More Than You Know. Closer Than You Think.
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Alex Fresonke moved to Horseheads, NY, with his wife and four children from Florida in 2023.
Born and raised in Florida, Alex attended the University of Central Florida for Construction Engineering and worked professionally in sales, product support, operations, and project management.
“I was interviewing with McWane’s manufacturing facility, Kennedy Valve, in Elmira, NY,” Alex said. He has extended family from Montana and is grateful to have traveled growing up; however, he added, “I had never visited, nor had family travel to the area. The closest I had been before visiting was New York City.” He most frequently traveled to the area when they started searching for homes.
Today, Alex is the Assistant General Manager and Operations Executive at Kennedy Valve in Elmira, NY. “We have an incredible group of team members manufacturing valves and hydrants,” Alex said.
Before moving to the area, Alex assumed it was all about big politics, a conflicted educational system, and over-taxation. “Essentially, all I related to was the 5 mins of the weekly news I would listen to,” he admitted. “Once we had the focused opportunity to learn more about the Southern Finger Lakes and explore the area, we fell in love with its natural beauty.”
The family has particularly enjoyed the winter snow, camping, waterfall hikes, and their new schools,” Alex said, adding, “The seasonal changes were a big factor in our selection to move from Florida, as was an accommodating career growth opportunity.”
Alex and his family’s biggest challenge was rebuilding their community of friends and church. Still, he said, “We had great encouragement and prayers from many, along with a special employer that was incredibly welcoming and accommodating with the move transition.”
Once settled, they focused on rebuilding their weekly routines in a new location with changing seasons. “Adjusting to the shorter daylight time of the year was something to get used to!” However, Alex said, “My two girls would likely say it was us getting a hot tub!”
Despite all the newness that came with the move, Alex and his family’s life is moving pretty smoothly. ” The kids and I are up early for school and work but home much earlier than when I was working in sales and dealer operations, ” Alex said. “Afternoons consist of your typical homework and reading but carry into many outdoor activities, including frisbee golf or pool time.”
When not attending to school, work, and home responsibilities, Alex and his family are making the best of all that Southern Finger Lakes has to offer. “We spend time exploring local wineries, breweries, cafes, and local shops,” he said. “The hiking, waterfalls, and camping experiences have been wonderful! We also continue to serve at church and in the community as we did in Florida. Sometimes, we will drive and pick a spot on the map to check out. It’s been a fun experience when everything is new.”
Alex’s family and friends exploring the cities only a road trip away to SoFLX
For those unfamiliar with New York State but considering a move, Alex said, “Don’t get hung up on the NY News. Take an open-minded trip to explore the areas, and you will find something for everyone to enjoy.” He added, “Look at the proximity and central hub for big cities (New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Toronto) to explore and all the natural amenities in between. Consider taking a leap of faith! The Southern Finger Lakes region makes it easy!”
Thank you, Alex, for sharing your story! Read more SoFLX stories to learn about life, work, and play in the Southern Finger Lakes.
