This weekend on In Focus, we’re opening a conversation on the start of the holiday season.

JoDee Kenney welcomed in Assemblymember Marianne Buttenschon, whose district covers the greater Utica area. The assemblymember’s family also owns and operates Buttenschon Christmas Tree Farm in Marcy, a third generation-run destination for people from all over the area.

JoDee also spoke with Joanna Alberti, lead artist and owner of philoSophie’s design studio in Spencerport. Alberti said her inspiration comes from her customers and the various occasions they want to celebrate. 

Finally, JoDee was joined in the studio by U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Pat Lurenz, Coordinator for Capital Region Toys for Tots. This year is the largest campaign to-date for the chapter.

You can watch the full interviews above. And be sure to tune in for a look inside the biggest issues impacting Upstate New York, on In Focus with JoDee Kenney — every Sunday on Spectrum News 1.