First Look: Alchemy Bagel Cafe

Update: As of August 1, 2020, Alchemy has closed their Cafe, but they continue to offer their amazing goods at local markets and via special order - keep up to date on their offerings here!

Alchemy Bagel Cafe popped onto the scene at the Glens Falls Farmer’s Market this summer and almost immediately became a favorite part of our Saturday morning routine. Walk the dogs - head to the market - fill our bag with fresh fruits and veggies - grab bagels, a baguette, and a blueberry muffin from Alchemy - head home and devour the aforementioned baked goods on the back porch. We are so excited that they are now up and running in their new space at The Shirt Factory so that we can grab their goodies pretty much any other day of the week, too!

It’s been fun getting to know owners Meg and Alex at the Market this summer and seeing their passion for what they do. We loved hearing the story about Meg receiving a cake decorating kit for her 11th birthday, whipping up a cake, and her grandfather being so impressed that he encouraged her go to college for baking. “Only the best,” as she remembers him saying, “Go to the CIA.” And go to the CIA she did - the Culinary Institute of America - where she met Alex in what she describes as a “love at first sight” scenario, graduated with a Baking and Pastry Degree, and the rest is history.

Meanwhile, Alex, who grew up in Queensbury, started his baking career at the age of 16 working summers in Nantucket at the widely known Something Natural Bakery. He worked his way up over five summer seasons, gained knowledge in the operation of a high volume bakery, and while he studied briefly at the Culinary Institute of America (and met Meg!), he ultimately found the best fit with the Sustainable Agriculture and Production Program at Green Mountain College, where he was able to combine his two loves - farming and cooking.

While they spent the last few years working on Nantucket, they came back to the Glens Falls area to be closer to family as their son gets ready to start preschool. “We knew from our connections to the area that Glens Falls was turning the corner for the better and new businesses were moving into the city, along with more young people,” they said. “This gave us the confidence that Glens Falls would be the right place for us to start up; as it was, in our minds, a way to break into a growing culinary scene. This, in combination with the access to a commercial kitchen [at The Shirt Factory], which was generously outfitted to our needs by Eric Unkauf, made it possible for us to get off the ground.”

And if you’re curious, like us, about how the name came to be - Meg noted that it’s because Alchemy “is the predecessor of modern chemistry, which is a large part of pastry and baking. Managing the interactions of ingredients, elements, and specific technique is essential to great baking, and is the premise of Alchemy.” Perfect choice!

So, the Cafe! The space is perfect for a morning pick-me-up, light and bright with a big wall of windows on the far wall, and a gorgeous counter that Alex built himself.

And of course, the food! They’ve got a plentiful variety of the most delicious bagels, but if we had to pick a favorite, it’d be the Parmesan. We loved it even more as a bookend to their traditional breakfast sandwich, served alongside a hot coffee at the cafe. Their blueberry muffins were a favorite of ours all summer (made with farm fresh berries from Hand Melon Farm in Greenwich), and of course we could not leave without a baguette (a hot commodity in our house, since Tom has been known to steal large portions of it when I’m not looking!). And don’t leave without grabbing a few of their amazing macarons - so many great flavors like carrot cake (our favorite!), salted caramel, pumpkin, espresso… we could go on! We also couldn’t help but notice the cupcakes that were featured on their Instagram the other day - chocolate cupcakes with peanut butter icing and crushed butterfingers on top. It just doesn’t get much better than that!

Have you been over to the Cafe yet? They’re open Wednesday - Sunday in Suite 111 of the Shirt Factory. See you there - but save us a couple of Parmesan bagels! ;)

Owners Meg and Alex at Alchemy Bagel Cafe

P.S. See more of our First Look series with local restaurants here.

The Weekender: October 11-13

Hope you’ve had a great week! The forecast this weekend looks perfect, and we’re thinking about heading out for a hike to enjoy the foliage, and rewarding ourselves with some apple pie. How about you? Here’s what else looks good to us this weekend:

Have a great weekend!
Bri + Tom

P.S. If you’re looking to head out apple picking this weekend, here are five local orchards you might want to try!

Back in the Day: Talkies at The Strand

Nearly 3,000 people lined up for three showings of the first talking motion picture in Hudson Falls at “The New Strand Theatre” on Nov. 8, 1929.

“They stood in the drizzle of rain to see the first night’s run and add their acclaim to the success of the opening,” The Post-Star reported.

That would mean standing room only at each of the three showings, scheduled for 6:00, 8:00 and 10:00, but running behind because of the crowds, at the 900-seat theater.

The rabbit’s foot that theater owner J.A. Fitzgerald wore on a silk chain for the opening appeared to be doing its job at bringing good fortune.

The rabbit’s foot was a gift from a delegation of residents of Pittsfield, Mass., Fitzgerald’s native city, who attended the opening.

The main attraction of the double feature was “Sweetie,” an “all-talking, all-singing, all-dancing” picture featuring Nancy Carroll, “Paramount’s red-haired star” in the title role.

A high point in the “dialogue extravaganza” was a 24-person dance number with the trend-setting new dance move “Prep Step.”

“The Diplomats,” a “gripping human drama” featuring Bobby Clark, Paul McCullough and Marguerite Churchill, was the other film.

The New Strand was the same building as the old Strand.

The difference was the newly completed renovations and improvements inside, including a new state-of-the-art sound system for showing talking pictures.

“In the words of G.E. Locke, supervisor of the Western Electric acoustic department, who was personally in Hudson Falls to see the first run, the equipment of the New Stand is the latest and best that is offered today in the talkie world.”

Hudson Falls Chamber of Commerce was proud to sponsor the opening run, in exchange for public parking rights.

Hudson Falls merchants held a two-day gala opening sale and purchased four pages of congratulatory advertising in The Post-Star.

Advertisements included the common line, “We Greet The New Strand Theater With Its New Sound Pictures.”

Dozens of telegrams came in, and 20 Hudson Falls businesses and organizations sent congratulatory floral bouquets to the theater.

Photo courtesy of The Strand Theatre

It was a high point in the career of J.A. Fitzgerald, who seldom used his first name John, a manager at various times of five area theaters and who also introduced talking pictures at the Park Theater in Glens Falls.

Fitzgerald’s early jobs included ranch hand in Colorado, assistant lockmaster at the barge canal locks in Fort Edward and as a partner in a cigar store.

He was a member of the American Federation of Musicians union and the Glens Falls Band, and was drum major and musical director for the Hudson Falls American Legion Drum and Bugle Corps.

He was a military musician, serving during the Mexican border conflict as assistant band leader of the Third United States Artillery Band and during World War I as sergeant of musicians serving with the 105th Infantry Band.

Fitzgerald was active with the Hudson Falls/Kingsbury American Legion post, serving in various years as commander, chairman of the annual poppy drive, and Washington County service officer.

He was active in Hudson Falls Knights of Columbus, serving as Grand Knight.

Fitzgerald was elected Hudson Falls mayor by a nearly 2-to-1 margin in 1933, running on the Progressive ticket.

He served six years as mayor, and was then appointed the first superintendent of Hudson Falls sewage treatment plant.

Prior to entering the theater business in 1919, Fitzgerald had been an executive with the Hudson River Water Power Company and the Glens Falls Gas and Electric Light Company.

Fitzgerald was hired in October 1919 to manage the Empire Theatre on South Street in Glens Falls, taking over from interim manager Dewitt Mott, manager since the death of previous manager Joe Miller.

About two years later, Fitzgerald moved to Mechanicville to manage a theater there, and in January 1923 to Hudson Falls to manage the newly constructed Strand, which cost about $100,000 to build and equip – the equivalent of about $1.5 million in 2019 dollars.

Photo courtesy of The Strand Theatre

While the theater was under renovation in 1929, Fitzgerald purchased it from the investment group he worked for.

The Post-Star called it “one of the most important real estate transactions recorded in Hudson Falls in some time.”

In 1932, Fitzgerald was vice president and general manager of Rialto Operating Co., an investment group that purchased, renovated and re-opened the Rialto and Park Theaters in Glens Falls, both of which had been closed.

Renovation of the Park included wiring it and installing equipment to show talking pictures.

For the grand reopening of the Rialto on Sept. 10, 1932, Fitzgerald brought over the Hudson Falls Drum and Bugle Corps, which performed in front of the theater on Warren Street before the ceremony, and performed one selection on stage inside the theater to open the ceremony.

In August 1935, Fitzgerald sold the Strand to Schine’s Theaters, which operated about 70 theaters in New York and Ohio.

Fitzgerald was 83 when he died on Jan. 25, 1963 in Sarasota, Fla., where he was spending the winter.

________

Sources: The Post-Star, Aug. 22, 1916; Oct. 22, 1919; Jan. 17, 1923; May 16, 29, Oct. 4, 9, Nov. 8, 9, 1929; Aug. 16, Sept. 10, 1932; May 22, 1933; Aug. 29, Sept. 12, 1935; Jan. 9, 1940; Jan. 26, 1963.

Maury Thompson was a reporter for The Post-Star for 21 years before he retired in 2017. He now is a freelance writer and documentary film producer specializing in regional history. Thompson is collaborating with Snarky Aardvark Films to produce a documentary about Charles Evans Hughes and the Adirondacks, which is expected to release in 2020. See the trailer here.

My Glens Falls: Michael DuBray

This week we’re chatting with Michael DuBray! A popular local radio host and familiar voice to many, we’re sure you’ve also seen him at events downtown and all around the region. Find out a bit more about him including what brought him to Glens Falls, what he loves most about his career in radio, and the movie that he’s reminded of most when strolling downtown (so true!).

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Michael DuBray, I'm the midday host on Regional Radio's station 98.5 WCKM.  I am also an account representative and the guy at the studios that everyone calls when there is a computer or satellite issue, so when I'm not on the air I'm always occupied with station business of some sort.  I am also the owner of DeeJay DuBray. You may have seen me at a trivia night, a downtown Glens Falls event, fundraiser or wedding at one time or another. Outside of work, I have been involved with many organizations. I was Exalted Ruler of the Glens Falls Elks Lodge for 3 terms, I'm an ambassador for the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce, I was a celebrity dancer for Adirondack Dancing with the Stars to benefit CWI, I have been the chairman of the Glens Falls Collaborative's Wingfest the past few years and I am currently embracing my new appointment as president of the Glens Falls Kiwanis Club.  

A few of the things I love about being a radio personality all come down to the same result: making a difference. I love watching a business grow due to a great commercial and schedule. Playing a certain song brings back memories and can really change someone's day. My favorite thing is helping people. Last week I learned about two cheerleaders from Queensbury that were trying to raise money for a very important trip. I was able to help by getting the info on the air for them. That's a pretty powerful ability.

On Life in Glens Falls

I grew up in Cropseyville, New York. My family is scattered from the Troy area to Glens Falls. When I was a young child, my parents drove me to WGY live broadcasts where Harry Downey and Don Weeks would almost always put me on the air. In middle school, I made friends with Lee Warner from WGFM. He would put me on the air very frequently and as you probably guessed, I had the dream of being a radio personality growing in my heart. I moved in with my father in the Saratoga area after graduation and enrolled at ACC for Radio and TV Broadcasting. Within a year, I was the overnight host on WWSC and shortly after became the Traffic and Office Manager with a midday shift. That's when I moved to Glens Falls.  

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

I love summer Saturdays in Glens Falls. My favorite thing to do is start out at the Farmer's Market, where we grab some fresh chocolate milk and some vegetables. We then cross the street and have breakfast at Peter's Diner. I've been going there for 25 years. After that, if there is an event in downtown Glens Falls we usually go to the event, many times because I'm part of the event.

A Glens Falls Favorite

My favorite thing about Glens Falls is the hometown feeling. Many times near the holidays, I'll be walking in the snow downtown, wearing my long jacket and carrying my briefcase. Ten to fifteen people will walk by and say, "Hi Mike, Happy Holidays!". It almost makes me feel like I'm George Bailey in "It's a Wonderful Life". That is why I love it here. There is no better hometown feeling than that.

On the Past

I have many fond memories from my early days of living here. Most of them are the friendships that started way back then and lasted my entire life until now. College friends that I still talk to, dear friends that are gone such as Bruce Matthews and Vince Desantis, plus the hundreds of friends that can't all be mentioned. Business wise, I miss E. Gillis, The Ground Round and I think we all will miss Sandy's.

On the Future

As downtown Glens Falls continues to grow, I would like to see more people get involved in the organizations and events. We have many great non-profits and service organizations in our area that need volunteers and fresh ideas. Although I love seeing the same dedicated familiar faces, others are missing out on the satisfaction of the difference they could make.

Thanks, Michael!

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

The Weekender: October 4-6

Hi there and happy weekend! The apples are picked, the mums and pumpkins are planted, and we’re thinking it might even be time for the first fire of the season this weekend. Fall is in the air for sure, and we’re ready to soak it in this weekend. What are you up to? Here are a few things that caught our eye:

Hope you have a great weekend!
Bri + Tom

P.S. Glens Falls Living launched six months ago this week (time flies!), so we’d love to know - how are we doing? What do you love? What would you like to see more of? Have any ideas you’d like to share? If you have a minute, we’d love it if you would share your feedback by taking our survey here. Thank you so much for your support, enthusiasm, and for sharing our love of this beautiful city and region.

Dinner for the Win

Late 19th-century baseball booster George Pardo could be a sore loser. Pardo, owner of the American House Hotel at the northwest corner of South and Glen Streets in downtown Glens Falls, sponsored the local amateur baseball team, The Pardos, from 1875 to 1883.

The American House c. 1875. Photo courtesy of The Chapman Museum.

When the team was playing on the road, Pardo would sit on the hotel porch, overlooking South Street, and wait for the players to return to Glens Falls.

“Late at night, when we would return from Corinth, Lake George or some adjacent place, the old man (Pardo) would be up on the front porch to know what success we had met with,” Addison B. Colvin, the team’s manager, recalled decades later. “If the team lost, Pardo would swear and sic his dog on the players,” Colvin said. “If we won, as we frequently did, a fine dinner was served to us.”

More than a century after Pardo’s death in 1898, the historic red brick building where Pardo operated the American House is getting a face lift.

Developer Chris Patten is renovating the building for a mixed-use, new urbanist complex with Craft on 9 restaurant and other commercial tenants on the ground floor. Craft on 9 is relocating from Moreau. The upper floors will be renovated for about 20 apartments.

The existing red brick building replaced a previous hotel structure that burned in 1879. Pardo, who operated the hotel for 38 years, was among a string of operators over the decades of the hotel known at different times as the American House, Hotel Ruliff and Plaza Hotel.

The re-built American House c. 1880. Photo courtesy of The Chapman Museum.

In 1895, rooms with steam heat rented for $2 a night – the equivalent of about $61 in current dollars.

Daniel Robertson, a former pitcher for the Pardos, told a similar version of Colvin’s story about Pardo and baseball in a speech to the Glens Falls Rotary Club on Sept. 27, 1923. “Occasionally we would have a game and Uncle George would ask us how it came out, and if we told him, ‘We licked them today,’ he would say, ‘That is right. Come in and get supper,’” Robertson said. “But sometimes when we got the worst of it he would say, ‘Get out of here. I won’t have any damned dirty ball players hanging around my hotel.’”

Other players on the team were Dudley Ferguson, James McGrievey, Ed Reed, later a Glens Falls mayor, George Aiken, Will Wing, Will Capron, later a Glens Falls assistant fire chief, and H.A. Hurtubis.

Pardo also enjoyed fishing. In 1897, Pardo and his nephew brought back to the hotel about twenty “good-sized” pickerel from a fishing trip at Katskill Bay on Lake George. “The entire catch was exhibited in the hotel office during the evening and attracted the curiosity of visitors,” The Morning Star reported.

In 1896, Pardo sent back to the hotel 12 black bass, the largest of which weighed five-and-one-half pounds, that he caught on the east side of Lake George. In 1889, Pardo offered sage culinary advice to a Morning Star reporter. “Broil a black bass, and I would rather have it than a salmon prepared in the same manner, but the bass is not so good boiled.”

Pardo died of a heart condition on March 17, 1898 in his room at the hotel. The Morning Star said of him: “Mr. Pardo had long been an honored and prominent citizen of Glens Falls. He was a man of rugged and sterling integrity, positive of his likes and dislikes, but beneath a stern exterior he carried a warm and charitable heart.”

Pardo, the oldest of eight brothers, was born in Burlington, VT on Feb. 9, 1819. As a boy, he moved to Whitehall to learn the bakery trade from his uncle. He then worked as a baker in Troy for several years before returning to Whitehall, where he worked as a general agent for the packet lines until he entered the hotel business.

Sources: Letter from Addison B. Colvin to Roy Akins, Aug. 5, 1937; The Morning Star, Oct. 30, 1896; Jan. 18, 1897; May 28, 1889; March 18, 1898; The Post-Star, April 12, 1922; Sept. 29, 1923; Nov. 19, 1926; Oct. 1, 1964; The Lake George Mirror, June 5, 1895.

Maury Thompson was a reporter for The Post-Star for 21 years before he retired in 2017. He now is a freelance writer and documentary film producer specializing in regional history. Join Maury on April 10th 2019, 7pm, at the Crandall Public Library Folklife Center Community Room for a preview of Snarky Aardvark’s film, Charles Evans Hughes and the Adirondacks, focusing on the Glens Falls/Sandy Hill segments. Maury, producer/co-director, will be providing an update on research and the status of the entire documentary, expected to be released in 2020. See the trailer here.

The Weekender: September 27-29

Happy weekend! We gave the geraniums one last hurrah this week, but we’re thinking it’s finally time to pull them and pop some mums and pumpkins in their place - fall is in the air for sure (and we’re not complaining one bit!). This weekend is full of some more fall favorites, and so without further ado, here’s what’s on our radar…

Have a great weekend!
Bri + Tom

My Glens Falls: Carol Ann Conover

This week, we talked with Carol Ann Conover, who you might recognize from The Queensbury Hotel! We loved hearing how she found her way to Glens Falls having grown up in New Jersey, how she’s made her house a home, and how she’d spend her perfect day in our little city.

Tell us about yourself!

Hello! I'm Carol Ann Conover…you might know me as one of several Star-tender bartenders at The Queensbury Hotel (The #QCrew as we are otherwise known, mainly in the newly renovated Fenimore's Neighborhood Pub, but sometimes you can find me in Park 26 or keeping the party going at an event in one of our many banquet rooms). Working at The Q is just my super-hero secret undercover identity, though.... in my secret life, I'm a writer and social media & marketing specialist which I've been doing for over a decade. In fact, I've had to pleasure to work with many small businesses in town here over the years and it's helped me really forge some lasting friendships with some wonderful people.

On Life in Glens Falls

I was born and raised in New Jersey...South Jersey to be exact, and believe me, the distinction is important! There is a diagonal line from right around Trenton across to the shore near Toms River that separates North Jersey and South Jersey where, north of that line, you call it Taylor Ham and are a Giants fan (incredulous!), while in South Jersey, we call it by it's proper name 'Pork Roll' and are bleeding-green EAGLES FANS!

My hometown is all woods and beaches and farmland and quite a nice place to grow up. I used to shred these Upstate NY mountains on my hot pink on black Rossignol 165's with my high school Ski Team, so I had a connection to the area before I moved here 6 years ago.

From Jersey, I moved to Fort Lauderdale in the spring of 2001. One of the first friends I made in Florida (Hi Jimmy!) grew up in Clifton Park and his family had a camp in Brant Lake. When I was melting from the oppressive heat of summer, he invited me up to stay with his family so I started making visits once or twice a summer and fell in love with the area all over again as an adult. I found such peace in the mountains and by the lake. Once, I decided to make one of my trips in September for my birthday and I got a taste of Autumn that I hadn't had in 12 years and I realized how much I missed it. Then, that Christmas, I found out my sister was having another baby and it was so hard to get on a plane and leave the first one, there was no way I'd be able to bear leaving two of them, so I started to make plans to return to the northeast. I mentioned it to a Brant Lake friend (Hi Jess!) who lovingly offered me use of her cabin as a place to land to help navigate all the job and apartment finding stuff that can be so difficult to do from 1500 miles away, and it was life-changing. As with all the big decisions of my life, all I did was set my heart toward what I wanted to do and the path just suddenly cleared, the next swinging vine to grab presented itself, and so I had no doubt it's where I belonged. I couldn't be happier to have chosen Glens Falls as my home.

I just bought a house in Glens Falls, a sweet little two-story built in 1896 on the north side of town. The house had been updated a lot by the previous owner (who also happens to be one of my closest friends and former manager at The Queensbury) who put a lot of time and love into making improvements to the house, many of which were to my specifications once we worked out the deal to buy, so it was really very move-in ready as far as older homes go. I've spent a lot of time in the yard, tending and planting and I had a lovely summer with buckets of blackberries that grow on bushes right out back that everyone told me were roses! Next year, the perennials that I put in will really take off and I have the layout all finished for the straw-bale garden I'll be planting next spring. I made and hung a cute little red swing from the tree out back and my bird feeders are very popular with tons of birds, so I've made a lovely little nature retreat right in my own back yard!

The best thing about my neighborhood really has to be my neighbors on BOTH sides! I really lucked out. They've all been so wonderful and welcoming since I moved in. There have been barbecue invites and afternoons by the pool, dog-sitting and lots of nights chatting on one of our porches with cocktails...oh...and we are all always cooking and baking for each other, and as a true foodie, there couldn't be anything better!

One of the first things I bought for my new home was a salvaged farmhouse plank that reads "It's so good to be home" and it is so very true. I feel that every day living here.

Some Glens Falls Favorites

During my apartment hunt, I looked at a lot of places all the way from Brant Lake down to Ballston Spa to find the place that felt most like home to me. I was lucky to find a beautiful 2 bedroom apartment in a quiet little house just a few blocks from Downtown. When I first made my way down Route 9 onto Glen Street, I noticed the big, beautiful Crandall Library...I'm a super book-nerd so that really grabbed me..then a few doors down, what's this? A THEATER? Love! Oh, look, there's the bank I just opened my accounts with....and all these restaurants and shops! I fell in love with it right away and everything just felt RIGHT....I have always sought out the village sort of lifestyle where everything is within a short walk and Glens Falls sure is a walkabout town. My first weekend living here was the LARAC Craft Festival, and after discovering the Farmer's Market in the pavillion, I felt like Glens Falls really rolled out the red carpet just for me. I was so in love with my new Upstate life and the affair continues 6 years later!

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

My ideal day in Glens Falls would be hitting the Farmer's Market early (which means I'd have a rare Saturday off!) and having a handmade crepe from my dear friends at Dickinson's Delights and saying hello to all my other market friends...I used to work the Farmer's Market circuit with Jon and Tamberlyn and I really love everything about Market life.

Then I'd make my way down to Spektor..my favorite spot for coffee and an occasional breakfast..the beans are roasted to perfection, the place is cozy, the pour-overs are prepared with great care and their chocolate croissants cannot be beat. I'd read and write for awhile and stroll down to Davidson's for a brew and a visit. Dbros was my first job when I moved to town and is really where I made most of my first connections. I had a wonderful experience there and am really thankful for the owners, coworkers and customers who have since become like family to me.

From there, I'd hit DTCT for a little snack to visit my friends who work there, probably breeze through the Bullpen too, since by then a mini-bar crawl would be the order of the day. A nap in my hammock would work it's way in there somewhere.

For night life, I tend to start at The Q (because I just can't stay away!) for a cocktail and some appetizers and move on to Farmacy.. my latest love for small plate dinners.

From there I'd let my ears guide me to some live music that suits my mood as the place to chill for the evening.

There really are just so many options and it's often the case that I'll bump into friends and the day can totally change direction...and I love that about living here! It's a great place to just float on the breeze and see where the day takes you.

On the Past

After living here two years, I almost left Glens Falls to move to Tennessee. Leaving here felt really bittersweet because I had only lived here for a short time and didn't feel like I had enough of it, like I hadn't done enough here yet, but my life was taking me in that direction and I had some connections down there so I was excited about the new opportunity. Then, when that plan abruptly fell through, amidst a lot of shock and heartache, I found myself here in Glens Falls, still, moving back into the apartment that I never left. It was then, in the midst of heartbreak and disappointment that the friends I had made in town really rallied around me...my landlord worked it out so I could stay in my same place, which was an enormous comfort and that's when many of my coworkers and customers crossed over into being something more... and it was then that I knew this place was very special and eventually, as my heart mended, I followed my life-plan to start my own writing business and keep my goals on track, and I've done it all in just a few short years...just, without the guy I thought I'd be with. It was really for the best and I feel thankful, really, that my life kept me here. The friendships and sense of community I've found here have made a tremendous impact on me as a person. I love it here. I love ME here. The town, the people, my job. It really is a wonderful life and I feel lucky to have landed here.

On the Future

A wave of my magic wand would bring my sister and my nephews up here to live. My oldest nephew, Robbie, spends a month every summer with me, which he's been doing for the last 3 years. I think lake-life and mountain living is such a profound and peaceful experience and I'm so happy to be able to share that kind of time with him and my sister and younger nephew when they come to visit. They all love the hotel and The Q is great about everything when family comes to visit...they feel very at home here already and I'd love to have them close enough to ride their bikes to my house and scoop them up for summer movies in the park or at the drive-in, seeing their school plays or concerts and games....and just all that day-to day stuff that I miss being so far away. Also, I'd love a little grocery or market within walking distance. I think it would really complete the wide variety of options this town has to offer.

I think Glens Falls is a great town...a little hidden gem nestled between the more-touristy Lake George and the pricier Saratoga Region. I feel like people who discover us are always really surprised at how beautifully the town is maintained with all our lovely hanging flowers and tended garden beds, and lit-up lamp posts in the winter months. It really is a wonderland in any season with so much to do..and it has a very Gilmore Girls-Stars Hollow type of feel since everybody does ALL the things. Every festival, benefit, craft fair, farmer's market, hockey game....whatever it is, you can be sure to run into friends and see a ton of familiar faces. It's really a unique and wonderful thing.

Check out more stories from our My Glens Falls series here.

Sweet Ride: '55 Chevy

We’re excited to kick off a new series here on GFL (and one that Tom is pretty excited about!). Sweet Ride will share the stories of the vintage automobiles that grace our hometown streets and beyond, and their cool owners, too. We’re thrilled to start off with Carl and Judy Luhrmann and their gorgeous ‘55 Chevy. Read on for the details on how they came to own it, hear about its claim to fame, and find out a few of their tips if you’re thinking about buying that classic.

Beautiful ride! We can’t wait to hear more about it, but let’s start with a little bit about you!

Judy and I met in 1978 at college in Ohio, married a few years later, and just celebrated our 38th wedding anniversary. Judy moved to Glens Falls where I was working as a Field Service engineer for Kamyr. Kamyr transferred us to the Portland OR area in 1986, where our two sons were born, and where we bought this Chevy. We came back to Glens Falls in 1989. I still work for the same company, now called ANDRITZ. Our offices are on Pruyn’s Island. Judy taught elementary school and Art for 35 years and is now retired. We still live in Glens Falls, in the same neighborhood we moved to in 1989.

THE SPECS

Year, make and model?  

1955 Chevy 210, Ivory over Navajo Tan paint colors, Body by Fisher interior and original one piece California factory bumpers.

Size engine? 

Straight 6, 235 cubic inches.

Automatic or stick? 

3 on the tree, manual transmission.

Gas mileage?

Not a clue! Google says 15-20 mpg?

How many years have you had it? 

30 years! Purchased in spring 1989.

Do you drive it year round? 

No, we store it from November to May.

THE HISTORY

How did you you come to own it? 

While living on the West Coast we constantly saw great looking vintage cars used as daily drivers. When we were being transferred back to NY in 1989, Judy said she was not leaving without a Chevy. In 1989 you could buy a 55-57 Chevy for as little as $2000 at a used car lot. She started searching for a 55-57 Chevy that we could bring back home. Judy found this one on consignment at the Memory Lane Motors classic car dealership in downtown Portland. Because it wasn't a Bel Air model but did have low mileage, we paid somewhere around $3000 for it. 

Do you know much about its history or previous owners?

We are the second owners, the car was purchased on August 25, 1955 (Carl’s Dad’s birthday). It was supposedly the “company car” for the wife of a lumber company and sawmill owner in Springfield, OR. Fast forward 34 years and she had gone into the hospital and asked her minister to look after it. After the woman went into a nursing home it was taken to Memory Motors to sell. So it’s a real cliché – literally owned by a little old lady who only drove it to church. Had only 55,000 miles on it when we bought it. Looked like the back seat had never been sat in. Still had the plastic wrapping from the factory around the trim on the bottom of the front seat. The only body damage was front bumper dents from her hitting her trash cans when she parked it in the garage.

In the mid 1990’s we took the Chevy down to Guptill’s Ice Cream for their annual summer car show.  This guy came over and started taking pictures of the Chevy and asking questions. He had noticed our custom plates “OREGON55” and was wondering what the car’s history was. Told him that we were the second owners and that the car was originally bought in Springfield, Oregon. He starts to tell us he thinks the car was the Chevy parked in front of the Delta Tau Chi frat house in the 1978 Animal House movie with John Belushi! The movie was shot at the University of Oregon in Eugene which is less than 4 miles away from Springfield. His logic is that our 210 is rare and how many Ivory over Navajo Tan 55 Chevys could have been in the Springfield/Eugene area in 1977 when the movie was shot?!  A few months later we get an email from this guy telling us that he runs a website that deals with cars from famous movies and that he has posted ours on his website under Animal House movie cars (acmewebpages.com). The site is now defunct but if it was on the internet it must be true?!

THE REPAIRS

How about the inevitable repairs and maintenance - do you tackle those on your own?

We do little projects, but we have great guys that do the mechanics. For 30 years we have used Duell’s Garage, in Fort Edward to work on it. Gregg Duell owns multiple vintage cars and trucks. He is semi-retired, but he and his son, Fred, are great mechanics, the best in the area for working on classic cars and reasonably priced. Our Chevy has yearly tune ups, a new exhaust system, but needs no major work. With no power steering and three on a tree, it’s a true tank with only 67,000 miles on it now. 

We also recommend Evia Motors in Glens Falls.  They work on vintage Volvos, Jeeps, European imports, and the two vintage DeLoreans in town.  They have worked on Judy’s old Volvos for years. Billy Anthis of Evia is currently restoring his two vintage ’65 Mustangs.

What's next for the '55? 

We had the Chevy repainted and the chrome redone for its 40th birthday in 1995, so it is time for a paint touch up. The original upholstery fabric is disintegrating after 64 years, so that’s the next big project.

THE RIDE

Where's your favorite local cruise? Long distance road trip? How far have you taken it? 

We stay local, driving up to Martha’s Ice Cream and Lake George and around town. It’s the perfect car for going to the Glen Drive-In Theatre, because the seats are so big and comfy. We’ve travelled to Manchester, VT and the Catskills in it. It’s been to the Glens Falls HS prom plus it’s been in a wedding or two……...

THE ADVICE

What advice would you give to someone who wants to take the leap and buy their dream ride?  

In our opinion, when buying a vintage vehicle research, research, then search! Be patient and get friends involved in your effort, network online, have a independent pre-purchase professional inspection done, get the vehicle with the lowest mileage possible and the most paper history. Show the undercarriage and engine compartment photos to all of the mechanics you know and try to drive it before you buy it. Don’t buy for investment. If you are not a mechanic, don’t buy a “Trailer Queen” that you only drive 50 miles a year and needs constant maintenance, and expensive parts. Buy it because you love it and want to drive it. Judy loves driving old cars. She owns this car, plus a 1978 International Harvester Scout, and her current daily driver, a 1988 Volvo 245 wagon. Our enjoyment is actually driving these great old vehicles!

Anything you wish someone had told you before buying your first classic? 

Make sure you have storage space. With winters in the North Country so challenging, the Chevy is professionally garaged November to May. But having 5 cars takes up a bunch of room. If your classic car is not garaged, make sure you invest in a good all weather car cover and use it. If it is a daily driver, wash the undercarriage every week in the winter. The magnesium chloride they use here for road salt will eat through almost any metal.

Thanks Carl and Judy - enjoy the ride!

Have a vintage car you’d like to see featured, or know someone who does? Shoot Tom an email at tom@glensfallsliving.com, or contact us here.

The Weekender: September 20-22

Happy weekend! But more importantly, Happy Balloon Festival Weekend! The sight of 100+ hot air balloons in the sky in the morning still makes me as giddy as an adult as it did when I was a kid, and we’re guessing you all probably feel the same way. And so that said, here’s what we’ll be up to this weekend…

Have a great weekend!
Bri + Tom

Back in the Day: Ballooning in Glens Falls

Passengers on the Saratoga and Whitehall Railroad gazed at what, at first, appeared to be “an immense serpent” in the sky.

Today, hot air balloon sightings are common around Warren and Washington counties, particularly during the annual Adirondack Balloon Festival, which opens Sept. 19 and runs through Sept 22.

But it was a novelty when Professor Charles Cevor launched his balloon “Monpelier” from the center of Glen’s Falls, a village spelled with an apostrophe at the time, at 4:35 p.m. Oct. 5, 1859.

“As the time approached for the ascension, crowds began to pour into the village and fill the tops of buildings,” the Glen’s Falls Republican later reported. “The balloon, with its intrepid master, rose majestically amid the shouts of the crowd and the music of the band – all wishing it good speed in its aerial thrust.”

A previous attempt to launch had been unsuccessful because there was an insufficient supply of gas, prompting ridicule from out-of-town newspapers.

This time, Cevor and his associates began filling the balloon with gas on Tuesday, and continued the inflation the day of the launch.

Cevor had taken his first balloon flight June 11, 1859, about four months earlier, at Pittsfield, Mass, with Edward Lamountain, and shortly thereafter purchased “Pride of America,” his first balloon, from Lamountain.

Today there would be a more rigorous training process before a new pilot could take flight.

Cevor, 160 years ago, had a splendid flight from Glens Falls through Washington County, eventually landing in a pasture of the L. Falkenburg farm, six miles east of Whitehall.

“Prof. Cevor describes his aerial voyage as delightful – the only unpleasant sensation experienced being that of numbness and drowsiness when at the greatest height,” the Republican reported. “The view was of the finest description -- hill and dale, mountain and valley, villages, lakes and rivers, being spread in nature’s panorama as far as the eye could reach in every direction.”

Unlike modern balloonists, Cevor did not have a chase crew to follow him and assist when he landed.

A startled farmer was the only witness to his descent.

“When near the earth and just prior to landing, a farmer with milk pail in hand suddenly discovered the aerial monster, and, dropping his pail, he gave vent to his overwrought feelings by a scream.”

Cevor hitched a ride with a teamster for himself and his balloon into Whitehall, where Cevor stayed the night.

The next morning he took the train to Fort Edward, and was back in Glens Falls in time for breakfast on Thursday.

That evening, Col. Alonzo Morgan presided over a community meeting at the Mansion House hotel, at which Cevor was honored for his “noble exhibition of skill, courage and science.”

Tilletson’s Brass Band performed, and there were “many witty speeches.”

Cevor was given a collection of $60, the equivalent of $1,854 in 2019 dollars.

Cevor continued to travel the northeast and southern states flying the “Montpelier,” until the balloon was destroyed in a rough landing at Savannah, Georgia on March 9, 1860, when Cevor traveled 40 miles in 13 minutes during a wind storm, according to balloonhistory.net.

The balloon was valued at $800 – the equivalent of about $27,400 in 2019 dollars.

During the Civil War, Cevor was a captain in the Confederate Army.

He designed the “Gazelle,” a southern military hot air balloon that was destroyed during the siege of Charleston in 1863.

———

Sources: Glen’s Falls Republican, Oct. 11, 1859; history.net; Waco Tribune Herald, Jan. 21, 2012; balloonhistory.net.

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The Adirondack Balloon Festival begins Sept. 19 with the opening launch at 5:15 p.m. at Crandall Park in Glens Falls, and a street party in downtown Glens Falls after the launch until 9:30 p.m.

Friday evening, Saturday morning, Saturday evening and Sunday morning launches are at Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport in Queensbury.

There is a “moon glow” tethered demonstration at 8 p.m. Saturday at the airport.

Closing launch is Sunday evening at Crandall Park.

Grab all the details here.

Maury Thompson was a reporter for The Post-Star for 21 years before he retired in 2017. He now is a freelance writer and documentary film producer specializing in regional history. Thompson is collaborating with Snarky Aardvark Films to produce a documentary about Charles Evans Hughes and the Adirondacks, which is expected to release in 2020. See the trailer here.

My Glens Falls: Rodney Allen Bentley

Tonight we’re catching up with Rodney Allen Bentley! You’re sure to have seen his artwork all around town, and we’re excited to share our chat with him, including a bit of his history and the catalyst for his amazing artistic journey. Read it all below!

Tell us about yourself!

A native of Glens Falls, I experienced a very successful corporate career for nearly 18 years. I had continual promotions culminating in 5 relocations to 5 major cities. I lost that long career and my last home during the Great Recession. During that turmoil, I suffered a fall at my residence, and Emergency Medical Technicians rushed me to a major hospital Neurological Trauma Unit to stabilize multiple bleeds from a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). I later awoke in the Intensive Care Unit and learned that the severe TBI was the catalyst which called for CAT scans that uncovered previously undiagnosed severe spinal cervical degeneration, which required emergency surgery. I returned to Glens Falls to recover in 2012 and without much idea of what the future would hold.

Fast forward to the present time, I have become an emerging and successful visual artist and my gallery openings are making a mark. My work is admired by  business owners, city leaders, hundreds of home owners in the region as well as children. My architectural artistic renditions were recently gifted to Saga, Japan by the Glens Falls Mayor Delegation visit to the city in 2018. 

I now reside at a magnificent property known as the Historical McEchron House, built in 1891. It is better known as the 5 star Morgan and Company Restaurant.  The property has a stunning canopied wrap around porch, exterior bar, dual stone dining patios, brilliant landscaping, evening lighting and the wonderful summer sounds of a New Orleans Jazz Ensemble. 

I also now serve on two separate of Board of Directors. Southern Adirondack Independent Festival and Steps for Stroke. Both not for profit agencies have different resources to provide and fill needs to those attempting to live independently. I happily provide many donations of my work for regional fundraising events in the area, including the Festival of Trees at the Queensbury Hotel.

ON LIFE IN GLENS FALLS

It was a Sunday in mid February when I was introduced to a new world at Glens Falls Hospital. I was a first child for my Mother. Her great faith and fortitude would allow my 5 younger siblings and I to be reared within the Adirondacks in the quaint town of Thurman NY. Winters seemed serene, silent, snowy and included lots of sledding and skating. Summer meant swimming on the shores of the Hudson River, exploring the forests, fishing and berry picking. Looking back, the living space with a family of eight was limited so we all contributed to daily chores.  

As I graduated SUNY Adirondack, JCPENNEY recruited me and I was provided a successful 18 year career. I liked experiencing new places, new cities, new friends and new homes long the way. Different cultures, ethnicities, cuisine and led to a bigger world calling me. Relocations allowed new homes in cities like Rochester, NYC, Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. I still follow the Steelers and the Penguins!

Returning to Glens Falls from Philadelphia occurred through the support of my lovely former fiancé Janet, my Mother and my siblings. My compassionate sister Michelle opened her home for me in South Glens Falls. Reading comprehension, speech therapy and aphasia were a few of the obstacles I faced related to the brain injury. A new life was about to begin and evolve in a way much greater than imagined, although I still experienced the darkness of upcoming corridors before the light. Local Neuropsychologist, Dr. Broege provided extensive and lengthy neurocognitive tests evaluating my abilities. I was very hurt, sad and even more confused to learn that I no longer could successfully navigate previous management job responsibilities. I had not yet understood that the creative portion of my brain, after the fall, was unlocked and was raring to go!

One of those dark corridors took me to a place where the spirit began to become present. I was in a controlled environment undergoing treatment and I was approached by a very big man in his forties. He sat down next me and lowered his head and folded his arms.  He was asking if I could draw something for him, a birthday card for his 5 year old grandson. I thought to shrug off the request as it made no sense to me. However, I agreed to make an attempt as I took notice of his emotions and feeling the sincerity of his voice. Paper and pencil were found for use. I sat a few moments looking at empty white space as the pencil began to effortlessly move itself. Not only had I created a wonderful birthday card which a five year old would be proud to have, but I had a nearby audience observing my work with wonder without me being aware. It was then that I knew my most effective way to speak to my new world would be through my hands. Although a long road, I was on my way.

Regardless of the weather, I would begin my early morning trek from South Glens Falls to coffee shops in Glens Falls. Spot Coffee became my home. I would begin creating artwork as the door opened at 7am and many times not leave until 10pm. If I was hungry, I would take advantage of the $1 day old muffins at the shop and I would even trade volunteer time for lunch at the local Soup Kitchen on Lawrence Street.

Spot is where, journey partner, Dr. Karen McShane discovered my passion. Dr. McShane, a volunteer at the Wood Theater and an enormous fan of the arts. Her support of arts goes beyond visual arts. She supports musicals, opera, symphony, film or stage. Her interest in an unknown artist who created artwork at Spot Coffee every day, hour by hour, seven days a week and year after year intrigued her. More local business owners began encouraging my creative process and even publications took interest such as the wonderful Chronicle and Post Star took notice. It would not be long until my work would become artwork hung within local businesses including Davidson Brothers Restaurant and Brewery, The Queensbury Hotel, Lower Adirondack Regional Arts Council, Adirondack Trust Co., Glen Street Associates, City Hall, Spot Coffee, Wood Theater, Samantha’s Cafe, Lake George Olive Oil Co., and more. 

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

I feel connected to water and I crave biking and find morning trips along the Feeder Canal to Haviland Cove, the canal locks and turbines in Hudson Falls and of course the Warren County Bike Trail to Lake George all inspirational. 

I am finding the more that I exercise in moderation, it provides more clarity in my mind and expands my creative process. City Park is beautiful and I truly appreciate the evening summer events. Seeing the morning Tai Chi class on the lush green lawn calms the mind. Evening sunsets are unique and I relish each one. Stepping away from my studio and drafting table lets me connect with the energetic evening soul of Glens Falls. Meeting new and old clients and friends, catching up with local business owners and servers or just feeling the vibrant social atmosphere including Downtown Social, Fenimore’s Pub and Davidson’s Brothers Brewery, just to name a few.

On the Past

Fond childhood memories include South Street and the taste of New Way Lunch “Dirt Dogs”.  Gurney Lane Community Pool and occasionally an evening at the Glen Drive-In on Route 9. Saturdays during summer I would receive five dollars to clean the Catholic Church or rake the lawn in Warrensburg. The five dollars I received were given to my mother to support upcoming school clothing shopping. My first official job came about when I was sixteen years old with the Thurman Highway Department. I mowed grass and “threw” rocks from the many dirt roads in Thurman.  I later would make money before graduating high school at Sitting Bull Ranch Resort and 1000 Acres as a dishwasher, prep cook, waiter and a recreational director.

On the Future

I have had many requests by local friends to write a memoir (which I have started). I have been approached by a few screenwriters that find my experiences  worthwhile and intriguing. I’ve been told to not be overly concerned about writing everyday as each day’s experiences become a new chapter for me to write.

I look forward to bringing an easel and creating new works once the new Farmer’s Market on South Street comes to fruition.  

By the way…

For those interested in my work, it can be found here.

Personalized Holiday gift art requests are already pouring in. Whether charcoal holiday theme home renditions, pet portraits, children portraits, family portraits, boats or whatever can be personalized thru an original piece of art and a wonderful gift. 

My recent “Adirondack Winterludes” gallery exhibition at Tannery Pond in North Creek was such a huge success that I have had requests to bring the exhibition to the Glens Falls Region. I am very happy to announce that Paula Traina from State Farm is welcoming “Rodney Allen Bentley’s newest Winter Collection” for an opening evening on Friday November 15th, 5pm to 8 pm at 736 Upper Glen Street, Suite 200A, Queensbury NY.

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

Road Trip: Small-Town Bookstores

Even as an adult, there’s something about back-to-school season that still makes us want to go shopping for a couple of fresh notebooks, a stack of new pencils and pens, and a good book. If you’ve got that same fall feeling, you’re in luck, because we’ve got a list of four sweet small town bookstores (and barns!) to peruse and believe you me, you’ll leave this road trip with a stack of books that’ll last you ’til spring (and a most wonderful experience to boot!).

Owl Pen Books | GREENWICH

We just discovered Owl Pen this year, and I can’t believe we didn’t know about it sooner because it’s right up our alley. Down a winding dirt road, you’ll find a complex of red barns tucked behind a historic white home. The barns are the bookstore. It doesn’t get more charming! Inside, you’ll find over 100,000 pre-owned books, and the co-owner Edie, who, upon a customer request for a specific book, pulled it from the shelves within 30 seconds. (She assured us it’s not always that fast!). You could easily spend the afternoon here, slowly making your way through the shelves. A new favorite for sure.

Battenkill Books | Cambridge

Battenkill Books is the kind of bookstore that I wish we had in downtown Glens Falls, but am also glad we don’t, since it gives us an excuse to cruise out to the lovely village of Cambridge. Here you’ll find the friendliest staff, the newest releases, and a most adorable room filled with books for the kiddos. It’s bright, airy, and the kind of place that makes you want to grab a seat by the window and start your book right away. A major bonus - Argyle Brewing Company’s tasting room is at the old train station right around the corner, and there are fantastic antique shops up and down the street. Do yourself a favor and pick up your next book here instead of online - you won’t regret it!

Wilson Homestead | HEBRON

Washington County roads are some of the prettiest in the area, and we enjoyed the most gorgeous ride past old farmhouses and red barns to get to the Wilson Homestead. Book barns are indeed a new favorite of ours, and this historic property is no exception. Inside, there’s a little bit of everything - books ranging from cooking to architecture and design, to local and regional history - our favorite! There’s also a great selection of antiques, so it’s pretty much guaranteed that we won’t get out of there without buying something. When you’re done, head over to Gardenworks for lunch at the Cheese + Cafe - a pretty perfect afternoon if you ask us!

Old Book Surfer | CAMBRIDGE

Overlooking Lake Lauderdale in Cambridge, The Old Book Surfer was unique in that there was a great selection of old books and vinyl records (for that record player I keep saying we need to buy!). We loved flipping through the bins and reminiscing about the tunes our parents listened to when we were kids, and we can’t wait to go back when we finally do get that turntable. You’re sure to walk away with an armful of treasures, and a heaping dose of nostalgia, too!

2021 Update: We weren’t able to reach anyone for an update on business hours, so we’d skip this one for now!

Happy travels, happy shopping, happy reading!

P.S. Check out our other Road Trip ideas here.

The Weekender: September 13-15

Hi! How was your week? We’ve been reaching for our jackets in the mornings, we’ve got the firewood stacked and ready, and we’re dreaming about some apple pie this weekend. All the best September things. Here’s what else is on our radar this weekend (hope yours is a great one!)…

Have the best weekend!
Bri + Tom

P.S. If you’re in the mood for a good book (and a beautiful drive!), check out four small town bookstores to visit here.

My Glens Falls: Andy Camp

This week we’re chatting with Andy Camp! If you’ve been to an Adirondack Thunder game, you’ve likely seen him - camera in hand! Read on to find out where he got his start as a designer (at a store we all knew and loved!), hear a few of his favorite fall activities, and find out the sweet lunch tradition he carries on with his son.

Tell us about yourself!

I’m Andy Camp, and I have lived and worked in and around Glens Falls my whole life. I met my wife Lisa in high school and we’ve been married for over 26 years. We have two children, Garrett and Delaney and a year-old black lab named Jett. I am the team photographer for the Adirondack Thunder, and work with a number of local businesses as a freelance designer for web and print. 

I began my career designing weekly flyers for the Joy Store and then moved on to the design team at Kamyr in 1992. In 1998 I built West Mountain’s first website, completed an update of the City of Glens Falls’ website with Jim Clark and Mayor Bob Regan, and then developed a site for the new hockey team. The web was an exciting new place to work and I grabbed every opportunity I could!

I enjoyed working with the hockey team so much that I’ve been involved with each hockey team to play in Glens Falls since 1999. I even spent a few seasons working with the River Rats in Albany while we waited for a new tenant at the Glens Falls Civic Center. These days you can find me taking pictures at each Thunder game. If you’re at a game – and you really should go if you’ve never been to one - stop and say hello and I’ll take your picture!

On Life in Glens Falls

I’ve been offered chances to move away from the Glens Falls, but something about this area keeps me and my family here. There is a comfort about the people and the places and just a feeling that being here is “just right.” It’s a hard feeling to explain if you haven’t lived here, but you know what I mean if you have.

Some Glens Falls Favorites

While all four seasons bring something special to look forward to, Fall brings our favorites. Hockey season and the Adirondack Balloon Festival are the events that we look forward to the most! We also love to walk around downtown Glens Falls and go the Bullpen, hit the Food Truck Corral at The Shirt Factory, stop at Rob and Deb’s or Martha’s Ice Cream (depending on who gets to pick), pick apples at Hicks Orchard and stock up on the best cider donuts in the area – but our favorite place to go is the Harvest for pizza and French fries!

I’ve seen an amazing transformation of Glens Falls over the years and I am very excited to see it continue. There are more places for families to go, and creative events are bringing more people into the City than ever before. This year we went to events like Take-a-Bite, performances at the Wood Theater (especially Dancing with the Adirondack Stars show that my wife Lisa was in!), Glens Falls Dragons baseball and Thunder Hockey games. We saw so many people enjoying them with us, it was awesome! Glens Falls used to be called “The City on the Rise” and I strongly believe that this is true once again.

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

The perfect day would start with a bacon, egg and cheese sandwich on a blueberry bagel at Lox of Bagels and Moor in Queensbury. They make your order right in front of you, so you know it’s fresh!  A round of golf would be next, followed by a visit to New Way Lunch and then off to work at a Hockey Game. I am excited to go to each game as Thunder fans are second to none! Make no mistake that while they are the most avid fans in the league, they are the friendliest and create a family atmosphere that you won’t find at any other arena. After the game, we like to celebrate a win at the Bullpen where we are likely to see players or fans there to wrap-up a great night! 

On the Past

Growing up, my grandfather would take me golfing whenever he could. No matter where we played, we always finished up having lunch at “Dirty John’s” (a.k.a. New Way Lunch). I loved going there with him and looked forward to the loaded hot dogs and a 10 ounce Pepsi. I miss my grandfather and our golf and lunch outings and this is a memory of him and Glens Falls that I cherish. My son and I go as often as we can and we continue the tradition of lunch after golf in his memory.

On the Future

I wish I could make the city bigger, with more of the same qualities of the people and places that we already have. I love it here, and it’s not only because of our location, but more importantly because of the people. The people of Glens Falls and the surrounding area are the reason that we have all of the great places and events that we enjoy. We are a generous and very creative community that support each other in so many ways. What could be better than more Glens Falls?

Thanks Andy! We’ll see you at a hockey game soon!

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

At the Market: Mister Edge

Have you ever wondered about that beautiful, shiny aluminum Value Van parked in the center of the Farmers Market on Saturday mornings? Tom loved it so much that he popped his head in the door on our first visit years ago, and come to find out, there’s a pretty cool workshop inside, and an even cooler guy!

We’ve loved getting to know Craig over the years as we’ve brought our items to his mobile sharpening van at the Market, and we have a feeling you’ll be digging something out to be sharpened this weekend after reading a bit more about him. We had a blast chatting more about the benefits of regular sharpening, and loved hearing about his connection to his customers and their sentimental items, too. Get to know Craig below!

Tell us a little about yourself!  

My name is Craig Richard but most people know me as “Mr. Edge” or “the knife sharpener”. I’m originally from Long Island and relocated to the area in the early 90’s. I was tired of the “rat race” and didn’t think I would ever get ahead by living on the Island.  After moving up here, I worked for several years in retail as a butcher but wasn’t a fan of working for someone else. Becoming a sharpener was a natural choice because as a butcher I always sharpened my own knives. I knew there was a need for a sharpener in the area and decided to take the leap and start my own small business. Over the past 20+ years I’ve been fortunate enough to raise a family, build a business and become part of a great community and have never regretted my choice of putting down roots in this area.

Let’s talk about your awesome van! What’s the story behind it?

Everyone knows and loves my old school ride! It is a 1978 GMC Value Van and I’ve had it for a really long time. I’ve probably replaced just about every part in it and can’t see myself ever getting rid of it.

The mobile sharpening service is so great and convenient! How did that come to be?

I started doing mobile sharpening to expand my business. As a child I remember the van coming around the neighborhood ringing the bell and everyone running out to get their stuff sharpened - sort of like the ice cream man. Nowadays the focus is on protecting the environment so I figured people would be receptive to the idea - plus saving money is always a bonus.

Are there any dos and don’ts about sharpening folks should know about?

This is a great question and I’m glad you asked because most people don’t know how to properly care for items that can potentially be sharpened. A few things off the top of my head are: never put your knives in the dishwasher because the heat will dull the blade and crack the handles. Using glass cutting boards to cut on is another big “NO” because they can cause chips in the steel and dull your knives. The biggest “Do” is to take good care of your stuff, whatever it is, because by doing so your items will last a whole lot longer. Taking care of your tools and equipment will extend their life, reduce waste and can save you a whole lot of money in the long run. 

What types of things do you sharpen?

I can sharpen anything that has an edge…..scissors, knives, kitchen tools, garden tools, chain saw blades, hand saws, circular saw blades, clipper blades, surgical instruments and so much more. If it can be sharpened chances are I have done it in the past and can do it again.  If you aren’t sure it can be sharpened bring it to me and I will let you know.

What’s one of the most unique things you’ve sharpened?

I’ve sharpened a lot of unique things over the years. I would have to say the most unique are medical instruments. Most people don’t even realize they can be sharpened but really who wants to have a surgeon use a dull instrument?

What do you love the most about your job?

One of the most gratifying parts of sharpening is restoring something to its original glory. Lots of people bring me sentimental items that have been handed down to them from loved ones who have since passed. They all have their own personal story and I love when my customers share them.  From knives that have always been used to carve the Thanksgiving turkey, the saw that has cut the Christmas tree down every year since before they could remember, Grandpa’s knife from World War II, the pair of sewing scissors that were Mom’s, to Dad’s favorite hunting knife - I get a lot of satisfaction knowing I’m helping to keep those memories alive.

How did you become a regular vendor at the Glens Falls Farmers Market? What do you enjoy the most about it? 

I joined the Glens Falls Farmers Market about seventeen years ago. At first the board was leary about letting me join because they thought my machines would be too noisy but they decided to take a chance on me and I turned out to be very popular. I’ve been a regular vendor ever since. The thing I love the most about the market is the people - both the vendors and my customers. I’ve known these people for close to twenty years and consider them my second family.

Do you travel to other locations as well?  

I sure do. I am at the Saratoga Farmers Market at High Rock on Wednesdays from 3-6 pm and at the Canal Street Marketplace in Fort Edward on Thursdays from 4-7 pm. When I’m not at a Farmers Market you can find me at my shop in Gansevoort.

How does one get their stuff sharpened? Do you have to make an appointment? 

You don’t need an appointment to get things sharpened at the Market - just bring your stuff and drop it off. If you can’t get to the market just call the shop (518) 793-6724. You can also check out our website here.

How long does it take? 

The amount of time it takes to sharpen something depends on the item.  For instance, knives and scissors usually take a few minutes but chains saws, lawn mower blades, and clipper blades take longer. Some things I have to take back to the shop but in general most items can be sharpened by the time you have finished doing your shopping at the market. 

Thanks so much, Craig! See you at the market!

P.S. Check out another story from our At the Market series here.

Just Married: Liam and Allison Forcier

There’s no shortage of beautiful places to tie the knot in our neck of the woods, as we were reminded upon seeing photos of Liam and Allison’s gorgeous wedding at Burlap and Beams in Athol. That barn! That mountain view! Read on to find out where they met (the sweetest!), see the gorgeous photos of their venue and all the details, and hear the one piece of advice they have for you if you’re planning your wedding!

The Couple - Liam and Allison Forcier

Tell us about yourselves!

Liam is a fiber optics machinist at Burnham Polymeric Inc. for the past 3 years. I am a home health aide and will graduate Nursing school May 2020. Liam and I both grew up in Queensbury!

Where did you meet?

We are middle school sweethearts! We met in our 5th grade class at Queensbury School, and we dated all throughout middle school and high school.

What do you two like to do together?

Liam and I love to take our golden retriever puppy, Dudley, on hikes in the Adirondacks and to swim in Lake George. We spend a good portion of the summer on the lake at his grandparent’s home on Pilot Knob. We love to grill in our backyard and be with friends and family.

How about a few things that you admire about each other?

I admire Liam’s kind heart and humor. He always knows how to make me laugh no matter the situation. He is always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need and is a very loyal friend and husband. Liam admires my work ethic and determination. He also admires my dedication to nursing school and my love for our pets. 

Fun fact about you as a couple?

At our wedding, our best men and maid of honor were all of Liam’s siblings! Frankie is Liam’s little sister and is also my best friend.

The Proposal

We’d love to hear about the proposal!

He asked me to marry him on his birthday, October 8th, 2016! It was HIS birthday, but he made it about me and our love. It was the most magical day at his grandparent’s lake house on Pilot Knob on Lake George, NY. It was sprinkling rain while we drank wine and listened to Frank Sinatra under an umbrella. As we sat on top of the boathouse, the lake was calm and life was perfect in that moment. He surprised me and got down on one knee while pictures were being shot secretly from the trees. Our whole immediate family came running out of the house on the hill, shouting with joy! I was so surprised and it was so much fun. 

The Wedding - August 8, 2019

What was the setting for your wedding?

Our wedding was at Burlap and Beams Wedding Barn in Athol, NY. The barn is beautiful and rustic with gorgeous flowers everywhere. The view of the mountains is spectacular. It was everything we could have hoped for.

What was your color palette and style for the occasion?

Dusty rose and blush, starlight blue, gold, and navy.

My gown is from Something Bleu Bridal in Saratoga. The brand is Olvis and was all lace with an illusion mesh top piece. The bridesmaids wore long dusty rose gowns from Azazie. The bridesmaids held hoops with roses and greenery tied together beautifully on them.

My bouquet was cascading, loose, with blush and ivory roses, half dollar eucalyptus and greenery.

Yesenia from YM Photography and Sheila from Pieceful Settings pulled together all of the beautiful styling and décor for the wedding. The cake was ivory and simple, topped with greenery and roses. We also had beautiful cupcakes decorated with flowers and delicious mini doughnuts!

What were your favorite moments from the day?

I think my favorite moment was when we were announced as husband and wife and got to kiss for the first time! Another favorite part was our first look when we read each other our vows privately. It was so nice to have alone time with just Liam and embrace that we were actually getting married in a few hours. Then of course, the dancing with friends and family!

Did you go on a honeymoon? Where to?

We are planning a cruise for January 2020 to the Caribbean.

Do you have any advice for a bride-and-groom-to-be?

Take time to enjoy each other and take it all in! The day goes by so fast and its important to have fun with your most favorite people!

Anything else?

I can not thank everyone enough for helping pull together our wedding. Huge thank you to Yesenia from YM Photography for putting together the 2019 Adirondack Wedding Giveaway. We had the best day ever and wish we could relive it all over again! 

Vendor Credits

The following vendors donated 100% of their services as part of the Adirondack Wedding Giveaway:

Giveaway Organizer, Planner, Stylist & Main Photographer: YM Photography
China Rental & Tablescape Design & Reception Styling: Pieceful Settings
Second Photographer: Danielle Simmons Photography
Open Air Photobooth: Jason Checkla Photography
Videographer: Mitchell Wood Photography
DJ: Pure Sound Entertainment
Officiant: Ceremonies By Remy
Favors: Springbrook Hollow Farm Distillery
Wedding Welcome Sign: KriLo Art (Kristin Lombard)
Artisan donuts: Darling Doughnuts
Cake: The GingerSnap Cake Shop
Hair: Julie Potter Master Stylist.
Make-up: Katie Burns Artistry
Day-of-Coordinator: Karen&Company
Venue: Burlap and Beams Wedding Barn

The following vendors donated a portion of their services:

Flowers: North Country Flowers
Catering: On Thyme Catering

The following vendors were hired/used by the couple at cost to complete their day

Bar Service: Burlap and Beams Wedding Barn
The Dress: Something Bleu Bridal
Groomswear: Jonathan Reid
Dog Service: Luckydawg, LLC
Barber Services: Downtown Barber Co.
Transportation: Premier Plus Travel and Tours
Invitation Templates: Betty Lu Paperie
Invitation Printing: Cards & Pockets
Piper: Suzanne Barber
Wedding Signs: Pink Posies and Pearls
Silk Bouquet Ribbon: Shy Myrtle
Wax Seals for Invitations: Sally’s Heartful Creations
Accommodations: Georgian Lakeside Resort
Rehearsal Dinner Venue: West Mountain Bar & Eatery

P.S. Check out George and Bethany’s Glens Falls wedding here.

We’re looking forward to sharing the stories of engaged and newly married couples, births, milestone birthdays, retirements, and more.

Have a celebration to share? We’d love to hear from you! Contact us here.

The Weekender: September 6-8

Hey there and happy weekend! It was a crisp 48 degrees on our walk with the dogs this morning, and it’s got us thinking ahead to all the fall things. First on our list - picking up some firewood. As much as we love summer, we might love fireplace season just a smidge more :) Here’s what else is looking good this weekend:

Have a great weekend! Thanks so much for reading.
Bri + Tom

Back to School, Back in the Day

Emotional health, workforce training and college affordability are not unique challenges for contemporary educators.

School officials grappled with the same issues 75 years ago when Glens Falls was the model community for Look magazine’s “Hometown U.S.A.” series.

“Today, youth in Glens Falls – and throughout our nation – has strong hopes for the future,” Look wrote in a profile on local education in its Nov. 28, 1944 issue. “If these hopes are denied, the future itself will be in jeopardy.”

The headline on the article was, “Youth Demands Its Own New Deal.”

From the Look magazine Hometown U.S.A. Collection, courtesy The Folklife Center at Crandall Public Library

Look photographers and writers spent about six months in Glens Falls in 1943 and 1944, shooting more than 5,000 photographs and exploring the city’s social and economic fabric for the series of six cover stories and numerous other articles in the 1944 “Hometown U.S.A.” series that gave Glens Falls its nickname still commonly used today.

The photographs and magazine issues are preserved in the archives of The Folklife Center at Crandall Public Library.

Look selected Glens Falls as “a typical U.S. Hometown” representative of the nation in World War II times.

“Far from the bombs, fire and fury of battle, America’s villages, towns and cities seem safe from the ravages of war,” Look explained in the opening issue of the series. “Yet the Hometowns of U.S. fighting men and women are undergoing deep change – in some places difficult and almost violent, in others subtle and imperceptible – but in all cases, permeating our entire social life.”

From the Look magazine Hometown U.S.A. collection, courtesy The Folklife Center at Crandall Public Library

As part of its research, Look conducted an education forum with local students, the content of which was summarized in the Nov. 28 article.

“If Glens Falls is a fair sample, our American young people are ambitious,” Look concluded.

“I know one thing; the man I marry will need to make about $100 a week,” the equivalent of about $1,400 in 2019 dollars, one girl said.

Today, that female student would be more focused on her own income potential.

Technology has drastically changed the way we communicate and work.

But the basic aspirations of teens 75 years ago seem not to have changed.

“Most of them dream, as youth always does, of professions or white-collar jobs. And most of them intend to live well. They want to own their own homes and cars. They look forward to travel and recreation.”

Teens that attended the forum debated whether college should be free, and many suggested that teachers were not paid enough.

“They believe that their teachers should be younger and better trained. They realize that this means teachers must be better paid – and this they favor.”

From the Look magazine Hometown U.S.A. collection, courtesy The Folklife Center at Crandall Public Library

Glens Falls students had a strong work ethic, many having worked at evening and weekend jobs that were plentiful during the war-time labor shortage.

Nationally, five million boys and girls had been employed part-time or full-time while attending school.

“Money jingles in their pockets now, and they have more freedom than they ever had before.”

But the availability of those low-skill jobs was set to evaporate in the post-war economy.

“They agree that veterans should have their jobs back. And then they ask: ‘What about us – the five million boys and girls who held down jobs during the war?’”

In Glens Falls, 3,000 of its 19,000 residents were serving in the military, leaving jobs for teens to fill.

“War jobs have taught these youngsters much. They know how important vocational guidelines can be, and they want this service expanded to schools.”

Emotional health also was a concern.

“Most boys and girls agree they do not know enough about their own emotions,” Look suggested. “They admit they are insufficiently instructed about sex and the meaning of marriage.”

Teens differed about whether sex education was the responsibility of parents, the school or churches.

Look, in its opening issue of the series, said Glens Falls had an exceptional education system.

“The public school system is rated among the top half dozen in New York State. Its St. Mary’s Academy is one of the largest and best equipped parochial schools in the United States. … Glens Falls’ youth, like most of America’s youth, has more to be proud of than to be ashamed of, more to hope for than to despair of.”

Maury Thompson was a reporter for The Post-Star for 21 years before he retired in 2017. He now is a freelance writer and documentary film producer specializing in regional history. Thompson is collaborating with Snarky Aardvark Films to produce a documentary about Charles Evans Hughes and the Adirondacks, which is expected to release in 2020. See the trailer here.

My Glens Falls: Caitlin Stedman

We’re chatting with Caitlin Stedman this week! Read on to find out about the films (yes - plural!) she has in the works, her go-to spot in the city to relax (you know, when she’s not producing films), and a couple of her favorite hidden gems.

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Caitlin Stedman. I live a few minutes outside of downtown with my dog Vinny. I am Operations & Communications at the graphic/web design and marketing firm Advokate. I am also a screenwriter and filmmaker with my production company Snarky Aardvark Films. I have two feature films in the works right now. One is a narrative family drama called Forget-Me-Nots and the other is a documentary titled Charles Evans Hughes & The Adirondacks.

On Life in Glens Falls

I was born and raised in the area but moved around a lot in my twenties. Nowhere felt quite like Glens Falls. The arts scene here embraced me with open arms at a time when I needed it most. I’m so happy I decided to move back and stay!

Some Glens Falls Favorites

Sunny mornings in the city are idyllic. It is absolutely my favorite time to be downtown. Families are off to work or school, people are walking their dogs, tai chi might be happening in the park, everyone has their morning coffee and a smile.

Glens Falls has many hidden gems but I’m going to mention two favorites. The first is Lower Adirondack Regional Arts Council or LARAC. A lot of people are familiar with the LARAC June Arts Festival but they have a beautifully curated art gallery and gift shop that is open year-round at 7 Lapham Place (tucked behind the library). LARAC is also an amazing resource for artists of any medium. They will go out of their way to support your projects and answer any questions you may have, as well as providing grant funding and workshops. They have been an integral part of my filmmaking journey.

The second hidden gem is The Chapman Museum. I’m a history buff and have spent hours combing through their website. Specifically in The Corners Collaborative Community History Project. Here you can find a historic timeline of Glens Falls starting in 1642 along with biographies, maps, photos and more!

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

My perfect Glens Falls day would start with going for a walk with my Dad and my dog in either Crandall Park or Cole’s Woods. Afterwards I would pop into Spot Coffee for an iced green tea. For lunch I would head to The Exchange for a grown-up grilled cheese and soup (their vegan split pea is the BEST). In the evening I may head to Art In The Public Eye’s Outdoor Cinema, stroll City Park or go to an art opening before stopping at Downtown City Tavern for wine (Malbec please) and a margherita pizza.

On the Past

As a kid I loved spending rainy days in The Crandall Library. I remember curling up in their window seats and looking out at the people below walking with their umbrellas. The Library is still a very relaxing place for me. A place I really miss is the North Country Coffee Cafe on South Street. Their Chai tea and Whiteface wrap... I still have dreams about that wasabi-mayo!

On the Future

I echo Amanda Blanton’s answers that I would love to see the return of a bookstore, the addition of a rooftop bar or restaurant and also a dog park. I also think a cat cafe or dog diner where the animals are up for adoption would be amazing!

Thanks Caitlin!

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