The Christmastime storm that paralyzed much of Western New York was a widespread event that also affected most of New York's North Country. 

In the northern part of the state, snowfall was measured in feet, not inches. Neighbors stepped up to help each other get through.

In Watertown, more than three feet of snow had fallen.

That led a local business to do something they hadn’t since it opened in the mid 1990s.

“Probably for the first time in history, we actually did not open on one of our normal business days over the weekend," said Ryan Skinner, manager of The Mustard Seed, a health food store in Watertown. "Obviously, we’re closed for Christmas always, but Saturday, we decided it’s not even worth it."

He said the rare decision came down to one thing: safety.

“It’s top priority," Skinner said. "I mean, it’s no joke. When they say don’t travel, no unnecessary travel, they mean it, because the storm does come on so quickly."

Due to the winter storm, those staying inside risked losing power.

Authorities encouraging people to take care due to limited visibility and slippery roads, which were still making driving dangerous. Area residents and workers focused on staying safe and helping others.

Pete Rosales of Axis Power said restoring power for those in need made his day.

“When you run into a mobile home and you see an elderly man waiting at the window for some power to get on, once that light goes on, it’s a blessing for them to have power," Rosales said.