This week we caught up with Dave Walls, who you’ll recognize from one of everyone’s favorite downtown spots - Mean Max! He shares what brought him to Glens Falls 15 years ago, a few Glens Falls favorites of his own (including a few spots he misses from days gone by), and some fond summer memories. Cheers!
Tell us about yourself!
Hello, my name is Dave Walls and along with my brother-in-law own Mean Max Brew Works. I grew up in St. Lawrence County and went to college in Potsdam and have lived in Glens Falls for the past 15 years.
On Life in Glens Falls
My wife and I moved to Glens Falls in 2005 and have never looked back. We chose Glens Falls to be closer to our families and the Adirondacks. My wife, Jill, grew up in Lake George and I have been spending time here with her since 1995. We both absolutely love it here, so what better place to live? Since moving here, we have had two little boys.
When we moved to Glens Falls in 2005, the real estate market was quite hot. When we went to look at our current house, we showed up with a purchase contract in hand just in case it was the house for us. Turns out it was exactly what we were looking for! It is close to Crandall Park and the bike trail and is walkable to downtown. We adore our little street and being surrounded by our amazing neighbors. We are lucky enough to be able to watch the Fourth of July fireworks right from our deck. It’s amazing because the fireworks are framed by old growth hardwood trees, which is so cool. In addition, we love being able to walk to the Adirondack Balloon Festival launches in the park, as being able to watch the Memorial Day Parade without having to find parking.
Some Glens Falls Favorites
The things that I like the most about living in Glens Falls is the proximity to everything and the hometown charm. We can hop on our bikes and access the Warren County Bike Trail which is fantastic for our little family. We’re fond of being able to stroll the city’s neighborhoods and “secret” backyard alleys as well as being able to walk to all of the community events, farmer’s market, the library and downtown restaurants. We consider ourselves incredibly fortunate to be so close to so many things to do, in such close proximity to Glens Falls. We also feel quite blessed to be able to walk our kids to school throughout the seasons and appreciate the close-knit feel of a neighborhood elementary school.
A Perfect Glens Falls Day
My perfect day in Glens Falls would begin with me taking care of any open business at Mean Max. Then I would really enjoy taking a bike ride with the family either along the Feeder Canal or possibly in Cole’s Woods. After our bike ride we would grab a bite to eat at any of the downtown restaurants followed by an ice cream at Cooper’s Cave or Rob & Debs. Finally, to complete my ideal day I would pay a visit to Mean Max to catch up with good friends!
On the Past
One of my favorite Glens Falls memories is a recent one. As we neared the end of the school year this spring, our neighborhood wanted to recognize all our kids did to finish out the school year during these strange times. We planned a neighborhood parade and ceremony for our school age kids. It was such a neat night, our neighborhood had Glens Falls school kids from age 5 to 18 take part. We celebrated them all from the graduating senior to kids finishing their first year of kindergarten. Neighbors came out to cheer them on.
Other favorite memories include outdoor movie nights with our neighbors, Balloon
Festival weekends, and finding the perfect space downtown for Mean Max.
What I miss in Glens Falls: first and foremost, Bistro Tallulah, Red Fox Bookstore, Boston Candy Kitchen and Sterling and the “Silly” (that’s what my family called it) fountain on Warren Street.
…and On the Future
If I could wave a magic wand, I would love to see a downtown market with local foods, wares and gifts as well as a local bookstore.
This week’s My Glens Falls was made possible by Morgan & Co. Restaurant.
Have you been to Morgan & Co. yet this summer?! A cocktail and an amazing meal on the porch or patio at Morgan and Company is always a favorite. They have indoor and outdoor seating available, along with takeout options…and this week they have live music Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday night! Make your reservation by clicking here - cheers!
Thanks for supporting the businesses that support Glens Falls Living!