We caught up with Herman Johnson this week! Keep reading to find out what brought him back to Glens Falls after spending years away, some favorite Glens Falls memories, and a few of his favorite spots in the city.
Tell us about yourself!
My name is Herman Johnson, I’m the president of Cerebral Sports, a coach at Glens Falls High School, an Instructor at SUNY Adirondack, and a Radio Host on 1450 WWSC AM. I have three daughters who reside in Washington State. I am married to a wonderful woman, Caroline Johnson, who has a son and a young lady attending SUNY Potsdam. I enjoy helping those who cannot help themselves.
On Life in Glens Falls
I am back in Glens Falls after spending many years away. After graduating from Glens Falls High and attending the University of Jamestown in North Dakota, I came back home to work at the Nautilus which was located just across the street from the Civic Center, now the Cool Insuring Arena.
Upon leaving Glens Falls, my family and I moved to Lewiston, Idaho for 12 years, where I taught and coached, and then from Idaho to Washington State where we lived for 22 years and I continued teaching, coaching and doing triggerpoint therapy.
A divorce got me saying to myself, it's time to return home, and so here I am and am so excited to be here, staying here forever.
My mom, who lives in South Glens Falls now and still drives at 90 years old, moved from Alabama in the early 50s. I have 4 sisters, Remona, Maureen, Joslyn, and Bridget and 2 brothers, Lamont and Jeffrey.
My wife Caroline is from Redhook area and her son is Michael and a beautiful daughter, Victoria.
We rent a very beautiful older home on South Street Extension. Caroline and I enjoy the quiet and quick stroll to Haviland Cove. We do not have to commute, which is the beauty of residing here.
Some Glens Falls Favorites
My favorite thing about Glens Falls is that I grew up with the majority of the long time residents here and it's so nice to see how they have become successful and generous and are comfortable in their own skin - and everyone can love that, can't they?
I wish more people would explore seasonal activities that abound throughout the region, especially the excellent cuisine assembled with fresh ingredients within walking distance of each other.
A Perfect Glens Falls Day
An ideal day comes in many forms - like, in the middle of winter, when we have piles of snow and the streets are clear and there is lots of sunshine - taking a trip to West Mountain Ski Resort and observing the symphony of skiers.
It could be the eventual saunter into the library to read and enjoy the glass enclosure, watching humans and animals strolling by in all kinds of weather.
I’ve never met a calorie I didn't like, but all my closest breakfast nooks deliver a breakfast that's to die for, seriously. I can't single out a particular restaurant because I give praises to all of them when I meet people from out of town. Is it obvious I'm in love with the area?
On the Past
My favorite memory is growing up in the city, having been a part of this great school system and having a school record in the triple jump which afforded me the ability to attend the University. Or sitting in the library reading 24 volumes of Sigmund Freud and 18 volumes of Carl Gustave Jung - love psychology.
Another indelible impression was going to Poopie's when I was 10 years old and getting an egg sandwich with ketchup. I haven't had that sandwich in a great while however, I always enjoy having the delicious hashbrowns.
On the Future
The future of Glens Falls is evolving as we speak because since returning home, many things are happening. I'm loving the leadership of Mayor Hall. The momentum picked up by expanding the Farmer's Market, and many developers have renovated and have beautified South Street and Glen Street is transitioning into a corridor of shops and eateries and as is Ridge, Park, Hudson and many others - kudos to the entrepreneurs! I am hopeful that the people of Glens Falls participate in the growth and transformation of this great city because without their involvement, it is only a dream.
My personal dream is to have people steer more towards Holistic Health, spread the love. Many, many praises to the individual practitioners in the field of Holistic Medicine.
