Hometown News: July 22

Ed Bartholomew (Photo: Donna Abbott-Vlahos, courtesy of Albany Business Review)

On the Passing of Ed Bartholomew

Former Glens Falls Mayor Ed Bartholomew, who went on to work in the State Senate for another Glens Falls native, Majority Leader Joe Bruno, has passed away. This is a huge loss for the City of Glens Falls and the region. Ed was CEO of EDC Warren County, the economic development office, and also was the City’s economic development director.

Ed had the best Rolodex in Warren County. He knew everyone. He knew Albany, and he knew how to play the game. Everyone took his call, up to the Governor. Soft spoken but incredibly influential, he did more for this region over the last 50 years than anyone I can think of.

While he was kind and gracious, he was also tough as nails. He fought for his hometown. He negotiated deals no one thought would be possible. He oversaw the building of the Civic Center, brought the Adirondack Red Wings to Glens Falls, brought professional baseball to East Field, and worked quietly behind the scenes on many other major developments like a regional sewer system.

We had our battles over the years, but when I left my previous job, one of the first calls I received was from Ed. He wanted to know how I was doing, and how he could help me. He kept calling, telling me about potential job openings and offering his assistance. He was one of my three professional references.

When we would talk, he would always ask about my parents and my family. And it wasn’t small talk. He truly cared.

And now he’s gone. I’ll miss his silly laugh and his good-natured ribbing. I’ll miss his commitment to his hometown. I’ll miss his grace and toughness.

Rest well, my friend. Your work here will never be forgotten.

New York State Issues Guidance for Schools

New York State released its guidance for school districts to help them plan for reopening in September. The 145-page document covers everything from ventilation systems to health monitoring to social distancing and use of outdoor spaces for classrooms.

Among the recommendations:

• Everyone must wear masks at all times, with a few exceptions.
• Daily temperature screenings for students and staff.
• Students be spaced six feet apart in classrooms, and desks should all be pointed in the same direction.
• Arrival/dismissal times be staggered to allow for social distancing on buses and classrooms. Students should enter from a variety of entrances.
• Windows should be opened whenever possible to increase ventilation.
• “Reduce in-school movement where possible by keeping students within a defined area or classroom and modifying class schedules or class transitions using these recommendations: If possible, have the same cohort of students with the same teacher each day; Special area teachers (e.g., music, art, physical education) may go to individual classrooms versus rotating all students through a shared space that is not able to be cleaned with each new use. 
• “Whenever possible, hold physical education and music classes outside and encourage students to spread out; Stagger the use of restrooms, allowing use at other times when necessary.”
• “Ensure that a distance of twelve feet in all directions is maintained between individuals while participating in activities requires projecting the voice (e.g., singing), playing a wind instrument, or aerobic activity.”
• “Cancel/limit student assemblies, athletic events/practices, performances, school-wide parent meetings. Consider transitioning field trips to free virtual opportunities. Consider changing in-school events to a virtual format.”
• “It is strongly recommended that schools comply with CDC guidance and not conduct COVID-19 testing or require testing or antibody testing of students or staff members.” 

Districts have until July 31st to submit their reopening plans. The state will then decide on those plans in the first week of August. Many local districts are including parents and staff in the planning process through surveys and questionnaires.

More info: www.nysed.gov/coronavirus/guidance-p-12-schools.

Fall High School Sports Delayed

The New York State Public High School Athletic Association has delayed the start of fall sports until at least Sept. 21. NYSPHSAA officers also canceled fall regional and state championships, and are preparing to implement a condensed season schedule in January 2021 if high school sports remain prohibited for the rest of 2020 due to the coronavirus. At this point, that appears more and more likely.

COVID-19 Update

Late last week, Warren County Health Services began an investigation of the activities of a local high school-aged girls’ lacrosse travel team where a team member recently tested positive for COVID-19. 

At least 10 Warren County girls play on the team with the player who tested positive, who is from Albany County. In violation of state re-opening rules that restrict competitive play to the Capital Region and contiguous counties, the team traveled to New Jersey for competition in Mount Olive, New Jersey. 

The positive COVID-19 test occurred subsequent to this competition, and the mother of the girl who tested positive told the Post-Star that her daughter was infected from a family member and not from the lacrosse trip.

Warren County teammates have been identified, contacted and instructed to quarantine and to take a COVID-19 test. So far, all have tested negative.

In the days since learning of the lacrosse team, Warren County officials said they have learned of other teams who may have traveled out of state, including one team that traveled to Ohio for a tournament.

“Anyone who has left the state for a sports competition is directed to contact Warren County Health Services to go over protocols and practices to ensure that the appropriate precautions are in place,” said a press release. “Parents or guardians of any minor children who attended these competitions should call on behalf of their children.”

The number to call is 518-761-6580.

Travel teams are allowed to travel to competition within the Capital Region and to counties contiguous to the Capital Region.

Monday, Warren County announced one new case of a person who works in the health care industry. This person was tested in the course of routine testing, which likely indicates they work in a nursing home. The county now has quarantined 100 of this person’s contacts. The infected person shows no symptoms, the county said.

Sunday, Fort Hudson Nursing Home announced on its website that they were stopping limited visitation of residents because a staff member tested positive for the coronavirus. The statement reads in part, “NYS Dept. of Health provides a wide range of requirements for visitation to happen. Unfortunately, outside of anyone’s control, a prior test positive individual (after repeated negative tests) did have a positive read. The state does not allow for differentiation of past positive individuals – ANY new positive immediately halts visitation. We are working diligently with the state to review and allow for our reopening as soon as possible. We will keep families informed as we move forward.” 

As of Tuesday, there were 266 active cases in the Capital Region, which includes Warren, Washington, Saratoga, Rensselaer, Schenectady, Greene, Columbia and Albany counties. Thirty-four people were hospitalized, and 1,813 were under quarantine. There were 36 new active cases recorded from Monday to Tuesday in the eight-county region.

Saratoga Race Course: No Fans, But Plenty of Wagering

Saratoga Race Course opened for the season on July 16th, and the first four days seemed to go off without a hitch. There were no spectators, and the fields were small, but that didn’t stop fans from wagering! The total handle for the opening four days was a staggering $80.3-million, up 9.4% from last year’s total of $73.4-million. Roughly $2-million was wagered on each race during the first four days. This betting follows a national trend of record parimutuel wagering totals.

Last year’s total handle was $705.3-million. This year’s total will shatter that figure, if the first weekend is any indication.

Last Friday’s Pick 5, where you try to pick the winner of the first five races, featured two $41 horses to open the card, and concluded with a 50-cent winning ticket paying $9,609! Not a bad return on your investment!

Former Adirondack Hockey Broadcaster Mentioned for NHL Job

Former Adirondack Flames and Adirondack Thunder radio broadcaster Cameron Close is being mentioned for a prime National Hockey League job. Close, who left Adirondack in 2017 to become the radio voice of the Ontario (CA) Reign of the American Hockey League, was named in a story in The Athletic as a possible successor to Rick Peckham, the longtime TV play-by-play man of the Tampa Bay Lightning. The story said Close was one of several possible “under the radar” choices the Lightning have to fill the job.

DEC Closes Prospect Mountain Trail

Prospect Mountain Trail is now closed due to construction on the summit. The State Department of Environmental Conservation said in a press release, “The summit area, above the parking lot, has been closed to the public, and signs at the trail told hikers the summit area was not open. However, many hikers entered the construction zone, so DEC has closed the trail.

“The summit of the mountain and the trail will remain closed until late August while 500 feet of mortared stone border wall that is crumbling along summit lookout areas is removed and replaced with individual cut stone blocks. 

“Due to the grades, the moving of the stone blocks is difficult and dangerous, especially with heavy equipment. The road and the path from the parking lot are blocked.”

Warrensburgh Blueberry Festival!

The inaugural Warrensburgh Blueberry Festival is Friday, July 24, from 3 to 6 p.m., at the Warrensburgh Riverfront Farmers' Market on River Street in the park across from Curtis Lumber. 

“Local vendors, local berries...early and late varieties of organically grown fruit, preserves, baked goods, cheeses and distilled beverages enhanced with blueberries,” says a press release. “Featuring Warren County farms and local businesses: Adirondack Gold Maple Farm, Caldwell Country Farm, Chipmunk Acres, Coffee with a Cause, Crazy Creek LLC, Dawn's Delights, Glens Falls Distillery, Jason's ADK Produce, Nettle Meadow Cheese Farm and more.” Info: 518-466-5497 or taawhalen@yahoo.com.

World’s Largest Garage Sale Canceled

The 2020 World’s Largest Garage Sale, scheduled for October 2-4 in Warrensburg, is canceled. "This was not a decision we arrived at lightly," Executive Director Suzanne Tyler said in a press release. Next year’s World's Largest Garage Sale is scheduled for October 1-3, 2021.

Price Chopper to Discontinue Offering Plastic Bags

Price Chopper announced they would no longer carry disposable, single-use plastic bags in New York stores. In the announcement, Price Chopper said the change would be effective August 1. The stores encourage customers to bring their own reusable bag, or to purchase one from the store.

Ending on a High Note…

And finally, congratulations to Matt Chase of Queensbury, who was named a Performer of the Week in the Independent Collegiate Baseball League. Matt plays for the Glens Falls Independents. A sophomore at Ithaca College, he helped the team to its first win with a brilliant pitching performance, allowing just one hit and striking out 10 in six innings.

GORDON WOODWORTH

A South Glens Falls native, Gordon Woodworth is a respected and well-connected voice of the community. As a journalist, he has covered the Glens Falls region for more than 20 years. Read his full bio here, and click here to follow along with him on Facebook - he’s always reporting!

Beloved South Glens Falls Teacher Karen Carayiannis Retires After 45 Years

After 45 years, beloved South Glens Falls teacher Karen Carayiannis has retired.

“My last day was June 30th,” she told Glens Falls Living, sitting in a rocking chair sipping iced tea on the porch of her Fortsville log cabin. “I know, because on July 1st, I had to make my first payment for my health insurance!”

Mrs. Carayiannis’ remarkable career began in the fall of 1967 when she was a third-grade student teacher for another South Glens Falls teaching legend, Glenna Shanahan, at Harrison Avenue.

She was a senior at Plattsburgh State at the time, and originally from Long Island, but South Glens Falls quickly became home.

“Bill Wetherbee, who had just started as superintendent of schools, told me when I graduated, I had a job,” she said. “So in the fall of 1968, I started teaching full-time in the third grade at Harrison Avenue.”

And then, after two years, she quit.

“My best friend Wendy and I had always wanted to teach together in a small school district, so we both went to Cape Cod and I taught first grade at a small school outside of Hyannis,” she said. “But Wendy was getting married the next year, and after a year, I called Bill Wetherbee and asked, “Can I come home?”

He said, “‘Yes, I have a job for you at Harrison Avenue.’ So, I came back home.”

Two years later, she met John Carayiannis at a party at Whit and Joyce Butterfield’s home in the village. He was the principal at the newly opened Tanglewood Elementary School. They married in February of 1974, and that December their daughter Elizabeth was born.

“I quit again,” she said, giggling. For eight years she raised Elizabeth while doing some substitute teaching, mostly at Ballard Elementary, and filling in for maternity leaves for dear friends Kris Nolan and Karen Johns.

“In 1982, I went back to work, and got a job at Moreau, filling in a leave in second grade for two years,” she remembered. “Then there was an opening at Moreau in first grade, and I took it, and I taught first grade there from then on.”

In the late 1990s, she and John took a year off and traveled the world, visiting Greece and Alaska and Florida. Shortly after the trip, John was diagnosed with a brain tumor. He died in May 2000.

“I took some time off after he died,” she said. “But the next week, I was back at work. I taught mornings and Bobbie Porter taught afternoons.”

Now, closing in on her 74th birthday, she is retired.

“I won’t substitute, but I will help Joyce Kerr, who I’ve taught with for more than 20 years, but I will be a volunteer,” she said.

She’ll also no doubt lend a hand to Marissa (Carpenter) Macey, who has the honor of taking over her classroom at Moreau.

Mrs. Macey, a South High graduate, said, “She is an incredible human being. Karen certainly cannot be replaced. I am lucky enough to have had the opportunity to spend time with her and she gave me some tricks of the trade. She has also said that she would come back and help out often and I am certainly going to hold her to it. Although I really hope she spends some time for herself. She deserves it.”

What will she do in retirement?

Well, if one evening last week is any indication, she’ll be welcoming well-wishers coming by with gifts and laughs. The night this reporter was there, longtime friends Jeff and Leeann McCabe came by with gifts, as did a group of moms whose children were in Karen’s final class.

“I loved what I’ve done,” she said. “I can’t imagine doing anything else. I really have enjoyed it. I’ve loved working for Bill Wetherbee and with Bill Elder.”

Mr. Elder is a longtime school board member and longtime friend who Karen mentioned in her brief retirement letter to the district.

“Bill Elder is the epitome of class and professionalism who led the board twice,” she said. “I ended my letter with ‘Thank you Bill Elder.’”

Does she know how much she touched generations of students and their families?

“It’s been great touching so many lives and having them touch mine, and then to teach the kids of students I taught,” she said. 

One of her favorite students, who unabashedly said she was his favorite teacher, was Timmy Pratt, the State Trooper tragically killed in 2016.

Retiring during a pandemic is not ideal, she admitted.

“It has been so hard,” she said. “There were no field trips this spring, no picnics, no trips to see our friends at Home of the Good Shepherd. There were so many activities we couldn’t do.

“But we did hatch chickens, and every two weeks I would deliver schoolwork to my students.”

She also would drive to their homes and read to them out of the back of her Subaru.

“Ironically, I think I got closer to my 16 kids and their families this year than I have in many years.”

Will there be a formal retirement dinner?

“Oh no! There will be a Moreau family picnic at Butterfields, but that’s it.”

What’s on tap this summer?

Her log cabin needs a new roof, she’s going to have a few more trees taken down, and she plans to reseed her front lawn.

“I don’t mind my own company,” she said. “That doesn’t mean I’m lonely or alone. I’m thrilled to read a stack of books on my nightstand. It’s nice to have that time.”

And she’ll watch her grandchildren, using the teaching skills she honed over 45 years.

“I’m not going anywhere,” she said. “This is home. This is always home.”

P.S. We asked several former students for their thoughts on Karen Carayiannis’ retirement - read their thoughts here!

GORDON WOODWORTH

A South Glens Falls native, Gordon Woodworth is a respected and well-connected voice of the community. As a journalist, he has covered the Glens Falls region for more than 20 years. Read his full bio here, and click here to follow along with him on Facebook - he’s always reporting!

The Weekender: July 17 - 19

Hey there and happy weekend! It’s gonna be a hot one, and we’re ready to roll. Here’s what’s doin’: 

Drive-In: Yesss - the reopening everyone has been waiting for. The Glen Drive-In is officially reopening tomorrow (Friday) night, and their movie selection could not be better. Goonies, Gremlins, Jaws, and Jurassic Park. Summer at its finest. Pass the popcorn! Details here. 

Common Roots: And another reopening everyone has been waiting for! We’re psyched to see that Common Roots is open in their original location and we can’t wait to check out the amazing new space. They’re open for beer to-go at this point, but stay tuned here for news on the introduction of on-site drafts and food in the coming weeks! 

Rotary 5K: Have you signed up for the Rotary (Virtual) 5K yet? You’ll run the 3.11 miles on your own and the funds raised from the event go to a great cause (Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Southern Adirondacks and World Awareness Children’s Museum). Sign up here and you can run anytime from July 17 - 26! 

Road Trip: We’re heading out to Granville this weekend for a little antique hunting (here’s one of the sales if you’re interested!), and we’re hoping to hit a few of our favorites while we’re there. If you’re looking for a little road trip this weekend, check out our mini travel guide to Granville for the best place to grab breakfast, cider donuts, an awesome beer, and lots more - check it out here (a couple of updates for summer: go blueberry + cherry picking at Hicks / Second Chance Barn is closed this summer). 

Garden Picnic: Have you been up to Fort Ticonderoga in a while? We went up last summer, and while Tom was all about the history, I can’t stop thinking about how pretty the King’s Garden is. If you’re looking for an amazing picnic spot this weekend, just steps away from Lake Champlain, that’s your place. See more here. 

Have a great weekend!
Bri + Tom

Hometown News: July 15

COVID-19 Update: Local Cases Rising Again

With the coronavirus intensifying in much of the country, we’re starting to see more cases here in the Glens Falls region. It was inevitable, given the amount of visitors to our area during the summer months. Add in people returning home after visiting southern and western hotspots, and it’s clear that COVID-19 is not done yet.

Warren County Administrator Ryan Moore made an appearance on NBC Nightly News Tuesday evening, talking about how the virus is making a comeback in our region - you can watch that here.

Officials in Warren and Saratoga County point to a July 4th party for helping spread the virus here. The party and other social gatherings resulted in 22 new cases in Saratoga County, officials confirmed.

Warren County said Tuesday it is monitoring 12 active coronavirus cases (four new today), and 45 residents are under mandatory quarantine.

Washington County reports it has four active cases and is monitoring 75 residents for symptoms of COVID-19.

And Albany County reported 44 new coronavirus cases Wednesday. The last time they recorded that many new cases was two months ago. Montgomery County has also seen a significant spike recently.

Statewide deaths stood at 24,994 as of Tuesday afternoon.

What Will School Look Like in September?

Governor Andrew Cuomo released preliminary guidance for school districts to use to plan for a possible reopening in September.

All students, teachers and staff must wear masks, there must be adequate spacing and ventilation, and plans must be in place for a multitude of scenarios, including what happens if a student or teacher or staff member tests positive.

School districts must submit plans to the state by the end of July. The Governor’s Office will then, on a case-by-case basis, determine how and when and if schools can reopen.

Districts in regions that are in Phase Four are eligible to reopen, as long as their region’s testing numbers are in the approved range. Right now, our region meets the criteria. But all plans are subject to change as the numbers change, officials emphasized.

My take? Schools will reopen in some form or fashion, but it may not be in September. It will likely be a combination of in-person schooling and remote learning, a hybrid of sorts. It could include students going to schools on pre-determined days, and staying home other days. That’s far from ideal, I know, but public safety is the primary concern. It will remain that way, as it has to. 

I don’t see any way there will be high school sports this fall or winter. Depending on the coronavirus numbers, officials may decide to wait until January or February and reassess conditions. 

Also, schools may physically reopen for a period of time, only to be closed again. Flexibility will be key. Clearly, it’s going to be a bumpy ride.  

Cheers! Common Roots Returns!

Common Roots Brewery, which suffered a catastrophic fire more than a year ago, is slowly reopening in its modern new brewpub on the same site on Saratoga Avenue in South Glens Falls. In a Facebook post, owners Christian and Bert Weber write, “The Taproom at 58 Saratoga Avenue is now open for to-go sales only. We will maintain our current operating schedule of Noon-8pm, 7 days/week, for the foreseeable future. Delivery and online ordering for pickup are temporarily paused during our transition.”

Veteran food service manager and South Glens Falls native Dan Biddiscombe is now on board working at Common Roots, a move met with delight by his many friends and family in town!

Coach’s Corner Goes on the Road

Coach’s Corner, Jack Celeste’s South Glens Falls gathering place across from St. Michael’s Church, closed on Tuesday, serving its final meals after a three-year run. 

But it will be reimagined as a food truck soon! Jack tells Glens Falls Living that a modern, upgraded, completely remodeled food truck is on order from Iowa, and will be here soon. His daughters Mallory and Lindsey say their dad will work some weekdays, hitting some loyal customer bases, and “We will be taking over weekends, and Thursday and Friday night dinners! We will also be available for weddings and any type of party! We are so excited for this new journey! As soon as we get more figured out, we will keep everyone updated. So stayed tuned, like we said before, we aren’t going anywhere, we are just moving on wheels.”

So keep an eye out for Coach’s Corner On The Road!

…and More Reopenings!

The popular Anvil Inn in Fort Edward is reopening tomorrow, July 16th! A Facebook post says owner Neal Orsini “ripped the place apart” and redid the floors and painted the kitchen. If you go, don’t forget to try the cranberry bread pudding for dessert. It may change your life!

—————

Doreen’s Soup Kitchen has moved into the Hudson Falls United Methodist Church! A Facebook post says, “We moved…so we could help more people, [and] have more parking space that was much safer for the seniors.

“…Unfortunately Covid-19 had terrible timing and has put a stop to us opening the Soup Kitchen until we get the approval from the Church and the state to open up again. HOWEVER, the Food Pantry is OPEN and we are taking appointments to feed people that need the assistance! Please reach out to us at 518-747-9042 if you have ANY questions or if you need assistance with food! God Bless you all!” 

And They’re Off!

Saratoga Race Course opens for the season on Thursday, with no fans. But New York Racing Association officials are banking on fans still betting on the races during the 40-day meet! Last year, horse-racing enthusiasts wagered nearly $700-million off-track on races at The Spa. That’s a lot of $2 exactas!

If you are prone to put a dollar or two down on a thoroughbred, here are a couple of tips:

• The best value is found in maiden races for 2-year-olds. Often, many of the horses that run in these races have never raced before. This is where big long shots can hit the board. Take a flyer!

• Look for horses who have been on the grounds for a while and are comfortable here. The more comfortable a horse is, the better he or she will run. 

Visitors Welcomed Back to Nursing Homes

Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that nursing homes are now able to allow limited visits for their residents, ending months of isolation for many families of senior citizens who live in elder-care facilities.

Residents are now allowed two visitors at a time. Visitors must undergo temperature checks, wear face coverings and socially distance during the visit. At least one of the two visitors must be at least 18 years old, the state Department of Health mandates. Only 10 percent of the residents can be allowed visitors at any time.

Yep, Another Cancelation

As expected, the Adirondack Nationals Car Show scheduled for Lake George Village in September has been canceled, joining a myriad of other annual events that will wait until 2021. 

Sign of the Times?

VTDigger reports “Vermont Ag Secretary Anson Tebbetts says Vermont has lost 25 dairy farms in last four months. Before Covid, the state was losing about 1.5 dairy farms a month. Vermont has just 636 farms milking cows now.”

The situation in Washington County isn’t much better, as larger farms increasingly buy up the milk quotas of smaller family farms.

How ‘Bout a Drive In Movie?!

And finally, a slice of normalcy! Glen Drive In on Route 9 in Queensbury opens for the season on Friday, July 17th! The movies are Goonies, Gremlins, Jaws and Jurassic Park! I can smell the popcorn now!

Until next time -
Gordon

GORDON WOODWORTH

A South Glens Falls native, Gordon Woodworth is a respected and well-connected voice of the community. As a journalist, he has covered the Glens Falls region for more than 20 years. Read his full bio here, and click here to follow along with him on Facebook - he’s always reporting!

New Addition: Larisa June Fountain

The Fountain Family welcomed little Larisa in April and she couldn’t be sweeter! This week they’re sharing the sweet way Marisa told Josh she was pregnant, some great advice for new parents, what they love about running their business in Glens Falls, and lots more!

Tell us about your family!

We are Marisa and Josh Fountain and we just welcomed our baby girl named Larisa June Fountain. She was born April 23rd of this year.

We are from and live in Queensbury, both graduates of Queensbury High. We are the owners of Sweets by Marisa, which is located at 217 Dix Ave, in Glens Falls. We have been open three years this past May. Unfortunately due to Covid-19 we are temporarily closed, and were unable to celebrate our anniversary with our amazing customers. Josh also owns 518 Auto and Cycle, which is a mobile automotive, marine and power sport electronics company. Both of our businesses have also been winners of Best of the Region the last two years. 

We love the area that we live in and our community. We have had so much support for our business and also for our new addition to our family. The Adirondack region has always been special to us. The local events such as the Balloon Festival, LARAC, and Taste of the North Country are all favorites of ours. One of our favorite things to do is have dinner at locally owned restaurants - Mikado and Craft on 9 being our two favorites. During the summer, we enjoy spending as much time as we can outside and on the Lake. Fall being my favorite time of year, we decorate our home with mums and pumpkins from The Garden Barn while enjoying their amazing cider donuts.

Our family is very big into the holidays. Christmas is a special time of year for us. We decorate our home, watch Christmas movies, and love driving around looking at the Christmas lights. It's a special time with our customers at Sweets by Marisa as well. We have our signature Grinch cupcakes that not only the kids love, but the adults do as well. And we get to help our customers bring their ideal sweets to their homes. Each year we have done our Christmas Eve dessert box, which is an assortment of our cookies, fudge, and eclairs, as well as our decorate your own sugar cookie box. Families have such fun decorating their cookies together. Our customers send us photos of them enjoying each other while decorating, and of course their finished art work. Owning not only one, but two businesses in our area has really brought us close to our community and we are forever grateful. 

Sharing the News

When I found out I was pregnant my husband was working. A few years ago I had made a box of cards that said “Open When”. One of those cards was an “Open when I tell you I'm pregnant” card, so when Josh got home, I walked out of our bedroom holding the envelope in my hands, as he turned around to talk to me, it was the first thing he saw. We couldn't have been happier with the news. 

Telling our family was one of the most exciting moments for us. We did a little something different for each of our parents and my sister and his brother with signs and sayings. They were ecstatic when we shared the news. It had been something everyone had been waiting very patiently for.

Our friends were not expecting this news. With Josh and I running two businesses and being on the go all of the time, they thought it would be a while. We made Christmas ornaments, that read Aunt and Uncle, with their names on them. Everyone was so happy!

We did find out the gender and had a gender reveal party at our home. All of our family and friends came to enjoy the exciting news with us, and my Uncle who is from Hudson Falls, but now lives in Missouri was able to Facetime with us during the reveal so he wouldn't miss this special moment. We popped a large black balloon in our backyard that had pink confetti inside. My husband had no doubt in his mind that it was a girl, and of course he was right! 

Josh, Marisa, and Larisa Fountain (photo provided)

All About Larisa

Larisa June was born on April 23, 2020 weighing 5lbs 12.5 ounces and measuring 17.5 inches.

I wanted to name her after myself but Josh wouldn't let me - haha. So we decided on Larisa. Her middle name is after my grandmother, June Allen, who passed away the week before I found out I was pregnant.

Larisa already has such a personality. She smiles and makes all kinds of faces. She doesn't really cry, she will only fuss when she is cold, wet, or hungry. We couldn't have asked for a better baby. The amount of hair she has is one of her most popular traits that everyone notices immediately. That she gets from me, I had a lot of hair as a baby. She resembles me quite a bit, but has Josh's eyes and mannerisms. She loves sleeping with her hand behind her head, or straight back above her head, which is one hundred percent her dad.

We have been very fortunate to be able to spend a lot of time together as a family. We take daily walks together, set aside time for Larisa to have tummy time, and I'd have to say bath time is our favorite right now. She loves the warm water and having her head massaged. 

On Parenthood

Our favorite thing about being parents so far is watching Larisa grow. She has changed so much since she was born, and we are a part of her growth and learning. She is the best thing that has ever happened to us. The most challenging part of being parents so far is getting things done around our house. Not because we are tired, but because all we want to do is spend time with her, and we catch ourselves just staring at her while she sleeps because she is so cute! 

Being a parent has taught us that a lot of things that we thought mattered really don't. She is now the most important part of our lives and we will do everything we can for her. Becoming parents has changed our responses to many different things. At night when we are sleeping, as soon as she moves or makes a noise we are both awake. We also just somehow know what each of her fussy cries mean, and what she needs at that moment.

We are looking forward to so many different stages of her life, but currently the one we are looking forward to the most is when she hugs us for the first time.

Words of Wisdom

The best advice we have gotten so far is to always listen to what she has to say at every age. No matter what it is. If we give her our full attention and listen to the little stuff, as she gets older she will still come to us and talk to us about the big stuff. Nothing your child says is unimportant. 

Advice that we would give to new parents is that the more relaxed and calm you are, the more relaxed and calm your baby is. Babies pick up on stress and tension, which then may make them start to get fussy. Now of course this is easier said than done sometimes, so make sure you always take a little bit of time every day for yourself. 

On Newborn Essentials

We have a swing that is also a bassinet, and it has three features such as laying flat, being propped at a slight angle, and then it is also able to sit her up. It has been amazing for us. Larisa will sleep and just relax in hers with no problem. 

Our Diaper Genie is something we would absolutely recommend to parents. It saves you from constantly taking your garbage out, even when the bag isn't full. 

Our Bottle Sterilizer is our favorite tool. We don't have to worry about boiling our bottles, we are able to stick her bottles in the sterilizer, turn it on, and they are done in ten minutes! 

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At Glens Falls Hospital, we know how special that first kiss given to your newborn is. That’s why we’ve taken strides to provide the most intimate, state-of-the-art accommodations for delivering your little bundle of joy at the Joyce Stock Snuggery.

Thank you for supporting the businesses and organizations that support Glens Falls Living!

Massie's Reopens With a New Look

Massie’s, the venerable Italian restaurant in South Glens Falls, has quietly reopened after a three-month renovation added a new bar and updated the formal dining room.

“We closed on the first day of the quarantine, on March 15th,” owner Jon Greenwood, 35, told Glens Falls Living. “I figured, let’s just do it.”

Mr. Greenwood, an executive chef and Queensbury High School graduate, bought Massie’s in January 2016 from Pat Russo. The Russo family had run it since 1929, when Pat Russo’s father Ralph, known as Massie, opened it during the Great Depression.

“We redid the original bar in 2017,” Mr. Greenwood said. “That was the first major project. Then we did a full kitchen remodel, from floor to ceiling. We have new coolers, new hood fan systems, all of it energy efficient.”

Then his attention turned to the old-school formal dining room.

“I love repurposing spaces for efficiency,” he said. “Everything in the restaurant business is about being efficient, about minimizing steps.”

The new bar has a full drink station near the kitchen, making it easier for servers. The renovated dining space includes canvas photos of the classic murals that for decades adorned the walls.

Mr. Greenwood kept most of the work in the family. His uncle, Jim Greenwood of JPG Homes, and his brother, Jeff of Jeff Greenwood Construction, did much of the work. Jamie Smith of Tile Solutions did the floors, and Jon Greenwood’s cousin Darren Greenwood was a constant presence.

“Having my uncle is great,” Jon said. “He is so meticulous about planning.”

The old bar and dining area is now for private parties only. The upper dining room seats 60, while the bar area seats 40. Overall, the restaurant seats about 165.

“People come in and are lost!” Jon said. “They love it! I brought back the old phone booth, and the great painting of Massie, in a nod to tradition. Many people knew Massie, so we needed to feature that wonderful painting.”

He’s also seeking old Massie’s memorabilia to fill out his collection. 

The menu still includes the classics: spaghetti and meatballs, ziti, the relish trays, the liver pate and the garlic bread.

“We dropped the full-course dining option because we were finding it was just too much food for people,” he said. “Everything is now a la carte.”

He said business has been very strong since reopening.

“We’re so steeped in local,” he said. “I would guess that 50 percent of our customers come in more than once a week. It’s unbelievable.

“The first year after I bought the restaurant was the hardest year of my life. I put so much into it, and was trying so hard to keep Massie’s the way it was. We are trying our best, but there are always going to be naysayers.

“I love delivering a good experience. Since we’ve reopened, business has been great. We’re so big we can socially distance people easily. And we’ve been doing a lot of takeout.”

Massie’s is open Tuesday through Sunday starting at 4 p.m. For more info, check out their website here.

Owner/Chef Jon Greenwood

GORDON WOODWORTH

A South Glens Falls native, Gordon Woodworth is a respected and well-connected voice of the community. As a journalist, he has covered the Glens Falls region for more than 20 years. Read his full bio here, and click here to follow along with him on Facebook - he’s always reporting!

The Weekender: July 10 - 12

Happy weekend! How’s it going? Planning on tearing yourself away from the air conditioning anytime soon? Can’t say we are, but here are a few things tempting us this weekend ;) 

Big news - Craft on 9 will be open for lunch starting this Friday and Saturday at 11:30am! Sign me up for a grilled cheese and frites! And in other exciting restaurant news, Gourmet Cafe reopens next Wednesday - yay!

Fair food and classic cars - a perfect pair! There’s a Food Truck Corral and Classic Car Cruise-In at the Washington County Fairgrounds on Saturday, and if the rain holds off, this sounds like a perfect afternoon ride for us in the Wagoneer (and even if the rain doesn’t hold off, good news - the event runs every Saturday in July!). Grab the details here.  

Heading south this weekend? Two fun ideas for you! 

First, have you ever been to June Farms? It’s one of our favorite spots in the region - a gorgeous farm, the cutest animals, and a snack and cocktail bar that just so happens to be in a beautiful barn. Highly recommend! Kiddos are welcome during the day, but most evenings are 21+. Grab the scoop here!

Another favorite off the Northway - Vischer Ferry General Store. Amazing food, perfectly curated shopping, and sweetest atmosphere. Grab food to go and enjoy on their patio, or reserve one of their cruiser bikes for a bike picnic in the nearby Vischer Ferry Preserve. Details here!

Enjoy the weekend!
Bri + Tom

P.S. Missing 5K races this year? We are too! Good news - the Rotary Club of Glens Falls, Rotary 5K is moving ahead as a virtual race later this month, meaning you’ll run the 3.11 miles on your own and bonus - the funds raised from the event go to a great cause (Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Southern Adirondacks and World Awareness Children’s Museum). Sign up here and you can run anytime from July 17 - 26. Thinking we’d better dust off the sneaks this weekend to prepare ;)

Hometown News: July 8

COVID-19 Update: We’re Not Out of the Woods Yet

As we experience the dog days of summer, it’s clear that the coronavirus pandemic is still very much a factor in upstate New York. With new infections increasing in 38 states across the country, it was only a matter of time before we started seeing more cases in the Glens Falls region, and that’s exactly what is happening.

Warren County went from no active cases to 10 in a week, most from residents who vacationed in Florida, where the virus is spiking. Most troubling, one person is infected and health officials are trying to figure out how they got the virus. One resident is hospitalized and is expected to recover.

The county reported a person who runs a “personal care” business tested positive. Personal care businesses include barbershops, nail and hair salons, tattoo shops, massage studios and spas. Warren County did not release the name of the business, and said all of the potentially exposed clients have been identified and contacted. In all, 45 people are being monitored in precautionary quarantine.

The numbers remain stable in Washington County, with only one active case and 14 people being monitored for symptoms.

Saratoga County reported 43 active cases earlier this week, and four hospitalized.

The statewide death toll is approaching 25,000.

New York’s travel advisory for visitors from COVID hot-spot states has been expanded to travelers from 19 states. As of Tuesday, the states included in New York State’s travel restriction are: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nevada, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Utah. Visitors from those states are asked to self-quarantine for two weeks.

Anyone traveling to Warren County from these states is asked to call Warren County Health Services at 518-761-6580. Click here for more info.

Also, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced Wednesday that local school districts would be issued guidance on reopening plans on Monday, July 13. The districts will then have until July 31st to submit plans to the state. The state will then decide whether each individual district can open based on their plan by August 7th.

The Governor also made it clear that the decision if and when to reopen schools was a state decision. “It’s not up to the President,” he said.

Governor Cuomo also said malls can open on Friday if they have the proper ventilation filters in place that greatly reduce the possibility of the virus being distributed through the air. This afternoon, Aviation Mall announced that it will indeed open on Friday.

“Overall, we have implemented all of the guidance released by the federal government, CDC, and the State of New York,” Aviation Mall said in a press release. “We stand prepared to re-open safely.”

Gourmet Cafe To Reopen on July 15

Francis and Tracy Willis’s popular Gourmet Cafe restaurant in downtown Glens Falls is reopening on Wednesday, July 15, news that was celebrated on social media when the Willis family announced it.

“We will be doing our part by continuing to hold ourselves to high standards of cleanliness as well as maintaining all of the most up to date guidelines to help curb the spread of the virus,” they said on Facebook. “ Masks will be required and appreciated by all of our guests until seated at your table. With everyone's continued hard work, we can help prevent any future dining rollbacks. We appreciate everyone who has reached out with words of encouragement. We are looking forward to seeing everyone.”

Gourmet Cafe has been closed since March 17.

Queensbury High School Track Reopens

Queensbury Schools announced that the high school track and surrounding walking/running trails are now open!

“Please be sure to abide by all Covid-19 safety guidelines,” the district said in a Tweet. “Please maintain social distancing and disinfect your hands prior to entering and leaving the track. Be smart & stay safe.” 

Warren County Summer Youth Program Kicks Into Gear

Warren County Employment & Training Administration announced that the annual Summer Youth Employment Program will begin later this month. “This year’s program will be different, given the health concerns and short notice to get the program going, so there will be limited spots and an abbreviated application window,” said a press release. 

“The majority of the worksites will have primarily outdoor work that includes physical distancing, face coverings, and other safety measures to ensure that the youth remain protected from contracting or spreading the coronavirus.  

“Longstanding partnerships with BOCES and Warren-Hamilton Counties Community Action, who oversee Operation Food Chain during the summer, will allow youth program workers to help provide free lunches to all community members aged 18 and under.” 

Other worksites are being finalized, and the tentative dates for this year's abbreviated program are July 27 to August 28. 

Interested Warren County youth must complete the application and submit it by July 15, 2020 to Jill Metcalfe at metcalfej@warrencountyny.gov.  Forms are at warren-county-ny-covid-19-warrencountyny.hub.arcgis.com/pages/syep.

Jimmer Mulling Playing Options

Glens Falls legend Jimmer Fredette has been freed from his contract with Panathinaikos in the EuroLeague, and is reportedly considering signing with Zenit St. Petersburg in Russia. Fredette signed a two-year, $3.5-million deal with Panathinaikos before last season, and averaged 12.9 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.8 assists. He shot 41.7% from downtown and 47.3% from the field. Reports are he was asked to take a 50% pay cut. Last season he was the second highest-paid player on the team.

Benjamin Criddle of ESPN 960 in Utah reported Wednesday that Fredette had turned down “multiple offers” in Asia and could be open to taking a pay cut and returning to Panathinaikos. Stay tuned!

SUNY Adirondack, Plumbers Union Announce Collaboration

UA Plumbers & Steamfitters Local 773 announced it is partnering with SUNY Adirondack to offer an associate degree program to its members.

“For our Apprentices, there is even more excitement in that SUNY Adirondack will grant 30 credits towards the degree upon successful completion of your NYS Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Training Program,” said a Facebook post. “Also, not only is the partnership available to our immediate Local, it will be available to all Building Trades Unions! 

“To be awarded this opportunity by the NYS Department of Education is an incredible feat…The leaders of the trades have always recognized and appreciated the need and the commitment that an individual must put forth to gain higher education. It wasn’t until now, locally, that a higher education facility such as SUNY Adirondack and a leading Local Union have come together to provide for many skilled members, a NYS Board of Education recognized degree. 

“It is the hope of the Training Department at Local 773 that individuals will see this partnership to gain the best of both worlds. To come together for the betterment of men and women contemplating between taking the path of obtaining a college degree or obtaining training in a career trade is a testament to how two separate educational facilities can work together.”

What’s With All of the Dead Fish on Lake George?

Many boaters noticed a lot of dead fish floating on Lake George over the holiday weekend, and took to social media for answers. The Lake George Association was all over it, and responded with this post from Kristen Wilde, their director of education.

"The fish die off is lakewide and something we see every year to some extent. Some years it is worse than others. It is likely the result of low concentrations of dissolved oxygen in the water due to a fast warming of Lake George. The Lake warmed about 10 degrees within three days.

“Also, the lack of rain has not allowed for water circulation which would also play a factor in depleting oxygen. Many have mentioned seeing dead perch and sunfish, among other species. They are the warm-water fish, in the top "story" of the Lake's two story fishery, living in the upper levels of the Lake that experienced the fast temperature increase.

"The deep coldwater fish are not being seen in the die off since cold water holds more oxygen than warm water."

Experienced fishing charter captain Jeff Johnson of Rod Bender Charters also chimed in, writing on Facebook, “I am out there every day. Most of the fish have been dead for some time and are quite decayed. They fill with gasses and then come to the surface. I believe many were winter kills, then surfaced when the water warmed quickly.”

Until next time -
Gordon

GORDON WOODWORTH

A South Glens Falls native, Gordon Woodworth is a respected and well-connected voice of the community. As a journalist, he has covered the Glens Falls region for more than 20 years. Read his full bio here, and click here to follow along with him on Facebook - he’s always reporting!

My Glens Falls: Mallory Stark

This week, we’re chatting with Mallory Stark, who you’ve probably seen around town with a leash in hand as the owner of Luckydawg - a dog walking and pet sitting service! She shares the podcast she’s usually listening to while out on walks with her canine clients, her top coffee and smoothie picks in the city, and a great idea for a future event in Glens Falls - read on below!

Tell us about yourself!

Hi! I’m Mallory Stark, owner & operator of Luckydawg, LLC, a dog walking and pet sitting business established in 2016! I feel extremely grateful to be able to serve so many amazing people in our community through my business. I love my human clients just as much as I love their animals and one of my favorite parts of my job is the relationships I have formed through my work! On a normal day you can find me with a leash in hand listening to a podcast (Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard is my favorite). In my spare time I enjoy evening workout classes, spending time with friends and family and the occasional road trip/vacation, preferably to the ocean!

On Life in Glens Falls

I was born in Maui, Hawaii and soon after my family relocated to Glens Falls (that has to say something about our area)! My memories of life in Glens Falls include fall afternoons at the annual hot air balloon festival, weekly summer beach trips to Lake George (my mom is from San Diego so a love of the beach was a non negotiable), bike trail rides with my Dad to Hudson Falls to visit my grandparents, and hiking Buck Mountain with our pups. My parents definitely did their best to keep my younger brother and I outside and active! These are all things I still love to do now and luckily I only live about 15 minutes away from Glens Falls on a farm in Fort Edward.

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

My perfect Glens Falls day would start with a coffee from Cool Beans and an eyebrow appointment at By Baileigh on Ridge Street. Baileigh is the sweetest and I always leave her studio in a good mood! After that I’d grab a smoothie from Juicin’ Jar downtown, and head to a tattoo appointment with Glenn Underwood, owner of Rosewood Studio. It’s been too long and I can’t wait to see their new location! Later on I’d meet a friend for a bike ride and dinner (thanks to Covid-19, the road bike I just “had to have” is getting some serious miles!). My dinner choice would definitely be Aroy Dee, I love their sushi and everyone there is so kind!

On The Future

I’d love to see Glens Falls start an annual half marathon/marathon race benefitting a good cause. This community has so many philanthropic, physically active people, so I think it could be a big success. Especially if there’s Common Roots beer offered at the finish line!

Thanks to The Queensbury Hotel for helping to make this series possible!

Have you been to the Park Patio at The Q yet this season?! We’ve loved seeing the patio filled (safely and socially distanced, of course!) with folks enjoying breakfast while out on our morning walks, and we can’t wait to get there for some pancakes ourselves! They’re serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner 7 days a week, and don’t miss the Park Patio Music Series - live music every Wednesday this summer from 4-8pm! Check out their awesome menus and make your plans here.

Thanks for supporting the businesses that support Glens Falls Living.

Back in the Day: The Park Theatre

‘Twas the afternoon before the night before Christmas 1911, and all through the house, eager Glens Falls theater goers clutched their souvenir sheet music copies of the “Park Theatre March,” newly composed for the grand opening by Albert L. Moquin.

“This march is one of the catchiest pieces of music ever played on a piano, and will surely find a place on the piano of every house,” The Post-Star predicted.

Mayor S.D. Kendrick said a few kind words at 2 p.m. Dec. 23, 1911, and the curtain opened for the debut program of first-run silent films, illustrated sing-along reels, and live entertainment, including Richard Cole and a colleague singing a duet, “Silver Threads Among the Gold,” written by lyricist Eben Eugene Rexford, a Johnsburg native.

Earl Benedict led a four-piece orchestra of violin, piano, saxophone and drums.

Vaudeville acts, booked through the United Family Time Circuit, joined the regular lineup two days later.

Among the acts appearing at the theater in its first few weeks were magician Frederick Hurd, shadowgraph artist Frazee, and comedian Floretta Clark.

Capacity afternoon and evening crowds became the norm at the 800-seat theater.

“The Park Theatre is offering the best ten cents worth of amusement to be found in the city,” The Post-Star reported.

The dime admission – the equivalent of $2.70 in 2020 dollars – would be a bargain today, even when adjusted for inflation.

A six-lane bowling alley opened in the theater’s basement in mid-January, with four lanes for large pins and two lanes for candle and duck pins.

The owners intended to draw spectators, not just bowlers, by organizing three local bowling teams, the “Park Five,” the “Park Candlers,” and the “Champions” to compete with top teams visiting from out of town.

The Post-Star heralded the advent of The Park Theatre as not just an entertainment bonanza, but an economic development catalyst.

“There is no doubt that the new theatre will do much toward putting Park Street on a plane with the leading streets in the city.” 

The original owners, who sold the theater two years later, were all Park Street business men.

James and Fred Bellen owned a bottling works, Isaac Ginsburg a discount department store, and Joe Miller a restaurant.

The Park was the only motion picture theater operating in Glens Falls at the time.

The Empire Theatre on South Street was still booking only live stage shows at the time.

The former Wonderland Theatre had operated at 23 Ridge Street from February 1907 to October 1909, and there had been a couple of early temporary makeshift motion picture theaters in downtown.

New owners that purchased The Park Theatre in 1913 installed a pipe organ, which was improved with added features in 1916.

In 1919 the pipe organ was moved to the newer Rialto Theatre on Warren Street, as The Park switched its focus to just motion pictures.

The Rialto Corp. was operating both theaters at the time.

The Depression era economy and competition from newer motion picture theaters brought an end to the operation, but it would eventually have a second life as a theater more than eight decades later.

The Park Theatre closed temporarily in late 1932.

It re-opened in January 1933, showing second-run features, but closed permanently a few months later.

By that time, four other theaters were showing motion pictures downtown: The Rialto, Paramount, State and Empire.

The Glens Falls Post Co., publisher of The Post-Star and Glens Falls Times, purchased the theater building in 1937, and used it as a printing plant until the 1970s.

The building fell into disrepair over the years, and at one point was slated for demolition, but a community advocacy organization stopped it.

Glens Falls businesswoman Elizabeth Miller purchased the building in 2014, renovated and restored it to its original grandeur, and in 2018 opened The Park Theater, a performing arts center for music, dance, drama and films, with Doc’s Restaurant downstairs.

The grand opening, as in 1911, included a performance of the “Park Theatre March.”

This story was made possible by Doc’s Restaurant and The Park Theater.

Have you been back to Doc's yet to try out their new summer menu? Between the great food, the ambiance of the gorgeous patio (complete with summer blooms, string lights overhead, and the sounds of live music on Friday nights!), it’s the perfect summer night out. Too hot? The classic charm of the main restaurant inside the Park Theater never disappoints. Staying in? Take-out is available too! Book your table for this coming weekend here - Doc’s orders ;) 

Thanks for supporting the businesses that support Glens Falls Living!

MAURY THOMPSON

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 September 2020. See the trailer here. Read his full bio here.

The Weekender: July 3 - 5

Happy 4th of July weekend! While it’ll be a little different this year, we’re excited to make the most of it and hope you are too. We’ve got big plans for blueberry pie, drinks on the back porch, and maybe hanging out in the closet with our dog while he panics about the fireworks ;) Other than that, here’s what looks good:

Around Town: West Mountain opens for the summer this weekend! The aerial adventure park, mountain biking, and hiking sound like a blast, but the scenic chairlift ride and picnic package sound awfully nice on this hot day. Get the scoop here!

Back Roads: It’s blueberry picking season! We were psyched to see that Winney’s Blueberry Farm in Schuylerville is opening for the season this Saturday and we can smell the blueberry pie already. Grab their details here and stay tuned for a roundup of berry farms to visit within the next week or so - happy picking!

At the Lake: As with most events this year, the Lake George Land Conservancy’s Hike-A-Thon has decided to go virtual. Here’s the gist: get out for a hike on Sunday, July 5 - whether in your neighborhood or your favorite mountain trail - and share a photo on social with the hashtag #LGHikeAThon2020 and #HikeLakeGeorge. Check out this list of LGLC’s parks and preserves for some great hike ideas - happy trails!

In the Mountains: Have you ever hiked in to Camp Santanoni up in the Adirondacks? It’s one of the surviving Great Camps on the shore of Newcomb Lake and it is a beauty. It’s about a five mile walk along a carriage road from the parking lot to the Main Lodge on the lake, and this Sunday they’ll be offering special tours focused on the staff that made Santanoni a fabulous retreat back in the day - details here.

Enjoy the weekend and Happy 4th!
Bri + Tom

Hometown News: July 1

Back to School?

Now that local high school seniors have graduated, the focus has turned to the upcoming 2020-21 academic year.

What will school look like this fall?

Will classes start in September?

Or is it too early to say?

With COVID-19 cases rising in 26 states, the current coronavirus surge has increased anxiety and created more doubt about when — and if — school will start eight weeks from now.

Governor Andrew Cuomo told NBC’s Chuck Todd Sunday, “If this continues across the country, kids are going to be home for a long time.

“I’ll be honest with you. It's two months away," Gov. Cuomo said of the 2020-21 school year. “Anything can happen in two months. You look back two months and you see how many things have changed. I want to see what the infection rate is and what the disease is doing before we pull the trigger and make the decision.”

About 1% of the people tested in New York are testing positive, the Governor said.

“How does that number go up?” Cuomo asked. “Two ways. Lack of compliance – and I'm diligent about staying after New Yorkers and local governments that have to police it.

“Second, I'm now afraid of the spread coming from other states because we are one country and people travel, and I'm afraid the infection rate in the other states will come back to New York and raise that rate again.”

It’s already happening. In Chappaqua, 14 people have tested positive after members of two families who had been in Florida attended graduation ceremonies and parties and didn’t wear masks, the website LoHud.com reported.

So where does that leave us?

We reached out via email to Glens Falls City School Superintendent Paul Jenkins, asking to talk about what school may look like next fall. He politely declined an interview, but did say, “Basically, we are in a holding pattern. There are too many X factors that need to be decided at the state level, either by the Governor’s Office or by the State Education Department.” 

We then reached out to James Dexter, BOCES District Superintendent, who oversees 31 local school districts in Warren, Washington, Saratoga, Hamilton and Essex counties.

“I don’t have any answers,” Mr. Dexter told Glens Falls Living. “We anticipate getting the safety rules from the Governor’s Office at some point, and then the Board of Regents is meeting [in mid-July] and we expect they will have a number of regulations, so likely we’ll have some guidance on health and safety measures including transportation, and then we’ll get another set of guidance. 

“We’re hoping by mid-July we have at least some guidance, and then once we know the rules, we have six or seven work groups of superintendents and principals that will work regionally so there is commonality because districts share programs. And then I anticipate every district will have their own committees as well, working through August once we have information.”

Clearly it’s a very fluid situation.

“I do think we could have changing guidance,” he said. “So the initial plan is once we get the rules, then regionally we will work together to try to find the solutions that work best, and then each district would have its own plan. And it’s going to be a continuous loop as more guidance comes out.”

Will school start in early September?

“At this point, we’re certainly hoping that it entails bringing students back to school, but to what degree is still quite a mystery at this point.

“It certainly is our hope, but there are so many other factors. There are staff that have medical needs, students who have medical needs…there are so many things that are unknown.

“That would be our wish. I know the kids want to come back. It’s just a matter of what the guidance is and that will determine what we can do and what we’re not able to do.”

So much planning, so little time.

“It’s going to be a heck of a summer,” Mr. Dexter said. “We have to plan as if and hope we start in September and then adapt accordingly.”

Prospect Mountain Opens

Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway is now open seven days a week between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. 

To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, DEC is taking the following precautions:
    •    The shuttle will not operate;
    •    Picnicking will be prohibited, and the picnic pavilions will not be available to rent;
    •    Restrooms will remain closed; and
    •    View scopes at the pull-offs and on the summit have been dismantled. 

For more information on open facilities, visit DEC’s camping page. For information about campgrounds operated by the State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation visit the NYS Parks camping webpage. 

Now Hiring…

The Lake George business community is looking to fill more than 500 job openings, and has developed a website, LakeGeorgeisHiring.com, to facilitate hiring.

The site features open positions for all levels of experience, including cooks, housekeepers, front desk staff, bussers, food runners, waitstaff, bartenders, maintenance, security, marketing, delivery drivers and more.

Also, DEC is seeking seasonal campground staff with all levels of experience and skill sets, including supervisors, security, maintenance, and cleaning staff, and booth workers. If interested, please send an email to campinfo@dec.ny.gov.

Pay Your Glens Falls Water + Tax Bills Online!

The City of Glens Falls is now offering online payments for tax bills and water and sewer bills at https://www.cityofglensfalls.com/203/Online-Payments. 

“Residents can either use American Express, VISA, Mastercard, Discover or a checking account for payment,” said a press release. “Please note that there is a convenience fee involved when paying online. This fee is set and retained by the processing vendors enabling the transaction. The City of Glens Falls receives no portion of this convenience fee.”

Fees are: American Express, Visa, Mastercard and Discover Credit Charge – 2.85% plus $0.40. E-Check - $2.95. 

Batter Up!

The Glens Falls Independents of the Independent Collegiate Baseball League opens play on Monday, July 6th at East Field in Glens Falls. The Independents host the Albany Athletics in a doubleheader, with first pitch at 5:30 pm. The season concludes the week of August 13 with all four teams aiming to complete a 30-game season. Game days are all doubleheader matchups on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. 

A press release said, “Per state guidance, the ICBL will allow participating players up to two family members per game in attendance. Both ICBL venues will offer sit-down outdoor dining options as well, in accordance with county health regulations…East Field is in the final stages of developing its dining options.”

The 2020 schedule, results and news can also be found on the ICBL Twitter feed @IndCollegiateBB in addition to Twitter feeds for @DutchAlbany, @AlbanyAthletics, @MohawksBaseball. 

The ICBL is the only collegiate-level league in the Greater Capital Region to operate this summer after the cancellations of several other local baseball leagues.

…and of course, COVID-19, County by County

In Warren, Washington and Saratoga counties, the coronavirus is at its lowest levels since the pandemic began.

In Warren County, less than a half-dozen new cases have been diagnosed in the last five weeks.

In Washington County, it’s a similar story: very few new cases reported and no Washington County residents hospitalized.

Saratoga County reports one person hospitalized as of Wednesday, with 24 active cases.

Until next time -
Gordon

GORDON WOODWORTH

A South Glens Falls native, Gordon Woodworth is a respected and well-connected voice of the community. As a journalist, he has covered the Glens Falls region for more than 20 years. Read his full bio here, and click here to follow along with him on Facebook - he’s always reporting!

My Glens Falls: Paul Bricoccoli Jr.

This week we’re catching up with Paul Bricoccoli Jr! You’ll recognize him from Glens Falls favorites Bullpen Tavern and Talk of the Town. He shares his version of a perfect day in and around the city, some great memories from childhood (anyone remember Burns Newsroom?!), the one thing he thinks downtown needs, and so much more…

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Paul Bricoccoli Jr. My beautiful wife is Johnna and we have 2 daughters, Sofie, 10 and Livia, 5. I own Talk Of The Town and The Bullpen with my 3 best friends from high school - Scott Endieveri, David Krogmann Jr. and Jason Krogmann. We opened our first Bullpen together in Lake George in 1994. We also have owned a Bullpen and The Horseshoe Inn in Saratoga in years past. 

On Social Distancing

This period of social distancing has been interesting to say the least. We kept our businesses open for takeout, but it has certainly been different. Our places are both iconic and extremely social places. We have customers who spend a lot of time at our places and they feel like family. It's always hugs and handshakes, so not seeing all our regulars has been pretty depressing.

Personally, my wife and daughters have been pretty happy to have me home a lot more than they are used to. I have always liked to drink beer, but during this crisis I feel like I've been drinking an inordinate amount and it shows on my waist! We did get a bunch of projects done and some serious cleaning in both our businesses. We replaced the rug at Talk Of The Town which is a big project and would require closing for a few days. Just doing takeout allowed us to do the work without closing. 

On Life in Glens Falls

I was born and raised in GF and graduated from GF High. My parents still live in the house I grew up in on Elizabeth St. It was a fantastic street to grow up on. Little traffic allowed for street hockey, football, kickball, skateboarding and bike riding very safely and constantly. I walked to school with my friends from K-12th grade. I went to college and graduated from the University of Buffalo. After college I lived a few different places. Two of my partners and I spent a year in West Palm Beach waiting tables and pretty much just having fun. We always wanted to end up back in this area so we moved back. In high school, we worked for Mayor Blais in Lake George at his arcade and remained and still are friends with him today. He actually suggested the spot where we opened our first Bullpen in LG, so we always like to give him some credit for our start and success. 

We have lived in our house on Dixon Rd for 19 years. The best thing about our neighborhood, without question, is Kensington Road Elementary School. I have been able to walk my oldest daughter to school just about every day in any kind of weather. It is undoubtedly my favorite part of the day and the most enjoyable conversations I get to have. I look forward to continuing this with my younger daughter when she starts Kindergarten this fall (hopefully). The school itself is filled with wonderful people. We are so fortunate to have such a great place for our kids to grow and learn. 

Some Glens Falls Favorites

My favorite thing about GF is the friendliness of the people. It drives my wife a little crazy, but I can have some of the most amazing (and lengthy) conversations getting gas, at the grocery store, at a Thunder game, wherever. I just love talking to people in our community from all walks of life.

A hidden gem would be the alleys in the Horicon/Lincoln/Coolidge neighborhoods. The blocks are separated behind the houses by these cool alleys. We loved riding our bikes through them as kids and as one of the Race Directors for the GF Urban Assault, I couldn't wait to make them part of our course. 

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

My perfect GF day... that's a hard one as I've had a lot of pretty cool days here. I'd start the day teaching a spin class at the YMCA (I've been doing that for 14 or so years). I could do a whole story on just the Y and what I think it means to our community. Next would be a stop at Stewart's for a coffee or maybe Sam's Diner for a breakfast sandwich from my friend Pete Brock. Then I’d cash up at both places and make sure everything is ready for the day. Grab the family and my dog Sugar and head into Cole's Woods or Rush Pond for a little walk in the woods. For lunch I'd let the kids pick. They love to stop at The Bullpen so my sister Aunt Pammie can make them something delicious or Talk Of The Town for grilled ham and cheese sandwiches. My youngest also loves The Silo. The past few summers would be a trip to Great Escape for a couple of hours with our season passes or maybe a little ride on our friend Buzzy's boat on Lake George. If the Yankees are playing a day game, catch the last couple innings with my dad and a couple beers. Drop the kids at my parents house, grab the bikes and the wife and head downtown. We've done takeout from Radici a few times and can't wait to have dinner there, seated at the bar. After dinner, we’d have a drink at any one of the fantastic spots downtown, Craft on 9, Downtown Social, Fenimore's at The Queensbury, and always a nightcap at Bullpen.

On the Past

Memories of Glens Falls would include my first haircut in a barbershop on Warren St by a guy named Johnny "Hottsie" Sommo. He was also a basketball referee. My father was a teacher and coach at GF High and in the winter he worked the scoreboard for basketball games. I got to go to every game and the gym seemed so loud and gigantic, I loved it! Another memory is Sunday trips to Burns Newsroom. I think it was in the space next to Farmacy. We'd go Sunday morning to get different newspapers and I would get a comic book or baseball cards.

on the Future

I guess that would be the one thing I'd love to see downtown is some sort of convenience/grocery store. Downtown living has exploded in recent years and I think some sort of market would be great. 

I guess to close, I am just so proud of what downtown has done in the last decade or so. All the work that has been poured into the buildings to give it a fantastic old school but cool look. The Wood Theater has been a huge addition, it is an amazing cultural attraction and the perfect size for downtown. Stores like Fountain Square Outfitters and Finders Keepers are not only great retail spots, they are run by wonderful people who have a genuine love for our downtown. I count my blessings everyday that I've been fortunate enough to stay in business for 25 years in my hometown with my best friends, have some success and help lead the revitalization of downtown.

Special thanks to The Julie Snyder Team - Howard Hanna Real Estate Services for helping to make this series possible!

For 15 years, Julie Snyder has been an experienced top producing Realtor serving buyers and sellers in and around the Glens Falls and greater Adirondack Region. She is recognized as being in the Top 5% of Realtors in the Nation.

Whether clients are selling their home, looking for a home for the very first time or they're seasoned investors, her team works tirelessly to accommodate their needs and exceed their expectations. The Team is incredibly well-versed in the area's housing market and always manages to find their clients those hidden gems. 

Speaking of gems, check out this charming Glens Falls home that went under contract in just days with multiple offers! Give Julie a call to help you navigate this HOT real estate market!

Thanks for supporting the businesses that support Glens Falls Living.

To Go: Siam Thai Sushi

One of the silver linings of this so called “pause” these last few months has been the opportunity to try dinner to go from new to us restaurants - one being Siam Thai! Spoiler alert - we loved it (so much so that we’ve already ordered a second time since this meal!). We chatted with General Manager Brian Kozelouzek to find out how they’ve adapted to this changing world - be sure to read to the end for your chance to win a $20 gift card to Siam Thai!

On Overcoming Challenges

Our greatest challenge since the beginning of the pandemic has been not knowing exactly what we should expect. It has made planning and preparing tricky, to say the least. It has been far from business as usual. With a staff reduced by 85 percent, a dinner service that typically goes from 3:30-9:30pm that is now a mad dash to finish orders that are similar in volume but all take place from 4:30-6:30, a much larger customer base with patrons who are not familiar with our menu, and the well founded fears many people have expressed has made this an unforgettable experience.

On Evolving

The average work day now barely resembles what it was prior to the pandemic. All but 2 hours of the day are really about prep work and setting ourselves up for success. In the past Siam Thai Sushi has always had a very strong to-go business, but it was a distant second to our polished casual dine-in experience. Now we’ve added curbside, a well coordinated time call system for orders placed in advance, and for a short time even delivery. We have had to make the entire process that we were already proud of even more efficient. Knowing our menu simply has not been enough, the staff has had to be knowledgeable enough to explain Thai and Japanese cuisine to patrons with no prior experience ordering these types of dishes.

On the Bright Side

This hasn’t been all bad, just different. The staff that stayed on during the pandemic has bonded and learned to work together seamlessly. They all work side by side almost every day from open to close and as a result they all respect each other’s commitment and ability in a way they never could have. We like to think we did a great job before this... now everyone is so sharp and accustomed to a work load we never thought we could or would need to handle. We are also grateful to have had the opportunity to share our food with members of the community who were new to the STS experience.

On the Future

We have learned the importance of being flexible and adapting. We are so impressed by the level of commitment of every restaurant in town. The bar has forever been raised by everyone out-doing each other and looking for a way to offer our community more. More safety, more speed, more convenience and more ... well, patience. Restaurants that can change their entire menu, staff and strategies at a moments notice will stick around.

Brian Kozelouzek, General Manager

Siam Thai Sushi
Website / Facebook
- Now open for indoor dining and take out -

Special thanks to Glen Street Associates for making this story possible.

Glen Street Associates develops, owns and manages multifamily, commercial, office, and hospitality properties in Warren, Washington, and Saratoga Counties. With an appreciation of the history of downtown Glens Falls, Peter Hoffman, along with his wife Suzanne, have restored several downtown buildings (like the one in which Siam Thai resides, for example!), adding the modern updates needed to create professional office space that is attracting tenants to the City. Check out their commercial and residential offerings here!

Thanks for supporting the businesses that support Glens Falls Living!

Enter to win a $20 gift card to Siam Thai Sushi!

Thank you for entering! The giveaway is now closed and the winner has been notified by email!

Golfing with Gordon: Glens Falls Country Club

Joseph Girard III has added golf to his considerable athletic repertoire, and I had the pleasure of hitting Glens Falls Country Club with the Syracuse University point guard last week.

His father, Joe Girard, Jr., joined us along with Matt Montesi, the owner of North Country Janitorial and Joe Jr.’s boss.

JG3 just started playing, but has caught the bug. He’s all in, and he’s got plenty of game. We all know he has world-class hand-eye coordination. We also know he’s hyper-competitive, never settling.

Those traits were in full view on this sunny late afternoon.

Many know the opening tee shot at GFCC is no picnic. You have to drive over a sliver of Round Pond, up a hill to a plateau that then takes you doglegging to the first green. The first hole is a beast, and has brought many a golfer to his or her knees. I’m among them.

So, a few nerves would be expected, right?

Well, JG3 has Girard ice-water careening through his veins. He’s played in front of 30,000 people at the Dome. He’s stared down the Duke Blue Devils at Cameron. He’s made the North Carolina Tarheels look silly. A little bomb over some water wasn’t about to bother him!

He stepped up and crushed a drive to the top of the hill, with a nice fade. In other words, perfect. You couldn’t place the ball in the better place. Oh, to be young and athletic again. I was once young, but never athletic, but you get the point.

I actually hit a decent drive as well, but was 50 yards behind JG3. 

Joe Girard, Jr., Joseph Girard III, Matt Montesi, and Gordon Woodworth

On the par-4 second hole, one of the great golf holes in the region, Joseph cranked up the bomb machine again, roping a missile to the middle of the fairway. He had 110 yards in to the elevated green, meaning he hit his drive 260 yards or so. Not too shabby.

His approach found the right bunker, and a problematic lie. No problem. He asked me how he should play the shot. I suggested he hit three inches behind the ball, follow through and let the sand bring the ball onto the green. Easy, right?

He settled over the ball and knocked it on the green like he was Tiger Woods. Ho hum.

Meanwhile, Matt was cruising along, carding three straight pars to open the round. For his first time out, he was very impressive. The former state swimming champion from Queensbury is no slouch in the athlete department, and it showed. He finished with a smooth 39, three-over par. Bravo, sir!

Joseph and I ran into some trouble on the par-5 fourth. I struggled on the green. Joseph struggled getting to the green. He finished with an 11, his number at Glens Falls and at Syracuse.

After the fifth hole, we visited with Wendy Cimo at The Well. She’s the best! And she’s clearly a JG3 fan! Who isn’t?

The next hole was an adventure. Joseph drove right, I popped mine up. After hitting to the crest of the hill, I helped JG3 find his ball, and we both found our way onto the green and salvaged bogeys.

Matt finished out the day with a brilliant birdie on #9, just missing a hole-in-one. That would have been a first! In the 15 years I’ve been writing this column, there has never been a hole in one!

Joe Girard Jr. finished with a very solid 46, I posted a 52 and JG3 came in with a 57. We went over the round during dinner in the dining room, and had a few laughs. 

Now Joseph is off to Syracuse, getting ready for what he hopes to be his sophomore season with the Orange.

I’ll keep working on my game, and we’ll tee it up again soon!

In the meantime, GO ORANGE!

GORDON WOODWORTH

A South Glens Falls native, Gordon Woodworth is a respected and well-connected voice of the community. As a journalist, he has covered the Glens Falls region for more than 20 years. Read his full bio here, and click here to follow along with him on Facebook - he’s always reporting!

The Weekender: June 26 - 28

Happy Thursday, neighbors! What’s doing this weekend? We’re putting together a raised bed so that we can get even more veggies and flowers planted - well, maybe. Just saw the rainy forecast! But hey, Friday looks beautiful, so back porch drinks are certainly in order - and hopefully a few of these:

Doc’s is Back: Another downtown fav is reopening this weekend! We love the patio at Doc’s and they’ll be open for outdoor dining on Friday and Saturday - with live music to boot! Have you been? They’re suggesting reservations - so grab your table here.

Around Town: Congrats are in order for our Glens Falls graduates! If you’re interested in cheering them on from afar - you know, virtually - Glens Falls City School will be live streaming Friday’s Diploma Ceremony at 9:30am and the Commencement Ceremony at 7:30pm on their Facebook page - here’s the link. Congrats to the Class of 2020!

Back Roads: You guessed it - another barn sale :) This time at one of our favorite Washington County spots - Gardenworks Farm. Here’s the scoop on the sale, and while you’re out that way, do yourself a favor and pop into R.S. Taylor just up the road for a beer. Actually, you may just find us sitting out there tomorrow afternoon ;)

On the Lake: Have you guys been watching Summer Rush on The Food Network? We’re hoping to catch up this weekend… Anyway, the show features The Foy Family and their three family restaurants in Bolton Landing - Cate’s Italian Garden, The Chateau on the Lake, and Diamond Point Grille. Hoping to take a ride up to try one (or all three!) sometime soon! If you go, check out a few more of our Bolton favorites here.

Have a great weekend!
Bri + Tom

A Mini Minne: Beautiful Replica of Lake George's Beloved Steamboat Minne-Ha-Ha

Like many people, Paul Fieman was fascinated with the Minne-Ha-Ha growing up. 

His family vacationed at Trout Lake every summer, and his mom and dad would bring Paul and his brother to Lake George Village to ride the classic Lake George Steamboat Company vessel.

Paul’s fascination with the Minne-Ha-Ha led him to build an intricate “O” scale model of the boat that has taken most of two years to build.

“I’m still working on some details like the railings,” he told Glens Falls Living. “Every railing I am building by hand. I’m very close to being done. Right before you called, I finished the railings in the paddlewheel by the back.”

The detailed model is 39 inches long, 16 inches high and almost nine inches wide. The real Minne-Ha-Ha is 137 feet long and 30 feet wide, he said.

“I did the drawing for it and that was in 1999, before the internet,” Paul said. “And I just never got around to building the actual model until October 2018.

“I was cleaning the garage. I build electric guitars, and I found the drawing that I did rolled up in a tube in a corner of the garage. The drawing wasn’t really accurate. I just had photos to go by. 

“When I went to do the model two years ago, most of my research was on the internet. I think I’ve watched every video of the Minne-Ha-Ha on YouTube just to get details, like how the smokestack looked or how the railings looked.

“Started the hull with pieces of maple that I had glued together and then I carved it to get the shape of the boat. The hull is hollow in the center, and that’s where the engine room and the boiler room are.

“Basically, it’s made out of maple. The railings are made out of different types of coffee stirrers that I found at Starbucks, believe it or not. The paddle wheel — my wife is a school teacher and she had some popsicle sticks for crafts — so I took those and I made the paddle wheel out of that.

“The top part of the boat, I drew onto pieces of maple and cut out the windows and the openings with my band saw. And then the inside walls and a lot of the decking is basswood, which is a type of wood commonly used in models.

“It’s all glued together with different types of glue. I used wood glue for the heavy pieces, the hull and the superstructure and the frame. The fine detail, like the railings and the frames and the windows, I probably have gone through 50 tubes of Superglue.”

Paul said he’s had several offers to buy the model, but he had another idea.

“My dream would be to have it displayed in Lake George, in a museum or somewhere up there,” he said. “I have had offers to sell it. I’m flattered by it, but I built this to show people. I’d rather have it where other people can see it.”

He said people can contact him through Facebook.

“I hope people enjoy this long after I’m gone,” he said.

GORDON WOODWORTH

A South Glens Falls native, Gordon Woodworth is a respected and well-connected voice of the community. As a journalist, he has covered the Glens Falls region for more than 20 years. Read his full bio here, and click here to follow along with him on Facebook - he’s always reporting!

Hometown News: June 24

This week in Hometown News, Gordon has the scoop on the reopening of a popular Glens Falls beach, the return of baseball to our little city, the latest from Common Roots and initial plans for their move, and lots more…

Grab Your Beach Towel…

Swimmers in Glens Falls will be able to enjoy a dip in the Hudson River at Haviland’s Cove beach on a limited basis starting Monday, June 29, 2020, Mayor Daniel Hall announced. The beach will open at noon on June 29 and will be open noon to 5 p.m. daily, weather permitting. Vehicle access to the park will be limited to 28 vehicles on a first-come, first-served basis from noon to 5 p.m. daily. Those visiting the park will be required to check in at the gate before being admitted to the park. The swimming area will be restricted to 75 people.

Guidelines for entry will be posted and all who enter the park must adhere to New York State Department of Health mandates for social distancing and wearing of facial coverings. Beach patrons should try to stay six feet apart from others and wear a mask covering nose and mouth when not in the water.

Blankets and/or towels on the beach must be spaced 10 feet apart. The number of swimmers on the beach or in the water at one time will be limited and the limit will be strictly enforced.

Swimming is prohibited when lifeguards are not on duty. Violators face suspension of their park privileges.

For more info: 518-761-3867

Batter Up!

Baseball returns to Glens Falls! The Independent Collegiate Baseball League (ICBL) announces it will launch a four-team collegiate-level league this summer starting July 6 and playing through August 13. The franchises of the Glens Falls Independents, Albany Dutch, Albany Athletics and Amsterdam Mohawks have joined together to play a 30-game season. Teams will play three doubleheaders per week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays or Saturdays with all league games being played at Shuttleworth Park in Amsterdam and East Field in Glens Falls.

Whitehall’s Steve St. Claire will manage the Independents. For more info: IndependentCollegiateBB@gmail.com.

Community Rallies Around Pete Brock

Sam’s Diner owner Pete Brock, who tirelessly raises money for Operation Santa Claus, has been diagnosed with cancer, and faces months of difficult and expensive treatment. His family and friends have started a GoFundMe page to help with medical expenses. As of Tuesday morning, more than $27,000 had been raised.

His brother John wrote, “Roughly two months ago Peter was diagnosed with malignant melanoma that had spread…In an attempt to locate all affected areas, they put Peter through countless tests and scans. During a PET scan they located cancer in his nasal cavity. This cancer, squamous cell carcinoma of the nasopharyngeal, is thought to be unrelated to the melanoma. The melanoma had spread into his lymph nodes. After more tests, meetings and consultations, it was determined that the best course of action was to remove the tumor in his lymph nodes. The removal operation was completed June 16.

“Because the combination of cancers is so rare, the team of oncologists, surgeons and neurologists have decided the best course of action now is for Peter to undergo additional exams and tests at Albany Med. The team has recommended a series of very expensive and highly toxic treatments. These will include radiation, chemotherapy and immunotherapy, all of which will cost tens of thousands of dollars.

“Peter and his wife Lisa have some insurance to help pay for some of it. 20% will be left up to them to pay. While they have some savings for retirement, which they will use, it will not come close to covering it all.

“That is where we come in. During this epic fight, I want to provide as much comfort to Peter as I can. He is going to be very sick throughout chemo and radiation. Their home is in need of a cooling system and those medical bills just keep adding up.

“Peter is an amazing man. He raises money each year for Operation Santa Claus. He hosts dinners at his small diner on Dix Ave in Glens Falls and asks for donations every single day; last year he helped raise $61,500. Peter donates every cent to put coats, hats and mittens on thousands of area children.”

To donate, click here.

On that note, Coach’s Corner on Saratoga Ave. in South Glens Falls will be holding a benefit spaghetti dinner for Pete Brock and his family on Monday, June 29, from 4 to 8 p.m. For more info: 518-741-6221.

Finish Line is In Sight for Common Roots

Common Roots is in the homestretch of their move from the Temporary Taproom to their new building back at 58 Saratoga Ave in South Glens Falls. Their initial plan will be to offer to-go beer with limited outdoor draft service starting in early July - date TBD.  Online ordering for pick-up and home delivery will be continuing indefinitely. Keep an eye on their website for the latest.

What’s Reopening and What’s Not

Gov. Andrew Cuomo says youth soccer can restart early next month. The Governor said “low-risk” athletics — baseball, softball, gymnastics, field hockey, cross country and crew — may resume starting July 6 in areas that are in Phase Three of the state’s reopening plan amid the coronavirus. That includes the Glens Falls region. Also added to the list were water polo, paintball, non-contact lacrosse, swimming and all racket games, among others.

As Phase 4 approaches, New York State has clarified some re-opening policies, and determined that malls, gyms and movie theaters are not yet included among the businesses that can re-open when Phase 4 begins on July 1st. Dates for resumption of these businesses are still to be determined. More info here.

More Campgrounds and Parks Reopen

The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation announced more Region 5 campgrounds and parks, including Prospect Mountain, will be open as of July 1st. Campgrounds to open next week include Glen Island, Hearthstone, Rogers Rock, Paradise Lake, Ausable Point, Beaverkill, Brown Tract Pond, Caroga Lake, Crown Point, Devil’s Tombstone, Eighth Lake, Fish Creek Pond, Forket Lake, and Frontier Town. 

“Only existing reservations will be honored at this time. Reservations and walk-in camping are not being accepted at this time,” DEC says. “As part of the COVID-19 guidelines, and for the courtesy of other visitors and our staff, face masks must be worn when outside your campsite area at any place where social distancing cannot be maintained. All patrons shall practice social distancing.

“Only registered campers will be allowed in campground areas, no day visitors will be permitted. In order to assist with enhanced cleaning, Check-in time is now 2pm and Check-out time is 10am.”

For more info: www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/camping.htm

Visitors Welcome…

Glens Falls Hospital has announced that visitation restrictions have been relaxed. Glens Falls Hospital will allow one visitor age 18 years or older to visit a patient between 4 pm and 8 pm each day. A patient may have only one visitor on a particular day, but a different single visitor will be allowed on the next day. Visitors must stay in the patient room for the duration of their visit. All visitors to inpatients must enter at the West Entrance. Visitors should arrive at the hospital with a mask or face covering which must be worn throughout the visit.

“All visitors will be screened for temperature and respiratory symptoms.  In accordance with DOH guidelines and current hospital policy, all visitors will be entered into our electronic visitor management system, and they must share a verifiable telephone number in case there is a need for future contact tracing.  This is now required of all hospitals who choose to allow visitors.

“Patients arriving for outpatient procedures or surgeries at the hospital may be accompanied by a companion and that companion may remain with the patient through the admission process.  They may return to join the patient for the discharge process.  Visitors may not be present during procedures or in the recovery room except for pediatric patients, childbirth, and patients with an intellectual, developmental, or other cognitive disability.

“Visitation is also expanded to include the Emergency Department where one unique visitor may accompany the patient during their stay.”

For more info: glensfallshospital.org

Another Cancellation…

The long-anticipated reunion of Dr. Gator’s Medicine Show has been cancelled. It was to have happened on Sept. 19 in Heritage Hall at Cool Insuring Arena in Glens Falls. But because of previous band commitments, it will need to be rescheduled, organizer Mike Sullivan says. 

…and of course, COVID-19, County by County

As COVID-19 cases spike in the western and southern United States, here in the Glens Falls region the virus seems to be under control. In Warren, Washington and Saratoga counties, the presence of the coronavirus continues to decrease steadily.

In Warren County, one new case has been diagnosed in 27 days.

Washington County has had very few new cases reported in the last two weeks. No Washington County residents were hospitalized as of Wednesday

Saratoga County reports one person hospitalized as of Wednesday. 

GORDON WOODWORTH

A South Glens Falls native, Gordon Woodworth is a respected and well-connected voice of the community. As a journalist, he has covered the Glens Falls region for more than 20 years. Read his full bio here, and click here to follow along with him on Facebook - he’s always reporting!

My Glens Falls: Nikari Carota

This week, we caught up with the lovely Nikari of Brows by Nikari (located in one of our favorite downtown buildings - the pretty blue one on Warren Street!). She shares what brought her back to the area after living in Buffalo and Long Island, the one Glens Falls building that puts a smile on her face every time she drives by, and of course, a bit more about her passion for good brows ;)

Tell us about yourself!

Hi there! Nikari Carota is my name & brows are my game ;) I own Brows by Nikari located in downtown Glens Falls just around Centennial Circle on Warren Street. Brows by Nikari is a brow only studio catering from waxing & tinting all the way to semi-permanent makeup & brow lamination. Any service you can think of for your eyebrows I’m more than sure I offer it. Brows are my expertise. I love getting to know each and every one of my clients on a personal level. I love that I can become friends with them and that they keep returning and recommending me. My clients are truly amazing people & for that I cannot give them enough thanks in the world.  

I’m a little quiet & introverted unless I feel comfortable around you or get to know—so don’t let my faces scare you away! When I get to know you, I won’t stop talking. I’m a Jesus loving, laid back, laughing & adventurous spirit. Right now, I live my with mom, little brother & little sister.

On Life in Glens Falls

I grew up in Queensbury. My great grandparents live in the 518, my grandparents live in the 518 and my mom lives in the 518. I’ve lived in Queensbury my whole life. After graduation I went away to college in Buffalo. When I graduated from Buffalo, I moved to Long Island for a little bit. I decided I missed home and returned to open my brow studio in Glens Falls. I’ve always loved and have had a passion for eyebrows. I’ve had my eyebrows botched a few times (I mean who hasn’t) so opening up this studio was something that was near and dear to my heart. The small town keeps me grounded. The air, the trees, mountains, scenery and surroundings. I’ve moved a few times and always end up back where I started…truly home. 

As far as housing goes: SURPRISE- My boyfriend and I are in the process of closing on a fixer upper (we haven’t told many people except for close friends/family)! Family friends of ours buy houses, fix them up and sell them. We were lucky to enough to snag one before it went on the market! It’s a cute little house on the border of Queensbury & Lake George with a nice amount of land in the backyard. After we’re married we plan to live in it for a few years with our puppy Neko and then potentially turn it into an Airbnb since it’s a perfect location close to everything. OR we might add on and keep it. We’re not sure, but we’ll see!

I absolutely love the ambiance of downtown Glens Falls at night. I love the string lights and walking the strip of downtown. I wish more people knew the core of Glens Falls. The community is business-based, meaning community owned. There aren’t a lot of franchise stores which means every self-owned business is the core and heart of the community. So, I truly believe that by exploring the community you will find hidden gems that are important to each person.

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

Oooh, perfect day? Hmm, there are so many scenarios that would be ideal. I think it’s hard to pinpoint, but just spending intentional time with mom/family or a few friends is my perfect day. As for favorite spots, a few that I like to visit (in no particular order) are: Siam Thai, Kelly’s Roots, Minky Mink, Studio Bari, Ketty Nails, Elixir + Facial Lounge, Spektor Coffee, Spot Coffee (also I don’t drink coffee but pick other things on the menu), Mikado, Zou, and Downtown Social. I’m sure there are a few more but these are just the ones that popped into my head!

On the Past

I loved going to the YMCA as a kid. My mom would always take me there while she did her classes. I grew up loving to be there. I took so many classes, did so many camps and was so involved with the YMCA. As the years went on and I was old enough to work out in the workout room I would go with my mom. My school friends and I would all get dropped off there to “workout” but all we did was hang out in the racquetball courts. Every time I drive by that place, it puts a little smile on my face because I had so many fond memories from my childhood there. 

On the Future

Okay, I would definitely love a Plum Dandy situation like in Saratoga. I love frozen yogurt and think something like that would do so well in the heart of downtown Glens Falls & would especially compliment all the restaurants. Also, a Chick-fil-A would be wonderful. 

This week’s My Glens Falls was made possible by Morgan & Co. Restaurant.

Nothing says summer in Glens Falls like an evening enjoying a cocktail and a delicious meal on the porch or patio at Morgan and Company! Indoor and outdoor seating is now available, along with takeout options (and did you know they offer catering, too?!). Live music on the patio starts back up this week as well, with Max McDonnell on Tuesdays and Mark Tolstrup on Thursdays. Make your reservation by clicking here - cheers!

Thanks for supporting the businesses that support Glens Falls Living!

The Weekender: June 19-21

Happy weekend and Happy Father’s Day! How was your week? We’ve been soaking up the summer weather and enjoying puttering around in our makeshift backyard garden - we clipped our first little zinnia bouquet last night and we’re seeing a few tomatoes start to take shape - it’s the summer of the garden, for sure. Are you guys spending lots of time in the yard too?

It’s going to be a hot one this weekend - here’s what’s on our radar:

At Restaurants - INSIDE!: Who knew that would be something we’d ever be typing with excitement?! That’s right friends, you can now enjoy indoor dining at your favorite restaurants. Though with this weather, we’re pretty sure everyone will still be lining up for patio dining! Where are you headed this weekend?

Strawberry Picking: ‘Tis the season! The perfect socially distanced activity with the reward of a perfect summer dessert! We’ve heard of two strawberry farms open for picking - Ariel’s Farm in Gansevoort and Hand Melon Farm in Greenwich. Any others? The big question now - strawberry shortcake or strawberry rhubarb pie?

Barn Sales: Oh, how we’ve missed our afternoons out treasure hunting at antique sales! Here’s one in Hudson Falls (Friday only) that you won’t want to miss (we went to the early bird sale today and it was packed with great finds!).

For Dad, Of Course: Here are just a few ideas from local shops that we stumbled across while perusing Instagram:

• A few cans of their favorite cold beverage from Common Roots or Mean Max, or a bottle of the good stuff from Springbrook Hollow Distillery

• All things outdoors from Fountain Square Outfitters

• A quirky card from Rude Betty, with a thoughtful handwritten note inside

• The coolest ADK swag from Pure Adirondacks

• A round of golf at his favorite local course (here’s a recent recommendation from Gordon)

• A gift card to any of our amazing downtown restaurants

Enjoy your weekend!
Bri + Tom