ACE PLACES

ACE Craft Beverage Spotlight: Left Bank Ciders, Catskill

May 31, 2021 By Maureen Sager

Co-Founders Tim Graham and Anna Rosencranz, with Left Bank Ciders mascot, Abraham

Left Bank Ciders opened its doors on July 10th, 2021, which wasn’t an obvious time to start a brand new tap room business. But partners Tim Graham, his wife Anna Rosencranz, and their friend Dave Snyder, had an opportunity they couldn’t pass up. “The space was so good,” Graham said. “We just had to give it a go.”

Congressman Antonio Delgado talks cider with co-founder Dave Snyder

The 3000 square foot basement space at 150 Water Street in Catskill was rustic and unfinished, “like a subterranean wine cave,” said Graham, who had been home brewing for several years before making the leap to a full-scale operation. “The temperatures are super stable, which is great for making cider. There probably weren’t a lot of other businesses that would love being in a basement, but for us, it’s perfect.”

They poured concrete floors and made the furniture themselves — a perfect complement to the rustic, lime washed brick and beams. There’s also a spacious outdoor patio that overlooks the Catskill Creek, with a great view of the Hudson Valley sunsets.

The cider is made on site from wild apples they forage themselves, along with stock from “friends and acquaintances who give us everything they can’t use,” said Rosencranz. “Everything else, we buy in from local suppliers.” There are usually 8 or more varieties on tap; read their origin stories here. My personal favorite: the Spyser — a co-ferment made with apples and honey. It’s smooth, dry, and just a bit tart. My perfect Sunday night go-to!

You’ll notice that there’s a fourth founder crawling and playing at Left Bank. Tim and Anna had a baby, Abraham, in May 2020, just two months before they opened mid-pandemic. So, with Abe snuggled in a Baby Bjorn, they were fearlessly tending the bar and making cider with an amazingly cheerful newborn on board.

Where to Find Left Bank Ciders

Drop by the tap room to relax by the creek! It might be a bit tricky to find Left Bank Ciders on your first try, so: If you’re on Main Street, you can find Left Bank Ciders by walking down the alley next to New Century Chinese Food (Left Bank posts a blackboard sign on Main Street to guide you down the alley, on the days that they’re open). Or, if you’re on River Street, use Google Maps or Ways, and park in the lot on the right side of Left Bank’s patio.

Once you’re there, you’ll find local beers on tap and by the can, and a nice wine selection, in addition to the killer cider. Looking for dinner, too? Grab some takeout from nearby Avalon Lounge (they’ll deliver!) or Mermaid Cafe and dine on the Left Bank Cider porch. It’s one of my very favorite ways to enjoy Catskill.

Left Bank Ciders has also begun distributing their products locally, in Hudson, Catskill, Millerton, Coxsackie and Saugerties, and they’ve got a grab-and-go section at the tap room.

Left Bank Ciders is located at 150 Water Street, Catskill, NY 12414. You can find their hours on Instagram @leftbankciders and on their website.

5 Off the Beaten Path Food Spots: Glens Falls Insider

March 23, 2021 By Nate Hallmark

How to pick just 5 off the beaten path spots in Glens Falls? There are so many places you might not stumble across so easily. Here’s my insider’s guide, written not just for the pass-through tourist, but the wandering foodie who appreciates the hidden gems Glens Falls has to offer.

Vibrant, Sustainable, Growing

The city of Glens Falls has restaurants, social bars and coffee shops for just about any occasion. The downtown hub hosts over twenty places within a walking block, where you can order out, dine in or simply enjoy the small city feel.

Small businesses like these support the community of Glens Falls, and bring us together like a pot luck family gathering. Each creates wonderfully delicious foods, enriching the tastes and culture that keep Glens Falls vibrant, sustainable and growing. Bon appetite!

A Little Background on Glens Falls

When I moved to Glens Falls in 2001, I saw the beginning of the revitalization process that’s made the city what it is today. Beginning with the reconstruction of the tech-forward Crandall Library, the downtown rapidly revitalized itself. Shops and restaurants returned. They brought new flavors that filled the city with a fabulous variety of tastes and art not seen before. So here are my 5 off the beaten path spots not to miss in Glens Falls.

Glens Falls is officially all of 3.4 square miles. At its center is Finch & Pruyn, one of the oldest running paper mills in the country. This mill made Glens Falls a town where generations of blue collar union workers could be employed straight out of high school. Where locals could raise their families on comfortable, middle class incomes. The burst of the tech bubble in the 1990s hit hard, leaving Glens Falls’s future as bleak as an overcast day.

Handcrafted Juice and Good Vibes To Start The Day

Owners Christina Hanchett and Nicoe Laubenheimer from Jucin' Jar

Off of Glen Street — the main section of US Route 9 that runs through the heart of town — there’s a little alleyway you could blink and miss, called Exchange Street. Just around that corner you will find the Juicin’ Jar. Owned by Cristina Hanchett and managed with her sister Nicole Laubenheimer, the business opened in 2015, when they were in their in their early 20s. Since then, they’ve expanded their offerings to include a full menu of freshly prepared foods and sandwiches. Everything complements both their rejuvenating beverages and their warm welcoming energy that feels like morning sunshine. Cristina said they always envisioned a place where they could replenish the community with good food and a positive spirit.

Cristina recommends trying The Juice Monkey – a wholesome blend of banana, milk, Nutella & peanut butter, and any of their freshly pressed juices. Team it with The South of the Border Wrap, a roll up of romaine, hummus, black bean, corn, tomato, onion, jalapeño, sharp cheddar, avocado, hot sauce and creamy avocado dressing. I recommend one of the warm rice bowls like the Sweet Potato Bowl, a combo of brown rice, sweet potato, apples, walnuts, onion, cranberries, creamy avocado dressing and feta cheese. All items are made fresh and ordered a la carte. You simply won’t find a healthier better way to energize your day in town.

Nationally Acclaimed Breads And a Community Hero

Among the 5 off the beaten path spots this one is just outside the downtown area. The Shirt Factory is home to over 100 creative tenants, including artists, studios, galleries and makers. It’s here you’ll also find the amazing Rock Hill Bakehouse and Café, creators of handmade breads made from wholesome organic ingredients, most of which are sourced locally. Owned by Matt Funiciello since 1991, they’ve racked up outstanding reviews. The New York Times said, “Rock Hill makes the best Jewish Rye east of the Mississippi.” New York Magazine said, “No other sourdough in the city has the same rich layering of flavors under a crackly crust.” And even Vogue weighed in, “(Rock Hill Bakehouse) is the paragon of purism”.

The café offers an extensive vegan-friendly menu, and many items can be veganized to order. Try the Healthy AF – roasted red peppers, tomatoes, olives, onions, and pesto with balsamic on wholesome Farm bread — or the vegan Bison Buffalo chicken pizza. Finish them off with freshly made chocolate chip cookies. Moreover, the business has been helping the community during the pandemic, with a “no questions asked Community Bread Rack.” “Since we have been relatively unscathed, we really wanted to help our neighbors who have lost their jobs, their homes and often their ability to put food on their tables.” The café continues to provide curbside delivery and the bread rack stands at the doorway open to all. Donations are accepted at the entrance.

Real Deal, Homemade Mexican Food

Continuing down to Warren Street, you will find a little Mexican shop, Tacos El Sombrero. Mrs. Anel Colio started this restaurant with handmade tortillas created the way her family made them in Mexico, with a bit of a southern California style twist. All of the food is prepared from scratch, with fresh ingredients she sources from the area. The tamales make every bite make you feel like you found something special. She recommends the fried plantains and the crème filled churros — I can’t argue with that!

Anel came to America with her familia when she was eight years old. She got married, had four boys and decided to start a business as a second income to support her family. Since her opening in 2017, Anel has reclaimed Taco Tuesdays with $1 deals that make an affordably delicious way of life. Her menu also includes enchiladas, burritos and other traditional specials that make all your Mexican tastes feel like they’ve found a new standard for Hispanic food.

Wood-Fired Pizza and Community Pride

Behind the shops on Glen Street, you’ll find the Downtown City Tavern. Owned by Craig Merrill and managed by Journey Kerchner-Pirrone, DT City Tavern has firmly established a hometown “Cheers”- like setting. The wood fired oven creates a cozy tone, and turns out amazing pizzas. Local craft beers on tap that are switched out regularly with care. When I pushed him for a favorite, Craig recommended the alcohol infused milkshakes, as a house specialty dessert.

The pandemic has brought welcome adjustments to the DT City Tavern, including efficient online ordering. They also have outdoor seating for when the weather is favorable. Craig’s mission for the Tavern — and its sister location, the Downtown Social — is to provide excellent dining and service, while keeping his staff fully employed. You’ll feel Glens Falls pride in both locations, and will leave quite satisfied in both appetite and hospitality.

A Trip to Thailand, No Airplane Needed

Up a few blocks on Ridge Street from the circle, sits a can’t miss Thai and sushi restaurant. Being a foodie myself, I like my experiences to be authentic and exotic. At Aroy Dee, you get a full serving of both. Owner Nhong Rujirat Currie first came to America on a visit in 2008. Shortly afterwards she met her husband and over the next few years she worked three jobs. Finally, in 2012, she’d saved enough to bring her family over from Thailand, to start her restaurant.

The food is everything you would expect if you were 12,000 miles away, in Thailand, with service just like you were family. The traditional Pad Thai rice noodle dish is a starter staple. Nhong said the most popular items have become their special house recipe Crab Rangoon, a crispy fried wonton stuffed with cream cheese, crab and onion served with sweet and sour sauce. My favorite is Drunken Noodle – a choice of meat stir fried with flat noodles, bell peppers, onion, tomato, egg and basil leaves in a brown Thai sauce. There’s even a new creation they call Sushi Pizza.

The Heart of Community

Nhong really appreciates the welcome reception the community has given her and her family business. In return she has given back with gratitude, providing free gift cards to the local schools and families to benefit during the ongoing pandemic. She opens her kitchen to internships from the area to continue sharing the traditions and methods of her culture with others that want to learn.

Small businesses like these support the community of Glens Falls bringing it together like a pot luck family gathering. Each of these 5 off the beaten path spots in Glens Falls brings their own wonderfully delicious foods, enriching the tastes and culture to the table while equally supporting those that keep Glens Falls vibrantly sustainably growing. Bon appetite!

Written by: Nate Hallmark

10 Can’t Miss Walking Trails in Rensselaer County

March 23, 2021 By Maureen Sager

Just across the Hudson River from bustling Albany, Rensselaer County is a dream for hikers, cyclists, artists, nature-lovers, and locavores. Ten wonderful walking trails in Rensselaer County await you, just minutes away from the cities!

Driving east from Albany or Troy, you’ll soon start to notice the hills, and eventually your ears might pop. That’s due to the Rensselaer Plateau, a higher-elevation forested region with features that you might expect only in the Adirondacks. Spruce-fir forests, bogs and lakes, rare plants and animals, and sparkling streams soothe the senses.

Fall in Love with Rensselaer County

Looking for walking trails in Rensselaer county? Fortunately, community-led groups like the Rensselaer Plateau Alliance and Rensselaer Land Trust have conserved many special places in the county and built trails for all to enjoy.

And it’s not only the forests that will make you fall in love with Rensselaer County. Small towns, family farms, art centers, and good food will pull you in, too. Whether you’re a bird nerd, a weekend hiker, or a creative person looking for space to think and feel, come on out and explore.

I asked the volunteers, young parents, and activists—those who know our local trails best—for their favorite walking trails in Rensselaer County.

Seasonal tips: Winter: dress in layers and avoid cotton; wear boots with good tread and consider microspikes, yaktrax, or ski poles. Spring, summer, fall: protect yourself from ticks. Fall/hunting season: wear orange and stay on the trail.

*Follow the hyperlinks for each preserve for trail maps.

If you’re looking to take a road trip through Rensselaer County, click here!

Falls Trail

Barberville Falls Preserve, Rensselaer Plateau Alliance (RPA)

Rensselaer County’s iconic waterfall, Best meditation spot

Few spots in Rensselaer County are as breathtaking as the 92-foot waterfall at Barberville Falls Preserve. As the centerpiece of a 140-acre pristine forest preserve, the Poesten Kill creek drops 92 feet into a gorge and tumbles down a striking rock face. At the base of the waterfall is a large pool that feeds back into the creek. In winter, you can marvel at the ice and how it sparkles in the sun. In the summer, find your perfect spot for meditation, painting, photography, or just basking on one of the large boulders along the creek.

To reach the waterfall, take the short but steep Falls Trail from the parking area on Blue Factory Rd. If you visit in winter, be sure to have sturdy footwear with good traction (microspikes or ski poles are a plus!) as you climb down a staircase made of wood from the surrounding forest and follow the winding trail down to the falls.

Tips: For a memorable Rensselaer Plateau experience, combine Barberville Falls with RPA’s Poestenkill Community Forest, just about four miles up the road.

Hungry after your hike? Visit downtown Averill Park and stop at Young’s Pharmacy and General Store for homemade soup or sandwiches from Paula’s Country Kitchen and go home with a 4-pack of Nine Pin Cider. For a hearty dinner, Towne Tavern has a lively vibe and a full menu of burgers, pizza, pasta, and delicious vegetarian options, plus 20 beers on draft.

Valley View and Vulture’s View Trail loop

Grafton Forest, Rensselaer Plateau Alliance (RPA)

Ecological gem, Sunset views, Photographer’s choice

Sophie, a young climate activist, recommends hiking up to the rocky overlooks on Valley View Trail and Vulture’s View Trail at Grafton Forest just before sunset. The views to the west are stunning, with the Tomhannock Reservoir—a.k.a. Troy’s drinking water source— in the foreground and the Adirondack and Green Mountains beyond. From Vulture’s View, you can loop back on Whoop-de do Trail, or hike to a third overlook on Rynard’s Roost Trail. “I love the diversity of wildlife and plants at Grafton Forest,” Sophie says. Lichens, rare mosses and plants, and animals like bobcat and moose, make this place extra special and sensitive. Stay on trail as you soak in the beauty of this ecological gem. Photographers, bring your camera.

Getting there is the challenge but just requires an awareness of conditions. The town road leading to the parking area is not graded and is not plowed in winter. When there’s snow, 4-wheel drive with good clearance is required. In warmer months, drive slowly to avoid potholes.

Tips: Before or after your hike, pick up some local food while supporting a family farm at the Laughing Earth Farm self-serve farm store. Annie and Zack Metzger keep it stocked with meats, eggs, milk, some veggies, honey, maple syrup, and a few crafty items like local handmade soap. Open seven days a week, daylight hours.

Dickinson Hill Fire Tower Trail

Grafton Lakes State Park, park at end of Long Pond Road

360° view, Most impressive views

“Fire Tower Trail is one of my favorites and great for families,” says Dick Gibbs, mountain biker and forest conservationist. “We’ve taken our grandkids on this trail since they were toddlers and they still love it.” Dick was a force behind restoring the fire tower over a decade ago. Thanks to him, you can now climb the tower to get a 360° view of the Rensselaer Plateau and Taconic Mountains, and the Adirondacks to the north and west.

Getting there: Don’t enter the main Park entrance. Instead, take North Long Pond Road from route 2. Drive to the end of Long Pond Road to the parking area. After parking, backtrack on foot down Long Pond Road to the historic Fire Tower Road on your left. Hike up Fire Tower Road for a little over a mile (steep and rough, but worth it!) to the service road gate on your right. If you choose to climb the 60-ft fire tower, you’ll be rewarded with one of the best views in Rensselaer County.

Tips: Combine your trip with a visit to the Grafton Peace Pagoda—one of seven in the world! It’s a Japanese Buddhist temple built on Mohican sacred land. The grounds are open from sunrise to sunset, every day, year-round. (note: Due to Covid, the temple and bathrooms are closed.)

Extra info to use if interesting: Along the way up Fire Tower Road, look for info kiosks that honor Grafton native Helen Ellett, who, in the 1940’s, was one of the 1^st female fire tower observers in New York.

Bloomingdale Brook Waterfall Loop Trail

Rensselaer Tech Park, Closest to Albany and Troy

Waterfalls, easy loop, public transportation

If water is your happy place and time is of the essence, try this short and lovely loop hike that’s close to Troy and Albany. You’ll see a beautiful waterfall and cross two bridges over the brook. “It’s a great short hike for kids or people just starting to discover the wonders and peace of the outdoors,” says Tanja, an RPA volunteer who hikes with her daughters, husband, and three dogs. “In the summer, it’s quiet and the waterfall trickle is calming. In winter, with the leaves down, the traffic of 90 and 787 and the train are present, but I still enjoy a quick dog walk on the loop.” Budding botanists, be sure to visit in early spring when you can see ephemeral wildflowers such as blood root, trout lily, and mayapple, in bloom.

To get there, drive into the Tech Park as far as the WMHT building, then left to the trailhead parking. Or, take CDTA bus #224—it stops right outside the Tech Park.

Tips: After your hike, stop at Alexis Diner not far north on Rt 4 for Souvlaki and Greek Salad, or order a delectable Mediterranean takeout dinner fromGarlic Lover’s Corner.

Dorothy’s Equal Access Trail

Poestenkill Community Forest

Most accessible, Mixed use, ADA-compliant accessible trail

“We love hiking at the Rensselaer Plateau Alliance’s Poestenkill Community Forest, and especially appreciate this new mixed-use trail,” August, a new dad, says. “With our young family – we had twins in March 2020 – getting outside is more important to us ever. We strap the kids on our backs when we can all hike together. When it’s just one of us we can put them in the stroller and walk Dorothy’s Trail. We can take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest and still be close to the car—and the nice big restroom for changing a diaper!” As a millennial who is working from home during the pandemic, August is more grateful than ever for the peace and tranquility that’s just a short ride away.

If you’re up for a longer excursion, Poestenkill Community Forest is a treasure trove of hiking trails and ecological wonders. Big Beaver Bog Trail is a must if you like bogs … and carnivorous plants. Pitcher plants, anyone? And mountain bikers, you can test out the MTB trails and skills course!

Tips:After Poestenkill Community Forest, grab a sandwich at Duncan’s Farm to Market Country Store. Or, have a beer at Beer Diviner Brewery & Taproom in Cherry Plain.

Homestead Trail

Albert Family Community Forest

Most Family Friendly, Old stone walls and foundations, Nature Play Area, a hempcrete eco-cabin

Peter, a volunteer trail worker and outdoorsman, highly recommends the Homestead Trail at the Albert Family Community Forest. “This route will take you through beautiful hemlock forests and 200-year-old stone walls, by an abandoned homestead with a crumbled foundation and hand-dug well, along a cascading brook, and skirting a large wetland.” A bonus is the new footbridge over the brook, recently built by an Eagle Scout. If you finish Homestead Trail and are looking for more, take Susan’s Ramble or the Cascades Trail loop (with a series of small waterfalls).

While you’re at the Community Forest, check out the cabin (soon-to-be Nature Classroom) just beyond the parking area. It was restored by two Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute students (Cam Kasper and Sam Berrigan) in 2020, using hempcrete, a regenerative natural building material. Behind the cabin, you’ll find a Nature Play Area where kids can swing, practice their balance, and explore primitive shelters.

Tips: Once you’re done playing, drive south to Blueberry Hill Market Café in New Lebanon for a tasty breakfast or lunch, and tea or coffee from their barista menu. Their turmeric chai latte will warm your belly after a winter hike!

Ridge Top Trail

Kinderhook Creek Preserve, Rensselaer Land Trust

Most playful “workout hike,” swinging benches, pull ropes, and water

For Molly, a social worker and nature meditation guide living in rural Rensselaer County, Ridge Top Trail at Kinderhook Creek Preserve is the perfect place to let off steam. “It’s steep enough to get the heart pumping and is also really beautiful with interesting rock formations,” she says. The higher you climb, the better the view, especially when the leaves are off the trees in winter. Then hang on tight to the guide rope and take the Up & Down Trail (also steep) down to the creek. Walk back along the creek on SAY Trail, or, in summer stay a while and dip your toes in the cool water. There are swinging benches and picnic tables at various spots all along the way. There are also vernal pools, and “in spring, you can hear the spring peeper tree frogs singing their hearts out,” Molly says.

After your workout hike, sample some beer made with sustainable and local ingredients atS & S Farm Brewery. As you sip and relax, relish the beauty of this 6^th generation family farm.

The Long Trail

Dyken Pond Environmental Education Center

Best example of Rensselaer Plateau ecology, Lush moss & boardwalks

Amanda, an environmental educator with a green thumb, loves the trails at Dyken Pond for the lush moss and rich plant life. Try the Long Trail, which winds its way for about four miles through the forests and wetlands of the DPEEC. Head up the hill across the field at the main parking area for the northern section, which will take you through hardwood forest, a fern meadow, a small fen, and past an incredible glacial erratic (a boulder deposited by glaciers long ago) nicknamed “Grandfather.”

The southern section of the Long Trail passes through a series of spectacular wetlands as you cross a 300-foot boardwalk. The Long Trail is also open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in a back-country setting. Check the website at www.dykenpond.org for current trail and road conditions. Hungry after your hike? Stop by Grafton’s Town Store (2436 NY-2, Cropseyville, 12052) for a tasty grilled cheese and tomato sandwich. Or, combine your Dyken Pond adventure with a walk or mountain bike ride at Grafton Lakes State Park.

Petersburg Pass to the Snow Hole

Part of the Taconic Crest Trail

More strenuous, great views

For a longer hike, sample a stretch of the 37-mile Taconic Crest Trail, which passes through New York, Massachusetts, and Vermont, following the Taconic Range. Marked by white diamonds on a blue square and maintained by the Taconic Hiking Club, the trails that lead off both north and south are easy to follow.

From the parking lot at Petersburg Pass, head across Rt. 2 and up a steep but short ascent, entering Hopkins Forest. Stop at a hang glider overlook just ¼ mile up on the west side for a spectacular view and then continue 2.5+ miles to a sign for a short detour off the trail to the east. There you’ll find a deep crevasse, called “The Snow Hole,” where year-round cold holds onto snow even into the summer. This section of the Taconic Range is marked by mature forest, frequent views, rocky outcrops and ledges, and several side trails.

Post-hike, enjoy the best and only Mexican food in Stephentown atNorte Azul Cantina. “Great food, good for vegetarians, tasty fish tacos, and don’t forget the spicy Margarita,” says Fran, a local leader in conservation and trails.

2^nd “tips” option if you include Waterfall Trail (see below):If you have energy leftover, head east on Rt. 2 and into Williamstown for The Clark art museum and a fine selection of town restaurants and shops.

Waterfall Trail

Cherry Plain State Park

Most idyllic

Fran Egbert, a local leader in conservation and trail building, has a soft spot for the Waterfall Trail in Cherry Plain because it’s beautiful and interesting in all seasons. In winter, the ice formations glisten, and in summer you can hop across the Black River to cool off. “After a hike I love sitting at the end of the lake, with minimal company other than in July or August. Without cell service, I’m forced to be present and observe all the sounds and smells around me. She also likes the Mill Pond Trail, which brings you to an old dam and Mill Pond and house site. Cherry Plain has several challenging loops for hiking, snowshoeing, biking, so check out the park map for more ideas. The park is surrounded by the Capital District Wildlife Management Area, with more than 4,000 acres of forest and wildlife habitat.

IF YOU USE THIS TRAIL, use 2^nd option for Taconic Crest meal tips.

Fran suggests you follow up with a stop at Norte Azul Cantina, the best and only Mexican Restaurant in Stephentown. “Great food, good for vegetarians, tasty fish tacos, and don’t forget the spicy Margarita,” she says.

Photo credits: Nate Simms, Kate Lovering Photography, Fred McCagg Photography

Written by: Annie Jacobs

Annie Jacobs is a naturalist and adventurer, poet, and artist living in Troy. As Communications Director for the Rensselaer Plateau Alliance, she loves telling stories about the inspiring people who are safeguarding our wild places for future generations.

5 Black-Owned Health & Wellness Businesses in CapNY

February 24, 2021 By Arielle Steele

Jamel Mosely and Rachelle Pean of Root3d, photo courtesy Collaborative Magazine

Now more than ever, the adage “health is wealth” rings true. As the world gets smaller in the face of COVID-19, taking care of oneself can seem like a daunting task, especially for those in Black and brown communities. Black and brown folks are more likely to be on the frontline in service positions that do not provide effective protections against the virus. We also historically have had less access to adequate health care. Knowing the threat COVID-19 poses it makes it difficult to even feel safe with one another.

With that being said, I believe that no one can take care of you like your own. As a Black woman in Upstate NY, I know that finding community can be a challenge. However, there are leaders here who are taking a holistic approach to wellness. By finding healing in one another, we find a sense of home, and we also ensure that Black business endures in the Capital Region. So if you’ve got your tribe and are looking for something new, or are searching for a wellness space, here is a brief list of Black-owned businesses dedicated to uplifting and serving Black and brown communities in the 518.

Root3d

Co-founded by Rachelle Pean and Jamel Mosely in 2019, Root3d is a local wellness center that uses a mixture of therapy, energy work, and movement based classes to address health in the Cap Region.

Root3d originally started out as a yoga class run by Pean at the African-American Cultural Center, but when she noticed that she garnered a sizable following she decided to answer the call for more.

“I noticed that when we had the yoga classes, people would stick around after and start talking about things like body image or how breathing is helping them manage depression. Having a space where it’s all about connecting with your body and your breath automatically opened up a space to talk about emotional health. It just made sense and goes together with healing. It’s the three dimensions of healing, which the Root3d stands for: mind, body, and spirit.”

Their Mission

Root3d aims to create a safe space where participants can feel free to be their whole selves, “We have a space where we feel like we’re seen, we’re heard, and we’re safe and then we can show up with [our unique individual] needs. And that can shape the space.” Root3d makes room for the multitudes that human beings contain, especially people of color.

How They Serve the Black Community

“The fact that most of our teachers/healers are Black and brown– there’s something that happens when there’s someone that looks like you. You see yourself represented in a space, whether it’s the teacher or other people in the class, something in you goes, ‘Oh this is for me too.'” Their offerings also aren’t one size fits all because of the range and wealth of knowledge of the instructors. Per Rachelle Pean, the teachers just offer their experiences and what they know, which is not one size fits all healing.

Why They’re Passionate

Founder Rachelle sees the connections between the present and the past in how Black and brown people are approaching wellness. “I know our origins, I know how we heal ourselves. I know how much we heal in the community. We’re not just about the individual. It makes me so passionate to see us coming back to that and to see that the Root3d is one of many.” Relying on the whole in order to restore the self is the driving force behind Root3d.

Where to Find Them

Root3d is located at 165 South Pearl St, Albany, NY 12202. However if you would like to take classes virtually instead of in-person classes, you can catch them on their Instagram live streams or register for their Zoom classes.

Red Door Beauty and Wellness Garden

Wellness does not have a particular look, in fact it can have many! Established by hairstylist Erin Hundley, Red Door Beauty and Wellness Garden is equal parts beauty salon as it is wellness center as it focuses on non-traditional healing methods. Hundley also has a consignment shop within the salon which features independent products from Black women.

Her Mission

Erin states, “My focus is the integration of inner and outer beauty through hair, mind, and spirit.” Her special blend of hair services, life coaching, and offerings of the wellness sanctuary for relaxation supports this ethos. She wishes to establish a place of peace for BIPOC, especially Black women as we experience an intersection of violence in our lives. “We choose battles in our lives and I choose not to fight my hair. As Black women we have always had to to fight. I get so tired of fighting. That’s the groundwork of my business, healing that.”

How She Serves the Black Community

Outside of aiding BIPOC with styling and transitioning to natural hair, Hundley offers mentorship as she wants to offer what she didn’t have coming into her own as a Black woman. She showcases independent Black creatives in her consignment shop that features hair care products alongside crystals, incense, and tonics. Her consignment shop has lowered rates as she wants to help indie creators get their foot into the door.

Why She’s Passionate About Her Work

While Hundley’s interest in holistic health came much later in life, she’s always had a natural affinity for hair. “My grandmother and mother used to always go to the hairdresser, and I always gravitated towards [this work]. My cousin was like my test dummy, If I would go to the hairdresser with my mom I would watch the hairdressers and would try it out on my cousin. And she would let me!” Growing up in that atmosphere sewed a deep love for hair as Hundley came into her own as a woman.

Where to Find Her

Red Door Beauty & Wellness is still open during COVID and you can book an individual session here . Her shop is located at 510 State St, Schenectady, NY 12305 and support the creatives she features in her consignment shop here.

Healing Whispers

Though we traditionally think of health as it relates to the body, there are nontraditional ways to address spiritual health as well. Josy Smith does just that with her business Healing Whispers, located at 251 Karner Rd, in Colonie, NY.

Josy Smith is a Reiki Master Teacher, spiritual path coach, and an astrologer based in the Capital Region. In her work with Reiki, a Japanese technique that encourages clients to meditate and open themselves up spiritually to clear any negative energy in their bodies, Josy helps her clients heal a vulnerable space.

Her Mission

In her work Josy emphasizes connecting people — namely Black and brown folks — with their ancestors. “Who we are are who we come from. [I want to help] people understand that venerating your ancestors it’s who we are. It’s who we come from. It’s the source of so much power especially for Black people. The ancestors are those Healing Whispers that come to us in our time of need.” To Josy our ancestors are a form of guidance and protection. They create a sense of the divine inside of us.

How She Serves the Black Community

Healing Whispers’ physical location is closed due to Covid, but check back for updates or **book a tele session**

Josy not only services the Black community spiritually she also creates space for burgeoning independent business owners in the capital district. “I offer fully furnished professional rooms to rent for practitioners at very affordable prices. Commercial real estate is ridiculously expensive. For any practitioner who is looking to test the waters of their business, but do it in a way that fits their pockets, I provide that space. This starts from $20/hr and grows to different packages. She also has historically lended her space for local activists.”

In terms of local activism Josy also opens the space and calls in the ancestors for Black Lives Matters rallies, protests and meetings. She ensures that the space becomes sacred and allows for activists to stand on the shoulders of those from the past.

Why She’s Passionate About Her Work

Josy Smith has always had a love for spirituality. She got her start as a Vodoun practitioner with the blessing of a well respected Haitian mambo, or priestess. After she received a divination, her mentor priestess directed her to become initiated in the practice. From there she pursued her spiritual journey and has studied other works such as astrology to help guide others.

Where to Find Her

You can book a tele session with Josy here. You can also find her on Facebook.

Shia O’ Doula Services

For our expectant parents who would like to expand their prenatal care, there are options other than the standard OB/GYN.

Shia O is a doula who works in conjunction with nurses and OBs to help ensure the safety of parent and child before, after, and during delivery. Shia O gained her doula certifications in 2019 via BirthNet and has been active since.

Her Mission

Shia O says a doula “is a person who provides emotional and physical support to a person during pregnancy and childbirth. We are not medical professionals but we assist during labor and delivery. A lot of what I do is postpartum care. I stay on until people are settled and then I check in periodically up to 6 weeks later after the baby is born, or even longer if the parent wants it.”

How She Serves the Black Community

In terms of service toward Black parents, Shia O’s main role has been as an educator. “I like giving people other ideas. As a community we get stuck in our ways: if you get pregnant, you go to a doctor, you do things in a very specific way. And it’s like, no! Actually midwives and doulas are the ways we’ve been doing it since before [Black people] came here. So just having that conversation of education. Everybody doesn’t want the same thing, but it’s an option for you.”

Why She’s Passionate About Her Work

Shia O has a background in non-profit work as a care manager working with underprivileged youth. From the experience of supporting a teenage couple with their pregnancy, Shia O realized that this is another dimension of service she could enter.

“I love children, I love babies all the way up til they’re 21 in my program [at the non-profit]. I have a lot of genuine love to share and that is my passion. My commitment is to work with folks, it doesn’t matter your socioeconomic status, your race, your gender. I’ll meet people where they’re at.”

Where to Find Her

Shia O is based in Troy, NY and serves clients around the area. If you or someone you know would like to utilize her services you contact her at ShiaODoulaServices@gmail.com or find her on Instagram.

Indie Vibez

Looking for an energy shift or a yoga class? Well look no further than Indie Vibez. Founded in 2017 by Bronx born energy worker Sasha Baxter, Indie Vibez is a brand that not only offers Kemetic Yoga classes and Reiki healing sessions, but also offers resources to aid cleansing like crystals, candles, and sage.

Her Mission

Through Kemetic Yoga and Reiki sessions, Indie Vibez wishes to begin healing with energy, “Healing energy rides on the breath. Through breath and slow movement, my goal is to assist with breaking up those kinks– those energetic blockages throughout your physical body so that your energy can flow more freely.”

So what is Kemetic Yoga? Kemetic Yoga is yoga that’s rooted in the belief that yoga has roots in Africa, specifically Kemet. The poses are influenced from hieroglyphics. Though there is not much of a written history, the practice relies on the oral histories and research to carry on the tradition.

How She Serves the Black Community

Sasha believes that Reiki gives Black people a chance to see what healing looks like for the individual first before the community. “As Black people, a lot of what’s been ingrained in us– a lot of it being necessary– starts with the community first. Sometimes that looks like not prioritizing ourselves. With reiki all we ask of you is to lay on the table and be open to it and it just flows. It’s a beautiful transformative process that allows you to start healing with ourselves first. That’s how you make change.” Sasha is among the few health and wellness professionals who genuinely strive for healing her customers and also upholds her wellness branding with integrity.

Why She’s Passionate About Her Work

“Through Reiki I have healed a lot of things and felt love deeper. I’ve experienced the world differently. I’ve learned to dream bigger and I’ve actually seen those dreams come to fruition. The way that Reiki has changed my life is something I think we all deserve.”

Where to Find Her

Sasha currently leads biweekly Reiki Meditation with The Root3d Tuesdays at 6:30, and offers remote individual Reiki cleansing. She hopes in due time that she will be able to open Indie Vibez’s doors in the fall.

While this is just a sample of what the Capital Region has to offer, these bold and dynamic businesses are representative of the community we wish to maintain in the 518. Community that builds the individual so that they may become part of the whole. If holistic health isn’t your speed, we encourage you to take a look at our index of Black Businesses. There you will find a variety of services that believe in the spirit of supporting one another.

Written by: Arielle Steele

Arielle is a local writer who has a passion for community, film, dance, and Beyoncé. When she is not working at Ayco, she can be found working on her next film project or trying out a new hairstyle.

5 Lake George Winter Activities

January 27, 2021 By wordpress

Located in the southeastern Adirondacks, Lake George is a spectacular spot to enjoy numerous winter activities while avoiding the crowds of the summer. Now is the time where the area slows down from its bustling summer pace to and becomes a tranquil haven for those seeking snowy, outdoor adventures. From hiking to snowshoeing to skiing, you’ll never run out of things to do near the “Queen of American Lakes.”

Hiking

With its prime location in the Adirondack Mountains, hiking is a four-season option in the Lake George area. There are a huge range of trails, from towering mountains to gentle nature preserves. Just remember to have proper hiking gear on you such as microspikes or snowshoes whenever you are hiking in winter!

Sleeping Beauty Mountain

One of my favorites is Sleeping Beauty Mountain, located on the eastern side of the lake. This 3.6 mile out and back hike takes you over rolling terrain to a beautiful overlook of Lake George, the Southern Adirondack Mountains and even the Green Mountains in Vermont. You’ll get expansive views to the east, south and west within a fairly short walk at around 1.8 miles. The summit of Sleeping Beauty does have a lot of cliffs, so be careful once you reach the top as it can be icy. However, this hike is suitable for all skill levels, including children.

Shelving Rock Falls

Another of my beloved hiking spots is Shelving Rock Falls, just down the road from Sleeping Beauty. From the parking area on Shelving Rock Road, it’s only about .3 miles to the base of Shelving Rock Falls, a spectacular 50 foot cascade that pours into Lake George. This waterfall is truly a sight in wintertime, as blue and white ice make for stunning contrast to the dark green evergreens that surround the falls. This is another short but sweet hike that has a big payoff for little effort.

Snowshoeing

Lake George Recreation Center

Snowshoeing is one of my favorite winter activities, I love leisurely walking through snow covered woods. Lake George Recreation Center offers great snowshoeing opportunities right outside of town. Its five miles of mixed use trails take you over varied terrain, from rolling hills to steep inclines to flat straightaways. Level of difficulty ranges from beginner to advanced so there’s a trail for everyone! The trails snake along the bubbling Gage Brook, through a beautiful hardwood forest. The best part of this place is how quiet it is. I didn’t see a single person on the trail the whole time I was there! The Rec Center is easily accessible and located off the Northway at exit 21.

Up Yonda Farm

Up Yonda Farm Environmental Education Center is another must visit location for snowshoers. Every month the farm offers one-hour naturalist-guided snowshoe hikes for all ages. The hikes are led on Saturdays during January and February and admission includes rental snowshoes and hot cocoa! I love visiting Up Yonda Farm for the wonderful views of Lake George and the friendly staff that are passionate about the Adirondacks. More information on their guided snowshoe hikes and cost of admission is available on their website.

Cross Country Skiing

Cole’s Woods, Queensbury

If you’re a cross country skier, you must try Cole’s Woods in Queensbury, just south of Lake George. (My boyfriend, Terry, who loves cross country skiing, was adamant that Cole’s Woods made it into this article.) Cole’s Woods is home to the first lighted cross country ski trails in North America. Terry and I recently made the trip north for some night time skiing and snowshoeing. We headed out onto the 5 km race loop and enjoyed a lovely, foggy night in snow that was in perfect condition.

Although the woods are flanked by the Northway and the Aviation Mall, I was surprised at how I still felt like I was in a wilderness area. I loved how well lighted the trails were, and appreciated the lack of crowds. We saw just five people our entire time there! Additionally, if you don’t own your own skis, you can rent them at Inside Edge Ski and Bike, conveniently located right next to Cole’s Woods. I can’t wait to go back for some more nighttime winter fun! Cole’s Woods is free to visit.

Downhill Skiing and Tubing

The Lake George area has multiple opportunities for downhill skiing. Snow is plentiful in the Lake George area with snow fall usually occurring between November and April so there’s plenty of time to ski, snowboard and tube!

Gore Mountain Ski Resort

Just north of Lake George is Gore Mountain Ski Resort, a popular and beloved ski spot in the Adirondacks. Gore attracts skiers from all over the East Coast, with its 107 trails, 15 lifts and 12 Nordic trails for cross country skiing. And, there are tubing trails and other family-friendly ski options, too. Skiing looks a little different at Gore this winter with operational updates due to Covid, but they are still open for business, with tickets available to purchase online in advance of your visit. You can visit their website for more information on their updates and prices.

West Mountain

West Mountain is located in Queensbury, just south of Lake George Village. Home to 31 trails with over 1,000 feet in vertical drop and an all-ages tubing park, the trails at West Mountain are lighted so you can ski well into the night. West Mountain offers deals on different days of the week, so be sure to check their website for discounted rates! For more information on their Covid-19 protocols and lift tickets, visit their website.

Walk the Village

Lake George Village is a lovely place for a stroll. I particularly enjoy the waterfront by Shepard Park, and walking along the sidewalk around the southern end of the lake. When you’re done, warm up at a Lake George staple, Caffe Vero, serving breakfast and lunch. My favorite thing on their menu is the Chai Latte. Or, head to my personal favorite, Lake George Baking Company, for some local baked goods. In my opinion, they make one of the best black and white cookies in Upstate New York!

Written by: Maria Gigliello

Maria Gigliello is an avid hiker, paddler and writer who enjoys spending as much time as possible doing all three things in the Adirondack State Park. She is just as passionate about beer as she is about responsible outdoor recreation and is always in search of a good view and a brew. You can follow her adventures on her blog, The Dirt.