My Glens Falls: Jordan Cleavland

This week, we’re chatting with Jordan Cleavland, who you’ll likely recognize from Baked by Jordan! She shares the details on the renovation of their first home in Glens Falls, her go to lunch and dinner in the city, and some exciting news for her family come fall!

Hi! My name is Jordan Cleavland. I am the owner of Baked by Jordan. I spend most of my time baking yummy cupcakes out of Kelly’s Roots where my cupcakes are available to purchase weekly! I have perfected some of the most unique cupcake flavors over the last 6 years and have been a part of so many special celebrations. My favorite flavor? Funfetti Cookie Dough.

When I am not covered in buttercream and sprinkles, I am a part time pediatric dental assistant at The Pediatric Dental Group of New York located on Broad Street in Glens Falls. I’ve worked alongside the kindest doctors and staff for 2.5 years. Flossing everyday really is that important.

I have been married to the most driven and supportive husband for the last 4 years and we have a 12 year old chocolate lab named Gunner who is simply the very best.

On Life in Glens Falls

I grew up in South Glens Falls and my husband Scott grew up in Glens Falls. When Scott returned home after a year long deployment to Iraq in 2016 we knew it was time to plant some roots of our own. We wanted a place to call our home. Scott and I purchased a two-family home in Glens Falls from our best friend who was looking to sell. We decided to call the main first level home and we rented out the upstairs apartment to one of my lifelong friends. Living with your fiancé and dog and having your best friend just a flight of outside stairs away is the literal dream!

Scott and I quickly got to work renovating the entire first floor. With Scott having the muscles and knowledge and I having the creativity and a vision we make a pretty great team. We tackled gutting the kitchen, adding new flooring, and painting until our hands cramped. Tips for surviving a renovation include: take out, living less than a mile from Lowes and understanding that Chip and Joanna Gaines have an entire crew working beside them. And when things get really hard and messy, it’s ok to call Mom and Dad for help. My Dad is so patient and handy and my Mom brings the humor, snacks and magic erasers. We are very lucky.

As the weather got warmer, we moved the projects outside, where we added a fence, some beautiful landscaping and my very first garden. Gardening has turned into one of my favorite hobbies and Gunner is always close by laying in the shady grass keeping watch on the neighborhood. Something about the soil in Glens Falls makes for the prettiest and biggest blooms!

Our first home in Glens Falls holds some of our most cherished memories. I got ready for our wedding in that house and it was the home that we hosted our first Thanksgiving dinner in at the dining room table that Scott and I built together.

We now rent out both floors of our beloved first home in Glens Falls to close friends.

In January of 2020 Scott and I purchased our dream home in South Glens Falls. We still spend our time working on house projects, with our most current and favorite project being a nursery for our sweet baby girl due early this fall. 

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

Let me describe to you my perfect day spent in Glens Falls. First stop is grabbing two Lavender Lemonades at Spot Coffee. One Lavender Lemonade for myself and one for my gal Emily Heym at En Pointe Hair Studio who is about to work her magic on my long blonde hair.

Hair is in two french braids and it is time to put on my apron to set up a beautiful cupcake wedding display at one of my favorite local venues, The Queensbury Hotel.

After I have every cupcake placed perfectly on display and the beautiful florals are on the cake it is time to re fuel. The Aloha Smoothie Bowl (no banana please) from Kelly’s Roots is screaming my name.

Right around the corner from Kelly’s Roots is Rosewood Studio where I would spend the rest of the afternoon adding more ink to my floral tattoo from Glen Underwood.

Take out from Siam Thai is Scott and I’s favorite go to dinner option. Give us all the crab ragoons!

The evening ends in a round of darts at Mean Max and a quick stop at Cooper’s Cave Ice Cream window and we are home and sharing a vanilla cone with rainbow sprinkles with Gunner all before 8pm.

My Glens Falls: Paul Phillips

In advance of SUNY Adirondack’s Summer Enrichment Program (a perfect summer activity for students entering grades 4 - 10!), we chatted with Paul Phillips about his experience teaching in the program, what he’s up to when not in the classroom, which classic Glens Falls restaurants are his favorite, and more…

Tell us about yourself!

I have been an Instructor in the Summer Enrichment Program at SUNY Adirondack for 32 summers. It is my favorite place to teach. I have been teaching a mock trial course entitled "Mystery Solved" in which students take on roles of judges, witnesses, suspects, and attorneys for so long, that I recently taught a student whose mother was a student in one of the early incarnations of the course. We have been solving these literary and historical mysteries for about 30 of my summers there. I am retired from WSWHE BOCES, but I still do occasional enrichment courses for them, and I have been doing special courses for Saratoga Library under the heading of "Bizarre Science" for several years as well.

[Editors Note: To find out more about the Summer Enrichment Program for students entering grades 4-10, or to sign up, click here!]

When not teaching, I enjoy reading, especially in science periodicals and classic literature. I also play the guitar and compose songs. I am anxious to return from the world of virtual teaching to live teaching, especially for SUNY Adirondack. We have been unable to conduct my video production course, "Lights, Camera, Action" for the past two summers due to the pandemic.

On Life In and Around Glens Falls

Prior to my teaching career, I worked at Health and Human Services for a number of years, and following my training in Albany, I was assigned to the Glens Falls District Office. It was my first choice for geographic areas, though I was initially told that few people get their first selection. This was back in the 1970's. I met my wife, who is a Queensbury native, after moving up to to the area, and we have been married since 1982. We own a home in Queensbury, not far from West Mountain. We purchased the land and had a home built amid the lovely pines.

Some Glens Falls Favorites

My wife and I love history, art, and architecture and thoroughly enjoy The Chapman Museum, The Hyde Collection and the variety of excellent antique stores in the area, especially Glenwood Manor. We have also enjoyed and personally promoted the area's connection to The French and Indian War. In fact, I have taught a course entitled "The French and Indian War in My Backyard" which helpes extoll the virtues of Cooper's Cave, Fort Edward, Lake George, Fort Ticonderoga and Crown Point. I encourage friends, relatives and my students to tour each of these important sites that we are blessed to have.

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

My wife and I are foodies who enjoy the wonderful area restaurants and count The Harvest, The Talk of The Town, and Queen of Harts among our favorites. I have a very unconventional version of the perfect day in the Glens Falls area. I choose that long-time favorite of students and teachers alike - the snow day! It begins with the news of a day off as we watch the snow pile up on our trees surrounding our home. Then after the roads clear up, it is out to lunch at New Way Lunch or Steve's Place. Afterwards, a walk along the by now navigable downtown streets, and then home in time to watch the snow cascading beautifully from the burdened pines in our back yard. It is a quiet, serene magnificence.

On the Past

I miss several wonderful memories of Glens Falls, including Young's Restaurant and their remarkable Chinese food, and of course, the charming Empire Theatre. However, what I miss most is the two Double-A baseball teams we once enjoyed, the Glens Falls White Sox and the Glens Falls Tigers. I remember bringing our daughter to the games at East Field, and rooting for many of the stars who made it to the Major Leagues, including Ron Kittle and John Smoltz. Those games had a hometown feel that it is impossible to replicate.

On the Future

I would certainly like to see the return of classic music shows to the Civic Center, and an organized group to effectively and specifically promote the rich 18th century historical legacy of the area. We need to reinforce an interest in the rich historical tapestry that is the Glens Falls area.

My Glens Falls: Emily Gaul

This week, we’re chatting with Emily Gaul! She shares what brought her to Glens Falls after traveling the world, a bit of 1950’s family history that ties her to the city, what she loves about about her old home (and the tree in her backyard that she nominated for the Rockefeller Christmas tree!), and more…

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Emily and I’ve lived in Glens Falls for the past three years. I was born in upstate NY and we moved to Wisconsin when I was five years old. I lived, and went to college in Wisconsin. I loved my liberal arts education at Beloit College and my masters program at Loyola University Chicago. Both of these experiences have really shaped how I think about the world and my approach to life and, for that, I’m very thankful. I’ve traveled and worked all over the world – from Botswana to India to New Zealand to Japan, but have always found fun in small towns. I lived in Chicago for nearly 10 years and really embraced city living – so many restaurants, public transport and a buzzing city. But, I always knew that I wanted to put roots down in a small town, so here I am in Glens Falls! 

I work at Skidmore College in the study abroad office. I’ve been working in international education for almost 14 years and I really enjoy connecting to students, faculty and international partners. 

I’m also a Birth and Postpartum doula, ADK Doula, and I teach childbirth education classes. I love that I’m able to support families through such an amazing point of their lives! I work with families leading up to their births so that everyone is as prepared and educated as possible for birth. I go by the philosophy “expect the unexpected” because giving birth will never go as ‘planned’! I’ve been doing one-on-one childbirth prep for couples here in Glens Falls and the greater area. I’m passionate about normalizing the ups and downs of postpartum and being able to provide support during that time. A postpartum doula like myself can provide a different type of support from family members and I’d highly recommend looking to hire a doula (there are lots of us in the region!) if you are expecting as doulas can very much enhance your birthing experience!

These two roles are very very different but the one thing they have in common is the emphasis on patience and flexibility!

On Life In and Around Glens Falls

I remember my first visit to Glens Falls. My friend and I were having a beer at Common Roots and I started talking to the couple next to me, Vrushali and Mat. They had just recently relocated to Glens Falls, too, so we were both trying to make friends and establish a community. Spending time with them, and meeting other friends through them, gave me the idea of moving here and buying a house (I was living down in Saratoga). I found Glens Falls incredibly affordable with a lovely little downtown, so it was a good fit. 

Now that I’m here, it’s home. I enjoy when I have out-of-town visitors and am able to show them all the wonderful outdoor activities within a very short drive of home. In the summer, it’s been nice to strap my kayak on my car and drive 10 minutes to get to the lake or a river and be out on the water so easily. Or, drive a few minutes to hike a mountain! We are really fortunate to live in a place that has such accessible outdoor fun! 

When I was looking to buy a house, I wanted an old home with character but I knew I didn’t have the passion to do a lot of work to an older home. I looked at many places before I walked into my current home on Harrison Ave. The minute I walked in and saw the old staircase and built in china cabinet I knew this was my home! The added bonus was that it had recently been updated so was move-in ready! I put an offer in and about twenty minutes later, my realtor called to tell me they accepted my offer! I’ve done a lot of work on the outside - planting perennial and vegetable gardens and it got a whole new paint job last fall, so it really does feel like my own. I also have a gigantic pine tree in my back yard that shades my house and keeps it cool during the summer. I’ve nominated it twice for the Rockefeller Christmas tree and am still waiting for a call back but it might be too big! 

I’m a lover of houseplants – I have over 100 inside my home and my house gets great light for those plant babies! After living in apartments for most of my adult life, it’s been nice to have a place of my own to display all of my treasures from my travels abroad. I would say that my house reflects me perfectly!

I love my front porch and am constantly meeting and chatting with people in the neighborhood when I sit out there. It gets great evening sun and I enjoy hosting little ‘porch parties’ with my friends and family! 

I live just south of Crandall Park and it’s so quiet and peaceful. All of my neighbors are so friendly and helpful. It’s really been a saving grace during the pandemic because I was able to socialize outside with my neighbors and we help each other out. I’m thankful for their friendship, too! 

Some Glens Falls Favorites

There are so many great walking trails within a few minutes of my house! During lunch, I try to always fit in a walk with a friend – either around the neighborhood or one of the close trails like Rush Pond, Feeder Canal Trail or Coles Woods. It’s one of my favorite parts of the day!

We also have an awesome library which I frequent each at least once a week to browse. And some pretty amazing woman owned health and beauty businesses! It’s nice that we have so many quality options for massages, facials and more!

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

I love weeknights in Glens Falls, especially in the summer. There is always something to do. I like going to the Shirt Factory food truck event on Thursdays and then my friends and I enjoy the porch at Lawrence St. Tavern. I also like to go to Raul’s happy hour! I’m looking forward to the Take-A-Bite downtown event, Friday night concerts at Crandall Pavilion and also the Monday night workouts at the pavilion! 

On the Past

Although I am newish to the area, I have family history in the area. My great-grandfather was a doctor and they lived in Fort Ann. In the 1950’s, on his nights off, he and my great-grandmother, Lillian, would get all dressed up and come to the Queensbury Hotel for drinks and dinner. Whenever I visit the hotel, I think about that!  And, my grandmother worked at the insurance company downtown early in her career. She also knew all the streets in Glens Falls so anytime I talked about a place, she knew what street it was on! 

On the Future

I would love if Glens Falls was able to support a co-op store! I cook a ton so having a local place to buy bulk spices and grains would be a dream!  My friends and I also have talked about our dream of having a garden nursery with small beer garden in the middle of it so you could browse plants and flowers while enjoying a local beverage! I love spaces that are created out of old material or a spot that is rehabbed to show its original character. Downtown Glens Falls as so many cool spaces! Having either a co-op or beer garden made out of old shipping containers would be pretty neat, too!

My Glens Falls: Sean Driscoll

This week, we’re chatting with Sean Driscoll, who you’ll likely recognize from his role with the Adirondack Thunder! He shares his experience growing up in Hometown USA (so many great memories!), his dreams for a shop downtown, and so much more…

Tell us about yourself!
Hey, I’m Sean Driscoll, I’ve been Director of Ticket Sales and Service for the Adirondack Thunder since 2015 and worked for the Flames as an account executive in 2014 during the final year of AHL Hockey in Glens Falls.

I grew up near Haviland’s Cove and went to Big Cross Street School. I was born on my grandfather’s 50th birthday in 1990, however he was working in Mexico for GE and missed the birth of his first grandchild. My parents, Bennet and Tawn, got me involved in sports at an early age and I grew up playing hockey, soccer, and a little basketball. I learned to skate at the Civic Center (7am weekend practices?) and played Rec. Soccer at Crandall Park. I graduated in 2008 from Glens Falls and went onto play soccer for two years at SUNY ADK before transferring to play D3 in Boston at Newbury College. While at Newbury, I was captain my senior year and during my two years there I had teammates from over 10 different countries, which was quite different from Glens Falls and an experience I will never forget! After graduating in 2013, I worked at Coleman in the outlets (my typical summer job) while looking for a job in sports. The following May I was hired by the Adirondack Flames and I remain the only staff member still left from that group.

Last summer I was furloughed for what ended up being 7 months. I am someone who really cannot sit still, something I guess was passed down to me from my parents. They are either working or volunteering somewhere. In early December I started volunteering at the St Mary’s Food Pantry every Friday and just recently joined the Glens Falls Recreation Commission. I also have been coaching youth soccer in the area for 15 years and still play in an adult league with friends at The Dome. I found a quote a while ago, "Nothing to do, but always busy" and that just about sums up my life. 

On Life In and Around Glens Falls

I have lived at The Mill for the past three years but am currently looking to buy a house. I want to stay in Glens Falls because of everything it offers. My mom grew up in Hudson Falls and my dad grew up between Boston and the Cape so we visit New England family and friends a few times a year and have a mini pack to the Boston Red Sox, but there truly isn’t anything like the Adirondack area. The mountains, lakes, businesses, and the people make this area Hometown USA. I have friends who fall in love with the area when they come to visit. 

At a young age I knew I wanted to work in sports. My first job was working at the Great Escape for Subway at age 14 like many local kids. Growing up, going to hockey games, concerts and special events at the arena was awesome. It is pretty cool to say I work for a professional sports team in my hometown. The arena gets shows and has teams coming in to see what downtown Glens Falls is all about. I remember myself and a coworker had to pick up comedian Gilbert Gottfried up at the train station in Fort Edward and he wanted to grab lunch (he was staying at The Q). When he asked what is good, it was easy for me to say, “Well what are you in the mood for?”. Glens Falls has so many different options for food and the store fronts are really starting to come to life! 

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

My perfect day during the summer is grabbing Battenkill Chocolate or Mocha Milk from Randy at the Farmers Market. Then it is either a hike somewhere around Lake George or kayaking on Glen Lake (if the parking lot is full it is nice to know Pete Dineen and just park at his house.) Next would be trying to pick a restaurant. Like I said downtown has so many options, it is tough to choose a go to place for a bite to eat or drink with friends. If there is a game on, any sport, you can likely find me at The Bullpen and hopefully the Radio Junkies are playing later. Over the years my grandfather and I have regularly hit all the locally owned spots for breakfast or lunch as well.

During the wintertime, game days are the best. They are long days but rewarding. I try to get to the rink around 8:00am to fulfill season ticket holders needs and open the office. Once 5:30pm hits and fans start coming in it makes it all worthwhile. It doesn’t matter if we win or lose (winning is better), we still have the most dedicated fans in all of sports. We are the smallest market in the ECHL but our fan base is second to none.

I need to mention that Opening Night is Saturday, October 23rd. YOU WANT TO BE THERE! The new roof might come off! (…figuratively, not literally, Mayor Hall).

On the Past

I have a couple of memories to share, both sports and non-sports related. As a kid I remember my best rec soccer team was the purple team and our star player was Jimmer Fredette. He would show up after football practice and dominate the soccer field. I am pretty sure he scored while playing goalie. I remember telling my college buddies “I was teammates with him” while watching BYU and NBA games on TV. I also played hockey and always wanted to win the Gazzillo Cup at the Rec. Center. I played on travel teams and couldn’t tell you how many tournaments I won but we always stayed in a hotel with a pool and played some mini hockey in the hallways.

In 2002, my family hosted a student from the Saga City Sister Program. The following year I was able to join 19 classmates in Saga and celebrated my 13th birthday there. A couple years later my dad went and stayed with the same family that I did. We still keep in contact with the Nakamura family through Facebook and sharing gifts. 

On the Future

I have joked with friends that I have always dreamed about opening a general store downtown (Driscoll’s General Store). I can picture my dad behind the counter greeting people and reading the paper with a coffee in his hand. He told me he is in no hurry to retire so this would be a perfect job for him, while I oversee the daily operations. I have a sweet tooth (something all my friends know) so we would have ice cream and a candy wall with a ladder like the one Charlie gets the golden ticket in the Willy Wonka movie. It would focus on basic household needs. Downtown is becoming a place to live and not just visit. If you live downtown and need a broom, hammer and kitchen tools, you still have to jump in your car to grab them.

I honestly cannot wait for the Farmers Market building and what South Street can turn into. People always try to compare Glens Falls to Saratoga, but Glens Falls is Glens Falls. Downtown has grown in the last decade and I can’t wait to see what exciting process awaits.

My Glens Falls: Nikki Ogden

This week, we’re chatting with Nikki Ogden, who you’ll probably recognize as the manager at Rude Betty! She shares what inspired her to move to Glens Falls, the joys of old home ownership, her go to for dinner downtown, and more!

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Nikki Ogden and I am the manager of Rude Betty in Glens Falls and Happy Jack’s in Bolton Landing. I am married to Zach Ogden and we have a five year old named Emma, who will be starting Kindergarten in the fall at Kensington.

On Life in Glens Falls 

I grew up in Lake Luzerne and moved to Bolton Landing when I was 18. After meeting my husband in college, we decided to move to Glens Falls in 2003. I loved the idea of living in an up and coming city. I had substitute taught at Sanford Street Elementary and loved the school system. It was an ideal place to start our life together. 

We bought our house on Monument Ave in 2011. Our house was built in 1939 so it definitely needed a face lift. We had new siding and windows put in and had the original hardwood floors restored to their former glory. We are so lucky to have the most amazing neighbors. We love everything Glens Falls has to offer. 

A Perfect Glens Falls Day 

We love spending our mornings at Crandall Park watching the ducks and then heading to the Library for story time. We would then head to Spot Coffee for an amazing latte and hang out with our friends. We love utilizing the bike trail and treating ourselves to Cooper’s Cave ice cream. My daughter loves to head to Rude Betty for some fun with Jeff (the owner) and getting a toy of course. Dinner at Mikado is also a must and then going to a hockey game and finishing the night having a beer with friends at Mean Max. 

On the Future

I would love to see an ice cream/candy shop in downtown Glens Falls!

My Glens Falls: Brenda Manra

This week, we’re chatting with Brenda Manra! A higher ed professional by day and stationer by night, Brenda shares what brought her to our little city from Southern California, the moments that have made her wonder if Glens Falls might be Stars Hollow, and so much more…

Tell us about yourself!

Hi! My name is Brenda and I am the Director of the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) at SUNY Adirondack. I live in Queensbury with my husband, Michael and our orange tabby cat, Churro. I am a higher ed professional by day and I run my side hustle, Lovely Amanecer, a stationery and gifts Etsy shop celebrating Latinx culture, by night.

On Life In and Around Glens Falls

I moved to the Glens Falls area in the summer of 2017. I am originally from Southern California and moved here to be with my now husband. We bought our little home in the summer of 2019 and one of our requirements was that it would be close to downtown Glens Falls since we love the atmosphere so much!

One of the things that I have enjoyed so much about living in this area is the amount of space that we have. We would never be able to have even half an acre of backyard in Southern California. Another thing I love about Glens Falls is the charming small town feel it has. One day I went in to get a cup of coffee from Cool Beans and realized that I forgot my wallet. The cashier told me, "No problem! Pay me when you can!" I was shocked and it was such a nice gesture during a stressful day. I went back to pay her that afternoon. That was one of those moments where I thought to myself, "Am I living in Stars Hollow and is this Gilmore Girls?". There is just something so cozy about that small town feel.

I think Glens Falls has amazing dining. Some of our favorites are Radici, Morgan and Co., Farmacy, Alif Cafe, Aroy Dee, and Docs!

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

My ideal day in Glens Falls would start bright and early at Crandall Library! We would grab a couple of books and bring them over to Spot Coffee to read with a latte and a smoked salmon bagel. That would be the perfect combination of some of my favorite things: books, coffee, people watching, and carbs! From there, we would probably head over to the Farmer's Market to get some groceries and share a crepe from Dickison's Delights! I would also like to peruse the different shops at the Shirt Factory. I love seeing what the artists and crafters are up to! My ideal day would DEFINITELY include a massage and facial over at the Spa Studio. We love their Adirondack-y atmosphere and have been going there for years now! We would end the night by grabbing dinner at one of our favorite restaurants above. Something warm and cozy, clearly I am a fan of the "hygge" life.

On the Past

This is one of my favorite memories during my first winter in Glens Falls. When I first moved here, I worked at the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce back when it was on Glen Street. We are a one car family and one evening it was snowing and my now husband texted me to say he was outside to pick me up. When I walked outside the snow was coming down BEAUTIFULLY! It was that perfect snowfall that you see in movies and my husband was playing Christmas music from the car! I love Christmas and it was just such a cute moment! We ended up driving through Crandall Park and it was so magical, I thought I was in one of those cheesy Hallmark movies.

On the Future

This is a great question! I would love to have a Poke bar downtown. We love Poke bars for the convenience and fresh ingredients, so it would be awesome to pick up some Poke bowls and eat at the park!

My Glens Falls: Amy Troelstra Meijer

This week, we’re chatting with Amy Troelstra Meijer! She shares what brought her back to Glens Falls after college, the fun way she met her husband (and the coincidence that confirmed it was meant to be!), some favorite family memories of Glens Falls, and a little family history, too!

Tell us about yourself! 

My name is Amy Troelstra Meijer. I’m currently a stay at home mother as well as an interior designer. My husband is Lodewiek Meijer and we have a 3 1/2 year old son, Willem, and a baby girl Elselina “Elsa” born March 9. I met my husband who is from The Netherlands on Travers Day at the Track through a mutual friend, and it turned out he knew my second cousin from Holland — it was just meant to be. We have a Teak horse on our front doorstep that we named Traver after the day my husband and I met. 

I was born at the The Snuggery at Glens Falls Hospital and grew up here (I’m a 2004 graduate of Glens Falls High School) until moving away for college. I attended Massachusetts College in North Adams, MA, double majoring in History and Political Science with a concentration in Sociology in 2008. From there, I went on to Suffolk University in Boston, MA where I obtained my ABA Certified Degree in Paralegal Studies in 2009, and then I continued on to get my Interior Design degree from the New York School of Interior Design in Manhattan in 2011. You could say I was going the professional student route for a while. 

I returned to Glens Falls in the summer of 2011 as I did not have a job or internship lined up, my lease was going to run out and most importantly my grandparents health was on the decline and I really wanted to spend what time left they had left with them. 

On Family History 

My mother’s parents came here to Glens Falls in 1962 when my grandfather took the position of Athletic Director and Physical Education Professor at Adirondack Community College, now SUNY Adirondack. My grandmother was originally from Pennsylvania and my grandfather from Ohio. They met at Oberlin College where they were both studying at the time — my grandfather was the football/basketball star (and going there on his GI bill from fighting in WWII as an Edson’s Raider in the United States Marine Corps), and my grandmother the beauty queen of the dorms. My grandfather retired in 1991 from the College but was inducted into their “Hall of Fame” in 2013 before he passed away later that year (just about seven months after my grandmother passed away - true love).

My father’s parents came to the United States from the Netherlands in 1955 and arrived in Glens Falls in 1967, purchasing Oedekerk’s Nursery (Garden Center) on Dix Avenue in Glens Falls and turning it into the Garden Center we know it as today — Garden Time. They later expanded to their Quaker Road location and then in 1982 they opened The Silo Restaurant. They came over knowing only a couple words of English to build their American Dream, which I think they did a fantastic job of. They are both still alive today, though divorced, but you can still find my grandfather at Garden Time every day with my dad. 

My parents technically met in youth group at the First Baptist Church on Maple Street in Glens Falls, but both attended Glens Falls High School and were high school sweethearts. They were married on Halloween in 1981, the fall after my dad graduated college. They purchased their first home, had my older brother in 1984 and I followed in 1986. The “family business” is what has kept us all here for all these years, and it was always a joy for me to return to during summer break from college. The family turned out to be not just biological but also the colleagues I worked with and very much so the customers as well!

On Life in Glens Falls 

My husband and I own a home in the Broadacres neighborhood here in Glens Falls. It has been a featured picture on the Glens Falls Living site quite a few times which makes us feel extremely honored and proud! 

The home was the first to be built in the neighborhood by the founder of the neighborhood, George K. Walker. The home is almost 100 years old, made mostly of brick, and was built to last the test of time. I love older homes (my degree In Interior Design is focused on Historical Restoration), so when we were looking for a home, this was the first one we looked at and we knew this was ours. You don’t get the kind of bulit-ins, old charm, or the glass doorknobs in the newer homes (not authentic at least), and bringing back the colors and traditions of the home from the time when it was built always gives me the “feels.” 

What I love most about the neighborhood are the people. There is a nice mix of people, empty-nesters, younger families (friends of mine also living in “the hood” now too), people with all ages of kids and even the “older” neighbors; our next door neighbor who is my parents age has become our son’s best friend and it’s just the cutest thing. During the COVID Halloween, one mother in the neighborhood put together a map of homes that were participating homes in safely handing out candy - it was no small feat, and she did an amazing job for the kids (and the parents as well), during a very uncertain time.

Some Glens Falls Favorites 

I love everything about Glens Falls. The people in the community make this city such a magical place to grow up. You feel safe, comfort, and a sense of “home” when you’re here — something my husband is just now finding out after living in Glens Falls for five years. He understands now why I have made it so clear that I wanted to raise our kids here. The history of this area is also incredible, you just can’t beat how amazing this city is!

One of my favorite spots is Cole’s Woods. The trails are so nice to walk/snowshoe/nordic ski and it is available to anyone, any time of the year! Other than that, you know I have to say Garden Time and The Silo, those are my gems! The restaurant/family owned business community here is second to none. Before COVID, my mom and I had our “Tuesday nights at Jack’s Bistro” and for our “Sunday family dinners” would usually be at Siam Thai. Both of these places and their owners know how to make people feel like family and essentially have become a part of ours.

A Perfect Glens Falls Day 

My perfect day in Glens Falls has changed so much from when I was in my 20’s to now, and it’s been even more different due to COVID. That being said, I will give you a pre-COVID perfect day. It would be the weekend (obviously), and we would get up and make breakfast at home. I love the smell of food cooking at home — it brings me back to when I was little and my mom would cook or bake and fill the house with all the good smells of love and a great childhood. If we felt like being lazy and not cooking, we’d go to The Silo.

After breakfast, we’d go on a hike in the Adirondacks or a stroll in the neighborhood or Cole’s Woods. We’d head home for lunch, and if I had it my way, we’d be eating something yummy from Kelly’s Roots. Then we’d do some yard work and chat with the neighbors (we have some pretty amazing neighbors) and most likely go for a nice long bike ride on the bike trail. We’d pick up ice cream from either Sprinkles or Coopers Cave (depending on which way we chose to ride that day). 

Since my husband and I don’t do date night very often, we would try to go somewhere we haven’t yet been, but ALWAYS someplace locally owned!  We would then come home to put our kids to bed!

On the Past 

As I said before, I just have too many great memories to file through. I loved making cookies and candies with my Gram, and having sleep overs at their house when my parents went out of town. My grandparents were truly the most amazing people. We would have little adventures when taking walks “around the block,” and sometimes my brother and I would join my grandmother in picking up groceries from around the corner at Barber’s Market on Shippey Street. 

I have only the greatest of memories here — the memories I shared growing up learning life lessons from my mom’s parents, them taking me and my older brother to Crandall Park, and the Memorial Day parades my grandfather marched in every year. I too marched in 13 or so parades between Girl Scouts, Little League, and band. We would always have a picnic in the park that my Grandmother prepared after the parade.  

Sporting events at school, especially when the teams would make State finals, traveling with friends to support the Red and Black was always so much fun. Balloon Festival time (always my favorite-usually ends up being my birthday weekend).  

Growing up there aren’t very many memories that don’t include my Grandparents, my Gram taught me to bake, tie my shoes, sew and my Grandfather was an excellent craftsman (especially of wooden toys- I still have the “Three Bears House” that he made for me and my brother when we were little and my Gram handpainted all of the bears, beds (with quilts that looked like the ones in their house), stools, and even the bowls of porridge.

On the Future

What is the area missing?! IKEA, I would die, just die for an IKEA… oh please, an IKEA!

P.S. See more from our My Glens Falls series here.

P.P.S. Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed this story and those like it here on GFL, please consider supporting our hometown content by clicking here. With your support, we can continue to share the stories of the people, places, and businesses that make our area so special. Thank you - we appreciate you being here more than you know!

My Glens Falls: Neha Golwala

This week, we’re chatting with Neha Golwala! She shares what brought her family to the area, how Glens Falls compares to her hometown in India, her family’s Saturday morning tradition, and much more below!

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Neha Golwala. I am a physical therapist working at Zuppa Physical Therapy P.C. in Burnt Hills. I live in Queensbury with my husband and a daughter.

I grew up in India and I did my Bachelor's of Physical Therapy from India. I did my Doctor of Physical Therapy from A.T. Still University, Arizona, and then I worked in New York City for one year. My husband and I moved to upstate NY in January 2011.

Here, I worked for Adirondack Physical Therapy and Fitness for 10 years and now I work at Zuppa Physical Therapy P.C. as of December 2020. My passion is to work on a holistic approach and body mind awareness and I enjoy my work.

On Life in and Around Glens Falls

My first port of entry into the USA was New Jersey in 2008. We lived there for two years. In the summer of 2010, we visited Lake Geroge. We fell in love with the beauty of the region. We dreamed of moving here.

In September, 2010, our dream came true. My husband got a job at Hannen Engineering in Queensbury and I ended up moving here in January 2011.

My husband and I grew up in small town in India, so the Glens Falls area is perfect for us.

We own a home in Queensbury. We love our neighborhood. People are very kind, nice, and friendly.

Some Glens Falls Favorites

I am connected to the arts. Glens Falls has many beautiful places such as the World Awareness Children's Museum, the Hyde collection, and Crandall Public Library. I volunteer at World Awareness Children’s Museum for Indian cultural activities and kids yoga.

The Thursday night Shirt Factory events, Friday outdoor family movie night in Glens Falls City Park, and Cooper's Cave ice cream alley are fun places to visit in summer. We enjoy the Adirondack Balloon Festival in the fall. West Mountain, Lake George Winter Carnival, and watching ice hockey in Glens Falls Recreation Center are winter fun activities for us. We enjoy the garden centers and local hikes in spring. Glens Falls Farmer's Market is a fun place to visit all year round.

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

We have many beautiful memories in Glens Falls. Every Saturday we eat lunch at Juicin’ Jar. I love to have a coffee date at Spot Coffee with my friends. My husband and I like to visit Davidson Brothers, Morgan & Co., and Gourmet Cafe pasta night for date night.

I love to walk around Glens Falls when weather is nice. In winter, when my daughter plays in the play area of Crandall Public Library, I love to sit close to the big window and read the recipe books and enjoy the city view. We enjoy skiing, snow tubing, ice climbing in winter, hiking all year around, white water rafting in spring/summer, and several events in summer.

On the Past

One of my favorite memories in Glens Falls is when I hosted Diwali - the festival of lights at World Awareness Children’s Museum. I received an overwhelming response from the community. Kids and adults sat and patiently listened about our culture, enjoyed Indian crafts and snacks, and asked me questions. What a fun day!

On the Future

I would love to bring an Indian temple and Indian restaurant in this area. I miss them the most.

See more from our My Glens Falls series here.

P.S. Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed this story and those like it here on GFL, please consider supporting our hometown content by clicking here. With your support, we can continue to share the stories of the people, places, and businesses that make our area so special. Thank you - we appreciate you being here more than you know!

My Glens Falls: Alexandra Barbieri

We’re chatting with Alexandra Barbieri this week! A registered dietitian by day and a server at Raul’s by night (yes, that’s where you likely recognize her from!), she shares her favorite places to hit the trails with her sweet pup Willow, the club she’s starting for people who like to run, drink some beer and mingle, and so much more!

Tell us about yourself!

Hello! My name is Alexandra Barbieri. I’m an avid hiker, foodie (a fancy term which means I just really like going out to restaurants), rock climber and proud mother of a 3-year-old Yellow Lab/Golden Retriever mix named Willow. We love to get outside in all conditions and seasons to run through the woods and go swimming, once it’s warmer of course. Lake George makes me the happiest girl during the summer, as I’m very lucky to get on the lake multiple times a season. It really is the most beautiful lake. 

I just accepted my dream job as a Registered Dietitian with Hudson Headwaters about 6 months ago. My specialty is working with patients on their journey to living a healthier lifestyle; whether that be through weight loss, increased activity, managing their diabetes or navigating the food aisles at the grocery stores to help pick more wholesome options for their families. I love being part of the preventative side of nutrition instead of just part of the treatment. The network is wonderful and provides my services at no charge to our patients. During the day, I meet with patients about their nutrition and lifestyle and at night you will often find me as one of the old school servers at Raul’s Mexican Grill. I’ve worked at Raul’s Mexican Grill for the last 8 years, which is how most people downtown recognize me. 

My family and I grew up in Hudson Falls. I’ve had strong ties there, as my father and uncle owned Dajon’s, a bridal store right across from the park. They also had a second location right here in Glens Falls on Glen Street. When I was 9 or 10, I remember walking down Glen Street with my dad to get a pair of shoes and thinking how downtown was very bare. My parents had always described Glens Falls as a former bustling small city, however the opening of the mall lead to a decline of small local businesses, including both Dajon’s locations.

After high school, I completed 2 years at SUNY ADK then went away to SUNY Cortland, Sage Graduate School and lastly Syracuse University to complete my schooling. It took a long 9 years to finally finish (“no, I’m not a doctor” I would tell my family). After finishing school, I moved home, but I remember thinking it would just be temporary as I had plans to move to Burlington, VT. However, I soon realized how much Glens Falls had developed and had even become quite the destination. I immediately got a job as a server at Raul’s and started “one last summer of freedom” before taking my RD exam and starting my career. Long story short, I stayed and fully immersed myself in the Glens Falls scene. Willow and I did take a brief hiatus to move to Troy for 10 months last year (right before Covid) but realized that Glens Falls was our home. Here we are closer to the trails, mountains and to the lake. I found an apartment just outside of downtown, and we love it. Willow has a yard and we’re also super close to Haviland’s Cove so we can play in the river with our nearby friends. I’d like to buy a home in the next year or so, but I’m not in any rush.

Some Glens Falls Favorites

My favorite part of Glens Falls is the “hometown” community feel. People who work and live downtown are considered neighbors, friends and even family to one another. I was fortunate to live downtown for over 3 years and I loved running in to the other locals every day. Most of the coffee shops, restaurants and stores contain the friendly and familiar faces I enjoy seeing every day. I consider it my own kind of “Cheers” vibe spread throughout this city. 

When I was away during college, I would tell friends about our little “hidden gem” West Mountain, which isn’t exactly hidden. We’re super fortunate to have this right outside of the city, and growing up, I really enjoyed night skiing overlooking the city lights with my dad. I appreciate that I can run home after work, grab skis, and get some runs in before the night is over. I don’t ski as often as I used to, but I make sure to visit West Mountain a few nights every year and prove to myself that I still can ski. I truly enjoy it, just as I did when I was a little kid. 

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

My ideal day in Glens Falls would be one with no set plans. I would start the day with Willow, friends, and their pups on the Hudson Point Trail, or the new expanded Half Way Brook trail right outside of downtown. From there, we’d go visit our friends at Spektor for coffee and an omelet. I may go Rock Climbing at Rocksport, if the weather isn’t optimal for more outdoor activities, and then head back into town to grab my 12th pair of Goodr glasses at Fountain Square Outfitters or my 38th dress from Minky Mink. I’d then make a reservation at [farmacy] with friends for dinner, because I like to attempt to order most of the entire menu. Their staples are a no brainer (sourdough bread and shishito peppers), in addition to whatever new entrée and dessert they have on the menu. My crew knows the deal when they are with me - the night isn’t over yet, and we will make our way to Mean Max or Raul’s for drinks afterwards. 

On the Past

What I miss most about downtown Glens Falls is Bistro Tallulah. My high expectation for what dining and service should be was established at 26 Ridge Street and created by my good friend, the late Chef Shawn Whalen. I would describe the Bistro to many as the party you wanted to be invited to; where great minds, foodies and misfits would gather. 

On the Future

If I could wave a wand, I would bring a music scene back to Glens Falls (can we get another Sandys?). There are many talented musicians who would play at the drop of a hat once allowed, but there are limited venues to do so.

On a smaller scale, a corner store or a bodega would be a fantastic addition. I’d love a place downtown to grab my milk, eggs, fruit and toilet paper on a whim if I need it. You know, the basics.

Lastly, I’d love to see more social avenues for people who want to be active. I have some ideas in mind to start a Runners Club downtown for people to run, drink some beer and mingle (6 feet apart of course). [Editors Note: She already made it happen! Find the Glens Falls Running Club on Facebook here!]

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P.S. Check out more from our My Glens Falls series here!

My Glens Falls: Bethanie Muska Lawrence

This week we’re chatting with Bethanie Muska Lawrence, who you might recognize as the Director of the World Awareness Children's Museum! After living all over the United States, she shares what brought her to our little city, a bit more about her career journey, and some of the local spots that have come to top her list of favorites over the past couple of years.

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Bethanie Muska Lawrence, and I'm the Executive Director of the World Awareness Children's Museum. I live in Hudson Falls with my husband, Patrick, and we've lived here since February 2018, when we relocated from Nashville, Tennessee. 

I grew up in Northern New Jersey and went to college at the University of South Carolina, where I got my degree in Music Education. I've lived all over the place and have taught in Newburgh, New York, Phoenix, Arizona, Franklin, Tennessee, Nashville, Tennessee, and Ramsey, New Jersey. I had never expected to work in a museum, but I got the opportunity to apply for a museum educator job at the World Awareness Children's Museum after my husband and I moved up here, and it changed my career path forever. I went from Museum Educator to Education Coordinator to Deputy Director to Executive Director all in the span of two years. I love my job, I love getting to make a difference in children's lives, and I love that we're able to teach children to be curious about different cultures and people groups. This is sincerely the best job I've ever had.

On Life In and Around Glens Falls

We chose the Glens Falls area because of my husband's job. I grew up in Northern New Jersey and he grew up outside of Hershey, Pennsylvania, and we were happy to be moving back north after living in Tennessee for a year. I love being in the northeast because we're close to both of our families, and living in or near the mountains has always been something I've wanted. Something I think about often is that I grew up going to and working at a summer camp in Corinth, and never expected to actually get to live in an area where I have so many fond memories from childhood. It's been wonderful to be able to make the Adirondacks our home.

We rent an apartment in Hudson Falls, and it's perfect for us. We love that people are genuinely kind, and our neighbors are friendly. I am on the Board of Trustees for the Hudson Falls Free Library, and I enjoy being active in the community.

I love that Glens Falls has so many arts organizations! I have always found solace in the arts - I was a music major in college and studied opera and choral music, and went on to be a music teacher for five or six years before moving to New York. The fact that there are so many ways to experience art - whether at LARAC, North Country Arts, the Hyde, the Chapman, and more - makes this my favorite of all the places I've lived. There is also a robust music scene, including the Glens Falls Symphony and local choral groups. I sing with the Hudson River Chorale and the SUNY Adirondack Community Choir (when there isn't a pandemic), both run by Miriam Enman, and being part of those groups feeds my soul more than anything else.

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

I love grabbing coffee and breakfast at Rachel's Cafe & Spice Company. Rachel and her team are extraordinarily friendly and have the best food and coffee. My husband and I like to take walks around town and window shop because there's always something great to be found. We like to visit Finders Keepers and see what's new in the consignment shop, maybe grab a drink and a pastry at SPOT Coffee, and enjoy the weather. For date nights, we like to visit Craft on 9 for dinner and drinks, and then go home to watch a movie.

This is kind of silly, but honestly, my favorite place in Glens Falls is my office at the World Awareness Children's Museum. I have a wall of windows next to my desk, and I can look out right down to the circle in downtown Glens Falls. I love being able to people-watch and enjoy the sunshine while I'm working. Even though work can be challenging sometimes, I feel very at peace at the museum. We have a great team culture here, and I get along so well with all of the staff. I love what we do at the museum - teaching children and families about our diverse and exciting world - and spending my weekday here is wonderful.

On the Past

One of my favorite memories in Glens Falls is from when we first moved here. It was maybe my second time at the summer Farmers Market, and I was still fairly new to the area. I didn't know many people yet, but I saw so many familiar faces that morning at the Farmer's Market, and all of them stopped to chat with me. It made me feel incredibly welcome. 

On the Future

I would bring a Trader Joe's to the area. That's definitely something I miss from other places I've lived!

My Glens Falls: Nicholas Chowske

We’re chatting with Nicholas Chowske this week! You may recognize him as a contributor to GFL (check out his story on Halfway Brook Trail here!), and we were thrilled to get to know him a bit better. He shares the literal wrong turn that led him to his work in writing and photojournalism, his favorite hidden gem in the city, and lots more…

Tell us about yourself!

Hello! My name is Nicholas Chowske, and I live in Queensbury, with my wife, Andrea, our two boys, Levi (8) and Luke (5), our two cats, Lucy and Terra.

You may recognize me from the Quaker Road Hannaford deli, where I’ve worked nights for nearly six years now, or most recently as a contributing writer to Glens Falls Living, but my favorite job has been stay-at-home-dad, which I’ve been loving for the past 8 years. 

On Life In and Around Glens Falls

My wife and I are both from the area - I grew up in South Glens Falls, and graduated from South High in 2001, and Andrea from Queensbury High School in 2002. College and careers moved us all across the state, but it was family that brought us back home. 

I first went to SUNY Brockport, where I earned a degree in Criminal Justice and Environmental Science, which I intended to turn into a career as a forest ranger. I met Andrea the summer before my senior year, while we were both working at the Price Chopper on Glen Street, and we moved to Plattsburgh together after I graduated in 2005, where she was still attending school. In Plattsburgh, I had the opportunity to take a forest ranger civil service exam, but unfortunately, I got lost on the way to the test (who knew there was a Saranac High School and a Saranac Lake High School?). I enrolled at SUNY Plattsburgh to take some photography and writing classes in the meantime, while I waited for another civil service exam, and my wife finished her degree in Nutrition and Dietetics. I ended up falling in love with my courses, and graduated from SUNY Plattsburgh with a degree in Photojournalism in 2010. 

After a brief stint working as a photographer and communications writer for Swarovski Crystal’s lighting factory in Plattsburgh, my wife was offered a job as a dietitian at Southampton Hospital, in 2012, so it was off to Long Island. Shortly after arriving, I landed a job as a society photographer, features writer and wine reviewer at a weekly news magazine called “Dan’s Papers”, which covers the Hamptons, Shelter Island, and Long Island’s North Fork. 

Our first son, Levi, was born on the island in 2013. As much as we loved the work we were doing, we had no family in the area, our thoughts began to turn toward home. As luck would have it, an opening for a dietitian came up at Glens Falls Hospital, shortly after our son’s first birthday, and we were back home by fall of 2014. 

In 2015, we bought our house, a 3-bedroom ranch built in 1957, and we absolutely adore it. All through the purchase process, I had a feeling that as soon as we signed the papers, something better would turn up, but here we are six years later, and it’s still the perfect fit for us. We live in a quiet, friendly neighborhood, that’s within walking distance of Cole’s Woods, Crandall Park and Kensington Road School, where our oldest is in 2nd grade. Since we’ve moved in, a number of other young families, with children close in age to ours, have joined the neighborhood, and I can tell they’ll likely be lifelong friends. 

Some Glens Falls Favorites

The best thing about Glens Falls, for me, is all of the wonderful natural amenities the area has to offer. I grew up hiking and mountain biking all over the area, and Glens Falls is in close proximity to so many amazing mountains, lakes and rivers. Being close to nature is important for us, and where we are now, we’re never more than a short walk, ride or drive from an amazing outdoor adventure. 

Aside from the area’s natural beauty, my favorite place in the city is easily Crandall Public Library. Before the pandemic, my family and I made trips to the library nearly every week to stock up on books, or to enjoy their amazing events and programs. The staff there has always been so knowledgeable and friendly, and their children’s programs are absolutely wonderful! I fondly remember taking both of my boys to the baby lap time and toddler story times and playgroups each week for stories, songs and games - we absolutely loved them!

And, even though the pandemic has closed the library’s doors, they’ve done a fantastic job of accommodating the community’s needs with their curbside-pickup service and pop-in library days. Thanks to their hard work, the perfect book is never more than a few clicks away!

This brings me to my favorite Glens Falls “hidden gem” - the library’s quarterly books sale. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve walked into the sale with a couple of dollars in my pocket, and walked out with more books than I could read in a lifetime!

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

I love Glens Falls in early summer, when everything is lush, green and full of potential. Everyone is out and about, exploring the city or working in their yards and gardens. My ideal “Glens Falls Day” would begin by hitting up the Farmer’s Market first thing in the morning for some fresh fruits and vegetables, followed by a trip to the library. Then, a cup of coffee at Spot or Spektor- or even better, brunch at the Silo - followed by an afternoon of hiking and swimming at the lake. Then it’s home to clean up, and dinner at Siam Thai - the Drunken Noodles for me, and Sushi for my wife - and drinks at Downtown Social, followed by a stroll around downtown or a show at the Park Theater.

On the Past

My favorite memory of Glens Falls, since moving back home, would have to be our 10th wedding anniversary back in 2018. It was early June, and our parents had taken the kids overnight, so we could have our first “real date” in a long time. Having heard such rave reviews, we decided on Morgan & Co. for our celebratory dinner. The weather was perfect, and we sat on the porch, where I enjoyed what was probably the best steak dinner of my life. After we ate, we decided it was much too nice of a night to turn in early, so we drove home, got on our bikes and rode back downtown to check out the nightlife. We found our way to The Bourbon Room, where I tried one of their signature cocktails, the “Rosemary’s Baby.” It was a great night, and the perfect way to cap off our first 10 years of marriage.

 On the Future

Glens Falls is conveniently situated between two huge tourist destinations - Lake George to the north, and Saratoga Springs to the south. I’ve always felt that the city could capitalize on this by becoming a hub for dining and lodging in the area. Glens Falls could thrive as the place people come to stay and relax or enjoy a great meal between adventures in the outlying areas. The city could bring everything from fine dining, luxury accommodations and day spas, down to tapas bars, food trucks and art galleries, to attract people to this beautiful area. 

My Glens Falls: Avery Babson

This week, we caught up with Avery Babson and her sweet family! She shares what brought her back to the city after college, reminisces about her favorite downtown memories from her childhood, and fills us in on the exciting adventure her family is about to embark on (spoiler alert: it involves an 1890 fixer upper!).

Tell us about yourself!

¡Hola! I’m Avery Babson, a Glens Falls Middle School Spanish teacher, drama club director, The Resolutions singer, Glens Falls Community Theatre actor/director,  and Feeder Canal Trail lover. I live in Glens Falls with the most amazing husband, Steve Babson--who unsolicitedly packs my school lunches each day--and our two crazy beautiful kids. Trey, our creative and inquisitive first grader, is an aspiring stop motion lego animator, scientist, comedian, haunted house director, illustrator, and an avid Mo Willems reader. Our pre-schooler and beacon of light, Eve, sings from the moment she wakes until the moment she falls asleep. We are proud. 

On Life In and Around Glens Falls

I grew up on a dead end street across from Crandall Park. It was there that I put on my first pair of skates (double blades!) and dove after fly balls in the field with my dad. As the years went by, our house turned out to be a very convenient location for a quick trip to the rec center for hockey practice. After graduating from GFHS in 2001, I retired my hockey skates and field hockey stick, packed up my bags, and flew to Bolivia where I lived as a Rotary exchange student for a year. From there, I attended ACC, SUNY Albany and then moved to New York City to study acting and musical theatre.

Through all my adventures, I always knew that I wanted to settle in Glens Falls. When the Wood Theater began to boom and more and more restaurants, breweries and cafés popped up, it became apparent that it was time to move back (not to mention, student loans and NYC apartment prices do not mix). The universe picked the right time.  Shortly after I returned, I met my husband at a mutual friend’s downtown apartment.  Three years later (and after completing my MA in Teaching from SUNY Plattsburgh), we shared our vows at the Charles R. Wood Theater in front of an audience filled with our closest friends and family. It was the perfect venue for two Glens Falls natives--one a singer, the other a percussionist--to start their journey as husband and wife. 

This past July, we sold our Glens Falls starter home in a day (thank you, Alexis Feldbusch)! On the first day back to school, we frantically threw the last of our belongings into boxes and said goodbye to the walls that held the memories of Trey and Eve’s first steps. Being a seller’s market, the inventory was low, so we have been living in an adorable Airbnb owned by new friends (big shout-out to Ryan and Claudia Braymer!). We call the Airbnb our “adventure house” because, well, this process has certainly been an adventure! Nevertheless, our time at the adventure house will soon come to a close because a new adventure awaits in our new Glens Falls home! We are slated to close any day now and already have a team lined up to help tackle our adorable 1890’s fixer-upper. Between the massive yard filled with mature berry bushes, and the location of being conveniently close to downtown, the Feeder Canal (my absolute favorite running spot), Haviland’s Cove, and the kids’ elementary school, I think we may have found our forever home. Stay tuned! 

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

Though I don’t know if we’ve ever squeezed all of the following in one day, we may have come close. So, here goes… 

My perfect day in Glens Falls during the summer months starts with a morning run on the Feeder Canal Trail. The sound of the waterfall on the Hudson to my right as the morning sun beams on the misty canal to my left reminds me just how lucky we are to live where we do every single time.  

Next, a walk downtown with the kids to pick up lunch and a latte at Spot Coffee would be a must. We like to take our lunch to City Park, play tag, and dance in the gazebo.  Then, we walk over to visit Steve at his Edward Jones office located in the historic Smith Flatts building on the corner of Bay and Washington.

After lunch, the kids and I either spend an afternoon at Crandall Library, The GO World Awareness Children’s Museum, or swimming at my grandmother’s pool with Grandpa Bobby (my dad).

Once Steve is through with work, the chef is in the house! Steve loves cooking for his family. It is one of his favorite things….and we love his cooking. Did I say I'm a lucky wife? But, if we have a baby sitter, a date night sushi dinner at Mikado would be our go-to place, followed by a beverage at Craft on 9.  Or if we time it right, a Lake Theatre show would be the most ideal! 

On the Past

This is tough. There are so many memories to count! Having lived here most of my life, I think some of the simpler memories from early childhood stick out the most…like riding my bike to Cooney's Candy Store located on Montcalm Street with my cousin, Nathaniel Brochu. We thought we were so cool buying our own penny candy and snaps at 8 years old.

I fondly remember the treat of a late summer afternoon with my father and brother, Bo Clark, at the original New Way Lunch on South Street. Even as a young girl, I acknowledged just how special the place was with its chrome-top booths and ripped vinyl seats covered in duct tape. Two dirt dogs with the works, key lime pie and a cola was our staple order….and we always stayed until my father was out of change for the jukebox.

Most summer evenings were spent sitting with my grandparents on their front porch on South Street. My grandfather, Bob Clark Sr., was an English teacher and councilman who seemingly knew everyone in the community (or perhaps everyone knew him). If people weren’t stopping to talk as they walked by, they slowed their cars down to wave to my grandfather as they drove by.

On the Future

If I could wave a magic wand and bring something to the city, it would be…. 

A downtown playground - there were so many times (pre-Covid) that I brought the kids to the library or museum and wished for a downtown playground so they could quickly burn off energy before returning home for an afternoon nap. Oh, how I miss naps!

I would love to see some sort of extension of Exchange Street- like a GF version of Church Street in Burlington!

My kids would probably be too old if this ever played out, but a splash park would be wonderful for little ones in our community (akin to Gavin Splash Park in Wilton).

With or without a magic wand, there are so many good things happening in our community. I am hopeful that when Covid bites the dust, it will continue to flourish and grow. I just love our little city and all the stories its streets can tell.

See more from our My Glens Falls series here!

My Glens Falls: Kate Arney

This week, we’re chatting with Kate Arney, who you might recognize as a teacher at Glens Falls High School! She shares the sweet story of how her family ended up in their (adorable!) Glens Falls home, the perfect way to start your Sunday morning (hint: it involves the most delicious pastries), and a recent Glens Falls memory that’s likely high on everyone’s list of favorites…

Tell us about yourself!

Hi, I’m Katie Arney! I am an English teacher at Glens Falls High School. I love working in the district where I live and my daughters attend Glens Falls as well - Abby (9) is in 3rd grade and Maggie (almost 7!) is in 1st grade. My husband, Joe, works for Canoe Island Lodge on Lake George where we met and is the reason we ended up here! In fact, we love GF so much that my parents ended up moving here and are the owners of The Bell House Inn!

On Life In and Around Glens Falls

Joe and I met while working summers during college at Canoe Island Lodge, on Lake George. While in graduate school, we lived in Lake George and were trying to decide what our next life step would be after graduation. I am from outside of Albany and Joe is from Long Island, so we both sort of had our hometowns in our minds when considering our next move. Serendipitously, I was assigned to student teach at Glens Falls Middle School and I immediately fell in love with the area. One Sunday, we explored the adorable neighborhoods and it clicked - we knew immediately we wanted to settle down in Glens Falls.

We started looking at houses in the Glens Falls area and purchased a split-level ranch on a beautiful street that needed some updating. We loved that house and brought both of our babies home to that house. I fondly look back on those pictures now and am so proud of the work we did to make it the perfect home for us at that time. We honestly never planned to leave there, but life works in strange ways.

In 2012, we sadly lost Joe’s mother to cancer, and a couple of years later, his father remarried and decided it was time to sell the house. Joe decided we needed to find room in our house for his mother’s baby grand piano as he has such fond memories with the piano and his mother. Joe started doodling ways to find space in our house for this piano - including taking down walls, or getting rid of our dining room table! One night, I suggested we buy his parents’ house since it’s just around the block from our current house and the piano fits perfectly in the living room. He immediately said no, I said okay, and went to sleep for the night. The next morning, I awoke to Joe desperately waiting for me to wake up - he had stayed up all night considering my suggestion and decided we should go for it!

Our home now is an L-shaped Cape Cod built in 1934 from plans originally in a Better Homes and Garden magazine. The kitchen is in the back of the house with lots of windows allowing gorgeous light to pour in. We spend so much of our time in that room - cooking, eating, crafting, reading, visiting with friends. We also have so much more room in our current home allowing us to host family at holidays, and lately, have space for my sister-in-law, Meg, to escape Washington, D.C. during the pandemic and stay with us! This is definitely our forever home!

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

Life in quarantine has brought a new perspective to everything, but we have found some things that put a smile on our faces, and they will continue to even after this pandemic.

Our perfect morning starts with bagels and pastries delivered from Bear’s Cup, Bolton. They deliver to our area on Sunday mornings. I’m not sure what I used to indulge in prior to meeting their famous bear claw, but I can assure you, it will change your world! Later in the day, we will enjoy one of the amazing winter activities we have at our finger-tips: sledding at Gurney Lane, skating at Crandall Park or skiing at West Mountain. Upon our return, we will warm up with a hot cocoa bomb from Abby’s Cookie Jar and a cookie. Finally, ordering in dinner from one of our spectacular downtown restaurants. Last time was from Radici: salad, short ribs and mashed potatoes, and caramel budino - yum! And we, of course, have Common Roots beer on hand to have in front of the fire after dinner. 

On the Past

One of my favorite memories was honestly not that long ago, but right now feels like an eternity due to the pandemic. In 2019, the Glens Falls Boys Basketball team made it not only to the State Championship, but the Federation Tournament here at the COOL Insuring arena. The local pride was palpable - being at games among a sea of red and black, the lines around the block waiting to get into the arena for games, the sound of the cheering crowds, it was such a unifying time for our city. On a more personal note, I was able to see my students’ dreams come true creating memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. As a family, we enjoyed going to basketball games and seeing the parade. As a teacher, I saw my students bonding, making posters, and planning trips to games together. Groups of teachers traveled together to games in various locations near and far. As a community member, I felt the excitement through the town with just one outcome in mind - GF wins! At the start of that season, I bought a red and black GF shirt from Hallwear with glitter-fabric on the arms. I wore that shirt to every game as well as to school every Friday. I became superstitious about the shirt and if they played back-to-back games, I had to do an emergency load of laundry! After the Federation tournament, I retired that shirt, but have it saved as a keepsake.  

On the Future

Glens Falls has so many amazing restaurants and coffee shops, and I’m excited to see more places offering brunch! One shop I miss often is Sterling & Co, so I would love to see a home goods shop back in Glens Falls! I would also love an app to alert the ice cream truck that we would like a drive-by! Lastly, I would love to see a community pool. Growing up, the town pool was the family place to be complete with a concession stand with the best chicken fingers!

See more from our My Glens Falls series here.

My Glens Falls: Cara Greenslade

We’re chatting with Cara Greenslade this week, who you may recognize as one of the owners of Sidekick Creative (remember our coloring pages last year? They were the masterminds who brought them to life!). Cara shares what brought her back to Glens Falls after college, the best spur of the moment real estate decision she made, sweet memories from her downtown wedding last summer, and more!

Tell us about yourself!

Hello! My name is Cara Greenslade. I am Business Director and part owner at Sidekick Creative, a local graphic design firm. I’m the only non-designer in our small team of four, but I love working in the creative space and working with so many other great businesses in the area and beyond. We work with a lot of destinations, events and non-profits on branding, layout (brochures, publications) and custom illustrations. Every day brings something different, we have the best team and clients, and it’s a pretty awesome feeling to actually enjoy going to into work everyday.

I live right in Glens Falls with my husband (we just got married six months ago so the word husband still sounds weird to me), Ethan, and our cat, Onyx. We both love it here and have no plans of ever leaving!

On Life In Glens Falls

I have lived in Glens Falls since I was 10. I left for college and came back to Glens Falls for what I thought was only going to be a temporary stay until I figured something else out. It was around this time that downtown Glens Falls was really coming alive again. I started to see Glens Falls not just as my childhood hometown, but as a great place to put down more roots and start a career. I think my main motive for leaving was living somewhere a little warmer, but every year I start to enjoy the four seasons a little more. And there’s nothing quite like heading downtown on the first warm spring day after a long winter and enjoying a drink outside at one of the restaurants.

A year or two after graduating, I ran into my old friend from high school and coworker from my lifeguarding days at Million Dollar Beach, and now over six years later we’re married, we both have careers we love here, and we really enjoy being within walking distance to both of our parents.

We own a multi-family home within a five minute walk of downtown. My parents and I bought it on whim around three years ago. I was renting an apartment with no immediate plans on buying a house (I had just started a business!) and we saw this house get listed at a great price. My mom and I decided to check it out and that same night we put an offer in. It was one of the craziest, but best spur of the moment decisions I’ve ever made. We live in one apartment and rent the two others and are lucky to have great tenants. The apartment we’ve been living in needed the most work and three years later we’re just putting on the final touches with A LOT of help from our parents. The house was really solidly built so the work we’ve been doing is just cosmetic for the most part, but we’ve got big plans for the other two apartments and outside for the future!

Some Glens Falls Favorites

I love the walkability, especially in the warmer months. We’re lucky to live in a part of town where we can walk to downtown in five minutes, to Crandall Park in ten and to work in 20 minutes (our studio is in The Shirt Factory). I also love the events - LARAC June Arts Fest, Taste of the North County, Fourth of July Fireworks and the Symphony in Crandall Park, and the Balloon Fest just to name a few.

I don’t think this is exactly a hidden gem, but if you don’t know about the Fenimore’s Happy Hour, you should! It’s a favorite of ours, especially on winter Fridays. Post Covid, I know it will be one of the first places we go. The staff is so friendly, the ambiance is cozy and laid back, and the food and drink are great! And there’s usually live piano or a jazz trio playing in the beautiful lobby.

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

To be very specific, it would be a warm, sunny, summer Saturday. My husband and I would walk to the Farmers’ Market to stock up on fresh veggies and cheese, grab a latte at Spektor, and head to Rude Betty to grab a gift for a friend or family member. Before heading home we might enjoy our coffee in City Park. After that my mom and I might check out some garage sales and grab ice cream for lunch at Coopers Cave, Rob & Deb’s or Sprinkles. In the afternoon, Ethan and I would most likely be heading to one of our parents houses to hang out by the pool. We’d finish out the day by meeting friends for dinner and drinks at Raul’s or Mikado, or if we were doing a date night, heading to Farmacy or Radici.

On the Past

This is a not too distant memory, but this past June, in the midst of the pandemic, Ethan and I got married with just our immediate family in attendance. After a ceremony in my parents yard, we headed downtown for photos followed by a delicious dinner at Morgan & Co. It was a beautiful day and people were taking advantage of outdoor dining and just being outside walking around. As we walked around downtown getting photos, people were clapping, yelling congratulations and honking. We were so happy, and there was so much good energy in Glens Falls surrounding us. Once we got to Morgan & Co, our families surprised us by setting up our first dance on the front lawn (something we originally didn’t plan on doing) and inviting all of our local friends and family who weren’t able to attend (because of Covid) to watch — socially distant style. No one forgets their wedding day, but I know this memory will always be there to remind Ethan and I why we love where we live.

On the Future

Some things I’d love to see:

Restaurant - Mediterranean, healthy-ish.

Business - Ethan always talks about wanting an arcade style bar/restaurant in Glens Falls so throwing this in.

Public Space - I love Exchange Street and I think any way we can make it even better, expand it or create more spaces like this in Glens Falls would be awesome.

Store - Small grocery or bodega in Glens Falls with the basics and some easy to-go or take-and-bake style meals for easy dinners.

Crandall Park - I’m throwing this in just because I feel like the park has come alive in the last few years and they are doing so many things right. New courts, ice-skating, disc golf — all of it is so great!

My Glens Falls: Naftali Rottenstreich

We caught up with Naftali this week and gosh, if we weren’t nostalgic for pre-pandemic life before (okay, we were), we most certainly are even more so now. He shares his favorite ways to spend time in our little city, with the added benefit of an outside perspective from having lived in Manhattan for many years.

Speaking of nostalgia, Naftali just so happened to own Red Fox Books along with his wife Susan in the early 2000s, and hearing his stories made us wish we were strolling through the bookstore on Ridge Street again!

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Naftali Rottenstreich and for the last ten years I’ve been a professor of English at SUNY Adirondack. My wife, Susan Fox, and I have called Glens Falls home since 2006, when we moved up from New York City to open Red Fox Books. In addition to ourselves, our home consists of three “spirited” (read: impish) felines: Lucy, Gretel, and Pip.

I also serve on the boards of the Glens Falls Symphony and the SUNY Adirondack Foundation and, for ten years, was a member of the Crandall Public Library Board. This is one of the fundamental ways life in Glens Falls differs from life in New York CIty―there are so many opportunities to have a direct and meaningful impact on one’s community.

On Life In and Around Glens Falls

By 2006, my wife and I had been long ready to leave NYC. To me, the City had become unrecognizable. Susan, who’s originally from Colorado, wanted to return to a setting close to nature. Several months before we made the move, a friend left Manhattan and settled in Washington County. We’d visit her regularly and fell in love with the region. In time, we learned that Glens Falls was eager for a bookstore (this was in the early days of the City’s revitalization), and we saw this as our opportunity for a new life. We leapt at that opportunity. Red Fox Books opened in October 2006 and remained in business until October 2011.

We were both fortunate enough to find work after our store closed. Susan was hired by SUNY Empire State College in Saratoga, and I was hired as an English professor and remedial specialist at SUNY Adirondack. As much as I loved running a bookstore, the great joy in my life is helping students, who often face incredible economic and social obstacles, discover their potential and cheering them on as they advance toward their life’s dream.

While our decision to shutter the bookstore was a difficult one, the most significant chapter of my life would have gone unwritten (puns not intended) had Red Fox not closed.

Shortly after we moved to Glens Falls, we bought a house on Orville Street. Like many of the homes in the 4th Ward, it was probably built by a factory worker. In fact, the beams in the basement bear the marks of what was once a local mill.

After a day of research at the County offices in Lake George, I was able to trace the house back to 1860. We’ve also learned that the house has been owned by a number of interesting people, including a chauffeur for the Pruyn family.

We love the house (which we have affectionately nicknamed “Little Orville”) but it is never not a fixer-upper. It is, however, ideally located for walking. Downtown, Crandall Park, the farmer’s market―all are in easy proximity.

Some Glens Falls Favorites

I may have the benefit of the outsider’s perspective, but I do hope Glens Falls natives recognize how fortunate they are: a world-class museum in the Hyde, a great orchestra in the Glens Falls Symphony; a tremendous community resource in the Crandall Library. But beyond these institutions, there are the immediate opportunities (and obligations) to engage in civic life. When you live in a city of nine million people, it’s very hard to feel that you can make a difference to the welfare of your community. In Glens Falls, there are countless ways to make such a difference.

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

It’s hard to see through the haze of the pandemic (now in its tenth month), but what I recollect with fondness is eating sushi at the bar at Siam Thai Sushi; decompressing with colleagues at Fenimore’s; grading papers at Spot or before a fireplace at the Crandall Library; hanging out at the Hyde on a winter’s afternoon; sitting in the audience of a Glens Falls Symphony performance. Even working out at the Y now feels nostalgic.

Because I am an avid walker, my ideal day also includes a walk through Crandall Park and around the various neighborhoods that make up our city. Thankfully, this is something that Covid has left untouched.

On the Past

We were fortunate to have the bookstore when ​Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows was released in July 2007. The publisher had imposed a very strict lay-down date policy. So, while we had had dozens of sealed boxes in stock for days, we could not release the books until midnight of July 21st. What did we do? We held a midnight release party! Kids (old and young) came dressed as their favorite Harry Potter characters. To play the role of Dumbledore, I dusted off my doctoral regalia. Cooper’s Cave Ale House concocted a Harry Potter-themed soda. There was an owl and Harry Potter trivia, contests and prizes. At midnight, LeRoy Akins, the mayor at the time, cut the seal on the first box of books and the kids immediately set to reading. There was an element of real magic that night, one that I like to think anticipated the energy that was to come in the city.

On the Future

One thing that I DO miss about New York City is the food. I would love to see an Indian restaurant in Glens Falls. I also love movies, and it would be great to have an art-house downtown.

My Glens Falls: David MacIntosh

If you’ve ever strolled by [farmacy] on Ridge Street, you’re sure to have seen Chef Dave’s smiling face waving at you from the window - even if it’s covered by a mask these days! :) We caught up with Chef this week to find out more about his journey to becoming a chef, his favorite way to spend a day off, and a few of his favorite childhood memories in the city.

Tell us about yourself!

My name is David MacIntosh, or 'Jefe'. You may know me as one of the many awesome chefs that wave to you from [farmacy] restobar's window! I'm a 2016 SUNY Adirondack graduate from the Culinary program, and I've been in or around Glens Falls almost all my life. I currently live in Gansevoort while I look for a house to buy in this beautiful city.

On Becoming a Chef

I graduated from South Glens Falls High School in 2011 and like many teenagers I had no clue what I wanted to be when I grew up. After a few failed odd job attempts here, I moved to Albany and ended up at a Greek mom and pop restaurant called Anton's. They hired me after a short interview and I began washing dishes as many in this industry do. A few short weeks later I started doing prep work in the mornings before my dish duty, and not long after I learned the in and outs of my new restaurant family’s business. The Anton's took me in like I was family and I still thank them every day for sparking that fire for cooking that still burns in me.

After the Greek restaurant changed owners, I decided to come back to Glens Falls and attend Culinary School under Chef Matt Bolton at SUNY Adirondack. As a fellow left-handed chef we instantly clicked with our sense of humor and love of the adrenaline that professional cooking brings. After graduating in 2016, I took a short stint down south in Tennessee and learned some awesome southern techniques. Though the south was beautiful, I was needed in the Glens Falls area to help open the restaurant [forged] in Hudson Falls with Chef AJ and Christina Richards. Once [forged] closed for renovations, I was relocated to [farmacy] where I get to wave at all who live and visit Glens Falls. The front window has brought many friendly people in - not only to eat, but to strike up conversations as well.

On Life in Glens Falls

I have two younger sisters which makes me a protective older brother. My whole family has always lived in the Glens Falls area until recently when my sisters went away to college. We love finding new restaurants to try when they come home.

I have been looking for a duplex to buy in the heart of Glens Falls to be closer to the town I have grown so fond of. It offers so many fitness and wellness activities as well as things to do in the outdoors and on the water. I love finding hidden hiking trails or kayak spots, or just walking around town and visiting the library or fun stores after some great coffee.

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

My ideal day in Glens Falls would include breakfast and coffee at Spektor with my girlfriend Cate (a bullet proof mocha and seeing Ray's smiling face makes my day), then walking to Rude Betty or Fountain Square Outfitters to see what interesting gifts we can find for each other. We would probably stop into Northeastern Fine Jewelry to look at watches and get my hopes up for a killer Christmas present!

I love checking out the fresh produce at the Farmers Market, so we would have to visit my farmer friends and see what new goodies they have for the restaurant.

After that we might take a trip to Crandall Park and sit by the water or walk around town and enjoy the views.

For date night in the nice weather, we would probably sit on the patio at [farmacy] (obviously) or get some drinks at Mean Max. If we were lucky we would get a reservation at Seasoned (and pay my good friends and former instructors Chef Matt Bolton and Chef Megan Diehl a visit) to witness first hand the culinarians of the future.

If we wanted a quick bite we might hit up Mikado for some killer sushi.

To get the blood pumping after that, I would probably go to Anytime Fitness for a quick workout or Lemon Tree Yoga at The Shirt Factory to realign myself.

On the Past

I remember fishing at Crandall Park as a kid after church and just enjoying being outside and chasing the ducks... until they started chasing me back. After a short fishing trip we would always get some fresh bread and pastries from Rock Hill Bakehouse and head home.

I always loved riding through downtown Glens Falls during the holidays and seeing the Christmas decorations light up the streets.

I never got a chance to try Bistro Tallulah when I was younger, but I respect how that restaurant paved the way for other chefs in the area.

…and On the Future

Glens Falls has really become a food hub over the past few years. There are new restaurants popping up all over town, with some truly talented chefs and line cooks to help pave the way. I'm excited to see who will be next to open up a restaurant in the area!

In the future I would like to see more of the continued community support between businesses and individuals. Seeing SUNY Culinary Center's facilities full of brand new young chefs eager to learn and grow would make this alumni ecstatic for the future. It might even make finding more great chefs easy for a restaurant run by yours truly, with a great patio and an aroma that would fill the town and bring people in!

In a city that has so much to offer, it's amazing to see everyone constantly growing and coming together for each other.

My Glens Falls: Nick and Danielle Margaglio

This week, we’re chatting with Danielle and Nick Margaglio! We connected with them on Instagram last summer and have loved following along as they update their city home (that they bought sight unseen, by the way!). Read on to find out what brought them to Glens Falls, how it compares to the four other states they’ve lived in, and what they love about this little city so far.

Tell us about yourselves!

Hi! We are Nick and Danielle Margaglio. We recently moved to Glens Falls after being on the road for a few years with the military. Nick is a pilot in the New York Air National Guard, he flies the LC-130 to Antarctica in support of the National Science Foundation. I (Danielle) am an avid horseback rider and I work and volunteer at stables in the area. I also have a small Etsy shop where I sell cards and stickers that I design. 

On Life In and Around Glens Falls

Nick grew up in the southern tier and I grew up in South Carolina. Somehow Nick made his way down south and we met at the University of South Carolina. After graduation, we moved to Mississippi, followed by Arkansas on a three year saga for pilot training.

We had never actually been to upstate NY besides one time in college when we took a spur of the moment trip from South Carolina to Lake Placid in Nick’s beat up single cab truck! Needless to say it was a long drive that was not well planned but we had a blast and fell in love with upstate. 

Fast forward a few years, we were wrapping up training in Arkansas and were poised to move to New York. We realized we needed a place to live - somewhere that values community, is close to the outdoors, and has older homes (it has been a goal of ours since we were in college to fix up an old house). With the help of Google maps, Zillow, and the Glens Falls Living blog, we found that Glens Falls fit the bill for us. So we ended up purchasing an older home on Sheridan Street sight unseen! All of our research could not have prepared us for how friendly and welcoming everyone was. We can’t tell you how many adult beverages were dropped off on our porch, which I guess is the contemporary “welcome to the neighborhood” gift. Glens Falls has truly exceeded our expectations. 

Our house is about 100 years old and is considered a shingle style home. Luckily for us, it was well preserved by the previous owners, so all the work we are doing is mainly cosmetic! It has been fun updating the house and we have even started an Instagram page, @myantiquehouse, to document all of the work we are doing. We love our street - it's close to Crandall Park and we have the best neighbors! Although we are new to Glens Falls, our favorite thing about it so far is the sense of community. We have lived in four other states and we haven't felt such a sense of community as we have here.

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

Our perfect Glens Falls day starts with breakfast at Kelly’s Roots. We usually grab a hot latte and a breakfast sandwich to fuel our day. Then we take our dog Nash for a long walk and throw the ball for him at Crandall Park. From there, we either go up to the Adirondacks to hike or tackle another project around the house. On a perfect day the project would go smoothly and we only go to Lowes once!

We know when it's time to wind down when we hear music playing. Our neighbor, Pete, hosts a neighborhood concert every Saturday. We all grab a beverage, usually from Common Roots, and listen to him and his band play. It's a great way for us all to get together and enjoy the moment. Afterwards we would enjoy dinner at Craft on 9, it's our favorite so far but we have so many more options to explore!

On the Future

We still have so many things to explore around Glens Falls, but if we could add one thing it would be a dog park. We enjoy taking Nash to Crandall Park but it would be cool to have a place where he could play with his doggy friends off leash!

A Trader Joes wouldn’t hurt either! Trader Joes, if you’re reading this - we know the perfect spot. 

My Glens Falls: Shane Donaldson

This week we’re catching up with Shane Donaldson, who we initially connected with on Instagram after seeing the cool wood merch he creates in his shop Rustic Overtones. He also works in IT at SUNY Adirondack, has an 1850 farmhouse he’s renovating with his family, and shares a lot of favorites and memories of life in Glens Falls! Catch our chat below…

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Shane Donaldson. I work as a full time IT staff member at SUNY Adirondack along with my partner, Holly Irion, who also works there as a mental health counselor. I am a Veteran of the Army National Guard and served a deployment in Iraq in 2003/2004. I also have side business as a lettering creative, providing handmade wood signage as well as laser engraving services. I consider myself a creative, with my hobbies and passions always flowing and evolving. I’m a visual and kinesthetic person, and love learning new ways to use my hands. I enjoy the opportunities that my creative pursuits have opened up for me, both within our community and through social media. This has allowed for friendships and networks that would not have been possible without the platforms that help us to share and connect. My environment has always been littered with art supplies, tools and inspiration. I wholeheartedly believe that it is our right and privilege to create on a daily basis, and I’m certain I will forever be learning and pursuing new creative outlets. My children, Sophia (17), Jack (16) and Jane (4) seem to have inherited that creative gene, as well. My daughter, Sophia, is a very accomplished artist and well on her way to success in whatever path she chooses. 

On Life In and Around Glens Falls

I grew up in Whitehall and moved to Queensbury around 2007. I will always love my hometown, but I have a great fondness for the Glens Falls community. Holly has a deep interest and appreciation for the history and architecture of Glens Falls, and this interest is now something that we share together. Since we met (and expanded our family) we have spent much of our free time enjoying all that the city and surrounding area has to offer. We have so many fond memories- attending Take-a-Bite, the lighting of the Christmas tree, Food Truck Corrals at the Shirt Factory, just to name a few. Holly and I love to socialize, and so many of our friends share the same love of downtown Glens Falls - it never takes much convincing to get friends together for dinner or drinks. Aside from the community and culture in the city, I feel very lucky to live in such a beautiful landscape. On any day, we are just a short drive from the beautiful lakes, rivers, streams and mountains. 

In 2016, one week before the birth of our youngest child, we purchased an old farmhouse on upper Luzerne Road in Queensbury. Built in 1850, the farmhouse served a largely utilitarian purpose, and renovations throughout the years have stripped our home of much of its original character. We are slowly restoring what we can (most recently we exposed and refinished the original wide-plank pine floors on the second level), and we cannot wait to breathe more life into it as time and funds allow.

Some Hometown Favorites

My favorite thing about Glens Falls is that there always seems to be something to do. On any given day you can wander downtown and happen upon a small festival or gathering, or swing into a variety of small businesses, and chances are you will run into somebody that you know. The longer I’ve been living in this community, the smaller it feels, and I love that.

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

A perfect Glens Falls day for me would start outdoors - perhaps some kayaking, hiking, or just walking around somewhere new. I would follow this up with wandering around Take-a-Bite with the family, including our miniature schnauzer, Frankie. The day wouldn’t be complete without grabbing a pitcher of margaritas at Rauls or some beer at Mean Max with friends.

On the Past

Most of my childhood memories of Glens Falls involve the Civic Center, including wrestling (both high school and watching professional wrestling), hockey games, graduations, concerts, and the annual Christmas Eve Road March. It’s nice to have a community space that can serve so many functions.

Some of my sweetest and most fun memories are more recent - our family is made up of several April birthdays and we celebrate annually with a big hibachi dinner at Mikado. While we had to celebrate at home this past April, we’ve gone several times in recent months to make up for it.

On the Future

As we adjust and recover as a community, I would love to see more music and live entertainment in smaller settings. To me, there is not much better than grabbing a craft beer and listening to a live performance.

My Glens Falls: Meaghan Golden

We’re excited to get to know another one of our neighbors this week - Meaghan Golden! She chats about what brought her to the area after years living in Manhattan, and all the fabulous things that keep her here (including her go to trails, restaurants, and antique shop!).

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Meaghan Golden, I am a Creative Director for my business; MGolden design+photo, a real estate investor and an avid antique and art collector. I am also mom to my 8-year old son, Teddy, and on Oct 8 of this year, Christopher Ermides and I were married!

Eight years ago I was living in Manhattan, working as a Creative Director for an advertising agency. I loved being in the city - that is, I loved it until I was 9 months pregnant, tired of my third floor walkup and riding the subway. My parents live in the Adirondacks, about 40 minutes north of Glens Falls. Escaping the rigors of city living, I spent frequent weekends at their country retreat. When my mom suggested I spend my 6 week maternity leave with them, it seemed like a great idea. I loved living upstate with my son and never went back to NYC.

As I had never before lived upstate, I didn’t have a network of friends or work connections here. However, I was fortunate to meet a wonderful group of first time moms at Crandall Library’s baby laptime program. I spent more time in downtown Glens Falls, attending events at the Y, meeting for playdates at Crandall Park and Hovey Pond, having coffee with my new friends at SpOT. With Teddy snuggled in his baby carrier, we took self-guided walks through the downtown residential areas. I was drawn to the excellent architecture and history of Hometown USA.

After 2 years in the mountains, I was ready to leave my parents’ home for one of my own, and Glens Falls seemed the perfect place to land. I bought an attractive little duplex right downtown and decided to get back to work with both my photography and design business as well as continuing my real estate ventures with investment properties. 

On Life in Glens Falls

Glens Falls hits that sweet space of being neither too big nor too small for family life. Christopher was living in Saratoga when we met and had no desire to move. But the more time he spent with Teddy and I in Glens Falls, the more he began to appreciate both its charm and convenience. As we both love old houses and support historic preservation, he was soon convinced that Glens Falls was the place to be. There is a solid sense of community here, and logistics make a good quality of life accessible. It was relatively easy to establish contacts and continue with my business. I was pleasantly surprised to discover the beautiful streets around Kensington, where my son eventually went to elementary school. The architecture is impressive and excellent home and landscape maintenance demonstrates neighborhood pride. 

I love that there are robust preservation efforts being led by local groups and that the town enthusiastically supports efforts to maintain Glens Falls’ history by preserving irreplaceable buildings rather than raze them to make way for the new and shiny. I am also encouraged to see all the revitalization happening downtown. Most of my rental properties are over 80 years old, with beautiful architectural details and the quality construction that is hard to find in newer construction. I have taken on some challenging projects, including the duplex Christopher, Teddy and I currently live in. Built in 1905; it needed some love. We are enjoying the work of restoring this old house to its former glory.

Some Glens Falls Favorites

I love that I can jump on my bike and be anywhere I need to go in town. Teddy and I spend hours traveling the Feeder Canal route in the summertime; it is such a great (and safe) path. On more adventurous days, we head to Lake George, exploring the beaches and woods. In the winter we get our free rental cross country skis, thanks to Emily at the Youth Cross Country Ski Club program, and hit the trails in Cole’s Woods. I appreciate the accessibility of the outdoors right in our back yard. I also love all the local events that happen through the year: LARAC Arts Festival, the Adirondack Balloon Festival, Boo To You, Taste of the North Country and Festival of Trees. I am also very thankful for the excellent Crandall Library. I spent countless hours there as a new mom and even during COVID they have been an amazing resource for keeping our whole family well read! 

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

My perfect Glens Falls day would be waking up early, hitting the bike trail for a ride, and ending up at Spektor for a perfect latte and smash-up. Then I would head over to see my friends Rob and Arty at 200 Glen Antiques where Teddy and I search (and always find) treasures. We try to make it to any local events happening, especially if they are kid-oriented, like the art programs at the Hyde and LARAC and shows at Wood Theater. Weekend plans always include working on the properties, work that earns Christopher and I a date night out to visit Rebecca at Morgan + Co., our favorite spot for drinks on the patio and a fabulous dinner. We might stop in and see our friends Jill and Dave at Mean Max for a local craft beer. There are so many wonderful options for a night out in Glens Falls, all just right out our front door!

Glens Falls memories

I have lived in Glens Falls officially for 6 years. Those 6 years of great memories encompass Teddy and the group of friends from the library who have become like family. Our good friends Katie and Loren Sullivan host many annual events (pre-COVID of course) including a 4th of July party before heading to Crandall Park for fireworks and music. It has been so much fun to watch our group grow; new additions of babies and friends, including many transplants who have moved here for all the same reasons that make us love it. My heartfelt wish is to see Glens Falls develop and grow, yet maintain its charm and simple living. It is a wonderful little gem of a town and I am happy to call it home!

My Glens Falls: Danielle Grasmeder

We’re chatting with Danielle Grasmeder this week! She’s sharing the reasons she returned to Glens Falls after graduating from college, her favorite holiday memories in the city, her pup Stella’s go-to stops at the Glens Falls Farmers Market, and lots more!

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Danielle Grasmeder and I have lived in the Glens Falls/Queensbury region since I was 5 years old! I turned 25 on October 1st (so that means a solid 20 years here!) and currently work for Morgan Stanley in Glens Falls as a Registered Associate. You may know my parents, Kathy and Dan Grasmeder, as they work for Morgan Stanley in Glens Falls as well.

I am a proud member of the Glens Falls Rotary Club and love to spend my time volunteering with people who value “Service above Self” as much as I do. I have an 8 month old German Shepherd, Stella, who loves to go to the Farmer’s Market with me every Saturday in the pavilion and get her fill of hot dogs from Pa’s Pistols, treats from Battenkill Creamery, and (her favorite!) weekly pumpkin “pup cups” from Buddy’s Barkery!

On Life in Glens Falls

Glens Falls is where I grew up. I honestly always pictured myself coming back here post-graduation, settling down and contributing to my local community in every way that I could. It seemed like the logical next step after college. Graduate, then come back to the place that shaped me into the person I am. I feel that I can return the favor and help to improve and preserve the amazing community that influenced me!

My family has lived here for 20 years (my little sister Gabrielle was in a baby carrier when we moved here!) and I met my boyfriend of 8 and a half years, Mike Valente, at a Queensbury Middle School Dance! He has also lived in the Glens Falls Region his whole life and agrees that staying in the Glens Falls area is just what we were supposed to do! Mike got a job working for Lehigh Hanson Cement in Glens Falls and it felt like everything fell into place for us.

There are so many things that keep me here: my family, my friends, my job, and the community. But one of the best things about our community is the changing of seasons! I am telling you, it is just not the same other places! I went to SUNY Oswego to obtain my bachelors degree in Marketing and trust me, the trees are nothing like what they are here. Also, just drive through the community and look around! We are in the most idyllic spot, surrounded by mountains! Have you been driving and just taken a moment to look at the trees as you go down Glen Street or Warren Street? The colors of the trees are incredible. I so thoroughly enjoy my drive to work, especially right now, because of the beautiful fall colors! People literally drive to our community to come see the beauty of Autumn and I think we are so incredibly blessed to be living in a place where the seasons change like they do here!

Mike and I bought our first house in April of this year. It is a beautiful home in Hartford approximately 20 minutes from downtown GF, so I have about a 20 minute commute to work. We have 12 acres of land and it is a dream come true. I’m still trying to convince Mike to let me bring my horse home, but in the mean time our dog Stella loves to romp around our fields and stretch her legs! We love that Glens Falls is so close! You literally have the best of both worlds where we are. The hustle and bustle of a small city and the wide expanse of farm country just 10-15 minutes away. Can’t get much better than that in my opinion.

Some Glens Falls Favorites

My favorite thing about Glens Falls is the fact that there are so many different shops, businesses, and other things going on that you really can spend a whole day here and still not see or do everything. I wish more people knew the rich history of some of the older buildings in Glens Falls. For example, the building I currently work in used to be a carriage house! It housed livery horses and carriages and still bears some remnants of that time to this day! There are so many beautiful buildings with incredible pasts and it’s amazing that we can hear about and experience them today.

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

A perfect day in Glens Falls would start with breakfast at SPoT or Spektor Coffee. I love SPoT’s chai lattes and they make this wonderful white chocolate blueberry latte in the summer that is heavenly over ice! For breakfast there I will usually get the breakfast burrito and a white chocolate pumpkin cookie. From Spektor I am a huge fan of their land and sea eggs benedict. Their smashed potatoes are literally to die for!

My sister, mom and whoever else I have with me will usually come with Stella and I on our weekly trip to the Farmer’s Market every Saturday morning. Our favorite stops include The Food Florist, Battenkill Creamery (where they always have treats waiting for Stella), The Argyle Cheese Company, Pa’s Pistols (where there are always hot dogs cut up and waiting for Stella), Lake George Distilling Company and (Stella’s favorite stop) Buddy’s Barkery for her weekly Pumpkin Flavored Pup Cups!

Lunch would probably be had at Rachel’s Spice Cafe (their Snapdragon Panini is literally the best!) and then we would let Stella romp around in City Park and maybe visit The Lake George Olive Oil Company for gelato and olive oil (and to visit my little sister while she is working there!). Then we would hit Laura’s Vintage for some shopping (they have such cute clothes!) and Minky Mink!

For happy hour, we would be sitting outside at Farmacy and ordering some sort of amazing cocktail that they have. In my opinion if you want incredible drinks made by a master bartender there is no other place to go besides Farmacy.

Dinner is at Mikado, no question. I think they have the best sushi in the Capital Region, honestly. They know my family and I as we are regulars and we go for sushi every Friday! We usually start with a dumpling soup in miso broth and our favorite sushi roll is Larry the Lobster. The trip would not be complete without a Pretty Princess drink for me either! It is the best!! And if you don’t like sushi I recommend their shrimp tempura udon (it’s a noodle soup with shrimp tempura you can add in).

For date night, Mike and I have frequented Raul’s (fish tacos and margaritas!!), Mi Rancho (margaritas and Texas fajitas!!), Farmacy, and of course Mikado! We would really like to try Radici but have not been able to get a reservation to get in! Speaks volumes about how amazing the food is when you can’t get a reservation! We hope to try it soon!

On the Past

My favorite memories of Glens Falls are during Christmas time. I remember when I was a little girl and they had a horse drawn carriage giving rides up and down beautifully decorated and snow covered Glen Street. As a horse crazy little girl it stuck in my mind how amazing it was to see this beautifully decorated carriage with two big black percherons and wreaths wrapped around their necks trotting proudly up and down the streets of my little hometown. That was a wonderful night with my family. We had just gotten our Christmas tree and were in town grabbing hot chocolate and cookies (I think my parents totally knew what was going on and wanted to surprise me!). It is one of my favorite memories.

Another of my favorite memories is working with the WAIT House for the Morgan Stanley Christmas Initiative. Two years ago we helped a family that was really in need (child and mom needed really basic things like dishes, hairbrushes, socks, boots, coat, snow pants, etc.) and they were so much fun to shop for. When we dropped everything off at their house, Mom cried and hugged us and told us how thankful she was that we had given her and her son such a beautiful Christmas. We had also bought her and her son Christmas dinner and she was so thankful as she had thought that would not be an option for them that year. It was so much fun to bring them a Christmas (with the help and generosity of my amazing co-workers) that they will remember forever while making sure all of their needs were met!

On the Future

I think the next thing that should come to Glens Falls are some tech companies! We have the makings of a bustling little metropolis and one of the few things we are missing are tech companies to really round out Glens Falls’ “ resume”. We have financial firms, law offices, restaurants, the paper plant, cement plant, the marketing firms, and I think all that’s missing is those businesses!

I would also love to see some dog themed stores come in to town. I think those would be a huge hit as everyone always loves to walk around town with their dogs!

I am so glad to live in Glens Falls and feel blessed to have such a strong community behind me. I am so proud of where I live and can’t wait to see what happens as we continue to progress!