enjoying
the season’s delights.Sugary desserts and sticky candies are everywhere during the holidays, and while they’re tempting, they can be harmful to young teeth. Sugar feeds the bacteria in our mouths, producing acid that wears down tooth enamel and leads to cavities. Sticky treats, like caramel or
8 | HelloWatertown, New York • Winter Issue
Bright Smiles for the Holidays: Tips for Keeping Kids’ Teeth Healthy
The holiday season in Watertown is a magical time—filled with festive lights, family gatherings, and plenty of delicious treats. But for children, all those sweets can mean trouble for their teeth. With a little planning and care, you can protect your kids from post-holiday cavities while still enjoying the season’s delights.
Sugary desserts and sticky candies are everywhere during the holidays, and while they’re tempting, they can be harmful to young teeth. Sugar feeds the bacteria in our mouths, producing acid that wears down tooth enamel and leads to cavities. Sticky treats, like caramel or taffy, are especially troublesome because they linger on teeth longer, giving bacteria more time to do damage.
Hard candies come with their own risks. Biting down on them can crack or chip teeth, leading to painful (and expensive) dental visits. Encourage your children to enjoy these types of treats sparingly and to suck on hard candy rather than biting it.
Brushing and flossing are critical during this season. Kids should brush their teeth twice a day for at least two minutes, ideally after meals and snacks. If brushing isn’t possible right away, drinking water can help rinse away some of the sugar. Make brushing fun by turning it into a holiday-themed activity—sing a festive song or use a special toothbrush to get them excited about the habit.
Don’t forget that healthy habits are just as important as holiday traditions. Offering tooth-friendly alternatives like fruit, cheese, or yogurt at family gatherings can help balance out sugary snacks.
The holidays are a time to celebrate, and maintaining good dental hygiene ensures your kids’ smiles stay merry and bright all season long—and beyond.
Dr. Andrew Beuttenmuller
suck on hard candy rather than biting it.Brushing and flossing are critical during this season. Kids should brush their teeth twice a day for at least two minutes, ideally after meals and snacks. If brushing isn’t possible right away, drinking water can help rinse away some of the sugar. Make brushing fun by turning it into a holiday-themed activity—sing a festive song or use a special toothbrush to get them excited about the habit.Don’t forget that healthy habits are just as important as holiday traditions. Offering tooth-friendly alternatives like fruit, cheese, or yogurt at family gatherings can help balance out sugary snacks....
taffy, are especially troublesome because they linger on teeth longer, giving bacteria more time to do damage.Hard candies come with their own risks. Biting down on them can crack or chip teeth, leading to painful (and expensive) dental visits. Encourage your children to enjoy these types of treats sparingly and to
Did You Know? The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children see a dentist every six months, starting at their...
About the Author
Dr. Andrew Beuttenmuller grew up in the Army. In 1992, he moved to Upstate New York, where he graduated from South Jefferson High School in 1999.
Dr. Beuttenmuller is an active member of the American Dental Association, the New York Dental Association, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. He has been at Watertown Pediatric Dentistry since 2012.
