This week we caught up with Jeremiah and Emily Lewis! New to town, they share what drew them to Glens Falls, a bit about their work (Jeremiah is a filmmaker and Emily is a natural science illustrator and animator), their favorites around the city so far, and more…
Tell us about yourself!
Jeremiah: I’m Jeremiah Lewis. I’m a web developer and screenwriter. My passion is writing horror movies, and I’m lucky that I’ve been able to write a few horror short films that have gotten produced!
Emily: I’m Emily Meredith Lewis and I’m a Natural Science Illustrator and Animator and Library Clerk at Crandall Public Library. We have two dogs named Cider and Miso, and they are siblings we adopted from a rescue in Chicago.
On Life In and Around Glens Falls
Jeremiah: We were drawn to Glens Falls primarily so I could be closer to my producing partner (local filmmaker and business owner Cameron Gallagher). We didn’t have a family connection to the area, though we’ve always been drawn to areas in New York such as the Hudson Valley. We’ve only been here about nine months but it’s been a great change of pace from the last few places we’ve lived.
Emily: I’ve been enjoying learning about all the native flora and fauna, both in our neighborhood and the trails at the countless nature preserves. I’m in my final studio for my natural science illustration certificate at RISD CE. For that project, I’m focused on late winter/early spring botanicals and (fingers crossed) their pollinators. A lot of my spare time right now is hitting trails in search of subjects and inspiration. I grew up in the Appalachian region of Virginia. After living in three major cities and three mid-size cities, we both appreciate the sounds of birds and insects over constant sirens.
Jeremiah: I have really enjoyed being able to collaborate directly on filmmaking projects. I first met Cameron when Emily and I were living in Providence, through a project called The Rickety Man, which eventually was made into an award-winning film. Living in Glens Falls gives us the chance to collaborate in person, and it has made things like spitballing story ideas, working out pre-production logistics and actually being on set for filming a much more rewarding experience. We’ve already filmed two shorts and have several other projects in the works, and hopefully you’ll see something we’ve made playing at the local theater before long! And if anyone reading this wants to finance our next film projects, don’t hesitate to reach out!
On Glens Falls Neighborhoods
Emily: We currently rent, but we’re looking to buy a house, if only the market will cooperate! Our neighborhood has been really great, especially for walking our dogs and getting a ton of exercise. We love seeing the beautiful houses on all the streets we walk and have even begun to meet people on our walks (when the temperatures aren’t sub-freezing!).
Some Glens Falls Favorites
Jeremiah: Our favorite thing about Glens Falls is its proximity to so much nature and the small-town vibe it gives (while still having options for art, shopping, entertainment, etc.). Emily is making her way through all the nature preserves in the area: Meadowbrook Preserve, Hudson Pointe Nature Preserve, Cole’s Woods, etc. The amount of places and trails to explore in the area is astounding!
One place that probably deserves more recognition for its opportunities for local entrepreneurs is WorkSmart. Located in a restored historic bank, it’s a collaborative work space that’s inclusive, safe, quiet, and offers independent business owners and office workers the chance to bond with fellow go-getters while maximizing your productivity in a conducive setting. It’s the perfect place to get things done while connecting with some amazing people (not a sales pitch, we promise!).
A Perfect Glens Falls Day
Emily: On Saturdays we usually make a trip to the Farmers Market (it’s a weekly staple in the warmer months), then coffee from Kru or breakfast or lunch from Rockhill Bakery and Cafe (try their bread or their Reuben–it’s really tasty!). If the weather is nice we take a long walk with our dogs around our neighborhood, Crandall Park, or the Canal. We love popping into the library and exploring The Shirt Factory (so many fantastic shops and artist spaces) if we have a more leisurely day. We love The Weekender and if something catches our eye for that weekend, we will try and work it in. We also cook a lot at home, but we have gone out to Mint, farmacy, or we will do take-away from Aroy Dee.
On the Past
Jeremiah: Unfortunately, we don’t have any old memories since we’re recent transplants, but we love all the new memories we are making. LARAC’s Arts Festival, picking berries at Ariel’s Farm, The Balloon Festival, Thursday Market & Food Truck Corral at The Shirt Factory, and playing putt-putt up at Lake George, to name a few.
You know what is cool, though? For the first time in a long time we actually sat out on our porch and handed out candy to trick-or-treaters this last Halloween — that was a lot of fun and a reminder of what it’s like to live in a community where you know your neighbors and people can enjoy being out to celebrate something fun and spooky.
Glens Falls is shaping up to be the place where we make these memories and new traditions.
On the Future
Jeremiah: Vegan food has come a long way, and there’s plenty of opportunity for an enterprising restauranteur to open a vegan or vegetarian place that people can enjoy. One of our down-the-road dreams is to open a revival movie theater or space that plays double features of old movies.
Emily: I would also love for there to be a small art supply shop. The closest shop that carries my favorite colored pencils is in Schenectady!
We’re open to adventures, and we’re excited for what Glens Falls has in store for us in the coming months and years.