This week we’re catching up with John Marcantonio. You might recognize John from his role with Glens Falls National Bank, from his days with the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce, or his dedicated volunteerism locally. Read on to learn more about John’s ties to the city, a little known fact about him, and a cause near and dear to his heart.
Tell us about yourself!
My name is John Marcantonio and I am a Business Development Officer for Glens Falls National Bank and volunteer for the Alzheimer's Association. A little known fact about me is that last year I became an Adirondack 46er which I’m extremely proud of. I am a lifelong resident of the Glens Falls region and love that my son is growing up in the place I call home. My son is an athlete in baseball and hockey which translates to me being a coach in those sports. I love being involved and making a difference in the lives of others.
On Life in Glens Falls
Growing up in South Glens Falls was a great experience. When I was a kid, I loved all of the local attractions but didn't appreciate all that we have. I was able to attend a great college locally at SUNY Adirondack and then went on to SUNY Utica. After college, I couldn't wait to see what the world had to offer and moved to Syracuse to further my career. After a few years in Syracuse, I realized what a special place Glens Falls is and moved home. I bought a two family house on Ridge Street when I was 25 and loved fixing that house up with my Dad and friends. I enjoyed living in downtown Glens Falls and all that it had to offer within walking distance. This is a very special place that allows us the opportunity to enjoy world class vacation destinations and still have that small town living. I couldn't imagine a better community to raise my son. My wife Shelly and I bought the house I grew up in when my Dad passed away 11 years ago and I built an addition and remodeled to make it our own.
My family is from Glens Falls, my Mom was an RN at Glens Falls Hospital for decades and helped care for many families in this community. My Dad was a famous semi-pro baseball player for the Glens Falls Doblers where he enjoyed playing with his brothers and friends. I love running into folks in town that share their stories about my parents. That is the charm of small town living.
The amazing thing about this community is the philanthropic spirit. Whether big or small, the way that this community rallies together is amazing. We have all witnessed the power of the South High Marathon Dance and what an amazing opportunity it is to educate our youth on the impact they can have to make the world a better place.
Some Glens Falls Favorites
My favorite thing about Glens Falls is watching the city constantly evolve. This is a city on the rise. The dining options that we have for a small town are incredible. I love going to the Bullpen, as a young guy it was one of the best bars to hang out in, but now the little known secret...and this might make it harder for me to get in…the food that Pam and her staff serve for lunch and dinner is incredible. To watch and be a part of the redevelopment of all of the old buildings into thriving businesses in downtown is awesome!
A Perfect Glens Falls Day
A great day here for me would include getting a coffee at SPOT and then heading to Crandall Library to grab a few books for my son. Then I’d do a quick hike up Sleeping Beauty, dinner at Gourmet Café and then an Adirondack Thunder hockey game.
On a Personal Note
The reason that I am so passionate about Glens Falls is a very personal one. I was blessed to work at the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce for five years. During that time I met a lot of great people that make this community special and I also lived through a personal tragedy. My Mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease nine years ago. She was a resident of Cronin High Rise at the time, some of you will remember the little hunched over lady that walked the streets of downtown for years (that was my Mom). I had the pleasure of working downtown and knowing all of the business owners, and so many of them helped me keep an eye on my Mom and let her live independently for as long as possible. Eventually her condition worsened and she moved to a memory care unit at The Landing in Queensbury. Alzheimer's eventually took her memory and then her life. As her primary caregiver, that journey with Alzheimer's was devastating for me and my family but it also led to inspiration. I got involved in the Walk to End Alzheimer's and soon after was nominated to be Co-Chair of the committee. I am so proud to report that in the last four years that event has become one of the top fundraisers in the Capital Region. Last year we had over 1,000 walkers and raised over $165,000. The money raised goes to fund research to make sure that future generations will have treatment and cure, and also funds caregiver support in our community for those that are diagnosed with dementia and Alzheimer's. Please join us on October 26th at SUNY Adirondack to Walk to End Alzheimer's. Here’s a link for more information.
On the Future
If I could wave a magic wand and change anything about Glens Falls what would it be? Nothing! We live in a geographically superior place that offers everything that you could want. Whatever draws you to this region: mountains, lakes, the horses at Saratoga or something else, you will want to stay or come back because of the wonderful people who live here.
Thanks John!
P.S. Check out more of our My Glens Falls series here.