Road Trip: Bennington, VT

Have you been to Bennington lately? Filled with history, charm, covered bridges, fantastic restaurants, beautifully curated shops - and all just over an hour from our driveway in Glens Falls. And with a downtown revitalization project just beginning with the historic Putnam Block, it’s sure to become even more vibrant. If you’re looking for a Sunday drive this weekend, read on for some favorites from our recent trip:

 

 

EAT + DRINK

 

 

Harvest Brewing: Tucked into a brick storefront downtown, we loved the atmosphere at Harvest Brewing both inside and out. On this sunny day, the picnic tables, colorful umbrellas and lights strung up overhead made this a perfect place to enjoy a meal. On the menu for our late lunch? Well, we had to try the coffee and beer, of course (as the sign out front suggests!), as well as fresh and delicious sandwiches and avocado toast. We hear they just started selling cans of their craft beer, too!

 

 

The Tap House at Catamount Glass: We’d heard such great things about The Tap House and couldn’t wait to try it ourselves. With a casual and artistic vibe, it was the perfect spot to grab a drink and some delicious comfort food to cap off our day. With a cozy patio surrounded by late summer blooms and lights twinkling overhead, we’re guessing this is a Bennington favorite for warm weather date nights. Inside, we loved the exposed brick, friendly staff, and fun conversation with other guests. Oh, and the fries! :)

 

 

The Village Chocolate Shoppe: The smell of chocolate will lure you in and once inside, you’ll want one of everything. We left with a couple of their best sellers, the Death by Chocolate Bars, and we couldn’t resist the maple creams - so good! The perfect place to satisfy your sweet tooth while you’re in town, for sure.

On our list for next time: While we’ve had drinks at Madison Brewing Company, we can’t wait to grab a meal next time, and we’re looking forward to checking out The Miller’s Toll Dinner Club for their cocktails and rotating seasonal menu!

SEE + DO

 

 

Stroll Old Bennington: A stretch of beautiful historic homes line the street starting with the photogenic Old First Church and cemetery (and fun fact: Robert Frost is buried here). From there, you can meander up the hill to the Bennington Battle Monument, where you’ll want to take the elevator up to the top for gorgeous views of the hills and valleys of Vermont, New York, and Massachusetts - especially with the colors this time of year!

 

 

Covered Bridges: If you’re a covered bridge lover, this is your town - there are five within striking distance of Bennington! Here is a great overview on all five, but you’ll definitely want to pay a visit to our favorite - the Henry Bridge. It’s tucked away on a back road with the perfect perch for a picnic, or just taking in the view.

 

 

The Mile-Around Woods: It wouldn’t be a trip to Vermont without finding some open space to roam, and The Mile-Around Woods in North Bennington turned out to be the perfect place for an autumn stroll. Located just past The Park McCullough House (which is worth a visit too, by the way!), the preserve is home to carriage road trails and on this sunny day, a group of gorgeous horses grazing in the lower pasture.

 

 

Bennington Museum: With the largest collection of Grandma Moses paintings in the world, it’s easy to see why many visitors make the trip to Bennington for the Museum alone. They also have a fantastic collection representing life in Early Vermont, an amazing Bennington Pottery Gallery, and Tom’s personal favorite - a custom Martin Wasp luxury automobile.

On our list for next time: Hemmings Motor News (they have their headquarters in Bennington complete with a Car Lover’s Store, old fashioned Sunoco station, and vehicle display!).

SHOP

 

 

Catbird Studio: A most beautifully curated shop, if you’re looking for a head start on holiday shopping - this is your place. A thoughtful variety of gift items, home decor, stationery and fine papers, we’ve loved popping into Catbird on previous trips to Bennington as well - there’s always something new!

 

 

Bennington Potters: One of each, please! We’re sure you’ll be as smitten with Bennington Potters as we were. A gorgeous collection of stoneware pottery, made right onsite in Bennington (don't leave without taking a peek into the studio to see how each piece is made!). With so many glazes and styles to choose from, it’s hard to pick a favorite, but we’ve got our eye on a pitcher in the classic Morning Glory Blue. A must while in Bennington.

 

 

Armstrong Farm: The sweetest roadside pumpkin stand, complete with red Radio Flyer wagons - and mini pumpkins that spell out Vermont, no less! If you go, be sure to pop in to the barn for some of their maple syrup, too - and hurry - they close for the season on October 31st!

 

 

The Apple Barn: A must, especially in the fall, we couldn’t get enough of their mini-cider donuts. The barn is stocked with all of the season’s essentials - pumpkins, gourds, apples, cider, baked goods, and all of the Vermont maple syrup you could want. If you go, grab two boxes of the mini-cider donuts - they’ll go fast! :)

 

 

Fiddlehead: A bank at one time, Fiddlehead is located in a historic marble building downtown with beautifully preserved architecture (and the vault!), we loved browsing the curated gallery at Fiddlehead. With an eclectic mix of paintings, pottery, jewelry (and so much more!), they definitely have something for everyone - and we love that everything is handmade by artisans across North America.

 

 

Antiques: What’s a road trip without a stop or two (or three!) to browse an antique shop? Luckily there are three in Bennington, and fair warning - you could probably spend a full day just browsing for treasures! Don’t miss the Antique Center at Camelot Village, Green Mountain Antiques, and Owl’s Nest.

On our list for next time: Bennington Bookshop (who doesn’t love a good independent book store?!) and Bringing you Vermont Country Store (and cafe!).

STAY

 

 

Four Chimneys Inn: The most beautiful inn tucked behind an old stone wall, the Four Chimneys is a Bennington gem. With a stately white exterior, the four namesake chimneys, and the expansive lawn and lovely gardens, it’s no wonder it was chosen as this year’s best Vermont Bed and Breakfast by Yankee Magazine. From the lovely innkeepers who make you feel right at home, to the beautifully decorated rooms (each is unique!), to the delicious breakfast in the morning, you’ll definitely want to add the Four Chimneys to your list if you decide to extend your day trip to an overnight.

On our list for next time: The Henry House looks like the perfect place for a group or an event (and you can’t beat that view of a quintessential Vermont covered bridge right across the street!).

 

 

This post was brought to you by Vermont Begins Here. Thank you for supporting the organizations and businesses that support Glens Falls Living.

P.S. See more of our Road Trip series here.

The Weekender: October 25 - 27

Happy weekend to you! We did a little double take as we looked at the calendar - Halloween definitely snuck up on us this year, and while it’s not ’til next Thursday, we were happy to see some fun Halloween events on the calendar this Saturday and Sunday. We’ll be stocking up on candy for the trick-or-treaters this weekend, and here’s what else is going on:

 

Have a great weekend!
Bri + Tom

 

My Glens Falls: John Marcantonio

This week we’re catching up with John Marcantonio. You might recognize John from his role with Glens Falls National Bank, from his days with the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce, or his dedicated volunteerism locally. Read on to learn more about John’s ties to the city, a little known fact about him, and a cause near and dear to his heart.

 

 

Tell us about yourself!

My name is John Marcantonio and I am a Business Development Officer for Glens Falls National Bank and volunteer for the Alzheimer's Association. A little known fact about me is that last year I became an Adirondack 46er which I’m extremely proud of. I am a lifelong resident of the Glens Falls region and love that my son is growing up in the place I call home. My son is an athlete in baseball and hockey which translates to me being a coach in those sports. I love being involved and making a difference in the lives of others. 

On Life in Glens Falls

Growing up in South Glens Falls was a great experience. When I was a kid, I loved all of the local attractions but didn't appreciate all that we have. I was able to attend a great college locally at SUNY Adirondack and then went on to SUNY Utica. After college, I couldn't wait to see what the world had to offer and moved to Syracuse to further my career. After a few years in Syracuse, I realized what a special place Glens Falls is and moved home. I bought a two family house on Ridge Street when I was 25 and loved fixing that house up with my Dad and friends. I enjoyed living in downtown Glens Falls and all that it had to offer within walking distance. This is a very special place that allows us the opportunity to enjoy world class vacation destinations and still have that small town living. I couldn't imagine a better community to raise my son. My wife Shelly and I bought the house I grew up in when my Dad passed away 11 years ago and I built an addition and remodeled to make it our own. 

My family is from Glens Falls, my Mom was an RN at Glens Falls Hospital for decades and helped care for many families in this community. My Dad was a famous semi-pro baseball player for the Glens Falls Doblers where he enjoyed playing with his brothers and friends. I love running into folks in town that share their stories about my parents. That is the charm of small town living.   

The amazing thing about this community is the philanthropic spirit. Whether big or small, the way that this community rallies together is amazing. We have all witnessed the power of the South High Marathon Dance and what an amazing opportunity it is to educate our youth on the impact they can have to make the world a better place.  

Some Glens Falls Favorites

My favorite thing about Glens Falls is watching the city constantly evolve. This is a city on the rise. The dining options that we have for a small town are incredible. I love going to the Bullpen, as a young guy it was one of the best bars to hang out in, but now the little known secret...and this might make it harder for me to get in…the food that Pam and her staff serve for lunch and dinner is incredible. To watch and be a part of the redevelopment of all of the old buildings into thriving businesses in downtown is awesome!

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

A great day here for me would include getting a coffee at SPOT and then heading to Crandall Library to grab a few books for my son. Then I’d do a quick hike up Sleeping Beauty, dinner at Gourmet Café and then an Adirondack Thunder hockey game.

On a Personal Note

The reason that I am so passionate about Glens Falls is a very personal one. I was blessed to work at the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce for five years. During that time I met a lot of great people that make this community special and I also lived through a personal tragedy. My Mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease nine years ago. She was a resident of Cronin High Rise at the time, some of you will remember the little hunched over lady that walked the streets of downtown for years (that was my Mom). I had the pleasure of working downtown and knowing all of the business owners, and so many of them helped me keep an eye on my Mom and let her live independently for as long as possible. Eventually her condition worsened and she moved to a memory care unit at The Landing in Queensbury. Alzheimer's eventually took her memory and then her life. As her primary caregiver, that journey with Alzheimer's was devastating for me and my family but it also led to inspiration. I got involved in the Walk to End Alzheimer's and soon after was nominated to be Co-Chair of the committee. I am so proud to report that in the last four years that event has become one of the top fundraisers in the Capital Region. Last year we had over 1,000 walkers and raised over $165,000. The money raised goes to fund research to make sure that future generations will have treatment and cure, and also funds caregiver support in our community for those that are diagnosed with dementia and Alzheimer's. Please join us on October 26th at SUNY Adirondack to Walk to End Alzheimer's. Here’s a link for more information.

On the Future

If I could wave a magic wand and change anything about Glens Falls what would it be? Nothing! We live in a geographically superior place that offers everything that you could want. Whatever draws you to this region: mountains, lakes, the horses at Saratoga or something else, you will want to stay or come back because of the wonderful people who live here.

 

 

Thanks John!

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

The Weekender: October 18-20

Hope you’ve had a great week! We made it through yesterday’s dreary weather and it looks like there’s three nice days on the horizon this weekend and lots going on - here’s what’s doin’:

 

 

 

 

Hope you have a great weekend!
Bri + Tom

Hockey Town: Casey Pierro-Zabotel

Ahh, October. When Hometown USA transforms into Hockey Town once again. When downtown comes alive in a fresh new way. When dinners out turn into dinner and a game (and maybe dinner, a game, and celebratory drinks after the game). We’re psyched for the Adirondack Thunder’s new season, and what better way to start it off than with a new series on GFL - Hockey Town - and what better way to start said new series than with the newly signed (and two time Kelly Cup Champion) - Casey Pierro-Zabotel (you can call him Zabby). Read on to find out what inspired him to play hockey, his favorite moments on the ice, and what he’s looking forward to this season.

 

Casey Pierro-Zabotel (Photo: Andy Camp)

 

Tell us a bit about yourself! Where are you from and how are you settling in to Glens Falls?

My wife Levi and I have been married for 10 years now. We have two children - our son Lane is 10 and our daughter Collins is three. My wife and I are both from the same town called Kamloops in British Columbia, Canada. It's been about a month and it's been really good. Our family is settling in well and we've had the chance to explore around town and it's really nice. We have really enjoyed Glens Falls, and also went to the Great Escape with the family, and a couple trips to Lake George. The people are really friendly here, especially the fans.

 

(Photo: Andy Camp)

 

ON THE PAST

What inspired you to play hockey?

I started playing hockey because of my parents. They got me started at age 3, so I really had no choice but to play. My father played junior hockey and I was always at the rink with him - he’s the one that got me started, coached me first, and pushed me to play all the time.

Favorite hockey player / team?

My favorite hockey player is Joe Sakic - he’s an elite goal scorer, and he’s on my favorite team (the Colorado Avalanche), and also from British Columbia near where I live.

 

(Photo: Andy Camp)

ON THE ICE

What do you love the most about being out on the ice? 

I love competing every day for a chance to win - winning is the reason I love to play hockey.

What has been a favorite moment of your career so far?

My favorite hockey moment so far is winning back to back Kelly Cups - it took me 7 years to win the first one so that was an amazing feeling.

You've led the league in scoring... what's it feel like to score a goal? 

It's amazing, it’s one of the best things about hockey. Everyone wants to score a goal and of course help the team win. And sometimes the opportunities may not come by that easily. Some games, you may not even get a shot on net, then the next it happens all at once. It's a pretty cool feeling to celebrate with your teammates when the fans are going crazy around you. 

Any superstitions or regular routines prior to game time?

No superstitions, but my favorite thing to do before a game is play soccer with the guys - it’s a nice way to get loose prior to the intensity of getting out onto the ice.

 

 

(Photo: Andy Camp)

 

ON THE UPCOMING SEASON

What made you decide to come to Glens Falls?

We decided to come to Glens Falls because we heard so many great things from friends and guys on the team.

We're excited to welcome you and the team on opening night...any extra adrenaline pumping before a home game? 

The first home game of the year is always the best when the fans are all screaming and excited - it gives me a little more energy hearing that. 

Looks like we've got an impressive roster. What are you most excited about in the upcoming season? 

I’m most excited about this team we have - it’s a really well balanced team and should be a real fun year.

ON THE NEXT GENERATION

Any advice you'd be willing to share for up-and coming players with dreams of playing professionally? 

The advice I would give to young kids is to work hard every day in practices and games. Even if you’re not playing, stay at it and most importantly, have fun and just enjoy it.

 

Casey Pierro-Zabotel (Photo: Andy Camp)

 

Thanks Zabby! See you at the game on Saturday - Go Thunder!

 

P.S. If you’re thinking of heading to the game, grab tickets here, or snag an opening night four pack here (it includes four tickets, four souvenir cups, and a $20 gift card to Stewart’s!).

 

Sweet Ride: 1950 Chevy Pickup

We’re rolling along (pun intended) with our Sweet Ride series, and this week we’re chatting with Gary and Joy McCoola about their beautiful 1950 pickup truck. Read on for the scoop on how they came to own it, a little about it’s previous owners (the sweetest story - grab your tissues!), and hear about their favorite road trips.

 

 

Before we get into the details on your gorgeous truck, let’s chat a bit about the two of you!

I grew up in Edison, New Jersey and Joy grew up in Long Beach on Long Island. We met on the dance floor of a country-western bar in NYC when I was in college in 1981. I was attending NJIT in Newark - studying architecture. Joy was living in Manhattan and teaching. Between academic years at NJIT, I was working summer jobs in Colorado. It was there that I spent time sketching old vehicles and I came to appreciate the style of the 1947-55 Chevrolet trucks, what I consider to be "the classic American pickup truck". While finishing college, I worked in NYC and soon after moved to Durango, Colorado, where I also interned as an architect. Joy joined me there for a few years and after we married we moved to Glens Falls in 1985.

 

 

THE SPECS

Year, make, and model: 1950 Chevrolet 3800 Series, one-ton pickup truck with a 9-foot bed.

Mileage: 74,000 miles

Size engine: 216.5 ci "Thriftmaster" inline 6-cylinder rated at 29.4 SAE HP or 90 HP at 3400 RPM.

Automatic or stick: Four speed on the floor, though speed is a relative term. 1st is granny gear with top speed of about 3 MPH; in 4th gear it tops out at about 50 MPH so a comfortable highway cruising speed is about 47 MPH.

Approximate gas mileage: Maybe 12-15 MPG.

Years owned: 36 years.

Driven through all seasons or stored: I store it through the winter.

Favorite features: There is an opening in the front grill so that you can hand-crank the engine. The cab is ventilated by popping the cowl vent and driver's side vent. Manual choke and throttle on the dashboard;  pedal starter on the floor. Nine-foot bed so that you can load it with plywood and still have space for other stuff. Hard steering and slow driving, especially in granny gear. My truck is the antithesis of the current rage in hot rod trucks.

 

 

THE HISTORY

How did you come to own it?

While living in Durango in 1983, I attended numerous estate auctions looking for cool antiques. I missed the opportunity (had no money) to bid on an original, low-mileage 1949 1/2-ton Chevy pickup with a custom cab - visor, chrome grille, rear corner windows and radio.

At a subsequent ranch auction, another Chevy pickup was available - 68,000 miles and in original condition, though a bit weathered. I set my limit and was bidding against one other person. At the hammer, the other bidder had won and I spent the next hour or so kicking myself for not bidding higher. Later, the auctioneer came to me and said that the successful bidder had to withdraw his bid, and instead of going back to a public bid, he would accept an additional $50 offer.  No problem, I was the new owner of the truck with a price of $1,550.

Do you know much about its history or previous owners?  

The truck is from Bayfield, Colorado and I am the second owner. The estate auction where I purchased the truck was a working ranch for about 100 years. Every tool, appliance, piece of furniture, vehicle, etc. ever used there was retired to a barn instead of being discarded. Everything was being auctioned so that the owners could sell the ranch and move to a nursing home. This particular truck performed many ranch chores and was used by the family's son and wife to travel through New Mexico on their honeymoon. It had been fitted with Oak slat hoops over the bed and covered with a canvas top - much like a Conestoga wagon. I had the hoops in the truck and was told that the canvas top was in a barn somewhere, but I never found it. Weeks later, when I finally got the title, registration and insurance, I went to claim the truck. By that time everything at the ranch was gone, except for the pickup truck. The owner, an elderly woman, gave me the key. I climbed into the truck, turned the key, pulled the choke, hit the gas pedal few times, stepped on the starter pedal and it fired right up. As the truck warmed up, she walked over and gently kissed the left front fender - saying good-bye to the last of her family's belongings. Needless to say, I had tears in my eyes and that was the saddest drive I have ever taken despite my joy in having the truck.

 

 

THE REPAIRS

How about the repairs? Do you work on the truck yourself?

I do minor repairs and maintenance myself. After owning it for about 20 years, the northeast humidity had taken its toll on the worn paint and the surface of the truck was an even coat of rust. I decided to have it repainted so that it would last another 50 years. The truck is about 98% original metal with no bondo.  I replaced the tailgate and bed front and the floor of the bed only. The bed is Southern Yellow Pine with black paint finish as original. The truck has been restored as close as possible to original condition, except for the addition of a second rear tail light, rear directional lights, rear view mirror and an oil filter. The restoration was performed by Bob Adler of Stephentown, NY. He works almost exclusively on the Chevy "Advance-Design Era" trucks from 1947-55. He is a highly skilled painter, mechanic and engineer, and it was great to correspond with him throughout the restoration process. For instance, he hadn't worked on a truck manufactured in the Kansas plant before, so he was able to dissect how the painting sequence of the two-tone front grill in that factory differed from those painted in the east-coast factory.

Any must haves in the truck during road trips?

An adjustable wrench and a screwdriver are always in the glove box. They can fix just about anything that might come loose or need adjustment. The truck has never broken down or not started in 36 years!

 

 

THE RIDE

Your favorite local cruise? 

About every weekend, I make it a point to drive the truck. Most trips are to the trash transfer station, farmer's market, Lowes, Ace Hardware and Curtis Lumber. I feel obligated to use it as a work truck, so I have hauled beds full of stone, cow manure, fire wood, slate tiles, newspaper, trash and lumber. I look forward to any load that will dampen the stiff two-stage rear leaf springs.

And your favorite long distance road trip?

When Joy and I moved from Colorado to New York in 1985, we used the truck. It was still in original condition and had 4-foot high Oak stock racks around the bed. After a thorough inspection by a local mechanic we were road worthy. We loaded everything we owned at the time into the back of the truck and were ready for our 2,200 mile journey. Within the first two hours was our greatest obstacle: Wolf Creek Pass - a 7-percent grade for 10 miles topping out at about 11,000 foot elevation. With the truck in third gear, about 25 MPH, we crawled up the pass. The truck was spewing a bit a blue smoke, but was running well. Once at the top, I thought that we would stop for a break, but I knew that it was all downhill from there to New York and we motored on. We generally followed the old Lincoln Highway, US Route 30, which was one of the earliest transcontinental highways. With a cruising speed of 47 MPH, a single taillight, hand signaling for turns, and headlights equivalent to an old flashlight, we drove only during the day. We stopped frequently in the many small towns and enjoyed the slow ride. Over the course of the trip, an old Volkswagen bus passed us and they were clearly excited to have passed a vehicle other than a farm tractor. Our trip lasted six days and on the seventh day we rested.

 

 

The Advice

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

Look for a clean, running vehicle with no rust. Vehicles from the southwest are preserved by the dry climate and are not subjected to salted roads. I always look forward to western vacations so I can drive the back roads through small towns searching backyards and alleys for those vehicles waiting to be rescued.

 

Thanks Gary and Joy!

P.S. See more from our Sweet Ride series here.

 

My Glens Falls: Tabitha Burton

This week we’re chatting with Tabitha Burton, who will be a familiar face if you’ve been to the Adirondack Theatre Festival or Film Festival. Read on to find out what brought her to good ol’ GF, what drew her to get involved in theatre, and her local go-to spots for everything from coffee to trivia night.

 

 

Tell us about yourself!

Hey Glens Falls! I’m Tabitha Burton, but most of you know me by Tab. I’m the Company Manager for the Adirondack Film Festival which runs October 17-20th in downtown Glens Falls. 

We’d love to hear more about your background - how did you become involved in theatre?

I got a Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management (Undergrad) and a Masters of Art in Art Administration (Grad School). I first got involved in theatre when I was in grad school. I had an amazing teacher who would take us to shows and emphasized the importance of live theatre - the story it tells and how everyone can relate to either the story or the characters. I stuck with it after graduation.

I started working at the Shawnee Theatre the day after I graduated high school and worked there for 8 years each summer learning how to do the many different jobs it takes to put on a show. It was Mrs. Jerrells who introduced me to music and theatre and why I fell in love with it. She was an amazing teacher, friend and role model. She retired and now her and her husband work at Disney in Florida.

On Life in Glens Falls

I grew up in a small town similar to Glens Falls in Bloomfield, Indiana. I started working for the Bloomington Playwrights Project Theatre shortly after undergrad where Chad Rabinovitz is the artistic director. I first came to Glens Falls four years ago for the Adirondack Film Festival and fell in love with the community. From there, Chad (who is also the artistic director of the Adirondack Theatre Festival) brought me on as the Company Manager and I kept coming back every October for the Film Festival and every May for the Theatre Festival for the past three years. I fell in love with the downtown area and looked forward to seeing the same familiar faces each year.

Once I graduated from grad school at Indiana University (Go Hoosier!) in December 2017, I decided I wanted to move out of Indiana and move to Glens Falls - I mean, I already knew people and had a community here. Now, I live right downtown at Bemis Place Apartments on Sherman Ave with my sweet cat Calvin that I adopted at the local Glens Falls Animal Shelter and couldn’t be happier.

My favorite thing about Glens Falls is the different art events the community has - from the LARAC Festival, Adirondack Theatre and Film Festivals to the Black Fly event at the Hyde, there is so much going on. I also love the small town feel, it’s a nice feeling to go into a restaurant or bar and people know your name (shout out to Fenimores at the Q!).  

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

Some of my favorite spots to frequent downtown are definitely Spot Coffee for that Java Shake, the patio at The Q for their firepits, Rauls for the best margs in town, or trivia night at Mean Max. There is something for everyone downtown. 

On the Future

If you asked me where I would be living 4 yrs ago, Glens Falls wouldn’t have even been on the radar. I wouldn’t even have known about Glens Falls if it wasn’t for Chad. Indiana will always hold a special place in my heart, but for now Glens Falls has won me over and my heart.

By the way…

The fourth annual Adirondack Film Festival is Oct 17-20th. If you find yourself downtown, buy a pass and come check out our amazing line up. We have over 200 filmmakers coming to town, so it’s going to be a busy but exciting weekend.

 

 

Thanks Tab - see you at the Film Festival!

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

First Look: Alchemy Bagel Cafe

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

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

 

 

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

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

 

 

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

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

 

 

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

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

 

 

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

 

Owners Meg and Alex at Alchemy Bagel Cafe

 

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

The Weekender: October 11-13

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

 

 

 

 

Have a great weekend!
Bri + Tom

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

Back in the Day: Talkies at The Strand

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Photo courtesy of The Strand Theatre

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo courtesy of The Strand Theatre

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

________

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

 

 

 

 

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

My Glens Falls: Michael DuBray

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

 

 

Tell us about yourself!

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

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

On Life in Glens Falls

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

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

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

A Glens Falls Favorite

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

On the Past

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

On the Future

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

 

 

Thanks, Michael!

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

The Weekender: October 4-6

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

 

 

Hope you have a great weekend!
Bri + Tom

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

Dinner for the Win

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

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

The Weekender: September 27-29

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

 

 

 

Have a great weekend!
Bri + Tom

 

My Glens Falls: Carol Ann Conover

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

 

 

Tell us about yourself!

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

On Life in Glens Falls

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

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

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

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

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

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

Some Glens Falls Favorites

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

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

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

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

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

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

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

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

On the Past

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

On the Future

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

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

 

 

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

Sweet Ride: '55 Chevy

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

 

 

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

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

 

 

THE SPECS

Year, make and model?  

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

Size engine? 

Straight 6, 235 cubic inches.

Automatic or stick? 

3 on the tree, manual transmission.

Gas mileage?

Not a clue! Google says 15-20 mpg?

How many years have you had it? 

30 years! Purchased in spring 1989.

Do you drive it year round? 

No, we store it from November to May.

 

 

THE HISTORY

How did you you come to own it? 

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

Do you know much about its history or previous owners?

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

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

 

 

THE REPAIRS

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

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

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

What's next for the '55? 

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

 

 

THE RIDE

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

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

 

 

THE ADVICE

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

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

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

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

 

 

 

 

Thanks Carl and Judy - enjoy the ride!

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

The Weekender: September 20-22

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

 

 

 

Have a great weekend!
Bri + Tom

 

Back in the Day: Ballooning in Glens Falls

 

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A startled farmer was the only witness to his descent.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Closing launch is Sunday evening at Crandall Park.

Grab all the details here.

 

 

 

 

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

My Glens Falls: Rodney Allen Bentley

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

 

 

Tell us about yourself!

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

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

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

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

ON LIFE IN GLENS FALLS

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

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

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

On the Past

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

On the Future

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

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

By the way…

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

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

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

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

Road Trip: Small-Town Bookstores

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

 

 

Owl Pen Books | GREENWICH

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

 

 

Battenkill Books | Cambridge

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

 

 

Wilson Homestead | HEBRON

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

 

Old Book Surfer | CAMBRIDGE

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

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

 

 

Happy travels, happy shopping, happy reading!

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