UTICA, N.Y. — Ten individuals whose contributions helped shape Oneida County’s history, economy, education, justice system and cultural life were honored Thursday, Oct. 8, during the Oneida County Hall of Fame and History Center’s Historical Hall of Fame and Living Legends celebration at the Irish Cultural Center in Utica.
The annual event brought together community leaders, families, previous honorees and supporters for a reception, dinner buffet, music by Monk Rowe, a silent auction and an induction video celebrating the achievements of five historical figures and five Richard W. Couper Living Legends.
Rocco LaDuca served as master of ceremonies, guiding an evening filled with recognition, reflection and humor.
Michael Cariglio, the first Living Legend recognized, drew a roar of laughter when he pretended to fall onstage. The longtime children’s television personality entertained the audience with the playful antics that have delighted generations of viewers.
The 2026 Living Legends were:
Michael Cariglio, an accomplished artist, illustrator and children’s television personality whose creativity and performances have entertained and educated generations of young viewers.
Robert Cohen, a business leader and philanthropist recognized for his contributions to regional industry, economic development and community service.
Anthony Colon, an educator and community advocate who became the first Latino appointed to the Mohawk Valley Community College Board of Trustees and dedicated his career to expanding opportunities for young people.
Anna Tobin D’Ambrosio, president of Munson, recognized for strengthening the region’s cultural landscape through arts education, exhibitions and community engagement.
U.S. District Judge David N. Hurd, recognized for his distinguished judicial career, mentorship and instrumental role in preserving federal court operations in downtown Utica. A courtroom at the Alexander Pirnie Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse was dedicated in his honor in August 2026. Hurd also mentored U.S. District Judge Anthony J. Brindisi, who succeeded him after Hurd assumed senior status in December 2024.
The 2026 Historical Hall of Fame inductees were:
Catherine M. Buckley (1898–1996), an educator and longtime deputy Oneida County clerk who helped nearly 7,000 immigrants pursue American citizenship during her 32-year tenure. She transformed naturalization ceremonies into community celebrations and helped provide American flags to newly naturalized citizens.
Steven J. DiMeo (1954–2024), a regional economic development leader who helped transform the former Griffiss Air Force Base into a thriving business and technology center. As the first president of Mohawk Valley EDGE, he helped attract more than 70 companies and create over 7,000 jobs while advancing major regional development projects.
Anna L. Deecke (1855–1916), an early childhood education pioneer who founded Utica’s first modern kindergarten in 1884. Her progressive approach emphasized play, music, nature and hands-on learning, helping reshape early education in Central New York.
Henry Howard (1816–1897), a freedom seeker and Civil War veteran whose life reflected courage, perseverance and service.
Bill Worden (1942–2023), a longtime WKTV journalist and news anchor whose decades of broadcasting made him one of Central New York’s most recognized media personalities.
Established in 1946, the Historical Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose achievements made a lasting impact on Oneida County. The Living Legends category, introduced in 2001, honors contemporary leaders whose contributions continue to enrich the region.
The celebration also brought together previous Living Legends, including the Rev. Dr. Mary Webster, Robbie Dancy, Sonia Martinez, John Zogby and David Mathias, who mingled with guests and fellow honorees, reflecting the continuing influence of generations of community leaders.
Proceeds from the celebration support the Oneida County History Center’s exhibits, historical collections, digital archives and educational programs.
For more information, visit http://www.oneidacountyhistory.org or call 315-735-3642.
