Impossible to say without more information. Read some complete cultivation notes (on the net) that relate to New York. Post a picture so that the locals can evaluate the condition of the plant.

What sort of conditions are you going to provide during the coming winter? My small collection just survives till Spring arrives so i wouldn't repot any of them till after flowering is finished in late spring early summer.

New roots are a positive sign.

Read past Phalaenopsis posts on this discussions page, to find them put phalaenopsis in the search box at the top of this discussions page.

Still puzzled? give some more information and ask more questions.

Sounds like roots to me. They are a light green color and quite thick. Mine has roots frowing between the bottom and the next set of leaves. This is normal. I wouldn't repot it just because you see these roots.